Immortality begins with the ninjas of Konoha.

Chapter 118 The "Pain" of a Great Power...

On January 1st, Konoha Year 50, the first day of the new year, the Land of Iron, surrounded by Mount Sanrou, officially welcomed the Five Kage Summit.

To ensure the safe convening of the conference, Admiral Mifune of the Land of Iron made arrangements for the surrounding defenses well in advance.

Fully armed samurai patrolled along fixed routes, and the venue for the Five Kage Summit received the highest level of protection.

Within the capital city protected by several city walls, the five Kage took their seats one by one behind a circular table, their expressions solemn. The straw hats symbolizing the Kage were placed in front of them, and for a moment no one spoke up.

Mifune, nearing 50, was in the twilight of his prime, but as a samurai, his strength was not to be underestimated. He bowed slightly to the Five Kage to show his respect: "At the summons of the Mizukage, the Five Kage have finally gathered in the Land of Iron."

"I am Mifune, who is in charge of this meeting. In the following talks, everyone is welcome to speak freely."

The Mizukage is the oldest, and the Tsuchikage and Hokage are also considered senior figures. The Raikage and Kazekage have only recently taken office and are completely overshadowed in terms of age.

The Mizukage, with his long, graying hair, squinted in his seat. As the initiator, his aged and withered face remained calm as he spoke with composure: "Ahem, the Hidden Mist ninja have not intervened in the war, but we are also observing the course of this war."

"In my view, the reason for the repeated outbreaks of war lies in the imbalance of the economy, which can also be described as a problem of delegation."

"As the war has progressed to this point, this problem has not been fundamentally resolved. As the initiator of the Five Shadows Conference, I would like to make this proposal."

"In order to reduce hatred, the five great nations jointly reduced the number of ninja forces."

"With the focus on training elite ninjas, commissioned missions will no longer be a problem. Kirigakure has already completed some of the reforms, and the initial results are promising."

The senior member immediately offered sharp advice, almost causing the Fourth Raikage to slam his fist on the table. However, seeing his leader regain control of his emotions, the Fourth Raikage, sitting on the earthen platform above, breathed a sigh of relief.

Old Purple of Iwagakure's eyes flickered. He thought the suggestion was not bad, but when he glanced at Onoki's even redder nose, he knew that the village would definitely not agree.

Above the Hokage, Minato Namikaze remained calm, seemingly unconcerned by what the Mizukage had said. Osamu Furukawa, however, took the opportunity to observe the Mizukage's guards: "The wielder of the Executioner's Blade, Juzo Biwa, and the wielder of the Twin Swords, Hiramekarei?"

"Did Suigetsu Hozuki finally realize the problem?"

According to what Furukawa Osamu knew beforehand, all seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist had been summoned, and Suigetsu Hozuki would accompany the Mizukage to the meeting.

Now that the person has been suddenly replaced, Osamu Furukawa realizes that Kirigakure has most likely split up, but Mei Terumi is unable to access the upper echelons and has been unable to get accurate information.

"You actually want to reduce the size of the ninja force? Mizukage, don't you think that's a bit naive?"

"When the ninja village loses its power, people lose their awe!"

"Reducing the number of ninjas can indeed solve the commission problem; the Kazekage has already proven this to us."

"That brat from Konoha was a huge help; he alone killed many Sand Village ninja."

"But Iwagakure will not agree to this plan. We do not believe that the Konoha ninja, who occupy the share of the commission from the Land of Wind, would make such a decision."

Although Onoki was short, he had a very loud voice. When he said these words, he didn't forget to look at Rasa. Everyone present could hear the sarcasm in his voice.

The Mizukage wasn't angry at being refuted, but the two guards above him had cold expressions, and they could tell that the Tsuchikage didn't respect them.

"If the number of ninjas in each country is limited to a reasonable range, this plan is worth discussing."

"Power, if left unchecked, will indeed continue to expand, and when all the funds are used for war, the lives of ordinary people will also be affected."

"Konoha ninjas only protect their own homeland, and the Will of Fire they have passed down is to make the world a better place."

"Tsuchikage, there's no need to hold extreme views. Since you're here, you should speak your mind."

Hiruzen Sarutobi's leader-like posture made the Raikage, who was to Mifune's right, feel uncomfortable. If his father hadn't died, he wouldn't be being suppressed by a group of old men.

Remembering the instructions given to him by Tsuchikage and the others before he left, Raikage A tried to control his emotions, and after a moment's thought, immediately replied: "How can we ensure that the major ninja villages implement attrition warfare?"

"What should be done if someone is secretly accumulating power?"

"More importantly, even if the number of ninja units is limited, the Konoha ninjas, who occupy a larger share of the commission market, can still surpass most of the countries present here in training elite ninjas."

"Each ninja village possesses different resources, and everyone here is aware of the land of the Land of Fire."

The Fourth Raikage did not speak rashly, clearly having made many preparations. After pointing out the contradiction, he crossed his arms, leaned back in his chair, and remained silent.

