Chapter 150: Damn It! Make That Konoha Ambassador Kneel and Apologize Under the Suna Banner!

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Baki no longer had time to dwell on the Summer Camp fiasco. His attention was now fixed on the article, "The Uchiha and Uzumaki Wedding of the Century."

Uchiha Fugaku…

He had recently unleashed the Susanoo, a jutsu that had shocked the entire ninja world, during Konoha's special military operation against Kusagakure.

Such a prominent figure's marriage, even to a second wife, would undoubtedly be closely scrutinized by the Hokage.

This meant—the Uchiha-Uzumaki union had Konoha's approval.

And what did that mean? Even with his—limited intellect, Baki understood. This was Konoha's way of declaring—

We're back! The ninja world's overlords have returned!

Why had Uzushiogakure been destroyed? Because of its close ties to Konoha and its powerful sealing jutsu.

Back then, Konoha had been at its peak. If they couldn't control the Uzumaki, they'd simply—eliminate them.

For years, Konoha hadn't dared rebuild the Uzumaki clan, fearing the other villages' reactions.

This marriage—it was a political statement.

This was—his last chance. If he missed this opportunity, Sunagakure might truly become Konoha's vassal state.

He had to seize control. No matter the cost.

Rasa's leadership was too soft. He was leading Suna down the wrong path.

He, Baki, had to—correct this.

Returning to his residence, his face grim, Baki opened the door.

He froze, his eyes widening in shock. He instinctively drew his kunai. "Who's there?!"

A bizarre figure, clad in a black cloak embroidered with red clouds and partially concealed by two large leaves, sat casually at his table.

"Greetings, Baki. I am Zetsu. I'm here on behalf of my organization to—propose a deal."

"A deal?" Baki scoffed. "I don't negotiate with intruders."

He clapped his hands, preparing to summon the Suna Anbu. But Black Zetsu, unfazed, produced a small object. "Perhaps—after seeing this, you'll reconsider."

Baki's gaze fell upon the object in Zetsu's hand.

"That's…!" His eyes widened. "Sasori's pendant! How—who are you?!"

"I'm—Sasori's partner. We're part of the same organization. We've—come to seek your assistance regarding—the recent Uchiha-Uzumaki marriage."

Baki hesitated, his grip on the kunai loosening.

This—Zetsu, possessed Sasori's pendant and seemed concerned about the political implications of the marriage.

Perhaps—there was room for negotiation.

Sasori…

Chiyo's grandson, Ebizo's grandnephew, Sunagakure's—no, the Land of Wind's—most talented puppeteer!

He'd earned his moniker, Sasori of the Red Sand, before even reaching fifteen.

He was Suna's brightest star, destined for greatness, a ninja whose power could change the tide of war, a ninja on par with Konoha's White Fang.

Every faction within Sunagakure had seen him as a symbol of hope.

And with his lineage—he was practically guaranteed to become the Fifth Kazekage. If not for his youth, he might have even become the Fourth. He would lead Sunagakure to a new era of prosperity.

But then—tragedy struck. After his parents' death at the hands of Konoha's White Fang, Sasori had withdrawn, his personality twisting.

And at fifteen, he'd defected. Around the same time, the Third Kazekage vanished, triggering the Third Shinobi World War.

Sunagakure's leadership was devastated.

They had invested everything in Sasori, provided him with the best resources, even access to the village's limited water supply.

And he'd betrayed them.

Baki had been furious, dreaming of capturing Sasori and bringing him to justice.

But now…

If Sasori were still alive, how powerful would he be?

And if he were part of this—organization—could he be persuaded to help Sunagakure?

"So, Baki, are you interested in—a deal?"

Baki grunted, glancing around to ensure they weren't being observed. He then led Zetsu inside, locking the door behind them.

"What does Sasori want?"

"It's not just Sasori. It's the Akatsuki."

"Whatever. Get to the point."

"I want to disrupt the Konoha-Suna Trade Route opening ceremony—and eliminate Gojo Kaigetsu," Black Zetsu said bluntly.

Baki's breath hitched. He shook his head. "You want Suna's help? Impossible. That would trigger an all-out war with Konoha." He was ambitious, but not foolish. Sunagakure couldn't afford a war with Konoha. Not now.

"No, no. The Akatsuki will handle that. We just need you to—ensure Suna's ninja don't interfere. Perhaps even—create a distraction. Provide a—hunting ground."

