Chapter 31: Chapter 31: Hyūga Hinata's Mind
What exactly is Uzumaki Naruto doing in that alternate world? Reasoning with Nine Tails? No, that isn't reasoning; it's more like manipulation. Some might even call it outright brainwashing.
Naruto, in his own way, was turning the tables on Nine Tails. He wasn't being aggressive or submissive—he was using logic to challenge the beast's innate pride. The boy's words struck home. If Nine Tails escaped the seal, it would indeed face relentless pursuit from ninja villages eager to wield its immense power. Sooner or later, it would end up sealed again, only in someone else's body.
Nine Tails couldn't deny this reality. Naruto's reasoning cut through its initial bravado and hit at an uncomfortable truth.
In the ninja world, where power determines respect, Nine Tails found itself grappling with an opponent it hadn't anticipated: a nine-year-old boy with a surprising knack for strategy.
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The reaction from the spectators in the ninja world was a mix of amazement and bewilderment.
"Is that kid really only nine years old?" someone muttered.
On a high platform, Orochimaru and Sarutobi Hiruzen exchanged glances. Even the sharpest minds among them couldn't ignore the impressive intellect and foresight Naruto displayed.
Orochimaru sneered, his voice dripping with irony. "Naruto over there must have been secretly learning from Sarutobi-sensei. His manipulation skills are on par with a seasoned shinobi."
Yakushi Kabuto added with a smirk, "It's not manipulation—it's pure genius. He's using Nine Tails for its Chakra while keeping it in check. A perfect symbiotic relationship."
Meanwhile, Tsunade crossed her arms. "Hmph! Don't overthink it. The boy's just climbing rocks and treading water. You're giving him too much credit. Strange power like mine isn't something a child can master so easily."
Uzumaki Kushina, however, defended her son. "Naruto's just stating the truth. If Nine Tails wants to stay alive, it has no choice but to cooperate."
Even Nine Tails, observing this conversation, couldn't help but begrudgingly respect Naruto's insight. "Damn that Fourth Hokage," it growled internally. "At least he raised an opponent who knows how to argue."
---
Naruto, on the other hand, wasn't aware of the storm his words had caused in the audience. He simply continued his life, training and pondering his unusual bond with Nine Tails.
"The Risks of a Tailed Beast"
When Naruto learned that losing the tailed beast meant certain death for the Jinchūriki, his expression darkened. It was a sobering realization. Though he often argued with Nine Tails, he now understood the delicate balance of their relationship. The beast's power came with a cost.
Naruto's world was beginning to shift. Yet, amid his musings about survival and strength, a more personal story was unfolding elsewhere.
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Hyūga Hinata's Struggles
While Naruto debated life and death with Nine Tails, Hyūga Hinata found herself grappling with her own struggles. As a member of the prestigious Hyūga clan, expectations were high. However, her soft nature and reluctance to harm others often placed her at odds with her father's strict teachings.
"You can't even defeat Hanabi, who's five years younger than you. You've brought shame to the Hyūga name!"
Hyūga Hiashi's cutting words echoed in her mind as tears blurred her vision.
Hinata, overwhelmed by grief and self-doubt, fled the Hyūga compound. She ran aimlessly, her heart heavy, her small frame trembling with emotion. She was so absorbed in her misery that she didn't notice the three boys emerging from the corner ahead.
Crash!
Hinata collided with one of them, stumbling backward in surprise. Before she could apologize, the boys turned aggressive.
"Hey, watch where you're going! You ruined my ice cream!"
"You better pay for this!"
The trio, emboldened by her timid demeanor, grabbed her arms and dragged her into a secluded wooded area. They sneered and jeered, enjoying her fear.
"If you don't beg for mercy, we won't let you go!"
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Meanwhile, in the viewing audience, emotions ran high.
Yamanaka Ino frowned. "That poor girl! She didn't deserve that."
Haruno Sakura nodded. "It's so unfair! She even apologized."
Kiba growled in frustration. "Those jerks! They're the real cowards."
Aburame Shino, ever composed, added, "Let's see if Naruto steps in to help."
All eyes turned to the screen, anticipation building. Would Naruto come to Hinata's rescue?
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The Encounter That Changes Everything
Just as Hinata's courage was faltering, a familiar voice rang out.
"Hey, what's going on here?"
The boys turned to see a blonde-haired boy with piercing blue eyes standing at the edge of the clearing. It was Uzumaki Naruto.
Hinata's heart skipped a beat. Her savior had arrived.
Naruto marched forward, his face a mask of defiance. "Three against one? Aren't you ashamed?"
One of the bullies sneered. "What's it to you, loser?"
Naruto clenched his fists. "If you want a fight, I'm right here!"
The bullies hesitated. Despite their bravado, Naruto's fierce gaze unnerved them. After a tense moment, they shoved Hinata aside and ran off, muttering curses under their breath.
---
Hinata looked up, her teary eyes meeting Naruto's.
"Are you okay?" he asked, his voice softer now.
She nodded, her cheeks flushed. "Th-thank you..."
Naruto grinned, scratching the back of his head. "Don't mention it. Those guys were just jerks."
For Hinata, this moment was pivotal. In her darkest hour, someone had stepped forward to defend her—not because he had to, but because he chose to.
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A Ripple Across Two Worlds
The audience watching this scene unfold couldn't help but feel moved.
Yamanaka Ino whispered, "So that's how it began..."
Haruno Sakura smiled. "Naruto doesn't just talk about being a hero—he is one."
Even Tsunade, who had been skeptical of Naruto's abilities, felt a flicker of respect.
But for Hyūga Hinata, watching her counterpart on screen, this moment meant everything. It was a reminder of how one small act of kindness could change a life.
As the scene faded, Hinata clasped her hands together, silently hoping that Naruto in the other world would find the same strength and compassion that she admired so deeply in her own.
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