HAPPY NEW YEAR MY WONDERFUL, KIND, PATIENT, LOYAL, PHENOMENAL, LOVING, SUPPORTIVE, AND ALL AROUND THE BEST FOLLOWERS A HORRIBLE UPDATER LIKE ME COULD EVER ASK FOR!
I know there isn't any excuse I can make for not updating within the last couple of month and I know I can't make it up to you but I hope you can see it in your hearts to read this next chapter.
All I can ask for is for (and I know it's more than I deserve) is your continual support and I hope that you like this chapter!
-AC
Hinata P.O.V
I slept soundly that night. There was a guilty feeling in my stomach when I awoke the next morning, still in the clothes I had worn from the day before. I should have been tossing and turning all night. I should have been worried about Naruto and concerned about Neji's well being after the battle. Instead I had slept for an estimate of 12 hours straight without ever dreaming of the man who is supposed to be my one true love. I sat in bed pondering why I had not spent the night grieving. Because, I thought with malice finally getting out of bed, this happens too often for me to be affected anymore. Though the fact was harsh, it was still true. Why should I worry anymore after the third or fourth separation? I went to wash up and as I saw my reflection in the mirror, all of the fear and worry came crashing down. Within an instant, I was gripping the washbasin with my left hand as an anchor and clutching my heart in the other. My breathing was erratic and the images of Naruto's face and Neji's limp body began flashing through my mind. I relived Hanabi's fruitless questioning and felt Tenten's fear, willing myself not to vomit. My stomach was churning trying to force me to empty its contents but there were none. I had not eaten and the effects were almost immediate once I had realized this. I began to feel dizzy while still witnessing the battle from the evening before. Laying on the floor, I allowed the coolness of the tiles to calm me down. With each slow intake of breath, I saw blue eyes, and with each outtake, I felt panic. Then suddenly a feeling of joy woke me up. I had just remembered Naruto's proclamation of love.
He had said he loved me.
In the midst of all the chaos and agony I had forgotten that during the fight between my cousin and Naruto, Naruto had said he loved me. I felt even more sick.
How could he love me when all our relationship ever seemed to bring him was hurt? A man who had spent his entire life battered and in fear was now doomed to love someone who could only give him just that.
I stayed there motionless in self pity for a good length of time before a knock on the door forced me to my feet. A glance at the mirror on my way out showed me once again the horrific state I was in. I opened the door slowly and saw a Hyuuga guard standing there.
"Master Hiashi wishes you to report to his chambers immediately. I am to escort you there now." He looked at my wrinkled clothing and bare feet. "However it might be prudent for you to finish dressing." I nodded and closed the door to prepare. I entered my closet but stood there for some time pondering what it was that my father wanted. His meeting request could not have been about Naruto could it? Had Neji told him about the events from the day before? It wasn't possible for after all hadn't Neji promised to remove the guards and keep Naruto's relationship with me a secret if Naruto had won and Naruto had, in fact, won.
Having changed into formal attire, I exited my room and followed the guard to my father's chambers. The guard escorted me into the outer chamber where he then left me to enter my father's room alone. I silently knocked on the door once and was immediately told to enter. Upon opening the door, I saw my father sitting solemnly in front of me. His desk was pushed aside and a small pillow was placed in front of him. I sat hesitantly on it and refused to look at the stern face across from me.
Minutes passed before my father finally spoke.
"You have dishonored me Hinata." He said in a cold voice. I finally looked up in surprise but his eyes removed any confusion. He knew. Saying nothing I lowered my head and stared at my knees. My father stared at me with unforgiving eyes before starting again.
"Do you know who that man is?"
I continued to remain silent. Taking my silence as a yes my father continued on.
"The guard who accompanied you and Hanabi on your walk reported to me immediately as he is supposed to do when the DEMON FOX is supposedly IN LOVE with the Hyuuga heiress. Now I am confused as to why that thing is shouting nonsense like that. How would the DEMON FOX OF KONOHA be on good enough terms to even know who the Hyuuga heiress is?!" His voiced raised higher in anger.
"H-How do y-y-you-?" I was cut off before I could ask.
"How do YOU know who he is?! How are you familiar with that man?!"
I couldn't respond. In fact I didn't want to respond. But the silence was starting to infuriate Hiashi-sama. He slapped his hand down onto his thigh.
"Answer me now." The command forced the words out of my mouth.
"We m-met at the b-b-bazaar."
"When?"
"W-When?" I repeated stupidly. My father's eyes narrowed. With pursed lips he asked his question again.
"When did you meet him?"
I hesitated before drawing breath and answering.
"A-About half of a y-y-year ago." I saw from my periphery my father's hands close into fists.
"You have been in contact with the demon for half of a year?" He asked.
"Y-Y-Yes." My voice shook. I expected my father's wrath to hail down on me but what he said next seemed worse than any shower of anger.
