In the office, Hiruzen picked up the report presented by the ANBU, opened it and read it carefully.
In terms of the extent of the damage, since the battlefields were mainly concentrated in the northeast and southeast areas of the village, as well as the Death Forest area, the area of damage to the buildings in the village was actually very limited, and it was not difficult to rebuild them.
With the inventory stored in Konoha, operations can be resumed in a short time without any major problems.
But the real problem is that after this turmoil, Konoha lost nearly a hundred ninjas. About ten jounin died in the battle, half of which were contributed by the Hyuga clan.
In addition, if you count the several Jonin who defected from the Uchiha clan and the Hyuga clan, it would be enough to break Konoha's muscles and bones.
The combat power of a dozen jounin-level warriors, placed on the battlefield, is fully capable of supporting a small-scale ninja battle.
Ignoring these huge losses, the departing Uchiha and Hyuga clan ninjas are all special ninjas within the limits of blood inheritance. This is where Hiruzen really finds it difficult.
If this matter is announced, the impact on Konoha's reputation will be too bad.
Especially during this sensitive time period of the war, it will definitely cause panic among internal personnel, as well as unbridled gloating and ridicule from the enemy.
At this moment, the door of the office rang, and the two consultants Minato Gate and Koharu Koharu walked in first, followed by the root leader Shimura Danzo behind them.
The ANBU ninjas who were waiting nearby saw this scene and took the initiative to use the teleportation technique to leave and step aside, leaving space for the higher-ups of these villages.
The three of them entered the office and stood there without saying a word. Finally, they went to bed. Koharu broke the oppressive silence and asked Hiruzen, "How are you going to deal with this matter?"
"I intend to downplay the impact of this defection."
Hiruzen sighed and looked directly into Koharu's bed.
"Is there a gag order?"
"Pursuing the punishment for the principal culprit's defection will dilute the presence of the others." Hiruzen paused and continued: "When the incident occurred, the eyes of the ninjas in the village were attracted to the Kyuubi, so for Uchiha and Hinata I don’t know much about the situation over there. Even if someone guesses it, it’s only a small number of ninjas. I’ve asked them to keep it a secret.”
After turning to bed, Koharu and Mito Kadoyan looked at each other and nodded. This was indeed a solution.
Provide information about the two main criminals, Chiba Shiraishi and Uchiha Ruri, and downplay the existence of the other accomplices.
Now is the time of war, so allowing these accomplices to continue to 'sacrifice' on the frontline battlefields as Konoha ninjas can clearly explain why these people have also 'disappeared' from the village.
But I also know that this is not a long-term solution. As for being dug out in the future, we can deal with it later.
The reason for the riot and fire in the Hyuga clan's territory on the night of the incident can be explained by the fact that they were attacked by a powerful enemy. After the Hyuga clan ninjas went all out, they finally eliminated the enemy, and relatively sacrificed some Hyuga ninjas.
The most important thing now is to ensure the morale of Konoha ninja and minimize the loss of the village's reputation.
As for the two main criminals, Chiba Shiraishi and Uchiha Ruri, they were too conspicuous and therefore could not be downplayed.
And when such a big thing happened, there had to be a reasonable explanation. Nailing the two of them on the pillar of shame so that the Konoha ninjas could share the same hatred would be a good way to divert attention.
"Danzo, what do you think?"
Hiruzen looked at Danzo and asked for his opinion.
On the night of the turmoil, Danzo's hard-working performance also made him feel gratified. In the critical moment of the village, he was able to stand up and fight the enemy without hesitation, fight side by side with his companions in the village, and shoulder the responsibilities and responsibilities that a Konoha ninja should have.
"There is news from Uchiha that all Uchiha are retreating to retire."
Danzo said something unrelated to the current topic.
"A dangerous name. He has lived from the Warring States Period to the present... He really lives a long life."
When he went to bed, Xiaochun had a look of fear on his face.
Shitaka Uchiha is one of the few ninjas in Konoha who has survived from the Warring States Period to this day.
"When Hiruzen succeeded to the position of Hokage, the old guy was trying his best to cleanse the voices within Uchiha. Not long after, Mirror suddenly died in a mysterious mission... This has to make people think of some bad things."
Mito Kadeni sighed.
Since then, their surveillance of Uchiha has been completely stopped.
Without the Uchiha Mirror to provide them with information, the Uchiha clan completely lost control and became a taboo area where they could not interfere at will.
"Let's not talk about meaningless speculations. Jing just died in the mission unfortunately."
Hiruzen didn't want to make these meaningless speculations. After all, they had no evidence to prove that the Uchiha mirror died at the hands of one of the Uchiha's own people.
It is normal for ninjas to die in the line of duty.
"However, it's such a coincidence that the old guy abdicated at this time... Then who is the Uchiha talker now?"
