hi! English isn't my first language. thought in italic , dialogue in " ", POV alterning and Naruto's still not mine.
Chapter 22
The figure stood at the edge of one of the gates of the Forest of Death, visible to all the eyes of the spectators. The stands were silent as if everyone collectively knew that the she wasn't done.
The set of her tense shoulders conveyed the tension in her body, still ready for battle. Her eyes were still gleaming with a hardness that chilled those who weren't accustomed to seeing the famous Byakugan.
Sasuke watched as she straightened and held her chin up. Hinata took slow measured steps.
The naginata that was used as a tool to take her life was still grasped in her hand. The blade left a trail in the dirt behind as it was dragged. Although she could've used it as support, for it was obvious she was exhausted, her pride wouldn't allow her to.
Sasuke could only guess that she wanted to come out of this battle standing. Bruised and battered but still standing.
He could see some of these bruises marring her flesh. Small cuts all over her arms and legs. The deep gash on her shoulder was starting to soak the fabric of the Obi she tied. Her clothes had multiple tears and quite a few burns.
She looked a right mess.
Her braid was loose. Soot adorned the strand of her hair giving an allusion of a crown made of ash. The blood of her enemies painting her face crimson, was a bewitching contrast against her fair porcelain skin.
He had never wanted her more.
She walked holding her head high, every inch the Hyuuga princess that she was.
No, not a Hyuuga princess. His mind whispered.
A future Uchiha queen.
Powerful, fearless and unlike him merciful.
He often wondered if her lips tasted like innocence and goodness, but now he wondered if she'll taste like wrath and vengeance too. If he glided his tongue against hers will it match the fire and destruction within him or will the aftertaste of her sweetness still overwhelm him in the end?
Either way he was finding out soon.
His dark gaze followed her figure walk past the Konoha section of the stand. She didn't spare anyone a glance, for her diamond orbs were fixed on one section and one section alone: The one where the Cloud clan representatives and high-level officers sat.
She stopped in front of it and a hush fell on the stands.
Challenge burned in the depth of her lavender tinted pools as she tightened her grip on the long naginata.
She took a few running steps and hurled the weapon with all her remaining strength. It embedded itself at their feet, splattering the blood from the blade onto their clothes. Her blood.
It remained there quivering and tied to its handle, a slashed cloud forehead protector flopped in defeat.
Gasps from the Kumo nobles were heard in the face of this bold declaration of war. She didn't need to speak; the message was loud and clear. It proclaimed their failure and spoke of a warning to not cross her again.
The Uchiha fan on her back mocked them when she turned away as if they meant nothing to her. Hinata walked to the center and finally stopped chest heaving.
Sasuke's chest filled with inexplicable pride. That steel he knew was there all along was showing.
She was worthy of that red and white fan. She will bow to no one. His proud little warrior.
The stillness lingered for a few additional moments before one Hanabi Hyuuga rose to her feet delivering the first slow clap. Followed by another, then another.
And then the crowd roared with applause.
Thunderous cheers filled the air as their champion was acclaimed. Somewhere in the sea of people Inuzuka hooted "HELL YEAH! HINATA TOTALLY OWNED THEIR ASSES!". Naruto completely disregarded his Hokage persona as he also cheered and whistled loudly. All of their section followed suit.
Sasuke grinned at the look of bewilderment on her face before it transformed into the most brilliant smile he ever saw.
"Winner of the first peace tournament is HINATA HYUUGA! THE UCHIHA CLAN!" The announcer said and the cheers somehow intensified. Then the most unexpected thing happened.
Someone started to chant and the rest followed.
"U-CHI-HA!…U-CHI-HA!…U-CHI-HA!….U-CHI-HA!…U-CHI-HA!"
They were chanting his name. Because in that moment his name was hers. She fought for herself but she also fought for him. Her victory was his clan's victory.
He hadn't heard anyone speak the Uchiha name in adoration in a very long time. He thought it'll never happen again after his betrayal of the village and later on the savageries committed by Madara Uchiha. But here they were calling it out like it wasn't a curse, all thanks to that wonder who somehow always manages to brighten anything she touched.
She was his salvation.
And in that moment Sasuke could've sworn he felt his brother's spirit beside him saying 'Foolish little brother, if you don't marry her I will.'
The Uchiha was so preoccupied with his epiphany that he didn't hear Neji who grumbled "It's Hinata-sama who won, why are they chanting his name?"
"Well, she's got the looks." Kakashi started "The spirit and fire affinity and she just gotten her first taste of revenge. How long do you think it takes before he gives her his name?"
"Plus, they can't exactly chant Hyuuga when there are two competing" Genma shrugged.
The obsidian gaze didn't waver from the form of his apprentice that was beaming. Her smile started to fade as she suddenly staggered back.
Her back collided with his chest. He was down there in the blink of an eye, holding her upright by the uninjured arm from behind. Her tired lavender eyes glanced up at him.
"Are you alright?" Sasuke spoke softly but she still heard him over the noise and applause.
"I am now." Hinata mustered a smile for him.
"Can you walk?" He asked taking note of her exhausted state.
She nodded and tried taking a few steps away but faltered. She swayed and her eyelids fluttered shut as the Uchiha caught her.
Sasuke wrapped one arm around her back and the other under her knees, lifting her up and holding her close. Her cheek rested on his shoulder.
"I've got you princess." He whispered his lips grazing the crown of her head, before he disappeared leaving only dust behind them.
