Hello everyone. Yes, I am back from the dead. Life has a habit of throwing curve balls and a rather curvy one was thrown our way. I have picked up my family and moved them to central Florida where we have been trying to restart our lives, to include looking for jobs. No rhyme or reason to give out, just a fact. Do not fret, this story is not dead and still has a long way to go before it is complete. Hopefully I will be updating Kitsune Clan shortly as well so those of you that ask if I will be putting any up for adoption. The answer is no. I will continue with both, and possibly start a third as well. Thank you for all your support. For those that are curious about my better half, yes she is still amongst the living as well and will hopefully be updating as well. Get the lead out Jadedren, fans await.
Review Responses:
Andakin117: Thank you for the kind words and I will attempt to keep things riveting and surprising with twists and turns every few corners. After all I could never stand a story that was too linear. I need drama.
Hinata-win: I am pleased that you appreciate the story so far. I have to say although that people dub the cliffhangers so evil, they are a great tool and resource to writers. I have used them as well, and will likely in the future. But with that said it is important to create a balance of cliffhangers and subtle stops.
Stormbringers Fury: You bring up a great aspect in fanfiction. The ever so present sex scene. I am a firm believer in open expression in writing, whether it is romance, action, or just plain smut. I appreciate all forms that writers present. I am 34 and married with four children, there is a time for raunchy sex and time for love making. This story is just the same as I am sure that within the time Naruto and Hinata have been together, that have had a few smut sections together as well. I just never put it in. The time never presented itself. That is where the author comes in, finding or creating the environment the gives rise to the chosen scene. Sadly I find that there a lot of stories that fall short on the lead-up.
NaruhinaxAODx: Thank you for the review. To answer your questions 1: When Ino started to fall for Choji she had already broken things off with Kiba, and thrown herself into her work at the hospital. The feeling were likely present from their time spent as Team 10, but buried under adolescent confusion. It took a moment of sympathy and caring to bring out the dwelling emotions and possibilities. 2: Sasuke will be back in the story at a later date. I will not divulge any more information than that. Spoilers and all. ;)
Kingkakashi: Always a great review. Yes you are an evil little monster, decapitating Choji like you did. I was really upset at that development. But as writers we know that to develop emotion and character growth, there must be pain and loss. Do not feel bad for killing a character, as loss will be ever present in mine as well. There will be other moments that will hopefully tear at the hearts of the readers as well. On a side note I have not forgotten about the reunion you have asked for and it is still coming. Keep an eye open for it.
Sorry I couldn't get to all your reviews but I appreciate everyone of them and hope to get more of your feedback in the future.
Hokage Tower
The doors to the Hokage tower opened up and a group of individuals walked out into the bright afternoon sun. Laughter could be heard from them as they were recapping the events that had unfolded just moments earlier.
"Did you see the look on their faces when you threatened to pull your inheritance from the village?" Ino shouted.
"Are you kidding me? I thought I would have to bring that fat golden pig back from the dead. Just the news alone probably took five years off his life," Sakura stated.
"Naruto-kun, what do you plan on doing with your inheritance if you won't claim it?" Hinata asked her husband.
A sullen look crossed his face at the thought of his parents, and what his life would have been like if they had been a family from the beginning. Looking back to Hinata he instantly cheered up at the family he had now. "The investments will be used for the economic stability of Konoha, with a portion going to fund my parents' old home".
As they walked down the street to their destination everyone listened in on the conversation, "Why would an empty home need to be funded?" Neji asked.
The blonde looked back at his best friend with a grin plastered to his face and warmth in his heart for what he had planned. "My parents' house was actually quite large, and surprisingly survived Pain's attack. I visited it just before I left, after the battle, just to see where I would have grown up. But, since I will not be living within Konoha, and my apartment is more than enough to stay in during visits, I will be donating the place to the village to use as a new orphanage".
"The orphans have been staying in the rebuilt structures once the village was completed," Shikamaru commented.
"I heard," Naruto stated. "Before I was kicked out of the orphanage, it was a run-down building then. After Pain's attack it was no surprise that it didn't survive, even on the outskirts".
"That is very charitable of you Naruto," Neji complimented.
The blonde nodded before continuing, "It was either that or give it to the village and they would likely use it as a museum. It just seemed wrong to me that people would pay to look at the place my parents had lived in before they died, like a tourist spot or mausoleum. Hopefully the children will be happy growing up in a house that was meant to love a family".
