Absolution
Ino still stood within Shikamaru's shadow prison. Since he was standing with his hands in his pockets, her own hands were pressed flat against her thighs. She could feel the hundreds if not thousands of eyes watching her with condemnation. That she could endure but her mother's sobs were killing her. "Stop Momma! Go home please!"
"I- I won't! What's going on Ino? Inoichi! What are they saying she's done?" The woman pulled on her husband's arm. "Do something!"
Naruto frowned. He stood with his arm around Hinata's waist. He looked over his shoulder at his mother. "Is it possible she doesn't know what she's done? Maybe it was someone else."
His words caused a stir and people looked at Ino ready to forgive her actions. If she was being used by someone then…
"No." Inoichi spoke up. "I wish to God that were true Naruto but no, Ino acted of her own accord." He took a breath. "I checked her mind after we brought you home Naruto – there's no one influencing her thoughts or actions." He reached out a hand then let it drop. "That is my d-daughter. That is Ino." The hurt and pain in his voice could not be mistaken. Inoichi could barely stand up straight; his shoulders were slumped in despair.
Tsunade believed Inoichi but still, her eyes met Ibiki's and the man nodded. The whole family would be taken in for interrogation. Voluntary or by force, the truth would be learned.
"Ino? Ino please tell me. You didn't do anything wrong did you?" Her mother pleaded with her and tried to step forward but the Jonin wouldn't let her.
"Maybe you should take her out of here Shizune." Tsunade said feeling for the woman. She was a new mother but she understood a mother's pain.
"No!" She took a deep breath and moved to stand at her husband's side. She was the wife of a ninja – she knew how to be strong. "I'll behave. I won't leave my child to face – whatever comes alone." She looked from the Hokage to her only child. "I'm here for you Ino."
The sympathy for Naruto and Hinata returned and so did the anger for Ino. Everyone was willing to forgive the Yamanakas since sometimes a child just didn't turn out the way you expected. So that left Ino standing alone and in the wrong.
"Release her Shikamaru. She's not going anywhere." Naruto commanded. "Shikamaru." He repeated then stepped closer to his friend. Naruto grabbed his arm. "You knew she was going to try something?"
Shikamaru hung his head. "I thought she might. …I was going to watch out for her but I got…distracted. I'm so sorry Naruto!" He jerked his eyes to Naruto's pleading.
"It must have been something really good to distract you." Naruto said softly then looked up when somebody moved to Shikamaru's other side. "Temari!" There was a hint of excitement in Naruto's voice. "Is Gaara here?" He looked around quickly.
"No, I'm sorry Naruto – he couldn't make it. If you have to blame someone, blame me. Shikamaru was looking for her - !" Temari broke off when Naruto laughed. It wasn't his normal joyful laugh but still it conveyed his amusement.
"So you two do like each other – I thought so!" He sobered. "I never blamed Shikamaru for anything. He's got this complex or something because he's so damn smart. If he doesn't figure something out, he blames himself." Naruto pushed his friend into Temari effectively breaking his concentration on holding Ino in his shadow. "Distract him some more please." Naruto started to turn away then looked back. "Thanks for coming Temari – it means a lot." He smiled at her.
Temari blinked then bowed to Naruto. He really impressed her. She took Shikamaru's hand and pulled him back into his circle of friends away from Ino, his former teammate.
Hinata stepped back into Naruto's embrace when he returned to her and that set Ino off. "How? I saw it – in your mind I saw it! Love! For that –!" She didn't get to say much more before Lord Hiashi silenced her with a sharp jab to her throat to keep her from speaking. Nobody saw him move but there he was in front of the girl. Ino dropped to the floor gasping.
Tsunade, Iruka and Kakashi had all moved forward intent on stopping her but none had moved as fast as Hinata's father. "Thank you Lord Hiashi." She sighed and looked around. "Kurenai, Sakura, Shizune – if you please." She said when she spotted them. Tsunade gestured to the watching villagers. "Close the doors – seal the room!"
Hiashi glared at the girl on her knees before him then looked about for Hanabi. She still stood with Tenten. "Please?" He asked of the girl and smiled at her when she agreed. Hanabi was too young still.
The villagers watched warily as the three women formed a circle. "Wait! Wait please!" A voice called out and two people forced their way through the crowd. "Naruto – Lady Tsunade!" It was Teuchi and Ayame.
"It's okay Mama." Naruto nodded and they were allowed to join the watching ninjas.
Genjutsu was used to put the villagers to sleep – even though those who knew Naruto's truth were put to sleep. Hanabi started to release the jutsu but Tenten distracted the girl and she slumped into the Chunin's arms.
"Release!" Was heard over and over by the shinobi as they kept the jutsu from working on them and the two civilians. With half the room asleep, everything seemed more intimate – a confidential meeting of Konoha's shinobi.
"Dad – everybody okay?" Naruto had forgotten his friends! He jerked about looking for Koji and his parents, Mayu and Takeshi.
"I'm still awake Naruto – should I leave?" Takeshi asked. The phoenix hadn't allowed the jutsu to affect him.
Naruto blinked at Takeshi then shook his head. "Stay. Koji?"
"They're fine – all of them." Takeshi said pointing. "It seemed Satoshi was aware that something was going to happen so he'd quickly got his family to a table." The Kamiyas were resting comfortably.
Iruka had already picked up Mayu and lay her down up on the platform near Hanabi and Tenten. Quietly he made his way back to his family. Once again they all faced Ino who was still on the floor unable to speak.
With admirable control, considering all Ino had done to his daughter, Lord Hiashi lifted the girl to her feet. Instead of forcing his fingers through her slight body, he freed the muscles that would let her speak. He glared at her for a second more before going back to stand near Hinata.
"In a short space of time – you've broken many laws Ino. You used your jutsu against a fellow ninja outside of training. You attacked a fellow ninja with intent to kill. You tried to escape. You almost broke the decree on speaking about Naruto and the Nine-Tailed Fox before those who need not know!" Tsunade was almost spitting out the words she was so angry but paused when Naruto took her hand.
"Ino – why? I've never harmed you or hurt you. Why do this?" He moved to stand before the girl. Naruto really wanted an answer. In all his years, he'd never had a chance to ask anyone why they hated him so much. And he didn't want the easy answer of the fox. He wanted to know if there was something about him personally that people hated. "Tell me." His confusion and pain was there for all to see.
She rubbed her chest and neck because it was throbbing painfully. "I've got a better question – why were you allowed to live?" Ino looked at Tsunade and the other council members. "He's not human. He's a danger to ALL OF US! But he lives – why?" Ino refused to even look at Naruto.
Naruto backed off. Disappointment and anger flowed through him. He was again denied an answer. Unlike some of the villagers and even some of the shinobi – Ino had actually spent time with him. They'd worked missions together and hung out. If she had an answer, some reason he could understand then the doubts and questions could be worked out or put to rest but she was spouting the same shit he'd heard his whole life. He wanted to leave, to run and keep running until all the horrible feelings inside of him dripped from his pores leaving him free of hate. Naruto lifted his head up and stared at the ceiling looking for the strength to stay.
Seeing Naruto's frustration, Iruka stalked forward and backhanded Ino. She flew back into Kakashi who just forced her forward again. "I'm the only danger in this room. Say he's not human again and you won't say another word. Not one damn word!" He never raised his voice but the urge to kill was written in every line of his body.
Tears of pain filled Ino's eyes and her mouth bled. She looked up at Iruka her mouth open to say – she didn't know but wasn't given the choice.
"Dad…let us handle this. She set out to hurt us specifically. I don't think the selfish bitch knew how many people she'd hurt when she came up with this plan." Hinata took the hand that had hit Ino and held it tenderly. "Please Dad – we, no I should do this." Hinata looked back at Naruto who was still staring at the ceiling. "Go to Naruto. Please Dad." She kissed his knuckles.
