This is the first of the major changes of this story from the original version unlike the original where Naruto didn't talk to Hinata until after the mock battle and Sasuke talking to Mercedes until chapter 4 in the original version this chapter primarily focuses on them this also is the chapter where Ingrid and Hinata talk for the first time unlike the original which happened in chapter 4.
I plan on setting up the polygamy early on in the story. For those who haven't read the original you could ignore this note or just read the original to notice the differences.
If you haven't read the original version don't read the end notes for the chapter because it's spoiler heavy.
chapter 3 Why not just talk to her?
It had been 2 weeks since Sasuke had enrolled in the Blue Lions, and it was driving Annette crazy how Mercedes and Sasuke barely exchanged words with each other. Every time Sasuke tried to say something, he couldn't form a sentence. Every time Mercedes tried to say anything, it was the same. She wanted to yell at both of them just to talk. It was ridiculous—they were friends, yet why were they barely saying anything to each other? She liked to ask her new friend Hinata. Perhaps she knows why that is? But then again, she noticed something about Hinata as well. She saw her and Naruto only exchange a few words with each other, and she knew even a blind bat could see that they liked each other.
Hinata was blind to Naruto liking her, and Naruto was blind to Hinata liking him. It was driving her up the wall. Her boyfriend noticed her annoyance.
"It's driving me up the wall, Felix. Why won't they just talk? It can't be that difficult," Annette said, annoyed that something so obvious was eluding her.
"I really don't want to get involved. I'm not," Felix said.
"But it's obvious they like each other," Annette insisted.
"Perhaps there's something we don't know ourselves. Besides, it's not really our business what our classmates do outside of class," Felix said, not budging on the issue.
"You didn't say that when people were saying that about us?" Annette said, which caused him to freeze, realizing that he had no way to argue with her.
He sighed. There was no way he could argue against what Annette was saying. He didn't want to because it was hard to disagree with her.
"Okay, I'll make a deal. You talk Mercedes into talking to Sasuke, and I'll push Sasuke to talk to Mercedes. Deal?" Felix asked. She smiled, knowing that her boyfriend could see it her way. She wanted to see her best friend and Sasuke talk. They were friends after all. There was no reason why they couldn't just gather up the courage and talk to each other.
"I hope I'm not going to regret this,"said Felix.
"You won't, I promise."Annette said with her girlish smile.
At the end of the week she was going to get those two to talk now if only she could find out what was wrong with Hinata, if she could help her too that would be great.
December 22nd 1174 December
Sasuke was coming home from the academy. He couldn't wait to be done with it; it was so boring. He wished things were like they were in the old days, when people could come out of the academy much faster. But because of what happened with his brother, a mandate was made: unless it was a time of war, an individual had to be at least 12 before they could become a Shinobi. 3 months Sasuke thought. 3 months more of this tedious schooling, and he would finally be able to get some real training.
There was a fuss about a foreigner from Adrestia. She lived alone, an asylum seeker under the protection of the Hokage. Her mother was currently looking for a home in their home continent. He had no idea who she was, nor did he care, because she would likely be another one of those annoying fangirls if she saw him.
He would be lying if he wasn't curious about what the fuss was about. Usually, she went to the shrine on the outskirts of the village to pray. He rarely went there except to pay a prayer in respect to his fallen family and clan. Since he was due to do another prayer, he decided to make a trip. He walked for about 30 minutes until he got to the shrine. It was made from the same Hinoki materials that the average shrines in the Land of Fire are built from. He supposed there was a beauty to it; the colors were what was expected out of the shrine. He always wondered why the girl arrived. Why would she pray here of all places?
He did not know what to say damn it. Why was it so hard to say something?
"I Hope I'm not causing inconvenience to you, I'll leave if you want me to."The girl said not wanting to cause any trouble, Sasuke didn't think she did anything wrong. He was nervous damn it why was it so difficult? He decided to ask her a question.
"I saw you sit in a kneeling position as you prayed. What's the purpose in that?"Sasuke asked her, finally able to talk even if it's a question about her faith.
"I'm a foreigner from a different land and customs. I can explain it to you with no problem. In the religion of Sothis we do it as a way of kneeling in a way of submission for the goddess to listen to our prayers. There's also other ways to."she put her two hands together and put her palms near her nose. "That's another way of praying. There's other ways of doing it too but I prefer doing it when I'm alone,"Mercedes explained.
"I know next to nothing about the deity Sothis. Who is she, and why is she so important?" Sasuke asked, now interested in hearing more. He had heard very little about the lands beyond the Land of Fire, especially in a continent called Fódlan. He knows he'll go there one day, and this girl is from there. Despite not knowing her, he would like to know more. He continues to listen patiently as she continues her explanation.
"She came down from the sky one day and saved all of mankind from the darkness that engulfed the land. She led mankind to the first golden age where there were many years of peace. If you believe in her and you pray, she will listen to you and answer your prayers, though not in the way that you would expect." The girl answered.
