On an island shrouded in dense fog near the mainland, a conversation was underway.
Inside a towering building in Kirigakure, in the Land of Water.
"Lord Mizukage, it seems Iwagakure and Sunagakure have decided to join forces against Konoha. Should we get involved as well?"
In the dim room, a tall, red-haired, heavyset man knelt on one knee and spoke in a low voice.
He had a mouthful of sharp teeth, and his tiny eyes, set in a fearsome face, made him look truly terrifying.
Strapped to his back was a huge, bandage-wrapped object shaped like a club. Every so often, it even twitched. No one could tell what it was.
At his words, the Mizukage, seated in the shadows, spoke in a low voice.
"Be patient, Fuguki. The time hasn't come yet..."
"Kirigakure hasn't involved itself in mainland affairs for a long time. This time, we must succeed in one fell swoop and show the other great nations on the mainland the strength of the Mist!"
"So wait a little longer. When the war truly begins... let's give the mainland a surprise..."
Hearing this, Fuguki narrowed his tiny eyes and bared his sharp teeth in a faint grin.
"I understand, Lord Mizukage. I'll make all the necessary arrangements. You can count on me."
The Mizukage glanced at him from the shadows and rasped, "Don't disappoint me, Fuguki. By the way, keep a close eye on Yagura's recent movements."
Fuguki's eyes flickered with confusion at the Mizukage's order. He didn't understand why the Mizukage had given it, but he didn't ask. He simply nodded gravely and replied, "I'll keep a close watch on Yagura. You can rest assured!"
The Mizukage nodded slightly, then waved a hand.
At the gesture, Fuguki rose quietly and left.
After he was gone, two tall