This chapter is going to jump back and forth a lot, because the first part is going to be about how Naruto and Hinata 'prepare' for the party. The end is going to be at the party. Keep in mind that Naruto's dance lesson is going to be noticeably 'sillier' than any other part of the story, before or after. Also, the PoV is going to jump between a lot of people at the party for a bit to show what's happening with the other characters we all know and love.
Okay, just going to give a brief explanation of what's going to happen next. I am going to have Kurenai end up teaching Naruto to dance in the strangest still-plausible way possible. Just keep that in mind when you read this next scene… hopefully it doesn't seem too OOC.
Naruto groggily rose from his messy bed, his limbs entangled in the sheets. After minutes of fumbling about the young shinobi extricated himself from his comfortable death-trap. (A/N; Seriously, if you're in a comfy bed, there's no way in hell you're getting up. That might be trouble if someone breaks in while you're sleeping.)
He reached for his usual attire when he remembered what Hinata said the night before. 'Naruto-kun, don't forget to dress well tomorrow!'
He found the second outfit Hinata had purchased for him and lazily slipped it on. He made to leave his bedroom when suddenly he realized that he hadn't showered… What good are nice clothes if I smell like a mud pit?
Indeed you do, kit.
Shut up… stupid fox…
The Kyuubi, much to Naruto's surprise, didn't make a remark. Not wanting to press his luck, Naruto undressed himself and slipped into the shower. He started to sing to himself as the water washed over him, singing whatever tune popped into his head.
Eventually Naruto ceased the flow of water and began to dry himself. Small drops of water cascaded down his chest and dripped onto the hard, tiled floor of the bathroom. Damn, I should really get a bathmat…
(Naruto's thoughts are supposed to be very scattered; it's Naruto.)
Wrapping his towel about his waist, Naruto walked into his kitchen to prepare some instant ramen. He hurriedly grabbed the nearest cup of his precious ramen and began preparing it immediately, cursing every minute that he was forced to wait. Eventually the painstaking eternity of waiting for his 'miracle food' came to an end and he ruthlessly devoured the entire cup. He made to get another one when a knock on the door drew his attention.
"Who the hell-"
The door swung inward, being followed closely by a particularly large, red-eyed woman. Kuso! I thought I locked the door!
Yuhi Kurenai positively glared at him… or maybe it was just her normal look. "Naruto-san."
"Kurenai-sensei." Naruto was blushing at the fact that he was wearing nothing but a towel, but tried not to draw attention to the fact.
"I heard that you're taking Hinata-chan to a party?"
What's she getting at? "Hai. Um… what are you doing in my house, Kurenai-sensei?"
She arched her eyebrows at the straightforward question. "Well, I wanted to make something clear to you, Naruto-san." I am really creeped out now… why the hell did she just barge into my apartment! Maybe those mood swings are getting really bad… "I am very protective of Hinata, and I fully expect you to do your best to ensure that she is not harmed or disappointed."
"I'd never hurt Hinata-chan!"
"You mean like how you didn't hurt her by not noticing her feelings for seven years?"
Naruto winced as Kurenai went on. "I just came to warn you that unpleasant things may arise should you do anything harmful to my student."
"H-hai, Kurenai-s-sensei." She is so scary!
"Now, I want you to tell me exactly what you and Hinata-chan are going to do."
"Um… at s-seven thirty I'm going to pick her up, and then we're going to the party at the Yamanakas'."
"I imagine no one will be drinking?" (A/N; picture Kurenai as the overprotective gf's mother from hell.)
"W-well Hinata and I won't be but, um… I think Sakura was going to invite Obaa-chan, s-so…" They both knew that the Hokage would never be able to resist sake if it was available to her.
"What exactly will be going on?"
"W-we'll probably just eat and talk with our friends."
She raised a disbelieving eyebrow. "That's it? No dancing, or anything?"
Naruto looked a bit embarrassed as he confessed. "Actually, I've never danced before."
"Well then, I suppose I'll have to show you."
What? "What, Kurenai-sensei?"
"You heard me! Every young woman wants some young man to sweep them off their feet dancing. I want this night to go as well for Hinata-chan as it possibly can, so you are going to learn to dance."
Naruto gulped as a sense of foreboding washed over him. This was not going to end well for him.
Hinata woke up from her pleasant dreams to the odd sensation of being watched. As she cleared her eyes of the bleariness that always followed sleep she saw Hanabi standing there with a sickeningly sweet grin on her face. Caught by surprise, Hinata jumped up and nearly fell to the ground.
"Imouto!"
Hanabi batted her eyelashes in a remarkably effective attempt to look as cute as possible. "Hinata-nee-chan, I was wonderin'…"
"Yes?"
"… If maybe I could go to that party you were talking about with Naruto-san?"
The older Hyuuga groaned exasperatedly. "Hanabi-chan, why do you want to go to the party?"
"Well, I was thinking that it could be fun! And maybe I could meet some of your friends, since my friends are all busy…"
Oh god! I can think of a few people who might not be the best influences… *cough* Kiba-kun *cough* Ino-chan *cough*. "Hanabi, you don't want to meet my friends! You'll probably just think they're boring!"
"More boring than most of our family?"
She has me there."Okay. Fine. You can come with Naruto-kun and I to the party, Hinata-chan."
"Yay!" Hanabi shouted excitedly.
"On one condition!" Hinata wasn't used to being forceful with anyone, but if her notably younger sister was going with her to a party she had to lay down some ground rules. "If and when the Hokage arrives, you are to not even get within three feet of whatever sake she brings with her!" Her sister was not going to start drinking!
"Duh, Hinata-chan! Why would I touch that stuff?"
"I'm just warning you."
Hanabi exaggeratedly rolled her eyes. "I thought Naruto-san giving you confidence was a good thing, but now you're just bossy!"
