◤──•~❉᯽❉~•──◥

❀𝔻𝕒𝕥𝕖❀

December 11th.

❀ℙ𝕣𝕠𝕞𝕡𝕥 𝕋𝕠𝕡𝕚𝕔❀

Arranged Marriage + Gifted & Cursed + Royalty

❀ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘❀

Teen Rated.

❀𝕊𝕦𝕞𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕪❀

Among countless princesses all across the world, King Minato and Queen Kushina of Konoha personally chooses Princess Hinata of Avalon to marry his son, Naruto Uzumaki.

Naruto Uzumaki, the infamous prince of Konoha, described as strict and rather cold, harbored, a conquest of dedication, a conquest to find the perfect wife to stand at his side.

But the numerous insufficient princesses that came to his door made his conquest a failure. Each of them was rejected by him.

All except one.

❀𝕋𝕒𝕘𝕤❀

Royal AU • Arranged Marriage • Prince and Princess • Angsty • Hurt/Comfort • Romance • Forbidden Love • Suspense • Angst with Happy Ending •

❀𝕄𝕠𝕠𝕕 𝔹𝕠𝕒𝕣𝕕𝕤❀

Hinata:

Naruto:

❀𝕆𝕟𝕖 𝕄𝕠𝕣𝕖 𝕋𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘❀

Guys, guys, guys, I just want to say sorry for updating so late. I have a reasonable explanation, haha!

So in the middle of December, I had to take college exams. I had to study really hard and take these exams seriously, so I had to sit aside my writing for a bit and I had to sit out of this NH event for a while.

I did well on my exams but with all of my efforts only granted me exhuastion and so I began to sleep a lot and... Blegh.

It's been rough but it's all said and done. Now my only focus is completing the prompts I have wanted to write for this event, finish the NH month event strong and bringing in Christmas with joy and happiness.

I truly hope you enjoy this prompt. I worked hard on it! (Took me a bit of time too, haha)

Don't forget to comment and vote!! 💗

◤──•~❉᯽❉~•──◥

A Twist Of Fate

Avalon.

Avalon's country was an arctic land blanketed in snow and ice, forcing Avalon's citizens to constantly scrounge for food and discover ways to stay warm.

Avalon's vast regions are divided by two worlds: the rich and the impoverished.

The gifted and cursed, one might see it.

On the other side of the city, hidden behind formidable gates, resided Avalon's wealthiest residents. With a magnificent castle perched on the edge of their property, enormous wealth and riches, an abundance of resources and harvests, jewelry, extraordinary gowns and suits, carriages, and extensive acreage, the wealthy lived in a decadent world of extravagances.

However, the Hyuga regime disregarded the poor, leaving them to live outside the gates of the kingdom in a land without suitable homes to live in to keep warm. The impoverished had to fend for themselves and gather whatever remnants they could during the harsh winters brought on by the bitter world of Avalon, a world that had been conceived by the Hyuga King and Queen-both the ruler and the destroyer of Avalon.

Being born into a royal family, where one has access to unending wealth and fortune and is simply given a silver spoon to suck on, may be considered a gift by some.

Hinata Hyuga, the princess of Avalon, however, believed that her life was nothing more than a curse.

An awful, awful curse.

≪ °❈° ≫

A loud purr of a horse's whine reverberated throughout the cool outdoors, drawing attention to the coachman, Iroha Hyuga, the driver of the beautiful carriage of Avalon's royal regime.

The sophisticated gentleman was dressed to the nines in a dark blue tux with black accents, perfectly hemmed and pressed. The coachman of Avalon, a devoted servant of the Hyuga King and Queen, also wore a black top hat and gloves.

The brown haired male let off a sneer at the horse's whine and went to use the paddle he held within his possession to grant control over the whining animal.

He snapped his body forth upon his seat to deliver a harsh hit against the back of the horse on the left. A sharp snap of a whip surged its way through the winter's air upon impacting the backside of the horse causing a certain someone to jump in fright.

"Quiet you!"

A shaky whimper escaped the timid princess of Avalon, Hinata Hyuga, a petite woman who stood awkwardly before her allotted carriage, a vehicle built of exquisite wood painted white and thereafter embroidered with gold patterns in the design of vintage, floral tapestry.

The marvelous carriage was accompanied by four massive, circular wheels which supported the vehicle and enabled it to roll onward. However, in the very front of the massive wagon were two gorgeous wholly white horses with white, silken hair that fell down their long, slender backs. Their skin resembled that of fluffy, white snow, which was an element that was highly prevalent in Avalon. The horse's hair also appeared soft and inviting to run one's hands through.

The horses stamped the earth with their hooves, swinging their angular heads back and forth as they waited for the command to advance.

As Hinata stood in waiting, she found herself deeply entranced by the beautiful horses that stood only a few feet away from her person. She couldn't help but be captivated by such adorable animals, brimming with vitality and gusto.

Hinata must acknowledge that she has developed a strong bond with horses because they were formerly seen as a representation of freedom and a wilder lifestyle.

Everytime, Hinata spots a horse, she cannot help but relinquish the memories of when she takes the time to secretly ride her own.

Yes, Hinata Hyuga, the goody two shoes, was quite the rebel, as she frequently took her personal horse, Grace, through the desolate pastures remote from Avalon's kingdom in the early morning hours, neglecting her obligations and the ethical regulations that were forced on her.

Hinata usually traveled on the backside of her white horse taking her many journeys through the lovely, fluffy snow, ascending and descending hills and passing ice-covered trees.

She harbored no worries or cares as she rode across wide-open fields of patched snow, just allowing the cool wind to blow through her midnight blue tresses and the benign sun freely kiss her fair skin.

She even crossed the borders that separated the two districts that comprised the country of Avalon. She passed through the gates that kept her captive and journeyed into the country where the destitute dwell, where a particular someone was there waiting.

A man, a love interest of hers, lived in Avalon's impoverished neighborhood, where he would greet her at the conclusion of her numerous journeys and provide her with the love and care she had always desired.

A man with black, spiky hair, distinct whisker markings on his rosy tanned cheeks, a genuine warm smile, and a heart full of love awaited her and gave her everything she could possibly want.

Her lover did so freely, without grand expectations, criticism, or harsh demands.

He gave her the freedom to express her true, unadulterated self.

He gave her all she desired, just merely from the one occurrence in which she helped him when he truly needed it. Hinata helped the poor lad by providing him with bundles of food, warm clothing, and genuine discussion. Such a genuine act blessed Hinata with pure happiness in the end.

Hinata finally felt free during those delightful moments of trotting on her lovely horse and meeting her beloved among the destitute district of Avalon.

During those priceless moments, she discovers the true meaning of freedom.

Hinata could not help the giddy smile that crept across her rosy face.

'Oh Menma...' The Avalon princess thought to herself in bliss.

"Hinata! Hinata, get a hold of yourself!"

The aforementioned woman awoke from her reverie and turned to face the source of her consternation-the feminine voice that had previously called her name.

Hiding underneath the broad umbrella that was held over her by her dear handmaiden, Hinata dragged her pupiless eyes away from the horses she once was gazing endlessly at to instead plant them on the tall woman that now stood before her, a woman she knew all too well.

Her mother, Hitomi Hyuga.

The Queen Of Avalon.

Wearing a dress that most likely cost more than fifty thousand acres of land alone, Queen Hitomi stood towering over her daughter, while gripping a white vintage lace umbrella over her head, to shield herself from the constant fallen snow.

Her outfit was entirely navy blue, a dark blue that reflected the predominant colors of the Hyuga royal family.

The Avalon Queen, Hitomi Hyuga, wore a navy blue, one shoulder, tulle gown, with gold sequin designs throughout, and a thin dark blue belt fastened around her curvy waist. In an effort to keep herself warm in the wintry weather, she also wore a long blue winter cape that was slung across her shoulders and flowed down behind her.

That did not, however, conceal the fact that her formal dress embraced every curve of her body brazenly, slipping down her remarkable figure like water, which Hinata knew was a deliberate effort.

Hinata never really enjoyed having her body on display or exposed. She was quite timid and wouldn't dare expose her body to anyone.

She wouldn't be able to muster up the courage to do so anyway.

So frequently, she receives outfits from her courteous handmaidens that complemented her personality, physical attributes, such as her long midnight blue hair and lavender eyes, as well as her sense of style in general.

In contrast to her unpleasant father and mother, her attendants even gave her the option to choose any item of clothing she desired within the dressing room. Such lovely ladies yearned for Hinata to be free to make her own decisions, to give life to her angelic voice, and to live out her own desires for a change.

Hinata appreciated her handmaidens and shared her appreciation by spending what little time she had free, to share quality moments with them.

She appreciated her handmaidens and they too, appreciated her.

As a result, Princess Hinata was donning a lovely outfit that she liked, one that was lavender in color rather than the Hyuga's customary navy blue and white.

Although the dress was covered with a white fluffy cloak to keep the Hyuga princess warm from the frigid weather, her dress was still visible down below.

Such a lavender tint to her dress, however, was a gradient one, a color that lightened the more it traveled down her dress, turning to a white shade instead. But that wasn't the only unique feature that was contained in her dress.

Her outfit gleamed in the sparkling sun because there were, in fact, sparkles of glitter apparent all over the dress, from top to bottom.

The actual material of the dress was tulle, which flowed from her bodice and slid down her body like exquisite silk. Such a bodice was also made of lavender tulle, decorated with glitter bands that lie vertically along her breasts, and draped over the hidden corset that was practically strangling her upper torso.

Her corset was tied tightly in order to push her large breasts as far as they could go, to present themselves proudly within her many dresses.

Hinata truly despised corsets.

Corsets were the epitome of desire, only forced upon women to wear in order to please men.

Women were put through the wringer only to appear presentable to the naked eye-to men's eyes.

Women were taught that the pursuit of beauty and elegance was the primary goal, no matter how many times they were probed, poked, squeezed, ripped apart, and broken. There was nothing more than that.

Hinata had to restrain herself from scowling as her thoughts started to take over again, pulling her back into yet another reverie but she was only pulled out of it by a loud groan of exapersation.

"Hinata!"

"Yes, m-mother?"

Hinata cowered away, further underneath the umbrella that shielded her from the fallen snow when she was given a deep scowl from her mother, her lavender eyes piercing her soul.

Hitomi scoffed, her lavender eyes narrowing, "What did I say about thinking? That is what you were doing just now, was it not?

"I-I-

"Women, do not think. You ought to be aware of that by this point, yes?"

Hinata had to bite her tongue, to stop herself from knocking down her mother's highly idiotic notions about women and instead instill her with knowledge, knowledge she'd only obtained from her many secret reading sessions with her loving handmaiden, Kureani Yuhi.

Hinata glanced over at Kureani for comfort, who currently stood beside her while also harboring a winter fluffy cape for warmth. She was dressed in a puffed sleeved navy blue dress with dark heeled boots.

Kureani shielded her dear princess from the fallen snow which came crashing down on the umbrella she held but unfortunately on her head as well.

