I don't own Naruto, there that's my disclaimer.
Sakura was up at 230 the next morning, wanting to be ready to greet her student. Eating a protein bar, she headed to the private training ground. Finding this earlier in the week, it was secluded enough to not be bothered. Hanabi staggered to meet Sakura, clear that she was not used to waking up this early
"We'll begin by warming up by stretching then moving into cardio," Sakura spoke
"Hai," Hanabi murmured starting what her sensei said
Sakura made sure to drag it out, giving Hanabi time to adjust to the time. It was exactly what Tsunade did with her, slowly increasing the intensity. Moving into the actual training, she started by having Hanabi show her where her knowledge was. Which wasn't much. Starting at the very beginning, thankfully Sakura had planned for that. She was exaggerating to her father about her skills, not that she would be the one to tell him that.
As the sun was beginning to shine through the trees, Sakura could see that Hanabi was starting to tire. The work was becoming sloppy, with unnecessary mistakes.
"Enough. Your work is becoming sloppy and would become useless in a real scenario. Finish up with the laps around the compound. We will meet here again at four." Sakura announced to her student
"Hai, sensei." Hanabi spoke picking her things up, her voice was tired. Smiling at her student, her student ran off. Feeling someone approaching from behind, she turned to see Neji walking toward her.
"Morning." Sakura smiled
Giving her a nod to her gesture, "How did day one go?"
"Well, she's not as far along as perceived. She gained a lot, but there is going to be a long road for her to travel."
"She'll catch on. She's got a great teacher."
"How do you know? I could be a terrible teacher."
"I doubt that, you've had some good influences."
Sakura nodded, that she did. Packing up the supplies from the first day, Neji led them back to their rooms, Sakura had some reading to do. Surprised when one of the servants brought her a tray of food, the hunger from the morning finally catching up to her. Taking it, she knew that lunch was around the corner. It was a great snack to tide her over.
Lunch came and went quickly, Sakura engrossed by scrolls. Neji looked on, hoping that she would acknowledge those around her. Yet, she finished quickly. With the rest of them catching up, Neji yet again left her in her room reading. Even though it didn't seem like she was relaxing, to Sakura she couldn't be more content than reading. It was something she didn't get to do often.
Hearing the familiar knock on her door, she called out to them to enter. Neji walked in, smirking at her disregard.
"You yet again allow anyone to enter your room." Sakura shrugged at him, finishing where she was.
"I guess it's a good thing the people around me tell me I can take care of myself."
Neji chuckled at the girl, "Why don't you put your scrolls away and come train with me and show me what you've been learning."
Amused that Neji seemed to be jealous of her reading, rather than paying attention to him she put away the scroll. Standing, Neji began the way to the same training grounds he found her at this morning.
"Are there any rules?" Sakura asked
"No breaking the ground." Snickering at him, Sakura agreed to the rule
They set about starting their training with one another. Both paying attention to how each other worked. Clearly, they were starting with basic combat before moving on to more. Before long, Neji started calling out suggestions. Whether it be on her form or how much chakra was behind the attack. Sakura took it all in, slowly learning how to make the adjustments. It was still nowhere near fair as Neji had the upper hand, but Sakura was gaining.
Seeing the trickle of sweat that was brewing on Neji's forehead made Sakura want to gloat. Yet, in a way she knew. If she did, he'd kick her ass. Calling it a day after they both noticed that the sun was starting to disappear, it seemed to be successful. Granted, Sakura wasn't much of a help to Neji as he was clearly the expert with taijutsu.
"You did well today," Neji spoke sitting beside Sakura under a tree resting. It wasn't the most difficult training he'd ever done, just mixed with watching other moves and fixing them while not getting hit was the challenge.
"Thanks, I have a feeling that these will only get better." Sarcasm dripped from Sakura's statement.
"You are right," Neji spoke standing, offering a hand to Sakura who hesitantly took it. They headed back to the compound, many different eyes all watching the interaction.
The next couple of few flew by. Neji was done with his mission reporting and handed in his detailed report. He couldn't discuss what he was working on now, stating it was ANBU matters. Not pushing, Sakura knew that if it was ANBU there was a good reason it was classified. Sakura had changed up her student's training schedule several times. It was clear that the mornings would need the most work, which surprised Sakura. Being as they had an early breakfast, she assumed Hanabi was a morning person. Another reason not to assume something from someone. Her student at least seemed to be catching on, slow, it was progress.
