Adopted by Tsunade [234-236] (Patreon)

Chapter 234: Petting the Cat and Kurenai’s Kiss

Hokage’s office.

It didn’t take long for Natsume to finish the affairs of Konoha.

Bored, he suddenly felt like petting his cat.

Flying Thunder God activated.

Daimyo residence, Land of Waves.

The black cat Natsume had recently adopted was sleeping on the sofa.

He raised a brow.

The cat’s eyes were dull and unfocused.

Clearly, she was in her seal space chatting with the Two-Tails, Matatabi.

Although Natsume let her move freely, without chakra there was no way she could escape the daimyo’s residence.

Even if she did, how would she leave the Land of Waves and return to Kumogakure?

Natsume walked over and stroked the black cat’s head.

She started awake, face tense and wary—then, seeing her master, retracted her claws and let out a well-behaved “Nyaa.”

Her face—anger or embarrassment, who could tell—gradually flushed.

Natsume picked her up.

The black cat struggled uneasily for a couple of moments but ultimately surrendered to his superior cat-petting technique.

She bit her tiny pink tongue, her whole body going limp.

“It’s noon—time to eat.”

Natsume patted her head.

She understood and hopped out of his arms.

“Fish it is.”

Natsume got up, went to the kitchen doorway, and called the cat.

She trotted over and rubbed her head against his leg,

though her eyes were already flashing a murderous look.

Natsume opened the fridge.

Inside were all kinds of ingredients prepared by Hinae.

Including fish.

Natsume thought for a moment and decided to make spicy fish.

The fish in the fridge happened to be blackfish.

Half an hour later, the dish was freshly done.

Natsume left the kitchen carrying the plate.

The black cat followed him.

He set the dish on the table, picked up a piece, and said, “Try it.”

The black cat looked up, some worry in her eyes, but at her master’s command, she opened her mouth and swallowed the fish.

Her dark pupils narrowed slightly.

It’s too delicious!

She reflexively licked her lips.

It was the most delicious thing she’d ever eaten.

In a different situation, she’d want to savor it properly.

“Come up and eat at the table yourself.”

Natsume glanced at her and said no more.

After lunch—

Natsume rubbed the black cat’s belly and found she was quite full.

To the point she wore a mortified expression.

After all, she hadn’t held back.

Natsume took the cat by the leash and walked her around the hall a few laps for digestion.

“Goodbye, kitty.”

He ignored the black cat, who was agitated to the extreme, and turned to leave.

With such a fierce cat, you had to keep her wanting—never rush.

Natsume then went to Hinae’s room.

Perfect time for a nap.

Two hours later, he returned to the Hokage building.

The afternoon drifted by leisurely.

At five o’clock, there was a knock.

“Lord Natsume, are you done with work?”

Kurenai entered with a smile.

“Mm.”

Natsume stood. “I’m really looking forward to Kurenai’s cooking.”

“Why do you assume I’m the one cooking?”

Kurenai walked ahead, asking as they went.

“Because Kurenai is definitely the virtuous-wife-and-good-mother type. Cooking is basic.”

Natsume said casually.

“I’ll accept Hokage-sama’s compliment.”

Kurenai opened the door, her red lips pinched into a smile; even her tone grew lighter.

She clearly liked being called a virtuous wife and good mother.

“So it really is you cooking?”

They walked side by side to the front of the Hokage building.

“Yes.”

Kurenai stopped. “We’ll need to buy groceries next, so I’ll trouble Hokage-sama to lend a hand.”

“No problem.”

Natsume clenched a fist. “Maybe not much else, but I’ve got strength.”

Kurenai glanced at his completely unmuscular arm and couldn’t help but smile.

Exactly her image of a beautiful youth.

A totally different feel from muscle men.

About half an hour later, Kurenai had bought a pile of groceries.

Natsume felt it was enough for ten people.

Kurenai opened the door and smiled. “Welcome, Hokage-sama.”

“No need to be so polite.”

With both hands full, Natsume only shook his head.

Kurenai stepped in and slipped off her heels.

Natsume could clearly see her black-stockinged feet and calves.

“Come in.”

Barefoot in stockings on the floor, Kurenai took the bags from his hands.

Natsume took off his shoes, closed the door, and entered the living room.

“Kurenai, where’s your mother?”

He glanced around but saw no one else.

“Mother went to a friend’s for dinner.”

Kurenai’s face reddened; she quickly brushed past him into the kitchen,

leaving a faint fragrance.

Natsume thought that excuse was outrageous.

