Hinata steadied her breathing, her heart pounding in her chest. The eerie silence was broken only by her own breaths, her fingers tightening around her staff. She knew she was alone—no backup, no help in sight. It was up to her. She cast another glance around with her Tenseigan, scanning the shadows. No one would come to save her.

Then, a shadow lunged forward. The first ANBU closed in fast, his two short swords flashing under the dim light. Hinata reacted in a heartbeat, parrying each swing with her chakra staff, sparks flying as their weapons clashed. She caught a flicker of movement in her periphery, a kunai spinning toward her. Her Tenseigan slowed down the world for a split second, and she twisted her torso, narrowly evading the kunai as it sliced past her face. In the same motion, she snatched it from the air, channeling lightning chakra into the metal.

Without hesitation, she launched it back at her first attacker, the kunai crackling as it hit home in his chest. His eyes widened in shock before he crumpled to the ground.

She barely had a second to breathe, catching the glint of another blade—a katana—coming down toward her. She shifted, her staff sweeping to meet the blade and slamming it away, forcing the female ANBU wielder back with a well-placed hit to the side. She didn't have the luxury of savoring her advantage, though. The shadows around her moved as one, closing in from every direction.

Hinata's staff spun in her grip, a blur of blue chakra deflecting attacks as she defended herself against multiple strikes. Her Tenseigan showed her each move in clear detail, but they were too many, converging on her like a pack of wolves.

She pivoted, deconstructing her staff as she tucked into a backward roll, feeling the rush of air as another ANBU wielding a spear stabbed at the ground where she'd just been. Still on her back, she performed a swift kip-up, her body springing upright as she sensed another attack from behind. She twisted, grabbing her attacker's arm mid-strike, his dagger inches from her face. With a flick of her wrist, she disarmed him, pressing her fingers against his chest in rapid succession, cutting off his chakra points. He staggered back, his chakra flow frozen.

No sooner had she dealt with him than she felt the air shift—a spear aimed at her back. She turned just in time, sidestepping the strike and opening her palm, forming another chakra staff in a flash. She leaped backward, putting distance between herself and her attackers, her staff whirling in a wide arc. She infused it with more chakra, elongating its reach, and swung it with deadly precision, forcing the ANBU to leap back, out of her range.

One of them cursed under his breath, "Tch, she's a tougher one than we thought."

Hinata exhaled heavily, her eyes blazing as she glared at them. The ANBU regrouped, their eyes locked on her with unwavering intent. They weren't just here to take her down—they were here to claim her Tenseigan. She saw their determination, saw it reflected in the way they closed in with renewed purpose.

Realizing she needed to disrupt their formation, Hinata shifted tactics. Her staff morphed in her hands, transforming into a kusarigama, a deadly chain weapon. She gripped the chain tightly, targeting the closest ANBU and flinging the blade with precision. He dodged, but Hinata pulled it back, using the spinning blade to deflect a barrage of shuriken raining toward her. With a graceful leap, she landed on the nearby wall, gaining the high ground. From her vantage, she swung the weapon in wide, erratic arcs, the blade and mace at each end spinning in deadly harmony.

Several of the ANBU hesitated, trying to find a way past the unpredictable weapon. But they were well-trained and soon adapted, scattering and launching coordinated attacks to keep her on her toes. Despite her agility, Hinata felt fatigue creeping in, her movements a touch slower as the relentless fight wore on. She pushed through and leapt to the ground, her breath coming faster, but the exhaustion began to show. Her arms ached, each swing of her weapon requiring more effort than the last.

One of the ANBU saw his opening. With lightning speed, he darted forward and slashed his sword across her side. Hinata gasped, stumbling back as pain seared through her, blood staining her sweater. She winced, her hand moving to cover the wound, but she didn't let her guard down. Another ANBU quickly formed seals in front of her.

[Quicksand Sealing Jutsu]

The ground under her feet shifted, softening and sucking her in. Hinata struggled, her legs sinking rapidly into the quicksand up to her knees. Panic clawed at her chest as she tried to pull herself free, her chakra flaring in an attempt to stabilize the ground beneath her.

"Now!" the ANBU leader shouted. "Bring her down!"

A female ANBU stepped forward, her eyes focused. She moved with purpose, her fiery red hair tied back in a braid that whipped around as she summoned adamantine chains from her back. The chains shot forward, coiling around Hinata's arms, binding her wrists and rendering her immobile.

Hinata gritted her teeth, struggling against the unyielding grip of the chains. Her chakra flared, but the chains tightened with each attempt to break free, biting into her skin and draining her strength. The leader of the ANBU stepped closer, eyes narrowed as he examined her.

"Good work," he said, nodding approvingly at the red-haired kunoichi. "The Tenseigan is ours."

One of the ANBU took a closer look, noticing the dimmed look of her left eye. "Odd… she's missing one of her dojutsu."

The leader raised an eyebrow in surprise, glancing at her face. "Is that so? No matter, we don't have time to ponder it now. Move out. We need to be gone before Konoha gets word of this."

They moved toward her, their hands ready to lift her and transport her away. Hinata's heart thundered in her chest, panic rising as she realized how close she was to being taken. She struggled, her mind racing. She could scream, but an ANBU quickly gagged her, silencing any sound she might make. Her breath came in rapid, shallow bursts as her mind reached out in desperation, her thoughts flying to the people who mattered most.

