It wasn't just Mei Terumi. Even Uchiha Yin felt painfully awkward.
That fake, solemn speech was far too melodramatic for him.
But while Uchiha Yin was cringing at his own words, Utakata took them to heart.
"You're right. After all these years, I really have let Master down!"
He lowered his head, his face full of sorrow.
Uchiha Yin saw that the time was right and said,
"Kirigakure was your Master’s home. He always loved it. Now that he's gone, wouldn't it be better for you to carry on his wish and protect this village?"
There was something almost hypnotic in Uchiha Yin's voice.
Utakata, who had been so hesitant, obediently nodded.
"When Master died, I had nothing to believe in. Having something worth protecting for the rest of my life doesn't sound bad."
Mei Terumi watched Utakata walk into the net, step by step, like a fish drawn to bait.
She couldn't help admiring Uchiha Yin's talent for persuasion.
Uchiha Yin hadn't missed Mei Terumi's skeptical look.
But to keep himself from laughing, he gave the back of her hand a firm slap, warning her not to interfere.
Mei Terumi could be playful, but she had always taken Uchiha Yin's requests seriously.
She immediately hid her skepticism and watched his every move with a solemn expression.
Once Utakata agreed, Uchiha Yin had him swear his loyalty.
An oath had no real power to bind anyone, but every ninja had their pride. Once they had sworn, they wouldn't go back on their word.
So when the three of them came out of the room, they all looked refreshed.
Mei Terumi, in particular, looked as though she was struggling not to laugh. Anyone watching would have found it funny, though none dared laugh aloud.
After settling Utakata in, Uchiha Yin had