Several leaders offered their opinions, and Kazekage Rasa was somewhat embarrassed at this point. However, after being reminded by Chiyo, he still gritted his teeth and stated, "The Sand Village ninjas agree with Konoha's plan."

"Unrestricted expansion will only make it difficult for the village to function. A reasonable number of ninjas can resolve many conflicts."

Rasa, leaning forward, once again chose a side. Seeing this, the Tsuchikage and Raikage's faces immediately showed displeasure; Konoha had brought their own vote...

The Third Mizukage seemed to have anticipated this situation, and with narrowed eyes, he resumed the conversation: "Controlling the number is not much different from the plan I mentioned."

"Quantity is the key."

"Since the Hokage is willing to make concessions, it means we can continue to discuss this issue."

"Tsuchikage, do you intend to prolong the war? From what I understand, your casualty rate in the Land of Grass is very high, and most of the ninja in Iwagakure are already weary of the war, aren't they?"

Onoki was furious when he heard these words. Iwagakure was indeed unable to break through Konoha's defenses, and the presence of Minato Namikaze had caused Iwagakure ninjas to abandon their missions time and again.

Over the next few minutes, the old men's pointless arguments nearly made Lei Ying leave on the spot.

Hiruzen Sarutobi readily agreed, but made no promises regarding the number of ninjas. When discussing the Land of Wind's entrusted market, he brought up the clause about taking care of the allied countries.

The Third Mizukage was the most sincere, practically a "peace envoy," but Kirigakure didn't participate in the war, so his "talk-no-jutsu" had no real effect.

Onoki was extremely irritable. There were many Iwagakure ninjas, and he was very dissatisfied with the development restriction plan. No one supported him in the meeting, so he could only roar loudly.

Mifune sighed helplessly upon seeing this scene. Limiting the number of ninjas was also beneficial to the inheritance of samurai, which was why he supported the Mizukage.

However, after seeing the progress of the meeting, the Hokage's attitude of dragging things out made him realize that Konoha would not back down when it came to fundamental interests.

"The Third Hokage agreed to this plan: after ending the war, they would accumulate strength in the Land of Wind, and then the Fourth Hokage would overturn the agreement and launch another war?"

Mifune wasn't the only one who thought this way; others had similar guesses. After all, only Konoha had gained tangible benefits from the war, and after a period of development, it would definitely become stronger.

"Everyone, now that we've reached some initial consensus, let's take a short break at noon."

"The Land of Iron is ready for this."

Mifune stood up to remind him, and the Third Mizukage slowly rose, still the first to agree.

As he put on the Mizukage's hat, the Third Mizukage reminded the group once again: "War consumes resources every moment. If possible, reach a consensus as soon as possible."

Onoki didn't refute as before. The old man had a thoughtful look on his face. He always felt that the Mizukage was not normal, and seemed to be too enthusiastic about peace.

This Mizukage, who experienced the first Five Kage Summit, has been in office for a long time, but due to Kirigakure's policy of secrecy, no one can learn about his background.

The Fourth Raikage, A, also stood up. The Hidden Mist ninja had already contacted him, but they were not from the Mizukage's faction.

He didn't know if the plan on the other side of the Mist Village could still be launched as scheduled; the old man didn't seem like a puppet who had been sidelined.

"It's a pity I can't sense malice. I really want to know what this Mizukage is thinking."

Furukawa Osamu looked at the departing Mizukage and whispered something. Minato, standing beside him, also frowned slightly. He had also noticed the Mizukage's unusual behavior; the other party was being overly enthusiastic.

When the two appeared beside Hiruzen Sarutobi, the latter also put on the Hokage hat, left the room with a relaxed expression, and casually asked in a low voice, "What do you think about controlling the number of ninjas?"

"It might be suitable for Kirigakure, but not for Konoha. Protecting the Land of Fire's territory requires ninja forces. With more commissions and funds, expansion is the strategy that everyone agrees on."

Minato gave a simple answer: he was very clear about the situation of the Jonin class, and reducing the number of ninjas would only cause conflict between ninja clans and civilian ninjas.

"Ninjas who are not suited for combat could consider pursuing other professions."

"Chakra can be used in other areas. Besides medicine, the industry of the Land of Lightning is also a direction to consider."

Osamu Furukawa offered his answer: based on his observations, not many graduates of the Ninja Academy are suited for combat, and using chakra solely for fighting is somewhat wasteful.

Hiruzen Sarutobi nodded, adjusting his Hokage hat. Konoha needed to expand systematically in all aspects, but this task would have to be left to Tsunade: "Very good. Stay vigilant while relaxing a bit."

"There's no danger, at least not until the meeting ends."

The ninjas from small countries are also paying attention to the progress of the talks between the five major powers, since their survival often depends on the nearby major powers.