Iruka looked away from what he considered was something diseased, the girl was riddled with stupidity and ignorance. "Hinata." Iruka caught her close and kissed her head. He calmed himself then leaned back to hold her face. "Beautiful girl, do what you need to – we all support whatever you decide to do." He kissed her once more then went to stand beside Naruto who'd turned around when Hinata said she would deal with Ino. The determination in her voice rang loudly in the room. He was holding his mother's hand for support and to keep himself from going to Hinata's aid.
Hinata breathed deep then faced Ino. "He is human!" She yelled to the rooftop. "God – you're unbelievable. You stand there and think you are the only sane one here – yes I can tell - it's written all over you!" Hinata paced. "You're not. Somehow you lost the ability to think rationally." Her dress swung about her, displaying her fury.
"Well listen to Miss High-and-Mighty! You think that just because you're a Hyuga that you can talk to me this way and do whatever the hell you want but you're no better than I am!" Ino looked Hinata up and down then laughed. "You don't fool me. You're still that wimp we went to school with. Too damn shy to even open your mouth. Anyone say two words to you and you'd run and hide." A smirk showed on her face. "A monster gives you some attention and whoa – Hinata can speak. You're speaking but you're the one who's not making sense! Do you have any idea what kind of life you'd have if you marry him? Have monster babies by him?! Did you even think about that or were you just so happy that he finally looked at you that you'd raise the creatures he'd spawn willingly?!"
"Hinata…" Naruto said quietly. He hated the doubts Ino was causing him to have. Naruto remembered what an ignorant fool he'd been. What if, what if all she feels is infatuation? Maybe we we're not meant…
Hinata spun around and gave him the sweetest smile. "I want to have your babies Naruto. Three maybe four of them. Blue eyes, my hair and your whiskers! I'm already in love with those babies!" She laughed. "I've pictured them in my mind and us. I've imagined everything about our lives together. There'll be endless training, tons of work and responsibility. The Hokage's time will be in much demand but you'll come home to me and our beautiful babies. I'll be your wife and I'll work by your side Naruto. I see a good life for us." Her love reached out for him and Hinata placed a hand over her heart then gifted it to him. She smiled again when Naruto's frown of worry disappeared to be replaced with a smile of hope. Hinata sobered and looked at the watching shinobi. "We will not be denied our happiness – our future together!" Her words were for all those listening not just Ino.
Ino laughed derisively. "Whatever!" She scoffed. "He should have died once the fox was sealed away! It was a mistake to let him live and continue to threaten our lives." Ino looked at the watching shinobi. "You all think the same; you're just too damned scared to say so! Look at what you did. Each and every one of you shunned him. He was right there before you – in your faces and you all acted like you couldn't see him! Oh and this is fact – when he was only about three and wandering the streets – did any of you lift a finger to help him? Feed him or take him home? Did you even talk or smile at him? No! You turned your backs, cursed him and wished him dead just as I do now! What's so different? I just had the courage to do what you didn't!" Ino exclaimed.
Ino turned in a circle meeting their eyes. "You have no right to stand there and judge me! You're all hypocrites." Her eyes were wide and spit formed at the corners of her mouth. At last she looked at Naruto. "YOU - DEMON FOX – THEY ALL HATE YOU! WAKE UP AND SEE THE TRUTH! LEAVE THIS VILLAGE – JUST GO! GO AND DIE ALREADY!" Ino screamed at Naruto.
Hinata went into action. Her Gentle Fist made contact with Ino's left arm and right leg before the girl could fight back. Ino stumbled but caught herself. Despite the pain and the reduction in her speed, Ino rushed forward avoiding Hinata's hands and punched Hinata in the face then tried to kick her in the stomach but only succeeded in ripping the front of Hinata's dress.
The fist to her face hurt like hell and she saw spots but that hit was nothing. Hinata jumped backwards and wiped blood from her mouth, smearing it over her face. No sooner than she'd landed, Hinata rushed forward, her dress billowing out behind her.
Expecting the Gentle Fist, Ino pulled up the memories she'd taken from Hinata's mind to defend herself but it didn't help her. She looked up to see a high-heeled shoe aimed at her face before a sharp pain bloomed in her head and a blur of colors and faces went by her eyes. Ino spun around completely – twice before hitting the floor.
"Get up. Get up. Get up!" Hinata didn't wait to see if Ino was conscious or not but grabbed Ino's hair and pulled the girl up to her knees. "I love the man! I love the demon! Naruto is the best damn human I know!" Ino was like a puppet on a string in Hinata's hand.
"You haven't even tried to understand how he feels. You spoke of what he's had to put up with but did you think about how it would have felt if it had been you?! No parents, no friends, no smiles, no kind words, scorn – silence. Complete and utter silence…for years..." Hinata's tears ran freely down her face. She pulled on Ino's hair jerking her to her feet. She watched as Ino wavered before. Hinata with seeming grace dealt several blows sending chakra through Ino's body. "Try – try living with nothing but four walls, your own face, the only sound - your own voice! There's no way you could survive it. No way you would be able to laugh and smile and want to help those who hurt you!" Hinata stopped and let Ino fall to the floor once again. She was bloody, tears coated her face and her beautiful dress was torn.
Everyone was in awe of her.
She turned to Ino's parents her chest heaving. "I haven't killed her. She'll have to be hospitalized for a long time. Ino had to pay for raping my mind, for trying to tear me and Naruto apart and for being so damn wrong." Hinata did feel for them but Ino deserved everything she'd done to her and much more. She bowed slightly before looking for her heart. "Naruto…"
"I'm here!" Naruto was shrugging out of his jacket as he walked away from his parents. "Come here Hinata. Shh, don't cry." He covered her then wiped away some of her tears. Gently Naruto placed her against his heart. "Don't cry sweetheart, please." He knew it wasn't about Ino this time but him. "That boy is fine, he grew up. The past is over. I'm happy now – with you. Oh Hinata!" Naruto cupped her head and stroked her back.
The shinobi watched in shame. Guilt bowed all their heads.
"Ino!" The girl's mother cried out as she woke from her shock and ran to the still body of her child.
Sakura had been standing at Sasuke's side watching in horror. This Ino was nothing like the girl she'd known. Staring down at her, Sakura wanted to comfort her. She even took a step forward but hearing Hinata's sobs hardened her heart. Sakura turned to Sasuke. His dark eyes searched her face then when her tears started he gently pulled her into his body.
Choji too was torn. He'd always had a secret crush on Ino but seeing how far she'd taken her feelings about Naruto was…scary. It looked like Ino but her beauty had faded as she'd put down Naruto and Hinata. He stepped forward to help her and stop Hinata but Shikamaru's light touch on his arm stopped him. Shikamaru mouthed the word no and he stopped and with tears in his eyes watched Ino's destruction.
"Shizune – have her taken to the hospital - prison ward. No one else is allowed to leave. This isn't over yet!" Tsunade informed them.
Shizune had already gone to Ino to see if she could stabilize the body. She called on the help of another Chunin that worked with her in the office to go and return with two medical nin. "She'll live. You should go with her." Shizune told the mother and got Tsunade's nod of approval. Yes, she'll live but it'll take years for her to move normally again if ever! Shizune looked at Hinata and the Huygas, her respect grew for them. Such power and self control, Hinata could have killed her easily.
Kakashi went to stand next to Iruka who was silently crying but looked ready to kill anyone who said anything he didn't like. He grabbed the man's bicep to hold him in check as well as offer support.
Hiashi and Tsunade both approached the couple. She took Naruto's shoulders while Hiashi leaned down to kiss his daughter's head. Both stiffened when a side door opened for two men dressed in white carrying a stretcher. The parents knew a depth of loathing that neither had ever experienced before as Ino was carried out. Naruto and Hinata never looked up. They just continued to hold each other.
As the doors shut once again enclosing them in an expectant silence. Tsunade searched for and found Shikamaru. "Explain why you thought she would try something."
"Mama – you can't blame him!" Naruto's head snapped up his eyes fierce. "Not Shikamaru, never Shikamaru." The conviction in his voice made her pause.
