My Chibi Dobe

Chapter 13 “I See Everything but My Heart”

Training with Naruto and his ninken rookies had been a lot more than he expected. He ended up having to have Iruka help him home after Sakura checked him over to make sure there were no serious injures. She told Iruka just to make sure the wounds were properly washed and tightly bandaged and he would be alright. That would have been fine if it weren’t for Iruka’s homemade first-aid creams.

“Ow! Ruka, that stings.” He hurt everywhere and in places he didn’t know he could get hurt.

“Stop whining Kashi. This is what you get for picking a fight with my five year-old son.” Iruka glared had his husband as he slapped a band-aid on one of the smaller cuts.

“Ow! I wasn’t picking a fight with Naruto I was testing his skills. I needed to know how bad this memory repression is. The Akatsuki is still out there and we need to know our advantages. I was also testing his ninken they were also a surprise I didn’t think they would be so elemental.”

“Yes, setting your pants on fire with one bite was rather funny.”

“I think that white one gave me frostbite.” Kakashi said waving the hand that was once incased in ice. Yes, it had been an interesting training session.

“I’m not surprised Naruto has very elemental chakra and can manipulate the air around him. Bonding with the pups must have awakened the sleeping elements within them.”

“That’s what I think happen.” Kakashi agreed as he gritted his teeth as more antiseptic cream was applied. “Iruka, Naruto remembers.”

“He what?” the chunin paused in treating his husband.

“He remembers everything but his mind is split in two. Today you saw our Naruto the trained warrior fighting. I needed to see how long he could hold his own. It seems that he has been holding back. He was showing all these skills that I have never seen before.”

“I know; he has hidden himself for so long in order to protect us.”

“‘Protect us?’ what do you mean Iruka?”

“The Villagers fear Naruto and feared his desire to be a ninja. When he started showing sign of strength and intelligence they would run to the Hokage claiming the Kyuubi was breaking its seal. They wanted to take Naruto away from me and have him caged up like an animal.” Iruka shuttered at the memory as he tried to hold back the tears. “Eventually the Hokage and I decided it would be better to hide his talents. I told Naruto never to train at the public training grounds and if others saw him to pretend that everything was too hard to do.”

“So when I took him has a genin he wasn’t really the Dead last of the class?”

“No far from it. It fact only the Hokage and myself knew he was equal to Sasuke in strength and intelligence. That’s why I was so worried when you were to be his teacher. I thought that you would fail him just as his other teachers had because he had to hide his true talents. He was also worried that you would baby him if you were his teacher, but I assured him that know one would know you were his other foster parent because you always were away on missions.”

“I’m sorry for that Ruka. I should have been there more for both of you. There were times I would stop by and watch you both from the window hiding from your view. You both would look so happy that I felt feel like I would be an intrusion in your world.”

“Oh Kashi, you were never an intrusion. We may have seemed happy but we both missed you very much.” Iruka smiled sadly as he tied the last of the Jonin’s bandages.

“Even with my absence you raise a wonderful son and a strong powerful Shinobi.” Kakashi smiled as he pulled the smaller man closer to him. “And I think you deserve a reward for your hard work.

“Oh? And what did you have in mind?” the chunin blushed as a hand slipped under his shirt and a talented mouth made quick work of leaving love bites all over his neck.

“Hmmm… I’m sure I can find something you might like.” The jonin smirked as he pinched the caramel nipple in between his fingers.

“Oh Kashi…” was all Iruka could think of as husband began removing his clothes.

“Shhh… Ruka…” The silver haired Nin smirked enjoying how his beloved arched against his touch.

“Well Bandit it seems you finally got over that fear of commitment.”

“Eeep!” Iruka squeaked quickly covering himself, before running into the bathroom.

“Shuichiro. To what do I owe to the displeasure of your visit and it better be good.”

“Displeasure is right that little dolphin won’t be giving you any tonight.”

“Shuichiro.” Kakashi growled his hand sparking with chakra ready to Chidori the stupid perverted weasel at a moment’s notice.

“I bring you greetings from my master. He says it’s important.”

“This letter is open.”

“I got bored on the way over and I needed something to read. Master is not as poetic as the Runt but he has interesting gossip.”

“Beat it before I make Ruka some weasel skin mittens.”

“Fine bandit or should I call you Blue for your now blue ba… Eek!” The weasel poof out of sight just barely missing the Chidori that came flying right at him.

Monday

The sunlight streamed in through the slightly parted curtains waking his tired body. He want to pull the blankets over his head and sleep the day away but years of discipline had him rising from his bed stretching his sore and aching body. He hadn’t hurt this bad since he was in recovery from fighting that spider freak. It took a huge beating for him to understand that you carve your own destiny in life that there was no such thing as fate. That being the case he was having a hell of a lot of damn coincidences lately. He heard someone softly sing as they passed by his door.

‘Well at least someone’s happy.’ He thought as he made his way to the shower. He sighed when the hot water hit his sore and battered muscles. In the end it was all worth it because she finally had her precious person. The dog boy had gotten stronger since their genin years. He should have remembered that the dog handler had experience with the gentle-fist fighting style after years of training with his shy cousin. This was one of the reasons of his defeat because of his over confidence that the newly promoted jonin couldn’t have his skills to match his own. Oh Kami was he wrong. He hissed as the soap burn some of his opened wounds that had yet to heal. Truthfully he should have gone to the clan medic right after the spar but pride kept him from limping if not crawling away in front of the clan, his team and all of rookie nine that had come to see the fight for his cousin’s honor.

He was not looking forward to this week of watching the chibi. He sighed as he left the shower and dressed readying himself for what looked to be a long week ahead of him. Not only would they be watching the Kyuubi container but they were also playing host to the Kazekage for Suna. Normally he wouldn’t have minded hosting to the visitor from the land of sand. In fact he preferred the silent red head to the other sand siblings because he could relate to the sleep deprived teen. They were both bound by fate… I mean circumstances beyond their control, to their way of life. His was to sever his clan’s main family and the Kazekage to contain the one tailed raccoon for all his life. He knew that they both had, had a very lonely existence, maybe that’s why he like being around him when he came to Konoha, somehow the world felt a little less lonely.

“Knock, Knock, Knock.”

“Hai.” He was pulled from his thoughts as he answered the timid knock.

“Nii-san, F-f-f-father would like to s-s-speak with us in his study.” She may have gained confidence as a ninja but her self-esteem within the clan had not changed.

“I will be down in a moment Hinata-sama.” Shutting off the light he made his way to his room. He would have to wrap his bandages a bit tight to support his sprained wrist and possibly twisted ankle. He sighed maybe he should stop by the hospital and get his wrist and ankle looked at before he picked up the chibi but taping will have to do for now. Once he his injuries were hidden he made his way to his uncle’s office. He was surprised so see his grandfathers were there as well as his uncle and cousins.

“This week we are not only housing the Uzumaki child but we will be hosting the Kazekage. It is very important that he is comfortable in his stay with us because we not only represent our clan but all of Konoha as well.”

“Hiashi is correct you must treat him with respect and do not disgrace this clan. We are placing the Kazekage and, against my wishes, the demon child in the rooms next to Neji.”

“Father, Uzumaki-san is not a demon. We have been over this before and I will not have you saying it around the child. I am the head of this clan now; you no longer have a say in how I guide this clan. You are not to go anywhere near him while he is staying here.” Hiashi glared at his father before returning his attention to his children. “As I understand it many of the other parents have been explaining Uzumaki-san’s past in order for you all to better care for him.”

“Hiashi I disapprove of this. They do not need to know of your wife’s and brother’s evolvement with the Kyuubi child.”

