The sun had begun its descent, casting a warm golden hue over Konoha. The tranquil evening air was filled with the sounds of cicadas as Naruto Uzumaki and his sister, approached the grand gates of the Hyuga compound. The compound stood as an imposing testament to the Hyuga clan's heritage, its traditional architecture exuding an air of formality and elegance.
Naruto Uzumaki stepped forward, his presence commanding yet approachable. He wore a striking formal outfit that perfectly blended traditional and modern elements. His black jacket, adorned with intricate gold patterns, shimmered subtly under the lantern lights, creating an aura of elegance and sophistication. Beneath the jacket, a crisp white dress shirt with subtle vertical pinstripes peeked through, adding a touch of classic formality to his ensemble. The black bow tie at his neck was the final touch, lending a timeless and refined look to his attire. Notable accessories included two medallions pinned to the left side of his jacket, each featuring detailed designs that suggested significance and honor. A pair of dangling earrings added a modern and edgy flair to his overall appearance. His spiky blonde hair and the distinctive markings on his cheeks made him instantly recognizable, a figure of both strength and grace.
He glanced at Yugito, She is wearing an off-the-shoulder, form-fitting black dress, which accentuates her figure and gives her a sophisticated appearance. Around her neck is a black choker necklace, adding a touch of elegance to her ensemble. Draped over her arms is a large, dark jacket, complementing her outfit and adding a casual, yet chic touch.
As they neared the gate, two Hyuga guards, their expressions stern and unwavering, stepped forward to intercept them.
"Halt," one of the guards commanded, his voice firm. "State your names and purpose."
Naruto, accustomed to such formalities but still feeling uneasy under the scrutinizing gaze of the guards, spoke up confidently, "I am Naruto Uzumaki, and this is my sister, Yugito Uzumaki. We are here as guests of Lord Hiashi for the dinner party."
The guards exchanged a skeptical glance. "Names, again?"
Yugito's calm demeanor didn't falter as she replied evenly, "Naruto and Yugito Uzumaki. We received a formal invitation."
The guards hesitated, their suspicion palpable. One of them reached for a kunai, clearly ready to escalate the situation.
Just as tension began to escalate, a commanding voice interrupted them. "That won't be necessary."
Hiashi Hyuga appeared from within the compound, his presence commanding and dignified. Clad in traditional Hyuga attire, his Byakugan eyes scanned the scene with a mix of curiosity and authority.
The guards immediately straightened, their expressions turning deferential. "Lord Hiashi," one of them acknowledged with a deep bow.
Hiashi's gaze shifted to Naruto and Yugito, his demeanor softening slightly. "My apologies for the misunderstanding," he said, addressing the siblings directly. "Please forgive my guards' overzealousness. You are expected. Follow me."
Naruto nodded tersely, his irritation at the guards dissipating in the face of Hiashi's calm demeanor. Yugito offered a polite bow. "Thank you, Lord Hiashi."
As they followed Hiashi through the gates and into the courtyard, Naruto couldn't help but mutter under his breath, "Guess they weren't expecting us."
Hiashi overheard and offered a small smile. "Formalities are important to some, especially when it concerns security," he explained, though his tone held a hint of apology. "Come, the dinner will begin shortly."
Naruto and Yugito exchanged a glance, both relieved to have the tense moment behind them. With Hiashi leading the way, they walked deeper into the Hyuga compound, ready to face the formalities and intrigues that awaited them at the dinner party.
As they approached the grand doors leading into the Hyuga main hall, Hiashi turned to Naruto and Yugito with a polite yet serious expression.
"Before we proceed to dinner, the elders have expressed a desire to speak with both of you," Hiashi said, his voice carrying the weight of tradition and expectation. "It won't take long."
Naruto exchanged a glance with Yugito, his annoyance evident even through their telepathic connection. "Great, just what we need," Naruto muttered mentally, his frustration clear.
Yugito, always composed, nodded subtly. "Let's get this over with," she replied, her tone indicating a readiness to face whatever awaited them.
Hiashi led them through the ornate doors into the main hall of the Hyuga estate. The room was adorned with traditional decorations and lit with soft, ambient lighting. At the far end, seated in a semi-circle, were the elders of the Hyuga clan, their expressions a mix of curiosity and solemnity.
Hiashi sat in the center, a position that symbolized his status as the head of the Hyuga clan. His presence commanded respect, and his Byakugan eyes surveyed the room with a calm authority.
Naruto and Yugito approached respectfully, bowing deeply to the elders as a sign of deference. Hiashi acknowledged their gesture with a nod, a silent support in this formal ritual.
After his entrance, the elders begin signaling each other with subtle body language and eye movements which the blonds catch immediately.
Elder 3, a stern man with a critical gaze, subtly signaled, "Is this really the boy Hiashi-sama told us about?"
Elder 6, his eyes skeptical, responded, "He looks like nothing special. Was the Sandaime speaking the truth of his lineage?"
Elder 1 added with a slight shake of his head, "Their chakra signatures are less than genin. How could they have beaten seven of Konoha's clan heirs or be who Hiashi says?"
Female Elder 4, with a more contemplative look, subtly suggested, "I believe we should be silent and wait to see the outcome of these talks. If our clan head thinks this boy powerful, there must be a reason."
Elder 5, observing Naruto and Yugito's posture, agreed, "Just observe them. Their sitting position is that of experienced shinobi. The boy and girl are ready to react to us at a moment's notice."
Female Elder 2, her expression one of disdain, dismissed the notion, "I doubt that very much; the girl is probably scared witless of us, and I have heard that she is just another demon like the boy."
Hiashi, noticing the ongoing subtle communications, finally spoke up with a calm yet firm voice, addressing the elders directly. "If you haven't noticed yet, the boy and girl caught on to what you all have been doing from the beginning and have been deciphering it."
The elders' expressions shifted from skepticism to surprise, realizing that their private conversation had not been so private after all. Naruto and Yugito, maintaining their composure, exchanged a knowing glance.
Hiashi continued, his voice steady, "Naruto and Yugito Uzumaki are not to be underestimated. They are here as our honored guests, and I expect them to be treated with the respect they deserve."
One of the elders, a woman with piercing eyes and a demeanor that bespoke centuries of tradition, spoke first. "Naruto Uzumaki, Yugito Uzumaki," she began, her voice carrying authority. "We are honored by your presence tonight. As guests of the Hyuga clan, we wish to discuss matters of mutual interest. But I must ask, how do you know ANBU communication."
Naruto suppressed a sigh, maintaining his outward composure despite his inner reluctance. Yugito, ever the diplomat, spoke up with a calm voice, "Naruto's guardian when he was younger taught him and then he taught me."
Hiashi nodded thoughtfully "Understood. Now, I am curious about your other companions, Naruto. Where are they?"
Naruto straightened, his voice clear and respectful. "They are currently handling a mission for the Hokage, Lord Hiashi. They wished to attend but their duties come first."
"The life of a shinobi is one of duty and sacrifice. We are grateful for their service and for your presence here tonight."Hiashi responded.
Naruto and Yugito both nodded in acknowledgment, appreciating Hiashi's understanding and respect. The elders, now more subdued, seemed to accept Hiashi's judgment, and the tension in the room began to dissipate.
They didn't dare mention what they were actually doing.
(What they were doing- Caution- Dark content)
The blinding fluorescent lights flicker to life, casting harsh shadows in the plain white room. Slowly, a slim woman opens her eyes, feeling disoriented and groggy. A sensation like she's consumed a case of beer lingers, though she can't remember drinking. Her dirty blonde colored hair clings to her scalp, damp with sweat and grime, adding to her discomfort. She takes in her surroundings with growing unease, unsure of where she is or how she got here. A rush of anxiety quickens her heartbeat.
