Kakuzu's faith in Hinata was clearly growing.
What made him particularly wary was the unique chakra signature radiating from her current body—one he hadn't felt in decades, not since encountering that legendary shinobi from Konoha: the First Hokage himself.
"Hehehe... so what do you all say—should we help that daimyō 'ascend' a little sooner? That way, Suigin Tou could just inherit the whole country immediately."
Hidan, ever impatient, grinned as he twirled his scythe.
"Then I could have her declare Jashinism the national religion! Hah!"
"That's not going to happen," Itachi said flatly, arms crossed. "Suigin Tou only just made her public appearance. If the daimyō dies now, both the public and other nations would grow suspicious."
Pain gave a nod of agreement. "Indeed. These things must not be rushed. Besides, from what we've seen of Suigin Tou's ability, she'll have this nation under her full control even without removing the current daimyō. No need to be hasty."
"Cheh... how boring."
Hidan grumbled with a pout, clearly frustrated that things weren't moving fast enough for his taste.
---
"People of the Land of Waves, thank you for your support of my father. I share in your grief over the untimely passing of my dear brother. And so, I wish to do what I can for this land. I will be investing my personal savings to establish a new factory dedicated to producing figurines. Anyone with the skills is welcome to apply. I won't make grand promises—I'll simply do my best to create more jobs for everyone here."
Standing at the ceremonial shrine in the capital of the Land of Waves, Hinata spoke gently to the gathered crowd. Though her white hair and red eyes bore no resemblance to the daimyō, her words still stirred enthusiastic cheers. Jobs were scarce—especially now that their sea routes were cut off. With the economy in peril, her promise was a godsend.
"Hmm. More jobs, huh? Honestly, she might be more suited to rule this place than her father."
Blending into the crowd, Tazuna nodded in approval. As one of the few respected commoners, he welcomed the new princess's vow with optimism.
As for the purity of her bloodline—well, if the daimyō himself didn't care to mention it, why should the people?
"The factory construction begins today. Every citizen who contributes will have my deepest thanks and a place in the future of this factory. Once it's completed, rewards will be distributed based on effort and merit."
Hinata's tone was gentle, yet it sparked another wave of cheers. Without question, her first public appearance had left a highly favorable impression.
---
"Huh... So we don't even need to pay them anymore," Kakuzu muttered with amusement. Based on Hinata's speech, the entire factory build was going to be done by the citizens. And that part about compensation based on 'effort'?
Extremely flexible.
Those who worked hardest would likely be promoted into management, which meant no actual financial reward. Just responsibility.
"No wonder she wanted to be a princess. If I could save that much on startup costs, I'd crown myself royalty too."
Kisame chuckled, shaking his head. He had to admit—Hinata had a sharp mind for manipulating systems.
"Heh. Now that's more like it. Anyone qualified to work with the Akatsuki has to meet a certain standard."
Pain gave a slight nod. They had the funds, of course, but why spend it when the work could be done for free?
Watching the cheering citizens below the shrine, Hinata narrowed her pink-violet eyes, a look of smug satisfaction glinting within them.
This was a perfect start.
All that remained... was to ensure nothing else fell apart.
---
(TL: Applause for Suikyō-hime~ My darling~~)
---