(Short chapter today, but deep. Written while we waited for our lunch to arrive. It was a scene we were going to include with the date chapter, but thought better of it. We still wanted to include it though, so we revamped it for a little side scene.)

Butterflies or Beetles: Chapter 5

Choji fidgeted in front of the esteemed Hyuga complex. He may have visited many times in the past, but that was all mission related. He had no idea what kind of reception might await him as he paced back and forth in front of the large archway.

Did the Hyuga clan even allow gentleman callers to come knocking? He wasn't sure, and he didn't want to offend anyone.

"You don't have to stand on ceremony."

The voice sent a chill up his spine before he calmed himself. "Oh, right. Sorry Hinata."

"You should come inside and sit down." Hinata told him gently, ushering the man beyond the tall archway and into the yard proper. "Tea is being served as we speak."

Choji accepted the offer, and they strolled across the courtyard. Many of the branch family members bowed deeply as they passed, causing Hinata to sigh, since she hadn't been able to break most of them of that habit. She knew it was only a sign of respect, but it still bothered her. It was also slightly embarrassing, since many of the branch family were far older than her. Those that were younger, were small children. They were just learning what it meant to be part of the strict and sprawling clan. She could hardly fault their confusion, or their young nature to rebel.

Honestly, she hoped they would. She would be leaving behind her status soon enough anyway. "I really wish they would do that in front of visitors." She said quietly so that only Choji could hear. "It's very strange to be shown such reverence all of the time."

Choji wondered about that, he really wasn't sure. "I'll bet it's difficult for you."

"Not so much difficult as off-putting." Hinata admitted as she led him into the small sitting room that was provided strictly for her to use. "I have no desire to take the clan into my hands. Strictly speaking, my status is the same as theirs. It's been that way since I was a child. My alliances fall to the village."

"I think it's because you're an easy person to follow." He felt that way. Maybe it was her soft-spoken nature, or her desire for honesty and commitment over all else. Maybe it was her loyalty. Whatever it was, Hinata had gained a large following because of it. "You always seem to step out into the limelight when it matters most, and people notice that."

Hinata smiled softly as she poured two cups of warm tea. Placing one on top of a bamboo coaster, she slid it gently across the table. "I never did that to seek attention, I merely had no other choice."

"That's the reason."

"Hm?"

"You know, I think you're very favorable. You're modest, but the truth is, you do stand out sometimes. I know it's because you have to, but, that's quality in and if itself." Choji began uneasily, his earnest expression displaying what his words couldn't. "I don't think I'd be able to put myself in the kinds of positions that you've faced." Even if he could, would he have succeeded? "I've watched all of my peers from afar, trying to see what strengths and weaknesses they have. You are one of the bravest I've seen."

"It's not bravery." Hinata laughed, finding that compliment to be too far reaching. It would never suit her. "It may be many things, but that isn't on the list. I promise you that."

"Then, do you mind if I ask…" Choji left the question lingering in the air.

"I have nothing to hide." Hinata told him honestly. "Besides, it isn't a matter of if I mind or not." No, it wasn't so black and white. In fact what drew her out of her shell was something different. Darker, more sinister. Fear. Her smile fell. "If anything drives me to those points, it's desperation. Truthfully, the thought of what might happen if I don't act, that scares me. It scares me so much that I willingly put myself in harm's way. I'd rather die than see my worst fears play out."

"I didn't know." Choji admitted then, feeling a small ball of emotion in his throat. He never assumed, but then, why would he? "Every time, you've always looked so determined. Almost like no matter what, you couldn't be beaten. I guess I always thought that Ino and Sakura might have rubbed off on you, at least a little."

"I may be at peace with the choices once I've made them, but, that's just the way it is." She sipped on her tea, eyes closed. A small twinge of relief worked its way into her mind.