She finds herself lying on a filthy floor, the once-white cinder block walls now a sickly gray from accumulated grime. Against one wall stands a silver steel door, beside which a metal platform sits about four inches high, connected to the door by several wires.
Nearby, a table draped with a sheet catches her eye. She hesitates to investigate what lies beneath, her focus drawn to the door instead. Moving swiftly, she grasps the handle and pulls, but the door remains firmly shut. Frustration mounts as she puts her weight into it, yet it refuses to yield.
A sudden hiss of static breaks the silence from behind her. She turns to see a television, unnoticed until now, flicker to life. An image appears on the screen—a grotesque doll resembling a fox. Her back against the wall, she recoils at the sight. The doll's presence triggers an inexplicable fear, intensified by memories of a notorious demon fox. The mere thought of it turns her stomach.
In a harsh, menacing voice, the fox doll begins to speak, its words sending a chill down her spine.
"Hello, Sakuya Haruno, sister of council member Mebuki Haruno. By now you have noticed that you are in a room with one way out. At the moment, that way is locked." She now stared at the screen not terrified with the actually fox dummy on the the screen... but what it just said afterward scared her to no end. "Throughout your life you have used your body to gain you everything you desired. You have used your body to gain yourself money, men, and status. You even raped a 5 year old boy with the help of your sister so you could breed strong children who would grant you more of the status you two craved more than any type of drug."
"It has been the key to your success and now your body will be the key to your escape."
"Near the door is a scale. The scale is connected to the door. The door will only unlock when the scale reads the exact weight of 92.56 pounds. You must get your weight down to 92.56 pounds. On the table you will find several tools that you can use to remove anything from your body that you deem unnecessary to get down to the target weight. You only have thirty minutes to complete this task. The room will begin to fill with a toxic myasthma stronger than any gas known to man... or demon. In ten minutes you will become light headed. In twenty minutes you will pass out. In thirty minutes you will die. Remember Sakuya, your target weight is 92.56 pounds. Your body has been your tool to gain all your desires. Do you desire freedom enough to endanger the body you so cherish?"
"Live or die...the choice is yours."
The television screen goes black. Suddenly there is a hiss from one corner. There is a vent and the toxic myasthma is coming through at an incredible rate. Sakuya pulls her shirt off and runs to the vent. She tries to shove the shirt into the vent to close off the inflow of gas. The vent is too large and her shirt won't cover it completely. At most, her shirt will only slow the gas.
Sakuya quickly regretted being so close to the vent. The fumes made her head hurt and her eyes water. She ran to the television. It looked pretty heavy. Maybe she could put that on the scale. She hefted at it, but it was bolted to the wall. "Shit!" Sakuya hissed.
She ran to the metal table and tossed the white sheet off. There were scalpels, hand saws, butcher knives, straight razors, and scissors lying neatly across the surface. She swiped her hands across the surface of the table sending all the utensils to the floor. She piled them on the scale. The digital screen read 24.65 pounds. Sakuya swore again. She grabbed the table and tried to lift it onto the scale. The table too was bolted to the floor.
Sakuya wailed loudly while turning and pounding as hard as she could on the door. "Help me!" she screamed. Judging by the looks of the room it hadn't been in use for a long time... so Sakuya was well away from any help.
Sakuya kicked off her shoes and shuffled out of her jeans. She breathed out quickly and stepped onto the scale. She placed a lock of loose hair behind her ear as she looked down to read the screen. It read 104.60 pounds.
"Oh Kami! No, no no no!" Sakuya sobbed.
Sakuya tried to do the math in her head. Given her state of mind, she couldn't concentrate on numbers very well.
She chucked off her underwear. She didn't care if the creepy fox puppet could be watching her through a camera. She just wanted to lose however much weight to survive.
The pink haired woman snatched up a pair of scissors. She grabbed handfuls of her hair and began to snip them off. Wads of blonde hair floated to the dirty floor at her feet. Sakuya's self proclaimed tresses now lay scattered at her feet.
She knew that wouldn't be enough weight lost to reach her goal, but she knew that every bit would help. She dropped to her hands and knees. She shoved two fingers down her throat and tickled the back of her throat. The result was instantaneous. Sakuya's body tightened up on itself as she wretched the contents of her stomach on the nasty floor. The stench of her vomit quickly masked any trace of the gas at that time.
Shakily, the female Haruno rose to her feet. Her body was trembling. She wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. She ran her hands over her head and felt her patchy, stubbly scalp.
She hobbled onto the scale. According to the reading, she had lost just over a pound. Sakuya knew what she had to do if she wanted to survive. She sobbed as she snatched up a scalpel from the floor. In her left hand she grabbed a mass of skin at her hip. In her shaking right hand she held the scalpel. She bit her lip and jabbed the blade through her skin. The former pink haired woman screamed out with an extreme pain that she had never felt before. There was a "splat" as a handful of flesh landed on the floor.
Delirious with pain, the woman grabbed another handful of flesh on the front of her stomach. She sliced three times to remove that patch of flesh. It landed a few inches from the other piece.
Blood was now pouring down her front. The metal under her bare feet was now slippery. Sakuya already had trouble keeping her balance. She pitched to the side and her face scraped against the wall. It was hard for her to keep her eyes in focus.
Sakuya had removed most of the excess skin and the minimal amount of fat that she had around her stomach. She looked at the scale. The screen now read 97.03 pounds. Sakuya had a lot more weight to lose.
Haruno lost her balance and toppled off the scale. She lay curled on the floor for just a moment. Her breathing was rapid and shallow. The scalpel, slippery with blood had slid from her grip. Her eyes fell upon a butcher knife. She grabbed it by the wooden handle.
Sakuya grabbed her left breast. She took a deep breath and bit her lip again. She placed the cold blade against her skin. She screamed through her teeth. She gnawed so ferociously on her lip that she chewed right through her lip. Her left breast joined the other pieces of flesh on the floor. In a moment, her right breast joined the other meat.
Sakuya was fading quickly from the loss of blood. The smell of the gas was slowly rising over the reek of her vomit and blood like an inevitable tide. She crawled over her pants and her thick shoes to get back on the scale. It now read 95.87 pounds.
Sakuya Haruno's face was chalky white now. She knew she had to lose a lot more weight fast if she wanted to get out of the room and get help. She picked up a hand saw. It didn't weigh very much but she was so weak, she had trouble picking it up. She placed the blade of the saw against her shin. She began to saw back and forth with her remaining strength.
The woman's severed leg now lay piled with her other pieces. There was so much blood everywhere. She threw the saw from the scale. She didn't want it to include that unnecessary weight. Sakuya looked to the digital screen. She couldn't believe her eyes.
The screen read 95.87 pounds. It hadn't changed at all. After she had removed her leg, there was no change in weight. Then she looked at the edge of the scale. Her shoe was wedged under the edge of the metal platform. It had gotten shoved under when she crawled back over onto the scale. Sakuya tugged at the shoe.
The shoe came loose. The digital screen now read 90.31 pounds. She was under the target weight. The door wouldn't open unless the weight was exactly 92.56 pounds.
Sakuya feebly reached out to grab her leg to place it on the scale. Her fingers touched the jagged edge of bone that sat at the core of her severed leg. The Haruno couldn't tell that the bone was sharp to the touch. She had no feeling left anywhere. Sakuya's arm went limp and lay on the floor.