"I don't but he has answers son and as the Hokage I have to know. The Hokage Naruto." Tsunade said informing him that she couldn't be just his mother now.
His blue eyes stared into her hazel ones then he blinked. "Sweetheart, I need to…" Naruto broke of when Hinata raised her head. Her tears were slowing and she appeared to be calming down.
"I understand Naruto." Hinata rose up to lightly kiss his mouth. "I'll be okay." She reached back for her father's hand. "You're a Hokage in training." Hinata managed a small smile as she backed away from him.
Naruto stroked her cheek and nodded to Lord Hiashi before standing at his mother's side. He saw his friend step forward also ready to act as a shinobi would.
"Ino once tried to plot Naruto's murder." Shikamaru stated and listened to the shocked noises coming from the other shinobi.
"Why wasn't I told this?" Tsunade asked too quietly. "How long have you known? This could have been avoided Shikamaru!" It was hard to control her rage.
"You said 'tried'." Naruto spoke up his voice had no emotion in it. "She didn't go through with it?" He didn't know what to feel.
Shikamaru opened his mouth but Kiba beat him to it. "No. You left before she could try anything. I'm sorry Naruto, this is really all my fault. You can't blame Shikamaru or anybody. If I hadn't…jumped on you that day in the street – maybe none of this would have ever happened." There was such a hang-dog expression on Kiba's face that any other time it might have been funny but now it only brought up accusatory stares.
Naruto shook his head confused. "You never touched me that day. Yelled and cursed me but that's it. What does that have to do with Ino?"
"She sought me out – said we were the only two to see you for what you were and…and that you needed killing." Kiba stepped forward aggressively. "I said no! Please believe me Naruto! I told her she was crazy and I didn't want anything to do with her!" He dropped his eyes to the floor. "If I'd just left you alone, she would have never thought of killing you. I'm so sorry Naruto – I was a fool after I found out about the Nine-Tailed Fox. I was scared, jealous and just plain stupid." Kiba looked back at Naruto who appeared to be thinking then at the Hokage whose non-expression scared him. Kiba wondered what was going to happen to him.
"That's not true Kiba." Shikamaru stood at his side. "Ino from the moment she was told…wondered why you were allowed to live." He heaved a sigh. "She thought you should have been killed the moment you got the fox."
Kakashi wasn't able to hold him but then he wasn't a father whose child was being maligned. A table was broken into bits and several chairs were thrown against a wall as Iruka reacted to these words.
"HE WAS A HELPLESS BABY! HE WOULDN'T HAVE – WASN'T ABLE TO HURT ANYONE! DAMN HER!"
"DAD!" Naruto spun around. "Dad…please. Let's get this finished…I want this over." He waited as Iruka came to him.
"How do you do it?!" He asked harshly and held Naruto close for a moment then reluctantly let him go. "I'll try to keep my cool." Iruka's tone was light but his body was a mass of nerves.
Naruto gripped his wrist, tilted his head and shrugged. "I've always had to. It'll be okay Dad - just a little longer." He closed his eyes and Iruka hugged him once more then felt hands turning him. Iruka squeezed his shoulders letting him know he would always stand with him. "Go on." Naruto told them blue eyes seeking the truth.
Shikamaru didn't have to wonder at his strength. The life Hinata had spoken of – well it had made Naruto able to withstand much. He deserved their respect at the least. "We didn't learn of what happened between her and Kiba until after we…brought you home." Thoughts of his attempted suicide went through many minds. "You were home again with Hinata, Sasuke, your parents – we thought you were safe. Until Kiba told us about Ino."
"That's when I found out about my daughter." Inoichi said knowing he was as guilty as the rest of them. He was grateful for the strength of his friends Choza and Shikaku who stood at his side but he felt as if he failed his daughter and the village. "I forbade her from leaving the house and asked a few friends in the Anbu to watch her but…" Inoichi shook his head and spoke to the floor. "She behaved. Acted like she always used to – stubborn and spoiled – not evil… I called them off. My daughter didn't need to be watched by Black Ops. I removed the seals on the house. She was fine – whatever had made her do and say those things had disappeared. It's what I wanted to believe." Inoichi covered his eyes – his grief too much to bear.
Shikamaru couldn't look at Inoichi's pain and looked back at the Hokage. "He talked to me later and said he knew what Kiba had told us and about the Anbu but then he did what he said and called it off. I couldn't help watching her when we were together. Ino always reacted violently to seeing or even hearing Naruto's name but then she didn't. It worried me that she was curious about Hinata and Naruto. Suddenly she acted like she didn't mind hearing about Naruto, like it wasn't a big deal anymore. Ino avoided me when I noticed but she didn't do anything else to worry me." Shikamaru moved forward. "I thought she'd just try and disrupt the party, never that she'd do what she did. Then, well you know the rest. Sorry Naruto." He shook his head at all the signs he'd seen and didn't act on.
Naruto jerked Shikamaru up by his silk jacket. "Shut up Shikamaru. For a genius, you sure can be stupid sometimes! Ino never showed her face in here – there's no way you could have known what she'd do and this was supposed to be a party." He looked back at Temari. "If you hadn't of looked at that pretty girl and had some fun – I'd think something was seriously wrong with you!" He gave the guy a half hug then stepped back to his mother's side.
Tsunade knew he wouldn't blame his friends yet they'd all kept this from her. It could have been that a simple word from her to Ino would have ended the matter. "Step forward, all who knew of Ino's initial plan to murder Naruto." She closed her eyes as every single one of Naruto's friends moved forward. Tenten raised her hand since she was sitting and holding Hanabi. "You will all report to my office tomorrow to receive your punishment." The Hokage's tone was absolute.
Naruto looked at her in surprise and opened his mouth to protest but closed it again. Being Hokage gained you respect but there were many hard decisions a Hokage was forced to make. He just realized that sometimes the Hokage just might have to enforce rules and laws on the people he cared about. He held his breath then let it out loudly. "I won't ever forget." Naruto said meeting the gaze of each of his friends. "Ever." He turned to his mother. "Now what?"
Tsunade sighed. She faced her son and looked at him. There were lines of weariness about his eyes. He stood tall but looked emotionally worn. Tsunade pulled him into her arms. "I'm sorry Naruto. Nothing happened like it was supposed to." Their day had been marred by Ino.
Naruto held her tight. Comfort like this had only been a wish not too long ago but now it was his and Naruto took advantage of it. He inhaled her scent and let some of his tension drain away.
"I guess we need to wake up all these people." Tsunade said rubbing his back. "I suppose this party is officially over. I'll have to release a statement tomorrow." She pulled back and cupped Naruto's cheek. "No one will ever mention this again."
"No Mama. Let them talk." He looked at the watching shinobi. They all know what's inside me. They know what kind of life I've led and they've seen everything that's happened today. Not much reason for secrets now. I bet…I bet some of what Ino said was the truth." He crossed his arms. "My parents told me you came here for me. Honestly I have a hard time believing that - especially after what just happened." Naruto met the gazes of shinobi who were strangers to him.
"There are some here who I trust absolutely. Two people who loved me before I knew what love was." Naruto smiled at Teuchi and Ayame. "They and others took the step, maybe against their better judgment and village opinion to be my friends, my mentors, teachers – parents." Naruto turned to Hinata. He left his mother and went to her. Hiashi smilingly handed over his daughter. "My wife-to-be."
Hinata stood on tiptoe to kiss him. "I always knew I wanted you. I was just horribly shy." She blushed then smiled when Naruto finally laughed.
"Thank God you got over that!" Naruto was feeling better. As long as he had her, he would be fine. "Mama! We can't end the party yet – I haven't gotten to dance with my girl yet!" He looked over at Tsunade.
"But Naruto! These people…" She waved a hand at all the sleeping villagers.
He shrugged. "So? Wake them up. This isn't the first time this has happened to them. Living in a shinobi village, they should be used to not knowing everything we do. Just tell them the situation was resolved. Ino was taken into custody and we're salvaging the rest of our party." He and Hinata went to her. "And you're wrong Mama. Most of this day…it was exactly as it was supposed to be. Let's make sure the rest of it is better." Naruto took her hand. "Dad?"
