Chapter 45 : The Breakfast!
The morning sun cast warm rays across the garden as Yuzurei and the others stretched, muscles awakening under Shioinkin's watchful eye.
Yuzurei: "Ha ha ha!! I'm the best!"
Musukoni: "No one asked, you know."
Shinoki snickered quietly but tried to control herself.
Yuzurei: "Huh!?!? You dummy! Everyone knows I'm the best!"
He said it with a playful, irritated tone, puffing out his chest.
Jin Yuan continued stretching calmly, his expression composed as always.
Emily picked up a wooden katana, practicing her swings with gentle precision.
On the other side, Yuzurei grabbed two wooden katanas and tossed another two into the air, striking a tree with all four. Sparks of skill flashed in the morning light—he was nearly mastering this style, yet still training tirelessly.
Shioinkin: "My students… they've grown beyond me. They deserve to be happy."
He smiled to himself, pride hidden behind his calm exterior.
Musukoni and Shinoki's eyes were fixed on Yuzurei.
Musukoni: "He's truly mastered that style… but he keeps training anyway."
Shinoki's cheeks were already flushed as she watched him work.
Shinoki: "Oh… he's so hardworking~"
She murmured softly, captivated by his dedication. Yuzurei, however, remained oblivious, spinning his four wooden katanas mid-air as he struck the tree with precision.
Shioinkin: "Everyone! Breakfast is ready!"
He called from the kitchen.
Yuzurei's eyes lit up instantly. He sprinted toward the house, his four wooden katanas clattering to the ground behind him. Shinoki followed shyly, Emily and Jin Yuan trailing behind, with Musukoni walking calmly at the back.
At the dining table, Yuzurei had already claimed his spot, practically vibrating with excitement. Shinoki sat beside him, cheeks deep red, while Emily positioned herself next to Jin Yuan, who remained calm as ever. Musukoni and Shioinkin took their seats nearby. Toasts and fresh salads were neatly arranged before them.
Yuzurei attacked the food with both hands, munching loudly and enthusiastically.
Musukoni: "Did you even wash your hands?"
He asked, clearly annoyed.
Yuzurei: "Huh? …Ah, I forgot!"
He kept eating, puffed cheeks full and undeterred.
Shioinkin: "He's not even going to stop, is he?"
Shinoki blushed even deeper. Carefully, she used her napkin to wipe some crumbs off Yuzurei's cheek. He didn't even notice—he was completely absorbed in devouring his breakfast, every bit of energy still shining through.