An: Thank you for all the reviews as always. I'm glad this story is being so well received your humble author S. o. t. A.

Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto and I'm doing this for fun not profit.

Chapter 3: A Thirst for Knowledge

"Well this mission turned out to be far more than advertised," the Third said debriefing Team Seven upon their return to the village, much to Naruto displeasure since it was preventing him from getting his ramen. "However it was handled satisfactory. You all do the village proud. That will be all."

"Finely," Naruto said making for the door his patience having been tested to its limit.

Sakura and Sasuke at least stayed long enough to be dismissed by their sensei as well before following in his wake. Kakashi watched his students leave sweeping a more critical eye over Sasuke as the boy had been displaying a jealousy to Naruto sudden rise in status and skill.

'Is there a problem Kakashi?" the third asked.

"I'm not sure yet," he replied, "Sasuke has been pulling away from his team. It seems to stem from Naruto sudden improvement."

"I see," the Hokage said gravely. Standing he said, "It must be difficult to accept that in the Academy he was a legend but is still a small fish in the greater world."

"Perhaps," Kakashi said, "But I think it has more to do with Naruto then encountering Zabuza."

"Oh, explain please."

"It's no secret that Naruto considers Sasuke a rival to be surpassed," Kakashi said. "As things stand know Sasuke probably sees Naruto is capable of doing so. And if Naruto the worst student in his class can surpass him what does that say about his chances of completing his ambition."

"Do you have a way to combat this potential problem?"

"If there is a way I can't see it," Kakashi said seriously. "I think the only way Sasuke would be happy is if Naruto began to do poorly again. So outside of sabotaging Naruto's training or transferring one of them off of Team 7. I'm not sure what to do."

"Naturally, neither solution is practicable," Sarutobi said. "Keep me abreast of the situation. Now, what of Sakura?"

"Well I'm not sure exactly," Kakashi said. "For some reason she's seemed to have made a one eighty in who she is interested in as she has been seeking to learn more about Naruto."

"Really, well I imagine Naruto will be pleased. Any idea what prompted this sudden change?"

"Some," Kakashi admitted before telling the Hokage about what Sasuke said about her and Naruto's subsequent attempt to cheer her up.

"Hmm, but unless my ears deceive me, your tone seems to suggest this maybe a problem," the Hokage said lighting his pipe.

"It may be, due in part to Sakura's intelligence," Kakashi said. "She's already suspicious of him as she's noticed he seems to heal at an accelerated rate. While she seems to think it's a Kekkei Genkai. Upon noticing it she didn't ask me. That makes me think that she suspects there is more going."

"Do you think she'll learn of the burden he carries?"

"If any of the children that graduated with him is capable of doing so it's her," Kakashi said.

"And how do you think she'll react?"

"That I can't guess at…" Kakashi said trailing off. "Should I begin to hamper her if she begins to look into Naruto too closely?"

"No," Sarutobi said, "Let her do as she likes for now. Perhaps by looking into him and uncovering his secrets she will come to appreciate the service he provides the village."

"Yes Lord Hokage," Kakashi said before leaving the room.

Getting up to go for a walk Sarutobi wondered what would happen should Sakura learn that her teammate contained the creature that attacked the village thirteen years ago. And whether or not upon learning of that would she reject him or cherish him.

Sakura arrived at Ichiraku after dropping her stuff off at home. Her mom had just been setting the table for dinner, but she assured her that there was enough for everyone. However, Sakura told her not to worry about it as she planned to eat out. Sakura smiled before she lifted the flap as she could see Naruto's pack near the stool showing he hadn't bothered to head home first.

Sakura lifted the flap and Ayame recognized her as she had stopped in a few times but always without Naruto. "Ah welcome, would you like your usual?" Ayame asked cheerfully.

Naruto turned to see who it was. Surprised to see his teammate he gave rise to it saying, "Sakura! Why didn't you say you were coming here? I'd have waited."

Sakura smiled, which faltered a little when the friendly smile on Ayame's face faded. No doubt from having heard how she treated Naruto in the academy. However it reappeared when Naruto turned back around. "Put what she wants on my bill," Naruto said.

Ayame sent a look Sakura's way that seemed to convey that she thought the girl didn't deserve it but said, "Okay Naruto. What will you have?"

"You don't have to Naruto," Sakura said.

"Don't worry about it Sakura," Naruto said giving her a smile. "I plan to eat till I'm stuffed since we got paid, even if I think they should have given us A-rank pay."

"The Hokage couldn't Naruto, as then they'd have to charge Tazuna more," Sakura said sitting next to him on the stool and then ordering.

Ayame despite her attitude towards Sakura cooling, having learned that she was that Sakura, still remained polite. Placing Sakura's order in front of her the young woman said, "Yes, Naruto was telling us about his mission. He said it was quite exciting."

'Exciting isn't the word I'd use," Sakura said. "I never would have thought we'd run into a Missing-nin on a simple escort mission."

"A missing-nin," Ayame said surprised, "You forgot to mention that."

Sakura discreetly watched Naruto as he rubbed the back of his head chuckling weakly as he said, "Well I didn't really fight against the missing-nin so I didn't think to mention it."

Addressing Sakura the waitress asked, "What else has he failed to mention?"

Not really wanting to get Naruto in trouble with one of the people that cared for him she said, "Oh that's about it I'm sure."

Eyeing the two genin suspiciously Ayame said, "Oh well, as long as everyone made it back safely."

Sakura guessed her backing Naruto raised the young woman's opinion of her as she seemed far more cordial to her afterwards. Sakura wondered for a moment if the slightly older girl had feeling for Naruto too, and while she decided that she did believed the girl saw him as a younger brother.

Watching Naruto eat she couldn't believe how much ramen he could put away. He had almost six bowls and still didn't seem full. The waitress eventually managed to get most of the story of what happened in Wave from the Blonde apparently knowing how to trip him up in order to get him to admit to things. But eventually even Naruto could get full so after paying his bill he grabbed his pack and made to leave.

