Search and Find
Most of the new Chunins were there. Ino, Kiba and Shino were missing but the rest had gathered once again at the academy in the same room they had planned their attack on the Shin-Takeo. They were waiting on Lady Tsunade. She'd locked herself away to await word from the men she'd sent out. When they returned, then she would know what to do.
It had been early evening when the news that it was Naruto and Sasuke that the enemy was after spread throughout the village. For the shinobi, it mattered not who it was in trouble, only that they wanted to do what they could to prevent them from being taken or killed. With the villagers who were in the know, the feelings were mixed. Some cared little for the goings on of the ninja around them except when it came to their own protection and for two young ninja, still novices…they cared more for the next day's weather. As for the rest of the villagers, it was basically split into three categories. Some wanted to save Sasuke and let the enemy have Naruto while the others thought both boys were worthy of rescue.
Normally at this time of night, the streets were emptying as people went home to their families but there was a buzz tonight because of all the commotion earlier.
Unfortunately for Hinata, as she walked with Sasuke by her side, they encountered the haters. She wanted to slap each and every one of their faces as they talked about how losing Naruto would be no big loss. They said it would be a relief to finally be free of him. Hinata did her best to ignore them as Naruto did but stopped in shock when one man laughingly described how he would kill a fox.
Sasuke had been silent as he accompanied her to the academy. It seemed as if he were overly aware of her. In the past he'd been able to shrug off other people's feelings, concentrating only on himself. In a way he wished he could find that indifference again. Ever since admitting to her that he'd wanted Orochimaru's guidance and power, Sasuke felt as if he were exposed and that whatever she saw in him now was severely lacking.
Seeing so many people in the street talking about him and Naruto was disconcerting especially how many people greeted him and told him to take care while the same people spoke of Naruto being less than human and not worthy of rescue even if the Hokage called him son. He'd known this had happened to Naruto for years, had probably witnessed it but had so completely ignored Naruto's plight that it hadn't affected him. That was not the case now. He missed Naruto, he felt awful for hurting him and now Hinata. Naruto's girlfriend was hearing these awful things on top of what she'd learned about him – it was too much.
"Shut the hell up! He has never done a damn thing to hurt ANY OF YOU!!" Sasuke let his temper loose. "Naruto's my best friend and I'll be damned if I let him die for the likes you!" His voice had turned deadly soft and his eyes showed his hatred for the men and women he didn't know and hoped to never see again. "Come on Hinata, somebody threw the trash out into the street – we don't want to step in it." He gently placed a hand on her back and steered her away from the ignorant fools.
The air between them was heavy. Anger, fear and sadness from so many different angles seemed to be circling them. Just a little while ago, Hinata had learned why Orochimaru wanted Sasuke. He wanted him for his distinctive Uchiha abilities and she learned how Sasuke had almost turned his back on Konoha to take what the snake had offered.
For revenge against Itachi, for power – like that of Naruto's and greater, Sasuke would have turned his back on all of them to become the pawn of one of the most dangerous men Konoha had ever come up against. Orochimaru had/has plans for him and his Uchiha abilities.
Sasuke knew Orochimaru wouldn't just give extraordinary power without expecting something in return. A tingle down his spine made him supremely grateful that Kakashi had come along that day to stop him from running away. Still that little encounter reminded him of just how much an ass he'd been for most of his life. There were others in this world that'd suffered great tragedy and hadn't let it consume them like he had.
If Orochimaru had gotten a hold of him, there's no telling if the village would have survived another attack and without a doubt, he and Naruto would have fought until either one or both of them were dead.
"I guess I should say thank you but I could have handled it myself!" Hinata said quietly as she watched her feet move. I'd have killed them! "These people are so…stupid! They choose to believe a lie. A lie they themselves made up!" Hinata shivered in the night air and folded her arms to keep warm. "Naruto is not evil. How can they look into his blue eyes, see his smiling face and see something that isn't there?!" Her voice was thick with pain.
You go through this everyday don't you my love? I knew but I didn't know! How do you do it – walk by like you don't feel their stares or hear their words? Am I strong enough to be with you? They don't know about me yet or haven't spoken of us together. What will they say? What hurtful words will come from them and how in God's name will I endure it?! I want us together Naruto but can I withstand the pain as well as you? I don't know…I just don't know! It was crazy to be thinking these things now especially when she wasn't sure she'd ever see Naruto alive again. Covering her face, tears overflowing, Hinata ran.
After his outburst Sasuke had been lost in his own thoughts. It still amazed him – his lack of feelings in the past. He hadn't been capable of reacting when Naruto was so badly treated. He'd thought that it was Naruto's problem and Naruto always seemed to handle it but he was damned if he knew how! Sasuke smiled a sad rueful expression. He'd wondered why he hadn't been given the Nine-Tailed Fox – he simply wasn't strong enough. As well as he thought he knew Naruto, he realized that he knew nothing.
Sasuke glanced over at Hinata to see how she was handling things and was surprised to see despair on her face. She'd been so strong while Naruto had been gone. She'd let nothing get to her except missing him and even then she was always able to smile. But now her lavender eyes were spilling tears and she was shaking like a leaf. When she spoke her voice was a mixture of anger and utter sadness. He knew that man's words had hurt her but to this extent? It suddenly occurred to him that maybe she was just realizing that at some point, those bastards would talk about her just because of her love for Naruto.
Naruto and Hinata needed his strength now. They needed him. Sasuke just now understood that being needed was a good thing. It meant he had people to care about even if they found it hard to care about or forgive him. If he could help them…he would help, his heart wouldn't let him do otherwise. When Hinata suddenly took off crying, he went after her.
"Hinata!" He caught up to her and pulled her out of the street away from curious eyes. "It's going to be okay." Carefully he pulled her into his arms and awkwardly patted her back. "He won't let them take him! He wants to come home – to you." Sasuke remembered how Naruto would talk of Hinata – like she was the best gift he'd ever receive. "He's so in love with you, he won't let Kabuto stop him from coming back to be with you." He sounded absolutely sure of his words.
