Authors note: Well Everyone I would like to apologize for taking so long to update the story but the transition chapters always seem to give me the most problems. Not much else to say but I hope you enjoy and thanks for the continued support. Oh one more thing i know the Two tailed cat was just introduced in the manga but i started writting about her before she was so sigh i know this story is on its own course seperate from the manga now. Example. I killed off Sai and brought Sasuke back in chapter 1. So If you dont like it I'm sorry but it's too late to change anything now. I didnt want to go through and change Neko's name so I hope you dont mind that i gave her a different name and home village than in the manga.
Chapter 14:
Hina-chan…The voice that she heard sounded familiar but still it was not clear as to who or where it came from. Trying to lift her eyelids so that she could figure out the source, she was blinded by a bright light. She strained herself as the intense light prevented her from opening her eyes.
"Hina-chan…"
It was the same voice again. Slowly, she shrouded her eyes with her hand as she tried to accustom herself to the brightness. Gradually the light began to dim just enough so that when she rubbed her eyes she could make out her surroundings as everything came into focus.
"Hina-chan…"
She sat up in her futon and looked around but something about the room felt oddly different and yet very familiar. It was not the room that she had remembered for the past year but instead it was her room back in Konoha.
"Hina-chan…Wake up and come out here…"
She looked around the room again but there were no signs of any of the pictures that they had taken. There was just the plain, mostly white room.
Has it all been…just a …dream…
"Hina-chan, that's enough sleeping already. Come out here and help me" the voice remained soft and gentle. Getting to her feet, she still felt as if there was a glow about her room that she had never seen before. Not wanting to keep the person waiting any longer, she walked to the sliding door and placed her fingers on the handle just before she turned around again to make sure that there were really no remnants of her time at the temple.
Was I brought back to Konoha? Where are all of the pictures … Where is Naruto-kun…
All of the memories seemed so vivid and yet there was nothing to prove their existence. Sliding the door open, she stepped out into the corridor and looked out at the courtyard. Yet again, there was something that was slightly different about the courtyard. It was covered with many more plants than she recalled. The only time she could even think of when there were these many plants was when she was younger.
"Hina-chan. Come over and help me." Hinata turned her head to the end of the courtyard that was closest to her. A feeling of shock rushed over her body as she saw who the voice had come from.
She held her hand slightly in front of herself as if she were reaching for the person.
"Hina-chan are you just going to watch me or are you going to help me?" Hinata shook her head, still unsure about what was happening but gradually she managed to shift her feet and walk towards the figure. When she finally got to the person standing in the courtyard she placed a hand on the ladies shoulder as if unsure if she was real.
"…Okaa-san….." The words slipped out of her mouth as she stood there waiting for the lady to turn around.
Showing her face the lady smiled at Hinata as she held her watering pot in her hand and continued to water the plants. "Good morning….Hina-chan" It had been years since Hinata had seen her mother and now she was frozen in her footsteps as she tried to force herself to say more.
"Okaa-san…….How…." trying to manage the conversation she just continued to stare at her mom who was now facing her and holding the pot towards her. Taking the pot she started to water a few plants as she kept her eyes focused on her mom.
"Come with me Hina-chan and I'll explain everything to you" They began to walk around the courtyard from plant to plant pouring some water into each one.
"Okaa-san….are we back in Konoha.." Her words were now becoming more pronounced as she tried to figure out the truth of her surroundings.
Her mother stopped watering the plants and turned towards her. "Hina-chan why don't we sit down for a little bit." She took the watering pots and set them aside as they sat on the steps next to the courtyard. "Do you remember what happened before you woke up here Hina-chan?"
Closing her eyes she could see the fight that had taken place and she could remember looking into Naruto's eyes as he was regaining consciousness just before the Kyubi's tails had struck her. "Yes Okaa-san, I was trying to keep my promise to …. Umm to someone." She paused unsure if she should tell her mom about Naruto. Trying to change the subject she again inquired about where they were. "Okaa-san…I've missed you..but…..if I'm with you now…does this mean…." Thoughts of Naruto ran through her mind as she tried to hold back her sadness. She knew that if this was where her mother was then there was no doubt that now Naruto was alone.
"It's ok Hina-chan. You don't have to hide your feelings from me. I've always been watching over you." She placed her arms around Hinata and gave her a hug before standing up and walking over to a nearby flower pot. Picking a flower she came back to Hinata and held it out towards her. "I even know about Naruto" Hinata looked at the lily that her mom was holding that resembled the one that Naruto had given to her.
"Does this mean I've died Okaa-san?" Hinata glanced towards her mother, bracing for the news that she would be separated from Naruto.
Her mom looked at her and gave her a reassuring smile. "You really love him don't you Hina-chan." Hinata blushed as she nodded to confirm her moms intuition. "I'm glad you were able to find someone who saw you and loved you for what so few people were able to see." She placed her hand on the side of Hinata's cheek as she took another look at her daughter. "…and you've grown into such a beautiful young lady…..I couldn't be more proud of you for how you've lived your life thus far…." Leaning in she gave Hinata a kiss on her forehead. "But Hina-chan… you aren't meant to be here yet….he still needs you…" Hinata's eyes widened as she listened intently to what her mom was saying.
"So does this mean that I'm not…" her mom shook her head as she continued to smile.
"Right now you're in a coma Hina-chan….but it's almost time for you to go back.." She stood up and held out her arms towards the entrance to the courtyard. "You don't have much time and a friend of yours is still waiting for you at the entrance."
Hinata stood up and looked at the entrance where another figure stood. "I miss you so much Okaa-san." Not showing much reservation she reached out and hugged her mom.
