After passing through a stretch of terraced fields, Yue arrived at a post-station village.
Such villages could be found everywhere in every country. Most were transportation hubs, so they were relatively prosperous.
The entire Land of Rice felt exceptionally quiet and peaceful, like an earthly paradise.
In reality, everything he had seen along the way had been extremely run-down. Only the environment itself had not been damaged.
No large-scale wars had occurred.
"Are you Fuma Ryoma's son?"
The moment he entered the post-station village, Yue headed straight for the village tavern.
This was Fuma Clan territory. They naturally made their living by robbing travelers and controlled every "black inn" in the village.
So, when Yue, carrying a backpack, pushed open the door, announced his name to the proprietor, and walked in, he indeed met a member of the Fuma Clan.
Before him stood a disheveled man carrying an enormous cleaver on his shoulder, studying him.
The man's weapon was rather interesting as well. It had no tip, as though the end of a broadsword had been chopped off.
"Hahaha... What an old name. Your father, Fuma Ryoma, left the Land of Rice many years ago." The man suddenly burst out laughing, his tone carrying a hint of surprise. "Still, I have to admit, it's impressive that a little brat like you managed to find this place."
"Fuma Ryoma... he isn't dead, is he?"
The man wore a sinister expression. "Although members of our clan make their living everywhere, leaving the clan means becoming a traitor."
"Didn't he tell you?"
Yue ignored his words and said blandly, "My father is alive. He is currently in Kusagakure. I came all the way from the Land of Grass specifically to find you."
"The Land of Grass?"
The man sucked in a breath.
"Bullshit.