She needed to believe that. "Is it really strong – the fox inside him? Will it bring him back?" Hinata lifted her wet eyes to look at Sasuke. She latched onto his words, feeling guilty because she'd been thinking of her own fears instead of Naruto's safety.
Sasuke blinked and shook his head, seeing that last fight when Naruto had let the fox out. There was awe in his voice when he spoke. "Scary strong and since Naruto's life is connected to the fox's, yeah I think it will." Instead of seeing her look relieved, Hinata bit her lip looking panicked.
"I'm scared Sasuke. Naruto's so strong!" She whispered. "That, back there – everyday, every damn day! Naruto hears it and keeps going. He smiles like it doesn't mean a thing but it has to! Doesn't it? But it's only made him stronger; made him try harder…I don't know if I'm strong enough to endure it." Slim fingers clutched his shirt. "I love him – I've always loved him but I don't know if I can be the woman he needs…especially in times like these…" Hinata's hair whipped over her shoulders as she shook her head. Doubts filled her heart and mind threatening to break her.
Sasuke looked down at her shocked. What's this? Hinata's not weak like this, not anymore! Movement out of the corner of his eye had him looking up to see Neji and Tenten walking hand in hand on their way to the academy and he got it. Hinata needs him just as much as Naruto needs her. "So you'll give him up? You'll love him from a distance like before? That's kind of pitiful Hinata." He talked coldly to her. She became a statue and looked up at him, tears slowing. "So you're willing to take me on but not the people of this village? I'm a ninja, trained to kill. You'll fight me but let the words of idiots scare you into leaving Naruto? You love him? No it must be pity you feel for Naruto. A person in love wouldn't give up so damned easily! Orochimaru kill him? If you leave Naruto simply because you're scared, you might as well kill him yourself Hinata!" Sasuke shook her.
She gasped and gripped his arms. The fear she'd been feeling earlier was nothing compared to the horror of how she'd been acting just moments ago. Damn, I'm so stupid! Stupid! Stupid! Naruto could be out there fighting for his life and I'm letting words scare me! Naruto…I love you. And I will be with you – nothing will stop me! Hinata took in several deep breaths and held onto Sasuke, letting him support her. She could feel his intense gaze on her, willing her to be strong.
Hinata came back to herself as she gazed up at Sasuke. Whatever had come before – hate or jealousy was gone. Sasuke was on their side now. "You do care. Thanks Sasuke, I almost let my fears take control of me. It was just that he would have been home in a day or two then that spy, the threat to you and him, your secret and those people talking nonsense – so much at one time. I'm sorry. Naruto's not here at my side and I got scared." Carefully she put her weight back on her own two feet and reached up one hand to dash away her tears.
"I didn't know it was possible to feel so much fear. In those few minutes I was scared of everything - scared to never see Naruto again, scared to share his life, just scared of it all." One hand had still been clutching Sasuke's arm, like it was something new, her fingers slowly released him then rose to cup his jaw. "I lost my mind for a moment; thanks for bringing me back Sasuke." She was able to smile as he covered her hand on his cheek and looked embarrassed.
"Sure, that's what friends are for, right?" Relieved Sasuke watched as she shook herself and a new resolve settle into her frame.
"Right, come on. Maybe Lady Tsunade has some news." Hinata's voice was stronger but she grimaced inwardly thinking of her awful reactions just now and knowing that Lady Tsunade must be feeling some of the same things but on a much larger scale since she was the Hokage, the protector of this village and of all the people who hated her son. Just knowing that there were others in the same boat as she like Tsunade and Iruka-sensei, Hinata decided she could be strong for Naruto. He'd done it by himself for so long – it was time take some of that burden away from him.
"He's a lucky man that Naruto." Sasuke commented knowing that Hinata had recovered her strength. Love was on her face again and she looked invulnerable.
"If he is then I'm twice blessed to have him. Hurry up Sasuke! Naruto's waiting on us!" She urged then took off at run.
"Yes ma'am!" He laughed and followed her willingly. "Not much longer Naruto - you'll soon be home with your Hinata."
Shino went to Kiba's home first. His sister, Hana didn't know where he'd gone after the all clear had been given so Shino used one of his bugs to track him. It was full night now and Shino looked up at the stars wondering if Naruto was looking at the same sky. He didn't like it that a couple of hours had already gone by with no word. This talk with Kiba was long overdue. He'd hoped to wait until Naruto came home but now he was in danger and if he could, Shino wanted to prevent Kiba from possibly never getting the chance to be friends with Naruto again. He believed Kiba to be a good person – well now was the time to find out.
Akamaru alerted Kiba that someone was coming. He'd been so lost in thought that he hadn't paid the familiar sent of Shino any attention but now he sat up and waited for him. In his hand were several blades of grass. He'd been methodically pulling them up one by one as his mind focused on nothing at all. The green blades fell gently to the ground as Shino stopped beside him.
"Keeping an eye on the village?" Shino asked in that soft way of his as he looked around them. They were just inside the boundaries of Konoha Village. Kiba had gone far to be alone.
Kiba shrugged, glanced up at Shino as a bug buzzed by his nose then folded his hands behind his head and leaned back against a tree. "What brings you out here Shino? I thought you'd be getting ready to go help…Naruto." There was a bad taste in his mouth at saying that guy's name.
"I am ready. Lady Tsunade just has to call and I'll be there. I do what I can for my friends." There was a log nearby so Shino walked over to it and sat down. Placing a palm on it he could sense several species of bugs inside it knowing that they had made the old log their home. "So you will not go? If called, will you hide or run away from your responsibilities as a shinobi of Konoha? Just because it is Naruto?" Kiba hoped this was not true.
Kiba knocked his head back against the tree. This is why he'd come out here – to avoid being called upon! "Aren't there enough people willing to risk their lives for Naruto? Don't tell me no one showed up!" He laughed derisively. "It's just you guys ain't it?" He sat up smiling.