Please, she thought, feeling the weight of fear settle in her chest. Naruto, Sasuke, Sakura… Kurenai-sensei… someone, please come for me. Help me.

Her mind drifted to the Flying Raijin seal that Naruto had placed on her, the faint mark on her chest her last hope. She focused on it, concentrating every ounce of her energy on the link, as if her thoughts alone could call him to her. Naruto, please… come back to me.

But the ANBU moved quickly, binding her further with self-wrapping chains that tightened around her, wrapping around her torso and shoulders, locking her in place. They hefted her up, carrying her like a prize as they prepared to disappear into the shadows of the night.

The last thing Hinata saw before the world began to dim was the vague outline of the village rooftops, silent and serene, as her captors moved to take her away.

As the Kiri ANBU squad leapt from rooftop to rooftop, the sky was an ominous shade of deep gray, casting long shadows over the silent Konoha streets below. Hinata lay bound and gagged, barely able to move, her senses on high alert. Each rooftop jump made her body jolt, the ropes around her cutting into her skin, but she kept her breathing steady, refusing to show any weakness.

Suddenly, a startled gasp escaped the ANBU carrying her. His eyes widened as he froze, his grip slipping. Before he could regain his hold, a figure seemed to materialize from thin air in front of him, and in that instant, Hinata found herself tumbling through the air. Her bound body fell, but just as she was bracing for impact, she was cushioned, landing safely on the ground with no explanation.

Back on the rooftop, panic broke out among the ANBU squad. The figure—a blur of orange, moving so fast it was nearly invisible—zipped around their formation, leaving a trail of death in its wake. One by one, the elite Kiri ANBU dropped, lifeless and motionless, faster than any of them could process. The leader, his senses sharp and honed from years of combat, scanned the rooftops frantically, only catching glimpses of orange light and flashes of steel as his men fell.

"W-What is this…?" he muttered, his voice shaking with disbelief. The name came to his lips, almost like a whisper from the past. "Namikaze… Minato?"

But that was impossible. The Fourth Hokage had been dead for nearly two decades. His grip tightened on his blade as he blinked away the disbelief. With grim determination, he flickered to a nearby rooftop, two surviving ANBU with him, as they searched for any sight of their target. He cursed as he realized the Tenseigan wielder was missing.

"Sir, what do we do?" The female Uzumaki ANBU, her red hair matted with sweat, asked, her voice betraying a hint of fear.

"We retreat," the leader responded firmly. "We've lost too many—"

He didn't finish. Another presence—a new figure—appeared directly behind the Uzumaki ANBU. She barely had a chance to gasp before a powerful blast of chakra slammed into her back. She flew forward, crashing into the rooftop below with such force that it splintered beneath her.

[Wind Style: Wind Scythe Jutsu]

The leader sent forth his ninjutsu, swinging his hands in a wide arc, unleashing deadly, slicing winds toward the attacker. But it was too late. Before the jutsu could even connect, the assailant disappeared, his form vanishing like a phantom.

Kunai rained down around the last two ANBU, surrounding them in a circle of marked steel. They exchanged a look, hearts pounding, as dread seeped into their bones. In an instant, the figure reappeared next to one of the kunai, barely giving them time to react as he tossed another toward the nearest ANBU.

The leader sent a shuriken toward the figure, but the orange-clad attacker vanished again, reappearing beside the other ANBU member, a dark blade gleaming in his hand. He struck swiftly, the blade impaling the Kiri shinobi through the chest. Blood spurted, and the ANBU crumpled to the ground, dead before he even touched it.

The leader leapt away in desperation, landing on a distant wall. His heart thundered in his chest as he scanned his surroundings, gripping his blade tightly. A bead of sweat rolled down his temple as he wondered what kind of devil he was facing.

Then he felt it. A chilling presence behind him, close enough that he could feel the faint breath of his assailant. A voice spoke, low and resolute.

"It's over."

His blood ran cold. The realization struck him like lightning. In a last, desperate effort, he raised his blade, preparing to strike, but it was useless. A vice-like grip closed around his neck, and he was lifted, powerless, before being hurled to the ground with bone-crushing force.

Pain radiated through his body, but before he could even register it, he saw a sphere of spiraling chakra above him. The figure descended upon him, pressing a Rasengan into his chest, the force so brutal that blood erupted from his mouth. His vision blurred as he caught a final glimpse of his attacker, only seeing a silhouette with wild, spiky blonde hair before everything went black.

In the narrow alleyway below, Hinata's breathing was shallow, her body still trembling. The night air was cool against her skin, but her heart raced, her mind reeling. What just happened? She blinked, her Tenseigan eyes widening as she tried to make sense of the chaos she'd just escaped.

Then, without warning, a familiar kunai—marked with a distinct seal—embedded itself into the ground mere inches from her.

Her heart stopped.

A flash of orange, and there he was—Naruto, standing before her. The hardened expression he wore softened instantly upon seeing her state. He knelt beside her, his gaze intense, filled with worry.

