Author's note: This chapter will continue telling us how the characters have changed since the incident two years ago. This will also include a talk involving sexual things, so please take caution to those of you who are uncomfortable with reading such. Later parts of the chapter will focus on their date, as well as how those two characters are doing in their relationship.

Chapter 41: When Romance Takes Shape

At the hospital, Village Hidden in the Leaves, Land of Fire

For the past couple of years, the Leaf Village's hospital had taken in more doctors, medics and nurses. This was probably due to the influence of the hospital's vice-director: Sakura Haruno. She had continued to take good care of it while Tsunade ruled the village as Hokage. Under Sakura's leadership, the hospital had taken great measures in educating young medics in the art of healing. In that way, the hospital gained new employees that greatly contributed to those in need.

Right now, Sakura was now checking on the condition of a woman named Hiromu Sado. This woman had been granted refuge in the Leaf Village, along with her two young sons. It was done as a request of Hiromu's late husband: Hiruko Sado. However, the poor woman had some health issues, which is why she would often come to the hospital more often.

Having just finished with Hiromu, Sakura continued checking out the conditions of her two sons: Hideki and Hideyoshi. Both boys looked adorable, yet Hideki seemed somewhat more stoic for someone at his age. It was a stark contrast to his younger brother, as Hideyoshi seemed rather shy and timid.

"It's going to be alright, boys. I can assure you that neither one of you have poor health conditions. You're both doing great. And don't worry, your mother will be well soon" Sakura told the curious little boys, who didn't know what to say in return.

Hiromu smiled in hearing this. "Thank goodness. I've been worried about the boys' health for some time. It's probably due to me having been sick so many times" she told Sakura before turning her attention to her sons. "Now, children. I want you both to say thank you to Dr. Haruno for what she has done" the woman told them both.

"Thank you, Dr. Haruno" the boys said in unison, although Hideyoshi had some difficulties in looking up into the eyes of the pinkette. He was just a little too shy.

Sakura giggled, finding it cute how these children were trying their best to express their gratitude. "It was my pleasure, kids. As a healer, I'm very concerned about the health of every villager here. But rest assured, you two are looking healthy so far. Keep up with the activities you do!" she encouraged these young boys.

This made the two brothers smile, seeing as they admired Sakura and her compassionate persona.

"Okay, children. I need to have some talks with Dr. Haruno alone. It has something to do with the medicines. You two can just go the lobby and wait for me there" Hiromu told her two boys, who looked up at her in curiosity.

"Aw, how come?" Hideyoshi pouted, resorting to clinging onto his mother. "I wanna be with you, mommy" the little boy added, feeling somewhat powerless without her at his side.

Hiromu gently stroke through his son's hair. "Not when your big brother is near you" she assured Hideyoshi, while making sure him and his older brother were holding hands. "Hideki, I want you to be a big boy and watch out for your little brother while I'm speaking with Sakura. Go out to the lobby, both of you" she told her eldest boy.

"Sure, mama. But how long do we have to wait? I wanna go home and play with my friends?" Hideki asked.

Hiromu giggled and patted the head of her eldest son. "Not long, sweetheart. Now, go out in the lobby and I'll be there as quick as I can" she answered.

With her sons having gotten that reassurance, they exited the room, leaving their mother alone with Sakura. The pinkette could tell that this woman wanted to share something very serious with her.

"I take it that you didn't want your sons to be here because of you knowing the reason why they haven't inherited your poor health. There's no need to be ashamed of not wanitng them to know it. I fully sympathize with your decision, Hiromu" Sakura revealed to the Sado.

Hiromu was on the verge of crying, yet she managed to compose herself. "I just wanted to know whether they would inherit my sickness. But they haven't. And it's all thanks to their father's good health that they inherited from him" she said, getting more personal when thinking about her late ex-husband. Hiromu seemed very conflicted. "No matter how many times I've tried, I can't shake off the feeling of Hiruko no longer being with us. And I don't know how to deal with it! Hiruko may have been selfish in abandoning me and our sons for organized crime…..but he didn't deserve to die!" she then admitted, her eyes tearing as a result.

Sakura did her best to console the older woman. It was true, ever since Hiromu had learned about her former husband's death, as well as the criminal activities he was involved with, the Sado had inner conflicts about how to view his death. Was it a relief or a tragedy? Either way, Hiromu worried what would happen once her children grew up to find out about the fate of their late father.

"It's alright, Hiromu. I can't imagine the kind of absence Hideki and Hideyoshi will feel growing up without a father. The road ahead of them is rocky" Sakura said, comforting the Sado in an effort to ease her sadness.

Hiromu sniffed. "Sometimes, I wonder whether I made a mistake not to fight for Hiruko's heart. Did I fail to understand his true feelings? Was I never a good enough woman for her?" she then said.

Sakura was taken aback by her words. "Don't ever say that. The choices Hiruko made, were not your fault. They were his own doing. It was he who chose to abandon you and the other Sados to pursue this vengeance against the Hidden Cloud Village. While he may have had good intentions for opposing the Hidden Cloud, they still don't justify his decision to leave you all behind" Sakura assured the Sado.

Hiromu wiped off the tears from her eyes. "Every single day, I keep putting on this mask to make sure my kids believe in me. If they realize what I really feel, they will be devastated. It's hard to picture everything as being positive when the reality is different" she told them, eventually smiling sadly at the young medic. "Still, I will try and keep my head up high. We've got a new life ahead of us here in the Leaf Village. That's why I wanna raise my sons to this positive experience" she then admitted.

