Tides Beneath the Surface

"Don't lie to me." Naruto smiled. "I was Hokage for all those years. What kind of pressure haven't I faced? The way you look right now is exactly how I used to look—calm on the surface, with a storm raging inside."

He paused. "Ever since Tsukihime left, you've been worried, haven't you? Worried that the Otsutsuki main family would come again."

Boruto stopped eating and finally nodded. "Yeah. She said the main family wouldn't send anyone else, but something still feels wrong."

"It all went too smoothly," he said quietly. "A family that could send three Elite Jonin just backed down that easily? And even let me learn Fuinjutsu?"

"It feels like the calm before the storm."

After listening, Naruto didn't argue. He simply nodded. "Your instincts have always been sharp."

He stood and patted his son on the shoulder. "Then get ready. Tighten security, train the rookies, and contact our allies."

Then he headed for the door and glanced back with a smile.

"But don't forget—come home early. Kiyomi and Kota are waiting for you."

The door closed softly.

Boruto sat there for a long time, until the moon climbed to its zenith outside the window.

He suddenly remembered the last look Tsukihime had given him.

There had been warning in her eyes, and expectation, and even... a hint of pity.

"Forbidden Child... you're only just getting started."

He shook his head, gathered his things, and headed home.

On the way, he passed the Training Ground.

A small figure was still practicing.

"Why aren't you home yet? It's so late." Boruto walked over.

"Dad." Kota stopped and panted. "I wanted to practice a little longer."

"What are you practicing?"

"Rasengan." He rubbed his palms together, and a small, unstable sphere appeared. "I want to make it stronger."

Boruto looked