AN: Hey everyone, sorry for taking longer than usual to update.

I will confess guilty as charged, I have been too occupied with playing Starcraft 2...oh and decided to take up extra courses at uni, so been busy with that somewhere in the mix :)

A more genuine reason being is I've been quite a bit excited and nervous with releasing this chapter, but I will get to that point at the end of the chapter.

Manga talk - hehe, my initial impression of one change being required actually has grown astronomically as each recent chapter was released. Lot's of my plot has kind of become invalid you could say. Ouch. After reading all of your very appreciated feedback to my question, quite a few really good points have been raised that I agree to on both sides. I have decided to continue at this moment as I have done with going with my own way, however trying to link it as well as possible to the manga. In time I may very well update to somehow fix that inconsistency, however it will definitely be something I would have to be very careful with doing, as it has become quite a large job. Also there is Morlandros' very good point there somewhere a line has to be drawn.

KuroiTori-sama ~I'll reply to your review in here because i know you are reading both and others may be interested. Thank you for your review, I must say that you and Eagleman's support made me open up the Unborn Genius word document after a long time. It is a story I will still continue to update because frankly I just love writing about Rock Lee, however I've been really itching to complete this story since I am just so very close. Thank you again.

Chapter 61 - Dubious appetite

Tsunade to her misfortune left soon after she was caught by Naruto, Sakura, and Jiraiya from her own slipup. She had returned to 'my confinement 'as she put it, being the hokage's office. Of course she didn't allow Jiraiya any leeway as she semi forced him to accompany her. She had yet to have any discussion at all with Jiraiya since the Konoha group's return.

The toad sannin was leaning against one of the windows he had opened to look outside at the falling sun, while Tsunade had seated herself in her chair, "Quite an interesting development don't you think Tsunade?"

Reading her old teammate's meaning, Tsunade complied, "That it sure is. I trust you are not going to leave them alone?"

"Hey hey, I know when to respect people's privacy."

The snort could not have been any louder in response, "Yeah, right. I almost feel sorry for them when you write some highly exaggerated and disturbing book about them. They're so young and still innocently minded too for goodness sake's Jiraiya."

"Whoa, Whoa! You make it sound like I've started writing this 'book' alread-"

"When are you going to tell me about your wound?" Tsunade butted in, changing both the subject and the tone of this conversation.

The sannin's lack of response made Tsunade's brows furrow as she stared at her old teammate, "Sakura has told me lots of things, things that to my shock have made me really, really angry. You would think after all these years, I would get accustomed by now that you are just as big of a reckless idiot as Naruto is."

Finding it hurtful to continue glaring at Jiraiya, Tsunade's eyes locked onto the closed door before her as she continued, "What on earth were you trying to do Jiraiya?"

"...I was trying to teach him how to use the Kyuubi so he could use that power that both those people gave him."

"But at what cost? You haven't even succeeded from what Sakura has told me. Naruto has even vowed not to use that power ever again. Then there is what has happened to you. Both of you have just hurt yourselves from dwelling into it."

"These are things that take relentless amounts of effort and time to accomplish. The path of a jinkuriki is no easy road for anyone as we both have seen from in the past."

"Just because that power is there does not mean Naruto should take the risk of using it."

"Minato and Kushina believed in him." Biting her lower lip hard, Tsunade's head snapped around to glare, but no words could be mustered out.

Seeing Tsunade was lost with how to respond, Jiraiya prodded the Godaime further, "Weren't you the one saying to me you believed in him just as much?"

"That doesn't mean I want to see him and you hurt from such dangerous training."

"When you have powerful forces after you, what alternative does he have, Tsunade?"

Giving up that she had no such argument to shoot back, Tsunade calmed herself, "But that still brings the point up that Naruto has promised to not use the Kyuubi anymore."

Walking over to the front of the desk, Jiraiya dropped himself into the empty chair, "I will have to convince him otherwise. He needs to have great control of the Kyuubi if he is to obtain the remainder of its power. Along with completing the jutsu we have been training towards that requires such vast and timid chakra."

Perking up an eyebrow, Tsunade repeated, "Jutsu?"

"How I am going to change the gaki's mind though is a bit of a problem, perhaps I may need to try and convince the one person he seems to listen to first."

The Godaime leaned back in her chair, deciding not to chase her question that Jiraiya seemingly ignored. Perhaps Jiraiya felt it was best if she didn't know any specifics, "Just because Sakura may agree with you doesn't mean Naruto is going to change his mind at the snap of your fingers. Sakura told me everything about what happened with the unexpected encounter with Sasuke. She can tell the actions of what the Kyuubi did still remains fresh on Naruto's conscience."

"Of course I know that fact very well. It would simply help in the long run."

Taking a deep sigh, the Godaime replied, "Sakura won't exactly be around all the time either, especially once you and Naruto are travelling on the road again. I assume that is what you both will be doing?"

Jiraiya nodded, "That's right. I have put aside my duties long enough from the spy network due to this mission, and I will have to leave soon."

"For the remaining five months?"

"Yes. Any longer and I just know the gaki is going to get worked up that Sasuke will be running out of time."

Shifting in his chair, the sannin decided to bring back the previous issue, "You are not going to ask for me to show you the scar?"

Closing her eyes, the hokage shook her head, "Sakura said there was nothing she or anybody could do to reverse it. She has come along far enough for me to trust her diagnosis as if it were my own."

Rubbing her temple for a moment, Tsunade met her old teammates eye, "But you damn well better make sure you don't come back with more irreversible injuries."

Smirking, the toad sannin folded his arms smugly, "Heh, I didn't know my well being was so important to you?" He said in that typical flirtatious way he does.

Tsunade rolled her eyes at his antics, "I'm still questioning why a part of me cares about your clumsy, reckless, and juvenile minded self."

"You always have to put it in a cold and cruel manner don't you?"

A knock on the door interrupted Tsunade's response.

Clearing her throat, she called out 'enter' as the door flung open to reveal Asuma. His roughened up appearance to both the sannin's trained eyes meant he had recently gotten into a brawl with somebody.