Upon learning that the five great nations had essentially reached a ceasefire agreement on the second day of the meeting, the ninjas of the Land of Grass, the Land of Hot Springs, and the Land of Frost all breathed a sigh of relief.

If the war continues, they will continue to be "bleeded dry," as even the burden of supplying some of the materials is painful for small countries.

The talks in the Land of Iron were mainly a stage for the old men. The Fourth Kazekage and the Fourth Raikage could not get a word in edgewise most of the time. Although the Cloud Village ninjas were very strong, they were not stronger than those of Konoha.

The Fourth Raikage's individual strength was also similar; he was suppressed by Osamu Furukawa on the battlefield and often needed the support of a Jinchūriki.

This situation led the elders to rarely heed his advice. The Fourth Raikage endured it for two days, but on the third day, he finally snapped. Facing accusations at the meeting, he roared for the first time: "The Cloud Village ninja also have their own difficulties. If they want to better protect the village, they need to plunder!"

"Since you've chosen to become a ninja, weakness is a cardinal sin."

These words were originally intended to defend Rasa's accusations, but the Cloud Village ninjas have been robbing secret techniques everywhere for so many years. Not only have the other four major countries suffered from plunder, but smaller countries have also suffered in silence.

After the contents of the meeting were leaked, envoys from small countries stationed in the Land of Iron launched a joint protest.

The innkeeper of the Land of Iron made a fortune, and more and more ninjas gathered. Regardless of the outcome of the meeting, the people of the neutral country all benefited this time.

On the last day of the meeting, after being reminded by Tsuchida, the Fourth Raikage A had no choice but to restrain his volatile temper and let the three old men take the lead in the meeting.

"It seems we have reached a consensus. The rest of the work will be left to the daimyo."

"I believe that gradually raising the selection standards for ninjas and reducing the burden of delegation is a reasonable policy."

"This is probably my final contribution after experiencing the original Five Kage Summit!"

"This turbulent world needs peace; war is not the only way to resolve conflicts."

The Water Shadow squinted and spoke these words calmly. The Raikage Ai almost rolled his eyes on the spot. These old men were all ridiculously arrogant and had not really considered his suggestion at all.

Neither Onoki nor Hiruzen Sarutobi had personally participated in the First Five Kage Summit, and upon hearing the old man's words, they both nodded in agreement.

Iwagakure didn't want to continue this drain, and Konoha needed time to digest the market entrusted by the Land of Wind. Both agreed to a ceasefire and to manage the village's internal affairs.

"Since Lord Mizukage's proposal has been approved, let's sign this peace agreement together."

Although the number of ninjas could not be reduced immediately, Mifune was still very happy. As one of the initiators, this Five Kage Summit would also enhance his reputation.

"It went so smoothly?"

Minato Namikaze murmured in surprise. These days, apart from his guard duties, he spent the rest of his time taking photos and enjoying the food of the Land of Iron.

Furukawa Osamu quietly activated Sage Mode, and the Hundred Healings Seal flickered slightly. In his perception, there was another kind of chakra fluctuation on the Mizukage.

Compared to the previous few days, the fluctuations have increased significantly, and the old man's words sound more like a farewell.

"If he chooses to travel with us, we need to be extra careful."

Furukawa Osamu gently reminded him, and Minato didn't question it, nodding seriously. Under the watchful eyes of everyone in the room, the five Kage each signed their names on the agreement.

"Hokage, would you mind chatting with this old man on the way?"

Upon hearing the Mizukage's suggestion, Onoki rolled his eyes and chuckled, saying, "I don't want to take another boat ride anyway, so I'll walk with you for a while."

"Hmph! What a boring meeting."

The Fourth Raikage ignored the three old men, turned around and left, leaving Tsuchikage behind to apologize in a low voice.

Chiyo looked at the three of them thoughtfully, then whispered something to Rasa, who was about to leave. In the end, the Fourth Kazekage and his group decided to stay for a day, and Mifune welcomed them with a smile.

In the afternoon, in the southwestern part of the Land of Iron, far from Mount Sanrou, the three old men looked back simultaneously. Further ahead lay a vast pine forest; they should part ways here.

"What a beautiful snow scene! A completely different view from Kirigakure."

"Mizukage, there's no need to beat around the bush. Just say what you have to say."

Onoki feigned annoyance and complained, while Rōshi and Kōtsuchi behind him looked at the group warily.

"Yes, at our age, there's no need to beat around the bush anymore."

Hiruzen Sarutobi, adjusting his Hokage hat, glanced sideways at the Mizukage. The meeting had surprised him; the other party genuinely came with great sincerity to call for peace.

Shuiying still squinted, seemingly enjoying the cold weather. When she turned to look at the two of them, she inexplicably said, "I have achieved my wish. Now, it's your final dance."

The Mizukage suddenly raised his left and right hands slightly, and without any warning, used a ninjutsu. The water droplets that burst from his fingertips disappeared with a bang, as if breaking the sound barrier: "Water Gun Technique!"

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