Naruto-ReBorn as a Baker

Chapter 258: Flight Through the Night

The night sky stretched endlessly above as GrubGrub, transformed into a giant pink and gold bird, glided gracefully through the air. The stars twinkled like scattered diamonds against the dark canvas, providing a serene backdrop for the journey. Malik sat comfortably next to Kakashi, who, despite the brisk wind that whipped around them, was engrossed in his book, his eye never wavering from the page.

Malik watched him for a moment, impressed by Kakashi's ability to read in such conditions. The wind seemed to bend around him, a testament to his calm and focused chakra control. Malik kept his admiration to himself, his eyes drifting across the landscape below, bathed in the soft glow of the moonlight.

It was Kakashi who broke the silence that had settled between them. Setting his book aside, he turned to Malik with a thoughtful look. "It's quite something, isn't it? Traveling like this, high above the world."

Malik smiled, "It's peaceful. A nice break from the usual chaos down there." He gestured vaguely downward, towards the hidden landscapes passing beneath them.

Kakashi nodded, his visible eye crinkling in what Malik assumed was a smile. "You know, Shisui often spoke of enjoying moments like these. Said they were rare but cherished."

Malik's interest piqued, he leaned slightly towards Kakashi. "Shisui has a way of finding depth in simplicity. How long have you two known each other?"

"Years now," Kakashi replied, his tone reflective. "We've shared missions, faced losses, and found reasons to keep moving forward. She's more than just a comrade; she's a friend. One of the few who can follow my silence as well as my words."

Malik nodded, understanding the significance of such a bond, especially in their line of work. "And how did you react when you heard about our marriage?" he asked, genuinely curious about Kakashi's perspective on his relationship with one of his closest comrades.

Kakashi paused, the question drawing a rare, personal admission from him. "I was surprised, not by the commitment, but by the speed. You and Shisui seem different, yet profoundly connected. It's not my place to judge, but I was happy for her—happy she found someone who appreciates her complexities."

The conversation shifted as Malik considered Kakashi's words. "She speaks highly of you, you know. Says your guidance was instrumental in shaping her."

Kakashi's expression softened. "Shisui is like a force of nature—unstoppable, fierce, yet capable of incredible kindness. Any guidance I offered was merely to help her find her own path."

As the conversation flowed, Malik found himself discussing his own journey with Shisui, how they met under less than ideal circumstances, yet somehow found a synchrony that defied expectations. Kakashi listened, offering insights and anecdotes from his own experiences, weaving a tapestry of camaraderie that spanned different relationships and times.

"Marriage," Kakashi said after a pause, "is a journey of its own. With Shisui, you'll find it filled with unexpected moments. She's always been one to surprise those around her."

Malik chuckled. "I'm counting on those surprises. They make life interesting."

As they continued their flight, the conversation turned to their mission in the Land of Birds. Kakashi outlined their objectives, discussing strategies and potential complications. Despite the serious nature of their task, the atmosphere remained light, the bond of shared respect evident in their easy dialogue.

"About this 'Cursed Warrior'... ghost stories often have a kernel of truth, but they're wrapped in layers of mystery and fear," Kakashi mused.

"Exactly," Malik agreed. "And it's our job to unwrap those layers. Whether it's a ghost, a misunderstanding, or something else entirely, we'll find the truth."

Their dialogue drifted into planning, each man bringing his unique perspective and skills to the table. As GrubGrub continued to soar through the night, the two of them plotted and planned, their minds as synchronized as their flight path.

The night deepened around them, the stars wheeling overhead in their slow dance. Below, the world seemed a tapestry of shadows and whispers, the quiet peace of the flight belying the importance of their mission. Yet, as they neared their destination, both Malik and Kakashi felt prepared, their alliance strengthened by shared confidences and the quiet solidarity of the night sky.

 - - - sometime later - - - -

As GrubGrub soared through the endless night sky, the conversation between Malik and Kakashi flowed effortlessly, drifting from professional matters to more personal topics. The stars above provided a twinkling canopy, creating a serene atmosphere that was perfect for heartfelt discussions.

Malik, ever the provocateur, steered the conversation towards a more playful territory. "You know, Kakashi," he began with a mischievous glint in his eyes, "you missed quite the event at Shisui and my wedding. Even Sasuke showed up, dragged along by Naruto no less. And you should've seen Sakura—she was practically radiating happiness."

Kakashi, typically reserved, allowed a small smile to creep onto his face, his visible eye softening. "I heard it was quite the celebration. I must admit, my absence wasn't due to a lack of interest. Duties to the Hokage and village can be... all-consuming. But I'm glad to hear it was a joyful occasion."

