The next morning, Hinata blinked blearily at the bright morning light filtering through the curtains. She sighed softly, stretching her stiff muscles and shaking off the lingering drowsiness. Rising from her bed, she stripped off her silk pajamas, folding them neatly before changing into a simple yet comfortable outfit for the day.
As she finished brushing her hair, a knock echoed softly against her door.
"Come in," she called.
Hiashi stepped inside, his usual composed expression softening slightly as his eyes met hers. Hinata immediately straightened, a reflex ingrained by years of discipline.
"Good morning, Father," she said with a polite bow.
"Good morning, Hinata," Hiashi replied, his tone calm but carrying an unusual warmth. He hesitated briefly, as if searching for the right words. "You performed well yesterday. I… am proud of you."
The simple statement, though quietly spoken, made Hinata's heart swell. "Thank you, Father."
Hiashi nodded, stepping further into the room. "Today, you will rest. You've earned it after your efforts. Spend some time with your sister, Hanabi. She's been eager to see you."
Hinata's surprise was evident. It wasn't often her father made such suggestions. "Of course, Father. I'd be happy to."
"I've arranged for Ko to accompany you," Hiashi added, his authoritative tone returning slightly. "You will also need to visit the village office to have your shinobi registration completed and your picture taken for your file. Do not delay in that task."
"Yes, Father," Hinata replied, feeling a mix of relief and duty.
Hiashi's gaze softened once more as he placed a hand briefly on her shoulder. "Enjoy your time with Hanabi. She admires you more than she lets on."
Hinata blinked, momentarily stunned by the gesture. By the time she found her voice, Hiashi had already turned to leave. "I will, Father. Thank you," she said quietly, her chest warming with gratitude.
As the door closed behind him, Hinata allowed herself a rare smile. Her father's pride and encouragement were fleeting but precious moments.
"Hinata-Hime, are you ready?" A voice asked followed by a knock on the door.
Standing up Hinata made her way to the door, opening it only to be greeted by a surprise.
With that, Hanabi suddenly lunged forward, sneaking under Ko's watchful gaze and pouncing on Hinata.
"Onee-chan!" she squealed, wrapping her arms around Hinata with a mischievous grin.
Hinata stumbled slightly, laughing softly as she steadied herself. "Hanabi!" she chided gently, though her smile betrayed her amusement.
Unlike the composed demeanor Hanabi usually displayed around others, here, in the privacy of their family courtyard, she lived up to her name—a spirited firecracker. Her bright laughter filled the space as she pulled back, hands on her hips in mock triumph.
"You let your guard down, Onee-chan!" Hanabi teased. "What kind of shinobi are you if you can't even dodge me?"
Hinata shook her head fondly, brushing off her sister's playful challenge. "Maybe I let you catch me on purpose," she replied, her tone light.
Hanabi gasped, feigning shock. "Impossible! You're just making excuses because I'm too fast!"
Ko, standing nearby, cleared his throat softly, his expression caught between professionalism and suppressed amusement. "Hanabi-sama, perhaps you should save your energy for the market."
Hanabi pouted but relented, slipping her hand into Hinata's. "Fine, but only because I'm hungry," she declared.
Hinata chuckled, giving her sister's hand a gentle squeeze. "Let's go, then. I'm sure there will be something at the market to satisfy you."
It was moments like this that made Hinata feel whole. Here, walking beside her spirited younger sister, she felt neither the weight of her father's expectations nor the ever-present scrutiny of the clan. Instead, she felt a quiet sense of belonging, as if the world beyond the compound walls held simpler joys waiting to be discovered.
A small smile played at the corners of Hinata's lips as they strolled toward the gate, Ko following closely behind. Hanabi's exuberance began to settle, her bouncing steps slowing to match Hinata's calm stride. Her younger sister's expression softened, her excitement giving way to a more serene demeanor as they approached the world beyond their guarded home.
Hinata glanced down at her, the corners of her eyes crinkling with affection. "Oh, what will I do with you, Hanabi?" she teased gently, squeezing her hand once more.