Xiaochun asked when he went to bed.
"Uchiha Fugaku."
Danzo replied.
The answer given by Danzo did not surprise Hiruzen and the others.
Uchiha Ruri has defected and has become an extremely dangerous S-class defected ninja. Now among the younger generation of Uchiha, the only one who can take the lead is Uchiha Fugaku.
"Just pay attention. As long as that old guy doesn't continue to live in seclusion in Uchiha and govern behind the curtain, there will be no problem."
At this time, Mito Kadoen handed over a form and placed it on Hiruzen's desk.
"This is?"
"The branch pharmacy of Ziyuanhua Company has been affected by the previous turmoil, and some medicines seem to have been damaged. Although they have not asked for compensation yet, I think it is better to deal with it as soon as possible. We cannot damage the reputation of the village at this time. .”
"After that, I will send someone to negotiate and compensate them 10% higher than the sales price."
This is a mistake caused by Konoha's poor supervision. Shionka Company is the biggest innocent party. Konoha must take the initiative to bear this responsibility.
Even if the Kingdom of Ghosts is a neutral country and is far away from the Kingdom of Fire, its relationship cannot be ruined.
The Country of Fire and Konoha do not seem to be short on funds, so they have the confidence to undertake it.
Mito Menyan nodded, he also meant the same thing.
At this time, it would be good to win over an ally. Besides, Shionhua Company has promised to provide Konoha with medical supplies during the war, which can save Konoha a lot of energy.
If you think about it carefully, Ziyuanhua Company is really a timely help.
This neutral ally who can solve part of the medical pressure has indeed doubled their goodwill.
After Danzo and the other three left, Hiruzen picked up the cigarette rod on the table and smoked hard.
Ahem.
Take out a slightly thin information document from the drawer.
There is a name written on the top - Chiba Shiraishi.
There are also several photos posted below, including a group photo of Sakumo's team, as well as photos of his school days, genin days, and teenage years.
There are many comments from teachers on the evaluation column.
——Students who are studious, kind and hard-working. He is often seen reading books in the library and borrows books every week. I am very interested in medical things. Can be cultivated according to their interests. (Chūnin Fujimura Taiga)
——My talent in medical ninjutsu is average. I can’t have high hopes for it, but my medical ability won’t disappoint anyone either. Although the knowledge reserve is sufficient, becoming a first-class medical ninja still lacks flexibility. But with hard work, you can become the best among the first-class medical ninjas. (Anbu medical jounin)
——Understand the position of a medical ninja when performing tasks, never act impulsively, be calm and composed, understand his own shortcomings and advantages, and be responsible for the lives of his companions... It can be said that he is afraid of death, but because of this, he is undoubtedly qualified as a medical ninja , is the medical core of the team. Allowed to stay in the team. (Jounin Hatake Sakumo)
——He has an amazing amount of knowledge, occasionally comes up with some unexpected suggestions, and has excellent teaching ability. Students like him very much. (Jounin Tsunade)
——The outstanding Chunin who inherited the will of fire, the bridge connecting the village and Uchiha. (Hokage Sarutobi Hiruzen)
"..."
Hiruzen let out a breath and looked at the last comment. A mocking smile seemed to appear on it.
To him, this was so dazzling and angry.
Take out your black pen, cross out the last comment, and write another sentence.
——Good at hiding and cruel in temperament. The level of medical treatment is unknown, and the ability of ninjutsu is unknown... Ninjas who are like shadows in the fog are extremely dangerous.
"Send this document to the Intelligence Department."
Hiruzen closed the document and spoke to the air.
"Yes, Hokage-sama."
Anbu appeared from the side, picked up the information document, and then used the teleportation technique to leave and go to the intelligence department.
◎
Uchiha clan land.
Liuli's original residence has been taken over and controlled by ANBU.
"Is this all?"
Every room and every thing was searched carefully.
However, the things collected were just normal ornaments. In addition, there were some books related to basic medical ninjutsu.
Even if you want to find anything useful from it, it is completely impossible.
"Yeah. That's all. A lot of the rooms are empty."
Answer the ANBU squad leader's words.
"It's all pretty routine stuff, nothing unusual."
The ANBU squad leader picked up each book, looked through it briefly, and then closed it.
"Do you want to take them all back?"
"Of course, take them all away and send them to the Intelligence Department. Although I don't think we can get any useful information from this, it is also part of the job. No one can be left behind."
The ANBU squad leader ordered his subordinates.
The rest of the ANBU personnel nodded, collected all the objects, books, and even some suspicious scrolls, put them in a huge box, and transported them outside one by one.
"However, I didn't expect that this ordinary-looking guy could turn out to be such a dangerous existence."
During the transportation process, an ANBU ninja sighed.