"Certainly, Hiromu. Your sons deserve that such. They're fortunate to have a loving mother like you in their lives" the pinkette remarked, only for something to cross into her mind. "And that reminds me, have you made any effort to contact Killer B?" she suddenly asked him.

The expression on Hiromu's face changed into that of concern. "To tell you the truth, I haven't. While I would like to speak to him someday…he's not my main priority. Hideki and Hideyoshi are more important now than ever. I must not dwell back on old friends. Still…...I know what B really desires…...if you or Naruto Uzumaki ever see him again…tell B that I've forgiven him…he deserves to at least know that" the mother revealed to Sakura.

"We will. That we can promise you" Sakura assured Hiromu as he got up and walked out of the office. "Take good care of your boys, Hiromu. And look after yourself as well. That's all I can say to you" she told the black-skinned woman.

Hiromu nodded her head in agreement. "Of course. Thank for this conversation, doctor" she said before exiting the office.

This left Sakura all by herself. Feeling tired, she sat by her desk and stretched her own legs, even resting them on the table.

"Boy, I could really use a break now. I've been too much invested in the job for a long time" Sakura groaned while rubbing her forehead.

As she was relaxing, Sakura could spot a picture standing on the table. She smiled, as it was of her and Naruto. The picture was taken during one of their many dates.

"It's been a while since we last went out. Perhaps I'll go and ask Naruto about what he's up to" Sakura suggested, only to form a mischievous idea as she thought about her boyfriend. "Or better yet, why don't we go out on a double date? And I know just the right couple to pick. Ino won't turn down this challenge. Which of our boyfriends is the best" she then mused.

Sakura was interrupted when a knock came to her door. As it opened, to people she knew entered her room.

"Hello there, Sakura!" the familiar male voice made the pinkette immediately realize who it was.

"Mom. Dad" Sakura was surprised by their sudden appearance in at the hospital.

That's right. Her parents, Kizashi and Mebuki Haruno had just arrived. Not much had changed to the couple since the aftermath of the world war. Well, Kizashi had perhaps gotten more wrinkles on his skin, not to mention that his moustache now reached straight to his nose. Still, him and his wife retained their same appearances as they had a couple of years ago.

"Mind if we come here for a quick visit?" Mebuki spoke up, immediately putting a hand on her daughter's shoulder.

Sakura was dumbfounded, yet she did respond to her mother with a hug of her own. "Sure. But there's nothing wrong with either one of you, is it?" she quizzed them.

Mebuki grinned back at Sakura. "Of course. We're both in tip-top shape!" she said, only to realize what her daughter was getting at. "Oh, yes. I know that visiting you at the hospital may not be the most appropriate time, but we'll be busy for the rest of the weeks. That's why your dad and I decided to come here now" the middle-aged woman informed Sakura.

Sakura shook her head at this, yet she still accepted her mother's reasoning. "Alright. I see" she said.

Kizashi leaned upon his daughter, facing her with a mischievous expression. "So, how's my little nurse doing on the job? I bet there are patients who are falling for your cuteness and…." he stopped speaking when Mebuki pulled his ear. "Ouch! What's the big idea, Mebuki?" he asked while trying to remove his wife's grip on his ear.

"I wanted you to stop speaking as if our daughter is single. She has a boyfriend already!" Mebuki explained to her goofy husband.

Kizashi responded by chuckling at his wife's words. "I know, I know. I was only trying to tease our precious Sakura here. Come on, there's nothing wrong with parents goofing off with their kids every once in a while" the man with the weird hairstyle pointed out, only to glance at Sakura all of a sudden. "And there's no way that I would ever disregard Naruto. He's a terrific fellow, perfect for someone as headstrong as you, my sweet little cherry pie!" he told his daughter.

Sakura couldn't help but to fall upon her chair, much to the confusion of her parents. From the looks of it, she seemed a little distressed.

"What's wrong, Sakura? Is there something that's been bugging you?" Mebuki asked, feeling a little concerned for her daughter.

"Yeah…you could say so, mom" the pinkette responded, wondering whether it was right of her to talk with her parents about this subject. Eventually, she decided to do so. "It's about the relationship between me and Naruto. Something's different" she admitted.

Her father, ever the curious man, couldn't help but to wonder whether it revolved around a very sensitive issue. That included a sexual relationship. Gulping, Kizashi decided to openly ask Sakura.

"Wait a second, Sakura. You're not pregnant, are you?" Kizashi broke the silence.

In response, Sakura angrily got up from her chair and lashed out against her father.

"NO WAY IN HELL!" the pinkette snapped, resisting the urge to punch Kizashi. Surprisingly, she withheld her anger, probably due to the fact that it was her father she was dealing with here.

Mebuki crossed her arms while glancing at Kizashi with dispassion. "Was it really necessary of you to ask such question?" she asked her husband.

"I was only curious to know….I never intended to…" he was interrupted by his daughter's voice.

"Just stop talking, dad. Please, you're taking this way out of context" Sakura kindly requested him. Taking a deep breath, Sakura let go of her anger and frustration. "I'm sorry. But what I meant to say was that me and Naruto haven't been seeing each other in a long time now. And not only that, it's been a long time since we were intimate with one another. I sometimes wonder whether each of us have been too focused on our jobs that we've neglected one another" Sakura told her parents everything.