Quickly bowing, Asuma reported, "Hokage-sama, we have had something happen quite to our surprise!"

"What is it?" She asked, while suddenly her eyes fell to see Kakashi who was standing behind Asuma.

When the Sarutobi stepped to the side, both Tsunade and Jiraiya shot out of their chairs to see a lifeless body flung over Kakashi's shoulder.

Tsunade didn't need to ask about the identity of the person, 'The ANBU leak?'

Two days later...

Admiring the cool breeze from the fresh air of outside, Sakura looked up at the white clouds of the bright and sunny day. Now able to finally leave her dull hospital room, Sakura was so desperate to see any other colour than cream, she took advantage of the small lively garden in the centre of the hospital grounds as means of escape. Sakura could relate to for the first time with all of the shinobi patients she had seen come into the hospital. They wanted to leave as soon as possible and never come back, and part of her was beginning to brew the same opinion.

The place was just so restrictive, and ever so bland and empty. It was a ghastly thought since she always was the one encouraging patients to stay until they were well. However against that, here she was wanting to get away from the grounds, and even changing into her usual red long sleeved top and black tracksuits she slept in to just feel alive.

The couple of benches and tables, the vibrant colours of different plants, and the great tree in its centre was a soothing sight. This freedom was a godsend, even if she had to tow her IV around with her, and she was still stuck in the grounds.

Leaning back against the wooden bench, she sighed in satisfaction, while using a red book she had bought out with her as an arm rest. She concluded she was going to stay out here for as long as possible.

It was not as though she had anything else to do now due to a certain blond stealing something of hers...

-.-

Flashback - Yesterday, Inside Sakura's hospital room

-.-

"Are you ever going to go home?" Sakura teased Naruto, who was leaning back in the chair next to the bed she was sitting up in.

The blond grinned at the ceiling, "Neh, if you are saying I'm not wanted-"

"-I never said that, but surely you of all people have better things to do than staying here doing nothing at all."

"Why does that sound familiar?"

"Hehe, because you said it to me back in Wave."

Grinning, Sakura tried to tempt him, "Maybe you have some training to continue with? How will Ichiraku's stay in business if their number one customer isn't there? Don't you want to get even with Kiba for him copying your jutsu?"

Naruto's eyes now holding interest met the ceiling as his finger rested on his chin in thought, "You know, now that you mention it, that teme did copy me! Hmm, I'll get even with him later."

Chuckling, Sakura shrugged, "Well if you're really happy staying it doesn't bother me." She replied, despite Naruto's response not exactly being an answer at all.

Remembering something, Sakura pointed to across the room, where her normal attire was neatly folded on the couch, "Can you please bring me my weapon pouch? If I'm stranded here, I might as well continue reading."

Naruto's face held pure disagreement, "You're not talking about that henta-..."

Sakura's glare harshly made him reconsider his words, "Err-I mean- Ero-sennin's 'amazing' books?"

"Just bring me my weapon pouch." Sakura barked.

"Sure thing." Naruto chirped just a little too cheerful to be legit.

Shooting him a quizzical look for a moment, Sakura took her pouch and opened it and blinked in semi surprise. Her two books were not where she had them usually placed.

Shuffling through the weapon pouch, she soon voiced her issue, "Where are my books?"

Then she suddenly heard it.

Naruto's 'innocent' whistle as he sat down, finding everything else but her fascinating.

Her eyes narrowed in suspicion, "What did you do?"

Naruto's response and reaction was delayed as if he was daydreaming, however the way his eyes deliberately avoided her gaze made it clear it was all a very poor act.

"Sorry- what did you say Sakura-chan?"

"Don't play dumb baka, what did you do?"

"Huh? With wha-"

"My books! Where are they Naruto!"

Meanwhile, at mount Myobokuzan, within Fukusaku and Shima's home...

"You say Naruto-chan gave y'er these?" Fukusaku grumbled in confusion to Kosuke.

The cause for his dilemma was the two red and orange covered books that were near his size partially opened before him. Kosuke shrugged, "Yeah, he said to 'get rid of them'. So I figured just bring them here."

Perking one of his amphibious eyebrows, Fukusaku randomly flicked to a page in the orange book.

Within moments, the elder toad snorted in disgust, "What sort of rubbish is this?"

Grabbing the cover of the book, Fukusaku read the title and frowned, "Huh? These 're Jiraiya-chan's."

"Dinner is ready Tau-cha-..chan?" Shima picked the worst time to hop into the room. Fukusaku's appearance was near priceless, yet he had that stunned expression that Shima interpreted as if he was caught red handed with something.

Seeing the title of the book, the elder toad's eyes narrowed, before she span around and hopped away in a defiant manner, "Dinner won't be ready for a very, very long time!"

"W-Wait Ka-chan! You've got it all wrong!"

Back with Naruto and Sakura

"You did WHAT?"

"Hehe, you know now that I think about it, I better not let that teme Kiba copy something else from me-I'll-be-back-later!"

It was astounding just how fast Naruto could dart for the door, yet still try and act as if nothing was amiss.

The growling woman struggling to get out of bed only made him move faster, "Naruto!"

-.-

End Flashback

-.-

She had yet to see him after he abruptly ran for it, but she certainly was not going to let Naruto get off free for that. These past couple of days otherwise had went by very uneventful to her eyes. Her mother usually visited her in the mornings before carrying out her daily tasks, and Naruto pretty much stayed for as long as he was permitted. It still shocked Sakura that neither of the two had yet to run into each other. She concluded that unless fate changed her plan, she would introduce the two after she was released.

Sakura's admiration of nature was sadly interrupted by the sound of the door clicking open across the garden.

Looking to see who it was, she smiled at the new comer, however they beat her to the greeting, "Sakura-neechan!"

"Moegi-chan."

Until Sakura was released, she had thought out some things to do to keep herself busy, training Moegi being at the top of her list. The younger kunoichi paced herself to come before Sakura, carrying the book Sakura gave her over a month ago, along with a metal bucket in her other hand.

