#past kid naruto would be furious to the point of tears

[daylighteclipsed]

Genuinely this is why I would kill for a scene where Sasuke calls Naruto out on this. Because 1. Sasuke is the only one emotionally perceptive enough of Naruto to understand that this, the fear of loneliness, is what drives pretty much everything Naruto does. Sasuke even sees how the Shadow Clone technique is Naruto compensating for the lack of human love in his life.

2. Sasuke has been in the position Naruto’s in now, admired by Konoha, so he knows that it feels empty. Because it is empty. Naruto has wanted this popularity since he was a child because he thought that it would solve all of his problems. It would fill him with love, and he’d be happy. But he’s still unsatisfied and lonely. In some ways, he’s more isolated than he was before, put on a pedestal, elevated above everyone else. Dehumanized in the opposite direction.

3. Sasuke is looking for any reason to keep Naruto at a distance, and Naruto protecting the people who ordered the genocide of Sasuke’s entire clan and then covered it up is perfect. Why wouldn’t Sasuke bring that up when Naruto tries to say that they’re friends? That would be my first argument. Naruto has no right to call himself Sasuke’s friend.

4. Sasuke is supposed to challenge Naruto like this! Sasuke and Naruto’s dynamic is set up specifically in a way that pushes their characters, forces them to grow and learn from each other’s different feelings, perspectives, and ideologies. Neither of them is supposed to be all Right and all Wrong. They’re Yin and Yang. They’re supposed to highlight each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Sasuke faces his trauma. He expresses his anger and hurt. He considers his own feelings. Naruto could learn from him. Naruto should continue to change as a character because of Sasuke.

5. If anyone is going to give Naruto a brutally honest “the reason you suck” speech, it’s Sasuke. And if Naruto is going to listen to anyone, it’s Sasuke. Naruto cares a lot about Sasuke’s opinion, and if Sasuke is straight up like, you’re a coward, you care more about having everyone’s approval than doing anything about the injustice in front of you, you are so petrified of being alone you would swallow all the bullshit Konoha feeds you, you think if everyone acknowledges you it will fill the void in your heart and make up for all the pain but it won’t and it hasn’t because it’s not real love and it never will be, you have the audacity to call yourself my friend when you are friends with the people who slaughtered everyone I love, you disgust me and are certainly not my friend, like. I think that would really Hit. Knock Naruto flat on his ass. Devastated but incapable of ignoring his own issues after that, especially if he wants to reach Sasuke.

Sasuke calling Naruto out on the crap he refuses to face or admit is maybe the ONLY way I could realistically see Naruto start to critically examine himself in Shippuden. Because Naruto won’t do it for himself. The above scene with Kushina is proof to me that the Waterfall of Truth accomplished nothing because Naruto clearly harbors anger towards Konoha but hasn’t accepted it in any way that allows him to express anger on his own behalf.

Naruto is right, and I hate how it’s resolved/brushed over with “being a jinchuriki is fine if you are filled with love” like. Okay emotionally perhaps that solves a problem, makes it bearable, but it doesn’t do anything about the politics creating this suffering in the first place. Nobody should even be in this situation. People, kids, should not be experimented on and turned into weapons of mass destruction for the sake of maintaining a balance of power between other nations. That’s fucked up and needs to go, and even if Naruto won’t get angry on his own behalf, he recognizes that this is wrong. He projects on and gets angry for other people. He KNOWS. But then?? Kushina says it’s okay because she’s loved?? And it was okay of Minato to do that to Naruto because it was out of love?? When it wasn’t for love but for politics?? Kushina wanting to die to spare Naruto a fate of loneliness and pain is an act of love. Minato sealing the nine-tails inside Naruto to keep Konoha strong is not. And, from a character standpoint, that’s fine if Minato is not exempt from propaganda and brainwashing. It’s more interesting if he’s NOT a perfect person or father. But he’s not condemned for this decision. Kushina is glad that Naruto doesn’t resent her or Minato for turning him into a jinchuriki, when he has every right to, and this is the resolution to this debacle, I guess. I���ve no idea if this is ever brought up again. Does Naruto think what was done to him and so many others is still wrong? I understand that it’s bad to hold on to rage and hatred, but letting go of that and moving on doesn’t mean you have to forgive what was done to you, and it shouldn’t mean it’s OK for this to happen again. Naruto, the series and character, is always so close to holding the corrupt system and political figures accountable for this crap and then just doesn’t.

[365daysofsasuhina]

[ 365 Days of SasuHina || Day Two Hundred Eighty-Six: Humiliation ] [ Uchiha Sasuke, Hyūga Hinata, Uzumaki Naruto, Haruno Sakura ] [ SasuHina, NaruSaku, vulgarity, bullying ] [ Verse: Best Years of Your Life ] [ AO3 Link ]

Love can make you do really stupid things.

She’s crushed on the sunshine blond since they were in grade school. There was just something so enrapturing about his energy, his drive, his exuberance. It felt like there was nothing he couldn’t do, even as he consistently got in trouble for being too loud, too rambunctious, too bull-headed. To Hinata, Naruto’s defiance and daring was like a vision of Spring in her Winter. Her childhood had been lonely, with a father that was too reminded of his late wife when he looked at her. A sister who was favored and basked in their father’s attention. A cousin she was never allowed to see due to a falling out between twins. Her meek nature kept her within her own little box.

But Naruto gave her hope that - maybe, someday - she could escape that box. Be as bright and as free has he seemed to be.

For years she kept her admiration to herself. Naruto was the odd kid out when they were young, tussling with bullies and giving the cold shoulder to those who gave it first. But slowly, minds began to change. His fight for attention whittled away their skepticism as he took on bigger and better roles. By the time they were in high school, the gangly kid had grown into a kind-hearted jock, beloved by many for both his smiles and his skills on the field. You’d be hard-pressed to find someone who genuinely disliked him. Even those jealous of his high school stature found it hard to hate him.

And though many of them had brushed him off when they were young, several of the girls found his transformation worth a second look...including the girl he’d always chased after: Sakura Haruno.

Hinata knew that if she didn’t speak soon...she’d never have the chance to speak at all. So one afternoon, after classes were done, she built up the courage and asked to speak with him...alone.

“Hey, what’s up?”

“I…” Suddenly her throat was dry, her lungs were flat...she couldn’t speak, couldn’t breathe!

“...you okay?”

“I just, u-um...I wanted to tell you that I, er...that I...like you a lot. A-and I know that...that I’m not someone you would ever...consider. But I’d regret it forever if...if I never told you.”

Golden brows lift up under their matching fringe. “You...you do?”

“...yes…”

“Oh...well, uh…” A hand idles at the back of his neck. “I’m sorry, Hinata...but there’s someone else. You’re a nice girl, but...y’know…”

She knew it was a possibility - a certainty, even. “...I-I understand. Thank you for...for listening. I’m sorry to have wasted your t-time -”

“No - Hinata, wait -!”

