After the three finished discussing their plans, Shinichi and Tsunade decided to take a stroll through Uzushio Village to unwind and use the opportunity to get to know Kushina better.
Uzushio Village's streets twisted and turned, its old buildings steeped in history. At stalls on the street corners, villagers busily sold all kinds of local food and handicrafts.
The scent of fresh bread and spices filled the air. Sunlight filtered through the leaves, scattering dancing patches of light and shadow across the streets, lending them a peaceful, leisurely air.
Shinichi walked ahead, occasionally turning to look at Tsunade and Kushina, feeling relaxed and cheerful.
Tsunade seemed to have relaxed a little, wearing a smile that had been absent for some time. Now and then, she stopped to admire a handicraft.
Kushina, meanwhile, tugged at Tsunade as she told her about the things she liked.
"It may be a small village, but everyone here is close," Shinichi said softly, his gaze gentle.
Tsunade smiled and gently patted Kushina's shoulder. "Once you get to Konoha, if anyone dares to bully you, just tell them my name and your big brother Shinichi's. I guarantee they won't dare bother you again!"
Her words were lighthearted, but they carried an unyielding firmness.
Kushina laughed, gratitude shining in her eyes. "Thank you, Tsunade, big brother Shinichi. I won't let you down."
Shinichi chuckled softly, his eyes full of affection and humor. "That's right. Tsunade is Konoha's biggest brute. Nobody can take a punch from her."
He paused, then lowered his voice with an air of mystery. "But if she really does beat you up, don't expect me to step in."
Tsunade rolled her eyes at him, though a faint, helpless smile lingered on her face. "What did you say? Care to say that again?"
"Haha, just