Pain blossomed in my side and I had to bite my tongue to prevent from screaming out. My voice muffled into his shoulder, "I was waiting for you to say that."

He pulled away, "I'll see you at the tent." With that, he fled in the direction of Akamaru and disappeared.

Ready to help more Konoha Ninja, I eyed a tree that was tall enough to act as a look out. It towered above me, looking aged but healthy and sturdy. Focusing on the chakra in my feet, I ran up the trunk until the thick, long branches were slender and short. My hands gripped the twig above me and I steadied on the thin branch that was holding my weight. I saw a grass field that was littered with bodies and weapons. Then my eyes landed on the group of Sound Shinobi being forced back by Konoha Shinobi.

I watched in silence as the Sound Ninja retreated, their mouths moving and their arms waving in attempt to signal something. The ringing in my head went silent, but then a loud roar of shouts filled in my eardrums.

"Fire has won! The war is over!"

I felt myself go stiff. I gripped the twig above me until it snapped it two.

Medical Ninjas took the floor. All the Shinobi that weren't miraculously injured were sent back to Konoha, while the ones that needed treatment were carried to the Konoha Infirmary tent.

Shizune filled me in on the details of our victory. She told me that Konoha had lost quite the number of Ninjas, but somehow we had pulled through and won by sheer power. "Quality over quantity," she said.

The infirmary was a giant white tent in the middle of the forest, shrouded in trees and bushes with glossy green grass that went up to your ankle. I could only stare at the giant, bright red cross while stray screams and painful moans escaped the haven.

"Forehead, are you alright?" Ino shook my shoulder.

I blinked a couple of times and looked over at my friend. I pulled on a tight smile, "Yeah. I'm just hoping this is the last fight." Wouldn't that be nice? I hadn't forgotten what it was like living in peace, but it certainly sounded silly hearing it these days.

"I heard you got kissed by some paper bombs," she added with a hint of mockery in her tone.

Anger suddenly started to boil deep inside of me, but I could only scoff and force myself to stat silent. I ran my eyes over her and couldn't help but notice her hands were sparkled clean and her showered and glossy hair were tied up neatly. The words spilled from my mouth, "Ino-Pig, did you even save anyone out there?"

Her mouth opened in shock, "Of course I did! I just do things more with elegance. I don't like blood, you know?" Ino proceeded to look offended as she put her hands on her hip and gave me an irritated look.

"You're a Medic Ninja." I simply say, hoping that she understands the hidden message. When she doesn't reply I shrug it off and change the subject. "How is everything in there?" I gesture to the tent.

She shrugs and offers me a smile, "Everybody seems in stable condition, so pretty great."

"Do you know anything about on the field?" I asked.

"Yeah. A lot of people died." Despite the dark joke, I chuckled and so does she. "I heard that the Sound Ninja abandoned their wounded, though. Wouldn't even go back to rescue them."

"Wait, what?" I heard what she said, but I couldn't stop the words from slipping out. "Well, is Konoha going to help them?"

Ino frowned, "Why should we help them?"

The question rang in my mind even after Ino left to go back to work in the tent.

Just imaging the torture of the pain one must be going through was enough to motive me to decide that I wanted to help them. Coming to that conclusion I'm puzzled on what to do next. Suddenly, the devil appeared on my right shoulder as the angel appeared on the left, whispering in my ear telling me their opinions.

The devil would bluntly say, "Who cares about the enemy? You've been battling against Sound Ninja for how long? Years? They deserve whatever kind of pain they're in now. All of them are worthless, they only care about themselves, they've killed hundreds of Konoha Shinobi without any hesitation. Trust me, if you go, you'll only find trouble. Especially with that teacher of yours when you come back."

The angel would plead to me, "Sound has never abandoned their own kind before, I mean, at least not like this! It's the right thing to do, people out there are dying and in pain. Yes, they've killed Konoha Ninja, but we've killed so many of them, too! The war is over and that also comes with a truce. They aren't your enemy anymore."

Without taking much notice I pace back and forth, rubbing my chin as I do so. I pinch the bridge of my nose and sigh so loudly that a few stray birds in the grass take flight. I glanced back over at the tent to find no one around. Thinking nothing of it, my hands performed the complex signs, "Kage Bunshin No Jutsu!"

A white cloud appeared next to me and familiar green eyes stared into mine. "I'll take care of things here," she said. I watched as my clone strolled in to the tent and vanish.

Feeling a little bit more reassured, I headed back to were the blood was being spilled a few hours earlier. I leaped through the trees until my surroundings became nostalgic. My feet landed near a patch of blood and a few stray kunai that were sticking out of the ground.

