TimeShifter: I always have a trick up my sleeve when it really counts! Anyway, I do have a bit of a theme running (not much, though). I thought this chapter would be at least somewhat obvious, actually.

Fritter: Yes... Only time will tell...

Chapter 14:
A Rivalry of Princesses

The day Hinata left, there was a conversation held in a solemn place next to an important tombstone. Kanaeru stood next to Kurenai, observing. The tombstone read, Sarutobi Asuma. For the sumitsuki, it was a familiar name. Well, she knew it through intelligence. However, the expression she observed on Kurenai's face told her how much she loved and missed the man.

Kurenai sighed and looked around. It had taken a few moments, but she weaved several subtle yet powerful genjutsu over the area. For all intents and purposes, she could have a private conversation even if surrounded in a crowd. "Well, satisfied with my preparations?" She was confused by the other woman's response.

Kanaeru took a moment to process what she heard and saw. Sticking her tongue out, she lightly hit her head to indicate she made a mistake. "Oopsie, could you remove the genjutsu from me, please?" It was difficult for her because it looked like the genjutsu mistress spoke something that her lips did not read.

"Um, okay…" Confused but undaunted, Kurenai pressed her fore- and middle- fingers against the other's forehead before releasing chakra into her body. "Are you not good with genjutsu?"

Kanaeru covered her own lips with her finger as if to indicate silence. "It's a se-cret!" Even in a graveyard, she was in a slightly playful mood. The seriousness of the subject matter, however, kept her from getting too carried away. "Anyway, I was curious how many times Hinata has used Yakedo."

Pinching the bridge of her nose, Kurenai could barely restrain a sigh. "It's happened twice before." She paused to evaluate the thoughtful expression on the other kunoichi's face. "I have to wonder. Why so interested?"

Kanaeru tilted her head to one side. "Why else?" Inwardly, she laughed at the vein that was about to explode on her counterpart's forehead. "I have a vested interest in her wellbeing." She paused long enough for the genjutsu artist to calm down. "I'd rather not say anything further."

Kurenai crossed her arms over her chest and took a more lecturing tone. "Anyway, Hinata was a student I took on as a jonin sensei. What assurance do I have that not only is it in her best interest that I tell you but also you won't use any information to harm her?" In her mind, she was more interested in the latter.

"I really don't have to be a psychic to get the gist of what you're thinking." Kanaeru smiled as the leaf jonin tensed. "I am no enemy of Konoha. If anything, this village owes me a debt I doubt it could repay, and Jiraiya trusted Whirlpools without reservation. Now Yuuhi Kurenai, what assurance do I have that our heir will come to no further harm by the hands of this village?"

"Whirlpools…? Uzumaki, so it is true?" Never one to act on assumptions, Kurenai decided to push a little further. "I've had my suspicions, but I never dared act on them. I thought, as did others, the child couldn't survive the ordeal from that night. That resemblance isn't just a coincidence many have convinced themselves of and pushed aside. Uzumaki Naruto really does deserve that name, and he looks exactly like his father."

Kanaeru couldn't fight the smirk that appeared on her face. "I'm glad to see this village isn't so filled with ignorance as it once was. However, we aren't here to talk about what may or may not relate to my clan. I want to know about Hinata and Yakedo because it's quite obvious who the girl has the hots for."

Kurenai sighed. "I have no intention of telling an arrogant brat anything that might jeopardize my former student or this village. I…" She was cut off when the foreign kunoichi leaned in to whisper in her ear. Her eyes went wide at what she heard.

"What if I told you Yakedo might make poor Hinata-chan act like she has schizophrenia?" Kanaeru took several steps back to observe her counterpart's reaction. She could feel how the chakra moved in her body, obvious turmoil. "There, that was probably the right push in the right direction."

"I…" Internally, Kurenai had to fight warring emotions. She couldn't just 'sell' Hinata's secrets like that. She knew little of Whirlpools, but they were neutral to the best of her knowledge. "…can't just tell you that."

Kanaeru nodded. "Of course, I understand…" She paused and put a finger to her chin as if considering something. "…but, you know, I do have some information to share with you." She felt for the genjutsu mistress' chakra fluctuation before continuing. "Yakedo is a Hyuuga secret. It turns the user's chakra nature into a powerful weapon, but it's a double-edged sword."

Kurenai nodded in agreement. She'd seen that well enough. She still wasn't ready to divulge what she knew. "Yeah, it took everything Kiba, Shino, and I had just to restrain her. Afterwards, she was completely exhausted." She looked up in surprise when the red head laughed.

"You're surprisingly easy to read." Kanaeru smirked as, once again, the leaf jonin tensed. "I'm not really interested in the weaknesses. It eats chakra, hence it's name. I imagine the biggest hurdle, however, is what I felt in Hinata's chakra, an internal struggle. She didn't even recognize Gayt or me, and we've been training with her since we arrived."

As the brunette was about to respond, the sumitsuki continued. "She recognized her Aburame friend, but I was more surprised when she simply released Yakedo. Considering the surprise on his face, I think the 'wills' inside her agreed on a single course of action, seek Naruto."

