The festival was still in full swing, its lights illuminating every smiling face.
The little group of six-Naruto, Hinata, Ino, Karin, Hikari, and Hanabi-continued making their way slowly through the bustling crowds, enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Every so often, someone greeted Naruto along the way.
They also ran into Nawaki and Tsunade.
The bodies of Dan Katō and the others had already been sent to Orochimaru for preservation. If all else failed, they could be given new bodies once their souls were rescued.
None of them brought up those who had returned to life only to die again, unwilling to spoil the mood.
After a brief conversation, the two groups went their separate ways.
Yet Hanabi Hyuga, who was walking a little ahead, had a slight crease between her brows and seemed distracted.
From time to time, she glanced back, her gaze passing over Naruto, who was surrounded by Hinata, Ino, and Karin, before settling on Uchiha Hikari, who followed quietly just behind him like a shadow.
A flicker of mischief and understanding crossed Hanabi's eyes.
She suddenly stopped and turned to face Naruto and Hikari behind him.
"Naruto!"
Hanabi's clear voice drew everyone's attention.
Naruto stopped and looked down at her questioningly. "What's wrong, little Hanabi? Is there something else you want to try?"
Hikari also turned her gaze slightly, watching Hanabi calmly.
Hanabi put on a perfectly measured expression of concern. She first looked at Naruto, then winked at Hikari behind him, before speaking in a somewhat subdued voice full of concern:
"To be honest... I'm a little worried about Dad."
She paused, looking toward a certain spot in the festival crowd.
"When we came over earlier, I think I saw Dad drinking alone over there. He looked... kind of unhappy."
Hanabi raised her head, looking pleadingly at