Kureani's once-beautiful lace braid bun was now ruined by the icy balls of white that soaked her dark hair and rendered the strands disorderly.

But she never budged, she only remained perfectly still to keep her princess shielded by the umbrella she held.

The older woman turned towards Hinata briefly to reveal her concerned red eyes but Kureani soon pulled her eyes away when Hitomi glanced over at her, doing so with her hateful eyes.

Hitomi gave Kureani a quick look over before scoffing, soon reverting her attention back to Hinata who's settled on answering her mother's question by nodding, "Yes, mother. I am sorry for p-partaking in matters that I shouldn-"

"That goes for staring too, hun. It is not polite to stare." Hitomi tilted her head, all the while keeping her own head shielded by the umbrella she held, "Each of these concepts are already known to you because I made sure that you've received the necessary instruction. I should not have to remind you of what you already know."

Hitomi halted in her speech because she had the itching sense that eyes were crawling all over her body, taking in every detail of the experience she was experiencing with her wayward daughter.

She glanced over to her right only to find her guards snapping their heads away from her, to avert their attention elsewhere. But Hitomi caught them staring, she felt their disappointment and grew enraged because of it.

She snapped her head back over at Hinata and sneered, "You're humiliating me. I command you to stop being a disappointment for once in your life."

"Y-Yes, I'm sorry, mother."

Hinata's voice was meek as she obediently accepted her mother's verbal abuse. She was used to the yelling, ludicrous demands, mockery, and glaring.

In her mother's perspective, she was meant to be flawless, thus she was not allowed to make a single mistake.

Hinata's mother is certain that Hinata was taught everything that will undoubtedly lead to success, approval, and marriage with a prince.

However, Hinata believes that the various lessons she was taught during her wretched life were nonsensical and portrayed her as a sad human being who worried too much about what others thought of her and how she could instead please others separate from her with every ounce of her being.

Hinata believed she had been educated to be everything but herself.

Hinata didn't want to be that person.

But unfortunately for her, such beliefs that she has required would often leak out and reveal themselves and in turn get her into serious trouble.

Hinata wanted to keep all of it at bay.

So the midnight blue haired princess responded just the way her mother wanted her to, and tried her mightiest to avoid her gaze. She even held her breath so she would not make her mother even angrier. Any move could set her off and Hinata wanted to do no such thing.

Hinata held her position with her head bent, her gloved hands clasped together, and she inhaled as much chilly air as she could in an attempt to free herself from her mother's fierce clutches.

Lucky for her, Hitomi relaxed.

Hinata's mother let out a sigh once she grew bored of intimidating her daughter and soon averted her gaze from her, at the very same time a servant of hers rushed forward, in hopes of granting her attention.

"Queen Hitomi!"

Hitomi turned to face the newcomer in a navy blue tuxedo who was hurriedly waving his hand at her from a distance.

The Queen of Avalon cast a fleeting but profound glance at her daughter before leaving her side, strolling across the patched snow with her heeled boots, causing the sound of crunched ice to emerge.

Hitomi stepped up to him just as her servant made it up to her, doing so all the while panting as if he had just ran a marathon.

Hitomi rolled her eyes in response to the male's disorderly act before pulling one of her gloved covered hands to snap at the male, "Speak." She only demanded, doing so in a cold manner.

The servant that Hinata knows goes by the name, Tokuma Hyuga, a rather dedicated servant to both Hinata and Hitomi, now present on the scene with news, Hinata has observed.

Hinata couldn't help but smile at the sight of the courteous male before her. She watched him closely within the same place she was demanded to stand in as Tokuma began to converse with her mother, imparting the information he wanted to share.

Tokuma bowed briefly before speaking, "Queen Hitomi, I am here to inform you that everything is well in place. The royal regime of Konoha has notified us and confirmed their eagerness for Princess Hinata's arrival. They are ready for her now."

Hinata's smile suddenly disappeared as an expression of absolute shock took its place at the mere utterance of such vital news that her mother apparently neglected to inform her about.

'The kingdom of Konoha? They're ready for me? Wh-What?' Hinata pondered as her mind started to give in to anxiety and fear, which kept building as the minutes went by and prompted her face to display exceedingly distressing expressions.

Hinata snapped her head over to her mother as she casually spoke with Tokuma even with the knowledge that she would soon be sent away.

Hinata's lips trembled, "Mother! What is the meaning of this? Wh-Where are we going? What is going o-"

"Quiet!"

Hinata sobbed as she was shouted at for speaking out of turn and questioning authority, two behaviors that she had been painstakingly schooled as a young child to avoid. She was never supposed to speak out of turn or pose a question. She was solely expected to do as she was told, serving as a slave to anyone with authority over her.

It was absolutely awful.

Hinata snapped her head over to her handmaiden with a pout, watching full on as Kureani gave her a pout in return.

"Wh-What's going on, K-Kureani-san? What's going to happen to m-me?"

Hinata watched as a face of pure despair surfaced on the older woman's face, her head draping down so she could avoid her dear princess's gaze.

Kureani's heart ached due to the situation but knew she was not allowed to utter a word, to inform her princess of the truth.

The situation was entirely out of Kureani's hands.

So simply, she shook her head, sparing Hinata a frown, "Oh princess, everything will be alright, I promise. Everything you have been taught will insure you the comfort that you long for. There's no need to be frightened-"

Hinata shook her head wildly, denying her handmaiden's claims, "But how can I not be frightened when my mother is keeping secrets? How can I not be frightened when she is not being truthful as to why we are setting up the carriage or what lies in my near future?"

Hinata reached over to clutch Kureani's extended hand. Only then, did her pout deepen, "Please tell me, what's going on. Plea-"

"Well, it's all settled then! Goodness, I'm so excited!" Breaking through the bitter air, Hitomi's conversation with her servant, Tokuma, finally came to an end, leaving him to scurry back to the grand palace that stood towering behind the royal family.

Stomping quite heavily with heeled boots in the high patched snow, Hitomi made her way back to her daughter with a big grin now present on her pale face.

Her long midnight blue hair which was professionally braided into a spiral twist fishtail braid tossed back and forth upon her back as she walked, her bangs falling forth to cover her thrilled eyes to make way for the crystal crown she wore on top of her head. The long navy blue cape she wore also made itself known by the way it flowed swiftly behind her in the wind, draping away from her shoulders.

Hinata's heart was racing as she turned to face her mother as she approached, her eyes filled with tears, and her mind only focused on what she had just heard.

"Everything is well in place."

"The royal regime of Konoha is ready for Princess Hinata."

Her eyes teared up even more. But she quickly averted her gaze when her mother finally stepped in front of her, once more in an effort to intimidate her it would seem.

The Queen let out a sigh with a shimmer of her shoulders, "Oh Hinata darling, you have a very big day ahead of you."

"Wh-What?" Hinata croaked out.

Hitomi nodded, giving the clueless midnight blue haired woman a dark smirk, "Yes, darling, a big day indeed. I'm sure you were informed-"

Hinata shook her head quickly causing Hitomi's grin to drop.

Such an act of her mother's was a calculated one. Hinata knew that her mother has never informed her of today's events but as a way to make her look incompetent, she would instead throw her a question she would most certainly not know the answer to.

It was very diabolical.

Hitomi let out a deep groan of frustration before finally giving Hinata what she wanted, "Fine, I will go through the trouble of repeating myself, for the sake that you are aware of how crucial today is for you."

Hinata's eyes widened as she watched her mother step forward, further into her space so the two were meeting eye to eye.

Hinata was now besieged, trapped by the witch she calls mother, who was showering her with knowledge about the heinous deed she had committed behind her back.

Hitomi grinned, revealing her pearly whites, "You have legally turned eighteen on December 27, of this year, making you eligible for a prince to approach you in the hopes of marrying you. But you are aware of that already. For you have let me down continually for not being able to secure a single suitable husband." Hitomi clicked her tongue, "Many pursued and denied your hand in marriage leaving me in shame. I truly thought at a time you were never to be wed. But, I'm here to inform you that you've been chosen once more but this time, you've been picked by no ordinary candidate. Such a candidate is the ultimate one."

Hinata's eyes widened even more by her mother's words, her body falling numb as she listened to her explain current events.

Hitomi hummed, tilting her head a bit, "I honestly have no idea how you've done it, but you have succeeded in attracting the interest of the most affluent and powerful royal family in the entire nation. The Konoha empire, if you will. Along with their bachelor prince, such a kingdom is home to King Minato and Queen Kushina, who were the two that have handpicked you to potentially wed their son, Naruto Uzumaki."

Hitomi began to cheer in her spot, doing so in a rather uncharacteristic way which truly shocked Hinata beyond belief. She watched as her mother jumped up and down in the snow as if she was given a new pair of slippers. For the first time in her life, her mother exhibited happiness, albeit for a situation that Hinata did not find joyful.

Hinata stood trembling in her spot, not from the cold but because of fear.

She was well aware of what was expected of her when she aged eighteen. She knew one day she'd be sent away from the only home she'd ever known to marry a man she didn't love in order to ensure her kingdom's prosperity.

Hinata knew her job and was taught to live with that.

But Hinata was also familiar with the Konoha kingdom. She has read about their numerous victories over huge territories, including their successes in procuring raw materials that other kingdoms would kill to possess in order to make grand weapons, armor, and shields. She has read of their prosperity and how they've valiantly achieved it.

Hinata was very familiar with their victories and how much of a threat they were to other nations.

But what really instilled fear into Hinata was the prince of Konoha.

Naruto Uzumaki.

The austere Prince Naruto had a history of turning down over 300 princesses who sought to win his hand in marriage. No other prince could say that they've rejected the chance to marry over three hundred times. But Prince Naruto possessed that title and he wears it proudly.

Prince Naruto was a cold character who refuses to tolerate failure or mistakes.

The blonde had little regard for other people's feelings and would mock those he thought unfit to marry him or who he deemed incompetent.

When looking for a prince to marry, he was a very difficult choice to take into account.

The prince's comprehensive examination of the numerous princesses his parents had personally chosen in the hopes of locating the ideal one for him was actually pretty frightful.

Hinata felt that she was indeed frightened.

Genuinely, Hinata had no desire to meddle with someone like Naruto Uzumaki. She was terrified of having her very pride stripped away, of being mocked for who she was, and of losing the chance to uphold the honor of her people, so she never wished to go anywhere near him or on his land.

But now....

Hinata's heart began to treble in speed and now beat against her rib cage, the organ slamming against the corset that encased her chest. She was so shocked, she just couldn't believe that one of her suitors would be Naruto Uzumaki himself.

Hinata has had many suitors but all denied her for they were chased away by her knowledge, her perfection, by her independence and disinterest.

Men hated an intellectual, independent woman or rather a strong-minded princess and Hinata was surely one of those gals.

And of course, she could not simply bring herself to marry any other man than the one she already loves. She could not bear to turn her back from the man that truly has her heart.

So she chased suitors away and always denied the chance to marry.

But now it is different...

It didn't seem like she had any options of denying her fate anymore.