Kurenai sighed, finally giving in. "I can't disagree there. The first two times I ever saw Hinata activate Yakedo were when Naruto was insulted and her team in serious danger." She eyed the red head. "She's astute and reads the situation well, but, like Naruto, she has zero ability when it comes to genjutsu."

Kanaeru considered the information for a second. "I imagine the girl's a lot stronger than anybody suspects. Yakedo alone gives her an interesting advantage, but I need to learn more." She turned to the brunette. "Tell me about those two times, please."

Kurenai rolled her eyes. "The first wasn't very impressive. It occurred in her second try at the chunin exams. Some rain nin was running his mouth. Apparently, Naruto's team had embarrassed his team on multiple occasions. It was the first time we saw Hinata's anger. We were caught off guard, and, by the time the proctor called an end to the match in her victory, every jonin had to hold her back."

She sighed. "Even then it wasn't enough. As we weren't trying to hurt her, she managed to break through at first. She actively avoided me. Come to think of it, she probably only recognized me of all the jonin present. When the idiot's friends tried to defend him, she almost tore through them…if it wasn't for Kiba and Shino. We managed to hold her back until her chakra ran out, and she passed out."

She looked at the sky as a cloud passed by. "It was the second time Yakedo came out that things got…interesting. For security purposes, I can't tell you anything about the mission. However, we did run across somebody who knew Naruto. Kiba and Shino were pinned down, and Akamaru was badly injured. I didn't see what happened exactly, but, from what I heard, their opponent had diarrhea of the mouth."

"I felt rage and more intense killer intent than I thought she was capable of. If Kiba wasn't exaggerating, I wouldn't blame her if she had the same killer intent as the Kyuubi no Kitsune on the night it attacked Konoha. She was out for blood, and, unfortunately, we needed her opponent alive for questioning."

"Wait…" Kanaeru finally spoke up as she soaked the information in. "You're saying that extreme emotions caused her Yakedo to awaken?" A confirming nod was all she needed. "Interesting, I can see another reason for its name and another hurdle. I imagine it amplifies those feelings, so it could cause a psychological burnout."

Kurenai nodded. She felt the concern in her counterpart, so she felt she could trust her all the more. After all, she hadn't condemned the village for mistreating who was most likely her nephew…if she remembered her relation to Kushina correctly. "I can't disagree with that assessment. After both incidents mentioned, she was rather subdued for a while. Anyway as I was saying, the second incident was against someone we needed alive for questioning. It was…unnerving to watch water so well commanded by someone with so little nature training. She almost drowned him before we got her under control."

For a moment, there was silence. When she finally spoke up again, her counterpart was brought out of her thoughts. "If you want details on the fights themselves, you'll have to ask Hokage-sama. You only asked for information on Yakedo, and I've only said as much as I have because you've provided me some valuable insight."

Kanaeru chuckled. "I really like this girl who pretended to be a shy li'l' thing." She waved the look she received for her words off. "Anyway, it's more than enough information for me. If it's emotional, it should be easy enough for me to help in her training."

She paused as she noticed her kousotsu approaching. "I have one more tidbit of information for you besides what I shared, and the Hyuuga don't know this. My servant, Gayt, was the one who noticed it, in fact." She paused for dramatic effect. "She can see the nature of her surroundings."

She smirked at the wide-eyed expression from the genjutsu mistress. "Gayt calls it mana, but the few shinobi trained in using it know it as something else. Jiraiya mentioned it once, but I can't be bothered to remember it, and cute little Naru-chan's supposed to be off training in it."

"Now, there's a simple reason this is important. Yakedo is rare in the Hyuuga, but it was probably once considered an unwanted abnormality. When juuken was created after the rise of the shinobi, I'm sure the Byakugan, juuken taijutsu style, and abnormal sight contributed to the development of Yakedo. It's only theory on my part, but it makes sense."

Kurenai could only nod. "Yes, I see your point." She heard rustling and finally noticed the armor-clad man's approach. She restrained herself from gaping at Gayt's approach; she completely missed him. She noted the fleck of light around him. "If what you say is true, the ability makes sense. Only a clan with such understanding of tenketsu could develop such a technique."

With a nod, Kanaeru turned and walked to Gayt. She turned as she stood by his side. "As I said before, Hinata-chan's wellbeing is very important to me. I won't break my promise, and Gayt here made double sure no unwanted eyes or ears were near."

Kurenai narrowed her eyes as another thought crossed her mind. "How did he get past my genjutsu?" As she recalled, the red-headed kunoichi even managed to be entrapped in an illusion that wasn't even targeted at her.

Kanaeru blinked and looked from Gayt to the leaf jonin and back again. After a moment of thought, she returned her attention to the brunette with a shrug. "I guess the best I can say is…chakra doesn't really affect him." She turned on her heels and beckoned Gayt to follow. She waved over her shoulder. "See you later!" She used Shunshin to avoid further discussion.

"Wai-…" Kurenai was too late as they disappeared from sight. Though she recognized the technique the other kunoichi used, the armored man seemed to just…flicker from sight. "She called him…servant?" She felt a light kick and looked to her bulging stomach. "Oh, do you think something's going on as well?"

