Chapter 281: Chapter 281: Naruto's Call
While Konoha's leadership was busy strategizing and tightening security after the abduction of Shikadai, Kirito was wandering alone through the bustling streets of Konoha.
Over the past few days, Kirito had gained Naruto's trust to a certain extent. Though Naruto allowed him some freedom to roam the village, there were strict limitations on areas Kirito could approach.
Passing through the vibrant commercial street, Kirito turned a corner and stopped in front of a quaint-looking shop.
Two simple sliding wooden doors greeted him, with glass panes revealing neatly arranged items inside. Above the entrance, three pieces of cloth hung with the words "転転転" written on them.
"Does that mean 'spin'?" Kirito thought, amused.
He remembered TenTen's unique fighting style, where she often launched herself into the air, spinning while pulling out her scrolls. This move allowed her to summon weapons with a flourish and observe her opponents from above. It was as impractical as it was flashy, but TenTen loved the elegance and showmanship it brought to her battles.
"I guess this shop name suits her style perfectly. After all, this is the shop she'll own in the future. It's poetic in its way."
Peering through the glass, Kirito saw TenTen sitting at the counter, absorbed in a book. With a gentle push, he slid open the wooden door.
"Welcome!" TenTen called out reflexively. She glanced up, saw Kirito, and hesitated for a moment before putting down her book. "Welcome, feel free to look around."
Kirito wandered around the shop, inspecting the various ninja tools on display. After a few moments, TenTen approached him.
"Looking for something specific?" she asked. "I can help you find the perfect ninja tool or recommend something."
Kirito smiled at her familiar, matured face. "Do you have any special kunai?"
"Special kunai... Are you looking for something to collect?" TenTen opened a cabinet and carefully took out a uniquely designed kunai. "This one is called the 'Parent-Child Kunai.' The longer blade represents the parent, and the shorter one represents the child. Isn't it unique?"
Kirito examined the weapon. Its design seemed more ornamental than practical, with one side resembling a traditional kunai blade and the other curving like a hook. It was interesting but didn't meet his needs.
"Actually," he said, "I'm looking for a gift for my girlfriend. What do you think would be a good choice?"
TenTen's eyes lit up at his words. "A gift for your girlfriend? Really? That's so sweet! Wait right here—I have just the thing!"
She rushed to the back of the shop, her voice trailing behind her as she rummaged through boxes.
"You're the first person to pick a kunai as a gift for their girlfriend!" she called out. "These days, people hardly use ninja tools, let alone appreciate kunai. But I've got something special for you!"
While she searched, Kirito wandered to the counter displaying items marked "Not for Sale." Among them were six legendary ninja tools: the Banana Fan, the Golden Rope, the Crimson Gourd, and others.
With a glance, Kirito could tell they were genuine. Leaving these legendary artifacts out in the open... Konoha really has enjoyed peace for too long.
TenTen soon returned, holding a dazzling golden kunai.
"How about this? It's one of my personal favorites!" she said proudly.
Kirito took the kunai, admiring its craftsmanship. Made of gold and adorned with gems, the hilt featured intricately carved flowers, with a brilliant gemstone embedded at its base.
"This isn't just a weapon—it's a work of art," Kirito remarked.
"Exactly! It's perfect for a gift. If you weren't buying it for your girlfriend, I wouldn't even consider selling it," TenTen replied. "If she likes it, make sure to tell her about my shop!"
Kirito smirked. "If you like it so much, I'm sure she'll love it."
He raised the kunai. "How much for this?"
TenTen smiled and waved her hand. "No need to pay—just come back again sometime!"
Kirito chuckled, sliding the door closed as he left the shop. Though he was nearly broke after exchanging his old money for Konoha's current currency, he didn't regret the purchase. Seeing TenTen's smile was worth it.
"Life's short—might as well enjoy the small moments," he thought, pocketing the kunai.
As he was about to return to Naruto's house, an Anbu ninja suddenly appeared in front of him.
"Kirito," the masked ninja said in a low voice, "Hokage-sama requests your presence at the Hokage Building."
"It's probably related to Kara. Maybe it has something to do with the stolen files," Kirito speculated. He nodded. "Understood. I'll head there now."
The Anbu disappeared, and Kirito slipped the golden kunai into his storage dimension before making his way to the Hokage Building.
To Kirito's surprise, he wasn't taken to Naruto's office but to an interrogation room.
Outside the room, he spotted Boruto and Kawaki, along with a scientist in a white coat and a girl with long purple hair.
"Kirito, you're here too!" Boruto greeted with a smile.
"What's going on?" Kirito asked.
"It's Amado," Kawaki explained. "He's the head of Kara's Technology Division, and he just turned himself in to Konoha."
Kirito turned to look through the one-way glass of the interrogation room. Inside, a man in a black shirt and pants sat calmly, watching a projected image on the wall as Naruto and other senior Konoha officials questioned him.
(End of Chapter)