At that thought...
Black Zetsu forced a faint smile and said to Setsuna,
"Temporary failure paves the way for future success. A momentary defeat paves the way for lasting victory."
"Lady Setsuna, you needn't take this to heart."
"We can head to the Land of Grass first and make our plans once we have that vessel."
Setsuna gave Black Zetsu a somewhat surprised look.
After considering it, she nodded and said,
"Yes, that will do."
Setsuna turned to Togami Kurotsuru beside her.
"Kurotsuru, now that Yagura is dead, return to Kirigakure when you have time and see whether you can..."
"Never mind. Just act as the situation demands. If nothing can be done, withdraw immediately."
Setsuna was reluctant to abandon Kirigakure just like that.
So she decided to send Kurotsuru to investigate.
Kurotsuru gave a slight nod.
"Understood, Lady Setsuna."
"Good."
Setsuna nodded and turned to Black Zetsu beside her.
"Pack up. We should prepare to leave as well."
Black Zetsu broke into a broad smile.
"As you command, Lady Setsuna."
Konoha.
The Hokage Office.
Shisui knelt on one knee, reporting to Minato about his trip.
"...That was roughly how it went, Lord Hokage."
Minato looked thoughtful, then gave a wry chuckle after a long pause.
"Obito was right..."
"Although I personally support your actions, as Hokage, I cannot openly offer you help."
"Worse still, once your identities are exposed, I will have to publicly condemn your actions and declare you missing-nin."
Shisui sighed and said,
"I only realized that on the way back..."
He raised his head and looked at Minato.
"Lord Hokage, if you permit it, I intend to leave the village and help my cousin."
Minato asked solemnly,
"Are you certain you want to take this road of no return, Shisui?"
Shisui nodded, his gaze resolute.