Naruto Fan Fiction ❯ Naruto vs. Sasuke The Aftermath ❯ A Day of Strife in Konoha ( Chapter 12 )

Chapter 12 Summary: The day began with turmoil for Naruto and Hinata, and it has continued for them and many of their friends. Even the Hokage is feeling the strain of the day. And for one kunoichi she believes all her dreams will be fulfilled by one man.

 

Naruto vs. Sasuke The Aftermath

 

 

Chapter 12: “A Day of Strife in Konoha”

 

Sakura holds her breath and reduces her chakra levels to a minimum as a Shinobi guard patrol of the Village Hidden in the Leaves goes by. After they have passed, she steps out from her hiding place behind a tree and pauses a moment to breathe again. For the last half hour, she has become a “Missing Nin” of the village. She looks to the map she has in her hand and then to her surroundings. It will take another 10 to 12 hours to reach her objective. Sakura puts the map away and takes one last longing look at Konoha before sprinting off again. As she is running, she silently hopes that her friends and family will understand that this is something she had to do. Meanwhile, Naruto and the rest of his friends arrive at Ichiraku Ramens for lunch and are blissfully unaware that their friend and former teammate has gone rogue and deserted the village. Also unaware of what has happened, Kakashi and Gaara arrive at the Hokage's office dragging a very upset Hiashi Hyuga along with them. As they enter, Kakashi unceremoniously throws Hiashi to the ground in front of Lady Tsunade's desk. Hiashi immediately rises and turns towards Kakashi and Gaara, his face flushed red with rage as he shouts with vengeance.

 

“Damn you Kakashi! How dare you treat me like some sort of criminal! I swear I'll make you pay for this insult to my person! I'll see you in prison or dead before this day is through!”

 

“No one is going to be imprisoned or die until I find out what the hell is going on?” Tsunade yells for everyone to hear.

 

Kakashi ignores Hiashi's threat and bows to Lady Tsunade before saying.

 

“My apologies Hokage-Sama, I know you were expecting Kazekage Gaara and myself to your office. But unfortunately, we've had a situation arise with Hiashi Hyuga and Naruto with regard to Sarutobi's decree that I feel you will want to deal with first.”

 

Upon hearing this, Tsunade immediately begins grinding her teeth as her famous temper begins to slowly rise and she looks to Gaara before politely saying.

 

“Forgive me Kazekage Gaara. I'm sorry to have to keep you waiting, but I must deal with this matter first before we can discuss why you are here. If you would like, you can wait outside until we are through. I promise to be as quick possible.”

 

“Kazekage Gaara is actually one of several witnesses to Hiashi's crimes Hokage-Sama.” Kakashi remarks.

 

“I have committed no crimes Kakashi, you have! Tsunade I demand that you arrest Kakashi immediately for his slanderous insult and physical assault upon my being!” Hiashi yells in defense.

 

Tsuande slams her palms onto her desk causing the entire room and it's contents to vibrate before angrily saying.

 

“Shut up Hiashi! You are in no position to demand anything of me! And you will address me as Hokage now and in the future or you will pay a heavy price for your insult against me! Do you understand?”

 

“Yes Hokage-Sama.” Hiashi says through gritted teeth.

 

“Alright Kakashi, please give me your testimony with regards to Hiashi Hyuga's possible involvement in breaking Sarutobi's decree.” Tsuande asks.

 

“Yes Hokage-Sama. As I was escorting Kazekage Gaara from Suna to your office, as we entered Konoha, we felt an extreme chakra pressure begin to rise from the training area. The pressure was beginning to reach disturbing proportions. With the Kazekage's permission, we deviated our route and went to investigate the cause of this disturbance. Upon reaching the training area, we witnessed and heard Hiashi Hyuga threaten and attempt to kill Hinata Hyuga and Neji Hyuga, two of the villages most promising Shinobi. Hiashi then threatened Naruto and invited him to join in the death of the aforementioned Shinobi, before Kazekage Gaara and myself intervened. Also, in the process of stopping Hiashi's rampage, he has also threatened me more than once with death as well Hokage-Sama.”

 

Lady Tsunade looked over to Gaara who was sitting in the back of the room on a throne of sand. The Kazekage of the Village Hidden in the Sand merely nodded his head to the Hokage to confirm everything Kakashi has just said. She then turned her gaze towards the accused Hyuga leader and her eyes narrowed as a small amount of killing intent was directed his way making him squirm where he stood. Tsuande in a voice tinged with anger and disgust says.

 

“You attempted to murder your own daughter and your dead brothers son? What kind of monster are you Hiashi Hyuga?”

 

“The only monster in this village is that demon scum Naruto!” Hiashi replies with venom in his voice.

 

Hiashi is then blasted with killing intent from Tsuande, Kakashi, and Gaara before an enraged Tsunade says.

 

“Hiashi, one more remark like that in regards to Naruto, and I'll have Kakashi slit your throat from ear to ear! You got that?”

 

Hiashi feeling the killing intent all around him, nervously nods his head in confirmation. Tsunade seeing this takes a moment to calm herself down before asking.

 

“Alright Hiashi, I've heard Kakashi's side of what transpired. Do you wish to say anything on your behalf in defense?”

 

“Yes Hokage-Sama, I do wish to speak. I admit I may have made some disparaging remarks towards the Kyuubi container. But I did not threaten or attack the boy whatsoever. He however did threaten and attack me over matters that did not concern him.”

 

“To try and save Hinata's and Neji's life!” Kakashi interjected.

 

“That was and is a Hyuga matter that neither you nor the boy have any right to get involved with Kakashi!” Hiashi proclaims with indignation.

 

“Still breaking all the rules and hiding behind Hyuga privilege after all these years Hiashi, how cowardly and pathetic you truly are!” Tsunade comments with disgust before saying.

