Murky sewage flowed slowly past their feet, while the pungent stench of mold drilled straight into their nostrils. Droplets seeped from the gaps between the stone bricks overhead and struck the pipe walls slick with moss, producing crisp echoes.
The Leaf Village's underground drainage system was a labyrinth that never saw daylight, the perfect breeding ground for darkness and crime.
Xiao walked in front. The hem of his dark gray cloak hovered half an inch above the water's surface, untouched by a single drop of filth. Hong followed close behind, her silver-gray Eye of Time glimmering faintly in the darkness as she vigilantly scanned the surrounding shadows.
"Come out." Xiao stopped, his voice echoing through the hollow pipe.
The sewage ahead churned violently. A figure clad in black skintight clothing and wearing a blank mask silently peeled itself out of the water. He knelt on one knee in the filthy water, letting the grime soak his trouser legs without the slightest hesitation.
He removed his mask, revealing a young, pale face. Three black tomoe slowly revolved within his scarlet eyes, casting an eerie red glow through the darkness.
"Master." Qiye lowered his head, his tone brimming with fanatical loyalty.
Xiao looked down at this perfect tool cloned from Shisui Cells and nodded with satisfaction. The blade he had planted deep within the Leaf Village had finally come time to taste blood.
"Get up and speak." Xiao raised a hand slightly. "How are things on Hiashi's side?"
Qiye rose to his feet, his gaze lowered as he spoke rapidly. "Everything is proceeding according to your script. Kotoamatsukami's command has completely reshaped his cognitive logic. He now firmly believes that only by constantly compromising with Danzo and sacrificing the Branch House can he preserve the Main House's last bloodline."
"Hasn't he aroused