Chapter 80: A Victor's Speech, Winning People's Hearts
Yoshiwara Ao took a steady breath, bent his knees slightly, and leapt onto the gate of the North City Guard Headquarters. Clearing his throat softly, he announced, "Greetings, everyone. I am Yoshiwara Ao, aide to the Captain of the North City Guard, Uchiha Tonan."
"In recent years, our North City Guard received several anonymous tip-offs regarding the trafficking of young children. Unfortunately, under the previous captains, these reports were met with little progress. But since Tonan-sama took command, he has placed the utmost priority on this grave matter. He mobilized the entire division and launched the 'Rescue Hope' operation to eradicate this heinous crime."
"Under his courageous leadership, the North City Guard conducted a covert investigation spanning three months. Sacrificing brave undercover operatives along the way, we finally identified the locations of all human trafficking dens surrounding the northern sector of the city."
"Last night, the North City Guard was prepared to strike. Under Tonan-sama's direct command, we engaged in fierce combat with the criminal underworld. In the end, we achieved a decisive victory, dismantling three major and six smaller trafficking rings."
"We eliminated 26 combatants who resisted fiercely, including 13 rogue ninjas, and captured 74 criminals alive. Most importantly, we rescued 63 children from captivity. Now, please join me in welcoming Tonan-sama to address you all."
With that, Ao jumped down from the gate.
Clap, clap, clap…
The North City Guard members began applauding enthusiastically. Civilians nearby, swept up by the moment, joined in. Suddenly, Tonan's figure flickered into view atop the gate.
The crowd's attention was instant. Tonan slowly raised his hand. The applause ceased instantly among the guards, and the civilians followed suit, completely synchronized to Tonan's command.
Tonan cleared his throat, his expression grave and composed. "Ladies and gentlemen, the North City Guard has secured a perfect victory in this crackdown on human trafficking networks. But this triumph is not mine alone—it is the collective effort of every member of the North City Guard."
"I must especially commend the bravery of our undercover agents. Their relentless dedication, unwavering resolve, and fearless spirit paved the way for this success. I also salute the entire North City Guard for their perseverance and refusal to shy away from hardship…"
(26,000 words omitted)
"Through the special 'Rescue Hope' operation, we have sent a clear message to the capital's criminal underbelly and effectively stemmed the surge of these illicit forces. We have staunchly defended public safety not only in the northern city but throughout the entire Fire Capital."
"But we must not grow complacent or arrogant because of this victory. As the steadfast shield of the people, we must remain vigilant. Crime does not end with these vile acts alone. The root causes that breed crime continue to thrive, and public safety remains fragile."
"Therefore, our mission is far from complete. Today, on behalf of the entire North City Guard, I swear an oath: We will never tolerate or shield any criminal activity. We will hold firm to our conviction, uphold justice, and refuse to coexist under the same sky as the forces of darkness."
Tonan raised his right fist high, his voice ringing with resolute determination. Immediately, a roar of support swept through the crowd like a tidal wave.
"Long live Tonan-sama!"
"Long live the North City Guard!"
"Long live Tonan-sama!"
Ding! Gained Nizato Tomoya's acknowledgment.
Ding! Gained Koshikawa Sota's acknowledgment.
Ding! Gained Kasai Kazumi's acknowledgment.
Tonan raised an eyebrow at the familiar chime of the system's recognition. This was an unexpected bonus—though these commoners wouldn't be much help in combat. Still, their talents might be inherited after they passed on.
Clearing his throat, Tonan raised his hand once more. The cheers immediately fell silent. With a commanding tone, he ordered, "North City Guard, obey my commands."
"We are ready, Tonan-sama!" the squad leaders responded.
One by one, over a dozen squad leaders stepped forward, drew their swords, and positioned themselves behind the captured traffickers.
Realizing their fate, the prisoners scrambled desperately to plead.
"Please spare my life… our crimes don't deserve death!"
"We haven't killed anyone! By Land of Fire law, execution isn't justified!"
Tonan snorted coldly, his voice sharp and unyielding. "I expected you to hide behind the law. Go ahead—carry out the sentences. Let's see who dares stand against me after I rid the world of monsters like you. To oppose the people is to oppose me. Is there anyone here bold enough to challenge the will of the people?"
As Tonan finished, he caught sight of Uekawa Ozora, Chief of the Guardian Residence, rushing toward him. Ozora's steps faltered, his face paling with shock and something darker beneath.
"My Lord, is something wrong?" a trusted subordinate asked nervously.
Ozora's eyes narrowed, his teeth clenched tightly. "Return," he commanded curtly, ordering his men to turn back.
Puchi
Puchi
The North City Guard swiftly executed all the traffickers. The civilians watching burst into applause, their joy unrestrained.
Ding! Gained Ishide Keigo's acknowledgment.
Ding! Gained Matsunoo Asami's acknowledgment.
Ding! Gained Hanaya Megumi's acknowledgment.
After the grim task was complete, the North City Guard began cleaning the blood from the streets. Tonan waved to the cheering crowd and vanished using the Body Flicker Technique.
Inside a spacious chamber of the mansion, the rescued children huddled in a corner. Many didn't yet realize they were saved, mistaking this place for another prison. None dared to cry or speak since last night. Some had endured too much already. One little girl lay fainted, overcome by hunger.
Creak
Tonan pushed open the door with a warm smile—then immediately noticed the unconscious girl. He rushed over, cradling her gently. Concern furrowed his brow. "What happened here?"
Ao hurried to Tonan's side, whispering, "My Lord, she must've fainted from hunger."
Slap!
Tonan struck Ao's shoulder sharply. "Why haven't you fed them yet?"
Ao dropped to his knees, bowing deeply. "Forgive me, my negligence."
Tonan snorted, waving dismissively. "No pay for a year. Leave now and prepare food for all of them. Also arrange baths and fresh clothes."
"Yes, my Lord!" Ao sprang to his feet and hurried away.
Soon after, a group of attendants entered carrying bowls of steaming food, setting them before each child.
The children swallowed hard, eyes wary and watchful. Tonan scooped rice porridge carefully and fed the little girl in his arms.
In a gentle voice, he reassured them, "Eat, there's no need to fear. No one here will hurt you. With me, you're safe."
At his words, the children tentatively reached out, grabbing the food and quickly devouring it. Tonan watched them with a soft, saddened expression.
"Eat slowly, or you'll choke," he cautioned quietly. "Later, tell me what you want to eat."
After some time, the little girl in his arms stirred awake. With Tonan's permission, she also took food into her hands and began eating.