The Hokage is visiting, and you go to a friend’s?
But he didn’t expose her intent.

He sat on the sofa.

Moments later, Kurenai reappeared. “Natsume, what would you like to drink? How about black tea?”

Natsume nodded. “Guest follows the host. I’m not picky.”

Kurenai knelt at the coffee table and began brewing tea.

Natsume, from above, admired the snowy-white scenery.

“Do you wear that outfit at home too?”

“No.”

Kurenai looked up, answering on reflex.

After she said it, a blush crept across her face.

Because at home, she dressed casually.

“In front of Hokage-sama, I’ll wear this set.”

Seeing his puzzled look, she explained, “Other clothes feel a bit rude.”

“Not at all.”

Natsume shook his head. “With your beauty, Kurenai, nothing you wear would be rude.”

“I…”

Kurenai trailed off.

“Or does Kurenai only see me as an outsider?”

Natsume raised a brow, smiling.

“No!”

Kurenai waved her hands. “I’ve always treated you like my own younger brother.”

As soon as she spoke, she realized she’d fallen into a trap.

“Have some tea.”

Kurenai bit her lip, set a cup before him. “I’ll go change.”

She turned into her room, leaned against the wall, cheeks hot.

“Why do I feel like a youngster’s got me wrapped around his finger?”

She patted her cheeks. “This won’t do.”

She opened the wardrobe and took out what she wore at home:

a fairly loose kimono-style loungewear.

In terms of sexiness, not as good as a pencil-skirt outfit.

But too casual.

Normally she wore just that one piece.

With Natsume here, she kept her underwear on.

Kurenai left the room.

Natsume looked up and smiled. “Very cute, totally different from your capable work look.”

“Thanks.”

Satisfied, Kurenai turned and returned to the kitchen.

Natsume drank tea, waiting for food.

He got a little bored.

After a while, he went to the kitchen.

“Need any help?”

He stood at the doorway.

“No need.”

Aproned Kurenai didn’t look back. “Leave it to me.”

“What? Afraid I’ll mess it up?”

Natsume said, “I’m actually pretty good at cooking.”

“You can cook?”

Kurenai paused.

“Of course.”

Natsume stepped forward, casually took a fish. “Watch.”

One hand holding the tail, the other slicing quickly.

Moments later, thin, even slices were done.

Kurenai’s eyes lit up.

His movements were very practiced—

not something you pick up last-minute but built up over time.

In an instant, Natsume rose further in her evaluation.

In the ninja world, such ninjas were rare.

The highest-quality husband material.

“How about that?”

Natsume asked, a bit smug.

“I underestimated you.”

Seeing his showing off, Kurenai smiled.

Still a boy at heart.

“Then I’ll leave the knife work to you.”

She thought, then said.

She actually quite liked the feeling of the two of them busy together.

It reminded her of watching her father cook long ago.

What a nostalgic time.

Natsume helping tonight gave her a sense of home.

Dinner was served.

Two people, four dishes.

“We won’t finish this.”

Natsume glanced over. “If I’d known Auntie was out, we wouldn’t have bought so much.”

“It’s fine. We can eat the rest tomorrow.”

Kurenai handed him a pair of chopsticks. “Try my cooking.”

“Mm.”

Natsume picked up a piece of fried fish, took a bite. “Tastes good.”

“Good.”

Kurenai exhaled. “Eat more—fill up. You’re still growing.”

Natsume wanted to argue but couldn’t.

He nodded and didn’t chat further.

After the meal,

Kurenai cleaned up.

Natsume tried to help but was refused, so he let her do it.

Bored, he closed his eyes and inspected his Sage Body.

With Kaguya’s help, his physique had improved.

Most obvious was the increase of pure chakra within him—

the Otsutsuki clan’s chakra.

Compared to his original chakra, it was clearly different in quality.

Like vehicles—one a truck, one a compact.

Not comparable.

Given enough time, his original chakra would be fully replaced, and his Sage Body would evolve again.

Speaking of which, he suddenly thought of Hinata Hyuga.

What she lacked seemed to be Otsutsuki chakra.

Kaguya most likely wouldn’t give her any, but he could.

Not sure if her current age and body could handle it, though.

Maybe he should head to the moon someday and take out Toneri Otsutsuki.

Kurenai finished washing and tidying, then returned to the living room.

She paused.

Natsume was leaning back on the sofa, eyes closed, seemingly asleep.

“Too tired?”

Kurenai recalled last time in the Hokage’s office he’d also slept from fatigue.

