The morning rays peeked through the window, their warm glow illuminating the room and dancing on Ryomaru's eyelids. Waking up was like emerging from a pleasant dream, the comfort of his mother's embrace a soft cocoon that shielded him from the world. As he stirred, his face pressed against her chest, the familiar scent of her filled his senses - a mixture of cherry blossoms and mint, a scent that was uniquely hers, uniquely home.
His eyes fluttered open, the sight of his mother, sleeping peacefully with a gentle smile on her face, the first thing he saw. He wouldn't change this moment for anything in the world.
Miori's eyes slowly opened as well, her gaze immediately finding his. Her lips curled into a sweet smile, one hand rising to gently brush a few strands of his black hair away from his forehead. She planted a soft kiss there, a morning ritual that had become their own little tradition. It was a small gesture, but one that carried with it the weight of her love for him.
"Good morning, Mum," he greeted her, his voice still thick with sleep.
"Good morning, Ryo," she replied, her voice the soft melody he loved to hear every morning.
After a few minutes of comfortable silence, basking in the warmth of each other's presence, Ryomaru finally pushed back the covers and swung his legs over the side of the bed, the cool floor a stark contrast against his warm feet.
"Mum, I'll get ready for school while you make breakfast?" he offered, knowing how much she enjoyed cooking, especially for him.
Miori nodded, a playful twinkle in her eye as she announced, "I'm going to create a feast for your first day at the Konoha Academy."
True to her word, when Ryomaru emerged from the bathroom, fresh and ready for his day, the smell of freshly cooked food filled the air. The dining table was covered with all sorts of dishes - fluffy scrambled eggs, perfectly toasted bread, sizzling sausages, and a stack of pancakes that made his mouth water.
He sat down at the table, Miori joining him with two steaming cups of cocoa, the sweet smell mingling with the savory aroma of the breakfast feast. Ryomaru's heart swelled with gratitude. He knew Miori had gone all out to make his first day special.
"Mum, everything looks delicious," he complimented, watching her face light up with happiness. For him, that was the most beautiful sight in the world.
As they ate, the air between them filled with soft laughter and quiet chatter, their words carrying the weight of their love for each other. This was their sanctuary, their paradise - a world where they only had each other and that was enough.
"Ryo," Miori started, her voice taking on a serious tone, "Today is going to be a new adventure for you. Remember, no matter what happens, be true to yourself. You're strong, kind, and more than capable. I am so proud of you."
Her words, full of sincerity and love, brought an inexplicable warmth to his heart. This was what he loved about his mother - her unwavering belief in him, her endless support that gave him the strength to face any challenge.
"I know, Mum," he replied, reaching across the table to squeeze her hand. "I'll do my best, I promise."
Leaving the house, the morning breeze tickled Ryomaru's face, the fresh scent of dew-laden grass filling his senses. There, by the gate, stood Samui. Her azure eyes lit up when she saw him, a gentle smile gracing her lips.
"Samui-nee, good morning," he greeted, the excitement of the day ahead evident in his voice.
"Ryo," she replied, her voice carrying a mix of fondness and concern. "I will escort you to the academy every morning, and bring you home when you're done. In the middle of the day if you need anything, or if you feel threatened, you know how to alert me."
Ryomaru could tell Samui was worried, her protective instinct kicking in. He understood that this was just her way of showing her love for him. So, with a mischievous glint in his eyes, he sidestepped to her, jumped, and planted a swift kiss on her forehead in mid-air.
"No need to worry so much, Samui-nee," he reassured her as he landed, his boyish chuckle filling the air and painting a slight blush on Samui's cheeks.
He then held her hand, leading the way. As they walked towards the academy, Samui, recovering from her surprise, started talking about her own academy days in Cloud Village.
"I remember the first day I entered the academy," she started, a nostalgic smile spreading across her face. "I was nervous, just like you probably are right now. Although this is not your first academy."
"I'm not nervous," Ryomaru interjected with a grin, hoping to keep the atmosphere light. Samui shot him a knowing look, causing him to laugh.
"Alright, alright," he conceded, "maybe a little. But hearing about your experiences will make it easier."
Samui nodded, continuing her stories, her voice a comforting presence as they navigated the bustling streets of Konoha. She told him about the friends she had made, the challenges she had faced, the joy of learning new jutsu, and the sense of accomplishment that came with each new level of training. Her stories painted a vivid picture of academy life, preparing him for what lay ahead.
Ryomaru listened to her, his heart fluttering with anticipation. Samui's words not only provided him with valuable insights but also served to calm his simmering nerves. Her stories made him realize that every ninja he looked up to had once been a rookie, just like he was.
The academy gates loomed ahead, a thrum of activity surrounding them as children of various ages scurried around, their nervous excitement palpable in the air. Ryomaru's heart pounded in sync with the rhythm of life that unfolded before him. Samui bent down to his level, her azure eyes reflecting the pride she felt for him. She pressed a soft kiss on his forehead, a teasing glint in her gaze, "Payback," she grinned.
Ryomaru let out a delighted chuckle, the sound bubbling out into the crisp morning air, "Alright, you got me there, Samui-nee." He watched as her eyes softened, the corners crinkling in response to his words. A sense of warmth enveloped him as he realized just how much he meant to the people around him.
With a last wave to Samui, he walked through the academy gates. As he entered, he was greeted by Iruka Sensei. The man's kindly face was familiar, carrying the calm authority of an experienced teacher. He led Ryomaru to a room bustling with young voices, where children of about his age had already gathered, their excited chatters filling the room.
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