Here I am again, my faithful readers after a brief hiatus and long delay. I am quite sorry for the delay in my updates. I was having quite some difficulties with my math class and had to meet regularly with my tutor and could not find the time to focus on fan fiction. On a side note, I hope I can proceed to continue with my story despite the recent "site purging" that apparently has been going on with some stories; violations of certain guide-lines, self-righteous petty hypocrites, along with various digital stress. In my opinion, certain people have no right to talk as far as following guidelines go. Why just one review from an author really quite pissed me off a bit. As unquote: "There are far too many grammar mistakes in your first couple of chapters…I am wondering about your capability as an author". It amazes me how people can write off someone because of something like "grammar errors" then do the same thing. It's like I say in my profile; "hell hath no fury like a woman scorned. Scorn me and I scorn you".

And now a note from the author: I recall getting various reviews commenting on Naruto somewhat starting to "fall in love with and accepting" Sasuke. That is not what I was meaning to get at. I am tired of clichéd SasuNaru stories where the two characters get together under various circumstances, fall "in love" and then shag. That is not what my story is going to be about. Naruto is still in the process of battling his inner demons and adjusts himself to the new circumstances he has been forced into. Another thing I have neglected to note on is Tsunade. She will still be the same character with a trouble past like in the anime/manga, she will just have a dramatically altered personality and a severe alcoholism because of it. All the characters will have the same plot as in the anime but with liberties. Oreo cookie points to the people who guessed who "the shadow" was. Spoiler Alert: I will be making a future appearance with GespenstKAF in a later chapter to explain Naruto's past.

GespenstKAF: I've been busy lately, but I'm going to get back to my stories as soon as I can.

Warnings: O.C. Characters, bitchy fangirls, crude/coarse language, bad come-ons, historical inaccuracy, and the absences of a few of your favorite characters T_T.

Chapter 11: Courting Do's and Don't's

Part I: An event to remember


Nothing more was said as the two unwelcomed party-crashers took their seats; far away from the guest of honor (at the request of Sasuke). Lord Danzo nearly drooled out of the corner of his mouth as a freshly grilled salmon was placed onto his plate while his seat-mate remained stoic and pensive. None too soon did the elder not hesitate to take the salmon and various side-dishes and stuff it into his mouth while making noises of pleasure, much to the disgust of the people surrounding them. A majority of the noblemen excused themselves from the table saying they "had lost their appetite and needed some air". Others hid their disgust by resuming their previous conversation with their respective kin. Naruto was especially mortified and pushed his half-consumed bowl of ramen away from him. The others looked to their prince with pleading eyes to rid them of the "pest". Sasuke gladly obliged.

"Lord Danzo, if you don't mind, you are offending my guest and my fiancée with your atrocious manners. If you insist on continuing to guzzle down your food like a barbarian, then I see no other option but to throw you outside and make you eat with the pigs. (1) Besides I think the children in the village would enjoy the thrill of a brand new piñata to beat around for entertainment."

A smirk formed upon Sasuke's pale lips and chuckled darkly at the elderly man. The shrewd elder gulped down his meal heavily. He shot a glare at the raven for daring to insult him twice in one night. Yet if one were to look more closely, they would see a flicker of fear in those beady black eyes. Danzo was not about to be outdone by some cocky prince and his concubine. He was about to make a rebuttal but was stopped by a tug on his wrinkly arm. The lord whipped his head to his nephew. (2) The albino-raven gestured him to lean to so he could whisper in his ears.

"Uncle, I feel your anger and would wish to give my cousin a what-for…but remember exactly why we are here. Any rash actions will be the end of us. It is well known how much stronger Sasuke is then you. If word gets out that you were defeated in battle by the Prince of Konoha, our rivals would see that as a chance to rise up against us and overtake us. Not to mention the growing threat of the rebel forces in the area, need I remind you".

Danzo returned his gaze back to Sasuke who was still leering at him with a "you still want to challenge me" gaze. Danzo quickly put on a stoic face and coughed, bringing up everyone's attention.

"I would very much love to stay and dine with each and every one of you but see the Earl and I have things to discuss in the garden and will not be seen for much of the night. I bid you all a pleasant October the 10th; I am sure it will be an event worth remembering," the man proclaimed before leading the earl to the doors leading to the gardens. With just a click, they were gone.

Everyone in the room all let out a sigh of relief. The tension in the room departed. Now those two were gone, everyone could resume where they left off; resuming conversations with fellow aristocrats and kin. (3) The arrival of the 'gruesome two-some' had shut off Naruto's normally loud, vivacious voice and made him feel rather uncomfortable with just their mere perverse glances. Sure the teme drew out those same feelings but at least had the courtesy to tone it down with him. Sasuke did after all promise to behave for the banquet.

"He he he, well I have to say that is sure one way to make a grand departure after a nice meal, isn't it?" Naruto laughed nervously scratching the back of his head. He opened one blue eye. Various faces frowned at the idiotic response, while others ignored him (A/N: or they were just hoping that the blonde wouldn't jinx the situation in the event the two came back). Sasuke slapped a pale hand on his forehead. The dobe sure knew how to make a situation awkward. Queen Mikoto giggled at the blonds' "adorable" response while Fugaku only shook his head. The table guest all sweat-dropped. (4) Only the masked "Shin" gave a sideways smirk to him.

