The Rave Master Naruto; first NaruHina kiss is coming really soon...
Boy, the Chunin Exam/Invasion storyline went much longer than planned; around twenty chapters or so. From now on, I shall endeavor to keep each arc to around six to eight chapters at maximum. Not sure if I'll be able to do this, but I'm gonna try to do it. And now, let's begin the Tsunade arc...
Rave Master Naruto
Rave 35: The Exiled Returns
Kabuto walked down the hall of the darkened hide out as he approached Orochimaru's private chambers. On top of the invasion technically failing, they had lost all three of the their Sound Genin and plenty of Sound nin, and they had lost four of their five Dark Bring.
Luckily, the most important one was still in their posession.
Arriving at the door, Kabuto reached out and grasped the handle and opened it up; walking inside into the nearly pitch black room that was lightly bathed in candle light. And on the far side of the room, he could see Orochimaru sitting in his chair, sweating badly as a look of sheer pain was present on his face.
"Boy, don't you look pitiful, my lord" said Kabuto as he walked forward.
Orochimaru's head shot up to look at him, his eyes glaring dangerously at him. "Kabuto, did you come in here just to get a cheap laugh for yourself?" asked Orochimaru in a dangerous tone.
Kabuto raises a hand in his defense and says "Of course not, I was just merely stating a fact is all."
"Well, keep your facts to yourself if you value your life" said Orochimaru.
'As if you're in any condition to be a threat to me right now' thought Kabuto as he looked around the room, seeing some of Orochimaru's favorite specimen's littered around in little jars; including the charred remains of Zaion's right arm with an Akatsuki ring on it. The only surviving piece of Zaion's body that was still left in this world.
"It's a shame we couldn't destroy the whole village as you had hoped for. But, at least we did do a fairly good job in crippling them, killing the Third Hokage, and putting the Hidden Sand village into a weakened and vulnerable position" said Kabuto, attempting to be more positive.
"And all it cost me was my arms and my jutsu" said Orochimaru.
"Something I'm sure you can overcome in time" said Kabuto.
"I do have an idea or two. But I doubt you came here just to talk about this" said Orochimaru.
"You're correct. I had a feeling you would like to see something that should make your day a little brighter" said Kabuto as he reached into his pocket and pulled out a diamond shaped stone and held it out before Orochimaru, who's eyes went wide with excitement.
"So, you didn't leave Succubus behind after all. Have you figured out the total yet?" asked Orochimaru.
"Of course I have. Though it would have been a great deal more if thing's had gone better for us in the village, I have estimated that this will add around 469 years to your life at present" said Kabuto.
"Heh, this more than makes up for Asuki abaddoning me back there" said Orochimaru as he recalled the day he had been given this gift.
(one month before the Chunin Exams began)
Orochimaru had just finished producing the latest Dark Bring through the Enclaim; a stone shaped into the form of a musical note that he was gonna intrust to Kin as soon as she returned from her mission. As he entered into his private chamber's, he immediately became aware of the other presence in there beside himself.
"Asuki, to what do I the pleasure of your precense again?" asked Orochimaru.
Asuki was sitting in Orochimaru's chair, sitting back and seemingly enjoying himself. He sits forwards and says "I see you've been busy with creating DB. It would seem that teaching you the Enclaim has served you well."
"And I owe you a great debt for this knowledge as well. But still, why have you come here? Have you another secret to teach me about?" asked Orochimaru.
"I always have a secret to be revealed. But for this visit, I have a special gift for you I made with my own hands" said Asuki as he stood up and walked over to Orochimaru.
The fallen Leaf ninja sees Asuki extend his hand, which was holding something in it, and reaches out and allows the object to be placed into his own hand. As Orochimaru examines the object that was shaped like a diamond, his curiosity about it began to grow.
"I can tell this is a Dark Bring, but what does it do?" asked Orochimaru.
Smiling beneath his hood, Asuki says "Oh, you're gonna love this one. You see, I am well aware of your quest to obtain immortality and with this Dark Bring; Succubus, you will be brought as close as you could ever possibly imagine."
Orochimaru looks at him in shock and says "This Dark Bring...will make me immortal?"
Asuki shakes his head and says "Not exactly. As its name suggest, Succubus can suck in life energy and store it inside for your personal use."
"Explain" says Orochimaru in a demanding tone.
"As you know, each and everyone of us has a limit to just how long we can live in this world. However, if a person dies prematurely in life, their remaining life force would normally bleed off of a person's body and become one with nature" said Asuki.
"However, if Succubus is within a four mile radius of a person who died prematurely and has been activated, then it will suck up that person's remaining life energy and stores it inside. And in this act, what ever time the dead person had left will be just how much is added to another person's life when the Succubus is placed within your heart. And the more life energy that is stored inside, then the longer one can live" said Asuki.
"Remarkable" said Orochimaru as he looked at it in wonder.
"Oh, but it gets even better. You can enter and remove it from your heart at will to recharge it as needed. And seeing as you body jump and I'm sure you know the down side to this, you shall be happy to know that as long as Succubus is inside you, you shall find your current host body will not reject your soul. A perfect fit for when you get that special body you have your eyes on" said Asuki.
"Indeed it will, indeed it will" said Orochimaru as an infinite number of options and possibilities crossed through his mind.
"In time, you shall finally get Sasuke Uchiha's body as your own. And thanks to the power of Succubus, you will not only be able to keep living forever if you wish, but you shall be able to do so with Sasuke's body as well" said Kabuto.
"Despite this minor set back, things are still going better than I had hoped. And once I figure out how to deal with this minor detail, I will be able to move forward with my plans" says Orochimaru as he starts laughing.
(Hidden Leaf Village)
"Oh baby, show big daddy Jiraiya all you have to show him" said Jiraiya in a very perverted manner as he spied through his telescope at the villages hot springs.
"So, we can see you haven't changer from your reprehensible behavior" came a voice from behind Jiraiya.
Jiraiya groaned as he turned around and said "I've told you both before that it's part of my research." He the gets to his feet and looks at the two elder figures before him before saying "So, do what do I owe the pleasure of being visited by the Hokage's chief advisers and former genin teammates; old man Homura and mistress Koharu?"
"I would think it would be obvious" said Homura.
Jiraiya scratches his chin and says "Well, I heard talks with the Sand went well, especially the discovery that Orochimaru had killed the Kazekage and had taken his place; thus leading to the tragedy of the Chunin Exams."
"The Sand situation has been dealt with, but it is a mute point as of now. Our immediate concern is in the status of the village. Do to the attack, we lost many good shinobi and our power has been dropped to frightfully low levels. As such, our first priority is to prepare for any and all possible crises that could occur in the immediate future" said Homura.
"We can not be sure if any of the other villages could make a move to attack in our moment of weakness. The Stone and Cloud are an especially dangerous possibility in this. It is because of this that we have taken the best shinobi in the village and have formed an emergency executive council to help oversee the most important matters that need dealing with. But before any of that..." said Koharu.
"We shall need a strong and trustworthy leader. In the present world, there are several dangerous and mysterious groups out there. Orochimaru isn't the only concern of ours" continued Koharu.
