Normal speech
Thought
Kyuubi/Nine-tails/Other big voices
InnerSakura
A/N:
Disclaimer
I do not own Naruto in any way, shape, or form, but I do own the OCs in this story… :-) This is merely for my, and hopefully everyone else's, enjoyment. Thank you!
Recap:
Hitomi: Yesterday when I heard your name and I caught your scent, I became intrigued. Last night I found your sister trying to sneak into your room. I put her under genjutsu and milked her for information. To keep from raising suspicion, I placed her in the garden… but before I could remove the genjutsu you showed up. I hadn't intended on fighting you so soon, but… I'm very glad that I had the chance! *smiles at Naruto* … I can tell that you have great potential to become a promising warrior, and I'm excited to see how much stronger you'll become. I apologize for going overboard with my genjutsu… *bows head*
Naruto: It's fine, it just means that there's something that I have to work on if I want to be really strong…! *smiling back*
Haruto: I'm sorry to break up this touching moment, but we have to get going or we'll be late for the rest of the tests…
Natsuki: Oh, right… Naruto, I'm sorry but if I'm to properly heal you, you're going to have to come along… Is that alright?
Naruto nodded as he slowly stood to his feet. He nearly fell until Yuuki caught him…
Yuu: Don't worry brother, I'll be your crutch if you need me…
They made their way out of the room and out of the manor…
Hitomi: Naruto is his name, eh… That look in his eyes, there's no doubt that he's…
Naruto and Hinata's grandparents and Sasuke, Yuuki, and Sakura finally arrived at their destination. It was a big building with seven rings on the front of it. They entered and soon found Hiashi's group, but there was one person missing…
Naruto: So what are we doing here?
Natsuki: Hinata and many others are going to appeal to "The Fallen" in a number of tests.
Naruto: "The Fallen"? Tests…?
Natsuki could see that Naruto didn't understand, so she explained…
Natsuki: "The Fallen" are those that have formerly held one of the seven specific titles Hinata and the others will be vying for. There are two positions, a male and a female, under each title and some have already been filled. Currently, there are only two spots under one title left. They'll be judging on how well the candidates are doing throughout the tests that they have received over the years.
xxxxxxxxxx
Natsuki: Naruto, you're going to have to stick as close to me as possible. That way your recovery will be quickened. I can inform you on things you don't understand, and you can keep me company. *smiles*
Naruto nodded and followed her to her seat in an outdoor auditorium near a small pond. The rest did the same as a small audience filed in as well. As they took their seats, Natsuki could tell that Naruto was still feeling the effects of his fight…
Natsuki: (chuckles)… Hitomi did quite the number on you… I'm sorry, but… I haven't seen her that happy in such a long time… Not since…
Naruto: What was with that old lady anyway? One minute she was trying to kill me and the next she couldn't stop smiling at me. She even seemed happy to see me…
Natsuki: … It's probably because of how you look. Even I can see it… you look very similar to her son. Being this close to you, I can also tell that you're as strong now as he was when he was around your age. It's very nostalgic…
Naruto: … Wha-… What ever happened to this guy?
Natsuki: She traveled when she got old enough to venture out on her own. Shortly after, she started a family of her own. When the kids were grown, she returned here and started working in our employ… *sadly looks down* ……… Her son died… a long time ago in a place far from here. We received word that he had died protecting his friends and family. Hitomi was never quite the same after that… *looks over at a sad looking Naruto* … That was until you arrived. She seemed to have cheered up instantly. She's most likely glad that you're here. I have to admit I am as well, I haven't seen my dear friend smile like that in so long… *smiles at Naruto*
xxxxxxxxxx
The judges were pleasantly surprised to see that most of the candidates had done very well with the tests so far. They had completed all but one. At the moment, they were in a brief recess…
Naruto: Wow Hinata…! You were great!
Yuu: You were so amazing!
Hinata: Do… Do you really think so?
Naruto: Yeah…
Sakura: If you keep it up, you could definitely win…
Natsuki: I agree… I knew you could do it!
Hiashi: At your word, she will come and live here…
Naruto: Huh? What? What are you saying!? If she stays here then she won't be living in the Leaf Village anymore…
Hiashi: Of course… It is for the best… She does take after her mother and her clan after all…
Hinata began to look depressed…
Naruto: But… that isn't right…! Why would you do something like that?
Hiashi: If she took more after the Hyuuga clan, then she would be the rightful heiress… but the circumstances are different. Instead she could be deemed one of the heads of this clan. If she is, then she needs to be with them. In order to do that, one of two things need to happen… She either moves to their village to be with them… or they move to the Leaf Village in order to follow her. Seeing as this has been their home for generations…
"He's right, you know…?"
Hinata: Daiki…
Daiki: It's what's best for her… staying here. It would just be easier to learn from and lead her people if she lived here.
Naruto: What are you saying?
Daiki: You should keep your nose out of it. This doesn't concern you…
Naruto+Yuu: What!!?
Daiki: You aren't a part of this clan, much less this village…
Naruto: Oh yeah…! And what makes you or this clan better than any other that it has the right to say that people aren't allowed to decide where or how they want to live…!?
Daiki: Don't you know…? We're said to be the "Angels of the land", "divine blessings" and perhaps the greatest in history. I believe that Hinata should stay here, among her own…
Naruto: Oh yeah…! *getting in his face* …You're not so great! Besides, it should be up to Hinata whether or not she stays or goes!
Natsuki: You don't have to worry about something like that for at least a couple of years… *getting the boys' attention* … I would love it if she were to stay, and although she is progressing nicely, it's not yet time. She still isn't quite ready.
Sakura: And why is that?
Natsuki: In our clan, the abilities one is capable of using isn't the only way to tell one's development. The number of halos and the size and shape of the wings is also taken into account. It's a sign of growth. The abilities, the wings, and the number of halos all differ with each individual to sum up one's development. Although her wings look like that of a "fairy-princess", I believe that Hinata has great potential within herself.
Daiki: Exactly…! And the best way for her to reach that potential is to stay here…
Naruto: You know what…!
"It is now time to go through with the final test. The candidates will be showing how graceful and powerful they are by displaying," a judge stated.
