The sunlight in Konoha was as dazzling as ever.
A week had passed since Takahashi Yū returned.
Since his return, Takahashi Yū had not left his farm, eating the organic vegetables grown there and heading into the mountains with Simba to hunt game.
Sometimes Mizuki even worried that Takahashi Yū might fuse with that sofa.
He had also invited Danzo, Fugaku, and the neighbors from Hot Springs Street over for a grand outdoor barbecue in the Manor's spacious courtyard.
He had not visited Gekkō's wife, who was still in the hospital, or that born killer-Gekko Hayate.
That was because no one but Tsunade could enter that hospital room now. According to Tsunade, though, things looked good, but they needed further observation. If all else failed, they would request Orochimaru's involvement.
The sun generously spilled its light over Takahashi Farm, making it look like an oil painting.
Looking somewhat troubled, Mizuki supported Shui Ling as they walked out of the Manor. The old woman's hair had suddenly turned white over the past few days.
Mizuki could not quite accept it and pretended not to notice the change in Shui Ling.
Today, the old Uzumaki woman had suddenly wanted to take a stroll through Konoha. Under Takahashi Yū's silent gaze, she and Mizuki set off along streets they rarely visited.
"Mizuki, let's go see the current Hokage first."
Mizuki had thought Shui Ling only wanted to wander aimlessly, but as they reached central Konoha, Shui Ling suddenly spoke.
"All right."
Supporting the elder who had led them all the way out of their homeland as they fled, Mizuki felt the weight Shui Ling placed on her.
Mizuki wanted to cry.
The Uzumaki Clan's hair was a clear reflection of their vitality. If they could no longer maintain even its color, it meant