Author note: I hope you all enjoyed the previous chapter. I am quite rusty when it comes to writing and portraying some things the way I mean. I'm sure you noticed it was all in Sakura's POV. Not sure how many people prefer that over the traditional 3rd person, but I will try to change it up a bit.
I do have a slight announcement regarding the pairing. It will not be ItaSaku. Maybe some fluff here and there but it will be mostly platonic. I have decided that GaaSaku will work best within the context of this story. I apologize if you are disappointed, but I will make sure that this story will be well worth your time! I have planned a majority of it already, if I were to guess how many chapters there will be, I would say close to 35, unless I get carried away. Hehe. This chapter includes some depictions of rape and suicide. Read with caution.
Without further adieu, let this chapter begin!
The Bloody Cherry Blossom
Chapter two: The Mission
I awoke abruptly as the sunlight peered through the curtains. Sasuke was gone, probably a last minute mission. I was in the living room, on the couch, trying to remember what had happened the previous night until I was reminded by the pain across my face.
I found my way to the bathroom and took a look at myself in the mirror. I cringed at the bruised figure of a hand on my cheek. The residual pain wasn't much but he left his mark as a reminder. He said he was sorry, he didn't mean to do it. I gently sighed and began healing the bruise. No one needed to know.
"S-Sakura-sensei?" I remembered her face. I came out of the bathroom and saw Sarada just quietly standing there. I smiled at her.
"How did you sleep, Sarada-chan? Would you like some breakfast." She seemed to have something to say but dismissed it and nodded.
"I slept well, thank you sensei. I guess I am a little hungry…" as if on cue, her stomach growled and I giggled lightly and walked her to the kitchen table.
"Would you like an omelet? You can help me make some." She grinned and nodded. She rose from her seat and awaited for instructions.
"Alright, grab two eggs from the fridge and some bell peppers, cilantro, and carrots. Have you ever made an omelet before?" she shamefully shook her head.
"It's okay, I can teach you! You know, I wasn't very good at cooking when I was your age too. My sensei actually taught me how in case he wouldn't be there. My teammates were very appreciative that I could feed them something more than oatmeal." I laughed to myself. Sarada looked at me and smiled.
"Can you tell about when you were a genin? All your missions and your teammates? Were they like Hidaru and Jarusko?" whilst multitasking I began to reminisce of the old days of when I was just some fan girl for Sasuke, and the times where I broke out of that case and become my own person. A real shinobi.
"Well, I think that Jarusko and Hidaru are similar to Naruto, but not really similar to Sasuke. Sasuke… was the problematic teammate." I laughed to myself as I was chopping the veggies for the omelets. I cracked an egg over the hot sauce pan and waited a minute before adding the ingredients.
"Was he mean to you when you were younger?" she asked cryptically. I knew what she was picking at. I sighed but didn't deny.
"I wasn't the same person I am now that I was back then. I was actually really mean to Naruto, and regrettably, my own best friend Ino. Because we both had feelings for Sasuke, I insisted we become rivals and ended our friendship. "
"Your turn to make an omelet Sarada-chan." She took the lead and copied my instructions.
"Eventually, I made amends with Naruto and with Ino. I worked my way to becoming the better person I knew I could be. It wasn't easy but I earned everyone's respect, even Sasuke which was what I wanted. After he returned to Konoha, he told me he loved me and we've been together ever since."
Sarada finished making her omelet and beamed with pride. We took our plates to the table and began eating.
"Sakura-sensei, did you mean what you said last night? I paused for a moment. "About… adopting me? Taking me in?" I smiled sadly and finished my omelet and put my plate in the sink.
"I did. I want nothing more than to help you grow up and make your dreams come true. No matter what it takes." Sarada finished her plate and set it in the sink as well.
"Even though Sasuke-sama doesn't want me?" I could feel the pain return. Her pain is my pain. If I had to fight to take that pain away, I will hold myself to that promise.
"Sasuke is a very traditional person, and he is still learning how to express his feelings in a healthy way. It's not that he doesn't want you, he is just afraid, I think." I tried to explain, but I am sure she wasn't convinced.
Suddenly, a knock at the door. I opened it to see Neji in his full ANBU gear. He handed me a note and darted off. I opened the note and carefully read.
Sakura, bring Sarada and come immediately.
Kakashi
"Sarada, time to get dressed. I washed your clothes last night. The Hokage has requested to see us." She nodded and quickly dressed herself. I wrote a note for Sasuke and left it on the table if he happened to come home and wonder my whereabouts.
X
"Hello Sakura, Sarada-chan." Kakashi greeted us. We bowed respectfully.
"What is it that you wished to speak to us about?" Sarada looked nervous, looking around constantly. Kakashi noticed. He prompted his guards to leave the room before casting a silent barrier over the room.
"Sakura, Neji informed me of the events that transpired last night. Have you had the time to analyze the sample you collected?" I briefly nodded.
"Yes, however, the results were inconclusive. It seems that it was planted there by the assailant knowing we would be unable to track the dna. I will see if we can do some more tests, but that would take much longer." Kakashi sighed but nodded nonetheless. His attention went to Sarada.
"How is Sarada doing? I see you've taken her in" I smiled.
"I have. I actually wanted to speak about taking full guardianship of Sarada until she is self dependent." Kakashi smiled through his mask and nodded his head.
"That would be very selfless of you, Sakura. I expect nothing less from my favorite student." I laughed light heartedly. Sarada still seemed quiet and nervous.
"Sarada, would you like for Sakura to be your legal guardian?" she paused for a moment but smiled.
"Yes, Hokage-sama. Sakura-sensei wants me to grow up and achieve my dreams… I know that she loves me and will do anything to make me happy."
It made my heart grow hearing her talk about me so fondly. I am going to be a mother, I am going to help her grow up and be the woman she dreams to be.
"I suppose it is settled then. I just need Sakura to sign a few things for me, and it will be officially at the beginning of next week. Before you both leave, I would like to speak with Sakura alone." Sarada smiled and left the room, closing the door behind her.
"Sakura, with the sample you collected, you could not extract DNA? Do you have the sample with you?" thankfully I had it on me. I had a feeling he would have some questions on why the results were inconclusive.
