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───── A Lσʋҽ RҽႦσɾɳ─────
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︶꒷꒦︶ ๋࣭ ⭑︶꒷꒦︶ ๋࣭ ⭑

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❦Pɾσɱρƚ Tσριƈ❦

December 26th: Destiny + Beauty And The Beast + Reincarnated Lovers

❦Sυɱɱαɾყ❦

Love was a risk, a risk that cost Naruto everything, leading to the loss of the life he always knew and an everlasting separation from his beloved: Hinata Hyūga.

His forbidden love for her brought about a curse that condemned him to live as a monstrous beast, forever wandering alone in despair.

Yet, in this new lifetime, with a woman who bore an uncanny resemblance to his beloved now miraculously in reach, love could very well be the solution to his salvation.

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❦Tαɠʂ❦

Regular Tags: Alternate Universe - Medieval • Arranged Marriage • Beauty & The Beast • Destiny • December 2 • December 5 • December 26 • Emotional • Fairytale • Fairytale Curses • Fantasy • Falling In Love • Family Issues • Fate • Forbidden • Forbidden Love • Heavy Angst • Historical Eras • Hurt & Comfort • Knight AU • Love • Love Confessions • Monster • Mutual Pining • Mythical Beings And Creatures • NHmonth • NHmonth23 • Non-Human AU • Princess AU • Pining • Prophecy • Psychological Drama • Romance • Reincarnation • Reincarnated Lovers • Royal AU •  Soulmates • Tooth-Rotting Fluff • Tragedy • Tragedy With Happy Ending • True Love • 1600s era  • 1700s era • 2023

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NSFW Tags: Body Worship • Cave Sex • Claiming • Coming Untouched • First Time • Fluff • Fluff And Smut • Hickeys • Love • Love Making • Magical • Outside Sex • Ownership • Praise Kink • Tail(s) • Scent Kink • Scratching • Sensation Play • Size Difference Kink • Unprotected Sex • Vaginal Sex • Virgin  • 2023

❦Wσɾԃ Cσυɳƚ❦

Part 1: 12.5K

❦Nσƚҽ❦

So, in this oneshot, we're changing gears from the last "beast" story and jumping into a completely different beast story entirely!

Honestly, I think I might be low-key obsessed with the whole "beast" trope, lmao!

Like I mentioned, this one's going to be a whole different vibe—it's not dark at all, but more touching, filled with love and wholesomeness, but it's also packed with a lot of... tragedy.

This is my first reincarnated lovers' story, and I've got to say, I had a blast writing it!

I drew heavy inspiration from the K-drama "The Tale of the Nine-Tailed." After watching it, I felt compelled to write something centered on reincarnated lovers, especially for my beloved Naruto and Hinata, and the last Naruhina month event was the perfect opportunity to do so! 

Also, I tried something new when writing this. Instead of just third-person POV, I went with a third-person limited view, which was new but also pretty fun!

But anywho, enough chit-chat, haha.

Without further ado, I hope you enjoy!

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A Love Reborn

The Beginning

17th century.

1600s.

---

Naruto Uzumaki

Naruto wasn't supposed to love.

He had taken a solemn oath—never to love, never to wed, never to father children.

He wasn't meant to fall for anyone.

Certainly not Hinata Hyūga—the Princess of the Kingdom of Konoha, the delicacy of the land, the diamond of the ton.

Not to mention, she was the daughter of Hiashi Hyūga himself. He was a king, a formidable ruler known throughout the land for his unwavering authority and strict governance—a man of principles, tradition, and nobility.

A man of steel.

Having such a man as a father meant that Hinata's upbringing was meticulously planned down to the finest detail. From childhood to adulthood, she was taught to walk with poise, to speak with eloquence, and to conduct herself with the dignity befitting a princess.

Her every move was scrutinized, and her every action was held to the highest standards.

Her attire was always immaculate, her manners impeccable, and her education comprehensive. She was trained in the fine arts, fluent in several languages, and educated in the intricate politics of the court. She was even skilled in musical instruments, having mastered the piano, harp, and violin.

Hinata was groomed to be flawless, and untouchable.

Absolutely perfect.

And that is what she became—a beacon of perfection in the eyes of society, more than suitable to one day marry, bear children, and assist the Hyūga lineage flourish and prosper.

Hinata was the epitome of beauty and grace, off-limits to all except suitors with suitable titles—a precious gem that no commoner or knight could ever hope to touch.

Certainly not a knight like him—not Naruto.

He was her royal guard, a position of great honor. He was meant to safeguard her, to be by her side for all of her days, to protect her and remain loyal—not to love her.

She was supposed to be off-limits to him. Yet, he crossed those limits.

He fell in love with her.

Naruto recalled the subtle moments when it all began—the fleeting smiles, the accidental touches, the stolen glances, not just from him, but from her too.

Her gaze began to linger on him just a second longer than usual, and in those moments, he saw a spark of something more in Hinata's shy eyes—an unspoken connection, a shared understanding that he couldn't ignore.

At first, Naruto thought it was just him.

He figured he was just imagining things. But then he started to see that spark in Hinata's eyes more and more—a twinkle of longing, a yearning for the freedom she saw in him.

Each interaction, each shared glance, built a bridge between them, one that was both exhilarating but terrifying.

It felt so new.

...so wrong.

Naruto wasn't sure how it all happened.

The progression from duty to love was a blur. It was as if one day he was merely her protector, and the next, his heart was entirely hers. The line between his oath and his feelings had blurred, and he suddenly found himself drawn to Hinata in ways he could neither control nor comprehend.

It was the greatest victory of his life.

And the greatest mistake of his life.

Nights in the moonlit garden of Konoha palace were where they began to meet in secret.

One night led to another, and another, and before long, they were meeting almost every night.

They would spend their evenings together under the starry night sky. They would sit on the soft grass, surrounded by the fragrant blooms, and talk for hours. They shared their days, struggles, dreams—anything and everything. It didn't matter to them, as long as they were together.

They would even have playful moments where they chased each other through the garden, past the flowers, and under the stars.

Naruto recalls the sound of Hinata's laughter echoing through the night, her delicate hands clutching her dress as she ran, her face glowing with happiness.

And he would chase after her. Always.

"Catch me, Naruto-kun! Catch me!" She would cheer.

And indeed, he would catch her, their laughter mingling as they collapsed onto the soft grass, breathless and happy.

These moments became the only light in Naruto's world.

Hinata became the only light in his world.

The sweetness of her smile, the warmth of her embrace, her lavender eyes full of love, her silky midnight blue hair, her sweet scent, her heartfelt laugh, and her gentle spirit—all of it stayed with him.

Deep in his heart.

Day after day, despite the risk, despite the danger, despite duty or even mere common sense, the two were drawn into an ever-going routine.

Princess and knight by day.

And lovers by night.

Both were always eager for nightfall, when Hinata would slip out of her bed chamber, and Naruto would desert his post to meet in the garden of Konoha palace.

Some nights, when they met together, they would just lie on their backs, gaze at the stars and imagine a future where they could be together.

During these times, Hinata often grew vulnerable with him. She shared her deepest fears and her greatest desires, opening up in a way she couldn't with anyone else.

Hinata even confided in him about her longing for freedom and the strict control her father exerted over her life.

"He is determined to marry me off—my f-father," She told Naruto that night, nearly driven to tears, "Love was never supposed to be a consideration for me. That's what my father has always told me, that I need to marry. I need to choose my family. I need to choose duty. But I f-feel—" Hinata admitted, but then she stopped herself.

Naruto listened intently, as he always did, trying his best to lighten her heart and unburden her.

"You feel differently, don't you, Hinata-sama?" Naruto asked gently.

"You've chosen love, haven't you, hime?" He added softly.

And the look that appeared in her eyes then touched his heart deeply.

Yes. I choose love. I choose you, her eyes had told him.

But there was more.

Her eyes showed a plea for freedom, for something real and true, beyond the cold, heartless world she had always known.

Naruto's heart ached for her, it truly did.

