Before I left Naruto's flat, we planned on meeting up at 1 to go visit Gaara together and though I wanted to stay and hang out with him for hours, I had so many other people to say hello to and knowing them, I'd be beat up if I came home and didn't let them know right away. That gives me an hour and a half to find the Ino-Shika-Cho trio. I was strolling through the village actively doing my best to sense around for one of their chakra signatures without having to activate my Byakugan. Thankfully I was no longer dressed in bloody garbs and I was chilling in shorts with a gray jacket covering my torso. It was busy in the village, there were more people than I remembered being around in the town center but I guess this would be the reason for the economic boom. I got a lock on the slow flowing chakra of Shikamaru, Ino and Choji were with him as well. They were inside the Yakiniku Q, I wouldn't expect anything less. I opened the door to the shop and was greeted instantly by a new waitress.
"Hello welcome to Yakiniku Q, how may I help you?"
"Oh actually, my friends already have a table, I'm here to surprise them." I guestured back to Ino's table and the woman gave me a polite smile and a small bow.
"Of course miss, go right ahead."
"Thanks!" I nodded my head back and slowly made my way over, hoping to not be seen. Ino and Choji were sitting very close on one side of the booth and Shikamaru was alone on the other, his back was facing towards me. Ino's unbelievably blue eyes met mine and she jumped but I put my finger over my lips shushing her. She grinned mischievously and whispered to Choji who also had a happy smile on his face as I waved to him.
"Geez what's got you so weird now you troublesome woman?" Shikamaru's voice was deeper but it was smooth and still had that lazy drawl I was ever familiar with. In one swift movement I moved to be sitting right next to Shikamaru, looking into his surprised chocolatey eyes with a smile.
"Oh you know, she's just excited that I'm here to save your lazy ass from third wheeling." Shikamaru's lips curled into a smirk and he rested his arm on the chair behind me. He looked older as well, his face was chiseled in a more rugged yet sexy way and his skin was even more tanned and healthy looking. His charcoal black hair was slightly longer but still stuck up in his trademark ponytail. There was a small scar that ran horizontally through the left side of his top and bottom lip and his body was more muscled than when we were pre-teens. "Hi Ino, Choji! It's good to see you both so happy."
"Hi Hinata-chan!" Choji gave me a smile as he dutifully cooked the food for the table. "I'm glad to see you are safe, you had all of us worried after we got those letters." I smiled sheepishly.
"Sorry to worry you Choji. You look healthy! How's Hide?" Hide is 9 now and I haven't visited him at the orphanage since I left. I know he was entering the academy when I left so I hope he was accepted into the program despite having no family to care for him. (Hide was the baby at the orphanage Choji and her went to in part 1)
"He's good. He is top of his class right now." Choji beamed and I felt so proud of the sweet boy, he was such a cutie I'll have to go say hi and bring him some cake soon.
"I knew the little shit could do it."
"Hey Hinata!" Ino greeted and I grinned stupidly at her, so glad to see her once again. Ino winked her eyes flickering between Shika and I…and I blatantly ignored her.
"And just when my life was beginning to be calm. What a drag." Shikamaru smiled down at me and I grinned back. Ino and Choji were just watching fully entertained.
"And I was hoping more for a 'wow Hinata you're home I'm so happy I could cry or something of the sort.'" Shika snorted in indignation and Ino and Choji both laughed amusedly. I batted my eyelashes cheekily and slumped into his side, the smell of the food reminding me that Naruto took half of my lunch.
"Yeah yeah, I'm glad you're home safe. You look…" His calculating eyes gave me a once over and even though it was quick I know he got down every detail to the smallest differences. He most definitely noticed the bandages peaking out of my jacket "…good." I beamed at him and he shoved my face, chuckling.
"You look good too, not staying inside playing Shogi has done wonders." I got a look at his clothing and almost lost it. "Wholly shit! You became a JONIN! I thought it was too much of a drag." He put a hand on his neck and rubbed it bashfully, pushing his bottom lip out in the smallest of pouts. Shika let out a sigh like even having to explain it would drain him of his energy.
"As nosey as ever woman. I told you I would catch up. Besides, Asuma-sensei pushed me into it."
"Ok ok, as fun as you two flirting is…move your ass Shikamaru." Ino quite literally shoved Shikamaru out of his seat and then sat on my lap even though she is still annoyingly taller than me and pulled me into a crushing hug as she giggled in happiness. Her smile was contagious and I returned it right back, laughing along with her. Her eyes were glistened with tears and her long white-blonde hair was brushing against my arm. Ino was a bombshell: a tall sexy blonde with the personality to match.
"Ino I can't thank you enough for taking care of Hanabi-hime while I was gone. You are the greatest friend I could ask for, she was practically glowing when talking about you." I squeezed her tighter, I was so grateful for everything she did. She got to take care of Hanabi while I wasn't there, she was helping me while I was being a shitty sister. I couldn't thank her enough for helping Hanabi with the things I couldn't even if I was here.
"It's nothing. I told you I would, besides you're my sister which means Hanabi-chan is my little sister as well. What kind of big sister would I be if I left her to Neji-san's care." Ino smiled kindly and I squeezed her tighter. She would have loved to meet Konan. "Ok enough with this sappy crap…Look at you Hinata! You're such a hottie! Look at your rack they're huge. Oh my god!" Ino poked her finger into by breast and my face flushed pink. My boobs were very much out there, not Tsunade but they are large and in charge. I don't dislike them, they actually make my figure look pretty damn fine but having somebody point out something I don't try to emphasize is embarrassing as hell. Puberty hit fast and they just grew and kept growing.
"Ok but look at you, you freaking beautiful giant!" Ino smiled and flipped her hair over her shoulder. "I missed you so much, I've been drowning in testosterone." Ino laughed, wiggling her eyebrows suggestively.
"Oh I know, my dad told me all about the band of guys you brought home." She leaned down and did the worst version of a whisper known to man, Ino is anything but secretive. "So on a scale of 1 to 10, how hot are they."
"Ino-chan!" Choji whined out to his girlfriend and she gave him a sheepish but unashamed smile.
"Sorry honey, none of them have anything on you but I need to know who our little Hinata has been spending her time with."
"Honestly… everyone is at least a 9." Shikamaru narrowed his eyes at me in distaste, criminals and Ino only cared about how hot they were. And what was worse was i found them all to be extremely attractive like the rest of the female population…not like the same couldn't be said for the shadow user himself. "You can meet them all later in the week if you don't have a mission."
"Nope I work at the hospital for the rest of the week so I meet them all for lunch! Choji-kun Shikamaru-kun, you both are coming as well." She left no room for nonsense and back talk, Ino had these boys on a leash and it was always amusing on how they behaved with her commanding presence. Adding that to the fact that now being an intern with her father and Ibiki, she was more manipulative and deadly than ever.
"We know." They both chorused with different levels of enthusiasm. Ino gave you one last sisterly hug and moved to sit back with Choji, resting back against him, intertwining her slender fingers with his, getting the most genuine and loving smile from the boy. Who would have known the shallow and selfish Ino would end up being such a kind (kind of scary) and talented Kunoichi.
"Foods ready!" Choji kindly made Ino her plate first, putting a good serving of all of her favorites and then piled high on the grilled meats and vegetables himself. Shikamaru had to fend for himself to get a plate full of food. I chatted with Ino about all the interesting gossip I had missed being gone. I didn't order any food for myself because I was officially broke until I get more money from a job or the elders. Three years later and Shikamaru could still read me like a book and when Ino was telling me about making time to sleepover at her house when a piece of grilled pork belly was being lazily waved in front of my face by none other than the lazy genius. I quirked an eyebrow at him and he huffed.
"I know you're hungry so just eat the food woman." The Nara drawled out, waiting for me to take the food. It was sweet but I felt bad, I didn't come to steal his food, I just wanted to hang out.
"But it's yours, I'm fine Shika." I smiled genuinely touched at the notion. His pouty form was amusing, for an asshole Shika really is a gentleman. It comes from his weird 'manly' complex but oh well.
"Don't be troublesome, I can't just sit here and eat if you're hungry. Ma would have my head." Oh man I haven't seen Mama Yoshino in forever, I have to stop by and say hello soon, to Shikaku as well. They are always kind to me and Yoshino never ceases to amuse me. He's right though, if he was even being the slightest bit 'impolite' he would get the tongue lashing of his life. Man I'd never been more scared than when we got caught sneaking out of class by Yoshino and she whipped me with just her words.
