Hinata's tone grew more candid. "To be honest, Samui, because of things that happened in the past, I've always had complicated feelings about Kumogakure. Not particularly good ones, even."
"I accepted this invitation largely because I support the peace my husband, Naruto Uzumaki, has always advocated, and because I wanted to respond to Raikage Darui's gesture of goodwill."
"I didn't come with very high expectations."
Samui listened quietly without interrupting.
Hinata's gaze softened and grew distant, as if she could see the resolute figure bathed in lightning the night before.
"But Yor's presence has changed how I see things. I saw her willingness to set aside her own happiness to protect the peace she believes in."
"It reminded me that the hard-won peace after the Fourth Shinobi World War came to this land, once torn by endless conflict, through the efforts of Naruto and many others like Yor who were willing to sacrifice for it."
She raised her head and met Samui's eyes, her gaze clear and steady. "As the Hokage's wife, perhaps I should take a more active role in setting an example and working toward reconciliation, rather than simply going along with what's arranged."
With that, Hinata held out her hand to Samui. Her voice was gentle but firm. "Let those painful memories fade with time."
"I hope Kumogakure and Konoha can begin a chapter of genuine, lasting peace."
A flicker of emotion crossed Samui's eyes. Without hesitation, she reached out and clasped Hinata's hand tightly.
"Lady Hinata, I'm so glad to hear you say that."
There was more warmth than usual in her voice. "To be honest, before you arrived, I kept wondering how to speak with you—how to convey Kumogakure's sincerity without reopening old wounds."
"But your generosity and foresight have earned my deepest respect. I