"It seems it was soaked within a protective layer that mutates the dna thus making it untraceable." Kakashi thought for a moment.
"Seems strange. Not many nins would know how to mutate DNA. Seems like only an experienced medic would be capable of pulling off such a feat." A lightbulb went off in my head.
"Kabuto." Kakashi's demeanor changed drastically.
"What would Orochimaru or Kabuto want with a civilian woman? That seems extremely suspicious. Was there any other evidence at the scene?"
"Sarada said she found this note, but I haven't analyzed it yet." Kakashi sighed and turned around in his chair and stared out the window.
"Sakura, do you remember what I'd say about looking under the underneath?" I nodded my head and took a close look at the note.
"Kakashi, I think there is a message hidden within the note. I don't even think Sarada's mother wrote it."
"Decode it immediately"
Sarada, I am sorry to leave you. Remember that you are loved and you will reach your dreams. I will be looking after you from above. Please don't do anything stupid. I love you so much. I wish there was another way, but you must move past your pain to strivefor more than I could have ever provided you.
I tried to piece together what I was looking at. It was so cryptically written, it could be just mere coincidence but with the case we have it couldn't be ruled out. I put all the key words together, piecing them into the most coherent message I could until it all came together.
"Strive for love, you will leave pain." it doesn't make sense. What does it mean? It was addressed to Sarada. Strive for love you will leave pain…
"what do you think it means Kakashi?" it felt as if we stared at the piece of paper for hours straight.
"It's a warning, Sakura." Why would Kabuto be warning a little girl? Why would he kill her mother? Just one answer made several new questions.
"What should we do, Kakashi?" I was worried for Sarada's safety.
"For now, nothing. We need more information before I can do anything such as restrictions or protection. Just keep an eye on Sarada and anything suspicious or out of the ordinary." I bowed in agreement. Walking myself out, Kakashi stopped me for one last thing.
"Do not let Sasuke know about this. He may act irrationally." I nodded and smiled.
"Thank you Kakashi, ja ne."
X
Sarada was outside playing with Akamaru, Ino and Kiba stood aside watching her.
"Sorry for taking so long Sarada. Kakashi-sama needed to go over a few things with me. Would you like to do a little bit of shopping? I know your clothes are back home but they are still doing an investigation and you cant go inside we can grab you a few new outfits and whatever else you would like."
"Thanks for watching Sarada for me you two." Ino grinned, Kiba merely nodded.
"Not a problem forehead! What did you need to talk to the Hokage for anyways?" I smiled and looked at Sarada.
"I am going to adopt Sarada-chan." I announced. Sarada giggled happily and rushed over to hug my side. Ino smiled and gently laughed
"That's great news! Is Sasuke-kun excited?" our smiles distorted instinctively. "He wasn't exactly thrilled but I think he just needs some time to warm up to it."
"Oh, I see. I'm sure he will come around. Plus, you'll have a babysitter whenever you two start having babies! Sarada-chan will be an awesome big sister." Sarada laughed and gave Ino a tight hug before we started making our way back home.
"Thanks for the chat, Ino-pig! We'll talk later!"
"Sakura-sensei? What did Hokage-sama want to talk to you about? With the barrier and stuff, is it something serious?"
I lightly nodded. Sarada sighed and lowered her head sadly. I patted her back and smiled at her reassuringly.
"Don't worry, Sarada-chan. Everything will be fine." Suddenly, both our stomachs started growling. I laughed and Sarada blushed.
"Would you like to go grab some ramen at Ichiraku's?" she nodded excitedly as we headed over.
"Hello Sakura-chan! Sarada-chan! What can we get cha today?" Ayame greeted us happily. We promptly sat down at the bar.
"Two miso ramens please! How is your father doing? Is he taking the medicine I prescribed?" Ayame called out our order to the back of the house and brought us a glass of water
"He is doing better, he just ran out of his medicine and he hasn't had a chance to run to the pharmacy for a refill. He has a small cold and with me running the place now and my cousin taking care of him, some things have been a bit hectic."
"Oh no, well, I'd be more than happy to bring his medicine to him if you want! We know life can be busy at times, I don't mind making some time to make sure you all have everything you need."
Ayame looked so happily relieved. She took over the shop after Teuchi had a heart attack a year ago. I was his doctor and helped him throughout his recovery. I took great pride in what I accomplished in the hospital.
Tsunade offered me a lead doctor position at the hospital when I made Jounin, but I turned it down to be assigned my own team of genin; and now, I'll be returning. Unsure what position, I will have to talk to Tsunade whenever I get the chance.
"Thank you so much, Sakura-chan! Here are your meals, and they're both on the house."
"Oh, Ayame-chan, you don't have to!" she smiled at us both.
"I insist! You have been a blessing to our family, it is only fair." We thanked her again and finished our noodles before leaving.
"Thank you again Ayame-chan! I'll be by tomorrow to bring Teuchi-san's medicine. I'll be bringing a month supply since my team and I will be gone for a little while."
"Thank you again! You all have a good mission!"
We made our way home about half past twelve. I started packing our bags for the mission tomorrow. It was a simple escort mission, we were supposed to pick up a gentleman from Iwagakure and escort him to Sunagakure.
"Sakura-sensei? Is this going to be a hard mission?" I shook my head and smiled.
"Harder than what you're used to, maybe; but definitely nothing too difficult. It's an escort mission. Even if we run into some trouble it will be nothing that I can't handle." Sarada let out a sigh of relief and gave me a hug.
"I'm glad you're my sensei, Sakura-sensei." I kissed her forehead.
"I know I can never replace your mother, but I will do everything in my power to give you everything she wished she could have provided."
She let out some tears of happiness and I held her in my arms tightly, not letting go for at least a couple minutes. I loved my student dearly, well, all of them but Sarada just reminded me so much of myself, I want to be the sensei I wish I had.
Kakashi was a good sensei in some ways, but he was never there for me like he was with Naruto or especially Sasuke. I never resented him for it, though. I knew that my skills were not what he specialized in and he just didn't know how to guide me like he could with the boys.
