A Lion's Roar

by swagmoney5

Being reincarnated is an interesting life story, when a child from our world is reborn as Hinata Hyuga, she decided to get off of her ass and give her shot at being a hero. When you have too much knowledge and too much time, the only option is to train and become stronger and to make those around her stronger as well. Survival of the fittest and she wants to help everyone survive.

6. The noblest of them all

I jumped out of bed and ran over to Hanabi's crib checking to make sure she was still sleeping. I got ready for the day. I brushed my hair out and put it into a high ponytail with my side bangs out framing my face the same way mom used to do it. I looked over some of my bruises, put some healing cream on and wrapped bandages around them. I went into my closet and put on my outfit: A lavender battle kimono with slits on the sides, black spandex shorts, my gloves, ninja sandals, my kunai pouch, and my twin daggers were strapped to my waist. I went and picked up the now awake Hanabi and brought her over to Uncle Hizashi's home for the day. I know I can't leave her home alone with my dad for now. I just hope that one day he will see Hanabi for herself not as what killed mom. I handed off Hanabi to Uncle Hizashi and Neji came out of his room. Linking our arms, we bid goodbye to Uncle and Hanabi and left for the Academy. Finally, I get to see my friends again, it's been months. I hope they cant figure out the problems, I'm not a great liar. Oh Yes! I finally get to meet and befriend Naruto. I started skipping in excitement next to Neji. I looked over and saw his smirk.

"You sure are excited for the Academy, why? It's not like you aren't strong enough to graduate already."

"Niisan, I finally get to see my friends and make new ones, plus it's my pathway to becoming a real shinobi, how can I not be excited!" Neji rolled his eyes, but his face darkened at the mention of my friends. He is the only one who knows about my issues at home.

"It is your destiny to be the best kunoichi, not a shinobi. Only men are shinobi, you know this so stop playing ignorant." I pouted. Why does he talk so fancy and princely when he is barely older than me. It's so annoying because he makes me look dumb when he's not even trying.

"I know, I just don't understand why there is a difference." Neji chuckled at my annoyance.

"Save that for your teachers. Little miss, I act like a boy." We arrived at the academy and Neji gave me a quick hug, apologized for not being able to attend my introduction ceremony, and headed off to his class. I walked over to the group of kids my age looking for a familiar face. I saw all of the kids with families smiling and happy ready to support their kids, and my heart clenched in pain. Mom is gone and dad is so different, he wont even come to my ceremony. I stood off to the side of all the other kids when my eyes were covered.

"Guess who?" A familiar voice giggled. I snapped around and hugged my blonde friend tightly.

"Ino I missed you so much." Ino giggled at my 'girly' affections. She hugged me back just as tight.

"Hinata I missed you too, why'd you disappear like that?" I looked between her and her parents, I noticed Inoichi's eyes watching my reaction intently. I blushed and looked away sheepishly.

"Uh, heh, sorry about that I was just dealing with some stuff with my mom and Hanabi ya know."

"Oh yeah sorry. Oh well, at least we're together now!" She shouted, giving me another quick hug. I looked up toward Inoichi and he was eying me with suspicion. I pretended not to notice. Ino and I talked for a good minute before Shikamaru strolled up to us, hands in his pockets looking up to the sky. I smiled at his lazy attempt at pretending to act like he didn't care, his eyes gave it away, when he looked at me, they were filled with happiness, love, worry, and relief. I walked up to him and gave him a hug, which he returned albeit unwilling.

"Troublesome girl, Ino was worried and talked my ear off when you disappeared." I knew that was Shikamaru speak for him missing me, and by the smirk on Shikaku's face, he knew too.

"I missed you too Shika. Maybe now we can play shoji again, if I remember correctly, I still have more wins." I said giving him a cheeky smile. He returned it with a lazy smirk and a mumble of 'troublesome'. I looked at Shikaku and Yoshino and gave them a slight bow in greeting. I payed close attention to Shikaku, he was watching me as close as Inoichi. It was unnerving, I knew they would figure it out sometime, I hope I can hold off their suspicion for longer so I can solve the issues with my father without outside involvement. Shikaku studied me intently, whispered to Inoichi, then spoke.

"Hinata-san, where is Hiashi-sama? Surely you didn't come alone." He asked with a knowing tone. Damn him and Inoichi and their genius, they know already. I grabbed my wrist that was covered in bandages, that action didn't go unnoticed by them and Shikamaru, who grabbed my hand in reassurance.

"Oh yeah, Otousan said he was too busy and sadly couldn't make it today!" I said putting on a cheerful act. It fooled everyone except the people I needed it to. Shikaku hummed in understanding and exchanged glances with Inoichi. Choji came around and gave me a big hug, even going to share a chip with me. Even with the addition of Choji, the parents focus was on me. I saw Kiba, his mom, and his genin sister Hana so I called them over to take the attention off of myself. Kiba's boisterous personality worked wonders and he drew all of the attention on himself and his taunting of me for hiding out afraid of sparring him. I laughed along with him, his loud presence helped me calm down some. While we all conversed, waiting to be invited in, I saw the people I was hoping to avoid for now. I tried to look away, but Itachi's eyes caught mine.

I excused myself and went over to them bracing myself for the hug Mikoto would give me. Instead of a hug, I was greeted with a tense atmosphere from everyone except Sasuke.

I exchanged greetings with everyone and tried to figure out why everything was so tense. Oh shit, I forgot, this is when Itachi disobeyed his mission from Fugaku to get into the Anbu to attend Sasuke's entrance ceremony. That means its time to start putting my plans into action to protect Shisui. I should still have almost 2 years before Shisui's death, because the massacre doesn't happen until Sasuke is 8, he is six now, but I need to pay closer attention now. They all gave me a once over and Mikoto grasped my hands.

"Hinata-chan, what happened to you. Why are you covered in bandages? Why have you been locked up in your compound?" She spoke in her motherly worried tone.

"It's nothing, just some training accidents. I've also been helping father take care of Hanabi-chan since mom isn't there this time." Mikoto's eyes darkened in sadness before she pulled me into a hug. It was nice and warm, I haven't felt a hug like this in a while. I enjoyed he embrace until I felt eyes blaring into me. I looked at Itachi and noticed his sharingan and him frowning. He gave me a look that said, 'we'll talk later'.

I finally turned my attention to Sasuke, who looked so happy to have his family with him to start the academy. He bounced over to me a huge grin on his face.

"Hey freak, are you excited? I am, I'm going to be the top student in class like Aniki was. I've been training a lot and I'm probably the strongest kid in our year." I grinned at the obvious jab.

"Duckbutt, do I need to kick your ass again to make you remember, I'm the strongest in our year?" I smirked in triumph as he glared/pouted at me. A chunin teacher came out of the building and began to have us gather to start the ceremony. Thankfully nobody asked where my father was again. All of my friends and their families joined me in the ceremony and we sat and listened together. The ceremony was basically congradulating us on taking our steps in our shinobi journey and informing us what is to come. I looked around to all of the students in my year and recognized Ami and Shino. I didn't bother looking for Naruto since I knew he has already been in the academy for a year, since the Hokage let him join early. I brought my attention back to the ceremony as the chunin, Aoi i think was his name, brought the introduction to a close. Then, to my surprise, the Hokage came out. Lord 3d looked exactly like I thought he would, old but kind. He welcomed us and began to announce the classes. Not surprisingly I was placed with all of the rookie 9, and Ami sadly. Sasuke smirked at me as we were announced in the same class, Ino and Sakura cheered, Kiba and I high-fived, Choji hugged me, and Shika rolled his eyes telling me how troublesome it was before throwing his arm around me in a lazy embrace. How right Shika is though, this will be troublesome but oh so fun!

After the ceremony ended, the parents were forced out and all of us students got to meet our teachers. Iruka was way younger looking than I expected, he looked to be about 18. I don't know why I thought he would be older, I just did. He was wearing a typical chunin outfit, navy blue ninja pants and a navy blue long sleeved shirt, and the infamous ugly green chunin vest zipped up. He gave all of us a smile and we followed him into classroom 237. I walked into the classroom and immediately sat in the far back right corner. Sasuke came to sit next to me and all hell broke loose. All of the girls were surrounding him trying to get the seat next to him, most of them didn't even know his first name, they all called him Uchiha-kun. A few even had the nerve to tell me to move so they could sit next to him, but with Sasuke and I's combined glares they left me alone. Ino and Sakura were not part of the mob, but I could see the hearts in their eyes and the twitch to want to come sit by Sasuke. Sasuke looked freaked out, since he's not so brooding, he looked more terrified than anything whcih made me laugh until I was crying. I looked around at the other seats around me Shikamaru sat in front of me, Choji and Ino next to him, Sakura sat in the row next to Ino with Shino beside her. Kiba was in the row next to Sasuke and I. A few other boys were scattered around, I still couldn't see Naruto though. He is either late or he will join the class later in the year. Finally, Iruka-sensei got fed up with the fangirl screeching and made them sit down. None of the girls got to sit by Sasuke, instead he left it open for the late student. I could clearly see the disdain Iruka-sensei had when he said 'late student'. Yay, Naruto will be in my class. Sasuke stiffened at the thought of another person sitting next to him, so we switched seats.

Iruka-sensei introduced himself to us and told us a bit about the next few years and how we should all work hard and be friends blah blah blah. I was ready to follow in Shikamaru's footsteps and go to sleep when the classroom door slammed open. I held my breath, only one person would enter the classroom like that. I knew I was right when mess of gold and orange came tumbling into the classroom. I inwardly laughed in amusement, and began to fangirl. Oh my gosh he's adorable. Naruto stood up and rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly.

"Sorry I was late…" He began, but Iruka-sensei cut him off.

'Uzumaki, you're LATE! I don't care to hear any excuses brat. Go sit up by Hyuuga-san, it's the only empty seat left." Iruka-sensei basically shouted in annoyance with Naruto, his uncomfort with the boy was obvious. As soon as Naruto began to head my direction, I heard the whispers of the kids around us.

"Hey thats the boy my mom said to stay away from"

"Yeah I heard he's a demon"

"Ugh he's such a freak" Naruto's face immediately looked crestfallen as he heard the whispers and saw the glares pointed at him. I clenched my fist in anger, holding myself from attacking the assholes around me. They are so cruel to him and don't even know him. Sasuke and Shikamaru both took notice of my anger and sent me comforting and confused glances. I took in a few deep breaths and Naruto sat beside me. He kept his head down and wouldn't look at me. It's crazy to think that this shy boy grows up to be THE loudmouth Naruto Uzumaki. It hurt to see such hurt on his face, I know the pain of alienation and being alone so well. I reached my hand out and tapped Naruto on the shoulder. He looked up at me with a mix between a glare and fear. Brushing it off, I gave him the brightest smile I could. I heard gasps around me but ignored them. Naruto looked shocked at my expression, then he looked behind him, and back to me. I stuck my hand out to him, not paying attention to Iruka-sensei's introduction speech any longer.

