INTRODUCTION
Welcome bak to the Chronicles of the Seventh. As always I like to begin by stating that I do not own Naruto.
THANK YOU
I'd like to thank everyone who reviewed my previous chapter: maliousdei; The Flying Lion; EmpKaylenatye; Gravenimage; xDARKNESS; airnaruto; Kushina's Truth of Hell; Diamond Man; Sevinsin; Komljenovic; Sasuke K; holydemon90; MyHikari; Pinulu; Greeod03114 & ZeroTail29.
RESPONCES:
maliousdei - I'm glad that Sakura's reaction didn't rub you the wrong way. And I really wanted everything that Naruto has gone through in previous chapters highlight the final transformation into a leader.
The Flying Lion - LoL! Yes, Konan does have some...advantages doesn't she? LoL! I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter.
EmpKaylenatye - Well, if you liked the brief NS moment you'll love this chapter. ;) And yes, not much happened, but tons happened! Exactly what I'm going for in chapters such as that one.
Gravenimage - Thank you for praise. Coming from an accomplished fanfic author means alot. And sticking to the core canon for charactization is very important for me.
xDARKNESS - The action is coming my friend. More action than you can imagine. Bland? Well, considering he didn't arrive just in time to fight I guess it wasn't as epic but you'll soon understand why I didn't go for a last minute return. Besides don't you think that's a little played out. Especially in Naruto. And Happy Holidays (belated) to you too.
airnaruto45 - Wut? LMAO! I love how you just put anything and consider that a review. Oh, well. It still counts I guess.
Kushina's - Ahhh! You caught me? How disappointing. Oh well, you can't surprise them all I guess. So you liked the beginning of the chapter? So does that mean you didn't like the end? LoL!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY KUSHINA-CHAN!
Diamond Man - Sigh, I hope I can pull off this final war. I have a bunch of crazy ideas and I just hope I can translate it well. But I appreciate the confidence you have in me. Hope you had a Happy Holidays.
Sevensin - The break was much needed, trust me. And I feel completely recharged and ready to go! Hope you had a great holidays as well!
Komljenovic - Sometimes I will drag things out a bit. But not too much that it gets annoying I hope.
Sasuke K - LoL! Maybe just a little. :D
holydemon90 - Glad you enjoyed the chapter! Makes me feel good that you did.
MyHikari - Wut! My precious Ino with that mutt! No way! LoL! But I respect your preferance. But I hope I at least helped you to see how a NejIno pairing could work. No, this war is going to get ugly, and not everyone is going to survive it. (hint!)
Pinulu - DUDE! You finished basic! Congrats Private! I'm sure they kicked your ass good but your a better man now than when you went in! And I'm happy to see that despite it all you never forgot to come back and catch up on this story. I salute you!
Greedo3114 - Considering the fact that Madara is the main villain I wanted to expand on his reasoning for what he's doing. I plan to cover it a bit more as I go on so hopefully he will remain interesting throughout.
The Raikage, during his fight with Sasuke, was facing the man who he believed kidnapped his brother. While against the Tsuhikage he was merely fighting an enemy. So there is a reason why he was so animated against Sasuke yet calmer against Onoki. Perhaps that's the best reason I can give for the differences in thier attitude.
Well, I try not to get bogged down by being overly technical or descriptive. Most of all I want the story to flow freely allowing you to imagine and fill in the blanks where you see fit. As for Sakura, her "bouncing" is something I'm doing purposfully. I believe that Kishi created Sakura to be the "normal" person in the midst of the other two fantastical characters. she is affected by the chaos around her and I just wanted to continue this thread and to show that, like many people, all this craziness would affect you emotionally and cause a constant shifting of emotions.
ZeroTail29 - Glad you liked the chapter and what I did with the Divisions. Hope you continue to enjoy Naru...I mean Zerotail. Lol!
MESSAGE FROM THE AUTHOR
Ok, so as promised I have returned from my vacation with a new chapter! I hope you all enjoyed the holidays and are excited about the new year! New Year, New opportunities, less bull shit! that's my motto! Anyway, here is chapter 22. Enjoy and please remember to leave a little review when done. And just because you guys have been so patient I reward you with an extra long chapter! Yay!
Naruto: Chronicles of the Seventh
Book III: End of Innocence
Chapter XXII: Konoha's Shield and the Will of Fire
******Konoha Cemetery – Late Night******
"Here lies Rock Lee.
The Green Dragon of Konoha."
Naruto stood motionless reading the words on the headstone over and over. If anyone had asked him how long he'd been standing there he wouldn't be able to answer. For him time seemed to have stopped the moment he entered the cemetery.
His eyes were reddened from fallen tears and both his fists were clenched so tight his fingers hurt. Too many times Naruto had been forced to come to this place to mourn the loss of someone close to him. From the Third Hokage all the way to Rock Lee, Naruto was forced to feel the helplessness of loss and the frustration of failure time and again.
Every time he stood here he wondered if there was something he could have done differently. Something he didn't see or notice that could have prevented this. But in the end the answer never comes. Because there is none. Because no answer can reverse time. No answer can breathe life into the lifeless. In the end, no answer is ever good enough.
"You really should put on a jacket Naruto," Tsunade said as she walked up to Naruto. Iruka was with her and they both could see the pain in his eyes. "It's a bit chilly out here."
"This has to stop," Naruto said. "I'm tired of having to come here. I'm tired of having to say good bye. We have to put an end to Akatsuki. All of it. It has to end. They have caused too much pain."
"Naruto," Iruka said. "You mustn't blame yourself…."
"No Iruka-sensei," Naruto said as he interrupted Iruka. "I don't blame myself. Not anymore. I remember what you said to me and you were right. Akatsuki is to blame. Madara is to blame. The hate Madara represents is what caused this. Lee…he chose to stand against that hate. For me….for all of us. He died to protect all of us and I…..I'm….I'm proud of him."
