Hinata nearly had a panic attack when she saw Naruto out cold in front of her father's office. What had happened? Had Naruto offended Father somehow? A million questions raced through her young mind as she rushed to her not-quite-official-boyfriend's side. She pulled him off the floor and placed him on a bench. The blond groaned and blinked a few times. Hinata tackled Naruto as he sat up.
"Naruto-kun! Are you ok? What happened?"
Naruto hugged her back. "I, uh, had a talk with your dad."
Oh no! Hundreds of terrifying scenarios flashed in her mind. The lavender eyed heiress thought she was prepared for anything except for what had actually happened.
"Do you want to go to the October Festival with me?" Naruto was suddenly faced by a lack of oxygen. Hinata hugged even tighter while saying yes at the speed of sound.
"Don't forget you two are in a house where everyone can see through walls." Kō chuckled as he walked up. The chuckle turned into a bending over, side splitting laugh when the two turned bright red and shot to a close, but acceptable distance apart.
"Hiashi-sama and Hizashi-sama are meeting with the Council right now. I'm here to escort you before the Council."
"Kō-san, what does the Council wish to speak with us about?" They can't be opposed to Naruto-kun escorting me to the Festival can they?
"I think they want to give a 'pep talk' about your match with Billboard and the Teme." The Hyūga Chunnin had adopted his little brother's nicknames for the Uchiha and the Haruno.
Naruto leaned back against the wall. "The old farts want us to beat the crap out of them don't they?"
Kō groaned. "Naruto, I know you're excited about… pretty much everything, but please be respectful."
"Sure thing nii-san." Naruto and Hinata quickly made their way to the Council. Hizashi strode confidently over to his niece and Naruto.
"Naruto and Hinata, the Council is very eager to speak with you about the upcoming finals. Naruto, a moment."
Naruto walked a few steps away from Hinata to where Hizashi was standing.
"My brother let me know about your request. Have you asked her yet?" Hizashi's voice was firm.
"Yes sir." Naruto was suddenly very afraid.
"Excellent, but if I find out my niece was not treated with every ounce of the respect she deserves, I will Jukken you back to the days of the Sage of Six Paths. Am I clear?"
"Crystal sir."
"Good, the Council is only planning on saying a few words." Hizashi led the two Academy students into the Council chambers. Naruto and Hinata took their positions
Hisao smiled. "The Council thanks Hinata-sama and Uzumaki-san for their timely arrival. This body is aware of the late hour and will not keep you. The upcoming final exam match between Uzumaki-san and Hinata-sama is an opportunity for the clan to further increase our standing in Konoha. As such, we have requested that Hiashi-sama begin instructing Hinata-sama in the Clan's Advanced techniques. In addition, this council request that Uzumaki-san be trained in a complimentary fighting style."
Hinata bowed and Naruto quickly copied her motion. "We thank the esteemed Council for their recommendations."
Naruto decided to let Hinata do all the talking. The Council said a few more words about how Naruto and Hinata's grades were a source of pride for the clan. Naruto's eyes threatened to glaze over, but thankfully the meeting ended. Kō led the two Academy students from the chamber.
"Neh, Hinata-chan. What did the Council mean by Advanced Techniques?"
Hinata was still in shock that the Clan was so eager for her to advance her training. "P…probably the Hakkeshō Kaiten and the Hakke Rokujūyon Shō."
"I don't know if Iruka-sensei would let you use the Sixty Four Palms in our match next week." Naruto actually sounded disappointed he wouldn't be able to see Hinata literally demolish Sasuke or Sakura.
"True, but I need to start learning the technique. My father mastered the technique when he was nine."
Naruto threw his arm around Hinata. "You'll have it mastered in a week!"
Hinata blushed and looked down. "We… we should study for the exams."
The blond smiled warmly. "Let's check in with Kō and go to Ichiraku or Sayuri's before we get started."
The couple raced to get permission completely unaware they were being watched by the Council.
"Hiashi-sama, we must reiterate our concerns about revealing the truth about the Kyūbi to Naruto." Hisao interlocked his fingers as he leaned forward.
"Councilors, pray tell how you would have the truth revealed to Uzumaki-san?" Hiashi was answered only by silence. "Exactly! Would you have it revealed by an execution of one of Naruto's classmates? Of my daughter or nephew?" No, the course I have worked out with Hokage-sama is the safest way to inform Naruto of his burden."
Hideko was recognized to speak. "I agree with Hiashi-sama. I have disagreed with Hiashi-sama on points of tradition in the past, but this is truly the best course of action. We can provide the support the child will obviously need upon the revelation. Naruto will see that the Clan has always accepted him."
The support of Hideko was a shock to everyone. Hiashi knew there would be a price for his support. The only problem was that he had no idea what that price would be.
The Council had insisted that Naruto remain at the Hyūga compound until Naruto officially became a Genin. Naruto knew something big was brewing completely unrelated to the upcoming final exams or his budding relationship with Hinata. Hajime-sensei had been doing his best to distract the young Clan Ward, but there were only so many hours in the day.
"Uzumaki-san, you have done well for today." The ancient tutor was winded but wore a smile. It was strange to see the teacher who had railed about Naruto's overenthusiastic nature smiling.
