For the first time, Haruto stood across from his father with a real wooden training sword. It was heavier, sturdier, and far less forgiving than the practice blade he had used in secret. His small hands gripped it tightly, arms trembling as he raised the weapon into stance.
Before the Patriarch could speak, two voices broke the stillness.
"Father!" Haruno and Harumi rushed into the yard together, their feet slapping against the stone path.
Haruno, her breath quick but eyes burning with determination, called out, "If Haruto trains under you, then so should we!"
Harumi nodded quickly beside her, clutching a small pouch of herbs she had been carrying. "Yes, Father! I want to learn too. I don't want to just watch anymore."
The Patriarch's gaze shifted between the three. He had expected this. Triplets, born under the same storm — none of them would accept being left behind.
Haruno stepped forward, fists clenched. "I've meditated with Mother every day. I can control my breathing. I won't fall behind."
Harumi raised her little hand, still gripping her herb pouch. "And I know how to heal small cuts already. I can use herbs for fevers. But… I also want to hold a sword, like my brother."
The Patriarch folded his arms, silent for a moment. The three children stood before him, each stubborn in their own way.
Finally, he let out a slow breath. "Very well. If you wish to train, then prove it. The sword does not recognize excuses. Only effort."
He stepped back, drawing three wooden blades from the rack. One by one, he handed them out — first to Haruto, then Haruno, then Harumi. The weight startled the sisters; their arms dipped slightly as the wood settled into their hands.
"From this day," the Patriarch said, his voice low and firm, "you will train together. But know this — the sword is not a game. If you cannot endure, step aside."
Haruto's eyes sharpened. Haruno gritted her teeth. Harumi's grip trembled, but she did not loosen her hold.
Triplets. Three siblings. Three blades raised under the same roof.
And for the first time, they would stand together as disciples of the Kagitsuchi Sect.