Chapter 85

「Itachi Uchiha actually ended up together with Danzo？」

In Leaf Village, all kinds of ninjas hurriedly rushed toward the canyon at the edge of the village.

Many villagers had already climbed up to look into the distance, and they were each discussing whether something else had happened, causing such a big fire.

But the instigator, Yuzhi, was now sitting at home looking at the scroll in his hand, and he couldn't help but sink into contemplation.

His battle with Orochimaru this time had already ended, but the commotion they caused this time was somewhat large.

Without using various secret techniques, Orochimaru's combat power was greatly affected.

But Yuzhi likewise did not activate the Mangekyou Sharingan to go all out; the two were engaging in basic ninja combat.

However, this was already enough to satisfy Orochimaru's curiosity, and Orochimaru was obviously quite satisfied.

Therefore, in a clash of wind release and fire release, he deliberately increased the chakra data, causing Yuzhi's fire release to have a greater explosion.

Taking advantage of this situation, they also ended this round of probing and combat.

But Yuzhi hadn't expected that Orochimaru's interest in the Sharingan would come so early.

And he also didn't expect that Orochimaru would actually turn his gaze toward him, wanting to understand the Sharingan through him.

One could only say that Orochimaru is also a person who precisely steps on points.

Moreover, he never expected that Itachi Uchiha would, as if fated, end up together with Danzo.

「In the original work, Itachi Uchiha seemed to have been assigned to Danzo's command in the later part of the ANBU。」

Yuzhi's complexion looked somewhat strange; now that these two have prematurely teamed up, it makes him feel weird.

A person whose mouth is full of principles, whose heart is full of business, who always believes the world should revolve around him, and that he is the protagonist of the world.

Plus someone who is always thinking, always only trusts his own judgment, never talks much to others, extremely arrogant and ungrateful, a white-eyed wolf.

「Is this raising gu? 」

Yuzhi pondered for a long time, feeling that he could only use this one word to describe the two's "strong-strong alliance".

「Who is that one-eyed guy? 」

Just as Yuzhi was endlessly complaining in his heart, Hikari suddenly curiously opened his mouth to ask.

「That guy gives me a terrible feeling; he seems to be full of malice toward us. 」

Also, that snake-like guy, is he your former superior?

How does he look like a madman」

Hikari's criticism was indeed somewhat sharp, but Yuzhi was also used to it; he nodded and said.

「Your feeling is correct, that one-eyed guy is called Danzo, a nutcase with a brain problem. »

As for the other one called Orochimaru, perhaps he is now a madman whose mind is full of researching unknown things.

However, a madman is better than a nutcase; at least he still has some sanity, and he hasn't gone completely crazy. »

Yuzhi shook the scroll in his hand, but he seemed to have thought of something, and quickly laughed.

This scroll in his hand can only be considered the most basic gain; Orochimaru is a person who keeps his word.

But this scroll is also only the most basic thing; his system's Side Quest and Orochimaru's promise are the greatest gains!

「Are you happy that the madman will seriously keep his promise to you? 」

Hikari took one look at Yuzhi's appearance and immediately knew what he was thinking.

「Speaking of which, what does Orochimaru have that's worth making you so happy? 」

「His promise is indeed valuable; after all, he's one of the village's Legendary Sannin, and who knows what the future holds? 」

Yuzhi shrugged; he indeed cared about this promise, because once Orochimaru leaves the village in the future, many things will become much more convenient!

For example, Bei Liuhu.

For example, Ghost Net Technique!

Bei Liuhu in the original work is definitely a joker, thinking himself invincible and then declaring war on the entire ninja world using his identity as a Leaf Village rogue ninja.

But his inner purpose was merely to surpass Orochimaru, Ziraiye, and Tsunade, so as not to be looked down upon.

And the final result was that, after absorbing four bloodlines, he was still directly killed by Naruto's one "Spiral Hand Sword".

Although he is a joker, his invention is definitely eye-catching.

In the ninja world, there are truly many ways to obtain power, but the ability of "Ghost Net" to absorb bloodline limits is absolutely one of a kind!

Absorbing bloodline limits, in other words, means one can fuse bloodlines and fuse chakra attributes!

For the entire ninja world, the true "Path to Godhood" is not only the bloodline of the Otsutsuki; there is also a more arduous yet truly existing path.

That is the path of merging the "Bloodline Net"!

