CH - 163 'Let's stay a bit longer'

"Sasori, that was an exceptional performance," praised Akihiko, his words carrying a sincere tone of admiration.

Hanzo, standing proudly by Akihiko's side, confidently declared, "Haha, as I said, my instincts are always spot-on."

Undeterred by Hanzo's self-praise, Akihiko shifted his focus to Sasori with genuine curiosity. "I've heard you made significant contributions to improving production efficiency in the factory," he inquired.

"Certainly," Hanzo chimed in on Sasori's behalf. "This young talent caught my eye right from the beginning."

Disregarding Hanzo's interjection, Akihiko continued, "Sasori, correct? I'll remember you. Feel free to visit us."

However, Hanzo, who overheard this, swiftly interjected, thinking that Akihiko might be attempting to recruit Sasori, "Hey, back off! This young man is someone I value."

Sasori observed their exchange cautiously, particularly wary of the Grass Ninja leader, a formidable figure known for defeating ninjas from the major villages and even eliminating the Third Mizukage. His strength was undeniable. Until Sasori completed his Red Secret Technique, he doubted his ability to face them, even with the Third Kazekage by his side.

However, it appeared... he hadn't exposed himself. Yet, why did these two individuals regard him with such curious looks? Especially the renowned shinobi Hanzo—his scrutiny felt almost probing. But upon reflection, Sasori found solace in the fact that he remained undetected.

Accepting the award, Sasori received a substantial card from the Grass Ninja Leader and Rain Ninja Leader, exchangeable for a significant sum of money. As they posed for photographs, Sasori's unease lessened. It seemed he hadn't been found out, and the relief washed over him, especially upon receiving the card with a million in value. Though the Grass Ninja Leader's smile felt peculiar, it seemed he hadn't uncovered Sasori's true identity.

Glancing at the dispersing crowd, Sasori mused quietly, "Well, that was an intriguing experience."

Reflecting on his initial arrival in the Land of Grass, he recalled the rainy day when ninjas from the Rain and Grass Villages had taken him. He had a meal, a shower, and then... began the job of screwing bolts...

Lowering his gaze to the large card in his hands, Sasori realized he had earned more than a million.

"Let it be, I won't settle scores with you all," he sighed internally, gazing expressionlessly at the surroundings, his eyes tinged with a mix of emotions. "It's time to leave.."

After muttering, Sasori turned around, ready to depart, when the factory manager's voice reached him from behind, "Eh? Sasori, where are you off to?"

"I... was just thinking of taking a look around," Sasori paused briefly, glanced back at him, and replied, "Don't worry about me."

"Exactly! How could you be in the Grass Ninja Village and not explore a bit?" The manager brushed it off, cheerfully continuing, "Plus, we're only staying here for the night. Tomorrow, ninjas will escort us back. I heard Hanzo-sama will also be joining us."

Sasori's eyelids twitched at the mention of Hanzo. He knew he had to make a quick getaway, or it would complicate matters. However, before he could respond...

"It's unfortunate," the manager's voice sounded again, tinged with regret as he sighed, "I wanted to head back right away to let everyone in the factory know, so they could celebrate a bit. But just now, Leader Akihiko mentioned ensuring everyone's safety tonight and letting the guards relax a bit, so all train services are suspended. No one can leave the village!"

Sasori felt at a loss, "Huh? When did he say that? Why don't I know?"

"Oh, it was just announced a moment ago," the manager replied casually, unaware of Sasori's concern.

"What's the matter? Oh, were you planning to cash in the prize money already?" Seeing Sasori's silence, the factory manager seemed to catch on to his thoughts. He cheerfully patted Sasori's shoulder and continued, "Don't be in such a rush. Since it's a prize representing the Third Factory, you'll have to return there to claim it. Once it gets the higher-ups' approval, I'll hand the money over to you. Besides, winning first place comes with additional rewards from the factory. Haha, who would've thought, Sasori, you're quite the eager one!"

This arrangement was made for everyone's convenience, ensuring the winner could easily retrieve their prize without additional hassle. However, Sasori couldn't help but feel speechless at the manager's words. So, he had to return to the factory to get the money, no matter what?

"Let's go together," the factory manager insisted, pulling Sasori along with a smile. "It's still early. How about a stroll? I also reckon everyone's a bit hungry." The manager glanced back at the others, announcing, "Tonight, Sasori secured first place, so dinner's on me. Let's head out!"

A mix of emotions played across Sasori's face at that moment. In the end, he sighed, 'Well, let's stay a bit longer.'

…

After the event concluded, Akihiko, accompanied by Kana and others, bid farewell to Pakura and the still slightly puzzled Nono amidst the calm ambiance of the Grass Village.

On the journey home, only Akihiko, Kana, and Fuso remained. The whereabouts of the three kids were still unknown, they still hadn't returned even after the festivities ended. As the trio walked leisurely, the lingering excitement from the performances still reflected on Kana and Fuso's smiling faces.

