Chapter 10.
Konoha Memorial Stone was one of the best places for Kakashi to ponder, and one of the few places that still provided him with the comfort of not being disturbed. The site was sacred among villagers, and even shinobi who had a lot of claims to bring against the Copy Nin restrained from doing so in front of the monument. Not to say that it was the only reason he spent so much time here, but it was a nice bonus.
Kakashi lazily stood in front of the polished stone, arranging the jumbling thoughts in his head. Plans, village affairs, his own personal life – it all created a continuous stream of problems that needed to be dealt with. He being him, a fair amount of these problems, particularly the personal ones, were systematically set aside in favor of more pressing needs. It is only on days like these was he able to finally address such issues. And currently, at the forefront of his somewhat relieved mind was only one thing.
It hasn't been more than a couple months since he got to know Hinata, yet thoughts of his wife constantly kept creeping back whenever his mind was vacant. The oddest things started to remind him of her at the oddest of times. Now, this was by no means an unpleasant experience, just something Kakashi wasn't used to. Truthfully, he wouldn've paid it much mind if not for the fact that his wife herself started to notice his distractedness. Hinata, being her caring self, had immediately sprung to his aid, suggesting all kinds of things to help him relax from all the stress she assumed he'd been suffering from.
He even tried meditating, if only to appease his wife, but it didn't sit with him right. It felt boring and if not, his thoughts tended to stray towards topics he wasn't particularly proud of entertaining. Topics he specifically came here to avoid. It was disturbingly easy for his mind to conjure various... imagery involving his wife, the fact he did not like one bit. Despite Hinata's preference of modest attire, it was still very obvious that she was a grown woman. Even his beloved Icha Icha barely helped to contain the growing desire. He was no stranger to sexual urges, but he'd thought he left all that behind with his puberty.
To think that things were going so well between him and Hinata. Over the weeks after their, dare he say triumphant dinner at Ichiraku's, Kakashi could at least say that they've became good friends. He genuinely enjoyed spending time with her, be it training or just plain talking or even sitting there in comfortable silence. She seemed to feel the same, since she's opened up to him more, readily sharing her worries and thoughts without any urging from his part. He didn't want to ruin their relationship by doing something stupid. Not to mention that he did not want to be heading in the direction that could ultimately lead nowhere. He knew himself; it wasn't just lust. And he knew better than to fall for a woman who'd been so obviously pining after his student.
"Great," he muttered, lifting his gaze up towards the sky, heeding the advice he so liked to give to any troubled a soul. Evening winter sky was unusually clear, with most of the clouds caking lazily at the horizon. The dusk colored the outermost puffs of billow a light shade of lavender, everything else beyond being bright orange.
He came here to clear his mind of things but ended up contemplating the same thoughts that he was so desperately escaping from. Hinata, her love for Naruto, his crush on Hinata… Funny how his brain could effortlessly process information Obito's Sharingan provided to him without being overwhelmed, but a mere scrutiny of his own emotions was enough to give him a headache. So what if she was married to him? Everybody knew it wasn't for love; Hyuga wanting a powerful ally and Danzou wanting Hyugas to comply. Nobody bothered to ask what Hinata wanted during all of that. He promised himself at day one that he will annul the affair once the 'Danzou business' is over. Holding onto their marriage just to have Hinata to himself would be horribly selfish, albeit sickeningly tempting.
What chance did he have, anyway? Everyone knew she is head over heels for Naruto. And much to his selfish regret, they would make a great pair in his opinion. They would have two kids, one boy and one girl – a perfect combination. They would probably name the boy Furuto, while the girl would be Haruko or something in that fashion. Most importantly, though, they would be happy. Kakashi did not know any woman kinder than Hinata and any man better than Naruto. His own virtues paled compared to theirs, and could anyone blame him for feeling insecure?
"Great."
He found himself uttering that particular word once again. Because no matter how apprehensive he was or how compatible he believed Hinata and Naruto to be, he still held a silly hope that she'd stay with him; that he'd somehow convince her to choose him. He did not know how exactly, but he wasn't the great Copy Ninja, Konoha's prodigy for nothing. He'd read any book and bribe any person if only to gain some much-needed help.
Heck, he would even stoop so low as to ask Hanabi for advice. Knowing that the brat will not help him without asking something in return, not to mention that she was more likely to sabotage his attempts rather than aid in them. He shuddered at the thought of what the little devil might ask for her services. He suddenly regretted bringing her to his negotiations with Suna. The girl was astute like that, catching concepts on the fly. Hopefully she'll have enough decency not to use his teachings against him.
Jokes aside, Kakashi felt like a bastard for thinking about pursuing Hinata. He did not want to deny her happiness, or Naruto for that matter. If anyone deserved to be happy, it was his knucklehead of a student.
Then why couldn't he drop those selfish feelings?
