Adopted by Tsunade [159-160] (Patreon)

Chapter 159: The Runaway Princess of the Land of Snow

The Grand Metropolis Cinema of the Land of Fire.

Natsume looked around with curiosity.

It was somewhat similar to the cinemas of his previous life, but more retro.

Of course, he wasn't here to watch a movie—he was here to find Koyuki Kazahana.

More precisely, the film queen Yukie Fujikaze.

"Sorry, sir. The back is the actors' lounge. Outsiders aren't allowed in."

Two middle-aged men each extended a hand to block Natsume.

"I'm a fan of Ms. Yukie Fujikaze."

Natsume pulled out a movie poster. "I'd like to ask for her autograph."

"Do you have an appointment? If not, please leave."

The man on the left spoke. "Ms. Yukie Fujikaze doesn't meet fans."

"I have an appointment."

Natsume took out a stack of ten-thousand-ryō bills.

"Sir, this is against the rules."

The two men's eyes lit up immediately, but then their faces tightened with reluctance.

"Alright then."

Natsume, seeing their great reluctance, put the money away—and gave each one a punch.

He hadn't intended to make a scene.

But since he'd run into guards this upright, he figured they deserved respect.

He opened the door and entered the back.

"Who are you?"

A bearded middle-aged man stepped in front of him, puzzled. "How did they let you in?"

"Before you ask a guest's name, shouldn't you introduce yourself first?"

Natsume had already guessed who he was.

"Sandayū Asama, Yukie Fujikaze's manager."

Sandayū Asama frowned. "You don't even know me. What business do you have here?"

"I have something to discuss."

Natsume smiled. "You'll be interested—it's about the Land of Snow."

"What Land of Snow? We don't know what you're talking about. You've got the wrong people."

Asama's face changed, but he quickly waved it off.

"I can help you restore your country."

Natsume continued.

"Restore the country?"

Asama froze for a few seconds.

If it were only the Land of Snow, he might not be sure.

But since the words "restore the country" were spoken, their identities were obviously exposed.

"I don't want to restore the country."

A voice came from behind.

Natsume turned and saw a young girl in a luxurious kimono.

It must have been her film costume—the makeup was bold, with red eye shadow and red lips.

She looked older than she really was—gave Natsume the impression of around twenty.

The original story never stated her exact age, but she should only be a few years older than Naruto.

At this point, about fourteen or fifteen.

"Why don't you want to restore your country?"

Natsume asked. "Don't you want to avenge your father?"

Koyuki trembled. She slowly closed her eyes as past memories resurfaced.

"Restore the country? With what?"

She looked scornful. "With you? As if you could defeat Dotō Kazahana!"

"Oh, so you're a coward."

Natsume recalled the original plot. "So much for the 'murder of one's father'—that's all it amounts to?"

Koyuki had been in hiding for years because of the trauma she suffered. She lacked a sense of safety.

Strictly speaking, that wasn't cowardice—it was normal.

But for negotiations, you start by putting on pressure.

"Shut up!"

Koyuki's composure as a princess shattered. "What do you know? That's a good way to get killed!"

"You're not wrong."

Natsume paused. "But if you do want revenge, why not use your money from acting to hire ninja from the Five Great Villages?"

"I…I…"

Koyuki was at a loss.

It was indeed a good idea.

But she didn't want to use it.

In her view, it was still too dangerous.

She had no reason to risk her life for the Land of Snow.

"You don't even know how strong Dotō Kazahana is!"

Koyuki snapped. "Leave now. I don't want to see you again!"

"Princess."

Sandayū Asama quickly tried to persuade her. "I think we should give it a try."

Although he was her manager, he was also once a minister of the Land of Snow.

After finding Koyuki, he had always wanted her to return, but she refused.

Now that Natsume had come, the thought rose again.

"Get out!"

Koyuki completely lost her reason.

Natsume didn't get angry.

He thought of Uchiha Mikoto.

The two were similar in a way.

Fear of power.

Of course, Koyuki had another trait—she valued her own life highly.

In the original, if not for Naruto's talk-no-jutsu, she wouldn't have returned to the Land of Snow.

And his performance had impressed Koyuki and won her favor.

You had to admit—Naruto's charm with women was maxed in the movie.

"Is Dotō that strong?"

Natsume took a few steps forward. "Is that all your definition of a strong person amounts to?"

"W-what are you doing?"

Koyuki, who had been furious a moment ago, retreated in fear.

"Sir, please don't do anything rash."

Asama blocked Natsume. "I'll protect the princess with my life."

"How much are you paid a month? What life are you playing with?"

Natsume recalled how, in the original, he led forty-nine old, weak, and infirm loyalists of the previous daimyo in a charge.

Result: zero enemies killed, forty-nine killed on their side.

You'd be flagged as intentional feeding.

"Don't move."

Natsume spoke calmly.

An invisible pressure surged from him.

The faces of the two in front turned pale; terror filled their eyes.

