บท 250: Chapter 250
Despite Nagato's usual unfathomable demeanor, a subtle softening appeared on his face as he delved into his memories.
"Back then, the three of us—me, Yahiko, and Konan—were growing and thriving under the guidance of Jiraiya. He was our master, teaching us not only ninja skills but, more importantly, instilling in us the importance of dreams."
As he spoke, Nagato couldn't help recalling the scene at that time.
His mind wandered to a summer afternoon, the sunlight filtering through leaves casting mottled light and shadow on the training field where three children and their mentor stood.
Jiraiya watched with satisfaction as his students concentrated on various ninjutsu exercises.
"Do you think we can really achieve peace, Yahiko?" Nagato asked.
Yahiko paused, gazing at the sky. "I don't know, Nagato, but we must try."
Jiraiya approached, stating, "Young people should have dreams, even if they seem impossible. The crucial factor is what you are willing to sacrifice for them."
"We're willing to give anything for it," Konan affirmed.
Resuming his narrative, Nagato continued, "With such determination, we established an organization centered on Yahiko, aiming to solve problems through peaceful means and avoid unnecessary wars and killings."
Naruto commented, "That sounds like a lofty goal."
Nagato nodded. "Yes, we felt the same way. But we overlooked the fact that in this world, there will always be someone who views your dreams as a threat."
His mind immersed in memories again.
In a dim room, Hanzo sat on an ornate chair surrounded by maps and documents. "These children are truly troublesome," he sneered, instructing his subordinates, "Are you ready?"
"Yes, everything is ready," the men confirmed.
"We didn't notice Hanzo's movements until it was too late," Nagato admitted with a heavy tone.
Returning to the past.
In the dead of night, in a secluded cabin, Nagato, Yahiko, and Konan discussed their next steps.
Suddenly, the tranquility shattered with the sound of rushing footsteps, followed by explosions and screams.
Yahiko rushed to the window and witnessed Rain Shinobi uniforms mercilessly attacking villagers.
"What does this mean?!" Yahiko exclaimed angrily.
"This is the answer Hanzo gave us," Nagato said with pain in his voice.
"Since that moment, I've understood a truth. In this cursed world, there is no real peace. Even if you refuse to use force and violence, someone will use them to destroy you," Nagato concluded.
Naruto fell into a contemplative silence before stating firmly, "Even so, I will not give up on finding the path without pain and hatred."
Naruto's gaze bore the weight of determination, his voice unwavering: "Nagato, I understand that I can never truly comprehend the pain you've endured, and I won't pass judgment on your actions. But perpetuating pain only begets more suffering, and embracing death leads only to more death. If we allow this cycle to persist, we'll lose everything in the end."
Nagato's eyes narrowed slightly, the corners of his mouth twitching as if he were poised to refute Naruto. Yet, before the words could escape him, a conversation from his past materialized in his mind.
"Young Nagato," inquired a youthful voice, "do you genuinely believe peace is attainable in this world?"
Jiraiya, his mentor, smiled, setting aside his pipe. "Peace is a lofty ideal, Nagato. It demands time, effort, and, most importantly, belief."
"Belief?" Nagato furrowed his brow.
"Yes, if everyone abandons their beliefs, true peace becomes an impossibility." Jiraiya's words carried a profound weight.
Returning to the present, Nagato shifted his gaze back to Naruto, realizing that the glimmer in the young man's eyes wasn't mere innocence; it held unwavering determination.
"Do you truly believe you can change the world?" Nagato questioned.
Without hesitation, Naruto affirmed, "I will, not just for myself, but for everyone who has endured pain, including you."
Nagato drew a deep breath, feeling a knot in his heart gently unravel.
"Very well, Naruto. If your conviction is that strong, I'm willing to give you a chance."
Naruto's eyes sparkled, but he tempered his excitement. "Thank you, Nagato. However, this opportunity isn't just for me; it's for you and the entire world."
Nagato nodded. "Perhaps you're right. We all need a chance to prove our beliefs."
Carnes observed with a slight smile, his raised eyebrows betraying a hint of amusement. "It seems this battle is growing more intriguing."
Nagato turned towards Carnes, smiling in agreement. "Indeed, it is interesting."
Witnessing this exchange, Naruto sensed that in a world dominated by pain and conflict, faith and hope stood as the ultimate salvation.
In that moment, he fortified his belief—determined to find a path devoid of pain and hatred, not just for himself but for those like Nagato who had lost hope.
As Jiraiya had once said, the worth of a dream lies in what one is willing to sacrifice for it.
Meeting Naruto's gaze again, Nagato glimpsed his younger self and the shadow of his master, Jiraiya.
It dawned on him that even in this tumultuous world, genuine peace and hope might still exist.
He grasped that achieving true peace required not only strength but also unwavering belief and boundless hope.
"Alright, today, I shall accomplish something monumental!" Nagato declared, drawing a deep breath.
Using the Gedo Art of Rinne Rebirth, he crossed his hands, reciting intricate mantras—a last resort and the culmination of his life's energy.
A formidable energy surged from Nagato's being, casting a brilliant light across the battlefield. Countless souls converged, fluttering like butterflies, disappearing into the very essence of each shield.
However, Nagato soon found himself overwhelmed with exhaustion. His strength proved insufficient to fully execute the jutsu.
Just as he was on the verge of accepting defeat, an unknown force abruptly surged into his body.
"Let me help you," Carnes offered, his voice calm yet resolute.
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