“Father…”

“Nabugato, Misaki was my daughter and I know she would want her daughters to know of the love and kindness the she bestowed on a vulnerable child. Even though Hizashi was your son he was also my son-in-law I believe he would want his son to know of the destiny that was outside his service to this clan.”

“Tanaka is correct they have a right to know and understand the child while he is with us.” The clan leader agreed with his father-in-law making his own father very angry.

“Fine since you, do not want my views on this arrangement I will leave.” They all waited for the elder Hyuuga to leave before continuing with their meeting.

Neji was stunned there were no other words for it; he had just watched his grandfather, elder of the branch family interrupt the head of the clan and talk against his other grandfather of the main branch. Then there was the fact that his branch grandfather was also grandfather to his two cousins as well, but this news didn’t seem to stun Hinata as much as it did Hanabi. While this may have been shocking for all the three children did not show their emotions and kept silent while the elders argued among themselves.

“It’s alright Hiashi-san; just let it go he’s gone now.”

“You’re right Tanaka-san; its just father will always try to rule the clan.” The Clan leader sighed before turning his attention to his children. “It is most important that you three make sure that Naruto never goes near your grandfather while he is here, it will be safer for everyone.”

“Nabugato has never accepted Naruto-kun as a boy who was also a victim in the Kyubbi attack but as the demon himself.” Tanaka sighed sadden by his cousins bitterness.

“The Kyuubi’s attack on the village was hard on the whole village. We lost many in our clan and father lost his wife. That night at the council meeting he was pressing along with Uchiha to have the baby executed. Hizashi and I fought against it and over ruled him as head of the main and cadet houses. In the end the Sandaime overruled everyone and Naruto was allowed to live. We left that night to buried our fallen clan members and grieve.” Hiashi voice trailed off as if he was lost in the past.

“We didn’t see Naruto-kun again until shortly after Neji-kun’s second birthday.” Tanaka smiled as he noticed his grandson fight the blush the lightly tinted his cheeks. “As you know genin exams are twice a year just like chunin exams. That winter Iruka-san passed his genin exam with high scores and assigned to and elite team unfortunately this also took time away from Naruto. On most D-ranks he would end up taking the chibi with him as no one wanted to watch the baby who they thought was a demon. It wasn’t until that summer Hizashi was in the mission tower when he heard an argument in the Hokage’s office.”

Flashback*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“But Hokage-sama I can’t take this mission I have no one to watch Naruto. The villagers hate him and me. Kakashi-san is still away on a mission, and you have your duties so I can’t ask you to watch him for three weeks. I just can’t take this mission with the team!”

“Iruka-kun you have to you will never get stronger if you don’t leave the village. Orochimaru-sensei says you need more experience and you can’t get that here in the village. I’m sorry but you can not deny this mission.”

“Excuse me Hokage-sama?” both the Hokage and genin were startled by the interruption.

“Hizashi what can I do for you?” The Sandaime asked turning to the jonin.

“I thought that maybe I could watch Naruto-kun while Iruka is away. I’m sure Neji won’t mind having some one to play with.”

“Are you sure Hizashi? Nabugato will not be pleased to have him at the Hyuuga compound.”

“No he wouldn’t but my father never wanders over to the branch apartments. He believes all cadets are beneath him, even his own son.” The smile dimmed in Hizashi eyes but only just a bit as he smiled at the young genin. “Naruto will be safe with us.”

“Very well, then that is an acceptable solution. Don’t you think so Iruka?”

“Arigato Hyuuga-san.” Iruka bowed. “Your help is greatly appreciated.”

End Flash Back*~*~*~*~*~*

“Iruka-san was in need of a sitter for the chibi as not many were willing to watch the host of the Kyuubi. Also there was not many that could be trusted with his care either, so Hizashi offer to take the chibi for the duration of his mission knowing he would be well protected in the branch housing in the compound. It was an amazing three weeks that I will never forget. Naruto-kun was a happy baby who was curious and could light up a room with his smile. He even got you, Neji, to laugh and smile. We had never seen you laugh out loud like that or smile since then. He was your very first friend if not you best friend.” Tanako smiled at shock look in his grand children’s faces.

“My Brother took an active role in the Umino-Uzumaki family after that. He would visit them and offer to spar with young Iruka-san. When Naruto got old enough he taught them both how lower their chakra to avoid detection from even the Byakugan. This helped Naruto-kun as he got older because there were very few Shinobi that did not see Kyubbi in the face of the boy and ones that did would seek out the boy by his chakra.” Hiashi hesitated before continuing. “After My brother died I saw Iruka-san and Naruto-kun at the funeral, on the hill far way from the clan both dress in black and in deep morning for my brother. They waited till all of us had gone before paying their respects to his grave. After that day I decided to honor my brother by watching over them from a distance. It wasn’t until after Hanabi was born that Misaki had run into boy in the marketplace and brought him home.” The three cousins looked at their clan Leader curiously. It seems there was more to the story than just Misaki bringing home the orphan boy, but none protested it.

“He was quiet and shy but eventually Misaki got him talking about his life with Iruka-san and how he had various jobs around the villages. My wife was a loving and companionate woman and she decided to help the boy, by giving him a gardening job. He would tend her private garden that she kept between the branch and main houses and she would pay him 10 yen a week. Masaki enjoyed the boy’s company and would laugh at his exaggerated stories, and hug him not caring how dirty he was from working in the dirt. She told me once that sometimes a mask of happiness is a mask for loneliness and she was determined to show the boy he was loved.” Hiashi fell silent it was hard to talk about his beloved wife after so long because the pain of losing her was still fresh in his heart even after all these years.

“When Misaki passed away we were all heart broken and Naruto did not return to the compound or so we thought.” Tanako picked up the story dabbing his eyes as he remember the lost of his youngest daughter. “A month after the funeral I went to the visit the graves of my children and I was surprised to find all three graves cover in planted flowers. I knew Naruto-kun had to be the one to do this because none of us would ever think of doing such a wonderful thing. I returned home and headed straight for Misaki’s garden where I found it had recently been weeded and watered. The Garden thrived and my heart felt lighter knowing someone was keeping my daughter spirit live for all to see. Since then the garden is left on it’s own for Naruto-kun to tend. No one knows when he’s there only that he has been, because of the blooming flowers.”

“While Naruto-kun is here it will be up to you three to watch him and make sure he is never to encounter your Grandfather Nabugato. If by chance that happen than make sure they are never left alone. My father knows old and dangerous techniques and he will not hesitate to use them on the boy. Neji I want you to greet the Kazekage when he arrives at the gate today. You will be his escort while he is with us. Hinata I want you and Hanabi to make sure their rooms are ready before they get here.”

“Hai, Father.” The girls bowed.

“Hai, Hiashi-sama.” Neji bowed.

“Father, how will we be able to keep track Naruto-san if he can lower his chakra to where Byakugan can’t even see it?” asked Hanabi. She didn’t know there was a way to lower one’s chakra.

Neji thought the same thing; he thought keeping tracked of the chibi was going to be a lot harder than he first anticipated. I hurt to know that when he lost his father he lost the brilliance of his father’s teachings. True his was a genius and he unlocked many of family’s secret techniques but it wasn’t the same as when your own parent was to show you their own developed jutsus.

“W-w-we can track his ninken. T-t-they are young and untrained so they are easy to locate. A-a-also Kakashi’s Ninken Oushi is guarding him as well, because he often runs off.” Hinata replied quietly. No matter how much confidence she had gain as a ninja she was still self-conscious when facing her father.

“When did he get ninken, Hinata-sama? I didn’t see them yesterday.” Neji asked as he wondered just what had been going on with the Uzumaki since he turned Chibi.

