Some memories had already begun to blur for Ayaka Uzumaki, but those related to Konoha remained vivid and deeply etched in her mind. Her parents had sacrificed their lives to delay the enemy's advance, ensuring her escape. Before sending her off, they had sternly warned her: never trust the ninja from Konoha and never reveal her abilities.
Ayaka's lineage differed from other members of the Uzumaki Clan. Her chakra and flesh possessed extraordinary vitality. As long as someone wasn't completely dead, consuming her blood or chakra could heal them. This ability was highly coveted and was a closely guarded secret, even among the Uzumaki Clan—known only to the clan head.
Despite years of hardship and wandering, Ayaka's life had recently taken a hopeful turn after meeting her benefactor. Her future finally seemed brighter. She had only faint memories of Kushina Uzumaki. They might have met once or twice during clan gatherings, but their interactions were fleeting and infrequent. If it weren't for 18's reminder, Ayaka would likely have forgotten about her altogether.
Ayaka looked up and asked, "18, does Lord Mirai have any instructions?"
"Sir has instructed you not to agree to any requests from Konoha. If they attempt to take you by force, I will eliminate them," replied 18, her voice calm, as though dispatching ANBU members was no different from swatting flies.
Killing Kushina Uzumaki might be challenging, but dealing with a few ANBU was well within 18's capability. After upgrading her weaponry and creating four mechanical sentinels equipped with energy conversion cores, she had the firepower to rival high-ranking ninja. Though these mechanical protectors lacked the flexibility and stamina of human ninjas, they were more than formidable in combat.
Ayaka nodded solemnly. "Understood. I won't go to Konoha."
During her time studying with the Uzumaki Trade Association, Ayaka had read extensively about various topics. Yet, one question constantly perplexed her: why hadn't Konoha come to Uzushio's aid when it was attacked? Uzushio bordered the Land of Fire, and Konoha even had a stationed force near the coastline of the Land of Water. If Konoha had acted, Uzushio might not have been destroyed, and the Uzumaki Clan wouldn't have faced near extinction. Only a few had managed to escape…
Due to her young age at the time, Ayaka's memories of those events were fragmented. What stood out, however, was how her parents had been absent for two full days before returning to send her away, battered and bruised. Those two days were likely when they fought to fend off the invaders. Unable to hold back the enemy, they had chosen to send Ayaka away.
"Learn to think!"
Hyuga Mirai's words echoed in her mind—a mantra often repeated during her training in medical ninjutsu and sealing techniques. Ayaka clung to these words, yet the more she thought about Uzushio's destruction, the more she suspected it wasn't as simple as it seemed.
When Ayaka learned that Kushina Uzumaki was coming, she felt uneasy. Despite her unease, she continued her routine of treating patients. Abruptly halting her work when Kushina arrived might arouse suspicion.
Though Ayaka sometimes doubted her intelligence, she excelled under pressure. Treating patients and receiving their gratitude brought her rare moments of joy, despite the occasional ill-intentioned individual. Most of her patients, especially the civilians in the Land of Fire's capital, were deeply grateful.
As the public face of the Uzumaki Trade Association, Ayaka used her medical skills to forge connections. The association's stellar reputation in the capital was largely due to her efforts. She often provided free treatments to civilians, deriving immense satisfaction from her current lifestyle—apart from the occasional dangerous task she was required to undertake.
If someone tried to take her away, forcing her to abandon her life and work here, Ayaka wouldn't stand for it.
---
The Land of Fire's capital was far more vibrant than Konoha, its prosperity unmatched. From street vendors to the clothing of passersby, everything fascinated Kushina Uzumaki as she entered the bustling city.
"What's that? A pastry? It looks delicious!" Kushina exclaimed, rushing to buy some food from a vendor.
"Lady Kushina…" one of the ANBU members trailing her called out, hurrying after her. While they couldn't restrict Kushina's behavior, they were responsible for her safety.
After purchasing the pastry, Kushina wandered through the marketplace. Soon, her hands were full of grilled squid, takoyaki, and red bean dumplings. While Konoha had similar food, Kushina felt everything here tasted much better.
Along the way, she stumbled upon a group of teenagers engrossed in a ninja game. Drawn in by their excitement, she joined their discussion enthusiastically.
However, her gaming skills were no match for the teenagers. After repeatedly losing and being teased, Kushina's fiery temper flared. She playfully knocked on their heads before running off, laughing freely.
"It's almost evening, Lady Kushina," a female ANBU member reminded her quietly as they regrouped.
"Oh no! I was having so much fun I forgot. Let's go!" Kushina clapped her hands and began heading toward the Uzumaki Trade Association.
The ANBU stationed on nearby rooftops remained silent and vigilant, following Kushina like shadows.
---
Despite its relatively short time in the capital, the Uzumaki Trade Association had firmly established itself through high-quality products and formidable security. Kushina was greeted by an opulent mansion—a testament to the association's success.
"Please announce my arrival. Kushina Uzumaki from Konoha wishes to meet the association's president," she declared confidently.
Initially, the guards at the gate prepared to dismiss the three women. However, hearing the name "Konoha" and noticing Kushina's shared surname with their president, they hesitated.
"Please wait here while I inform the president," one guard said, hurrying inside.
After a short wait, he returned and bowed respectfully. "Please, come in. Someone will escort you to meet the president."
(End of Chapter)
=========================================================
DROP THEM POWER STONES PLEASE
SUPPORT ME ON P@TREON IF YOU'D LIKE ACCESS ON ADVANCED CHAPTERS
PAT REON . COM / TurdTranslations (Just remove the space).