Chapter 135
Zixu knew Jiraiya was only stalling for time with his words, trying to refuse subtly, but Zixu wouldn't give him the chance. After all, Konoha was still under the jurisdiction of the Land of Fire. No matter how powerful the village was, it couldn't defy the decisions of the daimyos.
"You might as well go ask now," Zixu said with an indifferent expression. Based on the timing, Haku's side should have already handled everything, leaving only the daimyo's order to be issued.
"Hmm?" Seeing Zixu's confidence, Jiraiya grew uneasy. Could it be that the Fire Daimyo would actually approve of Zixu's request? One more country meant one more competitor. There was no reason for the Land of Fire's daimyo to overlook that. If Zixu were truly allowed to establish a new nation, it would be problematic.
"Hahaha, fine. I'll go ask right now," Jiraiya said, feigning nonchalance. In truth, he needed to confirm it, unable to let Zixu and his group leave so easily.
"Hokage! I finally found you! There's an urgent call from the Daimyo! Please respond immediately!" A brown-haired man wearing a forehead protector with a face guard rushed over, sweat beading on his forehead.
"Oh, okay. I'll go right away. Yamato, show them around on my behalf. Hmm... although, it seems that won't be necessary," Jiraiya said, his tone shifting as if he suddenly thought of something. Shaking his head, he left quickly.
"Yamato? Tenzō?" Zixu smirked, amused. He hadn't expected Tenzō to change his name. Coincidentally, his new name was the same as Kaidō's daughter, which made Zixu feel as if he'd suddenly become a father.
"...Zixu?" Yamato—formerly Tenzō—stared at him, confused. He knew the truth about Zixu's rebellion. Now, he didn't know how to face him. Hatred? But Zixu hadn't harmed Konoha itself. Was killing the Third Hokage truly a crime? He couldn't be sure. Regardless, Yamato could no longer view Zixu as his student. The day Zixu left was the day he realized he had never truly understood him.
"Yeah, it's me. By the way, can we take a walk now?" Zixu said casually, pulling Rosinante aside. The man was rubbing his stomach, pretending to be dead after taking a hit. With most matters settled, it was time to enjoy himself... and gather intelligence.