"How do you know she will listen?" Sasuke asked her.
"You just have to believe if you pray to her and believe in her, she will listen to you. I know you're not religious,. I won't force my religion on you, but I would like to learn "What is the religion of the Uchiha clan?" The woman looked curious; she wanted to learn about his clan's religion. What was the point he thought he was the last of them.
"My clan didn't really have a religion because the religion of Konoha is a religion that many nations where I'm from believe in the sage of six paths." The woman looked at him wide-eyed.
"I never heard of such a religion, who is the sage of six paths?" The girl asked excitedly.
"It would take a long time to explain that I'm not that knowledgeable. The only thing I do know is he brought peace and prosperity to the land I'm from, at least that's what the legend says."
She looked like she wanted to know more.
"I don't know anyone in this village you wouldn't mind teaching me about the sage of six paths would you?"the girl asked him.
She was close to him. Sasuke noticed when he saw her up close; it was different. He felt like he was in the presence of a goddess.
"I do have a book about him, but I'd have to translate it. It's not in the language here."Sasuke admitted he didn't know why he still had it. Wasn't nostalgia enough? To remind himself of his clan? He didn't know when he pushed those thoughts aside for the time being.
"Oh I'm sorry I've been rude up until this point I haven't properly introduced myself. My name is Mercedes von Martritz. What's your name?" Mercedes asked her name Sasuke thought it was different than what he was used to hearing it was as foreign as it got but there was something about it that was beautiful. He couldn't space out he didn't want the girl to think the wrong idea.
"My name is Uchiha Sasuke."Sasuke replied.
"I've noticed everyone introduces their last name first and their first name afterwards. Why is that?"Mercedes asked.
She didn't know much about the culture; he couldn't blame her; she has only been here for a few weeks. Though she was able to speak the language well, he could tell she couldn't read it in his native language. He didn't want to be rude he answered her question.
"To call someone by their first name in my culture is not considered proper. Unless they are a friend or a loved one." Sasuke answered
"I'm sorry Uchiha San, it must be obvious to you you're so much I don't know could you answer another one of my questions?" the girl asked him curiously.
"Sure, go ahead." Sasuke wondered what kind of question she would ask.
"Can you explain to me the honorifics? I don't know much about them. I don't want to say anything that can offend anyone and you're the first one to talk to me. I hope it's not too much to ask?" Mercedes asked him.
"Sure, that's not a problem." Sasuke went into detail about what each of the honorifics meant. He noticed that Mercedes was looking even more wide-eyed.
"I see. I really like them. Do you mind if I call you Sasuke-kun?" the girl asked him. She truly did want to call him by an honorific.
"Sure, go ahead. If it's okay with you, I can call you Mercie." Sasuke turned away, embarrassed. He didn't realized that Mercedes was also blushing.
"I'm hungry. Would you mind continuing this conversation at lunch?" asked Mercedes. Sasuke walked out of the shrine with her, and they continued their conversation. Sasuke enjoyed listening to her talk about the religions beyond where he's from. He felt like there was a huge world out there, and for now, he forgot his goal of vengeance. He felt peaceful when he was around Mercedes; he didn't deny that he liked her. He felt calm when he was around her. He wouldn't tell anyone how he felt if he did, he wouldn't hear the end of it.
Naruto was in the Blue Lion's sparring arena once again. There was nothing that said those from other houses couldn't visit other people's sparring rings. But Naruto did so in order to hang out with Ingrid and Sasuke. Since Ingrid or Dorothea wasn't in his class or Sasuke, he spent time with them in between classes. Plus he enjoyed training with them. Everyone was watching as Naruto and Sasuke were getting into their usual positions. Even though Sasuke usually won most of the time, ever since they became Shinobi things were not as one-sided anymore. When Naruto did win, it was still very close.
Everyone in the Blue lions was watching it in interest. This was the first time they saw Naruto and Sasuke spar with each other. The sparring arena was silent for a few moments before Sasuke made the first move. Sasuke was about to do an upper kick to Naruto's face. Naruto dodged to the left. Sasuke tried to hit him on the right side. Naruto used his hands in his feet to flip past Sasuke's blow.
They couldn't go all out due to where they were, but that didn't matter to Naruto. That's not the point of this exercise. Naruto was clashing along with Sasuke using their wooden short swords, which were used in place of kunai. Naruto was smiling and looking forward to it.
He noticed Sasuke was distracted. Mercedes was watching him. Mercedes didn't loudly cheer for Sasuke. She was cheering for him in silence, not wanting to be rude or mean to one of Hinata's friends. Naruto hadn't spoken to her since return to her Homeland 5 years before.
"So when are you going to talk to your crush?" Naruto joked.
"Focus on the damn fight idiot." Sasuke said embarrassed by Naruto's question, "it can't be that bad, Sasuke just talked to her." Naruto said, not aware of the lack of self-awareness.
