17: New Strategy of the Wind Shadow, Spy of Konoha

Kazekage’s office.

The massive floor-to-ceiling windows offered a panoramic view of almost the entire Hidden Sand Village; golden sunlight poured in, yet it brought no warmth.

The newly appointed Fourth Kazekage, Rasa, stood with his hands behind his back before the window; the God Robe, symbolizing the Village’s highest authority, felt like a heavy shackle on him at this moment.

The Village was too poor.

The people’s hearts were too scattered.

Those two old fellows from the Elder Council, Chiyo and Ebizo, claimed to be assisting, but more than half of the Jonin in the Village only recognized their commands.

His position as Kazekage felt like a joke.

Power must be held in his own hands.

Prestige must be established through the most intense means.

Rasa’s gaze suddenly sharpened, like a traveler in the desert seeing an oasis after running out of water, but also seeing the venomous scorpion lurking beside the oasis.

The disappearance of the Third Kazekage was a great humiliation for Hidden Sand Village.

But this humiliation was also his best excuse.

An excuse to bare his fangs at Konoha.

“Someone!” Rasa’s voice was cold, echoing in the empty office.

The door was pushed open, and several Anbu Ninja knelt on one knee, silently.

“Pass down the order, summon the Jonin Council.”

“To decide on using the exchange of goods and materials between the two countries as an excuse to send a merchant caravan to Konoha.”

Rasa turned around, slamming his palm flat on the sand table map on the desk, his finger pressing heavily on the location of the Land of Fire’s capital—Konoha Village.

“I want to know if Konoha’s blade is still sharp!”

“I want to know how many reserves they have, and what scale of war they can support!”

His voice was not loud, but every word carried an undeniable resolve and a scent of blood.

War was the fastest way to seize power.

To use an external victory to cleanse internal instability and consolidate his absolute rule as the Fourth Kazekage.

This was Rasa’s plan.

…

First Training Ground.

Yellow sand filled the sky, strange rocks stood everywhere, and heat waves rolled.

“Hah!”

Zi Luo’s fist, accompanied by a whistling wind, heavily struck the wooden stake, causing the entire stake to tremble.

On the other side, Qian quickly formed hand signs, and several Genjutsu clones instantly filled the training ground, making it hard to distinguish between true and false.

Tang Yan, meanwhile, sat cross-legged, his fingers flying, several Chakra threads dancing at his fingertips, controlling a practice spider puppet, practicing the most precise movements.

The past few days of festive revelry and relaxation had long been forgotten by the three.

The doubled training volume set by Tang Yan made Zi Luo look like he had been pulled out of water every day.

“Assemble!”

Maki’s figure suddenly appeared in the center of the training ground, his voice as steady as ever.

The three immediately stopped training and quickly lined up in front of him.

“There’s a mission.” Maki’s gaze swept over the three, finally landing on Tang Yan, “A-rank, or even higher.”

Zi Luo’s eyes instantly lit up, his breathing quickening.

An A-rank mission?

This was a mission that only the Village’s most elite Ninja could undertake!

Qian also put away her lazy demeanor, her expression serious.

Maki continued, “The Village is organizing a merchant caravan to Konoha.”

“Konoha?” Zi Luo exclaimed, “What for? Aren’t we sworn enemies with them?”

“The stated reason is to sell gold dust crafts and spices, to promote trade exchange.” Maki’s tone was unperturbed, “The hidden mission is reconnaissance.”

“To investigate Konoha’s military strength, material reserves, and their true reaction to the disappearance of the Third Hokage.”

“Yashamaru and I will choose one to lead the team to Konoha, and I have a higher chance of leading the team.”

The air seemed to solidify.

Clearly, this was no longer a simple reconnaissance; this was the prelude to war!

Even Zi Luo and Qian felt the oppressive feeling of an impending storm.

“Sensei, our squad requests to participate in this mission.”

Tang Yan suddenly spoke, his voice not loud, but exceptionally clear.

Maki frowned slightly, “The leader of this mission will be the Village’s top Jonin, and accompanying personnel will be at least elite Chunin. You guys…”

“Whether we are qualified or not, you should know very well.” Tang Yan interrupted Maki, taking a step forward.

