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Why did the shinobi from Iwagakure choose this particular moment to arrive? Just as Advisor Mubuki had shared the news about the tense atmosphere in the shinobi world, the sudden appearance of the Iwagakure shinobi couldn't be a mere coincidence. Their visit must hold significant purpose.
While the Land of Grass took pride in its development, it was well aware of its limitations compared to Iwagakure, one of the Five Great Shinobi Villages. Besides information exchange and matters related to war alliances, the Land of Grass couldn't offer much assistance. Surely, Iwagakure didn't come all this way for an unrelated reason like filming a movie.
Without a doubt, those Iwagakure shinobi were likely here to seek the cooperation of the Grass shinobi in launching an attack on Konoha. However, that assumption severely underestimated the integrity of the Grass shinobi.
It should be noted that the Land of Grass was currently allied with Konoha. To expect the Grass shinobi to readily comply with a direct and swift request to attack Konoha was highly unrealistic. Did the Iwagakure shinobi believe that the Grass shinobi had no self-respect?
But since they had already arrived, Akihiko stepped forward with a warm smile, leading the Grass shinobi who had just concluded their meeting to meet the Iwagakure shinobi. He greeted them warmly, saying, "Welcome, esteemed friends from Iwagakure!"
"Leader of Kusagakure!" A burly shinobi from Iwagakure, distinguished by his red ninja hat, rugged appearance with stubble on his chin, and muscular build, stepped forward and offered a respectful salute. "Please accept my apologies for this intrusion!"
As an exceptional Jonin from Iwagakure, he maintained an unwavering demeanor, representing his village's interests in seeking "cooperation" with the Grass shinobi, not in search of enemies. Moreover, the young man standing before him was not only the leader of the Grass shinobi village but also a prominent figure in the Land of Grass. It was imperative to show the necessary respect.
Furthermore, to achieve such impressive development and rebuild the Land of Grass within a few years, the Grass shinobi leader standing before him was undoubtedly an extraordinary ninja.
"I am Kitsuchi, the team leader visiting the Grass shinobi village," the burly Iwagakure shinobi introduced himself to Akihiko.
"I am Akihiko Kusano, leader of the Land of Grass," Akihiko responded, formally introducing himself along with the senior members of the Grass shinobi. "Welcome to the Land of Grass!"
Just as Akihiko finished speaking, observing that the Grass shinobi leader appeared approachable, Kurotsuchi felt a sense of relief. After hesitating for a moment, he proceeded to speak openly, "In fact, the Tsuchikage has instructed us to come here because there is a matter of great importance that needs to be discussed with Leader Kusano..." but before he could complete his sentence.
Before Kitsuchi could complete his sentence, Akihiko let out a laugh and warmly patted Kitsuchi's shoulder. "Dear friends who have traveled a long way, how can we not offer you some rest? It would be impolite of us, the Grass shinobi village, to do otherwise."
"No need to worry! Actually, Iwagakure and the Grass shinobi village..." Kitsuchi shook his head, attempting to continue the conversation, but once again, he was interrupted.
"We won't delve into that! We won't delve into that!" Akihiko interrupted him directly, maintaining his friendly smile. "The Land of Grass has long held admiration for the Land of Earth, one of the Five Great Nations. It possesses a formidable military, and I have heard tales of the Third Tsuchikage being the most powerful Tsuchikage in history, with ninjutsu that dominates the shinobi world, capable of making anyone disappear at will..."
"Leader Kusano, you flatter us too much!" Kitsuchi waved his hand dismissively, although inwardly he was surprised by Akihiko's talkative nature.
"Where's the flattery? Who in the entire shinobi world isn't aware of the Third Tsuchikage's might? Under his protection, Iwagakure has flourished, and the happiness index of both shinobi and citizens has skyrocketed. The ninjas and people of Iwagakure all say that happiness arrived when the Third Tsuchikage ascended to the position!"
Kitsuchi stared at Akihiko in disbelief, and his subordinates mirrored his dumbfounded expression. The continuous stream of words from the Grass shinobi leader rendered them speechless, unable to interject.
With a persistent smile, the leader of the Grass shinobi proceeded, "As you have graced us with your presence today~" His eyes met theirs, still gleaming with warmth. "I kindly request you to assess the shortcomings of the Land of Grass and provide guidance on areas where our village can improve! Your valuable insight will contribute to enhancing the quality of our Grass shinobi!"
