Disclaimer: I've checked every paper I have in my house, yet I found none that states me as owner of the Naruto series. (But I own this story xD)

A/N: HoNdeR All Mighty is back baby! Here begins another NaruHina multi-chaptered story! I think it will satisfy all these souls out there that hunger for NaruHina xD! Anyway, I want to thank my Beta, bubmblemark for editing my story. He hasn't changed something much from the original script, but the little changes he has done seemed quite fitting to me. I'd also recommend his story, 'This time for Hinata' for it is one of the few well written stories you can find my favorites, it is there. In conclusion, here is the whole story summary

Summary: Jiraya is dead. He fell in the battle against Akatsuki, were the whole conspiracy had come to an end, except Itachi and Kisame who didn't give the present in the battle. Naruto now contemplates on his life in Konoha and his future. The Hokage will give him the motive to do what he had hidden in the abyss of his mind. He will leave Konoha, but not alone. Three friends will follow him in this epic adventure. Epic, for the unexpected... always lurks around...

Will Naruto and his friends find a better life?

Towards The Heaven

Chapter1: Lost In Hell

Life was cruel… in more ways than one…

A lonely blond haired teen was lying down on the grass at Konoha's main park. The light blue of the sky was painted with plenty of white entities, what people came to refer as clouds. Titling his head to the left…

A group of children were playing with a ball, laughing and teasing each other. One of them tripped over the ball, falling to the ground. Even so, another child managed to get the ball and score. His team cheered while the others neared their fallen teammate.

They didn't yell, scorn, or tease him. In truth, they helped the boy to his feet, patted him on the back, then smiled and laughed reassuringly. The boy seemed relieved that his friends thought of his 'accident' as something funny.

'Friends…'

The blond turned his gaze to the light blue sky once more, countless thoughts racing in his mind. Friends… something he could think of as a joke when he was a kid. He grew up with no friends… but no matter how he longed for such a relationship, it never came in his childhood years. It was until his graduation at the academy that he finally made a few, the first ones being Uchiha Sasuke and Haruno Sakura. Well… to tell the truth, at first they weren't even his friends really. They saw him as a teammate. But with the time they spent together, they came closer, bonds tightening with the passage of time. He smirked…

He remembered asking Sakura out on a date every now and then, her response being a good punch in the face or a down straight denial. He sighed. Well, he could always try, wouldn't he?

She was a good friend now, being his teammate for so long and such. And Sasuke was a funny situation too…

Uchiha Sasuke… at first, his rival, later on, his brother. Though the Uchiha wouldn't admit a thing, Naruto knew that Sasuke was seeing him the same way.

Funny… now that he thought about it… it was as if becoming a ninja practically changed his life, maybe for the better?

He ran names through his mind, each person he knew and was close to him, one way or another.

Kiba: Always energetic but being an ass at the same time, provoking Naruto to mindless arguements and long serries of curses.

Shino: Not really a friend, but neither neutral. Shino was someone that you could go in search for guidance at times of peril, since his logic and way of finding solutions was one of a kind.

Shikamaru: Lazy. That's all. Yes, he's a genius, but he is just lazy, the world around him being nothing but troublesome. Nevertheless, he could be your best friend when needed, a companion you can turn towards and know that when you smile, he is more likely to smile back.

Neji: Somehow the same as Sasuke, in the attitude that is. Neji was a lot warmer person after Naruto defeated him in the Chuunin exams, three years ago. Yet again, Neji was like a statue of emotionlessness, though he didn't hesitate to let his feelings guide his body when the company of friends was gathered.

Lee: God was he energetic. If Naruto didn't know better, Lee was just like him, except the absence of fashion sense of course. He chuckled at this, remembering his younger self, when he was wearing that orange jumpsuit that screamed 'Here I am! Kill me!' to any hostile.

Ino: Wasn't much of a friend. But again, he had found himself at her flower shop plenty of times. He snickered lightly to himself, remembering the reason of why he went to her work place. Jiraiya wasn't allowed there, so he usually sent his little apprentice in his place. Too bad the old pervert thought that Tsunade could fall for a few flowers…

Tenten: He barely knew the girl… NEXT!

Hinata: She was always kind of weird around him, always blushing and stuttering. A week ago, his curiosity had gotten the better of him, so he silently followed her around, wanting to see if the Hyuuga heiress really had a problem or something. Surprised he was, that when she talked to any other male, her face wasn't flushed at all! Not even the slightest. Yet she still had a very little stutter and her always gentle attitude. So, was she only blushing around him? Weird. Maybe he could talk to her about it later

Truth be told, the only reason he thought about investigating the matter was because that particular day that he followed her, she was blushing like a tomato when he leaned close to her to whisper something. They had returned from a mission that day, and as always he was overexcited, thoughts of long training flouding his mind.

Strange… he had many missions with Hinata lately, as if the Hokage purposely put them together… another add in the 'Weird Things' list.

Nevertheless, he finally understood that she blushed and stuttered like this only around him. Strange it was... Maybe she was allergic to him or something, since she sometimes fainted. Yet, he found it uncomfortable of not being able to stay close to her, to lose a friend... so he shoved the thought away. Yet again, how could he really know? Even as he had spent lots of time with the Hyuuga Heiress, little did he know about her really, for she never opened up... never talked much. The shy kind of person, he guessed.

Well, he could always hold a conversation over the matter later, right?

Leaving the world of thoughts, he turned his head to the right, and his gaze immediately fell on a small boy, surrounded by a few older ones. Were they bullying him…?

He slowly sat up, his gaze focused on the group of children. Some seemed to laugh as the little boy in the middle was sitting with its knees brought to its chest and its hands wrapped around them. Naruto frowned…

He slowly stood up and walked towards the kids…

"Haha! You're just a weak little fool! Give up! You'll never be a ninja!" one of the older kids said, laughing, sadistic joy in the pain he caused. The little boy seemed to flinch. He looked up at the older kids. It was evident that he was crying, puffy brown gazing at the towering hostiles.

The little kid was about to protest when a blond teen broke the circle, an angry stare over the group of children

"What's going on here?" he asked. The older kids looked up at him, since he was quite taller

"Mind your own business mister." One of the kids snapped rudely. Naruto sent glares at the kid "This is, my business" he said and the boy could feel a shiver running down his spine. Naruto smirked. He could thank Sasuke later for this. The cold tone was useful in a few occasions. "Uhah, so you're another weakling like this one over here" the same boy stated as it was the most obvious thing in the world, though any ninja with at least a bit of mind could see that it was an attempt to hide its fear... a pathetic one. Naruto snickered

"Look who's talking" he said and flickered the kid on the forehead, sending him flying towards the wall. He smirked again. Sakura had taught him some tricks she had taken from Tsunade, like the chakra enhanced flicker on the forehead, a marvelous way of dealing with little punks.