"Hey, I'm Hinata, whats your name blondie?" I asked. HE yet again looked shocked and confused at my kindness in speaking to him.

"A-Are you asking m-me?" He asked nervously twiddling his fingers. I deadpanned and withdrew my hand, I know he's ignored and hated but geez cant he tell I'm trying to talk to him.

"Yeah dumbass, I am talking to you, whats your name?" He seemed to glower at my name calling, then brightened when he noticed I was just playing with him.

"Oh, I'm Naruto Uzumaki dattebayo! And Hey! I'm notta dumbass you weird eyed girl, Imma genius dattebayo!" He said pointing his thumb at his chest. I had to contain myself from squealing in excitement at his verbal tic. I've been waiting for this for so long!

"I'm just going to ignore the comment about my eyes. Nice to meetcha Naruto, I can see we're gonna be great friends." Forgetting his fake anger at my name calling, he seemed to shut down when I mentioned friends.

"You really want to be friends with me?" He asked with child like hope gleaming in his cerulean eyes.

"No shit sherlock, thats what I just said. You and I are friends now duh." I said to him. He looked like he was going to cry, but instead he jumped up in joy, fist pumping the air as I laughed at his actions.

"YATTA! I have a friend, even if she has weird eyes dattebayo!" It was then, we noticed everyone staring at us dead silent, mot of them looking at me in disbelief and thinking I'm crazy. Naruto looked uncomfortable again and quickly sat down. I glared at anyone who decided to give him mean looks.

"Uzumaki, since you decided to interrupt our class, you can be the first to introduce yourself to the class." Iruka-sensei said annoyed. Wow put the kid on the spot like that, dick move. I know he gets better, but it pisses me off. Naruto looked nervous and before he could start, I stood up.

"Hold the fuck up, I was the one who caused the commotion, I made Naruto shout, I should be the one having to go first not him. So stop picking on him like that, I thought you would be more mature then the dim witted assholes who treat Naruto like crap, Iruka-sensei." I sneered, using the intimidating techniques I've learned form my father and Fugaku. Everyone looked taken aback by the perfect Hyuuga princess using such disrespect and foul language. My friends looked at me in understanding, they know I don't like bullies. Naruto looked at me in happiness. Iruka-sensei's expression turned from shock to shame. He looked at us then nodded.

"If that is what you wish, I apologize for the misunderstanding Uzumaki-san. Hyuuga-san, since you cause the commotion, you will begin the introductions to the class." I nodded in acceptance and smirked at my win.

"Wassup, I'm Hinata Hyuuga I'm 5, turning 6 in December and I'm heir to the Hyuuga clan. I like my friends and family, shoji, making up music, making people uncomfortable, proving people wrong, and training. I dislike bullies, losing, failing, the stigma that women will always be weaker than men, situations that make peoples lives suck, and the hellspawn know as tea-ceremonies." Ino, Kiba, Choji, and Sakura snickered while Shika and Sasuke rolled their eyes. "My hobbies are like my likes, and my dream is for me to knwo and you to hopefully never find out." I ended with a cheeky smirk and a bow, before plopping back into my seat. Sasuke went next, he didn't say much, except how he wants to beat his brother, but it was sweet compared to the brooding kid he is in the anime, he even said he liked me well indirectly but still. Then came Nartuo.

"My name is Naruto Uzumaki dattebayo! I'm 5 and gonna 6. I like ramen of all kinds and my weird new friend Hinata-chan. I don't like waiting for my ramen to cook and I don't like reading or writing. My hobbies are pranks. My dream is to be the greatest Hokage then people will stop being mean and have to respect me dattebayo!" I almost freaked out hearing the famous words, but I contained it to a huge smile and gave Naruto a fist bump. Just to piss him off during the other introductons, since they mainly revolved around Sasuke for the girls, I whispered into Naruto's ear.

"Maybe I'm going to be Hokage, or duckbutt over there, what then blondie?" I taunted with a smirk as I watched him get annoyed, there is the Naruto I know and love.

"No way, I'm gonna be Hokage dattebayo. You guys are my rivals now and I wont lose."

"Sorry to burst your bubble, I don't want to be your rival, I already have one and he doesn't like sharing."

"I don't care, you are still my rival, along with Sasuke-teme, if he really is strong." to which Sasuke put in a 'Hn, dobe' but Naruto didn't hear him. I did though and smirked at Sasuke. And so it begins, the rivalry of the ages.

For the rest of class, we had introductions and got our school books. When the day was over, we all left the school and I waited, having hope that dad would pick me up. I saw everyone leave with heir parents except Naruto and I. I gave up on waiting and began to walk to the Uchiha compound instead of going home. I should probably talk to Itachi and say hi to Shisui-nii if he is home from his mission. On the walk to the compound, I noticed the small chakra's following me. I decided to ignore it since they couldn't do any real physical damage. I stopped and was roughly thrown to the ground. I looked up to see one of the boys from my class, Diachi, and a few older boys with genin headbands on, one of them was a Hyuuuga branch member. They all gave me sickening grins.

"So you're the supposed Hyuuga prodigy. How lame, you got thrown to the ground so easily." The Hyuuga, I think his name is Ren, scoffed at me. Not in the mood, I just looked at him blandly which seemed to infuriate him. He threw a kick to my side and I just grinned at him.

"Is that all you got?" I asked. Then the other boys decided to join in.

"You freak, look at your eyes, so many think they are so pretty, but to me you look like an ugly freak." I just deadpanned at the new boy speaking.

"You know, your friend has the same eyes right?" I asked like he was an idiot. That just made them lose all temperament. RIght as a kick was swing at me, a flash of blonde jumped in front.

"Hey you jerks, leave Hinata-chan alone, if anyone gets to fight and insult her it's me." Instead of listening, a punch was thrown by Ren knocking Naruto to the ground with blood dripping down his chin. At the same time, the other older boy stepped on my bandaged injuries from my father. Since they were fresh, I winced and he smirked in triumph. Finally Diachi spoke up.

"I told you she was friends with the demon. We should take them both out." I stood up, shoving the boy off of my leg, and growled at them.

"You can pick on me all they want but nobody hurts my friends in front of me." Just as I was about to activate my Byakugan and end their shinobi careers, Shisui flashed in front of me. I could tell by the way the boys cowered, he had his Sharingan activated.

"Lay one more finger on my little sister and her friend and you will all be executed by my hand. You do realize that she is the Hyuuga heir, and tightly in the Uchiha head family. You have no power over her and will be taken down in an instant. So to save your imbicyllic ways, leave now before I make you." Like frightened kittens, they all scurried off pushing one another. Shisui turned around and looked me up and down frowning. Instead of saying anything, I jumped into his arms and hugged him tightly. His frown was replaced with a huge smile at me.

"Imouto, always getting yourself into trouble with boys bigger than you." He chucked.

"Whatever Shisui-nii, you know I can take them. Anyways, I didn't need you since blondie decided to save me." Shisui put me down and turned his gaze to Naruto. Naruto flinched waiting for the beating or hate but it never came, instead Shisui smiled at him and thanked Naruto for coming to protect me. Naruto was overjoyed and began to brag about how he would never let his rival and friend get hurt by anyone. Accepting his response, Shisui deemed him safe to be left alone with and flashed back to bug his 'precious 'tachi-chan'. When he was gone, I put my full attention back to Naruto.

"Thanks for jumping in to save me. You're gonna be a good hero someday."

"I know! I'm going to be the best hero dattebayo! Why were they picking on you?"

"I don"t know." I lied, no way was I gonna say its because of him.

"It's the same with the villagers, they pick on me and stare at me with those eyes, but I don't know why." He said sadly. I ran up and hugged him.

"Don't listen to them. I like you already, they are just so wrong about everything." His megawatt smile returned.

"Yeah! Don't listen to those guys either, your eyes are pretty, I mean they are weird and kind of scary, but it doesn't make you ugly dattebayo!" I laughed at his attempt to reassure me of my eyes being cool.

"I can make my eyes more freaky, wanna see?" Naruto nodded enthusiastically and stared in fascination as I turned on my Byakugan. I looked at Naruto and damn, he really does have massive chakra reserves that swirl inside of him like a whirlpool. I could see the fight between the blue and red chakra, the blue winning, but still thrashing around. No wonder he has terrible control, his chakra is erratic with his massive reserves. Mine is easy to control even at its large size for my age because it flows, not calm, more like a buzzing, but still flowing naturally. I am going help him and make him stronger before we reach genin. I shut off the Byakugan and told Naruto that over ramen tomorrow, I can tell him about it. He was so excited he ran off to go tell his 'jiji'.

When he was gone, I finished my journey to the Uchiha compound and right at I stepped in the front door, I was whisked inside and thrown on the couch.

I blinked and tried to stand back up from the sudden assault, but I was held down. I looked at my captor and saw the unusually serious face of Shisui. I looked back in front of me and Mikoto, Itachi, and Fugaku were giving me the same serious (even more so than usual for Fugaku) expression. Sasuke was out training alone and I knew this would be coming when he was out of the house. I was just hoping they wouldn't have truly found out so soon. I knew Mikoto would know right away, she was one of the strongest Jounin kunoichi's for a reason and a mother, but I was hoping everyone else would just think it was from training. Shisui's training left me battered too, but maybe because I never covered those, they suspected something. I squirmed around to get out of Shisui's grip and away from prying eyes, but he just tightened his hold to the point, I knew I can't get out. Surprisingly, it was Fugaku who spoke up first.

"Who?" I looked at him and feigned confusion.

"Who what Fugaku-sama?"

"Who did this to you?" He spoke in a low tone that was so cold and filled with so much anger, I shivered.

"I don't know what you are talking about?" I said, my voice cracking. It was then, Shisui spoke up, his tone was sad and slow, trying to not provoke me but emphasizing his seriousness. When he is that serious, I know there isn't much I can do to get out of it, i can sure try though.

"Damn it Imouto, who is giving you all of those bruises," I opened my mouth to speak, but Shisui continued speaking, "and don't you dare say they are from training, I am not stupid." I sighed at how he could read me so well. I looked down, away from everyones eyes and spoke mainly to myself in a hushed whisper.

