For those who read the original, I am sorry for discontinuing the story. I wanted to revise all the chapters I've been working on up until this point and, in some instances, rearrange the order of events. The general story is going to be the same for the most part; any chapters I've already written will eventually be released in this new version, but they will not be released in the original.
The amount of changes I wanted to make would be too big for me to simply go back to the original to revise those chapters. This gives me a chance to fix as many of the grammar errors that currently exist as possible. I don't know if I'll be able to remove all of them, but I hope that this new version you're reading will be superior to the original. The original will never go away; it's staying. If you want to go back to read the original version, it's always going to be there.
Anyway, now that I know where the story is generally going, there are some errors that I would like to remove so I don't run into a George Lucas situation with spoiler Dimitri and Hinata, if you catch my meaning.
Changes that I've made in this version include removing Naruto's association with Raphael, as it seemed illogical for Naruto to meet Ingrid and Raphael simultaneously. Additionally, I felt that with Dorothea being part of Naruto and Hinata's polygamy, it made more sense for him to encounter both at the same chapter, rather than meeting Dorothea during the second arc.
While it was amusing to trash Sakura, I noticed that in some chapters, her presence slowed down the pace and didn't contribute to the story, so I'm implementing changes early on. In the latest chapters I published in the original, Sakura joined the Black Eagles; in this new version, I'm having that happen right at the start, which means Team 7 will be in three separate houses. However, that doesn't mean Hinata and Sakura will be friends because they won't. This is one of the major changes I've made.
Another significant change involves Sasuke and Mercedes; they met prior to the story beginning. I made this adjustment specifically to enhance their love story, making it more believable rather than them suddenly falling in love within a month.
Also, I altered the timeline. Instead of Byleth appearing in March like the original version of the story he appears in April were it happens in the games's canon, which complicated the timeline. Some story arcs will be rearranged for better pacing. So, you'll get a lot of new material in this revision; some chapters might not see much change at all, depending on how I feel they need to change.
Anyway, I hope you enjoy it! For those reading this for the first time, you can ignore the note or read the original version and compare the two.
chapter 1 transfer students
Naruto couldn't believe his luck when he was chosen for the program to be a student in a foreign land. It was an opportunity of a lifetime, an opportunity to get even more training and education. It would help him in his goal. He looked at the Kage monument, which he had seen almost every day for the past 17 years. He wouldn't be seeing it again for a year. It felt strange to leave home for longer than a few weeks on a mission.
Learning the language from Fódlan was a challenge, but it was required for all who graduated from the academy in order to be screened for candidacy. He was surprised that he was allowed to even come, due to his grades. The idea was exciting and scary: an unknown place with unknown people in an unknown culture. What kind of people would he meet?
One thing that he was nervous about the most was what he had to go a whole year without seeing Hinata? Oh, when he thinks of her, he feels depressed. She's so out of his league. She was everything he ever wanted in a woman: cute, beautiful, kind, and polite, even to her worst enemies.
She was like an angel to him. She was perfect, but everyone thought it was Sakura, which made him want to punch himself forever, faking that he ever had a crush on her. The truth be told, he couldn't stand her, but he wasn't going to reveal that he had to keep up the facade at least until he actually had a girlfriend, hopefully, Hinata would be that person.
The only person who was able to see through his facade was was a girl that he had met six years ago named Mercedes Von Martritz, who took refuge in Konoha for a year. He couldn't believe it has been that long since he had last seen her he did remember that Hinata and her were friends. Of course, he smiles when he thinks about Sasuke and his reaction towards her, those times he remembers fondly. He wondered if he and Sasuke would meet her again in the monastery.
Before he left for a year, he wanted to have his favorite food one last time. He didn't have much money left, but he wouldn't need it where he was going anyway. He went to his favorite Ramen shop, Ichiran, and the man and his daughter were happy to see him.
"Naruto my boy, I've heard you're going to leave us for a year. It's a shame; my favorite customer, I'm going to miss you." Teuchi said, sad to see Naruto go. He was one of the few people who was kind to him and didn't treat him horribly like most of the village did. When Naruto thought about it, he was probably the closest person he had to a father, but he wouldn't tell him that; it would make things awkward.
"Naruto, I'm glad I get to see you before you leave," said Ayame, sad to see him go.
"I'm going to miss this place. I'm not going to lie. The food here brings a smile to my face every time I come here."
Naruto said generally, meaning it.
"Tell you what, I'll let you have Ramen. Whatever you want, it's on the house." Teuchi said with his kind smile, which he had known since he was 6 years old.
"I don't know Teuchi. I'm willing to give you all I have. It wouldn't feel right." The old man gave Naruto back his money.
"It's fine. I won't be seeing you for a year, and I can't let my favorite customer leave with a look of sadness. Can I?" he said with a smile as he went to work.
Naruto looked at Hinata, who passed by him, with her team. He wanted to ask her if she wanted to eat with him, but he lacked the courage to even approach her.
"You know you could just ask her, you know," said Ayame.
"I wish you were that easy. I mean, how can I possibly have a chance? I'm a nobody, and she's." He couldn't finish. Ayame made him face her.
"Naruto, you may fool everyone else, but you don't fool me. You've had a crush on her for a very long time. Whatever your feelings towards her, let's just call her the Banshee. I know it's fake. Naruto, you're never going to get her to talk to you or see you if you're not willing to take the first step." She said with some annoyance in her tone.
"Someone as good and pure as her shouldn't be associated with me." Naruto said insecurely.
"No, scratch that. You're a hopeless love-sick boy. Who won't approach the object of his affection. Naruto, listen to me. When you leave this place, nobody in her clan will be watching or will be able to get in your way. Don't waste this chance. She's a good girl. I know she is. There isn't a mean bone in her body. She isn't anything like Sakura." Ayame tried to encourage him.
"I know she's not like her, it's just how can I possibly have a chance with her? She's like the princess of a clan. I'm a clanless nobody; I have no land in my name."
This depressed look on his face wasn't unnoticed by Teuchi, who put Naruto's favorite ramen where Naruto was. Naruto took the chopsticks and started to eat.
Flavor was as good as it usually was, though Naruto wasn't eating it as fast as he wanted to savor it, to remember the flavor of his favorite Ramen.
"My boy, I'll tell you from experience: someone who was once in your position. The only way to win over her is to be a man and tell her your feelings. You don't have to tell her everything right away, but at least ask her out. You probably have a better chance than anyone, considering I don't see her pursuing anyone."
Teuchi said with his old man wisdom.
"When you come back, my boy, I want you to come here with Hinata and any friends you make in that school. I will miss you. I really mean it. You are like the son I never had."
"What do you mean?" Naruto asked him.
"You remind me of someone who used to come here all the time. When I see you, you remind me of her. I can't believe it when I think about it. It's been 17 years."
Naruto didn't know what to say, so he finished eating the ramen that the old man made.
"Thank you for everything you have done for me for all these years. I promise when I return, I will bring back the people precious to me. Any new friends I make, I will bring them here. When we come here next year."
Naruto said with determination on his face.
"I'm looking forward to it, though I would be lying if I didn't indulge in this. If you come here with more than one girlfriend, that would be quite a spectacle. Sasuke's fangirl club wouldn't approve." said Ayame.
The trio laughed, but Naruto knew he had to say goodbye to one person before he left.
"I'll miss you both. Thank you."
Naruto said respectfully, leaving them the money anyway, despite the fact that he didn't need it. He then headed to the academy, where Iruka was.
