Kakashi felt a headache coming on. The importance of these two went without saying; they were crucial to the bigger picture. No matter what, he absolutely could not let them go so easily.
But with things so urgent at the moment, he could only try every possible means to persuade them to stay first.
"I can return your weapon to you, and I can let you leave," Kakashi said, his sharp gaze fixed tightly on Utakata. "But... the situation you're in is extremely dangerous. Following us is the safest and wisest choice."
However, Utakata refused without the slightest hesitation. "I won't take Hotaru away, but I don't need your sympathy, nor do I believe in your so-called goodwill."
"Why!?" Hotaru had already fallen so deeply into the whirlpool of love that she could not pull herself free. No matter what, she wanted to leave with Utakata, her heart filled with stubborn resolve.
"Lord Utakata..." Tears welled in Hotaru's eyes. Her pitiful appearance stirred sympathy, and she stared at Utakata pleadingly.
As Utakata looked at her, his heart churned. How could he bear to leave her? But he had to think of her.
Though Hotaru's deeply affectionate gaze moved him, Utakata gritted his teeth, hardened his heart, and turned away. He could not let Hotaru be dragged into this endless conflict and danger.
Hotaru, forgive me. I can't let you get hurt. This is the only thing I can do for you.
He tried to hide the emotion in his eyes, leaving only coldness and resolve. "Teaching you ninjutsu was merely an exchange. I only hoped to gain your protection through it.
"I was never truly your teacher, so there's no need for you to expect too much from me."
At Utakata's words, Hotaru's face instantly turned pale as paper. She