Chapter 1: Introduction
A sigh escaped Hinata's lips as she slipped through the desolate streets of the village, her hips swaying silently with each silent step. Everywhere she turned, there was despair, destruction, and destitution, the entirety of Nami village appearing as though it had been drained of the life it had once clung to. With Gato's stranglehold on the village squeezing tighter and tighter, hope seemed like but a distant memory.
But within the dark caverns of Hinata's heart, a feeble spark yet remained, fueled by her undying love for her dearest Naruto. She desired nothing more than his victory, even if it meant burning her own flame to ignite their path.
*~*~*
In the midst of the destruction, Hinata's silhouette skulked closer to an unassuming abandoned building. Through the crack in a shattered window, a shadowy figure was barely visible.