He went to the school grounds, no matter how much he tried to bury it, this place brought him nothing but bad memories. Bullying, the ridicule from his peers, and how everyone rooted for Sasuke and actively rooted against Naruto. How he narrowly became a ninja.
He looked at the swing, so many memories with this thing, bad ones. It reminded him of the lonely times before he had friends.
He looked at the headband in his hand. This was also a significant object to him. He wouldn't have any need for it where he was going, but it signified something important when he first got it. He felt like he finally had a place to belong.
5 years later, he still feels like he doesn't have a place to belong.
He has friends, sure, but he still feels like he doesn't belong anywhere. Iruka cut the silence, not giving him a chance to indulge for long.
"I didn't expect to see you here, Naruto. Shouldn't you be heading out?" asked Iruka.
"I wanted to see you before I left", Naruto answered.
"You've been given a great honor, Naruto. I was never given this honor. I am proud of you. You've come a long way." Iruka said with pride.
"Do you think I'll ever be truly accepted?" Naruto asked his former instructor.
He was perplexed by Naruto's question. Naruto had serious doubts if he wanted to become the Hokage he desired more. He wanted not just acknowledgment but he wanted something far more important: a family.
"I think you will be patient, Naruto." Iruka said kindly.
He's been told that for the past 5 years, but nothing has changed, but he didn't want to leave Iruka on bad terms.
But before he left, his former instructor said something.
"I promise I will be there at the Eagle and the Lion make me proud." he said to Naruto.
"I will believe it" Naruto said with a genuine smile. He turned his back on his former instructor and headed with his group to Garreg Mach, where his life would change forever.
Sasuke was making sure not to leave anything behind that he would possibly need during his year-long stay in Garreg Mach. He was eager to get going so he could finally get started on actual training. He was sick and tired of staying in the village in between missions. He wanted to do something else, and from what he knew about Garreg Mach, he would get better training there than he would in Konoha; he was eager to get out.
He knew what the village council would want from him. They would want him to choose the Black Eagles because the parasites can only think of themselves and their goals. He cares nothing for the politics of Konoha. He only had one thing that he cared about: avenging his family and clan and restoring his honor.
He looked at all of his possessions. There was nothing left from his clan other than what he had in front of him: his mother's necklace, his father's sword, which was given to him by his grandfather and his father before him. This blade was from the Warring States era. It was hard to believe the sword was as sharp today as it was when it was first forged. Whoever was fortunate enough to use it must have employed techniques that were lost to time.
There were other things he had as well. Mementos were the only thing he had left. This apartment meant nothing to him. The only thing that mattered was the possessions he had and the clothing he was wearing on his back.
The only other thing that he had was a gift that a friend had given him on his 13th birthday before she left Konoha to return to her Homeland. He took a necklace out and looked at it. It was handcrafted. It had a symbol of a flower, a Sakura cherry blossom. He had not forgotten about this gift and had always treated it with care ever since she gave it to him. It was strange for him to think about Mercedes, the girl with whom he had developed a strong bond she lived in Konoha for a year. It was an experience that had changed him. He wondered where she was. Would he ever see her again? He thought it was foolish that his chance of seeing her was remote, so he pushed his thoughts of her out of his mind.
He double-checked to make sure he had everything, then he saw the headband he had left on the table. He decided to leave it; he would have no need for it. He walked out of his apartment and locked the door. He would not be coming here for a year, which would be a long time. Maybe he would never see it again either way; it didn't matter.
There was one place he wanted to visit before he left Konoha. He went to the former Uchiha clan compound, the ruins had not changed in the 10 years since Itachi sacked the compound. Blood stains were everywhere. Nobody dared to move in this place was considered a graveyard. Superstitious individuals considered it haunted. There was truth to it from Sasuke's experience.
Voices of the Dead
Voices of the unrest
Tortured souls that have not found peace
He was once told by his mother that people who have been killed in brutal ways could have their souls trapped in the mortal plane.
He heard the soul screaming in agony, begging Sasuke to end their pain.
"I promise I will avenge our clan." Sasuke said out loud. The voices were cruel and taunting towards Sasuke's decoration. If it weren't for his mental discipline, he would go mad. This was the punishment he felt he deserved if he wasn't weak. They would still be alive.
He dismissed the voices he couldn't appear weak, but spoke again.
"Next time I come here, Itachi will be dead at my feet." Sasuke said as he cut his hand and let blood drip to the ground.
It calmed the voices, though he knew it wouldn't satisfy them if he came back empty-handed. He would never return unless Itachi was dead, and he couldn't face his dead brethren unless his clan was avenged.
He turned his back on the place he once called home and headed for the gates of Konoha. He saw everyone there. Naruto had gotten there a few moments before he did. The Konoha 12 were there, except for three of them, obviously. They were late because they were on a mission.
Kakashi was going to be one of the professors in Garreg Mach. Sasuke hoped he wasn't in the class Kakashi was choosing. Then he felt someone's arms around him, and he wanted to scream in annoyance.
"Oh, Sasuke-kun, we are destined to be together forever and ever." Sasuke rolled his eyes in annoyance, why her?
He ignored her. Sakura reluctantly let him go, knowing that Kakashi wouldn't tolerate it.
"You have been given a great honor that most aren't given. You will be going to the most prestigious School in the world, Garreg Mach. It is a monastery located in a continent in Fódlan. Most are not given this honor. I am one of the few that have been able to transfer to Garreg Mach. Our mission for the next year will be to go to the school and learn everything we can in this program. The students from Fódlan will come back here at this time next year in order to learn more about our continent. This is to foster relations between our Nations. This is an opportunity of a lifetime. Do not waste it.
Kakashi said, looking at Sakura in particular.
"Do you have any questions before we go?" Kakashi asked them.
"Yes, how long will it be before we get there?" Shikimaru, who looked bored, asked.
"It'll take 2 weeks by then. You should be equated with all the happenings there. Your first assignment will be to study the brief history of the monastery itself. If you want a head start, spend your time wisely. Don't waste it. Also, relax on the voyage. Things will be really hectic" Kakashi advised.
Everyone went with Kakashi in single file. Sasuke took one last look at Konoha, the place he had called home for the past 17 years. He didn't know why, but he had a feeling his life would change in some way.
Hinata was on her way to a foreign land when she was brought to the Hokage's office along with the rest of the Konoha 12 to be informed about their upcoming mission for the next year. She never thought that she would be assigned to a mission like this at 17 years of age, when the future heiress of the Hyuga Clan is expected to represent the clan in Garreg Mach, an academy where students from throughout the continent of Fódlan go to learn various skills to become elite warriors or scholars.
None of those things interested Hinata; she never wanted any of them. Her father, along with the members of her clan, didn't give her a choice. She was forced to train as a ninja; she was forced to be one at a young age because that's what was expected of the future head of the clan. She wished she could just be a normal girl, but she knew that wasn't possible in this world. The trip was lonely.
It would be 2 weeks before they would get on shore and when they did everyone looked around them the land was completely different from what they were used to the air was different. She saw men and armor that she did not recognize she was told that they were the knights of Sarios an organization that were followers of the goddess of Sothis she read about Sothis as it was required for all of the konoha 12 to learn about the religion that is prevalent in the continent that they would stay in the next year.
"We have come to escort you to the academy. Come with us."
A man said in the language of Fódlan. Hinata couldn't tell the man's age due to him wearing a helmet. There are others with him, though she didn't pay attention to them. Her peers were walking with her. She was wondering what they were thinking, especially with Naruto. Then she heard Naruto speak to Sasuke.
