Trying to get this story rollin' again and I hope you enjoy chapter seven of The Mage
Ch.7- A Month to Remember.
Hinata stood next to Kaito as he finished his warm-ups. Hinata had walked in about five minutes early, but he was already there training. She smiled as he stood up, stretching his soar muscles.
"You tell your grandfather about those weapons?" Hinata asked hanging her cloak on a tree branch.
He nodded, "Yeah, he took an interest in them and decided to train me in weapons, just like how he trained your mom." Kaito smiled and looked at her, "So what are we going to do today?" Hinata threw him a book on taijutsu and other fighting style. "What are these for?"
"As a shinobi, you'll need to learn how to train yourself sometimes." Hinata looked at him with a sad smile. "I'll be here for only a month, and after that your grandfather can train on weapons and you can read up on fighting." Hinata sat down on the grass and sighed, "I have to be back before sunset and then I'll check up on you every few days to see how you're doing."
"So you're just going to leave me?" He asked harshly glaring at her.
Hinata glared back at him, "I need to go back to my Mage training in a month then I'll be gone for two more years." She looked away and sighed, "Very important people are at the castle, and I've been requested to show them around for awhile, I don't know why though."
"Can you get someone else to help me sometime?" Kaito asked, "I don't want to make a mistake in my training."
Hinata looked at him and smiled, "I might know one person, he trained me and I think he can train you too." Hinata stood and looked at the setting sky, "I'll bring him by tomorrow, but he's a shinobi, so he might be able to train you every few days." Hinata warned retrieving her cloak.
"You just got here," Kaito held her wrist, "don't leave yet."
Hinata's eyes softened, but she remembered what Wolf had said to her. Hinata wouldn't live with herself if she knew Kaito got hurt, or worse because of the demon. On castle grounds, it was a different story; there are many shinobi and priest to help defend against the demon. She smiled and looked at him, "Kaito, if you ever feel in danger, please run to the castle."
He starred at her with wide eyes, "Is something going to happen to me? Did you see into the future and saw my death?!" Hinata laughed and shook her head, "Hey! Don't laugh; I thought a Mage could do that?"
"N-no *laugh* that's nonsense! But really….." she calmed down and took deep breaths. She looked at him with pure seriousness. "Something is here that can bring you harm."
"A demon," he said lowly. Hinata looked at him a bit surprised, "A demon killed my mother, when I was seven years old. I hate demons, I hate all of them." Hinata became a bit frightened; the dark look in his eyes and his voice became low and gruff.
'Would he hate me if he knew?' Hinata asked herself trying to regain her voice. "Kaito, just be safe alright."
"Are you being chased by a demon?" He asked looking at her in worry, "You're one of the best Mage of our time, but if you need help I'll be there to help you."
"Power comes with a great price Kaito," Hinata said walking out of the forest clearing. "Keep that in mind." Hinata waved one last time before disappearing in a swirl of leaves. Kaito starred at the spot where she once stood, thinking over everything she said. He clenched his fist and snarled.
"I will protect you Mage, no matter what it takes." He went to his books, sat down and began reading, absorbing every word, sentence, and paragraph.
_______
"You better set up your tent," Kakashi said sitting at the table, "Just in case."
"Ah sensei, it's not going to rain and you know it." Hinata said her sleeping bag in hand. She slid open the door, revealing the back yard. Hinata left it open, letting the cool spring air in and walked outside. "I'll set up a small fire and that's it. It's not like we'll be here for days."
"So," Kakashi asked nonchalantly, "how many boys are coming?" Hinata almost laughed at the question. Did he really just ask her that?! Hinata saw the look on his face, the one a father or older brother would have when asking their daughter or sister.
"What?" Hinata said looking back at him, holding back a laugh. "It's never bother you before that I hang out with a lot of guys."
"Well you're older now and I, as your guardian, just want to be sure no other male will touch you." He said looking back at her. "That's all."
"Sensei," Hinata put her hand on her hip, "You make it sound like I'm going on a group date. You'll be inside, and TenTen and Lee will be here. Just to ease your mind, three other guys will be here."
"Three?" He looked back at her, "you already made three other guy friends?"
"What's wrong with that?" Hinata asked accusingly, "I'm not allowed to make any other guy friends?"
"I'd feel better if you didn't," he said.
"You can't do that!" Kakashi looked at her, surprised at her out burst. Hinata balled her hands into fists and shut her eyes tight. "You can't control me! I didn't ask to be like this Wolf!-" Hinata covered her mouth and starred at Kakashi in pure terror. "Sensei I'm so sorry, I-" she was cut off as Kakashi held her close. Hinata cried into his shirt, and clutched a fistful of his shirt as well.
