When Kushina woke up, everything before her was dark.
A sudden wave of panic seized her.
"My eyes!!!"
What happened to my eyes!?
Kushina suddenly sat up and screamed in panic, waving both hands around as she groped blindly.
But only a moment later, warmth reached her palm, and a large hand gently closed around hers.
"Kushina, don't be afraid. I'm here."
It was Minato's voice.
"Minato! What happened to me?" After calming down, Kushina asked anxiously, "Where am I?"
"It's all right, it's all right, it's all right." Holding Kushina, Minato consoled her repeatedly. "Your eyes were injured, but they've already been treated. They'll be fine soon."
Kushina's mind was a muddle. Her memories churned, and she felt that something was wrong. Gradually, she recalled what had happened.
Her teacher had quarreled with Insect Princess-sama, who had then imprisoned her.
After that, everyone had rescued her.
That's right, that was how it happened. Her eyes had been injured by Insect Princess-sama at the time.
Teacher must be very upset now. I have to go comfort her.
Right, and there's also Insect Princess-sama.
After realizing this, Kushina asked hesitantly, "Minato, are you all right?"
"I'm fine." Minato said, "The Fourth Hokage is merciful. He didn't blame me or the others involved."
Kushina breathed a sigh of relief.
"Get plenty of rest. The Fourth Hokage has given you an extended leave."
Kushina hugged Minato, thought it over carefully, and nodded against him.
"Mm-hmm."
Minato stroked Kushina's hair, his eyes clouded with gloom.
Teacher has been captured.
It's hard to believe, but it's the truth.
What am I supposed to do?
Outside the window, Konoha remained unchanged, bright beneath the sunlight.
Three wards away, in a private hospital room, Jiraiya sat in a wheelchair, his entire body wrapped in bandages as he