SHIBARI: Bound
A/N: I've added YouTube Playlist links for the prior chapters' Musical Scores on my profile page (thank you Sommernacht for your help!)
Chapter Warnings: Language/Mild Violence
Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto.
Chapter 7
A New Mission
(FLASHBACK Continued…)
~4 Years Earlier (Spring 2 AN) – Hyuga Temple Fire Country
The next day, things did not go according to plan.
Neji respectfully sat on his heels in a traditionally styled room with large ancient scrolls of the Hyuga tenets proudly decorating the back wall. To his right, a silently horrified Hanabi kneeled directly in front of Hiashi. To her right, Hinata sat in the same position, her hands twisting together underneath the long sleeves of her kimono. While her face was blank, her eyes held a happy melancholy that churned his insides uncomfortably.
He was numb, dumbfounded, speechless as he tore his gaze away from his beloved and watched Hanabi display all the fire and bite of her namesake.
"Oto-sama! You can't be serious!"
Unaffected, Hiashi nodded his head, once. "I am. It is time I right the wrongs of the past, and honoring my brother is long overdue. The cadet branch and main branch houses will be separate no longer when you and Neji join together as the next clan heads. The two of you will lead the Hyuga into a new era, as husband and wife."
Before Hiashi announced his decision, he sent messengers that morning to the three asking them to meet with him. It began with a surprising acknowledgment of Neji's skills, honorable actions, and an unexpected apology of sorts. The words "I'm sorry" never passed the older man's lips but it was there, in the subtext.
Turning his attention to the meek woman who kneeled quietly before him, with his hands clasped low behind his back, the clan head casually remarked, "Hinata, the monks tell me you've been working on a way to remove the cursed seal."
Her eyes grew big at the shock of hearing his words. She did not think anyone was aware of her late-night studies or motives. Seeing her father waiting for a response she stammered nervously in a timid voice, "H-hai, oto-sama." Her head bowed low, as if she expected to be scolded for concealing some illicit activity.
The Hyuga head hummed and nodded his head. "I will have a small team of dedicated scholars and fuinjutsu specialists aid in your research. When Hanabi turns eighteen, she will be old enough to lead a clan and marry. I expect you to have found a remedy by then."
Hinata cut her surprised gaze to her father briefly. Grateful for his assistance and approval, she bent at the waist, her forehead and palms pressed to the tatami mat as she accepted, "Hai… oto-sama."
"You are all free to leave. Speak to no one of this," he cautioned with a self-satisfied expression upon his countenance. They younger Hyugas stood and Hinata shuffled out of the room first.
Hanabi glared, quickly grabbing hold of Neji's hand to cut off his escape. She demanded with barely concealed panic, "Do something, Neji-niisan!"
Neji looked between Hanabi and Hiashi, words unable to form on his lips. Her grip loosened. In response, he bent his top half until his silky strands fell to either side of his face. "Arigato, Hiashi-sama. I will not fail you."
Hiashi grunted his approval, contented with his nephew's answer.
The youngest Hyuga gawked openly, feeling somehow betrayed.
Straightening his posture, Neji quickly excused himself to the dismay and outraged calls of Hanabi.
He scanned the halls for Hinata, but she was nowhere to be found.
He would make this right. Somehow, he would make it up to her.
(END FLASHBACK)
Present (Late Summer 5 AN) – Konoha
Caught up in his own thoughts, the male Hyuga heir traversed the woods between the Hyuga compound and the village waterfall with unintended, practiced stealth. The sun bathed his pristine white robes in an orange hue. His now unmarked forehead was proudly on display under his sloping widow's peak. Hinata not only succeeded in creating a counter seal, but she succeeded within two months of securing a team to support her.
Still unmarried to Hanabi, Neji was currently the only branch member to have experienced the honor so far. The rest of the cadet branch would experience the same freedom after Neji and Hanabi were officially united, as this was the original plan. His unique situation was Hinata's unexpected twentieth birthday present to him- an openly defiant act to her father and the elders.
It was the greatest gift anyone could have given him.
Sadly, it was one of the last moments he spent with her alone since they left the temple. Although he tried to talk to her, she continually refused to engage in exchanging more than simple pleasantries. She fortified her walls and distanced herself from him after receiving Hiashi's decree. For being the clan genius, he could not figure out why. He truly believed the moment they shared brought them closer, not further apart.
Hinata always had ready excuses for being busy, such as studying seals and taking on missions. When her life experienced more tragedy and she left for a year, it further drove a wedge between their relationship. She returned a different person.
