Chapter 475: Fixed Price, No Bargaining

Unfortunately, this is impossible. Shinki will not easily intervene in the war of the Cloud Village, even if he is paid.

If he feels annoyed, the Third Raikage can only complain.

Because he knows that Shinki will not easily join the war.

Besides, what's wrong with sending caravans to each other?

Even if it is a waste of talent, it is Konoha's own business and has nothing to do with the Cloud Village.

Like Yagura, the Third Raikage also ordered the people of his village to avoid the caravan escorted by Shinki and to allow them to pass without issue.

Even if the caravan escorted by Shinki bypasses the Water Country and enters the Mist Village, it doesn't matter. The Third Raikage will not offend Shinki over such matters.

Even if Shinki cannot be pulled onto the battlefield, at least he cannot be pushed to the enemy's side.

The caravan escorted by Shinki sailed through the waters of the Water Country without any obstruction or inspection and arrived at the Mist Village smoothly.

Just like that?

The people in the caravan felt like they were dreaming.

You should know that even in peacetime, entering the Mist Village usually requires multiple inspections. The xenophobia of the Mist Village is no joke; they could turn your goods upside down during their checks.

But today, they came in unimpeded, without any questions or checks. They arrived at the Mist Village smoothly.

"Long time no see."

"Indeed, long time no see."

Shinki didn't expect Yagura to be so eager to see him. Yagura arrived shortly after Shinki settled down in the inn.

After observing the surroundings, Shinki noticed that the Mizukage's guards were stationed far away.

"It seems that the security of the Mist Village has improved a lot."

The last time Shinki visited the Mist Village, the place was in chaos. Even Yagura faced attacks when he went out. This time, Yagura came to the inn alone, leaving his guards outside.

Listening to Shinki teasing him about what happened on his previous visit, Yagura maintained a blank expression, as if he didn't hear the remarks.

Another one with no sense of humor.

Ōnoki and the Third Raikage are more interesting. The Third Kazekage had a poker face, and now even Yagura seems to be turning into one.

"So, what does the Mizukage want to discuss?"

A poker face, huh? Fine. Let's keep this business-like. If you have something to say, say it quickly; I need rest.

"..."

Seeing Shinki's impatient demeanor, Yagura's mouth twitched.

Just as Shinki was waiting for him to continue, Yagura rubbed his face and said apologetically:

"I'm sorry. Because of my height and face, even as the Fourth Mizukage, many in the village are still unconvinced by me. A serious and old-fashioned demeanor saves me a lot of trouble."

It's not that I, Yagura, don't respect you, Shinki—it's just a habit.

At this point, Yagura resembled the young clan leader, Hiashi Hyuga. Both restrained their natural temperaments to appear dignified and reliable, maintaining an expressionless facade for so long that it affected their personalities.

Shinki looked at Yagura, surprised. After a moment of silence, he raised his thumb.

You're impressive. Truly.

"Just say what you came to say."

Seeing you like this makes me feel awkward too. Let's just get to the point.

"..."

Yagura hesitated briefly but ultimately got to the point.

"The Mist Village needs information on the perfect Jinchūriki—and so do I."

"Give me money," Shinki replied decisively, raising his hand.

If you want the information, pay for it. This is a transaction, not charity.

As for why Yagura didn't get the information from Ōnoki, Shinki didn't care to speculate.

Promises between villages often mean nothing when weighed against self-interest.

Ōnoki may have withheld the information out of spite, but his actions indirectly benefited Konoha by creating an opportunity for them to profit again.

Shinki silently praised Ōnoki. You're a good person, old man.

"Alright," Yagura agreed without hesitation. For the village's sake, the price was acceptable.

As for the Mist Village's strained finances, Yagura didn't mind. It wasn't his fault the finances were in such a state.

The price was fair—Shinki didn't exploit the Mist Village's circumstances despite Konoha's need for funds.

"This is a standardized price. Even the Cloud Village paid the same amount."

Yagura nodded. "I trust you wouldn't lie about that."

After completing the payment, Yagura left decisively, not bothering with pleasantries.

What's his hurry? Shinki wondered. Maybe Yagura wanted to return immediately to review the information.

After Yagura left, Pakura entered the room, picking up the untouched water cup.

"I think Yagura's a bit strange," she remarked.

"It's not just him. Most people in the Mist Village are peculiar—both in appearance and personality," Shinki sighed.

Pakura shrugged and dropped the topic. They were only tasked with escorting the caravan through the Water Country.

Whether Yagura was strange or not had nothing to do with them.