As the wind blew, she turned to the tombstone she stood in front of. "What do you think, Asuma? You always did say that the king in shogi represented the next generation. From what I could tell, the arrogant brat had a strong will and wild spirit. Is it really okay for me to simply trust that?" She sighed. "Maybe I shouldn't worry so much…"

It was a few hours later before Kanaeru was happily whistling on her way to Konoha's main entrance. In the distance, she could already see Sasame and Isaribi waiting. Oddly, she noticed another medic nin waiting at the gate. "Nara Yoshi, if I remember correctly…" He was holding a package from what she could tell. "Oh well, at least I can count on their punctuality." She smirked. "Unlike a certain other shinobi I know."

From behind a pole, a silver-haired man wearing a face mask over his mouth and hitai-ate over one eye slid around to face her. His expression was solemn. "I know he's your relative, but I can't thank you enough for being there for him. I only wish I'd been recalled from my mission, so I could help."

She shook her head. "That's nonsense, Kakashi!" She giggled at his smile. "You have the reputation of your village to worry about. Naruto-kun can take care of himself, and I can handle Kyuubi if he can't. Besides, it was fun. I got to rescue him and that cute Hyuuga-chan too."

He shook his head. "Only Kanaeru…" He looked over his shoulder. "Are you leaving already? I had some things I wanted to discuss." He did find it unusual that a spy and two medics were awaiting her.

She waved her hand as she nearly laughed hysterically. "No, no, nothing like that!" She wiped the forming tears from her eyes. "I'm just borrowing a couple of shinobi for a tour of Fire. I'll be back to discuss whatever you want."

As he looked at her, he wondered why he was feeling so guilty. "You know; Rin…" He never got to finish his thought as she gently placed a finger against the cloth covering his lips.

"You don't need to apologize, Kakashi." She shook her head. "No, I should be apologizing. Kyuubi took someone so precious from you." She smiled and took a step back. "Besides, that knucklehead Obito-kun would tell you to cheer up and stop being so melancholy!"

He closed his eyes and chuckled. "Yeah, I suppose he would." He looked to the Hokage tower. "Well, Yamato wanted to talk to me, and I shouldn't keep him waiting. I'll see you when you get back." They waved and gave each other farewells before separating.

It wasn't much longer before she arrived at the main entrance to observe the three waiting for her. She was expecting Sasame and Isaribi; she was paying for them. The third, one Nara Yoshi, she was not expecting. He approached and greeted first. "Sorry 'bout this, but Hokage-sama asked me to deliver this."

He held out a scroll which she quickly accepted. She was about to unfurl it when he interrupted. "Sorry, but you can't open that here. Hokage-sama asked me to tell you not to open it until you set up camp tonight."

Kanaeru sighed. As she packed the scroll away, she eyed the young medic. He was around the same age as Naruto, likely a bit older. He had the composure she had come to expect from members of his clan, but he chose a much harder life than she would have expected. "Was there anything else, Yoshi-gaki?"

He rolled his eyes and scoffed. "Not particularly. I have business at the hospital, so, if you'll excuse me…" He lazily waved over his shoulder as he walked away. "I am curious about her clan name, but it seemed taboo around Hokage-sama when I brought it up. Very suspicious for a visiting shinobi or dignitary." He had his suspicions, but he decided to keep them to himself.

"Oh…" She cooed to herself. "…barely any chakra fluctuation. He's pretty decent." She half-expected a more substantial reaction, but she was pleasantly surprised. She nodded before turning to her hires. "I like your punctuality. It's getting late in the day, so we'll just set up camp somewhere appropriate. I'll set marching orders then. Let's go!"

Recognizing their orders, neither girl disobeyed. They weren't reluctant to leave, and they didn't feel uncomfortable around the foreign shinobi. They weren't native to Konoha or Fire either. They had their orders, and the money from the mission would strengthen the village.

Tsunade looked to the door when she heard a gentle rapping. She looked around at the other occupants, Kankuro and his genin team. She was certain she told Shizune about this important meeting. Albeit, it was almost over, but it was out of character for her faithful assistant. "This better be good, Shizune!"

The door opened a crack, and the dark-haired assistant meekly poked her head in. "Um Tsunade-sama, Hiashi-sama is here to see you… He says it's urgent and can't wait." She almost yelped when he reached over her and forced the door further open. "You can't do that! Tsunade-sama…"

Brow twitching, the buxom blond interrupted before she could finish. "It's all right, Shizune. We were just finishing up anyway." Irate, she looked the Hyuuga head in the eyes. "This better be good, Hiashi."

He politely bowed. "It is, Tsunade-hime." He politely nodded to Kankuro. "It's good I caught you before you left. I have business in Suna and would like to ask you to escort my daughter and me." He paused to let the request sink in before continuing. "I believe it would be a good experience for your genin."

Kankuro nodded; he couldn't disagree. He knew the stalwart man standing at the threshold to the Hokage's office was perfectly capable of defending himself. At best, it was a D-rank that would be classified as C-rank or better simply because it involved a dignitary and mild risk of shinobi attack. "Yeah, I can go along with that."

