Hi everyone happy 2020. Here is another new story Naruto that I wanted to do for fun. I read a lot of good Naruto fanfics about High School, and some are good. But I like Naruto stories where it's modern, struggles, a little dark, twists and turns. Not to mention stories where he is either bully and an orphan including deaf or mute. Those stories are good anyway I adopted this story with permission from Sadistic One. It's call Rookie 8 plus 1. However I will make a few changes to it but the plot will remain the same. The only change that I'm making is that Naruto will be Korean American including that he will be born mute by doing sign language. He will not be deaf so that won't be in my story. The bullying tone is a little different from the anime movie A Silent Voice (and a Fish Out of Water), that film (Mostly A Silent Voice) is also another reason why I wanted to write a Naruto story like this as A Silent Voice is my REAL reason and inspiration for writing this story.
As you guess it is a Naruto/Hinata story. The timeline will be in the year of 2000. All the characters will be at the age of their Shippuuden counterparts. This story will go up to 50 chapters. However I will add an Epilogue saga to the story as a treat. The Rookie 9 will be (Out of Character) such as Naruto, Hinata and Sasuke. Naruto will have Hinata's personality throughout the entire story. Whereas Hinata will have Naruto's personality.
Sorry I forgot to remove the word almost in my first sentence (at the top of the page) when I had released chapter 3.
Key Words of my story: Naruto's era is at modern peaceful times, however there will only be martial arts in the story. There is nothing about chakra, no tail beasts, no kages, no ninja ranks, no super powers and no missions. Just a normal Naruto center Japan. This story is nothing like Kishimoto's ninja theme story. So for anyone thinking that I am making these characters be ninja your dead wrong.
Thank you KingRaptor582, JaguarSupreme, GreatOniiSama, Screamgleek, BlazingVictini09, The British Fox, Kraygar, Girl On Ice 101, HoneyWriter78, KingRaptor582, EmetMehmet, lord 7th, StarlingWolf, RonanTheAccuser, Penguin Lord0029, Mad-eye-93, Bigrob1945, dipbrad, Ichiharu93, kotei no seiryuu, Blake Craig 39, skyjadeprincess, MoBamba, RaudomGny, Sreyashi Saha, The Broken Tool, Zolpark 777, steve o 62, Kirmihake3124, beastgod669, InoYamanaka & Kirmihake3124 for favoriting my story.
Only 1,987 views total so far for the story. Chapter one got 1081 views while chapter two got 328 views. Whereas chapter three got 194 views, chapter four got 145 views, chapter five got 175 views and chapter six got 64 views.
Thank you Bigrob1945, BlazingVictini09, EmetMehmet, HopeMaru, Ichiharu93, KingRaptor582, Kraygar, Penguin Lord0029, RonanTheAccuser, Screamgleek, StarlingWolf, Blake Craig 39, dipbrad, jsplock, Lilmspayne, Girl On Ice 101, lord 7th, zolpark777, GaiaDragonSlayer, kotei no seiryuu, Wondering Knight, Offthechain91, Pa Pa Paprika, steve o 62, MoBamba, skyjadeprincess, nacho-libre666,InoYamanaka & Kirmihake3124 for following my story.
Thank you Lord 7th for reading the story. I agree with you most Naruto fanfic stories are sad to read, and sometimes I forget about that too. I'm happy you enjoyed chapter 6. Hopefully this chapter will be enjoyable for you too.
I will also write a post Boruto timeline for this story when I finish my story. I am also thinking of writing a prequel to this story as well. The post Boruto story and prequel will be added to this story so that way I don't have to make another story profile.
Summary: Naruto Uzumaki received a scholarship to attend the prestigious Konoha High. This is a one and a lifetime opportunity for him, but he's homeless and poor not mention that he was born mute and is Korean American. The students constantly pick on him, however a group known as the Rookie 8 comes along to protect him. However, it doesn't stop him from attempting suicide. After waking up from a coma, he wakes up to find out that he'll be living with one of them. Read along and watch Naruto as he grows fond of his new friends, rivalry, a new lifestyle and most of all love and acceptance to love himself.
Cast
1. Naruto: voiced by Johnny Yong Bosch (in his mind)
2. Hinata: voiced by Stephanie Sheh
3. Hitomi: voiced by Lydia Mackay
4. Hiashi: voiced by John Demita
5. Hanabi: voiced by Colleen O'Shaughnessey
6. Neji: voiced by Steve Staley
7. Hajime: voiced by Amanda Miller
8. Margaret: voiced by Janice Kawaye
9. Sasuke: voiced by Yuri Lowenthal
10. Sakura: voiced by Kate Higgins
11. Ino: voiced by Colleen O'Shaughnessey
12. Kiba: voiced by Kyle Hebert
13. Shikamaru: voiced by Tom Gibis
14. Choji: voiced by Robbie Rist
15. Shino: voiced by Derek Stephen Prince
16. Tenten: voiced by Danille Judovits
17. Melody: voiced by Lucy Liu
18. Suka: voiced by Greg Chun
19. Erika: voiced by Erika Ishii
20. Kita: voiced by Wendee Lee
21. Tsunade: voiced by Debi Mae West
22. Shizune: voiced by Megan Hollingshead
23. Asuma: voiced by Doug Erholtz
24. Kurenai: voiced by Mary Elizabeth McGlynn
25. Mystery Person: voiced by Johnny Yong Bosch
26. The World Touranment Announcer: voiced by Eric Vale
27. Omoi: voiced by Ogie Banks
28. Karui: voiced by Danielle Nicolet
29. Zaku: voiced by Sam Riegel
30. Hibachi: voiced by Stephanie Nadolny
31. Inari: voiced by Mona Marshall
Now on with the story
Chapter 7 Title: Similarities and Vacation
Today was Friday July 10, 2000
Naruto fidgeted with his magenta necktie. He was standing in front of the mirror getting ready for school as he was deep in thought about yesterday's events. Hitomi cried and he was grounded starting today for keeping his cutting a secret. He is grounded for 5 days as he has to help Hanabi with her homework for 3 days. He was unsure if he should leave the house on the weekends. Besides he was ashamed because it was his own fault, something he regrets (since he did it on his day off from school after getting drug and sick) and he didn't blame her for scolding him. If anything he was happy that Hitomi treated him like a equal just like eveyone else. But he just couldn't compare her to Biwako as the two are completely different.
Not to mention that he kept his promise that he would never do it again. He even showed her his point by vowing on his hands and knees. He also kept his promise that he would tell Hitomi and Hiashi everything now, even if it was something that he needs to help him stop thinking about suicide. And starting tonight he has to help Hanabi with whatever subject she is strugging with. Hitomi had came in eariler to bandage up his right wrist. As he recalls her telling him to tell everyone that he got injure from falling on shatter glass. It was a horrible lie but as long as everyone brought it then it was fine with him. He was just happy that only Hitomi and Hiashi knows about him cutting his wrist. Besides he didn't want anyone else finding out about it.
It pained him when he saw the look Hitomi had on her face yesterday, the shock and the hurt. Naruto never wanted to see that look ever again on anyone's face in this family. In the end he was trying to get along with everyone in this family as he got along with Hinata, Hiashi, Margaret and Hitomi. He was trying to communicate with Neji, Hanabi and of course Hajime.
He exhaled while getting his bookbag. Things weren't so bad now. He finally found a new family that cares about him, friends that won't abandon him, and is back to doing something he loves (kung fu and track). It was everything he honestly dreamed of and no one couldn't take it away from him.
Suddenly a knock on his door interrupted him from his thoughts. He opened the door and saw little Hanabi standing there. He was a little taken back because he never socialized with her or her little brother. Ok he was also trying to socialize with Neji too. However that all changes starting today.
"Good morning, Naruto-kun" she said as she smiled brightly.
"Good morning, Young-" Naruto signed with his hands.
"Call me Hanabi-chan, ok Naruto Onii-chan" she said as she giggled.
Naruto couldn't help but blush by being call big brother.
'Isn't Neji her brother' Naruto said in his mind.
Nevertheless he nods his head.
"You ready for school?" she asked him.
Naruto nodded. "Yes, I was wondering if you wanted me to help with your homework after school today" he said to her in sign language with a smile on his face.
Hanabi shouts out in a happy way by saying, "Yes I do need help with my homework. I'm having problems with History and I can't understand it".
Naruto then signs with his hands while showing a smirk by saying, "Your in luck. I read a lot about Eastern and Western culture so you'll be able to pass the class without a problem".
Hanabi then happily hugs Naruto in respond and he returns the hug by embracing her.
Hanabi then let's go and says to him, "Naruto Onii-chan, do you have a crush on my sister? You are shy and a little confident whenever you are with her". She then crossed her arms and says to him. "So why? What do you see in her?".
Naruto eyes went wide when he heard that. He didn't know how to explain about his crush to a little kid. But in the end he saw Hinata as the polar opposite of him, which is why he is jealous of her. However he looked up to her because of her personality and confidence which was something that he lacked, and he smiles while thinking about it.
Hanabi looks at him in confusion as he signs to her saying, "It's hard to explain but I want to be more than just her friend".
She is more confuse as she said to him, "You never had a crush on someone before?".
Naruto shakes his head. He signs to her saying, "This is my first time having a crush on someone. But I hope she can see the signs that I'm giving her".
"What are you doing up here? Breakfast is ready" Hinata approached the two.
"Hanabi-chan, what are you up to?" Hinata said as she gave her the side-eye that Naruto seemed to miss.
Hanabi smirked as she grabbed onto Naruto's arm.
"I'm spending time with Naruto Onii-chan after school because he's helping me with my homework" she said as she stuck her tongue out.
"Naruto Onii-chan?" Hinata whispered. Her face then turned red as she said, "Naruto isn't comfortable living with us yet since it's only been a few weeks. But you s-s-shouldn't bother Naruto-kun with that word. He barely knows you".
"Why not? And he's starting to get to know us better day by day a little" Hanabi replied by looking at him. She then said with confidence, "He's apart of the family now and therefore he's my Onii-chan too. Just as much as Neji is to you". Hanabi couldn't help but grin when she saw the look on Hinata's face. She tilted her head to the side saying to Hinata, "Onee-chan Shouldn't you call Naruto, Onii-chan too since he's older than you?".
Naruto faces turned every shade of red. He then let's go of Hanabi.
Then he signed to her by saying, "No, Naruto Oniichan. Naruto is fine".
"I-I-I'm going downstairs for breakfast! See you downstairs" Hinata said as she turned on her heels to run downstairs in a hurry.
Hanabi's eyes flinched. She said to him, "Naruto Onii-chan. You were eating dinner with your left hand yesterday and you did the same thing the other day too. Is everything alright?".
"Oh, I had got injure from falling on shatter glass. Which was why I been using my left hand for two days" he said in sign language while trying to avoid her eyes.
Hanabi nods her head saying, "Oh ok. That explains it. Especially if you're going to lead our school to victory you need to eat more. Can't having you passing out". She held his arm as she happily says to him, "Let's go. Everyone's waiting".
"Ah, let me get my pendant necklace" Naruto told her in sign language. She turned around and let's go of his arm. Her eyes widened slightly when she saw his right wrist with bandages.
He entered his room and grabbed the pendant from the study desk and stepped out.
"Ready?" he signed to her with his hands.
Hanabi was in a tranced, but once seeing his face she cracked a smile.
"Hai" she said in return.
Naruto followed her down the stairs and entered the dining area. He felt nervous as it was a little scary since he had spoken to Hiashi. He wonders if Hitomi had told Hiashi about him cutting his right wrist.
"Look whose joining us" Hitomi said as she smiled.
Hiashi glanced over his shoulder from the newspaper he was looking at and he smiled. "Hello Naruto" he said while folding the paper.
He sat down next to Hinata, while Hajime sat across from him.
"Good morning" Naruto signed to everyone.
"Morning" Neji said while eating.
"Good morning, Naruto-kun" Hitomi beamed in joy.
"Good morning" Hinata silently mumbled.
"Good morning!" Hanabi grinned at Hinata who angrily glared at her.
"Good morning" Hiashi said as he ate the fish.
Everyone turned to Hajime who was staring back at them.
He sighed and said "G-good morning".
Hajime's face turned red and he frowned as everyone was looking at him.
Margaret placed a plate of food in front of him.
"Thank you Margaret san" he said to her in sign language.
"Your welcome" she said with a smile on her face.
"Naruto-kun, did they announce who made the track team yet? I know your still practicing, but the school haven't said anything yet?" Hitomi asked in curiosity.
"I think we'll find out on Monday" Naruto told her in sign language before he ate some more rice.
"I just know you'll make the team. Neji, Hanabi, and Hajime saw you during tryouts" Hitomi said in order to embarrass Hajime.
"You all saw me?" Naruto said in sign language while freaking out.
Neji then said with a smirk, "It was after school hours so it made sense to see the tryouts".
Hinata said while eating, "I'm just happy Suka didn't make it to the team. The guys a jerk".
Hajime said in his mind, 'Big deal. It's not like the shitty Korean could do anything else'.
"I didn't know Naruto Onii-chan was so fast" Hanabi said with excitment. "We'll actually win this year thanks to you" she said while making a fist.
Naruto couldn't help but blush by the comment. "Thank you" he said to them in sign language.
"Hey, Hinata-chan. Can I talk to you before you leave?" Hanabi said by getting up from the table.
Hinata sighed. "I don't want to be late for school Hanabi. Can it wait until I get home?" she said to her little sister.
"No It can't. I want to speak to you right now" Hanabi said in angry voice.
Naruto glanced at Hanabi who only smiled at him. He wonders what they wanted to talk about. In fact everyone wanted to know why Hanabi wanted to speak to Hinata.
"Don't worry it's about girl stuff" she said as she laughed nervously.
'That explains it' said in the minds of Hiashi, Hitomi, Neji, Margaret and Naruto.
"I'll meet you outside, Naruto-kun" Hinata said before taking her leave.
Naruto nodded as he made his way outside.
Hinata crossed her arms. "What is it?" she said.
Hanabi stepped up to her, and there was a sad look in her eyes. Hinata even noticed it and was shocked because it was rare to see Hanabi so sad.
"Are you okay?" she asked her.
Hanabi shook her head and a little teardrop came out of her right eye.
"Did anyone hurt you?" Hinata asked as she gripped Hanabi's left arm.
It didn't make sense. They were just in there eating breakfast not too long ago and the little girl didn't seem to be angry or sad.
"It's about Naruto Onii-chan" Hanabi said in a whisper.
Hinata felt her heart skip a beat.
"Did Naruto-kun hurt you?" she asked in worry.
Hanabi shook her head furiously.
"What No" she angrily said as she pouted.
"Then what is it? What about him?" Hinata said in an impatient way.
"Is he going to kill himself?" Hanabi said in a worried way.
"What are you two talking about?" Hajime said in annoyance.
He glared at Hanabi. "Didn't dad said he didn't want to discuss anything related to it and that we should just leave it alone?" he said to his second older sister.
"But there were bandages on his right wrist…" she said as she trailed off.
Hajime eyes widened. "Bandages?" he said in confusion.
Hinata sighed at her younger siblings. Being the oldest was stressful sometimes.
"Look you two Naruto-kun will be fine" she said in a kind tone.
"How do you know? He barely talks to me, Neji and Hajime" Hanabi whispered in a sad tone.
"I know he'll be fine because he has all of us now" Hinata said confidently. "Look we'll help him so don't make him feel otherwise alright" she said to Hanabi. Hinata turned to Hajime and said, "I know how you feel about Naruto-kun, Hajime but don't-".
Hajime glared at her.
"What the hell do you know! You don't know anything about how me and Hanabi feel" he argued in anger.
He shoved his hands into his pant pockets and walked away.
Hinata sighed in frustration. "What's gotten into him. He used to be a lot nicer before we met Naruto" she said while looking at him walk away.
Hanabi gazed to the floor which Hinata noticed. "What is it?" she said while looking at her.
"He's upset because a close friend of his almost committed suicide and his friend had to move to the U.S because of it. Just don't tell him I told you that" Hanabi muttered in a sad tone.
Hinata was taken back. "Wait, what? How come I didn't know about any of this?" she said in shock and confusion.
"Nobody in school knows. I just overheard the conversation he had with Sugi-kun a few days ago" Hanabi said as she wiped her eye. "But Naruto Onii-chan will be alright?" she said in more concern.
"He will because he has a strong will to fight on" Hinata said as she whispered in Hanabi's ear.
The two then leave to go to school.
"I am so tired" Kiba said stretching out his arms. "We have practice today and I am sore all over" he said in annoyance.
Shino then said to him in annoyance, "Deal with it. Because you wanted to do this".
Kiba then shouts out to him saying, "Oh Shut Up Bug boy. No one asked you".
While Hinata saw that Naruto was trying his hardest to not get too much attention. As the boy kept writing his reponds to them on paper.
It was study hall as the rookie 8 and some other classmates huddled over to Naruto's table to chat.
"They are just trying to be his friend now since he has money" Erika said as she laughed. "Aren't you mad he took your glory?" she said as she gazed at Suka.
"Shut up Erika" he grumbled in anger. "They just pity him. The damn charity case" he said in anger.
"Did his parents abandon him or something?" Erika said as she turned to Kita.
"Why is he living with the Hyugas?" she said in confusion.
Kita shrugged and said, "I don't know. It's a mystery".
Erika eyes the blonde hair boy suspiciously and smirked.
She said to them, "Don't worry. We'll find out soon enough".
Melody then said with a grin, "Oh yes we will".
Meanwhile Hiashi and Hitomi were searching for information about Naruto's parents. Hitomi was in town as she was talking to Rin. They were doing a straight to the point chit chat. And Rin had gave some answers to Hitomi's questions. But the responses did add up to what Hitomi was thinking. While Hiashi was talking to Asuma at the Sarutobi orphange. He had gotten Naruto's birth certificate and the stuff that Hitomi was asking for. The stuff his wife was looking for was job occuption files, passports, and journal entries. But he was only able to find the stuff that belonged to Naruto's mother. Everything was finally turning around for them.
It was nightime and Naruto was helping Hanabi with her history homework. The two were in Hanabi's bedroom. Hanabi's room was different from Hinata's as the young girl favored red over violet. It was room that was huge but it was similar to the size's of Hinata's room. Hanabi had more action merchandise as she favored action movies.
