Chapitre 198: Chapter 194: The Village Hidden in the Stones
Chapter 194: The Village Hidden in the Stones
Malik followed the Kamizuru siblings as they moved swiftly through the dense forests and rocky terrain toward the Village Hidden in the Stones. He floated after them, keeping pace easily regardless of their speed. His ability to fly made the journey less tiring for him, though every now and then, he had to stop when his wife Shisui or one of his many fiancées yelled at him telepathically. Malik spent a good portion of the journey massaging his temples and muttering, doing his best to calm them all down. From the Kamizuru siblings' perspective, it looked as though Malik was suffering from an immense headache, but otherwise, they had no reason to question his antics.
As they moved forward, the conversations began to flow more naturally. Malik, ever the charmer, found Suzumebachi and her brothers easy to talk to. They seemed almost eager for conversation. It made sense, considering how isolated their clan had become over the years. It struck Malik that after the downfall of the Kamizuru Clan, they likely had no real allies within their own village. Even fewer people would have been willing to befriend them, especially in a place as competitive as Iwagakure.
Kurobachi, the eldest, remained largely silent, though Malik could tell from their talks that this was his nature. Suzumebachi explained that Kurobachi had always been quiet, even as a child. Whenever anyone tried to bully him, especially before Suzumebachi was old enough to defend him, he would simply take it without a word. Suzumebachi's own demeanor as the middle child was a reflection of her need to step up and protect her family, leading her to be both fierce and independent.
Then there was Jibachi, the youngest. According to Suzumebachi, he had always been a troublemaker. He would start fights he couldn't finish, picking battles he had no hope of winning just to prove a point. She spoke of him with a small smile, a rare and soft expression that showed her fondness for her brothers, even if their memories were bittersweet.
Malik floated closer to her as they walked, the air growing chillier as the mountains of the Land of Earth loomed ahead. "What about you, Suzumebachi?" Malik asked with a grin. "I'm always flirting, sure, but I am genuinely interested in you."
Suzumebachi's face flushed a bright red as she looked away. "What do you mean by that?" she asked, her voice sharp but slightly shaky.
Malik, with a chuckle, pressed on. "I mean, you're a capable leader, a strong kunoichi, but I'm curious—what's your story? What drives someone like you?"
She narrowed her eyes at him, trying to deflect. "You're only interested in our clan."
Kurobachi and Jibachi both rolled their eyes, recognizing her evasiveness. Malik didn't miss a beat. "Sure, your clan's situation interests me, but so do you, Suzumebachi. You're far more interesting than just the circumstances you were born into."
Embarrassed and unwilling to entertain the conversation any further, Suzumebachi sped up, leaving Malik behind. She wasn't used to receiving genuine attention, especially from men who seemed to know everything about her clan's history and still found her fascinating. It was… uncomfortable.
As Suzumebachi disappeared ahead, Malik turned his attention to her brothers. "I'll be honest," Malik said, "Your sister is beautiful, but she's also tough and independent. If I'm making her uncomfortable, I can dial it back."
Jibachi, with his mouth full of bread from their last meal, shrugged. "It's not that. Most men were never interested in her because of our clan's reputation. Every crush she had growing up was crushed in return. No one wants to be dragged down by being associated with us. If someone did show interest, it was either for a joke or… well, let's just say it didn't end well for the guys who only wanted one thing. You're the first person who's been genuinely interested in her, knowing full well where we come from."
Malik nodded thoughtfully. "Well, I'll do my best to help your clan. That's a promise," he said, his tone serious.
The brothers exchanged a look but said nothing more. Malik's sincerity was a strange thing to witness. It wasn't something they were used to.
The journey continued over the next three days, with Malik cooking for them each night and morning. They traveled across plains, forests, and finally into the craggy mountains that made up the Land of Earth. It was an arduous journey, but with Malik's culinary skills and light-hearted conversation, the days passed more quickly than expected.
Arrival in Iwagakure
The Village Hidden in the Stones, Iwagakure, finally came into view as they approached the summit of a rocky path. Malik paused to take in the sight. The village was nestled within the mountainous terrain, a natural fortress surrounded by steep cliffs and deep valleys. The buildings of Iwagakure seemed to blend into the mountains themselves, made from stone and rock to seamlessly become part of the landscape.