"I know Hina-chan…take care of your sister and tell your father I miss him when you see them again." They slowly released each other from their grips as Hinata was motioned to go to the enterance. "….Hina-chan…one more thing before you leave…if the time ever comes when you are forced to choose between the one you love and your loyalties…I'll always be there supporting you with whatever decision you make." Slowly the figure of her mother disappeared into the air in the courtyard.
"Okaa-san…" Knowing there was nothing left to do, she walked towards the figure in entrance. It did not take her long to recognize who it was from the showy outfit and the orange colored hair.
"Hey Hinata. It's about time you came too." She smiled as Hinata began to tear up knowing that if Neko was here they had failed her. "Hey! Would you stop that already Hinata. I'm fine here. Don't worry about me. Besides it's a big relief to not have that damn two tailed cat inside me anymore."
"I'm sorry I failed you Neko-sama." Hinata rubbed her eyes trying to pull back her tears.
"What are you talking about. I talked to your mom before you woke up here and she told me you reached level three of the protekuto jutsu. As far as I'm concerned I helped train you so I'm damn proud of you. But that's why you're going to have to go back." Before she could continue Hinata jumped in with a glimmer of hope.
"Can't you come back with me then?" Neko smiled at the comment but shook her head.
"No Hinata. I'm actually dead. You're just in a coma now, where you're soul must decide what it wants to do. But of course there is no way I'm going to be letting you stay here. So follow me." Hinata walked next to Neko as she was lead down the street to a giant wall with a door at its base. "Gee you know… I just wish I had met someone who loved me as much as you and Naruto love each other."
"I know there has to be a way to bring you back Neko-sama. When we find your body I know we can find a way." Neko placed her hand on Hinata's shoulders to stop her before she could continue.
"Don't worry about me anymore. Now that you've reached the third level, you're love for Naruto is as pure and unconditional as it can be. The world needs that, so go back to him. Just do me a favor and look after Futoi for me and make sure Machi and everyone else at the temple know that I'm ok." Hinata nodded still not wanting to leave Neko behind. All she wanted was to bring her friend and mentor back with her. "Go on Hinata. Everything is ok now."
Hinata now faced the door, placed her hand on the handle and turned the knob. She took one last look at Neko whose eyes had suddenly turned orange. "I'll always be there reading your thoughts." She winked as the corners of Hinata's lips curled into a smile. She now faced the opened door and stepped through as her world was filled with darkness again.
Sitting there in a chair beside her bed, Naruto held Hinata's hand clinging to the hope that she would come back to him. It had been nearly a week since their fight with Akatsuki but still she had not shown any signs of improving. The bags under his eyes had grown since he could not bring himself to sleep for many hours, as every time he closed his eyes he saw himself giving into the Kyubi. He thought of himself as the one who caused Hinata to be in the condition she was in.
Periodically, the others at the temple would stop by and check up on the two but for the most part their conversations with Naruto were short as he found himself to be more distraught than he had ever been.
"Naruto-ni-san…" the door cracked open as Machi looked through it at Naruto. A faint smile was all he was able to managed as he motioned for her to enter the room. "Tougyo-sensei asked me to bring this to you." She handed him a bowl of ramen but even as he looked at it, he still had no appetite.
"Thanks Machi-chan but you can leave it on the dresser." He turned his attention back to Hinata. Walking over next to Naruto, Machi sat on the floor next to his chair.
"Do you mind if I stay a little bit Naruto-ni-san?" She looked up at him as he kept his tired smile on his face.
"You can sit on my lap Machi-chan" He picked her up and set her on his lap as they both looked on at Hinata. Much of the night continued on with them not saying much as they kept their focus on Hinata. A few hours passed before the door opened just a little bit more sending a cool breeze into the room. Looking down at his feet he saw Futoi rub up against his leg and then plop down next to both him and Machi. The night had taken hold of Machi as she began to breath deeply in her slumber. Laying her down at the foot of Hinata's bed, he placed his jacked across her body. The rest of the night he started to talk to Hinata as if she could hear every word that he was saying.
"Do you remember that time when we first started training Hina-chan? When we tried to catch a fish and both ended up getting soaked?" He would bring up random thoughts that came through his mind, hoping the she would respond to his questions but still only silence filled the room. Lifting his jacket slightly off of Machi he reached into a pocket and pulled out a card that had a lily that was pressed and dried on it. "Do you remember the night that I gave you the other one…" his voice trailed off as he clung to the flower and Hinata's hand. Eventually the darkness consumed his mind and he slipped into another dream.
There he was again facing the Kyuubi, who was now standing in front of him laughing.
I don't need you… He kept telling himself this over and over but still, he was plagued by the thoughts of his own powerlessness against Akatsuki. The more the battle ran through his mind the more he felt like he had no choice but to give into the Kyuubi to protect the people he cared for.
Maybe…maybe… I have no choice…
"That's right Naruto… You need my…" The voice of the Kyuubi was interrupted as he awoke from his nap. There was a gentle pressure that was being applied to his hand. He quickly opened his eyes, got off his chair and leaned up close against the side of Hinata's bed.
"Hina-chan….Hinata…. Hina-chan… can you hear me…" He whispered softly at her. Slowly her eyes began to blink as a huge smile came across his face.
"Naruto…kun…" He had never felt so glad to hear his own name. Futoi now jumped up on the other side of Hinata's bed and was now meowing and laying next to her arm. Before she could say anything else Naruto had rushed out of the room yelling to inform everyone at the temple that Hinata had woken up from her coma.
