A Class Act

Notes: Ne-x-t chapter is up! Thank you guys for your marvelous reviews! A lot of people asked about Tobi's personality/behavior back a chapter or so ago. I hope this will explain things better. Also, Suigetsu finally makes his appearance! Also, thank you SunnyLore! You helped me so much with getting Tobi pinned just right. This chapter couldn't have gone on without you.

Chapter Six: Sleep-Walkers, Termites, and Tobi

Hinata woke up with the sun. It was a habit drilled into her brain, to the point the young woman's mind was like a ticking clock even while asleep. While the mind was starting to come around and ready to begin a new day; the body sought out the simple comfort of a warm blanket and a few extra minutes of darkness.

Yet, there was something bothering her. Hinata couldn't quite put her finger on it; the only thing the girl was aware of was a sense of 'wrongness'. Opening her eyes, Hinata gradually eased herself from under the covers, so as to not to be tempted into lingering.

Feet hit the cold floor, before finding slippers to slide into. Toes flexed, glad to be warm; meanwhile Hinata stood up and looked around her room. At first, her gaze completely bypassed the obvious; drawn instead, like a magnetic pull, to the clock on her dresser.

“I've got plenty of time to...oh m-my...” she gasped.

Sitting in front of her door, blocking the path, was Gaara. His back against the sliding door, the red-headed boy sat upright, shoulders straight and rigid, a sheathed katana nestled in the crook of his right arm, the handle resting against the wall. Though his posture was alert, militant almost; closed eyes and deep breathing made Hinata assume he was asleep. Yet, she wasn't quite sure and Hinata for one didn't want to get too close to startle the boy.

“I...I...um...” Hinata muttered, nervously gasping and spouting malformed words.

What was he doing here...in her room?

'With a sword in his arms too.' Hinata wondered, swallowing as anxiety started to creep up on her.

–

Outside in the dorm hallway, Naruto yawned loudly. Normally, he wouldn't be up this early; but his roommate was making such a racket getting his things together, it woke Naruto up prematurely. Scratching his belly underneath a pajama shirt, the blond opened his mouth-yawning again. In the process his head leaned back so far, the gray walrus night-cap on his head nearly slid off.

“Wonder if Hinata-chan is up yet?” he asked, rubbing sleep-gunk out of blue eyes.

Naruto knocked first, “Hinata-chan? You awake?”

A pause, then the familiar timid voice rose up from the other side.

“Um yes...b-but there is a slight problem. I...I can't get out of my room.”

Naruto blinked, slowly coming to. “Huh? Is the door stuck?” he asked, reaching and pulling it back; before Hinata could tell him otherwise.

“N-no it's...no don't come in!”

“Why...”Naruto started to question, until his toes met with Gaara's warm back.

He looked down long enough to recognize the person. Then, quickly snapped his head up to glance at Hinata.

“I-it's not what you think!” she squeaked out, while color flushed pale cheeks.

“Then why is Gaara in your room?”

“I don't know. He was here...w-when I woke up. Naruto-kun, maybe you shouldn't touch him.”

The blond grinned, “It's okay Hinata-chan, we're old friends and...owww crap!” Naruto exclaimed as Gaara hit his knuckles with the sheathed katana.

“The hell...Gaara...” Naruto muttered, waving his hand and blowing on bruised knuckles.

“What's going on?” a voice said to Naruto's left.

“Gaara's hold up in Hinata-chan's room. He's asleep... I think, but he hit me!”

A heavy sigh was heard, “I was afraid something troublesome would happen.”

“Hey, you alright in there?”

Hinata blinked at the new voice, at first hesitant to answer. Finally, a head peeked out to Naruto's left.

“Oh, Shikamaru-kun,” the dorm manager muttered now that she was able to put a face with the voice.

The new intruder then looked down at Gaara's bowed head, “Tch, man. Temari is going to have a fit.”

As if hearing the Nara's premonition, yet another person appeared, “Ah, this is where he took off to. What?”

“You were supposed to be looking out for him this time.” Shikamaru said.

“Shut it brat! I was dead tired from yesterday. Plus I had to deal with a bunch of stupid bugs. Which reminds me...you!”

Hinata blinked, “M-m-me?” the girl squeaked out, not sure what she had done wrong.

“Yeah, cause you turned in early, my roommate and I were stuck in our room with the termites.”

“I-I...I'm very sorry Kankuro-sempai. I forgot and...”

“Is that really important now?” Shikamaru drawled. Though his tone was dull, near monotone actually; Hinata didn't miss the exchanges of glares going on between Shikamaru and Kankuro.

“Don't get cocky. Temari can get away with talking to me like that, cause she's my sis. You on the other hand...”

“Um...I-I don't want to interrupt...” Hinata said, doing the exact opposite of her spoken intentions.

She looked to Gaara, “W-what are we going to do about...”