While it was obvious the genin were excited, a tick made itself known along Tsunade's brow. "Is that all, Hiashi? I thought you'd have something very important for barging in like that." She forcibly calmed down when she noticed three very scared faces slowly backing behind their jonin sensei.

"Of course, I need to inform you that I am heading to Suna to negotiate or renegotiate some trade deals. As such, I also need to officially inform you of whom I am leaving in temporary charge of the Hyuuga clan. Upon her return, Hinata will assume that role. As such, I need her freed from shinobi detail."

Tsunade nodded. "You expect to be absent longer than her round trip from Demons?" His confirming nod was all she needed. "Very well, I'll clear Hinata from shinobi detail until your return." She turned her attention to Kankuro. "I'm sorry I've got to keep your nee-san a bit longer, but we need all the help we can get."

Curious, Hiashi watched as the young jonin answered. "Nah, don't worry about it. Temari's a bit stubborn, and she wants to help. Besides if I stayed here based on every little problem…" He indicated his female charge to indicate his thoughts. "…I'd never leave until a certain kunoichi satisfied her desire for 'Naruto-sama'." The genin didn't seem to notice.

With an almost lecturing tone, Kankuro continued. "We'll be leaving first thing in the morning. I'm sure Gaara's getting worried about us. I hope it's not too inconvenient for you, Hyuuga-sama."

"No, not at all. I'll collect Hanabi and meet you at the main gate." With what he had to say out of the way, Hiashi turned and left. He was sure it didn't sound very important to the genin, but he knew the meaning got across to those who mattered. Konoha wasn't going to lose trade deals with Suna, but it also wasn't going to be unfavorable to its ally. It was important to remain strong.

Kakashi shook his head when he walked up on Ichiraku. It seemed as good a meeting place as any, but he had no idea why Yamato had chosen it in the first place. He pulled back the curtain and walked in. When his junior beckoned him to take a seat, he shrugged and complied.

The younger jonin spoke up as the stool next to him was occupied. "I was in the village, but Hokage-sama didn't even summon me when Naruto went on that mission. I've also heard she's a relative." He paused to look at his senior.

Kakashi sighed. He figured news got around fast in the ANBU grapevine. "Yeah, she's Uzumaki Kanaeru." He paused to look at the ceiling. "The last time she was in our village, she actually taught sensei some Fuuin." He had a chuckle at that. Even an inexperienced sumitsuki had a mastery of seals other shinobi took years to learn.

Yamato looked to his senior with a bit of wonderment. "The Fourth was a master of seals. When he was only a candidate for the position, some said he had surpassed Jiraiya-sama, his own sensei. Are you saying she was more skilled than him back then?"

Kakashi shook his head. "No, she taught him Fuuin she thought would help keep her 'nee' safe." He smiled widely, eye closed in mirth. "However, I'd say she's by far superior now."

Yamato carefully nodded. He heard about the reports that were handed in. According to what Neji saw while they were fighting, she actually completed Fuuin in the middle of combat to aid her. That kind of skill was nearly incomprehensible to him. "Are my services no longer required in controlling the Kyuubi?"

With a sigh, Kakashi considered it. "I think my team will be returning to my charge. You were a great team taichou, but you were mainly there to keep an eye on Sai." He leaned in closer to his junior to talk in hushed tones. "By the way, do you still have your suspicions?"

Yamato nodded and also kept his voice low. "Danzo doesn't just let his 'tools' go. I think Sai is genuinely trying to improve, but he's still a ROOT. I can't watch him all the time, so I can't really confirm anything."

Kakashi looked up as Ayame set a steaming bowl in front of each of them. He was about to protest that he didn't order anything when she spoke up. "Yamato-san already paid for it. Besides, tou-san and I really appreciate what you're doing for our number one customer!" Her smile beamed brightly as she turned to return to the backroom.

Yamato chuckled. "Well, I mainly wanted to find out what was going on." His smile almost faded when he noticed the bowl in front of his senior empty. "I don't mind returning to my duties with ANBU, but I'll worry about Naruto."

Kakashi stood and turned around. "Yeah, he's a knuckleheaded troublemaker, but he's a good kid. He's really surpassed my expectations." With a bright smile and closed eye, he turned to his junior. "His generation's already surpassed ours. I feel safe leaving Konoha in their capable hands."

With what he had to say out and a nod from the younger jonin, Kakashi of the Copy Eye left. He had faith in Naruto's abilities. He was certain he could master something even Jiraiya couldn't. He also had faith he would someday become Hokage, find love, and raise a family.

Things were slowly moving to where they belonged.

It was nearly dusk before Kanaeru decided to stop and set up camp for the night. After tents were up, she had Sasame and Isaribi gather firewood and food, respectively. Once they were outside the perimeter, she unfurled the scroll she was given early. She was surprised Yoshi had delivered it, but she figured Tsunade was busy.

The first thing she noticed was the sealed medical supplies. It surprised her because she figured Sasame would pack plenty of them. Next, she found some sealed disguises and makeup. She shook her head and laughed at the idea. Wasn't Isaribi chosen to take up Jiraiya's network?

