As he stepped out of the still-bustling, noisy Konoha Hospital, the air outside still smelled of smoke and dust, but it lacked some of the oppressive odor of disinfectant and the groans of pain.
Naruto did not immediately return home or seek out a secluded spot suitable for studying the power of "connection."
Instead, he changed direction and headed toward the area patrolled by the Hyuga Clan. With his sensory abilities, he soon found Hinata at a relatively intact street corner, leading her clansmen in a thorough search.
Hinata had her Byakugan activated and was intently scanning the interior of a half-collapsed building ahead.
She looked somewhat tired, with fine beads of sweat at her temples, but her spirits seemed steady. Though her voice was soft as she directed her clansmen, her instructions were clear and organized.
When Naruto suddenly appeared, she froze for a moment. Then a barely perceptible blush rose to her cheeks, and she quickly deactivated her Byakugan, straightening up a little awkwardly.
"N-Naruto-kun... what brings you here? Is... something wrong?"
Hinata asked quietly, concern in her eyes.
"Nothing. I just came to see how things were going here."
Naruto looked her over. Once he confirmed that she was uninjured and her chakra expenditure was within reasonable limits, he nodded and replenished her chakra.
"Be careful, even with your Byakugan. The enemy is crafty."
"Right!"
Hinata nodded firmly, her eyes flashing with the joy of being cared for and the resolve that came with his approval.
Without exchanging any more pleasantries, Naruto turned and left.
Knowing Hinata was safe put his mind somewhat at ease.
His next destination was the Hyuga Clan Compound.
Following the fierce battle, clansmen stood guard at the compound entrance. The atmosphere was solemn, but there was no panic.
After his arrival was