Natsume raised his hand.

"D-d-don't kill me…"

Koyuki's teeth chattered; her voice trembled.

She was an ordinary person who feared death, and Natsume's killing aura terrified her.

"I want you to understand Dotō is nothing."

Natsume pressed a hand on her shoulder, about to use Flying Thunder God—but suddenly paused.

In her extreme fear, a warmth flowed.

Her face flushed pale with shame and fear.

Natsume casually knocked Asama unconscious to preserve a shred of her dignity.

"Sorry, you misunderstood. I'm not going to kill you."

He sighed. "Go change your clothes."

Koyuki bolted into the room.

She felt like dying.

But her survival instinct won over social death.

Besides, it was only seen by one person.

…

Koyuki reappeared, changed.

She took a deep breath. "Can you really defeat Dotō?"

What just happened had made it clear Natsume wasn't ordinary.

She couldn't resist him.

But compared to Dotō, she still felt her uncle was more terrifying.

"Seeing is believing."

Natsume extended his hand. "Come with me."

Koyuki stared at him, trying to find fear or panic.

There was none.

She bit her lip. With no other options, she reached out and took his hand.

Flying Thunder God activated.

Koyuki felt a lurch. When she opened her eyes again, she was stunned.

The Land of Snow was beneath her feet.

What was happening?
A miracle?
From the Land of Fire to the Land of Snow in an instant.

Koyuki was shocked and bewildered.

But she quickly realized they were on a massive aerial fortress.

What was this?
In seconds, her worldview was remade.

"Natsume."

Uchiha Shisui sensed their arrival and appeared.

"How's the situation?"

Natsume asked.

"Yesterday they launched an attack; we took them down. No movement since. But this morning they began massing forces—likely preparing for a decisive battle."

"Let's go down."

Natsume grabbed Koyuki's shoulder. "You come see as well."

Before she could answer, they were already before the royal palace of Snow City.

Dotō Kazahana, standing in the square, froze—slow on the uptake.

When he saw Koyuki, he was ecstatic.

"Hahaha! Koyuki! Uncle has missed you so much!"

"You said you could defeat him."

Koyuki shuddered and hid behind Natsume.

"Defeat me? With these two runts?"

Dotō sneered. "Kill them. Capture Koyuki alive."

Nadare Rōga, Fubuki Kakuyoku, and Mizore Fuyukuma moved. Fubuki Kakuyoku struck first, her chakra armor venting air as she took to the sky.

Ice Release: Swallow Snow!
She weaved signs; countless snowflakes became throwing blades that swept toward Natsume and Shisui.

The Snow ninja's Ice Release wasn't a kekkei genkai.

It was more like a secret technique enabled by the environment.

Change the locale and they might not be able to use it at all.

It was different from Haku's Ice Release.

Shisui drew a short blade and swept forward, knocking all the blades aside.

"Ah!"

Koyuki screamed reflexively.

Mizore Fuyukuma lunged with massive hands to grab her.

Natsume pulled Koyuki into his arms, clenched his right fist, and punched straight through both hands, striking the center of the chakra armor.

"Idiot!"

Mizore grinned hideously.

The strongest part of the armor was the center of the chest.

But then, a crack sounded.

He looked down involuntarily, the grin vanishing in disbelief.

His body flew backward.

Koyuki's eyes widened.

In her childhood memories, their Snow ninja guardians had been helpless before enemies in chakra armor.

No ninjutsu could penetrate its defense.

But Natsume, with a simple punch, casually killed one—like a dream.

Dotō's face changed drastically.

Even he couldn't shatter the armor so easily.

He stopped watching and formed seals.

Ice Release: Black Dragon Blizzard!
A giant black dragon of chakra roared forth.

Koyuki's face filled with despair.

Her thin body wasn't enough to fill a tooth gap for the dragon.

She shouldn't have come.

Natsume clapped both hands, done playing.

Wood Release Secret Technique: Nativity of a World of Trees!

Under his control, the entire square's floor heaved as giant trees burst into growth.

In moments, it became a small grove.

Koyuki was dumbfounded.

The living trees easily bound dozens of Snow ninja, leaving them totally immobile.

Including the "invincible" Dotō.

Shisui sheathed his blade, a bit regretful—no chance to show off again.

"Princess, how would you like to deal with them?"

Natsume turned, lifted a hand gracefully. "Let's sit and talk."

Koyuki came to, at a loss for words.

"Then let's kill the four ringleaders first."

Natsume smiled and snapped his fingers.

Sharp branches pierced chakra armor as if it were nothing, turning Dotō, Nadare Rōga, Fubuki Kakuyoku, and Mizore Fuyukuma into pincushions.

Blood sprayed.

Koyuki trembled, her face pale.

She wasn't unfamiliar with blood, so she didn't overreact.

But to see enemies she'd fled for years die so easily felt absurd.

"Do you believe me now?"

Natsume asked, seeing her dazed.

