News of the Tenkage inauguration in Hidden Heaven Village spread like wildfire across the ninja world.
In preparation, Hidden Heaven Village doubled its defenses, with round-the-clock patrols ensuring the village’s safety.
Amidst this tension, four days passed quickly, and the inauguration of their First Tenkage was set to take place the following day.
In a training ground in Hidden Heaven, Zabuza and Sasuke were sparring fiercely.
They moved like lightning, finally clashing like two falling stars.
“Clang!”
The sharp sound of metal echoed as sparks flew from the collision between Sasuke’s ninja sword and Zabuza’s massive blade.
The force of the clash forced both fighters to step back.
Zabuza managed to steady himself after just two steps, while Sasuke stumbled back several more, his face slightly pale.
“Haha… Zabuza-san, you’re as strong as ever!” Sasuke said, sheathing his sword with a smile. “So, Zabuza-san, now that you’ve been in Hidden Heaven for a few days, what do you think of our village?”
Zabuza hesitated for a moment. Although he hadn’t fully explored the village, he had gained a general impression. “Hidden Heaven may be a small village, but it’s peaceful. The villagers and ninjas here seem genuinely happy.”
“Indeed,” Sasuke smiled. “The Uchiha clan has sacrificed greatly to bring peace to Hidden Heaven, so we cherish our villagers and our ninjas.”
Zabuza nodded in agreement.
“Zabuza-san, if you enjoy being here, why not join us? You won’t have to live as a wanderer anymore,” Sasuke urged, inviting Zabuza to officially join Hidden Heaven.
With a sigh, Zabuza replied, “Let me think about it for a few more days.” In truth, he liked the village but felt something was missing, making him hesitant.
“Take your time. Joining Hidden Heaven is a big decision that deserves careful thought,” Sasuke replied, though he couldn’t hide a hint of disappointment.
“Don’t worry; I’ll decide soon enough. I don’t want to be a burden to the village,” Zabuza reassured him.
Just then, a Hidden Heaven ninja appeared in front of Sasuke.
“Sasuke, the Raikage has arrived. The Tenkage-sama wants you to join him in welcoming the Raikage.”
“Oh?” Sasuke raised an eyebrow, then nodded, bidding farewell to Zabuza as he headed toward the Tenkage building.
...
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In the guest lounge of the Tenkage building, the Fourth Raikage and Uchiha Fugaku were deep in conversation when Sasuke entered.
“Hahaha, there you are! I didn’t go back on my word, did I?” The Fourth Raikage laughed heartily.
“I’m truly grateful that you kept your promise to visit Hidden Heaven,” Sasuke responded with a slight bow.
Turning to Fugaku, the Raikage continued, “Fugaku-dono… or rather, Tenkage, I admire you for raising such a talented young ninja as Sasuke. For someone so young, he’s already defeated several Jonin from the Hidden Cloud Village!”
Fugaku’s pride swelled as he smiled, replying modestly, “Sasuke was just lucky to win those fights. He still has a long way to go to become an exceptional ninja.”
“I have no doubt Sasuke will reach that level,” the Raikage said confidently. “Although I didn’t bring any grand gifts, I do have some information that may concern the Tenkage.”
“Oh? Please, go on,” Fugaku replied curiously.
“I’ve heard that because Hidden Heaven accepted the rogue ninja Zabuza, the Mist Village is considering launching an attack,” the Raikage said grimly.
“What? Hidden Mist Village would really…?” Fugaku was taken aback.
Coming from the Raikage, the information was highly credible, given the Hidden Cloud Village’s extensive intelligence network.
Sasuke furrowed his brow as well, surprised that the Hidden Mist Village would go so far over Zabuza.
“Tenkage, it’s important to weigh the risks and benefits before confronting the Mist Village over a rogue ninja,” the Raikage reminded him.
“Thank you, Raikage. I’ll consider our options carefully,” Fugaku replied, still digesting the news.
After a short conversation, the Raikage and his party retired to their guest rooms.
“Sasuke, should we hold an emergency meeting?” Fugaku asked, looking worried once the Raikage had left.
“Father, tomorrow is the Tenkage inauguration, and everyone is preparing for the ceremony. Let’s address this after it’s over,” Sasuke suggested. He didn’t want to dampen the important day with concern over the Mist Village.
“Alright, if you think that’s best…” Fugaku sighed, resigning himself to wait.