The Mask

by E.Knuxs

"Logic is not ruled by love, and by extension, love cannot be explained through logic" (chpt. 18) ... When left alone Hyūga Hinata finds a new strength within herself. Pushing to her very limits she rises to the top. However, now that she's there, she catches the eye of many dangerously powerful shinobi. (rewriting - see Entangled)

25. Hyūga

Hi :D So so so sorry for the late update! Super busy taking on more hours at work and got another job babysitting and tutoring. Oh boy, saving for Uni is annoying. I think I'll just hide and live in a cardboard box for the rest of my life! Sounds like a plan!

Okay :P

Thank you for waiting and thank you so so so much to:

the 8 Anon. Guests that reviewed :D, Itahina4eva (x2 — you're awesome :P more fluff next chapt.), forgetmenotlovely (thxs :D I'm glad you liked how I got them to share, I thought it was cute too and suited them!), Ara (you're really sweet!), cathyscloud9 (and thank you for reviewing :P), LM22102 (I'll have to use it again then :D Glad you liked it!), Lys (you're too nice, thank you :D), Mona133 (thank you, I hope you like how it turns out!), Hina-Himechan (if I am being honest your review was one of the nicest complements I have ever gotten :) Thank you so much for taking the time to review and just read, it means so much to me), WarFlower (thank you :D :D I hope I won't disappoint!), beanche (I see you can feel my foreshadowing… more foreshadowing to come at the end of the chapt :P), Chise (I'm glad you liked it, thanks for the review!), joannamedina8814 (thanks for the review, so far ItaHina is in the lead for the pole… that's all I'll say on that :P),.

And thank you to everyone who has favourited, followed and just read the story! It means so much! I will try to get back to by regular updates, but life is life… you know how it is :P

Thanks for 400+ reviews!

Chapter 25

Neji stopped in front of a shoji door, the wood a deep chestnut brown and the screen a pale cream. Neji knocked lightly on the wood signalling their arrival.

Hinata actually smiled.

'Hiashi-sama has asked me to retrieve you. He would like to speak with you before our meeting.'

Hinata could clearly sense three bodies within the room. He didn't technically lie… I have not missed the Hyūga and their manipulations. There was no need for falsities. I would have come regardless.

Her biological father was in the room, accompanied by the Hyūga Elders - her biological grandparents.

Fun.

This was going to be fun.

Hinata decided to continue to let her emotions to run free like the chakra pulsing through her body. She was supposed to be on vacation, right?

"Enter," Hiashi's deep voice ordered.

Neji stepped through the doorway first. He immediately got down onto his knees, bowing forwards until his head was pressed against the floor. He remained in this position as he spoke, "I have brought Hinata-sama."

Hinata looked down at Neji's position. It brought up a familiar anger within her. It was utterly disgusting how the Main House treated the Branch House. Such blatant discrimination did not sit well with her. No one should be treated poorly based on something they could not control, such as which House they were born into.

Hinata forced a light hearted giggle, preventing any Hyūga from responding. "Thank you, Neji-san. I could have found my way on my own. You are too kind for assisting me."

Neji's position tensed, but he did not move.

The three Hyūga sitting stiffly on individual tatami mats, their feet tucked beneath them, stared intently at Hinata.

She turned her head to them. Her eyes beckoning them to continue with why they requested her presence.

While they silently contemplated Hinata's words, she took in their own appearances. They were dressed in the finest fabrics; old fashioned layered Kimono that spoke of their status and wealth. The colours were all a shade of the neutral brown.

Hinata thought of what she was currently wearing. She was still in the same clothes from yesterday, her Akatsuki cloak somewhere within Kakashi's apartment. Dirt marred her knees and chest from when she was push into the ground by the overzealous ANBU. The stains were barely noticeable, but the Hyūga rarely let anything get passed their eyes. On the other hand, she was glad of her choice in apparel. Mainly the shirt. And mainly because of those two little Uchiha Crests that were painted on each of her sleeves. They also did not go unnoticed. Hinata revelled in the idea of how they would respond.

Of the three, Hiashi sat in the middle, his eyes contemplative. The male Elder - her biological grandfather: Hiroshi - was on his right, his eyes narrowed, however slightly. The female Elder - her biological grandmother: Hikari - was on the left, her eyes… amused?

Hiashi broke the silence. "You may leave, Neji."

Hinata gave a small bow as Neji stood, her smile still holding strong. "I will see you shortly."

Neji gave an bow that was slightly lower than her own before he made his leave.

Hinata watched until the screen closed and then calmly turned her attention back to the other occupants of the room. On her face rested a composed look of content, one of which she refused to let drop.

"Please take a seat," Hikari offered graciously. Her hand motioned towards a mat that was laid two metres in front of the three of them.

Hinata took the invitation and silently made her way over. She mirrored the position in which they sat, but her posture was much more fluid.

Hiashi, who had yet to remove his eyes off of Hinata, finally spoke to her. "From the entire Hyūga Clan, we would like to thank you for your assistance in safely returning our current Heiress."

