Chapter 102

For a while, the conversation died down, and the three of us simply lay there, enjoying the good summer weather and the rustling of leaves.

"Ryo-nii, Oba-chan, will I be able to make friends at the academy?" Kushina unexpectedly asked shyly, still gazing up at the sky.

"Of course! Maybe not right away and not many, but one true friend is much better than a hundred acquaintances," Mito replied.

"Considering the number of new students each year, you'll definitely be able to make friends," I supported the elder, stroking the little one's hair, "just remember, if anyone dares to tease you because of the color of your beautiful hair, give them a good scolding! Or even better, call me, I'll give them some entertainment! There's nothing like a good scolding to shut up a few chatty mouths and earn respect from those around you!"

Accompanying my words, I menacingly shook my fist in the air, earning giggles from those present. Why laugh? I learned this from personal experience, putting a few same-aged clan members in their place who tried to tease me because of my hair color, which didn't conform to the majority. Kids will be kids, even in a clan of lazy geniuses.

"But only if they give you a reason," Mito warned sternly.

"Okay, Oba-chan!"

"Most importantly, never cut your luxurious hair short like some future kunoichi do," I added, "and never be ashamed to show it off— it's your pride and a sign of belonging to the Uzumaki clan, never forget that fact!"

"Oh, Ryo-chan has a weakness for long red hair," Mito smirked cunningly, "look, Kushina-chan, if you want Nii-chan to love you— never, under any circumstances, cut your hair short, otherwise, he won't marry you!"

It was pleasant to see the tomato-red Kushina, but I didn't stay silent either.

"Oh-ho! So that's why you wear your hair down, even though you always used to style it before," I countered, grinning quite smugly. "Watch out, Kushina, Oba-chan will beat you to the chase for my heart!"

Now it was time to endure teasing from the eldest Uzumaki herself— not that it was discernible from her expression, but for a moment, I noticed her glance directed my way and smiled triumphantly. One-nil in my favor!

After sealing the Nine-Tails, Mito made it a habit to tease and embarrass the little one in my presence. I understand it's to liven her up a bit and distract her from contemplating the burden of power she received with the bijuu.

True, I have suspicions about another reason, called marriage, but for now, they're just suspicions and nothing more. So, to spare Kushina from embarrassment alone, I made it a rule to tease even the Uzumaki princess herself, enjoying the process and those slightest signs that served as evidence of the experienced kunoichi losing her composure.

The ultimate goal is to make her blush, but I have a feeling it's impossible. Anyway, after rejuvenating, it became much more fun and interesting to spend time with Mito. It's as if a heavy burden has been lifted off her shoulders. In a sense, that's exactly what happened.

And the stories about her life— the two of us would listen to them for hours without interruption!

"Ryo! Oba-chan!"

Oh, the little one reached boiling point, ha-ha-ha! Her tiny fists pounded on me, and all I could do was laugh, fending off the angry toddler.

Getting creative, I knocked her to the ground and mercilessly tickled her, causing a wave of squeals and screams when she couldn't escape from me. In the end, we only calmed down after a dozen minutes, when I noticed Mito's extremely satisfied look.

However, it quickly changed to a cheerful one, and if not for the barely noticeable smile on her lips, I would have thought I was imagining things. Yeah, the elder definitely has plans for me. Glancing at the position of the sun, I sighed and got up.

"Kushina-chan, want to take a walk with me?" I had an hour or two spare before my Hiden training, so I could entertain the little one.

"Yes!"

"Where do you want to go?"

"The park!"

Nodding to Mito, expressing gratitude with a brief glance, I lifted Kushina onto my arms and headed towards the exit of the Senju district. It would be beneficial for her to meet other children, and I'll keep an eye on her safety.

Although, the main park of Konoha is always full of parents, including shinobi, so the chances of an attack on a new jinchuriki are quite low. Moreover, Uchiha patrols are also quite frequent there. Anyway, I can endure half an hour of using the sensory gift, so no one will sneak by unnoticed.

Thankfully, I started to gradually get used to the load, but headaches have become my constant companion lately.

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