"Pease," he whispered, "stop crying Hinata." Kakashi lifted her head up and smiled through his mask, "It's not your fault, no need to apologize. I just want you to be safe, and…" he looked away, "I wasn't the able to protect my own student from a demon. All my training, my studies just blanked when I saw Wolf." He looked down at her and stroked her hair, "I'm sorry."
Hinata took in a deep breath, "You're," she looked up at him with a smile, "such a baby." Kakashi faulted and went pale. Hinata smiled big, "Afraid of that demon, come on sensei. "Hinata let go of him and punched his shoulder, "I know you're better then that." Hinata completely shook off what just happened in the last five minutes and ran outside. "We have to get ready for the others!!" Kakashi saw that she was trying to hid the pain, but he just let her; she needed her space.
______
Hinata sat on the training stump, and waited patiently for her friends, and maybe new ones, to arrive. She looked up at the darkening sky and took in a deep breathe and the exhaled with a small smile. Hinata looked over to see Kakashi standing in the door way, his back to her. She couldn't see what he was saying or hear, but then she saw Kiba, Shino, and Shikamaru, Hinata could only assume the worst.
"If I see anything I greatly disapprove you'll be very happy that I must follow my Mage code or you would all be hung right outside my home." Kakashi said with a serious face, but you could only see his eyes, which were in a light glare. Kiba nodded, gulping loudly and the look of fear on his face.
Shino spoke calmly, "I give you my word Mage, there will be none of that." Shikamaru nodded in agreement hoping the masked Mage would let the three pass. Kakashi stepped aside and smiled at Hinata.
"Your friends are here," Hinata sweat dropped, aware that her friends have arrived. "I recommend you all are on your best behavior." He gave the boys one last look, and then went back to his own room.
"Sorry about that," Hinata smiled jumping to the ground, "he's a bit…..protective,"
"A bit," Kiba smirked as he sat by the un light fire, "I feared for my life. Do you know what it's like for a Mage to glare at you?" Hinata giggled and nodded. Kiba smiled sheepishly and rubbed his head, "oops, I forgot."
"When will TenTen and Lee arrive?" Shino asked still standing.
"We're right here," TenTen smiled jumping over Kakashi's wall. "Hurry up Lee!!" As she said that Lee was climbing over the wall, with a large bag on his back. He jumped down and took a few deep breaths before handing the bag to TenTen. "I brought snacks." TenTen smiled opening up the bag for all to see.
"Dear Kami TenTen, "Shikamaru said sitting up to see all the food stuffed into the little bag. " You came to feed an army." He grabbed a bag of chips and slowly ate while everyone else grabbed a quick treat. Hinata sat next to Shikamaru, eating some rice balls. "So what do we do now?"
"This is the part when I casually look to the left and spot Kakashi, Gai, and Anko spying on us." Hinata said smiling as she pointed to the tree to her left, "If you look closely you'll spot them."
Lee starred a bit longer, and then a big smile was on his smile, "Hi Gai-sensei!!!!" He waved as the green clad Jonin fell back out of the tree. "I thought you said you were too busy to even come stop by?"
Gai began to panic, "Well……um….Lee…?"
Anko and Kakashi jumped down, "Every Jonin for themselves!!" Anko yelled jumping over the fence as Kakashi was engulfed by a piece of earth. Gai glared at the two and quickly went over the fence yelling at Anko and Kakashi who ran off. The students looked at each other, then burst out laugh; not really Shino though, he just stood to the side and chuckled a bit.
"I've never seen Anko run away from a problem!!" TenTen laughed rolling on the ground.
"Did you see how fast the Mage ran away?!" Kiba laughed holding his gut tightly, "That was just priceless!"
"I never seen Gai so afraid," Lee smiled sitting down next to TenTen. "And I thought my sensei could do anything."
"How troublesome," Hinata and Shikamaru sighed out then smiled at each other. "I didn't think you'd find that funny." Shikamaru smirked as Hinata was trying to hold back giggles.
"If I could make sensei jump like that," she let out a snort, "I'd do it everyday." She whipped her watery eyes and took another chip out of the bag. "So now that, that is over I need to know," she looked at the three new shinobi, "why did you want to join me?"
"We thought having a friend that wasn't another shinobi would spice thing up a bit." Kiba smiled, " I mean, Sasuke an ass and Naruto is the most annoying Priest I've ever meet" He petted Akamaru who had somehow appeared out of no where, but no one wanted to question how the dog appeared, " Not to mention we've got a question for you Hinata."
"Why is it five years of training?" Shino asked sitting down next to Shikamaru, "why not just three?"
