The caravan slowly began to move, heading north along the main road.
The wheels rumbled over the dirt path as five carriages traveled in a line, casting long shadows beneath the afternoon sun.
Mirai walked at the very front of the group, Minato guarded the flank, Naori brought up the rear, while Kushina patrolled back and forth.
Though the caravan drivers still had some doubts, seeing the four of them positioned so professionally, they said nothing further.
After walking for roughly half an hour, Mirai slowed down and walked beside Cangjing Yikong.
"Miss Cangjing, if you do not mind me asking, what goods are you transporting this time?"
"Medicinal herbs from the Land of Fire, along with some local specialties, to sell in the Land of Lightning." Cangjing Yikong did not avoid the question and answered openly.
"The Land of Lightning has a dry climate, so many medicinal herbs cannot grow there. Their prices are much higher than in the Land of Fire.
"After selling them, we will buy some highland beef there and bring it back. There is quite a profit to be made on a round trip."
"Will you take the same route on the return trip?"
"We will not need your escort for the return journey." Cangjing Yikong smiled and shook her head. "I will hire local ninja in the Land of Lightning to escort us back. After all, business takes too long. I cannot afford to pay such high escort fees for that long!"
Mirai nodded, silently committing that to memory.
Cangjing Yikong tilted her head to glance at him, then smiled again. "Little brother, how old are you?"
"Thirteen."
"Only thirteen..." Cangjing Yikong sighed. "You have grown quite quickly. In another two years, you will probably be taller than me."
"Miss Cangjing, please stop calling