The kid, fortunately for itself, didn't smash on the wall, but stopped a few feet away from it. Everyone stared in fear and awe at the blond teen. Naruto kept his smirk on "Now, if you please… get out of here!" he shouted and the kids were gone in a flash, leaving only Naruto and the little boy behind.

Naruto dropped his cold expression and looked at the little kid. A smile crept on his face as he reached his hand out for the boy to take. The little one hesitantly accepted the hand and Naruto helped him stand.

"Look kid, don't let them guide your dreams. You are what you believe you are. No one is weak unless they let themselves believe it. If you believe what they say, then you will become what they think you are. Do me a favor and prove them wrong" he said, his smile unwavering. Now the little one nodded and smiled himself. "Thank you…" the boy trailed off as he realized he didn't even know who the teen was. Naruto grinned "Uzumaki Naruto! Believe it!" he said and gave the kid a thumb's up. The boy smiled and nodded "Arigato, Naruto" he said and hugged the teen's legs, since he was much taller.

Naruto just patted the kid on the head, who backed away and left, waving a hand in goodbye at the blond. The teen couldn't help but feel proud that he helped in the development of a future shinobi…

It was then that a figure dressed in a black outfit got close to him, his high collar hiding his neck while his bandaged hands were shoved in his pockets "Looks like the dobe can give a speech" he said, his voice cold and monotone, yet mock was evident.

Naruto grinned widely, knowing exactly who it was. "Well, better than not talking at all ne teme?" he said and looked back at the one he came to call 'brother'.

The referred person gave a 'Hn', letting Naruto know that he heard his answer. Naruto's grin was wide as ever "So teme, want to train or something?" he asked and the other teen smirked. "Ok, dobe, though we should get Hinata and Sakura with us too, we need 'em for some partner training" he said and his smirk melted in a wide grin. Naruto only nodded "Alright, you get Sakura, I get Hinata" he replied and Sasuke raised an eyebrow.

He thought his blond friend would probably go after Sakura, since it was most unlikely that he would hesitate to ask her on a date or something "Why's that dobe?" he asked. It was Naruto's turn to raise an eyebrow "What do you mean?" he asked slyly "Don't you want to see some pink today?" he said and laughed. Before Sasuke could protest, Naruto had already leapt away.

Sasuke turned his gaze away from the blond's fleeting back. He turned around and started walking towards Sakura's house after letting out his usual 'Hn'. 'Dobe…' he thought…

XxxxX

Now, why did they want Hinata in their training?

Simple.

Though Naruto was still a Genin, all the others were Chuunin, Naruto still being low in rank due to his 3 year absence with Jiraya. So, since Kakashi had plenty of work to do, Tsunade needed to replace him with someone. But why Hinata? Let us take a look at the blond's memory…

Flashback

Naruto walked out of the Hokage tower, clearly irritated. "Damn it!" he shouted to no one in particular. Kakashi had left for a LONG mission and now his team would be short by a member. He had to find someone, and quick.

Searching around the streets of Konoha for his friends, he was even more irritated that he couldn't find anyone. Turning around a corner, his eye caught the familiar sight of an ink-blue haired head. He smiled widely at himself, already knowing who it was…

"Oi! Hinata-chan!" he exclaimed happily and said lavender eyed girl turned to look at him as her walking came to a halt, blushing of course. Naruto ignored the blush. It was like natural to her anyway.

"H-Hello, N-Naruto-kun" she said shyly and Naruto grinned. It was so natural of her to stutter lightly. "Hinata-chan, I'm looking for a member for my team! Kakashi-sensei is out for a loooong mission, so we need someone! Sai is also out due to ANBU missions along with captain Yamato" he said and looked down sadly.

Hinata's face immediately brightened, though he didn't notice it for he was looking down of course. That was her chance! Her chance to be close to Naruto-kun!

Naruto looked up at her, expecting an answer. When he realized that all she did was stare at him, he sighed "Ok, I understand, you're busy and such…" he was cut off as Hinata violently shook her head. "No, no Naruto-kun, it's not that. I'd be happy to join your team" she said and blushed. Naruto's face immediately brightened

"Great!" he exclaimed happily and embraced Hinata in a bear hug. The poor girl blushed furiously, her mind going on overload at the feeling of Naruto hugging her. Well, the next thing she did was another one that Naruto thought as a natural thing for her to do.

She fainted

He realized she had fainted when he let her go, but her body immediately started falling. He caught her mid air, just in time to stop a nice impact with the ground. He was surprised at how light she was, as if she weighted no more than a wooden box. Strange, she seemed fat with that bulky jacket of hers, yet he knew she wasn't, not at all! Come on, how could a kunoichi with such grace in movements and flexible body be fat?

He smiled and took her in his arms, lifting her up bridal-style and moving towards Sasuke's apartment. They would gather Sakura too later…

End Flashback

Hinata didn't mind leaving her team for a while. Kiba had work to do with the Inuzuka hounds while Shino was out of the Fire country, looking for some rare species of bugs with his father. She was so happy that she was actually on the same team with Naruto. Even if she hadn't admitted her love yet, she knew that him being close could at least let her see him more. She still remembered the first time they assembled. Well, at least 'they' assembled, as she was brought there by Naruto…

As if on queue, the named blond popped out of nowhere right in front of her. She stared wide eyed as his face was mare inches from her own. And… it was upside down…

He was hanging from a tree right next to her. And she was only walking down the alley when he popped out of nowhere. She stared, surprised at his smiling face, still not believing that he was this close. She was amazed that her blush didn't make him sweat from the heat. "N-Naruto…" she whispered. "That's me!" he exclaimed happily and she fell backwards, not from the shout, but from her legs that couldn't really keep her standing from the nervousness that had enveloped her. Naruto looked at her worriedly as he jumped down. "Oi, you don't look well. Your face is red" he said and grinned widely. "Anyway, no time to waste! Come on!" he said and lifted her up bridal-style, earning an 'Eep' from the girl who instinctively circled her arms around his neck, holding tight on him. He grinned and leapt away… there wasn't any other girl who would let him do that, and he liked it…