"How about you take your own advice and talk to Hinata-san instead of lecturing me on what I should be doing?" Sasuke replied back.
Naruto had no rebuke.
Their bout was about to reach its conclusion. Sasuke punched Naruto at the stomach while Naruto kicked Sasuke at his abdomen. Everyone gasped, wondering if Sasuke was okay. He said nothing as he got into his final attack position. Naruto got into his. He allowed Sasuke to strike at him as Leone had taught him as a way to defeat an opponent that is stronger than him. Sasuke was so sure that he won that he was unaware when Naruto knocked him down with a chop on his back.
Dimitri signaled for the match to be over and declared Naruto the winner.
"You won this time. I will admit. You have gotten better." Sasuke said. Naruto grabbed his hand and helped him up. People didn't understand why they insulted each other yet were friends. It was their way of showing their affection. Naruto noticed Mercedes turning away, blushing. Naruto didn't mind this development. She was beautiful, kind to others, and always treated those around her with compassion and respect. It was an interesting development considering age Gap she never saw Sasuke in the light that she sees him now considering she was close to being a woman while he was still a preteen boy.
Though Naruto would never say it out loud, he found her beautiful, but it was a different kind of beauty than the way he looked at Hinata, Dorothea and Ingrid. It was the kind of beauty he saw in a kind and gentle soul, someone that he was glad that had Hinata's back speaking of Hinata she passed by Naruto they stood in silence he wanted to say something to her they were away from Konoha for crying out loud.
"Hi," Naruto said nervously.
"Hi, Naruto-kun," Hinata replied. The two said nothing. Why was it so damn difficult to approach her?
This was not unnoticed by his friends, especially Dorothea and Ingrid.
Dorothea noticed Hinata was eyeing Naruto and Naruto is eyeing Hinata it was so annoying because obvious it was Ingrid was also looking at them.
"Are you sure we should be interfering with their affairs?"ask Ingrid not understanding why they should be getting involved in the affairs of their friends.
"Oh so you like to take advantage of the opportunity to take Naru for yourself?"Dorothea joked.
Ingrid was blushing she thought it was so cute when she did that obviously she developed a crush you have to be blind as a bat not to notice it.
"Just admit that you like him it's not so bad he's handsome he's good looking and he's not like those insufferable nobles you and Hinaa excluded."Dorothea said but then Ingrid shot back.
"Dorothea don't give me that nonsense you like Naruto as well don't deny it."Ingrid said which caused Dorothea's cheeks to turn pink that was not what she expected she didn't expect to have her ex-girlfriend turn the tables on her.
"Well it is a little awkward but I do like Hinaa as well." Dorothea said which caused Ingrid to roll her eyes.
"Are you serious?."Ingrid said annoyed that she was joking but she wasn't she was serious.
"If you've been around Hinaa you would know why she is so cute but she's also kind and considerate to others."Dorothea said looking at Hinata who was conversing with Mercedes.
"Maybe I will meet Hinata if you will shut up about it."Ingrid said.
"It would be nice if we're all friends who knows something special may happen if the four of us."Dorothea didn't have a chance to finish as Ingrid lightly punched her on the shoulder.
"Don't be ridiculous a four-way relationship come on."Ingrid said not liking the joke.
"Well whatever we want to admit it or not Naruto and Hinaa like each other and I think we should be good friends to them by pushing for them to talk."Dorothea said.
"What if I don't want to what if I want Naruto to myself?"asked Ingrid crossing her arms.
"I highly doubt you would do that it's not in your character Ingrid we both know that."Dorothea said
"you can make a move on Naruto right now if you wanted to why don't you?"asked Ingrid flipping it on her.
Dorothea didn't even know how she would even approach Naruto if Hinata she didn't want to ruin whatever friendship she has with her if she were to try to pursue him she likes him he makes her laugh even though she doesn't know him that well it's only been a few weeks but she would like to be friendly with Hinata as well.
"Come on Ingrid, let's help them the two of us you push Naru to talk to Hinaa. I will push Hinaa to talk to Naru." Dorothea said, trying to get Ingrid to help.
"I don't know how I let you talk me into this, Dorothea. Fine, I'll help because Naruto is our friend, as long as you live up to your end of the bargain," Ingrid said.
"Okay, it's settled. The next free day, I will be hanging out with Hina, and then you will be hanging out with Naru, and we will run into each other, letting the both of them take care of the rest," Dorothea said deviously.
"I don't know if I like the idea of being a matchmaker," Ingrid said, scratching her head from behind.
"Well, it's driving me crazy seeing those two look at each other, not saying anything. Well, we won't have any of that, will we?" Dorothea said.
"I don't know about this," Ingrid said skeptically.
"It will work. Trust me," Dorothea said with a reassuring smile.
"I hope so. I'll have to hide in my room for the rest of my life if it backfires," Ingrid said with embarrassment.
Before they could say anymore, Naruto approached them.
"Ingrid Chan, Dorothea Chan, are you planning something?" Naruto asked. Dorothea would play dumb.
