The Eyes of Fate

Chapter One: Keeping Secrets

Sitting on the rooftop, she brought her flute to her lips and played a soft tune, mentally laughing as she imagined Kaze dancing around her excitedly.

Swaying side to side, her short hair blowing in the wind, she didn't mind when she felt a familiar presence behind her. When she finished the song she was playing, she rested the flute on her lap gently.

"Lord Hokage." Hinata turned to him and nodded in acknowledgement, "how are you?"

"How are you, dear Hinata?" He stood beside her, leaning against the ledge. "I haven't heard from your father in a while, I thought that I might have you inform me of his whereabouts."

"Father has been well. He is busy training Hanabi in the way of the Hyuga."

"What about you?"

She shook her head, "I am already too grown to be taught by him"

"You're supposed to be the heiress, are you not?"

"Not anymore, Lord Hokage. The clan has decided that I am not fit to be the ruler of the Hyuga. Hanabi will be taking my place."

"Are you happy with your clan's decisions?"

Hinata thought for a moment and shrugged, "it is not my duty to meddle with the affairs of the elders. Nor should I worry myself with the outcome, that is Kami's calling, not my own."

"Very wise words for a young lady." The Hokage smiled, "but how are you, Hinata?"

"I am...content at the moment. We will be graduating today, and I am excited to be a wonderful ninja."

"And there is no doubt in my mind that you wouldn't be. Good luck today, and please tell your father to see me in my office." He stepped back and waved, disappearing in a swirl of leaves.

Hinata continued staring at his previous spot and frowned. No one has bothered to ask her about herself since she was stripped of her heiress title.

"Kaze?"

"Yes, Hinata."

"Do you think I'm strong?"

"Tremendously so. You have been advancing well in your studies, and your level of concentration and patience supersedes those of your age. What is the matter? Do you doubt your strength?"

Hinata got up, "no, I doubt my father's decision."

She fastened her flute to her hips and tightened her belt. Her bare body was a sight to see; clothed with nothing but bandages and an oversized shirt with a pair of tight fitted pants. It was quickly hidden away from watchful gazes, completely covered with a thin coat that seemed thicker than it was.

Hinata wasn't ignorant. She felt his eyes boring into her soul, as though he was looking through her rather than at her. She stood up straight.

"Good morning, Uchiha." She turned to his general direction, feeling the way his breath hitched at being caught.

"Hn." He walked out from behind the trees, his hands hidden in his pockets as his shirt covered part of his face. "Hyuga."

"To what do I owe the pleasure of piquing your interest?"

"What business does the Hokage have with you?"

"And that is your concern because...?" She narrowed her eyes, her fingers twitching, the wind ruffling her hair.

"No reason." He pushed past her, purposely bumping her shoulder.

"I doubt that." She muttered, flicking her finger and watched as he stumbled slightly. Holding back a laugh, she decided to walk the other way.