"You will never see that man again." I finally raised my face and the absolute shock I felt seemed to show for I could see my father's features twist in anger I gaped at him, gasping like a fish on land. I couldn't keep my breathing steady and as I clutched my shirt, I knew my father was looking at me in disgust. It took me a few minutes to calm down.
"Father, p-p-please you ca-ca-"
"DO NOT TELL ME WHAT I CAN AND CANNOT DO!" He finally shouted, standing up to his full height as I looked back to the floor, my anxiety coming back.
"You!" His voice shook as he spoke down at me. "I will not allow you to jeopardize the Hyuuga family honor!"
I began to cry. I couldn't stop the flow of tears that fell onto the silk pillow.
"B-B-But father, I lov-"
"HOW DARE YOU." He seethed. I waited for a hand to hit me but it never came. Instead my father turned his back to me. "You dare...you….that abomination. I could never let that thing..." He broke off.
"I will never let a Hyuuga heir socialize with, let alone...marry, the demon host." My father turned back to me. The anger in his voice had faded and was now replaced with stony precision. "Never forget that your loyalties are to the Hyuuga clan."
"F-F-Father…" I pleaded. This time I felt the rush of wind as his hand came flying but it stopped in mid air. He composed himself once again.
"You are a grown woman so I will not raise my hand to you. But you should be grateful I haven't sent every available Hyuuga soldier after that monster. Because of my good will and desire not to make a scene, that devil continues to breathe and live somewhere inside the city. You will do as you are told unless you wish for me to send him to the gates of hell where he belongs. I forbid you to see him again. You will not ever under any circumstance speak to or meet with that thing. Do you understand?"
My voice would not come to me. I remained in my spot, stifling sobs, and continuing to allow the tears to well in the corner of my eyes.
"RESPOND."
"I understand." I squeaked in fear, feeling my back straighten in surprise. My father gave me one last cursory glance in disgust before turning away from me.
"Leave."
I lept up immediately pushing through the doors, rushing past the guard, trying desperately to conceal my tears but there was no use. I sprinted back to my room and finally broke into a sob once I had reached my door, not caring about what the other Hyuugas thought of my behavior.
I cried and I cried and I cried and I cried until I finally fell asleep.
Naruto P.O.V.
The events from a week ago were still fresh in my mind as I cleaned a blue pan in the sink. I was scrubbing the grime thoughtlessly as my mind wandered through the battle watching myself fight Neji, witnessing Tenten's sudden presence, and finally noticing Hinata on the sidelines before she was whisked out of sight. I had almost chased after Hinata and the other girl as they sprinted away but someone's hand was clasped against my arm. I turned to see another one of the bright eyed lackeys holding me back. He warned me not to follow the heiress and to leave the compound and never return if I knew what was good for me. I told him I didn't care about what was good for me. The Hyuuga's gripped tightened and he pulled me closer giving me what he thought was supposed to be an intimidating stare.
"If you do not want to make the situation worse for Hinata-sama, you will leave at once." The man vanished leaving me alone on the battle ground. I stood there contemplating my next move and soon after decided to leave and gather my thoughts at home. Now seven days later, I still didn't know what I was supposed to do. I wasn't stupid. I knew full well that the guards would still be there no matter what Neji promised. If anything the security was probably tightened. My theory was confirmed when I went back to check. There were guards stationed at every entrance AND in the outer grounds including the training ground where Neji and I had battled. The earth was leveled and even as if nothing had ever happened.
I didn't dare go back in case someone had spotted me. I figured the security would intensify if I continued to loiter around the compound.
CRRRRACK.
In my frustration I had accidentally snapped the pan in two. A large gash suddenly appeared on my hand and blood began gushing from the spot where the skillet had cut me. I loudly swore and grabbed the nearest dish rag wrapping it around my hand. I bit my lip biting back tears that had nothing to do with the pain. Jiraiya had poked his head into the room to see what had happened. I pinched the bridge of my nose hoping the tears would vanish before Jiraiya could ask.
"That's one way to clean dishes. If we don't have any then you don't have to clean at all." He said in exasperation, taking the broken pieces and throwing them away. I turned away from him and simply grunted in response. I removed the cloth from my hand and watched as my body began to repair itself almost instantaneously. Jiraiya had taught me about the incredible regenerative ability I had because of the demon fox. Throwing the blood soaked towel away, I grabbed my jacket and moved to the door.
"I'm heading out." Before Jiraiya could say anything, I slammed the door and bolted towards the bazaar. The bazaar was my last resort. Like I usually did whenever Hinata and I were forced apart, I sat at the apple stall every day waiting for any sign of her or Tenten or even a bit of inspiration from the apple guy. I explained to him what had happened days after the battle. At first he simply looked at me in awe. Grabbing an apple, I irritatedly waited for a response that seemed as though it would never come. I snapped my fingers in his face.