At this point in her stay at the compound, Naruto and Sai came to visit her. Sai was his normal jerk, something Sakura missed. He'd explained why he hadn't been around, missions upon mission. Wondering why he was back to doing some solo missions, it wasn't something she wanted to be involved in. If he wanted her to know, he would have said something.
Sakura was enjoying her training sessions with Neji, they'd accelerated into Neji trying to figure out her genjutsu. He'd still hadn't discovered it yet; he was determined to figure it out. Most days, they'd end with Sakura annoying the boy. Running around and fooled around before they sat down, relaxing before heading back to their rooms. Both enjoyed their time together, learning more about the other each time they trained.
Today Sakura was meeting with Lord Hiashi, learning more from the latest clan meeting. Which if anyone could guess, was Sakura would yell after being targeted. Neji walked with her enjoying the continued banter from their tea. Waiting with her while Hiashi readied himself. Hearing the normal please enter, Neji opened the door for Sakura and then proceeded to leave. Before he could get far, Hiashi asked him to stay. Nodding, Neji was unsure of what the reasoning was.
"Now that I understand more of where your knowledge stands, I can help you. I can see that some of the other clan members target you because you let them get under your skin. During this time you've been here, I have been gaining what I can from your clan's history." Hiashi began, "Before we begin on other matters, I have noticed that you haven't granted anyone your clan's name should you pass."
"I- wait. That is something I can do?" Sakura ask surprised, she'd never heard of that or read it anywhere
"It is uncommon, at least amongst the larger clans. However, to keep the powers equal and stable the Hokage has placed some measures such as this in place. This way, no one clan can take control."
Sitting back Sakura racked her brain for anything, who should she appoint? She didn't even know where to start, most of her friends were part of clans or were happy where they were. "Thank you for that, I have some decisions to make."
"Of course. If you may, I'd like to make a suggestion. You don't have to approve it; it is merely something you can think over."
"I'd love a suggestion; I mean this is a large burden to undertake. I don't want to burden just anyone. Plus, I'd like them to be competent, so my clan's name isn't destroyed."
"That is understandable. The person that would be a good candidate is Neji, he has an advantage that many don't. He has attended many clan meetings with me, that could be beneficial to you." Hiashi spoke watching the pair before him. Watching the girl try to hold back the blush that was arising, then his nephew's eyes sparkled becoming neutral once more
"I. I couldn't-." Sakura stammered, "That is such a personal act, I couldn't put him in a position that he finds uncomfortable."
The room went silent whilst the room all thought about the situation, they were in. Each with different thoughts, yet all leading to a similar direction.
"I would be honored Hurano-san, it would not as you said burden me." Neji spoke, "Of course, if you do not feel comfortable that is understood. We are new-found friends and that is not something I wish to destroy." Neji gave his view seeing his uncle smile. Clear that his speech was approved by the Hyuga head.
"Nej-, Hyuga-san, thank you." Sakura finally looked at him making eye contact, "If you feel that way, I would appreciate it immeasurably."
"Wonderful, that can be arranged." Hiashi spoke
"So, does he help me with clan duties now?" Sakura asked
"Yes, he acts as support with decisions. For now, you are the one to present them at the clan meetings. However, in your personal time, you can discuss what you wish from the meetings."
"Okay, understood. How do I well, add him and give him rights?" Sakura asked, new to this new rule that was overlooked
"You can include him at any time. If we have a meeting to discuss future clan plans, he should be with you. I do have the scrolls to make this official." Hiashi presented them both with a scroll detailing what he'd discussed
Watching the two look over the scrolls quickly, transpired how he wanted. There was a detail he wanted them to miss for the time being. Watching the girl turn to his nephew, his nephew curled his lip up slightly.
"Would you mind starting now?" Sakura laughed "All of this is just out of my league; your input would be appreciated. Kakashi was a good trainer for ninja ways, he hasn't passed on any good lessons for clan duties. It would be nice to have a back-up."
"I would be honored Hurano-san, I hope to help you and your clan."
Hiashi pointed to where they needed to sign, officializing the act. Successful at hiding his smirk from the girl, he could tell that his nephew saw it. Knowing he wouldn't call him out with another present was beneficial.
"Thank you for the help. I truly appreciate it!" Sakura smile
"Of course." Hiashi commenced the next portion of his plans, "There is more to discuss before we get into clan meeting duties. Please both of you look this over." Handing Sakura over a scroll, he watched with intense interest
Watched the girl's eyes enlarge, and his nephew's mouth open slightly. "Nani?!" Sakura refrained from shouting if only barely "That is a large sum of money, not even including the piece of land that is being given to my clan!"