Koyuki nodded reflexively.

It felt like a dream, but everything around her was real.

"Then let's discuss cooperation."

Natsume crooked his finger; two huge trees bent down their trunks into makeshift benches. "Let's sit."

Koyuki sat; the cool touch told her she wasn't dreaming.

She took a breath. "Cooperation? With your strength, you don't need me."

"I don't. But the Land of Snow needs a daimyo."

Natsume explained. "You be daimyo; we provide protection—like a one-country-one-village model."

"No problem."

Koyuki agreed without hesitation.

"So straightforward?"

Natsume was surprised. "Aren't you afraid we'll deceive you?"

"Even if you do, what can I do?"

Koyuki understood her situation.

Behave, and she could live—and be daimyo.

Disobey, and her uncle's corpse told her her own end.

"You're smart. I believe you'll govern well."

Natsume jumped down and looked at the bound Snow ninja. "Kneel and greet your new daimyo and you live."

He clapped. The trees withdrew, leaving a ruined square as proof.

"Greetings, Daimyo!"

The Snow ninja fell over themselves to kneel before Koyuki.

They had little loyalty to Dotō.

They obeyed because they couldn't beat him.

Changing allegiance was easy.

Koyuki accepted their fealty, still dazed.

Minutes ago, she was a successful actress.

In a blink, she was daimyo of the Land of Snow and had avenged her father.

Thinking of her father, she looked at the crystal necklace at her chest—Hexagonal Crystal.

"This is the key to my father's treasure."

Koyuki took off the necklace and held it out to Natsume.

It would be discovered anyway.

Better to bring it up as a show of sincerity.

"Do you know what it is?"

Natsume accepted the still-warm crystal.

"No."

Koyuki shook her head. "My father never told me."

"Then let's go see."

Natsume knew what it was, but it wasn't his place to explain.

It was a father's gift to his daughter.

She should see it with her own eyes.

"You want me to go?"

Koyuki was surprised.

Dotō had usurped power for this treasure—it must be incredibly valuable.

Yet Natsume looked utterly unconcerned; she couldn't fathom it.

"You lead the way."

"Okay."

Koyuki led him. Soon, they arrived.

Natsume set the crystal into the environmental modification unit—the heater.

In an instant, ice and snow melted; spring arrived.

Black technology indeed.

Natsume was impressed.

Koyuki stared blankly at the projection that appeared, tears flowing.

It was her father, Sosetsu Kazahana.

He built the heater to change the Land of Snow's climate—to fulfill Koyuki's wish.

Sadly, Dotō's coup halted the research; it was unfinished.

"Here."

Natsume put the crystal back in Koyuki's hand. "For your father."

Time to work, girl.

Devote your limited life to the unlimited construction of the Land of Snow—fulfill your father's dream.

Koyuki put the necklace back on, glanced at Natsume, then quickly lowered her head. "Thank you."

"You're welcome."

Natsume smiled. "Mutual benefit."

"Will… you stay in the Land of Snow?"

Koyuki's delicate face flushed.

"I told you—Snow will be under our protection."

Natsume turned. "Let's go."

Koyuki's eyes grew dreamy. She hurried to follow.

To a teenage girl, Natsume's appearance was that of a hero—saving her.

Feelings formed naturally.

Natsume wasn't thinking that far.

He just needed a figurehead.

They returned to the palace.

Shisui and the others were already handling cleanup.

Natsume brought Sandayū Asama over.

When he learned everything, Asama wept and immediately rallied the old retainers to prepare Koyuki's enthronement.

[Because of your actions, the fates of Koyuki Kazahana, Dotō Kazahana, Sandayū Asama, and others have changed. You gained 190 Fate Points.]

Not bad.

A pleasant bonus.

More than Natsume expected.

After killing Dotō, everything else fell into place.

Koyuki was the rightful heir, and far less brutal than her uncle. In three days, she had true control of the Land of Snow.

Chapter 160: The Hokage Takes Maternity Leave

Natsume looked around, marveling at how much wealthier daimyō were.

The palace was golden and glittering, the smell of money everywhere.

By contrast, Konoha was quite plain.

Partly because it was poor; partly because ninja didn't care for such things.

Aside from a few, most ninja lived like ascetics—disciplined and frugal.

After all, there was the "ninja creed."

Of course, the strong could ignore it.

Like the Legendary Sannin.

"Lord Natsume."

Sandayū Asama raised a hand to stop him. "Please wait a moment. Her Highness is changing."

Natsume was about to speak when Koyuki's voice came from inside.

"Santayū, let him in."

"Please."

Asama stepped aside.

Though Natsume had knocked him out earlier, restoring the country made it worth it.

Even death would have been worth it.

That's loyalty.

Natsume pushed the door and entered.

Sunlight filtered through silk curtains onto a downy quilt, radiant and luxurious.

His gaze fell on the massive bed in the center.

Seven or eight people could lie on it.