"I'm sorry it's just...I can't believe it."
"Yeah I KNOW! I mean how fucking often is this supposed to happen?!" A nearby shopper gave me a stern look and shuffled to move their kid away from the stall. The apple guy looked at me in continued shock.
"No I mean I can't believe you beat Neji Hyuuga."
"What?" I said spitting apple chunks everywhere. After all I said, the only thing he was concerned about was the result of the match? Was he serious? Shaking his head he turned away to bag up some green apples.
"No one has ever beaten Neji Hyuuga. You," He looked at me with proud eyes. "You must be a very powerful ninja."
I couldn't help but break into a smile, much to the apple man's surprise.
"Yeah well I am the best there ever was. I'm going to be Hokage someday!"
"Ho-Hokage?!" He blurted out, dropping a few apples in the process. I shook my head and saw the man smile back in return.
"You know, I honestly believe it though I can't possibly imagine the day a moron like you becomes Hokage." We broke out into raptured conversation about my future and for the first time all thought of Hinata had vanished.
But that was the last time I was able to ignore my problem. Though the apple man tried his best to ease the pain, there was still no forgetting that here for what was the fourth or fifth or I can't even remember what time, I was alone.
I walked down the stalls jealously watching families shop together and couples feed each other. As I approached the stall, I saw a familiar face sitting in my usual spot. My mind did a double take as I saw Tenten sitting in my chair, eating an apple, and talking to the apple guy. I raced over and grabbed her in a hug which she reciprocated immediately. I pulled back and stared into her brown eyes which were looking at me pityingly. Before I could say anything she turned away from me, thanked the apple man, and motioned for me to follow her. We walked in silence for some time before she started speaking.
"How are you?"
"How am I?" I asked incensed. "How are you? How is Hinata? What the hell is going on? When can I see her again?"
Tenten took her sweet time in responding. She waited until we had reached a relatively deserted portion of the bazaar where merchants were selling more obscure artifacts not meant for the general public. A yellow toothed vendor was whispering to a handsome man about some shady looking vial he had in his hand. The man looked from side to side and upon seeing my gaze, ushered the crone into the tent to continue his business in a more private setting. Tenten walked towards a very rough faced man selling menacing looking kunai who simply nodded and looked away as she pushed past the drapery into his tent. I followed her into a storeroom that smelled strongly of something foul and, what my heightened sense of smell told me, was blood. I wanted to ask Tenten how she was acquainted with such a weird part of the city but that line of questioning would have to wait. She sat down on an unlabeled barrell and motioned for me to sit on the one next to her. I waved my hand and remained standing. Taking a deep breath she began.
"I'm fine and so is Hinata." I exhaled in relief. At least Hinata was okay and for now that was all I could really ask for. Tenten eyed me cautiously before continuing.
"However," She started slowly as if choosing each word carefully. "Hinata is forbidden from ever seeing you again."
"WHAT?!" I shouted eliciting a wince from Tenten. "Why can't she see me anymore?"
"Hiashi-sama, her father, found about the battle from the guard that was accompanying us. He told Hiashi-sama that you were the one who beat Neji, that you said you were in love with Hinata, and," She paused and gathered her breath, "that you are the host of the demon fox."
Tenten looked at me with a weary expression almost as if she expected the demon to come flying from me once she had said the words. Her eyes held a familiar scene, one that I had witnessed countless times in those of others. She fears you, a voice that wasn't my own but still familiar to me came from within my mind. That girl was supposed to be your friend but like all the rest she fears you. How soon until she begins to hate you? It said with a hint of a smirk.
"You're afraid of me." I stated lamely turning my head away.
"Yeah, I am." My eyes widened in surprise. There was some part of me that was expecting her to react similar to how Hinata had reacted. I was hoping that Tenten would say she wasn't scared of me and hit me on the head and smile like she usually did. I felt my throat clench and I turned away from her towards the edge of the tent.
"Well I guess this is goodbye then." I walked toward the tent entrance but before I could take another step I felt a kunai clip my ear and saw it wedge itself into the wooden rods keeping the tent up. I turned to look at Tenten who still wore a look of fear and anticipation but her hands remained steady.
"What was that for?!" I exclaimed touching my ear and feeling the wet blood between my fingers. I knew the small cut would heal in seconds and it wasn't that big of a deal but outrage flared up in me.
"Where do you think you're going?" She said trying to hide the shakiness. Tenten's eyes never broke my hard stare and I moved back. She pulled out a small scroll, unraveled it and conjured up two mugs. Grabbing another kunai hanging from the tent poles, she used it to cut a hole in the side of the barrell she was sitting on and almost instantly deep amber liquid spilled from it. She filled up both mugs and used the kunai as a stopper to prevent any more of the juice from flowing out. Tenten motioned for me to take a mug and I did so though still angry and hurt. I took a large gulp and felt the amber fall smoothly down my throat and burn my stomach. Tenten had waited for me to take the first drink before taking a hearty mouthful herself. She continued to drink until her mug was finished then wiped her mouth on her sleeve. As she poured herself another drink she started to smile.