Hiashi chuckled, seeing how she was doing her best to not shout. "It is a piece of land that is used for farming with some spare room for a house possibly. With the Hyuga clan barely using it, it would be of better use to you. We will continue to harvest from it, as long as you allow us to do so. The other portion is up to the both of you on how you use it. This will give you a slight advantage in the meetings."
Sakura stared at the scroll seeing the numbers. The sum of money the Hyuga's were offering her was more than a year's salary from the hospital. "I- thank you. I'm at a loss of words."
"Think of it as part of your payment for having to train my daughter and put up with our ways," Hiashi spoke
"I don't know if my training is worth that much-." Sakura trailed off
"Your parents left you with nothing. It is time that the Hurano clan stand tall once more. Something I can foresee you accomplishing together. You can think about that later. For now, let us begin discussing how to; better behave yourself at the next clan meeting."
Sakura blushed, nodding her agreement.
When it was finally dinner time, Sakura felt as if her head would combust. Taking in so much information, learning that losing her temper was what the other clan heads wanted from her. Giving them the upper hand, getting her to place her foot in her mouth rather than accomplish anything. Neji was an added benefit to the discussion, adding points she never would have thought of. Having some worry that this would burden him, he seemed to enjoy it having her worries disappear.
May came and went with regular meetings, preparing for the next clan meeting. Sakura and Neji met with Hiashi weekly, with hopes that she'd be ready. Sakura spoke with Neji in the days after, making sure he was truly okay with assisting in clan meetings. Even speaking of him holding the clan's name, which Sakura didn't fully understand. How did that affect Neji's rank in his own clan now? She had questions, yet they weren't ones she wanted to ask Hiashi. Neji had reassured her, glad to have been able to be the one to help her. He wasn't sure what his uncle was up to, he'd never heard of this happening. He wasn't sure if his uncle fully understood what was going on, wondering where he'd found this back passage.
Their training was also improving, Sakura's taijutsu was worlds better. Learning to use all her senses as she'd trained before, it just took some time to relearn this. Neji was impressed with her. Every time they worked together; she would do something out of character. His favorite moments were at the end when they would fool around. Sakura brought out his playful side, one he tended to only have with her. The same could be said for Sakura. The time spent together seemed to bring them closer each time. Learning and teaching each other yet being able to have fun. Sakura was impressed with herself as she was creating her own fighting style, compared to the Hyuga's. Granted there was room for improvement, she'd only been working on it for a couple of months.
Sakura was impressed with her student's sudden change, grasping the basics and moving forward. Beginning to spar with her, she was quick on her toes. Sakura was impressed that her teaching was paying off.
After taking the day off, Neji was leading Sakura to dinner that night. Sakura even managed to get a partial smile from the boy next to her, imprinting that into her memory forever. Taking their seats, dinner was served. Conversations seemed to flow easier nowadays. The pink-haired Kunoichi's old personality showed through and impressed those in her company. She was finding the middle ground, one that training wasn't the main reason to live and to have fun.
"Father, I am going out tonight with some friends," Hinata announced to her father
"What ones?"
"Ino, Tenten, Lee and Sai." Hinata answered
"Of course, Hurano-san you should join them. You've barely given yourself a rest since you've been here."
"I will pass. Yamanaka and I have parted to go our own ways. We do not wish to cross paths at this time."
Watching the lord nod, "Is it acceptable to allow my daughter to go?" Hinata looked at her father confused, Sakura just as confused
"Of course, we have had a difference of opinion. Unfortunately, it is one that we just could not overcome." Sakura answered
Hiashi nodded, telling Hinata that she was free to leave. Leaving only the four of them, the conversation was small for the last bit of dinner. With dinner done, Neji walked with Sakura to their tearoom. With tea awaiting them, they sat a crossed from each other.
"You didn't tell uncle what happened," Neji stated
"Nope, Ino has something out for me. It shouldn't ruin your cousin's relationship with her. Plus, Hinata can handle herself from Ino."
"If she can handle Naruto, she can handle anyone." Causing Sakura to laugh, that was a true statement
"Are you ready for the clan meeting in the morning?" Changing the subject, not wanting Sakura's mood to change
Scoffing at the questions, "I guess. I've learned so much these last few weeks. Tomorrow I'll see if I can use it to my benefit!"
"You'll do fine. You absorbed the information, remembering each new week."
"You seem to have a lot of confidence in me, you don't understand how bad I did in the past."
"Well, now you have uncle and I to provide support."