Skirting around him, she dodges his reaching hand and escapes into the hallway, nearly stumbling into a pair of other students before fleeing. Though she’d told herself she wouldn’t cry, tears fall free as she barrels through the doors and out into the yard beyond.

Stupid...so stupid…

As though the sky itself is mocking her, it starts to rain, and she’s drenched by the time she makes it home. Neither her father or sister are home, which she takes as a blessing. Stripped of her wet clothes, she moves straight into the hot shower, hiding under the water and steam until her skin is angry and red.

At least it’s Friday. She has two whole days to recover. Surely he’ll forget all about it by Monday, and she can just...move on. Pretend it never happened.

...yeah, right.

She’s never been one for social media, instead passing the weekend by with homework, movies, and games. To her own surprise, she feels marginally better by Monday morning, heading into school without a bow to her head.

...but it’s soon obvious something is amiss.

Heads turn, eyes stare, lips whisper. She’d be able to ignore it if it wasn’t so blatantly pointed. No one bothers to hide their gossiping, their glowers.

But the worst of it comes at her locker.

“Well, well...look who it is.”

Flinching, Hinata turns to find herself suddenly surrounded. A gaggle of girls - spearheaded by none other than Sakura - form a ring around her door. “W...what do you want?”

“Well, I just heard the most distressing little rumor,” the rosette begins, one arm across her chest as the other rests atop it. She taps a finger against her cheek. “You see...word in the hallways is that you tried to ask out a taken man.”

“I -? What are you t-talking about? I-I didn’t -!”

“Is it true you confessed to Naruto Uzumaki? Is it true that - despite him having a most devoted and loving girlfriend - you tried to cozy up to him?” Sakura’s sickeningly sweet act soon gives way to clear temper. “Because if that’s true, you little slut...I’m going to slam your face against that locker door until that idea fals right out of your head!”

Around them, a sizeable crowd is growing, attracted by her loud, furious words. Backed up to her locker, Hinata fails to fight tears, shaking her head. “N-no, I...I wasn’t trying to -!”

“He told me, you lying bitch! You think I’m going to believe you over him…? How dare you try to circumvent me! He’s mine - and none of your doe-eyeing is going to change that! If you ever try to go behind my back again, I’ll -!”

Her hand lifts, clearly making to strike a palm against Hinata’s cheek. With nowhere to go, Hinata gives a cry, turning to huddle against her locker and brace herself.

...but the impact never comes.

Instead, a shocked silence overcomes the hallway, and Hinata dares to peek over.

“...you realize that hitting another student is a one-way ticket to detention, don’t you? Wouldn’t want a spot on that record of yours, Sakura.”

Jades are wide, Sakura’s wrist held in the stranger’s hand. “...s-she started this!”

“If you really think a turned down confession with no real intent to date is worth assaulting someone...you’re an even bigger garbage heap than I thought. Take your insecurities and cry about them to someone who cares...like your boyfriend. And leave this one alone. She’s hardly about to be the reason Naruto breaks up with you. He’s got plenty without it.”

Furious color rises up Sakura’s neck, snatching her arm out of the boy’s grip. “...whatever. At least everyone knows the truth about that little harlot. You should’ve stayed in your corner where you belong!”

“Fuck...off.”

Harrumphing, Sakura stalks back down the hallway, her gaggle of girls trailing behind. For a moment, the crowds linger in uncertainty before slowly going back to their business.

All the while, Hinata barely dares to breathe, a strange hollowness in her chest. Everyone...everyone saw. Everyone heard. They all think she’s some kind of slut trying to steal someone’s boyfriend. All she wanted was to be honest...so maybe she could move on…

“Hey...are you -?”

Legs like jelly, Hinata shoves past her savior, pushing her way through the hallway traffic toward the door. She can’t stay here, she can’t stand the eyes, the words, the humiliation -!

She barely clears the doorway before her knees give out, mind completely overwhelmed. She’s ruined...the rest of her high school days will be spent in the shadow of today. How...how can she -?

Before she can skin her knees on the concrete, Hinata feels arms around her waist, hauling her back up to her feet. Still unsteady, she stays limp in her companion’s grip.

“Easy...take a second to breathe. I know you’re panicking, and I know that was a shitshow. But you have to breathe, Hinata.”

Gasping and trembling, she suddenly finds herself sobbing, the shock cut through by his words and letting her react. Even now her knees refuse to hold her, her will to hold herself up lost in the tide of her emotions.

Without a word, the one behind her gives a grunt and hauls her up further, carrying her to a bench nearby. Setting her on one end, he sits along the other, letting her collapse apathetically against him.

...who…?

To her surprise, an arm wraps around her shoulders, pulling her closer. Normally she’d flip, shoving him off and demanding to know what his problem was. But right now, he’s the only solid thing around her as she drowns...so instead, she clings.

“...I’m sorry about all that bullshit. You don’t deserve that...Sakura’s just an insecure busybody who thinks everyone’s out to get her. You didn’t do anything wrong…”

“B-but everyone...e-everyone’s going to -!”

“Naruto told me what happened. His mistake was telling Sakura. He’s gone today...but you can bet he’ll be trying to make this right when he gets back. He’s an idiot...but he’s not an asshole. Trust me, I know.”

It’s only then Hinata dares to look up, curious just who’s gotten himself involved in his mess. Pale eyes then widen as she recognizes him: Naruto’s best friend, Sasuke. “...y-you…?”

He in turn looks back at her softly. “...it’s gonna be fine. Maybe not for a day or two, but...he’ll set things right. Who knows...maybe now he’ll see her for the bitch she really is…”

“W-why are…you helping me?”

“Why wouldn’t I? Look...Sakura’s driven me nuts for a long time. She’s a nasty piece of work when she wants to be. I wasn’t about to let that slide. Just glad I was there when I was.”

“I...I can’t go back there…”

“...maybe we can talk to the school nurse and get you excused. Cuz yeah...it might not be a good idea for you to be there today. I’ll go with you.”

Still unsure why he’s trying so hard, Hinata nonetheless nods. Shakily finding her feet, she walks beside him back into the building. By now, the halls are empty as first period begins, and they make it to the office unfettered. Hinata explains as best she can, Sasuke providing additional testimony and proof.

“Well...you’re not ill, per se...but I think I can get you excused. If another student is going to be treating you like that, it’s not safe for you to be here. I’ll have the principal speak to her.”

Hinata knows that won’t do any good… “Do I...do I have to stay, and...and tell what happened again?”

“No, I have it all written down here. You go home and calm down. But you’ll have to be back in tomorrow.”

“I understand.”

“Ma’am, can I have first period excused to walk her home? She shouldn’t go alone.”

