Kain's mind was clear that morning, his thoughts drifting toward the larger picture of the ninja world's development. His and Orochimaru's goals were aligned in some ways, though their methods differed.
While Kain sought control over the civilian population, Orochimaru focused on dominating the ninja world.
Aya's ventures into industry continued to expand, while Miwa embraced advancements in media—transitioning from newspapers to radio, and soon to television and eventually the internet.
Kain had only one demand:
"In the future, there will be only one voice in the ninja world that can speak freely—and it will be mine."
Though Orochimaru might lack the patience to become Hokage, his alliance would at least shield Kain from interference from Konoha's powers. For now, Konoha remained strong, as evidenced by the fact that six of the twelve Guardian Ninjas were Konoha shinobi.
Thinking of the Fire Nation daimyo, Kain suddenly had an idea regarding Hatake Sakumo.
In this way, it seemed that all three parties would be satisfied—probably only Sarutobi Hiruzen would be unhappy.
However, if the Fire Nation daimyo was willing to cover Konoha's expenses, Sarutobi Hiruzen might agree.
Ding!
Just as Kain was lost in thought, the doorbell suddenly rang.
"Who's visiting so early?"
Kain cast an Iron Armor Curse on himself. The person at the door couldn't be someone he knew, like Tsunade or Kushina, who had developed the habit of simply walking in.
He walked to the door, opened it, and pretended not to recognize the visitor, asking, "Who are you looking for?"
"Hi, I'm Rin Nohara, a second-year student at the Ninja School. Are you the Propaganda Minister of the Land of Fire?"
The person at the door was Rin Nohara, whom Kain had imprinted with the magic spell. When she saw Kain, she saluted politely and then asked respectfully.
Kain nodded and said, "Yes, I am. Nohara Rin, you came here to..."
"Actually, it's about Hatake Kakashi. I met the president of the Konoha newspaper the other day, and I learned about Mr. Hatake from him."
Seeing that Kain was approachable, Rin began to explain. She also had some doubts in her heart. It was her first time meeting this minister-sama, yet she felt an odd sense of familiarity—as if she had known him for a long time.
"I see. I'm planning to visit Hatake's house today. You can go back to your studies without worry. This incident shouldn't affect Hatake Kakashi."
After listening to Rin's words, Kain replied. He couldn't help but sigh inwardly; people in the ninja world matured quickly, and love at the age of twelve or thirteen seemed like a normal thing.
"Well, sir, may I go with you?"
Rin was a little embarrassed. She felt she was making an overzealous request. Given the other party's status, it was rare for him to even agree to meet with her, let alone explain things.
Now, she was asking to go along with him. She wished she could take back her words and took half a step back.
"Okay. If you have time now, come with me."
Kain thought for a moment. Bringing Rin with him might make a bigger impression on Hatake Sakumo, so he agreed to her request.
He then closed the door and waved to the still-dazed Rin, signaling her to follow quickly.
Rin didn't have time to think and quickly trotted behind him, feeling thankful in her heart. She was relieved that minister-Sama was a talkative and kind person, much easier to approach than the village security team, and his demeanor made her feel strangely familiar.
"Mr. Hatake."
Kain and Nohara Rin arrived at Hatake's house, rang the doorbell a few times, but received no answer. They called out a few times, but still nothing.
"Is no one home?" Nohara Rin asked, speculating.
Kain shook his head and said, "Hatake Sakumo has been temporarily dismissed from his position. Where else would he be if he's not at home at this time?"
After waiting a little longer, and still receiving no response, Kain pushed open the unlocked door and walked inside.
Seeing this, Nohara Rin became anxious and thought, Is this really happening? If Kakashi found out they had trespassed, he would surely hate them.
"There's nothing we can do in a hurry. We don't intend to steal anything. We'll apologize once we get in," Kain reassured her.
With that, Kain entered the house. Nohara Rin hesitated for a moment, looking around outside, but curiosity and anxiety got the better of her. She tiptoed in behind Kain and closed the door once inside.
The two of them made their way to the living room next to the courtyard. Kain decided to search here first. If no one was present, they could return at another time.
After opening the door to the living room, Kain felt a little relieved. Hatake Sakumo was sitting at the round table, appearing to be lost in thought. Earlier, Kain had feared the worst, thinking that Hatake Sakumo might have committed suicide.
However, Hatake Sakumo didn't seem to be in the best state. Kain had seen him before when the barrier exploded. Even in the dark of night, Hatake Sakumo had been like a sharp blade, ready to strike at any enemy.
But now, he appeared like a dull knife. He couldn't even fathom taking someone's life; it would be too heavy to hold.
Kain walked over, sat down opposite Hatake Sakumo, and said with a sigh, "Mr. Hatake, what happened to Konoha's White Fang? How did you end up like this?"
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