Sakuya's mind fluttered back to her days of the event. She saw herself dancing, enticing men to her with her curves. She saw herself making men beg for her body. Sakuya saw herself agreeing with her older sister that they would carry the seeds of the Kyuubi boy. She saw herself tricking a little blond haired boy to spend the night with them while offering him food and a warm place to stay. She remembered said boy playing with her niece Sakura while they slide a sleeping pill in his food.
Sakuya remembered all his cries and screams for them to stop while they both took turns milking the seeds from him while he was tied up by his arms and legs on the bed.
'At least I'll be going to Hell where I belong... I'm sorry kid' she thought as her last breath exited her lungs.
Meanwhile, in one of the dark corners of the room, another figure observed the entire scene, untouched by the deadly miasma. The figure had a fearsome, demonic presence. His muscular build was highlighted by his exposed upper body, showcasing his powerful physique. His skin was a deep tan, a testament to rigorous training and countless battles. His hair was wild, fiery red, and spiked upwards, with a longer tuft in the center bound by a simple cord. His face was marked by intense, glowing red eyes devoid of pupils, exuding an unholy and intimidating aura, with sharp, menacing features and pronounced fangs.
He wore a simple, dark black karate gi, tattered at the shoulders, with a rope serving as a makeshift belt. Around his neck hung a string of nine prayer beads, the middle bead inscribed with the kanji for "seal" resting under his chin. His feet were shod in simple wooden geta sandals. Unholy power seemed to flow around him as he chuckled in a deep, almost demonic voice.
"A weak spirit in a weak shell. That was honestly very entertaining," he said to the figure beside him, who gazed at the now cooling corpse without a trace of sympathy.
"It wasn't enough if you ask me. Even if she had gained the right amount of weight, I would have killed her anyway," replied Aerith, stepping into the light.
The demonic figure smirked, his eyes narrowing. "You've always had a cold heart, haven't you? But this form... it's not like you."
Aerith's expression remained impassive as she reached up and touched her chest, a faint glow emanating from her fingers. "It's time to drop the pretense," she said, her voice taking on a more commanding tone. "I no longer need this guise."
The glow intensified, enveloping her entirely. As it faded, her form shifted and transformed. Her delicate features became sharper, her brown hair lengthened and turned a vibrant red, and her eyes shone with a fierce determination. Standing before him now was not Aerith, but Kushina Uzumaki.
Kushina's fiery red hair flowed like a river of flame, and her presence radiated strength and confidence. She wore traditional ninja attire, with the symbol of the Uzumaki clan prominently displayed. Her eyes, now a striking violet, locked onto the demonic figure with a blend of recognition and challenge.
The demonic figure's smirk widened into a grin. "Now this is a face I recognize. What brings you here, in disguise no less?"
Kushina's eyes softened slightly. "You know why we're here. We both have our roles to play."
The demonic figure nodded, his form beginning to shift as well. The fiery hair receded and transformed, his features becoming more fox-like, eyes remaining red but now more feral and fierce. In moments, standing before Kushina was no longer a demonic human but Kurama, the Nine-Tailed Fox, in a disguised human form.
Kurama's grin widened, revealing sharp fangs. "It's good to see you. We make quite the team, don't we?"
Kushina's expression grew solemn as she stared at the lifeless body on the ground. "Indeed. But this mission is personal for me. That woman... she abused Naruto when he was defenseless. She hurt him in ways I couldn't imagine."
Kurama's eyes softened with concern. "I know. And she paid for what she did. But what about you? This anger, this hatred... it's consuming you."
Kushina's fists clenched at her sides, her fury palpable. "No matter how many of them I hunt down, no matter how much retribution I get, this anger won't go away. It's like a fire I can't extinguish."
Kurama placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "I worry for you. This anger, it can destroy you if you let it. We need your strength, your clarity. For Naruto's sake."
Kushina took a deep breath, forcing herself to look away from the corpse. "You're right. For Naruto's sake, I have to stay focused. Let's find the rest of them and finish this."
Kurama's eyes searched hers, a mix of understanding and concern. "I had everything under control. Why did you come here?"
Kushina's eyes flashed with a mix of pain and determination. "Because it's not just about control, Kurama. It's about making sure they all suffer for what they did to my son. I couldn't protect him then, but I can make sure no one ever hurts him again."
Kurama nodded slowly, understanding the depth of her resolve. "Alright. Together then. We'll make sure they pay."
Before they turned to leave, Kushina paused and looked back at the corpse, her eyes glowing with an intense, unyielding hatred. She took a step closer, her hand outstretched towards the body. A sinister green energy began to emanate from her palm, swirling and coalescing into a dark, pulsating orb of power.
With a deep, resonant chant, the air around them grew thick with malevolent energy as the orb expanded and shot forward, piercing the corpse's chest. The woman's body convulsed violently as a ghostly, ethereal form began to rise from it, writhing in agony.
Kushina's eyes burned with a cold fury as she clenched her fist, drawing the soul closer. The ghostly form twisted and turned, trying to escape, but it was futile. With a final, forceful tug, Kushina ripped the soul from the body, absorbing it into the dark orb in her hand.
The process was brutal, the soul's screams echoing through the room as it was consumed. Kushina's expression remained unwavering, her resolve unbroken. As the last remnants of the soul vanished into the orb, she let out a slow breath, the dark energy dissipating around her.
So many souls...so little time.
(Back with Naruto)
Hiashi's gaze then shifted, becoming more personal. "Now, the favor I wished to ask of you is simple... I believe you know my daughter, do you not?"
Naruto blinked, slightly taken aback. "Hmm...you mean Hinata?"
"Yes, Hinata is my oldest daughter and the heiress to the clan."
"Yes, I know her. What about her?" Naruto asked, playing ignorant to gauge Hiashi's intentions.
"I would like you to help train her."
All the elders stiffened at this, and Naruto also caught the obvious scents of anger, surprise, and fear emanating from them.
"What? Why would you need me to train her?" Naruto asked, silently cheering in his head at this turn of events. Things were becoming easier for him.
Hiashi's gaze was steady as he began to explain. "When my daughter was three, Kumo tried to kidnap her. I was able to rescue her, but after that incident, her confidence dropped considerably. She still showed great promise, but her progress slowed. At the time, I took to giving her compliments and praise. It worked for a time and her strength grew. At least until she turned five; the year her sister was born. That year, I lost my wife and Hinata lost her mother. Her shyness and timid nature grew exponentially after that, and no matter how kind I was or how long I spent training her, she did not improve. I eventually took to being colder and harsher with her in hopes of bringing her out of it. To my disappointment, she slipped deeper until she became what you know now..."
Naruto listened intently, his skepticism evident. "I'm sorry to interrupt, Hyuga-sama, but why are you telling me this?" he asked skeptically. If this was what he was saying about Hinata, then he honestly didn't know her.
Hiashi gave a slight nod of understanding. "Please, no need for formalities. Just Hiashi will do. I must tell you, Naruto-san, that I knew your mother well. When I first heard that you were her son, I could not believe it. Your mother was actually the one who introduced me to my wife and was a great friend of the Hyuga in general. Now that I think about it, you used to act just like her." Even among the council, Hiashi couldn't help but let a small smile slip as the memories flooded his mind.
"Really...you really knew my mother?" asked a skeptical Naruto.
"Yes, she was a very strong woman and was able to do the most amazing things. She taught my wife kenjutsu as well as medical jutsu, and hearing from my daughter about the sword you used against that Chunin, you're following her footsteps, are you not?" Hiashi asked, gaining a nod from Naruto.