"Hinata…" His voice was a whisper, rough with emotion. Without hesitation, he reached out, his fingers gently brushing her cheek as he checked her over. Then, his hands moved to the bindings, his fingers fumbling with the intricate knots. He muttered to himself, frustration lacing his tone as he struggled to break the seals on the chain.

"Hold on… just a second." He performed a swift set of hand seals, murmuring, "Release!" With a faint glow, the chain unraveled, clinking softly to the ground.

Finally free, Hinata felt the rush of relief overwhelm her, and without thinking, she threw her arms around him, burying her face into his chest. Her body trembled against him, the adrenaline fading, replaced by an overpowering wave of gratitude and raw emotion. She clung to him, as if he were the only thing anchoring her to reality.

Naruto wrapped his arms around her, holding her close, his hand gently tracing soothing circles along her back. "It's okay, Hinata. You're safe now. I'm here. Everything's okay."

Her voice broke as she spoke, almost inaudible, "I… I thought… they were going to…" She couldn't finish the sentence, her words lost in a soft sob.

"Hey…" Naruto whispered, pulling back just enough to look into her eyes. He brushed a few strands of hair away from her face, his thumb brushing over her cheek tenderly. "How did you find me?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Naruto's gaze softened even further, his blue eyes filled with a strange mix of wonder and devotion. "I heard you. All the way from Tea Country, I… I heard you call out to me. I don't know how, but… I just knew you were in trouble." He looked deep into her eyes, and for a moment, it was as if they were the only two people in the world. "I couldn't ignore it, not when it was you."

Hinata's eyes widened, her heart swelling as a warm tear slipped down her cheek. She reached up, her fingers brushing over his face as she whispered, "Thank you… thank you for coming."

He gave her a soft, reassuring smile, pulling her close once more. They stayed like that, wrapped in each other's arms, both of them savoring the quiet safety of the moment, the nightmare they had just escaped already beginning to fade. Their breaths synchronized, their hearts beating as one as the world around them melted away.

As they remained wrapped in each other's arms, the sounds of approaching footsteps echoed from nearby. Konoha shinobi arrived, their eyes sweeping over the area, assessing the remnants of the battle and the bodies of the fallen enemy. But Hinata and Naruto paid them no mind, too wrapped up in each other, savoring the relief of their reunion amid the chaos.

The room fell silent as Kabuto Yakushi, his white hair glinting in the light, adjusted his glasses and repeated a single word, his voice calm but loaded with significance: "Resonance."

Everyone assembled—Tsunade, Shizune, Kurenai, Hinata, Naruto, Obito, and Might Guy—turned their attention to him, curiosity and tension mingling in their expressions. Kabuto's gaze lingered on Hinata as he continued, each word weighted with meaning. "The Resonance spell. It's something ancient… and forbidden. But from what Naruto has described, it's the only explanation."

Kabuto glanced at Naruto, his wiry smile unsettling. "Your story, Naruto, about how you could feel her presence, hear her, even in Tea Country… it points to her having used Resonance. Without any training, no less."

Naruto furrowed his brow, scratching his head, then tried to address Kabuto directly, only to hesitate. "Uh… sorry, what was your name again?"

Tsunade's exasperated sigh was audible, but she answered with patience, "Kabuto Yakushi."

"Right. Kabuto," Naruto said, a faint grin breaking the tension. "What exactly is Resonance?"

Kabuto's smile widened, eyes gleaming with knowledge. "Resonance is a rare spell that allows its caster to bridge the gap between minds, regardless of distance. It's more than telepathy, even more than what the Yamanaka clan can accomplish. Under certain conditions, it can even reach beyond the boundaries of life and death."

The weight of this statement hung heavily in the room, drawing the intrigued glances of Obito and Tsunade, both familiar with the forbidden paths of chakra and jutsu. Shizune spoke up, her voice soft with trepidation. "I remember… when Kaguya spoke to all of us, the entire village heard her voice simultaneously. There was no way to block her out; it was… inescapable."

Tsunade nodded, brow furrowed, as if recalling the eerie sensation of Kaguya's voice invading her mind. "I felt it too. It was like she was in our heads."

Hinata raised her voice, speaking for the first time. "But I don't understand… I don't know anything about the dark arts. How could I possibly have used this Resonance?"

Kabuto tilted his head, his expression thoughtful as he observed her. "Given your connection to Kaguya's lineage, your direct descent… maybe there's an innate ability you've yet to realize. An untrained access to the arts she wielded."

Kurenai shook her head, skepticism plain in her eyes. "That's a stretch, Kabuto. The Hyuuga have no history of the dark arts. Hinata's bloodline is the Byakugan, not anything associated with Kaguya's forbidden techniques."

Naruto nodded, supporting Kurenai's stance. "Yeah, I mean, if Hinata could do all that… she'd know, right?"

Hinata bit her lip, struggling to piece together the puzzle. Memories of Kaguya's haunting presence drifted through her mind, the dormant awareness that seemed to lie within her. She took a deep breath, the memory suddenly sharpening. "There was… something. Kaguya told me her soul was bound to the Tenseigan on a spiritual level."

Naruto's eyes brightened, catching onto her line of thought. "Wait, maybe it's like what happened with me, Sasuke, and Sakura when we received the Sun and Moon Seals. The Sage's knowledge… it's like it was imprinted on us through those seals. Maybe… if Kaguya's soul was bound to the Tenseigan, and you're the one with the Tenseigan now… maybe her knowledge is somehow 'leaking' into you."