"How are you feeling today Sakura-neechan?"

"Not too bad, just glad to be able to leave my room."

Sitting, Moegi eyed the IV, "Are you sure you are up for this Sakura-neechan? If you want to call it off and relax, I'm more than happy for that."

Chuckling, Sakura grinned, "Isn't it the sensei's choice to decide that?"

"O-Oh-I was just feeling concerned-"

"Hehe-Relax Moegi-chan, I'm only teasing. I frankly have rested enough, and now I'm ironically tired of it. I have been looking forward to doing pretty much anything productive."

Smiling with a nod, Moegi soon became serious as her grasp tightened on the book in her lap, "I have studied this book as best as I can, Sakura-neechan." She announced, Sakura not missing that note that sounded as if Moegi was displeased with that.

Grinning, Sakura took the book from Moegi and rested it on her own lap, "Very good..."

Seeing Moegi tense as if awaiting something, Sakura's grin widened, "...You expect me to quiz you?"

"U-Umm...hai, you said you were going to."

"Well sorry to disappoint, but I am not."

The expression Sakura was receiving comically reminded her of the same emotion she showed to Tsunade when the same thing was done to her. Pure bafflement, while Tsunade simply smirked at her in response.

Sakura's own version of this re-enactment was a reassuring smile, "Let's be realistic with each other. I handed you a large text book that discusses in depth all about the human body, along with how chakra works within all of us. This book was written purely for research. You need to have an adept knowledge and understanding in medicine to comprehend its contents. It's a book you cannot just hand over to anybody and ask them to read, expecting they will understand."

Seeing Moegi's eyes showing curiosity, Sakura rose the book to examine. She noticed a red ribbon positioned only a fraction through the sea of pages.

Opening the book to that section, Sakura continued, "You said 'You studied it to the best of your ability' with a disappointed note. You haven't been able to finish it?"

Nibbling her lower lip, Moegi looked down at the grass in shame, "No, I haven't...I am sorr-"

"Why could you not finish it?" Sakura calmly over spoke, as she flicked through the previous pages, looking for something of interest.

Finally, she came to a page showing a diagram of the chakra network, seeing a lone sticky note with writing on it. Sakura smiled as she read what was clearly Moegi's handwriting. They were notes. Moegi in the meantime was muttering something, while Sakura took up the sticky note and waved it in front of the genin.

"You left one in here."

Flushing, Moegi quickly took it, but Sakura continued, "It was too complicated for you to understand at first glance, wasn't it?"

Gaping, Moegi nodded, as Sakura looked back at the same diagram that she recalled drove her nuts back when she first saw this.

"I-I tried reading it over and over again. I just couldn't get it."

"Hmm. So what did you do?"

"I tried asking people I knew if they could explain it to me."

"How did that go?"

"...no help."

"Did you get frustrated?"

The answer was obvious, but Sakura knew what she was building up to. Moegi followed Sakura's path, "I...Yes."

"Did you once go so annoyed you gave up for a day, maybe even longer."

"...Hai."

Sensing Moegi's voice growing nervous, Sakura smiled, "But you still didn't give up all together?"

Nodding her head, Moegi reached for something in her weapon pouch, "I decided to go to the Konoha library and grab some other books. I found an entire book that discussed that diagram, and broke it down into more basic terms I could understand."

Sakura couldn't smile any wider, as she saw Moegi present a small blue notebook, "I wrote everything down in this." Taking what she was offered, Sakura flickered through the small book. Just feeling the cover, Sakura could tell a lot of passion went into this.

Returning the book, Sakura beamed, "Excellent. You have passed my test Moegi-chan."

"H-Huh? Test? B-But you said-"

"This book was your test Moegi-chan."

Seeing Moegi was clearly confused just as Sakura was that time, Sakura explained, "There are several vital requirements needed to train a medic-nin as I am sure you know. Firstly you need great levels chakra control, which from memory if your academy grades were anything to go by, you pass that mark. Secondly, you must be able to handle obtaining an extensive breadth of knowledge, and then finally applying that knowledge you have learnt. These are the main three, however there is one special prerequisite that is needed before all that..."

Pausing for a moment, Sakura smiled, "Motivation."

"M-Motivation?"

"Even if you are a sponge when it comes to absorbing information, there is then the skill of applying this knowledge in practice. Medic-nin training is more full on than many expect it to truly be. It is hard, and requires a strong and constant motivation if one is to become skilled at it. Most people find when something is becoming too hard they wash their hands of it and leave it. It is that passion that drives us to try and better ourselves which makes the difference between a good or novice medic-nin, or any person for that matter. This test was created by Tsunade-sama to discover this quality alone."

Clearing her throat, Sakura concluded, "In other words, this test was designed so you basically had to build your own understanding from near nothing in order to comprehend the knowledge within the books pages. Those that were too lazy or gave up all together failed this test because they lacked in the passion. However, those who constantly were trying to understand this book have shown they have a strong motivation and desire to learn."

The orange haired genin was in awe, but still confused, "S-So this test was to discover if I had that special requirement, and I passed it?"

"Indeed."

Sensing still bafflement which again rung some bells of familiarity to her, Sakura offered a hand, "May I please burrow a kunai?"

Blinking, Moegi did as instructed, but soon cried out in shock when Sakura cut into her own palm, "S-Sakura-neechan? Why are you cutting your hand?"

'Heh, I admit this stupid idea has come from you, Naruto. However more or less I just want to do something since my chakra control has come back.'

"Relax, I just want to show you something."

Placing down the stained weapon on the bench, Sakura presented the gash on her palm, "Tell me, when you asked about learning medical jutsu, did you have the belief it was as systematic and logical as an ordinary ninjutsu?"

Slowly nodding, Sakura brought up her other hand to point at her wound, "Then allow me to demonstrate the three different scenarios to you. Firstly, we have someone who has the control, however is limited in knowledge with medical jutsu."