Behind his shades, Shino blinked. This Kiba was almost unrecognizable. It was as if he'd been possessed by something the way he wanted, no desired for bad things to happen to Naruto. Shino put his hands in his pockets and felt the bugs exit his pores to crawl over his skin. "We're meeting at the academy. I stopped by there to let them know I wanted to be included in the rescue. Kiba the room was completely full and spilling over into some of the other classrooms. Ibiki and his Black Ops Anbu were there, all the new Chunin but us and Ino, all of our sensei. Genma, Anko, Ebisu, Konohamaru and his friends, Ichiraku and our parents. Yes, our parents. They are there not necessarily for Naruto but for Lady Tsunade. They are there to save her child as she would be for theirs. And there were others, some from the mission to save the capital and others I've never met. Naruto is one of ours and they won't let someone take him from us!" He leaned forward earnestly.
Kiba didn't want to hear it – none of it but he bet his mother was there too. "Who says they're there for Naruto and not Sasuke? Maybe they just want to protect the last Uchiha!" He threw the words at Shino.
He had to look away from Kiba. "That's true, there are probably people there for Sasuke too or maybe they showed up for both of them. Does it matter? Sasuke will be going as well. …Something really bad happened between the two of them before Naruto left and it's eating Sasuke up inside. He's sorry and desperately wants his friend back. Sasuke is man enough to admit his mistake. Why can't you Kiba?"
"What mistake?" Kiba looked wary. "Hating that guy? That's NOT a mistake Shino! Maybe your glasses are too damned dark and you can't see that!"
Shino studied him. Kiba was acting all confident and sure but it was an act. Why was it so hard for Kiba to admit that Naruto was someone he'd admired? He'd been shocked at first like the rest of them and had reacted out of fear but enough time had passed for Kiba to come to his senses but he was too stubborn to take back his words.
"Do you fear me Kiba?" Shino stood suddenly. His demeanor had changed as if he was about to do something.
Akamaru had been lounging half asleep but now came awake, ears up and hind legs ready to jump. The dog didn't know what was going on, they were friends but Shino's chakra was building.
Kiba dropped his arms slowly. What's going on here? Has Shino come to…attack me? Has my attitude towards Naruto earned me my death? "Do I need to fear you Shino?" He got up on one knee, crouching.
"What's inside me Kiba?" Shino saw Kiba's confusion. "Tell me! What lives inside me?" He stepped forward and held out one hand towards Kiba.
Kiba blinked and leaned backwards from that extended hand. If he releases those damn bugs, I'm in trouble! "Bugs! What else? Hundreds of them! So?"
A small cloud of bugs poured out of Shino's sleeve. They hovered close to his hand never making a move towards Kiba or Akamaru. "And do you fear these bugs Kiba? They could suck you dry of chakra right here and now then I could kill you at my leisure. There wouldn't be a damn thing you could do to stop me!" A small, devious smile appeared on Shino's face.
The white dog tilted his head. It looked as if Shino was about to attack them but something was missing. Akamaru stayed alert but his legs relaxed as he intently watched what was going on between his teammates.
"I hate those damn bugs! It's freaking weird that they live inside your body but don't think you'll win that easily Shino! Fear or no, I won't be that easy to get rid of!" Kiba growled as his hand moved towards his pouch.
"Hmph, so you do fear what's inside me. We've worked on the same team for years now and despite your hate and fear of my bugs, you've left your life in my hands many times. I've saved your ass and you mine. Inside me lives a foreign entity which gives me power – more power than I would ever have on my own. Like you most people fear it and don't understand it yet I'm accepted and depended on. I am a Konoha shinobi. I live to protect this village and those I care about." Shino dropped his hand and the bugs disappeared back up into his sleeve. "Kiba, how is that any different from Naruto?"
Akamaru nodded his head knowingly. He widened his paws then rested his head between them and wondered how Kiba would respond.
Caught totally off guard Kiba froze. Shino hides his bugs from the enemy and brings them out when necessary. Naruto lives with a power hidden inside him too. "But Naruto's power…it's immense! It's totally different Shino! He can kill so easily without much effort at all!" He growled.
"And so can Orochimaru and he doesn't have the Nine-Tailed within him! Orochimaru kills for pleasure! He kills for power! Naruto – Naruto, who you've known since we were children, has never killed! You've made him into a demon with no conscious and no humanity!" Shino turned away from Kiba. He was breathing hard. It was because on some level he completely identified with Naruto that Kiba's actions bothered him so.
The night was beautiful. The skies were clear, the air cool and the atmosphere about the village calm. They were home and safe while Naruto was being hunted and plans were being made to kidnap Sasuke. How deceptive the night was.
"Despite my family being here since the founding of the village, people look at me strangely. They wonder about me. Didn't you ever wonder why we, my family and I, cover our bodies so completely? So we don't scare the other villagers. Naruto is fortunate that the fox cannot be seen. He's able to walk through the village without cover and yet he needs it more than we do when it comes to people like you Kiba." Shino looked over his shoulder at Kiba who was again sitting on the ground in stunned sort of way. "A demon resides in his body but it is not him! Naruto has put his life on the line to save his friends and this village many times. Isn't that what a shinobi is supposed to do? Isn't that what the Third Hokage taught us?" Shino really wanted Kiba to hear him.
"I -." Kiba didn't know what to say. He wanted to say the same things he'd been saying from the start but how could he without applying those same reasons to Shino and his family?
Shino went to him. He squatted down before Kiba. "I believe it's because he was able to make friends and live as normal a life as possible that Naruto has been able to control the beast within him. Kiba we believe in Naruto because he's one of us. You once thought the same yet you accuse him of things he's never done or things he could possibly do. Where's the fairness in that? And you never gave Naruto a chance to defend himself against your words. You never talked to him after you found out – you just made accusations and threats. You threatened him, not the other way around." He tried to look into Kiba's eyes but the boy wouldn't look up. "We're teammates and I've trusted you with my life but I wonder if that's possible anymore." That got Kiba's attention.
"W-what do you mean?" Wariness again flowed through him.
"If you can't see the truth of Naruto, a guy you once called friend, then how can I trust your judgment out in the field? I don't need someone around who's so stubborn that he can't admit when he's wrong. And you have made a mistake Kiba, a mistake that could cost you." Shino's words sounded loud in the quiet forest. He stood. "I'm going back. Lady Tsunade will surely have some answers by now and I want to be sure that I'm one of the ones she sends out to rescue Naruto." He thought of how strong Naruto had become and smiled. "He may not even need saving but I'll be there for him never the less – that's what friends do. Goodnight Kiba, Akamaru." Shino petted the dog as he left but looked not once at Kiba.