"Wow, this scenery is nothing like we would see back in our home continent."
Naruto said to Sasuke.
"Whatever, it's nothing special."Sasuke said feigning indifference.
Sakura was grabbing Sasuke's arm and forcing herself on him. Hinata wanted to simply slap Sakura so she would shut up. She always found her to be annoying and she doesn't understand what Naruto sees in her.
"Can you go one day without talking about Sasuke Sakura for God's sake, why are you even a ninja to begin with?" Ino said irritated with Sakura's fangirling.
"Fuck you Ino you're just jealous because Sasuke Kun doesn't like you"Sakura acting like a child. She doesn't know what Konoha was thinking of placing her in this program. She's only here because of Sasuke she will not join a house that has her even if Naruto's there she draws the line she cannot stand Sakura even if she won't voice her disdain for her openly.
"Come on Sakura-chan, there's no need to be like that towards Ino,"Naruto said, trying to ease tensions between the two girls.
"Shut up, retard! I didn't ask for you to butt in!"Sakura shouted at Naruto and punched him, causing Hinata to almost snap Sakura she kept herself under control; she couldn't lose control.
Naruto rubbed his cheek, looked hurt by her comment, and her insult.
"Sakura, why do you do that?"asked Naruto.
"Because you're an idiot and a pathetic failure Konaha should have never made you a ninja with your abysmal grades you're only here because Hokage Sama feels sorry for you,"Sakura said in a spiteful manner.
This made Naruto even more upset. He got up and looked at her as if they were seeing for the first time. He wanted to say something, but he couldn't. He just walked past her. Hinata spotted a tear falling. She would love nothing more than to give him a hug and tell him he'll be okay, but she couldn't. She was scared of doing such a thing.
She looked at Sakura with hatred and spoke loud enough for only herself to hear.
"Naruto-kun deserves to be here more than you banshee",she clenched her fist in a tightly controlled rage. She really wanted to beat Sakura to the inch of her life. She couldn't stand her. She hated her and she had always hated her. The group said nothing for the rest of the trip. Naruto was hurt.
She wished she had the courage to simply speak to him. Why was it so hard? The group continued walking until they finally got to their destination. He didn't look at anything about the officer's academy as she imagined. She'd never seen so much stone in her life. She saw a green-haired woman who looked down on everyone. She looked like someone from this land's equivalent of a priestess, but what she read on the way there made her think she was the archbishop Rhea. All of Konoha 12 were escorted to their quarters when Hinata was about to go into hers, she saw a light blue-haired girl with her hair braided talking to animals. The way she spoke was soft. Not wanting to disturb her, Hinata went into her quarters; it was bigger than her room back at home.
In some ways, Hinata didn't mind this arrangement being away from her family even for a year. Not having to deal with the elders or her father was some form of relief. She was able to sleep without worry. She went to sleep thinking about what she would do for the next year.
Marianne was talking to birds about her day; she just got to Garreg Mach. Her father expects her to find a suitable husband, but she has no interest in finding one. She doesn't want to get close to anyone; she's been this way ever since her parents died. The only person that was able to bring a smile to her face was her friend that she had not seen in 3 years.
She couldn't help but think that the world would be better off without her. One thing she was told by her father she would have done anyway was not tell anyone about her crest. She didn't want anyone to know.
Hilda was her childhood friend. She was going to choose the Golden Deer, but she still wanted to keep her distance, even from her. Earlier she noticed a pale-skinned girl with long dark blue hair. She couldn't make out what color her eyes were. She looked like she was some sort of noble from a foreign land by her dress.
After she was done, she went to her quarters, which were assigned to her, and went to sleep. When she woke up the following day, she was summoned because it was the day that students would choose a house they would go to. Unlike the house leaders, who are from lands where they were born, those who aren't the house leaders are more free to choose.
Even if she were to make a choice for a house, she could change if she wished. If it doesn't fit what she wants to learn, it didn't matter to Marianne what house she was in as long as she can keep her distance as much as possible. She saw the same girl that she saw last night. They were at the hall, which all students who choose houses are required to go to first. Intermingling wasn't something she had in mind, though perhaps the goddess doesn't want to give her what she wants.
"Am I making you feel uncomfortable?"
Asked the girl politely she was the same girl She saw last night she noticed her eyes were not like eyes she's ever seen there with no pupils. Her eyes were lavender in color. Not wanting to be impolite she responded quickly."No, I'm just not comfortable around people" Marianne said, hoping she didn't come off as rude.
"I'm the same way, so I sat here where you are. There are so many people I don't know in a foreign land. I don't know if I even speak the language right," the girl said softly. "I think you're doing fine. I noticed an accent, but other than that, I can understand you well."Marianne responded politely. The girl smiled warmly at her. "I appreciate that I've been nervous thinking that I'm not speaking the language right." The girl sounded like she had confidence issues, just like she does.
"You don't mind if I ask you your name, do you? We may be classmates. It would be nice to be acquainted, "the girl asked, hoping she would say yes. Not wanting to be rude, she responded.
"Marianne von Edmund," Marianne said, introducing herself by her full name.
"Hinata Hyuga," Hinata responded in turn. She had heard about the Hyuga clan from her mother when she told her about a woman that she befriended in the academy. Unlike Marianne, Marianne's mother wasn't shy or reclusive. It was the opposite of Marianne's mother's friend. She didn't get a chance to learn more about her mother's friend due to her mother's death.
In the continent that she comes from, Konoha, which is what the country is called, she had heard about the clan, but not much is known due to not much information being available in Fódlan.
"What brings you here, Hinata?" Marianne asked.
""We have a program in which we host exchange students from the Konoha 12. They are chosen to enroll in the officer's academy as a way for us to learn about different cultures on the other side of the world and to help improve relations between us," Hinata explained. Marianne was expecting to attend the academy with transfer students from Konoha. This program has been in existence for close to 120 years, dating back to the times of Hashirama Senju and Madara Uchiha, who were among the first students of the transfer program established in the year 1060."Marianne San, what brings you here if you don't mind me asking?"Hinata asked her how much of the truth could she tell her. She decided to tell some of the truth due to her not wanting to be rude.
"I was sent here by my father to study here. I would not have chosen to be here if I could, but I can't disobey my father," she told Hinata Most of the truth, it was not about her seeking out a husband.
"I was also sent here because of my father. I know that feeling only too well,"Hinata said bitterly.
Marianne couldn't help but notice that there were strained relations between Hinata and her father. She didn't want to ask for personal information, so she decided to ask Hinata a question about which house she would choose.
"Have you thought about what class to join?"Marianne asked. It took time for Hinata to provide an answer.
"I don't know it would depend on the leader for me it would depend on what they stand for their ideas. I'm not going to join just anyone if they don't share my values. I won't join their house,"Hinata said as if the discussion was final. "I see I don't particularly know which house to join. I just want to be in a place where I belong"Marianne admitted even if she didn't particularly want to be too social she would at least like to be in an environment where she would be valued as a person.
"I hope you find a place where you belong, Marianne San. I know only too well what that's like"Hinata replied with compassion she understands her in some ways better than she knows.
"I've been meaning to ask you Hinata, why do you call me 'San' at the end of my name? What does it mean?" Marianne asked her. "'San' is an honorific; it's a form of respect by calling you 'San', I'm treating you with respect. It's usually used to refer to someone that you respect or someone that's in a higher position than you. The equivalent here would be 'Miss', 'Mr', or 'Mrs', but it's not exactly the same thing." Hinata answered. Marianne didn't think she deserved to be treated in such a way, but she felt happy that someone thought of her so highly even if they barely had spoken to her. "I don't think I deserve to be treated in that way, but thank you, Hinata." Marianne said sincerely.