"I can't. No, it's not is fault." Mikoto grabbed my hands with one of her own in a warm yet firm grip, using the other hand, she made me look her in the eyes. I could feel the tears falling from my eyes, and the ones glistening in hers.

"Hinata-chan, I know the signs of abuse, and from what I have gathered, your father is the one doing this isn't he? I know you don't blame him, but you need to think about your own safety and do something." She pulled me out of Shisui's lap and into her own, sitting us on the floor. I held on to her tightly and cried, finally letting out the truth I have been dealing with for the past 6 months alone.

"I can't, I have to protect my Hanabi. Otousan is so sad without mom, Hanabi looks just like her, he blames her. If I don't distract him and make him put his sadness on me, he will hurt her instead. She's a baby, I can't do that." I heard a sharp intake of breath from where Fugaku and Itachi were. I looked up, and both of their Sharingans were flaring dangerously, I looked back and Shisui's was the same. Itachi let out a low growl.

"I'm going to kill him." I jumped out of Mikoto's lap and grabbed Itachi's hand tightly, when he looked at me, I flinched from the intensity of his Sharingan, I understand now why people are so afraid of it.

"No, you can't! He's my dad and I love him. He will come around sometime, please. I will do anything, just don't hurt him." I pleaded, my voice shaking in fear for my father. When they all finally realized that I was just a scared little girl, their Sharingans faded.

"You will bring Hanabi and you will both be staying here until there is no threat to you. You are my future daughter and so I will be taking this into my own hands, along with the Hokage and the other clan heads who figured it out. It will be kept discreet and Sasuke will not know, but this has to be solved and for a clan head to be in this situation, other clan heads have to be involved. I will not harm your father, on that you have my word." Fugaku spoke with finality and all I could do was nod in acceptance. This will be good I hope, I can finally escape with Hanabi until father is relieved of his grief and can think straight again, then we can be a real family.

After a few minutes sitting in silence, Itachi held me to his chest and walked out the front door, Shisui in tow. We made it to my clan's compound and Itachi and I quickly made our way into my room while Shisui went to get Hanabi from Uncle Hizashi's and gave Neji a note on what is going on. I packed some of my books and a few other necessities in a bag. I also packed all of what I could for Hanabi. We left as quick as we could, to not meet my father, I don't think I could face him right now. I know what he's doing is wrong, but he is just sad and us leaving will make him more alone. But, for the sake of Hanabi and my fathers life, I will let everyone else talk sense into him. As much as I want to fix things, I'm still a kid and can't fix something like this when I have no clue where to even start. Having the head of them police force and the parents of my friends will hopefully be the solution I need.

On the way back to the Uchiha compound, the tension was thick in the air. It was uncomfortable for all of us until, Shisui being the awesome person he is, grabbed Itachi's small ponytail and yanked it back. Itachi put on his infamous glare.

"I am going to kill you Shisui." He grit out. Shisui responded with a cheeky shit-eating grin and began to mercilessly tease Itachi. I couldn't hold it in anymore and began to laugh so hard tears were coming out of my eyes. I only laughed harder when Hanabi was giggling along with me. Stoping their verbal fights, I still will never understand how Shisui gets the quiet and wordless Itachi to speak so much, they both turned to me and smiled, happy to see me laughing again. I saw the glint in Shisui's eyes.

"Fuck you Shisui-nii, you totally played me to get me to laugh, and you 'tachi, you went along with it. I thought you loved me." I fake accused, trying and failing to hide my smile. My smile vanished when Shisui smacked my head, hard, and Itachi poked my forehead.

"Imouto, language, even for a she-male like you, it is not ladylike pr appropriate for a kid. What kind of brother would I be if I let you continue your foul mouth?" Shisui stated with pride. I rubbed my head from the pain.

"The best kind" I mumbled out.

"Hinata-hime, we did it to make you smile. I don't like when you frown." Itachi stated in the kind yet semi-monotone voice of his. I gave up my pouting and smiled up at them.

"I know. Thanks guys I really appreciate it." We finally made it back to the compound and when we made it inside, Sasuke was standing at the door waiting. He rushed to his brother, trying to remain calm but failing, and gave him a hug.

"Aniki, Shisui! Today was AWESOME!" He proceeded to tell Itachi and Shisui all about his entire day. Itachi had a small smile and listened happily while Shisui gibbered along with Sasuke. After 10 minutes of talking to his 'Aniki', Sasuke finally realized he had company. He turned to me with confusion in his eyes.

"Freak, what are you doing here with Hanabi?" Yes, my nickname has been shortened to Freak, but I don't mind because it's not being used as a real insult from him.

"I'm going to be staying here for a while duckbutt!" I said waiting to see his reaction. Instead of an insult or groan like I was expecting, he smiled and ran up to me, taking Hanabi out of my arms and cooing at her.

"Thats so cool, we can spar all of the time, and I get to play with Hanabi-chan again, and we can go to school together and show everyone whose boss, and we can play house because Aniki never wants to, and you can share a room with me!." He was so excited to hang out with me. I smiled brightly and fist pumped, shouting a "yeah!"

After dinner, it was late and Sasuke and I were both fading, our eyes droopy. Mikoto scooped us both up and brought us to the bathroom. She let each of us shower quickly and brush our teeth. Putting on our night clothes, she led us both to Itachi's room. There were three futons rolled out on the floor since Sasuke wanted us all to have a sleepover. Hanabi was sleeping with Mikoto and Fugaku so I finally laid down to go to bed. Too tired to do any planning, I crawled into the middle futon and began to fall asleep. Sasuke whispered a goodnight and fell asleep with me. I was sleep too deep to notice Itachi come in an hour later. He smiled a warm yet sad smile at both of us, Sasuke who slid over and was not holding me close. He kissed our foreheads and slid into the futon next to me, holding Sasuke and I like he was afraid he would lose us, and drifted off to sleep.

The few months or so went similar, except, now that I don't have to worry about my sis and father as much, I spent more time on my planning for the future, specifically the Uchiha Massacre. Making sure I have every detail I can remember, and to make sure I couldn't be caught, I wrote in English instead of Japanese. The best thing about being mixed in my old life was working out now, I'm fluent in both languages and that gives me an advantage because nobody will be able to figure out what I write and say in English unless I teach them, thank Kami for English being the most obnoxious and confusing language. Every night when Itachi and Sasuke would fall asleep, I would slide out of their grasps and work on my planning. I would go to bed right before they would wake up. Getting little to no sleep sucks, but it will hopefully be worth it in the wrong run. Even after a year of planning, I still don't know what to do or how to do it, but somehow, someway I will do something.

The Academy was also interesting. I got to be around my friends every day and that was fun, Naruto and I have a stronger bond now, even though we have a one sided rivalry, the most surprising thing was Kunoichi classes.

After about a month of regular schooling, mainly learning basics of reading, writing, history, and math, we finally began to get into the good ninja stuff. During the last quarter of the day, Iruka-sensei had the boys and girls split up. Us girls were sent to a field. When we got there, there was an old lady standing straight as a board. She was skinny, wearing a heavily decorated kimono, her hair was grey and pulled into a super tight bun, and she had a wrinkly and stern yet extremely beautiful face. The aura around her was regal and full of power. We all stopped befrore her, watching as she assessed us with her brown eyes.

"I am Sieko Oda, you will call me Lady Sieko. I am going to be this academy generations instructor on the feminine side of being a Kunoichi. First we will go over what it means to be a Kunoichi, then what it means to be a lady, and on your last year on the art of seduction. You will learn how to be the perfect woman and the perfect Kunoichi, many of you have been taught about being a lady from one of the best, Mikoto Uchiha, but here, we will be going more indepth. I will teach you how to be graceful yet deadly. I will not be treating you like children so do not act like children. If you cannot handle what I throw at you, you must quit. I do not want anything less than perfection, yet many of you will fail. You will speak when spoken to and I do not want whining or complaining, am I clear."

"Yes Lady Sieko" We all replied. Damn, this is Kunoichi class, this lady is hardcore. I don't know whether I should like her, hate her, or fear her. Probably the ladder. This will definitely be my most difficult class. I am not graceful or anything close to a lady. The only thing I am excited for is the last year. I mean since I was a teen when I died, I knew what seduction was. It's an easy way to make people flustered an uncomfortable, my favorite pass time. That will be fun to learn the actual art too it, I can't wait!

"For the beginning of every class, you will sit properly and meditate until you can find your chakra. Once everyone has completed this task, you will learn how to control your chakra. Sit and I will assess your posture. You fix what I say and do not speak back to me." She said in a demanding and fierce tone. Yep, I am officially scared shitless of this woman who seems to be perfect. Following her orders, I sat down in the way Mikoto and my mother trained me. Back uncomfortably straight, sitting on my heels, my head held level, and my hands in my lap. The only thing different is that I have my hands palm up and fingers laced together in my meditating pose. Sitting this way for the first two years was killer, but after a while, it feels normal. I still like my slouched indian style better, but this still works for meditation. I watched other the other girls watch me sit and did their best to follow suit. I could tell who had been trained and who hadn't. Sadly Ami was sitting like a perfect lady, her's was as good as mine, Ino's, and Sakura's. From what I could tell, we were the best at this of the other 10 girls here. Lady Sieko came around and harshly fixed all of the postures, I could hear some of the girls cry out from the pain that comes from sitting like this. When she walked by me, she gave me a pleased nod. When she stopped by Ami, she stopped.

"Everyone stop and look over here. Ami is a perfect example of how you should look, this is a proper lady. Your goal will be to sit like her. Go back to your sitting." Ami had the most smug smirk on and shot it towards us. Sakura and Ino glared back while I ignored her completely. After 20 minuted of boring sitting, Seiko finally let us meditate. She described the feeling of chakra, how to get to it, and how to hold it. Since our chakra coils are more developed now, it will be easier for them to find and fully unlock their chakra than it was for me. I closed my eyes to meditate and instantly felt the buzz of my chakra flowing inside and around me. I am not a true sensor ninja, but with my Hyuuga bloodline and sensitivity to chakra, I could feel the chakra of the others around me. Each had their won characteristics that matched the person, and I could feel the amount of chakra. I can only really do this when meditating or I can see it with my Byakugan. Ino had the most chakra of the other girls our age. Most of the other girls had small amounts like Sakura, probably because they were civilian born or had no important clans. Lady Seiko's chakra was impressive, that of a high Chunin like my own. I opened my eyes and looked at Lady Seiko, she basically floated over to me.

