"I felt something... but that was all... Shinobi had to endure trials of blood, and fear had to be overcome too. It was only a matter of time..."
As Liuyun spoke, he noticed Kushina's strange state.
"Nana, what's wrong???"
Kushina's face was pale, and her body trembled slightly. The destruction of Whirlpool Village had dealt an enormous blow to her young heart. This psychological scar might fade with time, but it would never truly disappear.
"N-Nothing..."
Kushina forced a stiff smile.
Did my words scare her...?
Liuyun was slightly surprised. He did not know Kushina had been reminded of Whirlpool Village and thought she had simply been frightened by the future "bloody trials."
"Don't be afraid... I'll face all difficulties with you from now on."
Sensing her nervousness, Liuyun reached out and took her hand, a sunshine-like smile appearing on his face.
The warmth and strength from his hand instantly stopped Kushina's trembling, and much of the fear in her heart faded away.
"Thank you, Liuyun..."
At that moment, Kushina seemed to understand what it meant to have someone to rely on, and what... love was!
"Let's not train by the river for now. Come home with me, rest this morning and get yourself into better shape. We'll start learning Tree Climbing this afternoon."
The dark circles under Kushina's eyes were rather severe. Her little face could not hide her exhaustion, and she was in poor spirits. Liuyun guessed that she had probably suffered from insomnia again last night.
"O-Okay... I'll listen to you..."
Hearing Liuyun say they would rest in the morning, Kushina subconsciously sighed in relief. She knew her condition was poor and that she really needed a proper rest.
But when she thought about resting at Liuyun's house, her little mind began running wild uncontrollably...
*Liuyun means...