Hanabi and Naruto were sitting at the study desk. As Hanabi was trying her hardest to get the gasp of history. But Hanabi couldn't hide how angry she was at the subject. And Naruto could tell that Hanabi was about to throw a tantrum.
"This is so hard. How could anyone memorize all of this stuff?!" she said in rage.
Naruto in a sheeshly way signed to her with his hands saying, "It is tough but it's all about learning different cultures and understanding how much of a impact it has on others".
Hanabi was more confuse about his response.
Naruto then says to her in sign language in a easy way, "Think of your favorite movies. And how it has a vibe, message and culture behind it. And that's history".
Hanabi then had a spark in her eyes as she said to him, "I get it now! It makes doing my homework more easy now".
Naruto then smiles as he thought in his mind, 'Well she could have looked for the history answers in her textbook. But wording it in a different way with something she likes is also true'.
Out of no where Hanabi hugged him and this shocked Naruto.
Hanabi smiles while saying, "Thank you for helping me". Naruto smiles in respond as Hanabi didn't let go of him.
Hanabi finally let's go of him. As Naruto gets up to take his leave a certain question stops him in his tracks.
"What's it like to be different?" Hanabi said while looking at him in sadness.
"What do you mean?" Naruto said to her in sign language as he was confuse.
"I mean what's it like being half American? Even though you look 100% Korean" Hanabi said while looking at him.
Naruto looks at her in sadness as he felt conflicted on answering her questions. Questions that he himself had always wanted an answer too. But he smiled at her by using a fake smile.
He said to her in sign language, "I don't know. But I always was being bullied for being different. And I'm just upset for not standing up for myself. Especially since I still don't know who I am as a person".
Hanabi then yells out saying, "But you are a person with emotions. Especially because your trying to change for the better. Including that you have us now to help you".
Naruto then smiled by showing a smile as he can see that this family really is trying to help him. But he still wanted to know more about himself.
He continues in sign language by saying, "Yes that is true. But my problem is that I want to know who my parents were. And why did they abandon me. That's the answers that I'm looking for".
Hanabi then started to cry as she can see how serious he is. But she was shock when Naruto gave her a hug that was warm inside.
She then said as she tries to stop crying, "Don't you like us? And can't you see how serious we are trying to communicate with you?".
Naruto smiles as he signs, "I do like you guys and I am grateful that you took me in. But I need to know more about my parents so I can understand who I am as a person".
Hanabi then wipes her eyes as she said to him, "But why? I know nothing about you and you barely talk to me".
Naruto then signs to her saying, "I know I have a hard time communicating with you guys. But I promise that I will spend more with you tommorrow".
Hanabi then smiles as she said, "Can we go to the park tomorrow?".
Naruto then blushed as he signs to her, "I'll ask Hitomi if it's ok".
Hanabi then nods her head as Naruto takes his leave.
It's now Saturday July 11, 2000.
Naruto had asked Hitomi if he can take Hanabi to the park as she wanted to spend time with him. Hitomi said it was good idea as she didn't want him in the house all day on the weekends. Naruto thanked her and so here he was at the park. But as luck would have it Hinata and Neji also wanted to come so nothing unusual wouldn't happen.
Hinata was looking at how Hanabi was trying to catch butterflies. While Neji was sitting on the grass as he looks at a lake. However Naruto was trying to make sure that Hanabi would release the butterflies from the net. But he kept falling which was funny to Hanabi. Not to mention that he was getting dirty because of all the dirt. Naruto then starts to tickle Hanabi by making her laugh even more.
Sakura and Ino had came as they told them that the rest of the boys were doing something with their families. The three girls saw that Hanabi was being chased by Naruto as the two were running after Hanabi got tickle. It was obivous that the two were playing cops and robbers. Ino thought that it looked like a cartoon show. Sakura said that she likes seeing Hanabi this happy. While Hinata smiles as she sees that Naruto is spending some time with Hanabi. However Hinata also wished that Hajime could do the same.
The day went by and everyone went home. At dinner Hanabi was telling her mother what a great day she had. As Hiashi saw that Hajime was more distant with Naruto then before. Nevertheless Hitomi thanked Naruto for getting Hanabi out of the house as Naruto told her that it wasn't a problem because it was his and Hanabi's idea.
That night everyone went to sleep while Naruto was writing about the great day he had in his journal.
It's Sunday July 12, 2000.
It was raining so everyone wanted to figure out if they should go outside or stay in doors. Not to mention that Hiashi and Hitomi had a day off from work.
"It think we should go to the movies" Hajime said while being bore.
Hanabi then said in anger, "You want to go just to see something related to horror".
Hajime then shouted back, "No I don't. I want to see something comedy related".
Hinata then said in delight, "We should go to the spa. So we can relax from the stress of school".
Neji then said, "I actually agree with Hinata. Because I am getting tire of Lee calling me".
Hanabi then said, "At least it's better then Hajime's idea".
Hajime then said in rage, "Why You!?".
Hitomi then said in a strict tone, "Hajime calm down".
Hajime then went quiet after hearing his mother.
Hiashi then thought about it as it made sense.
Naruto then said to them in sign language while blushing, "I think it's fine because I want to see what yoga or meditation is like".
Hinata then shouts out in joy, "The spa it is".
Eveyone got into the vehicle and had drived to a spa. The spa wasn't crowed as Hinata and Hitomi got a mud bath. While Naruto and Neji went to do some meditation. While Hiashi went to get a massage. Whereas Hajime and Hanabi have went to get a bath in a bathhouse. Everyone was having fun as they had joined the bath house too. Hiashi was asking Neji about the meditation seesion. Neji told him that it was good as he saw that it helped Naruto ease up a bit. Whereas Hajime refused to talk to Naruto even when the boy was trying to connect with him.
Night time came and everyone was in their bedroom. They had left the spa around 6pm. Everyone came and took showers. At dinner the girls were asking the boys what they did. But Hitomi could tell that Hajime didn't connect with Naruto. While Naruto had told Hitomi that he wanted to do meditation more often. Hitomi was happy for the blonde but she wished to know why Hajime didn't like Naruto.
After dinner everyone had went to sleep. While Naruto was writing in his journal. Whereas Hitomi and Hiashi was talking about what information they found about Naruto's parents.
It was Monday July 13, 2000.
Hitomi had summoned Naruto to her husband's private study.
His stomach twisted into knots and his heart was fill with eagerness. He knew that he was no longer grounded starting the day after tomorrow. However he still wanted to help Hanabi with her history homework.
Hitomi had told him some interesting information. He jumped from the chair in excitement.
A soft smile graced her face as she hinted the boy's excitement. She said while smiling, "Yes, we had started searching for your parents last saturday. We are still trying to find some info but we felt it was best to tell you now".
"He then jumped in the air in excitment. Hitomi was surprise by the sudden outburst from the boy.
"S- Sorry" he stuttered in sign language while going back to being shy. "But Please do this. I always wanted to know who my parents were for a long time now" he signed with his hands while being serious.
"Don't worry Naruto-kun. We will find them" she said while smiling.
Her eyes looked at him, then his wrist as she said to him in a strict tone, "You better promise me that you'll never do that again".
Naruto nodded enthusiastically in respond. "I promise. I won't do that anymore". His mind flashed back to the memories of when he saw her cry. He said to her in sign language, "I promise".
Hitomi stared into his blue eyes, and she couldn't help but smile. She then said to him "Ok you can leave now".
After the discussion, Naruto stepped out of Hiashi's office. He didn't know how to feel. There were so many emotions inside of him. He was going to know who his father and mother were and would soon know which one he took after more.
"Naruto-kun" the intruder startled him which caused him to jump in fright.
"I'm sorry!" Hinata said. "Are you okay?" she asked.
"I'm fine. You just scared me just now" he said in sign language as his heart beated.
"Are you ready to go?" Hinata questioned. "I know you been practicing in track, but today is the day your going to find out whether or not you made the team" she said to him in concern.
"Yeah I'm ready" Naruto replied in sign language. He then thought in his mind, 'Hinata-chan, Hitomi-sama told me they are going to find out who my parents were'. He couldn't contain his excitement any longer.
Hinata twirled around and saw that Naruto smiling brightly; a smile that was rare for her to see. She thought in her mind, 'Wonder why he's so happy. Usually he's quiet and shy. But this is new'.
His face glowed with excitement and he couldn't stop himself from smiling.
At school, Hinata watched Naruto like a hawk as he was taking out his school supplies. A white letter fell on to the floor again, and Hinata picked it up. She wanted nothing more than to throw the damn thing in the trash as she already knew what it was.
"Naruto-kun, you have been getting a lot of love letters lately, huh?" she said in worrisome.
Naruto eyes lingered to the white slip between her fingers, and his cheeks became reddened.
He said to her in sign language "Just throw it away. I'm not interested. It's been a while, but this is my second one so far". He was now taking out his textbooks.
"Aren't you curious to see who it's from?" she said as she eyed him. Hinata gave him the white envelope and he reluctantly took it.
"No. I told you I'm not intereste" Naruto replied in sign language, before shutting the locker. He now shutted his locker.
"Do you have someone else in mind?" Hinata asked, as her eyes never left his.
She'd looked calm on the outside, but the inside she was panicking, and she couldn't explain it.
There was a moment of silence between the two. It was as if time had stopped and the only sound they could be heard were the two hearts beeping. Their eyes never looked away, and he wanted say something but they were interrupted when Kiba marched in between the two. He held the paper in front of Naruto's face, blocking Hinata's view.
"Guess who made the damn team" Kiba said, grinning like a mad man. While Hinata wanted to punch him.
Naruto grabbed the paper from Kiba and went down the list.
"Move it Kiba!" Hinata said pushing him out of the way by making Kiba fall on his butt.
"Naruto-kun, you made it!" she said in happiness.
He nodded his head while blushing.
"You don't look excited?" Hinata said while tilting her head to the side.
Naruto brought down the paper sheepishly and smiled at her.
Deep down inside he was happy for making the team, but that couldn't overthrow the feeling he was having due to the news he'd received earlier from Hitomi.
Kiba eyes widened when he saw the white slip in Naruto's hand.
"Yo!" he said while snatching it from Naruto. "Is this a love letter? It's probably from that Bitch Melody" he said while looking at Naruto in disbelief.
"Kiba!" Hinata angrily growled as she tried to snatch the paper from him, but Kiba held it up in the air.
"Please tell me you are not going to check if it's Melody" he said as his chocolate eyes gazed at Naruto as a huge grin spread across his face.
Naruto shrugged as he said in sign language "No just throw it away".
Kiba stared into his blue eyes and saw a flash of annoyance and not being interested.
"Ah well" he said mashing the letter and throwing it in the trash.
Hinata gazed at Kiba coolly and she smiled slightly because she wanted to do that herself.
It was like a new turn for him. The day went by smoothly, and not a dark cloud in his mind. He smiled along with the rookie 8 and tried his hardest in his classes.
The last class of the day was long. Some of the student's heads bobbed to the side, and one kid even banged his head on the desk before waking up. Naruto glanced out the square window and stared at the bright blue sky. A few white clouds floated, and the sun beamed brightly. There were a few birds flying in the distance and his eyes just followed them.
He rested the side of his cheek on the palm of his left hand and continued to stare out the window.
He nearly jumped out of his seat when he heard his phone buzz into his pocket. He glanced at the message that popped on his screen.
Ino: I say we celebrate Next Friday at Asakusa in Tokyo to celebrate Naruto, Sasuke and Kiba making the team.
Sakura: I'm down for it. I was thinking we can also we check in at a hotel in Okubo, Japan.
Choji: Sounds like fun! The food there is terrific!
Kiba: Man I wanted to visit Akihabara, Japan to look at anime material. You gon' pay for my room? -smirk face-
Ino: Yeah, I have a doghouse that's perfect just for you. -roll eyes emoji-
Sasuke: I'm down for it. I mean with practice starting next week and a track tournament approaching I think we're going to be very busy.
Shikamaru: Troublesome I guess I can join.
Shino: Perfect time to collect some new bug samples.
Kiba: Shino I forgot you were in this group chat.
Hinata: Sounds like a plan! Naruto you wanna come?
Naruto swallowed the lump in his throat. He had never stepped foot out of Konoha, and here they were making plans to travel to Tokyo next week for a celebration.
Kiba: Of course, he's down with it Hina! He made the fucking team!
Kiba: We got to go all out before hell week.
Sasuke: What did dog boy just said. I'm confuse.
Kiba: Shut up you Uchiha who has too many fangirls.
Naruto: Sounds like fun. But I wanna ask Hitomi if we can bring Hanabi along as well.
Ino: Woot! Yes! Good thing you guys said yes because I already made the reservations this morning.
Naruto couldn't help but smile at the thought of going to a resort in Japan. This was all so new to him, and the excitement swelled his heart.
Students surrounded themselves all around him more and even spoke to him which was surprising at first. He thought this was some part of a cruel joke or a prank, but they wanted to actually get to know him more.
Orochimaru stopped bothering him, which he was grateful for because he just always gave him the creeps. And now he was stepping out of Konoha to go on a trip with his "friends" to Tokyo. A part of him was nervous because of the last time he spent with them and didn't want to go through that again.
He looked down at his phone and saw a message from Sasori.
Sasori: Hey, Naruto. How are you doing?
Naruto: I'm doing fine! It's been a while since we've last spoken to each other.
Sasori: Yes It has been. I just wanted to check on you and see how you are doing.
Naruto: I'm fine.
Naruto eyes widened when he saw the next text.
Sasori: Are you sure? You been on my mind for 9 days now.
Naruto swallowed the lump in his throat as he read the message over.
Naruto: I kind of did something… bad. But I'm better now! And I won't do it again…
Sasori: I'll pick you up this afternoon so we can talk about it.
Naruto: No… We can chat on the phone. I'm busy today.
Sasori: What do you want to talk about?
Naruto: I'll text you about it after school.
Naruto rested his head on the table and sighed mentally. He didn't want Sasori to be upset with him, but he couldn't lie to him. Then he felt his face flustered. He also didn't want to see him today.
'He's been thinking about me?' he said in his mind.
School ended and practice was canceled until next Monday.
The Rookie 8 + 1 was walking towards a gate they all say goodbye and went their seperate ways. Some walked home while others took a car. Hinata was listening to music on her phone while Naruto was texting Sasori.
Text Message chat
Naruto: Ok Here's what I wanted to tell you.
Sasori: What is it? What did you do?
Sasori: I know you said it was bad.
Naruto: I don't want you to be angry at me. I been making people worry about me lately.
Naruto: I cutted my right wrist. I'm not lying.
Sasori: Why would you do that?!
Naruto: I was being stupid and I wasn't thinking… so I made a horrible decision that I regret.
Naruto: But I'm sorry. And I won't do it again. I promise!
Sasori: Naruto I want to believe you. But once you start something it's hard to control and stop.
Naruto: I won't do it anymore. And I meant it as I promised Hitomi.
Sasori: I'm glad she's looking out for you. But just tell someone your problems before it gets worse.
Naruto: Don't worry I will. Anyway I gotta go.
Naruto: Bye
Sasori: Bye
Night time came and Naruto had helped Hanabi finish her history homework. He can tell that she actually has been getying good at memorizing history. As he had questioned her on some facts. The answers he got were close but he was happy that she didn't slack off on the subject. But he was really happy that Hanabi is serious about learning.
He got to know Hanabi as a person. He found out that she was completely different from Hinata as she like to do fashion and try to design clothes. But he was curious as to why he couldn't get along with Hajime. Naruto wanted to know why the boy hated him so much.
After that Naruto goes into his room to write more into his journal. As he wanted to think about what goes on in Hajime's mind. One thing is for sure he was happy that he kept putting dates in his journal.
It was now Tuesday July 14, 2000.
Today was Naruto's last day of being grounded. He had woke up to do a morning run. While he was running he thought about how he has gottening along with most of the Hyuga family. However he still need to get along with Neji and Hajime. He wonders what kind of stuff they are into. But at the same time he wanted to see what they usually do after school as he knows that Hanabi is in the anime club. He was happy that Asuma wanted him to come to the gym tonight. As he recalls that he hasn't been to the gym since the day he reconnected with Sasori.
He continues running as it was 6:30am. He decides to head back to the house as he didn't want to be late for school. When he gets back home he takes a shower and puts on his school uniform. He decides to listen to his cds to pass the time. At 7:30am he goes down stairs to see breakfast being made by Margaret. He sits down and a few minutes later everyone else came down.
Everyone was actually shock to see that Naruto is the first one downstair since the boy was usually the last one to come downstairs.
Hitomi said in shock, "Naruto your actually down here before us. This is really shocking".
Naruto blushes as he signed to her in language, "Sorry I didn't want to wake anyone up after I came back from my morning run".
Hajime scoffs at the respond that the blonde gave them, "What? So your gonna do this for the rest of the year?".
Naruto shrugged his shoulders as he didn't know if he wanted this to be a routine for him. It made sense to him as he had to go to the gym tonight.
Hinata hits Hajime on the head as she said to Naruto, "Well I think it's a good idea. That your getting exercise before school".
Hanabi smiles while saying, "Yeah besides I think running could be a new hobby for you Naruto Oniichan".
Naruto felt embarrassed upon being call Oniichan. He just didn't want everything to be too formal.
Neji then sits and says, "Well I am curious to see how long you can run".
Naruto then responded by signing, "I never actually time how long I can run. But I do calculate how many blocks I can run".
Margaret then smiles while handing everyone their foods. She then said, "Eat up everyone!".
Everyone nods their heads as the eat thrir food.
Soon after Neji is the first to leave. Then Hanabi and Hsjime take their leave. At 7:55am Naruto and Hinata take their leave.
As Naruto and Hinata were leaving Hitomi thought in her mind, 'He hasn't been showing signs of negative thoughts. And he hasn't been acting weird since I grounded him last friday. It's good that he's starting to chsnge a little bit. But still...'.
Hitomi then said to her husband while getting her briefcase, "I think I should make an appointment for him to see Tsunade on tomorrow".
Hiashi then says to her in confusion, "Why? I get that he hasn't seen her since after he got drunk. And he hasn't been having problems in school. Plus he has been getting along with Hanabi".
Hitomi sighs as she said to him, "Look I'm happy that he hasn't been thinking about cutting himself. And I get that track has been keeping him busy. But what I really want to know is what Naruto has been experiencing before he started cutting himself".