Che, only you can say something troublesome and get a reaction from everyone. Got to hand it you, blondie. By the way remind me to thank you for lending me this outfit and giving me the chance to meet this feisty-beautiful princess from the sand kingdom. Shikamaru turned to his seatmate. Temari gallantly sipped a glass of burgundy wine before turning to him with a cheeky smile on her face.

Sasuke closed his eyes before he stood up. He walked over to where Naruto was and placed a hand on his fiancé's shoulder. He coughed gathering all eyes on him for what he was going to say.

"On behalf of my fiancé and I, it is a privilege and an honor to invite you all to this extravagant banquet along with your family, wives, children…acquaintances," everyone chortled to that, "anyways, I did not only summon you for merely to enjoy the food, or dance, or socialize. As stated in the invitations you obtained, aside from announcing my choice of a qu...er by my side; two other important events are to take place this night." The table guest raised a confused brow wondering what else this day could be about (A/N: it shows how stupid people can really be). "But first things first:"

Sasuke skid his feet at a (5) forty-five degree angle and clapped his hand twice. Before anyone could ask; the doors flung open to reveal several maids rolling in a treat that made everyone's mouth water (once I describe it you will too). It was a six-layer white frosted cake with orange cream ribbon designs at the edges, blue flower designs at stairs (?) and candles lit up with brilliant glowing flames. The cake was soon followed by other desert type treats and placed on the tables that were neatly placed against the walls. Naruto gasped and put a hand on his face not believing the sight in front of him or that the so called Ice-Prince could do something like this.

"I may have neglected to mention on the invite that this day also happens to be Naruto-chan's 17th birthday." The entire dining hall became silent. Sasuke noticed some of the people's discomfort and decided to alleviate the tension. "Oh did I mention it was red velvet (6)?" At the mention of red-velvet, everyone shouted gleefully. It was a once in a lifetime thing if you ever got to taste what it was like to have a red-velvet cake. "Once again, everyone is free to take a brief hiatus then we will begin serve the cake and then you may be free to take part in the rest of the night's festivities." With that all the maids and servants took care to clear the table and prepare to satisfy sweet-tooths.


A pair of icy blue eyes glared venomously at the "bitch" who dared to stand next to her Sasuke-kun and exchange light-hearted banter with him. It was unfathomable. She should be the one standing at his side as queen not some tramp that just got lucky. A wicked smirk made its way to her creamy lips. She would show Sasuke who really deserved to be on his arm and every other girl would know it too.


The dance hall was once again filled with the sounds of laughter, whisper, and cheers from the numerous aristocrats. Naruto was brimming with excitement. Though he was a bit nervous on the inside, he wasn't going to stop that from getting to know the different people here. And if he was lucky he would get to make new friends or acquaintances if they would accept him that is. From the looks he was receiving from some, it would be an unlikely chance of him becoming friends with anybody. Tch, oh well. It was with great relief that the two scumbags from earlier were still absent. Naruto scanned the room slowly. He smiled when he saw his masked friend was talking to a blonde-haired woman who had her hair up in pigtails and a flashy kimono. The blonde woman laughed quite loudly. An elderly woman took the time to shush the woman. The girl simply replied "Shut up you old bag, this conversation didn't include you." The elder awarded the girl with an affronted look before snorting and resuming the conversation she was indulging a man in. His eyes darted to the Hyuuga woman from earlier. His smile evaporated when he saw the melancholic look had not disappeared from her pretty face. He would have to talk to her when he got the chance. Which was not too far away

Sasuke noticed Naruto was getting antsy figured it was now time to continue on to the next episode. He clapped his hands loudly getting the guest's attention (A/N: I have watched several movies enough to know what happens at these balls. Forgive my historical inaccuracy).

"I would like to take this time to enact a formal dance and everyone is welcome to join in. Or stand if some of you are too shy. As customary it is customary that the king and queen should take the first dance, then I as the prince go in afterwards with my fiancée, then you shall join in with your dance partners if you wish, or if you are too shy you may sit back. Now if the maestros, would be so generous..." he motioned to the musicians in question. The conductor briefly returned the nod and tapped his wand.


[The songs that are playing go as follows: Piano Tribute From Enya, Running Blind and Cosmos by T.A.T.U, and waltz music. I really don't know what else to add.]

As the music began playing, not one inch of the dance floor was empty. Those who chose not to dance either chose to stand to the sides or treat themselves to the assorted brands of champagne and decadent treats on the buffet table. Sasuke would have loved more than anything to dance a little more with the dobe, but then recalled he had to do something. It would have something to do with tonight's festivities.

"Naruto, I regret to say that I must attend to something very important. But fret not, I shall be back to celebrate the rest of your birthday with you. Feel free to mingle with the guest, feast on hors d'oeuvres, or anything to your heart's content." Suddenly Naruto was spun around like a ballerina and held around the waist from behind.

"W-Wh-What? Sasuke I-" Naruto shivered when he felt Sasuke's hot breath on his ear.

"Now Naruto, when I said you could mingle with the guest that is all I want you to do. I will be quite pissed if I see you flirting with anyone or if anyone flirted to, hell as I do recall: should I see anybody touch you or look at you in a way I don't approve of, they will have to deal with me. You wouldn't want that would you, Naruto?" he purred tightening his grip. Naruto nodded. Sasuke pleased with his answer released the blonde.

"(7) Bien Vineto! Au revoir, mi amore. A bientot" he called out to him before walking away from the blonde. Naruto stood flustered. He wasn't all surprised. He was the prince after all. This guy had every language drilled into him from the time he was born. The prince was just full of surprises tonight. One he prepared a special banquet in his er their honor, got him a cake, courted him in a dance for all the aristocrats to see, and now he was proclaiming charming phrases in different languages. Had he been a girl, he would have swooned. But he didn't. It was like back at the balcony.