Luxurious.

Natsume had the urge to roll around on it. Must be comfortable.

"Lord Natsume."

Koyuki turned, greeted him, then continued her makeup.

For some reason, there were no maids.

Natsume watched—her makeup skills were quite good.

Likely thanks to being an actress.

The only downside: in Snow's freezing climate, even beauties were bundled up.

Natsume had no other intent—just felt it lacked a bit of flourish.

"Lord Natsume."

Koyuki set down the lipstick, stood, bowed slightly. "Sorry to keep you waiting."

"It's fine."

Natsume waved. "What did you want me for?"

"Well… I'd like you to attend the succession ceremony with me."

Koyuki blushed, her red lips like a shy girl's.

"I was going to attend anyway."

Natsume was puzzled.

"On stage."

Koyuki took a breath, serious. "The Heaven's Mandate will be Snow's ninja village from now on. I think the people should know they're under protection."

In truth, it was personal.

With Natsume by her side, she felt safe.

Unlike the original story's Koyuki, she hadn't had a psychological turning point. She was confused and anxious.

"But I don't want to expose the Heaven's Mandate."

Natsume shook his head. "They don't need to know that much."

Land of Snow wasn't exactly high-profile, but it was still a nation.

A change in daimyo would spread.

Then the Heaven's Mandate might become common knowledge.

No need for that yet.

Natsume preferred to grow in secret and surprise everyone quietly later.

Koyuki panicked, sweat beading on her forehead.

Her aura plummeted.

Fortunately, as an actress, she improvised. "Then I'd like to appoint you Grand Minister of Snow."

Natsume blinked—unexpected.

The Grand Minister was the head of all officials.

In Land of Snow, second only to the daimyo.

High and mighty.

Having an outsider serve was… irregular.

"Well?"

Koyuki watched him anxiously, afraid he'd refuse.

Natsume smiled at her candid, endearing demeanor.

In a way, Grand Minister fit.

He planned to reform Snow anyway.

Instead of issuing orders through Koyuki, he could step in himself.

"Alright."

Natsume nodded. "But I may be busy and not always in Snow."

"As long as you agree."

Koyuki's delicate face bloomed into a smile, ignoring the latter half.

Natsume smiled.

He could see she liked him.

Not bad.

It also helped the relationship between the Land Snow and Heaven's Mandate.

He had no designs on her—for now.

Maybe when she grew up.

"There's something else. My identity is special."

Natsume thought a moment. "Publicly, call me Takashi, not my real name, Natsume."

Koyuki's eyes lit up.

Sharing his real name felt like great trust.

"I understand."

She was delighted.

"Your Highness, it's time!"

Asama's excited voice came from outside. "Everyone's waiting!"

He had waited years for this moment—couldn't help himself.

"Then… please witness me."

Koyuki smiled like a girl.

A second later, she put on the dignity of a daimyo.

What acting.

She walked to the door, looked back, waited for him to follow, then continued.

They left the palace for the square.

It was packed.

When they saw Koyuki, cheers erupted.

Natsume stood behind her, now with an ordinary face.

As was customary, Koyuki gave a speech.

No need to listen—one could guess the content.

Ten minutes later, Koyuki raised her hand. "Lord Takashi, please come up."

Natsume paused.

Was there something for him—announced at the ceremony?

It seemed he had a good place in her heart.

He took a few steps forward to stand beside her.

"Everyone, this is Lord Takashi, who will serve as Grand Minister."

Koyuki boldly held his hand, her face hot, breath warm. "We owe the restoration to Lord Takashi. With his help, Snow will be better than ever."

After a pause, the crowd cheered again.

Their worldview was simple.

Whoever benefited them was a good person.

Only Asama stood dumbfounded.

I was here first!
How did this happen?

He'd thought he'd become Grand Minister, given his years as her manager and his contribution.

Who knew he'd be cut off?

By the last person he expected—Natsume.

What ninja would enter government service?

After the appointment, the ceremony wasn't over.

Next came a nationwide day of celebration.

Like the New Year.

They'd suffered under Dotō for too long—it was time to celebrate.

In the palace, Koyuki's first court session as daimyo began.

Natsume stood in front.

Behind were Snow's officials.

They were uneasy.

They were all Dotō's old ministers.

"Lord Takashi."

Koyuki's voice was calm. "Please investigate them."

Natsume nodded but didn't move.

Shisui flashed into view.

He stood before Koyuki. "Please look at me."

Mangekyō Sharingan activated.

"You—start. Tell us what you did to help Dotō."

Shisui pointed.

A novel court session began.

Asama shivered.

Terrifying.
I want out!

People had secrets and selfishness.

Him included.

Who would have thought of this?

He clenched his fist over his heart.

He swore to be loyal, fair, open, with no concealment, no deceit, no betrayal.

Koyuki listened and gave orders.

By noon, half the officials were cut.

It was worth it.

Keeping parasites wouldn't make the tree grow.

