章 64: Date
After leaving the Hyuga Compound, Mabui gently took hold of Ryomaru's hand, leading him down a picturesque path in Konoha. The soft chirping of birds created a tranquil ambiance, making the air feel lighter, especially after a tiring day of training.
"Ryomaru," Mabui began, her tone gentle, "It feels like it's been ages since we've spent time together, just the two of us." Her voice held a note of wistfulness.
Ryomaru glanced up at her, his ice-blue eyes shimmering with affection. "I've missed this too, Mabui-nee. With all the training and adjustments, it's been hard to find moments like these."
Mabui's eyes softened as she nodded in agreement. "The exchange program has been demanding for you. Adjusting to a new environment, making friends, training… but you've handled it all so well."
He grinned confidently, "Well, I did learn from the best." There was a touch of cheekiness in his tone, hinting at the close bond they shared.
Mabui chuckled softly, shaking her head fondly. "Always the charmer," she remarked. "It's no wonder half the girls in your class are smitten with you."
Ryomaru's cheeks took on a hint of pink, clearly not expecting that. "I don't know about that," he murmured, "I'm just being myself."
Mabui's gaze lingered on him for a few moments longer. "Ryo," she began slowly, "how do you feel about being in Konoha? Truly feel."
He took a moment, the playful glint in his eyes replaced with thoughtful contemplation. "Konoha is different, Mabui-nee. The teachings, the dynamics, everything. But it's also fascinating. I get to learn so much here."
Mabui looked at him, a gentle smile curving her lips. "Well then, how about we explore more of Konoha together? Let me take you on a date," she said, her voice playfully teasing, trying to lighten the mood.
Ryomaru blinked in surprise, his ice-blue eyes widening momentarily. "A date? With you, Mabui-nee?" Despite his playful tone, there was a subtle note of excitement in his voice.
She chuckled, nodding. "Yes, a date. But think of it as a fun day out between two friends," she added quickly, noting the boy's raised eyebrows, "like a big sister taking her little brother on an adventure."
He smirked, "An adventure, you say? I'm up for it!"
Their first stop was the famous dango stall in the heart of Konoha. As they sat side by side, Ryomaru eagerly reached for the skewer, taking a bite of the sweet treat. His eyes lit up in delight. "This is amazing!"
Mabui smiled warmly, watching him. "I knew you'd love it. Konoha's dango is renowned throughout the shinobi nations."
They continued their journey, weaving through the vibrant streets of Konoha. Mabui pointed out several landmarks, explaining their significance to the young shinobi. Every now and then, Ryomaru would pause to admire the scenery, absorbing the stories behind each structure.
As the sun started its descent, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, Mabui led Ryomaru to a serene spot by a calm lake. The water shimmered, reflecting the twilight colors.
"Isn't it beautiful, Ryo?" Mabui whispered, a hint of reverence in her voice.
Ryomaru nodded, captivated by the view. "It reminds me of our evenings in Cloud. But there's a certain tranquillity here that's... different."
Mabui looked at him, her eyes reflecting the sunset. "Every place has its unique charm. But I'm glad you're finding bits of home even here."
The two sat in silence for a while, simply enjoying each other's company and the serenity around them. The distant chirping of crickets accompanied the soft lapping of water against the shore.
Suddenly, Ryomaru turned to Mabui, his expression serious. "Mabui-nee, I've been wondering... why did you agree to come to Konoha with Mum and me? You could've stayed in Cloud."
Mabui's cheeks turned a delicate shade of rose, and she momentarily fumbled for her words. Clearing her throat, she began, "Well, the Raikage-sama thought it was essential that Miori-san and you had adequate protection while being away. Given the political tensions and your status... it made sense."
Ryomaru tilted his head, studying her face. "That's the official version, isn't it? But there's more to it, right?"
She looked away, her gaze settling on the rippling water of the lake. Her fingers played with a few strands of her hair, a telltale sign of her being lost in thought. "You've grown observant," she murmured.
"It comes with growing up," he replied with a soft smile. "But Mabui-nee, I've known you for years. You don't do things without a reason. And while protection makes sense, Samui-nee would have been enough."
There was a slight catch in her voice as she replied, "It wasn't just about protection, Ryomaru."
He watched her intently, waiting for her to continue. The silence stretched between them, making the chirping of the crickets even more pronounced.
Taking a deep breath, Mabui ventured, "It's... complicated. In Cloud, everything is entangled with duty, loyalty, and hierarchy. But there are emotions, connections that run deeper. You, Ryomaru... you're like a brother to me."
He raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Just a brother?"
She chuckled weakly, her blush deepening. "You're quite the interrogator today, aren't you?"
Ryomaru's lips curled into a playful smirk. "Well, you've evaded the topic long enough. Come on, out with it."
Sighing, she looked straight into his ice-blue eyes. "Alright. Do you remember those times when you used to visit my quarters in Cloud after a particularly hard training session with B or one of those intense meetings with Raikage-sama?"
He nodded, recalling those days with clarity. "Of course, you always had the best sweets."
She laughed softly. "It wasn't just about the sweets, Ryo. Those moments, those little chats, they meant a lot to me. Watching you grow, seeing the little boy dealing with so much responsibility... it created a bond. When the chance came to accompany you to Konoha, I couldn't let you go alone. I wanted to be there, to support you, to watch over you. To make sure that you always had a piece of Cloud with you, even in a new environment."
His eyes softened, and he reached out, squeezing her hand gently. "Thank you, Mabui-nee. Knowing you're here with me... it's comforting. But," he added with a teasing twinkle in his eyes, "doesn't that make you a little overprotective?"
Mabui rolled her eyes playfully. "Well, someone has to be, especially with your knack for getting into trouble."
He chuckled, his laughter echoing in the tranquil surroundings. "Fair point."
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