"Yes, we were on the battlefield and there was no room for us to take action. Just feeling the atmosphere made me almost suffocate."
The ANBU squad leader also sighed.
If that could be considered the level of a ninja, it would be really scary.
The feeling that life may pass away at any time is like being in the core area of the battlefield and not knowing when the enemy will take away your life.
Life and death are not autonomous.
"Um, excuse me..."
Just as they were transporting things outside, a soft voice intervened.
It was a girl with short brown hair, about eight or nine years old.
Next to her was an Uchiha boy wearing visors.
"Who are you? What's the matter?"
When they saw someone coming, the ANBU didn't pay much attention. When they were searching here before, there were many people watching here.
"I am Nohara Rin, a student at the Ninja School. Well, I want to ask about Shiraishi-senpai... I heard that he defected. Is this true?"
There was a certain hope on Lin's face. She still can't believe that this is true.
"It's true. Also, don't call him senpai. He is just a dangerous rebellious nin now. There was such a big commotion in the village that night, did you feel it? It was him and others who did it."
The ANBU squad leader had seen this kind of thing happen many times, but he patiently explained it.
It is uncomfortable for anyone to have a respected senior or close friend defect.
But this is the profession of ninja, which is often accompanied by parting and death.
"How could it be...is there any misunderstanding here?"
"Misunderstanding? With so many people dead, a misunderstanding cannot be solved with a simple word. Give up your illusions. I saw his coldness and ruthlessness with my own eyes that night. No matter how you try to defend him, he is definitely not what you think he is. That respectable medical ninja senior. Next time you meet him, he will kill you without hesitation. It is best to give up this boring fantasy as soon as possible. "
The ANBU squad leader said in a calm tone.
Ignoring Lin who was stunned there, she carried the things away and left.
"Captain, isn't this too cruel? She is still a student of the ninja school..."
The ANBU member said.
Although they abandoned their apparent identities, they did not want such young children to be exposed to the cruel side of the world so quickly.
"This happened to her, and there was nothing I could do about it. Rather than letting her have this illusion, it would be better to cut it off directly. To deceive her is the real cruelty and harm. The other party is a defecting ninja, and he won't Since they are former companions, I will keep them."
"I really hope she can come out of the shadows."
"Then bless her."
"By the way, Captain, do you think they defected because of what happened with Sakumo Jounin..."
The ANBU personnel seemed to have thought of something and lowered their voices.
"Don't just talk about this without evidence."
The ANBU squad leader gave him a cold look.
The ANBU ninja shut up and stopped talking.
"Lin, are you still thinking about that guy?"
Watching the ANBU lift up the boxes filled with items and leave, the Uchiha boy next to Lin, Obito Uchiha, looked at Lin with worried eyes.
"Senior Shiraishi, why would he..."
Hearing Lin say this, Obito knew that Lin was still hoping that this matter was false.
Obito turned his head silently, passed the door, and looked at the empty courtyard inside. There was no one in this luxurious residence.
That bastard! It made Lin so sad! I will never let you go next time I see you! Obito clenched his fists with determination.
In order to make Lin happy, she must give that person a good beating to get rid of his bad temper!
"Lin, I promise you, sooner or later I will find that guy and ask him why he left the village. This matter is all mine! I am an elite ninja of the Uchiha clan!"
Obito assured Rin seriously.
"Well, thank you, Obito...I'm fine now."
Seeing Lin still forcing herself, Obito felt a pang in his heart.
Ahhhhh, that bastard is dead, I must beat him to death, how dare you make Lin so sad! Obito's heart was filled with anger and dissatisfaction with Shiraishi.
◎
after one day--
The capital of the Fire Nation, Ziyuanhua Branch Pharmacy.
"Chief, this is the latest wanted notice issued by Konoha."
After knocking on the door and getting permission, the insect man came in from the outside, brought the news to Shiraishi, and placed a copy of the wanted list published by Konoha in front of Shiraishi.
Shiraishi picked it up with interest.
Chong Man said from the side: "To be honest, this wanted order was released a little later than expected."
With Konoha's mobility, it was impossible to release the wanted order so slowly.
They are still in the Country of Fire. According to the past speed, they should have arrived yesterday. The other countries will also receive the wanted list in two or three days.
As a result, they stayed in the Fire Country and only received the wanted list today.
"After all, they have to consider the balance of all aspects and minimize the impact. The wanted list is the least of their concerns. It is expected that it will be released later."
As for the chasing troops, now Iwagakure has also joined the battle. After seeing the strength they showed that night, as long as there is no brain problem, you should know that the most important thing now is not to deal with these rebellious ninjas.
If we lose this war, even if we succeed in pursuing these traitorous ninjas, it will be meaningless and we will lose our troops.
Shiraishi read the wanted notice that Konoha could not send out, and it was basically in line with his expectations.