"I'm glad." Sakura smiled
Sitting and talking a while longer dragging out the time. Starting to head to their rooms, the conversation flowing still. Neither noticed someone watching them, too absorbed in their conversation. Wishing each other a good night, they separated at their rooms. The clan meeting at nine.
Eating breakfast quickly, they wanted to arrive early. Leaving her student with a list of things to focus on for today, the trio left. Entering the conference room, Sakura noticed that Kakashi was there already. Going to greet him with a good morning.
"Morning Kaka." Sakura smiled, Kakashi rose to give her a hug
"Morning Sakura. The meeting didn't start until 9, didn't it?" Kakashi returned to his seat
"Yup. Even Tsunade is tired of your wallowing at the memorial, at least she got you here on time." Sakura spoke, giving a soft smile sitting beside him like normal
To both their surprise, Hiashi sat beside Sakura Neji and settled behind them. Kakashi rose an eyebrow at him, curious of his motives. "Good Morning Hatake." Hiashi greeted
"Morning Lord Hyuga. A surprise you are sitting with us lowly being." Kakashi grinned. Sakura rolled her eyes at him; he was more dramatic now than ever.
Chuckling back at Kakashi, "I am here to help. We must prove that we are a strong front, to do that we must keep the powers equal."
Kakashi looked at him skeptically, "What has happened since I've been away on a mission."
Sakura laughed, starting to tell her former sensei everything that had occurred. During parts, Sakura watched him make faces at the Hyuga that were hard to ignore. This filled the time until the start of the clan meeting, Sakura missed her conversations with the man beside her.
In due time, the clan meeting started. Just like every other clan meeting, this time it was going exceptionally well. That was until one of the older clan members began to mock the smaller clans. Most of the mocking was directed at Kakashi and Sakura.
"Our lower clans are bringing nothing to the table. They need to step up their efforts." The leader of the Hoga clan spoke
"What else would you like us to do? Many of us are shinobi or Kunoichi, who risk our lives. Many of us doing jobs that you send in, that tend to keep this village functioning." Sakura spoke, hoping that it was how Hiashi wanted her to
"Look at you little girl, when did you become so regal Hurano?" Hoga Tango spoke smugly, not even addressing her properly. Hell, he wasn't even that regal himself!
Sakura growled, biting her tongue. He was the nastiest one of the bunches, especially to the clans that were shinobis. He demanded the help yet trashed those that helped at any given moment.
"It's Miss Hurano to you. Also, maybe I am tired of your antics."
Scuffing at her, "Now? After all this time?"
Smirking, "One of us had to grow up eventually and it was clear it wasn't going to be you." Hearing a chuckle from both men beside her, then the group
Hoga sat back, watching her. "Or you're getting a good payment for sucking the Hyuga's ass."
"Watch your tongue, Hoga. Best you do not forget where some of your crops come from." Hiashi hissed
"Oh, I forgot. Yes, I am so sorry. Please forgive me Hyuga Hiashi." Sarcasm dripping from his tongue
"You don't have to grovel to me. If you had read the new update, you would have learned that Hurano-san has taken over as primary owner of those plots."
Hoga went speechless, except his eyes said it all. Knowing he would never say sorry to her, Sakura smirked at his discomfort. The rest of the clan leaders looked in their directory, surprised that the Hyuga did that. Never heard of them doing this.
"When did this occur? Is it in writing?" One of the other clan heads spoke
"Does no one read the notice that is sent out?" Hiashi asked, only seeing a few of them acknowledge him. "Pitiful. It is in writing that was turned into the Hokage, as for when that is none of your concern."
The meeting took a turn for the better, Hoga never speaking another word. It was actually a successful meeting, better than it had been since Sakura had been partaking in. Numerous problems were solved, and jobs wrote up and ready to be sent to the Hokage. Overall, it was an accomplished day. When the meeting finished, most of them were on good terms.
The five of them were the last to leave, Sakura smiling with pride. She'd done it! "Let's get some ramen! That was a victory!" Sakura smiled, leaving with Kakashi. Her arm looped through his
Hiashi followed, "We can go elsewhere, I can pay."
Sakura smiled, turning her head slightly. "It's something team seven has always done after a victory. You can go elsewhere if you wish."
Hiashi tried to hide his shocked face, never being turned down before. This was a first. The thoughts kept running, trying to keep track of them. "Very well. Lead the way Hurano-san."
Kakashi lifted his eyebrow in confusion, skeptical of the Hyuga's motives. He must have something up his sleeve, being gone for too long he'd missed what had been happening. Hoping that his student wouldn't fall into any traps, especially after pulling the stunt they did at the clan meeting. He could only imagine what the consequences could be for her if it went bad.