As they neared the village, Malik couldn't help but be impressed by the architecture. Large, sturdy structures dominated the village, each one designed to withstand the harsh conditions of the region. The stone buildings rose up from the rocky ground, giving the village a formidable and imposing appearance. The Tsuchikage's office loomed in the distance, an imposing stone structure that symbolized the village's strength and resilience.
"We're here," Jibachi muttered, stretching his arms. He seemed relieved to be back in familiar territory, even if it meant facing the challenges that awaited them.
Suzumebachi, having recovered her composure from their earlier conversation, was all business now. She looked around warily as they entered the village, though she knew they would have to face the Tsuchikage soon enough.
"You still sure about this?" she asked Malik, casting him a sideways glance.
Malik floated ahead of them, his eyes twinkling as he took in the sights. "I'm more than ready. Let's go meet your leader. And don't worry—I'm not just here to cause trouble. I've got a plan."
The siblings looked at each other before silently agreeing to move forward. The Village Hidden in the Stones awaited, and with it, a new challenge for both Malik and the Kamizuru Clan. The real test was just beginning.
As the group of four moved deeper into the Village Hidden in the Stones, Malik decided to walk alongside the Kamizuru siblings rather than hover or fly. Despite his usual flair for drawing attention, Malik sensed that this was not the time to flaunt his powers openly. The villagers' eyes were already on them, with most of the focus falling on the three Kamizuru siblings. Malik noticed the whispers, the curious stares, and even the double-takes when the villagers saw him—a short, chubby, and unmistakably foreign figure in their midst.
"Is that... Malik? The famous baker?" someone whispered, causing others nearby to glance his way. Malik, with a smile that was both humble and amused, kept his focus on the path ahead. The people of Iwagakure seemed more surprised than hostile. That was a good sign.
As they walked, Malik broke the silence. "Alright, I know you think I know everything about your clan, but there are still gaps in my knowledge. Catch me up—tell me about your mission to find the bikōchū beetle and, more importantly, just how many Kamizuru clan members there are today. I've heard that both the Third Tsuchikage and his granddaughter don't use the clan's unique techniques, which is a little… peculiar, don't you think?"
Suzumebachi exchanged a glance with her brothers. She was hesitant at first but then gave a nod. "The mission to find the bikōchū beetle wasn't just some whim. We were tasked with locating our grandfather's scroll—our granduncle Ōnoki gave us permission to search for it," she began, her voice firm and resolute.
Malik nodded, genuinely interested. "The scroll of the First Tsuchikage, Ishikawa, right?"
"Yes," Kurobachi chimed in, his voice quieter but steady. "The scroll contains forbidden and forgotten jutsu, techniques our clan once mastered. If we can retrieve it, it might restore the Kamizuru Clan to its former glory. The bikōchū beetle was our best hope. Its sense of smell is unparalleled—it can track anything once it detects a scent."
Suzumebachi continued, "It took us years to find the bikōchū forest. That forest is one of the last places on Earth where these beetles still exist. The Aburame clan, the same one that led to our downfall, once used the bikōchū in wars, but they let the species survive in the forest to ensure its existence. If we could've just found the scroll…"
Malik listened carefully, intrigued. The Kamizuru's plan was bold, but their desperation made it clear how important it was to them. Their clan was once revered, and now they were barely hanging on, with only a few members remaining. He could feel the weight of their struggle.
"And how many Kamizuru are left today?" Malik asked, steering the conversation to something more immediate.
"To be honest," Jibachi said, "even we don't know the exact number. We estimate around twenty members, maybe more. But most are either too old, too young, or simply live outside the village to avoid the stigma attached to our clan."
Malik's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "A clan that was once feared and respected, now reduced to a handful of scattered individuals… It's tragic." He paused, looking around at the people in the village. Despite the strength and happiness on their faces, there was a certain lack of wealth, a sign of a weaker economy compared to other hidden villages.
Malik made a mental note of Iwagakure's statistics—Population: 4/5. Military: 4/5. Economy: 2/5. It was clear that while the village had strong shinobi and a decent population, its economic strength was severely lacking. That was something he could help with, and Malik knew better than anyone that bolstering the economy could change everything for the people living there.
