Happy Sunday Everyone!
I'm really excited to put out this chapter. I feel like this is going to be the beginning of the next "chapter " of the story. I hope you like it. Oh and Q&A!
Q: How much can the leader of the clan control the members of the clan before the Hokage need to do something?
For example, as a Hokage he could very well say that if Hinata don't go to classes she can't be classified as a gennin and forcing that could be wrong compared to the other clan kids that go to Academy
A: Considering that Itachi went into Anbu at an extremely young age I'd say that the Hokage would have very very little say about personal matters like whether Hiashi, the leader of the entire Hyuuga clan, refused to allow her to go back to the academy. This definitely is not something a hokage would get involved in. Especially since Sarutobi already gave Hiashi the green light to make any decision that he wants.
Q: why Hiashi is being such a dick in how he goes about things?
A: He is being a dick because he is a dick. Before the time skip Hiashi's relationship with Hinata could be classified as neglectful at best, bordering on abusive. He is a very distant and stern parent. When ever the anime depicted him it was him staring down Hinata and telling her how much he was disappointed in her fighting ability, in her being weak. That she didn't train hard enough, that she wasn't focused enough on living up to the legacy of the Hyuuga. It was small snipits in the anime but I remember that being very prominent.
He's the type of father that doesn't hug his daughter, doesn't tell her he loves her, doesn't tuck her in bed at night. He probably doesn't even touch her very much. When I think of Hiashi I think of Tywin Lannister. They are both pretty shitty parents if you ask me. Sure, Hiashi loves her. But in practice all Hinata sees of that love is the fact that she has a house, food, and is warm during the winter and has a roof over her head. I know these type of men. It's very easy to feel neglected by then.
Then there is his constant berating of her, telling her how much of a disappointment she is to the Hyuuga line because she isn't as strong as her sister. Honestly their relationship is borderline abusive. He could be way worse, don't get me wrong. But I wouldn't want to have him as a father. The reason why he behaves that way is explored in this chapter. You can decide for yourself whether that justifies how he treats his daughters.
"Kyuubi Speech"
"Midnight Speech"
"Everyone else's speech"
"Thought Speech"
Chapter 37
On with the story
Hinata stared out of the window of her room, the girl laying on her belly and hiding most of her face behind her forearms. She watched rain pepper the glass. A flash of lightning illuminated her otherwise dark room. That flash was followed by a roar of thunder, making her jump slightly underneath her covers.
Hiashi remained kneeling in the living room, the man's head down in deep meditation, still facing that shrine of Hyuuga ancestors. The area was almost pitch black. Another flash of lighting illuminated the room from the window near the front door. The light bounced off the cream colored skin of a figure who stood a few feet behind Hiashi.
Hiashi frowned in confusion, opening his eyes just as another flash of lightning illuminated the room. In the reflection of the picture of Hinata's mother Hiashi caught the sight of that figure. The elder Hyuuga jumped up on his feet in alarm, turning around into a fighting stance with his Byakugan flared.
Naruto stood cool and collected, staring up at the man in silence. Hiashi gritted his teeth, looking down at the boy in frustration.
"How the hell did he get in here without my noticing? Without anyone noticing? How long has he been there? This is the power of a demon?" Hiashi's mind raced frantically.
While Hiashi analysed the situation Naruto kept still, the boy unmoving, just watching. Seeing Naruto's lack of movement caused Hiashi to calm himself, the man rising up from his fighting stance to instead drop back down to a kneeling position. He placed his hands atop his lap and closed his eyes, still facing Naruto.
"Then you've come for her." Hiashi stated in a dull tone.
"No, I've come to talk to you." Naruto corrected.
Hiashi snapped his eyes back open to stare at the boy with a narrowed gaze.
"I have no interest in anything a demon has to say." The man spoke in a strained whisper.
"Is that wise?" Naruto questioned while tilting his head to the side.
Hiashi paused, considering Naruto's meaning.
"What am I to you?" Naruto pressed.
Hiashi took his time before answering.
"You know what you are." Hiashi retorted in aggravation.
"Do I? What is that I wonder?"
"A demon! A monster. A vile, repulsive being of unspeakable evil. Don't play games with me." The man still tried to keep his voice down but made his disgust very clear.
Naruto was seemingly unfazed by the insults. He kept his violet eyes on the man with a blank expression.
"Do you think it wise to ignore the desires of someone you consider evil yet also has the power to destroy you and everyone you love in an instant?" Naruto posed that question with a curious tone.
Hiashi froze, the hairs on the back of his neck standing up. He didn't answer, the man focusing on staying calm despite the fear he felt.
