Chapter 12: A Promise in the Grove
Kagenori stood before his new home, key in hand, examining the modest apartment building. The structure showed its age, but he'd been granted an entire room to himself—a significant upgrade. Sarutobi Hiruzen's efficiency surprised him; the arrangement had materialized overnight.
The building appeared otherwise empty, likely cleared specifically for him. After all, Konoha's villagers still harbored deep resentment toward him. The irony almost made him laugh aloud.
Last night, the Hokage had claimed there was "no rush" regarding the ninjutsu, yet now a ninja had explicitly instructed him to report to the Hokage Building once recovered. The unspoken urgency was palpable.
Inside, the apartment proved pleasantly furnished and complete. Sinking into the sofa, Kagenori felt a rare moment of comfort.
Glancing at the wall clock—9:00 AM—he decided against visiting the Hokage immediately. Why appear overly eager when specifically told to come after healing?
His thoughts drifted to Uzumaki Kushina's words from last night. He longed to see her again.
First, however, he needed to address his disheveled state. Returning to his old shack, he gathered his belongings, including the standard sword from the system. Remarkably, the blade bore only minor nicks despite the recent ordeal.
After transporting everything to his new home and cleansing days of hospital grime, he set out for the academy.
He arrived during lunch break. The classroom scene unfolded predictably: Uzumaki Kushina, fists clenched, was in the process of pummeling a hapless classmate.
Spotting Kagenori, her expression shifted to astonishment. "Kagenori! You're out of the hospital?!"
The name drew everyone's attention. None had known his whereabouts; none cared. Their faces showed only schadenfreude.
Releasing her victim, Kushina hurried over. "When did you wake up?"
"Last night, after you visited," Kagenori replied with a gentle smile.
Her eyes widened, cheeks flushing crimson. "B-but you were unconscious! How did you know I visited?"
Kagenori glanced meaningfully at their audience. This wasn't the place for private conversation. Reaching out, he took her hand. "Let's talk outside."
Kushina's face now glowed scarlet. Dazed, she allowed herself to be led mechanically from the classroom.
He guided her to the grove behind the academy. Releasing her hand, he noted her stunned expression—eyes glazed, seemingly stupefied.
Waving a hand before her face, he called softly, "Kushina? Earth to Kushina!"
She started, noticing his proximity, and stumbled backward. "You—you—"
Words failed her.
Kagenori smiled reassuringly. "I was unconscious, but aware. I could hear everything."
"Oh... I see..." she murmured, voice barely audible as she studied the ground.
Internal conflict raged within her. She'd resolved to befriend him, yet now stood tongue-tied. Nervous sweat beaded her forehead; faint steam seemed to rise from her heated skin.
Finding her flustered state endearing, Kagenori took a steadying breath. "Kushina," he said earnestly, "I'm ready too."
She looked up, confused.
His gaze remained steadfast. "I want to be your friend as well—friends for life! So... Kushina, will you be my friend?"
He extended his hand, awaiting her response.
Kushina's mind short-circuited completely, ears buzzing. She stood motionless, but Kagenori waited patiently, hand outstretched.
Minutes passed before her brain rebooted. Slowly, she placed her hand in his, whispering, "Okay... it's a deal. Friends for life."
His smile shone brilliantly; hers mirrored its radiance. Both cherished this first true friendship.
Internally, Kagenori vowed to protect that smile at all costs.
Initially hesitant, Kushina gradually relaxed, launching into animated accounts of recent days. Every troublemaker had been thoroughly pummeled into "rotten tomatoes." She'd even earned a new nickname at the academy: "Blood Red Pepper."
Kagenori chuckled.
Pouting, she asked, "Do you think it suits me too?"
"Of course not," he assured, still smiling. "I just think you're amazing, handling them all by yourself."
She proudly placed hands on hips. "Naturally! I've never lost a fight!"
Then her expression dimmed.
"Kushina? What's wrong?"
She twisted a strand of crimson hair, lips pursed. "Kagenori... do you think my hair is ugly?"
Placing hands on her shoulders, he met her gaze seriously. "Kushina, your hair is beautiful, and you're very cute. You'll only grow more beautiful. Never doubt yourself because of others' words. You're outstanding—no, you're the best!"
Her cheeks, finally cooling, reignited. She punched his chest lightly before turning away, hiding her face. "I'm not as great as you say."
Kagenori's smile faltered as he rubbed his sternum. Her strength was no joke—the blow had nearly winded him.
The academy bell chimed, signaling afternoon classes.
This time, Kushina seized his hand, turning with a playful grin. "Come on! Time for class!"