305. Samui's Interrogation

"Why are you standing so far away? I'm not going to eat you."

Hanekawa waved his hand and said, "Come here, let's sit and talk."

Mei bit her red lips, hesitated for a few seconds, then stepped forward and sat beside him.

"The other villages sent representatives, but you came personally. Is there something you wanted to discuss?"

Hanekawa reached out, took her hand, and asked.

"I..."

Mei hesitated, unable to speak.

She had prepared what to say before coming, but now that the moment had arrived, she couldn’t bring herself to say it—or perhaps she didn’t know how to say it.

"So you just wanted to see me?"

Hanekawa played with her small hand, teasingly asking.

"No."

Mei glared at him, thought for a moment, and said, "I came to find out your stance on Kirigakure in the future."

Hanekawa felt like he had become some kind of supervillain.

The other villages, like Kumogakure, had attended the Hokage inauguration ceremony for the same reason.

"My stance? How about Kirigakure directly joining us?"

Hanekawa tested the waters.

"That’s impossible!"

Mei refused without hesitation.

As the Mizukage, if she simply joined Konoha, she would become a traitor to Kirigakure, forever condemned in history.

Moreover, as a shinobi who grew up in Kirigakure, she would never accept becoming Konoha’s subordinate.

Even if Konoha’s Hokage was someone she loved.

"But Kirigakure can’t defeat Konoha."

Hanekawa blinked and said.

"You... Are you really trying to start a war?"

Mei raised her head and stared at him.

"You should understand the law of the jungle."

Hanekawa said calmly.

"..."

Mei’s heart trembled, and she fell silent.

She didn’t want to be Hanekawa’s enemy.

But if Konoha started a war, what would she and Kirigakure do?

Even if they fought with all their might, they couldn’t win.

Would they have to fight to the death?

"Kirigakure will not join Konoha."

Mei pulled her hand back and emphasized.

"Then let’s try a different kind of war, how about that?"

Hanekawa took her hand again.

"What do you mean?"

Mei was slightly stunned.

"What is the purpose of war? At its core, it’s money."

Hanekawa smiled and said, "Let’s compete to see who can make more money."

"But the only way shinobi make money is through missions."

Mei didn’t understand at first.

"I remember you’ve done a lot since becoming Mizukage."

Hanekawa rubbed the back of her hand and said, "For example, ending the Bloody Mist era and re-establishing ties with other villages and nations."

Mei tilted her head.

She didn’t understand why he was bringing this up.

"The ultimate goal of all these actions is to revive Kirigakure—in other words, to make money."

Hanekawa summarized, "Shinobi can make money in more ways than just missions. There’s also business."

"That’s not what shinobi do."

Mei paused and said.

"The shinobi world has entered a new era."

Hanekawa shook his head. "Traditional shinobi will eventually become a thing of the past."

"..."

Mei felt lost.

"Want to give it a try?"

Hanekawa pinched her cheek and said, "If you want to revive Kirigakure, money is essential—and business brings the most money."

"I..."

Mei’s face showed hesitation.

"Whether you agree or not, Konoha has already decided to do this."

Hanekawa added.

"I accept."

Mei gritted her teeth and said.

For Kirigakure, this was the only choice.

In fact, having this option was already Hanekawa’s concession.

"Thank you."

After a moment of silence, Mei added.

"You should be happy."

Hanekawa reached out and pulled her into his arms.

"Happy about what?"

Mei pressed against his chest, listening to his heartbeat.

"If you win, Kirigakure will prosper like never before."

Hanekawa said with a straight face, spouting nonsense. "If you lose, Kirigakure joins Konoha and becomes even stronger."

"What kind of twisted logic is that?"

Mei was both amused and exasperated, lifting her stocking-clad foot to nudge his leg.

Hanekawa immediately grabbed her foot and started playing with it.

"You... You pervert!"

Mei’s body stiffened, her toes curling instinctively, but she didn’t pull her foot back.

"The Mizukage seems to be enjoying it."

Hanekawa teased.

"I am not!"

Mei, flustered, pushed him away.

"Here, take this."

Hanekawa casually handed her a scroll.

"What is it?"

Mei looked at the scroll in confusion.

"I figured you wouldn’t know much about business, so I’ll teach you."

Hanekawa said nonchalantly. "Consider it a fair competition."

Mei felt a warmth in her heart and took the scroll.

After hesitating for a few seconds, she unrolled it.

A moment later, her face showed astonishment.