"You are Hinata Hyuuga, the Princess and prodigy of the clan." I nodded a yes, no way am I talking out of turn, she scares me. "It took you longer than I though for you to find your chakra, why is that. I know you can use it already."

"I can access my chakra instantly, I was assessing the other girls chakras."

"What did you find?"

"I know Ino can use her chakra, it takes her a bit to find it but hers is stronger than the others from her clan training she is starting. The other girls either come from minor clans or are civilian born from their small amounts of chakra. Sakura, the pink haired girl, seems to have chakra control and has just unlocked her chakra." She stared down at me, then looked to the other girls, and back. She gave me another nod in approval. Only Ino, Sakura, and I had access to our chakra by the end of class.

The next two weeks of class went similar. Finally, all of the girls unlocked their Chakra. Lady Seiko then explained about how important it is for females to control our Chakra. To learn control, we had to place leaves on our foreheads and hold it there for an hour before we could move on to the next step in Kunoichi classes. Sakura and I got it immediately, Ino, Ami, and Rika were next. After 1 month of this we finally got to move on.

Timeskip (They are all 7 now, some of them truning 8 soon)

Sakura and Ino

At the end of class one day, Sakura came running up to Ino and I.

"Guess what, I'm officially in love." Sakura hummed blushing. No way this can't be happening right now. I've noticed how much more intense everyone's obsession for Sasuke has become. Ino and Sakura don't fangirl, but I can see the jealousy they harbor for me since they know about the partial engagement and how I live with him. I always tell them that they can have him, but the just give me annoyed glances at that. I was hoping that since I was here, they wouldn't fight, but I guess I'm going to be wrong about that.

"Who is it Sakura-chan?" Ino asked. Sakura glanced at me, the back to Ino.

"Sasuke-kun, eep, he helped me answer a question today when I asked." She squealed. Damn it, this is when the become rivals and the worst type of fangirl. Ino shot up.

"No way, Sasuke-kun is mine." Ino shouted to Sakura. Done with this, I stood between them.

"What the hell is going on with you two. Sasuke is just a boy no need to fight."

"Thats because you want him for yourself. From now on, we are not friends, we are rivals." They said at the same time. I huffed

"I'm not apart of this." I said full of annoyance.

"Of course you're not, as Rivals, forehead and I have to take Sasuke-kun from you, you don't deserve him, you don't even work for his love like we have to you tomboy." Ino said snootily.

"Yeah, Ino-pig is right, Sasuke-kun won't love a tomboy loser like you, he wants a lady that he can protect like me. You guys will never get married." Sakura said to me, her eyes glaring daggers at me.

"Is this really how our friendship is going to end? Because you both want the same boy as everyone else."

"Yes, we don't like you, I just wanted to get to Sasuke-kun but that didn't work, so I will finally do what you can't, show him love from a real girl."

"Yeah, loser!" Ino and Sakura said to me. Those words hurt my chest, I could feel the burn in my eyes from trying to hold back tears. There is no way, we were friends, they are really willing to throw all of that away for their growing desire of a boy.

"If thats how you really feel, I'll leave." I said, I got no response just some glares with a hint of regret in them. I jumped in the nearest tree and sped off, the tears freely falling down. I can't believe my only girl friends would be so jealous of my friendship with Sasuke, that they were willing to hurt me so bad with their words. I try to not let stuff like that get to me, I know I'm not a great girl and wont be the perfect lady, but for them to say it, really hurts. I jumped down from the trees into a clearing right on the outskirts of the village and began to cry.

After a few minutes of crying, my sadness turned into anger and I couldn't hold it in anymore. I began running to train more reckless than usual. I took my gloves off and hit the largest tree I could find over and over, not adding chakra. I could feel the blood dripping down my hands, and the splinters of wood pushing deeper and deeper into my knuckles. Ignoring the stinging, I continued to punch and kick, screaming out in anguish. First I die, then my dies mom, then dad becomes so hurt, and now my only female friends are gone. For each thing I was hurting about, I added more force into my attacks. I hit everything in my sight for hours, my mind was so clouded with emotions I didn't notice the figure entering the clearing until they were right behind me. I turned around to hit them, when a wall of bugs protected the figure from my wild attack. Glad i didn't accidentally hurt the person, I finally let my self slump to the ground exhausted.

Shino

"Hinata-san." A monotone boy voice stated.

"S-Shino-san?" I breathed out confused at his appearance. This will finally be my chance to befriend him. I looked into his glasses and he nodded.

"I am surprised you know who I am. Why, nobody knows who I am even when we are classmates." He said in his weird but adorkable speech pattern.

"I know who you are, I've always known. I'm sorry for not speaking to you sooner."

"You never have time. Why, I've noticed your friends always steal your attention."

"Yeah, so uh, why are you here?" I asked, trying to figure out what the hell he's doing. I still couldn't see his face with his large coat and glasses, so I couldn't gage what he's thinking.

"I was searching for new bugs. Why, I am interested in rare species and they are normally being born at this time but instead of bugs, I heard you yelling and I came over to you. You took your gloves fro reasons I am not sure. The result is your hands are now mangled and bleeding. Follow me and we will clean your hands." I stood up and wobbled a bit from exhaustion. Steading myself, I followed Shino to the nearby stream. I kneeled and placed my hand in the water, hissing from the stinging of the water against my bloody knuckles. We watched in silence as the blood from my hands stained the water red as it flowed down. After all of the blood was off, silently, Shino took my hands and a few bugs crawled out taking all of the splinters out of my hands. I looked away, I don't hate bugs, but I don't want them in my cuts. In a few minutes, I felt Shino taking something soft and gauzy and wrapping it around my hands. I watched as he meticulously wrapped my hands in white medical gauze. He tied the wrappings off and stood up, walking away without saying anything. Right before he disappeared, I yelled out a thank you. Without even really knowing me and making me talking about my issues, Shino was kind enough to just help me. He made me feel better and I don't know if he was even trying to. I still felt my heart aching for my lost friends, but I also felt a bit better because I gained a new one even if he doesn't know it yet.

Shisui

I went back to the compound, and instead of sleeping where I normally would because I couldn't see Sasuke right now, I informed Mikoto briefly of the situation and she allowed me to go stay with Shisui. So now, I get to stay with my big bro, who was overly ecstatic to have a house companion. When I told shisui about the incident, he gave me a hug and made me laugh by telling about his missions and how easy it is to annoy Itachi. The best was when he told Itachi he would make a good girl because his hair and features were so delicate when he was younger. Shisui also taught me how to make dango, which ended up with us just going to buy some. I don't think his kitchen will ever recover from our hurricane of batter. Note to self: Shisui has no idea how to cook anything. After constant begging, I begrudgingly let Shisui dress me because he used puppy dog eyes and said I am his "Precious Imouto."

"Please, please, please, please my precious Imouto let me dress you up." Shisui begged, sitting on top of my stomach so I couldn't move away from him. Even if I got away, he's still too fast to actually escape.

"Hell no, you're going to make me look like a clown or a bimbo."

"I promise I won't do either of those things. I promise I will love you forever and ever, and I will tell you 'Tachi-chan's most embarrassing moment." I saw the glint in his eye, he knew he had me on the last condition. We exchanged mischievous grins.

"Fine I accept, I can't wait to know what the perfect 'Tachi has to be embarrassed about." Right then, Shisui blindfolded me, I promised not to cheat with my Byakugan, and led me somewhere. From the chatting of the people, I deduced that I'm in the civilian area of town. Shisui led me into a store and told the clerk that I promised to let him dress me. The lady squealed saying how cool of a big brother he is. I rolled my eyes at that. After a bit of being led around the store and whispering between Shisui and the lady, I heard the door shut. The lady began to speak to me and told me she would help dress me. I could feel the soft fabrics being put on me and tied up. I could also feel the shoes go on my feet, and from the feel they were small heels or something. I honestly have no idea what I'm wearing, I cant even fathom what Shisui would be so excited to dress me in. The lady began to do my hair and I could feel her place it into high pigtails. I was led out of the door and I could hear a bunch of 'awes' from around me. Shisui let out the most dorky squeal I've ever heard come from a teenage boy.

"Oh my gosh Imouto you are so cuteeee." He took the blindfold off and I was in the forest. I looked in the mirror he provided for me. My jaw dropped to the ground and my eyes were wide. My hair was in really childish pigtails with pink bows, it worked since Im a kid but still. I was wearing a poofy light pink doll dress with black ribbons on the bodice. I looked like a freaking barbie princess. I had knee high pink socks on and little black heels. I cringed at the terrible choice in clothing. I didn't even know they had this type of clothing here. I turned to Shisui glaring, I knew it wasn't working with my look but I tried. He just smiled bigger.

"What the hell Shisui-nii, why do I look like a Unicorn puked pink all over me?" Ignoring not understanding what a unicorn was, Shisui just shrugged.

"I can't wait 'til everyone else gets to see you, you look like a doll. I finally get to see you be a super girly hime!"

"Nobody else is seeing this, I'd lose all of my street credit and don't forget that I'd never hear the end of it from the guys. Please Shisui-nii, give me my clothes so I can change back." Shisui smiled a smile I was beginning to fear, he only gives Itachi those smiles.

"Oh it's too late for all of that." He said before pointing behind me. I spun around quickly and almost had a heart attack. Standing there were the people I did not want to see me like this, some of my friends. Mikoto was taking pictures, Itachi was staring wide eyes, Sasuke had a faint blush, Kiba was laughing his ass off, Neji had a smug look on his face, Shika had a smirk, Naruto was gaping like a fish, and Choji had a small smile.

"Hinata-hime you should never let shisui dress you again." Neji deadpanned. At least he's on my side.

"You look like a freaking princess hahhahaha. I bet you hate this hahaha, I'm never going to let you live this down. Big Bad Hinata reduced to such a little girl" Kiba laughed out and wouldn't stop even when I glared at him, it only made him laugh harder at my glare which was more of a pout.

"Wow freak, you l-look like an idiot fangirl." Sasuke stuttered out still blushing madly.

"Troublesome girl, this was worth waking up" Shika stated still smirking at my form.

"WOW I never knew you liked stuff like this Hinata-chan since you act so much like a boy dattebayo!" Naruto shouted out.

"I think you look cute Hinata-chan" Choji said giving me his cute little smile, I gave him a smile back before glaring again. I activated my Byakugan and gave an evil grin to Shisui.

"Fuck you Shisui Uchiha. I am going to KILL YOU!" I took a step to run at Shisui but before I could get to him, I tripped in my shoes. I took them off and threw them at him, he dodged. I got up to send Shisui to Kami, but before I could, Itachi grabbed hold of me saying he was taking me away from the day, everyone agreed if I promised to hang out with them each after my day with Itachi.

