Hi guys I'm back with another Naruto story, this time with a crack pairing that I've grown fond of which is Ibiki/Neji. I love Neji and I love Ibiki, but I never thought to put them together after stumbling on a couple of fics about these two on and another site I found after using google. I'm always looking for ways to go out of my comfort zone as a writer. I figured writing an Ibiki/Neji story would be a good way for me to do that. I hope I didn't make Neji too sad or emo or OOC. I think I did a pretty good job from keeping him a brooding Sasuke. Now I only made Hiashi pretty mean for the story I think he can change, but it's necessary for the story. I hope I didn't make Ibiki too OOC either. Now before we begin I don't own Naruto or any of the characters.
"blah"- talking
Blah- thoughts
Now let's begin ^^
Naruto
Therapy
Chapter 1
Neji stormed from the Hyuuga compound in an angry rage. Everyone knew not to get in his way or someone would be killed. He wasn't joking this time either anyone who got in his way would be dealt with in the most violent way he could think of. He didn't know what he did wrong, but apparently it pissed off Hiashi something fierce. Hiashi was doing better with everyone, but that changed the minute his wife became sick. Now Hiashi was on the war path. If he saw one imperfection he would go off. It was enough to drive everyone crazy.
Hinata left the house ages ago. She was now living with Kurenai-sensei and her baby boy Asuma jr. Hanabi was next in line. After Hiashi tried telling her that no one would know her better than he would she couldn't take it anymore. She was now living with Moegi. They became close during the academy and were now the best of friends. Now that he ran out both Hinata and Hanabi Neji knew it was his turn. He's faced insults and comments before, but these stung more than usual. Neji grit his teeth as he stormed through Konoha.
I am weak. I am worthless. I will never become what Hiashi wants me to become. I understand what Hinata means now. The fact that you'll never become what someone wants you to become no matter how hard you try. I do not know what I can do anymore to please that man. He's run away his daughters and knew I would be next, but to get angry at me just because he smells something in my room. It's probably the smell of his wife's impending end stuck in his nose. I can't believe him.
Neji pushed back the tears that he's held back since the day his father died. He knew it wasn't healthy, but what could he do? Tsunade has told him tons of times to let it out, but crying was out of the question. With the person he made himself to be he couldn't just cry like Naruto. He couldn't go around letting everyone know his feelings like Kiba. He couldn't secretly hide any pain he had behind a high collar like Shino. He couldn't just play Shogi or Go like Shikamaru or eat his troubles away like Chouji. He didn't have anyone to confide in like Gaara who had his siblings to talk too whenever things became too much. He wasn't like Lee. If something was bothering him he could talk to Gai-sensei. Hinata has Kurenai-sensei to tell her worries to.
Ino would go drinking with Sakura whenever she had any problems. Or she would spend hours in the greenhouse arranging flowers with Sakura. Sakura would either talk to Ino, Tsunade, or Shizune if she was having trouble. TenTen would spend hours polishing and sharpening her weapons. Plus she would go to Tsunade or Anko is she was having trouble. She became friends with the Snake nin after a mission one day. Ever since that mission they've been the best of friends. Kankuro had Kiba to vent to and his siblings. Temari had Shikamaru, her brothers, and the girls of Konoha to talk to.
Everyone has someone to vent to, but me. I have no one. I can't just vent to either TenTen or Lee. They're probably out right now enjoying themselves. Gai-sensei is out of the question. Hinata is gone as well as Hanabi so I just can't talk to them. They're still shaken up especially Hinata. I can't go talk to Naruto because he's with Gaara right now. It wouldn't be right for me to interfere into their private time. Shikamaru is with Temari and Kiba is with Kankuro. Chouji is talking to Sai which is something very new, but still he has someone to talk to. Everyone has someone to talk to, but me.
Neji felt the tears come back again at the thoughts running through his mind. He could feel his blood boil at the memories of Hiashi and other servants tearing his room apart to find the offending smell. They wanted him to throw out his books, his journals, his scrolls, anything that caused him pleasure Hiashi wanted to throw it out. He could see Hiashi's smug look as servant after servant tore apart his little room. He couldn't protest what could he say? If he said anything Hiashi would activate the seal on his forehead and he would be nothing, but a convulsing mess.
What's worse is the elder coming in his room putting in his two cents. He started giving Neji a lecture about how it was unsanitary to live in the way he was living.
Well excuse me for leaving so many times out of the year to protect the village. I'm such a horrible person because of that.
He started talking about how if Tsunade and the medical crew needed to get to him they wouldn't because of Neji's room.
Of course my room would be the cause of all that. Of course I would be the reason why he would die.
Then he started telling Neji that he had to clean himself because he was a Hyuuga. Even though he was part of the house branch he was still a Hyuuga.
Of course I'm not clean besides the fact that I wash my hair more than the average man and takes about two to three baths everytime I come home from a mission it's a perfect reason to believe that I'm not clean.
Then he started to lecture him about being in good health when he's sick himself.
Of course lecture me about being in good health when you're in bad health yourself. It's so fucking stupid.
Neji was so angry that he started shaking with pure rage coursing through his veins. He had so many images of killing Hiashi and the elder whatever the hell his name was. He could literally see their blood on the doors, the floor, his sheets, and his hands. The bad thing was he enjoyed those images. He enjoyed seeing Hiashi beg for him life as Neji slit his throat watching the blood spill on the kunai blade and fall on his white robes. He would then turn to the elder. He would only end his suffering since he told Hinata and Hanabi, since they were kids that he was dying.
He remembers many nights where he's held Hinata and Hanabi because they were so distraught at the thought of their grandfather leaving them. The line worked when they were younger. Now that Neji and Hinata were in their twenties and Hanabi was a teenager it didn't work anymore.