Despite this guilt gnawing at him, he knew there was no way in hell for him to give up now. He's gone too far. If only he noticed these feelings earlier, he could've suppressed them and nipped it in the bud before it consumed him. Instead, it happened so fast that he could barely even acknowledge anything, until it hit him like an anvil. How could this gentle woman invade his soul so aggressively and take over his thoughts and emotions? No, Kakashi thought, he will not, could not, give up now. His shinobi instincts never betrayed him so far, and right now they told him either he fights and come what may, or he surrenders and regrets it for the rest of his life.
Great, now he thought it some kind of a battle.
"Just great," he sighed, turning around and leaving the Memorial to the approaching night. He snorted, thinking on how weird he might have looked if anyone watched him: standing there, muttering to himself...
He came here to clear his mind and relax, but instead got a headache and a whole lot of determination.
Despite his newfound resolve, Kakashi will put its realization away for now. He had far more important matters to take care of. Hageshi Hikohiro, for instance. He'd promised Hiashi that he'll deal with the man. Seeing as the only thing keeping him from jail was Danzou's protection, Kakashi expected Hageshi to be prosecuted long ago. Danzou, however, was not in a hurry to depose of the bastard.
Kakashi had to personally request Hageshi's prosecution from his Hokage. Now that it was granted, Copy Nin had began religiously studying his target. Everything, from the people Hageshi interacted with, to the places and towns he frequented; his loyal pack of ninken had made a lot of work during these past days. He himself spent the last couple of nights digging up everything concerning the man's crimes and had to oversee the whole process, including the investigations. One glance at his case file, and Kakashi was sure there was no way for the man to escape justice. Bribery, smuggling, human trafficking, contract killing – it all was there. Of course, they had to modify the case to exclude all ties to Konoha and Danzou specifically. Just reading the file made Kakashi feel dirty, let alone tampering with it. Kakashi recalled his time in ANBU, at least all the atrocities they committed were in the interests of Konoha. They never stooped as low as Hageshi. Kakashi remembered every innocent who had to suffer by his hand, and he still woke in the middle of the night from nightmares sometimes. Hageshi's actions were inexcusable, and from what he could tell the man did not give a damn. Such people simply could not be allowed to live in his village.
Aside from the legal proceedings, Copy Nin had the court itself to worry about. It was set for tomorrow, and Kakashi fully intended to make the event as safe for others as possible. He frowned, remembering his Hokage's orders this morning. At first, everything was ready for a quiet, closed affair. Danzou, of course, had to make a spectacle of this, declaring the proceedings to be public. In a sense it was good, since people could attend the procedure and attest to its legitimacy, but not in this case and at such a tumultuous time. Seeing as Danzou himself was going to be present, it was bound to turn into a disaster. He had to ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible during the trial, and that was exactly what he was going to think on when he comes back to his study.
Upon finally entering the safety of his home Kakashi quickly retreated to his sanctuary. Although during the past days it had somewhat transformed, reflecting his wife's constant presence, like all the other rooms in the house. A trinket here and there, a new book on the reading table every now and then, Hinata's touch was subtle but it changed things up quite significantly. Everything felt tidier, warmer. Even the curtains in the study hung neater, in a perfect order that he himself would have never bothered to arrange.
Hinata constantly visited, be it to borrow a book from the library or bring him tea. They chatted there as well, discussing Hyuga matters, ninja arts or other things. More often than not, Kakashi just did his work while Hinata sat nearby in her armchair at the corner, quietly reading a book. Kakashi enjoyed those bonding sessions with his wife, even though many of them passed in complete silence. It was as if Hinata just simply wanted to be with him as much as she could. The thought never failed to warm Kakashi's heart and give him hope. Perhaps with enough time, their closeness could grow even more.
The Jounin Commander felt the smile already tug at his lips as his wife opened the door, bringing in tea and snacks. The drink was freshly brewed, and the fruits were cutely chopped and arranged perfectly on the plate. He never ceased to marvel at her inhuman efficiency. Afterall, she managed to keep the house in impeccable order, trained as hard as him and all the while took care of his and her little sister's petty problems. He honestly started to feel a little useless when all the chores were completed before he even remembered that they needed to be done.
"Don't you have anything better to do?"
Despite his callous choice of words, the tone with which her husband said them clearly reflected his feelings to be quite the opposite. She had long used to Kakashi's slight social ineptitude and only smiled, shaking her head in negative. She took her place opposite of him, handing him his cup.
Confirming that Hinata really did wish to spend her time on him, Kakashi gratefully accepted the proffered drink, blowing on it carefully.
"How was your day today?" she asked the usual question.
Kakashi smiled. He could definitely get used to this.
"Fine," he said. "Not sure I could say the same about tomorrow."
Hinata furrowed her brows in a worried frown. Kakashi couldn't help but find the expression adorable.
"Is it about the trial?" she asked.
"Yeah. Danzou wants to attend, to show everyone his just leadership."
"But you think it will only provoke the others," Hinata finished, accompanied by a heavy sigh from Kakashi. "I'm sure everything will be fine," she reassured softly.
"I hope you are right."
