Chapter 78
Rossinante continued his journey, embracing the unpredictable twists of his adventure, while Zixu prepared to return to Ryūchi Cave.
After a long day of training, Aburame Hatsuizumi and her companions returned to their quarters to rest, while the other villagers and some shinobi worked tirelessly through the night.
Hyuga Chinano's other eye, known as the Akagan (Red Eye), had a unique ability—it could generate chakra phantoms that disrupted an opponent's perception. The chakra constructs it created could completely distort the Byakugan's field of vision, causing the user to see only the illusions while remaining blind to real threats. Due to its properties, the Akagan was a perfect counter to the Byakugan. In addition to its deceptive capabilities, it could also see through solid objects, sense chakra fluctuations, and detect danger—making it an invaluable tool in battle.
After weeks of effort, the foundation of their new village had taken shape. Never underestimate the productivity of shinobi. Even civilians, equipped with machinery provided by Orochimaru, worked with remarkable efficiency. Various buildings were scattered throughout the settlement, and though simplistic, they held an air of stability. Infrastructure development had also progressed, with power systems partially operational—electric lights flickered in different corners of the village.
The surrounding forests had been heavily cleared, with remnants of tree stumps burned to ash using Katon (Fire Release) techniques. The nearby river provided a convenient source for Suiton (Water Release) jutsu, aiding in irrigation efforts. Doton (Earth Release) techniques allowed the soil to be cultivated with ease, leading to the reclamation of large tracts of farmland. Various crops had already been planted, ensuring food security for the settlement.
Orochimaru had even suggested forming a joint research team of shinobi and skilled civilians to develop a specialized ninjutsu that could accelerate crop growth. Zixu readily approved the idea—after all, food sustainability was crucial for the long-term survival of their people. A self-sufficient food supply would grant them the endurance needed for prolonged conflicts.
Most of the shinobi who chose to follow Zixu and leave Konohagakure were progressive in their thinking. They didn't oppose collaborating with civilians; at the very least, they kept their grievances to themselves in Zixu's presence.
However, the integration of the Hyuga clan posed a challenge. Learning from the mistakes of Hiruzen Sarutobi, Zixu had no intention of allowing them to live idly. Instead, he assigned them the responsibility of teaching taijutsu to other shinobi and even civilians. No one would be allowed to freeload—here, everyone was equal, and each person had to contribute.
Naturally, a few individuals who had hoped to coast along, living off the village's resources without contributing, were displeased by this arrangement. However, Zixu paid them no mind. Once they boarded this metaphorical pirate ship, they weren't getting off so easily.
"Orochimaru has been surprisingly cooperative lately..." Zixu muttered, placing the crystal ball down and rubbing his temples.
By now, he had a solid grasp of Orochimaru's nature. There was no need to keep an obsessive watch over him. Occasional check-ins were enough. If the man dared to act up, Zixu would simply put him in his place. And if words weren't enough, a thorough beating would suffice.