DAIMYO: Chapter 21/26

Chapter 21: Bloody Ceremony

"Yamano.

The ceremony continues."

Arashi's calm voice rippled across the bloody square.

Yamano, who had collapsed on the ground, shivered and scrambled to his feet, his legs trembling uncontrollably with fear.

Continue the enthronement ceremony in this situation?

But when he looked up and met Arashi's gaze, all hesitation and fear vanished.

He picked up the scroll of the congratulatory message with shaking hands, forced himself not to look around, and raised his voice.

His sharp voice echoed clearly across the silent square.

"By the will of the Land of Fire and its people."

The moment his voice rang out, hundreds of Anbu became Shinigami harvesting lives.

No command, no roar.

Aono Saku, leading them, simply made a small waving gesture.

The slaughter began.

Pfft.

A black blade sliced across a desperado's throat, blood gushing like a spring.

The man clutched his neck, unable to even scream.

"Today, Arashi-sama, whose wisdom and resolve have won the people's trust, ascends to the throne of the Land of Fire."

Yamano's voice trembled.

On the other side, a Root ninja had just finished forming a hand sign when a poisoned black blade pierced his chest.

He looked down at the tip through his torso, his lips moved, then he fell straight down.

"He reformed the court and purged its corruption."

Two Anbu attacked from left and right, their long blades crossing.

A head flew into the air, madness still frozen on its face.

The headless body swayed twice, then crashed to the ground.

Yamano closed his eyes, not daring to look, mechanically reciting the congratulatory message.

The sounds of slaughter behind him made him afraid to listen.

"He brought peace to the people and prosperity to the land."

The sound of blades entering flesh, the crisp snap of bones, and dying screams.

All of it mixed with the solemn eulogy from his mouth.

On one side was praise for the new king's virtue, on the other was a hell of severed limbs.

This jarring scene left everyone on the viewing platform speechless.

When the last rebel was beheaded, only wails and heavy breathing remained in the square.

Just then, in Konoha's viewing area, the Anbu leader who had stopped the Konoha shinobi slowly turned around.

His gaze was like a torch, passing over Minato, bypassing Hiruzen, and finally locking onto the ashen-faced man.

The one-eyed Shimura Danzō, his eye bloodshot with anger and terror.

"Fourth Hokage-sama," his voice was cold and emotionless, "the rebellion has appeared. It is up to you, Konoha, to cleanse your own house."

The Konoha shinobi were stunned.

All eyes fixed on Danzō.

"Danzō!!" Hiruzen let out a roar of grief and indignation.

The moment he was named, Danzō knew it was over.

Without hesitation, he turned and fled.

"Stop him!"

"For Konoha!"

Several quick-reacting Konoha shinobi roared and gave chase.

Among them were Hyuga, Uchiha, Yamanaka, Aburame, and others who had long been dissatisfied with Danzō.

This was the best chance to show loyalty to the new Daimyo.

"Protect Danzō-sama!"

Around Danzō, the few remaining Root operatives screamed and turned to face their pursuers without hesitation.

"Wind Release, Vacuum Wave!"

"Secret Technique, Mind Body Switch Technique!"

But they faced dozens of furious comrades from Konoha.

A Root ninja had just spewed wind blades when a Hyuga's Gentle Fist struck all his vital tenketsu, his chakra stagnating instantly.

A moment later, three or four kunai pierced his throat.

Another Root ninja from the Yamanaka clan tried to seize control of his opponent's mind but was kicked in the head.

His skull caved in, and blood and brain matter splattered.

The battle started fast and ended even faster.

In just over a dozen breaths, all those Root operatives lay in pools of blood.

Danzō was surrounded in the center of the square.

He clutched his bleeding right arm, panting heavily, his single eye sweeping venomously over everyone around him.

"Danzō! You bastard! What are you trying to do!" Utatane Koharu trembled with rage, pointing at him and sharply questioning him.

"You have shamed Konoha completely! Surrender now!" Mitokado Homura's old face flushed, filled with pain and indignation.

Hiruzen walked forward step by step.

He looked at his lifelong comrade, both friend and foe, now so wretched, and his heart tangled with emotion.

He opened his mouth, but no words came out.

Strike him?

His mind flashed back to the war-torn years, two young men back to back, sharing their last soldier pill.

"Hiruzen, keep going, you must survive."

"Danzō, we will protect this village together, until death."

The vows of old still echoed in his ears, yet now he had to personally kill the close friend who had grown up with him.

He could not do it.

The massacre in the square had ended.

Yamano's recitation had reached its last sentence.

"Now he ascends the throne to rule the realm. May the Will of Fire shine across the land."

After he finished, his legs gave out and he collapsed.

The entire square fell into eerie silence again.

Arashi took the scroll.

He held the National Stone in one hand and the congratulatory message in the other, slowly walking to the edge of the high platform.

"Hey, is it not over yet?"

In an instant, all eyes converged on him.

The next moment, they focused again on Danzō, who was surrounded, and Hiruzen, who continued walking toward him.

At this moment of heightened attention, the Anbu leader appeared beside Hiruzen like a ghost.

"Third Hokage-sama," his voice was not loud, but it pierced Hiruzen's heart, "this is an internal affair of your Konoha, a calamity you indulged."

He raised a hand and pointed.

First to the civilians trampled to death in the chaos, then to the four nations' delegations.

The faces of those delegates wore the expressions of spectators.

"Everyone is watching."

"It is you who must cut out this cancer and prove to the world that Konoha can still be saved."

