"Going after even your own teacher?! Are you even human?!"
Iruka completely failed to notice the strange look in Teuchi's eyes. He walked over and sat across from Naruto, smiling. "Naruto, what did you need me for? You called me over so urgently."
"It's nothing much." Naruto smiled and pushed a bowl of ramen toward him. "I just wanted to treat you to some ramen, Sensei. It's been a long time since we ate together."
Iruka froze for a moment, then revealed a gentle smile. "You brat, why are you being so polite with me?"
The two ate and chatted. Iruka asked about Naruto's recent circumstances, and Naruto answered every question.
Behind them, Teuchi made ramen while staring at the two with terrified eyes.
He was starting to question his life. He felt that all the absurd things he had seen in his life combined did not compare to what he had witnessed over the past two days.
From the Hokage's outrageous remarks, to the secret plot against Danzo, to Naruto dating five women at once—and now he had even asked out a male teacher.
He felt that if he stayed any longer, these secrets would drive him insane sooner or later.
He had already begun packing his things. Once Naruto left, he planned to close the shop and flee, opening a ramen branch in the Hidden Sand Village. Konoha was simply no longer a place he could stay.
Naruto chatted with Iruka for a long time. It was not until the sun began to set that Iruka stood and left.
Naruto watched Iruka's retreating figure as the smile on his face slowly faded, his gaze becoming solemn.
He silently said in his heart:
"Goodbye, Sensei. Goodbye, Hinata. Goodbye, everyone. Wait for me to return."
*"Once I seize territory and