When Uemon brought up the matter of making ninja tools, Sakumo gave a slight nod, anticipation glimmering in his eyes.
"That's right. I came here hoping you could make a one-of-a-kind ninja tool tailored specifically for my student."
Uemon's face lit up with excitement, as though he'd rediscovered a passion he thought he'd lost.
"Leave it to me. Bring him over. I haven't had a chance to get back to work in a long time, and this time I'll make an excellent ninja tool."
Sakumo nodded with a smile, then turned and left to find Hayato.
In another corner of the workshop, Yuta watched Sakumo leave. His eyes reddened as he dabbed away his tears, deeply moved.
"Master, I'm so glad you've found your strength again." His voice caught, but he was filled with joy.
Uemon walked over to Yuta and patted him on the shoulder.
"You've worked hard all this time, Yuta."
Yuta shook his head, his face lighting up with another radiant smile. "It wasn't hard, Master. I always believed you'd pull through."
Remembering how Uemon and Kaori had taken him in and taught him the craft of making ninja tools, Yuta was filled with gratitude.
He had never once considered leaving the workshop. It had become his second home.
Meanwhile, Sakumo had found Hayato wandering outside. After a brief conversation, the two returned to Uemon's workshop together.
Uemon looked at Hayato, surprise flickering in his eyes.
He'd assumed it would be Shota, whom he'd met at the izakaya before. He hadn't expected this young ninja.
He glanced at Sakumo in confusion, as if asking whether there'd been some mistake.
Sakumo understood at once and introduced him with a smile. "Uemon, this is my student, Hayato. He's an excellent ninja, and I'm sure he'll be the perfect wielder