"Above all else, there is one truth we can not ignore for even a second. And that is this; we need to select a Fifth Hokage at once" said Homura as he looked at Jiraiya.
Jiraiya remained quiet, but his expression was more serious than he had ever given anyone before.
"As of yesterday, we had an emergency meeting with our lands ruling lord and it was decided that the title of Fifth Hokage would be given...to you, Jiraiya" said Koharu.
Jiraiya's face shifts into a scowl as he raises a hand and says "Sorry, but I must decline that offer. Surely you guys know I am not Hokage material."
"The decision has already been made. Besides, who better than you, a shinobi who has been given the rank of Sanin and is known as one of the greatest shinobi our village has ever produced. Plus, you were the mentor of the Fourth Hokage and that says a lot about your ability" said Homura.
"I still say you guys are making a mistake. But, there is another possibility. Have you two forgotten about...Tsunade?" asked Jiraiya.
Koharu thinks on this, then says "There's no question she has both the brains, the power, and the pedigree to be a worthy Hokage. But, no one knows her current whereabouts."
"I'll find her, I can guarantee it. And if I can get her to come back, she can become Hokage. Will that be acceptable?" said Jiraiya.
Homura and Koharu look at one another, then back at Jiraiya and Homura says "Very well, but only on two conditions. One is that if he fail to find her with in the month or you do find her and she can't be convinced to return, then you shall return and assume the title of Hokage."
"Very well, I shall agree to that. But why only a month? Is the need that great for a Fifth?" asked Jiraiya.
Koharu shakes her head and says "If it were only that. Danzo made a claim for the Hokage position. And our Lord said that if a Fifth couldn't be activated for the village in 30 days, then Danzo would be given the position. And I'm sure you know how dangerous such a thing could be for us."
Jiraiya nods and says "Understood, so what is the second request?"
"We would like to assign three member's of the Anbu Black ops to go with you to help in the search" said Homura.
"That won't be necessary. I won't make a run for it, I can assure you seeing as I don't want to see Danzo in charge. However, I would like permission to take a certain genin with me. A genin who has the potential to surpass the Fourth himself" said Jiraiya.
"Very well, you may do as you like. But remember, you have less than a month to return" said Homura as he and Koharu turned around and left.
As Jiraiya looked over the village, he smiled at the fun he was gonna have this day. Now, were to find Naruto?
(outside the village)
The two gate guards kept their eyes focused on the area before them as the forest was covered in a thick fog. Since the attack had ended, tension had been at an all time high and fear of another sudden attack was a very real thing for them.
Just then, two figures appeared through the fog, walking slowly towards the village. They were wearing odd black cloaks with red cloud patterns across them and even stranger straw hats that looked like bowls with bells hanging off of them.
"Excuse me, who are you? State your business here?" said one of the two guards.
The smaller of the two figures lifts his straw hat just enough to reveal his eye and looks at the guard in the eye. With in seconds, the guard collapses to the ground unconscious. Before the second guard can even react, he too finds his eyes meeting the eye of the smaller figure; knocking him out as well.
With the two guards momentarily disabled, the two figures continue forward; entering into the village to begin their mysterious mission.
RMN
Naruto took a seat at Ichiraku's with Plue setting next to him on the counter. Ayame walked up and gave them a smile as she placed two freshly cooked bowls of Miso Ramen before them. Naruto licked his lips excitedly as he broke his chop sticks apart as did Plue.
"Oh man, I can't remember the last time I had ramen. This is gonna taste great" said Naruto as he took in his first mouth full of the yummy treat.
"Puun" said Plue in agreement as he did the same.
"Well, so the rumors are true. You really are a ramen freak" said Jiraiya as he walked into the shop.
Naruto looked back, eyes wide as he said "Ervy Age?" with his mouth full of ramen.
"Swallow before speaking, kid. Surely even you should know that rule" said Jiraiya as he took a seat beside Naruto and patted Plue on the head. And how's Sir Plue doing today?"
"Puun" said Plue happily before taking another slurp of ramen into his mouth.
After swallowing his ramen, Naruto looks at Jiraiya and says "What are you doing here? I would have thought you'd be hanging around the hot springs."
"Actually Naruto, I came to talk to you" said Jiraiya.
"About what?" asked Naruto, giving Jiraiya his full attention, though he still took a moment to suck up some more ramen.
"Well, as you know, the last week has seen the village fall into some hard times. And as such, the two adviser's to Sarutobi approached me and asked me to step up as the 5th Hokage" said Jiraiya.
Naruto gags as he chokes up his food. After Ayame gives him a glass of water, which he quickly chugs down, he looks at Jiraiya with a shocked expression and says "You're kidding me! They asked YOU to be Hokage?"
"Yeah, what's that suppose to mean, brat?" asked Jiraiya, feeling insulted.
"Like you don't know. A super pervert like you as Hokage? I'd bet your first decree would be that all women pass the age of twelve would be required to wear only string bikini's at all times" said Naruto.
Jiraiya grins sheepishly as he says "You know, I never thought about that. Maybe I should reconsider this Hokage business."
"Like hell you will. There's no way I'd...wait, reconsider? You mean you turned them down?" asked Naruto, not noticing Ayame's relief at hearing that.
"Yeah, I know I'm not Hokage material. That's why I offered them an alternative to me with Tsunade" said Jiraiya.
"Tsunade Senju? I think I can see where this is going" said Teuchi.
"What do you mean, old man Ichiraku?" asked Naruto.
"This is why I'm here, Naruto. I wanted to ask you if you'd be interested in coming with me to find Tsunade and convince her to come back. We would have only one month though to do this in, otherwise I would either have to step up as Hokage or allow a man named Danzo to become Hokage, which would be bad for the village" said Jiraiya.
"Who's Danzo?" asked Naruto.
"He's a dangerous man who would send this village spiraling into a more war obsessed era. He's not someone we would want as Hokage" said Teuchi.
"That's a nice way to describe him. So, what do you say, Naruto?" asked Jiraiya.
Naruto looks away and says "I don't know. On the one hand, it sounds like it would be fun. But on the other, there are things that need to be done here. And I have to keep training too."
"Well, as far as your training goes, I could help you as we search for Tsunade. There's a really special jutsu I think would be perfect for you if you want to learn it" said Jiraiya.
"Really?" asked Naruto.
"Of course. And also, Tsunade would bring more than just become Hokage back to the village. She is also one of the best medical ninja in the whole shinobi world, if not THE best medical ninja" said Jiraiya.
"She's the best, huh?" said Naruto as he became quiet; lost in thought. He then looks at Jiraiya and asked "Could she help a person who's had an arm and a leg badly crushed?"
"I can tell you this much. If Tsunade can't help this person, then no one can" said Jiraiya.
"What about a person who has suffered a terrible throat injury that makes it hard to talk, eat, or breath?" asked Naruto.
"As I said before, if Tsunade can't do it, then no one can" said Jiraiya again, thinking that Naruto was thinking on friends of his that had been hurt in the recent invasion.
Naruto remains quiet for another minute, then says "OK, I'll come along with you. Both because I want to lean this new jutsu from you and mainly because I want to speak to this Tsunade myself."
