NOVEL NEXT Chapter 38: New Mission
Naruto was sprawled on the couch in Tsunade's office, his eyes fixed on an imaginary point on the ceiling. His thoughts wandered between his recent training sessions and his ongoing research on fuinjutsu. Still, he felt like something was missing—a greater challenge, perhaps, or a deeper sense of purpose.
The sound of the door opening abruptly snapped him back to reality. Kakashi entered, followed by Sai and Sakura. The three greeted the Hokage respectfully before glancing at Naruto.
"Still as laid-back as ever, I see," Kakashi remarked with a hint of amusement as he noticed Naruto's slouched position.
Naruto didn't respond immediately, letting out a sigh instead. Sakura crossed her arms and added, "Looks like someone's having a hard time getting back to work."
Naruto slowly turned his head toward her, his expression unimpressed. "And you still seem to have a knack for saying unnecessary things, Sakura."
Sakura frowned, but before she could retort, Tsunade's authoritative tone cut through the room.
"Enough! Let's get down to business. I have a mission for you."
All eyes turned to her. Naruto sat up slightly, curious but not particularly enthusiastic.
Tsunade picked up a scroll from her desk and unrolled it. "Your mission is to escort a transport belonging to one of the region's wealthiest merchants to Kumo."
Naruto frowned and sat up completely. "Escorting a merchant? Seriously? If this guy's so rich, why not just hire his own guards? Why bother us ninjas?"
Tsunade's gaze remained steady. "He does have guards, Naruto. But several of his convoys have been attacked recently, and he suspects these attacks are the work of well-organized groups or mercenaries. That's why he's requested our help."
Naruto groaned, crossing his arms. "Great, we're babysitters now."
Sai, who had been silent until now, added with his usual artificial smile, "Maybe they want someone who actually knows how to fight."
Naruto shot him a look. "You don't count. You're just here to look pretty."
Sai opened his mouth to reply, but Kakashi intervened before the conversation could escalate.
"Calm down, you two. Tsunade-sama, do you have more details on these attacks?"
Tsunade nodded. "According to the information gathered, the convoys are being targeted in a mountainous region near Kumo's border. The attackers seem well-organized, but their identities remain unknown. Your mission is simple: ensure the transport's safety and, if possible, identify the culprits."
She rolled up the scroll and looked at them. "Any questions?"
Kakashi shook his head. Sakura did the same, though her expression showed a hint of apprehension. Naruto just shrugged.
"Good," Tsunade concluded. "Meet at the south gate by noon. Good luck to all of you."
The team exited the office after a brief salute.
---
As they descended the building steps, Kakashi turned to his team.
"We'll meet at the south gate by noon. Use the time to prepare."
Naruto raised a fist in mock victory. "Finally, some good news! I've got time to eat before this annoying mission."
Kakashi smiled faintly under his mask. "Enjoy it, Naruto. We'll likely have a long journey ahead."
Naruto quickly disappeared, leaving Sai, Sakura, and Kakashi behind.
---
Back home, Naruto glanced at his closet. He ensured his gear was in good condition and his weapons were properly organized. Satisfied, he headed to his kitchen and prepared a quick meal.
"Finally, some peace," he muttered as he sat down to eat.
As he chewed absentmindedly, his thoughts drifted back to the mission. He wasn't thrilled about escorting a merchant, but something told him this wouldn't be as simple as it seemed.
---
By noon, Naruto arrived at the south gate, where Kakashi, Sai, and Sakura were already waiting. A large cart drawn by two horses was stationed nearby, surrounded by several guards.
The merchant, a middle-aged man with a prominent belly and luxurious clothing, greeted them jovially.
"Ah, my esteemed protectors!" he exclaimed. "I'm counting on you to ensure my safety and that of my goods."
Naruto rolled his eyes, muttering under his breath, "Great. And here I was hoping for an exciting mission..."
Sakura heard his comment and shot him a stern look.
Kakashi, ever composed, approached the merchant and exchanged a few words to clarify the final details. Once the preparations were complete, the team took their positions around the cart.
"Alright," Kakashi declared. "Let's move out. Stay vigilant."
Naruto walked alongside Sai, while Sakura positioned herself at the rear. They left Konoha under the midday sun, unaware of the challenges awaiting them on the road.