What was going on today?
Who was in trouble again?
Hearing someone call his name, Chiba abruptly halted mid-step, nearly stumbling. He only managed to steady himself after his body tilted to one side.
As he turned back and opened the door, a thought involuntarily crossed his mind.
An ominous premonition arose that today would not be a peaceful one.
Hopefully, it was nothing troublesome. If it was just something like Genma, Namiashi, or Asuma's situations—something that could be handled within a day and would not take up much time—that would be fine.
With a creak, Chiba slowly raised his head and looked outside, several thoughts flashing through his mind at once.
"Good. You're home."
Before his gaze could settle, a voice tinged with relief rang out.
"Wha...!"
As the words fell, Chiba's gaze finally settled. The instant he saw the person before him, however, he froze. His eyes widened slightly, and undisguised surprise surfaced on his face.
"Sorry for suddenly coming to see you at a time like this, Chiba."
Seeing Chiba's expression, the figure outside showed a faintly apologetic smile and spoke.
"No! Please, come in, Lord Fourth Hokage."
Hearing this, Chiba hurriedly pushed the door fully open and stepped aside, gesturing for the figure outside to enter. The surprise on his face had already gained a touch of gravity.
Now the real trouble is coming.
At the same time, this thought flashed through his mind.
Standing before him at this moment was Konoha's current Hokage, the Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze.
"Excuse me."
Facing the path Chiba had cleared, Minato Namikaze dipped his head slightly before stepping inside and heading straight toward the low table.
Tch! This looks like it'll take quite a while.
Hah...
*Where there is good fortune, there is bound to be bad fortune. It