No one knows what he was thinking, but the fact is he indeed produced a prototype.

「Even if it's too crude. 」

For any life, the rising of body and soul is forever the most important.

Just like "Impure World Reincarnation", the strength of the person summoned varies with different sacrifices.

"Ghost Net" is likewise; this technique still needs constant improvement, and Yuzhi has confidence he can do it!

【Side Quest Completed: Normal battle with Orochimaru, satisfying part of his curiosity】

【Reward Obtained: Orochimaru's Ninja Technique Research and Remodeling Talent】

Orochimaru's ability to research and remodel ninja techniques is also considered extremely strong in the entire ninja world.

Look at his future modifications to "Impure World Reincarnation"; it greatly weakened the requirements of that technique, which shows.

Although compared to Senju Tobirama he may be slightly inferior, Orochimaru's true talent lies in "scientific research".

「Even if he can't compare to Senju Tobirama, this is definitely stronger than who knows how many others in the ninja world! 」

Obtaining such talent, even if it needs to be slowly absorbed, but finding Bei Liuhu is also not a simple matter.

He has been out of Leaf Village for so many years and has never been found, which also shows that this guy possesses extremely strong hiding ability.

But Yuzhi still has time, so he can wait slowly, after all he still hasn't fully sorted out all of his own "talents" yet.

"Maybe, later this could be tried on Hikari."

Thinking that, Yuzhi turned his gaze toward Hikari beside him.

Hikari's talents and abilities are downright perverse; that seal is basically a 'Youth version of Infinite Tsukuyomi'.

Besides lacking the ability to hang everyone on trees, in terms of chakra absorption she is absolutely a variant of Kaguya Otsutsuki.

If she successfully modifies the Kiroga Technique, would she also become a Kaguya Otsutsuki?

"I really am looking forward to it."

Yuzhi thought humorously to himself, and Hikari naturally noticed his gaze, but only pressed her lips together without speaking.

Although she was very curious why Yuzhi was so eager about Orochimaru's promise, now she was even more puzzled by one thing.

"This guy, why is he becoming more and more rude?"

——

The great fire in Leaf Village that night exhausted countless people, Minato Namikaze included.

After all, as the soon-to-be Fourth Hokage, he naturally had the undeniable duty to command the extinguishing of such a raging blaze.

As for who caused this fire, Leaf Village publicly announced it was an accident.

Of course, whether it was an accident no one cared about anymore.

After a few days of proper rest, as the Third Hokage's notice spread throughout Leaf Village, and a month later Minato Namikaze officially placed the Hokage hat in front of the Hokage Rock.

The succession of the Leaf Village Hokage was thus smoothly handed over, and the Third Hokage Sarutobi Hiruzen became the first living retired Hokage.

The news quickly spread throughout the ninja world, and other great villages reacted differently.

At this time, the entire ninja world, except for the Rock Ninja Village, had basically entered the era of the Fourth Shadow.

"What a bastard."

Upon seeing the news, Oonoki couldn't help but mutter under his breath; it's not that he didn't want to pass on the title, but unfortunately none of the youngsters have met his standards yet.

His son, Huang Tu, was clearly not up to the task, and he also disliked the other candidates.

Thus he could only grumble about why Leaf Village was so full of talent, and then continued to serve as the Third Hokage.

Fortunately, the uniqueness of Dust Release meant that although he grew older, his combat ability hadn't diminished much, otherwise the village would have been in turmoil.

But those are other people's matters; Leaf Village itself still had a huge pile of issues to handle.

Likewise, Yuzhi himself didn't have a shortage of things to keep busy with.

"Is the person you wish to visit here?"

Hikari looked at the orphanage ahead, her face full of curiosity as she stared at Yuzhi.

"Hmm, orphanages have always been a good supplement for ninja families, and actually it's the same for other places as well."

Yuzhi smiled and replied, saying that war orphans aren't a bad thing for any village.

Although that sounds somewhat cruel, their existence can fill many gaps, such as, for example, the ANBU.

After all, having no relatives, they can place their sole bonds onto the village.

Similarly, ninja families are the same; it's an unspoken topic.

Yuzhi, representing the Uchiha Clan, recruited some people; procedurally, it was no problem at all.

"I've heard there are some very formidable folks here, so I naturally want to give it a try."