"Thank you Hajime-sensei. How have you been enjoying your retirement?" Naruto bowed politely.
The old man laughed. "It has been enjoyable. I have done a great deal of painting. That does not change the fact that I am a Shinobi. I have one last lesson for the evening. There may come a day when you think you are as retired as I am. A Shinobi is never truly retired! If your village calls upon you answer, for loyalty to Konoha transcends everything! Your second greatest loyalty is to your Clan and family. If they summon you, duty demands you answer no matter your condition!"
Naruto nodded. "I understand, Hajime-sensei."
The old man picked up his cane. "Uzumaki-san, you have certainly matured over the years. I have no doubts you will make a magnificent ninja."
"Thank you, Hajime-sensei!" Naruto beamed. The ancient shinobi patted the child on the head.
"I believe that Hinata-sama's training will be done soon. You are dismissed."
Naruto bowed again and bolted through the halls. Free from his training, his mind returned to the conversations he had been hearing for the past two days. Once again, the talk centered on the mysterious 'it'. The Hyūga were discussing why the Hokage had decided to reveal 'it' now. Naruto had noticed the unease in their voices when talking about 'it', but unlike the civilians they did not hate Naruto because of 'it'. His curiosity was burning, but something was telling him that 'it' was a subject best left alone for now.
"Excuse me, Hoheto-san." Naruto asked the tall and muscular Jonin.
"Is there something you need, Uzumaki-san?"
Naruto nodded. "I was wondering where Hiashi-sama and Hinata-sama are training."
The Jonin's squeaking laugh was completely at odds with his physical appearance. "Hiashi-sama is training your girlfriend in the primary dojo."
The Uzumaki went bright red and the Jonin strolled down the hall laughing. The primary dojo was one of the centers of the Hyūga Clan. It was reserved only for ritual combat and training of the Clan Head and the heir. If a non-Hyūga were to enter the hallowed grounds, it would be a serious breach of protocol.
Uzumaki Naruto was never one for protocol.
In addition, Hiashi was already breaching protocol. The Clan Head, as is his right, had invited his twin brother and son to the dojo. Officially, the two were to assist with Hinata's training. The truth was that the twin brothers were training Neji in the techniques as well.
"Naruto-kun, how was your training with Hajime-sensei?" Hizashi asked while Neji recovered from the rigorous training.
"He's old and cranky at times, but Hajime-sensei is a great teacher and ninja. I got some great advice from him." Naruto bowed.
Hiashi helped his exhausted daughter to her feet. Hinata greedily drank from a glass of water Hanabi gave her.
"Brother, are the seals active?" Hiashi asked and received a nod in response. "Children there is something Hizashi and I must ask of you."
Naruto, Hanabi, Hinata and Neji froze in place. The level of secrecy was a bit frightening. Naruto wondered if the mysterious 'it' would be revealed. Hiashi took a deep breath.
"The Hyūga Clan cannot continue to exist as it stands. The Caged Bird Seal is an abomination. The nature of the Main and Branch Houses will eventually doom us to civil war."
The Hyūga children felt their exhaustion triple at Hiashi's declaration. Naruto's confusion was growing, but before he could say anything Hizashi spoke.
"My brother and I long dreamed of healing the rift between the Houses, but fate conspired against us. We are far too restrained by the Council to fulfill our ambitions. Thus, we are entrusting our goals to you. What Hiashi and I are asking of you is nothing less than the destruction of the Hyūga clan."
Hinata gasped and hid her mouth behind her hands. Neji looked to his father for an explanation and Hanabi hugged her sister's leg. The Clan Ward finally spoke.
"Hiashi-sama, Hizashi-sama… What the hell are you talking about? Why am I included?"
"Naruto, there are laws in place that prevent me from revealing information I firmly believe you need to know on pain of death. However, I know that you will become a magnificent Shinobi of Konoha. There is no limit to what you can achieve. To what all of you can achieve. In order to save the Hyūga clan, Hinata, Hanabi and Neji will need outside support."
Hinata was shaking under the weight of the revelations. "F…father… what, what do y…you mean d…destroy the Hyūga C…clan?"
The Clan Head knelt in front of his daughters. He drew them into an embrace. "My daughters, the Clan cannot survive divided. The Caged Bird Seal is evil and the Clan Laws surrounding it are inhuman. Do you think it is right that any Main branch family member could activate the seal on Neji or Hizashi-ojisan and kill them with no punishment?"
Hanabi started crying. "I won't let them!"
The elder sister cried as well. "We are family! Are we the o…only ones w…who care?"
Neji took a deep breath. "I know that there are others in the Clan who would support this goal. The Branch Family would side with us! Kō-san, Hajime-sensei and others in the Main Branch would as well!"
Hizashi nodded. "Our efforts to heal the rift have focused on the children of the Branch and Main families. We cannot guarantee that the entirety of the Branch would side with us. It is up to your generation to save the Clan."
The adults continued their bombardment of conspiracy and hopes. "My brother is correct. We are simply laying the foundations for your ultimate triumph. We have faith in all of you."
Naruto's gaze hardened. "Hiashi-sama, I am grateful that you trust me but I need to know why I am being included in all of this."
