Naruto: Mikoto and Tsunade, don't let either of them go.

Page 127

Kakashi knew perfectly well that there were more people present than just those fighting; there was also someone watching from the sidelines – Uchiha Kakuzan.

Given Uchiha Kazuyama's stealth abilities, even elite Jonin like Kakashi and Raiga Kurosuki failed to detect him, yet this child discovered him and even perceived Kazuyama's terrifying strength, warning Raiga Kurosuki. This child's eyes definitely have a problem, and it's very likely that they possess an ability similar to the Byakugan.

Chapter 387 The Return of the Ninja Sword

Chapter 387 The Return of the Ninja Sword

Just as Kakashi was hesitating, unsure of how to handle the child, a gentle voice suddenly appeared beside him.

"Let's take this child back to Konoha. At least he can grow up normally."

Upon hearing the voice, Kakashi immediately relaxed and, looking at Lord Qiushan who had appeared beside him at some point, respectfully replied:

"Yes, Lord Qiu."

Just then, Raiga Kurosuki, who was not far away, spoke up, his tone filled with helplessness and pleading:

"This adult from Konoha Village, could you please return that child to me? He is very important to me."

At this time, Raiga Kurosuki also gave up his hostility towards Konoha Village, because he regarded Ranmaru not just as a tool, but as a partner with whom he could rely on each other. That's why he prayed to the people of Konoha Village in order to get Ranmaru back.

Originally, Raiga Kurosuki had considered stealing it, but let alone the terrifying person Ranmaru mentioned, even if it were just Kakashi, Raiga Kurosuki would have a hard time defeating him without Ranmaru. Moreover, there were those six troublesome brats.

Upon hearing Raiga's words, everyone present turned to look at him. Even Ranmaru, hidden in his bundle, had a glint in his eyes and whispered, "Raiga."

Upon seeing the gazes of the Konoha official and Kakashi fixed on him, Raiga Kurosuki felt a chill run down his spine. However, he gritted his teeth, made a snap decision, and threw his ninja sword, Raito Kiba, directly in front of Kakashi and the others, saying with difficulty:

"I am willing to surrender and give you Kiba, one of the Seven Ninja Swords of the Mist, just ask that you return Ranmaru to me."

The little ones were also bewildered by this situation. They hadn't expected that their seemingly harmless enemy, who had just appeared to be a powerful villainous boss, would surrender so suddenly, leaving them somewhat unable to accept it.

Just then, Uchiha Kakuzan stepped forward and gently kicked the two lightning blades still flashing with lightning in front of him back, leaving Kurosuki Raiga somewhat bewildered as he caught them back in his hands.

"The rogue ninja from Kirigakure—Kurosuki Raiga, right? It's been a long time since you've been back to Kirigakure. Kirigakure is quite remote, and you may not know that the Fourth Mizukage of Kirigakure, Yagura Karatachi, has already been killed by someone else. Your Kirigakure's Fourth Blood Mist is gone."

The current Kirigakure is ruled by the Fifth Mizukage, Mei Terumi, assisted by the village's Grand Elder, Genshi. They have abandoned the Fourth Mizukage's policies and instead reformed the village, opening it up completely. For traitors like you, forced into rebellion by circumstances, as long as you sincerely repent, Kirigakure will accept you.

Upon hearing Uchiha Kakuzan's words, Kurosuki Raiga's eyes widened in surprise. Ever since betraying the Fourth Mizukage, he had been hiding in a remote place, barely surviving. He wouldn't have come out this time if it weren't for the wealthy merchant Gato giving him so much.

What he didn't expect was that so many things happened during the time he was in hiding. The Fourth Mizukage was dead, and the Fifth Mizukage was willing to give rogue ninjas like them a chance to reform. Moreover, with Elder Yuan Shi as a guarantor, it should be quite reliable.

This unexpected news left Kurosuki Raiga, whose mind wasn't exactly sharp to begin with, completely stunned. After a moment, Kurosuki Raiga asked, his face full of anticipation:

"Sir, is what you're saying true?"

Uchiha Kakuzan looked at Kurosuki Raiga in front of him, smiled and nodded, as if looking at a cute, hardworking man.

He had promised Mei Terumi that if he encountered any elite rogue ninjas from Kirigakure while he was out and about, he would capture them and bring them back to him.

This Raiga Kurosuki was the first wielder of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist. He even managed to escape from Might Guy, who had opened the Eighth Gate of the Eight Gates. Whether it was luck or strength, he was an elite from Kirigakure, and by all accounts, he met Mei Terumi's requirements.

Uchiha Kakuzan, seeing the eager look on Kurosuki Raiga's face, then added fuel to the fire.

