There were many secrets hidden deep within the ninja world. Years of warfare and endless battles had buried countless stories in the dust of history, gradually transforming them into legends and myths. With generations passing, most of these tales were forgotten, leaving behind only distorted mythological fragments that subtly influenced people's daily lives.
Discussing how much impact a single individual could have on the ninja world was unrealistic.
The changes Mizuki caused mainly stemmed from his actions taking place at a crucial point—Konoha village—creating an effect similar to moving a thousand pounds with four ounces of force. However, they hadn't significantly affected some fundamental outcomes. Tsunade still naturally became the Fifth Hokage, and Jiraiya remained destined to become Naruto's mentor. The one major alteration was the death of Red Sand of the Desert. Other than that, it was difficult for Mizuki—like the flapping wings of a butterfly—to change anything else. As time changed, what shifted more profoundly was people's hearts; minor details weren't yet enough to determine final results.
Of course, Mizuki's primary concern wasn't about altering other people's destinies but rather fulfilling his own desires and transformations. From being a Chunin with a criminal history and misconduct records to becoming a top-tier Jonin known for often disobeying orders—and with a sharp tongue that constantly got him into trouble—he had even gained a certain level of popularity. Whether good or bad, fame was better than staying obscure and unknown.
The chances of Mizuki being recognized on the streets had greatly increased compared to before. He had gone from being a background character to an elite extra—almost like a named minor role, though still largely unknown.
However, the fast-paced life of a ninja easily pushed people into focusing on the next day. The events of just a few days ago made everyone truly appreciate how ninja could turn watching chaos into an art form. Konoha's postwar recovery meant time was needed to heal old wounds and soften scars that wouldn't fade easily. Finding joy was the best way people had for shaking off sadness.
Unfortunately, entertaining others wasn't really Mizuki's interest. Managing the village properly was the Hokage's responsibility. Right now, Mizuki was extremely troubled as he looked at the mission assigned by Tsunade.
"Hey, Hokage-sama," Mizuki complained. "I just got back from leave today, and you hit me with a troublesome mission right away. Plus, I have to go all the way there. Don't you think that's a bit unreasonable?"
"There's no room for discussion," Tsunade firmly rejected Mizuki's objections. "Every ninja above a certain standard has corresponding missions, and this one is particularly important."
Mizuki had already read the mission details—they involved the Land of Water. Although officially classified as S-rank, the actual difficulty wasn't all that impressive, merely predicting potential enemy ninja confrontations. Its danger level paled in comparison to Mizuki's previous experiences. All intelligence regarding the mission depended entirely on the gradually accumulating information provided by Jiraiya.
"We understand the mission situation, but why hasn't Lord Jiraiya returned for detailed explanations after all these days?"
Hearing Mizuki's words, Tsunade immediately became so angry that a throbbing blue vein popped out on her forehead.
"That big idiot is way too easy to tempt. Kiri really knows how to exploit people's weaknesses. I never expected them to be skilled at manipulating hearts as well as using Water Release and Assassination Techniques."
"Manipulating hearts?" Mizuki blinked in confusion before suddenly understanding—it must have been seduction through women. Jiraiya had certainly fallen for such tricks before. Fame came with its price; some personality flaws were bound to be exploited by clever schemers.
"It must be the new Mizukage pulling these strings," Tsunade mused. "I didn't expect Mist, famous only for killing, to produce such an outstanding leader."
"Makes sense," Mizuki replied. "No Kage from the Five Great Ninja Villages should ever be underestimated, especially one who rose from the blood mist country."
Tsunade paid him little mind and continued, "You've read the mission details already—any questions?"
Mizuki shook his head. "So we're just displaying our strength and forming an alliance?"
"Don't put it like that!" Tsunade smacked the table indignantly. "It's called a diplomatic exchange that doubles as a mutual test of strength, to determine our positions in the alliance."
"And it's basically the same thing." Mizuki shrugged casually.
Truthfully, this situation was similar to the semiannual Chunin Exams held between friendly villages—an opportunity to promote talented Genin while analyzing future military balance among the Hidden Villages. The only difference was this time, two previously distant villages of the Five Great Ninja Nations would conduct this assessment, not limited solely to Genin anymore.
"Fine, call it whatever you want," Tsunade sighed, rubbing her temple in frustration. "But remember, your main goal is to carefully test Mist's strength without overdoing it."
Overdoing it? Mizuki couldn't help but smile bitterly. Did she really think Mist ninjas were simply carrots waiting to be chopped? Zabuza Momochi with his infamous Cleaver Sword could match Kakashi Hatake in a fifty-fifty duel. If a village capable of forcing Zabuza into becoming a Rogue Ninja existed, clearly they wouldn't be easy opponents. Mist wasn't only filled with Water Release experts but also numerous sword masters whom Mizuki particularly disliked facing.