Of course, it was not only Hinata. Hiashi also ensured Neji's free time was close to non-existent. He was constantly surrounded by people, especially in the beginning.
To assuage the Hyuga elders and stave off a civil war of sorts, Hiashi agreed to pull Neji off mission active-duty status to be fully immersed in clan studies and shadow Hiashi when he was not with tutors.
Most clan heirs spent their entire lives from birth properly preparing to take up the mantle of their fathers and mothers. They were taught everything from etiquette to interclan politics. From elocution, culture and arts to battle strategy, clan history and economics. Neji had less than six years to perfect everything.
He was aware of the possible coup d'état with which his appointment flirted. It took quite a lot out of him to play the political mind games required to stay afloat with more experienced predators.
Neji only had a few regrets in life. The first, was his failure to save Naruto in the war. The second, was misplacing his resentment of the main family for his lot in life onto Hinata. The final regret being his hesitation on that day.
He could have been honest with Hiashi. He could have made demands. He could have asked to marry Hinata instead. But there was a seedling of fear planted in the back of his mind that he was unaccustomed to dealing with. He was afraid that Hiashi would retract the offer after deciding he was a fool.
There were days when he was young that he used to think about how life would be different had Hizashi been born first. The changes Neji could make in the clan if he were the heir. Wondered whether or not his obsession with Hinata would have manifested itself as deeply in his bones and his every waking thought.
Neji couldn't deny that he wanted it. He wanted to be the clan head, but not for power or status or wealth. Being clan head meant he could be in control of his own destiny for once, and he would be able to give others that same opportunity.
The young Hyuga was smart enough to know which battles to pick and when to fight them. He had every intention of claiming Hinata still, but he needed to ensure all the game pieces were properly set before his strike and he was so close.
The gentle wind played with his smooth tresses, forcing him to brush away a few strands that clung to his lips and tangled in his long lashes. He could hear the water plunging from the falls, landing against slick stone and shallow basin.
Hearing the squeak of a door swinging on its rusty hinge, he turned towards the noise. The trek from the compound to the lake consisted of a wide trail winding down the slopes of the hilly forest. He currently stood on higher ground and could see over the washroom structures.
A familiar dark head of hair appeared from under the tiled rooftop of the women's restroom.
He was still for a moment longer than he planned. It had been months since he last saw her face.
Longing filled his chest. Finally, a chance to spend a few moments with just her.
"Hinata!" He called out, hoping she would be able to hear him past the rush of water at this distance.
She stopped in her tracks and peered over her shoulder with a confused stare.
He couldn't help the smile that creeped over his face, watching her bewilderment. Even when she tried, her expressive eyes always gave away her nature.
In the next moment, the feeling of protectiveness washed over him as he helplessly watched while some clumsy fool of a man walked right into his Hinata. When he saw the fool's arm wrapping around her body and his lips pushed up against hers, he felt the sting of possessiveness and a cloud of rage began to infiltrate his mind.
She felt faint.
Her head was too hot. If it were possible for steam to come out of her ears, she's sure it would have poured out and whistled like a boiling tea kettle.
She gazed into crimson irises that blinked back to onyx as she was gradually set on the ground and released.
There was an uncomfortable flip in her gut before instinct kicked in.
Sasuke sharply inhaled and started to explain in apology, "Look, I- OOF!"
He felt the air forcefully escape his lungs as if he were being pressed between two colliding objects.
Sasuke rubbed a palm over his solar plexus and coughed.
Gentle Fist my ass!
His watering eyes closed tightly. He was sure he would be feeling the ache of her blow and the discomfort in his back where he hit the trunk of a tree for a few days.
It had been a while since anyone caught him off guard.
He rose to a knee. A hand placed to the ground to steady himself. Adrenaline mechanically flooded his system and his pupils dilated as his eyes snapped open. His heart quickened. He inhaled deeply. The feeling was… intoxicating.
He laughed, a short, choked sound, while he steadily picked himself up.
The suddenly alert Uchiha focused on calming the rapid beating of his pulse and taking in oxygen when he heard his assailant yell in protest, "Never without my permission!"
He cocked a dark brow at her.
She was lowered in a defensive stance with a threatening palm held out towards him. Her opal-colored eyes made her face look harsher when her fury was directed at him.
He spoke with a mockingly exasperated tone. "This is ridiculous."