"Enough with this sad stuff," Ino exclaimed. "Choji should be just about ready to serve lunch soon, so let's go get that adorable daughter of yours Hinata and get to the restaurant".
Hinata felt her arm get tugged by the exuberant blonde woman and started being dragged down the road. "Ino-san, we will be there shortly. There is no reason to rush it. Besides, Tenten-san will be interested knowing how the council meeting went as well".
The group of friends finally rounded the corner of the street that Tenten's parents shop was located on. All were talking and laughing amongst themselves with the exception of Naruto and Hinata who were surprisingly quiet. They were just taking in the sights of the village as they walked through the streets. Once they neared the entrance to the shop the group came to an abrupt halt as a few seemed to hit a brick wall. The brick wall in question had blond hair with his wife's hand tucked in his arm.
"Naruto, why did you stop?" Sakura asked.
"Shh," Naruto motioned for them to keep their voices down. Almost immediately Hinata gasped and Neji stiffened. Naruto quickly took in his surroundings, the lights to the shop were off, the business sign was turned to "CLOSED", and the most eerie sign was that there were no sounds coming from inside. "Hinata," Naruto whispered while releasing Hinata's hand and reached within his cloak for a kunai.
Nodding she activated her Byakugan and began scanning the inside of the shop. Running through all the information that was presented to her she tried not to panic. "Naruto-kun, the place is in shambles. There is one person lying on the floor but he is alive and unconscious. It looks like it is Tenten's father".
Neji having done the same made a mad dash for the door but was quickly pushed back by the Uzukage. He was going to vocalize his anger at being stopped but one looked from the blonde put a complete stop to the notion. Just that one look he could see that Naruto was in complete Uzukage mode. It wasn't just Tenten that was on the line but Kushina as well. They had left the baby with Tenten while they attended the council meeting. If Naruto could keep calm the he could as well.
For those that heard or knew what lay beyond those doors all saw a very calm blonde man assessing the situation. What they didn't know was the typhoon of emotions swirling within him. "How far back?" was the only question he asked.
"Straight back, about fifty feet from the entrance, he is lying on his stomach," Hinata elaborated.
Before anyone knew what had happened the door was blown off its hinges by a Rasengan and Naruto had already disappeared inside. Neji, Shikamaru, and Kiba stepped up and slowly entered the shop, weapons in hand. Concern etched across Hinata's face as she entered with the rest of the group, already knowing that there were no other dangers in the buildings confines.
While most of the people were evaluating the condition of the interior Neji ran to his father-in-law to get a more physical assessment on his condition. When he rolled the portly man over he could tell there was some minor physical trauma. Even unconscious he let out a pained groan, most likely due to the broken arm that was twisted at a bad angle. He was also sporting a bruised left face.
Naruto walked out from the back of the shop where the residence quarters was located after checking the rest of the building for himself. It wasn't that he didn't trust Hinata's evaluation beforehand, but he himself had developed methods to hide people and objects from the Byakugan. As he walked up to a crouching Neji he took in the condition of the man on the floor. Neji looked up at his friend, "He will survive with no lasting damage but half his tenketsu have been shut down".
At the news of the diagnosis Naruto's anger grew even more profound becoming palpable to those within the shop. It caused the few that had not become accustomed to his aura to quiver and remind themselves of who he was. Just then a groan could be heard and everyone's head shifted to the origin to the sound. Naruto crouched next to the man and waited for him to regain some of his bearings before he pushed for answers.
The large man looked up from his floored position and took note of the pale eyes staring back at him. He flinched a little but as his view cleared further he took note of exactly who it was. "N-neji, Tenten and the baby…"
"Where are they?" came the icy tome from the Uzukage.
The man turned his head slightly to see a blue-eyed man in a kage robe, "Minato-sama". Naruto shook his head in the negative and the man recollected who the other was. "I'm sorry… I tried…"
"It's ok, just tell me what happened," Naruto stated.
Tenten's father swallowed dryly, "Hyuga, the Hyuga," he then coughed. "Six of them came in and grabbed them while I was in the back. Tenten went with them to protect Kushina and when I came out of the back…" he groaned in pain. "They attacked me when I tried to stop them".
Naruto turned his back to the man and addressed the others, "Sakura, Ino patch him up and get him to the hospital. Kiba and Shikamaru could you please clean up this place for me?" Without waiting for a response he turned and started walking for the door.
"Where are you going Naruto?" Sakura called out.
