Chapter 12

The Shinōbi World may have descended into chaos, but Hitoshi paid little attention to it. His primary concern was the progress being made in Sunagakure.

And indeed, progress was being made. The perception that "money doesn't grow on trees" was proven false as Sunagakure managed to secure substantial wealth by raiding several waves of Daimyo and nobles from Kaze no Kuni. With these newfound resources, Sunagakure's financial worries were alleviated for the next few years.

With funding, provisions, and a renewed sense of hope, Sunagakure's development was thriving. The Research & Development Department in particular stood as a symbol of this progress, alongside the Kazekage Building and Sunagakure Hospital, forming the trio of landmark buildings.

Currently, Hitoshi strolled through the Research & Development Department with Pakura by his side. Shamon, observing their interactions, wore an amused expression.

"Tsk tsk, little demon, you're already enjoying the perks of being Kazekage not long after assuming the position," Shamon jestingly remarked while glancing at Hitoshi and Pakura.

Shyly, Pakura blushed and replied with a twist, "Shamon-sama, what are you talking about? We're still young."

Hitoshi, feeling slightly exasperated, cast a speechless look at Pakura. She was a young girl with a flat chest, and yet she seemed preoccupied with romantic notions. Shamon's teasing was obvious, and it was surprising that Pakura hadn't caught on.

"Don't pay him any mind, Pakura. You possess great innate talent, and I would hate to see it go to waste," Hitoshi interjected, hoping to steer Pakura's thoughts away from Shamon's mischievous intentions. He feared that Pakura might actually entertain the idea of Shamon proposing marriage.

"Really? Are you insinuating that someone else might have feelings for me?" Shamon looked at Hitoshi meaningfully, hinting at a possibility.

In the world of politics, one's strength is widely known, and Hitoshi's title as the Strongest Kazekage speaks for itself. Under these circumstances, it's hard to believe that no one has developed feelings for Pakura's clan.

While teacher-student relationships and other unconventional romances are not unheard of in the Shinōbi World, Hitoshi was not keen on entertaining such ideas. He urged Shamon to stop causing trouble and suggested discussing those matters at a later time.

When it comes to matters of the heart, Hitoshi found himself at a loss for words. He was uncertain how other transmigrators handled their emotions, how they built harems and navigated the complexities of love. In short, he could appreciate beauty, but he couldn't fully commit to loving someone.

As Hitoshi and Shamon continued their conversation, nodding in agreement countless times along the way, the researchers observing them couldn't help but marvel. Suna Shinōbi Village, a place known for its limited resources and lack of prestigious bloodlines, relied on their unity and love to overcome obstacles.

However, precisely because of the lack of resources in other areas, Suna Shinōbi Village focused on Puppet technology and conducted research on Magnet Release, utilizing the power of the One-Tails.

This showcases the impressive scientific research capabilities of Nìdaime Kazekage Shamon.

The emergence of Puppet Master Jutsu and Magnet Release led to the establishment of a group of researchers within Suna Shinōbi Village. It is this group that is driving the progress of the village.

"Take a look, Hitoshi. These are the Chakra tools developed based on your request," Shamon proudly said, leading them into a room filled with various tools.

"Oh, teacher, don't tease me. These are just ordinary tools, not Chakra tools," Hitoshi remarked, looking puzzled.

He couldn't comprehend the purpose of the assortment of farming tools, axes, hoes, and saws. It seemed like a jumble of random objects that he had no idea how to utilize.

Looking down on Hitoshi, Shamon extended his hand, forming Chakra Threads and pulling out an axe. He pressed a button on the axe, causing a blue light to appear on the blade. Shamon raised his chin in a proud gesture, challenging Hitoshi.

In response, Hitoshi summoned a piece of Sachhi and pointed at it, indicating that he wanted to witness the tool's power.

Without hesitation, Shamon swung the axe.

To their surprise, instead of an expected explosion, the axe blade effortlessly sliced through Sachhi like tofu.

"What the hell is this? What have you been researching?" Hitoshi exclaimed in disbelief.

Hitoshi couldn't help but express his frustration, unable to maintain his composure.

"It's quite simple, actually. These are Chakra tools. One-Tails has a natural affinity for sealing, so after extensive research, we learned how to infuse Chakra into the axe blade and create a startup program. Similarly, we have also studied your Ninjutsu for attachments. It's quite straightforward."

Shamon explained proudly.

He wanted to emphasize that he was Shamon, renowned for his research abilities. While his combat prowess may be lacking, he excelled in the world of Shinōbi due to his research expertise.

"This is truly incredible. Perhaps we can make a fortune during the war," Hitoshi mused, rubbing his chin and giving Shamon a sinister glance.

"Yes, yes. Hōzuki Gengetsu will assist us," Shamon's eyes gleamed with excitement.

As a former Kazekage, Shamon quickly grasped the situation. The two exchanged knowing glances and burst into laughter.

Meanwhile, Pakura looked around anxiously, keeping her head lowered, afraid of the consequences.

Never before had Pakura felt such sadness.

She had listened to the entire conversation, from beginning to end.

Pakura realized that having a deep understanding of history wasn't always a good thing. In moments like these, she understood the true intentions behind the words exchanged by the influential figures.

"Now, who should we send to Uzu no Kuni? Everyone seems to be occupied," Shamon asked after their laughter subsided.

"Ebizo and Bunpuku. One for civil matters and the other for military affairs. They complement each other," Hitoshi suggested.

Hitoshi pondered for a moment before speaking up.

"Can Bunpuku handle it? Uzu no Kuni is situated at sea, and although our shipbuilding technology is advanced, Shukaku's powers are greatly suppressed there."

Shamon hesitated. He had a fondness for Shukaku, especially when it cooperated with their research, greatly enhancing Sunagakure's strength.

"Don't worry, Magnet Release is not that straightforward. Shukaku's Wind attribute is a powerful weapon. Hōzuki Gengetsu may be strong, but he hasn't fully subdued Bunpuku yet, especially considering Shukaku's level of power."

Hitoshi solemnly assured everyone not to underestimate the combination of Shukaku and Bunpuku.

While the foundation of Magnet Release is magnetism, its applications are far from simple.

Hitoshi believed that Shukaku possessed high intelligence among the Tailed Beasts, enabling it to proficiently develop and utilize sealing techniques related to sand. Moreover, it had developed a unique sand body through its own characteristics, allowing it to control magnetism.

This level of strength was truly terrifying.

That's why Hitoshi had been teaching Bunpuku about magnetism and encouraging him to study it further.

After all, he still couldn't gauge the full extent of Shukaku and Bunpuku's capabilities.

"Well, you're the Kazekage, so it's ultimately your decision," Shamon said, gently patting his bald head. He wasn't interested in getting involved in politics or debates.

His main focus was on studying the applications of Chakra, and he felt that he had successfully developed valuable tools that could enhance Sunagakure's foundation in ways that surpassed anything else.