Jiraiya smiles at him as he gets up and goes to leave, stopping long enough to say "OK then, then go and get ready to leave. I will meet you at the main gate at 1 in the afternoon. That'll give you enough time to get ready for this trip that will likely take several weeks and for me to dig up a photo of Tsunade."
"Don't you already have one of her?" asked Naruto.
"Well, I do have a couple...but..." said Jiraiya as he scratches his chin and chuckles nervously.
Naruto grins and says "I get it. These are photos that are not appropriate for viewing by some one of my age and if she found out you had them, she'd kill you."
"That's he least I's have to worry about it. Oh, another thing. If you want to, you can ask your team if they would like to come along as well. After all, the more of us going, the better our chances of finding Tsunade" said Jiraiya.
"Gotcha" said Naruto.
"And one final thing, I would like for you and anyone else who comes along to go buy some new civilian clothes before we leave" said Jiraiya.
"How come? And why would we need to buy new? We already have some civilian clothes for wearing around the village" said Naruto.
"Well, let's just say Tsunade doesn't have fond memories of the village due to some tragedies she suffered in her younger years. It will make things easier in finding her if she doesn't learn there are Leaf nin in town. I'm safe because I'm technically not a Leaf nin anymore either, thus she's less likely to run from me. And as for buying new? Well, I have a feeling all your current civilian clothes still have some kind of Leaf village symbol on them, right?" asked Jiraiya.
Naruto realized he was correct about that. "OK, I'll go get ready, get some new threads, and meet you at one on the dot by the main gate."
Jiraiya nods, then leaves. Naruto goes back to eating his ramen for the moment as he thinks on what he's gonna buy for his new look.
(elsewhere in the village)
Kakashi was standing outside a local shop well known for it's tea and sweats. He couldn't help but notice the two unusual figures that were inside, having a meal. It was obvious that they weren't from around here. But, he decided to leave them be as he had other matters to attend to.
Looking off to the side, he grins as he sees Kurenai and Asuma walking towards him. Straightening up from hie leaning on the door, he says "Well, look at you two. Are we out on a date?"
"A date!" squeaks Kurenai as her cheeks flare red.
Asuma shakes his head and says "No, Kurenai just needed some help with getting a few things and asked me if I could lend a hand."
"Right?" said Kakashi, not believing them. He wondered why they still felt the need to keep it a secret seeing as everyone already knew about them...and about Asuma's sneaking away from Kurenai's home in the early hours of the morning at least three times a week.
"What about you, Kakashi? I thought you hated sweets, so why be hanging around here?" asked Kurenai.
"Well, I needed to get something to put on a grave and I'm..." said Kakashi, who then averted his eyes just enough to peek inside the building. Both Asuma and Kurenai caught this and followed his gaze as he said "...waiting on Sasuke."
Immediately, the smaller of the two figures came to a stop with sipping his tea for just a split second, but it was enough to catch their attention. Just as they were about to step inside and investigate, the sound of foot steps was heard, which brought their attention to looking away from the two seated figures.
"Kakashi, I thought you were going to meet me over in the training grounds" said Sasuke as he came to a stop.
Inside, the smaller figure turned his head just enough to look at the young Genin, then back to his partner and made a motion with his head.
"Sorry about that, I needed to go pick up some flowers to place on the memorial stone" said Kakashi.
"Understood, but let's hurry it up. You said you'd help me improve my Chidori attack today" said Sasuke.
"Alright, let's get going then" said Kakashi as he took one last look inside the shop and saw the two figures had vanished. He looked at Kurenai and Asuma, who nodded at him before disappearing in a swirl of leaves and smoke.
"Is something wrong?" asked Sasuke, sensing that something was afoot.
"Nothing for you to worry about. Now, let's get to training" said Kakashi as he and Sasuke began their walk to the training grounds.
(Naruto and Plue)
"Yum, best ramen I ever had" said Naruto contently as he patted his stomach.
"Puun" agreed Plue as he patted his as well.
"Well Naruto, I guess we'll be seeing you in a couple of weeks" said Ayame.
"I'll be back for a lunch ramen before I go" said Naruto as he got up.
"OK kid. Hey, would you like to be the first to try out my new ramen special?" asked Teuchi.
"Sure thing, pops. I'll be back around noon or so so have it ready for me" said Naruto as Plue jumped onto his head.
"Hey Naruto, when you see Haku, tell him...I love him" said Ayame as she blushed.
"Sure, no problem" said Naruto, groaning at having to do that.
After exiting from Ichiraku's, Naruto began to walk back towards home. But, no sooner did he make a turn than did he see Hinata, Tenten, and Haku coming towards him.
"Hey Naruto, we were looking for you" shouts Tenten as they run up to meet him.
"What for?" asked Naruto.
"We were thinking of having a group training exercise this morning" said Haku.
"That sounds like fun, but something's come up. In fact, I'm glad I found you all so quickly because I wanted to tell you guys about it" said Naruto.
"What is it, Naruto?" asked Hinata.
"Before I tell you guys, I better do this before I forget. Haku, I love you" said Naruto, not really thinking about it.
"WHAT!" shouts Tenten while Hinata goes wide eyed in shock and Haku simply blushes.
"That's what Ayame asked me to tell you for her" Naruto adds in a matter of fact way.
Tenten bolts forward and grabs him by the collar and screams "You idiot, next time say THAT first before saying I love you. Damn, I thought you were coming out of the closet or something."
"Huh?" said Naruto as he thinks about it, then blushes madly as it finally sinks in on how that must have sounded when said. "Aw crap, did I really just say that?"
"Damn right you did, idiot" says Tenten as she lets him go.
Hinata breathes a sigh of relief as Haku says "Ayame said that? Well, I guess I'll have to go over there in a bit to say it back to her. But before that, why were you looking for us, Naruto?"
"Oh, right. Anyways, do you guys remember me telling you all about that pervy sage who helped me train for the third round?" asked Naruto.
"You mean, Master Jiraiya?" asked Hinata.
"Yeah, him. Anyways, the villages adviser's asked him to go find this woman who's a former Leaf nin and a master of medical ninjutsu and see if he can bring her back to help out. And he asked me to come with him and help in the search and you guys can come to if you wanted to" said Naruto.
A light bulb pops on in Tenten's head as she ask "And who's this woman you two will be searching for?"
"I think her name was Tsubame? Tsunimi? Oh, that's right, Tsunade."
Before he realizes it, Tenten is in his face, a look of pure joy etched into her features as she says excitedly "Are you serious? Tsunade? As the the legendary Sanin, Medical Ninja, and ultra cool kunoichi, Tsunade?"
Naruto simply nods out of fear, leading Tenten to squeal like a little kid at Christmas at seeing all the present's Santa left for them. As she hops up and down like crazy, Naruto backs away nervously; wondering if he should try to make a run for it.
"Wow, you must be a real big fan of her's, huh Tenten?" asked Haku.
Tenten stops her squealing and jumping around to look at him and says "Of course I'm excited here. Lady Tsunade is my all time, No.1 idol. As far back as I can remember, I have always wanted to be like her; a kunoichi who stands tall and proud with fear in this male dominated world."