He stood in the doorway not bothering to turn around, "To destroy a clan". And with that he left.
Hinata ran up to Neji as Sakura and Ino began their work on the wounded man, "Neji, my father should still be at the Hokage Tower. We need to get to him as fast as we can".
Neji nodded in response at the shock of the idea of what Naruto had set out to do. He quickly got to his feet and left with Hinata.
Hokage Tower Minutes Later
The council chambers were abuzz with conversation as the people inside were in discussion of proposals that would be presented during the next official meeting. Those that remained within the council chambers when Naruto and the heir group left were still present with the exception of the Hokage, the Hokage to be, and Shizune. In light of the new information presented by the Uzukage and the effects the information would have upon the village there was a lot to debate.
The doors to the council chamber suddenly burst forward and everyone's heads turned to gaze upon the intruders to the meeting. "Father, what have you done!?" Hinata growled out.
Hiashi was dumbstruck at the presence of his daughter. She had raised her voice to an almost yell, but it had an animalistic tone to it that if he didn't supply an adequate answer, he was bound to lose valuable body parts. What added to the effect was that his nephew who followed closely behind her held eyes that promised a painful murder. "H-hinata, what are you doing here?"
By the time he was able to stammer out his question his daughter was already standing in front of him staring up into his eyes, looking for validity in anything he said. "Where is she?!"
"Where is who Hinata?" he finally asked.
Before he knew what had happened, with speed he had not seen since she threatened him when she left, he was forced back into a wall. Her left palm was open pinning him just below his throat, her other hand opened and glowed with chakra, poised to strike. "My daughter," she growled. "WHERE IS SHE?!"
"I-I-I-I do not know. What are you talking about Hinata?" Hinata creased her eyes, interpreting the facial marks of her father looking for any deception. Realizing that something was seriously wrong, especially something that would send his normally kindhearted daughter into such a fit he pressed further. "What has happened?"
Shaking her head to calm herself she released her father, slightly satisfied that her father was telling the truth. Concern and anger still creased her face, "Someone has…" she started but was quickly stopped when an explosion rocked the building. All those near started to look around in a panic as pain crossed her face. Hiashi looked down just in time to see his daughters eyes shimmer red before turning back to normal and her breathing quicken. He was about to question it when she spoke again, "We need to hurry!" With that said she started for the door followed by Neji.
"What is going on Hinata?" Hiashi asked the retreating form of his daughter.
Without breaking stride as she neared the door, "Hurry now or there may be no clan to return to."
Hiashi paled at the statement and did as his daughter instructed.
Hyuga Clan Compound
Hinata, Neji, and Hiashi arrived at the front gate of the Hyuga compound, or what was left of the gate. Now where the large wooden gate stood was a thirty foot hole, the plants that adorned the outside and inside of the wall were missing. As they walked through the opening the Hokage, Kakashi, and a small entourage of ANBU also appeared. "Hiashi, what's happening?" Tsunade asked.
The man turned to his village leader, "I do not know all the details. From what my daughter has informed me, her daughter has been taken along with the girl Tenten. For some reason they believe that the Hyuga Clan is involved".
The group looked around the clan lawns and saw the place was littered with debris. Bodies were strewn about as if a small war had taken place within the courtyard. Little did they know that one had and the one man army was deep inside the compound. Tsunade stared at all the downed people and couldn't help but ask, "Are they all," she gulped, "dead?"
Shaking her head Hinata responded, "No Hokage-sama. That is not Naruto-kun's style".
"You mean, one young man did all this?" Tsunade asked. "And without killing anyone?"
Nodding this time, "Naruto takes killing very seriously. He has in the past and will likely do so in the future, but to only those he believes are beyond redemption." Hinata looked around the small battlefield and took stock of the area and what her husband could have possibly used to take down this many men. "Hokage-sama, you will need to get a seal team in here to help these people along with medics". She looked closer at some of the faces of a few of the men and spoke again, "Also I believe Kurenai-sensei and you Kakashi will be able to help as well". She turned with a hardened stare into the blonde woman's eyes, "You will also need a place in the T&I department to handle any insanity issues that they may have". Suddenly there was another large explosion at the back of the compound that caused the group to jump and take a defensive stance. Everyone turned to Hinata as she began walking in that direction. They all quickly followed.
Hyuga Elder Meeting Hall
"Where is my daughter and Tenten?" Naruto growled out as he stepped through the large hole in the wall.
