Chapter 7
Fortunately, Iruka was a good teacher. He could tell that Natsuki wasn't lying.
So he simply warned, "You're still young. Don't overdo your training—especially not at night. For now, stay focused in class and don't fall asleep again."
"Yes, sensei. Thank you, sensei."
Natsuki thanked him sincerely, rubbing his face to wake himself up a bit more.
After that, he listened carefully and even took detailed notes. Iruka noticed this and, reassured, let it go.
Once class ended, Natsuki let out a long yawn.
Shino glanced over curiously. "Did you really train that late into the night?"
Natsuki nodded mid-yawn. "Yup. I got a little too excited and didn't stop. Before I knew it, the sun was almost up."
Shino's curiosity only grew, but out of politeness, he didn't pry further. He didn't know what clan Natsuki came from, but if he was training all night without sleep, it had to be some kind of clan secret or special technique—not something polite to ask about.
Natsuki, however, suddenly seemed to think of something. He turned to Shino and smiled. "Hey, Shino... do you get a decent allowance?"
Shino was a bit puzzled but replied honestly, "Not a lot. Why? If you're short on money, I can lend you some."
Natsuki shook his head. "I'm not borrowing. I wouldn't be able to pay you back anyway. But how about this—after school today, come by my place. I've got something I want to show you. You might even be willing to spend money on it. If not, that's fine too. I mainly want to treat you to dinner—you are my first friend, after all."