Yuzhi had actually long wanted to recruit individuals with outstanding medical abilities to assist him with research and experiments.

After pondering, he thought that the pharmacists Yano U and Dou, who were still lingering in the orphanage, would both be excellent candidates.

"Hello, may I ask what business you have?"

When the two of them arrived at the orphanage, a woman dressed in a nun-like robe stepped out, smiling as she asked Yuzhi and the other.

"Hello, are you the director here, Senior Yano U?"

Yuzhi naturally recognized the newcomer at first glance, but he still politely smiled and asked.

"Yes, I am. May I ask who you are?"

Yano U, wearing glasses, carefully examined Yuzhi and Hikari, and a group of children emerged behind her.

Among them was a silver‑haired child who looked only six or seven, wearing glasses and looking somewhat timid at everything before him.

"My name is Uchiha Haori."

Yuzhi naturally noticed the little fellow, then smiled and introduced himself.

"So it's Lord Yuzhi, hello."

Yano U naturally also knew Yuzhi's great name, and moreover was aware that he was a war hero!

Thus her attitude improved considerably; after a moment's thought she smiled and spoke.

"Since honored guests have arrived, let's go inside for a detailed discussion."

Yuzhi nodded, and soon he and Hikari were led by Yano U into a room.

"Lord Yuzhi, please have some tea."

After Yano U brought the freshly brewed tea up, she then sat down and asked.

"May I ask what brings you here this time, sir?"

"I came this time, of course, to select an outstanding child."

Yuzhi didn't hide anything, but he paused briefly before speaking slowly.

"Certainly, if possible, I think I can resolve some of the problems you are currently facing."

"We are all fine, thank you for your concern, Lord Yuzhi."

Yano U frowned upon hearing that, but soon shook her head.

"Is that so?"

Yuzhi's expression remained warm; he looked at Ye Nuo Yu and asked softly.

"Do you have enough funding here? Aside from the budget issue, have you considered the future prospects of these children?"

"And there's another thing—have you thought carefully about it, concerning your own affairs?"

"Lord Yuzhi, what are you talking about?"

Ye Nuo Yu's face appeared unchanged upon hearing this, but inside she became exceedingly solemn at that moment.

Because this is her secret—she was once a member of the Root!

"No need to pretend. Since I dare speak it, it proves I've obtained detailed information."

Yuzhi smiled, then continued to babble, but he wasn't worried anyone would verify it.

"Don't forget, when I carried out the mission originally, who I was with—Director Ye Nuo Yu."

At that moment, Ye Nuo Yu truly could not speak; she naturally knew that was the Fourth Hokage!

But Ye Nuo Yu knows her senior, Tuan Zang, is a man full of selfish desires and a craving for control.

Although he claims his deeds are for Leaf Village, Ye Nuo Yu finds them almost unspeakably atrocious.

Someone like that could never hand the Root's list to the Fourth Hokage.

But she can't verify such a thing; no one would tell her.

"It seems, Director Ye Nuo Yu, you have already understood."

Yuzhi paid no mind to Ye Nuo Yu's silence; he lifted his teacup and said softly.

"Actually I'm curious about something—Director Ye Nuo Yu, you should know the kind of person Tuan Zang is.

Do you think you could truly avoid Tuan Zang by leaving the Root?"

"I'm fine now."

Ye Nuo Yu hesitated briefly, then spoke.

"Now it's fine, but you also have many attachments and bonds now."

Yuzhi shook his head, seeming somewhat regretful.

"If I were Tuan Zang, I would, when needed, cut the orphanage's funding to force you to comply.

Or I would find out which child you favor most in the orphanage and take them away; then you couldn't do nothing."

At this point, Yuzhi stopped, because he noticed Hikari's gaze at him had become odd again.

But Yuzhi didn't mind; after all, he's not the one being the villain, and pretending to be one isn't a big deal.

Turning his head, Yuzhi saw several little ones outside the window peeking inside.

Especially the white‑haired Dou, which was even more evident, made him chuckle.

Dou and Ye Nuo Yu, these two were truly ruined by Tuan Zang.

One was trapped to the point of not knowing who he was; the other was trapped and didn't know who she was fighting for.

In the end, because Tuan Zang didn't trust them, the two ended up killing each other.

Actually Yuzhi would love to seize that opportunity, because rescuing them then would make them utterly loyal to him.

But the problem is, that's many years later, and can he just go to Rock Village at will?