“Mei Terumi and I are good friends. Several years ago, I handed over Zabuza, the wielder of the Executioner's Blade, to Mei Terumi. Now, after several years of atonement, Zabuza has long been accepted by Kirigakure and has become the direct subordinate of the Fifth Mizukage.”

Zabuza had been serving under Uchiha Kakuzan, but one time, after Kakuzan was intimate with Mei Terumi, he let slip that it was true, and Mei Terumi found out.

Therefore, Mei Terumi used all her skills against Okayama-kun to finally get Zabuza back from him, making him one of the Fifth Mizukage's most capable subordinates.

Hearing Uchiha Kakuzan's words, Kurosuki Raiga became even more tempted.

He knew about Zabuza, after all, among all the graduates of the Hidden Mist Village's Ninja Academy, only Zabuza had wiped out all his classmates, forcing the Hidden Mist Village to change the graduation requirements of the Ninja Academy.

It's important to understand that Zabuza is different from him. Zabuza only defected after failing to assassinate the Fourth Mizukage. In other words, Zabuza's actions were far more egregious than Zabuza's, yet he still managed to return to Kirigakure.

Therefore, Zabuza's successful case made Raiga Kurosuki's already restless heart even more eager.

Kurozuki Raiga immediately tucked the thunder blade into his waistband, looked at the man in front of him, and said:

"I believe you, sir, but could you please return Ranmaru to me? I want to take him back to Kirigakure with me."

Looking at the pleading look in Kurosuki Raiga's eyes, Uchiha Kakuzan shook his head and said:

"I just did a quick check on the child and found that he was quite weak. So I'll take him back to Konoha Village to treat and recuperate him, so that he can at least live a normal life like an ordinary person."

At this point, Uchiha Kakuyama looked at Kurosuki Raiga:

"Furthermore, even if you take this child back, you won't have time to care for him. In the next few years, Kirigakure will never trust you to take a child of unknown origin back. Even if you do take him back, you will be separated, and he will be sent to an orphanage."

"Besides, the medical ninjas in your Hidden Mist Village are still far inferior to those in the Hidden Leaf Village. Let's wait a few years, until this child recovers his health, and you regain your footing in the Hidden Mist Village. If your wishes remain unchanged, I will agree to let you take him back."

Chapter 388 Raiga's Return

Chapter 388 Raiya's Return

Upon hearing Uchiha Kakuzan's words, Kurosuki Raiga also fell silent, because he knew very well that what the person in front of him said was indeed true. Even if he brought Ranmaru back, it would be virtually impossible for them to be together.

Raiga Kurosuki gritted his teeth, bowed to Uchiha Kakuyama, and said:

"You're right. Then, I'll leave Ranmaru to you. May I ask your name? I, Raiga Kurosuki, will forever remember your kindness."

Upon hearing Raiga Kurosuki's words, Uchiha Kakuzan understood his intention, chuckled twice, and said:

"Don't worry, I can't possibly trick you. My name is Uchiha Kakuzan, and I am currently the head of the Uchiha clan and the leader of the Konoha Anbu. After you return to Kirigakure, you can mention my name to Mei Terumi. That way, your time for atonement can be reduced by one or two years."

Hearing Uchiha Kakuzan's words, Kurosuki Raiga was completely relieved. Of course, he knew about the famous Uchiha clan. Moreover, even though he had been living in a remote place all these years, Uchiha Kakuzan's name had long been known, and people knew that he was now the second most important person in Konoha.

Upon seeing that the person who took in Ranmaru was none other than the renowned Uchiha Kakuzan, Kurosuki Raiga breathed a sigh of relief. Then, as if remembering something, he pulled a thin paper booklet from his pocket and gently tossed it to Uchiha Kakuzan.

"Clan Chief Qiu, these are some of my insights and techniques regarding Lightning Release ninjutsu. Although you probably wouldn't find them valuable with your current strength, they can be given to your disciples for amusement. They aren't particularly valuable, but they're the only things I can offer."

At this point, Kurozuki Raiga patted the thunder sword at his waist somewhat embarrassedly and said:

"As for this Raikiri, I have no choice but to shamelessly take it back to Kirigakure. Otherwise, if I lose the ninja sword, the village might imprison me for life. I want to come out and see Ranmaru after he recovers."

Uchiha Kakuzan waved his hand dismissively, saying:

"Go ahead without worry. The relationship between Konoha and Kirigakure has been quite good these past few years. Kirigakure will also send someone to participate in the Chunin Exams held in Konoha this year. Once you perform well and are released by Mei Terumi, you can apply to become a liaison ninja between Kirigakure and Konoha. That way, you can also stay in Konoha permanently."

