Level Head

"Let's all just calm down…" Iruka suggested, moving to stand beside Kakashi. Looking down at the young woman, guilt festered. This isn't probably how you imagined it, Kagome-san…

The trees suddenly lit up with light as someone came down the path. "Who in the hell is making all of this racket?" They demanded. "I've got paying customers here!"

Jiraiya chose that moment to make his escape. In a poof, he disappeared. Naruto yelled his frustration, throwing his fist into the ground. "What a coward!" Looking at his sensei's, the boy frowned. "What do we do now?"

Kakashi sighed. "It's for the best. He needs some time to let this sink in. As for Kagome-san, she's not even conscious and it's her who needs to talk to him," he awkwardly shifted her weight in his arms as he searched her jacket pockets. Extracting a key, he delegated their tasks. "I'll take her to her room. Iruka, you should take Naruto home."

His pupil hesitated. "But—"

Iruka smiled gently. "Kakashi's right, Naruto. It's late and we won't find Jiraiya-sama tonight."

The boy argued some more, however eventually allowed himself to be led off, casting one more worried look over his shoulder. When they were out of sight, Kakashi sighed again, looking straight up to the moon. "How do I get myself into these situations…"


A/N: I can't believe I just posted the 50th chapter. When I started this story last month, I didn't even think it would get to this point. My sincerest and warmest thank you to everyone who has been sticking with me. You guys are the best!