Hizashi shook his head. "Naruto, we told you that there is no limit to what you can achieve. Laws we do not agree with permit us from revealing the full truth to you, but… we believe you have the potential to surpass even your father."
Naruto collapsed. "You… you knew who my parents were?"
Hiashi nodded sadly. "They were amazing ninja, Naruto. They loved you greatly. But they had many enemies. They died when the Kyūbi attacked. The Hokage sealed their identities because without them you were vulnerable. My brother and I are putting everyone in this room at risk for nearly telling an S-class secret."
"Father and Uncle, this is a great deal for us to take in. I believe the four of us have a great deal to discuss in private." Neji spoke with an unusually emotional voice.
The family heads nodded and left. The children sat in near silence. Hanabi was whimpering in her sister's arms. Naruto was pacing and Neji stood rigid with his hands behind his back.
"Why did they tell us so soon?" Naruto took the lead. "Only Neji is even an active duty Shinobi. Hinata-chan and I won't be official ninja until after the exams in a week! Hanabi-imouto hasn't even started the Academy yet! Why now? Something has to be forcing their hands."
Neji nodded. "It has to be a Council issue. Seiji-sama and Hisao-sama are both very old. They can't serve much longer."
Hanabi sniffed. "Seiji-sama won't be on the council m…much longer. I heard one of the d…doctors say he was going blind…"
The statement confirmed Neji's theory. Blindness in a clan built around a Dojutsu was practically the equivalent of death.
"Ano, who would replace Seiji-sama?" Hinata had recovered enough to control her stutter.
Neji slapped his face to fight off the fatigue. "I am not sure. We need a course of action."
The only non-Hyūga present huffed loudly. "Well, we have to deal with the Council. Most of those Old Geezers might just die in a few years. Hinata-chan, can you find out who the possible replacements are? We also need to become friends with all the kids our age in the Clan. They need to see us as leaders. More importantly, they need to see each other as family. If things go pear-shaped, we'll probably need the support of other clans. And if we can't get them to support us, we at least need them not to get involved in Hyūga affairs."
Hinata felt her breath catch as the image of Naruto in the Hokage robes flashed in front of her eyes. "I… I agree with Naruto-kun. I… I want our clan to be a family again. Ano, when I'm training with Father to run the Clan, I can find out who is in line for Council seats."
"What can I do to help?" Hanabi chewed her lip.
Naruto smiled. "Keep your ears and eyes open. People won't expect you to be paying attention. If you hear anything important, tell us in secret."
The oldest conspirator present nodded. His face was hard. "This is the most dangerous mission any of us will likely ever have. What we are doing could tear Konoha apart. We need to swear that everything we have talked about and will talk about remains secret."
"W…we are just… kids." Hinata trembled.
"And in less than a week, you will be a soldier, nee-chan."
The firm declaration caused a second silence to descend upon the reeling children. They each swore in turn to keep what had occurred a secret. In the space of twenty minutes, they had sacrificed their childhoods for the safety of Konoha and the Hyūga Clan.
Sasuke blocked Sakura's kick and swept her off her feet. The pinkette was exhausted, but the training was necessary. They had to defeat Naruto and Hinata! The last loyal Uchiha had practically made the Haruno his apprentice. Sakura wouldn't lie that she was giddy at the proximity to her crush. She had quickly learned to appreciate the other benefits. Sasuke had granted her access to some of the Uchiha Library's scrolls. Sakura had poured herself into the genjutsu scrolls. Mizuki-sensei had mentioned that she had amazing potential for genjutsu. Unfortunately, the Academy barely covered genjutsu beyond the basic concepts and how to dispel them. Sasuke-kun had told Sakura that her greatest strength was genjutsu. That had given Sakura an idea.
"Sasuke-kun, I think I should focus on Naruto in our match." Sakura had been proud of herself. She hadn't swooned when she said his name.
"Hinata is your rival. You came to me because you want to beat her." Sasuke flipped a page on his notes.
Sakura nodded. "I know that Sasuke-kun, but China Doll has all the tools to shut down my strong points and exploit my weakness. The Byakugan can see through most genjutsu and Gentle Fist is much stronger than my Taijutsu. Naruto is weak against Genjutsu. The only thing he struggled more with than dispelling Genjutsu was the Bunshin."
"Hn." The inflection of Sasuke's trademark nonverbal response meant that he was a bit impressed. "Very well."
Sakura stumbled to her feet. "I need to get to his sides faster."
"Naruto for all his many, many faults is not a slouch in taijutsu. I am actually pushing you harder than he will."
"I know. Neh, Sasuke-kun… What will you do when you become a Ninja?"
The Uchiha smirked. "I am going to awaken my Sharingan as soon as possible. Then I will kill Itachi. Only with him dead, will I be able rebuild the Uchiha Clan!"
"I can help you with that!" Sakura blurted out. The training partners realized what the kunoichi said at the exact same time. Sakura turned a shade of red that rivaled Hinata and covered her mouth. Sasuke stared at her quietly for a moment. The last Uchiha did something many thought impossible. He laughed.
Hinata and Naruto walked together towards the Academy. Kiba wasn't joining them today because a litter of puppies had just been born. The Inuzuka took births, both canine and human, very seriously. The only Uzumaki respected that about his friend's clan. The Inuzuka placed family above everything but Konoha. Kiba's rant about Uchiha Itachi would be forever burned into Naruto's mind.