Mebuki put a hand on her right shoulder. "Sweetie, that's completely normal. Sometimes, relationships come with sacrifices on each side. You already have this job as the hospital's vice-director while Naruto is up working his butt off at administrating things with Lady Tsunade. But trust me, there will be plenty of time for you to be with each other soon enough" she tried encouraging the young pinkette.

Letting out a deep sigh, Sakura could see how right Mebuki was.

"Your mom has a point, Sakura" Kizashi joined in on helping their daughter getting her spirits lifted. "And look, if you're still anxious about marrying Naruto, then you've no reason to worry. A marriage isn't formed as a result of a man and a woman coming together. It's all about commitments and dedication to the person who truly wanna spend the rest of your life with. Your mom and I can certainly attest to that" the middle-aged man explained, holding his right arm around his wife.

Sakura, no matter how annoying her parents could be sometimes, appreciated the advice from Kizashi and Mebuki. In truth, she sometimes felt bad for how Naruto didn't have parents in his life while she had. And of course, Sasuke had lost his family to the Uchiha Clan Massacre years ago. When compared to them, Sakura had a quite modest upbringing. Still, Kizashi and Mebuki were among the friendliest couples that ever lived in the Leaf Village and Sakura's friends could attest to that fact.

Without even thinking, Sakura embraced her parents in a tight hug. While each of them was surprised at first, they quickly returned their daughter's hug, embracing in a family hug. They were only a family of three, which wasn't that much big. Nevertheless, the Haruno family was inseparable.

"Thanks, mom. Dad. I can't believe I'm saying this, but I really needed to hear those words. Both of you are right" Sakura spoke up, grinning at them in a girly manner. "In fact, I'll tell Naruto about how I don't wanna rush to marriage and stuff. Frankly, I don't even know why I was stressed out about it. It must be due to the upcoming wedding between Shikamaru and Temari" she revealed.

Both of her parents were surprised. "What? Is Shikamaru getting married? To that Sand Village diplomat?" Mebuki quizzed, stunned by this sudden announcement. She couldn't help but to feel confused. "Hmm, I wonder why Yoshino never told me that. We both attend the same club together" she thought about Shikamaru's mother.

"Woah…what do you know. Shikaku's kid really has grown into a man since he assumed leadership of the Nara clan. But is he really determined to go through with this married?" Kizashi asked his daughter.

Sakura nodded her head in return. "Of course. Mind you, they've been together for a lot of years now. Probably because of their job, as they do travel a lot together" she answered, although a part of her couldn't help but to feel a little jealous. "If only Naruto was a medic ninja such as me. He could've worked at a hospital" she fumed, feeling a bit letdown by the fact.

Mebuki had to laugh in seeing her daughter say this. "But Sakura. You know that it's not necessarily his talents that makes you fall heels over him" she pointed out.

"Yeah, you've told us plenty of reasons why you love Naruto. And none of them involves around him being strong or anything. Wasn't one of them about Naruto being funny?" Kizashi tried to recall the conversation he had with Sakura about her boyfriend once. He soon found himself forming a goofy expression on his face. "Well, you've most certainly gained those traits from your mom. She's married to a goofball, after all" he pointed out before laughing.

Mebuki shook her head slightly at seeing her husband goofing off. "You're such a bumbling jackass sometimes, Kizashi" she revealed, yet didn't stop her husband from closing in on her.

"And you love it!" Kizashi teasingly said, before lovingly kissing Mebuki.

Sakura felt kind of awkward standing by as her parents did that in her office. "Ugh. Do you really have to do that in my office? This is a hospital, not a Ferris wheel!" she reprimanded them both.

Mebuki giggled while patting her daughter's head playfully. "Sorry about that, sweetie. I just couldn't help myself" she said before standing by the door. "But look, me and your dad better get going. It was great speaking to you, Sakura" she said.

Kizashi was about to join his wife, only to deliver a farewell kiss on his daughter's exposed forehead. "Yeah. You take good care for now, my little cherry pie. And don't stress yourself on the job" he told her before following Mebuki.

"Sure thing, dad. I won't" Sakura responded before waving her hand at them. "See you two later" she bid her parents farewell.

With that taken care off, Sakura returned to her chair, still feeling the need to relax before her help was required.

At a local café in the Leaf Village

Kurenai Yuhi was now meeting with one of her students: Hinata Hyuuga. The beautiful bluenette had asked if she was available to talk with her in private. And Kurenai, knowing how sincere Hinata was, was happy to oblige. They were now sitting inside a café, each of them enjoying some tea. But Kurenai could tell that there was something special the Hyuuga wanted to share with her. And she would hear what she had to say.

"I'm so glad that you could come, Kurenai-sensei. Umm….is it okay that Ayumu is not with us?" Hinata asked, wanting to make sure that her teacher was fine with this.

Kurenai's lips curled into a reassuring smile. "Sure, Hinata. Ayumu's now playing with his friends in the playground, so he'll be fine" she told her. "Besides, given how you wanted to have this talk with me alone, I can tell that it revolves around certain things that a young boy shouldn't be subjected into" the crimson-eyed woman added.

Hinata weakly nodded hear head as a yes. "It's true. There's something that I've wanted to talk with you about, sensei. It's about Kiba…" she revealed, much to Kurenai's surprise.

"Kiba? Okay, what is it about him?" Kurenai asked, suddenly getting an assumption in her mind. "Wait. Don't tell me that he's been getting into a quarrel with your family again" she said, wondering whether Kiba had started trouble.

