CH - 162 Puppet Show!
At that moment, Sasori's performance of the Hundred-Puppet Maneuver began, and Hanzo immediately turned his head to watch the show. Although it was called the Hundred-Puppet Maneuver, it was simply a collection of puppets in action. Moreover, they were controlled by fine threads, not chakra threads.
"It seems this guy doesn't want to expose himself," thought Akihiko as he observed Sasori. Yet, the densely packed puppets, manipulated solely by Sasori's hands, created a unique and mesmerizing scene.
In the scene, a barren land unfolded, and through the abilities of the small puppets, a transformation emerged. Some puppets carried bricks, others paved roads, and more constructed buildings. Even when they encountered problems, two puppets would engage in an argument. These intricate movements made the puppets seem alive, prompting involuntary exclamations of amazement from the audience.
As the scenes progressed, everyone was left awestruck. A serene and vibrant village appeared before their eyes. Particularly, the symbol for 'grass' in the village became apparent, leading to a collective realization.
"This... this is the reconstruction of Grass Village?!" The spectators comprehended the remarkable resemblance to Grass Village. This performance from the Third Factory left a profound impression upon them, earning praise for their ingenious idea.
The original Grass Ninjas, witnessing the puppets meticulously constructing Grass Ninja Village, felt a surge of emotion. It was akin to seeing a reflection of their own past—rebuilding Grass Village, revitalizing the Land of Grass under the guidance of their leader. Now, they beheld the present... the thriving Land of Grass.
Even Pakura nodded in earnest after witnessing the performance, acknowledging, "This guy... has the talent to become a puppeteer."
However, Akihiko, upon hearing this, his mouth couldn't help but twitch a little. Talent? This guy 'is' a genius puppeteer.
Soon, the performance concluded, and the venue exploded in enthusiastic applause, surpassing even the previous rounds. All eyes were fixed on the miniature representation of Grass Village, marveling at its beauty.
"Impressive," Hanzo nodded contentedly. "He truly deserves my attention!"
Then, he glanced at Akihiko beside him with a cheerful expression. "How about it, Leader Akihiko? This time, I won't let you steal the genius from the Rain Village."
Akihiko's mouth twitched once more as he suppressed the urge to retort, instead chuckling lightly. "Don't worry, I won't steal. Let's just enjoy the performance."
As the host's voice faded, the next act began, and the audience once again immersed themselves in the spectacle. Meanwhile, Hanzo continued relishing this rare and special evening. As for Sasori? He planned to offer his commendations once the event concluded.
…
At this moment, Sasori, who had already stepped down from the stage, was oblivious to the fact that he had become the focus of attention.
Internally sighing, he observed the lively scene unfolding before him. Frankly speaking, he never expected that he, a genius puppeteer from the Sand Village, would one day perform his incomplete secret technique, the Red Secret Technique: Performance of a Hundred Puppets, on a stage.
But, truth be told, Sasori found the event rather intriguing. However, he knew it was time to depart. Gazing at the jubilant crowd, he absentmindedly touched his pocket, where he kept the salary he had received recently. Despite the leaves he had taken to 'prepare for performance', the pay was quite substantial, complemented by a bonus due to his 'significant contributions' to the factory.
He intended to utilize this money to make some purchases before his departure. Following his devised plan, since the Land of Rain was sealed off, he had decided to exit from within the Land of Grass.
He had heard that the Land of Grass didn't impose a lockdown and welcomed many ninjas from other villages. As long as one registered and adhered to the village's regulations, there would be no issues.
Luckily, possessing the factory's information certificate meant he didn't need further registration. Departing from here wouldn't pose any complications.
As Sasori descended from the stage, contemplating his departure, he found himself encircled by colleagues and the factory manager who had followed him.
"Your performance was incredible, Sasori!" they exclaimed in admiration, showering him with praise. "I bet, even the puppeteers from the Sand Village couldn't create such a spectacular show"
Internally, Sasori was speechless at their oblivious comments. Puppeteers were supposed to be lethal ninjas, not performers. Despite his thoughts, he maintained a composed nod, unable to stifle a slight smile that tugged at the corners of his mouth, a detail that even escaped his notice.
