CHAPTER - 78 Interview?

Zetsu couldn't help but smile, carefully observing the three of them and recalling the information on each individual.

Nagato, the one bearing Madara Uchiha's eyes. Yahiko, the founder of the Akatsuki organization, appeared to be investigating something related to him(Zetsu). Konan, is nothing particularly special, just a student of the village leader. Moreover, both Yahiko and Konan had strong ties with Nagato.

As Zetsu was about to inquire for an interview, Yahiko's curiosity was piqued. He stroked his chin thoughtfully, scrutinizing Zetsu in disguise, and asked, "You look familiar. Have we met before?"

For a moment, Zetsu's cheerful face stiffened, but he quickly regained his composure and chuckled, "Ah, it must be my ordinary appearance that gives you a sense of déjà vu. In any case, I'm here to conduct interviews on behalf of our leader. He sent me specifically to capture this important moment – your graduation."

"Leader?" Hearing that it was Akihiko behind the interview request, Yahiko's doubts vanished, and he nodded casually, saying, "If it's from sensei, then sure"

Zetsu smiled reassuringly, "I only have a few simple questions to ask, so don't be nervous." With their consent, he continued, "First, may I ask, are you all happy at school?"

"Happy!" Yahiko answered promptly, "Thanks to Akihiko-sensei, we've learned a lot here. We've gained knowledge and understood many truths. Plus, the Akatsuki Organization is now recruiting members. Once you graduate from the academy, you can join us and explore the secrets underground and uncover the mysteries of the ninja world!"

"...Please refrain from advertising during the interview, thank you" Zetsu's face stiffened as he requested, disapproving of Yahiko's attempt to promote the Akatsuki Organization.

He also inwardly sneered at Yahiko's proclamation of finding his secret. 'You want to find out about me? Just dream!' he thought. However, he remained polite on the surface and said, "Thank you for your cooperation."

Then he turned to Konan and asked, "What is your dream?"

"To no longer starve and protect everyone," Konan thought for a moment and smiled, "And... protect The Land of Grass!"

"A dream of peace?" Zetsu nodded, "A dream worth pursuing!" Then he shifted his gaze to Nagato, "How do you feel about your eyes?"

The sudden question left everyone puzzled, not understanding why Zetsu was suddenly asking about Nagato's eyes.

But soon, as a student who had received six years of compulsory education, Nagato seemed to grasp the hidden meaning. This wasn't just about his eyes; it was about his vision and ideals. He thought, 'This requires careful consideration! Is it a trap set by Akihiko-sensei?'

With a serious expression, Nagato responded, "Thank you for this opportunity, Akihiko-sensei. In the academy, we not only gained knowledge but also broadened our horizons. We learned to use our eyes to explore and understand the ninja world, and to envision a better future, not just for ourselves but for the entire ninja world!"

Zetsu felt somewhat puzzled. What was Nagato talking about when he asked about his eyes? And Why was he speaking in a high-sounding manner, like Madara-sama? Despite the confusion, Zetsu maintained a smile and thought of asking about his eyes in a different way. He asked, "Have you protected your eyes?"

"By shaping our views correctly, we can establish our ideals and follow the right path!" Nagato replied with conviction.

"...What are your plans for your eyes?" Zetsu persisted, wanting to inquire about Nagato's eyes.

"To use my eyes to observe the world, not only with my physical sight but also with my heart and mind, to perceive and understand," Nagato replied confidently.

Zetsu's mouth twitched in an annoyed manner, "...I have something to say, but I don't know if I should."

"Go ahead! We're listening," Nagato said, wondering what the interviewer wanted to say. Was it about their views or a message from Akihiko-sensei?

"Nagato, Konan, Yahiko," a familiar voice called from nearby, and Zetsu's expression immediately changed. 'Is he here?' he said inwardly as he recognized that voice.