 

“I've heard enough! Hiashi, you are indeed a fortunate man. I've no doubt that I could have you killed for violating Sarutobi's decree. I'm also quite certain that I could imprison you for the assault and attempted murder of Neji and your daughter Hinata.”

 

“I've told you already, she is no longer my daughter.” Hiashi coldly replies.

 

“Be that as it may Hiashi. You will walk out of here alive because the people you broke Sarutobi's decree with already know of Naruto and Kyuubi's relationship. Also you won't be going to prison, because I doubt that any of the victims of your assault will file charges against you for a variety of reasons.” A frustrated Tsuande states, as she looks over to Kakashi who nods his head in frustration as well.

 

Kakashi heard everything the Hokage said and begrudgingly agreed with her logic. He knew the case against Hiashi was not strong enough to overcome the power he had in the Konoha Council. As much as he and Tsunade would like to string Hiashi up from the nearest tree, they would have to bide their time and wait for another day. To kill him would pose a great deal of political problems for Lady Tsunade. Kakashi also knew that the Hokage had bigger problems to deal with at the moment regarding the Akatsuki and what he had learned of their plans to capture all the Jinchuuriki (Demon Host). Hence Kazakage Gaara visit as he along with Naruto and the other Jinchuuriki were in mortal danger from this threat. Tsunade wished to discuss this and a new peace treaty with Gaara, one that would offer mutual benefits between the Fire and Wind nations. An alliance between them would greatly increase the protection of the two countries and it's citizens. Not to mention the economic and social boom a new treaty might achieve as well. Kakashi broke out of his train of thought when he heard Lady Tsunade speak again.

 

“Now Hiashi, in terms of your banishment of Hinata onto the streets of Konoha. Is it your position that you relinquish all rights and obligations towards her and she now becomes a ward of the village? If so, you need to sign a parental-clan release form authorizing to legally do this.”

 

“Fine, whatever. I could care less. I wish to wash my hands of the whole affair.” Hiashi remarks.

 

“Your concern for your daughter's future well being is touching Hiashi, sign at the bottom if you would.” Tsuande sarcastically says as she hands the form to Hiashi.

 

After Hiashi signs the document absolving him of any rights or claims to Hinata he hands it back to the Hokage. Tsunade looks at the document for a moment and a wry smile appears on her face as she affixes the Hokage's stamp of approval to it. She then pulls another document from a file and approves that one as well before looking at Hiashi and saying.

 

“Alright Hiashi, it's official now. Hinata Hyuga is now a ward of the village until she reaches the legal adult age of 16. However, if any legal adult party wishes to become guardian to Hinata until she reaches that age, they may file an application to do so, and with my approval claim Hinata into their own family or clan.”

 

Hiashi had not realized this when he banished Hinata and fearing that the secrets of the Hyuga fighting style might be learned outside of the Hyuga clan, he quickly attempted to rescind making Hinata a ward of Konoha.

 

“I'm sorry Hiashi. I'm afraid you're too late. Hinata has already been legally placed with another guardian with my approval.” Tsunade replies with a smirk on her face as she holds up a document with her seal of approval on it.

 

“That's impossible! What is this some sort of trick?” Hiashi angrily says.

 

“It's no trick Hiashi. My office has had on file since Sarutobi was Hokage an application for guardianship of Hinata, if she were to become a ward of the village. Apparently, they had the foresight that one day you would toss your daughter onto the streets like a piece of trash.” Tsunade calmly states.

 

“Who, who is now the guardian of my daughter?” Hiashi bellows.

 

“Oh, now she's your daughter again. Well let's see, ah yes the applicant is one Yuuhi Kurenai.” Tsunade answers her enjoyment at Hiashi's frustration evident in her voice.

 

“This is an outrage! I will not stand for this!” Hiashi shouts.

 

“You will stand for it, because the matter is legally done and closed. If you wish, you may file an application to resume guardianship of Hinata if she becomes a ward of Konoha again. But as of right now, per your wishes and your signature. Hinata is no longer your responsibility. Lady Tsunade fires back.

 

“So if anything dire were to happen to Ms. Kurenai, I could resume guardianship of Hinata?” Hiashi deviously asks in a very dark tone of voice.

 

Before Hiashi has a chance to hear an answer. A hand grabs the front of his robe and lifts him into the air before slamming him down onto Lady Tsunade's desk. A sound of a thousand birds chirping then filled the room and a Chidori lightning blade is held to the Hyuga leaders throat before an enraged Kakashi says.

 

“Hiashi Hyuga, you have made several threats veiled or outright against many people today, that was the last one! I'm here to tell you that if any harm befalls Kurenai while she is Hinata's guardian! Whether you are directly involved or not, I will kill you!”

 

Hiashi feeling the electric charge tingling on his throat and the sound of Kakashi's voice knows this is no idle threat and he quickly nods his head to the furious Jounin. After a moment, Kakashi slowly releases his grip on Hiashi and deactivates his Chidori jutsu before stepping back. Tsunade is a bit taken aback by Kakashi's display of emotion. Even Gaara who has largely ignored what's been going on with Tsunade and Hiashi lifts his head in mild surprise. Granted he has only known Kakashi for a short amount of time. But in that time, Gaara had deduced that Kakashi is a true Shinobi who always kept his emotions in check during any situation. After a brief pause to reflect on Kakashi's actions, Lady Tsunade clears her throat and says.

 

“Ahem, Alright Hiashi, I think were through here. You've made enough friends today. You may go now. Oh, by the way, I want you to remember this date. It's the day you blew your shot at getting a Hyuga into the Hokage's office.” Tsunade announces.

 

“What are you talking about?” A perturbed Hiashi asks.