So he decided, instead of searching the ocean for a needle, it's better to strike first!

As for Tuan Zang, this guy already harbors malice toward the Uchiha Clan; rather than trying to change him, it's better to keep him from even thinking about the Hokage.

If Yuzhi previously had some reservations and worries because Tuan Zang's Root was still present, now this guy doesn't have that many people at his disposal.

Therefore Yuzhi can be a bit bolder now; beating a downed dog is something he loves to do!

"Then, Lord Yuzhi, how do the things you're thinking now differ from those of Lord Tuan Zang?"

After a while, Ye Nuo Yu finally lifted her head and stared straight at Yuzhi.

"I differ greatly from Tuan Zang, because even if you reject me, I won't force you."

Yuzhi shook his head and set down the cup in his hand.

"However, I hope you'll listen to the conditions I offer first, and decide after hearing them."

"Please speak, sir."

"I will have the Police Department provide part of the funding to ensure the orphanage runs smoothly."

Yuzhi smiled, then voiced his idea.

"However, I will also select some gifted children to undergo preliminary training and study with the Police Department.

In the future they can work for the Police Department; of course they may leave, but must serve the Police Department for eight years.

After all, we can't train them for nothing; after eight years they can make a free choice, and we will not interfere.

Besides that, I will also pick some talents to cultivate medical ability, since both the Uchiha Clan and the Police Department need such talent.

This matter will likely require senior Ye Nuo Yu's help; I know your level of medical ninjutsu has always been strong."

Yuzhi's words and the conditions he offered were indeed generous, though he did not elaborate on medical research.

But that level of detail is more than enough, and even if Ye Nuo Yu were to disclose today's meeting, he wouldn't be afraid.

Everything is lawful and compliant, and what he does not only helps the orphanage but also benefits the Police Department; no one can find trouble here.

And Ye Nuo Yu, upon hearing this, was naturally moved, yet she remained cautious.

After a while, she finally asked, "Lord Yuzhi, it shouldn't be that simple, right?"

"Of course not, but at least that's the case now; after all, some things can only be known after mutual trust is established."

Yuzhi shook his head; he wasn't prepared to say more.

"We are all ninja, especially since I am a clan ninja, naturally there are some secrets.

Moreover, even what I am unwilling to disclose will not violate Leaf Village's regulations.

We are all clear about Lord Orochimaru's matters; I naturally will not make a mistake."

"But the final decision still rests with you, Director Yenai Yu."

Yuzhi stopped speaking at that point, while Yenai Yu was already lost in thought.

Seeing the scene, Yuzhi's mouth twitched into a mischievous grin, then he spoke with a slightly serious tone.

"Think it over carefully, especially think hard about Danzo."

"You don't want these poor children to become Danzo's future pawns, do you?"

Hearing that, Yenai Yu clenched his fist, while Hikari rolled his eyes.

Another one of those oddly worded remarks. —

"That guy Yuzhi really can't stay idle."

Inside the Hokage's office, Minato Namikaze, who had become the Fourth Hokage, looked at the report in his hands, both amused and bewildered.

The Third Hokage, standing beside him, glanced curiously at Minato.

"Third Hokage, take a look."

Minato naturally noticed the Third Hokage's curious gaze and simply handed the report over.

After succeeding as Hokage, Minato knew that, being so young, he still lacked sufficient experience to manage a village of this size.

Therefore he remained humble, and importantly, he would consult the Third Hokage on matters.

He would also discuss with the heads of various departments and the Clan Leaders of the great families.

After all, he had just taken office and was only in his twenties.

Even though he was a war hero with the moniker "Yellow Flash," Yuzhi had stolen his spotlight far too often in this world.

Of course, even if he hadn't been upstaged, the great clans of Leaf Village might not have bought his claims if he acted recklessly.

The more everyone discusses, and the more he consults the Third Hokage, the more policies can advance.

Nevertheless, he also accelerated the expansion of his influence, for example by promoting trusted individuals into key positions while maintaining good relations with the great families.

Only in this way could he better control Leaf Village.

"That kid's ambition is truly huge."

After reading the report, the Third Hokage couldn't help but shake his head.

"Using the orphanage children to fill the Police Department's vacancies is indeed ruthless."

"Isn't that fine?"

Minato Namikaze asked somewhat oddly, and he thought this was actually good.

