Where sea mist permeated the air lay the hidden residence of the Land of Water's daimyo.
"After handing over those eyesores, even this damp air has become much more pleasant."
Standing by the Tenshukaku railing, the Land of Water's daimyo gazed past the rows of Daimyo Mansions toward the Mist Village settlement in the distance, its outline faintly visible.
"That previous battle completely established their reputation in the Shinobi World—the Village of the Bloody Mist?"
"Yes."
The general standing respectfully behind him like a puppet shuddered at the question. Not daring to raise his head, he answered concisely.
Turning around and leaning against the wooden railing, the daimyo relaxed his body, greatly satisfied with the general's reaction.
Even the hawks and hounds he kept needed to be put in their place from time to time, lest they grow too well-fed and develop thoughts of devouring their master.
"You should understand what it means that most of the confiscated assets were transferred to the Bounty Hunters, shouldn't you?"
"Please rest assured, my lord. The Konoha-style Commercial Street built atop their demolished residences will generate enough stable tax revenue to fill the bellies of those arrogant soldiers in the mansion."
"But you are the most arrogant of them all."
"My lord, you are the greatest."
"Ieyasu, you've actually learned how to flatter."
"Those are my heartfelt words."
The general remained where he was, answering with a face full of reverence. Yet the cold sweat soaking his back tainted that spotless loyalty with a trace of murkiness.
"Hah. That old fox from the Land of Fire has already begun streamlining his forces. We have no choice but to follow suit. As long as the Daimyo Mansion maintains a certain number of troops, it will always invite the shinobi's wariness and suspicion."
"Besides, how