Kiba heard his every footstep as Shino walked away from him. Even once Shino was out of the earshot, Kiba listened for him and what he heard were Shino's words ringing loudly in his head. All this time, I never knew how Shino felt. Yeah the bugs are weird, I mean they're damn creepy but they're part of him…as is the fox in Naruto? Is that how it is? But his – its chakra… We were taught it nearly destroyed Konoha! But Naruto's always tried to protect Konoha! "Dammit how am I supposed to make sense of all this?! They say he hasn't changed that he's the same damn guy but it's also possible for him to lose himself to it! But how can I know where his mind is at when he Goes Fox?!" Kiba's arms flew up into the air.
Akamaru made a sound in his throat as if he were laughing. He barked several times at Kiba making the young man frown at him. This went on for several minutes.
"All right! Damn, shit! I'm sorry okay?!" Kiba had just gotten an earful of how stupid he was and that he should have listened and trusted his four-legged pal. If ever Naruto was going to loose it and he were around, then Akamaru would know. As for where Naruto's mind would be, who could know? That was impossible to know for any person. Not only that but he, Kiba would judge Naruto without cause had made Akamaru wonder if Kiba were jealous of the power Naruto had. When they were kids, Naruto had been such a misfit and was quite pitiful with his jutsu and now here he was – a more than capable ninja with power most people could only dream of.
"You don't have to sound so damn smug! And I'm still not saying that I'm wrong!" When Akamaru stood in disbelief, Kiba backed down. "Wait, wait – I just think that…I should explore the situation! Yeah, do a little investigating, talk to the others and…to Naruto." Kiba was pacing as Akamaru's ever alert eyes watched him. "That's not too much to ask is it? That I get my facts then make a decision? Can I do that?!" He faced his dog with his hands on his hips.
Akamaru woofed several more times quietly to Kiba reminding him of what was going on.
All fight went out of the teen. "He has to come back alive before I can get my answers. But…what if they don't want my help? I've pissed off a lot of people, including the Hokage! Damn I've got a big freaking mouth." He muttered and started pacing again. "And that thing in the street – I took things too far. Sheez, I'm an idiot."
Kiba smiled at Akamaru's quick agreement. A strong breeze forced its way through the leaves and grasses. There was the scent of the village on the wind – of people and places. "Let's go Akamaru. We need to know where to look. If Ma and Sis are there, they'll tell us, I hope. If they see I'm not the same idiot I was when I left the house then maybe."
Man and dog headed back into the village. Kiba had been so adamant about Naruto being evil and not to be trusted that for him to suddenly be offering to help may be looked upon like an opportunity for him to hurt Naruto. "I'm still not sure of him but I guess I owe him the chance to prove himself." When Akamaru barked his approval, Kiba felt better. If nothing else, he was back in his dog's good graces and that went a long way towards him wanting to help bring Naruto home.
"So you know?" Sakura looked from Hinata to Sasuke. While Naruto had been gone, she had spent a lot of time with the once shy girl and found a friendship that Sakura hadn't known she'd been lacking. There was very little competition between them. Naruto was clearly Hinata's and their ninja skills were so different that comparing them would have been silly. Since there was no competition, they were free to enjoy the other's company and find things they had in common to talk about.
Sakura had felt guilty knowing that with everything that had happened between Naruto and Sasuke there was still one secret being kept that could further hurt the trust between the men her life. Knowing that now Sasuke had completely bared himself to Hinata, she felt the need to clear her conscious as well. "I'm sorry! I promised not to tell. Besides, after that one time – he's never tried to leave. Never!" They were in a corner, the three of them sitting on the floor. Sakura had leaned close to Hinata and spoke in a hushed voice.
Hinata had a pained smile on her face. She reached out to take Sakura's hand. "I know you wouldn't lie to me Sakura and I believe Sasuke has given up on chasing after Orochimaru but I just…I just can't think about that right now. I just want Naruto home…with me." She drew in a deep breath to steam her tears. She needed to stay strong and not break down again. It had been overwhelming to walk in the room and see so many people wanting to help.
Sakura gripped Hinata's hand tightly and held in her words. This was definitely not the time to patch things up not when Hinata's nerves were so tightly wound. Sakura looked at Sasuke and saw the tension around his eyes and mouth then blinked when one of his large hands rested gently on Hinata's shoulder and stayed there.
The room was stifling even with the windows open. So many bodies in the room filled it with heat. Low intimate conversations were being held by different groups of people and many eyes often traveled to the threesome in the corner.
Kakashi stood next to them, arms crossed and eye closed. His body looked relaxed but in fact he was a waiting tiger ready to pounce. It had been enough time! The scouts should have come back with word already of Naruto's whereabouts – of some damn thing!
Naruto, you left without knowing that you still had friends. Dammit Sasuke and Sakura are sitting here worrying about you. I tried to tell you that but you wouldn't let me! Little fool! Why didn't you come home earlier, then you'd know how well liked and admired you've become by the other shinobi of Konoha. Naruto, I want to see what you can do when you have the love and support you've always craved! That fucking Kabuto! The creaking of leather could be heard if you were close enough. Inside gloves much like the one's he'd given Naruto, Kakashi's fists balled up tightly.
Sitting in a chair beside him with his arms folded over the back of it, was Guy. He'd heard the sound of the leather and could just imagine what Kakashi was going through. He knew what it was like to have a student on the edge of losing everything and wanted to do what he could to keep that from happening not only for Kakashi but for Lee as well as anyone else who was close to Naruto. Not looking at Kakashi, Guy reached out a fist and lightly punched him.
Shikamaru kept looking for Ino but it was a lost cause. The sun would come out at midnight before that girl showed up to help Naruto! He guessed what Shino was up to and wished him luck. It would be nice if they could all go as a team to rescue Naruto, well Ino wouldn't be there but ten out of eleven would show Naruto that he'd lost nothing – had actually gained something while he'd been away.
