Naruto: The Mist Within-Chapter 109 - 108: Shadows in the Mist

The Mizukage's office was wrapped in a heavy silence, broken only by the rhythmic scratching of a pen on parchment. Yagura sat behind his massive desk, his expression inscrutable as he studied the documents before him. The dim light of sunset filtered through the curtains, casting long shadows on the walls adorned with ancient symbols of Kirigakure.

"If you want Kirigakure to change," said Fujino, the councilor, his tone toeing the line between respect and insistence, "then you must prove that our value doesn't solely depend on Kekkei Genkai. We need a new image. One that inspires everyone, not just those with extraordinary abilities."

Fujino's words hung in the air like a whisper on the wind, leaving behind a trail of thoughtfulness. Yagura raised his sharp, gray eyes toward the councilor. "And who do you have in mind?" he asked, his tone concealing more curiosity than distrust.

A measured smile appeared on Fujino's face. "Momochi Zabuza. He's young, yes, but he has raw talent that, with proper guidance, could become vital for the village's future."

Yagura leaned back in his chair, interlacing his fingers before his face. He remained silent for a moment, his gaze drifting into the distance. "It will take years before that student can make a mark," he replied finally, though his thoughts wandered elsewhere.

What he says isn't entirely wrong. Yagura thaught.

Amid his musings, another name surfaced in his mind: Ren Mizutani. A young man without a Kekkei Genkai, yet his exceptional chakra control and unwavering dedication had garnered attention. Despite his modest background, Ren was proving himself to be much more than an ordinary student.

"As you wish, Mizukage-sama," Fujino concluded with a slight bow. His words were flawless, his posture impeccable. However, as he exited the office, a sinister smile crept across his face, unsettling in its implications.

Alone once more, Yagura stared at the door that had closed behind the councilor.

Fujino has been surprisingly cooperative lately, he thought, suspicion flickering across his features. But there's something about him I can't trust.

He pressed a hidden button on his desk, summoning two ANBU operatives who materialized from the shadows, their masks concealing their identities.

"Keep an eye on Councilor Fujino," Yagura ordered, his voice cold and sharp. "Make sure he doesn't notice."

The ANBU nodded silently before vanishing like smoke.

- - -

"Poof!" Another cloud of smoke dissipated into the air, followed by a deep sigh of frustration. Ren wiped a hand through his sweat-drenched hair, staring at the spot where his failed Shadow Clone attempt had just vanished.

This is the hardest jutsu I've ever tried, he thought, clenching his fists. Not because of the seals' complexity, but because of the precision needed to keep the chakra flows separate until the very last moment. I'm close, but it's like trying to grab mist with my hands.

Taking another deep breath, he sat down on the damp ground, letting the crisp morning air help him recover. He gazed up at the overcast sky, the ever-present fog of Kirigakure mirroring the haze in his thoughts. I can't keep this up. I can't show up exhausted for my meeting with Utakata.

He rose and headed toward the stream where he was scheduled to meet the young ninja. Upon arrival, he found Utakata seated on a rock, his graceful figure framed by the water's shimmering reflection. The man looked up, offering a calm nod and a faint smile.

"Ready for our sparring?" Ren asked, trying to hide his fatigue.

Utakata nodded and stood with effortless grace, shedding his cloak and draping it over a nearby branch. The two squared off, their movements fluid and harmonious, like a choreographed dance. Between exchanges of strikes, Ren recounted his recent promotion and his encounters with Shibuki and Tokinaga. Utakata listened intently, occasionally raising an eyebrow or offering a knowing smile.

"I didn't expect that," Utakata remarked, pausing to catch his breath. "You've drawn quite a bit of attention recently. But remember, Ren, standing out isn't always a good thing, especially in a village like ours."

Utakata's tone was calm, yet a shadow passed over his expression as he glanced toward the gray sky. Ren felt the weight of his words and nodded respectfully. "I understand," he replied earnestly.

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After a moment of silence, Ren gathered his courage to ask, "Do you have any advice for me? There's a technique I just can't seem to master..."

"What technique?" Utakata asked, tilting his head slightly.

"The Shadow Clone," Ren admitted, a hint of embarrassment creeping into his voice.

"Ah, interesting," Utakata replied, his enigmatic smile returning. He paused, his gaze drifting to the gently flowing stream beside them. "You know," he began, "sometimes, when you desperately search for something—like a misplaced object or a memory you can't quite grasp—the solution comes when you stop looking. Both the body and mind need time to internalize lessons. Let the knowledge settle."

Ren frowned slightly, finding the words vague. Yet, the more he thought about them, the more they resonated.

Maybe I really do need to give myself time. My body needs a break, and my mind needs the right connection.

As the two prepared to part ways, Utakata turned to Ren with a subtle smile. "I'll be away for a while, Ren. We'll resume our sparring sessions when I return."

Ren watched him walk away, his dark cloak swaying in the breeze, while Utakata's words echoed in his mind. As Ren slowly made his way home, he reflected on how crucial it was to balance hard work with patience.

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