Konoha's Tag-System Ninja

Chapter 230: Chapter 230: The Responsible Kakuzu and Pain!

Konoha Village

Shūichi and Shisui appeared together in a flash.

"Shisui, I'll head to the Hokage's office first," Shūichi said.

Leaving behind a shadow clone to continue training with Shisui, Shūichi departed Shisui's home and made his way to the Hokage's office to report to his teacher, Minato Namikaze.

After listening to the report, Minato immediately asked, "The Fourth Raikage won't die, will he?"

Shūichi smiled. "Don't worry, sensei. I was careful. Even though the medical techniques in Kumogakure aren't as advanced as ours, his injuries are manageable and shouldn't be life-threatening."

Minato sighed in relief, then asked, "So, your next task is to help the Daimyō establish a ninja training facility, right?"

Shūichi nodded. "I believe the Daimyō is already quite eager."

"Sensei, I'll take Aburame Ryōma and the other three with me to the Daimyō's base."

Minato agreed without hesitation. "No problem. Do you need anyone else?"

Shūichi shook his head. "Not for now. We should leave some room for the Daimyō to insert his own people."

"However, sensei, please assign a Hyūga ninja to the Special Root Training Division."

"A Hyūga?" Minato tilted his head slightly in thought. "I'll speak with Hiashi. You retrieved a Byakugan for them; they shouldn't refuse."

Shūichi smirked. "If they do, they can't blame anyone else for being left behind by the times."

While Shūichi had an interest in the Byakugan, he hadn't kept the one he retrieved for himself.

He didn't want to follow in Danzō's footsteps, becoming another Danzō-like figure in the process.

Though he was ambitious, he had his principles.

That said, he still intended to study the Byakugan thoroughly.

The power of the Tenseigan was on par with the Rinnegan and the Mangekyō Sharingan.

As his power ceiling grew harder to push higher, Shūichi was determined to explore every possible avenue to enhance his abilities.

Even if immediate breakthroughs weren't possible, expanding his arsenal and deepening his foundation were key to maximizing the effects of "Flash of Insight".

After leaving the Hokage's office, Shūichi pondered a critical issue—how to integrate his powers effectively.

The Takemikazuchi Thunder Armor was immensely powerful, capable of overwhelming the Fourth Raikage.

If he could master Electromagnetic Release, its power would be even more devastating.

However, in that state, he couldn't utilize other abilities.

"At the moment, I can only use other jutsu when in either Nine-Tails Chakra Mode or Sage Mode," Shūichi mused, frowning. "Am I stuck with Rasengan and Rasenshuriken for now?"

The Nine-Tails Chakra Mode didn't provide the same level of defense as the Takemikazuchi Thunder Armor.

Of course, he could theoretically layer the Takemikazuchi Thunder Armor over the Nine-Tails Chakra Cloak, akin to Susanoo armor overlaying the Nine-Tails.

But for someone like Shūichi, who wouldn't always have the Nine-Tails at his disposal, he needed a mode of his own—something akin to Sage Fox Mode or Susanoo—that allowed him to unleash his full power.

"Lava Release can build a giant. Scorch Release, Wood Release, Ice Release, and even Lightning Release can achieve similar effects."

"Wait... Wood Release seems capable of combining with other powers."

Shūichi recalled that the reanimated Third Hokage had once used a massive Five-Element Bullet jutsu against a Wood Buddha controlled by Yamato through White Zetsu.

"However, the Wood Buddha is still inferior to a fully realized Susanoo," Shūichi sighed inwardly. "If I could awaken the Mangekyō Sharingan, Susanoo would be a great foundation."

"Step by step... I'll start by combining the Lava Giant with Scorch Release."

After returning home and taking a shower, Shūichi teleported to his experimental base using the Flying Thunder God Technique.

He released the Yin-attribute Two-Tails, severed a portion of its tail for a sample, and sliced the rest into smaller pieces for analysis.

This process had become second nature to him.

Compared to Saiken, the Two-Tails' flesh was more palatable, though Shūichi had no interest in savoring it. He swallowed it in large chunks without hesitation.

A wave of heat surged through his body as the Two-Tails' chakra erupted from within.

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However, this power was quickly absorbed and digested by Shūichi's body.

His physique improved again, and his chakra reserves increased.

Unfortunately, this time, he didn't gain a new kekkei genkai.

Upon communicating with the Two-Tails, he learned that it didn't use pure Fire Release but rather Blaze Release—a kekkei genkai formed by the fusion of Fire Release and Yin Release.

While Shūichi had previously mastered Blaze Release, it wasn't a kekkei genkai but a combined jutsu. It utilized Yin Release to enhance the shape transformation of Fire Release, resulting in a Blaze Release Chakra Mode.

This was similar to how Uchiha Sasuke manipulated the flames of Amaterasu using the abilities of his Mangekyō Sharingan.

However, this Blaze Release fundamentally differed from the kekkei genkai version.