Contrary To popular belief there is no such thing as pregnancy brain.
Well at least Sakura Haruno did not believe in such a diagnosis.
Yes, her hormones were in overdrive making her crave the strangest of things like Ramen with whipped cream along with a ridiculous addiction to peach.
It was also true that her temper had only increased and poor Naruto was always on the receiving end, making her develop an appreciation for his patience especially since he always made sure to provide her with cuddles even after one of her episodes.
However, her brain was very much functioning at full capacity, she was still the top medic-nin and her expertise were sought after, that is why she was running the ER at Konoha hospitalready for any casualties from today's tournament.
So, no Sakura did not believe pregnancy had any effect on her brain whatsoever which made her wonder why did it decide to betray her and freeze completely when Sasuke appeared seemingly out of nowhere startling the whole staff with Hinata wrapped in his arms.
Because for a moment her mind couldn't find a logical explanation as to why Sasuke who wasn't very fond of physical touch was holding the Hyuuga so close with a gentleness she didn't know he was capable of, nor could it comprehend the reason his thumb caressed her uninjured arm in comfort when she whimpered from pain.
Thankfully her brain decided to have mercy on her and provide her with a missing piece.
The apprenticeship.
She along with everyone else had been shocked to say the least when she heard of it. She didn't understand the how, the when or the why. Naruto had said it was some cold war Sasuke had decided to start with the Hyuuga clan for some reason, and that Hinata's clan was giving her a hard time and Sasuke was just trying to help while spiting them at the same time. It was mainly Clan nonsense.
She had been perplexed because Sasuke wasn't the type to "just try to help".
He only cared about a selected few and didn't do things from the goodness of his heart. Maybe it was uncharitable to think so but it was the truth.
So how did Hinata of all people make it on that very selective list? And why was Naruto concerned about clan affairs, wasn't the Hokage supposed to stay out of them?
Naruto had shrugged nonchalantly at the time and said it was more Hinata he was concerned about and that if Sasuke was in the mood to pertain in a pissing contest with the Hyuuga clan, it wasn't his concern as long as he didn't kill anyone.
That whole statement bugged her for days. Why was Sasuke participating in this so-called pissing contest to begin with and why was Naruto even keeping tabs on his ex-girlfriend? She didn't know which of the two bugged her more.
At this particular moment she was leaning toward the former. The image the two dark-haired individuals made together bothered her.
"Sakura." His voice snapped her out of her thoughts.
Hinata is injured.
Sakura disregarded all her confusion and suspicions as she took command of the situation. A fellow kunoichi and a colleague was injured, there was no time for nonsense.
"Akane-san. Get me one unit of blood, gauze and a sowing kit." The medic tied her pink hair in a tight ponytail as she spoke "Sasuke-kun room 3. Now."
The Uchiha did as told without delay, depositing the woman on the bed and stepping away.
The nurse who she knew was very fond of Hinata was near her with the necessary items immediately handing her a pair of scissors first then walked to the intimidating Uchiha.
"Uchiha-san. It is best that you wait outside." Akane said.
"No." His voice left no room for argument and Sakura didn't have time to ponder on it.
"It's just that…" Akane's sweat dropped "Hyuuga-san is very modest and well we need to…"
"Hn." She didn't need to say more as Sasuke turned around just as Sakura started cutting the top to access the deep wound, glowing green hand were positioned on top of it.
Everything else disappeared from her awareness, there was only the flesh knitting before her emerald eyes and the sound of the heart monitor indicating a stabilizing heartbeat. Once done she proceeded with the chakra transfer. And finally took care of the small cuts and bruises.
It was over in an hour. Sakura whipped the sweat from her eyebrow then walked towards the rigid Uchiha.
"Sasuke-kun. Let's go outside so Akane-san can dress the wound and change her out of her clothes." She used the same compassionate voice she used with all family member when their loved one was hurt.
The kunoichi jolted at the thought. Her teammate was acting like a concerned loved one. Were they really that close?
"Will she be alright?" Sasuke asked his voice neutral but the question itself betrayed his worry.
"Yes. Her chakra is depleted which is why she fainted. She didn't lose a lot of blood and luckily there is no nerve damage." Sakura said "She'll need a few chakra therapy sessions to speed up the healing process but she should make a full recovery. For now, she just needs some rest and we'll give her something for the pain."
"Thank you, Sakura." For some reason his gratitude startled her.
"I..Yes..You're welcome..I'm just doing my job." She mumbled "Akane-san will stay by her side until a family member arrives"
"I'm staying."
Sakura watched his retreating back as he pushed his way through the door once the nurse exited. Sasuke pulled a chair near her bed and proceeded to watch her intently. And she felt that twinge again at the image.
He's her mentor, he's just worried about his apprentice.
Maybe her hormones were acting up again.
The kunoichi moved away swiftly there was no need to be there when Hinata woke up. And she wasn't up to see her especially right now.
The first thing that greeted her when she woke up was the white ceiling and a terrible headache.
She felt like utter shit.
"Welcome back." She turned her eyes towards the voice and felt the world spinning.
"Ow." Hinata said trying to focus on the figure sitting in the chair.
"How are you feeling?" Her vision was still swimming.
"Like I wrestled with a bull and it won." Did I hit my head or are the drugs they gave me that strong?
"Tell that to the bull's ashes." A smirk on a very attractive face appeared. Images started flooding her mind reminding her of the events of today.
"I won?" Her voice sounded hoarse to her own ears.