 

“Oh, you'll find out along with everyone else when Yondaime's message is released on the 16th anniversary of his passing. I will enjoy the look on your face then.” Tsunade replies with a devilish grin on her face.

 

Hiashi angrily storms out of the room silently cursing many people before thinking to himself, as a wicked smile spreads across his face.

 

`All of this is that demon-brats fault. They all love him so much. I may not be able to kill him, but I can still hurt him and them as well!'

 

“Kakashi please stay a moment, I need you to brief me on what you've learned concerning the Jinchuuriki situation and the Akatsuki.” Tsunade says.

 

Meanwhile, Naruto and the gang were enjoying the lunch he was buying for them at Ichiraku Ramen. The mood was very jovial as Naruto and Neji discussed their sparring match. Hinata, Ino and Tenten were talking about the latest clothing fashions. Kiba was at the front counter attempting to hit on Ayame the daughter of Teuchi the owner of Ichiraku's. Shino was acting as a lookout for Ayame's father. Shikamaru and Temari were lost in their own conversation. While Chouji was complaining to anyone who would listen that three bowls of ramen was not enough and he was still hungry. At one point during lunch, many of Naruto's friends were taking turns wearing the pink wig they had and doing their best impersonations of Sakura. Much to the laughter of everyone there. It abruptly came to an end when it was Chouji's turn and he proceeded to do his impersonation of Sakura verbally abusing Naruto. He ended this rather quickly as he felt a great deal of killing intent directed his way by several people, but most noticeably by Hinata. The intent she was giving off towards him was enough to make him momentarily lose his appetite, a very rare occurrence without question. Suddenly a slap was heard in the restaurant followed by an irate Ayame yelling, “you creep” at Kiba who was rubbing his cheek. Ayame stormed off into the kitchen, a moment later Teuchi came out with a meat cleaver in one hand and blood in his eyes. Fortunately, Kiba and Shino saw him first and bid a hasty exit from the restaurant. Stopping only briefly to thank Naruto and run out the door, nearly knocking down Asuma Sarutobi as he was entering. Ino spied her Sensei and quickly ducked under the table to hide. As Asuma approached the table he said to his team.

 

“There you are, I've been looking all over the village for you, where's Ino?”

 

“I don't know Asuma Sensei, I think she might have gone shopping?” Shikamaru answered, trying to cover for his teammate.

 

“Why am I not surprised?” Asuma groaned in frustration before saying.

 

“Well no matter, she's of no use during practice anyways. Come on Shikamaru, Chouji we have some training to do.”

 

“But Sensei, were a three man team. We really can't train with only two of us can we?” Shikamaru asks, hoping not to train but to spend more time with Temari.

 

“Please Shikamaru, you and Chouji have been a two man squad even with Ino present for the last several weeks. She certainly hasn't been an asset to the team lately, more of a detriment.” Asuma coldly replies.

 

“That's not fair Asuma Sensei. All the Genin teams have been a little distracted with what's been happening the past few weeks. Ino is a good team member and we're a stronger team with her than without her.” Chouji defensively says.

 

“A stronger team Chouji, (ha, ha, ha) you must be joking? Ino would be the weakest kunoichi in your class if it weren't for Sakura. I thought Ino was the luckiest Genin at the Chunin exams, when she drew Sakura as an opponent. Hell, I figured that she was the one person Ino could defeat. And she couldn't even do that only tie her.” Asuma says while laughing.

 

“Asuma Sensei, Ino gave everything she had at the exam. Just because she didn't win her match doesn't make her weak.” Shikamaru remarks.

 

“No Shikamaru, what makes Ino weak is her attitude. She barely trains at all and she relies solely on her family's bloodline jutsu's to get her by. All she is concerned with is shopping, fashions, and drooling over pretty boys like Sasuke. Ino is a spoiled little diva that cares about no one but herself and certainly not about becoming a quality Shinobi. But if you two are so concerned about training today without a third team member. Why don't we ask Temari-San to join us for practice? It will be a pleasant change to have a strong kunoichi to train with as opposed to Ino.” Asuma states, rather annoyed at his two students for arguing with him.

 

“Um, I really don't think that Shikamaru and Chouji want to train with someone other than their teammate Asuma-Sama.” Temari nervously says.

 

“What they want is inconsequential. I'm their Sensei and I would be honored if you would help in their training. It would do these two good to see what a talented kunoichi can do.” Asuma proclaims.

 

“Uh, ok I guess?” Temari hesitantly replies as her eyes dart to their table that Ino is under and then to Shikamaru who reluctantly nods his head in approval.

 

Chouji, Shikamaru, and Temari rise from the table and thank Naruto before leaving to follow Asuma to the training grounds. Leaving Naruto, Hinata, Neji and Tenten to silently ponder how Ino is feeling under the table at that moment. Both Naruto and Hinata could well understand her pain in hearing her own Sensei speak so poorly of her. Naruto at times had felt a similar pain in the past with Kakashi. Hinata could sympathize as she had lived a lifetime of verbal disdain from her own father. Both were concerned for their friend when she did not immediately rise from her hiding place. After a moment, Hinata softly calls out with concern.

 

“Ino, are you alright?”

 

Ino heard her friend call out to her and quickly wiped away the tears that had been welling in her eyes. She did not want her friends to see how hurt she was, and masking her pain, she planted a goofy smile on her face and rose from under the table laughing and saying.

 

“(Ha, ha, ha, ha,) boy that was a close one! Sensei almost caught me there.”

 

As Ino looked around at her remaining friends, she could see the somber expressions on their faces and the looks of pity coming from their eyes. She did not want her friends feeling sorry for her and attempted to change the mood and subject of her well being by saying.

 

“Hey Hinata, have you decided what you're going to wear for your big date tonight?”

