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Chapter VI: THe War with The Akatsuki

Part II: A New Era for the Hyuga

Part I: Beginnings of a New Era

Hokage Compound, Konohagakure

Naruto waited at the entrance to the new Hokage Compound in quite the sullen mood. The encounter with his blood cousin had caused him to fall in a deep depression. Apparently, Lady Tsunade had requested his presence. He wasn't sure why. All he knew was that she considered the matter urgent. He lightly knocked on the door with a closed fist.

Tsunade's usual irritating voice answered. "Who is it?"

Naruto stiffened for a moment. The Fifth Hokage sounded as if she had been drinking sake again. He muttered to himself.

Great. This is going to be a pleasant conversation. Grandma Tsunade is always in a bitchy mood when she is drunk. "It's me Naruto!" He then heard a sudden change in her tone.

She sounded cheerful and almost elated. "Coming!" The door soon opened.

Tsunade then stood there beaming at him. "Well if it isn't my precious brat! I've been so worried!" She then hugged him pressing his face into her massive chest.

Naruto blinked. The depressive state he was in broke for a moment. In all the time he'd known the Fifth Hokage, she'd never been the overly affectionate type.

Tsunade's usual way of showing she truly cared for someone was usually by teasing them with a joke or a remark. "What's going on? You never hug me."

Tsunade then held on to him tightly while smiling to herself and sighing happily. Tears ran down her eyes. The woman was trying to make up for not really showing her adopted grandson he mattered to her. "It's rather simple Naruto. I've spent too much time busying myself with my duties and sake and not enough time with the ones who matter to me. I want to rectify that…starting with you. I'm rather curious about your life."

Naruto nodded confused. "Okay."

Tsunade then took him by the hands. "Please come in. I'd rather discuss this in private."

Naruto glanced at her confused. "Alright then."

He then let the Fifth Hokage lead him in the room. She then closed the door and formed a ram sign. "Justu of Silence." She then turned back to him and smiled. "Have to take precautions. Nowhere is safe these days."

Naruto just crossed him arms nodding while nursing his headache. "True enough."

Tsunade then turned to the side wall. "Hinata! Kushina! You two can come out now!"

The side panel opened and out walked both Kushina and Hinata.

Naruto blinked at her when he saw her. "Hinata! "

The lavender-haired girl giggled when she saw his flabbergasted expression. "Hello beloved. It's nice to see you out of your compound again. I've been getting worried. You haven't been coming by lately."

Kushina just pressed her hands to her chest, smirked and teasingly added. "Wow you actually put some clothes on for once and combed your hair like I asked you to this morning."

Naruto then glanced up between all of them. "Okay. What is going on here?"

Tsunade smiled sadly. "Your mother has been telling me you've become more withdrawn lately since your encounter with…Karin. She's worried about you sweetie. She asked Hinata and I to speak to you."

Naruto muttered to himself and turned his face away from either of them. "Of course she has."

Kushina just sighed in frustration. Oh Naruto. My precious baby. My heart. I hate seeing you like this. It breaks my heart. You can try and put on a brave face but I know you. You are stubborn like me yet sensitive like your father. You are strong but you can't just hide your emotions like this. It will kill you. Please don't shut us out. "Naruto…Please just talk to me. You look like you haven't slept in days baby. You've barely even ate or slept. I'm concerned."

Naruto just shook his head. "You can't help me on this one Mom. None of you can."

Hinata shook her head and turned his face towards hers. "Beloved….I promise you that even if we don't have all the answers…we want to help anyway. You matter to me. I love you. I love you more than life itself. It pains me to see you hurting like this."

Tsunade just nodded with pained eyes and put a hand on his shoulder to comfort him. "Naruto…sweetie. You are just like your father. Strong. Prideful. Kind. Those are good qualities in a man. Even better in a Shinobi."

She then shook her head sighing ruefully. "A Shinobi without a conscience or a sense of compassion is nothing more than trash. He isn't worth the headband he wears or the village he swears himself to. That's what makes you different from the Uchiha. He chases power and doesn't care who he puts in harms way."

She couldn't even say Sasuke's name without being angry. He had harmed her beloved student.

That was unforgivable in her eyes. "That also means that your heart is sensitive to the pain of others. Compassion can be a great ally to us as much as it can hinder us." She then made him look her in the eyes so he could see the inviting warmth in them. She smiled up at him sadly. "My lover Dan was the same way. He often tried but he was never a man able to hide his pain well. Let go. Please."