Iruka and Tsunade couldn't help but slime at Naruto. You really have grown up Naruto, Iruka thought. You've really become a man.
"Iruka," Tsunade said. "Do you mind if I talk to Naruto alone?"
"Of course not Lady Fifth," Iruka said. "I should return to help with the preparations. Naruto, we'll talk some other time ok?"
"You got it," Naruto said with a smile. After Iruka walked away Tsunade walked up and hugged Naruto tightly. The move caught Naruto off guard at first before he finally hugged back.
"You really know how to make people worry about you boy," Tsunade said as she let go. "Come Naruto, walk me home."
Naruto and Tsunade walked through the cemetery in silence. Naruto could hear the sounds of crickets and bugs as they went about their business in the darkness. A few fire flies were flying about.
Eventually they walked out of the cemetery and back into the village where every street was silent. The homes were all boarded up and not a soul could be seen or heard. As soon as the first meeting was completed this afternoon Danzo had ordered every citizen capable of fighting to the main barracks for training while those men too old, sick or injured, along with the women and young children to be sent to the shelter in the Hokage Mountain leaving the village a ghost town.
As they walked down the streets the only noise that accompanied them was the sound of their own footsteps and the wind. "This is depressing," Naruto said.
"War always is," Tsunade responded. "It's always a sad thing to see such a lively place turned into something like this."
"No, not that," Naruto said. "It's the people. My friends and the other ninja. The citizens. They're all….scared. I know this won't be easy. But I've never seen them like this before. It's like they've all forgotten who they are and what we stand for. I never dreamed that that I would see cowardice in their eyes. It's….disappointing."
Tsunade suddenly stopped in her tracks causing Naruto to stop. Before he could ask what's wrong she punched him in his head. "Ahh," Naruto yelled as he rubbed his bruised head. "What was that for!"
"That was for being an idiot and having no respect for war," Tsunade said before continuing to walk. "Naruto, what we are about to face will be unlike anything the people of this village has ever faced in their lifetime. "
"We've all been in fights before Granny," Naruto said.
"That's just it Naruto," Tsunade said. "This isn't just some fight! We're facing an enemy that out numbers us and want nothing but our destruction. And it scares them Naruto. It terrifies us all."
"Hmpf," Naruto said. "I've been doing nothing but fighting for years! I spent three years hunting and being hunted by Akatsuki!"
"But they haven't Naruto," Tsunade yelled. Both Naruto and Tsunade walked on in silence for a few moments she tried to calm herself. "Naruto, is it still your dream to become Hokage?"
Naruto looked at Tsunade for a moment and then said, "Yes. At least I think it is. I always saw becoming Hokage as the way I could attain the recognition of the village. But lately, I've realized it's more. I've been learning that that being Kage comes with as many negatives as positives. I had recently talked to Gaara. And even though I could see that he was happy to be the Kazekage I could see the burden it placed on him. And to be honest, I'm not sure if I can handle it."
"Hmm, I see," Tsunade said as she and Naruto came up the path leading to her home. "Then you really are ready."
"I am," Naruto asked. "I don't get it. I just told you I'm scared to death of ever becoming Hokage."
"I know," Tsunade said. "And that is what will make you a good leader, because you realize and respect the burden it will place on you." Tsunade laughed lightly then said, "You know I always wondered how good of a choice it was to make Gaara the Kazekage. But now I know it was the right choice. He really taught you something didn't he?"
"Maybe," Naruto said. "But it still doesn't change the fact that everyone here is so full of fear. To see them turning on each other like that. It was a disgrace."
Naruto and Tsunade walked up to the gate to Tsunade's property and Naruto opened the door for her. As they passed through the gate Tsunade sighed and said, "Naruto, for you becoming Hokage has always been about being able to protect everyone. But I don't think you fully comprehend it. To be Hokage is to be a shield for the people, not just a blade."
"What do you mean Granny," Naruto asked as they continued up the path.
"Protecting the people is not just about protecting them from all physical threats,' Tsunade said. "Because you can't. Not really. Such a task is impossible for one man. Sometimes the best way to protect the people is to give them the strength to protect themselves. To do so you must protect them from their own fear. Inspire them to greatness. That is what it means to be Hokage."
Naruto and Tsunade came up to her door and Naruto opened for her and allowed her to pass in. Inside there was already a fire going in the fireplace and the home was warm and well lit. "Come with me Naruto," Tsunade said as she walked into the living room where he saw the metal box, his father's gift to him, sitting on low table in the center of the room.
"Granny Tsunade," Naruto said. "I know what you're trying to say but…..I've never been good at giving inspirational speeches and crap like that. I'm more of a man of action kind of guy."
Tsunade laughed and said, "Yes, you are an idiot who acts before he thinks alright. The way things worked out it's almost as if Minato knew you would be. I think that's why he left this for you."
Tsunade then sat in front of the box and opened it and looked in its contents as Naruto stood behind her. "Naruto, when I first gave this to you all you took from it was the scroll. Most likely because you believed that only the scroll had any practical use. Am I right?"
"Well, of course Granny," Naruto said. "I mean the scroll had the jutsu instructions and a letter to me. Everything else is just heirlooms."
Tsunade shook her head slightly and said, "No, this is not just an heirloom." Tsunade then reached into the box, removed an item and stood up. She faced Naruto and allowed him to see it. "This was a symbol of your father. He was a shield to the people and he wore this so that all who saw him, friend or foe, would know it. He left this for you in the hope that you too would become a shield."
Naruto gently took the item in his hands and opened it out so he could see the whole thing. As he inspected it, Tsunade walked around him. "The time has come Naruto, to truly become the man your parents wanted you to be. The man this village needs," Tsunade said.
Naruto smiled when he saw what she meant. "The man this village needs," he whispered. Naruto stared at the words and could feel the tears welling in his eyes. Be a shield for the people, he thought. With a smile and a look of determination Naruto yelled, "Yeah, Granny Tsunade! I can do that!"
