Within the Hatake Clan grounds, a young man with white hair held a child of about three in his arms, his eyes shining brilliantly.
"Dad, aren't you going to tell Grandpa?"
"I know you're going to the battlefield. It's dangerous there, so you have to come back safely."
"And besides, I'm already three years old. I'm not a little kid anymore."
"I'm already a real man. I'll definitely protect Mom, Grandpa, and the others."
"I promise you. It's a promise between men."
"Dad, you have to come back too!"
Hatake Sakumo looked at Hatake Qixi before him, a trace of reluctance flashing through his eyes. He had possessed keen insight and exceptional intelligence since childhood, so he was difficult to deceive.
"Mm."
"This is a promise between men."
"Dad will definitely keep it."
"You too. Promise Dad that you'll live well."
Hatake Qixi looked at Hatake Sakumo, the corners of his lips lifting slightly as a faint smile flashed in his eyes.
"Mm-hmm."
Hatake Sakumo nodded and held out his little hand, clenching it into a fist.
"Ha ha...!"
Hatake Qixi also raised his fist. The two bumped fists, then Hatake Qixi set Hatake Sakumo down and turned to leave.
"Dad, you have to be careful!"
After Hatake Qixi left, Hatake Sakumo furrowed his brows tightly. Possessing wisdom beyond that of ordinary people, worry flashed in his eyes.
"Stay safe."
"You're my, Hatake Tianqi's, son. Don't disgrace the Hatake Clan."
As Hatake Qixi stepped outside, a middle-aged man who looked remarkably similar to him watched him, helplessness flashing in his eyes.
"I understand, Father."
"I'll leave Sakumo to you. I'm going now."
"Take care."
Whoosh...!
Hatake Qixi nodded, vanished from the spot without looking back.
"Sigh...!"
Hatake Tianqi let out a long sigh and shook his head.
"Young Master,