Konoha: This Uchiha is going a bit too far.

Chapter 202: Their Individual Changes and the Conspiracy Behind the Chunin Exams

"Shikamaru, Choji, and Ino, you're all here!"

Inside the movie theater, Naruto cheered and abandoned Minato and Kushina, skipping and hopping towards Shikamaru and the other two.

"You're here too, Naruto."

Shikamaru still looked lazy, as if he hadn't woken up properly. Choji, while munching on potato chips, waved to Naruto with his hand raised.

Ino, on the other hand, seemed much more reserved now, but from the corner of her eye, it was clear that she wasn't interested in movies about life and death.

However, this is quite normal. Ever since Konoha started using movies on a large scale for publicity purposes, they've made all sorts of movies.

Whether it's a war movie, a romance movie, or a story about saving a village, there's bound to be a film that suits your taste.

Besides, everyone here is a ninja, and they will naturally have to face battles in the future. Therefore, there is no such thing as "no bloodshed" in terms of combat.

Moreover, the filming was strictly conducted according to the requirements of ninjas in battle, striving to maintain authenticity. I don't know how many little ones were scared by such filming.

The bloody scenes were too much for these little ones to bear, but their parents strongly agreed, as they themselves had once been ninjas fighting on the silver screen.

Therefore, war-themed movies have always been popular with little girls, and Ino was dragged here by her parents this time.

After all, this movie was made by Naruto himself.

"Slow down, Naruto."

Kushina called out to Naruto from behind, clearly annoyed, while Minato smiled and nodded to Shikaku and the others.

Good evening, everyone.

"You're too kind, sir."

Shikaku immediately smiled and nodded to Minato, while Yamanaka Inoichi and Akimichi Choza beside him also laughed.

They were originally friends, and they witnessed Minato's rise to power, as well as his misfortune of being tricked by Danzo.

However, Yuki was a good Hokage, an excellent Hokage in every aspect. Even when Minato was unlucky, he was still the Hokage who assisted him.

"You said I was being polite, but aren't you all being even more polite now?"

Minato smiled and shook his head, then turned to look around, his smile widening.

"There are so many people tonight. It seems everyone is really looking forward to Naruto's work."

"Of course, after all, this time is crucial."

Lu Jiu smiled and nodded, but there was something else in his words.

Clearly, in his view, this is not just a simple movie; the political significance of this film is far too great.

What is the most important aspect of the war of public opinion?

Naturally, you need to make others believe what you say, act according to your ideas, be assimilated by your ideas, and then undergo some changes.

Although this movie was proposed many years ago, it's about the Third Shinobi World War and the Hidden Mist War.

However, the core value here is to promote what they have been subtly advocating for years—that we are all the same kind of people!

Since they are all the same people, a question will always arise: why are there so many villages?

These things are deadly. Even though the idea is still somewhat hidden, the concept that "we are all the same" is no longer concealed at all!

It's still unknown what kind of effect this movie will have, but once its ideas take root, it will be unbearable for other villages.

"Hey, hey, hey, this is a time for rest, let's not talk about work, okay?"

Kushina raised an eyebrow as she listened to their conversation and spoke up.

"Yes, yes, let's go in. But we see a lot of familiar faces today."

Minato smiled as he took Kushina's hand, nodded to Shikamaru and the others, and then spoke to Kushina with a smile.

"Of course, after all, this movie is quite interesting."

Kushina smiled and nodded. Of course, she knew that there were other meanings in the books and movies over the years, but she didn't care at all.

She prefers to enjoy the movie itself, especially when the family of three is relaxing and watching a movie together, which is her favorite thing to do.

"Besides, it's more enjoyable to travel as a family of three."

Kushina smiled brightly. Although she was initially somewhat unhappy that Minato was tricked into stepping down, her thoughts had changed over the years.

She even wants to thank Danzo now. Although Danzo caused trouble for Minato, Minato is not so busy now and has more time to take care of the family.

In her view, this didn't seem like such a bad thing.

