Hokage: I Confronted the Five Kage Before the System Arrived

Chapter 117: Recognizing the Times

The persistent clanging of metal and the frustrated voice of Seimei echoed through the shop, repeating, "I am the ultimate tool! I was meant to conquer the ninja world." Kujaku, who had grown used to this routine, ignored the former master she once deeply respected. Instead, she apologized to Sasuke, explaining that Seimei's mind wasn't quite right, and asked for Sasuke's understanding.

Once a revered figure, the image of Seimei had been shattered for the Four Celestial Symbols Men. They had naively believed that Seimei's revival would allow him to sweep through the ninja world. However, after witnessing his powerlessness before Hagoromo Gengetsu, they realized how childish their thoughts were. Their reverence for him plummeted.

Now prisoners in the Lockfront Village, Kujaku and the others had no thoughts of rebellion against Gengetsu, whom they regarded as a deity. They accepted their situation, making tools as they did back in Takumi Village. The workload was lighter, they had time off, and they weren't constantly threatened by the Five Great Shinobi Villages.

As Sasuke was presented with a newly crafted ninja sword, Kujaku explained, "This sword is modeled after the famous Kusanagi Sword. With Seimei's masterful craftsmanship, it surpasses the quality of the original. Additionally, we've infused it with Thunder Ore, allowing it to harness lightning just like the Sword of Raijin."

Sasuke unsheathed the sword, feeling the cold, sharp energy emanating from it. As he infused it with lightning chakra, the blade crackled with energy, proving its superior quality. Satisfied, Sasuke thanked them and left, accompanied by the continuing cries of Seimei, "I am the ultimate tool!"

On his way to the training ground, Sasuke passed by a new medical clinic. Inside, Shinno, the clinic's head, was enthusiastically sharing his medical knowledge with the recently returned Souke.

"Recognizing the times is crucial! That's what I've learned in these fifty years!" Shinno exclaimed. "Don't worry, Souke, I'll teach you everything I know, just like I would for Hagoromo-sama!"

Hearing this, Sasuke continued on his way, focused on familiarizing himself with the new sword.

Meanwhile, Hanare, a woman with light footsteps, stopped in front of a modern, three-story research building. "Clan Leader, the latest intelligence from the ninja world has been compiled," she reported.

The sealed doors opened, and Hanare made her way to the laboratory. Unlike the cold, dark labs one might expect, the laboratory was bright, clean, and futuristic, reflecting Gengetsu's preference for a positive working environment. This new facility stood in stark contrast to the dim, underground labs like Orochimaru's or even Konoha's research facilities, which lacked aesthetic appeal.

Gengetsu, believing in the importance of a good work environment for innovation, had established this lab upon returning to Lockfront Village. The village's isolation ensured security, with sealing barriers protecting the facility from unwanted visitors.

Entering the lab, Hanare noticed several White Zetsu specimens suspended in nutrient tanks, fewer than before. She approached Gengetsu, who was studying data on a computer, and handed over the intelligence report. "Clan Leader, here's the intelligence summary for this month."

"I see," Gengetsu responded, taking the report and beginning to read.