The village celebration would be tomorrow, but today we would be celebrating in a different way. Today, Hokage-sama declared a "Village Hero's Day" where we would honor the ninja KIA. The village had sustained substantial losses and every year on this day we were to celebrate the lives of these fallen heroes. Today would be the day for final goodbyes and speeches from various people. We had kages from different villages present, we had Legendary Sanins present, and we were to all show up in our black dress fatigues. Today we would mourn the loss of comrades and celebrate their great contribution. I thought it funny that it chose to rain.
Every genin, chuunin, and jounin was present. The streets were lined on both sides and a podium was erected in front of the tower and Hokage Mountain. I was to be in the reception line with Sasuke, Shino, and Shikamaru. Naruto wanted us to represent the strong clans of Konoha. We were simply the best in our families and us standing there brought me back to the second part of the chuunin selection exam. Naruto, Jiraiya and Tsunade were in the beginning of the line and seeing Naruto-sama play host still caught me off guard on occasion. I was so used to seeing him as the loud mouth, eager boy that changed my outlook, that seeing him as the grown, mature politician made me realize how much we had all changed. I glanced next to me and looked at the wall of sheer male strength. Yep, we really had changed since the days of being a ragtag mix of boys. We held our heads higher and we exerted a tangible confidence. Then I looked at the crowd as I waited for the dignitaries to walk towards me.
We had our ANBU and Black Ops in the front, followed by our elite jounin, i.e., Kakashi, Tonbo, Gai, Asuma, Ebisu, Behind them we had our jounin instructors, Kiba, Lee, Choji, Ino, Kurenai and key medical personnel, Shizune, Sakura, Hinata. Behind them were the Chuunins of various professions and last in line were the genin and to end the procession were the summoned animals, i.e., a slug, a snake, a dog, a monkey, a frog so that they could say goodbye as well. I looked up when the first dignitary stood in front of me. It was the Lord and Lady of Fire Country. I said the prerequisite words and turned my attention to the next person. It was Gaara-sama. The siblings had been invited to show that we are allies and will be allies for a long time. After chatting with him, he headed down the line. Next up was the kage from the Village Hidden in the Clouds. He looked at me, and then looked at me again. To say that I looked like my father was an understatement. I said a few words, and he just kept looking at me. I would've bet my life that this was the man that attempted the coup de etat. And I would've bet that this was the man that demanded the body of my father. I vowed to keep my eye on him. I bowed to him, he bowed back and I felt the hairs stand up on my arms. I wondered why he was here and that question plagued me as I talked with other dignitaries as they passed. When the last one passed me, my stomach growled. I could smell the vendors making tempura and spring rolls and all other sorts of food. Sue me.
Once everyone was seated and settled, Naruto-sama went up to the podium to give his speech. In the background, the ninja corps stood at attention while our village song was played. It was a sign of respect for the dead. Naruto-sama then read the crowd a poem written by the academy class about the fallen ninja. It was then to be inscribed on the entrance to the new monument. Then names that had been written on the old memorial had been desecrated and so they were transferred to the new monument. The monument was a lot larger than the old one and had a beautiful granite layout. There was a fountain in the middle and a barrage of weeping willows that landscaped the site. It was peaceful and beautiful. I admired the craftsmanship. After the poem was read, the names of the fallen were read. I recognized too many of them. Some were friends from the academy, some I had seen grow up; and Udon were unfortunately included in this list. Some were instructors, comrades, and some were parents. A quiet heaviness settled over the village as each name was read and each heart broke at hearing a loved ones name. I heard the name of a few Branch members, my true family. I bowed my head and sent a prayer to the heavens. When the names were finished Naruto gave his eulogy. He unfolded a piece of paper from his pocket and cleared his throat.