Hinata gave a nod of acknowledgement. "There is no need for thanks. Regardless of position," or relationship to myself, "I would have acted in the same manner. It is my duty to protect all citizens of The Leaf."

Hiashi's eyes again took on their calculative gleam.

A part of Hinata wanted to tell them to hurry along with their true objective and skip the pleasantries - because they were truly not very pleasant. However, she quieted that thought and listened to her voice of reason.

"That is understandable," Hiashi responded. "We still owe you our thanks."

Hinata did not verbally reply. She just continued to smile serenely. To the three it would seem natural, but to those who had seen Hinata's real smile, this one would pale in comparison. It was too perfect; there was no jovial restraint, no twinkle in her eyes, no aura of happiness that always seemed contagious. This smile was just a perfectly practiced rise of the corners of her mouth.

"As our thanks," Hiashi began.

Hinata chuckled inwardly, Here we go…

"We would like to offer you recompense."

Hinata faked her interest. Making it seem as if they skilfully caught her rare show of unrestrained emotion instead of Hinata allowing them to see it.

"Due to your past with the Hyūga," Hiashi continued - Hinata truly had to hold in a laugh that time - "we had limited your access to your sister. We will eliminate that limit."

Hinata still did not respond. She stared forwards intently.

Hiashi readjusted his posture, he was expecting some sort of reply. But, when the minutes dragged on, with Hinata sitting unflinchingly, Hiashi had no choice but to carry on.

However, before he could do so, Hiroshi spoke up. His patience was waning due to - what he perceived as - Hinata's disrespectful attitude. "This will occur by you once again rejoining the Hyūga."

Hinata still sat unchanging.

Hiashi spared a quick side glance at his father. "It was always our intention to have you return to the Clan."

Finally, there was a change in Hinata. Her smile deepened with mirth. Such a twist of words. I'm sure they're speaking the truth: they would have forced me to rejoin once I became of age and it would be to marry me off. Their plan has undoubtedly changed - I would love to see them try their original… I definitely prefer dealing with high ranking nin than politicians; at least they stab people willing to play the game.

Hiroshi scowled before changing his expression back into one of neutrality. "This would be of equal benefit to both parties," was his response to Hinata's clear dismissal.

"I am sure," Hinata said with no telling inflections.

"This is the only way you will be able to develop a closer relationship with Hanabi," Hiroshi finalized.

Hinata let only a mere second pass before responding, "I disagree." Hinata's voice remained calm and unwavering. She no longer held a smile, but her face did not show any distress. "I do not know whether this attempt comes from arrogance or ignorance, and quite frankly it does not matter. There are many reasons why you are incorrect and many more why any and all attempts you make will fail. The reason that is most befitting for you is that I am the best teacher for Hanabi."

"Someone who has been taught in the ways of the Hyūga Techniques would be the best fit," Hiroshi retorted.

Hiashi had not attempted to intervene, his eyes were trained on Hinata.

Hinata thought over his statement while maintaining a strong eye contact. Tsunade-sensei and Kashi must have worked very hard to have Genma as Hanabi's Jōnin Leader. I have to thank them. Hanabi would not have made such a stark change if she was under watch by a Hyūga instead. "The Hyūga Techniques are outdated and limited."

That got a response from the normally controlled individual. Before Hiroshi could bark out a reply Hinata cut him off with words that felt oh so sweet.

"Control your emotions. If we do not speak unbiasedly we will not reach a solution."

Hiroshi unwillingly remained silent, allowing Hinata to explain.

"Hanabi's genin team will be assigned primarily tracking and recovery missions. They will not be a group that is sent out where confrontation is planned to arise. They will be expected to remain at a distance and gather intel. The Hyūga Techniques are close rage. They will only be of use when their mission does not go to plan and a battle ensues. Inuzuka Kenta will face the same problem, as his clan's techniques are close to mid rage. That is why Genma has wisely been working to improve them in their kunai throwing." Hinata's eyes switched between all three Hyūga. "I can take this training one step further: training Hanabi myself or requesting an ally for assistance.

"This is beneficial for you for obvious reasons. It is beneficial for me because I have undoubtedly made many enemies in the past years. I need to ensure Hanabi's safety. I also request that you increase the security of the compound. I do not want to see a repeat of what happened with the Akatsuki."

Hiashi was in a raw state of confusion as he watched Hinata speak. She had changed so much over the years. He had rarely seen her after she was disowned, and if so, it was merely in passing. Because of this he did not know how Hinata developed this strength and confidence that was now being displayed. He had seen it slightly during her original rise to ANBU - in the way she carried herself throughout the village. But, when she supposedly became injured, losing her opportunity to be a Leaf shinobi, he watched as she reverted back to someone weak and insignificant.

With Hinata finishing her explanation, Hiashi decided to take the reigns from his father. "Would you not be the best protection for Hanabi? If you were to stay within the Hyūga gates you could guarantee her protection."

