CH - 134 Uzumaki Clan's New Approach.

The recent events, particularly the battle aimed at eradicating the Grass Village by the Four Great Villages, have brought several significant revelations regarding the Grass Village. These revelations encompassed the remarkable strength of the Grass Village's leader and the rapid ascendancy of the village itself.

For Konoha, these developments were further complicated by the unexpected reappearance of the Uzumaki Clan, which had a special connection to the village. The Uzumaki Clan's history with Konoha was deeply entwined, their relationship was far from simple. The First Hokage's wife hailed from the Uzumaki Clan, and her contributions to Konoha were immeasurable, particularly in the field of sealing jutsu and the demonstration of Jinchuriki viability.

Additionally, going back to the Warring States Period, the Senju Clan had maintained a strong and enduring friendship with the Uzumaki Clan, a bond that had carried over into the founding of Konoha. The distinct whirlpool symbol present on the backs of Konoha ninja vests and part of the symbol on the forehead protector served as a representation of the close and enduring relationship between Konoha and the Uzumaki Clan.

Consequently, it was initially assumed that the Uzumaki Clan had gradually diminished or even disappeared entirely over time, due to the surrounding nations and factions. The sudden resurgence of this clan within the neighboring Grass Village had caught many by surprise.

Hiruzen Sarutobi's smile held a touch of resignation as he sighed and spoke, "The Grass Village has certainly caused us quite a bit of trouble. Even Kushina has been adamant about wanting to visit that place."

Homura Mitokado, a strategist for Konoha, displayed unwavering determination as he shook his head firmly. "We cannot allow her to leave the village under any circumstances. The Nine-Tails is of paramount importance to Konoha, and any misfortune could be catastrophic, especially given her status as the Jinchuriki."

Kushina Uzumaki, who had been brought to Konoha from the wandering Uzumaki clan, presented a unique challenge. If she ventured to the Grass Village and showed reluctance to return, how would they retrieve her? Furthermore, this would raise questions about her status as either Konoha's Jinchuriki or belonging to the Uzumaki Clan.

While Kushina had been under the protection of Mito-sama ever since her arrival in Konoha and had grown up freely and happily according to Mito-sama's wishes, there remained uncertainties about her intentions.

Homura contemplated with a sigh, thinking, 'Perhaps Danzo's decision could have been correct back then.' He then assumed a serious expression and stated, "Konoha must intensify its supervision over the Jinchuriki. Simultaneously, we must gain an understanding of the Uzumaki Clan's intentions."

Koharu Utatane, who stood beside them, suddenly chimed in, "It might not be all bad. The relationship between Konoha and the Uzumaki Clan has always been good. The tragedy from the past... it wasn't Konoha's fault."

At this point, Koharu's eyes displayed a hint of seriousness as she continued, "However, this Grass Village leader..."

Without articulating the words, both Homura and Hiruzen grasped her implication. Although the Grass Village's leader often described their villages as close siblings and emphasized their alliance, he had deceived them without hesitation when it suited his purposes.

Koharu concluded with a wry smile, "I didn't anticipate that after the Rain Village, the Grass Village would give birth to such a formidable figure!"

This Grass Village leader displayed no hesitation in deceiving the Five Great Ninja Villages into a staged conflict. His capacity for deception knew no bounds. Furthermore, his behavior is far from the straightforward, demigod-like conduct observed during the time of the Second Great Ninja War. He engages in shameless tricks without hesitation.

For instance, he discreetly led his ninja into the Land of Fire, ambushing the Mist Village, inadvertently causing a battle in that region and some collateral damage. Even, the Daimyo of the Land of Fire expressed his dissatisfaction with these developments.

Koharu maintained her serious expression as she went on, "It might be in our best interest to improve relations between Konoha and the Uzumaki Clan. We can extend an invitation to the Uzumaki clan, letting them know that if anyone wishes to meet with Kushina, Konoha welcomes them. In addition, the Uzumaki Clan could play a pivotal role in serving as a bridge between the Grass Village and Konoha, facilitating sincere negotiations between the two parties."

She paused and added with a sigh, "We must acknowledge that the Grass Village's sudden rise has taken us somewhat by surprise. Nevertheless, it may be possible to alleviate the impact on Konoha by involving the Uzumaki Clan and the Grass Village in these efforts. There's no need for this war to escalate further."

After the Grass Village leader's decisive victory over the Third Mizukage and the significant losses suffered by the Mist Village, the Mist Village redirected most of its forces toward the Sand Village. Their strategy appeared to involve regaining their losses from the Sand Village first before refocusing their efforts on the Grass Village. The deeply rooted hatred between the Mist and Sand Villages continued to fuel the ongoing war, making it difficult to halt until the grudges were resolved.

Meanwhile, the Stone Village, the Cloud Village, and the Sand Village, which had participated in the conflict against the Grass Village, didn't suffer substantial losses. However, following the Sand Village's withdrawal, the Sand Village intensified its attacks on Kikyo Pass, adding pressure on Konoha.

Koharu pondered the situation and commented, "With the Grass Village and the Uzumaki Clan diverting the attention of other major ninja villages, this may work to Konoha's advantage. Ultimately, it's in everyone's interest to bring this war to a conclusion."

As Koharu concluded her statement, a thoughtful silence fell over Hiruzen, Homura, and herself. Each wore a contemplative expression, deep in thought as they weighed their options.