 

“Oh no, I hadn't even thought about that. All of my clothes are still at the compound. I, I, don't think my father will allow me to get them today if ever?” Hinata dejectedly answers.

 

“Well this sounds like a job for Ino Yamanaka! Come on Hinata, you can borrow one of my dresses. We'll also ask my parents if you can stay with us until we can figure out your new living accommodations.” Ino says with vigor as she tugs on Hinata's jacket.

 

As Hinata gets up to leave with Ino, she quickly kisses Naruto on the cheek and reminds him to meet her at the restaurant at 8:00 p.m. As Naruto watches Hinata go, he suddenly realizes that he doesn't have anything nice to wear for the date tonight. He quickly says goodbye to Neji and Tenten and paying the bill, dashes out to try and find something.

 

It was late in the afternoon as Kakashi leapt from rooftop to rooftop heading back to the Hokage's office. He was grateful that Lady Tsunade did not require his presence for her treaty talks with Gaara, and had sent him home for a few hours of rest. She was pleased with the information he had obtained with regard to the Akatsuki's plans for the Jinchuuriki. However, she was not pleased that he had failed to learn anything about what Orochimaru and Sasuke might be plotting. As much as she hated to do it, Kakashi was to resume his previous mission as soon as he had safely escorted the Kazekage back to the borders of the Wind country tonight. Tsunade felt that though the Akatsuki were a problem that needed to be dealt with at some point. Orochimaru and Sasuke were a more clear and present danger to Konoha and possibly to Naruto as well. The urgency at which Kakashi sped towards the Hokage's office also had to do with the fact that he had overheard Tsunade order Shizune to bring Kurenai and Hinata to her office for a 5:30 meeting. No doubt to discuss Kurenai's recent acceptance as Hinata's new guardian. He hoped he would be able to spend a few minutes with Kurenai, as the two of them had not spoken since the night of their kiss. Kakashi had spent a lot of time while on his mission thinking about what he would say to the Genjutsu mistress. He had some important matters to discuss with her, and now seemed the only opportunity he would get, before he would have to leave again. As Kakashi entered the business district of Konoha, he spied a familiar orange jumpsuit sitting alone on a park bench adjacent to the stores. Kakashi hadn't seen Naruto in over six weeks due to his mission. As important as it was to talk to Kurenai, he remembered he had promised Naruto this morning that the two of them would catch up. And the days of Kakashi letting Naruto down stopped at the Valley of the End. He quickly deviated his route and landed next to his forlorn looking former student and said.

 

“Hey Naruto, how are you doing?”

 

“Hi Kakashi Sensei, I'm ok I guess?” Naruto replied in a very somber voice. Kakashi could tell immediately that something was amiss and sitting down on the bench next to Naruto asked.

 

“What's wrong Naruto? You seem pretty down about something? What is it, maybe I can help?”

 

Naruto looked up at Kakashi, and leaning back breathed a heavy sigh before saying.

 

“Well I've got a big problem for my date tonight with Hinata and I don't know what to do about it. I think I might have to cancel, which I don't want to do. She's had a pretty crummy day, and I really wanted to do something nice for her to cheer her up.”

 

“My, my, you and Hinata are dating now. I guess I have been away for a long time. You'll have to tell me how that came about sometime. I'm sure it's an interesting story. Congratulations Naruto, she's a wonderful girl, I'm sure she'll make you very happy. Now, what's this problem that's got you so down?” Kakashi asks.

 

“She is wonderful and I never thought I could be this happy, as I am when I'm with her. Which is why it kills me to disappoint her in anyway. My problem is that I promised to take her to this really fancy restaurant that she's wanted to go to. But I'm not going to be able to because I don't have any nice clothes to wear.” Naruto replies.

 

“Well that's easy enough to solve, let's go buy you some clothes.” Kakashi remarks.

 

“We can't.” Naruto says after a long pause, before stating “no one will sell me anything.”

 

Kakashi inwardly berated himself for not remembering the trials Naruto has to go through just to get the basic necessities of life. He then silently cursed the villagers who do this to Naruto before saying.

 

“Come on Naruto, I buy my clothing from that store over there. Let's go get you something nice to wear for your date.”

 

“But Kakashi Sensei, I already tried that store and they threw me out!” Naruto exclaimed.

 

“Don't worry about it, I know the owner and I'm one of his best customers. Leave everything to me.” Kakashi replies as he and Naruto head over to the store.

 

As they enter the store, the storeowner recognized Kakashi immediately and cheerfully greeted him with a smile on his face, before he saw Naruto following behind and scowling began to say.

 

“I thought I told you once already, we don't serve your - - -.” The owner stopped speaking mid sentence as a kunai impacted the wall next to his head. Kakashi told Naruto to go to the back and start looking for something he might like while he and the owner had a chat about some things. As Kakashi approached to retrieve his kunai and speak to the shopkeeper, the owner could feel the killing intent radiate off the Jounin as he got closer and stammering began to speak.

 

“Now, now, see here, how dare you, I will not be treated like - - -.” The owner stopped mid sentence once again when Kakashi pulled the kunai out of the wall and quietly growled.

 

“Shut up!”

 

A fearful nod from the storeowner confirmed to Kakashi that he had the man's attention, as he began twirling the kunai in his hand before calmly saying.

 

“You know, you really shouldn't be upset with me. You were about to break Sarutobi's decree at which point I would have been forced to kill you. Instead, you should be thanking me for saving your life. How about it, come on let's hear it.”

 

“Th, th, thank you.” The man nervously said.

 

“Oh there's no reason to thank me kind sir, but you can do me a favor. You see that young man over there. He has a very special occasion to attend tonight and he needs some nice formal clothing to wear. I told him I knew the best tailor clothier in the entire village and I was sure that you would be able to help him out. Was I wrong?” Kakashi asked.