******The Next Day – Office of the Hokage - Just before Noon******
Danzo and the other elders were in the meeting room reviewing the preparations for the war. "Are your men ready Shikaku," Danzo asked.
"As ready as we can get," Shikaku said. "The ninja are doing everything they can to prepare the citizens who volunteered to help in the fight. But they are woefully under prepared. I'm not sure how well they'll do."
"Well, they don't have much of a choice do they," Danzo said impatiently. "Our ninja alone aren't capable of fighting this war alone. If the citizens of Konoha want to maintain their freedom they will have to fight for it. It's as simple as that."
Danzo then looked to Sakura who was still poring over her documents. "And how about the preparations in the medical division?"
Sakura looked up too see all eyes trained on her. Looking at all of the age and experience surrounding her she couldn't help but wonder what the hell she was doing here in this room. "I…I...ahh," she stuttered. Sakura then looked over at Tsunade who smiled warmly. Sakura suddenly felt herself relax and she said, "Things could be better. We are understaffed and lack enough equipment. I created a new and improved formula for my soldier pills and I have some of the staff creating them in mass quantities now. But we could really use more people."
"That sounds more like excuses rather than results," Danzo said. "Perhaps I need to clarify the situation. Personally I don't think it is necessary to have a medical division. I think it would best to have the medical ninja's intergraded with the other divisions. However, Tsunade insisted that having a separate division would be necessary so I chose to follow that advice despite the fact that Tsunade chose to have her apprentice lead that division instead of herself."
"Sakura has learned everything I have to teach," Tsunade said defiantly. "She has as much knowledge at this point as I do. Besides, this job will require someone young and strong to handle things."
"So you've said," Danzo responded. "Never the less, we are short on men and equipment and I will not send anymore to help heal troops when they should be fighting."
"With more men we can heal the injured faster and get them back in the field," Sakura responded. Danzo remained silent and glared at her and she quickly realized this was not a fight she was going to win. "Fine," she said. "Then I have another idea. Instead of keeping the entire division in Konoha we should split it in half and send half out to make a temporary camp out in the battle field."
"Why would you want to do that," Danzo asked.
"Some of our men may be too injured to make it all the way back to Konoha," Sakura replied. "If we have a temporary unit stationed closer we could save more lives."
"They'd also be closer to the battle and in greater danger," Tsunade said.
"It's a risk we'll have to take," Sakura said.
"Fine," Danzo replied. "Make the preparations and the unit will move out with the rest of the troops. But do you have any plans for who will lead the section that will be sent out in the field?"
"I will," Sakura responded without hesitation.
"Sakura," Tsunade exclaimed as she prepared to protest the decision.
"I have to be the one to go," Sakura said. "Things could get bad out there and we may need someone to think on their feet. I'll go and I can leave Ino in the village to run things here."
"You'd be taking quite a risk," Iruka said. "Are you sure?"
Sakura nodded leaving everyone in the room silent.
"Very well," Danzo said. "I'll leave you to make the necessary preparations." Danzo then looked across the table to the one empty chair. He didn't hide his anger at the fact that Naruto was not there. "And just where is Namikaze," he asked.
As if on cue, the wooden double doors swung open and Naruto stood at the entrance. Everyone turned to look at him and everyone's eyes grew wide. Some of them, Danzo included, were slack jawed as Naruto confidently strode into the room and walked around the desk towards his seat.
"Is that," Sakura whispered as she stared at Naruto who was wearing a familiar long white coat with short sleeves and flame-like motifs at the edges. At first she couldn't believe it and thought perhaps she had made a mistake. But as he passed by she could see the words written on the back and she knew she was not mistaken. On the back was written the words: Yondaime Hokage.
"Sorry I'm late everyone," Naruto said with a smile. He couldn't help but feel exhilarated by the reaction of the room. Everyone stared in awe and confusion. It was no longer a secret that Naruto was the son of the Fourth. Hell they had started calling him Namikaze. But for him to wear the Fourths' jacket to a meeting with Danzo?
"I was busy taking care of some business," Naruto said with a smile as he sat down.
"And what could be so busy that you would be late for this meeting," Homura asked impatiently.
"Ichiraku ramen," Naruto said that shocked everyone in the room. Except for Sakura and Tsunade who didn't seemed too surprised at all. "I wanted to have some before Ayame was evacuated. And I just made it too. I was able to convince her to give me some and it was delic…"
"Enough," Danzo yelled as he got to his feet. "We are in the middle of planning for a battle for the fate of the village not to mention your own. How dare you arrive late with such a stupid excuse?"
"Stupid," Naruto asked. "Have you ever tasted her ramen? That stuff is not stupid. Besides, me starving to death can't be good for winning this war can it?"
Sakura, Tsunade and Iruka couldn't help but giggle a bit at Naruto's response which seemed to anger Danzo further. "And that coat," he asked. "Who gave you permission to wear it?"
"My father did when he decided to leave for me," Naruto responded angrily.
"And for what purpose are you wearing that here," Danzo asked.
"That is none of your business," Naruto answered.
"Everything you do is my business," Danzo said.
Naruto rose to his feet and glared at Danzo and said, "I don't think so Danzo. I don't care if you don't like my taste in clothes. If you want me to take this jacket off then come over here and do it yourself."
"Alright," Tsunade said as she tugged at Naruto's sleeve. "Let's put an end to this pissing contest. We have more important things to do now. Naruto sit down. You too Danzo."
Eventually both men returned to their seats and the meeting continued and after several more hours everyone left the room and went off to make their final preparations. It had been decided that all units move out at dawn tomorrow so there was little time.
Naruto stepped out of the building into the chill night air. He looked around to see if Sakura was any where in sight but she wasn't. She had seemed a bit distracted during the meeting but he could understand why. Sakura had recently been put in charge of her own division and tasked with healing the injured during this war. Lives were in her hands and the weight of that had to be heavy. He wanted to speak to her but she had left the room immediately after the meeting and took off before he could catch up.