"This movie is a bit too gory. There's nothing inherently wrong with it, but how can children accept it so easily?"

While Kushina was making her comments, the movie theater was already quite full.

Yahiko and Gaara barely managed to squeeze in and find their seats. Looking at the sea of ​​people, he was also a bit overwhelmed.

"Wow, there are so many people!"

"That's natural. After all, it's said that the Hokage himself supervised its production, so how could it not be popular?"

He had just opened his mouth when a voice rang out beside him. Turning his head, he saw a woman with red hair, and everyone around her was wearing a headband from the Mist Shadow faction.

"Hello, messengers from Kirigakure."

Looking at the person in front of him, Yahiko couldn't help but smile and say something.

"I never expected to meet you here, it's a pleasure to meet you."

Besides the Land of Rain, other small countries and even the Hidden Mist Village also sent people to Konoha this time.

However, they arrived at different times, so Yahiko hadn't actually run into them before. He never expected to meet them at the movie theater.

"Nice to meet you."

Mei Terumi smiled and nodded. She recognized that the person in front of her was from the Land of Rain, but she didn't have any particular thoughts about it.

She was quite familiar with the people of the Land of Rain, after all, she was often used as a liaison and envoy in Onoki's "Five Kage Alliance".

She's already familiar with many people, and she knows a lot about things.

In truth, she wasn't initially very optimistic about Elder Yuanshi's (the current Fifth Mizukage's) decision to "follow Konoha."

Don't be fooled by the fact that Wuyin is now trying to "make two birds with one stone"; all of its core members understand exactly how Yuan Shi made his choice.

As for the so-called "two ways to eat one fish," it was just an act for others to see. Mei Terumi was actually quite upset about this decision at first.

Although Konoha is strong, Kirigakure can't just follow others, can they?

However, as Konoha's aid gradually arrived, more and more agreements were reached between Kirigakure and Konoha, and the volume of trade between the two sides increased, many things began to change.

With money, things can naturally change. The first thing Master Yuan did was to abolish the "Blood Mist Policy" and restore the normal ninja training model.

At the same time, increased trade with Konoha improved the previously resource-scarce Land of Water.

In addition, the exploration conducted in Konoha created job opportunities, giving many people stable incomes and improving their living standards.

Even though the once lifeless Mist Village is still shrouded in mist, it has indeed begun to regain its vitality!

Furthermore, after the people's material conditions improved, Konoha immediately exported various cultural products, which greatly satisfied the spiritual needs of the people of the Land of Water.

"These things clearly reflect a value orientation that favors Konoha."

Mei Terumi has always enjoyed watching these cultural products, whether they are movies or books. However, being an intelligent person, she naturally sees some of the problems within them.

But even though it's obvious, there's nothing anyone can do about it, and besides, everyone has gradually accepted that idea.

Are they all the same kind of people?

Mei Terumi leaned back slightly. She actually felt that there was some truth to that, because a key point had been mentioned in many of the books she had read.

They are all the same in culture, language and history, so why should they be separated?

These words seem somewhat 'rebellious' in today's context, considering the large number of countries and ninja villages, and the fact that the current system was established by the First Hokage of Konoha.

Surely the Fifth Hokage wouldn't pull off a "Reversed Heavenly Gang" move, would he?

Although this Hokage doesn't have a very good reputation in other villages, he might genuinely have such thoughts.

"Forget it, let's just watch the movie."

Mei Terumi shook her head, too lazy to think about it anymore. She glanced at the people from the Land of Rain who had found seats, then at the little ones she had brought, before turning her gaze to the screen.

These little guys are the future of Kirigakure, but probably not many of them will succeed in this assessment.

"I'm afraid only that brat Hozuki Suigetsu has a chance. After all, he's Hozuki Mangetsu's younger brother."

She didn't really care about this assessment; it was just a necessary assessment for genin, and it could be considered an experimental joint assessment.

This can be seen as Konoha preparing for next year's Chunin Exams, since according to reliable information, Konoha plans to invite all the villages to participate together.