XxxxX

Naruto kicked the door to Sasuke's apartment open. "Oi, teme! Got one!" he said and looked down at Hinata, who was blushing furiously and looking around wide eyed. He grinned

"Dobe, can you stop breaking my door?" asked an irritated Sasuke as he walked in the living room from the kitchen. It was then that Naruto realized he almost destroyed the poor wooden object. He was ready to bring his hand behind his head, something he had come to do by instinct, but he stopped himself in the last moment, realizing he still held Hinata

"Oh, that. Yep, sorry teme" he said and walked in, Hinata still blushing in his arms. Sasuke raised an eyebrow as he closed the door "So, you like her so much you don't want to drop her dobe?" he said with a smirk. Naruto immediately stiffened and gently let Hinata's feet touch the floor. When she could stand, he slowly turned to Sasuke with a smirk

"Look who's talking. Your favorite food is cherries!" he said, pointing a finger at his onyx haired brother. (Sakura=Cherry blossoms- or cherries... anyway). Sasuke 'Hned' and shrugged, his smirk never fading

"At least cherries are eatable. You can't eat lavender's now, can you dobe?" he countered. It was then that he noticed Hinata standing behind the blond, her face red as ever. He snickered

Naruto was also blushing, not so much though. Hinata was on the verge of fainting 'N-Naruto-kun likes me?' that thought was racing in her mind like a tornado. He didn't deny it, so did he accept it?

"Yeah, yeah anyway. Where's Sakura-chan?!" he asked excitedly and Hinata felt her heart drop. He still liked Sakura…

It was then that the pink haired kunoichi decided to come in from the kitchen. Naruto's attention was immediately caught at the sight of his teammate. Hinata studied his every move, as if every step he took towards the pink-haired girl was another punishment for her, another ache for her heart, another pain she had to endure…

"Oi Sakura-chan! Want to go…" he was cut off by a fuming Sakura "No" she stated and looked away in annoyance. Naruto turned to look at Sasuke, whose eyebrow was also twitching. Naruto smirked "I was going to ask if you wanted to come and train with us, but if you're busy…" he said and snickered. Turning to look at Sakura again, she was staring wide eyed…

"What? Idiot! What do you think I'm doing here in the first place?" she said in rage, raising her fist. Naruto knew the limits. If he didn't want a punch in the face, he had to stop now

"Yosh! Well, since we are all here, let's go!" he shouted and burst out of the window, heading towards team 7's training ground as usual. Both Sasuke and Sakura sighed. "How the hell did you fall for that guy?" Sakura asked as she looked at Hinata, who was just standing next to where Naruto once was. She let out an 'Eep!' of surprise.

Both teens smirked. "Come on, it's no big secret you love him" Sasuke said and snickered "Too bad the dobe must be the only one in the village that doesn't know" he said and kept snickering while both girls sighed.

"Don't worry Hinata, he may be an idiot, but he'll find out sooner or later. Just, stay close to him okay?" she said and Hinata only nodded. They themselves had found out about her crush from their first day of training together. They could try and help her, but the only way to make the dobe understand was to tell him straight in the face. Well, they could always wait, couldn't they…?

XxxxX

Naruto sat down, his back on the log behind him. He was thinking…

He was glad that he had friends… yet again, this hell that enveloped him…

He had worked so hard, he had tried so much… yet again the villagers didn't acknowledge him, they despised him even now. What else could be done? Become Hokage? Again, they would hate him, for no obvious reason. So foolish they were, not understanding even their own reasons. But he couldn't change their minds, nor could he force them to like him. He lived nearly isolated… he was in hell, and it was named Konoha…

He wanted to cry, but his pride didn't allow him. Yes, he was in a place were everyone saw him as a monster. Well, not everyone, his friends didn't see him that way. Now that he thought about it, the only ones that were close to him were Sasuke and Sakura. Hinata too, she was always kind and gentle. Now that he thought about it, she was never harsh to him, when he did something stupid, she wouldn't punch him like Sakura did. Instead, she would tell him it was alright. He smiled. She was like an angel in this hell. She was lost too, an angel that his wings were cut, and she had fallen from the skies down here, looking for someone to help her stand again.

But his sorrow grew… if anyone in this village cared for him, that would be Sakura, Sasuke, Kakashi and Tsunade. These were the ones close to him. Well, everyone now knew about him being a Jinchuuriki, but their attitudes didn't really change. He didn't know why, but he was happy that everyone treated him the same, even Hinata was a little surprised at first, but all she had done was hug him and tell him it was alright. Joy filled him once more. She had the most affectionate reaction. The others could just stare at him in disbelief or say something funny. Maybe… she cared?

Thrown out of his thoughts he was, when three figures approached him. Looking up, he saw a smirking Sasuke, a grinning Sakura, and a blushing, yet smiling Hinata. He grinned…

It had been three hours with this four training constantly. Sakura could help them with basic medical Jutsu so that they would heal most common wounds. Sasuke would help them build up their speed, since he was the fastest in the group. Hinata would help with chakra control. Being a Byakugan user required one to be master in that area. And Naruto… well he helped build up the team's stamina and chakra stores, being the one with almost limitless ones on both…

They all sat down at the shadows of a tree, enjoying the light breeze. It would be lunchtime in about half an hour…

Naruto sat down between Sasuke and Hinata, the last having Sakura next to her. "So, what do you think guys?!" he asked excitedly. Sasuke 'Hned', Hinata giggled and Sakura laughed her head off. Naruto glared at all of them, a bit of anger in his gaze "What's so funny?"

"It's just… it's just…" Sakura tried to say between her laughs. Hinata had stopped giggling by the way

"It's just that it is funny using 'A thousand years of pain' on yourself Naruto-kun" she said and continued giggling. Naruto frowned "Oh that's it? I could use one of you as example instead of a clone you know, Hinata-chan" he said and smirked. He was calling her –chan from the moment he asked her to come in his team.

Hinata blushed furiously, imagining Naruto using that… technique… on her…

It was then that Kakashi chose the magical moment to appear in a poof of smoke. He had returned from his LONG mission yesterday, but Tsunade kept their new team assembled, since the silver haired Jounin had work to do with the ANBU. "Yo" he greeted, raising a hand while the other held his 'Icha Icha' book in front of his face. Naruto sweat dropped "Ah, Kakashi-sensei, you never leave that book away from your hand, do you?" he asked, pointing a finger at his perverted sensei.

"Nope" he simply answered as he slowly lowered the book to give Naruto a look that said 'I'm bored to hell'. The teen fell back, anime style

Naruto sat up in his position once more, glaring at his sensei.

