"The reason that you are here," said Yuuki, "Is the relationship that you have with the branch member Neji."
"The council called you here so that any questions they may have regarding you can be answered," said Hiashi.
Great. Okay metaphorical pariah to them now being turned into a...hell I don't want to think of that, I thought to myself.
"Understand that for the safety for the family you must be deemed worty," said Akira, "There aren't many cases that have been successful when two people came together and one was not part of the Clan."
"Over the course of two weeks, you will be asked questions regarding yourself. Also if anyone contests your relationship, they can openly speak out. You may not leave the premises nor can you bring any outsiders here," said Haruto, "If anyone of the rules are broken then you shall be forbidden to ever set foot here."
Crap, so I have more than one relationship on the line here, I thought biting my lip, "I understand. Though if they were to be part of the investigation of me and speak on my behalf or against me, can the present themselves?"
"If there is a need for that, then we will have them escorted here," said Kazuki, "We will not take every chance you have to defend yourself, but we can't allow you to persuade them. So if they are asked here, they will do so under guard and you must not have contact with them."
"There are heavy accusations against you. The most troubling ones of late will be dealt with first," said Hideaki, "Whispers of you being a spy and posioning the family have spread far."
"Explain?" I asked, "I mean could you clarify. I do not quite understand what you are saying."
"Typical," scoffed Haruto, "Once a-"
"We will get to that in just a moment Haruto," said Akira, "I am interested in what she has to say. There are rumors that since you are not of Konoha, that you were sent to spy. Tsunade has already given reports of you doing exceptionally well in the field during infiltration and information gathering. We are afraid that you may be selling the secrets of our clan to other people. Do not think we are accusing you of betraying Konoha, we just want to know your answer of why you are here mingling with our family. There is also rumors that your ties with Hiashi and his daughters has given you ample room to disrupt the family traditions."
Don't yell, no matter how stupid the accusations. Remember they are dead serious when protecting the family. You should know that from history. I thought before I took a deep breath in.
"I do not gain anything by giving away secrets of Konoha. Your family is part of the main thing I wish to protect. If I betray your family by telling secrets which I have no knowledge of to begin with, then I betray Konoha. That will never happen and has not ever happened. As for breaking of traditions, if you are refering to Neji learning more of your family's techniques, I was informed that he learned a lot of them on his own. If he is given aid to perfect them, then the blame is not there to be placed on anyone. I am sure with time he could learn anything on his own," I said.
"Lies!" hissed Haruto, "No one has learned any of our techniques."
"I beg to differ, there is one ninja that I know still lives that has obtained an eye from your family. He is from Kirigakure, his name is Ao," I said, "This was during the Fourth Shinobi war."
"How do you know that?" asked Kazuki.
"I read," I half lied. There was some mention of it in history scrolls but that particular knowlage was already in my memories, as were a lot of other things I promised never to tell anyone, "One history book said that a member of your clan was defeated in combat by a hunter-nin. If given the chance, wouldn't another member of a village try and steal that knowledge? Though sometimes, as history states, not all threats are from other villages."
"So you admit to being a threat," said Haruto.
"Not at all, I am just reminding you what befell the Uchiha Clan a few years back. Not that you are a target for such an event," I said trying my best.
"So you are a spy," said Haruto.
"No, I am not. I would never," I said keeping as much of my cool as I could, "You may ask your own family members that I have not once asked them anything about the Byakugan or any of the family's techniques. Well besides if I caught them practicing and was curious about the name. Other than that I have never asked anyone farther about it. So how could I be a good spy if I am not trying to learn anything about your family. Your family members, I like to know what their hobbies are, and other friendly conversation. That is as far as my knowledge goes."
"We have heard your side, and will be watching you," said Kazuki, "That is why you are requested to stay here. Do not worry, we shall make sure you are taken care of."
"Reassuring," I mumbled under my breath.
"The next order of questions are you relationship with Neji," said Hiashi, "It would seem that while watching you, someone saw you frequent the houses of Rock Lee, Kiba Inuzuka, and the one called Sai. It would seem that a rumor of you being less than honest in your intentions with them have arose. Please reassure them that you intentions are innocent."
"Oh," I said thinking did he just say they think I am a hoe? Well Hiashi DID call me that when he found out about me and Neji...okay just take it one step at a time. "My relationship with Sai is just a mutual friendly relationship based on the fact both me and him are interested in art. I stopped by his house yesterday to see if he had gotten my invisible ink that I have made. Kiba and I are friends and I see him a lot when I hang out with Hinata, they are team mates together. If you would like to understand how friendly we are towards one another, it is a friendly rivalry. The worst that would happen is we beat one another up. As for Lee, his is Neji's team mate and I was being helped by him when my accident happened. He helped me with training during physical therapy and our understanding with one another is that we both want to be great shinobi. You can ask all three of them yourself that I have not once tried to be romantically involved with them in any way."
"Kori," said Yuuki, "I apologize for the sensitive nature of this question, but are you pure?"
