Hinata's face grew even redder. "Th... thank you, Naruto-kun."
Watching her shy expression, Naruto felt something strange stir in his heart. He didn't know why, but every time he saw Hinata, his heart beat faster, and he stumbled over his words.
"Well... it's getting late. I'd better head home." Naruto stood up. "See you tomorrow."
"See you tomorrow." Hinata stood up too and walked him to the door.
Naruto left the Hyuga estate and took a deep breath, feeling his face grow warm.
"What's going on with me?" He touched his face, puzzled.
But he didn't dwell on it. He shook his head and headed home.
[The next day · Early morning · Konoha gates]
With his pack on his back, Naruto stood before Konoha's gates. The first light of dawn glimmered, and the fresh scent of grass and trees filled the air.
Before long, Hinata arrived too. Dressed in white traveling clothes and carrying a small bundle, she looked neat and ready to go. When she saw Naruto, a blush bloomed on her cheeks again.
"Good morning, Naruto-kun."
"Good morning," Naruto said. "Are you ready?"
"I'm ready."
"Then let's go."
They walked out through the village gates side by side and followed the main road north.
The morning light shone on them, stretching their shadows long.
Ahead of them lay an unknown road.
Behind them lay their home, the place they had to protect.
[Land of Fire · Northern forest · Noon]
Naruto and Hinata walked along a narrow forest path. Sunlight filtered through gaps in the leaves, dappling the ground with light and shadow. Birdsong echoed through the woods, and now and then, small animals darted through the undergrowth.
"Hinata, are you tired? Want to take a break?" Naruto asked.
"I'm fine," Hinata said. "But if you're tired,