CH - 158 Danzo is a good guy.

Several days later, Akihiko received a letter from Konoha, visibly taken aback. "I didn't expect them to respond so quickly, I thought we'd be negotiating with Konoha for a while!"

Grass Village had tricked Konoha several times before, so Akihiko assumed that Konoha would carefully consider cooperation. Moreover, with the Third Hokage's hesitant nature, he assumed it might take weeks, perhaps a month, for a decision. Yet, to his surprise, a decision was reached within days, although it was not under Konoha's name directly, they designated a representative instead.

This approach was likely aimed at minimizing potential losses in case of mishaps. Even if losses occurred, they could readily attribute it to the representative, invoking the banner of 'For Konoha' to shield themselves.

"Interestingly, during the discussions, the Third Hokage seemed rather indecisive, and even many others voiced clear objections. However, given the unique positions of the Grass and Rain Village, I reckon the Third Hokage was reluctant to outright refuse," Mubuki remarked casually, "Perhaps he was concerned that outright rejection might lead us to seek alliances with other ninja villages."

It mirrored the situation with the ninja vests. Back then, Grass Village shared a tight bond with Konoha. Seeking benefits, they initially approached allies and gave priority to Konoha. However, they faced rejection as Konoha perceived their offerings as low-quality goods. It wasn't until they sought the Sand Village's partnership that Konoha came running...

"Yet, they were also apprehensive about potential troubles from Grass Village. I heard that when the Third Hokage was concluding the meeting, intending to revisit the matter later, at that moment..." Mubuki sighed once more, "Hokage's advisor, Danzo Shimura, stepped forward, vehemently rejecting the proposal and even suggesting the declaration of war against Grass Village. The outcome..." his expression shifted, "Following a dispute with Danzo, the Third Hokage eventually conceded. Yet, rather than direct cooperation with Konoha, they designated a representative, probably to minimize potential village losses."

As Mubuki concluded, Akihiko's expression took on a peculiar mix of emotions. The narrative unfolded vividly in his mind.

The Third Hokage, torn in his decision-making, faced intervention from Danzo Shimura, who vehemently opposed and sprinkled in some theatrics involving supposed 'Threats from Grass Village.' The peace-oriented Third Hokage swiftly rejected this dramatic plea.

Akihiko envisioned the scene:

Danzo Shimura: You'll regret this, Hiruzen!

Third Hokage: I am the Hokage, Danzo!

The classic exchange echoed, and in the aftermath of the heated confrontation, Danzo dramatically exited. In the wake of this commotion, the Third Hokage sought a middle ground, opting to designate a representative.

In the end, that representative turned out to be Homura Mitokado. Akihiko could almost picture Homura silently cursing his luck. After all, he was just minding his own business, and somehow, this chaotic situation landed squarely on his shoulders. 

Akihiko knows that in the eyes of the Konoha people, Grass Village appeared to be a pit. Yet, this time, they harbored no intentions of deceit. After all, Another trick would tarnish their reputation, making even the other Five Great Ninja Villages reluctant to engage in business with Grass Village. Therefore, This time, genuine cooperation was actually their intent.

Akihiko let out a sudden sigh and muttered, "Danzo is really a good guy."

In his view, without Danzo's intervention, the deliberation between Grass Village and Konoha might have dragged on due to the latter's wariness. Danzo's interference, however, prompted the Third Hokage to swiftly reach a decision, albeit one made in irritation.

Mubuki regarded Akihiko with a perplexed expression. What was the leader talking about? What commendable qualities did Danzo possess? What's so good about that guy?

After all, Danzo Shimura belonged to Konoha's pro-war faction. Especially after being manipulated by Grass and Rain during this war, he likely held a deep-seated animosity toward both villages.

Based on the information gathered during this period, any chance Danzo got, he would eagerly advocate for war against Grass and Rain in the name of Konoha. So, what was commendable about him? He was an adversary of Grass Village. However, before Mubuki could voice his confusion, Akihiko continued.

