Yahiko's face immediately broke into a smile when he heard Yūto agree to stay.
Their conversation about peace and strength had indeed given him an unusual sense of anticipation toward this seemingly curt Konoha ninja. Perhaps he really would hear some different insights.
"That's wonderful!" Yahiko's tone grew lighter. "It's still raining hard outside. Getting soaked wouldn't do you any good. I'll arrange a room for you to rest in right away."
He immediately turned and gestured deeper into the base. "Please follow me."
Yūto and Tsukimi exchanged a glance, and he said quietly to Yahiko, "Thank you."
The two followed Yahiko through the passage to a relatively secluded corner inside the base.
Yahiko pushed open a crude wooden door. The room before them was quite plain, even shabby.
Clearly somewhat embarrassed, Yahiko explained, "Akatsuki's funds are limited, so the accommodations are rather basic. Please forgive us. Have a seat for now. I'll arrange for someone to bring you some hot food shortly."
Yūto nodded in understanding. "Somewhere to shelter from the wind and rain is more than enough. Thank you for your trouble, Leader Yahiko."
Tsukimi quietly added her thanks.
"Then get some rest. I have a few things to take care of. I'll come back later to hear your thoughts." With that, Yahiko turned and left the room, closing the door behind him.
Once the door shut, the sound of the raindrops became even clearer.
Tsukimi immediately turned to Yūto, her brows slightly furrowed. "Yūto, why did you stay? Aren't we supposed to be looking for Madara Uchiha?"
She was somewhat puzzled. Earlier, she had been the one who wanted to hold Yūto back and observe and investigate Akatsuki further, but she had not expected him to agree so readily to stay. He had skipped the investigation entirely.