Chapter 9 Reunion
Two mighty looking shinobi stood still in front of the Hokage. One has radiant blond hair and cheerful blue eyes. The other had a fine toned abdomen and a passive but attractive face. The Hokage felt pride for these two, they are probably one of the best in the world.
"It's been awhile, Naruto, Sai." The two nodded in agreement. "I called you both here for a very important reason." Breathing in she finally stated. "He's back and currently staying in Sakura's residence."
"Nani?!" screeched the blonde. The brunette could only distort his face in disgust. "Well Naruto, I did promise her. A Hokage keeps the honor of his words." The blonde crossed his arms. "She most likely won't remember what she asked of you Oba-chan." The brunette kept still. "He can't harm her, if he ever will, we know death will come to him first." The Hokage replied.
"Tsunade-sama, you think it will be best if he stays with her?" The blonde man eyed the speaker. "You agree to this? I can't believe you!" The brunette remained unfazed. "We all know she loved him. I don't know if feelings can be carried over even if the memory is gone, but Hokage-sama, do you think it would be best for her?" the brunette reiterated.
Naruto was getting more irritated. "Sai, I thought you hated this guy more than anyone will?" He accused. "And aren't you supposed to be the brother like best friend? " retorted Sai. "I didn't say I agree to this. But the Hokage has a word to keep and so does everyone else." Sai looked at the Hokage pleadingly. "Is it for the best Hokage-sama?"
"I don't know also Sai, but when I saw her reaction as she looks at Sasuke, I just felt it had to be right." The brunette could only stay silent. "So I guess we have no choice but to let teme live with her." Naruto blurted out. 'Fine, but he better not do anything stupid or else I'll tear him limb from limb."
"As if he'll let you stupid" The other boy retorted. "Whose side are you on anyway smiley?" There was a loud thump. "Enough arguing, my decision is final so live with it. If he messes things up he'll regret it. And if any of you smart asses try to provoke him, I'll make sure to torture twice the pain. Understood?" Both young men stopped bickering and at the same time uttered. "Understood"
"Good, now go visit Sakura, have ramen or do whatever you want. Just don't make a scene with the Uchiha."
Upon leaving the Hokage tower. "Sai, where are you off to?" his comrade queried. 'I'll go see Sakura, its noon so lunch break is up." Naruto stretched his arms. "I'll go stuff myself in Icharaku first and catch up on you guys later."
As the two young shinobi parted ways, Sai hurriedly ran to the hospital. Seeing it's facade in view he couldn't help but smile. As he comes near, there was a familiar dangerous aura in the vicinity. He had felt it before and he knew perfectly well who it was from. Slowing down his tracks he came face to face with the owner of the aura. "What are you doing here Uchiha?"
"So your back, just like I am. I have things to accomplish that you will never understand." The other answered. "What I meant was, why are you here by the hospital? Are you waiting for her?" Sai spoke trying to keep his cool.
"Is there an issue if I am?" Sasuke answered challengingly. "We had a deal if you need to refresh your memory." Sai emphasized. "Me, being here doesn't mean any form of affection." The Uchiha snorted. "But I can never be sure if it will lead to it." Sai crossed his arms. "You're living with her what am I supposed to think?"
"How could you look so low at her? And you call yourself friend?" Sasuke questioned. "After all you have done you still go back to her? What do you take her for?" Sai asked back. "I didn't ask her, the Hokage arranged it and she agreed." Things began to tense up between the two men. "You could have at least the decency to decline. You are a selfish bastard."
Sasuke didn't like the way Sai is accussing him of things. And Sai is not happy that Sasuke is trying to get back into Sakura's life. "If only I didn't get orders from the Hokage I will be beating his body into a pulp by now." Sai thought. "I must remain calm or else it will be the death of me." Sasuke said to himself as he tried to keep his composure.
"Sai! You're back!" a cheery voice came out of nowhere. Sai saw Sakura running briskly to him. In a few seconds she lunged on him like an excited child. "I missed you!" she stated while giving Sai a tight embrace. In return, the stoic boy hugged her in return. "It's been awhile beautiful."
Sasuke was clueless on what to make out of this scene. He had no right to feel any sort of emotion. However an alien feeling of irritation, he didn't want her holding him. He didn't want him, calling her beautiful and hugging back just the same. What on earth was wrong with him?
Sakura and Sai let go of each when the rosette haired girl noticed the Uchiha was there. "Sasuke it's nice of you to be here, come I'll introduce you to my friend." He could only shrug and pretend nothing is bothering him. "Sasuke this is Sai, he's the artist friend of mine I told you about." Sasuke nodded. "So you're the one who made the sketches of Sakura in her living room."
"Your's truly, besides being a shinobi, I do have other talents." The other replied proudly. "Sai, Naruto just came back too right?" Sakura queried. "He went ahead to Icharaku. I decided to come by and drag you along with me." Sakura smiled "Sure! Sasuke come with us."