Hanabi tilted her head up at Hinata, her lips curving into a sly grin. "Well, you could start by getting me something sweet at the market," she replied, her eyes glinting with mischief.
Hinata laughed softly, shaking her head. "We'll see."
As they stepped beyond the compound gates, Hinata took a moment to savor the crisp morning air, a rare sense of peace settling over her. The streets of Konoha bustled with life, vendors calling out their wares and families strolling together, filling the air with a lively hum. It was a stark contrast to the rigid silence of the Hyuga estate, and Hinata found herself soaking in the warmth of it all.
Hanabi tugged at her hand, pointing toward a stall selling dango. "Look, Onee-chan! Can we get some?" she asked, her enthusiasm bubbling to the surface again.
Hinata smiled indulgently. "Alright, but just one skewer. We'll need to save room for lunch."
Hanabi cheered, dragging Hinata toward the stall,Hinata's eyes longfully tracing the cinnabon shop they just passed by as Ko trailing behind them with a faint smile tugging at his usually stoic face.
Hanabi skipped ahead, practically bouncing as she tugged Hinata toward the dango stall. "I bet they have the sweet soy sauce kind! That's my favorite!" she said, her voice filled with excitement.
Hinata chuckled softly. "You always choose the sweetest ones," she teased, letting her sister's energy guide her.
"Of course! What's the point of eating if it's not delicious?" Hanabi replied, looking back at Hinata with a cheeky grin. "Onee-chan, you should try it too. You're too serious sometimes—you need more sweetness in your life!"
Hinata gave her a small, amused smile, her gaze flickering briefly back to the Cinnabon shop they had passed. The warm aroma of cinnamon and sugar still lingered faintly in the air, and she couldn't help but feel a pang of longing.
As they approached the dango stall, Ko paused and leaned closer to Hinata. "Hinata-Sama, I'll step away for just a moment. Please remain here withHanabi-Sama," he said, bowing slightly before heading off in the direction of the shop.
Hanabi didn't seem to notice, too preoccupied with choosing her skewer. "This one! Oh, no, wait—this one has extra sauce!" she said, pointing eagerly at the display.
The vendor chuckled, preparing the skewer she selected. "Quite the spirited little sister you've got there," he commented to Hinata, handing the dango over to Hanabi, who immediately took a bite with a satisfied hum.
"She's full of energy," Hinata replied softly, watching Hanabi devour her treat.
Before long, Ko returned, carrying a small paper bag. He approached Hinata, his expression as neutral as ever, though there was a glimmer of something softer in his eyes. "Hinata-Hime," he said, holding out the bag.
Hinata blinked in surprise, accepting it cautiously. "Ko… what is this?"
"A small treat," he said simply, giving her a slight smile. "I noticed you looking at the Cinnabon shop earlier."
Hinata's cheeks flushed faintly as she peeked into the bag, finding a warm, perfectly frosted cinnamon roll inside. "Thank you, Ko," she said quietly, her voice filled with genuine gratitude.
Hanabi tilted her head up, her mouth still full of dango. "What did you get, Onee-chan?"
"Something sweet," Hinata replied, her smile widening just a bit as she carefully folded the bag closed. "I'll save it for later."
Hanabi huffed playfully. "You're so patient! I'd eat it now if I were you."
Before Hinata could respond, Hanabi gasped suddenly, pointing down the street. "Look, Onee-chan! What is that?!"
Hinata followed her sister's gaze to see Naruto Uzumaki walking confidently toward the Hokage Tower, his face painted with bright red swirls and whisker-like markings. He looked utterly unbothered by the curious glances and whispers of the people around him.
"It's Naruto," Hinata murmured, her eyes softening as she watched him. Her gaze lingered on the proudly worn shinobi headband, stirring memories of the "sealing scroll incident." 'that's good' she thought. it was bound to happen, and she'd been worried if it didn't go through like it was supposed too.