"I'm glad you came out Sakura," Naruto said and the earnest way he said it made her smile.

"So am I," she admitted having had a good time.

She could see that he looked conflicted and figured that he wanted to ask her if she wanted him to walk her home. Not simply as a boy interested in her, but because it had gotten dark. She didn't doubt that the conflict stemmed from his having stopped asking her out even, if she told him she'd given up on chasing Sasuke.

Figuring she'd help him she said, "Naruto, would you mind walking home with me?"

"N-no Sakura," he said surprised but pleased.

As they walked she asked, "Why did you try to keep what happened in Wave from Ayame and Teuchi?"

"Well I guess because they've both kind of looked after me since I was little," Naruto said. "Ayame tends to worry."

"Oh…" Sakura said. "So they watched you when you were younger?"

"After I left the orphanage," Naruto said.

"Why'd you leave?"

"You're asking a lot of questions today Sakura," Naruto said looking at her.

"I guess I just wanted to learn more about you," Sakura admitted. "You're surprisingly close lipped considering how noisy you are."

"I guess it's just nobody's ever really been interested in me before," Naruto said, "so I've never had a reason to talk about myself."

"I'm sorry…"

"About what?"

"About how I ignored you while we were in the Academy," Sakura said looking away sadly.

"You were interested in Sasuke," Naruto said. "Besides it doesn't matter. Although I was lonely sometimes, I had people like Ayame, Teuchi, Iruka, and the Hokage looking out for me. I guess I just learned to appreciate the people that did see me."

"But why do the rest of the villagers pretend not to?" Sakura thought to herself not ready to ask Naruto directly as she was sure he'd try to turn the subject.

She was pulled from her thoughts by Naruto saying, "What about you Sakura?"

"Huh, what about me?"

"Well tell me something about you," Naruto said giving a smile.

"That's not really fair as you kind of just told me those things," Sakura said embarrassed.

"You pried a little bit," Naruto said.

"I like dumplings," Sakura said lamely in response.

Naruto nodded but before he could ask more she said, "Well we're here."

"Okay," Naruto said smiling, "Mission see Sakura safely home is complete. I'll see you tomorrow, Sakura."

Shaking her head she said, "We don't have training tomorrow Naruto. Kakashi gave us the day off remember."

"Really, guess I forgot."

Sakura was about to wish him a good-night when the door opened, "Ah, I thought I heard voices out here."

Sakura looked up to see her mom looking at her and Naruto. She was about to introduce him when she saw the light of recognition go off in her mom's eyes. She found that rather strange as her mom wasn't a shinobi and while Naruto's pranks were well known. In a village the size of Konoha it was kind of hard to believe everyone knew of him. Shaking it off she said, "Mom, this is my teammate Naruto."

"Is he now," her mom said cautiously. The way she said it made it a statement not a question. Sakura was also concerned by her mom's cold attitude as she always greeted all her other friends warmly.

Naruto was obviously nervous as well so he said, "Well, I'll see you at training the day after tomorrow." He started to leave but stopped saying, "We do have training the day after right?"

"Yes," Sakura said with a smile. "I'll see you then Naruto."

Sakura stepped inside closing the door behind her. "So that's who your other teammate is," her mom said.

"Didn't I mention it?" Sakura asked.

"No, all I remembered you speaking about was Sasuke," the older Haruno said. "I guess it slipped your mind."

Sakura was embarrassed as she remembered the day of the bell test coming down to breakfast and sharing the news with her family. "Sorry," Sakura said upset with her previous self.

"Is…is he a good teammate?"

"Yes," Sakura responded watching her mom critically. For some reason Sakura couldn't shake the feeling that her mom was somewhat worried now, as if knowing Naruto was her teammate filled her with dread. Hoping to put her at ease Sakura said, "Actually he's a great teammate. He's really helped me these past few weeks."

"How so," her mom asked surprised at just how passionate her daughter replied. As the only person that had ever elicited a similar positive response was Sasuke.

"Well whenever I was feeling down he'd be there to cheer me up or give me a boost of confidence. Not to mention he's not too proud to ask for help when he needs it."

"What about Sasuke?"

"He's a good teammate too I guess. It's just…"

"Just what dear?"

"He seems so cold now," Sakura said. "Also while at the time his goals for the future made him seem mysterious and cool. Now…now it kind of worries me. Mom do you know Naruto?"

"No dear but I've heard of him," the elder Haruno said.

"How?"

"What do you mean how?"

"I mean how do you know of him?" Sakura said. "Because it seems everyone does and that doesn't make any sense."

"Of course it does. Not too many children would have the audacity to paint the Hokage monument."

"That's exactly my point," Sakura said getting a little upset believing her mom was keeping something from her. "Yes he's a practical joker but the entire village seems to know him and they all seem to want to ignore him. Even you seemed wary of him but you claimed to never have met him."

A little concerned her mom said, "Dear I think your imagining things. I was nothing put kind to him."

"Yes but you weren't acting like you," Sakura said. "Normally you'd invite him in or try to embarrass me by asking all sorts of questions."

"Let's just drop it Sakura," her mom said turning to leave. "The boy simply has a reputation as a troublemaker that's all. Anyway, how was your mission?"

Sakura allowed her mom to change the topic but was now more interested than ever to learn what it was about Naruto that made people uneasy. It wasn't her imagination as she had seen the almost universal attempt to reject his existence. To her it was almost like people were hoping that if they closed their eyes he'd go away like a bad dream. Telling her mom about the mission she made sure to tell her all that he had done in order to free the people of Wave. She didn't know why Naruto was treated as he was, but she did know he didn't deserve and she'd change people's opinions of him one person at a time if need be.