Baki's eyes gleamed. "If that's all—I can agree." Openly defying Konoha was too risky. But secretly—that was a different matter.

Insufficient support? Even within a village, such things happened. Blaming an ally for a lack of reinforcements was easy. Chakra exhaustion, a sudden sandstorm—any excuse would suffice.

And at a crucial moment, he could even "trap" the attackers with a large-scale sand barrier, leaving them to die.

It would be an "accident," a "miscalculation." Surely a few ninja deaths wouldn't jeopardize the alliance. After all, they couldn't let the living suffer for the dead.

"Just—a distraction?" Baki asked, wanting to confirm.

"Exactly." Black Zetsu nodded. "But—this is a transaction. What does Baki want in return?"

"I want the Fourth Kazekage dead," Baki said without hesitation.

"Interesting. May I ask why?"

"Because—he's holding Sunagakure back. He—deserves to die."

"The Fourth Kazekage will be attending the trade route ceremony." Baki's voice was cold.

The current state of Sunagakure—it was humiliating.

A mere trade route opening, and Konoha had only sent an elder. Sunagakure? The Kazekage himself.

It was as if they were a subordinate village.

"So—you want us to eliminate both a Konoha elder and the Kazekage at the same ceremony. That's—challenging. And you know Sasori's history. Asking him to eliminate Sunagakure's leader—isn't that a bit—cruel?"

Baki frowned. "Are you—backing out?"

"No. Killing one is the same as killing two. But—the difficulty has increased. So—we'll need more—incentive."

"Money? Sunagakure doesn't have that kind of money."

"Then—become the Fifth Kazekage. And provide the Akatsuki with—resources. Chakra metal, explosive tags—whatever you can spare. We'll—assist you. If there are any—obstacles in your way, just give us their names." Black Zetsu revealed his true objective.

The Akatsuki had been hiding in Amegakure long enough. It was time to—re-emerge.

Konoha had become increasingly active lately.

Since Fugaku Uchiha awakened his Mangekyō Sharingan, Black Zetsu had sensed a shift in the ninja world's power balance.

Kirigakure was practically Konoha's vassal state. Sunagakure, bordering Amegakure, couldn't be allowed to fall under Konoha's influence.

The Konoha-Suna Trade Route, a project unheard of for centuries, was about to be completed.

The ninja world was changing.

Konoha, it seemed, intended to—conquer it all. If they were allowed to continue unchecked, consolidating the ninja world's power—it would be a problem.

The flow of power ebbed and flowed. A unified ninja world—Black Zetsu might have to wait another lifetime for his plans to bear fruit.

He had to—stir things up. Create chaos. And Sunagakure…

That village, which had instigated three Shinobi World Wars, was the perfect pawn.

But the Fourth Kazekage, Rasa, was too—passive, too content with Konoha's scraps. He was difficult to manipulate.

So, Black Zetsu had set his sights on Baki, the leader of the War Hawks.

A greedy, ambitious warmonger who hated Konoha. The perfect Kazekage for his plans.

Baki's eyes gleamed. "Fifth Kazekage—an attractive offer. I accept."

"Then, we'll see you at the ceremony, Baki."

Black Zetsu's body sank into the sand.

Baki didn't even watch him go. His mind was already racing, plotting his future as Kazekage, his policies against Konoha…

No, that was premature.

First, he had to eliminate Rasa. And even then, becoming Kazekage wasn't guaranteed.

Sunagakure, though lacking Kirigakure's—unconventional power structure, still valued seniority.

Chiyo and Ebizo. Though elderly, Chiyo was still Suna's greatest puppeteer. And Ebizo, though semi-retired, still maintained a vast intelligence network.

To become Kazekage, he needed their support.

And he knew how to get it. Sasori.

Whether by retrieving a token, delivering intel, capturing him alive, or—bringing back his head.

And then, there was Kosaka Kaoru and the other elders—But that was easy. He controlled Sunagakure's military. No matter Kosaka's political maneuvering, he'd bow to Baki's strength.

Elder support, political rivals eliminated. Two steps completed. As for the third…

"The One-Tail's power is wasted on that old fool, Bunpuku. We need a new jinchuriki, to unleash Shukaku's power. Only then can Sunagakure reclaim its rightful place in the ninja world."