Naruto noted his restraint, nodding in understanding before stepping forward with slow, deliberate steps. Every step that brought Naruto closer sent a quake through Hiashi's form, though it would be nearly impossible to tell from the seasoned shinobi's practiced poise. Naruto moved to Haishi's side, hands resting against his pelvis elegantly while looking at the Hyuuga shrine.
"The world you know is coming to an end, in time." Naruto stated bluntly.
Hiashi kept his eyes forward, dread welling up in the man. He just listened for now. The old Hyuuga couldn't remember ever being more afraid of anything in his life. Not just for his own life but for his family. Naruto was in his house after all. He'd already fought Naruto once. That fight was almost a year ago now. It wasn't even close. If Naruto wanted to take his family, to destroy his family, they both knew Hiashi could do nothing about it.
"The new world that will be created will have no room for much that exists now. You struggle and suffer endlessly, doing unspeakable things in order to keep your family safe. To provide a decent life for those you care about. To protect them. It is that aspect of you that I admire, that I respect." Naruto spoke in a gentle voice, still staring at the pictures.
Hiashi turned his gaze to Naruto now, a scowl on his face.
"The respect of a demon means nothing. It's an insult." The man spat back.
Naruto turned his head to look down at the kneeling man. Hiashi looked away, choosing to stare forward once more.
"What makes me a monster in your eyes?"
"Is that a serious question?" Hiashi retorted.
"It is." Naruto responded while kneeling down himself right next to Hiashi.
They faced the opposite direction, neither looking towards each other.
"How many innocents did you kill that day? How many shinobi died at your hand? Their mutilated bodies still haunt the minds of many. How many did you murder in cold blood? Now you seek to steal the heart and mind of a defenseless child. That can't be a serious question." Hiashi snapped back.
Naruto nodded in agreement.
"What I did that day was horrible. We agree."
Hiashi stole a glance towards the boy for a split second before focusing his gaze forward again.
"I did what I thought I needed to do to protect my family. Admittedly, I went beyond that scope. I wanted to cause those that hurt the one I love pain. I wanted to make them suffer for what they did to my love."
Hiashi released an audible scoff.
"Do not insult the notion by claiming that you can feel love."
A long silence fell over them after Hiashi spoke those words. Naruto turned to stare at the side of the man's head. If not for his shinobi training the man would have been shaking.
"Do you believe that humans are the only ones who feel love?" Naruto spoke now in a way which completely separated himself from humanity.
Hiashi didn't answer, not wanting to press his luck on the subject. Naruto showed a flash of sadness in his eyes.
"Of course. How could you understand a demon's love when you know so little about us." Naruto commented idly. He turned his eyes away now to stare forward. "I know what you are responsible for, what you've done in your shinobi career. Do you claim to be better than me?"
Hiashi was speechless, looking over at the boy in disbelief. What did he know? Almost as soon as that thought crossed Hiashi's mind Naruto responded.
"Everything."
The man stiffened. Was Naruto reading his thoughts?
"I know what happened in Amegakure all those years ago. You still reek of blood."
Hiashi's poise finally faltered. He knew...he knew. The man's left hand began to visibly shake. He had to clutch it with his right.
"Yet still you think you are better than a demon?" Naruto questioned.
"I did what I had to do." Hiashi insisted.
"By your own standard what you did was evil!" Naruto snapped back, finally raising his voice.
Hiashi nearly jumped out of his skin but managed to remain seated.
"Who are you to judge me?" Hiashi spoke under his breath now.
Naruto's frame calmed, his narrowed gaze softening.
"Who are you to judge me?" Naruto repeated.
Hiashi looked over to Naruto, finally matching the boy's gaze. Naruto could see the understanding in his eyes.
"We are more alike then you can imagine. No matter how much it disgusts you. No matter how much either of us want to admit it. You, humans, have done far more evil then I can ever dream. Much of it only for your own personal satisfaction. You justify it and excuse it, then with a straight face seek to judge others. Point an accusatory finger at others while that very finger is covered in blood. The only real different between what you and I did was that I was on the opposite side. If you felt that what I did was required to keep your family safe, to protect the village, I'd be praised a hero, awarded a metal, revered, my name and face carved into the stone." Naruto went on now, his high pitched voice barely a whisper.
Hiashi silently listened now. The hypocrisy of war heroes was not lost on him.
"What we do is necessary. What we do is out of love and duty. Even if our actions are the same, even if our actions are worse, don't you dare compare us. We are nothing alike." Hiashi insisted.
Naruto grew a sad smile.
"You believe that you intention and reason justifies the act. I understand." Naruto replied while standing up.
