Part I: The Prelude to the Concluding War
Chapter 11: Konoha's Will of Fire
Sakura finally put the finishing touches of the dressings that were snugly wrapped around Rin's torso. She wiped sweat from her forehead and sat back for a little while to admire her work. She couldn't help but be grateful for her years of hard training from Tsunade – sama. She then made a careful note to check the dressing every two hours in case it would soil due to bleeding.
"Is it finished?" the woman she was treating asked. Sakura gave her a small smile as she began putting her supplies inside her medical bag.
"Hai."
Rin sighed as she put her clothes back on, leaning back against the headboard and savoring the rough digging of the wood on her backside. She cast a glance at the pink – haired kunoichi who was in the process of packing away her medical equipment. She suddenly saw herself in Sakura's shoes --- a bright – eyed, diligent medical ninja of the Fourth Hokage's team. She then decided to strike a conversation in order to create a bond with this newfound colleague of hers.
"You're Kakashi's student, am I right?"
Sakura's green eyes were off – guard when she finished zipping up her bag. "You knew Kakashi – sensei?"
Rin smiled. "He was once my teammate along with the Fourth Hokage and…" her smile grew bitter. "…Obito."
Luckily Sakura didn't notice her grim expression. In fact, she was curious that the woman Kakashi rescued from the mountain was a former comrade of his. "What was Kakashi – sensei like? Was he always late whenever you have your missions?" She then added as an afterthought. "Was he reading…uh…books that have high mature content?" She blushed when she realized she said it a bit too loud.
Rin chuckled softly at the numerous inquiries about Kakashi's behavior. His current behavior was far more different from what he was used to be. 'The times sure have changed…' she mused. 'Or maybe it hasn't…' She fingered her brown tresses afterwards, took a deep breath.
"Kakashi…" she began. "He's different from what you currently perceive of him. When we were young, he was the embodiment of a strict elite --- prompt, formal, strict and knows all the shinobi ways." She laced her fingers together as she grinned at Sakura's shocked look. "He came from a very prestigious family. His father was…a respectable shinobi. He was known as "Konoha's White Fang" because of the white bladed – sword he uses in battle." Her brown eyes went serious at the remembrance of Kakashi's father. "I wonder if Kakashi still held on to his father's heirloom…"
"Anou, Rin – san," Sakura asked tentatively. Rin looked at her with an inquisitive expression. The young medical specialist absentmindedly played with the hem of skirt, avoiding her gaze. Blush heavily covered her cheeks when she remembered her past trifle with her sensei a few days in celebration of Naruto's special mission. She wholly admitted to Kakashi that it was her fault that she got drunk and innocently seduced him --- if it weren't for a certain dark – haired boy with obsidian eyes that was haunting her dreams for the past five years.
She brushed the memory off of her head then focused her gaze at Rin. She put on the façade she had kept throughout the years to hide her true self. "Tell me more about your teammates, Rin – san. What about the Fourth Hokage? What was he like when he was with you?"
Rin closed her eyes as she tried to reminisce a distant memory. "The Fourth Hokage was a genius. He always guided us; He was one of the brilliant shinobis during the war."
She opened her eyes then grimaced when the memories of the previous events flooded through her mind. No. Everything was what the Yondaime – sama had wished. There would be no regrets. Everything was done for the future of Konoha.
Sakura noticed Rin's sudden detachment, so she decided to change the topic. "What about your other teammate, Rin – san? What was his name…? I think it was…Obito – san."
Rin was taken aback at Sakura's words. She had never thought of her long departed comrade. Hearing his name, even recalling it brought ache and anguish on her part. "Obito? Hmm…actually, he was the exact opposite of Kakashi when were young. He was always tardy, used excuses and didn't mind the rules of the shinobi --- all in all he was a total idler."
Sakura clapped her hands together in understanding. "He's the same person like the current Kakashi – sensei! But," she crossed her arms as she tried to distinguish her current sensei from the former one. "What made Kakashi – sensei suddenly change his ways?"
Rin shrugged. "You should probably ask him about that." It would be very painful if I'll be the one to tell her about it… Painful memories are buried deep inside the inner recesses of the heart. Reawakening them…would only bring more pain and grief… Especially since Obito's keepsake was kept by Kakashi…
"Do you know the story behind Kakashi's left eye?" she asked all of a sudden. Sakura's left hand began to twitch when she abruptly remembered why Kakashi was known as the copy ninja because he possessed 'that' eye.
The Sharingan.
The pink haired kunoichi's brows furrowed when she suddenly remembered a certain clan who once known to have possessed that type of eye. She cringed as soon as a familiar memory jolted her thoughts. Her fists curled into balls and her back went rigid.