He found himself leaning close, taking her hands in his, and he made the mistake of promising to always protect her. He gave her hope that he could save her from such a horrid life, to be the source of freedom and love she so desperately sought.

"I'll figure something out. I'll save you, I promise," He had assured her.

Naruto remembered the joy that instantly appeared in Hinata's eyes, how she believed him wholeheartedly, placing all her trust in him.

That night, she actually kissed him for the very first time.

"Thank you, Naruto-kun," She whispered against his lips.

But he should have known better than to make such a promise.

What they had was fragile yet unbreakable when they were together, a beautiful dream they lived each and every night.

But dreams were fleeting.

Reality was cruel.

And, forbidden love never lasts.

They were caught.

Hinata and Naruto thought it would be another quiet, hidden night together in the garden, a sanctuary where they could steal moments away from prying eyes, just like all those times before.

But they were wrong.

Naruto could still remember the rustling of leaves and the snap of a twig that alerted them too late.

Suddenly, they were ambushed.

King Hiashi's guards emerged from the darkness, torches in hand, intent on seizing them both.

Naruto fought back fiercely, for Hinata, for both of them, but there were just too many. Their sheer numbers overwhelmed him, and despite his best efforts, they managed to subdue him.

Subdue them both.

The guards then dragged them away, tearing them from their sanctuary.

And just like that, their secret was out.

Naruto had no idea how they had been discovered that night, but it didn't matter. The truth was out, the damage done, and they were now at the mercy of the King—a furious Hiashi Hyūga.

And oh, was he furious.

Their punishment was as cruel as it was merciless.

Hinata's punishment was given first. For defying her father's orders, daring to love someone beneath her stature, and tarnishing her family's honor, she faced severe consequences.

She was forbidden to see Naruto ever again.

Her tear-streaked face and dull eyes were the last sight Naruto saw of her as the guards forcibly took her away to her chambers. Naruto had never seen her so broken. Her desperate cries and pleas echoed through the cold, stone halls, her voice screaming his name the entire time.

He could still hear her cries.

His punishment, however, was far worse.

He was beaten, humiliated, and dragged before the King, where he was forced to his knees and made to face Hiashi's wrath.

"You have betrayed your duty, dishonored my family, and defiled my daughter," The King declared, his voice cold and unforgiving.

"For that, you will pay the ultimate price."

Naruto had accepted his fate.

He believed he deserved it for turning his back on his knight's oath and causing Hinata so much pain. He expected his punishment to be death, a swift end to his suffering. He braced himself for it, thinking it would be a merciful release compared to the agony of being separated from Hinata.

But fate had a crueler design.

Instead, Naruto was brought before a dark, malevolent witch, and he instantly knew what was in store for him.

He would be cursed.

Indeed, the witch cast a spell upon him, a powerful one. She transformed him into a beast—a creature so hideous that Hinata would never again be able to love him.

"You will live out your days as a beast," The witch declared, her voice dripping with malice, "Banished from this palace, condemned to wander the forest for all eternity. You will outlive her, always knowing she is beyond your reach."

Pain tore through Naruto as his body twisted and changed, the curse taking hold. His once strong hands became claws, his noble and formidable body transformed into something large and terrifying, his face a grotesque mask of the beast he had become.

The guards then threw him out of the castle, casting him away from his home, away from people, and away from Hinata.

Discarded like trash.

Now, Naruto roamed the vast, lonely forest that surrounded the palace he once sworn to protect, his heart aching for the love he had lost.

The forest was his prison now, and loneliness was his constant companion.

Each step he took reminded him of Hinata, of the tender moments they had shared and the future that had been stolen from them.

His curse was relentless, ensuring he would never forget. He was cursed to remember, to feel the pain of their love that could never be, every single day.

The only way his curse could be broken was if he was loved again. True love.

But how could that ever happen?

He was now a beast, feared and shunned by all who saw him. The idea of someone seeing past his beast form to the man within, understanding his pain, and loving him, seemed utterly impossible.

It was all wishful thinking. An unattainable dream.

A painful hope he no longer allowed himself to wish for.

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Time skip.

118 years later.

18th century

1700s.

---

|N|

Naruto had lost track of how much time had passed.

The days all blended together, each one indistinguishable from the next. To make matters worse, it seems his curse has made him immortal.

He didn't age, his body remaining unchanged despite the years slipping by.

He couldn't be hurt either, no matter what he tried.

The forest, with all its dangers, posed no threat to him. He had faced storms, wild beasts, and even attempted to end his suffering himself, but nothing could harm him. His wounds would just heal instantly, leaving no trace of his efforts.

The forest around him changed with the seasons, and the passing century, yet he remained the same.

A prisoner in his own body.

Tormented by the endless passage of time.

Tortured by the crushing weight of his curse.

He was forced to live.

He was forced to suffer.

Like clockwork, Naruto roamed the dense forest, just as he did everyday.

His life had settled into a monotonous routine.

He lived in a cave tucked away in the deepest part of the forest. It was a far cry from the grand palace he once protected, vastly different from what he had.

But he couldn't complain.

Every morning, Naruto would make his way to the nearby lake to catch fish for his breakfast. His claws expertly snatched his meals from the water, and after a quick bath to wash away the grime of the previous day, he would scour the forest for berries and edible plants to get him through lunch and dinner.

His senses were sharp, finely attuned to the forest's offerings, ensuring he always found what he needed when he needed it.

The rest of his day was spent roaming the woods, patrolling his territory, and steering clear of any human contact. The only company he had were the wildlife that dared to approach—creatures that, unlike humans, didn't shy away from his monstrous appearance.

That grew to be enough for him, or so often he told himself.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, he would retreat to his cave, where he'd lie awake, staring into the darkness, lost in memories of a past that now felt more like a distant dream.

But this day was different.

He heard something. Trumpets. Horses. Carriages.

He saw something. An estate. People in elegant dresses. Footmen.

And then...

...Hinata.

Naruto almost had a heart attack.

Was that...

Princess Hinata?

Naruto stood on the outskirts of the forest, just staring out into the wide valley of mountains where a grand estate now stood in place of the old Konoha palace.

A woman with the face of his past lover emerged from a carriage, dressed in the fashion of the new era.

Her attire was more elaborate than he remembered; gone were the ball gowns and jeweled dresses of a princess. Instead, she wore a gown of rich fabrics and intricate designs, fit for someone of high status. The dress was adorned with delicate lace and embroidered patterns, with a fitted bodice that flared into a full skirt, giving the appearance of wide hips.

She even wore a tilted hat with a feather that partially hid her face, but only slightly.

Naruto could see her cearly as she walked toward the estate, her delicate hands gripping the sides of her dress to avoid tripping on the hem.

She moved with the same grace he remembered, her long, midnight blue hair cascading down her back in soft curls. Her lavender eyes, he could see them, even from a distance were filled with the same quiet strength and kindness that had always captivated him.

For the first time, in a long time, his heart began to pound rapidly in his chest as he watched her, a mix of hope and disbelief flooding his senses.

"How? How could this be?" He whispered to himself, unable to comprehend what he was seeing.

Hinata shouldn't be here.

She wouldn't be alive.

Naruto bit his trembling lip, gripping tightly to a tree. His nine tails, now his constant companions, swished back and forth in a rapid frenzy behind him, mirroring his emotions.

Was it truly her, reborn in this new era? Or was this another cruel trick of his curse, meant to torment him further?

Naruto didn't know.

Hinata seemed just as she once was, as if she had been born again, reincarnated within the Hyūga bloodline, from the lineage of Princess Hinata herself. Even this version of Hinata, seemed to carry the same name and last name as his beloved.

Hinata Hyūga.

Naruto knew what he saw.

He knew what he heard.

The unmistakable sound of her voice, and her handmaidens calling her name, even from a distance, sent shivers down his spine.

Naruto had to be sure.

He had to know if this was truly his Hinata, somehow returned to him after all these years.

Naruto's mind raced constantly with possibilities as he stood at the edge of the forest. He didn't care if he was spotted. His body refused to move, paralyzed by the whirlwind of his own thoughts.