Oh well, Naruto thought as he shrugged. I'll speak to Sakura-chan later. I'm running late enough as it is.
Naruto looked around at the quiet streets and frowned. The eerie silence of the ghost town that was once Konoha was un-nerving. Taking a deep breath Naruto walked off towards the bridge where he and Hinata had spoke to each other after his return over a month ago. Hinata had asked to speak to him and Naruto suggested meeting there.
As he got closer he saw Hinata standing on the bridge watching the water flowing. "Sorry I'm late Hinata," Naruto said. "That pointless meeting took forever."
Hinata blushed as she turned towards Naruto. "Oh no it's ok Naruto-kun," she said. "I understand how busy you are and how important you are."
Naruto gave a small smile and said, "Important?" Naruto leaned over the railing of the bridge and looked at the reflection of the moon on the water. "For years I worked my ass off to one day become important. Now it feels more like a burden than a blessing." "Naruto-kun," Hinata said as she looked at Naruto.
Naruto looked at Hinata and smiled. "Ah, I shouldn't be talking to you about my problems," Naruto said. "How are you Hinata? Are you ready for tomorrow?"
"Of course Naruto-kun," Hinata replied with a bright smile. "I've trained hard and I'm not afraid at all!"
"Oh really," Naruto said with a dubious smile.
Hinata let go a deep sigh like deflating balloon. "Alright Naruto-kun," she said. "The truth is I'm terrified. I've never been in anything like this. The whole village seems on edge. And I just don't know what to expect."
Naruto laughed a bit and said, "Hinata you've gotten real strong over the last few years. I'm happy to see how far you've come. You don't seem like the same old Hinata anymore. I'm positive you'll do just fine."
Hinata smiled. Naruto's re-assuring words had settled her nerves a bit. "Thank you Naruto-kun," she said as she bowed slightly. "Umm Naruto-kun, I know you probably don't have much time so maybe we should talk about why I asked to see you."
"Right," Naruto said with a smile as he scratched the back of his head.
Hinata took a deep breath and closed her eyes. C'mon Hinata, she thought. You've practiced this speech for days now.
"Hinata," Naruto asked with a puzzled look on his face. "Are you ok?"
"Oh," Hinata exclaimed as she blushed. "Yes, yes. I was just trying to gather my thoughts." Hinata then stopped and stared into Naruto's eyes. "Naruto," she said. "What do feel for me?"
******Meanwhile******
Sakura quickly walked through the forest just outside Konoha towards Konan's camp. Konan wasn't at the last meeting and throughout most of the meeting all she could think about was her and the things she had told her. Sakura could picture Naruto speaking with her after their first meeting and she knew she had to speak to Konan immediately.
Finally she could see the glow from the several campfires in the distance as she approached. Sakura then heard a rustling coming from the trees above. She didn't have to look up to know that that was an ANBU ninja signaling his presence. Danzo had allowed Konan and her men to remain camped outside the village but he made sure they were watched at all times. As a result about two dozen ANBU were stationed hidden in the trees all around the camp site watching them at all times.
Finally Sakura broke through the last of the bushes out into the clearing where all of the Arashikage's men sat around laughing and talking as they made their final preparations before leaving for battle. It amazed her how calm and relaxed they all seemed. It was a stark contrast to the anxiety in her village.
A group of ninja's closest to her stopped talking and stared at her. One of them, a short man with dark hair and an extremely muscular build, got to his feet and walked over. "Can I help you," he asked.
"My name is…," Sakura said but the man waived her off before she could finish.
"I already know who you are," the man said. "And I know why you're here."
"You do," said a surprised Sakura.
"Yes," he responded. "Lady Arashikage notified us that you might show up. I'll take you to her."
Sakura followed as the man lead her into the heart of the camp site where thousands of men and women sat in small groups or separately. Some were laughing as they ate, drank or made final preparations. Some slept while others still sat alone checking their gear. Again the one thing Sakura noticed was the distinct lack of fear. It was as if none of them realized the challenge and odds they would soon face.
Finally the ninja led her into the very center of the camp, where she could see Konan, her back turned to her, sitting on a stool and a makeshift table with a large, nearby camp fire providing her with light. Konan was pouring over maps of the region, no doubt studying where best to place her men.
Sakura and her guide walked up behind Konan in silence and before the man could speak Konan said, "So you finally came, Haruno Sakura?"
Realizing Konan already knew Sakura was there the man turned and left in silence leaving the two women. "How did you know I was here," Sakura asked.
"One of my men saw you arrive and came ahead to tell me," Konan responded as she continued studying the maps. Suddenly another man came by with a stool and placed it in front of Konan and walked away without saying a word. "Please sit Sakura-chan," she said as she gestured to the seat. "You you care for some food or water. We don't have much but we're willing to share."
"No. And I'd rather stand if that's alright with you," Sakura responded harshly as she stood in front of Konan.
"I see," Konan said as she looked up from the maps. "So, why are you here?"
"You tell me," Sakura responded. "Since you seemed to know I would come here I'm sure you knew the reason."
"You have come here to achieve your revenge," Konan said. "Either that or you want to know what Naruto-kun and I have been talking about. My money is on option two."
"What makes you think that," Sakura said.
"Let's just call it women's intuition," Konan responded.
"Hmpf," Sakura said. "You sure seem cocky Konan despite being so close to an entire village that may want you dead."
Konan crossed her arms and regarded Sakura for a moment. "Many people would like to see me dead. Why should I consider this any different?"
Sakura gritted her teeth. Konana's attitude was really getting to her. "Do you always act like such a bitch," she asked.
Konan smiled and said, "You know, I would think someone like you would know how to speak to a Kage with more respect."
"Giving yourself a stupid title doesn't mean you get you instant respect," Sakura responded. "Respect is earned."
