In Konoha, inside the Hokage's office.
Mitokado Homura and Utatane Koharu were so overwhelmed by the sudden burst of Uzumaki Kuming's presence that, for a moment, neither of them spoke. Just then, Hiruzen Sarutobi stepped in to smooth things over and agreed to Kuming's request.
When they heard Hiruzen had spoken, Homura and Koharu exchanged a glance and said nothing more. Both were veteran Jonin who had lived through wars. From the presence Kuming had unleashed moments ago, they could already gauge how powerful he had become.
The red-haired young man before them now had the strength to influence the decisions of Konoha's leadership.
"Homura, Koharu, you can go back for now. I'll make arrangements regarding Dai."
"I'd like to speak with Kuming alone."
Hiruzen knew Kuming was unhappy with the decision Homura and Koharu had made earlier, but he didn't want Kuming's conflict with his two old comrades to deepen. He turned to Homura and Koharu and said as much.
The two elders were shrewd enough to understand the Third Hokage's meaning at once. They nodded to Hiruzen, then stood up. "All right, we'll be going, then."
"We'll arrange for someone to handle Dai's funeral."
Before leaving, Homura spoke to Hiruzen, hoping to ease the tension from their earlier confrontation.
"Mm!" The Third Hokage smiled and nodded in response. Kuming glanced at the two as they left but had no objection.
After the two elders had gone, Kuming rubbed his cheek and casually took a seat in the office.
"You've certainly become much more outspoken since I last saw you. I suppose that's youth for you."
Hiruzen smiled at Kuming's relaxed manner, not minding his boldness in the slightest.
"I didn't have a choice before."
Kuming shifted into a more comfortable position and murmured before continuing, "Sensei, what did