Muahahaha, finally freakin' exams are over! Now I can get back to enjoying life without worrying about evil sheets of paper. And mid-term hols almost here. Yes, more free time! Anyway, here's the next chappy. Sorry it took so long. Hope you all enjoy it XD

Disclaimer : I do not own any of the Naruto characters, Masashi Kishimoto does.


The simple clanking of piano keys together with the piercing shriek of heavy metal played hardcore entered my ears, weaving together a symphony of sounds that drew in everyone who was listening. My senses tingled with admiration as I took in every moment the tune was played. Mesmerized, I allowed my eyelids to slide close. The inimitable melody continued effortlessly, conveying images that played themselves like a slideshow in my mind, like a long-forgotten secret waiting to be uncovered. Just as I was about to grasp hold of what it meant . . .

"Earth to HINATA!"

. . . I was rudely hurled back to reality, awakening from my fantasy in a plain and stuffy music room filled with a few people holding musical instruments. One them in particular seemed annoyed. The rest of the group just observed me in amusement, some trying not to laugh.

"Hinata, that was your queue. Focus please!" Itachi snapped, a small but obvious tick mark appearing on his forehead. Hmm, that did not seem like a good sign.

"S-sorry, I-I-I was t-too absorbed in y-your music I-I forgot to p-play," I murmured apologetically, timidly bowing my head down. I could hear Itachi sigh in defeat at my compliment while the rest of the group tittered at his meltdown. A small smile curved on my lips and my eyes caught sight of my nickel flute, which stayed forgotten within the tight grasp of my right hand. Determined not to repeat my mistake, I lifted it up to my lips and nodded at the rest.

"Ok people, let's begin from the top," Ino called out, "and a 1, 2, 3 . . ."

oOo

It has been a month since the day I joined the band. I suppose I should list out everyone's roles in the so-called 'Black ANBU'. I truly have no idea where the weird name came from but I don't bother asking. Someone's feelings could get hurt.

First of, we have Itachi who plays the piano, Ino who is the lead vocalist but plays the violin during intro's, Naruto who's on the drums, Sasuke the lead guitarist who also sings during duets, Sakura on the bass and of course yours truly who plays the flute. I was also supposed to play a part in vocals but they haven't trained me for that yet. And I was grateful they didn't, as I was not ready to sing in front of anyone for that matter.

My current life is admittedly much more lively than it had ever been before. Band practice was on every Thursday and Friday; long after school was done for obvious reasons. It usually ended late, and I would end up walking home after darkness had draped the sky in its deepest shade of velvet.

Fortunately, I had Sasuke and Itachi to keep me company. It was more convenient that way, for they lived in the same area as I did which was not very surprising. The rich and powerful usually made homes in the same areas, away from commoners. I often mused on this fact, though not really agreeing on the stereotyping. To bad society was already shaped that way long before I was born, so I did not have much of a say in the matter. Then again, I never had in anything.

While we were walking, Sasuke and Itachi would converse with one another about stuff that I didn't know about. I would just tag along behind them, silently following, like a shadow slipping soundlessly through alleys. The only time I would open my mouth was when they asked me questions and when returning 'goodbyes' upon reaching the huge gates of my family mansion.

As weird as the situation was, I felt more comfortable listening to their conversations rather then sharing my thoughts with them. I suppose they sensed this and respected it, allowing me to get used to their presence and open up at my own pace. Not sure if I ever will though, as I still felt fearful in opening up.

The first few days of joining the band was quite uplifting for a dull, rule abiding person such as myself. But now, I was beginning to feel cautious. The strict and ruthless household that I grew up in has taught me a life long lesson never to trust people so easily.

My sister was a fine example of that. Hanabi would never hesitate to grasp hold onto any weakness I had and use it against me to watch my composure fall. This was pretty normal in the high-class society, the desperate haste for power where you fought tooth and nail for what you had, even at a young age. Nevertheless, it still carved a permanent scar in you when your weak spots get hit.