"Once these three steps are complete, I will become Kazekage, and Sunagakure will rise to the top!"

Baki turned to his—subordinates.

"Hmph, that arrogant Konoha—Once I'm Kazekage, I'll make their ambassador kneel and apologize under the Suna banner!"

"Heh heh heh…"

…

…

"The Raikage has agreed to our terms!"

Samui's message reached Gojo Kaigetsu, interrupting his—activities. He quickly—disengaged.

After carrying a limp Samui to the bathroom and cleaning up, he changed his clothes and rushed to the Hokage Tower.

"It's happening in three days."

Minato immediately summoned the village leadership.

A large map of the Land of Lightning was spread across the table.

"The primary objective isn't war with Kumogakure, but rather a symbolic show of force. We'll target a few insignificant border towns and Co-Prosperity Sphere members, applying pressure on the Raikage, giving him the authority to deal with the Elder Council," Minato explained. "The question is—which towns and villages?"

Kumogakure's current situation was—complicated. Like a powerful, yet vulnerable, figure forced to compromise.

Aside from a few non-negotiables, they were willing to—cede control.

So, Konoha's—demands were:

Gojo Kaigetsu, picking up a pen, circled several locations on the map.

"The Land of Rice Paddies—and three border towns?"

Minato gasped. That was—a lot. He was essentially cutting off Kumogakure's access to the western ninja world.

"The Land of Rice Paddies has a strategic location, rich in—resources. Bananas, pineapples, cocoa beans, coffee beans—It's known as the 'Fruit Basket of the Ninja World.'"

"Not just fruit, but other valuable crops essential for Konoha's development."

"Normally, we wouldn't target a neutral nation. But they foolishly joined the Co-Prosperity Sphere and allowed Kumogakure to establish a military presence there. Though not as significant as Kusagakure, it still poses a threat. We'll—eliminate it."

Cocoa beans, coffee beans. Essential ingredients for Konoha's booming new commercial district, but scarce within the Land of Fire.

Due to limited supply, the Hokage Tower's new cafes and dessert shops were constantly sold out.

Countless ninja, their pockets full of cash, craved these new treats.

Chocolate, bitter yet sweet, though not exactly chakra-restorative, was compact and high in calories, a perfect addition to a ninja's rations. And ninjas, like steam engines, needed fuel.

Gojo Kaigetsu had even commissioned the Akimichi clan to develop a chocolate-flavored Soldier Pill. The potential profits were—unimaginable.

And then, there was coffee.

Ninjas, despite their enhanced endurance, still needed sleep. Though they could push their limits, it came at a cost.

And coffee—it worked wonders, especially for those dedicated to training.

If Orochimaru, holed up in his lab, had access to coffee, he might only need an hour of sleep, maximizing his research efficiency.

Occupying the Land of Rice Paddies would solve Konoha's chocolate and coffee shortage.

They could even lower prices, making them available to everyone, not just Konoha citizens and VIPs. Imagine—tourists taking photos with "Missing You at the Coffee Shop" signs.

"The Land of Rice Paddies also has a—thriving—ninja—industry. Though they lack a Hidden Village, their independent ninja are quite skilled. We can establish a Konoha military base there, a gateway to Kumogakure. And a new training ground, a Summer Camp location for the Academy. Perhaps even—a Konoha Ninja Academy middle school, focused on practical training, open only to exceptional academy graduates with Chunin potential. It would alleviate the pressure on Konoha's Genin while providing the village with high-quality ninja…" Gojo Kaigetsu's voice trailed off, lost in thought.

But no one minded his rambling. He'd painted an enticing picture of future prosperity, and they were captivated.

They were Konoha's elite, after all. They knew the value of coffee and chocolate.

Having tasted luxury, they craved more. After years of hardship, they were ready to enjoy the fruits of their labor.

"As for the border towns…"

"I anticipate the following benefits:"

"In conjunction with Kirigakure, we can blockade Kumogakure's land and sea routes, isolating them, weakening their control over the Co-Prosperity Sphere, disrupting their trade, and exacerbating their internal conflicts."

"With Kumogakure's borders open, Konoha's goods can flow freely into the Land of Lightning."

Gojo Kaigetsu drew two lines on the map.

The three border towns wouldn't completely seal off Kumogakure. Even if they wanted to, Konoha lacked the manpower.