Hiashi then sighs to her saying, "I get it. He promised that he will tell us everything. But give him a chance, and he will talk to us eventually. And don't go reading his journal, I'm telling you this for your own good".
Hitomi then looks sad as she said, "I know and I wasn't even planning to look at his journal. However what does he really think of us? Does he really see us as his family".
Hiashi then smiles as she said to her, "Look it's how I tell Naruto. Just focus on the positive and don't think about the negative. Besides the meditation did work when we went to the spa".
Hitomi then smiles as she said to him, "Your right and I can tell that Naruto is the type of person that doesn't like to keep a secret".
And with that the two walk off to go work.
At school Naruto was in study hall. He had notice that Sasori was giving him some space since he hasn't been texting him. Naruto felt it was a good thing as he was spending more time with his friends and his new family. However he had notice that he didn't have a lot of panic attacks due to him focusing on his school work, track and keeping up with his kung fu. He also notice that he didn't have any panic attacks after he vowed that he wouldn't cut his wrist anymore. It felt odd to him. Naruto had also notice that Hitomi had looked stress out for some reason.
He was happy that she and Hiashi are looking for his parents but he felt that Hitomi was a little sad since she was trying to spend more time with everyone. He understands her work schedule and he loves her like the mother he never had; but he wonders if she thinks that he doesn't see her as his mother. In reality he didn't know how to tell them.
He saw Neji as his older brother even though he wanted to connect with him and he only saw Hinata as his best friend. However he also has a crush on her so he also saw her as his girlfriend. He saw Hanabi and Hajime as his little siblings while he took notes to see how Hinata acts around them. It made sense because he saw that being a big brother was more complicated then he thought.
But Naruto heard a beep on his phone as he was interrupted from his thoughts. He takes out his phone to see that Hinata was only texting him. This actually surprised him as he sees that their friends were chatting out loud. Naruto also saw that Kakashi was reading something inappropriate so he starts texing her.
Text Message:
Hinata: Naruto are you alright? You looked like you were spacing out.
Naruto: Heh I'm fine and I was just thinking about some things.
Hinata: Wanna talk. I can see that Kakashi-sensei is being lazy.
Naruto: Sure what do you want to talk about?
Hinata: For starters you said that you wanted to ask Kaa-san if you can bring Hanabi with us to Japan.
Naruto: Yep I um wanted to ask Hitomi-san if it's ok with her.
Hinata: It makes sense and Hanabi would enjoy seeing something different.
Hinata: But we should also bring Maragret so she can keep an eye on my sister.
Naruto: Ok so what vehicle are we taking?
Hinata: We're taking a large van that will have an RV attact to it.
Naruto: ?
Hinata: You'll know what I mean when you see it.
Hinata: Is there something your not telling me? Hanabi said that you had bandages on your right wrist when she spoke to last friday.
Naruto froze when he red the last text. All he could think in his mind was, 'how do they know?'.
He swallows a lump in his throat. He starts to shake but he calms himself down as he didn't want to have a panic attack in school. He could tell that Hinata was serious and curious about his right wrist. He has his head down and he decides to tell her the truth. Besides he didn't want to lie to her, and he has been keeping his promise to Hitomi.
Naruto: Remember when I didn't want to speak to you when you came home after school.
Hinata: The day after you accidentally got drunk. Yeah I remember. Why?
Naruto: Don't panic or anything. Only your parents and Tsunade knows about this?
Hinata: About what? I'm confuse
Naruto: Please don't tell the others. But the day you came home from school was the day that I cutted my right wrist, and that was the reason why I had a nightmare about it when you and Hitomi came to check up on me.
Hinata: Did you cut your other wrist. And it explains why you were eating with your left hand at dinner. But I'm not at you.
Hinata: I'll just happy that you told someone before it got worse.
Naruto: No I didn't cut my left wrist. At first I wasn't going to do it. But I felt ashamed, including guilt and have regreted it ever since. That's why Hitomi had grounded for 5 days.
Naruto: But I promise that I won't do it again. I also have been expriencing panic attacks.
Hinata: Don't worry. You'll get through this and we won't tell anyone about it.
Hinata: Have you told Kaa-san about your panic attacks?
Naruto: No I did have one when I was with Tsunade. And I had one before tryouts started right before Sakura spoke to me.
Hinata froze when she red the last text. Now it all made sense when she spoke to her and Sasuke the day Naruto stayed home from school. Including when she saw him on the floor with Tsunade when she came to pick him up. She decides to give Naruto some good advice.
Hinata: I think you should tell Kaa-san about your panic attacks.
Naruto: sigh Ok I will.
The school bell rings as everyone got up to go have lunch.
Everyone ate lunch outside. But they could tell that Naruto and Hinata was quiet for some reason.
Kiba then decides to break the silence.
"What are you two so quiet for?" he said.
"None of your bunsiness dog boy" Hinata said in annoyance.
"Troublesome is everyone excited about the trip?" Shikamaru asked while looking at clouds.
"I know I am. I can't wait to go sight seeing" Ino said while making a fist.
"I can't wait to try new food" Choji said while eating a bento box.
"Well I can't wait to score some chicks" Kiba said with a smirk. However this earns him a punch by Sakura.
"You damn jerk. Your a womanizer!" Sakura said with anger in her eyes as Kiba got up.
"Can't wait to see what bugs are in Japan" Shino said while eating a hotdog.
"Can't wait to see what Japan is like" Sasuke said with a smirk.
"I can't wait to see Hanabi's reaction when she comes with us" Hinata said with a smile on her face.
All Naruto could think in his mind was, 'This might actually be fun'.
It was now 8pm as Naruto was working out at the gym. He was at a sports club and Asuma was helping him with weights.
Asuma Sarutobi is a tall man, with brown eyes, short, black spiky hair, and beard. His clothing consisted of a short sleeved, white shirt with a blue and black collar over chain mail armor, along with a simple white vest along with a pair of black pants and a white belt. Usually he would wear gym clothes today but he decided not to.
He is laid back individual, and did not get himself involved in certain things unless it was absolutely necessary. He is a smoker but despite this, he would abruptly break the habit under certain circumstances, such as when his father died, or when he learned that Kurenai was pregnant with his only child. But he finally stop smoking so that he can be a loving father to his unborn child. Not always seeing eye to eye with his father, Asuma later on came to respect his father's role as looking out for Naruto after his mother Biwako had die when Naruto was brought back to the orphanage after Genma had reported that Naruto was being abused by Ami.
Asuma doesn't recall too much about Naruto since the boy was in different foster homes until the 10th grade. He only recalls the stories of the boy that he had heard from his father Hiruzen. After his father had die from cancer Asuma had heard rumors about Naruto being homeless and how the boy had almost committed suicide. When Asuma had heard that the boy was taken in by Hiashi, he was shock and blamed himself for not being there for the boy after seeing what a wreck the boy was in when Hiashi assigned him to be Naruto's gym trainer.
So here he is training Naruto by helping the boy pull heavy weights.
There was silence between them so Asuma decided to start talking.
"So how's school coming along?" he said while pulling the heavy weight on the pole.
Naruto signs to him with his hands, "It's going along fine but track has been cancel so we don't push ourselves too hard".
Asuma said in his mind, 'Guy probably doesn't want Suka to do anything unusual before their first big track race'.
Asuma then says with a smile, "That's good. So how's martial art training?".
Naruto gives him the heavy weight as he said to him with his hands, "My training is good. I usually train in secret. But Hitomi said that Hiashi will sign me up to attend a martial arts dojo soon".
Asuma then said in shock, "Did he said when that will happen?". He then gets the heavy weight from Naruto.
Naruto then signs to him while smiling, "No. But I think he wants me to start after our first track race". He then lifts the heavy weight up from his chest.
Asuma holds the weight and said to the blonde, "What days are you thinking of doing the dojo?".
Naruto signs to saying, "Don't know. Maybe Mondays and Fridays. But it all depends on what days I have to see Tsunade".
Naruto then lifts the weight. Asuma then asks him, "I can tell that you been busy. I found out from Hiashi that you got drunk, and that's why you couldn't come for a few days".
Naruto has a sad look on his face as he gives the weight to Asuma. He then signs to him, "I don't recall anything about me getting drunk. It was a accident as far as everyone told me".
Asuma was a little concern when Naruto told him what he red in sign language. However he smiles at the boy. He then pats Naruto on the back as the boy gets up from the mat.
Asuma said to him while strecthing his arms, "That's a rap for tonight. It's 9:30 so go home and get some dinner. See ya next week". And with that Asuma leaves the gym as Naruto texts Hitomi that he is done.
Hitomi texts him by telling him that she is on her way to pick him up. At 10pm Hitomi is waving to Naruto outside of the gym. Naruto gets in the car and closes the door.
Hitomi is driving as she said to him, "How was work out?".
Naruto signs to her with the light on saying, "Just the usual work out. But I was also lifting heavy weights".
Hitomi smiles as she said, "A change of routine I see".
Naruto nods his head in agreement.
Hitomi then asks him, "Did Asuma ask you about why you didn't come to the gym last week?".
Naruto is sad as he signs to her, "I didn't tell him about me visiting Tsunade. And I honestly told him that I don't recall anything while being drunk".
Hitomi then tells him, "Speaking of Tsunade. Do you want me to make an apoointment with her after school tomorrow since track doesn't start until Monday".
Naruto nods his head as he signs to her saying, "Yes I would like that".
Hitomi smiles as she said to "ok".
As Naruto and Hitomi walk back into the house. Naruto goes upstairs to take a shower. While everyone is waiting to have dinner.
At 10:30pm everyone eats dinner. But Hinata notices that Naruto looked tire as he tries to stay up. Hitomi notices this as way and said to the boy, "Naruto sweetie. Are you alright? You look exhausted".
Naruto smiles weakily as he signs to her saying, "The workout must have took a lot out of me. But the dinner is good".
Hitomi looks at him in sadness. While Hanabi said to him in concern, "Naruto Oniichan you should get some sleep".
Hajime scoffed as he said to the blonde, "Just say that you don't want to eat. It's obviously written all over your face".
Hiashi sent a glare at Hajime by telling him, "Hajime that's enough. Do you recall that your still grounded?".
Hajime went quiet as he kept eating his food. While Margaret was worry about Naruto as she hasn't seen him so exhausted before. Hinata was also worry about the blonde. To her it made sense he is busy with track and when he got drunk he couldn't go to gym until he recover from cutting himself. Neji saw how exhausted Naruto was and he could't blame him. He also went through those days in high school as well.
As Naruto finished eating. He thanked everyone for the meal and went upstairs to his room. As Naruto was out of sight Hinata said to her mother, "You think he'll be alright?".
Hitomi sighs as she said, "I hope so. He might be more exhausted when he goes to see Tsunade tommorrow".
Hiashi then tells them, "Hopefully the stress of being at too many places at once doesn't get to him". Everyone gets up to go to bed as Margaret grabs everyone's plates.
Hinata is in her room as she wonders what is making Naruto act this way. She then thought in her mind, 'Hopefully our trip to Japan will help him relax more'. Meanwhile Naruto had finish his homework. He was now done writing in his journal. He goes in the hallway and see that Hiashi was in his study room looking at a picture. All Naruto could think about was, 'I wonder who is he looking at in the photo'. Hiashi then sadly thinks in his mind saying, 'Oh Hizashi. If I could have help you before you took your own life. I miss you so much little brother and Neji misses you too'.
Naruto then leaves as he was walking to Hitomi's bedroom. He knocks on the door as Hitomi said, "Come in". Naruto opens the door as Hitomi is in the bed reading a book. She puts down the book and sees Naruto at the door entrance. She can see that the boy was still sleepy but she smiles at him by saying, "Naruto is there something that's bothering you?".
Naruto nods his head as he walks up to th. And Hitomi gets serious as she said to him "What's wrong? Did someone bother you at school?".
Naruto shakes his head as he signs to her, "I thought Tsunade told you that I been having panic attacks".
Hitomi was shock as her eyes went wide. She then puts her book down. Soon after that she asked him, "When has this been happening?".
Naruto looks at her in the eye and he signs to her saying, "It happen when I was panicking about making the team before tryouts. The second time it happen was when I was stress out during my seesion with Tsunade the last time I saw her".
Hitomi was shock as it explain why he didn't came outside that day when she and Hinata went to pick him up. Naruto then has his head down in shame. He was happy that he finally told her but he was afraid to see her reaction. He didn't want Hitomi to be angry or upset with him. All he knows is that this is all new to him since he never exprienced panic attacks before.
Hitomi brings him out of his thoughts as she rubs his hands. She said to him, "Does anyone else know about this?". He signs to her by saying, "Only Hinata knows. She had told me to tell you about this today". Hitomi smiles as Hinata really has a way of giving good advice.
She then told him with a smile, "Tell Tsunade everything you told me tommorrow. I'll see if there is a way to counter a panic attack". Hearing that made Naruto happy as he gave Hitomi a hug. Hitomi then returns the hug by rubbing his back. As Naruto let's go Hitomi tells him as she sees him rubbing his eyes, "Get some sleep ok. I'll see you in the morning".
Naruto then walks out of the room as Hitomi thinks in sadness, "Naruto. I can see that it must be hard for you to go through all of these new changes". She then cuts off the light to go to sleep.
Naruto is now in his room as he looks at his light blue teal stripe scarf before going to sleep.
It is Wednesday July 15, 2000.
Naruto is in class. It is eight period as everyone is learning about literature. Naruto is paying attention as Kiba is bore but there teacher Kurenai-sensei was making sure no one slept in her class. Most boys couldn't look at her as she was beautiful. Hinata had to throw something just to make Kiba stop having pervert thoughts. Shino was looking at his textbook. Whereas Sakura and Ino was trying to wake Shikamaru up. Choji was trying not to think about food as he thought about eating his textbook. Sasuke was avoiding how Kita, and Erika kept looking at him. Whereas Kurenai was happy that Melody and Suka wasn't in her class.
'At least Naruto and some of the rookie 8 take their education seriously' she happy thought in her mind.
"Please look at page 360 in your textbooks" she said while writing something on the board.
Some students were made because class was over in 20 minutes. But they turn to the page that she said.
Kurenai Sarutobi is a fairly tall and light-skinned woman of slender build. She has long, black, shoulder length untamed hair, thick eyebrows, and very unique eyes that are red in colour, with an additional ring in them. She wears make-up consisting of red lipstick and purple eye shadow. Her regular outfit consists of a long, loose fitting maternal dress with a simple blouse underneath. Her stomach is big as she is pregnant. She was going to wear a pink kimono but she forgot too.
Kurenai a caring, and brave woman. She shows great care and concern for all her students. She especialky has a soft spot for Hinata and Naruto. Since she considers them as her favorite hard working students. She sees a lot of potential in them and doesn't want their potential to go to waste. Kurenai can tell that the two have a lot in common even though their personalities are diffrent.
Kurenai is married to Asuma as the two can't wait to be parents. She was very happy when she told the news to Asuma and has beg him to give up on his drug addictions. Asuma has since then started to become sober and clean for their unborn child as their child is going to be born in autumn soon. Kurenai's dream is to help her student find their passion in life and wants them to make their dreams come true.
The school bell rings as Kurenai said to them, "Pages 361 and 362 for homework. Get home safety everyone and see you tomorrow".
With that everyone leaves the school. Naruto and Hinata see Hitomi outside waiting for them.
"Hey Naruto-kun and Hinata. How was school today?" she said as the two got in to the car.
Hinata smiles as she said, "It was great. Although Kiba wouldn't stop staring at Kurenai sensei".
Hitomi then said to them, "I wonder if Tsume strangles him for having those nasty thoughts".
Naruto looks confuse as Hinata said to him, "Tsume is Kiba's mother and he has an older sister name Hana".
Naruto nods his head in understanding. The car ride to Tsunade's was quiet as the two was looking over what homework they had to do.
The car reaches Tsunade's building. As the car stops at the front entrance Naruto gets out as Hitomi said to him, "I'll pick up in a hour".
Naruto nods his head as Hinata closes the door. Hitomi said to him before driving off, "See ya later Naruto-kun". The car drives off as Naruto walks into the building.
Shizune greets him by saying, "Good evening Uzumaki-san. Tsunade-sama will be with you shortly". Naruto nods his head in understanding.
Shizune is a light fair skinned woman of average height, and slender build with black eyes and hair. Her black hair is straight and shoulder length with bangs that cover her ears and frame her face. However her eyebrows are seen as being thick. Normally, Shizune is seen in a long bluish black kimono with white trimmings, held closed by a white obi, and open toed sandals with low heels.
Shizune always seen as being level headed, practical and also a rational thinker. As a result, she is the only one who tends to stress out over details. At the same time however, she is not timid and is not afraid of objecting to Tsunade's decisions or voicing her opinion. She dreams of helping out others in need like Naruto.
Naruto walks in to the room and sits on the couch like last time. A few minutes later Tsunade walks in the room.
She said while walking to a chair to sit on, "It's good to see you again. I was surprise when Hitomi told me that you wanted to see me".
But she gets serious as she said to him, "You won't run out like last time right?".
Naruto looks down in shame as he signs to her saying, "I'm sorry for doing that last week. I know it was not the right thing to do, and I was angry for reasons I didn't know. So please forgive me".
Tsunade smiles as she said to him, "Sure I forgive you. You wrre under a lot of stress especially with the panic attack you had last time. Any I put the video recorder on so let's begin".
Naruto looks up at her as he nods his head.
"So what seems to be on your mind?" she asks before writing something down.
Naruto takes a breather in which Tsunade notices. He then starts to think of what he is going to say.
Looking at her Naruto signs to her saying, "I been having less panic attacks for some reason".
Tsunade is shock upon hearing this. This was good news to her but she felt that something wasn't right.
"Can you explain to me what you mean" she said while writing something down.
Naruto frowns as he thinks hard on the question. He didn't know how to explain it.
Naruto sighs as he signs to her saying, "I guess it started after I was grounded. I didn't think about any negative thoughts when I promised Hitomi that I wouldn't my wrist anymore".
Tsunade then says, "Interesting go on".
Naruto continues signing, "I was grounded for 5 days and as for my punishment I had to help Hanabi with her homework".
Tsunade then asks him, "Whose Hanabi?".
Naruto smiles as he signs, "She's Hinata's little sister". Tsunade nods her head in understanding.
Naruto continues signing while saying, "I had spent time with Hanabi. And I had got to know her as a person. But I was surprise when she called me Oniichan".
