Naruto Fanfiction Series 1: Kitsune's Mission

Phase 10: Unexpected

Third Person POV

The air hung heavy with the scent of sizzling meats and fragrant spices, a symphony of aromas that danced on the tongues of the patrons within the Akamichi clan's renowned restaurant.

The warm glow of the lanterns cast long shadows across the bustling room, illuminating the faces of the Hidden Leaf Village's elite, drawn together by the promise of a hearty and flavorful feast.

Shikamaru Nara, his usual air of nonchalance tinged with a hint of hunger, led the way, his steps purposeful and unwavering.

Beside him, Lee, the ever-optimistic ninja, radiated an almost tangible energy, his smile as bright as the sun.

Kiba Inuzuka, his loyal companion Akamaru trotting at his heels, exuded a quiet confidence, his gaze sharp and alert.

Shino Aburame, his face obscured by his signature insect-infested hair, maintained a stoic composure, his presence of a silent force to be reckoned with.

And then there was Choji Akamichi, his eyes sparkling with anticipation, his stomach already rumbling in anticipation of the culinary delights that awaited him.

The air thrummed with the familiar camaraderie of their long-standing friendship, a bond forged through countless missions and shared experiences.

Choji was already eyeing the menu with a hungry gleam in his eyes. "I'm going for the Akamichi Special," he declared, his voice thick with anticipation.

"Sounds divine," Lee enthused, his boundless energy tempered by a hint of weariness. "I'll have the same, but with extra vegetables, of course. Gotta keep those muscles fueled!"

Kiba, his gaze fixed on the menu, let out a low growl, his voice laced with a hint of mischief. "Count me in, and maybe a side of their famous spicy tofu. It's supposed to be a real kick!"

Shino simply smiled and said, "I'll have the grilled chicken skewers. They're always perfectly cooked and seasoned."

Shikamaru, his eyes half-closed in a gesture of weariness, sighed. "Just get me whatever's fastest. I'm starving."

As they placed their orders, Choji's gaze drifted towards a corner table occupied by Naruto Namikaze and Sasuke Uchiha.

The two were deep in conversation, their voices hushed but their expressions animated.

A mischievous grin spread across Choji's face.

"Hey, look! It's Naruto and Sasuke! Let's say hi!" Choji exclaimed, his voice laced with excitement.

Everyone turned to the couple, their eyes drawn to the corner table.

.

.

Naruto, with his usual mischievous grin, leaned closer to Sasuke, his eyes sparkling with amusement.

"So, my beautiful love," he drawled, his voice a playful whisper, "What's on your mind? You seem awfully preoccupied."

Sasuke, his stoic facade momentarily crumbling under Naruto's teasing, shot him a glare.

"It's nothing," he muttered, his gaze fixed on his hands.

"Just thinking about the festival tomorrow."

Naruto's smile widened. "The festival? I thought you wouldn't be interested in something so frivolous."

"Well, I wouldn't be if you weren't coming with me," Sasuke admitted, his voice softening.

"And you need to make up for those three days we were apart. You were gone for a whole three days, Dobe!"