"Pure?" I asked, "Pure of heart...pure of...oh. I - I really...Oh my god do I have to answer?"
"Her nervousness shows that she is," started Haruto.
"N-..Well, that is a very personal question you just asked. I can't be blamed if I didn't what four old men to know whether I am still a virgin or not!" I said blushing very heavily and looking away.
"There is always the test," said Hiashi, "That way we can find out and keep Kori's pride intact. It is obvious she is not comfortable with the questions."
"It doesn't matter if she is comfortable or not, this needs to be answered," said Hideaki.
Yuuki cleared her throat, "A woman should not be answering those questions to any man but her husband. If she is uncomfortable with the question, I can personally have the test done. If she passes then there will be no doubt that the accusations against her are false, regarding her involvement with other shinobi."
"How do we know she can't forge the information? She knows branch members that would lie for her," said Haruto.
"That is why I will personally see to it. I doubt she would be comfortable with me in the room, there is no way she will want you four near that room while she is tested," said Yuuki.
"We can always read her mind," suggested Kazuki.
"Violating her mind is as bad as violating her body," said Yuuki.
"I would prefer the test," I said, in defeat, "I don't want anyone in my mind."
"Why, you can go into others minds," said Hideaki, "We have heard that you can do wondrous things. Knowing what happens to people by being near them, using paints molded to your will, and reading minds."
"I can't read minds like that, nor can I predict anything. I don't go into peoples minds for fun or any games. If it is necessary and no way to avoid it, just like the interrogation group of Konoha. I only do it to find information that is needed. I don't try and know things about people. I would much rather ask them. It is wrong to go into minds like that."
"Can you control people?" asked Akira.
"No, unlike Ino and her family, I can't control anyone, nor can I influence them. I see memories, yes, but nothing more. It is like reading a scroll really. I can get kicked out and it is very hard for me to get into thier minds," I said, "Look if you want to bind me and keep me from using that while I am here, then you can. I am currently not using anything right now."
"I say we do as she asked," suggested Haruto.
"No," said Kazuki before the fighting happened.
I was almost put on the list for being branded but since I had no formal ties with the family, I escaped that fate, but that is what lead to the elders proposing our marriage. Then I had to go through all sorts of stupid tests, and one that I thanked Kami for everyday that the midwife who tested my 'purity' knew me well and was told of the current predicament. Though she didn't lie when she examined 'me', though if anyone would have looked very close they would have seen it was really Hinata in contacts. Though I went through with it just to reassure Hinata and Yuuki, that I wasn't taking advantage of the situation. God bless that girl. She and I became very close since Neji and I started dating. Plus, it did help that no men were allowed near the examination room, which most of the elders consisted of. Lady Yuuki, was the only one who was allowed back with 'me', other than the midwife of course. She and I had an understanding, though she did not approve of her nephew teaching Neji the Huyga techniques, she understood that if the rift didn't heal, a civil war would be certain. She also asked me personal questions while I was there. Though the experience itself wasn't bad, it made me feel very akward and I wasn't able to look at any of the Hyuga members in the face after.
After that exam was over, Yuuki had a special circlet made that could be taken off by the council and Hiashi if needed that bound my chakra in me. I was really worried that I may be attacked while staying but there was not helping it. If I wanted to prove myself I had to bend to thier will for now. The next few days, they informed me, was my relationships with people from Konoha would be questioned, the reason behind the Haruko Incident, and if anyone didnt approve then I would have to defend myself. Kiba was the first one to make it there and I was ushered out of the room and escorted to another part of the building while he was being questioned. Other than seeing Kiba, I didn't know who all was there.
After hours, they came back and retrieved me and took away all my stuff and gave me an outfit to wear. I changed into the black and white robes, I felt like I was out of place. I had to take my hair down and wear it loose, but they allowed me to keep my forehead protector, which I tied around my neck so that the metal was facing behind me. After changing I was escorted back into the council chambers and saw that Kiba, Haruko, and Sai were still in the room. I tried not to look at them directly and forced myself to look down.
"It would seem that the rumors were just rumors," said Kazuki, "After the test and speaking with your fellow shinobi, it would seem that falsehood was spread to try and place you in a false position."
"If I may speak," I said looking up at them.
"You may," said Yuuki.
"Why is Haruko here?" I asked.
"My daughter is here to confirm any suspicion that is against you," said Haruto.
"Father," spoke Haruko.
"I want to know why you had her banished," said Akira.
"Well it was far better than having her put to death or put in jail. Isn't family matters up to you?" I asked.
"Yes," said Yuuki, "We aren't here to discuss that Haruto."
"Why not, isn't it her fault that my daughter is like this?" he asked.
"No," I spoke up, "Maybe why she isn't living with you anymore but she was always like she was."
"Was?" asked Akira.