While they walked, they drew the attention of many. They were some of the most well-known ninjas, some having to work harder to get their name out there. The pink-haired coming from nothing to something all on her own just as her sensei did.
Arriving at the modernized ramen shop that allotted more room, they found a table. Hiashi made to move to sit beside Kakashi, leaving Neji to sit with Sakura. Sakura started up the conversation with Kakashi while they waited, it was much busier than it used to be.
"Sakura-chan! Kakashi-san! I haven't seen you two in a long time! Hyuga-sans, welcome!" Ayame smiled at her guests
"Hi, Ayame-chan! It has been a while." Sakura smiled back
"Would you like your normal? Naruto used to come and get it, said the hospital was trying to take your soul!"
Rolling her eyes, "Yes, please and thank you."
"For you?"
Taking the orders from the others, she moved quickly to the next table. Leaving the table in silence, which was unusual as of lately.
"Kakashi?" Sakura broke the silence, catching the attention of the older man
"Yes, Sakura?"
"What are they doing with Uchiha?" Asked the one person who would give her a straight answer
"That will depend. He has released some intel, that must be proven. Along with that, there will be one last person that will interrogate him."
"After all this time? Who else has to? Seems like the ones that matter have already done so." Sakura snubbed
"That is something I can't say, you know the technicalities," Kakashi spoke rubbing the back of his head. Having his reasons for not telling her, only time would allow that answer to come out.
"Anyways, did you do your physical?"
Kakashi had to chuckle, "Why would you think I wouldn't do it?"
"I've known you long enough, you hate to do your physical. I always ended up doing it in the wee hours of the morning at my place. Thanks to your hatred of hospitals." Sakura uttered
"I'll have you know that the Hokage did it herself."
"Where did she find you to do it?"
Kakashi smiled, she could tell from the crow's feet in the corner of his eye. "Before my mission briefing."
"You are a pain in the ass." Sakura spoke, flushing "Oops! Sorry Hyuga-san"
"Quite alright. It might seem unreal but there are days that I swear too. Sometimes those are the only words strong enough to express emotions. You can be yourself Hurano-san."
"I don't tend to, unless like you said they're the only ones that can get the point a crossed." Sakura smiled "Anyways, both of you have your physicals coming up. Just because I'm not at the hospital doesn't mean that I can't do them. We can do them at any time."
"Tsunade has requested me to the hospital for mine." Hiashi spoke, "How do you know my schedule?" Ayame dropped off some tea for them, rushing back around the busy restaurant.
"I used to help Lady Tsunade do paperwork from time to time. Also, as the head medic, I knew when the clan heads needed them in case of emergencies. Shizune knows them too. If there is ever a moment that we cannot reach the charts, we have to know this information. To add to it, I know my teams all of rookie nine, Sai and Yamato's. Neji became such a regular patient that he became a part of that memory." Hearing Neji scuff at her, she bounced her shoulder into him earning an eye roll
Hiashi half smiled, "The amount of information that you can retain is amazing. It tends to surprise me every time." Watched with amusement that his nephew was enjoying his time with the girl beside him.
"She was the smartest out of her group, second behind Nara Shikamaru in the academy." Kakashi beamed, finally getting to boast about his student
"It shows. It is very impressive."
"Alright, I'm still here!" Sakura smiled, turning to the boy next to her. "Neji what are you doing after lunch?"
"I have a meeting with Lady Hokage, then some errands to run. After that I am free."
"Good, I need your eyes and some input. I want to try something, that I've been working on and want to see if I can do it!"
"Okay, I will help. Where will I find you?"
"Training with my teammates."
With lunch arriving, the conversation died down. Kakashi couldn't be happier to hear those words, words he hadn't heard come from his student's mouth in a long time. He knew that this would also make the others happy, she hadn't done this in a year. Naruto would be the most excited out of all of them.
After finishing lunch, Sakura took care of the bill before anyone else could. Hiashi, not pleased with it had no other choice but to accept it. Sakura stated that it was her idea, so she would get it this once. The next time he could pay for it. Hiashi excused himself, he had other business to attend to. The three remaining left together, Kakashi took the lead allowing the younger shinobis to walk together.
"Do you think you have a mission coming up?" Sakura asked
"It's possible. Being quiet is rarely a good thing, then again ANBU is only sent out if necessary. We are a rare commodity."