A grin cracked across his whiskered face, revealing his razor-sharp teeth.

Could this be the key to breaking his curse? Was this a chance for redemption, for a second chance at the love that had been so cruelly torn from him?

This changes everything.

This could be...

A potential end to his eternal suffering.

A potential reunion with the love of his life.

Naruto could not just ignore this.

So, he decided to take another risk. He allowed himself to hope again and break away from his usual monotonous routine.

Naruto chose to watch over her, to learn more about this mysterious woman who bore the name and face of his lost love. If she was truly a reincarnation of his Hinata, perhaps there was still hope.

Maybe, just maybe, his curse could be broken after all.

●・○・●・○・●

Fourteen days later

---

|N|

He saw her again.

Hinata.

Night had fallen, and she stood on the balcony of her bedchamber, high above in her estate. Her delicate hands rested on the stone railing, her eyes gazing out into the forest that surrounded her compound.

The soft moonlight bathed her in a gentle glow, illuminating her flowing, silken nightgown that shimmered in the night. Her long, dark hair cascaded down her back, unbound and free, swaying slightly in the evening breeze.

Naruto watched her from his perch on a sturdy tree branch, just staring up at her as he often stared up at the stars. The cool night air rustled the leaves around him, whistling in his ears atop his blonde, spiky hair.

His claws absently picked at a branch full of berries he had gathered just a few moments ago, occasionally tossing a berry into his mouth. The taste of the berries though, was almost forgotten, overshadowed by the sight of her.

The woman on the balcony.

Not once did he take his eyes off of her.

Not for a second.

Over the past two weeks, he had learned more about her.

He discovered her real name: Hinata Hyūga II.

She was the daughter of Hiashi Hyūga II, a powerful duke, which made Hinata a lady.

Despite the different title, she still held a prominent place within the Hyūga royal dynasty. Her life was filled with the same grace and elegance he remembered, but now, in this new era, it carried the weight of her noble lineage in a different form.

It was her.

His lover had been reincarnated.

The same gentle eyes, the same kind heart—everything about her resonated with the soul of the Hinata he once knew. The only difference Naruto noticed was that this Hinata seemed more outspoken and even a bit rebellious.

She loved to pull pranks on her handmaidens, and she wasn't afraid to voice her opinions.

She had a playful spirit that he hadn't seen before, a confidence that shone through in all of her interactions. She seemed to relish moments of freedom, often sneaking out to explore the estate grounds, spend time in the gardens, or even ride her horse in the fields, just enjoying the simple pleasures of life.

Seeing her so full of happiness, so bold, and embracing life with such passion made Naruto fall in love with her all over again.

This was all he ever wanted—to see her happy, to see her smile. Now, after all these years, having his wish granted at last made all his past suffering feel meaningless.

He couldn't stop watching her, couldn't stop listening to her.

His keen ears were tuned in to her almost every single day.

Yes, it was her.

It seemed impossible, yet here Hinata was, living and breathing once more.

So close, yet so far.

Naruto smiled faintly, peering up at her once more.

But his eyebrows furrowed when she turned her head, and for a moment, it seemed as if she looked directly at him. It could have been his mind playing tricks on him, but her lavender eyes appeared to search the darkness, as if drawn by a force she couldn't comprehend.

His movements stopped. His breath hitched.

His heart skipped a beat. His chest heaved up and down.

Suddenly, he wanted to approach her, to reveal himself, to speak to her, but fear held him back. He looked down at himself and, for a split second, he had forgotten.

How could he, a beast, confront her now?

Naruto groaned and facepalmed himself with one big, clawed hand.

"You baka. Are you trying to scare her half to death?" He muttered matter-of-factly.

And who's to say she would even remember him? Their love?

Hell, could she ever love him again?

Naruto shook off his thoughts, which were threatening to drive him mad. The relentless what-ifs clawed at his sanity, filling his mind with endless possibilities meant only to raise his hopes.

He should have learned by now.

There was no use in dwelling on such questions; they would only lead to despair.

So, Naruto took a deep breath and tried his best to ground himself in the here and now, pulling himself out of his thoughts for once.

His glowing red slitted eyes peered up at her again, and he resumed his watch. He watched as Hinata's lavender eyes scanned the treeline as if drawn to it, a sense of longing in her gaze.

She seemed to do this often.

Every night in fact.

Perhaps some part of her soul remembered.

Perhaps she felt something.

Perhaps she was searching for something—for him.

Or perhaps, Naruto was just being hopelessly optimistic...

...again.

His head snapped back up when Hinata let out a frustrated sigh and turned around, slipping back into her bedchamber. The fluttering curtains were the last trace of her presence for the night, gently swaying in the breeze.

Naruto frowned.

I guess he'll see her again tomorrow then.

It was painful, almost unbearable, to watch her go, to see her leave for the night.

If he could just find a way to reach her, to make her remember, perhaps...

Naruto let out a sigh and tossed the bare berry branch aside, ignoring the loud thud it made as it hit the ground, a sound his keen ears easily picked up.

Just like Hinata, he retreated to his cave and decided to sleep, eager to end the day quickly so the next one could come, bringing with it another chance to see Hinata once again.

●・○・●・○・●

A Couple of Weeks Later

---

|N|

He was crouched by a berry bush, his nine tails swishing wildly behind him in excitement over his excellent find for lunch.

The bush was thick with dark green leaves, interspersed with clusters of vibrant berries that glistened in the dappled sunlight filtering through the forest canopy.

Blackberries.

Raspberries.

Blueberries.

Each berry was plump and juicy that promised sweetness, nestled among thorns that could prick him with just the wrong move. Not that he was afraid of that—his skin was durable.

He'd be fine.

As he picked the fruit, the delicate skins gave way easily under his claws, which he had to use with the utmost care to avoid crushing the fragile fruit entirely.

Over the years, Naruto had to learn to be gentle, to adapt to his new body and new life. It was a skill that had taken so much time to master, especially since every part of him was designed for destruction.

He was supposed to be a monster.

Being gentle was never supposed to be a part of him.

Not anymore.

His claws, his superhuman strength, his very essence seemed designed to destroy rather than protect.

The witch seemed to have had a twisted sense of humor in crafting his curse.

Naruto had all the time in the world to sit around and piece together the cruel irony of it all.

Every part of his transformation was a mockery of his former self—a knight meant to defend and keep the peace, now turned into a beast meant to instill fear and wreak havoc.

It was so ironic and pitiful, he could laugh.

He's cried enough. He cried so much that there were no tears left anymore.

Now, he could only laugh.

Especially now, anyway.

After his many trials and errors, Naruto has done the impossible and has actually become in tune with his monstrous form.

He's long since turned his back on wanting to be human, of having normal arms, legs, and dull senses. At first, he missed it—missed the normalcy, talking to humans, being accepted instead of feared.

But living in a forest, one tends to forget what one used to have.

Naruto let out a sorrowful sigh.

Who was he kidding?

He still missed being human from time to time.

Why must he always lie to himself?

Naruto shook his head at his thoughts his, red slitted eyes falling down to his claws.

Those were the first he had to learn to get used to.

He once deemed his claws hideous, monstrous things he couldn't bear to look at. But now, they have actually become an essential part to ensure his survival. They help him get around, climb trees, dig, and efficiently hunt fish and small game without fail.

Then there were his sharp teeth.

His teeth had once been a source of constant discomfort, always feeling too large and out of place in his mouth. The constant pressure made his gums throb and ache, robbing him of sleep night after night.

His teeth had once been pure torture.

But now, his teeth have become his greatest ally, capable of biting through almost anything.

He's seen firsthand how handy they are to have in the wilderness.

Now his tails, were a different story entirely.

He and his tails actually have quite a history together. Out of all the changes that came with his beastly transformation, his tails were by far the most troublesome.

It wasn't just the fact that he had one tail to deal with—no, to his frustration and disbelief, he had nine.

In the beginning, his tails seemed to move on pure instinct, making them nearly impossible to control. He'd wake up with them twisted around tree branches or caught in the underbrush, thorns and twigs painfully stuck in them.

