Chapter 73: The Distribution of the Tailed Beasts

The hall of the Five Kage Summit had been a place of intense debate and negotiation, but as the meeting concluded, the leaders had reached an agreement that promised to reshape the future of the shinobi world. The tailed beasts, powerful entities of chakra, were to be distributed among the villages in a way that promoted balance and stability.

Hashirama stood before the gathered Kages, a sense of relief and satisfaction evident in his demeanor. "We have come to a consensus," he began, addressing the room. "Sunagakure will receive the One-Tail, Shukaku, as they are the weakest village and could benefit the most from the added strength. Kumogakure will receive both the Two-Tails, Matatabi, and the Eight-Tails, Gyūki, recognizing their capability to manage multiple beasts. Kirigakure will be entrusted with the Three-Tails, Isobu, and the Six-Tails, Saiken. Iwagakure will receive the Four-Tails, Son Gokū, and the Five-Tails, Kokuō."

The Kages nodded in agreement, acknowledging the fairness of the distribution. Each village would gain a significant increase in power, but none would hold an overwhelming advantage. The delicate balance was maintained.

Tobirama stepped forward, holding a series of sealed scrolls. "These scrolls contain the summoning and binding contracts for each tailed beast," he explained. "Once the transactions are complete, you will be able to summon and bind the beasts to your chosen jinchūriki."

Hiroshi added, "We must remember that this agreement is not just about power. It is about fostering trust and cooperation between our villages. The tailed beasts are tools for maintaining peace, not instruments of war."

With the details finalized, the formalities of the transactions began. Representatives from each village stepped forward to present the agreed-upon payments to Konoha. Large chests filled with gold, precious gems, and other valuable resources were exchanged, symbolizing the commitment of each village to uphold the terms of the agreement.

As the transactions were completed, Hashirama, Tobirama, and Hiroshi handed over the scrolls to the respective Kages. Each scroll bore intricate seals and instructions for the safe handling and binding of the tailed beasts. The Kages accepted them with a mix of solemnity and anticipation, fully aware of the responsibilities that came with their new power.

The Raikage, standing tall and imposing, accepted the scrolls for the Two-Tails and the Eight-Tails with a respectful nod. "We will honor this agreement and use these beasts to protect our village and promote peace," he vowed.

The Mizukage, his eyes sharp and calculating, received the scrolls for the Three-Tails and the Six-Tails. "Kirigakure will uphold its end of this deal. We look forward to a future of collaboration and mutual benefit."

The Kazekage, thoughtful and reserved, accepted the scroll for the One-Tail. "Sunagakure is grateful for this opportunity. We will use this power to strengthen our village and support the peace."

The Tsuchikage, with his veteran's gaze, took the scrolls for the Four-Tails and the Five-Tails. "Iwagakure understands the significance of this moment. We will ensure these beasts are used wisely."

With the transactions complete, the Kages and their entourages prepared to depart. The atmosphere was one of cautious optimism, a sense of hope tempered by the weight of the responsibilities they now carried. The summit had not only redistributed power but also laid the groundwork for a new era of cooperation.

As the delegates left the Land of Iron, Hashirama, Tobirama, and Hiroshi stood together, watching them go. "This is a monumental step," Hashirama said, his voice filled with conviction. "But it is just the beginning. We must continue to work towards peace and ensure that these tailed beasts are used to protect, not destroy."

Tobirama nodded. "We have set a precedent. Now we must uphold it and lead by example."

Hiroshi placed a hand on Hashirama's shoulder. "We have done well today. Let us ensure that our actions in the future continue to reflect our commitment to peace and unity."

The journey back to Konoha was one of reflection and planning. Upon their return, they were greeted with anticipation and curiosity by their fellow villagers. The news of the successful summit spread quickly, bringing a sense of pride and accomplishment to Konoha.

In the days that followed, the village's coffers were filled with the payments from the other villages. The resources gained from the transactions would be used to further strengthen and develop Konoha, ensuring its continued prosperity.

As the leaders of Konoha gathered to review the outcomes of the summit, Hashirama spoke with a sense of hope and determination. "We have achieved something remarkable. The distribution of the tailed beasts is a symbol of our commitment to peace. Now, we must continue to build on this foundation and lead the way towards a united and prosperous future for all shinobi."

The room filled with nods of agreement and a renewed sense of purpose. The Five Kage Summit had marked the beginning of a new era, one where the shinobi villages could work together towards a common goal. The path ahead would be challenging, but with the leadership and vision of Hashirama, Tobirama, Hiroshi, and their allies, the future of the shinobi world looked brighter than ever.