Hinata gasped. Me? Bossy! She opened her mouth when Hanabi spoke again. "Why is Hokage-sama attending the party?"
"Well, Sakura-chan and Ino-chan also invited our senseis" (A/N; proper plural of sensei?)
"Oh, so your sensei is going to be there?"
"Actually, I asked that they didn't invite Kurenai-sensei because she didn't need any additional stress or negativity with her pregnancy."
"That makes sense."
"I just hope she's relaxing and not doing anything too strenuous."
"Kuso!" yelled the red-eyed genjutsu mistress. "I said right foot!"
Naruto paled under the angry gaze of his girlfriend's sensei. "Sorry, I got confused with the timing!" That, and the fact that he was extremely uncomfortable holding the kunoichi's hand.
"It's the waltz; the waltz! It is far from the most complicated dance to learn!" She looked like a vein was about to burst in her forehead.
They had spent the better part of an hour learning the most basic waltz steps, much to Kurenai's frustration. For a trained killer who was skilled in taijutsu, Naruto could barely remember to alternate feet for a simple box step.
"Why are we learning this dance again?"
"Is there another dance you'd rather learn?"
"Uh…"
"Okay, now, start again on the left foot." They began again on the horrid, arduous task of teaching the knucklehead to dance.
Ugh! I hope Hinata-chan appreciates what I'm going through for her! Why can't this be easy?
"Naruto-san!"
"Huh?"
"I said 'it looks like you're ready for the next move.'"
"Oh, okay. What move is that?"
"We're going to begin working on some basic spins. And by basic I mean basic enough for even you to be able to do."
How does she expect me to spin her? She's gotten pretty damn big, and if I drop her to the ground… I don't want to hurt her baby. "Um, Kurenai-sensei I don't think that that's such a good idea. I don't think I can spin you and-"
The resounding sound of a slap echoed through the area. "Are you calling me fat?"
"What? No! It's just I'm not good at this and I didn't want to-"
Another slap. "Do you think that I'm incapable of even staying standing without your help?"
"No!" How does Hinata-chan put up with this woman?
Suddenly she seemed apologetic, and possibly ashamed. "I apologize, Naruto-san. I shouldn't have overreacted."
"What?" Oh, right. Mood swings.
"Let's just get back to dancing; I assure you that I'll be fine."
Ugh, this is awful. I really hope this isn't a wasted effort.
"Otou-sama, may I spend the night at the Yamanaka home to assist Sakura-chan and Ino-chan in cleaning up?"
The Clan Head looked at his daughter thoughtfully before nodding. "Hai, musume."
Hanabi looked at her older sister with a hurt expression. "Hinata-nee-chan, what about me? I'm just supposed to walk home alone and then do nothing for the rest of the night?"
Hinata couldn't think of what to say. She hadn't been thinking of Hanabi when she asked. Hanabi probably planned this, but… "How about I ask Ino-chan if you can stay as well, Imouto?"
Hanabi grinned from ear to ear, and her eyes gleamed triumphantly. Oh yeah, she definitely planned this. "Thanks, Onee-chan!"
Why do I have the feeling this is going to be a long day? I bet Naruto's day is going better than mine.
Naruto hurriedly shook off the sensation of having his eyes being eaten by bugs, dispelling the genjutsu placed on him by the furious woman before him. "Kurenai-sensei, why would you do that?"
"You stepped on my foot!"
They had been bickering back and forth for quite a while as his 'lesson' had gone on and it seemed as if they would just keep on going when suddenly they heard a burst of laughter, followed by a flash of silver hair.
Kakashi gave an amused eye-smile as he looked at his visibly-agitated student. "Yo."
"Kakashi-sensei, how long have you been watching?"
"Long enough to know that you really need some help."
Great, now I have two jonin against me. "And let me guess, you think you can help."
"No, I know I can help. Watch what I do." The silver-haired jonin took Kurenai's hands and began to fluidly move through a complex pattern of steps, moving with a steady tempo and consistently shifting his stance. Way to show off, Kakashi-sensei! Just like the bell test…
"You need to relax! Kurenai-san, you're scaring the hell out of him. Maybe you could use a transformation jutsu to look like someone who he wouldn't be afraid to touch?"
Kurenai looked insulted but after a series of handseals she was replaced by the form of Hyuuga Hinata, wearing her usual baggy jacket. As Naruto seemed to be more at ease she began to walk him through each of the steps again, the only oddity being the cold, stern voice.
Kakashi watched him with an appraising eye, noting all of his movements and correcting slight imperfections in his form. He would occasionally offer encouragements or critiques, yet he mostly remained silent.
"Wow, Kakashi-sensei, if only your taijutsu lessons were this good!"
A loud voice boomed, "Ah, I see that your youthful student has noticed your faults, my eternal rival! One must always show strength in front of their students!" A green spandex-clad shinobi suddenly appeared next to Kakashi.
"Yo."
Naruto was now getting very concerned with how his friends senseis kept intruding on whatever he was doing. "Gai-sensei, what are you doing here?"
With his far-too-loud voice Gai replied. "I saw my eternal rival wander over here and decided to investigate!"
Kakashi had at some point drawn out his small orange book, which he was now reading intensely. "Gai, did you say something?"
"Oh, Kakashi, why must you always be so 'cool' and 'hip'?"
As Gai began a full on rant about the power of youth Kurenai subtly leaned toward Naruto and whispered in his ear, "I think you can go now, Naruto-san. You've learned enough to not ruin Hinata-chan's night, and I'm not going to make you sit through this."
Thank. Kami-sama.
Hinata waited by the door expectantly, younger sibling in tow. The clock read seven thirty and Naruto should be arriving any minute. Hinata felt positively giddy about spending time with Naruto, even if they weren't alone for the night. At least they could walk together and- wait, no, Hanabi was with them. Either way, she and Naruto were together. Naruto-kun, I will get you to love me!