The blithe response, which lacked any compunction, served to further annoy the former heiress to his internal satisfaction. However, judging from the serious set of her mouth, he knew she wasn't pacified. So, he chose to indulge her in the only way he could muster. "Alright Princess. Next time, I will ask for your permission before I touch you."
Hinata's mouth hung open slightly. She was confused by his response, and it showed on her face.
Is he being sarcastic? What does he mean by 'next time'?
The group of young adults had gathered around during the awkward exchange. Koji and Jin were now quietly lingering behind their patriarch while a hard-faced Shino and a sniggering Kiba protectively shifted towards Hinata.
The two at odds stared at each other with assessing eyes. One light pair- bewildered. The other dark pair- devious. The young man smirked.
Abruptly, Neji landed in a graceful crouch by Hinata and stood to his full height, eyeing the newcomer suspiciously. It didn't take long for him to identify the threat before him. "I believe she was quite clear, Uchiha. Stay away from Lady Hinata." His voice was placid, but the idle warning was apparent. The lack of any honorific was intentional.
Sasuke scoffed with a roll of his eyes, lips parted and slightly upturned in amused disbelief.
Tensions were on the rise when a vociferous cry of concern shattered the taut atmosphere, "Sasuke!"
Sakura, who missed the folly, speedily crossed the distance to reach his side. Noticing his slightly disheveled appearance, her hands lit up and she switched into medical mode, searching his body for wounds to heal. "What happened?"
The man frowned and halted her wandering touch with large, gloved hands encircling tiny wrists. The pink haired medic paused to stare into obsidian eyes that made her heart skip a beat. "Stop." His glare sent her cheeks flushing a rosy hue.
"Come Hinata," Neji effortlessly redirected. He extended an arm out unconsciously towards the dark-haired female. "Your father would like a word."
He nodded his head at Tenten and Lee in both greeting and departure. Turning his back towards the group, he dropped his arm back to his side, started towards the path back to the compound and waited.
Tenten's hand paused in a reaching mid-air wave and all she could muster was a subdued 'Neji' whispered from her lips. They didn't see much of their old comrade since he became Hyuga heir, and she missed him.
Hinata was now half turned towards the male Hyuga and her mouth formed an apologetic smile. She quickly addressed the beleaguered group, "Enjoy your evening everyone."
Shino stared meaningfully at his female teammate through his dark lenses. Is everything okay?
Her smile widened at his concern and her eyes spoke to him. Everything is fine. Thank you, Shino.
She turned her smile to Kiba reassuringly before stealing a quick glance at the stoic Uchiha who was analyzing the interaction with fascinated curiosity. His hands no longer held Sakura captive, but the woman's emerald eyes were still busily absorbing the sight of him.
With a heavy sigh Hinata smoothed her features and stepped up to Neji's side.
The Hyuga male carefully evaluated her out of the corner of his eye. Noting nothing of concern on her indifferent features, he redirected his attention to their route – leading them away from the Konoha Falls. The farewells were uncomfortably silent.
The Hyuga cousins were similar in their quiet affectations, but there was an uneasy friction between them since their intimate encounter years ago. With Hinata's unexpected talent for elusiveness, he decided not to waste the opportunity that was presented to him.
"Your mission was quite long," he stated with a side glance at his speechless companion.
She hummed in acknowledgement. Her eyes were cast downward, dark indigo lashes lay highlighted against the backdrop of her light skin.
"I presume it was a success?" Though accustomed to her diffidence by now, he continued to nudge for a verbal response.
Her eyes flitted over to the tall man she grew up with and observed his profile. Noting how the darkness under his eyes from fatigue did nothing to detract from his attractiveness. She would always love and admire him, but she put up a barrier between them that was now a permanent fixture in her mind.
The distance was best for everyone, especially Neji.
When she gave him her body, she did not also submit her heart. That was still claimed by another.
She cherished this man dearly, and he deserved better than second place in love. Over time, she knew it would eat away at his pride and fester like a cancer in their relationship if she allowed their dalliance to continue.
He could find happiness without her; of this she was certain.
"It was," she responded in a short, even tone.
Undeterred, he tried a different approach. "Have you had a chance to see your mother's garden? I've asked Ena to tend to it while you are away. I figured you wouldn't mind Hanabi's old nursemaid in there since you seem close."
She stared up at him with appreciative astonishment.
That broke through her emotional wall. He could work with that.
"That was… very considerate of you, Neji. Thank you." Her voice grew softer as evanescent memories of her mother's gentle smiles and graceful movements in her element flitted across her mind's eye.