Neji actually waited for the day when someone from the branch house delivered the news of his death. He knew that was bad to wait for, but he couldn't help it. He was so frazzled with Hiashi outlandish requests. He was so tired of watching his mother wash plate after plate over and over again. It made him sick thinking about the number of times his mother has changed the sheets of his aunt's bed. The amount of sponge baths she's given her. The times he had to accompany her to the pharmacy in the rain or snow to get the medicine his aunt needed. No one cared about his mother or her well being. No one came to her need when the news of his father's death was delivered. No one ever helped because he was part of the branch house.
He spat in anger at the thought of his limitations because he was in the branch house. It always angered him, but now he was seeing red. If he didn't leave after cleaning and dusting his room blood would have been shed. He would be arrested, but he would smile with a smug sense of satisfaction.
He didn't notice where he was going. He could see worries in the eyes of his friends and colleagues as he stormed by. He saw Naruto trying to walk over him, but Gaara stopped him. He whispered something in Naruto's ear helping him calm down. Neji didn't care. He didn't care about anything at the moment. The only thing he cared about was getting as far away as he could from the branch house.
I'm such a horrible person. I'm nothing more, but a slave. A pawn in someone's twisted chess game called life. I fuckin hate this. I hate this.
He was tired of the looks of disdain and hate from the main house members. He grew annoyed with the jealous looks from different guys in Konoha because most of the girls wanted to bang him. He grew tired of the looks from girls too. Who felt he was changing their men. Many times he's asked Hinata would life be easier if he wasn't around. She would reassure him that it wouldn't be easier. He could remember her words clear as day…
Without you me and Hanabi would have to face them by ourselves. We're strong, but not that strong Neji. I'm sure I would have killed myself a long time ago if it wasn't for you. Hanabi would have gotten pregnant too if you didn't talk to her. Your talk about finding the right guy for her really helped. You help out a lot more than you think.
At least Hinata and Hanabi still care if I'm around. Naruto and the others do too, but they all have someone for them. Naruto has Gaara, Hinata has Shino, Kankuro has Kiba, and even Anko has Sai. Man no one saw that coming, but it happened. Me on the other hand has no one. Who would even want someone like me?
Neji pushed his tears further back as he continued his internal storm. He hated that he had to keep pushing his tears further back into his emotional dam. He only found peace outside of the Hyuuga compound. He only found peace when he was training pushing his body to it's limits and beyond. That's the only time he felt serene. While thinking about training that's when an idea hit him.
The forest!
He could go to the forest and train until morning or until he got rid of this bloodlust inside him. Now that he had a destination he started to make a bee line towards the forest. Not knowing what was waiting for him, rather who was waiting for him.
*~*~*~*
Ibiki was in the middle of his training regime in the forest. His muscles covered with a light sheen of sweat as he punched the tree harder with his fists. Even though he was an expert in dealings of the mind keeping his body in shape was just as important. Besides after the day he had he needed this workout. First he spent about eight hours with a cocky rouge shinobi from a small town in the outskirts of Konoha. He started his own radical group in the small town and had plans to take it further. Ibiki had to admit the plan was pretty good. Start small riots around the surrounding areas until they carried on to Konoha. From there it would grow into something beyond their control.
They had it made until Izumo and Kotetsu betrayed them that is. They had no idea that Izumo and Kotetsu was working undercover to figure out what was happening and to get more information on the leader. After working their way up the ranks they became the radical leader's two right hand men. They had it in the bag until Izumo and Kotetsu started making out and the leader happened to walk in on them. That's when he knew something was up and their sneaking mission became a violent one. That's when Ibiki and their team had to jump in to help them out.
If they didn't jump in when they did Izumo and Kotetsu would've been captured. That would cause a whole other level of unwanted stress for Ibiki.
Ibiki sighed, If those two could keep their hands off of each other for at least five minutes. They're like two dogs in heat.
Even with that blunder they were still able to complete the mission. Ibiki found out the leader's name is Shoji. He was here to exact his revenge on the hidden villages for destroying his small village during one of the Great Ninja Wars. His first target was Konoha. He knew of Konoha's allegiance to Suna. He was going to use that to strengthen his little radical army. There were many different radical groups around Suna. They would have accepted his group easily and their power would grow. It was a good thing they were able to stop it when it was manageable, before it became something that would cause tension between Suna and Konoha again.
We do not need that again. Though I don't think we'll have to worry about Suna and Konoha not getting along. Naruto will make sure that Gaara is happy for a long time. Ibiki thought giving a little smile at Naruto and Gaara. They really had grown closer these past couple of years. Ibiki didn't show it, but he was happy Naruto found someone.
Gaara is way better than that Uchiha boy. He caused Naruto nothing but stress. Hell he caused this village nothing, but stress. Ibiki thought feeling another headache coming on.
After taking care of Shoji he then had to get Anko out of hot water again for the umpteenth time. She got into another fight with the elders. This time throwing something at the elder Koharu Utatane because she told Anko that she should be locked up and never see the light of day. That didn't sound good to Anko especially coming home from an S-rank mission that she nearly died from. He had to calm Anko down then convince Utatane-sama not to press charges. Once she was out of hot water and safely back with Sai he breathed a sigh of relief.
After getting Anko out of trouble he then had two more people to interrogate. First a cocky rock nin that was caught trying to sneak into the village. Then a dimwitted kunoichi who thought she could seduce Ibiki as a way to get out of her punishment. After Ibiki flipped the script and used her own technique against her he had her talking in no time. Not to mention gasping for breath, but it had to be done. Even though he had that little appetizer he still wasn't satisfied, but he had to push that aside. Because after his interrogation he had to help Kakashi calm down an enraged Iruka. Apparently he told one of their closest friends one of their bedroom secrets and Iruka was fuming to say the least.