An elderly Hyuga with greying hair rushed forward while others were seen trying to maintain the air of indifference behind a table, their stink of fear clear in the air. As the man neared the blonde he struck out but met nothing but the void where his adversary once was. With his stance still in a striking pose his head burst into pain as he quickly met the floor. He had no idea how he got into that position and would not have the opportunity to dwell on it as a scream erupted from his throat. There was an echoing snap that reverberated off the walls and the man's left leg was snapped at the femur. Naruto was standing over him with his foot still on the pained leg, waiting for the screams to die down before he questioned further.
As the elder Hyuga gained his composure at Naruto's feet, the blonde asked once more, "Where is my daughter and Tenten?"
To his surprise the man laughed at him like some deranged felon, "There is no point in telling you. By now you have already killed that foolish clan head of ours and you will be executed for your crimes along with that whore you bed". Due to his position he did not notice the group standing at the hole that Naruto had made. At the same time neither did Naruto as his eyes flashed red with anger. "They are far out of your reach and the demon spawn is likely already dead. As soon as the woman gives birth she will die as well while we wait to see if the child bears the Byakugan. Even if I die the Hyuga will be stronger for it as we will survive unattested, no one will believe the likes of a demon murderer".
Naruto started to raise his foot and position it above his head to finish the job, "I'm sure I would believe him," a voice declared from behind him. The other elders took note of the newcomers and paled at what they saw. Naruto heard what was said but blanked for a moment when his eyes landed on Hiashi. Faster than anyone could track Naruto and the clan head disappeared out of the hole.
"Where is she!?" Naruto shouted while he held Hiashi on the ground by the throat, his other arm raised above him with a Rasengan in hand. His whole body began to shudder when he felt a hand lay upon his shoulder with tender care. Naruto looked up into the eyes of his wife as she shook her head and his muscles eased and the swirling vortex of chakra dissipated. Slowly with some trepidation he released his father-in-law and began to stand.
"He doesn't know Naruto-kun," Hinata stated, "about any of this".
Tears started to form around his eyes as he looked at his wife once again, "I can't pin-point them Hinata-chan. They are too far away." He wrapped her in a hug.
There was a sound of coughing from next to them as Hiashi began to stand. While rubbing his bruised throat he attempted to speak, "I may know where they are Naruto".
The couple's eyes locked onto him, "Where father, where could they have taken Kushina-chan?"
"The clan owns a lumber area far to the north of the village, about thirty miles. It was used in the villages reconstruction, but was shut down after the efforts were completed and to allow the forest to come back for future use at a later time".
Naruto turned to leave with the new information; it would explain why he was unable to sense his daughter at that distance. "Hinata-chan, I'm going to bring our daughter home". He stopped momentarily as if he was pondering a great question. "Hiashi," he waited to make sure he had the man's attention, "Thank you, but after this is over with I will have my retribution on the Hyuga clan".
Hiashi stood there rooted to the spot as he heard those words. He just nearly lost his life to his daughter's husband and he knew he couldn't have prevented it. Compound this with the attempted coup within the clan to have not only him killed, but more than likely his whole family; it was enough to make a man cower at the prospects of what life was to throw at him next. Unfortunately for him he knew whatever came next was going to be worse if he was to live through it, the blonde kage that was walking away had dubbed it so, and he knew that his words were as good as gold.
Abandoned Lumber Mill
Naruto stood just on the outskirts of the clearing, inside the tree line. Concentrating on the building he could clearly make out the seals that both Kushina and Tenten had on their person. Both were next to each other and it was likely that Tenten was holding his daughter as a way to keep them both comforted. Unsurprisingly, Neji landed next to the man and stared at the building as well.
His Byakugan actively scanning the inside of the facility with the hope to glimpse his own wife he asked, "Are they in there?"
Naruto nodded, "They still have the seals on them."
"I cannot see them anywhere inside," Neji returned.
"They also have the ocular suppression seals as well," Naruto informed.
Not one to question his best friend's knowledge of seals he accepted the explanation. "Where are they located?"
"Underneath the complex. How many are inside?" the blonde decided he needed some answers of his own.
"Twenty-two, five located on the bottom level with them," figuring only the bottom floor was all the necessary information Naruto needed. "They know we are out here, but they do not know where we are. They have taken precautions and defensive positions". The blonde nodded in response. "What is your plan?"
Naruto made a single clone and it started walking toward the front of the building. "Classic Naruto Uzumaki battle strategy," was all he said.