"Fine, thank you. I am kind of hungry." I opened my mouth and Shika guided the chopsticks in so I could take the food for my own nourishment. Being with my friends was amazing and getting fed was just a plus of that moment.
"You're always hungry." He said pointedly, Choji and Ino nodding in agreement. His dark eyes flashed in amusement and though it was improper to speak with food in my mouth, who the hell cares. I pouted in false annoyance, my brows furrowing into a scowl.
"Fuck off." I muttered with the delicious and slightly spicy meat in my mouth. Shikamaru snorted in amusement knowing he was right. He's not wrong though, food might be the greatest thing ever and I always find myself hungry. The lazy genius grumbled but still continued to feed me in between taking bites for himself and I suddenly understood why kings had their servants feed them; it's such a power trip. We were all disappointed when it was time for me to leave but I had places to go and panda Iinchuriki to be seen. I hugged Ino tightly, was engulfed in a bear hug by Choji, and Shikamaru gave me a side hug and a kiss to my temple.
I got to the training grounds and Naruto was sitting swinging his legs atop the stump. When he saw me his face lit up and a cheeky grin stretched across his lips. I returned it tenfold and he bounded over to me, picking me up and swinging me around.
"Hina-chan! Ready to go see Gaara-kun?"
"Hell yeah." Naruto wasted no time in putting me on his back and taking off quickly. I wrapped my legs tightly around his waist and held my hands out, enjoying the wind whipping around me. Laughter burst from Naruto and it made it bubble out of my chest as well.
"Have you talked to the teme yet? I've only seen him once since I came home! That bastard Danzo basically took over his whole life 'ttebayo." I knew the foundation basically took over a persons life and created 'emotionless super soldiers' but Naruto having been home for months and only got to see Sasuke once was crazy. Naruto had Jiraiya, Kakashi had Gai, and I had the Akatsuki but Sasuke, Sasuke has been alone and isolated from everyone. I can't wait to get him the hell out of there.
"I saw him this morning. I can't believe he's been so isolated like that. Dammit, we've got to do something soon." What kind of idiots are we, sending Sasuke in with Danzo thinking it would be any better on his psyche than him going with Orochimaru. As soon as Itachi's surgery is over, we're taking out that bastard completely. Shisui will get his eye back, the clan will be avenged, and Danzo will have his head on a steak.
"I know, don't worry Hina-chan, I'll save Sasuke-teme from that bastard and we'll take him down together." Naruto's hands tightened on my thighs and his voice was blazing with determination. The desire to help Sasuke and avenge his best friends family was rolling off of him in waves, Naruto really is too good of a person. My heightened stress of the situation was quelled just by the unwavering smile he directed towards me. Naruto skidded to a stop and let me climb off his back. I was rocking back and forth in excitement as Naruto pounded on the door relentlessly. It opened and all I needed to see was the deep blood red of his hair before I sprung forward and wrapped my arms and legs around him.
"Panda-kun!" His sand didn't react and Gaara was as stiff as a board until he looked down and took a slight inhale, seeing my navy hair and recognizing my scent, his body relaxed just slightly and his arms loosely made their way around me. Dammit, Gaara was my height last time we hung out and now it's not even fair. Why do boys get to be so tall!
"Hinata-chan." He breathed out my name in disbelief, his gorgeous sea-foam eyes were looking into mine and he had the softest, barely there smile on his lips. "You're here." His voice was deeper and still had its raspy tone, it was not aggressive and he still spoke slightly toneless. His hair had grown out slightly and was still a mess. His face was cut and he had a bad boy mixed with sweet panda look about him. He smelled of a musky metallic sand and there was just the faintest aroma of sweet cacti flowers.
"And you're alive." I did something, he was alive and Shukaku was safe within his host. Deidara didn't have his arms crushed and I felt choked up about it.
"That is thanks to you." Gaara set me down but didn't remove me from hugging him. He looked behind me and gave Naruto a smile and nod as well. "Hello Naruto-kun. Thank you for coming to visit." I could listen to Gaara talk all day, his voice is so gruff yet soothing. And his body is so warm, when he isn't covered in sand armor his skin is so soft I can't handle it. I pressed my head into his chest and felt his chest rumble as he spoke.c
"How many times has he dragged you to Ichiraku since you came here?" I snickered at the thought knowing that there in no way Gaara hasn't been forced to eat ramen at least twice a week. Gaara looked pensive for a moment before answering matter-of-factly.
"Almost every day, I believe it to be the only food he consumes." I snickered at the accuracy of that statement and then put my hand on Gaara's head, patting his head softly in fake condolences. He leaned into the touch like a kitten.
"Why would I eat anything else 'ttebayo, Ramen is the food of Gods?"
"Do you ever stop thinking about ramen?" Gaara deadpanned, fully sarcastic with his questioning. Naruto just grinned and shrugged.
"Sometimes 'ttebayo."
"Hinata-chan, when did you return?"
"Just this morning. How is the village treating you, any asses I gotta kick?" I got a smile from Gaara at my threat, I wouldn't truly go and hurt anybody but I'm hoping the villagers that have gotten to see him are being amicable and welcoming.
"They are slightly wary but nobody has been unkind. I am very pleased that you are safe. I was worried for your safety when you risked your life for mine. I appreciate it but do not do that for me. If I die to save my friends or my village I have done my job as Kazekage." His eyes seemed to burn with a certain flair, one of a man who loves his people and will die for them. It's something I struggle to understand, his villagers the one he has sworn to protect were so evil to him. He should hate them and yet he cares such a deep love and desire to protect them. It's the same with Naruto.
"You really are honorable. And you seem much more confident in who you are compared to when I last visited Suna."
"Yes well I have had a lot of help." Gaara's pale skin flushed a soft pink at his confession, embarrassed to admit he needed help. He moved out of the doorway and gestured in his temporary residence. "Would you both like to come in?"
"Sorry, I gotta go back and wait for Kakashi-sensei 'ttebayo. He's helping me with my super awesome new jutsu." Naruto still won't spill on what it is, but I guess we are all going to find out soon. "See ya later Gaara-kun, Hina-chan." Naruto turned around and sprinted away. Gaara and I entered his apartment and it smelled of the understated nectar of succulents. On his table there were stacks of paperwork he had sent over to complete for the village, even in hiding he was a dutiful Hokage. There were many of the potted cacti resting around the room, each one was different sized and a few had pink and red flowers growing out of the shaft. Each looked perfectly healthy and tended to. Like Naruto, Gaara carefully tended to plants and found solace in the care of such delicate organisms, granted Cacti are easier to care for than some of Naruto's flowers but the premise is the same. I walked over to one of the most beautiful spiny plants and gently ran my finger over the soft pink petals of the flowers.
"What is this? It's beautiful." Gaara came up behind me and softly stroked the spines, careful not to prick a finger.
"This is a Hatiora gaertneri. It's flowers bloom in late winter and early spring. They are harder to care for in Suna but the temperament of Konoha's weather makes them ideal to grow here. They are very beautiful, the lavender ones are my favorite. They remind me of you, soft on the eyes yet dangerous to the touch."
"Thanks? Although I think that description fits you better." I moved to another one and marveled down at it. It was odd, I'd never seen a plant like it. "What is this one called?"
"This one is the Kalanchoe tomentosa." He smiled softly at the plant. "It is also called the Panda Plant because of the soft fuzz coating on the leaves. I have only successfully gotten it to flower once." I ran my fingers over the fuzzy leaves, they were soft to the touch but the leaves were so thick it would take more effort to break them than a regular plant. Gaara showed me each of his plants and the proper way to take care of them, it was the most I have ever heard him talk in one single setting. We moved out to sit on the balcony, the warming spring air blowing against our skin. I rested my back against Gaara's side as we looked out over the village.
"I love having you here Gaara but I can see that longing in your eyes. The threat is significantly lower. I think-I hope it is safe enough for you to return home. But only if you have somebody with you 24/7."
"I would like to return home. My village, my people, my students they all need me. The other Jinchuriki you notified, none of them want to return home but I have to."
"I know. Before you leave, I have somebody for you to meet. His name is Sasori no Akasuna." Gaara stiffened at the name, he like others from Suna know the name of the infamous scorpion. "His grandmother, Lady Chiyo, I want him to see her again. He doesn't understand the point to living and I want to show him. You are the Kazekage so it is your decision if you will allow the rogue back to your village so I want you to meet him. Plus, he's kind of an asshole but I feel like you two just might get along."