“Nothing. Just wait till he wakes up on his own. I'm gonna get dressed and catch some breakfast. Bye.” Kankuro mumbled, walking away.

“B-but...I need to get ready too.” Hinata said weakly.

Shikamaru rotated sore shoulders back, “It's better to do what he told us, Hinata-chan. Gaara sleepwalks.”

Pale eyes blinked, “Oh, that explains it. W-why my room though?”

“Well you see, it gets a bit more complicated after that...”

“...princess.” Gaara muttered, the words slurred by sleep.

Blue and pale eyes blinked almost in sync with each other.

“Yeah that. You see, when he's asleep, Gaara dreams that he's a samurai and needs to protect the princess.”

Naruto spoke up next, “Really? Weird.”

Brown eyes narrowed, “At least he doesn't mumble about ramen in his sleep.”

“I do not!” the blond protested.

“You do, dobe.” a third voice added, Sasuke appearing a second later.

Hinata felt her face flush yet again. She was starting to feel a bit like a zoo animal...or a freak show attraction at a circus.

“So, he's at it again.” Sasuke said simply while looking at the sleeping figure.

“It was to be expected. Haku was moved to a different dorm; but now we've got an actual girl living with us.” Shikamaru said, sounding exasperated all the while.

All conversation stopped, when a moan came from Gaara. Green eyes blinked open, Hinata being in his line of sight. The girl froze in place, Hinata's first encounter with Gaara hadn't been a pleasant one. So, she didn't want to think how he'd react upon waking up and finding himself in her room.

“Uh...g-good morning.” Hinata offered with a smile.

Gaara merely grunted and stood up. A crack of stiff shoulders and a free-hand rubbing a sore neck; then he approached the crowded doorway.

“Move” the red-head demanded. All, but Sasuke, scattered like insects exposed to a light source.

Green eyes narrowed, “I said move, Uchiha.”

“I don't answer to you.”

“Okay, enough of that. Save the macho for when we're all awake enough to place our bets.” Shikamaru cut in, shoving Sasuke aside so Gaara could pass.

The tension seemed to follow the red-head; which Hinata was grateful as Gaara turned the corner and vanished, probably returning to his room to change into his school uniform.

“Let's get breakfast, see you later Hinata-chan.” Naruto said with a wave, arm hooked around Sasuke's shoulder. At least, until the other boy forcibly shoved the limb away.

“Touch me again and I'll break your arm into so many pieces...”

“Haha, what a kidder!” Naruto interrupted loudly, patting the surly Uchiha on the back; while glancing over his shoulder at Hinata.

The young woman didn't know why; but she had a sinking feeling Naruto and Sasuke would start fighting again, once they were out of sight.

“What a drag. It's a wonder they've haven't been expelled yet. What?” Shikamaru said as he noticed Hinata looking at him.

The girl snapped out of her thoughts and blushed, “I um...t-thank you, for helping with Gaara-kun.”

Shikamaru shrugged, “No big deal. Just, be careful around him, alright? Gaara is okay if you keep your distance.”

In response, Hinata nibbled her bottom lip, “I s-suppose. I just wish he'd be a...little bit nicer.”

“Temari seems to handle him okay. Then again...” a short laugh escaped Shikamaru. “She's pretty scary herself.”

When Hinata blinked, as if wondering how he knew so much about Gaara and his family; Shikamaru sighed again.

“Never mind. All need to do with Gaara is keep your distance and adjust to his habits. If you do that, things will run smoothly around here.”

Hinata nodded in agreement, “Alright.”

–

“What?” Obito asked, holding his breakfast tray. Sasuke didn't expound on his message, just nodded. Obito swallowed nervously. “This isn't about last night, right?”

Sasuke shrugged, “I don't know. All I was told was that he wanted to speak with all of us; before classes start.”

Obito frowned, looking at his breakfast of pancakes and scrambled eggs. He had a feeling of impending loss of appetite. Meetings with Tobi weren't mini-happy family reunions. Following Sasuke to the designated table, Obito kept his head ducked.

Itachi to his left, Sasuke to the right, Obito seriously wondered if he was in for a scolding. As far as he knew, only himself, Hinata, and the Headmaster were aware of the full story. However, Tobi had ways of finding out.

While the dinning hall was alive with mindless chatter, laughter, and groaning complaints of a new school year; the Uchiha table was strangely quiet. Almost like, it was on another plane of existence. A vacuum which repealed noise and frivolity.

“So...” Tobi started, his untamed black hair framing a pale face with odd end and angles sticking this way and that.

“We have a Hyuuga female in our midst.” He smiled, yet it wasn't a nice or happy expression. It lacked joy, replacing it with a cold glint in dark red eyes.

“At first, I thought this mistake would be an annoyance; but the more I think about it, she could be useful to us.”

Obito's scowl grew. He was right. Tobi's slick and sneaky tone, made Obito's stomach twist into uncomfortable knots. No pancakes for him.