The lights in the temple began to flicker on as Jiraiya, Taira, Tougyo, Seichou and Naruto ran back into Hinata's room. They all greeted her as she tried to sit up and greet them all.
"Hey.. just wait a minute there Hinata-chan. You lay back down and rest yourself. You may have been in a coma but you're body is still not a hundred percent." Jiraiya placed his hand on her shoulders relieved that he would be able to return to Konoha with both of his apprentices.
Tougyo walked over to Hinata and gave her his traditional big smile and leaned down so that his head was closer to hers. "You know Hinata, you had Naruto here pretty worried. He wouldn't even eat any ramen that we gave him." Hinata smiled as she looked over to the door where Naruto was still standing quietly. Machi had woken up when everyone else came in and was now trying to hug Hinata but Taira pulled her off just incase Hinata was not fully healed yet. It was still not dawn so they all figured that it would be best to let Hinata rest and talk when the sun came up the following morning.
"Alright everybody out. Hinata still needs to get her rest." Taira forced everyone out as they all walked by Naruto. He had not said anything the whole time since Hinata had been awake and as the last person left the room he smiled at her and turned to follow everyone else. Even Futoi had left the room following Machi.
"Naruto-kun…." She called after him unsure as to why he had not spoken to her since she had come out of her coma. He stopped with his back to her not moving. "…Naruto-kun… don't leave me yet…" her voice trailed off as she felt that maybe it was inappropriate for her to be asking him to stay.
Slowly he shifted his feet so that he was facing her and walked back to her bedside. Sitting in the chair he tried to give her a forced smile but she had been around him long enough to know that something was bothering him. "Is something wrong Naruto-kun?" She was now forcing herself to sit up in bed as she reached for his hand.
Placing both his hands around hers he looked reluctantly down at the ground. "Everything is fine now that you're awake Hina-chan." She gave his hand a little tug to get him to move closer to her bed. He pulled his chair towards her but still kept his eyes on the ground.
"You look so tired Naruto-kun" she placed her hand on his cheek as she tried to get him to look at her. Still he could not bring himself to do so. "Naruto-k…" She was about to say something more but he began talking as he kept his eyes fixed on the floor.
"Hina-chan….I…I was the one who did this too you….If it wasn't for me.." His eyes began to get glassy with tears but knowing what was bothering him from the few words he had spoken Hinata would not let him finish.
"If it wasn't for you then I wouldn't be who I am today. If it wasn't for you I would have died long before the Kyubi took control of you. Yes, Naruto-kun you did do this to me, you made me stronger." She rarely spoke up but she knew even in her weakened state that he needed her.
Gradually, his fake smile was replaced by a real one, as he managed to lift his eyes and look at her. "You haven't sounded so sure of yourself since the time before I took the Chuunin exam." He leaned in and gave her a kiss on the cheek. "But Neko…I really did fail her."
"Naruto-kun… She's ok now. I talked to her.."
"You did … but how?"
The remainder of the night Naruto listened as Hinata explained to him what she saw and experienced while she was in her coma. When she was done he still felt a little guilt but was comforted by the thought that Neko was alright where she was.
"I should let you rest now Hina-chan." He squeezed her hand as he got up off the chair. Still she wouldn't let go.
"…Naruto-kun…well… umm.." she began to stutter as she tried to give him a request.
"What is it Hina-chan? Do you need anything? I'll go get it right away"
"No Naruto-kun.. I well… I've missed you…and I know it's not appropriate… and it's against the rules… but …will you stay with me tonight…" her cheeks began to grow warmer as she loosened her grip on his hand so that he could leave if he choose to. Surprised by her question he stood there for a second not knowing what to do but as her hand began to slip from his he squeezed it gently again as he nodded at her. Walking around to the other side of the bed he slipped under the covers and placed one arm around her shoulders. She looked him in the eyes as she felt his warm touch on her skin. Closing her eyes she pressed her lips against his as he applied the pressure back on hers. Slowly withdrawing herself as she began to breath deeply, she smiled knowing that she had missed the feeling that ran through her body when he was near. This night as she lay next to him, clinging to his body, she knew that the battle was just beginning so she hugged him more tightly. Every moment she knew could be their last as long as Naruto had the Kyubi in him but that was a chance she had always been willing to take. Eventually she laid her head into his chest falling back to sleep as he held her in his arms.
"Goodnight Hina-chan……I love you" he whispered as he kissed the top of her head.
It was the first time in a week that he was able to sleep peacefully and have dreams that he wanted to not wake up from. Her body next to his still made his heart race and with her by his side he knew that together they could accomplish anything.
It took another two weeks before Hinata's body had healed enough for them to be able to get on their way back to Konoha. During that time Naruto had become his usual carefree self again as he vowed to play as many pranks on Tougyo as he could to honor Neko's memory. He had come to terms with what had happened in their fight with Akatsuki but still everyday we would spend a little time by himself, promising to never use the Kyubi again.
They stood in their rooms making sure that everything was packed after having to spend a few extra weeks at the temple they wanted to be positive that nothing important was left behind.
"Hinata! Naruto! Come out here real quick!" Tougyo was standing in the middle of the courtyard as they both rushed out to greet him.
"Hey Sensei I told you I wouldn't play any pranks today so if something happened it wasn't me." Naruto stood there thinking and wondering if he had in fact done something that he did not remember.
"Is there something we can do for you Tougyo-sensei?" Hinata stood there confused as to why Tougyo wanted them to come to the courtyard so urgently.
Staring at them with a bright smile he took another step towards the both of them. "Yes I need you both to go bring something out here. I have a gift for the both of you."
"Ummm Sensei what exactly are we supposed to bring out?" Naruto stood there confused by Tougyo's request.