Whenever Sasuke and Naruto first left, I was very lucky that Tsunade accepted my request to train as her apprentice. Without her guidance, I'm not sure if I would be the person that I am today. She helped me recognize my strengths and weaknesses, and how to use my fighting style on the field and in the hospital as a medic.
The rest of the day went by rather quickly, Sasuke didn't really leave a note on his whereabouts, but I made just enough food for a plate for him if he managed to come home tonight. I wish he would be more open and communicative. Beggars can't be choosers, though, right? I should be grateful that he is in my life. I don't need to complain on the small things so much.
Sarada and I ate a nice dinner consisting of Katsu pork and a side of sticky white rice. We saved a plate for Sasuke in the fridge. It was very delicious, and Sarada even got to help me cook it. I enjoyed teaching her domestic things just as much as things for her title of kunoichi. I just… I love helping others learn and better themselves. I just want to help those be the people they dream about being.
Suddenly, Sasuke walked through the door dirty and bleeding. I rushed over to him and tried healing the first open wound I found.
"Sasuke-kun, what happened? Come, sit down." I helped him to our couch. Sarada was still at the table, quiet as a mouse.
"I was ambushed at my destination. They were all at least a rank ninja, no sign of affiliation." I finished healing his shoulder and moved towards his back, where several stab wounds resided.
"Are you hungry Sasuke-kun? We made you a plate, you can eat while I finish healing you." He simply nodded and Sarada took the cue to start warming up his meal to present it to him quickly. He ate in silence while I finished any injuries he may have abstained throughout his mission.
Sarada took her plate and mine and began washing dishes. As soon as Sasuke was finished with his meal, Sarada took it and washed it as well then cleaned the table off and went straight to her room. I could tell she was trying very hard to have Sasuke like her and want her around. He was the second chance for a father she could get, and she didn't want to be without one again.
I finally finished healing all of Sasuke's wounds and felt him lay against me. I smiled and moved to kiss his forehead, he extended his arm to pull me into his lips.
I closed my eyes and kissed him passionately.
"Make love to me, Sakura."
"I would love to, but I have to wake up early tomorrow for a mission." He pushed me away and walked his way to our bedroom. I could tell he was aggravated. Maybe I should? He had a rough day, he needs me and I pushed him away. I need to stop being so selfish. I sighed sadly.
I walked to our room and saw Sasuke lying in bed on his side, attempting to fall asleep. I stripped all my clothes and climbed into bed with him, and pulled him into my chest, my fingers through his hair, pulling his hair playfully. I felt him smirk against my breasts and he flipped on top of me and began kissing my neck, causing me to moan his name softly. I definitely was not going to get any sleep tonight.
I woke up exhausted. I knew I would have been, but I cannot deprive my husband to be, the love of my life. I took some caffeine supplements, to give me the small boost of energy I needed to get up and going. Thankfully, I had both mine and Sarada's pouches packed the night before and all we had to do was wake up, eat and get dressed and we'd be ready to go. I made some breakfast quickly for Sarada and I. I prepared some pancakes, even a couple for Sasuke whenever he woke up.
Sarada and I ate breakfast and got dressed and were ready to go. I left a note for Sasuke to remind him of our mission. The last mission I will have. I thought sadly.
Jarusko and Hidaru were there promptly as asked. I smiled, my team and I were going on our first and last c rank mission together. I opened the scroll and reminded them of our goal and any other details that pertained to the mission statement. We left through the gates and traveled our way to Iwagakure. It took a couple days to get there due to some storms, but we made it through finely. The gentleman we were sent to escort was at the front of the village gates.
"About time you arrived, I've been waiting here for 2 hours." He said, aggravated. I bowed in respect, the children followed in.
"I apologize, Tenshu-san. We experienced some storms traveling, but we will make sure that your travel will be as quick and safe as possible." He nodded and started walking towards Sunagakure.
He was relatively quiet, Jarusko tried to make some jokes along the way to pass the time, and maybe make the man a little more comfortable, but to no avail.
"I thought I hired ninja, not a wannabe comedian." Jarusko apologized and became quiet. We were about halfway to Suna, when the man demanded we stop.
"Is everything okay, Tenshu-san?" I asked. I looked to my students, they seemed nervous and on edge. Suddenly, a huge sound wave pulsed through the air.
"Everyone, get behind me! Now!" I got myself ready for any sign of attack. Tenshu stood in place and then began chuckling. The sound waves continued to fill the air, becoming even more aggressive. Tenshu's appearance then began to warp until a man with silver hair and glasses stood aside.
"Kabuto." He continued cackling and adjusted his glasses. His attention went to Sarada. I glared at him and held her back.
"Oh, my. Sakura-chan. How have you grown. It seems you have taken an interest in my daughter." My eyes widened and I felt Sarada push away.
"F-father?" she called out, her voice trembling. He smirked and nodded. He held his arms out for her.
"Come, hug your father."
"Don't go to him, Sarada. You stay back here." I ordered her. She looked conflicted. The sound waves died down until all that was heard was the sand running with the wind.
"Come here, my daughter. Is this how you treat your father?" Jarusko pulled out from behind me and threw a shuriken towards him, which he of course dodged.
"You're a shitty excuse for a father! Where were you when she needed you?" he laughed. I growled.
"Jarusko! You need to stand back! Kabuto is no one to mess with. You all need to leave and go straight to Suna and alert the Kazekage!" They stood stiff for a moment. Sarada looked at me and then at Kabuto.
"It's an order! Go!" I yelled at them all, Jarusko and Hidaru started to run away but 3 sound ninjas blocked their way.
"No one will leave here uninjured, Sakura-chan." Kabuto laughed.
"Come back you two. If I have to die protecting you all, that is what I will have to do." I gulped, thinking of what to do next. Sarada started walking towards Kabuto slowly.
"Sarada, stay here!" She was crying. Kabuto held his arms and pulled Sarada in and stroked her hair. She started sobbing. The sand nins began to surround us. Jarusko and Hidaru stood behind me, back to back, trying to cover any openings. I had to think quickly.
"Sarada-chan, did you like your present? Wasn't your mother just beautiful?" Sarada tensed up and looked into her father's eyes. She tried to pull away but could no longer move.
"Sakura-sensei! I, I can't move! Help me!" She was sobbing uncontrollably. I glared at Kabuto.