There were times when his tails would get in his way as he walked, tripping him up or forcing him to push them aside just to see clearly.

It was difficult at first—so difficult.

For a while, his tails felt more like a burden, a constant reminder of how far he'd strayed from being human.

But over time, he grew more attuned to their movements, learning how to direct them with his thoughts and instincts. Slowly, they became less of a burden and more like extensions of himself. His tails helped him balance, fend off predators, and even provided him warmth on cold nights.

His enhanced senses—keen sight, night vision, and heightened sense of smell—really came in handy as well. They alerted him of any potential dangers long before they appeared, and even allowed him to navigate through his dark "homey" cave with ease.

He's using homey loosely, of course.

These abilities, once cruel jokes thrust upon him, made the forest less daunting and more manageable. They turned this place from his personal hellhole into a domain he could actually navigate with ease.

That was a plus; he couldn't complain about that.

If he had been a regular human with a regular body, he would have died long ago, despite his expertise as a knight.

Not that he would have minded that.

But now, seeing Hinata again, he was starting to rethink that.

Naruto let out a hum as his keen senses were flooded with the goodness of the berries, putting a halt to his train of thoughts.

The sweet morsels released a fragrant, tangy aroma as he picked them. He popped one into his mouth and bit down with his sharp teeth, bursting the berry into multiple pieces. Juices splashed onto his tongue, where his heightened taste receptors savored a perfect blend of sweetness and tartness.

"Mmm." Naruto hummed.

He picked another.

But suddenly, he heard something.

He straightened, his senses sharpening.

A horse?

He could hear it.

He could smell it—

The dirt it kicked up, hear its galloping, and the distant sound of a woman urging it forward with the flapping of its reins. The rhythmic thud of hooves grew louder and louder, mingling with the rustling of leaves and the occasional snap of twigs.

His heart skipped a beat.

"Hinata-sama." He whispered.

Without a second thought, Naruto dropped the berry in his hand and rushed toward the sound, his inhuman speed carrying him swiftly through the forest. Trees blurred past him as he dashed through the undergrowth, every muscle in his body propelling him forward.

In no time at all, he broke through the trees and arrived at the entrance where the forest and valley merged, the sound of galloping growing even louder.

There she was—Hinata Hyūga.

Riding a horse.

She rode a beautiful white mare galloping at full speed across the fields, racing towards the forest, beyond the mountains, and away from her estate.

Even now, it seemed she couldn't lose her grace.

Her midnight blue curls streamed behind her like a dark banner, flying freely in the wind. She wore a flowing dark purple dress, embroidered with silver threads that sparkled in the sunlight. A matching riding cloak billowed behind her, its fabric rippling like waves through the air.

Hinata rode her horse expertly, her posture confident, her delicate hands steady on the reins, and her legs gripping the saddle securely on either side. She didn't ride sidesaddle or need any help; she seemed to manage it all on her own, with no one in sight. Only her.

It was very impressive.

Hinata moved with the grace of someone who had spent years mastering the art of riding, like a true equestrian. Her lavender eyes were focused ahead, determined.

Hinata urged her horse on, using the side of her riding boots, which peeked out from beneath her dress, to lightly tap its sides and keep it moving. The horse responded to her gentle command, its powerful legs pounding the earth as it raced toward the forest, neighing joyfully.

Naruto's heart pounded in his chest.

It was hypnotizing, watching her.

Surreal even.

Naruto still couldn't get used to seeing this version of her, walking, talking, breathing. Every time he saw her, it felt like the first time all over again. It was like his present and past were colliding in a beautiful, almost haunting way.

Hinata was so breathtaking, a vision from his memories brought to life. The way she carried herself, the sparkle in her lavender eyes, and the grace in her movements were all so familiar, yet somehow new.

She even laughed as she rode, her joyful cheers carried by the wind. It was a sound Naruto hadn't heard in over a century—her laughter, her pure happiness—and it filled him with a painful yearning. The sound was melodic, echoing through the valley and touching a part of his heart that had long been dormant.

It reminded him of the times they had spent together, carefree and full of love.

His mind began to race again, contemplating what was likely another mistake, excitement getting the best of him.

Is this the moment?

Hinata was so close, within his reach, seemingly riding straight toward him.

Should he reveal himself to her now?

Should he...

Naruto didn't know what came over him.

Suddenly, he found himself taking a step forward, further out of the forest, and into the valley. He blamed it on the adrenaline rush that coursed through him due to the possibility of having Hinata see him again, of potentially reclaiming what he had long lost.

A fool he was for even thinking that.

Because, as soon as he took a step, his foot snapped a twig.

Snap!

Naruto gasped.

"Crap." He whispered in frustration.

The sharp noise seemed to hang in the air, echoing over the rustling leaves and distant birdsong in the forest. It was so loud that even Hinata heard it.

She was just a few feet away now, so the sharp gasp that escaped her lips was impossible to miss, her head snapping toward the forest in alarm.

'Abort! Abort!' His brain screamed, and Naruto obeyed without hesitation.

Without a second thought, he bolted.

Naruto retreated back into the forest to do what he did best...

Hide, wait, and watch.

●・○・●・○・●

Meanwhile

---

Hinata Hyūga II.

From a young age, Hinata had always loved the outdoors.

There was something about the open air, the rustling leaves, and the distant mountains that called to her. Ever since she first learned to walk, she had felt an inexplicable urge to explore the world beyond the ornate halls of her home.

The forest, in particular.

It had always been there, as far back as she could recall, standing sentinel over her home. Even better, the forest stood just within view from her balcony, a sight she delighted in gazing endlessly at, night after night.

She could never figure out why.

She could never grasp the pull she felt—the urge to go there, to the forest.

The pull tugged at her heartstrings, occupying her thoughts during the day and haunting her dreams at night.

It was always there.

Yet, that pull scared her.

Hinata had always been scared of what might lie within those trees, of the dangers her curiosity might lead her to, but the pull was persistent, a constant whisper at the edge of her consciousness.

Dawn and dusk, year after year, the pull remained.

Now, in her eighteenth year, life as the daughter of the duke has fully taken hold, laden with relentless expectations and constraints.

She was the daughter of the esteemed Hiashi Hyuga II.

And she was of age now, prime and prepped in her father's eyes.

Hinata was supposed to embody nobility and grace, to be perfect in every way, and one day marry a man of suitable status who would make her father proud.

Much to her dismay.

Her days were filled with lessons on etiquette, needlework, and the art of conversation, all under the watchful eye of tutors and her father's stern gaze.

Expensive dresses embellished with intricate lace and corsets that cinched her bosom and waist too tightly became her daily uniform—attire that placed her body on uncomfortable display, but not only so, also made every move incredibly excruciating.

Hinata was permitted to always wear these insufferable dresses, no matter how much lip she gave her father. They were supposed to "signify her status," or so she's told.

Her father constantly reminded her that such dresses were appropriate attire for a young lady of her standing. He would go on and on about the importance of appearances and propriety, insisting that her clothing reflected their family's reputation.

But to her, they were just a constant reminder of her confinement, reinforcing her sense of feeling trapped.

Hinata has always kept these feelings to herself.

She never wanted to speak to anyone about this.

But often, Hinata felt like she was living someone else's life.

The rigid structure of her days, the constant pressure to be the perfect daughter, to uphold the ideals and expectations set for all the ladies of her esteemed lineage: symbols of the Hyūga family's honor and prestige—was all just a role.

And yet, it was one she played dutifully, much to her reluctance, but she never felt like her true self.

Outdoors, beyond the estate walls, Hinata felt a sense of freedom unlike anything she experienced within the confines of her home. Riding her horse, exploring the valley and the gardens, just being beneath the sun where she could breathe deeply and move without restraint, was when she felt more like her true self.

Out there, she could run through the fields, roll across the grass, feel the wind in her hair, and laugh without fear of reprimand.

She felt the most alive when she was outdoors, and when she was there, the pull of the forest seemed to grow stronger and stronger...

Just like now.