After all, Yuzhi and he have a good relationship; although he no longer intends to recruit him into his core team, gaining Yuzhi's support would certainly not be a disadvantage.

Moreover, they are also working to let Yuzhi obtain the Uchiha Clan's voice, thereby controlling the Police Department; in his view, they are united.

"Good or bad really depends on the person."

The Third Hokage was clearly far more experienced than Minato; he stood up, walked to the cabinet, retrieved a document, handed it to Minato Namikaze, and then began to speak.

"The Police Department was given to the Uchiha Clan by my teacher, the Second Hokage; its authority structure and scope are extremely broad.

To put it bluntly, it touches every aspect; don't be fooled by how the Police Department looks now—it was shaped by the previous Uchiha.

That kid Yuzhi probably wanted to restore the true Police Department, which is why he caused such a stir.

Nevertheless, the kid is still very rational; he has incorporated members of Leaf's great families and civilian ninjas, which also reveals his intentions."

"Is that so? The Police Department is actually that massive?"

Minato Namikaze listened to the Third Hokage while looking at the document in his hand, and he was startled.

This Police Department truly is a monster of an organization!

After a while, he finally closed the document and looked at the Third Hokage.

"Then, Third Hokage, how do you think this matter should be handled?"

"As I said, it depends on the person."

The Third Hokage also restrained his smile, looked at Minato seriously, and said.

"The Second Hokage could give them confidence of his own, and the later Police Department also explains everything."

As for now, it depends on how you think, and also on what Yuzhi will actually do and to what extent.

If he becomes the Police Department chief and remains true to his original intention, then I think the institution has its own value.

After all, he hasn't turned the institution into one that belongs solely to the Uchiha Clan; instead, he gave everyone a chance to participate together.

But if he doesn't become the Police Department chief, or if he later changes his mind, that would be a very troublesome matter.

The Third Hokage didn't deliberately smear the Uchiha Clan, nor did he blindly trust Yuzhi; instead, he spoke frankly and fairly.

In fact, letting him handle the matter himself, he wouldn't reach a conclusion immediately.

He trusts his own judgment and believes his ideas and policies can lead Leaf Village to greater prosperity.

However, many things need to be observed slowly; although the Police Department's authority structure is massive, can it become larger than the Hokage?

"I understand, Third Hokage, I want to observe their situation first, since everything is currently developing in a good direction."

Minato thought for a moment, then gave his own answer.

"Moreover, I also trust Yuzhi, after all didn't the Third Hokage also decide to give him a hand?"

"Then do it that way, approve him, but also tell him that other families in need must have slots."

The Third Hokage nodded; after all, supporting Yuzhi was his decision.

But it wouldn't be good for Yuzhi to take over the entire orphanage; leaving necessary slots for other places in need is essential.

"I understand, Third Hokage."

Minato smiled and nodded, then picked up another document to read, and his smile grew even brighter.

"Third Hokage, look, this is the evaluation of the Police Department's performance submitted by Lu Jiu.

It says that they now handle matters with objectivity and moderation, and their law enforcement also has warmth; everyone gave them high praise."

The residents of Leaf Village are also very cooperative; it seems that Yuzhi, although not the Director, wields great influence and has done a fine job.

That's good.

The Third Hokage heard this and nodded; he was pleased to hear it.

Although he never denied his selfish motives, he certainly hopes Leaf Village will prosper, so he is naturally glad that the Police Department has become like this.

He does have a few complaints, though; after Yuzhi has "raked up" so much reputation, all supplies were distributed under the name "procured by Yuzhi."

How is this guy still the Police Department Director and not the Clan Leader yet?

That really doesn't seem like a Uchiha.

But it's fine not to think about it; he's had enough of those extreme lunatics, and a normal person would be great.

Just as he was pondering, Minato Namikaze picked up another document and couldn't help but frown.

He glanced silently at the Third Hokage beside him, then Minato Namikaze sighed and set the document down.

The matter concerns Danzo's Root; they have taken an interest in some people and wish to absorb them.

Regarding the Root, Minato Namikaze knows its necessity, but he is equally uneasy about Danzo's actions.

Unfortunately, he has just taken the stage, and many people are not ones he can offend at will.

Even the Third Hokage has continuously tolerated and protected Danzo; what can he do?

Resigned, Minato Namikaze sighed again and picked up the next document to continue reading.