Hanabi looked around nervously before she asked Hinata a question. "Hinata-chan, why do you like Naruto-san?"
Hinata stared at her in disbelief. What?
The ten year old continued. "I mean he's really funny, and I guess he's kind of… cute… but that's not enough to like someone like you do."
She looked at the door then back to her sister. "Well Hanabi… um…" She took a deep breath as she organized her thoughts. "Naruto-kun was always alone." That earned a confused glance but she continued. "He had no one to care for him, and he was openly hated by all the villagers. They would kick him out of their stores, threaten him with violence… attack him… but even though he went through all that he never gave up. Instead of hating the villagers back he vowed to become Hokage and prove that he deserved better, to protect Konoha and everyone in it even though they didn't want him. He trained and trained to someday reach his dream, and he inspired me. Otou-sama would always call me weak, and make me feel worthless, but Naruto-kun was always there to make me feel that I shouldn't give up either. So I watched him, every day I would watch him suffer undeserved abuse and watch him take it in stride. He amazed me."
Hanabi was was the most her sister had ever said at once.
"Then during the Chunin exams, when everyone else had given up on me –when I had given up on myself- Naruto cheered me on and made me fight harder. He believed in me more than anyone ever did. Eventually 'like' turned to 'love', and I always waited for the day where I might finally be able to tell him. And then he left for three years… I was heartbroken at his leaving, but I waited every day for him to come back to Konoha. He hadn't given up on me and I wouldn't give up on him. Then when he came back I still couldn't bring myself to tell him. Although we barely talked, Naruto-kun tried his hardest to save me when we searched for the jinchuuriki of the three-tailed giant turtle. He always protected me. That, Hanabi-chan, is why I love Naruto."
At some point near the beginning of Hinata's speech Naruto had been given leave to enter the compound, and he was now staring dumbly at the lavender-eyed heiress. Hinata looked back to the door and began to blush furiously as she saw the open-mouthed blonde staring at her.
"Hinata! I… uh…" At a loss for words he swiftly walked over to her and embraced. Naruto whispered softly in her ear. "That was beautiful, Hinata-chan. I have never heard anyone speak about me like that… besides maybe you."
Hinata giggled stupidly and just stood there for a moment before a loud cough brought her back to attention. She backed up a few steps to a less intimate position, saying "Naruto-kun, I wanted to tell you that Hanabi-chan will be going with us to the party."
"Is Sakura-chan okay with that?"
"She said I could bring anyone."
"Okay then!" Naruto walked over to Hanabi with his hand raised for a high five. "Come on, kid! It'll be great!"
Hanabi looked at the hand confused; Hyuuga's did not give 'high fives' Naruto shook his head and withdrew it. "Okay, Naruto-san." She turned around and yelled "Farewell, Otou-sama!"
At that the trio departed the large compound, the youngest looking on in disgust as the other two kissed each other lightly. Hinata wrapped her left arm about Naruto's while Hanabi clasped onto her right hand. This is nice. They walked for a long time toward the Yamankas' home, Hinata enjoying every looked over to see Naruto with a confused yet comforted look plastered on his features.
"Naruto-kun?"
"Hmm?"
"I don't know, you just had this weird look on your face."
"I was just thinking… never mind."
He probably thinks I'll say it's stupid. Doesn't he understand? "Naruto-kun, what did you want to say?"
"Well… I was just thinking that maybe this is what having a family feels like."
Hinata felt heat rush to her face. Am I really that special to him? "What makes you say that?"
"I don't know, it's just… it feels nice having people around you that care for you, who you know won't abandon you, and who you care about too."
He cares that much? Hinata started to silently cry tears of joy. I never thought that I'd ever be this close to him; that he'd ever feel strongly about me. And all those things he said yesterday to Otou-sama… If it weren't for Sakura's plan I might never have had this chance. I owe her more than I can repay.
Naruto looked over and saw the slight glistening on her cheeks. "Did I say something wrong? I'm sorry if-"
"No, Naruto-kun, you didn't say anything wrong. I'm just so happy right now I can't contain it." Sometimes you had to explain things to Naruto, but that density was endearing.
He gave his trademark fox-like grin before leaning in to kiss her again. As their lips locked she let go of her sister's hand, running her now freed appendage through Naruto's hair while the other one wrapped about the back of his neck. As a pair of strong arms wrapped about her waist the logical part of her mind screamed how embarrassing this was, yet it was drowned out by the part of her mind that simply went with the moment. She heard a light cough from Hanabi, yet she completely ignored her sister. They simply embraced each other's presence. Then they heard a loud whistle and clapping, causing Hinata to stand ramrod stiff and nearly faint.
Apparently they had been closer to their destination than they expected, as the rest of the Konoha Eleven were standing there applauding alongside Tsunade, Shizune, Kakashi, Gai, Iruka, Sai and.. Anko?. This is so embarrassing! She looked back at her boyfriend, expecting him to be in a similar state of mind as her, but he was giving them a large smile. He wrapped his arm around her, pulling her into a crushing hug while muttering something like "Well, I guess we don't have to tell some of them now" under his breath. Then, with pride in his voice, Naruto shouted "Hyuuga Hinata is my girlfriend!"
The applause increased as Hinata finally succumbed to her lightheadedness and fainted in Naruto's arms.
Ino and Sakura looked concerned as Hinata's body suddenly went limp, but Naruto just picked her up bridal style and started to carry her inside to find her a soft place to rest. All of the others streamed in behind him muttering amongst themselves. Naruto looked around the large living room to find a place to place the lavender-eyed beauty resting in his arms.
