Hinata leaned against the side of the Academy and waited for Naruto to arrive. She had not slept well due to her desperation to simply have him listen to her concerns. Naruto's willingness to listen to Hinata's concerns and worries was a wonderful discovery. Hinata, somewhat foolishly, closed her eyes to calm herself.
"Hey, Hinata-chan, you okay?" Naruto asked with a bit of concern. Hinata's eyes snapped open, and she nodded.
'I can't believe I just dozed off like that,' Hinata berated herself. "I'm just tired, Naruto-kun. F-father's training was intense…and I did not sleep well."
"Oh…" Naruto nodded. "We have a bunch of time before class starts. You can pour your heart out to me."
Hinata blushed at Naruto's insinuation. "O-okay," Hinata said quietly. The combination of fatigue and her crush on Naruto flaring up robbed her of her voice. A bolt of energy worked its way through her body as Naruto took her hand and led her off to the side. The couple sat down on a bench. Naruto didn't speak but made a Shadow Clone. The Clone sped off, and Hinata was a bit confused.
Naruto saw the confusion on her face and smiled. "Don't worry about it. The important thing is us working out whatever is wrong," Naruto said warmly.
"Well…" Hinata started, but swallowed back her words. She was trying to fight back her heart-rate. Hinata wasn't sure how to approach the situation in her Clan. Then, there was the fact that Naruto hadn't let go of her hand. "My…father was…subtle in a discussion we had about the 'social' expectations of my position."
"He considers me an uncultured barbarian and not worthy of your company, eh?" Naruto asked.
"Well…father didn't put it like that…" Hinata said quietly. She was worried about how she could continue her relationship with Naruto without angering her father.
"I say we don't have anything to worry about," Naruto stated definitively.
"What?" Hinata asked in shock. 'How can Naruto be so calm about this?'
Naruto grinned and leaned against the wall. Before anyone could speak, the Shadow Clone returned with an order of tea. The Clone handed Hinata and the original Naruto a cup before dispelling.
"Can't have you falling asleep in class. There are only two people Iruka-sensei won't get annoyed at for dozing off, and you aren't one of them. But, as I was saying, we don't have anything to worry about. We'll be on the same squad soon and we'll have an official, Hokage-sanctioned, reason to be with each other," Naruto explained.
Hinata smiled as she sipped at her tea. The solution had a simple elegance that she couldn't deny. Naruto continually mentioned that the Hokage favored Naruto and Hinata's ploy to get on the same team. The odds of the Sandaime separating them were extremely low.
"I…I'm sorry, Naruto-kun. It, it's just that I've been working so hard to achieve recognition from both you and father…and when he hinted I might have to choose, I guess I panicked a bit," Hinata confessed.
"Can't blame you. We've been working really hard to make this…" Naruto squeezed Hinata's hand to emphasize his point. "work. We'll face anything that comes our way, together."
"R-right!" Hinata felt her confidence return. She had worked herself into a panic worrying about her father's words. "My training session with father wasn't all bad."
Naruto beamed. "Details! I need details!"
"Well, I spared with Kazue-san and won. Father was very impressed by my performance. He was pleased that I am no longer hesitating," Hinata mentioned before giving a brief recount of the spar. She concluded by revealing how her father confirmed her position as heiress. "After that, father told me to pick my Cadet Attendant carefully. But…I don't like that tradition. It's just a polite way of saying personal slave."
"Isn't the person you pick protected from all the crap Branch members are faced with?" Naruto asked.
"I…would still feel like a hypocrite if I chose Kazue-san as an Attendant," Hinata chewed over her thoughts.
"So, you are thinking about taking a Branch attendant?" Naruto questioned.
"I-I'd take the entire Branch family to protect them if I knew it was possible. No one should be punished, sacrificed or enslaved because of when they were born and because of a seal," Hinata said with undeniable determination.
Hinata's conviction shook Naruto. He had truly begun to like Hinata in the time they had spent together. Naruto also knew that the growth of his feelings had been accelerated by Namikaze's growing influence.
'No, influence isn't the right word…' Naruto thought to himself. 'It's more like…it's more like Namikaze's memories and feelings are…filling in the blanks…no,' Naruto was confused. He knew exactly the feelings he was trying to convey, but he couldn't put words to them.
Not even to himself.
"Hinata-chan…there's something I need to tell you…but not right now. It will take a long time to explain and I know you'll probably have a ton of questions," Naruto partially explained. There was a nervousness, and vulnerability, that Hinata couldn't fail to notice in Naruto's tone.
"When?" Hinata asked gently.
"I…I will come to you," Naruto revealed.
"I will wait for you," Hinata said and took Naruto's hand in her own.
In the corner of Naruto's mind, the corner he realized was slowly assimilating Namikaze's being, he heard a distant Hinata whisper 'until the stars died'.
A masked figure sat on a long forgotten throne and grimaced behind his mask. The man had many aliases, but at his core he was No One. The man, or instrument as he sometimes preferred to think of himself, had encountered a situation out of the scope of his plans; outside of the scope of his purpose. No One had always anticipated the possibility of disagreement or even dissention from Nagato. It was to be expected due to the conflicting nature of Nagato and No One's ultimate ambitions.
But outright rebellion? That possibility had until recently been relegated to the realm of the absurd.
'It may have once been absurd, but it is clear Nagato has changed. He will no doubt make his move to eliminate me soon. The potential damage to the Tsuki no Me cannot be ignored. The Plan still requires Nagato to synchronize with the Gedō Mazō. None of the…alternatives are prepared yet,' the figure contemplated the situation.
The organization would no doubt fracture when Nagato made his move. Konan would undoubtedly side with her lifelong comrade. The two had been family in all but blood for decades. There was likely only a single secret that existed between the pair.
The source of Nagato's Rinnegan.
'How would dear Konan react if she knew that Nagato's greatest strength was a gift of Uchiha Madara?'
Itachi would likely side with Nagato. Actually, there was no doubt where Itachi's decision would fall. Itachi viewed No One, or Uchiha Madara as the 'prodigy' believed the masked man to be, as a dire threat to his beloved brother. Itachi and No One both saw the essence of Uchiha Madara in young Sasuke. The thought of Sasuke succumbing to the 'despotism' of his ancestor terrified Itachi more than anything. No One knew that Itachi's actions and anti-Uchiha rants prior to the massacre had been an attempt to turn Sasuke away from the Uchiha's legacy of bloodshed and power. It was Itachi's fervent hope that Sasuke would reject the Curse of Hatred.
'And like all hope in this meaningless world, it is destined to be crushed,' No One growled.
The others were more of a toss-up. No One knew that Hidan and Kakuzu were in Akatsuki so that Nagato could 'control' and 'direct' their murderous impulses towards 'productive' means. Hidan openly despised Nagato and only the god-like power of the Rinnegan kept the Jashinist from rebellion. Kakuzu on the other hand was ruled by money.