Perceiving Sakura's silence was somewhat interesting, Rin decided to pursue the topic. She knew that aside from Kakashi, there was another person from his team who possessed the same bloodline as Obito once had. The distinguished Uchiha clan of Konoha was worldly known for its tragedies --- first was Obito's death and the next was their downfall. Killed by their most powerful prodigy. She heard news that the lone member of the clan joined Orochimaru as his subordinate and in the end disappeared after the war between Oto no Sato and Konoha.
She somewhat had a vague idea that the pink – haired medic might have some fascinating involvement with the clan's sole survivor. In Sakura's eyes even though concealed by its dullness, showed underlying affection for the estranged young Uchiha heir who unwittingly sided with the Snake – wielding Sannin --- Orochimaru. To pursue retribution against his older brother who pitilessly massacred their family.
Truly, demise had fallen for the once noble clan.
Rin couldn't help but chuckle quietly. She knew more about the inner plight in Kakashi's team. One was branded an outcast because of a monster sealed inside him. The other was filled with hatred and a seeker of vengeance. And the other was a persevering kunoichi who wanted nothing except acknowledgement from the one she loved throughout the years.
She was seeing more and more of herself in Sakura's shoes. 'But…' her expression grew stern. 'If I didn't cause burden to Kakashi and Obito at that time… Then he wouldn't have…' Her fist clenched unexpectedly at the rush of memories. She then decided to let them flow all the way through her, and after a few minutes of recalling, she calmed herself down. She let her eyes wander through Sakura's trembling form.
"Sakura – chan," she said gently, noticing the look of shock marring Sakura's features. "Kakashi's left eye…it was Obito's. It was his parting gift to Kakashi when we…" she faltered but then continued. "…When we had an intercepting mission with the Fourth Hokage. At that time, it was Kakashi's first mission as a jounin but there were certain fatalities…" She wiped tears from her eyes as she stared at the ceiling. "Obito was crushed under a huge rock that fell above us. He pushed me out of the way and then he…" The tears eventually started to fall. "…He died."
Sakura felt her heart breaking as she watched Rin crying out her agonizing memories of the past. In point of fact, she was also the same as her, blindly reaching out for a man that was far beyond her grasp. She knew Sasuke made it clear that he never needed anyone and what he did to himself was no one else's business. She now had a nagging question inside her head to ask Rin whether Obito was also driven with the same path of vengeance as Sasuke's.
The door to Rin's room opened and both women turned around to see Kakashi let himself inside. Sakura immediately stood up from her chair and grabbed her bag, understanding that her sensei needed some time alone with his former teammate. She lowered her head in respect first to Rin before walking steadily to her sensei. She bowed again and finally left the room. Kakashi sank himself into the chair Sakura left unoccupied and faced Rin with his hand held up in greeting.
"Yo." He greeted.
She answered it with a brief nod.
Kakashi settled himself comfortably in his seat. It had been a long time since they last saw each other since Obito and the Fourth Hokage's death. The next thing he found out was that she undoubtedly disappeared the following day, without a note or a lead to where she'd be headed.
And now.
"Rin," he began but she didn't make any move to look up at him. He clasped his fingers together and placed it on his lap. He regarded her with an inquiring gaze. "How did you end up being sensei's watchman?"
She didn't answer. Kakashi pushed his chair forward and leaned closely on the side of her bed. His uncovered eye was filled with importance. "Okay, next question. Why did you hide from me during those past few years?"
Rin returned his gaze with a stony look. "I didn't hide from you, Kakashi. Sensei entrusted me a mission of luring his son up to Shidareyanagi when he reaches his coming of age years ago. I already explained that reason to you hundreds of times for the past few days."
"Then why did you leave without telling me? I thought…" he faltered, unsure of his words. "…I thought we were a team."
Rin laughed. "A team? Goodness, Kakashi – kun. Don't tell me you're still wrapped up with that philosophy until you became a jounin instructor at this age."
There was slight accusing note in her tone but he reminded himself not to be affected by her words. Time constantly changes people --- he never knew what Rin had undergone before he finally met her at Shidareyanagi. What was most surprising was that she never used her medical jutsus to heal herself when he wounded her in her abdomen during their last fight. Did she really give up her ties with her home village and her duty as a shinobi?
Still, Kakashi craved a sliver of warmth from her, even a tiniest bit. He never expected her to give him the cold shoulder --- even if he didn't know what his fault was. Her brown tresses hung loosely around her shoulders with her face wearing a deep frown. He sighed. Maybe talking about the old times would be risky at this point…or maybe, being alone with her would be a big mistake.
Rin finally looked at him, an intrigue expression on her face. "Ne, Kakashi."
"Nani?"
