The journey home felt profoundly different this time. Unmei had faced so much since joining Yankai—he had forged new friendships, battled fierce foes, and navigated the challenges brought about by Kazu's pain. But today, he was leaving it all behind to reconnect with the one person who had always stood by him: his father.
As he approached the small, loving home nestled on the quiet street, Unmei's heart swelled with warmth and anticipation. The sight of his father, sitting on the porch with a newspaper in hand, instantly brought a smile to his face. In that moment, he felt like a child again, returning home after a grand adventure, eager to share every meaningful detail.
"Dad!" Unmei called out, his voice imbued with excitement.
His father looked up, an expression of surprise crossing his features before melting into a beaming smile. Setting the newspaper aside, he stood, his eyes reflecting warmth and pride as he took in the sight of his son in the Yankai uniform. Without hesitation, he hurried over and enveloped Unmei in a tight, reassuring hug.
"Unmei… look at you! I'm so proud," his father murmured, his voice thick with emotion that echoed the deep bond they shared.
Unmei held him tightly, feeling the strength and comfort that had always anchored him throughout his life. His father's embrace reminded him that he was loved—truly and unconditionally. After his mother had left, fearful of the curse that Unmei bore, it was his father who had stayed, unwavering and supportive, ensuring that Unmei never felt alone or abandoned.
They pulled back, and his father's eyes sparkled with a mix of pride and unshed tears. "My boy, a true Yankai warrior," he said, his voice brimming with awe. "I always believed you'd find your way here one day. You're continuing the family legacy, and that means the world to me."
Unmei smiled shyly, a touch of vulnerability in his expression as he scratched the back of his head. "I still have a long way to go, but… it feels good, Dad. It feels right."
The two of them spent the rest of the day together, sharing stories and laughter that echoed with warmth. They sat on the porch, sipping tea as Unmei recounted his missions, the friends he'd made, and the challenges he'd faced along the way. His father listened intently, pride radiating from him as he hung onto every word, fully present in that sacred moment.
"Remember," his father said, a nostalgic smile gracing his lips, "when I first joined Yankai, I was just as inexperienced as you are now. I made mistakes and faced hardships more times than I can count… but I learned that being part of Yankai means so much more than just fighting Yokai. It's about protecting the people you care about, no matter the cost."
In his father's eyes, Unmei saw not just admiration, but a shared understanding of the challenges they both faced. It was a reminder that, despite the burdens they carried, love and support were always the greatest treasures.
Unmei nodded, absorbing his father's warm words with a heart full of gratitude. As his father shared stories of Kazu, Yoichi, Shiro, and others, Unmei could see the joy in his eyes, a reflection of the bond they shared. His father's smile was contagious, and the chuckles that escaped him during Unmei's recounting of memories reminded him of the simple joys in life.
As evening settled in, they prepared a modest dinner together, the laughter in the small kitchen creating a comforting atmosphere. Unmei felt the heaviness of recent struggles begin to lift, buoyed by the happiness radiating from his father and the realization of what he truly held dear. They later found themselves in the living room, savouring quiet moments while the stars twinkled softly outside, a reminder of the vastness of their connection.
When it was time to leave, Unmei's heart felt full, each beat resonating with the love and reassurance he had received. His father accompanied him to the door, wrapping him in a strong, nurturing hug.
"Take care of yourself out there, son. Remember, no matter what happens, this will always be your home. I'll be here, eager to hear all about your adventures," his father said, the sincerity in his voice wrapping around Unmei like a warm blanket.
Unmei smiled, determination shining in his eyes. "I promise, Dad. I'll make you proud."
As he walked away, the weight of expectation shifted, replaced by a profound sense of purpose. His father's pride and love resonated within him, a steady reminder of his mission and what truly mattered in his life. With his heart feeling lighter and his spirit buoyed by that connection, Unmei made his way back to the Yankai headquarters, ready to face whatever lay ahead, comforted by the knowledge that he carried his father's love and unwavering support with him, every step of the journey.