"Or do you want my liege to take action personally and cleanse your house for you?"

"To declare to the world that you Konoha shinobi cannot even deal with your own traitors?"

The words were damning.

Hiruzen's body trembled, his vision blurred.

He understood the meaning.

If he did not act, the Daimyo would.

For the Daimyo to personally clean up a Hokage Advisor would be an immense humiliation.

He could feel the gazes from the delegations around him.

Pity, schadenfreude, and disdain.

Konoha's glory, the Hokage's dignity, were shattered at this moment.

The Anbu leader's voice rang out again, not loud, but very clear.

"Show your aura as a ninja hero, Sarutobi Hiruzen."

"Let everyone see whether your fangs have truly been worn down by time."

"This is for Konoha."

For Konoha.

Those words pierced Hiruzen's last line of defense.

For those words, he had compromised his entire life, and endured it.

Now, for those words, he had to kill his good friend with his own hands.

The Konoha shinobi around him did not speak, but the killing intent of some was no longer hidden.

"Do it, Hiruzen." At the end of the road, Danzō, who had seen through the situation, let out a resigned laugh.

The smile held relief, unwillingness, and self-mockery.

He straightened his hunched back, as if returning to those war-torn years, standing shoulder to shoulder with his close friend.

"To die by your hand, I have no complaints."

A thunderous sound echoed in Hiruzen's mind, countless fragments of memory exploding before his eyes.

The vows made as boys, sharing rice balls back to back, were crushed by reality.

He suddenly looked up, and in his cloudy eyes, all tenderness vanished, leaving only endless sorrow and fury.

"A Kage-level chakra burst forth with a thunderous roar."

Shinobi nearby stumbled and retreated under the pressure.

A suppressed wail, mixed with anger, echoed through the sky.

"Danzō!!!"

(To be continued.)

Chapter 22: Danzō's Death

Hiruzen's roar echoed across the square, filled with anger, sorrow, and despair crushed by reality.

His Kage-level aura was no longer restrained, sweeping across the entire venue.

The air over the square grew oppressive, hard to breathe.

Danzō smiled.

Facing Hiruzen's all-consuming killing intent, he showed no intention of resisting.

He straightened his back and met his old friend's gaze.

There was no malice, no calculation in his single eye, only the calm of someone who had seen through everything.

"Do it, Hiruzen."

"We have contended our entire lives, fought our entire lives."

"To die by your hand is not such a bad end."

"It is only a pity that I could not see the day Konoha truly stands at the pinnacle of the ninja world."

The bloodshot in Hiruzen's eyes deepened.

"Shut up!!"

He roared, vanishing from his spot.

The next moment, he appeared before Danzō, his weathered hand turning into a claw, thrusting for Danzō's heart.

There was no mercy in this strike.

Pfft.

The claw pierced flesh and blood.

Time seemed to slow to a crawl.

Hiruzen could feel the heart beneath his fingertips, pounding violently.

It was warm to the touch.

Just like decades ago, when the two shared a rice ball on the battlefield.

Danzō's body shook, blood gushing from his mouth.

He did not look down at his wound. He used his last bit of strength to raise his hand and gently pat the arm Hiruzen used to grab him.

The movement was light, as if in comfort.

"Hiruzen..."

"Be careful... of this Daimyo..."

"He is more evil... than the Uchiha..."

Before he could finish, the light in his eyes went out.

His arm fell limp.

Shimura Danzō, the Darkness of Konoha, leader of Root, a man of the same era as the Third Hokage.

He died because of his own ambition.

He died by the hand of his closest friend and lifelong rival.

Hiruzen slowly withdrew his hand.

Blood dripped from his fingers, pattering onto the cold stone, blooming into tiny flowers of red.

He stared blankly at Danzō's corpse, tears already streaming down his face.

He stood there without moving, letting the wind ruffle his hair.

Up close, more than half his hair was white.

The ninja hero looked twenty years older in that moment.

The surrounding noise could not break the silence here.

The Konoha shinobi watched, their expressions complex.

Sadness, anger, bewilderment, and an unspeakable sense of relief.

Minato clenched his fists, nails digging into his palms.

Hiruzen's lonely figure pained him.

But he knew that from the moment Danzō rebelled, this outcome was already decided.

On the high platform.

Arashi watched without a ripple on his face.

It was as if only an annoying insect had died, not a Konoha Hokage Advisor.

He turned to the four nations' delegations on the viewing platform, clearly seeing the looks on their faces.

Seeing the Daimyo look over, they all lowered their heads.

The Kumo envoy's mockery had vanished, fine sweat beading on his forehead.

The Iwa envoy no longer stroked his beard. His hands hid in his sleeves, trembling slightly.

The Suna envoy's eyes held more apprehension than shock.

The Kiri envoy was equally fearful, not daring to meet his gaze.

Mei trembled slightly.

The cruelty and bloodshed of the Hidden Mist were visible struggle and tyranny.

But this man before her, with his silent machinations, was unseen.

He shed little blood, led them into his trap, and made Konoha's two giants kill each other, turning a ninja hero who had shaken the ninja world into a wretch who murdered his friend in front of everyone.

Such methods, such a heart, made her feel that whether it was Kirigakure, or the resistance she and Gengetsu had formed, it all seemed like a child's game.

Arashi was satisfied with their reactions.

This was precisely the effect he wanted.

Kill one to warn a hundred, deter all sides.

He slowly raised his hand, his voice sounding again, not loud, but reaching every corner of the square.

