21 Chapter 21

"Alright, we're at the village. Why do you still look like that?"

At the gate of the Konoha, Kaito looked back at Shisui walking behind him, his demeanor seeming rather absent-minded, with an air of frustration on his face.

Over these past few days, Shisui had maintained this state, appearing to be deep in thought at all times and places, often showing a startled expression after his contemplation.

Kaito had a fair idea what this was about. Could it be that this guy was still rattled by what he'd said that night?

Indeed, Kaito wasn't wrong in his guess. Shisui had indeed been scared, and not slightly!

These days, he had been constantly pondering on this matter, continuously simulating all aspects of this issue in his mind.

He even brought out all the knowledge Kaito had ever taught him for this, only to realize that Kaito's alarming words weren't at all exaggerated.

What kind of person was this Danzo, really? Shisui had interacted with him and had heard the evaluations from the elders and the clan chief in the family.

He knew that this damned old man was an extremist, one who wouldn't trust anyone easily.

Especially towards the Uchiha, this guy seemed to be even more despising and resistant, harboring no positive feelings whatsoever.

What was even more peculiar was that despite all the transgressions he had committed, he hadn't received any punishment. It was clear to see just how much trust the Third Hokage placed in Danzo.

Such a person, who profoundly distrusts everyone, despises the Uchiha, and yet has earned the Hokage's trust.

After learning of his Sharingan's abilities, Shisui could already foresee what would happen.

Perhaps this guy would not hesitate to attack him and try to steal his eyes. Such power, in the hands of a person like him, would undoubtedly be better retained, he might think.

As for his own fate, if he's lucky, he might survive, but if he returns to his clan alive, then it could be a sign for the Konoha to act against his clan.

If he dies, the outcome would be the same. The clan would still be incensed, and the internal strife between the Konoha and the clan would erupt.

It could be said that once his abilities are exposed, his own fate and that of his clan might already be determined.

Still immersed in his thoughts, Shisui was awakened by Kaito's words. He then said apologetically, "Sorry, it's my fault, I was just..."

"It's okay, I understand," Kaito shook his head helplessly, "Let's register our return home, everyone is tired."

"Yes, I understand." Shisui lifted his head to glance at the gates of the Konoha.

The gate was still as grand and imposing as ever, but looking at it, Shisui felt a different kind of emotion rise within him.

For some reason, he felt reluctant to step through it, because once he did, he would have to face the troubles within his clan again.

And, he would face troubles from the Konoha side that he had never envisioned before.

"Ah..."

With a soft sigh, he knew his thoughts were unrealistic because, after all, he was still a Konoha ninja.

He honestly followed Kaito to register their return to the village. At this point, the guards at the gate were not Izumo and Kotetsu but two unfamiliar ninjas.

The two of them didn't make things difficult for Kaito and Shisui, and soon they entered the Konoha.

Inside, the village was still bustling. Many children were happily running and playing in the streets.

Such a joyful and warm scene seemed somewhat out of place compared to Shisui's current state of mind.

Of course, Kaito saw all of this. He hadn't expected that his analytical monologue, or rather, spoilers from his 'God's eye view' would cause such a large disturbance for Shisui.

However, he didn't regret revealing this matter to Shisui. After all, it was the truth, and making him realize the harshness of reality was a good thing.

But Shisui's persistent attitude left Kaito somewhat helpless. After some thought, he simply walked over to a bookstore.

Without much thought, he randomly bought two books and came back. Although he found the bookstore owner's expression a bit peculiar, he couldn't be bothered with such details.

"Here." Without any further ado, Kaito shoved a book into Shisui's arms. "All you know now is to think wild thoughts, and that's not right."

"Huh?" Shisui was taken aback, but he instinctively caught the book Kaito handed him.

Before he had time to lower his head and see what the book was about, he heard Kaito start speaking again.

"I told you all this, not to make you overthink, but to make you aware of a fact, to make you understand your value and importance.

You trust me and told me about your ability, and I also trust you. Therefore, I must think carefully about your situation."

As he said this, Kaito paused briefly, then put his hand on Shisui's shoulder and continued speaking with a smile.

"You are a friend I've known since childhood, a classmate I've grown up with, and a competitor I've had to face from a young age.

And now, we both have those eyes within our respective families.

Perhaps it's fate's arrangement, but now we are comrades who have to work together towards an even greater goal.

But in your current state, it would be hard for us to do what we should be doing."

Kaito's words deeply moved Shisui. Indeed, their relationship from childhood had been very close and unique, both friends and rivals.

And now they've both activated the Mangekyo, which intensified Shisui's fondness for Kaito even more under these circumstances.

Especially Kaito's words deeply resonated with Shisui, perhaps this was divine intervention, meant for them to save their clan together!

Upon this realization, Shisui felt a bit ashamed. Kaito had helped him analyze and understand all this for his own good, but his actions seemed to have let Kaito down somewhat.

"I'm sorry, I won't behave like this again." Shisui took a deep breath, then sincerely promised Kaito, "I will adjust my state immediately and face the future with my best condition."

"This is the Shisui I remember, and the Shisui I need."

Seeing Shisui's attitude, Kaito was naturally very pleased. To help Shisui maintain his state, Kaito decided to paint him a picture of the future.

"The tasks we have to undertake in the future are dangerous, and once we succeed, we will need to keep each other in check.

The stories of dragon slayers turning into evil dragons are numerous. We cannot allow ourselves to become those evil dragons.

So, regardless of who becomes the clan head, the other person will be the vice clan head. His duty will be to supervise the clan head and assist in his functions.

We must always maintain our best state. Only then can we keep moving forward and eventually achieve our goals."

"Yes, I absolutely won't let you down!" As expected, Shisui was greatly inspired by Kaito's words.

When someone is lost in confusion, or even when their faith collapses, giving them a new path or even a ray of sunlight can bring hope.

Kaito had seen the zealotry of converts. Although Shisui was not in such a state, this did not prevent Kaito from using a similar approach.

"When you're feeling upset, read more books. Books can help you get rid of troubles, bring you joy, and also teach you knowledge."

Looking at Shisui now, Kaito smiled and withdrew his hand. Keeping his hand on another man's shoulder for so long felt a bit odd.

Shisui nodded earnestly. However, when he lowered his head to look at the book in his hand, his face became slightly strange.

"Kaito, are you sure you want me to read more of this book?"

"Absolutely, what's wrong?"

"But this book is called 'Intimate Paradise'!"

"What?"

//

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