TA-DA! It's late but i blame school :) Here it is and enjoy!
Leaves flashed by in the blur as the large company of shinobi sprinted across their branches. They were nearing Konoha just one more day and they would be at the gates and back into the village they loved. At the center of the large group were the Haruno kunoichis. They followed easily and their natural mastery of chakra allowed them to keep pace for the majority of the day. But it was obvious that their reserves were weak. More breaks than was typical were given in order for the depraved women to catch their breaths and replenish their energy.
Naruto signaled a halt and the company of shinobi landed gracefully on the ground. It was break time and judging by the panting behind him the women needed it. He turned on his higher branch and observed them. He had to admit while they weren't very trained in combat the Haruno women were definitely smart. All of them had the younger generation strapped to their backs because they knew the small children would not be able to sprint as the elders could. They had fashioned makeshift harnesses out of their bedrolls and put the children on their backs while their packs were secured to the front. Naruto was impressed that after only one example of how to make the harness the rest accomplished it without messing up once. Kaminari had explained that since they were never taught how to read they had to learn to mimic. And if their copy skills, of any seal given to them, were incorrect they were punished. So needless to say every woman learned very quickly to never make a mistake.
A large gust of wind drew his attention upward where Kaze was slowly descending with Mizuko. The wind user had the brilliant idea to transport Mizuko by creating a strong wind harness and attaching it to her body. Kaze would then pull her sister along like a horse does a carriage and she could also protect her should an ambush cross them since the harness covered her entire body like a shield. And right now Kaze was slowly lowering her sister to the ground so she could rest before resuming their journey.
"Mizuko nee-chan, I'm hungry," one six year old said in a slightly whiny voice.
"I know Moeka but you will have to wait until we stop and can make dinner," Mizuko smoothed her hand over her cheek in a soothing manner.
The small girl's chocolate brown eyes became downcast and she went to sit by some of the girls her age. Mizuko sighed resigned…this journey, even if they weren't the ones running, was very trying for them. She was lucky Kaze offered to be her transport, she wasn't sure if she would be able to make the journey in her present condition. Ryuu had offered to carry her but the medics argued that jostling her pregnant body would be unwise. That's when Kaze spoke up in her silent way and then the group was on their way.
"Ummm, Mizuko-san."
Said woman looked up to see a large man with swirls on his cheeks and long brown hair approach her.
"My name is Choji," he bowed slightly, "I have some snacks that I keep on me in case I get hungry. I would like to share if that's ok with you."
Mizuko smiled and nodded before beckoning the children over. Their excitement increased tenfold when Choji began passing out rations from his private stash.
"Thank you Choji-san that's very kind of you."
The Akimichi looked up expecting to see the pregnant woman but instead pale yellow eyes and the reddest lips he had ever seen captured his attention. He quickly looked away to hide his embarrassment for staring at her.
"Oh…ummm it's my pleasure," he stumbled out a little nervous, "Would you like some too?"
Akahana bowed her head, "No that's ok I can wait until we make camp. But thank you for the offer."
Choji nodded hastily then turned away a small blush creeping onto his cheeks. Shikamaru and Ino watched from the side then gave each other knowing looks.
The ANBU of the group had been assigned as general guardians. They were in charge of the perimeter set ups and take down for the large group and were usually the first to pull watch. During the breaks they stood as sentries scanning the surrounding forests for any hostiles that might try to creep up on their group. Although if they did chance upon any enemy or wandering shinobi in general said group would be foolish to try an approach such a large company. For the past three days the forests had been quiet and no suspicious activity had been sensed.
Until today.
"Do you feel that?" one ANBU asked.
"Hai…" the other answered, "Radio around the perimeter group and tell them to be on high alert. I'll report to Uzumaki."
"Hai."
The purple haired ANBU with a cat mask jumped from her assigned perch and appeared silently next to Naruto who was talking jovially with Kaminari and Sasuke.
"Uzumaki-san, we have a situation," the ANBU reported.
The reaction was immediate; as soon as the words left her mouth everyone froze and all conversation stilled.
"What is it?" Naruto asked his eyes hardening. They were one day away from Konoha and everything had gone smoothly so far so what in the world was the problem.
"We have a…feeling."
"A feeling?" Sasuke's eyes narrowed.
"Hai, we're not able to sense anything in particular but the forest is too still. Someone or something is out there," Cat responded.
Naruto nodded, "Hyuuga's and Inuzuka's ya'll sense anything!"
Everyone waited as the clansmen concentrated and Naruto turned to the bug user, "Shino send out some of your bugs and see if they can latch onto a chakra signature."
"Hai," he answered softly.
Five minutes passed and all answers came back as negative.
Naruto growled to himself, "I guess we'll do it the old fashioned way. Cat rally all ANBU and head in the direction that your gut is telling you. Whoever or whatever you find bring it back to me."
"Hai," Cat nodded and was about to take off when Mizuko stopped her.
"Wait! I have an idea," the woman called over a small girl, her long violet hair tied in pig tails, "This is Yukari and she was Tetsu's latest experiment."
"What do you mean?" Naruto asked turning to face her. Cat also remained to see what the woman had to say.
"After he succeeded in creating me, Ryuu, Kaminari, and Kaze; he set to create the ultimate chakra sensor. Yukari was his first success but she had unforeseen complications. He was going to try again with my child."
"What are her abilities specifically?" Kakashi asked his interest definitely peeked.