 

“No, no sir. You, you weren't wrong. I, I, can help.” Replied the frightened owner.

 

“Good, I knew this was the right place and that I could count on you. Let's get him fixed up right now and you can charge it onto my monthly bill. In fact, if he needs any clothing in the future, you will be glad to help him and you can put that on my tab as well. You don't have a problem doing that do you?” Kakashi asks.

 

“No, no sir, I will be hap happy to serve his clothing needs from now on.” The owner stammered.

 

“That's fantastic, I knew there was a reason why I liked you so much. Imagine if I didn't. (ha, ha, ha,) I'm sure Naruto will have nothing but wonderful things to say about you and your store in the future.” Kakashi proclaimed before leaning in and whispering in a cold and menacing tone to the owner.

 

“Because if I hear otherwise, I will go from being your best customer to your worst nightmare. In fact, you may want to pass this along to your fellow shopkeeper friends. The days of refusing to sell anything to that young man, or charging him a ridiculous price in doing so are over. For if I, or any of my Shinobi associates hear of anything different, we will be quite upset. Do you understand?”

 

“Yes, yes sir, I understand.” The owner quickly answered as the killing intent coming from Kakashi nearly made him pass out.

 

“Excellent, let's get him taken care of now shall we.” Kakashi says in a pleasant tone as he and the shopkeeper begin walking over towards Naruto.

 

About an hour later, Naruto and Kakashi are walking to Naruto's apartment, their arms laden with several boxes and bags of clothes, as Naruto is telling the story of how he and Hinata became a couple. Kakashi nearly dropped what he was carrying from laughter when he heard that sweet little Hinata had cleaned Sakura's clock while he was away. He looked over to Naruto and saw the smile on his face and heard the laughter in his voice once again and felt genuinely glad he had been able to help him today. Kakashi glanced at his watch and thought he might still have time to try and see Kurenai today before he had to leave. As he and Naruto rounded the corner laughing, they suddenly stopped as both of them looked on in horror as Naruto's apartment building was engulfed in flames.

 

While Naruto and Kakashi were watching the destruction of Naruto's home, Lady Tsunade and Kurenai wait patiently at the Hokage's office for Hinata to arrive. Tsunade who's had a long day looks at the clock which read 6:05pm and grumbles.

 

“Where is that girl, she's over 30 minutes late?”

 

“Well she is homeless, so the ANBU don't exactly know where to go look for her?” Kurenai says.

 

Just then a soft barely audible knock is heard on the door, as both Kurenai and Tsunade look at one another smirking before Tsunade says.

 

“Come in Hinata.”

 

The door slowly opens and Hinata nervously enters the office and quickly bowing says.

 

“Hokage-Sama, Kurenai Sensei, you wished to see me?”

 

“Yes Hinata, this won't take too long. Earlier today, your father filed the necessary paperwork making you a ward of the village. And since you're not old enough yet to be an independent citizen of Konoha. You need to be placed with a foster guardian until you reach legal age. Do you understand Hinata?” Tsunade asks.

 

“Hai, Hokage-Sama.” Hinata softly replied. Saddened by the fact that her father has followed through with his banishment.

 

“Well you're here because a suitable Konoha citizen has filed an application which I have already approved, to become your new legal guardian.” Tsunade states, as she waits for a reaction from Hinata.

 

“Hai, Hokage-Sama.” Hinata softly replies again, as she looks to the ground before asking.

 

“When do I have to meet my new guardian?”

 

“You can meet them right now Hinata.” Tsuande replies, with a grin on her face. This momentarily confuses Hinata, until she sees a smile on Kurenai's face before stammering.

 

“Kur, Kurenai Sensei, are you my new guardian?”

 

“Hai, Hinata, I am.” Kurenai happily replies.

 

Needless to say, Hinata is overjoyed at this turn of events. So much so it is all she can do to keep from running over and hugging her Sensei. Which she would have done if not for the esteem eminence of her surroundings. Hinata again bowed to the two women and cheerfully said.

 

“Thank you Kurenai Sensei and you as well Hokage-Sama.”

 

As quickly as Hinata's smile had appeared on her face from hearing this news, it quickly disappeared as a look of worry and concern replaced it. Tsunade and Kurenai noticed this dramatic change and Kurenai asked.

 

“What's wrong Hinata?”

 

“I'm worried about my father Kurenai Sensei. My father is very upset with me, and he doesn't like you very much. He always considered you weak and foolish for accepting me as a student. I'm fearful he might hurt you trying to get at me?”

 

“I appreciate your concern Hinata, but I'm a big girl. I can take care of myself.” Kurenai replies.

 

“(Ha, ha, ha,) I wouldn't worry about your father hurting Kurenai. Kakashi made it quite clear to him, that would be a grave mistake on his part if that were to happen.” Tsunade laughingly assures the young girl.

 

“Kakashi, he, he's back?” Kurenai exclaimed, as her demeanor changed which did not go unnoticed by either Tsunade or Hinata. Tsunade cocked an eyebrow slightly at the change before saying.

 

“Yes, he's back, but only for a brief time. He has to escort Kazekage Gaara back to the Wind country tonight, and then resume his previous mission.”

 

“Oh, I see. You say he intervened on my behalf with Hiashi, but why?” Kurenai asks.

 

“I don't know Kurenai? I was hoping you could tell me. It was quite the display of emotion shall we say from the most stoic ninja I know. I've got a Hiashi size dent in my desk that I need fixed because of Kakashi actions earlier today.”

 

“I, I, have no idea Hokage-Sama.” Kurenai quietly said as she looked to the ground.

 

This was very strange behavior on Kurenai's part Tsunade thought to herself as she stared at the young Jounin. She was sure that nothing was going on between Kurenai and Kakashi, but something was definitely amiss between the two. Tsunade decided that this mystery could wait as she had more pressing issues to deal with. She turned back to Hinata and said.