Her hand began to glow, however the injury remained. On very close inspection, Moegi noticed the blood trickling had ceased, making her eyes widen, "T-The injury isn't being healed?"

"Correct, it is only being put pressure on to keep the wound clean and stop any bleeding. This here is the skill level of an average member of ANBU or even a jounin. Now here is what happens if you lack the chakra control, however you learnt the jutsu simply from a scroll."

Sakura was impressed she didn't wince when her hand began to sizzle from her chakra, Moegi however was beginning to panic, "I-It's burning you!"

"Chakra naturally is extremely hot just like fire. If we are exposed to a large or concentrated quantity of it, or it's being wildly used, we can get what is known as a chakra burn. Now last but not least, this is an example of someone with the knowledge of medical jutsu, along with having the precise control."

Using only her index finger, Sakura rubbed over the wound, which as her finger passed over, immediately was healed. Moegi was awestruck while looking at the now in perfect condition hand. Sakura grinned at the genin, "So if Tsunade-sama's test did not make sense to you, I hope this demonstration has."

Quickly nodding, Moegi's gaze became firm, "I want to learn medical jutsu so I can help Konohamaru and Udon."

To the genin it was more than enough motivation, and Sakura could see that very well, "Then we best make a start."

Sakura chuckled when Moegi's expression fell when Sakura handed her another book, "Unfortunately there is more reading to be done, however I am also giving you a practical exercise to perform as well. Judging by the smell, I take it you bought the fish."

Receiving an approval nod, Moegi lifted a large brown fish out of the bucket, which earned a 'Yosh' from Sakura. Standing, Sakura walked towards another bench with a table, "Please bring the bucket and the book I just gave you. Leave everything else."

Putting herself on the other side of the table, Sakura watched Moegi place the bucket on it before she took out a lone fish and laid it out, "The book I have given you talks all about the most common jutsu to a medic-nin. The Mystical palm technique, Shushen jutsu. While you are reading through it, I have pre-marked points in the book where you are to attempt medical jutsu on these fish. You will only be able to reach the goal I have also set in each part if you understand the information you have read and then put to practice."

While she was talking, Sakura had brought her hands over the body of the fish, and performed the jutsu. Moegi gaped when the fish suddenly came to life underneath the green glow, "A-Amazing." She muttered under her breath, while Sakura donged the fish on the side of the bucket before laying it the motionless creature out again.

"Before you leave today, I want to make sure you can at least perform the jutsu, that way you can improve in your own time."

Meanwhile...

On the other side of the shinobi world, deep within the darkness of a cave in the middle of a mountain, two sets of footsteps could be heard from within the cavern. The sunlight from outside the entrance could only stretch so far that within the rays a blond haired man and a much shorter person, could just be seen walking into the light.

Finally stepping out of the darkness revealed that both were wearing the traditional Akatsuki cloaks. The one on the left being Sasori within Hiruko, and standing beside him a disgruntled new member. Deidara. The ex-Iwa nin still had so many unanswered questions to what was going on within this group he had near involuntarily joined.

The introduction didn't help, especially being that he was humiliated and knocked out by that member who possessed the sharingan like Ronan did. There was even the astounding revelation that the same person who had apprehended him had also defeated Ronan.

Just who was that man was a question still left unanswered.

Placing on his straw hat to block out the strong sun, Deidara decided to address his 'partner' for answers. He had only been introduced to Sasori four odd days ago, however to Deidara's surprise there was just something about the bizarre person that he simply could respect, be it something akin to a passion or motive.

Deidara had yet to find out, "Hey, Sasori-sempai?"

"What is it Deidara?" Sasori growled in his usual always angered voice.

"Who was the one that brought me in?"

"You still have asked that same question each and every day. If you wish to know so bad then so be it. Uchiha Itachi is his name, satisfied now?"

'Itachi? So that's the bastards name, hmm.'

"Now why did you wish to know so badly?"

"No particular reason Sasori-sempai." The puppets emotionless eyes only met the artists stern and plotting blue orb for a brief moment, until Sasori dismissed the matter.

"Is there any further questions you wish to ask?"

"I have heaps of questions. What exactly are we doing with the jinkuriki? Why are we gathering them? What does this ring I am wearing do? Who is this Pein that Hidan person or whatever the hell he is spoke of, hmm?"

"I should have known better than to allow that fool to explain it to you. You may as well put it you know absolutely nothing at all. These past days have been a complete waste of time."

"Well yeah, hmm! I was in a mission to kill a Jinkuriki, and now here I am still doing the same thing but in a different way. Then I have to wear this ridiculous garment, and I'm meant to work with a group full of bastards that freak me the hell ou-!"

Deidara was thankful for his shinobi reflexes, as his head ducked in time to something metallic swiping over him, scraping at least a good foot deep within to the caverns stone wall. The source was a tail that resembled that of a scorpion popping out from behind Sasori's Akatsuki cloak.

"Not bad reflexes." Sasori growled, as the tail readied itself as if to impale Deidara on the slightest wrong move.

Deidara noted the purple like liquid dripping off the very end of the sharp stinger. The puppet master now turned his head towards him to give off that never ending glare, "Choose your words more wisely around me Deidara. There are two things I deeply hate in people, the first are those that do not know when to keep their mouths shut, and then there are those that make people wait. I don't need to ponder if you easily fit into both cases, these past few days are enough to be the solid judge for me. I am forced to work with you, therefore I shall answer your questions and cooperate with you to achieve this organisations goals. However if you press my patience, don't think I won't dispose of you and that naivety."

Deidara showed little care of the threat, 'Must have hit a nerve somewhere.'

"Hmmph, I guess those two conditions are liveable. It's pretty clear you want to be in charge here, hmm?" Watching as the tail disappeared under the cloak, Sasori started sliding forward, ignoring the sarcastic remark. Deidara followed by the puppet masters side as they began to walk down the hill.

After a minute of silence, Deidara asked his first question, "So who are you exactly, Sasori-sempai?"