"Council Members, Kori is right. I had some issues that I tried to bury and they surfaced a few months ago. If I had kept going down the path I did, I would have destroyed everything that was expected of me, and probably caused the family much grief. Though I was banished from the family, Kori helped me," said Haruko, "Tsunade had me talk to people about myself and I was very angry and upset with my life. If she did not interfere with my plans that night, I might have done something very wrong. Though I still think she is an urchin, she would not endanger the family."
"So she has gotten to you," said Haruto.
"No, she just made me realize my mistakes father. She is too much of a bleeding heart to do anything bad for or to people. She did spare my life," said Haruko, "If she wanted to harm the family, she could have told a lie to Hokage-sama and had the family investigated, or she could have made you watch me die. Though she went out of her way to find middle ground for my sentence. Though living next to her is a pain, it would seem her life is rather colorful and I can hear the arguments in my house."
"They argue?" asked Kazuki.
"Sometimes, it is mostly quiet, and they are good neighbors. Kori has spoken with me a couple of times since I have been taking therapy. She even went out of her way on my birthday to give me a present," said Haruko, "She is so nice it is sickening sometimes, but that is the way she is."
"Do you two have anything to say?" asked Kazuki.
"Well, I have had her and her sister over to help me with the new pups," said Kiba, "I don't know what it is, but those two can calm the most unruly pup down. We do fight and could be seen as hating one another, but my sister would kill me if I didn't get along with Kori. She has helped Hana a lot, especially when she, my mother, I, or Ashi are out on missions. When we had our family gathering, they helped watch over the kids and pups and helped them pick out partners. As annoying as she is, and I still haven't forgiven her for giving Akimaru fleas, she is a good friend. When I can't talk to anyone, she goes out of her way to make me talk. Sometimes with her fists if I am being unusually stubborn."
"How was I supposed to know those bushes were eaten up with fleas," I defended myself from Kiba.
"So she meddles in other Clan affairs?" asked Hideaki.
"No, it is not like that. They were asked to help and did so when they were busy. They found time between training to help us if we needed it," said Kiba.
"I see," said Akira.
"I have not known Kori long enough for me to be here," said Sai, "She has ran into me a few times and we pass by one another but other than that, there isn't much to tell."
"As soon as Gai's team returns we shall speak with Rock Lee," said Kazuki.
"I would like to ask why am I in these clothes?" I asked, "I know I could be given worse, but what is the reason?"
"The council would like you to interact with the Clan during your stay. To test your loyalty, you are to be treated as a branch member during your stay," said Hideaki.
"Alright," I said trying not to put any sarcasm in there.
"What about her not being part of Konoha or having a clan?" asked Haruto.
"That isn't of concern," said Hiashi, "Tsunade has already given reports to you about that, and there isn't anything that we do not know about them, as far as the information goes. She may not be from Konoha, but she has proven herself more than able to be a shinobi from us. She already has the Will of Fire, and there are many families that do not have clans, and others who have migrated here from other villiages."
"If you are questioning everyone, shouldn't Hinata be here?" I asked.
"We have already spoken with Lady Hinata and her sister Lady Hanabi. Both seem fond of you, and now I see why. You are very interesting and it would seem that your will makes you most unusual," said Yuuki.
"Unusual?" I asked.
"You seem to bring balance back into people's lives, that is a very good thing you have," said Yuuki.
"Um, Council, I have been asked a lot of things. Mostly about the family as a whole, and I understand you want to protect the family. I must ask why?" I said.
"We will inform you later, as of now you three," said Hideaki, "Shall be escorted home."
Kiba, Haruko, and Sai were shown out. After they left Hidaki told the council that they would continue questioning me later. Akira was the first to approch me and he actually smiled at me and shook my hand.
"Oh aren't you lovely," he said, "Now I see why Neji has a fondness for you."
"Creepy and thanks, I guess," I said trying to smile.
"Oh if only you could join the main family," he sighed, "Maybe you could liven up the place. Though I love them, my family is very much a stick in the mud."
I giggled, "Well just because I am not part of the main family doesn't mean I can't make your life better."
"Well," he said, "You are going to be looked at as a branch member. The life isn't always a good thing. You may be asked to do somethings you wouldn't normally."
"I swear if I have to give an old person a bath I am going to scream," I frowned.
"Well no, but you may want to keep that wildfire streak of yours that I have heard about locked up. There are a lot of the family that doesn't like strong willed servants," he said, "And please do not let my family scare you away. I would like to talk with you more often."
"Akira," said Hideaki, "I would like to talk with her."
Akira bid me good-bye and I was escorted outside to the gardens. Hideaki asked me to sit down when we were to the gardens.
"You willl be shown around the grounds by Hiraku, who you are familiar with, and then you will serve the main family house during your stay. My son and granddaughters will not be over you, since they may have trouble ordering you around. For one day each, you must serve one of the council members to the best of your ability. The tasks will range anywhere from fetching an object to doing minor things around the house. You wil not have to worry about their schedules, since their regular servants will take care of them," he said.