Do you want to fully express your ideas?

Mei Terumi made her judgment, but it wasn't a big deal; Kirigakure had already established its own pace.

In the future, she is likely to be one of the candidates to succeed the Sixth Mizukage, just like Hozuki Mangetsu.

However, whoever it is, they will probably continue to move forward according to the current plan, and no one can change that!

"Why think so much? Let's just enjoy the movie. They went all the way to Kirigakure to film so much, but we still don't know what the actual content is."

Mei Terumi put aside the jumbled thoughts in her mind and focused on the big screen. Just then, a commotion broke out in the venue.

This piqued her curiosity, and she turned to look. She saw Yuzhi enter the cinema with light on her face, and then head straight for the best viewing spot.

"Tch, all the good spots are taken."

Mei Terumi pursed her lips and mentally complained, but no matter how much she complained, it wouldn't affect Yuri's condition.

As the Hokage, the place where Hagoromo travels would naturally be the best, especially since he was the one who created this movie.

He didn't need to say anything; his guards had already taken the best seats. Yuzhi only needed to come over and sit down.

"Lord Hokage."

"That's enough, it's time to rest. If you keep this up, I'm going to get angry, Lin."

Upon seeing Yuzhi and Hikaru, Lin immediately stood up with a smile, but she was interrupted by Yuzhi as soon as she opened her mouth.

Yuzhi pressed her shoulder to help her sit down again, and then he found a seat and sat down, smiling as he spoke.

"You guys should all relax a bit. Watching a movie and talking about Naruto all day long is tiring, isn't it? Besides, everyone here is a friend or relative, so let's skip that."

Yuri's position was indeed surrounded by friends and relatives. Behind him were Mikoto and Sasuke, who had arrived long ago, while Minato and Kushina were beside them.

The group was surrounded by high-ranking Konoha officials and their families, including the Ino-Shika-Cho trio. The kids had gathered together again, and Neji was playing with them.

In front of Yuki were his Shadow Guard members, as well as old friends like Kakashi and Guy.

"Yeah, you don't need to be so serious when you're resting."

Kakashi nodded and smiled in response.

Over the years, these old friends of the haori have all undergone tremendous changes.

Although Kakashi has not yet left the Anbu, his life is increasingly resembling that of a "normal ninja," with many of the Anbu's tasks now being delegated to his father.

To be honest, Yuzhi didn't know if this was "hoping her father would become a dragon" or if this guy was just really lazy.

But regardless, everything is going well in the Anbu now, and Hatake Sakumo is now a true 'Konoha Anbu Chief'.

"Fire Feather Orchid, can you give me a spoiler?"

Akai seemed very curious, and he leaned closer and asked in a low voice.

"I can't wait to see what kind of plot unfolds this time!"

"Idiot, can't you just behave yourself? What's the point of spoilers?"

Asuma rolled his eyes and complained to Kai.

"And you still have the mind to watch a movie? Are you about to become a Jonin leader? Don't you dare corrupt your students."

Guy is now a Jonin, and his story is widely known in Konoha. If it weren't for the fact that Hagoromo's story is even more inspiring, someone would probably have wanted to make a movie about him long ago.

Guy is still considered a mission ninja, but this year he has been given a new mission: to become a Jonin leader and guide young, talented Genin.

The world of ninjas is still very cruel; not everyone who graduates will be led by a Jonin.

Only those talented genin who are recognized as the future of Konoha or who can become pillars of the village will be led by jonin mentors.

The others, their team leaders might just be Chunin.

Chunin leaders might teach a team some things if they encounter someone serious, but they won't teach much if they encounter someone who is just responsible for guiding them to "familiarize themselves with the business".

It's enough to familiarize these young genin with the mission process, let them know what to do when they encounter problems, and how to fill out forms.

Then, guide them through the missions until they become Chunin, which will complete the mission.

These genin, after becoming chunin, generally only have three paths: either repeat their experience as team leaders and become one of Konoha's "multitude of chunin".

