During the 70s and 80s, Las Vegas underwent a period of explosive growth, transforming into not only America's entertainment capital but also a hotspot for covert operations and intelligence trading.
Thanks to its unique geographical location, thriving economy, and open social structure, Las Vegas became a melting pot for various intelligence agencies. You had operatives from the CIA, FBI, KGB, MI6, and even private contractors—all converging in this glamorous city.
There was even a joke at the time: if you wanted to see the world's top spies, you didn't need to look any further than the casinos and private clubs of Vegas. The local authorities often turned a blind eye to their activities, as long as they didn't cause too much trouble. This laissez-faire attitude gave rise to a generation of intelligence brokers and political fixers who turned Vegas into one of the most prominent intelligence trading hubs in the Western Hemisphere.
Now, Yuxi Peninsula seemed to be heading in a similar direction. The logic was straightforward: as the elites from major nations began frequenting Yuxi Peninsula for leisure, various types of intelligence naturally followed. A casual remark at a gambling table or a playful jest in Kabukicho could potentially contain valuable information.
Although Yuxi Peninsula had only been operational for two months, it had already caught the attention of Sunagakure's Intelligence Department. If managed properly, it could undoubtedly become a treasure trove of intelligence. Moreover, the ANBU units from other ninja villages weren't idle either. Given time, they would inevitably flock to this hub in search of hidden gems.
Reflecting on this, Jinghang couldn't help but feel a tinge of guilt. Before becoming Kazekage, he had never worked in the ANBU and had limited experience in intelligence gathering, which had remained at a ninja-level understanding. Many aspects had escaped his consideration. Fortunately, both the former Intelligence Department head Rasa and the current head Toru Yamashita were experts in this field and had quickly recognized the potential of Yuxi Peninsula, making preliminary arrangements in advance.
"How many personnel does the Intelligence Department currently have stationed here?" Jinghang asked.
"Right now, it's just the initial setup—not many people. Including me, there are fifty-eight in total," replied Gao Jin.
"That's not enough—not nearly enough!" Jinghang shook his head.
"You must understand, this place will eventually become a mega-metropolis with a permanent population of hundreds of thousands and a transient population nearing a million. It will be the largest city in the ninja world, attracting elites from all nations. Do you think fifty-something people can manage the entire intelligence network of Yuxi Peninsula? You'd work yourselves to death!"
Gao Jin nodded in agreement. "You're absolutely right. I initially thought the city's early days would be relatively quiet, but upon arriving, I realized how bustling it already is. We're all working double shifts just to keep up."
Jinghang chuckled. "It's not your fault; I didn't think it through. Here's what we'll do: I'll outline a few requirements. Write up a report based on them and submit it. I'll coordinate with Rasa and Yamashita to make the necessary adjustments."
Gao Jin immediately pulled out a pen and notebook—a habit cultivated during his time in the Secretariat.
"First, the number of Intelligence Department personnel here needs to be tripled. In fact, let's establish the Yuxi Peninsula Intelligence Hub, with you as the lead. Additionally, we'll deploy at least one regiment—no, make it two regiments from the regular army to station here. Our financial hub in Sunagakure must be protected. Otherwise, even petty thieves will come to take their share."
The reality was undeniable. History had shown that as cities like Las Vegas developed economically, criminal activities flourished. Turf wars and extortion often resulted in bloody violence, which only stabilized with increased law enforcement and military presence.
In the ninja world, such chaos must be avoided. A military presence was essential to deter troublemakers and maintain order.
"Second, mobilize the masses."
"Mobilize the masses?" Gao Jin was puzzled; the term was unfamiliar to him.
"Yes. Relying solely on a few embedded agents and informants won't yield much intelligence. To excel in this line of work, you need to mobilize the masses—after all, we have the home-field advantage.
Here's the gist: whether it's casino dealers, Food Street attendants, or Kabukicho hostesses, all of them can be developed into our informants. Provide rewards based on the importance of the intelligence they supply.
Over time, as these individuals become entrenched in their roles, gathering intelligence will be as simple as asking around. Your team at the Intelligence Hub will only need to collect, analyze, and act on the information. Isn't that how an intelligence network is built?"
"Brilliant, sir!" Gao Jin nodded enthusiastically, his pen scribbling furiously. The Kazekage's ingenuity never ceased to amaze him—this method could turn every resident of Yuxi Peninsula into an intelligence agent!
Watching Gao Jin's fervor, Jinghang smirked inwardly. Of course, it was brilliant—this was a tried-and-true strategy from his homeland. Whether it's MI6, CIA, KGB, or Mossad, none could escape the vigilance of the "Chaoyang Masses."
"Third, prioritize counter-espionage efforts. At this rate of development, Yuxi Peninsula will undoubtedly attract the attention of ninja villages worldwide after the Five Nations Summit. Therefore…"
And so, Jinghang outlined his plans while Gao Jin diligently recorded them. Their discussion continued until dinner.
After seeing Gao Jin off, Jinghang fell into deep thought. The rapid development of Yuxi Peninsula had far exceeded his expectations. Given its strategic importance, it couldn't be treated lightly. A capable overseer was needed to manage the city effectively and prevent major issues.
The commercial operations could be entrusted to Kōhei Hirai and his team, with Sunagakure taking its share of the profits. Jinghang had already assigned Kakuzu as the financial overseer, ensuring Hirai wouldn't dare play any tricks. However, administrative management and military control had to remain firmly under Jinghang's authority.
"But who should I appoint?"
Blood Pool Gao Jin was still too inexperienced and lacked the necessary finesse. A seasoned veteran was required—someone with the skills, authority, and charisma to handle all factions effectively.
After much deliberation, Jinghang decided on Maki, the former ANBU operative with experience governing the Moon Lake District. Maki had proven himself competent and ruthless—qualities essential for this role. The Human Resources Department could easily promote a deputy minister to fill Maki's position.
To simplify the transition, Jinghang planned to elevate Yuxi Peninsula's administrative status by half a tier, making it a full department-level unit. This would turn Maki's transfer into a lateral move, ensuring a smooth and logical process.
Satisfied with his arrangements, Jinghang resolved to implement them upon his return. For now, he decided to set aside all administrative concerns and enjoy a few days of rest.
While Jinghang and his entourage reveled in Yuxi Peninsula, a major incident occurred in Sunagakure:
The spoils of the Sandstone War—Han, the Five-Tails jinchūriki—had escaped!
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