"Did you get any sleep last night, Hinata-chan?"
The heiress smiled and leaned into Naruto. "Not really. I had a lot to think about."
Naruto only nodded. "Well, we have a lot of work to do."
The conversation sounded to the world like it was about the upcoming Academy exams. Hinata and Naruto were determined to keep it that way. The pair arrived at the normal time and found only Iruka and a handful of students there.
"Good morning, Naruto-kun, Hinata-sama!" Iruka greeted them warmly.
"Good morning Iruka-sensei!"
Naruto really liked Iruka-sensei. He treated everyone fairly and equally. The teacher didn't have to be at the Academy today. In fact, the Academy was officially closed in the week leading up to the final exams. The reasoning was that students would spend the week training and studying with their clans. However, Konoha had a higher than normal number of Academy Students from civilian families. Iruka couldn't stand to see any of his students fall behind. So, every day he would head to the Academy and help any student who needed it. Iruka didn't know it, but many civilian families had petitioned the Hokage to name the scarred Chunnin headmaster of the Academy.
Hinata and Naruto took their traditional seats and studied chakra theory. Occasionally, the other students would come asking for help. Hinata would show them the concept and Naruto would give the students encouragement.
"Naruto and Hinata-sama, could you come to my desk please?" Iruka called out.
"Yes, Iruka-sensei?" They asked in unison.
The teacher smiled. "It has been a pleasure teaching you. You two will make excellent Shinobi and I hope that when one of you becomes Hokage, you'll remember your old and hopefully retired teacher."
Hinata and Naruto couldn't believe that Iruka had so much faith in them. Hokage? He believed each of them had the potential to be a Hokage?
"I… I don't know what to say, but thank you, Iruka-sensei." Naruto bowed. Hinata quickly followed suit.
"Come on, I'll buy you two lunch. Consider it payment for the D-ranked tutoring mission you just performed."
The trio walked through the streets of Konoha. Hinata accidently let something slip that gave Iruka pause.
"You mean one of those giant two person slingshots?"
Hinata intently studied the ground. "Yes, I was wondering how fast they could be used. They look like fun."
"Pretty fast. I had one as a kid. Mizuki, my other friends and I used them in water balloon fights."
Naruto quickly added. "Yeah, we were thinking of getting one and having a water balloon fight tournament at the Compound. Neji, Hinata-chan and I were thinking of disguising it as 'Byakugan training'."
It was the best lie Naruto had ever told. Naruto and Hinata really didn't want to disappoint Iruka-sensei by telling him they were going to prank Sasuke-teme with it. Their teacher's unshakable confidence in their future success shamed them into not mentioning their planned mischief. Ichiruka Ramen was a welcomed sight. Naruto ordered half a dozen bowls of Ramen. Hinata and Iruka ordered normal portions.
"I know I'm suppose to remain impartial during the exams, but I want you two to know that I'm rooting for you." Iruka said suddenly.
"Thank you, Iruka-sensei." Hinata smiled warmly. Naruto nodded in agreement as he downed his fourth bowl and started on his fifth.
The conversation was light as Naruto finished his final bowl. Iruka paid and parted ways. Naruto and Hinata sat and enjoyed each other's company.
Teuchi took the empty bowls from the couple. "So, when are you two going to be here on a date?"
Naruto and Hinata invented nine new shades of red at the old man's comment.
"I would like to wish all of you the best of luck! This written exam is one of the last steps towards becoming active duty shinobi of Konoha! I am proud of all of you! This class, without a doubt, is one of the most talented collections of aspiring ninja I have ever seen! In this group, I see a bright future! Perhaps, sitting in this room is the future Rokudaime Hokage!"
I see your Legacy, Minato. It should be you giving this speech, not me.
The class was in a state of near shock. Neither Mizuki-sensei or Iruka-sensei was handing out the test. It was the Hokage! As if this test wasn't stressful enough! There were several loud gulps as the Professor sat at the teacher's desk.
"You may begin!" The Hokage commanded in a warm grandfatherly tone.
Naruto focused on the test. He had studied his ass off for this! Then he saw the sixth question: What effect does a Raiton Jutsu have on a target's motor function if the jutsu strikes the target in the space between the right and left lung?
They were starting on Chakra theory! He was doomed!
Hinata was methodically making her way through the test. She was incredibly nervous, but Naruto was next to her. They had studied almost every moment they weren't training for the Ninjutsu exam or the match with Billboard and the Teme. Then again, the Hokage was watching her exam! She closed her eyes and took a calming breath. Hinata had never wanted a cinnamon roll so bad in her life.
Akamaru appeared to be the single most bored creature in all of creation. The nin-ken puppy was curled up at the edge of the desk with its eyes barely open. Every once and a while, it would whimper or yip as if dreaming.
In truth, he was helping Kiba cheat like there was no tomorrow. They were Ninja! They were suppose to cheat!
"Time!" The Hokage did not shout, but everyone in the classroom put down their pencils. "Please bring up your tests. I will have them graded by the end of the third exam. Once again, I wish you all the best of luck!"
The students left the main classroom and were greeted by Mizuki-sensei. "Well, you finished the first exam, please follow me to the next room. Your Ninjutsu exam is about to begin."