"Yukari's ability is similar to a technique that a few Uzumaki's were known to use. It's called, as I was told, Mind's Eye Technique."
Sasuke's eyes narrowed, there was only one person he knew who possessed that ability and she was long dead. Although, he glanced at the bright red head Akahana, If Orochimaru sold her…
"Yukari can see any living being within a ten mile radius. Chakra levels or suppression don't matter; if it's alive she can see it," Mizuko explained.
"What were the complications?" Naruto asked looking over the girl.
"She has to keep her Inner seal away because it renders her immobile. But if by 'regular means' you cannot see what's out there, she can. And we've vowed to assist you."
Naruto looked at the small girl who was looking up at him with wide eyes. He could detect a small amount of fear but it didn't seem to be directed at him…but more at the thought of using her ability.
He crouched down next to her with a large smile, "Hey Yukari-chan, would you mind helping us out?"
She continued to stare until Mizuko prompted her to answer with a small nudge.
"You won't hurt me afterward?" she whispered bringing her hands up to her lips.
His big blue eyes softened as he shook his head no, "I promise."
"Come sit with me," Mizuko was helped down and she held Yukari next to her, "Unseal yourself."
Lifting her shirt to reveal her belly button Yukari placed her small hand over the X, "Kai!"
They watched as her eyes changed to silver and rolled to the back of her head. Mizuko held her tightly to her side while the girl began to groan.
"Do you have a general direction?" Mizuko asked Naruto while her eyes stayed trained to the small girl.
"North Northeast," Cat replied.
"Nee-chan…" Yukari whined rubbing her eyes, "It hurts!"
"Shhhh," the elder cooed, "Just looked real quick for me baby. Look to your right and a little bit in to the left. Can you do that for me?"
"Haaaaiii…"
They watched as her eyes began to flit around as if she was looking in five directions at once, "Nothing."
"Look farther then but were not looking for animals. Do you see any people? You might not recognize them."
"It hurts nee-chan!" Yukari whined while Mizuko stroked her face.
"Just keep looking, it'll be over soon I promise," she cooed.
"Hey Mizuko-chan if she needs to stop…" Naruto started but Mizuko cut him off with a shake of her head.
"It always hurts while she's doing it. Once she's resealed the pain goes away. This is why she's the experiment. He wanted to make it so the pain was not a factor."
Their attention was drawn back to Yukari as she continued to moan in pain. Her hands would constantly rubbed her lids to try and alleviate the pain but she knew it was fruitless until she found what they wanted her to find. Her sight zoomed in and out as she analyzed al the chakra from living forms that crossed her path. It was dizzying, verging on the point of nausea. But she couldn't let her sisters down. She needed to find something to tell them. Something…that others could not see…
There!
Silver eyes shot open and her body froze as she focused on the beating hearts of the perpetrators.
"Yukari what do you see baby?" Mizuko asked a little frightened at her stillness…she never freezes like that.
"H-h-h-h-Harunos!" she shouted as tears began leaking from her eyes, "They found us nee-chan! They found us!"
"How many?" she asked a little frightened at Yukari's declaration.
"F-four!"
"What direction?"
Yukari lifted her hand and pointed East Northeast.
"Cat all ANBU are to apprehend those four and bring them to me," Naruto ordered.
"Hai!" she replied before signaling to her masked comrades.
Naruto looked back at the little Haruno to see her eyes were dark green once more. She was subtly shaking and her eyes were still wide with fright.
"Is she ok?"
Mizuko nodded, "She'll be fine. Seeing our clansmen just frightened her."
Naruto knelt next to the little girl and turned her face so she looked into his eyes.
"Yukari," he said in a soft but unyielding voice, "I won't let them hurt you anymore."
She stared at him but he could see her large doe green eyes fill with hope, "You promise?"
He nodded firmly once before giving her his award winning smile, "Yes believe it!"
She smiled hesitantly suddenly happy that someone like Naruto was there to make her feel good…feel safe. He wasn't going to punish her for undoing her seal and she had helped him and had helped the people who had been nothing but nice to her and her sisters since they met them. She nodded accepting his promise.
Naruto stood then his smile still plastered on his face, "Uchihas, you have outer perimeter until ANBU returns. Konoha 12 and sensei's surround the Harunos. Team Kakashi with me."
The Konoha shinobi immediately followed the commander's orders then waited patiently for the ANBU to return. Itachi had walked up to the Harunos and left Sakura in Kaminari's care while he joined his brethren in the outer circle. Then they waited…listening for the slightest rustle of leaves signaling the ANBU's return with the four captives.
Then there it was and the next second four squads of ANBU dropped into view each guarding one prisoner. The culprits were four men all varying in shape and size and coloring just like the women. ANBU forced them all to their knees while Naruto and his team approached all wearing various unfriendly faces.
"Haruno men," Naruto intoned folding his arms, "Excellent tracking skills, how did you find us?"
Nobody answered although there was one on the edge wouldn't stop fidgeting.
"What's the matter, cat got your tongue? Or are you too weak to answer," he baited.
"We're not weak!" one defended and he was immediately punched.
Naruto held his hand up and walked up to the second man on the left, "If you're not weak then what are you?"
The man held his tongue but it was blatantly obvious that he wanted to say something. Naruto eyed him for a moment then rephrased his first question.
"Why did you find us?" he asked with sincere curiosity.
At his question all three of the men all sagged in…depression…resignation? He couldn't really tell, but there was an obvious reluctance to what they were about to say.
"We wanted to be free…just like the girls are," the second man answered in a subdued tone.