"Good night, Akihiko-kun and Kana-san," Fuso bent down slightly, then looked at Akihiko, smiling, and said, "Sorry for bothering you today."

"Good night," Akihiko and Kana also smiled at Fuso, and then, as he was about to take Kana home.

Suddenly, "Ah, Akihiko-kun," hearing Fuso calling him from behind, Akihiko paused for a moment, and turned to look back at Fuso with confused eyes.

As she finished speaking, Fuso smiled and bent down again, "Thank you!"

Akihiko was stunned for a moment, then smiled and shook his head, "No need to thank me. Good night."

He didn't know why today Fuso was so polite. Then, he took Kana back home, who secretly winked at Fuso, and they left Fuso, who was still watching them until the door closed.

Fuso maintained her smile, tilting her head playfully. Then, she suddenly turned her head to look at the courtyard, crossing her arms. "How long do you three plan to keep watching?"

As she finished speaking, a familiar voice sounded, "Ah, as I said, we didn't need to do this. Yahiko, it was because of you, who told us to hide quickly!"

"That's right, what Nagato said is correct. It's all Yahiko's fault!" Konan chimed in, joining Nagato in accusing Yahiko.

"You two... You were clearly curious and wanted to watch secretly. You both hid yourselves obviously, so how can you blame me?" Yahiko retorted, countering both Nagato and Konan's accusations.

The three of them bickered while they came out of hiding. Konan, with a mischievous smile, embraced Fuso, apologizing, "Fuso-nee, sorry for disturbing you tonight."

Watching Konan affectionately address her mother's elder sister, a helpless expression crossed Nagato's face, thinking, 'Hey, that's my mom.'

Fuso couldn't help but laugh at the antics of the three youngsters. She pinched Konan's face, asking, "You little... When did you guys come back?"

"We just came back. Seeing Fuso-nee, Kana-nee, and Akihiko-sensei returning, Yahiko asked us to hide," Konan explained, playfully blaming Yahiko again.

"Really, what's the point of hiding?" Fuso teased, though her face turned slightly red. She pinched Konan's face again, then sighed, "We should go inside. It's cold out here, and it's getting late."

"Then, I won't disturb you guys anymore." Yahiko smiled, giving a playful wink to Nagato. "As you know, Dad brought me a little brother. Since he rarely comes back, I have to take him to school in a few days. Goodbye, Auntie Fuso. Goodbye, Nagato and Konan."

The trio bid farewell to Yahiko and made their way inside the house, still chatting about the night's events. As Nagato walked, he took a step back, glancing at the snow-covered flowers in the corner with a helpless smile. He then turned to his mom, engrossed in conversation with Konan, and his lips curled up slightly. Without saying anything, he followed them inside, reflecting on what an interesting day it was.

…

After the evening party, Rin and Obito also made their way back to the dormitory.

"I prepared this dish with the elderly in mind," Rin mentioned to Obito, her tone tinged with concern. "I really hope Madara-sensei enjoys it."

"Your cooking is fantastic; Madara-sensei will definitely appreciate it," Obito reassured her with a smile, gently patting his chest. "You don't need to worry; I'll speak with him and arrange for you to meet him next time."

"Really? I'd like to express my gratitude to Madara-sensei in person," Rin replied with a gentle smile. Glancing at the time, she added, "It's getting late. You should go now to avoid disturbing Madara-sensei's rest!"

"Alright then, sorry, Rin." Obito nodded, preparing to take his leave.

"It's okay. We've been together throughout the event. We can have a meal together tomorrow." Rin replied cheerfully.

"Then I'll head out now." Obito smiled, and as he departed, Rin waved, "Take care on the way!"

Rin observed as Obito swiftly vanished with a twist of his body. She couldn't help but smile a little, "Seems like Obito really respects Madara-sensei."

Her gaze then shifted to the still brightly lit Grass Village outside, a mixture of emotions in her eyes. She hadn't anticipated that, after becoming a rogue ninja, she would find acceptance here and lead a peaceful life with Obito.

"I wonder how Minato-sensei, Kushina-nee, and Kakashi are doing. Today is the last day of the year. Konoha must be bustling with activity too," she murmured to herself, reminiscing about them.

…

As Obito arrived at the cave, he quickly called out, "Madara-sensei, I'm back!" and made his way inside with the prepared food. "Rin made a lot of delicious dishes."

However, his surprise was evident when he noticed Zetsu sitting in front of the screen alongside both White Zetsu and Madara-sensei. He recovered and commented, "Looks like the program was really exciting. Everyone seemed to enjoy it."

"Hmph!" Madara however snorted dismissively Obito's words.

"Come on, Madara-sensei, don't be so negative. It was genuinely entertaining," Obito chuckled, brushing off Madara's reaction. He then requested Zetsu to bring a stone table and arranged the food on it. Smiling at everyone, he greeted, "Happy New Year!"