Tsunade glushes as she said, "That's cute".
However Naruto pouts while signing, "It's a little embarrassing. I don't know how to be older sibling and Hajime doesn't like me".
Tsunade then says, "Speaking of the little Hyugas. How is your relationship with Hajime?".
Naruto looks sad as he signed to her, "He has hated me ever since I started living with him. I try to connect with him but he seems to be more distant then before".
Tsunade then writes something down as she said, "Has he ever spoke to you?". Naruto shakes his head in response.
Tsunade then said to him, "Who do you get along with in the Hyuga family? And I mean besides Hinata".
Naruto then signs to her saying, "I get along with Hitomi, Hiashi, Margaret, Hanabi and probably Neji".
Tsunade then stops writing for a second to take everything in. She then looks at Naruto and back at her clipboard.
She then asks him with a smile, "I can see you get along Hinata. But what do see in Neji?".
Naruto smiles a little bit as he never thought about it before. How could he tell her that he sees the Hyugas as his family. He thought back to what he was thinking about in study hall before Hinata texted him. Naruto takes a breather.
He signs to her saying with a smile on his face, "I'm happy that she and Hiashi are looking for my parents but I feel like Hitomi was a little sad since she was trying to spend more time with everyone. Don't get me wrong I know she's looking out me. I understands her work schedule and I love her as the mother I never had, but I wonders if she thinks that I don't see her as my mother. The same goes for Hiashi too since he gave me a journal communcate more instead of using sign language, and he's the best father I couldn't ask for".
Tsunade has been writing everything down so far and she can that Naruto has been showing signs of confidence, depressing and being conflicted as well. But she is happy that he has being communicating more.
Naruto then signs to her with his hands saying, "I see Neji as an older brother but I want to connect with him more. I only see Hinata as my best friend, even though I have a crush on her. I guess I see Hanabi and Hajime as my little siblings. However being a big brother was more complicated then I thought".
Tsunade then asked him with a serious tone, "What do you have in common with Neji?".
Naruto shrugged his shoulders. Then he said to her in sign language, "I heard from Margaret that we have the same hobbies and that we love kung fu. That's about it, and I don't know anything about his past".
Tsunade then writes something down. She then asks him her final question.
"How do you see your life now compare to how it was in the past?" she said with a smirk.
Naruto frowned upon hearing the question. He thought he was done thinking about his past; being bullied, abused, neglected having a hard time in school and being homeless. Even though he only had Biwako and Hiruzen to look up growing up. Times had change: he has a family now, friends that care about him, five teachers that look out for himand his school grades has never been perfect (even though he still is a B plus student). Things were actually looking up for the better. However some questions about himself and his parents needed to be answer. Despite this he is focusing on his future as a person and nothing more. Naruto takes a final breather as he sighs in happiness. Tsunade who saw him smile was actually impress because he didn't show signs of being angry.
Naruto signs with his hands saying, "My life back then was hard, depressing, tough and rough. There were times that I wished that I wasn't born. But I kept thinking that was selfish. I know I still want answers about my parents even if their alive or not. Including why I was abandoned and if my parents love me. However due to the new life that I have now with the Hyugas as my new family it makes me feel strong, grateful, bless, warm, loving, happy and a little complicated. But I know that I will fine as I am focusing on my future".
Tsunade smiles in happiness as she can tell that Naruto has come a long way. She can tell that the boy is less angry, and wasn't too depress. However she can see that the boy is determine and wants to change himself for the better. But she can see that the boy is still quiet and shy. Tsunade can see that Naruto no longer has thoughts of suicide and hopes it stays that way. Things will get more complicated for him but Tsunade knows that Naruto will fight it head on.
"Well that's it for today. Our seesion is done and I hope to see you next week" Tsunade says with a smile on her face.
Naruto vows his head in respect as he takes his leave. With Naruto gone Shizune asks her in concern, "Do you really think he won't kill himself like the first time?".
Tsunade looks at her and said with happiness, "We don't know what the future holds. Which is why I'm praying for him. I know that Naruto won't kill himself and he has been showing less signs of suicide thoughts. So we're see besides he's getting along with the Hyugas just fine. The more less negatives thoughts about suicide the better".
Shizune smiles as she hear that. She was still having doubts about Naruto, however she hopes that what Tsunade said will become a reality.
Outside of the building Naruto gets into the car as Hitomi smiles seeing him. As the car drives off Hitomi decides not to ask him how it went. She looks at him as she can see him smiling while look out the window.
'I guess it went well. Me and Hinata were worry all for nothing', Hitomi thought in her mind.
The car ride went smoothly all the way to the house. It was 4pm so Naruto decides to go do his homework and to take a early shower. Before he walks upstairs Hitomi gives him a hug. The hug was unexpected but Naruto hugs her back in return.
"I'm so proud of you" she said by whispering in his ear.
Naruto was confuse as he didn't know what she meant. His whole life he never heard say those words to him. But to hear her say it felt like a blessing to him.
"Your starting to connect with everyone and telling me what's on your mind. You really are growing up Naruto-kun. Your still the same quiet, shy timid boy on the outside. But on the inside your changing for the better and your also facing on all of these new changes in your life. And I know your face it head on with us by your side" she said while rubbing his back.
Naruto also smiles as he can tell that her aura was all comfortable and warm again. He could that she was happy as he can sense that she was trying her hardest not to cry. To be honest even he felt like crying as maybe this was what it is like to have a mother. He really felt like he was home. They finally let go of hugging each other.
"And as your new mom I want to say I love you" she said to him by looking into his eyes. Naruto hapoily smiles after hearing those words even more.
He closes his eyes and signs with his hands by saying, "I love you too". And with that the two went up stairs to there room.
Inside the bedroom Naruto had took a shower early. A hour later he then finished his homework. He was writing in his journal as he was thinking about what Hitomi had told him. He was really happy as he never felt so happy before. The last time he was really happy was when Biwako had taught him how to cook and had did other stuff with him. Naruto was crying a little as he just felt relieve to finally have a family that cared about him.
He was right about one thing though things were looking up for the better and he wanted it to stay that way. As he wanted to be seen as a normal person instead of being seen as a disable person including being half and half.
At dinner time Hanabi was asking Hajime if he spoke to Iki. While Hiashi was asking Neji if he will be his spring break soon. Whereas Hinata was wondering if Naruto was thinking about his right wrist. She was a little shock when he told her about it and to be honest it did explains everything about the day it happen. But she hopes that he csn learn how to think positive instead of thinking about negative thoughts.
Naruto was thinking about telling Hinata what happened at his session with Tsunade but he decided against it. He wanted to see if he can spend more time with her friends and he is exhausted from his seesion with Tsunade. As once again he starts to finish his food too slowly. So Hitomi had sent him to bed early.
After everyone ate they all went to sleep for the night. However Hitomi checks up on Naruto and everyone to see them all sleep in their beds before going to sleep herself.
It is Thursday July 16, 2000.
It was after school hours. So Kiba suggested that they should go to a blues club to do karaoke while everyone is outside of the school. But Hinata and Shino wanted to punch him as he forgot one thing.
"You damn baka have you forgotten that Naruto is mute!" Hinata yelled out as she grabbed Kiba by the neck.
"Seriously I haven't forgotten about that. That's why I want you to mimic a voice while he's on stage" Kiba say as he gasps for air.
"But that won't work even if the staff allows it" Sakura said while having a finger on her chin.
"And why do you want me to mimic voices anyway?" Hinata said as she was confuse about Kiba's plan.
Kiba then said to her with a smirk, "Your good at sounding like a boy".
"You asshole!" Hinata shouts at the top of her lungs.
"Kiba while your plan is sweet and all. Everyone will know that Naruto is mute because he will sing the song in sign language" Shino said while looking at the boy.
"Troublesome guess we have to find something else to do" Shikamaru said in a bore tone.
"No we can still do it because I love dancing to blues and jazz music Ino said while thinking about her favorite songs.
"Yes finally someone sees it my way let's go" Kiba said as everyone ran after him.
"Has anyone seen Sasuke baka?" Hinata said while getting annoy.
Sakura said to her while smiling, "His helping his father out at the police station. Since his brother is too busy".
"Hey Naruto whose your favorite band?" Choji asks while talking to the blonde.
"Oh it's Belushi and Dan Aykroyd as the Blues Brothers" Naruto signed in sign language to the chubby boy.
A few minutes later the group made it to the house of blues. To see the club outside of the United States was something. The club looks exactly how it looks in Chicago. But the club had all the western great singers photographs in Japanese. The club was big on the inside but small on the outside. It had a huge stage and of course a bar including a juice box. It even has a huge shrine of the Blues Brothers.
Everyone had went to the karaoke section. While Sakura had to remind Kiba that they can only sing one song. Shikamaru had also reminded Kiba that they don't have bar licenses so they couldn't drink in a club yet. Everyone was looking at the list of R&B, Jazz, Soul and Blues songs to pick. Everyone voted not to pick duet songs.
Sakura was singing I'm Walking by Fat Domino. Ino was singing Think by Aretha Frankin. Shikamaru was singing Groove Me. Choji was singing Flip Flop and Fly. Shino was singing Rubber Biscuit. Kiba was singing Hey Bartender. While Hinata choose to sing King Bee as Naruto was playing the harmonica.
She starts singing while mimicing Belushi's voice, "Well, I'm a king bee. I Want you to be my queen. Yeah. Well, I'm a king bee babe. I Want you to be my queen yeah. Well together we can make honey baby. The world has never seen. Ok let's buzz awhile. A buzz. A Buzz. A buzz. A buzz. Well sting me babe".
Hinata then pauses as she sees Naruto do two back flips. Then he goes back to playing the harmonica. She rsumes singing by saying, "Well, I'm a king bee. I Can buzz all night long. Well, I'm a king bee bee. I can buzz all night long. Well, I can buzz better, baby. When your men is, when your men is, when your mennn is, ow, ow, aggh, ugh. When your man is gone!".
Everyone got up cheering for the performance as they forgot that Hinata was sininging in a boy's point of view.
"That was awesome you guys!" Ino said while being excited.
"Troublesome. I'm just glad Sasuke wasn't here to tease you two" Shikamaru says by smirking.
"Knowing Sasuke he probably wouldn't sing this type of music" Kiba said while laughing.
"I'm glad we have this type of music to cherish instead of today's music" Sakura said while sighing.
"You two make a great team. You two should do this more often" Choji said by smiling.
This comment had made the two blush like a tomato.
"I agree as we all picked song that are mostly from the Blues Brothers franchise. Why because it's from an album or that it was heard in the 1980s hit film" Shino said by pushing his sunglasses up.
"Well I'm glad I picked a song that was heard on SNL. So King Bee is an early blues brothers song if you ask me" Hinata said while brushing everything off.
"Oh please Hinata. Naruto's more like Jake and your more like Elwood if you ask me" Kiba said in a teasing tone. However Sakura punches him in the face.
"Can't you go through one day without being sarcastic" Sakura said in anger as Kiba got up.
"It's almost starting to be sunset. I suggest we should all go home" Shino said as everyone was leaving the club.
Naruto and Hinata were walking home as they kept thinking about the club.
Hinata saw that Naruto smiling for real as she thought in her mind, 'He must be happy that he got to do something that's related to his favorite band'.
"Hey Naruto-kun" Hinata said in curiousness. Naruto looks at her as they are walking home.
"I didn't know you can do cartwheels and back flips" Hinata said while smiling.
"Oh ah Biwako sama taught me how to dance with blues music. She said it was a sign for me to express myself" Naruto sheepishly signed in sign language.
"You speak really highly of her. Is she your relative?" Hinata said while placing her finger on her chin.
Naruto shakes his head as he signs to her saying, "More like the surrogate grandma that I never had. If it wasn't for her and Hiruzen sensei looking out for me. Who knows how I would have turned out".
Naruto smiles fondly as he signed to her saying, "The older kids always called her a penguin".
Hinata looked at him in confusion. He then signed to her saying, "She was sweet, kind, honest and caring. But she didn't hide how she can discipline us".
Hinata could tell that Naruto couldn't hide his emotions very well. She could see that he hated confrontation just like her. Sure he had a hard time expressing himself in front of her family. But that's what she likes about him. She sees that he is not just a hard worker but that he never gives up on his goals and that he wants to make a name for himself. Hinata could tell that Naruto is horr at lying but he wants to be normal, and what ever he wants to do in the future that he will be happy.
It makes her wonder what his kids will be like if he was marry. Hinata hopes that his son is exactly like him while his daughter is like her. And she hopes that his children will never meet Sasuke. Hinata shakes her head as she wants those thoughts out of her head. She can see that Naruto acted like Belushi when he is not on drugs. And that Naruto much to Kiba being right acts exactly like Jake Blues. He has all of Jake's personality traits, intelligence and his energy. It had hit her when he had accidentally got drunk for the first time. She can tell that music was something that Naruto loves and hopes he can express himself more without it. But his dance moves were more like if you were born in Chicago.
If Hinata were to pick two rivals for the shy timid honest energetic boy, then she can only see Neji and Gaara. She can him getting along with them over Sasuke. Naruto can push himself more in a healthy way instead of a in toxic way. She can even tell that the three have something in common for an unknown reason.
Naruto looks at her in concern as he signed, "Are you ok? You were spacing out".
Hinata then said to him, "I'm fine. So what happen to Biwako and Hiruzen?".
Naruto sighs sadly after hearing that as Hinata notices it. He looks away from her as his eyes overshadowed his face.
Naruto signs to her in sadness saying, "I don't know what happen to Biwako-sama. I hadn't seen her since I was four. However Hiruzen-sensei die from cancer right after I was transfered to your school. He was the one that gave me the scholarship and he was the only road model that I had after I lost my former friends. I refuses to make contact with anyone ever since".
Hinata holds his arm as she said to him, "I can see that you want to make them proud. Since they were the closest things to parents that you had long before you met me".
Naruto nods his head in agreement as he kisses her on the head. Hinata while blushing could tell that her mother was right about eveything when she told her about Naruto's background story. The blonde really did lost everythibg when he entered high school. It makes her wonder how horrible his early childhood was like before he got adopted.
"Your here now and that's what is important. Beside when it comes to fictional characters your like Jake Blues, Ernie Souchak and Sonic the Hedgehog" Hinata said while smiling. Naruto blushes while hearing that since she was kinda right.
"I support you with whatever you want to do with your future" she said while making a fist as she let's go of him.
"Thanks Hinata" he shyly signed to her with his hands. "No problem" she said to him.
They had made to the house. Before Hinata opens the door Naruto grabs her arm. She turns around and looks at him.
"Naruto, whats wrong" she said to him.
He let's go of her arm. He was looking into her eyes as he signed saying, "I was thinking that next time I can take a picture of the blues brothers carboard cut out with you. And to also bring the rest of the family with us to the club when Hiashi and Hitomi have some free time".
Hinata was shock when Naruto had signed that. She can tell that like Arthur Bach that Naruto really cares about family instead of following in someone's footsteps. She smiles as Naruto's shy kind humble personality is the key of others to see who he really is instead of looking down upon.
"Sure that's a great idea" she said as she opens the door. Hinata had failed to notice that he wanted to give her hug.
"Kaa-san we're home" Hinata said as they walked in.
Hitomi walks in the entrance area as Hanabi ran giving Naruto a hug.
"Sorry we were out for an hour or so. we decided to walk home after Kiba brought us to the House of Blues" Hinata said in a sheepish tone.
Hitomi sighs as she thinks that Tsume doesn't know when to make Kiba have a curfew.
Hiashi then walks in as he tells the two, "I can see you two had fun. So take a shower and do your homework".
Hitomi agrees as she said to them, "Dinner will be ready soon. Be downstairs by 7pm".
"Can Hanabi come with us tomorrow?" Naruto asked her in sign language.
Hitomi smiles as she said, "Sure but Margaret is watching her".
While Neji and Hajime came as well to see what was going on. Hanabi was asking them what song did they sing at the club. Hinata told Hanabi that she sung King Bee and that Naruto had did some good cartwheels on the stage. As Hanabi became more excited, all Neji could think about was his secret plan. Whereas Hajime was angry that Hanabi gets to go to Japan for the weekend while he couldn't since he was still ground.
As everyone went upstairs to there rooms, Naruto was starting to get nervous about the trip. He was panicking as he was doing his homework. He wanted to bring his journal with him so he can write what he will do tomorrow including on Saturday. He also knew that they will be back home before Monday, so that meant that they are leaving on Sunday. He shakes his head as he was doing his homework. He wanted the trip to be perfect but he didn't know what to do. Besides he never left Konoha before.
However a knock on the door interrupted him. Margaret has came and said that dinner is almost done. Naruto realizs that time flies by when you are doing your homework.
He thanks her and closes the door. Sighing to himself Naruto finishes the last of his homework. He then starts writing in his journal and an hour later he went to eat dinner.
At dinner everyone was eating as Neji sees that Hajime was being more rude then usual. While Hanabi was asking Hinata what part of Japan will they be seeing tomorrow. Whereas Hiashi was reminding Hanabi that she can't wander off too much. Hitomi sees that Neji was thinking about something and she hopes it isn't anything bad. While Hinata was telling Naruto that the trip will be great, as she said this to ease his nervousness.
After dinner everyone went to bed as Naruto thought in his mind, 'I wonder what will happen in Japan'. And with that he went to sleep.
It is Friday July 17, 2000.
It was after school hours. As school was over and track was still cancel since Gai wanted everyone to at least take a break from working too hard.
Hitomi blew the steam ascending from the black teacup. Once she felt it was ready, she placed her thin lips on the edge of it and sipped on the green tea. She closed her eyes softly as she let the tea relaxed every nerve in her body. She flipped through some documents spread out on the counter. She stared at the name signed on the birth certificate and sighed in deep thought.
"Kaa-san, are you okay?" Hinata asked once noticing her mother's expression when she entered the kitchen.
"Yes sweetie, I'm okay. "Um, did you two and Hanabi packed for your trip today?" She asked.
"Yeah, I just woke up Naruto from his nap. He should be ready soon" Hinata said while sliding next to her mother. She reached over and grabbed a apple off of her mother's plate. "What are you staring at?" she said while looking over the documents on the counter. Her eyes widened at the documents. "You found them?" she said while being shock.
"I found information on his mother, however I can't find anything on his father. But I found her death certificate as it it stated that she died the day after he was born. Meaning that she brought him here when he was a newborn" she said as her eyes show sadness.