The nurse sighs...and then relents. “Oh, all right. But be back in time for second, understood.?”

“Yes ma’am.”

As they leave, Hinata grabbing her already-packed bag, she murmurs, “...you don’t have to go with me.”

“I have calculus first period. Might as well skip it. Besides...I do want to make sure you get home okay. You’re pretty shaken up.”

“...thanks.”

The walk is silent, the Hinata seemingly lost in her thoughts. Sasuke takes to texting, brow furrowed. By the time they make it to her place, he tucks the mobile back in his pocket.

“I told Naruto what happened. He’s pretty pissed, and says to tell you he’s sorry. Apparently he’ll be back for afternoon classes, and he’s gonna tell Sakura what for. So...tomorrow might not be so bad.”

“...that’s good.”

“...you sure you’re okay?”

“Not...not really.”

“I can stay.”

“N-no! You’ll get in trouble!”

“There’s worse things than skipping a day of school,” he assures her with a hint of a grin.

Hinata hesitates. “Why...why are you being so nice to me…?”

“Is that not allowed?”

“I’m just...curious. I don’t...know you. At least, n-not very well. Surely you’ve got b-better things to do, right?”

It’s then Sasuke’s turn to pause. “...I like you. You’re a nice person, even if no one bothers to see it. I don’t know anyone else quite like you. And someone nice shouldn’t be treated like that.”

A hint of pink blooms in her cheeks. He likes her? Or...does he like her…? His reply is rather...ambiguous. “...well, I...I appreciate it. But you really don’t n-need to stay. I’ll be all right, and you...you should get back to class.”

“...all right. Mind if I check in on you? Send you a text at lunch or something?”

“S...sure.” She sheepishly offers her number. “You...y-you better get going, so you’re not late.”

“I’ve got plenty of time. You get inside and take it easy, okay?”

“I will.”

“All right...see you later.” Giving a mock salute, he starts meandering back down the sidewalk.

Watching him for a time, Hinata eventually slips into the house. There’s still a lingering edge to her mind, nerves jumpy and anxious. But...she also feels a lot calmer now. Sasuke’s company seems to have helped quite a bit. Curious…

For now, however, she goes upstairs and curls in bed, phone on her pillow as she awaits a buzz in a few hours. Maybe, until then, she’ll just...take a little nap...

                                                         .oOo.

     OKAY FIRST let me say: I do not hate Sakura. I dislike some aspects about her canon character, but overall I'm not anti Sakura or anything. She just...works for the trope in this piece. Sorry Sakura fans, I just...needed someone for the role :'D      Anyway, with that out of the way...oof, this was painful to write. I was never really part of any big high school drama, so...I don't have any experience in it. And this is likely SUPER unrealistic and hyperbolic. But that's the fun of fanfic, right? But at least Hinata had someone there to come to her rescue. Hopefully Naruto can set things straight...yeesh.      But uhhh, yeah, that's all for tonight. In all honesty today was Rough and now it's super late despite me...really wanting to get some good sleep :'D So I better bounce. Thanks for reading~

[sparda3g]

Attack on Titan Chapter 119 Review

The craze fest of the anime is over for now, but the manga keeps on going. If the last season garnered new manga readers and caught up to this recent chapter, then what a hell of a time to witness the extravaganza. Isayama has said that this chapter was a rushed work due to his busy schedule. I believe 21 pages were needed to be done under a short period of time; needless to say, that’s pretty tough. Despite that one notable inconsistency and not the cleanest, this chapter was everything that the series is well known for in its highest degree. It was thrilling, shocking, suspenseful, and mind-blowing.

Right from the very start, the tension is incredibly high. Every possible setup is planted. Zeke is down, Eren must be stopped, Survey Corps veterans are on their way, and Falco’s life depends on Zeke’s feelings. The fate of the war relies on the brothers. One contact and it’s all over. It’s mind-numbing to even consider how a simple touch of the two is all it takes; like reaching for a touchdown. The last chapter was nothing but chaos, but this one lead everyone to throw everything they got. Whatever it takes. It’s downright enticing to the very end.

After a reminder on what I just explained, the action resume with the thrills and chills of Eren reaching for Zeke. Never thought a simple contact can be this exciting. They might as well pull an E.T. finger touch for the hell of it. Porco tries to slow Eren down, but good God, he gets pummeled really badly. It’s the worst beating I have seen in a while, and it only took two hits. Thankfully for Pieck, she’s back as Cart Titan and Magath takes a clean shot to Eren’s head. This is what, third head shot? The man is a true marksman.

I was hoping for Armin and Mikasa to reach for Eren, but unfortunately, Marley soliders are everywhere, including inside the buildings. This forced them to change the direction and take on Marley Army first before going to Eren. Judging by the end, that could be a fatal mistake, but we’ll get to that later. Basically, Isayama is preventing them to have a true (and hopefully) fateful reunion. Everyone else like Pixis and Nile is doing their part, so their plan is in process. It was going well, until Zeke finally wakes up.

Immediately, I begin to shake nervously for a possible end. The anime did announce the final season begins next year Fall. If you do the math, theoretically, the manga could end in next year Summer. Granted, there have been series that has ended in the middle of the final season, so it’s possible for this one to be the case. After all, Isayama is in behind the scene, but time will tell. With all that said, I don’t know where the story is heading, so Zeke and Eren making a contact has a good chance of happening. In short, I buy into anything what this story can dish out.

Although Porco got the beating of a lifetime, which says something since he has been pummeled a lot, he does receive a warranted truth of his brother’s last night. It’s worth mentioning that the reason why Porco was able to see it was due to Reiner’s hand causing a glitch of Paths. This was exclusive to anime with the recent change to have Historia explore Ymir’s life and near death in under 10 seconds. Isayama does work with the anime behind the scene. This is all nice because Porco can finally understand his brother’s love; letting out his burden in tears. As a little brother, this speaks to me.

Aside from world changing, the next worst case scenario is here: the call for the titans. Part of me want to believe Eren didn’t want this to happen, based on his expression. Actually, he looks like he was reaching his hand to tell him don’t. It’s likely he tried to keep the damage incredibly minimum, but everything as of late has come crashing down. Now that Zeke wakes up and about to call the titans, more people will die and suffer. If true, then I really pity him. No matter how well he planned out, the cost will always vary.

The scene with the huge gamble pleading from Colt is bone-chilling and quite saddening. This is all or nothing for Falco and Colt let Zeke know about everything, including his demand. All he wants is to save his little brother from becoming a titan. He only wish for Zeke to put it on hold and wait until Falco is far away. This is convincing. As selfish it is in a sense, it would have been a decent way to not kill off Falco and still roar to kill off others. Granted, it will still suck big time for Nile and Pixis, but Falco doesn’t deserve any of it. It’s damn suspenseful, and watching Colt’s expression was beginning to hurt me. The result: no good.