"Aono Saku."

"Your subordinate is here."

The Anbu leader, wearing a black mask, appeared silently behind him and knelt on one knee.

"Clear the battlefield. Collect the civilians' remains, give them proper burial, and compensate their families."

"As for all rebels, display their heads at the city gates for three days."

"And the masterminds..."

Arashi's gaze fell on Saionji Takashi and Chiba Shu, who had long since collapsed into terrified heaps.

Compared to Shu, Takashi still had some defiance.

Though his legs trembled, he refused to collapse, glaring with hatred.

"Saionji Takashi, beheaded and displayed. Exterminate his clan."

"Chiba Shu, bind his limbs, silence him, and consign him to the State Prison."

"Let him live and watch how my Land of Fire grows stronger day by day."

"Yes." Aono Saku accepted the order and signaled for men to take them away.

"Arashi, you will die a terrible death, you... Ugh..."

As his fate was declared, Saionji cursed, only to be punched in the mouth by an Anbu, blood and teeth flying.

Shu trembled violently, extreme fear in his eyes. He made a gurgling sound, unable to beg for mercy.

Ignoring the dying dog's barking, Arashi looked toward the Konoha camp, his gaze landing on Minato.

"Fourth Hokage."

Minato's heart tightened and he straightened instinctively. "Daimyo-sama."

"The Third Hokage is exhausted. Take him back to rest."

Arashi's tone was flat.

"I do not wish to see a second internal strife in Konoha."

"Remember that."

A warning that disregarded the other party's status.

After what had happened, Minato bowed. "Yes."

In that moment, the era belonging to the Daimyo began.

Arashi nodded in satisfaction.

He looked at no one else and slowly walked back to the center of the high platform.

He raised both hands, solemnly lifting the National Stone that symbolized the highest authority of the Land of Fire.

Sunlight spilled down, and the intricate flame patterns on the stone seemed to come alive, burning brightly in his palm.

He held the National Stone high.

Facing the multitude.

Facing the world.

"The ceremony is complete!"

As the chief ceremonial officer shouted, the tens of thousands in the square fell silent for a heartbeat, then erupted in cheers like a crashing tide.

"Long live Lord Daimyo!!"

"Long live the Land of Fire!!"

Perhaps they did not understand politics or schemes.

But they had seen with their own eyes how the Daimyo crushed the rebellion with thunderous means, protecting their peace.

That was enough.

Amid the deafening cheers, a faint blue curtain of light, visible only to him, slowly unfolded before his eyes.

[Ding!]
[Main Quest: Lord of the Land of Fire, Stage Two, has been completed!]
[Quest Evaluation: Perfect, with lightning speed, in the spotlight of all, cleared internal and external enemies, established the Daimyo's supreme authority, and deterred petty schemers from all directions.]
[Quest rewards are being distributed...]
[Congratulations to the Host. You have received the reward: Economic Policy Sandbox!]

(To be continued.)

Chapter 23: White Silk

The grand ceremony concluded.

The scent of blood had not yet dissipated, and the populace began to exit in an orderly fashion, though the fervor on their faces had not faded.

They had witnessed a bloody baptism and the birth of a new Daimyo.

From today onward, the Land of Fire would have only one voice.

That would be the voice of the Daimyo. In the Daimyo Manor's bedchamber, the lingering sandalwood drove away the bloodstained air from outside.

Arashi was already dressed in loose black casual clothes, leaning against a soft couch covered with snow-white fox fur.

He held a cup of clear tea, a maid fanning him from behind, his expression leisurely and content.

He had schemed for over a decade, rising from an overlooked illegitimate son to a ruler of a nation.

From this moment on, whether by law or name, he was the sole dominator of this land.

This feeling of holding the fate of countless lives in his palm was indeed delightful.

Thump, thump, thump.

A knock sounded at the door.

"Enter."

Arashi did not even lift his eyelids.

The elderly butler, Gen, pushed the door open. His steps made almost no sound.

"Reporting, my lord, Kiyotsuki Yui is demanding to see you in the State Prison."

"She asked this subordinate to convey a message. She said she spoke out of turn and begs you to give her another chance."

Kiyotsuki Yui.

At the name, a trace of coldness flickered in Arashi's eyes.

The most pathetic thing about a betrayer is believing their betrayal is unique, excusable, and that they can always expect forgiveness.

How naive.

Betrayal is always either zero times or countless times.

Like a broken bowl, even if glued back together, the cracks remain.

What is more, he had confiscated her family's property and executed her father and brothers.

Keeping her by his side so long was only to lure out bigger fish, and to give her a chance.

Now that the fish were in the net, the bait had no further use.

He would not bother to glue a broken bowl.

"A chance?"

Arashi was silent for a long time. His voice was soft, but his tone weighed heavy.

"I already gave her a chance. She did not cherish it. One who has betrayed has no right to my forgiveness."

"Come here." Arashi set down his teacup and beckoned Gen.

Gen quickly rose and approached.

Arashi slapped him across the face. The blow wasn't hard, but blood welled at Gen's lip. Startled, Gen dropped to his knees and pressed his forehead to the floor.

"This servant deserves death. I deserve death, my lord."

"Get up."

"Yes, yes." Gen trembled as he got up.

"Does it hurt?" Arashi asked.

Gen shook his head quickly. "No, no."

"Then it seems you have not learned your lesson."

"No, no, it hurts, it hurts."

"Good that it hurts. Remember, do not take what you should not take in the future."

"This subordinate will remember. I will remember."