"What do you mean that you can't find his father?" Hinata hummed as she buttered the bread. "His name isn't there?" she said in anger.
"Nothing" Hitomi said in anger. "And don't tell this to Naruto until I've done further research" she said in seriousness.
"I won't. That's strange, isn't it?" Hinata responded.
Hitomi nodded her head. "It is, but let me know when you reach Japan" she said while closing the folder. Hinata tilted her head to the side as she wondered what her mother was going to do. Hitomi turned on heels, which clacked on the tile floor of the kitchen. Just as she was about to leave, Naruto came in, but his messy bed hair was all over the place. "Naruto-kun" Hitomi said being quite surprised.
Naruto rubbed his eyes and smiled shyly. "Good afternoon" He said sheepishly in sign language.
"Good afternoon" Hinata said in a happy tone.
"Good Afternoon big sis" Hanabi said as she walked in with her bag.
"Good Afternoon you two. Naruto where's your comb?" Hitomi said in curiosity.
He scratched the back of his head nervously. He then signed with his hands, "I can't find it".
Hitomi felt her lips tugged, and she wanted nothing more than to squeeze the cuteness out of him. "Naruto-kun. You can't be careless and lost your things" she said as she tried to suppress her smile. She really needed to be stern with him as with her other kids.
"I'm sorry" he replied sadly in sign language. "I'll take care of my things from now on" he said in sign language while being nervous.
Hitomi pinched his left cheek and said to him, "It's alright. Come with me so I can fix your hair before you leave".
Naruto followed behind Hitomi up the stairs. Hinata walked into the living room and saw his Nike duffle bag placed next to the sofa.
"I hope he packed accordingly" she said while digging through his bag. Her right eye twitched as he forgot some important things, like his boxers and toothbrush. Her eyes lingered to upstairs. "He's probably nervous about hanging out with the gang again. Who could blame him" she said as she went upstairs.
After he got his hair done Naruto had went into his room to get his journal and pendant necklace. And with that he closes the door.
Naruto carried his and Hinata's bag to the rv van car. While Hanabi carries her bag. Sasuke and Sakura stepped out of the car and paused when they saw Naruto. Sasuke's lips tugged and he snickered. "What happened to your hair?" he said while trying to hold his laughter.
Naruto cheeks became reddened. "Shaddup!" he barked in sign language.
His once unkempt blonde hair was combed and straightened into a side bang, and his hair tucked behind his ear. Hinata let a giggle or two escape lips. He has his head down in embarrassment as he hears Hinata laugh at him.
"I'm sorry, Naruto-kun. I'll fix it for you when we go inside the rv. It'll hurt my mother's feelings if she'd saw all her hard work be destroyed" she said as she finally stops laughing.
Naruto shuts the back of the van trunk and approached Hinata and Sasuke. "Naruto-kun, do you want to sit in the RV with me while Hanabi and Margaret go with Sasuke-kun?" she she writes down the seat arrangements.
"Um ok" he said unsurely in sign language.
"Beside I hear that Ino, Choji and Shino will meet us there" she said.
Everyone entered the vechile and began their journey to Shikamaru's house. The early morning air felt crisp and warm, and the roads were empty. Naruto closed his eyes as he took a nap in the bunk bed. They had just left Kiba's house and was on their way to Japan.
Shikamaru's head was tilted back as he stared through the rv window at the clouds which he counted before drifting off to sleep. Kiba had his headphones in and was watching a Kung Fu movie, and Hinata was staring at the trees that came into view as she tried to distract herself from watching Naruto sleeping under her bed.
Sasuke stopped the rv van at a gas station to pump some gas in the vechile. Kiba stepped out to grab some snacks, and Shikamaru went to use the restroom. Naruto had drifted off to sleep an hour ago, and Hinata was playing some game on her phone.
Sasuke walked over to her side of the rv and poked his head through the opened window. "Do you want anything from here? A hot dog… or your favorite- cinnamon buns?" he said as he smirked by catching her attention with her favorite food.
"Come on" he said as he opened the rv car door for her. "Do you think Naruto would like something?" he said while walking with her.
Their voices faded as they stepped into the little convenience store. Naruto eyes shutted open and he stared at the window in the distance. He had woke up when he heard Sasuke asked Hinata if she needed anything.
'I didn't know Hinata-chan likes cinnamon buns' Naruto said in his mind.
He sulked because even after living with the Hyugas for some time now, he still really didn't know Hinata in a common sense. He knew she was caring and sweet and kind, but as far as hobbies, likes and dislikes go he had no clue what she liked.
He adjusted himself in the bunk bed when he heard Kiba coming back.
"Look who's finally awake" Kiba said as he grinned at Naruto. "I didn't expect you to fall asleep so quickly, Naruto" he said while laughing.
Naruto frowned upon hearing that. He didn't like being call a light sleeper.
"Up all night, huh?" Kiba said while trying to have a conversation with the blonde.
If Naruto had looked back at Kiba he would have seen the devious smirk on his face, and his eyes twitching.
"Not cool Kiba. I wish Hinata had made you sit in the van instèad of in here" Shikamaru muttered as he walked in the rv with junk food.
"Quit complaining" Kiba said as he tore the bag of nightcrawlers candy opened.
"Don't act like you never had to have sex yourself" he scoffed.
Naruto cheeks became reddened when hearing what Shikamaru and Kiba were talking about. He didn't like hearing about sex and porn at all.
"We're all men!" Kiba said screeched. "Why is everyone denying it? Naruto have you ever watched porn before?" he asked him. After not getting a response, he was shock. "Oh man that's just great he never saw porn before. And Shikamaru you claim to be lazy, but I have seen all your browser history" he said as he was angry.
Shikamaru eyes slightly widened. "I'm not listening to any of this" he said while reaching for his earbuds.
Naruto was glad that the topic was over.
"Let's get going" Hinata said as she stepped into the rv by closing the door.
Hinata had entered the car with a white bag in her hand. "Naruto-kun, they had ramen, but I didn't want you to spill it on yourself, so I got you some chips instead" she said while handing him the bag.
"Awe, how cute" Kiba said clasping his hands together.
"Do you want to get tied to the roof… again like last time?" Hinata angrily said in a low, yet dangerous voice. Kiba quickly shut his mouth. "Oh Naruto I got you some water too" Hinata said while passing him the bottled water.
"Thank you" he said with his hands, before taking the things.
The ride to the resort was quiet, except the music playing in the background.
'Tenten's there. Good thing I texted her the room list' Hinata said in her mind.
Hinata leaned back in the chair and texted Tenten.
Hinata: We should be there in 10 minutes.
Tenten: Okay.
Tenten: Hey Hinata?
Hinata: Yes Tenten?
Tenten: Are you going to make the moves on Naruto tonight?
Hinata: I have no idea what you are talking about. Keep your weird thoughts to yourself
Tenten: I'm just saying Hinata. Have some fun with him. It's a perfect time to cozy up to him, spend some… alone time with him.
Hinata: Why would I want to do any of that? The kung fu tourament is at sunset.
Tenten stared at the text message and didn't know if Hinata was serious or not.
Tenten: Because you like him? Did you blow the surprise to Naruto
Hinata: No. And… Who says I like him!
Tenten: Neji said It's written all over your face and Naruto's the only boy besides Sasuke that you haven't or never beaten up to a pulp.
Hinata: Okay, so what. Does that mean I like Sasuke too? Huh
Tenten: Oh, you are so crabby and too serious. I take it back your dead serious. But I understand this is your first true love, so you don't know how to go about it.
Hinata: Tenten. Just Stop ok. First love? Lol. I do not love Naruto. He's just my best friend.
Tenten: Ok. Fine. If you say so. See ya soon.
Hinata screamed internally. Just because she liked being around him, didn't mean she liked him romantically. They were just good best friends.
'Tenten's a jerk' she thought in her mind. 'Naruto and I are just friends. Nothing more…' she also thought.
"We're here welcome to Okubo, Japan" Sasuke said parking the vechile. The group of teens exited the car and stretched. "Let's hurry up so we can head to the surprise" Sasuke said opening the back trunk.
Naruto eyes widened. 'Did I pack anything. What surprise are they talking about?' he thought to himself. Last night he was up and barely got any sleep because he was nervous about today's event.
"Don't worry Naruto-kun" Hinata said once noticing the look on his face. "I hope you don't mind, but when you were upstairs with Kaa-san, I kind of searched through your bag to make sure you had everything packed".
Naruto stared at her in disbelief. "You did that for me?" he signed in sign language.
Hinata nodded her head. "I figured you were nervous" she said while smiling.
Was he really like an opened book? "Um… thank you, Hinata-chan. Your the greatest" he happily said in sign language. "I'll go grab your stuff" he signed with his hands before running off.
Hinata felt her heart skipped a beat when Naruto said those words. Her cheeks felt hot, and she knew her face was red. "I'll go check on Tenten" she shouted as she scurried in the entrance of the resort.
Sasuke watched her and smirked. He had heard the conversation between the two.
"Are we going to see the surprise?" Kiba said; the straps from his duffel bag was around his neck.
"Yes" Sasuke said. "You ever been in a tourament Naruto?" he asked.
"Yeah, plenty of times. Why?" he said in sign language.
While remembering those days long before his situation. Those days weren't always great. But he really ejoyed fighting others that like kubg fu as much as he did. Just doing touraments was like meeting new people. The memories really brought him back. The fighting rounds, others trying to talk to him before the next round started, crowds cheering in excitment. Those were the days that made him be happy to be alive.
Hinata stepped into the lobby of the hotel and saw Tenten sitting there with her legs crossed. Her eyes were focused on something on her iPhone screen. "Tenten-san" Hinata called out as she approached the girl. Tenten looked up and smiled at her.
Her brown hair was still in buns. She wore her brown chinese pants. The white long sleeve was visibly noticeable in front of her black spaghetti strap shirt.
"Hinata-chan, It's good to see you. How have you been?" Tenten bombarded her with questions.
"I'm fine. Where's Neji" Hinata replied in a straight to the point tone.
"He's in his hotel room preparing for the tournament. I brought Naruto a black gi to wear for the touranment" Tenten said with a smirk. Hinata had took the item to exam it.
Before Hinata could respond, Ino had jumped on her back.
"Hi, Hinata-chan" she happily said.
"Hello, Ino-chan" Hinata said as she carried the girl on her back.
"Your getting stronger" she said as she grinned.
"Ready to see the tournament?" Ino asked.
"Yes" she said.
Naruto and the rested entered the lobby of the hotel. He was with Hanabi and Margaret. He looked around and was mesmerized by the insides. On the ceiling, it had art drawings of ancient cities, Korean writing, Chinese writing, the Great Wall of China, and Wyshu philosophy. He had never seen anything like it.
"Ah, you like it?" Tenten said once noticing the look on his face. "This is my family's sanctuary" Ino said spreading out her arms as she looked above. "My father and mother are the owners of this fine establishment" she said as she smiled.
"It's really cool" Hanabi said in excitement.
"Yes it really is a nice place to run a business" Margaret said while bowing,
Naruto just couldn't believe it.
"S… seriously? It's amazing!" he happily said in sign language.
Tenten smirked. "I gave them the idea about the Asian themes being drawn on the ceilings" Tenten said while swinging something.
"You like the Asian culture?" he asked.
"Yes. Ever since I was little, I'm Chinese Korean. So I embrace both of my cultures. Even though I speak Japanese I love wearing chinese and korean clothes. That's also why I have my hair in a chinese style instead. Short and simple" she happily boasted.
Naruto felt himself smiling. Tenten noticing it, couldn't help but blush a little. His cerulean eyes sparkled with excitement, and the way he smiled made her feel so shy.
'Are all boys this cute' she thought in her mind.
"Let's take these things upstairs before we head out" Kiba said as he made his way to the elevator. The guys followed behind him, minus Sasuke who sat next to Sakura.
"Where's Choji?" he asked her.
"Where else?" Sakura scoffed. "I told him not to eat because we're going to the tournament, but you know him" she angrily said.
"And Shino?" he said.
"Bugs Sasuke. Bugs" she angrily yelled.
Sasuke nodded his head in understanding. "He better not bring any of them inside the room. I remember what happened last time" he said as his eyes stared at the ceiling while he remembered the screams and terror. He shivered at the thought.
He then leaves to go to his room.
Shikamaru took Hinata's stuff from Naruto and head across the hall to the girl's room. He placed her stuff next to a pink bag and sighed mentally. 'Troublesome. Who else would that bag belong to?' he thought.
Hinata looks at her list of rooms on her phone as the list followed:
*1. Naruto and Shikamaru (Room 300)
*2. Choji and Ino (Room 301)
*3. Hinata and Sakura (Room 302)
*4. Sasuke and Shino (Room 303)
*5. Hanabi, Margaret and Kiba (Room 304)
*6. Neji and Tenten (Room 305)
Naruto walked into the room as he began thinking what to write in his journal. He sat on the bed.
Shikamaru walked into the bathroom and was dumbfounded. It was like a master suite turned bathroom. He ran over to the shower and noticed there were the knobs used to turn on the shower, but there was no shower head for the water to sprout out.
"Troublesome hey is this thing broken" Shikamaru called out.
Kiba stepped into the bathroom just as Shikamaru turned the knob. "Wait, Shikamaru don't!" he shouted out.
But it was too late, a sudden noise caught Shikamaru's attention, and he looked up in time to get dumped in hot water. He let out a loud scream, was made Naruto and Sasuke rush into the bathroom. They saw Kiba on the floor laughing uncontrollably and saw a wet Shikamaru drench from head to toe. His spiky hair looked like a dead flower fell over his eyes and he was beyond embarrassed.
"What happened?" Sasuke said as his lips tugged into a smirk.
"You two should have been here to see his face!" Kiba said wiping his tears. "Man, that was so fucking funny!" he shouted.
Naruto grabbed a towel and handed it to the lazy boy who gracefully took it.
"Don't feel bad for him Naruto. Shikamaru did the exact same thing before. You know he has some small eyes, so could you believe how big they got when that hot water hit him?!" Kiba said as he was still laughing.
Spit flew out of Kiba's mouth as he couldn't contain his laughter. The laugh was so contagious, it also had Sasuke chuckling a few times. Naruto couldn't help but smirk, then it turned into chuckles and before he knew it, he was silently laughing. Even Shikamaru couldn't escape the laughing disease and now the room was filled with a bunch of laughing male teenagers.
After Naruto had changed into his black martial art gi, the group went into the elevator chatting away.
"Hey, where are Choji and Shino?" Naruto asked in sign language as they stepped out.
"Choji is out eating and Shino is collecting some bugs" Shikamaru had told them.
Naruto looked confused.
"It's one of his weird hobbies" Kiba said while shrugging his shoulders.
Naruto nodded his head in understanding.
"What took you guys so long?" Ino said while getting up when noticing them.
Shikamaru glared at the group so they wouldn't mention what happened earlier.
"We were doing men things" Kiba said fanning her off.
Sakura then said, "Naruto let's take you to your surprise".
And with that eveyone went to the surprise. It was a martial art tournament that Neji had signed him and Naruto up for.
Naruto stepped outside the tournament building and enjoyed the soft breeze that caresses his sun-kissed tan skin. He was inside a different room while watching the fights take place. He knew that his friends and new family was in the audience watching but he couldn't spot them any where.
"Hey are you alright" Karui said to him.
Karui is a black women with brown skin. She has long spiky red hair and amber eyes. As noted by Omoi she was flat-chested. She wears a long, short-sleeved dress with frilly edges complete with the Kumogakure symbol on it, two simple yellow earrings, fishnet stockings, thigh-high shoes with white soles. She dreams of being a fashion designer and hopes to design clothes for kung fu movies. Her hobby is joining kung fu fights to test out her fighting skills. She is 17 years old.
Karui seems to have a somewhat comedic negative relationship with her friend Omoi. As they argued over the possible reasons that Ay could have signed them up for the touranment. She assumed that Ay wanted them to get him more protein shakes. However, the argument started with Omoi, implying that she is flat-chested in comparison to their other friend, Samui. Like the rest of her hometown, she highly respects Killer B. However Karui is also quite combative, outspoken, stubborn, and impulsive, allowing her emotions to come out, as she angrily yelled that they should kill the terriosts that come to visit their home.
"Yes I'm fine. I'm Naruto and you are?" Naruto told her in sign language.
"Well I'm Karui and I hope you have a good fight. Later" she said while walking away.
'She seems nice. I wonder if she's from out of town' he thought in his mind as he shivered.
"Well I guess you met Karui. Hi I'm Omoi" the black boy said to the blonde.
Omoi is a young, dark-skinned boy with short, spiky, white hair and dark eyes accentuated with eyelashes curving upwards from the corners. He wears a dark gi outfit consisting of an overlong hood, with red bandage hand guards, shin guards, and a black headband. He is always seen with a thoughtful expression, as though always in deep contemplation and sucking on a lollipop. He is 16 years old.
Omoi is a very cautious person and likes to think things through before acting, and as a result, gets lost in his thoughts quite often. He is more level-headed than his friend Karui, but often demonstrates a wild imagination and has a habit of exaggerating the end result of minor things (like when Karui threw a rock at him and he believed it would cause an avalanche) and likes to make fun of Karui's hot-headed personality with painful also has respect for people who stand by their word, even if they are the enemy.
"Yes I have. Are you her friend?" Naruto asked in sign language.
"Sorta but I can't wait to see who fights who since we all draw numbers earlier" Omoi said while being interested.
Naruto nodded as he watches Omoi walk away.
Zaku looks at eveyone and thinks that they are weak. Another boy name Hibachi also thinks the same thing. While a young boy name Inari was nervous about this.
Zaku is 16 years old. He has spiky, black hair and dark eyes. He wore a beige gi with two black stripes and three prints of the kanji for death down the front. He wears a snake-patterned scarf around his neck.
Zaku is overconfident about his skills, especially the ones coming from his arms, and the fact he went into elaborate detail about his abilities. As such, he believed no one could beat him, and had a strong desire to win; however, he managed to be unaware of the enemies' plan until it was too late. also had a tendency to say whatever he wanted without regarding the consequences, as he calls someone names. He was also described as loyal, and a show-off. He dreams to be a brutal kung fu teacher as he lives in Otogakure.
'I can't wait to show these losers whose boss' he said in his mind by smirking.
