Main World.
Winter, Konoha Year 20.
British Continent, New Capital.
Imperial Palace, study.
Winter sunlight streamed through the window lattice, casting faint patterns of light and shadow across the desk. Toyotomi Yinglang sat behind it, holding a report that had just arrived from the Shinobi World. His gaze moved slowly across the page, and a cold smile curved his lips.
Tsunade sat opposite him, holding an identical report. Her brows drew tighter and tighter, her long golden hair trembling slightly against her shoulders.
"Ninja lived alongside death on the battlefield, while nobles held banquets, showing off how strong their newly purchased jade slaves were."
Toyotomi Yinglang set down the report and leaned back in his chair.
Tsunade raised her head, a trace of complicated emotion flashing in her eyes.
"It just feels so disjointed. Ninja from different countries slaughter one another, while nobles from different countries live in harmony."
"Live in harmony?"
Toyotomi Yinglang laughed.
"No, they simply each get what they need."
He picked up his teacup and took a sip.
"Hashirama Senju had terrible judgment. He couldn't even tell friends from enemies. Nobles and ninja worked together, and the result is that nobles and ninja today are practically two different species."
Tsunade's expression shifted slightly.
"Two different species..."
"Yes. Two different species." Toyotomi Yinglang set down his teacup. "Ninja shed blood and sweat, while nobles eat, drink, and make merry. If a ninja dies, the nobles replace them. If a ninja lives, the nobles keep exploiting them."
Tsunade fell silent.
There was a knock at the door.
Yutian entered, his deep-purple governor's robes immaculate, a thoughtful look in his eyes.
"Your Majesty, Consort Jin, I have a thought."
"Speak."
Toyotomi Yinglang leaned back in his chair.
Yutian approached the desk and bowed slightly.
"The Shinobi World War is