LGHTNOVELBOOK Chapter 8: Tsunade and Kushina in Amegakure
The atmosphere in the negotiation room remained tense, though somewhat more relaxed after Tsunade's words. The leader of Konoha, always cautious, had listened carefully to Hanzō's offer. The possibility of recognizing Amegakure as a great village, along with the promise of advanced technology and land for Konoha, was tempting. However, Tsunade knew she couldn't decide without consulting her village first.
"I will consider it," Tsunade responded calmly, staring intently at Hanzō. However, her gaze was as serene as it was determined. "This decision is not mine alone. I need to consult with Konoha before giving a final answer."
Hanzō, already aware of the Sannin's prudence, allowed himself a slight smile upon realizing his offer had made an impression on Tsunade. He knew he wouldn't get an immediate response, but this exchange was just the first step toward something much bigger.
"Of course, Tsunade-sama," Hanzō replied, his tone respectful yet firm. "Take all the time you need to discuss it with Konoha. In the meantime, you will always be welcome in Amegakure."
After this brief negotiation, Tsunade and her entourage decided to stay in the Rain Village for a few more days. Instead of immediately returning to Konoha, they thought it would be wise to learn more about the village and its people. Moreover, Tsunade knew that her presence in Amegakure could further strengthen diplomatic relations with Kaito, who had proven to be an influential figure in the village.
Kaito, in turn, had no hesitation in welcoming them into his home. Despite the political tensions still looming over the village, Tsunade's and little Kushina's presence in his house represented a unique opportunity to strengthen ties with Konoha. He also took the chance to offer them a more personal perspective on Amegakure, stepping away from politics and showing them the daily life of his village, which had been transformed thanks to technology.
Kushina, having grown up in the strictly regulated and constantly monitored village of Konoha, was thrilled at the idea of exploring Amegakure. Despite her young age, the eight-year-old girl felt an increasing curiosity about everything around her. In Konoha, her life was often limited by strict rules and constant adult supervision, but in Amegakure, the atmosphere was different. Everything seemed freer, and the nature surrounding Kaito's house was entirely new to her.
With boundless energy, Kushina began exploring her surroundings, running through the nearby fields and marveling at the technologies Kaito had installed in his home. The hydraulic devices, advanced water control techniques, and precision machinery fascinated the girl, who bombarded Kaito with endless questions. Seeing her enthusiasm, Kaito couldn't help but feel proud of her interest in technology and engineering. Though still so young, Kushina had a sharp mind and an insatiable curiosity that reminded him of himself in his youth.
What surprised Kaito the most was how much he enjoyed Kushina's company. While Tsunade remained serious and calculating, the young Uzumaki exuded an infectious energy. Kaito spent a great deal of time teaching Kushina the basic principles of machines, tools, and hydraulics. She absorbed everything with impressive speed, and Kaito didn't hesitate to share some of his technological secrets with her, feeling that he had found a young apprentice who might one day continue his legacy.
But it wasn't just Kushina who enjoyed her time in Amegakure. Tsunade, though more reserved than the little girl, also felt at ease in Kaito's home. The Sannin, accustomed to the pressures and politics of Konoha, found in the tranquility of the Rain Village a much-needed respite. The nature surrounding Kaito's house, combined with the relaxed atmosphere, allowed her to disconnect from the constant tension of life in the Hidden Leaf Village.
What Tsunade hadn't expected, however, was to find something that truly captivated her: games. In the ninja world, opportunities for fun or relaxation were scarce. Most shinobi spent their time training or on missions, and leisure moments were rare and often solitary. But Kaito, ever the innovator, had developed a series of new games for his own enjoyment and that of his close friends—games that Tsunade, though she had never considered before, soon found fascinating.
Poker, chess, dominoes, blackjack… Kaito had introduced a variety of card and board games that were not only entertaining but also challenged the mind. Tsunade, always a natural strategist, was immediately drawn to these new pastimes. During the evenings, she, Kaito, and little Kushina would sit around an improvised table, enjoying small bets and friendly competitions.
At first, Tsunade remained somewhat reserved, but she soon realized how fun these games were. In fact, she became so hooked that she started challenging Kaito, making small wagers with him. It was a way to release the accumulated stress she had carried for so long. Initially, they played just for fun, but soon, it became something more—a chance to unwind and enjoy a moment without pressure, something Tsunade hadn't experienced in a long time.
Kushina also relished these moments. Though she was still young, she showed a surprising talent for chess, something that left Tsunade amazed. Their matches were lively and filled with laughter, and time seemed to fly as they played.
What started as a few days of rest turned into ten days of pure enjoyment. Kaito had achieved something that almost no one had before: making Tsunade completely forget about her worries, even if just for a few days. Unintentionally, Kaito had created an environment where the Sannin could truly relax like never before. This further strengthened their bond, as Tsunade discovered in Kaito not just a brilliant strategist and inventor but also someone capable of offering the kind of respite that all shinobi desperately needed.
For Kushina, those days in Amegakure were a true adventure. She experienced a freedom she had never known in Konoha and felt a deep connection with Kaito, who patiently introduced her to his world of machines and games. As the days passed, the little girl grew more and more fond of her host, and their bond became increasingly close.
For Tsunade, those ten days were a blessing. Though she had originally stayed in Amegakure to discuss Hanzō's offer, she soon realized just how much she needed that break. The games, Kaito's company, and simply being away from Konoha's pressures made her see life from a different perspective. Her relationship with Kaito became stronger and deeper, and she started feeling more comfortable in his presence.
By the end of those ten days, Tsunade knew she had to return to Konoha to face the political decisions awaiting her. However, she also knew that, in some way, Amegakure and Kaito had earned a place in her heart.