Hinata Feels Warmth; The Hyuga Clan's Values

Konoha's winter seemed to divide the inside and outside of Chiyo's Residence into two completely different worlds.

In the living room, the heater gave off a drowsy warmth, mingling with the fragrant steam rising from the dishes on the table.

Everyone sat around the low table, and the lively atmosphere was practically enough to blow the roof off.

"Hinata, try this! Aunt Mikoto's miso soup is absolutely amazing!

"It has special bonito flakes in it. It's so fresh it'll make your eyebrows fall off!"

Kushina Uzumaki, like an energetic older sister, filled a bowl to the brim for Hinata without giving her a choice. Tender tofu and seaweed floated in the milky broth, its aroma irresistible.

"Th... thank you, Aunt Kushina."

Hinata thanked her softly, holding the warm bowl in both hands.

The warmth not only soothed her cold little hands, but seemed to quietly seep into her heart, which had always been tightly wound.

Mikoto Uchiha played the role of a thoughtful mother. Smiling gently, she used serving chopsticks to pick up the fattest part of the grilled fish, carefully removed every tiny bone, and only then placed it lightly into Hinata's bowl.

"Eat more fish. It's good for your eyes and your body.

"Look at Mirai and Chiemi. They're so sturdy because they aren't picky eaters."

As she spoke, she looked fondly at her two daughters, who were busily stuffing their faces.

Mirai and Chiemi were practically the main force behind this "warm offensive."

One on each side, they "held Hinata hostage," surrounding her with the unrestrained enthusiasm unique to children.

"Hinata, Hinata, this tamagoyaki is sweet! There's milk inside! Here, have some!"

"And this fried shrimp too! Look how big it is! It tastes best with this sauce!"

"..."

The two little ones clumsily used their chopsticks