The Nine-Tails Felt Wronged

The Land of Demons, the Shrine Maiden Palace.

All eyes were on Taiichi, some with anticipation, some with eagerness, and others with a hint of worry.

Taiichi glanced subtly at Kitsuchi beside him. Huang Tu had his right hand half-raised, looking like he wanted to say something but hesitated. Was he unwilling to let Taiichi heal the Shrine Maiden, or did he not want Taiichi to get closer to the Land of Demons?

"Whether it can be cured or not needs further examination to confirm, but from what I've observed, Shrine Maiden Highness's injury doesn't seem to be simple."

Taiichi quietly took two steps forward and looked the Shrine Maiden up and down. This was a rather unreasonable action, but no one stopped him this time.

"Taiichi's medical skills are indeed remarkable; he can perceive so much information simply through his senses."

The Shrine Maiden Miroku smoothed her sleeves, and as the wide sleeves swayed, a subtle ripple spread out, silently dispelling Taiichi's senses.

Taiichi's brow twitched slightly, and a slight smile appeared at the corner of his mouth. He silently withdrew his Chakra Perception, inwardly marveling at the Shrine Maiden's keen perception.

"My body can still hold on. Let's first clarify the matter of the Moryo with you. I think Konoha also urgently needs to know the current situation of our country."

"What the Shrine Maiden says is true." Taiichi's expression turned serious. "The information I received is quite outdated. I heard that the Land of Swamps has already fallen. Haven't the reinforcements from the Rock Ninja arrived? With their capabilities, surely they can't even stop them?"

After saying that, Taiichi turned to look at Kitsuchi beside him, his eyes filled with doubt, his expression clearly saying: Did your Iwagakure actually contribute anything?

That distrustful look immediately made the honest Kitsuchi uneasy. Their Rock Ninja troops were currently fighting desperately on the front lines, and every moment their comrades might sacrifice their lives for the Ninja World.

Even if you were Taichi Matsushita, you wouldn't be allowed to slander their dedication at this time.

Kitsuchi clenched his fists, his clumsy words unable to refute for the time being, but he had already taken a fighting stance.

"Lord Kitsuchi and the ninjas of Iwagakure have done their best. If it weren't for their help, the Land of Demons might have already fallen."

The Shrine Maiden Miroku spoke up just in time, nodding to the Kitsuchi in thanks for the support from Iwagakure.

This interruption immediately diminished the imposing aura of the Kitsuchi, and Taiichi their desire to cause trouble for Taiyi faded somewhat.

"The Moryo and their Ghost Legion are immortal and indestructible. Ordinary methods are simply ineffective in eliminating or even stopping them. What's worse, it seems that ninjas are assisting them. Our organized defenses are frequently attacked and destroyed by ninjas, which is why we have been defeated so quickly."

Miroku told Taiichi all the latest information about Moryo, which also made Taiichi understand the current situation of the Land of Demons.

Taiichi listened, he checked his memory: Ninja assistance? Could they be referring to Yomi? But even the Rock Ninja were being repeatedly defeated despite their participation in the battle. Could Yomi possibly possess such fighting strength?

The more Taiichi thought about it, the more uneasy he felt; it seemed that other forces were involved.

At this moment, Taiichi thought of the two Akatsuki members who had escaped from his grasp before, Kakuzu and Hiruko.

Was their appearance in the Land of Bears at that time merely a coincidence?

Could the Akatsuki be involved in the escape of the Moryo from its seal?

Taiichi's deep thought was noticed by the Shrine Maiden Miroku. "Has Your Excellency Taiichi made any discovery?"

"Perhaps I'm overthinking it, but it's still best to say something to everyone, as a reminder." Taiichi looked at Miroku, then turned to look solemnly at the Kitsuchi.

"On my way here, I encountered Kakuzu and Blood Crow Moryo from the Akatsuki in the Land of Bears. With the demons escaping their seal, they might be behind it all. Everyone should be on guard."

"The Akatsuki?" The Shrine Maiden Miroku looked puzzled, clearly unfamiliar with the organization.

At this moment, the female official who had led Taiichi here earlier leaned close to the Shrine Maiden's ear and whispered everything about the Akatsuki, making the Shrine Maiden Miroku's face grow increasingly grim.

On the other hand, the Kitsuchi reacted more directly and violently.

His honest and simple face twitched uncontrollably, his clenched fist turned white at the knuckles, and the veins on the back of his hand became visible.

Taiichi's words, "Maybe they're behind this," were like a needle, piercing a taut string in his heart.

"Akatsuki!"

Kitsuchi practically spat out those three words through gritted teeth, his voice filled with suppressed anger, "They're such troublemakers, how come they're everywhere in the Ninja World!"

Taiichi keenly sensed the extraordinary resentment and wariness in Kitsuchi's tone.

This is not right. Iwagakure and Akatsuki should not have much direct conflict, at least not on the surface.

The Kitsuchi's reaction at this moment was more like a long-suppressed resentment and the frustration of being secretly wronged.