The living room was tastefully decorated, the furniture resting against the near and far walls with a small table near the couch. The walls were a dark red color, while the ceiling was eggshell white. The floor was covered in a very soft carpet of a similar color to the ceiling. Naruto eyed the couch appraisingly and then made to set her down. He began to lower her onto the waiting cushions but Hinata grasped onto his shirt and refused to let go. With an amused sigh Naruto sat down and allowed the unconscious Hyuuga to snuggle up against him. Hanabi, not knowing anyone else there, sat next to Naruto opposite her older sister.
Kiba and Akamaru found a seat across from Naruto and spoke after a brief burst of laughter. "Man, Naruto-kun, you sure know how to make an entrance!"
"What were all of you guys doing out there anyway?"
"Well, most of us were inside but Tenten-san had gone out for some air when she saw you lean in. She quickly got the rest of us outside to see what was going on."
"So you guys had nothing better to do than watch me kiss Hinata-chan?"
"Hey, half of us couldn't believe you finally got the sense knocked into you! I lost a bet to Shikamaru because I figured you wouldn't kiss her."
"Well, sucks for you!"
Kiba laughed but then his face was serious. "Do you love her?"
Naruto was surprised, to say the least. "What?"
"I said do you love her? If you don't truly care about her, and you hurt her, I will kick your ass!" Akamaru barked a loud agreement.
"It can't be worse than what Kurenai-sensei threatened me with!" Naruto chuckled a bit at the remark and then thought to himself. Do I love her? I mean, she is one of my precious people; she's stood by me when other people didn't. He remembered everything he thought yesterday when he made his promise, and everything she had said today.
Do you really need to ask yourself that, kit?
Naruto grinned as joy overwhelmed him. No I don't!
"Yes!"
Kiba jumped at the sudden exclamation but then flashed a grin as well. "Are you sure you're not just fooling yourself?"
"I love Hinata-chan more than anyone else."
"Glad to hear it, Naruto-san."
Naruto looked over to the now open-mouthed Hanabi. "Don't say anything, I want to tell her myself tomorrow."
Hanabi grinned before nodding excitedly.
Kiba looked over at the young Hyuuga, not really noticing her until now. "Who's the kid?"
"That's Hinata-chan's younger sister Hanabi."
He held a hand out in greeting. "Hey, I'm your sister's teammate Inuzuka Kiba."
Hanabi did a slight bow, or as best she could from a seated position. "It is nice to meet you, Inuzuka-san."
Naruto pretended to look hurt. "The kid wasn't that respectful when she met me! She slapped me!"
Kiba laughed while Hanabi shouted "You called my Otou-sama a teme!"
"He was a teme!"
Hanabi made to scold the blonde shinobi until Sakura ran over. "Hanabi-chan! I didn't know you were coming!"
"Hai. Oh, Sakura-chan, could you get Ino-chan?"
Sakura turned around and yelled "Ino-pig!" while Naruto pointed a questioning eyebrow at Hanabi.
"Sakura-chan and Ino-chan?"
Sakura interjected. "Ino-pig and I always hung out with Hanabi the few times we went to the Hyuuga Compound."
"Sakura-chan, I didn't know you had a soft spot for little kids!"
Hanabi seemed furious as she hissed "I'm not a little kid! I am training to be a kunoichi of the leaf!"
"Hitai-ate equals adulthood, but until then you're a pipsqueak."
"Am not!"
"Are too!"
"Am not!"
The argument between the sixteen year old gennin and the ten year old girl lasted for some time, much to the amusement of those around.
(Shikamaru* and Choji)
Choji happily ate his way through several plates of food while his friend sat next to him in brooding silence. As he swallowed the last of his fourth plate the huskier boy asked "What's up, Shikamaru?"
I bet you already know what's up. It doesn't take someone as smart as me to figure that out. "Nothing."
Choji quickly scarfed down another small plate of dango before posing another question. "You wish Temari was here, don't you?"
The lazy genius smirked as he muttered "That troublesome woman." I knew that you would have figured it out. If only she'd returned after the reconstruction. No, no, no need to trouble myself with trivialities and wishes. I'm a tactician, I should know better than anyone to make do with what I've got.
"If you like her why don't you just tell her?"
"What, and give her the upper hand?" I want to see if she's as smart and observant in this situation as she is playing shogi
"I guess."
And I know why you've only eaten four full plates of food since we got here. "So, when are you going to ask Ino on a date?"
"What? What makes you think I want to ask out Ino?"
If only you knew how obvious it was. "You always eat more slowly when she's around, you work marginally harder if you think you are in a position to impress her, you made slight altercations to how you dressed when she made offhand comments about it, and you always steer the conversation away if it approaches the topic of Ino's appearance."
Choji just went back to finding snacks, mumbling about Shikamaru being 'too smart for his own good.'
Shikamaru grinned as he thought of his small triumph over his friend, and as he thought of a certain Suna kunoichi with her hair in four pigtails.
(Neji and Tenten*)
"If you hadn't insisted that I come here early with you, Lee-kun and Gai-sensei the whole incident could have been avoided!" said the pale-eyed jonin, his voice as cold as ever.
Oh, Neji. "So I should have just let you be a buzzkill on Naruto-kun and Hinata-chan's mood?"
"Yes! Then my cousin would not be unconscious while the party goes on around her."
Wow Neji, I'm really glad to see you're such a romantic. "Yeah, and then Naruto might not have just said he loves her."
The weapons mistress smirked to herself as Neji went wide-eyed. "Hn. You win this time, Tenten-chan. I will try and leave my cousins romantic affairs alone.
Yeah, and then maybe you could focus on another girl's romantic affairs! Can't those special eyes of yours see anything?" Neji-kun, could you go get me a drink?"
As Neji wordlessly walked in the direction of the punch bowl Tenten let her hair down, and nimbly leapt to the bathroom to apply last-minute makeup. If I'm lucky, Naruto won't be the only one leaving here with a Hyuuga!