"You have to learn a lot," she groaned, "not only the training, but you need to know your manners. That why I seem like I think I'm part of the high class of society, I have too. "She crumpled up her bag and sighed, "I have to master to elements, then I have to master my shizu power," she summoned the dark purple power to her hand, her eyes turning a dark purple as well. " And I'm still only a beginner at this time." She released the shizu, "then I have to master a crap load of weapons, which I'm still going at."
"Why not stay in the village," Shikamaru asked grabbing a box of dangos, "I've heard you recently came back to the village."
"It's better to go out and explore while training, and like most Mage," she smirked taking a dango from him, "I'll learn to hide in the shadows, and appear out of no where." Hinata smiled and motioned over to TenTen, "remember when we were little I nearly gave you a heart attack."
"That wasn't funny Hinata," TenTen glared playfully, "Kakashi was teaching her how to sneak up on people, and when she got me, I nearly killed myself." She huffed as Hinata giggled, "I'm serious, I was working on my twin dragons, I barley avoided my own weapons."
"At least you didn't knock over a library shelf," Lee blushed a bit. "Hinata got me while I was in the library. We both had to pick up all the books I knocked over and put them back on the shelves."
"So that wasn't my best timing," Hinata shrugged eating a cinnamon bun. "At least I passed the test." She licked her fingers and smiled, "Let's start the fire, before Kakashi comes back." They all moved to around the fire place, which Hinata lit up with a snap of her fingers; Kiba nearly jumped out of his skin, but after everyone laughed they all settled down. Hinata watched the fire intently, but glanced around suspiciously for any sign of her "husband to be". Yeah right, over her dead body.
"Are you okay," Shino pulled her back form her thoughts. "Is there something worrying you?" Hinata smiled and shook her head. "Well then," he pushed his glasses up, "I suppose we all should rest."
"It's still early," Kiba whined.
"I have to be up early to train with Asuma," Shikamaru let a yawn out while lying back, "night." Everyone said their goodnights and quickly fell asleep. Hinata was the last to fall asleep and before her eyes closed for good, she could have sworn she saw something run through the tree tops.
_______
Hinata woke up to a white little dog on her lap, "Well hello Akamaru," she petted the dogs head and smiled as the dog looked up at her and then tried to lick her face. "Down boy," she giggled and sat up rubbing her head and looking over to her sleeping friends. "Alright Akamaru, let's wake the others."
The dog barked jumped onto Kiba's chest while barking like there was no tomorrow. Kiba woke with a start and soon, everyone was up; except for one lazy shinobi. Hinata giggled as the others groaned and looked to Akamaru. "Don't blame Akamaru, "Kiba held his dog and glared at the others. "He probably just needs a walk." Hinata giggled and sat down next to Shikamaru's sleeping body.
"Don't even bother," Shino said while standing up and dusting off his coat. "It's pointless to try and wake him. Shikamaru wouldn't even get up when Lady Hokage tried."
Hinata shook her head and pointed at Shikamaru, "This is an old trick I learned while traveling through the Waterfall village." Hinata bent down to Shikamaru's ear and whispered once she moved Shikamaru bolted up and nearly hit Hinata. "It's that how you get it done." She stood up and held out a hand to Shikamaru, who accepted her help.
"Troublesome women," Shikamaru shook his head and starred up at the sky. "Could have just yelled or something."
"What did you say?" Kiba asked while putting Akamaru in his coat.
"I told him that he better get up before I rip off his limbs and sacrifice him to the great power of the Mage, "Hinata said calmly as the others starred at her, kind of scared for the life. She looked back at them and smiled, "But that was just to get him up."
"Right," TenTen said as she stretched her arms. "I better get to Iruka-sensei to get my mission for the day." She smiled at Hinata, "You going to be okay without me."
Hinata smirked, "I think I'll manage." Just as the other were going to leave Hinata grabbed Lee's arm. "Can you do me a favor?"
Lee smiled and gave her the thumbs up. "Just say the word Hinata!! And I will do everything in my power to aid you, and if not-"
"Alright Lee," she smiled trying to quiet him down. "I have a friend in the village, which needs a good sensei in taijutsu. I was wondering if you could help him." He nodded, "thanks Lee." She gave him a smile and a hug. "I would do it myself, but in a month I'm on the road again."
"It's no trouble at all, my dear friend!" Lee gave his good guy pose; the sunset in the background, sparkling over the water. Hinata just shrugged and tried to push the setting down, but she fell into the water. Lee turned back and gasped. "Hold on Hinata! I'm coming." He dived in and dragged Hinata to shore.
"How does that even happen," Hinata yelled looking at Lee, who just shrugged.