"There are other honorifics though it would take a long time to explain them all Kun and Chan are usually used in a more affectionate way though it couldn't be demeaning depending on on its usage."Hinata explained this made sense to Marianne she heard students speaking a language that she could barely grasp and hearing words that she has never heard of in her life.
"What would you call goddess in your language?"Marianne asked Hinata."Megami"Hinata answered.
"If you don't mind, may I ask what house you're from in your homeland?"
Hinata tensed.
"I'm the eldest daughter of the head of the Hyuga clan."She answered, feeling like she had been disrespectful up until this point. She had been too informal with her conversation with her, who was a higher rank by default. She was essentially a princess.
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean any disrespect."Hinata interjected, "Call me Hinata. I don't want to be called by my title."Hinata gently silenced her with a wave of her hand Marianne of all people! She didn't feel like she should, but she talked to her after all. She didn't have to.
"Tell me about yourself, Marianne San. If you're comfortable, I mean it." Hinata asked politely. She had no idea what she could tell about herself.
"I'm not a very interesting person compared to" she wasn't able to finish.
"It's okay if you don't want to. We can talk about anything else if you want." Hinata offered.
"I would like that"
They continued to talk for about an hour. Marianne felt comfortable around Hinata, even though she barely knew her, and she wouldn't mind talking to her more. She felt like she had a connection with her.
It was like being around a kindred spirit; she hopes to choose the same house as she chooses.
Sasuke didn't particularly care to integrate with the other students. He wasn't there to make friends; he was only there for one goal: to get stronger so he could eventually kill Itachi Uchiha. All the students here were just kids, and he saw them as kids who didn't know war. There was a boy with blue hair and a girl with orange hair. The boy was addressing Sasuke. Sasuke didn't want to even bother addressing them.
"So you're the Uchiha we've heard so much about, and that's why we can't have peace now because of these damn annoying fangirls." The blue-haired boy said, clearly annoyed by the loud and screeching noises of all the fangirls who were looking at Sasuke like he was just a piece of meat.
"Come on, Felix, it's not his fault." The orange-haired girl defended him.
"Annette, these fans are annoying. He's only been here for not even a day and they're already making a fuss." Sasuke can relate to their annoyance.
"I wish I could go somewhere without these annoying fangirls. I have no interest in any of them." Sasuke said out loud, not caring if they heard him or not.
"I'd like to spar with you. I've heard great things about you and how you were the prodigy of your class the year you graduated from the academy in Konoha. I want to know if you live up to the hype." Felix said, interested in Sasuke's skills.
"I doubt you'd be able to land a single blow on me." Sasuke continued eating his food.
"Is that a challenge?" Felix asked.
"What do you think?"Sasuke replied, not caring if he pissed him off.
"Felix, I don't think you should challenge him to a duel, especially since he just got here. Sorry about that. Sasuke. Felix is like that with anyone he sees as an interesting opponent to spar with." The girl who looked like Felix's friend.
"Well, it's not often that we meet interesting people, Annette, especially a Uchiha from Konoha." Felix replied
"From the way you carry yourself, you seem interesting. Sasuke said and tried to end the conversation.
"I just have a question, though, if you don't mind me asking Sasuke?" Annette asked him if it would get them both to leave him alone; he would answer it.
"What house will you join?"she asked him out of curiosity.
He didn't know which house he would join; he had never thought about it before when he got here. His only thought was that he would join the house that was the strongest and offered the best training. He decided to be honest with the girl, who didn't do anything to annoy him like Sakura normally does. She respected his boundaries and wasn't a fangirl, which was relieving for him.
"I don't know if it would have to depend on who is the leader of whatever house, what values align the most with mine, and which house would offer me the best training and help me the most with my goals."
This was the most Sasuke would ever tell anyone outside Konoha. He didn't know why he was even bothering telling this girl this.
The Blue Lions have you covered, then, if that's what you desire. Sasuke, we have a very good reputation; you know most of our most elite soldiers and scholars come from them. I think you would like it there.
"Annette said, smiling. Why was she doing that? He couldn't help but say "no"; he couldn't indulge thought he wasn't here to make friends.
Then he felt someone wrap her arm around him and he knew who it was and he cringed. That damn banshee he said to himself.
"Sasuke-kun, it is fate that we're here together. I will choose whatever house you choose," Sakura said, clinging to Sasuke. "Oh great, this annoying girl as if I don't have enough crap to deal with," said a girl with long white hair and purple eyes.
"You're just jealous because Sasuke-kun doesn't pay attention to you," said Sakura, snarling at the white-haired girl.
"I can easily point out that of all the transfer students here, you are the most annoying and obnoxious," the girl replied, smiling at Sakura's anger.
"Fuck you, bitch," Sakura said, losing her composure completely.
"No need for that, Lysithea. That wasn't necessary," said one of her classmates who was a pink haired girl with pigtails.
"Interesting," Sasuke thought. Despite being younger than he is, Lysithea has quite a backbone and what made it better was that she was not a fan girl.
Sakura left knowing she wasn't welcome. Sasuke was relieved by this girl Lysithea for putting Sakura in her place.
"So you're Sasuke Uchiha, you're quite an interesting person even if you're not someone I would take interest in" Lysithea said, in a way that implied that find him intriguing.
"I find you interesting too, Lysithea San" Sasuke said, meaning it.
"Well, I'm going with my group. I hope she doesn't end up in my class that I choose." Lysithea said as she left Sasuke and his group alone.
"Wow, that's amazing! You don't get compliments like that very often, Sasuke. You should be fortunate." Said Annette, who was amazed at how Sasuke had managed to impress Lysithea.
"Lysithea is a pretty hard worker, younger than most of the other students here, but don't remind her of her age." Annette insisted.
"At least she's not a fangirl." Felix added.
"I won't lie: of all the girls here, she's the one I find most interesting." Sasuke admitted aloud.
"I really hope you choose our class; I think it would be a waste." Annette smiled and said.
"You would certainly make an interesting opponent to spar with." Felix added.
"It's none of my business and I'm not interested, but are you two dating?" Sasuke curiously asked.
"Of course we are." Annette said with a smile, as what they look as if what she was saying was obvious.
Her boyfriend was embarrassed; he turned a light shade of pink, which Sasuke thought was pitiful.
"That girl, though I will admit I don't like her, she's rude and obnoxious." said Felix, voicing his contempt for the annoying banshee. Sasuke agreed.
"I wonder how she will feel about you Sasuke." Annette said dreamily. Sasuke rolled his eyes. Whoever she is, Sasuke doesn't care; he has no interest, especially if she's just another one of those potential fangirls who he's had to deal with for all these years. He can't stand them in his home village, and he certainly can't stand them here. He thinks they're irritating, obnoxious, and annoying. And Sakura represents the worst of them.
Though out of curiosity, he wondered what Naruto was doing.
Naruto was intermingling with other students. He stayed as far away from Sakura as he could. Something about the way she insulted him yesterday set him off. He knew he had no chance with Sakura, but the way she insulted him went too far. He was looking at all the food he had never had before; it looked tasty. There was no ramen, but he was about to grab some food when he saw a brown-haired girl with a hat on her right side. Her eyes were green like emerald, and she was taller than Naruto. Though it was difficult for him not to notice her chest being bigger than most of the girls, he turned away, not wanting her to think he was a pervert.