"This is the finest ale imported all the way from Suna. It's technically illegal to sell in the Kingdom since the alcohol content is higher than the legal sale limit for any beverage. But the man out there smuggles me a barrel of this once every few months. I drank this for the first time on a mission in Suna with Lee and Neji. It was one of our first ones without Gai sensei and we wanted to celebrate." She shook her head laughing a little at the fond memory. Sitting back on the barrel, she motioned for me to take another drink and once I did she continued the story. "God it was such a fiasco. Lee had only ever drank with Gai sensei and sensei never told us how unbearably rowdy Lee got when he was drunk. He nearly took down the entire bar and it was one of the only times Neji couldn't subdue Lee. It took both of us and a few other nin who were escorting us to finally restrain Lee and when he woke up in the morning he didn't remember any of it. Neji and I continued to drink while we watched over him. I think we talked very late into the night and I remember waking up with my head on Neji's shoulder. He hadn't moved all night and I guess he just stayed awake for the two of us." Her cheeks began to flush though Tenten didn't look at all abashed by the intimate story. I was glad she felt comfortable telling me these things but I wanted her to get to the point. I was still waiting to hear about Hinata. Sensing my tension, Tenten looked back at me.
"Do you like it?"
"Yeah it's good." I said impatiently.
"You should drink some more."
"I don't want-"
"Drink." Getting increasingly more annoyed I finished the drink. Tenten swiftly grabbed my mug, refilled it, and replaced it back in my hand within a minute. She sat on the dirt floor and leaned against the barrel and this time I followed suit leaning against a chest across from her. She swished the contents of the mug.
"This drink is precious to me not just because of it's taste and allure. It reminds me of fond times with some of the most important people to me. Just like how these apples remind me of you and Hinata." She pulled out an apple and a kunai from behind her back and began to peel it. She cut up chunks of the fruit into her drink and tossed the rest of the apple to me.
"I'm not going to lie I was a bit frightened when I found out about you. I mean, we had all heard stories of the beast when we were children. The fox demon was the nightmare that all the kids in Konoha were raised to fear."
"I know." I interrupted ignoring the bitterness in my voice. Tenten watched me as I took a bite of the apple and another drink of my ale.
"But you're not a monster. You're Naruto and there's no way I'd be scared of an idiot like you." I looked at her and saw a small smile flit across her lips. She sighed.
"I'm still fearful of the fox demon but I know you Naruto. You're my friend and I know you're not some fairytale monster. So you don't have to worry about me." Hot tears fell from my eyes and slid down my face. I looked into my mug and let the tears fall into the liquid. All of the anger, anxiety, and fear I felt after her initial statement were escaping me in the form of silent droplets. Tenten didn't say anything and allowed me to compose myself in peace the same way I had let her weeks before. When finally the tears stopped and I felt my throat unclench, I took a long drink of the ale and slouched out of tiredness.
"Thanks." My voice cracked and I still refused to look at Tenten. I only hoped she understood how grateful I was. I had to stop worrying about being rejected because just like many others before her, Tenten was a friend who accepted me for my most fatal flaw.
"Hinata-" I began again but Tenten cut me off.
"She won't be able to leave the compound for a few months I suspect. Her security has been tightened so severely that I was only able to request an audience with her because Neji has vouched for me."
"Speaking of which how is he?" I asked halfheartedly seeing as I wasn't actually that worried about the guy.
"His chakra was severely depleted and his body was in shock from exhaustion but he recovered quickly."
"That's good." I said dryly and took another drink. Tenten smiled and looked at me.
"He's different now though."
"What do you mean?" This time Tenten took a drink but the smile didn't vanish.
"His demeanor has…changed. I think after his battle with you he's become more...positive? His outlook on things seems to be more optimistic. I think the things you said really got to him. You know, all of that stuff about changing your own fate seemed to have a real impact on him. I mean, he's been a lot more kinder to me if only slightly."
"So did you guys make up?"
"...well, I think so?" She said draining her mug. Tenten was still pink in the face but didn't seem to be influenced by the alcohol. However she didn't move to refill her cup. "He apologized for the things he said and for the way he treated me but we didn't really talk about it after that."
"That's good." I said this time actually meaning my words. Tenten deserved this. She deserved to be happy even if it was because of the very man who tried to ruin my own relationship.
"Yeah it is…" She said her mind wandering away from the stall to some other memory, one that I didn't have access too. I finished the rest of my ale and threw the mug at her. She caught it and her face changed from bliss to a look of seriousness.