“We're doing well so far. Yet, mediocrity is not our motto. We're Uchiha, we rise above our perceived betters. Agreed?”

A few mutters from the table, namely Sasuke and Obito. Itachi was silent, yet attentive. No one at the table, could perceive what he was thinking.

“So, to get to Hiashi, you go through the daughter. Any takers?”

If the silence was oppressive before; now it seemed to form it's own kind of gravity, weighing down on all present.

“Come on now...” the smirk went from cold to manically playful- Obito wasn't sure which degree was worse.

“ Don't be shy. I'm not asking you to...profess undying love for her. She is quite attractive; but I understand your hesitance. A rather meek little mouse to be toyed with. It's instinctive to be afraid of breaking her.”

“...stop it.”

“Yes? You've got something to say, Obito-kun?”

The boy gulped, his fingers tightening on the fork, then releasing, “Hinata-san...shouldn't be used like your toy, Tobi-san.”

“Hn, so says you. Maybe, Obito-kun should be the one.”

“No!” he blurted out, Obito's mind flashing back to how horrified Hinata had looked last night. That had been an accident. How would she react at knowing he had used her; just to get a leg up in the Uchiha family? The boy didn't want her, or anyone for that matter; getting hurt because he couldn't stand up to Tobi and his games.

“Your face is turning red. Start of a crush already?” Tobi teased. Teasing like a cat does with a injured bird.

“No.” Obito repeated, his tone lacking it's former force.

“Alright. Obito has bowed out...like always.” Tobi said coldly, watching without a care as his cousin flinched.

“What about you two? Any connection you can build on with Ms. Hyuuga?”

Itachi raised an eyebrow, his gaze drifting to his brother. Sasuke, confused at first; blinked. However, it didn't take long for him to catch on what Itachi was implying.

“Sasuke-kun then?” the leader pressed, catching Itachi's not-so-subtle look.

“No. You're better off tricking Naruto. He's always hovering around her anyway.”

“Ah, but over time; even dim-witted dupes like Naruto, won't fall for the same trick twice.” Tobi mused.

He quietly watched as Hinata entered the dinning hall, being swarmed by the aforementioned blond and Inuzuka. Only to be snatched by Kakashi. Naruto and Kiba protested, grabbing Hinata's other arm. The result being a tug-of-war between the two tables.

“No, what we need is one of our own to get in close. Leaving already Itachi?” Tobi said suddenly, interrupting his own musing.

“I have to report for morning hall duty.” he said simply. Again, no inflection or detectable tone to give away his opinion on this meeting or the Hyuuga.

“Very well.”

Now left alone with Obito and Sasuke; Tobi paused, before uttering a small sigh.

“I'm disappointed in you two. Thought I could count on one of you, to take on this task. Think about it, a deal struck with the Hyuuga? It could advance you pretty far in the family.”

Silence greeted his baiting.

“Fine, fine. Guess it's up to me then.”

–

Her day had barely started; yet Hinata felt pulled in all different directions at breakfast. Naruto, Kiba, and Shino wanted her to eat at their table. Kakashi came over and tried to pull her away. With Iruka; giving disapproving comments about the silver-haired boy and his 'mind-games'. Naruto, noticing the flushed look on Hinata's face; told the Seniors to back off while taking her hand and pulling. Soon, Hinata's arms felt sore from all the pulling and tugging.

Yet, she felt bad and refused to be forced into picking a side; so no one could get mad at her.

Next, Hinata found herself taken hostage- again- by Sasori, Hidan, and Deidara. At first, she was grateful the third party broke up the fight; however seeing their scary and sleep-deprived face, Hinata quickly reconsidered. All three were complain of how she left them hanging, no extra beds to put out; so they had to sleep with insects crawling around.

“I'm really s-sorry. I won't forget tonight. Sorry...”

Hidan snarled, “Yeah you'll be sorry...ugh too tired and my skin is itching all over.”

“Um...” Hinata muttered, about to get up from their table, “Hidan-sempai?”

“What?” he snapped, violet eyes narrowed.

Hinata paused for a moment, garnering her courage before blurting out, “I...if you'll wait after c-classes, I have some medicine for itches.”

“What are you a walking drug store or somethin?” the boy groused.

“N-no...it's just a herbal remedy. I...I...never mind. F-forget...” she said, backing away from the table and her offer after seeing Hidan's narrowed gaze.

“Stop stuttering already, annoying. You give me the stuff and I'll see for myself if it works.”

Hinata breathed a sigh of relief, “I-it will! I've used it and...well...” her voice trailed off, not wanting to brag.

“Hey.”

“Yes...oh!” Hinata gasped as Hidan roughly grabbed her hand, jerking Hinata down so they were eye level

“If your herbal remedy crap makes it itch worse, I'm coming after you. Got it?”

Hinata nodded, “Uh yes...I understand, Hidan-sempai.”

