ok, just going to take a minute or two to address a few things.
First and absolutely foremost, I want to thank each and every person that has reviewed my story thus far. Your feedback has been awesome! It lets me know folks are enjoying my story.
Thanks to those who pointed out my error on the Rasengan reference in Chapter 1. I will have that corrected momentarily.
Now I am going to address a couple of things sent to me in their reviews.
Folks, this is an AU. Which means, "Alternate Universe." Somethings about the characters are going to be slightly off from canon. Or they are more than canon has implied. I cannot count the number of stories I have read since coming here that reveal the characters to having more depth and detail emotionally and psychologically than shown in the anime/manga,(i.e Smart/Dark/Strong/Godly/etc... Naruto). And that's without the author stating it in their summary. I am basing the character's actions and thoughts on how I interpret them as thinking and acting. While I appreciate the constructive criticisms, please also understand that this story is my take on how things would progress.
Telling me how a scene should go or how to literally write the story, isn't a critique. It's you trying to alter my way of storytelling to match what works for you. My style of writing isn't the same as others so I please ask that you respect that as I respect other's writing styles.
Now, while the explanation was concise and to the point, please remember that this story takes place during Shippuden. The characters have matured and grown all on their own as they reach their late teens. And yes I do remember how it was for me during that phase but these aren't your run of the mill kids. These teens/young adults are NINJA. With the very nature of their profession they are forced to mature ahead of what we may consider a normal time frame. That's both physically and psychologically. Before you go into how a character should act or say that I'm not portraying them accurately, please take that into account.
Now about the fight with Hiashi...which seems to be sticking point for a few folks. He is a Clan Head and based on what I could find, An Elite Jouunin. Meaning he IS a tough customer on his own. To fight someone of that level without killing or using killing techniques is often much harder. So Naruto had to restrict himself severely to ensure he didn't just kill him from a glancing blow of Frog Kumite nor could he use his strongest techniques. And he hasn't mastered the Rasengan yet. Which means he still powers it all the way up. He hasn't figured out how to form it at various power levels depending on his intention. So to call the fight, as I depicted it, pointless, disappointing, or unrealistic is hogwash.
At no time have I written in a way to insult anyone's intelligence and I would appreciate the same consideration. Hiashi did something no one has ever done to him since Neji at the Chuunins...he attacked Naruto's Chakra Network directly. Which is something even he would have to take time to recover from. Pain's attacks on him were physical in impact.
The other matter...Naruto does have a strong will, I won't deny it. But at no time has he tried to override the mental capacity of another person. To make another person see and experience what HE wishes them to. Which IS a key component to pulling off a Genjutsu.
And the note of Kakashi using the Rasengan, I figured since I didn't see it mention exactly HOW he learned the technique, that he had copied it at some point from watching Minato perform it during the Third Great Ninja War. Please grant me some license...
Enough said on that. I do hope that everyone is still enjoying the story and will continue to read it after my having said my piece.
Now...on with the story!
This story is pure fan-fiction. The characters and locations are the sole property of Shonen Jump and the series' creator, Masashi Kishimoto. At no time is this fiction an intent to infringe upon their rights nor properties.
It took Naruto a few weeks, actually just over a month, before Tsunade gave him clearance to leave the hospital. He underwent every test they threw at him just to prove he was capable. Then he began re-training to slowly build up his Chakra and mix in Nature Energy. Which yielded surprising results. Not only was he as fit as ever physically but his Chakra capacity had doubled. Possibly due to his Core becoming even stronger than before the fight. What the doctors and everyone else didn't know was that he trained even harder whenever he was alone. So when he was finally released, he was stronger than before. His build further developed. Not to mention he had sprouted a couple more inches. At nearly seventeen, he was almost even with Kakashi-sensei's height and his build was thicker in the chest and arms as well as his legs. Not to mention his hair had gotten a touch longer. He had decided not to cut it as it kinda reminded him of his father.
Looking around at all the now finished buildings as he walked, he knew his clothes didn't exactly fit anymore as the fabric was sort of stretched on his frame. Checking Gama-chan, he counted his funds to see if he could afford a new set of clothes. After doing so, he paid closer attention to his surroundings. And realized he had walked to Memorial Field. His smile fading somewhat as he watched children moving with polite speed from headstone to headstone, putting out flowers, purifying the grave markers with holy water, and saying a prayer for the soul of the departed. It was a weekly task assigned to the children who had been marked as potential Ninja Academy students. Teaching them the importance of respecting those who had come before and setting the bar for the level of dedication that will be expected of them.
Taking a moment to put his wallet away, he walked in between the arrow straight lines til he stood before the gigantic marker that read a single word, "Hokage," yet had four name plates spaced evenly apart. He started with the Shodai and paused to pray before each one. When he got to the Yondaime, he took a bit longer. It was only right he spend a little extra time honoring his father. He just wish he knew more about him. He was still waiting for the information he had asked Shizune for, but hadn't gotten around to inquiring about it with everything that had happened since he put in his initial request. Maybe he should follow up on that after he got some new clothes and checked to see if he even had a home anymore...
