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.

11. Fight Club

All of the survivors of the forest of death were standing in lines with their teammates, below where the Hokage and most of the Leaf Village Jonin were stationed. My team, Shika's team, Kiba's team, Neji's team, Gaara's team, Dosu's team, Kabuto's team, and a Hoshigakure team were all in the finals. I know about the Hoshigakure team, but only one of the teammates looks relatively strong. He was wild looking and built like a bear. Naruto, Sasuke, and I were holding hands, Sasuke gripping mine in a death grip to ease the pain of his throbbing cruse mark. I watched Anko as she eyed Sasuke warily, pouting a bit because nobody listened to taking Sasuke out of the preliminaries.

I can't imagine all of the unwanted thoughts and memories of Orochimaru that this situation is bringing back for her. A few of the Genin were fidgeting nervously, others looked eager. I didn't miss the fearful glances Ino was giving Naruto, Choji just looked worried. Them being best friends, Shikamaru must have informed Choji, but Choji's heart is so big and loving, I know he harbors no ill feeling towards Naruto, he just doesn't want to fight him.

The Hokage finally stood up, clearing his throat to grab all of our attention. The room went deathly silent and the Hokage gave us all a small smile, congratulating all of us on making it past the second part of the exams. He explained how the point of the exams is to foster friendship between the nations, to balance power by having exams so not everyone can just become Chunin in each village, and to show off the skills of each village by showcasing the talent of the hopeful future Chunin with a Battle Royale. In my opinion, its more like a fight club or non-population control version of Hunger Games, presenting the village's best Genin on a silver platte as they fight and eliminate their competition. Finally the master swordsman, Hayate, stepped forward, his eyes sunken in and darkened with sickness. After a coughing fit, he spoke up.

"Uh... We have to have a preliminary exam before we move onto the real one." He scratched his cheek, and coughed again, letting the information sink in. A few of the Genin went pale, Ino especially when she took a glance at Naruto. Gaara let out an intense KI, smirking in excitement, making one of the Hoshigakure Genin blanch and pale significantly.

"What? What do you mean by that?" Shikamaru called out, thoroughly annoyed. Most of the Genin nodded along in agreement, save for my team, the sand team, and the sound team. Zaku was looking a little worse for wear, he was sitting in some kind of wheelchair thingie, it was floating, little sound waves seemed to propel it off the ground. He'd be like Professor X if he was bald and less of a hotheaded douche bag.

"I'm sorry, I just don't understand the point of a preliminary round. Why cant we just move on to the third round?" Sakura said while looking at Sasuke, probably wanting his approval for her success and eagerness to move on. He didn't even spare her a glance. Hayate coughed again, looking slightly annoyed at the questioning.

"Well... you see. The first and second exams might have been too easy. The fact is, we never expected so many of you to still be here. According to the rules of the Chunin Exams, a preliminary round can be held at any stage in order to reduce the number of candidates remaining. At this stage, we need to speed things up a bit, as Lord Hokage mentioned, the final round, a lot of important guests will be in attendance. We cant afford to waste their time, they come to only watch the best. Soo" Hayate drawled out. "If any of you feel you're not in top physical condition, now's your chance to leave." He coughed into his sleeve, then looked back, eyes trailing over every one of us. His eyes stopped by Kabuto and the Hoshigakure trio. To my surprise, instead of Kabuto raising his hand, 2 of the Hoshigakure ninjas had their hands raised.

The bear like teen was the only one who remained of his squad. Kabuto sent a smirk my way, when my eyes were narrowed onto his form. I don't know what game he's playing at, and having two new competitors changes this game completely. "The exams will start now, and the winners will be decided by one-on-one combat, sudden death." More groans and complaints filled the air, but I ignored them all, theorizing about Kabuto's role in staying, and examining the large man. He seems to rely on strength and taijutsu, when I activated my Byakugan and focused on his chakra, it was not large enough to be a ninjutsu user, and was too wild to be a proficient genjutsu user. His chakra flowed like a wild animal, similar to Kiba's but more deep and dark in presence, if any chakra represented an angry mamma Bear, it was his.

"Open the panel." A feminine voice called out, I deactivated my Byakugan and faced back to where the Jonin and Hokage sat. They then ushered us up onto the railings, each team standing together. Kakashi finally made his appearance, flickering right in-between Naruto and I. He placed his hands on both of our heads, patting mine and ruffling Naruto's hair, a closed eye smile on his face.

"Congratulations my cute Genin, I knew you'd pass." He said, his voice bored yet amused, a combination only he manages. His dark grey eyes carefully examined each of us, stopping on Sasuke longer than the rest of us. His eye narrowed slightly, but as soon as it did, it was gone, and his eye returned to his half lidded state. I leaned slightly into his touch, missing his presence more than I thought. Something about having him there was comforting, especially since I know he will protect all of us, and has the strength to do it. Kakashi finally removed his hands and turned out attention back to the board. The red lettering was flickering through letters until 2 names popped up: Sasuke Uchiha vs. Yoroi Akado. Sasuke glared intently at the screen, grabbing onto his shoulder. Yoroi was already in the arena, smirking a condescending smirk up at Sasuke, who had yet to move. The squeals of Sakura and Ino were loud and they were cheering on their 'Sasuke-kun.' Kakashi whispered in Sasuke's ear, getting a grunt in acceptance. Saskue took another step to leave, but before he could, I got his attention. I grinned at him.

"He absorbs chakra, don't let him get his hands on you. You better kick his ass duckbutt, or I'll tell Shisui to ban you from tomatoes." He smirked at me.

"Like I would do anything less, freak." Sasuke turned his eyes back to Yoroi, studying him intently, analyzing how to finish this fight without the use of any of his ninjutsu's. He made his way to the center, shoulders back portraying his confidence, no trace of pain or fear anywhere on him. Hayate stood between the two as they exchanged fierce glares. After both consented, Hayate jumped back onto the railing.

"Alright...Begin."

Yoroi shot at Sasuke, moving quickly. His gloved hand was reached out, ready to touch Sasuke. Even a slight touch allows him to absorb his opponents chakra. Sasuke, although slower from exhaustion of fighting off the presence of Orochimaru's claim, was able enough to dodge, flipping himself sideways, away from the out stretched hand. Sasuke landed in a crouch and grabbed out his kunai, the slight glint coming off the handles showed the ninja wire he had already attached on it. Yoroi grunted in annoyance, planting his right foot to propel himself back at Sasuke, faster than before.

Yoroi was relentless in his attacks, aiming for even the slightest graze against the raven haired boy, but every swipe was met with a skillful dodge that came from the relentless training regime Kakashi and Zabuza put him through. Yoroi's attacks were full of brute force, heavy and hard hitting, but he lacked the speed needed to truly land a hit on Sasuke. Even in his weakened state, the difference in skill was apparent. Sasuke held his kunai in his hands as he dodged effortlessly, the smirk on his face made it apparent that he was playing a bit with Yoroi. The teammate of Kabuto was getting more and more frustrated, his face was scrunched up in anger and he was spewing out insults to Sasuke, who merely shrugged them off, taking worse insults from Naruto and I every day.

"Teme, beat this weirdo already, stop acting like a wimpy Uchiha and fight back!" Naruto screamed at Sasuke, lighting the fire of their rivalry. Sasuke's smirk widened and he switched his stance from defensive to offensive. He threw his two kunai, crossing them over one another, having them land on either side of Yoroi. Right as he was going to launch an attack, the curse mark began to glow a bright red, slowly expanding. It sent Sasuke down on his knees, gritting his teeth in pain. I gripped the handrails tightly, Naruto doing the same beside me. Yoroi was stunned like everyone else at the mass amount of chakra that just burst, giving time for Sasuke to look back at us. Naruto, Kakashi, and I all gave Sasuke smiles and thumbs up, letting him know he can do it.

With his strength, Sasuke pushed himself back onto his feet, forcing the curse mark to retreat back into the 3 tomoe form. Yoroi, seeing Sasuke's weakness decided to attack, but when Sasuke pulled his hands back, Yoroi was locked into place by the ninja wires Sasuke sent out earlier. Sasuke moved quickly behind Yoroi, sending a powerful punch to his solar plexus while simultaneously using the ninja wire to drag Yoroi off the ground and send him shooting into the air. Sasuke followed the flying Genin, landing a few punches on the incapacitated man's face, then finished with an axe kick, sending Yoroi to the ground, cracking it as the man got knocked the fuck out.

Hayate called the match announcing Sasuke as the winner. Sasuke finally gave back into the pain and fell to the ground, only to be caught by Kakashi. Together they left to seal the curse mark. The next match was Kankuro versus Masume. Kankuro destroyed him, it was brutal to say the least. The entire match, Naruto said no words, but his glares were heated and directed to Kankuro. Something happened to make Naruto pissed at him and at the end of the fight, Naruto vowed to defeat Kankuro. Angry with him for picking on Konohamaru and me, treating the shinobi way like it is nothing, and just being a heartless dick in general. The Shino versus Zaku match was boring, Shino is a badass and I would never pick to fight him, and with Zaku having a broken back, curtesy of Naruot, Zaku could do nothing against Shino's bugs.

Sakura versus Ino was interesting, they both are still not top notch fighters, but way better than at the academy. Sakura placed a genjutsu on Ino, Ino did the mind transfer, it ended in a tie. Tenten versus Temari was a rough match to watch, I love Tenten, her skills in weaponry and Taijustu are nothing but amazing, but her opponent was the perfect counter for her. Temari ended the fight quickly, showing the cruelty of what the Sand has taught them. Shikamaru and Kin fought and Shikamaru decimated her, using his new technique we came up with, he impaled her with many kunai, ending the fight quick and bloody. He had a score to settle with her for trying to kill me I guess. The board finally showed the fight Team 7 has been waiting for, Naruto versus Kiba. My heart was pumping quickly, excited for Naruto to finally reveal himself and show more of his true skill set.

Naruto grabbed me into a tight hug, the excitement radiating off of him.

"Hell yeah! It's finally your time to show everyone who Naruto Uzumaki really is!"

"Hai, Dog breath isn't going to know what hit him dattebayo!" Blondie shouted, releasing me and jumping down into the arena, a blinding and confident smile on his whiskered face.

"How lucky am I, I got the dead last, the weakest one here. I'm going to mop the floor with him, Right Akamaru!" Kiba laughed out. Man for being my friend, sometimes he's such a cocky dick. Him and Naruto are the weirdest of friends, both hotheaded and wild, Kiba's just more of an asshole.

"Sorry Kiba, don't take it personal when I blow you away! i've been holding back and now it's my time to shine dattebayo!" Naruto called up at Kiba, who was smiling a triumphant wolfish grin. I love Kiba, he's my self-proclaimed rival and best friend, like a asshole yet loving older brother, but Naruto is going to kick his ass so badly and I can't wait for his ego to get stomped on a bit. Kiba growled out, annoyed at Naruto's mouth, but before he could jump down there and start yelling at Naruto, Ino grabbed his arm.

"Kiba, don't fight Naruto, I saw what he did in the forest. You'll lose... he's, he's a monster." My blood boiled, Naruto isn't a demon, Kuruma isn't one either, I mean right now he is, but he's just angry at humans for good reason. I get why she's worried, but calling him a monster is too far.

"Yeah yeah whatever, he's just a little twerp. Stop being such a girl Ino." Kiba ignored her protests and jumped into the ring. I flashed right up to Ino, pinning her to the wall with my forearm at her neck. Everyone's eyes were on us. My eyes flashed with danger, the air around us becoming colder. Sakura eeped and Ino froze in shock.

"Don't you dare call him that..." I bit out, I was ready to tell her off, bring her head out of her ass and defend one of the people I vowed to protect from naive people like her. A hand was placed on each of my shoulders. I looked down to see the gloved hand of my beloved sensei and the tan hand of Shikamaru. They pulled me back, Kakashi leading me away from them to watch the match, Shikamaru and Shino following to stand beside me. I took a deep breath and watched in anticipation, my anger replaced with excitement yet again.

"Lets go Kiba, show that loser what you can do." Sakura called out for her teammate. I knew everyone but Neji's team, Team 10, Shikamaru, Choji, and Kakashi were thinking Naruto was doomed to lose. Kiba is strong and fast, he's better at fighting too with our sparring, but he is no where near Naruto's current level, and he never will be. Naruto will surpass us all, and he is already on his way. Hayate stood in between the two loudmouthed, animalistic friends of mine, silencing heir argument. He told them the rules and jumped away, leaving them to fight. Kiba pointed his index finger at Naruto.

"Listen here you weakling, I'm starting to feel sorry for you, so, I'll finish you off in one shot, okay." Kiba stated, feigning pity for Naruto. Naruto just put on his foxy grin and pointed back to Kiba.

"Man you're even dumber than you look if you think you can beat me. Like I said, I've been holding back, but not anymore. Now you can see the real power of Naruto Uzumaki, future Hokage dattebayo!" A few of the Jonin gasped, looking to Kakashi to confirm what he said earlier in the meeting. The Genin just looked uninterested, well everyone but Dosu, who had sweat trailing down his face.

"Yeah right squirt, even if you were holding back, you cant beat Akamaru and I." Kiba crouched down, doing his Beast Mimicry jutsu. His nails grew out like claws and his body crouched to be even more like a feral dog. He dug his heels into the ground, shooting at a speed that proved him the fastest boy in the academy, sending a strong elbow into Naruto's stomach. Naruto went flying back into the wall, cracking it on impact. That could have been a K.O. shot if it wasn't for Naruto being used to attacks like that from Zabuza. Kiba on the other hand, did not expect Naruto to get up, so he turned his back and began to gloat to Hayate, who just shook his head, watching Naruto get up. Sakura gasped loudly, shocked that Naruto was still standing and didn't look very hurt, aside from the trail of blood down his lip and the cement pieces in his blonde hair.

"No way, how is he still standing from an attack like that. Is that really Naruto, was he really holding back?" Sakura questioned, only to be met with silence from everyone, too engrossed in the fight to reply. Kiba heard a laugh from Naruto, and spun around, his eyebrows raised in surprise at Naruto still standing.

"You think that will take me down, I'm going to be Hokage someday so don't EVER UNDERESTIMATE ME AGAIN!" Naruto shouted out, determination burned in every word.

"You're all talk, you can take a hit, but look at you, you're already bleeding by my hand. For such a big talker, it's time to take it up a notch. Come on Akamaru, lets teach this squirt a lesson." Akamaru barked in agreement and like the loyal, adorable dog he is, he appeared by Kiba's side, fangs bared ready to fight. Together in the perfect tandem they worked on for so long, they both went running at Naruto. Kiba threw down smoke bombs, blocking Naruto's sight, readying his attacks. Kiba uses his nose and didn't need sight, it was perfect if he was going against someone else. Naruto sent out a large blast of wind, sending Kiba and Akamaru flying, countering their attack, and dispersing all of the dark smoke. Eyes widened in shock, a Genin, especially one like Naruto using wind ninjutsu without looking tired, and so proficiently was the first domino to fall in solidifying the idea that Naruto really was holding back, and that he, like his teammates is nothing to mess with. Kiba got back up, brushing off the dirt as he growled.

"What the heck was that. No way can a shrimp like you use elemental jutsus." Kiba yelled in anger and disbelief. "It doesn't matter, this fight is over." Kiba transformed Akamaru into a clone of himself, and did the hand seals for his special clan technique: Fang Over Fang. The attack was harsh and wild, but a perfect match for Naruto who fought the same way. Naruto dodged one of the wild torrents, it drilling into the ground instead, and send a more concentrated burst of wind chakra, using the Wind Cutter technique. It landed and sent the other torrent flying into the wall. Kiba's jutsu ended and Akamaru poofed back into himself sitting in the hole he drilled into the ground. Kiba shakily stood back up, his face was covered in little cuts and his jacket was torn to shreds from Naruto's wind.

