Beneath the shroud of damp, gloomy air and dense fog that never dispersed year-round stood one of the world's five strongest military powers—Kirigakure.
Compared to usual, the village seemed somewhat less lively, yet there were more shinobi visible on the streets than normal.
Whoosh!
A black shadow swept across the rooftops like the wind. After several flashes and leaps, it stopped before the entrance to the tallest, most majestic building in the village.
A huge character for "Water" was clearly inscribed on the building's exterior wall.
It was the Mizukage Building!
The shadow revealed himself as he stopped: a young man with green hair, purple eyes, and a stitch-like scar beneath his left eye.
"Lord Yagura!"
Seeing him, the Anbu shinobi outside the Mizukage Building immediately ceased their intercepting motions and dropped to one knee in salute.
"Mm. You've worked hard."
Karatachi Yagura nodded. After offering a casual response, he hurried inside.
Knock, knock!
"Lord Mizukage, Jonin Karatachi Yagura requests an audience!"
"Come in."
An aged voice came from within the room.
After receiving the Third Mizukage's permission, Karatachi Yagura pushed open the door, entered, and respectfully bowed to the old man before him.
"Lord Mizukage."
"Sit."
The Third Mizukage sat behind his desk and lightly waved a hand. "How has the situation with Konoha been lately?"
Yagura sat down on the sofa as instructed. Upon hearing the question, he instinctively started to rise to report.
"Sit down. Take your time."
The Third Mizukage pressed a hand downward.
"...Yes."
Yagura straightened his posture. After giving the matter some thought and organizing his words, he said seriously, "According to the information Hozuki Sengetsu sent back, ever since that brutal battle a week ago, the Konoha shinobi trapped on Bluefish Island haven't launched any large-scale counterattacks. The fighting appears to have settled