"Um, besides calling me out here to explain things. Is there something you need to ask me?" I inquired.
"No. Not really, I don't dislike you but I will not make things easy for you. I will make sure that you have reign over your emotions," he said closing his eyes, "Tonight you will be a guest, tomorrow is when you start. Haruto requested that you serve him first, the rest will come and get you during your stay," he finished, "You may want to get some rest."
"I will take that as a good luck," I said, "Thank you."
I was woken up and a ungodly hour by Hiraku and shown around. I was then instructed on how to wake up Haruto, though I really didn't want to. I was informed he hated mornings but he disposed being late for anything. My day with him consisted of getting him clothes, food, running around the compound delivering things and escorting people to him. It wasn't that bad, though he did strike out at me when I did something wrong, like my posture was slouched, I spilled anything, or I was late. I could roll with the punches but some of the tasks he asked of me, I literally chewed my lip to keep from speaking out. I saw branch members be punished and I couldn't do anything about it, which killed me. The next day I was sent to Kazuki, who was very mild mannered and I spent most of the time giving him tea and being asked questions and opinions about things. Though I was unsure how to respond. I knew from certain things in my life servants really weren't supposed to have opinions.
"I don't understand," I said, "Aren't I being treated like a branch member and through association, a servant?"
"Well yes," he said, "However, I want to know more about you. Haruto seemed a bit displeased about you yesterday but it could be that he holds a grudge. I want to know what I am dealing with."
"And how does picking out your kimono for dinner, or asking which color I prefer tell you anything?" I asked.
"Well colors like red and yellow are considered aggressive and makes people happy but people can lose thier emotions in a yellow room. Blues and greens are calming and makes work easier. If one is stuck in a room that is blue it makes them more productive, if a green sheet of paper is placed over one that has been written over, then the person will read faster and better comprehend the words. Depending on which color you chose, tells me a lot about you.
You wear red, purple, and black in your field outfit. That means you are passionate, intense, warm, strong, and have comforting tendancies and are capable of loving anything greatly. The purple signifies wisdom and spirituality, though beautiful it doesn't represent itself in nature all too much and is unique but some would say artifical. Black is often used for evil but is also associated with power, death, formality, sexuality, sophistication, and negitive emotions are tied to it as well.
With that in mind I can tell that you are a good person, though you have your flaws, but many people do. Though you are not the most patient person, you will do what is right I believe. We Hyuga wear black because of the other meaning behind it, life and rebirth, along with being a strong and secretive color. White, represents innocence mostly, but can also come off as cold, bland, and sterile. Although I can see all aspects of the colors we choose, I rather prefer brown or pink," he said.
"I would have pegged you for a purple," I said, "Oh sorry I spoke out of line."
"No and yes. Be more concerned with your character than your reputation,because your character is who you really are, your reputation is mearly what others thing you are(1). If you feel the need to speak out, don't let silence burden you, but ask yourself if it will be true, if you can not see yourself believing in your words moments from now, then it would be best to keep silent. Sometimes the greatest moments in life are found by the most unlikeliest of people, those who have true courage. One can not discover oceans, secrets, hope, joy, or life if they are too afraid to step into the unknown," he said, "I like you for being courageous. You are not afraid of being yourself, which is quite more often than not the weakness of everyone in this Clan. They are too worried about the safety or the future that they forget their past and ignore the present."
"You are wise, and listen," I said smiling, "You also make my stay here a bit more pleasant. Some of yesterday's events left me bruises. So if and when I pass this thing, I would like to speak with you more."
"Do not let overconfidence shadow your intelligence," he said raising an eyebrow, "I can see that you are determined but do not let the stubbornness make you fall. Though if you do fall, get up and keep trying."
The rest of the day with him went smoothly and I took those words to heart. Akira was the next one to take me under him and his requests were most unusual. He was a bit eccentric and had the oddest taste buds. Red bean paste, wasabi, chocolate syrup, and mackerel was not on my list of edible things, but he loved it. He was kind and spontaneous though and reminded me of a big kid, but he took family very seriously. Akira took me by surprise when he asked me to play games with him, though I didn't think he was literal about it. By the time my day with him was over I was exhausted. Yuuki's day was just a blur, I was kept so busy that it really blended all together for me. Hiashi, I couldn't work under due to his father's orders, so I was under Hidaki.
He was a pain. He made sure that I had the most difficult tasks to do and always interrupted me throughout them, adding more and more things to do. His favorite thing to do was have me rearrange rooms and then tell me he wasn't happy with them and set them back up the way they were. It would have been fine if I had actual memory of how they did look. His second favorite thing to do was get me to wash the exterior floors of the Compound and get the kids to walk across it with muddy feet so I would do it all again. By lunch I wanted to kill someone. Hiraku took some pity on me and got me lunch and sat down with me.
"So how is your day?" he asked. I simply growled. He scooted away from me, "So that bad. Don't let Lord Hideaki get to you. He is just trying his best to protect the family."
