Escape From Konoha

Chapter 161: 157: Ceremony (1)

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Konoha, Uchiha clan.

In a snowy courtyard, an elderly man sat alone on the corridor, leisurely fishing with a rod.

Before long, footsteps approached from the corridor, causing the old man to turn his head slightly, spotting Uchiha Rindo walking towards him.

"The retired life is truly comfortable, Elder Sora." Rindo said jokingly, breaking the silence.

"I may be old, but I prefer not having to battle every day at this age."

"It's interesting to note that the Hyuga clan has become much more peaceful lately." Rindo stroked his chin as if thinking about something.

"Don't burden an old man with these matters." Elder Sora responded curtly.

"I merely wished to hear your thoughts. It could potentially influence the Uchiha clan." Rindo explained.

"Boring questions and answers. What do you require of me?"

Regarding the actions of the high ranking officials, or the actions of the Hyuga clan, the elder Sora had no intention of paying attention to them nor was he interested in knowing.

Compared to these matters, he preferred to focus on whether the fish he would catch was fat and if the maid at home could prepare a meal that would satisfy him.

"Do you know about Fugaku's child?" Rindo asked.

"The child with the girl called Mikoto? I believe their child was born in June this year."

Elder Sora recalled it carefully, and then remembered this incident. In June of this year, Uchiha Fugaku's child was born.

"Yes, the child's name is Uchiha Itachi.".

"Itachi? A fine name. And? how is it related to me?"

"Don't be so dismissive, Elder. Fugaku wishes for you to accept his child as your disciple once he grows up."

"..... my energy is not what it once was, and I have decided to withdraw from external affairs. After all, Fugaku is the head of the Uchiha. Can't he teach a child properly?"

Elder Sora's tone was cold. He understood Fugaku's true intentions. Fugaku is trying to use him to increase the significance of the Uchiha head to dissuade the radicals within the clan. Otherwise why would he want an old man like him to take his child as disciple? It might be a temptation as well.

"I'm merely conveying his wishes. There's no need to direct your anger at me, right?" Rindo responded, scratching his head helplessly.

"Instead of wasting energy on such boring tricks, it's better to concentrate on uniting the clan. Fugaku has been the head for only a few months, and he's anxious to achieve a legacy surpassing the previous generation. I understand his mentality. The more he fails to attain something, the more he desires to prove to others that he possesses that power. This immature stubbornness isn't beneficial for the clan." Elder Sora commented.

"Should I respond to him that way?" Rindo questioned.

"Advise him to perform well on the battlefield and not think of messy matters."

Elder Sora face showed disappointment, but he still gave a suggestion.. Although he held little expectations for the Uchiha clan within the village, he didn't expect that Fugaku, in less than six months, would be unable to withstand the radicals' pressure and secretly seek his assistance.

Fugaku wished to be resolute with the clan, yet couldn't harden his heart. He wanted to accommodate the clan in every way but remained dissatisfied with the radicals' methods, refusing to communicate with them and rejecting their ideas blindly.

Elder Sora simply hoped that this war would help Fugaku mature and dissuade him from viewing the clan with such immature perspectives.

However, Elder Sora understood that this was a challenging endeavor. The negative influence of the Sharingan on one's thoughts and personality was undeniable. Pessimists would only perceive pessimism. Fugaku was merely one of the casualties.

"Understood. I will make it clear to him." Rindo acknowledged and left.

He had only acted as a messenger and, sensing that Elder Sora was in a bad mood, he decided to leave.

.....

In the cold winter, the people of the Land Of Demons still felt the warmth of the sun from the sky.

Despite life being slightly better for the people in the country, they were still accustomed to storing more food at home to survive the harsh winter.

In an era where a significant portion of the workforce remained unliberated, both those in war zones and peaceful regions endured a modest way of life. Naturally, those in war-torn areas faced even greater challenges.

Before the upcoming New Year's festival, Shiraishi, with some free time on his hands, led an expedition to explore the rural areas.

The primary roads between towns in the Land 9f Demons had been improved, and even roads passing through forests and mountains had been cleared by skilled ninjas.

The development of rural roads was also in progress, although in some remote and challenging areas, the development faced difficulties. This development plan was crucial for the coming years.

Shiraishi didn't expect to revolutionize the way of life of the country's inhabitants overnight. Even with specialized professionals like ninjas, rapidly changing the lifestyle and the country's status was impossible in a single year.

For example, in the Land of Wind, if they could use water release jutsus to construct lakes in the country, the country would have already been implemented it changing the status quo easily. This would have eliminated the necessity of annually importing water sources at considerable expense.

Ninjutsu was time-sensitive, and the water flow produced by the Water Release were no different. When the chakra within the water stream disappears, the water flow would naturally disappear, and the resulting lake would also cease to exist. It was suitable for addressing immediate needs but not for providing a solution each time for a large population such as that in the Land of Wind.