"No! T-that's not it!" Hinata immediately shot down her teacher's assumption. She sighed, realizing that she needed to be honest with Kurenai. "It's about our relationship. I mean, it's not that I want to end it or anything…I really love him…..but over the past years…..Kiba's been wanting to take our relationship to new heights" the bluenette revealed.

Kurenai raised an eyebrow. "New heights? As with what?" she quizzed her.

"You know what I mean…ummmm…" Hinata felt her cheeks redden with embarrassment as she was about to say this lowly to Kurenai. "Kiba wants to sleep with me…...and to make love…" the Hyuuga-princess said, making sure that no one else in the café were hearing her say that.

"Ah, so you're saying that he wants to have sex with you" Kurenai responded, forcing Hinata to lower her head in slight shame. "But that's nothing to be embarrassed about, Hinata. Couples who love each other often engage in such activities. It's about being intimate with the one you love" she went on explaining how a sexual relationship worked.

"I know that…but ever since that incident two years ago…..we decided to restart our relationship…and so far, we've only kissed and hugged….that's really romantic and all" Hinata explained.

Kurenai was slowly starting to see where this was heading. "Are you saying that you want to be intimate with Kiba?" she asked him directly.

Hinata weakly nodded her head while tumbling her fingers. "Yes. I do wanna try it. But I'm still shy when it comes to sexual subjects…I don't know how it really works" the bluenette admitted.

"And I take it that's why you've asked me for some input" Kurenai assumed, seeing how the answer was obvious.

"At first, I was planning on talking with Shino about this. But he's a man….and he's married! No way that I could ever have such talk with him. That's why I began speaking with Sakura, Ino and Tenten, individually. But neither of them seemed to have the answers I was looking for. That's why I'm speaking to you now, Kurenai-sensei" Hinata revealed how she had tried getting some advice on intimacy from her friends.

Kurenai had to giggle at hearing Hinata say that. "I guess those girls had different solutions. I can see why" she noted while thinking about the other young kunoichis of the Leaf Village.

"Kurenai-sensei, please" Hinata pleaded to her teacher to stop this teasing.

"You're right. I take it back. Sorry" Kurenai responded to Hinata getting more nervous by the minute. "Now then, I really do wanna help you, Hinata. After all, I was in your position once when it came to me and Asuma" she revealed, getting slightly emotional by mentioning her late lover.

Hinata didn't want her teacher to bring back painful memories and losses. "I'm sorry, sensei. We don't have to talk if this brings back…" she was interjected by Kurenai.

"It's alright, Hinata. You don't even need to apologize" the crimson-eyed woman said, forming a supporting smile with her lips. "To tell you the truth, Asuma would've wanted me to have this talk with you had he been alive today. Don't forget, he was always supporting his students when it came to them finding their love" she went on, recalling back to the kind of man Asuma Sarutobi was.

Hinata smiled, unable to notice how her own cheeks were blushing. Obviously, her teacher had nothing but fond memories of Asuma. But while was no longer with her, it was their son who lifted her spirits up high. Ayumu was their legacy and Kurenai would raise him to be a fine shinobi as his father was.

"That's true. You were lucky to have met him, Kurenai-sensei" Hinata remarked to what she was hearing.

"Let's not drift of the subject here, Hinata. We're here to talk about you and Kiba" Kurenai reminded her and Hinata wholeheartedly agreed. "I can tell that you want to be intimate with Kiba. But assume that it's not just your nervousness. Is it also about how your family react and how the question of pregnancies?" she asked her.

"It's true. My father has been tolerant of me seeing Kiba. But he says that I shouldn't be intimate with him until we get married. But Kiba vehemently disagrees" Hinata stated, still feeling her doubts. But the Hyuuga surprisingly swallowed and found her courage to say this. "But I'm not listening to my father now. I want to experience the feeling of being loved…..and being appreciated. But I don't know how I should proceed" she admitted as she gained confidence.

Kurenai smiled. "I see. So, let's put aside what your family says and talk about Kiba. He wants to make love with you and you want to do the same thing with him. Is there anything with Kiba that turns you on?" she goaded Hinata into answering that question.

Hinata wanted to protest, yet she could tell by the look of her teacher that she was being serious. Feeling her cheeks reddening, she decided to come clean about what she liked about her boyfriend.

"Everything about Kiba turns me on, actually. But if I have to pick favorites…then I would say that it's his abs and arms. They're so strong and muscular…." Hinata admitted, starting to sound like a leech just now.

"I see. And that's nothing to be ashamed of, Hinata. If those are what turns you on, then that only confirms how much you are attracted to Kiba" Kurenai insisted, deciding to move onto something much serious. "Now, I assume that Kiba has never shown you his…private parts?" the crimson-eyed woman continued.

Hinata immediately shook her head. "No. I haven't. But for some reason…I would really want to see what's between his legs. I can't imagine what it is…" she mumbled.

Kurenai had to laugh in hearing this. "Come on, Hinata. You know what's between his legs. It's a penis. Every man has one. You can't possibly be that gullible to not know that" she bluntly pointed out to her.

"I k-know that!" Hinata snapped back, soon reverting back to her quiet and reserved self. "It's just that I've only read about those in the books…...I've never seen them in person" she explained.

"Yes. Sex is something we shinobis don't learn until we're in the middle of our teenagers. But given that you're a young adult woman now, you probably know what the man does with his penis during sex" Kurenai remarked, feeling the need to continue with helping her student in getting some lessons about genitalia, both men and women. "As a woman, you know what happens during sex. What do they do?" she questioned them.

