The daimyo had been probing Hiruzen from the start, assessing whether the young Third Hokage could be easily controlled. In the reception hall earlier, Hiruzen had let certain matters slide, leading the daimyo to believe he was the type that easily influenced—someone who could be nudged into reducing Konoha's demands. But now, Hiruzen had upended the game entirely.
Everyone had played their cards, but this Hokage? He had decided to reset the board and deal with a fresh hand. Was such an approach even allowed? With no better option, the daimyo played his next move—the emotional card.
"This is simply a misunderstanding. The Land of Fire and Konoha share a bond unlike any other," the daimyo said with a smile, smoothly steering the conversation. "Look at our little Tsunade—her grandfather was the First Hokage, her granduncle was the Second Hokage, and her sensei is you, the Third Hokage. If that isn't a family, then what is it? A little financial support between a family is nothing. There's no need to trouble yourself by returning the funds. I'll just classify it as an additional allocation by separating it from the usual budget. That way, we could avoid any unnecessary complications."
It was a calculated attempt to smooth things over, wrapping the financial issue in the warmth of shared history but Hiruzen was ready.
"Konoha's relationship with you the Daimyo, is indeed unique," Hiruzen acknowledged, his tone measured yet firm. "My allegiance, however, is to you alone—not to the noble factions." His words carried weight, carefully balancing deference with conviction. "For generations, the Hokage and the Daimyo have upheld a partnership built on mutual trust and the shared goal of protecting the Fire Country. The security measures we have implemented—including our newly established checkpoints—are designed to safeguard Fire Country's trade routes and curb illicit activities."
"Yet, certain influential figures have chosen to perceive these measures not as a means of protection, but rather as a hindrance to their own interests. Rather than acting in the spirit of national unity, they resorted to placing a bounty on me—an act that cannot be interpreted as anything but hostile. Such actions do not reflect an alliance but rather a challenge to the stability and order we have long maintained."
Hiruzen leaned forward slightly, his words slow and deliberate.
"Certain noble factions have become a little more than the parasites, placing personal gain above the stability of the nation—and even your authority as the Daimyo," Hiruzen stated calmly, his words carrying a quiet intensity. "Such individuals do not deserve to serve the Land of Fire as they only serve themselves."
"It may be in your best interest to reconsider the influence they wield within your court. After all, a ruler's strength lies in the loyalty of those who serve him, not in the greed of those who seek to exploit him. Konoha remains as your steadfast ally, as it has always been. Should you decide to act, you only need to give the word."
The daimyo felt a flicker of genuine emotion at Hiruzen's declaration—only loyal to the daimyo, disregarding the other nobles. If he had the power, he would have purged those corrupt families long ago. Still, eliminating the noble clans was not so simple as it seems. Unlike shinobi villages, noble houses operated under different rules. One could suppress them, but outright extermination? That would invite rebellion from the aristocracy as a whole.
The daimyo let out a slow breath and shook his head. "I appreciate your concern, Hokage, but the nobility operates under different customs than the hidden villages. While your methods are direct, ours require… finesse. Rest assured, I will handle the matter using my own way."
Still, he understood the value of maintaining this renewed bond with Konoha. Hiruzen had proven that he was not drifting away from the daimyo's influence but instead reinforcing their alliance. That was worth something.
The daimyo's tone remained effortless as he shifted the discussion. "Speaking of Konoha's needs, I understand the village has undergone a significant reorganization and is managing certain financial pressures. As a gesture of support, allow me to provide additional assistance. I will see to it that another one billion ryo is allocated to Konoha—not as a part of the standard budget, but as a special fund."
Hiruzen smiled internally. Simply reaffirming Konoha's loyalty had earned him another billion ryo. Some negotiations were truly effortless.
"Thank you, Daimyo. Konoha is deeply grateful for your generosity," Hiruzen said, offering a polite bow.
The daimyo, for his part, felt reassured. He had worried that the bounty incident might drive a wedge between them, but Hiruzen's unwavering stance dispelled those fears. As long as Konoha remained firmly aligned with him, the nobles would tread carefully, knowing there were consequences for overstepping.
