Fist Intent was not some mysterious, unfathomable thing.
It was an expression of one's inner pursuit.
In other words, it meant carrying a heart that sought the Way and embodying that heart within one's fists.
Only then could one strike without hesitation, unleashing all the strength in one's body alongside a focused, pure spirit.
That was the simple inner logic behind it.
Of course, while it sounded simple, it was far from easy to achieve.
After all, human hearts were complicated. People schemed for petty gains, and those with a true heart for the Way were few. Most simply muddled through life and drifted with the current.
Lord Third had no intention of criticizing them. After all, many people in this world already struggled just to survive, while those who lived well had to endure all kinds of temptations.
He merely hoped that the three juniors before him whom he had taught—well, mainly Kakashi and Itachi—could always uphold their own paths.
As for Might Guy?
There was no need for him to worry too much about someone with such pure sincerity.
"Lord Third, thank you for your guidance."
Itachi, Kakashi, and Might Guy all bowed respectfully.
Afterward, they departed, each beginning their preparations and setting out upon their own paths...
Once they had left, Lord Third turned toward a tree.
"Come out."
A small figure stepped out from behind it.
It was Kabuto.
"Lord Third." Kabuto greeted him with an awkward laugh.
"You care about it too, don't you?"
"...I don't really want to go outside." Kabuto lowered his head.
"But you have your own pride as well."
Kabuto looked up. Lord Third was already standing before him.
A wrinkled hand stroked his head.
"You don't want them to leave you behind. You want to be able to keep up