Itachi

Itachi stopped jumping through the trees and put me down. I noticed we made it to the training grounds in the Uchiha compound. He started walking ahead of me, and I followed after him. We made it inside and I ran past him into our shared room. I began to strip as fast as I could. Getting out of the horrid doll clothing, I put on a pair of black ankle length ninja pants a red shirt with my clan symbol on the back, and my ninja sandals. Exiting the room, Itachi was waiting for me. He took my hand and we walked to a tea shop.

"Thanks for the save 'Tachi, although you should have let me knock some sense into Shisui-nii." I said, taking a drink from my sour fruit tea. 98 percent of tea is gross, it tastes like dirty grass no matter what flavor, the only way to cover up the flavor is to add sugar, which still is nasty, but the amount of sugar needed is basically like me drinking diabetes, so I can only drink super bitter fruit teas. My tea is like drinking an unripened orange, super sour with hints of fruit, it also has lots of caffeine, like I need any, but still, its a good flavor. Like sour patch kids without the sweetness. I love sour and bitter things so its perfect, and it doesn't have that shitty taste other teas, even sweet fruit teas have. Nobody else likes tea like mine I found out, when I made myself tea. My friends took one sip of my tea and spit it out. The type of tea people like and how they think about tea says a lot about them as a person, at least thats what Lady Seiko says, and when we all discussed tea, she said that my tea style suggests I'm an anomaly and thats about it. So I guess she was right, I am an anomaly in all forms, yay my freakishness. Itachi likes classic made tea with extra sugar, the sweet tooth boy he is, which I think means he is a reserved person with an unknown kindness for people. Pretty spot on, maybe there is something to this tea shit, but I still hate it.

"Hn, I'll always be there to save you." He replied sweetly, while giving me a grossed out look because of how I can drink my tea so happily. Honestly, he's the gross one for drinking dirty leaf water. We sat and talked, mainly me doing the talking, for a few hours, downing cup after cup of tea. Although Itachi and I spend a lot of time together, he doesn't talk all that often so I only know surface things and tendencies he has. Drinking our tea, we finally got to know each other better. Itachi's dream is to have peace, when he was around for the 3d war, it scarred him and drove him to want to be a pafacist. He also wants Sasuke to surpass him in every way. Itachi is really caring and sweet, but after making him actually have a conversation not just about ninja stuff, he really is one of the most terrible at communication people I've ever met. Every time he says stuff it's so proper and awkward, like he's never had somebody to really be himself around, so he doesn't know who being himself is. It's pretty funny that the badass Itachi is such an awkward person when he's not using his emotionless mask.

Every once and awhile, I would say something and his eyes would glaze over and he would tense, it gave me the heads up that Danzo is already pushing towards the massacre and the coup is being planned. To distract Itachi from the inner turmoil he must be going through because of this, I let him know more about my life and myself, he knows about how I want to save everyone (he doesn't know who) and my sadness over never being able to have girl friends. I also told him about how I am a fangirl. He looked so confused at it until I explained it to him. I first told him about my love for Spider-Man, who doesn't exist here which confused him more, and how he is just the greatest thing and I would marry him. He seemed relieved he's not real though, maybe he was worried I wouldn't marry him or Sasuke, which I still am not going to. I also told him about members of the Akatsuki, without telling him who they are cuz that would end bad in so many ways. But seriously, I was a huge fan of the Akatsuki, I mean Hidan and Deidara and just everyone are just so sexy, minus the fucked up mindset part, but I know I can help some of them. Itachi also told me about how he had a crush on Izumi because of her dango, but said he's over her and somebody else has made him begin to fall in love. Whoever she is, is lucky. Maybe it's me but maybe not, we just are arranged to be married, he's not in love with me, I think, he probably thinks of me as a sister like Shisui does.

After finishing up our teas, Itachi brought me to a clearing by a river. Ive never been here before and I was so confused on why we were here. Noticing my confusion, Itachi handed me a scroll. It was for a basic water jutsu. He said he's been learning to teach me one since it's my main affinity. I let out a really 'badass' squeal in excitement and face planted into the ground when I was spinning, to which he chuckled slightly. I aimed a half-hearted glare at him.

"You never speak of this or I tell everyone of the dango incident Shisui told me about." Itachi froze, his cheeks reddened and he nodded quickly. I heard him whisper something about feeding Shisui to the cats piece by piece. Moving on, Itachi taught me the hand seals,Monkey, Rat, Tiger, Horse, Dragon, and showed me how to do the jutsu. It's a water style called Snakes Mouth. Its similar to the Water Dragon jutsu but way less intense and has a lot less hand seals. When Itachi did it, a snake head came out of the river and ate the nearest rock, throwing it into the air and crushing it slightly. It was AWESOME! Right away, I practiced the hand signs, which let me tell you, feels so awkward. I could feel my chakra moving around and pushing it out through my handseals. I did each of them slow until after about 10 minutes when I could do them in a faster succession, and 5 minutes later when I finally had them fast enough to actually produce a justu.

I did each hand seal, and when I finished with the Dragon seal, water raised out from the stream in a skinny pillar but then it just collapsed back into the stream. Damn it, after just one practice, I felt pretty tired, I didn't use up too much chakra since I have basically perfect control, but doing an elemental technique had a different strain than any of my other training has. Itachi had me do the justu again and turned on his Sharingan. When I failed at making more than a water pillar, which could be useful later, he explained how I am not controlling my chakra after it makes the pillar. I am supposed to keep focusing and mold my chakra with the water to make the snake head and have it move the way I want it to. My next try I made the water turn into a snake head, but it still was a straight up and down. After a few more tries, my final attempt I made the snake and got it to move the way I wanted, drenching Itachi and myself, it isn't the most intense in strength yet but with practice and developing my own technique, one day it will be super strong. After I finished the snake, I danced in victory, before passing out from exhaustion, leaving a soggy Itachi to carry me home.

Shikamaru:

I woke up in the morning still pretty tired from chakra exhaustion, so I decided today would be a good day to hang out with Shikamaru after the academy. Being at the academy was super boring today, we went over the founders of the leaf village: Madara and Hashirama. Most of the information is correct about Hashirama but there were a lot of errors about Madara and his role in the founding of the Hidden Leaf Village. Madara was portrayed as a power hungry evil man who only wanted to be the best. Madara is power hungry and became somewhat evil, because of his steps to make good things, but I thoroughly believe that situations make people bad, they are not born evil. A lot of information on Madara was missing too like how he actually got Izuna's eyes and stuff. It was really frustrating because Madara was actually a good guy before his family and village turned against him, making him hate the village he created.

I really wanted to fix the perception and tell everyone the real truth of the village founding and how even Hashirama wanted Madara as Hokage but nobody would believe me, and I'd get interrogated by someone scary like Ibiki until I confessed to how I got the knowledge. That is a big no-no. Oh well, Kunoichi classes were alright, Lady Seiko made us go through this kind of yoga thingie for women to be flexible, because a 'good kunoichi is a flexible kunoichi' or something. That was super easy, I'm the most flexible in class and have been flexible my whole life so nothing new.

At then end of the day, I walked out of school talking with Naruto when my hand was grasped and I was yanked away. I shouted a goodbye to Naruto before obediently following Shikamaru to wherever he was taking me. After him pulling me away from the other students, he released me and stuffed his hands in his pockets. He slowed his pace and walked in his lazy way only a Nara could. We walked in silence, I was doing some flips and twists when I would get bored. After about 6 minutes, we arrived to a grassy hill that had a single oak tree growing out of the top. Shika walked up the hill and laid in the shade of the tree, I followed and laid next to him. He turned his gaze to the sky and his entire demeanor seemed to relax even more. He looked so tranquil and in his element. We stayed like that for Kami knows how long before he decided to speak.

"I've always wanted to be a cloud, to just float along however the wind blows."

"That is such a boring life to live." I responded closing my eyes to enjoy the cool breeze and the tickle of grass against my skin. I failed to notice Shikamaru watching my every movement intensely, memorizing all of my features.

"Life is a drag, I just want a simple life, nothing more nothing less."

"Nothing about life should be simple, if its simple then what is the point of living. I want to earn the best life possible for myself and others, only then is anything worth it. If you strive for nothing then whats the point of even living."

"Troublesome girl." I know Shika is smart enough to explain his opinions and probably argue with me on why his way is better, but everything is too much energy for him. Lazy ass. I think he just sees life as if you don't strive towards a goal, then there is nothing to disappoint you with. He probably has a fear of failure like I do, but he's just going about his fear differently. Instead of overcoming his fear, he just ignores it and makes it so that failure can't even happen.

"Yeah yeah, you still love me Shika." I responded dryly. He gave a short chuckle and a quiet hum of yes. While Shika laid and watched the clouds, possibly sleeping, I meditated and worked on my plans in my head. At some point, I fell asleep for the first time in a while, unconsciously curling into Shikamaru's side. He's a nice body heater to sleep with.

I woke up from Shikamaru shaking me awake. The sly was brilliant hues of pinks and purples as the sun set. Deciding to go have dinner with Shika, we headed towards his compound. When I entered the door, I was greeted with a hug from Yoshino Nara, who was wearing an apron on her small frame. She ushered me to relax on the couch while scolding Shika for whatever he did. I giggled at their antics, she really is a spitfire woman to keep the boys inline. Shika took off his shoes and slumped over to me grumbling about how troublesome women are.

"Shika, wanna play Shoji, I'm still mad about my last loss."

"Sure" He replied, losing his bad mood instantly at the prospect of playing his favorite game. Shika and I were in an intense battle for an hour until I ended up making a fatal move which played right into his strategy, putting me in check mate. Shikamaru gave me his condescending lazy smirk and I pouted. Stupid super genius, I liked it better when I was smarter than him, now I'm not and it sucks. Just as I was about to say something to Shika about his win Shikaku walked in and informed us it was time for dinner. Shikamaru and I exchanged glances before rushing off to wash our hands and sit at the table. If we didn't hurry, Yoshino would kick our asses.

Dinner was so good, we had a bunch of noodle dishes and pork, yummy, I enjoyed every bite. The conversation was fun too, we talked about the academy and my Kunoichi classes. Shikaku also hinted to me that I would be able to see my father soon-ish which made me really happy, Hanabi and I miss him. After we finished eating and conversing, Shika walked me home. We walked close together since its dark and were in a comfortable silence the entire way home. WE stopped at the entrance of the Uchiha compound and I gave him a hug goodbye, missing the way his cheeks tinted pink. I went to Hanabi's room, kissed her goodnight and slid into my own futon, waiting for the boys to go to sleep so I can scheme.