Flashback Scene: The balcony

(The balcony is lighted by a torch hanging over the doorframe. And there is light shining through the windows leading outside).

Sasuke made his way to the balcony. He sat Naruto's head on his lap while his body lay on the stone bench (comfy, note the sarcasm there). The outside was so quiet save for the sounds of the nighttime wildlife. Sasuke loved this area. He liked to come here when things became too stressful or one his free days he would grab a book and sit outside to read under the blue sky. It reminded him of those good days when his brother would read to him here.

Sasuke become somber at the thought. This night was for one sole purpose; Naruto. He looked down at the sleeping beauty (A/N: there I go again, being corny) resting so peacefully. He carefully pushed blond bangs from his eyes Sasuke found everything about his intended so intriguing, including those strange markings on his tan face. They made him look akin to a fox. (8) He recalled reading a story about the Kumiho. They were relatively said to be foxes that could morph into females who then ate the livers of unsuspecting men. Although Naruto was hardly deserving of such a reputation. His trail of thought was interrupted when Naruto began stirring.

Sasuke smiled until he saw the way Naruto's sleeping face morphed into terror. At this point Naruto was flailing about like he was trying to push something away.

"N-N-N-No! No! No! It can't be! Let me go, you MONSTER! I will never be yours! I would rather be dead!" Naruto cried out. Sasuke was fearful. The blond was crying out bloody murder. He had to wake him up soon before he did something drastic. A logical person who happened to enter the scene would automatically assume he was referring to Sasuke. But the prince knew better.

"I will be dead before I become your bitch! Get away! Get away! NOOOOOOOOOOOO!"

"NARUTO! DAMMIT, KNOCK IT OFF!" is what the blond heard before a sharp pain connected with his cheek. He shot up awake. Tan lids snapped open to reveal recently terrified blue eyes which then locked themselves with frantic dark ones. He blinked a couple times. He sat himself up now sitting straight trying to register what was happening. He rapidly turned his head. Last he remembered, he was being introduced to Sasuke's parents, was picked up by an excited queen, and then spun around til he passed out. Now here he was being held up by the collar of his kimono.

"Thank god, dobe," the raven sighed exasperated. "I am sorry about the slap but you were squirming wildly and screaming at nothing, and threatening to pretty much kill yourself. You know that could give anyone a heart-attack." The raven released the collar of the ornamented kimono rubbing the back of his head forgetting he had no sat back down. Naruto landed on his butt on the hard ground. He glared at the sheepish raven.

"Gomen, gomen, gomen, I just couldn't resist doing that," Sasuke chuckled heartily. Naruto muttered "thanks, teme" sarcastically before sitting back on the bench. The raven sat down beside him. Naruto looked away shame-faced. How could he have slipped up again? Anymore and somebody is bound to make him talk?

"You want to talk about it?" was asked. The former tailor didn't need to ask what it was. He shook his head not looking at the raven. Sasuke sighed running his hands through his spiky locks. Eventually the silence became insufferable. Amazingly it was the blonde that spoke.

"I would never in a thousand years think this was plausible. Just a month ago, I was just a simple tailor working for a reasonable wage and living in a simple-sized shack that I called home for the past three years". Naruto lifted his head up to glance at the crescent shaped moon above him. He had a near conflicted. "And now here I am; whisked away against my will into the life of luxury and given the choice many would gladly jump into…just…not...me." A scraping noise brought him to the present.

Sasuke's bangs shadowed half his face, his fist were clenched and his entire form was shaking. Naruto could only stare. What was going to happen next? To think he was making so much progress with controlling his anger. Next was the dreaded glow of red eyes. However, much to his surprise instead of those blaring red globes called Sharingan; deep black eyes frowned at him. His frown turned into a demented smile.

"Is that the type of person you think I am? Just another selfish nobleman taking someone against their will and forcing them to be something they're not? I might have done that but not without consideration. You should know me by now, Naruto. I definitely know you. More than that whole damned village ever did. To them you were just an orphan who got lucky because he was taken in to be the town tailor's apprentice and only sole purpose is to sew and procure fabrics to anyone who ask for it. I saw that you were special. You are not arrogant or rude. Everything you ever did, it was for good.

"The time that you paid the debts for that family so their children wouldn't have to go into slavery, escorting elderly women across the streets safely, sewing clothes for the orphans and buying them food so they wouldn't get cold or hungry in the winter nights, hell even stopped a slave from being beaten to death. Never once did you ever think of anything more than the happiness of the people around you even those that didn't treat you all so kindly. You remember when I told you about how I met you? I meant every word saying you were the best thing to happen to my life. I still think that. It's the reason I fell in love with you right there."

(Song playing: "It's Gonna Be Love" by Mandy Moore)

(9) Naruto twirled a strand of his ponytail around his finger. He placed a hand over his heart. He honestly did not know what to make of that heartfelt confession from the bold raven prince. His head hung allowing his bangs to shadow his face. Sasuke feared he acted too profound when trails of tears ran down the latter's whiskered cheeks.

