Chapter 179

Sarutobi Hiruzen may be happy, but others are not sharing his joy. Both Hidden Villages and Daimyo, except those from Konoha, are displeased. The idea that Uchiha Madara's body was handed over to Konoha has ignited widespread speculation and conspiracy theories. Some even suggest that Sāndaime Kazekage Hitoshi and Sāndaime Hokage Sarutobi Hiruzen are having an affair. As people scrutinize Hitoshi's appearance, the rumors gain traction. However, these baseless claims are nothing more than the sour grapes of those who envy Konoha's acquisition of Madara's powerful eyes.

Kekei Genkai, the ability to inherit and transfer bloodline traits, is a topic that has been extensively studied by various Hidden Villages. As a result, the general sentiment is one of unhappiness and dissatisfaction.

If grudges could kill, Hitoshi would have been stabbed to death by his detractors long ago. People are openly expressing their desires to see him eliminated. They view him as a troublemaker who only knows how to create chaos, such as providing Konoha with life-saving medical ingredients.

To emphasize the significance of the medicine ingredients, Konoha spared no expense. They sent a convoy under Anbu escort, making a grand spectacle out of the event. Along the way, a group of Genin disguised as Jonin accompanied the shipment, creating a festive atmosphere. In the meantime, gossip about Lord Hokage's concerns regarding Hitoshi spread throughout Hi no Kuni.

These rumors paint a picture of a close relationship between Hitoshi and Hiruzen. However, little do they know that the two leaders have a complex history. In the recent Shinōbi World conflict, they clashed repeatedly and mercilessly. Hitoshi's inclusion in the medicine ingredient shipment to Sunagakure was a strategic move on Hiruzen's part, intended to put him at ease.

Tsunade, Jiraiya, and Orochimaru sat together inside the medicine ingredient convoy destined for Sunagakure. While Jiraiya complained about being called back from the border, fearing that the Kumogakure lunatics might strike, Orochimaru reminded him that their current enemy was the Daimyo. Everyone was awaiting an opportunity, and sometimes opportunities needed to be created.

Tsunade, seemingly indifferent to the situation, remarked that Hiruzen probably wanted them to join the army and unleash their full force against the Daimyo if necessary. Tsunade's nonchalant attitude didn't sit well with Orochimaru, who suspected that there was more to Hiruzen's plan than met the eye.

Hiruzen had brought Tsunade, Jiraiya, and Orochimaru back to Konoha after Uchiha Madara's burial. He primarily wanted Tsunade to relax and sought to provide comfort by having Jiraiya and Orochimaru accompany her. The true intentions behind their inclusion were unknown, as Hiruzen feared the pressure would be overwhelming. He couldn't afford to let Tsunade's imagination run wild, potentially leading to her betrayal and alliance with the Daimyo.

Silence filled the carriage as each occupant entertained their own thoughts. Suddenly, Jiraiya broke the silence and asked about Sāndaime Kazekage's condition.

"Is he injured? Is it a serious and potentially fatal injury?" he inquired, his expression turning solemn.

Orochimaru was the first to respond, expressing doubt about the severity of Hitoshi's injuries. He believed that the aging Uchiha Madara might have suffered more, while Hitoshi, in the prime of his life, likely sustained less severe injuries.

Tsunade disagreed with Orochimaru's assessment, suggesting that the younger Hitoshi might have suffered a significant injury during his battle with the older generation. She reminded them that even rank-level individuals had hidden trump cards and techniques that others couldn't fathom.

Jiraiya marveled at the strength of individuals at that level, expressing a deep desire to understand their true power.

"I can't even begin to comprehend their strength," he admitted, his awe evident.

Tsunade nodded in agreement, remarking that even to this day, they couldn't replicate the feats of the older generation. She recalled the incredible power of Senju Hashirama's Wood Release, capable of devastating everything in its path with a single move.

The conversation concluded with a shared acknowledgment of the unfathomable strength possessed by individuals like Senju Hashirama.