Hinata felt somewhat reluctant to answer, yet she found her courage to do so. She made sure that she didn't say it out loud, as it was only embarrassing that someone like her would say such things.

"It's a-about when a man puts his penis into a woman's womanhood, also c-called a womanhood" Hinata started answering while fumbling with words. "And then…they make love…...until one of t-them ejaculates" the bluenette continued stating the obvious fact.

Kurenai seemed satisfied with her answer. "That's it. At least you know the basics. But note that there are plenty of ways to engage in sexual activities, not just one" she revealed.

Hinata couldn't help but to feel curious. "There is?" she uttered out.

"For sure. Which leads me to moving on to ask you this: what is it about you that turns Kiba on?" Kurenai asked, cuasing Hinata to almost explode with redness on her cheeks.

"S-shouldn't you a-ask Kiba about that?" Hinata was taken aback, feeling a bit weird about her teacher's question.

Kurenai faced the bluenette with a smirk. "That may be true, but in the years you and him have spent time together, he must've told you what makes him love you" the crimson-eyed woman pointed out.

Hinata took her time to recall on the many dates she and Kiba had been on. "Well, he likes pretty much everything about me. My hair, my eyes, my face, my voice and…." Hinata stopped when she saw her teacher lightly shook her head.

"That's great and all, but it's not the point I'm trying to make here" Kurenai revealed, leaning closer towards her student's face, hoping to say this lowly. "What I'm looking for is what is it about you that makes Kiba feel sexually aroused. Be honest, Hinata. There's something Kiba finds very sexy about you, isn't it?" she continued with getting more from Hinata.

As shy as she could possibly get, Hinata knew that there was some truth in Kurenai's question. The bluenette was aware of the certain parts Kiba had liked about her. Tumbling her fingers, Hinata eventually put her arms underneath her chest.

"Well…..I suppose Kiba does like my breasts. He says that he loves feeling them when we hug each other" Hinata revealed, observing how protruding her bosom was. Sometimes, it was difficult for someone like her to live with a chest at this size. "I personally think that they're too big. But Kiba seems to like them" the Hyuuga then admitted, still feeling embarrassed to have these orbs.

Kurenai giggled. "I see. But has Kiba ever told you that they're too big?" she asked her.

"No. He thinks they're great" Hinata responded, only to recall the other things her boyfriend had done to her. She even blushed as she dug up those memories. "Now as for what Kiba likes about me…he does say that I have a big and round…oh God, this is so embarrassing, I…." she felt very bad for wanting to say this, yet her teacher intervened.

"Go on. Tell me more. We're both women here, Hinata, so there's nothing to be shy about" Kurenai encouraged her.

Realizing how her teacher was trustworthy, Hinata continued. "Kiba thinks my butt is big and round…I don't know why, but he often stares at it whenever I lean over to pick up something I accidentally dropped" the bluenette said as she stated rubbing her thighs and tailbone. "Sometimes, he even gives my buttocks a few slaps. I was against it at first…..but I started to gradually like it. And it's just playful slaps, they don't hurt me at least" Hinata remarked, even finding the need to giggle as she thought about how mischievous Kiba could be.

"So, Kiba likes both your bosom and your butt? Well, there you have it, Hinata. There's something he likes about you, as Kiba has something you like about him. It's all about what attracts and arouse you and the man you love" Kurenai revealed in a smug manner. "Now just imagine, what if you could have used those two along with your beauty to seduce Kiba? Just forget about everything else around you and try luring him to you. I'm sure that wants to do the same thing when it comes to pleasing you" she continued, much to the shock of Hinata.

"You sound just like Ino now, Kurenai-sensei" the bluenette admitted, although her cheeks were still reddening. "While I do wanna try and seduce him…..I'm only worried about what effect it will have upon Kiba. He's an Inuzuka…..and from what his mother told me, Inuzukas has a great stamina when it comes to sex. I remember her saying that it's got something to do with what is called heat" she recalled from a conversation she had with Kiba's mother once.

The crimson-eyed woman showed understanding towards her student. "Tch, why am I not surprised. That clan is animalistic. They sometimes lives and thinks like animals, or dogs to be specific" Kurenai mused to herself. But she started considering what Hinata had said what Kiba liked about her. Kurenai couldn't really blame the hotheaded Inuzuka for having such fetishes. The Hyuuga-princess was quite a looker, particularly for impulsive horndogs such as Kiba.

While Kurenai had an attractive body of her own, she had to admit that Hinata had developed quite a figure throughout the years. As a young woman, Hinata was considered a beauty, especially since she no longer wore her usual baggy clothes as she did in the past. Hinata's bosom was impressive for someone at her age. In fact, Kurenai had overheard other young kunoichis express their jealousy towards the bluenette for having bigger breasts than her. Still, they were smaller when compared to the likes of Tsunade. In other words, Hinata had all the right curves and feminine charms.

An idea suddenly popped into Kurenai's head, and she took her student's hand. "Alright, Hinata. I've heard what I've needed to hear. And from the looks of it, you could use some guidance. Why don't we go to the bookstore and see if we can find something that can assist you?" she suggested.

Even though Hinata was surprised, she had to admit that her teacher's idea sounded good. "O-okay. But what about…" she was asking about the tea, only for Kurenai to leave some coins and tips on the table.

"Don't worry, the tea is on me. And the bookstore is just around the corner, so we don't have to worry about Ayumu. Now, come along now. I think I know just the right book you need" Kurenai said while dragging her young student out of the café.