Naruto

I jumped out of bed, got dressed and ready for school and raced downstairs. I was so late so I skipped breakfast and just grabbed a ration bar. I was up planning so late and I was so in my own world, I didn't realize that Sasuke had already left. Itachi was on one of his Anbu missions so he will be gone for a while. Fugaku was at work, and Mikoto was who knows where with Hanabi, so I was alone and so late. I ran out the door, hopped on a rooftop and sprinted to the academy. Instead of running through the hallways, I chakra climbed up the wall and to the window of Iruka-sensei's classroom. Pushing open the window, I waited for Iruka-sensei to turn around and write on the board. I flashed to my seat making Sasuke flinch and Naruto topple out of his seat.

"What the hell Hinata-chan where did you come from dattebayo?" Naruto yelled, pointing his finger at me. I shrugged, damn he just had to announce that I just got here.

"I've been here the whole time."

"Hinata-san?" Iruka questioned to get my attention. I turned towards him. "You're LATE! After school, you will help Naruto clean the classroom."

"Damn" I muttered. Naruto gave me a huge grin and fist pumped the air.

"Yatta, I will show you I'm the better cleaner Hinata-chan."

"Probably blondie, cleaning is boring. After we finish wanna get ramen and go train?"

"Hell yeah dattebayo, Ichiraku ramen here I come!" We both shared a grin then busted out laughing. For the last year, I've been training with Naruto to get him stronger. Naruto is actually pretty smart and talented when it comes to training. He works hard and does everything I do, to a lesser version for now, even if he complains the whole time.I also tried to help him in school, but it doesn't work in my favor, he's just not meant for it. His taijutsu is way less sloppy now, I'm super strict on him when it comes to his form and technique, when he does it properly, he is a force to be reckoned with. His kunai and shuriken training we get help from Shisui since I cant really explain how to do it. Sadly Naruto is way better than me at those too, especially when he was first learning versus me, he learned so much faster.

Even though I am teaching him, I make it more as a mutual training so he doesn't think I am trying too hard to be his sensei. I also decided that I would be on team 7 instead of Sakura. The way for that to happen is they put top shinobi and kunoichi with the last place boy. So since Sasuke and I will get top spots, even with my training, I told Naruto to not let anyone know how strong he is and to pretend to be dead last in everything. He doesn't have to try for schooling since he doesn't even show up sometimes, but for actual training, he has to play weak, which he hates. It works though because there has to be team 7, with all of us on it.

After class, we had to stay and clean. Naruto made it into a competition to see who could clean the most fastest, I won since I'm faster. After finishing, we went to get ramen. It, just like always, is really yummy. Miso is my favorite. At the ramen shop, I decided to give Naruto my present. I handed a box to him and he looked at me wide eyed.

"Happy Birthday Blondie. Open it." I said with a smile. Naruto jumped up and hugged me tightly, tears streaming down his face.

"You remembered. You remembered! You're my best friend Hinata-chan, you're the only person other than jiji who remembered dattebayo. Arigato!"

"How could I forget the one and only Naruto Uzamaki's 8th birthday?" I said with a huge grin threatening to rip my face. His reaction made me so sad, but so happy that he knows I care. "Ok now open it." I said bouncing in my seat, so excited for him to see what I got. He ripped the paper off and opened the small velvet box. Inside there were two silver rings. He looked at them and his face twisted into confusion.

"Eh, rings? Why?"

"They're not just rings dumbass, they are weapons."

"Coool thats awesome! Wait, how?" He responded to me still confused on why I got him rings.

"Put them on and I'll show you." He put them on each of his index fingers. "Ok so they are brass knuckled. When you add any amount of your own chakra into the rings, they will shift and cover your whole knuckle in a metal plate that enhances your punched to do triple the damage, they also protect your fists when hitting other metal, you can also one day add your chakra element into them and make them work as blades too, pretty cool right?" Naruto added chakra to his hands, another thing we've been working on, and the rings transformed into beautiful silver brass knuckles.

"This is so cool dattebayo! I'm totally going to kick ass even more with these now. You're really the best Hinata-chan." He said giving me another huge hug and his foxy grin. I chose brass knuckles as the perfect special weapon for Naruto because his wild hyperactive self is definitely going to be a heavy hitter and he uses his fists a lot, so if he uses brass knuckles it will make his power that much greater, also because they conduct chakra, when he learns wind chakra control he will be able to add it and make them like blades similar to Asuma. It's a perfect hand to hand, versatile, easy to use weapon for somebody like Naruto. They also look really badass, and the rings are pretty too. We finished eating and I paid for all of Naruto's bowls of ramen, emptying my wallet, and we headed towards out secret training ground. Only a few ninja know about the secret training ground, Naruto and I created it far into the forest away from prying eyes. The Hokage, Shisui, and some ANBU that trail Naruto are the only ones who know about it's existence.

When we reached the training ground, Naruto and I started without warm ups, then moved into our own Katas. Training alongside Naruto is nice because other than the Uchiha, he knows I have my own style I work on. Since I don't show it in the Academy, I can only practice it around him. We finished our run-throughs then I had him meditate and work on moving around his chakra within him to gain a better feel for his chakra. Finally, we sparred today, I made him use his brass knuckles to get a feel for them. The spar was better than the others, he has finally been showing his progress. His speed is higher, his hits more controlled, and he was finally able to begin to assess and counter my moves. Since I wasn't going full out, I let him land a hit and damn it actually hurt really bad. He cheered at his success and we ended the spar there. Based off Taijutsu, Naruto could now be top 4 in our class, he is just below Kiba in skill. After our training, since it's his birthday, I decided to pull a prank with him and pushed us going to the library to study sealing for next time.

"So Blondie who should we prank today?" Naruto gave me a mischievous foxy grin.

"Hokage-jiji hasn't taken me for ramen in forever. I think it's time for some payback dattebayo."

"The Hokage, that's crazy! I like the way you think Blondie, lets do it." We huddled closer and began to discuss our prank. After 30 minutes of planning, I went to the shopping area of the village and bought all of what we need, since most of the bastards wont let Naruto in their stores. I returned to our training ground, and together Naruto and I went to the Hokage's office. The office was empty, I'm guessing he was at dinner, so I helped cloak our chakras to nonexistent and we crept our way into his office and began to work. Getting in without getting caught was difficult, but surprisingly Naruto is a pro at stealth when needed and helped us get in unseen. Naruto Painted the walls as high as he could reach a light pink and, using my chakra to stick to the ceiling painted everything else a hot pink. We threw glitter all over the room and added tons of Uzumaki spirals all over the office. Not done yet, I placed cups all over the room so its impossible to step anywhere without stepping in pink or purple paint. Naruto filled his desk drawers with ramen and his chair had an invisible glue trap set up on it. At the door and window entrances, if they opened rainbow glitter paint will fall on the person. Right as Naruto finished putting up the last trap, we heard footsteps so I put Naruto on my back and we hung to the outside of the building looking in to watch the show. The door opened and the Hokage stood there in all of his glory, covered in rainbow glitter paint. Naruto began laughing uncontrollably so I covered his mouth with my hand. I was shaking trying to hold in my laughs. He looked around his room shaking his head with an almost unnoticeable smile/grimace thing. The ninja with the Hokage blanched and started freaking out, taking out some bandages to clean off some paint for the Hokage.

"That demon brat did this Lord Hokage, I will find him and punish him for you." The ninja said pissed off. Naruto tightened his grip on me in slight fear, and I growled in anger.

"Bring Naruto to me unharmed." The Hokage said, stern yet with no hint of malice towards Naruto. No way am I going to let Naru go down for this when it was my idea for a fun birthday event. Right after the ninja left, an ANBU who follows Naruto began to close in on us. Damn it, they escaped our traps. Allowing for a fast entrance, I opened the window we didn't rig and Naruto and I jumped in, ignoring as all of the paint seeped into my shoes. The ANBU in the room, standing on the ceiling, tensed but relaxed as the Hokage gave them a sign to step down. The Hokage, standing on his desk while a person cleaned up the cups, looked at me in confusion and slight amusement, before he turned to Naruto, I kneeled down and bowed.

"Lord Hokage, I am Hinata Hyuuga. You don't know me personally, but I am a friend of Naruto's. Please do not punish Naruto for this prank, it was my idea to have some fun for his birthday. I bought all of the materials and coerced Naruto into making the prank more bold. I was the one who trapped his ANBU guards and concealed our chakra to sneak in here for this. I take full responsibility and whatever punishment you have planned. Pardon Naruto as it is his birthday." I said as clear and calm as I could while kneeling in pink paint in front of the strongest man in the village. He also is in the knowledge of what is going on with my father.

"Wait Hinata-chan stop I-" I shushed Naruto from finishing his statement, still bowing.

"No Naru, you already have enough people punishing you for something that isn't your fault." At that statement, I could feel chakra spike with a minor KI from one of the ANBU.

"Rise child." The Hokage's coarse yet kind spoke out to me. I looked up at him and saw no anger so I rose and stood before him. "I had no intentions of punishing Naruto for this prank. I wanted to wish him a happy birthday. I also knew he had help, only somebody very advanced could sneak into my office unnoticed, it is surprising that it is the Hyuuga princess though. I do not plan on punishment for you either. On the contrary, I would like to give you a word of thanks." My eyes widened at his statement, and I saw an amused smile grace his old face. "You were able to sneak into my office and do a prank of this caliber. It is amusing and takes real talent even if I am covered in glitter. It also shows me how easily an enemy could have been here so I know what to fix with my security. I would also like to thank you for befriending Naruto and standing up for him even with all of the rumors going around about him. Naruto needs a friend like you, and I believe you need a friend like him." I didn't miss the knowing glint in his eyes. I lost all of my composure at this and began to beam. I fist bumped Naruto who was grinning at me and his Jiji.

"Thank you Lord Hokage. Naru, why didn't you tell me your jiji was such an awesome dude, even when covered in rainbow glitter, he was soo coool. I so though my ass was had back there but he just smiled and thanked me."

"Heh, my bad. Hey Jiji, can we take Hinata-chan to get ramen with us for my birthday pleasseee." He begged. I rolled my eyes when he accepted, only Naruto would be able to talk to the Hokage like that and have positive results.

