Chapter 70: Kidnapping the Little Trio
"No, they have a blood feud with Konoha."
Jiraiya sipped his sake, voicing his opposition. In the original story, deep down, he might have carried a guilty conscience, having trained the three younglings for years without bringing them back to Konoha.
"I don't approve either," Orochimaru said slowly, sharing his opinion.
"You decide," Tsunade said to Kawakaze. While she felt this wasn't a wise choice, she chose to support his final decision.
"Don't worry, they're just three kids—they won't cause much trouble."
Kawakaze, however, kept silent about Nagato's Rinnegan. Revealing it would likely make Orochimaru insist on dealing with Nagato directly. The potential power it represented, coupled with the blood feud, posed too great a threat to Konoha. He wouldn't risk leaving such a hidden danger unchecked.
After that, no one spoke. They ate in silence, each lost in their thoughts. The atmosphere grew heavy and quiet.
"Can we have some more?"
Yahiko approached them cautiously, holding an empty bowl. One serving hadn't been enough for the three children.
The four adults turned to look at him, their stares unnerving. Yahiko's hand trembled slightly as he held out the bowl.
"Of course," Kawakaze said, his lips curling into a kind smile. He took the bowl, scooped another portion, and added some dried food.