Just then, the curtain of the ramen shop lifted, and a young figure walked in.
"Konohamaru?" Iruka looked up in surprise. "What are you doing out so late?"
"There's something I'd like to ask you, Iruka-sensei." Konohamaru smiled as he came in and sat beside Iruka. He casually picked up the teapot and poured himself a cup of water. "It's about Naruto."
"Naruto?" Iruka blinked. "He's been resting in the village lately. Why not go straight to him?"
"Actually..." Konohamaru lowered his head, looking troubled. "There's something important I need to discuss with him face-to-face, but I can't find him anywhere. I thought you might know where he'd be, since you see him so often. Sorry to come by unannounced."
Iruka thought nothing of it. He set down his chopsticks and scratched his head. "Naruto... He should be at the Third Training Ground on the east side of the village these days. He goes there to train alone every evening, then takes a walk near Kage Rock at night. Try those two places. You should find him."
"I see..." The corners of Konohamaru's mouth curved upward. "Thank you, Iruka-sensei."
An unnatural light suddenly shone in his eyes. His Genjutsu took hold without a sound. Iruka's eyes lost focus as a powerful mental force invaded his unguarded mind. Konohamaru was a descendant of the Sarutobi Clan, but his secret Anbu training had also honed his Genjutsu to a formidable level. He had quietly laid an inducement formula through the smoke filling the ramen shop. In that instant, Iruka had no chance to resist.
"Where would Naruto be right now...?" Konohamaru murmured, his voice almost gentle.
Deep in his mind, Iruka struggled for a moment, but he could not withstand the layered Genjutsu crushing his resistance. His lips moved against his will,