Iruka took Hinata's hand. "I'm here and I not going anywhere." He shook his head in amazement. "You always surprise me son."
Kakashi moved until he was standing behind Naruto and caught him by the shoulders. "Me too." He leaned down. "You know when you first got your place – the Anbu took care of you. They did!" He said when Naruto looked over his shoulder in surprise. "I wish I'd been one of them. I was away most of the time on missions but many of them were proud of you even then Naruto so don't think badly of all the shinobi." Kakashi gave him an affectionate noogie.
"Naruto," Shibi, Shino's dad stepped forward. "I want you to know that we never harmed you – my family and I. We may not have befriended you but we never deliberately caused you pain either." He bowed. "Please forgive our weakness."
"I too am ashamed for not at least helping you." Choza, Choji's dad said. "I saw – I saw some of the villagers hassling you when you were small. I could have helped but in ignorance and possibly fear I did not. The shame will be with me always." He shook his mane of hair. "I'm pleased you can call Choji friend. The children are apparently wiser than we, the adults." Choza bowed. "Good luck on your marriage Naruto, Hinata."
The parents of his other friends also moved closer and confessed their sins. They either wished Naruto and Hinata good luck or promised new friendships and support.
Naruto's mouth was hanging open slightly as he blinked at all of them. Damn, are the surprises never going to end today? He looked over at Sasuke when he heard him laugh.
"You're at a loss for words – now who would have believed that possible?" Sasuke walked forward still holding Sakura. He got serious. "I understand Naruto. Trusting in them is hard because you want it so badly." The two of them shared a look, a bond of past misery and lost wishes. "One day and then the next – just give it time Naruto. If nothing else you've got me and them." He nodded at the other Chunin. "And your family." Sasuke smiled as Jiraiya joined the bunch pushing Kakashi out of the way.
"Alright little brother?"
Naruto closed his eyes and inhaled. "Yeah, yeah. Thanks my really older – I mean big brother!" He backed off as Sasuke threw a punch at him. "Everyone – please, let's forget what's happened and try to have a good time." It was then that he saw Inoichi drop to his knees.
He approached the broken man. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry who I am affected Ino so badly." Naruto stood before the man. "I wish…"
"No, Naruto!" Inoichi's voice was a pained whisper. "Somehow I failed to notice the change in Ino. And I'm sorry for the pain she's caused. So damn sorry." He took Naruto's hand and held it tight. "Maybe you can forgive us one day." Inoichi got up on his feet and looked at the Jonin guarding him. "Take me away. I'll only spoil things if I stay any longer." He bowed to Tsunade. "Lady Hokage – I await your judgment." Inoichi then turned his back stiff and left the room with his escorts.
"You'll help him won't you Mama? It wasn't his fault." Naruto looked over at her.
"I'll do what I can Naruto but…" Tsuande shrugged. Unfortunately, Inoichi's biggest problem was that this was a family matter. Ino had betrayed her family by acting out like she had. It was something he and his wife would have to deal with.
Naruto nodded. "I know. So we going to continue this party or what? Come on Mama let's not end this day on a bad note." He needed something that would chase away the gloom in there.
"Hey Naruto, you hungry? How about I cook you up some ramen? Just for you and Hinata – she deserves a good meal!" Teuchi said with a smile.
"Ichiraku ramen? Oh yeah, I'm always hungry for that. Thanks old man." Naruto smiled at him and Teuchi and Ayame set off to do some cooking.
"Wake the villagers and open the doors. Remember this is shinobi business. Naruto has stated his wishes and this topic is fine amongst other shinobi but not the villagers. Understood?" Tsunade looked at her people.
Every shinobi stood at attention, bowed and answered, "Yes Hokage!"
The genjutsu was released and some very confused people woke up on the floor or slumped in their chairs. Questions were asked but no answers were forthcoming. They remembered the Ino girl and how she'd somehow done something to Hinata and people looked for the couple.
Kakashi went to the DJ and requested as slow song. The man wisely did his job and kept his mouth shut. He turned and watched as Iruka pulled a thoroughly confused Mayu onto the dance floor. Lady Tsunade and Jiraiya went to the Kamiya table to check on them and reassure them that everything was alright. Everyone knew something pretty bad happened since Hinata had blood and bruises on her face and her beautiful dress was torn but seeing as how the ninjas were all acting as if nothing had happened the questions gradually stopped and with nervous looks, the villagers began to try and act like they were having fun.
Naruto held Hinata about the waist moving slowly. She had her hands on his shoulders looking up at him.
"You kicked ass today. I'm glad you didn't kill her." Naruto whirled them around.
"I wanted to but her parents were right there. I couldn't while they watched." Hinata put her head on his shoulder and let him lead. "I'm sorry she talked about the things that happened to you. She got that information from my mind." Hinata admitted in a whisper.
"It's okay. I should have figured out you and my parents would find out my past. Really sweetheart, you should let that go. I vaguely remember all that stuff and I'd like to keep it that way. It'll only hurt you to think about it." One hand slid up beneath her hair and caressed her neck.
"I don't want to forget it Naruto. As horrible as it was, it made you, you. I won't dwell on it but I won't forget. …And I guess it helped, Ino saying those things. A lot of shinobi now know what their bad behavior cost you. Let's hope others feel the same way as Shino's dad and the others." Hinata hummed to feel his strong fingers on her neck. The tension was lessening.
Naruto was silent as they danced. He didn't know what to think about all that so he was going to follow his brother's advice and see how it all goes day by day. "Hey, you know what?" His head lowered until he could whisper in her ear. "I love you."
Eyes still closed, Hinata linked her fingers behind his neck and smiled. "You know what? I love you too!"
The couple danced two songs before Teuchi called out saying that the ramen was ready. Hands linked they went for a favorite meal followed by their family and friends.
Lord Hiashi was playing host yet again. His home and garden were full of Naruto and Hinata's friends. He didn't mind, was in fact glad. It was time for gatherings like this – real meetings of friends and a forgetting of hostilities. After the party was over Hinata wanted a shower and a change of clothes so Naruto had walked her home and their friends had followed. Hinata was in her room cleaning up while his other daughter was sulking. She didn't appreciate missing out on what happened or being told she would only learn about it when she was older so Hiashi was with Hanabi trying to ease her hurt feelings.
Naruto was out in the garden by the koi pond feeding the fish. He looked up when Takeshi dropped down on the bench beside him. "I think we should train tomorrow."
"Huh? Train? But we have the day off." Naruto was feeling a little restless. They'd danced and eaten ramen. They'd even managed to laugh and have fun but he felt antsy. Hinata had been through a lot today and he was so proud of the way she'd handled herself but at the same time he felt left out and needed to do…something.
Takeshi looked up at the evening sky. The urge to fly fell upon him. He would give the phoenix what she needed soon but first Naruto. "Hinata got to take out her pain and frustration on Ino. You didn't plus all that other stuff happened. You pretty much forgave them all for what they did to you but even so, you must feel like hitting something. Holding in all that pain and frustration can't be good for you Naruto." He looked over and saw blue eyes watching him. "I'm about the one only capable of standing up to you in a real fight. You can let it all go Naruto – fight me tomorrow."
"Am I that transparent?" He closed his eyes with a weak smile. "I didn't feel this way before but since we came here…I'm itching to… destroy or kill someone. Not really kill...but I can't…there's nothing I…" Naruto tossed more food angrily at the fish.
"No you wouldn't just kill someone indiscriminately Naruto but after all that's happened to you… Damn Naruto – it's a wonder you haven't killed them all! You've done well over the years to resist that impulse. To just let all of it go – let those people off for all the wrongs they've done to you – it's an amazing feat but if you don't truly release that pressure inside of you - . Let me help you Naruto before it breaks you." Takeshi leaned over and bumped his shoulder against Naruto's.