"Your Excellency Kitsuchi Tu seems to have a strong connection with this organization?" Taiichi asked tentatively, looking directly into Kitsuchi's eyes.

Kitsuchi's chest heaved slightly, as if he wanted to say something, but after glancing at the Shrine Maiden Miroku and her female official beside him, he swallowed his words back.

The village's secrets and shame are clearly not suitable to be discussed in detail here.

He simply snorted heavily and said in a muffled voice, "In short, if it really is these rats in the gutter who are behind this, things will be much more troublesome."

Taiichi immediately. It seemed that Iwagakure had indeed suffered a loss at the hands of Akatsuki, and the loss was probably quite significant, to the point that even a composed and tough man like Kitsuchi lost his composure like this.

He couldn't help but recall the vague information mentioned in the previous Konoha intelligence report regarding the departure of the Four-Tails Jinchuriki, Rōshi.

--Could this be related to this?

The atmosphere inside the main hall became even more somber because of the name "Akatsuki".

Dealing with the calamities caused by demons was already a headache enough, but now the Akatsuki has also gotten involved. The Ninja World is truly plagued by disasters.

Miroku a deep breath, forcibly suppressing the unease in her heart and the excruciating pain in her body. As Shrine Maiden, she had to remain calm and decisive at this moment.

"Thank you for the reminder, Taiichi. Regardless of whether Akatsuki is behind it, the most urgent task is to stop the Moryo and their army. Lord Kitsuchi, the warriors of Iwagakure are fighting valiantly on the front lines, and their sacrifices and dedication will be forever remembered by the Land of Demons."

She once again expressed her sincere gratitude to the Kitsuchi.

Kitsuchi's expression softened slightly, and he nodded, accepting the gratitude, but his brows remained furrowed.

Seeing Taiichi knew that it was not advisable to delve into the topic of the Akatsuki for the time being, so he took the opportunity to steer the conversation back to the present.

"I have a fairly good understanding of the situation. The rest requires me to personally go to the front lines. But before that, I wonder about the Shrine Maiden's injuries—"

Taiichi left Miroku with ample choice, without saying all he wanted to say.

"Then I'll trouble you Taiichi." Miroku didn't hesitate. The Land of Demons was going through a turbulent time, and there were still many things waiting for her to deal with. She couldn't let her health collapse.

After examining her, Taiichi's expression turned grim; the Shrine Maiden's injuries were more serious than Taiichi had imagined.

It wasn't a physical injury; the medical standards in the Land of Demons were clearly quite good, and the Shrine Maiden's external injuries had been effectively treated. The key issue was that an evil power was lurking within her.

This power is constantly damaging Miroku's body, preventing her from repairing herself, and this power is of such high quality that it cannot be removed by ordinary means.

As Taiichi carefully examined the nature of this power, he gradually felt a sense of familiarity.

After a moment's thought, Taiichi realized that it was the power of Evil God.

Now, apart from himself and the Evil God himself, who was the Blood Crow that Obito rescued, the only other beings in the Ninja World with this ability are himself.

"It seems the Akatsuki is indeed hiding behind the scenes."

Taiichi explained Miroku's current physical condition and his latest discovery to Shrine Maiden. Although she was somewhat prepared, Miroku's mood still became even heavier.

"Shrine Maiden Highness, there's no need to worry too much. The one before you is merely Shadow Clone, with limited abilities. The real body will likely arrive by tomorrow morning, at which time the injury will be healed."

Only then did everyone realize that this was just Taiichi's Shadow Clone.

Well, just look at the frozen expression on Kitsuchi's face, and then look at the Shrine Maiden's twitching eyebrows, and you'll know how awkward the scene was.

Taiichi didn't want this either. Normally, he wouldn't have to worry about his identity being exposed, but he never expected that he would have an injury that he couldn't handle.

"While I cannot cure it, I can alleviate your pain, freeing you from the agony of this power consuming you."

This is one of the Taiichi can offer.

"I see."

The slight anger in Miroku's eyes was immediately replaced by gratitude.

No one knew that beneath her wide Shrine Maiden robes, her body was trembling slightly. The cold, evil power lurking at her wounds was constantly devouring her life force and energy, bringing unspeakable pain.

She was sustained entirely by her strong willpower.

"Then I will trouble you Taiichi." Miroku did not refuse. The situation was critical, and she needed to remain clear-headed and have the ability to act.

Taiichi took a few steps forward. Kitsuchi and the female official instinctively wanted to stop him, but when they saw Miroku shake his head slightly in a gesture of greeting, they stopped and just watched him warily.

Taiichi did not directly touch Miroku, but instead extended his right hand from a distance, a soft and bright pale green light emanating from his palm, which slowly enveloped Miroku.

Miroku's body trembled slightly. She could clearly feel a surge of vital energy gently permeating her body. Wherever it passed, the cold, bone-chilling Evil God's power retreated slightly as if encountering its nemesis, and was forcibly suppressed and isolated.

Although it couldn't be completely cured, the continuous, excruciating pain was instantly relieved by more than half, as if a huge burden had been lifted. Even breathing became much easier, and a trace of color returned to his pale face.