"I am Sasori of the red sand. Former shinobi of Suna. I specialise in the art of puppetry, and its many forbidden secrets including human puppets."

"Hmm, and...this?" Deidara pointed at Sasori quizzically. He would admit he had never seen somebody with a shark like appearance before, but there was just something about Sasori that really seemed...well, like he was an inanimate object.

The puppet master didn't address Deidara's face, "This is my first human puppet creation, Hiruko."

"A puppet?"

Looking around as if to find someone, Deidara pondered, 'If this is just a puppet, then where-'

"I use Hiruko as an outer shell you could say."

"Oh..."

Following the puppet, Deidara asked away to try and get the general understanding with what it is he now had to do. Once Sasori had done so, Deidara had one more significant question to mind, "Do I have a choice in this?"

"There is only one person who has left Akatsuki outside of death, so to answer your question. No, you do not."

"That's bullshit!" Deidara barked, as his head snapped to burn anger at the puppet.

"Like hell I can't choose to do what I want, hmm! I have little interest in putting my art to use on such a petty organisation with a ridiculous goal."

"My, my, your new partner is quite the one to stir up a commotion Sasori-san." Came a voice in the trees above them. Deidara looked up to see it was Kisame, looking down at him with an irritating sharp teeth revealing smile.

It didn't take long for Deidara to verbally lash out at the swordsman, "And just what the hell are you?"

"Such lack of manners. I am Hoshigaki Kisame, Deidara-san." The Iwa-nin gritted his teeth at Kisame twisting his question to a 'who' instead of 'what'.

The shark faced man simply laughed at the scowl he was receiving, "Such an amusing lad, he cracks a tantrum like any other youth of today."

"That is one thing about the young that irritates me." Sasori growled, as Deidara's anger was only rising at the constant scrutinising he was receiving.

Deidara was about to blurt an insult, until Kisame looked at something ahead in the distance that appeared to have amused him, "They have returned at long last."

Lowering his vision to the ground, Deidara soon saw the last man he wanted to see at that moment. The Uchiha that had knocked him out. Itachi didn't appear to even have showed Deidara acknowledgement that the Iwa-nin was trying to stare him down. Kakuzu was following Itachi from close behind, "We have been given the reward for the bounty and taken it to a secure location for future use. Pein-san has ordered us to return to the scattered outposts to go back into hiding. This issue with the Kyuubi jinkuriki has brought too much attention to ourselves for the time being."

Jumping down, Kisame still had that smile on his face, "Quite fortunate you encountered one of your targets on your mission Kakuzu-san, he must have been worth something great?"

Kakuzu inwardly snickered at the swordsman, who was unaware that the target was his old associate, "That it was Kisame."

Deidara by this time still was glaring at Itachi, who now chose to meet the angry blue eyed shinobi, "Is there something the matter, Deidara-san?"

There was something about the careless way the Uchiha said that question that made Deidara's blood boil, "Who the hell do you think you are, hmm?"

"This one asks that sort of question a lot." Kisame muttered, as Deidara was far from through.

"You just out of the blue approach me, not even tell me who you are, and then have the nerve to lecture me about my patience before knocking me out?"

Itachi's bored filled sharingan eyes were really starting to get to Deidara, "There was little time for me to offer an explanation due to my mission to protect Naruto-kun. You seemed to be not the one to cooperate, so I had little choice."

"Like I care about what was going on for you, hmm! I don't even want to be part of this 'Akatsuki' anyway. I have no interest in any of this."

"Need I repeat myself to you Deidara?" Sasori interrupted, however before Deidara could reply back, Itachi's calm voice silenced him.

"How about we make a little proposition Deidara-san."

Deidara's perked eye showed his interest, "And what would that be?"

"If you can defeat me, then you have your freedom from Akatsuki without any fuss."

Deidara's eyes widened in surprise to the suggestion, but then he smirked in joy, "What an excellent idea."

"Itachi-san, you truly are being nasty to the poor lad by feeding his ego to then crush it." Kisame chuckled, already knowing what the outcome would be.

Holding no interest for what was happening, Kakuzu looked around, "Where is that moron?"

"Hidan is back in the cave still praying." Sasori replied, eying the cave in the distance they had left a while back.

"Tch. Great. I best go to him then, or he will not stop that crazed talk."

The fact the others were just ignoring Deidara was only making him grow even more frustrated, however he put that behind him. This was his chance to let this 'Itachi' understand just how impeccable his art truly was. He was not going to be humiliated a second time, not now when he had two fresh bags of clay on his belt. The bonus was he had a crowd watching to prove just how awe striking his talents were. Now the only obstacle were those pair or red eyes that looked at him in a dismissive like manner.

Jamming his hands into the bags to feel the clay, his grin showed his excitement, "This time you won't catch me off guard, hmm!"

To Sakura's dismay, she had to return to her room when Tsunade discovered she was training instead of resting. When Moegi left, Sakura kept the bucket of fish with her to continue practicing her dual jutsu exercise. It was just poor luck Tsunade was coming by for a check up sometime later in the day, and caught her red handed. Tsunade even went as far as to escort her back to her room to ensure that was where she was going.

"Shisho, I really know the way to my hospital room."

"Hmmph, sure you do."

Sliding open the door, Tsunade pointed into the room almost like a scolding parent, "In."

Dragging herself inside, Tsunade soon followed, placing the bucket down on the side of the door before closing it. Sakura stood there in the middle of the room, leaning against her IV's stand, waiting for Tsunade to unleash a mouthful on her.

Tsunade's expression however showed more so interest than scolding, "What were you doing exactly Sakura?"

"I know I should be-wait...could you repeat that please Tsunade-sama?"

Frowning, Tsunade crossed her arms and leaned against the door, "I said what were you doing exactly. Granted I am annoyed that you were doing the opposite of resting, however I now am curious."

Feeling a build up of pride, Sakura took a step forward, "...May I show you Shisho?"

Seeing Tsunade's eyes holding disagreement, Sakura tried to justify, "You are right here where you can supervise me. It's nothing crazy, and I really want to show you what I have been learning this past month."

