Snowflakes drifted down outside the window, soon piling up in a thick layer in the courtyard. It was rather cold outside, but everyone inside was warm.
The wood-burning stove crackled, and the people gathered around the table broke into laughter from time to time.
Surrounded by this atmosphere, River wore a warm smile as well.
The Naruto World was completely different from the pirate world. Even the atmosphere in the air felt different.
Bonds, friendship, hardship, and all the conflicts of war painted everything in this world in shades of black and white.
Time passed, and another night went by in the blink of an eye.
At daybreak the next morning, Minato went to work, while River took Guy and Kabuto, who had only just turned six this year, into the courtyard to train.
"You already know how to cultivate chakra, so starting today, we'll learn something new."
River smiled as he spoke to Kabuto.
"Yes, Lord Sui!"
Kabuto answered loudly, full of enthusiasm.
"Building up chakra takes steady work over time, and it's closely tied to your physical fitness and vitality. You can't rush it. But learning to use it and control it precisely is something you can master with a short period of training!"
River spoke softly.
Kushina stood leaning against the doorway, her belly swollen, watching them.
A tender smile appeared on her face. As she stroked her belly, she could clearly feel the strong heartbeat of the life within.
"Before long, there should be another little one in this courtyard!"
As time passed, her due date drew ever closer, making Kushina look forward to it even more.
In the courtyard, River taught Kabuto the basics of training.
A short while later, he led Guy and Kabuto outside for a training run.
"For a ninja, physical fitness