After calming Iruka down and helping him go home with Kakashi he thought he would be done, but he was wrong. He had to go help Hinata by dinner for Kurenai and Asuma jr. Then he had to take a report from Inoichi to Shikaku. After delivering a report to Kankuro he called it a night, but he was still restless after eating dinner. He decided to go to the forest and get some well deserved training done.
Ibiki rest his fists against the tree panting deeply. He's sure it was well over midnight, but he didn't care. His day off was tomorrow so he could sleep in for the first time in four months. He didn't expect to feel another chakra enter the forest. He hoped Genma was sleep for once. He didn't feel like carrying an exhausted Genma back to a worried Raidou. He looked over from his tree noticing Neji storm in. Ibiki noticed that his chakra was off. The usual control was gone now replaced with wild waves of chakra. It bounced off the trees and the ground around him as he got into stance.
Neji took a breath, "KAITEN!" He started spinning feeling the familiar pulse of his chakra inside his body as the world whirled around him. He could feel his anger starting to leave him with every turn. With every spin, with every yell he could feel the familiar pleasure that comes from training.
"KAITEN!" Neji yelled again spinning harder and harder kicking the ground up around him.
Ibiki watched from the shadows noticing the angry whip of his chakra as Neji continued doing Kaiten. He's never seen the Hyuuga boy so angry before. He's never seen his moves done with such killing intent before.
What's made Neji so angry? I've never seen him like this before. Ibiki thought watching as Neji stopped spinning. Neji gripped his hair he started mumbling to himself. The words unclear to Ibiki until Neji started shouting.
"SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP HIASHI! I AM STRONG! I'M NOT WORTHLESS!" Neji yelled running towards a tree, "HAKE KUSHO! EIGHT PALMS!" He started attacking the tree trying to make the sneers from Hiashi and the elder go away. He could still hear them and it angered him further.
Ibiki continued to watch. He's never seen Neji so uncontrolled, so unraveled before. Seeing the wild fury go through him made Ibiki's blood start to rise. He's always thought Neji was attractive, but to see him now with unleashed anger going through his veins as his hair flew around him was hotter than anything Ibiki could have thought of. He watched as Neji's headband fell off as he shouted, "HAKKE HYAKU NIJUHACHI SHO! TWENTY EIGHT PALMS!" He hit the tree harder and harder hearing the tree creak under him, but he didn't care. He just wanted to get rid of the voices in his head. The worthless feeling he felt as he just watched Hiashi with that smug look on his face.
Neji growled making a jolt go through Ibiki. He didn't know when he started noticing the Hyuuga Nin, but the minute he did he couldn't stop. Whenever Neji walked in the office or into his office he couldn't help, but sneak a look at him. The pale flawless skin, the determined set to his jaw, his hair that grew longer over the years, and those firm muscles hidden underneath his robes was enough to fuel many a daydream for Ibiki. He was never a man to hide behind the shadows and watch the object of his desires from afar, but with Neji he found himself doing it everytime. Ibiki liked to watch Neji walk with the elegance and power he possessed. It was a nice change watching Neji instead of watching Anko and making sure she didn't cause any trouble.
He shook his head at the thought of the over active kunoichi as he turned his attention back to Neji.
Neji took a breath, "HAKKE ROKUJUYON SHO! SIXTY FOUR PALMS!" He started pounding against the tree harder. He could feel his palms start to ache under the force of his attacks, but that didn't faze him. He couldn't feel it he just kept working through his frustration. He took another breath stepping back as he charged towards the tree again, "HAKKE HYAKU NIJUHACHI SHO! ONE HUNDRED TWENTY EIGHT PALMS!"
He hit the tree so hard Ibiki could feel the vibrations from his position. He noticed the force of Neji's attacks, the defensive stance his body took, and the look of pained concentration on his face.
Judging by the stance and the way his hits are connecting he's thinking of someone. The way he's hitting that trunk that person would be dead right now. He said Hiashi earlier. I heard that the Hyuuga leader has been more obnoxious than usual, but I didn't know it was this bad. Though that would explain why Hinata is living with Kurenai-san and her son and why Hanabi is living with Moegi-chan. I heard it's worse now that his wife has become sick. He must be taking out his frustration on anyone who comes near him. That's why Hinata is still depressed, Hanabi is a roller coaster of emotions, and Neji is a time bomb about to explode. Ibiki thought as he watched Neji hit the tree harder and harder. Blood started to run down his hands as he continued pounding the tree with full force.
Neji could feel his frustration leaving his body as he hit the tree harder and harder. He imagined it was Hiashi he was beating to a pulp, knocking that smug smile off his face. He wouldn't be so ruthless with the elder, being mindful of his age, but he would still be harsh. He continued to hit now fighting with a sort of recklessness he's never had before. He started going through all his taijutsu exercises. He started kicking the tree after his punches. His legs started to ache as his head pounded, but none of the mattered to Neji tonight. He could feel that he was pushing his body and chakra to the limit, but he didn't care.
If I die then at least everything will be quiet once more. I can finally see my father after all this time. It'll be well worth it. Neji thought feeling the leaves fall around him.
Ibiki could sense that Neji was starting to push his body well over his limit. That wasn't good. If Neji used up all his chakra he would die. Ibiki couldn't sit there and watch Neji kill himself, but if he was to step in now he would be seriously hurt or killed himself. He quickly muttered a transportation jutsu disappearing from his training area to the area Neji was in. He had to approach him with extreme care or he would find all his chakra points closed.
