Chunin
Sasuke lay staring at the ceiling. He'd been in his family's prison for four days now. The only person he'd seen was Kakashi-sensei. Sakura hadn't been back since that first day and he thought he was going to go insane. It was so damn quiet!
"FUUUUUCCCCKKKKK!" He screamed in frustration and isolation. Whenever Kakashi brought him his rations, he spoke not a word only stared at him. So far he'd been able to remain silent but not anymore. If someone didn't speak to him soon…
Sasuke got off the bed and dropped to the floor to do some pushups. One hundred pushups turned into one hundred sit-ups then some shadow fighting. He couldn't decide if it was Naruto he was fighting or himself. Finally after about three hours of intense training he slumped back down on his bed. His body felt better and the hard work had cleared his mind. Tired he let himself sleep and this time rest.
"Sasuke? Sasuke?" He heard a soft voice call out to him and at first turned from the sound but then jerked awake. Somebody's talking to me! "Sakura!" He tumbled off the cot and rushed to the cell door and stopped just short of touching it.
"Hey!" His dark eyes devoured her. Pink hair, green eyes, the dark red of her shirt and she smelled of fresh air and grass. Sasuke breathed deeply soaking in her presence.
She blinked. He looks so eager! He's starving for conversation. I shouldn't have stayed away so long. Sakura smiled at him. "I'm glad you're doing okay. You look much better." She moved the chair Kakashi-sensei had let her bring close to the bars and sat down. "Sorry I haven't been by."
Sasuke just waved a hand and dropped to the floor before her. "So what's been going on?" Curiosity was eating at him. Naruto.
"Hmm? Oh I don't know." At his questioning stare she continued. "After I left you I went home and haven't been out since. I needed to think Sasuke – about you, me and Naruto."
"You…don't…know? Anything?" Sasuke stared at her in disbelief. "I'm locked down here with nothing to do and no one to talk to and the one person who comes to visit has nothing to tell me!" He fell backwards hard onto the floor. "Is Naruto alright? Does he know I'm here? Does anybody? What about the rest of them? How did they take Naruto's news? Is he hated by all? Dammit Sakura! What good are you?!" He sat up again to look at her.
It hurt – his words but Sakura wasn't going to take them quietly. "Shut the hell up Sasuke!" Her voice bounced off the walls and she saw with satisfaction that she'd shocked him. "Just who's fault is it that you're here any way?!" She forcefully reminded him. "I just said I needed time and I didn't want anybody else to influence my decisions - so no I don't know anything! If you were so damned desperate for news, you just should have asked Kakashi-sensei!" The chair skidded as she stood and began to pace.
"I thought a lot about what you did and I've come to a decision. You were dead wrong to hurt him Sasuke! No matter how mad and frustrated you were – to slice open his arm? Yes, yes I know the fox healed him but he still felt that pain Sasuke and not just the kunai in his flesh but the pain of watching his best friend to do it!" Sakura held her elbows. "And I was a fool too. You were right about what you said before, I was a fool not to recognize that Naruto wasn't dangerous and as long as I've known him – he's never given me cause to fear him. I let stupid notions and the words of others affect me and I hurt him by shying away from him. I can only hope he will forgive me a second time for being so stupid." She shook her head at her folly.
Sasuke stood then walked to a wall and leaned back against it. "So you'll make up with him? …What about me? Where do I fit Sakura?"
Sakura went back to her chair and sat down. "That's up to you isn't it? If Naruto can forgive me, we can go on being a team. I think Kakashi-sensei is prepared to disband this squad if we can't work things out." She leaned forward. "Can't you let this go Sasuke? The two of you are almost like brothers! Whenever either of you has needed help the other was there to back you up! You guys spent time together and talked. You've shared things with each other you've never told anyone else! Forget the fox! The Nine-Tailed Fox won't be there when you need a friend but Naruto will! Choose us over revenge Sasuke!" Sakura pleaded with him.
"I don't know that I can." Sasuke said quietly after several minutes of silence. "I need to kill Itachi and the fox's chakra would let me do that. I just have to kill Naruto." He didn't look at her but at the fan on the opposite wall. "I'd have to raid the Hokage's archives and find the right way to kill him then make the fox mine." There was something other worldly and scary about the way he was talking of killing Naruto. "If I couldn't find the answers here, then I'd have to find them and then kidnap Naruto. Huh, but where to hide him? Better to get the answers first then kidnap Naruto. I've been wondering if it will be painful for him – removing the chakra. Would he plead for his life or just die quietly?"
Sasuke smiled so quickly that Sakura wondered if it had happened at all. "Sasuke – do you truly want to kill Naruto?" Her horror could not be mistaken.
He looked at her. "Yes. No. I've got all these thoughts in my head. I've thought long and hard about him being dead. I see his lifeless body, cold dead eyes and his laughter silenced forever." A laugh or sob escaped him. "That image and knowing that I would be the cause haunts me but there's something even scarier Sakura!" He moved to stand before her. "What if I fail to kill him? What if instead I let loose the Nine-Tailed Fox and he kills Naruto from the inside out? The demon would take his body and kill using his face. That smile we all know would be used as people died and villages were destroyed. I could really turn him into a monster and destroy everything." Sasuke, seeking punishment for his thoughts, reached for the bars.
"Sasuke No!" Sakura knocked over the chair as Sasuke touched the bars then flew back so hard that he dented the wall. "Sasuke! Kakashi-sensei!"
The Jonin was there with her in seconds. "Damn fool!" Hurriedly he released the seal and unlocked the door. Both of them rushed in. Sasuke had fallen onto his cot but his head was bleeding from the impact. "Go get the med-kit Sakura!" Gently he shifted Sasuke to make him more comfortable. The teen was still conscious.
