While the timid Hinata hesitated over whether to sit inside, two even younger juniors suddenly entered the shop.
"Naruko-senpai, did you like the gifts we gave you before?"
"Thank you... Um, why don't you two join me for some ramen?"
"That would be such an honor..."
They sat directly beside Naruko, taking the good seats.
Hinata, who happened to witness this from nearby, could only stand there.
"I'm already full... Goodbye..."
After saying that, Hinata turned and left.
"That scarf... You were planning to give it to Naruko, weren't you..."
Before long, Ino caught up with her.
Upon hearing that, Hinata nodded lightly.
"It's all right. You're Hinata Hyuga. You have to show some confidence..."
Ino encouraged her.
"Thank you, Ino..."
Compared to Ino, who dressed seductively and had become somewhat alluring, Hinata looked utterly plain.
So...
Ino's encouragement failed to reach her at all.
"I'll be going now..."
Hinata bowed, then trotted away.
At some point, it had grown completely dark.
With the gift bag held against her stomach, Hinata walked along the now-silent streets.
"After all... tonight is probably the night... I'll give Naruko the scarf I knitted myself..."
Having made up her mind, Hinata headed for Naruko's residence.
And somewhere Hinata failed to notice...
Several figures flew across the night sky.
They were strange birds that looked far taller than humans.
They had the wings and beaks of eagles, but claws like lions.
Many bandage-masked ninja stood atop these strange birds as they soared past.
They landed soundlessly in the Hyuga Clan mansion's courtyard.
Without hesitation, they swiftly invaded the various buildings and silently climbed the stairs.
Door after door was pulled open.
When they reached the final door...
"Found it..."
The emotionless voice revealed their target for the night.
"The Otsutsuki Main Family... on