"Weren't you the ones living in a lap of luxury while these women were beaten, tortured, and raped by you and the other men? Weren't they the ones who were held prisoner while you lived free?" he asked with a slightly hard tone.
"It's…it's not like that…" the man on the end said softly.
"Do enlighten us then," Kakashi eyed him with his arms folded.
"We never had a choice," the third spoke up with a slight edge in his tone, "We never had a choice the same as them."
"You mean that to say that you raped these women under pressure," Naruto scoffed, "Their fear is genuine while your pitiful excuses I find it hard to believe. I've met plenty of men like you, and from what I already know and what I've seen with my own eyes…you're nothing but a bunch of self-absorbed liars."
"We speak the truth!" the second yelled but the ANBU kept him from jumping up to defend his claim.
"Hn, and why should we believe you?" Sasuke sneered at the second man.
"Because…" the fourth mean whispered, "They weren't the only ones to suffer while under Tetsu's leadership."
Naruto stood from his crouched position and walked to the man on the end. He stood before the prisoner and just watched…taking in the small movements and his own feelings towards this man. To be honest he really didn't know what happened or what went on with the men. Based on the videos he assumed that all the men were the same, just vile, corrupt, lecherous tyrants who liked to take advantage of women and make them suffer. All the Harunos have stated as such but…was there more going on behind the scenes.
Hushed gasps echoed around him as he turned and saw the women looking at the four men with wide eyes. They obviously knew who they were and maybe their knowledge could help him make a better decision about these men.
"Would some of you mind coming up here for a minute?" he asked the watching women.
Ryuu and Kaze strode forward confidently as did some of the other elder women and younger girls. The children stayed behind with Kaminari and Mizuko and the other who didn't want to approach the men. Their fear and hatred was still too fresh.
"I want to know who they are and anything else you can tell me about these men," Naruto requested looking at Ryuu.
Her golden eyes shifted quickly between them but they paused and widened at the first man…It couldn't be. Kaze nudged her shoulder and nodded rapidly with excitement shining in her eyes.
"Zanza?" Ryuu whispered and walked up to the kneeling man who began to fidget rapidly, "Look at me boy."
Slowly with a slight twitch the large man looked up and began to whine in recognition. Unable to keep eye contact for long periods of time he looked away again before his hand began hitting his head.
"Zanza!" Ryuu exclaimed happily and pulled him into a hug, "Dear Kami where have you been? Mizuko! Get over here!"
Shuffling could be heard as the pregnant woman made her way over to Ryuu. As soon as she saw who it was she gasped in joy before grabbing his shirt roughly and pulling him into a hug, well as good a hug as she could give him in her condition.
"I thought you died!" Mizuko exclaimed her tears running down her cheeks, "Dear sweet Kami how I've missed you!"
The waiting Konoha nin watched the reunion with shocked and slightly confused faces. This was definitely as odd occurrence considering their backgrounds. Over the past two days the women had shared some of their stories with their rescue party; some tales were happy but the majority, were sad. Needless to say everyone in the group had a new respect for them and what they went through and every single person was shocked to see this kind of reaction out of these women.
"Mizuko nee-chan," Naruto asked clearing his throat, "Who is this?"
Mizuko pulled away and kissed his brow and two cheeks. The man's eyes softened momentarily before he began beating his head again. Mizuko's firm grip ceased the action.
"Don't, it's ok, Kami I've missed you," she kissed him one more time then turned to Naruto.
"This man is the only one who ever stood up to Tetsu and fought for our rights. He disagreed about our treatment and made it no secret about his feelings. For two weeks we were safe until Tetsu decided to put an end to his disloyalty. I never knew Tetsu kept him alive…" she choked squeezing the man's hands, "He's my younger brother."
Surprise replaced confusion among the ninja.
"I thought he died three years ago. But he's alive! I never knew…" she turned back to embrace him again only this time the large man had an adverse reaction to her affection. Ryuu noticed the change instantaneously and quickly pulled Mizuko out of harm's way. The ANBU wrestled the man to the ground where he thrashed trying to break their hold.
"Zanza stop! Quit fighting!" Mizuko yelled while Ryuu held onto her and Kaze stepped between them protectively.
He stilled and panted heavily from the exertion…but he hardly fought? Why was he so tired?
"He can't help it," the third man said, "He doesn't have a choice anymore."
"Explain," Kakashi demanded.
The three men shared a glance before the fourth one spoke, "This was his punishment for his disloyalty. When Tetsu found out that Zanza had organized a night for the women to escape he became enraged. He disabled him permanently by making Shinta suck his Inner dry, so for the rest of his life he has little to no power. Then to make it worse Tetsu cut out his tongue so that he could never speak to his sister or the other women again. And lastly he was sealed. We're not sure exactly what was used on him but…it changed him. His actions aren't his own anymore but there are times when you can see the real man. That moment when Mizuko first walked up I could see him behind the seal."
"Why didn't Tetsu just kill him?" Sasuke asked.
"He was an example for us," the fourth replied, "To show us what would happen if decided to escape or free the women. He made Zanza an example that living without control of whom or what you are is worse than a death sentence. We three were a part of his coup to free the kunoichis…"
"Why didn't you tell them that he was still alive?" Naruto asked.
"We were ordered not to. And if we disobeyed then we would suffer the same fate," the second responded, "Do you believe us now?"
"Dunno I haven't decided yet," Naruto shrugged, "Answer this one question first, how come our sensor types couldn't feel you?"