Mizuki led the first student into the other room. The remaining students quickly gathered into their traditional cliques. The Sandaime Hokage, the original and not the Shadow Clone grading the tests, sat in his office appraising the groups for potential cells. He saw that a few cliques would make solid teams. Hibachi and the twins Kenji and Miho got along very well. They had similar skills and talents such as above average genjutsu scores and a natural affinity for traps. Wantanabe Yuji was expressing great interest in Naruto, Inuzuka Kiba and Hyūga Hinata for his first team. There was also the second generation Ino-Shika-Cho.
Naruto sighed. "I can't believe the Hokage gave our test! As if there wasn't enough pressure already."
"N…naruto-kun, I think the Hokage being there was part of the test as much as the questions. They were seeing how we dealt with unexpected stress." Hinata gave voice to her own nervousness.
Kiba gaped. "Unexpected stress! We had enough expected stress with just the test!"
Mizuki emerged. "Uzumaki Naruto, please come with me."
"Be right there, Mizuki-sensei!" He turned to his friends. "Wish me luck!"
"Luck dude!" Akamaru barked in unison with his partner.
"Do your best, Naruto-kun!" Hinata called out. The sudden realization that everyone was staring at her caused her to flush red.
Mizuki sat next to Iruka. "Welcome to the Ninjutsu exam. First begin with the Henge no Jutsu."
Naruto nodded and flashed through the Dog, Boar and Tiger seals. "Henge!"
The puff of smoke disappeared and a perfect copy of Iruka sensei appeared flashing a v-for-victory sign. Mizuki sighed in annoyance and Iruka smiled in approval.
"Very good Naruto!" Iruka continued to beam. "Next, is the Kawarimi no Jutsu. Begin."
All of Naruto's teachers, from Yuji-sensei to Hajime-sensei to Iruka-sensei had all stressed the importance of the Body Replacement. Thus, Naruto had practiced this technique a great deal. His hand seals were crisp and quick. Even Mizuki-sensei was grudgingly impressed. Naruto switched places with one of the logs that had been left in the room for the exam.
"Good use of hand seals. Now, use the Bunshin technique." Mizuki ordered.
Naruto nodded and flashed the unique hand sign. "Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!"
Nearly two dozen perfect clones of Naruto emerged from the cloud of smoke. The original wore a triumphant smile. Iruka was about to record that Naruto passed when Mizuki interrupted.
"I was unaware you were hard of hearing, Naruto. I gave you an order to use the Bunshin technique."
Iruka gave his friend a questioning look. "I don't see the problem, Mizuki. Naruto performed a far more difficult technique and did so flawlessly."
Mizuki shook his head. "The boy must learn to properly obey orders. If he can't follow simple instructions, how can he be a proper member of a cell? He will be as big of a threat to his team as the enemy."
Naruto bristled as Mizuki's dislike for him was finally revealed. The insinuation that Naruto would ever put Hinata-chan or any other Leaf Shinobi filled in danger him with burning anger. Naruto would rather take a running leap off the Hokage Monument than do anything to hurt a fellow Konoha Ninja. Iruka and Mizuki continued to argue. Every once and a while, Mizuki would take a shot at Naruto. The grey haired bastard would generally make a snide comment about failing to live up to the Hyūga's high standards.
Suddenly, Mizuki's plan hit him like the Jukken waiting for Naruto from Hiashi-sama if Naruto didn't treat Hinata-chan to the best date ever. Not that Naruto would ever dream of treating Hinata-chan like anything less than the princess she was, but the point still stood.
Mizuki wanted Naruto to attack him.
Why was he trying to provoke Naruto like this? Was Mizuki really that interested in making sure the Teme won Rookie of the Year?
Naruto watched as the argument became far more heated. He didn't know what to do and was about to send one of his clones to get another teacher.
"I believe this debate has gone on long enough." Everyone immediately froze, including the agitated Shadow clones. "Young Naruto may have not demonstrated the standard Bunshin technique, but as Iruka-sensei said, the Kage Bunshin is a far more taxing skill."
Mizuki gulped. "But, Hokage-sama!" Naruto resisted the urge to laugh at the horrified expression on the teacher's face. No one had noticed the Hokage enter the room.
"Young Naruto passes the exam. Mizuki-san, you are to report to the Tower at the conclusion of the examination. I expect you to arrive promptly." Mizuki barely had time to respond in the affirmative before the Hokage vanished in a puff of smoke.
That was a Shadow Clone! I thought that was the actual Hokage! Naruto thought in awe.
"Excellent work, Naruto! You can go now. Please tell Hinata-sama she is up next." Iruka was proud, but his voice was strained.
Naruto bowed politely at Iruka, but completely ignored Mizuki. He quickly found Hinata. "You're up next, Hinata-chan. Be careful, Mizuki is pissed off. He tried to screw me over but Jiji tore him a new one for it. Good luck!"
Hinata flashed a worried smile. "Thank you, Naruto-kun."
Kiba stood at Naruto's side. "Don't worry, man. Mizuki wouldn't risk pissing off the Hyūga on top of getting the Hokage mad at him."