"I will meet with him; however, if he seems a threat I will not allow him to enter the village. I will not put that risk for the citizens of Sunagakure." I agreed to it, hoping Sasori wouldn't piss off Gaara. I'm already counting on him and Kakashi not getting along in the slightest due to history and Kakashi's incessant tardiness but I hope he can at least not piss off Gaara enough to go visit his home and his grandmother. He was willing to die instead of kill her the first time around so there has to be some love for her left in his heart. My eyes were getting heavier the longer we sat there. I have been awake for over a day at this point and it was taking its toll. Gaara noticed my exhaustion.
"You can rest if you would like. I will wake you up when you have to leave."
"Mhmm..I'm..not tired." I slightly slurred over my words, leaning more into his warmth and firm body.
"Yes, you are." He was amused at my feeble attempt to stay awake but he used his Kazekage voice to make me submit to my sleeping desires.
"Ok…please wake me up…in 30…minut…" I fell asleep taking and my head fell onto his shoulder for a quick pick me up nap.
A/N: This pic is so freaking funny... also my entire state had a snow day today so that's nice...except I hate snow so it kinda sucks too.
Gaara shook me awake from my little power nap and though I was still exhausted, I no longer felt like I would fall over if somebody blew on me. I said my goodbyes and Gaara promised to meet with Sasori sometime before Kankuro, Temari, and Baki come to escort him back to Suna. I leisurely made my way to training ground 7 where Naruto was supposed to be meeting with Kakashi. I was more nervous to meet up with Kakashi than anybody else, when we left he was against the idea of me leaving so there is no way he is pleased with me coming home with more than Itachi. Kakashi seems lax most of the time but he is also very strict and no-nonsense, he doesn't tolerate criminals so Zabuza was a miracle in itself but with everyone else, that is going to be tense and Kakashi might want to punch me in the face. I mean, there is no way in hell he doesn't know I brought some of the Akatsuki members home with me.
The closer I got to the training grounds the more my heart was beating erratic. I wrung my hands together, freaking out mildly. I trust Kakashi to not hate me, but getting scolded by someone who is like my idol just sounds awful. He is passive aggressive and extremely intimidating when he wants to be. I was less than a kilometer away from the training grounds and I could feel the white calm fury of Kakashi's electric chakra invading my senses. Man, it's been a while, something about his chakra was always so comforting, it made me feel safe and protected in a way nobody else's did. I made my way off the trail and up into the trees to make a grand entrance, not that I would be surprised if Kakashi had smelled my presence already. I stuffed my hands in my pocket and traveled forward until I was right above the edge of the grounds, Kakashi was sitting idly against the base of a tree reading his book but by the taught muscles in his back, he was ready for anything like usual. His hair was as silvery and spiky as always and damn, he was still a babe among babes. Not too far away Naruto was sitting meditating with Iruka-sensei. He looked happy as well, Iruka was always kind and like a big brother who always kept us on the right track.
I smiled, inhaled deeply, rolled my shoulder painfully against the stitching and dropped to the ground right in front of Kakashi. His slate gray eye flicked up from the book and he closed it, folding the page. His visible eye curved up into a crescent and I knew he was smiling. He easily pushed up to be standing tall and before I could hug him, he placed a hand on my head, ruffling my hair and holding me in place.
"Maa Maa, if it isn't my cute little rogue student." His grip on my head tightened and his smile was less kind and more like when he was ready to put Naruto, Sasuke, and I through hellish training. "I was wondering when you'd get back…There are some interesting rumors going around that you brought back a bunch of criminals wanting to kill your best friend home with you… but my intelligent little student would never be so idiotic… right?" There was a knowing glint in his eye and he spoke so passive and disbelieving but it was all completely sarcastic. I chuckled nervously, biting down on my lip sheepishly. Well, fuck me sideways.
"Eh haha about that…we all know I am stupid enough to do that." I cheesed at him and the tenseness was gone, replaced with a deep sigh of utter exhaustion. His hand slipped from my head and he ran his fingers through his silky silver locks.
"What am I going to do with you?" Kakashi was wholeheartedly wondering how he got stuck with the most troublesome team ever to exist and he couldn't help but feel like it was a punishment as much as it was a gift.
"Love me? " It came out as a question and I couldn't stop smiling. He rolled his eye and huffed out a laugh "and meet everyone before making any decisions…please?" I bat my eyes at him, trying to make them more puppy-dog like. When he pursed his lips, I knew I had him hook line and sinker. The puppy dog no jutsu was a specialty curtsey of Naruto Uzumaki himself.
"Fine fine, but just so you know, I will kill them without mercy if they so much as flinch wrong." His deceiving smile and borderline chipper tone was the opposite of his words but it didn't matter, they were all going to become buddies if I had to shove camaraderie down their throats. "Other than that, welcome back. You look a bit more grown, I feel old."
"I mean with that hair, you already look old." I snarked back and he just waved it off, letting nothing faze him as usual.
"Oh is that right?" He pat my head and finally let me hug him…well until he picked me up by my jacket and pulled me off of him, opening his book up and sliding back down the tree. I slid down beside him and he tilted the book to be just out of my view. "Do you need something?" Kakashi is sometimes the best conversationalist and other times he is the worst. I clasped my hands together and he raised a brow.
"Please summon your ninken! I promised them all treats when I got back." I pulled the bag of different sized treats from the small sealing scroll I was carrying around. He eyed them and once more rolled his eye.
"You spoil them too much." They are so cute and precious, they deserve all the love and treats I can carry. Especially Bull, he is like my giant pillow and whenever I was sad Kakashi would send bull to my house to cuddle with me. It's not just them though, I have a habit of summoning my lions and buying them whatever they ask me for. Muramasa has no problem taking advantage of that and gets me to let him have things I should probably not give him.
"Says the one who feeds them better food than what he feeds himself." The amount of times Hanabi has made me dinners to bring to my team and I've seen Kakashi give it to his dogs for no other reason than them 'needing nutrients' is unbelievable. They are like his little children that he spoils rotten.
"I don't give them treats every time I see them." Kakashi shot back smoothly, sounding slightly dismissive and slightly defensive about being seen as an actual caring person.
"I'm trying to buy their love so they leave you for me." It wasn't necessarily a lie but his dogs are completely loyal to Kakashi and it's adorable. But I really want them to finally accept me as their mother or cool aunt or something, though most if not all of them are older than me. He smirked beneath his mask, amused by my doting on his precious little pups.
"Unlikely."
"But not impossible." I grinned as Kakashi pricked his finger with a Kunai and slammed it into the ground, a small plume of smoke covered the area and when it dissipated I let out a squeal. Bull and his giant body bounded over to me and gave me a wet slobbery kiss up the side of my face before settling himself in my lap. He was damn heavy. I scratched behind his ear and he let out a pleased whine.
"Welcome back little pup." Pakkun's deep voice carried in the clearing and I grinned, exploding with happiness at all the canines around me.
"Come to me my perfect little children, I brought treats!" All of the dogs bound over to me, welcoming me home. Guruko, Ūhei, Akino, Bisuke, Shiba, Urushi, Bull, and Pakkun each got a treat specialized to their size and what I remembered them saying their favorite flavors were. Bull, my sweet baby had such a sweet tooth and I gave him a giant homemade molasses dog biscuit that I spent days making with Deidara. Everyone had their own homemade treats and gobbled them up happily, giving me endless kisses afterward. Pakkun even rolled over and let me touch the pads of his paws in gratitude. When they all piled on top of me I was lost in a fit of giggles. Kakashi's eyes flickered from the words of his book to watching me interact with his puppies; his eyes took on a soft look the more my happiness filled the air. He let out a relieved breath, even if I changed in the Akatsuki, I was still me, I was still one of his precious people.
I let out the softest sigh and another giggle pushed past my lips. This, this was exactly what I needed to de-stress and forget about the impending disaster that might happen tomorrow. My mind needed to be clear and I just needed to have a breath of fresh air and Kakashi provided that for my brief escape from the real world. I smelled slightly of dog but it was welcomed and I felt like I was floating on a cloud of dogs with all the soft fur sitting on and around me.
Finally, I sat myself back up, still petting Bull in my lap and Ūhei who took over my left hand.
"Hey Kakashi-sensei?"
"Hm?" His eyes briefly met mine before going back to roaming over the smutty book.
