Just as Shin Uchiha was talking to Hinata, he frowned slightly. He could feel a space mark calling to him.
With an apologetic look, Shin Uchiha rubbed little Hinata's head and said:
"I have other things to take care of, so I can't stay any longer. Hinata, there are participants from many small ninja villages in these Chunin Ninja Exams, and they're a mixed bunch. You must look after your own safety, understand?"
At Shin's affectionate gesture, Hinata's face immediately flushed scarlet. Over the past few years, she had grown somewhat accustomed to their closeness; otherwise, she might well have fainted on the spot.
"Q-Shin, don't worry. I'll make sure to protect myself. And... and my two teammates are very good to me, too. With their help, I'm sure I'll be safe."
Hearing Hinata's words, Shin Uchiha finally turned his attention to Kiba Inuzuka and Shino Aburame nearby. He nodded to them and said:
"Hinata is a little timid. I'll be counting on you to keep her safe."
In truth, Hinata was completely different from before. As the acknowledged fiancée of the Uchiha Clan's leader, she naturally received considerable attention from the Hyuga Clan. Two of their jōnin had been secretly guarding her from nearby all along.
Shin Uchiha had also arranged for a squad of shinobi to follow Hinata Hyuga in secret to ensure her safety.
Still, Kiba Inuzuka and Shino Aburame were Hinata's teammates, and they looked after her quite well. It was only right for Shin to treat them courteously.
Seeing such an important figure as Shin Uchiha address him, Kiba Inuzuka hastily thumped his chest and promised:
"Don't worry, Lord Shin. With us here, no one will be able to hurt Hinata."
Shino Aburame, who had the least presence of them all, nodded as well.
Kiba