"I take it you're new here?" asked the brown-haired girl.
"Yeah, I just got here yesterday. I am overwhelmed by the amount of new people that I am seeing," Naruto admitted, feeling embarrassed.
"Are you one of the Konoha transfers?" asked a girl who was shorter than the brown-haired girl. Her hair was braided, reaching down to her back; Naruto couldn't help but find her hair beautiful. Taking a closer look at her face, he found it to be cute and different from the other girl at the table.
"Yes, the usual food that I'm used to eating isn't here. I don't know what to try," Naruto said, feeling embarrassed.
"It's not a problem. Here, I'll help," said the brown-haired girl as she pointed out some recommended foods for Naruto to try. They weren't things he particularly liked, but he didn't want to be rude to the girls who were taking their time to assist him. After selecting his food, he began to eat but soon realized he needed to be careful about how he did so; he didn't want to look foolish, especially in front of the two girls.
"I take it you're Naruto Uzumaki?" asked the blonde-haired girl.
"Oh yes, the one person who didn't think anyone knew who I was," Naruto admitted.
"Word gets around. I must say, you're really handsome," said the brown-haired girl with a seductive smile.
Naruto did not expect to be hit on by this woman. She was attractive, he had to admit. He'd be lying if he said he didn't glance at her. It was difficult for him to concentrate - between a cute blonde-haired girl and a sexually attractive brown-haired one, they were different from Hinata in terms of beauty, sexiness, and cuteness.
"I think you're making our new guest uncomfortable," said the blonde-haired girl.
"Oh, come on, Ingrid! There's no way, where he's from, there aren't girls. that don't find him handsome." The brown-haired girl replied.
"I'm sorry, I'm just not used to girls, other than Hinata, giving me the time of day," Naruto admitted.
"You gotta be kidding me?" said the brown-haired girl in disbelief.
"Don't worry, she's just teasing you, Naruto," Ingrid said.
"No, Ingrid, I really mean it! I think Naruto's kind of cute," the brown-haired girl said, disagreeing.
"Oh, I've been rude up until this point. My name is Dorothea Arnault," Dorothea said with a friendly smile.
"I am Ingrid Brandl Galatea. A pleasure to meet you, Naruto," Ingrid said with a smile.
"It's nice to meet both of you. I didn't think any girls would pay me any mind here," Naruto admitted.
"Why wouldn't they?" asked Dorothea, curious.
"I don't think we should ask something personal on his first day," Ingrid said, sensing Naruto's discomfort.
"I'm just curious what class do you intend to choose?"asked Dorothea out of curiosity.
"I don't really know, I haven't thought about it actually."Naruto admitted.
"I'm choosing Dimitri that's for sure."Ingrid said with full confidence. He's heard some things about Dimitri Alexandre Blaiddyd.
"What about you Dorothea?" Asked Naruto.
"I'm going with Edie." Said Dorothea with full confidence he had a feeling she was referring to Edelgard Von Hresvelg.
"How are you confident with your choices?"asked Naruto curious about what his acquaintances reasons for choosing Dimitri and Edelgard.
Before he could ask a another question, the three house leaders showed up. Naruto looked at the three house leaders. One of them was a girl with white hair and violet eyes. She wore a uniform that had red on her legs and a cape with an eagle sigil. She carried herself with elegance and grace. She was the shortest of the three leaders. From what he heard in the descriptions, she was Edelgard von Hresvelg, the heir to the throne of Adrestia. The way she was presenting herself, she looked like someone you'd have to take seriously. Naruto doesn't know if he would be able to get along with someone like her. He was always told not to judge a book by its cover; perhaps there was more to her than what she was letting on; he was friends with Sasuke after all.
Then the second person he saw in the center was a blonde-haired young man who looked to be the tallest of the three. His skin was light, and he wore a similar uniform as the rest of the students, except it was blue. He had someone who looked like he would be someone you'd get along with on the surface. Naruto could tell there was more to him. He seemed like a nice fellow from what Naruto could tell based on what he had learned, but he could see something darker beneath.
Then he saw the last of the leaders. His skin was darker and complexion and his hair was Brown. He looked from Naruto's perspective to be laid back but he could tell he was someone that was hiding something. For what he heard he seemed to be someone you would want to have a drink with though other than his name there was not much really known about Claude von Regan. He couldn't judge any of the three Lords based on appearances he knew were superficial. He would give all three of the Lord's time but something told him in his gut Claude would be someone he would likely get along with better than the other two.
"It's time for you all to choose your house. Each of you will get a few minutes to talk to the house leaders. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask" said a green-haired man named Seteth.
Earlier, with the house leaders.
Edelgard was heading to the cafeteria along with Dimitri and Claude. She would be talking to the transfer students from Konoha but also from people from her own continent. She couldn't help but wonder if Hinata was among them. She had not seen her childhood friend in seven years. How much had things changed since then? The last time she saw her, she was shy and lacked confidence in herself. Though she wasn't the only one who was friends with Hinata, Dimitri was also thinking the same thing.
"You know these Konoha transfers are going to be interesting this year, an Uchiha, a Hyuga heir, and a mysterious outcast. There's others, but those three are the most interesting to me." said Claude.
The outcast Edelgard knew he was referring to Naruto Uzumaki. She had only seen him once at the Hyuga clan compound with Dimitri and Monica. But she never forgot what he looked like or what his expression was. Something must have made the village hate him, whether it was rational or not, was irrelevant.
"It should be interesting to learn from people of other cultures, which is not something that is given to many people. I think it's a great honor, and I wonder who would choose my class." Dimitri said aloud.
"Who do you hope will choose your class?" asked Claude out of curiosity.
"I don't know it would depend on the person I talked to and what they value. I don't want to let personal relationships get in the way of a friend of mine who is among those transfers."Dimitri said, referring to Hinata.
"It must be tough with so many choices. To be honest, I'm leaning more towards the outcast. If I have to be real with of any of you, I think I would vibe with him the most."
Claude said, referring to Naruto.
"So you would want the person everyone back at his home rejects? That's so like you, Claude."remarked Edelgard.
"Well, I'm pretty sure Naruto Uzumaki isn't a bad person," said Dimitri.
"How can you be sure if you haven't spoken to him?" Edelgard asked him.
"I just have a feeling from what I've seen in the brief time I saw him enter the monastery last night,"Dimitri replied.
"You know what, I wouldn't be surprised if Sasuke Uchiha chose you." Claude said which Edelgard knew he wasn't joking he was serious.
"What makes you say that?"Dimitri asked Claude curiously.
"What I've heard about Sasuke is that he has a stick up his ass, which is why I'm saying I would be surprised if you choose your class."Claude answered
If there's one thing Edelgard hoped for was Sasuke to choose her class. He was strong and he was someone she would like to be able to convince to support her in her cause. Though she couldn't say it out loud.
"Well, we're about to introduce ourselves, so we might as well end this conversation," said Edelgard. They got into their respective positions. Edelgard had a feeling that Sasuke and Hinata's decision would change the fate of many in the next 30 minutes.
Hinata didn't know who to talk to first. Her father only wanted her to join a house that benefited the family the most. She didn't want to choose a house that her father would want; she wanted to choose what house would be right for her. The first leader she spoke to was Claude.
"Wow, we have a cutie here. What's your name?" Claude asked her, as if he had a poker face. It was difficult for her to tell if he was hitting on her or if he was trying to rile her up.
