Chapter 330: Self-Awakening
"Ginji, I've come to play with you."
Just as Kakashi and Ginji were having fun, a childish voice called out from afar. A little girl, her short legs pumping energetically, ran toward Ginji. The newcomer was none other than Orochimaru's family of three.
No matter how vigilant you are, there's no guarding against your daughter liking someone. Orochimaru could only rub his nose and watch as the two children embraced. A wave of jealousy washed over him. His own daughter didn't even show this level of affection when he came home.
"Oh, if it isn't the in-laws!" Kawakaze teased with his characteristic sharpness, always quick to find a person's weak spot.
"It's not even official yet, so don't call it that," Orochimaru retorted with a disgusted glance. What kind of person could this guy's son even be? he thought bitterly.
"Come and sit down quickly," Tsunade interjected warmly. "Just let them play by themselves." She gestured toward a seating area where the servant had already replaced the tea with a fresh pot.
"It's really late; I'm sorry to bother you," Pakura said softly, her demeanor now far gentler than the fearsome battlefield leader she once was. These days, she rarely went out and still carried an air of formality and reserve.
"Nonsense, this is no bother," Tsunade replied with a smile. "The more, the merrier."
Nayuki chimed in, taking up the conversation. She had always held a good impression of Pakura. "Thank you," Pakura said, accepting the tea Tsunade handed her with a gracious nod.
In stark contrast, Orochimaru took the tea Kawakaze offered him without so much as a word of thanks. His eyes, filled with contempt, seemed to suggest he'd rather devour Kawakaze whole.
"Showing up at my house empty-handed, are we?" Kawakaze teased, unfazed by the venom in Orochimaru's gaze as he continued to provoke him.