Neji could sense the presence of another, but he didn't acknowledge it. He didn't want to be bothered by anyone now. He just wanted to be by himself if that wasn't too much to ask. He continued on as Ibiki approached him carefully. He was ready to block if Neji turned to strike. Neji ignored him as he continued to attack the tree. Blood started to go down his legs as his heart pounded inside his chest. Sweat covered his body and soaked his robes as the bandages around his forehead fell revealing the curse mark, but Neji ignored the warning signs his hands and feet were giving him. He continued on.
Ibiki stood to the side watching him as Neji continued attacking the tree as though he was fighting the most ruthless ninja in the bingo book. Every blow would be lethal to a human. Neji started swaying during his attacks. His vision started blurring as his chest started to ache. His chakra started to calm down as his body slowed down on it's own. His body started to shut down as pain pulsed through his arms and legs. He tried to fight through it, but it was becoming too much for his already over taxed body. He placed one more Juken hit on the tree before collapsing. He would have hit the ground if Ibiki didn't run to catch him.
He held Neji safely in his arms brushing some strands of hair off his sweaty face. He placed two fingers against Neji's neck checking his pulse. When he felt the weak thump of his heartbeat against his fingers he gave a small sigh in relief.
Good he isn't dead he's just exhausted most of his chakra, which is just as bad. I better take him to the hospital. They'll know what to do. Ibiki thought looking over at the tree Neji attacked earlier. The bark was now gone revealing the trunk underneath. The trunk looked weathered like a hurricane or a tornado hit it. Many pieces of bark were missing from the tree and if you looked closely at the bottom two roots were uprooted. The tree looked worse for wear to say the least.
Ibiki shook his head at the tree before looking down at Neji. What he saw surprised him. Neji was crying softly, twin rivers of tears going down his cheeks as he tried to move his hand. Ibiki never thought he would see tears going down Neji's face.
Even people as strong as Neji need to cry sometimes. It's not healthy to keep things bottled up inside for so long. It's not good for your mind or your body. Ibiki thought brushing some tears off of Neji's cheeks. He couldn't sit for too long though. He checked his pulse again before muttering a transportation jutsu and arriving at the hospital. Ibiki made quite a sight carrying in a limp and bleeding Neji.
The head nurse, Sayoko, blinked in surprise as Ibiki walked towards her. She stood up walking around her desk towards Ibiki.
"Morino-san what happened to Hyuuga-san?" Sayoko said looking over Neji.
"He was training in the forest when he collapsed from chakra exhaustion. I happened to be training in the forest at the time and noticed him passed out by the tree he was using." Ibiki said.
"Oh no he exhausted his chakra too! Lee and Gai-san are in here for the same thing. Well put him on the stretcher, we'll take care of him." Sayoko said.
"Ok and can you call Shizune-san? I would like for her to look over Neji too." Ibiki said. I know she'll keep the news of Neji in the hospital from reaching the Hyuuga compound.
Sayoko nodded as two nurses wheeled a stretcher out and Ibiki laid Neji on top of it. "Don't worry Shizune-san is here already checking over patients, but I'll be sure to call her for Neji."
Ibiki nodded, "Ok," He watched as three more nurses worked on Neji before wheeling him to the back. He felt a tap on his shoulder he looked down into the smiling face of a nurse and former ANBU member Choushin Himura.
"Chou? You're working here now?" Ibiki asked as Choushin smiled pushing a strand of her red hair behind her ear. She nodded, "Yep since Naruto and the kids are basically grown they don't need me as much anymore. I decided to work in the hospital for a little while."
"But you're a medic nin why do you want to work in the hospital?" Ibiki asked.
"Because it's where I got my start and it counts as part of my community service. I got into a bit of hot water with Anko the other day with the council. They said they wouldn't put me in jail if I decided to work my old shift at the hospital with Shizune-chan." Choushin said smiling sheepishly.
Ibiki shook his head, "You and Anko are always getting into trouble. It's a miracle that you two haven't been kicked out of the village yet."
Choushin smiled as she hugged one of Ibiki's arms, "That's because we have you and Jun to help us get out of trouble each time."
Ibiki shook his head again as Choushin laughed. Ibiki thought back to her friend Jun Nomura another former ANBU member. She was now teaching in the academy with Iruka-sensei. After helping Kakashi and the others save Sasuke she said that teaching at the academy again would be a much needed break.
"Isn't Jun here with you?" Ibiki asked.
Choushin shrugged, "I don't know, I think she is. The last time I saw her she was with Shizune-chan, but before you go see her you need to get checked out too."
"What do you mean?" Ibiki asked.
"I can tell that you've been training and you've used up a bit of chakra yourself. Just let us check you over and we'll send you on your way." Choushin said smiling.
"I'm fine I don't need to be checked over." Ibiki said gruffly. Choushin puffed her cheeks out, "Yes you do, do you doubt the word of a medic nin?"
"Are you actually puffing out your cheeks? How old are you? Four?" Ibiki said shaking his head.
Choushin groaned, "Stop being so stubborn Ibiki. You don't want to pass out like last time do you?"
Ibiki sighed, knowing that if he didn't agree to let Choushin look over him she wouldn't give up until he said yes.
Pesky medic nin. Ibiki thought as he nodded, "Ok, ok, you win. I'll let you check me over."
Choushin smiled mewing happily like a cat that just got some milk, "Ok let's get you to an examining room then." She grabbed his arm dragging him down the hall. Ibiki sighed this was going to be some kind of night. While Choushin dragged him down the hall talking about something, he couldn't really remember, his mind traveled back to Neji.
I wonder if I got him here in time. I hope I did. It makes no sense for someone like him to kill himself. Ibiki thought not noticing Choushin calling his name.
"Biki-kun? Hello? Are you there?" Choushin asked staring up at him curiously with her blue eyes.
Ibiki groaned, "How many time have I told you and Anko I don't like that name!"
Choushin giggled, "But it's so cute and besides it's gets your attention everytime."
