The Land of Water had a humid, rainy climate. With most of its territory close to the sea, even the air felt damp.
More often than not, mist shrouded the streets. In this place known as the Blood Mist, people sometimes heard screams through the haze.
River and his two companions stayed in a forest not far from Kirigakure. It was well concealed, so they had no need to worry about being discovered.
"Very good, Shiro. You have real talent."
"You're sure to become an excellent ninja someday."
Shisui's voice rang out.
Shiro's talent went without saying. Even growing up alongside a fellow like Zabuza, Shiro had managed to develop those abilities.
Now, with a dedicated teacher like Shisui providing guidance, Shiro made astonishing progress, both in chakra training and in other areas of study.
Meanwhile, River secretly observed the Kaguya Clan's movements.
Through Wood Release, he could gather a great deal of intelligence with ease.
At the same time, within the Kaguya Clan's compound in Kirigakure.
Houses stood in neat, staggered rows. Tall figures with braided hair and cold auras patrolled everywhere.
A breeze swept through the courtyard, swaying the flowers and grass.
A closer look would reveal that those plants turned on their own, as though conscious, their leaves pricking up like ears.
"They're going too far. They aren't even bothering to hide their surveillance anymore!"
"Now they're even restricting our clansmen's movements."
A chilling voice came from a doorway. The surrounding plants and trees trembled slightly, then fell still.
"What do you intend to do, then? Kimimaro is still nowhere near fully grown."
"Besides, he's our clan's sharpest weapon. We can't deploy him lightly!"
Another voice spoke, its tone icy.
"Damn it! Those bastards have gone too far. They've cut off our last retreat."
"Shugo, Kirigakure won't