Hibachi is a tall boy from Konohagakure. He is 16 years old. He has a short crop of light brown hair and stone-colored eyes. He wears a blue gi. For causual clothes he wears a light yellow shirt and wearing a blue sport jacket, grey pants, white shoes, short crop light brown hair and stone colored eyes. Hibachi goes to Konoha High and is one of Naruto's bullies as he had put Naruto's head in the toliet when the blonde first came to the school. He hangs out with Suka's group as he doesn't know what he wants to do in his life yet. His best friends are Unagi, Fuki and Kasumi.
He is mean, crude, cocky, arrogant and spoil. He likes hanging out with Suka and wants to see Naruto suffer.
'I can't wait to see how charity case cries like a baby' he thought in his mind with a mean grin.
Inari has spiky black hair and dark-colored eyes. He is from the Wave Country and he is 14 years old. As a child, he wore a green jumpsuit with a yellow shirt and a simple pair of sandals. He also wore a blue and white striped hat under the brim of which he would usually look at people. Before that, he wore a blue jumpsuit without a hat. As a teenager, he grew his hair out a bit and donned a similar attire to that of his grandfather consisting of a grey, sleeveless, v-neck shirt, a pair of pants and carried a towel around his neck.
He is now wearing a green gi for the tournament. Inari first appeared to be a very tough individual, though this was just a ruse he put on to hide the loneliness he felt since the death of Kaiza. He would often spend most of his time in his room staring at a photo of his father, conflicted by the feelings he had of loss and anger towards the man for dying, though he did so protecting their small village. Inari has also been described as a contrarian usually taking up a position opposed by the majority of a group, no matter how unpopular. After reading stories about Naruto Uzumaki, Inari's personality began to outwardly change. Reminded of his father and his beliefs, Inari would be inspire to do kung fu that is similar to him.
He dreams of being a great martial artist like his late stepfather and Naruto who is his biggest influence. He felt that Naruto was similar to him since he heard rumors about his past. And he wanted to know if Naruto being mute was true.
"Hi you must be Naruto. My name is Inari and I love your fighting style" Inari said by smiling to the blonde.
Naruto shakes his hand and he senses that the boy went through tragedy just like him.
'We're the same. Even though we both still have a family in our life now' the blonde thought in his mind.
"The feelings is mutal and I hope to fight you in the tournament" Naruto signed to him in sign language.
"Sure same here" Inari said as he walked away.
'So it's true he is mute. Naruto's aura is also different from all the other fighters that are here' Inari thought in his mind.
In the audience the rookie 8 was watching the fight. As Neji had just defeated a random person with his Tai Chi style.
"I wonder who Neji has to fight next" Hanabi said to her sister.
Hinata looks at the match up and said, "He has to fight Zaku".
Kiba sighs as he said, "Zaku gonna lose since he only uses his hands".
Everyone nodded in agreement.
Neji tells Zaku in the ring, "Give up or get hurt".
Zaku smirks as he said "No way".
Neji then said to him, "Your funeral".
Zaku couldn't react in time as Neji ran so fast that he punches Zaku in the stomack knocking him out.
"The winner is annoyance" the world touranment speaker is. Neji walks out of the ring to wipe the sweat off of him.
"Looks like I will fight Naruto sooner then I thought" he said out loud.
Everyone in the audience was cheering for Neji. Including Sakura, Sasuke, Ino, Tenten, Shikamaru, Kiba, Hinata, Hanabi and Margaret.
"The next match is Naruto vs Hibachi. Please come to the stage" the announcer said.
As Naruto and Hibachi were walking to the stage the rookie 8 were shock.
'How is Hibachi here?' Hinata angrily thought.
'Suka probably wanted Hibachi to make Naruto suffer as always' Ino thought in her mind.
'Man I didn't know Hibachi was here' Kiba thought.
'Troublesome can't we go through one day without Suka's lackeys' Shikamaru thought.
'Naruto Oniichan do your best' Hanabi happily thought.
'So this is one of the bullies I heard about from Hinata' Margaret worried in thought.
'Naruto get him out of here' Sakura angrily thought in her mind.
'I hope Hibachi gets what is coming to him' Sasuke thought.
"Are both fighters ready?" the announcer said.
Both of them nodded and bowed to each other.
"Begin!" the announcer said.
Naruto starts off the match by using his Shaolin style by kicking him in the stomach. Hibachi screams in pain as he gets up.
"Your pay for that" Hibachi said in anger by trying to punch him. However Naruto easily dodges every attack.
"Give Up" Naruto told him in sign language.
"Never! You don't know how much I can't stand you. You make me sick and I wish you never came to my school" Hibachi said in rage.
"Give Up. I'm not saying it again. You lost the match the moment you step in the ring" Naruto signed with his hands.
"No I haven't. You haven't touch me all over my body" Hibachi said in anger.
"You baka. I already had" Naruto signed with his hands.
Hinata saw what Hibachi was feeling. Hibachi was feeling pain inside his stomach. All Hibachi could do was scream in pain.
Naruto's Shaolin style is the Drunken Fist style. But the style also has stamina, flexibility, and balance, which improve the body abilities in doing martial maneuvers. In Shaolin kung fu, flexibility and balance skills are known as "childish skill" (童子功), which have been classified into 18 postures.
The Shaolin style is one of the oldest, largest, and most famous styles of wushu or kungfu. It combines Ch'an philosophy and martial arts and originated and was developed in the Shaolin temple in Henan province, China during its 1500-year history. Popular sayings in Chinese folklore related to this practice include "All martial arts under heaven originated from Shaolin" and "Shaolin kung fu is the best under heaven", indicating the influence of Shaolin kung fu among martial arts. The name Shaolin is also used as a brand for the so-called external styles of kung fu. Many styles in southern and northern China use the name Shaolin.
The Drunken fist, also known as Zui Quan, is a Chinese Kung Fu style that resembles the actions of a drunk person. It relies on a technique called Coiling, where you relax your body before striking, then tense up and rocket yourself forward, using your feet and lower body. Many aspects of drunken boxing are specialized towards deception: continuous bobbing and weaving and slipping, feigning instability and lack of focus, attacking from unusual angles and seemingly weak positions, sudden changes of momentum, compounding multiple attacks with the same limb, use of blind-spots and visual distractions, changing game plans in mid-fight and employing concealed or improvised weapons.
Like many styles of kung fu, drunken boxing employs a wide variety of attacks, including striking, chin na and wrestling, with trapping range fighting as a default skill. Strikes and grabs are alternated with the hands striking as they extend towards the enemy and grabbing as they retract . The power for grabs is sometimes generated by dropping the body, either through slightly lifting the feet of the ground and then stomping down with the weight of the entire body or by falling to the prone.
Some styles of drunken boxing use traditional kung fu weapons, often the jian or gun. The Bā yǐng quán wine boxing system includes many weapons, including saber, spear, guan dao, flute, fan, gourd bottle, sash, sash tied to guard and more.
The Daoist style of zui quan imitates the characters of the "Drunken Eight Immortals" (八仙; ba xian), which are a group of legendary immortals in Chinese mythology. First described in the Yuan Dynasty, they were probably named after the Eight Immortal Scholars of the Han. Most of them are said to have been born in the Tang or Song dynasty. They are revered by Daoists and are also a popular element in the secular Chinese culture. In drunken kung fu, the eight immortals are used as martial archetypes, or as eight sub-styles of drunken kung fu. Each immortal has his or her own strategy and mindset. This style is a complete system itself comprising 8 forms, each representing one of the eight immortal characters: Lu Dongbin (吕洞宾), the leader of the 8 immortals, with a sword on his back that dispels evil spirits, swaying back and forth to trick the enemy, the drunken with internal strength. Li Tieguai (李铁拐), Li, the cripple, walks with an iron cane, feigns the weakness of having just one leg, to win the fight with one powerful leg. Han Zhongli (汉钟离), the strongest immortal, carries a large cauldron of wine, tackles the enemies with strength. Lan Caihe (蓝采和), sexually ambiguous, carries a bamboo basket, attacking the enemies with swaying waist, mostly feminine postures. Zhang Guolao (张果老), old man Zhang, donkey rider, with his entertaining postures on the donkey, and his donkey's lethal swift double kicks. Cao Guojiu (曹国舅), the youngest immortal, a clever, controlled fighter, locks and breaks the joints (擒拿; qin na), attacks the deadly soft parts of the enemy body (点穴; dian xue). Han Xiangzi (韩湘子), flute-playing immortal, denying and countering the enemy attacks with powerful wrists. He Xiangu (何仙姑), Miss He, flirting with the enemy to cover her short-range attacks, evading the enemy attacks with the twisting body.
"I used my Shaolin style and combined it with the Drunken Fist style. However I mastered the 8 steps of the Drunken Fist without being drunk. I guess me getting drunk that time had inspire me to learn the said art' Naruto thought in his mind as he bowed in respect.
"Hibachi is unable to move. Naruto is the winner" the announcer said through the mic.
"Yatta" Sakura and Ino shouted.
"Yeah who!" Kiba shouted.
"Hn it was a good fight" Sasuke said with a smile.
"Troublesome Hibachi needs to go to anger management" Shikamaru said while being bore.
"Yeah Naruto Oniichan won" Hanabi happily saud to Margaret.
Margaret said in her mind with relief 'Thank Goodness'.
"That was awesome Naruto" Hinata whispered.
"The next match is annoyance vs Karui" the announcer said.
Neji and Karui both stand in the ring as they begin to fight.
'She's different from Zaku' Neji thought.
'He's different from a random fighter' Karui thought.
Both punched each other in the cheek.
Both are exhausted from punching and kicking each other.
'I'm no match for him. His level is way above me' Karui thought.
She gets up and surprises everyone by pulling a rung out. Even this shocks Neji.
"See ya pretty boy. Enjoy kicking Omoi's ass for me" Karui said by strugging to stand up as she carry away by doctors.
"The winner is Neji I mean annoyance" the announcer said through the mic.
Everyone pushes off their shock and cheers.
"The next match is Naruto vs Inari" the announcer shouted.
Both Naruto and Inari are in the ring as Naruto is using his taekwondo style against Inari. While Inari is using somewhat the same style.
Naruto's taekwondo style is Jeet Kune Do that is similar to Bruce Lee. While Inari's taekwondo style is Wushu that is simliar to Wong Fei Hung. Both were evenly matched as they would stop throwing punches or kicks. The two has bloody lips for starters. The match could go either way.
Jeet Kune Do is a hybrid philosophy of martial arts heavily influenced by the personal philosophy and experiences of martial artist Bruce Lee. Lee founded the system on July 9, 1967, referring to it as "non-classical", suggesting that it is a formless form of Chinese Kung Fu. Unlike more traditional martial arts, Jeet Kune Do is not fixed or patterned and is a philosophy with guiding ideas. Named for the Wing Chun concept of interception or attacking when one's opponent is about to attack, Jeet Kune Do's practitioners believe in minimal effort with maximum effect and extreme speed.
JKD believes the best defense is a strong offense, hence the principle of an "intercepting fist". For someone to attack another hand-to-hand, the attacker must approach the target. This provides an opportunity for the attacked person to "intercept" the attacking movement. The principle of interception may be applied to more than intercepting the actual physical attack; non-verbal cues (subtle movements of which opponent may be unaware) may also be perceived or "intercepted", and thus used to one's advantage. The "five ways of attack", categories which help JKD practitioners organize their fighting repertoire, comprise the offensive teachings of JKD. The concepts of "Stop hits & stop kicks", and "Simultaneous parrying & punching," based on the concept of single fluid motions which attack while defending (in systems such as épée fencing and Wing Chun), compose JKD's defensive teachings. These were modified for unarmed combat and implemented into the JKD framework by Lee to complement the principle of interception.
Inari's wushu style is call Taijiquan (太極拳) as it is a wushu style mistakenly famous for slow, relaxed movements, often seen as an exercise method for the elderly, and sometimes known as "T'ai chi" in Western countries to those otherwise unfamiliar with wushu. This wushu form (42 form) is a modern recompilation based on the Yang (楊) style of Taijiquan, but also including movements of the Chen (陳), Wu (吳), Wu (武), and Sun (孫) styles. Competitive contemporary taiji is distinct from the traditional first form for styles it draws from, in that it typically involves difficult holds, balances, jumps and jump kicks. Modern competitive taiji requires good balance, flexibility and strength. The traditional second forms however like cannon fist, are more difficult than the modern forms, but are less known and usually taught to advanced students.
Both fighters are exhausted as Naruto never felt like this before. Inari also felt the same way.
'He's good' they both thought.
The two get up to use the last of their strength to deliver the final blow. The two run as they deliver a punch however Inari falls as Naruto gives Inari a powerful uppercut that sends him into unconsciousness.
Inari lays on the floor as Naruto wipes his mouth.
'That was a good fight Inari. If we ever met again I definetly want to battle you' Naruto thought while smiling.
"The winner is Naruto. And the semi final match will begin in right now" the announcer said as Naruto walked away to go clean his injuries before the final match. Inari on the other hand is carry away by a doctor.
"Wow that match was like brutal" Kiba said in shock.
"Naruto and Inari were not even holding back" Sakura said in shock.
"If you ask me it felt scary" Sasuke honestly said.
Hanabi and Margaret also agreed with the Uchiha.
"I wonder how Naruto will last against Neji" Ino said in concern.
"Troublesome at least the tourament is almost over" Shikamaru said while getting tire.
"Hey have you notice how Naruto acted while doing his two different kung fu styles?" Sakura adked Hinata.
"What do you mean?" Hinata said in confusion.
"It felt like Naruto is a pacifist but he showed it in a way as if you are on nothing but water" Sakura said while thinking about it.
'He's probably thinking of the water in the tea cup philosophy' Hinata thought.
Sakura sighs as she said, "I hope Naruto will be fine".
In the ring Neji was still fighting Omoi. The two were punching each other non stop as Omoi almost had his right arm broken. However Neji sneaks behind him and breaks his left arm. This causes Omoi trying not to scream. Neji tells him to surrender but Omoi refuses. Neji then breaks Omoi's right leg and Omoi cries in pain. Neji tells him to give up once again and Omoi yells I foreit out loud. Neji let's go and Omoi is carry away by a doctor.
"We have a winner! Now Naruto will fight our mystery fighter" the announcer said through the mic.
The World Tournament announcer has blonde hair, wears black sunglasses, and a navy-blue/black business suit with a red necktie. He likes looking at kung fu and he is 33 years old. For the most part, he is shown to have an eccentric personality, being very loud and demonstrative whenever describing the battle occurring in front of him, along with showing the amazement of the unique techniques every fighter he sees uses. But a major flaw he is shown to have is not starting the countdown at the correct time due to him being too distracted with the events occurring around him, and if he did not have this trait, many fights would have ended differently or earlier based on the time he started the countdown. He seems to have an understanding of kung fu styles and is familiar with a select few of them.
5 minutes later Naruto walks out to the ring and he is shock to see that his enemy is Neji.
"I guessing your shock to see me" Neji said to him. Naruto nods his head.
"This tournament was my idea and my surprise to you" Neji said while smiling.
"But why here instead of in Konoha?" the blonde signed to him.
"Who knows. But at least our rivalry is a healthy one instead of an intoxious one" Neji said while crossing his arms.
Naruto didn't know if he should smile or be confused.
"After all we are exactly the same" Neji said while smirking.
Now Naruto was confuse. Before he can ask him Neji interrupts saying, "Let's fight Naruto. No holding back and only use the fighting style that you didn't use today".
Both boys get into their Eight Trigrams stance as the announcer said begin.
Both them run and do air palm hand movements by blocking each others attack. Both of them dodges each others punch and they leaf into the air by punching each other on a cheek. They fall down while landing on the ring. They run by punching each other in the stomach as they fell pain. Neji gives Naruto a right black eye while Naruto gives Neji a left black eye.
Both boys nearly break a arm and leg as they fought. The two are so in snyc that they couldn't predict each others move. The fight was going on for 20 minutes and they felt their bodies aching. The two were moving around fighting each other in circles non stop.
'The Eight Trigrams style is real' Hanabi thought in her mind.
Baguazhang contains an extremely wide variety of techniques as well as weapons, including various strikes (with palm, fist, elbow, fingers, etc.), kicks, joint locks, throws, and distinctively evasive circular footwork. As such, Baguazhang is considered neither a purely striking nor a purely grappling martial art. Baguazhang practitioners are known for their ability to "flow" in and out of the way of objects. This is the source of the theory of being able to fight multiple attackers. Baguazhang's evasive nature is also shown by the practice of moving behind an attacker, so that the opponent cannot harm the practitioner.
Although the many branches of Baguazhang are often quite different from each other (some, like Cheng style, specialize in close-in wrestling and joint locks, while others, like some of the Yin styles, specialize in quick, long-range striking), all have circle walking, spiraling movement, and certain methods and techniques (piercing palms, crashing palms, etc.) in common.
Baguazhang's movements employ the whole body with smooth coiling and uncoiling actions, utilizing hand techniques, dynamic footwork, and throws. Rapid-fire movements draw energy from the center of the abdomen. The circular stepping pattern also builds up centripetal force, allowing the practitioner to maneuver quickly around an opponent.
'Naruto is this strong. I never felt this tire before' Neji thought while rubbing his elbow.
'Man does he ever give up? This is getting no more. Sure I don't mind fighting Neji, but I don't want to hurt him' Naruto thought while rubbing his eye.
Both boys were breathing heavily as they kept doing spiraling movements. The two even kept doing piercing palms attacks and crashing palms. They were using the Yin Yang style and everyone was cheering.
People were cheering for Naruto while others cheered for Neji. No one didn't want the fight to end.
Both boys were going to pass out soon. Naruto sits down while sighing. Whereas Neji felt pain in his arm. Their kung fu gis were dirty but it looks as if their clothes were tattered.
'I can't give up. I fill so happy especially since this the first touranment that I like in a while' Naruto thought while clenching hid teeth. Blood came out of both boys as they are coughing.
Hinata and everyone was watching. As they was thinking in their minds.
'I hope they don't kill each other' Hinata thought while panicking.
'Troublesome I forgot Tenten went with Choji to help him not eat too much' Shikamaru thought while getting tire.
'I don't know who to cheer for. But I hope they learned something' Hanabi thought while getting worry.
'Man I understand Neji wanting to fight Naruto. But he didn't have to go this far' Margaret thought while trying not to watch.
