[The transmission comes on around a burst of static. There is a rattle and then faintly, a growl. A distinctly human growl.] --is thing working? Hello? Damnit, I swear if it cuts out on me one more time I-
[More static.] -dn't even do anything and the mist is gone and- Wait... I think that's it. [There is a pause. Naruto's voice sounds vaguely embarrassed.] Is everyone okay!? I'm pretty sure the maze is gone but is everyone in one pie-
[The Forge cuts out for a moment. A long moment. When Naruto eventually speaks there is an edge of frustration creeping in on his voice.]
Okay. That's it. Is there anyone in this place who knows how to fix these stupid things? Not that I broke mine or anything! I didn't! It just stopped working.
Kinda.
Sometimes.
[More silence.] Anyone?
Happy birthday.
[Pause.]
That's today, right? So, are you doin' anything later?
[Distinctly hopeful.]
... you guys got any plans later?