Disclaimer: Refer to chapter 1
The Hirashi ChroniclesChapter 2: An interview with the Hokage
"Iruka, how is he?" The wizened old man questioned in his characteristically raspy voice. More wrinkles appeared on the already over-creased forehead.
"He's living with the Tomiya family at present. They were close friends of Sai and Tasuni. He qualifies as an A grade ninja in my class, amongst, if not, the best." Iruka explained.
"He doesn't seem to be making many friends, though." He said thoughtfully.
"I see..." The Third Hokage's eyebrows narrowed slightly and he tilted his head slightly forward to meet Iruka's eyes. "I understand why you feel that Naruto is a larger priority right now. However, you must understand, Iruka, that Hirashi is just as, if not more important than Naruto even if he doesn't carry a demon spirit within him. "
"His entire clan sacrificed itself to slow down the Kryubi and enable the Fourth to save our dear village." The Third's eyes glazed over as he recalled the incident. "We must recognize that sacrifice!" He paused for the statement to sink in.
"The other survivor, the girl. She has been sent away?" The Third asked.
"Yes, Hokage-sama. To her closest relations in the village of Mists. But..." Iruka stammered.
"No, buts, Iruka. You must not ignore your other duties just to personally oversee Naruto. Do you realize that both of his bloodlines may manifest in him? Do you understand the possible ramifications if that is possible?" The Third's voice rose sharply, as did his regal bearing.
"I am truly sorry, Hokage-sama. I will watch him closely to see any changes." Iruka bowed low and readied to leave.
"One more thing, Iruka." The Third Hokage sat back down on his ornamental chair. "I wish to interview him tomorrow."
"Yes, Hokage-sama. I will inform him to meet you here at noon." Iruka bowed once again and leapt away.
Iruka found Hirashi studying a few ninja scrolls in a clearing not far from the village of Konoha. For once, he paused and observed the boy he was responsible for. Hirashi was of medium build and boasted a very well toned body underneath his skintight ninja outfit. His hair was mostly black, but there were also streaks of dark blue, probably inherited by his mother. His face was nothing short of handsome with finely chiseled features, a well-rounded, yet not chubby chin and a beautiful aquiline nose. The silver left eye and the blood pigmented right eye only complemented these fine traits.
However, it was these eyes, which shunned him from the rest of his peers. Only the Hyuuga clan was blessed with the Byakugan and none only had one of it. Hirashi was an anomaly and that made him as dangerous as the Kryubi.
Iruka started as he felt the cold sharp edge of a kunai dagger pressed against his neck. Another razor-sharp point nudged against his lower back. Was this the start of an enemy invasion?
"Surprise, surprise, Iruka-sensei." The kunai daggers swiftly returned to their holsters as Hirashi bowed in mock obeisance to his teacher. "I didn't think that you'd fall for such a simple illusion." He laughed.
Iruka sighed as he heard the magical laughter of youth. I must be getting old to be outsmarted by my own students.
"So what did you want me for, sensei?" Hirashi's expression turned serious as he awaited further instructions.
Iruka saw no point in concealing his intent. "You have an interview with the Hokage tomorrow at noon. " He paused, about to say, "Don't be late.", when he realized its redundancy. No one in his right mind would be late for an interview with the Hokage.
"You're late." The Third Hokage reprimanded.
"I had trouble finding directions." Hirashi said blandly. "Everyone I asked seemed to think I was an assassin from another village coming to murder you."
The Third's eyebrows raised noticeably in disbelief. "It's the largest building in the entire village!" I didn't think he would be that stupid.
"Well, I didn't think the Hokage would work at such an obvious location." The young ninja shrugged indifferently.
The Third smiled. Now I know what game he's playing. Let's see what he thinks of my next move. "So...how's the weather recently?"
He's caught on to me, but I shall play on. "Oh, it's been hot for the past few days. Many cute girls in bikinis are going to the beach. None of them seem to catch my eye though." Hirashi gestured vaguely at his left eye.
"You play the game well, young Hirashi." The Third Hokage conceded his defeat.
"Game? What game?" The feigned ignorance fooled neither of them.
"Let's cut to the chase, shall we? I am interested to know if you have any special..." The Hokage paused to think of a suitable word. "...abilities, perhaps."
"No. Not that I know of." Hirashi was direct and to the point. He ran his right hand unconsciously through his blue-streaked black hair.
"You will tell me if you do." The Third's stern comment was met with a cool gaze.
"That's if its to my advantage." Hirashi replied matter-of-factly. "I fight for myself." Without waiting for a dismissal, he left.
I foresee many future problems, the Third mused.