To his astonishment, she smiled. Although it was a calm smile, it was already close for his comfort. He was about more or less submerged in his chair due to gloominess when silence draped around them like a black curtain. Rin broke her cover at the same time reverted to her usual self when they were young as she tapped her chin thoughtfully. "That student of yours…I'm quite captivated."
Kakashi only blinked in confusion. "Naruto?"
She glared at him. "No. I meant the other one. I think her name was Sakura, that very talented pink – haired student of yours. I'm somewhat surprised that you didn't tell your team about…the mystery behind your eye." When he failed to answer, she sighed then leaned further against the headboard. "I heard that that boy from the Uchiha clan was put in your group by Sandaime - sama. Didn't he have any suspicions before why you also have one of their bloodline limit?"
Kakashi drew a deep breath. "No. My team was not even interested in tattletale. Those don't trudge on someone else's seclusion. And that boy you're talking about," his expression gloomy. "He's already dead."
Silence engulfed Rin for a few minutes. Letting the news sink inside her brain. "I see."
"Rin," he began. He needed to make things clear with her before they return to Konoha. He had a gut feeling that she would not come back with them, and it would even be useless to convince her to go with them anyways. Summoning up his courage, he gazed at her still serene face.
"I…I want to talk about Obito. And all of the things that had occurred after your disappearance."
He held the picture in his hands tightly as if it was a valuable keepsake. Well, it was, for him. His father was Kakashi's sensei during his genin days and most likely been trained by him. He couldn't help but feel proud of his father. Kakashi – sensei was an outstanding ninja; he taught them various things --- from tree climbing to valuing teamwork. Naruto wiped another onset of tears away from his face as he stared at the picture again.
His father looked so jovial. Unlike the person he met last time.
The person he had come to know as his father bore the look of angst and exhaustion. Never had he seen a more troubled and tormented face before him. He'd always thought that his face was the only one who possessed those expressions.
"Naruto?"
His gaze softened when he instantly recognized Sakura's voice. He looked up at her with a comical grin despite the ache his heart was experiencing. "Sakura – chan."
His teammate closed the door behind her then went to sit on his bedside, her head cocked to one side. "How are you feeling?" he heard her ask. He made a quick movement with his hand, indicating that he was all right. She heaved a sigh then smiled at him. "That's good."
Minutes passed and they enjoyed each other's company in stillness. Naruto gazed longingly at his teammate whom he loved throughout the years. He thought about confessing to her right then and there, but the memories of his tragic family were still affecting him. Now was not the time to think of his personal matters. His father…and Kakashi – sensei, even the entire Konoha were depending on his decision.
But now, he didn't want to become the Fifth's successor. Not after witnessing what his father had undergone during his brief time as Hokage…
"Sakura – chan."
"Hm?"
He laced his fingers together. "What are we going to do when we go back to Konoha?"
Sakura tapped her fingers in deep thought. "Hmm, maybe we'll have a nice long rest and lots of food. Knowing you, Naruto, you'll probably head straight down to Ichiraku and devour your favorite pork ramen."
He laughed at her answer then leaned back on his pillows gratefully, its softness easing his worries bit by bit. "Yeah, maybe I'll do that when we get home."
His teammate began to feel queasy. It seems that Naruto was acting a bit strange, she couldn't put a finger where. Her green eyes crinkled with confusion, she decided to ask. "Naruto…is something wrong?" When her teammate didn't say anything, she prodded. "I could sense that there must be something that's troubling you. If you don't want to tell me, it's okay but…" She smiled kindly. "I'm feeling kind of weird…in seeing you like this."
Naruto gave a ghostly imitation of a smile. "Gomenasai, Sakura – chan. It's just that…I have lots of things to think about." He stared at the still dark sky outside his window. "Many things happened during the past three days…I don't know if you will believe me. But, I finally grasped the true essence of the mission Tsunade – obachan bestowed on me."
Sakura played with the hem of her skirt as she waited for Naruto to continue. "And what is that?"
Blue eyes hardened with seriousness stared blankly at her. "They want me to become the next Hokage after Tsunade – obachan steps down from her position." Naruto crossed his arms then added, "Kakashi – sensei and otosan wanted me to accept the position, but I don't see why I should do it or not."
"Kakashi – sensei? And did you say your otosan? Where is he now? Is he still here in Stone country?" Sakura asked in disbelief. Naruto's news shocked her. He finally met his true parents! That was good news! But, seeing that her teammate was filled with depression, she suddenly doubted the unexpected reunion. She began to wonder. What could have happened back there at the mountain?
"He's already dead, Sakura – chan. He 's long dead ever since he sealed the Kyuubi inside my body," Naruto offered weakly as an answer to all of her inquiries. "I only saw him by the means of a summoning technique. I couldn't even hold him because he was in astral form."
Sakura still had the look of surprise on her face but was quickly replaced with happiness. "It's still all right! That's nice! So what happened next? What's he like? Did he recognize you? What did you do?"
