127. Strategy, Strength, and the Future of Kirigakure (2)

127. Strategy, Strength, and the Future of Kirigakure (2)

Elder Genji listened intently to Hikari's words, his stern expression giving way slightly to show his contemplative mood.

After a moment, he responded, his voice mixing caution with a measure of respect that had not been there before.

"You raise a valid point, young Hyuga...", Genji started, his authoritative tone softened by a dose of pragmatism,

"Your skill and determination are clear, and the fall of our Mizukage at your hands speaks volumes. You're capable of wreaking havoc next if you so choose.",

He paused, his eyes narrowing slightly as he leaned slightly forward, emphasizing his next words with careful deliberation,

"However, you can't trick someone with my level of experience. I watched your battle with the Mizukage closely.",

"You're running on gas, despite your efforts to conceal it. You might not even have a quarter of your former vitality left.",

"Even if your fighting style relies mostly on using the same external energy source as our fallen Mizukage also did, you saw his end, right? It still needs to be controlled and parried with your own body and internal chakra reserves first to be employed in the first place...",

He then paused, weighing his next words carefully, "However, your acknowledgment of the potential destruction that continued fight could bring to Kirigakure didn't fall on deaf ears.",

"I am tasked with the safety and continuity of our village, and I must consider all paths that lead to peace,

"Although, your own cream of the crop of the Hyuga clan elites would also probably perish here if this continued, so don't make it seem like this is a one-sided thing...",

Genji's demeanor softened slightly as he continued, "If you are suggesting another kind of a compromise, then I am willing to entertain this discussion slightly at least.",

"Kirigakure has suffered enough, and if there is a way to end this with diplomacy rather than further bloodshed, it is worth exploring...",

This response marked a significant turn in the encounter, moving it from the brink of further conflict to at least the possibility of a peaceful resolution.

The thought that Hikari had managed to intercept and keep them was startling, suggesting a level of audacity and strategic depth that Genji had not anticipated.

This revelation forced Genji to reassess his understanding of the political landscape within Konoha. He cursed the inadequacy of Kirigakure's intelligence, which had failed to grasp the extent of the internal divisions plaguing their rival village.

As Genji processed this information, he realized the strategic restraint Hikari had shown. The fact that Hikari hadn't unleashed the beasts immediately upon their arrival suggested that his intentions extended beyond mere destruction.

Hikari was seeking leverage, aiming to bring Kirigakure into some form of alliance or get them into the 'orbit' that served his broader goals.

This insight shifted Genji's perspective, highlighting the necessity of navigating this negotiation with great care.

Furthermore, the knowledge that Hikari possessed not only the Tailed Beasts but also all seven of Kirigakure's prized swords now compounded the gravity of the situation.

It became clear to Genji that Hikari held most of the cards, and if Kirigakure was to salvage anything from this confrontation, concessions were inevitable.

With a heavy heart and a mind burdened by the weight of his village's future, Genji acknowledged internally that he would need to offer more than he had planned.

His goal now was to secure the best possible outcome for Kirigakure under the current circumstances.

"Very well, Hikari Hyuga...", Genji said, his voice steady despite the turmoil within, "It seems you've outmaneuvered us at every turn. Let's discuss your terms for this... alliance.",

"What exactly are you proposing, and how do you envision Kirigakure's role in your plans...?",

His question, while conceding the negotiation's direction to Hikari, also sought to clarify the specifics of what Hikari expected in return for peace and cooperation.

Even the Kirigakure shinobi nearby couldn't hide their reaction to Hikari's bold declaration.

They flinched, their previous aggression melting into a more defensive stance, a subtle but clear sign of their growing apprehension.

The weight of Hikari's threat had clearly shaken them, introducing a layer of fear and uncertainty into their demeanor.