Sakura smiled nostalgically as she walked through the front gate of the Academy. But she stopped as she saw the swing that Naruto had sat on looking depressed as the other children played together. She remembered the last time she had seen him on it had been when they had graduated. Her mom and dad had been there showering their praise on her. But Naruto had sat on the swing alone looking on sadly as the parents congratulated their children. She hadn't paid him any mind only seeing him out of the corner of her eye. But when she had looked back a few minutes later he was already gone.

Wishing she had paid more attention that day she entered the academy heading for her old classroom. School was still out, but it was close enough to the new school year that Sakura was betting that Iruka was here. Sliding the door open she saw that her instincts were right and smiled at her teacher as he looked up.

"Sakura," he said surprised, "What brings you here?"

"Iruka-sensei," she greeted warmly.

Standing he said, "So how is life as a shinobi?"

"Eye opening," she replied causing her teacher to smile.

"Yes, I imagine so. We try to prepare you as best we can but there's just no replacement for the real thing."

"Yeah," Sakura said, "But actually I came here because I have a question for you."

"Oh, go ahead," Iruka said hoping he could be of help.

"How did Naruto graduate?"

"What…well he….Why do you ask?"

"Please answer the question," Sakura said wondering why her teacher was so nervous about her desire to know.

Scratching his cheek something her years under him as a student told her he was nervous. His demeanor changed to accusing as he instead asked, "Is this some attempt to get him off your team? It wasn't any secret you were less than thrilled at his inclusion on Team Seven."

"No Iruka-sensei," Sakura said a little hurt, but couldn't fault him for his suspicions. "It's just…Naruto has been surprising me lately and I'm curious about how he graduated. He failed the test. Then all the sudden he comes out with this amazing clone jutsu that he apparently learned in-between the time we graduated and team assignments."

Surprised by just how much thought Sakura had put into the conditions behind her teammate's graduation Iruka said, "Well he passed a make-up exam."

"And the clone jutsu," Sakura said narrowing her eyes at her teacher.

Sighing in defeat since he figured no matter what he said she'd eventually uncover how Naruto learned the jutsu, "After failing the test Naruto was approached by Mizuki…"

Sakura listened attentively as her teacher explained how Mizuki had attempted to use Naruto to steal the scroll of sealing. Although his story rang true she still had the feeling he was leaving something out. When he finished his tale she asked, "Why Naruto?"

"Pardon," Iruka said, "Probably because he failed the test."

"There were others," Sakura said beginning to think out loud, "So why him? Does it have to do with why the villagers ignore Naruto?"

Iruka's eyes widened as Sakura said that, as it was obvious the girl had been paying attention to the villager's dismissal of the boy's existence. However his fear of her eventually finding out the reason why prevented him from saying more.

"Do you have any idea why the villagers ignore Naruto?" Sakura asked.

Iruka could see that she was suspicious of him now or suspected that even if he answered it wouldn't exactly be the truth. As he noticed that she was searching his face for any of the signs that he was lying. She was being discreet about it, but the way her eyes darted to the spots that he had taught her about told him the truth. Using the years of training that he possessed he said, "I suppose it's related to some of his pranks. Perhaps they are hoping that by ignoring him it won't attract his attention as a possible target."

"I guess that makes sense," Sakura said. "By the way, what happened to Mizuki-sensei?"

"He was executed," Iruka said bluntly. "His crime of betrayal was too great to overlook."

Sakura was surprised at the harsh punishment but nodded before saying, "Thanks, Iruka-sensei."

Iruka watched her leave before packing up his stuff to head to the Hokage's office to tell the leader of Sakura's looking into Naruto's past. He was partly afraid that should she learn of the Kyuubi that she would reject him as he had a good idea how much that would devastate the boy.

Sakura was positive that she had been lied to by her old teacher. While his face didn't give it away, the complete schooling of his features did. Not to mention the prank excuse had already been used by her mom. The only prank that she could think of that the whole village knew about was his painting of the Hokage monument and that had been harmless as he'd had it cleaned by the next day. So why was every citizen united in trying to deny Naruto existed? What event could possibly have united the whole village into blatantly ignoring him?

Was it something his parents did? But to her that didn't make sense. After all, everyone had heard about how the Uchiha had been murdered by a member of Sasuke's own family. Yet Sasuke himself didn't seem to be ostracized as a result. So what was it about Naruto that they hated?

She'd decided to look up any famous or perhaps infamous Uzumaki's as well, since she was heading to the library in order to research his apparent Kekkei Genkai.

As she walked to the library she caught sight of some kids running down a street. What caught her eye was that they all were wearing the goggles that Naruto used to wear before he became a shinobi. She stopped for a moment to watch them, as they had begun looking around like they had been chasing someone but lost him.

Who they lost and the reason they wore the goggles became apparent as Naruto unhenged himself, having turned into a garbage can, and attacked the trio with the paper shuriken that kids playing shinobi tended to use. The boy in a yellow shirt began pointing at him and although she couldn't hear what was being said guessed it had to do with Naruto using real shinobi tactics. Naruto began shouting back and before she knew it both boys were glaring at each other, but seconds later were laughing and smiling.

Deciding to leave him alone as she was sure he would invite her to play, something she found a little childish yet fitting with Naruto's character, but also because she wanted to really learn more about the healing ability he displayed.

Entering the library was like coming home again considering all the time she spent here during her tenure at the academy. She got a little wistful at remembering why, which had been to make Sasuke notice how smart she was; since she felt she might not measure up to Ino physically. However it did have its benefits, as she knew almost the entire layout by heart. There was supposedly a room filled with rare books and scrolls that she had never seen. But outside of that, she could probably walk the library blindfolded and find the section she was searching for.

Pulling several books on Blood limits she first looked up the Sharingan. However, outside of some basic information almost everyone who's seen the eye would know found it lacking. She didn't doubt that if she looked up another village Kekkei Genkai it would be the same story as the clans guarded their secrets even from their allies. So her best hope was that Naruto's was from outside the village.