Kiba, not ready to back down, ignored the coughed up blood and ran at Naruto engaging him in hand to hand. Kiba was fast, faster than Naruto, but with the help of training, Naruto managed to dodge most of Kiba's blows, and the ones that landed didn't stop him from fighting. Naruto added chakra to his hands, activating his brass knuckles, and began to attack Kiba mercilessly. His never ending energy, Naruto didn't look all that tired yet, he was breathing heavy but I know he could go on for days more if he wanted to. Kiba struggled to keep up with Naruto's attacks, the wild frenzy Naruto fought with made it hard to dodge, and the force Naruto is able to use weakened Kiba until finally, Naruto landed a hit to Kiba's face. Kiba slumped to the floor knocked out.

"The winner is Naruto Uzumaki." Naruto was running around cheering for himself, the Hokage smiled a warm smile, Kakashi leaned into the wall as Gai praised his student's youthfulness, I was cheering loudly alongside Lee and Choji, Shikamaru looked pleased, Gaara looked thirsty for Naruto's blood, and many of the other Genin were baffled at Naruto's display. There was no doubt left in anyone's minds that Naruto was holding back, he proved to everyone that he was strong and worthy of recognition.

The next fight was Neji versus Choji. That shocked the hell out of me, now I have no clue who I am going to fight. The battle was quick and easy, Neji insulted Choji, Choji got mad but Neji was too strong and ended the fight in one hit with his Palm Rotation. Kabuto fought against the Hoshigakure bear of a man, Mitsunari, and trashed him. Mitsunari was strong but clumsy and Kabuto was too quick on his feet and knocked out his opponent with his medical knowledge. Kabuto definitely held back and made it look like he was just a slightly skilled Genin, but whatever.

Then came Gaara versus Lee. The fight was epic on so many levels, Lee truly is a fucking beast and deserves more credit than he gets, just like Shino, but in the end, Gaara came out on top. The surprise came when he was supposed to try to kill Lee, something stopped Gaara, he looked pained and conflicted, so he never crushed lee too badly, Lee still ended up in critical condition, but less serious than last time. It's progress for my psycho panda. The problem was after the fight, Baki looked pissed at Gaara, probably sensing Gaara's lack of eagerness to destroy the leaf now.

Then, the final match came. Mine. I was fighting against Dosu, the rotten sound asshole who looks like a fucking mummy with a hunchback and a pimp jacket. Of course me being the asshole I am, said that directly to his face, pissing him off at my foul mouth and rudeness. The shock people get by seeing how the Hyuuga heiress is so unladylike always amuses me. Hayate stood in between Dosu and I, coughing up a lung, and when he retreated to the stands, our match begun.

"Listen little girl, just give up, you are no match for me. Keep fighting and I'll kill you." Dosu huffed out as he ran to me, his gauntlet raised for an attack. I hopped back to a safe distance, activating my Byakugan and forced some chakra into my fists for a strong attack.

"Fuck that, I already know your little sound tricks and how to counter them, plus you tried to attack us when we were down, I don't take nicely to mindless assholes like you hurting my friends." I aimed my fist at the ground and punched it, releasing my chakra at impact. The ground up to Dosu shattered completely; many shouts and gasps filled the air. A lot of people here haven't seen me fight, at least not to this level, and I can't wait to show more, along with my team. The Jonin were probably most shocked and as cocky as it sounds, I felt my ego get stroked a bit at the reactions I heard. Dosu jumped into the air, his visible eye widened in pure shock.

The moment he realized I was strong like my other teammate he fought, I know he was ready to piss himself, at least I hope so. I love my taijutsu, it's one of my main specialties besides water, but I need to keep this match a long distance one, I cannot let Dosu get any where close enough to mess with my hearing. The only problem is I don't fully know the range of his device. Dosu landed onto the unscathed ground, eyes following my every movement. I started to make hand signs for my own version of the Water snake jutsu. I added lightning to it and it's electrified to allow for me to stun my opponent just long enough so I could body flicker in for a K.O.

Before I could finish the seals, Dosu sent a shockwave of his sound chakra stuff. I thought I was far enough away, but I wasn't and it hit me dead on. It was an extremely unpleasant feeling, My ears were ringing like someone just blew an airhorn right in my ear. My vision went dizzy for a second, and with my hearing off, so was my calibration. I couldn't finish the seals and the jutsu ended before it began. I went to my knees, trying my best to not puke. Dosu came in front of me and it was too late for me to realize it, I couldn't hear him, my ears were still ringing blocking out all other sounds. He punched straight into my face, releasing another wave of chakra from his gantlet. This one hurt even more than the last, and sent me skidding backwards. I couldn't hold it in anymore and puked up blood then laid down. Hayate stood above my form, probably ready to call the match, but I raised my hand to stop him.

I wanted to continue my fight, and I'm not going to underestimate him anymore, I may know about Dosu, but I don't know every move he's going to make. He's not just a character anymore, he's real and can hurt me. It's time that I accept that and I need to fight, I am going to win. I stood up, ignoring the deafness in my ears and made the same hand signs, this time much faster. I concentrated on the water molecules in the air, focusing down to the atomic structure of them, forcing them to move and become tangible, visible water. I molded the chakra inside of my body too, forcing it to convert to the static of lightning and I expended it from my hands, pushing it into the water I molded from the air, Forming a large water serpent with lightning coursing through it like it's veins. I sent the snake slithering through the air, heading to Dosu at amazing speed and when Dosu tried to dodge, he wasn't quick enough, the snake brushed his side, sending my lightning chakra into Dosu, putting him into a very, very temporary paralysis state by blocking his chakra points momentarily.

After help from Kakashi, Zabuza, my father, and Shikamaru, I figured out how to use my lightning as an extension of my gentle fist, it is unreliable, takes up a lot of chakra, and does not block chakra pathways effectively like the gentle fist, but using the static shock from lightning, as well as my chakra, I can block a persons chakra points if I'm able to hit them with the jutsu, which is why it has to be combined with water since water is a conductor for electricity. I only have a 2 second window of paralysis with this jutsu, but it's enough time. I body flickered to be right upon Dosu, and with a sickening crack, I released as much chakra as I could into my kick. I brought my foot down, shattering Dosu's metal gauntlet and his in the process, ending the fight.

I sat on the ground and Hayate came down and called the fight. I still couldn't hear anything, but I could see the excitement my friends had in the stands, as well as a lot of bewildered looks from other competitors and the Jonin sensei's. The medical team collected fur coat man on a stretcher and carried him off. A few medical ninja came up to me, kneeling down to meet me eye to eye. Their lips were moving but I couldn't make out anything they were saying. My head felt like it was going to explode. I brought my hands up to grip my ears, hoping putting external pressure would help relieve the ringing. Finally, they realized I couldn't hear anything and carried me into an empty room where an orange haired lady cleaned off the blood, wrapped my head, and began to heal me. After a little while, the ringing stopped and my headache became more manageable. The doctor lady came back in, told me about the final battle of the exams, and after a once over, she released me.

I ran out and made a beeline for the living center of the village. I knew right away who I was going to go see.

I knocked on the apartment door, rocking back and forth on my heels while waiting. There were some loud crashes followed by a loud string of curses that would make a sailor blush. I giggled at the sound. The ruckus stopped and the door was thrown open. I glomped the tall bulky man, knocking him slightly off balance.

"Zabuza-sempaiiiiiii!" I shouted, doing my best Tobi impersonation. Zabuza grunted in extreme annoyance; yet, he wrapped his large arms around me and held me up.

"Fucking brat, waking me up when I finally got to sleep. What the hell do you want now." Zabuza growled out. Since its like 2:30 and he was sleeping, he must have been on a mission and just got back. After intense interrogations and testing of his loyalty, plus the vouching of Kakashi and my father, Zabuza was put on the assassination squad for Konoha to make money, and was placed as my protector when he proved himself to my father, something about the clan princess needing protection. Which is pretty sucky since I still always have people watching over me, but with Zabuza, my 'hidden' Hyuuga guard duty is shrinking.

"You can sleep soon. Guess what sempai! I passed the second part of the Chunin exams. There is a month for me to prepare for my battle against one of the strongest Genin, he's at my level. I need you to train me for the third part of the Chunin exams. I still have so much to learn from you, I need to perfect my water style and you are one of the best to teach me. Pleaseee!" I gave Zabuza my best puppy dog eyes, knowing threatening him would only make him laugh at me, then attack with his sword. Zabuza's demonic glare was still on his face, but I knew he was cracking and would give in, mainly so he could enjoy the torture of a month straight of training me into the ground.

"You really think you can handle my training for a month. I'm not going to hold back, if you really want to be the best at water ninjutsu, I will beat the skills into you. You will listen to everything I say, no arguments. I didn't take it easy on Haku, don't expect me to take it easy on you. Training with Kakashi will seem like child's play compared to what I have in store for you. I'm going to run you into the ground." Zabuza had a dark sadistic energy surrounding him, he let out a dark booming chuckle. I pushed myself out of his arms, a bit creeped out at the pure excitement he was showing on being able to 'run me into the ground.' If my dad's punishments were hard, this might actually kill me. There is one thing doing physical training until you drop, but doing chakra training until you drop, that is a form of exhaustion that could be considered torture. It feels like your life force is actually drained from your body.

"Hai Sempai, I will kick your training's ass." I said determined. Zabuza chuckled a bit, and it was at that moment I knew... I fucked up.

"You got guts kid, now I get to see the skills you've been hiding from me. Training will be everyday from 4:30 am to 6 pm. I'm not Kakashi and I wont be late, and I don't want my strength to be dragged through the mud from a weak protégé so I will not tolerate lateness or complaints. You will see why they call me a demon very soon. Now get the hell out of my sight and let me sleep." He slammed the door in my face and I fist pumped, ecstatic that I get the full attention of my Sempai to train me. This way I can finally hone my water ninjutsu and help work out the problems Shika and I can't solve. I left Zabuza's complex and headed to Shisui's house.

I raised my hand to knock on the door, but before I could, it was slid open revealing Shisui standing there with a proud smile on his pale Uchiha face. His sensing skills have become as good if not better than Hizashi's in his blindness. He knows exactly who and where people around him are without effort, when I try to do that good, I have to concentrate really hard. I was enveloped into a hug, and I quickly melted into his large frame, his familiar chakra: a bright hum of excited, yet peaceful water brought me comfort. I always wondered why a fire user had more water reminiscent chakra, it probably has to do with his name.

"Imouto, Sasuke came home and told me everything. You did such a good job against that Snake freak. I'm so sorry I wasn't there to protect you, I know he's scary, I know. I'm so proud of you, I'm so proud. You did so good, you don't have to be so strong and stubborn anymore." All the fear, self loathing, and sadness I was suppressing since Orochimaru showed up was surfaced with Shisui's words. I had to be strong for Sasuke, but I finally broke down. My whole body was shaking wildly so Shisui tightened his grasp and ran his fingers through my hair. His scent and large body, like my father's made me feel at home and safe.

"I froze, he was so scary, I tried to be strong and fight him but I was so scared. I feel so weak, I couldn't stop him from hurting Sasuke. Why am I so weak, why!" I cried out into Shisui's chest. Shisui enveloped his chakra around me. It was warm and kind similar to eating cookies on a snowy day. My body immediately stopped shaking at the comfort he provided me and I allowed myself to cry all of my pain away, getting myself lost in the feelings of his embrace and his chakra running across my skin. He repeated how proud of me he was, and after half an hour, I was calm enough to tell him my side of the story, the pieces Sasuke was incapacitated for. His chakra flow became agitated as I told him what Orochimaru said to me, something was wrong with the situation but I couldn't for the life of me figure out what. Shishi must have had an idea, but refused to tell me.

"Ok ok, enough with this emotional stuff, so tell me. Whose butt are you kicking in the final round of the exams. I feel really bad for whoever it is, haha the poor soul. You might be worse to fight that 'tachi-chan was, he was at least silent and didn't trash talk his opponents." Shisui teased. I looked up and saw Shisui's familiar shit-eating grin. "I mean, you just never stop, always finding a way to insult your opponent no matter how strong they are. Naruto just talks them and annoys them, but through that he can change people. You just aggravate people through indirect insults, especially when you emasculate men. Maybe Zabuza will beat your loud mouth out of you." Shisui let out a super masculine giggle. "Ohh, I can just imagine your adorable face pouting, trying to look angry." I turned around in his embrace and tackled him into the ground, punching his chest over and over, hard enough to feel but not enough to hurt.

"Shisui-nii, you asshole, It's not my fault I can't stop, you taught me all that I know anyways, so basically it's your fault."

"Nope, you were a genius and already had a big mouth, I just honed in on your skills." I pouted, which soon turned into a happy smile as Shisui continued his laughing and incessant taunting. After a while, we stopped and decided to go out to eat, having both of us cooking would end poorly and when Sasuke got back, he'd murder both of us for using his stuff. We sat down at a small civilian cafe that has the best Dango in Konoha. Shisui, like always, ordered a crap ton of Dango and was acting like a little kid getting candy for the first time. We were chatting about my training with Zabuza when Shisui's face tuned into one of his devious smirks.

"Soo Imouto..." Shisui sang out. I tensed a bit, knowing nothing good can come when he's in his mood. I mean last time I ended up on a supposed date with Sasuke. "Have any of your lovely suitors confessed yet? Zabuza-kun and I have a bet going and I'd really like to win 10,000 yen."

"What the hell are you talking about, I don't think I have any suitors, except maybe Gaara. And Itachi was the one even close to a suitor and that's because he had to." Shisui's smile widened in a mocking way. "And stop betting on my love life. Gah, thats soo weird." Shisui took a massive bite of his dango and patronizingly pat my head. I swatted his hand away.

"My sweet little genius, you are such an idiot sometimes. How you can read people so well, except when it comes to romance, eludes me." He teased, laughing in the expense of my confusion and annoyance. I'm not that oblivious... am I? I know I don't know that much about romantic love, but I thought I'd at least be able to tell if somebody liked me. I mean, the only reason Itachi kissed me was to piss off Sasuke so he'd kill him.

"Whatever." I huffed, "soo.. who'd you guys bet on?" I leaned forward eagerly, maybe if I know who supposedly likes me, I can figure out the signs.

"I bet on the lazy genius Shikamaru, you obviously spend a lot of time together and he's been crushing on you since you guys were little. One day he's going to get annoyed with the troublesomeness of not telling you and will confess. Zabuza bet on Naruto, he has no filter and once he figures out he likes you, Naruto's going to confess. It all depends on who does it first. There's still always the chance Sasuke gains his confidence and confesses." Shisui's grin just seemed to get bigger and bigger. My eyes widened in shock at the statement.

"Wow, you guys really put a lot of thought into this." Shisui laughed out. Something clicked though, Shikamaru is a low chance, he wants a non-troublesome wife, that is not me. But Naruto, with him they might be on to something. When we were in the forest of death, when he realized he didn't like Sakura, was he talking about me? The description fits... oh my Kami. And Sasuke, I mean Sasuke and I are really close and everything, he always likes to touch me and stuff, but I thought that was just because we were best friends. I kind if assumed he was asexual, and only had a kid to continue his lineage, but maybe he's just emotionally stunted.

"Oh Fuck!" Shisui began laughing loudly and obnoxiously, lots of peoples eyes turned to us in confusion. My brain seemed to shut down for a second. I guess, I never thought about dating or romance, I've been to focused on getting stronger and saving people. What the fuck am I supposed to do. I don't know if I like anyone, or what if I like more than one person. Aghhhhhh. You know what, save my precious people first, think about romance later. An unwanted blush dusted my cheeks pink. "My brain is combusting. Shisui-nii, you dick!" Shisui just continued laughing, thoroughly enjoying my embarrassment.

