AM N. NOT.(っ－＿－)っ
They both stared at him, slightly confused.
Hadn't they asked if he would like to join them? So he answered
Yet here he was, already moving to set the table.
Then they watched as he arranged plates and utensils with practiced ease. "Come on—let's eat," he said simply.
Neither knew what to make of his response—was he teasing them? But Nemuri licked her lips, a smile spreading across her face. "Okay, let's dig in. I'm starving—I didn't eat lunch." Tsunade shook her head, her attention fixed on the dish before her.
"What is this?" she asked.
"Glad you asked," he replied. "This is suaasat… with noodles."
They looked at the soup: hearty and unassuming, with a broth that ranged from clear to faintly milky. Chunks of tender meat—seal or whale, by the look of it—floated alongside diced potatoes and onions, and the twist he'd mentioned: noodles. Soft and slightly swollen from soaking up the broth, they added extra body to the simple bowl. The whole dish was pale beige to light brown, rustic and homey. When Maki scooped it with a spoon, the noodles curled around the meat, broth clinging lightly to every piece. Modest to look at, but deeply inviting.
He served them each a portion. "Enjoy. Let me know if you don't like it—I'll make something new."
They didn't answer, their eyes fixed on the soup. Even the aroma was rich and layered, promising far more than its plain appearance suggested. They took their first spoonfuls—and their eyes widened.
It tasted earthy, rich, and comforting—like a hug in a bowl. The meat gave it a gamey, salty depth; the broth was mild but hearty, with a hint of thickness from potatoes and a smooth, savory richness from the meat's fat. The noodles soaked up every drop of flavor, making each bite soft and filling. A touch of onion brought gentle sweetness, while herbs added just enough freshness—but the focus stayed on the natural taste of the meat. Warming, satisfying, and simple—one bite was enough to leave a lasting impression.
Delicious—the only word that came to mind. The three ate together, a quiet, unexpected harmony between them. The two women kept glancing at the man across from them, who tasted his food with serious concentration. Most of all, Tsunade felt herself acting unlike her usual self: she was known for her high status, respect, hot temper, and wild ways—but here, something was different. She felt calm, almost gentle, and didn't understand why. Was it his charm? His presence?
Who knew what was really happening.
They took their time savoring every bite. Before they knew it, thirty minutes had passed, and every drop of soup was gone. Maki began clearing the table while Nemuri and Tsunade rested, full and content.
"I'm going to get fat at this rate," Nemuri sighed.
Tsunade shot her a look. "Aren't you already?"
Nemuri glared fiercely. "I am not fat!"
Tsunade just smiled in response.
Maki moved to the sink, washing plates and utensils with quiet efficiency. Then Nemuri sat up straight, as if remembering something important. "Sis Tsuna—what was it you came here for again?"
Tsunade's expression grew serious. "I need answers about what happened with the Anomalies. We suspect they're a new variation, so I have to gather all the details I can."
"Variation… so the Anomalies are mutating too?" Nemuri said.
"That's what we think," Tsunade confirmed. "And I have some personal questions I need to ask as well."
Nemuri looked at her, understanding dawning in her eyes. "Is it about his ability to create those woods?"
Tsunade nodded.
Nemuri smirked. "You'll be surprised by his answer—we all were."
Tsunade didn't know what she meant by that.
Then Nemuri stood up, stretching lazily. "I'm going to go change and wash up. Don't do anything to my baby, you hear?" she teased, grinning as she headed for the living room without waiting for a reply. As she walked, her hips swayed, and her bust bounced with each step. Tsunade watched as Nemuri's hand brushed over her pencil skirt, stroking the fabric playfully—and smirked at her friend's antics.
Tsunade's eyes then landed on Maki, who'd finished cleaning and was wiping his hands dry. He walked back to the dining table where she still sat, and she studied him closely, her gaze intense.
"Can I ask you those questions now?" she said.
AM N. NOT.(っ－＿－)っ