They can either return to school to teach and help Konoha select outstanding talents, or they can become clerical staff and leave their front-line combat positions.

As a Jonin, Guy's task is naturally to lead those selected who meet Konoha's criteria for "geniuses".

Of course, he could also choose some of his favorite ninjas as his disciples, as Rock Lee did in the original work.

"Don't worry, they will definitely become Konoha's most hardworking geniuses!"

Kai didn't care at all about Asuma's complaints; after so many years, he was naturally familiar with Asuma's style.

"But you, as a member of the Shadow Guard, actually came to watch a movie, didn't you?"

"Don't talk nonsense. Can't you see the haori is right here? We're protecting the Hokage, that's part of the job."

Before Kai could finish speaking, Asuma smiled and gestured with his head towards the direction of the haori, while Aoba, standing to the side, couldn't help but sigh.

"Besides, you have no idea what we've suffered."

Aoba's words left the Shadow Guard members speechless, except for Lin, who blinked as if she didn't feel much.

When Yuzhi gave them the cursed seal, it was naturally so that they could learn Sage Mode, but Yuzhi had also made some assumptions.

Perhaps due to his 'empiricism', he, along with Light and Still Water, were able to withstand the forces of nature and suppress them through their own power.

But this doesn't mean that others can do it easily, and the result is that Asma and others suffer.

The pain of being covered by the cursed seal and invaded by natural forces almost drove them insane. Under such pain, they had no energy left to control the power of the cursed seal.

Lin is the only one in good condition, and her progress is the fastest.

After witnessing the power Lin displayed upon activating the cursed seal, the others unanimously made a decision.

"No matter how painful it is, we must continue!"

Therefore, in the following years, they continued to suffer the torment of the cursed seal, and gradually digested and utilized the power within the cursed seal.

Now they can easily wield these powers, though the process has been somewhat arduous.

"Alright, let's not talk about this anymore. After all, you all made it through, didn't you?"

Yuzhi interrupted them with a smile. He knew about the difficulties Asuma and the others had faced over the years, but thankfully they had made it through. Besides, it wouldn't be good to continue talking about it.

"The movie's started, everyone, so enjoy it! We'll have a lot to do afterwards."

-

While Konoha was happily watching the movie, in Iwagakure, Onoki was staring intently at the screen.

In the center of the screen are the shadows of various villages.

"Everyone, I think you've all received the message, right?"

Onoki spoke with a furrowed brow, appearing to be in a rather poor mental state.

Or rather, his mental state has always seemed rather poor over the years.

Konoha is too powerful; they really can't stand it anymore.

Although Konoha has been relatively quiet in recent years, its influence has been permeating every aspect of life, and they are all currently pondering something.

"Damn it, we underestimated Uchiha Hagoromo!"

Konoha did not launch an attack, nor did it use its powerful military force to do anything to other small countries or villages.

But what they've done now makes Onoki feel particularly disheartened; these guys are actually using cultural products to cause trouble!

First came the "Best Work Award," then the "Best Film Award," and these things began to spread through the borders, through the Land of Rain, and even through the Hidden Mist Village.

Such dissemination naturally reached deep into the Land of Earth, and many people looked through these things out of curiosity.

At first, Onoki didn't care at all, after all, he had a preconceived notion.

Yuri is a member of the Uchiha clan, and Uchiha people are often a group of guys who prefer to solve problems with force.

They will try to reason with you, but if reasoning fails, they will directly attack you without any further words!

In his view, Yuzhi has already reached the level of Madara Uchiha. Would this guy try to reason with you "patiently and persuasively"?

That's impossible. He could just kill you with one punch. He could solve the problem by addressing the root cause.

But now it seems that this guy is not a brute at all; his heart is filthy beyond imagination!

As those "award-winning works" continued to flow in, the people of the Land of Earth, the Land of Wind, and the Land of Thunder gradually began to see those so-called works.

Furthermore, many of the subtle ideas within those works began to circulate in people's minds, even though they were all subtle and difficult for people to perceive.