"So, what are you doing here sensei?" Sakura asked worriedly. Kakashi usually appeared either to train them, or give a mission. Kakashi's gaze locked on Naruto, sorrow taking over for a brief moment

"Naruto… Tsunade-sama wants… to see you" he said and looked away. Naruto raised an eyebrow "See me? What for?" he asked. Kakashi avoided looking at him. "Sorry Naruto… you'll have to ask her yourself…" he said and poofed out of existence. Naruto sweat dropped.

He looked at his friends "Alright! Who's with me?" he asked happily and everyone nodded. Whatever it was, they would be there for him…

XxxxX

Ten minutes later, they were all standing before the doors of the Hokage's office. Naruto was ready to bark in, yelling and all, but he was interrupted as Shizune beat him to it, opening the door before he could even knock. Her eyes went wide as she saw his friends also being there, but her look changed in one of grief…

Everyone turned to look at the Hokage who sat at the other side of the room, behind her desk. Tsunade eyed all of them "Come in everyone." She ordered and they quickly walked in. Everyone knew that it was wise not to provoke the Hokage's wrath…

"It concerns you all anyway…" she said and looked down sadly

They didn't sit. They noticed that the chairs usually residing at the other side of Tsunade's desk were absent, but the cracks on the walls gave a hint of what must have happened…

Tsunade sighed. It was then that they really noticed her existence, since they were all examining the various cracks spread across the walls of her office. Naruto, of course, was the first to break the silence

"So what did you want me for, Tsunade-Obaa-chan?! A mission? A clean up? More Sa'ke?" he asked excitedly as he bounced around. It took a bump on the head form both Sakura and Sasuke to make him stand down. Sasuke mumbled a 'dobe' while Sakura held herself the best she could so she wouldn't send him flying across the room. Hinata was just worriedly looking at them...

After Naruto calmed down, it was just then that they noticed a tear had made its way down the Hokage's cheek, her expression, a sad smile.

"Why are you crying baa-chan?" Naruto asked worriedly. The others stared at the Hokage in amazement. It was rare for her to show weakness

"It's… just that…I'll miss this thing…" she whispered the last part to herself as she looked away. Naruto's worry grew even more. The others looked between Naruto and the Hokage, probably grabbing a picture of what the whole thing was about.

"Baa-chan…" Naruto said quietly. What could make the Hokage look like that?! Jiraya was already gone. He knew his loss was a great strike to her, but what was she crying for now? What could make her…

"Naruto… first of all, I want you to understand that I hate what I'm going to tell you." She said, another tear falling down her cheek as she looked at the blond. Naruto's heart was beating like crazy. What did she mean?

He only nodded, no words coming out of his mouth. The others now dreaded every second. Tsunade couldn't really stand it…

"The… council… they want to… kill you…" she whispered the last part to herself again, looking down at her desk as more tears made their way down her cheek.

"The council wants what baa-chan?" Naruto asked. He never was the patient kind of person. Tsunade looked up at him

"Kill you" she said, and Naruto did exactly what she expected. He frowned

"That's it? Those old hags wanted to do it from the first day of my life!" He practically yelled, but his frown had turned in a look of anger and sorrow. Hinata, Sasuke, Sakura, did nothing but stare…

"No… I mean really… kill you…" the Hokage said again, and all eyes went wide

"What do you mean?" Naruto asked more calmly now. The others were looking between the Hokage and Naruto, practically turning their heads every two seconds

"Danzo… he always wanted your power as a weapon… but since he sees that he can't have it… he wants to destroy it…" she said, fighting back sobs that threatened to appear. She had already shown weakness in front of her ninjas by crying…

"What?! Can't you do something about it?" he asked, practically irritated that the Hokage couldn't stop that damn old man. Tsunade shook her head

"Danzo has a whole ANBU unit under his command. The council is also on his side, meaning the whole village is on his side. I can't stop him without evidence, and if you stay here… he will succeed… eventually" she said and all eyes went wide, especially Hinata's. She couldn't stand the idea of Naruto… dead…

"So… what do we do?" Sasuke asked, speaking up for the first time. Hinata and Sakura nodded at him and looked back at the Hokage. She just sighed. "You don't. Naruto does." She said and their eyes went wide again.

"Naruto… you must… leave Konohakagure… maybe for good…" she said and another tear fell down her cheek.

Naruto stood there… stunned… dumbfounded… leaving Konoha for good… leaving his friends behind… leaving his dreams behind…

"W-w-what are you talking about?! I can't leave! This is…" he was cut off as Tsunade stood up and angrily glared at him, tears falling down her cheeks

"You think I like it?! You think I want my little brother away?! You think I want that Danzo asshole to succeed?!" She practically screamed, now standing right in front of the small group of teenagers. She hugged Naruto tightly

"Kid… you have no future here… you must go… find a better place for yourself… please…" she whispered, and Naruto was now crying too, hugging Tsunade back. "I…I…" he tried to mumble but Tsunade pulled him out of the hug and looked at him in the eye

"Naruto. This shit hole you call 'village' has nothing to offer you. You must get out here and find a better life. If you stay here, you will most likely die for nothing on a mission or being killed in a trap set by Danzo's ANBU Root. Please… I don't want you away… but your life is more important than my wants" she said and hugged him again. Naruto hugged her back, tears streaming down both their faces.

Soon… to everyone's surprise… Hinata joined in the hug too, crying herself. Naruto was a little shocked at first. He didn't expect this…

Sakura soon joined in the hug too, hugging the Hokage and Naruto, a few tears streaming down her face too

Sasuke stood at the side for a second. Well, he could wait for everyone to eye him and force him in the hug…

'Whatever…' he thought and hugged Sakura and Naruto

The blond teen was dumbfounded for a little. His friends were there for him… they would help him out of this hell… out of this shit that he called life… but his sorrow grew as he remembered… he had to leave them behind…

"I…I'll come with y-you, Naruto-k-kun" Hinata chocked out between her sobs. Naruto thought he misheard, but as the hug broke, Tsunade eyed Hinata up and down.

