Chapter 450: Root Rebranded
Two days had passed since Arthur’s war ended.
The Leaf Village was in a state of distress about how to handle things. Of course, the daily routines of shinobi never ceased.
As the sun hung high and bright, Jasper and Alex were seen making their way down the main thoroughfare toward the Hokage Manor. The walk was a study in contrasts. Every few meters, a villager or a fellow shinobi would stop to bow or wave at Alex.
"Thank you for your hard work, Mr. Alex!" a shopkeeper called out.
"Incredible job with things!" a Chūnin added, saluting as he passed.
He offered polite nods and practiced, humble smiles. Beside him, Jasper walked with his hands in his pockets and a bored expression. The villagers’ eyes slid over him, or worse, narrowed with lingering suspicion. To them, he was just the guy standing next to the real hero.
"It’s not all bad," Alex said, nudging Jasper.
"The heck are you on about? I don’t care what they think."
"I meant your tan washed away," Alex joked. "Now they can shield their eyes when ya pass by." Jasper took a deep breath, not wishing to comment. "Still gonna keep the haircut?"
"Bro...!"
"I’m kidding! Haha."
As they continued walking, Jasper asked, "So Jada actually left, huh?"