She’d even massaged him then.

Now he’d fallen asleep on her sofa.

It meant he trusted her.

Gazing at his impossibly handsome face, her heart stirred.

She bit her lip, lifted her hair, and gave him a light kiss.

Then quickly backed away, guilty and watching him.

But Natsume didn’t wake.

Kurenai’s panic subsided bit by bit.

Good thing he didn’t notice—yeah, right.

With Natsume’s level, it’d be hard not to notice.

But he didn’t call her out.

He wondered whether Kurenai would do anything more.

Unfortunately, she didn’t.

Kurenai was still a traditional kunoichi.

Natsume stopped pretending.

He opened his eyes. “When did you come back, Kurenai?”

“Just finished with the dishes.”

Kurenai smiled faintly, no different from usual.

“Oh.”

Seeing this, Natsume said, “If there’s nothing else, I’ll head back—don’t want my teacher to worry.”

Kurenai opened her mouth but couldn’t find the words.

Ask him to stay the night?

She couldn’t do that yet.

She could only watch him leave.

…

Two days later.

Natsume took time to visit the black market—aka the exchange house—of the Land of Fire’s metropolis.

He was wondering how to find Akatsuki when a young ninja approached.

Wearing a Hidden Rain forehead protector, he studied Natsume’s mask carefully and asked, “Are you Lord Takashi?”

Natsume nodded. “I am.”

“I was sent by Lady Angel to escort you.”

The young ninja spoke respectfully. “Please follow me.”

Angel—Konan.

That’s what Rain ninja called her.

Natsume followed him out of the metropolis.

“Sensei.”

Three figures landed in front of the young ninja.

Natsume raised a brow.

Three girls, quite young, with unhidden childishness on their faces.

They seemed a year or two younger than Naruto.

But they wore Rain headbands; they were likely genin.

“These are my three students,” the young ninja said. “Ajisai, Suiren, and Fuyō.”

Natsume narrowed his eyes, recalling who they were:

They took the Chunin Exams in the original story,

not Naruto’s cohort but the next, the second exam without him.

Anime characters.

Suiren and Fuyō had little plot.

Ajisai had a bit.

Though it was her corpse.

After she died, she was made into one of Pain’s Six Paths—the Animal Path.

He also remembered her summoning—a panda.

“Ajisai,” the young ninja ordered, “summon your familiars.”

“Yes.”

Ajisai bit her thumb and summoned four beasts.

All tigers.

“My lord, please.”

The young ninja gestured. “Riding summons will be much faster.”

Natsume didn’t refuse and swung onto a tiger.

They sped along.

Finally leaving Land of Fire and entering Rain, they didn’t go to Amegakure but to an unknown canyon.

“Lord Takashi, please enter.”

The young ninja stopped. “Lady Angel is waiting inside.”

Natsume twitched his lips.

Your angel lives in a cave?

What is she, a snake spirit?

But Konan not letting him into Amegakure was understandable.

Natsume entered the cave.

After a dim passage, it opened up—very spacious.

Because something huge was inside.

The Demonic Statue of the Outer Path.

The Ten-Tails’ husk.

Natsume was seeing it in person for the first time.

Past life didn’t count—that was on a screen.

Standing before it now, he could feel its enormity.

Even just a portion was enough to impress.

Only flaw: too ugly.

But the body was a tree, so fair enough.

Sheets of paper flew from afar,

coalescing into Konan before Natsume.

She didn’t explain the statue and simply told him to follow.

In a hall on the other side, Natsume saw Nagato—or more precisely, the Deva Path of Pain,

made from Yahiko’s corpse.

Orange short hair, nail-like chakra receivers on his face.

Strongest of the Six Paths, able to use the classic Rinnegan abilities: Shinra Tensei, Bansho Ten’in, and Chibaku Tensei.

“Our organization is called Akatsuki,” Konan said calmly. “This is our leader, Pain.”

“Hello, Leader.”

Natsume greeted with a smile.

Pain gave a slight nod, not bothering to speak.

“This is your ring.”

Konan tossed him a ring. “It represents your identity and codename: Three.

Three had been Hidan’s codename, but he was dead, so Natsume inherited it.

“And this ninjutsu, the Magic Lantern Body Technique.”

Konan tossed a scroll. “From now on, the leader will use the rings to assign missions.”

“Got it.”

Natsume put away the scroll and ring without wearing the latter.

“Akatsuki runs missions in pairs. Your partner is Kakuzu.”

Konan continued, ignoring his not wearing it: “How do you feel about that?”