"It's actually because of Neji I'm still able to meet with Hinata. Hiashi-sama knows of my relationship with you though I don't think he realizes to what extent. Neji made it seem as if I had knowledge of your relationship with Hinata and I was merely an impartial witness rather than a biased friend. For now the Hyuuga household thinks I only knew of the relationship and I'm only guilty of allowing it to happen. If they knew that we were also close friends I don't think I'd be able to see Hinata either." She slowly stood up and moved over to give me her arm. I pulled myself up.
"Because of the nature of my involvement in the situation, I'm also being stringently watch whenever I go to the compound. My every actions and moves are scrutinized and I can't ruin my chances of seeing Hinata. So…"
"So, you can't come visit me anymore. Is that it?" Tenten looked away and nodded.
"If any Hyuuga were to see you and me talking they would immediately report it Hiashi-sama and I wouldn't be able to set foot in the compound and Hinata needs me and I need her and I really don't want to risk anything."
"Yeah, I completely understand." I said keeping my voice as steady as possible. I had thought that maybe if Tenten was freely able to move between the compound and visit me she could be a messenger and I could communicate to Hinata that way for the time being. But even that seemed out of the question.
"Before you go though, could you tell her that I love her and that I won't give up." Tenten looked at me and I could see this time she was trying to keep in tears.
"I honestly don't think I can. Whenever I'm with Hinata there is always a Hyuuga guard present monitoring us at all times. I'm not allowed in her room and we can only hang out in public areas. I don't think I could relay any message to her from you without jeopardizing-"
"Okay yeah I get it." I moved closer to Tenten and hugged her fiercely knowing it might be the last time in a long time I would see her. I let go of her and moved to the exit. Before I left, I turned back to her and grinned as big as I could.
"Don't worry though! We'll see each other again!" With that final promise, I returned home trying to convince myself that I could live up to the words.
Hinata P.O.V.
My room was a prison and I was the highest level captive the Hyuuga clan had detained. Every inch of the room was a memory of Naruto. He had laid on this bed, he had been in this closet, he had touched these walls, he had made fun of these curtain. Every time I touched anything in the room I felt tears trickle down and couldn't bare to look anymore. I was sick of it. Sick of the hopelessness and depression and I wanted for it to end desperately. When the sickness became too intense, when the emotions seemed so unbearable that I felt as if I would never recover, I would wish silently to myself for it to all go away. I remember distinctly wishing for none of it to have ever happened. If none of it had happened then I would be happy. Empty but happy. I would still be walking out in daylight and shopping with Tenten if I had never met Naruto. In those dark moments, I felt disgusted with myself. My own patheticness nauseated me and I could see my reflection look back in loathing. How could you? I would think to myself. How could you ever even think to wish for a life without him? Don't you remember those moments when you were with him? Were they not the happiest memories of your life? Hadn't you claimed that in those moments with Naruto you had felt more alive than you had felt in all of your life? And you dare wish him away? After all he's given you?
I hated myself because even though I loved Naruto there was a part of me, a small sneaking part, that was cowardly. It wanted the pain to end and it was willing to trade Naruto for peace of mind. It was on one of those nights when I battled with my inner demons that I suddenly felt the need to leave my room. I didn't care if I had to sit in a common area surrounded by the watchful eyes of the Hyuuga guard, I couldn't spend one more second in agony in the prison cell. I grabbed a lavender shawl and draped it around myself before leaving through the door. Immediately a Hyuuga guard followed my path, quietly watching my every movement to make sure I didn't try to escape. Walking down lamp lit halls through the compound, I spotted Neji sitting alone in the very same courtyard in which he had argued with Tenten and I had my first real conversation with Hanabi. I'm not entirely sure what it was that came over me but I suspect the fragile look on his face influenced my decision and I walked towards the man. He looked up as I drew near and motioned for me to sit next to him. He waved away the guard who remained on the spot.
"She is with me is she not? No harm will come to her and she will not leave the compound." The guard had not moved.
"Are you defying a direct order?"
"Neji-san, Hiashi-sama said-"
"I know what my uncle has instructed and he has ordered so on my request. Leave now so I may speak with my cousin and if Hiashi-sama is upset he may come to me." The guard hesitated at first but vanished in the next second.
"That applies to the rest of you as well unless you think that Neji Hyuuga is unable to protect Hinata-sama himself?" Faint rustles were heard through the silence and with a cursory glance with the Byaakugan, I knew we were truly alone.
I waited a few moments before speaking.
"H-How are y-y-your injuries?"
"I am fully healed. Thank you for asking."
"I am g-g-glad to hear it." Silence. The moon was waning and the milky light shined brightly over the garden illuminating the white flowers and trees. It was peaceful and I made a mental note to come out more at night when most of the family was asleep. Neji's words drew me away from my thoughts.