The same applied to Earth Release and Lightning Release. However, some special jutsu were designed to be permanent, like the Wood Release.

As a result, Earth Release ninjas who lacked knowledge of professional road construction could only produce roads that would last for a while and after that the road would collapse immediately. The ninjas ninjutsu only speeds up the process rather than completing the work in one step. Otherwise, there would be little significance to the existence of civilians.

But by instilling ninja professionals with construction knowledge, it was possible for them to compete in the construction industry. Some specialized personnel could be equivalent to a thousand laborers. For instance, when Ruri used the Susanoo to transport building materials and Ayane used her Air God Strike to demolish old structures, huge manpower and resources were conserved, leading to cost reductions.

Shiraishi aimed for the reasonable utilization of every resource, understanding the significance of ninjutsu's convenience but also recognizing the importance of the morale of ordinary people participating in labor.

The great era wasn't shaped by people but by the collective efforts of humanity. History was created by the collective, not by a single person. In this world, unorganized people held no sway. Adapting wasn't a choice, but a necessity for survival.

After inspecting these remote rural areas, Shiraishi was largely content. While some regions were far from perfect, he believed in rewarding his subordinates' dedication rather than dampening their enthusiasm with excessive criticism.

With the New Year approaching, workers might be eager to return home to be with their loved ones, parents, children, and spouses. It was human nature to miss their families.

As a result, construction might slow down as some employees temporarily left to reunite with their relatives. Yet, as long as the work was completed by early spring, Shiraishi held no reservations about their dedication.

These inspections took nearly half a month, and although not every location was inspected, some key areas were randomly selected for review.

He had faith that his subordinates wouldn't forget their original purpose due to the improved quality of life. However, this trust was not a license for complacency. Shiraishi believed firmly that personal practice was the foundation of the right to speak, and he held himself accountable.

...

This time of the year, snow blanketed the land. Inside the room, a stove burned warmly, and drew formed on the windows.

After returning from the inspection mission, it was already dusk, and Shiraishi sat in the entrance, beginning to remove his shoes.

"You're back a bit early this time."

Ruri said from behind Shiraishi.

In the past, when Shiraishi conducted inspections, it would typically take at least a month.

As he removed his shoes, Shiraishi turned his head and offered a slight smile. "That's because I didn't inspect every location but chose a few places at random for in-depth investigations. Naturally, it was faster than the usual inspections."

Shiraishi noticed fewer slippers in the shoe cabinet and asked curiously, "Is there someone else here?"

"Hmph, you can tell just by looking." Ruri snorted softly, then turned and walked away.

Shiraishi, who hadn't been paying attention, proceeded into the living room, only to discover there was indeed a visitor. What's more, they weren't strangers. Ruri's mother, Miyoko Uchiha, and Ayane were seated and engaged in a conversation. The atmosphere suggested they got along rather well.

Ruri took her seat opposite them, picked up a teacup, and sipped her tea quietly. The living room lights illuminated the space, creating a bright and clean ambiance.

"Shiraishi is back." Miyoko greeted Shiraishi with a smile.

"Yes...."

"I feel like you're growing more and more manly. If you were twenty years younger, Auntie, might have to catch up with you."

Miyoko teased Shiraishi boldly, showing no fear of Ruri's presence.

Shiraishi became anxious about Ruri's possible reaction, worried that she might throw the cup out of her hand bursting her mother's head. But he was relieved when he saw react calmly by merely sipping her tea. She seemed accustomed to her mother's off-line behavior.

"But, I'm old now..."

Dressed gorgeously everytime, Miyoko maintained the appearance of someone in her twenties. To Shiraishi, she seemed the least qualified person to make such remarks.

"No, Auntie looks very young now, like a teenage girl." Ayane chimed in with a smile.

"Ayane-chan still speaks so sweetly. If only Ruri could be the same. Right, Ruri-chan?"

Miyoko covered her mouth and laughed lightly. Although she knew that Ayane was speaking politely, she still felt happy when she was called a teenage girl. Then she hinted at Ruri with her eyes, as if she hoped that she would also say some pleasant words of praise.

"Old women shouldn't try to imitate young girls by pretending to be younger.."

Ruri replied calmly, setting down her teacup. This retort made the corners of Miyoko's mouth twitch.

"Boys are indeed more fun. So, Shiraishi, I will take care of you tonight." Miyoko said with a smile, her eyes implying something more.

....

"By the way Auntie, why are you and Ayane here together?" Shiraishi asked.

"We're discussing preparations for the upcoming festival.".

Women typically put a great deal of enthusiasm into festive activities.

"Ah, I see. Carry on with your discussion, don't worry about me. I'll head upstairs to rest for a bit."