I should mention that this chapter is very worthy for live reaction. I couldn’t tell you how much I was furious when Zeke calls for titans. I only remember shouting, “**** you! What the ****!!” After cooling down, it is true that Zeke does feel the pain for doing so, but he’s a man on a mission. He will do whatever it takes to fulfill his destiny. It still pisses me off, but karma sure makes up for it down the line.

Clearly, Isayama has some hate on brotherhood. I guess Full Metal Alchemist is his most hated series. Joking aside, it pains the hell out of me when Colt refuses to leave, stand by to Falco’s side to the very end. Dammit to hell, this was gut-wrenching. Gabi, after growing up, now have to lose another friend or even a potential lover. Falco, Nile, Pixis, and the rest all transform to titans. This was a low blow. Those three didn’t deserve this. Granted, Pixis was seen controversial, but he wasn’t much of a bad figure by this point. At least he got to drink one last time.

I’m not sure if Zeke is aware of how much Reiner cherished these kids, but it’s messed up for him to send Falco to attack. Living as Reiner is pure hell. He stops Eren from escaping, but Falco aims for his nape. You could tell Reiner doesn’t want to kill Falco at all. If anything, the situation gives him an opportunity; more on it later. I was cheery when Magath takes a shot at Zeke; yeah, I was still mad at this point. Sadly, Pieck has to go against Armin and Mikasa. Guys, I like you two and all, but don’t make me hate you if you kill her. Just saying. Unbelievable that Floch is once again the sole survivor. Isayama, you better give him a satisfying death for all of us.

Reiner’s scene almost had me convinced me that this is the end for him. He wasn’t as suicidal as before, but the floor map made it possible for him to sacrifice his life for the one he cared the most. Case in point, Falco is close to devouring the Armored Titan, but that’s fine for Reiner. It’s his chance to make it right. It lined-up perfectly with his old intention to pass it to him anyway, so the setup was perfect. But of course, not everything goes accordingly.

I don’t have much opinion on Porco as a character, but his last action is pretty enlightening; a proper sendoff when all things considered. It is him that’ll take the fall. He could have simply just die, but instead, he prefers to pass the Jaw Titan to Falco in order to save him. That’s a nice twist; didn’t think of that somehow. I like his last standing moment; reflecting that he has no more regrets. He felt the brotherly love, and know that he’ll always be better than Reiner. Falco devours, but we don’t see him change back to human. The point is, he’s now the Jaw Titan. This was a really nice moment all in all. You did fine, Porco. You did fine.

The whole make or break scene is amazingly breathtaking.

The tension was already high; now, it surpasses the heaven’s sky. Eren hardening the titan to trap Reiner, so he can break off and run in person to Zeke, who is now in person but can’t walk. It doesn’t matter; all they need to do is make contact and it is game over. The suspense level is running wild. Reiner is a man on a mission; a mission that he will complete at all cost. Gone with Reiner the sad man; here comes the beast! The intensity is just crazy; I forgot what page I was on.

I was actually pretty upset when Jean and Connie interfere and shoots down Reiner. He’s stopped. Pieck is stopped. Falco is stopped. Everyone that is a threat is stopped. Yelena, Floch, and everyone in the Yeagerists’ dream will come true. Then, there’s the one with a rifle. The one that is called Gabi. I lost track in time, I don’t know who’s available to stop her. The answer: no one. The build-up to the suspense felt like time has stopped; it’s unnerving as hell. Then, the ending happens and as God as my witness, the final two double-page spread shook the shit out of me. Eren’s head flies off and Zeke’s dream dies right before his eyes.

Oh, how I wished I recorded my reactions.

Before I theorize, I want to express my thoughts on Zeke, starting with the bad me. This is what he deserved for calling out the titans. Falco was pure, and although he will return as Jaw Titan, the thought on his action was unacceptable. If this isn’t the perfect example of “Karma is a bitch,” I don’t know what is. Now the good me. It’s pretty sad that his dream has died, right when he was so close to make it happen. It is bad enough to see it die, it is worse that his little brother is the one to go out. Let’s not forget the amount of sacrifices and sufferings he has gone through. All of his hard work died in vain in a matter of second. Also, his time as Beast Titan is almost up. His chance to make his dream come true is gone.

The big question is, is Eren dead?

I do believe he’s not dead, but it is tough to figure out what he will do to escape death in that situation. I have heard the theory on manipulating the memories or creating an illusion based on Eren’s clothes. Recently, Isayama noted that he had to rush to reach deadline, so it’s likely the pants sleeve that was supposed to be ripped off was a mistake. I know some would argue that’s not possible, but I recalled other series having a similar mistake. In Naruto, a past character reflects his wish to be Hokage, only in the background, the timeline don’t add up. It was corrected in the volume release. Plus, it’s been a while since we’ve last seen Eren in person, so a mistake is likely.

I would guess that maybe Eren is pulling the same trick as Reiner back in the last arc with transferring the consciousness to the titan. The only part that confuses me is the fact Eren’s neck is wiped out. It was a clean cut; almost like the artist simply use an eraser to erase the neck region. Maybe the Warhammer Titan has a trick that he learned to do but kept it quiet in front of everyone. I honestly don’t know. For all I know, the pants could be a huge clue. If, and it’s a huge if, he dies, well, let the meltdown begin.

Whether he is dead or not, I do think it’s best to end it like this and call it a day. The plan is meant to be the end all be all, so it might as well call this day a great fail. We are due for intermission. It would be a good time to change the scenery, especially since Levi’s life is still in pending. I’m not saying it should change immediately; it should show us the conclusion first. That said, I would expect plenty of reactions. Yelena will most likely lose her mind. Floch will probably follow as well. I’m curious on Armin and Mikasa. For Armin’s sake, run away from Yelena. Gabi, start running.

This chapter was jaw-dropping. Despite not at its best quality, the sequences, the atmosphere, and the adrenaline rush were all top notch. The chapter’s title truly focus on the very concept. It’s disheartening on how it was addressed however, but it was felt, well-executed, and captured the spirit of brotherhood in its saddest time. This was an emotional roller coaster. The cliffhanger threw me off big time. I joked about Season 3 Part 2 as the true Game of Thrones Season 8; you didn’t need to kill the main character like one. In all seriousness, I don’t believe he’s dead, but the answer will have to wait and that itself is unbearable. Undoubtedly, the worst cliffhanger in the series. The wait is the true killer of them all.

[a-damson-in-distress]

Havoc

Fandom: Naruto

Pairing: SasuSaku

Plot: Sasuke knew people were still afraid of the club and especially of its Sergeant at Arms – and he wouldn't have it any other way. He had been untouchable then and still was now. Indeed, there was nothing and no one in this world that Sasuke Uchiha feared. Except Sakura fucking Haruno. Biker AU.