Hinata walked through the castle's gardens, her cloak's hood up and shadowing her face. It was still pretty early, but most of the shinobi were up and ready to go. Some of the gardeners were already up, tending to the plants and bowing to the shinobi in respect. Hinata forget where she was, until she noticed the large yin, yang symbol in the ground before a large house.
"The Hyuga estate," Hinata said just as the heiress herself walked out with her cousin at her side. Hinata looked to the two, and gave a curt bow.
"Look Neji-nii-san," Hanabi said with small excitement, "it's a Mage, right in front of our house." Hinata smiled softly as Hanabi ran up to her with an admiring smile. Neji walked behind her, with an emotionless face.
"Hello Miss Hyuga," Hinata with a small bow, "it's an honor to see you in person." You've grown so much since the last I've seen you. Hinata ruffled her hair softly, forgetting that she was dealing of someone of higher class. She looked to Neji, "An honor to meet you as well Sir Hyuga," she gave a nod.
"My I ask what you are doing in front of our home, Mage." Neji said skeptically.
Hinata smiled, "You may not Sir Hyuga." He glared at her and Hanabi giggled at her flustered cousin. "I was just lost in my memories, I did not mean to offend you sir." Hinata was ready to turn, but her luck had just run out.
"Mage," she stopped in her tracks, her hands balled into fists. Hinata slowly turned around, and looked up at the tall Hyuga. "Why did you show up before my home?" Hiashi Hyuga stood in the doorway of his house, his arms crossed as he looked upon Hinata.
"I did not see where I was going Lord Hyuga," she bowed low, looking at the ground. "It was my mistake to not look where I was going, so sorry." Hinata stayed low, until she heard a low grunt from Hiashi.
"Don't let it happen again Mage," he looked at her with a harsh glare, "or there will be consequences to pay." Hinata nodded, and watched as the three walked towards the castle.
"What an ass," Hinata looked up to see Sasuke Uchiha sitting on the wall that went around the Hyuga estate. He smirked, "I didn't think I'd meet a Mage who didn't know where they were going."
Hinata glared, "Well today is your lucky day Uchiha-san."
"Sasuke," he said jumping down and putting his hands in his pockets. "Just call me Sasuke," he looked into her dark purple orbs, "What's your name?"
"You can call me Hinata," she smiled and began to walk away, but Sasuke walked beside her. "Is there something I can help you with, Sasuke."
"No," he said dully and looked at her, "just thought I'd walk with you before I run into Lady Hokage's daughter." Hinata looked at him, "She annoys me and thinks that I'll like her because she's next in line for the title of Hokage." He rolled his eyes, "Not to mention Lord Orochimaru came with his daughter Karin. Those two together is worst then a demon."
"I never thought I would see an Akatsuki-to-be afraid of two girls," Hinata smirked as the two got closer to the castle. "It's quite funny." Sasuke just glared at her, but couldn't help but smile as well. Hinata pulled her cloak hood up a bit tighter as they reached the back door, Hinata let Sasuke go first. They waited in line to be let in, Kurenai checked everyone off as they entered. It was kind of like a roll call, younger shinobi had to train with a sensei, and the older ones needed to report for missions or to train the younger ones. Mages, Priest, and Akatsuki were allowed to enter form the front, if you had made it to that rank. Like Naruto, Sasuke, they were not still in a training phase; Hinata didn't want to go through the front in fear that she would run into the royal families.
"Hey!" Sasuke and Hinata turned back to see Naruto running their way, trying to hold up his sōryo no buki (weapon of the priest (the really big staff with the red orb on top)). He smiled big as he stood in front of the two, but then frowned when he saw Hinata. "What are you doing here?"
"I'm feeling the love," Hinata said with a smirk. "But it is nice to see you dear Priest-to-be." Hinata bowed politely, only making Naruto glare at her more.
"Sasuke Uchiha," Kurenai said as she checked her list and looked to the other two. "Naruto Uzamaki." The two went through and Hinata stood in the front of the line hoping she wouldn't make a scene. Kurenai looked down at Hinata and she was a bit surprised, "You must be Hatake's student," she went through the list, "I'm going to need to speak with someone about this-"
"Hinata," Anko stood beside Kurenai in a blink of an eye. She smirked widely, "You are needed by Lady Hokage." Hinata slightly groaned by followed Anko anyway, "See you at lunch Kurenai-chan!!" Anko waved as the two disappeared.
Hinata groaned as everyone starred, "Must you make a scene Anko-sensei?" Anko looked down at the girl with an evil smile.
"I'll give you a scene Hinata-chan," Anko lifted Hinata on to her shoulders, Hinata blushed a bright red. "Look, look!!" Everyone turned there way, "The little Mage is embarrassed by attention!!!" Hinata hid her face in her hands as some the shinobi smiled at the girl apologetically while some laughed at her flustered face. "Is this enough of a scene Hinata-chan?!"
