Across the Shinobi World, people watched Naruto's monologue about his ambitions on the Sky Screen, their scalps prickling and chills running down their backs. Voices filled every corner of the Five Great Nations.
At that moment, everyone finally understood Naruto's entire plan.
"So that's it! This is the real reason Naruto was so desperate to find the Celestial Dragons!"
"It wasn't about protecting the Shinobi World or maintaining the balance of power at all. He just wanted the longevity and power of the Celestial Dragons' secluded paradise!"
"Living past a hundred and fifty, or even two hundred, with ease! Who wouldn't be tempted? No wonder Naruto was so obsessed!"
"I finally get it! Naruto was using Sarada from start to finish!"
"He deliberately avoided provoking the Celestial Dragons himself. He had Sarada charge ahead and test the waters the whole time, escalating the conflict and setting everything in motion!"
"As long as he wasn't openly the one who started the war, no matter how bad things got afterward, he'd still have plenty of room to negotiate and clear his name!"
"Exactly. At worst, he could just hand over Sarada, the culprit, as part of the negotiations."
Someone remarked coldly, utterly resigned, "It isn't that simple. The Celestial Dragons have occupied that secluded paradise, a treasure trove of the finest resources, for a thousand years. Why would they ever share it with outsiders so easily?"
Someone immediately countered, "Didn't you hear Naruto's last line? If all else failed, he'd sink the Land of Rain!"
"He was already prepared for an all-out war. He wasn't afraid of a clash between the strongest powers at all! He'd pay any price for longevity and greater strength!"
"Damn him! He's despicable! Why should the Land of Rain be the one to suffer and get sacrificed