"Any more royal pains in your family?" I asked.
"Here and there, but the rest of the week should be a breeze," he said before finishing his lunch, "I should get back, Lady Yuuki wanted me to deliver some messages to other members."
"Have fun," I said getting back to work.
By dinner time I was about ready to pass out, not being able to use my chakra to revitalize my physical stamina was proving a pain. I wasn't really allowed to have anything while serving so when chances appeared I downed two cups of black coffee. Normally I wouldn't dream of it but I was craving the caffeine. When Hideaki finally told me I was dismissed I bee lined to my chambers and passed out in full clothing. I didn't wake up until Hiraku literally had to kick me out of bed the next morning.
"What the hell?' I moaned rubbing the sleep out of my eyes.
"Neji is back from his missions and they want you now," he said.
"Can I at least bathe?" I asked.
"No, they mean now," he said picking me up.
"Great," I said yawning while grabbing my brush and beginning to get the knots out of my hair.
I managed to try and look decent while I was literally pushed into the Council Chambers. When I managed to stop, I was face to face with Lee. I blinked at him before it came to mind how close I was and I instantly jumped back.
"Ek!" I squeaked, "Don't do that."
"You almost fell into me, are you alright?" asked Lee.
"Fine, just sleepy. What time is it?" I asked.
"Four in the morning," said Neji behind me, "Why are you in servants clothes?"
"Your grandfather and the terror brigade are welcoming me," I answered, "For about a week I have been serving the Council, other than your uncle."
"This is not good," said Neji.
"Oh you should have been here when they accused me of cheating on you with the mutt, bushy brows, and the moving doll," I said.
"Huh?" asked Lee.
"Oh I have been spied on for a while now and they think me and you have a thing," I said frowing, looking around for the Council.
"That is ridiculous," said Lee, "Sakura is the only one for me."
"Yeah," I said rolling my eyes, "Like kung-fu men in tights jumping around are my thing."
Just about that time the concil members filed in and took their places in the room. After questioning both Lee and Neji they reached a decision, well part of one anyway.
"We have come to the conclusion that the accusations against the relationship of Kori and Neji are false. Now we will see who has any issues with the relationship," said Hideaki.
I leaned closer to Neji and whispered, "Why does it feel like they are trying to marry us?"
"I warned you," he whispered back.
"Yeah after everything," I snapped back softly.
There were a couple of people that I didn't recognize, some were part of the family while others were not. I sweetly smiled at them while whispering.
"Uh-oh. Fangirl alert, I may have to break something," I teased.
"It would be wise if you did not," he said.
The fan girls were quickly ushered out when they just whined, thank Kami. Though I was suprised when the last three who were left actually had a legitimate reason.
"There was a reason that romantic involvement outside the clan is forbidden," said one of them, "If I recall your late wife should be mentioned Lord Haruto."
Haruto narrowed his eyes, whatever the reason, these people hit something hard. I suspected that this was Haruko's reasoning behind her angst, but I didn't have much time to snoop around and get all the facts(2). I also didn't know traditions of the family either, well most of them. I did find out that Branch members had more a restriction on who they could marry, it did have to be approved by the Clan Head. Main family members usually were arranged but sometimes, such as in the past, some people married outside the clan. It wasn't common but sometime in the past twenty years that the clan was forbidden to have any romantic involvement with anyone outside the clan.
"You will not bring her up," said Haruto.
God did I wish I had my abilities right now. The damn circlet was more of a hinderence than a blessing right now. I really wanted to know but the nudge that came from Neji told me it wasn't pleasent.
"She was the reason why it is forbidden, is it not. She went insane and almost killed your daughter before she committed suicide, or was murdered by him," they continued.
"That is one of the things we have been debating on amending," said Yuuki.
"Council," I said, "It does me no good to sit here and be confused about this matter. If I am to better understand this situation, could you clarify?"
"Haruko's mother married into the family thirty eight years ago. She was once kind and gentle but after she became pregnant she changed. The longer she stayed in the family, the worse her mental state became, eventually she lashed out at her own daughter. After Haruko was five, her mother tried to run off but was brought back due to her delicate state, soon after she was murdered by her personal servant," said Hideaki.
I smell a few rats and a big fat lie, I thought. "I see," I said, "Well if you are worried about my mental health, it is sound."
"Some would say outsiders aren't welcome and the family has a way of weeding out those unwanted," smiled the second Hyuga member.
"I will keep that in mind," I said, almost backing away from that near murderous grin he had planted on his face.
"That was the primary reason you were brought here Kori," said Hiashi, "It was to see if your mental health would deteriorate while you stayed. Since we have no proof of that, we can't say that you are."
"Well have me checked on after two weeks," I said, hell I could bear it, "If I am not crazy then there shouldn't be a problem."
"You seem to be adjusting to the life we gave you," said Haruto, "but I am still not convinced."
You GAVE me? What the hell, don't say anything...just keep your mouth shut I thought while biting my lip, which by now probably was swollen due to my 'keeping mouth shut' policy.