Hinata had to admit that was a clever turn around. "Yes, if an attack were to be made and I happened to be present. However, it would also increase the number of threats made, for it would make my relationship with Hanabi much too obvious. On top of which, after these three weeks are up, I will become increasingly busy. I will be present less often." Hinata's eyes went hard, "Let us drop the pretences. Do not use Hanabi to get to me. Such tactics insult my intelligence. I will not allow for Hanabi to be a part of your manipulations." Hinata's voice went a chilling cold. "Attempting to get to me through her will not end well for any involved."

"Is that a threat?" Hiashi asked calmly though his heartbeat had speed up against his will.

"Yes," Hinata confirmed, remaining true to her own request to talk honestly. "Now, what are your true intentions for this meeting?"

When the males remained silent, Hikari decided to speak. "It was as we said. We would like you to become a part of the Hyūga once again."

Hinata turned her attention to the elder female. "Yes, but what is it you would like to achieve through this merger?"

Regardless of the tension permeating from her right, Hikari continued. "The main reason: your joining will better our image of strength and power in the village. However, another-"

Both men shot a fierce glare as a warning towards Hikari.

Hikari eyed the two men before silencing herself at the obvious warning.

Hiashi cleared his throat, recalling Hinata's attention. "We did get off track in this meeting. I once again must apologize, Hinata-sama."

Hinata was unnoticeably taken aback by the use of honorific. That must have hurt his pride.

"It was not our intentions to pressure you nor to insult you," Hiashi clarified. "We would be honoured if you rejoined your rightful clan, though that was not why we called upon you. You are welcome within the Hyūga regardless of your decision. In light of this, we would like to invite you to a function the Hyūga are hosting. It will be celebration of thanks as well as a welcome." When Hinata didn't look certain Hiashi added, "The villagers have been cyclic on their opinion of you. Understandable as it is common to be uncertain of the unknown. This will also be of benefit for yourself because it will reaffirm your image as a member of the village."

Hinata thought over what Hiashi mentioned. It would be difficult for her to find a reason to decline. Besides that, Hiashi made a great point. She knew she could better her image without him or this event, but it wouldn't hurt to play along. "Thank you. It would be an honour."

Hiashi gave a stern nod. "Two weeks is when the gathering will be held. We will inform you as more information is made available."

Hinata gave her own nod and stood, not waiting to be formally dismissed. "Very well." She gave a small bow before straightening herself. "I must be going."

The three Hyūga joined her in standing.

"I will summon Neji," Hiashi informed.

"That is alright. I know where he is currently," Hinata requited.

"Very well, thank you for your time."

With those parting words Hinata turned on her heal and exited the large room that was beginning to feel stuffy.

Closing the shoji door behind herself, Hinata sighed internally. They should have known that I would plan for this. Every angle they could possibly take legally to force me back into the clan is covered. She smiled to herself. I wonder what their reaction will be when they find out… It may push them into using Hanabi… Based on what I've seen Hanabi is strong enough to hold her own until she's at least given the opportunity to inform Genma, who in turn could in form me. Hopefully it won't come to that though. I'll just have to stay steps ahead of them…

Hinata's feet swiftly took her to where she had left her sister and her genin team. Taking in the scene brought a real smile to Hinata's face.

Neji was sitting beside Hanabi, both in a similar meditative pose. The only difference lied in Neji's relaxed facial expression and Hanabi's scowling one.

The other's were still by the wall. Genma was standing horizontally attached to the towering structure, taunting Kenta from his perch to give him some informal motivation. Sora was still standing patiently, channeling her chakra. From what Hinata could sense, her level was almost perfect.

"Oneechan!"

Hanabi's holler caught Hinata's attention. Looking over she saw a mixture of an overly exuberant and frustrated Hanabi beside an irritated Neji. Neji was halfheartedly glaring out of the corner out of his eyes at his boisterous cousin.

Hinata let out a laugh at the scene.

Hanabi pouted, "What are you laughing at?"

Hinata continued her way over to the pair. "How is your training going?"

Letting out an exaggerated sigh, Hanabi responded, "It's boring. I can't get it! I think it's just because we learn differently. What worked for you won't necessarily work for me."

Hinata's grin widened at Hanabi's logic. "That is true, but you have only been attempting this method for an hour."

"The longest hour!"

Hinata laughed again. "Okay. Okay. Sit down in lotus."

Hanabi warily followed the order, plopping down on the ground with one foot on top each opposite thigh.

Hinata sat behind her on her knees and placed one hand in the middle of her sister's back. "We'll aim for only requiring a single hand-sign activation. Use Hitsuji and try channeling your chakra to your eyes."

"I tried that already and it didn't work," Hanabi whined.

"Do you not trust me?" Hinata retorted, forcing her voice to become more strict.

"No, it's that-"

"Then do as I say."

With the finality in Hinata's tone, Hanabi complied.

Hinata released her own tiny sigh when Hanabi finally began to work. She activated her own Byakugan from her position and observed Hanabi's chakra networks, specifically around her eyes. She absently noticed Neji doing the same, except on her. Hinata pushed her own chakra through their connection.