It seems like her time was up.

Hinata shook her head pleadingly at her mother, her lips trembling in fear, "No, mother, I cannot accept this. I-I can't meet Prince Naruto! I can't!-"

A loud scoff cut Hinata off and once more she was given a full-on death glare, one that freezed her bones. Hitomi snarled at her daughter, honestly taken aback by Hinata's behavior, "Yes, you will and you will do everything in your power to convince him that you are the best choice for him. Because this opportunity, Hinata, is an opportunity that you've been taught your whole life to face. This is the moment you've been waiting for. You can finally be put to good use and save us all."

"You cannot do this to me, mother-"

"Hinata! I implore you to put your concerns aside and think of your people; think of your father." Hitomi lowered her voice when she mentioned Hinata's father, doing so in order to pluck at her heart strings.

Hinata's eyes watered even more at the mention of her father who had in fact fallen ill at the start of this year.

Her father is cared for by nurses round-the-clock while he sleeps in a room deep within the Avalon palace, barely able to move while in a condition of comatose.

It was devastating to see him in such a state, to see her father clinging to life, barely responding.

It was utterly heartbreaking.

Hinata was outraged to witness her mother tossing her father's name back into her face in the hopes of forcing her to accept the dreadful fate that has been bestowed upon her. She was furious as she had witnessed what heinous lengths her mother would go in order to get her way and obtain what she wanted, even if it meant hurting her own daughter.

Hinata was furious.

Hinata seethed, glaring right back at her mother, "Do not use my father to tame me, mother. I have a sound judgment and I have every right to fear this match-"

"Hinata, your father is dying. Our riches are gradually dwindling, and our kingdom will likely fall."

Hinata's heart ached as her mother once more revealed a truth to her that she hardly ever thought could happen.

Hinata began to hyperventilate.

M-My father is dying?

Our very wealth is fading away?

The Avalonian kingdom will collapse?

It was a horror to hear such tragedies piled up all in one statement, all directed at her for the first time. Hinata was so shocked, she couldn't even respond fast enough. Even Kureani seemed speechless as she stood passively by, just listening to Hinata and Hitomi converse.

Kureani whimpered, before lowering her head away to hide the tears that clung to her eyelids, the bitter cold of the outdoors freezing her skin causing her cheeks to turn rosy red in no time.

Hinata's mouth opened and closed several times, revealing her speechless state which only left her mother to take over the conversation once more for her.

Now, Hitomi wore a face of pure dread as she gazed at her daughter, now revealing a pain she has been holding in for months now.

Hitomi shook her head, sighing deeply, "Being a princess, Hinata, necessitates making sacrifices for the greater good of your people. You must accept fates that you may loathe for the sake of those you love. You must face challenges that you may not believe you are capable of handling. Therefore, you must wed, daughter. Every single day, your father's hold on our kingdom wanes, leaving us helpless against those who wish to harm us. As a result, it is up to you, Hinata, to protect Avalon. Your kingdom, family, and people are counting on it." Hitomi shook her head once more, doing so with a mini pout on her face, one that revealed pain that she felt for herself as well as her daughter, "It is your sworn duty; a blessed curse to save us, my daughter."

Finally, her mother addressed Hinata now as her daughter, as someone she cared about and wanted the best for. She no longer spoke to her daughter emotionlessly, yelling orders at her as if she were a mere robot with no emotions.

Hinata has been reminded by Hitomi of the blessings and curses associated with being the heir to her land and the protector of her people.

Hinata has the ability to preserve her beloved people, ensure the happiness and prosperity of her land, and ensure the care of her father and mother, but in order to do so, she must undergo what many others are incapable of doing.

She must marry a man she does not love.

Hinata clasped her gloved hands tightly before her waist, squeezing her limbs firmly as she rationed through her thoughts, seeking to come up with an answer or some other solution to make everything better for herself and the people she cares deeply about.

'But how can I when there is no other solution available?' Hinata thought to herself in desperation, the walls around her closing in, driving her to come to a decision, a decision that grants her much pain.

Hinata felt trapped because of the decision she had to make. Such a decision felt like a test, one that would reveal how much she adored her nation and its people.

But deep down, she knew the decision she had to make.

There was only one true course.

Hinata's eyes have opened as a result of witnessing her mother's frozen heart thaw and taking in her passionate speech. Hinata has finally accepted the bitter truth that her feelings do not matter, and only those she oversees in her own kingdom does.

She has to do this.

She has to.

Hinata blew out a deep breath, allowing a cloud of white to slip from the cracks of her trembling lips to help relinquish the pain that weighed on her chest.

She was well aware that once she divulged her response, she would be unable to renounce it.

So Hinata took a few moments to compose herself by breathing in and out, and her mother patiently waited for her, allowing her daughter time to decide her next action.

But after a few seconds, Hinata realized her moment had now arrived, and she finally opened her mouth to accept her fate.

'I'm so sorry, Menma.' She thought to herself in pure sorrow, apologizing for making the decision to abandon her lover that resided right here in her land.

One single tear slid down her frigid skin to drop upon the patch of snow she stood grounded in.

Hinata picked her head up to nod at her mother, sniffing back her tears while she was at it, "Y-Yes, mother. You are right. I have been severely selfish and now that you have opened my eyes, I know what I must do."

Hinata sniffed again, watching as her mother's eyes widened in astonishment.

Hinata bit her lip briefly before speaking once more, "I will do it. With all of my power, I will convince Prince Naruto that I am the perfect choice for him. I will marry him for my people. I will marry him, for you and father, mother."

Finally, Hinata made her decision and in the end accepted her fate, which will undoubtedly spare her land from sorrow and devastation.

She has finally picked the choice that has made Hitomi happy. Incredibly happy.

Hitomi cheered in happiness after hearing her daughter's valiant decision and she pulled her hands forward to cup her daughter's shoulders.

Hitomi gave Hinata a gracious smile, one that was genuine, a smile Hinata has never seen her wear before.

"Oh you have saved us all! Thank you, my daughter. Thank you."

≪ °❈° ≫

Soon after Hinata made her final decision regarding her future, she was instructed to board the carriage that was prepared specifically for her and journey to Konoha to meet Prince Naruto.

She was not permitted to bid her kingdom farewell or take one final look around. No, not at all.

She was only told to focus her attention on the duty she has pledged to take on.

And for once, Hinata was rather content with that.

But she knew, accepting her decision to marry Naruto was only the first step in her difficult conquest to save her kingdom.

Convincing Naruto that she was worthy of being his wife was another arduous duty that was rapidly approaching, causing her great anxiety.

The six-hour journey from Avalon to Konoha involved Hinata battling with her jumbled thoughts to come up with strategies that would persuade Naruto to love her, be wooed by her, and consider her as the perfect choice.

It's going to be the challenge of a lifetime.

But Hinata was going to accomplish it.

One way, or another.

≪ °❈° ≫

Konoha.

Konoha was a vast village of tremendous warmth that spanned for kilometers, all accompanied by vibrant colors.

Such a village, Hinata saw upon arriving, functioned a lot differently than her home back in Avalon.

There was no snow, ice, freezing temperatures, or the stench of devastation that she was used to.

Konoha was overseen by a bright, cheerful sun that shone down on the village's hard working residents. The buildings for Konoha's people were well constructed of beautiful wood that was both strong and durable.

Konoha residents were allowed to eat and drink anything they wanted from the many shops and eateries nearby. The residents of the community were even able to support themselves by opening stores of their own to sell goods to benefit their neighbors and make money to support their own families.

Hinata could hear the many salespeople and clerks shout out their wares down the vibrant streets of Konoha while standing before many food stands where items she had never seen before were on display for purchase.

Everyone seemed so happy, so content, so lively, a great contrast to her own people back at home.

All of Avalon's inhabitants, Hinata in particular, were greatly shocked as they proceeded through Konoha's streets and were led by fellow Konoha guards to the palace where the royal family of the kingdom were present.

King Minato, Queen Kushina and Prince Naruto.

The carriage Hinata was riding in rolled and rolled until it came to a stop in front of a big gate, just in front of a palace that appeared to be made of pure gold and reached great lengths through the clear blue sky.

It was such a beautiful sight, Hinata was quite excited to exit her carriage to witness more of it with her lavender eyes.

A servant of hers took hold of her hand and helped her out of the carriage, not without helping her discard her gloves and cape due to the warm weather. She was even given different slippers to wear, discarding her soaking wet boots.

Hinata's new slippers were composed of lavender sapphire diamonds that twinkled in the summer sun. Such slippers fit her feet well, adding a finishing touch to her beautiful ensemble.

Her entire outfit was now visible to everyone around her, and as a result, she received numerous compliments from her servants and even her handmaiden, Kureani, who had volunteered to accompany her in her journey to Konoha.

Kureani stepped out of the carriage to give Hinata a pat on the shoulder and a loving smile. She admired Hinata as if she were her own, and she was proud to see her growing into the beautiful young woman she foreseed she would be.

Kureani's smile grew the more she looked down at Hinata, many memories of her younger self flashing within her brain.

Kureani could not help but indulge in the memories of the young Hinata she was tasked to help and serve.

Kureani can see for herself that Hinata has come a long way from the young girl she once was.

The black-haired handmaiden took in Hinata as she stood beautifully dressed, her long midnight blue hair currently bound up in a gorgeous braided-updo to lay against the nape of her neck. Two strands of her hair were separated from the rest so that they could cascade down both sides of her head. Such a hairstyle made room for a gleaming purple rhinestone tiara to set itself on the top of her head, which steadily twinkled in the sunlight.

Large purple rhinestones were worn as a necklace and earrings around her neck and in her ears.

Hinata certainly looked like a twinkling star, a beautiful young woman that Kurenai regarded as a hero.

Kureani couldn't help it but she moved forth to cup Hinata's shoulders, giggling to see Hinata smiling joyously up at her as well. The black haired woman had to bite her lip, to contain herself from crying, "Oh Hinata-sama, you look absolutely stunning. You look like the intelligent, courageous and loving woman I knew you would grow up to be. I am proud of you, so proud of how far you've come. And there's no doubt in my mind that you will successfully win the heart of Naruto Uzumaki."

"O-Oh K-Kureani-san." Hinata wept softly, bringing her hands up to brush against her handmaiden's extended arms. The two cherished the affection they provided each other through their touch, close contact, and passionate words.

Hinata was grateful to have Kureani in her life, a true mother figure who has supported her every step of the way.

Kureani has shaped her into the independent young woman she is now, a woman who is taught to stand up for herself, to be herself despite the world's expectations. She taught her to fight even when the odds are compressed against her and to keep a heart of gold, a heart that can guide her through her many difficulties and provide love to those around her.

Kurenai has taught her a lot and Hinata was eternally grateful.

Hinata pulled her forehead forward to place it upon Kureani's, to grant her more love and affection, "Th-Thank you, Kureani-san. Thank you so, so much, for everything. I am so grateful to have you here at this very moment. I am so grateful to have you in my life."