Malik nodded, understanding the demands of Kakashi's role. "Shisui mentioned that. She seemed to understand, though I think a part of her missed having her old friend there."

Kakashi's expression turned contemplative. "Shisui and I have been through a lot. Missing her wedding wasn't a decision taken lightly. Please convey my apologies to her, though I suspect she knows me well enough to understand my reasons."

Malik chuckled, his tone lightening. "Will do, though I must ask, don't make the same mistake for my 'eventual' upcoming wedding with Sakura. I fear she might not be as forgiving as Shisui."

Kakashi raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Is that a formal invitation then?" he asked, half-teasing, half-serious.

"Absolutely," Malik responded with a broad grin. "It wouldn't be the same without you there, Kakashi. Sakura speaks so highly of you, and I think she'd be genuinely upset if her beloved sensei didn't make an appearance."

The Copy Ninja nodded solemnly, his tone sincere. "Then consider it a promise. I wouldn't miss it for the world. Sakura has been like a daughter to me, and witnessing her happiness on such a significant day is something I wouldn't miss."

The conversation shifted back to lighter topics, with Malik sharing anecdotes from various events and parties and Kakashi offering tactical advice interspersed with his own experiences. The camaraderie between them was evident, built on mutual respect and a shared understanding of the responsibilities that came with their roles.

As the night wore on, the distant lights of the Land of Birds began to appear on the horizon, signaling the nearing end of their journey. Malik glanced at Kakashi, a thoughtful look crossing his face.

"You know, it's rare to find someone who understands the weight of the decisions we have to make. This conversation... it's been refreshing," Malik admitted, his tone more earnest than before.

Kakashi nodded in agreement, closing his book and tucking it away. "Indeed, it has been. Despite the different paths we've taken—yours through magic and unconventional methods, and mine through the shinobi way—we have a lot in common. It's these moments of understanding that can bridge even the widest gaps."

The giant bird began its descent, the landscape below coming into sharper focus as they approached their destination. Malik and Kakashi prepared for landing, their minds ready for the mission ahead yet enriched by the shared journey and the bond it had reinforced.

As they touched down on the outskirts of the village, the first light of dawn began to break across the sky, casting a golden hue over the land. The night's conversation had set the stage for the collaboration that would be needed in the days to come, and both men stepped off GrubGrub feeling a renewed sense of purpose and camaraderie, ready to face whatever mysteries awaited them in the Land of Birds.

As Kakashi slipped away to attend to his duties, Malik found himself alone on the outskirts of the Land of Birds. The tranquil surroundings and the gentle rustle of leaves provided a serene backdrop for his thoughts. With a slight wave of his hand, Malik invoked his magic, rendering himself invisible to any passersby. It was a precaution, a moment to gather his thoughts and assess his surroundings without interruption.

Malik settled onto a grassy knoll overlooking the landscape, his eyes scanning the vibrant ecosystem that the Land of Birds boasted. Pulling out a small, intricately detailed scroll from his cloak, he laid it flat on the ground before him. The scroll shimmered under his touch, activating his Super Map skill—a sophisticated magical tool that allowed him to analyze and understand any terrain he encountered.

As he studied the map, Malik's eyes traced the lush greenery, the rolling hills, and the dense forests that made up the country. The map was not just a geographical representation; it was a gateway to understanding the very essence of the place. The Land of Birds was a haven for countless avian species, their chirping and singing adding a melodic layer to the natural beauty of the area.

The capital, as depicted on the map, was a marvel of defensive architecture. It featured multiple layers of moats and concentric rectangular walls that served both protective and aesthetic purposes. The clear, sparkling waters of the moats reflected the meticulous planning of the settlement, designed to harmonize with the natural environment. Each bridge that connected the settlement's sections was a testament to the ingenuity and unity of the community.

Malik's focus deepened as he utilized the Pathfinding aspect of his skill. He plotted potential routes through the country, considering not just the physical paths but also the implications of each choice. His magic allowed him to identify the fastest, safest, and most scenic routes, providing invaluable insight into the strategic layout of the land.

His attention then shifted to the Terrain Summon Adaptation feature of his map skill. With a flick of his finger, he conjured an image of GrubGrub, considering how the creature's capabilities could be optimized for the varied landscapes of the Land of Birds. From soaring over dense forests to navigating the intricate moat systems, Malik ensured that his magical companion could handle any challenge that the terrain might present.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the land, Malik engaged the Historical Viewing feature. His fingers hovered over the map, touching specific locations to reveal snippets of the area's past. He saw glimpses of ancient battles, peaceful eras of prosperity, and the slow, steady growth of the villages. Each vision was a puzzle piece, adding depth and context to his understanding of the Land of Birds.