The second looked up with a smug smirk, "We've sealed our chakra so we can't be sensed by any ninja. It'sa special seal that Tetsu has us learn. We can access our full chakra but nobody can sense us."
Naruto nodded then turned and caught a pair of onyx eyes. He nodded his head towards Itachi then signaled for his team to follow him. They convened a few feet away.
"I have…no idea what to make of this…" Naruto ran a hand over his face.
"It seems odd that Mizuko didn't mention him before," Sai said.
"Odd but understandable, she thought he was dead," Kakashi mused.
"But all four of them?" Sasuke scowled, "Four men out of…however many they had, that didn't hate them, I can't believe it."
"Why not?" Naruto asked.
"Look at the other women," Sasuke nodded his head in their direction, "Some of them are scared stiff looking at those guys. It's the same fearful look they had when telling their stories. Those men hurt those women in some way or another. And they were obviously cowards not to follow through with that Zanza guy's original plan of escape."
"What do you think Itachi?" Naruto asked looking over at him.
Itachi sighed as his eyes focused on a tuft of pink where Sakura's body lay. He had left her in Kaminari's care, "I don't trust them. Sasuke's observations make them a hazard with the women. They can prove their innocence by becoming prisoners and submitting to interrogation once we reach Konoha. Until then I care not what happens to them."
Naruto nodded, "Alright, we'll take them with us but we will keep them with Tetsu." He turned to issue orders to the ANBU, "Bind them we're taking them home. Shizune nee-chan, knock them out."
"We're fucking innocent and still you want to arrest us?" the second demanded as he resisted futilely.
"You're not helping your case by struggling. And in case you haven't noticed almost every woman here is scared of you. Our mission was to bring the kunoichis back unharmed. There was nothing about the same treatment being extended to you…in fact, I distinctly remember the orders for males being exactly the opposite," Naruto glared at the man.
"I'll submit…" the fourth bowed then fell unconscious as a needle pierced his skin.
"I as well," the third intoned softly.
Naruto nodded then addressed the rest, "Make camp we'll stay here before returning to Konoha tomorrow."
It was early evening when the large group of shinobi walked up the large wide dirt expanse towards large green gates. A sense of peace and calmness settled over the group. Their journey was over and they were finally safe. Small shouts of glee from the children erupted from the center of the group. Many of them wanted to rush and run through the gates and see the big city they had only heard about in stories. But they were restrained by their elder but equally excited sisters.
As they neared the great gates Naruto spied both Izumo and Kotetsu standing in the doorway ready to greet them. He smiled at their gesture it was definitely a great way to make a first impression.
"Welcome home ninjas!" Izumo called, "And welcome you new immigrants to the best Hidden Village in the world, Konohagakure!"
"The Hokage is expecting all of you," Kotetsu announced before training his eyes on Itachi carrying a wrapped bundle with pink hair, "Except for you Itachi. She wants you and the medics to take Sakura-san straight to the hospital and get to work. She will be by after the debriefing."
Itachi nodded then sped off with Shizune and the Alpha Team hot on his heels.
Naruto watched them leave and wished he could accompany them. But he had a duty to see to first then he would visit his teammate.
"ANBU take your prisoners to Intelligence then come back to debrief. Everyone else with me! This place is big so stick close so you don't get lost!" he hollered then led the long processional through the village.
Many Haruno eyes were scanning their surroundings excitedly. This place was beautiful; the setting sun cast the village in a sepia hue making the reds, greens, and blues stand out handsomely. It was still early evening and with the size of their group many of the citizens paused what they were doing to take in the view. They spied many shinobi from their village namely the Konoha Twelve and several Uchihas were surrounding a large group of women and children. They were obviously foreign as many of them were talking in excited whispers and pointing at various buildings. Their colorings were very strange but none-the-less intriguing since almost every women looked different in their own way.
Shisui spied the Uchiha Police Force staring at them from above and he motioned for one to come down.
"Go tell Fugaku and Mikoto-sama of our arrival. And let them know Itachi and Sasuke will most likely be at the hospital."
The man bowed and left for the Compound. The rebuilt Hokage Tower came into view with a large flag waving above it. It was dark red in color with a beautiful golden Leaf symbol and it waved easily in the light breeze; a lasting symbol of their majestic village.
"Naruto-san! The Hokage will meet you in the large conference room," Raido called from the Hokage's balcony.
"Hai! Tell baa-chan to put that sake bottle down and hurry these ladies are tired!" he yelled back with a cheeky smile.
Raido kept his grin but everyone could tell it was slightly forced after that last statement. Naruto smiled knowingly at him…he guessed that Tsunade baa-chan heard him but she wouldn't do anything violent in from of the women. Striding toward the entrance Naruto put his arms up behind his head unable to wipe the large smile off his face.
"You know you're going to hear about that later right?" Sasuke said walking up to him.
Naruto chuckled, "As long as I'm not alone I'm right as rain."
Sasuke smirked in response, Naruto did like to flirt with near death experiences mostly on accident but now-a-days it was on purpose.
The Hokage had obviously been prepared for their impending arrival. As soon as Itachi and the medics arrived at the hospital they were directed to a room on the third floor that had been reserved for Sakura. Not wanting to wait for an elevator they all sprinted up the stairs and breezed easily into the waiting room.
"Moegi go get an IV drip we need to get her as hydrated as possible," Shizune instructed, "TingTing undo the wrappings. Reiko you and I will get to work immediately. Check for any abnormalities or declines in organ function once the sealed wrappings are removed.