"Na...Naruto-kun?" a soft voice called to him from his right. He turned his head and saw Hinata walking forward hesitantly. As though afraid to intrude on his prayers. He smiled and held out his arms to her and sighed when she happily slid into his embrace before the tomb of his father. His turned to face the nameplate and said in a very soft voice. "I know I haven't been here to see you since I learned the truth, Dad. But here I am...I want you to meet my girlfriend, Hyuuga Hinata. Hinata? this is Namikaze Minato...my Dad."
She found herself staring at the tomb and bowed formally. "Hello. It is a great honor to meet you at last sir. I love your son and will be sure that he is happy." she said with a serious undertone. As though she was making a promise to his deceased father.
He blinked away tears as he knelt down and brushed aside some stray grass. As Hinata knelt beside him, he paused with eyes closed then clapped his hands together three times softly. A moment later, he pulled out an incense stick and lit it carefully with a match. Rising, he bowed and waited for Hinata to slip her arm supportively around his waist. As they walked away, he sniffed quietly as he was still trying to get used to the idea of being the son of a venerated Hero. He felt Hinata's arm squeeze his waist and he turned to face her. Leaning down and kissing her deeply. It wasn't the usual kiss they shared it was a real kiss and his hand came up to caress her cheek with his knuckles and his other hand...drifted lower, simply resting on her backside.
Eyes closed, savoring the kiss as it changed, she almost squeaked in pleasure at the new sensation of his hand resting on her rear. Accepting the deeper kiss and adding her own feelings in her responses. Her hands clenched at his jacket at first, then they rose up to curl around his neck, pulling him further down to within her reach and she rose on tiptoes. Never mind they were at the entryway of the Field. Never mind there no doubt several children trying not to gawk at them. Forget that this was hardly the place...all she knew was that her body was responding to the feel of herself pressed against him. Clothing was fast becoming an overrated barrier as her desires began to rise. She sensed and actually could feel that his desire was making itself known and not just by how his fingers tightened ever so slightly on her rump...She groaned in a gaspy breath when the kiss ended, head titled upwards, eyes cloudy as she felt her feet settle back on the ground.
His own breathing was a little ragged as he felt his body reacting to their shared passion. His heart beating fast and the urge to kiss her again and again nearly overpowering. Her groan almost undid his resolve. Yet he managed to ease back just a little and clear the fog from his mind, Whooooo...that's intense...maybe I know more than I thought I did...wow. He cleared his throat but never looked away from her eyes, liking how they began to focus a little bit at a time though her arms never left his neck. He could get used to this... "Ummm I have to get some new clothes, these don't fit quite right anymore." he said quietly just saying what came to his mind,"Plus I have to see if I even have a home anymore...With Pain's attack..." he stopped when she giggled at him,snuggling her head against his chest and the fingers of her right hand traced circles in his neck hair. "What?" he asked with a smile in his voice.
"I checked for you, I hope you don't mind...While you were recovering, I went to where your apartment used to be. Your landlord said you will always have a place to stay. He even changed the layout of the building to suit you better. He said...that the Hero of the Leaf shouldn't live in a tiny apartment so he had the design changed. So that you would be able to grow there and..." she blushed heavily before whispering, "and... and...have a family..." her voice was almost too soft to hear at the end.
"Huh? No, I don't mind...He what? I was barely able to afford the rent before the attack...why would he...what do you mean..." he paused and his arms gripped her waist as he stared at her..."I don't have...a family..." but he sensed what the man was trying to do..."Lets go and take a look...It can't hurt can it?" he asked worrying now over how he was going to afford it on a Ninja's pay if the man had gone overboard. Space would be at an even greater premium now...
She stepped back feeling suddenly very shy at the prospect of seeing his new place for the first time. So to delay it, she said, "And you do need a new wardrobe, Naruto-kun." she tugged on his jacket and felt very little give. "This is too tight. It must be binding you. I know of a shop that is open now. The tailor is a Hyuuga and he has very reasonable rates." she took his hand firmly, and began to lead him to the shop.
Naruto laughed softly and followed her lead. This new side of her...he liked it. It was almost like she was trying to look out for him. It was so very different than what he was used to. It was, in fact, a complete opposite. He was so used to being on his own. Looking after himself. He wasn't alone anymore...and he had to admit, it was nice.
It didn't take long before they were outside a small shop with a "Now Open" sign on the door. They stepped in and were immediately greeted by a slender man with pins stuck in his sleeves and a tape measure wrapped around his neck. His smile brightened even more as he said,"Lady Hinata! Welcome! Welcome indeed to my shop!" he turned to look at Naruto and his demeanor changed...