Kureani whimpered softly, her heart pinning at the sound of her princess thanking her for the selfless deeds she's constantly performing for the past eighteen years.

Kureani nodded, "Oh, my princess, you do not have to thank me cause if given the chance, I will do it all over again. I will remain by your side always, no matter how life unfolds from here on out. Kureani shook her head, a powerful shake of the head, "Never forget that, my princess."

Hinata couldn't stop the tears from falling down her cheeks, threatening to ruin her freshly applied makeup, her lavender eyes expressing immense joy as she peered into the red eyes of her dear handmaiden, her second mother.

Kureani cooed before gently patting away her tears, doing so with a gentle press of her fingers, "Aww, don't cry, love. You'll ruin your lovely makeup." Kureani chastised playfully as she fixed Hinata's appearance once more, doing so with no hesitation whatsoever.

But that very action, caused Hinata to suddenly wrap her arms around the woman before pulling her in a tight embrace which surprised Kureani greatly.

"Wh-Whoa-"

"Oh thank you, K-Kureani-san! Thank you so much!!"

Kureani gasped as she was given a hug by her princess, a gesture she rarely receives from her. The black haired woman never thought she was even allowed to hug her dear princess but now...

Kureani found her arms involuntarily wrapping around her where she squeezed tightly, accepting the embrace Hinata initiated.

The beautiful handmaiden smiled, rubbing Hinata's backside softly, just over the back straps that kept her dress tied, "Anything for you, my princess. Anything for you."

The hug carried on for some time as the two just relished in the other's love and company.

But sadly, their hug was brought to an end when the air was suddenly filled with a feminine voice, a voice that revealed impatience.

"Good kami! What's the hold up?"

In response to hearing her mother's bark, Hinata quickly pulled her arms away from Kureani, to end their loving hug. But she did not leave Kureani's side without giving her a gracious smile.

Kureani bowed in return.

After that, Hinata ran into her mother again as she was being assisted by one of their servants to exit the carriage instead to enter further into the warm air of Konoha.

Hitomi sighed in bliss, relishing in the warmth around her, "Oh yes, I can surely grow accustomed to this fine weather."

"Mother." Hinata called as she rounded the carriage to step before her, acknowledging her presence.

Hitomi stands proudly, revealing all of her magnificence, now without the presence of her a cloak, gloves, and boots, but now sparkly heels and a fluffy blue fan that she used to fan herself.

Hitomi gave Hinata a faint smile before nodding at her daughter who stepped before her, doing so while gracing her with a bow.

Hitomi approved by nodding, giving her daughter's right shoulder a pat with her fan, "Hello, my daughter."

"Hello, mother."

"Are you ready for what lies ahead, Hinata? The King, Queen and the Prince of Konoha are waiting for you, just beyond those gates. So now, I only wish to hear any concerns you may have."

Hinata shook her head in response to her mother's inquiry while smiling as she heard her mother entreat about her
worries. She was really pleased with her mother's innovative behavior, "I possess no worries, mother. I am quite confident in my skills and in my plan to convince Naruto that I am just what he's been looking for."

"Good girl. That's what I like to hear!" Impressed, Hitomi praised her daughter loud and proud before checking around for guards who stood around like statues, keeping close to the carriage as Hitomi and Hinata conversed.

Hitomi hummed at the sight of her guards around before turning her gaze to the other carriage that was parked just a few feet from where the Queen and the Princess of Avalon stood, a carriage that was decorated with a red foundation, accompanied with gold tapestry.

A man emerged slowly but certainly from the scarlet wagon, displaying the all-white tux he spotted and white mask that covered his face all but his left eye. The visitor had gray hair that was fairly spiky at the top and smooth at the ends, but overall the man looked pretty sartorial and surely proclaimed that he was directly employed by the Konoha royal family.

He strided along the concrete path with two guards in red and white accompanying him on both sides, all the while straightening the cuffs of his tux.

Hitomi and Hinata turned their attention to the newcomer and politely bowed, lowering their bodies a bit to do so.

The gray haired male nodded, sending the two beautiful women an eye smile. But he gave his attention to Hitomi first, "Queen Hitomi Hyuga of Avalon." He turned to address Hinata and also blessed her with an eye smile with his one visible eye, "Princess Hinata Hyuga of Avalon. I cordially invite you both to accompany me on your voyage to meet the regal King, Queen, and Prince of Konoha, who have been excitedly anticipating your arrival." Kakashi gave a subtle bow of his head, to show his respect for the two royal members.

He stood back up straight to then place one gloved hand on his chest, "My name is Kakashi Hatake but you can call me Kakashi, I do not mind. I am both the trusted advisor and bodyguard of Prince Naruto himself."

"Oh, well hello, Kakashi-kun!" Hinata beamed up in joy, unable to resist acknowledging the kind male before her. She even gave him a sincere smile, "It is truly a pleasure to meet you, Kakashi-kun. It's also an honor to be here in Konoha. It's absolutely gorgeous here."

Kakashi's lips could be seen stretching apart positively underneath his mask due to Hinata's kind words, "I really appreciate your compliments, princess. But I must inform you that we are delighted to have each and every one of you here as well. We all are quite aware of the length and haste of your journey to get here, as well as the fact you all are probably famished by now. So in exchange, we will provide a feast for everyone while also providing Princess Hinata with a more privileged meal with Naruto Uzumaki himself. Everything we provide is free for you to eat, and there is plenty."

Hinata couldn't help the wave of anxiety that swept over her by receiving the news that she was going to be involved in an intimate dinner with Naruto Uzumaki. It was rather nerve wracking but she made no efforts to let such emotions show.

She only nodded graciously, "I do well appreciate that, Kakashi-kun. I am looking forward to dining with Prince Naruto immensely."

"I am certainly glad to hear that." Kakashi responded happily while giving Hinata a nod before turning to nod at Hitomi who gave him a brief nod of approval back.

Afterward, the gray haired male pulled his hand forth to guide the two ladies onward, presenting them to the opening gates and then the path that must be walked to get to their attended designation.

Once again, the two ladies were given an eye smile by the masked man and a beckoning signal with his head, "Well then, shall we get going?"

≪ °❈° ≫

The visitors of Konoha, the members of Avalon, were authorized to trot up a trail that spanned across the countryside that led to their destination, long passing through the enormous gates that bordered the Konoha palace.

The trek was long, but it offered Hinata one more chance to gather her thoughts and calm her anxiety. She desperately needed the extra time.

Because as soon as she reached the top of the path that headed to Konoha's palace, she was met by three imposing figures she had never expected to see with her own two eyes...

As the members of Avalon neared the main doors of the palace of Konoha, servants in red and gold were spotted lined on both sides of the path, standing there with golden trumpets in hand.

And as soon as the Avalon members arrived within sight, Konoha servants lifted their instruments skyward, rooting the mouth pieces of the trumpets directly onto their lips, and only then did they begin to play, sounding their trumpets to create a joyous music that acknowledged Konoha's guests.

Hinata's breath caught in her throat as she feasted her eyes on the royal family of Konoha who stood proudly before the front doors of their home, standing in waiting for her and only for her.

Hinata's attention was grabbed by King Minato's presence first who stood in the middle of his two family members while wearing an outfit fit for a king.

King Minato, the ruler of Konoha and its successfully conquered land, possessed long spiky hair and tanned skin, as well as a height that towered over both Hitomi and Hinata, despite the fact that the two were wearing heels.

King Minato donned a big, spherical crown on the pinnacle of his head, a crown composed of red, white, and gold embellishments.

Further down, the King of Konoha was seen wearing a grand scarlet suit that descended down his frame and covered his entire torso. His outfit was covered in gold medals, which were affixed along his blazing suit. A long gold tassel was strung around his neck, augmenting the gold jewelry he had around his physique, which also hung low down his chest, complementing his torso with the extravagant colors of red and gold.

His body was covered with gold sashes, two in fact. There was a gold belt that ran vertically along his waist and another that ran horizontally along his torso, just beneath all the heavy jewelry he wore and the medals he had earned for himself.

He was dressed down in plain tan slacks and towering black boots that slipped up to his knees.

Lastly, a gigantic red cape of various woven fabrics hung over his entire torso, gliding down his figure like excellent wine, to complete his overall look. The blonde sovereign stood tall in front of Hinata's people, clutching an all-gold cane which he rested on the ground before him. But Hinata was well aware that such a cane was simply for show.

After all, kings were all ritzy.

Hinata's gaze traveled the line of the Konoha family's structure until halting in the face of the lovely Queen of Konoha, a being of exquisite perfection with glowing red hair and the possession of a flawless skin complexion; a fair, flawless skin tone with a creamy texture.

The red-haired woman who went by the name Kushina Uzumaki took a bold stance, raising her chest in an act of unabashed bravado. Her posture was so breathtakingly straight that it appeared as though a thread was pulling her torso aloft to keep her remaining upright.

To match her husband, Queen Kushina wore a crimson and gold gown that glided down her hourglass body and highlighted every curve she possessed.

Her striking dress' body was entirely covered in gold sequins. There were even gold sequins that slipped up her frame, covering her entire bosom area and slipping around her neck, giving the illusion that she was wearing a gold necklace.

Her outfit featured an oval cut in the center of her bosom, revealing heavy cleavage, which was a daring choice that conveyed a lot about her personality.

Queen Kushina also donned a long red cape that attached to the shoulders of her gown and hung behind her, with gold sequins adorning the edges of her red cape. The cape fell to her feet and spilled on the ground she was standing behind, but she didn't appear to mind.

Hinata's gaze trailed back up the beautiful redhead woman, only to discover that she was wearing dangling gold earrings within her ears and wore her red hair in a half updo along with chunky curls.

Her hair looked absolutely stunning, curled and set down her back, embraced by a tiara made entirely of gold gemstones.

Certainly, Queen Kushina had the appearance of an angel. She was stunning beyond belief.

Reminded that she was in fact standing before such perfection and divinity, Hinata's mind was undoubtedly blown.

She was overcome with emotion.

Inhaling deeply, Hinata began to make a gradual but determined turn to her right, gathering the fortitude to do so first to look at the final individual who was currently standing in front of her.

Such an individual was the primary reason she was even present in Konoha, an individual of major importance and inspired considerable terror in her.

Such an individual who she was arranged to potentially marry.

That is, Naruto Uzumaki.

The man in question stood proudly alongside his father, his blue eyes transfixed on Hinata's definitive form before him. His gaze never wavered, never vacillated in its intensity.

Possessing a handsome face that could woo any woman that lies eyes on it, Naruto Uzumaki was a man that posessed blonde spiky that contained blue eyes and certainly, he knew how to use them.

He either sent death glares with those blue eyes to show contempt or squinted them slightly to seduce. Hinata was relieved to discover that the blonde was not glaring at her at the moment, but rather posing a look of deep inquiry.

Prince Naruto appeared to be fascinated by her very being, so much so that he couldn't take his gaze away from her.

Hinata appeared to be fixated on him as well as their gazes ultimately connected.

