In the Land of Hot Water, the Kage of the great nations arrived one after another. The moment they entered the village, they sensed how different it was. Not only was the climate pleasant, but the buildings and facilities were neatly arranged, without the slightest trace of war. Along the way, commerce on the streets was exceptionally thriving, with everything one could want. Even the civilians knew the Five Kage Summit would soon be held here and had specially carpeted a passage with flowers. It was lavish and enchanting, with people crowding both sides, making for a lively scene. They seemed very curious about the Kage of the Five Great Nations.
Ōnoki had never seen anything like it. The fragrance filled his nose, making him sneeze incessantly, while the civilians' whispers reached his ears.
"Is that short guy the Tsuchikage?"
"Looks like it. He seems pretty old."
"I'm really afraid he'll drop dead any second."
Veins bulged on Ōnoki's forehead as he listened. He said to the two burly men behind him, "Quick, pick up the pace."
With that, he paid them no further attention. His feet lifted off the ground, and he flew ahead.
Raikage A strode forward vigorously, paying no heed to any of it as he hurried toward the prearranged meeting venue. His two guards followed closely behind. A tower soaring into the clouds came into view, with a huge platform at its top that looked large enough to hold at least several hundred people. It was an imposing sight.
His guard Hi could not help remarking, "The Land of Hot Water certainly deserves its reputation as the village that forgot war. I never imagined it would be so prosperous here."
A snorted dismissively. "Hmph, nothing but empty show. There are far too many people around, too.