“T-T-Tsume-san gave them to him on Wednesday night. Y-y-you didn’t notice because they were sleeping in his back pack. Naruto-kun has been training with them every day and they were really worn out.” Hinata smiled softly as she remembered peeking in on the sleeping pups. Naruto looked just as tired but refused to sleep through an important battle between his friends.

“Very well then, you all have your duties. You are dismissed but be back before dark as we are having a formal dinner in honor of the Kazekage.”

“Hai.” The three cousins stood and bowed to the clan leader and their grandfather before leaving to prepare for their guests.

“They have all grown strong Hiashi you should be proud.”

“I am, but in my grief I had made many mistakes especially with Neji.”

“Hizashi would not want you to beat yourself up about it. You were following your father’s lead and trying to be his perfect heir, just like Hinata tries to be your perfect Heiress. She knows she might never reach your high expectations but she tries because she loves you, just like you love your father despite how he has treated you. Neji is the same as his father striving to prove the branch side of the clan is just as important as the main. Even Hanabi tries to keep up with the older two because you have praised her so high that she’s afraid to let you down. All of you thought it was fate that made you this way but that battle at the chunin exams where Naruto-kun fought Neji proved to you that destiny is what you make of it. Everyone thought he was going to lose but Naruto changed his fate by believing in himself. It was a lesson well learned and now your children are making their own Shinobi way. You as well have changed for the better Hiashi so do not dwell on the past and enjoy the future.”

“You are right Tanaka-san. Hinata has found her precious someone and Hanabi is training for the upcoming jonin exams, but I worry about Neji. He is the shining example of the Hyuuga clan but there is no joy in his heart.”

“He has reached his dream of surpassing the main branch. While the victory was a big accomplishment it was very hollow. Naruto-kun showed him winning isn’t everything and that with out someone in your heart to fight for.”

“Hai. Naruto-kun has surely turned this village upside-down his father would be proud.”

“That is true. I know that Iruka-san and Kakashi are very proud of their foster child. Hiashi, I know Hizashi would be proud of you and Neji for making the changes in the clan. Now the question is what would you do if Neji left to find his precious person?”

“I would not stop him and who ever he would bring to the clan would be welcomed. I will not lose the last piece to my brother’s heart. My father’s rein is long since been over; he shall not interfere with Neji life any longer. Once Naruto-kun has reached his dream I shall honor my promise.”

Flashback *~*~*~*~*

“Hey old man you sent for me.” A moody thirteen year-old barked at the clan leader.

“Uzumaki-san I know Umino-san has taught you manners.” Hiashi glared.

“I give respect to those who deserve it. And right now I’m not seeing any reason to respect you.”

“I see. Neji told you of the clan’s rules during the exam. Nothing has changed or will as these keep our blood line safe.”

“That’s bull shit and you know it. Neji almost killed Hinata because of his anger and hatred of the caged bird seal on him and how it led to his dad’s death!” Naruto yelled his chakra flared with his anger. “Why did you call me here old man?”

“I called you here to thank you.” Hiashi showed no emotion but inside he was laughing at the genin at a total lost of what to do or say.

“Nani?” all his anger had completely left and he was clueless as to why the leader of the Hyuuga clan would thank him.

“Since my Misaki passed away I ignored my children in favor of running the clan. Yesterday I was reminded that my children are more then just tools to the clan’s strength. I saw Neji’s hatred of me and the main branch. I had forgotten about my brother’s child and that is unforgivable. As of today I will be making changes in the clan so the next generation will not suffer our mistakes again.”

“Does that mean you gonna take the Seal off the branch family?”

“No I can not do that. It is there to protect us as well as them.”

“Bullshit! Neji and the others are slaves to the main branch! When I’m Hokage I’m making you take off that fucking seal and set Neji free!”

“I know a child like you could not understand the need to protect a blood limit as powerful as the Byakugan, but I’ll make you a promise. Once you become Hokage I will remove the seal from all branch members of this Clan.”

“It’s a deal Old man! Just you wait and see I will be Hokage!”

End Flashback ~*~*~*~*~*~*

“I know you are only my son-in-law but I’m very proud of you.” Tanaka smiled softly before leaving the stunned clan leader to prepare for the in coming guests.

XxXxXxXx

The trees rustled softly as the three Sand siblings made there way to the gates of Konoha. Gaara inwardly sighed as he watched his sister and brother as they increased their pace the closer they got to the village hidden in the leaves. He could understand why Temari was in a hurry to return to Konoha but he was at a loss as to why Kankurou was in a hurry to return. He just silently kept in step with the two rushing siblings. He was glad that his siblings were happy because they deserved it after what their father had put them through while they were growing up. Temari was ignored because she was born a female and to the Forth Kazekage she was of no use except watching over her younger brother. She also received the blunt force of his anger should Kankurou fail anything. Kankurou use to be a happy child filled smiles but smiles were a sign of weakness and he received a punch in his face for such a display. Gaara knew his brother and sister had feared him and hated him when they first met. They feared the demon he carried and they hated that he was the reason their mother was dead.

Their hate fuel the Shukaku and froze his harden heart. The battle he had with Naruto opened his eyes to the pain and suffering of others. He saw that even though he was raised in a village full of hate that the love of one could cure the hurt of many. He saw how his siblings had suffered just as much as he had and he took small hesitant steps to change that. Now they were closer happier with their chosen paths. Unfortunately Gaara noticed his road was destined to be a lonely one for who could love the monster that lay sleeping inside of him.

“Gaara it looks like your escort is waiting at the gate.” announced Kankurou as they approached the gate.

“Hn.”

“I believe that is Hyuuga Neji waiting for you. Is that who you will be staying?” Temari asked quietly as she picked up the pace once again. She was near the deer sanctuary and wanted to go off and seek out her lazy cry baby.

“Hai. Naruto is staying there this week and that is where I will be.” Gaara had notice that they had picked up their speed. They were so obvious it was sickening but he could blame them. Truth was he could have made this trip on his own but his dear caring siblings didn’t dare let their Kazekage/little brother make the two day trip all by himself. “Since My escort is there to greet me you both are dismissed you know where to find me if you need me.”

“Are you sure Otouto?” Temari asked softly. As much as she would like to have run off in search of her lazy shadow Nin she didn’t want to leave her brother and Kazekage open for an attack or feeling like they were abandoning him.

“I am fine Hyuuga is my escort and guard while I’m in the village so you are free to go.”

“As you wish my Kazekage.” Temari and Kankurou bowed before taking off.

Gaara sighed as he walked on ward. He wondered what this week would bring with his younger adopted brother. From what His sister had told him, Naruto was a happy strong willed child and despite his outward louder older self Naruto was really a quite and polite boy. Even if he could be somewhat mischievous and Temari pointed out the chibi’s match-making plot. Could he keep the Child happy despite his bloody and lonely past? That was his greatest worry. Naruto and he had similar upbringings but Naruto turned out happy and he turned out to be the monster he held prisoner. There was a brief time he felt loved even if it was an act he still felt it. He would just have remember that feeling and share it with Naruto because there was no one else who would accept it.

“Kazekage-sama.” Gaara stopped startled by the bowing jonin. He had been so deep in his thought that he almost walked right passed his escort.

“Hyuuga.”

“This way, the Hokage is waiting for you.” Neji gestured for the Leader of the Sand to follow. Gaara allowed himself to be led to the tower but he couldn’t help but notice the strained walk of the taller teen. It was if he was trying to hide an injury possibly to his foot or leg.

“Are you alright?”

“Hai. Why do you ask?”

“You are walking very stiff and seem to favor you right leg.”

“It is nothing Kazekage-sama. I had a spar yesterday and my muscles are stiff that is all.” Neji replied not looking at the red-headed teen. He did not want the Kazekage to see the slight blush across his face.

