Ch-142 Black market hideout destroyed.

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...

Jiryoku gently took hold of Jokan's hand and reassured her, "Fear not. Within the next five days, I shall address the issue of your incessant targeting. Either the bounty on your head will be lifted, or I will eradicate the black market's influence in the ninja world. Those major countries that have set their sights on you will pay the price for their audacity."

Upon hearing Jiryoku's words, Jokan nodded in unwavering trust and expressed, "I believe in you."

In the next moment, Jiryoku skillfully crafted a shadow clone and instructed it, "I'll be away for a few days. During my absence, your duty is to safeguard Jokan."

The shadow clone, an exact duplicate of the original, acknowledged this directive with a nod. Swiftly organizing measures to ensure Jokan's safety, the clone immediately assumed its protective role as Jiryoku departed on his mission.

----

After soaring through the skies for several hours, Jiryoku arrived at a concealed hideout of the black market. Without a moment's hesitation, he entered the clandestine establishment.

Inside the black market hideout, a group of ninjas, most of them concealing their faces to safeguard their identities from potential attacks spurred by the bounties on their heads, observed Jiryoku's entrance. Their trepidation was palpable, having heard tales of Jiryoku's formidable prowess. Their firsthand witness of the aftermath at the location where Jiryoku had previously clashed with adversaries only heightened their fear, as the wreckage attested to the extraordinary power possessed by this seemingly ordinary 18-year-old.

These bounty hunters promptly sought refuge in the corners, wary of becoming collateral damage in the wake of any of Jiryoku's potential moves. Unfazed by their reactions, Jiryoku proceeded directly to the black market's booth, where the manager presided.

The manager, recognizing Jiryoku, promptly rose from his seat and extended a respectful greeting, "It's been a while, Mister Jiryoku. Your presence is always a significant event. Is there a specific purpose for your visit? Anything you need, just name it, and I'll do my utmost to assist you."

Disregarding the formalities, Jiryoku cut straight to the heart of the matter, "I'm here about relentless attacks on Jokan. In the past three weeks alone, she's faced nearly 20 assassination attempts—almost averaging one per day. While these ninjas pose nothing more than a nuisance in my eyes, the incessant assaults are becoming irritating. I'm here with a proposition for the black market: either you eliminate the bounty on Jokan's head, or I eradicate your existence from this world."

The black market manager hesitated momentarily before responding, "Removing the bounty is impossible; it's a fundamental rule of the black market."

"I care little for your rules. There must be individuals who wield influence over the black market. Relay my message precisely to them. Tomorrow, at this very hour, I will return for an answer," declared Jiryoku resolutely. With that, he promptly took his leave.

Jiryoku refrained from immediately unleashing destruction upon the black market. His wariness stemmed from a suspicion that Jigen might be pulling the strings behind this shadowy enterprise. Jigen's extensive research demands copious resources and funds, making the black market an ideal source. Aware of his own current limitations in confronting Jigen, Jiryoku sought to avoid unnecessary entanglements and trouble.

----

On the promised day, Jiryoku arrived at the black market hideout, standing resolute before the black market manager. With unwavering determination, he inquired, "What decision have the higher-ups of your black market reached regarding Jokan's bounty?"

Drawing a deep breath, the black market manager hesitated before responding, "The bounty on Jokan's head remains intact. However, before you decide on any course of action against the black market, it's imperative for you to comprehend the intricate web of interests at play. Our operations are endorsed by all nations, with various stakeholders involved, including ministers from the Fire Country."

Acknowledging this information, Jiryoku remained composed and commented, "I see. So, you've chosen the second option. No problem. You will receive what you've asked for." With that, he calmly left the black market hideout.

As Jiryoku casually strolled away from the scene, a few vigilant ninjas monitored his every move. Observing his lack of immediate action, they collectively sighed in relief. Yet, their momentary respite swiftly transformed into renewed tension.

Suddenly, an overwhelming force descended upon them. Before the black market ninjas could react, chaos ensued within the hideout. In a matter of seconds, everything and everyone present were systematically crushed, leaving behind a vast circular pit with a depth exceeding ten meters. The surviving ninjas, now witnesses to the sheer might of Jiryoku, stood in horror. His unhurried departure, juxtaposed against the scene of devastation, emphasized the staggering magnitude of his strength.

Having reduced the black market hideout to ruins, Jiryoku gracefully ascended into the air, leaving the site behind. The echoes of his powerful actions reverberated, marking the conclusion of his intervention in the shadowy realm of the black market.

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