"With a spectacular victory." Sasuke answered because that was Sasuke sitting there at her bedside.
"Oh" She sat up fast (her head did not thank her) as she remembered the spectacle she made with her finale. She might have sparked an international conflict with that little display. She did not regret it but still "Did I just…start a war?"
"You worry too much Hyuuga." The Uchiha got up and pushed her down gently "Go back to sleep, you need rest."
He sighed when she started working herself up into a frenzy and tried to get up, just to be pushed down again a bit more firmly.
"You didn't start a war Hinata." He took a seat at the edge of her bed "You were defending yourself and you took care of a threat to your clan and the village."
"Yes but…" This time when he pushed her down, he left the two fingers he used between her collarbones to keep her there. There was no use struggling she was way too weak at the moment.
"What? That little bit at the end?" He smirked "You got your point across very efficiently."
She groaned covering her eyes with her one functioning arm.
"I personally liked it." When she peaked at him, she couldn't help but blush at the way he was leaning over her, a hand on the other side of the bed her body trapped under his arm. "I liked it very much."
"I..O-ok" She squeaked when he smirked as if he was aware of what he was doing to her.
"Go back to sleep." He flicked her forehead "before I make you."
Hinata, smart girl that she was decided not to find out how he'd go about doing that and she was very tired anyway, she had only slept for two hours or so. She closed her eyes and started to feel herself drifting but not before she felt a pair of lips on her cheek.
"Good girl."
She did not think it was possible to blush when dreaming but apparently it was.
Gods the drugs were really doing a number on her mind.
The second time she came around, she was much more lucid. She was also alone. Maybe she hallucinated that whole conversation.
"Hinata-san you're awake!" judging by Akane's tone and the setting sun she must've slept all day.
"How are you feeling?" The nurse smiled checking her vitals.
"Much better." It was true, she didn't feel as drowsy when she set up at the edge of the bed. She still felt tired and her shoulder throbbed painfully but at least she could think clearly.
"I'm glad. Uchiha-san will be relieved."
"S-sasuke was here?" Hinata asked.
"He didn't leave your bedside" Akane smiled "He just stepped out to get you something to eat while I gave you your check up."
"Oh." A blush adorned her cheeks, so maybe she wasn't dreaming after all.
"Everything looks good" The brunette said "Are you up for some visitors?"
"Aren't visiting hours over?"
"I already made an exception for you Hinata-san." Akane laughed as she headed towards the door "Although something tells me I couldn't kick Uchiha-san out even if I tried. Anyway, I'll let them in."
Hinata smiled to herself as the door opened. Her smile fell when her father and three elders walked in, she felt reassured when Neji followed them. Except he looked grim faced.
"Father." She straightened putting her hands on her hospital gown. The pain in her injury increased at the motion.
"Daughter. How is your health?" He asked his voice emotionless as usual.
"I am well."
"Congratulation on your victory Hinata-sama" Neji said trying to break the ice. She sent him a grateful smile.
"That undignified display is not a victory." One elder spoke harshly.
"It is my victory and the Hyuuga's too." Hinata spoke. This particular elder had a grudge against her because she rejected him, he should've been ashamed to even propose such a thing. He was her father's age! "There was a threat to the Byakugan and I dealt with it."
"You did good." Her father's response startled her; she was expecting more of a scolding. It appeared to have startled all the Hyuugas present.
"Hiashi-sama you cannot be encouraging that savagery we witness!" Hijo said before turning to her "It is unseemly! Your actions reflect on our clan. Disregarding all our teachings by using that barbaric chakra. You are unworthy of your title"
"Elder Hijo! That's enough" Hiashi spoke with authority in reprimand.
"I agree with elder Hijo" Hinata shivered at the voice of her grandfather "Didn't I teach you that every Hyuuga is a drop in the river that is our clan. I thought we already fixed your little problem."
"No river can put the fire out." She lifted her chin defiantly, she refused to be shamed any longer.
"I was right from the beginning; you really are a heathen."
Neji's cold voice cut the tension like a knife.
"Be careful how you speak about my lady."
Everything escalated so quickly from there.
"You dare talk back to me" Her grandfather's hand went in a familiar dreadful seal "Know your place boy."
She didn't know if it was the drugs still in her system or something else but she just couldn't watch Neji being subjected to the curse seal's pain just so he could be humiliated by his very own grandfather. Her uninjured arm raised and even though her chakra reserves were practically nonexistent, she managed to ignite her fingers. A small blue flame reached his hand burning him slightly.
"How dare you!? You insolent child!" He loomed over her quickly and she felt like that five-year-old again: helpless and utterly at his mercy "I shall teach you manners."
His hand raised and she froze.
The sound resonated in the hospital room.
But it wasn't the sound of the slap she was waiting for.
CRACK!
It was the sound of bones snapping. Because in front of her stood Sasuke and he was furious.
There were a few things Sasuke Uchiha knew about himself with absolute certainty.
He knew he had been born an innocent like all children. That innocence was taken away when his beloved brother exterminated their whole family. He then became a survivor.
He knew that darkness corrupted him at the age of twelve and he became an avenger.
He knew he was completely consumed by hatred when he learned the truth about what the village did to his brother and he knew that a part of him went a little insane at the time.
Nothing but the total annihilation of the leaf would've been enough to quell his rage. If it weren't for Naruto being a thorn in his side and stopping him, he would've committed a terrible mistake.
