The lead ninja's voice carried a hint of tension and resolve,
"Begin the plan!"
Another ninja voiced his concern,
"Isn't this place too far away?"
"We can barely see Konoha."
The lead ninja replied,
"This isn't our decision..."
"It was the Mizukage's order."
As he spoke, the lead ninja opened his right hand. A small sapling was growing in his palm,
Its only leaf trembled gently as if alive, then pointed firmly toward the spot where the two of them stood.
It was this sapling, with its specific direction, that had guided the two of them across the vast border of the Land of Fire, helped them evade Konoha's watchful eyes, and brought them safely into the heart of the Land of Fire.
The identities of the two were obvious: they were Mist Ninja sleeper agents.
Seeing the sapling's signal, the other Mist Ninja had no further objections.
The Mizukage had given them this sapling, which had miraculously led them past the countless watchful eyes. The Mist Ninja naturally trusted it.
"Besides, if we get any closer, there's no guarantee we won't be discovered."
The lead Mist Ninja explained,
The other Mist Ninja nodded and set down the boy he had been carrying on his back.
The boy had long hair and wore a kimono. His demeanor was somewhat melancholic,
He seemed mentally prepared for what was about to happen. He showed little emotion, facing it with composure instead.
"Lord Utakata..."
The lead Mist Ninja addressed him with great respect, but there was not the slightest trace of reverence in his tone or movements,
"Forgive me!"
The lead Mist Ninja formed Hand Seals and pressed all five fingers against Utakata's abdomen,
"Release Tailed Beast Seal."
"Release!"
The next moment, the Tailed Beast Chakra poured out of the boy's frail body