Wanting to steer the conversation to more practical matters, the daimyo swiftly changed topics. "Hokage, I heard about the ten caravan permits for trade between Konoha and Sunagakure. Tell me more about this arrangement."
Hiruzen relaxed slightly. "Daimyo, you are my elder—you may simply call me Sarutobi or Hiruzen."
The daimyo smiled, "Very well, Sarutobi. Now, about those trade permits…"
Hiruzen nodded and began his explanation.
"During my recent visit to Sunagakure, their leadership expressed interest in deepening their relationship with Konoha. With the upcoming Five Kage Summit, they seek to secure advantageous agreements. As a gesture of goodwill, we initiated a commercial partnership—this caravan permit system marks the first step. The ten selected caravans will be granted exclusive privileges within the Wind Country."
The daimyo rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "What sort of privileges?"
"Substantial ones," Hiruzen responded. "These caravans will be exempted from checkpoint fees when entering the Wind Country, and Sand Village patrols will facilitate their passage during inspections. If they encounter difficulties, they will have access to assistance from Sunagakure's forces. Moreover, they will be granted direct entry into Sand Village itself, enabling them to rest within its borders and trade for exclusive goods typically unavailable to outsiders."
The daimyo's eyes narrowed slightly. "How does this differ from the merchants who already travel to Wind Country?"
"The difference is substantial," Hiruzen explained. "Ordinary merchants must navigate Wind Country's border regulations, pay checkpoint fees, and face varying treatment from local authorities. Our ten caravans, however, will operate under an official agreement between Konoha and Sunagakure. They will enjoy the exclusive advantages, making them the preferred choice for trade in that region."
The daimyo considered this carefully. Such an arrangement would grant Konoha-aligned merchants a strategic edge in the region. Sunagakure's desire to strengthen ties was clear, but the details of this agreement would need further scrutiny.
"Hmm… interesting," the daimyo murmured. "Tell me more about the selection process for these caravans. How will Konoha ensure they are properly managed?"
Hiruzen smiled. The conversation had smoothly transitioned into practical concerns—a sign that the daimyo was no longer focused on testing him, but on understanding the benefits Konoha could bring.
The game of politics had been played well.
Hiruzen leaned back slightly, observing the daimyo's reaction.
"As Konoha and Sunagakure continue strengthening their relationship, the benefits of these ten trade quotas will only increase," Hiruzen explained. "Over time, we can expect more favorable terms and greater control over trade routes. Naturally, this means the need for stricter oversight at our checkpoints will grow as well."
The daimyo nodded thoughtfully but saw an opportunity to insert his influence.
"Maintaining those checkpoints must be a heavy burden," the daimyo said casually. "Perhaps the Daimyo's Prefecture could assist by providing personnel to help manage them?"
Hiruzen remained composed, but the underlying intent was clear—the daimyo wanted a direct role in checkpoint operations. That would mean oversight and influence over Konoha's security decisions, something Hiruzen couldn't allow.
"Your concern is greatly appreciated," Hiruzen replied smoothly. "However, checkpoint duty involves more than just administration. Many who pass through are ninjas, samurai, or even criminals—bandits, rogue shinobi, and cultists. Ordinary personnel from the Daimyo's Prefecture would struggle to handle such threats. For trained shinobi, it's just another day's work and mission but for civilians… it could be a death sentence."
A polite rejection, but the message was clear: 'This isn't a job that your people could handle.'
"But of course," Hiruzen added, "we can't turn down your kindness. If the daimyo truly wishes to help, perhaps additional funding would be a better way to support Konoha's efforts. We will take care of the work." — another underlying message: 'This is a job for professionals. If you really want to help, just provide the money.'
The daimyo understood the implication but he was unwilling to let the matter drop so easily. "Is there truly no role for my people? They could at least assist with documentation."
Hiruzen shook his head. "Unfortunately, even that is not feasible. Conflict can erupt at any moment. In a crisis, should my shinobi prioritize protecting civilians or neutralizing the threat? It's an unnecessary risk."