Hinata's strong chakra overwhelmed Hanabi's. Carefully, Hinata manoeuvred the waves of energy through specific pathways. Every narrow crevice was filled with either of the two chakras that filled the tiny girls body. Once that step was complete, Hinata increased the strength and changed the rhythm of the chakra at perfectly practiced intervals that had become second nature to her body. With the assistance, the webs of chakra on Hanabi's face became more and more apparent until there Byakugan was fully activated.

The young girl jumped up and gasped. "I did it!"

Hinata giggled and stood.

Neji stood as well and refrained from rolling his eyes. It was Hinata that 'did it' but I won't ruin the moment. His own minuscule smile played on his lips. It is nice to see them side by side once again. "That was impressive." His statement was cleverly directed to both individuals.

"I know right!" Hanabi awed, her Byakugan still active.

Neji smirked at her enthusiasm. "Would you mind assisting me as well, Hinata-sama?"

Hinata looked to Neji. "We should begin the meeting. However, come by my house tomorrow."

Neji remained stagnant before giving a nod. "Of course. Please follow me." He turned on his heals and headed in the opposite direction from where she had met with Hiashi and the Elders.

Before following, Hinata delicately placed a hand on the top of her sister's head.

The contact made Hanabi lose her concentration and her Byakugan deactivated.

"I will see you later, Hanabi-chan."

Hanabi grinned widely. "See ya, Hinata-onee."

Hinata ruffled the already messy hair before removing her hand and following Neji's path. As she left she made sure to give a quick wave to Genma, which he returned with a smirk.

Hinata hurried her pace in order to catch up with Neji.

The atmosphere changed around them as they became closer to their destination. The change was fluidic. This new area still maintained the formality and class that the Hyūga represented, but the abundance of expensive and telling decor slowly faded.

They were entering the Branch House.

Hinata took in her surrounding. She could sense various bodies in the rooms she was passing, robust chakras were hidden behind the thin screen doors. However, as they continued down the rounding hallway, the numbers dwindled.

The emptiness gave Hinata a gnawing feeling in the pit of her stomach. She could tell the feeling was reciprocated by Neji. His posture, normally stiff, was now tense in foreboding.

Hinata decided to extend her senses. It was something she rarely did when within her home village - when not training - in order to provide privacy for the civilians. It was even more rare to do it in such a large residential area. But, her instincts and curiosity won out.

"I'm sorry," Neji said gruffly while Hinata came across an irregularity in what could be constituted as a normal in such an area. "I will be right back."

Neji was gone in the next second, leaving Hinata in his dust. She blinked a few times as she analyzed the situation. Does he really expect me to wait here?

Hinata made a shadow clone of herself to stand in her place. She once again hid herself to those around her - to all of the senses possessed by humans - and took off after Neji. She left a slight gap between them, she wanted to see Neji's reaction to the scene.

Hinata was impressed by Neji's speed and agility. He manoeuvred his way through the halls with ease and made it to the commotion that had caught both of their attentions.

Hinata stayed behind the corner watching intently with her Byakugan and listening in on what was being said. Just around the edge was an open area that was still within the compound. Realizing she needed to account for the use of many Byakugan, Hinata placed herself under a henge - appearing as a stereotypical Hyūga and copying their chakra signatures to a T - and hid amongst the crowd.

Branch Members were plastering themselves along the walls of the compound, afraid to get involved, but refusing to leave.

Hinata and Neji had their eyes locked on the three individuals that were causing the commotion.

A young girl was tucked safely behind someone who any would assume to be her big sister. The eldest was in a low bow, not daring to make eye contact to the man she was speaking to. The youngest was nearly shaking in fear, tightly grasping onto the pant leg of her sister. Her eyes unable to leave the man's.

"-not mean that as a threat," the eldest pleaded. "She was training. It was an accident. I am deeply sorry. I should have been paying better attention."

Hinata scanned over the male Main House member. She found a barely noticeable scratch on his cheek. Hinata visibly rolled her eyes when she successfully determined the cause for this entire debacle.

The girl's begging words did not seem to hit a cord with the man. "You expect me to believe that." His voice could be considered menacing. To Hinata it sound like a child having a tantrum. She absently compared his tone to Obito's when he was impersonating Madara. She giggled quietly.

"This is a training ground it is not that difficult to believe."

Hinata snapped her attention back when she heard Neji's voice. It was calm and composed, but Hinata could hear the anger that lurked beneath it.

The Main House narrowed his eyes at Neji. "Know your place. I don't care if you're Hiashi-sama's pet."

Hinata blinked at the words.

Neji didn't take the bate and responded indifferently. "It is my place to protect those of the Hyūga, not just those of the Main Branch."

"Not if it means going against the Main Branch," the smug man retorted. He seemed to hold his head up even higher, looking down his nose at Neji. "If anything you all should be protecting me and against her," he was talking to the surrounding Branch members while referring to the petrified little girl. She could be no older than ten.

Neji nearly scowled at the man's words.

"Should I remind you all of your place." The man kept on speaking, unaware of Hinata's own growing anger.

