After touring the Medical Ninja Academy, Yechen walked alone into a secluded stretch of mountain forest.
Just as Obito Uchiha had said, Black Zetsu wanted to seek his cooperation.
While in Konoha, Yechen had already sensed Black Zetsu's presence, but he had shown no sign of noticing.
Even after he finished touring the Medical Ninja Academy, Black Zetsu still hadn't left. That meant his purpose really was what Obito had described.
"Come out."
Yechen stopped and looked toward a certain spot.
"I really can't hide anything from your eyes."
A figure emerged from underground. It was Black Zetsu, without White Zetsu this time. Clearly, he had left his companion behind.
"You've followed me all this way. Don't tell me it's just a coincidence."
Yechen acted as though he knew nothing.
"I wish to pledge allegiance and serve Lord Yechen," Black Zetsu replied solemnly.
That surprised Yechen a little. He hadn't expected Black Zetsu to seek cooperation this way.
Pledge allegiance to me? Not a chance I'd believe that!
"Is that so? Why?"
"You now reign supreme over the Shinobi World. Serving you is the only way to have a future."
"Serving me takes more than mere words."
Clearly, Black Zetsu had come fully prepared.
First, he explained his and White Zetsu's origins, claiming they were manifestations of Madara Uchiha's will. He also revealed all the Uchiha plans to demonstrate his sincerity.
If Yechen hadn't known what Black Zetsu really was, he might actually have been fooled.
Unfortunately for Black Zetsu, Yechen knew his origins and intentions perfectly well.
However, he had no intention of exposing him. Instead, he would turn the scheme against him.
"You're saying that as long as we revive the Ten-Tails, the God Tree will bloom and bear the God Tree Fruit, which will grant limitless power?"