Naruto shook his head. "I…can't. If I allow myself to let go…I'll never be able to forgive myself. I have to show strength. I have to show the damned Akatsuki I won't break. I'll look weak."

Kushina then shook her head.

She then placed her hand on his chest and smiled. "Naruto…Your sense of compassion is not weakness."

She then held his face in her hands and smiled warmly. "Your compassion is your greatest attribute. It is what drives people to care for you and see the human behind the demon."

She then gestured to Hinata. "It is what drove Hinata into your arms in the first place. "

Hinata just nodded blushing."Your mother is right beloved. I saw beyond the demon and saw the person you truly were. I wouldn't be standing here otherwise."

Tsunade smiled at Naruto and affectionately ruffled his hair, smiling at him. "Same goes for me sweetie. I was once just an uncaring drunk who would gamble her life on a bet if it made a Ryo. You turned me into a believer when you got back up from my finger flick. I took one look at you and I knew you were special. You even protected me from Kabuto. You saved my life that day. I wouldn't have had it in me to take up the reins of Hokage if I hadn't seen your example. You inspired me. That's what makes you special to my heart. You represent the hope of the entire village to me. That's why I call you my precious brat."

Naruto let out a sigh. He couldn't hold in his tears any longer and collapsed onto his mother's shoulder sobbing.

The redhead felt herself finally relax, smiled through her tears, and wrapped her arms around him patting his back. "Shh. Okay. I've got you baby. I'm not letting go. Let it all out. Mommy's here."

Naruto tried to speak. "I-I'm scared. I don't want them to take me away. I saw what they did to Gaara when they captured him. He almost died all alone. I-I want to stay here. This is home to me. I-I don't want to leave! I dont want to die!"

Kushina spoke soothingly. "I'm never going to let that happen baby. I'd rather die than let those bastards have you understand me?" She then kissed him on both cheeks. "You are my light. My baby boy. My precious baby boy. I moved heaven and earth to come back to you and I'll be damned if I lose you to that bastard Obito Uchiha!" She then pulled him into another hug and sighed. "You just can't scare me like that okay? I was so worried about you. I was worried you were going to hurt yourself. Please just…promise me."

Naruto spoke through a stutter. "I-I promise! I-I'm sorry! I-I'm so sorry! Please forgive me!"

Kushina smiled. " It's okay. Your apology is accepted sweetie. I love you so much."

Naruto nodded, a bit shaken up, "I-I love you too."

Kushina chuckled. He's just like me alright. Rash. Stubborn. Emotional as hell. My ancestor Mito would be proud. She then turned to Hinata. He needs a bit of fun right now. "Hinata."

Hinata smiled at her mother-in-law. "Yes Kushina?"

"I want you to take my boy out for a good time. Go into the village center. I'm sure you know all the good spots."

Hinata let out a playful giggle. "I sure do!" She then took Naruto's face and turned it to meet hers. "Come beloved! I know a great dango place!"

Naruto blinked at her. "What about the villagers? What if they try to kill me?"

Hinata then smiled warmly at him caressing his face with a hand. "Oh my sweet…If that happens…then I guess I'll have to add a few more bodies to my kill count." She added that last sentence with a hint of a threatening tone in her cheery voice. She then pulled him away from his mother and took his arm in hers, wrapping herself around it humming to herself contently.

The two then began to walk away towards the village center.

Tsunade chuckled with a grin. "I never imagined I'd ever see Hinata as the protective and fierce type. It used to be that Naruto was the outgoing one out of the two of them. She really has changed. I see why you approve of her Kushina. She seems quiet and meek but fierce and deadly when it comes to protecting those dear to her."

Kushina nodded, smiling. " Yup. Just like me."

Village Center, Konohagakure

Naruto and Hinata walked together.

Naruto shivered a bit in this shinobi gear. He could sense everyone's eyes on them. People are looking.

Hinata then looked up at him. "What's wrong my love? I can feel you shaking."

Naruto stuttered out. "P-People are staring."

Hinata then took a good look around them. Sure enough…People were staring at them…or rather at him. Some of them were armed with whatever they had their hands on. It seems she wasn't the only one as Neji appeared beside her. Her eyes widened. "Neji! Where did you come from?"

Neji smirked at her. "I was walking around when I noticed what was going on."