"Unlike you, I don't think my actions are justified or good, or evil. Justice, it doesn't exist. Evil, good, a matter of perspective. The truth is that the universe doesn't care about what we do to each other. The universe is cold, unfeeling, and larger than you can imagine. These ideas, justice, duty, honor, have been created to help us live better among ourselves, to make us sleep better at night. But they are empty. Justice in practice, is in the hands of the strong, denied to the weak. We are all victims and perpetrators. We are all responsible for what we do to each other. Saying a few words isn't going to make what we've done to each other right. What matters is our actions, our effect on each other. You think speaking the words Love, Duty, Justice, Honor, your good intentions make what you did less horrible? The children that you slaughtered, you think their deaths was any less painful because you thought you needed to do it? The mother, sisters, daughters who were raped. You think their suffering was lessened because it was "necessary?" Because of love? No, we are all monsters. To something, someone, somewhere. We are monsters. We all require, demand the suffering of others for our own existence." Naruto ranted.
Naruto moved over to the window of the living room to look outside on the Hyuuga complex. He could see Hyuuga guards standing on duty in the rain, all oblivious to his presence. Hiashi watched Naruto carefully now.
"This world is in so much pain. We cause and endure so much pain, so much suffering. We do unspeakable things to each other. This village is built on a bed of blood. No human, not even you truly comprehend the cost of what you've built. Many of you sit at your dinner tables and eat from plates of food who's cost you can't truly imagine. Not just the suffering of your fellow species, but other species as well." Naruto's eyes gained a far off look.
"Did you know that this area used to be filled with wolves? Before your people settled here. Wolves roamed and thrived. They are majestic creatures, the ancestors of your dogs. Viscous but precious in their own way. Do you know what happened them?" Naruto asked, turning back to Hiashi now.
Hiashi narrowed his gaze, knowing the answer.
"You compare the cleansing of the wolf population to what you've done?" Hiashi retorted angrily.
Naruto quickly closed the distance between them.
"And what is so different? Do they not suffer? Do they not care for their young, protect them, provide for them. Why does their suffering not matter?" Naruto replied back in a desperate tone, their faces inches apart.
Hiashi was stoic, getting more and more used to Naruto's presence.
"They are animals, beasts. They cannot be compared to us?"
"Why not? Do they not love? Do they not feel pain, do they not seek to live the same as you?"
"They are beasts!" Hiashi barked.
Naruto nodded.
"What makes them so different? Their intelligence, their capacity for love?"
"All of the above." Haishi replied in frustration.
Naruto could tell that Hiashi was growing weary of the conversation. How could a human understanding or even seek to care about anyone else but their own. Naruto looked away, standing up straight since he was bending over slightly at the waist to be so close to Hiashi's face.
"There are humans born unlike the rest. With problems in their minds and brains. Their capacity for the human experience is extremely diminished yet you take care of them. Would you deny them rights because of their lowered capacity for feel love, to be intelligent? Would you slaughter them, eat them, rape them, and feel nothing as you do for those "beasts?"
Hiashi scoffed.
"They are still people. You cannot compare any human to a beast."
Naruto nodded in understanding.
"So it isn't a human's greater capacity for love, for intelligence, their sentience that makes them special. It is simply the fact that you are human that you give value to their rights, their suffering, their desires, their dreams." Naruto explained.
Hiashi didn't respond. This was all too obvious to him.
"If that's the case then why should a demon treat you any better than the way you treat beasts? What right do you have to call what I do evil if it's ok to treat those different than you in any way you see fit?" Naruto stated in a haunting voice now while placing one dainty hand along Hiashi's shoulder.
A chill crept up Hiashi's spine from the touch and from the boy's words. Now he could see Naruto's point. Naruto's eyes narrowed, the boy's pretty face contorting into a scowl. Hiashi did nothing to defend himself even while feeling the sharp point of Naruto's nail poking carefully into the fabric of the kimono the man wore.
"To a rat, the cat is a monster. To the deer, a wolf is a monster. To almost every other species on the planet, humans are monsters. To humans, I am a monster." Naruto's normally high pitched, effeminate voice changed now.
He spoke in two voices. One was his normal voice, the other was a much more deep, demonic incarnation. Naruto's nails grew, the boy's fingers moving towards Hiashi's neck. Naruto's golden fox ears sprouted from his head, his four tails springing out from his tailbone. The whisker marks along Naruto's cheeks became more prominent, the boy's canines lengthened into fangs.
Hiashi was completely frozen. He couldn't move even if he wanted to. His body was paralzed, helpless as Naruto's nail began to push into the man's jugular, but still not breaking the skin.