"So you can talk?" Sasuke grinned through his pain. He gripped the man's vest. "Tell me sensei…do they all think I'm a criminal? Does Naruto…hate me? He should!" his grin turned into a grimace.
"Shh, Sasuke! No one knows you're here, not even Naruto. And no he doesn't hate you Sasuke. It would be better for him if he did because then he could forget about you but he can't. You were his brother and you viciously turned on him. Part of his spirit is broken and only you can fix it."
Sasuke stared up at Kakashi. I turned on him exactly like Itachi did to me! I vowed to kill him but Naruto…"He doesn't want me dead?" He groaned. Sakura had returned and was trying to stop the bleeding.
"Naruto? Want your life?" Kakashi asked incredulously. "No Sasuke. He wants you to live. Live and settle things with Itachi so that finally you can be happy one day. He'd watch you in silence and smile with pleasure the day you're free of revenge then leave part of his heart with you, wish you a happy life never to bother you again. Don't you know that?! Hell all you'd have to do was ask and he'd help you get your revenge! Open your eyes Sasuke! Your brother is Naruto!" Kakashi's hands were hard on Sasuke's arms shaking him slightly.
"Sasuke your family is right here in Konoha. All of your history and traditions are here. The people who care about you are here. Don't go chasing after someone who doesn't know the meaning of family or love when everything you need is here. Please Sasuke." Sakura cupped his jaw staring down into his eyes.
He held onto Kakashi as Sakura finished bandaging his head. Tears streamed down his face. Kill Naruto to kill Itachi. Kill Naruto to kill Itachi. Kill them and live – alone. Who would love me, who would care once they're both dead? Naruto wants my happiness as I did for him. Itachi wants my death as I want his. Life. Naruto. Death. Itachi. Life – Naruto. Death – Itachi.
"I need to think. Some time. I need a little more time." Sasuke's eyes were closing as they lay him down but he still held onto Kakashi. "Don't tell them – I'm here and…keep Naruto…safe…" He drifted off, the pain in his head and heart along with his tired body making staying awake impossible.
They left him not speaking a word to each other and went back to the small office. "Send someone over from the hospital will you? Make sure he didn't do any more damage." Kakashi asked of Sakura as he sat heavily down in the chair behind the desk.
"Of course. Kakashi-sensei, do you think we got through to him? I don't want to loose him to Itachi." She though of what Sasuke had done to himself and why. "Naruto's the one isn't he? He's the one who can change things for us – for all of us." Sakura shook her head thinking of the impact one person could have on so many lives.
"Only if you let him Sakura." Kakashi smiled. "Will you see him while you're at the hospital?"
"No, not yet. I want to face him with a smile and give him a great big hug. I also want to find out what everyone else is thinking, maybe I can talk to those who were like me and change their minds. We've got a festival coming and I want us all to enjoy it!" She walked to her sensei and gave him a kiss on his cheek. "Thanks for pointing out my faults – normal is for the birds! See you later Kakashi-sensei!" Sakura's step was light as she ran up the stairs.
"Naruto the Nine-Tailed Fox. Nah, Naruto the boy who could survive the impossible! Just you wait Naruto, things will be better before you know it!" Kakashi sighed then with a smile leaned back in his chair.
Sakura did stop by the hospital but only to make Kakashi-sensei's request for someone to go to the jail and check on a prisoner. Her steps wandered towards the elevator but never made it. "No, I won't go alone. I'll bring all of our friends Naruto. You'll see - you won't loose anyone important to you – not if I can help it." She promised heading for Ino's. Not finding her friend at home, Sakura went to the flower shop.
"Hey Ino!" The girl was just leaving so Sakura ran to catch up to her.
Warily Ino stopped and waited for Sakura. The two had always had an on/off relationship but now with the news about Naruto, Ino wondered if they could be friends at all. Probably not. "Sakura." The two girls stared at each other trying to judge the other's expression and frame of mind.
"Can we talk Ino? About Naruto?" Sakura finally asked and saw Ino stiffen.
Ino started walking at a brisk pace. "What's to talk about? I want nothing more to do with him!"
Sakura stayed on her heels noticing that people were staring. Grabbing Ino's arm she jerked the girl to a stop then pulled her away from the busy street. Ino struggled at first but allowed Sakura to pull her along to somewhere less public. For a moment she'd forgotten that speaking about Naruto out loud like that was forbidden. Just another reason to forget him!
They ended up out in one of the training areas. It was lunch time so it was empty. Sakura looked at Ino's defiant face knowing she had a battle before her.
"He's the same person Ino. So now you know he's got some power, that's it." Sakura began rationally.
"Power! Yes, yes he's got enough power to kill us all! He's dangerous Sakura even you should realize that!"
"Ino! He's never threatened any of us with that power. Look I admit, when I first heard the news I was afraid of him too." Sakura let Ino see the truth in her eyes then hung her head. "I'm ashamed I ever thought that but I took some time to think it over. I made a vow to him - to be his friend and protect him and I will Ino. I will. Naruto's important to me – I hadn't realized just how much until I thought of what life would be without him in it." Sakura smiled. "He's funny and he can always make me laugh. Ino, he's strong too and I don't mean the fox's chakra. I mean his heart! We were all mean to him in school and not just us but nearly everyone around him but he didn't let it break him! Admit it Ino he grew on you too didn't he?" Sakura was smiling trying to get a positive response from her friend.
Ino's face remained impassive. "You're delusional Sakura. He is a boy with the ability to destroy. We have seen him use that power. If he gets angry just once about anything the fox can appear and kill us all. I don't understand why he's been allowed to live. I really don't!" Ino yelled when Sakura looked at her in surprise. "If I thought I could, I'd kill him in his sleep and be done with it! He is a threat to me! To you! To everyone and I will have nothing more to do with him!" Defiant, Ino crossed her arms and stared at Sakura.