What Hanekawa had written was completely unheard of to her.

In short, it could be summarized in four words: ocean development.

"Aren’t you afraid you’ll lose?"

Mei closed the scroll and asked in confusion.

"I won’t."

Hanekawa shook his head. "It’s hard for a student to surpass their teacher."

Though he hadn’t held back, Kirigakure had a fatal weakness—the Land of Water’s daimyo.

Once the daimyo realized ocean development could bring profit, they would inevitably interfere.

Besides, ocean development wasn’t easy.

Even though Kirigakure excelled in water-style jutsu, the depths of the ocean were inhospitable even for jōnin.

They lacked the necessary tools for deep-sea extraction.

"That’s not necessarily true!"

Mei snorted confidently. "I’ll definitely win!"

"If the Mizukage wins, will you spare my life?"

Hanekawa joked.

Mei froze for a moment before suddenly turning away, her face flushing.

If that day ever came, she would keep Hanekawa by her side forever.

"Why are you blushing? Are you thinking about—"

Before Hanekawa could finish, Mei interrupted.

"I wasn’t thinking anything!"

Mei stubbornly said. "We’re done talking. The Hokage should leave now!"

"How cold."

Hanekawa stood up and sighed.

Mei’s heart skipped a beat.

Looking at Hanekawa, she realized she didn’t actually want him to go.

Suddenly, Mei stepped forward, stood on her tiptoes, and kissed him.

A few seconds later, she pulled back, her cheeks flushed.

"See you next time."

Mei lowered her head slightly and whispered.

"The Mizukage looks very beautiful when shy."

Hanekawa patted her head before vanishing on the spot.

"Beautiful...?"

Mei couldn’t help but smile at the thought.

---

Hokage’s Office

As soon as Hanekawa sat down, he saw Kaguya Ōtsutsuki.

Given her abilities, it was no surprise she could follow his Flying Thunder God Technique.

"Who’s prettier? Mei or me?"

Kaguya suddenly asked.

"You are."

Hanekawa paused before answering smoothly.

Though, if he had to choose, it was a tough call.

From Hanekawa’s aesthetic perspective, he slightly preferred Kaguya.

Kaguya, never considering that he might lie, nodded in satisfaction.

"I have a mission for you."

Hanekawa walked up to her with a smile. "Go find Tsukihime and tell Uchiha Shisui to come see me."

"Mm."

Kaguya disappeared without a trace.

Tsukihime was now the commander of the ANBU.

But Hanekawa had Kaguya find her mainly so the mother and daughter could meet and chat.

Of course, another reason was that Samui wasn’t here—she was with her best friend, Mabui.

Before long, a knock sounded at the door.

"Lord Hokage."

Uchiha Shisui entered, his tone respectful.

Hanekawa smiled faintly.

Both Itachi and Shisui were fiercely loyal to Konoha.

If he were the Uchiha clan head, this would be a headache.

But as the Hokage, it was different.

These two could become his sharpest blades.

"Shisui, have you heard of the Bounty Exchange?"

Hanekawa got straight to the point.

"I have."

Shisui nodded. "It’s an underground black market that provides missions for rogue ninja."

"Right."

Hanekawa said solemnly. "I’ve recently learned that many Konoha officials are on their bounty list."

"Does the Hokage want me to find out who placed the bounties?"

Shisui asked proactively.

"That would only treat the symptoms, not the root cause."

Hanekawa said slowly. "The Bounty Exchange threatens Konoha’s peace. It must be destroyed."

Shisui's heart shook.

After a moment’s thought, he realized Hanekawa was right.

For the first time, he felt excitement.

Finally, something he could do!

And it was for Konoha’s sake—exactly what he had always wanted.

"Your Sharingan makes you ideal for intelligence gathering."

Hanekawa instructed. "Your mission is to uncover the masterminds behind the Bounty Exchange."

"Yes!"

Shisui answered firmly.

"If you need more manpower, borrow from the Konoha Military Police Force. Just say it’s my order."

Hanekawa added.

Shisui's eyes flickered.

This effectively handed the task to the Military Police.

If they succeeded, they would earn rewards and prestige.

For the Uchiha clan, this was a good thing.

Shisui knew Fugaku had long wanted to improve the clan’s reputation—

All to smooth the path for Itachi or Sasuke to become Hokage.

"No need to rush."

Hanekawa thought for a moment before reminding him. "The Bounty Exchange operates across nations. They’re widespread. Try to uncover all of them."