They called her Hikari, for the light. When she died, she took the light with her… along with Hiashi's heart.
Halfway into the woods, Neji stopped in his tracks and turned to the woman beside him. It was now or never. He swallowed and took a deep breath, watching her hesitantly halt her steps to face him.
"I miss you, Hinata," he confessed. His eyes bored into hers imploringly, gauging for her reaction.
Hurt.
His words hurt her.
She closed her lids, shuttering him off to the windows of her soul.
A sigh escaped her lips. It took a moment to form words. "I'm sorry, Neji." When her eyelids lifted again, all traces of emotion were gone. She shyly averted her gaze towards the base of a tree. "I've been really busy with missions and training."
As he listened to her clumsily attempt to dodge his aim, he clarified, "I miss us. I haven't given up on us."
Her breath hitched and her startled stare met with his scorching gaze. She wasn't expecting him to speak so plainly.
Neji reached out both hands to gently hold hers. His thumbs smoothing over her knuckles.
They both stayed in that position, gazing at the rare and tender touch for a moment, before Hinata broke the silence. She removed her hands from his and clasped them behind her back as she firmly spoke. "There is no us. You are promised to Hanabi."
He replied determinedly, "In time I will change that. Everything is almost in place."
His brows furrowed in question as he watched her eyes narrow slightly. "Don't you think Hanabi would rather be with someone else? I know I would."
The heir knew he was coming across as petulant, but why couldn't she just understand that he was doing what was best for everyone. If he explained it well enough, he could make her realize what he already knew.
That she should be the one to rule by his side.
She deserved it as much, if not more, than he did. More than Hanabi. He didn't have to be a prodigy to see this.
"Hanabi would rather lead the Hyuga with you, than lose her title entirely. It's her dream to lead our clan! I would rather that be the case as well," the woman abruptly responded. She needed to end this dangerous line of thinking. Seeing how she affected him in his wounded gaze, her demeanor softened. "Please Neji, leave it be."
He snickered in frustration at the turn of the conversation.
Always so stubborn.
After giving her a once over he smoothed his features and stood tall. "I understand Hinata. You do not wish for conflict or your sister's discomfort. I assure you, I will not broach the topic again until I am certain of an outcome you will find acceptable."
"Neji…" she attempted to reason with him.
He began to walk away but stopped to look back at her with silvery eyes. This time, his face was set with all the icy indifference for which the Hyuga clan leaders were known. "And Hinata," he paused until he was sure she was listening, "Keep your distance from the Uchiha. Hyuga have a reputation to uphold, and I'd hate to have him sully yours."
The Hyuga heir continued walking leaving Hinata to stare after him. This time, he did not wait for her to follow.
Cool air swept across the town quickly after the sun fell past the horizon. Outdoor stalls closed up shop and neon lights flickered on, welcoming a different crowd of patrons into the streets of downtown Konoha.
While the center of the village hummed with boisterously drunken crowds and strolling lovers along curated paths, neighborhoods and forested areas grew still. The only sounds were the chirping of cicadas.
In the dense forest near the Konoha falls, a hooded and cloaked figure stalked along the mossy ground. The solitary individual stopped near the edge of the lake. Onyx colored orbs scanned searchingly along the large trunks.
Dark eyes flashed red as they landed on the object they came for. A gloved hand reached towards the glinting needle and plucked it from its hold.
Sasuke inspected the deadly senbon before tucking it safely away and flickering out of the forest.
Thunderous rolling clouds swept across the sky quickly in curling grays and whites. Too quickly.
Strange.
The shadows of clouds swallowing the light of the sun shifted creepily along the dusty, rocky terrain and created prancing shapes along the ground.
They were moving backwards, she realized.
Surrounded by some forsaken arid desert, it felt unexpectedly cool.
The dirt cracked and flaked beneath her sandaled feet like thin sheets of clay. Steep cliffs reached towards the heavens on one side of her. Miles of nothing but endless sand and dry brush on the opposite. Not a single flowering cactus in sight.
Then she caught movement from the corner of her eye and saw him.
Sasuke Uchiha. Staggering forward in a dirty, tan, oversized poncho. A dark swath of cloth wrapped around his head messily over greasy black hair. A large chunk of his long bangs managed to escape the confines of the wrap and land on the bridge of his nose.
Virulent eyes with spinning tomoes peered through her. The anguish they revealed shot through her core in a physically debilitating way.
He was gasping heavily. His contorted features carried more emotion in them than she'd ever seen.