"I think there isn't anything to worry about," said Akira, "I actually am quite fond of her."
"I belive she is worthy," said Yuuki.
"I am still say she is a liability," said Hideaki.
"Two and two," said Kazuki, "Since we can't take into account Hiashi's word due to his personal association he has with Kori."
Okay that sounded SO wrong...
"I belive she is capable of completing the task we gave her, but there are a few more days of time left for anything to happen. You will know my answer then," said Kazuki.
"Neji," said Akira.
"Yes Lord Akira?" said Neji.
"You will be guarding Hinata for the Festival, I will entrust you will have Kori shadow you then? She should learn how to protect the family, she shall be in charge of Hanabi's safety," he said, "During that time your circlet will be removed so you can guard her well."
Oh god did I want to jump for joy at that time. I was able to spend some time with Neji. I had to dig my fingernails into my palm to keep from reacting too much. I simply bowed and accepted the apparent heavy burden, but with Hanabi not being able to see me much, she might stick to me like glue for the two day gathering. I could tell that Neji was hopeful as I felt the air around him relax. All I had to do was wait six days until the ceremony, and that would probably consist of 'guard training'.
After they announced that I would be on guard duty, during ridiculous hours I might add, I was shown to my room so I could get ready. After bathing and changing clothes, I was in the middle of brushing my hair when there was a knock at my door.
"Um, come in?" I said wondering when the Hyuga family learned to knock.
Neji stepped through the door way and stopped. He was still tense and looked like whatever mission he was on took its toll on him. I didn't want him to stay long, though I seriously wanted to hug and cuddle him right now. He slowly made his way over to me and touched the circlet they gave me to wear during my stay.
"Oh, works the same way as the curse seal if you are wondering, also seals my chakra. I have been normal for days," I said.
"Did they use it?" he asked.
"Haruto did a few times. At first it was to get me to streighten out then when I didn't fall to my knees he opened it full force. Wasn't too bad, I had a slight nosebleed after that," I said, "Don't worry, I have suffered a lot more than a migraine."
"I see," he said looking down.
"Before you yell, it was my choice to put this on. They didn't force me. I know it is stupid and some of the members do it for sport sometimes, especially the younger ones but it is okay. I am fine and a little pain never hurt anyone...okay so it hurts, it just reminds me why I am here," I said, "Hell couldn't keep me from you."
"Why are you this stubborn?" he asked grabbing my wrists.
"Because it is one of my many good qualities," I smiled while he frowned, "Okay so what. Want me to tell you that this is overwhelming? That I can't handle it? Hell no, those people don't scare me."
"I don't know whether to admire your bravery or chastise your stupidity," he sighed releasing me.
"Both?" I said, "So, in the extreme case I want to tackle you, please make sure when you beat me away, with a stick, that you don't leave too many bruises."
"Why would you tackle me?" he asked.
"Oh frustration mostly, and the family is amending certain things about the rules so I can't openly be affectionate. I am going to seriously go into cuddle withdraws," I pouted.
"We don't cuddle," he reminded me.
"Oh no we do, lots in my mind. I just wish we had more time to in the physical realm and not in just my crazy imagination realm," I said looking up at him, "Well at least I am not so addicted to you that I need you to sleep next to me...yet."
"Addicted to me?" he asked.
"Oh honey, you are like...hm...a strawberry cheesecake with whipped cream with a sign that says 'Eat Me' on the side," I teased.
He laughed, "Good thing you don't have a fork."
"I don't need one," I smiled.
"On that note I am leaving. Your guard shift is nearly here and you aren't at your post. That and I will not be responsible for detaining you, nor will you be given the change to shread my clothes," he said pushing me out the door.
"Yo, hairbrush!" I said walking down the hall.
A hairbrush was flung at my head and I caught it before it could do any damage. Running to where I was supposed to be, I accidentally caught my hair in the brush. I was pretty sure that I would have to cut it out by now, but I managed to thankfully get it out with out ripping most my hair out during the process. Not too soon later I was standing before I was in front of Ko. He told me all the duties that I would be doing and then he showed me where I would be patrolling for the night. I had a feeling in the back of my head that I might have trouble during the night. I was just going to be guarding the gate and really didn't need to have my chakra. Lucky me. Well no one would know other than the council that the nifty circlet I was wearing was more than just decoration, hopefully I could be intimidating.
Thankfully for me there wasn't any trouble I was given, if someone wanted me to screw up, they were not showing themselves now. Hopefully I could get through the the rest of the week without any screw ups. Kami thankfully was in my favor, or I was in his...either way I didn't care. Guard duty went well, though I had to keep myself up for a few days because of the hectic schedule. When the festival rolled around Hanabi was more than thrilled to have me guarding her.
"Kori!" she said before trying to tackle me.
I side stepped out of the way and caught her under my arm, "Heya, half-pint. So what terror can we cause for the evening?"