"I am sorry." He said quietly at first. The shock of his words rendered me completely silent. I couldn't think of any response because I genuinely thought I was hallucinating. He continued.
"I apologize for my behavior not just for last week but for all those years I treated you poorly. I blamed you without ever considering that you were also a victim as well suffering as I had. But unlike myself, you were still able to show a silent strength that I never had."
"Ex-Excuse me?" A silent strength? Me? Neji looked seriously at me for a second then turned back to look at the pond.
"You always showed me kindness even when I was at my most foulest. I insulted you, belittled you, betrayed you, and you still cared for me. Even now after, after what I have done, you are still able to sit patiently with me listening to my words even though I do not deserve your sympathy. Even after all you have been through, you are still able to show a level of altruism that I never could and I admittedly envy and appreciate that quality now. I wish I was more compassionate and understanding like you have been."
The words took some time to sink in but before I could react Neji ventured on.
"It is my fault for meddling in your affairs and ultimately placing you in this circumstance. I am truly very sorry." He placed his elbows on his knees and his face in his hands. After sometime he turned to look at me with desperation in his eyes.
"Will you please forgive me for my actions and the cruelty I've shown you all these years?"
I looked away from him and stared into the moon. Neji was right. We were both victims of our birthright and his anger stemmed from the same soil as my loneliness and insecurity. Both were products of our upbringing that blossomed under the meticulous care of constant competition and degradation. How could I continue to hold a grudge against a man who was merely another casualty of the royal system? How could I not forgive someone who had finally seen the error of his ways and truly and desperately longed for forgiveness?
"I will." In a sudden urge, I placed my hand upon Neji's shoulders and looked into his eyes with the same look of sadness and desperation. We sat in silence once more. I pushed forward hoping to continue the conversation.
"The c-clan is excited about y-y-your nearing engagement c-ceremony. Is she n-n-nice, your fiancee?" I heard Neji laugh. But it wasn't a pure and joyful laugh like I had heard during the festival but rather a hollow and bitter one that frightened me. He leaned back and looked at me tragically.
"I would not know. I have never met her though I have heard great things of her beauty." He chuckled sadly.
"Th-Then why?" I was greeted with another pitying smile.
"For our clan. For the sake of our family and out of loyalty I agreed to the marriage to preserve our lineage and forge alliances." I couldn't help myself as the words escaped me. I knew it wasn't my place to say but I couldn't watch Neji make these choices without knowing the truth.
"Tenten is in love with you." Neji immediately tensed up and I saw the smile fade while the sadness remained. I sensed his breathing become quicker and saw him rub his hands together. He looked away from me.
"I know."
"Wh-What? You kn-knew this wh-whole t-time?" Neji turned back to me.
"She is...I suppose I chose to ignore her feelings and, if I am being truthful, my own. Tenten is a very impressive woman with many skills. She is stronger than most of the men I went to academy with and that was why I chose her to be on my team. She was and is beautiful and elegant, performing with all the grace expected of a kunoichi, but also fierce and determined to break all expectations of her. She was a woman fighting in a man's world and I think that was what initially attracted me to her, though I disguised the feeling as purely respect. I liked watching someone try and succeed in changing their outcome. However when I chose Tenten to be on my team, I knew nothing would come of a romantic relationship and was determined to ignore all the signs. I was cold to her but much like you she had always shown me kindness though that came in equal amounts of cheek. You think I did not realize she had written my name on those stupid little boats." He reach into his vest pocket and pulled out two scraps of paper. I reach out for them and upon inspection I saw two names. On one paper was the distinct chicken scratch like handwriting I knew to be Tenten's. It said Neji Hyuuga. The second piece of paper had Tenten's name sprawled across it and my hand shook in realization.
"You k-k-kept it and you wr-wrote her n-name." I said feeling the lump in my throat well up again. I handed the papers back to Neji who carefully tucked them away.
"Can you blame me for being aggravated that day? I was already infuriated with the marriage and resigned to my fate. Imagine the woman that I...she ran away from me and refused to listen to me and all the while I could never tell her how I truly felt. What purpose would my confession serve when the result would only be heartbreak for her? Would it not be best to play the cold villain and feign ignorance towards her feelings?" Neji finished. He had poured so much of his personal life to me and I felt obligated to reciprocate with my own feelings for who else could I tell?
"L-Lately I h-h-have been th-thinking that it m-m-might have been b-b-better if I had n-never met N-Naruto. Do you e-ever wi-wish you hadn't ch-chosen Tenten as a t-t-teammate?" He faced me again but this time with an honest smile, one of which I had never seen the likes of.
"Never. Choosing Tenten was the greatest choice I have ever made. The first actual choice I had made on my own and for myself. I chose something so wonderful and so good that even if I may never be with her, those years I spent with Tenten are enough to make up for my miserable life."