"I..." Kitsuchi attempted to say something, but before he could utter a word...
"Mubuki! Mubuki! Comrade Mubuki!" Akihiko called out to a seemingly absent-minded shinobi standing behind him. "I have some urgent matters to attend to. I'll entrust these esteemed guests to your capable hands!"
"Understood, Leader!" Mubuki nodded, acknowledging Akihiko's instructions.
They appeared to be perfectly coordinated, and Kitsuchi, sensing Mubuki's response and the Grass shinobi leader's inclination to leave, quickly interjected, "Leader Kusano, we have arrived with a matter of utmost significance concerning the peace of the shinobi world..."
"If there is something, you may discuss it with Mubuki!" Akihiko responded with a hint of urgency. "I apologize! As the leader of the Land of Grass and Grass Shinobi Village, there are numerous pressing matters that require my personal attention. I apologize for the lack of hospitality!"
With that, as if genuinely engaged in an urgent affair, he led the other high-ranking members away, leaving behind a disheartened Kitsuchi watching their departure.
At that instant, as a high-ranking member of Iwagakure, Kitsuchi deduced that the Kusagakure leader in front of him had no intention of involving themselves in their discussion. It seemed that the Grass Shinobi Village had already anticipated the purpose of Iwa-nin's visit. However, what was the reason for their refusal? Could it be because of the Grass shinobi's alliance with Konoha? Such an idea would be absurd! Even novice shinobi students would dismiss such notions! Or perhaps they were underestimating the terms proposed by Iwagakure?
Yet, they hadn't even presented their conditions yet! Could it be that the new leader of the Grass shinobi village was genuinely a person of unwavering principles, fiercely loyal to Konoha? As Kitsuchi and his subordinates remained silent, their faces revealing hints of frustration and anger.
"Welcome, esteemed guests! Please accept my sincerest apologies for our leader's busy schedule and any perceived lack of hospitality," Mubuki cheerfully addressed the Iwa-nin, seemingly oblivious to their underlying anger. "Rest assured, going forward, I, Mubuki, the Senior Advisor of the Grass shinobi, will personally ensure your well-being and comfort."
As Mubuki's words resonated in the air, the other Iwa-nin swiftly regained their focus, raising their heads to gaze at team leader Kitsuchi. They found themselves hesitating, unsure of how to proceed in this unexpected turn of events. With a sense of uncertainty, one of the Iwa-nin spoke up, addressing Kitsuchi, "Captain Kitsuchi.."
Kitsuchi's gaze also wandered to the Grass shinobi who had stayed behind—Mubuki, the esteemed Senior Advisor of the Grass Shinobi Village. It became evident that Mubuki held a significant position within the village.
If the Grass Shinobi Village was truly rejecting Iwa-nin's proposal, what did it signify at this moment? After a brief contemplation, a faint smile appeared on Kitsuchi's round face. "Then, I will place my trust in you, Mr. Mubuki!"
"No trouble at all! Actually, there isn't much to see in the Land of Grass!" Mubuki responded with a smile, leaving the Iwa-nin momentarily speechless.
"Now, where should we venture next?" Mubuki furrowed his brows as if pondering, directing his gaze towards the Iwa-nin before him. He understood the intentions of his leader.
While the Grass Shinobi Village indeed enjoyed a favorable relationship with Konoha, what did that have to do with their ties to Iwagakure? The friendships of the Grass shinobi couldn't be dictated solely by Konoha!
However, the leader had tasked Mubuki with exploring potential benefits from Iwagakure. After a brief moment, just as impatience began to arise among the Iwa-nin, Mubuki's face lit up with an idea. "Ah, I have it! Let us visit our very own academy in the Land of Grass!" He beamed at the Iwa-nin before him. "It is our esteemed ninja academy, proudly established within the Land of Grass!"
…
Meanwhile, on the other side, Akihiko sat in his office, fully engrossed in reviewing the information regarding the group of Iwa-nin in front of him. After carefully considering the details, he lifted his gaze to meet Takeshi Chinoike's eyes and greeted him with a warm smile. "Make sure Mubuki maintains a high level of vigilance, and..." Akihiko paused briefly, collecting his thoughts. "Notify the other departments to provide complete cooperation and support to Mubuki's endeavors." With his statement concluded, Akihiko awaited Takeshi's acknowledgment.
"Understood," Takeshi responded, nodding in agreement.
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