So far, our journey has not encountered any obstacles. We spent the night in an empty house halfway through the journey as it was getting dark.
I was also on my guard on the road, I didn't want anything to happen if I wasn't prepared. I even wore my anti-genjutsu glasses at all times, as I also added a chakra sensor seal.
Ise said that if we hadn't brought the carts, we might have reached Hidden Rain Village by now, but since we had brought the goods, it would have taken at least two days to get there.
On the second day of our journey, as we approached Hidden Rain Village, we saw a group of figures in the distance. They were moving fast as they approached us.
"It seems we have company," I murmured to Ise, my eyes narrowing slightly.
Ise nodded his head in agreement.
The figures drew closer and we could make out their faces. It was a group of ninjas from the Hidden Rain Village.
"Halt!" One of them shouted, raising a hand. "Who goes there?"
We hadn't even reached the gate and they were already coming towards us.
"Merchants," Ise called back, "We are bringing goods for the Daimyo-sama!"
"To meet the Daimyo-sama, you must have permission." the ninja said firmly.
"Ah, I see," Ise responded calmly, "But we're from a small village. We don't have any connections or permission to meet the Daimyo-sama."
The ninja looked at us suspiciously. "What kind of goods do you have?"
"Healthy water." Ise said with confidence.
The ninja's eyebrows furrowed, "Healthy water?" He repeated, sounding skeptical.
"Yes," Ise said, "Water that has been purified and improved using our village's secret technique."
"We need to do a check first." The ninja said, gesturing for us to stop the cart.
Ise looked at me and I nodded my head in agreement. "Very well." Ise replied.
The ninja checked our goods, looking through the gallons curiously. "This is... quite something." he murmured.
"We wanted to try it out to make sure that it wasn't poisonous." The ninja said.
Ise looked at me and I nodded calmly. "Sure," Ise said, "It's only natural for you to check."
Ise gave the ninja a glass filled with the water from one of the gallons. The ninja took a sip and his expression didn't change at all.
"Feels like plain water to me." the ninja commented, passing the glass back to Ise.
"That's because it's all natural," I interjected, stepping forward. "Our village has found a way to purify water that doesn't change its taste, but greatly improves its quality. We believe the Daimyo-sama would be quite interested in such a valuable commodity."
The ninja studied me for a moment before speaking, "You're pretty confident for a kid. What's your name?"
"Haruto," I said simply, maintaining eye contact.
The ninja's eyes narrowed slightly. "Alright, Haruto. But we can't just let you through without verification. You and your goods will be escorted to the village for a proper inspection."
I thought it was over, but apparently we're going to the village first. We were escorted to Hidden Rain Village.
As we entered Hidden Rain Village. Despite the gloomy weather, the village was bustling with activity. The villagers looked at us with a mixture of curiosity and caution, probably not used to seeing new faces.
Well, every place I visit has the same atmosphere, which is gloomy.
But the buildings here are much nicer and look sturdier.
It's just that the building doesn't use paint. I think it's difficult because it rains all the time here and the surface of the wall you want to paint has to be dry.
"...."
Hm... Maybe this could be a new business idea, making paint. But how?
"...."
Unfortunately, I don't know the ingredients to make paint.
"...."
Well, I'll think about it later.
The ninjas led us to the local council building. The council members looked at us with curiosity and a hint of skepticism. They were probably wondering who we were and why we had the audacity to claim we had something the Daimyo would want.
The ninja escorting us explained a bit about our goods to them.
"So, you're saying that these gallons contain water that is cleaner and healthier than what we have here?" One of the council members asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Yes," Ise said confidently. "We believe that once the Daimyo-sama tries this water, he'll understand the value of our product."
The council members murmured among themselves, eyeing the gallons of water with a mix of skepticism and intrigue.
"How can you prove that this water is healthier? Do you have any documentation or seals of authenticity from the medical institution?" asked another councillor, crossing his arms.