He then turned to Naruto smiling. "Don't worry cousin-in-law. The Hyuuga family protects its own."

Naruto gasped. "Neji…"

Hinata and Neji then turned to face the growing crowd and activated their Byakugan.

Hinata then spoke in a loud tone of voice. "Alright! Listen up you hypocritical pieces of filth…I am Hinata Hyūga, heiress of the Hyūga Clan!" She then turned to Naruto and kissed him on the cheek. "Naruto Uzumaki is my intended! My betrothed! My love! He is now an official member of the Hyūga Clan by right of my hand! You threaten him and you risk the wrath of the Hyūga!" She then drew a kunai.

Neji glared at them as well. "Same goes for me."

The attempt by the two Hyūga to threaten the populace into submission was successful. The Hyūga family was one of the richest and most powerful shinobi families in Konohagakure. Nobody wanted to risk their wrath.

The group then started to break up.

Hinata smirked at the cousin she considered a brother. "Thanks for the backup Neji. I could have handled them myself but the assistance is appreciated."

Neji nodded. "Of course dear sister." He then turned to Naruto. "Are you alright Naruto? You look as if you are surprised by our actions."

Naruto turned to Hinata and then to Neji.

He was in shock. The sudden presence of Hinata's and Neji's chakra alone scared him.

A small part of him was really glad he hadn't taken Karin's offer. Watching Hinata suddenly turn cold and calculating was frightening. He was used to her warm demeanor. He was suddenly stopped in his thoughts by said lavender-haired kunoichi when she turned his face to meet hers. Her lavender eyes stared into his sky blue ones. "Naruto…you look frightened…what's wrong?" Please don't tell me I scared him. I just wanted to keep him safe.

Naruto then broke the silence by clearing his throat and speaking in a stutter, blushing, "Y-You both defended me? Why?"

Hinata's eyes widened. He isn't scared. He's embarrassed. He's surprised I stepped up to defend him. I wonder why.

Naruto sighed. "I..I'm sorry. Please don't think bad of me. I'm just used to being a punching bag. I'm used to just taking my beating and walking away."

Hinata sighed and hugged him. "It's okay. I understand." She then glared at the crowd still dissipating. These damned villagers…the damage they have wrought on my beloved…I hate seeing him like this. I have to comfort him. "Naruto…I would never blame you. If there is anyone that needs to apologize for anything…it is them. They have treated you like a monster for so long they have scared you into thinking the hatred against you is your fault." She then kissed him and pulled away. "Listen to me beloved. You are a Konoha shinobi and the man I love. Don't you dare let those cowards define you for who you are. Don't let them in your head. They can call you the demon all they want but they don't know the real you. The man I've chosen to love and adore for eternity. I know its hard but I want you to remember that okay? You are worthy of respect and love just like everyone else."

Naruto just nodded. "I'll try my hardest."

She then took an arm in his giggling. "That's all i ask. Now come on. Let's find something to eat! I'm starving! You want Ichiraku's? I'll pay!"

Naruto managed to smile. "I-I'd like that." Hinata felt a sense of relief overcome her. He smiled. That's a start. "Come along then." Neji chuckled. "Count me in as well."

Ichiraku's Ramen Shop, Konohagakure

Teuchi grinned as he saw Naruto. "Well if it isn't my favorite customer! Ayame and I have missed seeing you come by! What's been keeping you?"

Naruto rubbed the back of his head. "I've been dealing with family matters."

The old shopkeeper nodded. He then noticed Hinata, who had herself wrapped around the Jinchuuriki's left arm. "L..Lady H..Hinata?"

Hinata giggled and smiled at the man's shocked expression. "Hello Teuchi. I hope business goes well."

Ayame had come out of her room, glancing at the pair in shock. "Naruto! Hinata!"

Teuchi then glanced between Naruto and Hinata. "You two are finally…"

Naruto chuckled, shaking his head. "Yep."

Teuchi chuckled with crossed arms. "Well it's about damn time! I was wondering when you were going to notice her!"

Hinata blinked at the ramen shopkeeper. "You noticed as well?"

Teuchi grinned at her. "You weren't as conspicuous as you thought, young lady. I knew you liked Naruto from the very beginning. The little glances you would send his way when he ate here alone were enough proof of that.

Hinata, in a rare show of her old self, clung onto Naruto for support with a blushing nod. "I see…"

Teuchi then turned to Neji. "I don't remember you though young man."