——Konoha ninja Chiba Shiraishi, a chuunin, the purpose of defecting is unknown, and he is accused of attacking the village and killing his colleagues. This person is extremely dangerous and is now declared an 'S' level rebel ninja.
As for Ayane... she doesn't even exist, she just omits it.
I guess I didn't want the other villages to know about Byakugan's existence, so I omitted it on purpose.
There may also be a gag order placed on those with knowledge of the matter.
After all, on the night of the incident, Ayane faced the fewest Konoha ninjas, and most of them died in her hands. As long as a hush order was issued to the few who survived, they could be temporarily concealed.
If he and Liuli hadn't had too much trouble, and there were too many witnesses, making it difficult to quell the resentment, there might not even be a 'rebel' in this defection, and it would only be secretly circulated internally.
Therefore, he and Liuli were the only two people on the defection list.
It's just that the defecting ninja is classified as S-class, which means that it is extremely dangerous.
Ayane, a member of the branch of the Hyuga clan and a renegade member of the Uchiha clan, were not mentioned and were deliberately hidden.
"As expected of the Hokage... Are you sure we don't want to make things worse?"
A mutual understanding maintained by both parties.
I have to say that this is indeed Shiraishi’s consideration.
Konoha was busy with the war and had no spare power to pursue them.
On their side, they also need to reduce their presence as much as possible. At least at this stage, they cannot act with great fanfare and need to act secretly.
Shiraishi could probably figure out what the Hokage was thinking.
Balancing the situation in the village and overcoming the current difficulties of the war were his top priorities, rather than allocating forces to deal with the dangerous rebel ninja.
"Leaving Konoha aside for now, will there be someone in the other villages who covets the power of the Sharingan?"
Insect Man asked about his worries.
Although a lot of key information has been faded, Ruri's Sharingan may also arouse some people's greed.
"Maybe there's an idea, but where do they get the information from?"
Shiraishi asked back.
Chong Man thought that the wanted list only contained charges and levels, as well as some basic information, but the key parts were not mentioned at all.
Shiraishi continued: "Although Ruri and I have defected, our ninjutsu abilities and combat style are the core secrets of a village. Even the allies will not share intelligence."
Shiraishi doesn't care at all about the pursuit of other villages.
After this incident, the intelligence information of these people will be classified as Konoha's top secret, and only the Hokage and other high-level officials and their cronies are qualified to touch it.
Konoha has already stated that he and Ruri are S-class defected ninjas, which means they are powerful and... dangerous.
If ninjas from other villages want to come and pursue them, they must first determine their whereabouts, and then send ninja troops to test and obtain capability information, which will be accompanied by a lot of time, energy, funds, and personnel losses.
In order to obtain the Sharingan, which is not yet certain, it will be accompanied by such a huge sacrifice, which is not worth the gain.
This is also the reason why ninjas from other villages don't like to deal with rebellious ninjas from other villages.
"That's it."
"How are things arranged over there?"
"The Uchiha and Hinata personnel have been transferred in batches. If there are no problems, they will arrive safely in the Kingdom of Demons around the morning of tomorrow."
Bug Man replied.
Shiraishi nodded. With Liuli and Ayane following him all the way, even if Wukage came in person, he might not be able to get any benefits, so he was not worried about safety on the road.
"Let's move here quickly. Although I can guess some, we can't completely relax our vigilance. Put out more smoke bombs. Regardless of whether Konoha sends a pursuit force or not, these follow-up tasks cannot be left behind."
"yes."
Just as Insect Man was about to leave, the land rippled and General Earth protruded from the floor.
It held a letter in its hand, handed it to Shiraishi, and continued to lurk.
"Whose letter?"
Bug Man was a little curious.
"The personnel I have placed in Konoha Hospital may have something important to report to me."
Shiraishi answered, opened the letter, and read the contents.
Seeing that there seemed to be a big change in Shiraishi's expression, the insect man tightened his heart, thinking that there had been some huge change in Konoha, and it was aimed at him.
"What's wrong?"
"Minato Namikaze is not dead."
Bai Shi's expression became strangely silent.
"Minato Namikaze?"
"A very troublesome Konoha ninja, I thought he was dead."
Shiraishi narrowed his eyes.
Shadow Dancer's Shadow Blade had clearly penetrated Minato's heart at that time. Even if Tsunade performed the surgery herself, there was no way she could have revived Minato in that bad situation.
He knew very well about Konoha's medical standards. How could he possibly recover from such an injury?
So, as he continued to watch, Shiraishi understood what was happening.
"Miaomu Mountain..."
He uttered these three words.
"Miaomu Mountain?"
Shiraishi thought for a moment and issued a puzzling instruction:
"Separate a group of people to collect books that record ancient history, especially legends and histories about immortals and the like. We should focus on collecting them."