Naruto didn't get a chance to speak his mind as Hinata and the others had to return to the front…
Naruto: HEY…!! Where are you going!? I'm not finished with you…!!
Daiki: Oh but you are… We're quite finished here… I don't have time to waste on the likes of you!
Naruto: Why you…!!
Natsuki couldn't take her eyes off of Naruto as he continued to pout in his seat…
Natsuki: You know… you shouldn't take what Daiki said to heart. I'm sure he didn't mean it… at least a little bit of it. It's just… sometimes young boys do silly things for girls they like…
Naruto: Yeah, I know what you mean pretty well. He… Wait a minute, he likes her. Is that what that was all about?
Natsuki: I don't even think he's the only one. Because of how kind she is, and her ties to a noble clan in the Leaf Village, Daiki's taken a particular liking to her. Can you blame him for something like that…?
Naruto: *scrunches up face* … Yeah, well… You would think that if he really cared for her the way you say he does, he would want to see her happy. For that to happen, she should be allowed to make her own decisions.
Natsuki: You're right… It's entirely up to her whether she stays or goes… but I wonder what she would decide if he proposed to her…
Naruto: Pro-… Propose? He… He couldn't possibly do something like that. They're both still too young to get married, right?
Natsuki: They are, but that doesn't mean that they can't arrange it for the future. It happens all the time… If that were to happen, she may then have a reason to stay… If someone else professed feelings for her other than Daiki… then maybe she could take the time while she finishes her development to come to a decision about who she wants to be with and where her home will be.
Naruto: She… She couldn't possibly mean me… could she? Hold… Hold on there! You can't mean me, I… I don't think of her in that way. We're… We're just friends… I'd be leading her on if I did something like that…
Natsuki: I'm not saying that you should or shouldn't, I'm just throwing it out there. Even if you don't think you have those kinds of feelings for her… do you really want to see her do anything she doesn't want to? You seemed to be kind of upset about it before…
The guys' portion had come to an end and the girls made their way to the front. Daiki quickly grabbed the attention of the audience…
Daiki: I would like to take this opportunity to announce that when this is over, one day I plan to marry Hinata Hyuuga…
Everyone was shocked at this sudden change in the atmosphere, Hinata and Akira more than anyone.
Akira: WHA-… WHAT!!!? What does he mean by that?! Why Hinata?!
Daiki: With her help, we can procure and maintain a healthy relationship with the Leaf Village. Most importantly, I know she would make a great wife…
Naruto: LIKE HELL SHE WOULD!! *jumps up from his seat*... *realizes what he said* …I-I mean, I'm sure she'll make a great wife one day, but… there's no way she'll be your wife now! You can't just decide things yourself!! *begins swaying*
Daiki: This has nothing to do with you…! Why do you have to keep butting in?
Naruto: *regains himself* …She's my friend and I care about her…! More importantly, she's a person! If you want me to butt-out, then you should think of her as one instead of a way of gaining a little more power!
Daiki: Like I keep saying, this isn't any of your business…
Naruto: Yeah, well I'm making it my business!!
Daiki: Are you serious? Are you… Are you challenging me for Hinata's hand?
Naruto: *scrunches up face* … Well… not really. I'm not really looking to get married anytime soon… But I won't let you or anyone else marry her for selfish reasons!!
Hinata: Naruto…
Daiki: Very well then… We'll settle this tomorrow. If I win, then you'll have to stay out of this matter and if you win, I'll drop it for the time being…
Naruto: Fine! *sits back down*
Why Do You Fight?
Yuu: My brother's so cool! A little thick-headed, but cool!
Kurenai: Oh boy…
Shino: Here we go…
Sakura: That idiot…!
Sasuke: Always getting himself into fights…
Neji: He just can't seem to control himself…
Kiba: What's he thinking!?
Naruto: I'LL PULVERIZE THAT CREEP!!
Hiashi: Doesn't that boy know anything about restraint…?
Kakashi: (Sigh)… I'll definitely be hearing about this later…
Haruto: Now that that has come to a momentary conclusion, let's get on with things…
It was now the girls' turn. Instead of showing their skills through a display of raw power, they would do it through grace. First up would be Hikari followed by Mitsuko, then Akira…
Like ballerinas, they twirled and danced across the stage beautifully. They drifted through the air as their wings fluttered and shined in the sunlight. Of the three, one stood out the most.
Akira skillfully showed her ability through elegant movement. Her four fairy-like wings sparkled exquisitely as she danced about. The crowd was in awe until she was done with her performance. They then exploded with applause.
Akira: Ha… Let's see you beat that…! I don't know what Daiki sees in you, but after that performance I'm sure he'll have a change of heart…
Done, Akira walked back to her place in line. It was now Hinata's turn. She would have a hard time winning over the crowd and the judges after Akira's performance. She hesitantly stepped before the crowd and the judges and prepared to put on her display.
Daiki: Go for it Hinata…! You'll do great! I know you will…!
Akira was upset by this and began staring daggers at both Daiki and Hinata. This just made her nervousness worse. She figured that after all that she had done, she may as well do it and get it over with…
She began to move with the crowd's eyes focused on her and her alone. She tried her best to imitate what she had seen and … she tripped and fell.
Sakura: Oh no…!
Kurenai: Hinata…
Hanabi: I… I hope she's alright…
Natsuki: She'll be just fine. All she has to do is keep up the effort…
Hiashi: Her lack of confidence could be her downfall. She's always had trouble with the both the Hyuuga style and her mother's clan.
Hinata began to sit up but it could be seen that she was embarrassed. She wouldn't even try to stand to her feet.
Natsuki: She looks as though she's lost her nerve. If she doesn't continue, then she won't have any chance of proceeding.
"She has a habit of tripping over her robe," one of the judges whispered.
"You would think that she would get over her clumsiness and be used to being in front of a crowd by now," another stated.