'Hn I'm glad I don't Naruto as a rival. Just thinking about it makes me want to vomit' Sasuke thought while shivering.
'Man I wish I was down there fighting Neji. Oh wait I don't do kung fu' Kiba thought while trying not to get angry.
'Boys will be boys I guess. Nothing never stops them from a show down' Sakura thought while shaking her head.
Back in the ring both boys were staring at each other. They were both on their knees.
'I guess this it. We can't continue the fight. Damn I was this close to uppercut him' Naruto thought while smirking.
'His heart is in the right place. But he has to learn how to not have regret to harm others' Neji thought while smirking.
Everyone thought about who was going to pass out first.
However Neji said this to Naruto, "I had a great fight with you. But know this you will have to harm someone in a fight sooner or later".
Naruto went wide eyed when he heard that.
"I know your weakness Naruto. Just as you know mine" Neji said while smiling.
'Wait does he hate hurting others without a weapon. Our weaknesses are upside down' Naruto thought while clenching his fist.
"I'm surprise you figure it out. Your smart, intelligent, shy, timid, brave, energetic, a little jealous but you got guts and you mean well. You really are like Belushi" Neji said while trying not to pass out.
Naruto was shock as he felt his body aching.
"Heh I learn a lot from this fight and so have you. Let's fight again sometime little brother" Neji said although he whispered the last part as he passes out. Neji falls to the ground in defeat. As Naruto sees Neji be taking away by doctors he thought one thing in his mind, 'this feeling is nutral Neji. And as of now big brother your my rival'.
"The winner is Naruto!" the announcer said. Naruto sees that the spokemen brought out a treasure chest.
The spokemen told him to pick anything from the chest. Naruto looked through the chest to see anything to have. But there was one thing that spark his curiousness. It was a picture frame of a young woman in her mid twenties who has long red hair and violet eyes. But what made Naruto be shock about the picture is that the woman has facial features that are similar to him.
The announcer sees that Naruto made his choice and tells everyone the touranment is over. Eveyone cheers as Naruto walks out of the ring. Naruto was so tired but he just has to hide his prize from the others. But for now he wanted to get his injuries taking care of.
A mysterious person was walking in the crowd and he has a toothpick in his mouth. The mystery person smirks as he thinks in his mind, 'Looks like he grew up since the last time I saw him. He's still the same on the outside but on the inside he's definetly showing progress. This was the best birthday present I could've asked for. I can't wait to see you again my little shy student'. And with that the mystery person leaves the scene.
Everyone was in the recovery room as Naruto and Neji was getting their bruises taken care of. Neji had regained consciousness.
"Oh come on Hinata. Why do I have to share a room with your sister and maid" Kiba yelled.
"My mom wanted you to be on a dog collar that's why" Hinata said while glaring at him.
"Why You!" Kiba shouted. However Sakura punches him.
"Kiba just deal with it or do you want me to call Hana" Sakura said while clenching a fist.
Kiba went pale upon hearing his sister.
"Troublesome hey Naruto why didn't you take the prize money?" Shikamaru said while eyeing him.
Hanabi laughs as she told the Nara, "Naruto Oniichan doesn't need it. Besides I can tell he isn't in to it".
Naruto signs to them while smiling, "Yep. Plus I already got my prize from that treasure chest".
"What is it if you don't mind me asking?" Sasuke asked.
Naruto eye winks as he signed "It's a secret".
This made Sasuke, Kiba and Shikamaru fall on the floor.
"So what happen with the prize money?" Margaret said to the two boys.
"We gave it to Inari. Naruto thought it was better if Inari should have it" Neji said while clearing the topic up.
"Wow that so sweet!" Ino said while glushing.
This had made Naruto and Neji while embarrass.
"Alright you two are free to go. Have a good day everyone" the doctor said.
Back at the hotel everyone was in their respective room. Naruto had finish writing in his journal as he puts it away in his daffle bag. Hinata decided to keep him company as Shikamaru went to sleep.
"Are you okay?" she asked him.
He looked to his side and saw Hinata who stood next to him on the bed.
"Yeah, I'm fine. That was a really good surprise your brother gave me" he said in sign language while staring at the ceiling.
"You like the Eastern and Western culture?" she asked him.
He nodded his head.
"Both but I like the culture of Chicago for some reason. I can't explain it though" he signed to her while looking at her.
"My favorite seasons are Winter and Summer. Winter because I like going on the mountains to see different types of birds before they head south. Summer because of the ocean, the sun, and the wind" the boy signed to her before playing with his fingers.
Hinata remained quiet as she looked at his beautiful eyes just sparkle.
"What are your favorite seasons, Hinata-chan?" he signed to her while blushing.
"I honestly prefer snowy winter and spring" she replied.
Naruto looked at her surprisingly. "You like snow as well?" he said in sign language.
Hinata nodded her head. "Winter because I can be in my pjs, drink hot chocolate and eat cinnamon buns. Spring is because I can press flowers" she pointed out to the blonde.
"You really like cinnamon buns, huh?" he asked her in sign language.
She couldn't help but act childishly. "My grandmother used to make the best cinnamon rolls that you could taste and love. They were so soft and gooey, and they melt in your mouth" she said while she reminisced. "I wished I knew the recipe…" Hinata said as her voice faded in the distance. "She was supposed to teach me it before she died" she said as her voice got saddened. "Er, but enough about that. I can tell you like the sunny weather, huh?" she said while blushing.
Naruto smiled as he signed to her, "It's so hard to choose between the sunny, rainy and snowy weather. Each one of them has their own characteristic that I enjoy, but if I had to decide on which one it would be the rainy weather. I can see if it's heavy, hear thunder and lighting, touch the rain, see it fall non stop and just watch land on the window. I don't know". He shrugged his shoulders. "It was a wonderful feeling" he sugned with his hands.
"It is, Naruto-kun" Hinata spoke up.
Naruto looked confuse.
"You said it was… it still is" she said as she smiled at him.
Naruto nodded his head. "Yeah, I guess your right. It is" he said in sign language.
"What's so funny?" Naruto said in sign language as raised his eye left eyebrow.
Hinata whispers to him saying, "Shikamaru doesn't have his sting tying his hair so his hair is completely out". Naruto saw what Hinata was laughing at.
The two look as Shikamaru wakes up from his nap.
"Troublesome. I'm up now so let's go eat dinner" Shikamaru said while getting out of the bed.
Everyone was on the beach Hanabi was getting a tan and Margaret was doing the same. Sasuke, Sakura, and Hinata were swimming. Whereas Ino and Kiba were walking to find seashells. While Naruto and Neji sat on the chairs since their bodies were too sore from their kung fu match. They obviously didn't want to go in the water.
Sasuke was the first to come out of the water.
A few seconds later, Sakura and Hinata made their way to the shore and they, too, laughed when they saw what was on Sasuke's chest.
"Ino-chan is going to love this!" Sakura couldn't stop from laughing.
Sasuke was generally confused. He tried wiping his face to feel if there was anything on it, but there was nothing.
Ino and Kiba finally made it to the dock. They strolled down to where the gang was and saw Sasuke who looked confused.
"What's going on?" Ino asked.
Sakura pointed at Sasuke's chest, and Ino just laughed hysterically.
"That's an interesting octopus you got there Sasuke" Kiba says as he grinned. "Squid sucking on Uchiha boy's nipples" he said as he laughed out loud .
"Squid? Nipples?" he muttered. His eyes lingered down to his chest and were surprised to see a small octopus latched onto his chest. His whole body turned red. "S…stop laughing!" he shouted. He quickly turned around and removed the octopus from his chest.
He was so anger and embarrass. Sasuke just wanted everyone to stop laughing. He was happy that Naruto and Neji won't laughing. However he could see that Hanabi and Margaret were in their own little world.
"I wish I had my camera because I knew Milky-san would have loved to see that" Hinata said as she mischievously grinned.
Sasuke turned around and said "Hinata-chan! don't you dare".
"It's okay, Hinata-chan" Ino said. "Shikamaru-kun already took a picture" she said while giggling.
Sasuke's facecwas overshadowed as he saw Shikamaru waving at him with a blank expression.
"Nara You traitor!" Sasuke cried as he rushed to him.
Shikamaru eyes widened as he tried to escape Sasuke who chased him into the water. "Hey!" Shikamaru cried when Sasuke grabbed him by the waist.
"Hn Where do you think your going, Shikamaru?" Sasuke questioned playfully. The grin plastered on his face widened when he saw Kiba grabbed Shikamaru by his ankles lifting his legs up.
"You ready?" Kiba asked.
Sasuke nodded and smirked.
"Hey! Wait!" Shikamaru yelled.
"Go!" both shouted.
Kiba laughed while Sasuke smirks as they threw Shikamaru in the water. Naruto and Neji shake their heads atvthe misfortune of the lazy boy.
The boy sat on the ocean floor and he gazed at the blue sky.
"All I wanted was a simple life, with a simple wife, and kids. What a drag" he muttered in the water.
He heard the group's voices fade in the background as they left him behind.
"Shikamaru-kun, hurry up!" Ino shouted.
"Troublesome" he said while swimming back.
Their footstep left an imprint on the sand as they made their way further up the island's shore, and the gentle ocean can be heard from the distance.
"Naruto!" He heard someone yell. The group stopped suddenly when they saw a table layered with food fit for a king. "I present you the Choji Korean special!" Choji boasted as he wiped his nose.
Choji then said "Don't worry there's no sesame or pork in any of these dishes!". Hinata sighs in relief after hesring that.
Naruto eyed the food and was astounded. "Did- did you cook all of this?" he said in sign language while stuttering.
Choji couldn't help but smirk, proud of himself. "Sure did!" he said by pointing to himself. "In case you didn't know, but I've won Konoha's cook-off three straight years in a row. I'm a pro at this" he said while his teeth glistened in the sun. "Enjoy!" he said while sitting down.
The group ate together, enjoying the meal. Naruto was sending some glares at Neji and Neji would return them. Naruto picked a piece of chicken and tear into it, while Neji slurped on an octopus tentacle that was still moving.
"You know Naruto It's okay if you can't eat all of this wonderful food Choji made for you, but it would be a shame if it were to go to waste" Neji replied in a smirk cocky tone. "But It's ok. I'll make sure all the food is gone" he said before he ate again.
Hanabi and Margaret where annoy as Neji always did this with Lee. 'I'm glad his rivalry with Naruto is healthy. But this is so wrong' both girls thought in their minds.
The group looked at Neji then at Naruto who grinned. "Oh don't worry. I'm sure I can eat more than you. I don't need your help finishing this extra food Choji made" He signed with his hands before he slurped some ramen into his mouth.
The two glared at one another and electricity just sparked between the two was seen for the first time.
Hinata chewed on the strawberry and watched the scene in amusement. Naruto grabbed some rice and threw it into his mouth and swallowed it without chewing on it. Choji stared wide eye, expecting the boy to choke on it but it never happened.
Neji also grabbed some rice balls and shoved three in his mouth at a time, which made Choji drink his water.
"Guys, maybe you shouldn't eat so much because you might vomit" Ino replied nervously.
But the two didn't hear her at all and they ate as much as they could, glaring at one another and making smart remarks.
After a while, the two stared at one another. Their stomachs were bloated, making them appear to be pregnant. The staredown continued until they felt something in their stomachs trying to make its way back up. They turned their head and everyone's eyes widened in disbelief. Sakura put down the chicken when she heard the two barfing everything they had just consumed.
"Alright, I'm just done" Ino said throwing the fork on the top of the table.
Hinata also joined her, along with Kiba, Sakura, Sasuke, Shino, Hanabi, Margaret and Shikamaru. They all left the two boys who were kneeling and gagging onto the grass.
"W-wait" Neji said as he outstretched his arm.
Naruto held his mouth as the vomit continued to push its way up.
The trip back to the hotel was silent as the sun started to set. The orange-pink color painted the skies, and even the ocean became stagnant. Hinata, who sat in between Shino and Naruto, yawned. She was tired from today's events and couldn't keep her eyes open to save her life. Her eyes became heavy and she felt her head swaying; so she decided to rest her head on Shino's shoulder. Her hair tickled his cheek, as he too was dozing off. He'd grumbled something inaudible but decided to let the girl nap. Naruto gazed slightly in the corner of his eyes and saw Hinata resting her head on Shino.
Shino carried Hinata on his back and made his way towards the hotel. It was a quiet stroll back, and no one said anything.
The group broke apart in their respective rooms. Naruto wrapped the towel around his neck as he was the last one to shower. However Choji had visited Naruto and Shikamaru. While Sasuke was with Shino. Whereas Hinata was with Sakura and Ino. While Kiba was with Hanabi and Margaret. However it was unknown what Tenten was doing.
"You learned your lesson the first time, huh?" Shikamaru grinned. "Ow!" he shouted when Naruto threw his wet towel on his face.
"Choji, where did you learn to cook like that? I've never had ramen so tasty" Naruto said in sign language, who sat on the floor; he folded his legs.
"Troublesome. Was it before or after you vomited it up?" Shikamaru gave him the side-eye.
Naruto threw a pillow at his face, while glaring at him.
"Anyway his dad is one of the top chefs in Konoha" Shikamaru replied in a bored tone.
Choji nodded his head in excitement. "I'm going to be better than him one day" he happily grinned.
"You can do it!" Naruto said in sign language as he gave him a thumbs up.
"Thank you" Choji said as he smiled. "What about you? What does your father do?" he asked.
The room became eerily silent, and Choji was generally confused for once and then he realized what he asked. Shikamaru wanted to smack Choji because Sasuke had told him and the rest of the gang about Naruto's home situation.
Naruto rubbed the back of his head and smiled slightly. "I'm not sure" he said in sign language. "But hopefully it was something pretty good" he signed with his hands while being happy. "Hitomi-sama and Hiashi are going to find out who my parents were. I'm really excited to learn more about them" he signed while trying to control his excitment.
"She is?" Shikamaru questioned. "I know your happy" he said while smiling.
Naruto rocked back and forth, and his smile got widened even larger.
"I'm finally going to find out who they are" Naruto signed with his hands.
"I bet you 20 dollars you look more like your mom" Choji said while rolling off of his stomach. "You look more like a woman than a man" hecsaid while laughing.
Shikamaru covered his mouth as tried to contain his chuckles.
"What was that!" Naruto angrily signed with his hand. "I- I do not like a girl" he signed while blushing.
"It's so Troublesome but yes, you do and if you had long hair you couldn't fool anybody" Shikamaru says as he laughed.
Choji shook his head in agreement.
"And you have a nice slender body" the chubby boy said.
Naruto covered himself self-consciously on a bed as he is embarrassed.
"I'm still growing!" he signed with his hands in anger while showing his hands from out of the blanket.
"Yeah sure if you say so" Kiba fanned him off.
In the girl's room, Hinata was blow-drying her hair, while Ino and Sakura fought as Sakura was telling Ino that she's sharing a room with Choji. And that the blonde couldn't sleep in her and Hinata's room. Hinata let out a loud groan when she was hit in the back of the head with a pillow.
"Ne, Hinata-chan" Sakura said behind the girl. "Naruto-kun seemed a bit jealous when you rested your head on Shino-kun's shoulder she said with a grin on her face.
Hinata face turned completely red. "What are you talking about?" she said as she turned to face the girl.
"I thought I was the only one who saw that" Ino also said with a smirk. "He gave Shino-kun that look" Ino also said while trying to make out Naruto's facial expression.
Sakura squealed. "Naruto-kun likes you Hinata-chan. You better grab him before somebody else does" she said in a teasing tone.
"But I don't like him" she yelled out. But her voice trailed off when she saw Sakura glaring at her.
She angrily said to her, "It's written all over your face lover girl. Your in love and there is no denying it". She crossed her arms and said, "Why are you being so stubborn?".
"Yeah I agree Forehead. Do you remember when she hit me because I wanted to see his face?" Ino said as she frowned. "Possessive much" she also said.
Hinata couldn't help but frown at them. Sakura and Ino stared at her oddly.
"You really don't like him?" Ino questioned her.
"I mean, I don't know! I've never had feelings for anyone before?" she replied in a unsurely way.
Sakura placed her hand on her cheek as she thought about it. "I mean you do got all the symptoms of being in love" she said while picturing it.
"It's complicated I suppose" Hinata honestly responded. "I mean he's cute…" she quietly whispered. She glared at Ino and Sakura who was grinning down at her.
"Yes, go on" Ino said in a smooth voice.
"He's cute and?" Sakura said with a smile.
There was no response. "Well suit yourself, Hinata-chan. I might just end up snatching Naruto-kun away from you" Ino happily boasted.
"I'm going to bed!" Hinata said racing to one of the queen-size bed. She jumped on it and rolled herself in the sheets and blankets.
"Wait! Are you serious?" Sakura cried as she tried to free Hinata from the blanket. "I don't want to sleep on the couch"
"You can sleep on the floor" Ino laughed when she decided to leave the room.
Night time approached and Hinata couldn't rest. She had given in last night and allow Sakura to sleep with her, much to her dislike because everyone knew Sakura was a bad sleeper. The bed shook slightly as she got off and put on short polka dot pants. She grabbed the room key and left the room. Unknown to her, that Ino hear her.
Her mind raced back to what Ino and Sakura were saying, and she couldn't brush off the feeling. Why did she get so attached to Naruto?
Oh yeah because she was tired of people bullying other people. She sighed mentally because she also remembered what Hanabi said.
"How can you say that when you were the one once pointing the stick?" Hanabi said as she eyed her. Hinata stopped what she was doing. "What gives you the right to talk down on anyone when you were once like that?" she inquired. "Maybe if Naruto-kun knew how you used to act before he showed up you wouldn't be like this" she said while glaring at her.
Suppose if Naruto lost respect for her if he knew how much of a bully she used to be. Hinata groaned mentally as she had to add on another problem. She didn't want Naruto to look at her differently.
She took the elevator down to the main lobby and went to the 24-hour snack bar. She grabbed a bowl of ice-cream and some fruits and head outside. It was still night and the stars sparkled with delight.
She sat down on the chair and went to eat some of the ice-cream when she spotted blue eyes staring at her.
"Naruto-kun!" she got up and walked over to him. He was eating some fruits and ramen.
He rubbed the back of his head. "I guess I overdid it trying to compete with Neji, but I was really hungry" he said in sign language while blushing. Hinata couldn't help but laugh.
"Would you like to join me?" he signed with his hands.
Hinata grabbed her food from the table and went to join Naruto.
