Chapter 215: Psalms 23
The sun blazed overhead as Arthur pressed on.
Some time ago, the Sand made a public apology to the Leaf Village leaders that seemed quite sincere. It was due to the failed invasion that, while they relayed the matter to the Leaf, they never participated in.
They had believed it would have never happened, going as far as withdrawing from the Chūnin Exams to save face.
The Leaf, of course, deemed their apology sincere and didn't fault them on their decision. If anything, the Leaf could have turned the table and invaded them since they were without a Kage.
All those events that transpired were only tales of valor from those wishing to play hero—the players.
The hot wind continued to whip through the sand as Arthur walked. He surveyed the vast horizon, wondering if he would soon spot the cliffs that concealed the village from outsiders. His footfalls were steady, crunching in the shifting sands with each stride westward.
Although the landscape was monotonous, he understood his location. The craggy hills would signal he was close.
The sun beat down mercilessly against the parched earth. Sweat trickled down his temples, but he didn't wipe it away. His face remained impassive as he moved with a deliberate, almost mechanical gait.
When the winds weren't violently rushing across his cloak, all that could be heard was his footsteps echoing faintly in the oppressive silence.
The desert stretched like an endless sea of sand dunes. Not a single blade of grass dared to break the monotony of the beige expanse. The air, thick with heat, distorted the distant horizon, making it seem like he was moving.
Arthur continued his journey, his eyes fixed on the distance. Thirst gnawed at his throat, but he ignored it, pressing on. He knew an oasis lay ahead, so there was no need to think about water.