Neji just bowed. "Neji Hyūga at your service sir! I'm.." He then thought if he should potentially jeopardize Hinata's standing in the Family by stating the true nature of their bond. He decided to go for it. "I'm…Hinata's cousin by blood."

Hinata then put a hand on his shoulder smiling. Teuchi grinned. "I take it from the fact that you are standing near Naruto and not dead…that he trusts you."

Naruto then playfully grinned at the older man wrapping an arm around Neji's shoulder. "Yeah. Neji's cool. A bit of a perfectionist when it comes to his training. That's why we get along." He then turned to Neji and smirked with a nod.

Neji returned the gesture and turned to Teuchi. "Naruto taught me that I didn't need to define myself by my family's reputation. That I could become my own man and take my destiny into my own hands."

Teuchi chuckled. "He tends to have that effect on people."

Ayame then rushed Naruto and hugged him. He was about as tall as her now so he came up to her shoulder. "Naruto!" Her tone suddenly turned stern. "Where have you been? You haven't come by in ages!" She then broke the hug and glared at him. "You know better than to not check up with your big sister! I haven't seen you in two years! I want answers!"

Naruto chuckled heartily. "Heh. You haven't changed at all Ayame!"

Hinata studded the young brunette for a moment with a studious look in her eyes. Hmm. Well she called herself his 'big sister' so there's no need to see her as a potential love rival. I'll still keep an eye out though. No doubt as he becomes more well known for his actual exploits protecting the village…I'm going to have my hands full pushing away fangirls.

The lavender-eyed kunoichi then smiled to herself. Not that any of those dumb bimbos could steal him from me. He is all mine now. I'm not giving him up.

Ichiraku's Ramen Shop

A few minutes later

Ayame gasped in shock with widened eyes. "So she proposed to you?"

Naruto gave his adopted sister a foxy grin. "Yup. Scared the hell out of me too. I wasn't expecting it in the least." He then wrapped an arm around Hinata.

She responded in kind by pulling herself into him and wrapping her arms around his neck.

"I was tired of hiding it. Sakura was actually the one who gave me the courage to admit my feelings. He had offered to spar with me. I came to his compound days later with a different offer. A...first date with you will."

Ayame let out a squeal of happiness. "Oh! That is so romantic! I'm so happy for you both! I really am!"

Naruto gave her a nod, smirking. "Thanks big sis."

Hinata nodded at the brunette. "Indeed. Naruto and I appreciate your support Ayame. It truly means the world to us."

Soon the three of them were presented with three plates of ramen.

Teuchi grinned at them as he handed one to each one of them. "Eat up! It's on the house!"

Naruto grinned back at the older man. He then began devouring the meal as if it were his last. "Thanks old man!"

Hinata and Neji shared a look of worry. It seems my beloved Naruto is a little less civilized than I realized. No doubt the lack of parenting and strong familial support played a part in that.

She then glanced at her beloved with a smirk on her face. Oh well. I'll be sure to teach him the proper manners in time. No intended of mine is going to be eating like a commoner! My pride as a Hyuuga and love for my betrothed won't allow it! She then smiled at Teuchi and Ayame. "Thank you both for the wonderful meal! I will endeavor to enjoy it!" She then began eating, albeit at a far more daintier approach than her boyfriend.

Neji followed suit. Teuchi and Ayame just smiled at one another, grinning. More customers! More business!

Ichiraku's Ramen Shop

Two hours later

Ayame giggled. "So Naruto…I hear you have your own family and compound now. What is that like?"

Naruto looked up and slurped his last noodle. He then wiped his mouth with a napkin. "Strange and weird. One day you're the demon brat, you live in a broken down apartment, any7d everyone except maybe a few want you dead because of a demon that lives in you." He felt Kurama sigh and begin to speak.

"Kit…sweetie…I…"

Naruto then closed his eyes and focused inward so he could communicate with her privately.

Kurama. We've been over this. I'm not mad at you. Please stop blaming yourself.

"But...sweetie…how can you forgive me for all I put you through. The villagers beat you because of me. They forced you to live in that…pigsty of an apartment because of me. How are you not angry with me over that?"

Naruto sighed. "It's rather simple. You are not the monster my people claim you are. You are misunderstood. Anybody who doesn't believe that will find my fist in their teeth. That's a promise." He then heard the kitsune demon cry a bit.