In stark contrast to her own fair skin, her prospective spouse sported tanned skin, and Hinata was aware that this was a result of the pleasant climate in his native country. He possessed a gorgeous skin complexion that was sort of light bronze in color-not too overpowering or unappealing. His skin was perfect.

A physical characteristic of his that immediately stood out to her was the three whicker marks he bore on his cheeks, one on each side of his face. As soon as she saw the prince of Konoha's unusual birth marks on his cheeks-a characteristic that is uncommon among humans-she was overcome with a wave of nostalgia.

Hinata knew only one person that contained such marks and that so happened to be her lover.

Her Menma.

She was only driven at the moment by witnessing Prince Naruto, who also bore whisker birthmarks, to discover that such marks were actually rather common and not an uncommon characteristic as she had previously believed.

A sophisticated Prince harboring a defect that marred his immaculate skin was an unusual detail but an appealing trait.

Hinata, however, didn't think about the issue any further.

Instead, she took the time to inspect Prince Naruto's actual attire.

Hinata saw for herself that the royal blonde wore an elegant suit of white and red with gold accessories, along with a crown made entirely of gold which sat snug on his head of blonde locks.

The base color of his suit was white and draped down to cover his entire torso, allowing a stunning gold embroidered design to proudly display itself along the front of his suit, just over his chest.

His white clothing was long sleeved and featured gold swirl embroidery around both sides, just before his red sleeves.

He had a scarlet sash stretched vertically over his chest and another red sash fastened horizontally around his torso.

Gold epaulets designated their placements on the blonde's broad shoulders; this detail was added to his clothing solely for fashion purposes. The blonde prince clearly desired a more traditional appearance, which was made even more terrifying by the gold embroidered into his attire.

His slacks were simply white, with a single red stripe running down the side, only to drape down to join with white dressy shoes to complete his look.

Overall, Prince Naruto resembled Hinata's vision of him.

Handsome. Magnificent. Perfect.

He practically shone like the very gold he wore as he stood bodly right alongside his parents, who truly lived up to their grand name given their magnificent appearances, their extravagant clothing choice, the presence of pure gold upon their very beings and the boldness that the expressed as they stood and revealed themselves to the people of Avalon.

Hinata gained a faint smile on her gorgeous face at the sight of them.

The people of Avalon enjoyed the brief tune of the trumpets blown by the grand servants of Konoha to present their precious King, Queen, and Prince.

It was quite the show. The people of Avalon were not familiar with such lively music and enjoyed every note that was played by each of Konoha's servants.

After it was all done, such trumpets were removed from the lips of Konoha servants and silence replaced it, giving Kakashi, Naruto's trusted advisor, room to walk forward before the Avolian people.

"Welcome, Kingdom of Avalon. We, who represent the face of Konoha, are very pleased to have you here."

Kakashi took a step back to throw his hands forward, aiming such limbs back to present his rulers.

"The people in front of you right now are the ones who keep Konoha's kingdom alive and well; they are the very soul of Konoha."

Kakashi pointed back at Hinata, presenting her as well now with a very serious approach, "Today, Hinata Hyuga, Princess of Avalon, you stand before King Minato, Queen Kushina and Prince Naruto himself to be judged of your very worth. Many princesses have come and taken a stand just where you are but failed to please our dear Prince, therefore was denied the right to marry him and be accepted into our regime."

Kakashi nodded his head at Hinata, further focusing his attention on her and only her, disregarding her people who stood all around her, "Princess Hinata, today you will reveal everything that was taught to you, reveal your very value to Prince Naruto, and seek to persuade him that you are exactly what he is looking for, that you could perform as his soon-to-be-wife." The gray-haired man gave a modest bow toward Hinata before ultimately allowing her to take center stage before drifting to the right, out of sight, "The ball is in your court, princess."

As Hinata listened to a speech filled with utmost devotion, dedication, and sincerity, she could feel her heart hammering in her chest. Because her test was the next scheduled event, she knew smiles and laughter were not permitted to be exchanged.

Hinata was entering the test of her lifetime and she had to pass every single duty that was demanded of her, even if she was unsure of what such duties were, or what exactly pleases Naruto.

She only had to trust her heart and strive to touch his.

Hinata's smile grew as she moved forward to bow to the Konoha royal family, bending her legs slightly, tugging at the sides of her dress slightly, and lowering her head.

A smirk crept on Naruto's face, which only subconsciously grew bigger and bigger as he kept his eye on Hinata.

Surely, he was quite pleased with what he saw already.

How can he not be?

He stood beside his family while gazing at the lavender princess curtsy quite cutely before them, presenting her elegance and her boldness too for she was the first in her entire kingdom to approach them and seek to reveal her voice to them.

Hinata lifted her head to smile graciously, "King Minato." Hinata acknowledged proudly, nodding her head at the powerful blonde who gave her a pleasant smile back, one that made her further welcomed here in his home.

She turned to Kushina to do the same, giving the red haired woman to her far right a look of appreciation, "Queen Kushina and..."

Hinata fought back the croak that summoned in her throat as she finally addressed the powerful man before her, the one that she would soon marry, if she were to pass his test.

Hinata knew such a test was already in motion for she felt the blue eyes of the Konoha Prince bore holes into her head, silently watching her every move and taking notes, she assumed.

It was terrifying to have someone watching your every move to see not just what you do but how you do it and strive to comprehend why such action was taken, to understand that individual solely through observation.

It was truly affecting Hinata.

She breathed deeply, cheeks hot, her chest heaving lightly as she now connected her lavender eyes with ocean of blue, the culprit of such eyes keeping themselves rooted on her without falter.

Hinata sent a smile at Naruto the best she could, even through the wave of fear that rushed over her at the sight of his gaze and the feel of his presence, "Prince N-Naruto."

Hinata tried so hard to hold back a grimace as she allowed herself to stutter his very name, revealing reluctance and even fear in approaching someone of such high superiority as himself.

Hinata undoubtedly felt foolish and that she was making a costly mistake.

She soon recovered and continued her speech, introducing herself and expressing her gratitude to the King and Queen for choosing her as well as to Prince Naruto for giving her the time to fully express herself.

She smiled once more, allowing the gesture to illuminate her face and, in turn, the worlds of Konoha's royal family, "I am truly, truly grateful to be handpicked by you, King and Queen of Konoha. I thank you for allowing me to stand here today and experience your beautiful lands. I must thank you from the bottom of my heart for gracing me with this magnificent opportunity. I promise, I will not bring dishonor or disappointment within your home."

Hinata let out a soft breath after she completed her speech, a speech she was quite proud of. She was able to show her full gratitude while gazing into the eyes of all three individuals before her. She kept her composure. She didn't stutter, she didn't cower away and she didn't lose her smile.

She successfully conveyed the emotions she genuinely felt and presented them to the Konoha family who seemed quite pleased with her opening speech.

Even Hitomi, who was standing a few steps behind her daughter, smiled as she tried to remain cool in the hot weather she was hardly used to by constantly fanning her face with her fan.

She was very proud of Hinata up to this point for having the fortitude to stand up and establish her worth to the powerful Konoha family without her aid or input.

Hitomi couldn't help but beam with pride. She was so ecstatic to see that everything was going as Hinata had promised that she was practically grinning like a fool. She kept her blue fan over her lips to conceal the exuberant smile she was making.

Only then, she watched the scene play out before her, watching how the Konoha family received Hinata's speech.

While displaying a very delighted grin on his face, King Minato nodded in agreement toward the princess of Avalon. All the gold rings on his fingers were visible as he securely gripped the top of his cane.

Hinata watched as his smile soon turned into a grin, "Ahh, now aren't you quite interesting, Princess Hinata. As Kakashi has acknowledged, many princesses have stood exactly where you currently stand, displaying the same boldness you have now, yet all turned out quite disappointing in my son's eyes.." Minato nodded towards the stern blonde beside him who had not once kept his eyes off of Hinata's being, his blue eyes tracking her every move, every expression and every emotion she conveyed.

He even was able to pick up the emotions she was trying to hold back.

The feeling of fear is one of those emotions.

The midnight blue haired beauty reeked of fear which quite intrigued the blonde the most.

Prince Naruto cleared his throat, giving his head a nod which caused his spiky hair to sway, just over his blue eyes which only created a more enticing look for him.

Hinata couldn't hold back the blush that stained her cheeks at the sight of the handsome specimen before her.

'Oh dear kami.' She thought blissfully to herself.

Prince Naruto smirked, "My dear Hinata Hyuga, I am quite eager to sit and dine before you and discover your very attributes and fervently celebrate them. But I must disclose that I am not easily pleased. I have been denied the worthiness that I seek repeatedly so I wish that you do not disappoint me, love." He conveyed with icy blue eyes, sending her a look of warning which caused the princess of Avalon to momentarily freeze up.

But she recovered by bowing, shaking her head, "Oh, I wish nothing more than to please you, Prince Naruto. I am quite sorry to hear your passed troubles but I am here to reassure you that I wish to give you none at all. You have my word, my prince."

"Hmm." Naruto only hummed, a smirk of satisfaction present on his tan, whiskered face.

He gazed at Hinata once more, allowing his eyes to run up and down her dressed body from where she stood in front of him.

He leaned over to his father and snickered, "She's quite dainty, wouldn't you agree, Father? Mother?" Naruto cracked a smirk, holding in a laugh, "Hah adorable, I would describe her. She seemingly reminds me, mother, of the porcelain dolls you like to keep as souvenirs within the palace. Ahh, most intriguing." Naruto commented proudly as if Hinata was not in fact standing before him.

Hinata bit her lip nervously once she saw Kushina let out a soft giggle at Naruto's rather peculiar statement.

Minato simply nodded at his son, no further expression made to indicate that he felt intrigued by his son's comment.

But it really didn't seem as Naruto minded.

Kushina smiled, her scarlet lips spreading far apart, "Indeed, I concur with my son. Hinata dear, you have certainly made an impression, darling, my son compliments you." The red haired queen acknowledges with another giggle, complimenting Hinata as well which forced her to remain calm.

She surely wanted to fangirl in that very moment, to express loads of joy for making a grand impression on the Konoha family.

But Hinata only settled on smiling, a smile that lit up her face joyously, "Thank you all. I truly appreciate your compliments and surely wish to continue appeasing you."

"Oh, she's bold too! Quite the combination!" Naruto pointed out as well with a laugh, causing his mother to burst into a fit of giggles, laughing at her son's teasing outbursts which only summoned blushes on Hinata's cheeks.

She didn't know why Prince Naruto was teasing her so much.

Did he do such a thing to the other princesses?

Did he find them just as amusing as he did her?

She was quite confused by Prince Naruto's rather mischievous mood. She didn't know if it meant she was passing his test or failing it miserably.

She wanted to read in between the lines, to spot details that were not simply shown or conveyed in words. The Konoha family could just as well feed her lies with their many compliments to trick her, to mislead her for she knew they were also testing her for how wise or gullible she truly was.

Hinata had to be careful.

