Chapter 223: 219: Shisui and Itachi
The Land of Snow.
This country covered in ice and snow all year-round, even before winter, the air had grown exceptionally cold, and snowflakes had begun dancing in the sky.
Within the palace of Yuki City, Koyuki, now the ruler of the Land Of Snow, sat in a room, visibly bored, enduring a lecture from her teacher. Indeed, it was a study session.
Despite her status as a ruler, Koyuki remained a minor at heart, necessitating her to learn the intricacies of governing the Land Of Snow more adeptly.
The current management of the Land Of Snow rested in the hands of her confidant, Asama, since she didn't know how to govern. She was compelled by Asama to dedicate over six hours everyday to study and an additional three hours to learn about government affairs.
"The devil... Asama is truly a devil..." Koyuki sighed lowering her head in pain as she looked at the books in front of her, tempted to tear them apart. The days of being a ruler wasn't as good as she had imagined. Previously, when her father was still around, she devoted only two hours a day to studies within the palace. Now, she was burdened with nine hours of books and government affairs daily. To her it was like being totured in hell.
"Is there a method in the world to learn everything at once without the need of learning, so i can just eat, drink and have fun all day long?"
Koyuki daydreamed during her class. Her instructor was unable to sway Koyuki's disinterest, and could only turn a blind eye, allowing her to wander in the room. Depending on her mood, Koyuki might listen to some knowledge. if not, even if she burned the books in the class, nothing could be said.
While not dissatisfied with the pay, her teacher hoped that Koyuki, as the future ruler, would be more serious in the class to learn some useful knowledge. However, seeing Koyuki's lack of interest, it was evident of her lack interest in such boring things. Considering Koyuki's age, being the ruler didn't eliminate her youthful aversions to such boring classes.
At that moment, a knock echoed.
"Come in."
Koyuki beckoned the door.
A maid entered, bowing respectfully, "Excuse me, Koyuki-sama."
"Is there an issue?" Koyuki sat upright.
"Minister Asama invites you over. He mentioned distinguished guests were visiting."
"I see, we'll end today's class." Koyuki nodded and decided promptly.
"Yes."
With distinguished guests present, Koyuki had to make a personal appearance. Following the maid, she pondered about the identify VIPs'. Though since she bacame the ruler she had hosted numerous foreign dignitaries symbolically..And after those visits, they wasnt a second from them.
Asama's description hinted at a more important guest. Could it be envoys from the five great powers? But, the Land Of Snow had limited interactions with them. Even if there was a communication, it was usually restricted to just commissioned missions. Moving the palace's corridors, she halted at a door and instructed the maid, "You may leave; I'll enter on my own."
"Yes." The maid bowed and withdrew.
Koyuki adjusted her attire before she pushed the door, and entered the room. Inside the room, Asama was engaged in a harmonious conversation with a young man. Spotting Koyuki's entrance, Asama rose from the sit.
"Koyuki-sama, look who's here..." Asama gestured towards the young man.
"Long time no see, Koyuki." Shiraishi, who had hurried from the Land Of Demons, smiled warmly at Koyuki.
"Father!" Joy lit up Koyuki's face as she hurriedly approached Shiraishi, embracing him intimately.
"Koyuki-sama, even if you're excited, you shouldn't be so impolite. Acting this way could compromise your dignity."
Asama admonished. At the same time, he felt someway. Koyuki always interacted with him with a certain seriousness. so, he wondered why Shiraishi, who visited once every two or three months, was so deeply cherished by her.
"What's wrong with you, Asama? Why don't you realize you're such a long-winded person?" Koyuki voiced her dissatisfaction, glaring at Asama. She was discontented with this devil, who filled her day with heavy learning and governmental responsibilities, leaving her no time for playing. He wasn't a person but a devil!.
"I'm doing all this for your sake. You're already a ruler. You must learn to be a ruler who loves her people like Sosetsu-sama, so they will love you in turn."
