Undercurrents Stirring (Part Two)

The Forest of Death stretched vast and deep. Thin mist swirled around the North Two entrance. Compared with the bloodshed at North One, this place seemed eerily quiet, its damp fog obscuring the view.

Deep in the forest, a Kirigakure squad moved swiftly through the trees.

Mei Terumi led the way. Though still young, she already carried herself with the composure of a future Mizukage, steady in a way few her age could match.

Beside her, the broad-shouldered Kisame Hoshigaki carried a Ninja Blade on his back, his immense Chakra held tightly in check.

At the rear, a Mist Genin wore a tense expression. He stayed on high alert, not daring to let his guard down for an instant.

The three raced east, ignoring every squad they passed and giving up any chance to fight for the Heaven and Earth Scrolls.

As they traveled, the secret conversation in the study the night before still echoed in Mei Terumi's mind.

Yagura had sat at the head of the room. After Ao, standing behind him, confirmed that no one was nearby, he got straight to the point.

"You must have heard what happened at the meeting of the nations' leaders. Are you wondering why?"

Mei Terumi and her two teammates exchanged glances. Only after Ao nodded did she answer.

"Yes. We don't understand. Please explain, Lord Yagura."

Yagura's gaze was grave, but his words struck the three of them like thunder.

"Because the Blood Mist Policy has become a cancer in our village!"

Mei Terumi was shaken to her core. Disbelief spread across her face.

Hold on. Are you kidding me? You're a die-hard loyalist of the Third Mizukage, and you're telling us this? Have you lost your mind?

Watching their stunned expressions, Yagura slowly revealed the truth. "Years ago, I deliberately