 

“Hinata you need not concern yourself about your father hurting you or your friends anymore. I'm going to have the ANBU keep a closer watch on him from now on.”

 

“Hai, Hokage-Sama, thank you very much.” Hinata replied as she began to smile again.

 

“Good now that's out of the way, I have a question. Hinata, why are you using a Henge right now to disguise your true appearance?” Lady Tsunade asks.

 

“Well Hokage-Sama, when the ANBU messenger found me to inform me of this meeting. I was at Ino Yamanaka's home borrowing a dress for my date tonight with Naruto-Kun. I did not have time to change, as I was already late for the meeting, and I didn't think what I was wearing was appropriate for your office.” Hinata replies.

 

“Well, that seems reasonable, but now you have me curious? Let's see what you have on to drive the knucklehead crazy.” Tsunade jokingly says.

 

Um, I, I, don't know? It, it really isn't appropriate for your office Lady Tsunade.” Hinata stutters.

 

“Consider it an order from your Hokage, young kunoichi.” Tsunade says with a smirk.

 

Hinata gives a small sigh and drops the Henge revealing her in a very tight and low cut bluish gray dress that stopped mid thigh. The dress had two thin single shoulder straps that came together on the back The dress also appeared to be at least one size smaller than what she required for her body. However because of this it hugged her body tightly and accentuated all of Hinata's womanly curves, and it showed a fair amount of cleavage due to the pressure around her upper torso. If that was not enough, Hinata was also wearing some sheer black stockings that barely rose above the hem of her dress. The entire ensemble was finished off with a pair of peat black open toed high heel shoes, which seem to add three inches to Hinata's height. As well as showing off her lovely well toned legs. For a final touch, Hinata also wore a lavender colored see through shoulder wrap that matched the color of her eyes. As she nervously stood in the office, she looked to the other two women in the room and saw them staring at her wide-eyed and with theirs mouths open. Hinata immediately thought something was wrong with her attire and asked.

 

“Lady Tsunade, Kurenai Sensei, is something wrong? Do you think Naruto will like what I am wearing?”

 

Both women simultaneously got over their initial shock of seeing Hinata look so beautiful and closed their mouths at the sound of her voice. Kurenai was at a loss for words, but Tsunade finally spoke and clearing her throat said.

 

“Ahem, no Hinata nothing is wrong. You look absolutely beautiful, stunning actually. Naruto will absolutely love what you're wearing. Don't you agree Kurenai?

 

“Hai, Lady Tsunade. He's a man isn't he!”

 

Hinata smiled at the compliments she received until a jolt of pain from her jaw where Hiashi had struck caused her to wince. Tsunade saw this and called the young kunoichi over and applied a medical jutsu to relieve the swelling and mend her jaw. After this was done, Tsunade had Hinata sign off on the paperwork making her Kurenai's ward. Tsunade then excused Hinata to go finish getting ready for her date, and the Hyuga girl quickly left. Lady Tsunade turned to Kurenai and remarked.

 

“I always knew that girl was lovely, but I had no idea that she could look, well so damn hot! Every male above the age of 12 will be after her if she continues to look like that. You've got your hands full the next two years Kurenai, no doubt about it.”

 

“Hai, Hokage-Sama. I'm afraid I do.” Kurenai replies with a sigh.

 

As Kurenai left the Hokage's office to begin moving into her new two-bedroom apartment, Kakashi was walking over to an ANBU Officer to inquire about the circumstances of the fire. The young officer recognized the legendary ex ANBU captain approaching him and immediately snapped to attention and waited for Kakashi to speak.

 

“What's going on here lieutenant? What is the nature of this fire?”

 

“Sir, the nature of the fire was arson. Apparently five individuals evacuated the few residents of this apartment building, and then proceeded to set it ablaze.” The officer replied.

 

“Do you have a description of the perpetrators? Is the ANBU squad searching for them right now? Kakashi asks.

 

“No need sir. We already have the suspects in custody.” The lieutenant stated as he pointed over to a group of ANBU surrounding five men sitting on their knees with their hands bound behind their backs. Kakashi noted of special interest the appearance of the criminals, which made him cringe slightly. The color of their eyes, they were white. He turned back to the young officer and asked.

 

“How were they captured, and have they said anything as to why they did this?”

 

“Sir, that is the odd part of this crime. They were captured here at the scene. It was almost as though they were waiting to be arrested. They have admitted that they are responsible for the arson, but they refuse to say anything else. Also of note Kakashi-Sama, they are all members of the side branch of the Hyuga clan.” The officer stated.

 

“Take them to the interrogation squad if you would lieutenant. We'll see if Ibiki can loosen their tongues and find out why they did this?” A disgusted Kakashi coldly orders.

 

Kakashi turns back to check on Naruto and see him sitting on the curb of the street with his head hung low. As Kakashi walks back over to Naruto, he feels responsible for this horrible event. He is positive this arson was retaliation on Hiashi Hyuga's part for what transpired in the Hokage's office earlier today. When Kakashi reaches Naruto, he sits down next to the dejected Shinobi and says in a choked voice.

 

“I'm so sorry Naruto, this is all my fault.”

 

“No it isn't Kakashi Sensei, it's mine. All the villagers hate me because of the Kyuubi. This isn't the first time that people have trashed my home. Usually though, they just break in and vandalize my stuff. I guess I shouldn't be surprised that someone finally decided to set fire to it. It's actually shocking that it hadn't happened before now. No big loss, it's not like I had a lot of nice things to lose. You want to know something funny, I will gladly give up everything I had in that rat hole, if it meant I could live one day without everyone hating me.” Naruto laments

 

“This isn't your fault Naruto, it never has been. You've had the most difficult life I can imagine. Your father would be ashamed of the ordeals many of the people of Konoha have put you through. But there are people here who do care about you a great deal. And I know this is of little comfort, but I promise you that it will get better. Naruto, I need you to brace yourself for what I'm going to tell you. The people who committed this cruel act against you are from the Hyuga clan.” Kakashi says.