Again he looked into the phoenix's eyes. Takeshi's life had been fairly damn easy compared to his but still he understood. Naruto thought of Gaara and wished he were here so they could talk since their backgrounds were so horribly similar but Takeshi was offering another solution and it would satisfy this urge inside him. "Yeah, same time as always. I just hope I can make it until then." Naruto said feeling his muscles flex and move beneath his skin.
"What's up? Sasuke asked joining them. He sat on the ground.
"Brooding. Sasuke, why didn't you guys tell mama about what was going on? Now she's got to punish you!" Naruto wanted to shake him.
Sasuke shrugged. "We'll deal with it. We wanted to handle it. You'd just tried suicide Naruto and they were scared out of their minds. Not one of us wanted to bring up another threat on your life! Maybe it was the wrong not to tell but it we did the right thing! Protecting you and Hinata from more pain and harm was exactly the right thing to do." Sasuke's dark orbs defied Naruto to contradict him.
"I wonder if all big brothers are stupid or just you." Naruto said with a small smile.
"All of us I imagine." Neji said standing over them. "Come on inside, Uncle is serving tea and sweets." He held out a hand to Sasuke.
Naruto stood feeling older as well as ready to explode. He looked towards the house and some peace settled over him to see Hinata waiting on him. With eyes only for her he left his friends behind. In moments he held her.
The gang stayed until nightfall then left right before Tsunade, Iruka, Kakashi and Jiraiya arrived. The four had returned to her office to discuss things – the Chunins' punishment, what to do with Ino and her parents as well as what to tell the villagers. They all looked tired.
Naruto sat in a chair with Hinata curled up in his lap. They'd been close all evening one rarely leaving the other for any length of time. It seemed Ino's invasion had shaken them both and only being with each other, eased that trauma.
"How you doing son?" Iruka asked as he sat.
"Fine I guess. How's Koji and Mayu? Sorry to leave you with all their questions." Naruto paused. "Did you explain…everything?"
"No I didn't. I thought it best they didn't know. Knowledge can be…harmful to those who can't protect themselves. Satoshi understood. Apparently he had a childhood friend who was a ninja – it's why he's able to accept so many odd things. He'll help Oriana and Koji understand." Now Iruka looked down. "I hope to tell Mayu soon but the time's just not right. She'll be staying a little while so we'll see." The room was quiet for a moment.
"So where's the phoenix? I'd like to meet them." Jiraiya asked looking around.
"Gone home, you just missed him." Takeshi was someone the Sannin would like to talk to. Naruto couldn't imagine the questions he would bombard Takeshi and the phoenix with. "Don't overdo it. Takeshi's a nice guy and a good friend. I don't want your pervy ways corrupting him!" He managed a grin.
"Ha, ha!" Was Jiraiya's sarcastic reply. "You'll introduce me tomorrow. So has he helped you any?" Jiraiya knew Naruto lacked control of the fox's chakra and if he was able to gain some then possibly it was time for some new training.
Naruto stroked Hinata's hair. "Actually yeah, in more ways than one." That got everyone's attention. "Well you know I can talk to the Nine-Tailed Fox right?"
"You can?" Jiraiya and Lord Hiashi asked surprised.
Naruto smiled. "Look the other guys don't know. I'm not trying to hide it but it's just really personal okay?" When he got their nods, Naruto continued. "Well I was really jealous of how Takeshi and the phoenix get along and he suggested I talk to him –the fox instead of the yelling like we usually do. In the past – we generally just yell at each other. I'm his prison and he's made my life hell. Not a good basis for being friends." He explained.
"So how did it go? Your talk?" Kakashi asked leaning forward.
"Well I did most of the talking but he listened. Nothing was settled but it went a lot better than it has in the past." He looked down at Hinata. "Those words today, in your voice, coming from your mouth…" Naruto inhaled sharply for it had hurt him.
"I'm sorry I-." Hinata stopped speaking when he kissed her then when she saw his eyes, she blinked. "What?" There was a smile in those eyes.
"It was him. The fox told me that it wasn't you. I might have done something really stupid like…leave but he made me see it wasn't you or that it wasn't only you. I think he likes you." Naruto grinned at her.
"Was it what I said?" Hinata scooted backwards so she could look at and touch his tummy. "Did you hear me?" She whispered and looked up at Naruto with a happy smile. "Thank you Great Nine-Tailed Fox – thank you for saving us." Hinata got on her knees and laid her head in Naruto's lap. "I love you guys."
Naruto laughed. "Okay now this is backwards. I'm supposed to do this to you when you're pregnant!" When Hinata raised her head she was laughing too.
"Well now you'll know what to do!" Hinata replied looking forward to that day.
"Not any time soon!" Iruka, Tsunade and Kakashi yelled out and they frowned when everyone laughed at them.
As they'd talked about the revelation of the fox and other mundane topics to forget about the day's events, Naruto and Hinata fell asleep. Not wanting to wake the kids and to be able to talk in private, the adults had moved into the kitchen.
"So he's communicating with the fox now and practicing with its power. A lot has happen since I've been gone. And they're lovers! Grass doesn't get a chance to grow under that boy's feet does it?" Jiraiya hooted.
"Don't make me hit you." Tsunade warned. "That's still my baby out there." She said as she moved away from the door where she had been watching the couple.
"And mine." Lord Hiashi said loftily looking down his straight nose at the Sannin.
"I meant no harm, it's just they're a remarkable couple. Ino had all the right ammunition to kill their relationship. She nearly succeeded but with a little help from a – friend, Naruto fought back and Hinata beat the chick silly. They're going to be the couple to watch for the next generation." Jiraiya said as he sipped on some sake.
Iruka moved until he could watch Naruto more closely. Lord Hiashi followed his gaze. "What is it Iruka? You look worried."
Iruka looked at him then over at Tsunade. "You don't think it could influence Naruto do you? The fox. Could it convince him to do things he wouldn't normally do?"
"No Dad, he won't." Naruto said sleepily. He moved carefully until he was sitting up then picked up Hinata and stood. "I'm going to put her to bed – be right back."
"Naruto?" Hinata asked responding to his body moving against hers.
"I'm here sweetheart." He held her tenderly then left the adults to walk up the stairs. Naruto entered her bedroom and placed Hinata on the bed. He smiled when she wouldn't let go but he gently removed her arms. He should feel awkward undressing her with their parents downstairs but he didn't. Her pants, jacket, shirt and bra were removed gently. Naruto kissed each nipple before reluctantly covering her with one of his old shirts. "I wish I could sleep beside you tonight." He stroked her hair. "I love you Hinata. Tomorrow will be a better day. I won't fall again – guess I've still got some growing up to do but I promise to become a man you can be proud of."
Her skin was flawless, the bruises having been healed by his mother. She'd faced off against Ino not just for him but for them. He'd never been more proud of her, now he just had to make her proud of him. "I'll see you later sweetheart after I clean my soul. Sleep well." Naruto kissed her forehead, covered her then quietly left.
Naruto entered the kitchen where the adults sat. Before, they'd been talking quietly so as not to disturb him and Hinata but he hadn't been quite able to relax yet so he'd heard them.
"Okay, listen up. I'm going to say this once then I'm going home. No discussions and no arguments." Naruto stood in the doorway hands in his pockets. "We –me and the fox have argued since the moment you threw me off that cliff old man." He pointed to Jiraiya." Every damn time we spoke it was a shouting match but I think that's changing. He has no way to get out and I can't take him out. I don't want to. Yeah, I want him – he makes me powerful. With him I'm strong enough to protect all of you. I want him to see this world through my eyes and he's seen the worst of it already just by living here." He took a deep breath. "But fortunately I've never settled for the shit that was dished out to me. I'm still able to see the good in this world. I got him to think about that – he's thinking and maybe he's willing to give it a chance since he helped me today."
