The journey grew lighter after that. They laughed, shared stories, and even faced danger together. At one point, a beast emerged from the dry land, snarling and ready to strike. Mamoru stood his ground, his blade flashing once. The creature fell, and soon they roasted its meat over a fire, eating until their bellies were full.
Before long, the landscape shifted ,the cracked road giving way to greener paths. A crossroads appeared: one road led to the heart of Kibi while the other wpuld lead toward Ringo.
Here, their paths would part.
Mizu Tokito set his bundle down and turned to Mamoru with a smile. "Mamoru… if you ever find yourself in Kibi, come visit us. My wife is a wonderful cook ,you'll be treated to a great feast, I promise you."
Mamoru grinned and bowed his head slightly. "Then I'll be sure to visit. I'll hold you to that promise."
Muichiro stepped forward, his small fists clenched with determination. "When I'm older, Mamoru… I want to train under you. I want to be strong like you are."
Mamoru placed a hand gently on his shoulder . "Then grow well, Muichiro. When the time comes, I'll be waiting to teach you."
Muichiro's face lit up with joy.
Yuichiro, silent until now, finally muttered, "Thank you… for your words. And… for everything." He couldn't quite meet Mamoru's eyes, but the sincerity in his voice was unmistakable.
Mamoru nodded, smiling softly.
And with that, the groups parted ways. The Tokitos turned toward Kibi, their figures growing smaller in the distance, while Mamoru, Gyomei, and Onimaru set their sights on Ringo.
With the Tokito family
"Dad ,mom's sicknesses have been frequent lately " Yuichiro said
"Yeah I noticed to , maybe if we can get her more blankets and warmer clothes she'll be fine "Muichiro said in worry
"What good would more clothes do , we need to take her to a doctor. Dr Kocho is our best bet "Yuichiro said
"Don't worry too much you're mother will be fine , ill get her some herbs if her condition worsens , there's a particular deep in the mountains , its said to heal anything ."
Yuichiro looked away in annoyance , why wouldnt his father listen .
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