Sasuke was suddenly disturbed with the question. For some reason he has always been confident of Sakura forgiving him. He knew Kakashi would be very mature despite his perverseness in accepting him. He wouldn't careless of what Sai has to say, However, Naruto is different. He has always been unpredictable, can be either dumb or wise depending on his mood. He wasn't sure if he was ready to face his memories again. Having ramen with them in Icharaku might trigger more complicated feelings for him. Then again, he can't be a coward now. His journey has been long, all that he had endured are but giants to the memory he is going to confront now.
Sakura was puzzled why Sasuke cannot answer a simple question. Living with him is quite a unique experience. He often stayed silent but very observant. He looks dangerous but there is a hidden gentleness in him she can't pinpoint. "Well Sasuke are you coming?"
There she goes again. He might as well go along the flow. If he wants their full cooperation for the benefit of his revenge, he might as well try to gain their trust. He can't have their friendship back after all that has happened. He just had to be satisfied with their acquaintance. "Sure, if Sai and your other friend won't mind."
Sai knew the Uchiha was playing along. He might as well do the same. There is no sense in making things more messed up. "I don't mind and I'm sure Naruto will be glad to see you." Assured the other boy.
Three shinobi's went on their way. The strength of their aura cannot be denied. There was a dangerous and dark intent, in the same time there is a calm indifferent atmosphere and everything is balanced a light healing gentleness.
They have finally reached Icharaku. It was noticeable that a young blond man was finishing his tenth bowl of ramen. "Are you that hungry Naruto?" a soft female voice said. "Sakura-chan! It's been awhile." Naruto stood up from where he was sitting. From that view he saw him, the long lost Uchiha his treacherous non-biological brother. He decided not to comment. For all he knows Sakura might not remember they knew each other. He might still be boisterous, but a bit wiser no less. "Naruto, I would like to introduce Sasuke."
"Nice meeting you Sasuke." He held out his hand. The Uchiha took his hand and both are in an engaged in a tight handshake. Naruto wanted to crush the Uchiha's hand. It would only be a fraction of the hurt he and Sakura felt when he decided to leave. Sasuke noticed the vice like grip, but decided to let it pass. He had every right to be angry. Actually he was expecting a punch from him. It's surprising how the years have taught Naruto manners. "Join me in my table you guys." The blond stated as he let go Sasuke's hand.
The four settled in their seats and decided to order. "So Sasuke what brings you here to Konoha?" the blond queried. "I have official business to attend to." was the quick reply. "What do you want from Konoha?" Sai followed up. "I need help in pursuing my goal. Konoha will be vital in its completion."
"So you're just going to use us?" Naruto blurted out of a sudden. Sasuke decided to stay calm. "That's a mean question Naruto." Sakura interrupted. " Konoha will gain something from me too, it's a two way deal."
"That is if you know how to keep a deal." Sai suddenly said. Sasuke quirked an eyebrow. "I do keep my word. Even if it'll be the death of me." came a statement with a conviction. "I hold on you on that." Sai confirmed.
The ramen was served and each talked about their missions. Sasuke was not surprised to know that Naruto and Sai are now both captains of different ANBU teams. That the two are always personally handpicked for S-class missions. He discovered Sakura frequently stays in Konoha to attend to everyone's medical needs. Though when worst comes to worst she gets deployed when shinobi's need her the most.
"Yo, Naruto, Sai its good to see you back." That last sounding voice could only be coming but from one person only. "I was walking through the road of life and it brought me to my dear students and trusted ally." He grinned under his mask. "Mind if I join you?"
"Come join us Kakashi-sensei." Sakura offered whole heartedly. She never grew out of calling her sensei. Naruto does too. In truth he likes it that way, it gives them a connection. Kakashi had always been proud of his two students. As for Sasuke, they had a lot of things to settle. Though he admired his sincerity in not betraying Konoha after Orochimaru was killed. He pitied his quest for vengeance and power. Sasuke would never allow himself to be happy, it was a sad thought since the young man could have had it all.
"Kakashi sensei, you said Sasuke was once your student when was it? Because from what I remember, Naruto and I are your only students whom you passed." She had always been quick on her wit. "Like what I told you before Sakura. Sasuke's life is classified information. If you want to know things, he has to tell you himself." Kakashi just can't tell her the truth, she had been so happy all this time. She has finally gotten a new life, no sense in messing it up.
"There is no need to put Kakashi on the spot. I will tell you about it Sakura in due time. As for now, let's leave things as it is." The Uchiha reconfirmed. "Some things are better off unknown Sakura. Being ignorant is bliss in certain occasions." Sai stated. "You should just worry about yourself Sakura-chan. You just met him, so there is no sense in trying to get involved in his life. Sasuke seems to be a private person. Let's just give him privacy." Naruto added.
Her friends made sense, but a nagging feeling inside is telling her they are hiding something. However, whatever those things are, she can live not knowing. Her life won't revolve around Uchiha Sasuke so there is no use in prying more.