The factory manager, dismissing the others, cheerfully suggested, "Alright, Scorpion has been performing for quite a while and might need a break. Let him rest and enjoy the rest of the show." He nodded in approval, acknowledging Sasori's calm demeanor. "I was Right, You're indeed an exceptional young talent. But remember, young people need to be more cheerful. Everyone is praising your performance. Come on, give us a smile."
Sasori's expression remained impassive as he glanced at the factory manager. If it weren't for this bastard... would he have even come here? Disregarding the sentiment, he simply stated, "I'm leaving," signaling his intent to depart.
"Eh? Leaving so soon? Won't you stay and watch the rest of the performance?" The manager expressed confusion upon hearing Sasori's intention to leave.
"Not interested," Sasori responded indifferently.
"But... there's going to be a selection for the most popular performance. Your act was exceptionally well-received, so you have a great chance," the manager tried to persuade him.
"Boring. I'm not interested," Sasori snorted dismissively.
"But… if you win, the first-place prize is a substantial one million. However, The winner has to go on stage in person to receive the award," the manager added, frowning. He then sighed, conceding, "Forget it. It seems you're tired. I'll ask if the factory can represent you..."
Before the manager could finish his sentence, Sasori turned back and walked towards him. The manager, perplexed, questioned, "Huh?" But before he could inquire further.
Sasori, looking at the manager, said expressionlessly, "It's ending anyway. Let's watch it and then leave."
The factory manager wore a speechless expression. Wasn't Sasori just saying he wasn't interested? Why the sudden change?
"Where's my seat?" Sasori asked with a calm face, showing no hint of shame. Fine, let's watch it. As long as he watches, he'll get a million. This is equivalent to an S-rank mission. Perfect, he can use this as funds for his departure.
With an expressionless face, Sasori took the indicated seat. He raised his head and observed the performance on the stage. Not bad, quite interesting. But... not as good as his, he thought with a sense of self-assured superiority.
…
The event gradually came to a close, one performance after another concluding with music and fireworks filling the sky. The host rose once more, declaring, "In this moment of joy and celebration, our event has reached its end..."
As the joyous occasion wound down, the time arrived for the crucial announcement of the audience's favorite performance. Unsurprisingly, the ultimate winner was the Puppet Manipulation - Grass Village Reconstruction act.
Amidst the applause, Sasori ascended the stage to receive the award. However, when the host inquired, "Do you have anything to say?"
"No," Sasori replied without a second thought.
"Any feelings about winning the award?" The host swiftly adjusted the question upon hearing Sasori's concise response.
"No particular feelings," Sasori reiterated, his demeanor unwavering.
"Any thoughts about your performance?" The host tried again, slightly bewildered.
"No," Sasori maintained his stoic expression, leaving the host somewhat exasperated. With a strained smile, the host persisted, "Is there anyone you'd like to thank? Perhaps the factory manager or your supportive colleagues?"
This time, Sasori paused briefly, seemingly recalling, then nodded. "Yes."
He turned to the factory manager, his expression unchanged, and uttered, "Thank you, Factory Manager."
Though he voiced gratitude, inwardly, Sasori's thoughts towards the manager weren't exactly appreciative.
Despite Sasori's inner reluctance, the factory manager, moved by Sasori's expression of gratitude, wore a smile on his face. He nodded proudly and gestured to those around him, proudly announcing, "See? See? This is our factory's kid, His name is Sasori!"
"Thanks to the factory manager? It seems Sasori-san believes in the factory manager, attributing his success to the manager's support. Let's show our appreciation with applause." The host swiftly concluded the interview upon hearing Sasori's words. He then waved his hand theatrically, announcing, "Next... our leaders, Akihiko-sama and Hanzo-sama, will present the award to Sasori."
At this declaration, Sasori's expression shifted, a hint of surprise flashing across his face. 'Those two were going to present the award?' Trying to maintain his composure, Sasori glanced at the two leaders, trying to discern any signs of suspicion or recognition in their expressions.
Observing Akihiko and Hanzo approaching with smiles, especially the Grass Village leader looking directly at him, Sasori's heart raced. Doubts and apprehensions flooded his thoughts. "He shouldn't have been discovered, right?" he wondered, the suspense intensifying as the two influential figures closed in.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
.
.
.
You can read 10+ chapters ahead of everyone on my Patreon
p@treon.com/Kaiszer
(replace ' @ ' with ' a ' for the link