บท 250: CH - 245 A Spy from Konoha?

After praising the diligent Sasuke, Akihiko, following Kushina's suggestion, ventured out with them for a leisurely stroll. Fuso and Kana also joined in on the outing.

With substantial investments and recent advancements in scientific ninja tools, the Grass Village's infrastructure now bore semblance to a modern city. It was a stark contrast to the dilapidated landscapes of rural Konoha.

Yet, amidst his busy schedule, Akihiko had yet to address the proceeds from his recent endeavors. Moreover, the forbidden technique scrolls posed a considerable dilemma; they couldn't be integrated into the standard curriculum. Mishandling such techniques could result in fatal consequences. After all, even the seemingly innocuous Shadow Clone Technique demanded substantial chakra and good mental strength, due to its severe consequences on the mind.

Akihiko contemplated two potential options: either extend compulsory education to nine years and establish a higher institution akin to the Ninja Academy for the study of forbidden techniques, or implement an exchange system akin to those employed by the five major ninja villages, permitting select individuals to learn based on their contributions and qualifications.

However, the specifics remained unclear. Anyway, it was still premature to finalize any plans After all, mastering forbidden techniques was no small feat.

Moreover, it's important to consider that Konoha is likely grappling with its own challenges at the moment. So, it's better not to rub salt in their wounds. After all, we share a close bond as allies.

Nevertheless, Akihiko had already identified some comparatively simpler yet practical forbidden techniques for consideration. He intended to convene with Pakura, Yoshinori, and Hanzo to deliberate on the best course of action.

As they strolled through the village, Akihiko found himself with little to do. Kushina enthusiastically led her friend Mikoto around, acquainting her with the sights of the Grass Village. Despite Mikoto's initial reservations, Kushina's infectious cheer gradually eased her tension.

Observing the vibrant activity of the Grass Village, Mikoto couldn't help but be impressed. While she had gleaned glimpses of its development through the Shinobi Times, experiencing it firsthand was an entirely different matter. After all, the Shinobi Times... well, let's not dwell on that.

The remarkable progress of the Grass Village in recent years became evident as Mikoto beheld its bustling streets. It was a stark contrast to the struggles faced by Konoha in recent times.

Of course, considering Konoha's tumultuous past few years, its slower pace of recovery seemed unsurprising. After all, Konoha had endured its fair share of hardships in recent years

Akihiko didn't say much as he strolled around with the children, engaging in casual conversation with acquaintances and treating them to ice cream at the Ice City.

However, Sasuke appeared less at ease compared to Naruto, likely due to his singular focus on becoming stronger. It seemed he wouldn't have ventured out if Mikoto hadn't urged him to. For him, activities like this were perceived as distractions from his training. Nonetheless, after some initial reluctance, he reluctantly accepted the ice cream, eventually warming up to the treat. The delicious ice cream crafted by the Yuki clan also helped in winning him over.

Observing Sasuke's demeanor, Akihiko found him rather straightforward to understand. And he is adept at handling such 'focused' kids.

During their journey, they encountered Uchiha Obito, who appeared to be out acquiring provisions for the Uchiha clan. However, he seemed fatigued, likely due to a lack of rest the previous night.

Upon spotting Akihiko, Obito's initial reaction was one of excitement, as if he wanted to embrace him, but the timing was inconvenient, so Akihiko declined the gesture.

However, Obito's demeanor bore a tinge of resentment as he exclaimed, "Do you have any idea what I was up to last night?"

Akihiko comprehended the underlying sentiment behind Obito's words. It seemed like Obito sought recognition for his contributions from the previous night's endeavors. He even made a sarcastic remark about Akihiko's restful sleep, subtly hinting at his own sacrifices.

A sigh escaped Akihiko's lips at Obito's words. It appeared that Obito had matured significantly during his time at the academy, to the extent of evoking a sense of guilt with his words.

However, Obito's demeanor softened upon learning of Akihiko's intention to reward him. He quickly retracted his previous stance, insisting that his actions were merely his duty.

Subsequently, Obito provided an update on the state of the Uchiha clan. Although there was still apprehension and concern among them, they were gradually acclimating to the circumstances. Nevertheless, the majority of the clan members were ordinary individuals, thus complying with the directives of the ninjas.

As Obito prepared to depart, Sasuke halted him with a question about how to attain prowess and strength akin to his own. Obito was momentarily taken aback by Sasuke's inquiry.

With a sense of reassurance, Obito nodded, offering a pat on Sasuke's shoulder before lifting his gaze with a hint of emotion. "Read more books, stay informed with the news, indulge in fewer snacks, and ensure you get ample rest," he advised.

Though Sasuke appeared perplexed by Obito's counsel, Obito concluded with a cryptic remark, "You'll comprehend in due time."

Having imparted his guidance, Obito bid farewell and departed, leaving Sasuke to ponder his words.