"Actually, no. You know, it would be nice if we can invite Hinaa to join us sometime," Dorothea said, not realizing she talked about Hinata.
"I wouldn't mind. In fact, it would be great," Naruto said, smiling.
"Great. How about tomorrow? We all hang out. It gives us all a chance to get acquainted, and Ingrid Chan gets to meet Hinata. It would be amazing," Naruto said with a boyish grin. Dorothea couldn't believe how easily this shifted. Well, they would talk even if the four of them were together.
"I got an amazing idea, Ingrid Chan. Since you haven't spoken to Hinata yet, why don't you meet her tonight?" Naruto said, which caused Ingrid to look at him in surprise.
"You know what that wouldn't be such a bad idea what do you think Ingrid?"said Dorothea she was put on the spot Dorothea knew Ingrid couldn't say no.
"Sure I wouldn't mind."Ingrid said nervously.
"Perfect," Naruto said boyishly. She had no idea how she managed to let Naruto talk them into this.
When Naruto was out of earshot, Ingrid spoke.
"I have to talk to her now. He'll know I didn't if I see him tomorrow and he asks me about it," Ingrid sighed.
"Come on, don't be like that. Hinata is one of the sweetest people you'll ever meet. Trust me, you won't regret meeting her," Dorothea said.
"Okay, if you say so. I just don't want us disliking each other because we like the same guy," Ingrid said.
"She wouldn't ever be that shallow. I make no secret that I like Naruto. Trust me on this, Ingrid," Dorothea said.
"Okay, I might as well do it right now," Ingrid said, leaving Dorothea alone. She was confident things would turn out well, and by tomorrow, they would have another girl in their group. Little did she know how this would change her relationship with Ingrid, Naruto, and Hinata.
Annette was getting annoyed with Sasuke, he was always looking at Mercedes, eyeing her almost every day, yet he wouldn't do anything; it had to stop. Her boyfriend, Felix, was getting irritated as well, along with Sylvain; even Dimitri was at his wit's end. "Sasuke, how long are you going to put this off?" asked Dimitri, now getting annoyed.
"You're acting just like Naruto! I mean, God! Just talk to her." said Felix, irritated with Sasuke having cold feet.
"We have a work assignment we have to do. I can't just go around asking for a casual conversation."
Sasuke said, trying to come up with another excuse like he did yesterday and the day before that and the day before that.
"If I'm going to be honest with you, Sasuke, you're acting like a shy boy reluctant to talk to his crush. Come on; it can't be that difficult." Sylvain said to his classmate.
"Sasuke, I've known Mercie for years; just talk to her. What are you afraid of?" She asked her friend. He took a deep breath; it was difficult for him to be open. She could tell whatever happened in his past made it difficult for him to connect with others. The fact that he was even willing to be around her and her boyfriend at all, along with her other friends, was a miracle.
"I don't know what to say to her", Sasuke admitted embarrassedly. The guys at the table laughed at such ridiculousness.
"Oh, come on, Sasuke! Grow some balls and just talk to her. Have a simple conversation about whatever. Stop getting cold feet; you're starting to remind me of Naruto, and it's pissing me off." said Felix, who had seen Naruto's reaction towards Hinata too many times to count and even Ingrid.
Rather than rebuking anything they said, Sasuke left the table and headed to the cathedral where Mercedes was headed.
"That might have been a little harsh," said Dimitri, not really sure if that was the right approach.
"Someone had to say it; it was driving me crazy, seeing him mope and acting like some depressed love sick puppy." Said Sylvain sick of seeing Sasuke and Mercedes not talking
Annette looks where Sasuke is headed and wishes her friend good luck. She resumes her chat with her friends before she studies for the night. She will know one way or another if Sasuke truly talked to Mercedes or if he caught cold feet like he has been doing for the past few weeks since laying eyes on her.
The cathedral was quieter than usual. She admired the architecture; it was over a thousand years old, yet it looked almost as good as new. Mercedes wondered how such a place was built. It fascinated her, but that wasn't what was on her mind.
Mercedes was praying to the goddess. She had no idea what to say. It had been weeks since she had been reunited with two childhood friends she met when she stayed in Konoha for a year. Hinata, whom she met about two years before she met Annette, helped her when she was struggling with her confidence. She remembered all the things they did together. Hinata's father didn't approve of Mercedes because he felt she was beneath Hinata's station. The other friend was difficult to talk to. The last time she saw Sasuke, when they departed five years ago, he was 13 years old. She remembered him as a boy, and being around him felt awkward. She didn't want Sasuke to get the wrong impression that she was embarrassed by him, but her feelings were a mess.
She heard footsteps behind her. She looked and saw her friend. They barely exchanged words. It was Sasuke. She took a deep breath. Now she would talk to him. It had only been a few weeks, and she didn't want to give him a mixed message.
"Mercie, is this a bad time?" Sasuke asked as he walked next to her.