"Handle Konoha's affairs swiftly, preferably before year-end, and also..." Akihiko's voice dropped to a whisper, "When the time comes, spread the news about our collaboration with Konoha and highlight our significant earnings."

Akihiko paused, a subtle smile playing on his lips, as he inquired, "I recall we still have an outstanding order from Iwa, correct?"

"Yes, but is it wise to fulfill it? After all, Iwa did suffer quite a setback last time." Mubuki's expression shifted, understanding the leader's implication. He added with a wry smile, "Even if we were inclined to complete it, Iwa might not be willing to accept it."

"No worries. Once we make it known that we're in collaboration with Five Great Ninja Villages, we'll be perceived as a multinational corporation," Akihiko stated with an earnest expression.

Mubuki couldn't help but feel skeptical about these cooperative relationships. He harbored no illusions, if given the opportunity, the Five Great Ninja Villages would likely entertain the idea of wiping out Grass Village.

Sensing Mubuki's hesitancy, Akihiko continued, "Leave the Iwa matter for now. Focus on resolving Konoha's affairs, and aim to conclude it before the new year." He patted Mubuki's shoulder and emphasized, "Ensure that every person in Konoha can enjoy our movies during the holiday."

…

As time flowed swiftly, the weather grew colder, and a hush settled over the entire ninja world.

It could be attributed to the substantial losses incurred during the Third Great Ninja War, leading to a slow and cautious recovery. Consequently, each ninja village opted for a low-key approach, focusing on silent development.

In the Land of Rain, reconstruction efforts progressed smoothly. The nation, under the joint influence of Grass and Rain Villages, finally experienced a long-awaited peace. This era also witnessed a deepening bond between Grass and Rain, marked by increased interactions and strengthened relations between the two nations.

On the cinematic front, a significant stride was made as Homura Mitokado, a respected elder from Konoha, assumed the role of the spokesperson for the Grass film industry. Additionally, the completion of a movie theater in Konoha marked a noteworthy achievement.

This development raised eyebrows in other ninja villages, leaving them puzzled. Weren't the citizens of Konoha concerned about falling for another trick? After all, they were bringing elements from Grass Village into their own territory, seemingly without fear of being deceived again.

However, both Grass and Konoha Villages paid little attention to these concerns. Grass Village had a business goal in mind, and Konoha, in this case, served merely as a middleman. In case of genuine issues, Konoha retained the option to impose bans or blockades.

In the blink of an eye, the first New Year after the war arrived.

…

In the winter of that year, possibly influenced by the recent conclusion of the war, the entire ninja world existed in a desolate state. As a result, this winter was marked by an unusual chill.

Even within Konoha, though the village had managed to clear the snow, there was still a thin layer coating the streets and pathways.

Nevertheless, despite the biting cold outdoors, the village exuded a sense of liveliness. This was attributed to the fact that it was the first New Year following the war, bringing a semblance of festivity to the atmosphere.

Amidst the festive ambiance, a silver-haired youth with a face mask covering his chin strolled expressionlessly down the street. His hands were nestled in his pockets, seemingly unaffected by the small snowflakes that gently descended upon him. In stark contrast to the lively scene of the village embracing the new year, he walked alone, seemingly detached from the joy around him.

Suddenly, as if detecting something, an expression of surprise crossed his face. Almost involuntarily, he cast his gaze towards a distance, and what caught his eye was not just the unexpected inauguration of a movie theater but a poster featuring a peculiar figure. Despite the disguise and a semblance of age, the unmistakable aura exuded by that figure... immediately struck a chord with him. 

Kakashi's face registered a flicker of astonishment. He hastened his steps, fixing an intense gaze upon the figure on the poster. "Obito?!"

How had Obito ended up there? In a movie, of all things? The question lingered in Kakashi's mind as he looked at the poster in disbelief.

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