NOVEL NEXT Chapter 109: Pre Training
After spending a good portion of the day in the Hokage's office discussing important matters, time seemed to slip away. By the time we wrapped up, the sun was already beginning to set. Shikaku-ojisan headed back to his home, while Tsunade, Shizune, and I decided to return to my place.
"Mom, I'm back," I called out as I stepped inside.
She turned to greet me with a warm smile. "Oh, Naruto, you're already here! And Tsunade and Shizune are with you as well. Perfect timing—come, let's have dinner," she said, ushering us inside with her usual enthusiasm.
We walked into the house, the comforting aroma of freshly cooked food filling the air. Mom had clearly prepared something special, knowing we'd be coming.
Tsunade stretched her arms and yawned dramatically. "Ah, Kushina, you always know how to welcome us. I'm starving after all that talking today."
Shizune smiled politely. "Thank you for having us, Kushina-san. It's always a pleasure to join you."
Mom waved her hand dismissively. "Come on, Shizune, drop the formalities! You're practically family at this point. Now, sit down, all of you. Dinner's ready."
We gathered around the dining table, which was laden with a variety of dishes—grilled fish, rice, vegetables, and a steaming pot of miso soup. It was a feast, and my stomach growled audibly.
"Looks like someone's hungry," Tsunade teased, smirking at me.
"Hey, it's not my fault! Mom's cooking is too good," I said, grabbing a bowl.
As we ate, the conversation flowed naturally, shifting from casual banter to more serious topics.
"So, Naruto," Mom started, "what's the plan now that the negotiations are done? Are you going to take a break?"
I shook my head, swallowing a mouthful of rice before replying. "Not really. I still have training to do, especially with the Nine-Tails' chakra. Plus, there's the Akatsuki issue. I need to stay sharp."
Tsunade frowned. "You're really set on tackling this Akatsuki threat, aren't you?"
"Of course," I said firmly. "If we don't prepare now, it'll be too late later. But don't worry, I'll handle it."
Shizune chimed in. "Just don't overdo it, Naruto. You're strong, but even you need to pace yourself."
"Yeah, yeah, I know," I said, waving off her concern.
Mom smiled softly. "That's my boy, always thinking ahead. Just remember, we're all here for you. You're not alone in this fight."
Her words warmed my heart, and I nodded. "Thanks, Mom. I won't forget."
After dinner, we sat around the living room, chatting and laughing. Tsunade, true to form, had a small bottle of sake, which she shared with Mom. Shizune sipped tea instead, while I leaned back, enjoying the rare moment of peace.
It was moments like this that reminded me why I fought so hard—to protect this happiness, this sense of family. No matter what lay ahead, I'd make sure it lasted.
After dinner, we all retired to bed, the day's discussions and plans still lingering in my mind. As I lay on my bed, gazing at the ceiling, I let out a content sigh. The day had been long but fulfilling, and tomorrow promised new challenges.
"You really seem to have found your place here," Aurora said, her voice echoing softly in my mind.
"Yeah," I replied, closing my eyes for a moment. "This world has always been my favorite, even before I ended up here. It's surreal living in it now. But I'm not just here to enjoy it—I want to make it better, for everyone."
"You're doing a good job so far," Aurora said, her tone warm. "But tomorrow will be a real test. Befriending Kurama isn't easy, even with your knowledge."
I chuckled lightly. "He's a total tsundere, but I can handle it. Deep down, he's just a misunderstood guy who's been hurt too many times. Once he realizes I'm not like the others, I think he'll come around."
"You have the right mindset," she said. "But remember, it's not just about talking to him. He'll test you—your patience, your resolve, and your intentions. Be prepared."
"I'm ready," I said confidently. "Kurama deserves to be treated with respect, just like all the other tailed beasts. They've been through enough. If I can show him that not all humans are out to use him, it might help mend the wounds caused by the past."
Aurora was silent for a moment before replying, "You're walking a path that few would dare to tread, but I believe in you, Naruto. Rest now. Tomorrow will demand all your strength."
"Thanks, Aurora," I murmured, feeling my body relax as sleep began to take hold. "Let's do this... together."
The last thing I remembered before drifting off was the gentle glow of her presence, a comforting reminder that even in this world of challenges, I wasn't alone.
As I drifted into sleep, the night passed swiftly, and morning arrived as it always did. I woke up early, just like every day, and went through my usual morning routine, starting with a quick workout to get my blood flowing.
Once I finished, I headed back home, feeling energized and ready for the day. Tsunade was still sleeping soundly, despite the weight of her new responsibilities as Hokage. She was always the last one to wake up, her laziness something that hadn't changed even with the position she now held. But I knew that would have to change, especially with her workload.
"Mom, is breakfast ready?" I asked as I entered the kitchen, where my mom was already up and preparing food.
"Wait a minute, Naruto. I'll bring it soon," she replied, looking up from the stove.
"And wake Tsunade," she added with a small sigh. "She's still sleeping like a sloth. She needs to get up and return to the office—her work is piling up."
"Okay, Mom," I replied with a grin.
I quietly opened Tsunade's door, only to find her still snuggled under the blankets, her peaceful expression betraying the chaos she would face later in her office.
"Tsuna, it's time to wake up," I said softly, sitting down next to her bed.
She groaned and rolled over, pulling the blanket further up over her head. "Five more minutes, Naruto…" she muttered.
I chuckled lightly, knowing that her love for sleep could rival even the most dedicated of nappers. "Come on, you can't keep hiding under the covers forever. You've got a whole village depending on you," I teased, giving her shoulder a gentle nudge.
At my words, she finally stirred, her eyes squinting against the morning light. "I don't want to deal with paperwork today…" she groaned, still half-asleep.
"Too bad, the village needs its Hokage," I said with a grin. "Besides, you promised to lead them, so you gotta get up and face the day."
Reluctantly, Tsunade sat up, rubbing her eyes as she muttered, "You're so cruel, Naruto."
I laughed, standing up. "I'll leave you to get ready. Breakfast is almost done, so hurry up before mom eats it all."
Tsuna just groaned in response, but I could see the faintest smile tugging at her lips as she stretched and finally got out of bed. I left the room to let her get ready, then went to the kitchen where mom was finishing the preparations.
"She'll be out soon," I said, sitting at the table. "I had to practically drag her out of bed."
Mom laughed. "I can't believe how much of a sloth she is sometimes. But she's the Hokage, so we've got to cut her some slack."
"Yeah, but she still needs to keep her responsibilities in check," I replied, eyeing the food. "Looks good, mom."
"Eat up, Naruto. You've got a long day ahead of you," she said as she set the last dish down.
Tsuna eventually came downstairs, looking a little more awake, though she still had that grumpy look on her face.
"Alright, alright, I'm up. No need to remind me," she muttered as she sat down, helping herself to the food.
"Finally," I said, taking my seat. "I'll be heading out soon. Got some training to do."
She nodded, giving me a brief glance. "Take care of yourself, Naruto. And don't overdo it. I don't need you passing out from exhaustion."
"I won't," I assured her with a grin. "I've got this. Just… don't be late to work."
"Yeah, yeah," she grumbled, though there was a faint warmth in her tone.