69novels Chapter 396 The Night of the Nine-Tailed Fox
Chapter 396 The Night of the Nine-Tailed Fox
Chapter 396 The Night of the Nine-Tailed Fox
As time went by, Taiyi was a little nervous in the first few days, but as time went by, he got used to this nervous state.
As a soon-to-be father, Minato was all smiles and showed no signs of nervousness whatsoever.
As expected of a man who can become Hokage, Taichi should learn this mentality from him for a few more years.
However, because of Matsushita Taichi's existence, the timeline of this world has skewed to an unknown extent, and Taichi can only grasp the general outline now.
Just like Kushina's delivery date, and whether Obito will attack again, these have all become unknown.
The only thing Taiyi can do is to make thorough preparations and be ready to deal with any unforeseen circumstances.
Fortunately, this situation did not last long.
7 month 14 day.
Early that morning, Taiichi, who was still doing his morning lessons, received a notification from the Anbu that the Hokage had summoned him urgently.
Taiichi knew that Kushina's delivery date must be today.
Without wasting any time, he quickly packed up, abandoned the Anbu, and rushed towards the Hokage Building in a flash.
Stepping into the Hokage's office, you'll find everyone there.
The Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, along with two advisors, Koharu Utatane and Homura Mitokado, Jiraiya, and the Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze—everyone who could come was there.
If you want to know why Tsunade, who should be here the most, hasn't arrived yet, then you have to ask that soft, fluffy bed. Why is it holding Tsunade's body so tightly?
When Taiyi entered, everyone's expressions turned serious.
It was Minato, the soon-to-be father involved, who took the initiative to greet them. However, from his tone, Taiichi could tell that he was no longer as calm as usual.
"Taiichi, I guess you've already guessed it, Kushina is showing signs of labor, and the baby will be born tonight at the latest."
Upon hearing this, Taiichi looked at everyone and saw that no one was relaxed at all. Even Jiraiya, who was usually playful, was serious at this moment.
"Everyone, why are you all so serious? Today is a day to celebrate. You have to trust Kushina-neechan. She's a powerful female ninja and she won't let you down."
As he spoke, he deliberately glanced at Minato and asked casually, "What, Hokage-sama, even you don't believe Kushina-neechan?"
Minato was also taken aback upon hearing this, and then the image of Kushina's strong-willed face appeared in his mind, and a smile unconsciously appeared on his lips.
"You're right, Taichi. We need to trust Kushina. She's a powerful ninja herself, and she has her own pride. She certainly wouldn't want all of us to worry about her."
"Cough cough."
Hiruzen Sarutobi coughed lightly twice, drawing everyone's attention. He then composed himself, his expression no longer heavy.
"That being said, we still need to take precautions. After all, it is the Nine-Tails. You may not have seen its true form, but it can truly be called a natural disaster."
Hiruzen Sarutobi's reminder made the atmosphere, which had been somewhat relaxed, serious again, but everyone felt better than before.
Look at the experts here: both Hokage are present, as well as Jiraiya, one of the Legendary Sannin, and Matsushita Taichi, the White Reaper.
This place has the strength, the medical expertise, and the sealing techniques of its masters; no one can think of any reason for failure.
"The Third Generation Lord is right. We cannot let our guard down. Now that Taiyi has arrived and everyone is here, let's discuss defense matters."
Watergate steered the conversation back on track, refocusing on today's topic.
"Elder Yan, all the Root ninjas in the village should mobilize and cooperate with the Anbu to monitor the entire village and prevent any troublemakers from causing trouble today."
Mitokado Homura adjusted his glasses and nodded solemnly, "Don't worry, I will fully cooperate with the Anbu operation and not give anyone an opportunity to take advantage of the situation."
Minato gave an encouraging smile, then looked at Jiraiya, "Sensei, I'd appreciate it if you could stay by my side tonight and help me protect Kushina."
Jiraiya then stepped forward and patted Minato on the shoulder, but said nothing. Everything that needed to be said was left unsaid.
"Taiyi, you have the best mobility and experience in fighting tailed beasts, so I'll trouble you to stay at my home and provide support for all sides' actions at any time."
Upon hearing this, Taiichi frowned slightly. This arrangement seemed to be mostly internal rather than external, especially with Taiichi stationed at Minato's house. It felt like a deliberate attempt to create confusion. Could it be that Kushina wasn't giving birth at home?
Taiyi would ask questions whenever he had doubts.
"Shuimen, are you placing the production site outside the village?"
Minato nodded solemnly. "I am Kushina's husband, but I am also the Hokage. Although I trust Kushina, I cannot allow this potential crisis to arise in the village, so—"
Okay, Taichi understands. This is a compromise between the responsibilities of being a husband and the responsibilities of being the Hokage.
Taiyi couldn't say much about it, but he still had to offer the necessary reminders.
"Senior Minato, every defense has its weaknesses, especially since you're still outside the village. The defenses there are definitely not as tight as those inside. Don't forget the space-time ninjutsu I reported last time; we're not the only ones in the ninja world who know it."
