Bab 50: Konoha Again
Their arrival to Konoha was far less eventful than Ryomaru had anticipated. No ambushes by bandits, no skirmishes with petty criminals, not even a sliver of pursuit related to his identity. It was, in his mind, uncharacteristically peaceful. Most likely, the unseen security details who discreetly kept pace with them were responsible for their untroubled journey, but Ryomaru had half-expected at least a minor encounter or two. Regardless, the calm journey offered a stark contrast to the flurry of emotions churning within him.
As they neared the gates of Konoha, Ryomaru felt a sense of intrigue building within him. This was only his second time visiting, but the significance of the trip made it seem vastly different from the first.
Awaiting them at the entrance was the Third Hokage, Sarutobi Hiruzen, accompanied by two elder council members Homura Mitokado and Koharu Utatane. Behind them stood Kurenai and Anko. The sight of them triggered a flutter of anticipation within Ryomaru. Although he'd met the Hokage before, the formal greeting gave the encounter a new gravity.
Upon sighting them, the fibe Konoha representatives bowed respectfully. First to Miori, acknowledging her position as the mother of the future Raikage, and then to Ryomaru himself, a recognition of his status as the heir. Regardless of the dubious circumstances of his birth and Miori's addition to the Cloud, their ranks demanded respect.
"Welcome, Miori-sama, Ryomaru-kun," Hiruzen greeted, a warm smile on his face. His eyes held a softness as he regarded Ryomaru, reflecting the fondness he had developed during their previous meeting.
"Thank you, Hokage-sama," Miori responded, her voice steady. She exchanged a glance with Ryomaru, her gaze urging him to respond likewise.
Ryomaru stepped forward, mirroring his mother's courtesy, "Thank you for welcoming us, Hokage-sama."
Before they even had a chance to step into the village, Samui and Mabui moved to the forefront. Their eyes were sharp, their demeanor resolute, and their tone, although respectful, held an edge of authority. "Hokage-sama," Mabui began, her gaze steady, "Raikage-sama ordered us to make sure Danzo Shimura is not in the village during Ryomaru's stay."
Her words hung in the air, a potent statement that instantly drew the attention of all present. Ryomaru glanced at his mother, her usually gentle features were hardened, mirroring the seriousness of the situation.
Mabui continued, her voice clear and firm, "According to pre-signed agreements, Shimura Danzo is considered to be dangerous in Ryomaru's proximity and we have orders to take drastic measures if needed."
Koharu Utatane, one of the elder council members, snorted, her brows furrowing in disdain. "Danzo is an elder of my villa-"
Before she could complete her statement, Samui cut her off, her voice steady and resolute, "His identity, titles, merits are none of our concern. This is part of the agreement signed by Raikage-sama, Hokage-sama, and Kazekage-sama. If you are going to break its legitimacy, we will act accordingly." Her eyes were locked onto the older woman, the challenge in her gaze evident.
Despite the tension that filled the air, Ryomaru watched this exchange with a calm detachment, a stark contrast to the turmoil he felt inside. He could feel his mother's hand tighten around his own, a silent reassurance that everything was under control.
The Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, stepped forward, his presence alone enough to calm the escalating tension. "As I stated earlier, Danzo has been stationed to an outpost, and will not be near the village during this time. You have the freedom to protect Ryomaru as you see fit."
To this, Samui and Mabui nodded in acknowledgement, their guard still not fully down, "Thank you, Hokage-sama." Their voices were unified, a clear testament to their unwavering commitment to protect Ryomaru.
Hiruzen's gaze softened as he turned his attention back to Miori and Ryomaru, his smile easing some of the tension. He pointed to Kurenai and Anko, who had been standing silently behind him, "Special Jounins Kurenai and Anko will be your guides to your accommodations, and if you need anything, you can call on them."
Ryomaru watched as Kurenai and Anko stepped forward. They were new faces to him, but they carried an air of confidence that was comforting. "Thank you, Hokage-sama," he said, his tone respectful, "We appreciate your arrangements."
Under the guidance of Kurenai and Anko, they journeyed into the heart of Konoha. The village, shrouded in the warmth of the setting sun, held an air of tranquility that was infectious. The village was abuzz with life, shinobi and civilians alike going about their day. Ryomaru's eyes darted around, drinking in the sights of the village. There was so much to see, so many iconic places that made Konoha unique.
They passed the Hokage Monument, a massive mountain edifice featuring the carved faces of the previous Hokages. Its grandeur was palpable, a silent testament to the village's history and the shinobi who had shaped its course. "That's the Hokage Monument," Kurenai explained, her voice full of pride, "It represents the legacy of our village."
Further into the village, they walked past a bustling marketplace, the aroma of various cuisines permeating the air. Among them, a certain smell seemed to catch Anko's attention. With a gleam in her eyes, she pointed towards a modest stall. "That's my favorite Dango place," she declared, a hint of enthusiasm coloring her voice.
Kurenai shot her a reproachful look, "Anko, we're on official duty."
Anko stuck out her tongue playfully, though she didn't insist further.
After a leisurely stroll through the village, they finally arrived at the Uchiha Compound. Ryomaru felt a shiver of anticipation run through him. The compound, which was rebuilt after the devastating Uchiha massacre, was now a prestigious residential area for honored guests.
Their lodgings were twin houses situated side by side, separated by a wall. They were two-story structures, elegantly designed with traditional Japanese architecture. Large glass windows lined the front, offering a view of the lush gardens that surrounded them.
"This one," Kurenai said, indicating the house on their left, "is for you and your mother, Ryomaru-sama. It has two bedrooms, a spacious living area, and a well-equipped kitchen."
Then she pointed to the house on their right. "And this one is for Samui-san and Mabui-san. It is designed similarly to yours."
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