All in the family

Toneri observed the reactions of Dante, Talon, and Sephora with a wry smile as they considered the condition regarding their attire. He appreciated their individuality and willingness to adapt, which boded well for their future as members of Hoshigakure.

Dante's pragmatic approach and readiness to embrace the change earned a nod of approval from Toneri. His cousin's straightforwardness was something Toneri could relate to. The Golden Hyuuga had always been a person who valued purpose and clarity, and Dante's swift acceptance resonated with his values. It spoke of a shared understanding that the past, like old clothing, could be shed to embrace something new.

Talon's contentment and expression of gratitude touched Toneri. The boy had faced his share of prejudice as a Tau, and this fresh start represented a turning point.

Sephora's initial reluctance and acceptance demonstrated her resolve to leave her criminal past behind. Her question about her status in the Bingo Book was valid and something Toneri would address. He knew all too well the difficulties of reforming one's image in the ninja world, and he was ready to do whatever it took to help her on this path. 

"As for the colors, the traditional attire of the Hyuuga clan is usually white or black. However, we can look into customizing it to your preferences within those color schemes." He knew they needed to be comfortable with this change, and he would let them think they had a say in this particular matter.

He turned to Sephora, his tone bordered compassion. "Your name will be cleared from the Bingo Book, and your past as a criminal will be a mere memory. This is your fresh start in Hoshigakure, and you have my support in this journey."  He let the implications of his support hang in the air, an unspoken reminder that he held the key to their future.

Toneri's leadership was evident as he continued, "Training will begin in a few days, giving you time to get acquainted with the compound and adapt to your new surroundings. Feel free to explore and make yourselves at home."

He smiled at them. "We have much to look forward to, and I am confident that together, we will achieve great things as Team Fuku Hoshi." His smugness was thinly veiled, confident in his capabilities and team's potential.

[WC: 396]

Ayato's gaze moved between Dante, Talon, and Sephora, and he couldn't help but feel a swelling sense of pride for this emerging team. Even amidst this seemingly trivial discussion about attire, the enthusiasm and resolve emanating from them was a reassuring sign. They were ready to leave behind their old lives, with all their complexities and past transgressions, to embrace a fresh start within the pristine walls of Hoshigakure.

As Toneri took the lead, Ayato couldn't help but admire his brother's finesse in handling the team. 

"Almost poetic," He thought, about how these family bonds, strengthened by time and shared experiences, naturally seemed to translate into a cohesive leadership dynamic. Ayato, by nature, was reserved, often letting his actions speak louder than words. He knew the importance of each member's unique personality, of having a fiery Dante, a calm Talon, and a determined Sephora within their ranks. It was this diversity that gave their team strength and adaptability.

Sephora's valid question about her status in the Bingo Book lingered in Ayato's mind. He understood the hurdles they would have to clear for her to shake her criminal past thoroughly. This transformation wouldn't happen overnight, but it was worth undertaking. 

Toneri's explanation about the traditional colors of the Hyuuga attire and the offer to customize within those color schemes was met with understanding. "While I prefer more modest attire myself," Ayato added, glancing at his black and white Shinobi robes with the Hoshigakure emblem on the back, "I understand the importance of uniformity in this case."

As Toneri assured Sephora of her cleared name, Ayato remained a silent yet attentive presence. His unspoken reassurance to the team embodied his dedication to their welfare and growth. This fresh start was not only for Sephora but for all of them, and together, they would embark on this journey of redemption and self-discovery.

He finally nodded, expressing his approval for the path they were on. It was a path of transformation, and Ayato couldn't help but feel their bonds strengthening with each passing moment. Team Fuku Hoshi had the potential to be a shining example of unity, determination, and resilience, making their mark within Hoshigakure and beyond.

With a serene countenance, Ayato contemplated the future. The rain outside continued to pour, a cleansing backdrop to the new beginnings they were forging within the Hyuuga compound.