Haruto: Now, now…
Naruto began to shake in his seat. He couldn't stand that Hinata had come so far and was ready to just throw all her time and effort out the window…
Naruto: Grrrr… COME ON HINATA…! I KNOW YOU CAN DO IT!! YOU'VE COME THIS FAR, SO DON'T JUST GIVE UP!! AT LEAST TRY YOUR BEST! IF YOU FALL, GET UP AND TRY AGAIN! JUST KEEP IT UP UNTIL YOU'RE FINISHED! IT'S NOT OVER UNTIL IT'S OVER!!
Sakura+Yuu+Natsuki: Naruto…
Daiki: This kid and his big mouth again… He does nothing but disrupt things…!
Hinata: Naruto…
A look of focus and determination appeared on her face. She pulled herself together and stood to her feet. She graciously bowed to the judges and politely informed them that she was going to try once more, but this time… this time she would do her best!
She took a deep breath and began. Like the others, she twirled and gracefully floated through the air. Her wings glistened in the setting sun as she hovered over the small pond. She touched down and spun on her toes as she danced across the pond. The water splashed and sparkled in her radiant light. She had magnificently blended the two styles from her father and mother's clans. The audience was mesmerized by her actions and uniqueness. Once done, she bowed and stepped out of the "spotlight" so that the judges could announce their decision.
The judges seemed to be talking amongst themselves. They had the contestants sit in with the audience while they discussed what would happen next. Hinata had done her best and hoped that it was good enough…
Natsuki: *Hinata walking up* …See…!? That's exactly what we've waited for! I told you that you had great potential…!
"I have to admit, I had my doubts… but the vast improvement that's been made in just one year's time is remarkable. For that, we still have a ways to go before rendering a final decision."
"Perhaps she is worth considering for the title," one of the elder judges said.
"If she had done that when it was asked of her, we would have been done with this already," another stated.
Haruto: We, "The Fallen", have come to a decision… We commend those that have given their best and showed how extraordinary they truly are. For the young males, we have chosen to award the title to Daiki for his excellence… And for the young ladies… we are still unsure…
The crowd gasped and began their murmurs could be heard as they whispered to themselves…
Haruto: Although we are indecisive about this matter, we have come to the conclusion that two of the ladies that did the best will be allowed to continue on and hopefully in a matter of a year or so, we will be able to honor one of them with the title. They are… Akira…
This wasn't much of a surprise to anyone, especially Akira. Upon hearing her name she jumped out front and blew kisses and waved to the crowd…
Haruto: … and my precious granddaughter, Hinata…
Akira was shocked and livid to hear Hinata's name announced. Hinata was pretty surprised herself. She thought that after all the times she had messed up over the years, and today obviously, surely she was out of the running.
Natsuki: Many great things require patience. I knew that you could do it all along, but I also suspect that there was a reason that you shined brightly today of all days…
Hinata: Hm… Where's Naruto?
After witnessing Hinata's performance, something in Naruto was urging him to train. He wanted to become stronger and was very amped to start a new training session. He had left the auditorium and was now at the training ground at the manor.
Naruto: Well, I guess that that grandma's jutsu won't work when I'm so far away… *halos dissipate*
Hitomi: Of course, she explained it to you, right…? Even Natsuki has her limits…
Naruto: Old lady…
Hitomi: So… what are you up to?
Naruto: I'm training…! I have to become stronger!
Hitomi: Oh… That's good to hear. You're pretty strong already and it's nice that you're not so stuck-up about it.
Naruto: Yeah… Hey, old lady… in our fight, you said something about "losing to a star"… I guess you meant someone that could use techniques from the Star clan… Have you ever fought one?
Hitomi: (Sigh)… Nothing against you, or "Star warriors" kid… I just don't really care for them and their techniques. They developed them just to compete with us back in the day. They were our rivals and were considered very good fighters. I've fought a few in my day… before they were all wiped out that is…
Naruto: WHAT!!? WHAT DO YOU MEAN THEY WERE WIPED OUT!!?
Hitomi: Don't get the wrong idea… I didn't even take part in the downfall of that clan. It just sort of happened.
Naruto: And why was that?
Hitomi: I'm not sure… it was around… that time… *a saddened look*
Naruto knew exactly what she meant by this. He tried to quickly change the subject…
Naruto: S-So… Grandma Natsuki said that you've worked for her for a long time now… Why is someone like you a servant?
Hitomi: My role, as well as other dragons, is more of that of protectors than servants for this clan. Natsuki and I have been friends ever since we were little. She's always been there for me and I hope to be there for her the same way. It's natural since our two clans have been on good terms and supporting the other for generations.
Naruto: Things are that good, huh?
Hitomi: Yeah, we have their backs and they have our tails. We're seen as equals in this village and among the clan, though… some are too high and mighty to acknowledge such a thing, thinking that they're so great…
Naruto: Yeah…! I just had a run-in with a jerk like that. I'm gonna destroy that guy!!
Hitomi: Who… Who are you talking about?
Naruto: This guy named Daiki. He was acting all snooty. I can't wait until our fight tomorrow so I can knock him off his high horse!
Hitomi: You're gonna fight him, huh…? This could be bad…
Naruto: What!? What do you mean?
Hitomi: Even though he's arrogant and talks big, he can back it up. He's one of the stronger youngsters of his age.
Naruto: That doesn't matter to me…! I'm gonna beat that guy and knock some sense into him!
Hitomi: Heh… *smiles* …Well if you're gonna do that, then I'd better let you get to your training…
Naruto: Wait… Do you think you could teach me how to use Dragon techniques better and that genjutsu you used against me?
Hitomi: I don't think so… You should hone your own unique skills. You would do a lot better fighting with your own style than someone else's.
Naruto: Really?
Hitomi: Sure… Besides… I'd like to see if you can actually beat someone on your own…
Naruto: What was that!!?
Hitomi: Heh… Just don't lose too quickly; I'd like to enjoy it at least for a little bit… Later… *walks away*
Naruto: *fuming* …What!!? I'll show you, you old hag!! I'll mop the floor with that guy and then I'll do the same to you!!
The others arrived at the manor. After a long day like this, they would take this time to relax in peace and quiet while they could. Some of them, on the other hand, didn't want to take this opportunity for a little r&r because they were concerned for a certain little blonde.
As soon as they got back, Hinata walked off on her own. A little curious, some of the other youngsters followed. They went around back to the training ground to find it a little messy… as if a bomb had went off…!