Upon hearing Obito's assurance about Uchiha's situation, Mikoto couldn't help but feel a wave of relief wash over her. She marveled at Obito's transformation, remarking, "Uchiha Obito has truly matured!"

Kushina echoed her sentiments with a nod, adding, "He has indeed come a long way. The once impulsive Obito now exudes stability and responsibility. Oh, speaking of which," she turned to Mikoto, "Obito will be graduating in a few days. Let's attend his graduation ceremony together and offer our blessings."

With that, Kushina eagerly tugged Mikoto forward, leading her towards the shopping mall. "There's a movie theater ahead. How about we watch a film together? The new 'Flame Dragon Ninja' movie is a hit among children. Naruto loves it, and I'm sure Sasuke will too."

However, Mikoto couldn't shake off her confusion about why Obito was still attending school. After all, he had already graduated from Konoha and had proven himself as an exceptional ninja. Even Fugaku had acknowledged Obito's strength in a solemn tone, which made her wonder why he still needed to attend school upon arriving in the Grass Village.

Although Mikoto was curious, she found herself being whisked away by Kushina's boundless energy before she could even voice her thoughts. It seemed that the excitement of their reunion had fueled Kushina's enthusiasm to the fullest.

Meanwhile, Akihiko remained disinterested in the movie plan, opting to excuse himself. Moreover, Takeshi's arrival prompted him to attend to some other matters, leaving Fusa and Kana in charge of the children.

Upon reaching a spacious area, Akihiko glanced at Takeshi with a puzzled expression, inquiring, "What's the matter? Has something occurred in Konoha again?"

Takeshi met Akihiko's gaze with a peculiar look, his mouth twitching, he had also read about the recent string of misfortunes that had befallen Konoha. Moreover, The headline of the day, "Cursed Konoha," had only intensified his doubts regarding the village's state. In fact, despite the seemingly trivial nature of the incidents when viewed individually, it was the Shinobi Times that skillfully wove them together into a narrative of significant concern.

Regrettably, the Shinobi Times was still delving into the matter, and the true extent of the situation had yet to be fully understood.

Shaking his head gravely, Takeshi delivered his news with a somber tone. "The Guard Department apprehended a suspected spy ninja."

"Huh? That's all?" Akihiko's astonishment was palpable as he regarded Takeshi. The mere mention of a suspected spy hardly seemed significant enough to warrant his attention.

Given Grass Village's burgeoning prominence, the infiltration of spies was to be expected. Such incidents had become somewhat commonplace, with several instances of interception in recent times. Those proven to be problematic were swiftly addressed, while those deemed innocuous were typically released without much fuss.

Perplexed by Takeshi's demeanor, Akihiko probed further, sensing there was more to the situation. "What's the issue then? Is there something particularly peculiar about this case?"

Takeshi shook his head in response, dismissing any notion of complexity. "No, it's not a matter of complexity. It's just a matter of suspicion. He didn't resist apprehension and adamantly denied being a spy. However… he claims to be an acquaintance of yours," Takeshi explained, his expression tinged with bewilderment."He even asserts that you can vouch for him."

Puzzled by Takeshi's revelation, Akihiko furrowed his brow in contemplation. "Who is this individual?" he inquired, his curiosity piqued.

Takeshi hesitated momentarily before delivering his response. "It's Jiraiya, one of Konoha's Sannin. He's currently being detained by the border patrol guards, awaiting further instructions."

Akihiko's expression shifted from confusion to incredulity upon hearing the name. Jiraiya entangled in espionage once again?

…

In the subdued lighting of the border patrol department, Jiraiya's demeanor oscillated between anxiety and attempted levity as the door creaked open. His gaze snapped to the guard ninja entering the room, a glimmer of hope flickering in his eyes. "Please, I assure you, I harbor no ill will. Ha-ha, I'm just passing through."

Attempting to assert confidence, Jiraiya struck a self-proclaimed cool pose, hoping to convey his innocence. "Actually, I have a connection with your... well, your Chief Advisor. If you're unable to locate your leader, perhaps your Chief Advisor can corroborate my story."

The guard ninja's tense demeanor visibly softened at Jiraiya's mention of the Chief Advisor, as though a puzzle piece had fallen into place. "Ah, the Chief Advisor," he muttered, relaxation evident in his features.

Jiraiya's excitement surged at the apparent breakthrough. "You believe me?" he exclaimed eagerly, anticipation coloring his tone. "You should know, I've had... dealings with your Chief Advisor..."

However, Before he could elaborate further, the guard ninja's expression shifted, "Our investigation reveals that you have a history of suspicious activities within our village, Mr. Jiraiya," he declared solemnly. "Regrettably, we cannot release you at this time."

Utterly confounded by the abrupt turn of events, Jiraiya could only stare in bewilderment. What could possibly be happening?