(A/N; Sorry to tell you, NejiTen fans, she's not lucky. For all he berates Naruto for being unobservant Neji isn't much better.)
(Shizune* and Tsunade)
Shizune shook her head at her mentor's display as she continued to harass Naruto, who still had Hianta resting soundly against his chest.
"C-come on, gaki! *hic* I-I have an experiment." Her words were slurred from the massive amount of sake she had already downed.
"No, Baa-chan."
"You don't even know what it is y-yet! *hic*"
"Fine, Baa-chan. What is it?"
"I want to see what happens if a Kage Bunshin gets d-drunk, really drunk, *hic* and what happens to the o-original after it dissipates."
That's actually an interesting idea… but I shouldn't let Tsunade-sama get too out of control. Might as well nip it in the bud. The dark-haired woman walked over and placed a strong grip on the busty blonde's arm. "Tsunade-sama, maybe you should go sit down-"
"Hey, look *hic* Shizune-chan" She pointed up as she whispered "we're under the mistletoe." She giggled as if she had made some hilarious joke. Shizune was too taken aback by the heavy scent of sake to register what the Hokage had said until she saw the older woman pucker her lips comically. Kami, why?
Shizune tried to pull away but the much stronger kunoichi was now pulling her closer. Wincing, Shizune closed her eyes and brushed lips with her mentor for no more than two seconds. Tsunade laughed before falling down the floor, passing out from the copious amounts of alcohol. This Is why I never go to parties with Tsunade-sama; this is just a small get-together with friends! Imagine how bad she would be at a real party!
Shizune dropped onto the nearest seat she could find and let out a large sigh. She looked at Naruto as he prodded the Hokage with his foot, seeing if it would rouse her but to no avail. He looked at her, embarrassment on his face, but she just waved it off and let him resume his prodding.
Right now I'm just going to sit back, and let whatever happens to Tsunade-sama happen.
(Sakura* and Ino)
The pinkette looked up to see Ino finally saunter her way over to where she and Hanabi were waiting. "Ino-pig, Hanabi-chan wanted to ask you something."
The blonde looked at the young Hyuuga and her face lit up. "Hey, kiddo! What's up? Oh, and Sakura? Why is the Hokage passed out on the floor?"
When I started training with one of the Sannin, I never figured that all three of them would be such weirdos! There's that damn pervert that Naruto trained with, Orochimaru is a treacherous bastard and Tsunade-sama is a raging alcoholic! Maybe being strong means you have to have some weird quirk? Sakura bluntly said. "She likes to drink. A lot." As proud as I am to call her sensei, I'm ashamed to call her sensei.
Ino smiled and looked at Hanabi, who said "I wanted to ask if I may spend the night here with Hinata-nee-chan."
"Sure thing! It'll be great!"
Oh, Ino-pig, you'd never turn down an opportunity to hang out with little kids… then again I doubt I'm much better. But that's what friends are for, right? After Sasuke had left Konoha to train with that bastard Orochimaru, Ino and Sakura had worked at renewing their friendship. Everything seemed better once she got her friend back, like things weren't so bad.
Sakura decided that talking out loud was more interesting than thinking to herself, so she let fly the first question that came to mind. "So Hanabi, how are things at the academy?"
"They're okay I guess. It's kind of boring though."
Ino smiled sweetly. "I know, I thought the subjects were boring too."
"No, it's not that. I like the subjects, it's just that I don't really like some of the teachers."
Sakura stepped in this time. "Who don't you like?"
Hanabi whispered, afraid that the target of her next statement might hear her. "Well, I guess he's okay, but I think Iruka-sensei is a bit… eh…"
Sakura was surprised; she had always loved Iruka. What didn't surprise her is how Naruto's head shot around in a flash. She tried to alleviate the situation by having Hanabi explain herself before Naruto started ranting. "What don't you like about Iruka-sensei?"
"Sometimes it seems like he doesn't take his job seriously with his jokes. And a lot of the time he seems indifferent if his students do poorly, like he doesn't really care that much."
Sakura blanched as the last words left the girl's mouth. Wrong move, girly. Naruto looked as if he was about to burst… which he did. "What do you mean, 'Iruka-sensei doesn't seem to care'? Iruka-sensei is possibly the only good person out of all of those temes at the Academy!"
Sakura reached out to him, trying to soothe him. "Naruto-kun"
"Iruka-sensei taught us better than all of the other teachers, and he was the only one who didn't treat me like trash! You know why he doesn't freak out when you score bad? Because he's proud of you for trying!" He seemed to want to say more but instead shot up, dropping Hinata onto the couch roughly, and stormed out the door.
Sakura shouted after him. "Naruto-kun, where are you going?"
"Out! I'm not going to sit here and listen to someone badmouth Iruka-sensei!"
Ino whistled at the display of rage, while Sakura hung her head. Hanabi seemed shocked, not moving an inch. Sakura and Hanabi turned to see a very concerned Iruka go running after his former student.
Hanabi whimpered a bit, so Sakura placed her hand on the child's arm. "It's okay, he'll calm down eventually. Just let him work it out. Naruto isn't the kind to hold a grudge."
Hanabi only dumbly nodded as she shamefully looked at the open door.
Is she ashamed for upsetting Naruto-kun, or for how she badmouthed Iruka-sensei?
(Iruka*)
Iruka ran around the nearby areas, searching for his student. Naruto couldn't have gotten that far so quickly, right? He eventually took to the rooftops for a better vantage point. His eyes scanned the trees and buildings for any sign of Naruto. He sighed after minutes of fruitless searching until he saw a flash of yellow in the distance; yellow and red. Iruka ran to the spot, finding Naruto mercilessly assaulting a random tree, with red chakra seeping from his pores.
