Chapter 26. Preliminary Exam. Part two
Truthfully I don't know exactly why Neji hate Hinata
I had read all the fanfiction, many of them said because she weak and responsible for his father death that get killed due to replacement for Hinata's.
To be honest, I will call that bullshit
Neji is genius... A prodigy... Perhaps when I read those fanfiction I believe in them because it more easy to accept, but when I live in here, with them, I found that reason utterly stupid and moron
There no way he going to blame her because she can't defend herself when she were child, I mean come on! Even Neji knew Hiashi or his father can't fight Jōnin adult when they were three years old!
Neji is not stupid, he misguided perhaps yes, but he clearly not a moron. If he is then how the hell he master Kaiten (Revolving Heaven) only in less than a month?! A technique that Hanabi or her father take few months to complete!
Neji Hyūga is Itachi Uchiha version of Hyūga, I had no doubt about that. But sadly, unlike Itachi, he doesn't have proper trainer and experience due to born in wrong era. Had he born at same age like Itachi, I sure those two will be known very well
My guess is he hate her because she Main House, but there chance it not that. Let me tell you, all things you read in fanfiction about how Hyūga clan abusing Branch member of their family doesn't exist. The Seal not used to slaving the Branch House family, it really used to protect Byakugan
I already gather information from Hinata, the Main House of family not giving seal because they normally not become Shinobi and fighting, only few who become. Most of them run the politic or money of the clan, so they never branded because they not often stand in front line
The Branch House meanwhile is the Main House bodyguard, they are soldier, protector of them, they the one who rose to front line if war happen. They even have head of their house that act as adviser and helper, there even Elders that giving right to vote if something happen, Hiashi himself close to few of branch house
'It not that simple! There no way Main House that generous!'
Sadly, anyone who make comment in that part also right. Despite they treated right but there fear lingering on the heart of the Main House. According to Hinata, in history there incident where Branch House revolting to Main House once, which resulted quarter of Main House family dead
Originally Main House is only the one who handle politic or such thing but due to that event, they trained as well into warrior just in case if something happen. The seal also modified slightly to make sure the incident won't happen again
And thus, the other name of the original seal born, Tori no Juin (Caged Bird Curse Seal). A cage in order to prevent the eagle inside that cage lashed at their creator
According to Hinata who told by her father, there few numbers of Ninja that resent Main House, Neji including one of them
I don't know the details about the family, however despite few members show hostile to each other the head of the Branch House and Main House try their best to make sure there won't be conflict happen
Neji... I guess his hatred is reasonable, his father is used as replacement, he see his father murdered in front of him, and Hiashi instead try to explain it, he treat Neji without any special treatment. My guess he swallowed by his own guilt and shame, probably because his wife and only brother dead and he can't do anything to prevent that
And when Neji try to attack Hinata in past, Hiashi retaliate it with violence by using the seal, thus making his hatred bigger and darker
As I stare down at Hinata who prepared to fight. She can win this actually, if she not hold back and able to caught him in surprise... But she only has one chance... One chance... And to do that she must went with intent to kill...
And knowing Hinata... I doubt she will fight with intent to kill, not when facing against her family...
...
Tsk... Be okay Hinata...
The moment Hayate said 'began', both Genin rushed to each other, to untrained eyes both of them nothing but a blur. Neji the one who faster, his palm open and extended, aimed to Hinata face
The dark indigo haired girl see this. Neji undoubtedly fast, faster than normal Genin, proof that he dubbed as Strongest Genin by Rock Lee is not for nothing. However for all his prodigy and strength, there one who can rival or surpass him, and Hinata has train with that person for long time, for a years
Quickly, she raise one of her hands, her forearm slammed to the wrist of the incoming attack, denying it from attacking her. She extend her other palm in instant with same intent and aim
However her strike miss as Neji simply cocked back her head slightly before rise her other palm and aim it at Hinata chest. Taking one step back, Hinata pull her body, her arm that blocked Neji first attack swat away his second before she press her feet to the ground slightly and kick it off
Neji twist his body to the side, allowing the palm pass through him, pivoting his leg, he curl one of his palm and extend two fingers, he instantly brough it to Hinata back that open due to she jumped to him before
However, the moment he curl his fist, Hinata quickly twist her body as well, in instant she faced Neji who have his fingers aimed to her and swat it away, she balanced her footstep before launching her other arm, using the force of the ground, she thrust it quickly to Neji chest
Neji eyes that widen in small margin is only sign of his surprise as he barely able to raise his other palm, swatting away Hinata attack. However just when he finish block that attack, another one come
Uchiha and Senju maybe direct descendant from Rikudō Sennin, however Hyūga clan is direct descendant from brother of Rikudō Sennin, Hamura Ōtsutsuki.
The Gentle Fist style of fight is a form of hand to hand combat that inflicts internal damage through attacking the body of their enemy. To do this, the user surgically inject a certain amount of Chakra into the opponent Chakra pathway system, causing damage to surrounding organs due to their proximity to the Chakra circulatory system
Such powerful form, even a simple tap to the chest can kill someone
And this style of fight only possessed by Hyūga clan, only can be used and performed by them. Most people knew how to inject Chakra to someone body, however none of them could inject Chakra to their circulatory system because none of them can see it, they all everywhere, it like trying to insert needle to it hole in plain black colored wall
Byakugan... The all seeing eyes... Those title is not a joke, it not simply a title. The eyes truly can see anything. All Genjutsu proved to be futile in front of it, no people can hide from this eyes no matter how they wish to
Gentle Fist not need for strength, what for strength that capable to break bone and destroy steel if the user can make someone heart explode just by tapping it?
And that power, what make them feared and dubbed as strongest the moment Uchiha Clan extinct. No one dare to fight in close range from them because they can kill you just by one tap
Thus, what happen when Hyūga facing another Hyūga?
It was same like asking fight between two swordman
All depend on how the users skills, experience, strength, defense, and agile. In this battle, it was well known that Neji superior than Hinata, in aspect of power, and experience, Neji surpass her in everything
The battle should be end not long before it start, it was obvious and yet
'I... Being pushed back? By HER?!' Neji thought with mixture of rage and disbelief
It was now very obvious that Neji in hard position somehow. Despite how he supposed to be more superior in strength, and more experienced, but he is the one who in defensive against Hinata assault
It because Hinata fight differently
"Listen Hinata, if you one day facing another Hyūga or someone who familiar with Gentle Fist, you will be in problem."
Hinata swing her palm, the way she move were clean, swift, it almost like movement of water that flowing in pipe. Strike to above, pull it! Turn it down a little and move it aside! Aim to shoulder!
"You have no strength, no offense but woman commonly weaker than man in physical aspect. Add the fact the enemy could be faster than you, more experienced as well. No matter how dangerous Gentle Fist but if your enemy knew how to handle it then you clearly will lose."