"Naruto, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have yelled. If I could rewind and say it differently then-" he was interrupted. The blonde cupped his face letting out a hiccupped laugh and stuttered like a certain violet-haired female. (A/N: Fret not. We will get to see her in the next chapter)

"N-n-n-n-n-no, Uchiha-sama. Its j-just t-that no one has ever said anything like that to me b-b-before, he he he. Heck my past suitors never held softness in their words like you do. It was always 'give yourself to me, now' or something along those lines. Not you." Naruto turned his eyes to smile at the Uchiha with tears of happiness running down his face. He carefully rubbed his eyes so he wouldn't smudge his eye-liner. Sasuke backed up slowly. It was normal for a girl to suddenly burst into tears without warning but from a guy was a different story. He was about to reply when a knock on the glass doors interrupted them.

The door opened to reveal Kakashi entering the balcony. He was followed closely by Iruka. Sasuke resisted the urge to roll his eyes. They were probably sent here by the king and queen to know what was with the hold-up. Kakashi stood up straight with his hands behind his back akin to a butler pose and spoke.

"All of the guests are anxiously awaiting your arrival, my liege. It will not look well to dawdle out here," he spoke with refinement. Sasuke stayed silent. He was impressed with Kakashi. He was half-expecting the silver-haired man to make perverted jokes at his and Naruto's expense. He was impressed Kakashi was so well behaved tonight. Iruka had come from behind Kakashi to give congratulations to Naruto on this night. His smile disappeared when he saw the tear stains on the teens face. He ran swiftly to him. He gripped the blonde's shoulder and started shaking him.

"Oh my gosh, Naruto are you okay? What happened? Did Sasuke do something to you? Please tell me so-" Naruto touched his finger to the man's lips to stop his rant. He wiped his eyes, "Actually I was crying because I was so touched by the heart-felt confession he gave me before you guys came in. I will tell you all about it later. For now, give us a few more minutes, well be right in, okay?" he pleaded to the scar-faced man. Iruka released his hands from the blonde's shoulders and stood back up.

"Come on, Kakashi: let us return to our duties and report to their majesties," he commanded to Kakashi. Kakashi nodded and placed an arm around Iruka's shoulders. Much to his relief, the dolphin made no move to remove said arm. Just before the door clicked close behind them, Kakashi turned around and gave a sly wink to Sasuke.

Once again it was just the two young men alone together under the night sky. Sasuke sighed loudly.

"That Kakashi, you can't live with him, you can't live without him." This earned a chuckle from Naruto who wiped away the last bit of tears. He put his fist on his knees and stood up.

"Arigato, Uch-Sasuke-sama. You have made this the best birthday I ever had. I mean it. I really have not the words formed to properly thank you for all you have done and the time it took to make it possible." (A/N: Awww isn't that sweet. I sure do hope all of you show just as good a show of gratitude to your boyfriends/girlfriends as Naruto does). Sasuke walked up to him and gently linked his arms gently with him.

"You can thank me by allowing me to escort you back to the dining hall, my lovely Naruto," he whispered seductively. Naruto grinned. It sounded good enough for him. Then he remembered something important. He tugged Sasuke's arms. Sasuke stared at Naruto confusedly.

"Do you have a handkerchief I can borrow? I don't want to be seen with my eye-liner all smudged up." Naruto knew he sounded like such a girl right now but come on this was his party and he wanted to look good. Sasuke rolled his eyes and reached into his pocket to give Naruto a silk hanky. Naruto released his dark charges' arm and wiped at his eyes with the hanky. He gestured to give it back but his hand was stopped.

"Keep it for now, I have a million stored in door somewhere," he replied dumbly. Naruto scoffed. "You are so spoiled, Teme." Sasuke rolled his eyes. The pair linked arms together and walked back inside to entertain the royal visitors. Naruto never felt happier. He was here with someone that helped him piece his life back together. Piece by piece. And yet he knew that someday he would have to tell Sasuke about everything.

Flashback End


Naruto continued reminiscing. He spun on the balls of his feet. He then opened his eyes to see several people giving him perplexed looks. He scratched the back of his head embarrassedly then transported to the other side of the room in a cloud of dust. Naruto was an extrovert at times save for when surrounded by a large crowd. To his relief, Iruka and Kakashi were spotted at the foot of the stairs.

"Oi! Iruka, Kakashi! I'm coming on over to you, so stay put." He pushed his way through the crowds being forced to have to push people out of the way along the way. (10) He managed to find at least one clear path to his destination. Out of the corner of his eye he spotted his friend, Shikamaru still wearing that mask he had given him. Next to him was the four-pigtailed princess from earlier; Temer, Tomara, or whoever she was. Never mind. He would have to ask later.

"Hello Iruka. Hi Kakashi. Are you two having any fun?" he asked. Kakashi gave a snort. "Suuuurreeee, it is loads of fun to stand here doing nothing for hours," he began sarcastically. "We are here to stand watch and guard the place, we cannot mingle with the upper-crust save for the king and queen and Prince Sasuke, we haven't even had time to cram our mouths with all that delicious food…and, dammit, I feel like a starving dog!" he complained loudly, shaking his clenched fist in irritation.

Iruka shook his head and patted the younger male's head. "Don't worry Naruto he's always like that when he's hungry and doesn't take to kindly to standing still for hours with nothing to do unless its reading one of his…er…books." Naruto quirked a brow wondering what he meant. Iruka only retorted with "don't ask". Iruka shuddered. (11) Oh how he despised those books Kakashi would often nicely call: Most wonderful piece of literature ever written. But that was for another time. "And look on the bright side, Kakashi, at least we aren't outside in the cold." he replied.