Konan clapped slowly several times and smiled. Then she said, "Well said, Sakura-chan. Very well said. I can see now what Naruto-kun sees in you."
Sakura had a look of surprise on her face and said, "What did Naruto tell you about me?"
"He's told me as much about his feelings for you as you have told me about your feelings for him," Konan responded. "Which is to say nothing at all."
"Then how do you know anything," Sakura asked.
"Intuition," Konan said. "It's a pesky thing you know. It's obvious you care about him because you've come all the way out here on his behalf despite wanting nothing more than to smash my head on a rock."
"And how do you know that," Sakura asked.
"Your hands are shaking," Konan responded. "It's obvious that you're trying your best not to give in to your basic instincts to attack me. Every fiber in your body is screaming for revenge for your father. Yet you hold back. So revenge is not why you're here. So it must be Naruto-kun."
"And what if I did come here for revenge," Sakura said.
"Then we can find a private place to fight," Konan Said. "I'm not going to hold back though. Even though killing you isn't something I'd want to do."
"Why would you not want to kill me if I attacked you," Sakura asked.
Konan sighed. "You still don't get it do you Sakura-chan," she said. "How many ninja have you or your comrades killed over the years. How many of them were killed because of a personal vendetta? Not many I would assume. Most died because they simply prevented you from completing your mission. We're ninja Sakura-chan. Killing for us is rarely personal. It's business. So just because you have a reason to hate me doesn't mean I have one for you."
Sakura could feel the tension drain away as she finally decided to sit. Taking a deep breath she looked around at all the people moving about. "Your people," she said. "They seem so relaxed. Don't they realize that by tomorrow morning we'll all be on a battlefield?"
Konan couldn't help but laugh at Sakura's words. "Sakura," she said. "Every man and woman here was born and raised in the Land of Rain. It's a small country surrounded by the other large ones, including your own. As a result it has been used as the battleground for many wars."
Konan looked around at the faces of her soldiers and said, "We've all lost someone precious to us from one war or another. Going to war is as mundane for us as going to the hospital to do your rounds is for you. Which is why, in the end we try to enjoy these brief moments of peace. But I'm sure you didn't come out here to talk about the struggles of my homeland. What do you want?"
Sakura stared at Konan and in that moment she came to understand this woman a bit better and she could feel some of her hostility fade. "I need your help," Sakura said as she finally decided to get to the point. "Please tell me everything you know about Hoshigaki Kisame."
Konan could help but smile to herself after hearing Sakura's question. Intuition indeed, she thought.
******Meanwhile******
Naruto stared down at the doe eyed Hinata finding himself speechless. He had broken into a sweat and was stuttering severely. "W-w….umm….I….ah…wh…what did you….umm," Naruto muttered.
"How do you feel about me," Hinata asked again as she stared at Naruto.
Naruto turned bright red as he could feel queasiness in his stomach. It had been a long time since he'd felt this nervous. "Well Hinata, I uhh, think…..you're a great girl," he said with a smile.
Hinata expression suddenly seemed reflective in a way as if a great realization had come to her. "I'm a great girl," she responded. "But….you don't love me do you? Not like I love you."
Naruto took a deep breath and he seemed to grow a bit sad as he said, "Hinata, I'm sorry. I just…"
Before Naruto could finish Hinata smiled and said, "It's alright Naruto-kun. To be honest I've kind of always known. I just…needed to hear you say it, so I could move on."
"Hinata," Naruto said. "You really are a great person. And I know one day you will meet a guy who will make you really happy."
"I know Naruto-kun," Hinata responded. "You know, for all these years you've inspired me and helped me to get stronger and I just wanted to thank you for that."
Naruto laughed and said, "No offense Hinata, but you're an idiot. I wasn't the one who made you stay late to train. I wasn't the one who forced you to keep going no matter how tired or beat up you were. The reason you're stronger today isn't because of me. But because of your own strength. I didn't inspire you to become stronger. You are your own inspiration."
Hinata giggled and said, "Yeah. I guess you're right Naruto-kun. When did you get so wise?"
"I've been reading a lot of books," Naruto said with a smile.
"Really," Hinata asked.
"Nah," Naruto said which led to mutual laughter.
Naruto and Hinata then hugged. "Thank you Naruto-kun," Hinata said, "for everything."
"You're welcome Hinata," Naruto responded.
******Later that night******
Sakura walked down the lonely path towards Lady Tsunade's home. After her talk with Konan she had decided to go home to sleep in her own bed tonight. With everyone marching out to battle tomorrow she figured this may her last chance to do so. But once there she couldn't stand the cold silent feel of the place. Her mom had already been evacuated, as had everyone else. And she didn't want to be alone or spend the night with the other ninja's who were talking about nothing but the war. If tonight was going to be her last night of relative peace she was going to spend it happy.
Sakura used her key to open the door to Tsunade's home and walked in. All of the rooms were dark and there was no sound coming from anywhere. Sakura walked to Lady Tsunade's room and opened it gently and looked to see if she were asleep. Sakura wasn't surprised to see the bed was empty. She must be somewhere helping to prepare for the fight, she thought.
Sakura sighed and closed the door. She then went to Tsunade's spare room and got a towel and bath soap. She then went to the hot spring behind the house. As she removed her top she winced in pain and touched the large scar running down the length of the left side of her back.
She had received the scar during her fight with Sasuke. She was hit with his chidori near her spine and for some reason the wound was taking a long time to heal. Though she never complained, the pain was a constant and acted as a reminder of her ordeal.
Sakura touched her toes in the water and it was warm and inviting. As she was about to drop her shirt she head a sound behind her and when she looked back she saw Naruto sitting up against the wall with a drink in his hand and a look of shock plastered on his face. For a moment time seemed to stop between the two of them as they stared at each other, red faced, until Naruto nervously said, "Uhhh….hi!"
"Aaaahhh," Sakura screamed as she covered her breasts with her shirt. "Naruto you pervert! What the hell are you doing! You're spying on me!"