"Hai," the girls called as they set about their tasks. Moegi left the room immediately and disappeared for the next few minutes. TingTing counted down from three and in an instant the travel stained wrappings were cleared. Reiko and Shizune instantly began their work, their hands glowed a bright green as they assessed the state of Sakura's weak body.
Itachi stood off to the side and wanted to break something. Once TingTing had removed the wrappings he could see the effects of her one month torment. Her skin was sunken lining her rib cage for the world to see. Her legs seemed shriveled and were unnaturally thin from disuse. Her arms were a similar story and from his observations he guessed he would be able to easily hook his middle finger and thumb around her wrist knuckle to knuckle. Her face was last and the stark contrast was so obvious it almost pained him. He could see why the medics insisted on keeping her wrapped. Dark shadows ringed her eyes and her cheeks were abnormally thin the lining of her delicate cheekbones visible beneath the skin. Kami…she just looked…
No he can't finish that thought. She's here in Konoha surrounded by friends, family, and him. Nobody was taking her away again. He would be posting guards for 24 hour surveillance until she was checked out of the hospital. She wasn't going to be left alone for one second. Any person, male or female, that came within one hundred feet of her with ill intent would be killed on sight, no questions asked.
Moegi entered the room rolling a long metal pole with a large IV drip hanging from the top. Shizune scooted a little to the left to make room for her. The orange haired girl untangled the tubing and slowly inserted the needle into her master's arm. Turning back to the tube she flipped a small plastic switch and the liquid began to fall. The monitors were next Moegi attached a large clip to the left pointer finger keeping the IV tube away from the other chords. Two switches were clicked and the machines buzzed to life. Then the heart monitor started, its steady rhythmic pings echoing in the silent room.
"Vitals?" Moegi asked softly while attaching the blood pressure wrap.
"Stable and steady, I can feel the drip beginning its effects," Reiko replied with a small smile.
"Blood pressure?" TingTing asked.
"110/73," Moegi replied ripping the Velcro off.
TingTing continued to notate Sakura's condition on the clipboard at the base of the bed. She was being as descriptive and as legible as possible knowing that the Hokage was going to be checking this report when she came in. She included a report on the back detailing the operations done in the field and the checkups on the journey home. Once she was finished she hooked the clipboard to the foot of the bed and looked up with weary eyes. Moegi had dressed her in a typical blue hospital gown and Sakura was hooked up to a variety of machines detailing everything about her body and its functions.
"She's stable," Shizune whispered removing her hands from Sakura's body.
Itachi sighed in irritation…he really was sick of hearing that word, "Is that all she is?"
The four girls all looked up at him with shocked and crestfallen faces. He had his head bowed and his finger pinched to the bridge of his nose. His perfect façade that he had managed to keep during the journey was slipping.
Shizune walked up to him running a tired hand through her hair, "Itachi-san, I know that with everything we've done it doesn't seem like enough but allow me to explain. The main reason now for Sakura's current state is because of severe malnutrition, dehydration, and blood loss. All of her internal injuries are fixed. When she wakes up she will be extremely fatigued as her body heals itself."
"Then help her," he said in a harsh whisper.
"We can't Itachi-san," she replied not taking his harsh tone personally. His pain and irritation went far beyond her or the medics and was really aimed at the monster responsible. They just happened to be here in this rare moment of weakness. "If we were to stimulate growth and chakra production in her current state then her body would go into shock throwing all of our hard work out the window. It's best to feed her through the IV Moegi set up and let Sakura's body heal at its own pace. One month under the stress it was subjected too is a lot for anybody. As long as her vitals don't fail then she will recover. The machines around her will notify us the instant something happens. I promise you Itachi I won't let her die."
He looked up then focusing on the short haired brunette in front of him. He knew Sakura was like a sister to Shizune and he knew he could trust her with her promise, "I apologize for my tone Shizune-san."
She smiled then, "No harm done. We will leave now and await the Hokage outside."
Itachi nodded standing still as the four women left the room pulling the door closed behind them. He stood there eyes trained on Sakura's still body, listening to the beeping monitors. When would she wake? Would she be happy to see him? Would she cry, would she smile, or would she shy away from him? Waiting…patience…this was definitely testing his limits. But there was nothing he could do…again. This couldn't continue, this infernal weakness, this…need to feel useful. He refused to be put in such a position again. No…once she was awake she would be kept safe within the Compound under the position of his fiancé.
He paused then, a small smile creeping onto his lips, What would she think of that? He hadn't officially asked her but he did make the promise. Walking up to her bedside Itachi pulled the nearby chair around and sat to her right. He lifted her right hand and held it. So small…so delicate…so fragile. He nodded internally while pressing his thin lips to her hand. While she lay here sleeping and healing he would make sure no harm came to her. If he couldn't be here by her bedside then one of his clansmen or her teammates would be.
She felt light…listless…like the weight of her pained body no longer existed. It was the greatest feeling ever. After weeks of never ending torment, to finally be at peace, happy, and content was such a relieving feeling. This weightless-ness, this freedom, she didn't want to give it up.
As she came to more of her senses Sakura realized that her weightless feeling came with a price…she couldn't move.
Well now that just blows…she mumbled to herself. Oh well it doesn't hurt I'm just to enjoy this while I can.
Taking a deep breath Sakura settled back into stupor and faded again into darkness.
Drip.
Seriously…
.
.
.
Drip.
You have GOT to be kidding me…
.
