This Secret Has to Be Asked of Orochimaru!

Although Hatake Sakumo had been released, as soon as he acted high-profile, it would arouse resentment in others. You were only released through connections, so what were you being so cocky about? Without those connections, wouldn't you still be happily mining and cleaning in prison?

That was only a minor issue. Resentment and hostility were nothing, as long as they did not lead to the entire village joining forces to boycott Hatake Sakumo. Without a word from the higher-ups, it would all be pointless. But if Hatake Sakumo made another mistake, then things would become truly entertaining.

At that point, even Hikaru would only be able to apologize to him.

While something could happen once or twice, it could not happen a third time. But given Hatake Sakumo's current circumstances, let alone a third time, even a second time was unacceptable!!!!

"I will." Hatake Sakumo nodded and gave his assurance.

"All right, all right, everyone have some tea. Let's not talk about such serious matters. Hikaru, though, I'm rather curious about you..." Jiraiya waved his hand, interrupting Hikaru and Hatake Sakumo's conversation. It was better not to discuss such heavy topics. Everyone had unbearable memories; once the past was gone, it was gone. Bringing it up again had no meaning.

Though Jiraiya had not made it very obvious, everyone understood what he meant. Hatake Sakumo also looked at Hikaru curiously. In truth, he wanted to know why Hikaru seemed to grow younger with age while they only grew older. Could he have cultivated some forbidden technique?

Hikaru was no fool, so naturally he knew what they wanted to ask. He raised a hand to rub his nose, shrugged, leaned back lazily in his chair, and said, "It's not really much of a secret. Orochimaru knows too, but he doesn't dare