"Do you think Kiri respects what 'holding back' means?"
Things might get messy if he tried just playing around while the enemy intended serious combat. Once real combat started, ending things decisively would become difficult.
"If Mei Terumi earned widespread recognition as the new Mizukage, she must be no fool either. Given how generously Jiraiya has been treated there, I doubt they'd do anything rash."
"I see." Yet Mizuki suspected that their hospitality might involve more than just good food and drinks—"fun hospitality," perhaps?
"One more thing: since I'm the deputy squad leader, who exactly is the 'senior Jonin team leader' mentioned in the mission scroll?"
"It's me," suddenly came a familiar voice along with a burst of chakra.
"Kakashi? Is Konoha really that low on Jonin?"
"Again, I'm sorry to disappoint, but the mission specifically designated me as team leader."
Tsunade looked at Kakashi Hatake, who had arrived, and said to Mizuki, "The exact number of Jonin in Konoha is a secret, so I can't tell you that. However, right now, the two of you are the most suitable candidates currently available. Both your reputations and strengths fit well—one has been famous for years, while the other's name has recently risen."
"Alright, setting aside matters of reputation, aren't you calling him your senior?" Mizuki replied, slightly discontented. "Seems like I'm older than Kakashi Hatake, right?"
"That part is perfectly worded," Tsunade pointed out bluntly. "Kakashi became a Jonin at twelve. You, Mizuki, at twenty-four, were only promoted to Chunin not long ago."
"Eh? So being a senior or junior is decided like this? Well, if we're going by that logic, Mizuki's qualifications really are quite thin." He had only recently become a Jonin, and his reputation was somewhat mixed.
Seeing Mizuki at a loss for words, Tsunade nodded satisfactorily. "Any more questions?"
"What about the rest of the team? Surely there aren't just two people—captain and vice-captain—without any members at all? Does that mean I'll be the only subordinate?"
"How could that be?" Tsunade answered. "You'll each lead a squad. Both teams will depart together tomorrow."
"A squad?" Mizuki mused slightly. "Genin?"
She hadn't mentioned individual team members but used the term 'squad,' implying a complete and mature unit. During times of personnel shortages, only Genin squads could independently carry out missions as full units.
"Mm-hmm," Tsunade affirmed.
"I see," Mizuki sighed with an understanding smile. "Why choose me?"
Kakashi was already leading Team 7. Among the currently vacant Genin squads, only Team 8 led by Kurenai Yuhi remained. The reason for choosing him was clear enough.
"There's no need to explain the specific reasons," Tsunade waved her hand dismissively. "You're not bad at all. Your abilities are sufficient, and you have teaching experience—you're fairly suitable. Though perhaps not the ideal candidate, you're still an excellent alternative. Most importantly, the students' parents specifically requested you."
"The students' parents?" Mizuki immediately realized. "I understand."
It must be Hiashi Hyuga who exerted some influence. Although the Hyuga clan might normally refrain from commenting on who led their eldest daughter's training team, once they expressed opinions or requirements, as the Fifth Hokage, Tsunade would certainly take them seriously. Besides, it wasn't difficult—Mizuki himself didn't present any issues, so it was best that everyone was satisfied.
Seeing that Mizuki understood, Tsunade offered no further explanation and continued addressing Kakashi Hatake and Mizuki: "This mission is entrusted to you both. Once there, communicate often with Jiraiya. Most importantly, clarify the true situation and intentions of the Mist Village. Jiraiya may sometimes seem unreliable, but his skills in gathering intelligence are exceptional. Listen carefully to his advice. Lastly…"
Tsunade spoke solemnly, "Konoha's rising stars must be protected. Bring them back safe and sound."
"Yes," Kakashi Hatake and Mizuki responded, bowing. With the mission settled, no changes were possible. Maybe this mission wouldn't even be very dangerous.
After leaving the Hokage's Office, Mizuki and Kakashi Hatake were making their way back when Mizuki suddenly turned to Kakashi. "Kakashi," he asked, "I forgot to ask earlier—why are we departing tomorrow instead of today? Shouldn't we be sticking to a tight schedule? I mean, aren't ninjas supposed to be all about punctuality?"
"Ahh, you were wondering about that?" Kakashi said with a smile. "It's not anything particularly important... It's just that one of the ninja on the mission encountered a slight complication. It's nothing serious, but we probably won't be able to leave today."
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