The Ink Birds passed through the clouds, and Hanabi Hyuga leaned against Hinata Hyuga, feeling somewhat unwell.
"Big sister... are we there yet?"
Hinata looked down at her and reached out to tuck her windblown bangs behind her ear. "Almost. Look down there."
Hanabi followed her sister's gaze downward.
The once-hazy horizon grew clear, and a vast town spread out beneath the sunlight.
She recognized the houses built along the mountainside, the river running through the village, and the distant rock face carved with the faces of successive Hokage.
Although these sights, or rather these images, could not have been more familiar, Hanabi felt a little dazed at that moment.
Even the scenes etched into her mind had become unfamiliar.
She had only gone with her father and Neji to visit the Kaguya Clan in the Land of Water and strengthen their ties. Who could have known so much would happen?
"Konoha..." Hanabi murmured to herself.
The Ink Birds began to descend.
Air swept past her ears, carrying waves of heat rising from the ground.
Soon, she smelled the greasy smoke from barbecue stalls, felt the moisture from the river, and heard the bustle of people coming and going along the streets.
"We really are back." Hanabi gradually brightened.
Sai guided the Ink Birds to a smooth landing in an open space near the village entrance.
Naruto was the first to jump down. He straightened up and took a deep breath.
"Hehe, we're here."
With Hinata supporting her, Hanabi slid down from the bird's back. She wobbled when her feet touched solid ground and quickly grabbed her sister's arm.
Sakura walked over from the side, checked Hanabi's condition, and said, "Let's not stand around here. Let's get Hanabi to the hospital."
"Even though she's no longer in any serious danger,