“Not bad—he’s strong.”

Natsume nodded. “Do I have a task now?”

“Make money.”

Konan’s calm eyes blinked. “Akatsuki’s main task right now is raising funds. You’re the head of the Sunny Miles Trading Company—any ideas?”

So the cards were on the table.

Natsume smiled. “Standard commissions don’t pay much, unless it’s like Kirigakure, full-force mobilization—but the Land of Water doesn’t need that many people now.”

“No way around it?”

Konan frowned slightly.

“Not exactly.”

Natsume thought a moment. “Sunny Miles offers loans, provided there’s collateral.”

“How much could you loan?”

Konan’s heart stirred.

“At most, one billion.”

Natsume casually threw out a number, then added, “If you want more, you’ll need better assurances.”

Konan’s eyes lit up.

Black market bounties topped out in the tens of millions; Kage-level targets were at most a couple hundred million.

A billion was astronomical.

And more was possible.

“If Akatsuki wants a loan, I can make the introduction.”

Natsume went on.

Konan instinctively looked at Pain.

Nagato, behind the scenes, thought a moment and nodded.

In two years, their plan would begin.

They’d be the enemy of the world then.

Money wouldn’t need to be repaid.

Of course, Nagato considered himself principled.

He’d repay—

after they took the world.

By then, Akatsuki wouldn’t lack money and could pay.

Chapter 235: The Black Cat Meets the Little Cat

The brief meeting ended.

Nagato said nothing, keeping Pain’s cool.

With his agreement, Konan planned to seek a loan from Sunny Miles.

Before that, she, like a quest-giver, explained Akatsuki’s aims.

Whether he believed her didn’t matter.

Plenty in Akatsuki didn’t truly believe either.

“That’s the gist,” Konan said. “Anything you want to ask?”

“No.”

Natsume knew more than she did, no need to ask.

Akatsuki was like a nesting doll—

one inside another.

The final winner was Kaguya.

Oh, no.

Not her anymore, but Black Zetsu and Isshiki Otsutsuki.

Where was Black Zetsu right now?

Natsume wondered silently.

A gust sounded.

Both he and Konan showed hints of vigilance, then relaxed.

“Long time no see.”

Natsume chuckled lightly. “From your look, you remember me.”

Spatial distortion twisted, revealing masked Obito.

The exposed single eye stared at Natsume, full of killing intent.

“Uchiha Madara,” Konan said coolly. “Takashi is now a member of Akatsuki. Any personal grudges can be set aside for now.”

“Why did you let him join Akatsuki?”

Obito ground his teeth. “He’s sabotaged us multiple times—he’s the enemy of Akatsuki!”

“Food can be eaten recklessly, but words cannot be spoken recklessly.”

Natsume refuted. “I’ve sabotaged your plans, not Akatsuki’s.”

The snide tone made Obito want to cough blood.

But he didn’t dare attack.

First, the last fight left him wary of Natsume.

Without absolute certainty—or full intel—he wasn’t eager.

Second, he knew Konan was guarded against him.

If they fought, it wouldn’t be one-on-one, but one against two.

And given Konan’s bond with Nagato, he might get the full Rinnegan treatment.

“Takashi is right,” Konan said flatly, ignoring Obito’s feelings. “He has no enmity with Akatsuki. And this is Pain’s decision—if you object, take it up with him.”

Like hell he would.

Obito used Nagato as a tool but didn’t dare push too far.

It wasn’t time to reel him in.

Before then, he wouldn’t overly provoke Nagato.

“Anything else?”

Konan’s face was impassive, but inwardly she was pleased.

Obito’s strong reaction proved a deep, irreconcilable feud with Natsume.

The enemy of my enemy might be a friend.

Maybe Natsume could help her one day.

She trusted neither of them, but Obito was clearly ill-intentioned and more dangerous,

wearing Madara’s name and scheming who-knows-what.

“Recruiting anyone and everyone will doom Akatsuki—especially unknowns like him!”

Obito said angrily.

“Are you talking about yourself?”

Konan shot back.

“…”

Obito paused, speechless.

“You’ll regret this!”

Space twisted again,

and Obito vanished,

leaving a familiar-sounding threat.

Natsume felt it was a pity.

No fight.

But there’d be plenty of chances later—no rush.

“He calls himself Uchiha Madara,” Konan said to Natsume. “He’s… nominally Akatsuki.”

“Uchiha Madara?”

Natsume looked doubtful. “Are you sure he’s Madara?”

“I’m not.”