Naruto and Haku back away, both thinking the same thing 'Oh god.'
After another few seconds, Naruto ask in a nervous tone "So, does that mean you want to come?"
Tenten was about to respond when she remembers something and says "Aw dammit, I can't. Since the invasion, my family has been busy making new shinobi equipment for the village and my dad asked if I could help out. And I already told him I would."
"Maybe if you told him about this, he'd let you go" said Hinata.
"I know he would, but that wouldn't be fair to him or everyone else in my family. As much as I would like to, I can't. But you better make sure she comes back Naruto, or I'll stick my Silver up where the sun don't shine. Got it?" said Tenten.
Naruto nods quickly as he nervously says "Yes ma'am, I understand completely." He then looks at Haku and asked "What about you, Haku?"
"I'm afraid I must decline as well. I received a message from Zabuza. He wants to meet in Wave to hand over his latest findings on the Dark Bring. So both me and Anko will be leaving for Wave in the morning" said Haku.
Naruto shivers at hearing Anko's name, then says "Boy, I feel sorry for Zabuza; having to be around her again. Well have fun Haku and say high for us when you see him again."
Haku nods as Tenten gets behind Hinata and pushes her forward. "Luckily for you, Naruto. Hinata is still free to come along. Right, Hinata?"
"Well, it it would be OK with you Naruto, I'd like to come and help search for Tsunade" said Hinata.
"Of course you can, Hinata. I was hoping you at least would come" said Naruto.
Hinata blushes at hearing that while Tenten ask "So, what time are you leaving?"
"Pervy sage said by one in the afternoon. Just enough time to get backed for the trip. He also said that me and anyone else going should by some new civilian clothing for the trip so as to not draw attention to the fact we're Leaf ninja" said Naruto.
"Oh yeah, shopping spree time. Haku, you help Naruto out with his preparations. Hinata, your with me girl" said Tenten excitedly as she grabbed onto Hinata and dragged her away.
"Well Naruto, what do we do first?" asked Haku.
"Well, seeing as Tenten is heading back home with Hinata to take care of the packing now, let's go get the shopping done first. After that, there's something I need to do before I leave" said Naruto as he, Haku, and Plue headed off towards the nearest clothing store.
RMN
Fifteen minutes had passed and Haku was the first to walk out of Taro's Fashion Bonanza. He turned back and said "Well, what are you waiting for? Step into the light" to Naruto who came out a few moment's later.
He was now dressed in white shorts that reached down just past his knees, a blue colored sleeveless shirt with a wrapped around turtle neck that reached up to the tip of his nose, white fingerless gloves, and at Haku's insistence, a pair of headphones for added effect and to make Naruto NOT look like Naruto.
"Well how does it feel?" asked Haku.
Naruto looked at each hand, then felt himself before saying "This is way different than my usual style, but I like it."
"Well this is what Mr. Jiraiya was talking about, wasn't it" asked Haku.
"Yeah, your right. Anyone in the village who knows me would likely not recognize me at the first glance. So I guess this is mission success" said Naruto.
"Puun" said Plue, showing his approval.
"So, what now Neku...I mean, Naruto?" said Haku jokingly.
"Well, I think I wanna go back and by that MC (music card) for the phones to listen to that I saw in there. You know, The World Ends With You one" said Naruto.
"Yeah, the music on there does rock" said Haku.
"But beyond that, I guess there's the packing I need to do" said Naruto.
"Oh yeah, the boring bit. I'll help you if you want me to" said Haku.
"That would be great, thanks man. But, could you and Plue go on ahead and I'll meet you guys back home. Like I said earlier, there's something I need to do first" said Naruto.
Haku nods as Plue walks over to stand beside him as Haku said "OK, we'll see you there then."
Naruto nods as he goes back in to get his MC (which is the size of a DS game card that holds twenty six songs per one which also replaced the CD in case you're wondering) and Haku & Plue turned to head off towards home.
"Are you thinking what I'm thinking?" asked Haku.
Plue nods as as Haku says "He's going to check on Kin and let her know about what's going on."
(elsewhere)
The two figures were walking down a path adjacent to a moving stream in the village when they came to a sudden stop and stayed in place. The smaller of the two remained quiet for a second before saying "Just how much longer do you plan on shadowing us for?"
Sudden movement came from the tree line as Asuma and Kurenai appeared behind them. Both figures turned around to look at them as the smaller one said "Asuma, Kurenai, it's been a long time."
This caught both of them by surprised. They knew they were well known in the village. But beyond the village, they were still unknown figures when placed beside shinobi like Kakashi.
"So you know our names. That means you have some connection to this village" said Asuma.
"Friends of yours?" asked the taller of the two figures.
"They were...acquaintances of mine in the past" said the smaller.
"Just who are you?" asked Kurenai.
The smaller figure's response was to reach up with a hand and placed a finger against the tip of his straw hat and tilted it up slightly, revealing his eyes. The sight of them made Asuma and Kurenai freeze in place as the memories of the past came rushing back.
"Itachi..." said Kurenai.
"Uchiha..." finishes Asuma.
"It has been awhile now, hasn't it?" asked Itachi as he removed his hat.
"Why are you here? We thought you were..." said Asuma.
Itachi raises a hand and says "So, the Third told you about that? I see. But you must know that things have changed; I have changed. I am not here to make a report, but to complete an important mission."
"A mission?" asked Kurenai.
"Before we get to that, maybe I should introduce myself to your old friends, Itachi" said the taller figure as he removed his hat as well.
The sharked faced figure gave them a wicked grin and says "In case you don't recognize me my name is Kisame Hoshigaki. It's a pleasure to meet you both and I have high hopes we can become friends."
"Judging from your appearance, I highly doubt that. And we have heard of you, heard of the things you've done that led you to be exiled from the Mist village" said Asuma.
"Why are you here, Itachi?" asked Kurenai, getting a bad feeling about this.
"Hey Itachi, we're really wasting time here. Is it OK if I just kill them so we can get on with our mission?" asked Kisame.
Both Asuma and Kurenai froze as Itachi said "Do as you please, but please try to show some restraint. Your personal style tends to attract unwanted attention."
"No problem" said Kisame as he grinned a sharky grin, gripping the handle of his massive sword and bringing it up into a battle ready stance.
For what felt like an eternity, there was no movement, no sound as the four figures looked at one another. And then, with a sudden and gentle breeze with a single leaf passing between them, Kisame burst forward with insane speed, heading right at Kurenai.
Asuma jumps in the way, bring his two chakra blades out and just barely blocking the attack. However, as strong as Asuma was, he was finding it difficult to keep Kisame's blade from lowering even more and slicing him in half.
Meanwhile, Kurenai jumps back and weaves several quick hand signs before she disappears from sight. 'Genjutsu, huh? I expected as much from you' thinks Itachi as his Sharingan activates again. At that moment, he finds his body being restricted by vines as a large tree grows out of the ground behind him.
'Damn, his strength is...unreal' thinks Asuma as his own strength gives out, allowing Kisame's blade to come crashing down on him. Asuma manages to dodge far enough to the side to avoid a fatal hit, but is still badly cut as the weapon slices into his left arm.