"Today, we honor the sacrifice that these brave soldiers have made for our village. Each of us knew them in many ways, some good and some bad. Today is about how each one laid their lives on the line so that Konoha could have a future. Some people believe that being a ninja is condemning one's life to being nothing but a tool to be used by others, however, that's not what it is about. A ninja is the life force behind any village. They provide leadership and fight for the common good. They are strong, educated, and loyal and are good role models for any village. They set the standard and are each unique in their own ideals and they fought live and limb to protect those ideals. These ninja gave their lives so that Konoha could start new life and continue to thrive. Let us all strive to be as great as these ninja have been. Our lives depend on our achievements in our field of work. Although these ninja have fallen, they protected the ones they loved by sacrificing the one gift precious to them, life. That is the greatest achievement, to die for your ideals and to never go back on your way of life and your philosophy. That truly makes a hero. May their souls travel a safe path and may they rest knowing that Konoha will be better and continue to grow because of their sacrifice. I honor them all. Let's all honor them by attending the "Celebration of Life" tomorrow and truly experiencing our future. May Fate smile on the people of Konoha again."
There wasn't a dry eye in the audience. It was riveting and well versed. He really put forth the effort and I was glad that he was our Rokudaime. I looked around the audience and smirked at the reactions. Kakashi-sensei was clearly impressed and Iruka nodded in his head in Naruto's direction. It seems through the fog, Naruto once again inspired hope in his village. They believed in him because he believed in his nindo. We made our salutes to the fallen, paid our respects to the monument and were dismissed. Funny, the rain has stopped and the sun started to shine. It was a sign, I was sure.
I headed towards Naruto who was talking with Jiraiya-sama. As I approached they stopped and turned towards me.
"Naruto-sama, may I have a moment of your time? There is something I must ask you."
"Sure. I think I have an idea as to where this is going. Would this be about a certain Cloud Village representative?"
"Yes. What is he doing here? No offense, but he makes me uncomfortable."
"I extended an invitation to all the villages as a sign of respect. I saw it as a way to rebuild some bridges that need to be resurrected again. I didn't really think he'd show. But don't worry; I have Ibiki's guys tracking his every move. I was a shocked as you when he arrived. In fact, I've been assured that he will only be here for the night. I hear they are having money problems again and are looking for allies. However, in light of your history with this country, I completely understand how you feel. I can always have someone report to you if you are truly concerned."
"No, that won't be necessary. I just feel he is up to something and I can't put my finger on it."
"We will talk later about this. There is too much company here. Plus, I see Hinata coming my way. So if you will excuse me?"
"Yes, Hokage-sama." I watched him hug Hinata. She was never really good at hiding her emotions. Her eyes were bloodshot, proof that she'd been crying at her husband's words. I turned away and went to home to finish the details of tomorrow's celebration.
The next day, the sun was shining and the birds, all 11,289 of them were chirping. I had a lot of work to do today. Mostly, it was seeing to our guests of the village and to finish up finalizing the return of the Wave workers to their village. I headed toward my office to drop off the paperwork with the mission committee. I headed towards the front of the line when I saw Tenten and Lee with his genin cell.
"Hey Neji-kun! Picking up or dropping off?"
"Dropping off. What about you?"
"I am picking up my first mission since the surgery. I am so excited. Lee and is group are going to be joining me as a safeguard."
"If you are unsure of your strength, maybe you shouldn't be out and about on missions yet."
"I'm fine. I am sure of my strength. Plus, these kids have grown on me."
"I want a full mission report once you are done. Lee-kun, make sure she doesn't overdo it. What mission did you get anyway?"
She unfolds the scroll,
"We will be working the soup line. Old man Nagawa threw his back out, so he commissioned us to help. Of course, since he is a non-profit entity, the village treasury will be paying us."
I looked down at the mission in my hand, then I looked at Lee and his group.
"Would you like to go on a separate mission? I need some escorts for the workers from Wave."
"Sure, how will this be ranked? I have rent coming up."
"No higher than C. I expect no trouble, plus there will be two other jounin accompanying you."
"Ok, I'll do it."
"Great. Well, I am off. I have to finish preparations for tonight."
"So you are going then?" Tenten asked me.
"Yes, but the celebration I will miss most of. I have an appreciation dinner then I will have to play host while Naruto-sama does his thing. I won't have time for frivolity."