Kabuto nodded approvingly, his voice sharp with realization. "Precisely. If her soul was bound to the Tenseigan, you could be tapping into her residual knowledge subconsciously, whether you intend to or not. It's similar to the way the Nine-tails' chakra once bled into you, Naruto."

Hinata glanced around, uncertain and uneasy. "But… if that's true, what does it mean for me?"

Tsunade stepped forward, her voice steely and resolute. "If there's even a chance of this connection existing, Hinata, then it's your duty to explore it. That's why I reached out to Kabuto—he can guide you in understanding these abilities and uncovering the potential of your Tenseigan."

Obito, focused intently on Hinata, chimed in with a grave nod. "If Kabuto's right, this power may be exactly what we need going forward."

Naruto looked at him, his curiosity piqued. "What do you mean, 'going forward'?"

Tsunade's expression hardened. She exhaled, her hands tightening into fists. "Naruto… Kiri's attempt to capture a Konoha shinobi on our soil could very well be considered an act of war."

Hinata's eyes widened, her unease growing as she processed Tsunade's words. Kurenai's face darkened with anger. "The audacity to stage an abduction inside the village, right before their own dignitaries arrive—it's a clear insult."

Naruto frowned, glancing between Tsunade and Kurenai. "I get that it's serious, but… shouldn't we at least try diplomacy first?"

Tsunade shook her head, the resolve in her gaze unwavering. "Diplomacy has its limits, Naruto. Since Pain's attack, and Kaguya's resurgence, the other villages have been watching us. They're waiting for a moment of weakness, and if we allow this to go unpunished, it could invite further threats."

Hinata's discomfort deepened, her voice tinged with worry. "But I don't want to be the reason for more conflict. My Tenseigan—my presence—it shouldn't be the catalyst for war."

Obito crossed his arms, his expression unreadable as he turned to her. "Regardless of what you want, Hinata, you need to master the Tenseigan as soon as possible. If it comes to conflict, we may have no choice but to call on you for answers."

Guy nodded, his voice low and thoughtful. "If even a fraction of Kaguya's abilities are within reach, they could tip the scales in our favor."

Hinata's frustration boiled over, her voice rising with an intensity that startled even herself. "Is that all I am now? A weapon for Konoha to use if things get bad?"

Tsunade's gaze softened for a moment, but her tone remained firm. "You're a shinobi, Hinata. You know the burden that comes with that title. Protecting the village is part of our duty, and sometimes… sacrifices have to be made."

Hinata bit her lip, her frustration giving way to a reluctant understanding. Tsunade's reasoning struck a chord within her, and though she didn't like it, she could see the reality they faced.

Tsunade addressed her directly, her voice firm. "Hinata, as of today, I'm placing you under Kabuto's tutelage. If our theory is correct, and your connection with Kaguya's knowledge is genuine, then Kabuto will help you bring it to the surface."

Turning to Naruto, Tsunade's expression softened slightly. "Naruto… thank you for saving her. She's safe because of you."

Naruto smiled, nodding. "It's my duty, Hokage-sama. Both to Konoha… and to Hinata."

Tsunade's gaze swept over the group as she continued. "Given what happened, we can no longer afford to let Hinata roam without protection. That's why I'm assigning her to the direct protection of Team 7, effective immediately."

Hinata's eyes widened in surprise, sharing a startled glance with Naruto. Tsunade's voice softened slightly. "You're close with her, Naruto, and that bond may make it easier to keep her safe."

She turned to the others. "I expect you all to train her in whatever way you can. She needs this as much as we do."

With a sigh, Tsunade faced the group once more, her voice laced with the weight of her responsibility. "We need to start mobilizing, prepare for a possible confrontation. The dignitaries from the other villages will arrive soon, and how that meeting unfolds will determine our course of action. I can only hope it won't come to open conflict."

Naruto's voice, soft yet resolute, broke the silence. "There has to be another way. We don't need a war to prove Konoha's strength."

Kurenai shook her head, her expression pained but determined. "Even if we don't want it, Naruto… we have to be prepared."

Tsunade nodded solemnly, her gaze hardening as she looked at the group. "That's the reality, Naruto. And the best way to ensure peace… is to prepare for war."

Her words hung heavily in the room, and a silent understanding passed among them. Each knew the stakes, and the gravity of what lay ahead.

The Land of Iron's council chamber was a stark, imposing room, built for function over comfort. Frosty air lingered within its stone walls, and the heavy silence between the Kage was punctuated only by the occasional crackling of the hearth. Tsunade, seated as Hokage, kept her gaze steady on Mei Terumi, the Mizukage, who sat across the table with an air of unapologetic confidence. Shizune and Kakashi stood quietly behind Tsunade, alert and watchful.

"It was a fragrant violation of Konoha's sovereignty," Tsunade said, her voice hard. "Sending your ANBU into my village to abduct Hinata Hyuuga—there's no justification for that."

Mei met her gaze without a hint of remorse, her posture relaxed. "A matter of security for Kirigakure," she replied coolly. "The Tenseigan is a weapon that once put the entire world under the Infinite Tsukuyomi. How do you expect the other nations to react when Konoha keeps such a power hidden?"