"What did you do to her?! Leave her alone!" I yelled angrily. Why is he here, what is his plan?
He sneered and then began to caress Sarada's shoulders sensually, her eyes widened in fear before more tears aggressively formed.
"Sarada-chan is going to be my new vessel, this body is getting a little too… old, and frail. Not as useful as a young, still developing body, wouldn't you say?" I charged at Kabuto, chakra radiating from my fists.
"Leave her be, you sick bastard! She does not deserve your filthy influence." Kabuto held her stiff body against his while she continued to cry.
Jarusko and Hidaru were now fighting against the sound ninjas, I could tell they were trying their best, but the sound ninjas were much more experienced. The strongest sound wave then blew through the air, Jarusko and Hidaru fell to the ground, grasping their ears and screaming in pain. There was massive amounts of blood coming out of both their ears.
"Jarusko! Hidaru!" I called out, they made no response to my voice. Their ear drums must have exploded. This is bad, this is really… really bad. I didn't know what to do.
"Let my team go, Kabuto!" He signaled the sound ninja to fall back and leave.
"Those two," he pointed at Jarusko and Hidaru. "They can leave, if they can find their way out of the desert." He snickered. I rushed over to Hidaru, he knew the direction to Suna and he would be able to carry Jarusko. I healed him, and waited a moment for him to regain consciousness. I tried to speak, but he still could not understand a word I was saying. I feared he may be permanently deaf. I signed to him to run off to Suna with Jarusko and get help. Immediately. He nodded his head as he picked up Jarusko and ran off as fast as he could. My attention was back to a nearly unconscious Sarada and Kabuto.
"What do I have to do to have you let Sarada go?" he looked at her, and then at me.
"Well, I wasn't planning on letting either of you go." I growled and kept chasing after him, my fists inflamed with chakra. He carried Sarada close to his body, taunting me. I looked around for any openings.
"You can't escape me, Sakura-chan." Suddenly, he was behind me, and I felt a sharp pain against my spine. I turned around, face to face.
"What did you do to me?!" My body went limp, I fell to the ground, with no control over my muscles. 'This is bad, what the hell am I going to do? I can't even protect my students! What kind of sensei am I?" I sulked.
Kabuto dropped Sarada beside me, I saw her regain consciousness, but she had little to no strength from what I could tell. I felt so tired.
"Sakura-chan, Sarada-chan. You both have been rendered helpless, will you fight for your lives, or will one sacrifice for the other?" Sarada was crying, she cannot suffer this much so soon. She… she is going to be my daughter. As a mother, I must sacrifice for her. I love her.
"Kabuto… Leave Sarada alone, I will do whatever you ask of me. Just-just let her go." I begged. He laughed at me and kicked my stomach. I seethed in pain.
"If you wish, Sakura-chan, but Sarada will bear witness to your sacrifice. Everything comes with a price" He knelt down and with kunai in hand, he cut through my shirt and chest bindings. I braced myself and looked at Sarada.
"Sarada, listen to me. Whatever happens, you will stay strong, you are important to me and I will do whatever I can to protect you. I love you as my own daughter. Don't blame yourself for anything." Her eyes filled with tears and I could hear her sobs.
"Oh, how noble of you, Sakura-chan. Claiming a broken child as she watches you sacrifice your body." His hands were everywhere, I merely closed my eyes, trying not to look him in his eyes.
He stabbed my shoulder, blood pooling over my body. I screamed in pain.
"You will look at me as I take you away from your precious Sasuke-kun." I did as told, everyone has to make a sacrifice for the ones they love.
X
"Kazekage-sama! There are two boys outside the gate, demanding they speak to you, they claim it is urgent." Gaara nodded his head, signaling to allow them access.
"Bring them at once. Thank you Niko-san." Gaara looked out the window, just looking over his village. Thinking of how far he had come in the past ten years.
A knock at the door, alerted Gaara. It must be the two boys.
"Come in." the two boys, dirty and injured came in urgently.
"Kazekage-sama, we need your help! My team and I were on a mission, and then we were ambushed by sound ninja! My sensei told me to take my teammate and run here to ask for your help immediately! My other teammate and sensei are still there! Please help!" The blonde haired boy exclaimed.
"Give me your names, and the names of your teammates. I will send someone immediately." Gaara replied plainly.
"Jarusko is me, Hidaru," Jarusko pointed to the brown haired boy. "Is him. Our teammates are Sarada and our sensei is Sakura Haruno." Gaara's eye twitched.
"Did the assailants give any names?" Hidaru chided in,
"One went by the name of Kabuto. Sakura-sensei said he is no one to take lightly." Gaara feared the worst.
"Baki, get Kankurou, Temari, and Matsuri. Send them immediately. Treat this as a rescue mission" Gaara ordered, Baki did as told, Gaara sighed and put his face into his palms.
"You boys may leave. Niko-san, will you make arrangements for them to stay at the hospital for treatment?" Niko bowed and escorted the boys out. Gaara opened a drawer in his desk and pulled out a picture of he and Sakura. They grew very close after she had came to his aid and saved his brother's life from the Akatsuki.
He sighed yet again and put the picture back in it's place.
"Please be alright, Sakura…"
X
"Temari-senpai! I think I see something!" Matsuri called out. The approached the area and saw two bodies, one sprawled out on their stomach, and completely undressed. They then saw pink. Temari grit her teeth, took a deep breath and released.
They picked up Sarada's fully clothed body, she was unconscious, but no serious sign of injury. Sakura, on the other hand, was obviously in severe trauma. Matsuri briefly checked over Sakura's wounds and then grabbed a blanket out of her medical bag to wrap around Sakura's exposed body.
"How bad, Matsuri?" Temari asked. She shook her head. She seemed to be trying to speak, but could not find the words to explain.
"It… She, she has been assaulted. I made sure to grab samples, and already used emergency contraceptive, but… She is in rough shape." Kankurou shook his head and clenched his fists.
"The sick bastard who did this to her will pay." He vowed. He carried Sakura's now covered body, and Temari carried Sarada's. It was a very quiet trip back.