So yes, Sasuke knew rage and he knew hatred and he knew that darkness still lurked inside of him in the back of his mind but he believed he had a handle on it all.
And yet nothing could have prepared him for the absolute fury that overtook his senses when that coward raised his hand to strike Hinata.
He was standing at the door when he felt it creeping in, the moment that old Hyuuga uttered his first words and Hinata's body betrayed her.
Any shinobi worth their salt was capable of suppressing their chakra, more so in missions and high stress situations. Eventually it becomes a reflex and sometimes when startled or afraid the body lowers its own chakra signature.
It shouldn't have been a surprise when something in him snapped the second her chakra signature shrunk until it disappeared completely from his senses.
Because Hinata didn't feel safe.
And even though she presented a brave front, when that man spoke she became terrified.
The woman who faced down six opponents out to kill her fearlessly a few hours ago was afraid of this old man.
That was his last coherent thought before tumbling over the edge.
Sasuke didn't feel himself moving nor did he feel the amount of killing intent he released that paralyzed the whole hospital in fright.
He didn't hear the bones shattering nor did he hear the Hyuuga's screams over the roaring in his ears.
He didn't see the elder crumpling to the floor clutching his head, all he saw was red as his Mangekou Sharingan spun to life to trap him in a Genjutsu that mimicked his brother's Tsukuyomi.
All he felt was darkness.
"I'm going to kill you." His voice came out flat as if he was commenting on the weather and yet everyone took several steps back.
Even Neji who wasn't afraid of him most of the time jolted back, because before him wasn't the man that liked messing with him by insinuating he was corrupting his cousin. He wasn't even the Anbu Commander that innerved everyone. This was Sasuke Uchiha the second coming of Madara, the terror in front of which the five nations trembled.
And tremble they did.
He could hear someone calling his name. Was that Kakashi? When did he get here? It didn't matter. All that mattered was squishing this pathetic excuse of a human being.
"Sasuke." It was a soft whisper that reached him.
His crimson eyes snapped towards the small hand placed on his arm. He was vaguely aware of a few too many harsh intakes of breath the moment her palm made contact with his skin. As if he'd ever harm her.
Oh look a few Anbus showed up. Brave men. He'll be sure to promote them later.
But the bravest of them all was his princess looking him in the eye with no hint of fear in her own. After what felt like a long staring contest he spoke.
"These people need to show you more respect."
"Please don't." Her voice was pleading.
The pattern of his Sharingan changed back to its regular three Tomoe. The screaming stopped as the elder Hyuuga was left drooling on the floor.
"Did you hear that?" Sasuke's gaze didn't leave hers, because those orbs were the only thing tethering him to reality "That is your angel of mercy pleading for your meaningless existence."
He kept his focus on the hand that grasped his fingers paying no mind to the shuffling behind him.
Must be the two others Hyuuga helping that worm stand.
He gave her a squeeze of reassurance before fixing his glare back at the remaining Hyuugas.
"If you so much as breathe the same air as her again. Your life will be reduced to an unending series of agonizing torture and when I'm done, they won't even find what's left of you."
Neji cringed. At least the elders had the good sense to run away.
"Sasuke. Don't you think you went a bit overboard with that threat?" Kakashi gestured for the Anbu to stand down. Normally they were under his command but it was expected that they listen to the Hatake considering his current state of mind.
"He threatened one of my Anbu and tried to hurt my apprentice, he's lucky to be drawing breath" Everyone tensed again "and that was a promise not a threat"
Hinata squeezed his hand again.
"Fine." Kakashi held the bridge of his noise over his mask. Sometimes he missed his cute student who spend the day trying to catch that cat that always ran away from its owner "Do you mind dialing back on the killing intent? You're scaring the medical staff."
Sasuke reined it in and the room released a collective breath of relief.
"I think it's better we all leave now." The silver-haired jonin said. The Anbu and Hiashi obeyed but Neji refused to move. His cousin didn't seem to be letting go of the volatile Uchiha anytime soon, and he didn't want to leave her alone with him.
"I am not so far gone that I'd hurt your cousin." His red orbs snapped to the last standing Hyuuga.
Kakashi placed a hand on the brown-haired man's shoulder.
"It's ok. He's in control and she's probably the last person he'd ever hurt." The jonin whispered "We'll be right outside. Let her calm him."
Neji moved reluctantly.
Once the door closed. Sasuke turned to face Hinata who still didn't let go.
"Did I frighten you?" His voice was still devoid of emotion. He studied her face for any hint of fear when she shook her head in the negative. There was none. She looked more concerned for him than anything else.
"You know I'd never hurt you." He caressed her face gently and felt relief when she didn't flinch from his touch.
"I know."
Instead of recoiling she did the opposite and pulled him in, gently wrapping her one good arm around him.
"It's ok." She said softly and he almost laughed out loud, she was the one comforting him. He must've lost it spectacularly.
"You were afraid of him." He buried his face in her hair hoping her scent will ground him "This was not the first time he did that was it?"
"That's not important right now." She held him more tightly as if afraid he'd go after him to finish the job. "I'm fine."
The Uchiha wrapped his own arms around her. He remembered every time she hesitated to use her fire affinity. He felt his blood boiling again at the idea of a small five-year-old Hinata being subjected to that by her own grandfather who probably didn't see anything wrong with his educational methods to fix her.
And they called him a monster.
She ran her fingers through his hair trying to sooth him and he felt his Sharingan finally turn off. That was good he was regaining control.