Kiba: What happened here?
They looked around to see Naruto on the ground huffing and puffing…
Shino: I think there's your answer…
Sakura: Naruto…!! What are you thinking, doing something like this?! Don't you have enough common sense not to destroy other people's property?!
Natsuki: It's perfectly fine… This devastation is nothing we can't repair…
Sakura: A… Are you sure?
She just smiled and walked over to Naruto…
Natsuki: How has your training gone?
Naruto: … Pretty… good… I just… I still… feel a little… exhausted…
Natsuki: Well of course… You still haven't properly recovered. Perhaps… you should take the rest of this time to rest…
Naruto: I can't! *struggles to sit upright* …I can't waste any time. I don't know what that guy is capable of so I have to be prepared for anything! I won't lose!! I…
He finally made it to his feet… only to be overtaken by his condition once more. He toppled over and crashed to the ground…
Hinata: Naruto…
Natsuki: Don't fret… I'll have him up and ready to go by tomorrow…
She looked up and a thought came to her…
Natsuki: Hinata, you've been practicing with your healing jutsu, right?
Hinata: Yes…
Natsuki: Then I'm going to show you the best way to utilize your ability. Watch closely…
She cycled through her seals slowly so that Hinata could better learn. She built up her chakra and removed the halo from her head and placed it on Naruto's.
Natsuki: Why don't you give it a try…? If you can, then I'll let you take over with Naruto's recovery. In order to properly heal him in time for tomorrow's event, you may have to spend the remaining time with him as close as possible.
Hinata began to blush…
Yuu: Hey, do you think I could learn something like that? I'm always close to him anyway, so with something like this, I could be more useful…
Sakura: That isn't a bad idea… I'd like to be more useful sometimes as well…
Natsuki: Sorry, this jutsu is only usable by members of our clan with a knack for healing and chakra control…
Yuu: Aww… I guess I have to find some other kind of way to help my brother then…
Natsuki warmly smiled at Yuuki and told her to do her best. She then looked to Hinata who seemed to be struggling with the jutsu. She couldn't seem to do it…
Natsuki: It's ok, just keep trying… For the time being, I'll see to Naruto…
Hinata was sorely disappointed. She was thrilled to hear that with this jutsu she would get the chance to be around Naruto without it being so awkward. Maybe if she could just get the opportunity, she could finally tell Naruto how she felt.
Later…
Natsuki and Naruto finally walked in just in time for dinner…
Yuu: Brother…!
Kiba: So, how did your training go? Did you pass out again?
Kiba's smirk washed from his face as he saw how irritated Yuuki looked…
Naruto: Heh… There was a moment when I almost did…
Natsuki: His training was intense. I've had a hard time healing his injuries because a short afterward, he would just do something reckless to earn himself more. I'm kind of glad we're done for the day. I was getting a little worried that he would seriously hurt himself…
Sakura: That sounds like Naruto… going overboard with everything…
Naruto: I don't go overboard with everything. You're just exaggerating… *sniffs the air* … Well, maybe there's one thing that I could get a little crazy with…
Sakura: What's that?
Naruto: Dinner!! I haven't eaten all day and I'm starved!!
Later that night…
After stuffing his face and cleaning himself up after all he'd been through, Naruto bumped into Hinata on the way to his room…
*THUD*
Hinata: Oh… I-I'm… I'm sorry…
Naruto: It's alright… I was looking for you…
Hinata: You… You were… looking for me…?
Naruto: Yeah… I wanted to ask you something…
Hinata: Oh… Wha-What did you want to ask?
Naruto: Hey, Hinata… you know this Daiki guy, right?
Hinata: Ye-Yeah… I guess…
Naruto: That's great! What can you tell me about the way he fights? What can he do?
Hinata: The way he fights…? Weren't you watching back at the auditorium?
Naruto thought back to that time. After his argument with Daiki, Naruto was too upset to pay proper attention to anything else. He vaguely recalled hearing Daiki's name announced, but he paid no attention to the proceedings.
Naruto: *nervous chuckle* Hehe… I… was a little distracted… Hehe…
Hinata: Well… he's able to do the same things I can do… and more…
Naruto: *blank expression* … That wasn't really helpful…
Hinata: I-I'm sorry… He usually brags about being able to use clan jutsus, but during the event, he didn't do anything unusual.
Naruto: Aw man…! I'm not sure what I should work on since I don't know what to expect!
"You shouldn't worry so much about it… You're my brother, the future Hokage of the Leaf Village!" Yuuki said coming up behind Hinata.
Naruto: *blank look* … That doesn't really help either…
Hinata: Yu-Yuuki's right…! As long as I've known you, you've always managed to figure something out no matter how many tries it took! I believe you'll win…
Naruto: Yeah, I guess you're right… If I try hard enough, I can do anything! You have my word, Hinata… I won't lose!
Hinata and Yuuki smiled as Naruto walked past them…
Hinata: I hope he's fully recovered… It'll be alright, won't it Yuuki?
She turned around only to realize that she was talking to herself. She had no idea where Yuuki had disappeared to, but she would soon find out…
Naruto: Yu… Yuuki!? What are you doing in here? This is the boys' room!
Yuu: I'm gonna sleep in here with you to make sure no weird old ladies try to kidnap you!
Naruto: You can't be in here, you're a girl!
Yuu: What's the big deal? The others don't have anything you don't… There's nothing I haven't seen before… except Kakashi sensei's face…
*Crash*
Kiba: Hey, knock it off you crazy girl!
Naruto: Go back and sleep in your room!
*Crash-Thud*
Hinata: (nervous chuckle)… She sure is bold…
Next day…
Yuuki woke up bright and early. She got dressed and made a beeline for the boys' room. The door flung open to a bunch of shirtless guys, but…
Yuu: Huh? Where's Naruto?
Naruto was on the training grounds, sitting cross-legged, thinking quietly to himself…
"Um… Na… Naruto… what are you doing out here so early?"
Naruto: Ah… Hinata… Good morning…
Hinata: Good morning…
Naruto: I was thinking about today…
Hinata: A-Are you alright?