'He will be the easiest to control. Money is no object and will be rendered meaningless once the world slumbers peacefully under the Infinite Tsukuyomi,' No One thought.
Zetsu was also firmly in No One's camp. In fact, Zetsu had been one of the first to embrace the goal of the Tsuki no Me. Kisame had also invested fully in the Tsuki no Me. His betrayal was even more deeply rooted in the realm of the absurd than Nagato's open rebellion had been.
'The only wild cards are Deidara and Sasori. They have always been the least invested in the visions of Akatsuki…'
A writhing and organic sound drew No One's attention to the base of the dais.
"Why have you summoned us? We have not yet completed our observation of the Nanabi," Black Zetsu questioned.
"I have a new mission for you. You will infiltrate Konoha," No One ordered.
"Konoha has many tasty looking people. Will we get a meal?" White Zetsu added another question.
"We are not prepared to engage Konoha at this time. Rest assured, we will grind that Senju pit into dust soon," No One snarled.
"Then why send us?" Black Zetsu questioned again.
"You are to ensure Uchiha Sasuke receives his true inheritance…the will of Uchiha Madara!"
Tsunade sat in Magister Sho's luxurious chair as she counted all the ryō notes she had 'liberated' from the man's safe. Shizune sat quietly off to the side. Her master's focus on the money would normally annoy her greatly. However, Shizune could see that Tsunade was stalling for time so that she could gather her thoughts.
"Well, now that we've taken care of the important things," Tsunade said as she stuffed the money into one of her bags. "I'm sure you'll be happy to explain the minor detail of how my grandfather's mortal enemy, whom Grandpa killed at the Valley of the End, is supposedly still alive and doing what he does best?"
"Before I explain, I have one question," Namikaze said as he sat down across from Tsunade. It was an instinctive thing. Namikaze was falling into the familiar routines he had almost taken for granted during his days as Naruto.
"I might answer," Tsunade said idly.
"Everyone knows you're Senju, so what would you consider Madara 'doing what he does best' to be?"
"Being an utter bastard! Moving on!" Tsunade snapped.
"Right, right! No need for a finger-flick!" Naruto said nervously. 'Naruto? I…I haven't thought of myself as Naruto since…I, since Hinata-chan died…'
"Do…do you remember the organization Orochimaru defected to? Akatsuki?" Namikaze, he was Namikaze now, asked as a preamble. Tsunade nodded. "Madara has been pulling the strings of that organization. He corrupted what originally was an organization aimed at freeing Ame from Hanzo's tyranny into something…else. Nagato, the leader of Akatsuki seeks to destroy Madara and remove his influence from Akatsuki. He knows what will happen if Madara can make that organization truly into his instrument."
"That sounds like something Madara would attempt, especially without the Uchiha at his beck and call. But it's too far-fetched. My grandfather killed Madara," Tsunade snapped. The thought of Madara being alive...was almost too horrible to contemplate. Uchiha Madara lived for war. If the Uchiha hadn't been as weary from the wars as the Senju, Madara never would have relented. If Madara was still alive, he would no doubt be gearing up for another war. It was in his very blood.
But Madara was dead. He had to be dead.
Namikaze pulled out the scroll Nagato had used to contact him during the recruitment of Haku and Zabuza. He wasn't sure if this would work, but he had to try. Namikaze channeled a bit of chakra into the seal. The astral projection of Nagato's Deva Path, of Yahiko, appeared. Tsunade and Shizune gasped in shock.
'The Rinnegan!' Both women thought in shock and awe.
"Is there something you require, my brother apprentice?" Nagato spoke through his Deva Path.
"Baa-chan requires further proof that Madara is alive," Namikaze pointed out. Tsunade felt a flash of annoyance at the nickname this young man had given her.
'But there's something in this Namikaze's tone…it's almost like he truly believes I'm his grandmother. Who are you, Namikaze?' Tsunade thought.
"It is good to see you well, Tsunade of the Sannin," Nagato greeted in Yahiko's voice.
"I don't think I've ever met anyone with the Rinnegan," Tsunade was very suspicious of everything in this situation. The only thing preventing her from giving the signal to Shizune to start fighting their way out was how relaxed and happy Namikaze was in their presence. Generally, men were drawn to her for her beauty. Instead, Namikaze was behaving as if he was in the midst of a family reunion. It made the situation very strange, and that didn't even take the astral projection of a man with the Rinnegan into account.
"We met…years ago. My friends and I were merely children. I believe 'I' approached you all and begged for food. Jiraiya-sensei gave us some crackers. Orochimaru, however, suggested that you all kill us to 'save us' from the cruelties of the world," Nagato explained.
"You…you are one of the Ame Orphans! I, I remember now," Tsunade breathed.
"Who I was is not important now. The return of Uchiha Madara is what is important. Namikaze and I are gathering allies to prevent his goals from coming to fruition," Pain continued to explain.
"Madara's goals were always war and domination, weren't they?" Shizune spoke without realizing it.
"Domination…" Pain breathed. Shizune gasped as she finally realized she had spoken. "Madara's plans go far deeper than mere domination."
Namikaze shuddered as he recalled the 'Infinite Tsukuyomi' Nagato-nii had outlined in the scroll his summoned creature had delivered. "He seeks to place the entire world under a genjutsu…Madara wants nothing less than to rob us of our free-will."
'That couldn't be possible. Madara was never nihilistic, at least, not on that level,' Tsunade thought in a near-panic. "I'll need more proof than you've given me."
"Will you take the word of the Toads?" Namikaze asked.
"And how do you know about the Toads? Minato?" Shizune whispered the question. Tsunade was stunned by the young man's statement.
"I am my father's son."
Tsunade felt her entire world grow numb. "I…I had thought Kushina miscarried. Mikoto had been so devastated in her letter."
"Why would Uchiha Mikoto lie about her best friend's pregnancy?" Shizune questioned.
"There's only one person alive who we can trust to answer that," Nagato answered. Namikaze had heard the name Kushina and instinctively recognized the name of his mother. He sat silently as he focused intently on a name he had longed to learn since childhood.
"Who?" Shizune knew she had to keep the conversation alive. Tsunade needed this information.
"Uchiha Itachi."
Naruto grinned as he hit the bull's-eye with his final kunai. His aim had really improved since he had trained with Sasuke.
"Your accuracy has improved. I wonder what you could achieve if you actually applied yourself in other areas," Mizuki said in an overly friendly tone. Naruto flashed a broad grin. It was exaggerated because Naruto didn't think it would be a good idea to scowl at one of his teachers. He had heard a hint of derision in his teacher's voice. Ever since Namikaze had revealed the ugly truth of the world, Naruto had been looking 'underneath the underneath'.
Naruto really didn't get what 'underneath the underneath' meant, but he had a vague idea. Namikaze had also mentioned how valuable a skill it was for a shinobi.
