53: Should we Move

Konoha, Training Ground 7

As Kirito and Saito discussed the impending mission, Kirito's mind drifted back to the memories of his birth, and his anger became palpable. Saito noticed the change in Kirito's demeanor and asked, puzzled, "Is something wrong, kid?"

Kirito realized that Saito wouldn't allow him to embark on the mission if he knew how he felt. So he put on a calm facade and replied with a forced smile, "It's nothing, Sensei. I just got a bit angry thinking about the masked man who destroyed the village. I suspect he's quite powerful, so..."

Saito understood the turmoil in Kirito's heart. He spoke with a serious tone, "I comprehend your emotions, but that's precisely why I gave you this pill. I don't want you to use it unless you can confirm that the masked man is an Uchiha with the Mangekyo Sharingan. If you can verify his identity, only then should you consider using the pill, and only in a life-and-death situation. Do you understand?"

Kirito nodded solemnly, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. "Yes, Sensei, I understand the risks, and I appreciate you entrusting me with this pill. I'll use it wisely."

As they continued their conversation, Kirito's stomach growled loudly, signaling his hunger. Saito noticed with a smile and suggested, "It seems you're hungry, and I could use a meal myself. How about we grab some ramen? I've been away from the village for quite some time."

Kirito welcomed the idea. "Yes, let's go for ramen. It's been a while, and I'd love a bowl."

As they made their way toward the village gate, three more individuals entered Training Ground 7. Naruto was walking alongside Sadaharu, with Kakashi, dressed in his Anbu attire, by their side.

Kirito approached Kakashi, his tone serious. "Is there something wrong, Senpai?"

Kakashi reassured him, "No, I'm just here to inform you that we have a mission tomorrow morning. I'd like you to meet me at the headquarters before 6 am. Some new members will be joining us tomorrow."

Kirito nodded, acknowledging the information. "Yes, Sensei informed me about it. I'll be there."

With a nod, Kakashi said, "Alright, then let's meet at headquarters tomorrow morning," and left them to their own devices.

Turning his attention to Naruto, who was still walking alongside Sadaharu, Kirito inquired, "Are you staying here while I'm away?"

Sadaharu chimed in, "I'm not going with you on your mission, kid."

Curious, Kirito asked, "So you're going to stay behind?"

"Don't worry, I'll be visiting Koyuki. That girl needs my protection," Sadaharu explained with a reassuring nod.

Naruto's concern shifted to Kirito, who had been spending less time in the village due to his missions. He questioned, "Are you going out again, Kirito?"

Kirito extended an invitation with a dry smile, saying, "Yes, but this time, Sensei and I are going for ramen. Would you like to join us?"

Naruto's eyes lit up at the prospect of ramen. He eagerly agreed, "Let's go!"

Sadaharu, ever the meat enthusiast, added his preference, "But I want to eat meat."

Saito, accommodating as ever, reassured him, "We can buy some meat on our way."

Satisfied with the plan, Sadaharu smiled and said, "Then that's good."

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Ichiraku Ramen Shop

As Naruto, Kirito, and Saito entered Ichiraku Ramen Shop, Sadaharu, their loyal canine companion, departed for Homage Mountain to enjoy his meal while keeping an eye on the village.

Ayame, the cheerful owner of the ramen shop, greeted them warmly. Her eyes lit up with surprise and joy when she saw Kirito. "Kirito?"

Kirito smiled at Ayame and nodded. "Sister Ayame."

Her happiness was evident as she exclaimed, "Oh, you've finally returned!"

Kirito acknowledged her statement, saying, "Yes, it was a long journey this time." He took a seat, ready to enjoy a well-deserved meal.

After savoring their delicious ramen, Kirito and Naruto returned to their shared apartment.

Twins' Apartment

Upon entering their room, Kirito couldn't hide his disappointment at the state of their living space. He sighed and remarked, "I know you don't like cleaning, Naruto, but at least don't make my bed dirty."

Naruto defended himself, saying, "Hey, it's not like that. I just put my things there because I didn't have anywhere else to put them."

Kirito contemplated the situation for a moment. "Do you think we should move to a new place, where we can each have our own rooms?"

Naruto's eyes brightened at the idea. "Having our own rooms would be amazing, but where can we find a place like that?"

Kirito took charge, saying, "Leave it to me; I'll try to find a suitable place for us."

After cleaning up the cluttered room and providing Naruto with some warm clothing he had obtained during his recent mission, Kirito proposed, "We can try to make this place more comfortable for now."

Sadaharu, who had joined them, took one look at the room and voiced his displeasure, "I won't be able to fit here comfortably. I'll spend the night outside."

Understanding Sadaharu's preference, Kirito agreed, "Alright, we'll meet in the morning then."

Sadaharu nodded and ascended to the roof to spend the night under the open sky.

The Next Morning

Kirito woke up early, sending Sadaharu to Koyuki, knowing that she might require his protection. After bidding farewell to Naruto and Sadaharu, Kirito headed to the Anbu headquarters, aware of his upcoming mission.

[Note: Kirito couldn't meet any of his friends in the village due to the late hour and his mission preparations.]

Arriving at the entrance of the Anbu headquarters, Kirito found Dog waiting for him. Surprised, Kirito asked, "Captain, why are you here?"

Dog explained, "We need to hurry; this is an SSS-Rank mission, and everyone has already begun preparations. I was waiting for you here. We'll meet the team at the seaport, where they'll hire a ship to wait for us."

Kirito nodded and quickly changed into his Anbu attire. "I'll be ready in a minute."

Dog agreed, "Let's go," as fox arrived by his side.

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