A Warm New Year's Eve

It was the last day of the year. Deep winter had settled in, and the night was still.

Days of noisy celebrations had finally ended. The village had shed its bustle and finery, most ninja had put away their battle gear, and a peaceful air of farewell and renewal lay over Konoha.

Kagami Uchiha's home was warm and inviting.

The fire burned brightly indoors, driving away the winter chill.

In the kitchen, Kagami wore comfortable everyday clothes as he prepared the ingredients with practiced ease. Flames danced beneath the stove, and the aroma of food slowly filled the house and courtyard.

Hatake Sakumo sat quietly in the living room, watching his teacher work. His eyes held both trust and respect.

The boy sat straight, his expression calm and reserved. For the moment, his usual sharp edge was gone, leaving only a gentle, well-behaved young man.

Kagami glanced back at him and smiled faintly. "Just a little longer. New Year's Eve dinner will be ready soon. Make yourself at home tonight and relax."

Sakumo answered softly, his gaze resting on his teacher. "Thank you for all the effort, sir."

Just as the house settled into a warm silence, a crisp knock came from outside the courtyard.

The gate opened, and a blonde girl hurried in.

It was Tsunade, bright and full of life at her age. The moment she entered, her eyes found Kagami, and she could not hide her delight.

"Big Brother Kagami!" Tsunade greeted him with an immediate smile.

Kagami looked at her and laughed helplessly. "Why aren't you spending New Year's Eve at home? What brings you here?"

"It's too dull there. Grandma Mito is talking with the guests from the Land of Whirlpools, and Nawaki keeps pestering me to play with him. I was bored stiff."

"Besides,