The blond nodded. "Yeah. I mean, if they threatened to Jukken me back to the Sage of Six Paths for taking Hinata-chan on a bad date, imagine what they'd do to Mizuki if he tried to cause Hinata to fail her exam."
"ANBU would never find Mizuki-teme's body." Kiba said with absolute confidence.
Hinata emerged from the testing room and rejoined her two friends. "Naruto-kun! We need to get ready for our match."
"Alright." Naruto turned to Kiba and Akamaru. "Good luck you two!"
Shino knocked Maasaki from the ring in an almost nonchalant manner. The taijutsu exam had been fun to watch, Naruto admitted. Kiba had won his match quickly. Kenji had practically leapt from the ring when the fight was announced. Granted, neither Naruto or Hinata had paid very much attention to the fights. They were concentrating on their own preparations. The match against Sasuke and Sakura was their primary focus.
"I guess we'll stick with Plan A, Hinata-chan." Naruto whispered as he stretched.
Hinata entered into split and Naruto felt his higher brain functions begin to shut down. "I… I agree, Naruto-kun. The Teme has the Uchiha Crest on his outfit. That means he knows the Grand Fireball. I can defend against that with my Kaiten."
"Yeah, but…" Naruto was silenced by a smile from Hinata.
"Ano, N…naruto-kun, p…please h…have faith in me." Hinata still couldn't bring herself to admit the true depths of her feelings to Naruto. The constant exposure to Naruto had built up her confidence, but there were still times when she needed Naruto's approval and support to push forward.
"I always have faith in you." Naruto grinned. "With all the training we've gotten from your family, there is no way we can lose."
Hinata returned the grin shyly. She finished stretching and stood. On the opposite side of the ring, Sasuke and Sakura were completing their own preparations.
"Are you ready, Sakura?" It was the first time Sasuke had spoken to her since they left the training grounds.
Sakura was buoyed by the small verbal acknowledgment. "I am, Sasuke-kun."
There was no response as Sasuke merely returned his attention to the semi-final fight between Kiba and Hibachi. The Inuzuka and the nin-ken circled their opponent. The class was reminded of a pack of wolves circling a deer. Hibachi began a standard attack pattern. Kiba batted aside the punches and sidestepped the kicks. The feral smile on Kiba's face never faltered, even when Hibachi got a grazing hit on his shoulder. Kiba promptly kicked Hibachi in the gut. The brown-haired student doubled over from the impact. He cried out in pain as Akamaru latched on his back.
"I give!"
"Winner, Inuzuka Kiba." Mizuki's voice held false cheer.
The kunoichi final was between Ino and Ami. The fight lasted several minutes as each student blocked and countered. Ino eventually connected with a punch that sent Ami sprawling. The boy's final was between Shino and Kiba. Naruto was eager to watch what was sure to be a great fight. He shouted encouragement to his friend as Iruka-sensei told them to begin. Kiba and Akamaru immediately charged the Aburame. They pounced as one, intent on ending the fight in a quick and spectacular manner. The bug user simply dove to the ground. The Inuzuka sailed over his prone opponent and landed outside the ring.
"What the f…" Kiba shouted, but was cut off by Iruka's overly loud announcement that Shino had won.
Mizuki congratulated Shino on his victory and called for the teams to enter the ring. The graduating class buzzed with excitement. Iruka caught several students placing bets and chewed them out. Sasuke, Hinata, Naruto and Sakura stared each other down. The dislike was almost visible in the air between them.
"You two can't possible win." Sasuke taunted.
"I… I am sorry, Sasuke. I can't, I can't h…hear you o…over the s…sound of my a…active Dojutsu." Hinata stammered out the insult Naruto had been coaching her on for the past week. Sasuke shook with anger at the insult and Sakura made a dismissive noise. Naruto, for his part, was laughing heartily.
Iruka rolled his eyes. "Remember, you are forbidden from trying to cripple or severely injure each other. Begin!"
The crowded gym erupted as the children cheered. Kiba was shouting loudly for his friends as Akamaru howled. Naruto had always possessed heightened senses and was shocked for a moment.
Did I just hear Shino wish me luck?
Naruto quickly shook the thought from his head. The blond stared intently at Sakura.
"Realizing how much hotter I am than the China Doll?" Sakura said in a silky voice.
"Nah, I'm just wondering how I'm going to hit anything other than your fucking huge forehead."
Sakura wailed and charged. Naruto expected her to attack straight on, but she rolled to her side and kicked out at his right shoulder. The Jinchūriki couldn't dodge in time and took a blow to the shoulder. Several people cheered. Others gasped in shock that Sakura had managed to even hit Naruto.
Naruto simply rolled his shoulder. "Not bad."
He flashed his new favorite hand seal. "Kage Bunshin no Jutsu."
"Oh crap." The pinkette said in a small voice and was completely surrounded by grinning Narutos.
A few feet away, Sasuke was dodging an onslaught of Jukken strikes. The last Uchiha couldn't block Hinata's attacks. If he did, the small heiress would simply take the opportunity to shut down the tenketsu in his arms. The Hyūga clan was inferior to the Uchiha, but Sasuke had to admit their taijutsu style was the most devastating on the planet. Sasuke quickly wondered if he could duplicate the style when he activated his Sharingan. The happy distraction slowed his movement for a heartbeat and Hinata managed to land a glancing blow on Sasuke's left side. The Uchiha leapt away in order to get out of Hinata's short reach.
