Bounded by Secrets

"Disciplined Hearts"

The Next Morning in the Practice Room

The early morning sun filtered through the windows of the practice room as Ayumu stood waiting for the selected group of members to arrive. He had called for a meeting with specific people, all of whom he wanted to have a serious conversation with. The room was quiet, almost too quiet, when the first three entered-Izumi, Jun, and Michi.

The tension in the air was thick, as all three had recently suffered the red chit punishment, and it was clear from their expressions that they were far from happy with Ayumu. He could sense their resentment, but chose to address it directly.

Ayumu: "Good morning, Izumi, Jun, Michi. I wanted to speak to you three first. I know the punishment wasn't pleasant, but it was necessary."

Izumi, always one to voice her thoughts, was the first to speak.

Izumi: "Necessary? You think shaving our heads and having us stand in front of everyone was necessary? We didn't deserve that!"

Jun crossed her arms, her voice quiet but filled with underlying anger.

Jun: "It wasn't fair. You could've chosen another way to discipline us, but you went for humiliation."

Michi, who had been quiet, finally spoke up, her tone cold.

Michi:"You could've at least given us a chance to explain. But no, you made your decision and we had to face the consequences. It was cruel."

Ayumu remained calm despite their anger.

Ayumu: "I understand you feel that way, but discipline is part of your training. You'll see it differently one day."

Before the conversation could go any further, Midori bounced into the room with her usual cheerful and carefree demeanor. Her energy was a stark contrast to the heavy atmosphere.

Midori:"Good morning, everyone!" she chirped with a wide grin, clearly unbothered by any form of punishment.

Ayumu's eyes softened when he saw her. Midori's behavior always amused him.

Ayumu: "Good morning, Midori. You seem in good spirits."

**Midori:** "Of course! I didn't get punished, so why wouldn't I be?" she giggled. "Plus, I've been practicing hard! I hope you've noticed."

Ayumu smiled faintly.

**Ayumu:** "I have. You're doing well. Keep it up."

Their light conversation was interrupted by the arrival of Daisy and Lily, Ayumu's two daughters. Their tired and frustrated expressions said everything before they even opened their mouths.

**Daisy:** "Morning, Dad..." she mumbled, slumping into a chair.

**Lily:** "Do we really have to be here?" she added, rubbing her temples. "We already know what you're going to say."

Ayumu sighed, fully aware of how predictable he could be to his daughters.

**Ayumu:** "You do, but it's still important. You know how things work."

**Daisy:** "Yeah, yeah. Training, discipline, blah blah..." her voice trailed off in exasperation.

**Lily:** "Can we just get this over with?"

Ayumu couldn't help but shake his head slightly, knowing they were right to be tired but not excusing their attitude.

Before he could continue, Shinobu and Shunsuke, Ayumu's twin sons, entered the room. As always, they were the picture of perfection-poised and disciplined. Ayumu smiled at the sight of them.