Chapter 218: The Burden of Fame
"Kakashi, does our village often do things like this? Sending shinobi to maintain order in key strongholds?"
Restoring order from chaos was no easy task—both manpower and resources had to be heavily invested.
"We used to," Kakashi replied with a wry smile. "But not as a routine measure. The Land of Fire is too vast; it needs too many people. Nowadays... just having enough strength to suppress unrest is hard enough."
"But Kirigakure is doing this," Mizuki gestured at several young shinobi stationed nearby. "Even genin—this kind of deployment is rare."
"Looks like you were right. The Fifth Mizukage truly is a capable leader."
Mizuki carefully observed the surroundings. "Whether it's a coincidence that we saw this, or whether they staged it just for our benefit, either way, it's a positive sign. And honestly, I lean toward the former."
Kakashi nodded in agreement. "That makes me more confident in this alliance. That's a good thing, Mizuki."
"Yeah."
Mizuki quickened his pace, catching up to Ao, who had gone on ahead.
"Let's not keep our host waiting—if we hurry, we'll make it in time for lunch…"
…
Jagged stone peaks jutted skyward from misty hills, encircling the hidden village. Amid swirling fog, Kirigakure loomed like a phantom. Even as midday sun blazed overhead, it failed to cut through the dense mist shrouding the village. Wisps of fog drifted lazily like smoke, casting an almost surreal beauty over the infamous "Bloody Mist." A landscape rare in the Land of Fire drew expressions of awe from the Konoha group.
"So this is Kirigakure… it feels really different from Konoha," said Naruto. But with his limited appreciation for scenery, he didn't sound very impressed.
Ao, leading the group, smiled. "To us Mist-nin, this is just the everyday view. Visitors may find it hard to get used to."
Their footsteps echoed along the foggy path as moist sea wind rustled the roadside trees.
"There are way fewer people than in Konoha," observed Kiba after a short walk.
"Of course," Ao responded, again patiently explaining, "Compared to your blessed village, we're still far behind."
Although honest, the sourness in his tone was impossible to miss.
From their recent interactions, Mizuki had already formed an impression of Ao. Outwardly he was the perfect senior shinobi: properly dressed, traditional demeanor, and stern composure. But in reality, Ao was socially tone-deaf—his words often careless and off-putting. His rigid style masked what Mizuki recognized as poor emotional intelligence. His tendency to act superior only added to the irritation.
Still, Mizuki had no interest in provoking him. Ao likely had considerable strength, especially given his Byakugan—enough to impress most people. Mizuki, however, was not one of them.
Kirigakure, now in its weakest state, could not be held together by people like Ao. Its one true pillar was Mei Terumi. A kunoichi blessed with not one but two kekkei genkai—something not even bloodline elimination techniques, which fused three chakra natures, could guarantee. Mizuki had once researched if any others had possessed two kekkei genkai and even looked into legends like Hiruko, who allegedly served alongside the Sannin—but found no credible records. As for the rumored forbidden jutsu "Chimera Technique" that could steal bloodline abilities—if it existed, the user would be truly terrifying.
…
"You've arrived. Jiraiya-sama has been waiting for some time. After your long journey, please rest first. Mizukage-sama will host the formal meeting this evening."
At the village gate, a Mist ANBU captain and several subordinates awaited the Konoha group.
Ao greeted the guards, then said, "I have matters to attend to. The rest is up to the ANBU."
And with that, he turned and left without another word.
'No manners at all,' Mizuki sneered inwardly.
"Please follow me," the ANBU captain with long teal hair said. He led them through quiet streets to a well-appointed apartment building.
"This will be your residence for the next few days. If you need anything, feel free to ask."
He clapped his hands, summoning a shy-looking teenage boy.
"This is your guide. If you want to tour the village, he'll assist you. Chōjūrō! Don't dawdle—greet our guests!"
The timid Chōjūrō quickly bowed in greeting.
"Thank you," Kakashi smiled. "And no need to be so formal, young man. By the way, is Jiraiya-sama inside?"
"We're not sure," the captain replied. "We haven't tracked his movements. Jiraiya-sama comes and goes as he pleases—he needs no escort."
"Oh, I see," Kakashi nodded.
'Probably because he's always sneaking into those kinds of places,' Mizuki thought, not without some malice.
"May I ask your name?" Kakashi inquired.
"You may call me 'Ken'—ANBU captain of Kirigakure."
With that, Ken and his team departed, leaving behind the awkward and soft-spoken Chōjūrō.
…
Back in the Mizukage's office, Mei Terumi frowned at Ao.
"You couldn't even assess that Mizuki guy? Forget Kakashi—I get it if he's too strong—but him?"
"Yes," Ao admitted with a helpless expression. "Konoha's strength is truly astounding. That Mizuki fellow, who I thought was just inflated by rumors, turned out to be the real deal."
Mei rubbed her temples, both annoyed and intrigued.
Even the lesser-known shinobi of Konoha were proving formidable. This alliance might be more delicate than anticipated.
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