Minoru nodded. His snakes were the same way. Those in Ryuuchi Cave were wise beyond their ancient roots. They were his teachers in the art of Senjutsu, the way of the Sages. The use of a contract was not something disrespectful. It meant that Minoru held himself to a higher standard in regard to honoring and protecting them just as it meant they assisted him in times of need.

"That's probably why a contract is a good idea..."

He wasn't sure when the first contracts started or whether it was the animals or the shinobi who first suggested the idea. But it was a brilliant one.