Chapter 23: Sparring
After finalizing the arrangements, Tsunade left the construction company and made her way toward the Hatake Clan. The closer she got, the clearer her memories of last night's fleeting beauty became. When she reached the spot where she had parted ways with Kawakaze the previous evening, Tsunade even reached up to wipe the corner of her mouth, as if lost in a lingering moment of recollection.
Only after calming her emotions did she approach the door and knock.
A moment later, the door opened, revealing the butler.
"Lady Tsunade, the young master is in the dojo," he said with a polite bow before walking off, clearly assuming she didn't need further guidance.
Tsunade nodded and headed straight to the dojo. Earlier that morning, Nawaki had come and gone, explaining that Orochimaru had some free time and wanted to see him. Kawakaze hadn't stopped him, knowing full well that, in the original story, Orochimaru had genuine feelings for Nawaki. If not for Nawaki's death, Orochimaru might not have delved into immortality research so quickly.
When Tsunade stepped into the dojo, she saw Kawakaze deep in conversation with Katsuyu. From the looks of it, he had already mastered the Summoning Technique.
"Kawakaze," she called softly.
"You're here," Kawakaze replied, his gaze lifting to meet hers. For some reason, both of them blushed.
"I'll take my leave for now," Katsuyu said, noticing the charged atmosphere. "When you need me, summon my clone using the Summoning Technique. Or, if it's urgent, I'll use the Reverse Summoning Technique to bring you to Shikkotsu Forest."
With a puff of smoke, Katsuyu vanished from the dojo, leaving the two standing alone.
"Have you decided to train in Senjutsu?" Tsunade asked, her voice soft and sweet as she turned her attention fully to him.