Each blow from his fists sent chunks of wood flying, his punches fueled by rage and anger. Iruka stepped forward and quietly said, "Naruto?"
Naruto looked up at his mentor and his anger seemed to lessen as the red chakra began to recede. "Iruka-sensei."
"Naruto, come back to the party."
"Why? Did you hear what Hanabi-san said about you?"
"Naruto look at me." The blonde complied as Iruka continued. "Naruto, why did that anger you so much?"
"Because she was talking crap about you, Iruka-sensei! She had no right to say that kind of stuff about you!"
"Of course she had the right!"
Naruto suddenly was extremely confused. "What?"
"Naruto, everyone is allowed to have their own opinions. Everyone deserves to express themselves; that's why we fight!"
Naruto nodded, but he looked skeptical.
"Naruto, do I look upset at Hanabi's words?" Naruto shook his head. "Then why should you be upset?" The gennin opened his mouth to say something but the words died in his throat.
"The only way to prove someone wrong is through your actions, not harsh words or violent outbursts. I figured you of all people would know that best. Isn't that why you dreamed of becoming Hokage?"
The blonde nodded slowly. "Hai, Iruka-sensei."
"So don't worry about what she said; I'll just have to try harder to show her that I do care. Come back with me to the party and enjoy your night out with your girlfriend." Iruka smiled as he said that last. I'm so glad Naruto finally found someone.
His former student smiled back. "Hai, Iruka-sensei."
The duo walked back together to the Yamanaka home laughing and joking as they went.
"Naruto, how about we make a bet? If I can't change Hanabi's mind in the first week back at the academy I'll treat you to a night at Ichiraku's."
"You're on Iruka-sensei!"
(Kakashi and Anko*)
Looking at herself in the bathroom mirror, the Snake Mistress of Konoha did her best to look sexy for a certain cyclopean Jonin. I will see what's under that mask! She adjusted her shirt to reveal as much cleavage as was decent… for her at least. With her bust practically bursting out of her shirt, Mitarashi Anko walked over to Hatake Kakashi, swaying her hips as much as she could. "Hey… Kakashi" She licked her lips seductively.
"Yo."
Really? Nothing? She pulled out a bottle of sake. "Would you share a drink with me?" She used the dreaded 'Puppy-dog Eyes no Jutsu' and gave the cutest pout she could.
"Sure."
She leaned over as she poured each of them their drinks, giving an even better view down her shirt, before sitting uncomfortably close to the infamous copy-nin. Now I can finally see that face of his! Suddenly, out of nowhere, he produced a straw which he inserted into his sake. He slipped the thin tube beneath his mask and gave a large eye smile as he happily sucked down the alcoholic beverage.
Son of a bitch!
When he finally finished Anko turned and straddled his hips. She whispered as sensually as she could, "Hey, Kakashi, how about we… go some place quiet." She was willing to give him some to finally see his face.
He bluntly said "No thanks."
She whined. "Aww… come on!" She wrapped her arms around his neck as if to pull him into a kiss. Suddenly she grasped his mask and pulled it off, crying triumphantly. She looked at his face and nearly burst a blood vessel.
Kakashi smiled at her through his still-masked face. "I always wear a backup, just in case. Better luck next time Anko!" He gently pushed her off of him as he strode away. The last thing anyone heard before Anko's earsplitting scream of frustration was Kakashi saying "Hey, Gai! Let's play some poker!"
(Lee, Gai and Kakashi*)
"Yosh! I will play you in a most youthful game of poker, my hip and cool rival, under one condition! We shall play only one hand, and if I win you shall show me your face!" Gai's voice boomed through the Yamanaka home.
Of course. Kakashi inwardly sighed; why did everyone want to see his face? "And if I win?"
"Then I shall run five hundred laps around Konoha!"
Lee piped in as well, "As shall I!"
Of course… "How about instead of that, both of you stop training for four days."
Lee's already huge eyes bugged out of his head, but Gai quickly agreed. He signaled to his pupil and in a matter of seconds their hands were dealt. Kakashi simply read the newest –and final, he reminded himself grimly- Icha Icha book and kept his hand as it was dealt. After a brief moment of Gai switching his hand he heard a boisterous laugh from his self-proclaimed 'eternal rival'.
"A royal flush! I win, Kakashi!"
Kakashi let out the biggest sigh he could muster and made to put his book on the ground to clear his hands. As he brought them up to his mask he subtly made handsigns. When they both reached the top of his mask he did the final seal and cast a minor genjutsu on Gai, which made him believe he pulled down his mask. After a quick second the genjutsu ended and Gai was smiling victoriously… until Lee grabbed his attention.
"Gai-sensei, I did not see him pull down his mask… and from how no one is paying Kakashi-sensei their most youthful attention I imagine they did not either."
"Well Gai, you never said you wanted to see my real face." Some people are too easy to fool. Great in students, like Naruto, but bad in senseis.
"Damn you and your perfectly-chiseled jawline, Kakashi!"
(Tsunade* and Kakashi)
The Godaime Hokage carefully lifted herself off the ground, suffering a splitting headache. She was grateful for the quiet more than anything else once she saw Naruto was gone. I love the little gaki but Naruto plus headache equals pain. She was still a little drunk but the room wasn't spinning like it had been earlier. She took a deep, relaxed breath when she was suddenly deafened by a loud cry from Gai.
"Damn you and your perfectly-chiseled jawline, Kakashi!"
Wait, did Gai see his face? No, or else he wouldn't be frustrated like that… come to think of it I always wondered what he was hiding under there.
She saw the silver-haired jonin walk lazily toward where she was tenuously standing. When he got within a few feet Tsunade made her move. "Hatake Kakashi."
"Hai, Hokage-sama?"