Seeing Gen's fearful expression, Arashi felt a pang of regret. Gen had watched him grow up and had been loyal for over a decade. He did not wish to scold him too harshly.

Arashi's tone eased. "This time is fine. Since you took it, keep it safe and do not lose it."

"I would not dare. This subordinate will return it shortly."

"If I tell you to hold onto it, then hold onto it."

"...Yes."

"Gen, you watched me grow up. You should understand me. If everyone is like this, this country will rot."

"If the country rots, my position will not be stable, and you will receive no favors."

Tears streamed down Gen's face and he knelt again. "This subordinate was foolish. Fortunately, my lord reminded me. I almost made a grave mistake."

"Get up."

"As for Kiyotsuki Yui, she was once a young lady of a family famous in the Fire Capital, and she contributed to today's spectacle."

Arashi said, calm and measured, "It would be unseemly to let her die in a filthy State Prison. Prepare a length of white silk and send her to join her father and brothers."

"Give her a dignified end."

Gen bowed even lower and answered in a hoarse voice.

"...Yes, my lord."

Gen could feel the ruthlessness within the Daimyo's calm words.

In his heart, there was no soft-hearted benevolence, only rules.

Those who follow me prosper, those who defy me perish.

"There is one more matter."

Arashi seemed to recall something.

"First, go to the Konoha annex and notify the Fourth Hokage, Namikaze Minato."

"Tell him to see me in three days."

"During these three days, have him properly handle Konoha's internal affairs. I do not wish to hear any inappropriate voices again."

Arashi deliberately emphasized the words internal affairs.

The old butler understood perfectly.

This was to have the Fourth Hokage completely purge Danzō's remaining forces.

"Also tell him to prepare a detailed plan for the genius cultivation special fund I mentioned before, and bring it with him."

"Yes, this old servant will attend to it immediately."

Gen dared not show any slack. After bowing, he retreated quietly and slipped out the door.

Silence returned to the study.

After leaving the Daimyo Manor, Gen first went to the Konoha annex.

After conveying his lord's message to Minato, he did not linger, bowed, and took his leave.

Next, he headed straight to the State Prison.

This place was used to detain serious offenders.

Those incarcerated here were invariably immensely powerful or extremely heinous.

In the dark, damp corridor, mold grew everywhere. Ordinary nobles, even if they committed crimes, were not qualified to be held here.

When the prison door opened and Yui saw that the visitor was Gen, her eyes widened.

She struggled up from the ground, asking eagerly, "Uncle Gen, did he send you to fetch me? Has he forgiven me?"

Gen did not answer. He merely made a calm inviting gesture.

Then he led Yui out of the State Prison.

Along the way, Yui followed anxiously. She opened her mouth several times, her voice shifting from hopeful to trembling. "Uncle Gen, where are we going? My lord... is he willing to see me?"

Gen remained silent throughout.

The carriage did not head toward the Daimyo Manor, but stopped in front of a mansion that had long been sealed, where weeds had begun to grow.

When she saw the familiar gate, the last trace of color drained from Yui's face.

She was not a fool.

She understood immediately.

"No, no. I am not going in."

She shook her head frantically, tears streaming down her face. "Uncle Gen, I was wrong, I truly was! Please, take me to see my lord. I'll kneel and beg for his forgiveness. Please!"

She knelt, clutching Gen's trousers, pleading incoherently.

A trace of pity flashed in Gen's eyes, the regret of watching a young life walk toward death.

He sighed softly, his voice hoarse but unwavering.

"Young Miss Yui, this path was your choice."

He helped her up and handed her a set of clean, beautiful clothes, his tone helpless.

"My lord, out of old sentiment, has left you your final dignity."

"To complete your last journey cleanly in your own home is better than rotting in that filthy prison."

Gen led her into an inner room that had been cleaned. On a low table, a strip of white silk was neatly placed.

Yui's body went limp, all strength leaving her.

"This old servant merely follows orders."

Gen said one last sentence, then his aged figure slowly retreated and closed the door.

Outside the door, he stood silently, like a stone statue.

A long while passed.

A metallic sound came from inside. Only when the last echo faded did he turn and enter.

After confirming that Yui was dead, he had her body taken away, then left.

His figure once again merged into the night.

(To be continued.)

(To be continued.)

Special thanks to BurglarOfTurds for sponsoring this extra chapter 🎉🎉🎉

Chapter 24: Do You Need Many Children Before You Can Conquer the World?

Arashi stretched and sat up from the soft couch.

After dealing with miscellaneous matters, it was finally time to tally the gains.

He dismissed all the maids.

With a thought, a light blue screen unfolded before his eyes.

The System's cold, mechanical voice rang out.

[Ding!]
[Main Mission: Dominator of the Land of Fire, Stage Two, has been completed!]
[Quest Evaluation: Perfect, with lightning speed, in the spotlight of all, cleared internal and external enemies, established the Daimyo's supreme authority, and deterred petty schemers from all directions.]
[Quest rewards are being distributed...]
[Congratulations to the Host. You have received the reward: Economic Policy Sandbox!]

The screen refreshed, and a new mission prompt appeared.

[Ding!]
[Current Mission: Might of Lightning, Stage Three!]
[Mission Description: The Land of Lightning has yet to sign a peace treaty with the Land of Fire, and the Hidden Cloud grows restless. As supreme ruler of the Land of Fire, you must make the northern power understand who holds the balance of power, teach the Land of Lightning a lesson it cannot ignore and force it to sign the treaty.]
[Mission Reward: National Luck +1000 points.]

