"Good evening, Lord Rikaku!" Yizhe said with a smile, nodding respectfully.
He was not surprised to encounter Rikaku here. In fact, he had even expected it somewhat.
If he had been Rikaku, he would not have given up on such a place that required thorough investigation.
"You're quite capable, young man! With just two Shadow Clones, you toyed with so many of us. As expected of a ninja raised in Konoha and educated from childhood!" Rikaku praised him sincerely.
"Shadow Clones?" Shizune cried out instinctively.
She had not expected this prospective junior disciple to have rescued Daidao using Shadow Clones.
"Young man, come with me." Rikaku used the Body Flicker Technique to approach, placing one hand on Yizhe's shoulder.
Although Rikaku wore a kind, friendly smile, Yizhe could hear the forcefulness in his tone. It allowed no refusal.
If he dared utter even half a word of refusal, the hand poised on his shoulder would immediately exert force and seize him.
"If Lord Rikaku wants to take him away, shouldn't you ask me first?"
Tsunade's proud voice came from inside the room, and anyone could hear the displeasure contained in her tone.
"Lady Tsunade, why must you interfere in the internal affairs of my Land of Iron?"
"This young man has nothing to do with you. Please do not damage the relations between our two nations by wading into these muddy waters!" Hearing Tsunade speak, Rikaku removed his hand from Yizhe's shoulder. Though his expression was respectful, his tone remained forceful.
After Yizhe had rescued Daidao, Rikaku had investigated his background. He discovered that although Yizhe was fairly close to Tsunade, they did not share any particularly deep connection. They merely knew each other.
That was why he had dared to wait outside and forcefully seize Yizhe.
"Yizhe is my