X
"Temari, do you have your mission statement ready?" she nodded and handed it in promptly. Gaara read quickly and then looked back up Temari. Temari's fists were clenched, her teeth grinding against one another. She took a deep breath.
"The other genin was in in decent shape, she was poisoned, but no lasting physical damage." she paused.
"And, Sakura?" Gaara pressed on. Temari clenched her fists. She looked Gaara in the eyes.
"She… she was raped, Gaara." He felt his heart sting.
"Can you tell me… is she going to be okay?" Gaara's voice cracked. Temari turned around to avoid showing any emotion to her younger brother
"I-I don't know, Gaara… Matsuri checked her over, she said… she was brutally assaulted. Multiple stab wounds, her genitals were mutilated, she was strangled with her own underwear." Gaara put his face into the palms of his hands.
"Even if she recovers physically, there is no telling the emotional trauma she has suffered. We must alert Konoha immediately, and maybe ask for Tsunade-sama to come and take a look for herself. Matsuri did all she could, but she isn't as experienced in this type of… trauma." Gaara looked out his window and sighed. He turned back around and wrote a quick note.
X
Hokage-Sama
It is in our deepest worries that we must call upon the help of Tsunade-sama to Sunagakure. We have had an incident with Team 13, Consisting of Jarusko Sato, Hidaru Takanami, Sarada Namura, and their Team Captain, Sakura Haruno. We request immediate help as Sakura Haruno is in critical condition. Thank you.
Kazekage,
Gaara
"Shikamaru! Bring Tsunade-sama and Sasuke here at once!" Within a second Shikamaru disappeared without a trace. Kakashi kept reading the letter over and over again.
'Please be okay, Sakura. You are a strong girl, you will make it." Kakashi prayed to himself. Almost immediately, Tsunade barged in and were followed by Sasuke and Naruto. Kakashi sighed.
"What has happened to my student!" Tsunade roared.
"Is Sakura-chan okay?" Naruto cried, Tsunade hit him over the head.
"This is why she should have retired already, now she's in trouble and I can't protect her." Sasuke stated angrily. Tsunade looked at Sasuke with eyes of rage.
"Sakura will retire whenever she is ready! You should be a good husband and support her like she does you! You ungrateful brat!" Kakashi covered his ears, annoyed with all the noise. As Shikamaru would say, troublesome.
"Alright, everyone. Silent!" Kakashi hollered." Everyone ceased their bickering, but Tsunade glared at Sasuke angrily and he did so back.
"Naruto, you weren't called here. This only was to pertain to Tsunade, and I only invited Sasuke since he is engaged to Sakura; however, you'll bug me constantly so I'll just send you along for my own sanity." Naruto grinned.
"What is wrong with Sakura, Kakashi? Did Gaara explain her condition?" Kakashi shook his head.
"He only stated her condition was critical. He didn't speak of her teammates, so I can only assume their injuries were minimal, which I would fully expect from Sakura as their captain. I ask that you all pack immediately and leave as soon as possible. I will send a response to Gaara to let him know that you will all be on your way. Leave, now." They did as told, Shikamaru being the last one present.
"Kakashi, are you sure it is wise to send our 3 strongest shinobi out of the village while the Akatsuki are still prevalent?" Kakashi looked at the shadow master and raised his shoulders.
"Probably not, but they would have left on their own accord if they knew of Sakura's condition. At least they are all able to protect one another together. We can only hope for the best." Shikamaru nodded in agreement and left the room, leaving Kakashi to his thoughts.
X
"I told her to stop this nonsense and retire. She could still work at the damn hospital to appease her need to help others." Sasuke said irritated. Tsunade clenched her fists and hit Sasuke in the back of his head, earning a hateful response.
"What the hell is your problem? It's because of this, she thinks she can be a ninja and captain and now look at her, who knows what happened to her."
"Sakura worked her ass off to make herself stronger and to prove to you and herself that she isn't useless, which you just so conveniently forget you told her she was when she was a teenager! Do you realize how damn hard it was to teach someone with such low expectations for themselves because the one person they wanted to gain approval from would only see her as a hindrance? You should be thankful she even gave you a chance! If it were up to me, your ass would have been rotting in prison for as long as your miserable life allowed."
"She kind of has a point, teme," Sasuke glared at Naruto, to which he responded in silence.
"It doesn't matter now, Sakura is hurt and here we are to pick up the pieces." Tsunade really hated Sasuke and his selfish way of thinking. She didn't want him back after he had been corrupted by Orochimaru and his henchmen. Sakura pleaded with her to spare Sasuke's life to which she reluctantly agreed.
Truth be told, she would have rather Sakura give Naruto a chance, at least he would do anything to make her happy and wouldn't try to kill or hurt her physically or emotionally. The bickering ensued all the way to Sunagakure. Naruto stuck in the middle of the two exchanging verbal blows. He wonders how Sakura managed to deal with this.
After hours of walking, they finally arrived at the gates of Suna, Temari waiting for them at the entrance. The verbal feud between Tsunade and Sasuke was placed on hold. Tsunade ran into the village and straight to the hospital to tend to her ill student. Sakura may have surpassed her some years ago, but there were still some things she has yet to teach her.
"Temari-san, do you know what happened to Sakura-chan?" Temari sighed sadly and signaled for Naruto and Sasuke to follow.
They quickly arrived into Gaara's office, he was filling out paperwork accordingly when they walked into his office.
"Gaara! Is Sakura-chan okay? What happened?!" Gaara sighed. He should have known better that Naruto would be at the frontlines if he heard Sakura was hurt. Even if he was married now, Sakura was his friend and he never lets his friends suffer in silence.
Gaara then looked up to Sasuke. He knew that Sasuke and Sakura were engaged to be married, he couldn't understand why Sakura would give him another chance after all the pain and destruction he made her endure. Love is bliss, he thought. He simply pulled out a folder and put it on top of his desk and pushed it forward to Naruto and Sasuke.
"This is her medical file for this visit. Be wary, it is nothing you are accustomed to." Sasuke, annoyed, grabs the file and looks through it accordingly. His grip loosens then grows tighter, his anger rising.
"Is this some kind of joke?" he threw the file to the ground. Gaara looked at him blankly. Naruto was in the dark, picking up the file to read for himself.