"I know you helped 'Tachi with his growth in the ANBU and well, he is really sick." That got his full attention. "I'm doing a surgery on him tomorrow and there is a slim chance he will make it. He's staying at Shisui's old house right now so before everything happens, I know he'd be happy to see you." This was the first time I had fully acknowledged that the surgery might fail and I want him to see everyone at least one more time. My eyes stung and Bull licked my cheek again to get me to feel better. I was terrified of tomorrow.
"Maa Maa, I don't need to do that." My eyes shot open in surprise and shock, was he crazy. I know Kaksahi doesn't like loss and he has experienced so much in his life but to not say goodbye or good luck just in case.
"Wha-wait why?" He sensed my plight and got satisfaction, Kakashi loved to troll people more than anything else in the world. He put on a smile, one that was comforting and full of faith in me. Bull got off my lap at a nod from his master. He placed his hands on my shoulders and stared me directly in my eyes.
"Because I have faith that he'll survive if he's in your hands." I wrapped my arms around his abdomen and tucked my head into his flack jacket. His chest rumbled with mirth and then we were tackled by his ninken and smooshed into nuzzles and kisses from them all. I was still tense with the pressure of failure but the support radiating from Kakashi and his words, the words of my sensei believing in me lightened that feeling even if just barely.
"That's enough guys, let us up." The weight of the dogs got off my back and Kakashi sat us both up and I let go of him. I stood up and dusted off the dog hair, crunched leaves, and dirt from my clothing.
"Well, thanks for that Kashi-sensei. I'll see you later, I have a dinner to get to. I wanna spar with you and see how I compare now…and I wanna see all the cool new Jutsu you've learned." I spun on my heel and gave him a wave.
"Bye my cute little kitten." I froze in my steps and spun around, jaw dropped and extremely confused. Kakashi was basically reveling in my shock and he was glowing with amusement.
"What the hell kinda name is that?" I almost felt like I was at a loss for words.
"Well none of you are my cute little soldiers anymore so since you always seem to play like a kitten…" He trailed off and I got the meaning, it was just a kitten?! "Perhaps my cute little lion is better? Naruto-kun already has cute little fox and Sasuke took my cute little duckbutt." He shrugged nonchalantly like these nicknames weren't created just for the amusement of embarrassing me and pissing off Naruto and Sasuke, though imagining Kakashi calling Sasuke his 'cute little duckbutt' is funny as hell and might be worth keeping the name kitten.
"All of those are terrible." I deadpanned, feeling flustered at the same time, it was so…weird.
"Maa Maa, I think I like kitten best." He was basically talking to himself at this point and not wasting any more time, I jetted off yelling a quick hello to Iruka and Naruto. If I was late in getting properly ready for this dinner, Hanabi and Hiashi would have my head for not having proper attire and etiquette when having 'special' guests over. Knowing how long it has been since anything of the sort, it's going to take a while to be cleaned and done up appropriately. I rushed home and right when my chakra entered the threshold of my house Rukia grabbed my arm and began dragging me to the personal spa/bath house.
"Finally you are home Hinata-hime. Hanabi-hime and the other servants have been waiting for you so we can get you ready. It has been so long since we've gotten to dress you up, everyone is very excited especially with how beautiful you have become!" I was practically dragged through the doorway and hit by an intense steam that smelled of a minty hibiscus. Hanabi was already in the basin of specialized green tea spring water, getting her skin scrubbed raw. Before I had time to do anything, I was being stripped by multiple Hyuga branch women who were the ones to help me since I was just a baby. They were all still lovely even with the addition of wrinkles and graying hair, if not a bit basic looking like many others in my clan and once more I was reminded how much my hair stood out sometimes.
"Ahh just what I love, multiple women undressing me." I mumbled out and got a snort of a laugh from Rukia and Hanabi giggled into her hand.
"I see your humor has not changed my lady."
"Nee-chan, don't be so vulgar." I shrugged and let them dump me into the first stone basin to scrub all of the dirt and grime off of me from my journey and lack of self-care. I was scrubbed with a sponge and a sugar-scrub made with the essence of lavender. They took extra care to not rub too hard on my healing shoulder. Once they were positive all of my dry skin was rubbed off and my skin was once again clean, I was put into a fresh bath and had my hair shampooed and conditioned, man having somebody do that for me was amazing and probably what I missed most about getting pampered. Another two women worked together to shave hair from everywhere on my body. I did a relatively ok job shaving myself when I was gone but sometimes there just isn't time for that you know? Finally I was put into the tea bath and had one more scrub this time it was green and I had no idea what it was made of. It was cool against my skin and burned as it was washed off with the hot water. Hanabi was already getting dressed and she was helping Sanada put flowers in her hair.
I got out of the warm water and was patted dry with a towel before I was rubbed down in a smell-less moisturizer. Ahh nothing like a bunch of older women rubbing lotion all over my naked body, it totally isn't awkward for me. The first time I could remember this happening I freaked out and my whole face turned bright red, my escape attempt failed miserably. A bunch of women who can see through walls were bound to catch my naked and running body.
I had my bandages redone and a robe silk robe was slipped on my body. I was pushed into a chair to get my hair dried and pinned while somebody else worked on putting makeup on my face. They skipped the face powders and added a rose blush and a pink glossy lip paint slightly darker than my natural lip color. My eyes were lined softly in black and just the smallest sheen was added on my eyelids over top the soft brown in my crease. Mascara was added to my lashes softly and I'm so glad nobody stabbed out my eye.
"Nee-chan what color Kimono would you like to wear?" Hanabi called out sweetly, looking through mothers closet to find me something to wear. At this point there was no turning back and as sweet and soft as Hanabi is, she is no-nonsense and would tie me down if she had to. My nails were re-painted from the, the color I chose in the Akatsuki, to a soft barely noticeable pink.
"You pick your favorite for me Hime." Her pale eyes glanced back at me, taking in my makeup and partially done hair before going deeper into the closet for whatever she had her eye on. My hair was curled at the ends and there was a small french braid wrapping around from my right side to the left where my hair was pulled into a low, slightly loose side ponytail, a thick pink ribbon tied around the middle as well as at the end. My bangs were swooped to the side and you could just barely see the purple diamond seal on my forehead. I slid the robe off and put on my undergarments. Hanabi came out carrying a kimono the same color as my hair. She helped me put it on and tie the obi and chord around my waist properly, fixing my bow so it wasn't crooked. The kimono was heavy and slightly difficult to move in but the fabric was extremely soft and silky against my skin.
The kimono was a navy blue that faded into a purple shade at the bottom. Large White and yellow flowers were inked on the bottom and on the base of the sleeves before becoming more sparse the further up they went. There were green leaves and a few small pink flowers as color accents as well. It went down to my feet and left no room for any wild movements, I miss the short Kimonos I could fight in but wearing one of mothers made me feel good, happy. For the final touch I added Konan's butterfly to my hair and looked in the mirror. Damn, it's been a while since I looked so…regal?
Hanabi was dressed as elegant if not more than I am. Her hair was pin straight and her bangs were pinned back with just one piece falling down, there were soft white carnations braided in the parts that were pinned up as well as a few crystal clips here and there. Her makeup was effortless and made her look that much more adorable, not that she needed it. Her lips were glossy pink and her cheeks extra rosy hued with her usual blush underneath the powder. Her skin was glowing and soft and her eyes were lined with a soft brown on the top and a purple on the waterline. Her lashes were long without the need of mascara and had the softest tan-pink eyeshadow on her lids with a tan only a few shades darker than her skin to add depth. Combining that with her soft, completely adorable shy smile she was truly the epitome of a (warrior) princess.
Her kimono was black based a very silky and shiny material that draped perfectly on her. It had pink and white Sakura flowers with a petals strewn about the fabric and the Hyuga clan proudly displayed on the back like mine. The sleeves were long and just barely left room for her fingertips to peak out. She had on classic sandals and her eyes were shining bright as she looked in the mirror. Her bow was tied perfectly and I smiled softly at the sight. She is so adorable oh my gosh.
"You look beautiful Hime."
"Ah, t-thank you. So do you Nee-chan!" A-fricking-dorable. Rukia smiled at the both of us.
"You both look lovely, now. It is about ready for your guests to arrive so please head to the front to escort your guests to dinner, Hyuga-sama is waiting." I held out my hand for Hanabi and she eagerly grabbed it, I gave her hand a squeeze and she gave one back.
