Consistency.
I am in the Fire Country, around the outskirts of Konohagakure. I shall reach my rendezvous point with Kidoumaru within a few days. Hopefully, I won't run into any trouble, but even if I do, it won't be anything I can't handle.
Orochimaru-sama, I have heard rumors that Uchiha Sasuke has left Konoha to rescue his teammate, possibly followed by another unscheduled guest. I did not want this to go unnoticed by the guards left in Otogakure, so prepare, as well as for a team because I wouldn't put that past Godaime.
I love the forest and the fields in this area. The beauty makes me forget about my mission and about all the stresses I've left behind. I am not even afraid of an encounter, I'm just at peace here. It's really beautiful country.
I cannot begin to express how wonderful it is to be out of the dim of Otogakure. I've never much liked confined spaces, or civilization for that matter. I prefer the outdoors, and the plants of course, to anything else. Speaking of which, I hope my garden is still intact. Jiroubou better be tending it properly.
Even when I know I am fulfilling my purpose for Orochimaru-sama, I can't help but feel more satisfaction just by hiking through new terrain. Kei-san's reports have come in quite handy just on this small mission alone. I am grateful to her, though I can't reveal it without risking myself.
Once this mission is over, I'm immersing myself in training once again. I cannot afford these weaknesses.
A few more days to a reunion, and then only a few more to home. Kami-sama, please bless me with good fortune, if only for this mission.