The midnight blue haired princess smiled faintly as she watched Naruto and Kushina share a few laughs before she was given their attention again, more specifically Naruto's who suddenly squinted his eyes at her, doing so to take in the appearance of her face more clearly.

He furrowed his brows, "Say, you look quite familiar, princess. Your face looks..." Naruto's voice quieted as he thoroughly inspected Hinata, taking in her delicate facial features, porcelain complexion, the distinctive lavender eyes that only the Hyuga's possessed in Avalon, her glistening smile, and her lovely midnight blue hair.

Hinata's eyebrows furrowed at the new approach Naruto was taking by examining her. He seemed to be trying to connect her with a memory he possessed, one that Hinata was sure did not exist.

She was sure she had never seen Prince Naruto in her entire life. She had never met him or spoken with him, so his remarks struck her as strange.

Hinata smiled faintly, giving her head a shake, "No, that cannot be, my prince. You must have me confused with someone else."

"No, no, no." Naruto voiced, unsatisfied with her answer. He seemed to truly believe that she was in fact familiar to him.

He pulled one finger up to point at her, his odd behavior grabbing the attention of many of Hinata's people who furrowed their brows in confusion.

Naruto clicked his tongue, "I'm quite certain I've seen your face before, recently in fact-"

"Now, now, my son, don't go making our new guest uncomfortable. If she gives you a sense of familiarity, then that's a good sign!" Minato chimed in, finally bringing to life more of his voice which was quite soft but possessed much vitality. His voice was quite pleasant to listen to.

He turned to his son and gave him a smile of reassurance, his long cape swaying behind him but doing so in a slow stride, "Let us take a step further and invite dear Hinata into our home, prepare her a feast, and only after that can you two engage in a conversation or two in order to better understand one another. Only then, my son, will you be able to assess Hinata more fully and reestablish contact with the memory that has forsaken your mind."

"Yes. Yes, you are right, father. Food, wine and conversation with Princess Hinata here would do nicely to connect me back with the memory that has seemed to slip my mind. Only then, the questions of this familiarity I feel will be presented to me." Naruto voiced with a nod.

"Yes, atta boy! Now what do you say to that, Princess Hinata and Queen Hitomi?" Minato finally pulled his attention back to his guests, partakaly on both Hinata and Hitomi who gave the blonde haired king nods of ecstatic approval.

Princess Hinata bowed her head, to further show the king of Konoha her approval, "Yes, dinner and conversation with the prince sounds lovely. I truly thank you for giving me this chance."

"I wish to take this time to thank you as well, King Minato and Queen Kushina. " Queen Hitomi chimed in with a subtle bow, her dress swaying a bit as she moved. She watched as King Minato pulled his gaze from her daughter onto her all the while presenting a wider smile.

Hitomi smiled back, "I assure you that my daughter won't disappoint you. She's of fine porcelain, perfect and true, let me tell you, and she will make us all proud."

Minato let off a chuckle at the eagerness in Hitomi's speech, a speech that revealed much of her faith in Hinata who weighed heavy on her shoulders but she tried her hardest to uphold it all.

She must.

Queen Hitomi watched as she was given a nod from Minato from afar, "The outcome of such a match, then, is something I am undoubtedly anticipating. I really hope that today marks the end of our princess pursuit."

"Indeed." Kushina butted in, expressing her exhaustion of hunting for numerous princesses on Naruto's behalf.

Minato hummed and used the brief time to run his blue eyes over the handful of individuals dressed in blue before him, including Hinata.

Minato's grin widened, his hands bringing his cane down to tap the ground below him, letting off a thud throughout the cheerful air, "Well then, let's get this show on the road!"

≪ °❈° ≫

Hinata was finally brought past the main entrances and into the gorgeous limits of the Konoha palace after a polite introduction with the Konoha family.

She was immediately struck by how enormous the palace was, with ceilings that reached as high as the sky outside. The walls were white with crimson and gold embroidery, giving the idea that the Konoha family's preferred colors were red, gold, and white.

The interior of the vast Konoha palace was simply stunning. Being able to experience it firsthand rather than only seeing it in images in a picture book was unquestionably a blessing in Hinata's eyes.

She found her mouth gaping the entire while as she was escorted by Konoha guards to her future destination.

On the way, she observed another spectacular aspect of Konoha's royal palace: the very floor she walked on.

The floor was so ornate that it could display the reflection of anyone who gazed at it. The floor of Konoha's palace was slick, smooth, and shimmered like porcelain glass, which not just impressed Hinata but all of Avalon members.

Such translucent floors were a departure from their regular black and white (checkered tiled) floors in Avalon. The entire atmosphere of the inside of Konoha's palace was quite new to all of the Avalonian guests and so they were very intrigued by all the new aspects that surrounded them.

Hinata was eventually separated from the residents of her kingdom who were led to another diner hall for a feast, while she was ushered into a more exclusive diner hall that seemed to stretch on for miles and miles.

The walls were covered in the same interior, featuring gold, red and white tapestry designs that looked quite enticing to the eye. The room was filled with tall windows which flooded in light from every angle, granting visitors the ability to see with no problem.

Hinata witnessed first hand that the diner hall featured a long, wooden table that only possessed seats at both ends, the ends that were in fact facing one another. A chandelier made of 24 karat gold hung over the grand table, which was a magnificent sight to behold.

Such a table was laden with dishes of delectable fragrances, aromas that made her mouth water. Many dishes that were present before her gave her a sense of unfamiliarity because she was not permitted to eat specific amounts of food, specifically cuisines that currently lied before her.

She was only given the food that her mother thought she should eat, which was simple food that wouldn't cause anyone to fuss over.

Therefore, Hinata was overjoyed to be given access to such a beautiful feast with a limitless supply of foods of all kinds that she could try.

But she was quite hesitant to seat herself and in fact eat the divine food in front of her. She only seated herself once she was given permission from Prince Naruto who was quick to accompany her.

With his permission, Hinata eagerly took the available seat for herself and began to eat, to finally fill her belly up after her long travels.

Prince Naruto seated himself right after the princess of Avalon sat down for their formal dinner. His body glided across the floor smoothly, keeping a steady stride as he took the chair on the other side of the table, where he could get a full view of Hinata from over all the dishes, drinks and dessert.

Prince Naruto watched Hinata closely from afar, settling in keeping very still as he watched the porcelain woman marvel at the many dishes before her, intimating that of a child in a candy store.

There was a grand twinkle in her eye as she selected a bowl of Chahan, a stir fried rice dish that was accompanied with eggs, vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, onions, garlic along with tofu, prawns, and a scrambled egg. The dish was also heavily garnished with a little shredded shiso (Japanese basil).

Prince Naruto held his hands folded just before his face as he further watched the midnight blue haired woman pick a few onigiri from a bowl before her, doing so with a pair of chopsticks which the blonde took note that she used quite well.

Following the selection and placement of Hinata's chosen dishes to her main plate, Naruto observed the young princess begin to search the table for a beverage of her liking, but was dismayed when she saw only red wine available.

She grimaced, "U-Um, Prince Naruto?"

"Yes, princess?"

Hinata's lavender eyes darted from the wine glasses on the table to the blonde staring her down from afar. She gripped the chopsticks in her possession tightly, doing so to settle her nerves, "I-I'm sorry, b-but I wish to inform you that I am not much of a drinker-"

"What beverage would you rather prefer?" Naruto was quick to provide Hinata the choice to choose another beverage, one for her liking so she could enjoy her meal.

Hinata, however, found his behavior to be quite odd but she simply answered his question, bringing to light what she actually wanted. She placed her chopsticks down on her plate before speaking, "I would like ginger tea, please." Hinata voiced with a smile on her face which also pulled one on Naruto's.

He gave her a nod before turning his attention over to one of his servants who were standing by the table, standing perfectly still so as to not bring any attention to himself.

But at the sight of his prince's beckoning, the older male broke out of the stance he's been keeping for a bit too rushed to Naruto's aid.

Naruto nodded his head over at Hinata, tilting it briefly to the far end of the table he sat at, "Give this fine young lady a tall glass of ginger tea, would ya? And be sure to keep her beverage filled throughout the entire dinner. That would be most delightful."

Hinata's mouth dropped a bit as she witnessed Naruto selflessly went out of his way to make her time here within his home quite marvelous.

It was a sight that rather contradicted the version of Naruto, Hinata has painted inside of her head. The Naruto that she has read about wouldn't do any of the things he's done today.

Laugh.

Joke.

Tease.

Engage in selfless acts.

The prince before her was certainly not who she expected at all.

Seeing the prince's newfound approach however, made Hinata relax just a tad and to show her thanks, she gave Naruto a mini bow within her seat, lowering her head briefly, "Thank you my prince. I sincerely appreciate your gracious hospitality."

Naruto let off a chuckle from afar, his voice bouncing off of the walls which was a great contrast to Hinata's soft voice.

"Oh, you are welcome. You are here, yes, for great importance. You've traveled quite the distance, princess, so the least I can do is treat you well as you remain here in my care or rather in my family's care, anyway. It's the least I can do." Naruto's kind words were followed by a quick wink which managed to make the princess blush and swoon, her gaze snapping away from the blonde to deal with her emotions.

Hinata bit down on her lip to contain the giddy smile that was on her face.

'Oh my gosh! The Prince of Konoha just winked at me!' Hinata thought in great excitement. Such an excitement was building in her chest, growing and growing the more she was graced by the prince's handsomeness and selfless acts.

She was growing a tad bit overwhelmed.

So she simply uttered another "thank you" but such an expression of gratitude was spoken quite meekly which earned her a laugh from Naruto.

Hinata decided to begin eating her food to calm her nerves. She voiced her grace before taking her chopsticks to carry them over to the bowl of rice before her, diving the steel utensils into her meal to grasp a bit of her food.

Elegantly, Hinata pulled her arm back through the air to lightly place the small patch of rice and vegetables on the top of her tongue where her mouth closed afterward.

It was quiet for a while as Hinata took the time to eat, to fill her belly just as she needed to. The servant from before was quick to bring the beverage she desired, leaving her with all the contents that brought her satisfaction, contents that brought a wide smile to her beautiful face.

No fear at all was present within her heart as she dined before Prince Naruto, doing so by experiencing scrumptious foods of all seasonings and flavors, foods that she wasn't allowed to eat back at her homeland. Such food was no match to Hinata's appetite and therefore was devoured with soft hums of joy.

Naruto also took the time to serve himself to the fine food that littered the table before him. Due to the fact he was only mildly famished at the moment, he simply took a bowl of Thai pork noodles to eat along with a glass of wine to accompany his chosen meal.

Nothing but the clang of plates and chopsticks, the smacking of food and hums of delight filled Konoha's grand diner room amongst the two royal members.

Naruto took a few scoops of his noodle bowl before he gave his attention back to the princess before him, a sight that he cannot keep his eyes off of.

Out of all the princesses that have crossed his path, he has never been so entranced by the one that sat in front of him.

It was something about her, he could not explain that sort of jump started his entire being, and made him want to smile, to laugh, and indulge in all things nice.

