"Stupid Dad!" Boruto protested at once, pointing at himself. "When have I ever been that irresponsible? I can handle things on my own now! Just wait for the news of my brilliant exploits in Kirigakure!"
"You idiot, Boruto!" Sarada gave the back of his head a light punch without hesitation, light flashing across her glasses. "Listen to Lord Hokage!"
"Ow! Sarada, you—!"
Naruto watched the familiar scene before him: his son hopping in outrage, a girl scolding him, and another teammate smiling as he looked on.
For a moment, he could almost see himself, Sakura, and Sasuke years ago.
Their expressions and the way they interacted were so alike. His gaze lingered on Sarada's earnest, grown-up manner, and a smile of deep pride and nostalgia rose unbidden to his lips.
She really is Sakura's daughter.
He marveled inwardly. That capable streak and violent temper had clearly been passed down.
"All right, quiet down." Naruto clapped his hands to bring the children's attention back to him. His expression turned serious, but his eyes were full of hope.
"Remember, the main purpose of this trip is to get to know one another. Friendship comes first, sparring second."
"My generation has been through too much and carried too much. Some things... the deep divides between villages, the suspicion, even the hatred, have built walls too thick to tear down overnight."
His gaze swept across their young faces. "That's why we're placing so much hope in your generation."
"I hope you'll see things with your own eyes, feel them with your own hearts, and forge new bonds that belong to your era."
"That will matter more than learning any powerful Ninjutsu."
He turned to Sarada and added, "Sarada, if Moegi has to step away to handle something, keep an eye on Boruto for her."