Immediately after, another prompt surfaced.

[Ding!]
[Detected that the Host's foundation is established, but the legacy is unstable. Triggering a side mission.]
[Side Mission: Eternal Foundation—Expand the Lineage, Strengthen the Fire's Future]
[Mission Description: The stability of a nation rests on its foundation. As the founder of a new era, only a lasting bloodline can secure the throne and prevent future unrest. Expand your household, raise heirs, and strengthen the roots of the Land of Fire, build the legacy that will endure for generations.]
[Mission Reward: For each excellent bloodline born, the Host will receive random rewards such as extended lifespan and enhanced physique, and unlock the (Imperial Education) template.]

The previous mission was quite normal.

Hegemony, after all.

The System was the Daimyo System.

Such a mission was expected.

The latter mission, however, was less conventional.

But bloodline legacy did remind him that an empire of one person is ultimately lonely and fragile.

To establish a truly enduring dynasty, a rock-solid foundation was needed.

This mission came at the right time.

His gaze then fell on the newly acquired reward, the (Economic Policy Sandbox).

With a thought, the screen before his eyes transformed.

A three-dimensional sandbox model floated into view.

Mountains and rivers.

Cities and villages.

The entire geography of the ninja world was displayed upon it.

He could even see faint glows representing population flows between cities.

This was not just a model, but a living microcosm.

[Function Description:]
[1. Macro Simulation: The Host can test any economic policy, such as tax rate adjustments, infrastructure investment, and trade agreements, on the sandbox. The System will use existing data to simulate chain reactions, economic growth or recession curves, and changes in social stability over the next 3 years.]
[2. Precise Strike: Target specific countries, families, trade guilds, or individuals, and simulate operations such as economic blockade, asset sniping, and supply chain disruption.]
[3. Opportunity Insight: The System will analyze economic data of various countries in real time, automatically identifying high-return investment opportunities, potential trade partners, or exploitable economic loopholes.]

Looking at these descriptions, Arashi's breathing paused.

If [Talent Scan] allowed him to control people's hearts, then this [Economic Policy Sandbox] was his sharp sword for conquering the ninja world.

Setting aside the god-tier battles that marked the end of the Hokage era, every Great Ninja War before it was, at its core, a contest of wealth, resources, and national strength.

With this sandbox, he possessed a god's-eye view.

He could cripple a nation economically before a war even began.

Compared to the long-term plan of expanding the lineage, which required time, striking at the defiant Land of Lightning mattered more now.

Might of Lightning. Perfect. He would use this new tool to weigh the Land of Lightning.

To see how hard their bones were.

Arashi's finger traced the sandbox.

He pointed to the northeastern corner of the map, at the nation ringed by mountains and thunderclouds.

"Activate the Economic Policy Sandbox. Simulate a comprehensive economic blockade against the Land of Lightning, and deduce all possible countermeasures."

[Ding!]
[Command confirmed. Initiating game-theory deduction mode. Loading Land of Lightning high-level decision-making model, core: Fourth Raikage, A...]
[Deduction begins.]

Buzz.

Above the sandbox, red lines representing the Land of Fire spread, weaving into a vast net that tightly enveloped the Land of Lightning.

Several blue arrows shot out from within the Land of Lightning, striking the red net and creating ripples.

New data streams and text rapidly refreshed to the side.

[Game-Theory Deduction Results:]
[Phase One, 0 to 3 months, Economic Impact and Military Deterrence]
[Our actions: The Land of Fire, allied with the Land of Wind and the Land of Earth, imposes a trade embargo on the Land of Lightning.]
[Enemy response, economic: The Land of Lightning's economy is hit. Pillar industries like iron ore stagnate. Domestic prices may rise by 200 percent within 3 months.]
[Enemy response, military: The Fourth Raikage may gather Hidden Cloud's main forces at the border to conduct high-intensity military deterrence and force negotiations through the threat of war.]

[Phase Two, 4 to 6 months, Internal Unrest and External Harassment]
[Our actions: Maintain the blockade and dump goods via the black market to worsen inflation inside the Land of Lightning.]
[Enemy response, economic: Large-scale unemployment erupts and social conflict intensifies. Hidden Cloud may dispatch elite squads to attack the Land of Fire's trade routes to neutral small countries through looting and sabotage, attempting to damage the Land of Fire's commercial credibility.]
[Enemy response, stability: The Fourth Raikage uses iron-fisted methods to suppress nobles advocating peace, further stimulating war potential under centralized control in the short term.]

[Phase Three, 7 to 9 months, Political Division and Diplomatic Breakthrough]
[Our actions: Continue pressure and secretly fund opposition nobles inside the Land of Lightning.]
[Enemy response, political: Peace-favoring nobles may clash fiercely with the war faction, splitting the Land of Lightning's high command.]
[Enemy response, diplomatic: The Land of Lightning may secretly approach the Land of Wind, promising to supply specialized metal ores long-term at 30 percent below market price, attempting to break the Fire-Wind-Earth economic alliance.]

[Phase Four, 10 to 12 months, Full Stalemate and Multi-Party Involvement]
[Our actions: Increase military and financial aid to the opposition in the Land of Lightning and instigate internal rebellion. Simultaneously maintain a high-intensity border confrontation to deplete national power.]
[Enemy response, war: The Fourth Raikage shows overwhelming control, forcibly integrating domestic resources and forming a brutal confrontation with rebel forces. The war enters full stalemate. Hidden Cloud elites and rebellious noble armies clash in multiple regions, rapidly draining national power.]