Medical File #254321
Patient: Haruno Sakura
Condition: Critical Condition
Diagnosis: Rape and Assault
Symptoms: Asphyxiation, Stab wounds, Genital Mutilation
Suspect: Kabuto Yakushi
Naruto looked up at Gaara, tears swelling in his eyes.
"Gaara, is, is this for real? Is she okay?" Gaara slowly nodded his head. Sasuke stood there silently, basking in his own anger and rage.
"Niko-san, get Kankurou. Have him look over the office for me. I am going to visit Sakura-san." Niko bowed and did as told.
Sasuke and Naruto followed Gaara's lead to the hospital. Once they got there, they saw Tsunade and Sakura's beaten body on a stretcher, heading for the operating room. Sasuke tried to follow, but Tsunade gave him a death glare, warning him to stay away.
Jarusko, Hidaru and Sarada came out of a room together, now fully healed. They all looked to see Naruto, Sasuke and Gaara standing there, hoping to have seen Sakura. Sarada started crying, Jarusko and Hidaru held her tightly.
"It's all my fault, he, he hurt her because of me! She wanted to protect me, and I couldn't do anything but watch." Sasuke walked over to Sarada and looked down on her and smacked her across the face.
"I knew you would be trouble, you brat. Damn Sakura for taking your worthless life seriously." Jarusko stood in front of Sarada and Hidaru consoled Sarada. Naruto and Gaara intervened, Gaara especially glaring down the young Uchiha.
"You will not harm anyone in my presence, Uchiha. Do that again, and I won't be afraid to revoke your visitation rights."
"Yeah, teme, what is your problem!? Sarada feels bad enough for what happened, she doesn't need your bullshit to deal with too!" Sasuke scoffed and walked away, to the exit of the hospital.
"Where do you think you are going, Uchiha? You are not to be left alone in my village. You may have been pardoned within your own country, but this is my world. You are not nearly as welcome here." Sasuke growled.
"What do you expect I do then, Kazekage-sama?" Gaara looked him dead in the face, and pointed to a chair.
"You sit and wait for Sakura, as she has waited for you. I assume that her surgery and recovery will take some time, you will wait for Tsunade-sama to give her blessing to see her." Gaara walked towards the exit but looked back at Naruto and Sasuke, they sat down, patiently waiting to see Sakura again.
X
Pain. Pain everywhere. I cannot scream anymore, I cannot cry anymore. I turned my head to the side for a moment to see my student's tear filled face. She was no longer conscious, I turned my head back, facing Kabuto. He was dressing himself and then spat on my face.
He then bent down between and looked me in my eyes and brought out a rusted kunai.
"I almost forgot to give Sasuke-kun a lasting present." The pain between my legs grew stronger, now unbearable. I tried to scream but only found myself falling into the darkness. I was too weak… I don't want to wake up. I am worthless now.
X
Tsunade and a group of nurses brought out Sakura's body on a stretcher out of the operating room. Alerting both Sasuke and Naruto of their presence, she ordered the nurses send Sakura to a recovery room.
Sasuke and Naruto rose from their seats and approached Tsunade. She promptly walked over to a chair and sat down exhausted.
"Tsunade-Baachan, is Sakura-chan going to be okay?" Tsunade sighed but gave a faint nod. Naruto and Sasuke started to walk to Sakura's room but Tsunade stopped them.
"Sakura needs to rest. Give her a few hours to sleep and wake up on her own, or so help me, both of you will be admitted and I will not heal either one of you." Naruto gulped and Sasuke rolled his eyes but complied.
X
"Gaara, Sakura just came out of surgery, did you want to go see her?" Gaara looked at his older sister and nodded.
"I'll stand watch up here, just let me know how she is doing when you get back, okay? Gaara thanked his sister and headed to the hospital. He saw Sasuke, Naruto and Tsunade sitting down in the waiting room resting. Sasuke awoke to his presence and glared.
"No one is seeing Sakura before me, I don't care if you are the Kazekage, she is my wife."
"Fiancé" Gaara corrected, only to receive a snarl.
"You seem to forget who you are talking to, Uchiha. You will show me respect or you will not see her. She does not need your negative attitude in her condition." Tsunade stepped in between them both, annoyed of both of their incessant arguing.
"I determine when Sakura is going to see anyone, and I will only allow one person in with me at a time. Since Gaara is the kage, and he is more tolerable than you," implying Sasuke, "He will come in with me first. You and Naruto may stand outside of the room and I will call for the next person whenever Sakura is ready."
Gaara and Tsunade walked into the room, closing the door shut behind them. They saw Sakura awake but deep in thought. She looked up to see them and sighed, laying her head back down.
"Sakura, can you tell me how you're feeling?" Sakura looked away but then saw Gaara by her side. He held her hand in his, and patted her head gently.
"I'm in so much pain, shishou… Can you tell me, did Kabuto…?" Tsunade looked down.
"Sakura, I did all that I could, but I'm afraid that your ability to bear children… may have been ultimately lost. If you were to get pregnant, the chances at the fetus' survival is 20% at most and you will need surgery to give birth. I am sorry." Sakura felt tears piling up in her eyes, a sob left her lips. She pulled Gaara close and starting crying into his chest. He wrapped his arms around her and held her close to him. His heart was aching for her, he knew she had always wanted to be a mother, Sasuke's past came back to take that dream away from her.
Gaara noticed bright red eyes, peeking through the window of the hospital door. He paid no mind, Sasuke was partly to blame, if it weren't for him, Kabuto wouldn't hurt Sakura as a means to hurt Sasuke. He is the cause of her pain and misfortune.
Sakura's cries eventually got softer and she fell back asleep. Gaara tried to lay her back on the bed but she held onto his arm tightly, opening her eyes slightly, pleading.
"Please don't leave me. I don't want to be alone."
He couldn't say no. Tsunade raised an eyebrow but smiled. She brought a chair to Sakura's bedside for Gaara.
"Take care of her Gaara. I will let the other two in while she sleeps. If they start getting too loud, send them out. She needs her rest and I will be taking a nap for myself. Healing her has exhausted most of my chakra and dealing with Sasuke has certainly exhausted my patience."