Finally, Malik activated the Map-Based Clairvoyance function. This powerful feature transformed the map into a dynamic tool, providing real-time insights into current events and notable figures within the region. As he concentrated, the map's surface rippled, and images of bustling marketplaces, serene gardens, and vigilant guards flickered into view. It was as if he were watching the land through the eyes of a bird soaring high above.

Content with the wealth of information gathered, Malik rolled up the scroll and rose from his seated position. "An't no way, I spent the whole day looking at a map." he said to himself as he stretched his tired body.

The night had deepened, and the stars were bright in the clear sky. With a renewed sense of purpose and a deep appreciation for the land he was about to traverse, Malik prepared to rejoin Kakashi. The knowledge gained from his Super Map skill had not only equipped him with practical information but had also deepened his connection to the Land of Birds—a place of natural beauty and complex history, now slightly less mysterious thanks to his magical prowess.

Stepping forward, Malik allowed his invisibility to fade, his form gradually appearing as if woven from the night air itself. With a confident stride, he set off to meet Kakashi, ready to share insights and discuss strategies for their mission. The journey through the Land of Birds was just beginning, and Malik was more prepared than ever to face whatever challenges lay ahead. "Time to get everyone's attention."

= = = = Somewhere Malik is not = = = =

Deep within the shadows of a dimly lit chamber in the daimyō's private quarters, the atmosphere was thick with tension and quiet resolve. The room, ornately decorated with ancient tapestries and silk hangings, held a palpable sense of mourning and unspoken vows. At the center of this somber ambiance sat Toki, disguised as her late brother, Sagi. Her features, illuminated faintly by the soft glow of lantern light, bore the heavy weight of grief and determination.

Sagi had been a figure of gentle authority, with jaw-length blackish-purple hair and piercing black eyes that reflected a soul deeply connected to the land he ruled. His typical daimyō attire, a symbol of his status, had always draped elegantly around his slender frame, marking him as a leader devoted to his people.

Toki, however, now bore his guise, her expression mirroring the heart-shaped face and thin eyebrows of her beloved brother. She had meticulously adopted his vocal mannerisms and kept her hair concealed beneath a traditional headdress, ensuring that even the closest of her courtiers could not discern the truth at a glance. Her transformation was not just physical but spiritual, as she channeled Sagi's presence in every word and gesture, driven by a fierce need to exact justice for their family's untimely demise.

The room fell into a heavier silence as Toki, in her role as Sagi, paced slowly before an ancient, lacquered desk. Her movements were fluid yet carried a somber grace, each step a testament to her resolve.

"I will not let their deaths be in vain," she whispered into the quiet, her voice a soft echo of Sagi's, filled with a sorrowful determination. "Those responsible will face the justice they so ruthlessly denied my brother and father."

Toki had grown up in a world framed by the tranquil beauty of the Land of Birds, her childhood days spent alongside Sagi and their loyal friend Chishima by the serene lake, watching egrets soar. Those memories, once bright with the laughter and innocence of youth, were now shadowed by the pain of loss. After Sagi's death, which followed closely on the heels of their father's assassination, Toki had been on the brink of despair. It was only the spectral visitation of her brother's spirit that halted her from stepping into the abyss of her grief. He had left her his broken pocket watch, a symbol of time lost and promises unkept.

Determined to unearth the conspiracy that had led to such devastating losses, Toki assumed Sagi's identity and created the guise of the Cursed Warrior. This spectral figure became her instrument of investigation—a silent observer moving through the shadows of the political landscape, gathering secrets and uncovering lies.

Now, as she stood in the quiet of her quarters, Toki's thoughts were interrupted by the soft rustling of silk. She turned to see Chishima, who had been her steadfast support through these turbulent times. His expression was one of concern mixed with admiration for the strength she displayed.

"Toki," he began, using her true name with a reverence that acknowledged both the woman and the daimyō she had become, "you must also consider the future. Vengeance will not rebuild the bridges that have been burned."

Toki's gaze softened, the fierceness in her eyes giving way to a momentary vulnerability. "I know, Chishima. Once justice is served, I will lay down these burdens. For now, I must continue, for the sake of our land and its people."

Her resolve reaffirmed, Toki turned back to the window, looking out over the land she was sworn to protect. The night was still, the stars above reflecting in the calm waters of the lake where she and Sagi had once played. The Land of Birds, peaceful under the night sky, remained unaware of the silent battles its daimyō fought in the name of peace and justice.

As she stood there, her figure silhouetted against the pale moonlight, Toki embodied the dual essence of grief and leadership, her heart forever tied to the past but her eyes fixed on the horizon, ready to lead her people into a future where such tragedies would never repeat.