"You'd kill him?" Sakura backed away.
"Yes! He should have died as a baby and saved all of us the worry!" Ino paced now. "For some unknown, stupid-assed reason, Shikamaru and Choji are like you! They still see that thing as a friend! Well not me! Might as well just shut up Sakura because nothing you say will change my mind! Naruto is dead to me! Now if only I could make it a reality!" She smiled evilly until Sakura slapped it away.
"You bitch! You're right, stay away from him. Naruto deserves better than you and your selfishness Ino!" Both girls were breathing hard glaring at each other. Sakura's hand was still up while Ino covered her stinging cheek.
"Bitch, am I? Well we'll see who lives when he looses control! It will be me because I'll be long gone!" Ino retorted then looked around. "So where's Sasuke? I don't see him here pleading Naruto's case." Her smile was hard as she saw Sakura look away. "He doesn't trust Naruto anymore either! Does he Sakura?" Her voice was smug as she questioned the other girl.
"No as usual you're wrong! Sasuke's having difficulty accepting that Naruto has so much power that's all! He does not fear Naruto nor is he scared of him or want him dead! That's just your demented brain thinking that!" Sakura turned away before she said more. Sasuke didn't want people knowing what he'd done. That was between them – Squad 7 and nobody else needed to know.
"Whatever but if Sasuke does start to hate Naruto then that's something we'll share – leaving you out in the cold. I'll be there for Sasuke. He'll be mine and all you'll have is a friendship with a monster!" Ino gloated thinking of the possibilities. With Sasuke's skills – killing Naruto would be no problem!
Sakura looked at Ino's face. Normally she denied Ino's good looks for she was a pretty girl but this time her fear, hate and spite truly made her ugly. Is this what Naruto saw when he looked at me? Please forgive me Naruto! "I doubt that Ino. Even if Sasuke turns away from Naruto, he wouldn't choose you. He's got much better taste than that." Spinning on her heel, Sakura walked away. Shikamaru and Choji, hmm? Probably Lee too. I'll go to them and find out who else still believes in Naruto!
Naruto was headed home. Mama T had just released him from the hospital. It was mid-morning and instead of just walking home, he traveled over the rooftops. This was partially to test his body and to avoid anyone he might meet. Tomorrow morning he, Dad and Pervy Sage would be leaving. There was still a week left before the festival but he wanted to be long gone before the village began decorating for it.
Seeing that his street wasn't overly crowded, he dropped down to the ground to walk the last little bit. When he got home, he had to pack and probably clean up since he hadn't been home in weeks then he was heading over to Hinata's for lunch with her family and hopefully they'd find some time to be alone before going to Mama T's. He was to spend the night with her since it was his last day in the village.
Naruto smiled as he neared his building. He wished he had a little more time. It was only as he approached it did he realize how much he missed his home. Suddenly the sound of rapid barking reached his ears. Naruto looked around wondering if something was up then from around a corner, Akamaru appeared.
The dog skidded in the dirt then seeing Naruto, headed for him full tilt. Naruto looked back briefly but he was the only one there so the dog must be headed for him. Smiling he leaned down in time for the dog to jump him. Naruto fell over backwards as the happy animal attacked his face with multiple licks.
He laughed happily and allowed the dog to do as he liked for a while. Finally, his hands grabbed at the dog and he tried to sit up but a rapidly wagging tail made that difficult. "Nice to see you too Akamaru! Oh man, let me up!" Finally the dog backed up enough for Naruto to sit up. It was with Naruto sitting in the middle of the street stroking his dog and Akamaru playfully jumping over Naruto that Kiba found them.
They'd been walking near the hospital when Akamaru started barking excitedly. Kiba hadn't even thought of Naruto and before he realized it, his dog had taken off. Since it was obviously someone Akamaru knew, Kiba let him run on ahead. He could follow the barking easily.
To see Akamaru jumping, barking and happily letting Naruto touch him, filled Kiba with fear, hate and resentment. He approached them silently, fists clenched. "AKAMARU! GET AWAY FROM HIM! TAKE YOUR HANDS OFF MY DOG - NOW!" Kiba growled, back bent, claws and fangs ready to attack.
Naruto flinched visibly. Smile vanished and laughter died. He cautiously removed his hands from the dog. "It was good to see you Akamaru. You'd better go on now." His heart beat rapidly in his chest. Not once did he look up to see Kiba's face but focused only on the dog or the ground.
Akamaru whined up at Naruto. He looked over his shoulder at his master and barked angrily. The dog couldn't believe that Kiba was so fearful of Naruto. Usually Kiba trusted his instincts and he knew Naruto wasn't dangerous.
"Akamaru – Come! Now!" Kiba yelled. He was bristling with the urge to attack Naruto before he could attack him. It didn't matter that Naruto sat with his hands in the air and his head down. It's probably just a trick!
Akamaru turned once more to Naruto and jumped up resting his paws on Naruto's chest. He rubbed his head against Naruto's jaw, gave him one last lick then backed away. He went to Kiba head and tail low - he wasn't happy at all.
Kiba calmed down some once Akamaru was at his side again. "Stay away from him Akamaru. I mean it – never again. That goes for you too!" He stiffened as Naruto got to his feet and dusted himself off. Kiba kept waiting to see the red eyes and claws to signify the fox's emergence.
Naruto was breathing hard not from anger but hurt. His hand shook as he reached for the bag holding his stuff. Throwing it over his shoulder, head still down he headed for Kiba.
Kiba quickly moved to the other side of the street and pulled out a kunai. He crouched down and waited for Naruto's attack. Looking around he saw there were a few people frowning at him and he wanted to yell at them to run but Naruto was coming closer.