Hinata was confused, yet she followed her teacher without even so much as questioning her.

"Hmm….I wonder what Kurenai-sensei has in mind" Hinata thought, starting to feel more curious.

At the Uchiha Memorial, somewhere outside the Leaf Village

The Uchiha Memorial site had not changed much in the last couple of years. As of now, Sasuke would often act as the caretaker of this place. What had changed, however, was in how Sasuke had buried his late cousin: Saizo Uchiha. Having brought his body back to the Leaf Village, Sasuke had given his deceased cousin a proper burial. He was buried beside Akihime Uchiha, Saizo's mother and Sasuke's aunt. This process had affected Sasuke greatly, given that he was now the last living Uchiha to roam the world. But at the same time, burying Saizo had given him some form of closure.

Sasuke was now decorating the graves of Akihime and Saizo with some flowers he had gotten from the Yamanaka Flower Shop. And Ino was assisting him with that. Because of her accompanying him, the authorities of the village wouldn't have to worry about sending someone to supervise Sasuke. That was practically Ino's job.

While putting some flowers by the grave of Akihime, Ino had taken notice of how silent Sasuke had been. He had stared at the gravestone of Saizo, as it was now being decorated with flowers. But on the other hand, Ino could see how the Uchiha was secretly grieving for his deceased cousin.

"It's difficult to move on from this loss, isn't it?" Ino lowly asked her boyfriend, wondering whether her words could ease his sorrow.

Closing his eyes, Sasuke faced the ground, as if he was looking straight at the buried coffin beneath him. "It is. Especially when that person was someone really dear to me, a part of my blood relations" the raven-haired man answered, still reeling the loss of his only relative. Yet Sasuke soon found himself to smile lightly as he looked at Ino. "But as painful as this may sound, I know that Saizo is now in a better place than he was before. I've freed him from his anguish. That's why it's easier to forgive myself for ending him" Sasuke admitted, still feeling emotional when thinking about Saizo.

Ino smiled back at him in return. "Yeah…..I see what you mean" she spoke in support of Sasuke's sentiment.

However, the Yamanaka Mistress noticed Sasuke standing up on his feet, facing the gravestone once again. She even witnessed his hands clenching tightly. And from the look of his expression, Sasuke was angry. Ino could even feel the rage building within the young Uchiha.

"The Dragon Creed. Those bastards are the one who's responsible for Saizo's suffering. They'll pay for what they did! Every day, I feel one step closer to uncover the whereabouts of that damned cult!" Sasuke seethed with anger, wanting to avenge Saizo.

Ino watched this with great concern. In the past, she knew that revenge had only resulted in corrupted Sasuke's mind. The same mistake would not be repeated.

"Sasuke….." Ino's firm voice caught his attention. She also stood up on her feet, facing the man she loved with determination in her eyes. "While I understand your desire to avenge Saizo, there's something else that you should take caution to. While we all desire to hunt down the Dragon Creed, you must make sure that stopping them is for the sake of justice, not vengeance" Ino explained, trying to reason with him.

Sasuke only glanced at her, only to smile lightly. "On that, I already know" he bluntly told Ino. "Still, I can't rest until the members of the Dragon Creed has been dealt with. I won't allow them to toy with other dead people. Their wickedness cost Saizo" he then spoke in a much serious tone.

"How has the Shadow Squad's efforts been so far? Any luck of finding any clues?" Ino wanted to know more.

"So far, we've discovered that there's nothing suspicious taking place in the Land of Waves. That place is no longer the same haven for corrupt officials. But there's still some shady activities taking place in the Land of Wind" Sasuke revealed, recalling to the various missions he had done out in the fields. "We've cooperated with the Sand Village's Grim Guard and their help has proven useful. That's why there's no reason to doubt their loyalty…..unlike the Cloud and Stone Villages" he went on telling Ino what he had learned.

A worried expression Ino's face. "Yeah, I've heard from Captain Ibiki. During that incident with the Moon, someone managed to leak intel about the Triple Entente to both those villages. Ever since then, they refused to engage in diplomatic relations with us. And now I hear that they are planning their own military alliance against us" Ino sighed, finding this situation to be quite complicated. "But that's not what's mostly concerning here. The Cryptanalysis Team still hasn't been able to figure out where those leakers could be hiding. But we also suspect that this could perhaps be the work of the Dragon Creed" she went on, recalling to what she had read in her report.

Sasuke clenched his fists tightly, still feeling a desire to tear this order to pieces. "Wherever they may be hiding, they can't do it for long. I'll find them" he said, but suddenly felt Ino holding his left hand. He was slightly surprised, wondering why she did that.

From what he could tell, Ino was at his side. "You won't find them alone. Me, Naruto, Sakura, Shikamaru, Chouji, Kakashi-sensei, Lady Tsunade, we'll all do it together. Remember, you're not on your own in all of this, Sasuke" the blondie pointed out with a smile.

Sasuke had to chuckle himself in amusement in hearing this. He and Ino both held their hands together, looking each other in the eye as if they searched for something. But it was obvious where this was going.

"I know, Ino. I already know" Sasuke lowly responded.

And with that, the couple kissed, not minding the wind that was blowing over them. This kiss was rather quick, yet Ino quickly wrapped her arms around the young Uchiha. Sasuke returned the favor by doing the same around the woman before him. This was a reassurance of how Sasuke was not alone in his quest to find the Dragon Creed.