Naruto held up a restraining hand. "Whoa. Easy with the questions, Sakura – chan." When Sakura pouted then clamped her mouth shut, he chuckled then eased himself more in his pillows. "Yes, I've met him but…there were some things that didn't went well. Like when he forced me to fight him, in order to find out if I'm worthy of my existence. And there's also the revealing of his true intentions with me. All in all, I appreciated his effort of telling me who he was but…" His blue eyes darkened when he remembered how the Fourth's astral body disappeared in front of his eyes. "…It was a very abrupt reunion. Very brief, I tell you."
Sakura placed a comforting hand of top of his. "I'm very sorry, Naruto. I never thought that it would bring you such painful memories." When he gave her hand a squeeze indicating he was okay, she smiled. "What happened next?"
Naruto sighed. "Well, after that I collapsed on the mountain and in the end woke up seeing Kakashi – sensei's perverted face. He also told me that he knew my father since he was a genin. Would you believe it? My father was his sensei at that time." He handed her Kakashi's class picture.
She flipped the photo over then scanned the contents. Her eyes widened. "Sensei…you mean, Kakashi – sensei's mentor…and your father… Could this mean that this guy in the picture is…"
"Yup. My father."
She almost crumpled the picture in astonishment. "But…this…this man… He's the Fourth Hokage! The hero who saved Konoha from the Kyuubi! How did…how did he…"
Naruto snorted as if it was nothing new to him. "…He ended up being my father? Long story Sakura – chan. In truth, he revealed to me some of his memories back then after the fight…and some of them were too sappy, I don't want to find out at all."
Sakura waved her arms in protest. "Yeah, but still! I couldn't believe this! Your dad's the Fourth? Oh my…then how did you manage to grasp the truth? Wow! Aren't you glad that your otosan's THE FOURTH HOKAGE?"
The young Kyuubi heir's face went solemn. "Yes…and No. I was surprised that my childhood hero and my father were one and the same. Upon finding out all the hardships he had gone through when he was still Hokage…" Naruto heaved a breath. "…I realized now that being a Hokage…is truly a big sacrifice. You tend to choose defending the village other than your family and your loved ones. It's a cruel choice."
"But being Hokage, being acknowledged by everyone in the village is your dream," Sakura reminded him. "Isn't that what you've always wanted since we were young?"
His next reaction was unpredictable. "But I don't want to end up being a string puppet deliberately tied down to that cause! It's unreasonable! Look at what it did to my father! He chose his responsibilities over my mother and me! Even if it would cost his family to break apart!" Naruto spat out, his fist slamming down on the bedside table. Sakura didn't flinch after seeing his reaction, not one bit. She placed her hand again on Naruto's bruising knuckles, her green chakra firing up again, healing his wounds.
"Being Hokage," she began and felt Naruto's hand tense up against hers. She tried again. "Being Hokage…yes, it's an ultimate sacrifice for the entire village. There are…lots of things that you'll gain…and lose all at the same time." Even when Naruto's wounds were healed, she still didn't let go of his hand. "I became a medical ninja not because I was forced to…but because it was my choice. I never wanted to become a burden to you and our team. I…I wanted all of you to think of me as an equal, I wanted you to acknowledge me as well."
Naruto was speechless. He, by no means expected Sakura, his Sakura – chan to confide in him except when it usually involved about their other comrade. And that was few years ago. Before their other teammate left them for power. "Sakura – chan…"
She smiled faintly. "I know. It's kind of strange, huh?"
He shook his head. "No. Not really. I never thought of you with any inferiority complex, Sakura – chan. You're much more brilliant than I am."
Sakura gave him a steady gaze. "But I can't move people's hearts as you do. Don't you see, Naruto?" She firmly squeezed his hand then released it. "You possess all of the rightful qualities as Tsunade – shishou's successor. You are fit to become the next Hokage."
Naruto avoided her look. "Sakura – chan, I'm not. I can't…I can't be like you or Kakashi – sensei. I can't become the person you want me to be…"
"This isn't about Kakashi – sensei and me!" Sakura exclaimed heatedly. She placed her hands on either side of Naruto's shoulders. "Look at me, Naruto! This is about you! We're not the ones who're controlling your life! It's you! It's you who's in control of your own body! And also of your mind…and your heart!" When he didn't respond, she let loose of her hold on his shoulders causing him to slump back against the pillows.
She sighed in exasperation. She could not convince him. 'What if I'll ask Kakashi for help? No. I think Kakashi already done his part. We can't go home if Naruto is still like this. The people are expecting a new successor…' She closed her eyes as if summoning a distant memory. 'What would 'he' do in this state…?'