Konan shook her head. “You fought him. Do you think he is?”

“No.”

Natsume didn’t hesitate. “He’s far too weak—nowhere near Madara.”

“Did you sense who he is?”

Konan had a glimmer of hope.

“Likely a former Uchiha clansman. Who exactly, I don’t know.”

Natsume guessed.

Konan was disappointed.

That wasn’t very useful.

The Uchiha had existed for ages; there were countless clansmen. Finding which one wouldn’t be easy.

“What procedures does a Sunny Miles loan require?”

Konan returned to the point.

“Simple—sign a contract, that kind of thing.”

Natsume smiled. “The hard part is why the company would lend so much to Akatsuki.”

Konan nodded thoughtfully.

It came down to qualifications.

What would Sunny Miles want?
“When can you take me to meet your company’s top decision-maker?”

“I need time to report.”

Natsume had to decide what price to make her pay. “I’ll contact you in a while—is that okay?”

“I’ll find you.”

Konan thought for two seconds. “Are you usually in Kirigakure?”

“In a week, go to Kirigakure. I’ll meet you then.”

Natsume figured a week should do.

Konan nodded. “Do you want to meet your partner?”

“No, I’ll see him on missions.”

Natsume smiled indifferently. “If my partner were as pretty as you, Konan, maybe I’d be more enthusiastic.”

Konan glanced at him without reaction, then her body turned to paper and drifted away.

Natsume walked out of the cave.

“Lord Takashi,” the young ninja was still at the entrance. “Do you need Ajisai to take you back?”

Door-to-door service, huh.

Natsume smiled. “No need. Summons are too slow. I’ll go myself.”

He leapt and vanished.

Away from the canyon, Natsume used Flying Thunder God.

…

Daimyo residence, Land of Waves.

It was noon.

He opened the door.

Hearing the sound, Karin, who had been napping at the desk, looked up and saw him.

Her sleepy face instantly brightened.

“Natsume-nii!”

She ran over.

At ten, she was nearly to Natsume’s waist in height.

Her cute looks now had a bit of youthful sweetness.

“You pervert.”

Tayuya, who had also been napping, woke and, seeing Natsume, curled her lip.

She’d become good sisters with Karin over the years.

They just happened to be napping together today.

Natsume picked up Karin. “Why are you sleeping here?”

“Class.”

Karin wrapped her arms around his neck. “Mom was teaching me and Tayuya.”

“Where’s your mom?”

Natsume looked at the empty office chair.

“She went out for something—should be back soon.”

Karin smiled.

“Then I’ll wait.”

Natsume headed to the small desks in the corner.

“Tayuya, call him onii-san.”

Karin clung to Natsume’s neck, almost showing off.

“Hmph! No way!”

Tayuya snorted and turned away.

For some reason, she felt a little sour.

“You’re just not honest.”

Karin wanted to hop down and lecture Tayuya, but she couldn’t bring herself to let go, so she ignored it and hung from Natsume like a koala.

Their cheerful chatter continued.

Tayuya bit her lip, face dark, pen nearly snapping.

So annoying!

She didn’t know whether she was mad at Karin or Natsume.

After a while, Hinae returned and saw a strange scene:

Natsume and Karin bonding like siblings, Tayuya brimming with resentment.

Hinae couldn’t help but smile.

She knew Tayuya well.

At her age, she wouldn’t hide her emotions.

“Mom!”

Karin waved.

“You’re clinging to your brother again.”

Hinae walked over.

“No, I’m not!”

Karin pouted. “Mom spends way more time with him.”

“…”

Hinae blushed and tapped Karin’s head. “We’re discussing business.”

Tayuya almost spoke.

Are you sure it’s business?
Hinae was kind to her, so she didn’t get snarky.

But remembering those scenes, her skin felt hot.

Pervert!
Tayuya glared at Natsume.

He sensed her gaze, turned, and met her eyes.

“…”

Tayuya panicked and looked down.

“You two keep napping.”

Natsume set Karin down and patted her head. “I’ve got things to discuss with your mom.”

“Okay.”

Karin nodded reluctantly.

Natsume headed out.

 Hinae followed.

 With the office occupied, they went to a room.

 “In a few years, you’ll be a full-grown man,” Hinae said, hugging Natsume, cheek to cheek.

 “Aren’t I one now?”

 Natsume angrily latched onto her exposed breast, which she had bared for him like a nurturing offering.

 Her warm breast milk filled his mouth.

 Sweet.

 “I mean your age—you haven’t fully grown yet.”

