By the time Kisame returned to Naruto, the look in his eyes had changed.
Naruto knew that burning look in Kisame's eyes all too well. It was the very same look Uchiha Itachi had worn when he first learned about red thought.
Not bad... just what I'd expect from Kisame, who wants truth, goodness, and beauty in the world.
Naruto silently quipped to himself.
Kisame walked over and asked in confusion, "Where's Mei Zheren?"
At Kisame's question, Naruto pointed toward the nearby woods. "He went for a stroll over there! He'll be back in a bit!"
With that, Naruto ran in the direction he had just pointed.
Kisame nodded, then asked Itachi and Jiraiya, "May I stay here for a few more days?"
Without another word, Jiraiya stepped forward and slung an arm around Kisame's neck. "Kid from Kirigakure, you think revolution is the only way to change this world and create a peaceful Shinobi World too, don't you?"
Kisame nodded. "That's right... I never imagined such an advanced ideological framework existed in this world. I really want to meet the great man who formulated red thought and see what he looks like!"
Just then, Naruto returned, having transformed back into Mei Zheren.
"Hey... Kisame, looks like you're getting along pretty well with everyone here!"
"Yes! Thank you so much for bringing me here."
As he spoke, Kisame fell silent for a moment, then continued, "I won't be going back to the Akatsuki! I want to stay here!"
Naruto: ...
"Hold on... aren't you working for that man who calls himself Madara? What, are you going to betray him? Didn't you say you didn't want to betray anyone again?"
Kisame looked utterly shocked by Naruto's words.
"You... you actually know about Madara?"
"Heh..." Naruto chuckled. "Of course I