The Mizukage Is Strong But Overly Cautious

Half a day had passed since Anbu's inspection, and the sun was beginning to set.

During this time, no one had come to visit Mizuki Ryosuke, and he was perfectly fine with that.

It gave him time to carefully plan his next move.

"Cough… cough…"

A hoarse coughing sound echoed from outside the ward, gradually approaching.

Mizuki Ryosuke, lying on his hospital bed, frowned slightly.

Who? This cough sounds even worse than my own injuries.

Then—

Knock, knock.

Just as Ryosuke finished complaining in his mind, a sharp, deliberate knock reached his ears.

"Come in."

A trace of curiosity flickered across Mizuki Ryosuke's face.

Who would visit him at this time?

Was it her?

For a brief moment, a graceful figure surfaced in his mind.

But he quickly shook his head.

No—at a time like this, everyone should be keeping her away.

No one should let her know anything about his current condition.

The door creaked open, and the visitor's face was revealed.

At that moment—

Mizuki Ryosuke almost sat up in shock.

"How could it be him?"

Even though he was caught off guard, the reality was undeniable.

Right before his eyes stood—

The Third Mizukage, Mizuki Taki.

The Third Mizukage's Arrival

"Mizukage-sama!"

Ryosuke exclaimed in feigned surprise.

But within moments, he regained his composure and carefully considered his response.

He had to act carefully.

First, he pretended to be startled.

Then, as if overcome with admiration, he attempted to sit up—only to collapse weakly onto the bed, as though too overwhelmed to even speak.

Life is like a stage… and it's all about acting.

The Mizukage's sudden visit was something Mizuki Ryosuke never anticipated, and he knew this moment was a test of his ability to maintain his façade.

"Cough… cough…"

"It's alright, Ryosuke."

"Stay down. No need to push yourself."

The Third Mizukage's voice was gentle and reassuring, his expression almost fatherly.

His light blue hair—once vibrant—was now streaked with gray, his complexion far too pale, giving him a fragile appearance.

Even through his calm demeanor, his entire body radiated exhaustion.

Unspoken Questions

But Ryosuke was no fool.

Mizuki Taki was not just any man.

He was the Third Mizukage—the ruler of Kirigakure, the one who held power over thousands.

So why had he come to visit a mere Chūnin?

There is no such thing as a visit without purpose.

Even if they belonged to the same bloodline, Mizuki Taki had never shown such concern before.

If anything, their relationship was far from harmonious.

So—

What was he really here for?

The Conversation Begins

"Ryosuke, you did well this time."

"Cough… cough… is your body alright?"

Mizuki Taki offered a warm smile as he praised him.

Yet, his persistent cough revealed just how weak his own health had become.

Hearing this, Mizuki Ryosuke immediately grasped the situation.

A fleeting moment of clarity flashed through his eyes.

So that's what this is about.

"Mizukage-sama, my injuries are nothing serious."

"You should take care of yourself as well."

Despite the thoughts racing through his mind, Ryosuke maintained the appearance of an eager, hot-blooded youth, brimming with admiration for his leader.

His gaze lingered on Mizuki Taki's figure.

Even up close, the Third Mizukage looked unassuming—like an ordinary man one might find next door.

Yet, something was off.

His once-powerful aura had diminished, his breath sluggish, his long hair dull.

His entire presence reeked of fatigue—as though he were suffering from an incurable illness.

Mizukage's True Intentions

"Ryosuke, you did well this time. The village and the clan will not overlook your contributions."

"Cough… cough…"

"This isn't a formal setting—just call me Patriarch."

Despite his weakened state, Mizuki Taki maintained an approachable demeanor, as if speaking to a cherished family member.

Ryosuke Plays Along

"Thank you for your praise, Patriarch!"

"It's my greatest honor to serve the village!"

Ryosuke's expression lit up with excitement, fully embracing Mizuki Taki's words.

He knew better than to reject an olive branch from the Mizukage—so he played the role expected of him.

Even if he didn't believe it.

The Unspoken Warning

"Haha…"

Mizuki Taki chuckled softly.

"I'm relieved to see your dedication."

Then—

His smile faded just slightly.

"Ryosuke… I know you must be wondering."

"Why am I here?"

Ryosuke tilted his head, feigning confusion.

Mizuki Taki, of course, saw right through him.

But he answered anyway.

"Cough… cough…"

"I haven't been well lately, so I came to the hospital for a check-up."

"Ha… ha… you must think this is a bit absurd, no?"

Even as he laughed, his expression remained unreadable.

And that—more than anything—made Ryosuke uneasy.

A Careful Response

"You're mistaken, Patriarch."

"You have given everything for the village. I believe everyone holds you in the highest regard."

Mizuki Ryosuke's voice was steady and full of admiration—the perfect display of loyalty.

Mizuki Taki's eyes narrowed.

Then—

"Hahaha!"

"Good. Keep working hard."

"Even Lianben wanted to see you, but I stopped her."

"You understand the current state of the clan, don't you?"

The meaning behind his words was clear.

Ryosuke's role in the clan was growing.

And with that came responsibility.

Mizuki Taki rose to his feet, not lingering any longer than necessary.

He offered a few parting words about resting well before heading for the door.

Just before leaving—

He turned back.

For a brief second, his eyes locked onto Ryosuke's, carrying a meaning too deep to decipher.

Then—he was gone.

The Hidden Shadows

The moment Mizukage-sama left, Mizuki Ryosuke sensed them immediately.

Four—no, five—highly trained shinobi withdrew from their positions around the ward.

Anbu.

Mizukage never traveled alone.

And these warriors had only one mission—

To ensure his absolute safety.