[Other nations' reactions:]
[Land of Wind: As an ally of the Land of Fire, it likely maintains the blockade and receives significant technical and material assistance, steadily increasing national strength. It is content to see Fire and Lightning confront each other.]
[Land of Earth: Publicly stays neutral and honors the blockade, but may secretly dispatch shinobi disguised as rogues to contact both sides in the Land of Lightning, selling arms for profit and keeping an ambiguous stance.]
[Land of Water: Long isolated, after Kirigakure detects continental tension, it may frequently dispatch reconnaissance units to infiltrate the Land of Fire's coasts, gathering intelligence and waiting for an opportunity.]

[Disclaimer: This deduction is based on the target's predetermined high-level personality and decision-making model. The System is not responsible for deviations caused by sudden changes in personality or unknown variables.]

Arashi noticed the frequent use of the word may in the deduction.

No wonder the System included a disclaimer.

However, this was sufficient.

He did not need the disclaimer.

He would use the deduction as a reference, not adopt it wholesale.

With five nations and countless people involved, the variables were too great.

Looking over the detailed report, Arashi's smile deepened.

(To be continued.)

Special thanks to BurglarOfTurds for sponsoring this extra chapter 🎉🎉🎉

Chapter 25: My Rules Are Rules!

The day after the grand ceremony, the sky over the Fire Capital was clear.

Yet the bloody pall over the courtiers' hearts had not faded.

At dawn, the civil and military officials had already assembled outside the Daimyo Manor, each one standing in silence.

The heads that had hung on the city gate yesterday, and the prince whose limbs were crippled and dragged away, were burned into everyone's memory.

The heavy palace doors opened, and the officials filed in.

A scent of sandalwood mixed with new lacquer drifted by.

Yet it could not mask the heavy scent of blood in their minds.

The officials took their places according to their new ranks, each bowing their heads, even deliberately slowing their breathing.

"Daimyo-sama has arrived."

The attendant's announcement rang out, and all the courtiers' bodies tensed.

Arashi, dressed in a dark, gold-patterned daily robe, emerged from behind the hall.

He wore no crown, his dark hair casually tied, his steps unhurried, his expression calm.

It was as if yesterday's slaughter had nothing to do with him.

The calmer he appeared, the more awe the officials felt.

"Greetings, Daimyo-sama."

Led by Ito of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, all the officials knelt in unison, foreheads pressed to the tiles, voices in harmony.

"Rise."

Arashi's voice was faint, emotionless.

He walked to the throne and sat, his gaze sweeping over the slightly apprehensive faces below.

"Today is the first Grand Court Assembly. If you have anything to report, speak."

Silence fell over the hall.

No one dared to speak first.

Yesterday's tragedy was vivid in their minds. Who knew which wrong word would send them down Saionji Takashi's path?

Arashi did not urge them.

Time passed, and the oppressive air drew cold sweat from the foreheads of older officials.

Finally, a burly military official stepped forward.

He was the newly promoted commander of the City Guard.

He knelt on one knee, his voice booming.

"Reporting to Daimyo-sama, in accordance with your decree, the City Guard, in coordination with the Anbu, completely purged all rebels and their factions within the city last night."

"The principal offender, Saionji Takashi and his three clans, and the accomplice, Chiba Shu, have all been dealt with per your orders. Order in the city has been restored. Please instruct us further, Daimyo-sama."

Arashi did not lift his eyelids.

"Mm."

The commander understood, bowed, and returned to position with crisp movements.

With the ice broken, the atmosphere eased slightly.

Tanaka Shigeru, Minister of Finance, stepped forward.

He bowed and reported, "Reporting to Daimyo-sama, the Ministry of Revenue urgently reports that autumn grain collection across all regions is proceeding smoothly. Because you abolished exorbitant taxes and levies, the people are enthusiastically paying. It is estimated this year's treasury income will be three tenths higher than previous years."

"Additionally, the Ministry of Works reports that all projects of the Three-Year Revitalization Plan are progressing rapidly. Expansion of the Fire Capital is one-third complete, and planning blueprints for various local towns have also been issued..."

Tanaka reported more than ten items in one breath, all good news.

These policies, once considered troublesome, had unleashed astonishing efficiency under the new Daimyo's iron fist.

After reporting, he lowered his head and waited for approval.

You could have heard a pin drop.

Just when everyone expected only a cold reply as before, Arashi spoke.

"Not bad."

"Keep it up."

Tanaka's anxious expression turned to surprise.

Behind him, ministers involved in the revitalization plan exhaled in relief.

Praise.

Daimyo-sama had actually praised them.

These four short words excited them more than any reward.

It meant that as long as they worked diligently and performed well, they would gain the Daimyo's recognition.

In an instant, all the ministers' gazes shifted.

Fear remained, but fervor to prove themselves ignited.

Arashi took it all in, a slight curve at his lips.

This was the effect he wanted.

As the court atmosphere eased, the gray-haired Minister of Internal Affairs, Ito, stepped forward.

"Your subject Ito has a memorial to present."

"Speak," Arashi said.

"Daimyo-sama, you have struck down foes both within and without with thunderous might, your achievements unmatched through the ages. Now that the new order has been established and good governance has already taken root, this humble minister believes we should follow precedent and proclaim a general amnesty across the land. It would reflect your mercy and bring peace to the people's hearts."

Many ministers nodded.