Mizuki shook his head at Naruto's antics and walked away. Naruto's grin morphed from the exaggerated smile to a softer, more natural grin.
"Mizuki's right, you know," Sasuke spoke from his usual spot away from the crowd. He was sitting with his hands interlocked in front of his face.
"What are you talking about?" Naruto asked. Sasuke's 'outburst' had drawn the attention of several of Naruto's classmates. Naruto noticed Hinata flash him a concerned look. He stretched a bit to disguise the thumbs-up he gave to Hinata.
"Your skills have been improving rapidly. You're a quick learner. I've seen that myself when we trained together," Sasuke said with a hint of admiration.
The class was stunned. After all, why would the genius Uchiha train with the class's dead-last? A second thought quickly formed in almost everyone's mind. Why was the heiress of the Hyūga Clan seen with Naruto so much recently? There were several old rumors she had some kind of crush on Naruto, but most of those had been brushed off. Almost everyone had come to believe the rumors had been created by a classmate jealous of Hinata's privileged position. What better way to embarrass the heiress of Konoha's most cultured clan than to insinuate some kind of crush on Konoha's social pariah?
"Well, thanks," Naruto beamed.
Sasuke let an amused grunt slip. "You're obviously planning something. It's not a prank; I can tell that much, but what is it?"
"You aren't planning on losing 'Rookie of the Year' status are you?" Naruto responded to Sasuke's question with one of his own.
"Of course not," Sasuke was intrigued and allowed his tone to reflect that.
"Then you'll find out," Naruto replied with a smirk. Sasuke returned it. He had really underestimated Naruto. Sasuke wouldn't make that mistake again. The more he had gotten to know Naruto, the more determined Sasuke was to be on Naruto's team. It was obvious that Naruto knew the truth of the world the Academy students were preparing to enter. Sasuke was struck suddenly by Naruto's words.
'Why would my status as Rookie of the Year matter to Naruto? Unless…Naruto has figured out the method behind team selections! Yes, that is it! Now, I understand why Hinata has been pushing herself to surpass Sakura. Naruto has remained 'dead last' despite showing how naturally talented he is. As close as he has been to Hinata recently…' Sasuke couldn't believe that Naruto could be so devious.
"I'm shocked that someone I had written off as a 'dropout' has figured this all out," Sasuke said without openly revealing anything. Naruto obviously was trying to keep his discovery quiet.
"I'm shocked that someone I had thought of as a 'genius' took so long to figure it out," Naruto taunted Sasuke, but the taunt was clearly friendly. Iruka and Mizuki called an end to the class after Shino completed his throws. The order had been chosen at random, which Naruto thought was a bit odd. Usually, Iruka-sensei was a stickler for order and protocol. Something was off, but Naruto couldn't put his finger on it. He pushed aside the thought as the class headed back inside. Mizuki-sensei had probably planned this lesson and not Iruka-sensei.
Naruto chewed over the thought and blanked out Mizuki's lecture on 'the physics of projectile weapons'.
'Honestly, when is something like that going to be useful?' Naruto asked himself before turning his thoughts to more important things. Namely, he was wondering if choosing to reveal the Kyūbi to Hinata was the best idea. Naruto quickly chased those thoughts away. He, Namikaze, had broken practically all the laws of time to save her. That had to be worth something.
Mizuki turned his back to write something on the blackboard. Hinata took the opportunity to ask Naruto if he was alright. Naruto simply gave Hinata a reassuring smile. The smile put Hinata at ease, but it was obvious she was still concerned.
"Naruto-kun…" Hinata said after Iruka dismissed the class. "I can tell how much what you want to tell me is weighing you down."
"It is pretty obvious, isn't it?" Naruto chuckled nervously.
"Your eyes tell the story, Naruto-kun," Hinata revealed.
'I wonder what my eyes will be like after I…fuse with Namikaze,' Naruto wondered. The entire process would never cease to disturb him, but Naruto refused to doubt in his own character. Namikaze was fusing with him. At the end of the process, the person who was created would be a new Naruto. He could not falter in this belief. He just couldn't.
"It's just the waiting that's driving me nuts. I'll need a while to psych myself up. Then, there's the fact that you've got to train with your dad and all," Naruto explained.
Hinata saw the determination and optimism she adored so much return. 'I guess I just need to continue to have faith in Naruto-kun.'
"Okay, Naruto-kun. H-how will you let me know when you are ready?" Hinata asked. A part of Hinata entertained the fantasy that Naruto wished to elope with her. Hinata quickly shook off that foolish fantasy. Eloping implied running away. She couldn't run away from her station and responsibilities, despite how romantic it would be to elope with Naruto. Hinata also knew Naruto would never give up on his dreams. Those dreams would be rendered impossible if the two of them left Konoha.
"I'll send a Shadow Clone to get you. That way, if we are about to get caught, the clone can dispel and you can come up with a really good excuse," Naruto explained.
"If you come at sundown or at night, I could use the excuse that I am training my Byakugan's night vision," Hinata thought out loud.
"Sounds like we've got a plan," Naruto smiled, but nodded in the direction of a small group of Hyūga. Hinata managed to whisper that they were all Cadets.
"Hinata-sama, we have been sent by Hiashi-sama to escort you home. Hiashi-sama is most eager to resume your training," Hoheto said with a bow.
"Of course, Hoheto-san," Hinata responded politely. She quickly turned to Naruto. "I will see you soon, Naruto-kun. Have a pleasant evening."
"Thanks, Hinata-chan. Good luck with your training," Naruto waved enthusiastically. As Hoheto and another Hyūga led Hinata away, Naruto noticed that Neji had hung back. "What the hell do you want?"
"To thank you," Neji forced out. Naruto's eyes widened in shock at Neji's statement. He would have never expected Neji to apologize for yesterday. Naruto had honestly expected Neji to try to fight him. "You made me realize just how severely my arrogance had blinded me."
"You're, uh, welcome?" Naruto responded, but had been caught horribly off balance.
"Uzumaki Naruto, you don't believe in Fate. Why?" Neji asked after a moment of awkward silence.
"I don't trust you enough to reveal that, Neji. I'm sorry," Neji obviously didn't like Naruto's answer, but he decided against pushing for answers.
"Trust must be earned," Neji said with a minimal growl.
"Then let's start earning that trust. Hinata-chan told me about the seal. It isn't just the Branch House that hates the seal. Hinata-chan hates it too," Naruto matched Neji's growl.
"She is Main Branch. Fate will dictate that she uphold that hateful practice," Neji lamented.
"You really don't know shit about her do you?" Naruto asked with a bite of anger. Neji glared at Naruto's outburst, but shook his head in the negative. "She is too kind to support that seal. Hinata-chan's too determined to be broken by 'Fate'."
"Uzumaki Naruto, you can't possibly know the weight being sealed places on your very soul. A seal is more than a mark. It is a daily reminder that you will always be an outsider. That Fate has given you gifts that are rendered meaningless because of the misfortune of the order in which you were born," Neji lectured.