“Zi Luo’s Seven Day Breathing Method combined with his weapon techniques is the squad’s strongest shield, and his close-combat ability is rarely matched even among Chunin.”

“Qian’s Genjutsu is the best method for intelligence gathering and creating chaos, and her perception ability has also improved significantly.”

“And I,” Tang Yan looked up, directly at Maki, “My puppets can perform silent reconnaissance and vigilance. Although I am a Genin, my strength should be unmatched among Chunin. Most importantly, our squad works together seamlessly; we can overwhelm any Chunin squad.”

He paused, his tone becoming even more resolute and powerful.

“Sensei, you should be very familiar with our strength, right? We are still Genin simply because we graduated recently and haven’t had the chance to participate in the Chunin Exams yet. Or are you saying you think a Chunin squad whose strength is inferior to ours is more reliable?”

These words were less of a request and more of a forceful demand.

Zi Luo and Qian looked at Tang Yan in shock.

They hadn’t expected Tang Yan to be so bold, daring to speak directly to his Jonin squad leader like that.

Maki looked deeply at the thirteen-year-old boy.

In those eyes, there was no youthful impulsiveness, only absolute calm and confidence.

He was right, the Fifth Squad needed a sufficiently tough whetstone.

And Konoha was the best one.

“Good.” Maki uttered a single word, “If I lead the team, I will apply to the Kazekage for it.”

…

The atmosphere in the Kazekage’s office was so oppressive it was suffocating.

Elder Chiyo and Ebizo sat below, eyes closed, like two stone statues.

Rasa sat in the main seat, his face ashen.

“Regarding the choice of leader for escorting the merchant caravan to Konoha, I propose Yashamaru.” A Jonin spoke.

“Lord Yashamaru is Lord Karura’s younger brother, absolutely loyal to the Kazekage, and his strength is beyond doubt.”

Many people nodded in agreement.

Yashamaru, an elite Jonin, the Kazekage’s brother-in-law—this identity was a huge bonus.

“I object.”

A cold, hard voice sounded, it was Maki.

He stood up and surveyed the room, “This mission, ostensibly for trade, is in reality a covert operation. The leader needs a calm mind, meticulous planning, and a personality that can maintain a low profile in any situation.”

“We all acknowledge Lord Yashamaru’s strength, but his identity is too conspicuous; once he enters Konoha, he will inevitably become a key target of attention, which is detrimental to our covert operations.”

“Then who do you think is suitable?” Ebizo finally opened his eyes, a shrewdness in his cloudy pupils.

“Me.” Maki did not back down, “Me, and my Fifth Squad.”

“Nonsense!” A Jonin immediately retorted, “Taking three Genin to execute such an important mission?”

“Every one of my team members possesses strength no less than a Chunin.” Maki said in a deep voice, “More importantly, their combination of abilities is perfectly suited for this infiltration mission.”

Arguments erupted.

Chiyo remained silent, only observing Rasa in the main seat with the corner of her eye.

She wanted to see how this newly appointed Kazekage would handle this first mission assignment.

Would he choose Yashamaru, who was more closely related, or Maki, whose abilities were a better match.

“Enough.”

Rasa spoke, his voice not loud, but it instantly silenced the entire office.

He stood up and paced to the map.

“Loyalty needs to be proven by action, not by blood ties.”

“For this mission, I need a sharp blade that can silently pierce the enemy’s heart, not a clanging hammer.”

His gaze fell on Maki.

“Maki, the mission is yours.”

“Don’t disappoint me, and don’t disappoint the Village.”

The decision was final!

Everyone was stunned.

They hadn’t expected Rasa to reject the majority’s opinion and choose a seemingly bolder, yet more logical, plan.

Maki’s heart jolted; he knelt on one knee, his voice strong and clear: “Yes! Lord Kazekage!”

Chiyo and Ebizo exchanged glances, both seeing a hint of solemnity in the other’s eyes.

This young Fourth Kazekage was more decisive and harder to control than they had imagined.

…

“Oh oh oh! Konoha! We’re going to Konoha!”

After receiving official notification of the mission, Zi Luo excitedly jumped and shouted on the training ground, like a child who had received candy.