"Yah!" Hinata urged her horse forward, the beautiful animal responding to her light foot taps by picking up its gallop. Its hooves stamped the earth repeatedly, jolting her up and down in a steady rhythm, her cloak flying behind her.

Her lavender eyes sparkled with excitement as they approached the entrance of the forest in no time.

For a moment, she forgot all the burdensome expectations her father demanded of her, the tight corsets, and the rigid schedule of her life. Out here, she was simply Hinata, a woman with a thirst for curiosity and a love for freedom.

She was free, if only for a little while, and that was enough.

"Come on, Luna, faster," Hinata laughed, clutching the reins more tightly. The horse neighed in response, as if understanding her, obediently doing what its gentle owner demanded.

Hinata felt the pull grow even stronger now, her lavender eyes focused on the treeline before her. It was as if the forest itself was calling to her, guiding her towards something unknown but... promising.

She didn't know what it was. She couldn't shake the feeling.

She just had to go there.

She had to.

Snap!

Out of nowhere, a sharp snap of a twig echoed just beyond the forest's edge. Hinata heard it clearly, the sharp crack cutting through the quiet evening air. It sounded unnervingly close, just a few strides away amid the thick trees.

With a gasp, Hinata's fingers clenched tightly around Luna's reins and she yanked hard, forcing the horse to come to a sudden stop at the edge of the towering forest. Luna's hooves dug deep into the soft earth, scattering bits of dirt and fallen leaves as she skidded to a stop, her nostrils flaring in response to the sudden command.

Hinata hesitated, her plan to venture into the forest this time, to follow the strange pull she felt, coming to a complete halt.

Instead, she remained put, peering into the forest from the outside in, much like she often did from her balcony.

The unexpected noise startled her more than she cared to admit, her heart racing and her breath hitching in her throat.

It was a moment of vulnerability for Hinata, one she couldn't afford, but fear had already taken hold of her.

She knew all too well how fear could affect animals, and Luna was no exception.

The moment the twig snapped and Luna sensed the wave of fear radiating from Hinata, the horse's demeanor changed instantly.

She began to grow rowdy.

The horse neighed frantically, and soon enough, began to jump around the clearing, her poor heart startled. Her ears twitched back and forth, and her head rocked about, prompting Hinata to act quickly.

With a gasp, Hinata gripped the reins tighter, shushing Luna in an attempt to calm her, but the horse's movements only became more frantic.

"Easy girl. Easy," Hinata reassured, her voice trembling slightly as she tried to soothe the panicked horse, even reaching out to stroke the horse's white mane. But Luna was too spooked to hear any of the soothing words she spoke.

Fear had taken hold of her too, and she continued to thrash about, her eyes wide with terror.

It was no use.

Suddenly, Luna reared up, her powerful legs kicking into the air, her neighs echoing into the forest. Hinata's heart raced, her hands rushing back to clutch the reins as tight as she could, but Luna's wild movements proved too strong.

It was too late.

Her fingers slipped, and in an instant, she was thrown from the saddle.

Hinata yelped, flying through the air only to hit the ground hard, the impact jarring her body and knocking the wind straight out of her. Pain shot through her arm and side as she landed on the ground awkwardly with a thud.

The grass seemed to bite into her skin, while dirt and leaves clung to her dress and cloak, sullying the precious attire her father seemed to care so much about.

Hinata couldn't help but wince, trying to catch her breath, her chest heaving as she struggled to pull in air, to gain her composure.

Falling while riding was almost foreign to her now. Of course, it was different when she first started her training.

As a child, Hinata remembered falling off her horse countless times. Controlling something ten times bigger than her and staying in the saddle for long periods of time was awfully challenging for the miniature version of her.

She fell so much that eventually, the pain no longer bothered her.

She got used to it.

Each tumble left Hinata with scraped knees, bruised elbows and even broken bones, but it toughened her up, fostering a resilience inside her that her father found...unseemly.

He repeatedly insisted that she stop riding; she had lost count of how many times he's told her that.

He would scold her, repeating his usual spiel about how riding was considered unladylike and inappropriate for someone of her status, emphasizing that she needed to maintain a certain image.

Of course, Hinata ignored him.

She kept going, practicing tirelessly until she became so skilled that she rarely found herself leaving the saddle.

But now...

"Ouch," Hinata groaned in minor discomfort from her jarring fall. She could feel the sting of her scraped arm and the deep ache in her bruised ribs, each breath sending a sharp pang through her side.

But instead of crying, she laughed softly at herself, "Well done, Hinata. Getting scared of a noise in the woods," She muttered, pulling herself up to a sitting position in the grass with another wince. She wiped the dirt and grass from her hands, using one to clean the other, her dress and rider's cloak billowing around her.

Luna neighed nervously from afar.

But at the sound of Hinata's laughter, she circled back, now a bit calmer. The horse bent down to nuzzle Hinata's face, nickering softly as if sensing her midnight blue-haired owner's pain and wanting to comfort her.

Hinata reached up to stroke Luna's muzzle, a fond smile on her lips. She was so grateful Luna hadn't run off. She knew Luna wouldn't, but it was still comforting to have her loyalty in such a moment.

"Thank you, Luna," Hinata whispered soothingly as she gently petted her horse.

"You're such a good girl," She murmured also, loving how Luna neighed in response.

However, as soon as she moved her arm, she winced again, clutching her elbow. Another sharp pain shot through her.

That's when she saw it.

"Oh dear," She whimpered, her voice shaky as she noticed the blood seeping through the fabric of her dress. Carefully, she rolled up her slightly torn sleeve, only to be met with a nasty surprise.

A large, jagged cut was there, along her right arm.

Hinata whimpered as she inspected the injury closely, her lavender eyes darting over the jagged edges of the cut.

The wound was deep and raw, blood oozing from the torn skin in a steady flow, the warmth slowly coating her flesh like a spreading stain. Specks of dirt and small debris from the forest floor clung to the exposed flesh, creating dark smudges against her otherwise pale complexion, which she found rather icky.

Looks like a stick got her good when she fell.

She was bleeding quite a bit.

The sight of it made her stomach churn.

Hinata took a shaky breath, "Oh no, my father is going to kill me." She muttered before she stopped herself.

"No, he's going to yell at me, and then he's going to kill me. Kami." She corrected herself with an exasperated shake of her head.

She took another look at her arm and groaned.

She needed to clean this up and fast.

She needed to—

Hinata's thoughts were suddenly interrupted by a loud rustle in the forest ahead, the sound much louder than the snap she heard before. Her back straightened instantly, and she whipped her head towards the noise, eyes fixed on the forest entrance just ahead. The sound was close, echoing, just as it had before.

"What... what is that?" Hinata exclaimed in fright.

Her lavender eyes scanned the darkening spaces between the trees, attempting to pinpoint the source of the persistent noise. But by the sun setting, such a task felt absolutely impossible.

She couldn't see anything.

But that didn't stop her mind from racing with possibilities.

Was it an animal, or something else entirely?

She tilted her head, trying to see better, her dark locks falling over her shoulder.

"Wh-Who's there?"

The forest fell silent at the sound of her voice, with only the faint rustle of bushes responding to her call. Hinata's heart pounded as she scanned the shadowy tree line, her head swiveling back and forth, straining to spot any movement or sign of the culprit.

But she found nothing.

The dim light made it difficult to see clearly, even squinting her eyes served useless. It was like peering into a pitch black void.

But she couldn't ignore one thing.

As she sat there, she couldn't shake the sense that there were eyes watching her from the shadows, from the trees.

Not to mention, the familiar pull she always felt now seemed stronger than ever—unbearably strong.

Hinata couldn't shake it.

Luna must have sensed it too.

She whinnied with concern, stomping her hooves on the ground and snorting loudly, clearly growing agitated again. Hinata attempted to soothe her with gentle strokes along her muzzle, but her own fear made it hard to project any sense of comfort.

"What is-?"

"You're hurt."

A voice emerged from the woods.

And it was this voice that nearly scared Hinata to death.

She yelped, scrambling to her feet in an instant. Her arm protested due to her rather abrupt movement, a dull ache throbbing beneath the adrenaline rush.