"Oh, you will be at the dinner as well?"
"Yes. I wasn't aware that you'd be there. Why are you going?"
"Naruto-sama said I should go because I designed a great weapon and he is giving them as gifts to certain people."
"See you then I suppose."
"Yeah, bye." She turned away from me and I left to head back home.
When I got to my place, it dawned on me that I have a very limited wardrobe. I rummaged through my closet and opted for my basic fatigues. I was technically on duty tonight, so I might as well go comfortable. After a quick shower and shave, I head towards the main reception area.
A big tent was erected near the tower and tables were being set up. Plates, chopsticks and an assortment of glasses were being polished and placed accordingly. I checked in with my project manager who was prepping all the food. Afterwards, I brushed up on my "who's who" and looked at the various place cards. It seemed the advisors and heads of departments were at one table, guests of the kages were at another, Naruto and Hinata were placed at another with the other still present kages and their wives. How political is that? Very. I snort to myself and in an act of sheer curiosity, I wanted to see where she would be sitting. I found her table which was way across the room from mine. Her table contained a few members of Black Ops, obviously here for protection of the kages, and there was also Temari and Kankuro's name. That should be interesting. Then I started thinking. Shino let it slip that I got bested by his cousin. Time for revenge. Fate's a bitch. Heehee, I chuckled to myself. I switched Temari's name with another member of the Leaf that was sitting with us so she would have to sit with Shino. Might as well make him uncomfortable tonight. I whistled to myself as I did this. I mean, who is going to question me? Exactly. No one. I switched my name with Shikamaru's so he would have to sit next to Sasuke, and then I left. I am such a rebel. The dinner would start in an hour and I headed to find my other colleagues.
The sun started to set as I finally wandered back to the tent. I showed up and suddenly felt underdressed. Everyone here was in kimonos and well, I looked like I came in from the field. Oh well. I headed for the reception line when a hand was placed on my shoulder.
"Neji-kun, what are you wearing?"
I turn and look and see Naruto-sama behind me.
"Fatigues. I am technically still working."
"Go home and change. Tonight you are a guest of mine. I order you to."
"I really don't have anything clean." Sure, that excuse always works.
"Nice try. You are off the clock. Go change."
"Yes, sir." I sighed and left. Just as I was about to enter my condo, I saw Tenten walking my way. The light from the lamps shone off her porcelain skin and her hair was styled nicely. Her kimono was red with emerald dragons battling. It hugged her figure quite nicely. The flower in her hair was a tiny lotus blossom. I called out to her to pull myself out of my stupor. I probably looked stupid with my mouth hanging open and my feet on the stairs not moving.
"Tenten, are you headed toward the tent?"
"Yes, are you going in those clothes?"
"I had planned on it, but Naruto-sama thought differently."
"Well, I will see you in a few then." She smiled at me and walked a few feet.
"Wait, if you give me a few seconds, I will escort you." Where did that come from? She turned her head at that and smacked into a light pole in front of her. Guess she wasn't expecting that statement either.
"Um, ok. But hurry, we only have fifteen minutes."
I went upstairs and grabbed my formal kimono. I was hoping not to have to wear this because it itched. Ok, so I hate wool/polyester blend. As I exited, I walked down to her and we headed on our way.
As we entered, Naruto-sama said one word to me. "Better." I rolled my eyes and escorted her to her table. I passed pleasantries with Kankuro then headed towards my own. This should be interesting seeing Shino sweat. I sat down after trading words with my company and waited. Once Shino arrived, he was shocked to see Temari at his table.
"Hello Temari, no offense, but I thought this table was for advisors only."
"What do you think I do for Suna? You are mistaken if you think Kankuro is the advisor to Gaara-sama."
"Hmm." He sits down and Shikamaru looks at me. He shakes his head and I smirk at him. Sasuke looks generally lost.