He walked in front of both Hinata and Naruto and placed one hand on each of their shoulders. "You both sure have grown since the first day you arrived here." He paused as he thought back to the day when they had first started their training. "And my how your love for each other has blossomed." Hinata began to blush as Naruto scratched his head with one hand and smiled at the comment. "I need you both to bring something that is very important to you and then I'll explain."
Still unsure as to why he was asking them to do such a thing they walked back into their rooms and looked around before walking back out. Naruto kept his item in his pocket as Hinata had hers in an album.
"This is something that I wish I would have done with Neko before it was too late." Tougyo motioned for them to hold the item in front of him. Slowly Hinata opened her album and took out the flower as she looked at Naruto and blushed. He had seen the album when they first arrived at the temple but still she felt embarrassed by the fact that she had kept it so long. "You too Naruto"
Once again he started to scratch his head with his free hand as the hand in his pocket slowly came out to reveal a flower that was identical to Hinata's. Her eyes opened wide as she looked at the flower and then back at Naruto.
Tougyo stood there smiling as he looked at the scene unfolding in front of him.
The same item…truly they were meant for each other.
With his free hand Naruto reached for Hinata's as she held onto his. "So, Sensei why did you have us bring an important item out here for?"
Tougyo walked closer as he placed the palm of his hand on top of their item, which they were holding in their own palms. "I need you both to focus on each other now and don't for one second stop think about anything else." Naruto and Hinata looked at each other with soft eyes knowing that this was the easiest task that Tougyo had given them since they had arrived at the temple.
Abruptly Tougyo's arms began to glow as his chakra emanated down to his fingertips. They both focused their thoughts as Tougyo had ordered them to but now their chakra in their hands was beginning to manifest uncontrollably which almost caused them to lose their focus.
"What is happening Tougyo-sensei?" Hinata squeezed Naruto's hand as some of their chakra began to seep out of their body and into Tougyo. A flash of energy erupted sending Tougyo jumping back breathing deeply as the two ran to his side.
"Hey Sensei! What the heck did you just do?" Naruto put Tougyo's arm around his shoulders to support the monk's weight.
He slowly raised his eyes as he started to laugh. "Tougyo-sensei?" Hinata looked on worried as she thought something had happened to him.
"Oh Hinata you're always worrying too much" He took his arm off of Naruto's shoulder and pointed to their hands. "It took a little out of me but it worked." They looked down at their palms and something unique had happened. The dried flowers that they had in their hands were suddenly giving off a faint glow and causing the chakra waves around them to change.
"Uhh…. Sensei… what the heck are the flowers doing? You really got me confused here" Naruto looked again at the flower puzzled by why the dead flower suddenly had chakra flowing out of it.
Before Tougyo could answer Hinata looked again at her flower and realized what had just happened. "The way this flower changes the chakra waves is exactly like Naruto-kun…." She thought again for a second and then turned to Tougyo. "Tougyo-sensei, you transferred a small amount of our chakra into the flowers? Is that why you took control of our chakra for a little while?
Tougyo placed his palm on Hinata's cheek. "I'm going to miss you Hinata, you are really one of the brightest young girls I have ever met." Turning back to Naruto who was still a little confused he began to explain. "I put some of your chakra into the other's flower so now you guys will always be able to find each other. As long as the other person is carrying their flower and still alive, they will act as a tracking signal for you to always be able to find each other. So Needless to say, always keep it on you no matter where you go."
"Hey! This is awesome Sensei. Now no matter what happens I'll always be able to find Hina-chan" Naruto wrapped his arms around Hinata excited that there was no way they would be separated.
"Yes, just remember the signal will only stop if the other person has died." As Tougyo finished up his explanation of this last gift Jiraiya walked into the courtyard with his backpack packed and ready to go.
"Alright you two, Lets get going on the road now. I'll have a few frogs carry the remainder of the stuff you can't carry back to Konoha. But lets be on our way." They ran back into their rooms to get their stuff and returned to find Seichou, Machi, Taira, and Futoi waiting for them at the entrance.
"Thanks again for training these two kids Tougyo-sensei." Jiraiya then turned his attention to Taira. "You know you could always come back to Konoha with me." Taira slapped him over the face to which he responded by laughing it off and acting as if he was joking.
"Naruto-ni-san, I will miss you very much. You and Hina-san better come back to visit!" tears began to run down Machi's cheek as she knew that her two closest friends at the temple would be leaving her.
"Hey Machi-chan you just be sure to take care of Futoi for us and we'll be back to visit once we take care of some business with Akatsuki." Naruto picked her up and swung her around as she began to smile gleefully. Placing her down Hinata walked over to her.
"Machi-chan, you sure have grown up over the past year. When you are old enough come to Konoha and visit us too ok?" Machi nodded and threw her arms around Hinata's waist.
"Oh hey Machi-chan I almost forgot." Naruto pulled out a packaged that was wrapped in a brown bad. Whispering into Machi's ear's he told her to not open it completely but that she could take a peak.
She pulled back the corner of the bag and realized what it was. She jumped into Naruto's arms one more time as she saw the kimono inside it.
"Shhh…. Don't let Hina-chan know ok. I'm going to give her one too when we get back to Konoha." Machi nodded as she put the package behind her so that Hinata could not see it.
"Naruto-kun… what did you just give Machi-chan?" Hinata looked on suspiciously.
"Oh it was nothing" before Hinata could keep asking questions Tougyo decided it was time for them to part.