"I've heard this too many times already. Today, father's finally visiting, and you don't plan to let me enjoy the time, do you?" Koyuki sighed. Only now could she drop the serious and cold facade and act according to her mood..At first, being the ruler of the Land Of Snow seemed enjoyable. However, as Asama imposed studies and official government affairs, she saw what a true devil was.
Asama could only smile wryly; despite ascending the throne, her character couldn't be removed. Yet, protecting Koyuki was also his duty as a servant.
"Koyuki, Asama-san is doing it for your own good, so don't keep making him angry all the time."
"Yes,. Are you here specifically to visit me this time?" Koyuki asked eagerly.
"That's correct, and I brought you a gift. I hope you'll like it." Shiraishi said with a mysterious smile.
"A gift?" Koyuki tilted her head in puzzlement.
Asama recalled that Shiraishi had brought a sealed box with him. It must be the gift for Koyuki. What could it be?.He looked on as Shiraishi approached the sealed box, tore off the seal, and revealed its contents.
"Uh... Father, is this the gift you brought me?" Koyuki's anticipation turned to surprise as she pointed at the weird device Shiraishi had taken out, her face filled with doubt.
This strange device appeared to be a kind of machinery, something like the heater her father had left. It was entirely black, resembling a pitch-black iron box.
"Yes." Shiraishi nodded.
Still confused, Koyuki wondered how she would play with this strange mechanical device.
Shiraishi smiled slightly, walked to the room's switch, turned off the light, and instantly dimmed the room. Returning to the black mechanical device, he skillfully operated it.
A light source emanated from a hole in the black box, casting light and shadows on the nearby wall, illuminating the room. The shadows showed various scenes – endless rivers, mountains, and oceans – changing with each passing season. The sounds of wind, snow, and other natural elements accompanied the visual display.
Koyuki and Asama were instantly captivated by the projected scenes. Their fascination stemmed not only from the displayed scenery but also from the novelty of this strange black box.
"What's this?" Koyuki subconsciously took a few steps forward, her little face lit up with excitement. It was her first encounter with such beautiful pictures.
"This is a newly developed device for recording video and sound, it's called a projector. It's portable, and it's my gift to you. Do you like it?" Shiraishi explained, fondling Koyuki's head affectionately.
Koyuki nodded enthusiastically, expressing her appreciation. Standing in front of the wall, she stared at the captivating images without blinking.
"Since you've been staying here, you haven't had many opportunities to see the outside world. With this, you can relish the scenery outside while staying inside, so you won't feel bored or depressed."
"I really like this gift, Father." Koyuki's happy smile conveyed her gratitude. Seeing such scenes, she felt compelled to record these beautiful images and sounds, cherishing them as precious memories.
"It's truly a wonderful gift." Asama remarked in admiration.
"I'll leave this to you, Asama."
"Please don't worry. I will definitely work hard to fulfill this task. I can also document the situation of the people in the country, to let Koyuki-sama to understand the sufferings of the world, which will keep on encouraging her from time to time. Shiraishi-san, you've truly put in considerable effort for Koyuki-sama's education."
Moved by Shiraishi's words, Asama had already devised a series of plans to further broaden Koyuki's studies. With this device called a projector, it effectively addressed thr pressing needs.
Shiraishi sensed that Asama may have misunderstood something. He had made his intentions obvious. He merely wanted Koyuki to relax while studying. Despite his clear intent, Asama's words suggested otherwise. If this added to Koyuki's burden, it shouldn't be his fault, right?
Thankfully, Koyuki was still engrossed in the projector's screen, oblivious to Asama's words, otherwise, she would surely have yelled at him. Leaving Koyuki to enjoy the video alone, Shiraishi and Asama exited the room.
"Is your visit this time because of the Chakra armor?" Although he was doubtful, Asama was sure that Shiraishi had another purpose for coming here. Given Shiraishi's busy schedule in the Land Of Demons and it wasn't a festive period, it was likely impossible that he was visiting solely to see his adoptive daughter.