Lately, after joining the band, all this human contact has begun reopening long concealed wounds, painful memories coming back to haunt me.

Memories of myself at the age of 13 began forcefully portraying themselves in my mind, when Hanabi, two years my junior took advantage of my vulnerability after mother had passed away. My mothers death had hit me the hardest as I was more close to her than anyone else in the family. Knowing I was mentally fragile, Hanabi seized that opportunity to prove to our father that she was more worthy of holding the title of heiress by attacking me mentally during combat, earning her an easy victory (as well as holding a significant amount of power in the society, the Hyuga Clan were also well versed in fighting skills). I could still see the look of shame in my father's opalucid eyes, looking down at me as Hanabi gloated at her victory after defeating me countless of times.

Not a word of comfort or encouragement did I ever receive, only taunts from Hanabi and scolding's by my father, chiding me on my uselessness. Dejected, all I had was a necklace my mother had given me before she passed on, a family heirloom that had been passed down for many generations. It was my only tie I had to my mother and all I had to comfort me. Until Hanabi decided to push me even further by stealing it away from me. However, there is only so much a person can take before reaching their limit.

I could still picture the event, the silver necklace dangling around her neck, shining brightly like an unauthorized trophy, as she smirked in her confidence. My father sat at the highest seat, looking down on us, at his last straw. I knew that if I failed him again, the title of heiress would be bestowed upon Hanabi. All that did not matter much. All I cared about was getting back the closest thing I had to my mother. Anger and frustration was all I felt during that brawl.

That night, Hanabi was left to wallow in her defeat as I reclaimed what was rightfully mine. Never again did I show mercy on my sister during combat, learning from that vulnerable time that ruthlessness was the way things were run here.

After that incident, I shut myself away from human contact, only speaking when I was forced to speak, encasing myself in a cocoon that was impossible to open from the outside. My confidence and self-esteem in tatters, I was terrified of people. I developed my ridiculous stutter because of this. As annoying as it was, I could not help it. Staying away from people did that to you. And if I ever felt the urge to regain human contact, my fear would end up pushing them away again hence, the reason why people find me weird.

The only time when I was able to release myself was by blowing through my nickel flute, composing a tune that signified what ever I felt. It was the only thing that could soothe my nerves. Even that, I did in private.

Although before, I had refused to allow those pass memories to even come to mind, lately after joining the band and regaining human contact, the train of thoughts have begun surging through, raging like nature's force with no control. Restraining my emotions has now become a draining task. Playing my flute was able to sustain me for a while but it was only temporary, the memories playing through my mind endlessly like a never-ending movie. As much as I tried to resist, I knew eventually my wall would crumble, revealing my weakness for all the world witness. The very thought of this frightened me.

At least, during school hours, I felt more secure. As tight as the band members are with each other, they are forced apart since they were in different classes. The only ones who were in the same class were Naruto and Sasuke. Figures why those two are best friends. They did make a very strange pair though, both with contradicting personalities. But then again, opposites attract. And I did not mean that in a romantic way.

Even during recess they had their own groups. Naruto and Sasuke joining the guys while Sakura and Ino joining the girls. Since they were all popular, their respective tables were usually overcrowded and noisy. One admirable thing about all this was that they opened up to everyone, not limiting themselves to the high-class students who usually avoided the middle-classes. All this was observed by me, who remained alone at a single table while listening to the din of recess and surveying the antics of students. Sure, it was a weird hobby but quiet people tend to do that to pass the time.

The only other person who remained just as aloft as me was Itachi. I was not sure why but I'm sure he had his reasons. Having trouble keeping my own emotions in check, I did not wish to prod further. Though, sometimes, I would catch a glimpse of anxiousness and sadness in his usually impassive eyes. What ever it is, it did not involve me so I just brushed it aside. This was my everyday life for a month after I joined the band.

oOo

Thursday. Band practice was held as usual in the small, stuffy, secluded music room. After practicing out butts off, we were just lounging around, taking a short break. While the rest of the members chatted, I just sat in a corner of the room, lost in my own thoughts while slurping on a carton of grape juice. This is what I usually did when I wasn't listening to people talk. Lately, it has become more frequent.