"Now now, that is not the language fit for the Byakugan Princess, what would your boy toys say to that." He said condescendingly, with a massive amount of teasing. I just huffed, but then smiled, happy that Shisui kept my mind off of anything negative for the time being. I got a piggy back ride from Shisui to his house, and took the rooftops back home to mine. Daddy should be home from his mission and I've been missing Hanabi. I flickered into the compound and went directly home. When I slid open the door to my families estate, one of the branch member maids came to take my stuff and welcome me back home. I heard light footsteps pitter pattering down the hallway, and the short brown pixie haired head of Hanabi appeared before me. Every day she grows to look more and more like mom.

"Neechan! You're back! Did you pass the second part of the exams?" She asked, a cute shy blush on her face, her round eyes looking up a me in wonder. She had an adorable smile on her face and once again, all of my worries melted away at the sight of her.

"Hai hime. What about you, how has the academy been?" I asked, a large smile on my face as I lifted her up and put her on my back. She quietly giggled in happiness, playing with my hair.

"It's really fun. I'm the best in Kunoichi classes, Lady Seiko says I have the poise that rivals a real princess. I am also the best female student alongside Moegi-san. K-Konohamaru-kun is the best male student." Her face blushed brightly, awwww. My heart swelled with pride, I knew she was going to be the best in Kunoichi classes, all of the elegance and grace I lack, she makes up tenfold. Father doesn't push Hanabi nearly as hard as he did with me, she was groomed to be the perfect princess; however, she did train and was very talented for her age. She wanted to be a ninja so that she could be a mother strong enough to protect her children.

Her grace was already apparent and she had the clan wrapped around her fingers already. They saw her as a perfect wife to a clan head, I'm not sure if I like that, but she seems to like it. Whatever makes her happy is ok for me. All of the clan business drives me crazy anyways, the political aspect of it all is hard for me to swallow, as soon as I fix more important matters, I'm going to rebuild my clan and make it less of a detestable clan. Hanabi and I chatted about her life on our way to dad's office. I slid open the door and was greeted with Dad, his long hair in a tight bun, glasses on his face, surrounded by paperwork all pertaining to clan business and mission briefings. His face was pulled into the ever-familiar scowl. When he looked up at us, his scowl stayed, but his eyes softened.

"Neji said you passed the second stage and the preliminaries. I will be training him as the male head for the clan. What are your plans for the month intermission?" He asked, I could hear the unspoken good job and held back from running into his large body and hugging him. Throughout the exam, when I was scared, I thought a lot of how I wanted my dad there.

"Arigato Otousan. Zabuza-sempai promised to train me everyday, no breaks." Dad's body was still very tense and he activated his Byakugan scanning over me intensely.

"Acceptable. Hanabi." Dad didn't take his eyes off me as he spoke. "Leave us. Goodnight child." Hanabi scrambled down my back, gave a hug and a bow to dad, and quietly left the room. Dad got up from his kneeling position and walked over to me, bringing be to sit right in front of him. "You encountered Orochimaru correct?" He asked, his voice full of tense anger, thankfully not directed at me.

"Hai Otousan."

"I see no worrying physical injuries; however, your chakra is still recovering, you used a deadly amount." He stated, his jaw clenching tightly. He pulled me into him and once again I had to recount the experience. Thankfully, his time I didn't cry. Something about the experience made dad have the same uncomfortable look in his eye that Shisui had. Something was extremely off and for the first time, I don't have the slightest clue to what it is. I knew what dad was trying to convey, he didn't have to say a word. He was worried for me, yet proud I survived. I relaxed into his massive frame more, basking in the comfort of my dad. He picked me up, carrying me like he did when I was a small child and brought me to his desk. For the next hour I sat and did non-confidential clan paperwork sitting in his lap like I did when I was small. At some point, I fell asleep and he brought me up to Hanabi's room, allowing us to sleep together before I had to leave for my early morning training.

I woke up at the ungodly hour of 4:30, not taking Zabuza's threats lightly. I know I cant be late, no matter how much I hate being up this fucking early. I slowly removed myself from Hanabi's grasp, tucking her back under the blanket for warmth. I trudged out of the house and made my way to the lake. Zabuza arrived shortly after I did, moving silently, looking menacing even without his usual sword. Sadly, he still is wearing the ugly cow leg and arm warmers.

"Ohayo Sempai." I yawned, raising my hand in greeting. I only got a growl/grunt in response. I guess he's not a morning person either. Haha, at least he can feel bad with me.

"I will be training you on two things. You are going to master the water ninjutsu's I teach you, and I will help you solve your water control issue you could not figure out. You are strong, buy you rely too heavily on your eyes, especially with the Byakugan. If that is ever taken away, you would become a liability, so I will beat using your other senses into you. You will not bitch, complain, fail, be late, and question my decisions. I am your master now and you will do exactly as I say or I will not personally train you any longer. You are going to become a weapon of mass destruction, student under the Demon of the mist. You may not have to kill your whole class, but I expect that same level of deadly determination. Are you prepared or are you going to be like the other weakling Genin and quit." Zabuza barked out, sounding like a super strict commander. I steeled my nerves, pushed the sleep out of my body, and stood up straighter, looking him in the eye. Gone was the fun asshole Zabuza, here was the demon, my deadly sensei.

"Hai Zabuza! I am prepared for whatever you give me. I will not let you down." I said, my voice strong and unwavering. The intense training sessions with Fugaku, dad, and Lady Seiko came to mind. They pushed me to never talk back, to be the strongest I can be, to be confident in what I do. I sued that to not be intimidated and to make sure I succeeded in my training, if I want to keep up with my teammates I have to be strong, stronger than I am. Zabuza's eyes looked proud, like a father looking down to his daughter, I hadn't seen that look since Haku.

The first step of training was for my senses. My nose was nothing special, so the only time it was useful was if there was enough blood in the air for me to smell the metallic scent. We didn't spend much time on it. Zabuza's specialty was the silent kill technique, he had better than perfect hearing, and although he wasn't a chakra sensor, he could use his chakra to specifically pinpoint one person if they are in close range. The first stage of learning to use my hearing better was Zabuza would cover the training area in chakra laced mist, so I could not even attempt to sense him. I was not aloud to activate my Byakugan and could only use my hearing. Starting out, I was terrible, Zabuza would attack and get to my kill points before I could stop him, I was only able to hear him when he was really close, and then I was too late to react. To even be able to hear him at all, I would have to stand completely still and tune out the sounds of my own body.

The ruffles of the leaves, and the ripples of the water still made it more difficult to hear him, so I had to train extremely hard to tune out sounds, other than the sound of Zabuza's heartbeat. His footsteps no matter what were dead silent, so I could not hear him moving, the only sound he ever made was his heart beat and thats what I zoned in on. It took almost the whole month before I could track Zabuza while I was moving too, it's one thing to be still and listen, but when moving its 10 times more difficult. Each person's heart beats at a different tempo and to be able to single out one person, I had to concentrate solely on their heart beat. To enhance my hearing, I had to continuously apply chakra into my ears and allow it to basically stretch out and locate a persons heart, making my chakra beat to the same tempo as their heart, making me 'hear' it. When fighting more than 4 people at a time, I couldn't do my technique that well, but it was proficient enough that Zabuza was impressed.

Doing that training was very difficult, not the worst I've ever done but some of the most frustrating. Every time I would miss hearing Zabuza, or would react late, I would be hit by the incoming attack. My body was basically a punching bag, getting hit over and over again. I had deep bruises spread across my body that ached to the core. I got knocked down more times that I could ever dream to count, and there were so many times when I thought I couldn't do it and just wanted to give up, but I forced myself to keep going. Thank Kami he wasn't using any weapons, I would have probably bled out. I had nothing to protect myself from Zabuza's attacks with, all I was permitted to do was dodge and try to counter. We decided I can't use the silent kill technique for offense like Zabuza does, it is solely a last resort defensive measure. It's basically impossible for me to use it in offense, I cannot hear and predict moves like Zabuza can, its basically like echolocation for him, all I could do is hear when my opponent gets closer and I have to decide the best way to dodge an attack so it's not fatal.

I truly understand why Zabuza is so feared, when he trains Naruto, Sasuke, and I; he holds back. I know him and Kakashi do, but I really got to see how skilled he is, even without a sword. Every one of his attacks is quick and precise, there was no mercy, he never let up and seemed to have an endless amount of physical stamina. In just brute force, he is so much stronger than I am, probably than most people are if his rippling muscles have anything to say about it. Every spar we had when I was blindfolded, there was no chakra aloud. I got beat down time and time again, I was faster and more nimble, but he was still very fast and his movements were so controlled and calculated, he was ready for my attacks right as I readied them. I was also not aloud to use Olympic style, so he was training me in honing in on my physical strength, to counter an opponent bigger than me if I have no chakra left to use.

Zabuza and I spent most of training working on water ninjutsu. My affinity for water is higher than even Zabuza's, I would probably equate it to the level of Tobirama Senju, but I don't have the control that he spent so many years perfecting. I don't really like his decisions, he's sexy, but a huge fucking dick and he kind of screwed the Uchiha clan over, leading to the coup and the massacre, but that's besides the point. He's a genius with water and to be on his level is one of my life goals. I may not be Hashirama and Madara like Naruto and Sasuke, but I want to latest be Tobirama.

Zabuza ferociously drilled water control into me into me. I spent a few hours explaining my training already, and what I want to accomplish. I told him how I can move myself in and out of chakra with relative ease, now that I finally completed stage 1. I also showed him how I can lace my chakra and have it continuously flow a small steady amount into the water to get it to move at my will. I added those two skills together and can ride water like my own form of transportation. The problem that I was having still was getting massive quantities of water to move and take form, water is heavy and I cant figure out the proper ratio of my chakra in the water to get larger amounts to move. Tobirama could pull a freaking ocean out of his ass and I needed to be able to do that, but then make it even more of a weapon.

Zabuza started by making me learn more than the 3 water ninjutsu's I know and then perfect those. I learned the water dragon, water clone, and water jaguar. Sadly I'd need more than a month to learn the explosive water shockwave and stormy blockade. Making a water clone was easy for me and it took little to no effort to create one. Water dragon was similar to the Snake's mouth jutsu, the difference was that instead of forming a snake and having it eat the person and basically drown them, it was used as a battering ram, hitting the opponent with enough force to knock them down if not out. It also moved a lot faster than the snake's head, and because it was a cylinder of densely packed water chakra, it took a lot more hand seals to get the chakra flow to make the dragon more than just a splash of water.

The 42 seals was exhausting and I messed them up quite a few times, so I decided to limit the seals, Tobirama used like 4, so I'm going to use as little as possible too. I had Zabuza do the water dragon as many times as he could each day, and I used my Byakugan to focus on the flow of his chakra, the direction of the flow that each hand seal makes. A lot of the hand seals were just to continue flow in a specific direction, there were only 6 key one's that actually changed the direction, input, and flow of the chakra into the water to create the dragon. Zabuza and I figured out that with my chakra control being so good, and my high affinity for water, also being able to watch how chakra flows for ninjutsu, we worked hard on me getting the dragon jutsu into 6 seals. We could only practice this jutsu every other day because I went into borderline chakra exhaustion when trying to perfect it with so little seals.

Doing the water jaguar was similar, but instead of it just being a worm of water, meant for impact, the water jaguar had a distinctive jaguar shape, and was made to move and attack like a panther. I had to work a lot on making the water have distinctive shape in form for this, molding a body, legs, making it move and attack like a jaguar. It took a lot less chakra because it wasn't as densely packed and powerful as the water dragon, but it took more control to make something as free flowing as water into a solid shape, not just a wormy like dragon/snake. Whenever I wasn't working on the water dragon or water panther, I was solely working on becoming one with the water. I would train on top of it, sit on it and have it move me around places, and work on getting more and more of my chakra to meld with the water to move as I want it to.

Zabuza had me train with water so often, and until the point of me passing out. I was out cold by the end of training every day, he didn't let me rest until I passed out or perfected a stage of the jutsu. Imagine the feeling of your blood and soul just slowly pouring out of you until you pass out, that's what going into chakra exhaustion is like. And because I never fully hit chakra exhaustion, I would have that feeling every single day of training. Physical training, your muscles hurt, it sucks, but chakra training, especially to a level I didn't know was possible, was worse. The inside of my body every day hurt, it didn't just hurt it felt extremely weak but the end of the night, like I was nothing left but bones. I honestly can't explain the exhausting and just utterly uncomfortable feeling of using my chakra in such a way continuously every day.

My training was not just me getting beat down and dead tired, there were results. Not only was my sensory skills better, as well as my evading, my skill in water ninjutsu increased tenfold. Zabuza said I am on my way to being the best water user ever, and am close to being classified to a water specialist. Training in water control also helped me come up with my own ninjutsu idea, it will definitely take years to accomplish, but with the help of Zabuza theorizing it now, and Shikamaru and Kakashi's help later, I think I can make one.

I know that I would not have made it this far without previous knowledge, awesome sensei's, and being a Hyuuga, but I still feel proud of myself. I feel like I can get closer and closer to accomplishing my goal of saving people who should have a second chance. I used to want to save everyone, but that's Naruto's job, I am going to do my best to make everyone's lives better and to save those who many think are too far gone. I spent a lot of time with Zabuza, and we got to really know one another. His life was super fucked up, how he was basically groomed and taught by society from the day he was born to be a cold blooded killer. He told me more about Haku and how Haku was like the son he would never get to have. Every night, Zabuza would take me home, carrying me like a sac of flour, and wait until I woke up then feed me. He was brutal and showed no mercy during training, but was kind in his own way at night, though he refuses to admit it.

---

(3d POV)

Not only was Hinata training extremely hard, most of her friends were working right along side her. Sasuke was putting in great effort learning the Chidori and getting his speed up to almost match Lee's. He would train from dusk to dawn, until his body couldn't handle it. His clothes did not make it through the training and until the Chunin exams, he was stuck wearing some of Kakashi's old clothes. He was training to be stronger, to be able to protect his precious people, to bring his brother home, and to kill those who were so eager to ruin his brother's life. He'd become a Uchiha worthy of continuing his family lineage and worthy of holding the the girl of his dreams in his arms.

Naruto was training hard with the Pervy Sanin, learning the Summoning Jutsu after he signed the contract with the toads, as well as some more seals. Naruto like his teammates spent as much time training as he could, he did not want to be the dead last ever again, and he wanted to be the strongest ninja, Hokage, so he could protect everyone and prove his worth. He would not let down the people who believed in him most, he would not let her down, he would be so strong and beat the teme so she'd realize her love and jump into his arms.

Shikamaru begrudgingly trained hard with Asuma Sarutobi and sometimes his teammates joined in. He was working on strategy after strategy to compete against the wind user. He also worked in increasing his melee combat skills as well as his chakra capacity. He needed his shadows to last longer and move quicker. He wanted to lay on a hill and watch the clouds, but he also wanted to prove himself as a man. No way was he going to let a girl always be stronger than him and protect him, no matter how much of a drag it really is

Neji was getting the most brutal training of his life from Hiashi. When he earned the respect of Hiashi, and both let go of their grudges, Hiashi agreed to train Neji in the main family clan techniques. Neji was more adept at learning them than Hinata, and was well on his way to mastering all of them. Neji was being groomed to carry on the legend of the Hyuuga as well as be an important high standing member alongside Hinata in the future (even if the elder council has no idea that the branch is going to be merged with the main).

Shino was training with his bugs, growing their loyalty to an even greater extent and how to successfully execute more specialized ninjutsu. He also trained with Kiba, working on his speed and close combat, Shino knows that he would be a liability in close quarters if he did not increase his taijutsu skills. Shino wanted to bring honor to his clan and show his true friends that they supported him for a good reason. He was ready to destroy his competition and show everyone that although he is silent, he is a deadly Shinobi and then maybe he will be less forgotten.

