Chapter 16: Chapter 15:[Training together l]
The weeks that followed saw Hinata becoming a regular presence in Naruto's training sessions. Though she was shy and hesitant at first, her resolve to improve gradually shone through.
Naruto was impressed by her potential, especially her precise chakra control and the fluid movements of the Gentle Fist.
Despite her soft demeanor, her strikes carried surprising precision, and her Byakugan gave her a significant edge in reading movements and anticipating attacks.
"Your timing's getting better," Naruto remarked one afternoon as they paused for a break. His tone was warm but thoughtful, as if analyzing her progress.
"You're starting to predict where I'll move based on my muscles before I even act . That's something you should focus on—it's one of the biggest strengths of the Byakugan."
Hinata blushed but nodded, her confidence growing with his encouragement. "Th-thank you, Naruto-kun. But… you're so fast. It's still hard to keep up."
Naruto grinned, summoning one of his golden chakra chains. "That's because I don't hold back. If I went easy on you, it wouldn't help either of us. But don't worry—you're improving every time we spar."
Hinata's cheeks flushed at his words, her heart racing. "I'll keep working hard. I won't let you down."
"You're not letting anyone down," Naruto replied with a reassuring smile. "You've got more potential than most people in the Academy, Hinata. You just need to trust yourself more. You're stronger than you think."
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Training with Hinata became a routine, and Naruto quickly grew to appreciate her quiet determination. While his own approach to training was intense and relentless, he admired how she balanced her persistence with patience and grace.
At times, he would pause their sessions to share insights, explaining how she could refine her techniques or use her Byakugan in new ways. Hinata, in turn, found herself captivated by his deep understanding of combat and strategy.
"Why do you know so much about all of this?" she asked one evening as they sat under a tree after a particularly grueling session.
Naruto leaned back, his eyes scanning the stars above. "I guess… I've had to figure things out on my own for a long time. The Academy doesn't really teach you everything you need to know. And I can't afford to fall behind, you know?"
Hinata listened quietly, her admiration for him growing. "You're really amazing, Naruto-kun. I… I don't think I've ever met anyone like you."
Naruto chuckled, glancing at her. "You're pretty amazing yourself, Hinata. Not many people would stick with me through all this crazy training. Most of the kids at the Academy wouldn't even try."
Hinata's face lit up with a shy smile, but Naruto wasn't finished. "I mean it. You've got something special. You just need to stop holding yourself back. If you can do that, I know you'll be unstoppable."
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As their training continued, Hinata's growth became undeniable. Her strikes were sharper, her movements more confident, and her stamina improved dramatically. Naruto often took the time to highlight her progress, encouraging her to push herself further.
"Nice hit!" Naruto said one afternoon as Hinata landed a perfect strike on his shoulder. He stepped back, shaking out his arm. "Your aim's improving. You're not just hitting where you think I'll be—you're controlling the fight now."
Hinata's eyes widened slightly. "You… really think so?"
"I know so," Naruto replied, his grin as bright as ever. "And if you keep this up, you'll be giving everyone a run for their money in no time."
His words filled her with a sense of pride and determination. Naruto wasn't just a teacher or a training partner—he was someone who believed in her, someone who saw her not for her weaknesses but for her potential.
"Thank you, Naruto-kun," Hinata said softly, her voice steady. "I'll keep working hard. I won't stop until I'm strong enough to stand by your side."
Naruto's grin softened into a warm smile. "You already are, Hinata. But let's keep getting stronger together."
In that moment, the bond between them grew stronger, built on trust, mutual respect, and an unspoken promise to push each other toward greatness.
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Author's notes.
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