"It's not your concern what we do within our borders," Tsunade shot back. "The Tenseigan belongs to a Konoha shinobi. By extension, it belongs to Konoha."

Ohnoki, the wizened Tsuchikage, folded his arms and spoke with a skeptical tone. "So you say, Hokage. But if Konoha keeps something so volatile concealed from the rest of us, how can we trust that it won't be turned against us in the future?"

Tsunade's frown deepened, and she leaned forward, her voice sharp. "We took the brunt of the damage from the Infinite Tsukuyomi. Konoha was a victim just like every other nation. Or have you all conveniently forgotten that?"

Ay, the Raikage, let out a low, rumbling grunt. "That's hardly the point. Any village that had a tailed beast knows the risks—sometimes, even the best shinobi lose control. For all we know, this Hinata Hyuuga could just as easily lose control of her Tenseigan."

Mei nodded in agreement, her eyes cold. "We've all seen the devastation these powers can cause, Tsunade. Kiri has no reason to trust Konoha's assurances when it comes to something this dangerous."

A tense silence followed as the weight of their accusations settled over the room. Tsunade clenched her fist, but her voice remained steady. "My stance remains the same. The Tenseigan is Konoha's concern. Any further attempts to claim it will be seen as an act of war."

Rasa, the Kazekage, spoke up now, his voice measured but firm. "Hokage, you're being unreasonable. If Konoha keeps this power exclusively, the balance between our villages will only grow more fragile. If control over the Tenseigan slips again, as it did under Kaguya, then we'd all face its consequences. Your hostility here—your refusal to cooperate—may come back to bite you when Konoha finds itself in need."

Tsunade hesitated, her mind racing. Rasa had a point, and she knew it, but it was also painfully clear what each of these Kage wanted. They wanted the Tenseigan for themselves, to tip the scales of power in their own villages' favor. A trace of doubt flickered in her eyes, and she took a slow, calming breath before replying.

"Konoha does not plan to isolate itself from the alliance," she said at last. "But understand this: the Tenseigan itself is not up for negotiation. It will not be handed over, nor will we accept any 'assistance' in handling it." Her gaze swept across the room, challenging each Kage in turn. "Any future attempts to seize it will be regarded as a declaration of war."

Mei's eyes narrowed. "War?" she echoed, her voice dangerously soft. "You think you can dictate how the other nations protect their interests?"

Tsunade met Mei's gaze head-on. "I know I can't dictate anything to your villages. But as Hokage, I can tell you that the Tenseigan's status within Konoha is not up for discussion. If you want a battle over it, that's what you'll get."

The silence that followed was taut, every Kage in the room assessing Tsunade, weighing her words. Shizune's hands fidgeted subtly, though she kept her face calm, while Kakashi's eyes remained sharp, taking in each leader's reaction. It was Ay who finally broke the silence, his voice grave.

"Is it worth all this, Tsunade?" he said. "Is a single power really worth risking a conflict that could plunge our villages into chaos again?"

"Only if you force our hand," Tsunade replied coldly. "But we won't hesitate to defend what's ours."

Ohnoki sighed, his old shoulders slumping slightly as he looked from Tsunade to Mei, his gaze weary. "Hokage… you realize this stance of yours could jeopardize our peace?"

Tsunade nodded solemnly. "Yes, I realize that. But peace built on intimidation and mistrust is bound to crumble. If this summit is to mean anything, if any kind of alliance is to endure, then we must respect each other's borders and sovereignty."

Rasa crossed his arms, his gaze steely. "Just remember that should this power ever slip from your control, you will find yourselves facing this council once again—but not in a summit."

Tsunade's jaw clenched, but she offered no retort. The summit was coming to a close, and as she looked at each Kage, she saw that the distance between them, once bridged by a fragile peace, had widened. She stood, prompting the others to do the same.

"If there's nothing else, I believe we're done here," Tsunade said, her voice steady but resigned.

The other Kage exchanged wary looks. Mei's expression was unreadable as she inclined her head, her eyes glinting with the suggestion of an ongoing conflict.

"Until next time, Hokage," she said coolly.

Without another word, the Kage and their retinues exited the chamber, each side carrying with them the weight of tension, the unspoken warnings, and the simmering threat of conflict. Tsunade watched them go, her heart heavy as she considered the tenuous peace that hung in the balance.

Shizune stepped forward, her voice low. "Tsunade-sama… do you think they'll back off?"

Tsunade's eyes remained fixed on the door, her expression grim. "No," she replied quietly. "If anything, they'll only get bolder."

Kakashi glanced at her, his gaze thoughtful. "Then… what now, Lady Tsunade?"

Tsunade's face hardened. "We prepare. And we watch our backs."

Two weeks later...

Hinata stood in the heart of a dimly lit training chamber, her breathing steady but her heart racing. The air was thick with an unspoken energy, almost oppressive, yet she was determined to push through it. Across from her, Kabuto adjusted his glasses, watching her every move with a calculated intensity that was, at once, reassuring and daunting.

"Good," he remarked, breaking the silence. "You've mastered the basics of the magic reinforcement spell. Let's try channeling it into something more challenging."

