Reflection in the Storm's Eye

Kaimera stood outside the Mizukage's office, gazing up at the sky. The day was extremely gloomy, heavy clouds swirling ominously as if a storm were about to make landfall upon the village. The scent of rain was thick in the air, mingling with the salty tang of the nearby sea. It mirrored the storm of emotions within him—anticipation, unease, and a hint of nostalgia. He could almost feel the weight of the storm pressing down on his shoulders, mirroring the heavy thoughts that clouded his mind.

Taking a deep breath, he steeled himself and approached the office doors. The guards, recognizing him, opened the doors without a word, allowing him to step inside. The transition from the stormy exterior to the warm, well-lit interior was stark, and Kaimera felt a momentary disorientation. The sudden change in atmosphere did little to calm the nerves within him.

As he walked through the corridors, his footsteps echoing softly, memories of the past days flooded back. His ex-sensei, now the Mizukage, had been a dutiful shinobi but had little impact on Kaimera's life. Their relationship had always felt distant, almost ghostly. He could see his sensei, but he could never quite reach him, never truly connect. It was as though the man had been a shadow, always present but never tangible, a mentor in title only. Kaimera respected Shiro for his position as the Mizukage, but that was the extent of his regard.

Finally, he reached the Mizukage's office. The guards outside nodded respectfully and opened the doors for him. Kaimera stepped inside, his polite smile in place despite the emotions within him. The office was spacious, decorated with traditional Water Village motifs, and filled with the scent of fresh sea air. The room was a stark contrast to the gloomy weather outside, an oasis of calm and order.

WC: 305
[+1 Nature Stack]