He didn’t just want the masterminds in the Land of Fire.

"Understood!"

Shisui bowed slightly before leaving.

The door closed.

Hanekawa stood and stretched.

Having met Mei, it was time to see Mabui.

Flying Thunder God Technique!

Hanekawa appeared at Kumogakure’s temporary lodgings in Konoha.

The moment he arrived, nearby Kumo-nin noticed him.

But upon recognizing him, their faces instinctively twisted with fear.

During the Third Shinobi War, Hanekawa had left them with unforgettable nightmares.

"Lord Hokage."

Mabui, hearing the commotion outside, quickly opened the door.

"Lord Hokage."

Samui followed closely, greeting him.

"I need to talk to you."

Hanekawa stepped inside.

"Of course, Lord Hokage. What is it?"

Mabui tensed, forcing herself to stay calm.

"Technically, I’m still a Kumogakure shinobi."

Hanekawa smiled at Mabui. "You’ve asked me to return several times, and I always refused. I feel a bit guilty."

"You mean...?"

Mabui froze, sensing something ominous.

"I’ve decided to visit Kumogakure with you."

Hanekawa stated plainly.

"What?"

Mabui was stunned.

If this had been a few years ago, she would’ve welcomed him gladly.

But now? He was the Hokage—the strongest shinobi alive.

What was his goal in going to Kumogakure?

Just a visit? Or something else?

"Is there a problem?"

Hanekawa raised an eyebrow. "Does Kumogakure not welcome me?"

"The Hokage’s presence would be an honor for Kumogakure."

Mabui replied immediately. "I’ll send word ahead to prepare a proper welcome."

"No need for such fanfare."

Hanekawa glanced at Samui. "That’s all. I’ll see you tomorrow."

Once he left, Mabui’s legs gave out, and she collapsed onto the couch.

"Mabui..."

Samui called out worriedly.

Honestly, she hadn’t expected Hanekawa to visit Kumogakure either.

Knowing him, it wouldn’t be just a casual trip.

But his real motive? She couldn’t guess.

Samui pondered.

The only way was to 'extract' the information from him.

"I’m fine."

Mabui took a deep breath, rubbing her temples. "This is complicated."

Normally, a Hokage entering Kumogakure alone would be suicide.

Like the Third Raikage, who died fighting ten thousand Iwa-nin.

But Hanekawa was different.

With Wood Release, numbers meant nothing.

And with the Flying Thunder God, he could escape anytime.

A man like him in Kumogakure was like a wolf among sheep—anything could happen.

"For now, we must inform the Raikage and order everyone to stand down."

Mabui thought it over and said.

Her plan was simple.

Don’t give Hanekawa any excuse to act.

That way, Kumogakure could at least claim the moral high ground.

But if Hanekawa forced their hand, they’d have no choice but to fight to the death.

"I’ll try to sound him out."

Samui said firmly.

"Be careful."

Mabui warned gravely.

"I know."

Samui nodded.

Her body had to be careful.

Getting information out of Hanekawa wouldn’t be easy.

But for Kumogakure’s sake, she had to make sacrifices.

---

Hokage’s Office

Outside the door, Hanekawa saw Kaguya again.

"Someone’s here for you."

Kaguya said flatly. "He has weak Byakugan."

"Thanks."

Hanekawa patted her head.

He already knew who it was.

Entering the office, he found Hyūga Hizashi waiting.

"Lord Hokage."

Hizashi stepped forward respectfully.

"What is it?"

Hanekawa sat at his desk and asked.

"It’s about the Mining Division."

Hizashi hesitated. "Konoha has no mineral resources, but outside the village, they belong to the Land of Fire."

"I know your concern."

Hanekawa smiled faintly.

Though he didn’t care about the Land of Fire, other shinobi weren’t as bold.

Especially in economic matters, which had always been the daimyo’s domain.

For Konoha to interfere would break the rules.

The Land of Fire would surely grow suspicious.

But this fit Hanekawa’s plans perfectly.

He wanted the daimyo to provoke him.

Especially once Konoha started making serious money—the nobles wouldn’t stay idle.

"The Land of Fire’s rule is: whoever discovers a mine can develop it, as long as they share profits with the daimyo."

Hanekawa said calmly. "If we follow the rules, the Land of Fire won’t object."

Now Hizashi understood why Hanekawa had assigned the Hyūga to the Mining Division.

Their Byakugan could easily detect underground minerals.