The Godaime's brows rose in interest, as they soon dropped dismissively, "No."

Groaning, Sakura hung her head in defeat as the Godaime chuckled, "This is the difference between you and me. Although from what Jiraiya has told me, you have been quite busy this past month. I will be very interested to see what it is you have learnt when you are cleared and out of admittance."

"Hai." Sakura auto replied, sitting down on the bed in defeat.

Turning to leave, Tsunade's hand froze on the door for a moment, before she turned to Sakura again, "There has been some news. We have apprehended a man believed to be the ANBU leak."

"Y-You have?" Sakura needlessly repeated in shock to her master while shooting back up to her feet, while Tsunade obliged with a sharp nod.

"It is quite interesting. From Asuma's report, it would appear the leak went looking for them before engaging them in a fight. The real baffling part being no sane spy or shinobi would practically turn themselves in so to speak."

Sitting herself down once again, Sakura's hand was gripping the fine metal of her IV stand, "Have you been able to get any information out of them?"

"Unfortunately we haven't, and possibly never will."

"What do-...!"

Sakura's mind answered her own question, cutting her voice off in the process, 'He's dead...'

"Indeed so." Tsunade agreed with the rosettes muse.

Still pondering about this new development, Sakura found her masters gaze, "Have you told Naruto yet?"

"Yes."

"What did he say?"

"He was as confused as you and I are."

"You don't believe it makes sense either?"

"It is too reckless of a move to make. Any ANBU would know better than to attempt such a suicidal tactic, not to mention in the middle of a hidden village. There is also the bigger question to ask...why would they go up against our jounin and not..."

"Naruto..." Sakura concluded, while rubbing the back of her neck.

She thought she would be relieved by this news, however this questionable outcome left a lot more uncertainty than closure, "So what can be done then shisho?"

"We did try getting Yamanaka Inoichi to read their memory, but we have encountered yet another problem. The word he used to describe the persons mind was 'illegible'."

" 'illegible'?"

"'It's like all his memories have been blended together. They are meaningless, and without definition. I have seen many attempts to seal away a person's memories, but never one as self destructive as this. I'm surprised one with such a clouded and if I may use the term, 'messed up' mind could even keep their whereabouts concealed from us.'" Tsunade further clarified by quoting the Yamanaka.

Sakura's bafflement was only deepening by this, as her eyes found the bland ceiling, "Is there anything we at least have some clearance on Tsunade-sama? Is Naruto safe now?"

"As safe as he has always been I suppose. "

"What about Danzou?"

Finding standing tiresome, Tsunade placed the bucket down next to the door and walked over to seat herself next to her apprentice, "This has put us at a point with even less evidence to suspect his involvement I'm afraid. The body will be kept in status inside the morgue for any further investigation."

"Is that so?"

Sighing, Tsunade grinned, "Don't be so concerned. More importantly, it would appear your health is improving very well. Please form some chakra for me." Forming a seal, Sakura did as told, feeling the familiar presence of her chakra moulding, which Tsunade too noticed.

"Near full strength, very good ." She concluded.

"When am I clear then Shisho?"

"Hmm, with a good night's rest most likely tomorrow after your usual morning inspection. You should be more than fine without the IV for tonight. You'll start your antibiotics tomorrow."

Sakura didn't react to the long needle coming out, as instead her interest was entirely on 'Tomorrow?'. Tsunade chuckled at her apprentices surprise, "You have been eager to get out as soon as possible, yet now you have that 'so soon?' expression. Don't you have a date proposition to meet, hmm?"

Flushing at her master's clear tease, Sakura sheepishly nodded, "H-Hai, but I sort of decided to introduce them when I was cleared."

Knowing the more exact definition of 'them', Tsunade mouthed an 'oh', "Would you like me to accompany you tomorrow then?"

Sakura's surprise made Tsunade clarify, "You are concerned about what she will think of him, perhaps if I am with you I can straighten out any misconceptions. Most of the villagers believe that Naruto is the Kyuubi, when we both know the real answer to that. A hokage's word may help in defusing any possible situation."

Smiling at her master, Sakura replied, "I really appreciate that shisho, but-...I just somehow feel it will be alright."

"As you wish, but if you need some assistance, just ask."

"Thank you Tsunade-sama."

The Next Morning...

Walking out of her hospital room in her attire, Sakura took her time making her way down to the hospital's entrance. Today was the day. Her mother already knew she was returning home today, however Sakura insisted she would come home by herself. Or more truthfully, she wanted to think out once again how she was going to introduce Naruto to her mother.

It really was catching her off guard just how complicated this once simple thing was unfolding to be. Signing her name on a paper at the hospital desk and taking the plainly boxed medication, Sakura never even realised a very alert Naruto was calling out to her.

"H-Hey Sakura-chan! I heard from Ino you were leaving today." Naruto greeted, however there was a noticeable half a room distance between the two of them in the main hall. It was almost as if Naruto was ready to run in case Sakura had not forgiven him about 'losing' her novels.

Sakura appeared to have completely forgot about that, as she walked towards him with no signs of hostility, "Oh hey Naruto. Odd time for you to be up?"

Naruto still cautiously took a step or two back and chuckled nervously, "W-What you mean?"

"Come on, it's ten in the morning. You are NEVER up until at least past midday unless we have a mission."

Scratching his head sheepishly, Naruto lowered his guard, "W-Well Hehe, I guess today was different."

Softly smiling, Sakura shrugged it off, knowing the real reason, "Eh, I suppose you are right."

Walking out into the bright sunny day together, Sakura decided to cut straight to the point, "Oh, by the way Naruto-"

She paused to show her puzzlement when the blond jumped a near two feet away from the side in partial fear, "Y-Yes?"

Shaking it off with a perked eyebrow, Sakura continued, "I was going to say before we do anything, there is someone I want you to meet."

Realising now that Sakura must really have put the past behind them for now, he relaxed, "Really? Who?"

"My mum."