Outside the palace entrance:

ACHOO! A white haired guy with a black bandanna on his head sneezed.

Huh how strange, I could have sworn someone is talking about me. Ibiki was sharpening his knives when the white haired snare sneezed. He shook his head. He never did care much for old wives tales. Ibiki went straight back to sharpening his knives.

At the ballroom:

"Naruto you shouldn't have to worry about the two of us. This is supposed to be your night. A chance to celebrate your birthday as you see fit. Also it marks the night of the-"

"Sumimasen, but would I seem presumptuous to beseech an audience with a Naruto Uzumaki for a bit?" a female voice asked. Naruto craned his head to see who asked. It was a pretty young woman ranging seventeen years of age. She stood tall and elegant in her golden ball gown (see my profile for full description) where the sleeves hung off her shoulders, a gold sash hung around her waist and arms with a golden fan. The heart neckline showed a bit of cleavage. Her blue eyes were accentuated with eyeliner and glitter to make them pop. Her hair was up in a stylish half bun with the rest in curls. To say she was one of the most beautiful women he has ever seen was an understatement. This girl was absolutely gorgeous. And by the looks various noblemen (A/N: including those who were married. Talk about unfaithful) and jealous women, it was true. She granted Naruto her acknowledgement via a beaming smile.

"Enchanted, good sir. We have not had the opportunity to acquaint ourselves. I am the Duchess of Yamanaka Manor; Ino Yamanaka," she spoke regally waving her fan. She spoke again. "Of course you were not present when the palace squire gave the royal introductions, so I believed it to be proper to introduce myself personally. One such as yourself should be honored," she replied haughtily. Iruka and Kakashi glared at the girl's haughty statement. Naruto thought nothing of Ino's statement.

"It is an honor to meet your acquaintance Yamanaka-san. I have to say you are the first aristocrat aside at this banquet to grace me with your presence. I have to say I am honored." He scratched the back of his head blushing. Ino smirked. Good, she had his attention. Now all there was to do was drag him away from the two watch dogs next to him. She would then enact her carefully calculated plan.

"Say gentlemen as I said earlier, is it alright if I took Naruto away to dance? It would be most wonderful if we blonds took the chance to get to know each other." Naruto looked at the adults to give him the go ahead. Kakashi had his hands behind his back with a bored look on his face. He muttered "go ahead" but Iruka was different conception. Before Iruka could make a decision, Ino had already gripped Naruto's hand in her own and dragged the male away. Naruto mouthed the tan skinned knight "bye" before disappearing in the large sea of pump and splendor.

Iruka sighed disheartingly. A part of him was tempted to persuade Naruto to say no to the Yamanaka's offer and find another dance partner. Another part of him reasoned that Naruto was a near adult and that he was capable of making his own decisions. Naruto was a little brother to him and the thought of anyone hurting him physically, emotionally, and mentally was unbearable. It made him quite angry. Ino was not a totally bad person per say. But she wasn't an angel. It was definite any intentions she had for Naruto were less than pure. He walked over to his partner and lover.

"Kakashi…pray with me that tonight…won't in tears," he said gravely. Kakashi nodded.


Ino dragged Naruto to a secluded corner away from the roving eyes of the dancers. Ino placed a 1000 watt smile upon her glowing face. She placed both hands on Naruto's shoulders and closed her eyes. A sudden pain shot into both his shoulders. Her nails dug into his shoulders. The area around them dropped twenty degrees. Her head shot up into a demonic snarl. (A/N: cue, Ino-bitch)

"Listen well and listen good, idiot. I don't know what cheap brothel or trash heap you crawled out from, but I suggest you go back before you cause embarrassment to us all", she snapped. Naruto stood gape mouthed. He shoved Ino away and frowned at her. "Excuse me?" he whispered. Ino's glare didn't falter.

"You heard me. You may have charmed the king and queen, but I see right through you. To those with any brains you are just some guttersnipe who somehow seduced the prince into your graces. You are rather attractive I will admit, but see that is just that. Telling by your body language, you obviously have no knowledge on how to behave as part of the noble gentry, which is just laughable," she held her stomach and gave a full bellied laugh. She laughed so hard that some of her curls started to come undone and snorted a bit. Eventually she calmed down. She wiped her eye with a gloved finger. Whispers could be heard. She blushed when she realized they were about her. A group of gentry were previously discussing land-sea joint treaties when Ino's raucous laughter interrupted them. Their faces scrunched up in disgust. So not how a proper lady should act. They took their business elsewhere. She quickly composed herself. Then she reverted her attention back to the blond male.

"I have just one thing to say to you..." she leaned down to whisper into his ear "stay away from my Sasuke-kun. It's a wonder that he should choose you when he has a woman of higher standing such as myself to fit so perfectly in his arms and become his queen." She got a dreamy look on her face. "Oh don't worry, you'll find someone else. Maybe one who likes girly-looking guys."

Naruto hung his bangs over his eyes. He did not open his mouth for seconds.

"Awwww, what's the matter? Are you going to cry?" she mocked in a tone that dripped of infantile sarcasm. In her mind she was already celebrating, believing she had gotten to him. Sadly, she was sorely mistaken. Naruto smiled crookedly and laughed sardonically.

