Chapter 228: Chapter 229: The Agenda
Chapter 229: The Agenda
As discussions deepened, representatives from various countries began proposing more concrete suggestions and plans.
The topics revolved around how to share resources and knowledge to foster the overall development of the ninja world and how to establish closer cooperation to resolve potential conflicts.
One delegate suggested the creation of an international ninja education and training center to enhance the skills and knowledge of all ninja, particularly those from smaller nations.
Another emphasized the importance of strengthening intelligence-sharing to prevent misunderstandings and unnecessary conflicts, proposing the establishment of a dedicated intelligence exchange platform for all nations to share information and tackle potential threats together.
Onoki, the Third Tsuchikage, took the opportunity to present an economic cooperation plan. He proposed forming a trade alliance and economic cooperation organization to promote economic growth among the nations, reducing disputes over resource allocation.
…
Various topics were discussed, with some proposals accepted and others rejected. Many debates grew heated, with representatives arguing passionately for their nations' interests.
This first summit, built on the foundation of a united ninja world, was marked by unprecedented progress. The atmosphere was one of cautious optimism, as delegates expressed their shared longing for peace.
But as key topics were addressed, certain unavoidable issues loomed large.
The leader of Takigakure, the Hidden Waterfall Village, stood up, drawing the attention of the assembly. His sharp gaze landed on Tsunade.
"I've heard that the Seven-Tails is currently in Hyuga Fuji's hands. Is that true?"
Tsunade's previously relaxed demeanor shifted to one of gravity. She locked eyes with him and nodded. "That's correct."
"Then what does the Fire Country plan to do about this dangerous rogue ninja? It seems he's been wreaking havoc in the Land of Wind with impunity."
Tsunade's tone remained calm as she replied, "Addressing him is indeed one of the key priorities of this meeting." She turned to Shizune, who stood ready in the corner.
"Please distribute the information we've prepared."
Shizune stepped forward, bowing respectfully to the delegates before handing out detailed files to each of them.
The representatives eagerly opened the documents, their curiosity piqued.
While they were aware that Hyuga Fuji posed a significant threat, the specifics of his actions and abilities had remained murky. This dossier promised to shed light on his true capabilities.
As they read, the atmosphere in the hall grew increasingly tense. The files meticulously outlined Hyuga Fuji's movements, his abilities, and the devastation he had wrought.
"Resurrection of the dead?"
The daimyo of the Land of Hot Water swallowed hard, his hands trembling as he looked up at Tsunade. "Is this true? Has Hyuga Fuji truly mastered the forbidden art of resurrection?"
His gaze lingered on the section detailing the Edo Tensei (Reanimation Jutsu).
As a daimyo, he had limited knowledge of advanced ninja techniques. But the concept of reviving and controlling the dead was so chillingly straightforward that even a layperson could grasp its implications.
Many other delegates, especially those from smaller nations, were equally shocked. They were only just now learning about this terrifying jutsu, their ignorance stemming from years spent focusing solely on their internal affairs.
Tsunade sighed. "It's true. Edo Tensei is a forbidden technique developed by the Second Hokage. Its authenticity is beyond question."
The leader of Takigakure frowned deeply. "The Second Hokage truly was a genius of unparalleled talent. But does the Fire Country have any means to counteract this technique?"
"Sealing techniques are the only effective counter to Edo Tensei," Tsunade explained. "We have developed a specialized sealing talisman. Anyone can use it—so long as they can overpower the reanimated ninja, they can seal them away."
"I've heard that the sealing talisman is one of Hyuga Fuji's creations. Are we really going to rely on his technology to fight against him?" Onoki interjected, his skepticism evident.
Tsunade's patience wore thin, her brow furrowing. If she didn't know better, she might have thought Onoki was mocking the Fire Country.
"So, does the esteemed Tsuchikage have a better solution to propose?" she retorted coldly.
"I merely find it inappropriate to use the enemy's own tools against him," Onoki said, though his tone lacked conviction.
"Unless you can provide a superior alternative, I suggest you hold your tongue," Tsunade snapped, her gaze icy.
"Edo Tensei manipulates the soul itself. Sealing techniques are the most effective counter, but their complexity makes them difficult to teach on a large scale. The sealing talisman is the best option we have. Focusing on superficial concerns like pride is not the mark of a true leader."
Onoki averted his gaze, his expression unreadable. He stared at the chandelier above, as though admiring the rapid progress of ninja world technology, and said nothing more.
"So, is it fair to say that the primary reason for this summit is Hyuga Fuji?" the Takigakure leader asked, his voice tinged with both relief and frustration. "If that's the case, I'm willing to offer my village's unique resources in exchange for assistance in reclaiming the Seven-Tails."
"Unique resources?"
Tsunade's eyes narrowed as she considered his words. She recalled the intelligence reports on Takigakure.
The ninja world was home to various substances with unique properties. Some could grant immense chakra reserves, albeit at great cost.
One such substance, found in Takigakure, was the Hero Water—a liquid that temporarily boosted chakra at the expense of the user's lifespan.
Tsunade fell silent for a moment, weighing the implications.
While the Hero Water was undoubtedly valuable, reclaiming the Seven-Tails…
"Apologies, but that is beyond our capabilities," she said firmly. "While Hyuga Fuji is indeed one of the reasons for this summit, the information provided may have led to some misunderstandings."
She exchanged a glance with the Fourth Raikage and Onoki before continuing.
Onoki was the first to speak. "As of now, we've confirmed that Hyuga Fuji has reanimated several formidable ninja from the Land of Earth, including the Second Tsuchikage and Mu."
The Fourth Raikage added, "He's also brought back several powerful figures from the Land of Lightning."
Tsunade listed a number of renowned ninja from the Fire Country, finishing with a name that caused several delegates to visibly flinch.
"Hatake Sakumo, also known as the White Fang, and Aburame Shikuro."
The weight of these names settled heavily over the room.
Tsunade fixed her gaze on the Takigakure leader, whose face had gone pale.
"The balance of power is overwhelmingly in his favor," she said. "Offense lies entirely in his hands."
She could have withheld this information to maintain the Fire Country's image of dominance. But the delegates would inevitably learn the truth. Better to address it now, maintaining credibility and steering the conversation toward unity against a common threat.
(End of Chapter)