"This is only a temporary suppression." Taiichi stopped, the light dissipating. "This is all we can do for now."

"Even so, it has been a great help." Miroku breathed a long sigh of relief, her voice becoming slightly lighter. She Taiichi, "I am deeply grateful."

Taiichi waved his hand, indicating that there was no need to be so polite. With everything settled, he would not linger any longer. "Time is of the essence. I must set off for the front lines now to see for myself the situation of the Ghost Legion and those attackers, and to obtain more detailed intelligence."

He paused, glancing at the Nine-Tails that had remained quietly in his arms, "As for Her Highness the Shrine Maiden's safety—"

He gently extended the Nine-Tails forward. "This is my Summoning Animal, I call it Little Nine." It's quite powerful and has keen senses. While I'm away, let it stay with you to protect your safety. I'm worried that the Akatsuki might still harbor ill intentions and try to assassinate you again."

Nine-Tails- Tailed Fox was dozing with its eyes half-closed when it heard Taiichi not only call it "Little Nine" but also refer to it as a "Summoning Animal." Its crimson fur instantly bristled, and it made a disgruntled grumbling sound in its throat.

However, Taiichi gently stroked its back, an undeniable Chakra quietly flowed through it. At the same time, Taiichi lowered his head and glanced at it with a half-smile.

The Nine-Tails immediately wilted.

Thinking about why I "shamelessly" followed him out, and thinking about Taiichi's terrifying fist—okay, Summoning Animal is then, protecting people it is then.

It drooped its ears, resignedly jumped down from Taiichi's arms, and walked to Miroku's feet with its short legs. It even rubbed its head against her skirt, trying to look like it was "very reliable".

However, when Miroku subconsciously bent down to take the "little fox," her movements suddenly froze.

Previously unnoticed, but now, being so close, the Shrine Maiden's unusually keen senses finally clearly detected the immense and violent Chakra contained within the seemingly petite Nine-Tails' body!

That fiery, wild, and destructive power slowly overlapped with the terrifying figures described in some ancient texts in her memory, figures that had brought calamity to the world.

Nine-Tailed Demon Fox!

Miroku's pupils contracted slightly, and his mind went blank for a moment.

The legendary world-destroying beast had actually appeared before him in the form of a harmless little fox, and was being treated like a pet by this person, who even wanted to keep it to protect him?

The stark contrast left her momentarily at a loss for how to react.

She looked up at Taiichi, her eyes filled with a complex mix of disbelief and deep confusion.

Taiichi naturally noticed Miroku's unusual behavior.

He wasn't surprised; with the Shrine Maiden's abilities, it was only a matter of time before she saw through the Nine-Tails' true nature.

He met Miroku's gaze, nodded calmly, and gave him a reassuring look. He then spoke, his tone calm and reassuring. "Please rest assured, Little Nine is very obedient. With it around, no ordinary villains can get even a step closer to you."

I was just taking precautions, after all, your safety is related to the stability of the entire Land of Demons, and even to whether the Moryo can be sealed away again."

Looking into Miroku 'Taiichi honest eyes, and then down at the little fox at his feet that was tilting its head and looking at him "innocently," Miroku felt a mix of emotions.

But in the end, reason prevailed over shock and doubt.

Taiichi is right; her safety is of paramount importance. And the fact that someone with such terrifying power is willing to protect her, even temporarily, is a tremendous guarantee of safety in the current situation.

As for what this means behind the scenes, and what the relationship is between Konoha and the Nine-Tails, these are not things he needs to consider.

She took a deep breath, forced a smile, and reached out (her movements were still a little stiff) to gently pat Nine-Tails' head (Nine-Tails twitched its ears unhappily, but didn't dodge): "Then... thank you Taiichi Taiyi, and also... thank you, Little Nine."

"Eek." Nine-Tails responded reluctantly, which could be considered a reply.

Taiichi nodded in satisfaction, then looked at Kitsuchi: "Lord Kitsuchi, could you please show me the specific route to the front lines?"

Or, if convenient, could you send a guide?

Kitsuchi was completely unaware of the Nine-Tails's true identity, but he still solemnly responded to Taiichi's request, "I will personally escort Taiichi there. The situation at the front is complex, and I also need to return to oversee command."

"That's excellent." Taiichi did not refuse.

"Your Excellency Taiichi, please be careful." Miroku, supported by a female official, stood up and solemnly instructed, "The front lines are perilous. The Moryo army is treacherous and unpredictable, and enemies lurk in the shadows. Please—prioritize your own safety."

"I will." Taiichi nodded, then said to Nine-Tails Fox, "Little Nine, protect the Shrine Maiden. Wait for me to return."

Nine-Tails flicked its tail, as if in agreement.

Without further pleasantries, Taiichi and Kitsuchi exchanged a glance, and in a flash, they disappeared from the main hall, leaving behind only Miroku, the female official, and a Nine-Tailed Demon Fox squatting in place, seemingly lazy, but with its golden vertical pupils gleaming with sharp light.