Koyuki understood.

Fortunately, the Mangekyō could also identify loyalists.

If you could withstand the genjutsu, you were generally solid.

In one day, the civil and military officials were reappointed.

Koyuki's pressure eased.

She was just a girl and inexperienced. Becoming daimyo had been accidental.

With such capable ministers, life was easier.

The Land of Snow entered its most enlightened era.

Natsume didn't intervene much.

Reform couldn't happen overnight.

And Snow was poor.

The immediate task was to raise the economy.

There were advantages—technology.

If you want to get rich, first build roads.

Snow already had trains; now they promoted them, laying tracks to every corner.

They also used the previous daimyo's geothermal devices to build ice-free ports.

By sea lanes, they would trade with the outside world.

Time for the Sunny Sea Shipping Company to step in.

Their old trade—export Snow's unique resources to Water, Fire, etc., for profit.

Conversely, import common resources cheaply.

Natsume gave the orders and returned to Konoha.

For Wave and Snow, he gave guidance; execution was left to Uzumaki Hinaee and others.

Soon, it was New Year.

…

In the original timeline, this was when the Uchiha massacre would occur.

But thanks to Natsume, it had happened earlier.

The next few years were calm.

Until Naruto graduated and the plot truly began.

With the New Year, Konoha was lively.

Natsume appeared in Kirigakure.

It had been four months since last time.

Today, five sea lanes officially opened.

Had to pick an auspicious day.

As the nominal person in charge, he had to go—and check on the Mizukage.

"You're here."

Mei Terumi looked up, voice steady.

But she was annoyed.

Last time Natsume left, he'd promised to bring her a new dress.

She had waited four months—expectant and anxious—no sign of him.

Left her in limbo.

Now seeing him, she felt both pleased and angry.

But as Mizukage, she couldn't blow up. She had to hold it in.

Natsume glanced at her and smiled. "Mizukage, are you angry?"

"I'm not."

Mei wouldn't admit it. "I'm quite happy, actually."

"Because you saw me?"

Natsume sat on the desk, looking at her budding chest.

"Hey, what are you looking at?"

Mei crossed her arms, channeling Mizukage presence.

"Nothing worth looking at."

Natsume curled his lip.

Especially compared to Tsunade—not generous at all.

"What did you say?!"

Mei reacted, removing her hands. "Am I not worth looking at? I have plenty of suitors."

Natsume thought: Don't think I don't know you'll be a desperate bachelorette in a few years.

Mei wasn't bad.

But Kirigakure lacked good men.

Only Chōjūrō was presentable.

His looks and personality weren't her type.

From the original, her tastes were more Kakashi or Sasuke.

Handsome with presence.

"So who will you choose?"

Natsume smiled.

Mei's heart fluttered.

Choose who?

She didn't want to discuss it in front of Natsume.

"I'm not thinking about that now."

"Strike while the iron's hot."

Natsume looked down from above. "Or you might not get married."

"Impossible!"

Mei lost composure again, blurting it out.

If she could beat him, she'd teach him a lesson.

"Let's make a bet."

Natsume raised one finger. "If you win, I wipe two and a half years off. If you lose, it doubles."

"I…"

Mei hesitated, looked up. "Why would I bet? My marriage has nothing to do with you."

Her heart pounded after she spoke.

"True."

Natsume shrugged. "No bet. Let's talk business."

Mei quietly sighed in relief but felt oddly disappointed.

She picked up the documents, about to speak, when a dress appeared from nowhere.

"For you."

Natsume grinned. "If you wear this and dance, no one will be able to look away."

Mei blinked.

Then felt a bit smug.

You just said I wasn't worth looking at—now you compliment me.

Two-faced man.

She glanced at the dress—a formal evening gown.

Compared to her blue dress, it was far superior.

She kind of liked it.

"Try it now?"

"…"

Mei hesitated but didn't disappoint him.

She took the dress and quickly left.

Soon, she came back.

Natsume looked up, eyes flashing with amazement.

Her reddish-brown hair was coiled elegantly, like a noble lady.

A flawless face, moist red lips.

A tall figure—the low-cut, off-shoulder gown was perfect.

The tight fit highlighted her pear-shaped curves flawlessly.

"Standing next to you puts me under pressure."

Natsume laughed, noticing the height added by her heels.

"Because you're still a younger boy."

Mei smiled, regaining her edge.

Age made her taller than him. It felt good.

A faint sense of dominance.

Natsume hopped off the desk and approached.

Mei reflexively wanted to retreat and cross her arms, but she remembered his comment about "not worth looking at" and got annoyed.

She straightened a bit, nervous. "What do you want?"

Natsume hadn't expected such defiance; his eyes traced the curve.

"I apologize."

"Good."

Mei hummed softly, eyes narrowing with pleasure.

Natsume felt she was like a cat.

Shame he couldn't pet her.

"Business now?"

Mei, unused to heels, returned to her Mizukage seat.