Naruto tensed automatically in anticipation of the usual treatment he got from villagers if he dared to even peek in their windows. It was why he had always gone outside the village to get clothes. Places that didn't know him or of him. His hand tightened around Hinata's, preparing to get out of there in a hurry if there was a need.
Hinata didn't know what was causing Naruto's reaction. He had suddenly tensed and looked ready to run for his life. Then she remembered...she only relaxed when the tailor spoke.
"Uzumaki Naruto! I am deeply honored that you have come to my shop." he bowed from the waist in genuine respect and his smile,if possible, went even brighter. He looked over the pair and nodded, "A matching wardrobe perhaps?" he inquired the man's eyes studying them both intently even as he made measurements mentally. She's a four...possibly a three with her height, waist, and bust...as for him...this will be interesting...
Naruto relaxed and his free hand came up and ran through his hair in embarrassment as the man lavish his greetings and attentions. "Ummm, actually it's me that needs some new clothes...I hit a growth spurt.." he said slowly and nearly jumped out of his skin as the man clapped his hands suddenly and ushered them to a sitting area and partially drew a curtain. For privacy or to hide the fact he was there...he wasn't sure.
"Very good sir! I will have to take your measurements. I take it you need them right away? Of course you do...You can't be seen leaving here in clothes that don't fit. Just unseemly and I do want you to look your best...Lady Hinata? would you care for tea?" he snapped his fingers and a clerk arrived to offer steaming tea. "Please have a seat my Lady and we can get this started..." he turned back to Naruto and said in a firm tone. "Now young man...remove your jacket and sandals...I think yes...the pants can stay on...We can work around those..." he noticed that Hinata's eyes had gotten huge and was beginning to flush.
Naruto...no jacket? Oooohhhhhhh...don't faint. don't faint...please don't faint... she repeated over and over in her mind as she shakily lifted the tea cup to her lips. She averted her eyes as Naruto began to remove the jacket,but couldn't resist peeking. What she saw made her eyes go even wider and he had her full attention. His back was to her so she drank in as much detail as she could stand.
Naruto set aside the jacket and the fishnet shirt he wore underneath to reveal a V shaped upper body that came from intense physical training and excellent health. His shoulders were broader than she had thought they'd be and his arms had that thick lean muscle that was a norm for athletes and ninja alike. Though his build suggested it was possible to be thicker if he pushed his training to another level. He squatted down and removed his sandals one at a time,not noticing that he was giving Hinata a show as he jiggled slightly to get the shoes off his feet. He straightened and stood still, arms outstretched as the tailor took his measurements and read them off to his assistant. When he turned around,he saw a strange look cross Hinata's face. He couldn't really describe it as anything except hungry. Like he was a slab of barbecue and she hadn't eaten in days.
The tailor didn't notice any of this as he worked. A true professional tailor his mind was focused on his work. To him, making clothes fit properly on a customer was as important to him as successful completion of a mission was to a Shinobi. He did look up when his aid sighed more than once, her eyes on Naruto. He flicked his tape at her, making her blush slightly then focus on her notes. Hmphf...
When Naruto turned to face her, Hinata froze like a deer caught by torchlight. Unable to move anything but her eyes and she was transfixed by the sight before her. His chest was evenly toned with his arms and back. Chest muscles were visibly defined yet not overly developed. His abs were a tight set of six muscles with a hint of it going to eight if you included the laterals. She had the sudden urge to run her fingers over his collarbone, his chest and those abs...then again, why touch when tasting is much more tempting...her mind said suggestively and she had to blink more than once as she felt her flush deepening. She barely caught his question and she was suddenly fanning herself to cool off. "You...you...look just fine Naruto-kun." Her mental self was almost wiping drool adding,Oh yes...fine indeed and you're all mine...
The tailor nodded at something his assistant said and shoo-ed her off, holding the clipboard with its basic diagram of a person and his measurements. The girl returned handing over a robe which he then gave to Naruto to put drew back the curtain as Naruto took a seat next to Hinata. "Now then, is there a particular look you want?" he asked calmly, ready to add more notes.
"The same as before I think." Naruto said simply,"I just need a new jumpsuit is all. I don't need much. Just enough to get by." which said it all really. He never had a lot to begin with. Only what he needed to survive.
"Naruto-kun..." Hinata said softly, her hand coming to rest on his arm. She sensed what was going through his mind as she looked to the tailor. "Three sets. Same design as his old, please. And...make sure the back emblem and the shoulder piece are the same as well." When he looked to her gratefully, she felt sad inside as it made her realize just how hard his life has been. He never had anyone take him clothes shopping til Jiraiya and even then it was out of sheer necessity. No one looked after him, no one had cared to make sure that he had more than just the one outfit...yet he persevered. He endured...he thrived. "Maybe another time we could come back and look into something more casual?" she suggested and nearly laughed as Naruto nodded but looked at his wallet. He thought he had enough and was glad he had been so frugal when traveling with Jiraiya especially since the lech had tried so many times to spend all of his cash on "research" and not use his own.