Kiba was training to restore his pride from the ass kicking he took from Naruto. He worked on increasing his speed, as well as his coordinated attacks with Akamaru. They were good but he wanted them perfect. Kiba worked on Fang Over Fang, including dynamic marking so that when they attacked, it was on target and even more painful. He trained with Shino, changing taijutsu lessons for lessons on how to keep his cool and strategize better. Never again was he going to underestimate someone, and never again was he going to be a week Genin, he wanted to be up there with his friends, his rival, and those who passed from other villages.

Choji was training hard, not only because of the motivation of food, but because the determination he saw in Shikamaru. He got swatted away like a bug, that was not going to happen again. Choji knows his heart is kind, but he decided to use that kindness and become stronger to protect his family, friends, and blossoming crush for a teammate. He wants to stand tall and impress everyone, showing them the strength of the Akimichi clan.

Kankuro was fine tuning his puppet skills, adding more deadly weapons to their arsenal so that when the invasion comes, he won't lose. He spent time training but mostly stargazing with his sister and Baki. They needed the plan to go off without a hitch and with Gaara being an extreme wild card right now, he was paying more and more attention on what to do to survive and succeed. He was going to follow his village even if they are wrong, and make his asshole father proud.

Temari was not training, she was confident in her abilities to beat the shadow user and fight against the leaf ninja. She saw the strength a few of the leaf Genin had, it was impressive and she probably wouldn't win, but she knew she wasn't facing them. So instead, Temari turned her worry to the invasion. Gaara was acting weird ever since he was with the Hyuuga girl and she did not want the plan to go awry because of his wildness. Little did the sand Genin know, the plan was changed and they were not informed. Gaara was too much of a wild card, they needed the beast, not the boy.

Tenten was training with her weaponry, she was angry and embarrassed that she got defeated by the Sand Kunoichi so easily. Wind may be one of her biggest problems, but she was determined to find a way around it. There was no more time for metaphorically sucking off Neji and riding her title as top Kunoichi of her year, it was time to take Might Gai seriously and train to prove herself once more. She was not going to sit and watch as her team flourished, she was going to do it with them.

Sakura sometimes trained with Kurenai Yuhi, she did not want to get muscly from training, so genjutsu training was perfect for her to keep her week girlish figure. Her aptitude for genjutsu was very apparent and although she was still head over heels in love with Sasuke, she wanted to become a strong and beautiful Kunoichi like her sensei. She trained, using her skill at chakra (especially since her reserves are still too small for ninjutsu) control to produce and manipulate elaborate genjutsu, casing layer upon layer to make difficult to break illusions. She still harbored ill feeling toward Hinata, and her relationship with Ino was rocky, but it was no longer her sole focus, other than Sasuke of course.

Ino was shocked to see how she was equals with Sakura, and how far behind she was from Hinata. She was even more shocked to see her teammates, the laziest and chunkiest Genin, training so hardcore. It made her realize how useless she has been, she was part of the Ino-Shika-Cho formation and dammit, she did not want to be the weak link. She was supposed to be the alpha female. Ino trained on furthering her mind control jutsu, beginning to learn the mind destruction and mind link jutsu. She decided that if she was going to be strong, then maybe Saskue, or any other strong boy, would spare her a glance like they do Hinata.

Gaara spent no time training, he was supposed to meet in with his team and plan out the destruction of the leaf village, but after the meetings with Hinata, the girl who promised to show him what love really was, he no longer wanted to take away her home. The beast inside him still begged to be set free, but now Gaara had an anchor, a reason to kill other than himself. He wanted her for himself and was not going to do something as stupid as harming her home, he would only kill those who harmed her. He spent his days watching her work herself into the ground because she wanted to save people like him. He never stopped watching her, the way the sun reflected off of her hair, her white beautiful grin when she succeeded, the pout she wore when she was struggling. All of it was beautiful to Gaara, and all of it was his.

Kabuto was a special case, acting as a triple agent, and being up to Jonin/ANBU level, he did not need to train for the exams. He knew he was going up against a ninja that could rival him, if not beat him at some point, but his job was solely to showcase her skills to both of his masters. He first analyzed her chakra when he was healing her and putting her to sleep, he loved it, it was pure ecstasy to feel her chakra. All Kabuto wanted to do was dissect it further and feel her chakra more. The information he gathered was given to his master Orochimaru. Whom was very interested in her, Kabuto had yet to figure out what she was necessary for, but either way, he wanted her to join them. Then with the analysis he got from Orochimaru on some of her skills, he gave those to his other master, the puppet. Sasori was interested to say the least, and decided that he wanted to see the girl fro himself, getting permission from the 'leader' of the Akatsuki, a possible new recruit if they could play their cards right.

(A/N Kabuto is a freak and we all knew that, I think he should be addicted to her chakra more so than herself, kind of like how he was with surpassing Orochimaru)

---

I woke up the morning of the final exam in a weird sense of serenity. It creeped me out a lot that I was so serene when the exams were about to turn into a clusterfuck, Konoha a shit storm. Maybe it was because I got to sleep in or that I've been so worried my brain finally shut down, leaving me a blissfully happy idiot. Probably the latter. I slid out of my bed and danced my way to the bathroom humming the tune to a song I've long forgotten the words to. I took a shower, enjoying the feeling of the warm water trailing down my slender body. I washed my hair quickly and got out of the warm steamy cocoon of the shower. I stared myself in my eyes as I did my hair in a long french braid down my back.

My thoughts were running wild, that blissful ignorance I was feeling earlier seemed to flow down the drain during my shower. Now I was left in a state of confusion. I'm not scared of whats to come, I know that my people will be able to protect themselves, but I can't help but wonder what is actually going to go down. So many things are different here, so many situations are the same but oh so different. I mean Kabuto is in the battle rounds this time, and he hasn't been found out yet. What of my interference with Gaara this early changed everything, I'm going in partially blind and I think that's whats going to be happening from here on out. There are no set situations anymore and all I can do is roll with the punches. This is a divergence, and now it makes it even more real, I no longer know everything that will happen, this is my life now and I'm going to have to live it to the best of my abilities.

I finished my hair and lined my eyes in a sharp black wing, making my large doe eyes look more fierce and deadly. I got dressed and packed my weapon's pack, putting in a few extra smoke and paper bombs for later use. Father was with Neji and Hizashi in the kitchen, they were eating breakfast in silence. I stormed into the kitchen, breaking the silence which earned me a blank look from dad, an exasperated spy from Neji, and a smile form Hizashi. I grabbed a bowl, putting in some rice with poached egg on top. After breakfast, lunch for Neji and his earl rising tendencies, Neji and I headed to the participation entrance of the arena. I was vibrating in excitement, I cant wait to try out my new skills against somebody that isn't Zabuza; and everyone has been training so hard it's going to be interesting to watch. Neji was just as excited as I was but he was playing impassive to not break Hyuuga character. I made it to the contestant area and few people were there already. The sand siblings, Shino, and Shikamaru were sitting (or sleeping) in silence.

Gaara was standing off to the side alone so made my way over to him. His eyes were trained directly on me, but instead of the usual hatred and loneliness they show through his glares, they were a bit wider and looked happier. I greeted him with a grin and stood next to him but not close enough to make him uncomfortable. Gaara looked at me in annoyance, dissatisfied between me being so far away. He hesitantly shuffled closer, taking the hint, I closed the gap and had our shoulders brushing against one another. Gaara's body stayed as stiff as a board, but I could see the usually tense muscles in his shoulders and jaw relax slightly. Yet again, a bit of his sand made a small trail along the ground and wrapped around my ankle this time, holding on firm but not tight.

Temari and Kankuro shuffled a bit farther away, talking in hushed voices and glancing at Gaara with worried looks. Something was off; they were most likely fretting about the Invasion and Gaara's involvement in it. I took a glance at Shikamaru, he was finally awake and watching the whole scene with his highly analytical eyes, putting his genius to work. To everyone else it looked like he was just bored or annoyed, but I knew better, I knew him. Even when he seems to be paying no attention, he's assessing every detail of a situation in overdrive. He probably knows more gossip and facts about the people around us then any one else in the hidden villages; yet, nobody ever would know because he is just another lazy ass.

I talked with Gaara while we were waiting for everyone else, he talked about how he was going to kill 'them' to keep 'ourselves in existence.' The maniacal look in his eyes was gleaming, but it wasn't directed towards me, he was looking right at Baki as he spoke. Something big is going down with them and I don't have a fucking clue, all I know is Gaara is not going to let me die. I wish I'd feel relieved by that, but it only made my stomach churn at the thought of who he was so determined to kill. Kabuto walked in and Gaara's eyes widened practically glowing in blood lust. Kabuto just sent a small smirk Gaara's way, then turned his head down and walked away.

More contenders made there way here, and the stands around us were steadily filling up. Civilians and ninja from all of the great nations were here, chatting loudly to one another and placing bets on the winners. Most of the money was going towards Sasuke and Neji, some going towards myself and Gaara. Eyes were watching over all of us in extreme interest, I felt naked with all the eyes on me. I wonder if this is what gladiators felt like when they were sent to fight in the colosseum, just things for people to watch to entertain themselves. Of course this is much more; we fight to showcase the strength of our village, but we are still partially for entertainment. Oh hell, if they want a show, a show is what they'll get.

It felt like someone's stare was looking into the very depths of my soul. I looked around trying to see whether or not I'm being paranoid, when my eyes locked with eerily familiar doll-like glassy brown ones. I couldn't see the rest of the persons face, they were wearing a silky black cloak that covered everything except for the eyes. The persons stair was unwavering and extremely unnerving. Whoever they are, something is up with them. We broke our stare down when the person turned their head to the person beside them, wearing the same plain black silky cloak. This person had piercing blue eyes that could rival Naruto's. Their sharp eyes were watching me too, less intensely, but still watching. I know those eyes from somewhere, I just don't know who would be here that I would know about, especially people who made my stomach flip flop.

A faint sound of wild yelling brought me back to reality and that faint yelling became loud as hell. I looked down and Naruto burst through the arena doors, screaming his head off about being chased by bulls. I couldn't hold it in anymore and I busted out laughing. Not only did Naruto look hilarious all panicky like that, instead of the evil glares he normally receives, people were looking at him like he was some kind of idiotic yet amusing alien. Naruto whined at me for 'not believing him' but I didn't respond, still giggling to myself. Shikamaru went down there to end the troublesome situation and brought Naruto up to the waiting area. I was hit with a massive blunt force, knocking me to the ground. Naruto was hugging on to me tightly interchangeably saying how mean I am and how much he missed me. Once we gathered out wits, he went on joking about how Sasuke was late because he was too scared to fight.

I took a closer look at Naruto and my jaw fell open. He looked different. I guess I never noticed his changes spending so much time together, but a month apart, he looked a bit more mature, growing more and more to look like the hottie his dad was. The biggest shock of all was Naruto finally got rid of the terrible orange and blue track suit. Now he was wearing the same orange and black jacket he wears in Shippuden, but instead of the baggy orange pants, he had black ninja pants with orange lines down the sides. He looked so badass, no longer like the little orange ball of weird clothing choices.

"Oh my Kami Naru, your clothes are so cool, this is so much better than the orange tracksuit. You're going to have all the ladies falling at your feet now." Naruto grinned and blushed slightly before yelling a thanks as he put his arm around my shoulder.

Lord Third stood up, dressed in his Hokage garb. He gathering everyone's attention, but mine was on the 'Kazekage' behind him. We locked eyes and he sent a smirk my way, eyes flashing dangerously and he licked his lips. Lord Third's deep gruff voice echoed through the area.

"Welcome all of you, our deepest thanks for coming to Konohagakure for this years Chunin Exams. We have come to the final competition between the remaining candidates. Enjoy the impressive show of strength each and every one of these potential Chunin have." He tipped his hat slightly and sat back down, receiving wild applause from the civilians, and ninja from our village. Genma, a special Jonin crouched on the railing. He had a black bandanna type headband on and held a long, shiny senbon between his lips. His demeanor was slightly uncaring and harsh, but from what I've heard, he's the life of the party. He told everyone the rules, and order of the matches. He also revealed that is Sasuke is not here for his match, he will be forced to concede. Naruto wasn't happy about that, but he had faith that his rival would show up. Sasuke's ego is too big to not show up and fight.

"Naruto Uzumaki and Kankuro no Sabaku make your way down to the arena, your match is first." Naruto cracked his knuckles eager to fight; Kankuro just had a mischievous and cocky grin on his painted face.

"I've been waiting to teach this midget a lesson for trying to mess with the Sand. Whose ready to watch me take down this little brat he's all bark and no bite." Kankuro stated to the crowd, riling them up. They cheered for Kankuro, some of our people the loudest, cheering for him to take care of the 'demon'. My blood was boiling but a reassuring hand from Shika helped me mellow out a tiny bit. Gaara was looking at Naruto in more interest now, the familiarity of the situation came to him and I know he understands what I was talking about now, the person like him. I could see the slight longing, he wanted to talk to Naruto, but as soon as it came, it left. Oh well, it's progress to making one of Naruto's greatest bromances in the show.

"I've been waiting to fight a make-up wearing puppet freak like you dattebayo. You just think you're all that and can get away with picking on people whenever you like. People who pick on defenseless children are scum and I'm about to beat some sense into you. I won't get taken down like I was last time dattebayo." Naruto took his thumb and pointed it into his chest, his foxy grin donning his features. "My name is Naruto Uzumaki and I'm going to take you down. A bully like you doesn't deserve to become Chunin." He shouted.

Kankuro just laughed with a hint annoyance in his tone. He removed Crow from his back and unravelled it, standing in front of Naruto. Naruto pulled out a kunai and activated his brass knuckles. Genma moved back a safe distance and started the fight. Kankuro was taunting Naruto, talking like a complete dick. He was pissing off everyone with his unashamed asshole-ness. I mean I know his dad was a bad person, but hot damn, Kankuro is way more fucked up and rude than I thought. While fighting, Naruto was countering Kankuro's comments with some of his Therapy Jutsu: a special mix of words and fists to magically make people better.

Kankuro kept his distance at first, using Crows long distance attacks. He sent a wide spread barrage of poison coated senbon needles towards Naruto; however, Naruto dodged them effortlessly, using a mix of his dodging abilities and Shadow Clones to take the hits for him. The attack ended and Naruto didn't have a scratch on him. Kankuro upped his attacks, having one arm of Crow spewing out flames and the other sending out poisonous Kunai. Naruto prepared a strong wind ninjutsu and sent it towards the attacks. The wind made the Kunai fly uselessly to the ground, but instead of putting out the fire like he was hoping, it made the fire so big it basically exploded, charring most of the arena grounds. Naruto had a few burns on him, but they were minimal and Kuruma would heal them soon enough. Kankuro was fine, using his puppet to shield himself from the fire.

Kankuro growled in annoyance and decided to engage in closer combat. He took apart crow and each limb was now a different type of sword. They spun in a sort of rhythmic dance around Naruto, jabbing and slicing at him. Naruto dodged most of them, but ended up getting a scratch across his cheek. Kankuro smirked, knowing it wouldn't be too long for the poison to take affect. Naruto made the ever familiar hand signs and about 200 of himself filled up the arena, some were sitting in the trees, others standing on the walls. It was an orange overload. The crowd went wild with how many clones he could produce. It was unlike anything they've ever seen. The real Naruto disappeared among the clones as the massive wave of them began to fight the puppet swords and take them out. All of the clones except for 1 were taken out.

There was a loud shaking under the ground and another puppet popped out of the ground. This one looked more like an ant, it was a battering ram type puppet. It lashed out and hit Naruto, thinking it was the real one but like all the others, when it hit the ground it poofed away. There was no sign of Naruto and Kankuro was looking around, losing his cool. Crow came back together and a third puppet emerged. It was the trio Sasori made and Kankuro wields them well. Naruto needs to end this soon, I don't know how much longer he can fight with that poison in his system.