I gasped as my eyes fell on the countless pale, dead bodies that laid across the grass field. To my right a few feet away, a head was split open and the brain was showing. I should be used to these things as a Medical Ninja, but the sight leaves me speechless.

I would have kept staring at the gruesome scene if I had not heard a faint grunt from behind me. Out of reflex, I grabbed my kunai in the back of my pouch and turned around. My eyes found the source of the noise and I studied the man by my feet. He laid on his stomach with a Sound headband tied around his upper arm. The man's hair was dark black and reached down to his thick eyebrows. When he tried to reach out and grab my leg, I stepped back. Noticing my evasion, he lifted his head with visible effort.

When his dark eyes met mine, they appeared empty. Although, he regarded me in a way that showed he was studying my next move.

"Are you from Sound?" the man's voice sounded hoarse and dry.

Kneeling down, I flipped the man's body over so he was on his back. I was surprised to see both of his legs were broken, he had internal bleeding, and his ear had been cut off. It has been days since the war has been over. How is this man still conscious?

"You are not from Sound, are you?"

"No," I replied. I tried to spot any conflicting emotions on his face, but he held his blank stare.

"What is your name?" the Sound Ninja asked.

I hesitated, "Who are you?"

"Ryu Tanaka." he managed a smile.

I nodded, "I'm Sakura Haruno, a Medical Ninja." As soon as the words left my mouth, I felt the need to suck them back in.

His poker face finally fell and his eyes glimmered with hope. He reached up to grab my arm and this time I let him touch me. "Please, Sakura." He gripped so tightly that my blood wasn't circulating through my hand. "I need to get back home."

"You were fighting against my comrades. Why should I save you?" My eyes narrowed dangerously at him, reminding him that he is the enemy.

His black eyes widened and they grew frantic; glancing back and forth across my face.

Instead of answering, he coughed violently and let go of my hand to cover his mouth. "I'm getting dizzy, and I can't hear very well," he choked out between wheezes. After regaining his composure, his eyes met mine again. "Sakura, I have a five year old son. His mother was killed," he paused, "died during child birth. If I'm gone, then he wouldn't have anyone! Please!"

My gut told me he isn't lying, so I feel sympathy and believe him. I held up my hands as they glowed green, "Alright."

As soon as I landed in front of the infirmary tent, I heard my teacher's booming voice.

"Sakura, where the hell have you been?" Tsunade came bursting out of the Medical Tent. I glanced behind her and watched Shizune trail after the raging Hokage.

"I was at the field. I just wanted to make sure nobody was left behind," I half lied.

Tsunade crossed her arms over her chest and exhaled a frustrated sigh, "Sakura, I need you here healing these people, not your clone. This is the aftermath of a battle, I can't afford you shirking your responsibilities. Understand?"

Feeling the guilt finally settle in, I nod. "Sorry, Tsunade. I will get to work right away."

I opened the flaps of the infirmary tent were my eyes roamed over hundreds of beds. All of them were occupied with wounded Konoha Ninjas. Medical Ninjas in white robes scurried around the area with clip boards in their hands and wore strenuous faces. It reeked of sweat and blood with a mix of herbs and medicine in the air.

"Hey Sakura."

I look over to find Kiba sitting beside a bed that Akamaru was using. I try not to frown as I study his bandaged face. "You're not going to lie down?"

He smirked, "Nah. All the beds have been taken up and I would rather have Akamaru use one."

"How is he doing?"

Kiba's smile went straight, "Ino said he should be alright, but...she said he wont be able to fight anymore." He gazed helplessly down at his dog, "And I don't think I could go into combat alone."

I stared down at Akamaru and decided that was a possibility, but he certainly could still fight. "What matters right now is that you stay by his side." I smiled reassuringly at Kiba and patted the white beast's fur. "Once he wakes up, the first thing he'll be wondering is where you are." The rheumatic pounding of Akamaru's heartbeat is now strong. I peek up at the Canine Ninja and found him staring wide eyed at me; almost waiting for me to say more. "If Akamaru were to still fight with you, he wouldn't be the same. I mean, he lost an ear and an eye, that would cause dramatic changes in the five senses."

When I went to peek another look at him, all I saw was a huge grin that was as bright as a flashlight. "I don't care at all! I'll fight along side him, no matter what. I'll be his left eye, and he'll be my right," He reached over to pet his dog lovingly. He stared up at me, "I guess I was wrong about you."

I was about to question his statement when a shrill shriek came from the entrance of the tent.

My panic only intensified as my eyes landed on Ino. A man stood in front of her while piercing a kunai dagger through her chest. Ino's arms stood stretched out protectively; behind her a Konoha Shinobi was unconscious in bed. The attacker slowly pulled out his kunai as Ino slumped to the ground. I watched in horror as Shizune come up behind and knock the man out. Whispers and murmurs broke out in the infirmary and they gossiped among themselves, wondering if there was going to be retaliation or an ambush from Sound.