Note: I have waaaaaay too many ideas and prompts for this pairing, but I just had to write this one down, since I love modern day AUs. Let me know what you think of it. I live for your reviews, the more I get the more likely it is for this to live on and not die a miserable death as an unfinished prologue. *laughs threateningly*

"I swear to God, you're dumber than a piece of bread."

"Oh yeah? You wouldn't know what a piston ring looked like if it bit you in the ass."

"I wouldn't trust you with making me a goddamn sandwich, let alone with repairing a car. You're such a shitty mechanic you couldn't even fix a horse carriage."

Sasuke lazily took a sip of his beer as he watched the prospects bicker over how to properly fix a boxer engine. He already knew it was a crack in the valve covers, he had an eye for things like that. Sasuke could just step in and help them, but then again, where would be the fun in that?

Just as the two boys were about to get violent with each other, he picked up a small wrench and threw it at them. "Quit your damn pissing contest and get back to fixing the fucking car." The two boys immediately went still, threw a startled look at their boss, and silently resumed their work.

Sasuke knew he was an intimidating man; he had to be in order to keep the prospects in line. With his raven hair, pitch-black eyes, and 6'2 of pure muscle he was the epitome of terrifying. Add to that his rank of Vice-President and Sergeant at Arms of the infamous Havoc MC and you got one of the most dangerous and frightening people the quaint little city of Konoha has ever seen.

Emptying his beer bottle, Sasuke went back to polishing his black Harley V-Rod Muscle. As usual, it was a busy day at the MC's auto shop. Fixing cars was one of the main sources of income for the Havoc club nowadays, at least one of the legal ones. They abandoned most forms of criminal activities decades ago, with the exception of a few raids here and there and minor shady, albeit lucrative dealings.

Despite going mostly legit, their club was still one of the most feared and respected in the entire country, not least because of their ruthless members and their shared violent and bloody history. Even though they were docile now, memories of the club's merciless past were enough to keep anyone from messing with them. He and his brothers sacrificed a lot for this well-deserved peace and he would rip anyone to shreds who dared to take it away from them. Luckily, nobody was stupid enough to try. After all, their infamous reputation still preceded them, even after decades of tranquillity. Sasuke knew people were still afraid of the club and especially of its Sergeant at Arms – and he wouldn't have it any other way.

Smirking arrogantly, the raven haired man thought back to the time he nearly ripped a man's arms out in front of his entire club. He had been untouchable then and still was now.

There was nothing and no one in this world that Sasuke Uchiha feared, he thought proudly.

His thoughts were suddenly interrupted when he saw an old olive-green VW Beetle appearing in the shop's driveway. He would recognise this car anywhere in the world. Sasuke could feel himself grow nervous at the thought of the Beetle's owner stepping out any second. Please let it be someone else, he prayed silently.

Frowning in concern, he watched the door open with a loud creak as someone stepped out. It was already dark, and Sasuke couldn't make out who exactly it was, which only made his uneasiness grow. The person shut the door with such a force you'd think the driver had a personal grudge against the car. The figure whirled around suddenly and furious eyes stared directly at him.

Realisation hit him like a ton of bricks as he whispered, "Fuck."

Indeed, there was nothing and no one in this world that Sasuke Uchiha feared.

Except Sakura fucking Haruno.

Her perfect porcelain face contorted in anger and she threw him a look of pure disdain before turning around and heading for the club house. Despite wearing high heels she was surprisingly fast. The burning desire to tear the President a new one was probably what drove her, Sasuke guessed.

"Sakura." Calling out to her, he jumped to his feet, but he couldn't catch up. She didn't even flinch at hearing him shout her name; instead, she raised her left arm. The last thing Sasuke saw before she disappeared into the club house was Sakura's middle finger.

Once he reached the door to the President's office, they were already screaming at each other. Sasuke was just about to barge in, when Jiraiya blocked his way. Crossing his arms in front of his chest, the older man sighed apologetically, "Sorry man, I can't let you in."

Sasuke raised his chin and defiantly stared at the Havoc's Road Captain. "I hate to pull rank on you, Jiraiya, but you'll let me pass right now, that's an order."

"Sorry kid, I got direct orders from above to not let anybody disturb the two. I'm afraid the President's daughter outranks even you."

Sasuke snorted in anger and glared at the door for another moment, silently willing it to magically open itself. As he heard the yelling inside grow louder, he decided it was best to let the two blow off some steam in private.

He'd come back later to pick up the pieces.

Sasuke had gone back to the auto shop and decided to distract himself by helping the two prospects fix the Mustang. Just as he was starting to push Sakura's unexpected arrival to the back of his mind, his gaze was drawn to the club house as the door flew open and Sakura marched out, emanating fury and murderous intent.

She was like a Valkyrie, descending upon a battlefield in a blaze of glory, reaping the souls of the dead.

Sasuke remembered then how terrifying Sakura could be; and what an incredible turn-on that was.

He released a shaky breath, before raising his voice, "Sakura, look, I know it was-"

"You!", she growled, pointing her perfectly manicured index finger at him while stomping towards the shop. He was in for some serious ass-kicking, Sasuke knew that. Running a hand through his chin long black hair, he sighed in defeat and followed her to the back of the shop.

Just as they passed the prospects, Sasuke could hear the two boys snicker and whisper to each other. "Never thought that such a pretty little doll face would have the mighty Serg by his balls." Apparently, Sakura hadn't missed their jokes either, as she whirled around suddenly and pressed a big wrench to one of the boys' throats.

"Call me doll face again and I'll punch you so hard you'll cry for your momma." Sasuke watched the two boys' eyes widen in fear. Smirking proudly, he said, "I saw her do it. Don't tempt her."

Sakura dropped the wrench and walked to the office in the back of the auto shop with Sasuke in tow. As soon as he closed the door behind them, the raven haired man cleared his throat and started explaining everything, when he was interrupted by Sakura's cold voice.

"Sit your ass down."

He knew that commanding tone all too well and it did not allow any objections, so he obliged and took a seat. Sakura came to a halt right in front of him and leaned forward, resting her hands on the armrest of his chair.

Their faces were so close Sasuke could already smell the cherry scent of her lip gloss.

She fixed him with an unwavering stare and whispered, "Now you listen to me, Uchiha Sasuke, and you listen really good, because I will only tell you this once. If I ever catch you, your prospects or any other member of the club dealing drugs in this city or any other city on planet earth, I will come for you, I will strip you naked, cut off your balls, and feed them to you for breakfast, have I made myself clear?"

Unblinking, Sasuke answered, "Yes, ma'am."

Sakura leaned in even closer and snarled, "Good."

She straightened herself, turned around, and ran her slender fingers through her pink tresses. Sasuke could hear her sigh as her shoulders slumped. Seconds ticked by where she stood with her back turned to him, seemingly deep in contemplation.