She did not tolerate the hurting of children. Such innocent creatures should not be exposed to pain before the cruel world deemed it necessary. Of course she had come across many young prodigies in her years that she was forced to fight. This did not prove as a problem because she did not use age as a way of determining maturity. Amnesty based on a bias against age could have led to her death on many occasions. Some lose their childhood innocence when they are merely five years of age, others never seem to lose it. The little girl in front of her was still virginal to the harsh cruelties of the world; a few wayward clan members are insignificant in comparison.

Hinata knew what he was going to do. He was going to make Neji an example, someone who clearly represent a hidden strength and hope for these people. He would attempt to destroy this hope by showing them how powerless this saviour truly was.

Neji tensed when the man's hands moved to that terrible position that allowed any Main Branch member to activate the curse seal.

The moment the man's hand connected a grunt of pain escaped his parted lips. Unable to move his hands to even activate his Byakugan he shot his head to the direction the senbon was thrown from. The thin metal had pierced both of his hands. It carefully avoided the bone, only slicing through the skin and tissue.

"Did you throw that?!" He hatefully accused the shocked man that was standing directly beside Hinata.

"Wha- No. No. Of course not. Ah," the accused stuttered in fear.

"I see you deduction skills are as proficient as you skills in defence."

Everyone's head in the immediate area whipped to the woman who dared to speak out so callously.

The Main House member seemed even more taken aback that it was a woman that dared stand up to him. One that appeared to bare the Curse Seal as well.

Hinata smirked inwardly. Add sexist to the list of wonderful traits he posses… Our Hokage is female…

His momentary surprise was replace with fury.

Hinata tsk'ed. She made sure to step out from the people around her. "I am going to tell you two things that you did wrong," was how she began. "These two things you will never do again unless you are prepared to face the consequences."

The man was about to speak again but Hinata - still in her henge - interrupted his interruption.

"No, please let me finish," her sugary sweet voice did not match the aura she was exuding. "One: never hurt an innocent child. Unless you are incompetent it is obvious that this girl was training. This is the Branch Houses training ground, the only part of the story that doesn't make sense is why you are here."

"I-"

"I said not to talk," Hinata warned making the man gulp. "Two: never threaten one of my men." The dangerous aura left Hinata and she brought the pad of her thumb to her pursed lips in thought. She let out a giggle. "I guess there is only one point. I considered everyone in the village under my protection. Silly."

The man's eyebrows burrowed in confusion. He did not recognize this Branch member yet her words were said with such an authority that he was compelled to listen to her regardless. Unfortunately, his pride got the better of him. He pulled his hands away from one another, droplets of blood pooling on the ground beneath him.

"That wasn't smart," Hinata confided. "If you went to a medic they could have ensured that no further damage was made in extraction. Ohh…" she saw him try to make the same activating hand-sign, except this time on her. She quickly added, "If you get to try your jutsu on me that means I get to try one of my jutsu on you."

The man hesitated, but still went through with his movements, his anger overriding.

Hinata didn't move or respond to his action. Putting on an act she looked left to right as if curious to what was supposed to occur, her mouth forming an O. "Is it my turn? If I'm being honest compared to who I have been training with this isn't going to be much fun…" Hinata knew she was just toying with the man, but she could help herself. If she remembered correctly this man had actually used the curse seal on her when she first received it all those years ago. She had let the incident go, but now it was forced to the forefront of her mind.

He had done it for no valid reason. The immense pain he caused her was just a meaningless kind of twisted revenge.

She was weak. He did not like being beneath someone like her.

It was Hanabi that stopped him. Hanabi, so young and afraid, had the courage to protect her older sister, someone who was supposed to protect her.

That was why the scene played so strongly with her emotions. Looking at the tear stained face of the youngest of the two girls in the middle, Hinata knew that he had activated the seal on her. Fortunately, because she was still conscious, it was likely only for a short period of time.

"Who are you?" the man spat.

Hinata released the henge placed over herself, letting her chakra flow at a level just above his own, but didn't pause in her musings. "Now, what jutsu should I use…?"

The man visibly paled.

It was then that Hinata stopped her antics and sighed lightly. "I'm just joking I'm not going to hurt you." Well, anymore… She looked to his bleeding hands. Oops.

A deep chuckle bounded out, "Should have seen your face. Ah, that was good."

Hinata looked to Genma who was making his way over to stand beside her. Genma smirked, "I knew you were the one to steal my senbon." His eyes darted to the one dripping in crimson.

Hinata shrugged innocently. "You took the one I was playing with."

Genma smirked. "Fair enough. Is this guy bothering you?"

"Yes, but that's not issue…"

"Hm?" Genma implored, an eyebrow raised.

"He threatened one of his seniors. That's a criminal offence." Hinata seemed deeply contemplative.

Genma eyed her from his peripherals. His body still facing the Hyūga causing the disturbance. "You normally ignore stuff like that. Kakashi not so much." When it's you, was strongly implied. "Is he finally rubbing off on you?" He taunted playfully.