She brought a great weight off his shoulders, and the confession he has been holding in was only growing much more difficult to resist.

He had to tell her.

He had to tell her his thoughts.

So to catch the Hyuga princess's attention, Prince Naruto cleared his throat rather loudly. He laid his chopsticks aside after eating a few scoopings of his meal before focusing his full attention on the midnight blue angel in front of him, who had paused in her feasting.

While in mid chew, Hinata's body froze up and now her lavender eyes were planted on Naruto's very being from across from her.

Naruto sent a smile of reassurance toward her way which unfroze her being she could resume chewing the food that was currently in her mouth.

Naruto chuckled in amusement at the sight of Hinata's chubby cheeks moving as they were. She reminded him of a squirrel. A cute little squirrel.

Naruto let off a hum after his laughter before intertwining his hands to place them neatly on the table before him, "Princess Hinata?"

Hinata grew rigid once more. She took the moment to swallow the onigiri that was currently in her mouth before speaking, "Y-Yes, your highness?"

"I..." Naruto took a pause in his words for a brief moment, just to get a hold of exactly what he wanted to say and what he wanted the Hyuga princess to know.

The spiky haired blond cleared his throat again, moving a bit within his seat, "Princess, I must be frank with you. I did my best to restrain my emotions but I was unable to do so, not when I saw you here in my kingdom, in the presence of my family, and within my home. I-"

"Wh-What are you s-saying, Prince Naruto?" Hinata's eyebrows furrowed as her delicate facial features shifted to take on an expression of pure shock. She didn't know what the blonde prince was babbling about. He was confusing her, no rather, he was frightening her.

Prince Naruto observed that his remarks were certainly a muddled up mess, for once in his life he allowed himself to stray away from his customary precepts to become a character that he has become quite fond of.

Naruto smiled a wide grin at Hinata from afar, smiling to reassure her, "Oh my dear princess, I have pointed out you looked familiar to me for a reason. It surely pains me that you do not think of me as a familiar in return. Do I really look that different to you? Can you really not recognize the sound of my voice? My selfless temperament? My means to satisfy you anyway I can? The teasing, joking, the-"

Hinata let off a sharp gasp which cut Naruto's words off completely. All movement was put on pause as she only stared wide-eyed back at the meritful blonde across from her who has brought to her attention the most shocking news yet.

The Avalon princess shook her head in disbelief, unable to put together the pieces that were shown to her, "No, i-it can't be." Hinata whispered out into the quiet air, her voice barely raising above a whisper but the look of disbelief that was on her face was enough to show Naruto that she was still quite confused by his very identity or rather, his second one.

Naruto lowered his head to chuckle, expressing a look of pure happiness now that he was able to reveal himself to the woman he loves, "Oh yes, anything is possible, my dear princess and I wish to hide no longer. You deserve to know the truth and I wish so desperately to grace you with it."

Hinata pulled her hand up to cover her mouth in shock as she listened to prince Naruto of Konoha speak, showering her many emotions that came to sweep her away.

Naruto nodded his head, doing so to confirm all suspicions, "You may not recognize me as I am now but I take it, perhaps, the name Menma rings a bell?"

"M-M-Menma?!!" Hinata exclaimed in shock, her eyes growing wider and wider. Not only so, but such delicate lavender orbs of hers began to water as she was shown the real truth behind Naruto's entire existence.

Before arriving at his kingdom, Hinata thought she had Naruto all figured out. She thought he would be quite the challenge to talk to, to woo, to even convince given what history and gossip says about him but now she sees that none of that's the case.

She had it all wrong.

Hinata's breathing became heavier as she continued to gaze back at Naruto, who was giving her the same playful smirk Menma akways gives her, one in which he partially exposed his canines and has mischievously turned his lips.

But instead of harboring black hair, living in squalor within her very kingdom, a new version of her lover was before her, one of perfection and grace, one of wealth and fortune, popularity and attractiveness.

Hinata's hands began to shake as the truth began to unfold, revealing a plot twist she had not seen coming.

She voiced her lover's name again, doing so in a whisper, "M-Menma? Is that really y-you?"

The male that no longer harbored jet black hair gave her a nod, doing so while presenting his true identity, one that she would have never expected.

Prince Naruto nodded his head, but gave her a playful squint of his eyes from afar, "Oh Hinata-chan, you do not have to whisper. We are safe to converse and express our love freely here." Naruto turned his head to survey the area which he saw was full of his servants who he, in fact, found trustworthy.

His servants knew, of course, what would happen if they were to tell his parents the double life he leads behind their backs. They knew what would happen if they were to get on Naruto's bad side.

Naruto had no reason to be concerned as a result.

He only took the time to rekindle back with his lover, now while presenting the roles that were bestowed upon them, roles that they did not need to hide, roles that now together, will insure them the happiness that they have always desired.

Naruto's tan face beamed up, presenting nothing but joy now that he was able to get such a secret off of his chest. He wanted nothing more than this entire day for Hinata to know of his plans, know of his identity and know of him.

He hated hiding. He hated pretending. He no longer desired to carry out such acts.

Naruto smiled to himself but decided to distance away from his thoughts to instead focus his attention back onto his lover to see how she was dealing with the big bomb he's dropped on her.

But he chuckled lightly to see her still expressing an expression of total disbelief.

Hinata croaked behind her raised hand, her eyes now staring a hole into his forehead, "But h-how? H-How were you in my village? Wh-Why were you there? How did you put on such a disguise?" Hinata snapped her eyes to his blonde hair and her mouth dropped, "Y-Your hair-?"

"It was all dye, my princess. Nothing more than that, love, I promise." Naruto chuckled amusingly from his spot at the dinner table with his lover before answering the questions Hinata gave him. He gave the table below him a tap with his finger, "To give myself a sense of comfort and control, I would like to say that I have carried out this entire arrangement on my own behalf. I wanted freedom, no, I needed it."

Naruto let out a deep sigh, letting out the dread that was locked away in his heart, "To be truly honest, my dear, being a prince has been nothing but a royal pain in the arse. Whoops!" Naruto pulled his hand up to cover his mouth, scolding himself for his language.

That managed to make Hinata giggle amusingly.

Naruto chuckled as well, bringing his hand up to rub the back of his neck, as a nervous tactic, "Excuse my language, but I simply wish to express myself. Being a prince has been the bane of my existence, my love, same as being a princess has been yours, as you've told me. The pressure to perform perfectly in front of everyone, the strict rules, the responsibilities and obligations, the nagging from my parents, and their awful choices of maidens who could potentially be my bride were all torture. Kami, every bit of it has been dreadful. Everything!"

Naruto put a hand on his chest and gave his head an aggressive nod as he poured his heart out to his lover, the only person he felt comfortable expressing his concerns to, "I've been disappointed time and time again by each marriage ritual I attend. Numerous women flocked to my lands to court me purely with their physical qualities. But when it was time to speak, they uttered nothing significant at all. The many princesses that I met lacked the intelligence, the strength, the boldness and the grace that I yearned for. Truly, every single one of them performed like robots, a mere extension of their mothers rather than beings of self, of true authenticity." Naruto exclaimed with pure emotion, letting go of everything he had yearned to let out of his heart and out of his head.

Hinata couldn't help but sympathize with her beloved. She had no idea that her lover was going through the same thing she was as a member of royalty.

She always thought she was the one taking care of him, providing for him and granting him happiness in his days within her kingdom.

But certainly that wasn't the case.

She pouted, her heart aching for her other half, "Oh Menma-kun-"

Naruto stuck up one hand, halting Hinata's words, "Please, call me Naruto, my princess. I know it's gonna be quite difficult since you've grown accustomed to calling me Menma. But I would rather you grow used to the name I was born with and not my... fictitious name." Naruto retorted with a nervous laugh.

Hinata gently gasped in response to Naruto's plea, but she agreed with her lover's requests without hesitation.

She nodded her head, her tiara twinkling in the light overhead, "Wh-Why of course. Anything for you, N-Naruto-kun. I am truly sorry for everything you have grown through. It pains me to hear you've suffered such madness alone. I can't bear to see you in any pain, my love."

"I know, my princess and it is alright. I am free now, because of you."

Hinata's eyebrows creased yet again and confusion took over her mind, "B-But, I still wish to know your reasoning for seeking refuge in my village? A-And why pose as a poor villager? How did you trick your parents?" Hinata bit down on her trembling lip, doing so briefly, "How did you tr-trick me?"

Hinata was still perplexed by a variety of issues. The entire time, she struggled to comprehend that Naruto Uzumaki, the prince of Konoha, had entered her kingdom and that she was completely ignorant of that very fact.

She could not believe this entire time, she has been in love with a man of her own stature, a man she once was deeply frightened of and wished not to ever speak to.

But now she knows that she has been conversing with Naruto without fear this entire time.

Once more, Hinata's mind was blown.

From afar, Naruto noticed Hinata's state and found it quite amusing. He chuckled once more, before bringing one hand forth to grab a hold of his wine beverage.

He cupped his hand around the wine glass and brought it up to his lips to take a sip of the reddish contents. He hummed as he took the moment to dampen his pattlete, just enough so he could carry on his conversation with his lover.

Hinata watched him the entire time, patiently waiting for Naruto to answer her questions.

With a lick his lips, Naruto savored the leftover wine that resonated on his lips and tongue before bringing his glass back down on the table, doing so with a thud following closely behind.

He cleared his throat, "Oh, Hinata-chan, it was never my intention to deceive you or hurt you in any way. I just-" He lowered his head to breathe out a deep breath, his jaw clenching a bit as he battled with his emotions. He lifted his head once more, "Simply put, I desired to begin a life other than the one I currently lead. Instead of following a path that was bestowed upon me, I wanted to forge my own. Hinata-chan, I wished to travel the world. I wanted to see what lay beyond my kingdom borders. I desired to be free of the shackles of this life." Naruto's blonde eyebrows furrowed, "I'm sure you can understand that, my love."

With widened eyes and a gaping mouth, Hinata listened intently to her blonde lover. However, she found it difficult to believe what her ears were hearing, what her eyes were seeing, or her current reality.

Is this real? She constantly asked herself.

Am I dreaming? She also asked herself as she listened to Naruto flood her with desires that she shared as well.

As a princess, she was always shielded from the inhabitants of her homeland, the nations outside of her realm, and from the entire world. She was permitted to do only what was told of her and nothing else.

Her entire existence had already been predetermined, from beginning to end.

Undoubtedly, at one point in her life, Hinata thought there was no turning back the truth that her destiny had been set from the minute she was born.

However, Hinata was able to accomplish the one thing she had always deemed impossible.

She changed her fate.

With the help of her handmaidens, she made the decision sparingly to flee her home and take in all the sights of her kingdom, a decision that brought her to Menma.

Hinata groaned, inwardly scolding herself due to referring her lover to the wrong name yet again.

Naruto. My lover's name is Naruto.

It was certainly going to take some time getting used to calling her lover such a name.

But she was willing.

Hinata perked her head once more which granted Naruto's attention.