Neji gritted his teeth, his hand moved above, intent to block the palm that aimed to his chin, only for it tilted suddenly to below to stomach in almost impossible angle! He cursed inwardly as his left hand move and swat it away just in time, however, Hinata other palm already there, thrusted to his right cheek and Neji forced to take step back to dodge it less the Juuken will harm his face
"Then how you going to win? Simple, use something that no one expect from Gentle Fist. This thing, is thankfully something you have." Eleven years old Haru grinned to her who blinked
"I-I do?" Hinata stammered in shock and disbelief. She, outcast and someone who not fit to be Heiress possess something that could handle Gentle Fist?
"Yes..." Haru nodded, then his face turned to grim "However, I must tell you, it will be painful, this fighting style have risk." He stare at Hinata eyes who filled with determination and smiled "I knew you won't back down, I can see it in your eyes, make no mistake I won't forbid you to use it. I only knew the basic of it but I think it suit you quite well..."
'That's fighting style...' Hiruzen mouth open slightly as he recognize the way Hinata fight. It been so long he see that fighting style used! He never thin there will be another person who could use it! Not after the user branded as criminal and traitor
'How...?' Anko thought with shock seeing Hinata assaulting her cousin 'How did she able to use that fighting style?!' She knew that style, she also one of use it, however she rarely use it due to she inherit it from him, it hurt her in heart when she use it
That fighting style also only known by few people, all of them is older generation, above her even since the user mostly never seen fight by her generation.
Neji try to make distance, right now he need to pull back, making strategy quick to face her. As much he hate to admit it but he had no choice except retreat for moment. However, when he about to jump back, Hinata leg slipped between his, make his eyes widened
She won't let him escape, not when she got him where she want to! She began to aim at his lower part, strike to the leg then switch it to chest! She move her whole body, crouching in process to assault lower part using her legs and palm, or quickly twist her body to aim at upper when she have chance
Neji gritted his teeth as he barely able to block another strike. This is ridiculous! Since when she become this good?! True she rarely spar in Hyūga estate, however in all that fight she never show fighting style like this!
It was then he finally able to caught one of her hand, Hinata seems flinched when he did this, smirked slightly, Neji pull her, palm raised with intent to slam to her chest.
But when he pull her, Hinata bend down her body
The way she pull that angle is near impossible, Human bone shouldn't be able to bend like that, true few of people able to did it but it because they has accustomed their body with it.
And fortunately Hinata is one of them
She allow her body fall, then she slid her legs, allowing her to slip between Neji legs, by doing this the male Hyūga body pulled down. Having no other choice, he quickly release it. With Byakugan, he can tell he wide open from behind, he quickly twist his body as fast as he could in order to be able to face her
But it too late
The moment he turned around, Hinata both palms extended and thrusted, smacked to his chest with enough strength to hurl him back
Gasp come out from his mouth, followed by small amount of blood. A single tap of Gentle Fist is dangerous, it could break someone organ with proper control. And this one is launched with strong and enough power to push someone, that was clearly dangerous
He manage to hold the pain, using his legs to take few steps back in order to make sure he not fall. Eyes wide with disbelief as he held his chest that hurt, he stare at Hinata with shocked face
How?! How this failure able to hit him?! To wound him like this?!
Hinata who oblivious to his thought, merely take stance once again, eyelid narrowed down to make her Byakugan more menacing before rushing to him again
"A good hit." I commented with smirk
I won't say it, but I clearly take amusement from Gai, Lee, Kurenai and Kiba shocked expression. While few of people who around me also show disbelief face but make no mistake, those four expression is the best
"H-How?" Kiba stammered with mixture of awe and disbelief as he see the fight
"Neji... Lost?" Lee muttered, his tone also filled with disbelief
Correction, he still not lose, he just got pushed back -quite hard though I must say- but the battle still far from over
"This is the first time I see someone get clean hit to Neji... First time I see someone younger than him..." Gai commented with astonishment "You really train her well Kurenai! I never thought you have talent in taijutsu!" He said with toothy grin
The beauty long haired Jōnin only can shook her head, she still observing Hinata as if she just meet her for first time "No Gai... I don't know about this... During our training, I mostly give them Chakra control and trick about Genjutsu, while I give basic taijutsu but it proved unnecessary seeing my Genin already have their own trainer in their home."
Gai blinked in response, his grin vanish as he scowled "Then how she achieve that style?"
Kurenai in response merely shook her head once again, face scrunched to curiosity and suspicion before she turned to Naruto and Shino "Did you two know about this?"
Judging by surprised face of Naruto and Shino mouth open slightly under his collar -thanks to my height I can see it- it was clear they also show surprise look
Of course they should, I teach this style to Hinata. Though I'm not as good as Bajiquan in this style, but I knew the basic. Living as skipper in my previous life make me learn martial arts, it was necessary if there something happen in boat you know? Though it not save me when bullet pierce my chest and drowned in sea with shark
"Err no..." Naruto answered "I knew Hinata-chan is good, but I never see this one..."
"Same occur to me sensei." Shino said, adjusting his sunglasses "Why? Because I will explain it in instant before you can ask."
"I don't think you will explain it Shino." I snorted "If they asked why you not explain it then you will answer because you never ask..." I said with amusement in my voice
Shino turned to me, his eyebrow quirked slightly and I swear I see he smirking under that collar! "It seems, you know about this Haru." He said nonchalantly, not even make any attempt to deny my previous accusation
I feel everyone eyes turned to me before I shrugged "I'm the one who taught her in that style." I admitted simply "Though I only teach the basic since I can't use that style."
"That quite advanced fighting style..." Gai commented, he now staring at me with new light, Lee also look into me with respect
"I just come up with the idea, heck! I barely able to use the basic since I broke and dislocated my joint in process when I show it to Hinata." I grimaced at the memory, really, that fighting style is big no, no to me.
"Her fighting style quite familiar..." Kakashi muttered, eye narrowed as he look to Hinata "I swear I has seen or read about it somewhere..."
Of course it familiar, there information about it user in all Bingo book. Imagine my surprise when I found out it was him who use this fighting style
Then everyone look at me in expectant manner, I simply blinked and sweatdropped at the stare. Does they really expect me to explain it aloud to them? I'm not type who doing monologue!
"Then what?" Yakumo asked me, it seems she knew I didn't intent to continue to talk
"Do you really ask me to explain someone fighting style? Add the fact that someone is my close friend and all of you possibly going to fight her in future?" I asked back in dull tone
The Genin have decency to look sheepish at that while the Jōnin give me look of approval, mixed with amusement, though Gai and Kurenai also show disappointment and I rolled my eyes
"I doubt Gai-sensei not know about it though, you are Taijutsu specialist aren't you?"
Gai nodded at my word, and I'm not surprise he knew already how the fighting style work "I do, I have my own hypothesis already, though I wish to heard it from you just to confirm it."