“I’ve wanted to see it for ages! I heard the ramen there is the best in the entire Ninja World! And the three-color dango!”

Chiyo kicked him in the butt, scolding with a laugh, “Eat, eat, eat! All you know is eat! This is an A-rank mission; people could die!”

Despite her words, the excitement and anticipation in her eyes were impossible to hide.

That was the Ninja World's largest Village, the longed-for place for all Ninja.

Tang Yan stood by, watching the two lively characters, a habitual curve gracing the corner of his lips.

But in his heart, another flame burned.

Konoha…

He was finally going.

“Mount Myōboku.”

“Finally, a chance to make contact. Mount Myōboku, finding it directly is impossible.”

“But according to my memories from reading books in my past life, Konoha Village has a method of contacting Mount Myōboku that ordinary people don't know about.”

Tang Yan’s gaze deepened.

This trip to Konoha, for him, wasn't just a simple reconnaissance mission.

It was about finding the toads of Mount Myōboku, preferably to form a contract, or at the very least, to get their contact information.

This method of finding them, currently, only he knew!

Days later.

A caravan of over a dozen people slowly drove out of Hidden Sand Village amidst the sandstorm.

Tang Yan and the two others had changed into ordinary Ninja clothing, making them appear less conspicuous than before.

The journey passed without a word.

When the enormous “Fire” character gate appeared on the horizon, everyone instinctively held their breath.

Konoha had arrived.

Unlike the rugged desolation of Hidden Sand Village, Konoha Village was filled with lush green trees, bustling streets, and people coming and going, a scene of peace and prosperity.

But beneath this prosperity, Tang Yan sensed an oppressive and vigilant aura.

The Third Hokage's Anbu, and that organization hidden in the shadows, named “Root,” their eyes were fixed on every unfamiliar face in the Village.

The caravan was arranged to encamp in a designated area.

Maki issued the first command: “Free movement, but don't cause trouble. Under the guise of procurement, inquire about their military supply prices, such as Ninja tools, explosive tags, military rations, and so on.”

“Understood!” Zi Luo was the first to rush out.

Chiyo shook her head helplessly, followed him, and simultaneously observed the surrounding shops.

Tang Yan didn't follow; like a leopard, he silently leaped onto a rooftop, looking down at the area from above.

His gaze swept over every pedestrian, every vendor.

Suddenly, his vision fixed.

On the street corner, a vendor selling goods.

The person looked unremarkable, with a kind smile on his face.

But his stance, feet slightly apart, center of gravity lowered, was a standard combat-ready posture.

His hands, calloused from years of holding kunai, were deliberately hidden within his sleeves.

Most importantly, his eyes.

They were hollow, devoid of any emotion, like stagnant water.

He was observing Zi Luo and Chiyo.

It wasn't the curiosity of an ordinary villager, but the scrutinizing gaze of a viper locking onto its prey.

“It should be Root…”

Tang Yan’s pupils suddenly contracted.

He hadn't expected to be targeted so quickly.

Since you want to play, I'll play along properly.

He made a cautious gesture towards Chiyo below, who was inquiring about the price of kunai from the owner.

Chiyo saw the gesture, her heart tightened, and she nodded imperceptibly.

The next second, Tang Yan's figure vanished from the rooftop.

Ichiraku Ramen.

Upon pushing aside the curtain, a rich aroma of pork bone broth wafted out, carrying steaming humidity, as if instantly dispelling the dust from the three’s bodies.

“Boss! Three bowls of pork bone ramen!” Zi Luo plopped down, as familiar as if he were a regular, his eyes gleaming as he stared at the menu, almost drooling.

Tang Yan and Chiyo sat down as well. Chiyo chose a seat further inside, while Tang Yan sat on the outermost seat, just able to see the street opposite through the gap in the curtain.

“They followed.” Tang Yan said in a voice only the two of them could hear.

Chiyo’s body tensed almost imperceptibly; she didn't turn her head, merely picked up her chopsticks and tapped the rim of her bowl. “Should we shake them off?”

“No, they are well-trained hounds; shaking them off will cause alarm.” Tang Yan’s tone was calm. “Let them follow for now.”