Shiraishi wasn't particularly interested in women's conversations and was exhausted, desiring nothing more than some rest.

While the three women talked about the festival's arrangements in the living room, Shiraishi retired to his room to catch up on some sleep.

Despite being a ninja and having more energy than most, the prolonged period of high-intensity work left him mentally drained.

He slept off in a drowsy state. When he woke up, he noticed that he was little thirsty and his nose was congested.

The bright morning sun was already outside, indicating it was the next day. The wind whistled, giving a cold impression, but it had the atmosphere of the New Year.

"Are you not feeling well?"

Ruri, beside him, opened her eyes, sensing something was wrong with his situation.

"Yeah, I seem to have a bit of a cold."

Shiraishi mumbled, covering his head in discomfort.

"You should take care of yourself more when you go out alone. Fortunately, you're a medical ninja."

Ruri sat up from the bed, then got out and prepared a cup of hot water. She found some cold medicine and placed it on the bedside table for Shiraishi.

"Sorry to trouble you."

Shiraishi said as he took the medicine and washing it down with a sip of hot water.

"Are you planning on working today?"

"No, I want to take a good rest at home. It won't hurt to delay the work for a day or two."

"Really? I was thinking of taking you shopping with us today." Ruri responded, her voice betraying a hint of disappointment.

"Given that I haven't made it to the grand festival, I'll focus on recuperating in the next few days. You all go and enjoy yourselves."

Shiraishi said, feeling somewhat dizzy. He couldn't help but think more if he had prepared more for his trip instead of rushing in, things might have turned out differently.

After taking the cold medicine, Shiraishi decided to stay put, not wanting to risk moving around.

Seeing Shiraishi in this condition, Ruri also felt it was inappropriate for him to go out at this time. He had been diligently working, and the nights at home were quite hard, so she thought he deserved a few days off.

After getting dressed, Ruri headed outside. They had Shadow Dancer make sure Shiraishi wasn't left unattended.

Once she was outside, Miyoko, and Ayane, were already waiting.

"It's strange, why didn't Shiraishi-kun come out?" Ayane asked, tilting her head in confusion.

"He has a cold, so he needs to recuperate at home today." Ruri replied.

"That's unfortunate. It does seem like Shiraishi-kun's body isn't as strong as it used to be." Ayane stroked her chin and spoke in a very professional tone.

"It's probably because he's been staying up late recently. Even though you're not married yet, it feels like you're in the honeymoon phase and can't get enough of each other. Ruri should show some restraint in this regard. But it's the same as when mom was young. Dad also worked hard to give birth to little Ruri." Miyoko chimed in with a laugh.

"What nonsense! Should a mother be saying that?"

Ruri blushed a bit. Shiraishi's cold was probably related to their passionate nights together.

Nonetheless, these needs were perfectly normal, and Ruri might have a bit more desire than the average person.

"Let's stop discussing such meaningless topics. I only agreed to come out to relax which made me push back my training." Ruri took a deep breath to change the conversation.

"Yes, Ruri is adorable. Let's put that aside. After all, the festival is quite lively, and you need to prepare."

"Auntie Miyoko has been here for many years, so you must have experienced many of the festivals. How does it compare to Konoha?" Ayane asked with curiosity.

"Konoha? I rarely return to Konoha during the New Year. Recently, I've only visited occasionally or used secret channels... It's difficult to compare them. Both have their own unique aspects. However, the Land Of Demons regional customs and culture are more prominent."

Having lived in the Land Of Demons for many years, Miyoko was well-acquainted with its customs and culture. It had a distinct culture, unlike the Land of Fire who believed in the Temple Of Fire 'The Buddha' and Konoha's 'Will Of Fire'

Moreover, the culture was shaped by regional customs and beliefs, with the Land Of Demons Miko culture being particularly unique.

Afterward, the three women strolled around Oni City's commercial street.

Ruri and Ayane wore clothing without emblems and covered their faces with masks, considering the sensitivity of their identities.

The Land Of Demons had seen an increase in foreign visitors, a result of Shiraishi's leadership. However, they had to be cautious about revealing their identities.

Ruri and Ayane were both renowned S-rank rebels who had defected from the White Fang team, making them well known figures in the ninja world.

Despite the fame, it also brought numerous downsides.

Shiraishi, on the other hand, was viewed differently. As Konoha provided little significant information about him, the villages saw him as a non-threatening medical ninja.

Viewed from that perspective, this assessment wasn't completely wrong. His personal combat abilities might be formidable, with the presence of his several clones, but his actual level was that of an elite jonin.

"Although Shiraishi doesn't have a clue about doing business, he has unique insights into business development. He has turned this commercial street into a bustling hub in just a few months."

Miyoko pointed out, indicating the various branded shops in the commercial street. Despite the apparent luxury of the products and stores, their pricing remained affordable, helping to stimulate the Land Of Demon's economy.