"Alright, I hate long goodbyes so you three be safe. Well actually you four." Tougyo pointed to Seichou he stepped forward. "We're going to have Seichou go with you guys in case Akatsuki tries anything on your way back to Konoha." They all said one last goodbye before heading out the temple gates and on their way to Konoha. "Jiraiya hold on one second." The three of them continued on ahead as Tougyo walked up to Jiraiya.
"What is it Sensei?" Jiraiya looked down and noticed Tougyo pulling something out from underneath his robe.
"This doesn't belong here anymore. If Akatsuki is planning to do what I think they are planning to do then there is no other way but to give this to you." He pulled out a scroll and handed it to Jiraiya.
"Is this what I think it is Sensei?" Jiraiya kept his eyes fixed on the scroll.
"When the time comes Jiraiya. You will have to look through this and teach it to them." He looked forward in the direction of Hinata and Naruto. "It is clear now that only they will be capable of reaching the final level."
"Sensei…" Jiraiya hesitated remembering back to what he was told about the fourth level when he was younger. "I've toyed around with them about reaching the fourth level before but I also know that this level consist of only one jutsu…the sacrificial jutsu…." He paused also looking now in the direction of the two teenagers in front of him.
"I know Jiraiya…but…if the time comes there will be no other way…"
Jiraiya clutched the scroll tightly as he thought about Akatsuki. "We'll just have to make sure it never comes to that" he nodded his head to Tougyo and bid him farewell as he went to catch up to the others.
Their year of training at the temple had brought them many new memories and powers but now it was time for them to move forward. They knew it would only be a matter of time until they would have to face Akatsuki again. Clinging to the flower she had placed in a pocket near her heart she looked to Naruto as they jumped from tree to tree holding each other's hand.
Please don't ever let the chakra in this flower fade away…
The journey home had been far less eventful than the journey to the temple. It took them nearly three days to return as they had been for the most part taking their time so as not to rush Hinata who was still not a hundred percent healthy.
When they arrived back at the gates of Konoha the sun was nearly setting but it was still not late in the evening. The guards welcomed them back after their long time spent away at the temple. As they walked through the gates a sense of excitement rushed through them as they saw the old buildings and people. Nothing had changed in the past year. Grabbing onto Hinata's hand Naruto pulled her along ahead of Jiraiya and Seichou.
"Those kids sure do look excited to be back home don't they Seichou?"
"Yes, its been awhile since I've seen even Naruto with this much energy." Seichou stood there comforted by the fact that in the face of evil and danger the two kids in front of him still burned with a fire of selflessness and hope that he himself vowed he would do anything to protect.
"ALL RIGHT I'M TAKING HINA-CHAN TO ICHIRUKA RAMEN AS OUR FIRST OFFICIAL DATE IN KONOHA!" Naruto beamed with excitement as he nearly began to drool thinking about how much he missed the ramen in Konoha.
"Hey! Naruto!" Jiraiya yelled ahead after Naruto before he could get to far with Hinata who was trying to keep up with Naruto but laughing as carefree as she had since Naruto had known her. His excitement always made her feel more lively.
"Naruto-kun, Jiraiya-sama is calling you." She got to his side so that she was no longer being pulled along. "We should wait for him and Seichou-sama."
"But I'm so hungry…." A look of despair nearly covered his face. Suddenly he realized he could take advantage of the situation. "Alright, I'll wait for them under one condition." Looking around to make sure no one they knew was around because they were still in public Hinata quickly leaned towards him and gave him a kiss on the lips.
"Alright Naruto-kun… now you have to wait for them" Naruto stood there smiling knowing that Hinata already knew what he was going to ask for. Walking up to the two, Jiraiya had brought some bad news for Naruto.
"Hate to tell you this Naruto but I told Tsunade that we would go to her office the moment we arrived back in Konoha. She has probably been pretty worried ever since I wrote her the letter telling her about what happened with Akatsuki." Jiraiya pointed them in the direction of Tsunade's office.
"Ero-Sennin! Me and Hina-chan have already planned the date before you told us this so I refuse to go see Old Lady Tsunade." He stood there not budging until Jiraiya devised a new strategy.
"Alright Naruto if you and Hinata-chan come with me to Tsunade's I'll payyou're your ramen tonight." He grinned as though he had other plans in mind.
"REALLY! YOU'RE NOT LYING THIS TIME!" Jiraiya shook his head and upon seeing so Naruto grabbed Hinata's hand and sped off toward Tsunade's office as she turned towards Jiraiya and Seichou smiling while she was being pulled along enjoying every minute of Naruto's happiness.
They stood outside Tsunade's office for what seemed to be hours as they were told that Tsunade was already in a meeting. Naruto paced back and forth as Hinata sat down patiently looking through her picture albumn of the pictures of all their trips into the town by the temple. Running her hand down each picture she could envision the joy that those days with Naruto had brought. Still, in the back of her mind she knew that she was now back in Konoha and there were still going to be issues with the Hyuga household.
I wonder….i wonder if Otoo-san will accept Naruto the way Okaa-san has… She pondered the thought knowing that it would only be a matter of time before her family and their friends would know.
"Naruto-kun, I'm going to go to the bathroom for a little bit." Naruto nodded as she walked down the hall.
As she exited from the area the door to Tsunade's office swung open as three girls came out from the office.
"NARUTO!"
"HEY NARUTO! HOW HAVE YOU BEEN!" Ino walked up to Naruto and welcomed him back.
"Naruto!"
"Umm… Sakura-chan… are you ok?" He looked over to the pink hair girl who was saying his name and looking at him in disbelief. In their absence both Ino and Sakura had grown taller into fully grown mature women. However, looking at Naruto, Sakura could still not believe the person who was standing in front of her.