Walking away, Hinata caught sight of the three Uchiha boys crowded at one table. Sasuke, she realized, Hinata knew by name. One boy had interrupted her shower; yet during the haste of getting to the Headmaster's office and the tired return back, there hadn't been time for introductions.

Also, the one with long and shaggy looking raven hair; was a mystery to Hinata. She hesitated, standing in the middle of the dinning hall, admittedly looking a bit foolish. Hinata inwardly debated on going over and properly introducing herself to her two charges.

There wasn't time though, the bell rung signaling the end of a meal and start of classes. It wasn't until Kiba and Naruto were walking with her, did she recall needing to be elsewhere.

“S-sorry, but I can't go with you Naruto-kun.”

“Why?”

“Yeah, you're our DM. You attend classes with us.” Kiba interjected.

“Um...I have to see Anko-san... a-about getting me into the other side of the school.” Hinata said.

Before leaving Minato-sensei's office, the two had struck a deal. Hinata would stay as the DM of the Ginkgo dorm, on the condition she could attend classes with her female peers. Minato agreed, Hinata would be able to focus on her studies than what the boys were doing, if she was placed among female classmates. With that in mind, Hinata walked to the main building, greeting Anko-san at the door.

“Kay, now here's a spare key-card. This will get you in and out of the separate sections of the school. You're to only leave this area, when classes are done. Now...yawn...not used to being up this early.” the secretary confessed.

“Anyway, you'll eat breakfast and lunch with your classmates. After classes though, you can go back to the other side, it's dinner and home. No in-between trips or letting any of the other girls have your card.”

Hinata nodded, proving to Anko-san she understood the guidelines put before her. Taking the key-card, Hinata about to step inside and start classes.

“Hey, hold your horses.” Anko said, grabbing Hinata by the elbow. Before she could blink, Hinata found herself inside Anko's office, the door closed and locked.

“Anko-san?” Hinata inquired in a small voice.

“Look, I'm not here to scare you or anything. But you do realize...how the other girls will react to you, right?”

Wide eyes blinked, followed with the brisk shake of a head topped with indigo hair, “N-no...well..it will be awkward, at first. I'm sure...s-some of them would want an explanation.”

Hinata instantly thought of Sakura and Ino's slack-jawed expression, to seeing her eating at Naruto's table yesterday at dinner. Fidgeting uncomfortably, Hinata felt her face burn, pale eyes roving away from Anko's pointed stare.

“No. No, you're not getting it. Girls, well they'll do some pretty nasty things, when boys are involved. And to be honest, you've hit the jackpot. Hell, I'm jealous! And I'm too old for that sort of crap!”

Hinata flinched as Anko leaned over and tilted the girl's chin up.

“At this age, girls are lucky to get the attention of one guy. You've got a captive audience of several. That's gotta to have pissed off a lot of your classmates. Jiraiya-sama was an idiot; funny and a mad genius sometimes, but a moron nevertheless.”

Hinata glanced up, “He...he was the one who put me in charge of the dorm.”

“Yep, supposedly he needed 'inspiration' for some dumb ass book he's writing.” Anko returned in a sarcastic tone, accompanied by the curving of her fingers into 'quotation' marks.

The young girl looked stunned, yet Anko wasn't done blowing Hinata's tiny mind.

“Just, look out for yourself in there, kay? You seem like a good kid. Wouldn't want to have you...I dunno having a nervous breakdown or something.”

“Um r-right. Thank you for the...advice, Anko-san.” In reality, Hinata didn't feel 'grateful' at all. If anything, Anko's warning, instilled a cold fear in Hinata.

“So, ready to go in?” Anko said with a light playful smile.

“I...I'm n-not sure.”

Anko's gaze narrowed, “That timid attitude won't help you with them, Hinata-chan. I said it once...I'll say it again. Girls can be cut throat bitches, when it comes to boys.”

After uttering her last warning, Anko showed Hinata to the door, showed her how to swipe the card and the code to enter; then walked off, muttering about needing coffee and something to eat.

Left alone, Hinata stared at the door, as though it was a gate into a terrifying and unknown destination. Hand trembling to push the door open, Hinata gave a weak laugh.

This was crazy. She knew most of her classmates, albeit not very well- too shy to make friends in the past. Hinata didn't think any of the girls she knew would harm her. Not on purpose. Sucking in a deep breath, then exhaling it, Hinata steeled her nerve and opened the door.

Stepping inside, the young woman jumped a little as it closed shut behind her. No turning back now.

–

Flipping through a magazine, Rin heard the gossip milling about her; yet didn't pay it much attention. There was talk of some girl living at the one of the boy dormitories. As the minutes wore on, a few of her classmates moved around to get seated. The brunette flashed a brief smile as a bespectacled girl asked to take a seat next to her.

However, Rin's light mood was disrupted by her talkative seat-mate.

“Um...have you heard?”

Rin sighed softly, “Kind of.”

The girl fidgeted a little, her thick glasses sliding down a narrow nose, “What do you think?”