The daimyo sighed, realizing there was no way in. "Very well. Konoha's dedication is evident, and I will acknowledge that. During our next council meeting, I will put forth a proposal to increase the village's funding."
Shifting the gears, the daimyo saw another angle.
"By the way, of these ten caravan slots, how many should be reserved for the Daimyo's Prefecture?"
Hiruzen smiled at the question. "There's no need for the Daimyo's Prefecture to rush into this. My suggestion is a joint venture between Konoha and the Daimyo's Mansion—a unified caravan operation. After all, Konoha's influence carries more weight than any individual trade permit."
The daimyo's eyes gleamed with interest. "A joint operation? Tell me more."
"My initial idea is to establish a formal trading company co-managed by Konoha and the Daimyo's Mansion," Hiruzen explained. "This company would oversee all caravans, set trade policies, and regulate noble-run caravans within the Land of Fire. Konoha would handle interactions with the ninja world, while the Daimyo's Prefecture would manage civilian trade affairs."
The daimyo pondered the idea. The Land of Fire was the largest nation, and Konoha was the most powerful village. If properly structured, such a venture could redefine the country's economic landscape.
"But how would this company profit if it does not operate its own caravans?" the daimyo asked, cutting to the heart of the matter.
"It will have its own caravans," Hiruzen assured him. "Its primary function would be managing and supporting trade, but it would also establish its own transport fleet for high-value goods that ordinary caravans cannot access or safely transport."
He continued, laying out a clear example, "For instance, we can leverage Konoha's and the Daimyo's reputations to secure a bulk purchase of iron ore from the Land of Iron at a reduced price. This bulk supply can then be resold in smaller batches to the individual merchants at standard market rates. Smaller merchants benefit from faster access to goods, while we profit from the volume-based discount."
"Additionally, this company can handle exclusive goods—rare items from hidden villages that ordinary merchants cannot obtain. Such transactions require Konoha's backing, but Konoha is not suited for direct commercial activities. Thus, by creating this trading company, both Konoha and the Daimyo's Prefecture can benefit from it"
The daimyo nodded slowly, deep in thought.
"This is an interesting proposal… but profit distribution and operational details must be carefully negotiated," he mused. "I'll have my advisors work on it."
"Of course," Hiruzen agreed, knowing that control over trade regulations was more valuable than immediate profit.
The daimyo clapped his hands, signaling the conversation's conclusion. "For now, let's put business aside. Hokage, have some tea."
Hiruzen accepted the cup with a knowing smile. "This tea is excellent. Would it be too much to ask for a supply to be sent to Konoha every year?"
The daimyo laughed, "A small matter! Consider it done."
The exchange of pleasantries cemented the newfound understanding between them.
The Caravan Negotiations —
When Hiruzen and the daimyo returned to the main hall, the negotiations between Danzo and the noble officials were well underway. Both leaders took their seats without interfering, merely observing.
Danzo, ever the strategist, was unfazed by the ongoing debate.
"Lord Danzo," one noble objected, "isn't a 50-million-ryo coordination fee per caravan excessive? Other merchants already trade with the Wind Country. What makes these quotas so special?"
Danzo's expression remained impassive. "We aren't forcing anyone to pay. We've presented the opportunity. If it weren't for the Daimyo's connection, you wouldn't even have heard about these ten slots."
"But this is merely a trial run between Konoha and Sunagakure. There are no guarantees," another noble argued.
Danzo narrowed his eyes. "Konoha is fully committed to this plan, and I believe Sunagakure is as well. Right now, we're in the early stages. This 50-million-ryo fee is a bargain. Do you think our coordination costs nothing?"
"A single trip outside the village to negotiate trade terms is at least an A-rank mission. A-rank missions cost anywhere between 1 and 5 million ryo per assignment. Now consider the multiple negotiations and logistical arrangements required—50 million barely covers the effort."
The room fell silent. Danzo had laid out the costs in black and white.
"If you still feel it's too much, there's nothing more to discuss," Danzo concluded.
The nobles exchanged uncertain glances. The price was steep, but the advantages of these exclusive quotas were undeniable.
Hiruzen and the daimyo exchanged a glance. The deal was progressing as expected.