But it would disrupt trade and travel, hindering Kumogakure's development.

Three Konoha-controlled towns at their border? Who wouldn't be wary?

Konoha couldn't launch a full-scale invasion yet; that would only unite Kumogakure.

And if, later, the Raikage tried to reclaim the towns—he'd have to choose between losing territory and losing—face.

Kumogakure was bordered by Kirigakure and the open sea. Crossing the sea meant invading Iwagakure, but they lacked the naval power.

With their land and sea routes blocked, they'd have to establish a new port in the Land of Frost.

The two lines Gojo Kaigetsu drew were like shackles, binding Kumogakure, limiting its growth.

"The Land of Rice Paddies—that's one thing. But the border towns—the Raikage's reaction will be—intense," Minato said cautiously.

"Naturally. That's why we'll announce different targets and then launch a blitz. The Raikage will likely assume it's a—misunderstanding."

"We'll eventually return the towns, of course. But we can use the excuse of maintaining order, preventing unrest, assisting the Raikage—stalling for time. The longer we hold them, the better."

"By the time he realizes it, it'll be too late. He'll be forced to focus on his internal struggles before dealing with Konoha."

"There's no possibility of true peace with Kumogakure. We can use any means necessary. There's no need for—niceties."

"Which means—we'll have to—tarnish your reputation a bit, Minato." Gojo Kaigetsu's voice was tinged with—mock regret.

The Raikage had only agreed to Konoha's "symbolic attack" because of Minato's reputation, his perceived trustworthiness, and that—letter.

And where did Minato's reputation come from? From giving the A-B Combo a chance to shine?

If Ōnoki had tried this…

The Raikage would have mobilized his forces and waited.

This tactic could only be used once. And afterward, the enraged Raikage would likely reveal Minato's letter, shattering his reputation.

Even the Nara clan's best strategies couldn't repair that kind of damage.

If even Minato Namikaze couldn't be trusted, who could? The ninja world would descend into chaos.

But history was written by the victors. He'd gamble on his friend's reputation. They had to win this war.

"For Konoha, my reputation is a small price to pay," Minato said solemnly.

"Good! Now that we've settled on the strategy, let's assign the teams."

Gojo Kaigetsu began placing miniature figurines on the map. "Fugaku Uchiha will lead the White Fang unit—Hyuga Hiashi, the newly reorganized Hyuga division…"

…

…

"Elder Advisor, the Raikage requests your presence."

"A? Now? Why?"

Elder Advisor, leaning heavily on his staff, was escorted by two of his most trusted guards to the Raikage's office.

Since the Elder Council had assumed control, the Raikage's office had been—neglected. Dust had even settled on the floor.

Elder Advisor's eyes flickered. He felt a twinge of—sympathy for A. After all, he'd watched the boy grow up. It was this connection that had led the Third Raikage to appoint him as A's advisor.

But he quickly hardened his heart.

Everything he did was for Kumogakure.

His conscience—it didn't matter. He'd earned the right to—indulge his whims.

"You two, wait here." Atsui, the Raikage's confidant, blocked the guards.

Elder Advisor tapped his staff. "They're my personal guards."

"The Raikage's orders. This is a confidential meeting. No outsiders allowed," Atsui said, his face impassive.

"Confidential?" Though puzzled, Elder Advisor trusted A and dismissed his guards.

"Yes, Elder Advisor," they replied, bowing.

Creak—

Elder Advisor opened the door, as if entering—the gates of hell.

Atsui followed him inside, closing the door and taking his position beside the Raikage.

Two muffled thuds echoed from the hallway, unnoticed by Elder Advisor.

The Raikage's office was dimly lit.

A sat at his desk, his arms crossed, his gaze fixed on Elder Advisor.

"Kneel!" Atsui roared.

"What?!" Elder Advisor's eyes widened in shock. He instinctively tried to open the door, but it wouldn't budge.

His heart sank. But he maintained his composure, a sneer curving his lips. "I've knelt before the Third Raikage my entire life. I expect the Fourth to—excuse me."

"Eguchi! You've abused your power, undermined the Raikage, and exploited the village for personal gain! Your crimes are unforgivable!"

"Anbu! Seize him!"

Crash—

Six Anbu operatives, bursting through the windows, surrounded Elder Advisor.