"What are you talking about Hinata? You can't just leave the village! You…" Naruto started but Hinata hugged him again, for once at least braking out of that shy shell of hers…

"I don't care…" she whispered, images of yesterday's events flashing in her mind…

Flashback

It was noon at the Hyuuga mansion, Hinata taking her usual sparring course. Against Neji…

Unfortunately for her, Neji was quite a better user of the Jyuuken style, and as such… Hinata lost once more…

Neji helped her up after he had thrown her down with his final strike. Hinata had beat him badly too, but you could call it a trick of fortune that he won this time. She was far more improved that before, yet again, her father didn't seem to appreciate it in the slightest…

"You lost again? How can I hope that you will ever become the head of the clan when you can't defeat your own cousin? I don't know what holds me back from moving you to a branch family and have you caged. You are less than worthless" Hiashi hissed and walked out of the dojo. Hinata was left there… dumbfounded… after all her hard work… her father didn't seem to really see any change in her at all.

She did the only thing she could at the moment…

She cried.

Neji kneeled next to her and put an arm on her shoulder "Hinata-sama…" he said quietly, and she looked up at him. Her cheeks were stained with tears as she looked into his eyes, the usual emotionless eyes gleaming with worry.

"Neji-nii-san… it's just that… no matter how much I work… father… father always thinks I'm weak…" she said, trying to fight back the sobs that threatened to emerge once more. Neji nodded and hugged her.

"Hinata-sama…" he began to take her attention. Hinata looked up at him again as he broke the hug

"Your father might never see how strong you really are. But I know someone besides me out there, knows that you're stronger that what you show. I just wish, that you would be happy. Your father will never allow it in this house. Think of it, Hinata-sama" he said and left the dojo. Hinata was left staring at his fleeting back. Did he mean what she thought he meant…?

End Flashback

'Hinata…' he thought. She was the first to even think of it, not the other two that he thought even as siblings.

What was up with that girl? You could even cut with a knife through the kindness she emitted.

But why? Why would she give up her title as the heir of the Hyuuga clan, her rank as a ninja, her life here, just to follow him around? Before he could ask, Sasuke broke the silence

"I'll go with the dobe too" he stated, looking at Tsunade with a look of determination. Sakura 'Eeped' in surprise, seeing she was the last one remaining. Sasuke was leaving? Naruto was leaving? Damn, she was leaving!

"I'm going too, Tsunade-sama." Sakura said and stood next to Sasuke. She didn't notice the glance he threw her as she stood next to him.

"G-guys… why are you doing this?" Naruto asked, and everyone turned to look at him. He was still hugging Hinata. She broke the hug and walked a few steps away, blushing a slight shade of red as she realized what she had done

"We're your friends Naruto-kun. We can't just leave you…" she said timidly and looked down, expecting him to yell or something.

"She's right dobe. I can't leave my only bro out there to get his ass kicked now, can I?" Sasuke asked with a smirk. Naruto was ready to protest but Sakura cut him off

"Yeah, we are Naruto. You won't get through this alone" she said, and looked at the three. Naruto could only stare wide-eyed.

He turned towards Hinata again, still blushing a little. The blush that seemed to always taint her face…

He understood Sakura and Sasuke. They were his best friends. He expected them to do such a thing. Yet Hinata, she was the first one to speak. She was the first to consider this. But why? Why would she leave it all behind to follow him?

"Hinata-chan… why?" he asked. Hinata looked at him confused for a moment. Then her blush grew deeper. 'Oh no, oh no! I have to tell him! It's now or never!' she thought and her blush grew deep as ever.

She opened her mouth to say something but the Hokage beat her to it "Hinata has an abusive father who doesn't see her true potential. It would be best if she goes with you Naruto. That way, she will have the opportunity to become stronger. And for something else…" she whispered the last part to herself as she threw a wink at Hinata who blushed furiously.

Naruto didn't notice it, as he was busy locking Hinata in a bear hug. "Thank you…" he whispered in her ear. She fought hard to keep herself from fainting and hugged him back. Breaking the hug, he didn't notice the slight disappointment in her features, as he looked at his other two friends. "Thank you all guys." He said and grinned widely.

They both nodded and smiled. Sakura turned to her sensei once more though. Tsunade gave her a look that yelled 'Shut up!', and so she did. The Hokage turned to Naruto once more

"Alright kid. I want you prepared to leave in about an hour. You three stay here. I want to talk to you for a moment" she said and waved Naruto away. He nodded with a grin and left the Hokage tower. Jumping from the window…

Before Sakura could ask her previous question, the Hokage beat her to it "You might wonder why would I allow three of my best shinobi's to leave the village so easily?" she asked with a grin. The others only nodded as they stared wide-eyed

"Simple" she said and shrugged, as if the answer was right in their faces. "What Naruto needs right now, are friends, people who love him" she said while eyeing them all, focusing a bit longer on Hinata. "If he was gone out there all on his own, he would probably die from grief" she said, earning a slight gasp from Hinata. The poor girl seemed to be quite sensitive on this matter. "You guys are all Naruto has at the moment. Be sure to stay close to him and help him through this." She said and they all nodded.

"Now, dismissed. You've got things to pack ne?" she said with a smirk and they all nodded once more. With a wave of her hand, they had disappeared through the window.

'Doesn't anyone use doors nowadays?' she thought and sighed as she sat back at her chair…

XxxxX

'I'm getting out of here… and I'm not alone!' Naruto thought happily as he walked down the streets towards his apartment, wanting to take one last good look at the village. He didn't like the idea of leaving it, but what Tsunade said was true. There was no real future for him here, there wasn't really anything waiting for him except the chair of the Hokage, which was like a forlorn dream now. Even if he were to be the Hokage, there would be no one at his side, both from the village side and the 'mate' thing side. He contemplated on this…

He liked Sakura, but at the extent of seeing her as a sister. Sakura was a good friend and a good person when she wasn't angry. When she was… and surprisingly, it was nearly always when Naruto was around, well… let just say that you want to be a good kilometer radius away from her. Yep, she definitely wasn't the girl for him.

Next in the list is… Tenten? From were did she come from?! He barely knew her! Next…

Ino? Nah, Ino never liked him, and the feeling was mutual. She seemed to be more affectionate towards Shikamaru lately… he chuckled. Good luck making the 'bored' boy interested.

Either way, it was more possible that he wouldn't see them again. So the last candidate is…

"Yo" said a voice, sending him out of his thoughts. Unfortunately, it wasn't fast enough to avoid hitting a pole right in front of him. Crushing on it, he fell backwards and rubbed his face, mumbling curses and many other strange stuff. Did he say something about ramen…?