"I will talk to Minato," Hiruzen responded with a sigh and a reassuring smile. "I have faith in him, he possesses the unwavering will of fire, and I believe he'll handle Kushina's feelings with the utmost care. I'll also ensure that we inform both the Uzumaki Clan and the Grass Village. This is a step toward preserving peace in the ninja world."

However, Hiruzen had additional concerns to address. He had been patient with Orochimaru, hoping that time might heal the emotional wounds that drove the man's forbidden jutsu and inhumane experiments. But it was evident that Orochimaru's obsession had only grown. Sending Orochimaru to Kikyo Pass served as an opportunity to see if he could find a way to redirect Orochimaru's dangerous pursuits.

Changing the topic, Hiruzen inquired, "Speaking of which, where has Danzo gone this time? He's been absent for quite a while now."

A few days later, an official letter from the Grass Village arrived in Konoha. Hiruzen and his associates gathered around a table to read the letter. Their expressions lightened as they noticed the bold words at the top, declaring, "Sure, We Accept Your Proposal."

After all, It was a sensible choice for smaller villages to align with Konoha or strengthen their ties. Konoha was renowned as the most powerful ninja village, and this alliance would be beneficial for both parties.

The prospect of this war coming to an end was now evident. If the Grass Village were to join their forces and emerge victorious, it could provide a unique opportunity for negotiation with the Five Great Ninja Villages. This was a pivotal moment for the Grass Village, whether they sought peace or aimed to establish themselves as the Sixth Great Nation.

Koharu's voice broke their reverie, prompting them to turn their attention back to the letter. She mentioned, "Wait, there's more in the letter."

Upon hearing Koharu's words, the three of them delved further into the letter. To their surprise, their smiles gradually faded, and a somber silence enveloped them.

{ However, in repelling the Four Great Ninja Villages this time, the Grass Village suffered significant losses and requires some time to recover. Therefore, the Grass Village will reorganize as soon as possible to come to Konoha's aid. We hope for your understanding. Rest assured, the Grass Village is committed to the principle that allies do not deceive one another. After all, our village, too, yearns for peace.}

In essence, they were conveying the message, "Please hold on for now, and we will come to your aid shortly."

"It seems that the Grass Village is quite cautious about Konoha," Koharu remarked with a sigh. She turned her gaze to Hiruzen, who was deep in thought, and added, "But it's not necessarily a bad thing. The Uzumaki Clan has also sent a letter. Let's see how they responded."

With curiosity and a touch of concern, Hiruzen and Homura swiftly opened the letter from the Uzumaki Clan. Given their close relationship with Konoha, the Uzumaki Clan should have been more receptive to their alliance proposal. However, as they read the contents, their expressions shifted.

The Uzumaki Clan's response was rather brief, containing only the words, "Leader's words also represent us."

A moment of speechlessness hung in the air as a disconcerting realization dawned on them. It seemed the Uzumaki Clan had undergone a significant change in their stance.

…

Akihiko's primary concern wasn't Konoha's reaction at this moment. The Grass Village had no intention of getting embroiled in the wars between the Five Great Ninja Villages, especially if it meant being on the battlefield alongside Konoha. Such a situation could potentially result in the Grass Village being decimated, and they might end up seeking Konoha's protection in the end.

Currently, Akihiko was occupied with numerous post-war matters demanding his attention. While gazing at the enthusiastic Yoshinori beside him, Akihiko set aside the document he had been reviewing and spoke with a hint of resignation, "We can explore the idea of laying down a lightning rail to the Land of Rain. As for funding..." He lowered his voice, drawing closer to Yoshinori, and whispered into his ear, "You can discuss it with Kakuzu. This… could be a highly profitable endeavor, you know."

Yoshinori's eyes brightened as he caught Akihiko's drift, nodding with a knowing look. "I see what you mean!"

With that understanding, he promptly made his exit. It was time to progress to the next stage of the lightning rail project: the trial phase. As Yoshinori left, Akihiko exhaled deeply, relieved that the immediate matters were settled. "Is it finally over?"

Akihiko reclined comfortably, ready to seek out Kana for some relaxation. However, his plans were interrupted when an unexpected figure burst into the room, leaving him momentarily perplexed. "Why are you here?"

Hanzo, his expression less than pleased, retorted, "You rascal, you've actually escaped to the Grass Village for a break. I had to travel all the way here just to meet you!" He didn't seem happy at all as he continued, "What about the promise you made to me?"

Akihiko was bewildered, trying to make sense of Hanzo's words. He couldn't recall what exactly Hanzo was referring to.

Observing Akihiko's perplexed expression, Hanzo smacked his forehead in exasperation. 'This guy' - he had been eagerly looking forward to the promised matter, but it seemed that Akihiko had completely forgotten about it.

Hanzo growled with frustration and anger, "The opportunity for peace in the Land of Rain, you dammit!"

Akihiko's eyes brightened with recognition, and he chuckled, "Oh, that! Don't be upset. I've actually been pondering it recently."

Hanzo looked at Akihiko with a skeptical look, his finger pointed at the ground. "Come on, don't tell me you're playing games with me again. I swear, I'll just lie down right here!"

Akihiko was taken aback by Hanzo's shameless protest. He couldn't believe how much the once mighty demigod of the ninja world had changed.

Raising an eyebrow, Akihiko sighed inwardly and adopted a more serious tone. "To achieve peace in the Land of Rain, the first step is to address the internal issues within the Land of Rain."

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