Hinata sat in-between Naruto's teammates and he again wondered what the big secret was. Did Sasuke also have a demon locked inside of him? No, that couldn't be it or he wouldn't have taken Naruto's news so badly. It had something to do with Orochimaru though - that egomaniac who wanted to learn every jutsu there was. Was that it? He wanted Sasuke's or rather the Uchiha's jutsu. If so, why couldn't he just say so?
Shikamaru caught Sasuke's eye and while he didn't look away there was a hint of shame and a plea of understanding in his eyes and Shikamaru knew he'd figured it out. He nodded and promised silently to keep this to himself. He'd said he wanted to tell Naruto first and Shikamaru understood that need – it must be hard to admit that you wanted to join up with a madman for power. It did bother Shikamaru but this wasn't the time to tackle that. Naruto was the priority and they needed to stick together so they could get him home. Anything else was secondary.
Shikamaru got up out of his seat and sauntered over to Sasuke. Without a word, he sat down next to him, a silent show of support. Choji soon followed then Team Guy. The other shinobi watched the new Chunins gather together in proud silence. Some were missing but for the most part they had banded together in this time of trouble.
It wasn't long after that when Shino entered the room. Pausing in the doorway he surveyed the room seeking Hinata. It pained him to show up alone but he'd done what he could to change Kiba's mind, the rest was up to him. He nodded to his father then went to his friend and teammate. Shino took her hand for a moment before moving to sit next to her. Despite the union of the Chunin teams, the presence of Kiba and Ino were noticeably absent.
Lord Hyuga Hiashi walked towards the Hokage's building. He'd been there when Sasuke had admitted his sins. He'd apologized but the teenager apparently hadn't forgiven himself for desiring more power. Hinata hadn't jumped down his throat but had taken the information and added it to what she knew of his and Naruto's relationship and it made entirely too much sense what happened when Sasuke found out about the Nine-Tailed Fox within Naruto. His poor daughter was still reeling with the fact that Orochimaru wanted to kill Naruto just to get Sasuke and that was the reason she didn't blame him and had allowed him to accompany her to the academy to await Lady Tsunade.
After a quick hug, he'd watched her walk away him. For years he'd worried about her. He hadn't let her see that when he focused on her little sister instead trying to make Hanabi into the Hyuga heir. Hinata had lived in the same house but raised herself. She'd become an adequate ninja – in no way standing out like her cousin Neji but she knew enough to survive and Hiashi had learned to accept that. And then came Naruto.
Naruto's love for Hinata or her love for him had changed his little girl. She was suddenly more than he'd ever dreamed possible and he couldn't be more proud of her. Naruto himself had become important to him – a future son-in-law he hoped. So many changes in such a short time. Naruto was no longer someone he was wary of or disapproved of being with his first born but a new, precious part of his family. If Naruto had become so dear to him, he could only imagine what Tsunade was feeling so it was to her he went.
Hinata had her team and her friends to keep her strong but Tsunade was alone. Iruka was with Naruto which must be some comfort that he wasn't alone but it still had to be tearing her nerves apart knowing he was in danger. Pain and fear ate at him but Tsunade had to be in much worse shape. Not only was she feeling the same as him but she had to take into consideration the village as a whole and not just one shinobi. She wasn't allowed the luxury of worrying only about her son.
Since she was alone in this, Hiashi wanted to offer Tsunade his support and give her a shoulder to lean on. Tsunade couldn't afford to appear weak or needy in front of her army of ninjas. They needed a strong leader to guide them but when she was alone and the dark threatened all sorts of catastrophes – he could be there to share in her worries and maybe keep her from falling into the dark pit that loving a child could bring.
Shizune and Tonton paced the empty Hokage's office. Lady Tsunade had locked herself away in her hospital office. It seemed she concentrated better around scalpels, alcohol and bandages. Only a half hour ago had she sent the Jonin scout over there to give his report.
Her stomach churned as she worried for Naruto and Tsunade. Mother and son were so new to each other – it just couldn't end now! Not like Nawaki! Please not that again! If Tsunade had to go through another devastating loss, it would either break her or turn her into a woman incapable of feeling anything. "Lady Tsunade…" She almost jumped out of her skin when there was a knock on the door. "C-come in! Oh Lord Hiashi!"
"Shizune." His light eyes scanned the office. "Have I missed her? I wanted…I wanted to hug her." He said simply folding his arms within his long sleeves.
Shizune blinked rapidly then sighed with understanding. "I'm sure she could use one. She's at the hospital. The order and smells there seem to calm her so she went there to think but she should be back soon. A Jonin scout came back and is there with her now."
He paused, "Did he tell you anything? No? His expression maybe?" When the woman again shook her head he sighed. Of course not, the information was for the Hokage only.
"Would you like to sit down? I can have some tea brought up." Shizune gestured at a chair when the door opened again and Tonton oinked then ran to her master.
"Tonton…" Tsunade bent low enough for the pig to jump into her arms. She squeezed the pig to her heart for a moment before realizing there was another body there besides Shizune's. "Hiashi…" She felt the tears come to her eyes when she saw his compassionate look.
"I'm here for you Tsunade, as a fellow parent and as your friend." Hiashi went to her and clasped her trembling hand. He could tell she wanted to break down but there just wasn't time.
"Shizune please let them know I'm coming. I'd like a moment alone with Lord Hiashi." Tsunade requested as she let Tonton down indicating that the pig should go as well.
"Yes My Lady." Shizune said with a bow and left to go to the academy. "Thank you Lord Hiashi." Shizune spoke as she ran out of the building.
As soon as the door closed, Hiashi pulled her into his arms. Under normal circumstances he would never do such a thing to the Hokage but this wasn't normal. They had bonded because of their children and it was Tsunade the mother who needed a friend right now.
Tsunade let him hold her. She let him feel the weakness in her muscles as they trembled and her tears as they wet his chest. Her arms snaked around his waist and held on. Tsunade let herself go and cried in his arms but only for a few moments – five minutes at the most before she pulled back. "Thank you Hiashi." She said quietly then submitted and let him dry her tears. When he was done he kissed her forehead and she closed eyes at the gentleness of it.