Hearing what Qiushan-kun said, and glancing at Ranmaru in the package, Kurosuki Raiga was somewhat tempted by his suggestion. His already thick eyebrows furrowed, and after a moment's hesitation, he finally said:

"Let's wait for the Fifth Mizukage's arrangements. I have indeed betrayed the village, and I'm willing to accept whatever the Mizukage decides for me."

In fact, Raiga Kurosuki also has deep feelings for Kirigakure; otherwise, he wouldn't have been so fond of Ranmaru, who gave him a sense of need.

Now that he has the opportunity to return to the village, he certainly won't give it up. As for how the Mizukage deals with him, he'll accept it willingly.

Now that he had a new goal, and Ranmaru, whom he cared about most, had found a good home, Raiga Kurosuki did not delay any longer and bid farewell to Uchiha Okayama.

Just as Raiga Kurosuki was about to take his leave, he suddenly remembered something, opened his mouth towards Uchiha Kakuyama, and seemed somewhat hesitant.

Originally, Uchiha Kakuzan had already said goodbye to Kurosuki Raiga, but seeing his behavior, he still asked:

"What's wrong? Is there any other problem? Don't worry, just go back to Kirigakure with peace of mind. The atmosphere in Kirigakure is very open and relaxed now, you'll definitely like it."

Uchiha Kakuzan thought that Kurosuki Raiga was worried about Kirigakure and that Kirigakure wouldn't accept him.

Upon hearing Uchiha Kakuzan's words, and glancing at Ranmaru beside him, Kurosuki Raiga gritted his teeth and said:

"Fine, I'll break my ninja code for once, Clan Chief Okayama. I'm returning to Kirigakure soon. Before then, I'll tell you what I know about Gato."

Kurozuki Raiga stroked the thunder blade at his waist and continued:

"Kado, a ruthless and heartless tycoon, took in many wandering samurai. These wandering samurai were completely different from the samurai of the Iron Kingdom; they were utterly wicked and committed countless evil deeds."

Of course, these weak samurai are no problem for you, but as far as I know, besides inviting me here, Kado has also posted a job ad on the black market. Apparently, a very powerful guy has accepted the mission, so you must be careful.

Uchiha Kakuzan nodded in agreement upon hearing Kurosuki Raiga's words. He knew that no matter who came, they would be no match for him, let alone someone he had just found on the black market.

In Qiushanjun's mind, the real masters all came from the great ninja villages, while the people in the black market and small ninja villages were mostly low-class and therefore not worth paying attention to.

After reminding Uchiha Kakuzan, Raiga Kurosuki had no more lingering feelings. He gave Ranmaru a deep look, then turned and left, disappearing into the thick fog.

I don't know if it's just my imagination, but after Kurosuki Raiga left, I felt like the fog around us had thinned out considerably.

Tazuna, who had been watching the show with trepidation, breathed a sigh of relief when the guy who could control lightning and wind finally left. After taking off his hat, he wiped the cold sweat from his face with lingering fear.

After some time, Tazuna finally found a small boat willing to secretly take them to the Land of Waves.

In fact, apart from Tazuna, everyone else present had the ability to walk on the sea. If it weren't for the thick fog that made it impossible to find the way to the Land of Waves, Kakashi would have simply had Naruto carry Tazuna across the sea.

As the small boat carried everyone to the Land of Waves, the thick fog on the sea was blown away, revealing the long-awaited sun.

The Land of Waves, bathed in sunlight, left everyone who was visiting the seaside for the first time in awe. Karin and Ino couldn't help but exclaim:

"so beautiful."

Naruto and Choji nodded repeatedly upon hearing this, as it was the first time they had ever seen such a beautiful seascape.

Sitting on the small boat, Tazuna shook his head helplessly after seeing the reactions of the little ones, and said with a wry smile:

"Although the scenery of our Land of Waves is beautiful, its resources are not very abundant. It was barely enough to support the residents of our island. But since Gato came, he has cut off our economic lifeline. Now, the residents of the Land of Waves are waiting for me to return. As long as the bridge to the mainland is built, we will be able to get rid of Gato's control."

Chapter 389 Body Refining Secret Technique

Chapter 389 Body Refining Secret Techniques

Uchiha Kakuzan, amused by Tazuna's naive words, shook his head and raised his own question:

"Mr. Tazuna, what if, after you build the bridge, Kado takes control of it? What will you do then? With the fighting strength of your island's inhabitants, can you resist Kado's wandering samurai?"

Upon hearing Uchiha Kakuyama's words, Tazuna's hopeful smile immediately froze.

Gradually, Tazuna's eyes were filled with panic. He looked at Uchiha Kakuyama with a flustered expression. Only then did he realize that he had been too presumptuous. He had no idea what to do and could only look at the person he trusted most.