He saw his feet inside his sandals. Right, left, right left. Ten more paces and he would be home. Naruto could feel the waves of fear as he got closer to Kiba. He recognized the sound of a knife being pulled and prepared himself for an attack. Sasuke had taught him to be prepared. He would do nothing to Kiba but if the boy tried anything – he would protect himself.
Heavy thick silence filled the street. Nerves were taunt as Naruto slowly and carefully approached Kiba. As they watched, Naruto paused directly in front of Kiba still facing away from him. "Kiba – I, so long Kiba." He wanted to say more to defend himself but what was the point. Naruto shook his head then kept moving. Hand on the railing he went up the steps, to the door of his apartment then inside quietly closing the door behind him.
"What was all that about?"
"He was going to attack that other boy for just playing with his dog!"
"Really? And he's a ninja!"
"Ninja attacking another ninja. Maybe we should report this."
"That other kid did nothing wrong and he handled himself well. Looked really upset too."
The talking went on as Kiba put away his kunai. There was a hint of shame in his movements. He flipped up the hood on his coat, snapped his fingers for Akamaru to follow and started walking away.
They don't know what he is! I was right in everything I did! Naruto has enough chakra to kill all of them – if they only knew! It was on the tip of his tongue to tell them the Nine-Tailed Fox was alive and well inside Naruto but a low growl stopped him. Looking down he could see Akamaru shake his head. Kiba swallowed hard at the bile in his throat. Again, Akamaru was looking out for Naruto. He was made to look the villain when all he was doing was protecting the village.
As he walked and endured the looks and harsh words of the people, an image of Naruto's face came to his mind. Hurt. He'd looked hurt. Kiba shook himself forcing away the image. You got nothing to be upset about Naruto! If only you were dead then the rest of us could live in peace!
Teen and dog headed for home. They'd been together and best friends from the beginning but now the wall that was Naruto was keeping them from being one.
Naruto closed and locked the door. He never locked his door but he wanted to be alone. He dropped his bag, stripped off his dusty clothes and got in the shower. Naruto did his best to wash away the pain Kiba's reaction had caused. Once dressed he noticed that someone had cleaned his place so he didn't have that to distract him. The only thing left to do was pack his duffel. There was still time left after that before heading to Hinata's and going out seemed like a really bad idea so he lay down on the bed.
He would not cry because he'd already shed too many tears. It was what he'd expected from the start and the fact that it had happened was normal. He just had to remind himself of the few that had decided stand by him. Also, he would be gone by this time tomorrow and he could just be himself without worry or fear.
Lying quietly he began to think about Sasuke and Sakura. He hadn't heard from or seen either of them for days. Sasuke - well he tried not to think too much about Sasuke but he had hoped to hear from Sakura. "Guess they'll be relieved not to have me around next week. The two of them will be Squad 7 from now on." Naruto sat up. "I should find Kakashi-sensei and let him know I'll be gone for a while and that he should look for my replacement too." Naruto rested his elbows on his knees and stared at the floor. Somebody else would challenge Sasuke and be his friend. Someone else would join Sakura in teasing Kakashi-sensei. Naruto could feel the emotion rising up in him when there was a knock at his door.
Blinking he stared at it. "Only someone who wants to see me would knock, right?" Standing, he cautiously crossed the room to the door. His hand and went to his thigh. Kiba, just a short while ago, almost attacked him. "Who is it?"
Kakashi had been smiling since he learned that Naruto had been released from the hospital but Naruto's wary query had him frowning. "Open up Naruto it's me!"
"Kakashi-sensei! I was just thinking about you!" Naruto dropped his hand but not before Kakashi noticed. Hastily he waved him in. "Good timing. I need to tell you that I'm leaving the village tomorrow."
Kakashi had been about to sit down but stood up again. He went to Naruto and took his shoulders. "Leaving Konoha? But Naruto -." He stopped when the teen laughed.
"I'll be gone about three weeks. I'm going on a little trip with Dad and Pervy Sage. I am coming back. The only way you'll get rid of me is if you guys throw me out." He placed a hand over one of Kakashi's arms. "Thanks for worrying." He broke away to go stare out the window not willing look the man when he said these next words. "I enjoyed being on Squad 7 but you should probably start looking for my replacement. Things would be – awkward if I stayed. Of course as a Chunin without a team, there may not be many missions for me. I haven't a clue what Mama T will do." He shrugged his shoulders. "I'm going to miss you guys." Naruto finished off quietly.
Kakashi took a breath. Naruto had scared him there for a moment. He'd thought Naruto was leaving for good. Now he was talking of leaving the squad. Kakashi joined Naruto by the bed and draped a long arm around the teen. "You'll miss the ceremony."
"That's the whole point and I know I made the right decision." Naruto's voice was flat.
"What happened before I got here?" Thinking about it, Kakashi recalled Naruto's caution when opening the door and he had also noticed some tracks in the dirt outside like there had been a scuffle. He leaned forward to check Naruto out but he looked okay. "Something happened Naruto – tell me." When the boy shook his head, Kakashi squeezed his shoulder and brought him closer. "Tell me." He coaxed.
Naruto had hoped not to tell anyone but with very few words, told his sensei of the encounter with Kiba. "I'm leaving before the ceremony to avoid more scenes like that one. As it is there may still be some friction in the other squads like with Shino and Hinata. They've chosen to still be my friends and Kiba can't be happy about that. I've even split up my own squad and the others aren't in much better shape." Unconsciously he leaned against Kakashi.
"I see but Naruto you haven't done anything wrong. Everybody makes their own decisions – you're not responsible for anything someone else says or does. And why are you talking about leaving the squad? I've seen Sakura and Sasuke and neither of them have said a word about that."
Naruto inhaled sharply and looked up at him. "You don't seem to be lying – telling me what I want to hear but I find it hard to believe after what's happened." He pulled away to sit cross-legged on the bed. "No, I won't believe it. I can't, not right now." Naruto shook his head.
