Chapter 64 : Tailed Beast Exchange

As they both stood there, Kazuhiko eventually spoke in a calm tone.

"After all, this is already a pact involving both our nations. Regardless of whether it leads to unity or separation in the future, we owe an explanation."

The elders and Kazuhiko had already made their plans, even if Danzo and his group failed to arrive today.

Within two days, they would send a message to Konoha.

The  Land of Whirlpools had been dealing with other matters lately, but soon they would head to the Land of Fire.

Both Danzo and Utatane Koharu listened to Kazuhiko's words with disbelief in their eyes, but upon meeting his determined gaze, they quickly averted their eyes.

"Very well, young clan heir. We will report the truth to Lord Hokage," Utatane Koharu hurriedly spoke, taking charge of most diplomatic matters.

"Alright, no need to fret. You can depart, leave the  Land of Whirlpools soon, and return," Kazuhiko instructed them in the same tone he used with his own people.

They did not dare to voice any discontent and nodded in agreement. "Yes, then we bid you farewell!"

The two of them slowly retreated, stepping out of the hall before turning around and leaving. Throughout their exit, they remained silent, only exhaling a sigh of relief once they were out of Kazuhiko's sight.

Utatane Koharu, originally a medical ninja, immediately began channeling chakra to heal her injuries. Both of them had sustained injuries and had hastily bandaged themselves together.

They exchanged glances, wanting to say something, yet fearing that others might overhear, they kept their thoughts to themselves, planning to discuss it later.

As they walked away, the loyal ninja from Konoha who had accompanied them initially, excited to represent their village, now looked like lost souls.

They couldn't help but wonder what transpired in that hall. They knew it wasn't their place to ask, but it was evident that the outcome wouldn't be favorable.

Just as they exited the Uzumaki clan's gate, Danzo couldn't resist casting a backward glance. His fists clenched, and he swore, "I will reclaim today's humiliation, I guarantee it!"

"The  Land of Whirlpools should not think their Kage-level power is enough to insult me, Danzo like this!"

Yet, in an instant, thoughts of the boy who appeared almost demonic, with his profound gaze, sent shivers down Danzo's spine.

"Never mind, this was our strategic error. We didn't anticipate individuals like those in the  Land of Whirlpools. In the presence of such strength, respect is due to all."

"Next time, if an opportunity arises, I will surely find a way to exact revenge..."

Utatane Koharu, on the other hand, didn't dare to entertain such thoughts. She was a medical ninja with no combat capabilities, but her years as a consultant elder in Konoha had given her great confidence.

However, in the face of someone like Kazuhiko, she felt utterly powerless, muttering silently, "Savage boy!"

With no further contemplation, the two hurriedly departed. The other Konoha shinobi who had been waiting outside the hall were already on their way to the hotel, now rushing back.

As they exited, they encountered Mist shinobi, and the two groups passed each other, eyeing each other warily.

"Konoha!"

"Mist Shinobi?"

Kazuhiko and the others paid them no heed. They had been discussing a tailed beast exchange with Kirigakure.

"Clan Head, you'll handle the specifics of the exchange with Kirigakure. It should be expedited, and decisions made swiftly to avoid further disputes."

"Once we acquire the tailed beast, we'll have greater leverage when dealing with Konoha," Kazuhiko instructed Kiyoshi.

"Don't worry, Kazuhiko. We have everything planned. The Mist Shinobi's representatives are on their way, and I've informed the guards to let them in upon arrival."

Kiyoshi spoke quickly, "If all goes well, we can finalize the tailed beast exchange today."

"Excellent. Once it's done, the elders will perform the sealing technique together to ensure the tailed beast's seal is foolproof."

Kazuhiko nodded, satisfied. He was relieved to leave these matters to Kiyoshi, sparing him the hassles of negotiations and confrontations that came with such transactions, even with a contract.

However, he failed to notice that despite not being the current Clan Head, his authority far exceeded Kiyoshi's. 

Unconsciously, he began issuing orders within the clan, and everyone accepted it as normal, even Kiyoshi himself.

"Mist Shinobi are here!" Kazuhiko noticed the Mist Shinobi approaching the door.

The Uzumaki clan members promptly sat up, adopting a serious demeanor, and ceased their laughter.

As the Mist Shinobi entered and saw Kazuhiko standing there, their eyes widened in recognition.

Besides the Mist Shinobi, Two envoys of Daimyo from the Land of Water were also present. All of them bowed respectfully to Kazuhiko, acknowledging his formidable Kage-level strength.

For the detailed discussions, Kazuhiko handed them over to Kiyoshi. This matter did not require his direct involvement; his presence alone sufficed.

The most crucial issue was sealing the tailed beast, a negotiation they had already arranged with Kirigakure. 

In this transaction, Kirigakure would provide the Six-Tails, with its six milky-white tails - Saiken.

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