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Completing an S-rank mission was undoubtedly satisfying, but what made Midorima even happier was that he had altered the ending of Princess Gale Ninja Scrolls.
As long as the worldline didn't converge, Koyuki could continue her career as an actress, while her father, Kazahana Sōsetsu, would remain her steadfast support. Moreover, this mission gave Midorima a new realization—changing the course of a familiar story was actually quite rewarding.
After this mission, the proficiency of various functional zones in the [Cell Laboratory] had also significantly improved:
- [Catalysis Chamber]: 95%
- [Activation]: 95%
- [Conversion Chamber]: 80%
- [Analysis Lab (Ninjutsu)]:
- A-rank: 10%
- B-rank: 30%
- C-rank: 50%
Most of his battles had been against Snow-nin, who primarily used Ice Release—a kekkei genkai only effective in the frigid climate of the Land of Snow. As such, their techniques had little reference value. Even if he deciphered a few jutsu, they would be unusable elsewhere.
Ironically, Midorima had once had the chance to analyze "Chidori"—when he accidentally grazed its chakra during combat. However, the trace amount of chakra was too minuscule to complete the breakdown. Had he succeeded, wielding "Chidori" would have given him another trump card.
After dinner, Mei and Kurenai played in the snow, forming snowballs and engaging in a lively snowball fight.
Neither Konoha nor Kirigakure ever had this much snowfall.
In Midorima's memories from his past life, Kirigakure had never experienced heavy snow. That was probably why Mei was so exhilarated.
Zabuza, ever devoted to the way of the sword, had little interest in snow. Meanwhile, Asuma sat cross-legged under the eaves, smiling as he watched Kurenai play.
Kakashi brought over three cups of tea, placing them on the floor before personally handing one to Midorima.
"Thank you—really."
"No need for thanks. Without you, we wouldn't have completed the mission," Midorima replied with a laugh.
"No, I mean it." Kakashi flexed his arm, which still felt sore but no longer painful. "I never expected Kirigakure to have someone like you—skilled in medical ninjutsu yet formidable in combat. You're definitely going to be one of Kiri's pillars in the future."
Wait, wait, wait…
This praise was getting out of hand.
Midorima quickly waved his hands. "I'm just an ordinary Kiri-nin."
"No, I can tell the difference." Kakashi narrowed his eyes. "I've fought Kiri-nin before—some were stronger than you, but you're… different. Your techniques aren't the most powerful, but you seize opportunities with incredible precision." He paused. "I hope we never have to fight. But if we do, I won't hold back."
Midorima rolled his eyes. In the future, Kirigakure and Konoha weren't likely to engage in large-scale conflict, so the chances of them becoming enemies were slim. Still, hearing Kakashi say that left a bitter taste in his mouth.
"Of course, I'll do everything I can to avoid that." Kakashi smiled. "And I owe you a debt. If the chance arises, I'll repay it."
"No need for debts. As a medic-nin, I just did my job." Midorima took a sip of tea. "As for facing each other in battle, I doubt it'll happen. Both Konoha and Kiri need time to recover. Cooperation in the future is more likely than conflict."
"If that's the case, then that'd be great." Kakashi relaxed slightly. "If you ever come to Konoha for negotiations, I'll personally accompany you."
"That is, if Konoha is willing to trust us." Midorima sighed.
"I can't promise Konoha's trust, but… I'll make sure you get a chance to speak your mind."
Midorima stared at Kakashi in surprise. He hadn't expected this mission to earn him a promise from Kakashi—something rare indeed.
"Are we… friends?" Midorima asked.
"I suppose?"
"Then, as a friend, let me give you some advice."
"Hm?"
"In the future… be more selective with your reading. Not all books are worth your time. After all, a person's energy is limited."
Books like Make-Out Paradise? Better approach those with caution.
"A person's energy is limited…" Kakashi muttered thoughtfully.
Huh?
Midorima blinked. Was Kakashi focusing on the wrong part?
"Ah, here you are."
From down the corridor, Sōsetsu approached, holding his daughter's hand.
The two quickly stood, but Sōsetsu waved them off, signaling them to remain at ease.
Koyuki, upon seeing Zabuza, tensed slightly and hid behind her father. But when she spotted Mei and Kurenai playing in the snow, her excitement returned. After whispering to Sōsetsu, she dashed into the snow to join them.
"Your Majesty, I was just about to inform you—we'll likely depart the day after tomorrow," Midorima said.
"What? So soon?" Sōsetsu looked surprised.
"The village awaits our report. Staying too long wouldn't be appropriate," Midorima explained.
If not for Mei's injuries and exhaustion requiring an extra day of rest, he would have left even sooner.
The selection of the "Seven Ninja Swordsmen" was at stake. The sooner he returned to finalize matters, the better. Delaying further only invited complications.
"Very well, if you insist…" Sōsetsu retrieved a sealed letter from his sleeve. "This is a letter of gratitude for the Mizukage. Please deliver it to him."
Midorima accepted the letter—it wasn't thin.
Clearly, Sōsetsu had written at length, though the contents remained unknown.
The wax seal made it impossible to open without detection, and the Mizukage would undoubtedly scrutinize it. Given Sōsetsu's character, he wouldn't waste words on trivialities.
As Midorima tucked the letter away, Sōsetsu added, "Though some of Kiri's rogue-nin escaped, I've listed the confirmed names in the letter. For those unidentified corpses, I've included photographs. I hope this proves useful."
Midorima thanked him profusely, but Sōsetsu merely waved a hand. "Compared to what you've done for the Land of Snow, this is merely a few strokes of a brush. I only hope our nation can truly find peace."
Midorima nodded, his gaze drifting back to the snowfield—just as a snowball smacked him square in the face. Mei stuck out her tongue playfully before waving at him.
With a gentle push, Sōsetsu nudged Midorima into the courtyard, then tucked his hands into his sleeves.