Naruto looked out at the night sky and thought of Hinata alone upstairs. "The seal is strong and yeah he can influence my anger and hate but I'm learning to control that. Even if he does take me over, are you saying you wouldn't notice? Mama? Dad? Kakashi-sensei? You don't think she wouldn't notice?" He pointed at the ceiling indicating Hinata. "There is no one who is as watched as much as I am in this village. The fox resides in a prison within a prison – his human cage and Konoha. He's not stupid – you may love me but as I've said before and he well knows – we'll die at the first sign of trouble." Naruto looked at their faces, each of them just itching to speak and argue with him. "So we understand each other." He wasn't going to give them a chance. "I love you all. Thank you for today and I'll see you tomorrow. Good night." He spun around and dashed out of the door. Naruto jumped up into the nearest tree and disappeared.
Tsunade leaned over and smacked Iruka on the back of the head. "Idiot!"
"Yeah, I am." Iruka rubbed his head. "Should we go check on him?"
Jiraiya was chuckling. It was good to see someone else get hit by Tsunade. "Leave him be. He couldn't stay with his woman so give him some time to sort it all out for himself. Naruto will probably sack out the moment his head hits the pillow."
"Well he answered your question anyway Iruka. I think the Hokage in him is surfacing." Hiashi smiled. "You adopted a son but the man is rearing his head – so how do you like him now?"
Tsunade and Iruka looked at each other and smiled. "Proud." They said. Naruto would have been embarrassed to hear them speak so well of him.
Naruto was waiting for Takeshi. He was leaning on the railing staring at his neighbor's door. "Hey."
Takeshi blinked. "Did you sleep at all?" He closed the door and shivered. Since it was now Fall, the mornings were getting chillier and chillier.
"Some. Come on let's get going." Naruto leapt up to the roof. "Quicker this way." He said staring down. "You sure about this Takeshi? I'm really on edge, I don't know if I can hold back this time."
"Oh yeah, even more sure now." If Naruto had been waiting for him for a while, he needed to let loose in the worst way. "I can take it. Lead the way."
Takeshi leapt over rooftops into trees and finally over the gate. Naruto ran as if he were trying to outrun something. Instead of jumping the river, they ran across the rushing water to the clearing their previous training had made.
Neither was breathing hard as they slid to a stop. Naruto removed his headband, his jacket and his weapons. This would be a hand to hand and chakra against chakra fight. Seeing what Naruto was doing, Takeshi removed his cloak, sword and weapons as well.
"…Takeshi…" Naruto faced his friend.
"She's strong Naruto. The phoenix won't let me die so go all out." Takeshi bowed to him. "I'm expecting one hell of a fight." He raised his hands to the prayer position and his body began to shimmer with his chakra.
Naruto nodded. "You'll get one." He didn't even have to perform any hand signs now. The flames spun out from his belly and covered his body instantly. It wasn't the low roar he'd been using but more powerful. Naruto walked forward and his steps dented the ground. He flexed his hands and extended his claws. A long tongue stroked his canines. Red eyes looked over Takeshi and he roughly told him, "You'd better crank it up a notch! Arghhhhhh!" He raced forward.
Takeshi was about to but just barely missed the first punch and even though there was no direct contact, the pressure of Naruto's chakra pushed him sideways and off balance. He caught himself and brought up the feelings he had for his father and how he'd destroyed their family. "You're going to have to better than that Naruto! Or was Ino right about you?!" He lashed out with a long leg catching Naruto in the stomach. The teenager bent over but never moved. Takeshi thought he'd kicked a brick wall.
Naruto gripped Takeshi foot then with a snarl twisted it, spun around and threw Takeshi over his shoulder. His speed had so increased that he caught up to Takeshi before he could get anywhere, jumped up and pounded the young man into the ground. "Ino wasn't right about any damn thing!"
He spat out dirt and blood then pushed himself up. "RAAAAAAAAAAAA!" Takeshi gave Naruto several rapid punches followed by a spinning kick to the teen's face. Naruto bounced backwards several feet. Naruto was only down for a few seconds before he was up again but – different. Takeshi could see the outline of a fox around Naruto and a tail! He took a deep breath awed by Naruto and the fox.
"It was a nice yell but I thought we came here to fight!" On all fours, Naruto ran at Takeshi.
"Well my lady, looks like I'll be needing more of your chakra." Takeshi told the phoenix. Wings of chakra and feathers burst from his back while his body was covered in an iridescent chakra. "Let's give him what he needs – a good ass kicking!" The wings flapped and up he went.
That Takeshi could fly didn't deter Naruto. He zigzagged up the side of the mountain and with a boost from his tail – launched himself at Takeshi. They met in mid air with a boom loud enough to wake the dead or least all of Konoha.
Tsunade jumped up out of bed and dressed hurriedly. Her first thought was of Naruto and if was he safe but then her focus became the village. Those loud sonic booms were not natural. It was possible that the village was under attack. As she opened her front door, a squad of Anbu landed silently before her. "REPORT!"
There was a moment of silence then one stepped forward. "It's Naruto."
She looked at them confused. "What's Naruto? I said report!" Tsunade's heart was beating way too fast as she stared at the masked woman in front of her.
"Those sounds – Naruto's making them. He and the newcomer are fighting. …Should we stop them?"
Tsunade frowned. Naruto and Takeshi are fighting? Did something happen between them? The sounds of trees breaking had her moving. Tsunade followed by four Anbu ran towards the main gate. She was unsurprised to see if not all then most of her shinobi there – alert and ready for battle. Some of the braver villagers had also rushed to see what was happening.
"Lady Hokage! Where's Naruto?!" Hinata asked as she saw all of their friends but nothing of her fiancé. When she'd woken to those sounds, at first she'd thought it was thunder and of course she thought of Naruto but when she opened her eyes to see the sun and recognized the crashing sounds of trees and of boulders making contact with the earth – she was sure the village was under attack. Her father and Neji had waited for her and together they'd headed for the main gate. She'd expected to find him there and was beginning to freak out that he wasn't.
Before anyone else could speak, a swirl of smoke furled from the ground and a large toad appeared with Jiraiya on its back. "Stop worrying! The village isn't under attack!" He yelled at the hundreds of people gathered.
"Jiraiya!" Tsunade leapt to his side. "Is it really Naruto? Is he out of control?" She spoke quietly and tried to control her facial expressions.
"Yes and yes but not the way you think." Jiraiya gripped her wrist. "They planned this fight. I'm assuming Takeshi offered Naruto an outlet for his anger and frustration knowing he was the only one capable of taking it. That mess yesterday affected him more than we thought." He frowned as Ino appeared in his mind.
Tsunade searched his face then winced as another boom caused more boulders to tumble down the mountain. "How do you know this?"
"…I watched over him last night. He may have slept about an hour but he was up the rest of the night - restless. When he left his apartment I was worried but he was just waiting on Takeshi and I heard them talking." Jiraiya looked back and could just see two blurs before they dropped back down into the trees again. "I'd say Naruto was working off fifteen years of anger and frustration. I just hope the phoenix is strong enough because neither of them are holding back much if anything at all."
"Shouldn't we stop them? What if they hurt each other?" Tsunade pulled on her wrist but Jiraiya didn't let go.
"You want to get between those two forces of nature? All they can see is each other. The pain, frustration and probably some competition is focused on the two of them - Naruto and Takeshi. The forest is being torn apart and some of that mountain may fall. If we even try to stop them – how many people do you think we'd lose? How many of Naruto's friends would he kill by mistake? We just have to wait Tsunade. Wait until they've worked it out. Give Naruto this – he needs it." Jiraiya understood completely why Naruto was doing this. After Orochimaru showed his true colors and defected, he'd had similar feelings.
On the ground Hinata searched for Naruto but still couldn't find him. Seeing Sasuke, Kakashi and Iruka, she pulled her family along until she could reach them. "Where is Naruto?" She jerked on Iruka's sleeve.
Iruka didn't know how he knew but he looked to where the sounds were coming from and pointed. "He's out there. My son is out there." Guilt and worry were Iruka's main emotions – guilt that his words had caused this and worry about what the two boys would do to each other because it could only be Takeshi who could take and return such blows.
"Naruto?!" Sasuke and Hinata said together.