 Hinae’s cheeks were rosy.

 “…”

 Natsume suckled in silence, drawing more of the creamy fluid from her nipple.

 Damn it!

 What do you mean, not grown?

 He decided to make Hinae take him seriously later.

 Ambition isn’t about age!

 “This reaction is exactly like a child’s.”

 Hinae pecked him and laughed. “Only kids get this mad.”

 “…”

 Natsume said nothing and continued nursing from her breasts.

 Hinae stroked his hair, eyes gentle.

 After a while, the tips of her ears reddened.

 “Why’d you come today?”

 She tried to change the subject.

 “I do have business.”

 Natsume released her nipple with a soft pop and swallowed the lingering milk. “Will a ten-billion loan affect us?”

 He hadn’t checked on Sunny Miles in a while.

 He didn’t know if pulling a billion in liquid cash would be a problem.

 “No problem.”

 Hinae smiled, held his hand. “Who’s borrowing?”

 “Akatsuki—a ninja organization.”

 Natsume leaned against her and smiled. “What price should we ask?”

 “For ten billion, we’d need a country to guarantee it,” Hinae mused. “And sign various treaties, like mining rights.”

 Sunny Miles’ loan to Kirigakure worked like that.

 As for the Land of Water—similar, but the money went into nobles’ pockets.

 They didn’t care about mines.

 In the shinobi world, only gold mines were considered valuable; others weren’t.

 “They do have a country,” Natsume said after a moment, thinking of Nagato. “But they probably won’t let us intervene.”

 “So you’re set on loaning to them?”

 Hinae looked down at his half-profile and scooted closer.

 “Yes.”

 Natsume smiled.

 “In that case, since it’s a ninja group, make them work for us,” Hinae said without asking why.

 “That’s a good idea.”

 Natsume’s eyes narrowed. “Let’s hire a kunoichi to protect you.”

 “Protect me?”

 Hinae blinked, then arched a brow. “So you’ve taken a liking to that kunoichi?”

 “Huh?”

 Natsume blurted. “Why would you think that?”

 “Because I know you.”

 Hinae smiled and pinned his hand.

 Natsume tried to struggle, but she had him.

Her grip was firm yet teasing, her body pressing against his with a warmth that ignited something deeper within him.

Hinae's eyes sparkled with mischief as she leaned in, her lips brushing his ear. "Prove me wrong, then," she whispered, her voice a silken challenge. Natsume's heart raced, his earlier frustration melting into a surge of desire.

He pulled her closer, their mouths meeting in a fervent kiss that deepened quickly, tongues intertwining with growing urgency.

She guided him to the bed, her hands deftly unfastening his clothes, revealing the lean contours of his chest and the taut lines of his abdomen. Natsume mirrored her actions, his fingers tracing the soft curves of her hips as he slipped her garments away, exposing the full, rounded swells of her breasts, their peaks hardening under his gaze.

Her skin was flawless, a canvas of porcelain smoothness flushed with arousal, her womanhood already glistening with invitation between her thighs.

He marveled at her form, his manhood stirring and hardening, its length swelling with need as he positioned himself above her.

Hinae arched her back, her legs parting to welcome him, her intimate folds parting like petals in bloom.

With a gentle thrust, he entered her, feeling the warm, velvety embrace of her depths envelop him completely. She gasped, her nails lightly scoring his back as he began to move, their bodies syncing in a rhythmic dance of passion.

Their union was intense, each motion building waves of pleasure. Natsume's hips drove deeper, his length filling her entirely, stroking the sensitive inner walls that clenched around him.

Hinae's breaths came in soft moans, her breasts rising and falling with each thrust, her nipples brushing against his chest.

She wrapped her legs around him, pulling him closer, her body trembling as ecstasy built within her.

Finally, she reached her peak, her inner muscles contracting in powerful waves of orgasm, a cry of bliss escaping her lips as her essence flowed, heightening his own sensations.

Emboldened, Natsume continued, his pace quickening until his own release overtook him.

He spilled into her with a shuddering climax, his seed pulsing warmly inside her as waves of fulfillment washed over them both.

They lingered in the afterglow, bodies entwined, sharing tender kisses and whispered affections for what felt like an eternity.

Natsume let Hinae go.

 Bold little demon, showing off in front of a master?

 She paid for her recklessness.

 Refreshed, Natsume opened the door.

“Pervert!”

Tayuya’s voice rang out.

“Your assassination skills are getting worse.”

Natsume tilted his head, dodging her punch.

“None of your business!”

Tayuya glared.