Kiba

I left for the academy early, allowing for myself to take a relaxing walk and to get some caffeinated tea to wake myself up after another sleepless night. The Academy was another normal day, we finally increased out physical training and moved on to shinobi rules. Kunoichi classes are still the same, I'm still alone in them, Ino and Sakura don't speak to me at all, just glare. Lady Seiko seems to have noticed my discomfort with the other girls and makes sure they can't come and say things to me anymore. At the end of the day, I was walking aimlessly enjoying the heat when I heard high pitched barking coming closer and closer. I turned to my left and watched as a tiny white puppy came rushing past me. It was then that I heard Kiba's worried yells and I put two and two together. That cute little puppy is THE Akamaru.

Not wasting a second longer, I chased after the puppy. For something so young and small, he's so fast and agile. It must come with being a special Inuzuka ninken. I finally reached him and tackled him making sure not to crush him in the process. Little Akamaru started squirming around in my arms. I held him firmly and began to speak to him to calm him and let him know I wont hurt him. I also scratched behind his ears and he finally relaxed, moving his small body to snuggle more into mine, letting out small whimpers of happiness at my attention. Finally, Kiba caught up with me and skidded to a halt when he noticed I had Akamaru safely in my arms. He fave me a grin showing off his log canines.

"Akamaru there you are boy. Thanks for catching him Hinata. We were training when he just bolted." I giggled at Akamaru cooing at how he was a bad boy.

"No problem dude, he's so adorable. How long have you had him, and why didn't you tell me." I asked nonchalant. Kiba's eyes widened and he put his hands up shaking them in protest.

"Wait no, I just got him today. After some training I was going to come show him to you like I promised."

"Sureee it's not like you forgot or anything." I dragged out sarcastically.

"NO NO! I promise." Kiba shouted at me. Akamaru let out a bark seeming to be amused with the situaton. "Akamaru I did not forget."

"Oh well, I have nothing to do, can I tag along while you bond with him?" Akamaru gave a bark. It's so cool he can understand me, I wish I could understand him though, at least I have Kiba as a translator.

"Hai, Akamaru agrees too, we can make a day of it." Kiba said grinning excitedly. I put Akamaru on top of Kiba's head and we began to walk on a dog trail. Kiba was talking with Akamaru and doing some bonding through training so they can become one. It was really cool to watch. Akamaru is already smart, so instead of basic commands, which Akamaru would ignore since he didn't want to do them, instead they were training on synchronization and using their sense of smell to find one another. Every time Akamaru found found Kiba fast enough, I got to give him treats. He was so cute and his little tail wagged so fast when I would treat him. Even though they have only been together for a day, they already bonded and I can tell they are going to be the bestest of friends. Their synchronization was messy and clumsy, but by the end of the 4 hours of training, it was pretty good. Nothing like in the future where they can basically read one another's minds, but it was impressive nonetheless.

When they finished training, I went to Kiba's house to say hi to his mom, the most badass female I've met so far, Anko has the top spot in my book though. We walked into the house and Tsume was nowhere to be seen. We walked into the kitchen as I laughed at Kiba's insult to some of the boys in our class. When we entered the kitchen there was a really pretty girl who looked about 14. She had long brown hair tied up in a low ponytail, the same red markings as Kiba on her cheeks, and a wolfish grin on her face. Kiba let out a groan of fake annoyance.

"What a great way to welcome your wonderful sister home Kiba, you ass. Whose the small fry?" The girl, Hana Inuzuka said. I like her already too, she seems so cool and her sarcasm is funny. We'd get along just fine especially since she gives people nicknames too!

"Ugh Hana when did you get back?" Before they could converse, I answered Hana's question with a sly grin.

"Hinata Hyuuga, super badass shinobi in training who kicks your brothers ass all the time at your service Inuzuka-san." Hana's face flashed with recognition before she erupted in laughter. She stopped laughing, gave me a once over, sniffed me, then grinned.

"So you're Hinata, you don't seem to have a stick up your ass like the other Hyuuga. I like you small fry, you don't let Kiba's ego get too big and you smell good so we can get along. Tell me something that lets you earn food and to be able meet my dogs." Hmm, I know exactly what to say, I really want to meet her dogs. I love animals. I gave her a smirk, making Kiba and her look at me with interest.

"Have you seen the Hokage's office recently." That really peaked their interest. "I was the one who snuck in with Naruto and painted it pink and filled it with glitter and ended up unscathed. What better way to prank the big bad Hokage than to make his office fit for a princess." Kiba shouted at me saying how Naru and I are crazy. Hana smirked at me and handed me a plate of food, accepting my answer. While eating, we conversed about Hana's previous missions. She also told me embarrassing stories about Kiba, like how he licked himself clean for a week to be like a dog. I also got to meet Hana's dog and he seemed to take a liking to me since he would brush up against me a lot to get me to pet him. I also learned about how they work as vet's part time since they know so much about animals, especially canines. When Hana left for a late night training session, Kiba and I played with Akamaru, did a quick spar, and just messed around the whole time. It was really fun especially since Kiba is such a hothead and I could make him blow up and act like a wild animal. When the sun was fully set, I bid the Inuzuka family goodbye and went home to play with Hanabi, who is my sweet little princess.

Neji

Today was a free day and nobody has the Academy. I spent the morning playing with Hanabi. I love everything about her, she is the most precious thing to me. I've been trying to teach her how to run better, but she falls down a lot. I feel like time has flown by with her, I can't believe she is 2. Hanabi loves dresses and kimonos and always has to have one on. She really is the girly princess I am not. She deserves the title of Hime over me, so I always make sure to call her Hime which she loves. I also tell her stories from my past life, like cinderella and stuff, she gets so into them and swears she is going to be a princess like so much time with Mikoto, she is so well mannered and is going to be such a perfect lady when she is bigger.

After spending the morning with Hanabi, I rushed over to the branch member area of the Hyuuga compound. I turned on my Byakugan to search around for Neji, and I found him at one of the training grounds with Uncle Hizashi. Before they could see me, I went into their home and grabbed some water and snacks for them to eat after Neji finishes his training. I made my way back to the training ground and watched as Neji practiced in the gentle fist. He was so excited to finally be able to learn it since he can finally use his Byakugan for a long enough period of time. He was sweating and breathing so heavily as he tried to land a hit on his father. For being blind, Uncle is still a kick ass fighter, he is a sensory type and can sense the hits coming so he is still able to fight at such an incredibly high level. Finally, Uncle called off the training and turned towards me. Neji finally noticed my presence too.

"Hello Hinata-sama, what brings you here?" Uncle said with a small formal bow. I hate how formal he is towards me, but he is still kind.

"Ohayo Uncle, no formalities, we've talked about this. I just wanted to spend the day with Niisan, we haven't gotten to spend much time together and I'm missing him." Neji and Uncle both gave me a small smile at this.

"Hai Hinata-hime, I would like to spend the day together too. Also, arigato for the refreshments." Neji said sipping down his water. I jumped up in excitement, I gave a hug to Uncle and yanked Neji to make him stand up.

"What are we gonna do? Nothing boring, no matter how lame you think things are Niisan, I want something exciting." Neji rolled his eyes, still looking as fierce as ever.

"I would like to go to the library and work on a project for school." He said. Yes, I haven't been to the library in forever! I fist pumped and we ran off to the library. Neji grabbed us a spot to sit and we both went off finding out books. I looked around trying to find books on how to use my daggers more effectively and books on chakra manipulation. When I sat down, I saw Neji had gathered books about the 5 main shinobi Nations. We read in comfortable silence for a while, I stopped reading a few times to ask him questions about possible techniques for my daggers. Neji is so smart when it comes to combat and he thinks differently than Itachi, so when I can, I get his input on my ideas too to make sure I wont kill myself or epically fail trying to execute something.

Reading a more advanced book on chakra manipulation is so helpful, it's giving me ideas on so many things I can do with my chakra. Since I can manipulate my chakra into a point on my finger expelling it to block others chakra, it might be possible to expel it through different Tenketsu points and so when somebody hits me, it will still do the same effect as if it was with my fingers. I also think I could try to expel my chakra out of a point when another Byakugan user or med ninja hits one of my Tenketsu points to make the damage less effective. Like if somebody were to strike at my heart with chakra, if I put my chakra and expelled it as a protective coating around my heart, instead of a fatal attack, it would just send me to the hospital. I'll have to practice around with each thought for the next few months before I test it out, then if it works I can hopefully teach it and help it become more impressive with Neji's help.

Neji finished his work and he told me about the 5 Great Nations. Even with the show, there wasn't a super detailed explanation of the great Nations. It's interesting to see the nations and their relationships to one another. Right now, Neji told me that Konoha has an alliance with Suna, and that Kumo and Kiri are neutral, and Iwa is not on peaceful terms. Iwa really hates Konoha because of the Yondaime Hokage. Kumo and Suna are not on peaceful terms so and Kumo's attempted kidnapping, there is no alliance, and Kiri is just to bloody and scary for us to ally with. These topics are so interesting, and right before we left, I added a book on former treaties and their contents, at least the information we are aloud to know since ninja like to keep secrets and stuff.

After the library, Neji and I went to the grocery store and got a bunch of vegetables and stuff. Neji is the biggest health freak I've ever met, thank god protein shakes don't exist or he'd be living off of them. We bought his groceries and went home to cook. I love Neji but I want to punch him in the face sometimes. He is literally so perfect, like a real prince. He has super nice hair, how come I'm the only one without brown hair, is smart, has perfect diction, is a prodigy without extra knowledge like I am, is pretty handsome, is graceful, and is a really good cook even if its all healthy. I sat and watched as Mr. Perfect moved around the kitchen gracefully cooking us dinner. He put a bunch of vegetables on a pot and seasoned them with god knows what. The aroma of food filled the air and I could feel my mouth watering. He set down the bowl rice and assortment of colorful cooked veggies. We broke our chopsticks and thanked Kami for the food.

One bite and I was in healthy people heaven, only Neji, and maybe Mikoto, could make vegetables taste like heaven. The food was spicy and savory and I ate every last drop. I complimented Neji and he just smirked, seeming pleased with my praise. It wouldn't be him though if he didn't drop an insult about how it's my destiny to be a terrible cook forever. I pouted and he continued to 'playfully' insult my failures as a woman, in a super dick-ish and honest but not mean way. I also made him tell me more about his classmates and he had nothing good to say about anyone, to him they are all destined to be failures. I can't wait until he gets his team, then hopefully they will show him the BS in his destiny crap when Lee becomes super amazing and strong despite looking like a dipshit. Not wanting to leave, Neji and Hizashi allowed me to sleep in Neji's room, his comfort and my exhaustion let me have my first night of full sleep in months.

