章 81: Chapter 81 : Compensation!
"In any case, we cannot thank Konoha, who stood idly by," Kazuhiko declared firmly.
"Konoha has betrayed the Land of the Whirlpool and broken the covenant we made with the First Hokage! You've betrayed the very spirit of the First Hokage himself! So, Konoha, stop pretending and face our accusations honestly!"
After Kazuhiko finished speaking, he disregarded the Konoha elders who seemed quite embarrassed. He turned his attention to the Third Hokage, whose expression was equally grim. "I've said my piece; it's your turn to respond."
The Third Hokage gazed at Kazuhiko with a troubled look. "Clan Head, you speak with great responsibility. Do you comprehend the sacrifices I've made and my dedication to Konoha? What right do you have to claim we've betrayed the First Hokage's ideals? This is an affront to Konoha, an insult to me!"
Third Hokage had often presented himself as the heir to the First Hokage's legacy. He would visit the ninja academy and speak to the children about the Will of Fire, among other things. Kazuhiko couldn't ignore his words because they were a direct insult to him.
But Kazuhiko knew better. He understood the challenges Third Hokage had faced, but he disdained him more because of it.
"Let's not delve into the details. In handling the Land of the Whirlpool, you've indeed let down the First Hokage and the Land of the Whirlpool."
This struck a nerve with the Third Hokage, and he adopted a more solemn tone. "I admit, I made mistakes in handling that situation. But please understand, I had no idea that Mist Shinobi would attack the Land of the Whirlpool!"
Kazuhiko wasn't pleased with this response. "Sarutobi Hiruzen, is this the time for such explanations? Even the small Land of the Whirlpool had information; do you claim you had none?"
Kazuhiko saw through the Third Hokage's excuse and found it utterly disappointing. Using this reason to deflect blame was simply ludicrous. The people present, except for the two Konoha elders, shared his sentiment and wore expressions of anger.
Kazuhiko continued, "You also didn't know about Kirigakure's actions, but do you plead ignorance about Kumogakure, which blocked the waters of the Land of the Whirlpool? The fleet of Cloud Shinobi Village passed through the Land of Fire!"
Third Hokage stammered, "I truly had no knowledge of this. No one informed me."
Danzo then spoke up, "I was aware of this matter. Some ninja in our ranks made an error, were influenced by Cloud Shinobi, and allowed them passage. I've already dealt with those responsible for such actions."
Third Hokage bowed to Kazuhiko and apologized, "Clan Head, I apologize. I'm truly sorry."
Kazuhiko, who had been sipping his sake, found the situation amusing. "Ah, Konoha. Always apologizing for their mistakes, as if it's enough. Instead of apologizing, why not make amends?"
The Third Hokage and Danzo were left baffled by this outspoken young man. "Why is he not playing by the rules? We've apologized and bowed, what more does he want?"
Kazuhiko didn't have patience for their evasiveness. "Is Konoha only capable of apologizing? Is that the extent of your honor? It's too cheap!"
The Third Hokage and Danzo concealed their annoyance. "This kid doesn't follow the script. He should just forgive us. We've apologized and bowed; what more does he want?"
Kazuhiko didn't tolerate their evasion. "If Konoha truly seeks reconciliation, why not cede the four islands on the border between the Land of Fire and the Land of the Whirlpool? Those three small islands to the west of the Land of the Whirlpool, and one small island to the south. That would show your sincerity!"
Kazuhiko believed that, without stating his terms clearly, the elders and Konoha leaders would continue to evade responsibility.
"What? Impossible! You're asking for too much, demanding several islands as compensation!" Mitokado Homura exclaimed, slamming his hand on the table.
Mitokado Homura, who had been quiet until now, added with a gloomy expression, "Those are Konoha's territories. We can't possibly hand over those islands as compensation!"
Third Hokage and Danzo's expressions grew darker. "We didn't expect the Land of the Whirlpool to have such audacity."
"That's right. Those are Konoha's territories. We can't possibly give them away. Are you even capable of managing those islands?," Utatane Koharu added, her expression dark.
"I have confidence that we can manage those islands well," Kazuhiko said confidently. "You just have to give them to us."
"Oh, then let's put your confidence to the test," Third Hokage said, determined to teach this young man a lesson.
**********
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