Ken continued reading his memories for a few minutes. Sweat appeared on Ken's body. It was apparent that reading memories from a dead body was very taxing on him.
Finally, he let him go. His expression was grim. Kakashi asked, "Did you get any information from him?"
Ken nodded and said, "I couldn't read all his memories, but the ones that I could show that this bounty hunting was a scheme made by Kirigakure."
Kakashi furrowed his eyebrows. Ken continued, "He hadn't gone rogue. Instead, he was given a mission by an elder from the Mizukage faction from Kirigakure. They currently have a huge advantage against the rebels who are hiding. Since they are hiding, the forces of Mizukage are ideal. But, the rebellion means that no one will issue missions there.
So to raise funds, they issued him a mission. He was to go rogue, get in touch with other rogue Kiri ninjas and form a bounty hunter group. After collecting the bounties, they would secretly send the majority of the bounty to Kirigakure. That SealMaster was assigned as his deputy for this mission. Apart from them, all others were actual rogue nins who got used."
Ken's words left the four Konoha ninjas speechless. Even after going rogue, those guys were still being made to work for Kirigakure unknowingly. Fujin couldn't help but think, 'What a scheme! And what shamelessness! Sigh, every time I think that I am getting too shameless, this world gives me a reality check. These bastards are a hundred times more shameless than me! I need to improve myself.'
Back in Konoha, a chill passed through the spine of Hiruzen. He immediately got alert and observed his surroundings. He didn't notice anything weird and wondered, 'Why did it suddenly feel like someone wanted to take everything from me? Are any of my former students or teammates scheming something? It has been a while since I have paid attention to their movements.'
Back in the vast forests in the Land of Fire, Kakashi said, "It is a great scheme. The high number of ninjas going rogue should weaken them. But now, they have managed to make use of them instead. I guess that they have also sent guys like him to other villages."
He looked at the other Yamanaka ninja and said, "You inspect his memories as well."
The ninja nodded and got to work. Kakashi looked at Fujin and said, "According to our intel, the bounty hunter's group shouldn't have been so big. I guess two different groups allied together. We should be able to confirm it after checking their memories."
Fujin nodded. He had the same analysis after Renzo threatened him. Kakashi continued, "This mission is done, will you be coming back with us?"
Fujin shook his head and answered, "No, I have another mission. I will take my leave."
Kakashi nodded. Fujin flickered away. Guy looked at him and said, "He is quite strong, Kakashi. There weren't even half the bounty hunters alive by the time we reached."
Kakashi nodded. He said, "Lord Third is very positive about his prospects. I guess his progress shouldn't be very surprising. Anyways, let's clean up the battlefield."
Kakashi and Guy gathered the remains of every burnt dead body. Most of the dead bodies were badly burnt. The only ones who were in decent shape were the ones who had attempted to hide under the Earth Dome and were killed by Fujin's Vacuum Bullets.
After storing all the bodies, the two Yamanakas used Mind Body Switch jutsu to take over the bodies of the two prisoners so that they wouldn't suddenly attack. The group returned back to Konoha.
After returning, they reported the details of the mission to Hiruzen and Shikaku. After analyzing the data, Shikaku let out a sigh and said, "Despite being in such a mess, they still try to create a mess in other villages."
Hiruzen said, "It's because they know that no one would retaliate with force. After all, no one wants to enter into their mess."
He looked at Kakashi and instructed, "Deliver the dead bodies to Torture and Interrogation department. Have them inspect all their memories. Once we can't find any new memories, deliver their bodies to the underground market and claim their bounties."
He looked at Shikaku and said, "Find a way to spread the news of the death of Higashi Renzo in Kiri. It will improve the morale of the rebels. Though I won't be involved directly, the Mizukage would have underestimated us way too much if he thinks that we can't retaliate at all. Also, form a few patrol squads to roam randomly through the country to find traces of any other rogue Kirigakure ninja."
