Chapter 46: Hyuga Hiashi: Tetsuya, May We Chat?

"You go on ahead. I'll report to Lord Third Hokage," Kosuke Maruxing said as they returned to Konoha.

"After a couple of days' rest, we'll continue with our missions."

Tetsuya nodded, understanding the usual procedure for mission reports. "Thank you, Senior Kosuke."

Tetsuya had been eager to visit Hinata and Ino, and with the report handled, he had the perfect opportunity. Seeing Tetsuya's hurried steps, Kosuke smiled, liking the young shinobi more and more.

Kosuke entered the Hokage Building to meet the Third Hokage. "Back already? How do you feel?" Hiruzen asked, not looking up as he stamped a document and moved on to the next.

With the approaching Chunin Exams, preparations were in full swing. Many ninja villages and even nobles from various countries were expected to attend, making it imperative for Konoha to be at its best. The workload left the 69-year-old Third Hokage haggard, cutting into his leisure time.

"Very good. I understand now why you value Tetsuya so highly," Kosuke began. "In time, he'll be a cornerstone of Konoha."

Hiruzen looked up, surprised by Kosuke's high praise. "Tell me more."

Kosuke recounted the mission details, highlighting Tetsuya's conduct and strength. Hiruzen grinned, pleased not only by Tetsuya's abilities but also his character—punishing the wicked and showing mercy to the weak, a true quality of a future leader.

"Work with him for another month," Hiruzen said. "Once he's gained more experience, he'll return to Team 7 to strengthen his bonds with them."

"No problem," Kosuke agreed readily. He too was eager to see how far Tetsuya would go.

Meanwhile, Tetsuya easily found Hinata. Konoha's Genin missions had fixed locations, and his familiarity with Hinata's chakra made it effortless.

" Tetsuya!" Hinata exclaimed, dropping the weeds she was holding and running into his arms. Although it had only been a few days, she had missed him dearly.

Tetsuya hugged her tightly, expressing his own feelings with his actions. In a moment of emotion, he kissed her, causing Hinata to faint from the shock.

Tetsuya sighed, realizing he had forgotten about Hinata's shy nature. Cradling her gently, he turned to Kurenai Yuhi, who was watching with a bemused smile.

"Sensei, Hinata's fainted. I'll take her home," Tetsuya said. "Shino, Kiba, I'll leave the rest to you."

Kurenai teased, "Take good care of her, but don't do anything inappropriate."

Tetsuya felt a bit embarrassed. "Don't worry, Sensei. Hinata's still young, and besides, I should find a beautiful lady like you."

Before Kurenai could react, Tetsuya leapt away with Hinata in his arms, disappearing from sight. Kurenai stood there, a bit flustered. "Did a kid just flirt with me?" she muttered, blushing.

Hinata woke up shortly after, still shy but holding Tetsuya's hand tightly. The two shared an intimate moment, walking through Konoha's streets like any young couple.

"Tetsuya, can you let go of my hand?" Hinata asked, her voice soft.

"No," Tetsuya replied gently. "I'm helping you get used to our future together. We'll be living together for a lifetime, so you can't be so shy."

Hinata's heart warmed at his words, and she forgot to be shy. They spent the afternoon exploring Konoha, visiting shops, and eating at Ichiraku Ramen, where Hinata surprised everyone by eating fifteen bowls.

As the sun set, Tetsuya gave Hinata a bracelet he bought and kissed her again. This time, Hinata didn't faint but responded shyly.

As night fell, their time together ended. Holding hands, they walked to the Hyuga compound, their relationship having grown deeper in just a few hours.

At the entrance, they were met by Hiashi Hyuga and Hinata's younger sister, Hanabi. Hanabi stared wide-eyed at her sister and the handsome young man holding her hand, while Hiashi watched them impassively.

Hinata, startled by her father's presence, tried to pull her hand away, but Tetsuya held on firmly. "Don't be afraid. I'm here."

Hiashi observed their interaction before finally speaking. "Tetsuya, may we chat?"