"A monster treats those below it with unimaginable cruelty. To those you deem "below you" different than you, you eat them, slaughter them, wear their skin and use their organs as tools. You hunt them for sport. You dismember them and sell their body parts as jewelry. You treat them as objects, a commodity to be sold, used, abused, and tossed away when their use fades. You rape them, impregnate them and steal their children away. Put them down when it becomes too expensive or too inconvenient to care for them. You herd them, decapitate them, boil them alive, slit their throats and hang their still alive bodies upside down to bleed them dry. That's what a monster does to those "other" than them. That's what you humans do every day. That's just a fraction of the cost of your existence." Naruto went on.
Hiashi closed his eyes, resigning himself to death. The images of his daughters flashed through his mind, the sight of his wife's smiling face that he hadn't seen in years. A few moments passed by, then another, and another. Eventually Hiashi opened his eyes, a confused look in his eyes. Naruto was just staring at him now, the boy having returned to that elegant posture. Naruto maintained his demonic form but now the blonde's expression was gentle, calm, even a hint of kindness in his violet eyes.
"Lucky for you, I'm not going to treat you like a human would in my position." Naruto spoke now in a light hearted manner, even sending the man a warm smile.
Hiashi was completely thrown off, not knowing what to think. He was still breathing, and he could move. Those things were what mattered right now.
"This world will change. The new world is coming. In the new world there will be no place for monsters. I want you, your family, everyone, to be a part of that. That means joining me, joining my family. Becoming one of us. As part of my family I will protect you. I will love you. We can be safe, happy, united. Finally we can be at peace with one another." Naruto explained.
Hiashi had to collect himself before responding.
"We would never join a demon, no matter what tricks you spin, what tales you weave." Hiashi replied stubbornly.
Naruto tilted his head to the side a bit.
"Then you'll die." Naruto stayed simply.
"Then it was all lies. You said you didn't intend to behave like a monster."
Naruto shook his head.
"I said I won't treat you as poorly as you treat others. In fact I'll give you a lot more consideration then you give those you deem beneath you. Your deaths will be quick, painless. But make no mistake, you will die. There is no longer a place for you. It is your choice. I want all of you to choose to join us, to say yes. I don't expect you to. No matter what I say, what I do, what I show you, nothing can persuade you. You are a lost cause. In time I'll prove to those with minds open how much better life can be with us."
Hiashi gritted his teeth.
"My eyes are open. I can see your evil, even if others fall for your tricks. You'll never fool me. And you'll never take my daughters." Hiashi said now while standing up to tower imposingly above Naruto.
Naruto looked up at him with an empathetic gaze.
"I understand. I know exactly why you feel that way. I do not blame you. In your mind I am evil by the very nature of my existence. To you my actions have done little to prove otherwise even though those are the exact type of actions you yourself have done out of love and duty. You cannot see your own hypocrisy simply because you cannot know what it is to be a demon, to love as a demon loves, to feel as a demon feels. Opening yourself up to that possibility is too risky, too inconvenient, too hard. I could show you everything that brought me to the decision to do what I did that day, show you the world through my eyes, make you feel the love that I felt that day but you'd just see it as a trick. You're ignorance is tragic. Know that when the time comes that I don't hate you. In fact...whether you believe it or not, I care deeply for you. I'll prove you wrong. I'll show the world how much better life can be, will be. I'll give this world what it needs. The love and compassion it's been denied since humans first created society. My deepest regret is that those like you won't be around to enjoy it." Naruto stated resolutely before turning on his heels and walking towards the door.
"Stay away from my daughter." Hiashi reiterated.
Naruto stopped, keeping his back facing the man.
"Or what?" Naruto questioned simply.
Hiashi paused, the man's body stiffening. What could he say? What could he do?
"...Please." Hiashi's voice was shaky now, a hint of desperation in his tone.
Naruto bowed his head and closed his eyes in thought, a heavy breath exhaling from his nose. They both shared a long silence. After a while Naruto opened his eyes into a half lidded gaze.
"Let me say goodbye." Naruto spoke in a solemn whisper.
"What?"
Naruto turned to face Hiashi, the boy's eyes narrowed.
"Do this and after this night I'll leave the academy. I won't ever visit uninvited again." Naruto proposed.
Hiashi hesitated, mulling over Naruto's proposal.
"How do I know you'll stick by that?"
"How can I ever prove to you that I'm not what you think I am if I can't even keep a promise?" Naruto questioned.
Hiashi took a moment more to think it over before nodding lightly.
"Hinata!" The man called out, his booming voice echoing through the house.
