The Daimyo Residence Trembles, and Hojo Tokugawa Breaks into a Cold Sweat

The night was as dark as ink, spilling across the vast land of the Land of Fire.

A black afterimage tore through the thin clouds high above, accompanied by a shriek that seemed to rip the air apart.

The top-class ninja hawk from the Land of Sky was pushing its speed to the absolute limit. Its heart pounded madly within its chest, and every beat of its wings carried the terror of having its throat seized by an unknown horror. In its memory, Konoha Village's tallest building and the icy gaze cast from behind its shattered window were more terrifying than any natural enemy.

It did not dare relax for even an instant. The metal tube beneath its talons was scorching hot, urging it to fly faster—faster still.

Two hours later, after the Hokage Rock symbolizing the highest center of power in the ninja world had been left far behind, a completely different vista of brilliant lights appeared at the end of the horizon.

Kyoto.

The heart of the Land of Fire, and the location of the Daimyo Residence.

There was none of the grimness and vigilance found in ninja villages here. Instead, there was only extreme luxury and extravagance. Pavilions and towers stretched endlessly into the distance, lanterns dotted the night like stars, and the air was thick with the cloying sweetness of cosmetics, incense, and fine wine. Even the wind seemed languid and warm.

The ninja hawk let out a weary cry and landed precisely in the rear courtyard of a vast, heavily guarded estate. Artificial hills and flowing streams dotted the grounds, while rare flowers and exotic plants filled every corner. The entire scene exuded the scent of money and power.

A guard dressed in samurai armor had already been waiting there. He skillfully removed the metal