Hinata gave a nod, flexing her fingers as a faint glow began to emanate from her hands. Her eyes closed as she focused, feeling the spell weave through her system, augmenting her strength, speed, and senses in a way that normal chakra techniques couldn't replicate. A sense of warmth and power pulsed in her muscles, enhancing her reflexes. She could feel her limbs grow lighter, her vision sharper, but as the spell demanded more focus, she felt a pull in her reserves—a warning that she hadn't yet mastered control.

Kabuto observed her intently, noting the minor strain on her face as she fought to maintain stability in the spell. He raised a hand. "Hold," he said, his voice steady, guiding her through the complex channels. "Don't rush it. Let the energy find its flow."

Hinata took a calming breath, and as she exhaled, the glow around her hands softened and stabilized. The reinforcement settled, becoming less of an effort and more of an extension of herself. She allowed herself a small, quiet smile. This was progress. She could feel it, even if the journey was still long.

"Excellent," Kabuto said, his tone almost impressed. "Most would still be struggling with this technique after two weeks. It may seem small, but this foundation will prove invaluable. Your capacity to enhance physical attributes is becoming fluid."

Hinata glanced at him, gratitude softening her expression. "Thank you, Kabuto-san. I'm… grateful for the guidance."

"Remember, Hinata," he continued, his gaze unwavering, "this isn't simply about power. What you're learning—reinforcement, transfiguration, even the basics of manipulation—is more than just a tool. It's about altering reality, transforming limitations." He gave her a measured look. "It's the key to unlocking your potential as Konoha's Tenseigan wielder."

Hinata shifted her gaze, absorbing his words. She had managed, with much effort, to learn transfiguration spells—barely—but she knew her skills in that area were still tenuous. Shaping chakra into other forms was delicate work, far more demanding than standard techniques. She had only managed basic transformations, like turning her chakra into rough semblances of fire and water, but even then, she'd struggled with stability and control.

"I still have a lot to learn," she murmured, glancing down. "Especially if I want to go beyond… this."

"Don't discount your progress," Kabuto reassured her, though his tone carried a weight of expectation. "There is one art that eludes even me—time manipulation. To restore your left eye, you'd need Kaguya's level of mastery, something few could ever attain. But I'll guide you as far as my knowledge permits."

Hinata's fingers brushed against the bandage over her left eye, her heart tightening. The thought of restoring it—of seeing the world as she once did—filled her with a cautious hope. But she understood that it was a long, uncertain path. She felt a pang of frustration, the weight of knowing how far she had yet to go.

Kabuto noticed her hesitation. "You're already doing well," he said, his tone softer, as if sensing the inner turmoil she tried so hard to suppress. "Hard work and consistency will eventually yield results. Just remember, your Tenseigan is as powerful as it is feared. And because of that, a lot is at stake."

Hinata looked at him, a glimmer of gratitude mingling with the determination in her gaze. "I understand, Kabuto-san." Her voice was steady, but beneath it lay a quiet resolve. She knew that her progress, her mastery over these arts, could tip the balance in this tense time.

Over the past two weeks, she'd felt the pressure mounting. The air in Konoha was thick with tension, and it didn't take her Tenseigan to see the anxious glances her fellow shinobi cast her way. She was the reason for the fear, and she was also Konoha's trump card. She knew it, felt it weighing on her shoulders. And yet, the responsibility sat uneasily within her. The thought that so many lives hinged on her power and her progress stirred an unease she couldn't shake.

She didn't want this.

Hinata's mind drifted, thoughts spiraling back to the simpler times in her youth, times when she was still just Hinata Hyuuga, the timid girl who dreamed of becoming strong. She hadn't wanted to be a weapon, an instrument of fear and control. But that was who she had become, or perhaps what she was expected to be.

Kabuto's gaze softened as he looked at her, as though understanding her thoughts without her needing to voice them. "You've taken on a role that very few can bear, Hinata. But you're not alone in this. Remember that."

Hinata met his eyes and gave a small, firm nod. She couldn't afford to falter. She knew that each step forward, each technique she mastered, would bring her closer to controlling the Tenseigan fully—and with it, she hoped, the chance to dictate her own path. But for now, all she could do was endure. She would learn, she would improve, and, somehow, she would find a way to balance the power she held with the life she still wanted.

Kabuto glanced at her hands, still faintly glowing with the reinforcement spell. "Let's continue," he said, his voice a low murmur, almost a challenge. "You're strong, Hinata. Perhaps stronger than you realize. And there's much more to come."

Hinata took a deep breath, focusing her mind on the spell as the faint glow intensified. She was ready. She had to be.

The sun was setting over Konoha, casting warm hues across the village marketplace. Hinata walked slowly, her gaze drifting from stall to stall, examining the produce that was on display. Sasuke and Sakura flanked her as they navigated through the bustling market. Though they were there as her escorts, Sakura had taken the opportunity to buy a few items for herself.

"Hinata, you need to try the carrots at this stall," Sakura said brightly, directing their small group to a stall near the end of the row. "They're the best in town, I promise. I get them for my family all the time."

Hinata nodded, grateful for the company. "Thank you, Sakura. I appreciate the recommendation."