Hiashi cleared his throat behind me, "There will be none of that. Both of you behave."
"Yes daddy," said Hanabi pouting.
"Yes, sir," I said mimicking Hanabi's expression.
"Oh daddy wants you to wear this," she said holding up a kimono.
"Beats the bath robe," I said taking it before heading off to change.
After changing Akira stopped me in the doorway and took off my circlet. Then he proceeded to replace it with some unusual headpiece. I just looked at him and couldn't say much as he dragged me behind him and took me into the grounds for the festival. The festival was nice and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves. I guess it was a way that the branch and main family could get together without much trouble. Though there were a few segregated groups but most of them were mingling. I didn't have much time to look around or chat because he kept grabbing me and pulling me behind him, thankfully Hanabi was on my heels. After two hours of him dragging me about, I began to get tired of being hauled around.
"Lord Akira," I said.
"Just Akira, lord makes me feel so old," he smiled,
"Akira, um, is there a specific reason I am being dragged everywhere? I kinda have something else to do...like guard your great grand niece," I told him trying to stop.
"I suppose," he said looking sad, "You are just so fun!"
"Yeah, I guess," I said rubbing the back of my head. I then turned to Hanabi, "So is there anywhere you want to go?"
"Great uncle Akira took me to most places. He and I were betting on how long you would put up with him, I won," she grinned.
"Oh you naughty person," I smiled, "Props to you."
"It isn't wise to encourage that behavior," said Akira.
"Well if it is restricted to me, it can help vent out negitive emotions," I told him, "Just think of Naruto. Didn't he vandalize the Hokage statues?"
"Yes," said Akira.
"He was acting out to get noticed and attention," I told him, "Though he has grown up a bit. I suppose."
"How would you know?" asked Hanabi.
"Comes with getting older, I guess. Well he is a shinobi with the Fourth Hokage's sensei. I am sure Jiraya has made him mature more," I told her before we walked off.
It wasn't too much longer after that, Hanabi wanted to go back inside. Apparently running around everywhere had wore her out. After we got back home I escorted her to her room before going back to mine and got ready and went to bed. The next day was slightly uneventful. Hanabi just went on with her training like usual and when the festival opened back up she just went to talk to her friends. I was slightly more than bored. Escorting a bunch of kids around wasn't what I had in mind. Though Hanabi kept me busy by 'ordering' me to win her prizes and junk from the festival. When she was finished hanging out, we began to make our way back to the Compound.
It was pretty late and I had to get up early in the morning, so I decided to turn in early. So after getting Hanabi home I began to make my way to the branch house to go to sleep. However, before I made it there I was attacked by someone. A bit cliche for me to have them in a mask but beggars can't be choosers. I slightly wondered why and how they snuck in the Compound, but intruders were intruders. After I dodged the kunai that was thrown at me by back flipping out of the way.
"Come with me," they said.
Like hell, I thought as I took my offensive position. I didn't have my pigments on me but I was still proficient with med-justsu and hand to hand combat. Though I wasn't as skilled as Sakura, I could still be able to overload his systems with the Mystical Palm Technique or use the Chakra Scalpel. As they closed the distance between us, I watched them carefully. They threw a punch aimed to knock me out, but I weaved to the left and brought my right arm up to sweep thier's out of the way. Stepping in, I extended my left arm out and pretended I was going to punch. They began to lean back as their hand came to block mine. Grabbing it, I pulled them forward, the unexpected shift throwing them off balance. Hopping up, I brought up my right knee and felt thier abdomen connect. I followed it up with an elbow strike to the back of thier head, aiming to knock them out. When that was taken care of I heard a gasp of terror.
"Oh my god you killed him!" said a young Hyuga member.
"Excuse me?" I said, looking around finding a girl no older than six appear from behind a door.
"Oh my god, big brother!" she said before looking teary eyed at me.
"Okay wait," I said before undoing the mask, there laying unconscious was a ten year old boy, "Shit. Where is his room?"
"Don't touch him!" she said.
"Hold on there girl scout! He is sleeping it off. He is very much alive. Though why did he attack me?" I asked.
"We were playing tag," she said, "If you get caught, you are it."
"Tag, that involved transformation jutsu and attempted kidnapping?" I raised an eyebrow.
"Yeah," she said.
"That is it, Neji's entire family is deranged, I just know it," I said throwing my hands up in the air, "So why are you two out at this hour?"
"I was hungry and big brother said he would help me get something to eat. Then we started playing," she said.
I picked up the unconscious boy and began to carry him, "Where is your room?"
She showed me her room and I laid him on the bed. After putting her to sleep I more or less jogged to my room, hoping not to run into anyone on the way. Neji wasn't in bed yet, but I wanted to go ahead and get some shut eye. I only had one more day to deal with this situation and I wanted to get it over with as soon as possible. When morning rolled around, I was summoned yet again to the council chambers and then escorted to a side room to get my brain checked. When the doctor was sure, after many tries, that I was clearly not insane...well not really insane, I was shown back into the chambers. With the report given to them they talked amongst themselves. Finally Kazuki had made up his mind.