"Remember. Hidan is loud and an asshole but don't let him intimidate you, he's kind of an idiot sometimes. Kakuzu looks scary…actually he is kind of scary." I chuckled and tried to envision what each of them were going to wear, maybe Itachi provided them clothes or at least Hidan hopefully bought a shirt and not another leather and fur coat that made him look like a pimp. No way in hell did Kakuzu buy anything but hopefully he has something that isn't his normal Akatsuki garb. Oh well, I guess I'll find out soon.
"I remember!" We made it to the entrance to wait and dad was dressed in his formal Tan and white Hyuga head Yukuta, his hair was brushed and down long and soft, his scar was worn proudly and his shoulders were back and broad. His face was stern but not unkind. He looked like a leader. He looked over to Hanabi and I, nodded in approval.
"You both look well my daughters." Hanabi and I both bowed our heads slightly, smiling. He softened at that.
"Thanks papa/otousan." We replied giddily. "Is Nii-san coming to dinner?" I questioned, hoping I would get to see Neji finally since he was training when I got back.
"Yes, he is heading to us as we speak."
"Hell yeah." I punched my hand into the air in excitement and Hanabi giggled, father letting out a huff of a laugh as well.
"I should have assumed your mouth didn't mature on your mission." A deep, proper voice spoke from the hallway and then Neji popped out with a small smile on his face. He was dressed similar to dad but somehow he looked more princely. There was a white cloth around his forehead to hide the seal but it only seemed to make him look more regal. Whoever marries my big bro is going to be a lucky girl. "It is good to see you Hinata-hime. Hello Hanabi-chan, you both look very lovely."
"Hello Neji-nii, you look good as well." I let go of Hanabi and ran (well moved as fast as I could in the formal attire) and hugged him tightly.
"Nii-san!" He placed a hand on my head carefully as to not mess up my hair. Man, he even smelled like a prince. I grinned up at him and he gave me a composed, kind smile back.
"I am glad to see you are unharmed and have returned home safe." I higged him tightly once more before letting go, Neji wasn't one for too much physical contact and on a team with people like Lee and Gai, he probably gets enough unsolicited hugs.
"Honestly, did you expect anything else from me?" I questioned teasingly, patting his head slightly in a fake condescend manner.
"I have learned to not expect anything if you are involved." Neji shook his head, his long strands of hair swaying with the movements. Even with his tone laced with mirth, he was still dead serious about his statement. He's not wrong though, as much as I try to plan things out, I'm impulse and change things whether or not for the better is TBA.
"Smart choice, I don't know what to expect from myself either." My lips curled into a devious smirk as I thought of Neji newfound high ranking position in the clan. "So… did the elders lose their shit when they realized I was gone?" Neji's eyes flashed with amusement in remembrance of when the elders found out I had gone 'rogue'. I'm hoping it was a giant cluster fuck to deal with for those arrogant assholes.
"Ah, yes it was quite the dramatic scene and to top it off, leaving a branch member in charge…unthinkable. They were enraged, I presume your meeting with them later on is going to be…interesting to say the least." I shuddered at the thought of meeting with the elders…oh fuck. I'm majorly screwed and in for the most elegant yet demeaning tongue lashing of my life. Maybe I'll get lucky and they'll keel over before they summon me.
"Well, shit." I muttered dejectedly and got a pointed look from Hiashi on my choice in words…I wanted to say fuck so I went with a compromise that was less vulgar. Oh man, his uptight rules with cursing are going to be put to the test tonight. I smoothed out the fabric of my kimono and the door was opened by a branch member a few years younger than me, Han, who had escorted Hidan and Kakuzu through the compound to our manor. Han gave a quick bow and scurried away before I could thank him or say hello. Hidan strutted through the doorway, Kakuzu following closely behind. I was completely baffled with the both of them. Hidan wasn't dressed traditionally like we were, instead he was wearing dress pants and a deep red button up that was untucked and undone maybe one button too many but he was dressed much more fancy than I was expecting. (A/N trying to impress the family now are we Hidan?) Kakuzu was dressed similarly but with a green shirt that matched his eyes. He even took his mask off and traded it for one more similar to Kakashi's.
"Hey hot bitch, the family of hot bitch." Hidan winked with a grin and then was hit in the head by Kakuzu. Neji narrowed his eyes towards the Jashinist. "What the hell you old geezer." Hanabi looked at them in shock before turning away to giggle into her palm. Neji and dad were both stone faced as they looked over our guests. Dad's eye twitched at the nickname, I guess calling his baby girl a hot bitch is a no-no, Kakuzu understood that much at least.
"Show some semblance of respect damn fool." The eldest of the Zombie combo husked out lowly. "Your home is adequate, as expected of a noble clan ." It sounded odd for Kakuzu to thank anybody but I guess growing up the way he did, he still has some manners even if they are rarely (never) put to use. That and he was going to be paid by me today so he was in a good mood. He liked money and luxurious things he doesn't have to pay for so this is his opinion on a good night. Hanabi moved from hiding slightly behind Neji and I to stand in front of both men who practically dwarfed her small form. Hidan looked down at her with a brow raised and then Hanabi bowed to them.
"H-Hello Hidan-Sama, Kakuzu-sama. W-welcome to our home, I would like to t-thank you for bringing father home to us." Her cheeks were flushed as Hidan grinned down to her. It wasn't malicious, actually he looked amused if anything. Kakuzu gave her a nod of his head in return.
"It was a mutually beneficial transaction." Leave it to him to think of it as a bank transaction…actually it was. I totally bribed him.
"O-oh, Nee-chan was right when she m-mentioned you really like money."
"Yes well money is the universal language, it makes the world work." Hidan looked ready to intervene and give Kakuzu a piece of his mind for his unholy views but one look from me and he stopped. I was not having him tell Hanabi all the joys of pain and chaos. Hanabi was intrigued by Kakuzu's notion and gave him a soft smile for the knowledge.
"I d-didn't know that. Thank you for y-your wisdom." Kakuzu seemed to approve of Hanabi, he liked her more than me when we met that's for sure. I guess being smart as well as calling his opinions of money wise is a good start to getting him to like you.
"This polite little kid is your sister! What the fuck happened to you?" Hidan was chuckling in amusement. Kakuzu took a look between Hanabi and I, silently agreeing with Hidan's question. Hanabi let out a laugh, she thought Hidan-despite his language-was really funny and by the way I wasn't annoyed with him, she knew we were good friends.
"Dunno." I shrugged noncommittally with a small smirk. "I too question how I ended up so fucked every time I realize that we are friends." I shoved Hidan with my palm just enough to get him to move from the pressure. That damn cocky shit eating grin was still on his face and he swing an arm over my shoulder, magenta eyes taking in more of the house with an impressed glance.
"This place is massive."
"Hinata." Dad's voice was slightly warning, and I stopped messing around. "Escort our guests to the dining room, I will join you shortly." He turned to Hidan and Kakuzu, gave both of them the smallest and most stiff bows I've ever witnessed. "Welcome to the Hyuga compound, if you need anything do not hesitate to ask my children." With a swift turn, he stalked off and I was extremely confused on what he was doing.
"Dude's a stiff but he's god one kick ass scar."
"It does look pretty badass doesn't it?" I commented, as much as I was sad bout how he got the scar, Hidan is right. It makes him look like a complete and utter badass.
"I have to agree, Hyuga-sama's scar is very impressive in look and meaning." Neji finally spoke up since they had arrived, his pale eyes were taking everything in since Hidan and Kakuzu arrived and he was neutral with Kakuzu, he disliked Hidan almost immediately. However, he was willing to put that aside and be cordial because he was one of the two responsible for saving his uncle, my father.
"Ey hot bitch, who the fuck is this pansy." Even with Hidan's superior size, Neji's hard glare was unwavering towards the Jashinist. Hidan just has this miraculous talent of pissing off majority of the people he meets for the first time, Neji not excluded from this list of people.
"My name is Neji Hyuga, partial leader of the Hyuga clan and cousin to Hinata-hime and Hanabi-chan. Since you are a guest, it would do you well to not call the clan heiress something as demeaning and disrespectful as 'Hot Bitch'."
"Fat chance. This godless fucker is your brother… Are you sure you weren't adopted?"