I notice it not just him, Kakashi also seems knew already but he not make any attempt to talk, it seems he respect Hinata privacy
Seeing this, everyone turned to Gai with expectant look, the green spandex Jōnin gladly explain it "I notice, the way Hinata fight is unpredictable... It was like she intent to aim to head, but in last moment she twist her hand, maneuver it to chest or other part in instant." His eyes narrowed further as he try to improve his analystic "However to do that... You must have intense flexibility." He turned to me while saying the last part
I only silence under his gaze, in corner of my eyes, I notice Kakashi stiffened, eye widen slightly in realization, it seems he knew who the original user of this style.
Yes, the one who use this fighting style is Orochimaru. I don't know for sure, maybe he not though, but the way Orochimaru fight is he often using his flexibility when he fight close range, there information about him in Bingo Book
And when I read it, I remembered Snake style Martial Art
And when I think about it, oh yeah, Hinata certainly can use this style
"Yes... Flexibility is the key of this style..." I relented, giving little information, my tone was low though so only people around me can hear it "Originally I never intent to teach Hinata fighting style because it dangerous, one wrong move it going to break your bone, I already experience that. But when I see Hinata..."
I turned to Hinata, small smile filled with proud crossed to my face "Trust me, that girl maybe not a flexible like a snake, but she quite one. I notice it when we spar a bit and when I did, I teach her the basic of this fighting style." I said
Among many fanfiction, many stated Hinata is quite flexible and its true, she indeed have flexible body. It was this type of body that make her able to perform Shugohakke Rokujūyon Shō (Protective Eight Trigrams Sixty-Four Palms) in Canon
And damn, Hinata clearly improve this style, the result is currently what I see. During these years, I'm not invincible, there time Naruto and Sasuke manage to beat me, though I beat them back and my score higher. However among Naruto, Sasuke and Shino, none of them able to beat me alone
It was Hinata
Hinata is the first person that I lose to among those four. Call it luck, but lose still lose, she got one of my chest, enough to rupture my lung and knock me down to hospital in instant
Poor girl after that feel so guilty and afraid to use this style when against me due to fear she will kill me in accident, heck! She even try to stop using this style anymore had I not convince her
"But to achieve such level of flexibility..." Gai murmured, eyes wide slightly as he give me wary look
In response, I merely narrowed my eyes back "And what you expect to Gai-sensei? Do you think I kiss all part of her body and said magic word then she turned to flexible like that?" I asked in dry tone. Kakashi giggling in pervert manner while the female and the innocent Genin face blushed slightly
To achieve such level body like Hinata, it wasn't easy. You need to break your bone in process of doing that, and when it mended, you break it again until you sure your body accustomed with the way you fight. True in previous World such things would be called brutal, and in here it also called one, however in my World you can't heal broken bones by a mere days, it take a weeks or months perhaps but in here? It not
Neji maybe have superior experience, strength and endurance. However he doesn't have any experience to facing someone like Hinata. That leave only strength and endurance, which is useless against Hinata who have her limbs act like whip, Neji not possessing strength that capable to break ground like Lee, has he have it, the match would be over. His endurance, is useless in front of Gentle Fist, a simple hit could enough to bring him down
Neji maybe born prodigy and genius, but Hinata is someone who work more hard than him
"Indeed... It seems you and Hinata-san quite hard worker." Gai praised me, he give nod of respect at that
I only give small grin before nodded back, I turned my eyes back to Hinata and my face back to stoic
But there drawback for this fighting style...
This style is dangerous... The original Snake style not supposed to be this flexible, this is improvement that Hinata made. Despite it effectiveness, it eat too many stamina, and it also quite painful the longer you use it... Hinata should finish it with tha one hit, Neji lung should be not function anymore and damaged, making him having hard time to fight.
So how?
How did Neji still able to fight?
...
...
...
...
...
Tsk, Hinata you too kind for your own good... If you not pull back that attack...
It was like Haru thought, the blow that Hinata give upon Neji should finish the fight. A single nick from Gentle Fist can damage organ, so such powerful attack would be more than enough to damage Neji lung and make him fell, it was solid hit
But it not...
It because Hinata hold back...
She didn't put large amount of Chakra to that attack, she only put small, despite it powerful blow but it only going to damage her lung rather than blow it like original.
And that, Hinata biggest mistake
Had Hinata facing other Hyūga, the battle indeed would be over. However, Neji by any mean is not, he not normal Hyūga
The moment Neji knew he wide open to her, he already make defensive strategy, he control the flow of his Chakra in his body. He maybe not proficient enough to be able to make full Kaiten, not yet, but he can do the basic
The moment he spin his body, he already let Chakra out from tenketsu around his body, creating rough version of Kaiten, allowing them to protect him. And in proceed when Hinata thrust her palms, the Chakra he let out clashed against her, weakening it further
Despite Hinata have advantage in their first clash, and now still have, to one who know how the fighting style work such Haru knew, Hinata in danger. And unfortunately, so do her opponent
His Byakugan able to see it, the way Hinata arms move, the strain it carry and how damaged it is. His eyes able to see it, it wasn't obvious in first place, however in time now it become clear, Hinata movement become slower
And Neji realize this
Slapping one of Hinata palm while countering it with his own, Neji decide to take offensive, he knew he can't defensive forever, now he caught glimpse of how her technique work despite only experience it once, he can handle it
He has underestimated her, but no more
THWACK!
One moment of weakness, one movement that getting slower a little, it probably won't make any difference had she facing any other person. But for somone as skilled as him? That is all he need
The moment he caught one of her arms, his other hand clamp it elbow as well, then he channel his Chakra to his fingers and he crush it
The strength he put is weak, it won't even enough to make simple metal dent. But Gentle Fist is not fighting style that need that. The moment his fingers crush Hinata extended arm, the muscles, tendon, joint and all part of flesh inside her arm crushed
Small scream elicited from Hinata mouth as she feel pain flow through her hand, her body stiffened and her knee buckled down slightly, one eye closed as she grit her teeth to ignore it. She about to move her other hand, but Neji not let her, in quick, he throw her over his shoulder
The girl despite the pain still able to balanced herself in air, albeit it crude, she still about to land on her own feets, glaring at Neji as she held her arm that seems limping
"I admit, Hinata-sama. You are stronger than I thought but..." Neji said as he slowly turn around, facing the Main House Hyūga, his face set into small smug expression "But like I said, you will lose Hinata-sama... It was your Fate the moment you face me." He stated "Last chance, give up Hinata-sama. With one of your arm like that, there no way you can beat me." He gestured to the limping arm while staring at it for moment
Oh he true... She knew it well... Despite she still have one arm, but she knew it mostly over now... It because she held back in her strength, if only she put more Chakra to her blow, it won't be end like this...
It because of she too kind... Just like what happen to Hanabi...