A general amnesty was customary for a new monarch, a way to win hearts and gain reputation with no downside.

In their view, the killings yesterday were too severe, and it was time to use conciliatory measures.

Arashi chuckled softly, his tone turning cold.

"Mercy?"

"My mercy is for law-abiding, hardworking citizens."

"It is for civilians who lost loved ones and were displaced by war."

"It is not for criminals who steal, rob, and oppress their communities."

He looked at Ito, prostrate on the floor.

"Criminals are criminals. Since they violated the laws of the Land of Fire, they should reflect on their crimes in prison."

"Releasing them to continue harming my people, what benevolence is that?"

Ito trembled, his back soaked with cold sweat.

He had not expected such a direct refusal, backed by an irrefutable reason.

As a veteran of three reigns, Ito spoke up. "But, Daimyo-sama, since ancient times, new rulers have followed this precedent. It is a long-standing custom that marks the dawn of a new era…"

"Customs?"

Arashi interrupted, leaning forward slightly.

"From the moment I took this seat."

"My rules are the rules."

His voice was not loud, but it struck everyone like a hammer.

"Lord Ito."

"Are ancient precedents more important, or are the heads on the city gate more convincing?"

Ito's mind went blank, as if struck by lightning.

Those calm words almost suffocated him.

"This old subject misspoke. I deserve death," he stammered, kowtowing, his aged body shaking. "Please forgive me, Daimyo-sama."

Arashi leaned back into the throne, indifferent. "Withdraw. Do not repeat this."

"Thank you, Daimyo-sama..."

Ito, as if receiving amnesty, trembled as he retreated.

Silence settled again.

Everyone understood.

Those who act are rewarded.

Those who talk too much invite death.

This ruler cared nothing for tradition. His rules were simple, clear, and beyond challenge.

The atmosphere solidified.

A quick-witted minister's eyes flickered, and he stepped out.

"Your subject has a memorial."

"Speak."

Kneeling, he said with a fawning smile, "Daimyo-sama, you have ascended the throne, yet there is no lady to attend to you, and the foundation of the realm remains unsettled. This is not a blessing for the nation."

"This humble servant beseeches you to take a consort and beget an heir, that the hearts of the people may be at ease."

Many immediately agreed.

An heir, tied to the nation's destiny, was paramount.

And if a woman from one's own family were chosen, that family would rise in a single step.

Arashi lightly tapped the armrest.

"There is no rush."

The minister quickly followed up.

"Your wisdom is sound. Marriage can be postponed."

"But you handle myriad affairs and need a confidante."

"This subject believes concubines can be taken first, selecting women of dignified appearance and character from noble and prominent families to enter the palace."

"First, to extend your lineage. Second, to display your grace and authority, and soothe the officials' hearts."

Taking concubines.

Extending the lineage.

Arashi stopped tapping.

He had not given it much thought. Conquering the world was the real business.

But the ministers seemed even more eager than he was.

Very well.

Since it was raised, going along with it would do no harm.

He nodded.

"Mm, there is some truth to that."

"There is no need to limit it to nobles and prominent families. Choose from within the country."

"My manor's steward will handle it."

The minister was overjoyed and answered excitedly, "Daimyo-sama is wise. Your subject obeys."

He knew he had played his move well.

The other ministers had mixed thoughts.

Some regretted not stepping forward first. Others were already calculating which daughter to send into the palace.

An invisible competition had begun.

Arashi took everything in, then stood.

For him, this was only an interlude on the long path of hegemony.

"If there are no other matters, you may withdraw."

He gave no one another chance to speak, turning to walk toward the back of the hall.

"Farewell, Daimyo-sama."

A thunderous response rose behind him.

Only after Arashi's figure vanished did the officials dare to straighten.

Many had backs soaked with cold sweat.

Thus ended the first Grand Court Assembly of the new reign.

(To be continued.)

Special thanks to BurglarOfTurds for sponsoring this extra chapter 🎉🎉🎉

Chapter 26: Within Reach

Three days after the coronation, order in the Fire Capital quickly returned.

The heads hanging on the city gates had not yet been removed, and wind-dried bloodstains still spoke of that iron-blooded day.

Yet the streets had already regained their prosperity.

The fear on people's faces was replaced by fervent adoration for the new Daimyo.

In their simple minds, the young master executing rebellious nobles meant he protected them.

That was enough.

The majesty of the Daimyo Manor enveloped every corner of the Land of Fire.

The old order was shattering, and new rules were taking root. The three-day period had arrived.

Namikaze Minato once again stepped into the Daimyo Manor.

This time, he came alone.

He did not wear his Hokage robe, only a Konoha uniform, looking capable and efficient.

On the way to the study, he saw many unfamiliar faces.

The new maids and guards no longer looked at him with the awe they once had.

He also saw several elegantly dressed young women, beautiful and poised.

In groups of three to five, they seemed to be admiring flowers, but their gazes toward the inner courtyard brimmed with undisguised ambition.

With a new king on the throne and an empty harem, this was a heaven-sent chance for any ambitious family.

Minato understood that everything here had changed.

He withdrew his gaze and continued forward.

Inside the study, Arashi leaned by the window, flipping through a commercial report, completely uninterested in the competition outside.

The afternoon sun fell on him, making him look more like a young master at ease.

"You are here."

Hearing footsteps, Arashi did not lift his head and spoke casually.

"Daimyo-sama."

"Sit."

Minato bowed and sat to the side, presenting a scroll.

"This is what you requested. The results of Konoha's internal affairs, and the preliminary plan for the Genius Cultivation Special Fund."

