Chapter 242: He Is Very Powerful, but It’s Another Story When He Meets Me

When faced with the Third Raikage's challenge, Shinki agreed without hesitation.

Was it ignorance, recklessness, or pure confidence?

The Third Hokage was uneasy. He had boasted extensively about Shinki's abilities. If Shinki were defeated—or worse, killed—how could he face Tsunade's wrath?

"Very well," the Raikage said, his excitement barely concealed. "Does anyone else have objections to the compensation agreement?"

The Raikage's eagerness to fight made Ohnoki grimace internally. I hope you're having fun. Do you really think the economic situation in Iwagakure is better than in Kumogakure?

Even the Third Kazekage scowled. Paying hundreds of millions was a painful prospect for Sunagakure. Yet refusing could mean worse consequences.

Compensation through Ore

The Third Hokage coughed to gather attention, breaking the tension. He handed a list to Ohnoki and the Third Kazekage.

"Tsuchikage, Kazekage, considering your villages' economic difficulties, Shinki has agreed to accept mineral resources in lieu of monetary payment. Does this proposal work for you?"

"Ore instead of money?" Ohnoki and the Kazekage were momentarily stunned before eagerly examining the list.

Fortunately for them, the list excluded rare minerals, focusing on standard ores. Mining would be labor-intensive but far better than draining their treasuries. For Iwagakure, known for its Earth Release ninjutsu, mining was no big deal. Meanwhile, Sunagakure's magnetic release abilities made mining a viable solution.

The Third Kazekage sighed inwardly. His financial situation was precarious. Unlike the daimyo of other nations, the Wind Daimyo provided meager support, forcing the village to rely heavily on mining. His successor, Rasa, had faced even harsher conditions.

"I have no objection," Ohnoki declared, resigned. At least this arrangement avoided the risk of facing Shinki's devastating puppets on the battlefield.

The Third Kazekage hesitated but ultimately nodded in agreement. Using mines to pay off debts was the only feasible solution.

The Agreement

"Since everyone is in agreement, let's formalize this with a written contract," the Third Hokage said, distributing papers.

The agreement outlined restrictions on Shinki's use of puppets. He was forbidden from employing them in war or against villages, though they were allowed in daily activities or missions.

The Kage had no objections. Complete prohibition was unrealistic; this compromise at least protected their villages and battlefields.

Once the agreements were signed and stamped, the Third Raikage clapped his hands, eager for action.

"Good. Now that the paperwork is done, let's fight."

Preparation for the Duel

Shinki nonchalantly tucked the signed agreement away. "We can start now. Let's finish this quickly. Staying in the Land of Iron any longer is pointless—there's nothing interesting here."

The Raikage's enthusiasm only grew, but the other Kage were skeptical. The Third Raikage was a terrifying opponent, unmatched in strength, speed, and durability. Many doubted Shinki could match him.

After the meeting, the Third Hokage caught up with Shinki, his worry evident.

"Are you sure about this? The Raikage is unparalleled in the current ninja world. Even Ohnoki avoids confronting him head-on because his attacks can't pierce the Raikage's defenses. His speed, strength, and durability are unmatched."

The Hokage recalled how even the Eight-Tails couldn't kill the Raikage. The only scar on the Raikage's body was self-inflicted, a testament to his unbreakable defense.

Shinki, however, was unperturbed.

"I'll be fine," he said calmly. "The Raikage's strengths have limits. He may be strong, but I know how to deal with him."

The Hokage hesitated, unsure whether Shinki's confidence stemmed from genuine capability or reckless arrogance.

"Be wary of his Hell Stab. It's his strongest and most dangerous move."

Shinki nodded. "I'm aware. But remember, the Hell Stab can only target someone directly. That's its limitation."

Confidence in Strategy

The group returned to their quarters to prepare for departure, but the duel loomed. Despite the Raikage's fearsome reputation, Shinki's calm demeanor remained unshaken.

The other Kage, however, watched with intrigue. Could Shinki truly counter the Raikage's seemingly invincible offense and defense? For now, they could only wait—and hope to witness the answer in the upcoming battle.

>>>>>

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