Naruto: Wooing Tsunade from Day One!-Chapter 366: The Start of a New School Term
Chapter 366 - 366: The Start of a New School Term
The great battle in the Akatsukigakure had only just passed, yet Nagato's name had already spread across the entire ninja world.
His meteoric rise to the pinnacle of power was undeniable—his near-invincible presence in battle left no one daring to claim they could defeat him. One victory had cemented his place as a legend.
In the aftermath, Konan and Kakuzu were also thrust into the spotlight. Dubbed the "Immortal Kakuzu" and the "Angel Konan," their names now appeared on the priority watch lists of every major ninja village. Their notoriety added another layer of prestige—and fear—to Akatsukigakure's growing influence.
Yahiko, who had not intervened in the battle, was unexpectedly elevated to godlike status in the public's imagination. Some even went so far as to claim Yahiko's strength surpassed Kawakaze's. While these rumors were likely intended to sow discord, Yahiko didn't mind. In fact, he found the idea amusing. Kawakaze was his Sensei; there was no chance of enmity between them. For Akatsukigakure, these rumors only served to enhance its mystique and consolidate its position.
Meanwhile, Tsunade returned to Konohagakure under a cloud of unfavorable reputation. Accusations of bullying the weak circulated, and the sting of her defeat added insult to injury. Furious and humiliated, she seriously considered declaring war on the Land of Rain. However, the combined efforts of Konoha's leadership prevented her from acting rashly. Without sufficient justification, Tsunade could not launch a war driven by personal grievances.
Kawakaze's level-headedness ultimately diffused the situation further. Understanding the broader implications of conflict, he refrained from intervening or taking Tsunade's side, even when her anger flared. His restraint likely prevented an escalation no one could control, even Konoha's leaders.
The incident caused a significant stir throughout the Ninja World. Though things eventually settled down, whispers persisted. Rumors circulated that Tsunade and Kawakaze had been in a prolonged cold war, even avoiding each other's company. Some gossips went so far as to suggest they had not shared a bed since the conflict. Such claims, however, were dismissed by many as baseless speculation.
In the meantime, Akatsukigakure welcomed emissaries from Iwagakure and Sunagakure. This time, the attitude of the two great villages was markedly different. Their arrogance was gone, replaced by politeness and respect. Not only did they drop any demands for a share of Akatsukigakure's resources, but they also expressed interest in forging deep cooperation. Kawakaze's approach had worked.
"It's really gratifying," Konan exclaimed with joy after escorting the Sunagakure emissary out. Her delight at seeing the once-haughty envoy humbled was unmistakable.
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"Strength is the way of the world," Yahiko remarked, a faint smirk on his lips as he recalled the Sunagakure emissary's submissive demeanor.
"Sensei was right—they're all cowards who prey on the weak," Nonō said, her thoughts drifting to Tsunade's parting words: "When you need to show your strength, don't hesitate."
The reality of the Ninja World remained unchanged—strength dictated respect, and the strong ruled over the weak.
"Next, we can finally live a peaceful life."
Nagato's faint smile hinted at his good mood, the respect from the emissary of Sunagakure clearly having pleased him.
"Hmph, they know when to be submissive," Kakuzu muttered, already calculating his next move. If Kawakaze's trick failed, he was prepared to approach the two major ninja villages directly. Let's see if they value money or their lives more, he thought darkly.
"That's enough. The problem is solved," Yahiko interjected firmly. "But we can't let our guard down. We need to be vigilant in every way."
Despite their recent success, Yahiko maintained his composure. He knew Akatsukigakure, a small nation with a fledgling ninja village, couldn't afford overconfidence.
"Don't worry. I've already given instructions," Nonō reassured him. "I'll know if anything happens."
Modeled after Hanzō of the Salamander, Nonō had established a network of spies from Akatsukigakure across the ninja world within a year.
"I can trust you to get things done," Yahiko said with evident relief. Nonō's foresight and efficiency had saved them countless times. He often marveled at Nagato's ability to choose exceptional people.
As his eyes shifted to Konan, Yahiko couldn't suppress a bitter laugh. You have to spoil the ones you love, he thought wryly.
"What's that look in your eyes?" Konan snapped, her sharp instincts catching his moment of distraction.
"Huh? Nothing," Yahiko stammered, flustered. "I was just looking at you."
"Hmph, you think I believe that?" she retorted, her glare piercing. "Just wait—you'll see."
With that, she turned her head sharply, refusing to look at him again. If you don't learn your lesson, you'll never understand how great Lady Konan is, she thought to herself.
"Hahaha~" Kakuzu's rare laughter rang out as he watched Yahiko scratch his head in awkward defeat. Spending time with these younger ninjas had unexpectedly softened his hard edges.
"Alright, there's nothing more to do here," Yahiko said quickly, eager to change the subject. "Let's go out for a drink to celebrate."
"Sure," the group agreed in unison—except for Konan, who remained silent, her expression unreadable.
"Let's go then."
Yahiko knew Konan wouldn't refuse, so he stood and left without waiting for her response. The five of them headed straight to the most luxurious restaurant in Akatsukigakure, indulging in a grand feast and drinking to their hearts' content.
On the way back, Yahiko, still semi-conscious from the drinks, thought he had escaped trouble for the night. What he didn't realize was that he would still get a beating before he could finally rest.
"Sensei was right. It's hard to raise women and petty people," Yahiko muttered with his eyes closed, lying on the bed in a mix of exhaustion and indignation. Despite his grumbles, he fell asleep with a sweet smile. The pressing problem had been resolved, and Akatsukigakure was entering a phase of rapid development.
With a steady stream of funds, they built an elite army, pushing the military power of the Land of Rain to unprecedented heights. Economically and militarily, the nation was far ahead of the days of the Demi-God.
Another year passed in the blink of an eye. Outside of occasional skirmishes between smaller ninja villages, the Ninja World remained relatively peaceful. Konoha continued to thrive, firmly holding its position as the number one village in the Ninja World.
Last year, Kakashi was the first to enter the advanced class with exceptional results. This year, others, including Guy, had also risen to the challenge. Since Kawakaze established the advanced class, it had produced a steady flow of outstanding ninjas for Konoha, elevating the standards year after year. Entering the advanced class had become the dream of every child at the Ninja Academy.
Kakashi and the other four were now the envy of their peers, their achievements serving as an inspiration to the younger generation.
Today marked the annual recruitment day at the Konoha Ninja Academy. Early in the morning, Tsunade urged Kawakaze awake.
"Take care of Ginji. I'll sleep a bit more," she murmured, pulling the quilt over herself as she drifted back to sleep.
Kawakaze, rubbing his tired eyes, mumbled, "I know." He was exhausted too. Last night's "battle"—though unrelated to ninja combat—had left them both drained.
Mechanically dressing, Kawakaze washed up and headed to the dining room, where his mind finally began to clear.
"Morning, Dad," greeted Ginji, his five-year-old son, sitting obediently next to Kakashi, who was preparing for the day as well.
"Morning," Kawakaze replied, ruffling Ginji's hair before taking his seat at the table.
"Uncle, do I have to give a speech today?" Kakashi asked hesitantly. As the youngest student ever selected for the advanced class, he was slated to speak at the opening ceremony.
"Why wouldn't you? This is your well-deserved glory," Sakumo interjected before Kawakaze could respond, giving Kakashi a firm look.
Despite his high rank, Sakumo felt immense pride in his son's accomplishments. Why shouldn't I show off a little? My son is exceptional.