"Are you ready now? Hinata's ready to go find him – they all are." Hiashi once again took her hand ready to escort her and be her silent support. He had questions. Actually he was dying to know what she knew but Naruto came first. Telling him then repeating it for the others would be a waste of time. Only a few minutes more and he'd know how bad things were.
Tsunade's ample chest rose as she took in a deep breath. Using her free hand, she touched a spot on her forehead and all traces of her tears – red eyes and worry lines disappeared. Her face was once more young and determined. "Ready." With a flash of green and a flash of white, they moved quickly to the academy.
They were on their feet waiting on her. Ranks were formed on the raised floor behind the children's desks. Each row was full all the way down to the floor. Even there the rows of ninja didn't stop but continued on right up to the desk. They had to move about to make room for her and Lord Hyuga to enter.
Tsunade wasn't able to see them all so she stood not behind the desk but on top of it. Directly in front of her was Hinata then on either side of her were the other Chunins. She nodded pleased to see them and she didn't even think of the ones not there – they did not matter.
"I'm so proud of all of you." Tsunade spoke quietly but her voice filled the room. "As Hokage, as a member of Konohagakure and a new mother," She had to pause because she felt so much emotion. "I am proud to know that you've gathered here on your own accord without being asked. Your support of me and of him means the world." Tsunade took a moment to look at all of them, memorizing each of their faces. It was good to know who your friends were.
She put one hand on her hip and got down to business. "As far as we know, this is completely Kabuto's plan - Orochimaru is not involved. That doesn't mean much since Kabuto is as depraved as his master. It will be hard to predict what he'll do but I trust all of you to be able to handle it." The desk wasn't that large but Tsunade traveled its surface as she conveyed the facts.
"Naruto has not been located but we have discovered traces of the Sound Ninja. There are at least four teams, four fairly large teams with each team heading in four different directions searching for Naruto. He didn't…he didn't let us know where he'd be going so we don't know which direction Naruto and the others actually went."
"Kakashi, we need your dogs! I know it's been almost three weeks but if they can pick up any of their scents…" She requested of him.
"Yes my lady! Shall we get started then?" Kakashi was ready to perform the hand signs to summon them.
"Hold on! I've got separate you all." Tsunade said quickly for they were all preparing to leave the room at a run. "You can't all go." There were some protests until they saw the look of pain on her face. "You're too valuable to the village to send you all. We can't leave the village unprotected. What if Kabuto uses this opportunity to not only kill Naruto, kidnap Sasuke but to also attack the village? Maybe he wouldn't accomplish much on his own but he could cause some serious damage." Tsunade knew she had to look at all the possibilities.
"You'll let us go won't you Lady Tsunade?" Sasuke stepped forward. "He's our friend and needs our help. Let us show Naruto how much he means to us!" Sasuke was at the desk gripping it hard.
"Sasuke do you think it wise for you to go? After all, it's you he really wants." Tsunade countered. The boy looked desperate and determined. She believed he would go even if she told him no.
"All the more reason to let me go! If he has me then Naruto will live!" Sasuke's voice echoed in the room.
"And if he does have you, then what? Orochimaru won't let you come back – he'll change you Sasuke. You'll become like him. He'll use you to hurt us – the whole village." Tsunade squatted down to see his face better.
"Then kill me before that happens or I'll kill myself once I know Naruto is safe! I won't let myself be turned into some monster! Not at the risk of Naruto or my other friends! I-I'll let myself get taken then Kakashi can take me out!" Sasuke turned to look at his sensei. "I trust you to kill me before Orochimaru gets his hands on me. At Kakashi's blank stare Sasuke sought Ibiki's gaze. As Anbu, Ibiki could kill quickly and without emotion. "Kill me please…" Turning and looking at the other shinobi, Sasuke's eyes begged for death - his life to save theirs. His voice trailed off when he felt a touch on his shoulder.
"Sasuke…no!" Sakura whispered. As much as she wanted Naruto back with them, she didn't want to lose Sasuke either.
His plea touched even the hardest of hearts. Sasuke had always been an enigma to them but right this moment no one could mistake his feelings for Naruto or for Konoha. Each ninja silently vowed to bring both teens home safely.
She reached out a hand to turn Sasuke back to face her. "You may go Sasuke." Tsunade said. As he turned around to face her, Tsuande cupped his cheek. "But you won't have to die. Naruto would never forgive me if anything happened to before he could see and talk to you again." Now she spoke for his ears only. "I'll forgive you if you can bring him back to me Sasuke." They looked into each other's eyes for a moment then she stood abruptly.
"Shizune! You will go in my place. A medical ninja should be present. Take care of them! Kakashi, Sasuke and Sakura! Team Guy! Hinata, Shino, Kurenai and Shibi if you please! Asuma, Shikamaru, Inoichi and Choji! Genma! Ibiki please pick eight of your men – two to go with each team! That is all! Everyone else will guard the village and keep watch for any signs of the enemy. We must assume that we are all under attack until this mess is over."
Tsuande again looked at them all pride. "You go with my blessings and those Hokage that came before me! Go and bring back one of our own!" Her hair whipped behind here as the room cleared in just a few seconds leaving her and Lord Hiashi to the echo of silence.
Kakashi released the dogs. He, Sasuke, Sakura, Genma, Shizune and their Black Ops escorts formed one team behind the tiny Pakkun. They took the main road and traveled for the rest of the night. It was morning before Pakkun knew for certain; Naruto had not gone in this direction.
The team looked at each other in frustration while Kakashi climbed a tree to better his radio transmission. "Guy? Anything? We lost him."
There was static then a five minute wait until Guy answered. "No, nothing. I was just about to call you. They didn't come this way but some Sound Ninja did. We think they're in the village ahead of us. Should we check it out?"
"No. If he's not there then we keep searching. Let's check in with Asuma and Kurenai." Kakashi tried reaching Asuma while he looked down at his team. Sasuke and Sakura sat near to each other silently. They knew they'd be on the move again so they gathered what strength they could by breathing deeply and meditating.
"Kakashi we found some Sound Ninja and got them to talk." Asuma said and you could almost smell the smoke from his cigarette as it floated into the speaker. "They're headed in Kurenai's direction. Apparently they found some friends of the kid's and forced them to talk. Said Naruto, Jiraiya and Iruka were heading home. Also they were aware that they were being pursed."