Looking up, he realized the voice came from his always 'bored and perverted' sensei. "Aw, what is it sensei?" he asked irritated. The jounin held his favorite book in one hand, the other shoved in one of his pockets. He raised his one visible eyebrow

"What, can't I say goodbye to my students?" he asked curiously, titling his head slightly to the side. Naruto stood up "Wait, what the hell? Did you eavesdrop…" he was cut off as Kakashi raised his hand in motion for him to silence.

"I already knew what the Hokage wanted you for before I came to the training grounds. And, I was more than sure that Sakura and Sasuke would follow. They can't live without their favorite baka around, now can they?" he asked, his eye turning in an upside down U, evidencing his unique smile. Naruto was laughing while he rubbed the back of his head

"Yeah, I guess so. I couldn't imagine life without teme around too" he said and continued laughing. Kakashi raised his eyebrow again. He imagined the blond referring more to Sakura, rather than Sasuke "Hmm? Only Sasuke chose to follow?" he asked curiously and Naruto's laughter was cut as if his voice had died.

"No… Sakura-chan and Hinata-chan will too" he said seriously. Kakashi's visible eye went wide. Did he mean… the Hyuuga heiress?

"What are you talking about? The Hyuuga heiress?" he asked curiously and Naruto only nodded. Kakashi brought his free hand on his chin

"You didn't force her to come or anything, did you, Naruto?" he asked. Naruto's eyes went wide "What?! I would never force Hinata-chan on anything! She was the first to choose to come with me from the beginning!" he shouted and crossed his arms over his chest. Kakashi's eye went wide once more. Realization hit him. He smiled once more. Maybe there was a chance for his knucklehead student to find something more than power and cool techniques out there ne? "Very well. Just take care of your girlfriend, Naruto" he said, wanting to tease his student. Naruto was slightly offended as his eyes formed an 0.0

Before he could protest or anything, Kakashi poofed out of existence, the last expression on his face being a knowing smile. Naruto sighed and kept it to himself. What did he mean by 'girlfriend'? Sakura was out of question, since Sasuke was more likely to get her. Wait… Hinata?

He blushed at the thought of Hinata being his girlfriend. Reasons: Unkown for now.

He shook his head and kept walking towards his apartment. Hinata wasn't an open person. He didn't know her much, but what Tsunade said about her abusive father… he would get to know the girl more during their journey. Another thing to do added in his 'Challenges' list! Hinata always was on his 'Weird people' list till recently, until he realized that she was a lot nicer person that he already thought her as. And this in only a few training days… imagine months or years! Yep, they had time, and he was going to use it. He grew bored of being alone all his life. Maybe he could give her a shot… maybe she could help him reach out of this hell…

XxxxX

Meanwhile at Sakura's house

Sakura hugged her mother tightly. "Don't worry Kaa-san. Sasuke-kun and Naruto are strong, they'll protect me" she said reassuringly, trying to ease her mother's fear. It wasn't easy to have your daughter going away, maybe forever "And where are you going?" her mother asked anxiously, her tears dry now as concern and curiosity won over.

Sakura shook her head. "I'm sorry mom. I can't tell neither do I know…' she thought the last part to herself. True, they hadn't discussed where they were to go. Well, they could always talk this out on the road ne?

She nodded and smiled "Okay, I just want you to write to us every now and then. You can do this, can't you?" she said and titled her head to the side slightly. Sakura sighed "Yes mom, I'll write" she said and gave her mother a final hug.

"Be safe" her mother whispered and Sakura nodded on her shoulder. With a kiss on the cheek, she run out of the door and into the now filling streets of Konoha…

XxxxX

With Sasuke

'Were did I put it?' the onyx haired boy thought as he kept rummaging through his clothes. Finally, he found what he was looking for. It was…

'Hmm… it needs shining' he thought as he unsheathed his blade. It was a long katana sword, though the edge was straight instead of turning, the hilt made of thick leather, the blade made of pure steel. It could cut through a Samurai's armor as if it was hot butter. He smirked. Let Orochimaru come and take him. He would have to deal with his little friend here first…

XxxxX

Turning the camera to Hinata (0.o were did I get that?)

The lavender eyed girl was neatly packing clothes in her bedroom. She had prepared a travel pack meant for a rather long journey. They hadn't organized the travel yet. What the people of Konoha would know was that they went on a mission, and they never returned. If they wanted, they could tell their family with the precaution that they would keep it a secret. Sakura had told her parents, knowing that they didn't deserve to be worried to death. Now… Hinata telling her father, not the most appropriate thing to do. Not that he would be worried, but he was most likely to forbid her from leaving. Not only because she was the heir, but also because she was going with him…

Why the hell couldn't he just let her be happy for once?

A journey with Naruto… a new life with him. Well they would also have company ne? Sakura and Sasuke weren't bad. Sasuke wasn't a cold cube as he let people know. Instead, he knew that he could trust Hinata, thus being warmer towards her. Well, it was also because she wasn't one of his annoying fan girls. He saw her as a friend, and she was glad. She wanted to have friends, though with Naruto… she sought for something more…

The only one in her family that deserved to know was Neji. He was the only one in this clan that deserved the truth by her opinion.

A knock on the door.

"Come in" she said softly and the door slowly slid open, revealing a tall, white dressed Neji. "Hinata-sama, you called?" he asked and grinned. Hinata sighed. He played with formality quite much lately…

He walked in and immediately took notice of the few packed clothes and the backpack. He raised an eyebrow. "Going on a mission, Hinata-sama?" he asked and Hinata, to his surprise, shook her head.

"I'm going… away, Neji-nii-san" she simply said and packed one last cloth in her backpack before zipping in closed. Looking at Neji, she noticed his wide eyed expression.

His eyes slowly returned to normal, and he grinned "And may I ask, with who, and where?" he said. Hinata looked around worriedly, as if she expected someone to jump out of nowhere. She stood up and walked towards the door. Peaking her head out, she looked at both sides of the hallway. It was clear. Closing the door, she went back in and sat on the bed. Neji just stood there, giving her a look that stated all he didn't put in words. He expected explanations.