"There are a few houses still standing in the Uchiha District. Choose whichever you like." He offered as he nuzzled her neck. "No one can cross the barrier but us."
"I will not run." Hinata's voice was soft but firm "I won't give them that satisfaction. I won't break."
So fierce. So beautiful. My brave warrior princess.
He felt her hand falter for a moment before resuming stroking his dark locks.
Did I say that out loud?
"Yes." She answered and he could hear the smile in her voice.
"It looks like I'm still a bit out of it." His forehead rested on her shoulder. "I'm sorry for all this."
"That's okay." He shivered when she started playing with the hair at the nape of his neck.
"I told you I had severe anger issues." He smiled when a laugh escaped her lips.
"Only a little." He was glad she didn't seem afraid of all that darkness he displayed. He never wanted her to see him like this. He thought he'd had absolute control over it but apparently he sometimes couldn't escape it.
"I should go." Sasuke sighed "Your cousin is probably about to barge in thinking I murdered you."
"Stay." Maybe she was more shaken up than she let on, but she was still in his arms anyway "He'll get over it."
"It's your funeral."
"Who knew Commander Uchiha had a sense of humor." Her giggle widened his smile.
"Yes It was funny to terrorize your family I have this urge to go do it some more." She only held him harder taking his claim seriously.
Sasuke pressed his lips to the side of her neck and deposited a soft kiss in consolation. He saw her cheeks flush from the corner of his eye. The Uchiha smirked satisfied by her reaction and wondered if he could get away with another one.
Although he pretended otherwise, he was completely in control now.
But she didn't need to know that.
The Hyuuga was roused from her sleep again by the sound of the door sliding open. What greeted her was a flowers arrangement and behind it; sapphire eyes.
"Oh good you're awake" Ino said putting the vase on the night stand "How did you sleep?"
"I slept okay" Her cheeks matched the pink carnations in the vase.
She slept more than okay considering she had used Sasuke's chest as a pillow. The last thing she remembered was holding on to him so he didn't go and murder her grandfather in a fit of rage and then she woke up in his arms the next morning. They must have both dozed off.
She had been embarrassed and squeaked loudly enough to wake him. That's when she discovered that Sasuke Uchiha was not a morning person as he grumbled and grabbed her waist to pull her back snuggly against his chest, threatening to go on a murder spree if she didn't let him sleep in peace. She had stayed put since his hold was tight and she was still too weak to break out of it (A combination of her depleted chakra and the drug). His heartbeat lulled her back to sleep.
He must've left not too long ago judging by the still warm bed.
"Helloooo? Earth to Hinata" Ino snapped her fingers "Why is your face so red?"
"No reason." She squeaked.
"Uh huh. Does this have to do with a certain gorgeous Uchiha who almost leveled the hospital yesterday?"
"You heard about that?" Hinata grimaced.
"I didn't hear about it. I felt it. Hell, the whole hospital felt it." The blond said sitting at the edge of her bed "The killing intent was so oppressive that even Lady Tsunade faltered. She was about to call for an emergency evacuation if it wasn't for the Anbu that showed up to inform her that Kakashi-sensei was handling it."
"Oh." She shouldn't have been shocked by the intensity with which he defended her. Being a ward of his clan, she knew that an insult to her was an insult to him but a part of her also knew he would've stepped in even if she hadn't signed that apprenticeship contract.
"Seriously Hinata, we had to body block Sakura from running in belly first into danger." The Yamanaka fluffed her pillows "What the hell happened?"
"Sasuke would never hurt a comrade" The blue-haired kunoichi frowned at Ino's cocked eyebrow "well he wouldn't now."
"I'm guessing it had something to do with your clan?"
"Yes."
"They were being dicks and I presume Sasuke put them back in their place." Ino's voice was full of conviction.
"Something like that" The Hyuuga cringed.
"Well, whatever it is they won't be bothering you as Lady Tsunade revoked their visiting rights." The blonde moved to open the window allowing the sun to illuminate the previously dim room "She also banned Sasuke from setting foot in the hospital except in case of a medical emergency."
"That's a bit of an overreaction." Hinata frowned.
"Is it? By the way, I'll be doing your chakra therapy" her sapphire eyes had that teasing glimmer "I know blondes aren't your type anymore and you much prefer dark-haired individuals with homicidal tendencies but you're stuck with little old me for now."
"Ino-chan! It's not nice to mock a sick person." Ino laughed at her puffed out cheeks that only emphasized her blush.
"You're just injured Hinata not sick. I'll get you up and running in no time." Her hands started to glow green as she put them over her shoulder.
"Thank you." Hinata smiled "And thank you for the flowers, they're really lovely."
"Yeah. Gaara-kun helped me pick them." The blonde said absentmindedly.
"Gaara-kun? Not Kazekage-sama? " Hinata's smile widened when she saw a blush adorning her friend's cheeks.
"I've been giving him tours of the Yamanaka greenhouses and he comes to the flower shop sometimes" Ino shifted her gaze "He seemed really interested in botany."
"I'm sure that's all he's interested in" The bluenette teased. Oh how the tables have turned.
"Shut up." Her friend grumbled.
Her stay at the hospital was uneventful if you didn't count her teammates' lively visits.
Shino's presence was of course calmer than the restbut Kurenai had brought along her daughter Mirai. The little girl had been so excited to show 'Nata' the get well soon card she made.
It had a lot of glitter.