"I know better than most…" Naruto trailed off. He was about to take a huge risk. "Tonight, ask Hinata-chan if you can accompany her on her night vision training."
"Why?"
"You'll see. Don't ask any more questions…consider this a trust-building exercise," Naruto said and Neji couldn't help but notice a determined glint in Naruto's eyes. Neji could only nod before the two young men parted ways.
'Who are you, Uzumaki Naruto? How can you defy Fate so easily?' Neji walked away as he pondered the enigma of Uzumaki Naruto.
Iruka and Mizuki were ushered into the Hokage's private office by Hiruzen's secretary. The Academy teachers could tell by the secretary's stance that she was an experienced ninja. Iruka would be willing to put money down that the woman was ANBU.
"Ah, Mizuki and Iruka, it is good to see you," the Hokage stated jovially. "Please, have a seat."
Iruka and Mizuki took the seats as soon as the Hokage made the offer. Hiruzen took several puffs on his pipe before he addressed the two teachers. "We are approaching the Academy graduation. I believe it is time to begin discussing team assignments."
"Hokage-sama, if I may?" Mizuki asked politely. The Hokage nodded curtly at the older Academy teacher. "I am not sure if we will have enough graduates to create full teams."
"You doubt Uzumaki Naruto will master the Bunshin in time to graduate," Hiruzen stated a fact. There was no hint of a question in the Hokage's voice. Iruka didn't hide his frown. He had watched Naruto training in some very advanced chakra control exercises, but the boy still couldn't create a single Clone.
"I am afraid Naruto has utterly failed to produce a single viable Bunshin," Mizuki interrupted Iruka's thoughts.
"He hasn't utterly failed! Naruto has made a great deal of progress since he started working after class with Hinata and Sasuke. It just hasn't been enough. I want Naruto to graduate more than anything, but I couldn't graduate him in good conscience right now. I am confident he'll be able to pass next exam. I…I just don't think he'll have the Bunshin down in time for this graduation," Iruka explained quickly.
The Hokage chuckled. "I do believe you both will be pleasantly surprised by Naruto's graduation examination. As such, we shall discuss team placement under the assumption that Naruto will pass."
Iruka and Mizuki knew that 'the assumption' was anything but a true assumption. The Professor clearly knew something that he wasn't willing to divulge to the teachers.
"Hokage-sama, will the tradition of teaming the Top Kunoichi with the Rookie of the Year and the lowest-scoring graduate continue?" Iruka asked. He was beginning to suspect the reason for this meeting. The Hokage was dictating his preferences for team assignments. Iruka saw Mizuki tense out of the corner of his eye.
'Why is Mizuki so worried about that tradition?' Iruka pondered.
"Hokage-sama…if we follow that tradition…" Mizuki ground out the words.
"I am aware of the arrangement that would be created," the Hokage said evenly. "I am also aware of a great deal. For example, I am aware that Naruto now has knowledge of his burden."
"He…Naruto knows?" Iruka whispered. "Why hasn't he said anything?"
"Naruto likely doesn't wish for the knowledge of the Fox to change any of his relationships. We must foster such connections. Naruto's bonds will ensure he is bonded to the village. This is why we must partner Naruto with his friends, Sasuke and Hinata," the Third Hokage explained sagely.
"My lord, should we put Naruto with two of Konoha's most promising shinobi?" Mizuki struggled to contain his horror at the thought of Naruto, whom he viewed as the Kyūbi reborn, with the hope of the Uchiha and the Hyūga heiress.
"Who better to put Naruto with?" Hiruzen countered. "I want to make this exceptionally clear. The information I am about to reveal is an A-rank secret. You are forbidden from revealing this information to anyone without my expressed written consent."
The Academy instructors nodded in agreement. They did not speak, because the Hokage had given no hints he wished for their input.
"Hinata's Byakugan will allow us to observe the condition of Naruto's seal discretely. Then there is the added security of the team's sensei and Sasuke."
"Who are you planning on having instruct Naruto?" Iruka asked.
"Hatake Kakashi," Hiruzen said as he tapped his pipe on the simple ashtray on his private desk.
Mizuki nodded. "A fine choice. The Hyūga will be pleased that such an elite Jonin is going to be training the heiress. Sasuke-sama will also benefit from the arrangement."
Iruka noticed a subtle shift in the Hokage's posture. 'He thinks Mizuki is being overconfident and he's amused by it. What is the Hokage getting at?'
"Hokage-sama, how will Sasuke and Kakashi-san add security for Naruto?" Iruka questioned.
The Hokage rose from his chair and began to pace. Mizuki immediately became nervous. Iruka, however, was utterly focused on getting his answer. "I am upgrading the secrecy of this meeting. It is now an S-class secret. You are aware of the provisions of S-class Secrets. The Fourth Hokage's seal prevents the Kyūbi's chakra and will from overwhelming Naruto in most circumstances. However, Naruto can access the Kyūbi's chakra when his life is in danger or his emotions are brought into line with those of the Kyūbi. The Sharingan has the ability to suppress the Demonic Chakra. If there were to be a situation where Naruto were to lose control, Kakashi, and Sasuke once he awakens the Sharingan, will be able to force Naruto back into control."
"There is more to this than simply the usefulness of Hinata and Sasuke's Dōjutsu, isn't there?" Iruka found his voice first. Mizuki was still processing the Hokage's revelation.
"Naruto will need true friendships if he is to reach his potential," the Hokage said in a placating tone. Iruka nodded. He was still a bit numb from everything he had heard. "Do either of you have any further concerns about Naruto, Sasuke and Hinata's team?"
Mizuki and Iruka shook their heads in the negative. The discussion shifted to other prospective teams. There was some heated discussion about which team Haruno Sakura would be placed on. However, the Hokage intervened and declared that these were merely preliminary discussions. The Jonin-sensei would have an opportunity to view the graduates' information.
'This meeting was never about all the graduates. It was only about the Fox. Why?' Mizuki nearly thought out loud.
"I thank you for your time. This was a very productive meeting," Sarutobi said in dismissal.
Iruka was the first to rise from his seat. "I am glad that I could be of assistance, Hokage-sama."
"Iruka, your connection with the students is incredibly valuable. I am proud that you do such a wonderful job instilling the Will of Fire in the future ninja of Konoha," Sarutobi said with complete sincerity. Iruka smiled as he bowed in thanks. The younger teacher left quickly.
Mizuki waited until the door shut before rising from his own seat. "Hokage-sama, may I ask a question?"
"Of course, Mizuki," Hiruzen grunted as he refilled his pipe.
"There is another reason for Naruto's team placement, isn't there?" Mizuki asked. He knew that the Hokage had spoken nothing but the truth during the meeting. The teacher also knew that the Hokage had been holding back a bit of the truth.