"Hinata Hyuga." She answered politely.
"Oh, you're from one of those famous clans from Konoha. Not much is known about our end, though the look of your eyes tells me you're definitely not someone from around here. That's for sure. I don't know why, but if you don't feel comfortable with the other houses, we're definitely open."
Claude seemed like someone who was charismatic and charming, but something about him seemed off.
"How is it that you know about my clan?" Hinata asked him, generally wanting to learn more about him in case he became a competitor if she chose a different house.
"I don't know much, in fact, there isn't much I know about the continent where you came from. I know that the Uchiha clan was massacred. I know some stuff about the battle with Hashirama and Madara, but I don't know more than that, unfortunately. That's where you come in, or maybe the Uchiha kid will join. Or Naruto. Either way, I like to learn more about the lands outside of Fodlan."Claude finished Hinata couldn't help but be intrigued. knowledge is what he sought; she didn't think there was anything inherently wrong with wanting to know more about the outside world. She too would like to learn about the lands outside of the Land of Fire, but she had to stay guarded. This was a foreign land with a foreign culture and foreign language.
"I hope we get to be more acquainted in the future, Claude-san!" Hinata said. She was done, and she left. She couldn't choose him. She didn't know why, but there was something about him she couldn't trust.
The next was Dimitri; she saw something familiar about him Then he heard him speak.
"It's a pleasure to meet you again, Hinata Hyuga. It's been seven years since we last saw each other. You probably don't remember much, but time has passed." It was difficult to recall due to what had happened to her clan at that time. She shivered at the memory, then she recalled a boy who looked like Dimitri but younger.
"Dimitri, I almost forgot it's been so long. What has it been 7 years?"They both laughed. She recalled a boy that visited the compound along with a girl who had brown hair. Her name was Edelgard along with a red-haired girl named Monica. That summer was one of her most pleasant memories.
"So much has changed since that time. I wish we could catch up, Hinata. Whatever you do, whatever house you choose, I hope we can get reacquainted," Dimitri said with longing. She couldn't help but feel the same way. Dimitri felt like the brother she never had. It seemed ridiculous, but that's how she felt when she was around him.
"It was nice seeing you again, Hinata. It's been too long. Whenever you have a free moment, we should catch up. Edelgard is even here, so it would be like old times," Dimitri said, reminiscing about those days.She recalls the memories of playing with Dimitri and Edelgard when they were children; they played a lot of games together, they would play tag together, even though they couldn't leave the compound, it was a lot of fun that summer. It was one of her most fond memories. Dimitri, Edelgard, and Monica were friends she treasures greatly. They were some of the best times she'd had, but it was also not without its regrets.
"I would like that too Dimitri. I'm happy to see you again."Hinata said she was reluctant to leave but she had to even though Dimitri was an old friend she still had to see the last of the house leaders.
"I'll see you around."Dimitri said happily.
She approached the last of the house leaders and saw a woman she didn't look much older than Hinata; it couldn't be; she remembered having brown hair the last time she saw her; why was it white?
"I didn't think I would see you in a place like this, Hina-chan," Edelgard said to Hinata, standing between them; she was closer to Edelgard; she felt like when they spent that summer together; she was able to tell more of her secrets to her friend than anyone else along with Monica she missed them both greatly and she was happy to see Edelgard again.
"It's nice to see you again, Edel-chan," Hinata said to her friend; but they hadn't seen each other for 7 years.
"I wish we could catch up, but there's only so much time. I have one question: Hinata, what do you value? Do you think people should be able to rise above their station, regardless of their status?" Hinata thought about it; there were many who were in positions that shouldn't be. She hated nepotism and believed people should be able to succeed on their own merits, not based on privilege or class."
"I personally find the idea of nepotism disgusting, and the idea of only being someone of worth because you're from a family disgusts me too."Her old friend nodded in approval.
"I agree; I have to be honest with you. I think you would make a good fit in the Black Eagles. I can see it in your eyes; people don't believe you're worth anything, but I don't agree that you have worked hard to get where you are. I know it you haven't changed even in the seven years since I last saw you. Naruto is the same way; it would be quite shameful if he didn't join our house, but even if he doesn't, I would like for you to be part of it. Hina Chan, you have talent; you just don't see it yet."
The praise she received from her old friend made her feel as if she were acting like a proper lord.
Her father wanted her to join the house that would benefit the Hyuga clan. she recalled that memory a month ago after her 17th birthday.
flashback one month ago the Hyuga clan compound
Hinata wore a white kimono, which was required of her when she was summoned to her father's quarters.
She felt extreme apprehension when she was ever alone with her father. He was filling out paperwork, she wondered what he was doing. Why was she summoned here?"Hinata, you (along with multiple other individuals) are being sent to Garreg Mach, the monastery on the continent of Fodlan. You will represent our clan. You will not disgrace us. At least you can be useful in that." Her father said with a monotonous voice. "Also, the house you will be joining will be the Blue Lions. They are the house that will benefit our clan. I will not have you disobey me in this matter, Hinata. I've already disinherited you. The least you can do is be useful to me and the clan.
She couldn't say anything she wanted so badly to leap across the room and strangle her father, no matter how strong she got, no matter how much she trained, no matter how far she had come, nothing she did was ever good enough.
Couldn't say anything; she was terrified of her father even now at the age of 17.
"Is there anything else you require of me?" Hinata asked, barely able to get the words out.
"Yes, you are to find a suitable husband that will benefit our clan. That is your task, Hinata." Her father dismissed her, and she was escorted out of his chambers. No matter where she goes or what she does, she feels like she can never escape her father's shadow.
The bottled-up rage and hatred she feels for her father over everything he's done; she wishes she could choose her own path in life and not have anyone dictate it to her.
All her life, her father has dictated what she can and can't do with herself, and no matter what she does, it's never enough.
Dimitri is a good guy, but if she were to join the Blue Lions, she should do exactly what her father and the clan want her to do. She's pretty sure there are good people there; she's positive, but she doesn't want to be part of that house; she wants to forge her own path. Then she thinks about Claude and the Golden Deer; he tried to offer, but Claude isn't someone she can completely trust.
There was something off about his smile; it didn't seem real. She wasn't comfortable with someone like that—someone who would keep their secrets guarded, as if they were hiding something sinister about themselves.
Edelgard is offering her a chance for her to find herself on her own merit, no connections to her but for her to make her own choices. why should she do it her father asked he's on the other side of the world he is an the monastery. Why should she make a choice based on what he wants? this was a school to help people become some of the most educated people in the world when it comes to warfare science art and literature etc.
she has an opportunity of a lifetime. She doesn't want to waste it doing what her father wants her to do she doesn't want to fight she doesn't want to be a fighter she would rather choose the path in life she wants not what others want she wants to live by Naruto's example.
"I've made my choice, Edel Chan"
Hinata looked into her old friend's eyes.
"What would that be, Hina Chan?"
Edelgard asked her.
"I'm choosing my own way; I would rather go with the person who believes what I believe. You are that person, Edelgard."The shorter woman nodded in approval.
"Welcome to the Black Eagles, Hinata."
Edelgard said with a warm smile that was reserved for people who were extremely close to her.
She looks at Marianne, the girl who chose the golden deer. There's nothing to stop them from talking in between classes. She saw a kinship with her and she wasn't going to give up on being her friend even if they were in different houses.
After Hinata was done talking with Edelgard, Sasuke was up to talk to the three Lords. He didn't care which house to join; he only wanted the one that benefited him the most when it came to training and getting him closer to kill Itachi. The first of them he talked to was Claude.