"That might be because some are reckless!" Sakura smirked
"Am not!" Answered by both men walking with her, making her laugh loudly. Drawing more attention to the group
"Whatever helps you two sleep at night." Sakura finally spoke, her laughter under control
Continuing with a light conversation, Neji had to take his leave. Bidding a farewell, he disappeared. Leaving Kakashi alone with his student, wanting to ask her some questions.
"How is being a sensei?" Kakashi asked for as good a place to start as any
"It's different." Sakura started slow, "I wasn't sure if I was doing it right. I'm not sure I'll be able to do what you did, deal with genin who are clueless! But Neji was a big help giving me some reassurance that it would take time." That was the opening he was looking for
"You seem to be getting along with him."
"He's nothing like I thought he would be. Yes, he's a pain in the ass but one that I would miss if he wasn't there. We've been training each other; he's helped point out some of my problems. I still get to kick his ass with gen-jutsu, so it's just a win-win." Sakura beamed
"Good," Kakashi spoke, then stopped. Seeing the confusion on her face, "Just be careful."
"Be careful? Of what?" Sakura asked looking towards the training grounds that were so close
"I don't want to see you hurt. It's been a long time since you have opened up to anyone." This made her gasp, what was he trying to say?
"You think I like him?!"
"That's not what I said," Kakashi spoke, not drawing a blatantly obvious conclusion. "I want to see you happy, as you are now. On top of that, I want to make sure the Hyuga's are not taking advantage of you."
"You know I won't let them do that." Sakura smiled softly, "You worry too much senpai." Walking away, Kakashi caught up with her. Realizing she did like the Hyuga boy, not knowing if she'd ever admit to it or not. What Kakashi didn't realize was that it did stick in her head about liking Neji. The thought crossed her mind a while back, but she never gave into it. Of course, she enjoyed her time with him, it was ever-changing with him. No one day the same. Before her thoughts went crazy, she put them on a hiatus. Arriving at the training grounds, Naruto and Sai were there already.
"Kakashi you're lat- Sakura-chan!" Naruto's mood changed in an instant, the fury he felt for his sensei replaced with elation.
"Hey Naruto, Sai." Sakura waved, closing in on their location, "I wondered if I could join you spar? I know it's been some time."
"Of course, ugly! We have missed you." Sai gave one of his rare smiles
"Hell yeah!" Naruto leaped, placing his arms around him "She's my partner today!"
No one fought Naruto. One it was easier that way and second, with this being Sakura's first time in a long time joining them they couldn't take that happiness away. With their sparing started, it didn't last long before they were fooling around. Kakashi sat in a tree-like normal, reading his book but keeping an eye on what was happening. Sai joined him at the base of the trunk, creating drawings. After some time, Neji joined the onlookers. Watching how relaxed Sakura was, the duo was laughing just chasing each other. Neji could finally see that she was letting out her true personality.
"Don't hurt her," Kakashi spoke, he'd moved behind Neji. Leaving Sai oblivious to the conversation
"Hn. I don't know what you mean." Neji spoke annoyed at being called out
"Oh, yes you do. If she doesn't hurt you, I will." Kakashi left him to go stand beside Sakura who had finally stopped when she noticed Neji enter their training field
"Why did we stop?" Naruto asked, watching his friend beckon Neji and Sai over.
"I need your help. This will sound ludicrous, but I need you to throw all the weapons you have at me. Neji I need you to watch me." Sakura began, watching their faces "I know what it sounds like, please trust me. I need your help."
Naruto looked skeptical, while Sai and Kakashi were preparing themselves. Neji looked on at the different features they had.
"I'll do it. Only if you promise to explain when this is done." Naruto spoke, giving her a slight glare
"You know I will," Sakura answered, watching her teammates disappear before her. Watching Neji activate his kekkei Genkai, he gave a nod before he too disappeared. Taking a deep breath, trying her best to focus on what was to happen. Finding their signatures, she waited until the right moment. As soon as it came, it was go time. With her teammates throwing all they had, she pushed the chakra through her arms. Just as she'd been practicing, then adding the spin. Creating a mimicked chakra barricade, she only felt a few hit her. Slowing down, she found herself surrounded by her group. Each with questions that wanted answers.