The puppets were hovering above ground and looking for Naruto when a large fireball came shooting at them, singing some of the wood. I was shocked, I didn't know Naruto could use fire style. The puppets shot towards where the fireball came from. Naruto emerged from his hiding, his unrivaled un-detection skills were put into good use. He was smirking and had a paper tag in his hand. Naruto got close to the battering ram puppet, ignoring the few cuts he was receiving, and placed the tag on the puppet. It stopped moving and Kankuro's eyes widened giving Naruto the chance to place the same seals on the other two puppets. They too stopped moving and fell uselessly to the ground.

"What the hell did you do to my puppets you stupid midget, why can't I connect chakra thread's to them anymore!" Kankuro yelled infuriated. Of course, even though it's a battle, men have to stroke their ego and brag exactly about what they did, taking over fighting seems to happen a lot.

"I made my own seals with the help of Kakashi-sensei and Pervy Sage. They seal off the use of the puppet by making a barrier of my Chatora around the puppets so it severs your connection every time you try to connect your stupid string stuff to make them move. I told you, don't mess with Naruto Uzumaki dattebayo. I'm going to be future Hokage and won't lose to some ugly bully like you." Naruto's speech was impressive, but we all deadpanned at how such a genius fighter still doesn't know how to pronounce Chakra. Everyone was dead silent, waiting for the next move. Naruto pulled out another seal and threw it on the ground near Kankuro. I recognized the seal and Kankuro dropped to the floor, not being able to move from the weight of the Gravity Seal.

Naruto gave Kankuro some more therapy jutsu and then knocked him out with a strong punch to the jaw. Everyone stared in awe at the budding seals and ninjutsu master. He really kicked some ass and a happy smile graced my face. Naruto looked happy especially as the crowd (well a lot of them) cheered for him, the underdog. Naruto then dropped to the floor and I was worried but not too much, he'd be fine and I knew it. The poison took effect, it wouldn't be fatal, but should keep him down until he is given an antidote or its burned out of his system by the angry fox. The seals deactivated and Baki took Kankuro away, waking him up. Naruto was taken away to be treated, but I knew he would be back soon to watch more fights.

The next fight was with Shika and Temari. Shikamaru's training and genius paid off and he kicked Temari's ass, she's smart but he's smarter. The battle was intense and Shika showcased some new skills, his shadows moving faster and lasting longer than they ever have. The most shocking was he didn't forfeit this time, he looked determined to keep competing. Neji and Shino also fought a good battle. Neji and Shino were a wild matchup, one being a prodigy in the gentle fist and another being a bug user who can suck chakra. I stand by what I said in that Shino is a freaking beast and if I need a teammate that isn't my own, he's one of the ones at the top of the list. In full out battles, I don't think he's ever lost to anyone, not even in the manga.

I love Neji, but he was being his usual dick-ish self and underestimated Shino ending up in his loss. Neji attempted to attack shino with the gentle fist, managing to get some strikes in, but his bugs protected him. Shino also had his bugs slowly eating Neji's chakra so by the end of the battle, Neji didn't have enough Chakra to continue. He had a perfect strategy and perfect execution against Neji. The crowd once again went wild, another person pitted to lose beat a prodigy like Neji. I was super proud of Shino, I hope people start giving him the recognition he deserves. (A/N this is true, Shino never lost a fight in Naruto or Shippuden. I also think he is the most underrated character in the show so imma give him some love. I really do think that the battle with Shino and Neji would end with Shino winning because his bugs would protect him and be able to swarm Neji, eating the chakra from his palm rotation as well as overwhelming Neji to win.)

There was a 20 minute intermission of sorts, first because Sasuke hasn't shown up for his fight and second because people needed to go place more bets and get food and stuff. During this, I congratulated Shika and Shino, and went to find Zabuza. Zabuza was talking with Anko and she was freaking blushing, BLUSHING. Zabuza was flirting with Anko, I couldn't believe my eyes. They would be a perfect couple, a scary and sadistic couple, but I think they'd be perfect for one another. Sometimes she would tag along on my training over the month, or have dinner with us, but I thought nothing of it. How could I have been so blind.

I walked up to them with a smug smirk and before I could even say anything other than a hello, they both threw me out of the room. With the last 5 minutes, I went to find Naruto, when I found him, he was already up and running, he just had a high fever. Despite his fever, he gave me a piggy back ride, his hands holding firmly on my thighs. We walked back to the waiting area and he was still so hyped about winning. He also explained how he wanted to beat some sense into Kankuro because he was ganging up on a little kid being a dick, it was noble and a good reason for him to therapy jutsu him. Hopefully now he'll be like-able like he is in Shippuden.

"Naru how'd you do the fireball, tell me!" I shook him, my eyes wide like a puppy so he'd have to tell me. His cheeks tinged pink and he pulled out a seal for me to see. He had Jiraiya perform the fireball, then with a seal, he sealed it into the tag so he could release the fireball later. It was genius, I didn't know that seals could do that, Jiraiya taught him well. It was fucking genius, and with a few fireballs sealed away, Naruto has more than just a wind attack now, he can combine them to make one extra strong. We made it back to the waiting area and Sasuke's match was going to be called. The arena was in an uproar, they came to see the last Uchiha and wanted to see him. Genma spoke up to announce Gaara as the winner, when in the most Kakashi fashion possible, Kakashi and Sasuke appeared in a swirl of leaves, back to back. It was so theatrical and fit Sasuke's overdramatic personality so well.

Sasuke was wearing an all black jumpsuit that was cut off at the knees, short sleeved, and a high wide necked collar. He changed out his blue and white leg/arm warmers for white bandages with black rubber wrappings. His hair grew out a bit and he looked older because of it. All in all, it looked so freaking cool! The girls young and old squealed at how hot their Sasuke-kun looked. Some even fainted. Sasuke looked up to Naruto and I as Kakashi apologized for their lateness. He sent me a smirk and I rolled my eyes, putting my hands on my cheeks and mocking the fangirls around him. Naruto busted out laughing and it was Sasuke's turn to roll his eye's and mouthed 'I knew you loved me... freak'. He and Naruto exchanged glares while Gaara was called down. I stopped Gaara and gave him a kiss on the cheek for good luck, not realizing what that meant to him and how it made some other people feel.

Kakashi appeared right next to me, scaring me enough to throw a punch. Not surprisingly, he caught my hand and smiled at me.

"Maa, after a month of missing me the first thing you do is try to hit me. You wound me my cute little minion." He drawled in his teasing sarcastic tone.

"Kakashi-sensei." Naruto and I chorused, glomping him. Naruto was on his back and had my legs wrapped around his waist. He chuckled and patted out heads, then unceremoniously knocked both of us off and to the floor. I stood next to him and watched the incoming battle intensely as Naruto retold Kakashi of his epic battle. Sasuke and Gaara's battle went as I expected for the first part, I prepared myself for the genjutsu and incoming invasion. Sasuke's Chidori chirped loudly and the condensed lightning chakra in his hand was blindingly bright. I could feel the power of it from here and it made the scar in my shoulder tingle. Kakashi noticed and placed his hand where the scar is and lightly rubbed it.

Sasuke held his Chidori with a hand for stabilizing the heavy chakra, and with his even greater speed, ran at Gaara's sand dome, thrusting his Chidori as hard as he could into it. It penetrated and everything was silent until Gaara let out a strangled cry. The sound of his pain made me hurt. I know firsthand how terrible a Chidori feels. His sand thrashed and sent wild waves of spikes at Sasuke, who gracefully weaved through all of them with the help of his Sharingan.

"Blood, my blood! Sasuke Uchiha you are a worthy opponent!" The sand around Gaara moved away and there was a small pool of blood forming at the top of his shoulder. The Chidori didn't hit him enough for any terrible damage, but enough to make him hurt. Gaara's face was smiling, yet instead of the insane grin I was expecting, he had the same smile Naruto wears when he and Sasuke get to spar, it was just a bit more scary. I could see him fighting with himself on trying to not let the beast out and kill Sasuke. Half of Gaara's sand spilled out behind him, pounding into the ground and merging with his ultimate defense to make more sand. The rest of his sand was throwing attack after attack at Sasuke, some landing others being dodged completely. Sasuke showcased his impressive speed and ran circles around Gaara sending lightning shocks to Gaara.

They were fast and timed well, most of them got blocked by his sand, but a few hit and made Gaara grunt in pain. Sasuke went in and landed a heavy punch on Gaara, cracking his sand skin and sending him crashing to the ground. Not letting up on his attack, Sasuke sent a barrage of kicks and punches, breaking off more and more of Gaara's sand covering his body. Sasuke's attacks became more and more ferocious, everyone was in awe at his skill, Lee was most impressed on how quickly Sasuke was able to improve to such a level. Sasuke kicked Gaara up in the air, preparing for a Lion's Barrage, but when Gaara was thrown up into the air, his sand formed a cloud type thing, allowing Gaara to move out of the way and was basically flying on the sand. There were a ton of Ohh's and Ahh's from his control over the sand.

"My turn, I've seen what you have Uchiha, lets fight!" Gaara called out. (A/N remember Gaara is still weird and obsessed with skills right now he just wont kill Sasuke because he hasn't hurt his love. he wont become his more quiet self until Naruto and him really meet. I'm loosely basing this off of how he was with Naruto in their battle, just less bloodthirsty.) Sasuke looked a bit shocked at how Gaara, other than the Chidori wound seemed totally fine, not like he was just getting a beat down. Sasuke began attacking again, sending off fireballs and lightning as well as attacking with his speedy Taijutsu. This time, Gaara spent time dodging and blocking the attacks while countering with his own sand based attacks.

Without the Sharingan, Sasuke would have been done for. It was a battle of skills, prodigy versus 'demon' boy and it was amazing. The fight was so intriguing that I almost completely forgot about the supposed invasion that should be happening. The tide of the battle turned when a massive, and I mean massive wave of sand raised up behind Gaara. All the sand he was creating was enough to crush this entire arena. Sasuke, along with everyone else looked wide eyed at the crazy amounts of sand Gaara could manipulate. He raised both of his hands in front of hum, palms facing Skyward.

"Sand Tsunami" The massive wall of sand went crashing down from every direction, heading straight for Sasuke. He had no chance of dodging this attack and he knew it. My chest constricted painfully, I was nervous, was Gaara really going to try to kill Sasuke. I pushed off Kakashi's hand and got ready to go stop the attack, Naruto was looking ready to change into 9-tails mode, and there were lots of people screaming for Sasuke to run. I took a step forward when my eyes met the sea foam eyes of Gaara. He gave me a small smile, a real one and I relaxed. His look said everything, he wasn't going to kill Sasuke and I just had to trust that.

The sand wrapped all around Sasuke's body, leaving only his head peaking out the top. It was like the headhunter jutsu and if the room wasn't so tense, I'd laugh at how ridiculous his duckbutt head looked sticking out like that. "Give up Sasuke Uchiha, any effort to get out of this attack is futile." Kankuro and Temari gasped, they knew his bloodlust first hand and never thought he would give somebody the option to concede instead of just killing them. Sasuke's head looked down in slight shame, he winced as the sand kept tightening around him.

"I. Give." Sasuke grit out the words like they were killing him to say. There goes his Uchiha pride. The crowd went silent, everyone was shocked at the Uchiha, the person who was thought to win the entire exam, lost in his first round. Gaara was the first one back up here, I gave him a hug and thanked him for not killing Sasuke. His tense body finally relaxed into my hug, and he returned it, mumbling something under his breath. Sasuke looked so defeated, yet he held an aura of pride, I think he realized that Gaara is in a league of his own with his sand defense, and with a beast inside of him like Naruto, there was no hope of him winning at this skill level. I was a little on edge because the invasion hasn't happened and I have no fucking clue what is going on, but I just pushed it aside.

"Duckbutt!" I called out happily, he turned to me, a small smirk making its way onto his pale face, then a frown when he saw I was just with Gaara. I jumped on Sasuke's back, purposely making him grunt and stumble from my force.

"I knew you couldn't keep your hands off of me, fangirl." He smirked at me yet let me stay on his back.

"dude that was awesome, I mean you lasted way longer against Gaara than anyone else. And the Chidori, that was so cool! You had all of your fangirls swooning when you did it. What's up with the outfit though, I mean, the arm bands are super dope, but why change it up?"I pestered him with questions while the proctors were doing something. Sasuke chuckled.

"You're just as annoying as the dobe." Naruto shouted an indignant 'Teme!' "The Chidori ruined my other clothes." I nodded in understanding but stopped myself from talking as my and Kabuto's names were called. Kakashi pat my shoulder in assurance and I could just feel Zabuza glaring at me to not lose.

"Kick four-eyes' ass Hina-chan!" Naruto said as we fist bumped.

"Hn. You better not lose freak, can't let the dobe be the only one who passes."

"Maximum Effort!" I embraced my inner Deadpool and hopped into the arena, doing a superhero landing. Kabuto slowly made his way over to Genma and I, his glasses reflecting the light as he put a suspicious smirk on his face. Kabuto and I shook hands and Genma retreated to safety. Kabuto held onto my hand and pulled me to him so he could whisper in my ear.

"I can't make you bleed. Maybe I'll even let you enjoy my chakra again, I know I'm going to enjoy feeling yours." He purred creepily. "Lets give my master the show he wants." I pushed myself away from him, heavily weirded out.

"The only thing you'll feel from me is my fist in your face." It was kind of lame, but I was too flustered to say anything else. Why the fuck is he talking like that about my chakra, like its some kind of addictive opium. Genma called out for us to start and I moved away from Kabuto. I really don't want a chakra scalpel to the thigh again, that hurt like a all my thought's aside, I focused on the battle in front of me. He is at the caliber of Kakashi, so I have to fight my hardest for any chance of winning. I activated my Byakugan and watched as Kabuto sent his chakra into his hands, thinning out his chakra into blades around each of his hands.

He charged at me with blinding speed, his hand aiming for my thigh, but I jumped up, grabbed onto his wrist adding chakra into my hand to crush it, and threw him over my shoulder, spinning my body away from his to avoid the slice of his opposite hand. He landed with cat like reflexes, skidding back slightly. I landed across from him, a good distance away yet again. He flexed his wrist and I could hear the bones cracking together, but almost right away, the cracking stopped. I knew his healing factor was unbelievable but to be able to counter my attack as I gave it, and heal the rest so quickly, that should be impossible.

I stared Kabuto down as I made the hand signs I've been going over for the past month. I felt the air around me, pushing my chakra out into it. I grasped at the moisture all around me with my chakra, pulling it from peoples water bottles and from the moisture hanging in the air. Pouring more chakra out of my body and into the water around me, I concentrated as my chakra fused the water together while adding in heat to it, turning it into a grey cloud of mist. Half of the arena around us was covered in dense, chakra laced mist from the Hidden Mist jutsu. I watched through the mist, locating Kabuto. I connected a small stream of chakra from my ears into the mist, searching around until I connected with his, latching onto his chakra, I pushed it to his heard until I heard the familiar 'thump' of a heart beat. His was beating excitingly, not nervous or erratic, just like someone who is really happy. I tuned out all of the noise around me, the crowd disappeared, the arena disappeared, all that was left was Kabuto and I, all I could see and hear was him.

I padded my feet with Chakra to silence my footsteps and ran at him, my hands ready for a chakra infused punch. I swing my hand at him, but he sensed I was there and dodged to the left, right into the path of the roundhouse I had altered my movements to allow. The kick connected with his chakra protected gut and he rammed into the wall, the cement around him cracking like a spiderweb, large chunks falling to the ground. He coughed up blood, but wiped it off, standing back up like I did nothing wrong. The mist was still surrounding us so I wont in for another attack, doing my best to switch between Hyuuga and olympic style fighting so he can't predict my moves. The problem was most of my hits missed, he knew where I was and was ready to dodge everything. I knew his chakra was going to give out on healing him soon, but it still felt like he was playing with me.