“Hn.” Gaara thought there was more to the injury than the Hyuuga prodigy let on but he did not press the matter. Instead he followed the injured jonin to the tower where his brother awaited them.

XxXxXxXx

“Looks Like you had a very full week Naruto.” Tsunade stated with a slight awe to her tone as she read the report on his stay at the Inuzuka compound. “You helped a Ninken whelp her litter on Monday, you went for tests and did training with ran a the Inuzuka clan Tuesday, you let a pack of Ninken run through the village, and bonded with two Ninken on Wednesday, training with Kiba Akamaru, and Sasuke on Thursday, and then Sparing with Kakashi and his pack on Friday.”

“Yup it fun and hawd work.” Naruto beamed as he played with his puppies on the floor.

“He used Rasengan and Kage Bunshin?!” The Blond Sanin shouted as she read the finer details of the report. The three jonin slightly shifted uncomfortably where they stood as their commander and chief glared at them. Kiba scratched the back of his and gave a guilty smile while Kakashi hid behind his Icha Icha Paradise and Sasuke kept his focused on his Dobe. “Well? Is anyone going to anyone going to answer?”

“Well Tsunade-sama it’s like this… He was using the Basics of each attack against us.” Kiba tried to explain. Even he was amazed by the skills the chibi had.

“Explain.”

“Well uh… against me and Akamaru he increased his speed circling us in his chakra then he had the pups mimic him till they closed in on us with the built up chakra and blasted us off the training ground.” Kiba blushed embarrassed to be beaten by a chibi.

“He also has awakened the elementals in his ninken. In his battles with me and my pack we were also surrounded with the chakra cyclone as well but as Naruto poured his natural control of wind into it to strengthen his hold on us the pups flared there chakra releasing heat and cold in to the chakra circle as well. After we landed from being shot into the air all of my pack had either fire burns or freezer burns. Another way they are able to channel this elemental chakra is in their bite. I received bite that turn my hand to a block of ice and a bite that gave me first degree burns.” Kakashi replied not willing to admit the seat of his pants was set on fire.

“What about the Kage Bunshin?” Tsunade inquired noting that Kakashi left out where the fire pup had bit him.

“In his spar with me managed to make shadow clones instead of his normal solid clones of not only himself but his ninken as well. He might not have full knowledge of what he has learned in training but, his body and chakra does know the basic principles of these jutsus; even at such a small age.” Sasuke stated before turning his attention back to his Dobe on the floor.

“I see. It’s good to know that he can defend himself if he needs but let’s hope that won’t happen. Kurai Sukora is nearly complete in her tests. Soon she’ll be working on a cure but until then were going to up the security around the village.”

“Hai.” The three jonin bowed.

“Tsunade-sama the Kazekage and his escort Neji are here.” Shizune smiled as she led the two into the office.

“Greetings Gaara, Neji. Naruto is ready to go but first here is the file on Naruto you will need it for his care.” Tsunade smiled pointing the file that now took up three and a half folders. “Record any memory lapses or increased headaches he might have if it becomes serious bring him to the hospital right away.”

“Of course.” Gaara replied. For once he was glad he didn’t sleep it was going to take at least two days to read everything in those bulging folders. “Naruto are you ready?” he asked turning to the chibi who gave him a bright smile.

“I ready. I got Puppies to twain!” The chibi shouted happily holding Koori up for Gaara to see.

Neji’s face remained impassive as he watched Naruto show off his new ninken. He was tired in pain and now had to guard the Leader of the Sand and watch over his Chibi best friend and three ninken. ‘Yes this is going to be a very long week.’

Tuesday

The sun’s morning rays once again woke him from his less than restful sleep. Sighing he rose from the bed and limped his way to the shower. Yesterday had been a long and informative day. He learned of his father’s other life as a mentor to Iruka-sensei and Naruto. Also skimmed over the details over the past week of the chibi’s stay at the Inuzuka compound was impressive. Naruto seemed to be quite the mischievous match maker, but it was the information on his fighting skills that caught his interest. He knew he shouldn’t have done any fighting yesterday but he just had to see what Naruto had been holding back. During the chunin exam his pride didn’t let him notice what he could clearly see now.

Naruto had held himself back and had allowed himself to be hit in the chunin exams. He guessed that Naruto didn’t know the full extent of the Hakke Rokujūyon Shō blocking his chakra points. Thus he used Kyuubi’s chakra to break free of the blockage. Once free he should amazing skill strength and intelligence. After it was revealed that he was the container of the Nine-tailed fox demon he had just assumed that the fight was won by Kyuubi not Naruto, but he was wrong. All the skill and intelligence came from Naruto Kyuubi was just letting him borrow a bit of chakra. To confirm this he sparred with the chibi causing his injuries to worsen. He did not regret it because he saw a brief glimpse of the old Naruto in their battle and after he could see the smiling chibi that was once his first friend. He sighed as he turned the shower and returned to his room to ready for the day. As he began wrapping his wrist and ankle he wondered if he would be able sneak off to get it treated.

“Nii-chan?” A blond chibi asked as he poked his head in.

“Hai.” Neji had a ghost of smile as he watched Naruto scurry in with his pups tailing behind him.

“Ohayoo, Neji-nii-chan. Hinata-nee-chan said that breakfast is ready.”

“Alright I’ll be done in a minute.”

“Gaawa- nii-chan not in his room.”

“He does not sleep Naruto he might be taking a walk in the garden, or around the training grounds.” Neji ruffled the child’s golden locks.

“Okay I we find him! Come on Kaji, Koori!” and the three ran off.

That was another thing that happened yester day the formal dinner for the arrival of the Kazekage. The clan was quiet and stiff as always until Naruto entered the room and asked why everyone was sitting on the floor; Neji chuckled at the memory. It seemed that the chibi had never experienced a traditional Japanese formal dinner. Naruto also didn’t like the quiet meal so he decided to break the silence by telling everyone about his day and the training he had been doing with his ninken. It was a dinner to remember as Naruto got almost everyone smiling. His grandfather Nabugato was very upset that the meal was disturbed by the demon child. Nabugato tried to corner the chibi after dinner while his uncle was distracted with the Kazekage. Fortunately Hanabi was close enough to pull Naruto outside asking him to show her his puppies.

Neji walked to the kitchen biting back the pain of putting his full weight on his injured ankle. Breakfast was usually severed informally in the kitchen between Hinata, Hiashi, Hanabi and himself. But with the two extra guests they might not and sit in the formal dining room. If he had to sit at on his knees again in traditional style again he just might die from the pain. Luck was on his side as there were two extra place settings at the kitchen table. After bowing to his uncle he took place at the table and waited for Hinata to serve Breakfast. Naruto and his pups came running in with a slower more sedate Gaara following him. Once everyone was seat and the pups were settled with Oushi, Hinata served nori and grilled fish with a side of Miso soup.

“So Gaara-sama what are your plans while you are with us?” Hiashi inquired while sipped his morning tea.

“I have no official duties to perform, so my time will be mostly spent with Naruto. I have heard that the Shinobi from Yorugakure are here and I would like to meet the one in charge of Naruto’s treatment.”

“Neji will take you both to the hospital after breakfast. That is where they are most likely to be. Hinata, who is in charge of Naruto’s treatment?”

“H-h-her name is Kurai Sukora. She rarely leaves the labs but she is staying at the Aburame compound with her team.” Hinata replied quietly as she poured her father more tea.

“We gonna see Emwald?”

“Hai.” Gaara nodded as the chibi gave him a bright smile. Neji sat quietly wondering is he would be able to see a medic Nin before he ended up breaking his ankle. That being said the rest of the meal passed pleasantly enough with the happy chatter of the five-year-old keeping everyone entertained.