"Thank you sweetie. It feels so rewarding to see you not as my jailer but as my partner for life. I love you little one. I'll keep an eye out for trouble."

Naruto smiled. "Thank you Kurama. For the record…I feel the same way. You are a dear partner in this life and a dear friend." The blonde shinobi then felt his right cheek suddenly rise in temperature along with the sensation of soft lips pressing against it. It soon went away.

"Be well little one. I promise I will alert you to the slightest sense of trouble."

Naruto then felt himself being pulled out of Kurama's mindscape. He opened his eyes only to see everyone staring at him.

Hinata was snapping her fingers in his face with a worried look. "Naruto! Naruto! Are you alright? You blanked out for a minute!"

Naruto then put his hands on her shoulders. "I'm fine Hinata. Don't worry."

Hinata nodded and felt her heart relax. Thank heavens! I was worried!

Naruto then turned to Teuchi. "Anyway…as I was saying…it has been a weird experience. Everyone has been treating me with respect. I'm…still not used to that. Being a member of two Shinobi families can be quite an interesting experience."

Ayame raised an eyebrow at him. "Wait. Two? You're only the clan head of the Uzumaki Clan right?"

Hinata then giggled at the civilian's lack of knowledge about Konohagakure's Shinobi society and squeezed his left arm. "He is but as my betrothed to be…he is automatically given family status in the Hyuuga Clan as well. Granted…it really is more of a ceremonial role. Naruto doesn't have much power or influence in my family but he is considered family. That entitles him to my family's protection and our wealth."

Ayame gave the lavender-haired kunoichi a slow nod as she didn't really understand the specifics. "So that's why all those villagers ran away when you and Neji threatened them."

Hinata gave her another nod, smiling brightly at her. "Exactly. The Hyuuga Clan is one of the strongest and most numerous clans in all of Konohagakure. We hold ryo stakes in about every business and shop in this village." Her gaze darkened and her voice lowered as she got serious. "I have the power to run most of the Center out of business if I wanted to. My threat to them was simple. Either accept the presence of my betrothed or be run out of town."

Naruto turned to her in awe. Wow. I really have to give her more credit. I didn't think she had that much power. I really lucked out with her.

Ayame nodded, smirking. "You really have grown from that shy little girl from all those years ago. I'm proud of you."

Hinata smirked, chuckling. "Why thank you." She then kissed Naruto on the right cheek and turned back to Ayame. "I had great inspiration."

Naruto smiled back at her and pulled her in even closer.

The two then heard a bit of commotion outside and turned around. "What is that?" "I'm not sure Naruto."

Ino then shunshined in front of the couple. "Ah! Hello Naruto! Hinata! I have something for you both!"

She then held out what looked like a bouquet of lavender lilacs and handed them to Hinata. "For you Hinata. Lilacs represent the colors of the Hyuga Family."

Hinata smiled warmly at her and took them from the blonde. "Aww. Thank you Ino! The gift is appreciated!"

A small card with about a thousand ryo then fell out.

Naruto managed to catch it.

Ino beamed at him. "A gift for you Naruto. Look inside the card."

Naruto did as she asked and gasped. "There is over a thousand ryo in this card!"

Ino nodded. "As the Clan Head of Clan Yamanaka…I wanted to gift you both something special to mark the rebirth of the Uzumaki Clan." She then sighed ruefully. "For what it is worth Naruto…I am truly sorry for misunderstanding you for so many years. I really thought you were a suicidal idiot desperate for attention. I…had no idea of how much you truly suffered because of our hatred for you."

Naruto chuckled at her. "To be fair Ino…A lot of it was for attention. So you weren't that far off the mark." He then put a hand on her shoulder. "Thank you Ino! The gift and apology are accepted!"

Ino felt herself blush and smiled at him. Damn. All those years wasted chasing Sasuke when I could have had the strongest card at my side. Naruto really isn't that bad looking. He's charming, witty and he also has the Kyuubi at his beck and call. Any Konohanian kunoichi would be lucky to have him as a partner. Hinata is one lucky woman. The blonde kunoichi smirked to herself and crossed her arms. She's lucky I never made my move! He would have been mine for sure! She then smiled. "I have also come with an offer Naruto."

Naruto gave her a nod. "What is it?" Innno smiled warmly at him. "The Yamanaka Clan would like to conduct business with the Uzumaki Clan. My father Inoichi has directed me to request a clan meeting with you to discuss a potential Alliance Contract between our two clans."