They were all personally chosen by A, civilian-born ninja with unwavering loyalty.

Elder Advisor, despite being surrounded, remained calm. "A, you've grown. You dare challenge me now?"

"You've forced my hand, Elder Advisor."

"I don't want to kill you. Surrender, and you can—atone for your crimes. Once Kumogakure unites the ninja world, I'll release you."

A's face was grim, his muscles twitching.

He didn't want to kill his adoptive father.

If Elder Advisor surrendered, relinquished his power, and accepted imprisonment—it would be the best outcome.

But if he resisted…

"Kill me?!" Elder Advisor's voice rose, as if he'd heard a joke. He began to reminisce, recounting his past glories.

"At twenty, I witnessed the Gold and Silver Brothers' rebellion. I fought alongside the Third Raikage to quell it. And to this day, I've never relaxed my vigilance against the southern territories…"

"I was born in Kumogakure's first year! At eighteen, I earned the title of Kumogakure's Strongest! I served under three Raikage!"

"I am a three-time veteran! I've witnessed three Raikage rise and fall, and I've remained!"

"If you think I'm easily eliminated, A—try me."

He tossed his staff aside and formed a single hand seal. "Ninja Art: Libra Release – Unseal!"

His aura surged.

The frail old man transformed, his body radiating power, the aura of Kumogakure's Strongest returning.

Though his muscles remained wiry, no one dared underestimate him now. Not even A.

"The Libra Release—Father once said you were already old when he was a child. So, this is your secret." A's expression turned serious.

Traditional Kumogakure ninja trained their muscles, focusing on brute strength and Lightning Release. Their physical prowess and taijutsu were unmatched.

But the Libra Release—it was different. It involved suppressing one's physical appearance, Enhancing internal strength. It required years of suppressing one's chakra, making the user appear older than they were.

Releasing the Libra Release enhanced speed, agility, and resilience, even granting a form of damage reduction against taijutsu.

A couldn't gauge Elder Advisor's true strength now. But it was at least elite Jonin level.

"It's been a long time since I've—stretched these old bones. I hope they still work." Elder Advisor cracked his knuckles. He raised his hand, three fingers extended, blue chakra crackling around them. "Hell Thrust: Two-Fingered Lance Hand!"

"Lightning Release: Lightning Armor!" Blue chakra enveloped A, his blond hair standing on end.

"So, Elder Advisor, you intend to challenge my strength with ninjutsu."

"A, you misunderstand. You are the one challenging me."

"Not ninjutsu versus strength, but strength versus ninjutsu. You are the challenger."

Kumogakure's internal conflict was about to erupt.

The six Anbu operatives retreated, forming hand seals and slamming their palms onto the floor.

"Lightning Release: Lightning Prison Jutsu!"

Their orders were simple: if Elder Advisor surrendered, imprison him. If he resisted, contain the fight.

This battle—wasn't for them.

Atsui, his arms crossed, stared in awe. "Elder Advisor's using the Third Raikage's Hell Thrust, and the Raikage's using his perfected Lightning Armor—This is—incredible! Even if I die witnessing this, it will be worth it!"

"They're moving! Elder Advisor's attacking!"

Elder Advisor lunged, his Two-Fingered Lance Hand aimed at A.

A's eyes narrowed. He instinctively recoiled, remembering the Hell Thrust's power.

"Are you—afraid of this old man's attacks?" Elder Advisor taunted.

"Heh, let's see what you've got!" A abandoned his evasive maneuvers, his body lowering into a defensive stance, his elbow raised. "Lariat!"

A, his body crackling with Lightning Release chakra, charged.

The two forces collided.

The Hell Thrust pierced A's Lightning Armor, drawing blood. But the force of A's elbow sent Elder Advisor flying, crashing into the Lightning Prison barrier.

It seemed A had the upper hand, but…

He clutched his bleeding abdomen, while Elder Advisor, seemingly unharmed, casually dusted himself off.

"Chakra absorption—he's absorbing the impact!" Atsui exclaimed. "This is bad!"

A stared at him, his eyes narrowed. He'd underestimated Elder Advisor.

"Despite your age, your Libra training has—enhanced your abilities. In twenty, thirty years, I wouldn't be a match for you."

"But now…"

"The bonds of brotherhood surpass all!"

"Killer B! Now! Lightning Release: Ultimate Lariat!"

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