"One could say it's living up to its reputation," Mei Terumi mused, beginning to realize how immense her responsibilities were and how long the road ahead would be while managing the Hidden Mist Village under tremendous pressure.
After a moment of contemplation, Mei continued, "Having a strong ally is a good thing, but being overly dominant isn't. We originally thought Konoha, having suffered a heavy blow, would show signs of decline. However, despite the damage caused by Orochimaru's attack and Sunagakure's betrayal, their foundation remains intact. It looks like we'll have to adjust our expectations downward."
"Forgive me, Lady Mizukage. I've failed to ease your burdens," Ao responded with slight embarrassment. Ultimately, it was due to their lack of strength—left at a disadvantage during this mutual display of power.
"Very well then, thank you for handling this matter. I never expected Konoha to send someone as powerful as Kakashi, the 'Copy Ninja.' Even I must handle him carefully; there's nothing we can do about it." With limited manpower, Mei tried to comfort one of the few subordinates she could rely on.
"Now, I must trouble you further. Those rogue ninja scattered across the land must be eliminated quickly, especially those arriving by ship to Water Country. Extra caution in protecting against them is necessary. We cannot allow outsiders to keep thinking of us as that slaughterhouse known as the 'Village of Bloody Mist.' Keep patrol intensity at its current level for a while longer."
Ao hesitated before replying, "The Anbu handle covert clean-up operations, but our overt battle readiness is extremely limited, Mizukage-sama. Could more personnel be assigned?"
"That's out of the question—you'll have to work with what you have. Right now even Genin have been burdened with extremely heavy duties. Maintaining stability across Water Country is our top priority..."
"Fine… I'll do my best." With no choice but to nod in agreement, Ao realized that especially in times like these, internal chaos absolutely could not happen. I guess I'll still have to take point on the frontlines myself.
Looking at Ao preparing to leave, Mei suddenly seemed to remember something and asked, "By the way, how has Chojuro been doing lately?"
While organizing her available personnel after securing the Mizukage seat, Mei noticed Chojuro—a young man with a clean background and outstanding talent. What mattered most was that he seemed deeply loyal to her; someone who could become a promising asset to develop.
"That weakling lacking composure or courage as a ninja?" Ao didn't even try to hide his contempt upon hearing mention of someone he disliked. "Recently he's been assigned as a guide and liaison for the Konoha ninja. Seems that's about all he's good for."
Due to differences in character and prejudice, Ao—a veteran ninja surviving under the Fourth Mizukage Yagura's era—looked down on ambitious newcomers like Chojuro from the new generation. Especially with that timid personality completely at odds with the Hidden Mist ninja's usual conduct, Ao had always been greatly displeased that traditionalists like himself fell so far out of favor while such an individual gained Mei's attention.
"So he's interacting with Konoha ninja? Well enough. Let's see what progress he makes hanging around with Konoha's Genin..."
Mei mused aloud, seemingly unaware of Ao's tone of disdain.
Noticing that his opinion appeared to be disregarded, Ao was already well accustomed to Mei Terumi occasionally losing focus during their conversations. After offering a respectful bow, he left the office, leaving the Fifth Mizukage alone at her desk.
...
In this distinctly foreign setting, Mizuki stood by the window, silently observing the mist-shrouded village of Kiri.
In terms of sheer size, Kiri was clearly much smaller than Konoha. The level of prosperity couldn't compare either—Konoha should have been lively and bustling by now. Here, however, there were more ninja wearing forehead protectors than ordinary civilians. Even though the Konoha ninjas weren't staying in the busiest part of Kiri, the situation still came as a bit of a surprise. Yet, even though many pedestrians showed signs of hardship, they still wore smiles brimming with hope—a clear sign of how much they hoped for a better tomorrow.
Inside this upscale apartment building, the Konoha ninjas occupied what were likely the best rooms available. Mizuki's room was on the top floor, offering a breathtaking panoramic view. Gazing into the distance at the lush rainforest veiled in drizzle and mingled with a slight mist, he inhaled deeply the moisture-laden air, truly feeling refreshed.
As Mizuki quietly admired the scenery, a sharp knock suddenly echoed from the door.
"Come in."
The door opened, and Shino Aburame entered, wrapped up completely.
"Teacher Mizuki, do you have a moment?"
"Mm," Mizuki nodded. "What is it?"
"I have some questions I'd like to ask Teacher Mizuki."
"Please, come sit," Mizuki gestured. The two sat across from each other at a small tea table near the large window. He poured them both a cup of tea and handed one to Shino Aburame. "What's on your mind?"
Shino accepted the cup gratefully before asking, "Since arriving in the Land of Water, I've had this question on my mind—the environment here really surprised me."
After taking a sip of tea, Shino continued, "Judging from its appearance, this place clearly has abundant water sources, and the lush rainforests suggest the natural conditions should make survival relatively easy. However..."
Shino paused briefly, seemingly searching for the right words.
Mizuki offered a slight smile and picked up where he left off: "Do you mean the environment feels somehow abnormal? Like the number and variety of insects are surprisingly low, and even though the rainforest looks thick, it doesn't feel as vibrant or thriving as expected?"
Shino gave a slight nod. "Precisely. Compared to the environment in the Land of Fire, this is truly strange. Logically, it shouldn't be like this. Also, my parasitic bugs aren't nearly as active as they were back in the Land of Fire."
"The reason behind this phenomenon is something most people overlook. As an insect handler, you're especially sensitive to environmental changes. But this isn't man-made—it's caused by natural forces. So don't worry too much about it; you'll get used to it after some time."
"Not man-made?"
"Yeah. People say the Land of Water is barren, but when you compare it to the sand-covered Land of Wind, it's obviously more alive. So why does everyone consider it poor?"
"This has also been bugging me."
"It's actually connected to the issue with your Parasitic Bugs. They're both due to major changes in the external environment."
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