Chapter 107

Upon hearing Hitoshi's words, Madara wanted to refute, but found himself unable to. He had to admit that Hitoshi was right. Senju Hashirama's way of achieving peace was to live each day, which deterred nations from causing chaos. It was successful as long as Hashirama was alive, as there were no wars during his time. But it was also a failure, as wars erupted once he passed away.

"Eternal life is too difficult, and even Rikudō Sennin couldn't achieve it. People are unpredictable, and no one knows when they will fall," Madara sighed, a hint of loss in his eyes.

"That's why I don't want to use military force alone to fight for peace. That would simply be another version of Hashirama's approach. In Sunagakure, I will utilize my military force to fight for peace. The collective is always greater than the individual," Hitoshi shrugged, spreading out comfortably on his chair with a smile.

"I hope your method succeeds," Madara responded, raising his glass and taking a sip.

"Peace is not achieved through mere words; it is a pursuit that requires action. The process itself is crucial," Hitoshi added, raising his glass as well and emptying it.

They continued their discussion within the tavern, an old era meeting a new era. The two delved into topics about the passage of time, the peace of each era, and strategies for achieving peace. As their strengths were equal and their status on par, the atmosphere of their conversation became quite pleasant.

They drank through the night until morning. When Pakura found Hitoshi, he was still seated, continuing to drink alone. Madara had been escorted away by Tobi, leaving Hitoshi by himself to enjoy the fresh morning air and a small amount of wine.

Hitoshi's unique system made him immune to the effects of alcohol. For him, wine was nothing more than mildly spicy water if he wished it to be.

"Why are you so flustered? Something doesn't seem right," Hitoshi smiled, looking straight at the gloomy-faced Pakura.

"Kazekage-sama," Pakura respectfully saluted before conveying the information. "We've received news that Hanzo from Amegakure, leading an elite team of Jonin, suddenly attacked Takigakure and took the Seven-Tails."

"I understand," Hitoshi replied nonchalantly, stretching lazily as he regained his focus.

"Kazekage-sama, we have a cooperative relationship with Amegakure, but if a war breaks out in Ame no Kuni, it will be very unfavorable for us. Additionally, we have agreements with both Konoha and Iwagakure. Our interests in Ame no Kuni can only be passively defended," Pakura hurriedly explained, concerned about Hitoshi's seemingly unconcerned reaction.

Looking at Pakura with surprise, Hitoshi remarked, "Tsk tsk, you've really grown. You see things so clearly. Unfortunately, you're a little late."

Hitoshi examined Pakura from head to toe, marveling at her perceptiveness.

"Kazekage-sama, please stop causing trouble. Don't you think this situation is serious enough? As you mentioned earlier, Konoha's White Fang and the other Kage have reached a breakthrough. Hanzo definitely won't be able to stop them," Pakura exclaimed, shocked. In her perception, while Konoha may not have the best reputation, they wouldn't engage in such behavior as snatching a Bijū. Wasn't that the kind of action Kumogakure was known for—taking things from others?

"Return? Of course it will be returned, but since you're so weak, I'll hold onto it for a couple of days. No objections, right? After the Shinōbi World war, when the world is peaceful, I'll return it to you," Hitoshi replied with a dismissive attitude.

He didn't need a strong reason to withhold the Seven-Tails. Any excuse would suffice. As for Takigakure's opinion, it was inconsequential to him. Their thoughts were irrelevant; they were akin to passing gas. Moreover, as a small Hidden Village causing trouble, they should be grateful that he was even paying attention to them. Hitoshi understood Sarutobi Hiruzen's approach all too well. If he were in Sarutobi Hiruzen's position, he would take care of Takigakure in the same way.

"Also, mark my words, the dragonfly beetle, the Seven-Tails, will soon be affiliated with Konoha," Hitoshi sneered.

"Impossible! Isn't Takigakure under Konoha's influence? Konoha wouldn't do such a thing," Pakura exclaimed in disbelief. In her understanding, although Konoha may have its flaws, its public reputation was quite good. It seemed unlikely that they would engage in the act of snatching a Bijū. Wasn't that Kumogakure's specialty—raiding and seizing things from others?

"They will return it, but you're weak. I'll hold onto it for a few days to help you out. After the war in the Shinōbi World when there is peace, I will return it," Hitoshi responded, indicating that there would be no further discussion.

Hitoshi sighed inwardly, thinking, "As expected, the hearts of politicians are all black." He wasn't cruel or heartless; the circumstances forced his hand.

"Pakura, don't worry. The fool Hanzo thinks he's clever, but we've been keeping a close eye on him. Although Ame no Kuni may be lacking, we've searched high and low, and it's worth it for everyone to take a bite out of him," Hitoshi spoke coldly.

As they walked back to the Kazekage building, Hitoshi pondered the interests of other Hidden Villages. Only by understanding their desires could he better manipulate the situation.

"Konoha will undoubtedly pursue the Seven-Tails. Iwagakure will likely be interested in the land and resources near them. As for Kumogakure and Kirigakure, it's probably related to Ninjutsu," Hitoshi mused. He didn't believe that Ame no Kuni's potential rise would only draw the attention of Konoha and Iwagakure. Kumogakure and Kirigakure might also have their appetites whetted, even from a distance.

Considering his current position, Hitoshi had taken Uzu no Kuni and its population, including the Uzumaki Clan. If Kirigakure hadn't contributed to the creation of Sealing Jutsu, Hitoshi would have beheaded them and offered it to them.