"Bring your team in Jiraiya" Tsunade's voice came beaming through the door at them.
"Hey Sakura-chan I have to do this meeting with Tsunade but how about we catch up at Ichiruka Ramen tomorrow morning around Ten? I'll bring Hina.." He was interrupted by Shizune, who was hurrying the girls to the hospital.
"Come on you two there are patients who just arrived from a mission who need our help It's good to see you Naruto-kun but we'll catch up later."
"Yea Naruto… tomorrow we'll catch up." She took one more look at Naruto before turning to follow Shizune.
"Hey, Sakura… he's getting way cuter every time he goes away and comes back to Konoha… are you sure you're ok waiting for Sasuke-kun…I mean… he rarely spends time with you and you two aren't even dating…"
"Ino… I told Sasuke-kun I would wait by his side…" she turned around again to see Naruto going into the door.
How do I let him know what I've promised Sasuke-kun…I'll have to let him down gently tomorrow…
"Well, I'm still single." Ino turned around as well to look at Naruto "So since you took Sasuke-kun away from me… maybe I should give Naruto a chance.." The continued hurrying down the halls when Hinata came out from the bathroom in front of them.
"Hinata-san! It's good to see you. I hope Naruto didn't cause you too much trouble during your training." Sakura imagined how tough it probably was for Hinata.
"Oh no… Naruto-kun was.. he was great.." She spoke softly as she was still unaccustomed to talking to all her old friends. "It's good to see you and Ino-san as well" She bowed her head slightly to be polite.
"We'll see you around Hinata-san but for now Shizune is going to kill us if we don't get to the hospital soon."
They wished each other farewell and Hinata walked down the hall to Tsunade's office where Naruto had returned outside making the Hokage wait so that Hinata and he could enter together.
"Thank you Naruto-kun." She began to walk through the door and as she got inside completely Naruto walked right next to her and grabbed her hand. Hinata was caught off guard and she had not thought that Naruto would show such affection in front of Tsunade. Not missing anything Tsunade interest was suddenly piqued even more by what she saw and she turned her head to the side to look at Jiraiya.
"So…I see some things have developed while you have been away from Konoha." She kept looking at Jiraiya while she spoke. "But of course I wouldn't know since Jiraiya here didn't feel like it was necessary to inform me about very much except for the fact that your training was coming along nicely."
"Nicely? Its been great! Hina-chan has already reached level three of the protekuto jutsu" Naruto spoke proudly of Hinata although deep down he still felt guilty at the fact that she was the one who needed to use it to save him. Mostly though, he knew after learning about how a person reached the third level that Hinata's feelings for him were sincere and unconditional.
"WHAT? Third level. Again she turned to Jiraiya who was sitting there with a guilty smile knowing that he had not taken the time out to inform Tsunade about much of what had taken place. "Alright, you four, including you Seichou-san, which by the way it's good to see you again, will be staying here and telling me everything that happened from the day you got there."
"Tell you everything! Me and Hinata still have to get to Ichiruka's before it closes." Try as he did Tsunade was not going to let him out of her office until she knew about everything.
"Naruto your team already failed the mission so you're going to tell me everything starting from the day you arrived at the temple." She looked over at Hinata and Naruto who suddenly had become somber at the mention of their mission failure. Reluctantly they sat down in the chairs directly opposite of Tsunade and began to tell her the details.
When it was over the night had completely covered the sky and there was an air of silence left in the room. Tsunade now knew that she had been a too hasty in what she has said to them earlier.
"I'm sorry about Neko-san. What you two did to try to protect her was very valiant." She stopped as she decided that the sound of Neko's name was still tough for them even though they had tried hard to accept what had happened. "Alright you two are excused, Seicou-san I'll have a guard prepare an apartment for you. As for you Jiraiya, there's still something we have to discuss
"Hey Ero-Sennin, Ichiruka's is probably closed now so you can pay for us tomorrow." Naruto although disappointed decided that at least they would get a free meal.
"Nope Naruto I said I would pay for it tonight and seeing as how tomorrow is not tonight I don't have to pay anymore." A vein in Naruto's head began to bulge as he began to become irate. Jiraiya stood there laughed to himself impressed with his own genius.
"Naruto-kun, it's alright. We should be headed home now. My father has probably been expecting my arrival home." For some reason the thought of Hinata's father has never really crossed his mind. He immediately turned around and began to walk down the hallway holding Hinata's hand as his mind filled with thoughts of meeting her father.
"Hey Tsunade, so you wanted me to stay so we could be alone is thar right?" Jiraiya lowered his voice to a deeper tone as he tried to make himself more appealing. However, even Tsunade this time ignored him as it appeared there was something more serious bothering her.
"I can't believe they reached that high of a level in that short of a time." She sat there staring off into the distance.
"Yea, well they're gifted pupils. What's the big deal?" He looked over at Tsunade who slowly turned towards him.
"I didn't think it was possible for them to fall that far in love with each other. I mean I had hoped they would to complete the jutsu but….we have a problem on our hands"
"Hey would you relax a little Tsunade. What's the big deal?" her blank stare suddenly focused back on Jiraiya.
"You were supposed to be back weeks ago. At that time Hiashi had come to retrieve Hinata. When we received word of what happened I invited Hiashi to have some tea with me." She paused as she tried to recall all the details of the conversation. "While having tea he happened to slip and revealed that Hinata has had her marriage arrange to another member of the Hyuga household."
Jiraia stood there in shock as he tried to find the right words."We can't let this happen."
"There's nothing we can do. We can't interfere with the Hyuga. You know that as well as I do."