The dullness of the sky could not hide the sheen of his blade.
Bright crimson blood trickled slowly along the edge, dripping off the sharp tip of the single edged sword.
Then lightning ignited the world around them in a blinding crackle accompanied by booming thunder that ripped across the expanse and jostled her bones.
A soft rapping against the grain of her door penetrated through the veil of sleep.
Her eyes opened wide, and she inhaled sharply.
"Hinata-sama?" The soft voice on the other side inquired placatingly. "Are you awake?"
Hinata sat up slightly off kilter, taking in her surroundings. Her room looked the same as always. The pink tones filtering through gauzy drapes told her it was just after dawn.
A painful throb hammered at her temple forcing her to squeeze her eyes tightly, a hand reflexively moving to press against the ache.
Clearing her throat, she called out to the person knocking on her door, "You can come in, Ko-san."
Upon permission, Ko entered her room with a bow and stood nervously by the entrance. Her eyes lifted to him, and she moved her hand down to rest on the bed at her side. "I'm so sorry to disturb you Hinata-sama." Noticing the pained look on her face that she failed at hiding, he halted in his steps and arched both eyebrows. "Are you feeling well?"
She waved off both his apology and concern with a hand, a smile, and small shake of her head. "Please don't concern yourself. I'm fine."
Ko gave her a wide grin. As her former protector, she was like a younger sister or even daughter to him.
With hands placed on his hips, he cheerily professed, "It's nice having you around again. The place always feels a little lighter when you're home."
Hinata brightened at his words, a lazy grin stretching her cheeks. "Thank you, Ko-san. I hope Yuna is doing well. How far along is she now? Five months?"
"Seven actually," he stated while a hand nervously scratching his short umber-colored tufts. "The baby is coming so soon. I don't think I'm ready."
He let out an anxious chuckle and her twinkling laughter joined shortly after. He jumped slightly, as if startled. His hands started searching around his waist. "Ah! Here. I actually came here to deliver this to you."
Walking around to the side of her bed, he handed her a familiar looking scroll bearing the Hokage insignia. She accepted the scroll with both hands and gave a slight nod. "Domo arigato."
The Hyuga male then handed her a loose paper he'd been clutching since he entered. "And this was stuck to your door."
Hinata curiously picked up the letter and unfolded it to see her sister's messy scribbles, bringing a smile to her face.
...
Onee-chan,
Thank you for whatever you did! It worked! I'm heading out early to training ground 15 to meet my new team and Konohamaru-sensei. Wish me luck!
Hanabi
...
Ko was staring at Hinata expectantly when she turned her attention back to him and quietly shared, "Hanabi-chan."
"Ah… so tell me, how did your meeting go with your father?" He prodded the younger Hyuga. Under most circumstances, he would not pry so much into another's business. However, with Hanabi and Neji's succession, he was beginning to worry about Hinata's future. As her oldest protector and guardian, he could not help but want the best for the Hyuga girl who always felt more than she should.
"It went surprisingly well," she admitted breathily. A hand rose to her face as she tapped a finger to her lips and looked up in thought. "He berated me, of course, for injecting myself into politics and for involving the Hokage. Reminded me that I am an ex-heiress and to act accordingly. Told me that I would be held personally responsible if anything happened to Hanabi." She casually listed the grievances according to the clan head. She then paused and spoke with awe in the tone of her voice. "And then he said my mother would be proud."
Ko crossed his arms and grinned. Hiashi's reaction was much better than expected and he was glad for it. "Good." For Hinata's sake. "Really great. Well, I should let you get dressed and not keep you any longer. I'm pretty sure that scroll is important."
The lean male backed out towards the door with a bend at the waist. Before he exited, he glanced at the delicate looking girl, now woman, before him. "It is really good having you back." Then he slipped out and shuffled back to the gate where he was standing watch that morning.
Hinata closed her eyes and took a breath for balance.
Unraveling the scroll, she quickly scanned the document. Her eyes widened. She had half an hour to be at Kakashi's office. She was out of her bed in a flash.
"Take a few days off, he says," Kiba irately muttered to himself taking hurried strides towards the Hokage Tower while zipping up his green flak vest fully. "You can start your old position on Monday, he says. Pffft. Yeah right."
"Kiba!" A distinctly gentle and feminine voice called out.
Kiba stopped in his tracks just outside the red mansion to see Hinata rushing through the outer gate that separated the rest of Konoha from the circular set of buildings. She weaved around a few shinobi in her haste to catch up to him. His demeanor changed in an instant.