'Am I... Am I really that weak...?' She thought sadly
"Hinata... You are amazing person the way you are. And you must know, no matter how prodigy, no matter how strong I become, you will always be better person than me. Why? Because someone like you is very special in this World. A woman who is able to show compassion and kindness, yet also strong. That is what you are..."
Her mind halted as those words crossed over her mind, her expression curled to small surprise. Slowly, small smile of happiness appear on her face
Noticing this, Neji eyes narrowed. What so funny? Why she smiling?
Slowly, Hinata raise her face, she clamp her limping arm with her other hand and pinching it. She gasped in pain, eyes bulging slightly and she bit her lip, enough to draw blood in order to not scream
Needless to say, Neji who observe it with Byakugan shocked
"You fix your arm like that? Don't you know how stupid it is?" Neji asked in disbelief voice. He already make sure to crush part of her joint and muscle, he already damaged them, changing their shape so they can't work properly by putting pressure to them.
And this girl, instead healing it, she give another pressure to her organ, making it looks like it original shape despite it rough. Oh make no mistake, despite the shape of the organ and joint close to normal and usable, but it will be hurt so much when using it
And she just did that? To fighting battle that already lose? Absurd!
Slowly, the girl taking stance once again, panting while doing that. Her broken arm shaking badly obviously due to pain, but her eyes still sharp, it still show determination, and her Byakugan still active
"Tsk! I had enough of this." Neji stretch his leg, bending down his body slightly and extend both his arms, taking a familiar stance that people knew "This is the end Hinata-sama."
Hinata not even reply him, more precisely, she can't. She need energy to move, and every time she did, her arm hurt, she not speak so she can't scream. Biting her pain down, slowly she also extend her legs, arms spread open despite her right one shaking
Haru who watching this had wide eyes, as medic nin he knew what Hinata just try to did, that already make him flabbergasted like Neji and now she try to pulling this?!
'Oi... Oi... Hinata, with one of your arm like that, you can't posssibly think to...'
Neji teeth gritted further under his mouth, eyes narrowed with small fury but he not make any comment.
""Jūkenhō... (Gentle Fist Technique)""
It wasn't only Neji who mutter it, but Hinata as well much to the male Hyūga surprise
""Hakke Sanjūni Shō! (Gentle Fist Technique : Eight Trigrams Thirty-Two Palms)""
The distance between them is five meters, for normal person to cover them in one step will be impossible, even adult men can't do that. And yet, they did
The two of them moved at same time. To anyone eyes that not trained, they nothing but blur, they are fast, before blink of eye they already meet in middle. Arms raised, their palms extended, glowing with blue color of Chakra that slither around them like flame in wood
"Two palms!"
Two hands meet with other hands, the target were chest and abdomen. They clashed and blocking each other, creating small ripple of Chakra that become visible and flared for everyone to see
"Four palms!"
The second targets is right and left chest, once again the fingers clashed and creating another wave of Chakra in air
"Eight Palms!"
Neji two hands that launched, blocked by one of Hinata hand, however her right hand that raised easily swat away by him, and in process hit her in side stomach where liver supposed to be, then it moved and smashed to her abdomen.
Blood come out from Hinata mouth, one of her leg take step back, the pain she felt when it crashed to her were quite immense as she struggle to not fell
Neji not even hesitate
"Sixteen palms!"
Eight strikes launched, there no anymore defense, despite Hinata try her best to raise one of her hand but it proved futile as Neji hand went through them, smashing to her body without even flinching or caring to Hinata who cough another blood and take few step backs to not fall
"Hakke Sanjūni Shō!"
A sixteen strikes delivered, faster than all of the previous strike, even trained man will be having hard time to see his hands movement. All of them rained down to Hinata body before one last strike slammed to her chest, it stronger than all the other one as Hinata body hurled away by it strength, crashed to the ground roughly and skidded around one or two feets away before stopped
Seeing this, Neji straighten his posture, the vein that bulging around his eyes receded as he stare down at Hinata
"Its over... I admit I surprise you can perform clean six strikes in that condition but that's it..." Neji said in monotone "If you listen to me in begin with and give up, you won't be hurt like this. Even I avoid most vital organs but right now you won't be able to stand."
Hinata not responded, she only laying in ground weakly, her body not show any sign of movement, the only thing that make everyone aware she still alive is small, and shallow of her body that show she breathing albeit it weak and barely visible
Neji let out small grunt before he turned to Hayate "Proctor, call the match."
Hayate take few steps forward, eyes roamed to Hinata for moment before nodded "The winner of the fifth match, Neji-"
TAP
A voice of palm slapped ground echoed, cutting Hayate declaration from complete. All of people turned to the source of the sound and few people let out gasp at what they seen
It like watching a dead body that rose, her movement slow, hands and legs shaking, wobbled with effort to push herself despite the pain she held, her whole body twitching as if she just electrocuted. A cough, followed by small glob of blood escape from her mouth and splatter to the ground. It was obvious to everyone that she no longer in condition to move, less more fight
And yet, she still stand
Despite her knee buckled, quivering to hold her weight, but she still taking stance, albeit it weak and no longer called fighting stance, but the hand that raised and her pupil that spread like spider web and vein bulge around it, show she still wish to fight, she still not lose
'This... This is ridiculous!' To be honest Haru already suspect thing like this will happen, but when he see it directly, it still amaze him to no end. When he see Hinata and Lee still standing in anime he feel awe and astonishment, though he knew it not real
But when he see it like this
It not awe he feel first... It was rage... Pure rage and followed by mixture of astonished and small proudness
Rage because why?! Why she still stand?! She should lay down! She should stop fighting! He can tolerate if she still willing to try when she still healthy, but now?!
Astonishment and proud due to see she still able to stand. One can tell that even move one of her limbs will be very painful and yet, she not just move her limbs but manage to stand and retaking fighting stanc
'Hinata... You... You...'
It was easy... So easy when he imagine the result and the plan, but when he see it like this...
"Why?!" Neji asked, tone filled with shock and disbelief "Why you still stand?! Lay down! Even now you barely able to move, and yet. Why you still stand?!" He demanded, sweats poured slightly from his face
'Why...? Why..? Indeed...'
Why she still fighting? She is not like her counterpart who wish to prove and change herself. She not meek girl who afraid to her own shadow and barely able to talk without stuttering. In here, Haru make sure she get enough attention and raise her confident, despite she still quite meek and nervous but comparing her to her counterpart is like comparing Hyena and Wolf
Yet... In here, she show the same amount of bravery and spirit much like her counterpart
"Because..." She rasped out, it was barely able to heard, Neji only able to know what she say because he read her lip "... ... ..."
Neji eyes widened slightly as he read what Hinata said. His gaze briefly narrowed to certain direction before flashed back to her, and Byakugan flare to live
"That doesn't make any sense." Neji said with scowl "There no point in acting tough. You're barely able to stand now. I can tell by this eyes that you have carried burden for being Hyūga family for long time..." He shook his head slightly "You cursed your powerlessness, that's why you keep fightiing despite the pain... But you must know, people cannot change." He close his eyes, mind drifted back to his father destiny "This is destiny... You not need to suffer anymore, let it go..."