A bit of shuffling was heard and after a little while Hinata walked into the living room with her head bowed respectfully, the girl in white pajamas.
"Yes fath..." She began before going wide eyed.
"Naruto!?" She questioned, looking back and forth between the two.
"What...what's going on?" She questioned in a worried voice.
"The demon has something to say to you." Hiashi spoke up without looking towards his daughter.
Hinata sent Hiashi a mixed gaze of confusion and anger before turning a gentler gaze towards Naruto.
"What is he talking about Naru-kun?"
Naruto hesitated, seeing the girl's face made his resolve falter for a moment. His expression softened, a sad smile forming on the boy's pouty lips.
"I have to leave Hinata-chan."
A look of confusion showed on the girl's face.
"Wha...what does that mean? What are you talking about? Please tell me what's going on." Hinata spoke out in larm while taking steps towards Naruto.
"Stay away from him!" Hiashi suddenly barked out while rising to his feet.
He moved in front of Hinata, placing a hand on her shoulder and standing between her and Naruto. Hinata immediately pulled away from his grip, her Byakugan flaring, a fiery, defiant look in her eyes.
Hiashi was taken back by her rebellion, watching as she walked past him and towards Naruto.
"Hinata you WILL listen to me. I am you father." The man insisted.
Hinata only stopped when arriving in front of Naruto, the girl's eyes lingering on Hiashi for just a moment before turning her head away and focusing on Naruto now, effectively ignoring the man. Hiashi gritted his teeth in frustration.
Hinata cupped Naruto's cheeks, caressing his pretty face with a delicate touch. Naruto immediately moved his arms around her waist, securing her in a warm embrace.
"Don't touch my daughter demon!"
"Shut up!" Hinata screamed back, shooting a seething glare towards her father.
Hiashi was absolutely speechless. Hinata had never spoken to him in such a way. Was he too late? Had Naruto already corrupted his daughter? Hiashi's mind raced with these thoughts, watching the two carefully.
"Talk to me Naru-kun." Hinata spoke once again in a gentle voice towards the boy.
"I don't know how best to say this so I'll simply be blunt. I made an agreement with your father. I'm going to be leaving the academy, leaving you, at least for now. He wants to protect you and believes that growing close to a demon, for obvious reasons, is unhealthy and dangerous for his daughter." Naruto stated plainly.
"I don't care what he thinks!" Hinata exclaimed in a panic while tightening her grip around Naruto's neck.
Hiashi could hardly believe his ears, the man's fists clenching.
"He is your father Hinata and you're still a child. He loves you, he only wants to protect you." Naruto insisted.
"No. No...he only cares about the family's legacy. He doesn't care about me." Hinata whispered under her breath, the girl bowing her head.
"...Hinata." Hiashi spoke up now.
Naruto could hear the heartbreak in the man's voice.
"You're wrong." Naruto retorted, drawing her eyes to his face once again.
"He loves you dearly, I can feel it. You can feel it as well. You don't truly believe that. You Hinata, who's empathy and kindness is the reason you've grown a place in my heart, you know he loves you."
Hinata turned her eyes away.
"Even if he cares about me what does it matter if he makes me miserable? When he talks to me it's about the future, the Hyuuga line. The only time he speaks to me is to tell me how disappointed he is that I'm not living up to the Hyuuga legacy, constantly berating me for holding back in the sparring session against Hinabi. He knows how much I hate fighting her yet he makes me do it anyway. What has he done to show his love? What good is his love if all he does is cause me pain?"
Hiashi walked forward now. He placed both hands along Hinata's shoulders and forcibly turned her around, tearing her away from Naruto's grasp. Hiashi glared down to his daughter. She matched his gaze, tears welling up in her eyes but not looking away.
"How dare you? Everything I've done for you and this is what you think? Every word you speak shows your childishness. I'm am your father! How can you say these things after everything I've done for you? The life of comfort and safety I provide. Do you know how many people would kill to be in your position? You have no idea the value of what I've given you." Hiashi spoke through gritted teeth.
Hinata stared up at him with a dull gaze.
"What have you done for me that couldn't be done for a dog?" Hinata replied.
Hiashi froze.
"You give me a house, food, and teach me tricks, teach me to fight and live up to the legacy you want me to attain. When is the last time you've told me that you love me? I can't remember. If treating me like a dog is your love than I don't want it." Hinata spat out angrily.
A loud sound resounded through the living room. At the same time a flash of lightning illuminated the three.
Hinata's face recoiled from the harsh slap Hiashi gave her, a roar of thunder echoing around them a second later. Hinata raised a shaky hand to cradle her cheek, looking up at her father in disbelief. Despite how neglectful he may have been he'd never struck her or her sister. He'd barely ever touched them all, the man was distant in many ways.