“Is this because I ignored you earlier and you want my attention now?”

Natsume asked.

“No way!”

Tayuya’s face burned.

“Guess I misunderstood.”

Natsume smiled. “If you’re fine, don’t block the way.”

“Wait!”

Tayuya blurted, “What about my punishment?”

After speaking, she flushed red as an apple.

“I… keep my promises.”

She forced herself to stay calm, so she wouldn’t faint.

Natsume looked at her.

Tayuya’s face reddened further; her heart pounded.

Ashamed yet expectant.

“I recently adopted a black cat,” Natsume said, handing her a key. “Go feed her for me. And don’t tell anyone.”

Tayuya watched him leave, then snapped out of it.

She stomped, bells at her neck jingling.

That’s it? That little punishment? Looking down on me?

And making me feed a cat.

Damn it!
Am I inferior to a cat?
She gritted her teeth and headed to the back courtyard.

Natsume hadn’t said where, but she’d investigated his residence thoroughly.

It had to be the courtyard Hinae prepared for him.

Tayuya used the key and opened the door.

Inside, the black cat raised her head at the sound and meowed instinctively.

They locked eyes.

Silence.

Chapter 236: Maid Terumi Mei

Kirigakure.

Natsume didn’t know his black cat had suffered a social death.

But it was on purpose.

To prove to Yugito Nii that he would, indeed, send outsiders to see her.

Maybe even the Fourth Raikage someday.

So even if she got mad, she could only endure.

Not only endure—she’d be more obedient.

Unless someday she stopped caring.

By then, she’d probably have fallen into darkness.

Natsume stopped.

Sunny Miles Jewelry.

After years of fishing the sea floor, the most convenient minerals to monetize were gold and silver.

Thus, the jewelry shop was born.

No modern processing equipment?

Ninja could replace it.

For ultra-fine work, leave it to the Hyuga.

That’s expertise.

With Byakugan, jewelry crafting wasn’t a problem.

Natsume pushed the door open.

A kimono-clad attendant approached with a bright smile and bow. “What can I get you, sir?”

“A necklace.”

Natsume considered.

He was buying it for Terumi Mei.

Kirigakure was poor; she wore no jewelry.

Her usual outfit was the off-shoulder tube dress; a necklace would show perfectly.

Bracelets?

She had one—but that was her SkyNet login device, not jewelry.

“Please come this way.”

She led him to the necklace section.

Two showcases full of dazzling pieces.

“Our most popular line is the Sakura brand,” the attendant said. “The favorite of the Lady Daimyo of the Land of Water.”

Natsume nodded.

Celebrity brand marketing.

He picked up the most expensive piece. “This one.”

Her eyes brightened. “Do you have a membership card? Different tiers get different discounts. If not, I can make one.”

“I do.”

Natsume produced a golden card.

“Honored guest, please wait; I’ll wrap it immediately.”

Her demeanor changed to utmost respect.

Moments later, Natsume left with the necklace for free.

Daytime, Kirigakure’s streets were bustling.

Mostly civilians; few ninja.

Even genin took six years to train.

Chunin and jonin even longer.

After two bloodthirsty Mizukage regimes, increasing ninja numbers would take years.

Quality would be decades.

Take Mizukage Chojuro—maybe even longer.

The worst for a village was a talent gap.

On that front, Konoha was least lacking.

Geniuses, wave after wave.

No wonder it’s the protagonist’s village.

At the Mizukage building, Natsume used Flying Thunder God.

Most people hadn’t seen him; barging in might get him arrested.

Terumi Mei was looking down at documents.

Hearing a rush of air, she stopped.

Only one person arrived that way: Natsume.

And his coming meant—maid outfit.

Thinking that, her heart fluttered.

“Did you come for something today?”

She looked at him, cheeks flushed, eyes uneasy.

“Came to see you.”

Natsume handed her a jewelry box. “A gift.”

“W-what is it?”

Mei took the box, shy but expectant.

“You’ll see.”

Natsume hopped lightly and sat on the Mizukage desk.

“Can’t you sit on the sofa?”

Mei opened the box.

A silver, sparkling necklace with a sakura-designed drop.

“Thank you.”

She lowered her face.

“I’ll put it on you.”

Natsume picked it up and, without asking, clasped it around her fair neck.

When his fingers touched skin, her body trembled, unaccustomed.

“Looks good.”

From above, Natsume admired the blossom blooming in the valley.

Unable to bear his heated gaze, Mei stood and fled for the moment—

not out of the office, but to the coffee table to brew tea.