"Your Attention Please! Everyone! We are not being attacked. The village is safe!" Tsunade said and repeated several times from the toad's back. Unfortunately, this time Jiraiya was right. They had to leave Naruto alone until he came home again. She looked upset for a moment but her features hardened and she spoke again. "If you are not shinobi – I ask that you return home. You are not in danger but to guarantee your safety – please go back to your normal routines!" Tsunade gestured to the Anbu below her. "Clear this area now." She and everyone else waited until all the civilians were safely out of earshot.
Tsunade faced the military might of the Hidden Leaf. "That is my son is out there – my Naruto! It is he who is causing that destruction!" It was time they knew the truth and faced the truth about their actions. There were gasps of shock. She could see awe and anger and fear and hopelessness on some faces.
"He is not a threat to you! There are Anbu watching him, as they have his whole life! He will NOT be allowed to attack Konohagakure! Naruto…Naruto had a difficult day yesterday. He forgave many of you for the hurt you caused him in the past but it wasn't enough! Naruto has chosen this way to release his pain!" Tears rolled down her face. "Even in his anger, he protects this village from himself! Go back to your homes and jobs. Don't go near him, in fact no one leaves the village until he comes home! I AM TSUNADE, THE FIFTH HOKAGE AND NARUTO IS MY SON. DO NOT LEAVE THIS VILLAGE!" She was sure most of the shinobi would obey her and the sheer power Naruto was displaying should tame the rest of them. Tsunade looked at them almost daring them to disobey her. Right now she also felt the need to hit something.
Back in the villager proper, villagers wandered back to their homes and businesses but stayed outside, eyes glued to the mountains and their movements. They were frightened but the Hokage had assured them they weren't in danger but still – someone or something out there was moving mountains.
Tsunade jumped down off the toad. About half of the shinobi left and tried to go about their jobs but the sounds were unnerving – not just that but occasionally there were screams as well of someone in great pain. "Hinata!" She went to the girl and held her face.
"He'll be okay. As horrible as it all sounds, I guess he does need this. You were able to let go of some of your frustration on Ino and now this is Naruto's turn. We just have to wait and be strong."
"I should have noticed. He and Takeshi were out in the garden and Naruto looked frustrated as hell. Dammit!" Sasuke paced, clenched a fist and looked at it. He wanted to be there for Naruto. It should be him helping his brother through this! And if only he'd beaten that stupid girl silly long ago, she'd never been able to hurt him so badly. "Ugh!" Sasuke looked around at the rest of them and saw Neji looked just as ready to explode as he was. "Fight me. Fight me!"
Neji blinked in surprise but then a small smile appeared on his face. He'd been tasked with keeping Hinata safe when he'd been just a boy and he'd neglected that task for many years. He'd willingly begun looking after Hinata again because now they were truly brother and sister. Neji had spent the night berating himself for not protecting Hinata or Naruto from that manipulative bitch. He looked back at the mountain and nodded. "Bring it on."
Several watched in amazement as the two teens stepped outside the gate, activated their kekkei genkai then attacked each other. It was a clean fight as they used no weapons but vicious because neither held back on their jutsu.
"Neji…Father?" Hinata questioned her father when he held her back.
"Lady Tsunade already said it – they need this too. As your siblings, in their minds, they failed to protect you. Let them work off their frustrations." Lord Hiashi said. Even as he spoke, the other Chunins were pairing off to fight.
Temari looked on in surprise as Shikamaru went to Shino and tapped his shoulder then nodded at Sasuke and Neji. Shino agreed and they fought hand to hand without jutsu. Lee clenched his fist and yelled for Kiba to join him. Man and dog were happy to doso. Sakura looked at Tenten and then Choji. The three walked outside the gates and joined the others in supporting Naruto and working out their anger at a former friend.
"I can't believe this!" Tsunade said with her hands on her hips. They were all due in her office later this morning and her son was out there showing more power than she'd ever thought to see from someone who wasn't a Sannin.
"Believe it!" Iruka said managing a half laugh. "Genma, would you mind?" He jerked a thumb at the action outside the gate. The other Jonin was a bit surprised but he couldn't refuse him. As Naruto's father and his obvious frustration yesterday – he needed this too.
"Of course. Weapons?" Genma asked.
"No, I wouldn't want to hurt you that bad." Iruka said eyes bright as he faced his opponent with blood racing through his body.
"Then this should be fun!" Genma said with a kick.
Tsunade, Lord Hiashi, Jiraiya and Hinata all stood blinking as their friends and family attacked each other while in the distance the continued sounds of Naruto and Takeshi fighting echoed all over the Village Hidden in the Leaves.
"What do you say Kakashi?! All this youthful energy has me about to bust! Fight me! Let's fight!" Guy nudged Kakashi none too gently.
Kakashi watched his team and Iruka. There were smiles as each tried to take the other down. The muted and hurt feelings left over from last night were being used and released. No one would forget but after this exercise – they would feel better. Kakashi looked over at his grinning rival. "This is one time I'll have to agree with you Guy."
"Great! How about a wager then? We can -!" Guy didn't get to finish since Kakashi clocked him on the jaw.
Hinata sighed and worried. She hadn't been aware that Naruto was feeling so – so hemmed in. He'd always handled things so well but maybe because it had involved her that it had hurt him so much this time. She just hoped he'd talk to her about it when he returned. The power he and Takeshi were displaying was…well it was almost unspeakable but she had faith in him. He would let out his anger and come home – nobody had anything to worry about. She looked at the Hokage. "What about you Mama Tsunade? How will you get over that piglet Ino? And you Father, I know it hurt you too." Her lavender gaze went from one to the other then to Jiraiya.
"I've missed too much to be as angry as the rest of you but I'll train Naruto to make up for leaving him. As long as that blond piglet," Jiraiya chuckled. "Is punished – harshly, that's enough for me." His hardened eyes said he wouldn't mind punishing her.
"Oh she will be! I'm afraid Shizune will bear the brunt of my anger and all those papers I have to stamp. I'll probably need a new desk before the end of the day and Shizune will earn herself a few days vacation. You're sweet to worry." Tsunade took Hinata's hand and squeeze it.
"As for me, we have a large family my daughter and it has been a long while since I've evaluated their skills. I shall work out my anger on them and they shall receive some – concentrated training!" Hiashi's mouth smirked for he could not wait for that evaluation to happen.
The morning burned away with the rising of the sun. Konoha calmed down with the Chunins and Jonins having tired themselves out. Many of them lay where they'd fallen littering the street that led into the village. Chairs had been brought out for Tsunade and the others who hadn't taken a part in the fighting. None of them were leaving until Naruto came home again but worry was starting to set in. Four hours of constant fighting had gone by and it appeared that Naruto and Takeshi hadn't weakened at all.
Everyone had headaches from the assault on their ears because of the sonic booms and all the birds and animals had long since fled the area. Tsunade had had to send out messengers to the neighboring towns and villages to tell them that Konoha was clearing some land. For the most part, it was true. Jiraiya had been unable to contain himself after the second hour and had gone to watch the battle from a closer vantage point and he could, if necessary stop Naruto's rampage.
Hinata had sat some, paced at other times and was now practicing Tai Chi. She hoped it would calm her nerves. By her second routine, Iruka still dirty and sweaty from his fight with Genma joined her. Then Sakura and Tenten. It was a curious sight to see about twenty ninjas doing Tai Chi at the entrance of the Hidden Leaf. A sense of peace enveloped the group that is until the sounds stopped after hour five. No more sonic booms. No tumbling rocks and no trees crashing into each other. No animal sounds to speak of, just complete and utter silence.
"Naruto…?" Many voices asked.
Takeshi thought he was in trouble. He'd had the phoenix for over eighteen years but never had either of them endured such a lengthy battle as this one. In fact, he could easily count the number of times he'd been in fight and won them in no time. His training with Naruto and his friends had improved his stamina and shown him just what his body could do. Takeshi had only realized just how much he'd taken the phoenix for granted. She was so giving in sharing her strength with him but when he saw Naruto training without the help of the fox, Takeshi finally saw what a remarkable being Naruto was – not just him but all ninjas.