"Ino!" I screamed and was instantly kneeling next to my friend. "Ino! Ino-Pig, you have to stay awake," I demanded. My chakra was low after healing Tanaka, but I summoned up enough to stop the bleeding.

"Forehead, I know," She moaned and blood started to creep out her mouth.

How the hell did an enemy get inside?

Suddenly, I remembered that the tent had been void of guards. I squeezed my eyes shut and clenches my teeth in rage. How could we just assume the war is over, especially when it has only been a few days?

I glance around to find a few nurses observing me from a distance. I flag them over and instruct them to keep an eye on Ino and make sure she does not go to sleep.

I marched outside the tent to find Shizune and Tsunade with the attacker. I can only image the humility the Hokage is going through, letting someone slither unseen into her hospital like a snake. No doubt this is going to taint her sanity.

They had the man tied up to a tree with ropes that were made out of chakra strings. Shizune held them firmly in her hand while Tsunade was shaking the man awake.

"Wake up," she growled.

The man kept his head down; acting as if he was still asleep. His irregular breaths and his flittering eyes gave away his cover.

Tsunade grabbed a fistful of his hair and yanked his head up to meet her in the eyes, "Who the hell are you?"

My breath hitched as I got a good view of the intruder.

"Your headband says your from Sound, but I thought you retreated days ago." Tsunade muttered half to herself.

He didn't answer. I cringed as Tsunade gripped his hair tighter. "Why the hell do you have bandages?" Tsunade's face clouded in confusion, ready to set free what little patience she had left. "I suggest you answer my questions if you want to live."

The man finally opened his eyes to glare at his interrogator. "My name is Ryu Tanaka." Our eyes locked and I silently pleaded that that's all he'll say. He looks hesitant, but continues, "Sakura Haruno bandaged me up real nice."

In the corner of my eye I caught the Hokage's eyes widen and her mouth open slightly in shock.

"She gave me the chance to take revenge on you cold-blooded Konoha Ninjas!" He spat.

I fisted my hands until my knuckles turned white. What a little, dirty ra-

"Is he telling the truth, Sakura?" the Hokage let Tanaka's head fall as she released her grip on his chin. She stood up and turned to face me, her eyes gleaming with anger. "Well?" When I failed to reply, I saw her patience wiggle and slip out of her grasp. In a blur, she was in front of me. Without any hesitation she reached out and gripped my shoulders, threatening to leave bruises.

"I..." I didn't dare to meet her in the eyes. It reminded me of challenging a furious and pissed off lion in a staring contest.

What should I say? What can I say?

I should mention the man's son. Yes, that should ease the tension.

Carefully, I looked up into my teacher's eyes. It took me a moment to remember how to breathe as she held my gaze.

"The man...was barely alive when I found him. He told me he had a son waiting for him at home. You expect me to walk away from that, Tsu-"

"Yes I do!" Tsunade nails dug into my skin. "And because of your stupid decision that was based off of a simple lie, Ino is in critical condition!"

I only felt the tension rise.

My blood boiled, "I didn't know he was going to attack us! I thought he would be thankful and go home to his son!" I yelled. My attention tore away from the angry Hokage in front of me to the man in the back.

His expression displayed amusement.

I wrenched myself away from my teacher's grip. I strode up to him and stopped mere inches away. "Why would you lie about something like that," I muttered.

Tanaka finally peered up at me and smiled thoughtfully, "Do not misunderstand me, Sakura. Please, I am forever indebted to you."

I scoffed, "You repay me by stabbing my friend?"

He sobered and gave me a look, "You must understand, Sakura, because of Konoha, my friends are all dead! Revenge..." his dark eyes gleamed with malice and hatred. "Revenge is the only thing that will satisfy me...that will put me at peace!"

I frowned down at the broken man in disappointment. "What about your son? Are you going to leave him for revenge?" I asked, but I already knew the answer.

His lips sealed shut.

The Hokage snorts and rolls her eyes, "He is of no use. Kill him."

Shizune hesitated, but pulled the chakra rope tighter.

I looked away and covered my ears with the palms of my hands. His screaming lasted a few seconds until a strangled gurgling noise was coming out of his throat. I wanted to step out of range, but his blood had already spread across my uniform.

I sighed. I need to take a shower.

"Good," Tsunade said. She nodded at Shizune and turned her attention down at me. "When we get back to Konoha, I would like a word with you," I nodded and bowed with as much respect as I could show her.

When I peeked up at their retreating backs, I caught a glimpse of Shizune offering me an apologetic smile.