Naruto's eyes widened as he mouthed out her words before he nodded, "O-Oh! Sure thing." Naruto beamed, with a mixture of excitement and rising nerves already in his voice. Sakura completely forgot Naruto had his own reasons to be nervous, and dare she say the blond hadn't of even thought about their relationship coming into the equation just yet. He was still wary about her mother's opinion about just himself, so Sakura decided it would be best not to add more complications to the matter, avoiding pointing out another reason to be anxious.

Little words were spoken between them as they walked through the crowded streets, until Naruto's curiosity grew.

"So tell me about your mum Sakura-chan?"

"Well is there anything specific you want to know?"

"Umm, what does your mum do again, I think you said it once a long time ago?"

"Eh? No I didn't?"

Choosing to just answer, she began, "Well, back when my dad was around, mum really just spent most of her time working around the house and looking after me. However after he passed away, mum took up work at home to pay the bills. While I can afford to keep us going given my work at the hospital and my payments from missions, she really insists on still keeping up business."

Realising she hadn't clearly answered Naruto's question, Sakura added, "She has a home patisserie business."

"Huh? patisserie?"

Thinking about the meaning for a moment, Naruto's eyes showed his surprise, "You mean like she makes cakes and stuff like that?"

"Yes. My mum is a really good cook. Dad used to jest about her making a business out of it someday. I guess that kind of joke became a reality."

Sakura replied with a soft smile, while Naruto whistling in awe, "Whoa! She sounds even more awesome!"

Giggling, Sakura's soft smile widened, "E-Eh, I guess you can say that."

"Neh, but how is your mum such a great cook when you-"

"Choose your words very carefully, Uzumaki Naruto."

"...You-You also are just as good!-Haha!-Umm-the talent must run in the family."

After several minutes, Sakura decided to tackle the issue that they were both daunting on, "Just be yourself Naruto."

The blondes perplexed eyes fell on her as she still stared at the road, "My mother has never been one to judge someone before meeting them in person. Just act like the Naruto I know and it will all be fine."

Naruto was about to reply, however feeling lingering eyes on him made him cast a brief glance in the direction. Although time had changed now, Naruto felt the glances of fear or confusion directed towards him occasionally. The moment his eyes found the one villager, the persons eyes snapped straight back to the pathway.

Sakura did not miss the interaction, as her neutral gaze followed the walking away villager, 'Naruto has a different situation though from others. But-...'

Turning back to the road to continue their journey, Sakura's eyes found the ground, 'Mum's never been that judgemental. I mean she must know about the Kyuubi, and she always has been asking me about Naruto too. Tsunade-sama said that mum may have been trying to draw her own conclusion from me...I hope that is the verdict, Tsunade-sama.'

"Heh, I think you are the one who needs to be yourself too Sakura-chan."

Pausing in her steps, she shot a surprised look at the chuckling blond, "You look so freaked out, that's what I am saying."

Stunned for a moment that he had read her with precise accuracy again, she let out a uneasy chuckle, "Am I that obvious?" Now down the street of her home, both teens halted for a moment in their steps as if a sudden force of hesitance met them, before continuing at a noticeably slower pace.

Naruto had been down this street quite often back when he was a genin for numerous reasons. Sometimes a mission would come up by surprise and Kakashi gathered his team one-by-one, or other times his insistence to escorting Sakura home would bring him down here. Despite the amount of times he had been down this street, he had never stepped a foot inside Sakura's home, nor had he seen her mother.

To be truthful he hadn't even walked into Sasuke's home, but that was a very different story in itself. A part of him felt a little embarrassed that he knew so little about his teammate's family, but then again Sasuke had not seen Sakura's mother either if his memory served right.

Approaching the house that held this mystery, he studied it to see it had not changed in the slightest from what he remembered. Sakura's house was in line with all the others on the block, however its three stories in height unexpectedly appeared quite small in comparison to its neighbours. The building's outer walls was shaded a cream type of colour, littered with chip marks and cracks from both age and the time of Orochimaru's attack nearing three years ago. The building had unique qualities however to the others on the street. It had a small red veranda, shielding the two checker styled spotless windows, and the red door with a centred window between them. The third floor had two small balconies on each side, with enough space for possibly three people to stand and peer down either side of the street.

Lowering his gaze now at the ground near the left window, Naruto saw a fixed sign in place. His foot paused in mid air as he partially gaped at it. Sakura realised he had stopped two steps later and turned, "What is it Naruto?"

"H-How long has that sign been there?" Taking in a sharp breath abruptly, Sakura soon began to understand what was going on.

The very tip of her mouth was starting to perk up as she pointed to the three foot tall sign that read 'Haruno's Fine Desserts' on it, "You mean that?"

Her perk had already formed a grin when the question had ended, but Naruto still was stunned, "Y-Yes!"

Sakura immediately brought her hand to shield her giggling and beaming wide smile, "Haha! that has been there for years!"

Naruto almost fell over in pure disbelief. The one thing that had been linked to Sakura's family had been staring at him in the face all these years, and he had been none the wiser.

Sakura could only laugh harder, as the red in the face blond looked elsewhere, "It's not that funny!"

"Im-I'm la-laughing at h-how stupid you a-are baka!"

"Give me a break! that sign's so freaking small anybody could miss that!"

"Ha-ha-ha! Oh Naruto...you're unbelievable."

Perhaps it was the icebreaker needed, but all the heavy weight in the air appeared to have dimmed because of it, as Sakura waved her hand over her head dismissively, "Hurry up Naruto."

She still was giggling as he quickly caught up to her, "I knew all along, I was just testing-"

"Save it, you are only making yourself look worse." Still mumbling some attempt to sound smart, Naruto followed Sakura straight to the door, as her hand fell on its handle.

Pausing for a moment, she tilted her head back and smiled, "Ready?"

Returning his foxlike smile, Naruto nodded, "Dattebayo!"

Snickering, Sakura pulled open the door and ushered Naruto inside. Crossing the threshold brought a very strange sensation to Naruto. Perhaps it was due to his heightened anxiety and alertness, but even the small difference in temperature and lighting caught him off guard. The first thing he met before him was another door on the other side of the room which was similarly styled as the one he had just walked through.

