The breeze along the Naka River no longer carried yesterday's heaviness. After the Third's sacrifice, Konoha had finally welcomed the dawn of hope. News of Lady Tsunade's return was like a timely rain, washing away the gloom that hung over the villagers' hearts.
The small courtyard in the Uchiha Clan Compound was as peaceful as ever that morning. Sasuke sat on a stone bench, his eyes half closed as he steadied his breathing. Toru Kujyo leaned beneath the eaves, idly turning a leaf in his hand. Just then, a soft knock came at the courtyard gate.
"Sasuke-kun, Lord Toru Kujyo, sorry to disturb you." Hinata's gentle voice came from outside.
Sasuke opened his eyes and looked toward the gate. It slowly swung open, revealing Hinata and Hanabi. Hinata held two neatly folded sets of clothing in her arms, a shy blush on her face, while Hanabi peered around curiously, her Byakugan eyes shining.
"Hinata, Hanabi." Toru Kujyo straightened and greeted them with a smile.
"What brings you here?" Sasuke's voice was cool, but lacked its usual unapproachable edge.
Hinata stepped forward and offered them the clothes. "Today is the Fifth Hokage's inauguration ceremony. The village leaders had these outfits prepared especially for you to wear." Her voice grew quieter, and her gaze drifted involuntarily toward Toru Kujyo.
Toru Kujyo accepted the clothes. The fabric was soft to the touch-formal attire specially made in Konoha, with Land of Fire motifs embroidered into the details. He nodded in satisfaction. "That was thoughtful of them."
Sasuke took his own outfit and looked at Hinata. She wore a pale purple kimono that day, looking particularly graceful and refined. Remembering the care Toru Kujyo always showed her, and the indefinable closeness between them, a thought suddenly came to him.
"Thank you... sister-in-law." The words slipped