Rin knew she couldn't put up a nonchalant front for too much longer- on the last page of her magazine.

“If it's just a rumor, it's not worth repeating.”

“And...? If it's true?”

“Shiho, I really don't care.” Rin returned with an honest smile.

“It's none of my business. Or yours for that matter. So, I wouldn't worry about it.”

–

While Rin was more low-key about the gossip, Sakura and Ino were fueling the fires.

“We saw her.” the pink-haired one whispered.

“When?” a girl questioned, tone teetering between excitement at juicy gossip and skeptical of the same piece of info.

“Last night. She was eating dinner on the boy's side. Talking with Sasuke too!” Ino answered in a hushed tone. Never mind, she and Sakura had conversed on the subject long enough; the whole hallway had heard different versions of the tale by now.

“Hyuuga Hinata, though? She doesn't strike me as the type.” Tenten said, visiting from the Senior hall.

“Who?” a girl with long and messy red hair inquired, while tilting her glasses up.

“Oh, you remember her. Quiet chick. Keeps mostly to herself.” Kin explained.

“That pale-eyed freak?!” Tayuya barked, “You're shitting me!”

The talk circulated as minutes ticked by. Suddenly, conversation stilled as the door open; assuming it was their sensei; all bodies turned to face the front, eyes to the door.

Hinata was shocked to see everyone staring at her. Pale eyes blinked, “Uh...um...g-good morning?” she managed to get out.

The silence hung in the air. Hinata tucked her head low, eyes fixed on the floor. She found an empty desk next to Karin, only to suddenly see it taken up by a book bag.

Looking to the hand behind the bag, Hinata was about to ask before Karin barked out, “Seat reserved...for a friend.”

“O-oh okay...” Hinata mumbled, looking next to Tayuya, who had her feet up to take the vacant seat in front of her. Kn, followed Karin's example; having a bag marking a seat for a phantom friend.

Tenten looked on, not amused at what she was seeing. No one was even sure if the rumors were true. Yet, as she lingered; knowing it was time to leave soon or be late to class, Tenten couldn't put up with it anymore; all of this passive aggressive bullshit was so childish.

Picking up Karin's bag, the girl carelessly tossed it aside, “Hinata-chan, there's a seat here.”

The girl turned to look, face flushed red with a combination of embarrassment and frustration, “B-but Karin-chan said she was...”

“Yeah, butt out Tenten!”

The older girl glared, until the red-head back down.

“It's okay, I'm sure Karin's 'friend' can find another desk.” Tenten assured with a smile. She really needed to go though, or risk being late to class. Grateful, Hinata nodded, “T-thank you. Karin-san...you don't mind, right?”

The red-head looked ready to protest, “Actually...”

Tenten cleared her throat, cracking knuckles in the process. Karin slumped in defeat, “Go ahead,” was the sour reply.

“I've got to go. Bye Sakura-chan, Ino-chan. Hinata-chan...?”

“Yes?” the girl asked looking up.

“Don't forget this.” Tenten said, still grinning yet being a touch cryptic.

–

“Did you hear?”

Rin's fingers tensed around her chopsticks. If she heard those word one more time...

“Yes. Since I know already, can we please...talk about something else? Please?” she asked, all but begging actually.

It was really annoying, gossip that is.

“Apparently, she's sleeping in the dorm with them too.”

“No!” another table-mate gasped.

“Yeah and...hey Rin! Where are you going?”

“Some place where I can finally have a conversation. Or get some peace and quiet.” the girl muttered, more to herself than to her friends.

Honestly. Who cared if Hyuuga Hinata was or was not living in the boy's dorm? It wasn't the end of the world.

Rin stepped out of the dinning hall, hoping to find an empty classroom. What she discovered instead, was the wide-eyed subject of the gossip.

“Um...s-sorry I'll leave!” the girl said, looking ready to bolt.

“You're Hinata, right?” Rin found herself asking.

The girl flinched, “Yes...I'll go.”

“No, you can stay, that is if you don't mind sitting with me.” Rin offered with a smile.

She looked hesitant, “Have you...”

Another sigh, “Yes, yes, yes. I've heard. I really...don't care though.”

“You d-don't?” Hinata asked hopefully. Just by looking at her, Rin could tell the girl had had a very long day.

“Nope. My name is Rin. Do you like umeboshi?”

Hinata shrugged, “I d-don't hate it.”

“Good, I can't stand it. Here...” Rin said, passing a plum-stuffed rice ball to Hinata.

“Trade you for the min-sausages.”

“A-alright.”

–

Karin was fuming towards the end of the day. Her afternoon rounds had just started, after the class of the day. She had heard all sort of things floating around the halls. Hyuuga Hinata, eating with Sasuke. Talking to Sasuke. Touching him. Breathing the same oxygen as Sasuke! Oh, it made her so mad.

