Chapter 210: Distant Welcome
When Mizuki and Kakashi returned to the inn, the genin were still wide awake, animatedly discussing the day's events. For these young shinobi, every mission outside the village was a journey into a new world. Such long-distance assignments were rare opportunities, and in a world as diverse as the shinobi world—where chakra and extraordinary abilities shaped landscapes and customs—it was always eye-opening.
This diplomatic trip to the Land of Water was more than just a mission; it was a rare form of training. While the task's official rank might be high, the actual danger involved was relatively low. As the future pillars of Konoha, these genin needed both strength and experience. But reputation was also essential. Participating in high-level missions polished their resumes—it was, in part, a gilding process.
"Hey, Kakashi-sensei, we did a lot today!" the ever-energetic Naruto couldn't resist bragging once he saw their teachers return. He enthusiastically retold the day's encounters, embellishing some details—especially their charity toward the beggars.
Kakashi, his usual half-smile hidden beneath his mask, encouraged him, "Seeing more of the world is important for a shinobi. You all did well."
Such a rundown and morally ambiguous town couldn't be found near the well-ordered Konoha. Traditional shinobi rarely visited these places unless they had to, especially not for leisure. Places like this tested the will more than the blade.
"All right, it's getting late. We've got an early departure tomorrow, so let's get some rest," Mizuki said. "Kakashi, I'll take the night watch. You can cover tomorrow's shift."
"Oh? Why? Planning to nap all day?" Kakashi asked, surprised. "Usually we each take half a day."
Mizuki gave a bitter laugh. "My summoning beasts can't keep up with the ship once we're at sea. I'm not much use for daytime sea surveillance."
"Good point." Kakashi nodded in understanding. "Then I'll rest now."
Though Mizuki had excellent sensory perception, it had its limits—especially at sea. On land, he could use sealing techniques and summonings to bolster his detection. But on the open ocean? There was nothing to anchor to. He couldn't exactly rely on jellyfish floating with the current for recon. In battle, maybe. But for ongoing surveillance, he was useless.
…
As the night deepened, Mizuki stood high above the town, scanning the now-peaceful streets. A few late-night travelers stumbled by, including the occasional drunk collapsed by the roadside.
Most of the beggars and orphans had taken refuge in a few ruined temples. Once places of worship, they were now home to those abandoned by society. Mizuki could clearly see this in his sensory field.
"Is this how Jiraiya found Nagato, Konan, and Yahiko?" Mizuki thought. "Seeds growing in filth will eventually bloom into 'evil'—as long as the soil remains rotten, new villains will continue to rise. People who reject the world... and have the power to change it."
He had once considered imitating Orochimaru, searching these slums for exceptional talents. But time was short. In three years, unless someone was blessed by fate, they couldn't grow strong enough to matter. It was more practical to strike deals with Orochimaru and Kabuto, or work with the twelve genin from Konoha. Mizuki wasn't delusional enough to think he'd stumble across some "child of destiny." That was something only Jiraiya could pull off.
Feeling the future narrow with every step he took, Mizuki sighed and looked up at the unfamiliar stars.
Astrology and star signs existed in this world, often tied to divination and fate. But Mizuki didn't believe a word of it. This was a world where even the moon was artificial. Talking about fate and astrology? What a joke.
Mizuki was more inclined to believe that fate was being manipulated by certain beings. Otherwise, how could he explain his own transmigration?
…
The next day, beneath a clear sky and above glimmering waves, the ship sailed toward the Land of Water. The large vessel cut cleanly through the sea, leaving ripples that fanned out behind. Occasionally, seabirds dived for fish, vanishing and then reappearing with prey clenched in their beaks.
Several genin stood at the rails, marveling at the ocean's beauty.
"How are you holding up?" Kakashi asked Mizuki, who was also leaning against the railing.
"I'm good. Took the morning off to rest." Mizuki combed his hair back, the sea breeze having messed it up—again. It was getting long.
"We've got about a day and a half left. Should be smooth sailing from here."
"Don't get complacent, Kakashi." The sea breeze was refreshing, and Mizuki yawned lazily. "Neither of us—and certainly not these kids—are suited to battle at sea. If we run into someone like Hoshigaki Kisame again, we're screwed."
Especially Mizuki, who specialized in Fire Release. On the ocean, he was at a severe disadvantage.
Kakashi wasn't particularly adept at water combat either. He'd nearly been done in by Zabuza's Water Prison Jutsu. As for the genin… not a single one of them could use Water Release.
"Let's just hope you're wrong... Hm?" Kakashi's expression suddenly shifted. He lowered his headband, revealing his Sharingan. "We've got incoming ninja."
"You're kidding. Already?" Mizuki narrowed his eyes.
"From the direction they're coming, they're probably from the Land of Water. Maybe Kirigakure sent a welcoming party."
"That's best-case scenario," Mizuki said. "But even a 'welcome' can hide bad intentions."
"I know. You keep watch here—I'll check it out." Kakashi leapt over the side of the ship, dashing toward the bow.
To be continued…
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