"Lord Fourth Hokage, thank goodness you're here!"
Shikaichi Nara stepped out from the crowd and came before Jiuming, looking delighted. Behind Uzumaki Kuming, Kakashi and the others stared in astonishment at the people kneeling and bowing before him, unable to believe their eyes.
These were all important figures, yet they were showing Jiuming such a deep courtesy. Kakashi and the others hadn't expected anything like it. Even Mei Terumi and Kisame couldn't help exchanging a glance. They saw the same deep surprise in each other's eyes.
They were both the Kage of their respective villages, yet some of the Jonin in Kirigakure weren't nearly this respectful when they met their Mizukage.
Jiuming's standing in Konoha had probably surpassed anything they could have imagined. The title "Hokage" alone could hardly describe it.
"What's wrong? From the look of you..."
"Have you run into serious trouble?"
Jiuming raised an eyebrow slightly and asked, rubbing his chin.
"Lord Hokage, this isn't the place to discuss it."
"Perhaps..."
Shikaichi Nara came over to Jiuming and glanced discreetly at Kisame and Mei Terumi, who were bound up like bundles. He asked in a low voice.
"Mm."
"Rin, keep this guest from Kirigakure company. You can take a short walk together. Obito, keep an eye on this man. I've immobilized him, so just make sure no strangers get close."
"As for Kakashi and Itachi, you two come with me."
"Lukin, arrange for a couple of Anbu to watch them. Nothing must happen to either of them."
Jiuming released the Adamantine Sealing Chains and set Mei Terumi and Kisame on the ground. He lifted some of the Cursed Seals on Mei Terumi, allowing her to move around like an ordinary person. As for Kisame, Jiuming kept him thoroughly immobilized.
He had spent two days with Kisame and