[WC: 390]

Dante felt relieved knowing his twin sister would be erased from the bingo book! As a team, it would be beneficial to them as a whole. Everything was a fresh start for the three of them. The rain was steadily pouring outside, and it was pretty relaxing. Now that they had worked out all the details, he was ready for a hot shower and rest!

"Waiting a few days for us to settle in is a good idea. I haven't slept very well, if at all, in quite some time! I want to be excused from my room. Is that ok?" Dante said as he stood up. If he was ditching the leather, now's the time since he desperately needed a hot shower! Hopefully, he was speaking politely, considering Dante wasn't used to using manners or politeness with his past way of life.

Was he supposed to wait for a yes? Or was he just supposed to leave the room? Dante decided he would stay. Leaving his past behind meant changing everything, including mannerisms! It felt different but that was ok with him, this is a part of change after all!

201

Talon was beyond grateful for this opportunity to start over. He was with his closest friends and people who accepted him as family! What more could a guy ask for? Nothing. He was happy for Sephy. She needed this new start! Now she doesn't have to worry about her past at all! No crimes or fear that she is being hunted down. That has to be a huge relief! This would be one less worry to deal with as a team. Talon was pretty tired, so being on the run will do that to you. He listened as Dante spoke up using manners! He had never heard him use manners or ask permission before! Change is good.

Talon himself was tired. At least training didn't start today. Thank goodness Toneri and Ayato let them adjust to their new life before training and missions began.

"May I be excused as well?" Talon asked respectfully after Dante did. Yeah, that felt weird. Just because change is good doesn't mean you automatically know what to do or how to do things! However Talon does know how to be respectful, he's just never been in a situation where manners were needed.
(203)

Sephora's eyes welled up with tears as the words she had longed to hear for some time came out of Toneri's mouth! She was so happy, with tears of joy streaming down her face as she ran over to him, nearly knocking him over as she threw her arms around him!

"Thank you! You don't know how much this means to me!" she said to him as she cried. After leaving Volcano and the kidnapping incident here in Hoshi, Sephora realized that her criminal record would be an issue. Sephora was done with that lifestyle, especially after realizing how it felt to be kidnapped. Maybe that incident was the wake-up call she needed!

"I swear that old lifestyle is the past. I will never go that route again. Thank you, guys, for allowing me to change and start over. I am lucky to have such a family!" Sephora promised as she cried on Toneri's shoulder, hugging him. They were closer now that they were older, but not so much in the past, considering they both tend to think alike.

Ayato and Toneri have shown her that her entire clan does not hate her. She is not a complete outcast. In a way, she agreed with Dante and Talon. She indeed needed a shower and some sleep. Getting adjusted shouldn't be too hard for Sephora; she is used to adapting to different environments.

(WC:242)

Toneri observed his team members expressing relief and gratitude with a wry smile. "Well, it's nice to see you all excited about leaving your old wardrobe behind. A fresh start deserves fresh attire, right? I promise the Hyuuga clan's traditional clothing isn't that bad, and we can make some customizations to keep you comfortable."

He then responded to Dante's plea for a good rest with a hint of humor, "Sure, Dante. You're more than excused. A hot shower kind of looks like you are in dire need of one-for-one. Just don't hog all the hot water. We've got a whole compound to ourselves, so find a cozy spot and rest up."

Turning to Talon, Toneri nodded with a chuckle. "You're free to explore the compound and get settled in. There are some interesting places here, and you'll get to know them all soon."

Sephora's emotional outpouring didn't go unnoticed by Toneri. He allowed her a moment of heartfelt emotion, then responded witty, "Don't go around ruining my reputation as the stoic leader with all those tears. But seriously, Sephora, I expect you to beat them both in the training sessions."

Toneri's lighter tone conveyed his support and the unity of the team, emphasizing that they were entering this new chapter together. "Now, go freshen up and get some rest. We've got some exciting days ahead, and I can't wait to see how Team Fuku grows and excels here in Hoshigakure."