It only took a few hours and several fittings, but eventually the pair walked out of the shop, Naruto carrying a two bundles and wearing his new jumpsuit. It WAS identical to his old one,which the tailor had promptly thrown into a trash bin. He was still in a slight state of shock over the deferential treatment he received but was chalking it up to Hinata presence and the tailor being of her clan. Still the new clothing felt extremely comfortable and it fit well. So he made his mind up to return later on when he had time and money for other clothes. He caught the direction of his thoughts and mentally smiled at himself, If I keep this up, I may actually turn into something respectable...I'm changing in ways I never thought I could...I owe it to Hinata. She deserves someone she can be proud to walk alongside.
Heading down the familiar pathways to where his old apartment stood, Naruto's mind was caught up by thoughts of Hinata's father. The trial, short as it had been, had been a simple and direct. With the reports read and taken into consideration along with his own request, Lord Hiashi had been cleared. Though after, when he had thanked Naruto for understanding, he had taken a moment to let the man know that while the incident and error was forgiven...it wasn't forgotten. A subtle warning to the man that from then on, Naruto would be on guard with him. Not what the young man had wanted in any way, but there it was.
He listened and kept up his end of the conversation with Hinata as best as he could even though his mind wandered. When he saw the apartment building where he lived, he smiled. That is until the landlord came out and gave him his keys. The man and his wife that is...they were praising him so much, he found himself blushing profusely. Which turned into shock when they showed him the interior of HIS new home. They had taken one half of the unit and turned it into a single family home. The lower level a living room, guest bedroom, half bath, and full kitchen with a master bedroom and full bath upstairs. His mind was reeling, and his thoughts showed, How the hell am I going to afford this? This building used to have four apartments. Now its down to two joined homes... Seeing the expression on his face, they waited while Hinata looked about and they told him bluntly, his rent wouldn't change. In fact, they had been wanting to renovate the building to this style for some time. Especially since Naruto had been one of only three tenants. The other two had moved to different housing right before Pain's attack. So they took this time to rebuild it the way they wanted. He nodded his understanding and readily accepted the terms,moved by their generosity.
Hinata gave them time to talk over particulars while she checked the place out. She didn't feel uncomfortable at all, she realized. It's just a house, after all...Empty right now so i don't see it as Naruto's home. Not until he moves in at least. She heartily approved of the layout as it maximized the available space yet left plenty of room so it didn't feel cramped. Her ears caught part of the talk and she smiled. Knowing that her bewildered boyfriend still hadn't grasped just how much the villager's opinion of him had changed. She was willing to bet the landlord would be getting offers quickly on the other home once it got out that Naruto had moved back in. Walking back to where Naruto was, she snuggled against his side and listened quietly as they finished up their business. Waiting until they were alone to ask,"What do you think?"
"I think...I think...I don't know what to think. I haven't changed any, I know it deep down. But its like everyone..." he looked at his hands unable to say it right.
"You feel as though everyone is different. That they are treating you differently than before." she concluded for him and stepped in front of him,taking his hands and placing them on her hips. Her hands rose up to skim his chest and fingers intertwined behind his neck as she looked into his eyes. "They are. You never realized it,but as you continued to fight for them, for the village, you changed their minds and hearts. Every battle you fought made them change. They all acknowledge you now. Now your Naruto to them...not that fox-kid they avoided. They care for you as they would their own. You...I've never seen anyone gain this level of admiration and trust short of the Sondaime and now Lady Tsunade. It's an implicit and absolute trust. You deserve it because you earned it on your own." she finished earnestly, her words slowly spoken so that he got the undertones and just how much she wanted him to understand and accept this truth. She sighed when he stepped in and hugged her close. His breath slipping through her hair. She couldn't help but feel loved and secure in his arms.
"I know you're right, it's just so hard to reconcile the changes. I mean, to me, it wasn't long ago when people would throw things just to get me away from their stores or shops. Now I'm someone they want inside...From being a joke or hated, they look at me with smiles and welcomes...I just need time..." his words softly spoken but even he heard the heartache in them. It was a poison deep inside and now that he had begun, it poured out. "Kids avoided me because their parents told them to. Adults stepped back so my shadow wouldn't cross theirs. They would look at me with those cold dead eyes. Contempt or outright hatred on their faces. Not to mention the Ninjas. They looked at me like a bomb waiting to go off. Always watching me and judging. Until Iruka-sensei, Only the Old Man looked at me...then I was on Kakashi's Team. I had teammates. But they didn't see me. I made Sasuke-teme my rival because he was so much like me. Alone. But he was cool and good at everything. If I could get him to acknowledge me...I worked so hard for it. I met Jiraiya and he looked at me...me...took me as his student. Suddenly I had a teacher that no one could look down on. Then Sasuke left and it felt like everything I had tried to build had fallen apart. So to grow stronger and bring him back, I learned a technique that no one had been able to master since Yondaime. I met Granny...brought her back to the village...I...I...I..." he stopped as he realized he was kneeling on the floor, crying into Hinata's hair.