"You mean blow shit up and don't bother asking questions," Neji face palmed. It wasn't that he thought Tenten or Kushina could get hurt, his friend would never allow that to happen, but the toll it would take on his friend would be enormous. Naruto would regret the assailant's deaths, but he would have done the same if he held the power the blonde did.
With a scowl on the Uzukage's face he nodded, "Just let me know when the ones in the basement are all facing south". He then closed his eyes and concentrated on the seals of the two people he was going to save and waited for the word.
Neji turned his attention back to the front of the building just as an explosion blew a large hole in the south wall they were facing. From his distance he could clearly see that those few that were nearest the blast were knocked back while others began to regain their bearing to mount a counter assault. As if on cue the five in the basement all turned to the south wall to inspect the pathway that led down to them. "NOW!" Neji yelled out.
In a bright flash Naruto disappeared from sight.
Abandoned Lumber Mill Basement
In a corner of the basement near a table stood Tenten holding Kushina with a grip that told all those who looked that way that they would have to pry her dead hands off the child if they wanted it. An explosion rocked the building, causing the earth to quake and the supports to groan under the assault of pressure. Holding Kushina tighter in the event that someone should try to grab them she prepared to defend herself. She breathed a sigh of relieve even though it had sounded as if a box of paper bombs went off, she knew help was here. When the guards that were detaining them in the underground area went to investigate the commotion she relaxed a little more that they had not yet resorted to strong arm hostage tactics as of yet.
When there was a bright yellow flash next to her, her muscles recoiled like a lightly wound spring to strike at whatever came into range. What she didn't expect was to hit something that had the resistance of a steel wall although the person obviously tried to cushion the impact to lessen the damage. Any harder and she would have broken her hand. She then looked at the solid object and stared into steel blue eyes that seemed as hard as what her hand connected to. Before she could consider it any more the man wrapped her and the baby in his arms and a second bright flash followed.
Back With Neji
Just moments after Naruto disappeared there was another flash and out of the light stumbled his wife who was holding his niece in her arms. Quickly he grabbed her to help support her and the baby. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Naruto walk toward the building ten feet and then stop. Two clones came into existence as if his will alone made it so and they started to mold chakra into the originals right hand. This surprised Neji dearly as he had not seen Naruto use this method of Rasengan creation in quite some time.
He was brought out of his dwelling as the blonde turned his head toward him and spoke, "Run".
If it was anyone else, Neji would have scoffed at the idea. But when it came down to Naruto and a ninjutsu, he took every word with warning. It was why Naruto had relied so much on fuinjutsu now, the damage was usually smaller and the effects were typically non-lethal. And the look of whatever Naruto was now holding in his hand looked as if no distance was safe. With little prodding, he and Tenten moved back in the direction of the village as quickly as they could.
Naruto stood there while he waited for the others to get to a safe distance. What he held in his hand was not a typical Rasengan, nor his Rasenshuriken variant, but something new he had been working on. If you could peer directly at it, it looked as if he had captured a tornado made of pure fire and put it in the center of his Rasenshuriken. Once he was sure they were far enough away from the area effect he reeled the technique, "Shakuton: Rasenshuriken," then he launched it forward. It gave an eerie whistling sound as it approached its target. Just as it impacted Naruto caught the last possible glimpse of the building before it erupted into a blaze of wind and fire, the likes of which no one could live through. If anyone was to return to search for the bodies of those inflicted by the technique it is likely that they would come across mummified remains amongst the ash from the building that is sure to bury them.
As the light of the impact grew a single flash could be seen before the creator of the technique disappeared from view.
Neji And Tenten
Neji and Tenten were running as fast as they dared, trying not to jostle Kushina too much. When all at once the forest around them became still and quiet. Causing the two to abruptly come to a stop they didn't have enough time to ponder the development when without looking behind them they noticed their shadows being cast a great distance in front of them. They new that the bright light cast behind them was the result of one of Naruto's most destructive jutsu's, ones he usually practiced over the water in Uzu.
The two stiffened as they felt a hand land on each of their shoulders. Before both knew what had happened, but had a good guess, they were suddenly enveloped in a familiar light.
Naruto's Apartment
A bright flash of light enveloped the main living area of the apartment, when it faded away it left three people standing there in the center of the room while one of them held the baby in her arms. "Tenten, if you wouldn't mind staying here with Kushina until I come back," the blonde stated more than asked.
After gathering her senses she nodded noticing Naruto's commanding tone. "Stay here and relax Ten-chan," her husband comforted her.