WC: 240

The dinner gradually neared its end, and Ayato couldn't help but reflect on the path he and his newfound family had walked together. As he gazed at their faces, he saw a tapestry woven with threads of courage and unity, much grander than anything he had anticipated when he first embarked on this journey. A journey full of challenges and trials had brought him not just friends but a much larger family than he had ever expected. From Natsuki, his devoted sister, to Toneri, the brother with whom he had shared a rivalry. And now this team, made of distant cousins he had reconnected, all represented bonds he had built over the years.

At this moment, the past and present converged in his mind, and he remembered the time when he had been a young ninja sitting alone at this very table, feeling overwhelmed by the weight of responsibility. Back then, he had been on the verge of giving up. Yet, Yasaki had stepped in, offering wisdom that changed his perspective. The Old Kage had taught him that their bloodline didn't determine the accurate measure of a ninja but by how they wore the headband, with determination, purpose, and unwavering commitment.

With this memory in mind, Ayato spoke, his voice carrying the weight of years of experience and the conviction of a leader. "Remember, my friends, it is not only the blood in our veins but the resolve in our hearts that defines us. Tonight, we've demonstrated the strength of unity, and as we move forward, let us wear our headbands with the determination that brought us here. United, we can achieve greatness."

He dismissed his guests with these words, knowing it was their time to shine. For the first time in a long while, a genuine smile crossed Ayato's face. The presence of these loyal souls had lightened the burden of leadership, and it was now their collective journey that would shape the future of Hoshigakure.

[WC: 328]
[TWC: 4,135 (cumulative)]
[EXIT]

---

Claims:

To Toneri with a 25% discount

1125 to B-rank Whirlwind Thrust [1125/1125]
1125 to  B-rank False Darkness [1125/1125]
1125 to B-rank Searing Migraine [1125/1125]
750 to C-rank Gale Push [750/750]
discarding 10 remaining wc

Talon and Dante are accepted as ninjas of Hoshigakure no Sato with the rank of Genin.

Dante smiled as he was excused from the table. He was proud of himself for having used his manners. He watched as Sephora practically knocked Toneri over, hugging him, and listened closely as Toneri and Ayato spoke. Both of them were sage members of the Hyuuga clan and were looked up to by the younger generation. Dante respected both men very much! He nodded in agreement before following a maid to his room. The maid was carrying garments in her hand, and she explained that his wardrobe was already filled and told Toneri or Ayato to let him know if alterations were needed.

Dante had to admit, his room was very comfortable and his bathroom was lovely! Yes the Hyuugas were a clan who knew how to live and take care of their own, this was proven through the dinner they just had and the welcome he and Talon had received. He walked into the bathroom and shut the door. Time for a bit of R&R!

Exit

Claiming Hoshi Nin's status

TWC: 2218
+22 stats
6 to Vigor
6 to Chakra
5 to speed
5 to strength

250/250 to https://www.narutoroleplaygame.com/t45846-sparks-v7#357693

500/500 to
https://www.narutoroleplaygame.com/t49564-feint#376747

Talon was just happy to be accepted by this clan. It's not easy being a Tau. You're judged on your looks, your history, and your status! Most Taus look pretty different from others, and their appearance often freaks out anyone who looks in their direction. Most Telaus also have a missing-nin status and history; Taus are created to be killers, after all. How do you think most get the hearts they need to survive? Not ALL Taus, but many of them fall into the said categories. Talon and his brother Kurai were not part of the categories mentioned above. Except for the missing Ninja, they were that and had a creepy appearance, but they were not violent with a long rap sheet of violence—quite the opposite.

Talon nodded towards both Toneri and Ayato, he respected both for the way they handle the current affairs in the room. Poor Toneri, Sephora was so overjoyed she almost knocked him over! He laughed as he stood up and followed the maid who was waiting for him. She led him to his room and let him check out the wardrobe. The attire wasn't as bad as he worried it might have been. He liked it. After the maid left, Talon leaned back on his bed and fell fast asleep!

[Exit]

Hoshi Nin Status

TWC: 1,771

17 stats

+4 vigor
+5 chakra
+4 speed
+4 strength

1,000/1000 words for the c rank of:
https://www.narutoroleplaygame.com/t55683-moving-earth-core-v7-2#416834