Chapter 43: Memories of the Land of This Country
"Oh, now that you mention it, you do look familiar!" The Daimyo of the Land of This Country exclaimed in realization, chewing on a piece of sushi as he spoke.
"I have been here before," Yuji admitted with a humble smile. "It was right after completing an escort mission. I decided to participate in the Military Arts Tournament while I was here."
"That's right! I remember now—you were the second-place winner in the swordsmanship division, weren't you? Shinzai Yuji. I didn't recognize you at first, but you've grown so much since then!"
The Daimyo's cheerful recognition of Yuji's past brought a grin to the latter's face. Pleased, the Daimyo popped another piece of sushi into his mouth.
"I didn't expect you to remember," Yuji said. "Back then, I was still a little hot-headed. Speaking of which, about this year's tournament—"
"Go ahead and participate," the Daimyo interrupted with a casual wave of his hand. "I'd love to see the prowess of Konoha ninjas again. Just be sure to remove your forehead protectors to avoid exposing your identities."
Receiving the Daimyo's permission, Yuji's face lit up with gratitude. Bowing deeply, he replied, "Understood. I'll make sure they memorize the rules. You can count on us."
"I have no doubt about the reliability of Konoha ninjas. The tournament begins tomorrow, and even the most talented warriors from my army will be competing. For now, take the day to rest and enjoy the sights of our country."
"We appreciate your generosity, Daimyo-sama. With your leave, we'll take our leave now."
With that, Yuji led the group out of the courtyard.
---
Once they were out of earshot, Raido could no longer contain his excitement. "Sensei, sensei! Will there be a lot of skilled swordsmen in this tournament?"
Yuji chuckled lightly. "There will be a few, I suppose."
The instructor's nonchalant response only made Raido more eager. His eyes sparkled with anticipation, but he quickly ran out of questions to ask. Instead, he nudged Genma for answers.
Genma, unhurried as always, asked Yuji, "Sensei, was this tournament the reason we hurried here?"
"What do you think?" Yuji replied with a sly grin, leaving Genma slightly puzzled. The subtle joy on Yuji's face hinted that there was more to the story than he was letting on.
Deciding not to press further, Genma changed the subject. "Sensei, is there a place nearby that sells ninja tools?"
"For the war?" Yuji asked.
Genma nodded. Yuji fell silent for a moment, seemingly lost in thought.
When they exited the palace, Yuji swiftly leaped onto a nearby rooftop, scanning the area before hopping back down to the group.
"It's been a while since I was last here, so I almost forgot, but I believe there's a weapon shop in that direction," he said, pointing toward an area where more men seemed to gather.
Before the team could decide their next steps, Yuji clapped his hands together. "But first, it's lunchtime. Let's grab something to eat before heading to the shop."
"Lunch? Let's go! I can't wait any longer!" Noma exclaimed, dashing off with surprising speed, leaving the group in the dust.
"Wow, Sensei runs so fast—it's almost unfair!" Guy blurted out before kicking up a cloud of dust as he chased after him.
Yuji chuckled at their enthusiasm. "This street is the food district. Let's find something delicious."
---
The enticing aromas wafting through the air made it hard for the team to focus. While Raido fantasized about discovering new culinary delights, Ebisu wandered off with a goofy grin, seemingly in pursuit of something interesting. Washi followed more hesitantly, while Genma and Kurenai lingered behind.
Genma, however, was preoccupied. Memories from his past life began surfacing as they wandered through the Land of This Country. He recalled its role in the anime: this nation was at war with the neighboring Land of That Country. While the Land of This Country ultimately triumphed, Genma knew better than to let his guard down. War, no matter the scale, was never something to take lightly.
He also remembered the peculiar Military Arts Tournament and its counterpart, the Gastronomy Competition. These events were celebrated with great enthusiasm, offering participants the chance to showcase their talents in combat and cuisine.
"Genma? You've been quiet," Kurenai said softly, drawing him out of his thoughts.
"Ah, sorry. I got lost in thought," he admitted. "Let's catch up with the others. Oh, Sensei, you're still here?"
Yuji smiled knowingly. "I was about to leave, but your unusual behavior piqued my curiosity."
"Just thinking about some things," Genma replied vaguely. Then, noticing Kurenai's hand on her stomach, he asked, "Sensei, is there a good ramen shop nearby? Can you take us there?"
"Ramen, huh? You seem to know a lot about the local cuisine," Yuji remarked.
"Just rumors about how good the ramen here is," Genma said with a sheepish grin.
Yuji's stomach growled audibly, cutting his speculation short. "Fine, let's go. I'm starving too."
As they walked, Genma turned to Kurenai. "Why did you wait for me earlier?"
"So I shouldn't wait for you next time and leave you all alone?" Kurenai retorted, puffing her cheeks in mock anger. She pulled her hand away from his, but Genma quickly apologized.
"I was just worried you might get hungry. I'm sorry, Kurenai."
His sincerity melted her irritation, and before they knew it, their hands were intertwined again. Their growing bond was a quiet comfort amidst the chaos of their ninja lives.
---
By the time Genma snapped out of his thoughts, they were seated at a ramen shop. In front of him was a steaming bowl of ramen, topped with four thick slices of chashu, swirls of naruto, and a medley of other toppings. The rich aroma made his mouth water.
"Thank you, Kurenai," Genma said. "I'll pay for the meal."
"Mmm, this is so good! I want another bowl!" Kurenai exclaimed, already halfway through her food.
"Sure, I'll order for you," Genma said with a chuckle, grateful for the moment of peace amidst their busy mission.
End of Chapter 43