Looking through the index she found two that featured accelerated healing but unless Naruto suddenly began pulling bones of his body or merging with other people doubted it was them. There was a blood line ability were others could be healed by sucking the chakra out of the person. But none exclusively dedicated to healing the individual. Closing the book, she opened the next one and began searching.

"What is it Iruka," the gravelly voice of the Hokage asked as the teacher stopped in front of his desk. "You seem agitated."

"I was paid a visit by an old student today who was asking for the details of how Naruto graduated."

"This student wouldn't happen to be Sakura would it," Although he phrased it like a question the Hokage's tone seemed to convey he knew that it was.

"How …"

"Kakashi has informed me that Sakura has been more curious about Naruto lately." While Iruka absorbed that information the Hokage watched the teacher. Finally he said, "Tell me do you intend to tell Naruto?"

"Yes, I planned to," Iruka said.

"Please refrain from doing so."

"Lord Hokage he has a right to know," Iruka said his voice rising slightly.

"I suppose that is a valid point, but please listen to my reasoning. I fear if you tell Naruto it will put pressure on him. Pressure that will ultimately do him no good. For instance, he may decide to tell Sakura out of fear of her discovering about the Kyuubi for herself."

"Yes, but perhaps he should," Iruka said.

"Tell me Iruka, would you tell someone you barely know a secret of that magnitude?"

"Sir, they've known each other for years," Iruka countered.

Chuckling the village leader said, "Iruka, there is a difference in knowing someone and truly knowing someone. Yes, they have seen each other almost daily for years. But does Sakura truly know Naruto? The answer is obviously, no. Since she is only now asking about him. Yet the same holds true for Naruto. How much does he know about her? Can he trust her with his burden? Or, upon learning about it will she react with fear and hostility? Better I think, she finds out for herself and she make the next move, then to force Naruto to reveal his secret before he is ready."

Iruka thought about it for a moment before saying, "I'll honor your wishes, Lord Hokage."

"Thank you," the leader said as the teacher left his office. Once alone he sat back in his chair and truly hoped that when Sakura did learn the truth she reacted as he expected.

Blowing out a frustrated breath Sakura shut the book she was looking through. Apparently she did it a little too noisily as the librarian came over to see what was bothering her. "Hello Sakura," the older lady said smiling at the familiar girl. "I thought with you graduating I'd stop seeing you here studying."

"Well, we must never stop trying to learn more right," Sakura said with a smile.

Nodding the librarian asked, "So then what seems to be the problem in your quest for knowledge."

Sakura was about to tell her about Naruto's quick healing. However, since she beginning to suspect that the whole village already knew something, and would try to stop her from finding out said, "Well on my last mission I encountered a boy who healed at an incredible rate. But if it's a Kekkei Genkai it isn't listed in any of these books."

"I see…" the woman said assuming a stance to think. "Are you sure it's a bloodline ability?"

"What else could it be?" Sakura asked confused.

"Literally anything," the woman said moving towards an aisle and motioning Sakura to follow. Running her finger along the many books she stopped and pulled a large book down before rifling through it. "Let's see," she said as she turned the pages, "Ah here," turning the book towards the girl it was an article on the seven swordsmen of mist. "Tell me have you heard of the Seven Swordsmen?"

"Yes," Sakura said dryly.

"Well according to legend some of the blades possess abilities outside the norm. The great shark blade Samehada for instance is rumored to be able to eat chakra of its wielder's opponents. So perhaps the reason for this healing you noticed is because of some talisman. But it may not be limited to that as there are far more ways for people to increase their power and new ones are discovered all the time."

Taking the book from the woman, Sakura thanked her before taking it to her table. Flipping it to the index her jaw dropped at the number of entries that could heal an injury. Sighing again, she was about to begin reading when she realized maybe there was more to Naruto's ability then just healing. She began thinking about anything else about Naruto that was extraordinary. Immediately she came upon his accelerated ability to recoup chakra. Checking back in the Kekkei Genkai books she found that none of the entries there had any mention of expedient chakra recovery so she returned to the book she was just looking in. She also realized that Naruto large chakra reserves may also be part of his abilities.

Although adding large chakra reserves to her list at first seemed to add to it, between the three she was actually able to eliminate most of them. Oddly enough the sword the librarian had showed her made it to the list, but Sakura was pretty sure Naruto wasn't carrying around a five foot long sword.

"Jinchuriki," she read aloud as she checked the next item on her list. Flipping to it in the book she almost skipped it entirely but couldn't ignore that it had all three abilities listed so reading to herself read:

"Jinchuriki: literally means Power of Human Sacrifice. Jinchuriki are created through the sealing of a tailed beast into an infant preferable although young children are often used. Adults that have attempted to do so often die as their chakra coils are fixed and cannot adjust to the strain of containing the beast.

The abilities that the jinchuriki exhibit vary from beast to beast. An example is the one tailed Shukaku, the jinchuriki of that beast often displays an ability to control sand. (See Kiyomori the Mad Monk as a reference to first Shukaku jinchuriki.)

However all jinchuriki exhibit some of the following abilities or traits. Abilities all jinchuriki seem to share are accelerated healing and chakra replenishment. Large Chakra reserves also are reported, not to mention a secondary source of chakra should the jinchuriki exhaust his own. Traits vary although often in some way link the host and beast. For example, many claim that the host of the two tailed cat often has cat like eyes.