Hinata raised an eyebrow with a suspicious look in her eyes. "Well that is rare. Most clans only make one contract with another clan. What exactly are you offering my Naruto?" She crossed her arms at the blonde. "Surely you already know that he is already aligned with my family Ino. It is rare for one clan to align itself with two or more clans. That often causes trouble when clans find themselves in disagreements."

Ino smirked and nodded. "I see your point Hinata but I raise one in response."

Naruto raised an eyebrow at the fellow blonde. "That point being?" He was also wary of this. He trusted Hinata and her family. He had made peace with her father, considered her cousin a brother in arms, and her younger sister Hanabi…like a little sister." He didn't fully trust the other clans just yet.

Ino then smirked at him putting a hand on his shoulder "You have a lot of enemies Naruto Uzumaki. The Akatsuki…and even some inside this village hate your guts." She then smirked. "Hinata and her family are powerful allies indeed. Their Byakugan technique is a great offensive tool to defeat one's enemies with." Ino then smirked at him. "My family, however, has some of the best mind jutsu experts in all of Konohagakure. We could lend our assistance in helping the Uzumaki Clan interrogate its enemies, giving you intel on where they are going to strike and when."

Hinata's eyes widened. "Hmm I admit I didn't consider that. Your families' abilities could be some assistance to keeping my Naruto safe."

Naruto nodded. "It would be handy to know where and when they are going to strike. I'd rather not put my mother at risk again." He smirked. "Okay then. I'll talk it over with my mother. She's technically the Clan Elder since she's the only other Uzumaki in the village. We'll see what she says."

Ino smirked back. "Got it. Keep in touch then. I look forward to our talk."

Hinata then stared her down. "I just have one last question."

Ino blinked at her, surprised at the authoritative tone in the girl's question, "Uh sure Hinata. What is it?"

Hinata then gave her the most serious look she could muster. "You don't have any intention to steal Naruto from me do you?"

Ino felt her jaw drop. She then burst into laughter. "Oh Hinata! Look at you! You really have grown up! I remember when you couldn't say two words without stuttering! It's truly amazing!"

She then shook her head grinning. "I'm sorry. I'll be serious for a moment."

She then smiled at the raven-haired girl pulling her into a hug. "No. I don't Hinata. I know how long it's taken for you two to finally become a couple. I respect you as a fellow Konohanian kunoichi. Naruto is your intended. I will not disrespect that bond. Kunoichi honor."

Hinata let out the long sigh she had been holding in and hugged Ino back. "Thank you Ino. I'm sorry for asking so bluntly. I just needed to know."

Ino giggled and clasped her hands together. "I wish you both the best! Bye for now!" She then shunshined out of sight.

Naruto blinked. "Well…that was rather eventful."

Hinata latched herself around his left arm laughing. "I must say I am happy to see so many of our comrades warming up to you now beloved. It truly does warm the heart." She then giggled. "It also fills me with a sense of relief. That is less people on my kill list."

Naruto turned to her in shock. "Hnata…you would really kill our comrades…just to keep me safe? I appreciate the gesture but you don't have to go through with that if you don't want to."

Hinata then turned to him and burst out laughing. She then grabbed him by the arms and made him face her. "Naruto..light of my existence..adoring light of my life…I admire your good heart and compassion. It is what drew me to you and keeps me attached to you to this day. I am so thankful that you never let your anger and disdain for the Village overcome you." She then sighed and stared down at his hands. "The thing is...you may have forgiven them but I haven't. I'll be honest with you. I don't trust too many people in this village anymore. I still hold loyalty to the Will of Fire and to Lady Tsunade out of respect but I couldn't give two ryo about anyone else."

Naruto blinked. "So you don't like the villagers then? The Councils? Our comrades in the Konohanian military?"

Hinata looked up to him smiling and caressed his face with a hand. "Don't misunderstand my words beloved. Ino and the rest of our class are very dear to me. Granted they did give you hell for a long time but they've warmed up to you."

She then smiled broadly at him. "The Shinobi Council…I am fond of. My mother serves as the Clan Representative after all. I know that they have our best interests as Konohanian shinobi at heart."

Her gaze then darkened and her Byakugan activated as a result of letting out her anger. "As for the villagers and the Civilian Council …I despise them with every bit of my being. They have sat there on their high horses for years manipulating the politics and the state of the Hidden Leaf Village for their own gain. They are cowards…plain and simple in my eyes. They gain at the cost of all we Konoha shinobi suffer."