She was crying also, knowing just how much he needed to let it out. To let go of all the pain in his heart. If he ever wanted to move on and live free, he had to get rid of the pain. She just never imagined how much it would hurt her to hear it. To hear him recount his life prior to entering the Ninja Academy. When he slid to the floor, she knelt with him, pulling him tighter against her, her hands brushing back his hair and simply being there for him. Knowing that there was no one else he would trust with this moment, she felt honored and so very happy he had opened up to her. She crooned to his ear, comforting sounds as he poured out his soul to her. "That's why...I never knew the real reason you wouldn't give up on him. It's not because of a promise. It's because to you, Sasuke-kun is Family. He's the only one who could ever understand the loneliness you've dealt with your entire life. He was an outcast for a different reason, but an outcast none the less. And when he left...you were alone all over again. My poor Naruto-kun...I never knew...never suspected. I am sooo sorry..."
He never opened up like this. Never. Not even when Jiraiya was killed. Suddenly now, he was telling Hinata everything. When he was finished, he felt raw inside. Scoured from dumping it on her. And at the same time, he felt...clean. Lighter. He pulled back and said, "No...you have nothing to apologize for." he said as he gently wiped away every tear. This too was new. It made his heart swell with love that she cried for him. Simply because she cared for him to that extent. He knew somehow...that because of her, he would never be tempted to walk the path of revenge again.
It wasn't long after,the couple found themselves walking towards the Hyuuga compound. With his newly found serenity, he strode with a inner confidence that had nothing to do with combat skill. His arm loosely encircled his girlfriend's waist. He really...really...enjoyed how it felt when she mirrored him and her cheek rested against his chest. They didn't talk as they paused outside the gates of her home. They just turned mutually to face one another. And they kissed deeply, neither saying their farewells.
When they parted finally, she paused to look back at him from just inside the gates. She nodded and said quietly "I love you". Smiling widely at his response before disappearing inside.
He had said it back and was unabashed over doing so. He didn't hide his feelings before from her, so he wouldn't now. His answering smile faded when her father stepped out from around the gate, frowning at him. "Hyuuga-sama." he said with a respectful bow of his head. He knew the man didn't like the situation as it stood between them but then neither did he. But standing there waiting for his daughter to return..."It isn't dark yet,sir. And she is home safe and sound."
"Uzumaki-san." he replied returning the gesture as he unfolded his arms and did his best to stop frowning. He knew he underestimated the man before him. The censure he continued to endure from his clan was proof of that. But he was still her father. "So it isn't. and so she is..." he paused for a moment, "Could you at least restrain yourself from kissing her like that in public? I don't want to anyone to think she has loose morals..."
His eyes narrowed at the slight yet he could see the man's point. Outside perspective could be very different from the reality. "I understand,sir. Your daughter is highly regarded by not just your clan but by many in the village as a whole. I wouldn't tarnish her reputation for anything." he moved to leave but was stopped when the man asked a simple question. "Sir?"
"Would you care to join us for dinner? It's not a trap...my wife has requested your presence at our table this evening." he paused and thought about his next words. The trial was over and while he had been publicly cleared, the Clan had been less than forgiving privately. In a meeting barely hours after the trial had ended, they had levied their own punishments. His ability to make decisions for the Clan had not been returned. Instead a small cabinet had been arranged to handle all Clan matters for the foreseeable future. Their first action had been to return him to his home, under guard, with instructions to never leave it without a proper escort. He was to be a public mouthpiece so that none outside the Clan would know of his disgrace nor that his "bodyguard" was in fact his keeper. "It's been made abundantly clear to me that my perspective is clouded where you are concerned. I would like to correct that if you will allow me." he finished it with a blank expression yet his sincerity was genuine.
Naruto knew the man was trying to mend the bridge...If he could only be as certain there wasn't a pitfall on the bridge. But he nodded and said,"When should I return sir?" Thinking on how much time he'd have to get cleaned up and all.
"Actually..." he grimaced, "She wants you here immediately. She is more than a little insistent. You can use our facilities to freshen up and I believe Neji is standing by with a change in wardrobe. He said he knew someone close to your size..." Right there, Naruto's reaction confused him...and his mind couldn't understand. Now why on earth is he blushing like that...It's not like I'm telling him my wife is going to scrub his back...