XxXxXxXx

The hardest part of finding a cure was finding the right amount of each ingredient so you can cure them without killing them. Sukora was hunched over her microscope watching the reaction to the mutated blood sample. She had been there since the crack of dawn analyzing blood samples and herb analysts of the local fare. Luckily she brought all of ingredients she could from the Shadow lands just in case local herbs wouldn’t be enough. They only problem was testing everything. Ryuu and Phoenix had been stressed trying to get her to at least take a break to eat, so she kicked them out of the lab for their troubles. She was a little more than annoyed when three unwanted chakra signatures entered her lab.

“I’m busy Uzumaki. You and your little friends will have to come back later.” Sukora said not bothering to look up from her work.

“Kurai-san, I have brought the Kazekage of Sunagakure here to meet with you.” Neji said quickly to avoid a conflict between the three villages. He was in pain and the last thing he need was a small war in the middle of the hospital.

Sukora sat up putting her dark shades in place and stood up turning to them. She had her Chookaku Shiryoku active and she could see the chakra forms of the three boys in her lab. Naruto’s was a light purple do to Kyuubi’s chakra mixing with his. The Hyuuga had a dark blue chakra that was mostly concentrated in his eyes given his blood limit. Gaara’s on the other hand was a dark blue with swirling white. ‘So this was the Shukaku container Naruto spoke of. Someone has mess with the seal a few times but it seems to be holding steady.’

“It’s an Honor Kazekage-sama.” Sukora bowed.

“Kurai.”Gaara nodded. “I want to know about Naruto’s condition.”

“Of course Kazekage-sama.” Sukora said picking up the clipboard next to and ran her fingers over the paper. This caused the sand leader to narrow his eyes at the Kunoichi. He had heard from his brother of the girls blindness but he still questioned her ability to treat his now chibi brother. “Uzumaki-san’s test shows elevated sodium levels that prevented the potion that caused his transformation form killing him. The Potion given to him was supposed to subdue a Jinchūriki but the kidnappers over dosed him because Naruto is a powerful Shinobi even without the Fox inside him. His system went into shock and his chakra tried to expel the toxins but it cause a mutation of the potion revering all his cells to that of a five year-old child. Now that I have isolated the problem I am taking the steps to cure him.”

“How long before you have a cure?”

“If what need is in the area than I estimate 2-3 weeks.”

“Hn.” Gaara would not say it out loud but he was impressed with the Ninja from the Darkness.

“See Gaawa! I told you Emwald was really smart.” Naruto beamed before running and jumping into the arms of the leather clad Kunoichi.

“Thank you for the compliment Uzumaki-san.”

“No!”

“No?” they all looked dumbfounded at the chibi’s outburst.

“No Usumaki! I you Blue Eyes! You my Emwald!” Pouted Naruto.

“I am at work.” If Sukora had not trained within an inch of her life not to blush she would have done a perfect imitation of a strawberry. “It would be unprofessional for me to call you Blue eyes.”

“Fine afta work!”

“Yes after work.”

“Can you hewp Neji-nii-chan? He hurt but he pwetends it not there.” Naruto gave her a pleading look.

“Naruto, I am fine. We should be leaving Kurai-san to her work.” Neji paled ‘How did Naruto find out?’ he thought he was doing a fair job covering his injures.

“Yes, you should but I doubt when you leave here you will seek treatment for your broken ankle and sprained wrist.” Sukora said as she placed Naruto back down on the floor before turning to her medic bag. “Sit down on the table and remove your sandal and leg wrappings.”

“That is not necessary… OWWWW!” Neji’s protests were cut off by something hitting his ankle in just the right spot to cause him to fall in agonizing pain landing him in the arms of the Kazekage.

“You were saying?” Sukora asked as she held another small eraser in her finger tips ready to throw it at injured ankle if he protested one more time.

“H-h-how? I d-d-didn’t see you move?” Great now he was stuttering like Hinata and in front of Gaara. To add to his humiliation he was still held in the younger man’s arms.

“Training. Are you still denying treatment?”

“I…”

“He’ll accept treatment.”

“Good. Kazekage-sama please set him on the examination table.” Sukora nodded returning to her task of sorting her healing supplies.

Gaara swept the Hyuuga prodigy in his arms and walked over to the examination table. He set Neji down as if he were made of glass and the proceeded to remove the sandal and the leg wrapping. His hands moved gently over bruised flesh causing the faintest of flushes to grace Neji’s face. The red-head took no notice of this as his attention was focused on the injured ankle. It was twice the size of his fist and of a goriest coloration. For some reasoned it angered him that the Hyuuga cared so little about his health that he let his ankle get this bad.

“Gaara-sama…” the Byakugan used could fell the sudden anger coming for the Kazekage and tried to defuse the almost killing intent.

“We will talk of this later.” Gaara said in a low voice before moving out of the way for the Kurai.

“This will hurt to set so here’s a bit too bare down on.” Sukora stated as she shoved a leather strap in his mouth. “It seems this was a fracture and it broke under the strain of your full weight. I would say you got this injury on Sunday and I can tell from the swelling that you broke it last night.”

“Arghhhhh…” Before he could answer the deceptively strong Kunoichi snapped the bone back into place pouring something on it then she rewrapped before mending the break with her chakra and mending the sprain in his wrist.

“The green potion you rub on you ankle and wrist to reduce swelling and relax the muscles. It has a mild anesthetic to ease you pain for walking, but don’t strain yourself. The Blue potion is a calcium nutrient to repair the damage down by the break take a spoonful before meals till it’s all gone.” In the blink of an eye she was done healing him and she was shoving two small bottles at him.

“Arigato Kurai-san.”

“Hn.” She nodded before returning back to her work on the microscope.

“Thanks Emwald you the best!” Naruto Hugged the Kunoichi around the waist before following his guardians out.

‘No Blue Eyes you are the best. Without you there is no sun in this dark and bloody world.’ She thought before starting on the next blood sample.

XxXxXxXx

“Naruto, why don’t you go play in the Garden? I must speak with Hyuuga-san alone.”

“Okay Gaawa. Come on Koori, Kaji, I show you a secret pwace.” The chibi ran off leaving the two adults alone.

“Gaara-sama.”

“Neji-san, why did you not get you injury healed when you first got it?”

“I … I guess my pride just got the better of me.” Neji sat down on the pouch watching Naruto and his pups play under the watchful eye of Oushi. “I had a spar on Sunday against Hinata-sama’s boyfriend Kiba. He came here on Friday asking for permission to court her. My uncle said he would not allow it until he proved how strong he was in spar against me. So I lost in front of friends and the whole clan and my pride would not let me acknowledge that I had lost and was suffering such injures. I don’t regret the loss because Hinata-sama has someone to love and cherish her, but my pride does because I promised myself I would never lose again.”

“Hn.” Gaara removed his Gourd and took a seat beside the Hyuuga prodigy. “Pride can be a dangerous thing Neji-san.”

“In this clan it can suffocate you. Starting with my father’s pride in following his own path, and my pride in being better than the main branch, to my uncle’s pride in me, to protect his daughters. Then there is the pride of my grandfather of the main branch who wants this clan to surpass even that of the legendary Uchiha clan. Yes pride can kill you in this clan.” Neji never spoke so much about his misery before to anyone. ‘Maybe it’s the potion Kurai gave me. It relaxed more than my ankle muscles.’