As he backs up, gripping the bloody gash with his right arm, Asuma glares as Kisame who says "Allow me to introduce Samehada. This blade doesn't just cut or slice, but shreds you to ribbons. Now, let's see if you can survive this one." Kisame then charges at Asuma again.
As Asuma dodges each attack, he hopes Kurenai can hurry and deal with Itachi as he could actually use some help. Meanwhile, Kurenai's form emerges from the tree with a kunai in hand and presses it against Itachi's neck.
"Spill it. Why have you turned against us, Itachi?" asked Kurenai.
Itachi looks at her and simply says "Do you really think such a weak genjutsu would work against me?"
Kurenai blinks in surprise as she realizes that Itachi wasn't pinned to the tree. It was her.
(elsewhere)
Naruto stood outside Kin's hospital room. He knocks on the door, then says "Hey Kin, it's me; Naruto. I'm coming in."
Naruto opens the door slowly, stepping in and closing the door behind him. His eyes fall upon Kin's form, who is sitting up from her bed with a happy expression on her face. Obviously, she was happy to see him.
Naruto walks over to her bed and ask "Is it OK if I sit down?"
Kin nods and Naruto sits before her. He then looks her over and finds the hospital gown made her look really cute. His eyes then fell onto her neck, sending a pang of guilt through him at seeing the bandages wrapped around her throat.
"So, are you feeling OK?" asked Naruto.
Kin nods then mouths silent words that Naruto assumes is her wanting to say "Now that you've come to visit."
Naruto looks away and says "Yeah, I'm sorry I haven't been by to see you. But with everything that has been going on in the village, I've been pretty busy."
Kin reaches out and takes his hand into her own and mouths "That's OK."
Naruto smiles at her and says "Thanks."
For a few more seconds, Naruto remains quiet before asking "Kin, is it OK if I...can see the wound?"
Kin hesitates for a second, then nods as she reaches up and removes the bandages. Once they were off, Naruto winced at seeing the horrid and grotesque deformation of the skin. Kin looks away, tears welling up as she feels like crying.
Naruto reaches out and draws her to him, wrapping her into a tight hug as he says "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have asked. But don't worry, I'm here for you and will always be here for you. You're my friend after all."
Kin hugs him tightly as a tear escapes from her eyes. As the hug comes to an end, Naruto says "I do have some news to tell you. I've been told of this amazing medical ninja who is said be a miracle worker. If this is true and if I can convince her to come back, then there's a chance she might be able to heal your throat."
Kin looks at him and mouths "Seriously?"
"Yeah, at least that's what I was told anyways. I'm leaving in a few hours to begin the search. I promise I will bring her back to help you and everyone else who needs help" said Naruto.
Kin give him a big smile as she presses a finger to her throat and manages to say "Ar...to, ank u..." (Naruto, thank you)
"Of course. Well, I better get going. I'll see you when I get back. So behave yourself or I'll punish you with a tickling session" joked Naruto.
Kin gives him a sly smile as she mouths "Promise?"
Naruto laughs as he gets up and leaves the room, stopping long enough to say goodby one more time. Once she was alone, Kin looks out of the window and thinks 'Naruto, you've done so much for me and I...I wish I knew how I could repay you. But I know I will. Someday, somehow.'
(elsewhere)
Sasuke noticed Kakashi had come to a stop and he stopped as well and asked "Is there a problem?"
"I just realized there was something back at my place that can help improve your Chidori a great deal. You go on ahead to the training ground and get warmed up. I'll catch up after I get the item" said Kakashi before he disappeared in a puff of smoke.
"Liar" said Sasuke as he continued on. It was obvious that Kakashi hadn't realized that he had also noticed the odd feeling in the air. And he would ask about it later when Kakashi shows up again.
RMN
"OK Hinata, how about this one?" asked Tenten as she handed her friend a new outfit from the opening above the door.
"Um...Tenten, isn't the skirt a little short? It looks like it ends right were my butt ends and the shirt is...I can tell it's gonna be to tight on me" said Hinata.
"Oh come on girl. Don't you wanna give Naruto a little T and A showing for the road" joked Tenten, knowing Hinata was blushing like crazy from that comment.
"Please find something else" asked Hinata as she handed the clothes back over the door.
"Alright" sighed Tenten as she took the items and went back to looking. She knew she had to stop joking around and actually help Hinata find something. But it was so much fun.
"Hey Hinata, have you told Naruto yet, by any chance?" asked Tenten as she rummaged through the racks.
Hinata was quiet for a moment before she said "No, I haven't. Things have been to...gloomy for that. But...I'm gonna tell him while we're traveling with Master Jiraiya."
Tenten stops and looks back at the dressing room and says "Seriously? You're actually gonna tell him?"
"Yeah, I'm tired of holding it in. I want...I want to tell Naruto how I really feel and I want...to do other things as well" said Hinata.
"Other things, huh? You sure you don't want that T and A outfit?" asked Tenten.
"NO" shouts Hinata.
"I'm kidding, don't worry" said Tenten as she continued her searching until her eyes fell onto something special. "Oh my, this is perfect. Hinata, you have got to try this one on. This is so you and yet, not you; it's totally perfect."
Tenten hands Hinata her newest selection and hears Hinata gasp, leading her to say "Please try it on."
The sound of clothes being removed could then be heard before the sound of Hinata getting into Tenten's choice. Once the sound of dressing was silenced, Tenten says "OK girl, come out and let's see how you look."
The door opens and Hinata steps out, making Tenten's eyes go wide and her cheeks redden just a little. "Oh my god, that is perfect for you" proclaimed Tenten as she ushered Hinata over to a large mirror. Seeing her reflection made Hinata admit that it was a good look for her and she did like it.
"Do you really think so?" asked Hinata.
"Trust me on this. If I was gay or at least bi, I'd push you back into that changing room and have some dirty fun with you" said Tenten.
"Um...OK" said Hinata nervously as she had remembered Tenten joking once that she would be a little bi if the right guy and girl came along.
"Anyways, let's go pay for this dress. You are so gonna be wearing this for the journey" said Tenten.
"Do you think Naruto will like it?" asked Hinata.
"Trust me, one look at you in that will make him want to drag you into a more private location and rape you over and over and over again" said Tenten.
Hinata blushes before saying "You can't rape the willing."
Tenten laughs and says "Now your talking like a girl in love."
(elsewhere...again)
Itachi raised a kunai up and prepared to strike at Kurenai, who bit hard onto her lip to break the jutsu. Instantly, she was free and dodging Itachi's stab as she went to launch another attack. But before she could even begin, Itachi's leg came in hard against her, sending Kurenai flying through the air.
"Kurenai" shouts Asuma as he finally breaks free from the struggle he and Kisame were having and rushed to Kurenai's aid, saving her from making a nasty impact with the ground.
As Asuma places Kurenai back on the ground, they both hear the sound of flames moving through the air, looking on in shock as Itachi released a massive sized ball of fire at them. There was no mistaking it; it that attack hit, they would be finished for sure.
"Water style; Water Shark Bomb jutsu" comes a voice followed by a blast of water intercepting the flame.