He knows that some things truly have to be taken slowly—

"Yuzhi, will your new home be here from now on?"

Within the Uchiha Clan, Lin looked at the vacant lot before her and the bustling crowd around it, then asked with a smile.

"Hmm, barring any mishaps we'll move in here, but it may take some time before we can actually live there."

Yuzhi smiled and nodded; his new home is finally about to break ground.

The location had long been decided, but the plans and blueprints took them quite a while.

Hikari originally intended to design it herself, but after half a day she realized she lacked the talent and gave up.

Nevertheless, she couldn't design everything, but she still participated in many of the design choices.

After several months of back‑and‑forth, everything was finally settled.

"Your new home blueprint looks good, even with a garden—do you happen to like gardening?"

Asma and Kakashi stood nearby looking at the plans; after a while, Asma turned to Yuzhi with a puzzled question.

Asma, once a superficial brother, has now essentially become Yuzhi's true brother, involving himself in everything.

Although the kid remains rebellious, his father's retirement seems to have eased their relationship considerably.

But that's Asma's family matter, and Yuzhi didn't press him further.

Regarding his question, Yuzhi subtly turned his gaze toward Hikari nearby.

The plans were all finalized by her; they have little to do with Yuzhi.

"I like gardening, but I don't have a garden. Since Yuzhi's new home is close to mine, I had you make a garden for him."

Hikari seemed to notice Yuzhi's stare, thought for a moment, and simply explained.

But her words made Zhisui, who had run over to help, pucker his lips and say, "You all live together openly; basically everyone in the clan knows."

Do we still need to hide it from outsiders?

"I'm truly envious; having a garden is indeed wonderful."

Lin watched Hikari with a hint of envy, and Kakashi nodded and smiled.

"Then next time we pay respects to Obito, we won't go to a flower shop; we'll just pick them here from you."

"Whatever you like, as long as there are still flowers then."

Yuzhi doesn't mind such matters, but he wonders whether he'll plant some vegetables in the future.

Is a clan's innate talent, once the body changes, still etched in the soul?

As for honoring Obito, Yuzhi thinks it's unnecessary; that guy is completely insane now.

Of course, he wouldn't bring it up; he's in a good mood and naturally avoids such grim topics.

With Minato Namikaze taking the stage and the Police Department's reforms, the Uchiha Clan can be said to have been revitalized.

Through the monthly clan meetings, internal issues are being resolved step by step.

Even the lowest‑rank children receive clan education; the elite members get slightly less of the previous overflow.

But Yuzhi hasn't shortchanged them; he at least provides some compensation elsewhere.

Moreover, clan training groups all children together, fostering a collective mindset from a young age.

After all, Yuzhi's group likely knows few clan members; to understand someone's situation, they'd have to dig through records.

Such extreme unfamiliarity is undesirable, and it's something Yuzhi's group is striving to overcome.

The Police Department is also developing rapidly; with Minato Namikaze approving Yuzhi's joint orphanage plan, Yano naturally won't oppose.

After all, for her, being with Yuzhi is far better than being with Danzo!

Yuzhi is now planning a new department and has already informed Shin and Hiu of the Uchiha Clan to begin staff training.

The Police Department can generally be divided into several divisions; one naturally resembles a police and city‑management unit.

The second is the prison, the third could be expanded into a court, and the fourth is the Armed Forces division!

According to his plan, he intends to set up the court first.

The Police Department already holds judicial authority; publicly trying serious offenders can boost its image.

Moreover, Yuzhi intends to spin off this division; both the court and the prison will have most of their administrators be others, which poses no issue.

As for the police and city‑management side, Yuzhi can split it fifty‑fifty, but for the Armed Forces division he plans to lead most of it himself!

Thus Yuzhi will handle the Armed Forces division later; the cake is already mostly divided, and keeping a bit more for himself won't draw accusations of hogging.

"But all this needs to be done step by step; let's first take our time getting the first one done."

Yuzhi stroked his chin and thought that once the first is done, the second, third, and fourth will become increasingly easy.

"Ready to get to work!"

While they were idly chatting, Akai and Aoba had already come over with a hoe and a shovel.

Kakashi and the others came over intending to help; seeing the tools in Akai's hands, each of them immediately went to take one.

"Senior, may we begin?"

Zhishui also grabbed a shovel, smiling as he looked at Yuzhi.