"We don't have any proof from medical institutions, but I am a doctor and have observed and examined people who have taken it for a week." Ise took out his medical scroll and handed it to them, "These are the results of my examination."
The council members looked over the scroll with interest. "Impressive," one of them said, "But these are just your observations."
"That is true," Ise added, "But I can offer you a demonstration right now. If you allow us to show you the difference in water quality, I think you'll be convinced of its value."
The council members exchanged glances before one of them nodded. "Fine, go ahead."
Ise took two glasses from the cart, filling one with the water they used to drink and the other with water from one of our gallons. He handed the microscope glasses to the council members.
"Look at the water," Ise instructed, "You'll see the difference."
The council members took turns examining the water through the glasses, their expressions changing from sceptical to astonished. One of them, an older man with a stern expression on his face, took his time examining the samples. "This is... incredible," he finally said, handing the glasses back to Ise. "What was that little thing we saw? The impurities?"
"Yes, those are the bacteria and impurities." Ise replied with a smile.
The council members looked at each other. "Bacteria?" One of them murmured, clearly not a term they were familiar with.
"Microscopic organisms," Ise clarified.
"Organisms? They are living creatures? In our water?" The Council members looked at each other, their expressions a mixture of shock and disbelief.
"That's right." I said. "In the water we usually drink, there are many microscopic organisms that can make us sick. With our purification process, we eliminate those organisms." I added, "Of course not all bacteria are bad, there are also many bacteria that are beneficial to the body."
They were surprised by my explanation, "And you are?" One of them finally asked.
"His name is Haruto." Ise said proudly, "In fact, he is also a doctor."
The council members looked at me with admiration. "A young doctor with such knowledge." one of them mused.
"But, if what you say is true, why haven't we fallen ill? We have been drinking this water for a long time." A council member spoke up, his tone a mix of curiosity and skepticism.
"That's because you boil the water before you drink it, and by heating the water you can kill the bacteria in it." I said calmly.
"But if that's the case, why would you sell your water? When we can get water that is free of bacteria just by boiling it." A Council member questioned with a furrowed brow.
"The process of boiling water can be time-consuming and requires a constant supply of firewood or another heat source. Our gallons purify the water instantly and maintain the temperature," I explained, "What's more, this water also helps to keep you healthy. If you are sick, by taking medicine and drinking this water, you will recover quickly."
The council members nodded, impressed by the explanation. "But what makes your purification method better than what we already do?" The stern man inquired.
"The difference is in the way we purify the water," I replied, "Our method doesn't just kill the bacteria. It also improves the quality of the water, making it richer in minerals that are good for the body."
The council members leaned in, intrigued by what I had to say. "How do you do that?" one of them asked.
"Sorry, but that's a secret technique," Ise said with a smile. "We can't reveal that easily. But I can assure you that it's safe and effective."
The council members looked at each other, and after a moment's silence, the stern man spoke. "I see. You have convinced us of the necessity of this product. But we must still report this to the Daimyo-sama. Until then, you will be our guests."
"Thank you for your understanding." I said with a slight bow.
The council members nodded, and we were led to a guesthouse in the village. It was modest but comfortable.
We entered our respective rooms in the guesthouse, and as I lay on the futon. Well, I think there's a bed here, but it wasn't.
I took out my cursed seal book and checked the cursed seals. They were all fine, which was a relief. But it was strange that nothing had happened. Maybe we were just lucky.
And I can actually check on them with my seal glasses, which is much cooler, like the smart glasses in the modern world, or maybe like the Augma in SWORD ART ONLINE The Movie - Ordinal Scale.
Damn, maybe I can make this for the people in the village, especially the members of the village security patrol.
"...."
Or as a communication tool?
"...."
Of course it's possible, I'll make it later.
"...."
But I just tried to look it up in the book, and well, nothing happened. I thought there would be something like corrupt council members, high tax demands, asking for fees or council members who want ownership and the way this water is made by force.