"Sakura-chan, what was that?" Naruto asked first
"It was a theory of mine that was proven, well what do you think Neji?" Sakura turned to him
"It was proved wrong and right," Neji smirked
"I don't understand," Naruto whined
"I've been learning the ways of the byakugan to help Hanabi. To compensate for what I don't have, I've been working to find inventive ways to do so. Being as many can only expel chakra from their feet and hands." Sakura explained
"However, with your precise control, you could do so with your entire arm." Neji spoke the remainder of the thought
"Wow," Naruto spoke, hopefully understanding some of it
"Good job ugly!" Sai gave his fake smile
"Thanks, it's a bit tiring." Sakura gave a half-hearted smile
"Well done, Sakura." Kakashi spoke finally. "Go home, relax." He ruffled her hair
Batting his hand away with a laugh, "Thank you for the help. I forgot how much fun it was to spar with you guys."
"We've missed you too!" Naruto engulfed his pink-haired friend, which elicited a laugh from her
Releasing her, she promised to come to spar more often. Neji and Sakura took their leave. After they'd left the training grounds, Neji did a once over on Sakura. Make sure that she'd healed herself and he caught a glimpse of her eyes. He'd never noticed how green they were until that moment. She was growing into womanhood, and it was treating her nicely.
"Neji?" He finally heard her
"Hai?"
"You were staring at me, is something the matter?"
"No, just making sure you healed yourself."
"Of course, I did." Sakura smiled, "My arms are a bit sore; the pain should go away. Are you going away?"
Listening carefully, he thought he'd heard something in her voice. What it was he wasn't sure, brushing it away. "No, I do have a mission in a day."
"Oh, will you be away long?"
"No, I get to come home at night."
Sakura nodded, feeling a rush of relief. She'd been enjoying their time together; in a way, she didn't want it to end curtly. The remainder of the walk was held in silence, both deep in thought. Their thoughts pondering what Kakashi spoke to each of them about, having it blatantly obvious yet in denial. Once back, Sakura announced she wanted a shower. Neji led them to their rooms, leaving Sakura to her business. Sakura was left alone with thoughts that hadn't begun to plague her until Kakashi spoke up.
Neji was still hot on her mind, having him give her a once over was unsettling. Sure, he'd looked at her before, just this time seemed more- invasive. It was like his eyes could see through her, read what she was thinking. He had been looking at her too long to just be making sure she was healed. Could he like her? No. He wasn't called the most eligible bachelor for no reason, the nurses talked. Taking care of his family was his main priority. In a way, he was also looking out and caring for her.
Now that her thoughts were running, the gloves that he gave her, buying her lunches once and a while. She knew him, yet at the same time, she couldn't think of his favorite food or even favorite color. Was she reading too much into this? Getting out of the shower, throwing on a towel, and placing her hair in one, she set out on a mission. Clearly not taking into consideration of her spur-of-the-moment thought.
Her body moved before her thoughts could keep up, heading to the room next door. Knocking on the door, "Neji!" She called to him
Answering the door, "Sakura, what do I owe this pleasure for?" Taking in her appearance, not wanting to admit it but she was definitely attractive
"What should I make of you buying me items, then the random lunches we've been on?" Sakura asked
"I have wanted to be an exceptional host and friend," Neji spoke spur of the moment, not sure himself
"Oh," Sakura spoke, standing there pondering her thoughts.
Neji watched her, wondering if she even believed his words. Watching her eyes, he could tell she was going over their conversation. Leaning on his door frame, he took a moment to take in her appearance. Not sure if he'd ever get this chance again, especially ogling her as he was.
"Sakura?" Neji finally spoke, gaining her attention
"Hai?" Looking up to him
"You might want to think of putting on some clothes," Neji smirked, trying to deter the flame that was on the back of his neck
"Oh!" Clutching the towel that was dangerously small, just a tad tighter. Moving back into her room and shutting the door harder than anticipated. Leaning against the door, she went over the past few moments. Damn her for not thinking before doing it! That was something hard for her to do, especially if Neji was a part of her thought. Maybe she really did like him.
Calming herself down, she moved to dress. Sitting at her table, that's when she found a scroll from Tsunade. She was needed in a day, giving it a read-through. The scroll was vague. Hearing the knocking on her door, she felt the blush returning.
"Come in." She spoke, making every effort to keep composure
"Are you decent?" She could hear the smirk in his tone
"Hai!" Sneering at the door, watching the handsome Hyuga come into her room. Watched him walk over to her, leaning down while placing a palm on her desk.
"I also don't know why I've done what I've done. I've considered you my friend for a while, even while you were my medic. Always listening, even when you thought I wasn't."
Sakura looked at him shocked, the blush prominent on her face. This was very un-Neji-like. "Thank you, I consider you a close friend."
