-1(A/N - I do not own Naruto)

Hiashi waited outside the door that led to the Celebrations Hall of the Temple. In 15 minutes, it was set to begin. Below, in a clearing he could see Tsunade finishing her evening stretching ritual. She looked very serene as she ended in her perfect mountain pose. The last rays of light were streaming through the forest clearing catching her golden hair. She opened her eyes finally and was making her way up the steps to him.

"Are you sure about this, Hiashi-sama? Once we go in, there's no turning back." she stated.

"I am anxious to get this part over with, there will be lots of questions and we must remain resolved. I would still prefer it you remained here" he said.

"You are not leaving without me!" she said, her voice low and strained.

"So be it" and with that, he opened the door to the Celebrations Hall, allowing her to go in first. They walked up to the podium, hearts pounding in their chests.

First it was Tsunade's turn. She welcomed everyone and spoke the words of will for a bountiful spring season for the village. "Before we begin the celebrations, there are some issues that need to be discussed. First, I am resigning my post as Hokage." A low murmur sounded throughout the hall. "Do not be alarmed, provisions for a new Hokage have been made through the village council and he will be formally sworn in tomorrow morning. Naruto will make a strong and gentle leader for the village. I will be leaving to take care of a matter of great importance in the coming week. It has been a pleasure to serve the people of this village. Be well." She turned and took her seat at the hall's leadership table for the last time, breathing a sigh of relief. Now it's your turn, Hiashi she thought.

Hiashi stepped up to the podium and looked at his daughters and Neji seated in the front of the room. Taking in a deep breath, "I would like to begin by announcing that the council has decided that there should be a union between my daughter, Hinata and the strongest of the Hyuga clan's eligible young men. This could be none other than the Neji, the son of my dearest friend. Their wedding will occur two days hence.

Hinata and Neji gasped staring at one another.

Hiashi continued, "Hinata will take up my place as leader of the clan at that time. I will be leaving the village for an undetermined time. I realize this is a lot to take in, but it is for the best. Please, now, let's celebrate the Arrival of Spring!" He stepped from the podium putting on his best do not approach me face.

The members of the Council rose from their chairs lifting their glasses of sake signaling the beginning of the celebration. Talking erupted from all across the hall.

Hinata followed her father out the hall, she had grown bolder over time. She no longer stuttered, though she retained a shyness about her that was very appealing. Her hair had grown longer, almost to her waist now it was tied back now. She was wearing a pale lilac-colored kimono dressed appropriately for the occasion, as always. "Father, what is happening? Where are you going? Why are you doing this? You know I am not ready to be the leader of this clan yet…and, and Neji-sama, Father, why?"

Looking at her, he softened slightly. She was such a gentle creature, yet she had such quiet strength, so like her mother. Anger boiled in his mind that anyone would dare want to harm her. "You are ready, child. Do not despair. It is your duty and you have been prepared for this day your whole life. Neji is strong and will be a good protector for you. This union is potent for the clan. This is right, Hinata. Grant me the respect that I would not do this if I did not think you were ready."

"But, Father, where are you going? When are you leaving? Can I not help?" she asked, tears forming in her eyes.

"I will be leaving within a week. You know the rules, the mission is secret and my team is quite strong. There is no need to fear. Watch over our clan, and your sister. Trust in Neji to help you. Do not show this weakness, daughter, it is beneath you." he added sternly and bowing low, he walked away. He hated himself for how he talked with her. It had all been part of her preparation for leadership. A leader must be trained in this way, it was tradition, the way of all who had come before them.