“I know what it’s like to suffer under the presser of that kind of pride.” Gaara said slowly as if he was trying to find the right words to the memories that played out in his head. “My father’s pride was Sunagakure while his children came last on his list of priorities. His pride came at the cost of my mother’s life. She died to give birth to Shukaku I was just an afterthought. The demon inside me was a weapon for him to command and my brother and sister were his failed attempts at Shukaku. Temari was female and considered unsuitable to house Shukaku. Kankurou was born premature before they could seal Shukaku in. That left me the perfect vessel to take in his weapon. His pride killed their chances of happiness and it’s his pride I’m trying to erase and build a new Sunagakure and give back the joy that was stolen from my siblings. When the time comes I will sign the papers allowing Temari to move here to be with her precious person.” Gaara turned to a stunned Neji letting him see the truth of what he said in his eyes. “I know what pride can do to a person but the question is will you let it overwhelm you and rule your fate or will you stand against it and make your own?”

Neji Stared at the Kazekage not knowing what to say. He couldn’t argue against it and he couldn’t deny it. He wanted to say something but had no words but for the moment he was spared as a shout from across the yard broke the peace. Naruto was waving at them to come and play with him. The chibi and pups were in the corner of the yard making a huge mud puddle and rolling around in it as if they were pigs. Neji stood and called maid to bring fresh towels for after he hosed down the chibi. All of them would need a bath before dinner. Naruto was so happy and free he wondered what it would be like to feel that unbridled joy. Could he a caged bird fly free or were his wings to broken to try?

Wednesday

Naruto was up with the dawn and the pups followed working on their stealth. Last night’s talk with Big Naruto was informative it seems that he might have a little difficultly with his current targets. One never slept and the other a salve to his fate, how depressing can you get? But that was not going to stop him in his quest for them to be happy like his former targets.

“What are you doing up this early?” a voice called out making the three jump.

“Ohayoo Hanabi-chan.” Naruto smiled at the teen. “You grew big! I member you as baby.”

“Is that so? What else do you remember?”

“Bad nin took you. Hyuuga-san fight but lost. Bad Nin throw you I catch you. Then I give you to Hyuuga-san. She brings me here.”

“That’s enough Naruto-kun, go help Hinata with Breakfast.”

“Hai Hyuuga-sama.” Naruto turned and bowed to the clan Leader before running off with his pups to the kitchen.

“Father? Is what he said true I was taken Like Hinata?” Hanabi plead to her father for answers.

“Yes, it is true. You were only a week old when it happened. You mother had taken you to the Inuzuka compound to show you to Tsume, her former teammate. On her return she passed through that market place when a convicted ninja escaped from ANBU holdings. He took the cowards way and stole you from your mother’s arms. She fought to take you back but she was weak after giving birth and didn’t have her full strength. The Nin took to the roof tops and the ANBU quickly followed and once he was cornered he threw you off the roof top thinking the ANBU would try and save you so he could escape. That is not how the ANBU work the mission comes first and foremost always. Your mother saw you being thrown and thought you had been killed. That was until Naruto-kun walked up to her holding you in his arms. Misaki cried with joy and hugged you both and brought Naruto-kun home. She made him a huge dinner as a reward and invited Iruka-san to join in the celebration. After that she asked him to keep coming back.”

“He saved me.” She whispered before looking to her father. In an instant her world changed. It was like the cold shell around her heart was breaking to let in new light and emotions. She was alive because one child was willing to risk his life to save hers even though he did not know her. “Father, do you think one child can affect the world?”

“Years ago I would have said no.”

“And Now?”

“If that child is Uzumaki Naruto, than yes I believe it’s true.”

XxXxXxXx

The morning passed loudly as Naruto convince Hanabi to take the day off in training and helped him pull pranks on unsuspecting clan members. The replace the elders study scroll with paint by number scrolls. Then they took the training kunai and replaced them with rubber kunai. Then they hid whoopee cushions under everyone’s pillow in the formal dining room.

Hanabi and Naruto were practically holding their breath in an effort not to laugh at the domino effect as each of the clan members sat down to the sound of “PPPPHHHHHAAAAAATTTTT” The whole clan was red in the face with embarrassment until Hiashi broke the silence with his laughter. Soon the whole clan was laughing or chuckling and even Gaara had a small smile on his lips.

The only one not amused by the whole display was Nabugato. He was furious with the way the clan was behaving and in front of the visiting Kazekage. He stood from his seat and stormed out of the dining room in a rage. No one took notice of this as they were enjoying the free moment of laughter that swept through the clan. Once the laughter died out to warm smiles the meal passed with pleasant conversation.

“I never thought I would ever see my clan like that.” Neji said in awe.

“Yes, Naruto seems to have broken the code of silence that your clan holds dear.” Gaara commented with the ghost of a smile touching his lips.

Naruto’s laughter was infectious once the chibi started laughing it was hard not to join in. Right now the laughing chibi was running around in the starlight trying to catch the shooting stars that whizzed by over head. Gaara had never seen a meteor shower before as a child he was mostly kept indoors at night for fear Shukaku might break free. Neji suggested they come here after hearing one of his branch member cousins who was obsessed with astrology saying there was going to be a meteor shower that night.

“Naruto has certainly earned the title of number one surprise ninja. He should always be happy and free like this. I envy his look on life, no matter what has happen to him he still can smile. I remember once I thought he was weak because he was a failure in class and that he would be the last to ever to beat me. Then after he defeated me my eyes opened for the first time to his true strength, the strength of his heart. He wasn’t just battling me for Hinata-sama’s sake or to prove he was not the class failure I accused him to be, but he battled for me to free me from my hate and my self imposed destiny.” Neji smiled softly as he sat on the grass watching Naruto still trying to catch a star. He was startled a bit when the redhead sat down close next to him.

“Destiny is like pride, if you let it rule you if can be very dangerous if not lonely.”

“I know what you mean Gaara-sama.” The Byakugan user sighed as he looked to the sky above. “But I can’t help but wonder if the fates do plan for me to alone. Hinata-sama has found her love and I know it won’t be long before Hanabi-san has her precious person battling me for her heart. Then I where will I be but a babysitter for the future heirs of the clan.” Neji didn’t know what was wrong with him. It seemed whenever he was around the Kazekage he just ended up spilling his guts. All his feelings and fears just came tumbling out and there was nothing he could do to stop them.

“I gonna catch it!” was all the warning they got as a blond chibi size blur came barreling into them knocking Neji into Gaara, who instinctively wrapped his arms around the Hyuuga prodigy. “Oops! I sowwy!”

“I-i-it’s alright Naruto we’re fine. D-d-did you catch the star?” great he was blushing and stuttering like Hinata-sama again but there was nothing he could do as the redhead refused to release his hold on him.

“No I think I’m getting sleepy.”

“Naruto. Go get Oushi and the pups it’s time we head home.”

“Okay Gaawa.” The chibi jumped up and ran off to retrieve the ninken.

Gaara didn’t understand the feelings he was getting while he held the long haired brunette but he knew it was a warm pleasant feeling. He hadn’t released Neji simply because he didn’t want to end this feeling. He could feel his heart speed up at seeing the blush on Neji’s face. Was this what it is to care for another that is not of your blood? Reluctantly he let the taller man go so they could leave but he kept a close distance as they walked back to the Compound.

Thursday

“Ohayoo, Hinata-nee-chan!”

“Ohayoo Naruto-kun. Breakfast is almost ready.”

“Okay.” Naruto smiled before going to the corner of the kitchen and filling the three dog bowls and making sure the water bowl was full.

“How does your ninken training going?”

“Good! I showing them to hide chakra! And hiding footsteps!”

“Oh my. That’s a lot of work. You better eat training burns a lot energy.” Hinata smiled setting a large bowl of rice and grill fish in front of him.

“Itadakimasu!”

“Ohayoo Hinata-sama, Naruto.”

“Ohayoo, Neji-nii-san. Father had council business today so he won’t be home for training.”

“That is fine Kurai-san said I shouldn’t strain myself.” Neji replied before taking his seat.

