A New Path Forward

"I know you've faced some really tough times and witnessed the harshness of this world firsthand. But there's something I need to ask you: how is hurting innocent people going to fix things? How does causing pain to those not involved in your suffering help solve anything?" Naruto questioned.

"I..." Nagato began, but couldn't continue. He was at a loss for words, unable to counter Naruto's point, and his eyes reflected a hint of guilt as he looked down.

"Instead of targeting the innocent and causing them harm, just like you once were, you had the power to protect them from this corrupt system. A system run by those who crave only war and power, ignoring the suffering of the weak caused by their foolish choices. Why didn't you try to put an end to their tyranny?" Naruto questioned, his voice firm and serious.

Nagato found himself with no words to say.

Seeing Nagato's silence, Naruto spoke up, "Do you know why you didn't do that?" Naruto questioned, "It's because you're weak. You took the life of Jiraiya-sensei, who never had anything against you or peace. He was one of the people who truly believed in the dream of bringing peace to this world. But you chose to destroy him. So tell me, doesn't that make you just like the corrupt and power-hungry people in this world?"

"You're right. I was wrong," Nagato admitted, while Konan turned back, looking surprised. "But if my actions were wrong, then tell me, what's your plan to bring peace to this world and put an end to all these pointless wars?" Nagato asked.

"My plan? I've already made it clear. I'll stand against anyone who fuels the fires of war and endangers the weak. You know how capable I am, and even if I have to fight alone, I will never give up. I'll protect them with every ounce of my strength," Naruto declared.

"I will bring peace to this world. You spoke of saving it, yet lacked the power to do so. But I will make it happen!" Naruto's voice was resolute. "It's your choice, Nagato. If you continue down your path, I'll have no choice but to stop you, even if it means going to the extremes."

Nagato listened intently, the weight of Naruto's words settling in the room. A myriad of emotions flickered across his face—surprise, conflict, and a hint of admiration for Naruto's unwavering determination.

"Your words are bold, Naruto," Nagato finally replied, his voice carrying a mix of weariness and reflection. "You've shown strength and conviction that remind me of Jiraiya-sensei's hopes. But my path was forged from despair and the belief that only through shared pain can humanity truly understand each other."

He paused, contemplating the implications of Naruto's challenge. "I once believed that peace could only be achieved through control and fear, as the cycle of hatred seemed unbreakable. Yet, here you stand, embodying a different kind of power—one that seeks to unite rather than divide."

Nagato's eyes softened, acknowledging the possibility of another way. "Perhaps there is merit in your vision, a path I was too blinded by my own suffering to see. I won't lie; the scars of this world run deep, and my faith in hope is fragile. But if you're willing to bear the burden of this world's pain, then perhaps it's time for me to reconsider my path."

His voice grew quieter, almost introspective. "Will you, Naruto, succeed where I have failed? Can you truly break the cycle?"

Naruto looked directly at Nagato, his voice steady and sincere. "I know change isn't easy, but if we don't try, then we're just letting the past control us. So, what do you say, Nagato? Which side are you in ?"

Nagato looked at Naruto, his voice thoughtful and measured. "Alright, Naruto, let's see if your hope can forge a new path where mine couldn't."