Kiba of course was more hyped up than the three-year-old with a sugar high, he kept on discussing her performance over and over again. The fact that he lost the bet to Sasuke didn't even put a dumper on his enthusiasm.
Sasuke betting on her to win the whole tournament was astonishing. She knew he had faith in her capabilities but she didn't know it was that ardent.
He couldn't visit considering he was banned from the hospital and the fact that Naruto buried him with work to keep him occupied as to not cause more trouble.
Ino who she was seeing daily for her chakra therapy told her all about it, she also informed her that she had learned from a very reliable source (read Shikamaru ) that something went down between the Hyuuga elders and the Hokage. Apparently, the elders went to complain about Sasuke's behavior and Naruto had been angry with them instead.
The blonde had looked at her with that all knowing look when the verdict was pronounced that it was a clan affair and the Hokage will not be getting involved.
It was obvious that a quarrel between the Hyuuga clan and the Uchiha clan could only be about her.
Hinata hadn't elaborated further and Ino hadn't pushed for answer.
They spoke instead of the new Ninja clothing shop that opened in the village. The Yamanaka had promised to take her shopping since her outfit was in tatters after her last battle.
The Hyuuga had held the scraps of fabric in her hand with such a dejected look and the other kunoichi had started to tease her about her attachment to it, theorizing it was because it came from a certain Uchiha.
That was when the Anbu showed up.
"Can I help you?" Ino asked
"I have a delivery for Hyuuga-san." The masked man jumped from the window to the room.
"For me?" Hinata's eyebrows furrowed "Is it a scroll from the Hokage?"
That was weird she was out of commission so she couldn't go on missions. Maybe Naruto was summoning her to know about her side of the event that happened a few days ago.
"It's from the commander."
"Oh"
"The commander sends his regards and apologies for not visiting and he wanted me to tell you that he is keeping his promise." The Anbu spoke in a no-nonsense tone as if he was delivering a report.
"What promise?" The blonde was at the edge of her seat.
Hinata of course knew what he was talking about. She made him promise not to go after her grandfather. She didn't want him to be branded a criminal again. He agreed as long as the old Hyuuga followed his instructions (threats) which was to not be anywhere near her ever again.
"I am also to be at your disposal if you need anything"
Hinata frowned at that.
"That's not necessary"
The Anbu didn't tell her that his real mission was to watch over her and protect her if need be since she couldn't defend herself at the moment. And to not under any circumstance let her know that or the Commander will be having his hide.
"The commander said that you will say that and in which case I am to tell you that it's his prerogative to employ his subordinates the way he sees fit." The masked man answered.
"It's power abuse." Her frown deepened and a pout found its way onto her lips.
"He said that you'll say that too at which point I am to inform you that this mission is a punishment for me and that it is mild as far as punishment goes and that I'll be demoted to doing D-ranks if you refuse my services and…" The man stopped talking and cleared his throat.
"And?" the blue haired questioned.
"And to stop pouting like a petulant princess who didn't get her way."
Ino lost it at that point and started laughing like a maniac.
Hinata's cheeks flushed in indignation once she realized she was indeed pouting.
Baka.
"Fine" She said gritting her teeth "Anything else?"
"Yes." The man answered "I am to give you these."
That's when she noticed the flowers. It was a small vase of blue Hydrangeas.
Simple. Beautiful.
A blush adorned her cheeks for a different reason now. Sasuke sent her flowers?
It was traditional to get flowers when in the hospital. Hell, even Neji who didn't believe in such nonsense (his words not hers) had sent sunflowers. But Sasuke didn't strike her as the type to just engage in social niceties.
Ino gasped near her.
"I'll be close by Hyuuga-san if you need anything just send a pulse of chakra and I'll be here." He disappeared once the blonde kunoichi took the vase from his hand.
"Oh. My. God!" Ino squealed. "He is falling for you!"
"What?!" Hinata tried to cool her burning cheeks.
"You know what these flowers means?" the blonde clapped her hands in delight.
"Emm. No?" Hinata might've loved gardening and she knew how to put together a beautiful flower arrangement but she didn't remember her kunoichi lessons at the academy about flower symbolism.
"It represents an apology but also gratitude, endurance and understanding" Ino was giddy "There is a myth that tells the tale of an Emperor, who having angered a woman he loved deeply due to his neglect of her in favour of his work, gifted her with a bunch of blue hydrangeas as a symbol of his deep emotions and gratitude towards her."
Hinata admired the light blue flowers that made all the others pale in comparison.
"To gift a bunch of blue hydrangeas to another is to say that you consider them to be as important to you as the beat of your own heart." the blonde kunoichi sighed dreamily.
"Ino-chan. I doubt Sasuke knows the language of flowers." The Hyuuga said "He probably just liked the color. It doesn't mean anything."
"Then why are you blushing like mad?" she cocked a blonde eyebrow.
"It's just..well.." Hinata stuttered
"You are so in denial" The blonde sighed exasperated.
"I am not!"
"D-E-N-I-A-L. Denial!"
Hinata pouted crossing her arms. Then she scowled when she realized she was pouting about Sasuke.
Again.
Ino grinned as if she could read her mind.
"Oh. Shut up."
After numerous therapy sessions and a lot of bed rest. Lady Tsunade finally signed off on her release after telling her to not over exert herself and that training was strictly off the table.
The kunoichi had consented, anything to let her leave the hospital. She could not stand being in this room with nothing to do any longer. She had breezed through the books provided by Shino and even the surgery cases Ino brought along to keep her occupied had made her itch to go back to work more.