"Where are you going," she asked as she noticed Naruto head for the exit.
Neji was right on his heels, "To make sure that there are some Hyuga's left after Naruto is finished with them".
The Streets of Konoha
Neji was walking casually next to his blonde friend through the streets of Konoha. He was perplexed to say the least. Naruto had not said a word since he had left the apartment and was currently walking through the outer residential areas, an area that was away from the location he thought his friend would be speeding toward. Finally the silence was broken by a gruff voice, "Can you keep an eye on their location".
"Who's location?" Neji responded.
"Hinata, Tsunade, and your uncle," Naruto stated dryly.
It wasn't that he minded doing just that, he had planned on checking on his cousin anyways. But his friend next to him should have been able to do that just as well, probably even better when he was using sage mode. "Couldn't you just use sage mode to keep an eye on them".
It was then that the pale eyed man noticed his friend flex his right arm bringing to his attention the scorch marks on his clothing and the redness of the exposed skin. Shaking his head Naruto replied, "No. It is taking everything in me to control my anger. If I cannot control my emotions, sage mode cannot be achieved. As it is now, the angrier I get the easier it is to access Kurama's chakra, and until I can get a full grip on it I must try to limit its use to sudden bursts. The last thing I want is a repeat of what happened to Hinata-chan during the fight in Uzu".
Neji nodded in realization, he had forgotten about what had happened to his cousin. It was the only time she ever experienced the side effects of the demonic chakra coursing through her system in such a way. Even now his friend was trying to save them from danger that may be brought about should his emotions run wild. Anytime Naruto accessed the Kyubi's chakra before he always had complete awareness of it and it was never in a situation such as the one that they were currently facing. "So a new jutsu?" he inquired.
Lifting up his hand to look at the healing damage there was a grimace on Naruto's face as he chuckled. "Yeah, something I have been working on. I completed my father's jutsu, it was supposed to be the pinnacle of shape and nature manipulation, but its versatility has still been largely unexplored. I started to add different natures to it slowly. I started just by changing the base nature but I found that I wasn't able to throw it like I could normally do with the Rasenshuriken. So I started to just add the other elements to my typical wind nature. That was the result of mixing fire with it as well".
"You never cease to amaze me Uzumaki. Only you would take the perfect jutsu and make it more devastating," Neji returned with a smile. Neji then faltered as he noticed the scowl cross the blonde's face again, "They deserved what they got. You can't beat yourself up over it".
Trying to accept it himself he nodded just the same, "I know. They had every intention of killing us if we were to step through those doors ourselves. From what my clone witnessed they would have likely killed your wife and my daughter as well if I pressed further into the building. What bothers me so much was that after all the time that has passed some people have never changed their minds about who I am and what I stand for". He sighed in exasperation, "I just had higher hopes for my wife's clan".
Thickly swallowing with anticipation of what his friend planned for the fate of the Hyuga Clan. Trying to mitigate some of the damage that could be caused he thought quickly, "It is not the entire clan Naruto. It is just those stuffy old codgers who are too old to change their ways or allow an iota of power to slip through their fingers".
"I know Neji, but that is why the Hyuga as a clan must be destroyed. To wait for a new generation to change it from the inside will likely cause more damage than good during the process. It will also give the older generation more opportunity to infect the new one with their poisonous hate". Looking at his hand again he could see and feel all the damage from the technique he used healing and then looked at his friend. "I will do what I said, and keep my promise that I made to you and Hinata all those years ago. The problem is the how".
Neji remained silent thinking on his friend's words as they walked. The only other words spoken between the two were the updated locations of the people they needed to see when Naruto was ready to confront the problem.
Hokage Tower
Tsunade, Kakashi, Hinata, and Hiashi were all in the Hokage office waiting on pins and needles for any new developments or news of when Naruto would return. Not many words were said as time passed, and the hours since Naruto had left has only increased the tension.
In the time following the Usukage's departure the Hyuga elder council had been rounded up and were currently being interrogated while searching for their supporters. It had become a witch hunt and the clan secrets came pouring out as more and more people were incarcerated.
Hinata sat on the couch in the office during the entire wait trying to control the influx of emotions she was picking up through her link with her husband. Anger being the most prominent one, along with the feeling of the Kyubi's chakra trying to leak through her system. After some time the anger subsided and she was granted with a small amount of relief knowing that Naruto was ok as the connection was still strong.