"Well Sasuke how will Konoha help you in your goal?" Naruto challenged. " Konoha is the target of my goal, when it comes to claim Konoha, I'll be here to stop it." The Uchiha explained. "So you want to play hero." Sai stated. "I cannot be a hero, more of a sacrificial lamb is more like it."
"Is Tsunade Shihou pushing you to do this?" The Uchiha swayed his head. "I want to do this, for memories which need to be placed to peace and to find salvation for myself." Kakashi tapped Sasuke's shoulder. "You can't solely save yourself. Even a hero needs company to lead him to victory." Sasuke just smirked. " Like I said I am not a hero but a sacrifice. Sacrifices can stand alone in return of a crowd."
Sai placed his chopsticks down. "So you think you are worthy to be Konoha's sacrifice? Are you that sanctified?" Sai's tone was challenging. True Sasuke was never perfect, his hands are stained with blood. He wouldn't be an example of a pure sacrificial lamb but "I have to do this, it's the least I could do for Konoha." was his response.
"Do you have other goals beside what you're aiming right now? What if you don't achieve the second goal because the first stopped you." Naruto asked. "The first is my priority, so at the moment that's all that matters."
Sakura was confused. Sai and Naruto just met Sasuke and they seem to bombard him with questions. She never asked Sasuke anything during his stay at her home. She seemed to enjoy the silence between them. Sakura is pleased enough when he does the other chores at home. When he picks her up after work and spars with her every dawn. Every sunrise was meaningful to her when they are together, even if he never uttered a word about his past or plans. Sakura is pleased enough when he does the other chores at home. When he picks her up after work and spars with her every dawn. Every sunrise was meaningful to her when they are together, even if he never uttered a word about his past or plans.
"My, my you young ones speak too much serious topics." Kakashi teased. "Why don't we all have good clean fun and spar with each other tomorrow morning?" he inquired. 'Sounds good to me." Naruto cracked his fists. "I'm going to beat the crap out of you teme."
" I don't mind" Sai agreed. "I need refresh his memory of our deal." Kakashi eyed Sakura. "Would you be with us Sasuke?" Sakura asked. The Uchiha nodded in agreement. "It's settled then, I'll meet you guys at training grounds tomorrow." Kakashi concluded. "Yes Sensei we will be there." Sakura glanced her watch. "Oh dear I'll be running late please excuse me." She was digging her pocket for cash when. 'Don't worry about it Sakura, I'll pay for it." Sai offered. She muttered a word of thanks with a sweet smile.
Sakura was about to walk away when "Sakura, can I see you tonight after work?" The rosette girl looked back. "Sure Sai, just drop by." Sasuke almost broke his chopsticks. Naruto grinned. "Now you know what your missing teme."
When Sakura was out of sight. "Sasuke-teme don't you dare lay a finger on her." Sasuke shrugged. "I have no intentions of getting involved with her." Naruto humphed " You better keep it that way. Her life was better without you." That statement has hurt him more than he had expected. "Stop bickering Naruto, since Godaime gave Uchiha a chance, just let him enjoy his chance." Sai interrupted. "As long as you leave Sakura alone, we won't have problems."
"Now, now boys, Sakura is very important to us. She is our princess so Sasuke understands your point. Right Sasuke?" Kakashi said trying to ease the tension. "Yes I perfectly understand."
"It's better if everything is clear." Naruto finished. "Sai would you like to pay for mine too?" he teased. "You've been an S-class mission pay for it yourself." Sai answered irately. Paying their bills they went on their separate ways.
Kakashi decided to walk alongside Sasuke. "Are you happy now Sasuke?" Sasuke decided not to comment. "If you plan on telling her anything, I advice you to be gentle and leave the part of the one side affection." Sasuke remained silent. "Sasuke, I only wish for your peace. But please while you can, don't drag her further in getting involved with you."
"What do you want me to do Kakashi?" He was confused and angry inside. "Leave her apartment, you can stay at my place or I'll even find you an apartment." Kakashi offered. "You all want me out of her life." He nonchalantly stated. "We have a reason to Sasuke."
"Fine, get me an apartment and I'll be moving out as soon as I can." Both halted in their strides. "Consider it done." In a puff of smoke Kakashi was gone.
Continuing his walk, Sasuke passed by the park and saw the bench where she left her unconscious. His past has finally confronted him again. The present bombarded him of undeniable truths. He was out of her life now. He doesn't know if he will live long enough to get to know the new her. But it wasn't his priority. He began to feel a wave of frustration in him. He couldn't wait for tomorrow's sparring match.
"I'll beat the crap out of those two losers."
Wow! This was my longest chapter as of yet. So what do you guys say? Just click the review button and tell me your rants and raves. And since this is the ninth chapter
I'll be hoping to get ten reviews as an inspiration for the tenth chapter he,he.. (just wishful thinking)
Thanks again guys.