"Thank you, Tsunade-sama. I am in debt to you for what you have done for Sakura. I just hope she will be able to recover and live her life as if nothing had happened." She merely nodded, and opened the door, allowing Naruto and Sasuke to enter.
"Sakura is resting, if you wake her up, I will give Gaara full permission to punish you as he deems fit. Do not test me." Tsunade warned, closing the door, leaving the three men and Sakura alone. Sasuke looked at Sakura, who was still clinging onto Gaara's arm as she peacefully slept.
"How is she doing Gaara? What did Tsunade-baachan say?" Naruto asked, trying to ease the tension. Gaara nodded his head once.
"Tsunade-sama stated her condition. Sakura must rest so please remain to a dull roar. If anyone wakes her up, you will be escorted out and you will not be allowed back in for a period of time, which will be set by Tsunade-sama herself."
Naruto nodded and went to Sakura's bedside, opposite of Gaara.
"Is there any lasting damage, Gaara? Is she going to be okay?" Gaara froze for a moment.
"Tsunade-sama did all that she could, there will be some ever lasting damage, including mental health. Her ability to bear children has been greatly impaired." Sasuke glared and ran over to Sakura's side, beside Gaara.
"What do you mean, impaired? She can still have children, can't she? It couldn't have been that bad, Kabuto wouldn't do that-" Sakura started stirring in her sleep, her face forming into distress.
"I suggest you lower your voice, Uchiha and let me finish explaining. Tsunade-sama did all that she could, but which the trauma, if Sakura were to ever get pregnant, the chances for fetal survival are at 20% maximum and she will not be able to deliver naturally. She will likely be set on strict bedrest throughout the duration of any pregnancy.'
Naruto felt tears fall for his friend, he fell to his knees, gripping against the bedsheet and burying his face in. Why Sakura? What did she do to deserve this? He could not imagine the physical and emotional pain she must have to endure. She was always sacrificing herself for others, when was it someone else's turn to sacrifice for her? Naruto walked out of the room and quietly shut the door behind him. He needed to walk and clear his head.
With only Sasuke and Gaara left in the room, things were awkwardly silent for a few minutes until Sasuke broke the silence.
"Why is she holding on to you so fondly? Are you trying to play a game here?" Sasuke asked bitterly. Gaara merely shook his head.
"I am here to comfort my friend, she asked me to stay so I am staying until she wakes up again and then I will leave her to you." Sasuke scowled but kept silent with the young Kazekage and his sleeping fiancé.
X
It's all my fault Sakura-sensei is like this. She gave herself to my father to save me, and he hurt her so much. There was nothing I could do. I had to watch him stab her body as he violently forced himself into her. She screamed as loud as she could until I saw him grab her underwear and wrapped it around her neck. I closed my eyes but the sound of her choking was imprinted into my mind.
She told me not to go to him, why did I not listen? If I listened to her, none of this would have happened. I'm an awful daughter. I'm an awful person. Why did I ever think I could be happy for once? Every time I am happy, something bad happens. I am a bad omen. I never should have been. I'm so sorry, Sakura-sensei.
I tightened the noose around my neck, one foot off the stool. I cried one last time until the sound of a door startled me.
"Sarada, Sarada! What are you doing? Please don't do this!" Jarusko begged me. No, I can't let him see me like this, I can't hurt him! I don't want to hurt anyone else. I tried to turn to face him and lost my footing. Pain. That is all I am. What have I done? Darkness overtook. There is no turning back, the closest I have been to the light will be in death.
"Sarada! Please wake up! Sarada!" Jarusko cut the rope with a kunai and held Sarada's now lifeless body against him, screaming for help.
X
"Sarada!" the scream echoed through the hospital. Sakura awoke immediately, nearly jumping out of her bed.
"Jarusko?!" she cried out. Sasuke grabbed Sakura, trying to pull her back into her bed.
"Sakura, get back in bed, you're hurt. You need to rest." Sakura resisted and tried to make her way out of her room. Gaara blocking the door.
"Let me go, it's Jarusko! He needs me! Something is wrong! Let me go!" Sakura was interrupted by the intercom.
"CODE PINK IN ROOM 213. CODE PINK." Sakura's demeanor dropped, and she pushed Gaara out of the way, running to room 213.
"Sakura, stop! You are going to hurt yourself!" Gaara and Sasuke called after her. She didn't care, she knew in her heart there was something wrong. She couldn't stand by. She threw herself in the room and froze at the sight.
She saw Jarusko sobbing as he held close to him Sarada, the noose still around her neck. Sakura fell to the ground beside her students, and started sobbing. She took Sarada's body and tried healing her, in denial of her fate.
"Come on Sarada, I'm here for you, don't worry, everything will be okay, I promise. I love you so much, please don't leave us, please don't!" Gaara and Sasuke walked into the room to see Sakura crying over her deceased student's corpse.
"Sakura, there's nothing you could have done." Gaara tried to speak, but Sakura ignored his words and continued pumping any chakra left in her body into her student.
"She's going to be okay, she has to be okay!" She kept repeating to herself until finally all chakra I her body ceased and she fell aside her student, holding her lifeless body to her own.
"Don't leave Sarada, please don't leave…" Sasuke just stood in the doorway, unsure of what he could do or say. Gaara turned to him.
"Get Tsunade-sama immediately." For once, he listened, leaving the scene. Jarusko was in a state of shock at this point. Witnessing his teammate take her own life. He shed his tears and now he couldn't feel anything more.
X
With much resistance, Tsunade managed to get Sakura back into her room. Sakura was talking to herself as if she were talking to Sarada. She played with her own hair, braiding it into parts.
"You're such a good girl, you're so smart Sarada-chan! You're my little girl, I love you so much." Sasuke looked to Tsunade who in turned shook her head.
"I think Sakura will need to stay here for some time, Sasuke. As good as our medics are, Sunagakure is more renowned for mental health that we are. Sakura will need to speak with a therapist 3 times a week, in one hour sessions. I will let Kakashi know to keep Sakura off active duty for at least 6 months, but it could take years for Sakura to recover physically and mentally."
Sasuke walked over to Sakura and tried to touch her until she started whimpering. He backed off.