Choji

We went through the beginner obstacle corse today with Iruka-sensei. Instead of real kunai, they were wooden, but they still bruised when people got hit. Sasuke and I finished it with a breeze, Naruto could have finished easily too after all of our training, but he remembered to pretend to suck still, so he made sure he was klutzy and came in last doing it. It's so funny to watch Naruto pretend to suck, he over exaggerates everything and I tried so hard not to laugh at him, especially when he gives me that knowing foxy grin. Shikamaru could tell something was up when he watched Naruto with a suspicious gaze, but I don't think he's figured out what mischievous thing Naru and I are up to yet. After the obstacle course, we worked on going through basic academy katas, boring. Finally it was lunch time. Instead of eating lunch studying in the classroom like normal, I went and found Naruto, pulling him away from his stalking of Sakura. I'll never get why he likes her but oh well.

"Agh, what the hell Hinata-chan, I was just about to go talk to Sakura-chan." He pouted. I continued dragging him, ignoring his pouting.

"We are going to study sealing, I have been reading up on so that you can become a master. It's in your Uzumaki blood so you already have an affinity, you just have to learn how to use it." Naruto looked at me blankly, tilting his head to the side, then his face lit up and he fist pumped in happiness.

"Yatta! I'm going to be a seal master dattebayo. Hinata-chan, what is sealing?" I deadpanned, leave it to Naruto to be excited for something he doesn't even know about. For the next hour I taught him the basics of what sealing is, forgetting to eat.

Finally, at the end of the day I left the school and went to find Choji. Today was the big BBQ eat off and we both entered. Looking around the front of the Academy, I finally saw the wild mane of Choji's hair. I made a beeline right for him and he smiled at me when he noticed my arrival. Munching on his chips, we began to walk to the town.

"Are you ready for the BBQ Hinata-chan? I am, I cant wait to enjoy all of those delicious meats." He said basically drooling. I cant blame him, the meat here is, especially from Yakiniku Q, is really, really good.

"Fuck yeah I am, I about to out eat all of those old geezers." I said confidently. A fire lit in the normally sweet and timid boys eyes.

"No way Hinata-chan, I am going to be the champion, I refuse to lose." I laughed at his ferocity. Choji always can make me laugh and feel good, he's just so sweet and caring. We continued our journey, talking about life. Choji told me more in depth on how he and Shika became besties and what his goals for becoming a shinobi are. Choji is too sweet, his goals are to become strong and protect the people he loves. We have similar goals, yet they are very different. It feels good to know that I will have Choji to watch my back, not many people I can truly say they will protect me forever. Choji is one of the few I wholeheartedly believe he will do his best to protect me straight up. Finally making it to the competition area, I noticed I was the only girl there. The area was filled with old chunky men, they looked at Choji and I before laughing at us. They were totally underestimating us.

I could see the desire to win burning in Choji's eyes, we shared a glance, the unspoken message to win was spoken. Finally the bell signaled for us to start wolfing down the gigantic plate of various meats rang. I could hear the scarfing down of food around me and after some time, people collapsing out of their chairs from being too full. I ignored the burning of my stomach and continued, until the announcer told us to stop. I made it about 1/2 way done. I looked over to Choji and noticed his plate was empty. He won! I praised him bowing down to the master. I'm never doing that again though, I feel like I'm going to explode. I don't have the same impressive ability to convert my food into chakra like Choji does so I cant eat as much as him and I cant eat a ton without feeling like I'm going to be sick. Man that would be so useful so I could eat more.

Choji noticed my green face and helped me get home, lightly chastising me for eating too much. I just responded with the simple fact that I wanted to hang out with him doing something he liked so I did it to the best of my ability. That got me a big hug from him.

Instead of going home, I was feeling better so Choji decided to take me to one of his favorite places. We went to a daycare for babies of on-duty shinobi. Choji really likes babies and must visit them a lot. When we walked into the place, some of the guardians there welcomed him back with happy smiles. Choji led me around and told me about each of the babies he knows as he cradled them. He's really good with kids and everytime they cried, he would hold them and they'd stop, it was magic. I was enjoying watching him look so happy with the kids when I saw a small baby with green hair and blue eyes. He was such a cute, exotic looking little boy. We locked eyes and had a staring contest until I smiled at him, he smiled back. I went over to him and held him in my arms, his name tag said his name was Hydeoshi.

I cooed to him and made my way back over to Choji, holding Hydeoshi securely in my arms. This is just proof that Choji has one of the kindest hearts, he loves so much it's beautiful to see, one day he is going to make the best husband and father for someone. The rest of the afternoon, Choji and I spent playing with the babies. I never left Hydeoshi, something about him made me form a bond, I know I will come back to see him and hopefully meet his parents sometime. Seeing all of the babies helped me put into perspective all I am working to save, it helped ease the stress, knowing I am working for something bigger than myself and my fantasies. I bid farewell to Choji and we made plans to come back to the daycare as many times as we can together.

Sasuke

Today with Iruka-sensei, we did the basic physical training and tested on types of Chakra and chakra natures. Easy peasy, the real surprise came from my Kunoichi classes. For some reason the other girls in my class have taken it upon themselves to make my life sucky. The worst part isn't even the bullying, its that Ino and Sakura just glare at me all of the time. At least with them they have a sort of friendly rivalry, but with me its like they hate me every time they see me. It hurts and makes it difficult to even want to show up to class. It also sucks on the ninja aspect of class that I am so far ahead of the other girls, it just makes their tormenting worse. In class I also excel at the dances we do, which makes everyone pissed that such an ungraceful tomboy can look so pretty dancing. The way I make up for it is that I suck at basically all other womanly things, I still cant do a proper tea ceremony and for the life of me I can't remember how dishes are supposed to set up. I also can't cook, can't dress myself properly in a Yukuta, can't do any fancy hairstyles, basically a lot of proper woman/housewife stuff I fail at and I don't know why. Somehow I cannot use the grace I have when fighting and dancing into my everyday life, and I just don't want to use proper language, I like the way I talk and don't want to change it just because it's unbecoming of a young lady. I also know that I could possibly learn this stuff, but I'm so afraid that if I do, I will never regain my friendships, jealousy does bad things to people.

Lady Seiko noticed my issues with the other girls, and because she is a scary and too smart woman, she figured out my failures and problems quickly. Taking that into consideration is why today was so wild. Lady Seiko had me stay after class and offered to personally train me for the next few years, until I become a Chunin. She said I have potential and that she sees herself in me, how I have no clue. She explained how she will teach me all of the things I will lack without a mother and she will not force me to change my personality, she will just help me become adept at being the ideal woman whenever I need to use skills like those, ninja wise instead of wife wise like the other girls. She also comforted me with my issues with the girls and tried explaining how jealousy works in their minds. I still don't fully understand why boys seem to matter so much, but whatever. I accepted, Lady Seiko is a badass and was one of the top Jounin of her time, denying her would be a waste. So now, I have a strong female figure (besides Mikoto who I will always see as my surrogate mother) to look up to.

I left my meeting with Lady Seiko and had a wide grin on my face. It feels so good to have a woman, especially one scary and perfect like her, to want to train me and take care of me on the girl stuff boys just don't understand. I was surprised to see Sasuke waiting for me when I made it to the Academy to pick up my stuff.

"Whats up with the dopey smile freak?" Sasuke questioned me with a smirk, as soon as I came into his view.

"None of your business duckbutt. Whats up, why did you wait, usually you go off training after school?" Sasuke turned from me and shrugged, pushing his slight blush down.

"I need a training partner today since Aniki is gone again, and I was going to find some cats again and wanted to see if you could come, only if you don't fangirl though." He said in his snarky joking tone. I just gave him a mocking smile.

"Oh my gosh, THE Sasuke-kun is inviting me to fight him and find cats. How romantic I might die, eep" I fake fangirled, making him laugh and cringe at the same time.

"You sound just like them." He then started walking away from me. He turned his head and with his little smile said, "You coming?" I did a few fast steps to catch up with him. I jumped on his back and made him carry me, which he did so wonderfully. It's pretty easy because I'm short and he's tall for our age. Sasuke told me all about his and Itachi's last training session and that he got slight praise for learning a lightning jutsu called "Electromagnetic Murder." Even though I live with him, we don't have a ton of time to talk and train together anymore so it's nice to just hang out with the Sasuke I know, before all of the Uchiha craziness goes down. Sasuke and I did some training together, me working on my Snake jutsu and him working on his lightning jutsu. It was fun and we were both drained after. Then we made it to the 'crazy cat ladies' home and she gave us a booklet and ink to stamp the paws of the cats down for ID purposes.

We were given cat ears that allow us to understand the cats and were sent on our way. Sasuke and I bantered the whole way, me making fun of his cute kitty ears and him making fun of me for being a klutz. We caught a few cats, it's really amusing. Since I met Sasuke and Itachi, they have gone off and done this together, its fun to actually be doing it. The first time I heard a cat talk, I almost lost my mind. It was so weird. My bewildered expression made Saskue laugh at me for a long time, calling me dumb for not expecting the cats to talk even when we were given the headbands. I just grumbled in defeat and kept looking for cats. Some of the cats are so funny and talk so badly, they curse as much as Hidan. When we were chasing a particularly fast tabby cat, I heard shriek of "Sasuke-kun!" Sasuke and I stopped, turned to each other fear evident in both of our eyes, then looked behind us. There was a herd of about 25 girls all with hearts in their eyes for Sasuke. They saw me and glowered, I saw my life flash before my eyes. Sasuke grabbed my arm and we both yelled.

"RUN!" For girls who are so slow and weak in the Academy, damn can they run fast. Their endurance seemed endless when chasing their precious Sasuke. After what seems like forever, Sasuke pulled me into a tree and the fangirls gave up searching. I looked over to Sasuke and he looked so pale and frightened, I busted out laughing.

"You should see your face, you look terrified." His face turned from fear to annoyance.

"You were scared too, fangirls are crazy." I laughed harder especially since he's right and fangirls like his are terrible and frightening creatures that will rip you apart.

"True, that was still fun though. Nothing says bonding like running away from crazed girls." Sasuke gave me a quick snort at that and then pushed me out of the tree before jumping down after me. Deciding its safe, we walked home together, me on his back yet again, Sasuke walking with a pep in his step. I think he feels macho when he carries me around. We made it home, took turns showering and played with Hanabi together while talking about stuff to study for with the upcoming tests to pass to the next year. We laid close to one another, ready for bed, and I decided that I could take a break from planning before my mind implodes so I fell asleep with the warmth of Sasuke.