Admit it—Naruto's heart really did skip a beat.
Marry several wives?
Honestly, it's pointless.
If I ever decide to become emperor, I can simply wipe out the other villages later and unify the entire Ninja World by force.
What kind of emperor hides in a corner?
There are so many countries in the world, yet even the largest, the Land of Wind, can be crossed in less than a week at full speed by a single Chunin.
"Princess Fuun, you're teasing,"
Naruto said with a grin as he looked at Fuka Yukiyuki.
"Let's treat that as a joke—don't mention it again once you leave this room."
"How boring…"
Fuka Yukiyuki drew out her tone, disappointment at her failed plan mixing with the frustration of being seen through.
She'd been suffocating in the Land of Snow lately; those old retainers lectured her daily about the dignity of a daimyo. Only with Naruto, her friend, could she relax a little.
She tilted sideways and flopped onto the couch without a care for appearances, one hand across her forehead in theatrical despair.
"Anyway, Konoha Village is hosting the Joint Chunin Exams these days.
Starting tomorrow I'll be away for a long stretch. If you've no other business, you'd best leave the village soon.
The Land of Snow is still rebuilding; it can't do without its daimyo, can it?"
Orochimaru is about to launch the Konoha Crush Plan; the village will be dangerous.
"Between San Tayu and the others, I'm basically just a mascot over there,"
Though San Tayu looks a bit dim, he served Fuka Sozen and is quite capable in administration.
Most importantly, he's utterly loyal—there's no doubting his devotion.
Leaving the country in San Tayu's hands puts Fuka Yukiyuki at ease.
Even if San Tayu wanted to usurp the throne, with her currently in Konoha, Snow's defenses couldn't stop Konoha's Ninja.
"Then take this."
Naruto fished a Kunai from his ninja tool pouch, walked into the bedroom, returned with a sheet of paper, and folded it into a paper crane.
"If you're ever in danger, tear the crane; I'll sense your location."
Both items bore a Flying Thunder God Mark, and the paper carried a tracking seal.
Once the crane is torn the seal vanishes, alerting Naruto instantly.
After all, the two of them are friends.
When chaos erupts, sending a Shadow Clone to protect Fuka Yukiyuki is no trouble at all.
"I'll keep it, then."
Fuka Yukiyuki's eyes brightened and the corners of her mouth lifted.
She reached out with her slender pale hand, first taking the standard Kunai—identical to any other save for the small Uzumaki swirl stamped on it.
The cool metal against her fingertips stirred a thought.
In noble tradition, gifting a Sharp Weapon can imply "severance," "warning," or even "threat"; it's hardly auspicious.
She mused: 'Naruto's an orphan; he's simply worried about me and gave the most direct tool he trusts.'
The realization warmed her heart rather than offending her.
That he cares enough to ensure her safety is precious in itself.
Next she carefully accepted the little paper crane folded from crisp white paper.
The crane was delicate, every crease along its wings and tail sharp and clean.
Seeing it, her smile deepened and her eyes sparkled.
'And there's the crane, full of good meaning!'
she cheered inside.
Paper cranes symbolize blessings, wishes, safety, and hope.
Naruto gave her one and told her to tear it in danger—his concern and protection couldn't be clearer.
The Kunai offered practical protection; the crane carried warm wishes and an emergency link.
Simple as they were, the gifts were thoughtful and full of care.
She tucked the Kunai into a hidden inner pocket of her coat, ensuring it was secure against her body.
Then she drew out a tiny silk pouch, gently placed the paper crane inside, and kept it close as well.
Done, she looked up at Naruto, her smile bright and sincere, free of earlier mischief, filled instead with gratitude and warmth:
"Thank you for the gifts, Naruto. I'll treasure them."
She patted the spots where they now rested. "Still, I hope I never need to use them."
Naruto smiled at her earnestness. "Best if you don't—but better prepared than sorry."
"Mm!"
Fuka Yukiyuki nodded firmly.
Karin, watching from the side, remained slightly wary of the princess, yet she could tell Naruto's concern was purely friendly.
The tiny prick of jealousy in her heart eased a little.
Just then—
"Big brother Naruto!"
A bright, lively child's voice rang out as a key turned in the lock, shattering the cozy quiet.
The door sprang open and a small figure bounded in like a frisky deer.
It was Hyuga Hanabi!
Her face beamed; she hoisted a big bag of fresh, dewy vegetables—clearly just back from market.
"My sister, Brother Neji, and I came to eat at your place!"
she announced loudly.
Behind her, two more figures appeared.
Hyuga Hinata followed, clutching two large bags of snacks, cheeks pink, eyes lowered shyly yet sparkling with anticipation.
Last came Hyuga Neji.
He too carried two bulging bags—fresh meat by the look of them.
His expression was calm, but the moment his pale eyes swept the room they locked onto Naruto.
Ever since accepting his uncle's family, Neji—like Hiashi—had grown wary of Naruto.
My cute little sister will not be fooled by this blond brat!
Look at him—surrounded by beauties!
No, the innocent Hinata mustn't fall for this yellow-haired trickster!
"Wow! It's Princess Fuun!"
Hanabi set the vegetables on the table, eyes shining as she gazed at Fuka Yukiyuki.
"Can I have your autograph?"