"(12) Are you done…Ino-pig?" he spat. Ino gulped. How dare he? Naruto lifted his head and gave her a fierce defiant glare. "Your Sasuke-kun? A lady? Me, become an embarrassment? Do you listen to yourself? You think a few harsh words will make me run crying? Fuck You! I have cried enough tears to last me a lifetime. Like I don't know what you are trying to pull? You think you deserve the prince? It is so obvious you are only into him for his money and social class. I was sure that I would get to meet at least one civilized human being at this party but instead I met a pretentious…BOAR!" Ino gasped and bit her lip. Unshed tears formed on her lower lids. Her plan to put this nobody in his place was backfiring horribly. To add insult to injury, her little spectacle drew a crowd. Talk about total humiliation.

Naruto shook his head at her. Forget about propriety; this girl was a bitch. He didn't even spare her a second glance as he walked back into the crowd. However, he was not quite finished with her yet. What he said next would be engrained into every one's minds for the next couple of months: "You want to know something, Ino? I was wrong about you. You are not a duchess. You are mean-spirited, self-absorbed, and have no manners towards those less fortunate than you. Quite frankly, I have never met anyone more hideous." A chorus of gasp and murmurs echoed inside the room. Ino was devastated. She had always been told by everyone how beautiful she was, even her enemies called her attractive. She held her upper arms as if she was trying to keep an unknown cold, her form shook. The last time she had been called the opposite was when her ex best-friend betrayed her less than three years ago. Something inside the young duchess broke. She snapped.

"YOU BASTARD!"

Naruto whipped his head around in time to see Ino attempt to strangle him. His arms did a backwards helicopter motion. He covered his eyes and braced for the impending impact of the laminated tile floor. It never came. Something…someone caught him. He opened one eye to glimpse at his rescuer. It was a handsome brunette with pupiless milk-lavender eyes and pale skin with a white band covering his forehead. Naruto blushed; the brunette was very handsome.

"Are you alright?" he asked in that sensual tone of his. Naruto blushed at the handsome stranger holding him up.

"H-Hyuuga Neji-san?" a nervous voice squeaked. The man known as Neji peered emotionlessly at Ino. And yet she could feel a hidden aggression beneath those violet orbs; the famous Hyuuga eyes: The Byakugan.

"I have to say, Ino-san, I expected more from a proper lady. I assumed a woman of the Yamanaka family would be taught better than that," he said to her patronizingly. "You act out of line at a formal banquet/ball and go so far as to attack the prince's fiancée. You are fortunate he was not present to witness your abominable actions or else he would order your immediate execution. Even your status would not save you then. Now be on your way and do not approach Naruto-san again or else you will have to answer to me," he stated edgily.

Ino didn't need to be told twice once he glared at her. She hesitated before walking away shamefaced. There was no room for argument. His family was one up above hers in social, political, and financial affairs. With that she walked away not paying heed to the hushed whispers that passed her way. Neji sighed. Ino was a definite piece of work. Now she was out of the way, for now, he could get acquainted with someone more desirable.

As Ino walked away with a melancholic expression, a pair of ruby heels entered her line of sight. She looked up at said intruder not caring at all she looked like crap. A female with red hair that was unkempt on one side and black rimmed glasses in a red strapless gown.

"Girl…you really screwed yourself this time," she criticized simply.

"Shut up, Karin" she scoffed and continued on her way. Karin watched her rival walk away. She only 'hmphed' her nose into the air and walked a different way. Neji shook his head. He brought his concentration back to his rescue.

"I am Hyuuga Neji. Tonight, the Fates have directed my actions, so that we would meet." Naruto was apprehensive. He was not quite recovered from his ordeal with Ino. Still he bowed back. The brunette before him did not seem to have a hidden motive for him. Oh ho if only he knew. Neji brimmed of confidence. The third song rolled in.

"Uzumaki-san, may I have the honor of granting you this dance?" he asked. Naruto opened his mouth to reply but remembered what Sasuke made him promise. He brushed it off. It was just a dance after all, nothing intimate about it. He could dance with whoever he wanted.

"I would be delighted to Hyuuga-sama. But please do call me Naruto from now on," he said placing his nimble hand in Neji's pale one. Neji smirked to himself. Perfect, I have him where I want him. Watch yourself, Uchiha, he is mine, he purred inwardly. "Very well, but only if we refer to each other on first name basis," he requested smoothly. Naruto concurred. "Shall we then, Hy-Neji?" Neji smiled and led the blonde out to the dance floor where they proceeded to dance. They never noticed a pair of jade eyes watching their every move.


"Everyone all accounted for?" a deep voice asked. A female dressed with long dark hair wrapped up in a traditional Japanese style bun and a fox masks in her hand walked over to him.

"Hai, my liege. Everyone is filled with anticipation for this. I am sure everyone is going to love it. Truly, I believe it will make everyone swoon, even your lady friend," she teased grinning madly. Sasuke rolled his eyes and dismissed the hyper woman.

Sasuke gathered all the performers into the throne room. Indeed, performers. See, a week previous he hand-appointed a select group of talented acrobats, actors, puppeteers, kabuki artist, and top of the line singers to put on tonight's show. He spared absolutely no expense. His dobe deserved the best. The prince closed his eyes as thoughts of a certain blonde lass (?) filled his head. Let's just say a majority of these thoughts were none too PG-13. Sasuke didn't mull over these thoughts for long. He was aware of the eyes on him.

"Ahem. Well now, here are how things are going to go down tonight. You will all follow me to the entrance of the dance hall. You will wait to enter until I signal my squire Lee to give you permission to enter. You shall then arrange into your places where the leader of this fine troupe shall start the play. It shall be known to all as "An Event To Remember"." The cast all cheered at Sasuke's commands. Some even did mid air back-flips.