"Of course! And maybe some lettuce too?" Sakura added with a grin, casting a glance at the stall keeper, a middle-aged man who was arranging his vegetables. She approached him with a wave. "Good evening! I'll take a bag of carrots, please, and a head of lettuce for my friend here."

The man's face lit up as he recognized Sakura. "Sakura! Always a pleasure." His cheerful expression faded slightly as his eyes shifted past her, landing on Hinata. His body stiffened, and he glanced away quickly.

Hinata's smile faltered, catching the apprehension in his gaze. She felt her stomach drop, a familiar ache rising within her. He's afraid of me, she thought, her shoulders drooping slightly.

The man stammered as he turned back to Sakura, his movements more hurried than before. "Ah—uh, yes, of course! Coming right up." He retreated into the stall, nearly tripping over a crate in his haste.

Hinata's fingers tightened around the edge of her basket as she tried to steady her expression. The reality of her reputation still unsettled her, no matter how often she saw the unease in people's eyes.

Sasuke, who had been silent the entire time, caught her expression and nudged her lightly. "Don't worry about it," he said, his voice quiet. "People… They don't always understand what they're afraid of."

Hinata looked up, surprised by his attempt to comfort her. "Thank you, Sasuke." She tried to smile, but it didn't quite reach her eyes.

"Here you go," the stall keeper said, returning with a bag of carrots and a head of lettuce. He handed them to Sakura, keeping his gaze low as he avoided looking at Hinata. "That'll be 500 ryo, please."

"Thanks!" Sakura handed him the coins with a cheerful smile, ignoring his nervous glances as she took the vegetables. She gestured for Hinata and Sasuke to follow. "Let's get going, we've got everything we need."

Just as they turned to leave, a small figure dashed out from the crowd, snatching Hinata's grocery bag from her hand. Startled, Hinata gasped as she watched the boy disappear into the crowd.

Sasuke sighed, rolling his eyes as he muttered, "Annoying urchins." He looked down, spotting a pebble on the ground, and gave it a slight nudge with his foot. In an instant, he activated his teleportation jutsu, switching the pebble with the boy in a blink of an eye. Before the boy could even register what had happened, Sasuke had him by the collar, lifting him off the ground.

"Let me go!" The boy squirmed, twisting in Sasuke's grip, but as he met Sasuke's piercing gaze, he froze, fear creeping into his eyes. "P-Please, Uchiha sir… I didn't mean to—"

"Didn't mean to?" Sasuke's tone was calm, almost indifferent, but his gaze was sharp as he stared at the boy. "Do you even know whose bag you stole?" His Sharingan flared to life, red and ominous.

The boy gulped, his face paling. "I-I… I'm sorry, sir! I-I didn't know—"

Sasuke sighed, tilting his head. "Why are you apologizing to me?" He stepped aside, turning the boy to face Hinata, who stood watching with a mix of surprise and pity. "She's the one you wronged. Apologize to Miss Hyuuga."

The boy's eyes widened as he took in Hinata's presence. He opened his mouth, but no words came out. All color drained from his face, his small body trembling as he stammered, "T-Tenseigan…"

Hinata's heart clenched as she saw the fear in his gaze. A small crowd had begun to gather around them, murmurs of concern and disapproval rippling through the onlookers. Some whispered suggestions to imprison the boy, while others pleaded with Hinata to show mercy. Sasuke's glare silenced the crowd as he looked down at the boy, his tone cold. "Apologize. Now."

The boy began to cry, his voice barely a whisper as he struggled to form the words. "I… I'm sorry… please, don't hurt me…" He fell to his knees, his forehead almost touching the ground as he bowed, fearing for his life.

Sakura, watching the boy's tears, stepped forward, placing a hand on Sasuke's arm. "Sasuke, I think he's learned his lesson," she murmured gently.

But Hinata barely heard them. She was caught in the boy's terrified expression, memories flooding her mind of the way Kaguya had forced her to kneel, to bow, to beg within the mental plane they shared. The image of herself, trapped in fear and forced submission, left a bitter taste in her mouth.

Moving slowly, she squatted down in front of the boy, meeting his wide, tear-filled eyes. "Look at me," she said softly, her voice as gentle as she could manage. The boy hesitated, but eventually, he raised his gaze, his small body still trembling.

Hinata reached out, placing her hand over his. "Heed me, creation…" she murmured, casting a spell. The boy blinked in confusion, and when she lifted her hand, he found his palm filled with several coins. His eyes widened in shock.

"You don't need to steal," Hinata said, her tone calm but firm. "Go buy yourself something to eat, and don't take from hardworking people again. I'm letting you off with a warning."

The boy looked up at her, disbelief and gratitude mingling on his face. "Th-Thank you…" he stammered, clutching the coins tightly.

Hinata gave him a soft smile, winking with her unbandaged eye. "Now go on," she said, her voice gentle but firm. "Scram."

The boy stood there for a moment, awestruck, before he scrambled to his feet and dashed off, disappearing into the crowd. The onlookers murmured amongst themselves, some watching Hinata with a mix of awe and unease. Gradually, the crowd began to disperse, people moving away with nervous glances over their shoulders.

Sakura watched the boy run off, shaking her head with a faint smile. "I had a feeling you'd let him off with a warning," she said to Hinata.

Hinata shrugged, a small smile gracing her lips. "He was just hungry. It's not right to punish him for that."