Still, Hizashi found it strange.

To Hanekawa, shinobi were more than just tools for missions.

Hizashi—and the Hyūga as a whole—were traditional shinobi.

Hanekawa’s methods seemed almost heretical to them.

But he was the Hokage now, stronger than ever.

Hizashi couldn’t help but wonder what Konoha’s future would look like.

The door closed, leaving the office quiet again.

Hanekawa picked up a document from his desk.

Reading it, he raised an eyebrow in surprise.

It was from Orochimaru.

The report stated that he had successfully applied White Zetsu cells to medical treatments.

Specifically, limb regeneration.

For many shinobi, this was incredible news.

As long as they weren’t killed instantly, they could now be saved.

Hanekawa pondered.

This could be delegated to Rin Nohara.

Thanks to his influence, she had become head of the Medical Division.

Though no one said it outright, her authority was somewhat lacking.

Having her oversee limb regeneration could bolster her standing.

Just then, Hanekawa sensed Samui outside the door.

She looked hesitant, pacing back and forth.

"Come in."

Hanekawa didn’t need to guess why she was here.

Samui took a deep breath and entered.

Hanekawa was slightly surprised.

She wasn’t wearing her ANBU uniform but had changed into her usual outfit—a low-cut, mesh-lined gray top.

His gaze instinctively dropped to her pale skin.

Samui walked up to him.

As if by accident, she tugged her collar downward.

More skin came into view.

"Very beautiful."

Hanekawa admired the exposed area and complimented.

"Thank you."

Samui replied coolly.

"What did you want to discuss?"

Hanekawa traced a finger along her skin.

Instead of answering, Samui rose onto her toes and pressed her lips to his.

Hanekawa’s mouth was sealed as she launched a fierce assault.

Watching her determined expression, he mused that being on the defensive was a rare experience.

"Hanekawa."

Samui pulled back, licking her moistened lips. "Why are you going to Kumogakure?"

"What?"

Hanekawa teased. "Are you interrogating me?"

"N-No! That’s not what I meant!"

Samui panicked, shaking her head.

"If this is an interrogation, you’ll need to try harder."

Hanekawa moved to the couch and sat down, watching her.

Samui paused, then understood.

After a moment’s thought, she hiked up her black miniskirt, revealing her long legs.

Hanekawa was shocked to see she wore nothing underneath.

She had come prepared.

Noticing his heated gaze, Samui relaxed slightly.

Her interrogation tactics were working.

Samui reached behind her back and undid the clasp.

A nearly silent snap echoed.

Her top loosened, pale skin spilling free.

Smooth shoulders emerged as the fabric caught at her waist.

Hanekawa’s eyelids twitched.

The sight was dangerously enticing.

"Hanekawa."

Samui spoke expressionlessly.

Despite her disheveled state, her demeanor remained icy.

She knew exactly what Hanekawa liked.

And she was right.

The contrast only heightened his desire.

"What’s next?"

Hanekawa stared fixedly at her alluring figure.

Samui didn’t answer. Instead, she parted her lips.

Her red lips quivered slightly, a soft pink tongue pressed against her mouth, teeth gleaming white.

With each breath, a faint mist escaped.

It was February, the tail end of winter.

Konoha wasn’t warm, carrying a lingering chill.

But Hanekawa knew her mouth was warm.

And reality proved him right.

"Samui."

Hanekawa leaned back against the couch. "Are you loyal to Kumogakure or the Fourth Raikage?"

Kneeling before him, Samui looked up at the question.

Her cheeks puffed slightly as she considered.

"Kumogakure."

Samui managed to reply before running out of air, forced to breathe through her nose.

"What if I became the Fifth Raikage?"

Hanekawa savored her warmth and asked.

"..."

Samui’s eyes widened.

Seconds later, they rolled back slightly.

"Every Kumo-nin has the right to compete for Raikage."

Hanekawa didn’t let her speak, smiling. "I qualify too."

Samui’s throat moved, her gaze growing distant.

She remembered their earlier deal—Mabui had let him keep his Kumo-nin status.

Was this why?

"You seem excited."

Hanekawa felt her inner heat and grinned.

Samui was too stunned to close her mouth.

But she quickly realized something.

If Hanekawa became Raikage, it might actually benefit her.

No longer torn between Kumogakure and Konoha.

But Mabui and the others would never allow it.

What should she do?

Unconsciously, Samui tilted her slightly flushed neck upward.

___

Worth 2 chapters