"Kori," he said, "It would seem that there isn't any reason for you to be banished or forbidden from this place. It would seem that some of our laws are flawed and need to be amended. As of this moment we approve of your relationship and you may leave when you are ready."
"Okay, thanks!" I said openly jumping up and down, cheering myself, "So, does this mean I can change out of this and into my real clothes?"
"Your bag should already be in your room," said Hiashi.
"Thanks!" I said, "Now if you will excuse me, I think a bit of a celebration is in order."
Hiashi looked slightly worried for a second.
"Oh don't worry, this involves me going home, taking a LONG bath, and then possibly asking your nephew on a date," I smiled.
"For a second I thought you were going to do something normal for yourself," said Hiashi.
"No, painting the lawn purple and orange will wait until later," I said giggling, "Though maybe I should try that on a smaller canvas before working the full yard."
"You can change the colors of things?" asked Akira.
"Yeah," I said slowly, "Color is my thing."
"Are the effects permanent?" he asked.
"No, it mostly lasts a day or two, unless I prepare the formula to seperate the pigment from my chakra," I said.
"I may have another use for you," he said smiling,"but it would seem you want a bit of rest from the Huga Clan."
"Well not all of them, but I haven't seen my sis in two weeks. She is no doubt worried about me," I said before saying goodbye to them and getting my stuff before heading home, with Neji being dragged behind me of course.
1. A quote by John Wooden.
2. Mentioned in Looking for Justice, it was a mistake when I left the words 'she was originally part of the Hyuga Clan' it SHOULD have been wasn't instead. I have corrected the mistake so sorry if you got confused. I apologize. On another note, the Hyuga Clan I would think would consist of a hundred or more people, guessing small here. I don't think they are inbred or anything, since there are a LOT of past generations of marriage outside the clan, and such. I would think as they filtered down the generations it would be more common to marry within the clan (most would have the last name but the genetics would be so far spread out it would be like someone marrying another person that they both shared a twenty times great ancestor...) so that the Byakugan would be more likely to show itself and to protect the family. I think they have like twenty or thirty different 'blood lines' to work with and most would be related by marriage..hopefully it makes sense to you.
Time Left: 8 months until Naruto returns.
Alpenwolf: It is and it isn't. The Hyuga Clan would no doubt be very cautious about anyone trying to associate with them since the Uchiha Clan Massacre. The others (cannon characters) would probably be safe because they would know them from the past and have been in Konoha since the beginning, Kori has not. I mean it isn't anything too major but I kinda wanted to show the effects of *SPOILER* Danzo's meddling on other members of Konoha. As for the dating thing...it doesn't matter much outside the universe that is being created within the story. Yeah, I suppose I set it up kinda for me to be flamed in the future for the age thing, but I wanted Yuki to be older, and I can't help how old Shikamaru is in the Cannon Universe, since this Universe is taken from the Cannon. I am unsure if I am willing to change things, I will try to keep it interesting and if I feel that the Cannon wouldn't fit the story, then I may change some future events...Right now it is 50/50.
Sukaretto Miyuki: To answer your question, I made them all up except for Hideaki, though his name is made up. He is the only elder that we know of in the Naruto universe. Though going by some traditions, and a lot of anime I have seen, clans like this would have a council with the older members of the family. Hmm, I keep my hair short ususally, right now my hair would look like Sebastian Michleals from Kuroshitjini (black butler) only not black, yet. (I plan on cosplaying as Sebastian and Sai this year at Dragon Con, so I am just going to trim it up and dye it before hand) Don't worry about reading my other stories, I don't mind. I wrote them because I felt like it, nothing more, nothing less. Since you don't know much about the universe, then you would be confused if you were 'thrown in', though Dragon Age is a game...and graphic novel series now. As for the pranks, yeah. I know it was cruel but Kori is really nice deep down and she wouldn't do anything that bad to people, as for Ino. I don't know if she likes green or not, but I went with it. Green is the easiest color that blond can go to, especially if it isn't natural. Chlorine can turn blonde hair green for a day or two if you aren't careful.
NejiTen: Really? I hate to tell you this but that will not happen. It specifically says NejixOC and ShikamaruxOC in the description. I am sorry to disappoint and though I enjoy that you read my story, I don't think you will read much more of it. Just please, after finding out about this do not flame or troll. I did not write this story to be dealt with like that. If you are going to target something for a rage, after you read this, target me specifically. I do not want my Baby (my story) to be abused in such a manner. I am sure that you will find your NejixTenTen stories under the actual pairings of them, I hope you the best in finding your dream stories.
River: Alrighty readers. Here is a new chappy, and not too soon after the other one was put up. So more or less kinda a double chapter thing. I just wanted to get this thing out of the way. So we know more about Haruko and look it seems like she is nicer...since therapy. So yeah. Not much to say other than that.