"I don't know what I can do to help, but I guess since I'll be here anyway I could try."
With a small smirk, Hiashi said, "Don't think we ask this of you without offering something in return."
Naruto's curiosity was piqued. "Really...what would that be, Hiashi-san?"
Hiashi's smirk widened slightly. "How would you like to learn Gentle Fist?"
This statement silenced the whole room. Naruto noticed the tenseness of the elders and the various scents of emotion in the air.
What do you think, Sis? he asked telepathically.
The elders have a mix of shock, anger, and confusion. Hiashi, on the other hand, seems totally sincere in his wishes. He does seem to want something else out of this, but I can't tell what he's planning. He doesn't have any malicious intent about it. But I know you, and you have a bigger objective than this, Yugito replied.
To the elders and Hiashi, Naruto seemed deep in concentration. He looked towards his sister, who nodded, then closed his eyes until he locked eyes with Hiashi. This caused the elders to flinch noticeably.
"Your offer of training is much appreciated, but I must ask why would the most powerful clan wish to teach their style to an outsider? Not only that, but the one that by all means could be seen as a threat to them?"
Hiashi responded thoughtfully, "To explain, you must first understand that while our style is powerful, it is our Kekkai Genkai that makes it the power that it is. Because of your lack of it, you could never master Jyuuken to the level that we can. The basic forms and attacks you may learn easily enough, as well as the intermediate, but any of our secret jutsu need the Byakugan to be performed correctly. I myself asked your mother the same question, though she declined, sticking with her clan taijutsu. I offer you this not only because of my wish for you to help my daughter, but to repay a debt to Kushina as well."
Naruto considered this carefully. "Your generosity holds no boundaries, Hiashi-san, and I am honored by your offer. However, I must respectfully decline the tutelage of Gentle Fist as I have followed in my mother's taijutsu and I am already sufficient in Ansatsuken, as well as many other arts."
Hiashi nodded, seemingly understanding. "I see. Perhaps you wouldn't mind giving me a demonstration before dinner. If you two would give me a second, I will be joining you soon."
As they left the room, the blonds were guided to the practice field by a guard stationed outside the door. The room's atmosphere remained tense, filled with the lingering presence of the Hyuga elders and their unspoken thoughts.
Elder 3 turned to Hiashi, his voice low and questioning. "Hiashi-sama, what are you thinking offering our teachings to an outsider?"
Hiashi's gaze was steady and thoughtful. "I offer them because to gain, you must give. You all sensed the power in that boy when he got back up to leave. Just the blood of his parents ensures great power; but with the demons added to it, he could become a Kami among men."
Elder 1 shook his head, concern evident in his voice. "That is why we don't need to add to it by teaching him our style. Even if he can only learn the forms and fighting style in general, it still will greatly add to his growing strength."
Hiashi's voice was resolute. "That is exactly why I offered it. I would rather have that boy look upon this clan as the ones who trained and accepted him rather than the ones who allowed their members to beat him and throw him into a dumpster. Or would you rather him see us as enemies when he reaches his peak of power?"
The entire room fell silent, the weight of Hiashi's words sinking in. After a long pause, Hiashi spoke again, his tone firm. "The point is, he will grow stronger with or without our help. If my hunch is correct, we can bring him under our control with kindness and other things. I doubt we could ever control him, but we could easily manipulate him for our means by earning his trust and friendship. This decision is final."
The elders exchanged uneasy glances before filing out of the room with heavy minds, leaving Hiashi alone with his thoughts. As the door closed behind the last elder, Hiashi sighed deeply.
"Kushina-chan, I hope you can forgive me for using your son like this. The elders and my clan are out of my control now. Everything you, my wife, and I planned has fallen apart, and without the power of your son behind me, there is no way to finally fulfill our plans. I put all my hope in him. My daughter, my clan's future, and the fruition of all our dreams... are all up to him. I just hope I can win his trust. The power and friendship of a Jinchuuriki is my only hope."
With a solemn expression, Hiashi reached into his robes and pulled out a cherished photograph. It showed a younger Minato, Kushina, himself, and Hinata's mother, Hitome, standing in a beautiful field of flowers. It was taken on the day of his wedding, officiated by the Third Hokage, Sarutobi.
Hiashi gazed at the picture, a mix of nostalgia and determination in his eyes. He gently traced his fingers over the smiling faces of his friends and loved ones, silently vowing to do whatever it took to protect his clan and fulfill the dreams they had once shared.
Naruto and Yugito stood in the practice field, taking in the sight of numerous Hyuga clansmen training diligently in separate areas. The compound was a hive of activity, with each member focusing intently on their drills and techniques. Naruto's keen eyes scanned the field, observing the impressive coordination and discipline displayed by the Hyuga clan.
In one corner, Neji was sparring with an older Jonin, their movements fluid and precise. To Naruto's trained eyes, it was evident that Neji was an exceptional fighter, evenly matched with his opponent. On the sidelines, Tenten watched the sparring session, her eyes following every move with a mixture of admiration and analytical interest.
As Neji noticed Naruto's presence, his eyes widened in shock. For a brief moment, his focus wavered. His opponent seized the opportunity, delivering a swift and precise strike that sent Neji stumbling back. Regaining his balance, Neji's expression shifted to one of clear animosity, though he quickly resumed his stance. Naruto, however, paid him no mind, maintaining his composure and focusing on the larger picture. Yugito stood beside him, equally composed and observant.
Despite the distance, the tension between Naruto and Neji was palpable. Neither acknowledged the other, their attention seemingly fixed on their respective tasks. The atmosphere was charged with a silent understanding of the underlying conflicts and histories that lay between them. Naruto remembered their earlier confrontation when Neji had tried to bully Hinata, and his intervention had not been well received by Neji.
Tenten, observing from the sidelines, noticed Naruto and Yugito. Her eyes widened in surprise, and then, to Naruto's confusion, a blush crept up her cheeks as she checked out Naruto's appearance. However, a flash of pain also crossed her features, going unnoticed by everyone except for Yugito.
Naruto, catching Tenten's gaze, looked puzzled. Yugito sighed inwardly. Despite how intelligent and accomplished Naruto was, he remained clueless when it came to understanding women's emotions—a fault not entirely his own, given his upbringing.
The sudden entrance of Hiashi into the area caused all movement to grind to a halt. The entire field fell silent as the clan head made his way toward Naruto and Yugito. The clansmen turned to look at the newcomers, their eyes widening in surprise at the sight of the fancy-dressed siblings.
Hiashi's presence commanded respect, and the immediate cessation of activity was a testament to the authority he held within the clan. He approached Naruto and Yugito with a calm and composed demeanor, his gaze acknowledging the attention they were drawing from the rest of the clan.
"Uzumaki-sans," Hiashi greeted, his tone formal yet warm. "I hope the wait has not been too long. I see you have taken an interest in our training."
Naruto nodded respectfully. "Not at all, Hiashi-san. Your clan's dedication to their training is impressive."
Hiashi's eyes briefly scanned the field, noting the clansmen's reactions. "Our clan values discipline and mastery of our techniques. It is the foundation of our strength."
Neji, who had stopped his sparring session, watched the exchange from a distance, his expression unreadable. Tenten glanced between Neji and Naruto, sensing the underlying tension and still feeling a bit flustered by Naruto's presence.
Hiashi addressed the gathered clansmen, his voice carrying authority. "Resume your training. We will continue our discussions here."
The clansmen quickly returned to their activities, though their curiosity about Naruto and Yugito remained evident. Hiashi led the siblings to a quieter area of the field, away from the main training zones.