"They are meant to be together Tsunade. Level Three! If they don't have each other…." He reached into his backpack and pulled out a scroll as he was having a hard time clearing his thoughts.
"What is that?" Jiraiya handed the scroll to Tsunade.
"It's the Forth level jutsu. Tougyo-sensei told me before we left the temple that I had to make sure that I read and learned the scroll to that I could assist in teaching it to them. Only they are capable of this. When the time comes if they don't have each other. It could be a hopeless battle. Only them two together are capable of this jutsu." He tried desperately to convince Tsunade to find a way but even he knew that it was hopeless.
Tsunade clutched the scroll as she looked out her window knowing that there was turmoil that was going to enter into both Naruto and Hinata's lives.
I'm sorry…Naruto…
Knowing that there was nothing else he could say Jiraiya decided he should ask one more question. "Whose the boy Hinata is to marry?"
They walked through the empty street in much the same way they had when they first started their training except this time Naruto had wrapped his jacket around her and placed his arm on her shoulder as he tried to keep her warm in the chilly night.
"Hina-chan, do you think your family is going to like me." Naruto decided that he shouldn't avoid the question much longer.
She paused searching for the right response as they continued walking down the street. "I'm sure if they sit down and get to know you they will love you as much as I do." Pleased with her answer he gave her a kiss on the cheek to which she blushed as she usually did when he kissed her randomly. Her arm was around his waist as she held him close as they approached the Hyuga house.
When they arrived Hinata looker nervously around afraid that someone would see them as she did not want anyone to find out about Naruto before she had a chance to tell them. Still he ignored her nerves and turned her around so that she was facing him. Knowing that is had been a long time since he had beeen as far as he was going to be away from her this night, he closed his eyes and pressed his lips to hers. Almost immediately her concerns were gone as he put his hands on her cheeks and continued to send his emotions from his body to hers. He slowly pulled back just slightly keeping his hand on her cheek as they both opened their eyes and looked at each other .
"I love you Naruto-kun" She lunged forward slightly and returned the kiss as she thought about all he had done for her over the past year. When the kiss had ended she stood in the enterance to the Huyga courtyard waving goodnight to him.
"Oh hey Hina-chan, tomorrow I'm meeting Sakura-chan at Ichiruka at Ten in the morning. Will you come with me too? We still have to have our first date in Konoha there." Smiling at his request she nodded and turned into the courtyard and held her hand to her chest where the dried flower was. She closed her eyes and felt him still near her as he did the same walking down the street knowing that she was always right beside him. Most of the Hyuga were asleep already except for the light in her father's room, which turned off as she walked through the courtyard to her own room. She slid the door open and went inside looking around and remembering the vision she had the last time she was in the room. This time however she walked over to the dresser and placed a picture frame on it. Inside the frame was the first picture that her and Naruto had taken together when they were tricked by Jiraiya. It was her favorite one because in that picture she felt that Naruto had looked at her in a way that no one else ever had. Slowly she changed and slide into her futon on the ground as she braced herself for what was to come now that they were back in Konoha.
Arriving back at his apartment he slowly opened the door to find that it was the same as when he had left it. He emptied his stuff on the ground and placed the same picture that Hinata had put on her dresser on his nightstand. Reaching into his backpack he pulled out the kimono that was packaged up and smiled knowing that it was only a day or so more until he would give it to Hinata. Crawling into his bed he took out the dried flower and stared at it for a little while feeling Hinata's chakra surround him. He kissed it and placed it next to the picture frame and slowly fell asleep thinking about how great tomorrow morning's breakfast would be.
The following morning Hinata woke up and got ready early, knowing that now that she was back home she had to perform her duties. She made the tea and set it on the step for her father before getting ready to go meet Naruto at Ichiruka. As she was about to leave a familiar face entered into the courtyard.
"Hinata-sama. It has been awhile since I last saw you" She turned around to find Neji standing in the middle of the courtyard.
"Neji-ni-san. It's good to see you. I hope everything has been well here in Konoha."
"Yes everything has been fine." They both paused as Hiashi stepped into view with Hanabi at his side.
Hanabi had grown over the past year to nearly Hinata's height although she was more lanky than Hinata, as she had yet to fill out her body.
"I see you returned last night from your mission."
"Yes Otoo-san we spent most of the evening talking to Godaime Hokage-sama"
"I have to attend some meetings with the other Hyuga today but when I return later tonight there is something I must talk to you about." He walked passed her as she nodded her head.
"Yes Otoo-san"
"Hanabi, you will continue your training with Neji while I am gone today."
"Yes Otoo-san" She replied as she turned to Neji so that they could start their training.
Once Hiashi had left the courtyard Hinata went back into her room to gather a few more things before heading out to meet Naruto at Ichiruka.
She bowed and told Neji and Hanabi that she would return later before leaving the courtyard to spend her first day back with Naruto.
"So are you really going to tell him that you're going to wait for Sasuke-kun?" Ino walked next to Sakura as she had decided that it might be best if someone was around to ease Naruto's heartache.
"I have to or else he won't ever move on with his life." They continued toward Ichiruka where Naruto had arrived early and was trying to control himself from eating without everyone else.
As he sat there waiting Ino and Sakura looked on from the building across the street. "Seriously Sakura, he looks super cute now are you sure you want to ruin any chance you'll ever have with him?" Sakura stood there for a second looking at Naruto's back, which was broad and filled with muscles.
"I…. I …well.." she hesitated knowing that although she always thought of Naruto as annoying that he had always been there for her. Still she knew it had to be done. "I have no choice. I made a promise to Sasuke-kun."
"Alright then. I guess I might give him a chance then" Sakura ignored Ino's comment as they walked towards the ramen shop.