She was surprised to find the last few items. Her heart rate increased, she bit her thumb and released the first seal with her blood. She skimmed through the papers that appeared and nearly hugged them to her chest. "Thank you Tsunade!" They were detailed drawings and descriptions of the Fuuin used by Minato on Naruto.

She heard rustling and quickly resealed the notes. She could study them later. She turned to notice both girls returning at the same time. With a smirk, she set to making a small campfire to cook the meat. She could worry about hiding the fire later. It wasn't like they were on a secret mission or they had to worry about attackers.

She looked over to where she could barely sense Gayt. He was quiet and keeping his distance. She doubted either Sasame or Isaribi had noticed him. He didn't have chakra, and she could only sense him because of the Fuuin that held his armor together. No, it was unlikely they'd be attacked.

The next morning, Hiashi and Hanabi arrived at the main gate to find Kankuro and his team ready to depart. After they concluded introductions, they were off to Suna. Even with the four genin, the trip would be short. Hiashi expressed an interest in arriving as quickly as possible. He explained it was only polite considering the nature of the negotiations.

Along the way, Kankuro's genin tried to make conversation with Hanabi. Tsume, in particular, thought she would hit it off well with a girl just a bit younger than her. Surprisingly, the young Hyuuga stayed nearer to her father. It wasn't that she didn't like them or want to get to know them. They were just…odd.

Tsume incessantly asked about Naruto and Hinata. Hanabi tried to converse with her, but she couldn't get past her interest in those two. She was standoffish to Mori. He was a puppet user, and he seemed quiet. Hishu, on the other hand, was definitely loud. He actually tried hitting on her, but she could tell he was trying to make somebody jealous.

Hanabi gave up on trying to understand them after the first day. She figured she had plenty of time to get to know them once in Suna. It was probably a good idea to separate them. Mori and Hishu obviously held affection for Tsume, and she ignored them in favor of a boy she barely knew. Things were…complicated. Yeah, procrastination was best in cases such as she was presented with Kankuro's genin.

A few days later as Hinata was approaching the capital of Demons, an ANBU wearing an eagle mask to identify herself appeared before Tsunade in her office. Without looking up from the paperwork she was busying herself with, she recognized her defender's presence. "What is it, Eagle?"

"I'm sorry to disturb you, Hokage-sama." She was still prostrating herself. "You asked me to inform you when the tracking seals had fully adhered to the captives bodies. As you asked, I have also ensured the special seal applied to Rikka is working properly." She didn't need to say anything more, and she knew it.

Tsunade looked up from her paperwork to appraise Eagle. "Very well, I'll have Bull assume escort duty. You deserve a break. Why don't you take off your mask and take some time off?"

Eagle nodded. "Of course Hokage-same, thank you for your generosity." Without further word, she melted into the shadows. She was only too happy to serve, but she knew her body was at its limit working nearly nonstop the past few days with the Fuuin. Basuto, Rikka, and Saiga were trying at best.

Tsunade rose from her chair and was nearly instantly surrounded by her ANBU escort. One wore a bull mask while the other three were nearly indistinguishable from the rest of their secret ops. "Bull, follow me. I want the rest of you to gather our 'guests' and meet me at the hospital."

They bowed and flickered out of sight. Tsunade knew Bull was nearby, but he kept his presence hidden as trained. As the rest of the higher ranked ANBU, he already knew her plan and understood her reasoning.

She made a beeline for the hospital. Her expression was stern, an obvious sign of her seriousness. Whatever she was up to, she meant business. She was not surprised to see ANBU with the captives waiting for her. They were quick and punctual. She nodded to them in appreciation, and they followed as she walked by without even a sign.

They finally arrived at Yumiko's room. It was dark, and Fuuin was etched across the floor and walls. She was on life support, and her vitals appeared stable. To Basuto and Saiga's untrained eyes, their mother appeared to be recovering. Rikka saw something else. Even with the chakra suppression, she could still read active thoughts well enough. She just couldn't dig into a mind for more information.

As expected, the three children rushed to their mother's side. Tsunade ordered her ANBU not to draw weapons or approach. Bull was the only one who didn't move. As ordered, they were to observe until deemed necessary.

Rikka was standing at the head of the bed. She stared at her mother's face as she listened to the thoughts around the room. Her brothers were very predictable. They were on either side of the bed, each holding one of Yumiko's hands. "Idiots, they can't tell. Okaa-sama is dying." She kept her thoughts to herself.

With her head lowered, she walked back to Tsunade and the ANBU. "Okaa-sama is dying, and there's nothing they can do. Even her essence is almost gone. Even if they let us, we don't know how to do the kinjutsu to transfer her. She taught Basuto-oniisama and Saiga-kun how, but I doubt they could at this point." She didn't transfer her thoughts. She wasn't speaking to anybody.

As she neared Tsunade, her brothers thought it was a cue to do…something. Even she wasn't sure as she turned around aghast. She clenched her fists and tightly closed her eyes. Her brothers were trying to get them all killed! She felt nothing but a passing wind. She felt nothing as the seconds passed. She felt like she had stood in one spot for hours.

Rikka then cracked one eye open. In the surprise and horror she felt, she wasn't paying attention to the minds in the room. In fact, the chaos proved too much for her to process all the thoughts. It was something she wasn't familiar with, and she was surprised to see ANBU holding her brothers' unconscious forms.