"You have no idea what I've done to provide and protect you and Hinabi. Now you say this to me? You spoiled, ungrateful..." Hiashi said while raising a hand which was shaking as much as Hinata's.
The man then balled his fists and let his arms fall to his side. A defeated expression shown in his eyes as he looked to Naruto.
"Damn you." He whispered those words in a vulnerable, resentful tone.
Naruto watched in worry, still not interfering. Hinata was still dealing with the reality of her father striking her. It didn't hurt, she was stronger than that but that wasn't the point.
"I hate you." Hinata whispered under her breath.
Hiashi looked down at her daughter with a expression sadder than anything Naruto had ever seen. He remained silent, staring at her face helplessly.
"No, stop it Hinata." Naruto said with a shake of his head while quickly closing the distance between them.
Naruto stood with his side facing Hiashi, reaching a hand up to caress Hinata's cheek where Hiashi struck.
"This is not you. This is not the girl I fell in love with." Naruto stated in a solemn voice.
Hinata went wide eyed.
"Naruto?" She whispered in confusion.
"You don't hate him, you can't. This is why I have to leave. You are taking the easy route Hinata. It's easier to hate than it is to understand. He loves you more than you know, he has done unspeakingable things in order to provide a safe life for you. Why do you think he treats you so harshly?" Naruto questioned.
Hinata stayed silent, the girl nervously fidgeting now. She gave Naruto her undivided attention, hanging off of his every word. His influence on her was clear. Hiashi and Naruto saw it. She was still just a child.
"This world is terrible. People do horrible things to each other. Your father has seen the worst of it. He has seen war, entire villages destroyed and ravaged. He has two daughters, two shinobi who are going to grow up in a world where they are likely to be killed...or worse. Not only that, one of them will have the responsibility of leading the clan, to make sure that what has happened to countless others doesn't happen to her people. He knows what people are capable of." Naruto said while glancing over to Hiashi.
Hinata followed his gaze, though she couldn't look up at her father's face for long before she had to look away.
"Is he a perfect father? No? He is just a man, he makes mistakes, even now he makes mistakes. He is trying to do what he can to make sure his girls have the tools they need to thrive in this world. A world which, in his eyes, makes victims of of those with kind hearts like you. He knows first hand what this world, what people are capable of." Naruto spoke out cryptically.
Hiashi had a nervous expression, the man silently hoping Naruto would reveal too much about his past.
"When is the last time you've asked your father how he was doing?" Naruto returned his attention back to Hinata again.
Hinata stayed quiet, a small realization showing in her eyes.
"You are kind Hinata, sweet, yet you don't even remember the last time you've considered your father's feelings. Considered what your father must have gone through being a man in his position. A man who lived through two wars, who lead a clan through one of them. Despite how kind you are you haven't thought to place yourself in his shoes. You've only focused on your own pain." Naruto stated accusingly now.
Hinata was shaking now, the girl bowing her head in shame.
"Oh Gods...I'm sorry." Hinata's voice was barely audible.
Naruto shook his head.
"An apology is not what I'm seeking. I'm sure he won't apologize to you either. I just want you to understand. It is precisely this reason that you need to stay with him, you need to respect him. Hinata, I love you. I've tried not to because of the possibility of losing you, but I love you anyway. Having said that, I agree with your father. I am a demon, my life is going to be far from simple. In many ways if you stay with me it will be a final decision. You are so young, so inexperienced. This situation proves it. When you choose me it needs to be a conscious, informed choice. You simply aren't capable of that yet. You still rely on others to support you. I need to know that no matter what, you're going to be ok." Naruto explained.
Hinata was in tears now, the girl shaking her head frantically.
"Naruto...I...please don't leave me. I'll be better. I..." She was quieted by a small kiss to her lips.
Naruto pulled away from the kiss with a small smile.
"I'm not going anywhere. Not for good. We just need time. Time for you to grow and become a woman. The kind, sweet, fierce woman I know you can be. I need you to learn more about the world, learn about your father, about why he does what he does, about why he choose to treat you so harshly. Even if you never forgive him, I need you to at least respect his intention, and respect the man. I need you to show me that you are capable of thinking outside of yourself. That's why I fell in love with you Hinata-chan. Because despite everything I am, everything I've done, you saw the good in me. You've always seen the best in me despite my flaws. I ask that you try to give your father that same compassion. That doesn't mean you have to do everything he says, just...respect him as a person who loves you and cares about you, even if the way he does it causes you pain." Naruto explained.