"Thank you Anko-sensei," Hinata said peeking from behind her hands. "Let's just get to the castle right away." Hinata son got used to riding on the women's shoulder and began to giggle as Anko walked on talking about the three years she was gone and what had happened. Anko learned that TenTen had mastered her twin dragon technique and that Lee was the best taijutsu shinobi that Konoha has right after Gai. Anko began to talk about how boring it was without a Mage to spice things up. As they passed the main garden, Hinata say the two little twins playing and still wearing the Sakura petal crowns.
The twins looked over to Hinata and waved at her, smiling happily at her. Hinata waved back and jumped down from Anko's shoulders. "I'll be there in a few minutes, I need to say hello to some friends." Hinata ran over to the two little girls, pulling up her hood and getting down on one knee before them. "Dear Princesses, lovely to see you again."
" Hello dear Mage-kun," the shyest of the two smiled and patted Hinata's head, Hinata sweat dropped at the '-kun' part. She really hopped the curves would come in a little faster before it was too late. "I never told you my name," she smiled as she clutched a small piece of her blue shirt, "My name is Ami. And my sister," she motioned to the bubbly girl, "Yume." The girls only looked about ten and Hinata smiled at how cute they were. They had golden locks and deep hazel eyes to match; their skin was sun kissed, which was from being outside all the time. Yume wore a black skirt with white leggings under it and she wore a red shirt. Ami wore a blue t-shirt and a pair of grey shorts; both girls wore a regular pair of blue sandals. Hinata stood up and bowed before the two, "Hello Princess Ami and Princess Yume," she stood strait. "What are you doing today?"
"Were learning about the flowers from daddy," Yume smiled and grabbed Hinata's hand and lead her up a small hill where the girls were sitting and where their father was taking out some annoying weeds. Hinata stood obediently and waited for the gardener to notice her presence. "Daddy," Yume tugged on his sleeve, "the Mage is here and wants to play with us!"
The gardener looked up at Hinata with a smile and stood up dusting off his pants, "Good to see you again Mage-san." He looked over to his two little girls that now held Hinata's hands. "I think the Mage needs to get some work done and maybe the Mage can play with you later."
"I've got some time," Hinata smiled and looked down at the girls. "How about I show you some of my fighting moves?" The girls nodded franticly and pulled Hinata over to a pot on the hill where she wouldn't hit their father. But before she could start, Lee ran up to her and smiled widely. "Is something up Lee?"
"This kid you want me to help, "he said trying to catch his breath, "Can you tell me his name?"
"His name id Kaito," she said. "He should be in the forest clearing right now, training. He'll be waiting for you and he might not trust you at first….so just say you're a friend of the Mage." He nodded and ran off to the village, ready to work this kid to the bone. Hinata kind of felt bad until she saw that Yume and Ami were pretending to fight each other. Hinata held back a giggle and the two looked at her with goofy smiles and blushes.
"Show us how to fight Mage-kun," Yume smiled widely and stood in an awkward stance. "I want to be a great fighter and grow the best flowers in the world."
Hinata sat down on the ground, "I have a great idea for you two." She went into her messenger bag and pulled out a book on plants. "These are all kinds of plants; some can make deadly poisons and others can make remedies. You can learn about these plants and become the experts to help make medicines and poisons." She handed Ami the book and took out a scroll and handed it to Yume, "I gave my friend a book on fighting, but I took notes on it in this scroll, so you guys can learn to fight even if I'm not here." She stood back up and get into a meditating pose. "Follow my lead, we must clear our heads and calm the mind." Both girls nodded and sat down next to her, closing their eyes.
"Will we be able to see into the future Mage-kun," Ami asked full of seriousness.
Hinata gave out a small snort, "no Princess Ami, this is just to be relaxed." She took in a deep breath and smiled, "Let any of you stress out as you exhale and take in all you happy memories as you inhale."
Yume began to fidget and was a bit restless, she sighed loudly, "This is boring. When do we learn to fight?" She stood up and once again got into an awkward stance, "Come on Mage-kun! Show me what you've got!"
Hinata shook her head and lightly tapped Yume's forehead, causing her to fall back on her butt. "Balance. You must learn balance before you can even get close to fighting me little princess, "Hinata cracked open one eye and smiled at her, "but maybe we can start another way." Hinata stood up and the two girls stood side by side next to her. "Get into the position," she moved her feet slightly apart one slightly in front of the other. Then she put her hands up and in a boxing position, "This is the basic defense position, were you can also get into an offensive mode too."