But, she didn't feel a thing.

"Oh my kami!" She exclaimed in fear, her voice echoing slightly in the stillness of the forest. She hadn't expected to be greeted by a voice of all things—maybe another rustle of leaves or an animal rushing out of the bushes, but not a literal voice calling out to her.

Her horse echoed her distress with a nervous whinny, finding the situation just as bizarre.

Hinata clung to Luna for comfort, feeling the warmth and strength of the animal beneath her trembling hands.

"Who's there?" Hinata asked urgently, her eyes scanning the clearing in a panic to ensure no one else was nearby. She even checked behind her, but she saw no one.

Not only that, she distinctly recalled hearing the voice come from in front of her—from within the forest.

Hinata gaped in shock.

Did she hit her head? Is she hearing things now?

This couldn't be normal—hearing voices from the forest? Right?

When Hinata felt drawn to the forest, and wanted to explore its depths, she certainly hadn't expected to hear it speak to her.

No way!

"Oh my goodness," Hinata's heart pounded fiercely against her ribcage, its rapid beats echoing in her ears. She whipped her head back towards the darkness of the forest, her lavender eyes widening as they locked onto two glowing red orbs staring back at her.

The eerie gaze seemed to pierce through the dim shadows, sending a paralyzing chill down her spine. With a startled screech, she instinctively yanked Luna's reins, the leather creaking under her grip. She hastily backed away, her breath coming in panicked gasps.

"What's going o-on-!"

"Don't be afraid. I mean you no harm."

There it was again—the voice.

Hinata froze, her breath catching at its sound.

This time, the voice seemed to emanate directly from the direction of those glowing red eyes, their crimson intensity cutting through the gathering dusk.

The voice sounded deep and husky, definitely male.

Her heart raced faster, but oddly, she didn't feel the fear she expected. Instead, she suddenly felt an unusual intrigue.

"Wh-Who are you?" Hinata demanded, trying to sound braver than she felt. Once again, Luna neighed in panic, whipping her head toward the estate as if signaling it was time to leave.

But Hinata, to her own bewilderment, couldn't move. She stood frozen, gazing into the depths of the forest, locked onto the red eyes there, almost desperate to know who the voice belonged to.

"Who I am is not important right now. Your arm is bleeding. It must be taken care of immediately."

"My arm?" She looked down at her bleeding wound, wincing, "Wh-Why should you care about my arm?" She asked, as if it were completely normal to talk with a mysterious voice in the woods. And to add to the confusion, she caught herself eagerly awaiting a response from the voice, almost wanting to hear what it had to say.

Yet, the response didn't come right away.

In fact, it remained silent for quite some time. Even the red eyes had disappeared.

Hinata frowned.

She looked up at the vibrant sky, streaked with hues of orange and pink. It was such a beautiful sight but she knew what it meant—it signaled the sun's descent and the approach of night.

Dusk.

Hinata turned back toward her estate, a sense of urgency pulling at her, sinking in deep like a restless need.

She whimpered.

"I-I should go," She whispered to herself, aware that it wouldn't be long before her handmaidens—or even her father—started to grow suspicious of her prolonged absence.

With a brief bite of her lip, she added, "I-I'm heading back now—"

"Wait, wait!"

The voice called out again, this time with urgency, catching Hinata's attention. She turned back, puzzled by why she felt compelled to announce her departure and why the voice seemed so desperate for her to stay.

She was so confused.

Hinata stood stiff, gazing intently into the forest where the red eyes had reappeared. And once more, she felt an irresistible tug toward them, toward the voice—a force she couldn't resist or ignore.

It felt as though she had to answer it—oddly.

"Y-Yes, mysterious voice in the woods?" She giggled at her own response, finding humor in the absurdity of the situation.

The voice was silent for a moment before speaking again.

"I can help with your injury, but you must promise me you won't be afraid."

"Afraid? Why would I be—"

"Just promise me, please."

Instantly, Hinata's curiosity piqued.

This newfound urgency in the voice's tone struck a chord within her—it sounded concerned yet sincere, soft and calming, like a gentle breeze on a warm summer day, whispering through the leaves.

She glanced at her still-bleeding arm, then back into the depths of the forest. She didn't know why she was speaking to a mysterious voice in the woods—her father had warned her about talking to strangers, about not getting involved in matters of absurdity.

Still, she couldn't stop herself.

She didn't know why she responded to the voice.

She didn't understand why she said it.

But she did, and the words that came out were as if she had said them before, unbidden.

"I-I-I promise," Hinata whispered, her soft, melodic voice echoing gently, blending with the murmurs of the forest.

For some reason, she felt an inexplicable trust toward the voice. She couldn't explain why; she just did.

What was happening to her?

Was she well?

Hinata couldn't be sure.

She couldn't grasp why those words had escaped her lips or why she felt an unexplainable urge to stand by them, but a strange familiarity lingered in the air, like she had been here before in some distant dream.

Her heart raced even faster as she scanned the depths of the forest, searching for any sign of the voice or those red eyes again. But all that met her gaze was darkness and the swaying of the trees. And the air was only filled with the soft sigh of the wind, the rustling of leaves, and the distant chirping of crickets.

But then, she heard it again.

"Very well."

All of a sudden, the rustling grew louder and louder, and an instinctive urge swept over her, and Luna too, causing them both to take a step back.

Luna neighed in response, tossing her head to and fro, but Hinata kept a steady grip on the reins to calm her. She gripped them tight, as tight as her wounded arm would let her anyway, her lavender eyes staring intently into the forest the whole while.

But what she saw emerged from there...

What she saw as the source of the calm and sweet voice she had heard before, was certainly not at all what she expected.

In an instant, she found herself right back on her bum yet again.

"Oh dear!" Hinata gasped, her eyes widening as she came face to face with a... creature.

Not a human.

Not an animal.

But a creature.

A creature unlike anything Hinata had ever seen before.

It emerged from the forest like a shadow, slipping effortlessly among the trees, with rustling leaves marking its steps. It looked like some kind of cave dweller, coming out from the deep darkness into the fading evening light, stepping into the open for all to see, for her to see.

Every move it made and every step it took was as smooth as it was deliberate, blending perfectly with the shadows and greenery around it.

But as soon as the mysterious creature revealed itself, Luna reacted almost immediately.

She leaped forward, positioning herself protectively in front of Hinata with a frantic whinny. Her powerful legs kicked up dirt, her body tensed and alert, eyes wide with fear and concern for her rider—for Hinata.

Luna was uneasy, and scared but even so, she remained by her side—even now.

Hinata's breath caught in her throat as she just gazed at the creature now in her presence, taking in its features.

Its features bore no resemblance to any human she's seen—no human eyes, ears, hands, arms, or face. Everything about it was beast-like, from its imposing stature to its uncanny resemblance to a fox.

Hinata couldn't keep her mouth from gaping.

Its ears were orange and furry, capped with bold black tips, poking out from a wild tangle of shaggy blonde fur, much like a fox's. The creature's snout was long and pointed, its nose twitching slightly, and three distinct marks ran along each side of its pronounced cheeks, almost resembling...whiskers.

But what captivated Hinata most were the creature's eyes.

Those eyes were the same ones she had seen in the forest before, but now she beheld them in full.

The creature's eyes bore deep crimson irises with narrow black slits for pupils. They glowed eerily in the dim forest light filtering through the trees, fixed on her with an intense, almost longing gaze—eyes that carried a weight of deep sorrow.

Hinata frowned, her lavender eyes shifting downward, drawn by curiosity.

But that's when she noticed its tail, or rather, its multiple tails. The tails moved almost hypnotically, gracefully even, like ribbons caught in a gentle breeze.

Hinata's gaze followed each tail as she silently counted them one by one. Her lips parted slightly in surprise as she mouthed the number "nine."

Nine tails.

The creature had nine of them.

Hinata could only stand in silent awe, unable to look away.

Each of the creature's massive tails was covered in a striking pattern of orange and white fur, standing out sharply against its ragged, tattered clothing that hung loosely over its muscular, fur-covered body.