Kakashi continued to brood, the lines of worry still present on the visible part of his face. That was why she insisted on doing all the chores in the house, occasionally recruiting Hanabi for the job. Seeing how Kakashi got enough things to worry about as it is, the least she could do was lift some pressure from his shoulders. That being said, Hinata gently put her hand on his, earning a surprised glance from her husband.
"I can go with you," she declared. "I-I mean everything is easier when there is someone to support you, right? Not like you need any help, but I thought if you are going to speak during the trial…"
Kakashi looked lost for a moment before chuckling lightly, stopping her babbling.
"What?" Hinata asked, embarrassed.
Kakashi's bemused expression did not help her case. She felt like an idiot. What was she suggesting? Moral support? It's not like Kakashi was one of the victims harmed by Hageshi and required emotional support.
"Nothing," Kakashi replied, tugging down his mask to take a sip of his tea. "You are just too nice sometimes," she heard him saying behind the cup.
"What do you mean?"
Kakashi's words made Hinata blush. The way he smiled at her, so warm and honest. The affection in his eyes quickly gave way to mischief, before he began talking.
"No wonder Hanabi-chan is so sissy. The way you spoil her so much," Kakashi explained, already feeling lighter and more relaxed.
"Hey," she said, lightly hitting his arm. "I do not spoil Hanabi! If anyone is spoilt then it's you, mister 'I want miso soup with eggplants every day'!"
Hinata smiled slyly. Kakashi's expression, however, was unreadable. This confused the woman. He kept staring at her with a weird look, like he was contemplating something.
"You surprise me every day," was all he said, his tone astonished.
Hinata laughed. Was her playfulness really that shocking to him? Well, she decided, if they were going to be friends, she'd have to rectify that.
"That's what happens when you get to know a person better. You always find something new about them."
"Well, in that case I hope I also surprise you sometimes," Kakashi said, eyes crinkling in a familiar merry expression. Hinata didn't fail to catch a hopeful tone in his voice.
"Of course you do!" Hinata almost snorted. "I learn something new about you every day. And I like it. Getting to know you," she finished shyly, a smile returning back on her face.
Kakashi's own only seemed to stretch wider.
"I would like to straighten out one more thing," he was grinning fully now. "Just what do you have against miso with eggplants, hm?" he said with false accusation, making Hinata giggle.
They spent the rest of the evening together. Hinata finally reading Icha Icha as she'd promised, Kakashi working. Occasionally, he'd ask her for advice, which she was all too happy to provide. More often, however, he kept pestering her about her progress on the book. She entertained throwing the thing at him if he asked whether she reached chapter 26 one more time.
She would've lied though, if she said that she didn't enjoy it.
The day of the trial arrived and everyone, including Hageshi himself were seated in the courtroom. Usually, Konoha trials are conducted following a specific protocol, with judges and juries whose job was to provide an impartial and just verdict concurrent with the law. However, in cases where Konoha's integrity as a village was affected or when the matter involved shinobi, Hokage and Jounin Council decided everything. It is done quietly, with the Council and Hokage talking things through and agreeing upon a punishment. It wasn't supposed to be a public proceeding.
Kakashi overlooked the court from his position at a judge panel. As Jounin Commander, he was the chairman and representative of the council. The other members of the board included the Hokage himself, and former councilmen Homura and Koharu. Even though the two didn't retire formally, they still kept to their word, no longer exerting any administrative power. As such, Danzou deemed it appropriate to allow them to participate. It wouldn't change anything, as Kakashi was sure they hated Hageshi's guts as much as anyone.
The Jounin Council, shockingly, had unanimously refused to take part in the proceedings, allowing Kakashi to speak for them. He suspected Hiashi and others had already made all the agreements behind his back, and decided that they could trust him to make the right choice this time.
He cast a careful glance at the people gathered. There were many, shinobi and civilian alike. His eyes stopped when they landed on a familiar spot of indigo hair. Hinata was there, as she'd promised.
Kakashi was surprised by how much he cared that she came. He was both anxious and relieved. On one hand, it was nice to know that she cared; on the other, if things went south, he'd have to worry about her as well. With the tensions building up between civilians and shinobi it was dangerous to be here. Kakashi knew that his wife was more than capable of taking care of herself, but he couldn't help the concern rising in his head.
Fortunately, he'd taken additional precautions. After all, Kakashi who was currently at the judicial panel was a clone. Three other of his clones were present at various places amongst the sitting crowd, disguised, while the real him would take place somewhere closer to Hinata. He'd done the same trick the day of the explosion at Kurenai's former apartment and it worked well enough.
Besides, if there was even a slightest chance that things don't go as planned, he'll be ready to act, much like he did back then after the explosion.
He took a seat at the end of a row, right near his wife, who in turn situated herself beside Hanabi. Evidently, the girl decided to come as well, probably interested to observe how justice was done in Konoha. He figured Hiashi would approve of Hanabi learning even in such a situation. Well, she'd at least get to spend time with her sister. What was about to happen was more of a farce than justice. Merely Danzou getting rid of a tool that's no longer useful to him. If they were truly being just, they'd send themselves to prison along with Hageshi…
"When are they gonna start?" Hanabi asked her sister, loud enough for Kakashi to hear.