"Indeed," Hiruzen said before lighting his pipe. "Naruto's status as the Jinchūriki of the Kyūbi makes him a powerful asset to the village. By placing him on Team Seven, we are instilling in him a strong connection, and loyalty, to two of Konoha's most powerful clans. Team Seven will serve to bind Naruto to Konoha. Naruto is a wonderful child and fully loyal to the ideals of Konoha. However, we must take extra care to ensure that he remains bound to Konoha's service. Mizuki, I cannot reveal the details, but there are many forces both within and outside of Konoha's walls that seek to turn Naruto against us. We cannot allow this."
Mizuki was stunned. 'What had I been thinking? I may hate the Fox, but I had never thought along these lines! If it is true…' "Naruto is a weapon…" Mizuki breathed out his final thought.
"That is not entirely true," the Hokage said with an edge that sent a shiver down Mizuki's spine. "Though, it is not entirely false either."
"Very well, Hokage-sama," Mizuki said quietly. He would need time to think. The Hokage's words had shaken him slightly. Mizuki still hated the Fox with all of his being, but he had never considered using the Fox in that manner. "I shall take my leave then, Hokage-sama."
'The Fox will probably die on a mission, and his death will doubly benefit Konoha. Perhaps I should not have doubted the Hokage so completely,' Mizuki's thoughts wandered along the many possibilities.
Naruto stopped at a street corner and groaned. 'Why couldn't I have asked Hinata-chan to skip class with me? I could have just told her then and there and gotten through all this damn waiting!' He swallowed back a scream as his thoughts reached their next destination. 'And now I have to tell Neji!'
"Naruto."
The sound of Sasuke saying his named snapped him back to reality. "Huh? What is it?"
"How did you find out?" Sasuke asked. Naruto took a second to calm down and fall back on the excuse he had worked out with Yamato-sensei.
"Well, I was planning on pulling a prank to get out of that history quiz before the last graduation exam. I was trying to sneak into the Academy, but heard Mizuki-sensei and Iruka-sensei talking about something. I listened in and found out how some of teams were made," Naruto lied in explanation.
"I'm not surprised. You always seem to be sneaking around," Sasuke commented. He had a feeling Naruto wasn't telling the full truth. It was just that Naruto had told enough of the truth that Sasuke couldn't tell the truth from the half-truths and lies.
"So, what's up?" Naruto asked conversationally.
Sasuke blinked a few times. Once again, he had underestimated or misread Naruto. He had always thought Naruto viewed him as only a rival. Naruto being so friendly was not what Sasuke had ever expected. "Uh, I was going home to complete the assignment."
Naruto made a dismissive noise and waved off Sasuke. "And when will that come in handy in a few weeks? How will knowing the math behind your shuriken throw help you? I say just make sure you can hit the dang target. It'd be so much cooler if they could show us how to mix chakra in with our shuriken."
"That would be…cool," Sasuke admitted. "That sounds like an advanced technique, though."
"Probably is, but you gotta admit…it'd be really cool to show off," Naruto beamed.
"Yeah, sure," Sasuke agreed. "It might be something worth looking into."
"Hey, I'm going to grab some ramen from Ichiraku's. Want to tag along?" Naruto asked.
Sasuke shoved his hands into his pockets. Why should he? Then again, why shouldn't he? If he had learned anything from observing Naruto over the past few days, it was that the 'dead last' would suggest some kind of training half-way through the meal. It was an easy decision. Naruto had pushed Sasuke forward over the past few days. Sasuke had felt he was finally making progress towards catching Itachi. They were small steps, to be sure.
'But even small steps forward are better than none,' Sasuke declared to himself.
"Sure," Sasuke said with a shrug. The two made their way to the Ichiraku stand. Naruto spent a good portion of the walk complaining about how boring some of the academic lessons were. Sasuke, however, was observing the undisguised shock on the faces of civilians.
Sasuke ignored them. He had made the decision to associate with Naruto. Their approval, or lack thereof, would not sway his decision. Eventually, they reached a small food stand. Naruto happily pushed aside the curtain.
"Hey, Old Man Teuchi!" Naruto shouted. Sasuke was far more restrained in his entrance.
"Hello there, Naruto. It looks like this has been a week of firsts! You've already brought your girlfriend and now you're bringing one of your other friends to meet us," Teuchi greeted warmly. Sasuke watched the interaction cautiously. The last Uchiha noticed Naruto blush and look away. However, that was not the most striking observation for Sasuke. Teuchi had an uncanny resemblance to Sasuke's Uncle Teyaki. The two men had very similar personalities. Teuchi and Teyaki both were encouraging and jovial.
It was painful being around Teuchi. Sasuke wanted nothing more than to run away. The terrible void in Sasuke's heart was threatening to overcome the years of training.
"We'd like some ramen, Old Man!" Naruto said with a grin.
"I know you'd like the usual," Teuchi nodded and didn't bother to write down Naruto's order. "And what will you have?"
"Huh?" Sasuke asked dumbly. He had been so absorbed in his fond memories of Uncle Teyaki that he had nearly forgotten where he was. "A bowl of miso."
Teuchi nodded and retreated to the cooking area to prepare the meal. Naruto was chuckling to himself about something.
"What's so funny?" Sasuke asked.
"Oh, I was just thinking…I might be getting popular," Naruto grinned. "I mean, I've been hanging out with Hinata-chan and you a lot lately."
"To be popular you have to have more than two friends," Sasuke pointed out.
"I'm your friend?" Naruto asked excitedly. Sasuke realized what he said and also that his first instinct had been to deny any potential friendship. Sasuke didn't need friends. He needed the shortest path to reach Itachi. Though, Sasuke admitted, Naruto had helped him a great deal. Naruto had taught him the Tree climbing Exercise and was unafraid to challenge him in physical contests. Sasuke was getting stronger after working with Naruto.
"Sure, if that's what you want to call it," Sasuke said quickly. The Uchiha may have not been ready to embrace Naruto as a friend, but he wasn't opposed to the idea. "Speaking of what you want to call it…"
"What is it?" Naruto asked as he watched Teuchi make the ramen.
"So, how often do you bring Hinata here?" Sasuke went straight for the jugular. Naruto immediately started sputtering an explanation. Sasuke couldn't understand what Naruto was saying. The other boy was speaking so fast that any comprehension was impossible. Sasuke wryly noted that the only way Naruto would have been covered in a more vibrant shade of crimson is if he actually had gone for the jugular.
Naruto only paused to take a deep breath before continuing his incomprehensible explanation. Sasuke heard a strange noise in the midst of Naruto's rambling. It took him a moment to recognize his own laugh. It had been years.
'How can you forget your own laugh? Did Itachi destroy me so completely?' Sasuke thought. He looked up when he heard Teuchi clear his throat.
"You used the g-word didn't you?" the ramen cook asked between laughs. Sasuke forced a smirk to his face and nodded. Once again, he was struck by how much Teuchi resembled Teyaki. "I don't think that'll ever get old."
