Chapter 56 : Sacrifice
In a hidden basement beneath Konoha, Moonlight Hayate gritted his teeth, his face flushed with pain.
Across from him, Yamanaka Kaiichi and Morino Ibiki had their hands placed gently on Hayate's head, performing a mental operation.
"Be patient, Hayate. You'll be alright soon," Kaiichi reassured.
"Aaah—!"Veins bulged on Hayate's forehead as he struggled to endure the pain.
Finally, Kaiichi and Ibiki withdrew their hands. Hayate collapsed weakly onto the ground, gasping.
Behind the glass, Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, watched in silence. Though his expression was calm, his eyes betrayed deep inner turmoil.
"I'm sorry, Hayate," the Third Hokage said as he stepped into the room.
Hayate struggled to sit upright and quickly responded, "Please don't apologize, Lord Third. You may have authorized the mission, but you also said I could refuse. This was my decision."
Hiruzen placed a hand on his shoulder and sighed. "You're a good man, Hayate. What a pity..."
Hayate smiled faintly. "If my sacrifice means Konoha's safety and the war's end, then even death is a small price to pay."
Suddenly, Haruto Itsuki burst in.