The afternoon streets of Konoha were fairly lively.
The roadside dango shop was open as always, full of everyday warmth. Passing villagers and Genin occasionally stopped to buy a couple of skewers, enjoying the peace and stability.
With his forehead protector covering his Sharingan and his hands in his pockets, Kakashi lingered lazily outside the shop, chatting casually with its seemingly unremarkable owner.
The Shinobi World had been on edge lately. Only within Konoha could people still enjoy this peace.
Kakashi sighed softly, a trace of wistfulness in his voice. "I never imagined Nagato from the Land of Rain would actually be willing to put aside his old grudges and cooperate with Konoha."
The dango shop owner stood before the stove without a hint of a smile. His expression was flat, even slightly cold, as he spoke.
"It's a good thing for Konoha. One less powerful enemy, one more ally."
Kakashi nodded in wholehearted agreement.
"Yeah."
"But the whole Shinobi World has been so tense lately. Everyone's scared, and no one can sleep soundly."
"No one knows what crazy thing Kanae, who wiped out Kusagakure, or that mysterious Veil Organization will do next."
He scratched his head, his eyes filled with confusion.
"I honestly can't figure it out. What has the Veil Organization been after, lying low all these years?"
"They suddenly appeared and massacred a village to show their power, but they didn't seize territory or plunder resources. Their motives are completely baffling."
The dango shop owner spoke coldly, his tone utterly certain.
"No one in this world ever acts without a reason."
"They're only gathering strength while they remain inactive. Once they make their next move, we'll naturally be able to work out the Veil Organization's next plan."
Kakashi nodded in agreement, though regret still weighed on him.