Yahiko looked in utter confusion at Danzo, who stood nearby radiating an overbearing presence. He tried to find some clues in the man's face, but saw only a stern, inscrutable expression.
The firewood burned between them, its flames dancing and casting a red glow over Danzo's stern face.
For a moment, Yahiko stared, transfixed. He, too, had heard how Madara Uchiha had "arranged" Nagato's life.
In the Shinobi World, even three-year-olds had heard the legends of the Warring States Era's Two Great Heroes. A powerful figure like that had set his sights on the friend Yahiko had depended on since childhood.
No matter how he looked at it, accepting Lord Danzo's kindness was the best choice...
Besides, Yahiko also harbored the desire to change the Land of Rain and bring peace to the Shinobi World. He collected himself and looked at Danzo, who exuded authority.
Perhaps only a man of Lord Danzo's extraordinary ability could change the world...
I still have so far to go...
"I..." Nagato seemed to have made a decision, but looked toward Konan and Yahiko beside him, visibly hesitant.
"Rest assured."
"I, Danzo, will never stand in the way of anyone's aspirations!"
"But when ideals bear fruit too early, that fruit is often unripe..."
"Once you're capable enough, if you want to return and change your homeland, go ahead and do it!"
"Not only will I not stop you, I'll also give you my steadfast support!"
Danzo could tell at a glance that Yahiko was the leader of this little group, so he simply went straight for Yahiko's ideals.
"Lord Danzo!" Yahiko suddenly shouted.
"Please teach me! Teach me how to end war! Teach me how to bring peace to the Land of Rain!"
Yahiko dropped to both knees and prostrated himself before Danzo.
A sharp