"I appreciate your patience, Naruto, Yugito," Hiashi said, his tone sincere. "I wanted to speak to you in a more private setting, away from the formality of the council chamber."
Naruto inclined his head slightly. "Of course, Hiashi-san. We understand."
Hiashi took a deep breath, his gaze thoughtful. "As you may have gathered, the elders and I have differing views on certain matters. However, I believe that mutual understanding and cooperation can lead to great things for both our clans."
Yugito nodded, her eyes steady. "We appreciate your candor, Hiashi-san."
Hiashi gave a small smile. "I have a request to make of you, Naruto. As we discussed earlier, I would like you to help train my daughter, Hinata. I believe your influence could help her in ways we have not been able to achieve."
Naruto considered this, then nodded. "I'll do my best, Hiashi-san."
Hiashi's eyes gleamed with satisfaction. "Excellent. Before we proceed to dinner, I would like to see a demonstration of your taijutsu skills. It would be beneficial for the clan to understand the abilities of those who will be working closely with us."
Neji, overhearing this, stepped forward eagerly. "Hiashi-sama, if I may, I would be honored to be Naruto's opponent for this demonstration."
Hiashi raised an eyebrow but nodded. "Very well, Neji. If Naruto agrees."
Naruto glanced at Neji, sensing the animosity behind his composed exterior. "Sure, why not. It could be interesting."
"Now Naruto-San," Hiashi started, "I would like to test your reflexes, speed, and strength. For this you will spar against an experienced user of our style. This spar will be Taijutsu only. No weapons, chakra usage, or Kekkai Genkai. This is my nephew, Neji. He has been a genin for almost a year now, and will be your sparing partner for this match."
The clansmen gathered around, curiosity and anticipation clear in their expressions. Neji's eyes narrowed slightly, a smirk tugging at his lips. In his mind, this was his chance to put the "commoner" in his place, to show Hiashi and the Hyuga clan that Naruto was not good enough to sit at their table.
'I do not see why this commoner is so special to be among us. Fate has already determined my victory here. This mongrel won't even touch me.'
As the demonstration between Naruto and Neji was about to begin on the practice field, the scene shifted to another part of the Hyuga compound. The atmosphere here was quieter, more serene, with the elegance of traditional architecture and the gentle rustling of leaves in the evening breeze.
A young girl, around twelve years old, hurried through the corridors, her steps quick and purposeful. She wore an expensive kimono, its intricate patterns and rich fabric signifying her status within the Hyuga clan. Her long, dark hair flowed behind her as she moved with a combination of excitement and urgency.
This was Hanabi, Hinata's younger sister. She had important news to share and couldn't wait to tell her older sister. As she approached Hinata's room, she slowed her pace, a smile playing on her lips. She knocked softly on the door, but in her eagerness, she didn't wait for a response and pushed it open gently.
"Onee-chan! I have something to tell you—" Hanabi began, but her words faltered, and her eyes widened in shock.
Standing in front of a large mirror, Hinata radiates elegance and grace in her stunning attire. She wears a soft lavender kimono characterized by its long, flowing sleeves, which signify her status as an esteemed member of her clan. The fabric is adorned with delicate silver and white floral patterns, interwoven with subtle hints of gold, creating a shimmering effect that enhances her ethereal presence. The obi is a deep purple, tied in a large, elaborate bow at the back, accentuating her voluptuous figure and adding a touch of opulence to her outfit.
Her hair is styled in an intricate updo, adorned with elegant hairpins featuring small pearls and amethyst gemstones, reflecting her refined taste and adding to her regal aura. Hinata's accessories include a pair of delicate, silver earrings shaped like blooming flowers and a simple yet elegant necklace that rests gracefully on her collarbone. Her footwear consists of traditional zori sandals with silk straps matching the color of her obi, completing her sophisticated look.
In Hanabi's eyes, Hinata at that moment was the epitome of power and beauty. A queen rather than an heiress.
Hinata turned to face her sister, a gentle smile on her lips. "Hanabi-chan, what is it?" she asked softly, noticing the surprised look on her sister's face.
Hanabi blinked, snapping out of her daze. "Onee-chan, you look... amazing," she said, her voice filled with awe. "I almost didn't recognize you."
A faint blush spread across Hinata's cheeks. "Thank you, Hanabi-chan. I wanted to look my best for tonight. Now what was it that you needed?"
"Oh! Onee-chan! Neji-niisan is fighting some dressed up blond!" Hanabi exclaimed breathlessly, her eyes wide with excitement.
Before she could say more, Hinata's eyes widened in recognition and alarm. "Naruto-kun," she whispered. Without another word, she dashed out of the room in a blur, leaving Hanabi standing there, stunned.
The practice field buzzed with anticipation as Naruto and Neji stood ready to demonstrate their taijutsu skills. The gathered Hyuga clansmen watched intently, their eyes shifting between the two combatants. Naruto, sensing the focus on him, began to suppress his chakra, a deliberate and controlled action that did not go unnoticed by those around him.
Hiashi, standing nearby, observed the change with keen interest. "Naruto, why are you suppressing your chakra?" he asked, his voice calm but curious. "You don't have to hold yourself back. I believe Neji would be a suitable opponent to showcase your full abilities."
Naruto shook his head, his expression serious. "My chakra is supercharged, Hiashi-san. If I were to unleash it at full capacity, I might accidentally harm, or even kill, my opponent and any bystanders."
A murmur spread through the spectators. Some of the Hyuga clansmen were curious about his statement, their eyes filled with intrigue. Others, however, interpreted his words as arrogance, their expressions showing skepticism and annoyance.
Neji's eyes narrowed, a smirk playing on his lips. "So, you think suppressing your chakra will give me a fair chance? How considerate of you," he said, his tone dripping with sarcasm.
Naruto glanced at Neji, his gaze steady and unwavering. "It's not about giving you a fair chance, Neji. It's about ensuring no one gets hurt unnecessarily."
Neji's eyes narrowed in irritation at Naruto's mocking tone. The Hyuga prodigy's belief in fate was absolute, and Naruto's words were striking a nerve. "Chakra or not, you will still lose today. Fate has declared me the winner," Neji declared, his voice filled with conviction.
While the other Hyuga clan members were still processing the fact that Naruto could perform Jounin-level suppression and enhancement techniques with ease, Naruto responded with a calm, "Really now?" Naruto replied while taking off his jacket and tossing it to Yugito (who caught it and let it drape over his shoulder) and started to roll up his dress shirt sleeves (AN: Think of Kazuya Mishima from Tekken 7).
Assuming an unfamiliar stance, Naruto continued, "If fate has been decided, I guess then there is no point in trying, is there?"
Neji snorted, "I see that you can already see the truth in my words. You can save yourself the humiliation by choosing to back down...but your stance says otherwise."
All the Hyuga were aware of Neji's unique views on fate and life, but most avoided the topic to prevent igniting his temper. Despite being only a Genin, Neji was a rare prodigy who could defeat most Hyuga Chunin and even some Jounin in matches. Hiashi had chosen Neji to test Naruto's limits, but he also wished to see if Naruto held the same power for miracles as his mother, a power thought lost when she died.
After hearing Neji's declaration, all Naruto could do was snort and say, "If fate has decided that I will lose today, then you just contradicted yourself by saying I could choose to back down..."
Neji, caught off-guard by this, was momentarily thrown off-balance. One moment, he had this boy under the Hyuga glare, seemingly ready to run away. Now, the very same boy was talking back as if he knew anything about the fate of the world. "What would a fool like you know?" Neji snapped.