Minato's smile faded, and he nodded heavily, understanding that Taiichi was doing this for his own good.
"I will be extra careful."
Finally, Minato turned his gaze to Hiruzen Sarutobi, "Third Hokage, tonight, I'd appreciate it if you could take charge from the center and oversee the overall situation. If any problems arise, I might not be able to handle them all."
Hiruzen Sarutobi took a puff of his cigarette and smiled. "I'm still in pretty good shape. Tonight I'll keep an eye on things back-end for you and make sure there's no trouble in the village."
After some explanation, everyone's tasks were finally assigned, and the meeting was able to conclude.
Leaving the Hokage Building, the sun was already high in the sky, its rays casting a scorching heat across the somewhat bustling streets of Konoha. The sounds of children playing and vendors shouting mingled together, creating a scene of ordinary peace.
However, to Taiyi, this calm was like a false tranquility before a storm.
His steps appeared ordinary, but his speed was extremely fast. With a few clever turns in the crowd, he left the main road and disappeared in the blink of an eye towards home.
Pushing open the door, the courtyard was quieter than in the morning. Tsunade was already out at this time, either at an izakaya or a casino, and definitely not at Konoha Hospital.
The maids who were sent to help have not yet returned; only Mizuki is staying home on duty today.
When Taiyi returned, she was squatting under the eaves, carefully pruning the branches and leaves of several honeysuckle plants, the sunlight outlining her serene profile.
"Mizuki." Taiichi's voice wasn't loud, but it was more solemn than usual.
Upon hearing the sound, Meiyue immediately put down her tools, stood up, and bowed respectfully: "Lord Taiyi, you're back."
She keenly sensed the unusual aura emanating from Taiyi; it was a calm before the storm.
"Um."
Tai nodded slightly, and Zi Guang swept across the empty courtyard before getting straight to the point, "Tell everyone in the house that after get off work today, don't go anywhere else, go straight home."
Mizuki's heart skipped a beat, but she quickly replied, "Yes, Taiichi."
"Also," Taiyi's voice lowered, with a hint of solemnity, "if—I mean if—any huge disturbance, explosion, or other unusual noise occurs in the village tonight, remember, do not try to find out what happened, and even more so, do not join in the fun."
Your primary task is to immediately organize the villagers in the surrounding area to evacuate to the nearest shelter as quickly as possible, understand?
"Major unrest? Shelter?"
Mizuki's calm eyes were instantly filled with shock and disbelief.
A crisis requiring the activation of a shelter-level emergency? This was almost unthinkable in Konoha! She instinctively pressed, "Taichi, what kind of danger—is it necessary to go to this extent?"
Countless possibilities flashed through her mind: a large-scale invasion by an enemy country? A surprise attack by S-rank rogue ninjas? A natural disaster? But each one made her heart pound with fear.
Taiyi looked at the surprise and doubt in her eyes and remained silent for a moment.
He knew that Mizuki's worries and confusion were normal, but given her status, it was better for her not to know the core secrets about the Nine-Tails and the Jinchuriki.
He shook his head slightly, his tone leaving no room for further questioning: "I can't go into the specifics right now. Just remember my words and treat them as a top priority. Protect yourself, and protect those you can protect."
Looking into Taiichi's deep and determined eyes, the unwavering gaze suppressed the turmoil in her heart.
She took a deep breath, swallowed all her questions, straightened her back, nodded firmly, and her eyes regained their composure and determination: "I understand, Lord Taiyi! Please rest assured, I know what to do."
She didn't ask another question. This self-awareness and insight were exactly what Taiyi valued most about her.
"Very good." Taiichi nodded, a hint of approval flashing in his eyes. "Go and prepare."
After Mizuki turned to carry out the order, Taiichi quickly formed hand seals.
With a soft "bang," a shadow clone identical to his original body appeared beside him.
The two exchanged a glance, and without a word, the shadow clone nodded slightly, then vanished instantly as if merging into the air, heading straight for the Konoha Orphanage.
Meanwhile, Taiyi himself went to the equipment room to prepare for the battle that might come today.
The orphanage's courtyard was filled with the joyful laughter of children. Sunlight streamed onto the slides and swings, and Director Nono was gently playing with a group of younger children, her face adorned with a soothing smile that could comfort any pain.
Taiyi's shadow clone appeared silently by the courtyard gate without disturbing the children playing.
Nono seemed to sense something, raised her head, and when she saw Taiichi, a hint of surprise flashed in her eyes, followed by a knowing seriousness.
She calmly handed the building blocks to the child beside her, gave him a few words of advice, then stood up and walked lightly toward her shadow clone.
"Taiyi? Is there something important that you've come at this time?"
Nonou's voice was as gentle as ever, but her sharp eyes caught the seriousness on the shadow clone's face.
The shadow clone Taichi didn't stand on ceremony and said in a low voice, "Nonou-neechan, the situation is urgent. Kushina-neechan is due to give birth tonight."
Nonou's pupils suddenly contracted, and her brows furrowed. As a former "walking shrine maiden," she clearly knew the meaning behind those words.