In her fright, she turned to Tsunade. She stumbled backwards and fell to her butt when she noticed the ANBU right behind her. She cowered and covered her face. She kept hearing the word 'test' running through thoughts. "Was this all a test?! Did we fail?! No, I'm not done observing!" She didn't realize she transmitted her thoughts in her fright.

Tsunade sighed. "You're brothers are incorrigible. They tried to attack, even going so far as to try molding chakra. The pain made them pass out." She looked to the unconscious boys. "You were all told about the chakra suppression seal, yet they ignored the consequences. They probably aren't ready to be introduced to society. Well, Rikka…do you still want to observe?"

The pale-skinned youth observed the buxom blond for a moment. "I'm being given a chance?" She heard confirming thoughts along with the nod…then she narrowed her eyes. "You're sending me to your shinobi academy?!" She felt insulted. Sure, physically she was the right age, but… "Those brats are beneath me!"

She was taken aback by the sudden change of demeanor from Tsunade, and the slug sannin nearly bellowed her reply as she picked up the light girl and pushed her against the wall. "If you want to observe, you're going to start with our youth. Naruto's on a mission right now, so you can't observe him. In fact, you might like them. They're more accustomed to Naruto. They learned of him through Konohamaru and cheered for him at his first chunin exam."

Rikka slowly nodded. She got a picture of Konohamaru when the buxom blond mentioned him. As she was gently lowered to the ground, she observed her brothers. They were stubborn. Basuto was stuck in his ways, and Saiga was the spoiled baby. She knew she was fawned over, but she was rarely allowed contact. It was a change of pace, and she found it somewhat exciting.

"I-I'll go to your shinobi academy then. However, isn't the chakra suppression you subjected me to unfavorable for the curriculum?" She didn't like having so little access to her techniques. She allowed it to be applied because she figured they'd make her live her life as a civilian while observing. They were giving her a different opportunity.

Oddly, it was Bull who spoke up. "Quiet you insolent brat. Hokage-sama is giving you a huge opportunity. If you pass our expectations, the chakra suppression can be removed." He still considered the girl a danger, but she hadn't so much as tried to attack. She didn't even mold her chakra to read minds or link minds. It was a start, but he couldn't say she was close to trustworthy.

Rikka bowed her head in defeat. "Fine, I'll go." Though dejected at the seeming torture, she looked Konoha's leader right in the eyes. "However if I have to call somebody sensei, make sure it's somebody who likes Naruto."

Tsunade smirked. "I think I'll do one better. Your sensei will be somebody who was the first person, still living, to acknowledge him." She confidently wrapped an arm around the confused girl's shoulders. She didn't say it, but she was enjoying the lowered ability to read thoughts. "Now then, I have some things to discuss about your kaa-san."

Rikka looked over her shoulder to see the ANBU flicker out of sight with her brothers. With only Bull and one of his subordinates remaining, she returned her attention to her mother. She rolled her eyes. "What is there to discuss? Okaa-sama's dying, and you know it. I don't know everything okaa-sama knows, and the only way you'll learn that is to transfer okaa-sama into a new vessel."

She continued before she could be interrupted. "However, you aren't about to do that. Okaa-sama's vessel is dying, but, more importantly, her essence is fading. There's nothing you can do for okaa-sama, and you've already figured that out." She paused. "Right?"

Tsunade sighed. "Maybe the brat is still just as good at reading minds." She shook her head. "Whatever the case may be, you're the nearest relative we trust enough to deal with. She's a traitor, but we'll go along with your wishes for a funeral. Just don't expect a good spot for a burial or a pyre."

Rikka turned a cold gaze to her mother. "Okaa-sama is really dying…" She took a shuddering breath. "If Basuto-oniisama and Saiga-kun see the funeral, they…might be easier to control. I don't know, though." She felt a tear run down her cheek. "You can hate and curse her all you like, but she was still our okaa-sama. Even if she lied and was a bad person…"

Tsunade gently squeezed the perpetually young girl's shoulder. "Don't worry. We don't expect you to hate her. I think I'd be rather disappointed if you did, actually." She looked at the girl, almost ready to sob. "It's okay to cry. We all need to, sometimes." She was surprised by the resolute look on the face of the pale-skinned girl.

Rikka refused to cry. Even if tears welled up and rolled down her cheek, she was not going to show that weakness in front of her mother. With some determination, she managed a question. "When do I start school?"

Tsunade shook her head. "It starts in a few weeks. I'll have a jonin on maternity leave show you around some." With those words, Rikka's odd relationship with Konoha officially started.

A horrible smell permeated her senses. It was familiar and jolted her to a waking state. She bolted upright and swatted the air in front of her nose. As her lavender eyes focused on the worried look from a miko and curious look from a red-headed child, she remembered where she was. She also placed the stench, smelling salts.

"Sh-Shinon-chi, i-is the nee-chi otay?" The shy red-head spoke with a soft voice. Momiji hid behind Shion's leg. She also had a bit of trouble with speech and called her Shinon instead. A few things started to click for Hinata.