Arashi gestured for him to place it on the desk, his tone light. "Has everything been handled cleanly?"

"Yes." Minato's reply was a bit strained. "All Root members involved in the rebellion have been purged, and the remaining personnel have been disbanded, awaiting further review."

"Mm."

Arashi finally set down the report and sat up straight.

He did not look at the Root report, as if it were a minor matter.

His gaze fell on the plan. "Tell me your thoughts."

"Yes."

Minato steadied himself and elaborated.

The plan was comprehensive and fair.

Funds were divided into three parts, subsidizing outstanding Ninja Academy graduates, rewarding young Chūnin who performed exceptionally in missions, and funding research for new ninjutsu.

It focused on the village's long-term development, aiming to raise Konoha's new generation, without any personal aims.

He spoke in detail, earnestly.

Arashi listened quietly, expression calm.

Only when Minato finished did he pick up the plan, flip a few pages, and let out a soft chuckle.

"Minato, your plan is very good, and very well thought out."

Minato felt a slight relief.

But Arashi's next words tightened his chest.

"But it is still too conservative, and too dispersed."

Arashi placed the scroll on the table. His movements were gentle, yet they denied its value.

"What I want is not to spread benefits evenly."

He looked at Minato, patiently guiding him.

"Think about it. The Land of Fire's resources are limited."

"If nutrients are given equally to everyone, the result is universal mediocrity."

"The correct approach is to concentrate resources, letting the most promising few grow as quickly as possible."

"When they are strong enough to create a safe haven, only then can the weaker ones gain a stable environment to grow."

"The strong lead the strong."

"Only by first allowing a portion to become true powerhouses can they protect more people."

"This is the best way to make the Land of Fire prosper quickly."

These words stunned Minato.

He instinctively felt something was off.

But the argument that the strong protect the weak sounded reasonable, and he could not refute it.

"Therefore," Arashi concluded, "this investment should be more strategic. We must pour the best soil onto the top-tier seeds."

He lifted a finger, tapping the air.

"Yuhi Kurenai, her talent in genjutsu is once in a century."

"Might Guy, a pure taijutsu fanatic. With enough support, who can predict his limits."

"And Shiranui Genma, Ebisu... these people are treasures of our Land of Fire."

Finally, his finger paused.

"Oh, and the Third's son, Sarutobi Asuma."

Hearing the name, Minato's heart skipped a beat.

Asuma was in a rebellious phase and at odds with the Third, yet the Daimyo took notice?

"This young man is interesting." Arashi's smile held appreciation.

"He yearns to protect, yet is confused by the existing order. Such an unpolished gem is most worth carving."

"We should guide him, make him understand that what he should truly protect is the entire Land of Fire."

A chill rose along Minato's spine.

He finally caught that unease.

Every word from the Daimyo stood on the moral high ground, caring for the younger generation.

But together, they reached straight for Konoha's next generation.

"Daimyo-sama."

Minato could not help speaking, urgency in his tone. "Asuma and the others are still young, their minds are not settled."

"The ninja path requires tempering of will."

"Giving them too much too early, I fear it will..."

"Will what?"

Arashi interrupted gently. "Make their path smoother? Let them serve earlier?"

"Minato, you are a genius, but sometimes your ideas are too idealistic, just like Sarutobi's."

"Willpower matters. But can a hungry man's will block an enemy's kunai?"

"How long can a ninja's will last if he cannot provide for his family?"

"Times have changed."

"What I want to cultivate are the nation's sharpest blades, the strongest fighting force of our Land of Fire."

"They must have unwavering will, and the power worthy of that will, and absolute loyalty to the nation."

Minato's lips moved, but he was speechless.

Every word was impeccable.

"Of course, I am not forcing you." Arashi seemed to see his struggle, and his tone shifted.

"You can treat this plan as a reserve for another scheme."

"The Twelve Guardian Ninja, you know that title, do you not?"

Minato certainly knew.

They were the strongest guards directly under the Daimyo, the highest honor a ninja of the Land of Fire could attain.

He instinctively replied, "But Daimyo-sama, do your Anbu not already handle your safety?"

That mysterious, powerful unit from the ceremony was unforgettable.

"Good question, Minato."

Arashi was not displeased. He looked at him with appreciation. "This shows you are thinking."

"Anbu exist to protect the Land of Fire as a whole, to be the blade over the enemy's head, the scalpel for internal cancers. They should not be confined to my side as mere bodyguards."

Arashi's voice carried force.

"I am choosing new Twelve Guardian Ninja precisely to free the Anbu from personal duty."

"So they can execute more important missions. Do you understand?"

"This is not for me alone. It optimizes the top-tier fighting power of our entire Land of Fire."

Minato fell completely silent.

The logic was flawless.

He framed a private guard as serving the nation's defense.

He felt caught in a net woven of righteousness, interests, and honor.

He could not see its full shape, but he felt it tightening.

Refuse?

How?

Refuse funding that would ease the village's finances?

Refuse an opportunity for Konoha geniuses to rise at once?

If he refused, even without the Daimyo's word, the village's families and shinobi would tear him apart.

"...I understand."

After a long silence, he finally spoke, voice hoarse and dry.

"I will revise the plan according to your wishes."

"Very good." Arashi nodded in satisfaction and settled back into his lounge chair. "I hope to see a new plan that reflects the Land of Fire's strategic vision."

"Go."

"...Yes."

Minato bowed again, turned, and left.

(To be continued.)

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