Sakura was going to cross jinchuriki off her list until reading that. After all Naruto never showed an ability to use a second chakra, but reading about the traits it would explain the whisker like birthmarks on his face which she had always found odd. Skimming through the article for what beasts Konoha had it said:

"Of all the villages only Konoha lacks a beast of its own. The First Hokage who had the amazing ability to control the beast divided them among the other Great Villages and gave one to the minor village of Waterfall. The whereabouts of the Kyuubi…"

"The Kyuubi," Sakura thought shocked. Flipping to the date of publication she found that the book was published fifteen years before the Kyuubi attack. "Could it be…" she thought her mind racing. She wanted to reject it almost on an instinctual level since everyone in the village almost universally hated and despised the creature. But that fact alone almost made it a certainty and would explain the desire of the village to pretend Naruto didn't exist.

Reading on the book said, "Jinchuriki are often loners and most are more in fact burdens to their village as they often lose control of their beasts resulting in large death tolls. It is widely believed by this author that the reason the First gave away all the beasts was for this very reason, as despite their usefulness on the battlefield Konoha has often triumphed without them."

Sakura closed her eyes, as she felt sick upon reading the authors calm dismissal of the people that housed the creatures. But then she was hit by a desire to find the author and beat him to a bloody pulp. If Naruto was a jinchuriki, he didn't want to be a loner and felt that's why the creatures inevitably got loose. Why lock away a creature to protect the people around them, if those people in turn hated them for doing so.

Calming, she decided to go for a walk, so after putting the books away simply wandered Konoha. She couldn't deny that of all the things she had read in the library, Jinchuriki fit Naruto the best. But why the deception, the lessons taught by the Academy all stated that the Fourth Hokage defeated the Nine-tails. But she realized defeated wasn't the same as killed. The Fourth Hokage could have sealed the nine-tails in Naruto at the cost of his life as the book said a life was often required for the sealing.

Yet, that brought her back to the question of why the great cover up. Why not simply announce Naruto was the jinchuriki of the nine-tails? But upon remembering the cold looks, as if people were trying not to see him, Sakura realized people did know. It was the kids that didn't. But, then why didn't they interact with him. For that answer she didn't need to look any further than her own parents as she remembered seeing Naruto crying in a market once. She had stopped and if she hadn't been holding her mom's hand may have gone talk to him. As it was, she tried to head in his direction, but an insistent tug from her mother made it impossible. Trying to remember what happened next Sakura saw an image of her mom's face and saw that she had seen the boy too. But her mom's eyes had gotten cold and she pretend to simply glide her gaze past him.

Although her parents never told her explicitly not to play with Naruto, she had heard lots of kids give that excuse. Were the parents being prevented from telling the children for some reason? Yet even if they were, the adults were attempting to at least influence their kids' ideas of the boy.

Sakura stopped her train of thought figuring she might be getting ahead of herself. While the evidence seemed to be pointing towards his being a jinchurick she hadn't really proven it yet. A part of her considered asking Naruto, but she figured that he'd deny it.

Thinking of the book still angered her as the author made it seem like the jinchuriki was the problem when to her the problem was the attitude of the people. At least as far as Konoha was concerned. Although she didn't think it was a huge stretch to imagine that people's attitudes were the same in the other villages. But she couldn't imagine that the Bijuu had any sort of real control over its host or otherwise she'd probably be a stain on the floor somewhere considering how she treated Naruto before.

The scent of Ichiraku pulled her from her thoughts. Deciding to have some she almost stopped afraid of seeing Naruto there. She wasn't afraid of him but of how she'd act around him as all the information was a bit much to absorb. Not to mention she didn't know how she wanted to proceed. She guessed the best way to proceed right now was to act normally and simply try to figure out the truth on her own. Also, she kind of wanted Naruto to tell her himself, since it would reflect a level of trust that he was putting into her.

Sitting down the young waitress smiled at her apparently willing to let Sakura's past treatment of her favorite customer go in light of her seeming to come around to his charm. "Welcome Sakura," Ayame said kindly, "What would you like?"

Placing her order, the waitress made small talk with the pink-haired girl. "Has Naruto stopped by yet?"

"No," Ayame said, "He'll probably come by later as I've seen him playing around with Konohamaru."

"Yeah, I've seen him too," Sakura admitted. "I kind of envy him." Ayame gave her a look that seemed to say if you knew more about him you wouldn't, but she clarified what she meant adding, "He doesn't seem to let anything keep him down."

"Well he's a special kid," Ayame said.

"Yeah…"

Leaning an elbow on the counter Ayane said, "You've seemed to be rather taken by him lately."

Blushing and looking away Sakura said, "Um, I suppose I've only really begun to get to know Naruto."

"Oh," Ayame said probably sensing some possible gossip, "Just how well have you gotten to know him?"

"Not that well," Sakura said quickly.

"But would you?"

"I…I'm not sure," Sakura said, "There is something I wanted to ask if you don't mind?"

"Shoot," Ayame said smiling.

"When's Naruto's birthday?"

Ayame looked surprised before sending a look her dad's way but he shrugged so she said, "October tenth."

Sakura kept her features calm, but it was like she had just received a gift. What were the odds that he would be born on the exact same day as the Kyuubi's attack? "Thanks," she said as Ayame placed her order in front of her. Digging in she ate quickly, hoping to leave before Naruto arrived wanting some more time to go over all that she had learned.

Naruto arrived on time, but as expected Kakashi still hadn't. He leaned against the fence after saying hello to Sakura and sending his customary glare towards Sasuke. Sakura warmly welcomed him as had become the norm and although she also had done so to Sasuke didn't seemed bothered by his normal lackluster greeting.

"Naruto," she said before he got comfortable.

"What's up Sakura," he said moving towards her.

Dropping her voice she said, "Let's go to the training grounds."

"But what about Kakashi-sensei?"

"Guess he'll just have to come find us. But I want to get some training in, instead of sitting around doing nothing," Sakura said.

"What about Sasuke?"

"What about him, I doubt he'd want to train with us," Sakura replied. But looking behind Naruto said, "Sasuke we're going to the training grounds. Do you want to come?"

Sasuke turned his head before saying, "No."