"What's he doing? And why does his face look like that?" Hanabi asked, tilting her head in confusion.
Hinata didn't answer right away, a faint smile tugging at her lips. "I'm… not sure," she admitted, her tone thoughtful.
Ko, standing beside them once more, cleared his throat softly. "That boy always seems to find a way to stand out," he remarked, his tone neither harsh nor amused, but merely observant.
Hanabi giggled. "He's funny! Do you think he's going to see the Hokage like that?"
"Knowing Naruto… probably," Hinata said, a small smile drifting from her lips as she let out a small laugh. "Come on its probably high time that we head to the hokage's tower as well before lunch"
Ko gave a small nod, stepping slightly ahead to lead the way. "Agreed,Hinata-Hime. It's best we don't keep the Hokage's staff waiting," he said, his tone returning to its usual professionalism.
Hanabi tugged on Hinata's sleeve, her earlier excitement bubbling back. "Do you think we'll see Naruto there, Onee-chan? Maybe he'll still have that funny face paint!"
Hinata chuckled softly, her hand resting lightly on her sister's as they walked. "Maybe, Hanabi. But remember, we're going for something important—your behavior should reflect that."
Hanabi stuck her tongue out playfully. "I'll be on my best behavior! Promise!"
Hinata smiled, shaking her head lightly at her sister's antics. Despite Hanabi's firecracker personality, she appreciated how these moments allowed them to connect as siblings, away from the rigid structure of their clan.
As they approached the Hokage Tower, the grand building loomed above them, bustling with shinobi and staff going about their duties. Ko stepped aside to hold the door open, bowing slightly. "After you,Hinata-Hime, Hanabi-Sama."
"Thank you, Ko," Hinata said softly, leading her sister inside.
Once in the lobby, Hanabi's eyes darted around curiously, taking in the sight of busy shinobi filing reports, delivering scrolls, and engaging in discussions. Her gaze eventually landed on Naruto, still sporting his painted face, as he confidently strolled down a hallway, gesturing animatedly to a flustered staff member.
The clerk's flustered expression shifted to one of thinly veiled disdain as Naruto's animated gestures became more exaggerated. His painted face, combined with his usual boisterous energy, drew the disapproving stares of several shinobi passing by. One muttered something under their breath before quickly moving on, their disapproval lingering in the air.
"There he is!" Hanabi whispered excitedly, tugging on Hinata's hand. Her eyes sparkled with curiosity as she leaned closer. "Onee-chan, why do they look at him like that? Is it because of the paint? He looks silly, but they look… angry."
Hinata felt her heart clench at the question. She glanced down at her sister, whose innocent gaze was still fixed on Naruto. Hanabi was too young to understand the complicated web of emotions and prejudices that permeated the village's view of him. Hinata's eyes softened, and she gave a small, comforting squeeze to Hanabi's hand.
"Maybe they just don't understand him," Hinata said quietly, her voice filled with a mix of sadness and hope. "But it's not something you should worry about, Hanabi. Everyone has their own struggles, and sometimes people don't know how to handle them."
Hanabi tilted her head, her brow furrowing as she tried to process her sister's words. "He doesn't seem like he's struggling. He looks happy to me," she said thoughtfully, watching Naruto wave his arms wildly as he spoke.
Hinata smiled faintly. "Naruto always tries his best to look happy, no matter what."
Hanabi stared at him for a moment longer before shrugging. "Well, I think he's funny. He's way more interesting than the boring people at the compound!"
Hinata couldn't help but laugh softly at Hanabi's candid remark. "Maybe someday, you'll get to know him better."
Ko, who had been standing nearby, listened quietly to the exchange. His gaze flickered toward Naruto for a moment before he addressed the sisters. "Hinata-Hime,Hanabi-sama, we should proceed. The Hokage's staff won't wait forever."
"Of course, Ko," Hinata said, steering Hanabi gently toward the reception desk. She couldn't help but glance back at Naruto one last time, her heart filled with a quiet admiration for his resilience, even in the face of so much unwarranted animosity.