Hinata had felt compelled to do so because a part of her wanted to know that she could still save a life after she took so many. She had wondered if something was wrong with her, knowing that guilt didn't rack her like all the other times she took a life on a mission.
It had felt right and that scared her.
She wanted to see Sasuke the most knowing he'd know what to say to her. He always knew what to say to not make her feel so wrong.
Hinata had just finished changing when someone knocked at the door.
"Come in" She was ecstatic with the face that greeted her "Neji-Nii-san! I missed you."
"Hinata-sama." He gave her one of his rare smiles "I'm glad you're better."
"You came to take me home?" She smiled more when he nodded.
"Just give me a minute." The Hyuuga packed the last of her stuff before turning around to face her cousin. What greeted her made her falter.
Because before her was Neji bowing, his forehead pressed to the floor.
"N-Nii-san. What are you doing?"
"I am forever grateful to you. You have done what I always yearned to do but had never been able to." His voice was full of emotion and she wondered if he was shocking up on unshed tears "You have delivered justice to my father's murderer and I can never repay you enough."
Hinata kneeled as well taking hold of his shoulder to lift him up.
"Please, don't bow to me ever again." Her eyes watered "You are my big brother and it pains me to see you in that position."
"You are my Lady." He answered with a small smile.
"You are my family." She clasped both his hand tightly. "And he was my family too. The uncle who fed me cinnamon rolls secretly when my governess forbade me from eating any more sweets. The man who let me cry after one of my harsh training sessions. It is the least I can do after being responsible for his death."
"Hinata-sama." Her cousin took a sharp intake of breath "You were never responsible for his death. I blamed you unjustly before knowing the truth and for that I am sorry" He wiped the tears rolling down her cheeks "He chose to give his life because he loved his brother and I understand that."
The Hyuuga male clasped his own hands over hers.
"Do you remember at the war when you put yourself between Obito Uchiha's wood Thrusting Spears and Naruto and I rushed in to get you both out of the way?" He gave her hands a squeeze "I have never understood my father more than in that moment. I was ready to die for you, not because I am a branch member and it was my duty to protect the heiress, but because I couldn't bear the thought of a world without your smile in it, even if I never get to see it again."
That only made her cry harder.
"You are my Lady but you are also precious to me. And I will always protect you to the best of my abilities until the gods take me from this earth." Neji vowed
Even though she knew her cousin wasn't comfortable with physical affection, she threw herself at him and hugged him tightly.
"I love you too big brother."
After having washed her face to get rid of any trace of crying. They left the hospital together.
Their walk to the compound was spent in comfortable silence. Hinata looked at Neji and promised herself to spend more time with him when their busy schedules allowed it. She still hadn't tested herself against him in a spar. But that'll have to wait for now, and it'll have to be outside Hyuuga ground if she wanted to fight at full capacity.
The Hyuuga giggled at herself, Sasuke had created a monster. He was not helping with her "adrenaline addiction." Neji sent her a quizzical look.
"It's nothing, I just remembered something Sasuke said." The blue-haired kunoichi answered.
Her cousin sighed. "What is going in on between you and the Uchiha?"
"Nothing's going on" Her blush of course decided to betray her.
"You two are practically joined at the hip" He raised an eyebrow "And after that display at the hospital I doubt 'nothing is going on'"
And no he wasn't just talking about the way the Uchiha almost killed an elder. He was talking about what happened after. Of course he activated his Byakugan to make sure Hinata was safe. He was not pleased with what he saw.
"H-He's my mentor and friend?" She wasn't exactly sure what Sasuke was at this point. He made her stronger and trusted her to handle herself. He gave her his protection and access to his home. He also liked to tease her and sometimes push her buttons but he also gifted her with one of his precious brother's possessions and liked to break into her room and leave gift.
And flowers. her mind reminded her. So yes she wasn't sure about what he meant to her anymore. But she was not about to let Neji know that, he was bound to overreact.
"He's protective, I guess? You, Shino and Kiba are the same way."
Neji scoffed. It was not the same way at all. He unlike his cousin was not blind to the way the Uchiha looked at her; with longing and affection. It was that look that saved him from being castrated in his sleep when he also looked at her with desire and hunger.
And although Hinata was a grown woman capable of making her own choices. It was his sacred duty to scare her many suitors.
Neji could admit that after the confrontation between the elders and the last Uchiha, he could now without a doubt trust him with Hinata's safety. But could he trust him with her heart? He recalled how heartbroken she was after she and Naruto broke up. She now seemed to be better, and she even appears to have moved on.
"You never told me what happened between you and Naruto either." The Hyuuga frowned.
"I'd rather not say. It's not entirely my story to tell" Hinata bit her lip. It seemed like a lifetime ago "It's in the past anyway." Which reminded her that it was time to forgive the expecting parents. Having a child was a joyful thing no matter the circumstances of his or her conception.
Hinata smiled to herself. It was decided. She was meeting both Sakura and Naruto to wish them happiness.
She was so lost in her thoughts that she didn't notice they were already standing in front of the Hyuuga compound. Hinata sighed.
Let's get this over with.
The door slid and both Hyuuga walked inside the courtyard. The heiress stopped in her track at what met her.
It was packed with members of the clan. Branch members to be exact.
"What's going on?" The kunoichi asked. Why was everybody staring?
"They're here to see you." Neji said "And welcome you back."