"Ah Neji Hyuga, you were a recent entry into the Bingo Book, your bounty is low as of now but with your position of power you are surely to grow into a cash cow." Ahh, how much I love hearing that my brother is going to be a high bounty for somebody to try to cash in, thanks Kakuzu. Hanabi seemed completely enthralled with Kakuzu, everything he said and did interested her so much and when she asked to hold his hand to see his stitching, instead of shoving her away and calling her a brat, he held his hand out to her. He kind of has that gruff fatherly vibe about him I think and it's great. Hanabi has never opened up to somebody so quickly and it being a dude as big and intimidating as Kakuzu is amazing.
"Ok so instead of doing…" I gestured between the three males, "whatever the hell this is, lets eat. Follow me." I walked forward, my sandals clicking on the wooden flooring. When Neji moved to pass by me, I grabbed his sleeve and got his attention. "Look I know Hidan is…well he's Hidan and the nickname isn't the best, coming from him it's the nicest thing he can come up with so just play nice and don't punch him in the face no matter how bad you want to." He sighed and nodded, pressing a hand to my back to get us to speed up a bit.
"Only fate will decide." I rolled my eyes at the small smile adorning his face, that was as good of a yes as I was going to get. And him adding in fate was just his way of messing around, Zabuza had taunted that mindset out of Neji years ago. We entered the dining room, it was done up immaculately to impress company. Though everything was in shades of white and tan with lavender strewn in, it was simple and elegant. I slid off my shoes, and went to my place at the right end table, kneeling on the pillow with my hands in my lap. Hanabi took her place across from me, dragging Kakuzu to sit beside her. Hidan took the spot at my side and Neji took a spot at one end of the table, the other being saved for dad. As soon as everyone was seated, maids rushed in with plates of traditional foods like Sashimi, Yakitori, a steaming pot of homemade miso soup, a heaping bowl of steamed vegetables (curtsey of health freak Neji), and Sukiyaki. I specifically requested them to make Hidan spare ribs and Kakuzu monkfish liver. They also set a pot of the Hyuga secret blend of green tea as well as my own little pot of iced, bitter berry citrus tea. I felt so much love knowing that my clansmen remembered my favorite drink. Kakuzu let out a low whistle at the sight of the perfectly cooked food that had to have been prepared since this morning.
"Holy fuck, this is the cushy life you were living as a clan heiress! Damn, I could get used to meals like this." I agreed, one of the perks of being a clan child so high on the food chain was the food. I leaned over to Hidan, Neji's eyes watching me without my knowledge.
"So uh thanks for you know dressing so nice… you look good. I didn't think you had it in you, honestly. I expected you and Kakuzu to show up in sweats, but I know my father was pleased at the sign of respect." He smiled, showing of all of his teeth in it and his chest puffed out in pride.
"Gotta make a good fuckin' impression on my future family." He grinned and eyed me up and down quickly. "Besides, when you look so damn hot, I gotta pull my weight too." I rolled my eyes but smiled nonetheless. Hidan has noticeably been on his best behavior and it's surprising. When he isn't so hostile around people he want's to slice up, he's pretty ok at being around a lot of people. Before any of us could begin to eat, father opened the door and Hanabi, Neji, and I stood up until he was seated so that we could take our place once again at the table. His eyes moved over the food in approval, seeing as everything was cooked and presented properly.
"Before we begin to eat, as a representation for my gratitude of returning me to my family the Hyuga clan would like to offer our aid for as long as you are seeking solace in the village. Alongside that, take these gifts as thanks." He handed Kakuzu and Hidan each a sealing scroll. They looked at it and then back to my father, Kakuzu's eyes were gleaming that gleam when he gets money. I leaned over to take a peak at Hidan's scroll and my jaw dropped, he didn't open it but it had writing on it saying it was a new more high tech three pronged scythe that had chains that were almost unbreakable. Hidan was grinning dangerously excited. I can't believe after me telling them brief details about both of them, dad had such perfect gifts made in less than 8 hours.
"I thought you were a stuck up prick but I like ya. Jashin-sama will be very pleased with this new weapon." Hell yeah he would, the sketch of the Scythe was rolled up in the scroll and one look, it was kick ass. It looked to be the same size of Hidan's old one but the red blades were now a deep silver and curved in a more menacing manner. The handle was black with what looked like bloody symbols of Jashin down it as well as a deep, bloody red handle with a black chain with a band to attach it to his hand.
"I accept your gift, it is extremely pleasing. Thank you Hyuga-san." Kakuzu bowed his head and father gave him the same in return.
"Now let us eat, I presume everything is to your liking?" Kakuzu and Hidan both grunted a yes. I put my hands together in prayer and bowed my head in thanks for the food and then we all got to dig in. I plated my food with a bit of everything…except the steamed cauliflower because that stuff is just not good. Hidan piled up on the spare ribs and various other meat while Kakuzu seemed pleased to get a healthy amount of his liver based dishes. Neither were keen on vegetables so they put noodle based dishes and rice instead. Hanabi poured tea for Kakuzu and herself, I poured it for Father and Hidan, and Neji poured for himself.
Dinner was never that lively in the compound but Hidan and I talked and soon everyone joined in, Kakuzu taking the time to answer every question Hanabi had as well as teaching her the proper 'rules' of money.
"And this one time after a spar between the old geezer and I…" I put my hand over Hidan's mouth to stop him from telling the story. Somehow, Neji had asked a question and it turned into them making fun of things I've done.
"Don't you dare." I hissed out, I'd already had Neji tell about my stupid fear of birds when I was younger and don't need any more things embarrassing to be known.
"I would like to hear the rest Hinata-hime."
"M-me as well Nee-chan." Hanabi smiled at me with a slight hint of mirth.
"Ah, even I would like to hear this my daughter." I could feel his smirk against my palm and with the pleading eyes of Hanabi, I relented, hanging my head low. Who thought this dinner was a good idea again?
"Right ok so I fucking smashed Kakuzu into the ground and broke a hole into the lower floor and no way in hell was I fixing it so we left the hole. Hot bitch was reading some dumb book and walking when I, being the amazing person I am, tried to warn her but she didn't fucking listen like a hardheaded idiot and fell through, breaking her hand. She let out the fucking girliest scream I'd ever heard. One second she was there and the next she was gone through the floor." I cringed at the memory, Hidan, Kakuzu and Suigetsu laughed at me for days. As funny as it was, it was completely and utterly embarrassing to eat shit like than and oh god the noise that came out of my mouth was the highest squeal I'd ever made.
"At least I'm not the one who cut their own finger off trying to play a stupid game."
"Shut the fuck up about that. Jashin-sama you're annoying sometimes." Hidan's language made my father twitch, he said nothing against it though I'm guessing he isn't the biggest fan of the bloodthirsty Jashinist. Neji still stared tensely at Hidan. He knew he was dangerous, Hidan radiated danger but seeing that Hidan was just an asshole and not an actual threat (well not at the moment) he was able to enjoy the stories of my time in the Akatsuki. Though, a few times they but heads and we had to change the topic before things got too out of hand. Neji was being surprisingly protective.
"K-Kakuzu-sama what did you think of Nee-chan w-when you met her?" Kakuzu pursed his unmasked lips for a second before replying.
"I thought your sister was a reckless idiot who would die early." Yeah, he told me I was going to die within a day of meeting one another. "She is still a reckless idiot as well as a brat, but she is intelligent and a strong Kunoichi who plays to her strengths well. You have a good role model, though you seem to be more mature than her already." I grinned at Kakuzu and Hanabi gave him a wide-eyed look of awe when he spoke.
"Nee-chan is cool. Kakuzu-sama you are cool too. You are very scary, greedy, and a bad guy b-but you are smart and I l-like you!" Hanabi's cheeks flushed as she shouted louder than usual at Kakuzu. He looked down at her and placed a hand on her head, avoiding the flowers as he pat her. She squirmed happily at his actions.
"Ha, greedy old bastard, I can't believe you got a cute fuckin' little squirt to not run away in terror. Jashin-sama would like your soul before you go so damn soft." Hidan smirked at Kakuzu, taunting his friend to retaliate.
"Shut your mouth or I'll kill you." Kakuzu growled, slowly letting his KI out and directing it to Hidan.
"Try it old man!" Hidan gripped a small knife in his hand and pointed it at Kakuzu. Neither could kill the other so Hanabi giggled in amusement at their odd show of affection for one another.
"Kakuzu-san would you like an aid?" Neji offered easily, standing up and preparing his chakra to ready an attack. The atmosphere just got a bit more tense…this was more how I expected the night to go.
"I'll sacrifice you too pretentious asshole." Hidan pointed the knife at Neji as well, gritting his teeth and glaring. This was more likely to end up in a fight that had no good outcomes.