At this moment, three steaming bowls of ramen were served.

Golden noodles soaked in creamy white broth, topped with thick-cut char siu, soft-boiled eggs, vibrant green scallions, and a few slices of Naruto Maki, the aroma became even more dominant.

“I’m digging in!” Zi Luo let out a cheer, picked up his chopsticks, and began to devour his food. The scalding hot noodles made slurping sounds as he ate, and soup splattered everywhere.

“Delicious! So delicious!” he mumbled indistinctly, “Ten times better than the dried scorpions in our Village! Chiyo, Tang Yan, hurry and eat!”

Chiyo tapped him on the head with a chopstick. “Quiet down! Do you want all of Konoha to know we’ve never eaten Ichiraku Ramen before?”

Zi Luo clutched his head, shrinking his neck in grievance, but his actions didn't slow down in the slightest.

Tang Yan slowly picked up a mouthful of noodles, but his attention wasn't on the food.

His gaze passed through the curtain, landing on a mask peddler across the street.

That face still held the same hollow, lifeless eyes.

The Root Ninja, as expected, were persistent.

He withdrew his gaze and looked at Teuchi, the owner, who was busy wiping sweat. “Boss, business is really good, isn’t it?”

“Haha, thanks to everyone!” Teuchi laughed heartily. “Young man, is this your first time in Konoha? Judging by your attire, are you from Hidden Sand Village?”

“Yes, we’re here to escort the material exchange meeting.” Tang Yan replied casually.

Zi Luo finished a bowl of noodles, licking his lips with lingering satisfaction. “Boss! Another bowl of your signature original ramen!”

That shout drew the attention of the few other customers in the shop.

Chiyo’s temple twitched; she put down her chopsticks, rubbed her temples, and lowered her voice. “Can’t you save some room in your stomach? There’s a reception banquet tonight.”

“The food at the banquet won’t be as good as this!” Zi Luo drank the last drop of soup from his bowl, letting out a contented sigh, “This is the taste of the soul! If I could eat this every day in the Village, I’d do anything!”

“Haha, young man, you really like our ramen!” Owner Teuchi was amused by him, and skillfully grabbed another ball of noodles. “Alright! The second bowl is half price, and I’ll add an extra portion of char siu for you!”

“Boss, you’re truly a good person!”

Tang Yan watched this scene, a faint smile playing on his lips.

Taking advantage of Teuchi’s busy moment, he naturally struck up a conversation. “Uncle, your shop has been open for a long time, hasn’t it? You seem very familiar with the people in the Village.”

“Yes, it’s been quite a few years.” Teuchi responded heartily while preparing the noodles. “Many children in the Village have been coming here to eat noodles since they were small, all the way until they grew up and became independent Ninja, and they still come back for a bowl.”

His words carried a simple pride.

“Konoha truly produces many talented individuals, and the environment is good too.” Tang Yan’s voice was steady, sounding like an ordinary lament. “Unlike our Sunagakure, with its strong winds and harsh environment, it’s not easy to make a name for yourself.”

As he spoke, he observed the outside of the curtain with the corner of his eye.

The peddler had changed his posture, pretending to arrange his goods, but his gaze kept subtly glancing into the shop.

Chiyo didn't participate in the conversation; she appeared to be quietly eating her noodles, but in reality, she took in everything around her.

Zi Luo’s second bowl of noodles was soon served, piled high with char siu like a small mountain, making his eyes widen.

“Boss Uncle is too kind, I’m digging in!”

As he once again made slurping sounds, Tang Yan’s body leaned slightly forward, his voice so low that it almost merged with the slurping, only audible to Chiyo beside him.

“Later, we’ll go to the busiest commercial street and lead him in. I want to see his limits.”

Chiyo picked up a slice of Naruto Maki, put it in her mouth, and chewed lightly.

She didn't nod or reply, but the knuckles of her chopstick-holding hand were steady and strong.

Zi Luo was oblivious to all of this; he was completely immersed in the happiness of his second bowl of ramen, his mouth full of noodles and char siu, mumbling indistinctly: “Chiyo! Tang Yan! Are you still eating? Ichiraku Ramen is truly… *hic*… amazing!”