Hinata hesitated but nodded her head in understanding, glancing back to her father. Hiashi didn't know how to feel about the situation.
"How long will I have to wait?" Hinata asked quietly.
Naruto pondered that for a moment.
"When your old enough for your father to marry you off to someone for political gain. When you can rely only on yourself, to support yourself, to defend yourself even if you no longer have a home. When you're able to buy alcohol." Naruto stated in a light hearted manner.
Hinata lead out a gasp.
"That's six years!" Hinata blurted out while shaking her head frantically. "That's too long. Please don't leave me for that long. I'll do anything, please Naruto!" The girl pleaded while clutching Naruto's face and caressing him, holding on tight.
Naruto wrapped his arms around her waist once more, tugging her close.
"If you can wait that long, when I return, I'll accept any decision you make. I want you to live your life. I don't want you to just wait for me. The world has so much to offer. Open your heart up to others. I want you to have a fulfilling experience. When I come back I will accept your answer. Yes or no. Anything can happen between now and then. You may find love. If you do then good. I just want you to be happy. If you still want me then, you'll have me, forever. What is six years in the eyes of eternity?" Naruto questioned while laying his forehead against hers.
Hinata bit into her bottom lip, dread welling up in her little body.
"How can I think about anyone else? All I want is you." Hinata whispered desperately.
Naruto smiled warmly.
"If that's true then do this for me. Please."
Hinata hesitated, staring into Naruto's beautiful purple eyes. After a long time, what seemed like eternity, she nodded.
"Ok Naru-kun. Just...say it one more time." She whispered.
Naruto understood exactly what she meant, his smile brightening, those sharp canines of his revealing themselves.
"I love you." Naruto spoke without hesitation.
"Again."
"I love you." He reiterated cheerfully.
Hinata closed her eyes and laid her head against his shoulder.
"Again."
Naruto whispered directly into her ear now.
"I love you...Hinata-chan." The boy cooed.
Hinata formed a sad smile.
"I love you too Naru-kun." She spoke out, her voice cracking as a fresh set of tears began to pour down her face.
Naruto lifted a hand to delve slender fingers into the back of her head, caressing her gently. After a moment he finally looked over to Hiashi. The man was still mulling over everything that had happened, completely at a loss. He was frozen in indecision. In his mind a demon had seduced his daughter and the demon itself was convincing her not to hate him. What could he do?"
"Thank you for giving me this chance. I know you hate me, fear me, think the worst of me so my gratitude would mean less than nothing to you. Still, you have it all the same." Naruto said before finally pulling away from Hinata.
Hinata panicked, the girl's arms returning around his neck. She clung to him desperately. Naruto couldn't help a small giggle leaving his lips.
"I made a promise Hinata-chan. I have to go." Naruto stated.
Hinata shook her head, the girl's frame shaking. She then lept forward to crash her lips against his, tasting him one last time. Her tongue darted forth, invading his mouth. Naruto was a bit surprised but didn't wait long before leaning in matching her passion.
This kiss was the most intense they'd ever shared. Uninhibited, slurping noises resounded around them. Their tongues danced and weaved about, pools of saliva dribbling messily from the side of their lips. Hinata's face was tinted bright red, she gazed upon Naruto with a lovestruck expression. If possible her grip tightened, tugging him ever closer. Hinata inhaled deeply, taking in his sweet scene. She milked Naruto of his saliva, trying to commit this moment to her memory. She kissed him as if she'd never see him again.
"Enough!" Hiashi finally yelled out from the side, grabbing Hinata's wrists and violently yanking her away from Naruto.
In her passion Hinata flared her Byakugan, the girl whipping around towards her father and looking at him with a ferocity he'd never seen before. She raised her palm to prepare for a deadly strike, her hand engulfed in a thick layer of chakra. She intended to murder him right then and there. Or at least cause him great pain. The strike was stopped before it began by Naruto grabbing her wrist, causing the girl to shift her gaze towards him.
"Hinata." Was all Naruto needed to say to calm the girl.
She let her arms fall to her side in a defeated manner. Naruto released his grip, placing both his hands against his pelvis elegantly while looking at the two. The boy gave one last sweet smile before turning around and heading for the front door. When he opened it up Hinata suddenly called out to him.
"Naruto!" She screamed pleadingly, reaching her free arm towards him desperately.
Naruto was half way out the door, the boy looking back at her sympathetically. He placed two fingers against his lips and blew her a little kiss before disappearing in a flash.
Hinata grabbed the kiss out of the air and placed it against her chest, staring at the spot where Naruto was just a moment ago.