It was still strange. This was not her first stay at the hospital. This never happened before.
She had no way of knowing what was about to happen next.
All of them with no exception, young and old. From her guardian Ko, to the old cook that taught her, to the children she made an ointment for.
All of them sank to their knees and bowed their heads in respect.
Hinata felt herself rooted at the spot. She looked at her cousin helplessly.
"They're pledging their allegiance to you." Neji explained his eyes holding deep pride "You fought for one of them and risked your life to save him. Instead of using a branch member as a shield as it was costumery, you took a knife for him. You treated him as an equal and they will never forget that."
"Rise" Her voice was but a whisper, yet they all obeyed.
Hinata took tentative steps towards them and the children were the first to break the atmosphere and swarm her with questions and inquisition. They were young enough to not have been forced into the Hyuuga cold mold.
"Is true you can shoot flames from your hands?"
"My mother told me you protect our honor like a fierce warrior."
"She's not a warrior stupid! She's a princess."
"No you're stupid! She can be both."
"Is it true that the bad red eyed monster is your friend?"
"When I grow up I want to be just like you! A strong kunoichi and a princess at heart. That's what cousin Hetoe said."
Hinata felt overwhelmed, she never did like attention.
"Okay, okay that's enough" Ko smiled at her "Go back to your studies. Welcome home Hinata-sama."
"Thank you Ko." She walked over and the crowd parted for her to reveal her sister standing on top of the wooden stairs. Hinata stopped anxious at her sister's reaction to all this, she was after all the rightful heir but the branch member just swore to follow her. But Hanabi's eyes were bright with happiness and though she didn't hug her she knew that she will the moment they were behind closed doors. It was after all the way they were raised.
Both Hyuuga heiresses didn't say anything as they went to Hinata's room. And as predicted the moment they were alone, she was tackled to the ground.
"Hanabi! That hurt." Hinata giggled.
"I'm sorry." Hanabi grinned "It's just that I missed you so much. I'm sorry I couldn't visit."
"It's ok Neji couldn't either." The younger Hyuuga helped her stand up "But I did receive your box of sweets. They were delicious."
"Still. I should've been there." She dragged her to the bed "Even Uchiha-san said I couldn't visit."
"Y-You went to S-sasuke?" Her mouth was agape.
"Who else would break the rules for you." Hanabi huffed "He's very broody by the way." She tried to imitate his voice "No little Hyuuga I am not breaking into your sister's room. Now go away I have puppies to kick and old biddies to frighten"
Laughter bubbled out of the blue-haired heiress. She could just imagine Sasuke being subjected to her sister's incessant demands. She loved her dearly, but Hanabi just couldn't take no for answer.
"Why are you laughing? He called me a brat!" Her sister turned her head away "I'm telling you Onee-chan, your prince is not all that charming."
"My what?!" Hinata squeaked.
"Hmm You are right" Hanabi contemplated "he's more of the dragon guarding the princess than a prince charming."
Her sister gave her a smile that made her envision a cat that caught the canary.
"I heard all about how he came inside your room huffing and puffing and made grandfather pee his pants." She grinned "I wished I was there to see it. Grandfather hadn't been able to speak for three days."
Hinata however was glad her sister was not there, it was best that she saw Sasuke as her potential love interest than the dangerous man he was, she would've been terrified.
Wait what?! Potential love interest! What the hell am I thinking?!
"So tell me about it" The younger Hyuuga wiggled her eyebrows teasingly "Is it true he held you in his embrace after?"
"What?!" Hinata squeaked.
"Neji Nii-san kept grumbling about 'that bastard who needed to understand the meaning of personal space', I'm guessing he activated his Byakugan and saw you." Hanabi made herself comfortable on the bed "Unless of course you were going around and allowing strange man into your 'personal space'"
The older sister eeped.
"I want to know every detail. First what did he do to grandfather to make him afraid of his own reflection" Her eyes sparkled "Second what did Nii-san mean by personal space. Is it a simple hug? Is it a steamy hug? Is it a I will protect-you-from-everyone hug? Waaaait! Is it even a hug?! Did you guys kiss?!"
"No Hanabi!" Hinata's face was redder than a tomato "We d-did not k-kiss."
"Do you want him to?" She gasped "Oh my god you do!"
"Y-you're j-jumping to conclusions."
"Well either way he could use a kiss" She giggled "He is so grumpy. Maybe it will brighten his disposition a little."
Hinata hid her face with both her hands. This was going to be a long night.
AN: Soooo we already established that Neji is a big brother to Hinata but I just wanted to point out the difference I always envision between Neji and Sasuke. Neji would die for Hinata, but Sasuke would kill for her. Is it wrong I find that kinda hot? Whatever we all have our issues.
Also I think everyone needed a reminder on who Sasuke Uchiha really was especially the Hyuugas. Just because a lion lets you pet him does not mean he won't rip your head off if he wanted to.
I would also like to admit that my eyes watered when I was writing the Hinata/Neji hospital scene.
Now let's talk about your previous reviews. I died I actually died. I squeal every time I read a review. I am so happy that you liked the fighting scenes I was apprehensive at the beginning of the story. But I'm glad it was to your liking. I also think that the previous chapter was epic. Let's hope I can top that later on. There will be fluff, there will be drama, there will be heat.
Do I need to tell you to leave reviews at this point? You already know it makes me write faster. I swear it somehow does.
-Your Totally-a-sucker-for-a-morally-grey-character writer
Lady Thunder Storm