Still, she had to. She had to try her best to convince him, even if it would take her for years. Konoha…and his future were at stake. Slowly, she cupped his cheeks then tilted his face up to look at her. She let an intake of breath when she saw the loneliness in his deep blue eyes, all the sadness, and the agony. Even the disappointment was clearly evident. She swallowed inwardly.
…………
She spoke softly as if she was a mother consoling her child. "Naruto, I know…it hurts that you never got to spend time with your father, or even know him at all. I know it pains you to find out that the Fourth chose his responsibility over you and your mother for the sake of the village. But Naruto, do you even understand the underlying reason why your father chose that option?"
He remained still, his shoulders shaking. Sakura patted his head and continued. "He believed the whole of Konoha was also an integral part of his family. Friends, enemies, acquaintances, every person that he met, loved or hated, as his most important people. Just like you and your mother. If he didn't protected Konoha from the Kyuubi, Kakashi – sensei, Iruka – sensei, Tsunade – shishou, Jiraiya – sama, everyone including myself would cease to exist."
"I – I don't know, Sakura – chan," he finally blurted out, his expression tainted with misery. "I don't know what to do at all."
She shook her head no. "You're wrong. You've always known all along what you want to do with your life but you're just too indecisive to make it happen. What you're grieving for…are all in the past. We can't change it. No one can. But, we can do something about it."
Blue eyes filled with curiosity stared at her. "And what are we going to do about it, Sakura – chan?"
"Not 'we' Naruto. YOU." Sakura blinked back tears as she smiled at him, grateful that she finally got his attention. "You can prevent the past from happening again by following what's in your heart. What do you really want in life, Naruto? When you last spoke with your otosan, did he even mention his wish, his dream about you? What is it that you've always wanted to do since you were little? What made you come here?"
"I…" He couldn't answer all of her questions. Every question, every inquiry…was all the same. The last time he heard those kinds of questions was when he fought his father in an all – out war. Yes, his otosan told him of his wish but it made him reconsider. He was suddenly afraid of his life, of his future. Then after that, Kakashi – sensei pointed out the similarities between the obligations of the Hokage and the ordinary shinobi. As he found out, they were acrimoniously similar.
And now…
He could not argue with Sakura. Every point she made, every contradiction, they were all true. In the end, he was mortifyingly wrong at everything. He was blinded by his depression that he didn't see what was beyond of him. He allowed himself to be shadowed by the darkness that he didn't perceive the light that was shining above him, waiting for him to take notice. He allowed his weakness to take over that he didn't understand what his father and sensei were implying to him.
It wasn't about his otosan and sensei.
It wasn't about the long forgotten past.
It was about his future.
His.
…………
Realization hit upon him like cold water purposely splashed upon his face. The dim glow in his blue eyes vanished; and they were quickly restored to their bright sheen. The gloomy aura that hung around him dissipated, and his dark countenance slowly lit up. Grateful for his sudden restoration of character, he grabbed his quivering teammate by her shoulders and pulled her to him. Sakura's eyes went wide at his change of behavior, wondering if she had finally gotten to him at all.
Naruto's voice was hushed. "You're right… Arigatou, Sakura – chan. I'm grateful…for slapping those words onto my face. You made me think…of some important things," he whispered against her hair. He ran his fingers on her short silky tresses. "Arigatou. I'm going to be all right now."
She pulled away from him gently, smiling at his response. She respected his decision of having his space. After giving him a warm hug, she stood up from his bedside then eventually went out of his room.
Naruto watched his closed door for several minutes before gingerly climbing out of his bed to lean against the windowsill. After getting himself comfortable, he pulled out the small red pouch his father gave him inside his pocket. With careful hands, he examined the small velvet pouch and leisurely fingered the shape of a spiral that was embroidered on the cloth.
His family crest.
He untied the strings which closed the bag altogether then turned it upside down, letting the object inside to fall out. There was a tinkling sound and Naruto held it above his eye level to scrutinize it closely. If he was not mistaken, it was an heirloom. It was a precious keepsake that his father kept for several years before passing it over to him. His son.
He suddenly had a feeling that he was not worthy of such a wonderful gift.
He curled his hand into a fist with the memento inside. His father's words plagued him again and again as if it were played countless of times in a tape recorder.
…………
Please, become the next Hokage. In my heart, I know that you are competent enough to protect our village…
I loved your mother you know…
I though that…if I didn't chose my responsibilities over her…and if I didn't leave the both of you alone by that time the Demon Fox attacked our village…she would still be alive. And I…I could still hold you in my arms…
Naruto…
Become the next Hokage. Do this for yourself, for your mother and I. She…she will be proud of you…
Arigatou, Naruto. We'll meet again. Not until you accomplished your entire life as a Hokage. Your mother and I will be waiting for you on the other side. Sayonara…
…………
"Oto – chan…" he whispered softly, tears began streaming down his face. He clutched his father's keepsake as he rocked his trembling form again and again, letting the sad memories wash though him. "Oto – chan…what should I do? I'm afraid…I'm afraid of what lies beyond of me…I don't know…they want me to accept the position as Hokage…but…why does it have to be me in the first place?"