He grunted as he landed. The area where the Jukken strike landed was already numbed. He had to end this quickly. The Uchiha flashed through the Hand seals almost reverently.
"Katon: Gōkakyū no Jutsu!" The fireball leapt from his lips and roared its rage at the petite Hyūga.
Shouts of horror escaped from the crowd. Hinata was clearly breathing hard and fast.
"Hakkeshō Kaiten!" There was an unmistakable quaver in Hinata's voice. The Grand Fireball impacted against the chakra sphere.
"How! There is no way you could master that technique!"
Sakura charged the nearest Naruto and cast a simple Genjutsu. It was one from the Uchiha library. The Genjutsu, known as the Haze of Time, dulled the target's perception of time. It gave the illusion of the caster being much faster than they really were. She threw a punch at the Naruto in the face, but it dodged.
"Something you keep forgetting, Billboard! I'm a Shadow Clone! If the Original ain't affected, I ain't affected!"
Sakura couldn't believe it! That wasn't the real Naruto. Where was he?
"Right here!" Sakura's eyes went wide with shock as Naruto used Kawarimi to switch places with the Clone. Naruto knocked Sakura out with a harsh punch to the gut. The Clones high-fived each other and followed the Original Naruto to support Hinata.
Hinata was exhausted from her single Heavenly Spin. It took an incredible portion of her chakra to perform. When the strain of the Kaiten was combined by the constant drain of the Byakugan, Hinata was running low on Chakra. She was so exhausted she collapsed and weakly supported herself on her hands and knees.
"You're finished! That technique took all of your Chakra! There is no way you can win a one on one fight, Hyūga!"
"Good thing this is a seventeen on one fight then!" A chorus of Naruto's shouted in anger.
Sasuke went wide eyed. How the hell did he make so many? A Jonin would struggle with two! The lapdog could only produce one in class!
The onrushing horde of Narutos was the far greater threat than the exhausted Hyūga. Even as he changed targets, Sasuke never slowed his hand signs.
"Katon: Gōkakyū no Jutsu!" The fireball incinerated half of the onrushing Clones. Sasuke smirked at his victory.
"D..don't think I…I am done!" Hinata wheezed. I have to make Naruto-kun proud!
The original Naruto had never seen Hinata move so gracefully. Hinata practically danced as she shut down her opponent's tenketsu points.
Any other opponent would have yielded.
Any other opponent would not have been Uchiha Sasuke. His left side was painfully numb and his right arm was incapable of molding chakra. He charged anyway and fought Naruto in taijutsu. He dispelled a single clone before the original and a clone tossed Sasuke out of the ring.
"Winners, Hyūga Hinata and Uzumaki Naruto!" Iruka announced with pride. Naruto ran over to Hinata and spun her around. The heiress's blush was hidden by her fatigue. The sudden whooping from the boys and the squeals of the girls, however, caused her to practically glow.
Mizuki helped Sasuke and Sakura to their feet. After a moment of recovery, the class was led back to the main classroom. Iruka stood front and center with a proud smile on his face.
"You are all probably tired of hearing this by now, but it has been an absolute pleasure to be your teacher. When you hear your name called, come forward and accept your Hitai-ate!"
Iruka began calling off names. It seemed that almost everyone who had attempted the final exam passed. Naruto almost caused Hinata to trip down the stairs with his exuberant cheering when Iruka announced she was the first place kunoichi. Naruto caused a second scene when he and Kiba spent nearly two minutes performing an overly elaborate handshake.
Iruka stopped as he reached the end of the roll. "We now come to the final two graduates. These two exceptional shinobi were practically neck and neck all year. In fact, the title of Rookie of the Year came down to the grade of the final exam. Uzumaki Naruto, congratulations on graduation!"
Naruto was filled with undeniable pride. He was now an official Konoha Ninja! He was only slightly disappointed that Sasuke had beaten him for Rookie of the Year.
"I'm proud of you, Naruto." Iruka confided in the blond as Naruto became a Genin.
"Thanks, Iruka-sensei."
Iruka nodded. "And now, I am pleased to announce our Rookie of the Year! Uchiha Sasuke!"
Sasuke and Naruto passed each other on the stairs. "I win, lapdog."
Naruto bit back a retort and sat beside Hinata. They waited as Mizuki said some parting remarks.
"Congratulations and we wish you the best of luck as you serve Konoha! Report back to the Academy tomorrow morning to receive your Genin team assignments!"
The newly promoted ninja cheered and were dismissed. Parents, relatives, guardians and other well wishers were waiting outside.
"Man, its like someone started the Festival three days early." Kiba whistled as a civilian man popped a cork off a bottle of something.
"Ano, the...the t…timing of g…graduation is, isn't l…likely a coincidence." Hinata blushed as she mentally corrected Kiba. It's actually two days, nineteen hours and forty-two minutes away.
Naruto nodded. "Hinata's usually right about these things." He suddenly jumped in the air and shouted. "Sorry, a bit excited."
A gruff laugh cut off any response. "Don't worry pup! You have every right to be."