That couldn't be it, Sasuke thought to himself. This was way too easy; where was the yelling, the punching, the overall ass-kicking? Sakura was obviously livid about this, and if he knew one thing about the Prez's daughter it was that she exacted sweet sweet revenge whenever someone wronged her.

Didn't think she'd let this go so easily, Sasuke mused silently, I thought there would be more-

SLAP.

His thoughts were interrupted when he felt a burning sting on his right cheek as his head whipped to the left.

Ah yes, there it was. Let the ass-kicking begin.

"What the fuck were you thinking?"

Pressing a hand to his cheek, Sasuke got up to defend himself. "Sakura, if you would just listen I-"

"Did I say you could get up?"

"No, ma'am," he replied, sinking back into his chair.

Sakura fixed him with a furious gaze mixed with suspicion. "I thought you were done with this." – "We are."

"Then what the hell happened?"

Sasuke sighed in annoyance and rolled his eyes. "It was just a stupid mistake, Sakura, it won't happen again, alright? So calm down."

Judging by the are-you-fucking-kidding-me-look on her face, that probably wasn't what she wanted to hear, Sasuke realised. "A stupid mistake? How can you play it down like that? This is a big deal, asshole, you don't get to play it down; you don't get to do this to me." – "I didn't do this to you Sakura. I told you it was a mistake, the prospect got too reckless and he-"

"You're right, it was a mistake, your mistake. You're in charge of the prospects, it's your duty to keep them in line." Sakura leaned over him again growling and pointing a finger accusingly at his chest.

"It is and trust me when I tell you he'll get what's coming to him," Sasuke growled back. He wasn't just saying that to appease Sakura, he was very much looking forward to ripping apart that screw-up of a prospect. He watched as she straightened herself again in front of him. The anger left her face and gave way to an emotionless expression. "Too bad I don't trust you."

Sasuke leaned forward in his chair and spoke with as much determination as he could muster, given the fact that he was scared shitless of Sakura. "Look, as much as I would love to see you kick his ass personally, this is club business. You can't get involved."

"I'm already involved in case you didn't notice," Sakura spat back.

"Well, this is as far as you go. The rest is up to me, and only to me." – "I told you I don't trust you. I'm not letting you handle this alone."

Sasuke ran a hand through his hair in exasperation. Slowly, he was losing his patience, and he had a shit ton of that when it came to her. "Sakura, you know what I think about drugs. I hate this as much as you do. I'm not gonna screw you over on this one. I wouldn't do that to you."

"Oh please, I'm not buying your self-righteous bullshit. In case you forgot, you don't exactly have the best track record when it comes to upholding your honour."

A look of hurt flashed in his eyes at hearing her accusation, but he blinked it away the next second. She was right, and Sasuke knew they'd have to talk about it eventually. Only I suck at talking, he thought grimly.

"Sakura… Back then, I-" The sound of Sakura's ringtone suddenly filled the room, interrupting his apology. Sasuke released a shaky breath then, he didn't know if it was out of relief or anxiety. He could hear her groan in front of him. Sasuke remembered she hated being interrupted while tearing people a new one. One look at her screen had her features soften though.

Sighing, she tapped the green button and held the phone to her ear. Sasuke could faintly make out a man's voice on the other end, but couldn't hear what exactly he was saying.

"Hey… no, at my Dad's… I told you there was something important I had to take care of… No, probably a few more hours… Today? I really don't have the time… Can it wait? … Alright, you know what, I'll talk to you later, ok? … Yeah, bye." Sakura ended the call and tapped around some more.

"You know you shouldn't keep your boyfriend waiting for so long. Dude must be pissed already."

Rolling her eyes, she pushed her phone into the back pocket of her jeans. "It's none of your business. And this isn't over yet."

"I told you, you should let me handle it. I wouldn't do anything to harm you," Sasuke said softly, his eyes gently staring into her own. She had her arms crossed in front of her chest and stared back with cold eyes. "Yeah, like you haven't done so much worse to me already."

A deep frown graced his features then and a look of sadness crossed his face. Sasuke was usually careful to conceal his emotions, but with her, he didn't care. "Sakura…," he searched for words, "back then, I was-"

"Save it for someone who gives a shit."

And with that, she left him.

Well, damn it all to hell.

[nh0323]

I know I can count on you too

Slightly out of breath from running away, little Hinata plopped down against a tree. Her small hand wiped at her eyes, but the tears kept coming. If it wasn’t her father, then it was the neighborhood kids. Nothing she did would ever be good enough for anyone....even at a young age, she understood that fact, and it hurt. Just as she was about to let out another sob, Hinata heard footsteps approaching. She clasped her hands around her mouth tightly, curling into herself even more than she already was.

If she had to choose between someone from her family or the neighborhood bullies, then she hoped it was the bullies.

“So it was you....” An unfamiliar voice has Hinata’s head rising slowly. Pale lilac eyes met with bright blue ones. Hinata knew this boy--vaguely, but she knew him--and despite his origins, she was still surprised to see him all the way out here on his own. “What are you doin’ out here all by yourself?”

He stared at Hinata, crouched in front of her, pretty close. Hinata pulled her legs up to her chest as a reflex, she felt bad when the blond boy deflated and leaned back. “N-no reason....”

“There’s gotta be a reason, you know? Aren’t you that princess or somethin’?” Hinata shook her head almost immediately. The boy, surprised by her sudden furious movement, jolted back. The boy fell backwards, and Hinata took in a soft, but sharp breath.

“I’m sorry!” Hinata held out a tiny hand for the boy to take; he hesitated, glancing back and forth between her hand and her face, before shyly taking it and allowing her to help him right himself. “I’m not a princess.....I’m not good enough to be a princess. I’m worthless.”

“That’s not true! You’re not worthless, nobody’s worthless!” The boy exclaimed, standing up with clenched fists. Hinata cowered back slightly. “Who told you that?”

“M-my father, a-and the bullies....I can’t fight,” Hinata rose to her feet as well, eyes trained on the ground and hands to her chest. The blond boy noticed that she busied herself by playing with her fingers. She was kind of weird. “I’m not strong enough, not brave enough. I’m just not enough, no matter how hard I work.”

“Then you gotta work harder! You gotta show everyone that you are enough, you know! Just like me, when I grow up, I’m going to become hokage and everyone is going to look up to me!” The blond boy grinned, swiping under his nose with his index finger. Hinata felt something sit within her, and she couldn’t help but return his confident and determined smile. “Say, what’s your name?”

“My name is Hinata Hyuuga, what’s your name?”

“Naruto Uzumaki is my name, you wanna be fri--”

“Lady Hinata! There you are,” Naruto is the one to gasp this time, and he waves at Hinata quickly before dashing away into the woods. Hinata stared after him even when she couldn’t make out his bright yellow hair anymore. “Do you have any idea how long we’ve been searching for you? It’s dangerous to be out alone at your age, especially with trouble makers like that demon-child, come now, Lady Hinata. You have to resume your training.”