"It seems compatibility with the body adds a bit of luck to the absorption of Tailed Beast powers," Shūichi reflected. "But I suppose that's understandable."

"Fortunately, my physique and chakra reserves have grown."

"And with the Two-Tails' power integrated, learning Blaze Release should be much easier."

Shūichi's disappointment quickly dissipated. After carefully assessing his chakra reserves, he smiled in satisfaction. "They're now comparable to a fully realized Eight-Tails."

In terms of chakra, the Eight-Tails was second only to the Nine-Tails among the Tailed Beasts.

But compared to the Nine-Tails, there was still a noticeable gap.

After all, the full power of the Nine-Tails surpassed that of the other eight Tailed Beasts combined.

Shūichi was fully confident that he could surpass the Nine-Tails.

He still had several opportunities to improve his physique, and with each subsequent enhancement, the 100% increase would be even more remarkable.

"For now, my chakra reserves are sufficient," Shūichi mused. "What I need to focus on is the quality of my chakra."

He contemplated, "If I can attain the same chakra quality as the Nine-Tails, I should be able to effortlessly create my own chakra mode—something akin to the Nine-Tails Chakra Mode."

"I'm just one Kekkei Genkai away from unlocking the [Kekkei Genkai Expert] tag, which will also improve my body's compatibility."

"As for Wood Release, I'm almost there. I'll aim to master it this year!"

After tidying up his equipment, Shūichi strolled through the experimental base. He noticed Tsunade and his clones were busy working, so he used the Flying Thunder God Technique to teleport to the Daimyō's experimental base.

Here, Pakura was organizing experimental data.

This base also housed one of Shūichi's clones, and he had transferred several captured Kirigakure shinobi here to serve as test subjects.

"Lord Shūichi!"

Seeing him appear, Pakura instinctively stood up. Though her expression remained calm, her eyes betrayed a hint of joy.

Wrapping his arm around her waist, Shūichi pulled her into an embrace and whispered in her ear, "Did you miss me?"

Pakura closed her eyes, suppressing her embarrassment, and gave a slight nod. "Yes."

That was all the encouragement Shūichi needed. Without hesitation, he scooped her up and carried her to the bedroom to practice some of the secret techniques he'd recently developed.

Unfortunately, the gap in their power had grown significantly—Shūichi had advanced rapidly, while Pakura had remained at her previous level. Within half an hour, she admitted defeat and begged for mercy.

Though he wasn't entirely satisfied, Shūichi decided to reward Pakura, ensuring she was well taken care of.

After their intimate moment, Pakura began briefing Shūichi on the experimental base's progress and the Daimyō's situation.

Since the death of the Third Mizukage, the Daimyō had already urged Asuma Sarutobi to press Shūichi for updates three times.

Clearly, the Daimyō was eager to establish the base and train his own forces.

This didn't surprise Shūichi, who nodded and said, "Let's head to the Daimyō's estate together."

The two immediately set off.

Shūichi valued his reputation and commitments. Since he had promised the Daimyō results, he was determined to deliver. Whether the Daimyō could capitalize on the opportunity was not Shūichi's concern.

When they met, Shūichi sincerely offered advice and painted an ambitious vision for the Daimyō.

For the next several days, he and Pakura remained at the Daimyō's estate, working on the establishment of the secret training base.

---

Meanwhile, news of Shūichi defeating the Fourth Raikage began spreading throughout the shinobi world.

Although the commotion caused by this battle wasn't as significant as his clash in Kirigakure, it couldn't escape the attention of interested parties.

Konoha hosted visiting merchants, intelligence agents, and spies from other villages, including Kumogakure. There was no way to suppress the information.

Besides, Konoha itself was deliberately spreading the news.

---

Amegakure — Meeting Room in the Tower

Nagato and the others gathered once more.

At this moment, Black Zetsu and Spiral White Zetsu were fused together and not attached to Uchiha Obito.

In addition to the usual members, there was a new face—Kakuzu.

"It seems Shūichi has leaked our information to Kumogakure," White Zetsu said regretfully. "It's a pity he didn't kill the Fourth Raikage. Otherwise, we could have taken the opportunity to seize the Eight-Tails and Two-Tails."

Black Zetsu disagreed. "It's not that simple. Don't underestimate the Five Great Shinobi Villages."

Kakuzu, attending his first meeting, remarked, "So it's true that the Fourth Raikage was defeated by that brat, Shūichi Hoshita?"

White Zetsu grinned. "Of course! I saw it with my own eyes."

"And the most impressive part? Shūichi didn't even use his full strength. He defeated the Fourth Raikage using only Lightning Release!"

Kakuzu's eyes widened in surprise. "In that case, the rumors about the Third Mizukage might also be true."

"What an astonishing junior... it's hard not to think of the First Hokage when hearing about him."

Uchiha Obito, seated separately and posing as Madara, added, "Indeed, he possesses strength comparable to Hashirama at his peak."

"Otherwise, we wouldn't have to go to such lengths."

