Welcome everyone to chapter thirteen of my fan fic. Wow I can't believe I've been able to maintain this without missing a beat! I guess I should pat myself on the back! *pat**pat*

Alright so as you all know I don't own Naruto.

Thanks to last weeks reviewers:

Sipuli123, gravenimage, airnaruto, chi town cody, erikarden, bamaboy71 and temari-rulz.

Responces:

Sipuli123: Regarding who's stronger in my story, unfortunately I can't say as that would give away too much. Let's just say we get to see this answered in the next two chapters. In the actual manga at this point I'd put Naruto ahead of Sasuke by a hair.

Chi Town Cody: Hope you're still reading buddy. I will say that i tried to make the characters, emotions and goals to be as close to the cannon material as possible at first and then show the progression I think they would take. As a result Naruto's dedication to save Sasuke had to be placed in there for now. As for me showing Sakura's abuse, unfortunately I never saw it as abuse but as it is intended....as comedy and not to be taken seriously. I hope you can see it this way and look past it.

ErikArden: Well, what can I say except: I TRIED, O HOW I DID TRY!! But i just can't write using that format! If others start to complain I will have no choice but to switch over but until then I hope you stick with the story.

Now on to what you really came here for, the story, and remember as always I like reviews (good or bad) and the more detailed the better, thanks:

Naruto: Chronicles of the Seventh

Book One: Dissension

Chapter Thirteen: Sasuke's Conviction

"Are ya sure that that's everything that happened," Omoi asked as he paced the floor. "Of course it is, don't you believe me," Naruto answered defensively. Omoi turned and looked at Naruto. His expression seemed a mix of anger and sadness. Everyone had returned to Karibi's home in the mountain and was now sitting around trying to get a bearing on what had happened earlier in the day. The sun was setting and everyone felt tense and nervous.

"Ya know trust isn't an issue Naruto," Omoi responded. "But we need to make sure we've covered all the bases here. The fact is even though Uchiha Sasuke was in the village we have no proof of that outside of ya saying that ya saw him." "What about that girl who spoke to him at the front gate," Sakura asked. "She says she can't remember specifics about what they looked like," Samui responded. "All she can remember was that the guy she talked to was very handsome." Sakura looked confused, "I don't get it. How could she not know what he looked like?"

"It's the Sharingan," Naruto said as everyone looked at him. "I've spent the last few years researching everything I could find on it and one of the abilities of a Sharingan user is the ability to cloud the mind. Sasuke must have at some point used it on her. I don't think she'll be much help at all." Everyone seemed to grow even more dejected after hearing this.

"Well you've gotten into quite a mess haven't you idiot boy," said Killer Bee, "What do you plan to do now?" "I've already sent word to Danzo," Naruto said, "and I think we should return to Konoha." "But what about Sasuke," Sakura asked. "He did what he came to do," Naruto said, "He's probably well on his way out of the Lightning Country." "Well you need to locate him," Killer Bee said, "The only way to clear your name and Konoha now is to find Uchiha Sasuke."

"Don't worry," Naruto said, "I will bring Sasuke in." Naruto," Sakura said in surprise. But before she could continue Naruto cut her off. "Don't worry Sakura," he said, "I still don't plan to hand him over to Kumo or anyone else. Sasuke is Konoha's responsibility. Whatever punishment he deserves it will be Konoha that gives it to him." Killer Bee scoffed, "You honestly think that will be enough. My brother will not rest until he sees Uchiha Sasuke dead for what he's done. You can't protect Sasuke now."

Naruto sat back and considered Killer Bee's words. Despite everything he knew Killer Bee was right. Perhaps he could have convinced the Raikage and the other Kages to forgive Sasuke before, but now Sasuke had gone too far. And now, for the first time, Naruto feared that his friend was truly lost.

"Well," Killer Bee said, "There's nothing we can do about it now. My brother has every available man searching the country for ya and ya'll have to lay low. I know of a way to get out of the Lightning Country undetected but I'll have to check the route myself to make sure it's safe. I'll head out now and I should be back in the morning. So be ready to move when I return and until then just rest up. Samui ya'll be with me. Oomi, I want ya to head back to Kumo now, my brother will need ya."

Later that Evening

Killer Bee, Samui and Omoi had long since left and Karui tended to things within Killer Bee's home. Naruto had requested that everyone else speak with him here at the stream. The moon had long since risen and they had all eaten. Everyone knew that whatever Naruto wanted to say was of great importance and as he breathed deeply, preparing to say what was on his mind, no one spoke and everyone looked on intently.