Hinata smiled. "No, I'm just willing to make an exception."

"I see."

All Hyūga were observing the casual conversation that was taking place during such a hectic moment with a mixture of awe and confusion. Neji was the only exception. He maintained his aloof appearance even though he felt immense relief with Hinata's presence. He could rest for the time being knowing that damned seal wouldn't be activated with her protecting him. It hurt his pride to admit such a thing to himself, but at least he was relying on someone of such a high rank. It was more acceptable in his mind. It still sounded odd to him. For as long as he could remember it was him protecting her.

Hinata blushed, "Oh, sorry, we got distracted. Okay," she said with finality. "Genma, you are going to escort this man here to see Hokage-sama. To heal his hands of course."

"Of course," Genma chimed, his smirk still prevalent. "Let's go, buddy." Though his voice was calm it was a definite order. Genma was now a newly promoted full Jōnin; as shown by his Jōnin vest. After developing skills in other areas, with a bit of Kakashi's help, he was promoted. This was what allowed him to become a Jōnin Leader to Hanabi's team. It was truly an intricate ploy. Since he was still new to this position he would technically be of a lower rank than the long time Jōnin that was the Main House Hyūga in front of him. However, with his connections to the elite shinobi of the village, and the knowledge that accompanied it, he could be classified as a higher rank unofficially.

Genma was also stronger than the Hyūga in Hinata's unbiased opinion.

When the arrogant Hyūga didn't move Hinata asked sweetly, "Did he stutter? I think that was my thing…"

Those few words brought him out of his reprieve. Trying to backtrack he gave bow at his waist, "My apologies, Hinata-sama. I did not recognize you with your skillful henge."

Hinata didn't care for his words. "I'm glad it has your approval," she drawled as she made her way over to the two girls. She didn't even bother to look at the Hyūga, a direct insult to his person.

He straightened himself and swallowed. Mustering up as much pride as could, he stalked after Genma who had already began making his way.

Hinata kneeled down, ignoring the stares of those around her. She activated her Byakugan and lit up her hands in that healing green. The young girl was still clinging to her sister. Hinata didn't force her to move and placed a hand on either side of her head. The girl let out an immediate sigh of relief. "How long was the seal activated for?"

The older sister blinked back her shock, concern for her sister overriding. She sat down to join Hinata. Prying her sisters fingers from her pant leg, she clasped her hands in her own. "A bit less than thirty seconds."

Hinata pressed her lips together in a fine line.

"Um, Hinata-sama?" The older girl asked hesitantly. When Hinata gave a nod to show she was listening the girl continued. "Thank you so so much."

The heavy emotion projected in those words caught Hinata off guard. She deactivated her Byakugan - still maintaining her healing hands - and turned her head to make eye contact. "There is no need for thanks. It is my duty to protect all of you. We are all from the same village after all." She gave a bright smile.

"No, we do owe you our thanks," Neji's deep voice interjected.

Hinata gave a small shake of her head. Speaking a little louder she changed the subject, her eyes once again on her little patient. "Come close if you would like me to teach you this medical jutsu. It helps sooth and minimize the effects of the seal."

Being the courage of the group, Neji sauntered forward. After a few seconds passed a few more joined. Then a few more. In less than a minute Hinata was surrounded by a wall of Hyūga.

Hinata stopped her flow of chakra so that she could explain the technique from the beginning. "It's very simple. Especially for Hyūga who all have great control of the chakra in their hands," she smiled. "Here are the signs." Hinata slowly manoeuvred through each sign that was necessary to conduct the jutsu. "Once this becomes easy come find me and I can show you a simpler way to activate it. You need to be well versed in the technique or else the change will actually make the jutsu more difficult," she explained. "This can't be used for normal injuries. It won't work to heal cuts, bruises and stuff like that. This is specifically for the Caged Bird Seal."

Various nods and mumbles of understanding were given around her.

Hinata stood and moved slightly to the side. "Well, I have a meeting to attend to," she motioned to Neji. "I don't think you will have to worry about that man again," she remarked to everyone. "If he does, find a way to let me know and I will deal with it."

"Hinata-sama," a new voice called out unsurely.

Hinata gave him her full attention.

"We appreciate your help… Please do not take what I am about to say negatively. But, are you sure it is wise to get involved with the Hyūga again. Besides that, officials are not allowed to interfere with Clan business."

"We wouldn't want to see you get in trouble for helping us," the older sister beside Hinata added.

Hinata grinned, "Now it is I who owes you all thanks. It is very kind of you to worry for me. Please do not though. Trust me and just keep yourselves safe. I am positive Hiashi-sama will side with me for the time being." That caught most off guard, for those that it didn't, they had correctly assumed that Hiashi would want something from Hinata now that he knew of the truth. "So please do not worry. I will see you all around." Hinata gave a tiny bow.