Hinata who panting, manage to make small and bitter smile, head shaking in negative manner "You know it not right Neji-niisan." Hinata manage to utter out, eyes filled with pity "You also suffer like me..."
"What?" Neji asked, tone filled with confusion
"You are the one who is confused and suffering inside the fate of the Main and Branch families." She answered, the sympathy in her voice was very clear
Neji freeze for moment, body become rigid and Byakugan widen slightly. Then his face confronted to pure cold, teeth bared before he rushed to Hinata with new level of speed
"Neji! The battle already over!" Hayate yelled as he see Neji rushed to her
However Neji not heard it, he too caught by rage that gnawing in his mind, palm glowing once again with power, murderous intent is clear in his eyes
THWACK!
Everyone freeze
It happen so fast that only Hiruzen and ninja at Kakashi caliber can see it.
Neji too, despite his rage able to see it thanks to Byakugan, he knew what happen but it was too fast and he already in middle of the way so he can't stop
Fortunately, the fist stopped few inches from his chest
Standing in front of Neji who few meters away from Hinata, is Haru. His left hand clamped to Neji extended palm, lowering it to halt his move while his right fist extended few inches away from Neji chest
No one spoke... There only utter silence, even Hayate who about to move to stop Neji also paused as everyone stare at Haru. The brown haired boy face lost his always polite expression, his face is blank and hollow, like a doll
"The match is over Hyūga-san... The proctor has declare it." Haru speak, his voice filled with monotone and echoed to the hall that only silence
"Oi..." Kiba muttered with wide eyes "Isn't he..." He glanced at Haru who supposed to stand in there. And he see him, he's there, but suddenly the Haru that stand in balcony slowly fade away like hallucination "The hell?!"
Neji Byakugan glaring hotly to Haru who keep firm grip on his palm, making sure it not move, Haru face still not changed, it still blank as his black raven eyes bore to him.
"Now, I will release your arm, if you try to strike me, trust me the result won't be pretty." There no malice intent or threat in Haru voice, he simply said it in tone that spoke '1 + 1 = 2'. And as if making point, Neji can see through the Byakugan that the Chakra flow in Haru extended fist become more strong and there small, glowing blue aura in there, showing the power it held
Slowly, Haru release his clamp on Neji wrist, allowing the Genin Hyūga to lower his hand, the Chakra on his hand dismissed but his Byakugan still alive as he glare at Haru
In response, Haru merely turned away, not even bothering to cast any further look to him. He approach Hinata who shaking while stand
"Hey..." Haru greeted softly "You did good job... You can rest now..." He said in soothing tone
Hinata eyes focused to him, heavy air come out from her mouth, for moment Haru can see the fire in her eyes still exist, she still willing to fight. But slowly, she lower her stance, her Byakugan dismissed, returning to her white pearl colored eyes again
"R-Really?" She croaked out, voice filled with hope
Haru able to hide his surprise well under charming smile as he give her nod "Yes... Let me take you to medic now..." He doesn't even realize that his voice more like plea rather than asking
Hinata manage to nod back before her whole body slumped forward, Haru instantly take her, one arm extended to lower part of her body and he scoop her in bridal style in instant
Then he turned to the door of medic "The Hell you all doing stupid Medic Nin! Do. You. FUCKING. JOB!" He roared, anger and hatred was very clear in his voice
He watched with satisfaction as the Medic nin group scrambling over and approaching him while stammering apologize, but his face still firm and show no emotion
He aware that Naruto, Sakura, Shino, Kiba and Kurenai approaching him but he doesn't care, his eyes focused to Hinata unconscious form
She look so pale... Paler than original... Her lips also dark blue, lost most of all it blood color. Her breath barely able to seen.
'She not hurt... Not more severe than in Canon, Neji seems not hit her heart, thanks Gods for that... But still...'
The burning flame that blazing in his stomach is something else... For all he talk and boast aboug become tyrant, for once Haru realize he actually have weak stomach...
He watched as the medic nin carry Hinata away, his eyes never leaving from her even when she pass through the door
"You who caused this." Neji speak in silence, eyes bore to Haru back "It because of you, you the one encourage her... You knew she can't win and yet... If you wish to blame someone blame yourself..."
"Bastard!" Naruto growled, anger was visible in his face and for moment his cerulean blue eyes flashed red "You-"
"I didn't believe she will lose." Haru cut whatever Naruto going to said, he still not facing Neji as his eyes still locked to where Hinata carried away "I knew she can win if she wish to, but it seems she didn't... Surely you know that, if she put serious blow to your chest you already lose."
"And yet she didn't..." Neji scoffed simply "Like I said, she too powerless, too weak. She doesn't have heart to become great person. Despite she have advantage, but she still lose, if she truly become strong then I should be the one who lose now." His eyes narrowed slightly "This is only proof that people can't change from their destiny..."
Haru silence for moment was what Neji got. The older Genin let out scoff, obviously thinking there no response come back from him
"Then how about you? You, who were Branch Family, aren't you supposed to protect her who Main Family? It was your duty, your Destiny. Yet, here you are hurting her..."
Neji body stiffened, face turned to anger in instant and his Byakugan flared as he glaring at Haru. The boy now already spin his body, allowing him to see half of his face who bore to him with nonchalant look, not even feel threatened slightly
"Hit the nail wasn't I?" Haru asked plainly, his eyebrow raised a bit, before slowly his lip curled. A smirk crossed to his face. It wasn't normal smirk, it not arrogant or filled with amusement
It was smirk that filled with cruelty, one that rapist held when held down his victim, filled with nothing but malicious intent, sadistic glee and mockery toward morality and righteous
An expression that only held by a Monster...
"Perhaps, the Branch Family really deserve to be caged like a mongrels they are if they barbarian like you."
"YOU!-" Neji was all but calm as he roared, anger visible in his face, surpassing the one that he held to Hinata. Byakugan instantly flare to alive as he take menacing steps forward to Haru
Haru evil smirk and gleam was very visible to everyone, despite he not make any attempt to move but it was clear he wishing for him to strike. And to everyone who know him better, he will kill him
"Enough!" Hiruzen barked, his voice was strong and very loud, he not look nor heard like old man for moment, eyes sharp and face set into stern expression
Neji freeze from his step, Byakugan still blazing and his posture is someone who about to taking step. But he stop. It as if he turned to frozen. Same thing occur to Haru as his smirk dismissed, his whole body tensed for second before he freeze like statue
There something in the old man voice, no one can hear it perhaps, but to people who know exactly just how capable the old man and knew who he is for years, they knew what just happen
There event when people who in middle of war, and in middle of screaming freeze when they heard or sense something. No matter how they deluded to their fight but their sense still turned on when the thing come upon them
It was fear...