"I'm sorry," Naruto said. "This mission has been a disaster. Every decision I've made has been wrong. And now my actions may have brought Konoha to the brink of war." Naruto's shoulders slumped, as if the weight of the world was on them and they would soon crumble. "Look," he said, "I want you guys to know that I'm proud of you all and no matter what happens I will take full responsibility with Danzo."

Sakura, who sitting right next to him, placed her hand on his. "No Naruto," you did nothing wrong, "Akatsuki was obviously aware that we were here. Sasuke was one step ahead of us and used us." "That's right neesan," Konohmaru said, "And if you think we'll let you take the blame for this you're wrong. We'll all stand beside you." "That's right," Sakura said, "If he wants to punish you he'll have to punish all of us." "No," Naruto protested, "I can deal with Danzo, but you guys will all be needed soon. I can't allow you to take the heat for this. Besides, what's the worst Danzo could do? Banish me again." Despite everything, Naruto's little joke couldn't help but bring a smile and a laugh to everyone's face.

"Excuse me," Sai said interrupting the brief joy, "But I think you are underestimating your situation here Naruto. Danzo is not just going to let this go as just another failed mission. He has lost face in the eyes of the Kages and as you've said this could start a war. He's going to look for someone to blame here and it will fall on your shoulders. Danzo won't think twice about sacrificing you to protect his position." "I know that," Naruto replied sadly, "which is why I don't want any of you involved. If a sacrifice has to be made it will be mine and mine alone." "But," Sakura said as she was interrupted. "No buts Sakura-chan," Naruto said, "I can handle this."

Later that night

Sasuke stood in the open field deep in the forest in Kumo. For a moment he closed his eyes and allowed the tranquility of the forest at night wash over him. He breathed in deep the crisp night air and listened intently to the chirping of birds and the crickets. Somewhere in the distance he heard the slow steady sound of a stream and hooting of an owl. Slowly, almost begrudgingly he opened his eyes and stared intently at the large mountain looming a short distance away. Behind him, his three companions stood awaiting his order. Without looking back he gave it, "You know what to do," he said.

Without so much as a word Suigetsu and Jugo leapt off into the inky night. Karin walked up to Sasuke and placed her hand on his cheek. Sasuke looked at her and noted the concern on her face but says nothing. Without a word Karin turned and leapt off to catch up to Jugo and Suigetsu. Sasuke looked on as Karin disappeared and then turned again and looked up at the mountain.

Do you hate me Naruto, he thinks. Do you curse my name? Do you, at last, understand my pain and my determination? Do you understand how far I am willing to go for justice? Hmph, of course you don't. Knowing you, I bet you still have hope for me yet. Well tonight, I will crush that hope as easily as I crushed our bond. Sasuke then did what he has done countless times, he looked within for that light, the power that is his chakra and with but a command no different than flexing a muscle he let it loose. Every ebb of his power rose to the surface and Sasuke merely stood and waited.

Kumogakure Mountains

It had been several hours since Naruto had spoken to his friends. He had listened to their protests and ideas but in the end he was determined to shoulder this failure alone. Now, he tried to rest. But his rest was anything but peaceful. Throughout the night, Naruto tossed and turned, he slept the sleep of the troubled, the sleep of the burdened. Suddenly, like a torch suddenly lit in the darkness, Naruto felt that familiar feeling.

Naruto rose out of his sleep instantly and sat up in his bed his sage chakra already activated. He shook his head as if to shake out the last effects of grogginess. Quickly he rose to his feet and walked over to the window. For a moment he stared outside at the stars and then looked over to his gear. He then made his way over to his things and quickly got dressed and fastened his equipment, including his scroll, to himself.

Preparing to leave Naruto stopped and looked over to Sakura who was still asleep. Naruto couldn't help but notice how beautiful she looked as the moonlight shone through the window and highlighted her radiant face. Naruto walked over to her and bent down and tenderly moved a strand of hair that was covering her face. Sakura, he thought, there has always been so much I wanted to tell you, So much I can't say. Even now I wish I had the courage. But years ago I made you promise that I intend to keep. Tonight, I don't know what's going to happen but even though I go alone I know I'm never alone. You are with me and if I don't return just know that I am always with you.

Naruto reached out to touch her cheek but paused and thought better of it knowing Sakura was a light sleeper and he could wake her. Rising to his feet Naruto quietly made his way to the front door and opened it, only to be startled to see Karui standing in his way.

"And where do ya think ya going this late Na-ru-to-kun," she purred questioningly. Naruto was initially caught off guard by her presence but quickly regained his composure. "I'm going for a walk," he said. Karui reached out and touched Naruto's waste seductively and slowly ran her fingers across his utility belt that stored his Kunai, smoke bombs and other weapons. "Ya pretty heavily armed for a leisurely stroll aren't ya," she said sarcastically.

