Chapter 19

"It's truly remarkable. If Heavenspan doesn't meet his end, we must extend our support to him," Ebizo expressed, observing the Shinōbi of Uzushiogakure as they patrolled in groups. The atmosphere had shifted, bearing a familiar air of tension that Ebizo had experienced in Suna Shinōbi village before.

Bunpuku, with his eyes open, directed his gaze towards a nearby barrier, which he recognized as the Ancestral Hall in Uzushiogakure. Reflecting on the situation, Ebizo posed a question to Bunpuku, inquiring about the time it would take to breach the barrier.

"Within a day, at most, perhaps a violent approach would still be required. As for Uzumaki Masahiko, the one who excels in Sealing Jutsu at the Kage Level, it could take up to two days," Bunpuku contemplated before offering his honest response.

A wry smile formed on Ebizo's face as he finally comprehended the intention behind Hitoshi's decision to send Yasuke as their representative. They were all caught in a plot, and it seemed Uzu no Kuni Daimyo might have been left in the dark.

Ebizo's derisive chuckle conveyed his understanding of Bunpuku's analysis. It dawned on him that Uzumaki Masahiko may no longer be within the barrier but was rather preoccupied with suppressing the older generation of Uzushiogakure and preventing any untoward incidents.

Hitoshi's actions were a clear message to Uzushiogakure, Uzu no Kuni Daimyo, and Uzumaki Masahiko, emphasizing their genuine appreciation and value. They assured them that their promises would not be broken. As a demonstration of their sincerity, they dispatched another Kage Level Shinōbi, one who held direct lineage.

Ebizo couldn't help but admire Hitoshi's far-sightedness, as he often had a broader perspective than himself.

......

Meanwhile, in the Main Affairs Hall of Uzushiogakure, Uzu no Kuni Daimyo was presiding over a meeting, where Uzumaki Homura, who had returned from Konoha, was providing a report on what he had witnessed and heard.

"Daimyo, Elder-sama, Konoha is unwilling to assist us. Lady Mito has more than enough power, but I did not see Lady Kushina. She is likely being restricted," Uzumaki Homura spoke with bitterness, recounting his firsthand experience.

"Hmph, so that's how it is. Sarutobi Hiruzen, that guy?" Uzu no Kuni Daimyo sneered and shifted his gaze towards the Uzumaki Clan Elder. "Well, what do you all have to say about this, Elder-sama?"

The Daimyo's cold words, combined with the information brought by Uzumaki Homura, left them feeling desperate. Having participated in the first Shinōbi World War after the Sengoku Period, they were well aware of the vast disparity between their strength and that of Kirigakure. To put it bluntly, they could only retreat with half their strength intact, which was already considered a decent outcome.

"Daimyo, my boy, let's go ahead with your previous proposal. We have no other options but to forge ahead," the Uzumaki Clan Great Elder, seated beside the Daimyo, replied wearily.

"Very well, Great Elder. Don't worry, Sunagakure may not be the best choice, but it is indeed a good option," Uzu no Kuni Daimyo expressed a hint of satisfaction on his face. Having finally convinced these aging individuals, he couldn't help but feel pleased.

Meanwhile, Yasuke and the Suna Shinōbi had also arrived in Uzu no Kuni with remarkable speed, despite the toll it took on their energy and stamina.

At the Uzu no Kuni port, a Uzumaki Clan child, a woman, and a young individual found themselves being ushered onto a large ship.

"I won't go! I won't go! I want to fight alongside Father!" exclaimed the young Uzumaki Clan child.

"Yes, we won't go! We must stay here!" the woman declared firmly.

"Daimyo-sama, please reconsider. We don't want to leave," pleaded the Uzumaki Clan child and the woman, their cries echoing through the air. They were determined to fight alongside their fellow clansmen.

Uzu no Kuni Daimyo observed the emotional outpouring with a cold gaze, both pleased with their loyalty and saddened by their plight. He knew that their desires would remain unfulfilled, as they were born in the wrong place and time, under the leadership of inept rulers.

"May fortune favor you, Your Excellency Daimyo," Ebizo said calmly, unable to say much at this moment. He knew that he would not be staying to confront Kirigakure, and any further words would be of no use.

"Thank you, Elder Ebizo. I entrust these clansmen to your care," the Daimyo nodded, acknowledging the responsibility that Ebizo would shoulder. He then turned his gaze towards Yasuke, who stood on the ship, a figure reminiscent of the Sea Calming Divine Needle.

"Third-Kazekage, Hitoshi-sama truly values us, sending such an exceptional expert to assist us," Uzu no Kuni Daimyo remarked.

"Yes, Third-Kazekage has always been attentive to selecting capable individuals. We share the same principle, treating each friend with sincerity," Ebizo replied with a smile.

Uzu no Kuni Daimyo shook his head in response to their plea, and then walked towards the other side. He approached two youngsters standing at the front of the ship, Uzumaki Homura and Uzumaki Akisawa, who were filled with determination.

"Akisawa, Yan, from this moment on, you two will lead our clansmen. Whoever becomes the Clan Leader, decide among yourselves," the Daimyo declared solemnly.

"Daimyo-sama, our strength is not to be underestimated. We can stay and fight alongside our people," Uzumaki Homura and Uzumaki Akisawa anxiously expressed their desire.

The Daimyo remained silent in response to their words, but his gaze, sharp and full of determination, conveyed his message. It resonated with the clouds in the sky, stirring a sense of anticipation.

"Very well, it seems Kirigakure is in for a tough time," Yasuke, standing on the boat, quietly remarked while observing Uzu no Kuni Daimyo.

"Death comes easily, but living is a challenge. The burden upon you is heavy. Your mission is to lead the Uzumaki Clan to rise again, to establish a new home in another place," Uzu no Kuni Daimyo addressed the two youngsters, urging them to remain calm amidst their emotions.

"Remember, you are the descendants of the Uzumaki Clan, and you carry the pride of our lineage. This is not an act of running away; rather, it is a time when you must shoulder your responsibility. Your duty is to rebuild a new Uzumaki Clan."

After addressing Uzumaki Homura and Uzumaki Akisawa, Uzu no Kuni Daimyo raised his voice and directed his words towards the crying Uzumaki clansmen. The impact was significant. The once mournful and tearful atmosphere among the clansmen immediately calmed down. With their leader speaking, no one dared to cause any trouble.

"Yasuke, my boy, take note and learn from this. This is what it means to be a leader," Ebizo chimed in, his smile reminiscent of a night owl. "As a leader, you may not have to personally engage in battles with your limited strength, nor deal with administrative matters. However, you must always consider the well-being of the people under your leadership. You must know who has paved the way for you to firmly sit in this position."

"Thank you for your guidance, Elder-sama," Yasuke replied, mustering a faint smile on his tense face.

"In this final battle, it's either victory or death. Send away the families of the shinobi so that they have no worries, and let them understand that the extent of their achievements will determine the living conditions for their descendants," Ebizo abruptly changed the topic.

"It's hard to imagine. In the midst of life and death, in the depths of despair, there exists a preciousness that cannot be predicted. Who knows what beautiful flowers may bloom from the essence of such despair?" Yasuke replied, his voice dry and solemn.

Ebizo fell silent, contemplating Yasuke's words.