An ANBU operative appeared in the office bringing a sense of shock and anticipation to the small group. "Hokage-sama, the Uzukage is currently in the council chambers and requesting your presence immediately".
"I'm on my way," Tsunade answered.
"He is also requesting that Hiashi Hyuga be brought before him as well," the ANBU informed.
Although most couldn't tell, Hiashi swallowed the lump that had quickly developed in his throat at the mention of his name, readying himself for what must be done to save his family and clan. With a nod Tsunade motioned for the others to follow as well and dismissed the agent to return to duties.
As they neared the doors to the council chambers Hinata ran through to her husband, hoping to find their daughter and reassure her safety. As she reached Naruto and noticed no child in his arms tears started to well in her eyes. Then she noticed the small smile and reassurance in his blue eyes that told her all was well with Kushina. She then turned as the others in the group made their way to their seats in the room and Hiashi opted to stand in the center hoping to avoid the catastrophe that was sure to take place.
Before Hiashi was able to speak Naruto started first, "Hiashi…"
"Naruto," Tsunade interrupted. He turned his head to her and peered into her eyes, it was all too clear to her that she was no longer talking to Naruto Uzumaki, the fun loving kid. Instead, standing before her was the Uzukage and father of a family that was just attacked on a personal and deep level. She chose to remain silent and wait for the developments to unfold before she would exert any force to control the situation.
Naruto turned his attention back to Hiashi, "Your clan has created a great atrocity not only against me, but my family, clan, and village. As a group they attacked me, kidnapped my daughter and heir, attacked and beat a father whose daughter was currently under my protection until I released her back to the village of Konoha, and to top it all off were conspiring to commit the murder of a child and said woman under my protection." Naruto paused to calm himself down at what could have been.
Hiashi readied himself and as regally as possible lowered himself to his knees in front of everyone. "Naruto Uzumaki, Uzukage-dono, I have no excuse for what has transpired or the transgressions against you and your family. As clan head it was my duty and obligation to keep tabs on the workings of my council and I failed in my duties." Without regret he lifted his head high steeling his nerves for the next declaration he was to make. "I plead to you now, if there is blood to be had to atone for our crimes against you, please let it be with my life and leave those that are innocent within my clan in peace."
Naruto quickly stood and started to make his way toward the kneeling man. Hiashi was waiting for the inevitable loss of his life as the young blonde stood before him. "It is well within my right to take your life and ask for the destruction of the clan as a whole. What you offer is a pittance. The reparations I could seek from your clan and Konoha as a whole would not even be a drop in the bucket to quell the rage that I felt while my daughter and god-daughter were at the mercy of your kinsmen. The irreparable damage that would have likely fallen should harm had come to them is immeasurable". Naruto shook his head to dispel those images. "Tell me Hiashi, about your daughter".
Hiashi stared blankly at the man before his gaze turned to his daughter. Why would a man ask the father of the woman he is married to about his own daughter? Then it dawned on him, his second child and daughter. Panic raced through his mind at the question. It was not customary anymore, but not unheard of either. A man taking multiple wives was possible but it was never usually done with sisters. When Hiashi believed Hinata had died, Hanabi was quickly being groomed to take his place when he felt she was ready for the position. If Naruto was to take her then the clan would be left without an heir to the head position and the clan would likely be thrown into a civil war of sorts in a battle for power. Still gazing at Hinata he could see the nervousness and trepidation in her eyes and possibilities of what her husband was asking. Even Neji stiffened at his realization.
Finding his voice, although with some difficulty, "Y-you can't take Hanabi, please, please don't take her," he stammered out.
Naruto looked at the man confused before it dawned on him at the insinuation. "N-no, not that. Hinata-chan is more than enough for me," he then blushed at what he said and how it could be taken. He looked back at her to see the crimson color to her face. Turning back to the man he clarified, "How ready is your daughter to take over your duties?"
Hiashi visibly relaxed, "She is very talented and has been taught nearly everything I know, but currently she lacks experience in leading the clan or dealing with other organizations in a beneficial way for the clan".
Naruto nodded. "Hiashi, please stand. As the offended head of the clan I hereby claim my right to pass judgment upon you and the Hyuga clan. On your honor, you will exert a self-imposed exile from the village of Konoha."
"You cannot do that," Tsunade bellowed.
"I can and I will Hokage-dono," Naruto turned to her with a hardened stare. "In exchange of my reparations of the Hyuga clan, Konoha will face no consequences for their actions".