 

“Is, is, this because of me and Hinata?” A wide-eyed Naruto asks.

 

“No Naruto, it isn't and you must believe that. I think this was done as retribution for me attacking Hiashi Hyuga in the Hokage's office. Hiashi chose to hurt me by hurting you. And if I could prove that he was the one behind this, I would kill him this very night. Naruto, I deeply regret that my actions have caused you more pain. I hope you can forgive me?” Kakashi replies the sorrow evident in his voice.

 

“There's nothing to forgive Kakashi Sensei. I doubt that you were the sole reason why Hiashi-Sama did this. Remember, I am dating his oldest daughter, which he is not exactly thrilled about. Naruto says while chuckling.

 

“Speaking of which Naruto, you've only got about an hour and a half to get ready and meet Hinata at the restaurant. Come on; let's grab your stuff. You can stay at my place while I'm away on my mission. When I get back, we'll figure out something then. You should also be fully healed by the time I get back and then we can get down to some serious training with Master Jiraiya. How does that sound?” Kakashi proclaims.

 

“Hai, that sounds pretty good Kakashi Sensei.” Naruto replies as they begin walking towards Kakashi's apartment.

 

Kakashi and Naruto arrived outside the restaurant with a few minutes to spare. Which gave Kakashi a chance to advise Naruto on the finer points of fine dining as well as on dating in general. Unbeknownst to both of them, that same scene had played ten minutes earlier between Kurenai and Hinata in that very same spot. Hinata was already seated in the restaurant and was nervously waiting for Naruto to arrive. When Kakashi had finished giving pointers to Naruto, they both poked their heads inside and scanned the dining area looking for Hinata. When they both saw her, Kakashi's eyes grew wide and Naruto fell apart. Kakashi quickly ushered Naruto back outside and attempted to calm the very panic stricken Shinobi down. Naruto was on the verge of hyperventilating as Kakashi knelt down and gave a paper bag to breathe in. Kakashi had never seen Naruto in such a state before, and knew he had to think of something drastic to overcome the panic attack he was experiencing. A wry smile spread across Kakashi's face, as he thought of something that he was sure would work. Helping Naruto back onto his feet, Kakashi said to him in a stern voice.

 

“Naruto, I'm assigning you a mission!”

 

“What do you mean Kakashi Sensei, right now?” A bewildered Naruto asks.

 

“Yes Naruto right now! Your mission is to calm down and march into that dining room, act like a gentleman, and have a pleasant dinner with Hinata. You've eaten with her before, you can do it again.” Kakashi orders.

 

“I, I, can't do it Kakashi Sensei! Sure I've eaten with Hinata before, but she's never looked like that. I mean I always thought Hinata was pretty, but I had no idea that she could look this beautiful. She could have any guy in the village she wanted right now. Why subject her to being with a dobe like me?” I should just go!” Naruto exclaims.

 

“Hinata doesn't want any guy in the village, she wants you. She doesn't consider you a dobe, and neither do I. And you're not going anywhere! Aside from the fact that you would hurt Hinata deeply if you stood her up, you do not have the option of refusing this mission. For if you do, I can guarantee you won't like the consequences.” Kakashi says.

 

“What's that suppose to mean?” Naruto nervously asks, as he did not like the sound of Kakashi's last statement.

 

“Well to put it simply Naruto. If you try to back out of this mission, I'll have the Hokage give a paid one-month vacation to Teuchi and Ayame Ichiraku and close down their restaurant for that entire time. Tell me Naruto, is failure to complete this mission worth not having ramen for thirty days?” Kakashi confidently replies.

 

`Thirty days without ramen! I can barely go three hours without ramen. There's no way I could survive that long without ramen. I've got to do this. Plus Kakashi Sensei's right, I would hurt Hinata if I didn't show up tonight.' Naruto silently thought to himself before saying.

 

“Ok Kakashi Sensei, I accept the mission. I don't want to hurt Hinata.”

 

Kakashi smirked behind the mask as he watched Naruto march into the restaurant and over to Hinata. He wondered what was the motivating factor behind his change of heart, the loss of ramen or hurting Hinata. Kakashi decided to give Naruto the benefit of the doubt and go with the latter. He smiled as he watched the two embrace in a hug, and then Naruto deftly kiss her hand. At least Naruto had remembered some of the things he had advised him to do. Kakashi glanced at his watch and saw that he only had an hour of time left before he had to escort Kazekage Gaara back to the border. He decided that he would make a quick run over to Kurenai's apartment and with any luck catch her there. Before he leapt away, he turned back to look at Naruto and Hinata and saw how happy they appeared and quietly said to himself.

 

“Good luck you two, you both deserve as much happiness as you can get.”

 

True to his word, Naruto was a perfect gentleman in the restaurant and Hinata was having a wonderful time as they ate and talked. The only blemish to the evening seemed to be their waiter, a young man by the name of Sai. Who seemed to be paying an inordinate amount of attention to Hinata. Which was starting to cause a small amount of killing intent to slowly build in Naruto. Hinata saw and felt the rise in tension with Naruto and attempted to diffuse the situation by informing Sai that they had everything they required and didn't need his services anymore. Sai bowed to Hinata and walked to the back of the restaurant. There he pulled a drawing pad out and proceeded to sketch a detailed portrait of Naruto's face. When finished he put the pad away and took one last look at Hinata before returning to work with an evil smirk on his face. Meanwhile, two other Shinobi were attempting to conceal themselves outside a window that looked into the dining room of the restaurant. After a moment one of them said in an irritated voice.

