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Chapter 188 - Chapter 188: Sakumo Hatake's Trail

Due to the changes brought forth by Shiyu Uchiha, Sakumo Hatake's fate diverged drastically from the established path in the original Naruto canon. The man who was once destined to perish in that brutal internal conflict managed to survive. And for the sake of his beliefs, he resolutely chose to leave behind the village that had once been so familiar to him, embarking on a long journey of wandering.

Despite relying on rich experience accumulated over many years and retaining formidable power still at Kage-level without any decline, in this unpredictable world, it ultimately proved impossible to completely avoid the risk of his whereabouts being exposed.

If one were to discuss who currently in the Ninja World cared most about Sakumo Hatake, even combining the concerns of Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, and Danzō—those deeply calculating individuals—their combined concern would likely pale in comparison to Chiyo's alone. Therefore, like a sharp hunter, she locked onto Sakumo Hatake, who was wandering across the Land of Iron.

An intense and tense tracking operation commenced. Unfortunately, not everyone possessed White Zetsu's nearly imperceptible hiding abilities. The Sand-nin's carefully planned tracking methods were soon detected by Sakumo Hatake himself, thanks to his exceptional insight and swift reactions.

Knowing the Sand-nin hated him, Sakumo understood the danger if they found his trail and launched a hunt. Thus, he decisively set out to swiftly pass through the Land of Earth's border region and head for the Land of Snow, hoping to finally shake off the Sand-nin and escape this looming threat.

Today seemed like an extraordinary favor from destiny itself for Chiyo, as the long-sought trail of Sakumo Hatake finally came into her grasp after tireless searching.

A powerful sense of determination surged within Chiyo—an intense flame burning deep inside her heart, making her keenly aware that this opportunity to seek revenge against her enemy and avenge her son and daughter-in-law must not be easily relinquished.

Standing aside, the Third Kazekage's eyes revealed a quiet sense of helplessness and inner conflict. He knew logically that such reckless pursuit of vengeance wasn't wise, yet upon seeing Chiyo—who had already grown slightly frenzied—he understood there was simply no stopping her steps.

To forcefully intervene meant provoking deep-seated enmity with Chiyo, potentially dragging the entire Sand Village into an internal turmoil—a price possibly far too great.

Hence, after much thoughtful deliberation, he could only choose the lesser evil between two unfavorable options. Slowly nodding his head, he gave approval to Chiyo's desire for revenge.

Simultaneously, since a decision had been made, he wasn't one to hesitate afterward. He decisively dispatched a group of elite Sand-nin, demonstrating clear support for Chiyo's mission. These elite shinobi looked resolute; understanding the importance of this operation, they willingly committed themselves to work toward both village stability and fulfilling Chiyo's wishes.

Seeing the Third Kazekage's support, Chiyo's previously turbulent heart gradually calmed down, like the sea calming after a violent storm.

Chiyo sat in silence, her mind racing through each step of the plan and making careful arrangements.

The plan was like a tightly woven net, every last detail covered, all in service of making sure the revenge went off without a hitch.

After finishing the preparations, Chiyo stood up, her eyes filled with complex emotions. She let out a soft sigh, filled with affection for her beloved and adorable grandson, Sasori. She knew this departure could stretch into an eternity—perhaps even become a final farewell.

But for the sake of her son and daughter-in-law, she had no choice but to walk this dangerous path. Quietly adjusting her robes, she turned toward the door, her heart torn between longing for her grandson and a firm resolve for revenge.

At the entrance, Chiyo took a deep breath, feeling the cool breeze gently brush against her face. She silently vowed that she would find Sakumo Hatake and make him answer for what he had done to her son and daughter-in-law.

However, as she stepped outside, her grandson was already waiting for her. While Chiyo was mentally preparing her farewell words, Sasori spoke first, simply saying, "I'm going too."

Though his words lacked context, Chiyo's heart sank. Still, she held onto a sliver of hope and asked, "Where do you think you're going?"

Sasori replied calmly, "I want to go with you to kill Sakumo Hatake. I want to avenge my parents."

His tone remained calm, but Chiyo's heart was in turmoil. This mission, though framed as a hunt, was uncertain—who would end up being the hunter or the hunted depended on Sakumo's strength.

Therefore, Chiyo refused firmly, "Absolutely not. It's far too dangerous for you. I won't allow it. You'll stay here in the village and wait for me. I promise, I'll return safely."

Looking at Sasori before her—his face calm, but his eyes filled with unshakable determination—Chiyo knew this child had already made his decision. Nothing she said would change his mind.

Sighing, Chiyo tried to reason with him. "Sasori, you must understand—this mission is extremely dangerous. We're dealing with Sakumo Hatake, a man not easily defeated. Besides, you're still too young. You don't have enough strength to face such an enemy."

Sasori listened quietly before replying with firm resolve. "Grandma, I know Sakumo Hatake is powerful, but I also have my own determination. I want to personally avenge my parents and let them rest in peace. I will become stronger and protect myself. Please believe me."

After expressing his thoughts, Sasori's expression remained unchanged, but his gaze—sharp as twin blades—locked onto his grandmother. In that moment, Chiyo felt as if a storm were raging inside her—her thoughts tangled and chaotic. A barely noticeable flicker of hesitation and inner struggle crossed her otherwise composed gaze.

She stared at Sasori, speechless for a moment, as if the eloquence she usually wielded so effortlessly had vanished into thin air.

Just as the two were locked in a tense standoff, Ebizō—Chiyo's younger brother—strode toward them with steady steps.

His deep-set eyes held a mix of concern and wisdom as he looked at the two of them. He spoke gently, "Sister, Sasori is no longer that clueless little boy. He's already fourteen years old now and has become an exceptionally outstanding Chunin. We can't keep treating him like a little kid anymore. It's time we started seeing him as a real adult."

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