Ibiki shook his head as Choushin giggled again before becoming serious.
"Is everything alright with Neji-kun? Do you know?"
Ibiki shook his head, "No I don't know, but judging by his stance tonight he was very angry. I've never seen Neji use so much power while training before."
"Me either, it's not like Neji to be so reckless in his training. Do you think Hiashi has something to do with it? I heard he's been hard on everyone lately even the medic nins that go to check on his wife." Choushin said.
"I know he's becoming quite a handful. He comes to Hokage tower demanding whatever dumb excuse he has for the day and if we don't do it in record time he gets so angry he cuts down anyone who's in the office at the time. I've lost three assistants thanks to him. They all had to take vacations because they just couldn't work without crying anymore. He's really starting to get on Tsunade's nerves." Ibiki said.
"I know Shizune-chan was telling me about that. I know Hiashi-san is mad, but he should really calm down. He's already chased away his daughters, but I guess that wasn't a big enough sign. Now he's picking on Neji as if he didn't have enough on his plate already." Choushin said.
Ibiki nodded, "I know, I heard he was asked to join ANBU. That's a pretty hard decision to make."
Choushin nodded, "I know, it's a hard decision for anyone to make. ANBU isn't something one can take lightly."
"You're right, it isn't." Ibiki said. It always amazed him how Choushin could be silly at one moment then become serious the next. She was so much like Anko sometimes it scared him. He pushed that thought aside as Choushin led him to an examining room. He wondered if Neji was ok and if Shizune was able to look at him.
Well I know Shizune will take care of him. I don't have to worry about that. I do have to worry about this cat right here though. Ibiki thought looking at Choushin who smiled like a satisfied cat again.
"Ready Ibiki?"
"Yes let's just get this over with." Ibiki said sitting on the examining table.
Choushin giggled as she closed the door.
*~*~*~*
Shizune shook her head at the two occupants in the room.
"I can't believe both of you are here for chakra exhaustion. Don't you know that can kill you?"
Lee and Gai smiled sheepishly at they rubbed the back of their heads.
"We know Shizune-san, but we couldn't help it. I had to make sure Lee experienced the youthful fire of pushing your body to it's limit!" Gai exclaimed as Lee nodded, "YES! That is why I worked my body to it's limits!"
"YES LEE! I'm so proud of you!" Gai cried.
"THANK YOU SO MUCH GAI-SENSEI!" Lee cried.
Shizune sighed shaking her head, "Lee-kun, Gai-sensei you know you two will be in big trouble for this. Lee, you know Sakura doesn't like for you to overexert yourself like this. Gai, you know Jun will kill you when she finds you in the hospital again."
Gai and Lee smiled sheepishly at the thought of their respected female friends and the fury they contain.
"I'm sure my sweet Jun-chan will understand…"
"Will understand what my dear Gai-kun?"
Gai flinched at the sweet yet deadly voice coming from the door way. He turned around as a woman with dark blue hair and deep green eyes walked inside the room. A frown on her beautiful face as she walked over to him. She tapped her foot on the floor crossing her arms across her chest as she stared at Gai, "Gai…why are you in the hospital…again!"
Gai cleared his throat, "Now Jun, my dear, I was just training Lee and, well, you know how time makes fools of us all."
"Yes I do, but that doesn't explain why there's a cold dinner on my table. I was waiting for six hours Gai before I decided to come visit Shizune and Chou at the hospital, but instead I find you and Lee in the hospital again." Jun said shaking her head. She turned to Lee, "Hello Lee, how are you?"
"Oh I'm fine. It's nice to see you again Jun-sensei." Lee said.
Jun smiled, "It's nice to see you too Lee, but you don't have to be so formal with me anymore. It's fine,"
Lee smiled, "Ok Jun-san,"
Jun smiled, "Oh Lee I'm glad to see you're ok." She turned to Gai as he smiled sheepishly at her, "Now Jun-chan let me explain."
"Yes my dear Gai…please explain." Jun said taking a seat in the chair next to his bed.
Shizune smiled sheepishly rubbing the back of her head. /Even though Jun isn't in ANBU anymore she's still very scary. /
Jun was known in ANBU for her ruthlessness and coldness when executing a mission. She flew through the air with such speed and precision that her enemies thought that a bird was attacking them not a kunoichi. She earned the nicknames Deadly Raven and Ruthless Robin because of it. She always softened whenever she was around children and her friends. She also developed a fondness for birds during her missions. They helped her out when ANBU started to become too much for her. Ibiki's words played a big part in her therapy as well.
Shizune giggled, "I'll leave you guys alone then. Jun-chan, don't be too hard on him."
Jun smiled, "I won't don't worry Shizune-chan." She turned back to Gai, "Ok…explain dear,"
Shizune shook her head one more time before leaving the room. She walked down the hall giggling to herself, Who would have thought that Jun and Gai would be together. I guess all those times really paid off for Gai.
Gai's attempts to date Jun were well known throughout the village. His elaborate and extravagant declarations of love were always bigger and better than the last one; much to the amusement of Kakashi and the others and to the embarrassment of Jun. She wasn't very interested in Gai or his extravagant declarations. Everytime he asked her she would decline him each time. His record of asking Jun on a date rivaled his record of challenging Kakashi to a fight. He wouldn't give up, no matter how many times Jun declined. He would always say, "You'll be mine one day my lovely, lovely, Robin. You'll see!"
Jun would shake her head each time. His persistence paid off one day during a mission to observe Sasuke. After saving her from being killed by Sasuke and Juugo Jun started to appreciate him. After saving her she started apologizing for all the times she was rude to Gai when he asked her out. She thought he would reject her not accept her gifts immediately. She didn't understand why he accepted her gifts everytime. No one did really they all assumed Gai would reject her gifts the same way she rejected his gifts. But Gai explained that two wrongs don't make a right. Besides he knew she would fall for the Gai charm sooner or later. After Jun accepted his first date they've been together ever since. At first it was quite interesting seeing the outgoing Gai with the usually reserved Jun, but after awhile everyone got used to it. They felt that Gai was a good match for Jun.