Tsunade walked out of her castle the two Kages and the Lord behind her, along with their children. She was horrible embarrassed that Hinata didn't even show up and now, she was on her own. "I will take show you our fine grounds and let's hope we run into that little Mage," she muttered the last part to herself. She looked over to the hill and sweat dropped as Hinata was tackled to the ground by two little girls. She also couldn't help but smile as the three girls smiled and laughed. Before she could turn back to her guest, Haku was running over to the group.
Yume and Ami got off of Hinata and smiled in awe as Haku, the Prince of the Mist, walked up to the them. Hinata rubbed her head and smiled, when she opened her eyes, she saw a pale hand extended out to her. She looked up at Haku who was smiling- it was nice not to see him in that mask-, Hinata blushed and took his hand and was amazed that he had pulled her up with such great ease. Her hood fell back, showing off her blue hair and heart shaped face. Yume and Ami squealed out how cute they thought Hinata was, realizing that she was indeed a girl, and that she was a pretty one at that.
"Thank you Prince of the Mist," she bowed kindly and smiled.
"Call me Haku," he said with a soft sweet voice. Hinata couldn't help but blush a darker red and looked away. "How cute," he smiled and let go of her hand. "Not only that, but you do so well with children." He bent down on one knee before the twins, "Nice to meet you two," he took there hands and kissed them. Both girls blushed and giggled as he stood back up.
"I-I'm Yume and this is my sister A-Ami," she said looking at her feet. "We-we love flowers."
"So do I," he said. "I love the water lilies that grow at my castle. Only the best gardeners can grow those lilies perfectly." Haku glanced over at Hinata, "You two seem like you'd be perfect for the job." He ruffled their hair and looked over to Hinata, "Such cute little kids, I hope to see you again."
"Come now…H-Haku-sama," Hinata said, "you need to get back to your father and the others."
"Indeed," Gaara stood before them with no emotion on his face. He glared ever so slightly at Haku, who caught it but no one else, "Lord Mizukage was quite upset that you ran off." Hinata couldn't see it, but Haku and Gaara knew exactly what was going on. Only one could get the young and powerful Mage, and not to mention that their fathers knew this simple fact, and were trying their best to get their son to be that one.
Hinata looked to the two girls who had the book and scroll, "Why don't you two get back with your father and I promise to see you again before the day is over-"
"It's okay," Ami smiled, "you don't have to see us later, and we've got all things we need to get started." She smiled and took her sister's hand, "Good bye Mage-chan, Prince of the Mist, Prince of the Sand." The two said with a bow and ran off after their father, who was now clipping the branches of an over grown bush.
"Why don't you join us Mage," Gaara asked looking away, "we could use your company. " Hinata nodded and went ahead as the two followed her down the hill and back to the others. Hinata looked away from Tsunade, who had a 'your-so-dead' look on her face. Karin and Temari went strait to Hinata's side and began to talk to her. Sakura was a bit upset, but joined the girls none the less. Hinata was a bit uncomfortable being around some many people of a royal family she was close to fainting, but decided that Lady Tsunade would think she was faking it and force her to work when she woke up.
"I hope that we can start this tour before night falls," Orochimaru said a little snidely and scolded as he walked by the Kages side. "I would love to visit the training buildings for your young shinobi."
Tsunade smiled, "Then we will go there first," she lead the way. Hinata glanced around and saw the shadows that followed their master where ever they went. She smirked when no one had even noticed she was staring an Akatsuki in the face. She turned her attention back to the three girls that gossiped among themselves, she listened in closely hoping to add some information to her records. All she learned was that Sasuke Uchiha was 'uber hot' and that the life of a princess can be soooo stressful and takes a toll on a young girl's condition. Hinata rolled her eyes as she tried not to look completely bored out of her mind. She slowed her pace and began to walk with the three boys who refused to talk to one another.
This is what I get for being nice and getting caught teaching some girls to fight, Hinata sighed and walked behind the group, keeping an eye on her surroundings and watching the group walk. As they came upon the building and entered, Hinata felt the eyes on her. She pulled up her hood and walked looking strait ahead and only glancing at the shinobi.
"Hey Hinata," Kiba waved and smiled at her and ran over to her. "It's nice that you came to visit."
Hinata shrugged, "I can't keep away when I know that someone is training without me." She grinned and looked over her shoulder to see that the royal kids have drifted off to different places and went on their own. Kankuro and Gaara began to talk with a few of the shinobi and Kankuro began to taunt a few into a spar. Karin and Temari followed Sakura up to her room, bored with the fighting and meetings. All that was left was Haku who stood at his father's side obediently. Hinata waved good bye to Kiba and ran over to Haku. "Hey," she said softly as he looked at her with surprise, but then smiled softly. "You looked lonely."