"How do you know where I am? I don't get it." I asked annoyed as I dispersed the mist, it wasn't helping me enough right now to keep using my chakra for it. Kabuto plastered a creepy smile on his face and pushed up his glasses.

"Your chakra is so wonderful, addicting even, and I can just feel it when you're near me. When I healed you that day, I was also connecting out chakras. That calming you felt was from me forcing your chakra to mix with mine, I never knew anyone's chakra other than Orochimaru-sama could feel so tantalizing. So now, because I know your chakra, what it feels like within me, I can sense your presence." His grin became like a madman. He's like a vampire but for my chakra. What the hell, why'd he have to make it sound so intimate. I shivered a bit and with the distraction he caused, I was slow enough in my reaction that he landed an attack to my right hip, making it so if I put any weight down it's hurt like a bitch, and either way, my leg was useless, with my hip disconnected, I couldn't run or fight. I fell to the ground and I heard a loud scream, only registering it was me when the pain flooded my system. "Ahh, so defenseless now, like a little bunny. Maybe I should get another fix of your chakra." My anger began to surface, at myself and at Kabuto.

"How cute, the only way you can have a girl is when they can't fucking walk. I bet your mom is so proud" I grit out attempting not to cry in pain. Being the asshole I'll admit I am sometimes, the mom thing was a low blow. I knew it when his eyes seemed to flash red. "I only need you living to feel your chakra."

He lunged and I basically channeled Rock Lee as I did a handstand and jumped backwards from his attack. I let myself down and pulled the water I previously dispersed back together with my chakra, making a water snake. I allowed the top of the head of the snake to cover my lower half, up to my waist, expelling chakra to keep me steady in the snake. My chakra flowed throughout my jutsu and I forced it to move, the snake following my directions. If I cant walk, I'll have to ride. I took a glance to Zabuza, he was smirking in pride. I raised myself higher into the air to hover over Kabuto in a hopefully intimidating manner.

He started making unfamiliar hand signs so I activated my Byakugan to hopefully figure out what he was going to do. His chakra burst into the ground, he was going to do an earth ninjutsu. Earth can overpower water, but is weak to lightning. If I have a water jutsu stronger than his Earth one, or use lightning hopefully I can win. He finished his hand signs and a bunch of rocks came shooting out of the ground. I did my best to get my snake to dodge, but it was futile and a few managed to hit, sending me tumbling back to the ground. My head made contact with the earth and I felt the blood dripping down my face. There were scratches and bruises littering my body now but I wasn't ready to give up.

I re-made the snake, getting back to riding it, I can't be a sitting duck. My chakra was depleting bit by bit. Kabuto prepared another Earth Jutsu, his whole body was exerting a massive blood lust. Instead of being fearful like any sane person, I let myself enjoy the fight, the adrenaline, the insanity. I began to wrap my water snake around Kabuto, curling like a python around his prey. He was going to finish his hand seals to get out of it, but I did my 6 seals just as fast.

"Earth Style: Boulder rain"

"Water Dragon Jutsu" We shouted at the same time. Miniature boulders began to raise up from the ground, then started falling, crashing and destroying what they hit. A giant water dragon emerged from the base of my snake and I aimed the dragon right at Kabuto, hitting him dead on. A boulder hit my side and I released the jutsu's, but I knew I had the upper hand, I was positioned in my fall right over the barely conscious Kabuto. Blood was dripping down his mouth from the dragon's impact. I put more chakra into my fist aiming it at his chest.

"Falcon Punch!" (A/N when I throw a punch thats what I say in real life) I released chakra on impact, I heard the sickening cracking his sternum and knocked him out. The ground beneath him was demolished and we were laying in a small crater.

"Winner Hinata Hyuuga." The crowd went wild in awe at both Kabuto's and my skills. Zabuza popped up, right by my side. He picked me up as gentle as he could and was carrying me in his arms. I raised my fist and plastered a pained grin on my face. Naruto's cheering was the loudest of them all, but some of my other friends were giving me worried glances. I probably looked like shit.

"You did good kid." Zabuza said as he looked over my visible wounds. There was a burst of KI and Gaara was by my side, his eyes glaring dangerously at Kabuto. He raised his hand and sand began to wrap around Kabuto.

"You hurt her, I'll kill you." He yelled out. I tried to talk to him, but he wasn't listening. Before Gaara could kill Kabuto, Gai came and forced the sand away but not before Gaara completely took off one of Kabuto's legs from the knee down. I turned away, burying my head in Zabuza's chest, determined not to puke at the horrific sight.

That was the trigger to the shit show of the invasion.

---

(Sasori POV) The start of the final stage of the exams (A/N this is to introduce the Akatsuki and Sasori, of course they'd be interested in a girl who knew his secrets. Sorry his personality isn't perfectly crafted yet, I wont do his pov anymore probably cuz its hard to get Sasori's attitude down like that)

I was sitting with the idiot bomber teammate of mine. My subordinate told me of a leaf Genin who knew of my identity and that he was my and the snake's spy. She knows too much and I need to know how some rookie leaf village brat knows so much. Leader found this out and we were sent to gather intel on this girl, as well as the 1-tails that will be there. I was in the stands surrounded by rowdy people. I'm annoyed, the girl hasn't even shown up yet and I'm sick of waiting around for her with Deidara who won't shut his mouth about his failure that he claims as art. My eyes were trained on the red-head from my home village. The jinchuriki for Shukaku. I heard he was a bloodthirsty monster who everyone is afraid of, but he just looks like a brat to me. I need to see how his sand defense works. He was standing there glaring harshly at his teammates, but his body language shifted to be happier when the door opened. My eyes narrowed at the girl who walked through the door.

Hinata Hyuuga, she had long blue hair and a doll like face and body. She looked weak, a little doll that is meant for dressing up and being married off. That was until I saw her eyes. They were large and doll-like, but held a ferocity I would love to see drain from them. Her eyes traveled the room, they were calculating and held intelligence behind them. She looks so harmless, if not for her eyes I would not believe she could be the girl Kabuto told me about. Her gaze stopped at the jinchuriki and instead of fearing him like everyone else, she smiled and stood next to him, their shoulders brushing. Interesting, she befriended a murdering demon child. She smiled a kind and goofy smile at the boy and he melted like the brat he is. The demon is in love with her, that is useful to know. She tensed up and her eyes caught mine. We stared at one another and slight recognition flashed in her eyes. Her emotions were right on her face, she is not a real ninja, she is too emotional, imperfect; yet, something is intriguing about her.

"Danna, thats the girl yeah? She's cute but looks weak un." I broke contact and turned to the idiot beside me, and we discussed the analysis about her and the jinchuriki.

After the brat Gaara's fight, it was finally time for the Hyuuga. Her battle was brutal and she seemed to mess around a lot, she has a big mouth that is very foul. I was impressed with her skill, she looks like a perfect little doll but fights unforgivingly. She is no where near a Genin level. She moves quick and agile in ways I've never seen, her chakra control is flawless like mine, her strength is that of the bimbo Sanin Tsunade, and her water mastery is unlike anyone I've ever seen. She is worthy of being my puppet, she will continue to be as beautiful as she is for all eternity and she will not be able to open her annoying mouth. I stood up and began to leave.

"Lets go brat, I don't like to be kept waiting."

---

Gaara's sand was swirling widely, preparing to attack Gai, but a loud explosion in the Kage's box stopped him, along with everyone else. All the attention turned to the explosion, and when the dust cleared, the Kazekage and a few other Sand ninja were holding the Hokage hostage at knife point. The 'Kazekage' smirked and let out an evil chuckle, then disappeared with Lord Third, Leaf ANBU hot on his trail. Not a second later, the arena was being overrun with Sand and Sound ninja, all of them aiming to kill. It was complete and utter chaos, everywhere I looked, people were fighting, dying, or fleeing. Kunai were barreling at Gaara, but his sand blocked them all, rendering them useless. Any ninja that attempted to get near me and Zabuza, Gaara crushed them mercilessly. Zabuza lowered me to the ground, his eyes filled with lust for battle, yet there was still worry. I hissed as my hip touched the ground, this is literally the worst time to not be able to walk.

"Hinata, I'm going to set your hip, I'm no doctor and this is going to hurt like a bitch but you better not cry about it brat. We need you moving, I cant protect you if I cant fight." I nodded and bit down on my lip, preparing myself for pain. The tendons are wrecked, but if the bone is in place again, I'll at least be able to walk for now. Zabuza placed his large hands on My hips and with a hard push, there was a crack and my hip was no longer dislodged from its socket. I let out a loud string of curses, my mouth more foul than normal. Zabuza chuckled and pat my head, knowing I'd be fine.

"Dammit Motherfucker, that shit hurts like a fucking bitch." Before standing up, I ripped off my fishnet shirt and tied it as tight as I could around my hip, so at least it could have the slightest bit of stability. I pushed myself up, ignoring all of the thoughts of needing to stop moving. Four sand and two sound Shinobi surrounded Gaara, Zabuza, and I. They looked deadly, and by the malicious looks on both Gaara and Zabuza's faces, they were all top notch ninja. The sound Shinobi drew Zabuza away in a feirce battle and leaving the rest to Gaara and I. I pulled out my dagger for the first time in a while, blocking the sword swiped at me, but I was still off balance and the ninja kicked me, aiming for my injured hip.

I moved enough to redirect the hit to my thigh, but the pain flared throughout my leg. While I was busy with this guy, the other 3 were fighting Gaara. Gaara managed to crush one of his opponents but with perfect precision, the other two landed attacks. The taller ninja sent a massive wave of water at Gaara, dampening his sand making it heavy and too slow to guard from most attacks. When this happened, the other shinobi landed a heavy blow to Gaara, injecting him with some kind of extremely potent sleeper agent. Fuck, they dragged Gaara off somewhere to release Shukaku themselves since he was so unwilling. The ninja I was fighting was about to send another attack but stopped as a Kunai was sticking out of his chest.

"Hinata. Go with Pakkun. I'll send Naruto and Sasuke as backup." Kakashi ordered, all hints of his playfulness gone. He was a deadly ninja now, Kakashi the Sharingan Warrior. Pakkun was summoned and he took off, me following behind him, gritting my teeth as I did my best to ignore the excruciating pain my hip was sending throughout my leg. After a few minutes, we made it to a small clearing. I perched on the trees, watching to see what I needed to do. Gaara was awake again, he luckily wasn't out long enough to release Shukaku yet. There was chakra suppressors on his arms, preventing him from doing anything. The shorter ninja from before punched and kicked Gaara repeatedly.

"You damn demon, you know your role in the invasion. Release Shukaku or we will make you!" He roared, sending another kick to Gaara, who this time coughed up blood. Gaara just grinned up at the men.

"I'll kill each and everyone of you, I cant wait to feel alive as the red of your blood glistens in my sand." I shivered at the tone of his voice, it was excited and angry. A bad combination for him. Another punch was sent to Gaara's face. His normally black eyes were swollen, and there were bruises littering his usually perfect skin.

"If you wont cooperate, I will just kill you. I'm sure the village wont miss a psychopathic demon like you. I know your dear father wouldn't." The man pulled out a kunai, walking towards Gaara with a look of lust. He was so ready to kill Gaara. He brought the Kunai down, piercing through Gaara's forearm. The two Sand Shinobi laughed in pure glee as they ripped out the Kunai and drove it back down on Gaara. I saw red, my anger reached it's peak. Gaara, a boy who had the misfortune of growing up with the Shittiest life imaginable, betrayed by everyone he loved and was taught to hate the world. Yet, somehow he found away to change, he protected me when I was so easy to kill, he decided to go against his village, not releasing Shukaku just to protect the place I love. He was my friend, my family and they were just torturing him for the fun of it. It's the same as Naruto, they were one and the same. How can people be so cruel and hateful, they are not worth donning the title of Shinobi, having no reason to hurt Gaara but for their own pleasure. Something inside me snapped and I appeared right before one of the men, clutching his hand in mine, crushing all of the bones with ease.

"Don't touch him you monster." I growled out, my voice was shaking with anger. "He has done nothing to you, yet you attack and torture him. You all fear him because of what your village put inside of him, but you beat on him when he wont release what you are all so scared of. He is a hero, containing the beast that could so easily take you out, yet you treat him like the monster so I'll say it again. Don't. Touch. Gaara." Instead of crying out like I thought he would with a crushed hand, he laughed right in my face.

"You idiotic little girl trying to play the hero. You just fell into our trap. I see the way you interact with the demon, and how much he cares about you. I knew you'd follow even in your pathetic state and now you're my leverage." His teammate came up and restrained me, putting pressure on my hip and holding my hands tightly behind me. With his broken hand, he raised the kunai to my throat, and just to be an asshole, he threw another Kunai at Gaara, hitting him where Sasuke's Chidori struck. "Demon boy, If you want her to live, release Shukaku." Gaara stood up and closed his eyes in defeat.

"Fine, but remember this, I will kill you both for touching her." My eyes widened in fear.

"No Gaara, please you don't have to do this." I cried out, my voice weak and pleading. The Shinobi with the broken hand made a mistake. He removed the suppression cuffs from Gaara and there was only one man holding me down. Gaara raised his sand to kill them, but I saw the new man who appeared behind him. Gaara's sand was still slow and couldn't block the attack, so I did what needed to be done.

I twisted out of my captors grip, giving him a gentle fist to the chest. His chakra to his lungs and heart were severed and he dropped town to the ground dead. The unknown man readied a kunai, but I was faster and I threw mine with accuracy I never had before. The kunai pierced right between his eyes. The third man, I took out with a chakra infused punch to the head, crushing his skull. I could feel and see the life of each of them leave and it was when the final man dropped to the ground that I realized what I'd done. I'd taken a life, something I never have done. I knew it was coming and would be part of the job but I never actually thought about it too much, taking a life with my own hands. That's what scared me, it was so easy and I did it with no hesitation. My hands were covered in blood, maybe not literally, but it was still there. What right do I have to play god, I know I said I would do anything to protect my friends, but I killed 3 men.

I sank to my knees, my senses completely shut off. All I could see was the blood covering my hands and pooling around me. I could feel my chakra severing the man's chakra in his heart, I could see the way my kunai pierced the man's head, spraying his gray matter across the trees, I could feel the man's skull collapse. Oh god could I feel his skull collapse, I could feel it in perfect quality as my fist made contact with his skull, the feeling of it cracking like a cracker. I didn't even know I could do that and yet I did it with perfect ease.

I knew exactly where to hit and what to do to kill each man effortlessly. All I could feel were their deaths, it was all my fault. I did it, I did it with no hesitation, and the thing that scares me the most is I'd do it again. I feel guilty, I feel so guilty for taking their lives but I feel no regret. It was them or us, and I chose us. I will always choose us. Shouldn't I feel more bad, does this make me the monster? I ignored the 'blood' that covered my body and put my hands over my eyes. Crying loudly.

"I killed them, I killed them." I chanted over an over. I killed them and I would kill them again and again to save Gaara. I can still see their deaths, I can feel it. I killed them, then everything went white.

(3d POV)

Gaara watched in silence as the blue haired girl broke down. She sunk to her knees and her usually lively face was blank, her piercing lavender eyes were wide, glazed over, and lifeless as she stared at her hands. He watched confused and helpless as he didn't know how to comfort his friend and didn't fully understand why she was acting the way she was. His heart was beating fast, his palms were clammy, and he felt so warm inside. She saved him from death, she saw his as more than a monster, she calmed down the raging beast inside. It was one thing for her to tell Gaara that she would show him love and care, he began to believe her when she was around him, but he finally understood when she stood up for him in front of the people torturing him.