He was glad he took a seat so close to the pair, that way he could easily eavesdrop. Even if they spoke in whispers, his hearing was good enough to hear them.
It seemed Hinata did not need to respond, as their Hokage materialized at the center of the panel, signaling for the trial to begin. Danzou tried to look as righteous as possible, practically emanating a picture of a just ruler. His councilmen counterparts were less concerned about appearances, assuming their regular serious scowls. Kakashi's clone looked almost kind in comparison. Sitting amidst the audience, the real he nodded in approval at his clone's professional but approachable demeanor. He did not want to give off mixed signals, his reputation, and by connection, Konoha shinobi reputation as a whole would be affected by how he conducted himself during the trial. Everything must run smoothly, that much was clear to the masked man. Danzou lifted a hand, ceasing all the talk in the courtroom. With a leer half-smile, he declared the trial officially begun, no doubt enjoying his authority over everyone.
Two hours have passed, and the outcome of this trial was pretty much set for everyone. Hageshi's shoulders slumped, the criminal did not hold any illusions regarding his future. He was going to get sentenced for life in the Konoha Strict Correctional Facility, and that's if he was lucky. Good riddance, Kakashi thought, recalling the materials of his case. Hiashi Hyuga ought to start appreciating his son-in-law, Copy Nin thought smugly.
Hageshi had been nonchalant the whole time before the trial, fully believing that Danzou would bail him out. His shortsightedness prevented him from understanding that Danzou's protection could be retracted as easily as it was bestowed. It seemed now he'd finally realized the gravity of his situation. Alas, nothing could help him now. Danzou wouldn't save him even if he changed his mind; his reputation was at stake after all.
Kakashi and all the others watched with disgust as Hageshi was being led away by guards. The man squirmed and wriggled in a futile protest. He seemed to lose his composure completely, spouting excuses and pleading for mercy.
"Pathetic," he heard Hanabi say, and he completely agreed.
Kakashi averted his eyes from the hysterical convict, looking at Hinata. What he saw surprised him once again. Instead of understandable disgust, or even satisfaction, he saw an expression of pity. She pitied that depraved pile of shit! True, it was a pitiful sight, but Kakashi couldn't think that pity would be the predominant expression on anybody's face regarding Hageshi Hikohiro. Hatred was more expected. A soft smile graced his lips, only his wife could find it in herself to feel more pity than anger towards the most despicable of people.
It seemed he was staring for a bit too long, as Hinata turned and caught his eyes. She smiled politely.
"It seems the trial is over," she said, trying to make small talk.
"Indeed," he managed a reply, overcoming his surprise at her unexpected friendliness.
He was disguised after all, so he should seem like a total stranger, and yet she'd strike up a conversation with him. For a moment he thought she saw through his Henge somehow, but it was generally impossible to see through, as an experienced ninja such as himself would make a perfect, undetectable disguise.
"I heard there is a press conference planned after the trial," she continued, keeping up the conversation.
"Sort of."
There was indeed something of sorts planned. In fact, it was already starting, with people slowly clearing the courtroom, leaving mostly the press for their event. One journalist had already presented the first question to clone-Kakashi. As soon as he answered, another hand rose up. After a few questions, people got bolder, encouraged by Kakashi's approachable attitude. Consequently, he received the most questions. Real Kakashi studied Danzou's expression intently. The man was scowling, a stark contrast to his appearance during the trial. Obviously, he did not take Kakashi's apparent popularity with press lightly. He was enduring being ignored so far, but Kakashi knew that what Danzou hated the most was to be in someone's shadow. Rather ironic, considering the meaning of the title of Hokage.
After some time, real Kakashi got bored, the questions were uninteresting and typical. Nobody dared ask any questions that might lead to Hokage getting exposed for involvement in Hageshi's crimes. He made sure the press "behaved themselves", as Danzou put it, before the trial even started. People were asking the most harmless of questions, as if rehearsed.
'Good,' he noted, not wanting any incidents now, when the hardest part was already behind. Perhaps today would be a good day for his reputation, after all. He continued to listen, but his attention was mostly turned to his wife. She had a funny look on her face, eyes gleaming with an unfamiliar expression. He could only guess what exactly happening at the front could have warranted such a look from Hinata. Kakashi didn't get to muse on it more as a familiar voice suddenly echoed in the courtroom.
"I was asking why everyone is being so scared!"
Everyone's eyes were immediately on the brunette that asked the question.
"I'm afraid I do not understand," clone-Kakashi replied.
Kakashi was relieved his clone could manage to gather his wits. Normally, a journalist must introduce themselves before asking a question, but if Kakashi demanded Tenten to tell her name she could have trouble later on. Thus, his clone had quickly redirected the conversation from her to him.