"Are they okay? Naruto's friends?" The kid would die a little death if he knew they'd been hurt because of him.
"Some cuts and bruises but they got off easy. The father – well according to these guys, he is Massive." Asuma chuckled. "He let them beat on him but when they threatened his family that's when he told them Naruto went home. They say they left them alive – we can only hope so and check on them later. Anyway we should all head in Kurenai's direction. The action will be taking place over there."
"Agreed. Let her know we're on our way okay? Guy did you hear all that?" Kakashi asked.
"Yep! You can count on us Kakashi! We're right behind you!" Guy said in his ear as he dropped down from the tree limb. "West. We head west. They're trying to come home – let's make sure they get there. Pakkun!"
"Sure thing Kakashi." The tiny dog with the deep voice spoke up. Behind them Sasuke and Sakura shared a look. Hinata.
Hinata sat still trying to meditate but knowing that Kurenai just might know Naruto's whereabouts when she got off the radio – it was hard to focus on her breathing and relaxing her muscles. Images of him flashed in her mind. That day when she'd caught him skinny dipping; the dinner as he and her father walked off into the garden; Naruto trying to protect her from Sakura; Naruto in that hospital bed pushing her away because of the fox and again in the garden the night before he left. They'd promised to make love when he came home. Finally they would become one person, connected body and soul. "Naruto…" She whispered into the wind hoping he might hear her voice.
"Let's go! We're the ones going in the right direction!" Kurenai told her team, well minus one. She wondered if this is how it would be for now on, just Hinata and Shino. They had the Black Ops members and Shibi with them and even thought they were Konoha ninja they were unfamiliar to their team. Filling Kiba and Akamaru's shoes wouldn't be easy.
"Right!" Hinata stood then not letting anything enter her mind, she ran forward looking for her soul mate.
Kurenai's team was still out in front but they were expecting Asuma's team to join them at any time. Kakashi would show up next. Since Guy's team was the furthest away, it would take them longer to reach them. Morning turned into afternoon and they ran.
Shino called a halt. His bugs were agitated – something was coming. They scattered seeking cover. Anxiously they waited to see what was coming. Leaves thrashed and branches broke then Naruto burst through the trees with Iruka and Jiraiya right behind him.
"N-Naruto!" Hinata left her hiding place to go greet him. She was smiling and her heart was racing just as her body was. "Naruto!"
The other Konoha ninja rose slowly each feeling relief at not having to face an enemy and finding who they were looking for. They watched from afar as Hinata ran to her man.
Hinata's arms reached out for him and she was shocked when he only grabbed her shoulders and held her away from him. "Naruto?" This was not the greeting she'd been expecting.
"Hey! Look we need to go! Kabuto's men are behind us! What are you waiting for – let's go!" Naruto pushed on her shoulders forcing her out of his way then ran by her. He was only concerned about himself and running away.
A sob rose in her throat. Hinata grabbed Naruto's arm as he ran past her. She swung him around quickly throwing him off guard. Hinata saw the shock on his face and with a controlled burst she used the Gentle Fist to send chakra into his heart.
"Hinata!" Shino called out to her but before he took even one step, Naruto changed into a masked Sound Ninja. "Bastards!" It must have broke her heart. He threw a kunai at the fake Jiraiya and charged.
As the Black Ops men took on the fake Iruka, Kurenai and Shibi watched as ten more Sound Ninja erupted from the forest. It was an ambush.
"Fang Over Fang!" Kiba and Akamaru dropped down from the trees and quickly took out the men. They'd been following his team since they left the village. He'd run parallel to them and nowhere near close enough for them to detect them unless Shino's bugs were scouting in his direction. It was a surprise for them all.
"Kiba!" Kurenai watched as man and dog came to a halt, grinning in triumph. The Sound had been eliminated in one attack. "Why are you here?" She was aware, as they all were of his feelings for Naruto. As glad as she was for his help – she did not want to take out one of her own team members.
Kiba dropped his smile and sobered. "I'm here to help. I still don't really trust Naruto but I want to give him a chance to change my mind and I can only do it if he's at home. So let's bring him home. Hinata?" He questioned when he finally saw her face.
Shino was at her side. The girl was white. There was pain written across her face as she stared down at the unconscious man. "We need to go. They were trying to stop us. …Naruto…Naruto must be close by." She turned to Kiba staring at him. "I don't have time for you now but Kiba – don't fuck with me! Help or go home!" There was so much emotion in her voice that they all shivered at the menace of it.
"Perhaps I should take a look into his mind first. See if there are anymore diversons headed our way." Inoichi said as he and Asuma's team leapt down from the trees.
"Kurenai, what happened?" Asuma walked over to her side.
Shikamaru listened to Kurenai's explanation and watched Hinata all the while wondering just how much more she would have to endure before this was all over. He switched his gaze back to Inoichi as the Sound Ninja screamed his last.
"There are more up ahead waiting in case this lot failed but it is certain that Naruto is near. Kabuto is gleefully certain of his success in finding and killing the boy. We should go now. The others are not far behind – we should be able to take those cowards easily." He, Shibi, Kurenai and Asuma all nodded to each other. The Black Ops men stood together leaving the Chunin gathered about Hinata.
"Then let's go." She said.
Sasuke pushed himself. According to Kakashi there had already been one attack. They were getting closer to Hinata. He had to be there in time to help.
Sakura and Kakashi were on his heels. Genma, Shizune and their Black Ops escorts brought up the rear.
It wasn't long before they found the dead Sound littering the forest floor. Closer. Afternoon then night and finally they reached the others.
"Hinata!" Sasuke approached her gently. They had made camp. It was unwise to travel continuously without rest. If they found Kabuto, they would have no strength left to fight.
"Sasuke." Hinata tried to smile and failed but she patted the spot next to her and let him take her hand. It wasn't Naruto but having Sasuke close was a comfort.
"What's he doing here?" Sakura asked seeing Kiba sitting off in the shadows.