"Oh, looks like we have another guest here" said Kisame excitedly.
As the blast of steam let's up, Kakashi appears standing before Asuma and Kurenai with his Sharingan exposed and ready for combat.
"Itachi, why are you attacking fellow Leaf shinobi?" asked Kakashi,
"As I told them earlier, things have changed as have my loyalties. Now then, will you stand against me as well, Kakashi?" asked Itachi.
"So, this is the famous Copy Ninja, huh? Looks like his reputation precedes him" said Kisame as he stepped forward. He then said "That Water Shark Bomb? I'm guessing you battled another ninja from my old village, correct?"
"And what if I did?" asked Kakashi.
"Oh, no reason really. I just thought you should see what a REAL Water Shark Bomb can do. After all, yours is good, but it's still just a pale imitation of the original. And now, Water Shark..." said Kisame who was cut off as Itachi raised a hand up and stopped him from making hand signs.
"Hey, what gives?" asked Kisame.
"Against a ninja of Kakashi's skill, you would end up making to much of a racket. And that will bring unwanted attention here. I will deal with him, you just keep the others from interfering. Besides, my way is more subtle and efficient than yours" said Itachi as he stepped forward.
"So, I take it this will be a battle of Sharingan then?" asked Kakashi as he readied a genjutsu to use.
"Indeed, but not your average one. Seeing as we don't have time for games, I'll just cut right to the chase" said Itachi as he brought a hand up to cover his left eye. After just a moment, he pulled his hand away while saying "Mangekyo Sharingan" and revealing his Sharingan had changed shape.
Kakashi's eyes go wide with shock as the world around him shifts into another plane of black and red. He goes to look around, only to find his body pinned to what appears to be a cross. "Tsukuyomi; the Nightmare Realm" said Itachi as he appeared before Kakashi.
"What is this? How did you obtain the Mangekyo?" asked Kakashi.
Itachi raises an eyebrow and ask "I'm surprised you know of this. I am curious to learn how?"
"Obito would talk about all of this with Rin and myself; the legend of the Uchiha clan" said Kakashi.
Itachi nods as he continues to look at Kakashi. "Now answer a question for me. Why have you come back and why have you betrayed us? Have you been affected by a Dark Bring?" asked Kakashi.
"Kakashi..." said Itachi as they continued to be wrapped with in the nightmare.
(elsewhere)
Naruto, Plue, and Haku stood just before the village gate, awaiting the arrival of Hinata, Tenten, and Jiraiya. Plue was resting atop Naruto's head like always as Haku was going over his mental check list about what he still needed to do before he left in the morning with Anko.
"Hey, Haku" said Naruto, breaking the silence.
"What is it, Naruto?" asked Haku.
"I'm gonna do it. Before we get back, I'm gonna tell Hinata how I feel about her" said Naruto.
Haku looks at him, wide eyed before saying "Seriously?"
"Yeah, I was going to tell her right after the Exams were over. But given all that happened, the timing was just not right. But, I just...don't want to wait anymore. I love her and...well, I want to do things with her. You know, boyfriend/girlfriend things" said Naruto as he blushed from saying all of that.
"You mean like hugging, holding hands, kissing, and eventually more adult things too?" asked Haku.
"Yeah. Am I wrong to want all that?" asked Naruto.
Haku shakes his head and says "Not at all. From what I know about your past from the stuff you've told me about, wanting to be with someone in such a deep and personal way is only natural. And you don't need to worry about rejection. I have a feeling Hinata feels that way too."
"I hope you're right" said Naruto.
"Oh boys, feast your eyes on this sexiness" comes the voice of Tenten, making Naruto and Haku turn to look at her.
"Eh, ain't nothing I haven't seen before" joked Naruto as he looked at Tenten.
"Why you sonuva...I mean no, not me. I was talking about Hinata" shouts Tenten as she motions for Hinata to come out from around the corner.
"Wow, she certainty can draw ones eyes, huh Naruto? Naruto?" asked Haku as he looked at Hinata, then at Naruto.
Naruto's eyes were as wide as possible, his cheeks as red as can be, and his stunned speechless expression was more than enough to say what was going on in his mind.
Hinata was wearing a black dress with shoulder straps, a beaded belt around her waist, and the dress reaching down to her knees. She had a bracelet on her left wrist and the Heart Kreuz pendant present and resting over the small exposure of cleavage from the dress.
"So, how do I look?" asked Hinata shyly.
"Hinata, you're so...beautiful" said Naruto in a daze, making her blush even more.
Off to the side, Tenten and Haku are standing side by side as Tenten says "Oh yeah, they're definitely gonna be getting together before this trip is over."
Haku nods and says "If they don't, our fans will ditch us."
"Huh? What fans?" asked Tenten. Haku only shrugs as he doesn't really know either.
"You look good to, Naruto" said Hinata as she checked him over.
"My, what do we have here" came a voice from the side.
Everyone turned to see Jiraiya writing in a small note book who then said "Please, don't stop. This is giving me some great material to work with."
"How long have you been here, pervy sage?" asked Naruto, a little worried about the "writing down" part.
"Oh, long enough to get some great ideas for how to begin my next big book. And I think I also came up with the perfect name for it. Make Out Dreams" said Jiraiya as he placed the notepad away and walked over to them.
"Just perfect" said Naruto, huffing in annoyance.
"Anyways, are we ready to go yet? And who all is going? Asked Jiraiya.
"Yeah, we're ready. It's just me, Hinata, and Plue here" said Naruto.
"Aw, the other two girls aren't going either? Damn, I was hoping to be inspired with a hit four way moment" joked Jiraiya.
'Other two girls?' wondered Hinata as she looked at Tenten and Haku.
"Actually sir, I'm a boy" explained Haku.
"Seriously?" asked a surprised Jiraiya, receiving a nod from Haku in return. 'Ah crap, and I was having some personal fantasies involving that one and me too' he then mentally screams in a panic.
"Anyways, you find that picture of Tsunade by any chance?" asked Naruto.
Coming back to reality, Jiraiya nods and says "Yeah, I'll show it to you guys once we reach the Outpost village near here. I'm planning on gather some information on her there. Well then, we better get going if we want to reach the village while the sun's still out."
"Naruto, Hinata, Plue, be careful out there" said Haku.
"And make sure you find Tsunade too" says Tenten.
The three fellow members of Team Rave nod as they and Jiraiya began their walk away from the village. "Oh, and make sure you have plenty of dirty stories to tell us when you get back" she adds.
Haku just smiles at that till the sound of wings is heard. He turns back and sees a jet black crow flying from the top of the gate, following after Naruto and the others.
"Hey Haku, is something wrong?" asked Tenten.
Haku watches the crow fly away, then says "No, I don't think so." 'I hope, anyways.'
(one last elsewhere)
The world shifted back to reality for Kakashi as he found himself falling onto his knees. What Itachi had did to him in there was indeed having an affect as he told it would and the vision in his Sharingan was warping and becoming distorted.
'Itachi' thinks Kakashi before his world goes dark and he collapses to the ground.
"Kakashi" shouts Asuma as he rushes forwards, only to be blocked by Kisame.
"So, did you kill him?" asked Kisame.