Because Tazna knew very well that among everyone present, the person in front of him was the one in charge. Since building the bridge was not working, what should they do to break free from Kado's control?

Seeing that Tazuna understood, Uchiha Kakuzan nodded to him and reassured him:

"Don't worry, knowing Gato's personality, he will absolutely not let you build the bridge. Just go ahead and organize the residents to build it. I will have Kakashi and the others protect you."

Originally, Kado's purpose in controlling the island was to build a hidden factory and transit point to secretly transport his contraband and drugs.

However, if a bridge were built connecting this island directly to the mainland, it would attract many people, thus rendering his base meaningless.

Therefore, Kado will absolutely not allow the bridge to be built in order to achieve his goal.

As the designer, builder, and director of this bridge, Katzner's importance is self-evident.

Therefore, as long as Kakashi and the others can protect Tazuna, Gato's subordinates will keep coming to cause them trouble, just like delivering experience packs. This is just the right amount of training for these newly graduated ninjas.

Upon hearing Lord Goku's words, Kakashi immediately understood his meaning and continued:

"Don't worry, Mr. Tazuna, we will definitely protect you and your family. If you really encounter an enemy that we cannot defeat, Lord Kazuyama will absolutely not stand by and watch you die."

Kakashi was also afraid that Tazuna would back down. If they didn't build the bridge, Gato might come looking for trouble again, and if that happened, the mission would be stalled and unable to continue.

Therefore, in order to complete the mission and train the kids, Kakashi brought up Lord Qiushan. Based on his understanding of Lord Qiushan, he knew that he would never refute such trivial matters. Moreover, when the time came, all the kids present had close relationships with him, and Kakashi did not believe that Lord Qiushan would stand idly by.

Moreover, Kakashi knew that even if he were in danger, given his loyalty to the Hokage, Lord Kazuma would surely come to his rescue.

As for the previous agreement not to intervene, Kakashi was very clear about it. It was just that Lord Kazuya wanted to shirk his responsibilities and pushed the task of leading these kids onto him. It was because he had been too soft-hearted when facing Tazuna.

When Uchiha Kakuzan heard Kakashi's words, he only glanced at him expressionlessly, which made Kakashi look at the six little ones with a guilty conscience.

Seeing Kakashi's guilty conscience, Uchiha Kakuzan sighed inwardly, nodded slightly, and said:

"Don't worry, when it really comes to that, I will step in and guarantee the safety of your whole family."

Although Tazuna didn't know how precious Uchiha Kakuzan's promise was, he breathed a sigh of relief and assured him:

"For the people of the Land of Waves to break free from Gato's control as soon as possible, I will risk my old bones to lead the residents to build the bridge."

The person who secretly helped Tazuna quickly disappeared from everyone's sight with a small boat after delivering them to the island.

Tazuna then took Kakashi and his group to his home, where his daughter warmly welcomed them.

Of course, in their home, there was also a traumatized kid, Tazuna's grandson, Inari, who always had a gloomy face because his stepfather was killed by Gato, as if he was hostile to the whole world.

Uchiha Kakuzan ignored the brat. He decided to let Naruto handle the talk-no-jutsu, since Naruto had managed to bring the entire Hidden Leaf Village to life with just his words.

Moreover, Naruto's sunny personality has an infectious charm that easily influences others. Sooner or later, this eccentric kid will be transformed into a passionate young man by Naruto's influence.

After everyone rested at Tazuna's house, Uchiha Kakuyama stepped forward and called the members of the 10th Squad out, ostensibly for training.

As for Naruto, Sasuke, and the others, they were handed over to Kakashi. As the renowned Copy Ninja, Kakashi had quite a few personal skills to offer. While it wasn't expected that he could make Naruto and Sasuke incredibly powerful, he could still lay a solid foundation. (Actually, Uchiha Kakuzan had already taught them everything that needed to be taught; Kakashi was merely playing a supporting role.)

Shikamaru, Ino, and the others, having received family training, had already mastered techniques for controlling chakra, such as climbing trees and treading water.

Therefore, Uchiha Kakuyama focused on their weaknesses and gave them intensive training.

Among them, apart from Choji, the rest, whether it's Shikamaru or Ino, are all very bad at taijutsu.

This is not their fault, after all, their family's secret techniques do not require very high physical skills.

However, Uchiha Kakuzan was very clear that if you want to improve your strength, you not only need to improve what you are good at, but also work hard to improve your weaknesses. Only in this way can you be completely defenseless when you are countered.

In the ninja world, no matter who you are, if you want to become a strong person, you must master taijutsu. If you observe carefully, you will find that whether it is Uchiha Madara or Senju Hashirama, their taijutsu is first-class.