"Show me your real, physical face, unobscured by both your headband and your customary masks." I know how this guy minces his words. Two can play at that game!
The look on his face realized he couldn't agree then weasel his way out. He looked as though he might decline when she decided to add a bit more pressure. "Otherwise I won't give your team any missions above D rank for the next month and a half."
She heard him mutter "Naruto would kill me if that happened!" Thank you, gaki!
He looked around cautiously to make sure that no one else was around before he sighed and made to remove his mask. He first pulled off his Konoha hitai-ate, revealing his Sharingan eye, before he also pulled off his sole remaining mask.
Tsunade's jaw dropped as she looked at Kakashi's bare face. He's…. he's…!
Anothervoice spoke up, "Kakashi-senpai, you are an incredibly handsome man."
Shizune!
Kakashi's eyes widened in surprise. I guess Kakashi's slipping up… unless… "Shizune-chan, were you hiding from Kakashi when he came by?"
"Uh…" She blushed a little. She looked again at Kakashi's face. "Kakashi-senpai, would you maybe like to get something to eat, sometime?"
Tsunade raised an amused eyebrow. She always was concerned about being single. "I guess I'll just leave you two alone." She chuckled to herself as she walked away and listened to Kakashi stammering response. She swore that, in a roundabout way, he said sure.
(A/N; I really didn't plan this whatsoever, but I just suddenly thought of it as I started writing the bit with Tsunade. I think I could have fun writing about Kakashi and Shizune)
(Sai and Tsunade)
Sai sat alone in a corner musing over his newest painting. He did a little touch up then nodded when he deemed it complete. Carrying it over to the person it was made for he put on his usual fake smile… but there was maybe a hint of real happiness there?
He slowly presented it to the Hokage as she walked about with a grin on her face… which quickly disappeared as she swung a fist at the dark-haired man. He narrowly dodged and ran quickly away from the irate Slug Princess of Konoha. She glanced again at the painting then looked away from embarrassment.
It was a very detailed image of her kissing her apprentice underneath the mistletoe… she'd have Naruto Rasengan it later.
Hinata shifted uncomfortably, finally noticing the lack of warmth. She groggily opened her eyes and gazed about the room. "Naruto-kun?" She stood up and walked around aimlessly, still too tired to remember where she was. The only thing she really remembered was that she had been with Naruto, and now she wasn't. She turned the nearest corner and began to walk outside. (A/N; You know when you're so tired that you pretty much pass out, and then you can't remember what happened? It's like that.)
She saw Naruto and Iruka very close to her, although she paid the latter no mind. She ran up to him, happily shouting as she caught him in a flying hug. "Naruto-kun!" The momentum caused Naruto to spin her around. When they finally stopped Hinata held him tighter… until she remembered where they were and who else was with them. She regretfully broke away blushing while she waved to Iruka. "Konichiwa, Iruka-sensei."
"Ah, young love. Just keep Naruto in line, okay Hinata?"
Hinata was confused but just nodded. Naruto took her hand and the couple walked inside together, leaving the older Chunin alone. Naruto and Hinata took up the same spots they had been in earlier, only this time Hinata was awake to fully enjoy the situation… and to blush furiously when Kiba walked over to her and Naruto.
"Hey, Hinata! You're awake!"
Not moving from her comfortable position reclining against Naruto despite the embarrassment Hinata just said. "Hai, Kiba-kun." I need to get over this shyness when I'm around Naruto-kun! I have to be able to be with him in public without fainting!
"Everyone's wanted to talk to you."
"Really?" Why would everyone want to talk to me?
"Yeah! Ino-chan and Tenten-san said something about when you fought Pein, and Tsunade and the other's wanted to hear about it."
"Okay."
Kiba turned to get the other's when Naruto talked to him. "Kiba! I think we can drop the honorifics. After all the crap we've been through together I'd say we can at least do that."
"Whatever baka."
Kiba walked out of the room and began to round everyone up. Once he was gone Naruto pulled Hinata closer to him. She closed her eyes blissfully as she just sat and rested against Naruto's broad chest, their arms wrapped around each other in a loving embrace. Eventually the small group gathered in the room with the couple, and sat around attentively… except for two other people.
As Shizune and Kakashi walked in Hinata smirked at pointed them out to Naruto who started chuckling himself. "I don't know who I'm more surprised with, Kakashi-sensei or Shizune-nee-chan."
Sakura was the last to sit down. Once she was comfortable she looked up with an intrigued glint in her eye. "So? Tell us everything!"
Hinata looked to Naruto, indicating that he should start. The 'Hero of Konoha' took a deep breath before he said "It was like this."
Pein stood over him, continuing his speech. "The world of the Ninja is ruled by hatred. How would you confront this hatred, in order to create peace?
Naruto looked at Pein with contempt, but also understanding. He had the right goal, but the wrong way of achieving it. His plan for peace could never work; not if it cost him Ero-sennin. He grunted from the pain of another chakra blade being stabbed into him.
"I've avoided any vital spots and I've kept them shallow, but you will no longer be able to move on your own."
The loud voice of the remaining toad cried out. "Snap out of it! No matter what he says you must not listen! You're the Child of Prophecy! The savior of this world! Jiraiya and Pa sacrificed themselves because they believed that! So you cannot lose! If you give up now I won't forgive you!" (A/N; Naruto doesn't really remember this, he just vaguely paraphrases)
Pein blasted her away effortlessly. "Noisy frog."
"Teme!"
He turned to Naruto, aiming his hand threateningly. "I guess I'll be taking you now."
Naruto heard quick footsteps before he saw Hyuuga Hinata leap over him and attempt to attack Pein. She looked at Pein and angrily shouted "I won't let you hurt Naruto-kun anymore!"
"Reinforcements?"
Naruto was angry; no one was supposed to try and help him! "Why'd you come out here? Get away quickly, you're no match…"
"I know. I'm just being… selfish."