When they arrived Naruto greeted them both and insisted they have a seat. "You guys can go ahead and order I'm still waiting." Thinking that it was weird that Naruto was waiting to order ramen she thought about it for a second but decided it was nothing. Not wanting to prolong anything, Sakura figured that she would tell Naruto right away.
"Hey Naruto, there's something that I have to tell you." She took a deep breath as he turned his attention to her. "Well you see, I know about your feelings..."
"Naruto-kun.." a soft voice came into the Ramen shop as Naruto swung around in his chair to find Hinata a few feet behind him. He went up next to her wrapped his arms around her and picked her up as he gave her a big hug.
"I missed you last night" He gave her a kiss on the lips to which she turned bright red knowing that Ino and Sakura were both in front of them.
The two girls stood there shocked by what they were seeing. "Naruto…and Hinata-san?" the words barley came out of Ino's mouth as her jaw had nearly dropped to the ground shocked by the couple she saw in front of her.
"Naruto-kun… not in public." Naruto set her down and insisted she sit on the other side of him.
"Sorry Sakura-chan. What was it that you wanted to say to me?" Sakura froze and she had no idea what she should say now.
"I .. I .. well.. I wanted to say that I had a feeling that something would have happened between you and Hinata-san while you were away." Naruto smiled at the comment as he looked towards Hinata who was still blushing from Naruto's public display of affection.
"So how did it happen?" Ino jumped in curious about the new gossip that she could spread to all of their friends.
"We'll tell you all about it but first lets order!"
The next hour was spent catching up and telling Ino and Sakura about their time at the temple, with Naruto filling in all the embarrassing details. Sakura stayed silent the whole time as she still had not gotten over the shock that Naruto was actually with Hinata. Before long both Ino and Sakura had to head off to the hospital.
"Naruto and Hinata, you know I would have never guessed that couple could have happened but there's something about them that just seems so peaceful and right don't you think Sakura?" She looked over to Sakura who still seemed somewhat dazed and confused. "Sakura?"
"Oh yea… I'm really happy for them." She looked back one more time at Naruto and Hinata who were still in the ramen shop as Naruto began working on his third bowl of ramen.
I just never thought that… her thoughts trailed off as she shook her head and regained her composure enough to continue walking with Ino to their job.
Eventually Naruto finished his Ramen and paid the bill for both himself and Hinata before grabbing her hand so that they could go meet some of their friends around the town. Naruto's excitement always seemed to make Hinata feel as though great things were always going to happen. They had not gone far until they ran into a familiar figure.
"Kakashi-senei!" he turned around surprised at what he saw.
"Naruto? Hinata-chan?" He looked down to their hands that were locked together and then back at Naruto.
"How have you been Kakshi-sensei.?" Naruto was filled with questions but there was one in particular that he wanted to ask.
"I've been good and I see something has happened while you were gone." He looked over to Hinata and gave her a friendly smile as she continued to blush everytime people looked at her realizing that her and Naruto were a couple. "How are you Hinata-chan."
"I'm well Kakashi-sama"
"Kakashi-sensei…..where's.."
"Naruto…." A familiar voice from behind him has spoken his name except this time it was not Hinata.
"Sasuke…" he slowly turned around to where his eyes met his old teammates.
They stood there silent just looking at each other knowing that they both wanted to test their strength and see how much the other had grown.
"Hey Naruto, do you and Hinata want to come train with us for the day?" Kakashi thought that perhaps Sasuke and himself could use a break from their rigorous training.
"Kakashi, they couldn't keep. It would be a waste of our time." Sasuke's voice was calm and still devoid of much emotion.
"What are you talking about Hina-chan could probably kick your butt by herself if she was a hundred percent!" Naruto never hesitated when his own powers were brought into question.
"Is that so Naruto? Would you like to try?" They stood there staring at each other as the tension continued to build.
"Just name the place and time Sasuke."
"Hey you two how about you guys have a friendly reunion for once." Kakashi tried to calm the both of them as Hinata felt a shiver run down her spine from the negative atmosphere. She gripped onto Naruto's hand as he realized that she was uncomfortable and toned it down so that he was calm again.
"Ten Tomorrow morning at the training grounds." He continued to look at Naruto who nodded before he turned back to Kakashi.
"Hey sensei I'm going to spend the day with Hina-chan so you guys go ahead and train." They walked away from each other as Hinata feared that something would happen to Naruto if he did spar with Sasuke the following day.
"Naruto-kun… I don't think that you should spar with him tomorrow."
"Don't worry Hina-chan we both won't take it too seriously. Besides as long as your there cheering me on I'm sure I'm stronger than him now." He kissed her on the cheek again to comfort her but still she worried.
"Just be careful."
"I will be only if…" She nearly rolled her eyes as he managed to always turn a serious conversation into a playful one. Still she leaned over and kissed him on the cheek. "Alright I will be extra careful."
They walked hand in hand down through the street to enjoy the remainder of the day before their training would continue. Everything seemed to be normal in Konoha but still as they walked down the streets Hinata still could not shake the thoughts of her family meeting Naruto.
What if they don't accept him…. what is it that Otoo-san needs to tell me…
The sun was out but it was still cold as they walked on focusing on the moment that they were in unaware of what calamities lay ahead of them.
Another Authors note: Still undecided what direction chapter 15 will take although there is a rough outline for that chapter so it shouldn't take as long to write as this one has. I started a forum here on fanfiction and i think that's about all i really have to say. Sorry again for taking so long. I think I will leave the chapter preview either on the forum here or on my website. I hope the chapter was enjoyable and thanks again for the support!