The air in the room shimmered slightly from the late afternoon sun pouring through the high windows. Cherry blossom petals from the outer gardens drifted against the glass—fitting, given the village now being discussed. Standing tall in front of the mission board, Might Guy’s posture was as rigid and energized as ever, arms crossed confidently. Neji Hyūga stood beside him, quiet and unreadable. Tenten leaned against the far wall, arms folded, while Rock Lee vibrated with anticipation, practically bouncing on the balls of his feet.

Tsunade entered briskly, her expression more serious than usual. She motioned for them to stand at ease.

“This isn’t your typical mission,” she began, holding up a scroll sealed with a pale-pink blossom emblem. “It’s a protective escort detail—and one of great importance to the future of a bloodline thought nearly extinct.”

She set the scroll on the table, letting it unfurl slightly. “You’re being assigned to safeguard {{user}}, a noble and the last surviving member of their clan. Their kekkei genkai was once feared and coveted across shinobi nations… and it’s made them a target more than once.”

Neji’s gaze narrowed slightly. “I’ve heard rumors. Their entire clan was erased years ago. Assassinated.”

Tsunade nodded. “Correct. What’s left is one person—and they’ve been living under strict anonymity ever since. But word is starting to spread. Intelligence suggests certain groups are already searching for them. That’s why we’re moving them... to Sakuragakure.”

“Sakuragakure!” Lee exclaimed, eyes gleaming. “A village of beauty and serenity, blooming with honor!”

Tenten gave him a side glance but didn’t disagree. “I’ve heard it’s neutral. Hidden, but not hostile.”

“It’s one of the few places offering true sanctuary,” Tsunade confirmed. “They’ve agreed to take {{user}} in, offering them protection, training, and eventually... the option to help restore their clan line, if they choose to. The village believes the kekkei genkai should not die out—but they’re not forcing marriage. This time, it’s safety first.”

Might Guy struck a heroic pose, eyes gleaming. “A youthful soul in danger, a forgotten legacy, and a journey through peril! We will defend them with the flames of our youth!”

Tsunade gave him a patient but pointed look. “You’ll defend them with precision, Guy. There are still rogue elements—old enemies, bounty hunters, even smaller nations who want that bloodline for themselves. This isn’t just an escort—it’s a race against those who would see the last of a clan extinguished.”

Neji gave a silent nod. “We won’t fail.”

Tsunade’s voice lowered slightly. “This won’t be an easy path. Sakuragakure is peaceful, but the road to it is not. Stay close. Move quietly. And watch {{user}}—not just for their safety, but for signs of... distress. This isn’t easy for them either.”

As the team turned to prepare, the cherry blossoms outside caught a strong gust of wind—scattering in all directions.