Naruto stepped forward out of the doorway and closed the door behind him. Smiling he said, "Well, we are wanted criminals in this land. I wouldn't want to be caught unprepared." "Oh really," Karui said, "And you wouldn't happen to be heading down to the woods over to the east now would you?" Naruto looked away knowing his ruse was discovered. "Naruto" Karui said, "If this is what ya think ya must do then I won't stop ya but I wonder have ya thought this through."

"I know what I'm doing Karui," Naruto said. "Ya know he's not alone Naruto," Karui said. "What if it's a trap?" Naruto shook his head, "He wants this between us and he'll want no one else involved. Trust me." "I always trust ya Naruto-kun," Karui said as Naruto walked away, "It's him I have a problem with." As Naruto walked away, without looking back he responded, "Don't worry Karui, I know Sasuke." "Do ya really," Karui said. Naruto paused and seemed to consider her words. After a moment or two, without another word he ran off into the night.

Meanwhile

Sakura groggily woke up sure she had heard talking. She listened for any noises but heard nothing. I guess it was just a dream, she thought. Sakura turned over in her bed and tried to go back to sleep. Lazily, she opened her eyes and looked over at Naruto and for a while it had not registered that the bed was empty. Once again she closed her eyes and tried to back to sleep. It then suddenly dawned on her and she sat up.

Hmm, she thought, I wonder where he went. I guess he couldn't sleep and went to take a walk. O well. Sakura once again laid down and tried to back to sleep. A few moments later she opened her eyes and looked over to where Naruto's equipment was placed. Sakura instantly shot up out her bed and rose to her feet and ran over to Naruto's bed and looked around to make certain she was right.

In a panic she ran over to Sai and woke him frantically. "Sai," she said, "Sai wake up." Sai woke up and sat up. "Sakura-chan," he said, "What's going on?" "It's Naruto," she said, "He's gone. All his things are gone too." Sai was shocked and looked over to Naruto's bed. He then looked at Sakura with a concerned look. "Get dressed Sakura-chan," he said.

Ten minutes later Sakura and Sai emerged from the house. "Any idea where he went," Sai asked. Before Sakura could answer, Karui who had been sitting nearby answered. "My my," she said, "I figured you two would pop out sooner or later. Lose something?" Sakura looked at Karui and instantly felt like hitting her. "Naruto's missing Karui," she said, "Have you seen him?" Karui smiled, "Naruto-kun received an invitation from an old friend and decided to take him up on it." Sakura stood in absolute shock as she heard Karui's words. One of her greatest fears seemed to be coming to pass.

Meanwhile

Naruto had been running since he left Karui. He was deep in the woods now and drawing closer to the chakra signature he felt. His right arm, the one pierced by the sword, burned but he did his best to ignore the pain. Sakura had done a great job patching it up and the pain had become manageable. Naruto suddenly sensed three other smaller chakra signatures and slowed down. Cautiously he moved while he tried to locate the other enemies.

Out of the corner of his eye he saw someone leaning up against a tree. As he approached he could see it was a young shinobi with white hair and a large sword strapped to his back. "So you finally made it huh," Suigetsu said as he stood and faced Naruto. From the left and the right two other shinobi came into view, a female who dropped from an above tree and another tall male who appeared form behind some bushes. Pointing at them one by one Naruto said, "Karin, Suigetsu and Jugo."

Karin was somewhat surprised. "You know who we are," she asked. "I've studied you all for the past three years," Naruto replied. Suigetsu spit on the ground and grunted. "So," he said, "that supposed to impress me? Please, I don't find anything about you all that impressive." Suigetsu approached Naruto and slowly drew his sword. Naruto merely stood and watched him; he neither moved nor attempted to protect himself. "So how about it hotshot," Suigetsu said smiling, "You want to try and impress me?"

Karin screamed, "Suigetsu, you moron, this is not our mission!!" "I know what our mission is you dumb bitch," Suigetsu yelled, "I just wanted to get an up close and personal look at this beast." Suigetsu then leaned in closer and said, "I'll let you pass. But when you fight with Sasuke you're going to wish you stayed to fight me instead." Suigetsu smiled wickedly and then stepped to the side. Without a word Naruto once again broke out into a run and left the three shinobi behind.