Watching him move in, his lips moved next to her ear. "Next time when you have a question for me, either come fully clothed or with nothing at all." Standing straight, he saw the blush moving to new parts of her body. Liking how he could do that; he wasn't sure what he felt but he was enjoying it. It was clear that she was too, yet he didn't want to pursue it. Not wanting to destroy what they had. Moving to her door, he announced that it was dinner time, then left her to her thoughts.
Shell-shocked didn't even cover how she was feeling. Did he really say that- to her? She must have misheard him! There were no other possible solutions. Getting up, knowing that she shouldn't be late. Hurrying she met up with Hinata who was also just getting there, who commented on her flushed face. State she'd just gotten out of a hot shower to relieve some sore muscles. Thankfully she seemed to accept it.
Dinner flew by, everything from earlier left her. Being enthusiastic about going to talk to Tsunade, wondering what she wanted from her. Making sure that they understood that she was enjoying teaching, she was glad to hear from her mentor. With dinner finishing up, Hiashi left quickly as he tended to. Hanabi was still chatty, proud of what she'd made it to.
"As you should be, the more you grow the better you'll get." Sakura smiled
"I know. I just want basic knowledge; I can't imagine being a medic. It can burden people." Hanabi explained her thoughts.
"Hanabi! That's rude!" Hinata scolded her
"Hinata, it's fine. It can definitely be a burden. It can even feel isolated, however, that's true with all things. Sometimes you have to take a step back to remember yourself." Sakura spoke, speaking from experience. "I'm going to get ready for bed, I have to meet with Tsunade at 9."
"I'll walk you to your room." Hinata smiled
Sakura bade goodnight to her student and then Neji. That didn't happen without a hint of a blush to the apples of her cheeks. Hinata led them out to the gardens, Sakura looked at her puzzled. Taking in the beautiful evening, she relaxed with her friend.
"Naruto told me about today, I'm impressed! I also heard that my cousin was impressed." Hinata began "I'm not an expert medic-nin like yourself. I do know you can heal your sore muscles. Your cheeks were flushed for another reason."
Chuckling, Hinata had grown so much. Reading her like a book, almost like Naruto could. Almost. "I'm not entirely sure, to be honest. Once I can figure it out, I'll let you know."
"I'm always here if you need me. Naruto as well."
"I know, thank you. Sometimes it's better to figure out your problems before talking about them"
"That's understandable." Hinata started to lead them in the direction of Sakura's room. Leaving her with a goodnight.
Getting ready for bed, she was exhausted. The jutsu took a lot out of her. Hopefully doing it more, would build up her tolerance. Climbing into bed, noticing on the side table there was a vase of cherry blossoms. Thinking it odd, she was just too tired to care at the moment. She would have to remember to ask in the morning.
Waking up late, Sakura rushed around. Noticing the time, she'd missed breakfast. Leaving a note, she hurried to not miss the meeting. It was unbelievable she had slept so long; she was surprised that no one even woke her. Maybe they tried and she didn't answer so they gave up? Almost time, making this trip countless times. It just wasn't normally from the Hyuga compound. While pushing her legs harder, she felt the pain in her arms return. Knowing there wasn't time to worry about that, she saw the tower come into view.
Arriving just in time, Shizune ushered her in. Tsunade and the familiar ANBU man were present, greeting her. Taking the seat a crossed from Tsunade, she said her good mornings.
"Good Morning Tsunade-shishou, ANBU-sama."
"Sakura," Tsunade spoke, pulling out two glasses then her sake. Filling both, she handed one to her student, watching her student's face turn from shock to confusion
"Arigotō? It's still early." Sakura spoke
"I have a two-day mission for you, about eight hours each day," Tsunade spoke, downing her drink and pouring another one.
"Of course, I can do it. So, I take it that I have done good as of late and can start doing missions again?" Sakura asked optimistically, she was starting to miss missions
"Not-. You have done a wonderful job; however, this mission is different." Sakura watched her sensei. She never fumbled over words, "This one will be one of the hardest yet, it is an S-ranked. This is why an ANBU will be present. You start after this mission briefing."
"S-rank? How can I do that? I just made a Jōnin a few months ago. So, what the hell am I doing?"
Watching her mentor take a deep breath in, "You will be interrogating one Uchiha Sasuke."
(I hope you've enjoyed this chapter! I left an update on my Tumblr (clueless-writer)for this story, go check it out! Let me know what you think so far! I uploaded this quickly so I might have missed some mistakes and I'm sorry for that. Be safe ~DQ
P.S. Sorry that it's late, I tried to get it to upload Friday morning but it wouldn't and it was an important day.)