You being a Hokage…was the Yondaime, no, my sensei's lifelong dream. If you…his son, his only legacy…can't do it then no one can.
His tears continued their downpour on his cheeks. "Kakashi – sensei…"
…………
"Do you know why we are wearing this forehead protector?" Kakashi once asked him.
"Because we've graduated as genins?"
"No." Kakashi shook his head. "It means that in every person, there lies a will of fire that burns within our hearts. It shows love, passion, desire, determination, courage, strength and the determination to protect those we love. As we wear this protector on our foreheads, we are chosen by the higher powers to look after our friends, family, everyone in our village from those who want to harm them. Do you understand me, Naruto?" His student looked confused but nodded anyway.
"Under this forehead protector, lie certain responsibilities that us shinobis must achieve for the safety of our village. Truth be told, those responsibilities are also the same of those of the Hokage's. Now may I ask you, what difference will it make? Is being a Hokage tedious than those of the normal shinobis? Because," Kakashi explained then he grew stern. "If you're afraid of taking up the responsibilities of the Hokage then you're not fit to become a shinobi. Regardless of what rank you are in."
Naruto's blue eyes widened at the realization. Kakashi raked a hand through his unruly hair then placed it on top of his student's shoulder. "The Hokage is also the same as any ordinary shinobi. The Hokage protects the same loved ones as the ordinary shinobi. The Hokage ensures the safety of the village just like an ordinary shinobi. It's just like the Hokage is the one who motivates the other shinobis to work together to achieve the same dream. That's why we have Hokages over the past generations, the will of fire that moves others. That's why you are apt to be a Hokage. You possess the same will as the previous Hokages once had. As your father once had."
…………
The will of fire.
Konoha's will of fire…was inside him.
The same will of fire as his father and his sensei once had.
The same flame that flickered his determination to protect those he loved aside from the Kyuubi.
Now…everything made sense.
He finally knew what he'd always wanted all along.
And that was to…
"I see…so from this point on, it's going to be all up to him now."
"Hai. I'm positively sure that he will be giving us an answer soon."
Kakashi crossed his arms as he leaned against the wall. "It wouldn't be long and Konoha would at last have a new Hokage. The elders and Godaime – sama would be thrilled."
Sakura smiled as she propped her elbows on the balcony. "They will. And Konoha shall prosper once again. All will be well."
"Probably." In reality, he didn't have a clue if Naruto would have a grasp on his brand new identity. It would take him months or maybe years to learn the quirks and regulations of how to become a Hokage. Well, add his hyperactive student's five – seconds attention span and everything would end up in chaos. But once Naruto should end up as Tsunade's successor, then everything would be fine. However, his position could be the turning point for some events that should eventually happen once he becomes the Sixth Hokage.
There were still underlying feuds in some small countries that need serious negotiations. Also the formulation of ready – made plans in case of an upcoming war and emergency procedures for the people to lessen casualties. And don't forget the dozen piles of paperwork to sign on, and handling out missions for ranked shinobis particularly the genins that whined if a class – D mission was awarded to them. All in all, it would prove more of a challenge to Naruto's easygoing behavior.
And there were still the ongoing threats of the Akatsuki and the still resuming investigation of fatalities brought by the previous war between Konoha and Oto no Sato. They still need proof that the once legendary Snake Sannin known as Orochimaru had been completely obliterated along with his minions.
And yes, they still have yet to solve Uchiha Sasuke's unexplained death.
Kakashi yawned out of boredom as he rubbed the incoming sleep from his eyes. He cast a glance at his female student as she watched the dark sky from her perch. He then remembered his own female teammate and winced at the cold shoulder he received from her. He let his mind wander to the time he asked her about her disappearance years ago…
Rin was crying when she told him the reason. It was too much for him to bear. "After Obito's death…I decided right then and there that I was incapable of becoming a shinobi. I don't want others to die because of me; I can't bear it! Every night, I've always dreamed of Obito pleading to me for help, I simply can't…I simply can't move on without his memories of that mission haunting my mind and my sanity!"
It took huge amounts of willpower for Kakashi to try and comfort her. He suddenly became clueless in analyzing a woman's feelings, regardless of the countless chapters he read in the "Icha Icha Paradise" series. He reached out to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear, and she blinked back in surprise. He smiled behind his mask. He then moved his hand upwards to wipe the tears away from her face. "Don't cry. It's not like you," he soothed her.
