Ruka Hiden : Tangled Paths, Love's Redemption

Thirty-One

The sun was setting, casting a golden hue over Konoha as Ruka and Kiba wandered through the lively market, enjoying their time together. The air was filled with the chatter of vendors and the scent of street food.

As they rounded a corner, they came upon Mamoru Hozuki, Kiba's colleague and occasional rival, leaning casually against a stall. His eyes narrowed with mischief upon spotting them.

"Well, well, if it isn't Kiba with his prized girlfriend," Mamoru called out, a smirk playing on his lips. "I didn't think someone like Ruka would settle for someone like you. Must be a real challenge for her."

Kiba's face darkened, and he clenched his fists, visibly trying to control his anger. "What's your deal, Hozuki?"

Mamoru's grin widened, clearly enjoying the tension. "Just having a bit of fun. I mean, you've always been the less impressive guy. Having Ruka as your girlfriend must be hard for you, right? She's way out of your league."

Before Kiba could respond, Ruka stepped forward, her eyes blazing with intensity. Without a word, she threw a punch—swift and powerful, channeling the strength she'd inherited from her aunt Tsunade. Her fist connected with Mamoru's jaw with a resounding thud.

The impact was immediate and decisive. Mamoru's eyes widened in shock, and he crumpled to the ground, unconscious. The stall he had been leaning against shook from the force of the blow, and people nearby stared in stunned silence.

Ruka stood over him, her expression fierce but composed. She turned to Kiba, her eyes softening as she reached out to him.

"Kiba, no one gets to talk about you like that. Not while I'm around."

Kiba, taken aback by the sheer force of Ruka's punch, looked at her with a mixture of awe and pride. He had always known she was strong, but seeing her stand up for him so decisively made his heart swell.

"Ruka, I... I didn't expect you to—" Kiba began, but Ruka cut him off with a reassuring smile.

"I meant every word. You're amazing, and you deserve to be treated with respect. No one's going to belittle you, not even for a second."

Kiba's pride was evident as he looked at her, a warm smile spreading across his face. "My girlfriend is so cool"

As they walked away from the scene, hand in hand, the market resumed its lively buzz, the drama of the moment quickly fading into the background.

-
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The late afternoon sun bathed the Hokage's office in a warm glow as Kakashi sat behind his desk, flipping through a stack of paperwork. The door creaked open, and Ruka stepped inside, her expression curious.

"Hey, Kakashi," she greeted, her tone light. "You wanted to see me?"

Kakashi looked up, his usual mask of aloofness replaced by a serious but friendly demeanor. "Ah, Ruka. Thanks for coming. I have something important to discuss with you."

Ruka settled into a chair across from him, her interest piqued. "What's up?"

Kakashi took a deep breath. "I've been thinking a lot about the future lately. I've decided to retire as Hokage. And I want you to be my successor."

Ruka blinked in surprise, processing the gravity of his words. "Me? But... what about Naruto?"

Kakashi leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Naruto's still young, and while he has great potential, I don't think he's quite ready to handle the responsibilities of Hokage just yet. I believe you're the right person to lead the village now."

Ruka's mind raced, considering the weight of the responsibility and the implications of Kakashi's decision. "That's a huge honor, Kakashi. I don't know what to say."

Kakashi smiled softly, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "You don't have to decide immediately. Take your time to think it over. But I trust you to make the right choice for the village."

"I appreciate that," Ruka replied, nodding thoughtfully. "I'll definitely consider it seriously."

Later that evening, Ruka met up with Kiba at their favorite spot by the village's central park. Kiba was leaning against a tree, waiting for her, his face lighting up when he saw her approaching.

"Hey, Ruka!" he called out, his voice full of enthusiasm. "How'd it go with Kakashi?"

Ruka smiled, a little nervous but mostly excited. "He told me he's planning to retire and wants me to be the next Hokage. He thinks Naruto isn't quite ready yet."

Kiba's eyes widened, and a broad grin spread across his face. "No way! That's amazing, Ruka! I can't wait to tell everyone that my girlfriend is going to be Hokage!"

Ruka chuckled, feeling a surge of relief at Kiba's reaction. "Well, I haven't said yes yet. I need to think it through."

Kiba waved his hand dismissively. "You'll be great at it. I know it! Plus, just think about all the cool stuff we can do once you're Hokage."

Ruka laughed, feeling a warm rush of affection for Kiba's unfiltered excitement. "I'll keep that in mind. But there's a lot of responsibility involved. It's not just about the title."

Kiba placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "I know, but I believe in you. And hey, if anyone can handle it, it's you."

Ruka's smile softened as she looked at Kiba. "Thanks, Kiba. Your support means the world to me."

As they walked hand in hand through the park, Ruka felt a renewed sense of purpose. The path ahead was uncertain, but with Kiba by her side and the trust of her village, she felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

The evening breeze rustled the leaves around them, carrying the promise of a new chapter in Ruka's life—one that was filled with hope, love, and the unwavering support of those who mattered most.