"Okay, well tell Kakashi-sensei for us," Sakura said pulling Naruto with her.

Arriving at the training grounds where they had performed the bell test Naruto asked, "So what kind of training do you want to do?"

"Taijutsu," Sakura replied, "But can you do me a favor? I'd like to see how I'd do against some of your clones."

"Sure thing Sakura," Naruto said creating five clones.

Sakura was amazed as Naruto had created two more clones then Kakashi had claimed Sasuke would be capable of and he wasn't even phased. She shouldn't be surprised though considering her suspicions but it was still impressive.

"Alright Naruto," Sakura said, "Don't hold back."

Naruto nodded, and Sakura tried to prepare, but when the clones came found that she should have asked him to hold back a little, as she managed to block the first who attempted to strike her in the face. However two others approached from the sides of the first and each kicked her in the chest knocking her on her back. Staring up at the sky she saw Naruto descending. She closed her eyes expecting to take another hit, but when it didn't come opened them to see Naruto leaning over her with a closed fist.

"Are you okay Sakura," he asked concerned before opening the fist and offering her a hand up.

"Um, yeah nothing broken I guess, except my pride. I thought I'd do better," Sakura said accepting the hand back to her feet.

"Sorry Sakura," Naruto said.

"You don't need to apologize, Naruto. I asked you to go all out."

Jumping back she said, "Are you ready to go again?"

"Do you want me to get rid of the clones?"

It hurt her pride a little but she nodded her head saying, "I guess we'll just have to go one-on-one till I get better."

"Don't worry Sakura without the clones I doubt I'll be too much for you to handle," Naruto said getting in his stance. "Get ready here I come."

Sakura was vaguely aware that she was being carried. She had really worn herself out trying to keep up with Naruto. They had already been training for two hours by the time Kakashi had arrived with Sasuke. Although quickly ending up on the defensive against Naruto, he had been a little easier to handle without the clones. But it still hurt her pride to be so easily beaten, even if she knew Naruto wasn't the dead last many people had written him off to be.

However despite training for two hours before the rest of the team arrived Kakashi had insisted that they continue to train. Sakura didn't mind but it had shown her she still had a long way to go. Naruto had volunteered to carry her home. Naturally he was the only one to offer.

As she rested on his back she asked, "Naruto when's your birthday?"

"October tenth," Naruto replied right away.

"So you were born on the day of the Kyuubi attack?"

She felt his back tense, but he said, "Yeah…"

"Must have been hard sharing a birthday with such a terrible event?"

"Well I guess that might be why I never got many birthday presents, huh"

Sakura closed her eyes as she remembered that nobody ever gave him anything on his birthday in class like some of the other students did. She had oncen been given gifts by friends at school before her declaring herself as Ino's rival as after that almost all of the girls drifted apart and sometimes the teachers would announce whose birthday it was, but never for Naruto.

"Why'd you ask Sakura?"

"I…I wanted to know I guess since we're a team we should know when to celebrate."

She didn't need to see his face to know that he was smiling as he said, "I'd like that. Normally the Hokage would take me to Ichiraku. It would be nice to have a few more people show up."

"Aren't you going to ask me?"

"I already know your birthday is March 28," Naruto said surprising her.

"How…"

"A teacher announced it once and your friends brought you presents," Naruto said making her feel bad.

"That was when we first started at the academy Naruto," Sakura said surprised. "The year after that we all stopped being friends."

"I can remember things you know," Naruto said looking back at her with a smile.

"Really," she said jokingly.

"Hey," he said and although he sounded indigent she knew he wasn't offended.

Remembering her birthday the year after declaring her intentions to woo Sasuke, she was reminded of how disappointed she had felt since only one person had given her a gift. Thinking back she remembered that she had thought it was Sasuke since it had no name attached to it. When she had opened it she had found a ribbon for her hair. It had been a reddish-orange and she had almost worn it the next day to school but had opted to wear the one Ino had given her on the day they met. Looking back she knew it had been silly to think it had been from Sasuke but chalked it off to the follies of youth. But Naruto wouldn't be outside the realm of possibility deciding to ask she said, "Naruto, the next year I received a gift from someone but they didn't leave a name. Was that you?"

"Yep," he said, "But I guessed you didn't like it as you never wore it."

"Why didn't you say it was from you?"

"I didn't think you'd accept it then," Naruto said sadly.

She wished she could say that he was wrong, that she would have graciously accepted it but couldn't so said, "Naruto, thank you. I did like it. I just didn't wear it because the ribbon I always wore before was a gift from Ino. She gave it to me when we first became friends."

"If I had known you liked it I would of gotten you one every year," Naruto said. The earnest way he said it and despite her never giving him anything in return really solidified for her that it was the people around the jinchuriki that made them loners, not a desire of the poor people selected to host the Bijuu.

Tightening her hold around him she whispered, "Thank you Naruto." However this time she meant for keeping her and the village safe from the nine-tails.

"You already thanked me Sakura," Naruto said his tone showing he was a little confused.

Before she could respond they arrived at her home, so standing on her own power thanked him again before heading inside. Going up to her room she searched through one of her drawers pulling out the small box the ribbon Naruto had given her had been in. Inside was a handmade card that read, "For the most beautiful girl in the whole village."

Pulling the ribbon out she really should have known it had been from Naruto due to the color. Taking her headband off she placed it in her hair and had to admit it didn't look bad. It almost made her wish that it was wider, as she would have taken the metal plate of her headband off and put it on the ribbon if it had been a little bigger. Figuring she could use it with her normal clues, she put it on her dresser and got ready for bed.

As she waited for sleep to come, she came to the conclusion the Naruto was the jinchuriki of the nine-tails. But what she should do next was what she wasn't sure about. Should she tell him she knew? While she was sure that would make him happy, especially since she would tell him it didn't bother her. She believed she would prefer that he tell her himself, as then it would mean that he had come to trust her. Deciding to keep her revelation to herself for now she felt her eyelids get heavy. Allowing sleep to overtake her she vowed to one day prove to Naruto that he could trust her with his secret and maybe even something more precious.