As he held around Ino, Sasuke couldn't help but to notice a spot in the woods that seemed very familiar to him. The spot had a small stump, yet it looked very old. He smiled weakly, as he had nothing but fond memories of that place. It was where he, Itachi and Saizo used to play at as young boys. Sasuke still recalled when they each drank a cup of oath, swearing to become strong shinobis of the Uchiha clan. The raven-haired man could hear voices of the past, including those belonging to his older brother and cousin.

"So let's do this guys. Someday, we will become great shinobis of the Uchiha clan together! So let's say this to make sure that we all promise!" the voice of Itachi kept making Sasuke smile.

"Itachi…..Saizo…" Sasuke thought, still embracing Ino. "I'll continue to honor our promise…..that I swear to you" he swore silently, not wanting Ino to know about how he was reminiscing of something fantastic in his life.

In the streets of the Leaf Village

Chouji Akimichi was in full spirits, as he was holding onto a letter. This letter was not just from any ordinary woman. It was from Sanae, a kunoichi from the Stone Village he had been seeing since the aftermath of the world war. Before the crisis two years ago, Chouji and Sanae had no problems meeting each other in a place and spend time together. But because of recent events, things had changed.

The Hidden Stone Village, angered about the Triple Entente, ceased all diplomatic relations with the Leaf, Sand and Mist Villages. And worse, the Third Tsuchikage Onoki had now introduced a strict policy towards ninjas related to those villages. Among those rules was that ninjas from those village would no longer be permitted to visit the Hidden Stone, or the Land of Earth to an extent. As such, Stone villagers had no permission to visit any of these three.

This ban on foreigners had affected the relationship between Chouji and Sanae. She was the daughter of one of the esteemed members of the Stone Council. Her father, Kenshi, had strictly forbid her from ever seeing Chouji again. Kenshi was, to Chouji's knowledge, among the most respected yet hawkish members of the council of elders.

Luckily, there was yet one method Sanae and Chouji could communicate with each other without getting caught. It came in the form of letters. Chouji had no problems doing that, seeing as his family was supportive of his love for Sanae. But it wasn't the same for he Stone kunoichi, however. That's why there were only a few times Sanae would have success in sending a letter to Chouji.

Clutching the tiny paper onto his chest, Chouji couldn't imagine what the woman he loved had written. He was dying to find out and moved into an alleyway so that he could enjoy some privacy.

"Oh, Sanae. It's been so long since we last spoke! Please say that you're doing okay!" a gleeful Chouji said as he couldn't imagine the sate his lover was in.

Carefully wrapping up the paper, Chouji took his time to read through what Sanae had written. Her handwriting was impressive, even towards a lovable dolt such as Chouji.

Dear Chouji, my sweet, lovable, glutton

I'm terribly sorry for not being able to write to you in the last months. But things had changed since the last time I wrote to you. There is bad news, as well as some good news. I didn't know which you wanted to hear first, but in my estimation, you would probably want to hear the bad news. So be calm and just read this through.

The bad news is that my father and triplet brothers know about the relationship between you and me. And of course, they're not impressed. Still, they have yet to know that I still keep in contact with you through these messages. But I can't afford to be careless. Not only is my family on my trail, but the entire village is as well. You won't believe the policies the Third Tsuchikage has introduced. Should any Stone ninja get caught making contact with a ninja from the Leaf, Sand or Mist, that person risks being exiled. Believe me, Chouji, I'm not joking here. That cranky old midget Onoki has returned to his isolationist policies. They only Kage he gets along with is the Raikage.

But that's enough of the bad news. I did tell you there were good news as well. You see, I have figured out a perfect opportunity in how you and I can meet again without getting us into trouble. I'm participating in what appears to be a beauty contest where it's all about naming the most beautiful kunoichi in the world. You heard me right. I've always wanted to prove that I'm cute. Anyway, my father would've let me joined if it weren't for the place which the contest is being arranged. Its hosted by this Village Hidden in the Gold, on the Land of Gold. From what I hear, that island is one heck of a paradise, all the more reason for why the contest is held there. And rumor has it that this contest is seeking kunoichis from across the world, not just in the Five Great Elemental Nations.

If you could head down to the Gold Village, then you and I may have a chance of meeting each other there. Doesn't that sound great? Trust me, I'll do whatever possible I can to make sure you and I well spend some time together.

Please send me a letter back as soon as you can, Chouji. You've no idea how I'm longing to be with you at the moment.

Lots of hugs and kisses!

From your dearest and sweetest Sanae

P.S. There's a reason why the Gold Village should interest you. They have all these fancy restaurants that's nothing like we have back in the Stone Village. I even hear they're serving seafood there! Surely and I could spend the evening at one of those, wouldn't agree?

When he was done reading the letter, tears of joy could be seen running across Chouji's cheeks. He had no idea how happy he was right now. Although some of the parts Sanae had written seemed troubling, Chouji felt relieved to know that his lover was brave and determined to keep their relationship.

"Sanae….I…" Chouji sniffed, soon crying like a baby.

The bystanders passing by the alleyway were all shocked by what kind of a man would cry this loud. Yet none of them bothered to check out, preferring to mind their own businesses as usual.

However, there was one person who had taken notice of Chouji's cry. And that person appeared right before his longtime friend alongside his fiancé.

"What are you doing out here crying, Chouji?" the voice came from Shikamaru, as he and Temari stood before him. "I swear, I thought it was a child who had cried, but turns out it was you" the young clan head scratched the back of his neck.