"Yes, my purpose for coming is to test the Chakra armor research at the Iceberg Base."
The Land Of Snow's new research base, named the Iceberg Base, was constructed on the lower layer of a massive iceberg, serving as the largest scientific research facility within the country, utilizing a large amount of resources.
The Chakra Armor, as well as other technologies like the Continue Kunai Gun from the Land Of Sky and some other ninja tools suitable for wars, were developed there and required ongoing innovation.
"The research and development is incredibly difficult. It involves not only funds but also technological innovation, which takes time. Even with adjustments this time, the performance won't be a qualitative change."
Asama was well aware of these challenges. The intricate research and development of Chakra Armor was a unique technology of the Land Of Snow, had progressed slowly despite significant investment.
"Don't worry, I'm not impatient to obtain the Chakra armor for immediate deployment."
The Land Of Demons' expansion plan wasn't urgent, it was slated to commence at least five years later according to the original plan, provided everything proceeded smoothly. However, dealing with complicated international environments would be challenging.
In fact, the Land of Demons' growing national power had brought about earth-shaking changes to cities and towns, with various systems being perfected. It was becoming increasingly difficult to conceal these developments.
Blocking information wasn't a viable strategy, as the Land of Demons' pursuit of further development inevitably meant coming out of the shadows. Therefore, Kirigakure's positioning was of paramount importance.
"In that case, there's no issue. I'll continue paying attention to the Chakra armor development."
It was crucial for the Land Of Snow's survival, and Asama dared not be lax, maintaining strict oversight of the Iceberg Base. Those armors weren't just for the Land Of Demon's army, they were also for enhancing the Land Of Snow's military strength, safeguarding the country's security.
There were countless instances in the ninja world highlighting the weakness of small countries with weak powet, emphasizing the importance of strength for protection. In addition to the incident with Doto, reminded him that strength was the foundation of protecting everything.
"Then I'll be counting on you. Ruri has already gone to the base ahead of time. I'll stay here for a few days to accompany Koyuki and then inspect the base."
"It's my pleasure. I'll go and arrange for someone to prepare the room. You just need to stay here with Koyuki-sama."
...
Konoha.
The Uchiha clan had relocated to a new area. Although the clan's new land area expanded, they had been distanced from the village's core.
From the decision made during the council meeting, new industries would be established this year within the village to promote its development. The Uchiha clan's current location was deemed the most suitable area for these developments.
As compensation, the council allocated a sizable area around them, including a vast training site and a serene forest resembling paradise. Therefore, the Uchiha clan's land was transferred to the village's outskirts, even the Naka Shrine, eliminating the need for extensive travel for clan meetings.
In order to compensate the Uchiha clan, the council also allocated a large amount of surrounding land to the clan. This included a massive training ground, a peaceful and picturesque forest, and a haven-like sanctuary.
While the Uchiha clan's territory experienced a significant expansion, managing such a vast estate presented its own set of challenges. The Uchiha clan's total population suggested that such a large area was simply unnecessary. Moreover, the location was quite distant from the center of the village. As a result, the Uchiha clan had convened five meetings at the Naka Shrine over three consecutive days to address the high-level decisions.
Although the Uchiha elders didn't explicitly express their discontent, Itachi understood that they, including his father, were deeply dissatisfied with the high-level's actions. As he wasn't an official ninja yet, he remained unaware of the discussions in Naka Shrine. Not only at Naka Shrine, but also within his own family, clan members frequently visited, engaging in heated discussions within his father's quarters.
Occasionally passing by, Itachi would overhear words like "Nine-Tails." "Fourth Hokage." and "fight" Obviously, some sensitive political topics are being discussed. The reason the village's council relocated the Uchiha clan to the corner of the village was due to the suspicions that the Nine Tails Rampage may be linked to ninjas from the Uchiha clan.
While compensation was provided to the Uchiha, such as a large piece of land but the skeptical attitude seems to have left the clan extremely anxious. However, Itachi remained indifferent to this decision. For him, such remote environment was great. Not only does it offer beautiful woods, but also a training site several times larger than before, providing him time for his training without worrying about anyone disturbing him.