Natsume admired her graceful figure; his gaze rested on her smooth, fair, exposed back.

It would be a waste not to do some cupping therapy.

He sat back on the desk—prime view.

"…"

Mei's red lips parted. "Could you sit over there?"

"Why?"

Natsume asked, eyes tracing her curves.

"Desks aren't for sitting."

Mei was reaching her limit; her face grew unnatural.

"Desks have many uses."

He thought of Tsunade, chuckled, and moved to the sofa opposite.

"The opening ceremony is this afternoon. If you want to attend, I'll save you a seat."

Mei relaxed—less pressure.

She was still a young woman, not as bold as she would be.

"You go."

Natsume thought. "With the Mizukage there, I can't steal the spotlight."

"Smart."

Mei crossed her arms, satisfied. "I'll keep an eye on it for you."

"Thanks."

Natsume was frank.

She owed money; she couldn't run.

To repay, she had to keep the sea routes profitable.

"The chefs you wanted have arrived."

Mei added. "Cook what you like."

"Thanks."

Natsume nodded. "I'll treat you to a meal."

"I look forward to it."

Mei was polite.

It was still fish—how good could it be?

She was more curious about the deeper purpose.

"Where are the chefs? Take me."

Natsume wanted to launch his high-end cuisine.

If taste and presentation were good, he'd advertise to the Water Daimyo.

With some hype, it'd spread among nobles—profit galore.

Mei stood, then realized her attire wasn't ideal. "Let Ao take you."

Soon, Natsume met seven chefs.

Each famous in the Water Country.

They agreed for the money.

Natsume explained cuisine from his previous life; the rest depended on their creativity.

…

Land of Wave Daimyo's mansion.

Shisui and Izumi were in Snow.

Only Uchiha Mikoto and others remained.

Natsume felt short-handed.

But it couldn't be helped.

In a few years, with Konoha, there'd be fewer worries.

"What you wanted."

Kabuto tossed two scrolls when Natsume arrived.

Shinnō's two medical forbidden techniques—Body Revival and Body Regeneration.

"Thanks."

Natsume pocketed them and went to Uzumaki Hinae's office.

He knocked.

"Come in."

Hinae didn't look up.

When she heard his steps, she smiled warmly.

"Still busy?"

Natsume felt a bit guilty. "Leaving you with so much."

"It's fine."

Hinae shook her head. "I want to do it."

Natsume stood before her.

Before he could speak, she'd already yielded her seat, but instead of stepping aside, she turned her back to him, her movements deliberate and inviting. Natsume sat down in the chair, leaning back as she hiked up her skirt and reached down to unzip his pants, deftly taking out his hardening cock with a soft, eager touch. She then parted her panties sideways with her other hand, exposing herself just enough before positioning above him—facing away, her legs straddling his lap. With a soft, trembling exhale, she lowered herself slowly, guiding him inside her with a firm grip, the warmth enveloping him as she settled fully onto his lap.

"Thanks."

Natsume leaned back, relaxing—warm and comfortable, now intimately connected with her rhythmic movements.

"This… is what I should do."

Hinae exhaled, voice trembling slightly as she began to rock her hips subtly, adjusting to the fullness. "Did… you need something today?"

"Form a seabed mining team."

Natsume held her hips to keep her from slipping, his fingers digging in as she moved. "To mine sea resources."

"What… resources?"

Hinae's eyes turned hazy, her breaths coming in short gasps as she ground against him.

"Undersea minerals."

He explained, his voice steady despite the building tension. "Hire Water-style ninja through the Mizukage to mine seabed veins."

Minerals had countless uses.

While the shinobi world couldn't use all of them, Snow and Sky (Land of Sky) tech could use many.

Seabed resources were unclaimed—take them.

As for Kirigakure trying to seize them—Mei wouldn't dare.

Strength—and debt.

He wouldn't be heartless; he'd give her a cut.

She was providing manpower.

Hinae bit her lip and nodded, cheeks flushed, her pace quickening slightly as she rode him in the chair.

"One more thing."

Natsume asked, seeing her alluring look. "Wave should have criminals awaiting execution, right?"

"Yes!"

Hinae answered firmly, her voice breaking into a moan as she pressed down harder.

"Preferably ninja."

Natsume added.

He planned to pose as Shinnō, perform some tricks, and hand the forbidden techniques to Tsunade.

"Mm!"

Hinae's voice was heavy again, her body trembling as she continued the intimate motion.

Natsume stopped talking and closed his eyes.

He was tired.

Time to enjoy this.

…

Three hours later, refreshed, Natsume left Wave.

Back in Konoha, he called Yamanaka Inoichi.

The head of the Analysis Division.

"Lord Natsume."

Inoichi greeted calmly.

Though calling a junior "lord" felt odd, Natsume was the Hokage's aide.

Higher rank.

And his daughter Ino told him Natsume helped her become Tsunade's disciple.