"Sakura?" I heard Kiba's voice call for me. I saw his head poke out from inside the tent and turn right to left, looking for pink. When the Hokage and Shizune passed him, he bowed until they were inside. He stepped out of the infirmary and I saw his good eye land on the blood.

"Kiba...Im over here," I stepped out from behind the tree so he could see my intact body. I laughed as I watched him put his hand on his head and take a sigh of relief.

"For a second there I - " he smiled and didn't bother to finish the sentence. I was surprised to see that he was now gazing at me with a worried expression. "Listen, I heard what the Hokage said..." he turned to the unrecognizable body that laid against the tree, "And what this guy had said."

I sighed, "Kiba, I am a Medical Ninja. There was a dying man in front of me...You can't possibly expect me to walk away from that?"

"I understand your point Sakura," He frowned, "But I think the Hokage is right." I mimicked his frown and my shoulders slumped. He took notice and immediately tried to cheer me up, "You have a kind heart, Sakura. Just don't let it cloud your judgement on these type of things." He approached me and swung his arms around my shoulders. "Lets go check on Ino," he said as he led me back into the infirmary.

"Everyone! Listen up!" I looked over from talking with Ino and Kiba to see Tsunade in front of the entrance of the Konoha Infirmary tent. She was holding her arms up, trying to get our attention. "We have been here for more than three weeks and everyone's injuries have been either fully healed or good enough to travel. I think its time to head home!"

When we arrived at the gates of our village, the remainder of Konoha's civilians were there to welcome us back. It was a small crowd compared to what it once was, but its level of noise didn't go down even one octave. They cheered and hollered with so many mixed emotions; pride, happiness, and reassurance.

One loud, annoying voice stuck out of the group.

"Sakura? Where is Sakura?"

For the first time in weeks, a huge grin split across my face and my eyes lit up like light bulbs. I saw an orange suited Ninja make his way threw the crowd, pushing and shoving to get in the front. When he popped out he stumbled a little, but regained his balance.

"Naruto!" I cried as I ran up to him. His expression resembled mine when he caught sight of me. He opened his arms wide enough for me to jump in to. I wrapped my arms around his shoulders and buried my face into the crook of his neck. "Naruto, I missed you!"

Over the years of literally being thrown into battle, the two of us have become close. A lot closer than we were years ago. It took time, but I realized that I needed him. He became my sanity and an outlet for me to vent my frustration. That's all he was until we started talking and actually having fun together. Even in the worst of situations I found myself craving his attention and recognition. He must of felt the same because he responded with too much enthusiasm when I would ask him about his day. I didn't know it, but he became my best friend.

His laughter vibrated his against his throat, "I was worried about you the whole time, Sakura!"

He untangled my arms from his shoulders and pushed me away gently. He observed me for whatever reason.

Naruto smiled thoughtfully as he gazed down at me. "Want to go to Ichiraku? Its been a while since we've been there."

A rumble escaped my belly and I felt heat rush to my cheeks. Naruto laughed wholeheartedly and grabbed my hand. Before I could comment, Tsunade's voice called out to me.

"Sakura." Naruto stopped and we turned around to see Tsunade standing behind us. "You can eat with your teammate later, I want you in my office now." Without waiting for my reply, she vanished in a white puff of smoke.

Naruto looked confused, "What did she want to talk to you about?"

My heart plummeted and I couldn't stop the obvious frown form on my lips. I look down at my toes, "I better go find out." I let my hand go limp and waited for Naruto to do the same.

"Sakura, did something happen?" He stared at me in concern. He tightened the grip on my hand, egging me to tell him.

"Naruto, you worry to much," I mustered him one of my fake smiles. I shrug nonchalantly, "She probably wants to discuss my work at the hospital." He looks me over for a moment and nods, dropping my hand.

"You wanted to talk about Tanaka, didn't you?" I asked as I closed the Hokage's door behind me.

The Hokage frowned at me as she leaned back in her chair, "Sakura, after your recent actions I had been in deep thought about your punishment." She exhales loudly and massages her temples. "Are you even aware that you committed a crime that acts as a betrayal?"

My eyes widened in shock. Betrayal? "Tsunade, I did not betr-"

"I don't want to hear it, Sakura. I know what you did and why you did it, but it won't change anything if you try to explain it to me again. I don't want to do this," Tsunade sat upright in her chair.

I felt hot water swell in the back of my eyes, threatening to fall. She can't possibly-

"You are banished from Konoha. I'll give you until tonight to pack up and leave."

"You've got to be joking! Tsunade-Sama, I'm your student I'd never turn my back against you!" I screamed, showing the raw desperation in my voice.

"It's been already decided."

"Can't we talk-"

Her voice exploded in rage, "LEAVE!"

The room fell silent. I felt my two legs move and I was out in the hallway, shutting the Hokage's doors behind me.