Chapter 150: At a Loss
The group squeezed into Tsunade's house, leaving barely enough room for everyone to sit. The onlookers, undeterred, showed no intention of leaving.
Shinku Yūhi casually pulled out some melon seeds and handed one to each person. The expression on his face practically screamed, I want to hear the gossip. His behavior clashed amusingly with his typically serious demeanor.
Tsunade, exasperated, glanced at the group and shook her head. "Tell me, what's going on?" she asked, her tone tinged with resignation.
Misaki, sitting cross-legged next to Nawaki, felt like she was on trial.
"Well, here's the thing..." Nawaki began, letting go of Misaki's hand as he tried to organize his thoughts. "A Kusa Ninja wanted to take her by force because they coveted her ability to heal with her body." He paused before continuing, "I recognized she was from the Uzumaki Clan right away, so I stepped in and rescued her."
"It's good to help someone in need. My grandmother would be happy," he added, invoking Mito's name to lend credibility to his actions—and perhaps comfort himself.
"That's it?" Kawakaze asked, cracking another melon seed between his fingers. Nawaki's explanation had been unexpectedly brief.
"That's it," Nawaki confirmed, unsure of his brother-in-law's intent. To him, the situation had never been particularly complicated.
"Whatever, it's over," Kawakaze said dismissively.
With that, the group of curious onlookers dispersed, their interest fading. The tale had turned out to be nothing more than a cliché hero saves the beauty scenario, leaving them feeling it wasn't worth their anticipation. Nawaki brooded silently, dark thoughts swirling, as the crowd dwindled to just four people. Even Minato had taken his leave.
"Misaki Uzumaki, right?" Kawakaze's voice broke the silence, his tone warm as he tried to ease her visible unease.