The group seemed to be discussing about something serious. Not sure what it was about, but it did not seem to concern me. The members themselves were like strangers to me so I didn't butt into their conversation. That was until Naruto unexpectedly swiveled around to face me.

"Hey Hinata, tell us more about yourself. You've joined our band for about a month and we barely know anything about you,"

Unsure of what to answer, I decided to just state the obvious.

"W-well, my n-n-name is Hinata H-Hyuga. I'm 15 years o-old. I-I play t-the flute," I uttered hesitantly, trying not to reveal too much. I had a feeling my answer was not going to satisfy them though.

The response that I got, a face palm from Naruto and Sakura, and a sweat drop from Ino while the Uchiha brothers just sighed and shot me a poker face. Yeap, they definitely were not satisfied.

"Hmm, how about this. We ask you questions and you just answer," suggested Sakura. She sounded like some police officer interrogating a criminal.

"Ehehe, you don't have to answer if you don't want to though," Ino quickly added, trying to lighten the situation while shooting Sakura a warning glare.

"I-I-I suppose t-that's f-fine," I said in defeat. Even if I did not want to be questioned, the group had their rights too as it was their band that I was joining. Everyone gathered around and turned their attention on me, eager to learn more about the new and elusive member in their group.

"How about we take turns in asking questions," said Ino.

"Seems fair enough," agreed Itachi, his face as emotionless as usual, but with a glint of mischief in his eyes. The other nodded in agreement, sly grins etched across their faces. I had a bad feeling about this.

"I'll start first," Naruto called out, eager to begin. "So Hinata, what's your favourite food?"

Slightly taken aback, I answered "Erm, I-I g-guess it w-would be r-ramen, but I a-also like s-sweet things"

"Yeah! I like ramen too! Especially miso ramen," Naruto enthusiastically chattered, grinning in kiddish delight before receiving a smack on the head by Sakura.

"Can't you do anything without making noise?" she snapped, annoyed.

"Ow . . . Sorry Sakura-chan," Naruto whimpered, clutching his head with tears in his eyes. That must have really hurt. Sakura's brutal strength can really get the better of her sometimes.

"Ehem, I guess is my turn now," Sasuke said clearing his throat. "So . . . what do you do during your past time?"

Surprised by the kind of question coming from the second most emotionless kid in school, I was about to answer before,

"Hahaha, that's a weird question coming from you, Sasuke-kun!" Naruto teased, laughing hard.

"Shut up you dope! I'll ask what I want to ask," yelled Sasuke, fuming. It would seem that the one person who could get anyone riled up is Naruto.

"Guys, let Hinata finish answering," Ino interrupted, breaking up the argument before gesturing at me to continue.

"W-well, I-I usually p-play my flute d-during my f-free time,"

"Don't you do anything else?" Sasuke asked, staring at me quizzically.

"Err . . . I-I also like taking a w-walk in t-the park. I-I also enjoy p-playing my cousins g-g-game consoles when I visit h-him. I-I like r-reading and p-painting t-too." Stopping there, I took in a deep breath and released it slowly. Hmm, this isn't so bad after all.

Sasuke seemed satisfied and nodded at his brother. Sitting up, Itachi turned my way, and gazed at me for a few seconds before speaking.

"How long have you been playing the flute? Judging by how good you are, you must have learnt it from a young age,"

"I-I've been playing e-ever since I was five," I hesitantly answered. Good, I did not reveal too much.

"Hmm, I see." Itachi crossed his arms and looked thoughtfully at me. Then, he lowered his glance and said nothing more. I had a feeling he must have sensed my reluctance to answer.