"Thank you for your cooperation, goodbye," Zetsu hastily attempted to slip away. Never mind, it doesn't matter. As long as Madara-sama's eyes are fine, that's good enough. The rest is not his concern! Better to leave quickly before Akihiko catches him.

Hearing Akihiko's voice, the three individuals turned to look at him happily, "Akihiko-sensei!"

"What's going on with you three?" Akihiko asked, puzzled, as he observed the three standing there themselves doing nothing.

"Oh, someone from 'GrassFilm Studio' is taking our interview," Nagato responded, seemingly pointing to where the interview guy was standing before. But when he saw nothing there, a puzzled expression appeared on his face, "Huh? Where is he? He was here just a moment ago?"

Akihiko became perplexed listening to Yahiko and thought, "Did he arrange for someone to interview them? He didn't!"

Akihiko was puzzled for a moment. Could it have been arranged by someone else? Thinking of this, he couldn't help but nod, realizing that this important moment indeed needed to be recorded.

Akihiko patted the shoulders of the three of them and sighed with a tinge of emotion, "You three have also graduated. I still remember when you first came here, you were so small."

Calculating their ages, Nagato was probably only four or five years older than Kakashi. Now, Kakashi is already a well-known genius in the ninja world, while Nagato and the others have just graduated.

After all, when they were found, they were already past the age limit of six for enrollment. Moreover, According to the requirements of a ninja's education, Nagato and the others had actually met the graduation requirements a long time ago, but he just didn't let them graduate. Akihiko recalled this and sighed, "I didn't expect you all to grow up so quickly."

As soon as Akihiko finished speaking, the three of them fell into a reflective silence, their eyes becoming slightly red. Nagato and Konan, in particular, felt the strongest surge of emotions.

For Konan, Akihiko had been the one to rescue her when she was on the verge of starvation. And for Nagato, Akihiko's timely intervention had saved him and his mother from certain death when Leaf Ninjas invaded their home. As for Yahiko, he had almost met his demise while attempting theft in the market, but it was Mubuki who came to his rescue.

Back then, they had believed they would be killed by the adult ninjas, but instead, they were brought to the Land of Grass. They were sent to the academy to learn valuable skills and lead lives free from hunger and hardship.

It could be said that if it weren't for Akihiko, they wouldn't be here now. Despite his occasional annoyance, like giving them homework and testing Nagato's ninjutsu with the flowers he planted, Akihiko had truly been good to them! His guidance and care had shaped them into the people they were today, and they felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude towards their teacher.

It was hard to believe how time had flown by, and they were on the verge of graduation. Tears welled up in their eyes, and their mouths trembled with emotion as they wanted to express their gratitude to Akihiko-sensei.

However, before they could finish speaking, Akihiko interrupted their heartfelt moment with a cheerful tone. "Why are you all crying? We'll still see each other every day! You've graduated from the academy, but that doesn't mean we won't be in touch. I'll continue to be your instructor, and we'll be living in the same village. Besides, Konan, you live in my house, Nagato is just next door, and Yahiko, you're still in the village."

He continued to pat their shoulders, wearing a kind smile, "So, there's no need to worry. Here, take these flowers. You've graduated, be happy about it!" Akihiko handed each of them a bouquet of flowers.

As Akihiko finished speaking, the three of them fell silent, their mouths twitching slightly. They looked at Akihiko with a mix of appreciation and slight grievance. They couldn't help but think, 'Come on, Akihiko-sensei, can't you sense the atmosphere? You're stealing our moment of being moved'

Especially Nagato, as he looked at the familiar flowers in his hand, he suddenly realized where they came from, and his eyes became even more emotional. He couldn't help but gaze at Akihiko with a mix of grief and anger because those were the flowers he had planted.

"Hahaha, my bad. I woke up late and forgot, so I just picked some from your garden," Akihiko chuckled, noticing their expression, He then checked the time. "It's getting late. I'll go up first. Congratulations on your graduation."