"Naruto, why not? Sakura's –." He stopped when Naruto held up a hand.
"I don't want to know. Really, I don't. I'm going to spend the afternoon with Hinata and her family and the night with Mama T. Things with them are good – better than I could have hoped and that's all I want to think about. No what ifs and maybes or in times. Kakashi-sensei," Naruto looked at the man, one eye covered, silvered hair slanted to one side and face half covered with a mask. He smiled, "One day you're going to have to explain that mask!" Naruto laughed. "We'll decide about Squad 7 when I get back, okay?" The laugh quietly disappeared.
"Don't you even want to know what Sasuke's thinking?" Kakashi didn't want Naruto to remember only Sasuke's betrayal. "He's been doing some soul searching Naruto, about you and Itachi." Kakashi grabbed a chair, turned it around and leaned his arms on the back of it.
"Good for Sasuke but who hasn't been soul searching this week? Seems like that's all I've been doing since I woke up in the hospital and I'm ready to let it go. I'm going to get to know my Dad better. I'm going to let Pervy Sage talk me into doing crazy stuff and probably get chased by some girl's boyfriend or something. I'm going to miss my girlfriend and come up with things we can do together and I'm going to be happy that Shikamaru, Choji, Shino, Lee and Neji are people I know will be in my life when I come back. That's all I want right now Kakashi-sensei. Kakashi – I should try that out huh? Just in case." Naruto tilted his head, a small smile on his face.
Kakashi opened his mouth then let out a sigh. He'd been keeping a close watch on Sasuke so he hadn't been with Naruto much. The circumstances of his life always seemed to age him in certain ways. Yes, Naruto was usually a big kid but when came down the important stuff – relationships and emotions, he was older than most people twice his age. Looking at Naruto now he saw a hint of weariness in the boy's shoulders and some lines under his eyes.
"Okay but the ceremony Naruto. I was looking forward to seeing you stand up there proudly, grinning like you just saved the world!" They both laughed at that.
"It's just a ceremony. I did my part in the mission and now have the rank of Chunin besides Hinata's going to plan a party for when I get back. Come to that, where I know I'll be accepted by the people there and I'll laugh and grin all you want - promise." Naruto uncrossed his legs and scooted forward. "One more favor, Kakashi – don't tell them I'm leaving. No scenes, I'm just going to go with my Dad, kiss Ma and Hinata and take off. Kakashi-sensei?" He added the sensei back to appeal to his teacher.
Kakashi knew Sakura was totally in Naruto's corner and he wanted Naruto to know that. But Sakura could get really emotional sometimes and it looked as if Naruto had found some peace – the girl could take that away from him without even trying, no matter her good intentions. And Sasuke was still trying to make up his mind about his life and Kakashi thought that important enough to keep this news about Naruto leaving to himself. "You got it. I won't say a word until after you're gone, okay?"
Naruto sighed in relief. He held out his hand to Kakashi. "Thank you."
"You're welcome." Kakashi took Naruto's between both of his. The bond of sensei and pupil seemed to expand. They were friends in this moment. "So your leg healed pretty quickly didn't it. Lady Tsunade try something different?" When Naruto laughed with reluctant humor, Kakashi knew he was in for a good story and relaxed to enjoy it.
"Seriously, your dad…he's great." Naruto said and squeezed Hinata. She sat between his legs, his arms around her waist. "He scared me to death at first but then he gave me a chance – not just words but he talked to me! I know I can count on him just as much as my Dad." Naruto used his chin to move her hair and kissed her temple.
Hinata took one of his hands and laced their fingers. "I know. He really took to you. Father often asks about you and the two of us, I've never been this close to my father before. It's all because of you Naruto." She turned to meet his lips with her own.
They were in a private corner of her garden beneath a tree. Time had flown by during lunch. Everybody was in a good mood with Naruto out of the hospital. He was his usual self joking around and making them laugh. Naruto even got them to play games that Hanabi would enjoy – kid stuff. Lord Hiashi had claimed it was the best time that he could remember having with his children.
The teens had hoped to sneak away for some love play but they'd been having too much fun so now as the sun dipped in the sky, they sat together in the garden until it was time for Naruto to go to his mother's.
"I'm missing you already." Naruto picked her up and turned Hinata until she was in his lap. His blue eyes traced her eyebrows, lavender eyes, high cheek bones and her soft lips. "Do you how important you are to me? What I feel when we're together? This world, my world now has a sun no matter if its day or night." Naruto grinned. "Listen to me with the fancy words! But I mean it Hinata. I don't feel alone all the time now. I just think of you and everything seems…right." He leaned forward to catch her tears with his lips.
Hinata closed her eyes savoring his touch on her face. She cupped his jaw and stroked it. "They're nice words, very nice. They fill my heart, oh Naruto!" She threw her arms around his shoulders and held him. "I don't want you to go!" The words were said against his neck.
Naruto rocked her. The weight of her was comforting and sexy. Her breasts pressed against him allowing him to feel her heartbeat. There was so much about Hinata to love and he hated making her feel sad. "It's only for a little while…but I'll stay if you ask me to." Naruto spoke quietly as he watched some fireflies. Two of them flew before his eyes buzzing around each other.
She gasped. For one long moment she considered it. Hinata cupped his head then kissed his neck. She lingered in one spot for a long time. "There, I've marked you as mine." Hinata looked at the hickey on his neck. "It's not a wound so the fox shouldn't remove it, right?" She watched then smiled to see that it stayed. Finally she looked up at him. "I want to ask but I won't. You need to get away, I understand that. So go and spend some time with Iruka and Master Jiraiya. I can't imagine all the crazy things you guys will do!" She laughed. "Have fun Naruto. You were happy today but still you're upset about Sasuke and Sakura. Your eyes aren't as bright. If you can, forget what happened and remember us who haven't left you – no matter how hard you tried to get me to leave!" And she pinched him.
