After parting with Sakura, Naruto made his way to Hinata's house.
The Hyuga clan was already busy preparing for Naruto and Hinata's wedding. The date had been set, and everything was being arranged meticulously.
Jiraiya, having finally decided not to marry yet himself, chose to hold off on his own wedding until after Naruto's. After all, as Naruto's master, he and Iruka would be witnesses at the ceremony.
"Naruto," Hinata said softly, taking his hand, "my father said he would buy us a house on Konoha's main street as our future home."
Naruto smiled and nodded. "No problem, I'll handle it."
Hinata squeezed his hand, her eyes shining. "My father also said he doesn't want you to struggle alone. The Fourth Hokage and Kushina left this world too early. It hasn't been easy for you. Everything… we, the Hyuga, will take care of. You won't have to bear it alone."
Naruto gently patted her head. His happiest moment was marrying Hinata. It was the most correct decision he had ever made. He was grateful that the people who cherished him had never wavered in their love and support.
Hyuga Hiashi, having discussed the wedding arrangements with Naruto, then looked up at him. "Tomorrow is Kakashi's Hokage inauguration, Naruto. You're aware of that, right?"
Naruto nodded. "I know. Granny Tsunade also briefed me on some of the details."
Hiashi smiled. "I will also attend. It's hard to believe… the boy from the Hatake family will become Hokage. But he deserves it. The Copy Ninja, the disciple of the Fourth Hokage… and your teacher's guidance, as well as Tsunade-sama's trust, make him qualified."
Naruto chuckled. "Yeah… Kakashi-sensei himself was surprised at first. He never imagined he'd become Hokage one day."
Hiashi nodded thoughtfully, then gave Naruto an approving smile. "If nothing unforeseen occurs, and if you're willing… the next Hokage should be you."
Naruto smiled and said nothing, because according to the trajectory of his previous life, he knew he would indeed become Hokage eventually.
After spending some time there, evening approached. Naruto remembered he had a family dinner to attend, so he left, spending a few precious moments with Hinata before departing. Hanabi, standing aside, shook her head in mock frustration. "It really stinks of young love here!"
At Naruto's home, Kushina and Minato were busy in the kitchen, preparing for the large gathering. The house was lively, full of chatter and movement, for tonight's dinner included a multitude of guests.
Jiraiya, Kakashi, Tsunade, Shikaku, and Shizune were all present. Even Orochimaru had been persuaded to attend by Jiraiya himself. Though Orochimaru's personality had softened over time, this was the first time he experienced such a boisterous, festive atmosphere. Previously, the most social he ever got was sharing meals with the Third Hokage, Jiraiya, and Tsunade.
"Orochimaru, you're leaving?" Jiraiya suddenly shouted when he heard Orochimaru whispering something. "Where are you going? After being away for so many years, and after all we've been through, you want to leave?"
Orochimaru was speechless.
Tsunade, seated beside Jiraiya, poked him with her elbow. "Orochimaru, sit still! Dare to leave? If you move, I'll beat you up!"
Orochimaru remained silent, slightly bemused.
Hanabi covered her mouth, stifling her laughter. It was the first time she had ever seen the usually cold and sinister Orochimaru appear helpless.
Shikaku merely smiled quietly, knowing well this was a playful exchange between the legendary Sannin. If it were anyone else, they would never dare to joke about killing the Third Hokage in such a casual tone. Only Jiraiya had the audacity.
As the host, Kakashi took the initiative to serve tea and water to everyone. He even attempted to help in the kitchen, but Minato quickly intercepted him.
"Kakashi, go talk to the others outside, not here!"
Kakashi scratched his head in embarrassment. "Alright, I get it."
Just as he stepped out, there was a knock at the door. Kakashi moved to open it and was surprised to see Rin and Obito, followed by Rock Lee in a wheelchair.
"Why are you all coming together?" Kakashi asked.
Rock Lee chuckled. "On the way here, I was being pushed by Tenten, then we ran into Rin and Obito. So we came together. Tenten had to head back."
Obito pushed Lee inside, and the group was greeted warmly by those present. Lee, unable to stand, could only nod politely. Obito seemed more awkward, unused to interacting with so many people at once. The only person he felt comfortable with was Jiraiya.
Rin, under Kakashi's guidance, greeted each person politely.
Jiraiya, ever the storyteller, began explaining quietly to the group. "Rin, a disciple of Minato, was involved in the incident when Kirigakure attempted to use the Three-Tails in a sneak attack. She sacrificed herself to protect Kakashi, who was holding back the Raikiri at the time. Obito, witnessing her death, fell into darkness under Madara's influence."
As Jiraiya explained, all present—except Tsunade, Orochimaru, Shikaku, and Shizune—nodded in understanding. They now realized Obito's profound connection to Rin.
Rin smiled awkwardly. "I'm sorry for the trouble this caused everyone."
Obito managed a small smile. "It's over now. Nothing more remains. We just have to look forward."
Shizune nodded in agreement.
While they conversed, another knock came. Jiraiya leaned over. "It can't be Naruto already, can it?"
Orochimaru shook his head. "No… I don't sense Naruto's chakra outside."
Kakashi stepped to the door, and a familiar voice greeted him.
"Asuma!"
"Hey! Kakashi, congratulations!" Asuma entered, presenting a gift for Kakashi. Jiraiya and the others welcomed him warmly.
Asuma, son of the Third Hokage, was a highly respected Jonin of the village. He shared excellent relations with everyone present. Even Orochimaru offered a subtle nod in greeting.
"It looks like there's a large crowd tonight," Asuma commented as he sat beside Shikaku.
Tsunade, curious, asked, "Why isn't Kurenai here?"
Asuma waved his hand. "She's tending to the children at home. She asked me to deliver this gift to Kakashi. Here, keep it."
Kakashi accepted the gift politely. "Thank you very much."
Jiraiya waved a hand at Asuma. "Sorry, we're not smoking tonight!"
"Why not?" Asuma asked.
Jiraiya chuckled, nodding toward Tsunade, who gently hit him. "You should have told me sooner!"
Everyone exchanged surprised looks. Tsunade was… pregnant. Shizune smiled knowingly, nodding in explanation.
Orochimaru gave Jiraiya a small thumbs-up. Shikaku sighed, smiling. Jiraiya truly had the energy to bring joy wherever he went. The village was indeed full of happiness, and these celebrations were evidence of that.
Another knock sounded at the door. Orochimaru, now smiling subtly, remarked, "This must be the real Naruto's return."
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