With that, he turned and left. The three of them watched Akihiko's departing figure, and despite the initial frustration, their expressions softened. Akihiko may be peculiar and oblivious to atmospheres, but he was Akihiko, the one who saved them and taught them invaluable knowledge and principles.

With grateful hearts, Nagato, Konan, and Yahiko exchanged glances and smiled. Akihiko might be a handful, but he was their teacher and mentor, and they owed him more than they could ever express.

At this moment, with Akihiko's departure, the most important moment had arrived. The solemn and dignified music resounded through the entire academy grounds.

Immediately, all the children, including the parents, fell silent and directed their attention to the flag of The Land of Grass, rising and fluttering like the Grass Shinobi emblem—a tenacious little grass swaying in the wind. Raising the Grass Country flag symbolized the spirit of the New Grass.

As the proclamation of the spirit of the New Grass concluded, Akihiko stepped onto the stage, beaming at the children below. "Congratulations to all of you on your graduation. As the leader of the Land of Grass, I hope that no matter what, you will always remember the educational concept of 'virtue, moral, intelligence, physical fitness, and hard work' instilled by the Land of Grass Academy. Be the champions, the heirs, and the practitioners of the spirit of the Grass. Work diligently, fearlessly climb the peaks, and become the pillars of the Land of Grass, benefiting both the ninja world and its people!"

Looking at the hopeful and visionary children before him, Akihiko couldn't help but feel a touch of emotion. From now on, the Land of Grass would embark on a new chapter. Taking a deep breath, he turned his gaze to Nagato, who was holding flowers below, and said, "Now, let's invite the 'Outstanding Graduate' - Uzumaki Nagato - to the stage to deliver a speech!"


CHAPTER - 78.5 Mysterious Interviewer

Clearing his throat, Nagato began, "Thank you, Akihiko-sensei, for your unwavering support and mentorship throughout our time here. We are grateful for everything you've taught us, from knowledge and skills to the values that will guide us in the future."

The crowd listened attentively as Nagato continued, "As graduates of the Land of Grass Academy, we now carry the responsibility to contribute to our village and the entire ninja world. We must strive to protect our loved ones, our homes, and the ideals we hold dear. Together, we can create a world where peace and understanding prevail."

Nagato's words resonated with the audience, and some parents nodded with pride, seeing their children taking such a mature stance. Akihiko smiled warmly as he watched Nagato speak with conviction.

"We must be strong and compassionate," Nagato emphasized. "Strength is not just in physical prowess or ninjutsu, but also in the strength of our hearts and the decisions we make. Compassion reminds us to value life and to seek peaceful solutions whenever possible."

"We will continue the legacy of the Grass Shinobi Village and uphold the spirit of the New Grass," Nagato proclaimed. "We will become the symbol of hope, the protectors of the weak, and the defenders of justice!"

Nagato concluded his speech, "We will be the shinobi who bridge divides, foster understanding, and pave the way for a better future. Together, we shall prove that the Land of Grass is not just a place on the map, but a shining beacon of unity, progress, and peace in the ninja world!"

Zetsu smiled as he watched the graduation ceremony unfold on the video he had recorded earlier. "Hehehe~" he chuckled to himself, "Lord Madara's eyes became the representative of outstanding students."

He then exaggeratedly jumped and opened his hands, "Let me tell you, Lord Madara, it was very lively up there! But his way of speaking is a bit strange, Although the questions asked were very normal, he answered in a peculiar way."

Before he could continue, Madara, who had been frowning while watching, threw the signboard aside and expressed his disinterest, "Boring! A waste of time! I already said I'm not interested in this! Ninjas should focus on executing their missions. Why bother with so many tricks? After graduation, you should start performing missions and hone yourselves. This is just a waste of time!"

Zetsu couldn't help but feel a bit frustrated. "Lord Madara, you didn't say that last time!" he complained inwardly. Despite Madara's dismissive attitude, Zetsu decided to be considerate and respect his desire for rest.