"No, he wasn't worth the effort" said Itachi as he looks at Kurenai and Asuma and says "You want to know why I came back? Then I will give you a hint; the Legacy of the Fourth Hokage."
"The Legacy...of the Fourth Hokage?" said Kurenai in shock.
"So, it's Naruto you're after, huh?" said Asuma.
'An interesting choice of words. Why would Itachi call him the Fourth's Legacy, I wonder?' mentally wondered Kisame.
"And now..." said Itachi as he went to make a move, but was stopped as a new figure appeared before them.
"Have no fear, for the handsome beast of the Hidden Leaf is here. I am Might Guy"
Kisame just looks at him with a "what the heck is that" look, then says "Might Guy, more like a mighty stupid looking guy if you ask me."
Guy looks down and sees Kakashi's unconscious form on the ground, then back up at Itachi and wonders 'What the heck is going on here? Oh well, fight now and ask questions later is my motto and I will stick with it for now.'
Asuma and Kurenai move to his side and Asuma ask "Good timing, these guys are harder than we expected."
Any ideas?" asked Kurenai.
"Yeah, I have a few seeing as I'm familiar with battles that involve the Sharingan in them" said Guy.
Itachi suddenly looks to the side, then back at Kisame and says "Kisame, we're leaving now."
Kisame looks at him and says "Huh, how come?"
"With every moment, we find this place being more crowded. I'd rather we avoid anymore unwanted attention" said Itachi.
"Oh no you don't. We have some question's that need answering" shouts Guy as he goes to attack.
"Water style, Burning Mist jutsu" shouts Kisame before releasing a red mist he covers him and Itachi. When the mist fades, they have both disappeared.
"Damn, they got away" says Guy in frustration.
"We can locate them later. For now, we need to get Kakashi to a doctor" said Kurenai as Asuma picked him up. Guy nods as the three of them head off.
Meanwhile, just outside the village, Itachi and Kisame appear on a tree and Kisame ask "So why did we leave the village?"
"Before we arrived, I created some crows to scan the village and I have found Naruto has just left and is currently heading towards the Outpost village along with a Hyuga girl of the same age as him and Jiraiya of the Sanin" said Itachi.
"A Sanin huh? This will make things more interesting. And seeing as the Jinchurriki isn't here no more, then staying would be a waste" said Kisame.
"Let's go" said Itachi as they head off towards the Outpost village. 'So, Hinata is with Naruto. This will make things easier then' adds Itachi as he allows himself a quick smile.
Next time on Rave Master Naruto: Naruto and Hinata are left by Jiraiya inside an interesting choice for a hotel room. Sasuke learns of Itachi's return and takes off to find Naruto. And when Naruto and Hinata are attacked by Itachi and Kisame, will they be able to fight and defend themselves?
Find out next time on RMN: The Forbidden Combination
NaruHina Origin's
The Day I said I Love You
Since that day Naruto had saved her from the bullies and hearing his proclamation in the forest, Hinata had found a new respect for Naruto as well as an ever growing desire to be by his side. She worked hard to improve herself and to find the courage to speak to him.
The came the day of the storm, where Naruto's home was hit by lightning. Though it was a sad thing for Hinata to hear about, she was glad it worked out to his advantage in the end. He had met Plue, obtained his Rave, and got a newer and much better home than his old one out of the deal.
All in all, it was a great exchange for him. But the next major event for her would occur one week after all this happened, on a day where she learned Naruto's greatest secret and the end result of what knowing it would do to her.
The academy had let out for the day and Naruto, along with Plue, was heading to the training grounds to do some hard training. Hinata, seeing as she had nothing that needed her to return home quickly for awaiting her this day, decided to follow and watch him train as it inspired her to train just as hard.
And it was because of this decision that she heard it.
"Can you believe it? First we have that damn demon brat living in the village like it's a regular human. But now it's even calling forth more demon like creatures. Just what is the Hokage thinking?" said a women with reddish pink hair.
Hinata hears this and stops. Seeing the two women in this conversation, she quickly hides to listen in. Though hearing Naruto being called a demon (and assuming Plue was the other demon) filled her with anger, she chose to stay quiet and listen in order to learn more, or hoped she did anyways.
"Ssshhh, keep it down. You know the about the law, just like I do. Besides, I heard that thing is a dog of some sort" said the other woman.
"A dog? Now that's just stupid. And no, I won't keep it down, not anymore. My daughter is in the same class as that beast and I'm afraid he'll eat her, kill her, or even...worse things. After all, I've heard he has his eyes on my precious Sakura" said the woman.
"But..." said the other woman.
"No, no more buts or anything like that. I'm going to go speak to the Hokage right now. Either he destroys that beast or at least seals it away from human eyes, or else I'm telling all the children that Naruto Uzumaki is really the Nine Tailed Fox" said Sakura's mother before storming off towards the Hokage's Tower.
'Naruto, the Nine Tailed Fox?' says Hinata mentally, remembering what she had heard years before.
She had been to young to understand it back then, but she did now having learned about the Biju in class. But, it just couldn't be true. Could it? Though she was even more confused than before, Hinata followed after Sakura's mom, planning on eavesdropping on the talk to learn the full truth herself.
(Hokage's tower)
Hinata had been very quiet and very sneaky in getting around the Hokage's tower in order to reach the door outside his office where Sakura's mom was currently yelling at him over the situation. Though what she was doing was inappropriate for an heiress of the Hyuga clan, she had at least proven that she had learned her ninja lessons well.
Though she couldn't hear what was going on in there well, her Byakugan and her being skilled at lip reading aided her enough to understand what was being said in there. "You heard me, Lord Hokage. I want that...that thing removed from the academy at once" shouts miss Haruno.
Sarutobi gives her a hard look before asking in a low, chilling voice "And what is this...thing exactly?"
"You know damn well who I mean. That accursed Naruto Uzumaki boy. He's been a danger to the village since the day he was born. By all rights, he should have been destroyed or at least locked away forever" shouts Haruno.
Now the Hokage was mad as he stands quickly and shouts "You would have me kill an innocent child who has done nothing? You would have me seal an innocent child away into darkness forever?"
"Of course I would; because that thing is not a child. It's that damn Nine Tailed Fox in human form. It's not innocent at all, it's just biding its time till it can regain all of its lost power so it can finish what was started years ago. Why can't you see that?" shouts Haruno.
"Don't confuse things, my dear. Naruto is not the Fox; he just had it sealed with in him by the Fourth in order to protect this village. Naruto is the jailer, not the beast itself. Why can't you people understand that?" said Sarutobi.
'Naruto...now I understand' thinks Hinata.
Haruno huffs as she says "If the Fourth was still alive, he would have killed that little..."
Sarutobi slams his fist hard into the desk, causing it to crack a little which surprised both himself and Haruno. "How dare you make such a claim, do you really think Minato would order the death of his own..."
"What?" asked Haruno, surprised and shocked by this.
"Never mind what I was about to say. It seems you all don't remember what I told you about Minato's final words. They are and I quote "Naruto has been given a burden no child should ever bear. Please, don't look down upon him or hate him. He's the real hero here tonight, not me. For as long as he lives, he shall protect the world. So please, be kind to him and show him love". That was his final wish" said Sarutobi.