"Oh, please," the woman drawled, "You, of all people, should know perfectly well. Why are the reporters not asking real questions?" Tenten's voice was accusatory, the girl standing strong by her words. She looked everyone around her in the eyes. "I was asking you!" she yelled. "Why are you tucking your tails between your legs now, hm? Does anybody here–"
"I'll ask a question," Kakashi, the real Kakashi, interrupted, standing up and tumbling his chair down on the floor behind him with a loud bang. Hinata and Hanabi beside looked up at him from their seats with a startle. The situation was quickly getting out of hand. He had to act immediately if he wanted to prevent any casualties. Hence, his move with the chair. Now that he'd gotten everybody's attention, he fixed Tenten with a glare, continuing, "Why won't you shut up?"
Numerous gasps could be heard around them in the courtroom. Hushed muttering erupted throughout, no doubt people expected a scene to unfold. What crazy person would attract such attention from Kakashi and the Hokage to himself? Danzou was looking at him, sharp eyes assessing the situation, waiting. Kakashi had to make sure he remained that way. He knew that several dozen Root members were stationed everywhere in the building. They had sensors with them, but Kakashi wasn't bothered, confident in his masking abilities. What concerned him was the fact that all these shinobi were ready for Hokage's signal, a flick of his wrist and they would spring into action. Whenever these guys were involved, beatings and chaos always ensued, ultimately resulting in a number of people ending up in jail. Kakashi had to stop Root from acting, and the only way to do that was to act first himself. It was a delicate situation: draw too much attention and Danzou will certainly summon Root; too little and somebody else will surely be the cause of it.
Like Tenten, for instance.
Speaking of which, the young ninja was fuming. She did not take lightly to being interrupted and getting insulted on top of it.
"Why are you attacking me?!" she snarled indignantly. "I'm trying to–"
Once again, she didn't get to finish as Kakashi cut her off.
"I don't care what you are trying to do!" he growled, making sure to sound and look as aggravated as possible. "You are just wasting my time!"
"If she was wasting your time, perhaps you should've left instead of making a scene? Attendance is not compulsory after all." This time it was clone-Kakashi's turn to speak. He needed to redirect the real Kakashi's anger on himself.
"Oh, do shut up!" disguised Kakashi spat at his clone, his plan already being initiated. In the corner of his eye he spied the journalists' anticipating expressions. No doubt they expected Kakashi Hatake to resort to violence once again. His previous actions in similar situations were infamous for that, after all. If things go as intended, nobody will get hurt.
His clone, to his credit, acted out his part perfectly. Anger bubbled up within him, face contorting in a heated scowl. His clone looked at Danzou, as if asking for permission. Danzou nodded, seemingly content with observing for the time being. Getting his clue, the clone-Kakashi leaped from his seat at the judge panel and in the blink of an eye landed in front of his real disguised self. His clone then proceeded to land a heavy punch on Kakashi's stomach, making Hanabi beside them jump. Real Kakashi doubled over in pain, falling on his knees. Clone-Kakashi then grabbed his head and shoved his knee on to his face. Kakashi's disguised form could not keep blood from gushing down his nose a result of the impact. He fell on the floor, clutching his bleeding nose and squirming in pain as realistically as possible.
Clone-Kakashi looked around, noting everyone's stunned expressions. Nobody would even dare to make a sound, and that was exactly what he needed. He specifically avoided turning his gaze on Hinata for fear of her reaction. If he had though, he would've noticed the recognition in both Hinata and Hanabi's eyes. After all, they were one of the few who knew of his tactic of beating himself in disguise.
Danzou was the one who interested Copy Nin the most at the moment. Old crone just smirked, there was his opportunity. He knocked loudly on the floor with his cane. Once he got everyone's attention, he spoke.
"Now, Kakashi, it was too brash of you, don't you think?" he gave a crooked smile. "I expected better from you."
Judging by the feigned disappointment in his voice, Danzou decided to play a benevolent ruler. All the better for Kakashi. That way the trouble would surely be averted. All the Root around finally pacified by their master's lack of reaction.
"Get that man medical help. I think we had enough excitement for the day." With those words Danzou turned to leave, no longer interested in further happenings.
The part about getting him medical help was clearly said for the sake of formality, as no one seemed to be coming to his aid. Once again, he was reminded of a stark contrast between Danzou and Sandaime. Hiruzen Sarutobi would stop to help a child with a scraped knee, while the man who bore the title of current Hokage left an injured man in the courtroom to his own devices. He could be dying, and the man would not bat an eyelash.
Danzou's second suggestion, however, was to be taken as an order. Everyone snapped back, standing up and hurrying towards the exit. The beating they witnessed shocking even Tenten into submission. Crowd instinct was a powerful phenomenon. It truly could make or break the public order.
Conflict avoided. Mission accomplished.
Kakashi felt the blood continue to trickle from his nose. He did not break it, but he likely busted his upper lip, familiar with the injury and how it can also cause a nosebleed. He felt two pairs of hands picking him up. To his mortification, his helpers were none other than the Hyuga sisters.
"Are you alright," Hinata asked with compassion. "Let me see your face."
He obliged, more due to his shock than the actual want to heal his injuries. His clone made sure to make it look dramatic, when in truth it was but a minor wound.