.
.
Drip.
Ok someone has a really screwed up sense of humor. I'm trying to sleep…
Sakura was slowly roused from her slumber only this time she could move.
Drip.
She listened to the infernal dripping trying to locate the source. Tetsu really did have a wicked sense of humor if his new form of torment meant driving her absolutely crazy.
Drip.
Oh that bastard is sooooooooo going to pay for this. He says he wants me to recover but does he really even let me. Noooooooo, that damn bastard just wants me just weak enough so he can toy with me as he pleases. Oh! I can't wait until Konoha comes and sets that damn monster in his place! Then once I'm completely recovered I can beat his ass into next century!
Drip.
ENOUGH WITH THE DRIPPING!
Slosh.
Wait…was that water?
Forcing her eyes open Sakura blinked a couple of times before her iris's adjusted. Dark brown vaulted ceilings came into focus.
Brown…again…someone must really REALLY hate me.
She continued her visual assessment and turned her head to the side only to be met with water. Focusing a bit more she waited…sitting still.
Drip.
There, she must have been lying in water which was why the drip sounded slightly muted. But then again…why was she in water in the first place? Turning her face back forward Sakura slowly tested the rest of her limbs. Toes were wiggling as were her fingers, legs were responding and so were her arms. With her extremities in seemingly decent condition Sakura decided to slowly sit up. Focusing some chakra into her hands she pushed against water and lifted herself up. Dizziness set in almost instantly and Sakura braced her head with one hand and groaned.
Oh dear Kami…please don't let me barf.
Taking deep and even breaths Sakura's dizzy spell ended and her world came back into focus. Immediately she scanned her surroundings. Directly in front of her tall golden doors were open leading to a hallway. And to her left she was a little surprised to see the silver form of her Inner lying next to her, face down in the water. Reaching out with a shaky hand Sakura touched the corporeal shoulder and began to shake.
"Inner," she whispered, "Inner…Inner!"
A silver hand groggily lifted and pushed Sakura's pale skinned one off the shoulder. The water muffled what the pink haired woman was sure to be a groan as her Inner righted herself.
"Holy shit…" her Inner groaned while coughing up water, "What am I doing in a giant puddle of water?"
"I don't know, I woke up in it too," Sakura answered, "But what I really want to know is why am I in here, with you, in a giant puddle of water?"
"Hell if I know," her Inner answered wringing the water out of her hair, "I've never been in this room before?"
"What do you mean?"
Inner cocked an eyebrow at her, "This is your bloody mind…why else would I be here talking to you right now."
"Oh…true…"
"But like I said, I haven't been here before. Did you just create this?"
Sakura shrugged, "I don't know…if I did it wasn't on purpose."
A low resounding groan shook the room sending small ripples through the water the women were seated on. The low tone echoed through their bodies vibrating deep within their bones. Both women paused as the room stilled once more before looking at each other, emerald and obsidian eyes wide.
They turned together and were met with a tall red cage. And behind this cage was the Gobi…except it had a forsaken look about it. Large teal eyes blinked slowly before staring out unseeingly. He groaned again the five horns crowning his head swayed has it shook his head back and forth. But what really shocked both women were the numerous cuts that stained his pure white body. He was bleeding and his blood soaked into the water beneath him.
"Oh Kami…" Sakura whispered.
"What happened?" Inner echoed.
Both women stood slowly standing on the top of the water. Taking a deep breath together they strode towards the large red gates.
"Hello," Sakura called out tentatively, "Gobi?"
Large teal eyes with half-moon red circles under them shifted to look at her then back to nothing again.
"Ar-are you alright?" she asked feeling a little stupid.
Gobi's eyes met hers and she could see the same accusation in his large eyes.
"Way to make a first impression," Inner chided folding her arms.
"I'm sorry for asking a stupid question but I just couldn't help myself," Sakura defended.
"Yeah that much is obvious."
The Gobi growled and silenced their bickering in a low bass voice, "If you wish to argue over in consequential matters do so out of my presence."
"Sorry," they both apologized; one was repented while the other scoffed.
"Leave me in peace," the large bijuu closed his eyes taking a deep shuddering breath.
Sakura looked at her Inner sharing a knowing glance, "If you wouldn't mind I'd like to heal your wounds."
"Be gone," Gobi intoned not opening his eyes.
"Good luck trying to make us leave, it's not in our personality," Inner sighed and leaned against the cage.
This struck the Gobi's interest as he cracked an eye and studied the two women. They…essentially…looked the same but during his time spent inside of Han he had seen plenty of twins. These women looked like twins but they didn't seem completely…
"Who are you?" Gobi asked staring at them listlessly.
Sakura smiled, glad that he was willing to talk. Perhaps after this conversation the Gobi would be more willing to let her heal him, "My name is Haruno Sakura. I'm a kunoichi of Konohagakure and apprentice to the current Hokage Senju Tsunade-sama. I'm a Jonin medic nin," she paused for a moment, "Do you have a name?"
The Gobi remained silent, watching, studying, assessing.
Inner sighed and pushed off the wall, "Just ask will you. No we're not twins. Yes you really are seeing both of us. And yes we are technically the same people I'm just her inner personality. You can call me Sakura but I prefer Inner considering she still goes by Sakura while inside her own mind."
Gobi's eyes widen marginally at the explanation, "You said you are the same person…how?"