But such gentle breezes and fine rains always leave a seed in people's hearts!

Ōnoki realized there was a problem, but it was too late.

As the outpost of the struggle between the two sides, the Land of Rain can almost be seen as having fallen to Konoha.

Moreover, thanks to Konoha, the quality of life for everyone in the Land of Rain has greatly improved, which is something that countless residents of small countries yearn for.

If this continues, who knows what will happen!

Onoki and his team did take some countermeasures, such as filming and writing related materials themselves, and waging a media war if necessary.

But when they started working on it, they were shocked to discover that all the best authors had been snatched up by Konoha.

Those frustrated and unsuccessful individuals can still make a living, but they don't get much publicity and can't amount to anything.

"Especially those awards."

Those so-called awards are like business cards; ordinary people don't know the quality of books or movies, or what they're really like.

But looking at that series of awards, even without much publicity here, they are still the most sought-after!

What's worse, Onoki didn't dare to ban it, because he knew very well that people are rebellious, and the more you ban something, the more they want to see it.

Fortunately, Konoha seemed to have become a bit arrogant, and they made a decision that even Onoki found unbelievable.

"We've received word that Konoha will be hosting the Chunin Exams next year, and we've all been invited."

The Fourth Raikage spoke in a muffled voice, looking particularly agitated, clearly suffering from Konoha's "cultural offensive."

Luo Sha nodded on the screen, his face grim, after all, they were the poorest and were the most severely affected.

"Shadows of the Land of Rain, I hope you can do something to stop those things from getting in!"

Perhaps unable to hold back any longer, he suddenly turned his head to look at the head of the Rain Country ninja that Nagato was disguised as, and shouted at him.

"There are some things we can't control. We border Konoha, and the pressure we face is unimaginable. After all, we are just a small country, and there's nothing we can do about it."

Nagato's expression remained unchanged as he spoke calmly.

He had encountered this situation countless times, so he was already used to it and knew how to deal with it.

"Now is not the time to argue, everyone."

When Onoki saw this, he immediately stopped them, saying that if they kept arguing, none of them would be able to get along.

"Our focus right now should be on the Chunin Exams a year from now in Konoha. That's what we need to deal with and think about most!"

"Oonoki, what are your thoughts?"

The Fourth Raikage frowned and looked at Onoki with a puzzled expression.

"Do you intend to use this Chunin Exams to do something to Konoha?"

The Fourth Raikage's words instantly silenced everyone present, their eyes revealing a strange glint.

Some were fearful, some were excited, some questioned, but some were also deep in thought.

"Is that not allowed?"

Upon seeing this, Onoki spoke directly, his voice calm yet full of determination.

"Konoha has become arrogant. They probably held the Chunin Exams to announce their achievements and to tell the ninja world that no one in the entire ninja world will disobey them!"

We can refuse, of course, but refusing them would only make us seem petty and cowardly, while they wouldn't care about anything at all.

They have the capability, after all, they are the wealthiest and most powerful, but I think this is also their weakness.

Inviting us all at once and expecting us all to obey his orders is a sign of arrogance!

Onoki's words were somewhat far-fetched, but no one present spoke up, because they were also genuinely feeling uneasy about Konoha's situation.

If this continues, no one knows how it will develop; the cultural offensive has already made them somewhat uneasy.

"Everyone, if we do nothing, Konoha's ideas will continue to infiltrate, and may even cause us to lose control of the village and the country."

Onoki grasped this point as well. He knew what the people present were thinking, so he continued in a deep voice.

"We must retaliate; we must show Konoha our resolve!"

Moreover, if we succeed, we can naturally share the spoils; if we fail, at least we can unite people's hearts and minds and eliminate the troubles left behind in our country and villages.

Everyone, think about this carefully. I know this idea is hard to accept right now. We still have a year, but planning will take at least six months.

Therefore, we must think carefully about our future, the future of all of us, our village, and our country!

So, everyone, whether you go all in or slowly succumb to Zen and eventually become part of Konoha, it all depends on your decision.

(End of this chapter)