"You just said fate has decided that I will lose today. Fate is a straight line, a predetermined course for our lives, and nothing you do can change that, right?"
"Correct..." Neji replied, his voice betraying a slight shake.
"Then, by saying that I could choose to back out of this fight, you have just said that I can change my fate by my own choice," Naruto pointed out flatly.
After composing himself, Neji retorted, "Either by surrender or by my hand, you will lose today; that is the indestructible path of fate." The veins around his eyes bulged with anger. 'How dare this peasant lecture me about fate! He knows nothing of life and is even receiving special treatment from the main house. He may be fated to that, but he will still fall before me...'
"Not that I do not absolutely love this conversation on the philosophy of fate, but the fact is if we never start the match, it's impossible for me to lose. So if you wish to prove this fate of yours, why don't we begin because I'm starting to get hungry," Naruto said in a mocking tone, releasing his chakra and flaring about a tenth of it.
The air around Naruto seemed to hum with power, a testament to the chakra he was holding back. Neji's eyes widened slightly, and the other Hyuga members exchanged glances, their skepticism turning to a mix of curiosity and concern.
Hiashi, standing on the sidelines, observed the exchange with interest. He raised a hand, signaling the beginning of the match. "Begin," he commanded.
With Hiashi's signal, the sparring match commenced. Neji wasted no time, launching a rapid series of strikes at Naruto, each blow aimed with precision and power. However, Naruto moved with fluid grace, effortlessly dodging Neji's attacks. His movements were so swift and controlled that he appeared to be barely exerting himself.
The Hyuga spectators watched in stunned silence as Naruto continued to evade Neji's strikes. Every time Neji thought he had Naruto cornered, the blond would slip past his defenses with a speed and agility that defied belief.
Neji's frustration grew with each missed strike. His Byakugan was fully activated, veins bulging around his eyes as he tried to predict Naruto's movements. Yet, no matter how hard he tried, Naruto remained just out of reach. As the fight continued, Neji's frustration grew. He began to push harder, increasing the speed and intensity of his attacks. Yet, each time he thought he had Naruto cornered, the blond would dodge, his movements just a fraction of a second faster.
Neji's eyes narrowed as he realized what was happening. 'He's testing me,' he thought angrily. 'He's not even taking me seriously!'
This realization enraged Neji, and he began to strike with lethal intent. His blows were aimed to incapacitate or even kill, but Naruto continued to dodge with ease, his expression calm and composed.
Hiashi noticed his nephew's aggression and slightly cringed at the hatred and killer intent that was flaring off him. He had no doubt in his mind that Neji was trying to kill Minato's son, and his inability to even touch Naruto only fueled the growing hatred he had for the blond. Hiashi was about to stop the match when he felt a hand on his arm. He looked over to see Yugito looking at him with a small smile.
"Do not fear for his safety, Hiashi-sama. Though you say Neji is a prodigy, so is my little brother. Just be patient and watch... your style has limited effects on Naruto. Just activate your Byakugan and take a look."
Hiashi nodded, activating his bloodline, and was shocked by what he saw. Naruto's chakra network was vast and seemed to be in constant, dynamic flux, resisting Neji's strikes with an almost instinctive precision. The blond was controlling his chakra flow with an expertise that belied his age, minimizing the impact of Neji's looked back at Yugito but mistakenly did not deactivate his Byakugan, and what he saw shocked him even further. He switched it off to view a grinning Yugito.
"So... you too are a container..." Hiashi breathed out.
"Correct, and that is why I know he can't beat him, let alone kill him," she finished, sensing a familiar chakra signature running up behind them. She turned her head to see Hinata followed by a little girl that looked no older than twelve or. She assumed that was her little sister.
"Wow, they are incredible," the little Hyuga girl said, activating her Byakugan and watching the match while Hinata surprisingly glared at her father.
"Father... why is Naruto-kun fighting Neji-nii-san?" she asked in a tone laced with irritation.
Hiashi was slightly taken aback by her tone, but over the past few days, he had come to realize that the shy, timid, stuttering machine known as Hinata had died when Naruto came back to the village. She was replaced by this new version of herself that reminded him so much of her mother it scared him... especially when she used to speak to him in that tone.
"Hinata," Hiashi began, regaining his composure, "this is merely a spar to test Naruto's abilities. Neji volunteered to be his opponent."
Hinata's glare did not waver. "And you thought it appropriate to let Neji-nii-san, with all his anger and hatred, fight Naruto-kun?"Hiashi hesitated, knowing his daughter had a point.
"Neji is a skilled fighter, and I wanted to see how Naruto would handle himself against one of our best."
Hinata's eyes softened slightly as she looked at Naruto, who continued to dodge Neji's increasingly desperate and aggressive attacks. "Naruto-kun is strong," she said softly, "but Neji-nii-san's anger will blind him. This is not a fair test."
Yugito stepped forward, placing a reassuring hand on Hinata's shoulder. "Don't worry, Hinata. Naruto can handle himself. He's proving more than capable against Neji."
Hinata sighed, her eyes never leaving Naruto. "I just don't want anyone to get hurt."
Hiashi, feeling a twinge of guilt, nodded. "If things get out of hand, I will stop the match."
As the match continued, Neji lunged with a palm strike aimed at Naruto's heart, a move intended to end the match decisively along with his life. But Naruto sidestepped, grabbing Neji's wrist and using his momentum to flip him over, sending him crashing to the ground.
"Is that all you've got?" Naruto asked, his tone calm and unbothered.
Neji scrambled to his feet, his eyes blazing with anger. "You dare mock me?" he spat, his voice shaking with rage.
"I'm not mocking you," Naruto replied evenly. "I'm just not interested in playing your game of fate. If you want to win, you'll have to do better than that. Right now, you're just a spoiled brat who's too blind to see his own limits."
Neji's face contorted with fury. "You know nothing about my limits! About my suffering!"
Naruto snorted. "I've heard enough of your whining. You think you're special because you were born into a cage? Newsflash, Neji: we've all got our chains. The difference is, I'm not using mine as an excuse to act like a jerk."
Neji's eyes widened in shock, and for a moment, he was speechless. The blunt truth of Naruto's words cut deeper than any physical strike.
Neji's eyes blazed with fury at Naruto's words. Without a second thought, he lunged again, his intent unmistakably lethal. This time, his movements were wild and aggressive, fueled by rage rather than precision.
Naruto's eyes narrowed, and he shifted his stance, bracing himself. As Neji closed the distance, Naruto moved with lightning speed. He sidestepped Neji's initial strike, grabbing his outstretched arm and twisting it behind his back in a fluid motion.
With his other hand, Naruto applied pressure to the back of Neji's neck, forcing him down while maintaining control over his arm. Neji's momentum was used against him, and he found himself immobilized, his face pressed against the ground and his arm twisted at an awkward angle, preventing him from moving.
Naruto leaned in close to Neji's ear. "Calm down," he said in a low, firm voice. "Or I will return the intent with which you attacked me. You don't want to see what happens when I do that."
Neji struggled for a moment, but the pain and the firm hold forced him to still. Naruto's grip was unyielding, and Neji could feel the sheer strength and control behind it.
The spectators watched in stunned silence, the air thick with tension. Hiashi's eyes widened in surprise at the ease with which Naruto had subdued Neji, a testament to his skill and training.
After a tense moment, Naruto slowly released Neji, allowing him to stand. Neji staggered to his feet, his eyes burning with humiliation and frustration, but he did not attack again.