Though she knew it was just admiration, there was something about Naruto's unwavering determination that stirred a deeper connection within her. She had always loved his character, even from afar, much like the version of him portrayed in the tales told within the village. It almost felt surreal to be in the presence of someone so spirited, someone who, despite the world's scorn, stood tall and unyielding.
Naruto's actions and spirit resonated with so many hearts—his determination, his will to fight for his dreams, and his ability to stay true to himself despite his circumstances. It was no wonder he was considered a "legend" by many, even if those around him now failed to see it.
Hinata lowered her gaze slightly as the thought settled in her mind. She couldn't help but feel unworthy at times, as if she had no right to approach him, to speak with him, or to truly understand the weight he carried. But deep down, she wished she had more courage, more chances to reach out and let him know that someone admired and believed in him, even when the world didn't.
As Naruto's animated voice faded down the hallway, Hinata steeled herself with a small resolve. Maybe one day, when the moment was right, she would gather the courage to speak to him, to stand beside him, and to show him that he wasn't alone. For now, she would hold that thought close to her heart as a quiet hope for the future.'I hope we could be good friends one day' she thought absentmindedly.
"Hinata-Hime?" Ko's voice broke through her thoughts, grounding her once more.
Hinata blinked and nodded quickly. "Sorry, let's continue," she said softly, her tone as calm as she could manage while leading Hanabi to the desk.
After confirming their arrival, they were directed to a room for Hinata's shinobi identification photo. Hinata sat carefully in front of the camera, her posture poised and graceful as always, despite her nerves. Ko and Hanabi waited by the side, Ko standing protectively as Hanabi fidgeted with her hands, clearly bored.
The photographer adjusted the camera, glancing at Hinata. "Ready? Just a simple smile will do."
Hinata nodded slightly and gave a delicate, practiced smile. The camera clicked, and in moments, it was over.
"Perfect. You'll receive your ID shortly," the photographer said, stepping back.
Ko moved forward to escort Hinata and Hanabi out of the Hokage Tower. As they stepped outside, Hanabi's stomach grumbled loudly.
"Hinata-Hime, may I suggest we take a break for lunch?" Ko said, a small but knowing smile on his otherwise stoic face.
Hinata nodded, her own appetite stirring. "That's a good idea. Let's go to Yakiniku Q."
Hanabi brightened at the mention of food. "Yes! Let's get lots of meat!"
As they entered Yakiniku Q, the familiar, savory aroma of grilled meat greeted them warmly. Hinata immediately spotted Choji, Ino, and Shikamaru seated at a table near the back, chatting casually.
"Hinata-Hime, Hanabi-Sama, I will remain nearby and give you space to enjoy your time," Ko said, bowing slightly before finding a quiet corner to observe.
"Thank you, Ko," Hinata said with a soft smile.
"Hinata! Over here!" Ino called, waving enthusiastically.
Choji grinned, already holding a piece of grilled meat in his chopsticks. "Glad you could make it, Hinata."
Shikamaru leaned back in his seat, hands behind his head, looking as relaxed as ever. "This is a nice surprise. Didn't expect to see you here."
Hinata guided Hanabi to the table, her younger sister's eyes wide with curiosity as she took in the older kids. "Thank you for letting us join you," Hinata said politely as she and Hanabi sat down.
"No problem," Ino said, smirking playfully at Hanabi. "And who's this little firecracker?"
Hanabi puffed up with pride. "I'm Hanabi Hyuga! Hinata-Onee-chan's sister!"
Choji chuckled. "She's got a lot of energy, huh,?"
Ino laughed lightly, leaning her chin on her palm as she studied the sisters. "Yeah, if it wasn't for the fact that you look similar, I wouldn't have even known you were siblings. Hinata's so soft-spoken, and Hanabi here is like a little firecracker!"
Hinata chuckled softly, her cheeks pinking slightly. "We're different, but we balance each other well," she said, glancing at Hanabi, who was intently watching a platter of sizzling meat being carried past by a waiter.