"Neji-nii-san, I don't want anyone else to know about this conversation alright?" she said, a tint of worry in her always soft voice. He only nodded in response. She slowly took a deep breath, and sighed

She explained the whole situation. They were to go on a 'mission' while in truth they were leaving the village. They would be marked MIA (missing in action) by the Hokage, and they would be able to start a better life somewhere else. When she finished her part, Neji did something that clearly took her off guard. He smiled…

"I'm proud of you, Hinata-sama. Though I don't approve of running away from your father and problems like this, it is more likely that a better future awaits you out there. Oh, and I have my own news for you…" he said and his expression darkened. Hinata knew that when Neji did that, it wasn't good

"Hinata-sama, I have accidentally overheard a conversation your father had with the elders. I heard the whole thing, so it is most likely that I speak truth." He said and took a glance at the girl in front of him, wanting to make sure he had her full attention. He smiled sadly "They are going to unseal me…" he said, but there was no happiness in his voice. Instead, a sad smile crept on his face. Hinata looked at him worriedly

"But nii-san, that's good isn't it?" she asked half-heartedly. She was happy that her cousin, and close to 'brother' was finally going to be free of this curse, but why wasn't HE happy?

"Hinata-sama… I will be freed… only to become the next heir of the clan" he said and she gasped. But… if he was to be the heir… then she…

He looked at her again, only to see fear and sorrow in her expression. "They will move and seal you Hinata-sama. That is why it is best for you to seek a new life. There is nothing left here, nothing but sorrow. You must take this chance, go, go now before it's too late. They will be here in mere minutes to take and seal you. The reason I came in the first place was to tell you to flee. But, I see that you have already planned a better life, haven't you?" he said and smiled. She smiled back and hugged him

"Thank you nii-san" she whispered. He hugged her back "Don't worry Hinata-sama. I will change the Hyuuga's for all of us, for you, for me, for Naruto" he said and broke apart. He activated his Byakugan. His eyes went wide "They are coming! Quickly Hinata-sama get out of here!" he said and stood up. Guards, along with her father were quickly approaching.

Hinata nodded and took her backpack in hand. Shifting it on her back, she opened her window. Taking one last glance at her cousin, she took off…

"Good luck, Hinata-sama" he whispered and it was then that the door slid open. He deactivated his blood limit.

Turning to look at his uncle, surprise was evident in his eyes "Neji? What are you doing here? Where's Hinata?" he asked. Neji shook his head "I wish I knew, Hiashi-sama. She wasn't here when I came" he said, fighting hard to keep himself from smirking. Instead, he kept on a cold mask, void of emotion. Hiashi cursed under his breath. He looked up at Neji again. "Anyway, I'll send guards to find her. Neji, I need to talk to you." He said and his cold expression returned once more. Neji bowed lightly, letting a smirk slip on his lips for a mere second. He already knew what Hiashi wanted…

XxxxX

Hinata wandered the streets, thinking of what should she do next. If her father or any of the guards found her, she would be taken back to be sealed! She had to find somewhere to hide until the time came for them to leave. But where was the last place anyone would think that she would be…?

XxxxX

Naruto packed up the last cup of ramen before zipping his backpack close. He had half an hour until he had to go back to Tsunade, and he was already ready for the journey. Food, equipment, clothes and all the basic necessities were in that backpack. All he had to do now was wait… too bad it was also the thing he wasn't good at!

He sat on his couch, anxiously waiting the minutes to pass. He was extremely thrilled by the fact of this departure. He felt uneasy that he had to leave his village, maybe forever, but the thrill of adventure was filling him. He focused on the good sides.

He would be away from the villagers, away from all the hate, free to go wherever he chose

He would be out there with good company. With his best friends.

Yep, Hinata was considered a best friend. Who wouldn't want to be friends with such a cute girl?

Wait, did he just think she is cute?

His trail of thoughts was cut off as a knock on his door was heard. Who could it be? Maybe an assassin? Tsunade warned him that Danzo could most likely already be on the move. He casually walked towards the door. He could feel the chakra signature of the visitor. He didn't try to hide it, so he definitely wasn't an assassin. Anyway, what kind of assassin knocks the door of his victim? Wait, he knew this signature!

He opened the door with a grin, only to meet a smiling yet blushing Hinata. "Oh Hinata-chan! Where are the others?" he asked curiously as he poked his head out, looking around as if expecting Sakura and Sasuke to jump out of nowhere. Hinata blushed deeper now. "I-I came alone. A-aren't they here yet?" she asked, pretending curiosity in her voice. She knew they weren't here, but it would be a nice cover, pretending that she came here expecting the others to be there too. He grinned widely

"Nope. But you can come in, I need some company anyway" he said and stepped aside, allowing her entrance. She stepped in…

His apartment was far different that the Hyuuga mansion. It seemed… warmer… the smell of ramen was mixed with Naruto's… why wasn't she surprised?

They both sat on the couch. "So, you're ready Hinata-chan?" he asked, stealing a glance at her before looking back at the clock. Was it his idea or time was moving slower?

"Y-yes. T-though w-we should avoid other Hyuugas" she said and that caught his attention. He raised an eyebrow "Avoid Hyuugas? What for?" he asked and now his complete attention was fixed on her.

She started explaining the whole thing, what her cousin told her and what she told him. When she mentioned her being caged because of her weakness, she was surprised that Naruto didn't start yelling around curses towards her father. Instead, what he said made her blush like crazy "They don't know what they're losing then" he said and placed a hand on her shoulder. She nodded "Y-yes, thank you, N-Naruto-kun" she said and smiled. He smiled back. Another knock was then heard on the door. As his eyes turned towards the door, he also noticed time. He raised both eyebrows

Five minutes remained before he had to meet the Hokage for the supposed 'Briefing'. How the hell did time suddenly went by that fast? He didn't forget the fact that time seemed to accelerate AFTER Hinata came here and they started talking.

He shook these thoughts away as he walked towards the door. Opening it, a smirking Sasuke and a grinning Sakura awaited him. "Ready yet dobe?" Sasuke asked, already knowing the answer. Naruto seemed to be beaming. The thrill of a new adventure took over once more "I was born ready teme!" he answered back and Sasuke 'Hned'.

Rushing back in his apartment, he headed right to the bedroom. It was then that Hinata walked up to her newest teammates. Sakura raised an eyebrow "What are you doing here Hinata?" she asked and the named girl smiled while a blush followed suit "W-Well, I had nowhere else to go. Otou-san mustn't find me and…" she trailed off, sadness overwhelming at the thought of what her father wanted to do. "Why's that?" Sasuke asked. Hinata could laugh at the sight of both Sakura and Sasuke having an eyebrow raised. It was just funny, and she couldn't help but suppress it to a giggle. Oh, it surely would be an interesting journey… to god knows where

It was then that Naruto appeared, having his backpack on his back and a weapon holster at his thigh. Everyone grinned. "Let's go!" he shouted excitedly as he and Hinata stepped outside. They all nodded and Naruto closed the door to his apartment, locking it for maybe the final time…

After a quick five minute run to the Hokage tower, Hinata had said to the other two what she had said to Naruto. They understood. Having the 'caged bird' seal would only conclude in her staying here forever, bound by the seal's powers, being forced to live a life she clearly didn't want. She didn't want to stay away from Naruto… forever…

They once more stood outside the doors to the Hokage's office. But this time, they all had their backpacks loaded and were ready to journey. The doors were shut, and they could hear shouting from the inside…

Naruto was ready to open the door when a small hand grabbed his own. He looked at its owner who was no other than Hinata. She shook her head and motioned them to silence. The voices from the other side of the doors were more audible now…

"For the last time Hiashi! She will go on the mission and when she returns, you can do whatever you want!" the Hokage shouted and everyone chuckled silently, seeing the irony in her words.