"Ah, thank you sir. I'll be sure to tell Neji the same." If I don't kill him first...he thought as he smiled and followed the man past the gates and into what he was now considering if not neutral territory, it could be an enemy fortress. He made sure to take his sandals off and dust his feet before stepping over the threshold. Even he knew that much. He nodded politely when Hiashi handed him over to the waiting Neji. Once at the bath, he disrobed and carefully folded up his new clothes. Scrubbing down and rinsing before easing into the steaming bath,he sighed as muscles he didn't even know were tense almost instantly relaxed. He placed a small towel on his forehead and glanced at Neji as he laid out a few garments neatly. "Okay, Neji...whats going on?" he asked without preamble.
Neji chuckled as he too relaxed. "I swear...it's just dinner. I was as surprised as you when he told me to make sure you had something proper to wear for the evening meal. I saw you and Hinata stepping out of the shop so I knew he'd have your measurements. You owe me around 3,000 ryo by the way." he blinked as Naruto coughed and sputtered. "What? A decent kimono can take weeks to make, and can cost as much as 10 to 20,000 ryo you know. That tailor got it finished in four hours...be glad it wasn't more." he set out the rest of the garment under layers and studied them. "I have to admit he knows his craft. These really are perfect for you. Dinner is in two hours so you have time to relax and I'll be back in time to help you with it if you want." he offered though it was obvious he wanted to be someplace else.
3,000? Daaaamn, no wonder the guy practically gave away those jump suits when he sold them to me. He must make a killing... he blinked and replied slowly, "Thanks Neji, but I think I can figure them out." He closed his eyes and relaxed his body though his mind was already jumping to conclusions and making assumptions in rapid succession. The one thing he knew was that he must absolutely NOT make a spectacle of himself tonight. He would not give her any reason to be embarrassed over him nor by him. He took his time getting out of the bath. Drying off fully before moving to the garments. Most of it was straightforward enough. The tabi sock and undergarments then tying the obi in place firmly. He was about to continue when he heard a familiar giggle. He turned and nearly jumped out of his skin as he saw Hinata slowly walking forward with that small smile and blush of hers. "Hinata? Your not supposed to be here...this is the men's bath!" he stammered, blushing hotly as she giggled anew and stepped forward.
"Hanabi is watching out and you need help." She said quietly. She untied the obi easily and retied it. She too was blushing but she made quick work of straightening him out. Slipping the outer kimono top, the montuki kimono, over his shoulders. She was biting her bottom lip as she ran her hands over his back slowly, removing any creases. She nearly closed her eyes in pleasure even as she though to herself, I didn't understand at the time, Mother, but you were right. Dressing your man in his best can be a sensual act. Setting the right hand side of the montuki in place and taking his hand to hold it steady as she then set the left over it and used the hidden tie to secure them. Again running light fingers over the fabric to remove non-existent wrinkles and creases. She turned the hakama to the right direction and gave them to him. Once they were on, she set and secured it by its ties to the obi. She eyed it critically as she made sure the proper number of pleats showed forward. She nodded and smiled as she then pulled out the light outer jacket, the Haori. She slid that over his clothes and tucked and tugged slightly to straighten it. She smiled proudly as she looked at him. He was quite the sight. The kimono's dark color melded nicely with the charcoal of the hakama. The dark orange with black flame trim along the length and sleeves of his Haori was an excellent contrasting note. She also noted it had three devices showing. The swirl pattern that he always wore in a black embroidery over the orange. DO I have to escort him to dinner? I want to HAVE him for dinner! she thought, which prompted a near bout of hysterical giggles. She was way too keyed up. She backed away quickly and exited the bath. She couldn't stay any longer...IF she did, there might be a fresh scandal taking place!
Naruto watched her expression whenever he could, which was maybe twice all total. If that was any indication of her feelings, he had been upgraded from barbecue to steak. Staying perfectly still as she left and he moved forward to glance at a mirror and his jaw fell open. He looked...dignified in this outfit. It was still his colors and the arrangement of contrast versus coexistence made him stand out but not in a lurid sense. He felt like a million ryo and his reflection stopped goggling in response and gave a cheeky grin. Neji was right. This look really was perfect for him. Taking a bit of time to move around in the room and grow more accustomed to the feel of he fabric and the weight of the layers. One he was satisfied he wouldn't trip over his own feet, he slid on a pair of indoor sandals, the Setta. Walking down the hallway back towards the center of the Family home. He stepped out to the inner courtyard, listening to the serene sounds of nature. He heard soft footsteps and turned around. It was his turn to stare hard. His silent mind suddenly gathered speakers and spoke quite loudly to his forebrain, She looks divine...delicious...and simply amazing...elegant...gorgeous...be sure to tell her! When he found his voice after their eyes finally met, all he could say was "You look absolutely amazing..." his voice an awed whisper that spoke volumes more than the words themselves.