As it approached, Hinata noticed that it walked on two legs like a human, though its feet were bare. Each toe ended in sharp, claw-like nails that dug into the earth with every step, leaving small impressions in the soft ground.

Despite how scary the creature looked, it moved with a quiet grace, its bare feet making little sound on the forest floor. Its arms swung smoothly at its sides, and with each motion, sharp, elongated claws glinted faintly in the dim light.

It seems even its hands were far from ordinary.

Hinata's lavender eyes carefully studied every detail of the creature, and as she took in its full appearance, it struck her as almost... masculine. And if she wasn't mistaken, even its voice carried a distinctly male tone.

Hinata's heart raced, her eyes widening in shock, her mouth hanging agape. She had never come across anything like him before—both frightening and mesmerizing all at once.

Was it strange to feel this way? Perhaps.

But that's exactly how she felt.

The pull she had felt before, that persistent urge that had always nagged at her, now intensified into a clamoring insistence, seemingly centered solely on the creature before her.

Hinata's breath caught in her throat as that realization hit, leaving her more confused than ever.

'Wh-What...?' She mentally stammered, her thoughts scrambling.

"Miss," The creature called gently, breaking through her confusion. His voice was soft and filled with a mix of longing and concern, much like the voice she had heard earlier.

There was no doubt about it—the voice she heard before belonged to this creature.

But Luna clearly did not approve.

She tossed her head and snorted, her white mane flying as she tried to intimidate the approaching creature. Hinata gasped at her horse's hysterical reaction, struggling to maintain her grip on the reins despite the strain on her wounded arm.

Instantly, the creature came to an abrupt halt, clearly surprised by Luna's defensive outburst. It remained perfectly frozen in place, hoping not to startle the horse any further.

Cautiously, it seemed to assess the situation, its body tense, brows knitted together, and crimson slitted eyes focused warily on Luna.

Its demeanor was neither aggressive nor threatening, and Hinata watched closely as the creature seemed to project a sense of peace, now standing perfectly still.

Hinata just stared in bewilderment.

Frankly, she was struggling to wrap her head around her current situation, unable to grasp what she was witnessing or even what was happening, for that matter.

Perhaps her fall had affected her more than she thought.

She must be unwell.

The male creature tilted his head slightly, observing Hinata with an intensity that matched her own unease. Fear flickered in her lavender eyes but there was also something else—deep-seated curiosity, a fleeting recognition, and a growing sense of familiarity.

"Who... who are you?" Hinata's voice trembled, her words barely a whisper as she spoke, her gaze narrowing as she scrutinized every detail of his features.

Her eyebrows knitted together, confusion and suspicion clouding her expression.

"Wh-Why do you seem so... familiar?" She stammered, the words slipping from her lips before she could stop them. She had no idea why she asked such a strange question. It was an odd thing to say, but it had surfaced from deep within her, driven by an unexplainable sense of recognition she couldn't deny.

And the creature's reaction was anything but what she expected.

Hinata watched as he suddenly froze, his movements halting mid-step. His crimson, slitted eyes widened unnaturally, reflecting a mixture of emotions that seemed almost... human.

It sent shivers down her spine.

There was shock, confusion, and a flicker of something deeper—perhaps recognition or fear—that she couldn't quite place. It was as if her question had hit a nerve, leaving him momentarily at a loss for words, as if the familiarity she sensed unsettled him just as much as it did her.

He seemed to struggle to maintain eye contact, his gaze frequently shifting away and staring off into the distance. His mouth moved soundlessly, opening and closing as if trying to speak but unable to find the words.

What was wrong with him?

Was it because of something she said?

The creature's reaction was definitely strange—so strange that Hinata instinctively backed away along the grass, her heart racing louder in her chest.

The creature's eyes widened when he saw her move, and he urgently waved his hands, trying to reassure her.

"Don't be afraid," He said gently, reassuring her once more, "I won't harm you. I just want to help." He gestured one clawed hand towards her injured arm, where blood still trickled, staining the forest floor below.

"H-Help?" Hinata's eyes widened even more, darting towards her wound.

"How?" She turned back to the creature, who had begun approaching her once more.

His movements were cautious yet purposeful, his nine tails swaying behind him in a fluid, almost mesmerizing manner with every step he took. Each tail swayed through the air with a mighty whoosh, indicating their massive weight and strength.

His crimson eyes briefly flickered towards her tense horse, which neighed nervously as he approached.

But Hinata was quick to calm her.

"It's alright, my sweet girl. You're alright," Hinata murmured, softly stroking Luna's mane and humming quietly from her place on the grass, trying to ease her nerves. It seemed to help, at least a little. Seeing this, the creature resumed his advance, silently encouraging her to trust him.

Oddly, Hinata did.

She watched as the creature drew nearer, step by step, until he finally knelt beside her on the grass. Even in a crouch, he seemed to tower over her. But now that he was so close, Hinata could make out more of him—especially his eyes, which stood out more clearly than ever.

To her surprise, they appeared more beautiful than frightening. They didn't evoke the fear she had initially felt when she first saw them; instead, his eyes were unexpectedly...

...captivating.

Those red-slitted pools held a depth and warmth that sharply contrasted with his otherwise beastly appearance. What's more, his features gave her a feeling of déjà vu, though she couldn't quite figure out why. There was just something about the shape of his face, the intensity of his gaze, and the way he moved that tugged at the fringes of her memory.

Hinata just couldn't put her finger on what it was, but it was there, a faint echo of recognition that made her heart ache with a strange, unnameable emotion.

"May I?" He asked softly, jolting her out of her thoughts. Before Hinata could respond, he gently wrapped one clawed hand around her injured arm—her right one. His touch was surprisingly gentle, which she certainly didn't expect.

Hinata couldn't believe what she was witnessing, especially what he did next.

Slowly, he pulled the sleeve of her dress further up, revealing the entirety of her wound to him. She watched him closely, her heart steady pounding in her chest.

He glanced back at her, his blonde bangs slightly shading his gentle eyes, "Don't be alarmed, okay?" He whispered, more as a warning, one that Hinata couldn't quite understand. She tilted her head, confused, before yelping as he lowered his head and stuck his tongue out.

"Wh-What are you—!" She started to say, but before she could finish, his tongue found her arm and began to lick it, much like a cat. His warm tongue stroked her skin in a back-and-forth motion, covering her wound with his saliva thoroughly.

The beast man's actions were slow and gentle, holding her arm steady as he continued to lick it, his head swaying slightly back and forth.

Hinata sat frozen in shock as the beast man...licked her arm.

She'd expected him to help her, but this was definitely not what she had in mind. She wanted to shove him away, to yell at him for being so impudent, but then she started to notice something...

...extraordinary.

Her wounds were disappearing—even the blood.

Hinata's breath caught in her throat as she watched the jagged scratches and bruises along her right arm fade under the creature's gentle ministrations. She stared in disbelief as her torn skin knitted itself back together within milliseconds, faster than she had ever seen before.

A strange warmth spread from where his tongue made contact with her skin, a healing sensation that felt both soothing and surreal. It was as if a gentle fire was washing over her, mending not just the visible wounds but the deeper aches within her muscles as well.

Even the pain in her ribs, which had been throbbing with every breath she took, vanished.

Hinata felt an incredible lightness, as if she had never fallen in the first place.

All good as new.

When the beast man was done and finally lifted his head, Hinata's arm was completely restored, devoid of any trace of injury. He met her wide-eyed gaze with a small, relieved smile that softened his otherwise intense features.

"I... I'm sorry if I scared you," He said softly, his voice carrying a hint of vulnerability, "I just couldn't bear to see you hurt."

Hinata looked down at her now-unblemished arm, feeling the lingering warmth from his healing touch. She flexed her arm and rotated her shoulder, marveling at the complete absence of pain. She even touched her side in disbelief.

Again, no pain.

Hinata's mind was buzzing with questions, but she couldn't deny the overwhelming gratitude she felt.

No one had ever done something as gracious as what the mysterious blonde creature just did for her.

Never in her life.