She then looked him in the eyes so he could see the emotion in her eyes. "They have been especially cruel to you. They have treated you with nothing but cruelty and disdain. They branded you a monster because of something you had no control over. I have watched vendors look upon you with hate when all you ever asked for was a bit of food in your stomach. I have watched grown men beat the living hell of you just because of what is inside you. I.."

She then calmed herself as she managed to regain control of her emotions. Tears of anger ran down her eyes. She then grasped his face in her hands. "I've seen how this village has hurt you. I stood back and allowed it to happen because I was too timid and scared to do anything about any of it. The guilt I feel over that still pains me to this day. That is why I'm never going to allow them to do it again. I will kill anyone I have to in order to keep you safe and protected. That is my promise…my nin-do…to you..beloved."

Naruto nodded blushing. "Wow. Our roles really have changed haven't they? It used to be I was the one to render you speechless."

Hinata then let out a playful laugh. "They sure have haven't they? I can't say I'm complaining though. I like rendering you speechless. You get that shocked expression on your face that I adore so much." She then sighed. " That reminds me. I do need your counsel on a certain matter. Would you mind accompanying me back to the Hyuuga Compound?"

Naruto nodded with a shrug. "Um..sure. I'm sure Mom wouldn't mind. It..just can't be too long. She tends to get worried when I get home late."

Hinata then kissed him on the cheek, giggling, "Good. I promise it won't be long." She then led him by the hand towards the Hyūga Compound.

Neji just followed with a knowing smirk on his face. Naruto. You really have changed her for the better. You've changed me for the better as well. I'm proud to call you kin.

Hyuga Compound, Konohagakure

As Hinata and Naruto approached the gates of the large Hyūga Compound.

The two main guards, who saw them approach, merely gave a Hyuga salute with their fists on the right side of their chests. "Lady Hinata! Gentleman Naruto!"

Hinata smiled at them and gave them a quick wave with her right hand. "Genchi! How goes the nightwatch?"

Hinata glared at him through her smile. She still hadn't forgiven the Hyūga guard for trying to kill her beloved. The man shivered and shook a bit under his armor. "I-It's w-well m'lady! No trouble as of late!"

Hinata nodded. "Good. Good. Be well then."

She then tugged on Naruto's arm, unconsciously gesturing for him to move along. Glad to see Genchi has come to terms with my beloved's presence here! I'd rather not teach him another lesson in obedience!

"Come beloved. Father is in his private quarters. He's been eagerly awaiting your return."

Naruto just glanced around and nodded. His enhanced senses were making him intensely aware of how many of his girlfriend's siblings were staring at him. "R-Right."

As they came up to the room, they spotted Hanabi who was taking her nighttime walk.

The young girl's eyes widened and she smirked and spoke in a teasing tone. "Well hello there you two. Quite a time for you both to be out this late."

Hinata chuckled back at her smirking. "I could say the same for you, Hanabi. Don't you have shuriken training with Mother in an hour?"

Hanabi suddenly went red in the face and puffed her cheeks at her big sister in an attempt to one up her. "Hn. You are a real meanie you know that big sis? Always trying to ruin my fun."

She then turned her eyes on to Naruto and gave him the most adorable pout she could muster. "Naruto..dear big brother...please tell Hinata to stop telling me what to do. I know she'll listen to you."

Naruto then gave the younger girl a foxy grin. "Heh. Don't bring all this on me Hanabi. If Hinata says you have your training…then you have your training. Besides…"

Naruto then kneeled down and ruffled the young girl's hair. "You'll never be a proper shinobi if you don't train. You can read all the scrolls you want…but if you don't train...you'll never become the best!"

Hanabi sighed ruefully. "Fine. I'll be going then. Thanks big brother." She then gave him a hug sighing. She then gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. "I love you big brother."

Naruto blinked and nervously wrapped his arms around her gently as if he were afraid of hugging her too tight. The young girl's attachment to him was still new.

He, of course, didn't have a sibling. The closest thing he had was maybe Sasuke…and to a lesser extent…Karin but he had been an only child for most of his life. "Of course Hanabi. Be..safe. I…love you too."

The young girl then broke the hug beaming at him. She then ran off towards Training Ground 2.