Well, I thought maybe this time we would be up against the Hidden Rain Village or maybe the government of the Land of Rain. But it turns out none of that exists, or maybe it just hasn't happened yet.
I don't really understand the politics in this world, even the anime doesn't really show the political problems of the Daimyo government, there are some as I remember, but I didn't watch it because I thought it was boring at the time.
Well, my knowledge of politics is so shallow that if my life becomes a story, it is certain that I might not have any charm or speciality as an MC. Just like the anime Genjitsu Shugi Yuusha or Isekai Yakkyoku, they have expertise in their fields.
So what about me?
Nothing.
"...."
Ah, I'm disappointed in myself.
Why didn't I learn anything in my previous life? At least I have one skill I can use, whatever it is.
But what else can I do?
"...."
The rice has become porridge, all I can do now is add special chicken broth with shredded chicken, fried onion, celery, scallions, half-cooked egg and ground pepper to taste.
Once it's all mixed up, I just have to eat it and enjoy all the flavours of life.
It might not taste perfect, but that's life.
---|||---
-3rd POV-
"Are we just going to stand by and let them reap the profits?" One of the council members whispered.
Several of the Council members were gathered in a large and rather grand room. The ornate decorations hinted at the power and wealth that lay behind the scenes of Hidden Rain Village. They had finished their discussion with the doctor and the young doctor named Haruto. The water they had brought was indeed more special than anything they had ever seen, and their claims of its health benefits were backed up by the doctor's detailed medical scrolls.
"We cannot allow them to simply leave with their secret," said the Council leader, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "We must find a way to obtain it for ourselves."
"What about genjutsu? We can use the ninja in our village to do that." One of the council members suggested, his eyes gleaming with greed.
The Council leader nodded, "That might be an option. But we don't know whether the ninja will betray us or not, as you know, the ninja in this village are very loyal to Hanzo. If we can get Hanzo to cooperate in this, it will make things easier for us." Then one of the council members added, "Yes, it's unfortunate that Hanzo is too naive in such matters, he is drunk with idealism. But we must admit that he has loyal subordinates, and that's an obstacle for us."
"That's right, what's wrong with seeking personal gain for our own wealth? Even the Daimyo in this land doesn't really care about the condition of his people, it is the Daimyo himself who allows his territory to become a battleground because he is paid by other Daimyo. So why should we care?" Another council member spoke, his voice filled with self-righteousness.
"Indeed, we must think of ourselves. But let us not be hasty," one of the council members warned, his eyes sharp. "We must find a way to convince Hanzo to see our side. If we present this as an opportunity for the prosperity of the village, he may be more willing to listen."
"But can it happen? As we all know, Hanzo doesn't like to do bad things to people from the same country as himself." Another council member spoke up, worry etched into his face.
"What do you mean by doing bad things? We're doing it for the greater good of the village." replied one of the council members, his voice filled with feigned righteousness.
"The greater good," echoed the council members, "indeed. If we can get our hands on the secrets of their creation. We can gain wealth and power." His eyes glittered with ambition.
Everyone there nodded in agreement with what he said. But one of them, who looked young, didn't quite understand what he meant, so he asked, "I understand that we can get rich with this, but what does the power mean? How can we get the power?" He asked in confusion.
The Council members looked at the young man and sighed. "With wealth comes power, my dear. If we control the supply of such a valuable resource, we can influence the decisions of the village and even the Daimyo. We can push for policies that benefit us, and who knows, maybe even take over the village one day." He said with a sly smile.
The young council member nodded, understanding dawning on his face. "So, what's the plan?"
Those who heard his question could only sigh. "Yogomi-dono, it seems that you really should teach your nephew properly." One of the council members said, "Hahaha, that's right, Yogomi-dono." Added another, laughing.
The council member named Yogomi nodded his head then let out a long sigh, "Forgive my nephew, he is still young and lacks experience."
