Chapter 190: Chapter 190: Can You Stay Tonight?
Inside the izakaya.
(T/N: An izakaya is a type of informal Japanese bar that serves alcoholic drinks and snacks.)
Mirai took a bite of a grilled skewer, speaking casually, "Nono, how's the orphanage doing?"
"I've been a bit busy lately, so I haven't had time to check in."
Hearing this, Yakushi Nono quickly responded, "Mirai-sama, thanks to you, the orphanage is doing much better than before. Many of the children have found jobs and successfully integrated into Konoha."
"This is all because of you. You're managing the entire village now, so you must have countless matters to attend to. Please don't feel bad about the orphanage."
Under Danzo Shimura's oppressive control, the orphanage had once teetered on the edge of despair. To Danzo, the children were little more than prospective Root recruits, and those without ninja potential were treated as expendable resources.
If not for Mirai eliminating the scourges of the village—Hiruzen Sarutobi and Danzo Shimura—the orphanage might have fallen into an even darker abyss.
Thinking of this, Yakushi Nono raised her glass sincerely. "Mirai-sama, a toast to you!"
She downed the drink in one go, her cheeks tinged with a rosy hue. Her gaze toward Uchiha Mirai grew softer, a trace of daze evident in her expression.
Mirai seemed even more handsome than before.
Nono felt it all too surreal. She had never imagined that one day she would share a meal with such a legendary figure. Despite the vast disparity in their statuses, she couldn't suppress the desire to forge a connection with him.
Mirai refilled her glass and spoke up, "Nono, since the orphanage is running smoothly, what brings you here to see me this time?"
Nono's expression dimmed slightly at the question. She took a sip of her drink and softly said, "I came to ask for your help in finding a place for Kabuto to learn ninjutsu. You mentioned before that he's talented, and it's been his dream to become a ninja."
Mirai stroked his chin thoughtfully. "Hmm, well…"
Nono tensed up immediately. "Mirai-sama, is there a problem?"
Mirai shook his head. "Not really a problem. Konoha's laboratory is currently being rebuilt. I was considering placing Kabuto there and training him as a researcher instead."
Nono's eyes widened, her face lighting up with delight. "Are you serious?"
Mirai nodded. "Of course. The only question is whether Kabuto will agree."
Nono answered without hesitation, "Don't worry. Kabuto will definitely agree!"
Becoming a researcher was far better than being a ninja. The generous benefits aside, simply avoiding the dangers of the battlefield and working in a safe environment was already a dream for many.
Overjoyed by Mirai's decision, Nono eagerly lifted her glass again. "Mirai-sama, another toast! You're truly a kind person."
Mirai smiled faintly. "Since a caretaker Nono came to me personally, I naturally have to do my best."
Nono's heart pounded uncontrollably at his words. It felt as though Mirai's kindness toward her was excessive, given the difference in their statuses.
The atmosphere grew heavy with unspoken emotions.
They stayed at the izakaya until late at night. When they finally stepped out into the quiet streets, Mirai supported a slightly tipsy Nono.
"It's late, and you've been drinking. Let me take you home," Mirai said, his hand steadying her at the waist.
Feeling the warmth of his touch, Nono nodded meekly.
—
At the orphanage gate, the warmth at her waist disappeared, and Nono shivered slightly in the cold night air.
"It's cold. Hurry inside," Mirai said, his voice gentle.
Watching him, Nono—who had always devoted herself to the orphanage—felt a strange, unfamiliar sensation stirring in her heart. It was as though she had become a moth drawn to a blazing flame, unable to resist its allure.
Fueled by the lingering effects of the alcohol, Nono suddenly embraced Mirai tightly.
"Can you… not leave tonight?" she whispered, her voice barely audible.
Hearing her soft plea, Mirai's lips curled into a faint smile.
The crescent moon hung in the inky sky as if eavesdropping on this quiet moment.
—
The next morning, under Nono's gaze, Uchiha Mirai left the orphanage with Kabuto.
Feeling her unspoken reluctance, Kabuto turned back and waved. "Don't worry! I'll visit often!"
Nono remained silent, her eyes fixed on their retreating figures, her thoughts elsewhere.
"Strange. What's wrong with the Mother today?" Kabuto muttered, puzzled.
They soon arrived at a secluded part of the village.
"Orochimaru, I'll leave this child in your care," Mirai said.
"He has great potential in research. He'll be an invaluable assistant to you."
Orochimaru raised an eyebrow, intrigued. Receiving such high praise from Mirai suggested the boy was extraordinary.
Kabuto, meanwhile, was stunned. He couldn't fathom why Orochimaru was here.
Mirai patted Kabuto's head. "From now on, you're Orochimaru's assistant. Work hard and prove your worth. Don't disappoint me."
Kabuto nodded dazedly. "I understand!"
A sense of purpose welled up inside him. Life seemed to be improving every day. Not only did he now have a name, but also a unique identity of his own.
"Alright, I have other matters to attend to. I'll take my leave."
After bidding farewell, Mirai made his way to where Hashirama and Tobirama awaited.
"Mirai! I've been waiting for you!" Hashirama called out with a hearty laugh.
Clenching his fists, Mirai replied, "Let's fight!"
If his efforts so far weren't enough, he'd just keep pushing harder!
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Pls Drop some Power Stones
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