The dinner was well underway when various toasts were given. Inari was toasted, as well as Naruto-sama. I was taking a sip of my sake when I happened to glance at Tenten's table. She looked to be enjoying herself. She was still a little stiff, but she seemed generally happy and affable. Then something hit me like a punch to the face. She leaned in when Kankuro told her something. Maybe it was the way he was looking at her, but her posture seemed a little too interested. Then it dawned on me. She was single. He was single. They were the same age, he was the brother of a very powerful man, he was a good catch. That really didn't sit well with me. Maybe I was deluding myself in thinking that she would always stay single. She's Tenten. She's practical, tomboyish, headstrong. She's an angel, she's beautiful and smart. Again, she leaned in to listen what he was saying. Something in me clicked. I may have set my drink down a little harder than necessary. I heard the china clink and I refocused on my surroundings. The topic turned to the dance that was to follow the dinner.
"So, do any of you plan on attending the dance?"
"I have no choice, Ino-chan threatened me. Man pregnant women are so troublesome." Shikamaru complained.
"Sakura-chan was of the same mind. She said she'd use an irreversible medical jutsu on me. I got suckered into it."
Shino's response was cryptic as hell so I didn't know about him.
"A desert blossom blooms best under the the cool shadow of the cactus." HUH? Temari replied with a
"The cactus shall never overshadow the desert blossom, they shall share the light together." Shino just pushed up his sunglasses. I just blanched at the obvious sexual commentary going on. I think Sasuke gagged on his egg roll.
"I will be there overseeing the process." I said as I swallowed another belt of sake. Man this stuff was good.
"You work too much, you should enjoy yourself for once." Temari put her hand on my arm and I just looked at it. She whispered in my ear that I wasn't fooling anyone and that she caught my obvious staring at Tenten and her brother. I shrugged her off and after another hour of dinner courses, I was starting to feel the effects of the good sake. We were at an end of the dinner and excused to enjoy the festivities. I was the first to head out so I could check in with the behind scenes guys. I checked in and after half an hour I decided to check in on the dance.
I saw many friends out there dancing and I saw many of them sitting, trying to avoid dancing if possible. Kakashi and Choji were amongst this group. I saw the girls of all ages, primping in the corner. I waved to a several people and joined Lee who looked a little disjointed since no one wanted to dance with him.
"Hey, having fun enjoying the springtime of your youth?"
"Lee…" I threatened. "Where is Gai-sensei? He is usually around you somewhere."
"Oh, Anko-san, told him to dance with her."
"Anko? She's crazy."
"No more so than Gai-sensei." I looked at him with shock.
"I was just kidding. I am actually waiting to dance with Tenten-chan once she shows." We waited and waited until she finally showed up. But she didn't show up alone. On her arm? None other than Kankuro. What the hell? I saw Lee looking at me, but I didn't care. Something clicked. I tightened my hold on my drink and turned away. Lee apparently missed my red flag when he bounded up to her and claimed her for the first dance. She accepted and he made his way towards his sister and brother. I just stood there watching her dance and I was not happy. Lee was horrible. At least I was trained to dance. Don't ask. Long story. I was about to interject when the song ended. Song after song was played and she danced dance after dance and I just watched from my corner. After half an hour, I put my empty glass on a nearby table and tried to leave when Hinata stopped me. I looked for her husband but he was off with Jiraiya in the corner.
"Neji-kun, why aren't you dancing?"
"It's frivolous and I am on duty."
"No it's not, and no you're not. There are plenty of girls out there. You do have a fan club, just ask one of them. I know you are a little shy.."
"I am not shy. Don't ever assume anything about me. I just don't want to dance."
"Maybe not, but I can see through you. You've been looking at her the moment she walked in with Kankuro-san. Temari thought it would be great to have Kankuro meet a nice girl and think about settling down. He opted for Tenten. That makes you crazy doesn't it?"
"I am only answering because you are Naruto-kun's wife. No, I have no qualms about seeing her dance with anyone. It's not like even like her in that way."
"Sure you don't. Just keep telling yourself that. Remember, eighty percent of your language is non-verbal."
I just glared at her and walked off. The band announced that this would be the last song and said they would strike up a waltz after a brief reprieve. I was headed toward the refreshment table when I bumped into the one person I was trying to admire from a distance. Note, from a distance.