"I'm surprised your up to this late" Naruto signs with his hands before eating again.
"Yeah, Sakura-chan is a bad sleeper" Hinata said as she sighed. "She's a bad snorer too" she also added.
"I'm sorry to hear that. It can't be worst than Shikamaru talking in his sleep" he signed to her while looking at her.
Hinata fanned him off. "It's alright. I couldn't sleep anyway" shecsaid to him.
"Why not?" he asked her in sign language as he finished his ramen.
Hinata stared into his eyes and she felt her heart leap.
"I was just thinking about something" she said while feeling depressed.
He tilted his head to the side, innocently.
"About what?" he signed with his hands.
"Naruto-kun, could you ever hate me?" she honestly asked him.
He nearly choked on an apple.
"H-hate? How could I ever hate you? You been so kind to me and you have done a lot for me" he said in sign language while freaking out
"What if I wasn't always like this?" Hinata said as she played with her ice-cream that was melting.
Naruto placed his fruit down. "What do you mean?" he signed to her.
"It's nothing. It was just a silly question" Hinata said as she laughed nervously.
Naruto knew the girl wanted to say more, but he didn't want to come off as forceful. "Well, I'm glad I met you, Hinata-chan. You have a beautiful soul and aura too" he said in sign language as he smiled dreamily. "I just can't imagine you like all those other people at that school" he signed with his hands while looking at her.
Hinata heart shattered. She swallowed the lump in her throat.
She let out a painful smile. "I'm glad you feel that way" she said with a fake smile.
For some reason, those words really hurt her because she was not a beautiful person like Naruto just mentioned. She was just that bad as the other people who went to Konoha High. She was a bully too, and she did look down at other people. If Naruto knew that if only he had known that he would probably be very disappointed in her.
She jumped when she felt his rough hand pressed against her cheek. "Are you okay?" he signed with his hands as he let's go of her cheek while he is concerned.
She couldn't turn away from him. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to startle you, but you turned pale for a moment" he said in sign language. He now placed his hand on the table.
Hinata chewed the bottom of her lips and held onto his hand tightly. Naruto glanced at her and was flabbergasted.
"Sorry if my hand is sweaty, but you make me nervous" he said in sign language as he nervously grinned.
'I make Naruto-kun nervous?' Hinata thought in her mind.
He lays his head down on her shoulder and the two stayed like that for a while.
"I'm glad I met you out here, Hinata-chan" Naruto told her in sign language. "I was honestly hoping I would meet you out here and my wish came true" he happily said in sign language.
"I'm glad I met you out here too, Naruto-kun" she happily said.
"Your ice-cream is going to melt soon" he signed with his hands while looking at it.
"Eh, it doesn't matter" she said while blushing.
"Are you tired?" he asked in sign language. Hinata shook her head. "Do you want to go for a walk?" he signed to her.
"Sure. I would love that" she said to him in a kind tone.
The two teens got up and walked the shorelines of the beach. The moon was full and reflected in the shimmering waters. Naruto had let go of Hinata's hand and the two walked side by side in quietness.
"Hinata-chan, do you think they are going to find out?" he said to her in sign language.
"Find out about what?" she asked.
"That I tried to kill myself" He signed to her with his hands. But he stopped and stared down at the sand. "Will they look at me differently too?" he asked in sign language.
Hinata stepped in front of Naruto and hugged him. "Don't concern yourself with little things that haven't happened, Naruto-kun" she said as she frowned.
Naruto returned the hug and let out a sigh of relief. 'I know. I think I overthink a lot' he thought in his mind.
Hinata felt safe in his arms and didn't want him to let go. Naruto felt his heart rate increase and his body was hot.
After a while, Naruto eventually let go of her. "Thank you for everything, Hinata-chan" he signed with his hands as he smiles.
Hinata shook her head. "I should be thanking you, Naruto-kun" sh said while she smiled brightly.
"Why are you thanking me?" he signed to her in confusion.
"Because you shown me so much and you have also made me see so many emotions I never knew I had. I want to always be your side" she said while grabbing his hands. Naruto however steps away, he covered his face and stooped down. "Ne, Naruto-kun are you okay?" shecasked him.
He looked up at her and pouted. "Don't say things like that" he signed while looking away
Hinata tilted her head to the side. "Did I say something wrong?" she said in confusion.
Naruto played with the ocean water and couldn't help but smile. "No, you didn't" hecsigned to her while grinning.
It was Saturday July 18, 2000
Everyone was visting one historical temple before they leave tommorrow. The temple that they are at is a Buddhism temple. To learn about the life of a monk.
There are following types of Butsuden or Butsu-dō: the simplest is a 3x3 bay square building (where "bay" is the space between two pillars, a unit of measurement in Japanese architecture called ken (間) in Japanese and equivalent to between 181 cm and 197 cm) with no mokoshi (裳階) (a mokoshi being an enclosure circling the core of the temple covered by a pent roof, usually one bay in width. The second type is also 3x3 bay square, but has a 1 bay wide mokoshi all around the core of the temple, making it look like a two-story, 5x5 bay building as in the case of the butsuden, visible in the photo on the right. It is also known that during the 13th and 14th centuries very large butsuden measuring 5x5 bays square having a mokoshiwere built, but none survives. Large size 3x3 bay butsuden with a mokoshi however still exist, for example at Myōshin-ji(see photo in the Gallery section below).
Everyone was amaze by the temple's appearance as a old monk was giving them the tour.
The monk tells them that Buddhist monasteries have been part of the Japanese cultural landscape ever since the 7th century CE, and they remained both powerful and socially important institutions right through the medieval period. Today, many of Japan's finest examples of ancient and medieval architecture are located at templecomplexes, a good number of which are classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The monks who lived, worked, and meditated in Buddhist monasteries not only served their local communities on their way to reaching enlightenment but also produced some of Japan's finest historical works of art in painting, sculpture, and calligraphy.
Everyone saw the Bell Tower (Shoro) which provides the bell that is used to call monks to prayer and other rituals. The Main Hall (Hondo or Butsudo) where the most sacred religious images are Pagoda (To) which is the wooden tower structure with a spire built to house sacred relics, especially bodily remains of the Buddha such as a tooth or bone. The Lecture Hall (Kodo or Hatto) where lectures are given with the lecturer typically standing in front of a range of Buddhist statues along one wall (except for Zen halls which have no sculpture). The Meditation Hall (Zendo) a place for monks to practise seated meditation. Sutra Repository (Kyozo) where important Buddhist scriptures and texts are kept. Founder's Hall (Kaisando) a hall venerating the founder of the temple. Abbot's Quarters (Hojo) the residence of the abbot which is often connected to the Lecture Hall by a covered walkway. Subtemples (Tachu) are typically small buildings funded by rich patrons. Teahouse (Chashitsu or Sukiya) some monasteries include a teahouse where the traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony is performed. The monk said that tea was first made popular by Chinese Buddhist monks from the 2nd century BCE, and the Japanese added a whole ritual to its serving and drinking, including a special place for it, traditionally a small rustic house of simple materials and bare furnishings. The teahouse may be set in its own special garden (roji), designed to calm the visitor before beginning the ceremony. Imbued with Zen principles, the tea ceremony is often performed for visitors to Buddhist monasteries today.
Shinto Shrines (Jinja) as Buddhism and Shinto have always overlapped to some degree in Japan (until a formal separation in the 19th century CE), and many Buddhist sites have a shrine dedicated to a particular protective Shinto deity or kami. And gardens as many temple sites have large gardens which are frequently landscaped to represent a vision of the Buddhist paradise. The gardens may have different areas of particular trees such as pines and cherry blossom, or areas of moss and bamboo. There are often water features such as waterfalls and ponds with the latter often containing lotus blossoms a symbol of enlightenment as the flower springs from muddy depths and carp fish a symbol of perseverance as they swim upstream to spawn.
The last thing the monk tells them is the routine of a Buddhist Monk. He goes on saying the particular routines of monks very much depended (and still depends) on the particular form of Buddhism practised at their monastery. Still, it is true to say that the daily life of a modern monk has not changed all that much from the life practised by their counterparts in the ancient and medieval periods in Japan.
He even said monasteries are headed by an abbot who is assisted by several senior monks or prelates. Monks must first go through a period of pre-training within a temple before they are officially ordained and permitted to enter a training monastery proper. For a monk to become a temple priest then requires up to three years of training. For a monk to become a trainer of new monks he must complete the temple's full curriculum of studies which may take at least 12 years.
Sighing the monk said that temples could have hundreds of monks living in them in the medieval period, but nowadays 30 or so is a high number. As one would expect, there were regulations to ensure monks lived the austere life that was considered necessary for their minds to concentrate on reaching enlightenment. Regulations varied depending on the sect and the particular abbot but included such things as wearing coarse robes, prohibiting meat, fish, sake, and spicy food, enforcing celibacy, and encouraging monks not to spit or blow their noses too loudly.
He takes the group to a seperate room. Everyone sits down as he explains that Buddhist monks are perhaps most famous in the outside world for their meditation practices. Meditation may take the form of simply sitting and thinking (zazen in Zen Buddhism) or the contemplation of riddles (koan) such as what is the sound of one hand clapping or what was your face like before you were born? While meditating, the monk may face a wall in some sects or the centre of the room or the room's view in others. A session of meditation is often measured by the time it takes to burn down an incense stick (30-40 minutes).
However as an alternative to sedentary meditation, the mind might be focussed by performing simple tasks such as chanting from the sutras, repeating short phrases or mantras, raking the gravel of a dry landscape garden, walking slowly around the grounds or making a mandala - a complex pattern on the floor using coloured sand which visually represents the teachings of Buddha. Zen monks, for example, are expected to meditate for around seven hours a day and, in any case, all the daily tasks they perform should be done with a meditative mind. Even chewing food should cause a Zen monk to contemplate five things: an appreciation of the food, one's worthiness, one's purity, the food's medicinal value, and one's gratitude for the meal.
He drinks tea and explains that when not meditating, monks are otherwise occupied in such tasks as studying religious texts, performing necessary labour tasks such as cleaning, gardening, and food cultivation or asking for alms from the outside local community. For temples which are popular tourist attractions, monks may be on hand to help visitors and act as guides. Meals are communal and often taken in silence. While perhaps not so common today, ancient and medieval monks were often great painters, sculptors and calligraphers, producing works for their own temples and for rulers and the wider community. Kukai (774-835 CE), the founder of Shingon Buddhism, was a scholar, poet and artist who famously made calligraphy an art form in Japan. One of the country's greatest ever painters was the monk Sesshu (real name Toyo, 1420-1506 CE) who specialised in suiboku, that is using only black ink and water on white paper scrolls. It is clear, then, that Buddhist monasteries and their monks have contributed in many ways to everyday life in Japan, both in the past and even today.
Everyone is shock as he shows them a schedule.
A typical day of a modern Zen Buddhist monk is as follows:
*4 am Wake up
*4.10 - 5 am Sutra chanting
*5- 7 am Zazen and interview with abbot
*7 am Breakfast of rice gruel, salted plum, and pickles.
*8 - 10.50 am Cleaning and work duties
*11 am Lunch, typically barley rice, miso soup, cooked vegetable, and pickled radish :
*1 - 3.50 pm Work duty
*4 pm Light meal similar to lunch
*5 - 8.30 pm Zazen and interview with abbot
*9 pm Lights out
*9 - 11 pm Night sitting.
'Wow so it isn't learning kung fu' Naruto and Neji thought.
'Wow this tour was amazing' Hanabi thought.
'The life of a monk is hard' Margaret thought.
Tenten sighs as she thought, 'And I thought China had it bad'.
Shino thought in his mind, 'I really did enjoy the writing'.
Choji thinks in his mind, 'Man if only I knew what food monks eat'.
'Man if I became a monk my mom would kill me' Kiba thought.
'Hn it makes sense because a monk tries to live in peace' Sasuke thought while going pale.
'I wonder what a women does at this temple compare to a boy' Sakura thought in curiousness.
'Troublesome. And here I thought my life was boring and tough becausevof my mom' Shikamaru while not falling asleep.
As everyone left the temple they went back to the hotel as it was 5pm. Everyone had ate dinner and went to their rooms for the last time. Naruto was writing in his journal as Shikamaru was watching him. 'Troublesome. I never thought Naruto would write in a journal' Shikamaru thought before going to sleep. Mostly everyone went to sleep while thinking about what happened on their mini vacation.
It was Sunday morning and it was July 19, 2000.
The trip back home was quiet. Kiba and Shikamaru were asleep on the right side of the RV. Naruto was sleeping as well and Hinata was thinking to herself. Both of them were on the left side of the RV. She felt so many raw emotions: hurt, embarrassment, shyness, nervousness, giddiness, happiness, sadness. Her eyes gazed at Naruto who was under her bunk bed. As he is the person who made her feel this way.
'I really do like him' she thought in her mind. However something caught her eye in Naruto's duffle bag. She grabs the small item quietly as it is on his journal and she sees that it's a picture of... his late mother. Hinata nearly drops the item but she puts it back in in the bag in shock. Hinata goes back on her bed and is panicking. She thinks in her mind, 'That must have been the secret prize that Naruto was talking about. But how is Kaa-san going to tell him that his mother is dead'. Hinata then tries her hardest not to cry while thinking about it.
"Oh Naruto-kun" she quietly whispers to herself.
Authors Note: And finally finish with a long chapter. I'm not gonna lie the chapter was hard to write with less dialogue. Especially when I wanted to show what the characters do after school or on the weekends. And I'm sorry it took me 3 weeks to post it. Since my last update was on February 7. However I got pass my record of 15,000 words again and no spelling errors. This chapter is 31,551 words. My story will have long chapters instead short ones.
How did you enjoy the martial arts tournament? I try to explain the fighting styles of Naruto, Neji and Inari the best way I can. I got inspire from watching Part I of the anime with Hinata and Neji's fight. I did most of the character's inner thoughts as a better understanding of what they saw during the fight. As I didn't want the fights to be focus on too much. This is what I mean when a story does not have superpowers.
Oh for the record and as a reminder this isn't a ninja story so please don't ask me about making the characters have super powers. Everyone knows what Naruto is saying in sign language, so the characters aren't confuse. However Naruto will probably switch both tatics of signing or writing as the story progresses.
Spoiler alert: Genma Shiranui will appear in the story soon then you think. He will appear in the later chapters so be on a look out until then. I am not saying what chapter he will officially appear in as a debut because I want it to be a surprise. But I will give a hint. Guess what chapter he will appear in when you write your review.
Also Naruto starts to notice that he has less panic attacks when he thinks about something positive instead of thinking negative thoughts. As he realized this when he was grounded for 5 days which was probably what he wrote in his journal.
Hitomi and Hiashi will see what Naruto writes in his journal starting in Chapter 9 or 10. More juicy secrets are in my next chapter.
Naruto's era is at modern peaceful times, however there will only be martial arts in the story. There is no chakra, no tail beasts, no kages, no ninja ranks, no super powers and no missions. Just a normal Naruto center Japan. Action will be in the story later on and probably violence but there will less flashbacks.
I will release a new chapter within two weeks. I'm not saying what month or day it will be release but I am planning to release a chapter around the weekend (probably on Fridays).
Here are the characters exact age and birthday in my story:
1. Naruto: 16 years old (October 10, 1984)
2. Hinata: 16 years old (December 27, 1984)
3. Sasuke: 16 years old (July 23, 1984)
4. Sakura: 16 years old (March 28, 1984)
5. Shino: 16 years old (January 23, 1984)
6. Kiba: 16 years old (July 7, 1984)
7. Choji: 16 years old (May 1, 1984)
8. Shikamaru: 16 years old (September 22, 1984)
9. Ino: 16 years old (September 23, 1984)
10. Neji: 17 years old (July 3, 1983)
11. Tenten: 17 years old (March 9, 1983)
12. Rock Lee: 17 years old (November 27, 1983)
13. Gaara: 16 years old (January 19, 1984)
14. Temari: 18 years old (August 23, 1983)
15. Kankuro: 17 years old (May 15, 1984)
16. Hiashi: 46 years old (January 8, 1950)
17. Hitomi: 45 years old (January 9, 1950)
18. Hanabi: 14 years old (March 27, 1989)
19. Hajime: 14 years old (January 6, 1990)
20. Tsunade: 54 years old (August 2, 1940)
21. Jiraiya: 54 years old (November 11, 1940)
22. Orochimaru: 54 years old (October 27, 1940)
23. Iruka: 26 years old (May 26, 1950)
24. Kakashi: 29 years old (September 15, 1950)
25. Hiruzen: 73 years old (February 8, 1920)
26. Biwako: 71 years old (February 9, 1920)
27. Genma: 33 years old (July 17, 1950)
28. Rin: 29 years old (November 15, 1950)
29. Fugaku: 49 years old (August 18, 1945)
30. Mikoto: 44 years old (June 1, 1945)
34. Rachel: 28 years old (February 1, 1950)
35. Itachi: 21 years old (June 9, 1960)
36. Erika: 16 years old (March 31, 1984)
37. Suka: 16 years old (March 27, 1984)
38. Kita: 16 years old (August 8, 1984)
39. Saka: 70 years old (April 5, 1920)
40. Melody: 16 years old (February 14, 1984)
41. Megumi: 16 years old (February 15, 1984)
42. Sugo: 14 years old (June 12, 1990)
43. Sugi: 14 years old (July 4, 1990)
44. Iki: 14 years old (April 3, 1990)
45. Albert: 70 years old (September 7, 1930)
46. Lester: 60 years old (January 24, 1949)
47. Sasori: 35 years old (November 8, 1959)
48. Konohamaru: 14 years old (December 30, 1990)
49. Shizune: 31 years old (November 18, 1950)
50. Might Guy: 30 years old (January 1, 1950)
51. Margaret: 29 years old (November 9,1950)
52. Asuma: 31 years old (October 18, 1950)
53. Kurenai: 31 years old (June 11, 1950)
54. Inari: 14 years old (December 25, 1990)
55. Hibachi: 16 years old (October 1, 1984)
56. Omoi: 16 years old (December 26, 1984)
57. Karui: 17 years old (February 14, 1983)
58. Zaku: 16 years old (September 14, 1984)
Be on the look out for chapter 8, I will post it probably in March.
Well what do you guys think? Please leave a review.
I will be writing chapter 8 next week.
Well Ja Ne Dattebayo!