Shion smiled brightly. "Yes Momo-chan, Hinata's okay." She giggled. "I think we just surprised her a bit. She wasn't expecting cute little Momo-chan to be Naruto-kun's otome."

"I-Is nee-chi taking me to see Naru-chi?" She had a sparkle to her eyes as she asked the question. She was excited to meet her father. When Shion nodded, she nearly jumped for joy. After a moment of thought, she carefully walked to Hinata. "Um, um… Ah… Tank you nee-chi!" Embarrassed, she rushed to hide behind Shion again.

Hinata was pleased when the young girl approached, but she was taken aback by the sudden retreat. She wouldn't press the issue. Momiji seemed shy and uncertain. She was like that when she was her age. She watched as Shion turned around to speak with the girl.

The daimyo priestess gently rested her hands on the young red-head's shoulders. "Why don't you be a good girl, Momo-chan, and tell Mizukura-taichou that we're ready to go."

Momiji frowned but responded positively. She held her arms out to balance herself as she rushed out the room in something between a walk and a run. She swayed a bit back and fourth, but she appeared fine nonetheless.

Once she was certain she was out of earshot, Shion turned to her escort to ask a question bluntly. "What do you think of Naruto-kun?" She had her suspicions based on the heiress' reaction. She hadn't thought logically about it at all and simply fainted.

"Well, um…" Hinata wasn't sure if she should be honest, but she already promised herself her love for Naruto would be the one thing she would be selfish of. "He…I, um, he's most precious to my heart…" She blushed. It was the first time she actually told somebody else, and she wasn't sure her confession in the dream really counted, even though it really was to Naruto.

Shion sighed and appraised the girl. "Well, I can't fault who you like, and you really do offer up some competition…as far as looks are concerned." She stretched to purposely show off her curves. "However, you're not very confident. You're clothes are baggy, and I could only tell what kind body you had when I checked your breathing."

Hinata's blush deepened. She recalled the clothes her friends tried to pick out for her. They ranged from immodest to…not as showy from Ino to Sakura to Tenten. Naruto had seen her in her…favorite of the dresses and in a combination of styles, but she was only just getting used to the compliments. She covered up so much even her supposed suitors never complimented her. Though admittedly, she never gave them the time of day.

Shion held one finger in the air and continued. "However, I can only have one child, and I absolutely refuse to have her with anybody but Naruto." She caught the wide-eyed look from her new sort-of rival. "I only met Naruto-kun a few months ago. Momo-chan's an orphan."

Hinata let out a sigh of relief. "I-I thought it was a little odd when I started thinking about it…" She sorrowfully bowed her head. "I'm sorry for thinking so poorly of you…" Actually, she was fighting between bloodlust and abject horror when she fainted.

Shion waved the thought off. "Perish the thought!" She giggled. "Actually, I like you Hinata. You're way more fun than that other Hyuuga! I'm glad they sent you. I can have some real girl-to-girl talks!" She smiled happily, something Naruto taught her. "Besides, nothing says rivals can't have a heart-to-heart. Now come on, can't keep Mizukura-taichou waiting."

Hinata nodded, stood up, and followed her charge to the designated meeting place. She was ready to move out, supplies packed and held in one hand. She was done thinking depressing thoughts. Naruto wasn't the girl's natural father, so she understood the situation a little more.

However, there was one problem. Though Shion called her a rival, they should be equal. It seemed to Hinata such was not the case. They couldn't adopt a child in both their names unless they were married. Betrothal wasn't enough, and she was certain Naruto had no fiancée.

Her thoughts kept circling as they entered the courtyard. She saw Momiji standing nervously with the guard, but she rushed to Shion's side as soon as she saw her. Hinata couldn't fight a smile that tugged at her lips at the sight.

Mizukura approached and politely bowed. "Daimyo-sama, Hyuuga-sama, preparations are complete." He indicated the carriage and surrounding garrison. They troops were ready to leave and eager to serve. They also seemed pleased that, unlike last time, they were being given the chance to take up arms for their daimyo priestess.

Shion looked to her escort. "If you don't mind, could you inspect the preparations? I'm not sure what to actually expect for such a long voyage, and I trust your opinion." She smiled while warmly holding Momiji's shoulders.

Hinata nodded in confirmation as she approached the carriage and troops. It was a fairly traditional setup for a daimyo. The troops would cover the flanks and reverse of the carriage, but the formation allowed the front to be quickly covered just in case. She imagined she would be asked to take the point.

The inspection was finished quickly. There were more than enough food and supplies. Normally, she'd find that something to argue against. However, she knew her arguments wouldn't be heard. The troops would staunchly defend the need to be over-prepared for their daimyo, and the daimyo would argue the supplies were necessary. Though there were plenty of villages on the way back to Konoha, there was no point delaying for such a trifling matter.

Hinata approached her charge and politely bowed. "Everything seems in order. Do you wish me to take the point?" Though she was fairly certain she would be asked to take the position, she still felt it polite and within bounds of respect to ask.

To her surprise, Shion shook her head. "I'd like to talk to you, so you can walk just outside the carriage door." She was certain the shinobi would at least insist on walking outside to ensure her safety. However, she was wide-eyed to the actual response.