"Well," he shrugged, "I'm an only child, and I'm not really one to make friends." He smiled a bit sadly and looked forward, "but I know that I should stay by my father's side. In case he needs me."
Hinata looked at him with a playful smirk and went up to the Mizukage. She bowed before him, "Dear Lord Mizukage," she stood strait and smiled, "is it all right if I take Prince Haku on a tour, since it looks like the others have gone their own way?"
The Mizukage smiled devilishly and nodded, "Of course you can young Mage. Be back at the castle before the sun sets. "He spoke a bit loud so the others heard him and looked over to the three. The Kazekage glared at the Mizukage, angered that his son was the one getting close to the Mage and not his. Hinata bowed and grabbed Haku's hand, causing the prince to blush and another to growl in anger. Not to mention a few shinobi were a bit jealous of the Mist Prince; Hinata was oblivious to the whole thing. "Have fun you two," the Mizukage said mockingly as he looked at the Kazekage with a smile.
Hinata kept walking with Haku, still holding hands; she was taking him to her favorite spot on the castle grounds. There was a small man made lake and it was in the most secluded place Hinata knew of and to mention that all the growth of the bushes had cast a shadow over the lake. She smiled as she took his hand with both of hers and sat him down next to her at the lake shore. He smiled softly at her and still held her hand.
"Thank you for bringing me here Hinata-chan," he said as he bent his legs in front of him and put his arms on his knees. Hinata saw that Haku was at least two years older then herself and that he was well toned; she remember that he had lifted her up with great ease.
"You remember my name," she blushed and pulled down her hood.
"How could I forget a name that belonged to such a cute girl," he took her chin in his soft hand and gave a loving smile. "What kind of fool do you take me for Hinata-chan?"
"I don't see you as a fool Haku-sama-" he cut her off as he placed his thumb on her lips. Hinata couldn't help but blush at his soft touch, and Haku couldn't help but notice her soft lips.
"Call me Haku, no more of this '–sama' and all that 'prince' stuff." He smiled and took his thumb off her lips, much to his dislike.
Hinata exhaled the breath that she had held in. "Okay…Haku-k-kun." She said with a smiled and tried to pull away from his grip. He slowly let go, she leaned back and began to play with the water a bit. She brought her hand up and the water formed a small orb in her hand, giggling with bliss. Haku smiled and pulled Hinata between his legs; Hinata let out a small 'eep' and was a tomato red. "Wh-what i-is it Ha-Haku-kun?"
Haku put her hands in his, "Watch." She watched as Haku began to concentrate chakra to their hands and the small orb of water began to shift into an ice sculpture of a water Lilly. Hinata was left breathless and looked back at Haku who smiled down at her. Hinata was so close to his own face that Haku couldn't help but lean it a bit closer. Hinata's breath caught in her throat and felt his warm breath on her lips, her eyes began to close and so did Haku's. When their lips were just centimeters away, the sculpture shattered into a million pieces. Hinata and Haku looked away, trying to shield their faces and then looked back at the broken ice; it turned into water and slid through Hinata's fingers.
"I-I didn't do that, "Hinata said looking around, but in the corner of her eye she saw a pair of onyx eyes glaring at the two, as a six tails flicked dangerously to and fro. Hinata looked away and hoped that she was just seeing things. She looked back and saw that nothing was there, Hinata looked back over to Haku who had another statue in his hands, but this time it was an ice sculpture of Hinata in an elegant kimono. "That….that was fast Haku-kun."
He blushed and handed it to her, "This won't break as easy and it should last through the hottest of days. "He smiled at her and set it down in front of her. He stood up extending his hand out lifting Hinata to her feet. She let out a small gasp as Haku picked her up bridal style and walked out onto the water. "You didn't think I didn't know a few shinobi tricks did you Hinata-chan?" He smirked at her and set her down on the water; Hinata stood before him and he took her hands in his own. "I believe," he pulled her a bit closer, "we were interrupted before-" A hawk began a rhythmic cawing noise and the two teens frowned, "I guess that's our cue to leave."
"I believe so, "she smiled and began to walk off the lake, "but we can eat dinner together right?" He nodded and followed her back to the castle and they both walked hand in hand.
Hinata stood in front of the two large oak doors, waiting for the meeting to end. Tsunade had asked Hinata to make sure no one bothered the Kages and the Lord while they were in their meeting. Haku offered about to stand guard with Hinata, but Tsunade that the two other Kages were ready to battle out who got to spend time with the Mage. Hinata was a bit lonely and was really bored as she watched maids, Shinobi, and council members passed by the doors.