Unaware, she was the focus of someone's outright ire, Hinata quickly packed her things at the last bell. Though no one had been outwardly aggressive towards her, Hinata could still feel a shift in atmosphere. No one would talk to her, rather they talked above her; as though she wasn't even there. Gazes were either averted or cutting. Even people she had attended classes with before, Sakura and Ino; seemed to be giving the cold shoulder.

Hinata thought, maybe explaining her situation would help; yet the girl had no idea where to begin. It was so unbelievable, Hinata was still trying to wrap her head around it. According to Anko-san, she was a victim of Jiraiya-sensei's odd whims. He wanted to write a book, so he put among a bunch of boys to...be inspired? Again, no one would believe her, since Hinata found it hard to swallow as well.

No one would believe her. Hinata had tried to explain to Rin; she didn't want to listen though. Instead, the girl gushed over that latest fashion or this band. Typical teen. Almost...too typical and normal.

“Almost...like she's faking it.” Hinata muttered to herself while washing her hands. The girl shook her head. What an odd thought. And about her only new friend- so far. Rin was very sweet and nice. It was just momentary lapses in her sincerity which bothered Hinata a little. That's all.

After drying off, Hinata was ready to leave the bathroom, time to get to the dinning hall for dinner and return to her charges. Pushing on the door, Hinata blinked and backed up a little to let Karin in.

Hinata was in a hurry to leave, so she missed the murderous look shot her way. Yet, she couldn't ignore the accusatory tone in the girl's voice. Nor the body blocking the exit; holding the door open yet not letting her out.

“Is it true?”

Hinata gulped, “I-is what true?”

Karin snorted, “Don't play dumb, though I can assure you...you look the part.”

In response, Hinata cringed yet didn't lob a verbal remark.

“What's the matter? Cat's got your tongue? Or...maybe you're quiet cause you know you're nothing but a shameless...”

“No loitering in the halls.”

Both girls stopped and looked up.

“I-Itachi-sempai...what are you doing?”

“Afternoon rounds.” the Senior responded calmly.

Karin tried to remain calm, turning up the charm to the Uchiha.

“Outside a girl's bathroom? Sure that's all you're doing, sempai?” she said wiggling eyebrows suggestively and tone a bit softer and breathy.

Itachi didn't rise to the flirting, but didn't condemn it either. Rather, he let the words go in one ear and out the other.

“Minato-sensei sent me to come get you”

Hinata blinked, “Me?” she hoped it was about her living situation. Maybe he had found a loophole.

“The Dorm Managers are meeting in his office.”

“Oh...” Hinata replied, trying not to sound disappointed. It didn't work.

“Well, I'll walk with you both then. I'm the manager of the Ume Dorm for the Freshmen and Sophomore girls.” Karin said with a smiling flash of teeth.

“You don't mind, right Itachi-san?” she all but purred to the older boy.

“I do mind. Hinata-san, walk with me.” It wasn't a rough order or strict command; yet Hinata still found herself feeling bad for Karin- who was left behind looking shocked and a bit hurt. Also, her feet followed after Itachi, not wanting to keep him waiting.

Dumbstruck, Karin could only watch as Hinata tagged along Uchiha Itachi. He was like...the Holy Grail of fan girls! No one dared to get near him though because, it was against the laws of nature! Something so perfect, so cool, and handsome; one didn't just walk up to him and gush praise, confess love, or even hand him a love letter- it was rumored being in his presence alone would burn the paper to ashes; unable to withstand Itachi's degree of awesome.

Yet, there was little Miss White-Out Eyes, following alongside him like some faithful puppy. Or a love-sick girlfriend. Karin exhaled a dramatic gasp. No! It couldn't be! It...wasn't possible, was it?

Yet as she softened her footsteps, hurriedly closing in on them to listen to their conversation; Karin found it to be more and more plausible. The Uchiha family was a powerful one. If Itachi wanted Hinata close by; surely his family could have made an 'arrangement' with the school, to get her in the boy's dormitory.

It all made sense now!

Karin paused abruptly as the couple stopped short of the front door.

“I need to tell you something.”

Hinata blinked wide eyes, “Um o-okay. What is it...Itachi-sempai?”

A pause, then he spoke again, god Karin could have just melted by on the smooth tone of his voice alone!

“About last night, though it wasn't necessary, you did me a great favor. Thank you.”

Hinata blushed and stammered in response, “I-it was nothing! I just...found it. Or r-rather Kakuzu-sempai..” the girl quickly shut her mouth. She hadn't want to bring up the subject of Itachi's classmate demanding payment to return his glasses. Yet, it got out anyway.

“I see. How much do I owe you?”

Karin's eyes bulged out, gasping for air. Did...did she just hear that?!

“N-no! It's alright, you don't have to p-pay me anything.”

“How much? If Kakuzu is involved, it obviously wasn't free.” Itachi pressed.

Indigo hair swayed with the girl shaking her head. “R-really. I didn't have to pay anything. H-he just told me to warn you...to be more careful about your...”

