No one knew about the conversation that night. In the days that followed, Bunpuku and the delegation continued touring Konoha Ninja Village. Apart from its more confidential facilities, they visited almost everywhere, gaining some understanding of its architecture, culture, and institutions.
Afterward, Bunpuku was ready to return to Sunagakure Ninja Village. The reflections prompted by this visit had given him some insight into how to govern the village, and Kazemori Masaki had also offered advice on consolidating his position and authority.
If a shinobi village's leader lacked sufficient prestige and political skill, those beneath him would inevitably begin entertaining other ambitions. Although Sunagakure Ninja Village was rebuilding everything and could not withstand any major upheaval, people could still put obstacles in his way.
Bunpuku was not an outstanding leader. For the first half of his life, he had been nothing more than a monk confined to the High Tower, more scholar than anything else, without even a basic ninja education. His current standing rested solely on his formidable strength as a jinchūriki, the effects of the war, and Konoha Ninja Village's support.
Sunagakure Ninja Village, desperately short of talent, clearly needed people who could shoulder great responsibilities in the future. Taking advantage of this visit, Bunpuku formally asked Kazemori Masaki to allow the delegation's young members to study in Konoha Ninja Village, so they could learn from it and support Sunagakure Ninja Village in the years ahead.
Kazemori Masaki had no reason to refuse. Whether to maintain the alliance or quietly influence Sunagakure Ninja Village, this was a necessary move. Although it would allow Sunagakure ninja to acquire some intelligence, that did not necessarily outweigh the gains. Konoha Ninja Village's overall strength allowed it to bear those costs in exchange for substantial rewards.
The young people from Sunagakure, led by