Sasuke was angry, not an unusual state of being for him, but today it wasn't the normal cool undertone of anger and hatred he carried around for his brother. Today it was directed at Naruto. It had been bad enough to see how he handled the guards at Gato's headquarters. Yet what he saw today seemed to discredit everything that he had come to learn about the boy. Almost as if he had been lying to them from the beginning about his being the dead last loser of the academy as it was the only explanation that he could think of.

He had decided to see what his teammates were getting up to together while they waited for Kakashi. He had also begun to come later to the meeting point opting to train in the privacy of his home. However, both Naruto and Sakura's increase in skill was beginning to really bother him. He had done as his brother had said and lived to hate him while dedicating his training to the express purpose of destroying Itachi. So then why were the loser and one of his annoying fan girls improving faster than him?

To answer that question he had decided to spy on them. They had been resting apparently figuring it was late enough that Kakashi would show soon. It had been a flippant question by Sakura as she had simply asked, "Naruto just how many clones can you make?"

"I'm not sure," he replied. "I think a couple hundred."

Sasuke had scoffed, but Sakura had said completely serious, "Would you show me?"

"Sure Sakura," he said standing again. Creating the cross hand sign that Naruto used for the shadow clone jutsu Sasuke almost laughed as only five clones came into being. He was surprised when it appeared that Sakura was disappointed, almost like she expected him to actually do it. He found that annoying as she had been there when Kakashi had said that at most he could make was three. The loser could make five and although Gato's guards at the dock claimed to have been assaulted by more it was becoming apparent to Sasuke that they obviously had simple been overwhelmed by having to fight an actual ninja.

However, Naruto blew that thought away when he said, "Sorry, I guess five's just my go to number." Making the hand-sign again, he held it longer until chakra began to surround him and once the smoke cleared Sasuke couldn't believe his eyes as the whole training field was covered in clones.

Sasuke had left only to return shortly later but was surprised when Sakura didn't immediately tell Kakashi. Surely she must have felt it was abnormal, but instead she acted as if it was only natural for Naruto. Was that why she was hanging with him lately? Because she felt he was better than him now? Granted he wanted her to leave him alone for years, but found the idea that he was being replaced by Naruto of all people insulting.

What was worse was the supposed training they were receiving from Kakashi. He'd taught himself more dangerous jutsus then the masked shinobi had shown them. When he made a point of it Kakashi had only said that they were proceeding at a level normal for recently graduated genin and that the Wave mission was a fluke. That annoyed Sasuke. How was he supposed to awaken his eyes if they weren't going to be put in danger? Itachi had mastered the Sharingan at age eight. But the world had still been in chaos then having just finished the Third Great Shinobi War. So there had been plenty of opportunities for him to awaken them. Sasuke was finding the peace detrimental to his ambition.

Leaving the Uchiha compound he decided there was only one way to proceed. He'd challenge Naruto to a fight. Not a training spar where they were expected to hold back. He needed to test himself and felt that for the moment at least Naruto was the only one who could.

He found him and the pinkette leaving the restaurant that Naruto was always going on about. A quick look inside showed him a pile of dishes but none where Sakura had been sitting. Has she simply stayed to watch him eat?

They were both obviously surprised by his being there with Sakura saying, "Sasuke, what are you doing here?"

Ignoring her, Sasuke said, "Naruto, I want you to fight me."

He could see Naruto liked the idea, but it faded as he said, "We'll spar tomorrow at training. I'm too full to fight."

As Naruto began to walk away with a pleased Sakura, the Uchiha said, "What's a matter Scaredy Cat."

Naruto stopped before he turned glaring at the Uchiha saying, "What was that?"

"Let it go Naruto," Sakura said trying to pull Naruto with her.

He allowed himself to be pulled along, but again stopped when Sasuke said, "Humph, going to allow her to boss you around now."

"Sasuke leave him alone," Sakura said angrily surprising the Uchiha.

Snapping he said, "Be quiet Sakura this doesn't concern you."

"I'm a member of Team Seven," Sakura shot back.

"The weakest member," Sasuke said, "makes me wonder who the true dead last of the Academy was."

Sakura looked hurt, but the glare on Naruto's face made it worth it as he said, "Take that back."

"Why, were you attached to the title of being the biggest loser? Is that why you're afraid of accepting my challenge?"

"No," Naruto said angrily.

"Good then let's go," Sasuke said turning assuming Naruto would follow him.

Naruto looked to Sakura who shook her head no, but taking her hands of his arm said, "I'm sorry," before following after the Uchiha.

Sakura knew nothing good was going to come of a fight between her teammates. The best scenario she came up with was Naruto losing and that was simply because he'd train harder. But something told her if Sasuke lost that the anger she often sensed directed at Naruto and recently her would only grow stronger. Not sure how to stop them on her own she went in search of Kakashi hoping he could.

Naruto felt a little dirty for accepting Sasuke's challenge, since he felt he let Sakura down. But Sasuke had been one of the people he dreamed of one day surpassing so saw the coming match as an opportunity to see how far he had come since graduating the academy.

Standing at the training field where Team Seven was formed he smiled saying, "You ready to go down?"

However Sasuke apparently didn't feel like friendly banter scowling at him saying, "Don't hold back."

"Don't worry," Naruto said tightening his headband, "Today's the day I show you I'm not the deadlast anymore."

Sasuke charged as soon as Naruto got into his stance not messing around. Naruto blocked before throwing a punch that Sasuke caught. Pulling Naruto toward him he threw the blonde over his shoulder. Naruto rolled to his feet creating five clones causing Sasuke to say, "You're going to need a lot more than that, Naruto."

