LIGHTNOVELWORLD Chapter 110: Ending ll
---
Menma nodded without hesitation, his calm demeanor masking the immense power he carried.
Ajun felt a wave of relief wash over him. As a proud Takigakure ninja, he believed in the strength of his village. With their considerable numbers and the Seven-Tails, Chōmei, within their borders, Ajun was confident that no outsider, not even Menma, could threaten them. Yet, his confidence was rooted in ignorance of Menma's true identity. He had no idea that the young man standing before him could channel the power of the Nine-Tails, potentially unleashing the strength of five or even six tails. If Menma chose to, he could reduce Takigakure to ruins.
After all, there was a clear hierarchy among the tailed beasts.
From the One-Tails to the Seven-Tails, the difference in strength was minimal, primarily varying in chakra reserves. However, the Eight-Tails, Gyūki, represented a significant step above them. And then there was the Nine-Tails, Kurama—a being of unparalleled chakra and devastating combat power. In a one-on-one confrontation, the Nine-Tails would dominate any of the others, unless they united against it.
Legends claimed that the Sage of Six Paths had favored Kurama when dividing the Ten-Tails' chakra. Whether Kurama had received a quarter or even a third of the Ten-Tails' power remained uncertain, but its superior strength was undeniable.
Kurama was in a class of its own.
That said, even the tailed beasts were not invincible. They were vulnerable to the powers of the Sharingan and the Wood Release. Without these restraining abilities, even titans like Uchiha Madara or Senju Hashirama would have struggled to face Kurama in a fair fight.
As Menma and Ajun made their way back to the village, Takigakure's forces swiftly dealt with the remnants of the coup. Despite the chaos, the rebellion involved only a fraction of Takigakure's shinobi—perhaps two or three hundred out of the village's total ninja population.
The uprising, led by Shisha, had been a severe but localized threat. In a small village like Takigakure, even minor disruptions felt immense. Fortunately, Shibuki's loyal forces, bolstered by Menma's intervention, had quelled the rebellion. Neutral shinobi were now assisting Shibuki's administration, helping restore order, escort prisoners, and stabilize the fragile peace.
Though the fighting had been confined to the gates, word of the rebellion spread quickly. Villagers, still haunted by Shisha's earlier betrayal, whispered anxiously. Shibuki's public address reassured them. Standing tall before his people, he promised security and stability. While doubts lingered among some, no one dared openly oppose him.
For the first time in years, Shibuki wasn't standing alone.
As the village returned to its routine, Menma, Ajun, and the others were welcomed back. Shibuki himself stood at the main entrance, waiting to greet them.
"Ajun!" Shibuki called, his face lighting up as he saw his trusted subordinate.
Ajun felt his shoulders relax. The ambush by the Ame-nin had weighed heavily on him, knowing his team had only survived thanks to Menma, Tayuya, and Suigetsu. Without their intervention, Ajun knew he wouldn't have made it back alive.
Seeing Shibuki safe and unharmed lifted a heavy burden from Ajun's heart.
"Shibuki-sama," Ajun said, bowing deeply. "It's a relief to see you unharmed."
"You've done well, Ajun-san," Shibuki said, his voice steady but warm. "Your efforts ensured our village's survival. I'm grateful for your hard work."
Ajun hesitated, humility tempering his pride. "It wasn't just me, Shibuki-sama. Menma-san and his team played a critical role. Without them, I wouldn't have returned."
Shibuki turned to Menma, his gaze a mix of gratitude and curiosity. "Menma-san, I owe you a debt I cannot easily repay. Takigakure is in your debt."
Menma waved off the thanks with a small smile. "There's no need for that, Shibuki-sama. I did what I felt was right. Takigakure deserves peace, and I believe our cooperation can lead to great things."
Though reassured by Menma's words, Shibuki remained cautious. Menma's calm exterior and overwhelming strength hinted at power that could as easily disrupt peace as preserve it.
For now, Shibuki focused on rebuilding his village and restoring his people's trust. Together with Menma, he hoped to guide Takigakure toward a new era—one filled with hope but shadowed by uncertainty.
---
Takigakure's Political Hall
"No, this is my duty," Ajun said firmly, his voice steady with quiet resolve.
Shibuki nodded, his expression softening slightly. "Understood. See to the injured first. Once everything is handled, meet me at the political hall."
Ajun bowed deeply. "Yes, Chief Shibuki."
He turned to his injured comrades, many bearing deep wounds from the ambush. Takigakure had suffered losses, with several shinobi killed and more injured in the surprise attack. Leading the wounded out, Ajun moved with purpose, his loyalty to his comrades evident in every step.
