Double upload today…and maybe even another chapter depending upon how slow it is at work. Told you all that I hate having to wait for stories!
I also want to apologize for using the lead in about Naruto and Hinata "training" together. It seems that it is a popular way to get the two together in most of the fanfics I've read. The major problem is that this is THE perfect way to tie into other areas…and I'll explore those areas as this story moves on. I also want to let everyone know to relax…this story isn't going to be the friendliest in the world (as far as what happens to the characters) but it will come together in the end…whether or not it will end "happy" is in the eye of the beholder
Also, I apologize for the chapters being short…and the lack of action. I hope to remedy that as the story continues. I envision a LOT of action…I may even be able to squeeze out a few tears…or at least a few angered curse-words. Ha!
"Hinata!" Naruto stopped spinning and took on a very serious expression. "Where is Kiba and Shino?"
"They're on a mission." Hinata looked to the side and poked her index fingers together.
"Why aren't you with them?" Naruto was confused.
"The Hyuga clan observes a special ceremony for three days of the year barring times of war or S-ranked missions…so Tenten was sent in my place."
"Ah! So that's why Bushy-Brows was there!" Naruto then looked confused again. "How did you make it to my test?"
Hinata smiled as she stole glances from Naruto out of the corner of her eyes. "The ceremony was over two days ago…the B ranked mission that Kiba, Shino, and Tenten were sent on was several days journey away."
"Ohhh…" Naruto looked around. He then noticed Jeraiya walking towards him. "Hey! Pervert! Over here!"
Jeraiya groned and slapped a hand to his forehead. Why does he still call me that?
The Sannin walked up to the two Chuunin and grinned. "Hello there! Naruto…we've got work to do."
Naruto grinned. "A mission?" He practically danced as he pestered his teacher for details.
"No, numbskull…training." Jeraiya's eyes strayed to the side where a pair of women were walking.
"Hey! Pervo! Pay attention! What do you mean, 'training'? I've been training enough for the Chuunin exams! I want to go on a mission!"
"Well…the Hokage was not pleased with your chosen method for defeating your opponent in the final match." Jeraiya glanced pointedly over to Hinata as he stressed a single word in his sentence.
Naruto understood immediately and also stole a glance over to the Hyuga. "He had a lot of chakra…and…uh…"
"And you became angry! You didn't focus…well…not on the right thing, anyway."
"Everything turned out alright!" Naruto grinned. "I stayed completely in control." Naruto glanced nervously at Hinata again.
"Not completely…and that's what we're going to work on." Jeraiya looked to Hinata. "Hinata Hyuga…"
Hinata started at being addressed by the legendary sannin. "Yes, Jeraiya-sensei?"
Jeraiya looked at the young woman before him. Attractive, strong, able…all three words described the girl perfectly. Her devotion to Naruto was also of paramount importance. Although Sakura already knew about the Kyuubi sealed within Naruto, Jeraiya questioned her ability to devote herself completely to Naruto's training. "Tomorrow…you'll meet Naruto and I for training purposes. I'll need your assistance."
Hinata was stunned. "Yes…of course, sensei."
Naruto was thoroughly confused. "What kind of training is this?"
"Hinata is going to help me drain you of your chakra. It's time you learn how to save some of your…abilities…as a last resort. It's for your own good, Naruto. Hinata, I will speak with Kurenai to let her know of my plans for you." With that, Jeraiya turned and followed after the two ladies he'd seen earlier.
"Hmph!" Naruto scrunched up his face and pouted.
Hinata was elated at the chance to be near Naruto…but was saddened by his reaction. She also worried about what she would have to do to "drain" Naruto of his chakra.
"Ah, well…at least I don't have to be alone with that pervert!" Naruto grinned and waved. "I should get ready…I have a surprise for Jeraiya-sensei! See you tomorrow, Hinata!"
"N…Naruto…" Hinata spoke far too softly for the blonde to hear as he dashed off down the street. She lowered her gaze and reflected on what had just transpired…and began to worry about what tomorrow would bring.