Naruto dropped his drink and waived his hands in protest. "No,no," Naruto yelled. "I was here first! You came by and started getting undressed!"
Sakura put her shirt back on, careful not to let Naruto get a peek and then yelled, "Even if that's true why didn't you say something instead of just sitting there and watching me take my clothes off?"
"Well…..uhh…well….you see…..I….," Naruto stuttered nervously as he could see Sakura getting madder. Naruto was desperate to find an explanation that didn't make him out to be a pervert but nothing came to him. Realizing he was pretty much caught he instead decided to try a different approach.
Putting on the most charming smile he could Naruto shrugged and said, "Ok, I got nothing by way of an excuse. But are you really going to get mad at me?"
Naruto stared at Sakura in horror as she got to her feet and stomped towards him. He could swear he saw flames coming from her eyes and veins popping out from her forehead as she rolled up her right sleeve.
Realizing his mistake Naruto burst into a cold sweat as Sakura approached. "Ooooh boy," he said nervously.
"Naaaaruuuuutoooo," Sakura screamed as she punched Naruto with such force the house shook. She then pulled him from the dirt and held him by the collar and began to shake him violently.
Fifteen minutes later Naruto was sitting on the bed in the spare room. He had a small gash on his head that was still bleeding. Sakura walked in the room with a bowl of hot water and a cloth. Sakura sat next to him and placed the cloth on his cut and began to treat it.
Naruto winced as she began to wipe his wound. "Oh don't be a baby," Sakura whispered. "This doesn't hurt that bad." Sakura and Naruto remained silent until Sakura said, "You really are an idiot Naruto. What were you doing back there anyway?"
"I guess I was there the same reason you were," Naruto said. "I just wanted a few minutes to be alone and think."
"Well it's alright to be alone but sneaking around like that could get you hurt," Sakura said.
"Ha," Naruto said with a smile. "Yeah, for a second there I thought I was gonna die."
"I…I'm sorry Naruto," Sakura said. "I guess I over-reacted back there. I…never should have hit you that hard."
"It's alright Sakura," Naruto said and he looked at Sakura who wasn't more than a few inches away from his face. "I kinda….deserved it." For a moment the two stared into each others eyes as Naruto marveled at just how beautifully green Sakura's eyes were. Sakura was momentarily lost in Naruto's deep blue eyes and swallowed hard before getting up quickly. "Y-you're wound stopped bleeding," she said.
Sakura walked over and placed the bowl on the dresser when Naruto asked, "He gave you that wound on your back didn't he?"
Sakura gripped the edge of the dresser as if the question itself caused her pain. With a forced, fake smile Sakura turned to face Naruto and said, "I don't know what you're talking about Naruto. I got this during a training exercise."
Naruto gritted his teeth and clench his fist and raised his voice as he said, "Sakura-chan! Please stop lying. He did that to you. Sasuke…he hurt you. I know because one of the things Madara told me in that vision was what Sasuke did. I didn't mention it to the others."
Sakura was shocked and saddened. "I've healed all the other wounds," she said. "But this one isn't healing quickly at all. I don't know why."
Naruto got to his feet and walked up to Sakura and grabbed her by the hand and said, "Sakura-chan I am so sorry this happened! I f I was there…."
"It's ok Naruto," Sakura said as she squeezed his hand. "You can't be everywhere at once Naruto. Besides, I was able to hold my own and survive. This isn't your fault at all."
Sakura walked past Naruto and sat on the bed. "I can't believe Sasuke would actually do something like this," Naruto said sadly.
Sakura took a deep breath and said, "Maybe he had no choice Naruto. Madara was there. Maybe Madara forced him to…"
"No Sakura," Naruto said as he faced her. "There is always a choice. Sasuke did this because he wanted to. You know that as much as I do. It's time we stop trying to give Sasuke the benefit of the doubt."
"Then what do you plan to do," Sakura asked.
Naruto was silent for a moment until he said, "Sasuke wants the destruction of not just Konoha but the whole world. I have to stop him, even if it costs me my own life."
"I really wish you wouldn't say things like that," Sakura said as she jumped to her feet. "You can't just sacrifice yourself like you do. If something were to happen do you have any idea how much it would hurt the people you leave behind? Naruto if you want to stop Sasuke then you have to do it without dying or else I'll never forgive you."
Naruto smiled and said, "Right. You got it."
"Well," Naruto said as he picked up his shirt. "I should head back to the meeting hall to…" Suddenly he felt dizzy and dropped to one knee and moaned, grabbing his head.
"Naruto," Sakura yelled as she ran up to Naruto and grabbed him. "You're not going anywhere. You need to rest."
"No…time," Naruto said.
"Nonsense," Sakura said as she led him to the bed and helped him to lie down. Then, to his surprise, Sakura laid down next to him under his arm. "Sakura-chan….what are you doing," he asked.
"Well, I have to make sure you don't leave don't I," Sakura asked. Naruto began to blush as he felt Sakura's body next to his. He could feel her breathing on his bare skin.
Sakura remained silent as she laid on Naruto's hard chest and stomach and listened to his heart beat. She could hear his heart was racing and she couldn't help but give a little smile. Slowly, almost nervously, Naruto moved his hand until he was touching her shoulder and he hugged her to him and they stayed this way for a long time.
"Sakura-chan," Naruto said, "Tomorrow is going to be dangerous. A lot of things are going to happen tomorrow. Many people may die. In case this may be my only chance I just wanted you to know that I….I love you. I've felt this way for a long time and I….I didn't want something to happen to me without you knowing."
Naruto remained silent for a moment hoping Sakura would answer but she remained silent. "I…I…know you probably don't feel the same," he continued. "And I know how you still may feel about Sasuke. But I just felt like I would hate myself if I died without at least telling you."