It was my turn to laugh and I could feel the mania in each giggle. I felt the overwhelming helplessness drip from each sound and when I stopped I looked at Neji who seemed concerned.
"We, we both fell in love with orphans with no noble lineage or wealth to their name. Our fate is to never be with the ones we love." I said in full confidence finally allowing the tears to fall. My hands shook and my breathing was sporadic. I felt a breakdown coming and had not realized I had fallen to the floor until Neji grabbed my arm and pulled me back onto the marble bench.
"No. You are wrong." He said softly, patting my back. Bloodshot eyes turned to look at him with skepticism.
"Your...friend is right, Hinata-sama." He pulled his hand away and looked at the moon again. His pale features shone brilliantly in the light and a smile pulled at his lips.
"I thought a lot about what he had said and I think he is correct. There is no such thing as fate. It is just an excuse to give up and accept defeat." Neji suddenly grabbed my hand and I looked straight in his eyes. There was a newfound fire blazing in the opulent eyes.
"You have been strong all these years, stronger than I have ever given you credit for. You are no coward and you are not weak. Hinata-sama, I would not expect you to give up as easily as you are. You should not settle for this kind of future. You should shape your life as you want. If you continue to make the choices you feel are right for you, then I will truly believe mankind can shape its own destiny. Do not give up Hinata-sama and do what makes you happy. At least one of us should." Neji let go of my hand and stood up.
"I will be the first to leave." He bowed and made his way out of the courtyard, leaving me with his words.
My cousin who loathed me for ages was suddenly my biggest supporter. His words rang within my chest. If Neji no longer believed in fate, why should I resign myself to such antiquated philosophies? All of the sadness and disgust I had felt was slowly being replaced with a rousing feeling of determination that seemed as though it would never escape me. He was right. I had endured years of isolation and I deserved this chance at happiness. I earned this and it was only by my own hands could I change my fate.
I went to bed feeling better than I had in weeks.
Naruto P.O.V.
"It's not like that old man!" I shouted to the merchant who was giving me a shifty grin. "I didn't GIVE UP. I'm just giving it some time. I mean I'll wait for years if I have to but there's just nothing that I can do right now."
"Whatever you say Naruto."
"I swear if you keep this up I'm leaving and never coming back!"
"HA! Wouldn't be the first time that's happened would it?" I threw an apple at his head but he caught it before it could land.
"Oh shut up." I said but I gave him a huge smile. A customer had shown up and was rummaging through the apples, occupying apple man's attention. We had been childishly arguing about what I was going to do to get Hinata back. From all the information I had gathered about the Hyuuga compound and from what Tenten told me, I concluded that there was absolutely nothing I could do. At least for the time being. But like every other instance, some opportunity might present itself to see Hinata and when it did I would be ready to pounce. Until then, I would train and eat apples.
I turned my head around to examine the bazaar. The day was hotter than usual and most people had preferred to remain in the tents or within their comfy homes rather than burn under the heat. Very few people were shopping in the daylight and those who were wore shawls around their head or hats to shield from the light. As I scanned crowd, something familiar crossed my eyes.
But it couldn't be.
Perhaps it was because of the light or the nearby stained glass stall but I could have sworn I saw pink hair fly by. Curiosity got the best of me.
"I'll be back." I said to the man before rushing off towards where I had seen the rosy color. When I approached the spot where the pink hair had vanished I looked around for any trace of a familiar face. I only saw unknown faces swim by and sighed to myself. Who was I kidding?
"NARUTO?" I spun around to see where the voice came from. Between the flaps of an apothecary tent, stood the stunning pink haired kunoichi that as of this last year I had only seen in dreams and photos.
"S-Sakura?!" She leapt at me, embracing me in the tightest hug I ever received. I could have sworn a rib or two cracked underneath the pressure. Sakura pulled away and grabbed my face as if to confirm this wasn't some mirage. People around us stared at the commotion.
"Oh my goodness, Naruto what on earth are you doing here?"
"I could ask you the same thing! Last I remember I left you back in the Ruts. What brings you to the Kingdom?"
"Oh god Naruto we have so much to catch up on!" I grabbed her hand and we walked in silent giddy towards a small shop that served mint tea. Sitting underneath a small umbrella, I went to buy two teas and handed Sakura one. She took a sip then charged.
"You freaking MORON!" She suddenly shouted punching me hard in the arm. At first I suspected it wouldn't hurt seeing as Sakura was never known for her strength, but once her fist made contact I felt myself flying back. I was sprawled on the ground, tea all over me, with an expression of horror as I saw her face glare at me. I pushed myself back up rubbing my arm.
"What the fuck was that for?"
"How could you just leave me?" She said lips quivering. I looked at her surprise.
"What are you talking about? I said goodbye!"
"I know but once you left I had no one else. I was all alone while you went off to train."