"Aren't you being a little harsh Naruto," Kakashi asked.
"Not as harsh as I could be," he turned back to Hiashi. "You will relinquish your name as Hyuga".
Hiashi bowed to Naruto, "As soon as my daughter completes her training duties as clan head, upon my honor I will comply with your request".
Shaking his head in return Naruto clarified, "This is effective immediately. Until Hanabi-chan is capable of handling diplomatic matters a mentor of my choosing will take the spot as clan head to teach her and oversee the clan affairs".
"But they will have no knowledge of the inner working of the Hyuga clan. It would likely cause more turmoil than good, with the elders council deposed, the Hyuga will suffer greatly without someone familiar with our customs," Hiashi clarified.
A smile spread across the blonde's face, "Oh who I choose knows all the inner workings of the Hyuga and their customs. As an added bonus they have more than enough experience dealing with foreign affairs. When I left Tenten's family shop I vowed to destroy the Hyuga clan, and I never go back on my word. But it does not mean that the Hyuga cannot rebuild into something better".
Tsunade breathed a sigh of relief at the knowledge that Naruto was not seeking blood for what happened and that the village of Konoha would still be able to house a clan such as the Hyuga. "Neji!" Naruto bellowed.
"Yes Uzukage-dono," Neji answered as he stepped to his friend's side.
"From this point on I relinquish you of your duties in Uzu and back to the village of Konoha. Here you will take over duties as clan head for your clan and take Hanabi-chan under your wing until she is ready to take the reins from you. I expect a final result in no less than one year". Naruto turned to look at the shocked pale eyes of the man next to him with a grin.
Neji for his part stood there in utter amazement as to what had just been handed to him. He went from being a branch member of his clan, destined for servitude within the clan to clan head in just a moment's notice. Not only was he just given the position but one that had the clan starting with a clean slate. Due to the actions of a few within the clan there would be no contest for power, no extreme traditionalist to oppose the changes the clan had needed for decades to adapt to the world they were currently living in. Best of all it would keep his wife and future child safe from their clutches. "Yes, Uzukage-dono," he bowed. He greatly respected the man before, but now he had an overwhelming sense of pride for the man he had thought of as family.
Hinata ran up behind Naruto and embraced him. "As the Uzukage and a friend I wish to hereby extend my happiness to you, your clan, and new family by offering you one wish. I will do whatever is in my power as a gift in celebration to new times and great bonds. Take your time and think it over carefully. Just let me know when you wish to make a request".
"With all due respects Uzukage-dono, I will ask for it now. My wish is the removal of the caged-bird seal from all members in the clan so they may be united as a single family on equal terms. As my most precious friend had taught me some time ago, everyone should be equal and treated just as valuable as the next and with the new age of the Hyuga, I wish to model it after his teachings".
Naruto smiled in return, "As you wish Neji. I hope that tomorrow will be soon enough for the request. I wish to spend what is left of today with my family". Neji nodded in response. "Now if you will excuse me, I wish to take my wife and retrieve my daughter. Tsunade-baachan, I'm sure you have some damage control over recent events". He took Hinata by the arm and started to walk toward the exit. He stopped short when he heard the lost tone in a man's voice.
"Tsunade-sama, where will I go?" the former head of the Hyuga clan just asked.
Naruto turned to look at the man that was now standing; he was facing his former village leader, desperation in his pale eyes. A look into the blonde woman's eyes he knew she didn't have the answers. He then looked into his wife's own pale eyes and smiled. "Hiashi," Naruto waited until he had the man's attention. "I wouldn't take advice from her. You would likely end up travelling from town to town gambling away any money you had while being too drunk to remember the day before". Another smile graced his lips at the thought that crossed his mind. "There is plenty of room at the Uzumaki compound in Uzushiogakure, a whole empty house to be exact. What better way to enjoy retirement than to spend your days being the father that you were meant to be, and seeing your grandchild and possible future grandchildren grow?"
Hiashi stared at him dumbly as a small smile crept up his face. With a nod he bowed his head to the Hokage and started back to the Hyuga compound to collect the things he would need to make the transition. He would stay within the village until his daughter and son-in-law decided to leave. With the weight of running the Hyuga clan removed from his shoulders, and a sound mind knowing that Neji was more than capable in assisting his youngest daughter take the position, he finally felt his age. He knew it was time to let it all go, as he should have long ago. Now he could finally relax and do what he always wanted to do, not for the clan but himself, to be the family man his wife had wanted him to be.