Time drifted by, like a quiet river slowly flowing forward. Since the day Asuma was overwhelmed by Youyu's presence, he had kept his distance, a lingering unease overshadowing his spirit.
Meanwhile, Youyu's dominance at the Ninja Academy only grew. Yet recently, he had noticed Hong and Rin becoming more attentive than ever. Both had taken to bringing him fine wines and even racing to invite him for lunch.
Today was no different.
"Youyu, eat more. I made this bento myself," Rin offered, her cheeks flushed as she handed him a neatly packed lunch, her gaze hopeful.
"Youyu, my father treasures this bottle. Here, have a taste." Kurenai pushed forward a well-sealed bottle, her tone both proud and eager.
"Well, let me try it," Youyu grinned, accepting the bottle from Kurenai and taking a deep drink.
"Gulp, gulp—Ahh! Excellent wine!"
The flavor lingered on his palate, and his eyes shone with satisfaction.
"Ding! Drinking satisfaction detected. Kendo comprehension +3."
The system's alert confirmed it was indeed a rare vintage, and Youyu relished the result. Ordinary wines might give him a modest boost, but this bottle had granted him an impressive three points of Kendo comprehension.
Seeing him drink her wine first, Kurenai's face lit up with joy, casting a satisfied glance at Rin, who was visibly frustrated.
Rin pouted, a bit envious. She had worked hard to make this bento, tailoring it specifically to Youyu's preferences. Earlier, she'd been caught sneaking wine from her family stash and had to hide her supply better, resorting to her cooking skills instead.
"Fine, I won't lose!" she thought, clenching her fist with a determined look.
"Youyu, it's no good to drink on an empty stomach. Here, try my bento!" Rin said with a sweet smile, opening the lid to reveal a large assortment of beautifully arranged meat dishes.
"Well, you have a point." Youyu's eyes lit up, realizing he had almost neglected the balance between drink and food. In front of him lay a bento brimming with different meats—perfect for his tastes. He picked up a piece of fried chicken, savoring each bite.
"Delicious!" he praised, and took another hearty sip of wine. "Now this…this is bliss."
"Ding! Drinking detected, physique +5!"
"Ding! Congratulations! The main body has broken through the critical value and reached the elite Jounin level, Chakra +15."
As the system chimed in his mind, Youyu's satisfaction grew, his strength subtly advancing, fueled by the hearty meal and the fine wine that accompanied it.