"Okay fine I'm sorry." I said still massaging my arm. I pointed my finger at her. "That still doesn't explain what you're doing here."
Instantaneously the crocodile tears dried up and Sakura scoffed rolling her eyes as she did so.
"You couldn't possibly expect me to sit around like some kind of damsel in distress while you went off to train, did you?"
"I suppose not." I smiled sheepishly then winced at the pain. She rolled her eyes and pushed my jacket sleeve up to my shoulder. Suddenly her hand glowed blue and she did something to my arm to make the pain go away. All I could do was stare at her dumbfounded. This Sakura, Sakura with the glowing hands and mass strength, was definitely not the same timid girl I had left. She spotted my expression and grinned with pride.
"Once you left I begged Tsunade-sama to train me."
"Tsunade?" This time I got an eyeroll.
"Augh, yes Tsunade. She arrived shortly after you left looking for an apprentice. I was the only one to pass all of her tests and she quickly took me under her wing." She said standing up to show off the new symbol on her jacket. Taking a step back I looked at Sakura more carefully. She still had short hair but it wasn't as short as it used to be. Her pink hair was shoulder length and was held back by the iconic Konoha leaf head plate. She grew a few inches taller and though I would never say this out loud, filled out her clothes in a way that I could see would be appealing to most guys that weren't me since I had a girlfriend that I loved. But more importantly, there were definitely toned muscles hiding underneath the mid length sleeves and a tan which were all evidence of rigorous training.
"Tsunade-sama is the granddaughter of the First Hokage and the mastermind behind the medical ninja unit. That's what I'm training as. If I'm a medic then I can be there right up with you and…Sasuke. I can finally support you two instead of being such a burden." The conversation fell silent as I grasped her words. She pushed a strand of pink hair back and sighed.
"You're not the only one working hard to find him you know." After taking a sip of tea, Sakura grabbed my hand. "I want to be there with you and Kakashi-sensei. I want to bring him back too." Quick to change the subject, I pulled my hand away and pressed on in a different direction.
"Why the fuck can you suddenly break bones with just one hit?" Sakura thankfully took this route in conversation. She smirked as she took another slow sip of tea.
"I can break mountains with just my pinky." I sputtered.
"WHAT?" Sakura plowed through stories of her training, allowing me to interject here and there. For an hour we swapped different training stories and talked about how crazy both of our mentors were. We laughed and spoke like old friends, as if nothing had changed, as if I had never left. Finally, Sakura was able to get to the reason why she was in the Kingdom.
"Tsunade-sama is not only a skilled medic but she's also the royal medical consultant for all the royal families. She meets with every family and accesses their needs. Tsunade-sama wanted me with her so that I would get first hand experience seeing as I am her prodigy. I'm going with her tomorrow to meet all the heads of the various royal clans." My heart stopped. I interrupted her before she continued.
"Which families?"
Sakura stared at me in surprise. My voice must have been more demanding than I had meant it to sound.
"Uh...well let's see. There's the Akimichi clan, and the Nara, then the Inuzuka, and Aburame, and of course the Hyuuga, and-"
"The HYUUGA?"
"Yeah...the Hyuuga will be there. But why-?"
"Will it just be the head of the clan or the entire clan?" Sakura continued to give me a puzzled look.
"Well it'll be the main people I guess like the head and the heirs mostly." I grabbed Sakura's hand.
"The Hyuuga heirs will be there?!" She pulled back in surprise.
"Naruto what the hell is going on?!" Sakura barked and I could feel the anger rising. I forgot how quick to attack she was. Moving back, I grinned.
"Boy do I have a story for you."
I spent the better portion of the afternoon and evening telling Sakura every single detail about my life these last 7 months focusing primarily on my relationship with Hinata. Sakura was the perfect audience, gasping at all the appropriate moments, cheering me on, asking relevant questions when I had forgotten an important detail. The sun was slowly creeping away and the stalls were closing up by the time my story had ended. She sat across from me, tears in her eyes.
"Oh come on! Don't cry." I said. Sakura wiped her eyes.
"I'm just so sorry for you Naruto. I mean I can't imagine..." I was touched by her response but I didn't have time to comfort her. It was getting late and Jiraiya was expecting me home soon.
"Look Sakura I don't have much time. I have to get back soon." Sakura nodded looking around in surprise.
"Oh my god is it already night?"
"Yeah but before I go I need you to relay a message to Hinata. Can you do that?" She nodded.
I hope that all of the character development and emotion in this chapter makes up just a little bit for the delay. I hope to update a new chapter by the end of the week (fingers crossed).
I would be incredibly honored if you could follow, fave, and most importantly review this chapter so I know you like the content and direction that the story is going. And if you don't, let me know that too! I'm personally very excited for Sakura's involvement in everything!
Once again, HAPPY NEW YEAR 2016 ~!
-AC