Naruto: Yeah, a little sore, but there's nothing to worry about.
Hinata: That's good… Um, Naruto… you… you don't have to do this… for me…
Naruto: Well, do you want to get engaged to that guy and stay here instead of the Leaf Village?
Hinata: …… Well… I don't… I don't think I'm ready for something like that… and I don't really want to leave the Leaf Village… I just…
Naruto: You don't know how to break it to that guy Daiki and your grandparents…
Hinata: ...R-Right… H-How did you…
Naruto: Because I know you, at least a little. You don't seem to be the type to speak her mind… even when you really should… like that time with Neji…
Hinata: Maybe I should speak up for myself… I don't want to see you get hurt. I couldn't stand it… You don't have to fight for me…
Naruto: That's good, 'cause I wouldn't want to let you down if you needed me.
Hinata: Huh?
Naruto: This makes things easier on me. Whether I win or lose, I'll be able to enjoy the fight like I should… *smiles big*
Hinata: Naruto…
Naruto: By the way, Hinata… out of me and that other guy, which one of us do you like better?
Hinata: Wha-What!!? Why is he asking me something like this so suddenly…? What should I say?
*BONK*
"What do you think you're doing, asking her something like that out of the blue? Now's not the time!"
Hinata looked over to see Naruto laid out with a big knot on his head. Sakura was standing over him shaking her fuming fist.
At the auditorium…
A crowd had gathered to watch the fight. Among the onlookers was "The Fallen"…
"Now, if everyone is ready… we would like to begin the match between the village favorite, Daiki, and the visitor, Naruto Uzumaki," one said.
Daiki wore white and blue clothing. He wore long white shorts with blue at the bottom and blue ninja sandals. His white sleeveless hooded shirt had blue lines forming a cross in the center that matched his white and blue gloves. He also had a longsword at his side.
Daiki: Well, Uzumaki… you have some guts to show up here today. I figured by yesterday's display that you didn't have enough sense to back down, but… at least you received one compliment from me.
Naruto: Did we come here to hear you run your mouth all day, or did we come to fight…!?
Daiki: Eager to lose, are we, Uzumaki? Very well then… I suppose that the sooner I defeat you, the sooner you stay out of our business…!
Naruto: Yeah… we'll see…
Haruto: If you're done with the formalities, you may begin…
They briefly stared each other down. With a gust of wind, the fight finally began. Both combatants charged and threw a punch. They both caught the others' and it turned into a grapple match. They both bared their teeth with menacing looks in their eyes…
Daiki: Grr… Heh… It figures that you have great physical strength with what you are… *being forced back* … but you lack finesse…
Naruto: What?
Daiki fell back and flipped Naruto over him. Naruto landed on his back and both sprang back to their feet. Once again, they turned and stared each other down…
Naruto: If that's the best you got, then this is gonna be a lot easier than I thought…
Daiki: Hmph… If that's what you believe, then you're more pathetic than I originally thought… I guess I'll have to educate you on knowing your place…
Naruto: Let's see you try…!!
Naruto charged right for Daiki who stood his ground. He threw an obvious punch which Daiki elegantly evaded. This continued until Naruto stopped to take a few breaths…
Naruto: Why don't you… stand and… fight…?
Daiki: There's no point when your movements are so obvious and sluggish… I don't even have to exert any unnecessary energy to avoid your attacks. You're in over your head…
Naruto: Is that what you think? I guess that I should kick it up a notch…
He charged again, ready to knock Daiki's block off. Daiki stepped to the side, avoiding the first punch. Naruto brought it back and his opponent ducked. Daiki then tried to connect with an uppercut. Using his left arm, Naruto caught and hooked Daiki's blow. With an open palm, Naruto struck his opponent's face and caused his head to whip back.
He hit with a few more palm thrusts to the face before changing to a closed fist. Daiki's head violently whipped back and he fell to the ground. He checked his nose and blood was streaming from it. This angered him. He spun on the ground trying to trip up Naruto, but he jumped back.
Daiki: I… I can't believe… Do you see what you've done!?
Naruto: Haven't you ever been in a fight before?
Daiki: Of course I have… No one's ever done this to me! You… You... degenerate buffoon...!
Naruto: Oh… you're insulting me again… *sarcastically* …I'm soo hurt… You know, if you fought as good as you talked, then maybe you wouldn't be there with a bleeding nose…
Daiki was visibly upset and Naruto could hear growls coming from him…
Naruto: Growling…? Is that your stomach? What…? Are you this weak because you didn't eat any breakfast? You're kind of full of yourself, don't you think?
Daiki: That's it!! I'm going to put you in your place and make sure you never forget it!!
He cycled through his seals and five chakra rings appeared. From his back, big white wings burst. With an intense glare, Daiki attacked…
Naruto received a quick punch to the face that caused him to stumble back. Another hard punch to the gut followed by rabbit punches to any opening sent Naruto reeling.
Akira: That Uzumaki kid's gonna lose ya know… *blows landing in the background* …There's hardly anyone in our age group that can beat him. Even the older ones have a hard time with him…
Yuu: What do you know!? My brother isn't some weakling! He'll win this fight and put that guy in his place like he always does!
Akira: Tch! Fat chance… He may give him some trouble, but there's no way Daiki's gonna lose this fight… Even though I never wanted something like this so bad!
Naruto rolled back across the ground. Once he stopped, he began to stand up, his hood over his head…
Daiki: Why don't you just give up…!? You won't win…! I won't allow it!
Naruto: Heh… I've been hearing about how strong everyone thinks you are, and now I now… they were right! I'm excited to be fighting someone strong like you, it only seems right. I don't think it would be as fun or interesting to if you weren't…
He lifted his head completely and flashed a big, toothy grin. This surprised Daiki. After all of that, this guy wanted to fight even more.
Daiki: Very well… You want to continue until neither of us can stand… I'll oblige you then…
He flew right at Naruto and barely missed. He turned back and once again narrowly missed. He attempted a flying kick but was caught by Naruto. He slammed him into the ground and held onto Daiki's leg tightly.