He couldn't even feel the pain inflicted on him because he felt so... happy. At first Gaara knew he wanted to keep her close because she was strong and would be fun to kill, but over time, she wormed her way into his heart. She was his friend and he thought that they could kill everyone and be together forever. He would be more than what Yashamaru made him as. Her plight began to click into place as Gaara listened to her mumbling.

"I killed them. I killed them." Her usually sweet sounding voice whispered in horror. Gaara finally understood. It was her first kill and she was traumatized. He remembered the pain from his first kill and he realized, despite never having killed, she was willing to Kill for him. To kill so he didn't have to kill anymore. Those hidden whispers of murder in his mind finally silenced and he felt as if the veil of hatred over his eyes was lifted. Gaara walked over to Hinata, she was completely silent now. The blank look still remaining. Carefully, he picked her up but she made no reaction to acknowledge his existence. Using his sand, they flew to somewhere safe. The battles were ending and Gaara knew the leaf had won since the sand and sound were retreating. Gaara found the blond boy who radiated sunshine. He and the dark haired boy were standing over his siblings and Baki. All defeated. The emotions he'd been suppressing with hatred came forth and although it was all new and scary, he felt worried.

Naruto and Sasuke looked up from Temari, Baki, and Kankuro and saw a bloodied Gaara carrying Hinata, she looked defeated and like the life was sucked out of her. Gaara was from the sand like those who attacked. Sasuke was nervous, he knew he couldn't last in another fight with Gaara, he had to put his hope in Naruto.

"What the hell did you do to her you bastard. Let her GO!" Naruto yelled out in anger, ready to give another person a Therapy Jutsu beatdown. Gaara lowered his sand to the ground, still unwilling to let go of the girl who saved him. Gaara dismissed Sasuke and walked right towards the blonde. The boy who had the same eyes as himself, the one who he knew would lay down his life to help Hinata.

"Naruto Uzumaki. I am no threat to Hinata. She saved me. I know she saved you too, you are like me. I can see it in your eyes." Naruto looked in Gaara's eyes seeing himself as a lonely young boy. They connected, an unbreakable bond was formed at that moment, he knows why Hinata wanted them to meet now. A friend who was just like him. Against his better judgement, Naruto knew he could trust Gaara. He took a step forward but was stopped by Sasuke who was still hesitant about Gaara. Naruto ignored him and gave Gaara a small friendly smile before averting his gaze to Hinata. She looked so pitiful it was hard to look at. Naruto placed his hand on her cheek but she didn't move at all, it was like she couldn't feel him.

"What. happened." Sasuke asked his Uchiha glare in full force. Gaara looked him in the eye, unflinching.

"She killed them to save me." Sasuke and Naruto froze, their eyes trained on the blank girl. Naruto knew what she was feeling, the pain of killing somebody. He was lucky, he didn't remember killing them, but she was fully aware, she felt every kill. She would feel the guilt, the regret and he knew he'd have to console her the way she did him. Her heart was so big and loving, to kill somebody might break her without the right support. Sasuke was extremely worried, the only time he's ever seen Hinata look so broken was after the massacre when she blamed the deaths of my family on herself. This time though, there is no spark what so ever, she took their lives directly.

The young ninja's had an agreement. Gaara hesitantly handed Hinata off to Naruto, who carried her small tense body with care Sasuke has never seen him exercise. Gaara picked up his siblings with his sand, and after one more glance and the unspoken new friendship with Naruo, he fled. Sasuke ran his hands through his hair before shoving them deeply in his pockets. Together he and Naruto made their way through the trees back to the village. They knew they needed to find Kakashi and Shisui, they were the best options of fixing their teammate.

Naruto dropped Hinata off in the hospital to get her physical injuries healed and hightailed it to find Kakashi-sensei, not ready for the news that is to come. Naruto went to the arena where he last saw Kakahsi, and after a few minutes of searching, he found the silver haired Jonin dragging bodies of enemy ninja into the pile for them to be sent off to the autopsy corps. Naruto could feel the overwhelming aura of sadness filling the air, it was so depressing it made the happy blonde struggle to breathe. Naruto bounded over to Kakashi, dragging him along to the hospital as he informed him of what happened. Kakashi knew it was going to be a difficult few days for everyone, he was worried about telling Naruto Lord Third died, he did not want to have two depressed students and a Sasuke. Kakashi sent a shadow clone to inform Zabuza so that Zabuza can inform her father. Yet another emotional conversation Kakashi did not think he was qualified or mentally stable enough to have.

Sasuke left to his house to find Shisui, praying with every fiber of his being that Shisui was not injured in the mass destruction that the village has gone through. He released a sigh of relief when he made it to his block and there was only minor damage done. Sasuke bust into his home and just by Sasuke mumbling Hinata's name, Shisui took Sasuke and body flickered into the hospital where he was informed of the situation. As a pacifist, Shisui knows the toll a first kill can take on someone, especially someone as people loving as Hinata. She may be violent, but he didn't think she had the heart to kill. He allowed Sasuke to lead him to his precious Imouto's room.

Hiashi and Zabuza were the last to arrive, but the sight was not a pretty one. Hinata was laying in her bed still staring down at her hands looking lifeless. Nothing anyone tried would wake her up, it was as if she was in a trance and no words could break her out of it. Kakashi knew the look well, she was not traumatized for killing those men, she was not scared of anyone but herself. The problem she had was with herself, not with the act of killing somebody else. He knew that look because it was the same one he saw in the mirror every day. He just wanted to know why she was so at odds with herself, he did not like the look in her eyes. It reminded him so much of all the death he has seen, the look of life leaving somebodies eyes. Zabuza knew Hinata was panicking, the first kill always is the hardest whether its for regret or lack thereof and he knew the only way to snap Hinata out of her trance. Tough love was what he could give, he'd wake her up and leave the coddling to someone else. Crying brats will always be gross.

Zabuza walked up to Hinata and raised his hand, they thought he was finally going to show some normal affection with a pat on the head or something but jaws dropped when Zabuza brought his hand down and slapped the blue-haired beauty right across the face. The only sound was the echo of his hand on her face. Kakashi and Hiashi knew the blow up that was to come so each of them grabbed ahold of her teammates, stopping them from attacking Zabuza. Both boys stopped their struggling when they saw Hinata. Her eyes were no longer dull grey, they had the color and life back in them and there were tears streaming down her finally expressive face.

(Hinata POV)

The white around me faded as there was a stinging on my face and I felt my head snap sideways. It dawned on me that someone just slapped the shit out of me. It couldn't have come sooner, the white around me was driving me to insanity. All of my thoughts came flooding and water unwillingly fell from my eyes. I'm a monster. I'm a murderer and I feel no regret for it. What kind of horrible person am I. Was I just sent here so that I could realize that I'm not a hero, that I'll never be. Was I sent here to realize how much of a horrible person I am, I mean what kind of hero kills somebody and feels NO regret.

I finally lifted my head from looking at my bloody hands, the hands of a monster. Surrounding me were Naruto, Sasuke, Kakashi, Zabuza, and my dad; each wearing a different expression. Naruto began to coddle me, telling me how it's ok and I'm not a bad person for killing. That the regret will always be there but it will lessen overtime. I kept getting various people telling me to not regret it and that killing doesn't make me a bad person or that they know killing is hard but it's apart of life as a ninja. I finally snapped, done with them trying to make me feel better about the monster I am. Maybe I do belong as a rogue, someone who kills and never looks back.

"Shut up. Just shut the fuck up. Don't try to coddle me or tell me I did the right thing. I know damn well I did the right thing, what I was trained to do. It was us or them and I chose us. Don't try to make me out as a hero either. I'm not a fucking hero, don't you see that I'm a monster. I killed them, I killed all three of them without batting an eyelash. I didn't hesitate, it was easy and I feel no regret what so ever, if it came down to it. I'd kill them again and again. Even with feeling the man's skull crack under my fist or the kunai lodged into the other's brain. I don't regret one second of it. What kind of monster doesn't regret murdering someone." I yelled out at them, hoping that something anything would let them see me for what I am.

Maybe if they hate me, then I can finally accept I will never be a hero. The room was silent, everyone was staring at me with wide eyes. Dad, Zabuza, Shisui, and Sasuke were the first to leave. It was tense and I was waiting for the rest to leave me, leave me like the cold-blooded killer I am. Who did I think I was playing, I wanted to be a hero so bad but when it came down to it, my heart is just not worthy of being one. Something is wrong with me.

"Naruto. Leave." Kakashi stated. Naruto looked between us, a hurt look on his face.

"But B-but K-." He stuttered out. Kakashi kept his eyes locked with me, not looking at Naruto.

"Now." That was an order and Naruto agreed, leaving with his head hanging low. Kakashi moved in silent grace, pulling up a chair next to my bed.

"You think you're a monster is that right? Why you shut down and scared your friends and family." His voice was calm but it had sharp edge in it. I felt compelled by his intensity to converse with him, if anything I wanted to see what he was getting at.

"Yes."

"How did you kill them?"

"The first one I severed his chakra between his lungs and heart. The second I threw a kunai straight through his head. The third one I punched him so hard his skull con-caved beneath my fist. I can still feel it each kill. The feeling won't go away. My hands are covered in their blood." Kakashi held my hands and rubbed circles on my palms while he watched me, his stare unwavering.

"Do you regret killing them?" I sighed, I already told him I didn't regret anything.

"No."

"Did you hesitate?"

"No."

"Why?"

"Because they were going to kill Gaara so I stopped them."

"Gaara has killed, why didn't you let him kill them?"

"His sand was wet and would have moved too slow, I didn't want to risk it."

"What if he could have killed them, would you still have reacted the same?"

"Yes."

"Why?" I was getting frustrated by his constant pestering, I know I'm a monster so why is he trying to re-affirm that. I took a minute to try to from my thoughts into words.

"Because Gaara has killed before, he was finally changing and I didn't want him to feel like a monster anymore. I would have still killed them so he didn't have to."

"So you killed them to protect Gaara?"

"Yes."

"And you don't feel remorse?"

"Yes." I growled out.

"Would you feel guilty if you didn't kill them and instead Gaara or yourself got killed?"

"Yes."

"Did you like killing them? Was it enjoyable?"

"No. I hated the feeling of killing them."

"Then why was it so easy?"

"Because I'm a monster."

"No." Kakashi stated firmly.

"Excuse me? What the hell do you mean no. I'm a monster, I killed easily and I don't feel any regret about it."

"Do you think I'm a monster?" Kakashi asked. I gaped at him.

"What, no of course not."

"i've killed, I kill all the time and I do it with no hesitation. I can take my Chidori and crush someone's heart without even blinking. I feel no remorse. So I'll ask you again. Am I a monster?"
"No, you do it because you are protecting the people you love."

"So did you. You killed to protect Gaara. What about that makes you a monster?" My head was rolling, I was struggling to comprehend how easily Kakashi rationalized my feelings.

"I-. I." I stuttered, trying to voice my thought's. I was stumped. I feel like a monster, but when Kakashi explains it to me, it makes it sound less bad, more like a ninja than a monster.

"From where I stand, you are not a monster, you are now a real Kunoichi. You were trained to kill. You killed for the most honorable reason, to protect your friend. You did not like killing, you hated it. A monster would like the killing. You didn't hesitate because your heart is so full of love, you would do anything to protect the people you care about, your body figured that out faster than your brain did. You feel no remorse because you subconsciously know you did the right thing. You killed for the right reasons and you feel this way now because you at some level feel guilty for killing even if you would do it again. To me, that makes you an outstanding ninja, a true hero." My mouth was wide open, gaping like a fish. Everything I thought about, I was only thinking about pieces of it, putting my fear of not being able to be a hero into my thoughts on killing. Kakashi eased the tension in the room and let out a chuckle. He patted my head with a closed eye smile. I grabbed his hand and pulled him to me, hugging him tightly and mumbling thank you's into his dirty Jonin vest. Kakashi placed his masked lips on my forehead tenderly then did a two finger salute as he flickered away.

Naruto was the first one back in my room and I was tackled into a hug.

"Don't you ever scare me like than Hina-chan. I thought we'd lost you for a second dattebayo. Just because you killed doesn't make you a monster. Remember what you told me, it's only when you enjoy the killing that you become a monster." Naruto said with a smile, his blue eyes boring into my lavender ones. "Oh yeah before I forget, what about that Gaara kid. What's his story?" Naruto's eyes shined in anticipation, so I told him the story of Gaara's oh so wonderful life. At the end, Naruto's fists were clenched, but he had a bright determined smile on his face. "That's it, I'm going to make sure he never feels alone again!" For the first time since my mental break, a small smile graced my lips. Being with Naruto helps me forget all of the dark thoughts threatening to plague my mind, he really is light in the darkness. There is still that voice telling me I'll fail, that I'm not worth being a hero, that my existence here ruined everything for everyone; but with the help of people like Kakashi did today, maybe just maybe it won't take control again.

The next day, the news of Orochimaru killing the Hokage spread throughout the village. He died valiantly in battle, protecting the village he loves until his last breath. Naruto and Shisui were both a mess. I pushed away the sadness as much as I could to be strong for them. They both knew Lord Third so well, he was family to them, he cared for them without a doubt and I had to be strong, be their shoulder to cry on for once.

I spent time with my friends and family for the days preceding the funeral, but no matter what, I couldn't stop feeling the death. I could still see the blood on my hands. Sleeping at night, my dreams were filled with murder. My hands crushing skulls, destroying chakra networks without remorse. I'd wake up each night in a cold sweat, my hands covered in blood that wouldn't come off. I'd see myself kill over and over until it would drive me mad. The worst was I could still barely walk and so there was nothing I could do to get my mind off of it, all I could do was stare into nothingness.

The first two weeks after the attack were tense. Everyone was in mourning after the loss of the Hokage and the village was in disarray trying to figure out who the next Hokage is going to be. Not having a Kage makes the village weak, and especially after an attack, the village is more susceptible to be taken over and/or destroyed. There were meetings held that my dad and Kakashi had to attend to determine the Hokage. Although I haven't met Jiraiya yet, I know he was there too. While they were doing that, I was stuck in physical therapy in the Hospital. My hip was fully healed, but from the lack of use it was weak and so I had to do muscle movements to make sure the tendons would work properly and so the bone wouldn't come out of place. It wasn't the worst, but it definitely wasn't fun being stuck in the boring and gross hospital.

I would have never made it through if I didn't have visitors. Surprisingly Kiba visited me the most, him and Akamaru came to most of my lessons and egged me on to keep me more determined to heal faster; mainly to end his constant shit talking. Shino usually tagged along with Kiba as a silent moral support. Whenever it would hurt or I'd fall down, Shino would catch me and make me keep going. Whenever I wasn't in PT, Naruto or Neji was there to take care of me. I was never hungry thanks to the abundance of ramen from Naruto and vegetable based meals from Neji. Since my dad was gone most of the time, Hanabi stayed alternating between Neji and Lady Seiko. I stayed with Sasuke and Shisui and they took me to the hospital every day. Zabuza would come in to check on me, but because of the village turmoil, he was assisting TI with any of the captured ninja and spent time with his precious Anko. Surprisingly, Gaara and I became pen pals. It started when he sent me a letter that read:

Hinata,

I would like to thank you. I left you and I am worried on how you are feeling after killing those men for me. I sincerely apologize for the fact that you had to protect me, next time I will protect you. I will not understand why you care so much, but my gratitude knows no bounds. You changed me, took me from a lonely monster and made me want to become a good person. It is difficult and I still do not comprehend many things people do. Maybe one day you will come to visit me and help me understand feeling. I have also written to Naruto Uzumaki, he is like me, he has my eyes. I believe he and I have formed what you call a bond of friendship. You and Naruto both speak so highly of your dreams and I think I have finally decided on a dream to honor you and to redeem myself. My dream is to become Kazekage. You gave me a purpose and I vow that I will be there whenever you ask of me.

