Ghostly Figure

Chapter 21: A Festival's Shadow

-3rd Person-

The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm, golden glow over Konoha as the village buzzed with excitement. It was the day of the annual festival, a time when the streets were adorned with colorful lanterns, the air filled with the scent of delicious food, and laughter echoed through every corner. For the villagers, it was a day of joy and celebration. But for some, it was also a day of opportunity.

High above the village, in a secluded tower overlooking the streets below, Danzo stood with his hands clasped behind his back. The shadows of his ANBU operatives flanked him, their masks reflecting the fading sunlight as they awaited his orders. Danzo's expression was as inscrutable as ever, his eyes cold and calculating as they swept over the scene below.

"The festival brings them all together," Danzo said, his voice low and authoritative. "Perfect timing. With the village distracted, we can proceed with our plans undisturbed."

One of the ANBU nodded, their voice muffled by the mask. "Shall we begin, Danzo-sama?"

Danzo turned away from the window, his mind already several steps ahead. "Yes. Ensure everything is in place. The festival will provide the cover we need."

The ANBU vanished as silently as they had appeared, leaving Danzo alone with his thoughts. His gaze returned to the village, watching as the lanterns flickered to life, casting a warm, inviting glow over the bustling streets. A small, satisfied smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.

"The perfect time, indeed," he murmured to himself, before turning away and disappearing into the shadows.

~~~

Meanwhile, in the heart of the village, Yui stood at the edge of the bustling street, her heart pounding as she took in the sight before her. Crowds of people moved in waves, chatting and laughing as they enjoyed the festivities. The noise was overwhelming, a cacophony of voices, music, and the occasional burst of fireworks. Yui's hands fidgeted nervously, her gaze darting from one unfamiliar face to another. The thought of stepping into that sea of people made her feel like she was about to be swallowed whole.

"Yui! There you are!" Naruto's cheerful voice broke through her thoughts. He bounded over to her, his bright smile as infectious as ever. Sasuke followed closely behind, his usual calm demeanor contrasting with Naruto's boundless energy.

"Sorry we're late," Naruto said, scratching the back of his head sheepishly. "We got held up by that old guy selling dango. Sasuke couldn't decide if he wanted one or five."

Sasuke rolled his eyes but didn't deny it. Instead, he gave Yui a small nod. "Are you ready to go?"

Yui hesitated, her eyes flicking back to the crowd. "I... I don't know," she admitted softly, her voice almost drowned out by the surrounding noise. "It's so... busy."

Kakashi wasn't able to attend with her for tonight since he had a very important meeting to attend with the Hokage, Kurenai, and the Elders about Yui.

Naruto noticed her unease and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry, Yui! We'll stick together. It'll be fun, I promise!" His enthusiasm was almost enough to make her believe it.

"Yeah," Sasuke added, his tone more subdued but sincere. "We won't let anything happen to you."

Their words offered some comfort, but Yui's anxiety still gnawed at her. With a deep breath, she nodded, though her heart was still racing. "Okay... let's go."

As they stepped into the bustling street, Yui stayed close to Naruto and Sasuke, her eyes wide as she took in the sights around her. Lanterns of all shapes and sizes hung above them, casting a warm, gentle light over the stalls and booths that lined the road. Vendors called out to passersby, offering everything from freshly grilled yakitori to intricately crafted toys. Children ran past, laughing as they chased each other with sparklers in hand.