Shizune smiled fondly at the couple before Sayoko ran up to her.
"Shizune-senpai I'm glad you're here." Sayoko said.
"What's wrong?" Shizune asked her smile fading as she switched into professional mode.
"It's Hyuuga Neji he's exhausted most of his chakra while training. He's dangerously close to complete chakra loss." Sayoko said handing Shizune his chart.
"What? That is completely dangerous and not like Neji-kun." Shizune said jogging with Sayoko down the hall. "Please tell me we're doing the emergency chakra transfusion."
"We are, but Neji used up a lot of chakra during his training session." Sayoko said.
"Damn if we don't hurry he'll die. Who bought him in?" Shizune said.
"Morino Ibiki-san bought him in. Choushin-senpai is checking over him right now." Sayoko said.
Shizune's eyes widened at the mention of the jounin's name, Ibiki bought him in…hmm that's something you don't see everyday.
"Good I'll talk to Ibiki later, but now let's check on Neji." Shizune said as Sayoko nodded running inside the emergency room. It reminded Shizune of the time he came back after his fight with Kidomaru when he was fatally poisoned. He was in the middle of the floor. Many medic nins were around him as they fought to bring Neji's chakra level up. Shizune checked over his machines before taking her place at the center of the circle.
"How are we doing?" Shizune asked putting her hands together.
"We're working as hard as we can to build his chakra levels back up, but it's as if Neji doesn't want to accept our chakra." Ryou, one of the medic nins, said.
"Well we have to keep trying. Come on everyone we must try harder!" Shizune shouted as everyone yelled, "YES SHIZUNE-SAMA!"
Come on Neji you have to pull through. Don't give up. Shizune thought.
*~*~*~*
"Am I done now?" Ibiki asked.
Choushin sighed, "You're so stubborn Biki-kun, but yes you're done."
"It's about time." Ibiki said putting on the extra shirt that Choushin gave him. Choushin finished writing Ibiki's stats on her chart as Ibiki became lost in his thoughts. No news about Neji had come in yet and for some reason he was feeling a bit restless. He wanted to know how Neji was doing.
"Are you thinking about Neji-kun Ibiki?" Choushin said giggling as Ibiki looked over at her, "What?"
"I said are you thinking about Neji? It kinda looks like you are." Choushin said giving Ibiki her famous mischievous smile, a smile that has gotten her and Anko in more trouble than Ibiki could count.
"Well I am, he is a fellow comrade." Ibiki said.
Choushin giggled, "Sure like no one knows about your crush on Neji-kun. Hmm crush isn't the right word to use it's more like an infatuation."
Ibiki's eye twitched it was true that mostly every jounin and ANBU, active or retired, knew about Ibiki's feelings for the Hyuuga Nin. He knew it was thanks to Anko, that nosy little snake, who figured it out one day after Neji came into Ibiki's office to get a report Tsunade needed. Ever since then he's been getting little comments or questions every time he looked around. Even Tsunade would give him a small knowing smile whenever she mentioned Neji's name. It seemed that everyone knew about Ibiki's feeling except Neji. Though Ibiki thinks Neji has a clue about what's going on. He is a very perceptive person after all.
"No I think that's the word to use for you and Ebisu's relationship." Ibiki said watching in triumph as a slight flush appeared on Choushin's cheeks.
"Oh be quiet you leave Ebisu-kun out of this." Choushin said thinking back to the uptight teacher and her boyfriend. That was another match no one saw coming. Ebisu scolded Choushin as much as he did the children at the academy. Choushin would do as many things as she could to piss Ebisu off. She loved seeing his reactions to whatever she did. Their relationship changed after Pain's invasion. He let her go try to help out Kakashi while he fought one of the clones. If it wasn't for Ebisu she wouldn't be alive. They started to become closer after that. Their relationship reached a different level after her breakup with Genma.
A talk with Ebisu about her breakup evolved into so much more. Now whenever Choushin did something Ebisu would whisper something in her ear that made her blush and giggle uncontrollably. It was another couple no saw coming. It was strange at first seeing normally rule abiding Ebisu with the troublemaker Choushin, but now everyone was used to it. Before Ibiki could respond Sayoko ran into the room.
"Sayoko-chan what's up?" Choushin asked noticing the alert on her face.
"Shizune-senpai needs you to help her. We need more chakra." Sayoko said.
Choushin nodded, "I'll be there." She turned to Ibiki who clenched his fist, a habit he did when he was concerned. Choushin patted a spot on his shoulder, "You can sit in the waiting area. We'll be sure to tell you everything that's going on once we're done. Better yet go get Hinata and Hanabi. They need to know what's going on with Neji."
Ibiki nodded, "Ok,"
"Don't worry Ibiki-kun Neji is in good hands." Choushin said flashing Ibiki a smile.
Ibiki nodded giving her a small one back, "I know, now go Shizune-san needs you."
Choushin nodded placing her chart down on the table before following behind Sayoko. Ibiki took a breath, Neji will be ok he's in good hands. Besides you have to worry about breaking the news to Hinata and Hanabi.
Ibiki shook his head before tying his bandana on his head and leaving the examining room. He watched many nurses scrambling about muttering, "What's the status on Hyuuga Neji?"
"He's almost stable, but he's refusing the chakra."
"Why?"
"We don't know that's why we're rounding up every available nurse to help."
