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Hisato stared into the flames, his mind a whirl of memories and plans. The fire crackled softly, casting long shadows across the room, but Hisato barely noticed. His thoughts were focused on what was to come—the revenge he would exact for the betrayal that had stolen Ren from him. He had discovered the truth only recently, ignited by Haruto's presence in his life. That boy had stirred something in him, something he had long buried.

The pretense was perfect. His letter had been sent, the bait laid out. He had offered to finally pass down his genjutsu to the man he once considered a friend, someone who had fought by his side and earned his trust. That trust, he now knew, had been a lie, and soon enough, that man would sit at the table, expecting a legacy. Instead, he would receive retribution.

Hisato's legacy wouldn't be passed on through peaceful teaching or mentorship. No, his genjutsu would be the instrument of his vengeance, the weapon he would use to make them understand the depth of their crime. They had sacrificed his son for their own purposes, left Ren behind like he was nothing. But they had underestimated the old man.

The flicker of the flames reflected in his eyes as he clenched his fists. They would pay for their arrogance, for thinking him weak, for believing he could be used and discarded. The village, the systems, the ones pulling the strings—they were all targets. And when he was done, the very man who had betrayed him would suffer the most.

Hisato let out a slow breath, the weight of his decision settled on his shoulders. His resolve was cold, unwavering. The time for retribution had come, and he would see it through. He thought of Kanna, Jiro, and Ren—their faces flashed before his eyes, the only comfort he had left in this world.

And soon, once his work was finished, he would be with them again.

With that thought, Hisato rose from his chair, leaving the fire to burn low as he prepared for the final act. The pretense would bring them together, but tomorrow, they would learn what it meant to betray Hisato Mura.