Sasuke felt a bit of genuine amusement make its way into his smile. Teuchi put Naruto and Sasuke's orders down before turning his attention to other customers. Naruto calmed down enough to demolish one of the ramen bowls. Sasuke took a tentative bite and was impressed. All restraint flew out the window as he ate quickly. Sasuke had been hungry after all.
"Naruto, want to try answering my question in a language human beings can understand?" Sasuke asked.
Naruto took a deep breath. "I don't bring Hinata-chan here as my girlfriend."
Sasuke gave Naruto a disbelieving look. Naruto deflated a bit before resuming speaking. "I'm some nobody. I don't have a respected clan name like you, Ino or Kiba. If Hinata-chan and I started being out in the open with things, the Hyūga that always seem to follow us when we aren't in the Academy would probably snatch her and lock her away in the Hyūga compound."
Naruto's explanation made sense. Sasuke remembered his father talking, ranting really, about Uchiha dating outside the clan. Fugaku had never been as adamant as the Hyūga about 'blood purity'. Instead, Sasuke's father had been concerned about increasing the power of the Uchiha within the village. The Clan preferred any relationship between a Uchiha and an outsider to ultimately end up strengthening the Clan. Fugaku and the high-ranking clan members were adamant in opposing any union with the other major clans.
Unless it was carefully calculated.
Sasuke remembered a plot that would have married Sasuke's cousin Yori to the Kurama heir. Sasuke's memories were fuzzy, a side-effect of Itachi's Tsukuyomi, but Sasuke believed it had fallen apart due to the accident that killed the Kurama clan head and destroyed all the Kurama's records.
However, Sasuke realized that Naruto was unaware of a very important historical detail.
"What are you talking about? The Uzumaki name is very respected," Sasuke said.
"Really? Then how come a ton of people call me that Uzumaki brat?"
"People have short memories, especially civilians," Sasuke said dismissively. He did not have a short memory. Sasuke remembered the past very well and not simply the nightmare that had haunted him for years. Sasuke was a student of his clan's history. He knew that he had to remember. He had to bear the history of his clan so that the Uchiha would never truly be extinguished.
"Then why do you think the Hyūga are so pissed at the idea I might ask out Hinata-chan?" Naruto asked and Sasuke didn't miss the slight pleading edge in Naruto's voice.
"You have no social standing, manners or solid political connections," Sasuke bluntly explained.
Naruto groaned. "That's it? I thought it was something beyond my control," Naruto appeared more upset at Sasuke's tone than the news.
"You really are unflappable aren't you?" Sasuke shook his head.
"Un-whata-what?" Naruto mumbled. Sasuke growled 'never mind' under his breath and finished eating.
"It means…" Sasuke began to explain when the curtain opened up. Iruka stepped into Ichiraku and smiled nervously at Naruto.
"I knew I'd find you here, Naruto. I hope I'm not interrupting anything important," Iruka said quietly. The two young men could tell something was up.
"Nah, Sasuke was just telling me that I'd probably get girls to chase me around like he does if I wasn't a total barbarian," Naruto joked.
Sasuke rolled his eyes. "I'll see you tomorrow, Naruto," Sasuke said as he paid for his meal.
"See you later, Sasuke," Naruto responded. Iruka's smile lost some of the nervousness as he watched the exchange.
"Can we talk, Naruto?" Iruka asked after Sasuke left.
There was something in Iruka's tone that set Naruto on edge, but he nodded. Iruka was one of his most precious people, and Naruto hated telling him no. Naruto had a feeling about the possibilities of the conversation. The fear of potential loss washed over the young man.
Hinata could barely maintain acceptable posture following her dismissal. It was also difficult to maintain acceptable decorum. Her training session had been unusually short, but several of the clan's most influential members had been in attendance. Hinata had defeated Koizumi, an older main branch boy, rather efficiently, Hinata thought in a moment of vanity. She was struggling to contain the urge to jump up and down in her excitement.
"Hinata-sama," Kazue's voice drifted from down the hall. Hinata relaxed as she saw the other girl approach.
"Good afternoon, Kazue-san," Hinata greeted her recent sparring partner.
"If I may ask, how was your spar?" The branch girl asked. Hinata heard the nervousness in Kazue's voice. The heiress had heard nervousness like that several times in her own voice.
"My spar went very well. Hideko expressed his 'pleasant surprise' at my 'poise and aggression'," Hinata recounted the Elder's words proudly.
"That is wonderful, Hinata-sama. I'm sure news of your accomplishments will reach the other members of the Cadet family," Kazue said with a smile. Hinata smiled as she noticed that the nervousness had been replaced by a mischievous pride. Hinata would definitely have to look into the reasons for that later. The conversation quickly changed to another topic.
"Kazue-san, are you ready for graduation?" Hinata asked as the two girls started to head away from the Hyūga Dojo.
"I…I feel that I am ready, Hinata-sama. Well, I know I can pass the Graduation exam…it's just…" Kazue wrung her hands together.
Hinata's thoughts immediately turned to how Naruto simply listening to her concerns had calmed her and helped Hinata find her own confidence. The Hyūga heiress decided to extend the same comfort to Kazue. "What are you concerned about, Kazue-chan?"
"As a Hyūga, even a lowly Cadet member…" Kazue began to speak after shaking off the shock of Hinata's use of the familiar honorific.
"Never say that about yourself. You are Hyūga, there is nothing lowly about that," Hinata said gently. 'I should take my own words to heart,' Hinata added silently.
"Thank you, Hinata-sama," Kazue took another breath to calm herself. She brushed her bangs out of her eyes before continuing. "I just feel like the whole world will depend on me when I become a ninja."
"You won't be alone, Kazue-chan. You will have the Clan to support you. More importantly," Hinata explained. The other Hyūga girl looked up in shock. What could be more important that the Clan? "you will have the support of your teammates. They will be beside you during your missions, during training, and beyond."
"Thank you, Hinata-sama," Kazue bowed. Hinata smiled and returned the bow. Kazue straightened her traditional Hyūga robes before taking her leave. Hinata found a nearby chair and sat down. She hadn't realized just how tired she was until she had sat down.
"Hinata-sama."
Hinata had nearly been asleep when the voice dragged her back to consciousness. Her eyes snapped open as her brain processed who the voice belonged to.
"N-Neji-nii-san," Hinata managed to force out. It was difficult to think rationally when Neji was around. Hinata wanted nothing more than to run away. "I-is there something you need?"
"I…I may have been overly harsh with you in the past," Neji spoke cautiously.
'May? There was no 'may'. I reached out to you and you belittled me at every opportunity,' Hinata thought bravely but could not bring herself to speak. Neji noted her silence and continued.
"I wish for the opportunity to try to heal the rift that exists between us," Neji continued to speak with some hesitation. Hinata could tell that for all Neji's genius that he had no idea how to approach this situation.