"Oh my god, you guys are like toddlers." I finally stood up as well and glared between the testosterone filled boys, First Kiba then Sasuke and now Neji, ugh guys are so difficult in their stupid pissing matches that seem to happen for no damn reason.
"Neji-san stand down." Hiashi ordered and Neji stopped his actions entirely, nodding in acceptance.
"Yes Hiashi-sama." He took a seat and Kakuzu and Hidan both did as well, neither of them really wanting to fight each other at least not inside my home.
"Hinata-chan, it is time for our guests to leave, please accompany them on their way out. Hanabi-chan, say your goodbyes, you have training early." I drank down one more sip of tea before standing up and bowing quickly, dad gave me a small smile and I returned it.
"Got it Otousan." I moved to slide my shoes back on, the two large men following suit.
"Yes Papa." Hanabi replied before getting to her feet. Father stood up and bowed.
"Thank you once again; however, Hidan-san, my patience can only go so far and if you refer to my daughter in such crude ways you will lose more than a finger." Neji smirked at the statement and I let out a small nervous chuckle.
"Yeah yeah." Ahh no yelling or blow up, thank Jashin. "Thanks for the food and scythe Hyuga."
"I-It was nice to meet you Hidan-sama." Hanabi bowed and smiled shyly at him. "You are very funny Hidan-sama even if you talk worse than Nee-chan."
"You too kid."
"Thank you for the hospitality Hyuga-san." Kakuzu was ready to leave when Hanabi wrapped her hands around him, her head barely reaching his waist. "Hanabi-chan I enjoyed meeting you as well." He pat her head again and she smiled brightly up at him.
"Goodbye Kakuzu S-sempai, I will c-come visit you soon." He raised a brow at the new honorific but accepted it anyways. I feel like I should be worried Hanabi wants to learn from a greedy killer but I guess it could be worse and he isn't going to hurt her. Plus if he gets that happy of a smile from her, I can't say no to her talking to him.
"Very well." He nodded gruffly and removed her from him, slid up his mask, and held the door open for me to walk out of before following behind me. Hidan was waiting for us and we left to weave through the maze of a compound to get to the gate.
"Hime really likes you, I've never seen her open to somebody so fast." I commented and Kakuzu grunted but wasn't annoyed in the slightest. I think they have some odd unspoken friendship bond thing that makes no sense but it's adorable. Leave it to Hanabi to befriend the grumpy miser who kills people who annoys him and get him to actually not hate her.
"She knows greatness when she sees it. Hanabi-san is a bright kid."
"Yeah, she is." We made it to the front gates. "Thanks for coming over even if you pissed off my dad and brother…Hidan. I'll talk to Tsunade later about getting you cleared for missions fully. Hidan, go to T&I tomorrow and they will give you someone to Sacrifice after getting information out of him." As much as I don't agree with the way of Jashin fully, I wouldn't want to hinder Hidan from his religion and if he's doing it in a 'better' way then I will do what I can to help. I slid my scroll out of my sleeve and Handed it to Kakuzu. "This is all the money I promised." He took a look at it before handing it back to me.
"Keep it. Your father gave me more than what you had promised so you are no longer indebted to me. Save it for when you decide to bribe me again."
"I..uh..the fuck..ok. I guess I'll see you later then? If your not going to take it, at least know this… if need money in a pinch, gamble against Lady Tsunade." I totally sold her out, but she needs to learn never to fucking gamble again and hopefully having Kakuzu take all her shit, she'll stop or you know I'll get a good laugh at her pissy attitude towards people the next day and how they reek with fear.
"Hm." Kakuzu left through the gate leaving Hidan and I alone. He looked just as confused as I did with the misers actions.
"What the fuck was that?" I questioned.
"Like hell if I know." Hidan rounded on me, grinning devilishly. Last time he looked like that, he promised to make me love him so I was a bit wary of what he was going to say. I just…ugh…I can't think about romance like this right now. Maybe one day I can really see how I feel about people but for now, I just need to do what I was possibly sent here to do. "Your family is fucking wild." I snickered, that is very true. He stepped closer to me and I moved back just bit. "You look fuckin hot in that shit, though I think when you are covered in blood it's even better." He backed me into the wall and used his finger to lift my face to meet his. "Don't forget hot bitch, one day you're going to fall helplessly for me and our chaotic love."
"How could I forget that?" I was entranced as his magenta eyes burned into mine, they were glittering in the moonlight. One of his hands deftly played with the Jashin symbol he put on my necklace and the other was pressed right against my head. He was buzzing with some type of energy and I felt the air temperature raise around me. He leaned forward and pressed his lips against my ear, I could feel his breath against the shell. His tongue shot out of his mouth and licked the curve of my ear before pulling away cackling out a laugh.
"Bye Hot Bitch, you're fucking adorable. Ahh thank god for Jashin-sama's soon to be approval cuz next time you look at me like that, I'm kissing you for real." Hidan left the compound at top speed, still laughing as he left. I was stunned for a second before heading back to my room to change, my breathing was very strained and my ear tingled. Fuck me, what did I get myself into.
I got back from the gate and went straight to Hanabi's room to tell her goodnight. After taking my shoes off to not make any sounds as I walked over the tatami mat flooring. I slid open the door and she was just now slipping under her covers, her face was cleaned and hair done back into her normal style. She gave me a happy yet tired smile as she rested her head back against the pillow, her eyes fluttering as she tried to ward off sleep.
"Mhm…Hi Nee-chan." She mumbled softly. I sat on the edge of her bed and stroked her hair, she nuzzled into my hand. "Today was fun…I think…I think Hidan-sama likes you. That's why Neji-nii was so… defensive." She struggled to get the words out as sleep was becoming harder and harder to fight. Ahh, the ever observant Hyuga. Neji was being more defensive than usual. I thought it was because Hidan was a slightly mentally unstable killer but maybe she is right and he was trying to protect me like a real big brother. I pressed my lips to her forehead and turned off the lamp.
"I think you might be right Hime." She responded with a timid smile and then her body was still, the only sign she was living was the slow rise and fall of her chest. I pulled the blanked up to her neck to make sure she wouldn't get cold and gave her one last kiss, happy to be able to put her to sleep once again. "Goodnight." I whispered before slipping out of her room quietly and heading down the corridor to my room. I was deep in my thoughts, tonight was extremely fun even with Hidan and Neji ready to kill one another, it definitely went better than I thought. I kept trying to forget about earlier, but somehow I could still feel Hidan's lips on my ear and his promise to kiss me for real. I didn't even know what I was supposed to feel about that: excited, nervous, confused? I was feeling a mix of so many I couldn't distinguish it. So like the emotionally balanced ninja I am, I shoved all thoughts and feelings on the situation deep down. It will blow up at some point just like everything else, but today is not that day.
When I finally made it to my room I happily undid the Obi, and carefully took off the layers of my kimono. I laid the fabric flat on the ground to not ruin it and stretched my body, free from the restraints of fabric. I muffled through my clothing before deciding to just wear my pajamas to meet Deidara. I had a bit of time before I needed to leave so I thought of what I needed to say to him. Deidara held grudges like nobodies business but it was also hard to get him so mad at somebody so I had my work cut out for me. As selfish as it sounds, I don't want to lose him, he's one of my best friends and a person I always counted on when we were in the Akatsuki. I had to find a way to tell him the truth while also lying to him about Tobi about everything. I fear that is he leaves, he'll die and I have to try to prevent that. I slid the silky lilac pajamas on, the shirt falling loosely over me. Carefully I removed the pins and decorations in my hair and ran my fingers through the long strands to undo the braid and ponytail. The lengthy midnight strands tumbled loosely down my back. I wet a washcloth and meticulously scrubbed the makeup off of my face, I tried to focus more on the repetitive swirling of the cloth against my skin versus the extreme nerves that I was feeling.
I was counting down the minutes until I had to leave, I so wanted to push this off until later but for the intensity that is sure to come tomorrow and the week to come, I need my mind as clear as possible and I can't be worrying about my strained friendship with the blonde bomber boy in the middle of it. One minute…I carefully pulled on some thick socks and grabbed a jacket to keep warm in the chilled spring air. I suppressed my chakra and kept my steps silent, creeping around the house hoping nobody (mainly my father, an elder, or Neji) would catch me sneaking out minutes before midnight. As soon as I made it out of the threshold of the house, the cool air made me shiver slightly. Home stretch, I need to make it out of the compound unseen by anyone who would ask questions or say something to my dad. The night sky was relatively starless and the moon was only a sliver, there wasn't much natural light and once again I praised the Hyuga genes coursing through my veins because my eyesight was only slightly hindered by the night sky, if anything it was now the same level as any non-dojutsu wielding person.