"What are you talking about? Don't put yourself in danger like this!"
Hinata began to recite her speech to her waiting friends when Naruto recited it with her.
"I'm here because I want to be. This time, I'm going to save you, Naruto-kun. I was always crying, giving up before even trying. I made the wrong turns so many times, but you helped me find my way and take the correct path, Naruto-kun. I always chased after you. I wanted to catch up to you. I wanted to walk beside you all the time. I want to be at your side, always. You changed me, Naruto-kun! Your smile is what saved me! That's why I'm not afraid to die, if it means I can protect you! Because… I love you, Naruto-kun!"
She looked over at her boyfriend, surprise on her face and tears in her eyes. "You remembered?"
He looked at her intensely, emotion shining bright in his clear blue eyes, "Of course I remembered, hime. How could I ever forget?"
Hinata gave a small cry of joy and kissed him, this time not caring that they were surrounded by their friends despite the blush that tinted her cheeks. When she broke away she saw all of the women with tears in their eyes; Tsunade included. Even Shikamaru, the lazy genius of Konoha, seemed a bit touched. (A/N; it may just be me because I'm a very emotional guy, but how could anyone not find that beautiful? Hinata's speech, I mean. I understand if you don't like my bit afterwards.)
She turned back to the man whom she was holding. "Aishiteru, Naruto-kun."
He whispered to himself "I was going to say this tomorrow, but…" He spoke loudly so everyone would hear, but he was trapped looking into Hinata's beautiful lavender eyes. "Aishiteru, Hinata-chan!"
She felt her heart nearly explode as she drew him into another deep kiss, this time not even blushing as the people around them were cheering for them. For so long I've wanted him to say that! It's been nice these past few days but now? I can't remember being happier!
While this was going on Kakashi had people back up and clear space, although no one but Gai understood why. Once a large area was clear Kakashi whistled to get Naruto's attention. "Didn't you have something else planned?"
Grinning, Naruto stood and took Hinata by the hand. As soon as Hinata was standing up she felt herself being pulled against him; one hand on his shoulder, the other clasping his. He nudged her leg, which earned him a confused look until he started stepping forward and to the side, beginning a basic box step. Soon they were gracefully gliding across the area cleared by Kakashi, the couple looking into each others' eyes the whole time. Did he learn this… for me?
As if sensing her thoughts he whispered "I spent all day trying to get this down. I wanted today to be special."
"Who taught you?"
"Kurenai-sensei."
Hinata nearly missed a step out of shock –as well as frustration that Kurenai wasn't taking it easy with the pregnancy- but the negative thoughts were swept away as quickly as she was. They danced for a minute more before they closed, Naruto spinning her rapidly before dipping her low to the ground. While they were leaned over Naruto whispered to her again. "Don't forget to come by tomorrow. I have another present in mind besides the one I'm going to buy you."
"Hai, Naruto-kun." They pulled up and looked at the room full of shocked people.
Neji grinned, he actually grinned, when he saw Hinata's face. "If only you were this graceful on the battlefield, Naruto."
The women congratulated Hinata on finally getting her dream come true while the men congratulated Naruto on being the first one to get a girlfriend, although Naruto and Choji argued that that was Shikamaru. The Nara of course denied dating Temari, with that same lazy detachedness he showed with everything.
The party continued on after that, but was uneventful. Eventually the only guests still in the Yamanaka home were Sakura and the two Hyuugas.
They cleaned, as they said they would, but mostly the night consisted of the other three girls questioning her about her and Naruto. As they were about to settle into bed Hinata looked at Sakura and wholeheartedly told her "Arigato, Sakura-chan."
"What for?"
"If it hadn't been for your plan I might not have had the courage to talk to Naruto a few days ago, and then none of this could have happened. So, thank you!"
Ino was intrigued. "What plan?"
They explained the plan as sleep claimed them. Hinata's last thoughts were about the future she hoped to have with Naruto. Uzumaki Hinata… I like that.
As Naruto practically skipped home he spotted a furniture store out of the corner of his eye. Bedroom furniture… He quickly memorized the address, formulating a plan. I'm going to give Hinata-chan a gift she won't forget.
The Kyuubi of course knew what he was thinking. Smooth, kit. If only you could come up with plans like that in battle, it'd increase my chances of living.
What's up with you and Neji and insulting my combat skills? He shook his head and wandered to his apartment. He had something big for tomorrow.
Seeing as how I word for word copied some of his work in that flashback, I feel doubly obliged to say I DO NOT OWN NARUTO, ALL ASSOCIATED CHARACTERS AND LOCATIONS ARE PROPERTY OF MASASHI KISHIMOTO.
So… this chapter was a doozy! Almost as long as the first and third chapters combined! Tell me what you think!
First, yes, I had Hinata pass out as a cheap plot device to explore other characters PoV's. I actually had fun writing those though, especially the part with Anko and Kakashi. Tell me which of those was your favorite, if you liked them.
Second, what do you think of my idea to pair Shizune and Kakashi? I know it may seem kind of quick for them to go on a date, but I'll explain that later.
Third, I was planning starting a much longer, more serious Naruto fanfiction that used this as a precursor for the purposes of establishing romances and how Naruto and Hinata got together. And by serious I don't mean that it'll have less humor dotted throughout, but it'll include missions, the Akatsuki, Orochimaru, etc.
Fourth, if you can correctly guess why Naruto wants to go to a furniture store to get Hinata's gift, I'll send you a message saying you were right as well as let you make an appearance in the aforementioned follow-up story.
Fifth, tell me what you thought of 'moody Kurenai' teaching Naruto to dance?
That's all until the next chapter! After that there's just the Epilogue and Hinata-chan's Konohagakure Christmas is done! Ja ne!