Lately he has performed very well in the Police Department, and even though he just joined, he has already begun promotion training.

Unsurprisingly, he will undoubtedly become an important member of the Police Department in the future.

"Hmm, anytime."

Yuzhi also took a shovel and smiled at Zhishui.

But as he looked at the shovel in his hand, he couldn't help turning his head toward Hikari beside him.

"What's wrong?"

Hikari seemed puzzled and asked, bewildered.

"I recalled something that makes me happy."

Yuzhi shook his head and said nothing.

"What happy thing?"

Hikari also glanced at the shovel in Yuzhi's hand, and suddenly she thought of something.

She remembered their first meeting; although it wasn't pleasant, she wouldn't forget that Yuzhi had once dug her out from underground!

"You bastard."

Hikari replied with a half‑laugh, half‑cry.

"Last time I used a shovel to pull you out, and now you want another shovel to dig a new home?"

Yuzhi leaned beside her and teased softly.

"A house is built; right now we're just digging the foundation, idiot."

Hikari glared at Yuzhi, but soon she laughed.

"But that's a nice metaphor too—should I go first or you?"

"Of course, I."

Yuzhi wouldn't back down; he stepped onto the open ground and slammed the shovel into the earth.

Accompanied by the shrieks of Kakashi and the others, everyone rushed forward to help.

Hikari stayed where she was, watching, and after a while she laughed and shook her head.

"Thank you for pulling me out."

——

"Looks like you handled it quite well."

In the Rain Country, within a strange building, Obito glanced at Zhangmen and gave a slight nod.

"Though it cost you a price, you have attained a rare power—congratulations, Zhangmen."

"What brings you to see me, Madara Uchiha?"

Sect Leader stared coldly at Obito; his demeanor was far from friendly.

"I'm here to help you, or rather to give you information for revenge."

Obito paid no mind to Sect Leader's tone and spoke in a hoarse voice.

"When Miyan died, I wonder if you recall there were two groups involved."

Mentioning Miyan's death made Sect Leader's face instantly turn ferocious.

Even after more than half a year, Sect Leader still cannot forget it; he will never forget that Miyan was forced to kill himself at his hands.

That pain still tears at his heart to this day.

"I remember one group belonged to Banzang, and the other group yields no trace."

After a while, Sect Leader finally said coldly.

"Never mind; once I kill Banzang, I'll know exactly who those people are!"

"You don't have that many people at your disposal now, and killing Banzang isn't simple; that guy hides well."

Obito scoffed with a smile, then spoke softly.

"However, I can help you; dealing with Banzang isn't difficult for me, but I also need you to do something for me."

"You still need help?"

Hearing that, Sect Leader finally showed a strange expression.

"Everyone needs assistance, especially I want to test Leaf Village's strength and see if the Nine-Tails can be captured, though there are some issues."

Obito would never admit he was beaten to a pulp; he would never say that.

"My body is also a bit aged, and regaining strength takes time, so I need your help."

"Of course, that's also helping yourself, because"

"The other group, from Leaf Village?"

At that moment Sect Leader understood, and his face grew even more ferocious.

Although his teacher was Ziraiye, his parents were killed by Leaf Village ninjas, and now Leaf Village people caused Miyan's death—how could he accept that?

"That's right, from Leaf Village."

Obito nodded leisurely and continued slowly.

"That's why I invited you to act together; besides, your eyes also need to be tempered."

"Leaf Village is a decent enemy, and what could be better than striking at Leaf Village, that nemesis, to let you better unleash your own power?"

At this point, Obito stopped, and he quietly gave a glance at the silent Changmen.

He knew that Changmen had already agreed in his heart, for avenging Miyan was something Changmen could hardly refuse.

"Think it over carefully, consider it thoroughly; I can also promise this won't cause too much trouble."

However, Obito didn't force Changmen to state his position on the spot, but instead prepared to withdraw as a tactical retreat.

"After all, the Akatsuki Organization still needs to develop; we all need the Akatsuki Organization to forge future peace."

"Also, I suppose you wouldn't willingly know the enemy is in Leaf Village yet not intend to avenge Miyan, right?"

After saying that, Obito's body began to twist.

Changmen remained silent, but his eyes gradually grew steadfast.

Thank you all for your support, subscriptions, and monthly tickets; thanks everyone.

The power outage is really messed up; my head hurts to death.