Kakuzu turned his gaze to Obito. "Hashirama is dead, yet Lord Madara is still alive. Truly unexpected."

His tone carried a hint of suspicion about Obito's identity.

Obito, sensing the doubt, replied indifferently, "You once tried to assassinate Hashirama. Why not test me as well?"

Kakuzu narrowed his eyes but snorted coldly. "I have no interest in that—unless there's a bounty on your head."

Turning to Pain, Kakuzu said, "I've joined this organization for the sake of the bounties."

Tendo Pain said, "Rest assured, Akatsuki has always made the best use of its members' talents. From now on, you'll serve as the organization's treasurer."

(T/N: Tendo = Deva Path)

"As for bounty missions, we won't be lacking in those."

"We recently received a commission from Iwagakure. The earnings won't disappoint."

Kakuzu nodded in satisfaction and remarked, "For Iwagakure to turn to us, it must be a shady and unspeakable task."

"But it doesn't matter. Bounty rewards are all that matter."

At this moment, White Zetsu interjected, "Speaking of bounties, we can discuss that later. Right now, we should address something more pressing."

"Kumogakure has already sent people to infiltrate the village. Although they were easily dealt with, it's clear that such troubles are likely to increase in the future."

Black Zetsu added, "Shūichi is clearly laying the groundwork to unite the Five Great Shinobi Villages."

Tendo Pain replied, "That's not something we need to worry about for now. Hanzō has already resumed control of Amegakure."

"However, the organization does need to find a new, suitable base of operations."

"Kirigakure seems like an excellent choice."

With that, he turned his gaze toward Uchiha Obito.

Obito replied, "No problem."

"The Fourth Mizukage is under my control. Continuing the 'Bloody Mist' policies of the Third Mizukage—and even intensifying them—combined with Kirigakure's geographical advantages, makes it an ideal base."

Kakuzu, hearing this, was inwardly startled. "Could this guy really be Uchiha Madara? He's even managed to control the Fourth Mizukage."

"Such genjutsu prowess... only someone from the Uchiha clan could achieve this."

"This organization might truly have some potential..."

White Zetsu chuckled, "Using Kirigakure as a cover is indeed a brilliant idea."

"However, I must remind you that Shūichi likely left a Flying Thunder God mark on the Tailed Beasts he didn't take. Capturing the jinchūriki might be tricky."

Tendo Pain said calmly, "He can't monitor all the Tailed Beasts simultaneously, and the Gedo Statue is sufficient to block his sensory abilities."

"When the time is right, with enough intelligence and manpower, I'll personally keep him occupied."

White Zetsu nodded. "Then there's no issue."

Tendo Pain continued, "From now on, all missions will be assigned in pairs."

"Madara, you'll team up with Zetsu."

"Kakuzu, you'll operate solo for now, but we'll assign you a partner soon."

Kakuzu shrugged. "As long as it doesn't interfere with my bounty hunting, I don't care."

"But I have to ask—what's the current financial status of the organization?"

Tendo Pain remained silent.

Konan, who had been quiet until now, spoke up. "Previously, the organization's finances were tied to Amegakure. Starting today, they'll be separated, and you'll take over managing them."

Kakuzu fell silent, sensing the weight of responsibility.

Konan quickly added, "Don't worry. There will be plenty of missions coming up."

"Additionally, Pain and I can quickly produce explosive tags, which will allow us to accumulate funds rapidly."

"Of course, we'll need sufficient capital to procure the necessary raw materials first."

The paper used to craft explosive tags wasn't ordinary.

Kakuzu nodded. "Understood."

It seemed he'd have to collect more heads than usual.

---

The meeting adjourned.

Obito and Zetsu headed to Kirigakure, while Konan assigned tasks to Kakuzu. Once done, she returned to the tower.

"Pain, should I also relocate to Kirigakure?"

Tendo Pain shook his head. "No, you'll stay here."

"You'll take over managing Amegakure in place of the Animal Path. At the appropriate time, the Animal Path will hand over leadership to you."

The Animal Path, after all, was crafted from Hanzō's corpse.

Konan frowned. "Are you heading to Kirigakure as well?"

Tendo Pain explained, "The Rinnegan draws too much attention. Amegakure is already under Kumogakure's surveillance. To operate more effectively, I must create some distance."

"Moreover, if the Five Great Shinobi Villages do form an alliance, you'll need to lead Amegakure in joining them."

Konan was puzzled. "But Shūichi knows who I am."

Tendo Pain was unfazed. "He won't refuse."

Konan frowned. "Are you trying to protect me?"

"That's unnecessary..."

Tendo Pain raised a hand, cutting her off. "This isn't about protecting you—it's about serving our goal."

"If I fail, you'll have to carry the hopes of Yahiko and me forward!"

Konan understood his meaning and fell silent. After a moment, she nodded slightly. "I understand."

Tendo Pain then said, "Contact Shūichi and ask him to arrange someone for the task."

(End of Chapter)

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