Chouji dried his tears. "Oh….hi Shikamaru….Temari" he said while showing them the paper. "Sorry about the noise, but I just got a letter from Sanae!" he squealed with joy before kissing the paper endlessly.

Shikamaru stood and observed his chubby comrade do that with a moped expression, while Temari mused to herself.

"Ah, so your girlfriend writes letters? That's so romantic" the Sand kunoichi remarked before smugly facing her fiancé. "I sometimes wish Shikamaru would do the same with me" Temari teasingly said.

"Very funny, Temari. And I sometimes wish you would give those corny jokes a rest" Shikamaru responded, yet he decided to shift focus back to his best friend. "Anyway, is it really safe for you to do this, Chouji? I mean, she's from the Stone Village, and you know isolated it has become in the couple of years" he pointed out.

Chouji stood up, his tears now gone from his eyes. "That may be true. But that still doesn't mean me and Sanae can't love one another! No stupid rules are gonna ruin our relationship!" the Akimichi heir boasted with pride.

"You really have guts in you, Chouji. I'm impressed" Temari remarked in seeing the fire within Chouji's eyes.

Shikamaru sighed deeply. "Alright. But how are you hang together when she'll obviously be monitored by her family and the Tsuchikage?" he was suddenly given the letter by Chouji. Realizing how he wanted him to read everything, Shikamaru did so without hesitating. Along the lines, he was stunned to see what kind of a place Chouji would meet her at. "A beauty contest…...in the Village Hidden in the Gold?" Shikamaru was speechless.

"Yeah! The Stone ninjas can go outside as long as it's not in the Leaf, Sand or Mist Villages, right? Well, since this contest is in that village, there's nothing for the Tsuchikage and his guys to worry about! And that means…." Chouji was feeling so happy, and he began fantasizing about his dream. "I get to spend time with Sanae in peace!" he gleefully exclaimed.

Shikamaru didn't know how to make of his best friend's idea. "Yeah…..sure" he flatly responded.

But for Temari, the mentioning of this Gold Village seemed to bring some concerns unto her. Shikamaru and Chouji could see that and they both wondered why.

"The Hidden Gold Village….." Temari noted, recalling to what she knew about the place. "It's located on an island only a few hours away from the Land of Wind's coastline. From what I gather, it's a paradise for all shinobis and non-shinobis alike. There are beaches, casinos, hotels, amusement parks, fountains, lights and all kinds of activities that makes it completely different from other hidden villages. It sounds more like a tourist destination than a village of ninjas to be honest" she recalled to what she had learned.

"A place where casinos are? Heh, Lady Tsunade would've loved that place" Shikamaru mused to himself. "But I also hear that the Gold Village has samurais in their ranks in addition to ninjas. Talk about being a melting pot of cultures" he then added.

"I know. However, there's something more to that village. People say that it has existed for twenty years. Yet somehow it only gained much attention two years ago. Something troubles me greatly" Temari admitted.

Her fiancé held her close to him. "You're still thinking about that incident in the Sand Village. When that old geezer Tojuro broke free from his prison" Shikamaru tried his best to comfort her.

Temari still seemed troubled. "I still remember what was written on the wall. Whoever freed that scumbag Tojuro…...I can't understand how a sick, twisted killer would know of my mother!" she snapped, starting to feel distressed.

The writings on the wall, "REMEMBER KARURA!", still haunted Temari and her siblings, including Gaara. Someone had the audacity to write the name of their beloved mother with blood of dead prison guards. Temari couldn't help but to feel worried about her upcoming wedding.

But with Shikamaru as her groom, Temari knew that their wedding would be safe. They had so many friends and families to count on.

"No reason to worry, Temari. I'm at your side" Shikamaru told her reassuringly. "I know you're still having some nightmares about it. But rest assured, me and my family will se to that our wedding will be of great success" the head of the Nara clan added with a confidential smirk.

Temari giggled in seeing how manly her fiancé was acting. "You just know how to make me fall heels over you, handsome" the young woman admitted, before embracing Shikamaru in a passionate kiss.

Chouji, who felt a little awkward, decided to move away, only to be stopped by Shikamaru.

"Hold on a sec, Chouji. You're still up for it, aren't you? You know, being my best man at the wedding?" Shikamaru asked him.

Chouji responded by giving him a thumbs up. "Sure! How could I possibly say no to such an honor? You've been my friend since we were boys, Shikamaru. No way that I'm gonna sit this one out!" the chubby man boasted, much to the amusement of the couple before him.

"Glad to hear it. I'll see around, pal" Shikamaru and his fiancé bid their friend farewell as he took his leave.

Now that they were alone, Temari couldn't help but to teasingly touch Shikamaru's chin.

"Well then, shall we get back home? Your mom is probably anxious to participate in the planning of our wedding" Temari asked, much to Shikamaru's annoyance.

"Argh, what a drag" he said, yet awarded Temari with a kiss on her cheek. "But yeah, I'll be happy to do that. Anything for you, beautiful" Shikamaru said, forcing Temari to giggle.

"Then lead the way, handsome" the dark blonde-haired woman encouraged him.

To be continued…..

Authors' note: Well, this chapter was still continuing exploring the many relationships. And of course, there will be more to come about them. For the next chapter, I plan on writing a lemon scene, especially since it involves the date between Lee and Tenten. But I also plan on possibly writing similar scenes with the other couples, including Kiba and Hinata and Shikamaru and Temari. How things will unfold from here, you just have to wait and see. Take care, everyone!