Chapter 205 : Angry Crowd!!

Kazuhiko gazed upon the flames before him, watching as the old covenant burned away, consumed by the fire.

In this moment, his eyes were tranquil, devoid of the complexities that once filled them. Everything had passed; after all, the Land of Whirlpools had been reborn under his stewardship.

Behind him, the elder Uzumakis also watched the covenant burn, their faith unwavering that the Land of Whirlpools would reclaim its former glory under their new clan head's leadership.

Finally, the covenant turned to ashes in Kazuhiko's hands, scattered by the breeze.

Kazuhiko observed silently as the remnants of the covenant dissipated in the wind.

Lifting his head, he fixed Sarutobi Hiruzen with an intense gaze, a hint of displeasure flashing in his eyes.

"Who said we were going to forge a new covenant?"

Kazuhiko's words reverberated in Sarutobi Hiruzen's ears, his tone calm yet striking like thunder.

Sarutobi Hiruzen turned to Kazuhiko in disbelief, his Hokage hat slightly askew from the sudden movement.

Hurriedly adjusting his hat, Sarutobi Hiruzen asked softly, his tone a mix of curiosity and concern, "What do you mean? Do you have other requests?"

Kazuhiko regarded him calmly, every word carrying weight.

"I mean, who gave you the impression that we intend to forge a new covenant with Konoha?"

Kazuhiko's gentle voice echoed throughout the Hokage Rock.

In an instant, silence fell upon the gathering. Shocked gazes turned towards Kazuhiko, both from those below the stage and the high-ranking officials of Konoha on the platform. Except for the Uzumaki clan members who were already aware of the decision, everyone was taken aback.

They couldn't fathom that such words could come from the mouth of the Uzumaki clan head. Could it be that he truly had no desire to ally with Konoha?

The silence was shattered by a sudden uproar.

"What did he say? He doesn't want to continue the covenant with Konoha?"

"By the gods, that covenant was established by the First Hokage. It symbolizes the bond between Konoha and the Land of Whirlpools over the years. How could the Land of Whirlpools..."

"Is there truly a nation willing to sever ties with the first shinobi village like Konoha? It's inconceivable!"

"I can't believe it. Is this the decision of the Land of Whirlpools? Could it be that Kazuhiko is no longer an ally of Konoha?"

All eyes were fixed on Kazuhiko, who stood impassive amidst the chaos.

The breeze tousled his fiery red hair, a testament to his vitality. Clad in black trousers and a white robe, he exuded an air of freshness and freedom.

Yet, his words had left everyone stunned.

In that moment, Orochimaru understood his earlier suspicions, Tsunade recalled Kazuhiko's words from the night before, realizing their significance.

"...it may not align with common beliefs..."

Strangely, she harbored no resentment towards Kazuhiko in her heart.

Upon hearing Kazuhiko's declaration, Mitokado Homura shattered the teacup in his hand, ignoring the scalding tea as it spilled.

Rising to his feet, he echoed Kazuhiko's words from the previous night, "The previous covenant is no longer valid..."

It became apparent that the intended agreement was no longer applicable, as the covenant between the Land of Whirlpools and Konoha had ceased to hold value. The Land of Whirlpools showed reluctance to renew ties with Konoha.

Foolishly, he presumed that the Land of Whirlpools sought greater benefits, unaware of the true intentions.

Regardless of their might, they were expected to pay homage to Konoha.

In an instant, the sting of being deceived flooded his heart, transforming into raw fury that surged through his mind, flushing his somber countenance crimson.

Across the room, Utatane Koharu and Danzo rose to their feet. Danzo harbored a faint anticipation while maintaining a composed facade.

Utatane Koharu, however, simmered with indignation, glaring furiously at Kazuhiko.

Among the agitated senior figures of Konoha, aside from the Uzumaki clan, the spies from other nations present and the Uchiha elders found satisfaction.

Being guardians of law and order, their presence in the assembly was customary.

Upon receiving the news, several Uchiha elders initially suspected treachery from the Uzumaki clan. However, they quickly dismissed the notion, deeming it illogical.

Consequently, most Uchiha elders assembled at Hokage Rock to observe the unfolding events.

Kazuhiko's proclamation nearly prompted them to burst into uncontrollable grins. Barely concealing their glee, they yearned to rejoice openly.

Observing the enraged Konoha elders, they harbored only a sense of vindication.

At that moment, Sarutobi Hiruzen felt no satisfaction. Instead, he likened his state to being bound to a stove, subjected to intense scrutiny.

The adoration and respect from below swiftly morphed into suspicion and mistrust, fixated firmly on him.

"Kazuhiko, are you cognizant of the gravity of your words? Understand that for a small nation to forge an alliance with Konoha is a coveted dream for many!"

Sarutobi Hiruzen's words carried a growl, emanating anger even through his Hokage hat.

Before Kazuhiko could respond, Mitokado Homura's vehement protests echoed from the sidelines.

"Indeed, Uzumaki clan head, do you comprehend the repercussions of your statements? You are jeopardizing Konoha's alliances!"

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