"Now all of you follow me to the dance hall," he commanded.

Sasuke and his charges exited the throne room and headed back into the direction of the dance room. They were ten inches from the door before being gestured to stop and wait for Sasuke to give the proper introductions. With barely contained excitement, he quickly walked to the door. He knocked quietly on the door. The door opened slightly to reveal Lee.

"My youthful Prince Sasuke! I shall...!" he was abruptly silenced by a hand on his mouth. "SHHHHH. Quiet, Lee. I don't want everyone to know about my return-just yet. I want it be a bit of a surprise. And speaking of surprise, is Naruto faring well?" he inquired concernly. Lee had a skeptical look on his face. He was torn on what his answer should be.

"My prince, as your squire it is my duty to give you address you on all forms of events, be they good or bad. Any news I give you on Naruto, you will most likely not take too kindly to."

"What do mean?"

"…"

Sasuke took that silence as a bad sign. He burst through the door without preamble and rushed past the surprised onlookers. He skidded up to the very edge of the stairways. He scanned the crowd for Naruto. After several seconds he spotted him, however he wasn't alone. Sasuke saw red.


Neji and Naruto danced along the floor, keeping in tandem with the music. It was so much fun and Neji was so talented and his moves. In the midst of dancing, the guest of honor began to notice the room was growing hotter. Sweat formed on Naruto's brow, plastering his bangs to his forehead. He was getting thirsty. Luckily for him there was a nice little refreshment table near-by. He just needed to attain some before he passed out. His panting drew Neji's attention. Arms circled his neck.

"Neji, could you get me something to drink and eat from the refreshments table? I am feeling rather… peckish," he droned before collapsing against the taller man's chest.

Naruto! Baka-desu! Don't you dare go falling asleep. And at your own party of all things. Wake up!

Naruto regained consciousness. His blurry eye-sight was filled with visions of white silk, the smell of cologne, and wisps of brunette hair moving in ribbons. His mind was busy piecing together what was happening, his eyes roamed up towards a face staring down at him. He gasped.

"Gah! Neji what happened? Where am I? And what am I doing on your chest?" he rambled waving his arms about. Neji grasped his shoulders to cease his actions. (13) "Naruto, you must calm down. You just collapsed from both a mild-dehydration and hunger. That, combined with dancing without rest, has prevented oxygen from flowing through the body fast thus causing you to become lightheaded," he explained.

Naruto's went cross-eyed. "How do you know all this, Neji?" he asked him. Neji's face became solemn at the question. He led Naruto over to the destination and answered his question.

"When I was younger…as a member of the Hyuuga Clan, I was expected to put my all into everything I did; politics, martial arts, treaty negotiations, etcetera. Anyway, my uncle had a strict training plan in mind for me, since I was now chosen to be next head of the Hyuuga Clan as his eldest daughter was no longer an option. More than once, for days I trained intensely without food, water, or rest. I had to earn those things. Consequently, it had done a number on my health. Before I even knew it, my world turned to black. When I woke up next, I was lying in a clean bed. The head physician of my family had found me collapsed and dehydrated to near death. He nursed me back to health. Afterwards, he set my uncle straight and convinced him to change how I did my training routine. If he didn't, he would quit as head physician and the rest of his team would follow suit. My uncle couldn't afford that since said team of doctors had a special bloodline that was valuable to my family. So now you see why I became paranoid when you did that."

Naruto took a huge gulp of his glass. He didn't mean to be rude, he was just really thirsty.

"Damn Neji, your uncle sounds like a real douchebag…uh no offense," he commented, putting his hands up to apologize. Neji chuckled softly, "No no, Naruto you are quite right about that one." he smiled at Naruto until something came up in his line of sight. This time he frowned.

"And speaking of douche," he commented dryly to the person approaching them. Naruto's eyes widened thinking it was Sasuke. He spun around preparing to defend himself. He didn't need his permission to socialize with anyone. To his amazement it was someone totally different.

"Now you are not referring to me are you, Neji?" a deep voice patronized. It was a young male that appeared to about his age (17-17 ½) . He had red spiky hair, jade eyes that clashed against his pale skin, a distinct lack of eyebrows, sporting a red robe coat with black pants, and sandals. What set his appearance off was the strange kanji mark above his right brow; Love. Naruto examined that he was handsome if not kind of scary. That creepy grin sure didn't help.

"In fact I was referring to you, Prince Gaara no Sabaku," Neji snarled. He quickly pushed the Naruto out of the red's sight. Gaara wagered his finger. "Now now Lord Neji, I only came to see what all the commotion was about. Now I see why. I am honored to meet you Uzumaki Naruto," he complimented before bending down to bow. Naruto poked his head out. He timidly waved. He was not to keen on getting to close. Something about his aura put up red flags. Gaara stood up.

"Now that all familiarity has been established, I have something I would like to inquire for Naruto for a friendly dance since it is a "free range setting"."

Naruto's breath hitched in his throat. What should he say? Yes? No? He felt a sudden pressure on his upper arms. To his shock, Neji had him in a tight hold and his bloodline activated. If things couldn't get any worse they did…Neji only tightened his grip on Naruto as he glared hatefully at Gaara.

"NARUTO…. IS NOT… GOING WITH YOU….YOU FOOL! Naruto is mine! Get it? And I will not let anyone, not even you ruin that! Gaara no Sabaku, you monster!" Gaara flinched. He ignored it for Naruto looked none too comfortable being tugged on like a ragged doll.