He believed that his clansmen have lost their composure by a lot. With the incident that had happened, everyone should sit down calmly and consider how to improve the clan's standing in the village. Venting dissatisfaction would only worsen the situation. Moreover, due to the Nine Tails' attack, the village lost hundreds of ninjas, including the heroic death of the Fourth Hokage and his wife.
Now, Kumo had begun watching them. There were even rumors suggesting that war was imminent. Therefore, the adults in the clan blindly venting their anger only made Itachi feel ashamed. Losing composure wasn't a characteristic of a good ninja. If they were framed, then they need to present evidence to clear them, there was no need to dwell any further.
As for whether the Uchiha clan truly released the Nine Taills, Itachi remained unaware of the truth. But his father has been muttering about someone named "Uchiha Ruri" at the dinner table lately. Expressions of anger snf helplessness on his face, then turning into a deep sigh.
Itachi understood that the Nine-Tails attack might indeed have something to do with the Uchiha clan. His father wouldn't mention the person's name or the name of a certain clan without reason. He had heard the name of this person more than once, but he couldn't obtain any information from his father about who they were. Even his mother simply shook her head, unwilling to say anything more.
...
The new training site was situated in a quiet forest.
Itachi had started a new round of training here in the past few days. Firstly, he trained his fire release; then, he engaged in taijutsu, and finally, shurikenjutsu. By the time all his training was over, it was already dusk. As he was about to pick up his gear and leave, suddenly, there was a cheer from behind.
"Sharp!"
Itachi instinctively jumped to the side, drawing a Kunai from his pouch, he pointed it towards whoever was approaching. It was a black-haired boy with a Konoha forehead protector tied on his forehead and the Uchiha cret embroidered on his clothes. He was also a member of the Uchiha clan. He smiled at Itachi.
"Don't be so vigilant. I'm Shisui." Itachi put down the Kunai and was about to introduce himself when Shisui continued to smile, saying.
"I know you, Uchiha Itachi, the son of the clan head."
"You know me?" Itachi asked curiously.
"Yes." Shisui pointed at the targets surrounding them, on which Kunai and shurikens were accurately embedded. Some targets had only one wooden pole left, and others were been burned by fire release jutsu.
"Being able to use such powerful shurikenjutsu and fire release at your age, I guessed your identity right away. I've heard you're someone who doesn't fit in and spends all his time training. I see it's true."
Itachi had put in a lot of effort into reaching his current strength through rigorous practice. Shisui understood well that Itachi has dedicated significant effort and hard work to reach this state, which can't be easily dismissed as 'genius.'
"Because playing ninja games with them isn't interesting." Itachi responded
"Really?"
Shisui stood there thinking for a while, then waved his arm. Several flashes of light appear before Itachi's eyes, followed by a sound.
Itachi turned his head in surprise to see, on the targets, next to each of his shurikens, there was another shuriken, hitting the red mark without exception. Most importantly, he didn't even see Shisui take out the shuriken or how they passed his body in any way to hit the target accurately.
"He's... strong!" Itachi thought.
"How is it? My shurikenjutsu isn't bad, right? However, I believe that in a few years, you should be able to do this, even better than me." Shisui said affirmatively.
Itachi didn't answer, but he thought so in his heart. Shisui could do this because he was older and had trained for a longer time.
"Before the clan moved here, I've noticed you more than once. It's amazing to train seriously at such a young age."" Shisui stretched out his hand towards Itachi, with a hearty and natural smile on his face:
"How about it, would you like to train with me from now? If the two of us trained together, we will grow stronger faster."
Shisui felt very special, it should be easy to get along with him. Moreover, training together with him would make them both stronger. Itachi extended his hand and shook hands with Shisui.
"Okay, we're friends from now on. How about meeting here tomorrow?"
Looking at the informal Shisui, Itachi nodded in agreement.
"That's great."
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