"No, I was done praying," Mercedes replied.
She sat down at the bench while Sasuke sat next to her. There was a silence. What does she say to him after all these years?
"You kept the necklace I made. I'm glad," Sasuke said, referring to the necklace with the symbol of a blossom flower. She had treasured it. It was one of her most sacred possessions. She never told her mother who made it for her. Her mother wouldn't have approved of a twelve-year-old boy giving her a gift for her birthday. She kept it a secret and basically told her it was a friend—a dear friend—that made it. It wasn't too far off, but seeing him, she had no idea what to say.
"You still have the necklace I made for you. I'm glad you didn't forget me," Mercedes said. There was an awkward silence.
"I can never forget you," Sasuke replied. How does she respond to that? She has no idea.
"It's been five years, but for me, it feels much longer. How are you doing?" Sasuke asked.
"I've made new friends like Annette. I have a new home in Faerghus. I went to the Academy of Sorcery. So much has happened in the past five years. I wouldn't be able to explain it all without it taking days," Mercedes decided to ask Sasuke a question of her own. "What about you, Sasuke? What have you been doing for the past five years? Have you found peace?" she asked, referring to his path to revenge. Did he avenge his family?
"No, I haven't. I've been focusing on training, training, and more training. The only thing I've been focusing on is getting stronger, strong enough to finally kill the bastard that destroyed my family and clan," Sasuke said. It made her sad knowing that he hasn't known any peace.
"When you were in Konoha, I felt like I had someone to come home to. I haven't known that peace since you left," Sasuke said, looking at her with a sad look.
"I'm sorry," Mercedes said, feeling terrible for leaving him.
"It's not your fault. You have a home here. I can't expect you to stay for my sake," Sasuke said with a sad smile.
"I missed you. I really mean that. You were one of the few people who saw me as I am. You never even asked about my crest once. I'm glad to finally see you again. I hope we could still be friends," Mercedes said, looking at the friend she left five years ago. Sasuke had that same sad smile before he responded.
"I missed you, too, more than you know," Sasuke said.
"Please tell me everything you can. Start from the beginning," Mercedes said.
"Are you sure? It'll be mostly boring stuff like training, training, and more training. Are you sure you want to hear about that?" Sasuke asked.
"Of course. I want to know what you've been doing for the past five years. I want to get to know you again," Sasuke smiled warmly.
"I would, too," Sasuke replied.
He explained what he had been doing for the past five years. She knew it was only on the surface, but that didn't matter to her. If he told her about the training he had done, all the missions he went on, and all the fights he got into with Naruto, she was happy to be in his presence again. But something had changed. What was this feeling she was having?
She put it aside for now. No, he was a friend. It was probably nothing.
Ingrid didn't know how to approach Hinata. She was put on the spot by both Naruto and Dorothea. She didn't want to look like a liar; she wanted to do it when she was alone. Where she and Hinata can have privacy. She went to her dorm and knocked gently. She heard someone get up and then saw it was Hinata. She was surprised to see her.
"Ingrid San, what are you doing at this hour?"Hinata asked her politely.
"I wanted us to talk if that's not too much trouble."Hinata closed the door and she heard her put on her shoes. She got out of her door.
"Sure, where to?"she asked Ingrid.
"To the stables. I mean, I have to help my Pegasus. She gets really cranky when I don't groom her, and I figured since I'm doing that, we could both talk while I'm doing it. I hope I'm not inconveniencing you, lady Hinata."Hinata shook her head.
"You're not doing anything wrong, Ingrid San. Please, you don't need to be so formal with me. Just call me Hinata."She requested.
They got to the stables her Pegasus was happy to see her.
"There girl I brought a guest if you don't mind."Hinata looked at her Pegasus in amazement.
"She's beautiful. I've never seen a pegasus up close before,"Hinata said amazed.
"Thank you the thing about Pegasus and their riders, they are our partners for life. What happens to one affects the other"she knew this wasn't common knowledge to those who weren't from Fodlan.
"What's her name?"Hinata asked Ingrid.
"Her name is Grian"Hinata couldn't help but marvel at the name.
"such a fitting name for such a beautiful Pegasus"Ingrid was impressed that Hinata had knowledge about the meaning of the name.
"I got a question what does your name mean?"Ingrid asked her.
"My name means Sun"Ingrid felt like it was a coincidence or maybe it wasn't both her Pegasus and Hinata were both represented the Sun.
"wow whoever named you that must have thought very highly of you and loved you very much"she saw Hinata smile sadly.
"My mother was very adamant about naming me after the Sun. Everyone thought it wasn't a fitting name for me at the time. Especially my father, he was disgusted that a failure like me was named after the Sun.
"This caught Ingrid off guard. How can anyone say that Hinata was a failure? She was smart, her grades are almost perfect when it came to her fighting ability, she was almost unmatched. How was she a failure?