Neji don't be weak I know you're stronger than that. You have to pull through if not for yourself, but for Hinata and Hanabi. I wouldn't mind myself. Don't give up Neji. Ibiki thought buttoning up the shirt as he walked out the hospital.
*~*~*~*
"PUSH HARDER PEOPLE WE'RE ALMOST THERE!" Shizune shouted.
"YES SHIZUNE-SAMA!" the medic nins around her shouted in agreement.
Shizune didn't understand why Neji was trying to refuse the treatment. It made no sense to her. His body would start to accept the treatment then it would stop all of a sudden. Shizune couldn't make heads or tails about what was happening.
Choushin ran into the room taking the spot next to Shizune that was previously held by a medic nin.
"SHIZUNE-CHAN, WHY IS NEJI REFUSING TREATMENT!?" Choushin yelled performing the necessary hand signs for the chakra recovery jutsu.
"I DON'T KNOW, BUT WE HAVE TO PUSH HARDER WE'RE ALMOST THERE!" Shizune yelled as Choushin nodded concentrating her chakra.
Come on Neji come on. Shizune thought watching Neji slowly accept the chakra. Neji just wanted to sleep. He didn't feel like dealing with Hiashi or preparing for the ANBU exams. He just wanted to sleep and see his father again, but he knew he couldn't leave Hinata and Hanabi alone. He didn't want to leave any of his other friends either. He had to push through. His body relaxed as he started to fully accept the treatment.
"Shizune-chan, Neji is finally accepting the treatment. His stats are going back to normal." Sayoko said.
Shizune sighed in relief, "I'm glad now let's continue with the treatment until he has a normal amount of chakra. Once he does he can build the rest on his own."
"Right," Choushin said as she nodded.
*~*~*
Ibiki sat in the waiting room with a worried Hinata and Hanabi. He didn't like knocking on Kurenai's door so late at night, but it had to be done. He was glad he didn't wake up Asuma jr., but it was hard watching tears gather up in Hinata's eyes. He calmed her down before she burst into tears, Ibiki was never good with tears, and they were on their way. Hanabi was a little better at hiding her emotions, but Ibiki knew she was just as worried as Hinata. It frightened Moegi to see Ibiki at her door so late at night, but after he told her the news of Neji's collapse Moegi was more than willing to let Hanabi go.
Now they were in the waiting room watching the doors for Shizune or Choushin.
"Hanabi, please, stop pacing Shizune-san or Choushin-san will come out and tell us how Neji is doing." Hinata said wringing her hands in her lap.
"How can I calm down Hinata? Neji exhausted almost all his chakra that's so dangerous! How could he do something like this?" Hanabi said pacing the waiting room.
"…You know he's still at the compound with mom and dad…" Hinata said quietly.
Hanabi stopped pacing she lowered her head hiding her eyes behind her long hair. Ibiki didn't need to look at her to know that she was fighting back tears right now.
"…I forgot about that. You don't think dad…"
"Drove into Neji harder than us…yes…I mean if dad held back with us. I can only imagine what he told Neji." Hinata said softly.
"Damn it, as if kicking us out wasn't enough. Now he has to go after Neji. Damn it!" Hanabi said angrily as she punched the wall.
"Hanabi…" Hinata said softly, but she didn't know what to say. It was true she was afraid of leaving Neji behind, but she had to leave before she did something she would regret. Hanabi was the same, Moegi convinced her to leave before she did something she would regret. They were coming up with different plans on trying to save Neji, but they couldn't find the right times to implement those plans. Now it was too late to use any of those plans.
"Hinata…what if we're too late? What if…what if…" Hanabi stuttered not able to form the words.
"Don't think like that."
Hinata and Hanabi turned to Ibiki who sat quietly all this time while Hinata and Hanabi were talking.
"Neji is a strong ninja he's also a strong man. I'm sure he won't give up without a fight. I know things have been hard at the Hyuuga compound. Your father has been going off on all of us too, so we know what you three have been through. But I can tell you this. Neji is not going to die so it wouldn't make sense to go into that style of thinking when Neji is going to be ok." Ibiki said.
Hinata and Hanabi blinked, they looked at each other before looking at Ibiki.
"Thank you Ibiki-san." Hinata said wiping her eyes as she smiled softly.
Hanabi nodded as she stared at the ground, "Thank you Ibiki-san."
Ibiki nodded as he looked at the door with Hinata and Hanabi. They were relieved when they saw Shizune and Choushin walk through the door with a relieved smile on their faces.
"How is Neji? Shizune-san," Hinata asked.
"He's fine, his body finally accepted the treatment and we were able to stabilize him." Shizune said.
Hinata sighed in relief as Hanabi let out a breath she didn't know she was holding. Ibiki let out a silent breath as well. I knew he could do it.
"May we see him?" Hinata asked as Hanabi perked up walking to stand next to Hinata.
"He's resting right now, but you can see him. I'll take you to him." Choushin said. Hinata smiled, "Thank you, let's go Hanabi."
Hanabi nodded as she followed behind Hinata. The sisters started to get along after the Pain incident. They grew even closer after their mother's health started to decline. After Hiashi's outburst at Hanabi she could finally understand how Hinata felt after all these years. At first they were both too stressed out to even talk to each other. One day Hanabi started to taunt Hinata as usual, but she didn't expect Hinata to fight back. Their shouting match turned violent, but in the end they were able to understand each other.
Shizune walked over taking a seat next to Ibiki, "I don't know what's wrong with Neji-kun. It took us a long time to get Neji to accept the treatment."
"Neji-kun has been going through a lot of stress lately. It took a lot of effort for him to leave the compound." Ibiki said.
"I didn't want to say this in front of Hinata and Hanabi, but we found some bruises. There were a couple on his back, arms, and ankles." Shizune said.