"Well, if it isn't the Uchiha I was hoping to talk to." said Claude, with a look on his face that Sasuke didn't trust.
"Unless you have a good reason for me to join your house, don't waste my time." Sasuke said, on the verge of turning his back on him.
"Wow, you definitely have a stick up your ass." Claude remarked.
Whatever Sasuke said, he turned his back on Claude.
He went to Edelgard next. He wondered if she would offer him something better than Claude, who didn't really give him anything.
"I've heard much about you, Sasuke Uchiha."Edelgard said respectfully.
"I'm not here for your flattery. I'm only here for one goal and one goal only."Sasuke said, leaving no room for the subject to change.
"Before you dismiss what I say outright, don't you think people should be able to succeed on their own merit?" Edelgard asked him.
He thought about it: people should be able to succeed because of their own skills and their own hard work, not because of connections. A society based on a meritocracy, which he could tell this is what Edelgard believes in, seems to be extremely flawed. But he didn't really want to have a philosophical debate; her beliefs didn't matter. What he desired was who could provide him with the best training to get his revenge on his clan's murderers.
"Do you believe in meritocracy? How is that going to be any better than the current system we have now?" Sasuke asked, curious.
"There are those in power who do not deserve to be in power, only there because of their connections. Surely you believe people should be able to get there based on their hard work?" Edelgard asked him.
He thought about it, it wasn't so bad, but then he thought about his ultimate goal, the death of Itachi. He doesn't care about this girl's dreams.
"I have only one goal and one goal alone, Edelgard Sama, and you haven't offered me any reason to choose you over the other three leaders."Sasuke said in a cold and detached manner, which shocked Edelgard.
He walked away. He was done talking to her. If there was one thing he saw common between Edelgard and Claude, it was that they didn't try to reach out to him as a human being. The only thing they saw him as was a pawn for their own ends. What he cared about the most was vengeance. He didn't care about Edelgard or Claude's goals, whatever they may be.
The last of the Lords, Dimitri Sasuke senses darkness in him deep in him as if he's hiding something in his past.
"I take it none of the other houses appeal to you, Sasuke?" Dimitri asked him. Cutting through the bullshit, Sasuke didn't mind, it seemed like he knew what Sasuke was thinking.
Not to mention the one thing he hadn't gotten from the other two was Dimitri reaching out. He didn't see ulterior motives from Dimitri like the other two; this was the one that was the most genuine.But before he can make a decision, he had to hear Dimitri out first.
"I have to ask a question Sasuke. How do you feel about the act of violence and how it's committed when and if violence is ever justified?"Dimitri asked him.
Why did he want to know this? There was no harm obviously. Dimitri wanted to know how Sasuke felt about violence. He would give him an honest answer.
"Violence should not be used unless it's a last resort. Self-defense should be the only reason for violence. Using violence for any other purpose is nothing more than sadistic barbarism."Sasuke answered.
"Self-defense, you say? Interesting. That's how I feel as well. I can't trust anyone who commits any act of violence without feeling any sort of remorse for it."Dimitri said as if he were speaking from past experience.
He was more honest than the others He had to admit, though, he didn't reveal much for obvious reasons. He wasn't going to reveal too much to a complete stranger.Honesty is something Sasuke felt Dimitri deserved if he chose his house.
"Personally, I'm here for the house that can give me the best training and give me the best chance of achieving my goals, and from what I've seen, the Blue Lions from your reputation seem to be the best for my goals." Sasuke said honestly.
"The Black eagles are a strong house too. You shouldn't underestimate them,"Dimitri warned.
"Considering how many well-trained fighters you have here I think I would benefit the most in here. I'm not Noble or anything I don't care about that I have one goal and one goal alone it's nothing personal"Sasuke said to Dimitri try not to be rude.
"Well, if you join my house, I hope we can at least be friends, Sasuke. I can see what you're going through. I understand you better than you know."
Dimitri spoke as if he knew what had happened. He couldn't have known, he lives on another continent. "From what I've experienced with members so far, like Felix San, I think I'll fit in just fine here."Sasuke said with confidence.
"Welcome to the Blue Lions Sasuke Uchiha." Sasuke shook Dimitri's hand in a show of respect. He didn't know why, but he felt like Dimitri was someone he could relate to more than the other Lords and the only one that made an attempt to reach out to him as a human being and not have ulterior motive, which is why he chose his house.
Naruto just saw Sasuke finish talking to Dimitri. He clearly chose his house. Naruto had no comment about Sasuke choosing Dimitri; he was curious about what Dimitri was all about. He wanted to hear all of the house leaders out before making a decision because he still wasn't sure which one would be the right one for him.
"Naruto Uzumaki-san. I've heard much about you. I'd like to hear a bit about yourself."
A prince was treating him with respect—more than anyone had ever treated him. Nobody back home even bothered giving him any honorifics that were respectful. There was only one person who gave him an honorific, and she did so affectionately. But here was Dimitri, treating him as an equal, even though he was far below him in station. Naruto had no idea what to say.
"Well, you probably heard from those from my homeland. I wish to be the Hokage of my village." From what he saw on Dimitri's face, there was no mocking look; he seemed to be waiting for him to elaborate.
"You're aiming to be the leader of your nation someday? That's quite a goal. I'd be interested to hear more someday, whether you join my house or not, but I sense there's something more than just being the leader of your nation that you strive for. What is it that you want, Naruto San?"Dimitri asked him.
"I really don't know, honestly. I just want to protect the people who are important to me. That's all I can think of right now."Dimitri looked impressed.
"Well, you have plenty of time to think about that. Having the strength to protect others is a noble goal; it's quite admirable. I hope we can be friends."Dimitri offered his hand as a token of friendship. Naruto couldn't help but like him. He seemed like a good guy.
He went to Edelgard next, who held herself with grace on the surface. She seems arrogant but Naruto knows there's more; however, he couldn't put his finger on it at first. He thought he would get along with her the least, perhaps she's a lot more like Sasuke than he thinks.
"Naruto Uzumaki, I've heard a lot about you from an old friend of mine many years ago. It seems like what she said about you still applies today."Naruto wondered who she was talking about.
"I have a question. If you don't mind my asking, I've heard your dream is to be the Hokage. Why?"Edelgard asked.
He decided to be honest, even though he doesn't plan on choosing her house.
"Because people think I can't because I'm dead last. I like to prove someone like me, who was born with nothing, can become the Hokage. But there are other reasons too. I just want to be recognized."Naruto said with honesty.
She wasn't berating his dream; she was challenging him, making him think. She was treating him with respect, more than he ever thought most of his peers treated him. Dimitri did the same part of him was tempted to take up on her offer, but he wanted to listen to Claude first.
"You know you shattered my expectations. I thought you were arrogant and stuck-up, but I was wrong. I hope we can be friends, Edelgard." He smiled and walked away with a smile on his face.
Lastly, was Claude. He didn't know what to think. He looked like it was hard to read. He had a smile that looked inviting but also seemed to hide something.
"Well, you saved the best for last. You know you and Hinata are the only ones of the Konoha transfers who even heard all of us out. I'm wondering if you'll choose my house, the Golden Deer." Claude said with that smile. There was something infectious about that smile.
"I'm not going to lie; it's kind of a shame Hinata didn't choose the Golden Deer. This would be the right place for her, and I know she and Marianne would get along perfectly." When he thinks about Hinata, he can't help but blush. His crush on Sakura is nothing more than a facade for the most part because he feels like he has no chance with someone like her. She is completely out of his league.