"I'm sorry Shion, but we can talk whenever we set up camp. It is important that I get you to Konoha with minimal trouble. On my way here, I took note of any potential spots for ambush or bandit hideouts. It would be best if I take the point to ensure safe passage." She figured she was being perfectly logical and reasonable. It was fine to chitchat, but it had its time and place.

Reluctantly, Shion agreed. "Okay Hinata, I agree to your plan." She turned to the captain of the guard. "Mizukura-taichou, I want you take the rear. You are the strongest of the guard, so it's only appropriate that you backup Hinata's efforts." He only bowed and nodded before turning on his heels to give orders to the men.

"Ah we leaving to see Naru-chi now?" Momiji looked hopefully up to her mother.

Shion smiled and took the small girl's hand. "Yes Momo-chan, we're going to see Naruto-kun now. You just have to be patient a while longer. Hinata-chan will ensure we make it to Naruto-kun safe and sound." She closed her eyes in mirth as she led the red-head to the carriage.

Momiji smiled. "Yay, I'm going to see Naru-chi." She happily complied as she was led to the carriage and carefully lifted in first. She climbed into a seat as Shion boarded directly behind her.

Before the door was closed, Hinata approached. "I'm sorry I had to go against your wishes, but I need to keep you and Momiji safe. It's my job."

Shion was about to respond when Momiji spoke up. "If nee-chi wants to call Momiji Momo-chan like mama, Momiji wouldn't mind." Embarrassed, she hid behind the fabric of her kimono sleeves.

With a smile, Hinata responded. "If you insist, Momo-chan." She turned to take her position. "I shall get you to Konoha safely, even if it means disobeying you from time to time. If you want to stop somewhere along the way, tell me, and I'll check it out first." She tossed a bag into the carriage. "Those are smoke flares. The white ones tell me you want to stop and rest. The red ones are for emergencies only, such as an attack. You can use the blue ones if you want to tell me something. Please be careful using them, we don't want to attract too much attention."

Shion picked the back up and took a look inside. Sure enough, there were white, red, and blue smoke flares. She understood them well enough, and she understood why she was being given them. With the shinobi at the point, they needed a fast, reliable way to get her attention. "Very well, I hope I only ever have to use the white ones then."

The first week of the trip back to Konoha had been delightfully uneventful. They passed a few areas with obvious bandit activity, but they wisely choose to stay away from such a large formation. The first few camps were set by Shion's schedule. Hinata never complained, but she knew they could travel faster if the schedule was based on the troops' stamina.

Hinata was surprised at how well she got along with Shion, and she was pleased to see Momiji slowly warm up to her. They talked at night before heading off to bed. When they talked, it was on random matters. Sometimes the topic rested on Naruto, and Momiji was very attentive even as her lids grew heavy.

Mizukura insisted Hinata take the final watch every night. She didn't mind; she was used to early mornings. He always took the first watch despite having plenty of troops, and he alternated who took which watch each night. Hinata had to admit; he was a skillful and logistically minded captain of the guard.

Unfortunately, a peaceful trip to Konoha was not to be. Hinata was standing a few feet into Fire territory. She planned on waiting Shion and her entourage and officially welcoming them to her homeland. Unfortunately before any such joyous announcement could be made, she noticed a red plume of smoke rising from where she estimated Shion's carriage was. With wide eyes, she rushed back as fast as she could.

She arrived at a scene of chaos. Shion's carriage was easily surrounded by multiple circles of troops. However, their number was reduced by nearly a quarter. She knew whoever was attacking was strong. Mizukura was barking orders from atop the carriage, and she noticed a glow around its perimeter.

Without hesitation, she made her way to the already dug in troops. She easily reached her target and stood next to him atop the carriage. "What happened? What's the situation?"

Mizukura heaved a heavy sigh of relief. "I was wondering where you were, Hyuuga-sama." He paused to assess the situation. "We were passing the tree line when a ninjutsu struck our reverse. Our formation is in disarray, and our troops are worried. It's obvious we're dealing with a shinobi…"

They heard a clapping and turned to see a middle-aged man approaching. With her Byakugan active, she noticed a middle-aged woman not far behind. Her face went pale when she noticed their hitai-ate. They were missing nin from Kumo, and the woman looked vaguely familiar.

I really thought somebody would get Momiji... I mean; Naruto met Shion at most a few months ago... Momo-chan's three years old! Yes, the cowlicks are important... I'll be explaining more about Momiji and her fiery red hair, but there's a more appropriate time. Shion doesn't want to explain things several times, after all.

Sadly as some may have noticed, I'm having to change my update days to Mondays. Recently, it seems my schedule and school has been uncooperative to Sunday releases; I get so busy on weekends with school projects and absurd work schedules I have barely any time for necessary proofreading. Next time I have to work twelve hours in one day (twenty-five in total) on one project, I think I'm going to scream...

As always, reviews are appreciated, and flames outright ignored.

Story Word Count: 8,032
Story Page Count: 17

Terms and Jutsu:

Shunshin - Body Flicker: A rather low level technique, Shunshin uses chakra to boost one's speed.

otome: daughter