Night fell.
Konoha instead grew brighter.
The streets and alleys were filled with lights, as well as densely packed villagers and ninja attending the New Year festival.
Natsuki and the others had yet to set out and were changing into kimono at home.
"Natsuki."
Yakushi Nonō looked at the wardrobe and asked, "Which kimono would suit me better?"
"They all look good on you."
Natsuki stepped forward and hugged her from behind.
Yakushi Nonō felt a pang in her chest.
She raised her head, and tenderness and moisture appeared in her beautiful eyes.
Natsuki raised an eyebrow, sensing the contrast in her demeanor.
She was clearly so gentle normally.
"Let's attend the New Year festival first."
Natsuki withdrew his hand from her clothes.
"Mm."
Yakushi Nonō responded and took out a black kimono from the wardrobe.
She turned around and handed the kimono to Natsuki.
Natsuki froze slightly before taking it.
Yakushi Nonō looked at him, a shy smile appearing on her face.
Then she extended her hand.
The clothes on her body slipped to the floor, revealing her snowy white, graceful body before Natsuki's eyes.
Natsuki could not help recalling her melodious voice and supple skin from the previous night.
Seeing how he could not take his eyes off her, Yakushi Nonō felt happy, but she also lowered her head shyly.
Yet she spread her arms.
Natsuki immediately understood.
She wanted him to help her put on the kimono.
But her completely bare state was truly an enormous test for him.
With terrifying willpower, Natsuki helped her put on the kimono.
"Thank you."
Yakushi Nonō spoke softly.
"Wait for me a moment."
Natsuki returned to his room and quickly changed into a kimono as well.
The two left the house.
Tsunade, Uzumaki Kushina, and Nawaki had already changed into