"That is enough Hinata." Hiashi replied sternly.
Hinata sent a scornful glare up to the man, snatching her wrist from his grasp. She stared at him with scowl before walking past him towards her room.
Hiashi did nothing to stop her, simply watching the back of her head as she departed in such a disrespectful manner. He stood in that same spot for a while in silence. After a time Hiashi grew a dull expression and headed for his own room. He had a lot to think about.
Later...
Naruto stared out on the large grassy field behind his house, gazing at the lake. He was currently seated on the roof of his house, kneeling down.
"So it's done?" The familiar voice of Midnight spoke out as she approached with Sasuke at her side.
Naruto nodded silently. Midnight kneeled down to embrace Naruto from behind, pressing her cheek against his. Naruto closed his eyes and enjoyed the warm embrace.
"I wish there was a better way. I know you care about her greatly." Midnight whispered into Naruto's ear.
"I want to make sure she has all the tools she needs to be happy with her decisions. I can't think of a better way to do that besides giving her time. Admittedly I have selfish motives as well. I don't want to feel like I'm taking advantage of her. I know I'm only a year older than her but..." The boy trailed off.
Midnight nodded in understanding.
"You're an adult and she is a child. She couldn't even survive on her own. Making a decision to abandon her family for you, it would be unwise in any other situation. Of course we know she'd be happier and safer than she's ever been but others wouldn't understand. And that's what this boils down to. You still care about what humans think. If I felt for her half as much you do then there wouldn't even be a question. I'd be holding her this night. To hell with anyone who would seek to judge our love. The judgement of ignorant, hypocritical humans means nothing, less than nothing. At least that's what I'd think were I in your shoes." Midnight mused while peppering little kisses and licks idly into the side of Naruto's neck.
Naruto released a heavy sigh.
"It must be wonderful, being so certain about everything." Naruto said in a half-serious manner.
Midnight let out an amused chuckle.
"It is nice." Midnight teased.
A small pout grew on Naruto's plush lips.
"You're not helping."
"Yes I am." The girl retorted knowingly before dragging Naruto down to lay on her side with him.
She began to dote upon him, groping, kissing, and feeling up the effeminate blonde. As usual Naruto was puddy in her hands.
From the side Sasuke watched with an idle gaze. He was perfectly comfortable watching the two lovers go at it. He'd spent so much time among the demon family that this had become normal to him.
"Life for you really is so much simpler than ours." The boy spoke more to himself than anyone.
The furry black fox ears atop Midnight's head twitched upon hearing Sasuke speak. She glanced over to him, watching the boy in interest.
"It is."
Sasuke nodded at that with his eyes narrowed.
"I'm ready." He stated cryptically.
Both Midnight and Naruto now gave Sasuke their undivided attention. Naruto eyes widened in surprise, Midnight raised an eyebrow.
"Are you sure? It's so early. You'll have plenty of time to choose. You don't have to..." Naruto began.
Sasuke glanced over to the couple with a resolute expression.
"I'm ready." He reiterated.
"Well well, aren't you just full of surprises." A sultry voice spoke up.
A plume of blue fire suddenly erupted behind Sasuke. Kyuubi stepping out of the flames. Sasuke calmly rose to his feet, turning around to greet her face to face. She presented her hand to him. Without hesitation Sasuke took it and planted a kiss on the back. Kyuubi then did the same for him. Raising his hand to her lips and giving it a long smooch, her demonic purple eyes staring him down. Sasuke looked up to her with a slick smirk.
"You knew where this was leading the moment you took me in." Sasuke spoke that fact as if it were obvious.
Kyuubi took her time to plant small, sensual kisses against each of Sasuke's knuckles.
"You know what this means if you do this. There is no going back. For better or for worse." Kyuubi warned.
That cocky smirk never left the boys lips.
"Shall we begin?" He questioned.
Naruto and Midnight exchanged glances, both rising to their feet now, watching the two silently. Kyuubi matched Sasuke's smirk, the woman raising her free hand up to gently caress into the side of Sasuke's head.
"Lets."
Thanks for reading. Please review~
I hope you guys don't consider this a cliffhanger! I think it's' pretty obvious what's going to happen next. Most, if not all of the next chapter will be about it. So I feel like this is simply a good segway into the next chapter big series off events rather than a cliff hanger. Also what do you think of the whole situation between Hinata, Naruto, and Hiashi. I tried to make their reactions as believe as possible. Especially Hiashi. We didn't really get much insight into him before the timeskip in the manga so I didn't really have much to work with in terms of direction with his character. Hopefully I did his character justice. Well I hope you enjoyed! See you Wednesday!