‘Demon child?’ Hinata thought to herself as she was dragged away. She muddled over the cruel title until they reached the compound again, where she was busied with receiving a lecture and getting ready for training once more.

Hinata slowed her running down to a stop--she leaned against her usual tree to catch her breath, the hand that was at her chest tightened gradually as she her mind raced with thoughts that have been haunting her for the past couple of weeks. She tried her best, she didn’t give up, but in the end, she still failed her chunin exams. Her training has been intense ever since she recovered, and she knew that she had to get away before she broke again. Hinata tried to calm down. She didn’t want to cry anymore, but her frustrations were unwinding fast. Hinata’s head snapped up, though, when she sensed someone near. Her heart began beating faster as she activated her byakugan, searching the area around her.

She gasped, hands clutching at her chest tighter. It was Naruto.

“Oh--Hey, Hinata!” Naruto ran up to Hinata, waving wildly. She blushed, waving back shyly. “What are you doin’ out here? Aren’t you s’posed to be training? Kiba said it was real intense.” Naruto rested his arms behind his head, a look of confusion on his face. Hinata’s mind raced with what to say, causing the two to stand in silence for a bit longer than necessary.

Hinata took a deep breath, scanning the area around them once more before she answered. “I-I was training, but.....I had to get away....for a bit, at least.....” Hinata trailed off, fingers pushing against each other out of habit. “W-what about you, Naruto-kun? This area is pretty obscure...” Hinata thinks back to that moment when they were kids, Naruto cheering Hinata up with little effort. 

Naruto beamed, pleasantly surprised that Hinata was continuing the conversation. “I like to come out here sometimes. I mean, I usually hang around up on the Hokage Mountain, but here is nice and secluded. But anyways, I’m glad I stumbled across you, Hinata!” Hinata blushed deeper, her breath nearly taken away. “Hearing that you’ve been working hard is getting me fired up again!” Naruto clenched his fist, wide grin on his face.

“E-eh? But I....I failed my exams, I’m sure you’re working harder than m--” Naruto lurched forwards excitedly, his and Hinata’s noses nearly touched. Hinata felt ready to pass out.

“Nonsense, Hinata! You worked hard that last round and pushed yourself to your limits and then some, you were amazing!” Naruto backed up and pointed his thumb at himself. “I’m going to make sure to show you, and everyone else, just how amazing I’ve gotten too, believe it!” Hinata watched as Naruto sped off, sliding down the tree closest to her. She let out a long, shaky breath, face too hot to be normal. After a few moments of calming down, Hinata got up and brushed herself off. She took a few deep breaths before heading back to the Hyuuga compound for more training with a renewed vigor.

Things have been nothing short of chaotic lately, and Hinata felt like she was losing herself. Everyone in the village have been working day in and day out to keep their home from crumbling, and Hinata usually wouldn’t, but the moment she found some time to take for herself, she did. Hinata slipped away, unnoticed, to the one place where she knew she’d be able to calm down. She arrived in no time, calmly walking up to her favorite tree, touching it’s bark and leaning up against it. To finally have some peace--even if it’s short-lived, even if everything around her was going wrong--had Hinata sinking to the ground. She rested her head back against the tree, eyes closed, breathing deeply. If she focused, she could faintly hear everyone still toiling away in the village. Part of her was yearning to go back, satisfied with the bit of peace she managed to salvage, but another part of her was keeping her where she sat. That part of her was the one where she wanted so desperately for things to not be this way, for everything to go back to normal when she opened her eyes and returned to the village. Hinata sighed and opened her eyes.

“Naruto-kun, what are you doing here?” She asked before he appeared. She couldn’t bring herself to be embarrassed, or shy, far too exhausted. When Hinata looked at him, he looked sullen, and Hinata began to wonder if she should even feel like she needed this peace more than anything; Naruto has been working the hardest out of everyone, he’s had the most pressure on him, he’s suffered the most, so he’s the one who should be taking break. Hinata’s face fell slightly, and for once, she took her eyes off of Naruto consciously.

“I was looking for you, Hinata.” Naruto replied simply, sitting down right next to her. Hinata’s heart jumped. ‘Even when I’m exhausted,’ she thought to herself. “Are you okay?” Hinata looked at Naruto incredulously, but his stare was serious.

“I’m fine, Naruto-kun,” She smiled sweetly, but her heart wasn’t in it. She supposed Naruto wouldn’t have been able to tell the difference. “more importantly, how are y--” Naruto held up his hand and shook his head.

“ Sakura told me that you bolted as soon as you had a break. Even I know that it’d take a lot for you disappear at first chance, you know. Are you really okay, Hinata?” Naruto’s eyes stared Hinata down, right to her core. She felt a chill crawl up her spine that turned into a familiar warmth spreading across her face. Tears pricked at Hinata’s eyes and she played with her hair to distract herself. She wasn’t okay, and it was becoming increasingly obvious, but she couldn’t speak, not if she didn’t want to sob right there. So Hinata shook her head just as slowly as the tears that began to slide down her cheeks regardless of her efforts. Naruto pulled Hinata into him, and she cried against his shoulder.

“Why, Naruto-kun? Just--why? How did everything get so bad? Why is it happening so fast? I’m so afraid, so exhausted, I just don’t know anymore.” Hinata sobbed her concerns into Naruto’s shoulder; he didn’t speak, not yet, only holding her tightly and being the support she so desperately needed. Hinata was kind, hardworking, selfless--someone that everyone admired in some way or another, as she worked continuously throughout the village in addition to training extra hard for war; however, Naruto knew what it felt like not being able to break out of yourself for a bit, and he knew that Hinata couldn’t do it in front of just anyone, just like how he couldn’t.

“I think about.....I think about what we’re all getting ourselves into, how we have no choice. I keep thinking if I’ll be of any use. I think about all the what-ifs, and how none of them could possibly be any good. I’m trying to keep it all together, but it’s hard. I don’t know if I can do this....if I can keep it together any longer.” Hinata’s voice sounded far different than it ever had; it was broken and tired, and she couldn’t see, but it made Naruto’s face darken with an underlying determination.

Naruto pulled away from Hinata with gentle hands on her shoulders. Hinata sniffled, avoiding eye contact with Naruto until he spoke. “Listen, Hinata. There are so many things out of our control here, so many things beyond us, and I ask myself the same things every now and again. There are a lot of things I’m not sure about, especially with everything going on now, but I am positive that we can do this--that you can do this. I feel like I say this a lot, or think it a lot, but you’re actually pretty amazing, Hinata. You’re strong, fast, your endurance is unsurprisingly really good, and you have many great skills. You won’t be alone in this fight, none of us will, so we have to pick each other up when the time comes to it and continue giving it our all. I promise you, Hinata, I’ll be with you whenever you need me, because I know you’d do the same for me.”