"Hey Hinata! You're up early," he observed as he smiled at the shorter ninja. The morning sun was just beginning its early ascent in the hazy sky. The dewy air was still cool from the night. His hands moved to his hips.
The woman groaned and buried her face into a palm. "Don't remind me." She wiggled the Hokage's scroll in his face with her other hand.
"You too huh?" He displayed his scroll.
Shino appeared from inside the structure, holding the door open for his comrades. "It's about time you two showed up." His spectacled eyes entreated them to follow.
"Thank you, Shino!" Hinata thanked their punctual friend with a bright smile and walked into the central tower.
"Well good morning to you too Sunshine," Kiba derisively greeted as he passed the young man at the entrance and followed Hinata.
Shino made no effort to reply to Kiba's grumpy remark and instead walked after them towards the steps leading up to the next flight where the Hokage's office was situated.
The door to Kakashi's office was open. No one stood guard duty.
The former members of Team Eight gingerly approached the wooden door and peeked inside to see a spiky haired, lazy ninja walking around the desk, shuffling a stack of papers.
Kiba was the first to break the silence. "Hey…" he gave a lopsided grin and approached the advisor who looked up at the trio. "Shikamaru!"
"Oy, Kiba!" The Nara head greeted with a smile and dipped his head towards the other two. "Shino, Hinata… right on time. Glad you could all make it."
"Good morning!" Hinata cheerily greeted. Curious about the reason for a meeting on short notice, she asked, "Did you want all three of us here together?"
"Actually yes, but we should wait for Kakashi to arrive and explain further."
Shino observantly remarked, "He's late."
A soft chuckle escaped the ponytailed Nara's lips and he wistfully noted, "Probably got lost on the path of life again. He'll be here."
The four stood silently for a moment. Shikamaru hovered off center behind the desk. His fingers lightly rapping against the surface as he observed old Team Eight with quietly thoughtful eyes.
Hinata, standing in the center of the formation they naturally created, fisted her hands in an effort to not fidget. Her bottom lip, however, took the beating instead as she chewed on it anxiously. Her eyes lifted to look at the genius who was staring back with his brows arched in question.
She began, "Shikamaru, when do you think I can visit with Mirai? I know I just returned, and I hear she's at the academy now, but it's been a while and I'd really like to see her."
His eyes lowered and head nodded in understanding. "During the week will be difficult…" he thought aloud. He scratched his head as he mentally ran through their schedule before a light switched on in his dark orbs. "In two weeks, on the second morning of Obon, Ino, and I wanted to take our moms to pay respects to my dad and Inoichi. If you could take Mirai for a couple hours, that would be helpful. I know you probably have plans too, so if-"
"I'll do it!" She quickly interrupted to accept. He appeared startled at the outburst then softened with a grateful smile as she continued, "Just send a messenger. Let me know when and where and I'll be there."
The sharp advisor tipped his head casually. "Thank you, Hinata. I'll be in touch."
In the next instant, Kakashi appeared in a cloud of smoke in the chair behind his desk. With two fingers extended at his brow he announced, "Yo!"
Shikamaru suppressed a groan at the late arrival.
The other three dropped to a knee with one fist kissing the floor, heads bowed and greeted in unison, "Reporting for duty, Lord Hokage."
"Relax," Kakashi directed through a masked smile. The trained ANBU, dressed casually, stood from their lowered positions in attentive stances.
Without further ceremony the world-renowned copy ninja got straight to the point. "As you're all aware, Sasuke Uchiha, my former student, is back in Konoha." The team confirmed his words with a silent gesture of their heads. "Although he has paid his sentence and is technically considered reformed, his disappearance and lack of communication with Konoha has given the council a cause for concern. After some deliberation, we reached an agreement of sorts. He and his group of Uchihas are to be actively monitored for the foreseeable future. At least until the council can validate his motives. That's where you three come in."
The masked Hokage smiled at his most trusted ANBU team, his visible eye landed on the Inuzuka. "Kiba, since this is an in-village mission, you're back on the team for now."
Kakashi pulled open a desk drawer, retrieving a porcelain mask with the face of a dog. He tossed the object at the former owner who easily caught it. Kiba's eyes studied the ANBU face covering that was like a second skin to him and delicately traced over the muzzle with a finger.
