Chapter 01 - (FF Naruto) Tiyara Namikaze Story

001 - The quiet warning

After a few days, we were standing once again in Hiruzen's office. The air was serious, and I could feel it the moment we entered. The Hokage looked up from the scrolls, his hands resting calmly on the desk, but his gaze was firm. Minato stood beside him, arms crossed, his expression thoughtful. I stepped closer, my fingers automatically brushing my hip pouch, as if I needed to reassure myself that everything was in its place. Kakashi stood to my left, his gaze fixed on the mission document Hiruzen was unrolling.

"This mission concerns the border area near the Land of Earth," the Hokage began. "An enemy unit of Iwagakure shinobi has settled there. They repeatedly attack our supply lines. It's urgent." He paused. "You will secure the route and, if possible, eliminate the enemy position. Any information you gather along the way could be crucial for the next steps."

Obito crossed his arms, trying to appear confident. "Sounds doable." Rin nodded slightly, but I could feel her tension. I looked at Kakashi. He remained silent, yet his posture was straight—almost too calm. One of those missions. Where one mistake can change everything. I knew it. And he knew it too. Minato stepped forward. "I won't be accompanying you. I've been called away; another location needs me on short notice. You are strong enough. And..." he looked at me, "...you will take command if things get serious. Understood, Tiyara?"

I swallowed. "Understood." I felt Kakashi's gaze shift to me. I know she can do this. But if something goes wrong—I can't... I can't lose her. I looked at him. "Kakashi...?" — "Nothing. We'll do this." His voice sounded calm, but I heard it differently. And I saw it in his eyes.

Hiruzen leaned forward slightly. "This mission is not like the previous ones. There are indications that the enemy is working with seals. Especially you, Tiyara—you should be careful. Your chakra is of significance to them. They don't yet know what you truly are. But that could change quickly." I nodded seriously, my heart beating faster. Not another mission like this... not another fight that takes more than it gives.

Obito snorted. "Let them come. We're ready." Rin looked at him worriedly. Kakashi said quietly, "Don't speak too soon, Obito." I shot him a brief glance. You always sound so cool. But I know you're afraid. I am too. But I only said, "Then we'll prepare."

As we left the office, Kakashi fell back slightly. I stopped as well, letting Rin and Obito go ahead. "You're thinking about something," I said softly. — He looked at me. "I'm thinking... about everything." Then he turned his gaze away. I don't know why this feeling has become so loud. But if I can't protect her this time... I wouldn't know what would be left of me. I stepped closer. "Kakashi. Whatever comes—we'll get through it. Together." — He looked at me again. Completely calm. And then he nodded. But deep inside him was that thought: Please... not her. Anything, but not her.

We stood before the great gate of Konoha. The sky was overcast—not threatening, but serious—just like we were inside. The guards greeted us briefly, but my gaze was on Minato, who stepped slightly away from the others and moved a few steps to the side with me. I could feel that he wanted to say something—something not meant for all ears. His blue eyes rested calmly on me, like they used to when I was very small and believed my big brother would always know everything.

"Tiyara..." he began gently, but seriously, "I know you are stronger than many others. You became a Jonin because you earned it—not because you had any advantage through me." I wanted to say something, but he raised his hand slightly. "But it's also my right to worry. I see you standing there, in your attire, with your forehead mark, with that determination... and yet I still see you as the girl who used to lie in my bed at night with a lightning mark on her forehead, wanting me to tell her stories."

I smiled faintly, but didn't quite look up. My gaze fell to the ground, so familiar and yet seeming as though it would lead into another world today.