A guard passed by me and I slunk into the shadows, her Byakugan wasn't active so I went undetected. When Her footsteps were nothing but the faintest of sounds, I pushed off the wall and bolted, throwing myself over the wall of the compound instead of going through the-now closed-front gate. My chakra sparked back to life only slightly and I spread it out, searching for even the faintest hint of the explosive and smokey chakra of the resident terrorist. After only a few minutes, I got a lock, just the faintest hint of that chakra coursing through him waiting, ready to detonate at the slightest movement-and I followed it until I found him, sitting up lazily in a tree. His eye flickered down to me, taking in everything at a glance and his eye narrowed in some kind of frustration before he hopped down and stood in front of me, using his slightly superior height to his advantage. There was a frown marring his usual smug or crazed expressions.
"You wanted to talk un, so talk. I'm not Danna un but I'm not a patient person hmm." His voice lacked the normal excitement and liveliness, he was detached and annoyed. He was more cold and calculating than the fun and wild person I knew, I didn't mind when he was like this, it was usually when trying to figure out something but when it was directed at me, it was disheartening. He pressed his back against the tree and slid down it, sitting down whit his arms crossed. I carefully sat myself in front of him so we could have a perfect view of each other.
"I-" I stopped for a second trying to piece the millions of thoughts running through my head into a functioning sentence. "Ugh ok, first I need to know exactly what you are pissed for and then we can go from there…right?" Huh, I never realized how little I actually apologized to people…I'm a shitty person. I usually am forgiven so effortlessly that I never remembered to truly fix something or I'd bribe my way out but it wont work this time…great.
"Dammit Hinata, you used me yeah. You manipulated me like those damn Iwa bastards, lying to me to make me be beneficial to your goals and not my own. At least I knew they were shady un." I flinched at the cold anger and betrayal radiating from his words, I would much rather have his angry hot headed screaming to this cold burn. He was less mad and more hurt, he felt like I treated him as shitty as the village he hated. And He's right, I did. I'm a shitty person. "You told me about that fucker Tobi un but didn't even think to tell me that you were still trying to bring him along. And then your ass shows up all bloody when you are looking ready to die you tell me about bringing that damned manipulative Uchiha asshole along." His eyes were shining and not in a positive way, he was hissing at me in a loud whisper and I dug my fingers into my palms until I could feel the first derma layer breaking.
"I-I'm sorry. You're right about everything. I'm a shitty friend and a manipulative asshole. I-I have no excuses. I wanted to bring Tobi because well, he's hurting and miserable and if I could do something to stop him from trying to destroy the world I was going to do it. I should have told you though. I'm sorry, I'm-I'm an asshole." My voice came out cracked and strained as I talked, I hated myself sometimes. If I wasn't here, if the regular Hinata was here, this would have never happened. I have this hidden feeling that I stole something that wasn't mine to have and I keep fucking it up but then if I didn't, he'd be dead. They'd all be…gone. I'm not that Hinata, I never can be, and sometimes I feel like I should be the one who is gone and dead but I just have to use what I have until I reach my last breath. No turning back now.
"Hmph." He snorted indignantly and waited for me to continue.
"You, you were, you are my friend. You were the one of the only one who it never felt like there was an alternate reason for hanging out with me other than because you liked me for me, not to find out my secrets or to get something from me." His intense gaze lessened and his arms uncrossed slightly. We never broke our eye contact no matter how much I wanted to tear my eyes from his. "I-I wanted to bring you to my home, it's not perfect…my plan wasn't well thought out or goof and I didn't realize how not telling you everything would be so dickish of me…but I wanted you to come so-so you would stay alive! If we all left and you were there, I'm almost positive you would have died and it would have been worthless! If you died, it would hurt so damn much Deidara! There were always the dark times joining the Akatsuki but whenever we were together, we could just be…and live in the moment. I guess I never wanted to lose that, it's selfish really, I know I'm an asshole and probably deserve a whole lotta shit but you do mean a lot to me so I just did- I did what I thought could keep you safe and do damage control later. I'm sorry. I'm so sorry."
My voice went from calm to yelling to whimpering pathetically and Deidara said nothing, he just watched as I talked, as the angry tears at how much of a shitty friend I am fell from my eyes. I finally broke our eye contact, ready and accepting that he was going to hate me forever. There was a huff and indignant mumbling of curses before his soft, earthy-smelling hands licked away the tears until they stopped falling.
"Don't cry, you look more stupid than usual like that, yeah. You are an asshole and stupid un, but you're right about one thing. I like being your friend too yeah? You're fun and not a buzzkill even if friends with Uchiha-bastard and you respect what true art is un. I guess I should be happy you want me alive to show my art to this tasteless village. You're not like Iwa un, but if you use me again I will showcase you as my most powerful art form hmm." There was a teasing lilt in his tone but I knew he was dead serious about blowing me up and honestly I deserve it. I don't deserve his forgiveness and yet it keeps being given to me, I just-ugh. I wrapped an arm around him tightly, burying my head into his chest and heaving out heavy breaths feeling like everything was too unreal. My hand gripped the one that licked my face and I lightly traced the outline of the slightly chapped mouth until it opened and bit down on my finger.
"I-heh, it's a deal. Leave it to you to make this into your art Dei." I snickered slightly, trying to shove down my self hate and just bask in the love and happiness that I was feeling for him not totally hating me and going off to bomb things until he dies. Now that I've had him in my life to make things sparkle and explode with fun, I don't know how to let it go.
"My art is spontaneous, it can't be contained to a specific moment un." I could envision the smug look on his tanned features and the proud way his eyes would glimmer when thinking of his art. It was so incredibly wild and so incredibly Deidara. The only thing at this point that mattered was he was staying, even when he felt betrayed, he is staying. He-He won't die yet, not on my account.
"I know Dei, I know." I paused for a second n realization and shot my head up to look at him in bewilderment. "Wait, did your fucking hands lick me!?" He let out a laugh full of mirth and amusement before holding his hands up, the tongues lolling out of their mouthes in a mocking gesture.
"They did it not me hmm." He shrugged like he had no control over the situation, arrogant smirk never leaving his lips. It was like a switch was flipped and Deidara was well Deidara again.
"What- thats not even possible-they belong to you!" I spluttered, confused and laughing and more confused for how I wasn't as grossed out as I should have been. I curled back into his warmth, the air was frigid and we were both glad for some kind of heat. We talked quietly for a bit before Shisui came up.
"So is that Shisui guy actually an Uchiha, like related to Itachi Uchiha un?"
"Hmm, yeah he's full blooded Uchiha, not that you'd know it with his actions. He doesn't have the Sharingan anymore though, somebody ripped them out of his head."
"Brutal hmm. I guess don't hate that Uchiha, he made the bastard lose his cool and finally had to drop that stupid cool and composed facade yeah." Deidara bristled at even talking about Itachi but a second later he looked extremely pleased thinking of Shisui making Itachi react more in a few seconds than he'd ever seen. It only fueled Deidara's fire in wanting to break Itachi seeing that it is possible. It was a bit disconcerting on how bad he still wanted to kill Itachi but for now, that has to be put on the back burner until Itachi is at least not a walking corpse. My body was getting heavier the longer we sat and stared up at nothing. I needed to sleep before enduring on the most difficult medical endeavor possibly ever tomorrow. My chakra was at full capacity and all I needed was some sleep and a giant ass cup of coffee in the morning and together Sasori, me, and the team of specially chosen doctors will be the deciding factor of whether or not Itachi gets to live. Sleep was slowly taking the pensive blonde as well.
"Hinata-chan, get up and go to sleep un. I'm not getting sick because you decided to sleep outside." I slowly stood up, him following and rubbing a tired eye.
"Mhm ok, Night Dei, I'm glad you didn't leave yet." I mumbled into him, getting a hum of agreement and a pat on the back. He released me and made a bird to take him to the Uchiha compound faster. I stretched before turning and hopping over the wall, slinking back into my room and passing out almost the instant I hit the pillow, my mind blank and ready to focus solely on Itachi and keeping him alive. I mean, what could go wrong…right?