Daiki groaned in pain as Naruto increased the pressure on his leg. Any more and it could break. Daiki managed to squirm and turn his way out of Naruto's hold. Naruto quickly grabbed him by his leg before he could get away and slammed him on his back. He picked him up to do the same, but with one big flap of his wings, Daiki stopped and rolled Naruto off of him.
Naruto stopped himself and launched another attack. Daiki sprang from the ground and did the same. Both threw a straight right and connected with a sickening thud echoing through the air.
Blood dripped to the ground as the crowd watched in awe. It dripped from both boys' mouths and Daiki's nose. They just grinned and the crowd went wild and wanted more. The combatants had no problem in giving them what they wanted. They both wanted to bash in the other's face as best they could.
Naruto would be the one to start it off by landing a crushing blow to Daiki's jaw. He immediately retaliated. The two traded blows until Naruto had had enough. After taking one on the chin and receiving an intense shot to the ribs he unwrapped his tail, reared back, and with all his might delivered a devastating punch that knocked him back and caused him to bounce backward. Daiki was shook up.
Daiki: Damn… I should have known that I couldn't just trade blows with him… he's got too much brute strength. I'll have to take another approach…
Battered and bruised, Daiki shakily made his way back to his feet. Naruto wasted no time in making his move. Daiki cycled through his seals as Naruto was right on him. Naruto threw a punch but it was blocked… by a wall of chakra. Naruto backed off to get a good look at what it was…
Naruto: (Groans)! *shakes hand* … Huh? That's…
Naruto thought back to the first time he had seen this technique. He recalled when he and the pervy sage searched for Tsunade. Hinata had used this very same technique to protect Naruto from Kabuto's attack.
Daiki: Ah… You seem to know what this technique is…
Naruto: Yeah… I first saw it when Hinata used something similar to protect me…
Daiki: More like the very same. The user turns their chakra rings, or "halos", into a shield of chakra. But for her to protect you…! Tch! You really are pathetic! You're fighting for her and you need her to cover your scaly tail…
Naruto: What can I say…? I was vulnerable and she came to my rescue… It's what friends do! I'd do the same for her anytime…
Hinata: Naruto…
Akira: Just what is their relationship? Is she only leading Daiki on? *eyeing Hinata* … If this other guy is willing to go so far for you, why aren't you with him instead of trying to gain Daiki's affections?
Hinata: *shocked* …Wha-… What?!!
Naruto: Get ready for the beating of your life…! *takes out 3 kunai* …"SHADOW CLONE JUTSU"!!
Naruto made his sign and created a handful of clones. They charged and began weaving in and out to confuse the opponent. The four attacking stopped weaving and separated, revealing one in the far back throwing shuriken…
The shuriken were blocked by Daiki's chakra ring defense. The two that tried to attack from the sides were cut-off by the same defense, and the two remaining that attacked from above were turned back in the same fashion.
Naruto: What…? Five…!? How is that possible?! Hinata could only use two!
Daiki: The effectiveness of this defense depends on the user's skill. Someone with great skill and ability can create a chakra defense for each halo they possess.
Naruto: Someone like you…
Daiki: Obviously… The user becomes capable of deflecting any attack. You would need a great amount of force to break through… even through mine.
Naruto: What do you mean?
Daiki: The members of my clan, though great, aren't perfect. The majority excel only in one or two of three different areas. Hinata seems to be better suited to healing and defense while I'm more balanced, with the exception of my attacks being my strong point…
Naruto: Well… *crouching* …if I can't force my way through your defense… I'll just have to find some way around… *wagging his tail*
All the Narutos hunched over and prepared to launch their assault. Daiki watched as they seemed to flicker in place. Before he knew it, he felt a sharp pain in his gut followed by things going black due to being punched in the face. He quickly retreated to the sky to avoid any further damage.
Daiki: Oh… my head… *shakes it off*
He then heard gasps and whispers coming from the crowd. He looked down and noticed that something liquid was dripping from his body. He wiped it up with his hand and realized that he was now bleeding. He had a tear in his shirt along his abdomen and a shallow slash underneath.
Daiki: You…!!
He took out some of his ninja tools and hurled them at the Narutos. A shower of ninja tools rained from the sky… but none of them hit because Naruto kept up his "Shadow Star" technique.
Furious, Daiki dropped more and more weapons on the Narutos… but to no avail. He was so infuriated that he didn't even notice the ninja tools coming his way. During the last "drop", the Narutos threw a few of their own. They shredded through Daiki and he dropped from the sky.
Daiki: …… What am I doing? I'm letting this reptile get the better of me… I'm disgracing myself with this showing… I have to turn things around!
He snapped out of his funk just as he was about to crash and pulled up just in time. He flew back into the air, cycled through seals, and withdrew his sword.
Naruto: What is this guy up to?
Naruto: I don't know… but we'd better be careful.
Daiki placed his hand over his wound and began healing before he dove from the sky…
Narutos: HE'S COMING RIGHT FOR US!!
He dive-bombed one Naruto and eliminated him. He exploded from the cloud of smoke and nearly took another's head off. The others tried to catch him before he could escape to the air again. One slashed at him but was denied by Daiki's chakra defense. Daiki returned the favor by cutting the Naruto in half. He drilled directly through the next clone and, using his defense, forced the next into the air. He released his jutsu and the Naruto plummeted to the earth. The last remaining Naruto used his body as a cushion and they disappeared in a cloud of smoke.
Daiki: Hm… So that was the real one… I had no idea. Why did the clone save him instead of him just sprouting wings and flying?
Suddenly, a beam of chakra exploded from the cloud of smoke. Daiki quickly activated his defense but was forced back even though he tried to resist.
Naruto: "Dragon Wave"!!
Daiki managed to successfully stave off Naruto's attack, but… a small explosion sent him reeling.
Daiki: Grr… His attack…! The collision of his chakra attack with my own caused a negative reaction. Luckily I could block it. As long as I keep my distance, I should be able to win this…
Naruto: Just now… he used his shield to block my attack, but the exploded on contact. I may be able to use that to my advantage… "SHADOW CLONE JUTSU"!!
