TSSITWON Chapter 238: Return to the Village

Days passed, and slowly the relationship between them developed. However, even though they were now closer, there were still many things left unspoken—secrets waiting for the right time to be revealed.

Time passed quickly. Unbeknownst to them, it had been ten days since Aoki met Mei.

During that time, many things had happened. The relationship between Aoki and Mei grew closer, even though they rarely expressed their feelings directly.

Their interactions became more natural, filled with conversations that, although simple, always held deep meaning.

Meanwhile, the injury on Mei's left shoulder, which had previously been severe, had shown significant recovery. The torn skin had healed, leaving faint scars that could only be seen up close.

The pain that had previously hindered Mei's movements was gradually fading. It might only take a few more days before Mei could move freely without discomfort.

During this time, Aoki spent most of his time training Tetsu and Ajisai. Their training focused not only on physical strength but also on mental resilience and more effective fighting techniques. Although still a beginner, Tetsu showed quite rapid progress.

He began to understand the basics of movement in combat, although he was still often clumsy. Ajisai, on the other hand, was still too small to really fight, but Aoki continued to give Ajisai basic training to help his body get accustomed to ninja techniques from an early age.

Mei occasionally helped out. Although she mostly observed from a distance, Mei often provided valuable guidance that Aoki could not offer. With her extensive knowledge of Ninjutsu theory, Mei was able to explain techniques in more detail, allowing Tetsu and Ajisai to grasp the concepts they were learning more quickly.

However, it wasn't just training that they engaged in over the past ten days.

Many other things happened.

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In the dense forest, under the dimming afternoon sky, four figures walked along a narrow path. Tall trees loomed around them, their sturdy trunks with roots protruding from the ground, as if gripping the earth tightly.

Sunlight filtered through the leaves, creating moving shadows that resembled figures hiding among the trees.

In front, a teenage boy around fourteen or fifteen years old walked calmly. Aoki, with his cold expression, walked ahead as if he had no worries at all. However, Aoki's movements remained vigilant, each step he took was always measured.

Beside Aoki, a younger boy, around eleven or twelve years old, walked with a curious expression. Tetsu, with his seemingly endless energy, appeared a bit restless but still followed Aoki obediently.

Behind them, a little girl about four or five years old walked lightly. Ajisai, though small, never lagged behind. Her face remained calm as usual, her large round eyes observing her surroundings attentively.

Bringing up the rear was a teenage girl of Aoki's age, walking casually while Mei kept an eye on her surroundings. Mei, with her long hair slightly disheveled after training, glanced up at the sky. The sun was beginning to lean toward the west.

They had walked quite far from the village, farther than usual.

"Boss! We've gone quite far. Should we head back to the village now?" Tetsu asked with a curious tone, a bit tired after a long training session.

Aoki glanced at the sky, estimating the time left before the sun completely set. The air was starting to feel cooler, the breeze carrying the scent of damp earth and decaying leaves.

"You're right, we chose a training area that’s quite far. We should head back before night falls," Aoki replied, nodding his head.