Facing Kakashi as he was now, Tazuna instinctively took a step back. The aura of a ninja was far beyond what an ordinary person like him could withstand—especially an Elite Jonin like Kakashi, who had fought in the Ninja World War.
"You... you listen to my explanation!" Tazuna hurriedly waved his hands, his face full of panic.
"I'm listening. Otherwise, you wouldn't have the chance to speak now. I hope you can give me a reasonable explanation," Kakashi said calmly.
Tazuna then hurriedly explained the whole story from beginning to end.
"That's what happened. Because I didn't have enough money to hire high-ranking ninjas, I could only resort to this. Please forgive me—I did it for the sake of the entire Land of Waves!" Tazuna knelt on the ground and apologized with utmost sincerity.
Sakura clenched her fists and said quietly, "That Gato is horrible. For his own selfish desires, he's kept the entire Land of Waves cut off from the outside world for so long. Kakashi-sensei, let's help old man Tazuna."
Naruto stepped forward with his fists clenched, completely placing himself on Tazuna's side. "Old man, don't worry. We'll definitely help you take down that bastard Gato. The bridge in the Land of Waves will definitely be finished."
Sasuke watched quietly from the side, wearing his usual expression and offering no opinion.
Humans were naturally inclined to sympathize with the weak, feeling instinctive compassion for those being oppressed. On top of that, Tazuna had painted himself as utterly miserable in his explanation just now. By this point, Sakura and Naruto had subconsciously placed themselves on his side, imagining themselves as heroes defeating the villain and saving the Land of Waves.
But just then, a voice poured cold water over them.
"Sakura, Naruto, Sasuke, pack up. We're heading back to