Hinata was also out of her depth. She wanted to heal the rift in her family desperately, but she no idea where to begin. Neji, for all his proximity in blood and distance, was practically an enigma to Hinata. This was too good an opportunity to pass up, however. "I…would like that, Neji-nii-san."
Neji nodded at the diplomatic tone. "Perhaps we could train together. I have heard that your progress has caught the Elders off guard," Neji broached the subject.
"I…would not mind that," Hinata said nervously. Once again, the caution in Neji's voice was putting her on edge. Her cousin was clearly building towards something.
"I was planning on training my Byakugan's night vision this evening," Neji said conspiratorially.
Hinata's eyes became as wide as the sea. If her eyes were the sea, the shock Hinata experienced was a cyclone. "W-were you?"
"Of course," Neji said before bowing. "And Hinata-sama…I believe that if you truly wish to see the world the one to train you would be Uzumaki Naruto."
Hinata nodded as Neji concluded his statement in a hushed tone. How did Neji know? Hinata repeated that phrase over and over. After a minute of panic, a new realization dawned in Hinata's mind. Neji had spoken about Naruto-kun with undisguised admiration.
'Naruto-kun…what did you tell nii-san?' Hinata thought nervously. 'I pray that you know what you are doing.'
Naruto and Iruka had left Ichiraku and wandered Konoha for what seemed like a very long time. The pair eventually reached a quiet place near one of the training grounds. Iruka was the first to sit down. The teacher chose a bench. Naruto simply sat on the ground. Neither teacher nor student spoke for a while.
"This is about the Fox isn't it?" Naruto asked somberly. Iruka nodded.
"Why didn't you mention anything?" Iruka asked.
"I…I'm still trying to figure everything out. I guess…I guess I'm still trying to figure everything out. I, I was actually going to tell you that I knew before I graduated," Naruto stumbled over his words.
"Naruto…you know I will do everything I can to help you. I…I have also known about the Kyūbi," Iruka revealed.
"Oh…" Naruto paused. "W…was there a reason you never told me?"
Iruka flinched at the betrayed tone of Naruto's voice. "The Hokage made a decree, punishable by death, that no one could tell you. I'm sorry, Naruto. I couldn't tell you, but I did everything I could to help you."
"Old Man Hokage must have forgotten to mention that when he was telling me about the Fox after I was nearly kidnapped by ROOT," Naruto spat out in disgust. "But…but I know you've been trying to help me. Trying to make me feel human…I…I really don't want to think about what I would be like without you."
Iruka didn't respond, but simply got off the bench. Naruto's eyes widened in shock as Iruka hugged him. "I shouldn't have to try to make you feel human. You are Uzumaki Naruto and you are my friend…even if you try every day to turn my hair gray before I reach thirty."
The emotion overwhelmed Naruto and he cried without shame. "T-thank you, Iruka-sensei. That…that means the world to me."
"I'll be here for you, Naruto. But, I won't be the only one anymore. You've got great friends in Hinata and Sasuke. Oh, and don't think I've forgotten about all the times you've skipped my classes with Shikamaru, Chouji and Kiba."
'Namikaze wasn't lying. I…I really will have great friends,' Naruto thought ecstatically. "Thank you, Iruka-sensei."
"You're welcome. I'd love to stay longer, but I have tests from third year to grade. I'll talk to you tomorrow," Iruka simultaneously promised and apologized.
"Yeah..." Naruto said softly. His natural exuberance returned and he looked up excitedly. "But you won't be able to speak after I pass the exam-ttabayo!"
"Naruto, I've become immune to your attempts to render me speechless. I'll bet an all-you-can-eat meal at Ichiraku that I will be fully able to speak after you pass the graduation exam," Iruka playfully challenged his favorite student.
"I'll take that bet…and I'll add something to it," Naruto doubled the challenge. Iruka gave Naruto an incredulous look and dared him to continue. "I bet Mizuki-sensei will ask something along the lines of 'is that allowed?'"
"And what will I get when I win?" Iruka chuckled.
"When I win, I want to be able to invite two people with us to Ichiraku. If a miracle happens and you win…" Naruto chewed on his lip for a moment. He never really thought it was possible to lose this bet. Mizuki was going to have the exact opposite reaction to Iruka when Naruto revealed Kage Bunshin. "I'll never pull another prank."
"Confident aren't we?" Iruka felt his concern melting away. He was relieved to see that Naruto discovering the Kyūbi's presence hadn't changed Naruto.
"Of course! I'm Uzumaki Naruto!" Naruto shouted and thumped his chest.
"Never change," Iruka laughed. The outburst caused him to miss Naruto wince. "I could stay here all day, but I have a lot of work to finish. I'll see you around."
"See ya later, Iruka-sensei!" Naruto waved as his favorite teacher headed off. Naruto looked to his left and saw the Memorial Stone. He instinctively felt a connection to the Stone, beyond the honored names engraved upon the cool black stone. The weight of Namikaze's memories was very heavy around that stone. Strangely, this gave Naruto hope. This new hope filled him and he created a Shadow Clone. It was time.
The Hyūga guard gave Hinata a respectful, if incredulous, look. "You will be training…with Neji-san?"
Hinata nodded. "Yes, Neji-nii-san is a full Genin and will be able to show me some effective scouting techniques. His Jonin-sensei has not returned from his solo A-rank and he has time to teach me," Hinata explained.
The guard looked over to Neji. The Hyūga prodigy nodded. "I will see if Hinata-sama can…advance sufficiently in such a short time."
Hinata instinctively flinched at the way Neji had said 'sama'. However, she noticed that his bitterness and anger was no longer focused on her. It had by no means disappeared, but it was no longer directed primarily at her.
"Very well, I'm sure that Neji-san will…follow your orders, Hinata-sama," the guard said with as much neutrality as he could muster. Hinata bowed politely and Neji nodded. The two young Hyūga exited the Clan Compound and headed towards Konoha. After a few moments, both Neji and Hinata activated their bloodlines.
"Hinata-sama, how is your vision?" Neji asked.
"I can see the Chakra networks of many people. The physical buildings are difficult. I don't see Naruto-kun, yet. He generally stands out like a beacon when I have my Byakugan active," Hinata answered her cousin.
"Naruto possesses that much chakra?" Neji asked in disbelief.
"I was amazed the first time I saw Naruto-kun with the Byakugan," Hinata confirmed. It only took a moment for Neji to discover the truth for himself. Naruto was clearly visible to Neji's Byakugan. In fact, he was the chakra equivalent of a signal fire. Neji was about to concur with his cousin when he noticed something that froze him in his tracks.
There were two other Narutos out there.
"Naruto can produce multiple Kage Bunshins…" Neji breathed. He couldn't believe it. Neji had, during his clandestine studies into advanced techniques, discovered the incredible chakra strain of the technique allowed only the strongest ninja to make a single Shadow Clone.