"He's here to help." Shino spoke up. "Give him a chance Sakura. If he tries anything, there are too many witnesses and more than enough emotion for us to act without remorse. Kiba would likely die." His words were a warning for Kiba to behave.
Kiba felt on edge in this group. He'd known it would be bad but all this suspicion and hostility was unnerving. "I'm going to help bring him home, maybe then you'll believe me – all of you." Kiba spoke to the whole group but received no response. He sighed. "Let's get some sleep Akamaru. Wake me when it's my turn to take watch." Grumbling he lay down and let Akamaru curl into a ball at his stomach. Before laying down his head, Akamaru barked a few times and Kiba stiffened. This is how I made Naruto feel? And Naruto's treated this way all the time?! Kiba's chest felt tight and his head began to pound remembering Naruto's past. Slowly he shook his head wanting desperately deny what he now knew was the truth. He'd made a mistake – Naruto wasn't the demon, he was.
"I guess we'll see." Sakura said more or less to herself. It had been her plan to hopefully change his mind but he'd proven to be too stubborn. It seemed too much to ask that he was here to actually help but as Shino said – he couldn't do a thing without someone seeing him. Kiba's true colors would revel themselves soon. Sakura put Kiba out of her mind and went to Hinata and gave her a hug. The exchanged a few words before laying down to rest.
It was a quiet night with only the normal sounds of the forest to keep them company. It wasn't hard to sleep, they'd all traveled hard still morning was so slow to come.
As they began to break camp, a kunai with a letter bomb attached broke the group apart. Leaf shinobi scattered. The attack was just another diversion since nothing more happened. They rushed forward and quickly came upon what could only be lookouts. The bomb was to alert the Sound that the Leaf were closing in.
Genma caught up to one and placed a senbon needle into the back of the man's neck. A Black Ops operative used his sword to slice off the other's arm at the shoulder then stop his heart using the tip of his blade.
On they ran with expectation of getting ever closer to Naruto. All of a sudden a large explosion happened several miles ahead of them. There were screams of agony and the scent of burning flesh. There were other explosions smaller than the first but they fueled the already burning forest fire. It was so hot and so wide that it impeded their path. They watched angrily as the fire spread blocking their path. It meant traveling a good distance out of their way to catch up with the Sound again.
Standing impotent they glanced around trying to decide on the best course to take when there was a crashing sound coming from directly in front of them. Someone was heading their way quickly. Everyone crouched and drew their weapons ready for yet another diversionary battle.
Jiraiya burst through the trees. He was carrying a body over his shoulder. He looked behind him once to be sure he'd taken out all of Kabuto's mean when several kunai and shuriken came his way. He landed on the ground and all at once his hair became a spiky cover protecting him from the barrage of weapons.
"Stop! Hold it! It is Master Jiraiya!" Kakashi yelled and ran over to the man.
"Master Jiraiya!" Shizune was close on Kakashi's heels because she'd seen the injured man the Toad Sage had been carrying. "Who is it? Is it Naruto?" There was the bitter taste of fear in her mouth.
Black Ops, Genma, Inoichi and Shibi took up defensive positions as the others ran to Jiraiya.
Jiraiya's hair changed back to normal then he gently lay Iruka down on the grown. It only took seconds for him to see who was there. "Shizune! He's been poisoned. Quickly!" He backed off and allowed the woman some room to work. "Here – it's the needle that distributed the poison. I took it from his neck." Carefully he handed it to the medicine woman.
"Jiraiya! What the hell happened? Where's Naruto? What happened to Iruka?" Kakashi took the man's vest in his hand.
Just then Guy somersaulted into their mist, his team close behind. "Where's the enemy?" It was comical and yet it was not, for the moment was just too fraught with urgency.
"Sakura! What is going on?" Lee landed close to Guy but was soon running to her side as they all looked down at Iruka.
He'd been beaten. His face was a mess of bruises and cuts and there were numerous other cuts all over his body. It was also obvious that his leg was broken as a bone protruded from his shin. But it was the blue tint to his lips and his labored breathing that had them all scared.
Shizune quickly tested the needle Jiraiya had given her. Iruka's other injuries could wait but if she couldn't find an antidote and administer it quickly – he would die.
Kakashi still held onto Jiraiya's vest but looked down and gasped as he got his first real look at Iruka. They all remained silent as Shizune worked. Minutes passed as she pulled items from her medical bag. Sakura knelt down and began helping her to mix certain ingredients once she saw what Shizune intended. It was a big help for it cut the prep time in half. Fifteen minutes later she was injecting medicine into Iruka's bloodstream and Sakura was holding up his head to pour some foul smelling liquid into his mouth. At first nothing then he gasped and his body shook uncontrollably before stiffening and becoming still.
Everyone's heart stopped but in a minute, Iruka took a deep breath then opened his eyes. The relief was instant. Iruka was alive. Naruto's father had survived.
"Iruka? Can you hear me? Do you know who I am?" Shizune got into his face. The poison still had to exit his system but he should be able to talk and understand her.
Hinata looked from him to Jiraiya then moved to kneel beside him. Sakura made room and laid Iruka's head on her lap. "Iruka-sensei, where's Naruto?" Her gentle hands stroked his face. It had become dear to her and she hadn't even known it until this moment. Her lover's father was as precious to her as her own. Tears left her eyes thinking of the pain he was in and the beaten he'd taken. "Dad?" She called him the name Naruto did which seemed to affect him.
"Naruto…" Iruka whispered as his eyes came into focus. He saw long dark hair and lavender eyes. "Hinata…Naruto's Hinata." Iruka closed his eyes and his tears mixed with the blood on his face.
He lifted his hand and reached for her. Once her cool hands wrapped around his, he clutched at her and brought her hand close to his heart. "Don't let him…don't let him Hinata! I tried to – tried to stop him!"
Everyone grew tense with expectation of Iruka's next words.
"Do not let him die! He gave himself up – for me! Naruto! I couldn't save my son!" Iruka's eyes were practically swollen shut but the pain in them looked to be too much to bear.
"Save him Hinata! Tell him…I'm proud of him. Don't let him…die. Naruto…my son…" Iruka took one last breath and became quiet.
"D-dad?!" Hinata screamed.