"I find that hard to believe that you're a failure"Hinata pet her Pegasus she liked Hinata she felt comfortable. She never felt comfortable; it was said those with a pure heart were able to be understood by Pegasus even if they're not their Rider.
"you're everything, I'm not Ingrid San. I could see why Naruto Kun likes you."That was the topic she was dreading. She was hoping she wouldn't have to deal with it so soon Hinata seemed to be such a nice person.
"Yes, he's amazing. There's nobody that has inspired me as much as him compared to him. I'm nothing.
"It all made sense to Ingrid now why Hinata wouldn't approach Naruto. She didn't feel worthy. The truth was, Ingrid didn't either; she felt more conflicted which she sees in those eyes she was in love with Naruto this wasn't a simple crush.
Things were silent between them. Whatever was said next would determine if they would have friendly or unfriendly relations.
"I like you, Ingrid san. I really do. I hope we can be friends."
Hearing those words caused her to be conflicted. It was much easier disliking someone when she never spoke to them. She couldn't bring herself, though, to dislike Hinata. Talking to her, she was like an angel—nobody could be friends with Mercedes unless they were a good person, and Hinata was that person.
She couldn't help it; she understood why Dorothea liked her as well, but seeing her up close, she was beautiful. It was difficult for her not to admire her. She had seen her before and always known she was beautiful, but seeing her up close did her no justice. There was only one other woman who could compare to Hinata, and she dare not think about her due to how their relationship ended. She did not want the bitterness of their breakup to ruin her friendship with Dorothea; she buried those feelings deep into her heart and mind.
She had to respond quickly so as not to send Hinata the wrong message.
"I like you too, Hinata, and I would like to be your friend as well."She felt her cheeks turn red. Hinata also felt the same way. What was this feeling? She didn't care to fight it at the moment.
"I was wondering if you would like to spar tomorrow?"asked Ingrid.
"I would love to Ingrid San,"Hinata replied.
"Then meet me tomorrow at the Blue Lions sparring ring after class."Ingrid said Hinata her eyes lit up at the very idea of fighting her in a sparring match it'd be a way to get to know her and her country's traditions the more you spare with someone the more you know them. She was eager to test it. Hinata maybe a foreigner but she wondered if it would work on her.
"See you tomorrow,"Hinata said.
"See you tomorrow and may the best woman win."Ingrid said as she turned her back on Hinata.
Naruto and Dorothea did not expect to see Hinata and Ingrid go into the Blue Lions' sparring arena. This was not what Naruto had in mind when he told Ingrid to meet Hinata last night. He was hoping nothing bad would happen. Considering the abruptness of them both entering the arena worried him.
Dorothea was worried as well, considering it was her idea for them all to be friends. Naruto had no idea what to say to reassure her.
"I wouldn't worry. This is a friendly sparring match," said Dimitri, who just walked where Naruto and Dorothea were.
"Do you know her, Dimitri?" asked Naruto.
"You could say that. Me and her go back 7 years." This surprised Naruto and Dorothea.
"You met Hinaa 7 years ago?" Dorothea asked in disbelief.
"Yes, but that would take too long to explain. Perhaps another time," Dimitri said, as they both watched the sparring match begin.
Both of them circled the arena. Both were reluctant to make the first move. Naruto had no idea who could win this one. It was too close to call. Hinata had a determined look on her face, so did Ingrid. They both wanted to make a good impression. Hinata made the first move. She tried to strike at Ingrid's wrist to disarm her, but Ingrid managed to counter by hitting Hinata on her right hand. That hurt, Naruto thought, but Hinata didn't show she was in pain.
Hinata retreated. She went towards Ingrid's ribs. Ingrid was not able to counter as she struck hard. Ingrid was knocked back, completely caught by surprise. Dorothea had a worried look, as did Naruto. He hoped something did not happen last night that would cause them to have such a look.
They were both breathing heavily before Ingrid made another move. She struck at Hinata's feet. Hinata moved out of the way gracefully. Everyone was surprised. Every time Ingrid was involved in a duel with anyone besides her friends and Dimitri, the battle usually lasted under a minute. Naruto couldn't believe it. This was almost 2 minutes. Neither one of them showed any signs of backing down.
Ingrid struck at Hinata horizontally. Hinata barely was able to dodge the technique. She back flipped a few feet away. The spectators were increasing. They were whispering. Nobody had seen a duel this intense before. Naruto couldn't cheer for either one of them. If he did, it would hurt one of the girls' feelings.
"What the hell is going on? Ingrid's never had a fight last this long," said Felix, looking at the match with interest.
"Hinata is a strong opponent. She's not a joke," Naruto said, as if to answer an obvious question to him.
"I could clearly see that," said Felix.
"Who do you think is going to win?" asked the redhead, Sylvain. Naruto had no idea. The fight could go either way. Ingrid and Hinata were equally matched.
"It can go either way, though I'm leaning more towards Hinata-san," said Sasuke, who was watching the match with interest. Mercedes had a worried look on her face.