Hinata placed an anxious hand on Naruto’s, squeezing softly. She lowered her head in thought before rising it, her own determined look on her face. Naruto smiled, and began getting up, helping Hinata up as well. “Ready to give it another go?” He asked her with a pumped fist.

Hinata balled up her own hands and nodded. “I feel a lot better, thank you, Naruto-kun!” Hinata bowed to Naruto before heading off back towards her work station.

Visiting Neji’s grave after all this time still hurts. Two years isn’t a long time, but it’s not a short one either, and Hinata isn’t really sure how to feel. Hinata’s mind wanders through memories of her beloved cousin, how far they had come from their disastrous relationship during their genin days. She smiles fondly, but sadly, while thinking about how Neji would have been now. What he would have been like at their friend group’s little party they had months after the war, how relieved he would have been to have succeeded. She thinks about how he would have taken care of Gai-sensei, in his own way. Her face softens as she thinks about his reaction to her and Naruto’s engagement. He probably would have been proud, maybe a little skeptical and over-protective. Hinata rests her head onto her knees that she pulled close to her, getting even more lost in her thoughts.

After her elongated visit to Neji’s grave (tear-free this time, she thinks it’s getting a bit easier, as easy as visiting a grave can get), she walks the vaguely familiar path of the forests slowly, observing the nature she has ran past so many times before. Many things have changed, the forest included, but Hinata’s heart is able to lead her to the right tree.

“I thought you’d come here,” Naruto’s voice was like a comforting lullaby, and Hinata walked straight into his arms. He chuckled, snuggling closer to her.

“I still miss him.” Hinata’s words were mumbled, but Naruto knew exactly what she said. It is a sentiment that Hinata has expressed many times before, and Naruto has felt it too, very deeply.

“It really never feels the same without him, huh?” Naruto stroked Hinata’s hair, hoping to make her feel a bit better.

“Nn,” Hinata agreed, peeking up at Naruto. “I...I know you don’t like when I think this way, but sometimes....I just really wish it wasn’t him that die--.”

“Hinata...” Naruto looked at Hinata sternly, he brought his hands up to her cheeks and pressed their foreheads together. Hinata’s eyes looked tired, she must have been thinking about Neji for a while, probably not too long after Naruto had left on his mission. “he wouldn’t want you to think that way. He gave up his life so you could live, after all. Neji will always be with us; when we’re happy, when we’re hurting, when we’re struggling. He’s with us through it all, especially you, and especially now. I’m sure he wouldn’t want you to hurt over him, he’d want you to show him your happiness.” Naruto’s voice was soft, careful, and caring. Hinata looked into Naruto’s eyes; he was right, more than anything, Hinata wanted to show Neji her happiness--their happiness--to let him know that she’d be alright.

“I’m sorry, Naruto-kun.....and to Neji-niisan as well....”

“I’m sorry too,” Hinata looked at Naruto, face scrunched in confusion. “you’ve probably had those feelings lingering in your mind for a long time, I should have talked about it with you and made sure that you were really okay.” Hinata’s smile was small, it being all she could muster at the moment, but her feelings were conveyed.

“From now on, let’s make sure to talk to each other more about what’s bothering us. We don’t have to keep things to ourselves anymore in fear of bothering those around us, we have each other now.” Hinata beamed through her tiredness, and Naruto couldn’t stop himself from pulling her into a kiss. They both giggled softly before walking home, arm in arm.

“Alright, the sandwiches and rice balls are done, Boruto’s hamburg steaks are packed as well as Himawari’s pudding....” Hinata went over everything on the menu for their family’s picnic.....again. She had been preparing tirelessly for it since Naruto suggested it, as he rarely gets time off from working as Hokage. Hinata wanted to make sure everything went perfectly, even down to the food, mostly for her kids (Boruto has been outspoken about the issue, but Himawari tries to be understanding, though Hinata knows her daughter misses her father more than anything), but she would be lying if she said she wasn’t excited about the outing herself. Hinata finished preparing the picnic basket with a happy smile on her face, humming along to a happy tune.

“Mommy, do you need help?” Himawari latched onto her mother’s waist, her smile big and happy. Hinata chuckled and leaned down to peck her daughter’s cheek.

“Well, since you’re asking, can you get the veggies from the fridge? They’re in the blue container.” Himawari nodded and moved over to the fridge as Boruto strolled in. As usual, he tried to keep a nonchalant demeanor, but Hinata could see right through her son (not that it was hard to, he was pretty obvious, and that is something that has always amused Hinata). Boruto was just as excited as his sister.

“So...when are we s’posed to be leaving again?” Boruto asked coolly, trying to take a peek at what his mother was preparing.

“We’ll be heading out after I pack these last couple of things. You’re going to help carry everything, right?” Hinata smiled, but she had the force of a mother behind her gentleness that had a shiver run down Boruto’s spine and him nodding his head furiously. Himawari giggled from her place beside her mother, handing Hinata things that she needed to pack. When everything was all done, the three of them headed out to meet Naruto at their usual spot--an old tree that had withstanded the times. Along the way, Himawari asked her mother to retell all of the memories of her and Naruto at the tree and Hinata happily obliged. Boruto sighed, having heard the stories time and time again, enough to follow along nearly word for word in his head.

“Hinata!” Naruto called out, running up just as his family arrived. His smile was big and bright, and Hinata returned it, tilting her head up to kiss her husbands before they began to set everything up. “I’ve been thinking about this all day!” Naruto rubbed his hands together, eyeing the food hungrily. Boruto interjected, scolding his father for poor manners, the two getting into another debate. Himawari and Hinata shared a look before laughing to themselves.

“Alright, alright you two, let’s say our thanks and dig in!” Hinata clapped her hands together and gave her husband and son the same smile from before. The two of them straightened up and clapped their hands together as well. The family said their thanks quickly before starting to pick out what they wanted to eat; however, Hinata paused then gasped. “Oh no....” Hinata frowned, gaining the attention of the rest of her family.

“What’s wrong, mom?” Boruto asked, both he and Himawari looked a bit concerned.

“After all that preparing I did, I forgot the utensils....” Hinata’s head hung low, and her children moved over to her to comfort her, but then Naruto laughed. Hinata, Boruto, and Himawari looked towards Naruto, confused. He simply pulled out a bag from under his hokage cloak and took out freshly bought, disposable utensils.

“Looking for these?” Naruto grinned, throwing up a peace sign. Himawari beamed and went to hug her dad while Boruto quietly praised him. Hinata’s face softened and she let out a relieved sigh.

“Of course, I can always count on you, Naruto-kun.” The two stared at each other lovingly for a moment, then proceed to hand out utensils and food to their hungry children.