Meanwhile

"Let me get this straight," Sakura said to Karui, "You knew where Naruto was going and you just let him go!? Why didn't you tell us or try to stop him or at least go with him to back him up!?" Karui, still seated, looked up at Sakura, "Because he wouldn't have listened to me if I told him not to go and he wouldn't have allowed anyone to go with him. Even a dumb bitch like you should know Naruto-kun wants to handle this alone." "This is not about what Naruto wants," Sakura replied, "He could be walking into a trap! He should have taken us with him!" Karui rose to her feet and got into Sakura's face. Smiling she said, "Naruto-kun can handle it. He can handle anything. I have faith in him. A lot more than you right now."

Sakura looked away and her face grew sad, "This isn't about having faith; it's about protecting Naruto. He's in danger and I have to help." "Oh really," Karui said, "So you think your dream guy Sasuke is capable of killing Naruto-kun?" "I," Sakura replied, "I don't know what Sasuke's capable of……not anymore." Sai then stepped forward and said, "Well, we need to find him. Karui what direction did he go?" "That's not necessary," Sakura said as she closed her eyes.

Thinking back she remembered her conversation with Naruto: "Naruto," she asked, "does that work both ways. I mean, you said that now, no matter where I am, you can tell if I'm in trouble. Can I now do the same thing?" Naruto thought about this for awhile. "You know," he said smiling, "I never thought about that before. I guess so." "Good," she said smiling, "So that means if you're ever in trouble. I'll find you."

Naruto, Sakura thinks, I hope this works. Concentrating hard, Sakura attempts to remember the feeling she felt that night. She focuses on Naruto, his power his chakra. For a moment she feels nothing and thinks that perhaps she can't locate him. Slowly she feels a warmth, the same warmth she felt that night. But this time it's not covering her entire body, this time it's coming from a direction. Sakura opens her eyes and too her amazement she see's a light blue trail of energy. "I found him," she screams, "Sai, let's go!" And as Sakura and Sai run off Karui looks on and a sudden realization dawns on her. You found him by sensing his chakra huh, she thinks. So Kirabi-sensei you taught Naruto-kun that technique and he used it for her.

Meanwhile

Sasuke stood with his eyes closed, listening, waiting and for a while it seemed as though he wasn't here. It felt that he was another place, another time, where he could be at peace. But he knew better, for in fact he was now standing at the brink of oblivion. Suddenly he is jarred from his peace by the rustle of leaves and slow heavy breathing. Sasuke opened his eyes and standing in front of him stood Naruto. "Glad you could make it, Naruto," Sasuke said.

Sasuke looks upon his old friend who immediately tenses up ready to fight. "Naruto," Sasuke says, "You know why I'm here. Before we get into a needless confrontation is there any way I can convince you to come with me." Naruto smiled, "Sorry Sasuke but I like my life and would like to keep it for a few more years."

"Tell me something Sasuke," Naruto said, "Before we begin this, tell me why. Why did you have to go this far Sasuke?!" Sasuke's face grew expressionless once again as he said, "The very fact that you have to ask me this question proves that you will never understand. So why bother trying to explain."

Naruto looked own at the ground and tried his best to fight the sadness he felt would swallow him whole. "You're right," he said, "There was a time that I thought I did understand. When I lost Jiraiya-sensei I thought that I did. But the truth is I don't. I don't and I never will! I can never understand how hate can turn someone so good into what you are!! But it doesn't matter, I promised to bring you home and I will!! I will bring you back to Konoha and there you will atone for your crimes and perhaps, one day, you'll understand how wrong you've been!

Sasuke closed his eyes and smiled. "Tell me Naruto," he said, "What if that doesn't happen? I have no intention of returning to Konoha alive. And what I fight for is in direct opposition of what you fight for. So tell me, in order to protect Konoha, how far are you willing to go?"

"Whatever it takes Sasuke," Naruto responded. "I will do whatever it takes to protect those who are precious to me." Sasuke then opened his eyes and Naruto could see great intensity and focus. "Are you willing to kill me," Sasuke asked. The question had taken Naruto off guard and he found himself unable to answer. Sasuke then said, "You can choose to protect Konoha and sacrifice me, one of your precious people. Or you fight and kill me to save Konoha. Which will you choose?"

Naruto clenched his fist he wanted to answer, he wanted to scream, but in the end the words couldn't come. Sasuke slowly moved his hand to the hilt of his sword and slowly unsheathed it. "You know Naruto," he said, "The difference between you and I and the reason despite all your strength that you can't beat me is because…"

Sasuke then moved at Naruto with blinding speed leaving Naruto without a moment to react. Within a second Sasuke had closed the gap between them and buried his sword deep into Naruto's chest. "The reason you can't beat me," Sasuke said to a stunned Naruto, "Is because you lack conviction."

End of Chapter Thirteen