Renji's squad had just returned to Konoha's gate when several clansmen on duty rushed over, surrounding them with a mix of scolding, warm questions, and over-the-top praise.
The once-quiet gate instantly became lively.
"Renji, this time you really brought glory to us!" said Uchiha Hanjian with a grin. "Not only did you make a name for yourself on the border, but at Takigakure's gate you held the line like a true warrior, one man holding back ten thousand!"
"Haha, Hanjian, did you come here just to greet us?" Uchiha Retsu asked.
"Of course. Your movements aren't exactly a secret. We even prepared a little gathering. Let's celebrate together later." Hanjian laughed.
"Good! Call the brothers, let's fire it up together!" Retsu said excitedly.
"No problem, leave it to me. You know I live for this kind of lively scene." Hanjian replied.
"Then let's disband here and go home first. Bring good news to your families," said the dual-blade warrior, Uchiha Kirin.
The squad scattered, each heading home.
When Renji arrived at his house, he hadn't even entered the door when the sound of a baby crying reached his ears.
He suddenly realized it had been half a year since he left. His mother must have given birth already. Curiosity in his heart, Renji pushed the door open.
The sight before him made him freeze: his mother Ran and Meimei each cradled a baby, while his father Takuma sat at the entryway sipping tea. All three turned to greet him warmly.
Ran smiled, "You hear that? They must have known their brother came home and wanted to greet you."
"You're back. It must have been a hard journey," Meimei said softly, cheeks slightly red, especially with his baby brother in her arms.
"Haha! Our Golden Asura has returned. You did well this time, especially shielding Konoha's comrades and letting them enter Takigakure to complete their mission. That shows real responsibility." Takuma looked proud. In his mind, even if his son distrusted Konoha's leadership, he still knew where to draw the line.
He had no idea Renji and his squad acted partly to cover themselves. Still, their deeds would be seen as embodying the Will of Fire. Even Sarutobi Hiruzen wouldn't openly denounce them.
"What are their names? Are they boys or girls?" Renji asked carefully, moving closer, instinctively standing by Meimei's side.
Meimei flinched slightly as he leaned close, but with the baby in her arms, she had nowhere to go. Their heads nearly touched.
"Haha, twins! Your mother's holding your little sister, Uchiha Yu. Meimei's holding your younger brother, Uchiha Chen," Takuma announced proudly.
"The names are mine," Ran added with a bright smile. "Nice, aren't they?"
"They sound wonderful! Much better than mine. The names have meaning and are so pleasant to hear." Renji quickly flattered her.
"See, my eldest son knows taste. Unlike certain illiterates. Now, since you're back, we should set your wedding soon. I want to hold a grandchild sooner rather than later." Ran chuckled, her gaze falling on Meimei.
Meimei's face turned crimson, as if blood might drip from it. Renji spoke up before she could react: "Everything depends on Mother's decision. As for me, I am more than willing. Meimei is a good girl, and I'll treat her well."
Meimei froze. She hadn't expected her fiancé, this young rising powerhouse whose fame was spreading through the village, to suddenly speak so directly. Her heart raced so fast it might burst. Struggling, she managed to say, "I will also listen to Aunt Ran's decision. To have this marriage is my blessing." Her head dropped low, refusing to rise again.
Ran was shocked. Her son had finally opened up. Heaven had pity, the iron tree had blossomed. She had expected excuses, but not this.
"Good. Since you both listen to me, Takuma, don't just sit there. Go find my elder brother and set a date. Let's pick a good day soon. Our family is going to hold a wedding."
"Eh? Ah, yes, yes! Right away." Takuma was still dazed. This fast? Did this mean he'd soon be a grandfather? Should he start thinking of names for his grandchildren? Then he realized his son and grandson would be so close in age. Would they end up constantly fighting? His mind a jumble, he jogged out the door.
"Mother, this fast? In the next few days?" Renji was startled. Was his mother rushing out of her longing for grandchildren?
"You don't understand! Bringing Meimei into the family has to follow proper etiquette. The soonest is a month. Don't worry, I won't slight her. She's a good child." Ran patted Meimei's head with a warm smile.
Renji sighed in relief. He didn't want things too rushed, fearing Meimei would feel neglected. Now that they would be one family, he had to treat her well.
Meimei was filled with joy. She felt fortunate. Other brides dreaded their mothers-in-law, but her "mother-in-law" was her loving aunt. She was treated with more kindness than others, never as an outsider. She truly felt she was the luckiest girl in the world.
"Haha, today is full of blessings. My precious son returns in triumph, and such a wonderful daughter-in-law joins our family. Tonight we'll celebrate!" Ran beamed.
Takuma returned not long after. Everyone looked at him, surprised at how fast he was back. "Did you get lost? Or forget something?" Ran teased.
"No, I didn't go far. I ran into my elder brother. When he heard the news, he said to leave it to him and told me to come home to spend more time with you all. He also said Renji should meet him tomorrow morning."
"Good. If you couldn't handle this small matter, you'd better not come home at all," Ran scolded lightly.
"Father, since Uncle called for me, I should go now. I want to hear what he says about the wedding." Renji insisted. Besides, he had his own greater plans to discuss.
"Alright, but come back quickly. Your fiancée's cooking has been improving. You're a lucky man." Ran teased again.
Meimei was already embarrassed beyond measure. If she weren't holding Chen, she'd have bolted to the kitchen. Instead she lowered her head like an ostrich. After a long pause she whispered, "Renji, come back soon. We'll wait for you for dinner." Then she buried her face again.
Renji smiled. "Alright. I'll be back soon. Don't wait too long." He turned and left.
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