"Thank you, Lord Hokage," Kiba whispered deferentially. Hinata smiled at their boomerang comrade and Shino tilted his head in approval. A wide grin spread across the Inuzuka's face that lingered as he returned his attention to Kakashi and tucked the mask away.
"Just Kakashi please," the white-haired ninja reminded with a smile. Then he turned to his advisor and conveyed his request with nod. "Shikamaru?"
Shikamaru picked up where the village leader left off. "ROOT ANBU under Sai's guidance have been tailing the Uchihas since they arrived yesterday. However, the council wants to assure the civilian population that Sasuke and his group are under control with a more hands on approach. Sai's team will continue to observe from a distance and provide backup, should you need it."
The Nara walked around the desk and handed out mission scrolls as he spoke before strolling back to Kakashi's side. "You are to announce your presence at the Uchiha temporary residence at noon today in ANBU uniform. Tenzo's squad will relieve you at midnight. This will be your daily routine until further notice."
Dark eyes watched as the group of shinobi unraveled their scrolls. Hinata's eyes widened slightly as she glimpsed at the image of her objective but said nothing. Instead, she skimmed through the mission detail while the conversation went on.
"Ugh. Why am I assigned to Koji? I can't stand that ass hat," Kiba complained.
"Based on the intel we gathered from the competition yesterday, we all felt your team was up to the challenge and matched your abilities accordingly. Without Akamaru, your skill level is at half-mast." Kiba deflated a little at the truth behind the scathing remark, but a roguish grin appeared almost as quickly as he perked up and confidently announced, "Heh. I don't need to be at full power to handle that idiot!"
The spiky ponytailed male bit back his less polite comments and the urge to roll his eyes. "Yes, Kiba. That's exactly why you're assigned to Koji. From what we gather, his strengths are taijutsu, speed and weapons. I think you can handle that."
Staring at Shino he offered informatively, "Jin uses some sort of dark chakra fog to sneak up on his opponents. We aren't entirely sure how much manipulation he has over it, but with your ability to see in the dark and your beetle's talents at chakra siphoning and genjutsu resistance make you an ideal counter to his abilities."
Shino merely tipped his head once in response.
His focus shifted to Hinata who appeared uncomfortable but met the Nara's stare with curious determination. "Hinata, you have the most difficult task. The point of the mission is to keep an eye on the Uchihas. Sasuke specifically. Your byakugan and sensory abilities will be essential here."
Kiba snickered, "Heh. She also wasn't one of his dumb fangirls."
Hinata looked at her friend with wide reprimanding eyes.
The edge of Shino's mouth tilted up a degree.
Shikamaru pinched the bridge of his nose tiredly. "You're right Kiba. Although unimportant to relay, emotional attachments to the Uchiha were also considered in forming appropriate teams."
The copy ninja stood from his sitting position and leaned forward on his arms with his hands supported on the desk. "Sasuke says he is here to rebuild his clan and bring honor back to the Uchiha. Remember, observe and report back to me every morning before your shift. Unless absolutely necessary, do not interfere, do not engage- but make your presence known. We need civilians to see you together."
"Yes, Lord Hokage," the trio acknowledged. Chakra enveloped their fingers as they each set fire to their secret mission scrolls.
Hinata watched, entranced by the slowly licking flames devouring the bottom of the parchment. Sasuke's black and white visage stared back icily at her from the vanishing scroll. She suddenly felt an uneasy hollowness in her chest. Somehow, she knew that this mission would alter the course of her life permanently. Things were going to change, and there was no way of knowing if it would be good or bad.
The violet blaze consumed his image. Before it could burn her too, she let go.
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A/N: That wraps up Season 1! Before I dissect the chapter, I've been thinking a bit about next Season timing. Did you all like the weekly updates with a lot of content? Would you prefer to have 2 shorter seasons? Or would you rather read chapters as they are ready without having a specific timeline in between? The latter option means you wouldn't have to wait 6 months to a year for next season but you also won't know when the next chapter is coming and in all likelihood will be at least a month in between. Leave a comment or PM me directly to let me know what your preference is. I'll tally up the responses and leave an update on my profile page by end of month. 😊
Behind The Curtains: Part 1- Neji and Hanabi's engagement. A note about incest. While I personally would not ever consider dating a cousin, I understand that different cultures have different stances on this. For example, in China, Russia and North Korea, marrying your cousin is not only frowned upon, but illegal. However, in Japan, England, France, Brazil and many Islamic countries it is not considered strange and is completely legal to marry your cousin. Albert Einstein, Queen Elizabeth II and Cleopatra all married into their family. In human history, it was common practice for royalty and nobles to marry within the family to keep the seat of power within the family. The world of Naruto is set in Japan in a time of feudalism, with Daimyo's and noble clans in power. Mikoto and Fugaku Uchiha were cousins. Hinata's parents both had byakugan making them also related. It is easy to glean from this information that romantic relationships within families/clans are considered normal in Narutoverse. So, while the idea of Neji with Hinata or Hanabi may be considered unsavory by many in today's modern society, I do not think the concept is farfetched.