"Oww Babe!" But he grinned remembering he'd asked her remind him not push her away. "Thanks Hinata and I'll try my best. I'll have Dad all to myself, he can just be dad and not everyone's favorite sensei, although I'm glad and proud he's a favorite. Who knows, maybe I'll find him a girlfriend?" He laughed. "Then he can be as happy as I am." Naruto's hands stroked her back and hips. "Kiss me Hinata. Make me miss you so much that I'll run home to you."
"My pleasure and maybe when you come home…maybe we can really love each other? I'm ready to be with you Naruto." Her lavender eyes searched his face. She blinked when he laughed.
"You always have to be one step ahead of me don't you?! Just can't let me – the guy – make the first move! And you used to be so shy." Naruto's eyes were bright again as cupped her breasts. "I'm ready too Hinata and if we weren't here so close to your family, I'd have you naked and getting a little sample of what you're promising!" He pushed her to the ground and kissed her hungrily.
Hinata arched into his touch and laughed softly when he let her breathe. "Seems like you are taking a sample!" She took him between her thighs, letting him rest there tempting them both but it was also comforting.
Naruto, being close to her neck, decide to mark her as well. "So I won't forget my place." They looked at each other. "I should be leaving, Mama T's waiting. Will you see me off tomorrow? I want to see you – know what's waiting for me when I leave."
"Mm-hmm. Hold me Naruto – just a little longer!" Hinata pulled him back to her. They stayed that for a while with the smell of grass and flowers beneath the stars and the twinkling of fireflies.
Tsunade walked beneath his arm. When did he grow the few inches to be taller than me? She looked up Naruto. He was calm if a bit sleepy. Together they'd fixed supper which had been funny since she wasn't that great a cook either but they'd managed something edible.
Naruto had asked her about growing up the granddaughter of the Hokage and she spent many hours telling him stories of the first and second Hokage and his uncle, her brother who'd died. When the photos were put away, they'd sat together and watched some late night TV. He'd fallen asleep with his head on her lap and Tsunade hadn't felt such tenderness since before Nawaki had left her.
She'd woken him a few hours later so he could shower and eat. Now it was four in the morning, still dark and most of the village was still asleep. Naruto had wanted to leave without people seeing him.
"Listen to your father and not Jiraiya! And please don't do anything to embarrass me! I don't want reports from neighboring villages speaking about a blond menace. I double checked your duffle and packed more underwear and deodorant. Just because you'll be sleeping outdoors doesn't mean you have to smell like an animal. Try to eat some vegetables Naruto. I hope Iruka will make sure of that. And be careful! You have the most amazing knack for finding trouble!" Tsunade stopped when Naruto could no longer hold in his laughter.
"Yes, Mama!" Naruto hugged her to his side. "Did you worry Uncle Nawaki this much?" It was a little annoying but it pleased him too.
"Ha, ha and yes I did! You just make sure you listen to me!" Tsunade said quietly.
Naruto stopped, he faced her. "I will." He promised just as quietly then grinned at her. "I hope you enjoy your vacation. With me and Pervy Sage gone – it'll be down right quiet around here!" He leaned close to hug her. "Relax and enjoy the quiet. I'll be back to bug you before too long."
"I'm counting on that!" Tsunade had to laugh at him. "Come on, your father's waiting." Still bound together they walked to the main gates.
"Hey, what's this?" Naruto slowed down. Just outside the gate stood Pervy Sage, his dad, Hinata, her dad, Neji, Shikamaru, Lee, Shino, Choji and Kakashi. "What are you guys doing here?" He left his mother's side moving to stand before his friends.
Shikamaru shrugged. "What? We can't wish a friend a safe trip? I'll miss you at the ceremony Naruto." He slapped Naruto's shoulder.
"That's right! You didn't get one – a ceremony! Congrats Shikamaru! It's a little late but you'll finally get to stand before the village as a Chunin!" Naruto laughed and pumped Shikamaru's hand enthusiastically.
Shikamaru laughed too. The fool was happy for him. Naruto was going to miss his chance to do the same but he was genuinely happy for him. "Thanks Naruto."
"Naruto! I think you should stay!" Lee confronted him then softened. "You do what you need to do Naruto. I too will miss you; the festival will be dull without you. Guy-sensei and I will win some prizes for you. Would you like that?"
"Yeah, I would. See ya around Lee." Naruto shook his head with humor.
"Naruto, a favor? If you could keep an eye out for this beetle," Shino handed him a sketch. "They hatch this time of year but don't stay long in one place. I would love it if you would bring one back for me – if you see one."
"Uh, okay." Naruto frowned – he wasn't big on bugs but he'd try. "Alive?" He asked and several laughed.
"Yes Naruto." Shino's tone was the equivalent of 'duh'. "Chunin Naruto, I look forward to your return." He bowed slightly.
Choji handed Naruto a bag. "You won't get to enjoy the foods from the festival so I packed you a survival kit. Just the essentials – chips, candy, some doughnuts and other stuff." He looked really sad to be parting with the bag then looked Naruto in the eye. "It's a shame you think you have to leave but she would be a pain. Of course she can be a pain at any time. Forget that stuff and have fun Naruto. We'll have an eating contest when you get back."
"You got it Choji and thanks for this." Naruto nodded at the food and grinned back at Tsunade. She had taken away his junk food but thanks to Choji, he had twice as much as he'd been deprived of. Her frown only made him hold onto the bag tighter.
"Naruto – son, I'm looking forward to your return. You listen to Iruka and come back to us safely okay? My daughter will not be pleased if you hurt yourself." Lord Hiashi then bowed before Naruto. "I'm quite proud of you Uzumaki Naruto."