"Ok, since Itachi is done I guess it's my turn," Ino cheerfully said. "Do you like drinking tea, Hinata?"

"Y-yea, drinking tea is soothing. My favourite tea is green tea and I enjoy drinking it in a clay cup on a rainy day," I answered before realizing how enthusiastic my answer was. Then I realized I barely stuttered when answering. Damn, Ino was good. Then again, she is No.1 at psychology.

I felt everyone's gaze on me after that. Feeling self-conscious, I ended up staring at the marble floor, trying to avoid their stare

"Wow Ino, you're pretty good at getting answers out of her," Naruto said in amazement.

"Well, I am pretty good with people," Ino smirked.

"Sheesh, stop complementing her. You're going to give her a big-head," Sakura scolded, gritting her teeth. Hmm, she sounded jealous.

"Well, it is true you know so don't deny it," Ino boasted in a singsong voice.

"Whatever . . ." Sakura abruptly said before looking way. From the corner of my eye, I could see Sakura's cheeks turning slightly pink.

I sweat dropped over their petty argument. After listening to the whole conversation it would seem that they find my sudden bursts of enthusiasm entertaining.

"Everyone in this room has already answered except Sakura," Sasuke simply stated, obviously wanting Sakura to hurry up.

"Right . . ." Sakura said, recovering from her defeat. "So Hinata, how is it like being the heiress of a powerful clan? Do you, like, have to fight for your place and stuff like that?"

My eyes widened at that. I felt like a huge punch just hit my wall with relentless force, as it begins to crack, inch by inch. I could feel my hands going sweaty as I struggled to keep myself composed. A flash of an image entered my head. I forced myself to forget it before it became clear. I did not want to remember anything of the past. Not here especially.

"Well?" Sakura prodded, gazing expectantly at me with her large, emerald eyes. Apparently she did not realize her mistake.

My head was beginning to hurt with all the straining. I bit my lip, hoping the pain would clear my head a bit. All it did was add to the discomfort. Why did those bloody words ever have to leave her mouth? Sakura's ruthlessness was all rounded it would seem, both verbally and physically.

"What sort of question was that, billboard brow?" asked Ino, obviously sensing my distress.

My head throbbed. Feeling light-headed from the effort, I gripped my chair to stop myself from tipping over. I really needed to get out of here. It was too overwhelming.

"A normal one. What other types of questions are there anyway?" Sakura questioned, confused.

"Ugh, you really should learn to-"

"E-excuse me, b-but I-I need some f-fresh air," I simply stated, cutting Ino off. Hastily, I got up from my chair and shot off out of the room and down the corridor. I could not take it anymore. My head was aching so badly I felt like it would explode from the sudden surge of past events.

I found myself on the huge steps outside the schools main entrance. My head hurt so badly I did not even know what direction I had been running to.

Panting, I sank onto the steps. Too exhausted to restrain them any longer, I shut my eyes. With the darkness came the usual display of images. Together with those images, came the usual stabbing pain in my chest. Strangely, it did not bring tears like it usually did. I had become so used to the situation that the tears just ceased to flow.

I sucked in huge amounts of air, then released it before inhaling again, slow and rhythmical. Soon the storm within me began to clear. I lifted my eyelids open again, gazing into the distance as the warm, soothing hues of late afternoon began fading into the deeper, mysterious shades of evening. Finally, I felt at peace as the storm calmed. I wryly continued gazing into the vastness of the school compound, worn out from the episode.

A sudden shifting of feet awoke me from my daze. Swiftly, I wiped my head around and looked up at the figure standing before me.

"Itachi-san?"


Man, that was long. Hope it was alrite. It's pretty predictable though. There was a lot of drawling so I hope it didn't bore you guys. For the name of the band I had zero idea on what to call them so . . . yea, random idea that popped in my head. I'm still not very satisfied with it though (=.=) . . . Ok then, until next time.