So the honorific wasn't hard to swallow.

"Uncle Inoichi, if I asked you to do something without telling my teacher, would you?"

Natsume smiled.

Giving Tsunade the forbidden techniques was good for Konoha—not betrayal.

But hard to explain—so he needed a cover.

He didn't need to explain to Inoichi—big shots had secrets.

"...?"

Inoichi looked troubled.

His mind raced.

Was this Hokage aide going to become another Danzo?

They shouldn't help. But offending the aide would be bad.

Natsume wasn't Danzo—he was young, likely to climb higher.

Offending the future Hokage?

"What is it, exactly?"

Inoichi hesitated, then asked.

Smart man.

You didn't get this far by blind loyalty.

Though there were exceptions.

"Have you heard of Shinnō?"

"A little."

Inoichi nodded. "I've heard he's a skilled traveling doctor."

"A cover. He was the leader of the old Sky Ninja—stealing ninjutsu from great villages."

Natsume lied smoothly. "A Hyūga in the Police Force discovered him and captured him. We obtained two excellent medical techniques to give to my teacher."

A Hyūga in the police was real.

Kosuke Maruboshi was upright—hard to sway.

But Hiashi was easy to talk to; he could nudge a Hyūga in the Police Force.

"So what do you need from me?"

Inoichi was confused.

You've arranged everything. What's my role?

"These two techniques were obtained from Shinnō's corpse by you."

Natsume said. "But I can't give you Shinnō's body—just a normal ninja's."

Inoichi understood the plan.

The only question—were the techniques genuine?

Ninjutsu was like a precise machine—missing parts caused errors.

If Natsume wanted to harm Tsunade, he could tamper with them.

Inoichi couldn't be sure—and didn't dare agree outright.

"Uncle Inoichi, my teacher is the best medical ninja. Do you think she wouldn't notice problems?"

Natsume guessed his thoughts. "It's just hard to explain the source. I need your help."

Inoichi thought, then nodded.

As Tsunade's pupil, if he wanted to harm her, there were easier ways.

Why involve others?

"Thanks."

Natsume hinted. "Ino is my junior. I'll look after her."

Inoichi's composed face showed a hint of joy.

With the aide's care, Ino's future would be smooth.

They fleshed out details.

…

The next day.

Hokage's office.

Tsunade was reviewing documents.

Knock, knock.

Inoichi entered.

"Inoichi, what's up?"

Tsunade stopped.

"Hokage-sama, please see this."

Inoichi handed over Body Revival and Body Regeneration.

Tsunade's face was calm as she opened them—then turned shocked.

Even Orochimaru coveted these techniques in the original.

As a medical ninja, she understood their value even better.

"Where did you get these?"

Tsunade asked seriously.

Inoichi relayed the agreed cover story.

"Shinnō—I've heard of him. I didn't expect him to be the Sky Ninja leader."

Tsunade sighed. "A pity. If not for different paths, he'd be top-tier."

These two forbidden techniques weren't much worse than Yin Seal.

And she could learn them.

A huge boost for Konoha.

"You did well."

Tsunade smiled. "I'll have the secretariat reward you."

They had stopped Shinnō's theft and acquired two valuable techniques.

They deserved commendation.

Someone less conscientious might have pocketed them—for personal use or sale—more lucrative than handing them in.

Inoichi didn't refuse.

Refusing would look odd.

He thanked her and left.

Half an hour later, Natsume arrived.

"Sis, why do you look so happy?"

He set down papers.

"Look at this."

Tsunade handed him the scrolls.

"Looks impressive."

Natsume skimmed them.

"More than that."

Tsunade smiled. "These two can solve the survival problem of medical ninja—huge help."

Natsume blinked. He hadn't thought that far.

As the one who created the medical system and insisted every team have a medic, she saw the implications.

They weren't easy to master, but once done, survivability soared.

On the battlefield, you killed medics first.

"I see."

Natsume feigned an epiphany. "With these effects, could they reduce the side effects of the Eight Gates?"

Tsunade froze, then fell into thought.

Moments later, her eyes lit. "It's possible. I'll have to test."

"I'm smart, right?"

Natsume circled and sat on her lap—human chair.

"Yes, yes, you're the smartest."

Tsunade hugged him, then remembered something. "Let's have a child in a few years."

"Huh?"

Natsume was surprised. "Why wait?"

Given the situation, he wouldn't be surprised if she got pregnant tomorrow.

"I'm the Hokage."

Tsunade shifted so he was more comfortable. "How can I be Hokage while pregnant?"

"Oh—so I become Hokage in a few years, then you take maternity leave."

Natsume got it, but had a concern. "Can you control that?"

"I'm a medical ninja, and I have the Yin Seal."

Tsunade flicked his forehead. "Are you underestimating me?"

"Sorry."

He apologized instantly.

"You're thinking dirty again."

Tsunade frowned, pushed him away, switched to business mode. "I have work. Go."