Talk about maintaining a reputation, he thought ruefully. How in the world was he going to clear his name after all those stunts he's pulled?
"Thanks," he croaked, touching his face and making sure he listened to what she had to say about his injury. He still wasn't sure if they realized it was Kakashi they were speaking to under this disguise.
"Do you want to go home first?" he heard Hanabi ask. She gave him a meaningful look, clearing any doubts he had about them knowing who he was.
He nodded understandigly. "I'll see you there."
With that promise, he left the building without any further words of acknowledgement for the Hyuga sisters. No doubt Hanabi was complaining about how rude he was being. His clones have long since gone, making Hinata and Hanabi the last people to leave the courtroom. What happened today was sure to cement his reputation of a bad guy in Konoha. He just hoped that it won't affect Hinata and Hanabi in any way. With heavy heart, he dispelled his disguise in the privacy of a random alley and ventured going home.
Kakashi sat there for what seemed like hours, contemplating. Worrying. He didn't even know why was he so worried. Did he think they'd hate him for what he did even after Hinata explicitly told him that he was a hero for doing it? He felt his anxiety spike when he heard the sound of the front door opening and turned to see his wife and her sister enter. Surprisingly, it was barely time for dinner, as the clock on the wall showed ten past six. He wondered if it was a good sign that they came so early. Immediately, the younger Hyuga sent him a glare, as if telling him not to get his hopes up. Not discouraged enough to follow the warning, Kakashi spoke.
"Welcome back, Hinata, Hanabi-chan."
Instead of the silence he anticipated, Hinata's response was to greet him back, albeit a little less enthusiastic.
"Hello," she said, to Hanabi's utter disbelief.
The look she sent him was one that promised further discussion. It seemed once again his wife had given him the benefit of the doubt. Kakashi couldn't help the hope that bubbled within. He quietly followed the two inside, sitting at the table. He was about to start talking when Hinata went to the kitchen, intent to serve food first and talk later.
Kakashi and Hanabi sat in silence, only the sounds of Hinata's preparations interrupting it. After some time, he felt like he needed to say something. Hanabi was his friend too, so he should explain himself. However, the girl had no need for his excuses, it seemed.
"You don't need to explain," she said, loud enough to be heard from the kitchen.
Kakashi was surprised. He thought she'd be the first to jump him with accusations, but judging from her expression, Hanabi understood, or at least thought that she understood.
"I am not stupid. It was pretty obvious that girl was about to cause trouble," she continued, referring to Tenten. "Did you have to beat yourself so badly?"
He was astounded by Hanabi's shrewdness. Not only did she make a correct observation about Tenten causing potential danger to herself and others, but was also able to deduce a right conclusion from his actions. Hiashi certainly didn't make a poor choice in appointing her as his successor. Hinata would obviously do her best, and be a kind ruler, but he felt like her excessive empathy would prevent her from taking decisive action. She certainly would suffer as a result of guilt if she were to commit a tough decision. Hanabi, in comparison, was a perfect balance between benevolence and harshness, she would be a just but strict leader, having enough malice to eliminate her enemies and force her will upon her subordinates if need be. There was also the matter of the younger Hyuga simply being better suited to tolerate all the scheming and manipulation associated with politics and wield it to her and her clan's benefit. Kakashi did not know if Hiashi made a similar conclusion when he made Hanabi heiress, but it was no excuse to disown his own daughter. He wondered if there were other factors at play there. Things that only Hiashi was privy to. The man did not seem unreasonable, and there was no good reason politically to disown your own daughter. He would've pondered on it more, but a sound of someone clearing their throat brought him back to reality. He turned to see that the table had been already set, Hanabi gestured towards Hinata with her eyes.
"I needed something sudden, something unexpected to divert Danzou's attention," Kakashi shrugged. "It had to look real, so…"
All this time spent advising Danzou was paying off. He spent hours listening and talking to the man, all the while closely observing his habits and behavior. By now Kakashi could confidently claim that he knew Danzou better than anyone. Anyone living anyway. And if he knew him as well as he thought he did, then Tenten was safe. It was highly unlikely that she was in any trouble for speaking against Hokage, since Kakashi managed to interrupt her in time, before she could say anything truly damaging.
"I get it, but couldn't you knock out that girl instead?" Hanabi asked, much to Hinata's shock.
"Tenten is a capable ninja, and I do not possess super speed. If I were to attack her instead she'd fight back and then..." Kakashi explained. "Unfortunately, that was the only sure way to shock people into submission." He didn't think it was going to work any more, though. Everyone had their limits, and soon such a stunt from him won't be able to scare the citizens.
"You still don't understand why we are mad at you?" Hanabi asked, not surprised one bit at his denseness.
"You are mad at me?" Kakashi replied, confused. He thought they already knew it was him back at the trial. Were his worries not baseless after all?
"Neesan, tell him," Hanabi turned to her sister, crossing her arms.
"Well," Hinata stumbled, "not exactly mad but… Could you… stop doing that?"
