Asuma's death had stirred ripples once more in hearts that should have long since been tempered into calmness.
Of course, they were in pain.
But honestly, they also knew that pain was useless at a time like this.
What they wanted more now was revenge. Yes, revenge.
As for the Akatsuki Organization, none of the three were ordinary ninja, so they had naturally heard their elders speak of it before.
It was a matter of great importance, especially at this critical time when Naruto had left the village.
They did not know what they should do—whether to stubbornly seek revenge or choose another path. They did not know how to decide.
That was why they had remained silent until now.
And when Ino Yamanaka broke the silence, it meant that she had already made her choice.
Ino Yamanaka's delicate golden ponytail, fair skin, blue eyes, and smile at that moment—
It seemed as though her thoughts were written plainly across her face.
She spoke. "I don't know what you two think, but I will never allow something like this to happen again, even if I have to risk everything."
Choji Akimichi and Shikamaru Nara remained silent, seeming to ponder Ino Yamanaka's words.
Ino Yamanaka was neither anxious nor did she leave. She knew her companions could understand her, and that they would make the same choice she had.
Because from the day they truly became the new generation of Ino-Shika-Cho, the outcome had already been destined.
They simply needed to think it through for themselves.
Choji Akimichi was the first to take out another bag of chips from his pocket and silently begin eating.
Ino Yamanaka smiled, then turned her gaze directly toward Shikamaru Nara.
Shikamaru Nara suddenly smiled, but there was no amusement in his eyes.
He said, "Forget