"Hello Mage-san," Hinata looked up to see Ino standing before her in an orange kimono. "Is Sakura-chan in there?" Hinata nodded a bit shocked to see Ino, it's been years since she's been face to face with her.
But, Ino didn't know that. No one but Kakashi and Tsunade knew that Hinata was once a Hyuga, or the heiress to said clan. She wonder how Hiashi would react that the daughter she had banished for being weak was now one of the youngest Mage, maybe Neji remembered her, and was still looking for her. The two were close as kids, even when Hizashi was lost in battle, Neji had went to her for comfort and Hinata gladly helped her beloved cousin in a time of need. Hanabi probably never knew that she had an older sister, and Hiashi would probably never tell her.
How Sakura react that the little girl she used to call 'white-eyed-freak' was the Mage that stood by her side and stood against the Akatsuki just days before? Hinata felt a bit giddy that no one would expect her to be where she was today. "Ne, Yamanaka-san," Hinata said softly to the blonde haired noble. "Do you know who I am?"
"Of course I do," she smiled at her before she walked away. "You're a respected Mage apprentice of Hatake-sama." Ino turned and walked away, "Tell Sakura-chan to meet me in the gardens."
Hinata nodded to herself, and sighed. "Now I'm stuck here alone again."
"Not really," she turned to see Gaara standing by her side rolling up his sand scroll. "You don't want to be in there either, its way worse." He smirked and put his scroll away and looked up at her, "Tell me Hinata, who was your mother?" Hinata stayed silent, "I remember," he went on, "that you said she died and that she was a mage before you. Do you care to elaborate?"
"She was the best," he looked at her with a bit of surprise. Hinata starred out the window before her with a smile showing in the shadows of her hood. "She was beautiful and she was my world. I remember the adventures she told me about before I went to bed and that she was always looking out for me, even when she knew I was wrong; she always took my side."
A single tear ran down her cheek, but she jumped when she saw Gaara whip the tear away with his thumb. "Do not cry," he said softly, "it is a sign of weakness and it does not suit your character." He gave a small smile and caressed her cheek with his rough and strong hands. "I do not know what it is like to have a mother but I wish I could have yours."
"Thanks you Prince of the Sand," she smiled softly as he took his hand away.
"Call me Gaara," he said looking away from her, "I'll see you again Hinata." He soon vanished in a small swirl of his sand and Hinata was left awe struck as the meeting ended and Kakashi opened the door for the Kages and Lord.
(One Month Later)
Hinata stood at the gate of the village, standing with Kakashi. "Goodbye guys, when I come back you better watch out!!" She smiled big, "I'll be a full fledged Mage!!" Hinata waved at her friends. Kiba, Shikamaru, Shino, Sasuke, and even Naruto came to see her off. TenTen and Lee stood along with their sensei's came, they were all crying saying they couldn't even say good bye the first time. Kakashi shook his head, but his two good friends' one last goodbye.
"Be safe Mage," Kaito smiled big as he stumbled to keep his balance. Hinata had cheeked in on Kaito and Lee to see that Lee was working him harder then ever and that Shenzu, his grandfather, was working Kaito in weaponry.
"Woah," Yume caught him and helped him keep on his feet. "We'll watch him Mage-chan, don't worry." Ami waved slowly since her nose was buried deep into a plant book, but all on medical plants. "Have fun," she gave Hinata the thumbs up.
"We better get going," Kakashi said with a soft smile. "By the time we get back, you'll think it's only been a few days. "Hinata nodded and the two walked out of the village giving one last wave. Hinata then grabbed the necklace around her neck and had a light pink blush painted her cheeks. The chocker necklace she wore had a black lace and a small vile full of Suna sand. Gaara had given it to her the day before he left to go back to his village. Hinata smiled and then thought of the ice sculpture that was safely tucked away in her drawer at her house, waiting to be put back on her dresser when she got back. But before she could leave for her travel, Wolf had met her once more, again, warning her not to interact with another male. Hinata gladly ignored him and even boasted that Gaara and Haku had given her a gift before they left. It was easy to see that Wolf was jealous but he shook it off and laughed at Hinata for trying to be tough. He left her, kissing her forehead and then disappearing into the night. She didn't sleep that night and took a solider pill instead once the sun came up.
Watch out Wolf, she smirked and walked in a prideful manner, the next time you see me, you're going to regret it.
Well I finally updated and I hope you like that I made it 4 pages longer then usual. I'm sorry I rushed through the month but I want to get to the good stuff when they are all 15/17(for a few of the peoples) I hope not all of you are too mad for the long wait. Plz leave me a nice little review ^_^ Ja ne