The Nine-Tails Jinchuriki is giving birth! This is practically Konoha's top secret and carries the highest level of risk!
Her fingers twitched involuntarily, but her years of espionage allowed her to regain control of her emotions instantly, though her breathing became erratic for a fleeting moment.
"I see."
Nonou's voice remained calm, yet she asked in a casual, conversational tone, "Is there anything you need me to do?"
She didn't ask any unnecessary questions and went straight to the point.
"I trust your experience and abilities the most," the shadow clone Taiyi said in a deep voice. "Tonight, please remain on the highest alert at the orphanage. If any unusual activity occurs anywhere in the village, do not hesitate to immediately activate the orphanage's emergency plan, protect all the children, and guide them to the sturdy basement for shelter."
"Unusual commotion—you mean, there might be other enemies taking advantage of the situation—" Nono's brows furrowed tightly, a cold glint flashing in her eyes.
"It's very likely." Shadow Clone Tai nodded and handed Nonou a specially made Flying Thunder God kunai: "If there's anything you can't handle, don't hesitate to contact me immediately."
Nonou solemnly accepted the kunai and held it tightly in her palm.
"I understand, Taiichi. I will be careful."
Taiyi, the shadow clone, gave her a deep look, nodded, and his figure turned into a wisp of white smoke and disappeared.
Almost simultaneously, on the outskirts of Konoha Village, near the edge of the Forest of Death, deep in a dark alleyway of an abandoned training ground.
The air twisted and spun silently, like water with a pebble thrown in, forming a vortex-like hole from which a figure quietly stepped out.
An orange spiral mask concealed his face, revealing only a deep, cold, scarlet Sharingan. Uchiha Obito had once again visited the village where he was born and raised.
"Ha, what a disgusting false peace."
He whispered, his voice hoarse and cold, his gaze sweeping over the towering Fire Shadow Rock, which was faintly visible in the distance. The newly carved young face on it intensified the bloodlust in his eyes.
"Oh dear, you're complaining again?"
A mocking voice seeped from the ground near Obito's feet, and Zetsu, topped with a pitcher plant, slowly emerged from the ground. "Lord Madara, you certainly came with a heart full of passion for your infiltration. How does it feel to be 'returning home'? Isn't it especially 'heartwarming'?"
Obito glanced coldly at White Zetsu, ignoring his teasing, and asked directly, "What's the situation? What's the exact location?"
Black Zetsu's calm voice silenced White Zetsu's chatter: "It's confirmed. Kushina Uzumaki was secretly moved out of the village this morning, heading towards the forest area northeast of the village, near the Valley of the End. Minato Namikaze, Jiraiya, and elite Anbu members escorted her the entire way."
The barrier team has begun setting up multiple isolation and defense barriers at the designated location.
Her condition—signs of labor are obvious, her chakra fluctuations are becoming unstable, and it's highly likely to happen within the next day or two, possibly tonight.
Obito's breathing seemed to become slightly heavier beneath his mask, and his Sharingan suddenly shone with a terrifying red light, like the eye of a ferocious beast ready to devour its prey.
"Tonight—the day has finally come." His voice suppressed a twisted excitement and a destructive desire.
"Yes, yes, tonight!"
White Zetsu reappeared, gesturing wildly and speaking with a mischievous anticipation.
"Lord Madara, you're about to reunite with your beloved teacher, the Golden Flash!" How about it, are you excited? Aren't you looking forward to seeing his handsome face contorted in despair?
"Tsk tsk, to destroy your own beliefs and teachers with your own hands, that feeling—must be very special, right?" He deliberately dragged out his words, full of nonsensical teasing.
"Shut up, White Zetsu!" Obito roared suddenly, his voice like the howl of a wounded beast, filled with the fury of having his deepest pain exposed.
A strong killing intent instantly spread out, causing the temperature in the alley to drop sharply.
"What do you know?! This has nothing to do with personal grudges! This is for the Eye of the Moon! To create a perfect world without falsehood and without pain!"
Minato Namikaze—he's nothing but a stubborn rock blocking the path to peace! He must be removed! Stop with your pointless speculations!
White Zetsu exaggeratedly covered his mouth, feigning fear, but his tone remained flippant: "Wow, how scary, how scary! You're getting angry because your secret was exposed! Alright, alright, it's for the great Eye of the Moon Project, for world peace!"
He spoke in a deliberately aria-like tone.
"You!" Obito's eyes transformed from three tomoe into a kaleidoscope, as if he were about to erupt at any moment.
"Enough, White Zetsu." Black Zetsu intervened promptly, his voice low and warning. "Obito, please focus on the mission. Konoha's defenses are being strengthened, and their sensory barriers are becoming more sensitive. We need to be extra careful during our next infiltration."
17
He skillfully changed the subject, giving Obito a way out.
"I already told you, call me Uchiha Madara."
Obito's chest heaved violently as he forcefully suppressed his surging violent emotions and the sharp pain deep within his heart stirred by White Zetsu.
He glared at White Zetsu one last time, his icy gaze returning to the sky northeast of Konoha Village, as if it could pierce through the dense forest and see the heavily protected delivery room.