September 25, Year 40 of Konoha
Today was an extremely special day.
That evening, Takahashi Yū dressed neatly, picked up his gifts, and left his comfortable Farm with Mizuki, heading for Yakiniku Q outside the Ino-Shika-Cho clan grounds.
Only Takahashi Yū and his group could set out this late. The other notable figures in Konoha had probably already arrived.
"Yo! Sakumo, my man! Kakashi!"
As Takahashi Yū and Mizuki passed the Hatake residence, it looked as though Sakumo and Kakashi had been waiting for them for quite a while.
They too held gifts and wore formal clothes. Sakumo had even put little Kakashi in a little formal outfit.
"Takahashi brother."
"Uncle Takahashi! Big Sister Mizuki!" Little Kakashi had only celebrated his second birthday ten days ago, but he already spoke clearly.
Kakashi's talent had begun showing at an early age.
Hearing Kakashi's sweet greeting, Mizuki fished some candy out of her pocket. As she handed it to him, she also gave his adorable little face a good rub.
After exchanging greetings, they set off together. Along the streets, the villagers were selling their wares at a discount too.
Today was the day their beloved Lord Danzo gained a son. Everyone ought to celebrate!
Since Lord Danzo had taken office, prices had fallen, incomes had risen, and people could even learn "self-defense" skills for free. He had thoroughly won the love of all the villagers.
As for why prices had fallen, the neighboring countries had something to say about that...
That was right!
Poor young Minato Namikaze had still failed to withstand Danzo's advances and had accepted him as his godfather!
A lonely orphan who had lived on his own since childhood had found himself pursued and cared for by the Lord Hokage he admired most.
Minato had already held out