NOVEL NEXT WORLD Chapter 4: ch4
The school day flew by, and by four o'clock in the afternoon, many parents gathered at the gate of the ninja school, waiting for their children to emerge and take them home.
Among them was Ethan Uchiha, who had just finished his first day of school. His parents, Sarah Uchiha and Michael Uchiha, were waiting for him. As he looked up, he was surprised to see his grandfather, Isaac Uchiha, the great elder of the Uchiha clan. Being the grandson of the Great Elder meant that Ethan could never fully escape the legacy of the Uchiha, especially after the tragic events of the past.
"Grandpa, Mom, Dad, why are you here?" he greeted them, remembering how his mother had asked if he wanted her to pick him up, a request he had declined.
"My grandson's first day of school calls for celebration!" Isaac replied seriously.
"But I'm five years old! I can get home on my own," Ethan insisted, feeling a bit embarrassed.
Nearby parents exchanged glances, surprised that a five-year-old would insist on independence.
"Let's go! I've prepared a big meal for you to celebrate," Isaac said with a smile, picking Ethan up despite his protests. Ethan struggled a bit but ultimately couldn't escape his grandfather's hold.
Watching this, Michael felt a pang of envy. His father's affectionate treatment of Ethan was a stark contrast to his own childhood, where he often faced strict discipline.
"Ethan, see you tomorrow!" called out a voice, and Ethan turned to see his classmate, Kurenai Yuhi. She appeared shy, her face flushed, as her father, John Yuhi, a Konoha Jōnin, observed them closely.
"See you tomorrow," Ethan replied, trying to brush off the scrutiny.
"Who is that little girl?" his mother asked curiously.
"She's just my classmate," Ethan clarified, emphasizing their casual relationship to prevent any misunderstandings.
Ignoring his clarification, Sarah excitedly turned to Michael. "What do you think about her as a daughter-in-law? She seems nice and cute!"
"I think she'd be great," Michael agreed.
"Mom, come on! We're just classmates!" Ethan said, exasperated by their enthusiasm.
As they walked home, Michael led the way, carrying Ethan, who felt embarrassed by the attention.
At the Uchiha family mansion, Ethan found that the gathering included not just his immediate family but also several clan elders and prominent Jōnin. The main figures of the Uchiha clan had come together to celebrate him, eager to acknowledge the news of his eyes opening.
Soon, gifts began pouring in from all sides. "This is from your grandfather Joseph," one elder said, handing him a red envelope. "And this is from Grandma Hannah!" another chimed in, offering more gifts.
Ethan found himself overwhelmed with a mountain of presents—red envelopes, scrolls, and beautifully wrapped boxes. "I've never received so many gifts, even during New Year!" he thought, unable to express his surprise.
"Let me help you with those, little Ethan," his mother said, noticing his struggle and coming to his aid.
"Have you really opened your eyes?" Harold Uchiha, the current head of the Uchiha clan, asked, causing the room to fall silent. All eyes turned to Ethan, filled with concern and expectation, as everyone awaited his answer.