"I know there's reasons for having these sparring matches, but it still doesn't make me comfortable watching them," said Mercedes.
"Don't worry. Dimitri will end the match before they put each other in the infirmary," Sasuke said, to reassure his friend. Naruto couldn't help but see it in Sasuke's eyes. He wouldn't say anything, but he knew that his feelings for her were much more than friendship.
Both Ingrid and Hinata were sweating. The match was going to reach its conclusion. Hinata moved swiftly. Ingrid was not too far behind. Both girls were so fast that it was difficult for those who have not had experience with these kinds of sparring matches to keep up. Naruto could see one thing for sure. Whoever landed the next blow would win the match. Ingrid was about to strike at Hinata's shoulder, but Hinata was one second faster and struck at her chest. Ingrid fell down on her butt, and the match was over.
"Damn, that was a workout," Hinata said in disbelief that she had won.
Ingrid got up and smiled.
"I've never had a match this intense," Ingrid said, breathing heavily. She had never had an intense workout like this before, with anyone. Hinata almost forgot where she was at.
"You two could have severely hurt each other," Mercedes said as she went to check if they were both okay.
"I'm fine, Mercie Chan," Hinata said, trying to reassure her friend.
"I still am worried, though. That was reckless of both of you to do," Mercedes said scoldingly.
"You worry too much. We're fine, as you can see. We haven't severely injured each other to the point where we have to go to the infirmary," Ingrid said, downplaying the injuries that they both had.
"Why did you two do it anyway?" Naruto asked, which caused Hinata to almost flinch.
"In my country's culture, the more you spar with someone, the more you know them. I wanted to see if it would apply to someone like Hinata," Ingrid answered. Hinata couldn't help but feel like, by that sparring match, even by a little bit, she felt like she understood Ingrid. She was an honorable woman who greatly valued honesty and integrity. The one thing now that perplexed Hinata was why Ingrid desired to spar a lot with people. And the more she did back home, the more she felt like she knew them, like her cousin Neji and Naruto, whenever she had a chance to spar with him.
"I never knew that," Naruto said, now intrigued.
"Could this explain why you and Sasuke know each other?" Ingrid asked, now interested in learning more.
"Yeah, me and Sasuke sparred all the time. I guess you could say the more you spar with someone, the more you get to know them, but it heavily depends on the bond you share with the person you spar with," Naruto admitted, not thinking about it. Hinata was nervous.
"Hmm, I was wondering, Hinata. Do you think we could talk privately somewhere?" Naruto asked her nervously.
"Of course, Naruto-kun," Hinata said. Naruto smiled. Naruto and Hinata walked out of the sparring arena. Hinata was wondering where Naruto was taking her.
They were on the bridge between the cathedral and the other part of the monastery. Why did Naruto choose this spot?
"It's beautiful, isn't it?" Naruto asked her.
"It is, though for some reason it's more beautiful than usual. I've never seen the sunset from this spot." She wondered what Naruto was thinking. What was he thinking?
"I'm sorry, Hinata. I owe you an apology. We haven't spoken to each other since we got here. I feel like I've been a jerk to you. You don't deserve it." Hinata didn't agree with Naruto; she didn't have any idea how to approach him now that there were no obstacles in her way.
"It's overwhelming, all these new people. I would never have the freedom to be friends with the people I want back home." Hinata said, remembering the harsh words of her father about not being friends with low-class shinobi or civilians. She was amazed she managed to maintain her friendship with Mercedes in the year she was in Konoha.
"Yeah, that asshole father of yours isn't around. That's definitely a relief." Naruto said contentiously.
"I've heard about you from Dorothea-san." Hinata said, causing Naruto to blush.
"I never expected for someone like her to be friends with me. It would never happen back home." Naruto said.
"Dorothea-san is quite someone. I admire her." Hinata confessed.
"Ingrid-chan, she's fun to hang out with. I think you would like her." Naruto said. She couldn't help but agree with him. There was something about her that she liked, even though they had only exchanged a limited amount of words towards each other.
"I wouldn't mind being her friend. After all, she is Dorothea, Ann-chan, and Mercie-chan's friend as well." Hinata said.
Naruto was nervous. He obviously wanted to talk about something else other than the friends they had made.
"I'm so nervous right now." Naruto said. Uncharacteristic of the friend that she had known for all these years, he was never this nervous around her.
"Ever since coming here, I feel like I have an opportunity I would never have back home because nobody would allow it, not even my sensei." Naruto said, which caused Hinata to look at him with confusion, as she had no idea what he was talking about.
"We've been friends for a long time, Hinata. I..." Naruto was struggling to get the words out. She was wondering what Naruto was trying to say.
"For years, I..." Naruto again was trying to get the words out. Why was Naruto struggling? What was wrong with him? Hinata was confused. This was not like Naruto at all.
"I really like you, and I was wondering if you'd like to go out with me." Naruto said, blushing. Hinata was as red as he was.