She didn't respond much, but the shaking of her shoulders told him otherwise. Well, he really was hopeless in understanding the opposite sex. But one thing made itself clear inside his brain. Rin wasn't able to move on because of Obito's sudden death. And for their sensei…everything happened so fast. Even he, known as the tensai, could not return things back to normal. Even he was powerless at that time when the explosion happened above them and Obito pushed Rin out of the way to avoid getting crushed by the rock that brought him his ill-timed death.
When he woke up into his sensei's worried face, he almost lied to himself that everything was a dream. But seeing that Obito was no longer present and there with them…he almost wished that 'he' should've been the one who died and not him.
…………
"It was unfortunate…but I'm sure that he's relieved that you and Rin are safe," his sensei told him when he awoke from his unconsciousness and they were resting on top of a flat rock. He then felt a slight stinging in his left eye. Then the memories started to return back to him.
…………
There was Obito, lying in the pool of his own blood, the huge rock brutally pinned his body in half, leaving his left side exposed to his teammates' eyes. The uncrushed half of his body jerked uncontrollably, fine nerve endings signaling extreme pain. Kakashi sat there helplessly at the sight of his comrade sacrificed his life and limb to save them and to complete their mission.
For once, he finally learned how to care.
"Obito! Don't worry! I'll get you out!" he shouted, scrambling to get near Obito. Rin shuddered in her place, tears running down her cheeks. At last, Kakashi gripped the large piece of rock that pinned the half Obito's body. With trembling fingers, he did his best to heave the rock despite its massive size. Obito flinched then crystal rivers paved his exposed face, bearing in mind that Kakashi finally understood the meaning of teamwork --- that it would be meaningless if one does not learn to value his friends. Another thought passed through his mind that he could never tell Rin what he felt, and he understood that her heart already belonged to someone else's.
He was running out of time. Centering his blurry vision to Rin, he called out to her. "Rin, I…have one…favor to ask of…you." Rin crawled closer to him, bending down so that her ear was inches close to his face. "I want…you…to transfer my left eye to Kakashi…"
Kakashi blinked his uninjured eye at what he heard. Rin's face was unreadable. "What are you talking about, Obito! Why are you doing this? You're not going to die! Don't ask me to do such a thing to you!"
Obito's face turned placid. "There is not enough time! Please do it, as my last request." Turning to Kakashi, he gave a half smirk. "Looks like my present to you ended up a bit late after all…"
"What are you talking about, Obito! Surely you don't mean that…"
"I'm sorry…but I'm going ahead of you, Kakashi. My condition…is beyond healing. I have no other choice but to go. Rin, hurry!"
"No! Like what Rin said, we're not going to leave you alone! We'll get you out of here!" Kakashi protested as he tried to heave the rock pinning Obito's body one more time. Rin watched Kakashi through her blurry vision, a decision formed inside her mind. Wiping away stray tears, she drew in a deep breath.
"Kakashi! Move closer to me so I can start the operation!"
And before he knew it, Obito's eye became his and the two were suddenly formed into one.
…………
Kakashi stared at his former comrade, seeing the look of pure anguish on her face. They've wasted so many years in atonement and endless wandering; they never even gave themselves a chance to enjoy the peace. Sighing inwardly, he curled his palms into fists then placed them upon his lap. After mustering enough courage, he looked back at her.
"Rin," he began. She didn't look at him. "When the time comes…and we'll leave for Konoha… I… I want you to come home with us."
She didn't answer. She averted her hazel eyes towards the ceiling, her expression languid. "Why would I do that, Kakashi? In case you didn't notice, I'm already a missing – nin. I may be put to death because of treason and worse, I may never see sunlight if I'm to be put behind bars. You of all people should now that. It's in the rules."
"I don't care about the rules. All I want is for you to be with us to celebrate Naruto's success in his mission. I'm sure Tsunade – sama would reconsider and who knows? She may give you a pardon once she finds out you're sensei's watchman of his very last memorial," Kakashi protested, refusing to give in.
Rin gave a small chuckle at Kakashi's headstrongness. "Kakashi, it's never going to be easy. I've been away from Konoha for years. What makes you think that Tsunade – sama would reconsider? And besides, didn't you remember? I deliberately put Naruto's life in danger. I'm never going to be forgiven for that."
"That may be so. But," Kakashi cast her an unyielding glance. "That was what sensei wished. That was no longer in your hands. Stop tormenting yourself when it wasn't really your fault in the first place." He reached out to her and encased her hands in his. He placed their hands on either side of his face, feeling her calloused hands scratching the surface of his cheeks. "Let go of the past and move on to the future. With me."
She was speechless. "Kakashi… I…"
He stood up, understanding she needed time to think. After giving her a guarded look, he grasped the knob then paused. "I'm not going to rush things. I finally understand that it's now time for us to let go of Obito and sensei's memory. We can't move on with our lives if the past still continues to hound us. I… I'm sure, Obito does not wish for us to have that… Not even for you."