Best wishes my dear Hinata,

Gaara.

It was so sweet, some of the darkness I felt plaguing me was lightened by his letter. He and I write to each other every day, him telling me of new experiences and unknown feelings, along with his bond with his siblings and training to become Kazekage for his people. He writes like a sweet and innocent prince, such a contrast from the Gaara I first met. I write him about anything and everything to keep him updated and just because I like to imagine his relations to my crazy stories. I promised him I'd visit and would make him laugh. From what I can tell, Naruto is even more excited to write to Gaara. He gets so cute and giddy every time Gaara sends him a new letter. They really have formed a friendship and I couldn't be more happy.

It was the day before Naruto told me I was going to meet Jiraiya, apparently aside from being Naruto's homie, I peaked his interest based off my performance in the Chunin exams. My hip was almost fully healed and I was walking through the crumbled village to get back to my house so I could hang out with Hanabi for a little bit. The familiar mutter of "What a drag" came from one of the only restaurants not needing to be rebuilt. A big smile lit up my face, it's been so long since I've seen Shika and Choji. I ran inside the restaurant and found Shika, Choji, and Ino enjoying some Bakudan and Onigiri. My heart began beating erratically, afraid of seeing Ino after going off on her. I didn't want to deal with more of her incessant torment of my failure as a woman. I slowed to a stop and turned around as inconspicuously as I could but just like in a fucking movie, Shikamaru noticed me.

"Hinata?" I slowly turned back around, a sheepish smile on my face. Shikamaru narrowed his eyes, staring directly into my soul. I knew I couldn't hide anything from him, he always knew exactly what I was thinking even before I did. His eyes went back to his normal state and flickered to Ino in understanding. Ino put her head down a bit, avoiding my eye contact which was weird, she has never been the timid type. Choji took a break from eating and chatting with Ino to smile and wave at me.

"Hey Hinata-chan. Long time no see, are you going to come eat with us? Shikamaru-kun has been complaining about not seeing you." Shikamaru punched Choji and I stifled a laugh, most of the tension was dissipating finally.

"Ahh, I was just coming to say hi." I cursed my awkwardness. How can I talk so big to Orochi-freaking-maru but when I come face to face with Ino, not pissed off, I act like a timid, awkward little girl. I gave Shika and Choji hugs and turned to leave, but something grabbed my wrist. I thought it was Shika but the hand was well manicured and had slender fingers. I looked up to see Ino's blue eyes staring into mine, sadness and determination were all I could make out. The shyness she had earlier was totally gone and back was the confident blonde. Without waiting for my response, she dragged me behind her, pulling us into the girls bathroom. She stomped her foot and ordered everyone out of the bathroom, they all obediently listened, not wanting to upset the privileged Yamanaka heiress. I stood awkwardly looking at the floor, I don't know what she wants but I don't know if I can handle any more of her mind games. She's a mind specialist, not only is she a girl, she can manipulate and know someones thoughts faster than anyone else. She knows exactly what to say to get the reaction she wants. I've never been weak willed, but somehow they make me feel so weak, worthless, a failure in just minutes. All I wanted was to have girl friends, to experience girl talk but we don't have that, instead it's malice between us. the only time I can seem to stand up to them is when they badmouth Naruto or someone else I love.

"Hinata." Ino spoke, her voice was firm but had a slight quiver. It did not hold the normal hiss. Her hand went from my wrist to my shoulder and I looked up to watch her. Her face was blank, attempting to hold back a flurry of emotions. It was dead silent as we awkwardly stared at each other, I was trying not to move my gaze around since her's was locked on mine. I shifted the weight between my feet, slightly rocking back and forth when Ino finally opened her mouth again. "I- you." She took a deep breath. "You were right." I almost choked right then and there. My eyes went comically wide and my mouth fell open. Ino NEVER admits someone else is right, the question is about what.

"A-About what exactly?"

"Everything." I looked at her with an arched brow silently asking her to elaborate. She got the message and continued. "Naruto. Choji finally told me some of Naruto's story. I was wrong, he's not a monster, he was just trying to protect everyone. And from what I've seen, he may be strong but he's still a loud goofy idiot." My heart was beating faster and I let out a quiet giggle. I was happy, I still don't know why she's telling me this, but to know that she doesn't see Naruto as a monster. "And you were right about us not giving up our friendship over Sasuke-kun. I see how weak I am compared to all of you, I spent so much time trying to break you and to earn affections from a hot boy who will never love me. It was during the exams, when I saw you beaten so badly that I realized how miserable I was. How much I missed you, my dorky, tomboy, freakishly strong, weird, smart, beautiful best friend." Tears were falling from both of our eyes and Ino pulled me into a hug. "Please forgive me. I need you back, I don't want to be mean anymore." I was hesitant, I wanted so badly to push her away, to beat her up for all the hurt she caused me, but I couldn't. She seemed so sincere, she could be faking but at this moment I didn't care. She was Ino, she realized how stupid her infatuation with Sasuke was, she apologized. It is naive and stupid, but I wrapped my arms around her and we sat giggling and crying like freaks. After a bit, I wiped my tears, Ino fixed her makeup and we walked out of the bathroom like we weren't mortal enemies a few hours earlier.

"Thank Kami, I don't know how much more of Shikamaru I could handle alone." I laughed loudly and agreed, the person who hates trouble is so troublesome. (A/N this scene was hard to write because I'm emotionally awkward and don't hang out with enough girls to know how this works.)

Shikamaru looked between us, then slumped over, not wanting to know what was going on. He knew we'd tell him later. Choji on the other hand was beaming with happiness that Ino and I finally made up. After lunch, Ino kicked the boys to the curb and she decided it was long overdue for us to catch up and have a girls day. We first went shopping and after much begging and pleading, I gave in and bought some non-ninja clothes. It was nothing too fancy, I got a short black and red dress that was like a giant t-shirt but cinched at my waistline. I also got a new blue floral short kimono since none of mine fit anymore and there is a festival coming up soon that I said I'd wear it to. The clan elders would be so happy to see me in something that wasn't my ninja clothes or pants, they always tell my dad that I have earned my title through my skills, but I need to still work on my visual image as a princess since the elders love to tell me how I'm too pretty to dress so lame. If I was the son of the clan, they would not care as much, as long as I look presentable but as a female, I not only have to be physically strong, they want me to look the part of a princess.

Second, we went to the bath houses to clean up. The water was warm and felt so nice on my tense muscles. In there, Ino told me about how much harder she has been pushing herself in training. She has successfully learned her clan mind techniques and is going to be starting an apprenticeship under her dad and Ibiki in the TI department, she knows her mind manipulation skills will be honed and put to good use. It's going to be intense, but she is tough as nails and will thrive with that training. Together if we went on an information gathering mission, we'd be so good. With my training under Lady Seiko on the art of using womanly charms to get information, Ino's amazing mind manipulation skills, plus good old fashioned infiltration, we'd be an unstoppable Kunoichi team. Pretty but deadly. We chatted about Sakura and her's relationship issues, Sakura is still not willing to get over the issue of Sasuke and still dislikes me. I just hope some sense gets knocked into her pink head so she can flourish and become a non-annoying person and flourish as a genjutsu master Kunoichi. Apparently, Ino got over Sasuke because she realized she only liked him for his looks and something she wont tell me about changed her mind on who is the person for her. I know she likes someone by the blushes when she talks about getting over Sasuke, but she won't say who.

After bathing at the hot springs, I allowed her, against my better judgement, to cut my hair. My hair was long and past my butt so she cut it into layers that fell at my hips and gave me side sweeping bangs. It was beautiful, made my hair a but lighter, and it looked so freaking awesome. I usually forget what it's like to hang out with girls, other than Tenten who likes to train with me, and it was a nice change to relax for once and just be a girl. I slept over at Ino's and couldn't stop the big grin from covering my face as I fell asleep.

Ino woke me up with water to my face. I should have been pissed, I really should have, but I was too giddy. I finally get to meet THE Jiraiya, super pervert ninja extraordinaire. I haven't met him, but he is one of the coolest people ever. He is a perfect example of an Idiot who looks weak but is so crazy badass. Plus he trained some of the greatest ninjas to ever live, and he know's Tsunade, another person I cant wait to meet and I am going to make her train me. Loudmouth and Hothead, we will be awesome. I put on a fishnet shirt and threw on a red cropped top over it. I put on my black joggers and sandals. Ino did my hair for me, making it look effortlessly wavy with her magic. She headed off to the TI area and I hauled ass over to Ichiraku's. Of course, Naruto was already inside slurping down his ramen while waving his hands around dramatically telling a story to the person beside him. I'm pretty sure my eyes were sparkling, there sat Jiraiya in all of his glory, grinning at Naruto's story while not so subtly checking out the women in the shop. His hair was long and withe, tied off in a low ponytail. Up close, he looked really buff for a man in his 50's and the red lines on his face were super awesome looking.

I ran inside Ichiraku's, gaining the attention of everyone in the place. Ayame realized it was me and went to work on my miso ramen, my ramen of choice. Naruto's blue eyes widened in happiness and he smiled brighter than the sun itself. Jiraiya watched his apprentices actions and chortled whole heartedly.

"Hina-chan you finally showed up. Your hair is different dattebayo! Now you can finally meet my new super strong but really weird teacher Pevy Sage. Pervy Sage, this is Hina-chan, don't you even think about perving on her old man." Naruto spoke rushed, his excitement flowing through every word. I laughed out loud at the disgruntled expression Jiraiya was throwing Naruto for his less than amazing introduction of him.

"You brat, I told you not to call me that in front of people." They were so energetic. I ran up to Jiraiya and bowed before looking up at him with awed, sparkling eyes.

"Oh My Kami, I finally get to meet one of the Legendary Sanin, the toad Sage Jiraiya. Aghhh I'm such a huge fan! Naru has told me so much, I have so many questions. Like, what was your favorite Icha Icha book to write? What was it like training the 4th Hokage? This is sooooo cool." Naruto and Jiraiya both looked at me in pure shock, Naruto had a mix of horror too. A loud booming laugh echoed throughout the shop and a large hand was placed on my head, ruffling my hair. Jiraiya had a large grin on his face and he gave Naruto a look of victory.

"I like you kid, you know when a legend is in your presence and you're the first Hyuuga clan member I've met that doesn't have a stick lodged up their ass. I have to say, for all the rumors about your skills, you look more like a princess than a fighter, you're sure to be a looker when your older. I like all my Icha Icha, but the first one is my favorite. The research for that one was particularly invigorating. Hohoho. Training the 4th was rewarding. Naruto, you've got a good girl here, you better not mess it up." He answered all my questions, boasting about himself, yet somehow staying humble by not mentioning his actual skills. A misdirection that is useful as a ninja, especially one that has so many ties in the underground. For such a pervert and clumsy dude, Jiraiya is scarily smart and good at controlling a situation while making you think nothing of it. He uses his boisterous ways to his advantage in a way that I've never seen. He truly is a legend, and not just because he is a huge pervert. Each jab he made at Naruto, I could see the hidden fondness behind it. And with Naruto's loud insults back, it was pretty obvious he was enjoying his time with Jiraiya, feeling that sense of parental guidance he never has had before.

After a subtle shift executed by Jiraiya, we began talking about training. He first asked me about why and how I decided to train with Naruto when we were younger, and why I thought it was a good idea to let him figure out sealing. I responded with how I read about the Uzumaki being a clan known for seals and thought Naruto would be naturally adept at it because of his lineage. I don't think Jiraiya was all too suspicious of me, but he was interrogating me in such a discreet and friendly way, if I wasn't prepared, I would have never figured it out. I discreetly slipped in subtle messages about things I knew, but they were only for my amusement, I don't think he could figure out what I really meant by them. It really was a fun battle of wits and wagers between us, a friendly battle only I knew I was in. I also told him a bit about my skills, which Naruto seemed to amp up every time I glossed over them. Jiraiya told me I was a prodigy, not hiding his nervousness for that since the prodigies he knew were all super fucked up. I said the only reason I am seen as so is because I trained hard which seemed to gain some respect in his eyes. When I talked about my water ninjutsu and akin to Tsunade strength, he was impressed, saying that the spreading rumors of me (and my team overall for being so freaking OP at 12/13 like Itachi and Kakashi were) had an air of truth. I also think he must have heard something about maybe the accident with Orochimaru and his and Kabuto's newfound interest in me. That was what he was trying to figure out, and I now know for sure something is up regarding me and the snake. I still am in the dark to know what which scares the living shit out of me.

I asked if I'd ever get to meet Tsunade and he said it is a high possibility right now, I fist pumped in delight. It was a fun meal, I liked Jiraiya and he found my perverted jokes funny and I didn't get slapped in the head like I would if it were Neji or anyone else. He really is soo cool and I basically fangirled over him even though I wanted to seem cool. Jiraiya told me that he and Naruto would be leaving and so Jiraiya left Naruto and I to say our goodbye's. Naruto grabbed my hand and we walked to the front gate together, laughing the whole way there as he told me some of his plans to beat Sasuke. Naruto pulled me into a tight hug and blushed brightly. I hugged him back, my head in his neck.

"Good luck on finding Tsunade! Though, I'll come find you and castrate you if you don't come back home safe." Naruto shuddered and let out a weak laugh at the sickly sweet whisper I gave him knowing my threat was all too real.

"Yatta! I promise I'll come back and I'll be even stronger dattebayo!" He grinned and put his fist out as a promise. "I'll be Hokage in no time dattebayo!" He yelled, making my worries float away. I want to go with him, but I know I can't. I have to be here to talk with Itachi and shark boy, I have no idea what I should say, but the best method of life is to roll with the punches and thats what I'm going to do. How I'm going to try to therapy jutsu a group of criminals without becoming one I don't know but I sure as hell am going to try. I pulled Naruto into one more bone crushing hug and before I could let go, he held on to me tighter. We stayed like that for a minute, this is his first time really leaving without me and vice versa so it is pretty hard to say bye, for a month-sh amount of time, to my best friend whose been there forever. I had him let go and pushed myself up a bit and gave him a soft and quick kiss on the cheek. His whole face turned pink and he had a dazed and goofy smile spreading across his whiskered face.

Jiraiya showed up and gave Naruto a not-so-subtle wink and they left. I watched his back until I couldn't see him anymore. I know he will be fine, but I'm still worried I mean his heart stopped last time and maybe this time it wont start back up. Also, with Kabuto losing a leg, I don't know how that will effect everything. I snapped out of my stupor when there was a loud bang that echoed off in the distance. My head snapped to the direction the sound originated and there was a plume of smoke billowing in the air. What. The. Hell. I took off at top speed, jumping through the trees to find out what is going on. The village cannot handle another attack and this amount of attention does not fit with Itachi's style, Naruto is gone so it's not one of his seal tests so who or what the hell is causing this. I came to a stop hanging from a tree and when I saw what was happening, I fell out of the tree.

Panda-kun,

I'm doing just dandy, I kind of freaked out after killing them, but Kakashi-sensei helped me see the situation in full. Please never apologize for being alive, I would have saved you over and over and the only reason I was able to was because you saved me first. I care for you because you deserve it, and like I said when we met the first time, I will always be there to show you what friendship and love is. I want to come visit you so bad, it would be so cool to see Suna especially now that you are going to be Kazekage. I mean, nobody would better suit the job than you would. I expect you to take me to all of your favorite spots so I can learn more about you. I totally knew you and Naruto would become friends and start your Jinchuriki bromance, hopefully we can come and see you, it will have to wait until Naruto gets back to the village though. Tell your siblings I say hi and no hard feelings. Well, unless Kankuro decides to be a jerk again, then I'll punch him. But otherwise, tell them Hi and i'd like to meet them on good terms sometime.

Love,

Hinata