He created a bunch of clones. They all took out ninja tools and targeted Daiki. He used his defense to block it. He managed to repel the weapons and noticed multiple beams of chakra coming his way…
Daiki: Shi-…!!
Daiki disappeared in a huge cloud of smoke as numerous explosive sounds reverberated throughout the auditorium. In that cloud, Daiki managed to withstand the assault but he was trembling from the shock. With his vision blurred, Naruto took this chance to strike…
Narutos: "STAR SHOWER"!!!
Through the smoke came many red head, red-eyed Narutos. They smashed into him and dispersed. Daiki fell but flew back up. The wound on his abdomen began bleeding more heavily then before, but this time he wouldn't have time to tend to it…
More Narutos were hurled at Daiki in a similar way as before. This time however, they couldn't catch him off-guard. He quickly activated his defense, disarming this attempt. Once again he was surrounded by smoke…
Daiki: It's useless… you can't get around my defense. And if you can't do that, then I've won this match… I'll win whether it's on the ground or in the air…!
Naruto: We'll see about that…!! *entering the smoke cloud*
Daiki: Wha-…!!?
Naruto: "PULSING WAVE"!!!
Naruto collided with Daiki's shield and overcame it by using his chakra to force his way through. Everyone, especially Daiki, was surprised by this. Though he was shocked at this turn of events, Daiki turned this inconvenient circumstance into an opportunity.
Naruto had broken through but Daiki grabbed his sword and ran him through. He and everyone else were expecting smoke, but… Naruto reached up and grabbed his arm.
Sakura: Oh no…!
Hinata: Naruto…!
Daiki: You… You fool! You said it yourself…! She's nothing more than a friend to you… and yet… here you are, dieing by my sword for someone who's just your "friend". It makes no sense! There has to be more to it that you're not saying…! Why do you fight?!
Naruto: At first… I had no idea why I was sticking up for Hinata. She could decide to stay or go, and as far as I can tell, you don't seem to be the kind of guy that would force your will on her… I still don't get why I'm doing this, but the thought of someone else forcing her to leave to stay in a far away place… She's my friend… isn't that enough…!?
Daiki: … That maybe, but now you're at the end of my blade… Just what did you plan on doing?!
Naruto: Heh… I planned… on… keeping you… preoccupied just long enough…
Daiki: Preoccupied…? Then this…
Naruto: A distraction… *grins – disappears in smoke*
Narutos: "DRAGONS' WRATH"!!
A group of white haired, red-eyed Narutos launched a wave of red chakra beams directed at Daiki. A massive explosion of red filled the sky…
The sky turned red as the Narutos' attacks found their mark… Unfortunately it wasn't the right mark. Daiki was now rapidly falling from the sky in a dizzying dive. It couldn't be seen if he was doing it purposely or if it wasn't his choice. The only known truth was that if he continued to fall the way he was, he would undoubtedly be a goner.
A few of the Narutos ran over to try and save Daiki. Before he crashed, he regained consciousness and tried to right himself. He crashed into the Narutos that tried to break his fall and hit the ground.
Akira: Is… Is he ok? *tears forming*
The clones that sacrificed themselves to break his fall dispersed. Daiki began to move shortly after…
Naruto: It's over… We don't need to go any further…
Daiki: Tch! It's not over… not… not until… I make Hinata my fiancé…! *trembles and collapses*
Naruto: You're still on that…!? Let it go! You can't marry her anytime soon, so this is pointless…
Daiki: With her as my bride, I will be seen as a great man among my clan for allying our separate clans with the marriage alone. Our children will also have just as much potential as her. You say it's pointless… but you're fighting just as hard as I am for her… Why?!
Naruto: Did you hear what you just said…!? If you won't give her the choice, I won't let you have her!
Daiki: Heh…! That's valiant of you… but… you haven't won yet!
He flapped his wings and quickly took to the sky before the other Narutos could restrain him. Grimacing, he cycled through his seals and his halos disappeared…
Daiki: "NINJA ART: HEAVENLY DOWNPOUR – ANGEL FALLS"!! (1)
His chakra rings appeared under him. Out of nowhere, a waterfall fell from the sky. The water washed and swept the Narutos off their feet. A few of them were smashed into a standing pillar on the far side of the auditorium. It even splashed into the crowd and washed away some of the spectators.
It finally stopped and the area was drenched. All the clones were gone and a lone blonde lay near the cracked pillar, coughing up water. Daiki landed and walked over to him. He cycled through seals, placed Naruto's feet together, and his chakra rings appeared.
Daiki: "Holy Cross"!
Naruto spit up water as he was now propped up with a halo around each wrist and his ankles. Daiki's remaining halos were around his wrists and began to rapidly spin. He casually approached a struggling Naruto…
Daiki: Struggle all you want… you won't be escaping so easily.
Naruto continued to struggle and wriggle, hoping to somehow force himself free before it was too late…
Daiki: "Divine… Punishment"!
He drew back and began pummeling Naruto with blow after blow. Naruto could feel his ribs crack as Daiki's assault came to a pause. They locked eyes as Daiki pulled back and his other halo appeared around one wrist. With it, he drove his fist deep into Naruto's abdomen, knocking the breathe out of Naruto and freeing him.
Naruto rolled across the ground. For a brief moment, he stopped moving before finally gasping for air. Daiki approached the hunched over blonde, grabbed Naruto by his tail, and hoisted him up…
Daiki: Like I said before, you can't win… because it's only right that Hinata be with her own kind. She belongs here, with us…! With me…!
Naruto: So you want her to stay here… you want to be closer to her. That's understandable… *gasps for air* …but forcing her to stay where she doesn't want to isn't fair to her. Don't you think that it should be her decision to stay here or leave…!!?
Daiki: Of… Of course… she wouldn't be treated like some kind of slave or servant… I just want her to remain with me…
Naruto: Genjutsu…! Genjutsu…!! GENJUTSU…!!
Daiki: *sweat-drops* …What do you think you're doing?
Naruto: I'm trying to cast a genjutsu… *squints eyes intensely*
Daiki: … And now you've told me about it… Quite dumb on your part, don't you think?
Naruto: No…!
Daiki: Oh… And why would you say that?