Haruno stands there as the Hokage adds "Also, do you not trust the Fourth at all? He is the one who sealed the Fox with in the boy. Would he have made those his final words if Naruto was ever going to be a danger to the village?"
Haruno looks down and says "No, he would never do that."
"It shames me greatly how you people could so easily forget that; to lose that faith in him and his abilities. If Minato were still alive and saw how the boy had been treated, he might think back to that night and regret saving this village which obviously didn't deserve it. And even I am at fault because I...is some one out there?" asked Sarutobi as he looked towards the door.
Fearing her precense had been discovered, Hinata turned and ran for it. She managed to escape the tower easily and quickly enough and made it home without incident. That night, as she laid in bed, the knowledge she had gained this day continued to play over and over again in her head.
And it was at that moment she made a decision and it would be to save Naruto from his cursed fate.
Over the next several days, Hinata spent all of her free time in the clan archives room, looking through one scroll after another; reading up on anything that had to do with sealing jutsu and techniques. She was very careful not to miss even a single word and forget anything she read. She would find an answer and save Naruto, no matter what.
"Ko, have you seen Hinata today? I wish for her to observe a match between Hanabi and Neji" said Hiashi.
"I have sir. She's currently inside the archival room, doing research" replied Ko.
Surprised by this, Hiashi looks at Ko and ask "Research? What kind exactly?"
"I don't know, sir. I asked her but she said it was a secret; something she wanted to do" said Ko.
Hiashi quickly activates his Byakugan, allowing his sight to fall upon Hinata and her intensive reading on the scrolls before her. It is then he sees the scrolls are all about the sealing arts. Deactivating his doujoutsu, Hiashi stands and says "I'll go see what she working on then. I'm curious about it."
After a few moments, Hiashi arrives outside the archival room and enters it. He allows himself a small smile at seeing Hinata so focused on her research that she failed to notice his arrival. Clearing his throat, he says "May I ask what has got you so interested in the sealing arts?"
Hinata jumps at hearing his voice, then turns around and gives him a nervous look at she says "Father, my apologizes. I didn't hear you come in."
"Never mind that now. Tell me what has made you curious about sealing jutsu?" asked Hiashi.
Hinata looks away and says "Well, I figured knowing this would be important for what ever my future role will be in the clan. After all, a lot of things are expected of me and..."
"That is true, but tell me the real reason behind your new found interest. Maybe I can help you with some important Intel" said Hiashi.
Though she wasn't sure if she should talk about it, she knew she couldn't talk her way out of this now. "Well, we recently learned about the nine Biju and how they were used as weapons during the past wars. And that they could be sealed into the bodies of humans also."
"That is true. Sealing a biju into a human body creates a Jinchurriki; a living weapon capable of unleashing great power. But, with a few notable exceptions, a Biju can only be sealed into the body of a new born infant" said Hiashi, who was wondering if Hinata may have learned about Naruto's secret.
"I thought so" said Hinata to herself. "But why would people do that to infants?"
"Humans are a vain, greedy, cowardly, and corrupted lot. We usually only think of ourselves before others. Sacrificing a single child for our own sake or saying it's for the sake of the village is seen as a justifiable act that is for the good of the many. And treating that child as a monster is another way to make him or her into a more dangerous weapon" said Hiashi as he watched Hinata's reactions carefully.
As Hinata looks down sadly, Hiashi adds "But, there have been a couple of times where the sealing was forced to be done, in order to save people. The Fourth Hokage for example. There is a rumor that he had to seal the Nine Tailed Fox into the body of an infant in order to save the village and asked as his final request that the boy be treated as a hero."
Hinata looks up at him and says "Such a person would be a hero? Yeah, he is a hero."
"What's that?" asked Hiashi.
Hinata shakes her head and says "Nothing, but I do have one more question. Is it possible to remove the Biju from the host body?"
Now Hiashi had no doubt Hinata knew about Naruto, which made this even harder for him to say. "Yes, it is possible. After all, anything that can be sealed can be unsealed as well. However. To unseal a Biju and free it would...kill the host in the process."
Hinata's eyes go wide with shock as Hiashi adds "Due to how the link between host and Biju works, to remove it would cause the host life force to be ripped from his or her's body, killing them. Sadly, once one becomes a Jinchurriki, they shall be one for life."
Hinata's eyes tear up as she looks away, saying "That's not fair. Not fair that he..."
"And that's why if you were to ever meet a Jinchurriki in person, you must show them kindness and understand. As Lady Mito, wife of the First Hokage once said, "In order for the Jinchurriki to live a happy life, his vessel must be filled with love". Can you do that, Hinata?" asked Hiashi.
Hinata looks at her father with such strength and conviction in her eyes, it surprised him as she said "Yes, I can do that. I would make that person feel happy and loved. I wouldn't let them be alone."
Hiashi smiles as he says "You are so like your mother like that. Then, as her daughter, as my daughter, stay true to those words and do what you have to do, what you want to do." And with that, Hiashi turns around and leaves the room.
The next day, Hinata was finally able to approach Naruto and talk with him; truly talk with him. She gave him a lunch meal she had made herself and after the academy had let out, Naruto asked if she wanted to go train with him. Hinata accepted with out delay or hesitation.
With in three years and by the time they had graduated from the academy, Naruto and Hinata had become the best of friends. And they,along with Plue and Tenten and Kurenai, became Team 7; the Rave warriors who would save the world from the Dark Bring.
And in all that time, Naruto and Hinata continued to grow closer and closer and their feelings for one another became stronger and stronger.
(just hours before Naruto's battle with Neji)
"Ah-hem, are we interrupting something special?" came a voice from the side. Both Naruto and Hinata quickly break apart, both blushing madly as their eyes fall onto Haku and Ayame.
"Hey, why are you guys here?" shouts Naruto, his voice not hiding his anger and embarrassment.
"We saw you and Plue in the village, looking gloomy. So, we followed you here" said Ayame.
"What did you two see?" asked Hinata.
"Oh, just enough to find it all cute and heart warming" stated Haku mater-of-factually.
"Well, next time let us know you're here. You two scared us half to death" grumbles Naruto.
"Where would the fun be in that" says Haku. "Oh, you better hurry Naruto. The exams begin in less than twenty minutes."
"WHAT? Aw snap, I better hurry. Gotta go, Hinata. Make sure you find a good seat and watch me get Neji a new attitude. Plue, stay with Hinata and cheer with her" shouts Naruto as he rushes out.
"Puun" said Plue as he waves goodbye.
"Good luck, Naruto" yells Hinata as she waves shyly at him.
"Sorry Hinata, we didn't mean to ruin that moment. We honestly couldn't help ourselves" said Ayame.
"That's OK. I've already decided that once the exams have finished, I'm going to tell Naruto about how I feel for him. I'll tell him how much I...love him" said Hinata as she blushed proudly.
And she meant it too. She loved Naruto with all her heart and now was the time for her to say it. To fill the vessel with love was her desire and she would do it.
Plus, she wanted Naruto to fill her with love too. In more ways that one.
Fin...