"Um, hi. I haven't seen you all night." The way her skin was flushed from the physical exertion and the way her flower was starting to fall out kept me captivated.
"I've been here. You should slow down a bit. You still aren't up to full strength."
"I'm fine. I am having a wonderful time. I haven't seen you dancing. Don't you like these functions?"
"Not particularly. I am a more sit back and watch guy." She lost all of the brightness in her smile and she just nodded to herself.
"Oh. Ok, well, I will be off then." I saw my opportunity slip right through my fingers. Was it so hard for me to put my pride away for one night? Apparently so. I was about to leave when I heard Kiba ask her to dance. HELL NO. THAT WAS NOT GOING TO HAPPEN. I wouldn't let him get his paws on her.
They walked to the dance floor and I went in with blinders on.
"May I interject? This dance is mine, Kiba."
"Oh really, you didn't ask her. I did, so move it."
"I don't think so. Back off Kiba and go lick your paw in the corner."
"It's not like she's yours or anything. I can dance with a pretty girl if I want."
"You won't touch her."
"Possessive are we? Or should I say jealous? You are just jealous that you moved too quickly. I tell ya what. I will let you dance with her if she says it's ok, otherwise, I am not going anywhere."
Tenten put her hand on my arm and turned me towards her.
"Neji-kun, I don't mind dancing with him."
"See, she doesn't mind Neji-kun."
"Fine, whatever. Have your dance then."
"Wait, Neji-kun! He didn't let me finish. I said, I don't mind dancing with him, but I would rather dance with you."
I stopped in my tracks.
"Really? Great. Kiba no offense, but I will ask you to leave now. Besides, she has always belonged to me. She just didn't know it until now. Tenten-chan, may I have this dance?"
"Sure thing, Neji-kun." The music started up after a small crowd had formed. We danced around the floor and surprisingly she was good at it. She stepped on my foot only once and blushed gracefully. Throughout the dance, I started thinking about all of the different sides I had seen of her. I thought about Inari's comments, Lee's compliments, and my musings about her and kids. Then I thought about the hug in the hospital. I went against my family and donated blood. Then I thought of Gaara's comment about backing up a decision. I got what he meant when she looked up at me. I would save her over and over again. Why? Simple. I loved her in my own special way. People think I am cold and uncaring, but this slip of a woman somehow melted me. It's because she was herself without any pretension. Simple and practical. That's what she was. Perfect. The dance ended sadly and I dropped my arm from around her waist.
"Well, Hyuuga, not bad. You are a great dancer. How was I? Please be kind."
"You were perfect except for one thing."
"What? What was my transgression that will doom me forever?" She raised her eyebrow at me.
"You didn't let me finish earlier."
"Huh?"
"When I asked if I could have this dance, I meant could I have this dance for the rest of my life?"
She gasped and blushed.
"Tenten, I know I am a difficult man, but would you consider being by my side? More than just friends. You've been by my side for years, I would like to take it to the next level with you."
"Neji-kun, there is an audience. This is so unlike you."
"I don't give a damn about the audience. Will you go out with me?"
"Yes, yes I will."
We left the middle of the ballroom hand in hand and I led her to the bridge. A sea of people parted as we exited the tent and I think I over heard Kiba making a comment. I believe it was, "see, I told you it would work." I'll kick his ass later, but for now, the only person I am directing my attention towards was this creature in front of me.
"Neji-kun? How long have you known?"
"Since the hospital."
"You really don't mind the fact that I'm scarred across my back and that the emotion from that will take awhile for me to digest?"
"No. Remember how I told you that I had a few battle scars that I never told you about? You've helped heal some of those. But this isn't why I asked you out."
"Why did you then?"
"The same reason you said yes. It felt right."
"Yeah, but it will feel better if you kiss me."
"Yes ma'am." I leaned in and soared higher than any bird. A cage around my heart opened and I felt free for the first time in a long while because of this woman in my arms.
AN: Review and you get a cookie. I corrected a minor mistake. So things should be kosher now.