As they neared the towering stone structure of the Tsuchikage's office, Malik noticed a few shinobi tailing them, no doubt curious about their presence. The shinobi weren't openly hostile, but their presence was felt—observant and perhaps slightly protective of their village leader.
The Tsuchikage's office loomed high above them, carved into the very rock of the mountain itself. Its sheer size and imposing architecture reflected the power and authority of the Tsuchikage, and Malik couldn't help but be impressed by its design.
Without realizing it, Malik had taken the lead, walking confidently toward the office. He only stopped when he noticed the Kamizuru siblings had fallen behind slightly, exchanging nervous glances. "Oh, sorry," Malik said with a sheepish grin, "I didn't mean to take the lead. Why don't one of you lead us the rest of the way? I don't want to get stabbed walking into a building full of ninja."
Jibachi chuckled lightly, but it was Suzumebachi who took the lead. "Right, we'll handle it from here," she said, her voice regaining its usual authority. "Just stay close. Ōnoki may have given us permission to search for the scroll, but introducing you to him might be... tricky."
Malik raised an eyebrow. "Tricky how?"
Suzumebachi didn't answer directly, but the look she gave him spoke volumes. The Third Tsuchikage was a man known for his stubbornness and pride, and a foreigner like Malik might not receive the warmest welcome.
Malik smiled confidently. "Don't worry. I have a way of winning people over."
As they made their way through the last stretch of Iwagakure's streets, the stares intensified. The Kamizuru siblings were still a rare sight, and many of the villagers hadn't seen them in years. But Malik was a different story entirely—his fame, his fortune, and his reputation preceded him, even here. There was a mix of admiration, curiosity, and confusion in the eyes of the people they passed.
As they reached the steps leading up to the Tsuchikage's office, Malik looked up at the towering stone structure one last time. "Well," he said to the siblings, "no turning back now. Let's go meet the Tsuchikage and see what we can do to fix things for your clan."
The Kamizuru siblings exchanged one last glance before leading Malik up the steps. Inside those stone walls, a new chapter was about to unfold—one that could either save their clan or bury it for good.
Malik continued to follow the Kamizuru siblings through the winding corridors and stone-carved hallways of the Tsuchikage's building. The walls were smooth, yet chipped in places, showing the wear of centuries. Stone banners bearing the symbol of Iwagakure and the kanji for "Earth" adorned the entrance hall. Carved murals depicting moments of the village's proud history stretched across the walls, illuminated by lanterns casting warm golden light.
The sound of their steps echoed through the expansive hallways, joined by the soft murmurs of onlookers and the heavy tread of shinobi trailing them. The presence of so many ninja did not go unnoticed—more and more were following now, not bothering to hide their curiosity. Malik could feel their eyes on him and the Kamizuru siblings, observing and scrutinizing every movement.
Jibachi leaned over toward Malik, whispering just low enough to avoid the ears of the shinobi trailing behind. "Just wait. This is nothing."
Malik chuckled quietly. "I hope so. I do enjoy an audience."
As they neared a wide stone staircase, a sharp voice pierced the air, cutting through the quiet tension.
"Who the hell do you think you are?!"
The three siblings immediately stiffened but didn't turn around. They knew exactly who that voice belonged to. Suzumebachi winced but kept her gaze forward, and Kurobachi let out a sigh, muttering under his breath. "This is going to be a problem."
Malik, however, stopped in his tracks and turned around with a curious look. He saw her—the infamous Kurotsuchi, granddaughter of the Third Tsuchikage. She was stomping toward him, her black hair swaying slightly with every step, her fishnet tights glinting in the lantern light. She was dressed in her signature one-sleeve red uniform and brown Iwagakure flak jacket, with a smug expression already plastered across her face.
Malik smiled, thinking to himself, Ah, a mini-boss fight. Perfect.
Kurotsuchi stopped right in front of him, poking his soft chest with every word. "Who. The. Hell. Are. You?"
Several nearby shinobi subtly shook their heads, silently warning Malik to tread carefully. But Malik had never been one to back down from a challenge, especially not one as amusing as this.
With a grand bow, Malik grinned up at her. "Well, my lady," he said playfully. "They call me Malik across the lands."