"In this house, we have nobles and commoners. We all get along. Yeah, we're kind of a bunch of misfits, but hey, that's what makes our house unique. You know." Naruto can relate to that. His friends, Shikamaru and Choji, are a bunch of misfits along with him. When he looks at them, he's glad they're part of his class along with Ino.
"I've heard about your goal, at least I overheard it when you talked about it with Edelgard. Just a question: if you were to become Hokage, what would you do?" Claude asked him. He honestly didn't know. He never thought that far ahead.
"I really don't know," Naruto admitted. "My goal is to break down the barriers between nations so that people from different cultures, regardless of their continent, can get along. The isolation, especially here, affects cultural development. The world is so much bigger than Fodlan. I would like to break down those barriers. I know it will take many years, which is why I was wondering what you would do if you became the Hokage. You can't answer it now, but if you want to help find an answer, perhaps you should go to my house. Maybe we could be friends. You may learn a thing or two." Claude winked.
He liked Claude; he treated him with respect Edelgard did too. It was hard to choose because there's something he liked in each of the Lords but something about Claude clicked more than the others. He made his decision.
"I think I found the right house for me. I'm looking forward to getting to know you, Claude."Naruto said, shaking his hand. "We're going to have a lot of fun. I heard about the kind of pranks you played in Konoha. I'm looking forward to seeing what kind of tricks we can both come up with together."
He couldn't believe that a leader in their house was a prankster. They both laughed. Naruto could get used to this. He looked at all the people in the Golden Deer House; he was disappointed Ingrid and Dorothea were not in his class. There was nothing to stop them from hanging out outside of class. He was pretty sure the people in the Golden Deer would be good to hang out with, but he would have really liked to be in the same class as the girls he met today.
Oh well, Naruto thought. There weren't any rules that dictated they couldn't be friends just because they were in separate houses. He was eagerly looking forward to meeting his classmates tomorrow.
Sakura was going to choose the house that Sasuke was going to enroll in, but something stopped her. Something about the woman in front of her, Edelgard Von Hresvelg, drew her in. There was something about her that made Sakura want to listen; she didn't bother listening to Claude or Dimitri, considering they did not intrigue her like Edelgard did. Edelgard had a powerful presence about her, a will that was strong—someone inspiring, someone who commanded loyalty and respect.
She reminded Sakura a lot of Tsunade. In that moment, she forgot about her infatuation with Sasuke—she wanted to hear what this woman had to say.
"Everyone else either went with their other teams and the other houses or just went to the house leader they talked to first. You are different, Sakura Haruno. I find it fascinating, considering your reputation. Why do you choose to speak to me in particular? Why not go with Sasuke Uchiha in the Blue Lions?" Edelgard asked her.
Sakura thought about it. Honestly, that would be the best thing to start with when talking to her potential house leader.
"I would like to know what you're all about, Edelgard-sama," Sakura replied respectfully.
"I can't really tell you much, though. There's one thing I'd like to ask: How do you feel about a world where people rise up on their own merit? How would you feel about such a world existing?" Edelgard asked seriously. Sakura thought hard about it. She considered her own situation. Being clanless, not much was expected of her. In fact, her sensei, Kakashi Hatake, barely trained her; she could hardly call him a teacher. The favoritism towards those with clan connections was evident. But then she thought about people like her. Sakura was lucky. Had it not been for her team passing the Bell test, she would be in a bad situation now.
Those who lack the ability to become Shinobi or who are kicked out of the program face a difficult time getting by with their limited employment opportunities. What kind of injustice was that? Talented people stuck in dead-end jobs with no chance of advancement because they flunked out of the academy—it was hardly fair. But then she wondered: What if those people had a chance to actually advance, regardless of whether their teammates were successful or not?
Edelgard noticed she was deep in thought. Sakura couldn't help but find her appealing; she doubted the other two would even consider such a world.
"I find the idea of getting by on your own merit to be a good one, but it sounds idealistic. How would you make such a world possible? How would you instigate such a drastic change to the status quo without an upheaval?" Sakura asked Edelgard, looking impressed.
"I'll be disappointed if you accepted what I had to say without question. The world I propose will be a difficult one to create, but with more people like-minded like yourself, I might find the answer, Sakura-san," Edelgard offered her hand.
Sakura didn't even think about Sasuke. Why bother? She was being offered a chance to be part of something greater. She took Edelgard's hand without hesitation.
Her sensei would not approve, but she didn't care. She didn't care what anyone thought. For once, she wanted to be something, to reach her full potential—and that person who actually believed she could and was willing to give her a chance was Edelgard.
"Are you sure this is wise having a bunch of foreigners at our school?" asked one of Rhea's followers. They were wary of foreigners. She wanted to get this program to work despite the setbacks caused by one of Konoha's former ninjas. She still wanted to build relations between the five nations on the continent.
"Please take care of Naruto for me. If anything happens, I wouldn't be able to face his parents." She didn't know much about Naruto, but she did know about Kurama, the nine-tailed fox sealed inside of him.
"Don't worry. He's in good hands. There's no place safer than here."
"See you later, old friend. Be careful." Hiruzen said to Rhea and left her alone in her chamber. The students from Konoha have officially chosen their houses. She looked out the window, wondering where Sitri's son was. She had a strong feeling she would meet him soon. Soon she would be able to revive her mother. It was only a matter of time.
She couldn't help but wonder about the three specific students who had enrolled this year, and the houses they had chosen, which she found curious.
Naruto Uzumaki, the carrier of the nine-tailed fox named Kurama, chose the Golden Deer. She wasn't surprised by this; Naruto and Claude were compatible. Not to mention, she feels that's the house he would fit in best. Considering the status of everyone being mostly commoners and nobles, and having people he knows back home, it's no wonder the Konoha transfers three of which are actually going to be late due to missing their boat—all of the members usually join the houses. However, Team 7 was the outlier; they all joined separate houses, which was unusual and unheard of for Konoha transfers who usually stuck together. This was the first time they said this happened.
Hinata Hyuga and Sasuke Uchiha surprised her, she expected the opposite choice to be made. Sasuke in the Black Eagles and Hinata and the Blue Lions.
Hinata defied her own father and clan by joining the Black Eagles, which she doesn't understand how someone so well-respected as herself could choose such a controversial house. The members of the Black Eagles are known to have many psychological issues due to traumatic events in their past. She doesn't judge the members because they all seem to be struggling with something, even if it's not always obvious. It's possible that Hinata isn't that type of person, but it's too early to tell.
The person who perplexed her the most was Sasuke Uchiha, why did the Blue Lions choose him? Considering its reputation, it trains a lot of elite scholars, soldiers, etc. But the Black Eagles are also an elite house, which could have benefited him more ultimately. However, he chose the Blue Lions. She was apprehensive because of his brother, Itachi Uchiha, who came into that house over a decade ago and did such horrific things that no member of the Blue Lions would ever acknowledge that they had someone like Itachi in their house because of how much of a horrific and evil human being he turned out to be.
The three individuals Naruto, Sasuke, and Hinata feel like they will change the fabric of the world. She didn't like this at all. Never in the history of the monastery have there been three heirs from the three nations of Fodlan attending the academy at the same time. This was a special time.
She would have to keep an eye on all three of them, as all three can potentially be dangerous if they become enemies of the Church. Regardless of her promises to protect the people of Fodlan, she will do so by any means necessary. Promises be damned.