The two stopped and started along the way, chatting happily. Tenten was cheerful, lively, and easygoing. She even talked to Anyo about her dream, saying she wanted to become a powerful female ninja like Tsunade, one of the legendary Sannin.
Hearing Tenten mention Tsunade, Anyo fell silent for a long while. His survival in Shikkotsu Forest had been entirely thanks to living off Tsunade's family. From her parents to her grandfather, they had protected him on practically every front. His brush with death had noticeably changed his personality. In the past, he would have gone to see her as soon as the thought occurred to him. Now, however, he had lost his nerve...
Tsunade's words from back then still rang in his ears. Even if he went to see her, the two would most likely part on bad terms. He needed the right opportunity!
"Kurotsuchi, why did you stop talking?" Tenten asked, pretending to be angry. "Oh, I get it. You think my dream is unrealistic, that I can't reach Lady Tsunade's heights."
Anyo chuckled despite himself. "Height shouldn't be a problem. It's other areas where you'll fall far short."
"Huh, you sound like you've met her. Where do I fall short? Tell me." Tenten's interest suddenly surged.
Anyo thought for a moment before describing her. "Hmm, how should I put it? She has the sort of bosom that keeps her from seeing her toes when she looks down."
Tenten looked completely bewildered. "What does that mean? Does she set her sights high?"
"Ha!" Anyo suddenly burst out laughing. "You'll understand when you're older."
Tenten refused to let it go. "No, I want to know now."
"Kids don't need to know so much. Besides, I'm going somewhere now, and you can't follow me."
Anyo got out of the carriage and