Although the minimum charge for a VIP Private Room at Juxia Tower started at twenty thousand silver taels, Sasuke was hardly short of money.
Sasuke was not a big spender to begin with. His distinctive personality also meant he rarely bought the flashy accessories girls liked, so he had built up quite a healthy private stash over the years.
The two walked one behind the other, neither saying a word.
Despite the bustling street around them, a faintly oppressive atmosphere hung between them.
At least, that was how Shikamaru felt.
Sasuke, meanwhile, was thinking about how to tell Shikamaru the truth.
"Oh, Sasuke! How come you came alone? Where's Naruto?"
The waiter greeted Sasuke with a smile when he saw him arrive with another boy.
"He's busy training. I brought a classmate here for dinner today."
Since they had a reservation, they were soon shown into a VIP Private Room on Juxia Tower's third floor.
Compared with the first and second floors, the VIP Private Rooms on the third floor ranked among the finest restaurant accommodations in the Land of Fire, both in decor and spaciousness.
They had barely sat down, with no chance to start talking, before the dishes began arriving.
Indeed, a VIP Private Room required an advance reservation; ordering individual dishes on the spot was not an option.
On the few previous occasions Shikamaru had been lucky enough to eat at Juxia Tower, he had come with Naruto and several classmates. He always looked forward to its delicious food.
This time, however, he had something weighing on his mind. Even the exquisite dishes in the luxurious set meal failed to stir his appetite. After all, he had no idea what kind of storm Sasuke was about to unleash on him.
"Come on, eat while it's hot. It