Kurotsuchi raised an unimpressed eyebrow, folding her arms as she slowly circled him, her dark eyes examining every inch of the short, chubby man. "The rich guy, huh?" She stopped in front of him again, her lips curling into a mocking smile. "Not impressed."
Malik threw his head back and laughed. "Oh, don't worry, princess. I may be short and chubby, but trust me—I do impress."
Kurotsuchi's smile widened into a smug smirk. "You? Impressive? Yeah, I don't think so. And don't call me princess."
Malik stepped forward, his smile never faltering. He circled her this time, mirroring her earlier movements, taking in her sharp features and confident stance. "Oh, you definitely need the title of 'princess.' A warrior princess, perhaps. But if your royal highness would be so kind as to grace this humble merchant with her name, I shall address her as such."
When he returned to stand in front of her, Kurotsuchi rolled her eyes, but there was a flicker of amusement in them. "Kurotsuchi."
Malik's smile softened. He gently took her hand and, before she could react, pressed a kiss to her knuckles. A collective gasp rippled through the gathered shinobi, and even the Kamizuru siblings blinked in disbelief.
Kurotsuchi slowly withdrew her hand, staring at Malik with a mix of confusion and disbelief. "Look, kid, you can't just walk into a building full of ninja and expect to get away with this. You're lucky no one's stabbed you yet."
With another bow, Malik responded with ease, "Kurotsuchi is a beautiful name, but if I may correct you: One, I am no child. Two, I am not alone." He gestured toward the Kamizuru siblings, who did their best to shrink away from the attention.
"And three," Malik added, "this village is not as unknown to me as it was a moment ago—because now I know you, Kurotsuchi."
For the first time, Kurotsuchi broke eye contact, her smug demeanor faltering just slightly. She crossed her arms, trying to regain control of the conversation. "I'm almost twenty years old, so whatever you're trying to pull here, don't bother."
Malik chuckled. "Don't worry, Kurotsuchi. I'm certain our time to shine will come later. But for now, I have an appointment with your grandfather. Important matters to discuss—love."
Kurotsuchi opened her mouth, about to fire back with something snarky, but a stone shinobi appeared in front of Malik, bowing respectfully. "The Third Tsuchikage is ready to see you."
Kurotsuchi blinked, momentarily stunned, but then quickly collected herself. "Then I'll just have to come with you," she said, falling back into her confident stride.
Malik gave her another playful bow. "It would be an honor. Thank you, Princess."
She rolled her eyes again, but this time there was the faintest hint of a smile.
Tsuchikage's Office
The main office of the Tsuchikage was an impressive space, blending practicality with the traditional aesthetics of Iwagakure. The high ceiling allowed sunlight to stream through large windows, casting long shadows across the polished stone floor. The desk at the far end was carved from solid wood, intricately decorated with symbols representing the strength and history of the village. Around the room, shelves were filled with scrolls and ancient texts, meticulously organized.
Stone sculptures and traditional weapons decorated the space, and a low stone table with cushioned chairs sat off to the side—clearly meant for meetings with dignitaries or visiting leaders.
At the far end of the room, seated behind the desk, was the Third Tsuchikage, Ōnoki. He was a very short, old man with a triangular beard, a moustache with angular corners, and a big red nose. His thick eyebrows framed his sharp, knowing eyes, and the top of his head was completely bald, save for long white hair tied into a topknot at the back.
Ōnoki looked up as Malik and the group entered, his gaze sharp and assessing. Despite his age, there was no mistaking the authority in his presence.
Malik gave a respectful bow. "Lord Ōnoki, I thank you for your time."
The old Tsuchikage studied Malik for a moment before speaking in a gravelly voice. "You're the famous baker everyone keeps talking about." His eyes narrowed slightly. "What business do you have with me?"
Malik straightened, his smile never wavering. "I come in peace, Lord Ōnoki, with hopes to mend what has been broken." He gestured toward the Kamizuru siblings. "I believe there are ways to restore both honor and prosperity to this village—and I hope to discuss exactly how."
Ōnoki leaned back in his chair, stroking his beard thoughtfully. "You're an ambitious one, I'll give you that."
With a flick of his hand, he gestured for them all to sit. "Very well. Speak, Malik. Let's hear what you have to say."
And with that, the real negotiations began.
État de l’alimentation hebdomadaire
-- Classement
Power Stone 
-- Power
stone