Seeing that Hinata was done Neji took a few steps in the direction they both had come from. This time, however, he waited a moment for Hinata to catch up. They walked in silence, side by side, both going over the events that had just occurred. Neji was still trying to wrap his head around this new Hinata. No matter what he heard in the rumours being passed along in the streets he had still maintained a shroud of doubt. Now, with what he had just witnessed, he knew that Hinata truly was the ANBU known as Rabbit; the same ANBU that every aspiring ninja of this generation had admired at least at one point. Hinata, on the other hand, was going over all angles the Hyūga could take and whether or not she truly wanted to become a part of the Clan again… Okay, she didn't want to, but whether or not she needed to in order to help those she desired to protect. After a bit more contemplation she decided to stick to her original plan. The one she had created years ago for something similar to this exact scenario. Seeing Neji out of her peripherals reconfirmed this. She did not have to do this on her own.

With a pace slower than when they hastily left, it took them longer to reach where Hinata had left her shadow clone. Just before they turned the corner Hinata released the jutsu and quickly processed the new memories. Neji didn't comment on the clone.

It was only a few more minutes when they arrived at their original destination. Neji pulled open the screen door and stepped to the side to allow Hinata to enter first. The room was much less lavish than where she had met with Hiashi. The walls were barren like the surrounding halls. It had a similar plain colour scheme of bland creams as the rest of the manor. The tatami mats that were set up were much thinner than the others as well. Most would not have noticed the subtle differences.

Not wanting to dwell on what had just occurred, Hinata began as soon as they both were seated with the activation of her Byakugan to ensure the immediate area was clear. When privacy was confirmed Hinata started. "It goes without saying that what I say to you today is in private. Hidan is a comrade and a friend. Me sharing such weaknesses with you is already a betrayal of his trust, but it cannot be avoided. Because of this I expect you to be constantly present as Hidan's guard. It is your responsibility to find proper times to sleep and maintain hygiene. If you succeed I will guarantee you a place in ANBU." Hinata released some of the tension with a restrained smile, "And because it is you, I am sure you will be quickly promoted to ANBU Captain."

Neji used his well practiced self-control to not react to the kind compliment. He gave a stiff nod in replace of the rising blush.

Hinata began her explanation by recalling the first time she had fought Hidan on the day she became an official member of the Akatsuki. She spoke of her thought processes and original deduction of his character and how she used this to lower his guard. She then went into an explanation of his religion and how it affects his person. Every detail of his jutsu was explained, every loop hole that Hinata had found since she had met him. Whenever she met someone new she would automatically devise a plan of how she could defeat them in battle if the need ever arose. As she learned more of this person that plan would adapt to the new knowledge she had gained.

It took a bit over an hour to fully go through everything. By the time they were complete it was evening and the Sun was already beginning to set due to the approaching winter months.

The two stood and made their way towards the exit.

"Thank you for taking the time, Hinata-sama," Neji bowed with his thanks.

Hinata gave a sympathetic smile. "Please don't use such formalities."

Neji straightened himself and took a moment to consider her words. He gave a small smile of his own. "It seems that even now you doubt yourself. I am sorry I could not protect you from gaining such a mindset when you were younger, but if it made you the person you are today, I cannot be too regretful. The title suits you, Hinata-sama."

Hinata's features softened. "Very well then," she conceded under her breath.

Neji gave an accepting nod, "I will see you tomorrow?"

Hinata changed her demeanour back to one of content. "Yes, come in the early morning. Just after sunrise."

"Thank you again, Hin-"

"Bye, Neji-san," Hinata interjected quickly ducking out of the room.

Neji smirked after his momentary shock. Somethings will never change.

Hinata closed the door soundlessly behind her. Taking a breath she began to walk, her feet padding lightly over the pale wooden floor. The hall was empty like before, but she could sense more Hyūga in the surrounding rooms and a few scattered people in the courtyard and garden. She followed a path that would lead to her sister who was clearly no longer training.

Hinata kept a calm pace and was grateful for the serene silence. It was something she revelled in. With a few changes to her path, Hinata managed to reach her sisters room without any interruptions. However, she knew the longer she stayed the less likely she would achieve such a feat on her exit.

Hinata knocked on the sliding door and awaited a response. She heard the shuffling of feet before the door quickly opened revealing a broadly grinning Hanabi.

"Neechan!" Hanabi exclaimed, grabbing Hinata's wrist and pulling her into the bedroom.

Hinata reacted quickly so that she didn't stumble forwards from the strong pull.

The teens bedroom was plain in colour like the rest of the grounds, but there were sparks that bespoke of her personality. A twin size bed was situated to the left, pressed back against the wall. The sheets were a light brown, however, a bright orange blanket was folded on the end. Curtains with a similar shade of orange were straight ahead from where Hinata entered, matching the falling rays of sunlight. A dresser to the right had many decorations adorning it. The one that stood out was a picture frame that held the image of the two sisters before Hinata was disowned. They weren't as close at that time, but the picture still managed to bring a smile to Hinata's face.

After her quick appraisal, Hinata brought her eyes back to Hanabi.

Hanabi had changed from her earlier training clothes into a pair of baggy navy blue shorts and a slightly darker tank-top. Her hair was soaking wet, staining the fabric of her shirt with water.