Hanabi rolled her eyes. Those two honestly deserved each other, she thought, watching how the two people who were supposed to be adults in this room squirmed timidly around each other.
"She means could you stop beating the crap out of yourself everytime someone starts a fuss," Hanabi finally supplied, having enough of the pair's childish antics. She could practically see the question roll off of Gray-hair's tongue when she already answered it. "There are people who worry about you, you know?"
Hanabi's words surprised the Copy Nin. He looked at his wife, noticing how she was nodding fiercely. So they didn't want him to harm himself; he understood now.
"Alright," he nodded as well. "It's not like I enjoy beating myself up."
"Thankfully," was Hanabi's snarky comment. Honestly, it wasn't such a good idea anyway. There had to be better ways to maintain public order than through fear.
It was Kakashi's turn to roll his eyes now.
"So, you think Tenten is going to be okay?" Hinata was obviously concerned for her friend now that they have established that Kakashi will no longer employ his ridiculous tactic of self-harming.
"I am sure."
What can happen to her if she keeps up that attitude, however, was a different story. As if reading his mind, Hinata spoke up.
"I'll make sure to tell her not to do anything rash."
"Yeah, I can't believe she can be so dumb! What in the world possessed her to speak against Hokage like that?" Hanabi, despite her brash personality seemed to know well when to keep her mouth shut. Kakashi guessed he had to thank Hiashi Hyuga's influence for that.
"Hanabi!" exclaimed Hinata. "I'd appreciate if you didn't badmouth my friends all the time" she scolded her little sister, who just huffed in response.
"Not my fault that you have dumb friends."
"Now, Hanabi-chan, Hinata is right. Tenten is not stupid," agreed Kakashi sagely.
Hinata smiled at him, glad that her sister had a male figure who could calmly explain rather than yell and reprimand. Hanabi was hot headed when she could afford it, and she liked to argue. Even she had trouble reasoning with her sister sometimes. Kakashi had a way with words that never made him sound patronizing. Somehow, he managed to gain her sister's respect. She hoped his breezy yet pragmatic personality would rub off on Hanabi.
Until she heard him finish, that is. "But what she did was stupid."
It looked like Hanabi's cheekiness will most likely rub off on Kakashi first. Hinata sighed, amused. Here she thought that Kakashi will be a positive influence, but it seemed the two were more likely to band together against her. She looked at her husband's contented expression and her sister's smug one. For now, she decided she'd let it slide. She smiled devilishly inside. 'Later,' she told herself, 'I'll show them proper upbringing.'
For now, she was content to let them share this small victory. The two were agreeing on something for once. Kakashi didn't seem to be determined to annoy Hanabi much tonight, which Hinata was thankful for. So help her if they start causing trouble again, like their food fight last week. They spent the whole evening cleaning the house. Originally, she wasn't supposed to do any work since it was their punishment for causing the mess, but eventually she ended up joining them anyway. They grumbled and whined a lot, but their demeanor changed completely after she started helping them out. They started working as if they were being whipped. Guilt, she realized, was a powerful weapon. Kakashi and Hanabi were more alike than they thought.
A sudden realization came to her. Lately, she was noticing how content she was to simply sit with those two troublemakers and listen them bicker and tease. She could understand why she felt comfortable around her sister, that was a given. And being so genial with Kakashi felt natural at this point. She needed years to establish friendship with her teammates, and yet here she was smiling and laughing and teasing with Kakashi, after barely eight weeks of knowing him.
Kakashi, who seemed so unapproachable and distant when she was a kid. That was a thing with distant and unapproachable, she thought – they are lonely. She wondered if anyone else aside from his teammates has bothered to approach the man. Or perhaps it was only her and her sister who he allowed to get close? Or was it that he needed to allow himself to care about someone and befriend them first? Hinata's heart clenched when she thought about a kind and loyal person like Kakashi being afraid to get close to anybody. What demons must a man possess to build such a solid wall around himself?
"Are you alright?" she heard his concerned voice. Apparently, her heavy thoughts didn't get unnoticed by her husband.
"I'm okay," she tried to smile, banishing those depressing thoughts.
No need to get so sad. He'd opened up to them, right? Then that meant he could open up to everyone else, and they would see him for a wonderful person he really was.
"You do remember what I said, don't you?" he asked playfully, glad to see her smile was back.
Of course, she remembered. That was a first time her husband told her he cared. 'Your concerns are not unimportatnt to me. Nor I consider your opinions to be of no consequence.' She could expect her friends to say something like that, but never someone like Kakashi. That night convinced her that the man before her was worth to give a chance. All she hoped was that he accepted it.
She blushed upon realization of the double meaning of her thoughts. All her mind could supply now was that she could give him a chance romantically, seeing as he was her husband and they already had an amicable relationship. She felt giddy and unsurprisingly excited as she imagined herself involved with Kakashi, all the positive qualities he had. He was kind, selfless and loyal and so much more. Everytime he smiled Hinata found herself wanting to do the same. Not to mention how handsome Kakashi was…
Her face was becoming progressively redder with her thoughts taking a turn towards uncharted territories. And of course, Kakashi had to notice it, as she felt his ungloved hand on her forehead.