Hinata giggled and placed a hand on her betrothed's shoulder. "Hanabi has really taken a liking to you hasn't she beloved?"

Naruto looked up at her nodding blankly, "Yeah…it's strange. I've only been coming here for a week and she's already calling me big brother."

Hinata laughed. "As I've told you before…you have an effect on people. You inspire home in them." She then brought him to his feet and squeezed his hands in hers. "Now come on. We can't be late for our meeting with Father." Naruto just nodded.

Hiashi's Private Meeting Room, Hyuga Compound, Konohagakure

As Naruto and Hinata walked into the room, they saw Hitomi Hyuga and of course, Hiashi waiting there at a table. Naruto, due to his enhanced senses, suddenly smelled the scent of lavender candles in the air.

"The room..smells like lavender."

Hitomi smiled at her son-in-law to be. "Very good Naruto. Lavender-scented candles are a Hyuga specialty. As you come around here more often…I'm sure you'll grow more acquainted with the scent. I'm quite fond of it myself."

She smiled and then offered the young shinobi her hand.

Naruto blinked at her. "I..I'm not sure I understand."

Hitomi then turned to Hinata with a stern look. "Hinata! I thought I told you to teach him proper etiquette!"

Hinata suddenly giggled. "Oh…yeah. Sorry about that Mother. We've been having so much fun together lately that I totally forgot. My apologies."

Hitomi grunted. "It matters not. I'll just tell the boy."

Naruto turned to Hitomi with a curious look in his eyes. "Tell me what exactly?"

Hitomi then smiled warmly at him and caressed his face with a hand.

"As Hinata's bethrothed…there are certain rules you must follow. A Hyuga man must be a man of honor and grace. One of these rules is that you must kiss my hand every time we meet. It is the only proper way to greet the parents of one's betrothed."

Naruto blinked in realization and bowed his head.

"O-Of course dear mother in law."

He then took the older woman's hand and gently kissed it.

Hitomi smiled with a look of satisfaction in her eyes. "Good. You are a quick learner." She then graciously pulled her hand away.

Hiashi then stood up and offered the young clan heir a regal bow in respect. "Thank you for coming by so quickly Naruto. I hope I'm not interrupting anything important."

Naruto shook his head and bowed back in respect. "Not at all Hiashi. As Hinata's betrothed…I am honored to be here." What seems to be the problem?"

Hiashi chuckled. "I wouldn't say it is a problem per se. Hinata has come to a decision regarding the divide between both the Branch and Main family."

Naruto turned to her and blinked. "You've decided on that?

Hinata nodded at him smiling. "I have. Come. Have a seat and I will explain everything." Everyone took their seats. Hinata, who was sitting next to her betrothed, then grabbed the tea handle and turned to Naruto. "Would you like some tea beloved?"

Naruto gave her a nod.

Hinata gave him a smile. She then poured him a cup and put two sugars in. She then poured one for both her mother and father. Both of them gave her a nod in acknowledgement. She then poured one for herself and took a sip. Naruto followed her example, albeit a bit more nervously,

Hinata then began. "I have decided that the Main and Branch sides of the Family are to be one united whole."

Naruto blinked at her. "You're uniting the Families? Why?"

Hinata turned to him smiling.

She then took one of his hands into her own and squeezed it. "The fact that the Hyuga have two separating families by blood is an affront I need to correct. I'm following your example beloved. I'm giving my distant cousins the same respect I have been giving you all these years."

Naruto just nodded.

Hiashi crossed his arms, sighing. "It is a quite the radical plan. There is a lot of divide between the two families. A lot of anger. Resentment. You will have your hands full dear daughter."

Hinata smiled at her father and squeezed his arm affectionately. "I know Father but all will work out in time. The time has come to mend the bridge."

Naruto looked up at all of them. "It seems like you have already made your choice Hinata. Why am I here?"

All of the Hyugas turned to the blonde with warm smiles on their faces.

Hinata giggled and kissed him on the cheek. "Why do you think beloved? You are my betrohed and my counsel by right of my hand. Hyuga family law states that I must make these decisions with the expressed consent of my betrothed. This is your family too."

Naruto chuckled and grinned. "Heh. You've got a point. Well I have no objections. I do think of Neji as a brother of sorts. It would..be nice for that to be official and in writing."

Hinata nodded with a warm smile. "I expected that answer. So it shall be then. Thank you for standing by my side on this. Your support is earnestly appreciated."

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