"There's nobody to stop us, but I will understand if you..." Hinata didn't get a chance to let him finish, as she kissed him. She felt bolder, thanks to classmates giving her the confidence boost she needed. She would not have had this courage a month ago. She felt Naruto's hands on her back as he kissed her more intensely. His lips were not too rough nor were they soft. It didn't compare to anything in her wildest imagination about what her first kiss would feel like. They pulled away, Naruto smiling at Hinata.
"This is a romantic spot you chose, Naruto-kun," Hinata said with a smile.
"It doesn't compare to you, my Hime," Naruto said affectionately.
"You're so sweet, Naruto-kun," Hinata said as she buried her face in his chest.
"Do you think we can stay here a little bit longer?" Hinata asked her boyfriend.
"Anything for you," Naruto replied. They watched the sunset together— the first of many to come. Hinata felt happier than she ever had in her life. Although there was more she wanted, for now, she was content with this moment, away from judging eyes. All that mattered at that moment was Naruto and the peace she felt.
Dorothea felt accomplished. She had helped her friends. It had only been a few weeks, and she managed to do what others could not. She should pat herself on the back—if she didn't feel something beating in her heart. What was it? She did not indulge for long; Ingrid was by her side, watching the scene in front of them, along with Mercedes, who had a happy smile on her face, and Sasuke.
"About damn time," Sasuke said, grinning.
"What do you mean?" asked Ingrid. Sasuke shrugged.
"The idiot has liked her for so long; you have to be as blind as a bat not to notice it," Sasuke said, referring to Naruto.
"Don't forget she likes him too, Sasuke-kun," Mercedes reminded him.
"I know," Sasuke replied.
"I mean to ask, are you two—?" Dorothea didn't get a chance to finish as they both turned away.
"We're just friends," they both said at the same time.
"We should get out of here before they notice we're watching them," said Ingrid. They left, not wanting to be noticed by their friends. Dorothea couldn't help but think about what it would be like to have someone like Naruto in her life—someone who would love her, protect her, and make her feel loved and wanted. She looked at Ingrid. It may have been almost two years, but the pain of their breakup still hadn't gone away. They were friends, but the memory of their breakup lingered.
Would she be lucky to find love in the arms of anyone? Would she have to marry someone for money instead of love? She put that thought aside. Ridiculous—Naruto and Hinata were her friends; she should be happy for them. But she couldn't help but feel jealous, in a way, of what they had and what she would want to have. She didn't like this feeling.
Naruto was escorting her to her quarters; she was holding his hand the entire time. She couldn't believe it. In 2 weeks, she arrived at the monastery, and Naruto became her boyfriend. She felt like she was in a dream. She didn't want to wake up if it was. She tried to do many different things, but she had no idea how she would do it. What would she do on their first date? Perhaps it should be something simple. She thought it was their first time, but still, she wanted to make it special.
"How about lunch tomorrow Hinata Hime?"Naruto asked.
"I wouldn't mind something simple on our first date," Hinata said.
"Okay, we'll just eat lunch. I'll see you tomorrow, near the cafeteria" Naruto said as he kissed her and then left.
When she closed her door, she almost squealed girlishly. Everything that she wanted had come to pass. She was eager to go out tomorrow. She didn't know what to dress, and many different things were occupying her mind: her new friends that she had made and the Black Eagles. Marianne Von Edmond, the friend she had made, shares a few words. Her childhood friends Edelgard, Dimitri, and Mercedes. She was happy that she was away from home, far away from what she considers a prison her mother believed her home of prison. When she thought of her mother, she felt sadness.
The memories of her looking longingly in the direction of a Faraway land, she couldn't help but think, did her mother love another man before she was forced to marry her father? She did not know much she wanted to know, but who would tell her? Despite the happiness that she experienced, she can't help but feel sad her mother deserved it. It wasn't fair. She didn't want to feel sad, but she did.
She didn't want to show this in front of Naruto. She wouldn't come to him on their first date together with a sad look on her face. No, she would bury her feelings for now and enjoy the moment that she had an experience and will experience tomorrow.
I planted the seeds for Dorothea to fall in love with Naruto in this chapter specifically because, when I look back at the original version of how she was portrayed prior to them being in a relationship, she was kind of a bitch. That doesn't sit well with me because Dorothea is one of my favorite characters in Fire Emblem: Three Houses and Three Hopes. I've also planted the early seeds of Ingrid falling in love with Naruto as well. I wanted to lay the groundwork early on so it's not abrupt when it happens. Some may not think so or care, but I do.
Additionally, I've planted the seeds for Ingrid eventually falling for Hinata in this chapter. There are other things I've done differently; Sasuke and Mercedes' relationship is that of close friends. I wanted to create this dynamic to differentiate their relationship from the others, as they are my favorite ship. If you want to understand why, read the original version with their scenes.
Anyway, for those who've read the original, I hope you're enjoying this new version. For those who don't care about spoilers and are reading this, I hope you're enjoying the story as well, and please give feedback!