Naruto was good, he'd known that before but damn! He was tricky – popping up from out of the ground or using clones to distract him. And that tail! It could propel Naruto into the sky or be used like an extra limb and capture or hit with it. Claws ripped into his skin. Takeshi was glad for the phoenix wings that allowed him to escape when he needed to and his own claws to return the vicious swipes he'd received.
Several times he'd buried Naruto under some rocks only to watch as the teenager clawed his way out – pain and blood did not deter him. The first few hours had actually been fun if brutal. Takeshi was sure the phoenix could go on longer but he was starting to feel the strain on his body. Although Naruto was in better physical shape, he was using more chakra and he should be just as tired as him if not more so but fire still burned in Naruto's eyes.
"Naruto! We need to stop! Naruto – Stop!" Takeshi linked his hands with Naruto's and they pushed each other back and forth until Naruto cracked his forehead against his making him fall to his knees. Naruto's clasped hands beat him into the ground until Takeshi could get his feet into Naruto's stomach and force him away.
"I'm done Naruto! I can't take anymore!" Takeshi screamed as he somersaulted backwards away from Naruto. "Please stop! I'm sorry but I'm done!"
How can I take him/her down? Maybe some clones or I'll just cram my foot down her throat! …What did…? Did he/she…say something? Naruto shook his head. His mind seemed full of white noise. At times he saw Takeshi but then Ino would appear and his need to tear off her head took him over. Whenever Ino's face appeared, all common sense fled and he wanted to kill her – her and anyone else who'd ever hurt him but Ino was the only one there and she wouldn't die!
"What'd you say bitch?! I will make you pay for hurting Hinata!" Naruto's voice was barely recognizable. "Get ready for death!" He ran like a fox towards who he thought was Ino.
"Dammit!" Takeshi took to the sky. He didn't just fly but went up and up and up, far away from Naruto's reach. "He thinks I'm Ino. How do I bring him back? If only Hinata were here! Hinata…" Phoenix! I need your help. You know I'm learning but my clones and transformations are horrible but you can do it! Please help me! Takeshi smiled when she readily agreed. She could go on for a while yet but she worried for him so she would help him end this. They aimed for the ground while Takeshi formed the necessary hand signs.
"Naruto? Please stop Naruto. Come home with me." Hinata stepped over some broken limbs trying to reach her fiancé.
He'd been plotting on how to keep Ino on the ground when that soft voice reached his ears.. "Hinata…why are you? Ino! It's you again!" Naruto leapt forward but then another Hinata appeared behind him also asking him to stop. "Argggh! You won't trick me again!" The one before him was wiped out by a sweep of his tail. Tree limbs and other debris went flying. Naruto turned to stare down the other Hinata who looked frightened. He shook his head as all she did was hold up her hands and beg him to calm down.
Naruto had been expecting another clone but his fist hit this Hinata. She cried out as her body smashed into a boulder and went still. Shock kept him frozen for five minutes then the fox's chakra pulled back inside his body and Naruto's ears popped. "Hi-Hina-Hinata…HINATA!" Fear was his only emotion as he scrambled towards her then dropped to his knees next to her. "NO, OH PLEASE NO!"
"No its okay…sorry Naruto. I didn't know…how else to…stop you." Takeshi said as the transformation wore off. He couldn't move. Everything hurt. It was all he could do to speak. "I'm sorry…my friend…" His hand gripped Naruto's thigh before he passed out.
Naruto blinked rapidly. It wasn't Hinata. It wasn't Hinata. Not her. He sighed loudly then gasped when he really looked at Takeshi then their surroundings. "Ta-keshi, damn. I'm so sorryyyyyy…." He got hung on that last word as he slumped over on his side, blackness taking him over.
Jiraiya walked carefully towards the two boys. The immense chakra that had pressed down on him while he watched two hundred miles away was now gone, still if they were the least bit conscious – they might just attack first and ask questions later.
His wooden sandals stopped by Naruto's head. Nothing. With a touch of fear, Jiraiya squatted down. Both were dirty and bruised. There were copious amounts of blood on their clothes but no wounds. Gently he lay a hand on Naruto's neck then Takeshi's. Both had a pulse. "Thank goodness you're not dead but damned if you didn't try." He stood and waved over the Anbu. "Give me a hand getting them up on the toad. Check the place over to look for casualties – just to be on the safe side. We've got to protect The Leaf." Jiraiya looked over the place and had memories of when the Fourth was lost. "They destroyed a lot of land."
"Right!" One of the squad of four picked up Takeshi while Jiraiya lifted Naruto.
"You're going to scare the mess out of those women of yours. Looks like you still have a few lessons you could learn from me about keeping them happy and not worrying them." He jumped up and laid Naruto down on the toad then took Takeshi. "Phoenix, huh? You did some fancy flying out there. Alright boys, let's go home."
"Master Jiraiya has them." Neji told them. "But they're not coming this way. I think – I think he's taking them directly to the hospital!" He said the words as his feet ran in that direction. Arms out behind them, a troop of ninjas raced for the hospital but Jiraiya beat them there.
"STOP!" Tsunade yelled as the bodies were carried inside. "All of you get your wounds treated and wait in the garden! Iruka, Hinata and Lord Hiashi – with me!"
Since it was Naruto, he was immediately taken to his room. He'd been there so much lately that they'd given him a permanent room. By the time Tsunade arrived, they'd cleaned him up a little and were checking his vital signs.
"Nothing to worry about Tsunade -." Jiraiya began but she rushed by him and directly to Naruto's side.
"How is he?" Tsunade asked one of the nin even as she ran her hands over him.
"Besides dirty – he's fine. No wounds on either of them." Said a nin next to the extra bed they'd gotten for Takeshi. "My guess is they're exhausted."
Tsunade went from Naruto to Takeshi. "You're right. Completely and utterly exhausted, requiring a week or more in bed to recuperate. Both should be up by tomorrow!" She laughed in relief and gestured for the others to come inside.
Hinata felt the connection as soon as she got near him. He looked rough but at the same time, peaceful. Naruto may have been unconscious but she was sure he knew she was there. "We're going to have a serious talk when you wake up!" She said as she leaned down to kiss his cheek. Hinata laughed as a frown came and went on Naruto's face. "I still love you though." Now he took a deep breath and settled deeper into sleep. She looked up at her family. "He's fine, just fine. I'm going to go tell everyone then run home to get some clothes. I'll be staying here tonight." Hinata went and hugged them all then elegantly left the room.
Iruka chuckled. "She took it better than any of us I think."
"Well certainly better than you!" Tsunade teased. "Come on, let's let them get the boys settled then we can come back later." With the return of her son alive and intact, the world and its problems returned. "I need to sentence those Chunins, Naruto's friends for the crimes they committed." Tsunade took Iruka's arm and leaned into him tiredly. "And I thought yesterday was bad."
"I know what you mean. So what are you going to him for scaring us?" Iruka asked.
"Oh no, this one's yours Dad. I've nine other teenagers to deal with – you handle Naruto! I get to be the good guy and smother him with hugs and kisses." Tsunade laughed.
"Gee thanks! How do you scold the most powerful teenager around?" Iruka scratched his head.
"This should be interesting." Jiraiya commented following behind the new parents.
"Oh indeed. So tell me what happened up there!" Lord Hiashi demanded. "Were they magnificent?" It was true, it had been…somewhat scary and had brought up old, bad memories but this time it was Naruto and not just the fox. Naruto the hope of Konoha.
Jiraiya threw back his head and laughed. "Oh yeah like you wouldn't believe!"
A pair of eyes blinked open and watched the nin strip the boys and clean them up. They looked like normal ordinary kids but the power they'd shown…well now he knew just why the Akatsuki wanted that power. They'll have it, for a price - at least one of them. The older one, I may keep for myself. Now I just need to wait until these boys are alone. The slate gray eyes closed once again taking away the wall's sight.