Uzumaki Naruto, the village's pariah, was capable of producing at least two clones. The strain of the technique should have killed Naruto. Neji was confident there wasn't a Hyūga alive who could produce two and still be able to stand.
'Just who are you, Uzumaki Naruto?' Neji thought.
The Hyūga headed toward the closest 'Naruto'. The 'Naruto' waved enthusiastically at Hinata and Neji. Hinata smiled and started to head over to 'Naruto'. Neji, however, reached out and put a hand on Hinata's shoulder.
"I'll need proof of your identity," Neji said sharply. 'Naruto' rolled his eyes.
"Man, Neji, I thought this was supposed to be a trust-building exercise," the other young man grumbled. Neji released his light grip on Hinata's shoulder and nodded.
"So it is, but as a member of the Cadet House, it is my duty to protect Hinata-sama," Neji explained.
'Naruto' shrugged. "Eh, not the reasoning I was hoping for, but it's a step in the right direction. Anyway, the Boss is at Training Ground Five. He'll tell you everything there."
Neji noted the disappointment in Hinata's stance and face.
'So, it's more than just a friendship. The Main branch will never permit such a relationship…I do believe I'll support Hinata-sama's little dalliance," Neji thought excitedly. This situation was a godsend. He could use this to complete his true objective. If Naruto was telling the truth, Hinata-sama would fight against the Hyūga Curse Seal. Neji could use his support of Hinata-sama's relationship to further secure her support for removing the seal.
It would also be a small gesture of defiance against the oppressive Main Branch.
The Clone dispelled after waving one last time to Hinata. The two Hyūga quickly made their way to Training Ground Five. The real Naruto was waiting in a tree. Hinata and Neji deactivated their Byakugan as Naruto jumped down from the branches.
"Um…hey Hinata-chan," Naruto said shyly.
"Good evening, Naruto-kun," Hinata said with real enthusiasm. Neji smirked for a moment. It was as if someone had switched the personalities of Hinata-sama and Naruto.
"Yo," Naruto greeted Neji as well. Neji did not respond verbally, but nodded in response. "W-well, I suppose I should tell you everything?"
Naruto flopped to the ground. Neji noted how un-Hyūga like the other boy was. Naruto was making Neji feel very at ease.
'That is a mistake. I know how much of a mistake this is and I'm still lowering my guard around Naruto,' Neji berated himself. He was tempted to reactivate his Byakugan, but decided against it.
"I'll need you guys to activate your Byakugan," Naruto said somberly. Neji wanted to groan. Once again, he had completely misread Naruto. Hinata activated her Byakugan first and Neji quickly followed suit. Naruto started channeling a bit of chakra the moment he saw the trademark veins that betrayed the presence of an active Byakugan.
"Do you see my seal?" Naruto asked.
"We see it, Naruto-kun," Hinata answered.
'It? She didn't sound amazed or confused,' Naruto thought in shock.
"I've never seen a seal so complex," Neji whispered in awe. Naruto was comforted by the shock and near-disbelief in the older boy's tone. That was what Naruto had been expecting. Neji looked Naruto directly in the eyes. "What could possibly require such an intricate seal?"
'This is it. There is no going back after this,' Naruto steeled himself. "The Fourth Hokage defeated the Nine-tailed Demon Fox, but he could not defeat it. Instead…he sacrificed his life to seal the Kyūbi into a child…"
Naruto found it difficult to finish the story. Naruto's greatest fear was rejection. He had worked so hard to make friends with Hinata-chan, Sasuke. He was even making a serious effort to become friends with Neji. If they rejected him here, Naruto would likely leave Konoha to find Namikaze.
"I am that child. My seal was designed by my…the Fourth Hokage to keep the Kyūbi from influencing me and to allow me to call upon some of its chakra when I'm in great danger," Naruto finished.
The three young people sat in silence. Naruto was silent out of fear of rejection and a desire to let Neji and Hinata process what he had told them. Neji was the first to speak.
"This…this is a great deal to take in, Naruto. I will need time to meditate on what you have revealed. I…I do thank you for…respecting me enough to reveal this…" Neji trembled as he spoke. He would not admit this out loud, but he felt small in the face of such a monumental revelation.
"I can't blame you…it took me a while to accept the truth as well," Naruto confided in Neji.
Neji bowed. "I will speak with you as soon as I come to terms with this…"
"Take your time. This was a pretty big explosive tag I planted on you," Naruto returned the bow. Neji took a deep breath before beginning to walk off.
"Hinata-sama, I'll meet you at the edge of the training grounds…" Neji said after a moment's pause. Hinata nodded distractedly. Naruto and Hinata did not speak immediately after Neji walked off. Naruto felt a wave of hope wash over him when Hinata looked him in the eyes.
"I…I know this will change things, Hinata-chan," Naruto gulped.
Hinata nodded. "I-I won't lie, Naruto-kun…it will a little. Neji-nii-san was r-right…this is a lot to take in." The young woman paused for a moment. "But…you are still, no, you have always been Naruto-kun. Even nii-san recognizes this…I don't think he would have left me here with you if he didn't recognize the fact that you weren't the Demon…inside you."
"Thank you, Hinata-chan," Naruto took a relieved breath. "I can see it in your eyes…you're frightened…"
Hinata could see the hurt in Naruto's eyes. She decided that now was the time to be bold. Hinata reached across the divide and took Naruto's hand. "I...don't think...I don't t-think there is anyone alive in Konoha who wouldn't be f-frightened by the Kyūbi. My clan talks about the at-attack a g-great deal. We…we saw the Kyūbi i-in ways no one else in Konoha could…"
"I…" Naruto barely managed to force out. Any further words died on Naruto's lips when Hinata pulled him into a hug.
"B-but I trust you, Naruto-kun. I…I know you would never, never allow the Kyūbi to control you. T-thank you…you've protected all of Konoha…me…since the day you were born…and no one has ever thanked you."
Naruto felt his stomach knot up. The sensation was the complete opposite of what he had been expecting. True, he had been expecting to be nervous. However, he had been planning on ways to salvage his budding relationship with Hinata.
He had never expected an internal debate on whether to take the next step in their relationship. Naruto took a few shallow breaths and felt weak in the knees as Hinata looked up at him.
"D...did w-we just…" Hinata whispered. Naruto felt her breath on his cheek and her heartbeat against his chest. He was intoxicated. Naruto's head was swimming so much that he wasn't entirely sure who had kissed whom. All he was sure of was that, yes, he had just kissed Hinata. It had been such a quick kiss that both Naruto and Hinata were silently wondering if it had been a dream instead of their first kiss.
"I…we…did," Naruto said in a blissful daze. He closed his eyes and rested his forehead on Hinata's. Naruto caught a glimpse of Hinata's blush before he shut his eyes. "H-Hinata-chan…there's something else I have to tell you…"
Author's Note: And here we go! I hope the chapter length and fluff makes up for the huge gap between updates!