"Hi mom." Kiba waved as Akamaru jumped off his head. The nin-pup started barking and yipping in conversation with Kuromaru.
Tsume hugged her son. "I'm proud of you pup. You did your clan and pack proud today." The alpha female of the Inuzukas turned to her son's pack. "Congratulations to the two of you as well."
"Thank you, Tsume-san." Naruto and Hinata chorused. Tsume and Kiba headed off as the boy excitedly retold and embellished his fights in the taijutsu exam.
Naruto and Hinata laughed as they heard Tsume order Kiba to 'cut the crap'.
"I can't believe it graduated and with honors!" A civilian woman mumbled within earshot of Naruto and Hinata.
"Don't talk about that here! Not only is talking about it forbidden, you'll anger the Hokage and the Hyūga clan!" Another civilian harshly cut off the other.
"N…naruto-kun, what is it?" Hinata whispered.
The blond instinctively ran his fingers across his whisker-like birthmarks. "I… I don't know, Hinata-chan. I've only really heard civilians talk about it."
The two wove their way through the crowd. Hiashi, Hizashi, Kō and a few other noteworthy Hyūga were waiting.
Hiashi stepped forward. "The Clan has been informed of your graduation and placement and is very proud." The others nodded almost ritualistically. Hiashi hugged his daughter. "And I am proud as your father, Hinata."
Kō ruffled Naruto's hair. "Congratulations, Naruto. I'm proud of you, little brother. Don't worry too much about finishing second to Sasuke. Enemy ninja won't care about Academy ranks."
Naruto smiled contently. "Thanks, nii-san. Besides, Hinata-chan and I whooped Sasuke and Sakura's butt in the match!"
Hiashi and Hinata had regained their Hyūga poise. "I am sure the two of you can inform the clan of your victory at lunch."
"Very, very well Father." Hinata smiled, absorbing Naruto's confidence.
Naruto's grin widened to epic proportions. "So, where are we going to eat?"
Seiji grinned. "As today is about your accomplishments, Hinata-sama and you may choose."
The Genin nodded as they came to an unspoken agreement. This wasn't going to be as funny as the Slingshot was going to be, but it would do.
"Naruto and Hinata-chan! Congratulations on your…" Old Man Teuchi greeted two of his favorite customers warmly. He suddenly realized who was with them. "Hyūga-samas!"
Teuchi was dumbfounded for a moment as he realized the standing of the current guests currently at his Ramen stand.
"Hey Old Man! We graduated!" Naruto showed off his hitai-ate. "I'll have three bowls of miso and three bowls of beef!"
Hinata bowed. "Hello, Teuchi-san. I'll have an order of chicken ramen."
Teuchi nodded numbly as he wrote down the orders.
Hiashi took a seat next to his daughter. "Order of Pork."
"How's the shrimp ramem?" Seiji asked innocently.
"It's, ah, one of my favorites."
The aging councilor nodded. "I'll have two."
Kō and the remaining councilors ordered. Teuchi hurried to the back and called for his daughter. Naruto leaned over to Hinata.
"Old Man Teuchi is either going to thank us or hate us for this."
The Hyūga Clan lavished a feast for their newest graduates. The current council was as complementary of Hinata and Naruto as Hiashi and Hizashi. Hanabi took to her role as the unseen eyes and ears of the young conspirators with gusto. She quietly told her sister that she had overheard some scary talk from powerful members of the clan. Hinata instructed her to write what she remembered down for the next secret meeting.
After the celebratory feast, Hinata had found Naruto sitting on the roof of the guest wing.
"Ano, Naruto-kun, I t…thought the Council said that you were free to go back with Kō after you g…graduated."
Naruto shrugged. "Evidently, they want me to stay until we get our Cell assignments." He suddenly faked a hurt tone. "Unless you want to get rid of me."
Hinata began to stammer that she would never even think that. Naruto's laughter snapped her back to reality. "That's… that's not funny, Naruto-kun!"
"Maybe I just wanted to see you blush. It's cute." Said blush increased a thousand fold.
"T…thank you… N…naruto-kun. I… I'll see you tomorrow. G…good night." Hinata spoke quickly. Naruto believed she simply hadn't really gotten over her shyness. In truth, she was terrified of the thought of being put in a different cell than Naruto.
Hinata struggled to hide her worry as she walked to the Academy with Naruto and Kiba. The trio took their traditional seats for the last time. Iruka-sensei stood at the front of the room.
"Welcome, Genin of Konoha! I will announce your Team assignments and Jonin instructors."
The scarred Chunnin began listing off the teams. Hinata was quietly praying that she would be placed in Naruto's cell.
"Now, Team 4 under Wantanabe Yuji: Hyūga Hinata…"
Please be Naruto-kun! Hinata prayed fervently.
Oh man, I want to be on that team! Naruto was bouncing in anticipation.
"Inuzuka Kiba…"
Kiba's eyes went wide. Come on, put Naruto on this team! The pack has to stay together!
"And Uzumaki Naruto!" Iruka finished with smile.
Naruto literally leapt onto the table and danced. "BEST! TEAM! EVER!"
Author's Notes: Plot advancement no jutsu! We're finally out of the Academy and will be going to the main plot!
Again, please Review! It is how I measure my worth as a human being! :D
Happy New Year!