The setting sun dyed half the sky red, its lingering rays filtering through the leaves to scatter flecks of gold across the ground.
Twilight deepened, and darkness was about to envelop all of Konoha.
Outside Tsunade's Mansion~
Uchiha Lei slowed to a stop with Miru and Suiren, a barely perceptible hesitation crossing his face.
He looked at the familiar residence before him, thoughts surging through his mind!
Tsunade, Kushina, and the other women lived inside.
Now that I've brought Miru and Suiren back, how should I explain?
But just as he hesitated!
The tightly shut front door slowly opened from within.
Uchiha Mikoto stepped out from behind it.
The instant their eyes met!
Mikoto froze. When she saw Miru and Suiren beside Uchiha Lei, her pretty face changed slightly. Without a word, she swiftly shut the door behind her, even locking it.
Inside the mansion~
Mito Uzumaki narrowed her eyes slightly. Knowing what was happening, she feigned ignorance and remained silent.
Tsunade sat upright on the living room sofa, quietly sipping tea.
Kushina Uzumaki stood with one hand on her hip, curiosity written all over her face.
Hyuga Mie stood quietly and gracefully, her thoughts unknown.
Konan looked composed, someone's figure constantly appearing in her mind.
Yumiko and Karura also looked up toward the door.
Though their thoughts differed, suspicion filled all their faces.
"Mikoto, who's outside? Why did you shut the door in such a panic?"
Kushina was the first to speak, her tone full of confusion.
Tsunade raised an eyebrow and fixed Mikoto with a sharp look.
"Judging by your reaction just now, whoever's outside must be someone unusual, right?"
The women exchanged glances, unable to conceal their curiosity, then all stared at Uchiha Mikoto, waiting for her explanation.
Mikoto panicked inwardly, but forced herself to remain calm