Still Sakura was silent. "Sakura-chan," Naruto said. "Sakura-chan?" Naruto gently moved Sakura's hair and realized she had fallen asleep. Naruto took a deep breath and smiled as he saw her sleeping peacefully on him. I could get used to this, he thought as he looked at the ceiling with a smile. After a few minutes he drifted off to sleep.
Once she was sure he was asleep Sakura opened her eyes. She turned and looked up at Naruto's face and tears began to flow from her eyes. She reached up and stroked his chin and smiled sadly. She then laid down on him again and hugged him tightly and closed her eyes and went to sleep.
It was slightly more than an hour before dawn when Naruto and Sakura were awakened by someone just outside the window. "Naruto-kun," said the man. "Are you in there?"
Naruto groaned as he looked to see Sakura still lying on his chest. Wow, this really wasn't a dream, he thought. Sakura's eyes began to open as well.
"Naruto-kun," the man called again.
"Yeah," Naruto said. "What is it?"
"Everyone will be marching out in less than an hour sir," the man said. "We've all been looking everywhere for you. Danzo has asked that you return to his office."
"Right," Naruto said.
"Ok,' the man said as he was leaving. "Also, we're looking for Sakura-chan as well. If you see her tell her she needs to report to her Division."
Naruto looked down at a smiling Sakura and smiled. "Yeah," he said. "If I see her I'll let her know."
After the man was gone Naruto said, "Good morning Sakura-chan."
"Good morning Naruto," Sakura said.
Naruto touched her hair and played with it in his fingers and asked, "Did you sleep ok?"
"Yep," Sakura said. "You're pretty comfortable." Realizing she actually said that out loud caused her to blush violently. "I…mean…ahh," she stuttered.
Naruto just laughed as he sat up. "Anyway," he said. "I think we should get going. I need to be there and Division Six needs their Commander." As Naruto got to his feet he reached for his shirt and was about to put it on when he felt Sakura hold on to his waist and the side of her face on his back.
"I don't want you to die," she said. "Naruto, I know you better than most and I know you're planning to do something reckless today." Naruto sighed as he listened to her.
Sakura turned Naruto around to face her and Naruto could see she was crying. "Naruto do you remember the last promise you made to me," she asked.
Suddenly Naruto flashbacked to that moment and those words: "Don't Worry Sakura-chan! I'll bring him back! It's a promise of a lifetime!"
"Yeah," Naruto said. "I remember."
"Well, I want you to make another promise," Sakura said as she turned and walked back across the room and looked out the window.
Naruto then said, "Sure Sakura-chan, anything you want."
"Promise me that when this war is over you'll come back to me," Sakura said.
"Sakura-chan," Naruto said.
"Promise me Naruto," Sakura said. "That'll you'll live and that when this is over you'll stay…with me."
"With you," Naruto asked. "What do you mean?"
Sakura sighed and rolled her eyes. She then saw a footstool sitting next to the side of the bed. She kicked the foot stool forcing it to slide across the room and stop at Naruto's feet. She then quickly walked up and stood on it placing her at eye level with Naruto. Before he could respond Sakura suddenly grabbed Naruto by the face and kissed him deeply. At first Naruto was frozen in shock, but quickly warmed up and pulled Sakura to him as they continued to kiss.
Eventually they stopped and separated. "Well," Sakura asked. "Is it a promise?"
With a euphoric smile Naruto whispered, "It's a promise. A promise of a lifetime."
Eventually Naruto backed up as he stared at Sakura with what he knew had to be the goofiest look on his face. But he didn't care. What had just happened was something he had dreamt about for years. Naruto stumbled about as he put on his clothes and then walked to the door. "I guess I'll see you soon," he said with a smile.
"Yeah," Sakura said as she watched Naruto leave the room. Just as he opened the door Sakura said, "I love you too." Naruto stopped in his tracks with his eyes and mouth wide open in surprise. He then looked back and smiled before leaving.
******Thirty minutes later******
The young boy, Katsu sat on the steps as he nervously fumbled around as he tried to secure his gear. He zipped up his flack jacket and then strapped his tool belt around his waist. His hands were shaking furiously and he felt on the verge of throwing up as he looked around and saw the hundreds of Konoha Ninja making similar adjustments.
The boy felt like he was trapped in a whirlwind with no way out. He was only eleven years old and was now sitting in a large field near one of the entrances to Konoha, among hundreds of seasoned ninja preparing for war. The boy took a deep breath and tried to calm himself to no avail and when he opened his eyes he saw another boy, Akihiko who was also in his class, staring nervously at him.
Akihiko looked as scared as he knew he must look and in a strange way it made him feel better to know that he wasn't alone in his fear. The two boys nodded to each other and returned to their preparations.
Katsu grabbed his last kunai and tried to place it in his pouch but his hands were shaking so much that it slipped and fell to the ground. The boy sighed and reached to grab it when another hand got there first and picked it up. The boy looked up and was surprised to see the blonde man standing next to him with a smile.
"You should be more careful," Naruto said. "The tools of a ninja are precious and should be treated with care."
"I know," Katsu responded. "That's exactly what Iruka-sensei tells us."
"Ahh," Naruto said with a smile. "So you're in his class? So was I. You should listen to him, he's a smart man."
"Yeah," Katsu responded as he sadly looked at his feet.
Naruto looked at the boy and frowned a bit before asking, "What's you're name and rank?"
"Yashida Katsu," the boy responded. "I'm still in the academy. I was scheduled to graduate next year. I'm still struggling with using a kunai."
Naruto looked at the kunai in his hand and then at the Katsu. "Using a kunai was once hard for me to learn too," Naruto said as he began spinning the kunai in his hand. "Iruka-sensei taught me that a ninja's weapons can't just be looked at just tools but an extension of themselves. Using a kunai has to be a natural as using your fingers."
Naruto stopped spinning the kunai and placed it in Katsu's hand. "Here's a little tip," he said. "Don't grip the kunai tight with your fingers. You should leave your fingers loose so that you can move the kunai into positions quickly. Instead hold it steady from your palm using the strength of your forearm."