"…"

Natsume hesitated, then left.

Business came first.

His goal had been achieved.

With these two techniques plus Eight Gates, Tsunade would be an offensive-defensive medical juggernaut.

Others like Kabuto would benefit too. A great deal.

[Because of your actions, the fates of Tsunade, Yakushi Kabuto, Shizune, and Yamanaka Ino have changed. You gained 37 Fate Points.]

A nice bonus.

Natsume returned to his office.

Knock, knock.

"Come in."

He sat up straight, putting on the proper bearing of a Hokage's aide.

"Natsume-kun."

Yamanaka Ino entered—same tight top, fair toned midriff and navel exposed.

Too young now—but in terms of waists, she'd be perfect in time.

"Natsume-kun, are you free at noon? I want to treat you to lunch."

Ino was nervous, expectant—then added, "My dad asked me to."

That part was true.

After the Shinnō matter, Inoichi had cooperated with Natsume and received a friendly promise.

He thought his daughter should express thanks.

"Sure."

Natsume could never refuse a pretty girl.

"What would you like to eat?"

Ino smiled. "I can make anything."

"Are we eating at your place?"

Natsume smiled. "If so, anything is fine."

"I…I…"

Ino flushed, hesitating.

"What's wrong?"

Natsume didn't get it.

In broad daylight—what could you be thinking?

"If you don't mind, I can cook."

Ino took a deep breath and blurted it out.

Then she lowered her head, as if awaiting judgment.

"Sounds good."

Natsume didn't refuse.

After Tsunade's cooking, he feared nothing.

Too young, girl.

Ino's eyes lit. "I'll do my best!"

What kind of answer was that?
Natsume poked fun inwardly, but smiled. "I'm looking forward to it."

Ino hurried off, asked Shizune for leave, and ran home to prepare.

…

Time passed.

Natsume arrived at the Yamanaka compound.

People greeted him along the way.

Finally, he stopped at Ino's door.

He knocked.

Soon, Ino opened the door in a white apron.

"Natsume-kun, please come in."

She held a spatula, clearly busy.

"Thanks."

Natsume changed shoes and entered. "Your parents aren't home?"

"Dad's in the Hokage building; mom's at the flower shop."

Ino headed to the kitchen. "Make yourself comfortable."

"Okay. Call me if you need help."

He was a bit worried.

She was young.

If something happened, that would be bad.

Fortunately, nothing did.

Ino safely finished lunch.

Only three dishes.

Tempura, marinated spinach, and miso soup.

"Not bad."

Natsume picked up a shrimp, chewed, and praised. "Ino, you are a good cook."

"Thank you!"

Ino relaxed, smiling sweetly.

Very girlish.

She popped a shrimp into her mouth—her cheeks puffed adorably like a hamster.

Noticing his gaze, she said casually, "If Natsume-kun likes it, you can ask me anytime."

Her heart pounded; her free hand twirled her golden hair.

"Okay."

Natsume smiled. "If I'm hungry, I'll come over. Don't turn me away."

"I won't!"

Ino waved her hand. "Anytime you come, I'll cook."

She realized how that sounded—face turning red.

It was practically a confession.

Inviting a boy to come by anytime implied intimacy.

"Much appreciated."

Natsume didn't push it.

…

Afternoon.

They went to the Hokage building together.

"Natsume-kun, I'm going to learn medical ninjutsu from Sister Shizune."

Ino was in high spirits, waved, and bounced into the Hokage Guard office.

Her mood was infectious. Natsume smiled.

No wonder admiring beauties lengthens your life.

…

…

…

Time passed.

Two and a half years later.

Natsume spent most of his time doing missions.

To build credentials.

He'd been made Hokage's aide by special appointment. To become Hokage, he needed to win hearts.

In peace, grinding missions was slow.

But he was strong—he could take the toughest ones and gain fame quickly.

Among informed ninja, he was known.

Water Release plus Sage Mode, fifth Hokage's disciple, Konoha's new-generation leader.

With all that, it was hard not to be known.

In Konoha, he was a household name.

Hokage's office.

"Sis, mission completed."

Natsume appeared via Flying Thunder God.

That was part of his efficiency.

After a year of "training," he told Tsunade he'd mastered it.

So he could use it freely.

"Come here."

Tsunade beckoned.

Natsume, puzzled, walked over.

"Congratulations."

Tsunade took his hand and placed it on her belly. "From today, you're going to be a dad."

Natsume froze, then was ecstatic.

Pregnant.

He hugged Tsunade, kissed her several times, babbling, "Thank you! Thank you!"

For him, in two lives, this was a first.

"I should thank you."

Tsunade's lips curved; her eyes filled with love.

She patted his back, resting her face on his chest.

After losing family, she thought she'd fall into darkness—but someone pulled her back.

And gave her new life.

Her smile grew, happiness blooming bright.

PS: Damn, Uchiha Shirou should see this, bro already hit jackpot in just hundred chapters.