The Land of Rice Fields bordered the Land of Fire, and the journey took about three days.
These Root ninja were not particularly interesting. They spoke in lifeless tones, and Akashi barely communicated with them along the way.
Fortunately, they were fairly respectful toward him as their captain.
Night fell, and all was silent.
Within the dense forest, three ninja wearing painted masks dashed out and headed for the city.
They had finally reached the capital of the Land of Rice Fields.
There had been almost no obstacles along the way. It had gone so smoothly that it was hard to believe.
The Land of Rice Fields did not yet have an official ninja village.
Its usual security affairs were entrusted to Konoha or handled by samurai hired from the Land of Iron. Its own armed strength was easy to imagine.
No wonder Danzo had dared to send only three people.
The Commerce Minister's residence was built in the outskirts, a sprawling estate.
The mission details included a clear description of his appearance, along with a photograph. It also stated that he had a habit of reading in his study every night, and that the study was on the third floor.
"Are you ready?" Akashi and the others had already taken up their positions.
"This is a little different from what the information said. There are people patrolling nearby." Night Owl noticed something amiss. "The way they walk is strange."
"Samurai."
Tanuki immediately concluded, "One hand swings while the other rests at the waist, so they can draw their swords as quickly as possible."
Akashi nodded. "Looks like they were prepared."
The estate was enormous. Four people were pacing back and forth by the fountain in the central courtyard. They looked rather bulky, likely wearing armor beneath their clothes. They