As the room quieted, Shibuki turned to Menma, who stood with an unreadable expression. "Menma-san, please join me in the political hall."
Menma's Resolve
Menma nodded, his lips curling into a faint smile. "Of course." He turned to his companions, Tayuya and Suigetsu, standing nearby. "You two wait here for now."
"Yes, Boss," Tayuya replied with her usual bluntness, while Suigetsu gave a lazy wave of acknowledgment.
---
Inside the Political Hall
The political hall of Takigakure was a spacious chamber, its doors and windows sealed to ensure absolute privacy. Shibuki sat at the head of the room, his once-tentative presence replaced by a burgeoning confidence. On his right sat Menma, Karin, and Fū, each projecting varying shades of calm and composure. On the left, Ajun and three veteran Takigakure jōnin observed the proceedings with a professional sharpness.
"Thank you all for gathering here," Shibuki began, his voice steady, though grief lingered in his tone. "There are three critical matters to address today. First, the traitor Shisha has been executed. Those who conspired with him will face punishments proportionate to their roles. Ajun and Fushimi-san, I am entrusting you with the investigation and final actions."
Ajun inclined his head sharply. "Yes, Chief Shibuki."
Fushimi, a dark-haired man with striking green eyes and ornate earrings, added, "It will be done, Chief. I'll ensure every detail is handled thoroughly."
"Good." Shibuki's gaze lingered on them for a moment before he pressed forward.
"The second matter pertains to our honored guests." His eyes moved to Menma and Karin. "Menma-san and Karin-san have officially joined Takigakure. With the endorsement of Elder Mizuno, I have approved their integration. They will assist in both operational and administrative capacities moving forward. I expect your full cooperation."
Menma inclined his head respectfully, a polite smile gracing his lips. "I am grateful for the opportunity. I look forward to working alongside all of you."
Karin followed suit, bowing low. "Thank you for welcoming us. I'll do my best to support the village in every way I can."
The Takigakure jōnin exchanged brief glances before responding with polite acknowledgment. "We welcome you both. Your presence will undoubtedly strengthen our village."
Shibuki's voice grew heavier as he continued. "Finally, the third matter is a solemn one. Elder Mizuno passed away earlier today. As one of Takigakure's most respected figures, his loss marks the end of an era. His funeral will be conducted with the utmost care and respect. Duolan, I am assigning you to oversee the preparations, with my direct involvement."
Duolan, a tall man with an authoritative presence, straightened in his seat. "Understood, Chief. I will begin immediately."
A heavy silence settled over the room. For years, Elder Mizuno had been a pillar of wisdom and guidance. His absence left a void not easily filled.
---
After the Meeting
As the council dispersed, Shibuki turned to Fū, who had been unusually quiet throughout the proceedings. "Fū, I want you to remain in the village for now. With tensions high and the funeral approaching, your safety is my priority."
Fū nodded solemnly, her usual vibrance dimmed by grief. "I understand, Shibuki. I'll stay close."
She stood and left the room, her shoulders slumped. For Fū, Elder Satoru was more than a mentor—he was family. His loss cut deeply.
Shibuki sighed, his heart heavy as he turned back to Menma. "Thank you for your support today. Your presence has already brought stability to the village."
Menma's expression was neutral but thoughtful. "I'm here to help, Chief Shibuki. A stronger Takigakure benefits us all."
Shibuki studied Menma for a moment before nodding. "I trust we'll rely on each other moving forward."
Menma inclined his head. "Of course. But for now, I have loose ends to tie up. I'll need to transfer my equipment and laboratory here. Once that's done, my team and I will fully integrate."
"Understood. Let me know if there's anything else you require," Shibuki said firmly.
Menma hesitated briefly before speaking. "Just one thing—a secure location for my team to settle. Somewhere suitable for conducting research and training."
Shibuki nodded. "Consider it done."
As Menma turned to leave, Shibuki spoke again, his voice softer. "Fū and I owe everything to Elder Mizuno's guidance. He was like a father to us." His gaze was distant, filled with resolve. "Moving forward, I have to stand on my own—for the sake of this village."
Menma's eyes narrowed slightly, recognizing the weight of Shibuki's words. "You're already proving yourself, Shibuki. Takigakure is in good hands."
With that, Menma left, his mind already working through the steps ahead. He would need to meet with Orochimaru, secure his resources, and finalize the foundation of this alliance.
As the door closed behind him, Menma glanced back briefly. Shibuki was strong—and growing stronger. For now, their partnership aligned. But Menma couldn't shake the thought: allies today could be obstacles tomorrow.
Still, for Takigakure's sake—and his own—Menma resolved to see this alliance flourish, at least for now.
---