"Alright, Lord Madara, please rest. I'll wake you up when it's time for class in the evening." Zetsu replied obediently.

Speaking of which, he decided to put back the borrowed camera and playback device and discreetly returned the items. He knew it would be troublesome if they were discovered missing. "Oh right, Lord Madara, do you want anything when you wake up?" he asked.

"I already told you not to buy such random things. How could I eat such random things?" Madara said annoyingly while keeping his eyes closed.

"Understood!" Zetsu nodded, acknowledging Madara's response. He then floated up and headed toward 'Grass Studio' to return the equipment he had borrowed.

Once Zetsu left, Madara slowly opened his eyes again and frowned at the discarded signboard on the floor. "I said the dumplings here are terrible." he muttered before closing his eyes once more, seemingly unbothered.

Meanwhile, Zetsu returned the borrowed equipment to 'Grass Studio' and adjusted everything back to its original state. "Done, It shouldn't be discovered now." he said to himself with satisfaction.

Afterward, he decided to continue with his daily activities, such as earning money to buy food for Lord Madara. However, he lamented that he couldn't set up his painting stall at the moment and lost his job at the factory.

Zetsu couldn't help but become frustrated at the thought of not being able to sell his paintings for money, "Really, why are those kids so curious? They even created an organization to find me. They're really bullying me!"


And at that moment, not long after Zetsu had left, the person in charge of managing 'Grass Studio' scratched his head, wearing a troubled expression, murmuring to himself, "Who could have taken the equipment without registering it? This is so unprofessional!"

Earlier, the leader had asked him if he had sent someone to the academy for an interview in the morning, but he hadn't! It didn't make sense to interview a group of graduating lower-level shinobi. After all, it was normal for ninja students to graduate and become low-ranking shinobi. Why would they need an interview?

However, upon arriving at the equipment room, he noticed that a shooting device was missing, and even the playback device seemed to have been taken. He wondered what someone could be doing with this equipment. Just playing around at home?

He questioned everyone at 'Grass Studio,' but they all denied taking the equipment. So, who could be responsible?

"It can't be some kind of haunting, can it?" The person in charge chuckled at his own silly thought. "As the leader said, don't believe in rumors, and don't spread them! Besides, as a native of the Land of Grass, I'm pretty sure the academy isn't built on a graveyard!"

As he continued to speak, his tone grew more serious. "It looks like someone is up to no good! How dare they do something like this during such an important time? Have they forgotten about the spirit of the New Grass? Once I investigate and find out who did this, I'll..."

Before he could finish his sentence, he saw a camera sitting on the counter, and he blinked in disbelief. "Why is it back here again? I'm certain no one was supposed to have been in here during this time! Could it be that a ninja snuck in and returned it?"

As he spoke, he recalled something and turned to look at the shelf where the playback devices were kept. To his surprise, the playback device was back in its place as well.

However, in that brief moment, he thought he saw something vanishing into the ground nearby. Hands, perhaps? He rubbed his eyes to confirm what he was seeing, but the neatly arranged playback device was still there. Doubt crept into his mind, "Did I... Did I just see hands coming out from the ground?"

The memory of the mysterious events at the academy flashed through his mind again, and he shivered. In a panic, he rushed outside while shouting at the top of his voice, "G-g-ghosts!"


"I probably haven't been discovered, right?" Zetsu chuckled as he looked up and noticed the terrified person scrambling out. He shrugged and scratched his head.

With his face returning to a cheerful expression, he muttered nonchalantly, "Anyway, he's looking for ghosts. What does that have to do with me, Zetsu?"

He's not a ghost. Besides, the foolish Grass Shinobi leader would probably assume it was the work of a ninja from another village. He's such an idiot, Even more, foolish than the way Lord Madara refers to Hashirama Senju.

Thinking this way, he didn't care much and submerged into the ground again, continuing his journey towards the outside. He had to find a way to earn money to support Lord Madara.