The first clone attacked going for a kick to the head that Sasuke blocked but was swept off his feet by a clone coming up behind him. Sasuke touched the ground with one hand preventing him from hitting the ground. But he barely blocked as the next clone closed with him throwing a punch that knocked him back, right into the grasp of another clone that spun him around. Disoriented he failed to block a kick to his chin which knocked him into the air. Landing hard on his back, he glared at Naruto as he sat up due to the smirk on the blonde's face.

"Fine," Sasuke said, "Time to take the kiddie gloves off."

Standing, he set himself preparing for Naruto's next charge. He didn't have to wait long as all five Naruto's attacked at the same time. Sasuke caught the first punch thrown at him throwing the clone into another one. The two clones exploded into smoke, freeing Sasuke to kick the clone that was trying to come up behind. Now with only two Naruto's left he said smiling, "Only two left, loser. I told you would need more."

But Naruto refused to give into Sasuke's taunts instead dispelling the remaining clone causing the Uchiha to say, "I told you. You're going to need more clones."

"Say it after you beat me," Naruto said.

Growling, Sasuke charged Naruto throwing several punches that the blonde blocked due to all the sparring with Sakura. As he blocked Sasuke's attacks, Naruto really marveled at how much his time with Sakura had helped him as instead of using clones to overwhelm his opponents defenses, since Sakura asked that he not use them, it made him more reliant on reading his opponents.

He smiled a little internally as Sasuke's attacks got sloppier and sloppier due to his frustration of not landing a solid blow against him yet. Opening a gap in his defense, he wasn't surprised when Sasuke took it lashing out with a kick that caught him in the chest. But since he was already falling back he lessened the damage. But when Sasuke tried to press his supposed advantage, he was surprised when Naruto recovered quickly and hit him in the chest.

Sasuke quickly found himself on the defensive again getting angry he managed to kick Naruto away. Flashing through several hand signs he took a deep breath and then breathed a stream of fire at his opponent. As the fire hit where his opponent was standing he heard Sakura scream, "Naruto!"

Sakura found Kakashi at his home. Banging on the door he answered holding his book in his hand. Despite the situation brewing, she idly wondered if he ever put the book down. "Where's the fire, Sakura?"

"Sasuke challenged Naruto to a fight," Sakura said hurriedly.

"I was afraid this would happen," Kakashi said throwing his book in the room and taking off towards the training grounds.

The pair arrived just as Sasuke's jutsu hit the blonde. Kakashi heard Sakura's scream and he was just about to move hoping that Naruto somehow avoided it, when a rumbling at Sasuke's feet drew his attention. Sasuke noticed it to, but too late to avoid as Naruto emerged using the headhunter jutsu, clocking Sasuke in the chin with an uppercut.

Glaring up at the blonde who glared back they were about to start up again when both Sasuke and Naruto were pinned by clones of Kakashi. "What do you two think you are doing?" Kakashi said angrily. "This is not how teammates are supposed to act."

Naruto looked ashamed while Sasuke simply stared up coldly at him. Sighing he said, "Tomorrow the two of you are going to perform whatever D-ranked missions that we get without pay. If this happens again, I'll see about getting the pair of you suspended. Do you both understand?"

"Yes Kakashi-sensei," Naruto said, sad he disappointed his teacher.

Sasuke simply nodded. The clones dispelled allowing both boys to stand. Sasuke immediately took off not even bothering to look at any of his team. Naruto looked like he wanted to say something but after opening and closing his mouth several times decided to simply head home. Sakura watched both her teammates head away from each other and asked, "Kakashi-sensei, why'd they do it? Why fight each other so hard?"

Sighing Kakashi said, "Sasuke's ambition, if you remember is to kill a certain man. However, the man is probably one of the greatest shinobi of this age. He felt confident in his ability in the academy because he was standing at the pinnacle of his world. Being thrust into the much larger world of shinobi he feels threatened by Naruto and you."

"I can understand Naruto," Sakura said, "but me."

"Don't underestimate yourself. Both you and Naruto have made some rather large strides due to your helping each other. As a result of your influence Naruto's become a little less brash and plans out his strategies more, and you aren't afraid to leap in and mix it up. Do you remember the first Hokage's saying of Heaven and Earth?"

Sakura nodded saying, "That the best shinobi are ones that find balances between their body and mind."

"Exactly," Kakashi said, "Anyways, go home and get some rest, it'll probably be a pretty tense day tomorrow."

It had been a long and trying day for Team Seven. Although, Sakura tried to play peacemaker between her teammates, both boys had spent most of the day glaring at each other. What was worse for the sensei of Team Seven was the summons he had received. He knew what it was for, and didn't know exactly what to do now. He figured he'd let the other Rookie Sensei go first before making his decision.

Entering the roomful of Jounin, he sat towards the back, but was forced to come forward as the Hokage said, "Let us here from the leaders of the Rookie Teams first."

"I, Kurenai Yuuhi, Leader of Team Eight whose members are Hinata Hyuuga, Kiba Inuzuka, and Shino Aburame, do hereby nominate my squad for the Chunin Exams."

Kakashi could hear the clamor as the first rookie team in five years was nominated for the exams. It rose in volume as Asuma also nominated his team.

Feeling all eyes on him he said, "I, Kakashi Hatake, squad leader of Team Seven whose members are, Sasuke Uchiha, Sakura Haruno, and Naruto Uzumaki, do not recommend my team for the Chunin Exams." As expected the room exploded in volume as they began to speculate why the team with the Rookie of the Year wouldn't be participating. He heard a few shinobi suggest it was due to Naruto.

Before he could give his reason the Hokage demanded silence saying, "Very well, let us move forward, Gai what about you."

Listening with half an ear as Gai nominated his team, Kakashi hoped that in the end he made the right decision in refusing to let his team participate. But now that the decision was made, would just half to live with the outcome whatever it may be.