She gazed up at him with a newfound warmth in her eyes, searching his face for answers she couldn't quite put into words.

"H-How did you...?" Hinata started, her voice trembling with astonishment.

"Don't worry about it, love," The beast man replied casually, shaking his head with a faint, reassuring smile.

But suddenly, he tensed up.

His orange, black tipped ears twitched at a sudden sound in the distance, and his deep crimson eyes flickered to something beyond Hinata's shoulder.

Curious, Hinata tilted her head and followed his gaze, turning to look at what had caught his attention.

It was the silhouette of her estate, bathed in the soft hues of twilight, nestled amidst the mountains.

Her home.

The beast man let out a soft hum before turning his attention back to her, "Well, as much as I'd enjoy staying and chatting, it seems your presence is needed elsewhere."

"What?" Hinata exclaimed, turning back to him with a look of clear confusion.

"You'd better head back. Your handmaidens sound pretty worried," The beast teased lightly, his sharp ears picking up distant voices calling out for her—something she had missed.

However, that was exactly the reminder she needed.

"Oh goodness me! I have to get back!" Hinata exclaimed in surprise. She glanced back toward her estate, suddenly aware of the time and the implications of her absence. It was darker than before.

She grimaced. Shoot!

Hinata tried to stand up, but before she could, the beast man beat her to it. He gently reached out and took hold of her waist, lifting her effortlessly as if she weighed nothing.

And even now, his touch remained tender, holding her carefully to ensure his claws didn't snag her in any way.

The abrupt feeling of being lifted off the ground took Hinata by surprise, and she couldn't help but let out a small gasp. The night breeze brushed against her face at a quicker speed in that very instant, causing her dress and cloak to ripple around her.

Shock.

Amazement.

Her heart raced as she struggled to process her emotions.

It was surprising to be lifted so quickly, so effortlessly. The warmth of the creature's hands around her waist was unexpected but strangely...comforting.

And despite her initial shock, Hinata felt a peculiar sense of safety, cradled in his strong yet gentle grip.

Again, what was wrong with her?

In a flash, Hinata went from huddling on the grass to being back on her horse. The beast man carefully positioned her in the saddle, securing her with ease, as if he had done this many times before.

However, the creature's close presence startled Luna momentarily, causing the horse to sidestep nervously.

Though jostled, Hinata quickly set about calming Luna again, rubbing her softly along the back and whispering reassurances to her ears. Her soothing voice was a gentle murmur that gradually eased the horse's nerves—just what she needed.

"There, there. It's alright, Luna," Hinata cooed softly, her hand running soothingly along the horse's neck. Luna gradually settled, her breaths steadying in response to Hinata's comforting touch.

Hinata smiled warmly, feeling relieved, yet she couldn't overlook the fatigue evident in Luna's body. It was clear the horse needed rest; she had gone through enough for today.

They both had.

Once Hinata was secure and Luna had finally settled, the beast man took a step back, his posture relaxing. He seemed relieved as he looked up at her, a soft smile gracing his whiskered face.

Back on her horse, Hinata grabbed the reins again, but not before glancing down at her healed arm, still marveling at how quickly it had recovered.

"Thank you," She said with a warm smile, turning back to him, "I'm really grateful for what you've done for me. But now, I find myself curious to know my savior's name..." She trailed off, her eyes searching the beast man's crimson ones, silently urging him to share his name.

The beast man's smile seemed to grow wider.

"Oh, it's Naruto," He said quickly, with a nod.

Her heart fluttered at the sound of his name, a warmth spreading through her chest. She couldn't help but smile, big and wide.

"Oh yes, Naruto. Such a handsome name—"

"And yours?" Naruto perked up, a spark of interest brightening his eyes, "I must know your name in case you get into any trouble and I have to come to your aid again." He chuckled, leaning forward, "I need to know who to call out," He teased, a hint of a smile playing on his lips.

Hinata giggled at his teasing.

"Why, aren't you a charmer," She teased back, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "It's Hinata. Hinata Hyuga the Second." She grimaced slightly, her expression softening, "But that's far too formal—just Hinata will do."

Naruto's smile widened at her response, "W-Well, Hinata it is, then," He said warmly, the name rolling off his tongue with a sense of familiarity.

He let out a soft hum, tilting his head playfully. He even placed his clawed hands on his hips, "Now, Hinata-san, I want you to be careful from now on. Don't want you falling like that again."

"Oh, I can't promise that, Naruto-san," Hinata giggled, her eyes lighting up as she saw him laugh too, finally revealing the canine teeth he had been trying so hard to hide.

But she saw his sharp teeth.

She saw it.

Hinata smiled as the breeze blew through her hair, causing it to flutter about. She found herself marveling at the beast below her—he was an interesting fellow—and she was surprised by how comfortable she felt in his presence.

She never felt this comfort with anyone before.

Despite the unusual circumstances, despite how they met, and despite the fact that he was a beast she hadn't known existed until today, she felt at ease. She had never imagined a creature like Naruto living and breathing in the forest she loved so much.

It was such a wonderful discovery, and a small part of her wanted to stay just a bit longer.

But she knew she couldn't.

Hinata let out a sorrowful sigh, before turning back to Naruto.

She gave him another warm smile, then surprised him by expressing her gratitude physically.

Hinata reached out and gently patted his head, her fingers lightly gliding through his blonde hair. The touch was tender, almost delicate, as she ran her fingers through the softness of his bushy locks.

She saw Naruto immediately freeze mid-laugh at her unexpected touch, clearly taken aback by her affection. His ears twitched, and all nine of his tails began to wag faster, swishing around with excitement. He even let out a soft purr, a warm, pleasant rumble emanating from deep within his chest.

Hinata could feel the vibrations of his purring through her hand as she stroked through his spiky blonde hair. She kept a close watch on him, observing as he closed his eyes briefly, just savoring her gentle touch, a look of pure contentment spreading across his whiskered face.

Hinata awed, blushing. So adorable.

She didn't know why she had petted him, only that she felt he needed it.

Needed the touch.

Needed the comfort.

Needed the affection.

It was purely instinct.

Hinata hummed, "Thank you once again for helping me, Naruto-san," She said softly. "I truly hope we see one another again."

"Y-Y-You're welcome," Naruto said, his voice barely above a whisper as his eyes fluttered back open.

"I-I hope so too, Hinata-san," Naruto said, his voice soft.

Hinata smiled warmly.

She then gently withdrew her hand from his head and reached for the reins once more.

There was a brief, hesitant pause as Naruto's eyes locked onto hers again. This time, his expression was different—serious, but with a hint of pleading that made her freeze in place.

"Hinata-san," He said, his voice low and earnest, "there's something I need you to promise me."

Her brow knitted in confusion, but she nodded, signaling him to go on. She was a bit taken aback, caught off guard by the gravity of his request.

"Please," Naruto pleaded, "promise me you won't tell anyone about our meeting tonight.

He paused, "About me."

Hinata's expression softened immediately by his request.

Without a moment's hesitation, she gave a reassuring nod, "I promise, Naruto-san. I won't tell anyone about you. You have my word."

Naruto's eyes softened with relief, and a small, grateful smile spread across his lips.

'Thank you, Hinata-san. I really appreciate it."

Hinata gave him one last warm smile before setting off.

With an encouraging "yah," she urged her horse forward into a gallop. The large animal quickly gained speed, its powerful hooves thundering against the ground as they raced away.

The wind whipped through Hinata's hair and the hem of her cloak as they sped away, leaving nothing but a cloud of dust in their wake.

But as she rode back home, Hinata found herself unable to stop thinking about Naruto the whole journey. The image of his gentle smile, the sound of his voice, and his act of healing her stayed with her.

Deep in her heart.

She couldn't help but glance back one last time, catching a glimpse of him standing there in the dusk light, longingly watching her disappear into the distance.

She smiled before turning back around, clutching the reins tighter.

Now it seemed the pull had returned.

She felt it again.

But this time, it wasn't toward the forest—it was toward him.

Naruto. 

●・○・●・○・●

End Of Part 1