"It's my bloodline," Sakura replied walking closer. Judging by the harsh wounds on his body Sakura figured he wasn't going to get up and try to harm her, "The Haruno bloodline allows me to separate my chakra between my physical self and my spiritual self. This separation allows me to have perfect chakra control."
Gobi huffed, "Explains why I'm in here."
"But…you were going to be sealed into another person anyway? You had to see this coming?" Inner asked.
The Gobi's eyes widened in fury and he leapt to his feet, his five tails waving furiously behind him, "Do not presume that I wished for this to happen!" he roared forcing both Sakura's to leave the cage in fear of their safety, "I was promised safety and I was promised care! But here I am sealed against my will in the most vile and perverted way possible. Now get out of my sight and let me live out this prison in peace!"
Suddenly drained of energy the Gobi fell into the water creating a large tidal wave pushing both Sakura's to the door. They gripped each other willing their bodies not to get blown out of the door. Once the tide settled Sakura approached carefully treading over the blood tainted water. Her eyes filled with sadness and pity taking in the great bijuu before her. He had been reduced to nothing more than a helpless beat up creature. This was very wrong. What the hell had Tetsu done?
"Please let me heal you," Sakura pleaded.
"Leave, I will not ask you again," he moaned as more blood leaked out of his wounds.
"No, I will not," she answered firmly.
"Stupid human, you are all the same," he grumbled to himself.
"But just let me help!"
"Be gone!" he moaned, "You begging and intentions are worthless."
Sakura scoffed as her Inner walked up beside her, "I'm not giving up just because you want me to. I will help you! As a medic it's my duty to care for those who are injured and ailing."
Gobi laughed but even Sakura could tell there was no humor behind it, "Humans…all you see are weapons. You see power. That's all we are to you, and all we ever will be. Why do you think our fate was to be sealed again? Why do you think that only one person from each nation is allowed to 'own' one of us? Che…you know nothing."
Sakura bristled, how the hell does he know that…but it was her Inner who answered, "I know what you say it true. I know that for most of your life and beyond that was all people have seen in you and in the other bijuu. But guess what grumpy, I'm different. This world is different! The war, Naruto changed it! People aren't the same!"
"I've heard that before," he moaned as his large body switched position, "Don't worry Gobi, things will be different, I have people who support me, I'm important to my nation, and my personal favorite…people have changed," he snorted in mock amusement, "Based on my condition now people have changed, they've become more cruel, more vindictive, and have a greater lust for power. For bijuu power…"
Sakura and Inner shared a glance before Sakura took a step forward, "What exactly did he do?"
"Figure it out yourself, now you've tired me out enough. Leave…"
"But your wounds…"
"Will still be here tomorrow…and the next day…and the next…"
Sakura stepped back, overwhelmed by the intense grief radiating on the majestic creature. She didn't want to leave not when something…someone needed help. Luckily her Inner had more balls than she did at the moment.
"Well if you want to just sit here in your own filth and not accept any type of help then so be it. And if you don't want to believe us that world has actually changed this time around then fine! We're not going to waste our breath to convince you. So go ahead and wallow in your own self-pity. We're getting out of here and going back to our Itachi-san!"
The Gobi surprised both of them by laughing, "Itachi…as in Uchiha Itachi. Wielder of the Magenkyo Sharingan, the same Magenkyo that that bastard Madara and Tobi used to control us, my brethren and I. Uchihas…" he growled to himself, "They can't be trusted."
"My boyfriend is an Uchiha and one of my teammates is an Uchiha. I trust them with my life," Sakura defended.
"Naïve…Uchiha's are obsessed with power. Greed and pride fuel their hatred. They want, and will stop at nothing until they have the power that they seek."
"You are wrong," Sakura stated firmly, "If they wanted power so much then they would have assisted in Tobi's twisted plan and not fought against him! They fought to save you, to save Naruto, and to save the world! They are different now!"
"Things will never be different," he replied standing up once more and walking to the edge of the cage eyeing them from his great height, "Sooner or later everyone you know will slowly turn their back on you. They won't be able to see you as a person but as a jinchurikki. Your Uchihas that you are so fond of will seek to control me from inside of you. And you, being the naïve woman blinded by love as you are, won't even know it is happening. And once you do find out," he slammed his bloodied head on the bars for emphasis, "you're going to wish I had never been sealed inside of you. Soon you will become an outcast; driven from your village…you will be alone with no one to keep you company except for me. And trust me…after what's been done to me in here…you won't find any help from me."
Sakura took steady steps backward during his final rant. He was serious, and he was telling her everything that she feared. He said it with such certainty…like he knew it would happen…because it had happened before to countless other jinchurikkis.
"It'll be different," Sakura whispered, he Inner strangely silent also thinking the same thoughts, "I-it will…"
Gobi snorted, "Believe that while you can. You'll see…in time my words will come true."
"You're wrong," Inner whispered hoping and praying that his words were false…
"Run kunoichi…run before your friends turn on you," he whispered angry teal eyes staring her down until she turned the corner and disappeared out of the room.
It can't be true…Sakura thought while staring at her Inner's obsidian eyes, They won't do it…
I hope not…
Tears began streaming down her face as she began to fade…I don't know what to do…
…Neither do I.
Blackness engulfed her senses once more as her Inner disappeared and she fell into the dark abyss.
Heavy…tired…weak…I'm so tired of being weak.
Sakura slowly came to again. It seemed to be that was the only thing she'd been doing lately. Coming in and out of consciousness was becoming routine. Kami it was getting annoying.