Hands folded and head bowed downward, she felt so nervous. She was dressed in a simple lavender kimono bearing the Hyuuga symbols in a darker shade, identical to the obi, with a pale shimmering silver under kimono, the date-eri, which matched her obi-age and obi-jime. The crisp white han-eri peeked out along the front and neck of her kimono, accenting the gentle curve of her neck. A gold pin, the obi-dome, stood out as it was worked with extreme care into the shape of the swirling flame of the Hyuuga Clan. Her hair was gently pulled back, leaving her bangs to hang free down the sides of her face while the length hung in a flowing mass down her back, held in place by a single hair brooch also of gold and also worked with care into the Hyuuga flame. Lightly applied makeup accented her eyes and complexion. When he didn't say anything, she looked up and found him staring speechless at her. Instead of blushing or fidgeting, she straightened more. She felt alive, powerful, and...feminine. His eyes nearly devoured her and a different warmth spread throughout her body making her skin tingle. His gaze was one of awe combined with desire. A heady mixture that brought out a stronger flush to her cheeks and made her eyes sparkle in pleasure. "as do you Naruto-kun." she replied softly, still reveling in the feelings his stare evoked.
He nodded and stepped forward and offered her his arm. It was as much of a gallant gesture as it was one of claiming. Walking arm and arm, he let her subtly guide him to the room where dinner awaited. The door slid open and they entered to find Hiashi and his wife entering as well. Perfect timing! he thought as he saw the expressions on both their faces. Hiashi's was considering and his wife's was one of enjoyment. Easy to see who really supports our relationship, he added mentally as he bowed to his hosts and thanked them for inviting them. Settling on his knees next to Hinata, he of course waited for them to get comfortable. They settled in to the meal which, he discovered, was a five course meal.
An hour or so later, the women were chatting away while Naruto and Hiashi stepped outside to look and enjoy the serenity of the garden as the sun was beginning to set. Hiashi glanced over at Naruto and broke the silence. "I have to admit, Naruto...you showed impeccable manners tonight and I am reminded that the clothes do not make the man. Seeing the two of you together, it's obvious how much you care for one another. And because of you, my daughter has grown stronger, more self confident. It makes me realize just how much I may have misjudged you." he said quietly before accepting a container of fresh tea.
Naruto saw that Hinata had brought it and he smiled in thanks before he answered. "I appreciate that,sir. We do love each other. I honestly had no idea that it felt like this...I feel whole when we're together. Like how I imagine you and your wife feel..." he added with a sip of tea, noticing how Hiashi looked to him sharply. "We compliment each other...Like thunder and lightning. It's natural for one to be with the other...am I wrong?"
Hiashi actually had to think about it. He nodded and said, "I never considered in quite that fashion but its an appropriate comparison. You two are very much like thunder and lightning. But which is which?" he asked with a raised eyebrow.
Naruto thought about it carefully before answering. "I can't really say. We both react to the other in a natural sense. When she was hurt by Pain, I went berserk. Yet when I was pinned, she came to my rescue...I'd have to say we each could be one or the other depending on the circumstances."
He considered that and drank his tea, impressed with the answer. "You speak of 'natural' a lot. Is it truly like that for you?" he inquired now genuinely intrigued.
"Since I learned Senjutsu, I became even more aware of how things flow and ebb in nature and we ourselves are creatures of Nature." he gestured toward the man. "Even combat there is an ebb and flow. Because the fighters move in accordance to a set of ingrained responses and tactics which follow, in a way, Nature. It's natural to keep a specific distance from your opponent. That's the ebb, I think. Then..." he paused as Hiashi spoke up.
"The flow then is when the fighters close in or use a jutsu or use some other tool..." he said truly impressed now. I never thought he'd have this sort of depth...He's definitely more mature now than I had ever heard of him being...he thought, though he didn't let those thoughts show in his expression. "So with you two...?" he asked, finding that despite himself he was beginning to enjoy the conversation.
He dipped a finger in his tea and drew the yin and yang circle. "I flow, she ebbs. And vice versa, sir." he smiled as he caught a glimpse just out of sight as Hinata peeked around a corner. "And it's not just a physical attraction, sir." he began, taking a risk of ruining the rapport being built. "I won't lie and say it's not there. It is, but there's so much more to our relationship. Emotionally, we both have our issues. Working them out together only makes the bond between us stronger. Helping each other overcome them brings us closer together here." he tapped his head, "Not just here as we accept that we can rely on each other without doubts." he tapped his heart.
Hiashi listened and saw what Naruto was expressing and found himself respecting that point of view. "Well, I have to say you have surprised me several times tonight,Naruto. I know that by the right of combat, you are dating my...dating Hinata with no interference allowed from me or the Clan. I am saying now, I find myself pleased with you as her boyfriend. But...I will add this." he smiled in a dark way to add the seriousness. "As her father, If you hurt her or do something...to her...I will cut off your reason for standing up. Do you understand?" his smile widened, "An appropriate punishment that will still leave you able to perform your duties as a Shinobi."