He frowned at her from afar, taking note how silent she's become, "I know this is all quite overwhelming, I am sorry to worry you so-"

"No, no, you are quite alright. It's just um..." Hinata pulled her hand up to cup her forehead, sighing deeply which caused her chest to heave, protesting against her corset, "It's just taking me a bit of time to adjust to such news."

"Yes, yes, I imagined." Naruto clicked his tongue, "I just want to inform you that my sole mission was to grant myself freedom but also seek for my own princess, to accomplish the goal my parents could not. So yes, I disguised myself, tricked my parents and snuck out of my kingdom and ventured into the world to complete my task. All of it was initially conducted purely for leisure and exhilaration. I merely desired to experience life as a commoner. However, I was unaware of the impact such a resolution would have on my life."

Naruto paused in his words to let out a happy chuckle, one that expressed the joyous emotions he felt deep inside. His voice was warm, inviting and his speech slowly but surely answered Hinata's many questions and granted her a sense of understanding.

She gazed at Naruto from afar with her dazzling lavender eyes that captured the gaze of Naruto's, beguiling him.

He sighed blissfully, his own heart beating faster, "Oh, my beautiful princess, my entire voyage was meant to bring us together in this vast world and alter our fates."

After coming up with that conclusion, a wave of emotion began to overtake Naruto and his eyes quickly began to mist up. The Konoha Prince was becoming quite emotional.

Naruto sniffed back his tears, "Hinata-chan, when I first entered Avalon and spotted you, riding along the town on horseback with no care in the world, I fell in love instantly. I've always admired your authenticity. I admired the way you revealed your true self, no matter the circumstances. You revealed to me strength, courage and intelligence that many princesses that I have met lacked. You were different, so very different."

Naruto found himself swooning as he revealed to Hinata why he fell in love with her in the first place. He couldn't break the love spell that was over him as he gazed at Hinata, while answering more of her inquiries, including why he continued to pursue the Kingdom of Avalon as much as he did.

Hinata cooed as she witnessed Naruto's smile grow bigger and bigger, his pearly whites gleaming in the light, "My princess, I cannot thank you enough for gracing me with your beauty, for loving me for me, despite all odds. You revealed to me what true love is, instead of simple admiration due to my title. You gave me a happiness I cannot ignore. You made me laugh even when I didn't think I was capable of doing so. You relieved my misery, therefore I had to relieve yours in return." Naruto pulled his hands forward to cup his chest, just over his strong beating heart. Only then, he gave Hinata a look of pure love, one that caused Hinata to swoon.

Naruto smiled, his blue eyes twinkling within the light of the chandeliers overhead, "To you, Hinata-chan, I wish to belong. I want to be your husband and provide for you, give you my love, and offer you everything you've been denied. Nothing but joy, tranquility, and the removal of your misery is what I seek to grant you. I proudly pick you now to be my beloved, my princess and my wife. There has never been anyone else I've wanted besides you."

Hinata broke down in tears as Naruto finished his speech. She sobbed uncontrollably, prompting tears to run down her cheeks and ruin her makeup. But she didn't care.

She was overjoyed to hear her lover speak such jubilant words. She had always longed to hear Naruto say just those words. She had always desired to be with Naruto, to flee with him, and to find happiness and freedom with him and only him.

Hinata wanted Naruto for herself and couldn't possibly think of marrying anyone else. Same goes for Naruto.

Now, she's finally revealed the reason as to why Naruto denied so many princesses.

Hinata was the one he loved, wanted and wished for. His heart belonged to her, therefore he denied opening it up for anyone else.

Assuming the role of Naruto's wife, Hinata was able to take care of her people as their ruler and protector, bring honor to her parents, and adore Naruto without any limitations as she had always desired.

She would experience both happiness due to in fact marrying a man she loves and also success for ensuring protection over her kingdom.

Certainly a win-win.

Upon that realization, more tears shed down Hinata's face and she found herself flying out of her seat to stand, bringing her legs on the ground so she was hovering over the table.

She felt her dress fall freely down her body, escaping the confines beneath the table where it was free to shimmer and shine within the lightened room she was in.

Hinata sobbed in pure emotion, "O-Oh, Naruto-kun. Oh kami." Hinata pulled her hands up to cover her mouth, gazing at her lover who was beginning to rise from his seat as well.

She watched as her prince sent her a bright smile before pulling his arms wide, "Come to me, Hinata-chan."

All Naruto had to say was those exact words to get Hinata to abandon her position and rush around the table to him.

Her dainty hands clung to the flanks of her dress, lifted the hefty material to allow herself to sprint forward and come closer to her lover, who held his arms wide for her, in order to welcome her into his warmth.

She was no longer bothered by anything, not even the Konoha servants who were stationed throughout the chamber. She was only focused on Naruto and Naruto alone.

Flinging her arms forward, she practically dove onto Naruto's body once close, wrapping her arms around his neck to hold tight. She sobbed once she finally felt his large arms wrap around her back, granting her a big embrace that caused more tears to stream down her cheeks and her heart to dance within her chest.

She felt so loved in Naruto's arms, so protected, she couldn't get enough of such a feeling.

She needlessly brushed her head against her lover's magnificent suit, delighted to hear her lover laugh at her cute gesture "Yes! Oh yes, I'd adore being your wife! I'd adore to be yours. I would adore having you claim me without reservation. I cherish now that I am able to love you unconditionally without having to hide or pretend otherwise. I am grateful that I can finally stand before you and express my love without any limitations, without anyone coming between us."

It was Hinata's chance to pour her heart out and declare her love, and Naruto appreciated every single word.

Listening to her now brought tears to his eyes, causing him to tighten his hold on Hinata's petite body, embracing every part of her and cherishing her presence near to his own.

Hinata moaned in bliss in response.

Naruto pulled his head back to peer down at his beloved, whom he had successfully brought into his home and into his arms.

Naruto could not help but be in awe of the lavender eyed angel underneath him, his moonlit princess, who twinkled and shone in his hands.

She gazed up at him for what seemed like an eternity, which drove Naruto to finally lean down and capture her lips, pulling her into a passionate kiss.

Hinata groaned as her lover's warm lips brushed against her soft, velvety lips and kissed every inch of them in an instant. She held her lover's neck close as they shared a kiss, which she had only learned about with the aid of her studies.

And one thing she learned was to follow her male lover's lead, in order to offer him control of the relationship.

As a result, Hinata softly turned her head when Naruto turned his, deepening the kiss and showering her with more of his love.

The two royals let out moans of ardor and joy, their eyes closed and their arms encircling the other, their grips becoming tighter as if they were afraid the other might disappear.

The passionate and heartfelt kiss span on a bit more until it finally came to an end, doing so with a plop of their lips as Naruto and Hinata's eyes locked once more.

Both were now gasping for air but still wore adoring and content smiles, which they proudly displayed in the dining hall of Konoha's palace.

Hinata smiled up at her soon-to-be husband and brought her hands up to run her fingers up his neck, embracing his smooth skin.

Naruto groaned softly at the feel of her touch before moving his lips down to gently kiss Hinata's forehead.

Hinata responded with a pleasant sigh.

Naruto breathed out a deep breath of pure bliss as well, "Oh, my dear princess, I love you so, so much. I have loved you the minute that I laid eyes on you and I swear to you, I will love you forevermore."

≪ °❈° ≫

Finally, Prince Naruto has made a decision.

Prince Naruto has finally decided on who his princess, bride, and wife would in fact be.

But this princess was different, incredibly different, unlike all the others he'd met before.

Oh yes.

Such a princess of his was one he chose himself. A princess he loves dearly.

Princess Hinata Hyuga.

Such a decision blossomed the union of two lands, opened the gates to eternal love, and helped create a vast empire.

Shortly after Hinata's arrival in Konoha and their unilateral announcement of love, the couple was married, holding their ceremony on Naruto's homelands.

The gates of Konoha were thrown wide for guests from many foreign kingdoms, including members of Hinata Hyuga's family from Avalon, to witness the union of Hinata Hyuga, the princess of Avalon, and Naruto Uzumaki, the prince of Konoha.

Konoha and Avalon had never been happier than when Hinata and Naruto were married. A decision like this gave happiness and tranquility to both regions, assuring that the two were safe now that they had one other's backs.

The King and Queen of Konoha were thrilled and quite satisfied with Naruto's choice. Hinata was precious to them both, for she was the exact princess they foresaw Naruto marrying.

Hinata far exceeded their expectations, making both of them proud. Minato and Kushina were so taken with Hinata and her personality that they welcomed her without hesitation, caring for her as if she were their very own.

The Queen of Avalon was overjoyed
both for Hinata's achievement in securing an ulare mate and for Avalon's triumph.

Avalon now stood tall, thanks to Prince Naruto and his people who blessed her nation with prosperity, resources, and the necessary renovation to make everyone happy, including the poor.

Everyone was ecstatic, primarily Naruto and Hinata who were now free to love one another and be able to hold, kiss, and spend quality time together.

There was no longer any concealing or secrecy.

No more.

The two were initially denied the right to happiness and were only required to abide by the obligations and instructions placed upon them in order to safeguard their respective kingdoms.

But because of ones act of deceit, because of the brief instant that Hinata and Naruto's eyes locked, their destiny was altered, and they both took a different path to a place where happiness awaited them at the very end of the rainbow.

Hinata once feared marriage, feared to be sent off to marry a man she didn't love.

But now, she had nothing to fear.

Her decision to marry Naruto, to love him, and to remain by his side as his wife brought her nothing but joy.

Undying joy.

Hinata succeeded in protecting her people of Avalon, bringing them joy, restoring her homelands, caring for the destitute as well as her mother, father and her dear handmaidens, leaving everyone as happy as she felt every passing day.

She adores Naruto, and Naruto adores her, providing them with the ideal existence they've always desired.

Hinata Hyuga and Naruto Uzumaki were blessed with a happy ending, after all.

◤──•~❉᯽❉~•──◥

A.N.

I had so much fun writing this one!! I actually spoke to my sister about how I could write this story and she told me I should write a reverse Aladdin approach where Naruto presents himself a a poor boy that falls in love with princess Hinata but turns out he's a Prince. (Kinda reminds me of Princess and the Frog to, tbh, lol)

I also wanted to tell the story sorta in Hinata's P.O.V to keep the suspense.

I hope I succeeded in surprising you all. If not, bummer, haha.

I also wanted to include Hitomi Hyuga more since we don't see her much in the anime or in fanfictions like that.

So I wanted to mention her as the grouchy mother with high expectations. I had fun writing her character tbh. It was different.

Anywho, I wanna warn you about something. The next prompt that's coming up is prettyyy extreme. It's like mad smutty and it's... crazy. I didn't hold back on it at all.

You have KawaiiHinaHime08 to thanks, haha!! Sorry for calling ya out! 😭 I actually think you'll really like the next prompt thoo!!! 😆😆😆

Anyway, hoped you enjoyed, please do comment and vote!

I really appreciate it!

Love ya! 💗

-Powerful_Niya