Annoying…Sasuke-kun…Itachi… she lamented. How she wanted to see Itachi again, so badly. She missed him, missed his eyes, his smirk, missed his hands caressing her face and holding her tightly to his body. She just missed him being the silent, stoic, but proud man that he was. And she needed him now more than ever. If what the Gobi said was true he would leave her or just try to control her, own her…but he was lying right? He wouldn't actually…no he couldn't. He said he loved her and Itachi isn't a frivolous man, he says what he means and never beats around the bush. She had to believe him and the love he declared.
But now…why was it so hard?
Her depressing thoughts were interrupted by a high pitched beeping, pinging away at regular intervals.
She grumbled to herself, What, first the damn dripping and now this annoying beeping! I'm trying to sort through my thoughts and I just can't catch a fucking break!
The beeping increased in speed the same as her breathing as she opened her eyes. White lights pierced her eyes as she tried to fight off the brightness by blinking rapidly.
Wait bright light…no cave…beeping means I'm hooked up to monitors…which means I'm in a type of lab! No! No more! I won't be treated like a toy anymore!
She started her weak thrashing, her blurred eyes tried to yank out the needles in her arms but she just…couldn't…grab them. Damned stupid fingers!
"Whoa, stop right there Sakura-chan." Deft fingers easily pried her hand away from the needles in her arms, "Don't do that or Shizune-san will have your head."
"Stop it!" she spat weakly, "No more! I won't do this anymore! I'm not a damned toy!"
"Sakura-chan, look up at me please," the masculine voice prodded.
"No!" her weak struggle was tiring her out, but she couldn't stop. Just keep fighting back no matter what! "I will never stop! Kami help me I will never stop fighting!"
With her eyes closed she couldn't see the happy smirk on the man's face, "That's good to hear darling. Now will you do me the honor of looking at me? I'm not here to hurt you Sakura-sama."
"Liar."
He sighed, "Open those pretty green eyes and call me a liar one more time."
Sakura did just that and was about to call him more than a liar until she saw who it was, "Shisui…what the hell?"
He smirked, his onyx eyes amused, "That's not exactly the type of greeting I was hoping for but I guess I'll make an exception for you. How are you feeling?"
Sakura groaned slowly lifting her non-needled arms up so her hand could stroke her face, "You want the truth or the lie?" she groaned.
"Which ever suits you."
"Like shit…where am I?" she asked resting her arm back down, "Konoha?"
He nodded, "You've been back about a week."
"How long…for everything?" she asked looking over at him. She adjusted the oxygen tube attached to her nose, Kami these things are uncomfortable.
"A week and a half, it took us four days to reach Konoha and ever since you've been here at the hospital," he explained.
Sakura gave him a weak nod, "Where's Itachi?"
Shisui smiled a little at her, "One sec. Oi Aori, Aiko!" Two other Uchiha clan members came into the room, one through the open window and the other through her hospital door, "Aori inform Itachi-san and Hokage-sama that Sakura's awake. Aiko, go tell her team."
The two nodded and immediately disappeared, "Sorry it had to be me that you woke up to."
"Who else was here?"
"Everyone, we take guarding you in shifts. Itachi has two of our clansmen outside your room and then someone you know in the room with you. But at nights he stays here to watch over you. Couldn't you have waited until then to wake up instead of now? I'm sure I wasn't the pretty face you were looking for."
Sakura let out a breathy chuckle that instantly turned into tears. Even while she was out cold Itachi still cared enough to protect her. He made sure she was safe and secure and protected. He loved her…Kami why did she ever doubt him. He didn't leave her alone…she was never alone! But most importantly she was safe.
Shisui became slightly uncomfortable, he didn't really know how to deal with her tears and he knew he wasn't the right man for the job. But luckily he didn't have to wait long when Itachi appeared in a swirl of leaves.
"I'll leave you two," Shisui bowed and exited through the door.
Sakura felt the influx of chakra and turned towards it when her heart stopped. There he was looking as regal and handsome as she remembered.
"Itachi!" she exclaimed weakly. She lifted a weary hand beckoning him and he responded immediately.
Grabbing the chair that Shisui had previously occupied Itachi sat next to his beloved, gripping her extended hand and kissing it softly.
"You're finally awake," he whispered looking up at her.
"You saved me," she whispered her tears still streaming down her cheeks, "You brought me home."
Feeling her hand's slight tug Itachi leaned forward until his forehead touched hers. "Thank you," she whispered.
Itachi tilted her chin up gently and stared into her vibrant emerald eyes. Kami how he missed her and now that she was awake…he would finally be at peace. He could feel the presence of others congregating outside of Sakura's room but he knew Shisui would keep them at bay until they finished their reunion. So holding her chin softly in his grip Itachi placed a soft delicate kiss to her lips.
Sakura sighed in contentment. Yes she definitely missed him and his intoxicating kisses but, much her annoyance, he was treating her like a fragile doll. To hell with that. She didn't care if her body was weak she wanted a damned good kiss and she was going to get one.
"Don't you dare treat me like I'm about to break you bastard. If you want to bloody kiss me then kiss me!" she growled against his lips.
Itachi smirked, even in her weakened she was still bossy and demanding. Kami how he loved her, "As you wish my lady."
Sakura's hand weakly gripped the collar of his shirt and she got exactly what she asked for; one brilliantly, dizzying, and intoxicating kiss. This was definitely the best welcome home kiss she had ever received.
More of the reunion in the next chappy! Please Review! See that huge box at the bottom they made it super duper easy now ;)