"Thank you sir." Naruto retuned the bow.
"Naruto." Neji stood before him now. "I am sorry not to share this festival with you. Have a good journey and we will see you when you come home." The two shook hands.
Quietly he went to Kakashi. "Sensei…you'll look after them?" He meant Sasuke and Sakura.
"Of course and you take care of yourself." Kakashi handed Naruto a small leather pouch. "Thought you should have something since you're missing your ceremony." He waited expectantly.
With a shy smile Naruto looked up him then down at the pouch. Carefully he opened it to reveal a pair of gloves like the one's Kakashi wore. They were fingerless and had the metal hand guards on the back.
Naruto was speechless. He looked up smiling at Kakashi then impulsively hugged him. "Thank you. I'll use them on every mission!"
Kakashi was embarrassed but he returned the hug. "No problem Naruto. Enjoy your trip."
"Look Mama T!" Naruto showed Tsunade. His smile lit the dark morning.
"It's a wonderful gift." She nodded to Kakashi. "Now give me a big hug then go to Hinata." Tsunade laughed when he almost knocked her down with his bear hug. She kissed his mouth lightly then pushed him away. "Remember everything I told you!"
The others gave them some space but watched as the two said nothing. Hinata stood on tiptoe to hug him and Naruto picked her up. After several minutes, they kissed lovingly. Naruto put her down. Looking at each other they spoke loudly but no words left their lips.
"I love you." He said. "I love you too." She said. Another hug then they parted and he went to stand between Jiraiya and Iruka.
"Don't get too comfortable, I'll be back large and in charge!" Naruto smiled that smile, folded his arms behind his head and took the lead. Jiraiya and Iruka both hurried to get in front of him and everyone watched and laughed as the three men playfully fought to be in front.
Kakashi waited for Sakura on the bridge. He'd sent her a message to meet him there. He wanted to tell her about Naruto before she decided to go looking for him. Shikamaru had told him that she'd talked to him yesterday. The girl was really out to help Naruto keep all his friends. Kakashi just hoped she would forgive Naruto for taking off without telling her.
"Sensei!" Sakura waved at him and rushed to his side. "Hey, what's up? Is there a mission?" She wondered how it would go with only the two of them since Sasuke was in jail and Naruto was in the hospital.
"Sakura." He said then leaned one elbow on the railing. "No we don't have a job yet. You haven't tried to see Naruto yet have you?"
"No mission? Good." She smiled. "I want all of us together for missions." Sakura turned to look down into the water. "No, not yet. I talked to Ino yesterday and she told me that she would kill Naruto if she could. Do you believe that?! I couldn't believe she'd say that let alone think it!" She looked at Kakashi's reflection. "I took the news badly too but to want Naruto dead…" Sakura covered her heart. "I couldn't convince her that he wouldn't harm her - her mind was set. I also learned that Kiba had the same feelings as Ino but I couldn't deal with that reaction again so I thought I'd try and talk to Tenten and maybe get her to be tolerant of Naruto if nothing else. I'm trying to figure out the best way to approach her. I'd like to be able to tell Naruto some good news when I see him as well as beg for his forgiveness." She shook at her head at her foolish actions.
"Well I hope things go well with Tenten but you won't be seeing Naruto for a while." Kakashi began.
"What?! Did something happen to him?! Kakashi- sensei!" She grabbed his wrist then let go and started to run.
Kakashi moved quickly to stop her. "Wait! He's not in the hospital anymore!" He had to catch her as her knees gave out then he realized what she must be thinking. "Naurto's okay! He's alive Sakura! He's alive." Kakashi shook her.
"Y-you're sure?" If he died thinking the worst of me…Naruto… Again she tried to pull away but Kakashi held her tight. "Let me go! Is he at home? Lady Tsunade's? Iruka's? With Hinata? Let go!" She tried in vain to get away from him.
"Be still and listen to me Sakura!" Kakashi yelled in her face. The hard tone finally got the girl's attention. "Naruto is fine. All his injuries have healed and he was released from the hospital yesterday but he's not in the village. This morning, he left Konoha."
"Because of us? Me and Sasuke? He left because he thinks we hate him?" Sakura's eyes filled with tears.
"No Sakura. Stop guessing and let me explain!" Holding the girl up, he walked with her to a bench on the river bank and sat down with her. "You said it yourself Sakura - Kiba and Ino are taking the news of the fox very badly. So badly in fact that he worried it would cause problems during the ceremony and festival not to mention between teammates so he wanted to take off for a while.
"He, Iruka and Master Jiraiya are taking a little vacation for about three weeks. Naruto just wanted to breathe freely. He was feeling the pressure of how his news was affecting everybody. He thought he'd give himself and the rest of you guys time to deal with the changes. Naruto will be back." Kakashi was turned so that he could see her face. The emotions flowed across her face as the river flowed by them. "Don't fret so Sakura. Naruto was in good spirits when we saw him off this morning. A lot of people showed up to wish him a safe journey and let him know that he had people who cared, people who're waiting for him to come back."
Sakura blinked several times. "Who was there?" Her mouth opened as Kakashi named all the people Naruto had said goodbye to. "They all knew he was leaving?" Sakura sat with one hand over her mouth for a minute. "Naruto didn't want to see me did he? He still thinks I fear him and he didn't want to see me. Damn."
Kakashi knew she must be hurting and felt for her but he understood Naruto's feelings as well. "I told him Sakura. I told him you were getting over your fear. He told me he believed me but he just didn't want to get into any of it again. He wanted to leave on a good note. Shikamaru and the others knew of his decision to leave the day he decided. The only ones he expected to say goodbye to were Lady Tsunade and Hinata. Everyone else showed up on their own." Kakashi shrugged. "As I did. I couldn't let him leave without letting him know he'd be missed." Kakashi sat back and looked up at the clear sky. "He was himself again but more. No more secret to hide and he had friends who didn't care about the fox. Man, he's grown so much! I think he's a little quieter than before but since he's lost the fear of you guys finding out about the fox – he stands a little taller. Naruto knows where he stands and it's not as terrible a place as he feared it would be." Kakashi smiled. He was proud of that boy! Lady Tsunade had called him Naruto's uncle – well now he felt like he was!