“Kurai-san? What happened?”

“It’s nothing…”

“Neji-san fractured his ankle and ignored the injury until it broke.” Gaara stated as he enter the kitchen.

“Nii-San!!” Hinata shouted as she dropped the pan she had been holding. Kaji and Koori quickly ran over to lap up the free food. Ignoring the mess she made she ran over to her cousin and began running chakra scans all over him.

“I’m fine Hinata-sama.” The older teen tried to wave off the younger Hyuuga but received a glare that would even make her father shiver in fear. So he sat there until the heiress was satisfied that he was in good health.

“Your ankle is still a bit swollen but it has healed nicely. Nii-san, why didn’t you go to the medic?” Hinata asked once she was done examining him.

“I didn’t think it was that bad. I have had worst injures before I didn’t think that worth worrying about.”

“Well you were wrong Nii-san. Just because you have had worst injures does not mean that you suffer more than you should. I will make sure you rest today.” And before he could argue she shut down all of his chakra points preventing him from using any kind of jutsus or the Byakugan for twenty-four hours.

“Hinata-sama!”

“You are going to rest and stay off you ankle. Don’t worry about Naruto-kun he is safe within the compound. Finish your breakfast and go rest in the court yard I’ll being you tea.” Hinata brushed kiss to his sealed forehead before moving back to the stove to grill some fresh fish. She may have the weakest of clan but she was finally letting her inner strength show. She was not going to let her loved ones hurt needlessly so if she had to strong arm her genius cousin to make sure he fully healed then so be it.

Neji was blown away by what had just happened. He had never seen his meek cousin move so fast or speak so forcefully to him. He blushed when she kissed him over his cursed seal. It seems having a boyfriend was a good influence on her self esteem. He heard a soft chuckle from his right and he glared at the Kazekage but the effect was ruined by the blush dusting his cheeks.

Gaara watched then from the corner of his eye but his thoughts kept wondering to the older Hyuuga. ‘Why do I feel at ease around Neji-san? Why do I want to hold him when he blushes?’ He didn’t see the smirk bloom on the small chibi face.

XxXxXxXx

Naruto hummed as he worked in Misaki’s garden. It was nice and familiar to him, plus it was in a nice shaded area where his Nii-chan could rest. Hinata-nee-chan told him to make sure Neji-nii-chan rested and to keep off his ankle. So, what better way to keep his nii-chan at rest than to lie on a blanket in the peaceful garden?

“Gaawa-nii-chan?”

“What is it Naruto?”

“Do you like Neji-nii-chan?”

“I respect him.” Gaara answered slowly as he glanced at the sleeping prodigy a few feet away. “But I don’t understand feelings. I grew up alone with false emotions forced upon me. I am learning all over again what it is to feel.”

“You sound wike Emwald. She stops feeling to keep her heawt safe.” The chibi wrinkled his little nose in frustration. “If you Like Nii-chan you tell him, then you not lonewy and he not lonewy.”

“Neji-sans is lonely?”

“Uh hu… he sees a lot but not his heawt.” Gaara couldn’t help but stare at the chibi then he looked to the sleeping Neji. He could feel a warmth in his chest as he watched the pale man sleep. He could relax around him and Shukaku was clam when they were around him. Maybe he did like the man before him but would his affections be returned? Could he end the loneliness Neji was feeling?

Suddenly a kunai came flying out of the trees aimed for the Kyuubi container. His sand was lighting fast in deflecting it away from the chibi. Neji was up and at their side in an instant. Naruto was scared and clung to the Gaara’s pant leg Koori and Kaji barked as they dodged more in coming kunai.

“The intruder is quick but I can smell him.” Oushi growled. “He’s on the roof.”

“Naruto you stay with Neji-san.” Gaara took to the roof chasing the black clad figure.

“Neji I order you to hand over the demon child.”

“Nabugato-sama, what are you doing? Naruto is under our protection.” Neji turned to see his main branch grandfather step out from the shadows.

“No he is under your care not the clan’s care. You are a branch member and you serve the main family. I order you to hand over the demon child.”

“No. Naruto is not a demon and I will protect him with my life.”

“You have grown defiant just like your father and Uncle. You will obey or you will die.” Nabugato made the familiar sign that would activate the cursed seal.

“Hiashi-sama will stop you!” he couldn’t fight the seal and with his chakra blocked he couldn’t protect Naruto from his insane grandfather.

“He can’t stop me; and after today I am having him removed as the head of the clan. I have chosen a Hyuuga for marry Hinata. I will rule this clan until she produces a suitable heir. I will not let this clan fall to disgrace by letting her be with that mutt Inuzuka or let traditions die at the hands of Hiashi’s soft heartedness.”

“You’re insane. The clan is no longer yours to rule and you cannot remove Hiashi-sama.”

“I can and I will with his death, but first I need to remove that demon. Once the fox is dead the blame will fall on Hiashi and he will be executed for treason because he allowed the demon child to get killed.”

“I won’t let that happen!”

“There is nothing you can do. Tojikomemasu!” Neji fell to the ground clutching his head causing his hitai-ate to fall off.

“Hand over the demon!”

“N-n-never.” The pain was intense he didn’t know how long he would be able withstand the pain.

“OOWWW!” Nabugato howled as Kaji bit and burnt his hand causing him to break the jutsu. Koori took off for help. Oushi pulled Naruto out of sight hiding him behind the tree.

“Give up! Nabugato even if I fail there are others who will protect Naruto.” Neji pulled himself up to a shaky standing position.

“Then you shall die for your loyalty to the demon.” The elder Hyuuga ran straight for his grandson with a kunai aimed straight for his heart.

Neji braced himself the best he could waiting for the impact of his angry grandfather’s kunai, but it never came instead all he saw was a wall of sand. Nabugato was tossed back into the courtyard wall. The sand whirled around reforming into the Kazekage, who was none too happy at the moment. Another wave of sand come forward and dropped the ninja that he had been chasing.

“This Subordinate is yours.” Gaara growled. “You will stop your attacks.”

“This is Clan business and you have no authority over me.” He raised his hands ready activate the seal again.

“But I do!” Was the last thing that he heard before feeling all of his chakra points hit and his body paralyzed. “Hyuuga, Nabugato, you are under arrest for the attempted murder of Uzumaki, Naruto and the unauthorized activation of the caged bird seal against branch member Hyuuga, Neji. You and your subordinate shall be placed in restraints until my father and the Godaime get here.”

Hinata never thought she had ever been so mad in her life. She with Hanabi had been in the dojo cleaning up some of the practice gear when little Koori came running bark and tugging at her pants. The two girls ran after the pup to the court yard where they saw Gaara protecting Neji and their grandfather about to activate their cousin’s seal. From the look of it the seal had been already been activated. She sent Hanabi and Koori to get their father and Tsunade while she took on their grandfather. Hinata would never forget the look on the old man’s face as she arrested him. He never knew what hit him.

“Nii-san, are you all right?”

“He has grown weak and pale.” Gaara mumbled holding the older boy in his arms close his chest. Naruto came out of hiding and had buried his face in Neji’s shirt to hide the tears.

“Don’t worry Nii-san Hanabi-chan will be here soon with help.”

“Hina-chan…” Hinata’s eyes started to tear up because Neji hadn’t called her that since they were small. “I’m proud of you…”

“Ne-Chan!” Hinata cried as Neji fell unconscious in the arms of a very worried redhead.

Friday

The morning light streamed in waking him just like it did every morning. With a groan he tried to sit up but the pain in his seal had him falling back against the pillow. He felt like his head was about to split open. He tried to sit up again but slower this time when a hand on his shoulder stopped him.

“I wouldn’t try that again if I were you.”

“Gaara-sama?”