“Here.”

She handed him a cup.

“Thanks.”

He took a sip—good tea,

though he didn’t care much for tea.

“Oh, I almost forgot.”

He set the cup down. “Serving tea should be done in a maid outfit. Mizukage, you didn’t forget, did you?”

“No.”

Mei sighed inwardly—what had to come would come. “Where are the clothes?”

“As expected of the Mizukage.”

Natsume produced an outfit.

“This is a maid outfit?”

Mei looked baffled.

“Yep.”

“Since when are bandages clothes?”

“There’s also a kimono top.”

“And this is a kimono? It’s only half.”

Mei glanced over and got the idea.

But how was this different from not wearing anything?
“Mizukage planning to break her word?”

Natsume raised a brow. “If so, forget it. I never force people.”

“…”

Looking at his expression, Mei’s temper flared. “I’ll wear it!”

She took the outfit and left.

Natsume hopped off the desk, took his tea, and sat on the sofa.

After a bit, Mei reappeared.

Her auburn hair was in a fluffy ponytail, her beautiful face flushed with embarrassment.

Her chest was wrapped in bandages, pressed together, hinting at white skin.

Top: a half-kimono; right side with long sleeve, left side sleeveless and off-shoulder, revealing pale shoulder and arm.

The kimono was form-fitting with a black waist belt, accenting her slender waist; the hem reached only to the hips.

Above her long pale legs was white bandage wrapping; below, black thigh-highs.

“H-how is it?”

Feeling scrutinized from all angles, she resisted the urge to flee. “I-is this okay?”

“Seven days.”

Reclining on the sofa, Natsume looked up at her. “It’s been a few minutes.”

“…”

Mei’s pupils shook.

Seven days in this?
She’d die.

“No!”

“If someone sees, my tenure as Mizukage is over!”

Under the crisis, her blush faded some.

“A maid outfit is for the master’s eyes only,” Natsume said oddly. “What are you imagining?”

Mei blinked, relieved—

then her face changed.

She stepped forward, eyes blazing. “Master? You want to be my master? Dream on!”

“You’re a maid right now.”

Natsume, amused, asked, “If I’m not your master, who is?”

“No one!”

Mei didn’t let him rope her in. “I’m the Mizukage, not anyone’s maid!”

But her bravado hid her guilt.

She had no way to deal with him and hoped he’d be cowed.

Useless.

“Mizukage, do your words not count?”

Natsume sighed. “If so, that hurts your reputation—especially with Sunny Miles.”

Damn it!
Mei clenched her fists.

Her face shifted, then she gave a shallow bow and, through gritted teeth, said, “M… Master!”

Like she was facing a mortal enemy.

But Natsume had experience.

In his past life, there were gentle maids,

and there were nasty-tempered maids.

But however nasty, they obeyed.

The contrast was great—

mouth says no, body’s honest.

“What’s with that gross expression?”

Mei flinched back. “You really are a pervert!”

That sounded familiar.

Natsume twitched his lips. “Since you think I’m a pervert, I should act the part.”

“…”

Mei froze.

First time facing such shamelessness.

For a moment, she didn’t know what to do.

“Little maid, time to pour tea.”

He pointed at the cup.

Mei came to, glared at him, but still stepped forward and bent to pick it up.

Gravity pressed white skin against bandages; her chest almost popped free.

Natsume was pleased.

“What are you looking at?”

Mei lifted her head, suppressing her anger.

“You,” Natsume said without shame.

“…”

She quickly poured the tea and straightened. “Done. Drink.”

“What’s that attitude?”

He smiled. “You should say, ‘The tea is ready—please enjoy, Master,’ and hand it to me.”

“Bastard!”

Mei finally snapped, stepped in, and threw a fist—only to stop it in front of him.

“Tsk.”

Natsume caught her hand, tugged hard, and pulled her into his arms. “Looks like the disobedient maid needs a little punishment.”

Mei instinctively struggled but suddenly went limp, frozen against him.

Natsume’s swats on her rear softened into caresses.

“Pervert!”

She leapt away like a frightened rabbit,

face red as the dawn, body trembling.

“You don’t even know what a maid should do.”

He crossed his arms.

“Why would I know that nonsense?!”

She looked at him with disdain.

“Because you.”

He smiled. “Mizukage won’t quit halfway, right?”

“I-I won’t.”

Her momentum faded. “But don’t go too far. I—I’m not… ready.”

“Do I look like that kind of person?”

He blinked.

“Who knows?”

Mei muttered.