By the time Kisame returned to Kirigakure, it was already late.
Damp sea fog shrouded the village, and the air carried a salty, fishy tang.
He headed straight for Suikazan Fuguki's office, his thoughts churning along the way.
Yūto's words were like a thorn, keeping him from completely setting aside his suspicions.
A knock sounded, and Suikazan Fuguki's deep voice came from inside. "Come in."
Kisame pushed the door open and dropped to one knee. "Mission complete."
Suikazan Fuguki put down the documents in his hands and narrowed his eyes as he studied him. "What about the intelligence personnel?"
Kisame kept his head lowered. "They've all been disposed of. The intelligence won't leak."
Suikazan Fuguki fell silent for a moment, then nodded in satisfaction. "Good. Well done."
Kisame raised his eyes slightly, watching his superior's expression.
Suikazan Fuguki looked perfectly normal, showing no trace of guilt or anything unusual.
He relaxed a little. Perhaps Yūto really was just trying to sow discord?
"Thanks for your hard work. Go get some rest." Suikazan Fuguki waved a hand.
Kisame was just about to rise and leave when Suikazan Fuguki spoke again.
"Wait. There happens to be a meeting. Come along."
Kisame nodded. "Yes, sir."
The two passed through Kirigakure's dim alleyways and arrived at a concealed underground hideout.
When they pushed open the door, several figures had already gathered inside-the members of the original Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist.
"You're late, Suikazan!" a ninja with a large sword on his back complained impatiently.
"Shut up, Kushimaru Kuriarare. You never stop talking." Another of the Seven Swordsmen seemed to have disliked him for a long time and immediately snapped back.
"You have a death wish?"
Suikazan Fuguki snorted coldly. "Enough nonsense. Let's get down to business."
Only after everyone stopped arguing did