Ino leaned forward with a sly grin. "So, Hinata, how've you been? You've been quieter than usual in class. Anything exciting happening lately?"
Hinata tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, her gaze dropping slightly. "Oh, not really… I've just been busy with training and assignments."
Ino hummed thoughtfully. "You've got to find time to relax, you know? Balance is important, especially with how intense ninja life can get."
Hanabi suddenly tugged on Hinata's sleeve, whispering loudly, "Onee-chan, when do we get to eat? Everything smells so good!"
Ino grinned. "She's got her priorities straight. Don't worry, Hanabi, we're about to order."
Shikamaru, who had been lazily watching the exchange, finally spoke up. "Kiba said he'd be here soon. Might as well wait a bit before ordering."
Hanabi tilted her head. "Kiba? Is he a friend of yours?"
Shikamaru nodded, yawning. "Yeah. You'll recognize him. He's the loud one with the dog."
Hanabi's eyes widened with curiosity. "A dog? Can we play with it?"
"Akamaru's friendly," Hinata reassured her sister with a small smile. "But let's make sure to eat first."
A waiter approached their table, notebook in hand. "Ready to order?"
Ino took charge, flipping her hair over her shoulder. "Let's start with a mix of everything—especially the premium cuts. We'll add more if we need to."
Choji nodded enthusiastically, his eyes lighting up at the mention of food. "Good call!"
Hanabi leaned toward Hinata, whispering, "I can't wait to try everything!"
Hinata smiled at her sister's enthusiasm, feeling a rare sense of contentment. She glanced at Ino, who was already chatting with the waiter, and Shikamaru, who looked as though he'd rather be napping. Despite their differences, there was a comfort in being surrounded by friends. Moments like these made her grateful for the bonds she was beginning to build outside the Hyuga compound.
As the waiter left to prepare their order, Hinata's mind drifted back to Ino's words. You've got to find time to relax... Balance is important.
Hinata glanced at Hanabi, who was now eagerly chatting with Choji about all the different foods she wanted to try. A soft smile crept onto her face. In the original timeline, Hanabi hadn't been this vocal, this vibrant. Hinata knew her own efforts to protect Hanabi from the weight of their clan's expectations had made a difference. By being there for her, Hinata had allowed her younger sister to experience more of her childhood, free from the burdens she herself had carried for so long.
The thought filled her heart with warmth. Maybe it wasn't just her training or duties that defined her worth—perhaps it was these little things, these connections and acts of love, that truly mattered.
Her musings were interrupted by the sound of hurried footsteps approaching their table. Kiba came into view, his face flushed and hair slightly disheveled as if he'd sprinted the whole way.
"Hinata?!" he exclaimed, his voice a mix of surprise and nervous energy. He froze for a moment, his gaze darting awkwardly between her and the others.
Hinata blinked in surprise. "Oh, Kiba-kun. It's nice to see you," she said softly, offering him a gentle smile.
Kiba scratched the back of his head, his cheeks tinting pink. "Y-Yeah! I didn't know you'd be here! I mean, not that it's a bad thing or anything…" He trailed off, clearly flustered, before quickly changing the subject. "Akamaru's outside. I, uh, didn't want him bothering anyone."
Shikamaru smirked lazily. "You look like you ran all the way here."
"Of course, I did!" Kiba huffed, folding his arms defensively. "I didn't want to be late!" His eyes flicked back to Hinata briefly before he cleared his throat and sat down.
Hanabi leaned closer to Hinata and whispered loudly, "Why is he acting so weird, Onee-chan?"
Hinata's cheeks flushed slightly as she shook her head, trying to stifle a small laugh. "I'm not sure, Hanabi."
Ino, ever the observant one, leaned on her elbow and grinned. "Well, this just got more interesting."
Kiba groaned, burying his face in his hands. "Why is everyone looking at me?!"
