TPMITWON Chapter 46: Towards the Puppet Theater

"But how about we go there after school and check it out? If you get hired, maybe you can learn how to use the Chakra Threads faster."

A mischievous smile appeared on Makima's lips before she added, "Oh, and we can also go to my house! Every time I asked you out, you guys always refused. Now you have no excuses, right?"

Souta scratched his cheek awkwardly. "About that..."

"I don't mind, what about you, Souta?" Pakura finally spoke up, her voice soft yet firm. Where Pakura glanced at Souta, as if waiting for Souta's decision.

Souta glanced back at Pakura and Makima. After a few seconds of thinking, Souta nodded firmly. "If Pakura agrees, then I agree too!"

"Alright! It's decided, huh!" Makima said in an excited voice, Makima's eyes sparkling with joy.

...

...

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After School.

The atmosphere outside the Sunagakure Ninja Academy was much calmer than it had been in the morning. The afternoon sun hung low in the sky, blanketing the village in a warm golden light. The shadows of the tall sand buildings stretched across the narrow streets, giving it a slightly dramatic feel.

Souta, Pakura, and Makima walked together along the cobblestone streets that stretched between the typical Sunagakure buildings. The desert wind blew gently, bringing with it the distinct scent of dry sand. Their footsteps echoed softly on the streets, while the voices of vendors still selling their afternoon wares could occasionally be heard in the distance.

They chatted casually throughout the walk, discussing everything from their lessons at the academy to their favorite foods.

Soon, a large building came into their view. It had two floors and, like most buildings in Sunagakure, was made entirely of sand. However, there was something different about this place—right above the entrance, a large plaque read “Puppetry Theater.”

Makima pointed excitedly toward the entrance. “Look! That’s the building!”

Souta turned his attention to the noticeboard next to the entrance. It was also made of sand, but the letters carved into its surface were clearly visible despite being covered in a bit of desert dust.

"Come closer," Souta said before stepping forward.

Whereupon Souta squinted and read the writing on the noticeboard in a low but firm voice:

"Required workers with strong physical strength and high stamina. The Puppet Theater is looking for workers to help clean the theater area. If you are interested, please come in and register."

Makima turned to Souta with a satisfied expression. "See! I wasn't lying, was I?"

Souta nodded slowly, then grinned. "You're right, but we still don't know if I'll be accepted or not."

"At least you can come in and try it yourself, right?" Pakura said in a calm tone, but there was a hint of a supportive smile on her face.

Souta took a deep breath, then nodded. "You're right, Pakura. Can you guys wait here for a moment? I'll go in and find out."

"No problem!" Makima nodded quickly.

"Good luck," Pakura said with a look of conviction.

Souta took another breath before stepping forward, carefully pushing open the theater door.

As soon as Souta entered, his eyes widened in surprise.

The inside of the building was far more beautiful than Souta had imagined. Despite the structure being entirely made of sand, the interior exuded an air of utter luxury. Tall pillars carved with intricate patterns supported a ceiling adorned with crystal chandeliers. The dim light from colored glass lanterns created a mysterious yet elegant atmosphere.

Along the walls, there were various doll statues of varying sizes. Some of them looked like regular performance puppets, while others had more sinister designs, with weapons hidden inside their bodies.