Demon Dragon Rider

Chapter 18: The Choice and the Trap

Hinata sat in the study of the Namikaze Estate, distractedly stroking the back of the blue dragon that was snuggled in her lap. "S-So you're telling me, I'm like you?" she whispered.

The person she was talking to, Naruto, just nodded. "In a way, yes. You're a Dragon Rider now."

Hinata looked at her father, who was sitting there in a stupor. He finally shook it off. "Mister Naruto, what does this entail?"

Naruto took a deep breath. "Well, that's where the problem lies. Hinata will get increased strength, speed and reflexes as her bond with her dragon grows. She'll also gain access to magic like me. However, there are some things that are not good," he said.

At Hinata and Hiashi's questining gaze, he elaborated. "The bonding with her dragon also gives her an extremely long life. As in...she'll continue aging to a degree, but she'll live for many more years than normal."

Hinata's eyes widened as this while Naruto continued. "She is in no way immortal, but most illness and diseases won't affect her. Not only that, but becoming a Dragon Rider also paints a target on her back, with both enemies and people seeking power. I fear that since Hinata is a Konoha ninja, this could lead to her being used by some of the less than reputable members of Konoha to gain power."

Hiashi's eyes narrowed slightly. "As the clan head and her father, I would never let that happen," he said.

Naruto nodded. "I know that, Mister Hiashi. But the Elders of your clan may not see it your way. They could replace you and sell Hinata's skills to the highest bidder. That is why I want to ask Hinata to do some things."

He looked at Hinata. "Hinata, I know that this is a lot to take in. But you were chosen by this dragon to be its rider. It is your destiny, should you choose it. If you want, I can train you to be a Dragon Rider. But I will have to ask two things of you."

Hinata bit her lip, looking at the dragon. "What...what are the two things?"

Naruto slowly stood up. "One would be you moving to the Namikaze Estate in order to protect you from those who would try to manipulate you for their gain. The other thing, I almost feel unreasonable in asking this. But, I have to ask that when we reach a certain point, you also retire as a Konoha ninja."

Hinata looked up at him sharply. "What? I can't do that, Naruto! I wouldn't be able to become the head of the Hyuga clan if I did."

Naruto nodded slowly. "I know, Hinata. Which is why I'm telling you these things now. I'm not asking for your decision. I'm just giving you the facts so that you can go home and think about it," he said softly.

Hinata slowly nodded and looked down. "Is it okay to leave...is it a him or a her?"

Naruto entered his mental link with Onyxia. "Do you know what gender?"

"I'd say a male from the smell. A young male," she said somewhat excitedly. There would be only a few years difference between them. He could be a potential mate.

Naruto grinned as he felt her excitement. "Easy there, girl." He looked back at Hinata. "Onyxia thinks he's a male."

She nodded. "So, do I take him with me, or leave him here?" she asked.

Naruto smiled. "Why don't you leave him here for now. But I would suggest you visit each day until you make your decision. That way he can still bond with you."

Hinata nodded as she gently handed the dragon to Naruto. The dragon blinked at her as Hinata and Hiashi stared to leave. Then he let out an almost mournful squeak as they left. Hinata actually stopped when she heard this before turning and coming back. She gently brushed the dragon's head. I'm sorry little one. I'll be back tomorrow, okay?" she said softly.