Chapter 26: A Private Audience
The sheer, effortless display of power from Uchiha Raizen wiped the condescension clean from Kamizuru Budō's face. A shinobi who could unleash such devastating techniques without hand seals was not to be underestimated, regardless of his apparent chakra level.
"My deepest apologies, Elder of the Uchiha," Budō said, his tone shifting to one of wary respect. "Please, forgive my earlier discourtesy. Come, let us speak inside."
"Thank you for your hospitality," Uchiha Raizen replied evenly, accepting the invitation without false modesty.
They were led to the main hall of the Kamizuru compound. The atmosphere was tense, thick with the unspoken threat of the insects hidden in the shadows.
"To what do we owe this visit... ah, forgive me, I did not catch your name," Budō began, feigning a casualness he didn't feel.
"I am Uchiha Raizen. These are my sworn brothers, and this is my fiancée," Uchiha Raizen stated, introducing his party with a calm that brooked no argument.
"Elder Raizen," Budō continued, "what, precisely, is the purpose of your visit?" He already knew the answer, but protocol demanded the question be asked.
"Our purpose should be clear, Patriarch Budō," Uchiha Raizen said, his voice direct and uncompromising. "The Uchiha may not be the sole power in this world, but in this land, we are among the elite. Years of war have taught us one undeniable truth: power dictates reality. I am here to consolidate that power for the Uchiha. The question is, will your clan become a part of our strength?"
The bluntness of the threat was a calculated shock. Several Kamizuru clansmen stirred, their anger palpable. A faint, collective buzzing filled the air as countless insects began to emerge from hidden crevices in the walls and floor.
"Patriarch Budō," Uchiha Raizen's voice cut through the buzzing, cold and sharp. "I strongly advise you to have your clansmen recall their... pets. I have no desire to damage assets that could one day belong to the Uchiha."
As the insects had appeared, his system had pinged incessantly. Dozens of new pickup orbs for various insect-controlling ninjutsu had materialized around the room. Their fear and readiness to fight was generating a bounty. He had spent the last eleven days meticulously stockpiling techniques from his friends. He now had over forty ninjutsu stored, from multiple Grand Fireballs to numerous Phoenix Sage Fire techniques. He was a walking arsenal, perfectly suited to counter a swarm with a storm of fire.
"Second Elder," Budō commanded, his voice firm, "take everyone and leave. I wish to speak with the Uchiha Elder alone."
"But, Patriarch—!"
"Now!" Budō's voice brooked no argument.
The Second Elder bowed stiffly. "As you command. Everyone, out!"
Seeing the Kamizuru clear the room, Uchiha Raizen gave a slight nod to his own team. "Wait for me outside." It was a gesture of reciprocated respect and a practical move, allowing Uchiha Ryoken and Uchiha Natsume to keep watch.
Soon, the hall was empty save for the two leaders. The private audience had begun.