"Enough," Hiashi said, his voice commanding. "This match is truly over. Let us proceed to dinner."
Neji shot one last glare at Naruto before turning away, clearly struggling to contain his emotions. Naruto, on the other hand, remained calm, his eyes scanning the crowd before settling on Hiashi.
As the crowd began to disperse and the tension started to ease, Tenten stepped forward, her eyes blazing with anger. She looked directly at Naruto, her voice trembling with emotion. "You didn't have to embarrass Neji like that."
Naruto met her gaze calmly, almost indifferently. "Neji did it to himself," he replied. "He entered that spar with the intent to do me harm. He let his emotions guide him, and they were exposed."
Tenten's hostility didn't wane. "You don't know Neji," she retorted, her voice rising. "You don't know what he's been through. He's had a difficult life, and it's not fair for you to judge him like this."
Naruto remained composed. "I judge Neji off his actions," he said evenly. "He tried to bully Hinata in front of me, and then just spent the last ten minutes trying to kill me. Everyone saw it. All because I wounded his fragile ego."
Tenten's expression wavered, and for a moment, it looked like she was about to cry. "You think you know everything, but you don't," she said, her voice breaking. "Neji's been through more than you can imagine."
Naruto's voice remained calm, though there was a slight edge to his words. "Maybe he has, but at least he has family. At least he doesn't have to worry about being stabbed in the back just because he was an orphan. I feel no sympathy for someone who has people who care about him, yet chooses to push them away and act like a victim."
Tenten's eyes filled with tears, and she looked like she was about to break down. "You don't understand," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "You don't know what it's like for him."
Naruto's expression softened slightly, but his tone remained steady. "No, I don't. But I know what it's like to be alone, to be hated for something you can't control. And I know that using your pain as an excuse to hurt others is wrong."
Tenten seemed to struggle with his words, the conflict clear in her eyes. She whispered, so low that only Naruto could hear, "Is that why you didn't tell me you were alive?"
The words hit Naruto like a physical blow, but he maintained his composure. "Tenten," he started, his voice still calm, "I..."
She shook her head, cutting him off. "Forget it," she whispered, her voice choked with emotion. "Just... forget it."
With that, she turned and ran away, not after Neji, but out of the compound entirely.
Naruto watched her leave, a pang of guilt settling in his chest. He hadn't intended to hurt her feelings, but he couldn't allow himself to show weakness now. Yugito placed a hand on Naruto's shoulder, giving him a knowing look. Telepathically, she reached out to him.
Yugito: "Naruto, we need to talk about that girl."
Naruto: "I know, Nee-chan. I didn't mean to hurt her, but she didn't need to come at me like that."
Yugito: "Listen, little brother. You've been through a lot, and your walls are high for a reason. But Tenten's reaction wasn't just about the spar. There's more to it."
Naruto: "What do you mean?"
Yugito: "Tenten was hurt deeply by your disappearance. She feels like you abandoned her. When she whispered about you not telling her you were alive, it wasn't just about this moment. It's about all the moments you missed in her life."
Naruto clenched his fists, trying to process his sister's words. "So what should I do? I can't change the past."
Yugito: "No, but you can fix the present and future. You need to talk to her. Apologize. Explain your side. You've been so focused on your mission and your past hurts that you've neglected the feelings of those who care about you, even before we came here."
Naruto: "I didn't realize it affected her that much."
Yugito: "People care about you more than you know. Tenten's reaction was a mix of anger, hurt, and confusion. You need to clear the air. Fix it, Naruto. Don't let another bond break because of misunderstandings."
Naruto sighed, his shoulders dropping. He knew his sister was right. The guilt gnawed at him, and he realized he had to make things right.
Naruto: "Alright, Nee-chan. I'll talk to her. I'll make it right."
Yugito smiled softly, squeezing his shoulder. "Good. You're growing, Naruto. It's not just about strength in battle but strength in your bonds. Now, let's go your princess is coming."
Naruto's attention was drawn to a figure approaching from across the training field. His breath caught in his throat as he saw Hinata, dressed in an elegant kimono, making her way toward them. The setting sun cast a warm glow around her, highlighting the intricate designs on her attire and the grace with which she moved.
Naruto's eyes widened, and for a moment, he was completely mesmerized. Hinata looked stunning, her beauty enhanced by the traditional attire. It was as if time had slowed down, and he couldn't tear his gaze away.
Yugito, noticing Naruto's sudden distraction, followed his line of sight and saw Hinata. She smirked knowingly and telepathically nudged him. "Snap out of it, little brother. She's coming over."
Naruto: "She's... wow. She looks amazing."
As Hinata approached, she noticed Naruto's stunned expression and the way his eyes were glued to her. Gathering her courage, she decided to be a bit bold. She added a subtle sway to her hips with each step, her movements graceful and confident. This action had Naruto completely captivated, his gaze following her every move, drinking in her every action.
Yugito, sensing the shift in the atmosphere, couldn't help but find the situation highly amusing. She watched with a wide grin as her usually composed brother became utterly mesmerized by Hinata's bold display.
Hinata's confidence grew with each step, and when she finally reached Naruto and Yugito, she offered a polite bow to Yugito before turning her attention to Naruto, her cheeks tinged with a soft blush but her eyes sparkling with determination.
"Naruto-kun, I can't leave you anywhere without you getting into a fight, can I?" she said with a gentle smile, her eyes twinkling with amusement.
Naruto blinked, taken aback for a moment before breaking into a wide, sheepish grin. "Ah, well, you know me, Hinata! Trouble just seems to follow me wherever I go!" he replied, rubbing the back of his head in a familiar, endearing gesture.
Hinata's smile grew wider at his response, and she let out a soft giggle. "I suppose that's true. But it's good to see that you're alright."
Naruto puffed out his chest slightly, a playful glint in his eyes. "Of course! I can handle anything that comes my way. Especially with friends like you around to watch my back."
Yugito observed the exchange, amused by the shift in her brother's demeanor. Despite the serious nature of their surroundings, Naruto's cheerful personality shone through, bringing a sense of warmth and familiarity.
Hinata's cheeks turned a light shade of pink, but she maintained her composure. "Well, just try to stay out of trouble for the rest of the evening, okay?"
Naruto gave her a mock salute. "You got it, Hinata!"
Yugito interjected with a chuckle. "I'll make sure he behaves, Hinata."
The trio continued walking away from the practice field, where the Hyuga clan members had gathered. Naruto and Hinata's easy banter lightened the atmosphere, drawing curious glances from those around them.
As they approached Hiashi and the other elders, Hinata leaned closer to Naruto, her voice barely above a whisper. "If you're good, maybe I'll treat you to dessert later."
Naruto grasped the implication behind Hinata's words, feeling a sudden jolt of surprise and a warm flush creeping up his neck. Her boldness both stunned and slightly embarrassed him, sparking a flicker of excitement that he quickly stifled. Despite the momentary fluster, he swiftly regained his composure, mindful of the presence of Hinata's family nearby. Hinata, noticing his reaction, offered a small, knowing smile before they continued on, mindful of the familial setting around them.
Hiashi observed the interaction between Naruto and Hinata with a keen, discerning eye. He had always prided himself on his ability to read people, a skill that had served him well as the head of the Hyuga clan. Even without hearing the conversation, his proficiency in reading lips allowed him to follow the exchange between his daughter and Naruto.
As he watched, a sobering realization settled over him: Hinata was no longer the shy, timid girl who struggled to meet his expectations. She had grown into a confident young woman, bold enough to engage Naruto with an ease that surprised him. Hiashi had been unaware of the depth of her feelings for Naruto, and now, seeing them interact, he couldn't help but feel a sense of pride mixed with an unfamiliar yet pleasant warmth.