Shikaku and Kakashi nodded and left the office. A frown formed on Hiruzen's face as he analyzed, 'Kumo has already been trying to scheme a lot against us. Though Suna is allied with us, they are growing restless by the day. Iwa is silent for now, but once that fencesitter makes up his mind, they will become extremely problematic. And now even Kiri is making moves. Sigh, these peaceful times might not last very long.'
In the middle of the desert, existed a city that commanded awe and reverence. Amidst the harsh desert environment, this majestic city stood proudly, surrounded by a colossal wall that stretched as far as the eye could see.
The towering walls, crafted from sturdy sandstone, created an imposing barrier against the unforgiving desert winds. Samurais clad in desert-hued armor stood vigilant at the city gates.
A group of traders approached the towering walls of this city and moved towards the Samurais. The Samurais noticed their arrival. Among them was Captain Hayashi Ryota who was responsible for the safety of the city gates.
One of the traders walked forward and bowed respectfully. The samurais scrutinized the group with a discerning gaze. The trader, dressed in fine desert attire, exuded an air of confidence and respectability.
Ryota said, "Welcome to the Wind Capital, esteemed travelers. I am Captain Hayashi Ryota. State your purpose and present your trade permits for inspection."
The trader said, "I am Takahashi Hiroshi. I have heard about your valor, Captain Ryota. I am pleased to make your acquaintance."
Ryota's mood improved on being praised. Hiroshi handed him the required documents and said, "We are a new traders group from the Land of Bird."
Ryota and the other guards inspected the documents carefully and verified their authenticity. Satisfied with their findings, Captain Ryota returned the permits to Hiroshi and allowed them to enter the city.
Ryota said in a diplomatic tone, "As honored guests of our city, we trust that you will adhere to our laws and customs during your stay. Please be mindful of the city's regulations and treat our citizens and fellow traders with respect. Enjoy your time in the Wind Capital and may your business ventures be prosperous."
Hiroshi bowed deeply once again and said, "We are humbled by your hospitality, Captain Ryota. We shall uphold the highest standards of conduct and contribute positively to the commerce of this remarkable city."
Hiroshi and his fellow traders entered the city along with their caravan. As soon as they did, they were immediately captivated by the stunning contrasts and breathtaking sights in the city!
The streets wound through the city like intricate mazes and provided shelter from the scorching sun. Buildings of varying heights and styles rose proudly, their architecture inspired by the desert environment. Majestic minarets and ornate domes punctuated the skyline as their golden surfaces glimmered under the brilliant sun.
Hiroshi couldn't help but mutter in awe, "So beautiful!"
Ryota smirked and said, "Everyone who enters this city for the first time feels the same."
Hiroshi nodded and replied, "It's difficult to feel anything else."
Ryota nodded. Hiroshi said, "I'd love to keep watching. Unfortunately, some of my goods are perishable. Could you tell me where the markets are situated, Captain Ryota?"
Ryota nodded and provided him with the information. Hiroshi and the other traders began moving according to his instructions.
Soon they left the sight of those Samurais. Immediately, every trader's expression changed. The awe and captivation disappeared from their faces. Hiroshi said in a neutral voice, "Sell all of our products."
All the traders immediately got to work. Hiroshi kept observing the city. They had goods in bulk. So they found appropriate buyers and sold all their goods at low prices. In a few hours, their entire caravan was empty.
Hiroshi took all the money and said aloud, "Since we made the dangerous journey successfully and have plenty of money, we should enjoy some time in this village. Of course, in our time here, we will also check which goods are the most appropriate and profitable to trade. So enjoy yourself for the next few months."
The traders smiled and rejoiced on getting a long break. They split into groups and left in different directions under the envious gazes of some people. Though trading was very risky, if done successfully, it was very rewarding!
Hiroshi left alone and booked a room in one of the most expensive hotels in the Wind Capital. He stood on the balcony and saw the sunset. A golden hue was cast across the city making it seem even more breathtaking than ever. A smile formed on his face as he thought, 'In terms of the scenery, the Wind Capital is leagues ahead of the Fire Capital.'