Only a small... So fast and even unseen save for few people... But Haru and Neji has feel as if something just gripped their hearts...
"Both of you..." Hiruzen continued, he still not leaving from where he stand but his eyes switching between Neji and Haru "Will return to balcony now, in instant so the next match can be resumed. If not, then you two will be disqualified from this exam... You two are Ninja who entering exam to become Chūnin, act like one! Use your mind and calm your emotion.." He stated before his eyes turned to other Genins who in arena "Same thing occur to you all, NOW!"
They gone in less than three seconds. All of them instantly jumped and ran to balcony, Haru himself included. Having feeling familiar dread feeling few days ago he did not wish to make Hiruzen more angry to him, not after what happen
Seeing this, Hiruzen give nod and turned to Hayate who barely able to suppress flinch when the old man eyes meet his "Continue the match..."
"R-Right..." Hayate nodded and the projector start to work once again
Haru meanwhile stand in balcony again, eyes blank as he grip the fence on balcony while face set into small smile that not reaching his ear. Part of him mostly afraid to Hiruzen, but those fear also raging against his anger that still burning inside him
Yakumo in instant approaching him, eyes filled with concern "Haru, you-" whatever she going to say freeze on her throat when she notice Haru eyes
The dark colored eyes somehow seems darker, seems colder and more hollow. It as if staring at the abyss itself. She only had seen that eyes once, once when he on Wave mission, when he massacred hundred bandit by himself and not even once feel pity or regret for slaughter that he commit
"Yes?" He asked, his smile not reach his ear, it was polite and cold one
"N-Nothing..." Yakumo quickly replied, she instantly turned away, avoiding his gaze. For some reason, she don't think talking to Haru now is the best thing to do
Kurenai noticing this about to call the boy, but a firm grip from Kakashi to her shoulder make her paused and turn to him.
"Don't..." Kakashi whispered, eye filled with grim light "Trust me, don't try to talk with him. Not until he calmed down..."
Kurenai eyebrow narrowed, she turned to Genma who also give nod, face grim as well. She reluctantly give nod and pull back, she doesn't know what make Kakashi and Genma this wary but she knew Kakashi is someone who quite laid back, if he show serious expression like this then...
Kakashi and Genma share glance to each other after see Kurenai relented. With small nod, they ready themselves to move any moment just in case if Haru went wild in middle of conversation, they had seen how capable and the things he do before and won't take any risk by relaxing in present of potential berserker
Haru merely tilted his head, his smile still there and he give nod then turned his face to projector. The way he did that was slow and smooth, it as if like watching mannequin that moved by puppeteer
All Genins who know about this also try to not paid attention to him. Even Kiba who doesn't know feel there something off as Akamaru whined and whimpering under his hood, telling his master to stay away from Haru for moment, and Kiba did, if there one thing he trust, it is Akamaru sense of danger
The atmosphere and tension in the hall now turned to high. There no any sign that people or relax anymore like before. All of them noted that many Genins start to look to each other, each of them giving wary and defensive look to their future enemies.
'Calm yourself Haru! Do not let rage control you! Stay low. Remember. Stay low. Stay. LOW!' Haru hissed to himself, despite he knew this will happen but his stomach filled with nothing but anger now
That was bad thing seeing right now he already pulling attention... If he fight in this state he will snap and big chance his enemy will be dead, even if it was fellow Konoha ninja
And if he did that, he will make Hiruzen more suspicious and make him to be watched further, add the fact the old man before just blatantly intervened. No. He can't have that, he really need to be subtle now, he already attract quite attention
Easy to say it though...
The projector start to random the names again, all the Genins who watching mostly held their breath, waiting for the machine to set their fate and who they will fight
DING!
Kiba Inuzuka
VS
Gaara
Haru inwardly blanched, of all fight that come... He notice that Kiba become pale, Akamaru squirming under his hood clearly in fear
"Proctor! I give up!" Kiba declared in instant and Haru can understand that. The boy had see how brutal Gaara is and any normal person will be afraid after seeing the slaughter he just did in forest
Hayate quirked his eyebrow at this, but he promptly nodded "Very well, the winner of the sixth match by default is Gaara." He declared
The red haired boy who hearing that appear to be didn't care. He only stare at Kiba for moment before turned away, he then seems mutter something to his teammate before he turned and walk away. It seems he has lost interest since he won't be fighting
Inwardly, Haru let out breath of relief. With Gaara out from his way, then he not need to worry anymore. Not like he arrogance or what, but right now only two people who capable to beat him, and they also mostly only have one chance
The first is Kankurou, while Haru confident he can win and knew about him but there his puppet that dangerous. Having poison and if he got hit just once it will be fatal, if there one thing that Suna famous is, it is their poison user, Konoha was lucky to have Tsunade during Shinobi War, had they not, Suna will be the one who victorious in war
The second is Rock Lee. Haru, himself aware despite he stronger than the spandex Genin, the taijutsu user is far superior than him in close range aspect. If he facing him, Haru won't be a fool who fighting hand to hand, he will use Ninjutsu mixed with Genjutsu. Though some part of him wish to test himself against Lee, but he not willing to risk to not becoming Chūnin. Add the fact Lee can open Five of Eight Celestial Gate...
DING!
Haru
VS
Shino Aburame
'Oh shit...' Naruto thought with grimace at the match
Haru face set into small grin, well it been a while since he spar with Shino. The last time they figthing is before they turned to Genin and that was three months ago, he still remember the last time they fight, it was quite match actually
It also won't be too bad seeing he also going to able blow some steam, judging by Shino body that shiftened for moment it seems the Aburame also thought the same
Both of them share glance to each other, there silent message the moment their face meet before they nodded. They use the stairs and walk down plainly to the arena without saying any words
Sakura notice Naruto discomfort, the blonde guy eyes roamed to Shino and Haru before turn to the entire hall, it as if he looking for place to hide
"Naruto... You okay?" Sakura asked in concern
"A-Ah?" Naruto turned to her as he snapped from his momentary stupor "Y-Yeah! I-It just..." He grimaced again "Little nervous ya know." He grinnd sheepishly
"Nervous?"
"Well..." Naruto turned his eyes again to the arena where Haru and Shino facing each other "There reason why Haru and Shino not often spar, ttebayo." He shudder slightly as recalling the memory "You know about Aburame clan right Sakura-chan?"
"Yeah... They known as clan that make pact with bugs..." Sakura nodded, she shudder slightly at the bugs part
"Yep..." Naruto nodded back "Shino while can fight in close range but he more proficient from long or use his bugs and..." He gulped slightly "Let just say Haru really take extreme measure when dealing with them..."