"You have to remember, she was brutally assaulted and then witnessed her student die in front of her. She will not want anyone to be touching her, she may not even want to talk. You must be patient with her and her recovery." Sasuke backed away and walked out of the room. Tsunade looked to Gaara who simply nodded his head.
"Gaara, do you have a therapist in mind for Sakura?"
"Of course. She is young but this area of trauma is her expertise. Sakura deserves only the best treatment available. The medical bills will be on me as well, Sunagakure owes Sakura so much, this is the least we can do." Tsunade bowed to Gaara.
"Tsunade-sama, you really do not need to bow to me." She continued to bow.
"I am bowing to you because I respect you as both a leader and as Sakura's friend. I am thankful she has a friend like you supporting her any way you can. Thank you, Gaara.
X
Gaara held Sakura's hand as he guided Sakura to her therapist. Sakura was very quiet and absent minded. She sighed and stopped for a moment.
"Are you okay, Sakura?" Sakura stood stiff for a moment then regained purpose and continued walking with Gaara.
"Sakura, this is Sari-san, she is going to talk to you. Is that okay?" Sakura turned her head away, then up to the sky and started to tear up. Sari walked up to Sakura slowly and handed her a handkerchief. Sakura took it gratefully and gave her attention back to Sari.
"Thank you." Sari smiled.
"Would you like to come talk with me for a little while, Sakura?" She hesitated and then looked at Gaara.
"Can- Can Gaara come too? Will you come with me, Gaara?" Sakura clung to him. He looked at Sari then at Sakura then lightly smiled.
"If you would like me to stay with you Sakura, I will." Sakura wiped away her tears and hugged Gaara tightly and he hugged back. Sari brought them back to her office. It was very neat, nothing too extravagant but she had cool refreshments and snacks available. Sakura and Gaara sat beside each other, Gaara held Sakura's hand firmly. Sari sat down across from them and handed Sakura a bottle of water. Sakura accepted it and thanked her.
"Sakura-chan, do you have a favorite color?" Sakura thought for a moment and nodded.
"Green, green is my favorite color. Most people think it would be pink though because of my hair, but I actually cannot stand the color pink. My hair is a constant reminder." Sakura laughed to herself. Sari smiled and nodded.
"Green is a lovely color. Is there a reason why it's your favorite?"
"I think because of my country, I'm from the leaf and it's green. I think that's why at first, then I just started liking it as a color on it's own. I don't really have a valid reason." She trailed off, Sari took note.
"Well, you don't have to have a reason for liking things you do." Sakura was taken back by hat statement for some reason.
"Are you okay, Sakura-chan?" Sakura nodded her head and smiled.
"Sakura-chan, are you and Gaara good friends?" You both seem very close" Sakura smiled and held onto Gaara's arm tightly.
"He is one of my very best friends. Whenever I'm sad, I know that he will be there for me, emotionally. I know being emotional can be a sign of weakness, but Gaara treats me the same through weakness and strength. I couldn't ask for a better friend than Gaara." Gaara forced to keep a blush suppressed. He enjoyed being there for Sakura, as she had been there for him through his own moments of weakness.
"That is wonderful to hear, Sakura-chan. I see you have a ring on your finger, are you married?" Sakura looked at her ring and grew silent.
"Sasuke-kun…" it was as if she were put in a trance. She almost instantly snapped out of it.
"Oh, no. I'm engaged right now, to Sasuke Uchiha. We were going to get married last spring but my parents passed away and I asked that we put our wedding on hold." Sari nodded, noting all responses in her notebook.
"Was he okay with putting your wedding on hold?" she shook her head.
"Not really, but he accepted it. He isn't very good at expressing his emotions yet." Sakura sighed and involuntarily moved her hand to her cheek. Gaara and Sari both noticed her unusual response. They didn't question it yet, it may be something to dig into later down the road.
"I see. Was he urgent to start creating a family?" Sakura's grip on Gaara tightened, almost unbearable. Sakura started breathing heavily to avoid any tears escaping but to no avail.
"He was and now I can never give it to him… what use am I to him now?" Sakura stated bitterly. 'Children are a trigger' Sari thought to herself before writing it down.
"Sasuke must love you more as a partner than someone who can give him children-"
"That is what he wanted from the start and I was the only one he deemed worthy enough, what now? I am about as useless as I was from the start. I try to sacrifice so much and it was all for nothing! I feel like my entire existence was based off of pleasing Sasuke and I can't even do that right… what use am I now?" Sakura was crying against Gaara again. He was unaware that Sakura felt this way.
Gaara felt angry that Sakura felt so much self resentment because of Sasuke. Always Sasuke.
Sakura eventually calmed down, with help from both Sari and Gaara. Sakura laid on the couch, closed her eyes and fell asleep. Sari brought out a light blanket and placed it over Sakura.
"So, what are you thinking, Sari?" she sifted through her notes.
"There is pre existing trauma, not even related to her most recent trauma. It seems that it was just a catalyst to a whole can of worms within Sakura's sub conscious. It will take some time, but I am sure she will be able to recover nicely if she keeps talking everything out. She seems to have a history of self loathing and bottling up her feelings which you, of all people, know is not a good thing. She just needs time, love, and patience. All of which, I know you are capable of providing, Gaara-sama." She bowed respectfully.
"Thank you for your hard work, Sari-san." Gaara lifted up Sakura's sleeping form, carrying her bridal style. Whilst in her sleep, she wrapped her arms around Gaara's neck.
"Gaara…" she murmured. He looked down at her and kissed her forehead. His feelings were undeniable, but he will not come between Sakura and Sasuke, unless Sakura were to come to him. For now, he will hold these feelings to himself. He will love her in silent, and comfort her as the friend she admires. Maybe one day, his love will be returned.
X
Author note: oh wow, I actually hit the 10k mark. Seeing how hard and time consuming it was, I am unsure if all chapters will be 10k. It will depend on the content of the chapter and how inspired I feel. Also to clear something up. For my story, Sari is a ninja and a therapist. Her backstory will come in the next chapter. Anyways, please review! It really inspires me to write more when I know I have an audience reading. Thank you all!
Miyaka Hana
Ps. I have a poll on my profile page, if y'all could give me some feedback, that would be great!