She didn't answer back, even after he left the room.
Kakashi let out an insufferable sigh as he leaned back against the door. Even he could not convince Rin to return to Konoha with him. "Well, this was almost close as a reunion anyway…" he said to himself.
"Kakashi – sensei."
He craned his head sideways and his exposed eye widened a bit. Naruto was standing on the other side of the hallway, his expression serious. He pushed himself out of the door then faced his student. "Naruto."
His student walked intentionally towards him, shoulders straight. Out of the blue, he noticed that Naruto more or less reached his height, his blond head inches closer to his shoulder level. He unexpectedly had an urge to cry. 'My children are beginning to grow up like mature adults,' he dejectedly thought. 'No wonder sensei was so proud of him when he finally saw him after a few years…'
"Sensei." Naruto's voice broke his musings. Kakashi replied with a nod of his head. His young student clenched his fists as he come up with something to say. Finally, Naruto took in a deep breath then stared at Kakashi with solemnity.
"I'm ready to take over my father's…no…all of Konoha's will as the next Hokage."
They spent another two days in the Stone Country for further recovery of their wounds. And then finally, morning came and the time has come for them to leave for Konoha.
Naruto adjusted his forehead protector, casting one last glance around the room that enclosed all of his thoughts and dithering. Slinging his bag over his shoulder, he fingered his father's keepsake that hung around his neck. It was nestled next to Tsunade's cursed necklace, the past memories wrapped inside them intertwining together and forming a single bond.
'A bond that will never be broken,' was his last thought as he left the room to regroup with the others.
…………
"Well, looks like everyone is here," Kakashi announced as he saw Naruto dashing towards them. He stole a glance at the window of the room where Rin was then sighed. So, she wasn't going to come with them after all. 'If that's what Rin wants, then I don't have the power to change her mind,' he sadly thought.
"So, sensei, what are we going to do? I already forgot the directions back to Konoha. And the journey from Shidareyanagi would take another week. What should we do?" Sakura asked.
Naruto crossed his arms in front of his chest. "And I even lost the map Tsunade – Obachan gave me! I think that one got destroyed when I fought with Otousan back then."
Kakashi ran a hand through his silver locks. "Uh – oh. Well, Minna – san, we have no other choice. We'll take the long route, even if it kills us."
"NO WAY!" his former students screamed in unison.
"Perhaps I can help."
The three of them whirled their heads to see Rin standing behind them. Her long russet hair was cut down into a desirable length and now swayed behind her shoulders. Her chocolate brown eyes no longer held any trace of agony --- it was now replaced with a small flicker of warmth resting underneath those irises of hers. Her mouth was curved into a smirk and a small tote bag was swinging behind her right shoulder. "I know a shortcut that will enable us to reach Konohagakure in three days. How's that?"
Naruto whooped in glee. "Whee! Thank you 'nechan! Uh… and who might you be if it's all right with you?"
"I'm Rin. Nice to meet you." She held out her hand, which Naruto shook firmly. Sakura stared back at her with respect in her eyes. She knew that Rin made a difficult decision concerning the past and the future. She then made a mental note to follow her fellow colleague's example and move on with the present. Just like Rin – san.
Kakashi smiled at his comrade's resolution. Humming a soft tune, he walked a few steps ahead of them then raised his arm lazily in the air. "Okay, everyone! Let's head back to Konoha!"
"HAI!"
Meanwhile…
Back in Konoha, the Fifth Hokage glanced at the document she held in her hands. She scanned the contents for almost a hundred times now and she couldn't believe her eyes for what she was reading. It was too good to be true. Shuffling the documents back inside their respective envelope, she ran her hand nervously through her blond locks as she leaned further in her oversized chair. Her amber eyes were glazed over as she tried to sum up what she had found out inside her head.
'Finally, a lead that would clarify Orochimaru's defeat and his right – hand man's badly timed bereavement.'
Tsunade progressed to place the envelope inside the bottom right drawer. After biting her thumb, she proceeded to form several hand seals then used her blood to act as the seal to lock the envelope inside. For her, it was by now considered as Top Classified Information and it would serve her good when the time comes that her successor would finally assume his position as Hokage.
She afterwards desired strongly. 'Hopefully it won't be long.'
Author's Notes: Chapter 11 has finally arrived! Finally, Naruto is ready to return to Konoha to achieve his long-term goal. However, more trials and more problems would ensue as he tries his hardest to become Tsunade's successor and of course, for the people of Konoha to acknowledge them as their next Hokage. For the past readers, thank you very much for making this story come far with your reviews! A new chapter will be coming up next! Ja!