Part 2- Wrapping up the season. I'm so excited about getting to this point. Many readers have picked up on Sasuke's apparent interest in Hinata. Last chapter gave you some history from Neji's perspective. I'm excited to kick off next 'season' with more background, from Sasuke's perspective. Have I mentioned there are a lot of flashbacks in this story? After that, Team 8 is in for some Uchiha babysitting 'fun.' Haha!
I do have this entire story plotted out by chapter already, so now it's just about putting pen to paper. Thank you to everyone who's stuck it through with me up to this point and especially you brave souls who've left me motivating comments. I'm sure you've read before that us authors feed off of reviews to keep us going. While I would never want to pressure anyone to comment because it is a very personal decision, I would encourage you to engage. It really does help the writing process, so in a very real way, you are contributing to the story and can influence the direction.
Thank you Amritasingh1608, Arysh, Bexbluedragon76, buon I qua, Cassiopeia013, DeadBunny976, hybridsaiyanwarrior, maysorianoup, reimea02, TheNameTakenIsMe, xpastelberriesx, and XxArcAngelxX for your new Favorites and Follows! It means a lot to me that you find this story worthy of your votes. *sniffs loudly*
And thank you to my latest Reviewers! Reading comments is both the scariest and most rewarding part of sharing my work with you. I really appreciate the time and effort you take to let me know your thoughts.
LB Cat: One of my most consistent reviewers. :) Thank you. It makes me so happy that this chapter made you feel something. You are so understanding of everyone's situation, even Hiashi's. You are right though. In the end he wants Hinata to get better and for people to stop judging her. He goes about it the wrong way, in my opinion, but he really does care for her.
Rei: You're back too! Yay. I know, I'm still hoping that Neji is resurrected someday in the anime/manga. TT He didn't have to die. Your kind words are so supportive and helped me feel better about publishing this controversial chapter. I agree- Sasuke does not like to share. LoL!
Guest 1: Thank you for leaving your honest thoughts. I agree, Hinata does not love Neji in a romantic sense and she is definitely feeling some guilt. As far as letting Neji take advantage of her, I tend to think about this a little differently. She is also using Neji as a form of escapism, so I guess, in a way they are taking advantage of each other? It is easy from an outsider's perspective to see her actions as being foolish, and you wouldn't be wrong. Hinata is in a very deep depression during this time, and it is very common for depressed people to make decisions that are self-destructive. She is also getting a taste of rebellion as this is the first time she ever stood up to her father. While this is by no means a smart decision, they are both acting very emotionally and in the moment. I hope you continue to give this story a shot even if Hinata is showing some character flaws. :)
Guest 2: The timing of your review couldn't be better. Honestly, I was feeling a little down about the lack of momentum in my story over the past week and especially the day you commented. This fic is not very popular and I was considering putting this on hiatus or just not publishing anymore. Your sweet words helped me get over that hurdle and decide to keep writing. After all, I share my story because there are people like you that let me know that you enjoy reading it. Thank you. :)
Bexbluedragon76: It is always great hearing from you! You've picked up on everything I wanted to convey and I couldn't be happier. Hinata was extremely vulnerable immediately after Naruto's death and her father and clan did not help to make anything better. As you read in this chapter, your guesses were pretty spot on. She does pretty much avoid everyone in the Hyuga except Hanabi. She uses her ANBU status as an excuse, and an actual reason of course, to keep away. I hope you liked this chapter!
Sommernacht: To one of my favorite SasuHina fanfic authors. :) I LOVE your story "Looking at the Ghost of Me." It is definitely one of the best ongoing stories out there right now, in my humble opinion. I think we share some common readers too! You are so talented, and I appreciate all the time you've spared to read and review every chapter of this fic in a binge session. LoL. Also, thank you for answering MY reviews and engaging with me outside of both of our stories. Homies. ^^
That is all for now folks. Stay safe, be kind and I'll see you next season (remember to Follow so you get the update when Chapter 8 is published)!
LEA