 

“What are we doing here Kiba? This is pointless!”

 

“Hey just chill out Shino. We're just checking to make sure that Hinata is alright? I mean she's like our little sister, you know.”

 

“Of course she'll be alright, she's with Naruto. He would never do anything to hurt her.” Shino answers.

 

“Then its no big deal if we see for ourselves now is it?” Now quit your complaining and help me look for those two.” Kiba remarks, as he and Shino begin scanning the dining room.

 

“There's Naruto, but I don't see Hinata anywhere? She must have left already. That's good, because I'm going to kick Naruto's ass! Hinata's gone and he's still here chatting up some hot babe in the corner! Oh I'm going to make him pay when I see him again! How could he do this to Hinata?” Kiba angrily states.

 

“That is Hinata you idiot!” Shino replies.

 

“Your crazy, that's not Hinata. That's just some hot chick with really big knock - - Holy shit that is Hinata!” Kiba exclaims in mid sentence of his original statement, as he looks closer at the young girl. After a pause he says.

 

“Oh my God! I can't believe this! Is that what she's been hiding underneath her jacket all these years? Damn, I think they're bigger than Sensei's?” Kiba remarks.

 

“You may be right.” Shino says, when suddenly the two of them are blasted with a huge wave of killing intent and a very angry voice rings out and says.

 

“To what of Hinata's are you two referring that are bigger than Sensei's!”

 

Kiba and Shino are shaking as they apprehensively turn around and see their Sensei Yuuhi Kurenai standing behind them with her right eyebrow twitching a mile a minute and slowly grinding her teeth. They both know pain is coming as she raises her fist towards them and let's loose another blast of killing intent. Both Hinata and Naruto feel the wave of killing intent and Hinata activates her Byakugan to scan the area. After a moment, she focuses in on her Sensei dragging the unconscious bodies of her two teammates away for the window of the restaurant. She giggles to herself, but decides not to tell Naruto, as Kurenai seemed to have the situation well under control. Hinata would find out later exactly what had been going on, all she wanted to do now was continue this wonderful date with Naruto.

 

Back at the Hokage's office, Lady Tsunade finished reviewing the last report she had, and threw it onto the other reports that rose over a foot high on her desk. She flopped back into her chair and sighed heavily. This had been a very tiring and frustrating day for the Hokage. The news she had learned about the plans of the Akatsuki was very troubling, as well as having to deal with the growing Hiashi Hyuga problem. Those were the low points of day. The high points of the day were being able to place Hinata into a loving home. And her meeting with Kazekage Gaara with regards to a new treaty between the two nations had gone well, albeit nothing had been formalized yet. The Kazekage was going to recommend to the Suna council that they initiate formal treaty discussions between the Wind and Fire countries. As a show of good faith, Gaara had named his sister Temari as Suna's representative in Konoha for said treaty talks and would not be returning with him this evening to the Wind nation. Tsunade looked at the clock, which read 8:44pm and then at the pile of mail sitting on her desk that she had yet to go through. She sighed and thought to herself.

 

`Well if their isn't anything too damn important in this mess, maybe I can get out of here at nine o'clock when Kakashi arrives to escort Gaara back?'

 

Tsunade then began to sort through the mail until she came across two envelopes and stopped. One was addressed to herself, while the other was addressed to Naruto, but both in the same handwriting. She set Naruto's envelope aside and opened hers and began reading. Tsunade's eyes suddenly grew wide and her face became flushed as she bolted from her chair and cried out.

 

“Sakura, you stupid little fool! Shizune, I need every available Jounin, ANBU, and Hunter-Nins we have right now in the conference room in the next 15 minutes!”

 

“Why Lady Tsunade, what has happened?” Shizune hurriedly asked as she rushed into the room.

 

“I'll inform you along with everyone else shortly. Right now release every single messenger falcon into the village to alert all the Shinobi. This is a Class A security alert, now go!” Tsunade shouted to her assistant.

 

As Tsunade watched Shizune run out of the room, she slumped back down into her chair, and stared at the mysterious letter she was holding in her shaking hand and said to herself.

 

“Why Sakura, why didn't you listen? God help you Sakura, because I fear you're going to need it!”

 

(Time Skip 3 Hours Ahead)

 

Sakura was physically exhausted from long trip to her desired location. Mentally, all she could think of was reaching the one person who would make everything in her life better again. This one thought seemed to give her a boost of energy, as she made her way through the forest. Suddenly, she broke through the trees into a small clearing and stopped. Their sitting on a log on the other side was a young man with onyx colored hair in a blue shirt and white shorts. Sakura could almost swear her heart skipped a beat as she gazed upon him with loving tear filled eyes. There he was, there was the man she loved and who loved her. There was the one who was going to bring joy back into her life again. Sakura thought to herself as she threw off her backpack and began running towards him. Her voice was so choked with emotion all she could cry out as she ran was.

 

“Sasuke!”

 

 

Authors Note: A pretty rough day for Naruto and the gang huh? Up next, the long awaited ominous Chapter 13. A lot of the fans of this story have PM me about when was Sasuke going enter the picture. Well here it comes, and if you're a fan of Sasuke you're probably not going to like it! Be prepared for one of the most darkest, twisted, and evil portrayals your ever going to read. Of course now that I have said this, I've got to deliver it. So expect at least a 3-week wait on it. Between work and life in general, it's hard to find the time to work on the story. But most of the readers have been patient and I thank you all for that. Once again, thanks for all the great reviews both from the old and new fans of the story. If anyone wants to discuss the story in greater detail, just shoot me a PM. I enjoy talking about the story with the readers who really have an interest in it. I'll try to respond back to you as quickly as I can. To everyone, take it easy!

 

Kingkakashi