“You have been out for 17 hours. Tsunade-sama has repaired some of the damage done by the seal the rest has to heal on its own. There were no lingering side effects because you were no held under for to long.”

“Then why do I feel so weak?”

“Hinata had shut down your chakra so you would rest but you were attacked. She could not release it without causing you serious harm so it is slowly returning naturally.” The red head explained as he helped the injured Hyuuga take a much needed sip of water.

“Is Naruto alright?”

“See for yourself.” Neji turned to see Gaara step aside to reveal a sleeping chibi curled up with his nin-pups using Oushi as a pillow on the bed next to his. “He would not leave your side. He even got Kurai-san to make one of her potions ease your pain.”

“What is it?”

“You apply it to your seal and it will numb it for a few hours and eases your headaches. Hinata-san has been applying it every four hours since Naruto came running in with the bottle.”

“Hinata-sama… She has become stronger over the years.” Neji said with smile. “I think she’s even stronger than me.”

“It is possible she seems to become stronger when she is fighting for someone close to her.” Gaara nodded in agreement as he sat in the chair next to the bed. “She stood up against the elder that attacked you and had him thrown out of your clan.”

Neji’s mind was whirling with what Gaara was telling him. Their grandfather was thrown out of the clan, what more, he was arrested. He can only imagine what the Hokage had done once she had gotten a hold of him. Nabugato was no longer his grandfather, his quest for power led to his insanity. The man had almost killed him if it hadn’t been for the Kazekage. He felt a fluttering in his chest as he thought of the red head sitting beside him. He had always been drawn to the youngest sand sibling because he seemed to share in the same loneliness that he felt. This pass week while watching over Naruto the two had gotten closer to one another. Even though it was embarrassing circumstances that landed him in Gaara’s arms, he enjoyed the feeling he got while he was held. He felt safe and protected. He didn’t have to be the strong Hyuuga prodigy; instead he could just be Neji even if only for a moment. ‘Was this love? Is that why I free feel whenever I’m with him? Oh Kami when did this happen?’

“Neji-nii-chan?” a little voice yawned.

“Ohayoo Naruto.”

“You awake!” the blond chibi jumped off the bed he had been sleeping on and ran to his guardian’s side and looked at him with tear filled eyes. “I scared you not wake up.”

“It’s alright Naruto I’m better now Tsunade-sama healed me and Kurai-san’s potion helps with any headaches.”

“Good.” Naruto smiled at hugged the injured teen. “You worry me. Gaawa worry too he carry you here and stay with you all night.”

“I… Was concerned.”

“You yelled at Obaa-chan to ‘Get off her drunken ass and save Neji.’” Naruto frowned as he tried to remember Gaara’s exact words.

“Like I said I was concerned.” Gaara repeated as a faint blush dusted his cheeks. The blush deepened when he felt a slender hand grip his.

“Thank you Gaara-sama.” Neji smiled sporting a blush of his own.

“Gaara, just call me Gaara.”

XxXxXxXx

“Hinata-sama I’m fine please stop fussing.” An exasperated Neji pleaded as she tried to shoo his cousin away from the pillows she was trying to fluff.

“I just want to make sure you are comfortable.” She pouted before fixing his blanket’s making sure he was warm.

“MY ETERNAL RIVAL!” a green blur came running in crying manly tears.

“Lee It’s alright I’m fine.” Growled said eternal rival.

“I came as soon as My Sakura blossom told me you were admitted. I have brought our team mate and her youthful friend with me as well.”

“He is not my youthful friend. He is a pervert that plays with dolls.” Tenten snapped as she entered the room with Kankurou following at her heels.

“You wound me, my little firecracker.” Gaara raised an invisible eyebrow at his brother antics. It was true that his brother was considered a flirt even a prev in their village but he had never Seen Kankurou at out like this.

‘It must be the Weapons Mistress.’

“Anyway, Neji how are you feeling?” Tenten asked shoving the puppet master away.

“I’m better. Naruto and Gaara-sama has been keeping me company today.”

“Yup and Kaji keep him warm. Koori and me do tricks. Keep Neji-nii-chan happy.” Naruto beamed pointing out his nin-pups.

“He calls jumping around with to rookies tricks. The pups just look hyper if you ask me.” Oushi snorted as swatted the white pup away from chewing on his ear.

“So brother I heard you had excitement over at the Hyuuga place.”

“Yes another attempt on Naruto’s life.” Growled the Kazekage scaring most of the occupants in the room but the killing intent vanished when a gentle hand touched his arm. He turned to see the worried lilac eyes of Neji. His chest tightened and hurt seeing the worry in the other man’s face knowing he caused it. He pushed these feelings aside and calmly turned to his brother. “I met with the Hokage this morning and security will be tightened on Naruto as well as the labs here in the hospital. The one of the other labs was broken into this week in order to sabotage Kurai’s efforts to find a cure. Fortunately they had broken into the wrong lab but her team is now posted as guards to the floor no one can enter without proper authorization.”

“Then I’ll be sure to double the traps around my house and family forge. I get Naruto Next week Tsunade-sama said that she and Jiraiya-sama will be watching him over the weekend.” Tenten smiled.

“Then I shall inform the rest of our friend of this threat on Naruto’s youthfulness!”

“Yeah you do that Lee.” The weapons mistress rolled her eyes as their green clad team mate raced out of the room. “Well you need your rest so we’ll be going.”

“Hey firecracker, do you have a map?” Kankurou asked as he followed Tenten out of the room.

“No, what do you need a map for?”

“Because, I got lost in your eyes.” Suddenly there was a loud crash in the hall and a scream “Damatte! Hentaisha!” causing the ones left in the room to sweat drop.

“I think I should go make sure she didn’t kill him.” Hinata smiled nervously practically running out the door.

“It seems my brother has some affections for your team mate.”

“So it would seem. It looks as though all of your siblings are finding their precious persons.” Neji said quietly not looking at the Kazekage.

Gaara though that he had never seen a person look as beautiful as Neji did right now with his hair unbound and a blush on the pale cheeks and long slender fingers subconsciously fidgeting with the blanket hem. He knew he was never attracted to anyone before because of Shukaku had made everyone fear him. When he became Kazekage he had offers from women wanting to marry him but they didn’t know him and they held no appeal for him. Now he realized he was waiting for a strong mate, one who would understand him and one he could let his guard down with. In short he was waiting for Hyuuga, Neji.

The longhaired teen could feel the piercing on him and he fought not to blush anymore than he already was. He wondered what was going through the red-head’s mind wondering if he gave his newly discovered feelings away. He was so caught up in his thoughts that he didn’t notice the shorter man move closer to him or the hand cupping his chin until Lilac eyes met Sea green.

“Now we have all have found our precious person.” Gaara replied softly before covering Neji’s lips with his own.

In the corner Naruto smiled with glee as another couple came together. He picked up his pups and slipped out of the room with Oushi right behind him. He would give his Nii-chans some alone time. Naruto smirked as his chakra shifted again to that of the older Naruto as he head down to the labs to torment… I mean visit his favorite Yoru Shinobi.

“Another couple down two more to go.”


A/N: Here it is the long awaited chapter 13! (*DOES A LITTLE DANCE*) Okay after the devastating lost of all my files on the flash drive I had revive my muses and take them to therapy in order to get them this chapter from them and trust me it wasn’t easy. So while the muses are still in therapy I will continue on my quest bring you another Chapter in the MCD universe as well as BC (Blue Christmas). Thanks for reading keep reviewing.

Nani – What

Itadakimasu – ‘I receive’ or ‘grace’ When beginning a meal

Tojikomemasu – seal in (it’s the closest I can get to activate)

Hentaisha – pervert

Damatte – Shut up