The next moment, Jinghang had already appeared in Xuechi Gaojin's room on Jiyue Island. When he had visited with Maki, Jinghang had given him a marked kunai for safe retreat after the mission's completion.
"Greetings, Kazekage-sama."
Xuechi Gaojin immediately bowed. He didn't seem surprised by Jinghang's sudden arrival.
Jinghang stood on the bedside table and looked around.
Huh? Why is there a kid in this room? That bastard Gaojin! How does he have such preferences at such a young age!
But when Jinghang saw the child's appearance clearly, he immediately broke into a delighted smile.
The child looked about three or four years old, delicately carved like jade, with red lips and white teeth. His white long hair was casually tied in a topknot behind his head, and two red dots on his forehead were particularly striking—a proper little prince.
Isn't this young Kimimaro!
The only ruthless fighter in early Naruto who could steadily overpower Gaara, someone even Orochimaru prepared as his first choice for a body vessel. If not for his poor health and early death, he would have achieved great things in the future.
Regarding Kimimaro's health problems, many Naruto forums concluded it was a genetic defect. The Kaguya clan's Shikotsumyaku bloodline seemed to have some connection to the Ōtsutsuki, very likely a product of genetic misalignment.
A rare good shoot among chaotic bamboo—such an early death was truly regrettable. However, these problems weren't a big deal for current Sunagakure. The medical department and Silver Sand Pharmaceuticals' research capabilities were now unprecedentedly strong, plus they had three master healers: Tsunade, Bai Fei, and Chiyo. While the child was still young, resolving this defect wouldn't be difficult.
If this little guy was properly cultivated, the village would gain another powerful fighter in the future. You know, when this kid got serious, even Rasa wouldn't be his match.
Jinghang showed a kind smile and patted the child's head.
"Hello there, little friend."
The child seemed to enjoy Jinghang's touch and politely bowed.
"Hello, uncle."
Jinghang nodded with satisfaction.
"Such good manners."
Xuechi Gaojin hastily corrected him.
"You should call him Kazekage-sama."
Jinghang waved his hand, giving Xuechi Gaojin a "don't worry, I understand" look.
"It's fine, calling me uncle is good. Little friend, what's your name? Where are you from?"
"My name is Kimimaro. I'm from... Uncle Xuechi rescued me from the dungeon."
"Oh my, imprisoned in a dungeon at such a young age—how pitiful. Look how thin this child is. Gaojin, get the child something to eat."
...
Children can't stay up late. After eating something and chatting with Jinghang for a while, Kimimaro soon fell into deep sleep.
During this time, Xuechi Gaojin had been too nervous to interrupt. Jinghang gave him a look suggesting they go outside to talk. The two slowly withdrew and closed the door.
"Sir, I didn't mean to complicate things. It's just that this child has exceptional talent, I..."
"You did fantastic!"
Jinghang excitedly patted Xuechi Gaojin's shoulder.
"The greatest gain from your Mist mission isn't stirring up internal strife in Hidden Mist—it's this child!"
"Ah?!"
He had expected Kazekage-sama to criticize him for meddling, but never expected such an attitude.
Jinghang pondered for a moment.
"We can't stay here. I'll immediately take you and the child to Yuexi Peninsula. After you return, drop all your work and personally take the child back to the village as quickly as possible. Hand him over to Elder Chiyo and Tsunade for a comprehensive physical examination. This child has physical defects, but it's not a big problem—it can be treated..."
"Ah?!"
Xuechi Gaojin was completely bewildered. He hadn't expected Kazekage-sama to value the child so highly.
"Ah what? Are there any difficulties?"
Jinghang was somewhat displeased.
"No... no difficulties, it's just that the Kaguya clan uprising is imminent, I should keep watch..."
"Sigh, what's worth watching about those idiots? If they die, they die."
When you have a BMW, why want a bicycle? He never expected the Kaguya clan to accomplish anything anyway. Those rebellious bones weren't as precious as Kimimaro.
"Also, Maki-sama..."
Xuechi Gaojin said.
"Damn, I almost forgot about him. Where is he?"
"Upstairs."
"What's he doing?"
"He's... doing... that thing."
Jinghang's eyes widened.
"It's been this long and he's still...! He's really something!"
Jinghang gave a thumbs up.
"I'll go up and give him a few words. Wait here for a moment."
————————————————
Suddenly, the entangled Maki caught a familiar scent of rust and felt a sudden chill of alarm.
Maki slowly got up and said lazily,
"You sleep for a while, I'm going to take a shower."
"Mm."
Tsukihime murmured in response.
Maki nonchalantly picked up his underwear, draped it over his shoulder, and walked toward the bathroom.
After quickly rinsing off, Maki unusually dressed completely and pulled out a mask and a wax pill from his ninja pouch.
Putting on the mask, Maki gently opened the bathroom door and carefully looked toward the bed. All four were still sleeping. He applied slight pressure with two fingers, crushed the wax pill, and inconspicuously tossed it toward the bed. Immediately, a sweet floral fragrance began spreading throughout the room.
...
"All taken care of?"
Jinghang leaned against the wall, speaking with annoyance.
"Don't worry, Kazekage-sama. Silver Sand's sleeping smoke is top quality. They won't wake up for at least two hours."
Maki laughed.
Jinghang looked Maki up and down, noting his haggard appearance, and shook his head with disgust.
"Commander Maki, you must take care of your body. If you die in the line of duty because of this, I wouldn't know how to write your compensation report!"
Maki embarrassedly touched his forehead where no sweat existed.
"Don't worry, Kazekage-sama. In my youth, thanks to Second Kazekage-sama's kindness, he taught me some methods of prolonged combat. Never mind four—even eight wouldn't be a problem."
"Bah! How dare you slander Kazekage-sama! Believe it or not, I'll assign you to guard his tomb!"
Jinghang spat at Maki.
"I wouldn't dare, I wouldn't dare."
Maki repeatedly begged for mercy.
Jinghang finally couldn't help but laugh.
"Fine, regardless, you did well with the Mist situation. Your vinegar dish plan basically succeeded too. Come back with me to receive your commendation!"
He was about to put his arm around Maki's shoulder, but Maki dodged away.
"Hm? What's the meaning of this?"
"Sir, please listen to me. I can't leave yet."
Maki said.
"Damn, you've developed a taste for it! I think not only do you have lifestyle problems, but your ideals and beliefs are wavering too! Believe it or not, I'll tie your ass up and drag you to Ryōhei right now!"
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