While Sakura still look confused, Backup Team sharing each other knowing glance. While Haru not specialist in Ninjutsu but the boy knew quite many actually and he also proficient in Fire elemental, especially Genma who remember when their fight set training ground forest into ash
"He going to destroy everything aren't he?" Genma mutter dryly, knowing where the conversation goes
"This tower strong right?" Naruto asked, tone filled with real fear "I-I mean, it can handle my enemy strong wind attack so..."
"Don't worry, even if giant snake slammed to this tower, it still going to stand." Genma reassured
"Is it really that bad?" Kurenai asked
"Training ground 38..." Genma plainly said
Kurenai eyes bulged slightly, jaw set open as she give look of disbelief to him "You mean it caused by him?"
"Well... There part of mine too, but mostly it him."
Kurenai stared at Haru with new light
"I must say, I never thought I will fight you in here." Haru said while chuckled a bit, there no sign that he angry anymore, it as if what happen few minutes ago never exist
"Indeed Haru... I, surprised as well. Why? Because there eleven fight, the chance you and I will fight is less than ten percent." Shino answered with nod
"Agree." Haru nodded, amusement clear in his face "So... Shall we wreck this place?"
Shino eyebrow. Raise slightly, he adjust his sunglasses "Indeed... It... Been a while since I face enemy like you. Make no mistake, if I go down, it won't be easy." He raise both his hands, arms extended in preparation manner
Then, sounds of buzzing and whizzing echoed in the hall. At first it barely able to heard, the one who doesn't know only shrug it off, but soon it become clear, very clear as it now loud enough
And then a black tiny creature crawling out from Shino sleeves, it only one, but soon the numbers increase, two, three, twenty, hundred, until it become countless. The pack of insect joined, gathering together as if they are pack of sheep that lead by shepherd
"I didn't said begin, yet." Hayate said as he glanced at Shino
"Its okay proctor. I don't mind." Haru defended as his eyes roaming to insects that buzzing threateningly in air. He raise hand, tightened the grip of his forehead protector before slid his hands to his pockets "I'm ready..."
"So do I..."
Hayate glanced at the two Genin, hand still raising before he nodded "The seventh match, Haru versus Shino Aburame. Begin!"
Oh yeaah! Another chapter coming up! Mann, this is quite fast huh? Never thought I will able to write this fast again, it been a while since I updated a chapter less than week
And yepp! As you can see, Hinata have her own version of fighting in here! And if you catch some Fate/Stay Night reference, yes! I give Hinata Snake style fight that similar like Souichirou Kuzuki!
I already think it very clear, while many fanfiction give Hinata water elemental jutsu or poison user due to her flexibility, but most of them never give her the real fighting style. When I see episode where Hinata dancing in waterfall I instantly got idea, Hinata flexibility can be used for her fighting style and viola! You got the result
And before you protest, please note that Hinata not stronger than Neji. She able to win, yes but because elemental of surprise. However, Neji called genius is not for nothing, in here you see the moment he able to regain his composure in instant he can bring Hinata down, add the fact he just in time able to control his Chakra and repel her Juuken
Neji is genius, there no any exaggeration about that, Hinata can't totally beat him, the bridge between them while shortened but it still quite far. Neji able to create Kaiten just by merely observing with his own perception, without anyone tutoring him, and he also capable to perform Hakke Hyaku Nijūhachi Shō (Eight Trigrams One Hundred Twenty-Eight Palms) at his young age
By any mean, he is anything but Genin. The only reason he not become Chūnin from exam is probably because Kishimoto doesn't want make him into one since he at that time still categorized as "bad guy", going to make fans angry if he did that
And yes, Kiba giving up. What? You expect he going to fight Gaara after what he just see? Kiba is not an idiot, he knew if he outmatched and Gaara clearly scare the hell out of him, even Shino will be give up as well if he fight him
If you all wish to know there changes in Shino, Hinata, Naruto and Sasuke fighting style. You all already see Hinata in here, Shino probably will be shown next while Naruto and Sasuke would be later when Final Exam occur
Anyway! Next chapter will be Haru fight against Shino and probably end of the Prelminary Exam! I notice it seems I take this match quite long, I probably going to stick few fight with the Canon one
By the way, I was thinking to write Harry Potter fanfic. It won't be serious fic seeing I don't have much knowledge about HPverse, a little crack perhaps but with plot of course!
The story inspired by Negima, Harry will be genius that become Professor at young age. Yes, he going to teach at Hogwart! And since it inspired by Negima, probably will be crossed with them a little. Harry will be strong, but most Wizards also going to get upgraded as well. We rarely seen battle that could wrecking town and destroy village done by one on one or such things in HPverse and I intent to write one. Of course it will be AU seeing we have small crossover! Harry in here also one year older than his generation
This is small trailer about this story, and yes! This can be comprehend as challenge! If you wish to take the idea you can use it! Just ask me first since I will monitor you to read the story!
Harry Potter, The Genius Wizard (A better title perhaps?)
Hermione Granger held back sigh as she sit in the Great Hall of Hogwart for welcoming feast. Truthfully she don't know either she should be happy or not to be back at Hogwarts
Bully... For a year, the moment she enter Hogwart, she has been bullied. She don't know what is wrong, but for some reason she don't have friends, an acquaintance? Yes, but friend? No.
Okay, she maybe knew why, perhaps it because she quite smart and always answering most of the question that teacher give. Add the fact she quite strict to follow the rule that set. But surely people understand like? It not like she really crazy about law, it just she feel comfortable with it, when people live under law it mean everyone is seen as equal
And about the answering question, she love book, really, really love it. She knew the question, so why not answer it? Add the fact it also give bonus point to their House!
Well, apparently people think otherwise
Thanks for that, she known as a girl who know-it-all and bookworm. Her status as Muggleborn also not helping, people like Draco Malfoy and most Slytherin always nagging her. And there that prat, Ron Weasley. To be honest that man is just light version of Draco Malfoy, Hermione will said Ron is Gryffindor version of Draco precisely
Okay, maybe Ron not that bad, but still it bad. He quite prat, always make comment to her, she wonder why she trying to help him in first year. If she know it will be like this, she won't bother too. And while Ron is not that bad, but he can become worse than Malfoy sometime
The girls around her age... Rather than talking about studies they all more like talk about boys. Seriously, what so interested about them? They are still twelve for God sake! And there matter of four trolls that somehow able to enter the school! And she with one in bathroom!
God, how she lucky Headmaster Dumbledore were in there just in time to handle the troll. Had he late in few seconds, she will be nothing but mass of blood in wall due to smashed by the troll
Remembering that she still shudder
On one hand, she love Hogwart. She love Magical World precisely. The things that exist in the Magical World is simply irresistible! There so many things, so many knowledge that Magical World have, and they all are more interesting than mundane World
Magical World maybe more... Backward in technology aspect, but they more various. You only meet Human in mundane World but in Magical, there such thing as Goblin, Half-Giant, or other things. She love how Magical World history, she love to reading spell books and trying to master every new spell she came across
She just spend a year in this World and there so many things she still wish to see, if she leave from Magical World, according to law she will have her wand snapped and her magic sealed, then her memories erased
To forget such wonderful World, what kind of idiot wish for that?