As though unsatisfied by that answer, Itachi glanced down at the Junior girl, “If you're sure.” he stated, walking again; Hinata scrambling to keep up with his swift strides.

Karin lingered back. This changed everything! She thought Hyuuga Hinata was Itachi's girlfriend. Yet after hearing them talk, something more sordid was going on. Right underneath the Headmaster's nose!

“But, if I go the Headmaster directly, that will make me a snitch. What would Itachi...I mean Sasuke-kun think of me, if I got his brother into trouble?” she wondered aloud.

Soon, Itachi and Hinata were out of her line of sight. Karin slowly walked the same path. She needed to get to that meeting, yet wasn't in too much of a hurry; attempting to think on everything she had observed so far. All the while formulating a plan as to how this would work to her advantage. Namely, nabbing the ultimate prize- a Uchiha boyfriend.

–

“Th-thank you, Itachi-sempai. You didn't have to accompany me this far, but...” Hinata cut herself off since the person she was speaking to, was already walking away.

Feeling a touch nervous, Hinata stood for a moment, staring at the door. Then shook her head, standing and staring at it, wasn't going to open the door. This was what she wanted...sort of. To be more outspoken and get better adjusted to other people.

This was her chance. Opening the door, Hinata quickly strode inside, grabbed the nearest chair and sat down.

“Um, you need to be on the other side of the room, Hinata-san.” the Headmaster instructed.

A flush of color was brought to her cheeks, eyes down; yet Hinata nodded and moved over to side where the male DM's were situated.

No sooner did her bottom touch the seat, did Hinata find herself staring into the face of a boy with short white hair. He grinned broadly, showing sharp little teeth just like Kisame's.

“So, it is true! You are the dorm manager for the Ginkgo Dorm. Right?”

Hinata tired to smile back, yet her attempt was less noticeable, “Yes w-well...it was a bit of a mix-up.”

“So, what's your name?” he inquired, leaning in closer as the door opened to let Karin-san in.

“Hyuuga Hinata.” the girl said softly.

“Hn, cute. I'm Suigetsu, DM of the other Junior and Senior boy's dormitory.”

“N-nice to meet you...”

“So, gotta a boyfriend yet?”

Hinata blinked. That's the second time she had been asked that, “N-no...”

“Cause you know, I'm available. Plus, you'd probably get sick of seeing the same faces everyday...oh hi Karin.” Suigetsu finished in a dull deadpan, as though she was spoiling his fun by being there.

Karin snorted in response, “Buzz off insect. I have to speak with Hinata-chan, privately.”

Hinata didn't know why, but a fine shiver rolled down her spine at Karin's 'request' to have a word with her.

However, Hinata was spared the drama momentarily; when Minato-sensei stepped behind the desk and spoke up.

“Thank you everyone for being here. On time, I might add. Let's get started. I know it's only the first day; but I would like all the Dorm Managers to get into the habit of meeting once a week”

Hinata was trying to pay attention, but Suigetsu imposing himself closer and closer on her person, was starting to agitate her. Face turning red, Hinata scooted in her chair, almost ending up in another boy's lap.

“S-s-sorry...” Hinata whispered.

“This will help us later on, when we start planning school-wide events. So, how is everyone? Did your classmates get settled in okay?”

A girl with long auburn hair spoke up, “Everything went smoothly at my dorm, Minato-sensei.”

“Thank you Manami-san. Anyone else?”

Hinata swallowed, shifting and fidgeting. She had something to say, but...

“I think Hinata-chan...” Suigetsu spoke up, pointing to the girl, “should start first. She's in a rather...unique position after all.”

Hinata wasn't sure if she should feel grateful...or humiliated that Suigetsu had called her out.

“Yes? There was something you wanted to add, Hinata-san?”

“Um well...a-about the Ginkgo Dorms. It's...r-rather old and in need of repair.” Hinata mumbled.

“What? Speak up!” this command came from a boy with dark skin and white-blond hair.

“S-sorry um...”

“Omoi” he replied.

“Omoi-sempai, s-sorry. I'll...try to speak up.”

Turning her attention back to the Headmaster, Hinata cleared her throat, forced to talk louder, “T-there is also an issue with termites. T-two rooms have been affected...as far as I know.”

Minato frowned, “That does sound serious. I'll arrange to have an exterminator come out to the Ginkgo dorms this week, tomorrow if they're available.”

Relieved, Hinata smiled a little, “T-thank you, everyone will appreciate the effort to g-get our home back.”

Following introductions, reports from each Dorm Manager, all eight members were asked to give a rough outline of activities and projects they wanted to work on during the school year. At the end, Minato-sensei passed out papers for the DM's and their charges.

“Make sure these are filled out and returned to my office on Friday. We'll look over these suggestions next Monday afternoon and come up with a tentative school calendar. Are we clear?”

“Yes, sensei.” the room replied.