Katsu smiled and said, "Thank you Naruto-san." Katsu then looked around at all the people moving about. There was a heavy sadness in the air. "Many of the others here say we don't stand a chance against Akatsuki."
Naruto placed his hand on the boys shoulder and said, "As long as we live there is hope. As long as we have hope, we can win."
Just then Yamato walked up and said, "Naruto, I'm glad you could make it."
Naruto smiled and nodded one last time at the boy before standing up and walking away with Yamato. "Did you really think I would miss this," Naruto said.
As they walked about the ninja's who were now getting on their feet and preparing to move out Naruto couldn't help but notice the despair on most of their faces. They all looked like they were marching to their deaths.
"They all look so scared," Naruto said just loud enough for Yamato to hear.
"Wouldn't you be," Yamato responded. "We're so outnumbered that we've been forced to draft people who have no business being on a battle field. Some, like that boy you were talking to are too young."
Yamato then looked to several wrinkled old men who seemed as though they would collapse under the weight of their own gear. "And some are too old," he said.
Naruto then stopped and looked at all the men for a moment before whispering to Yamato. "Ok," Yamato said as he quickly made some hand signs and said, "Wood Release!"
At the same time Iruka walked up just as a wooden platform rose out of the dirt underneath Naruto's feet. The platform rose ten feet into the air allowing Naruto to survey the large company of soldiers.
Naruto took a deep breath and tried to quell the sudden feeling of butterflies in his stomach as the soldiers milled about. "Good morning," Naruto said as he tried to get everyone's attention. Many turned to look at the blonde man who addressed them but many still weren't paying attention. "Good Morning," Naruto said again this time louder than before.
Finally he had the attention of every man there and Naruto could feel their eyes on him. Naruto again took a deep, nervous breath before he spoke. "My name is Uzu….I'm sorry…My name is Namikaze Naruto," Naruto said. "It's still going to take some time getting used to the new name. Today we all are about to take part in an incredible battle. A battle not just for the fate of Konoha but I guess, the fate of the world."
Naruto then suddenly stopped and looked around at all the faces staring back at him and shook his head slightly. "Tch," he said. "You know, I wanted to come up here and say something to inspire you all until I realized I'm not really that good at making speeches."
"For someone who's not very good he sure has made a lot of them over the years," Iruka whispered to Yamato.
"And here I am and the only speech I can come up with is some generic crap," Naruto said as he buried his face into his palm. "Look, I'm not going to lie to you guys, I was a terrible student back in the academy. I never listened, never did the things I was supposed to do, I was difficult to teach." Iruka nodded in agreement.
"But there was always one topic that always got my attention," Naruto continued. "It was the history of Konoha. Or more importantly, the stories about the adventures of the previous Hokage's. I always wanted to be like them. To be heroes like them. To find adventure and battle and become famous warriors like them. But as I grew up realized something. That they never sought out adventure and danger and war. These things came to them. And they chose to face it head on. Were they scared? I'm sure they were. But they never ran. Because they were not fighting for themselves, but for their friends. Their families. For me. For all of us.
"My name is Namikaze Naruto," Naruto said. "And I am a son of Konoha. And you are all my brothers and sisters. And today I will fight for you. And all I ask is that you now remember what you fight for. Who you have to win for."
Iruka and Yamato looked on as Naruto spoke and noticed the gradual change in the faces of all the soldiers who watched Naruto.
"Brothers and sisters of Konoha," Naruto said. "The will of fire was created in our ancestors and it now burns in all of us! When our enemies attacked during the first ninja war the will of fire still burned. When our enemies nearly destroyed us during the second war the will of fire still burned! And now as we to face an enemy that wants nothing but our deaths, but we will show them why the people of Konoha are so dangerous! Because we will never give up! We will never stop fighting! We will always fight for our friends, for our families, for those who came before us and those who will come after!"
All through the group everyone began to respond to Naruto's words. Yamato and Iruka could see a fire in their eyes and a growing excitement.
"So today," Naruto said. "We will head out there and do what our ancestors did. We will show our enemies that we can't be defeated. That Konoha can never be destroyed. And that the will of fire can never…ever…be extinguished!"
The entire army roared in jubilation and agreement as Naruto raised his hands in triumph. Near the rear of the army Tsunade stood with Danzo and the other elders and smiled. "And now you have become the shield," she whispered.
Naruto leapt down from the platform and was met by the cheering crowd. "Alright," Yamato yelled over the crowd. "Everyone get into your formations! We're moving out!"
As everyone quickly got into their places Yamato noticed Naruto was standing at the head of his Division. "Naruto what are you doing," he asked. "I thought we all agreed that you'd remain here."
Naruto smiled and said, "There's more than one way to make sure I'm with you all." Naruto then pointed to across the filed to Division five's formation. And standing at the head was Naruto as well. Yamato then looked to each Division and at each one was Naruto.
He then turned back to the Naruto in front of him and smiled. "You're using clones," he said. "But will they hold up?"
"These clones are new and improved and can take a lot more damage," Naruto responded. "Do you have one of those kunai I gave you?"
"Yes," Yamato said as he patted his tool pouch. "Each one of the Division Captains have one. I just hope you're plan works."
"I just hope we won't have to use them at all," Naruto said. "This jutsu hasn't been perfected yet."
"Naruto," Yamato said. "If all of you are clones, then where is the real you?"
"Don't worry Yamato-taicho," Naruto said with a smile. And about a mile away sitting atop the roof of the Hokage's office was Naruto. His legs were crossed and he was in deep concentration while his body had a bright red glow around emanating around him. Standing behind him was Ino who stared at him with a bit of astonishment.
Naruto's eyes opened and his pupils were both fox-like and toad-like. "Don't worry Yamato-taicho," Naruto said. "I won't be far away at all."
End of Chapter Twenty Two
Next Time: Harbinger of Destruction
Prepare yourself...The Curse is coming.