Hinata giggled light-heartedly. Taking a left she went around a corner and through another door way that connected to the heiresses bathroom. After grabbing a hand towel and a brush she reentered the room. Hinata sat crossed legged on the plush bed, patting a spot in front of her.

Hanabi bared a look a of deep contemplation before warily agreeing and sitting on the bed herself, her back to her sister.

Dabbing the ends of her sister's cropped locks, Hinata observed aloud, "I like your new haircut. It suits you."

Hanabi scoffed, "Otousan hated it." Her expression turned mischievous, "Should've seen his reaction."

With the ends removed of excess water, Hinata used the rounded brush to untangle the hair from roots to tips. "If you like it that's all that matters."

Hanabi scoffed again. "You know for someone whose supposed to be all badass now your still all clouds and rainbows."

Hinata smiled at Hanabi's creative choice of words. "Watch your language," she chastised gently.

"Ya, I know, I know, it's 'unladylike.'"

Hinata gave a shake of her head, "Proper for a lady is whatever you decide it to be. And, I'll always be fond of clouds and rainbows."

Hanabi humphed. Although it was not very strongly, for the massaging feeling on her scalp was soothing her irate emotions.

"What?" Hinata questioned.

"Nothing," Hanabi mumbled, "I just thought you'd be different…"

Hinata's arm tensed briefly in it's motion before resuming, it was too short to be noticed by the younger sister. "Would you prefer it if I was different?"

Hanabi took the time to ponder the question. "No, if you were then you wouldn't be Hinata… wouldn't be my Oneechan. Butttt," she carried out the T, "if you were that would be okay too."

"I'm glad," Hinata mussed. She placed the brush by her side and brushed Hanabi's hair so that it rested over one shoulder. "Hanabi," Hinata's tone became more serious, "I am sorry for what you had to go through because of me: with the Akatsuki and within the village." She could not make any excuses for herself.

Hanabi torqued her head in order to see Hinata's regretful countenance. She sighed and turned herself around fully. Simultaneously smacking one hand on each side of Hinata's face, Hanabi forced Hinata to look at her.

Hinata could only blink in surprise at her now squished face.

"Oneechan, I get it. I mean I don't really get it because I don't know everything you had to do, but I know you did what you thought was right. You always do." Hanabi lifted her right hand off and patted Hinata's cheek a few times. "Don't worry."

Hinata felt a surplus of emotion from her sister's kind words. "You've grown into a lovely young woman, Hanabi-chan." Seeing Hanabi's deep blush that really must have run in the family, Hinata lightened the mood. "I'll have to thank Kashi even more now."

"Kashi?" Hanabi dropped her hands back down into her lap. "You mean Kaka-chan? No need to thank that annoying ol' pervert."

Hinata covered her mouth with her hand to try and stifle the laugh that threatened to erupt at the demeaning nickname.

Seeing a her sister losing her refined cool, Hanabi prodded further. "He's so random! And he's always reading that stupid book!" Her hands flew out to the side in exaggerated exasperation. "Have you seen him with Spandex guy (1)?" Hanabi slapped her forehead in dismay. "I swear if I were you I would be careful or else he'll ruin your image."

Hinata let her laugh chime through the room. "He is a good man," Hinata defended though her laugh was still ringing. "All the best shinobi are a little off in some way."

"Well, he's off in a lot of ways," Hanabi joked.

Copying a certain someone Hinata used her two fingers to bop Hanabi in the middle of her forehead. "Don't be so hard on him. I wouldn't be here today without him."

Hanabi grouchily rubbed the new sore spot.

Hinata giggled, this time at her sister's expense. "Okay, I should leave now. I will see you soon." There was so much more she needed to talk about, yet couldn't force herself to bring up at the time.

"Okay, I'll hold ya to it."

Hinata gave a final laugh before slipping off of the bed and through the shoji door, closing it behind her. She felt so… so… so happy. She wouldn't have even been able to imagine the amount of pain Itachi had felt if she hadn't actually felt his pain through his memories. The idea of having someone so utterly precious to you - your younger sibling - detest you because of something you needed to do to protect them was heartbreaking. She was fortunate for Hanabi's mature understanding.

Having Hanabi laughing with her again, instead of just watching at a distance was a great feeling that easily overwhelmed her. A carefree smile was on her face, one that she never wanted to fade. It was one of innocence and joy.

Unfortunately, the world always manages to turn love into suffering.

In Hinata's fog of happiness she was not as in tune to the people around her.

"Hinata."

The voice that broke her reverie, it was the voice of her father.

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Author's Note

1 - Pun intended — 9pm at night when I wrote that… that is what you call quality writing

Thanks for reading!

Again I will try to hurry along the next update, but you know… life. I went from being supposed to work 3 days a certain week, to 4, to 5, to 6. They don't really let me plan too well. LOL, I will try though :D It's a promise :D

Please review and let me know what you think!

What do you think is going to happen next?

What do you want to see happen next?

Let me know :D :D

Until next time,

EK

:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D