“Good. Dismissed.”

Chairs were emptied, Hinata being the first to stand and ready to leave. She didn't get too far before Karin came up behind her.

“Wait! I still need to talk to you...”

Hinata turned to meet Karin, yet was ambushed by a strong arm around her shoulders, “Man, that meeting was so boring! Think we could get Minato-sensei to have us to a Christmas party, you know before winter break and all.”

“I...umm...” Hinata uttered, looking over her shoulder at Karin, while Suigetsu forced her to keep walking.

Behind them, Karin gritted her teeth. She'd get Hyuuga Hinata next time though. The girl couldn't be protected or followed forever.

–

“What are you doing here?” Sasuke asked upon seeing Suigetsu, his arm now moved around Hinata's waist. The 'couple' was standing just outside the gate to the Ginkgo Dorms when they bumped into Sasuke- returning from his first Kendo practice.

“Just making sure little Miss Hyuuga made it home safe and sound.” Suigetsu replied with a cheeky grin. “Then again, maybe I should spend the night too, make sure none of you perverted bastards can put your hands on her.”

Seeing Sasuke's right eye twitch a little, Hinata ducked underneath Suigetsu's grasp, “Um...thank you for coming with me Suigetsu-sempai, b-but you have a dorm to look after too. Right?”

He frowned, “Yeah I guess.”

“Good n-night Suigetsu-sempai.” Hinata said with a bow, then was quick to turn and leave; trying to get her blushing face to cool. Since her back was turn, Hinata missed seeing Sasuke grabbed Suigetsu by the collar of his uniform shirt.

“Whoa man, take it easy! I thought that practice with those wooden swords was supposed to 'channel' your hormonal rage. Ha!”

–

Strangely enough, Hinata found herself relieved to be back at the dorm. Her first day of classes had been rather stressful. And compared to the chaos from yesterday; the dorm almost seemed- dare she say it- quiet and peaceful.

Fingers curled and uncurled, a bit cramped from writing, while Hinata unfolded her legs. Before her, was completed homework, even the sheet Minato-sensei gave her was completed. Satisfied with a job well done, Hinata decided to hand out the papers to everyone else in the morning- before they left for classes.

“It's getting kind of late,” she muttered to herself, while brushing through her hair once again.

Kakashi and Iruka had volunteered to let her shower first, going so far as being look outs to make sure last night's incident didn't happen again. When she had come out, Iruka was yelling at Kakashi about...something; Hinata didn't think too much about it though. Kakashi seemed a lot nicer, if still a bit weird; then Hinata's first impression of him. Not quite to the degree of Naruto-kun though.

“Come to think of it,” she mused, “I haven't seen Naruto-kun since this morning.”

While she toyed with the thought of visiting, at least saying good night; to Naruto before going to bed, Hinata missed noticing the door to the common room opening up.

Tobi gently closed the door behind him. Wouldn't want to spook Miss Hyuuga after all. His footsteps light, he was pleased to see her back facing him. She also seemed distracted. In short, perfect prey. Ripe for the taking.

He wasted no time, kneeling right beside the girl. Hinata, feeling cloth brushing against her hand, jerked abruptly. Her eyes turned to him, pale and wide in shock.

“Um...h-hello...I-I don't think...” color rose to pale cheeks, staining them red. “I've introduced m-myself. I'm Hyuuga Hinata...”

Tobi smiled. Time for his plan to take effect.

“So um...your name p-please?”

His grin became very, very wide and cheerful, “Tobi is Tobi!” he exclaimed.

She recoiled a little at the loudness of his voice, “Um...okay...Tobi, it's a p-pleasure to...w-what are you doing?! S-stop let me go!” she squeaked as they both landed on the floor, forced down by the force of Tobi's iron-clasp hug.

“Hina-chan is sooooooo cute! Say you'll be Tobi's best friend! Please, Hina-chan!”

Sputtering and red-faced, the girl squirmed and tried to escape, but Tobi's bear hug-hold would not relent.

“Nooooo! Don't go away, Hina-chan! Tobi loves you! Tobi will be a good boy and you'll never want to leave me.”

“T-Tobi-sempai! Th-this is really v-very in...inappropriate!” Hinata gasped, trying to get up off the floor; yet it was a nearly impossible task, since his entire body weight was pressing down on top of her.

As she struggled to push Tobi away, Hinata watched in mute horror as the door opened. Another person about to step inside.

“N-no...don't come in!” she shouted.

–

Notes: Dumb cliff-hanger, I know. Wow, this chapter turned out...rather long. Sorry I spent so much with Hinata away from the boys; but I thought it would be better to give a feel for Hinata's situation with the girls. Yes, much jealousy and pettiness to come. Tired and cliché I know, but I think in such a situation it would be realistic...or at least I'll try to make as close as I can.

Much thanks goes to SunnyLore, she helped me with the Tobi parts!

Thank you guys so much for reading! Later.