"I-I'm alright," she stammered, too embarrassed by her thoughts. His touch burning despite his hands being cold.
"You are hot," he said, a sliver of concern in his expression.
The way he phrased it caused another wave of heat to rush to her cheeks.
"I'm fine!" she said, a little too loud. "It's probably all the stuffiness in the house. Why don't we go outside?"
"Yeah, we could train!" Hanabi exclaimed.
Hinata could kiss her little sister right there and then for her timely save. Kakashi took her words for it, shrugging and heading towards the door. He waited for them in the corridor until Hanabi ushered him outside declaring a training session.
"Your house sucks! Let's go outside!" the little Hyuga said, practically pushing him out the door.
"I'll have you know this house is a familial property," he proclaimed with exaggerated pomp. "It belongs to the Hatake clan."
"Must be a small clan then," Hanabi teased. Indeed, Kakashi's house was just that – a house. To call it a manor or a clan compound would be a blatant exaggeration.
"I am the only living member, after all," he confirmed, not offended at the jab.
"You forgot about someone, dumbass."
Hinata was so scandalized by her sister's inconsiderate and rude behavior, that she didn't immediately get the meaning of her words. Kakashi, however, did not seem to be upset at her unempathetic words at all. He just looked at Hanabi confusedly. His face remained pensive for a few seconds, before he started shaking his head, eyes twinkling with amusement.
"Although I consider them a family, my ninken are not officially part of the Hatake clan," he said with an indulgent tone, looking every bit a teacher who had just been asked an unusual but interesting question by his curious pupil.
This response earned him a kick from Hanabi.
Copy Ninja let a sound of pain almost loud and undignified enough for it to be considered a yelp. "What was that for?" he asked, rubbing his offended shin.
"You really are clueless. For a supposed genius, you are pretty dumb!" Hanabi admonished mercilessly.
He was about to voice his confusion when he realized what Hanabi was talking about. He forgot that Hinata, being his wife, was officially a Hatake.
"Oh," he said, realizing his oversight. "I'm sorry."
Hinata herself did not know what Hanabi was talking about until Kakashi apologized to her. His expression looked genuinely remorseful. As if he expected her to turn her back on him because of such a trivial thing. Well, normally forgetting that your wife is part of your family is not a good thing, but their circumstances were not exactly normal. It was understandable that he did not see her as part of his clan. She herself still felt as a Hyuga, despite being disowned. She felt old bitterness resurface after remembering that particular fact.
Kakashi seemed to notice the change in her face, as he seemed to physically shrink into himself, no doubt blaming himself for no reason again. Hinata's expression immediately softened.
'He is trying too hard,' she told herself, for umpteenth time since their marriage.
"I am not angry, Kakashi," she informed him gently. "Not because of that anyway. You don't need to treat me like I'm made of glass. I can take a hit too, you know."
He kept silent for a little while, understanding clear on his face. He relaxed, adopting a sheepish expression.
"I'm sorry."
Hinata let out a giggle. "You are doing that again!" she accused, eyes twinkling with amusement.
"What?" Kakashi asked, looking between his wife and his sister-in-law. "What did I do this time?!"
"You sure you are a genius?" Hanabi snickered, taking no little entertainment at his expense.
Not getting an answer, Copy Nin went ahead to prepare the training yard, grumbling about women and their confusing ways.
Hinata watched her husband work himself up, feeling guilty. She wondered how such a stoic man could beat himself over every small matter when it concerned her. She suspected he too still felt guilty for imposing this marriage on her. And her gentle personality probably didn't help to ease his guilt. She made a mental note to talk about it later with him, as well as show that she was comfortable with their arrangement. She didn't want him to worry about her on top of his responsibilities for the village.
"You are too forgiving to him, sis," she heard Hanabi complain.
"You think so?" Hinata asked, still remembering her little sister's tactless words about Kakashi's clan.
"Yeah, totally. You need to be more assertive," Hanabi pressed, as if Kakashi was the only one benefitting from Hinata's leniency. "Otherwise he will never learn."
Younger Hyuga seemed content digging her own grave.
"Well," Hinata smiled, "then I'll be stricter. And as a newly reformed stricter person I think you should apologize for what you said earlier about his clan."
Hinata made sure to infuse her words with enough sternness, so that her sister will have no option other than do as she was told. Turns out she didn't need it, as a flash of guilt passed Hanabi's expression. She watched with amusement as Hanabi went ahead to catch up with Kakashi, complaining all the while and sighing dramatically, completely mirroring the older man's actions a minute ago. Like brother like sister, she supposed.
Kakashi doesn't need to change, she thought, watching her husband ruffle Hanabi's hair after she delivered her no doubt lackadaisical apology. The girl tried to look annoyed, but her relief was obvious. Hanabi looked at her sister as if to say, 'happy now?' making Kakashi turn towards her as well. He gave her an easy smile, beckoning them to follow him into the training area.
Yep, he is perfect the way he is.