"Take it easy, he's still young. But should we just wait or should we do something first?" Another council member spoke up.
Those who heard that fell silent and thought for a moment.
"Hm... What if we use the old way, like women and drinks, when they are drunk we can try to get the secret out of them or we can even add drugs to the drinks?" A council member suggested with a smug look.
The room grew quiet again as they contemplated the idea. "That could work." Said one of the council members, stroking his chin.
"Hm... Isn't there a doctor among them?" Yogomi added, "Not to mention that the boy Haruto is also a doctor."
The other council members nodded, "That's a good point. We don't need to invite the boy called Haruto and we don't need to drug the doctor called Ise. We just need to get him drunk. But let us continue with the plan. We will invite them to dinner and try to win them over with our hospitality. During the meal, we will subtly probe for information."
"And what if they refuse?" The young council member named Yosumi asked, looking around nervously.
The Council member who lead the others looked at him calmly, "Then we shall find another way or use genjutsu on them, but now let us proceed with the dinner." He added, "If we can get it without Hanzo's help, we won't have to share the profits with him."
The council members nodded in agreement and started to plan the dinner.
-3rd POV end-
---|||---
It's boring, after checking their condition with my seal book I fell asleep for a while, then woke up and now just sit quietly staring at the rain-soaked window.
I thought I should do something, anything, to keep myself occupied.
"Oh! Now I remember." I exclaimed, suddenly remembering something.
I once thought, what if I strengthen all parts of my body permanently with Yang energy or physical energy.
But at that time I couldn't feel or control the Yang energy.
Well, actually it's still the same now, I can't do it.
I have also tried to strengthen all parts of my body with chakra, but I can't say it was successful because there was only a slight increase, how could I know?
I don't know if this is my innate power or my newly acquired power, because after I tried to get used to controlling the chakra inside my body, I could clearly feel the cells, muscles, bones and others.
What I mean by feeling is that, I really know that my muscle mass is a fraction of a percent different today than it was yesterday, or even how many red and white blood cells are in my body, don't ask me because I'm sure the author won't mention how many because he doesn't know himself.
"...."
It's just that I still don't have complete control over the inside of my body, I can manipulate the cells in my body, and even then it's only a few cells, not even hundreds.
"...."
So what I want to do this time is to make a Yang energy or physical energy absorbing seal on a piece of paper. It's not a Yang chakra, it's pure Yang energy, because a Yang chakra is a chakra with dense Yang energy in it. Then the Yang release uses the Yang energy with the help of the chakra. Well, that's my understanding.
But when I think about it, why didn't I make a seal to absorb yin energy or spiritual energy?
Wouldn't it be great if I had strong yang energy and yin energy?
Not only that, but my chakra reserves might also increase?
That's right.
"...."
Wait, if I get Yang energy, how can I control it?
Didn't I say that I can't control Yang energy yet?
"Hmm..." I mumbled.
How about a seal?
I can create a seal to help me control the Yang energy, so I can manipulate it to strengthen my body.
But I think it's quite complicated. I need to create the formula for the seal, and I don't know where to start.
"...."
Or maybe I can make a seal to help me train my Yang energy, just enough to control it, or maybe more?
"...."
That's quite possible, if that's the case then the seal formula is simply to train to move Yang energy and count the amount of Yang energy present.
"...."
Then I can start. But first, it seems that this boredom is driving me a little crazy, because I'm monologuing to no one in particular. Wait, am I monologuing right now?
"Hm..." I mumbled.
Aren't monologues what theatre is all about?
I don't really know what a monologue is, I just know that a monologue is an artistic performance in which only one actor is involved. Then the actor stands alone on stage and talks about something without involving other actors.
So I'm on a stage?
"...."
And I am an actor?
"...."
So who is the audience?
"...."
Don't tell me that...
Well, my mind is too wild at the moment, I have important things to do first.