The streets of Konoha stretched ahead, bathed in the warm glow of lanterns as evening settled over the village. Renzo walked with measured steps, his presence serene despite the watchful eyes of the ANBU in the shadows. Beside him, Taji moved with youthful energy, though his mind was clearly burdened with questions. Their meal with Hashirama and Mito had left him contemplative, and as they walked, he finally broke the silence.
"Master… what did you think of the Hokage? Of his ideals?" Taji's voice held an edge of curiosity and something deeper—perhaps uncertainty.
Renzo continued walking, his golden eyes fixed ahead. "He is a man who believes in peace through harmony, a person with lofty ideals."
Taji nodded, but his brows furrowed. "But… is that the right way? Every village we've visited—Sunagakure, Kumogakure, Kirigakure, Iwagakure—they all seem to seek something different. The Kazekage rules through necessity, controlling scarce resources. The Raikage values strength above all, making sure his people are never weak. The Mizukage… well, that place was just ruthless. They trust power over everything. And Iwagakure… they believe in endurance, in shaping the land and bending it to their will."
Renzo finally stopped and turned his gaze toward Taji. "And what do you think Konoha seeks?"
Taji hesitated before answering, "Balance? Unity? Hashirama spoke of a village that protects all its people, where shinobi aren't just weapons but family. It's different from the others."
Renzo nodded. "That is what he wishes. But ideals are shaped by those who come after. What one man builds, another may use differently."
Taji exhaled, rubbing the back of his head. "So, none of them are truly right or wrong?"
Renzo placed a hand on Taji's shoulder. "Each path reflects the fears and desires of its people. Sunagakure fears scarcity, so they protect what they have. Kumogakure fears weakness, so they grow strong. Kirigakure fears betrayal, so they trust only power. Iwagakure fears vulnerability, so they fortify themselves against all threats. And Konoha… Konoha fears division, so they seek unity."
Taji absorbed the words carefully. "And what about you, master? What is it that you seek?"
For a moment, Renzo said nothing, merely watching the swaying trees that surrounded the village, their leaves rustling softly in the night breeze. Then, he answered simply.
"Understanding."
Taji blinked. "Understanding? Of what?"
Renzo resumed walking, his steps as steady as ever. "Of everything."
Taji followed, glancing back toward the Hokage's residence in the distance. The journey continued, and though many paths had been laid before them, he had the feeling that Renzo alone walked one that no one else truly understood.