195.Root's Shinigami Troops

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In terms of age, Onoki is even half a generation older than Sarutobi Hiruzen, making him the oldest ninja who has witnessed the legends of Senju Hashirama and Uchiha Madara. As the master of Dust Release, he stands unparalleled in both strength and qualifications among the Five Kage.

"Oh? Konoha's Fourth Hokage is quite the courteous one," Onoki commented with a mix of sarcasm and amusement. It's common for the elder to rely on his seniority and 'sell old.'

"Of course, because Konoha is a land of etiquette," the Fourth Hokage replied with a genuine smile. Although it appeared he was conceding, his response subtly insinuated that Iwagakure might lack such manners.

Failing to gain an upper hand in their verbal exchange, Onoki snorted dismissively and led his delegation, consisting of nearly thirty Genin, into the village, evidently aiming to make a significant impact during the Chūnin exam.

The final delegation to arrive was from the Rain Shinobi Village. "Your Excellency Hokage, Nagato sends his regards," said Konan, leading the team. Given Nagato's formidable power, his direct presence in Konoha would certainly have put everyone on edge.

"Thank you. I hope for peaceful relations between Konoha and the Rain Shinobi," the Fourth Hokage responded with a diplomatic gesture. The history of conflict between the two sides, marked by six years of war and mutual resentment, underscored the fragility of their current truce.

It was clear to all that the peace agreement was merely a temporary solution. Like two exhausted tigers, both sides were merely biding their time, waiting for the next opportunity to strike. The Fourth Hokage's observation that none of Akatsuki's key figures were present suggested that Rain Shinobi's intentions might be peaceful, for now.

However, Konan was aware that true peace was elusive. Nagato's plans for Konoha hinted at imminent conflict, aiming to bring suffering to the village. Yet, before any plans could unfold, Konan had a personal desire to reconnect with someone.

This opportunity arose when her guards inquired about Yuki directly to the Fourth Hokage, breaking a significant taboo by asking for information about another village's ninja. The Hokage was taken aback but couldn't help but be disarmed by Konan's "delicate and lovely" demeanor.

Kimimaro, another guard, explained their interest in Yuki, mentioning his role as their teacher in Rain Shinobi Village. Understanding the situation, the Fourth Hokage realized the complexity of Yuki's circumstances and his unintended impact as an educator.

"Teacher? I see," the Fourth Hokage said, gaining insight into Yuki's influence beyond Konoha's borders.

This acknowledgment highlighted Yuki's significant yet complicated legacy, blending his prowess as a shinobi with his unintended role in shaping the lives of those outside Konoha, even under duress from Akatsuki.

When Akatsuki kidnapped Yuki in the past, it was due to his exceptional skills as an educator. The intention was to leverage Yuki's expertise to train ninjas in the Rain Shinobi Village. The Fourth Hokage did not hold Yuki accountable for what appeared to be "collaborating with the enemy," understanding that Yuki had likely been coerced into serving as a teacher for the Rain Shinobi under Akatsuki's intimidation.

"It must have been difficult for him," the Fourth Hokage mused, sympathizing with Yuki's predicament and the internal conflict he must have felt. "Don't worry, Yuki is doing well," he reassured, emphasizing, "After all, Konoha is his home." This statement left Konan and her companions without words.

As delegations from around the world converge on Konoha for the upcoming Chūnin exam, it's evident that this event is of paramount importance. The participating countries are expected to showcase their most talented Genin, making this exam a microcosm of the broader competitive landscape among the ninja nations—a veritable "small arms race."

In an encounter with the Cloud Shinobi, Yugao, donned in a black Shinigami unit uniform, warns them away from a restricted area. Darui, a Cloud Shinobi Jōnin, feigns being lost as part of a covert attempt to gather intelligence on Konoha, acting on the Raikage's orders. However, realizing the proximity of Konoha's Anbu, he withdraws.

Similarly, Yuki intervenes when Mist Shinobi appear to stray off course. "Friends of Mist Shinobi, please follow the designated route," he directs, a subtle indication of Konoha's vigilance. Terumi Mei, surprised by his perceptiveness, complies with a polite acknowledgment.

These episodes of "lost" ninjas from various villages, attempting to probe Konoha's defenses, unfold throughout the village. However, most are thwarted by Konoha's Shinigami troops, a testament to their effectiveness as the village's protective backbone.

The Fourth Hokage commends these efforts, acknowledging the training and influence of Yuki, whose teachings in swordsmanship, physical conditioning, instantaneous technique, and Ninjutsu have shaped some of Konoha's most formidable ninjas. "Yuki truly deserves to be recognized as one of Konoha's greatest ninjas," Hyuga Hiashi admires, with Nara Shikaku noting his unparalleled influence.

Yet, beneath the accolades lies an unspoken relief among Konoha's leadership that Yuki has retired. His formidable presence, while a boon, had also been a source of unease for the village's administration, now somewhat alleviated by his withdrawal from active duty.