The realization brought a rare grin to Hiashi's face, an expression so uncommon that it startled his younger daughter, Hanabi, who was standing nearby. She stared at him, wide-eyed, as if she had just witnessed something extraordinary. Indeed, the sight of Hiashi smiling was a rare event, and those around him noticed it with a mixture of surprise and curiosity.
For Hiashi, this moment was a revelation. He had always been stern with Hinata, believing that strictness was necessary to mold her into a strong leader for the clan. Yet, seeing her now, standing confidently beside Naruto, he understood that she had found her own path to strength. This realization brought a wave of unexpected joy and hope.
"If things work out the way I hope," Hiashi mused silently, "then our family might just thrive for generations to come."
His mind drifted to the implications of a union between Hinata and Naruto. Naruto, with his indomitable spirit and potential, combined with Hinata's newfound strength, could bring about a powerful alliance. The thought of their potential descendants carrying both the Uzumaki and Hyuga legacies filled him with optimism.
As he continued to watch, Hiashi noticed the subtle, yet significant changes in Hinata's demeanor. She had always been kind and gentle, but now there was a new fire in her eyes, a determination that he hadn't seen before. This transformation had been spurred, in part, by Naruto's return and the influence he had on her.
Hiashi's smile widened slightly, causing more astonished looks from the surrounding Hyuga members. His rare display of emotion didn't go unnoticed, and whispers began to circulate among the clansmen. Hanabi, still in shock, tugged at his sleeve.
"Father, are you alright?" she asked hesitantly, her voice barely above a whisper.
Hiashi looked down at her, his smile softening into a gentle expression that further bewildered her. "Yes, Hanabi. I am quite alright. In fact, I feel better than I have in a long time."
He turned his gaze back to Hinata and Naruto. The future he had always been so concerned about suddenly seemed much brighter. With Naruto's strength and Hinata's determination, the Hyuga clan could not only survive but flourish. It was a comforting and hopeful thought, one that he hadn't dared entertain until now.
As Hinata and Naruto continued their conversation, Hiashi couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude. Gratitude for Naruto, who had unknowingly brought about this change in Hinata, and gratitude for the possibility of a future where his family and clan could stand strong and the first time in many years, Hiashi allowed himself to fully embrace this hope, knowing that with Naruto and Hinata leading the way, the future of the Hyuga clan was in capable hands.
Unbeknownst to everyone, Jiraiya was observing the scene from a concealed vantage point on the wall. As he watched Naruto interact with the Hyuga clan, he was overcome with emotion. Seeing his godson, now almost grown, filled him with a mixture of joy and sorrow. Joy that Naruto was alive and seemingly thriving, and sorrow for the years lost, years that he could have been there for him. He blamed Sarutobi for his absence in Naruto's life, feeling a deep resentment for the deception that had kept them apart.
From his hidden spot, Jiraiya observed Naruto with a critical yet affectionate eye. Naruto had grown into a strong, confident young man, one who carried himself with a presence that reminded Jiraiya so much of Minato. His heart swelled with pride, and he could see both Minato's and Kushina's influence in the way Naruto moved and interacted with those around him.
When Naruto's eyes fell on Hinata, Jiraiya saw a look of surprise and admiration that made him chuckle softly. Even from a distance, he could read the emotions playing across Naruto's face. He saw the way Naruto's gaze lingered on Hinata's elegant form and the slight blush that crept up his cheeks. It was clear to Jiraiya that his godson was smitten, even if Naruto himself might not fully realize it yet.
As Hinata approached Naruto, adding a subtle sway to her hips, Jiraiya watched with amusement. Yugito's enjoyment of the situation was evident, and Jiraiya couldn't help but share her amusement. When Hinata made her bold remark, whispering something in Naruto's ear that caused a light growl and a visible reaction from him, Jiraiya's curiosity piqued even further and the super pervert could only imagine the possibilities. The Hyuga girl had a figure that could almost rival Tsunade.
However, Jiraiya's amusement was tinged with a deep sense of sadness. He had missed so much of Naruto's life, missed seeing him grow from a baby into the young man he was now. He felt a pang of guilt and anger towards Sarutobi for keeping this truth from him for so long. Naruto had grown up without him, facing challenges and hardships alone.
Jiraiya's emotions began to settle, giving way to his sharp shinobi instincts. His eyes narrowed as he observed the unfamiliar girl standing beside Naruto. She had a striking resemblance to him, enough to raise questions. Jiraiya knew for a fact that Minato and Kushina did not have another child, yet this girl seemed connected to Naruto in a way he couldn't ignore.
His gaze locked onto Yugito, scrutinizing her every movement and expression. Her confident demeanor and the way she interacted with Naruto suggested a close relationship, but it also raised suspicions. Jiraiya's protective instincts flared; he couldn't allow any potential threat near his grandson, especially not someone he couldn't identify.
He noted how Yugito subtly guided the interactions, her presence calming Naruto and seemingly reassuring Hiashi. She carried herself with a poise and confidence that spoke of experience and training, far beyond that of an ordinary shinobi. Jiraiya's mind raced through possibilities. Could she be a plant from another village? A spy sent to gather information on Naruto?
The thought unsettled him. He couldn't let harm come to Naruto, not after everything the boy had endured. Jiraiya resolved to find out everything he could about Yugito. He would dig into her past, her connections, and her motives. If she posed any threat to Naruto, he would eliminate it swiftly and without hesitation. Jiraiya's resolve was firm. He would protect Naruto with everything he had, even if it meant confronting old friends or uncovering uncomfortable truths. His grandson's safety was paramount, and nothing would stand in his way.
Unbeknownst to Jiraiya, he was not the only one observing the scene with keen interest. From a perch atop a nearby light post, a red-headed woman stood, her eyes fixed on Jiraiya's hidden position. Her expression was unreadable, her gaze unwavering as she watched the legendary Sannin grapple with his emotions and instincts.
Jiraiya's instincts, honed by years of espionage and combat, flared suddenly. He felt the prickle of being watched, a sensation as familiar to him as breathing. His eyes darted around, scanning the surroundings with the precision of a seasoned shinobi. They finally landed on the light post where the woman had been standing.
But she was gone.
Jiraiya frowned, his senses on high alert. He could have sworn he felt a presence. His eyes swept the area again, but there was nothing out of the ordinary. No signs of movement, no chakra signatures out of place. Just the usual hustle and bustle of the Hyuga compound, now interspersed with whispers and curious glances at Naruto and Hinata.
From her concealed vantage point, Kushina watched Jiraiya with an intensity that belied her calm exterior. She knew all too well the depth of Jiraiya's ignorance regarding Naruto's survival. It was a bitter pill to swallow, knowing that Jiraiya, who had mourned Minato and her for so long, had no idea that their son had lived. But for now, she would spare him her wrath.
The time would come when Jiraiya would have to choose—between the village that had betrayed Naruto and the boy who was their hope. Kushina's eyes narrowed slightly as she watched the Sannin. If Jiraiya chose wrong, if he prioritized Konoha over her son, she would not hesitate to kill him. It was a resolve born from years of hardship and the fierce love she held for Naruto.
As the day continued, the tension in the Hyuga compound slowly ebbed away, but for those in the know, the real game was just beginning. Jiraiya, Kushina, Yugito, and Naruto were all pieces on a chessboard, their moves carefully watched and anticipated. The future and the fate of many would depend on the choices they made in the coming days.