"That's why he's been wearing his bandages again." Ibiki said as Shizune nodded, "I didn't know Hiashi-san could be so ruthless against the branch house. We've been getting a lot more members from the branch house in the hospital lately, all of them with different bruises and marks. I don't think it's safe for Neji-kun to go back to the compound. I know Hiashi-san will be angry about this, but I feel that it's in Neji's best interest."
"I think so too. I mean things have gotten too out of hand over at the Hyuuga compound. It needs to be stopped. I know he's mad, but that's no excuse to take it out on others. Especially your own family," Ibiki said.
Shizune nodded, "I agree, it's a good thing you were in the forest Ibiki-san."
"Yeah it was," Ibiki said.
Shizune nodded, "Well if you want I can take you to his room. I'm sure you want to see him."
She flashed him a knowing smile as Ibiki nodded, ignoring the urge to rub the bridge of his nose, "Sure let's go."
*~*~*
Ibiki walked into the room with Shizune he looked over at Hinata and Hanabi as they watched the rise and fall of Neji's chest. Neji's skin was paler than usual; his hair looked so lifeless against the pillow. For the first time Neji looked helpless to Ibiki. It was something Ibiki thought he would never see, but every person has their breaking point. He stepped in the room before feeling a tap on his shoulder. He turned around looking into the concerned face of Tsunade.
"Hello Tsunade-sama," Ibiki said.
"Hello Ibiki I came over here as soon as Shizune gave me the message. How is Neji doing?" Tsunade said.
"We finally got him to accept the treatment. He's stabilized and now he's resting." Shizune said.
"Good…Shizune told me about the bruises…" Tsunade trailed off as Ibiki nodded, "Yes she told me that as well."
Tsunade sighed shaking her head as she looked in the room, "I don't want Neji staying there anymore. I don't care what Hiashi says this is inexcusable. I can't allow this to happen anymore while I'm here."
Ibiki nodded, "I agree,"
"Do you have any ideas for living arrangements?" Tsunade asked.
"Well everyone is pretty full Tsunade-sama. Iruka and Kakashi are living together as well as Genma and Raidou. Hmm TenTen is by herself, but would she be a good choice?" Shizune asked.
"I don't know TenTen doesn't really know what's going on right now. She might not be able to give Neji the support he needs." Tsunade said.
"Hmm, how about Lee-kun?" Shizune asked.
"What about Sakura? I don't think Neji-kun needs to be around someone who's also getting over something." Tsunade said.
"What about Naruto's apartment?" Ibiki asked.
"That's pretty much reserved for Gaara. I know that he's friends with Naruto, but I don't know about the two of them living together." Tsunade said.
"What about Shikamaru's apartment?" Shizune asked.
"I don't know that's pretty much reserved for Temari and his friends. I know he's become closer to Neji, but once again I don't know if they could live together." Tsunade said.
"Kiba's apartment is pretty much reserved for Kankuro and his friends. The two of them has become close, but that's pretty much up in the air." Shizune said.
"We need him to be with someone that is powerful. Someone Hiashi can't use his power or reputation against." Tsunade said.
Shizune and Ibiki nodded as they all started thinking. Until something came to Shizune, her head popped up as she smiled, "I think I know someone who can do that."
She looked over at Ibiki who blinked in surprise. He didn't like the look in Shizune's eyes it reminded him too much of the look in Anko's and Choushin's eyes when they were up to something.
Tsunade raised an eyebrow, "Really, who Shizune?"
Shizune smiled, "Ibiki-kun he would be perfect for it!"
"Wait, why would I be perfect for something like this?" Ibiki asked.
"Yes, I'm curious Shizune why would he be perfect." Tsunade said.
"Think about it Tsunade-sama, Ibiki-kun is one of the leading experts of the mind and the inner workings of people. He's over the interrogation and torture department and he helps train the new ANBU operatives. Plus Hiashi can't intimidate him so easily. Ibiki can help Neji start to connect to people better and help him come to terms with many different problems and concerns." Shizune said.
"Of course and if I order it Hiashi can complain, but he can't go to the council. They won't see it a problem as they would if Neji was living with one of his friends. It's perfect so Ibiki-kun what do you say?" Tsunade said as Shizune smiled.
"Wait hold on a minute, I have almost nothing in common with Neji. Except for the few times we trained together or whenever I meet him when I go to Ichiraku ramen. I only know a few things about Neji." Ibiki said.
"And you'll have enough time to know more once he moves in with you." Tsunade said smiling.
Ibiki sighed, "But…Tsunade-sama…"
"Yes Ibiki-san do you have any questions to our decision? Any complaints? Any concerns?" Tsunade said with a sweet smile, but in a tone that left no room for discussion.
Ibiki sighed looks like he wasn't getting out of this one, "No Tsunade-sama, I don't have any questions."
"Perfect we'll tell Neji once he wakes up. Now let's go see him shall we?" Tsunade said walking past Ibiki. Shizune flashed him a smile as she mouthed, "Sorry Ibiki," before following behind Tsunade. Ibiki took a breath as he shook his head, What a perfect ending to a perfect day.
He would have Neji living with him now. He would see Neji everyday and try to pick up the pieces left behind by Hiashi. Ibiki started to think as he walked inside the room, Maybe having Neji live with me won't be so bad after all. I'll get to see him everyday and talk to him, but I know there's a long road ahead. At least I'll know where Neji is every night.
He took a seat next to Hanabi and Hinata waiting for Neji to wake up.
Now that Tsunade has made her decision I wonder what Ibiki will do. Better yet how will Neji react to his new living arrangements? We'll see next time, but tell me what do you guys think? NO FLAMES! But constructive criticism is ok. I'm thinking about the second chapter now, but I have a couple of more things to finish.
Well until next time ja ne everyone ^^
See ya