"Didn't you and Dad do this?" Ruri asked suspiciously.

"No, while the detailed development is indeed created by us, Shiraishi provided the grand strategy. He said very bluntly at the time that wealth was concentrated on the rich, and ordinary people can't get the opportunity to climb up the ladder. The goods in the stores will be monopolized by the rich, which will eventually lead to the downfall of the entire market. With dead money, it will eventually lead to the decline of the power of the country."

Ruri and Ayane might not know much about business matters, but they could see that even ordinary citizens, with loans from the Purple Rose Merchant Association, had begun their own businesses, and the market was thriving. It was clear that Shiraishi's grand strategy was accurate and was genuinely aiding the Land Of Demon's economic growth.

"Can the entire market really shift based on just one statement?" Ruri questioned.

"No, it might also have something to do with the roads." Miyoko said, her gaze fixated on the regular street beneath her.

Her expression hinted at a thoughtful insight. Initially, she had reservations about Shiraishi's proposal for road construction.

If not for Ruri threatening her with Sharingan, she wouldn't have invested in a project that appeared unprofitable.

She was, after all, a businesswoman, essentially an interest-exploiting vampire, not a charity organization. Benefitting the common people meant sacrificing her interests and diminishing her wealth. As a businesswoman, she was reluctant to engage in such a loss-making endeavor.

However, as a top ninja businesswoman, she had learned a valuable lesson: road construction, seemingly a money-losing endeavor, was, in reality, the path to prosperity. The capital invested would eventually lead to tenfold or even hundredfold return. Road construction wasn't only viable; it was also extremely lucrative.

With the opening of roads in the Land Of Demons, more businessmen were willing to come to the nation, which fostered increased business interaction. This rapid development was greatly attributed to the contributions of these foreign businessmen.

Different from Ruri and Ayane, who were concerned with product packaging, quality, and functionality, Miyoko, being a businesswoman, could see the bigger picture from the changes observed over the past six months.

An unprecedented transformation, unbeknownst to the ninja world, was quietly taking place in the Land of Demons.

They spent the morning picking and buying a multitude of products, with no concern for budget constraints.

The commercial street of the Land of Demons was wider and offered a greater variety of products compared to Konoha. This was due to not only the merchants from the Land Of Demons but also the substantial influx of wealthy foreign traders, resulting in the flow of wealth that naturally led to the rapid development of the commercial district.

"Ahh..... my stomach is full. I didn't expect to find such delicious food here."

Ayane said as she returned to their private room, where they could eat and drink openly without interruption from outsiders.

"You eat so much every time. You should consider losing some weight." Ruri said to Ayane as she looked at the empty plates in front her.

"It's not an issue; I just have a bit more in the chest department. My figure isn't out of shape at all." Ayane replied with a cough.

"It's fine, a girl who can eat is a blessing. But it's also a test of her husband's ability to earn. Ayane-chan can enjoy as much as she wants, Auntie will take care of the bill."

Miyoko expressed her fondness for Ayane's cheerful temperament. Even though she didn't always speak the truth, she was pleasant to be around.

"Thank you, Auntie Miyoko. In that case, I won't hold back. It would be a shame not to enjoy all this delicious food." Ayane replied.

And so, Ayane continued to eat and drink at the table for a long time. Although she ate heartily, her movements were elegant, free from any semblance of rudeness, making her appear like a well-mannered lady.

Ruri couldn't help but feel a twinge of jealousy as she watched Ayane eat her meal. Despite Ayane's hearty eating habits, it seemed like her only notable growth was in the chest area, which was not the case for most people who consumed so much food. Normal people would become fat pigs.

Ruri changed in her seat a few times, but Ayane showed no signs of stopping even after such a long time. As time dragged on, Ruri began to grow suspicious. Ayane's eating habits usually didn't take this long.

And then it happened...

Ruri noticed something was wrong. Ayane was taking much longer than usual to finish her meal, and it was dragging on excessively.

Something was wrong. Her complexion changed suddenly, her eyes turned a deep shade of red, and she locked eyes with Ayane, who happened to look up at that very moment.

Ayane's eyes were dull, her body was stiff, and the utensils in her hand hung suspended in the air.

"Hey, Ruri, you do this—"

Miyoko immediately recognized that Ruri had used her Sharingan to cast an genjutsu on Ayane.

While she knew that Ruri harbored resentment towards Ayane, using her Sharingan to manipulate her friend was a step too far.

Poof!

Ayane's body erupted into a puff of white smoke and vanished from her seat opposite them.

Miyoko's voice abruptly fell silent.

'A shadow clone?'

Ayane, the woman of deception who wouldn't speak a word of truth, showed cunning and an element of danger that Miyoko had never realized until this moment.