War Begins
After Rong Yi left the Star Shadow, he did not immediately seek out Shirō. Instead, he entered a room where an old man sat cross-legged, eyes closed, in quiet meditation.
Seeing Rong Yi, the elder opened his eyes and asked indifferently, "Who has come?"
"It's a man named Tobi. His Ninjutsu is… unusual. It resists conventional analysis, but his strength is undoubtedly extraordinary. He defeated four of our shinobi in an instant," Rong Yi reported.
"His goal?" the elder asked.
"To trade the 'Star' with us."
"And what did Star Shadow say?"
"Star Shadow Lord asked me to invite Tobi and, at the same time, prepare personnel and arrangements."
The elder exhaled softly. "Alas, some things never change. Rong Yi, follows Star Shadow's orders. But also, see that the younger generation of the Village is safely sent out of harm's way."
"Yes, Elder. I'll take my leave now."
"Mm. Go."
Rong Yi returned to the entrance and addressed Shirō. "Tobi, please, this way. Star Shadow Lord is waiting for you." He bowed slightly, signaling Shirō to follow.
"Thank you for your trouble," Shirō replied lightly, following him.
Along the way, Shirō noted several hidden sentries, though he made no comment. He twirled the ring encased in jade on his finger—a small preparation for what was to come.
Rong Yi eventually led Shirō to a spacious chamber and gestured for him to enter.
"Lord, Mr. Tobi has arrived," he announced.
"Send him in," Star Shadow replied.
Shirō stepped forward, bowing slightly. "No trouble at all," he said as he entered the room.
Inside were Star Shadow and three other elders. One was the elder Rong Yi had just met, the most composed among them, known for his keen judgment.
Shirō could tell this at a glance. His mastery of the legendary Face Reading Art allowed him to discern character and intent with precision.
The other three elders, by contrast, could barely hide their disdain for him.
"Akatsuki's Jade Woman, Tobi, wishes to conduct a transaction with your Village. Please forgive any offense," Shirō said, bowing slightly again.
He subtly revealed the jade-encased ring, the symbol of his organization's authority. Combined with his uniform, it was clear he was backed by a mature and organized force.
Shirō had hoped this would smooth negotiations—but he had underestimated the shortsightedness of the Star Hidden Village.
"What does Tobi wish to trade?" Star Shadow asked.
"I wish to trade the 'Star' with your Village."
The elders' faces fell. Star Shadow shook his head. "Our Village possesses no 'Star.' Perhaps you are mistaken. We have nothing to offer you. I apologize."
Shirō's eyes flicked toward the composed elder, silently gauging his reaction. Then, calmly, he stated his terms:
"I offer fifty million ryo," Shirō paused, then continued, "several C-rank Ninjutsu of each elemental nature, and three B-rank Ninjutsu."
He knew the offer was tempting. Money alone was insufficient to obtain the "Star," but these Ninjutsu were exactly what the Star Hidden Village lacked.
The village's sole formidable technique was Peacock Art, powerful but difficult to master and with serious drawbacks. The Ninjutsu Shirō offered could significantly bolster the Village's combat capability—enough to tempt even a cautious leader.
Before the composed elder could respond, Star Shadow made a decision. In an instant, several massive chakra tails erupted from his back, shattering the room in a swirl of dust.
Shirō leapt back nimbly, unharmed. He took in the Star Ninja surrounding him, the tail-shaped chakra looming behind them, and asked coldly:
"Star Shadow Lord, what is the meaning of this? I came in good faith. Is this how your Village treats guests?"
"Hmph! Trespassing into the Star Hidden Village is already a grave crime. We are merely apprehending a thief," Star Shadow said as he formed hand signs. The chakra tails rose higher, responding to his will.
"Tsk. Your strength may be limited, but your tongue is quick. Will you not reconsider? We approach sincerely."
"Heh. There is nothing to discuss. You trespassed alone; now face the consequences!" The other two elders also formed hand signs, their expressions resolute.
"Peacock Art!"
Rong Yi frowned as he observed the escalating battle. "Third Elder, what should we do?"
The composed elder sighed. "Things have come this far. Engage him, repel him, and then we'll persuade Star Shadow. Have you done what I instructed?"
"I've arranged everything. But even if we win, must we still compromise?" Rong Yi asked.
"Alas, you will understand in time. Caution is necessary."
The Third Elder, despite his rank, was older than Star Shadow and the others. His early injuries had limited his combat ability, which was why he held a lesser official position. His counsel was often ignored, but his experience was invaluable.
He activated Peacock Art, the chakra of the technique spreading across the room.
"Tsk, are you planning to seize it by force? A waste of power," Shirō muttered under his helmet, his eyes sharpening. His stance changed; battle intent radiated from him.
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