"Let him go, Neji, before you kill him," he pleaded to the perturbed brunette. Neji didn't falter, he gripped Naruto's thin arms harder. He winced. Anymore and his arms would break.

"Neji…onegai…stop please," he pleaded.

"Stay out of this, Naruto. This involves me and Sabaku over here!" He craned his head to yell at him.

"You forget it involves me as well…Hyuuga-trash!" a voice interjected. The next thing Neji knew, a fist connected with his face making him skid several inches across the floor. Neji shifted himself to glare at the person who dared punch him. He heard gasp of the surrounding crowd. He knew then who it was. Sasuke was exhibiting his bloodline and glaring at Neji with a hateful expression. It promised death and torture. His anger dissipated once a meek voice alerted him.

"S-S-Sasuke?" it asked. Sasuke deactivated his eyes. Naruto stood there not moving. He looked a little shaken but not hurt. He rushed over to him. He looked him over for any injuries. No he did not strip him. When he saw there were no apparent injuries he calmed down.

"Daijoubu?" he questioned. Naruto dimly nodded. He smiled. He put an arm around his fiancé. He turned to the audience. "I am happy to announce no harm has befallen my fiancé, in spite of the idiocy of Sabaku and Hyuuga here. I do not think it pertinent to let the actions of a few stop us from enjoying the night. Nor will it stop Naruto from enjoying the rest of his birthday," he winked at Naruto for that. The few who caught the inside joke winked to one another. "Although, this night is not only important because it's his birthday but because it marks a particular day in Konoha's history. Now as you can see there are plenty of tables with available seating so you can examine. The presentation will begin in about 25 minutes. In the meantime, take that time to arrange your seating arrangements with your guest, as well as families".

Sasuke ushered Naruto over to where the king and queen were. That was where the royal family would sit. The Uchiha stopped a few inches where Neji was dusting his clothes off. He had a tiny bit of blood trickling down his nose. Violet and black stared one another down. It was the owner of the black eyes that spoke.

"Now Neji…I shall let your offense against me slide to save both our families face. However, it would be in best interest that you not step within twenty feet of Naruto again or you shall regret it. Do not think I am not aware of your true intentions nor that I shall stand by while you shamelessly touch him with your filthy hands. Be fortunate he was not injured by your hands. I would have actually killed you on the spot if you did. Now go clean yourself up, before you shame yourself and your family even further. Enjoy the rest of the banquet," he spat before spinning on his heels.

Neji bowed his head in shame. His eyes were hidden behind his hair so no one could see the emotions in his eyes. But if they did, they would see anger and shame. He needed to clear his head. Perhaps he could even meditate in the garden. With that thought in mind he did that.

Gaara took a sip of his glass. He smirked to himself as he watched the Hyuuga leave the room with his tail between his legs. Although he felt bad for how things had gone down, but at least his objective ran smoothly. He had royally screwed things up for Neji. So now it was his turn to try to woo the petite blonde away from Sasuke. It would be killing two birds with one stone. He was the prince of Sunagakure, and he always got what he wanted.

The crows dispersed to try to find seats for a good view. Whatever this show was about, it was sure to be a riot. A hooded figure took the distraction to slip into the ballroom. His black mask hid his eyes. He scanned the crowd for his objective. He was quite frustrated he couldn't see him through the ever moving crowd. No matter, he had time and then when it came, that is when he would make his move.


Finally! The chapter has been completed, my friends. This chapter has not been what I intended for it. Hey that is what proof-reading, deleting, and editing will do to you. I hope everyone enjoyed reading it. It's one of my longest chapters. We all get to see the infamous Uchiha/Hyuuga/Sabaku hate triangle. Gaara is such a conniving little bastard isn't he? Setting up Neji, so he would blow his top and nearly injure Naruto in the process. Sneaky on his part. I wanted to add in the part about Ino and Shikamaru, but decided to add about that in the next chapter. I am still rather undecided on who Shikamaru should end up with: Ino or Temari…hmmmm. We get a tiny glimpse of the Hyuuga's blood-line limit. Don't worry you will get to more of your favorite characters next chapter and the next. Fear not for Naruto. He is in good hands.

1. Not sure if they even had piñatas back then. It would still be funny to see Danzou get whacked around a bit for all the shit he caused people.

2. I had no idea how else to refer to him.

3. Naruto's creative little nickname for Danzou and Sai.

4. Shikamaru's "alias"

5. I suck at math so bad (mopes in corner)

6. Ever had red-velvet? It is soooooo good. A popular choice for wedding cakes

7. As a prince Sasuke has had to learn all sorts of language. For this it means: Very good! Goodbye my love! I will see you soon!

8. The Korean version of the Kyuubi. Basically they were shape-shifting female foxes who could turn into humans. Different versions represent them as both good and bad in nature.

9. I am sure many girls do this when with their special somebody.

10. Reminds me so much of my high school days.

11. As if that would be any surprise.

12. A common insult for Ino. For those who are unsure Ino translates to "boar". Thus the reason for the nickname for Ino.

13. A problem that many like myself have suffered on a number of occasions. During exercise, it's essential to have low-energy snacks and water handy in case.

Next Chapter: Fret not. Naruto is alright but Sasuke won't be too keen on letting him go anytime soon. Ino meets "Shin" gets in row with Temari. A band of performers gives our aristocrats a lovely history about Konoha's greatest battle. What are the intentions of the mysterious figure and what does he want with Naruto?