No... She only been in here for year, she not going to leave, she won't give up that fast. There will be something different happen, something that make people change and she can enjoy to live in Magical World. There must be!
Though, judging by how this year she sit alone in corner it probably going to same, with bullying and else. She just hope and pray this year won't be though
She briefly roaming her eyes around. She notice everyone eat in quite slow pace since they all chatting and talking to each other, she smile bitterly at this, she quite envy at them to having friend, despite she being surrounded but she can't feels to help she like alone in this table
It was then she notice it, in corner of the wall above, there single raven up there. The raven size is uncommon, it was quite big for normal one. Normal adult raven size commonly is between 54 to 63 centimeters, this one probably 70 to 80, it looks more like eagle rather than raven. The bird leering down at the hall, it head cocked slowly like machine to all direction, each tables of Hogwarts house
Hermione wondered what that bird doing in here and why no one notice it until now. She then briefly glanced to professors table and noted there Gilderoy Lockhart, according to Daily Prophet he will be the one who teach Defense against the Dark Art this years
Last year there rumor that Professor Quirell possessed by spirit or such things, the man gone before the First Year done so Headmaster himself teach them in DADA for a months. Hermione not too care though, the man teaching was awful, though she will feel sorry if something happen to him
Truthfully Hermione found Lockhart book quite amusing, the story about him facing against Banshee is one of her favorites. Not just the man is good looking but he also seems proficient in Dark Art, this one will be doing good job! And probably handle school safety more better!
She broke out from her fantasy, when she remember about safety. She instantly began to wonder about the raven. Yes, she probably the only one who notice because she not chatting with anyone but what about the professors?
As if sensing it being watched, the raven turned to her direction, and for moment she swear the raven looking at her directly rather than her table. It cocked it head slightly to one side in confusion manner, and Hermione realize the bird really staring at her, it dark eyes peering down at her, like an abyss that look to someone
Hermione shuddered, that was not normal animal behavior. Raven symbolized as sadness, loss and even death on some occasion. That wasn't good things, after entering Magical World she won't shrug legend or myth anymore, there must be reason at least why the dark bird symbolized like that
And she didn't intent to find out, not when it related to her
She about to call someone near her, close or not be damned, she have reason to be paranoid after got bullied in her last year.
"Good evening..." Albus Dumbledore voice echoed in jovial tone make Hermione blinked
The bushy haired girl glanced to her surrounding and finally notice everyone has done eating. She surprised, was she observing the raven that long?
Albus smiled at the children of Hogwarts that paid attention to him, his eyes twinkling in jovial as he stare back at them "I would like to welcome you all to another year at Hogwarts!" The aging wizards voice boomed across the hall. "And I would like to welcome those who are just starting to their first year here! I hope that all of you will come to enjoy the wonders and mysteries this school has to offer, and to those who are coming back, I hope that the summer has emptied your head's properly so that it may be filled with more knowledge!"
A small chorus of groans erupted from a few people at the mention of learning more. In particular, the Weasley twins. They were being far more loud in their voiced displeasure about gaining knowledge than anyone else.
Hermione only can shook her head in minor bemusement. Why some people wouldn't want to learn magic was beyond her, doesn't they know how exciting to learn Magic is?
"Before we begin the start-of-term feast, I would like to thank Mister Gilderoy Lockhart for agreeing to take up the position as Professor for Defense Against the Dark Arts!"
At his words, Lockhart stood up and gave everyone a gentle wave, a grin, and a wink. A good number of people clapped, mostly muggleborns and female's, Hermione also one one of them, though she did it slowly, her eyes briefly wandering to corner and...
The raven still staring at her!
Now she really, really scared
"However..." Albus voice cut the cheers, silencing them once again "Due to some circumstance, Professor Lockhart will only teach the Fourth Year and above." He paused, letting it sunk down and watching all students reaction, most young female students let out moan of disappointment "Make no mistake though, the one who will teach First to Third year is quite experienced.." He then staring at the corner of wall, eyes focused to the dark bird for moment before he nodded "He quite late since he traveling around the school, however he will arrive..." His eyes twinkling and focused to the Great Hall door "Now."
As if being called, the Great Hall massive door opened, every students leaned to the door direction, wishing to see their new teacher appearance
Not much they can't see though
The figure clad in black colored hooded cape that hide most of it appearance, the cape itself loosened quite a bit and cover any trace of it being male or female. The black cape quite elegance, there mixture of yellow gold that wrapped around few of it parts; around the wrist, ankle and lower part. It height wasn't tall, it only around 5,3 feet, enough to categorize it as short for someone called professor
The figure walk in Hall, there no stiff movement on the way he walk, his breath also shallow, and calm, there no sound in fact come from it. And not just from breath, the way he walk, everyone noted is light, very light and near soundless
A loud caw echoed in hall, gathering everyone attention as they briefly turned their gaze to the dark bird who flap it wings, making it look larger before it dive down, it wing soar in air. Everyone eyes following it and soon it stopped on their new professor that stand in front of professor table, the bird landed on it shoulder
Albus eyes twinkling further, kind smile adorn his face "You quite late."
The figure smiled a bit under it hood, only able to seen by other professors "I'm sorry..." It voice held masculine, yet at same time quite high pitched, it almost like voice of child "But I got lost in the way back when I done visiting Hagrid, thankfully there Morrigan here." He extend one hand and the raven slowly walk to it, the bird let out small caw as if saying 'You bet I am!' To him "That allow me to knew the direction by detecting her..."
"Ah, yes, I understand, Hagrid have quite wonderful tea and pleasant company but he live quite far from here." Albus nodded in understanding before he stare at the raven "Morrigan, how is it? Do you enjoy Hogwarts so far?" He asked
The raven titled her head, then she let out small caw as if agreeing with the headmaster who smiled jovially at the positive response
"Everyone... Meet your new Professor in Defense Against the Dark Art..." Albus resumed, his eyes roamed to the hall once again as the new professor turned to them.
He raise his hand, gripped to the hood before pulling it, letting people see his appearance and they all gasped. The professor, is young, he not even pass his teenager in fact. Wild black hair that like the crow on his left hand, green emerald eyes that resemble color of Killing Curuse under his glasses. He give everyone gentleman smile, if Lockhart smile is charming, this one smile is resemble a child that smile to someone, an innocent smile
"Professor Harry James Potter." Albus finished, all while smiling widely
"Good evening everyone." Harry greeted warmly "My name Harry James Potter, this is Morrigan my familiar." He gestured to the raven before bowed his head slightly "Please take care of us well, I really look forward to teaching you."
Then the hall broke into uproar