Ōnoki's breathing grew rapid.
Before anyone could speak, Yanbai continued, "The Nine Tailed Beasts are my pets, my family, and my friends. But they aren't human, after all. To get along with humans, they won't deliberately kill you, even if you're the enemy, because they're afraid I'll get angry."
Ōnoki stared wide-eyed at the ground directly in front of him, not daring to look Yanbai in the eye.
Then Yanbai continued, "In the past, I had my concerns, too. I worried about my father, my brothers, Madara... I worried they would hate me for being too cruel, so I kept a low profile. I might beat you until you cried, but I would never actually kill you. I would always be that kind, adorable Princess Senju."
"I had to maintain my image of kindness, purity, and goodwill. I couldn't stain my hands with blood. I sat behind the scenes, watching people weaker than me charge into battle, sheltered behind their backs. Do you have any idea how long I held myself back?"
"But now, everyone whose opinion mattered to me is dead. I no longer have to worry about my friends and family hating me. As for you, I couldn't care less."
White roses swayed in the wind atop the "Human-Shaped Flower Basket."
The rich fragrance of roses emanated from the Third Raikage's abundant vitality.
Yanbai continued, "It is my mercy that keeps me from killing you. Surely you don't think I spare you because I'm wary of you? Killing you is actually very simple. Do you understand now?"
Someone in Kumogakure's ranks tried to step forward, only to be seized firmly by the Third Raikage's partner, Blue B.
Yanbai suddenly looked over, his gaze passing over the crowd to settle on the young Fourth Raikage A.
After the Third