Chapter 347: Rapid Development
Before they knew it, several months had passed since Nagato and the others had left. Life in Konoha remained peaceful and quiet. The Hatake Clan, while a little less lively, seemed to be adjusting to the change. Every now and then, conversations would still turn to Yahiko and the others.
"I heard that Nagato and the others are doing well in the Land of Rain," Sakumo remarked suddenly during dinner.
He wasn't prying for information, but rumors had reached him about a new force rising in the Land of Rain. Led by a group of young individuals, this force was gaining power rapidly, expanding its influence and disrupting the region's unstable status quo. Without much thought, he could already guess it was Nagato and his companions.
"It's okay," Kawakaze replied with a nonchalant smile, taking a sip of sake. "Just barely passable."
"What do you mean, it's okay? Sensei, please tell us!" Minato's eyes sparkled with curiosity. He was eager to hear something interesting, as he dearly missed his Junior Brothers and Sisters. If Kawakaze hadn't forbidden it, he might have already rushed to the Land of Rain to join Nagato's group.
"There's nothing to tell, it's not worth mentioning," Kawakaze said, his tone still carefree. "If you really want to know, ask your Sensei's wife." Despite his dismissive attitude, a faint trace of pride betrayed him.
"Dad, you look like you want a beating," Ginji said ruthlessly, giving his father a pointed look. His demeanor was cool, but his satisfaction was obvious.
"Haha, little Ginji is right," Sakumo burst into laughter at Ginji's comment, and seeing Kawakami freeze mid-sip of his drink only made him laugh harder.
"You brat..." Kawakaze didn't know whether to laugh or cry. Since when did a son openly roast his own father?
"Uncle, there's no harm in laughing when you're proud," Kakashi chimed in slowly, completely ruining Kawakami's attempt to keep his cool.
"Sensei's wife~" Minato teased, holding back his laughter as he turned to Tsunade.