Naruto tensed at the word, "But", and he tensed even more at the less than subtle threat to his manhood. He sipped his tea and swallowed slowly before he nodded. "I understand and have no intention of doing anything to harm her." he said bluntly though it was obvious his answer wasn't quite what the man wanted. He knew that Hiashi wanted his word that he wouldn't try anything physical with her but he wasn't about to lie to the man just to ease his concerns. Nor was he about to admit that his mind had been filled with thoughts of doing physical activities with her. Activities that had nothing to do with training in any shape or form. "That is as far as I am willing to promise you, sir. And it is getting dark, so I must be going. I truly do appreciate being invited to dinner and it was a wonderful meal." He rose slowly to his feet after putting down his cup of tea.
Hiashi nodded and remained where he was sitting. "I can ask for nothing more. For I now understand you a little better than I did before. Not completely, but somewhat. As for leaving...I understand you don't have a place to go to. I invite you to rest here tonight in a guest quarters. Tomorrow you can go out and settle your other affairs."
Naruto froze at the invitation, not sure if this was a trick question or a trap he couldn't figure out yet. "I...don't want to be an imposition."
Hiashi, looked at him calmly as he now had a stronger grasp of Naruto's ethics and morals. "I insist so please don't argue. I'll have Hinata show you the way." he raised his voice just a bit, "You can come out and show him...He's still alive and sound in form..." his tone wry before he turned slightly to resume staring out at the garden. The interview, such as it was, was over.
Hinata came out and bowed to her father, moving to quickly usher Naruto away. Pressing a finger to her lips until they were well out of earshot and sight. Then she plunged into his arms and began shaking. "I...I was so worried. He never talks with anyone like that. Never..."
He hugged her close, feeling the tremors taking over her. "Shhhhh, its okay. He's being a Dad. He had to get a feel for me. He must approve slightly or he wouldn't have made that offer."
"That and he knows he can put a guard on you here and no one would think it odd..." she said with a smile. "This way, he can ensure...he can be certain we don't try anything." she pouted slightly as her other plans were ruined.
"Its okay...We've waited four months. We can wait a while longer..." he whispered and tipped her head up for a slow sensual kiss. His mind rebelling at the thought of continued patience, Just not toooo much longer!
He walked alongside Hinata until they reached a door, which she opened for him but didn't enter. Her eyes flickered left in warning. He nodded as he got the message and just kissed his fingertips and placed them against her lips. He walked inside and found his regular clothes waiting for him. He planned this in advance. Cagey old man I have to admit. he thought to himself as he heard the door shut behind him. Changing for the night he hung the garments very carefully before slipping into the bed. Closing his eyes, he gathered Nature Energy and entered Sage Mode. Immediately, he sensed the presence of three guards around the room. The one indicated by Hinata, one at the end of the opposite corridor and one outside the window in the trees. Hmmmm, definitely not taking any chances...It's almost funny. Almost. He let his eyes drift close with that and was soon fast asleep.
Sure enough, he found himself back at those gates and the shadowed form of the Kyuubi staring at him with crimson eyes and no little hatred.
"What is it, Kyuubi?" Naruto asked, standing atop the water this visit. He felt himself wearing the full kimono and he knew without looking, it was the same one he had worn to dinner.
"Making nice with the parents? You have to be joking...You do realize they trust you as far as they could lift a mountain? They will destroy any happiness you have the moment your back is turned. The father would as soon kill you as look at you. Just like the rest of this village."
"You're wrong on that old fox. Things are changing and I am receiving the recognition and acknowledgment I have always wanted. " he retorted with a smug smile.
"Oh really? If they trust you so much, then why post guards like that? Because he's afraid of you. He's afraid you'll deflower that daughter of his. Whom I might add, that until now, he has not given a damn about. Not until you entered the picture. Even his cast offs are not good enough for you, in his opinion. He is afraid down to the core that you'll sully his oh so precious bloodline. He mouths empty words except in his threats. Those were sincere." the fox said with an air of certainty in its tone as it turned its head to regard him more closely with a single vertical slitted eye.
Naruto shook his head and replied, "You're trying to trick me. By making me suspicious of everyone's motives. It won't work, Kyuubi."
"Mark my words, boy. Humans always betray. They will become your friend just so they can learn where and how to stick the knife in just right. Just like the Uchiha brat did." the Bijuu said with a growl that bordered on outright laughter. "Your naivety and desire to see 'good' in everyone will get you killed yet."
"Maybe it will." Naruto said quietly, "But at least I'll die standing true to myself, my precious ones, and my Way."
"Oh yes. And when you die, you'll be remembered for being a fool. Not a hero." came the reply, one it had been waiting to deliver.
"I'd rather be a fool for trusting in others than be the wisest man in the world who trusts no one." Naruto shot back, his gaze locked on the Kyuubi's eye and not wavering in the slightest. He turned and left the chamber holding the sealed Bijuu. But not before he heard one last comeback.
"Suit yourself, boy."