As she turned to walk away, Sasuke and Sakura exchanged a glance, both quietly recognizing the grace and kindness Hinata held within her, despite the weight of power and fear surrounding her. They fell into step behind her, letting the moment pass in quiet respect as they continued through the market.

As the cool night settled over Konoha later that day, a soft crackling fire cast a warm glow on Naruto, Hinata, and Kiba as they sat outside Kurenai's house. The air was still, peaceful, and filled with the soft scent of autumn leaves. Hinata was focused on a book, her brow slightly furrowed as her eyes skimmed over the pages, and Naruto watched her with a grin barely hidden behind his usual nonchalance.

After a few minutes of silence, Naruto leaned forward. "So… what do you think so far?" he asked, clearly eager.

Hinata looked up from the book with a slight smile. "What do you expect me to say?" she replied, feigning innocence.

Naruto scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "I dunno, maybe something like what Sakura said—that it's 'degenerate slop' or something." He chuckled, his grin widening.

Kiba rolled his eyes with a smirk. "Honestly, with a title like Make-Out Tactics, can you blame her? It's kinda hard not to judge it by its cover, you know?"

Hinata held the book a bit closer, a faint blush creeping up her cheeks. "For what it's worth… it actually has a better plot than I anticipated."

Naruto sat up straighter, nudging Kiba with a grin. "See? I told you she'd appreciate it!"

Kiba chuckled, crossing his arms and shooting Hinata a mischievous look. "Yeah, yeah, but that's only 'cause she's just as much of a closet pervert as you, Naruto," he teased, shaking his head. "I mean, she just hides it better."

Hinata reddened further, stammering in protest. "T-That's not true!"

Naruto laughed, clutching his side. "Hinata, it's okay! No shame in enjoying a good story, right?" He winked at her, and Hinata's blush deepened as she avoided his gaze, burying herself back in the book.

Kiba leaned back with a grin, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "Oh, by the way, speaking of stories—heard a pretty interesting rumor about you, Miss Tenseigan-wielder." He pointed a thumb at her, grinning. "Word on the street is that Konoha's Tenseigan Princess is running a charity for street urchins now."

Hinata blinked, startled. "I—I don't know about that…" she said, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "I just… helped a boy today. It was nothing, really."

Kiba snorted, leaning forward. "Right, 'just helped a boy.' It's not that big a deal, but still, I think it's kind of hilarious. Guess I shouldn't be surprised, though—Hinata's always been a softie."

Naruto chimed in, his voice gentler. "I think it's awesome." He looked at her with a warm smile. "Seriously, Hinata, I didn't even know you could do that kind of stuff. Just imagine all the good you could do with your power."

Hinata let out a small sigh, her gaze drifting to the fire. "It did feel… good to help him. I was actually making a difference in someone's life." She paused, thoughtful. "Better than just using my strength to crush Konoha's enemies."

Kiba chuckled. "You know, if you keep it up, maybe one day people might even stop scaring their kids with, 'You better behave, or Lady Hinata will come for you!'"

Naruto laughed, shaking his head. "No way. That's a thing?"

Kiba grinned wider. "Trust me. I've heard it."

Hinata smiled, folding her hands in her lap. "It's fine. What people think of me doesn't matter in the long run, even if it… hurts sometimes." She looked at her hands thoughtfully. "But if I can use this power to help people, even a little… that's better than anything else I could do with it."

Naruto reached out, gently placing a hand over hers. "I get it, Hinata. And I think it's the right call." His voice softened. "You're changing lives."

Hinata felt warmth bloom in her chest at his words. She twirled a strand of her hair absently, her voice quiet. "Even though I used it to help someone today, there was still a part of me that felt… uncomfortable."

Naruto's brow furrowed as he looked at her. "Why?"

Hinata's fingers stilled in her hair, her gaze flickering away. "Whenever I tap into it… whenever I use my Tenseigan…" Her voice grew quieter, tinged with a shadow of unease. "I… I can't help but think of—"

A voice, rich and regal, sliced through her thoughts like cold steel.

"Me?"

Hinata froze. The world around her blurred, dimming as a shiver ran through her. A hollow echo filled her mind, sending goosebumps prickling across her skin.

She knew that voice, all too well.

The voice of something ancient, something vast and powerful. The voice of the one who had haunted her very soul.

Hinata's vision shifted, and before she knew it, she was standing alone in her mind's plane—a cold, desolate void.

As her eyes adjusted to the shadowed surroundings, her gaze landed on a familiar figure. Her heart pounded as she took in the sight, dread curling within her. She was finding it difficult to breath, her lungs seizing up as she hyperventilated.

There, standing tall and ethereal, was her.

Long, flowing white hair spilled like a waterfall to the ground, pooling around her feet. Her face, ageless yet delicate, with features as pale as porcelain, bore a cold elegance that seemed almost unnatural. Dressed in an elaborate robe that draped gracefully, hiding her feet from view, she was a figure that radiated an eerie, chilling beauty. Her pale, blue eyes, deep and unreadable, bore into Hinata with a gaze that seemed to pierce through her very soul.

The one they called 'She of the Beginning.' The self-proclaimed Divine Matron of this world.

Otsutsuki Kaguya.