Naruto: Haven't you noticed it yet…? Come on, say it with me…!
Naruto+Daiki: Distraction!!
Daiki quickly turned around expecting to be obliterated by one of Naruto's destructive assaults. He was pleasantly surprised that there was no one in sight…
He turned back to see Naruto's back. This was odd because he still had his tail in his hand.
Daiki: Wha-…?
Before he could finish, the tail he held transformed and a Naruto bashed him atop the head. As if in slow motion he began falling to the ground. He watched as it got closer and closer, but he heard the two Narutos on either side exclaim…
Narutos: "DRAGON KING'S REIGN - DRAGON'S DANCE"!!
The one to Daiki's front kicked him into the air with a back flip. The second at his back flipped him in mid-air. As he tumbled, he was batted back and forth before he was hit with a flurry of uppercuts. As he fell to the ground, the Narutos crossed and landed one final kick each… one high, one low.
Daiki crashed to the ground barely conscious. He looked up and the Narutos stood over him.
Daiki: I…… I lost…
Naruto: Yeah… you lost the fight…
Naruto: But it doesn't mean that you lost what you wanted…
Daiki: Wha-… What… are you talking about?
Naruto: You were fighting because you wanted Hinata to marry you one day…
Naruto: Well… that could still happen. I'm sure she doesn't have anyone in mind that she loves, so…
Naruto: There's still a chance for you… as long as it's her choice and you give her what she deserves…
He looked up as the Narutos smiled down at him…
Akira: He… He won… I don't believe it… How…?
Yuu: I told you…! My brother's awesome! No matter who it is, he'll fight and win…!
Kiba: That's Naruto for ya…
Sakura: That knucklehead just had to pick a fight… It's good he won though…
Hinata: I'm just glad no one was seriously hurt… Naruto… you're really amazing…
Daiki: This guy… He isn't as bad as I originally thought… *passing out*
The cracks in the large pillar began to spread and grow. It then gave out and began to fall… right where the Narutos and Daiki stood.
The crowd saw this and someone shouted for the boys to lookout. The Narutos turned to see the pillar falling over and…
Haruto: Don't worry youngsters, we've got it…
Using their chakra shields, he and others in black and white robes swooped in and stop the pillar's momentum. It was a lucky break…
Haruto: Oh! My back…! My back…!
Haruto began clutching his back as he lazily drifted to the ground…
Kurenai: Um… What's his problem?
Natsuki: He's… He's been having some back problems for a while now…
It was a good thing that the others could hold their own. They eased the pillar down, ensuring that Naruto was now safe. His clone dispersed and fell asleep on the spot.
A week later…
After a few days of spending time with Hinata's relatives, others they had met in the village, and paying their respects, it was time for the group to depart.
Natsuki: It was so nice seeing you again, my precious granddaughters. I wish you could stay longer…
Hanabi: Us too…
Natsuki: Well, I guess I shouldn't make such a big deal about it… We'll see each other again next year. Then you can tell me all about what you've done in the time you were away…
Hinata+Hanabi: Right!
Hinata: Grandmother…! I'll keep on training…! I'll grow stronger and I won't let you down!
Natsuki: *smiles warmly* … I'm sure you won't… I'm sure you'll do your best. I'd love you even if you didn't but promise me something… Work on "you know what" while you can…
Hinata: Hm… What do you mean?
Natsuki: You know… *leans in with her pinky out* … What we talked about… *winks* …
Hinata: blushing furiously… Gra-… Grandmother…!
She just laughed at Hinata's reaction…
Hanabi: Huh? What is grandmother talking about? What secret are you two keeping from me?
Hitomi: See ya, hatchling…
Naruto: Would ya knock it off with the hatchling stuff…!?
Hitomi: Well, when you become stronger I might just do that…! Remember what I told you… use your power and your skills and one day you'll definitely become a great warrior…
Naruto: Right!
Hitomi: And Yuuki, tell your grandfather that if I see him… I'll wring his neck for teaching a young girl to be as perverted as he is!! *clenches teeth & balls up fist* (2)
Naruto: Wha-… What's her deal? *bead of sweat*
Yuu: I don't know but… I'M NO PERVERT!!
The group was packed and ready to head out. All that was left was the final goodbyes…
Kurenai: Thank you for putting up with us all this time…
Kakashi: We appreciate it.
Haruto: It was no problem. It was good to have you. Things haven't been this exciting in a long time.
Natsuki: We hope you visit again. Although… *looks at Naruto* … you won the right to announce your proposal to Hinata… Are you sure you don't want to do it now, Naruto?
Naruto: Wha-… WHAT!!? Why would I do something like that?! We're only kids…! What would I do with a wife anyway…!?
Natsuki: Well…
Hiashi: *clears throat* … Well, we'd better get going now… It's best if we leave now if we want to hurry home. Thank you for your hospitality, mother…
As they were walking away, they could hear Hinata's grandparents yelling goodbye. In the distance, Haruto could be seen waving his cane… until his back gave out again…
Natsuki: Goodbye everyone…! Feel free to come back again…!
Hitomi: Remember to train hard, "Hatchling"!!
Naruto: Later Old Lady… Grandma Natsuki…! Take it easy, gramps!
A pulsing vein appeared on Hiashi temple…
Hiashi: Why are you referring to them as if they're your grandparents?
Naruto: Mmm… For some reason Grandma Natsuki wanted me to do that… I don't understand why, but it's no big deal to me…
Hiashi's pulsing vein grew larger…
Yuu: Hey, if you're gonna call her grandma, then does that mean that I can too?
*Bigger vein*
Naruto: I suppose…
Yuu: Then I'll do it next time we come…
Hiashi's pulsing vein was ready to explode…
Hiashi: I FORBID IT!!
End of chapter...
Naruto and Daiki duke it out in an intense battle...
The party say their goodbyes and head home...
Next chapter: Sisters...
Side note...
(1) Angel Falls is the world's highest waterfall. It's located in the Canaima National Park in Bolivar State, Venezuela.
(2) While she had Yuuki, she asked about everything about Naruto and the man that raised her. She heard about the things Jiraiya had done and the things she had done since she'd met Naruto…