Happy times always pass quickly, and in the blink of an eye, it was time to finish school.
Of course, this was true for the little ninjas who could play cards.
For Kushina, who spent the day grading assignments, it was another long day. However, the little incident with Obito earlier had restored some of her confidence as a teacher, so her mood was relatively good.
She had already made plans with Obito to provide him with extra lessons after school whenever they had time. To avoid accusations of favouritism, Kushina specifically warned Obito not to spread the word.
Obito readily agreed, as secret lessons after school sounded exciting.
As the school bell rang, the little ninjas, as usual, begged Kushina for a few more rounds before closing. Kushina, as usual, ruthlessly refused, enjoying the sight of everyone preparing for their "funeral."
After the dejected little ninjas left, Kushina locked the front and back doors of the classroom, then carried six duel discs in her hands, humming a song as she returned to the Sealing Jutsu office.
Upon entering, she saw Natsuhiko working on a spread-out blueprint on the table, engrossed in whatever he was doing.
"Is the sun setting in the east today? Natsuhiko, you're still here after school?"
Kushina couldn't help but jokingly say. It was surprising, as Natsuhiko was known for his philosophy of not extending classes or working overtime after school.
He would leave immediately after the end-of-class bell rang, as he believed in leaving no trace.
According to Natsuhiko, this was his last bit of stubbornness as a part-timer. Kushina, finding it amusing, shrugged it off and returned to her seat after placing the duel discs on the table.
After spending about a month with Natsuhiko, Kushina had gradually gained more insight into his personality. She knew that, despite his outward appearance as a witty and knowledgeable teacher, he had some unconventional aspects.
Especially when he got into a state of focus, he found it hard to pay attention to anything else. Therefore, although Kushina was curious about what Natsuhiko was doing, she chose not to disturb him.
Sitting at her desk, she took out a somewhat worn-out book and casually opened a page. The cover of the book read, "Daily Care and Training of Large Dogs."
This book was recommended to her by Natsuhiko some time ago. Initially puzzled, Kushina wondered why he wanted her to read a book about dog care when she didn't own a dog. Natsuhiko had mysteriously said, "The principles are universal."
Out of trust for Natsuhiko, Kushina read the book when she found the time. Soon, she had an epiphany.
"So, Master Natsuhiko wanted to tell me that when interacting with students, I should establish my 'leader' position, building authority in their minds. Just getting along with them won't earn real respect."
Not only did Kushina comprehend this principle, but she also applied it in her role as an assistant. As expected, the little ninjas became more obedient.
Indeed, the principles of the world were universal!
However, when Kushina later shared her insights with Natsuhiko, he had a very strange expression.
After a while, Natsuhiko put down his pen and stretched. When he caught sight of Kushina's silhouette, his expression turned somewhat surprised.
"Hey, when did you come back? I didn't notice."
Kushina, with a helpless expression, put the book down.
"I've been back for a while. You even greeted me when I came in. Don't you remember?"
Natsuhiko was momentarily puzzled, then said, "Really? It seems I was too engrossed and forgot about it. By the way, how was the situation in the classroom today?"
"As usual: drawing talismans, playing cards, grading assignments..."
As she spoke, Kushina's gaze turned somewhat resentful.
"As long as nothing unusual happens."
Natsuhiko timely diverted his gaze, not intending to delve deeper into that topic.
So, he changed the subject, saying, "I've come up with something new again. Can you take a look?"
Sure enough, as soon as Kushina heard that Natsuhiko had a new invention, she promptly cast aside thoughts of assignments.
She immediately stood up, quickly approached Natsuhiko, and, in her eagerness, her long scarlet hair brushed against him, emanating a faint fragrance.
"Ah, sorry," Kushina apologised.
"It's okay."
Natsuhiko leaned to the side, allowing her a better view of the contents on the blank sheet.
Curious, Kushina leaned forward and saw various designs for cards covering the paper.
Her first reaction was that the third instalment of Shinobi cards was coming, and her excitement grew. However, her speculation was quickly denied.
She recognized these as cards that had appeared in the first and second sets, but the designs were completely different, more exquisite than before.
Even the spaces where runes were previously drawn on the cards were now replaced with detailed drawings of characters or Ninjutsu.
Although Kushina didn't know the purpose behind Natsuhiko designing these cards, it didn't hinder her admiration for them.
"These cards look really good! Much better than the ones you let the students play with."
Natsuhiko displayed a smile of approval.
"Of course, they look good. After all, they're meant to be sold."
If the card illustrations weren't exquisite, how could they gobble up the money of die-hard fans?
"Sell them?"
Kushina turned her head towards Natsuhiko, looking surprised. "Are you planning to sell these cards to the students?"
Ha! Natsuhiko,The Great Devil King, you've finally shown your true colours!
"Absolutely not! I'm not... don't make things up!"
Natsuhiko waved his hands repeatedly, saying, "If I really dared to do that, Biwako-sama would crush the Sealing Jutsu class the next day."
Kushina burst into laughter at his teasing.
Then, with some hesitation, she asked, "Since it's not for the students, are you planning to sell them to the elders?"
"Why not?" Natsuhiko smiled. "I've noticed that not only the kids but even the elders have monotonous entertainment activities. It's either eating, gambling, or..."
"Or what?" Kushina blinked her bright and intelligent eyes, looking curious.
A look that said, "I'm very curious."
"Cough cough, it's... pleasure from helping others, assisting some less fortunate elder sisters..."
"Oh, so that's how it is." Kushina suddenly understood. "Grandma Mito often donates money to orphanages and such."
"Yes, exactly."
Relieved that he managed to smoothly divert the conversation, Natsuhiko continued, "So, I plan to let the elders experience the joy of playing Shinobi cards too."
"Since the cost of duel-disks is too high for widespread use, my plan is to start with a trial, opening a tavern."
"I'll install dozens of machines inside where they can play Shinobi cards. After work, the elders can come here, enjoy some drinks, play cards, and relax."
"Cards plus a tavern, isn't that an interesting combination?"
"The cards designed on the blueprint just now are meant to be sold to them as a way for the tavern to make a profit, fulfilling the wishes of the Hall Master."
With that said, Natsuhiko touched his chin.
"Speaking of which, we haven't chosen a name for the tavern yet."
"Well, since the selling point is the Shinobi cards, let's name the tavern 'Shinobi Tavern.'"
(End of this chapter)
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