It often surprised Sakura the emotions she could see on Kakashi-sensei's face despite it being half covered with a mask. He was remembering Naruto as he was that morning and he looked happy. Sakura sat up and wiped away her tears. "Okay, I get it. He went off with a smile instead of covered in my tears and worrying about me. That's okay because when he returns, he'll have one more person to welcome him home and if I can pound some sense into the others – well Naruto won't ever have to leave his home again. Right Sensei?" Her smile was still sad but she'd bounce back - just like Naruto.
Kakashi patted her shoulder. "Let's hope so Sakura. I'd like to see you three as the best of friends. As shinobi we lead hard lives. It's our friends and comrades that keep us moving and gives a reason to live." He stood and stretched. "I think you should talk to Hinata. She's planning a party for Naruto since he's missing the ceremony. Could be she can help you and Naruto clear the waters."
Sakura nodded, "I'll do that."
Sasuke slipped in and out of consciousness for the next several days. Touching the bars and hitting his head had caused a concussion. He also ran a slight fever. His symptoms caused him to dream of his family. His father had always been so pleased with Itachi and the amazing things he could do at such a young age. As the younger brother, he hadn't been able to compete. Sasuke had tried to be like Itachi and achieved much but could never get his Father's attention. He'd lived in the same house but as far as his father was concerned, Sasuke need never have been born. His mother of course was where he'd found the love. She had been his touchstone.
In his fevered state Sasuke called out for his mother but never could he feel her loving touch but sometimes someone was there giving him water or wiping him down but the touch was cold and impersonal. He yearned for more. His team often appeared in his dreams as well. The three of them then his family. He wondered if maybe he should have let his team become his family. They weren't blood. They weren't Uchihas. He worked with Kakashi, Sakura and Naruto. Ninjas didn't need to have ties because their work was so dangerous but if ninjas shunned marriage and family – there would be no ninjas.
One dream had him calling out for Itachi. He chased his brother through streets littered with the dead bodies of their clan. He wanted Itachi to smile at him, play with him and protect him. The need to be acknowledged by his brother was almost as great as the need to kill him and avenge the deaths of their parents. Sasuke cowered under the thin sheet as Itachi hovered over him with a sword. He didn't want to die. "Don't kill me! Please Itachi – don't kill me! You're supposed to…love me…" Sasuke whispered as he stared up into Itachi's Mangekyo Sharingan eyes.
"You're pitiful little brother. Why would I love you? Father never did, so why should I?" At these words, little Sasuke curled into a ball and cried. I'm not loved! I don't exist for Father. Itachi hates me. Mother? Mother, I need you! Love me, please love me! Somebody love me!
A smiling face replaced Itachi's cold stare. Big blue eyes twinkled and delighted laugh sounded in his ears. Naruto? Naruto. "Come on Sasuke!" Naruto stood with Kakashi and Sakura. He was waving for him to come join them.
Sasuke stared at them. They wanted him with them. There was no censure or indifference in their faces but smiling acceptance. With them he could be himself and they would still welcome him. Sasuke removed his hands from his pockets and stepped forward. When Naruto held out his hand, Sasuke reached for it then woke up.
Groggy and wet with sweat, Sasuke sat up in his silent cell. The dreams were fragmented in his mind, mixing together making them hard to remember. Seeing the red and white fans, Sasuke thought again of his family but in truth it was his mother, maybe a few aunts and uncles that he truly missed. "Mother, why couldn't he have spared you?" He tried to remember if anyone had since her death had given him a sense of belonging. He thought of the people in his life now and who it was that he could possibly call his touchstone. Sakura cared, he wasn't stupid, he knew her feelings but wasn't ready or capable of returning them. Kakashi sought to keep him grounded and to teach him what he knew about the Uchihas and how to use the Sharingan but it was Naruto who welcomed him and made him smile. As complicated as their relationship was, it was simple too.
When Itachi had come for Naruto, all he'd been able to think about was saving him. Later after Itachi had beaten him badly enough to put him in the hospital, he'd woken up to see Naruto grinning at him safe and sound - all he wanted to do was kill Naruto. They had almost killed each other but then things changed. For a long time they'd avoided each other but as time went on and they continued to go on missions, the hurt and pain of that fight was forgotten. Somehow they grew closer and were friends.
"God, I'm such an idiot. Naruto you must have rubbed off on me!" Sasuke smiled sadly. He'd done so damn much to ruin things between them. The prized Sharingan of the Uchihas' had been hidden behind a haze of darkness called Itachi not allowing him to see the truth. He'd let his desire to kill Itachi direct his every thought. Sasuke shuddered to think that he'd actually been contemplating killing Naruto. His life wouldn't have been worth living if Naruto's blood stained his hands yet again.
"I need to see him. I've got to talk to Naruto!" Shakily Sasuke got up and walked to the cell door. Seeing his morning rations, he knew Kakashi-sensei wouldn't be back before evening. His only hope was that Sakura would come by. "Dammit!" He went back to his cot. Time passed so slowly here! "What day is it? Somebody - anybody! I've got to talk to Naruto!" Naruto, will you talk to me? How can I ever make things right between us? Can I? Will you let me? Sasuke dropped his aching head into his hands. His body was weak so he fell over onto his side. As he lay there in misery, his thoughts chased after the boy who could redeem him. "Naruto." It was a whisper but sounded loudly in Sasuke's heart and mind.