Watanabe had heard about Mito's relationship with the Daimyo of the Land of Whirlpools while chatting with Tsunade in the past. By seniority, Tsunade had to call the Daimyo of the Land of Whirlpools Uncle.
Tsunade had also said that her Daimyo uncle had a daughter late in life—his only child, Uzumaki Kushina, who was eight years younger than her. In all likelihood, her younger cousin Kushina would inherit the position of Daimyo of the Land of Whirlpools in the future.
Whenever she mentioned her younger cousin, Tsunade sounded quite envious. She felt that being a Daimyo was the most comfortable thing in the world; all one had to think about every day was eating, drinking, and having fun. Unlike being Hokage, which was not only difficult to attain, but also exhausting and burdensome even after taking the position.
"I'm getting ahead of myself. I'm only escorting a merchant caravan to the Land of Whirlpools. There's no way I'll come into contact with someone on the Daimyo's level."
Watanabe put aside his stray thoughts and packed his luggage and clothes. He had merely been moved by the thought, associating the Land of Whirlpools with Tsunade.
Tsunade's network really was extensive. Not only was she a princess in Konoha, she could even be considered imperial kin over in the Land of Whirlpools.
After spending some time packing, Watanabe left a small note at his door, informing Might Duy—who came to see him every night—that he was leaving on a long trip and would probably return in a week. He then headed to the western village entrance to meet up with the merchant caravan.
This was the squad's first long-distance mission. Watanabe, Hiruzen, and Hyuga Rei had all made thorough preparations, carrying large packs and fully armed.
"Lady Chiri, please wait a