บท 56: Housevisit
The next day zipped by like a shooting star in the night sky. After enjoying a sumptuous breakfast prepared by Miori, Ryomaru found himself being escorted to the academy by Mabui. It seemed the guard duties were on rotation between her and Samui. The slight change brought an element of freshness to his morning routine, and the jovial conversation with Mabui made him almost forget about the stern lesson waiting for him at the academy.
Time at the academy had a unique flow to it, quick but full of learning. As the hours passed, Ryomaru absorbed all he could, storing it away like a treasure chest of knowledge. The day was strenuous, both mentally and physically, but it was a challenge that Ryomaru accepted with eagerness.
Just as the final bell of the day tolled, Hinata appeared by his side, a timid smile playing on her lips. Her eyes sparkled with anticipation as she asked, "Ryo-kun, are we still going to have dinner at my house tonight?"
Ryomaru looked at her, and for a moment, her gentle mannerism reminded him of his mother. The comparison warmed his heart and made his decision easier. With a warm smile, he nodded. "Yes, Hinata. I am looking forward to it."
Hinata's face lit up at the confirmation, her cheeks blushing a shade of pink that made her resemble a cherry blossom in spring. It was a sight that lifted Ryomaru's spirits even further.
After the day ended, Ryomaru and Mabui returned home. Miori, waiting for them, immediately ushered Ryomaru into the bathroom for a quick shower. His day had been filled with exertion and she wanted him to look his best for the dinner.
Post-shower, Miori, with her careful and loving hands, dressed Ryomaru in an elegant yukata. His black hair, still damp, framed his face perfectly, complementing his striking ice-blue eyes. She held back a sigh of adoration as she fixed his attire. Seeing him ready, she felt a warmth of maternal love coursing through her veins. It was an undying flame that illuminated her world and gave her a purpose.
Together, Miori, Ryomaru, Mabui, and Samui started their walk towards the Hyuga compound. The fading twilight painted the streets of Konoha in warm hues of red and orange, signifying a beautiful end to the day. Each step they took brought them closer to the Hyuga compound, the anticipation gradually building within them.
Upon reaching the Hyuga compound, a grand structure that stood in its own dignified calm amidst the Konoha hustle, they were greeted by Hinata, her younger sister Hanabi, and their mother Himawari. The trio's eyes brightened upon seeing Ryomaru, and their soft smiles filled the atmosphere with a warmth that mirrored the setting sun's glow.
"Welcome, Miori-san, Ryomaru-kun," Hinata greeted, a touch of shyness still present in her tone. Hanabi, being more outgoing of the two sisters, was the first to extend her hand towards Mabui and Samui, introducing herself with a bold grin, "I'm Hanabi, nice to meet you!"
Meanwhile, Himawari's gentle gaze shifted to Miori. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Miori-san," she said, extending a hand to the older woman. Miori accepted it graciously, a thin smile gracing her lips.
"Likewise, Himawari-san. This is Samui, and this is Mabui," Miori introduced, gesturing to the guards behind her. "Thank you for your hospitality."
Exchanging introductions and pleasantries, Miori then presented the small token she had brought along, a set of finely crafted Cloud Village trinkets. The delicate items were met with gasps of appreciation from the Hyuga family. "It's beautiful, Miori-san," Himawari thanked, her hands delicately caressing the gift. "Your kindness is much appreciated."
Entering the large dining room, Ryomaru quickly scanned the room and noticed the absence of the patriarch. He didn't mind the absence, and correctly assumed it was a move to give Miori some ease around Himawari. With a shrug, he moved towards the long wooden table. Sitting himself comfortably between Hinata and Hanabi, he felt a pleasant warmth emanating from their proximity.
The sound of Miori's gentle laughter drew his attention. He saw her taking a seat next to Himawari, their conversations brimming with grace and the mutual respect two mothers share. It was a heartening sight.
The aroma of food began to waft through the room as dishes were brought in. Ryomaru's stomach gave an approving growl as he eyed the feast. Platters of grilled fish, bowls of warm miso soup, a colourful array of pickled vegetables, and steaming bowls of white rice made their way onto the table. Ryomaru couldn't help but marvel at the spread, his mouth watering in anticipation.
As they started to dine, Ryomaru found himself embroiled in a conversation with Hinata and Hanabi. The sisters were as different as day and night, and it was a joy for him to discover their unique personalities.
"Hanabi-chan, are you training under your father too?" Ryomaru asked, his ice-blue eyes flickering with interest as he watched the younger girl devour her fish.
Hanabi nodded, her cheeks full. Swallowing her food, she wiped her mouth with the back of her hand and said, "Yeah, it's tough, but I love it. I want to be the best shinobi I can be." Her voice held a conviction that made Ryomaru nod in admiration.
Hinata, on his other side, was more reserved, but her delicate grace was equally captivating. He turned to her, his face lit up by an easy smile. "Hinata-chan, you're quiet. How was your day at the academy?"
Hinata looked at him, her pale lavender eyes shimmering under the room's soft lighting. A soft blush tainted her cheeks as she spoke, "It was... fine. I enjoy learning new techniques, but I... I really want to get better at using Byakugan."
Ryomaru noticed the slight hesitation in her voice and gave her a reassuring squeeze on her shoulder. "You will, Hinata-chan," he said. "Every great shinobi takes time to master their skills. Even I struggle sometimes."
Hinata looked at him, her eyes wide with surprise. "You do?" She asked, her voice barely a whisper.
Ryomaru nodded, grinning. "Of course. Struggle is part of the journey. Remember, it's not about how many times you fall, but how many times you get back up. That's what matters."
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