"I am completely opposite to your opinion, Hokage-sama. I will not allow her to lurk around, shaming the name of our family even more. Neji has proven plenty of times far more suitable from my daughter for the position of the head of the clan. So, Hanabi will be the next successor after him." He said blankly. Naruto was raging inside, but Hinata's firm grasp on his wrist held him back. He sighed…

"Shaming? Damn you Hiashi, you are more blind even than Naruto towards your daughter!" Tsunade raged, but Naruto was confused. Why was he blind again…?

Hinata blushed, knowing what the Hokage meant, while the other two just threw a smirk at each other.

"Hmm? What does the demon boy has to do with Hanabi?" Hiashi said, and all four teens could imagine the smirk he must be throwing the Hokage right now.

Hinata once more was on the merge of tears, knowing what her father meant. Naruto on the other hand, was confused, but he kept it for himself for now.

"Don't fool with me you bastard! Hinata…" she was cut off by Hiashi's curious gaze

"What does she have to do with my family? She is a lowly branch member" he said seriously, and now the poor girl outside the door couldn't help but sob. Her own father… didn't even acknowledge her as family anymore…

They heard the Hokage scream and the sound of broken glass could be heard afterwards. They all barked in, and they stared wide eyed at the Hokage…

"Hmm? What?!" she asked angrily as she turned to look at them. They kept looking between the broken windows and the Hokage. Where's Hiashi…?

Tsunade looked back at the broken window. "Oh that. Well, I'll have it fixed in a few days. Think I'm going to use it a few more times, ne?" she said and threw a satisfied smirk at the teens, who all shivered.

"Alright, now with our job" she sat down on her chair behind the desk and the teens stood next to each other in front of her. She eyed them all, up and down. "Are you sure of what you're doing?" she asked, waiting to see doubt appearing on their features. Too bad, it never came.

They all nodded except of Hinata who was nodding like crazy for a few seconds. Fortunately, the others didn't notice, having their full attention fixed on the Hokage.

'She must have heard…' Tsunade thought and sighed. "I assume I can't change your mind?" she asked, not expecting an answer of course. They all shook their heads, Hinata having shook her own head vigorously once more. "Very well then. There's one more thing I want to ask. Don't let a Hyuuga close to Hinata. Am I understood? I don't want one of my best shinobi's sealed, now do I?" she asked and smiled. They all nodded. This time, Hinata was looking at the ground worriedly, as if expecting something bad to happen.

The Hokage explained the rest of what was to be done. The village, except those that were told the truth, would only know that they went on a scouting mission, encountered enemy ninjas, the battle raged and the outcome was no bodies on both sides. They would be marked MIA (Missing In Action), and she warned them that they would have to dodge the best way possible the ninjas she would send to search for them. She would make sure though, that this search wouldn't last more than two days.

So, ninja dodging for two days eh?

Naruto grinned and hugged the Hokage, giving a final goodbye before the departure. Hinata and Sakura hugged the blond lady too. Sasuke just 'Hned' and gave her a smile, something really rare for him to do.

"Take care of the idiot" she said to both Hinata and Sakura, who nodded in response while Naruto was fuming at the background. Sasuke smirked, bumping the dobe on the head before he could start protesting in his always loud manner. That caused him to turn his protests towards his raven haired brother, who just 'Hned' in response, making him even more furious. In the end, it took Hinata to calm him down. Sakura of course, was ready to give him a nice punch in the face, making him stand down even faster. The Hokage was a little amazed nonetheless, that the lavender eyed girl managed to calm him down without shouting, punching or anything else. She just touched him and pleaded him to calm down. The world is full of surprises…

They now stood before the gates of Konohakagure. A few more steps and they now would exit the village, and maybe never come back again…

Sakura wanted to come in order to test her potential on the outside world, become stronger by adventuring throughout it. Of course, she also wanted to stay close to Sasuke and Naruto, they being her best friends.

Sasuke needed to go with Naruto, if not only to stay with his 'brother', then to defeat his older one. He knew that Itachi was after Naruto for his nine-tailed prisoner, and that could make it even easier for Sasuke to find him and take revenge. Of course, it wasn't the number one priority, but it wouldn't hurt to kill your brother now, would it?

Hinata wanted to get away from her clan, get away from all this abuse, get away and search for a better life, somewhere were she could finally unlock her true potential. Hiashi always thought that through his way, he would make her stronger. Indeed, he was sure to make her shy and timid side even stronger, taking away all her confidence, making her think she was weak, a nobody. The other reason she came, was that she wanted to follow him. Him being the boulder that helped her stand when others would force her to fall. Him being one of the few that believed in her. If he was gone, from where could she hold herself? From where could she drain the power she needed to stand before she would manage to find her own? Her teacher and teammates could help, but not the way he did… not that way…

Naruto was finally going to get free. He wouldn't have to meet glares of anger and distaste everywhere he went. He wouldn't have to endure the villager's false hate anymore. He would venture outside, venture and become stronger, in more ways than one. And he would do it… with his friends by his side.

A lonely figure waited hidden in the leafs of a nearby tree, watching the teenagers preparing to leave the village. They were talking to each other, the blond of the group shouting something about ramen. He smirked under the shadows. 'It has began…' and with that, he became one with the shadows…

A/N: Well what do you think? Right now, I have limited internet access so reviews will be responded in a few days (After Sunday, to be exact). Please let me know what you think! I want to believe that the beggining is satisfiying. Oh, and if you read my other story 'Soulmate:By Your Side' or my one-shot 'The Reason', don't hesitate to leave a review, be sure that I will see it. Anyway, no updates till monday. Sorry mates, I already told ye, 'LIMITED INTERNET ACCESS!' :(