Choji, noticing Kiba's flustered state, chuckled. "Hey, Kiba, you know the store allows pets, right? Akamaru could join us if you want," he said, gesturing to the door. "They're cool with ninja animals here."
Kiba blinked, his face turning even redder. "R-Right! I'll grab him!" He stood up quickly, obviously trying to redeem himself after his earlier flustered behavior, and hurried out of the restaurant.
As the minutes ticked by, the group resumed chatting casually, but it wasn't long before Kiba returned, his dog Akamaru bounding excitedly behind him. The moment Akamaru stepped into the restaurant, he immediately trotted over to Hinata and, with no hesitation, jumped right into her lap. Hinata blinked in surprise as Akamaru burrowed his head into her chest, clearly seeking comfort and affection.
Kiba's eyes widened in annoyance. "Akamaru! Get down!" he called out, but Akamaru just wagged his tail, seemingly quite pleased with his new position.
Hinata, however, gently placed a hand on the dog's back, her expression soft. "It's alright, Kiba. He's just being friendly," she said, offering him a small, understanding smile.
Hanabi watched with interest, her gaze flicking back and forth between Hinata and the playful dog. "He's cute," Hanabi remarked, reaching out to gently pet Akamaru's fur. The dog responded by happily nuzzling her hand, making her giggle.
Kiba sighed, scratching the back of his head in frustration but clearly giving up on trying to move Akamaru. "Tch, well, I guess he's just being his usual self."
The waiter arrived just then, interrupting the moment, and approached Kiba. "What can I get for you, sir?"
Kiba glanced up, still mildly irritated but trying to focus. "Uh... just the usual, I guess. A beef bowl, extra spicy," he muttered, shaking his head as Akamaru continued to make himself comfortable in Hinata's lap.
As the waiter moved away to take care of the orders, the group resumed their conversation.
"So, we all passed the exam, huh?" Choji said with a grin. "Guess that means we're one step closer to becoming real shinobi."
Ino nodded, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "It's kind of surreal, isn't it? I mean, we've been training for this moment for so long, and now it's finally here."
Shikamaru sighed, his lazy demeanor unchanged. "Yeah, but now comes the real work. Can't say I'm looking forward to all the missions and responsibilities. But hey, at least we get to be on teams with some cool people."
Kiba nodded, his arms crossed as he leaned back in his chair. "I just hope I'm not stuck with some lazy team. I want to work with people who'll actually get stuff done."
Hinata, still gently petting Akamaru, smiled softly. "We'll all be in different teams, right? I wonder who will be with whom."
Hanabi, her eyes still focused on Akamaru, chimed in with curiosity. "Do you think Onee-chan will be on the same team as any of us?" she asked innocently.
Hinata chuckled softly at Hanabi's question, her smile warm as she gently corrected her. "You're not a ninja yet, Hanabi. You should say 'you' instead of 'us,'" she teased affectionately, hoping to make the correction in a gentle way.
Hanabi's face flushed slightly, but she nodded quickly. "Sorry, Onee-chan," she said, a small pout forming as she quickly corrected herself.
Hinata gave her a reassuring smile before continuing. "As for teams... I'm not sure where I'll end up either. It'll probably depend on who the Hokage and the sensei think we'll work best with." She paused, thoughtfully glancing at Ino, Choji, and Shikamaru. "But tradition might play a part. Ino, Choji, and Shikamaru have been together for a long time. They might end up on the same team, since they've always been friends."
Ino, who had been listening to the conversation with a casual air, suddenly growled in frustration, rolling her eyes. "Ugh, don't remind me," she said, crossing her arms over her chest. "I really don't want to be with them! I see them every day, I can't imagine spending even more time with them!"
Choji, ever the easygoing one, raised an eyebrow and chuckled. "Come on, Ino, don't act like you don't enjoy hanging out with us. We're a good team."
Shikamaru, in his usual laid-back style, sighed. "You don't have to act like it's the worst thing, Ino. We've got it good—no need to complicate things." he said drawing his finger on the table in boredom