The gust of wind from Sakura closing the door startled him, "We live in the rooms upstairs, while the first floor is our store." Sakura explained, while Naruto simply nodded and began to inspect the room around them. It was very easy to take in every detail due to the sunlight from the great windows behind him, illuminating the place quite effectively. Straight to his left was a wooden counter with a small pot plant on each side. Behind the counter was a board with what appeared to be a menu written across it in green handwriting. There certainly was a vast selection to choose from. That cherry blossom flower drawn in the boards upper right next to the name resembled something he had seen before. Following a pleasing scent that his nose picked up, Naruto now turned to the other part of the room. He was met with a black and orange toned curtain hanging over an entrance blocking his vision from above chest height, however from what he could see from below, there were great tables set up on the other side.

Sakura half heartedly hit his cheek when he childishly tilted his head to get a better view from underneath it, "What are you doing?"

The blond only sheepishly chuckled as she walked towards the curtain and looked back while opening it, "I will be a minute, don't wreck the place between now and then."

Sakura disappeared before she could see the blond pout, 'I'm not that destructive Sakura-chan!'

Brushing it off, Naruto walked over to look at the other thing he noticed on the right side of the room. Before the curtain was a large display cabinet filled with desserts. Naruto was in awe at their very appealing look, not to mention the stomach growl inducing smell they were emitting. Looking now more finely next to each of the desserts, he noticed each had a small paper next to the with handwriting on them. Naruto guessed these were actually customers orders.

Naruto's gaze then fell on a box that looked identical to the one the nurse offered him in the hospital a few days ago.

'Nee-chan got those Ohagi from here! Sakura-chan's mum is a freaking amazing cook then!' Hearing voices now, Naruto turned his head a little too fast for comfort towards the curtain. One he knew was Sakura, yet the other voice also sounded like one he knew as well.

Now seeing a shadow emerge, Naruto gulped as his anxiety resurfaced, 'This is it...'

Seeing two pairs of feet now, Naruto found himself sharply breathing in air as the curtain shifted. Two surprised gasps were heard upon eye contact. Within the door frame stood Sakura, standing closely next to a woman around a head taller than her. The woman held as equally of a surprised expression as he did.

Naruto sighed in relief upon seeing it the woman was the same nurse from that time. No longer hidden as a blur, Naruto could see the brunette nurse had back length hair, and he noticed she was wearing the same outfit from that day, along with a stained white apron, "O-Oh it's just you. Hey nee-chan! I didn't know you got those great desserts from here. Do you work here as well or something?"

Sakura this time was the one to gasp, as her head was shooting back and forth, "Y-You've both met already?"

Naruto blinked, "Huh? What you talking about Sakura-chan? This is the nice nurse who works at the hospital..."

Sakura's eyes that practically read as a 'what the hell are you saying?' expression cut him abruptly off. Looking at the woman again, then back at Sakura, Naruto blinked yet again. Both Sakura and the woman's faces were freakishly alike, the only difference being the different stages of age between them. Naruto yet again froze, as his eyes were now bulging wide. He wasn't going to have a repeat of what happened a few moments ago with the sign he never really noticed, this was clearer than ever.

Naruto did not catch himself from doing his traditional means of showing his shock. Sakura's sweat dropped big as Naruto pointed with his index finger at the person next to her, "GAHHHH! YOU!"

'Naruto...So much for making a good first impression.' Sakura inwardly groaned, as Naruto continued his loud display, still pointing.

"Y-You're!..."

The woman finally lost her surprise and brought up her hand to cover her giggling mouth just like Sakura always did, "Hehe, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Uzumaki Naruto-san."

Finally letting his pointing finger drop, Naruto still was agape in shock, "U-Umm- good to meet you too, errmm-..."

Sakura literally mouthed out a curse in remembering she forgot to tell Naruto her mother's name, and quickly said it before it could get any more awkward, "Naruto, this is my mum, Haruno Kangimo."

"O-Oh, it's good to meet you too, Kangimo-neechan." Naruto corrected himself, while scratching the back of his head sheepishly.

Stepping forward, Sakura felt her mother rest a hand on her back, "You will have to forgive me Naruto-san, my daughter described you as being very short, I didn't know for certain it was you that time."

"Neh, no worr-hey wait, WHAT!"

Sakura felt herself shrink a little as both eyes were on her, "W-Well you were short-"

"I wasn't THAT short!"

"Alright Alright, maybe I exaggerated a bit."

"What else did you say about me?"

"Does that really matter right now Naruto?"

Sakura must have missed a step in her planning, since this was all going so wrong. When she told Naruto to be himself, perhaps she should have clarified a little finer as to what qualities of himself he should show. Sakura's mother let out a warm chuckle at their antics.

'So this is Uzumaki Naruto...'

Once Naruto and Sakura had calmed down, Kangimo insisted for Naruto to stay a while and offered him a drink in another room. Since the shop still needed to be monitored, they resorted to having a seat in the kitchen. Naruto had never seen so many kitchen utensils and trays full of uncooked food in his life. It made his apartment's 'kitchen' look like a pathetic imitation. If anything, this kitchen was the size of his apartment.

They were seated on stools within the kitchen, with Sakura sitting next to her mother, and Naruto sitting across from them. Returning focus to the conversation, to his surprise and relief, Kangimo was actually quite a kind person. They were talking about missions Sakura had told her mother about in the past initially. Somewhere in-between though, the conversation had changed to a topic Sakura was quite embarrassed about. "So yeah, when I first saw you I didn't think you and Sakura-chan were related. I always thought your hair would be pink too."

Sakura felt her vein pop, "So I have pink hair and my mum has brown. Big deal!"

"But Shikamaru and Choji's parents have the same hai-"

"Baka! do you know what genetics is?"

"Sakura, there is no need to be so rude to Naruto-san. Lots of people make the same mistake." Even though it was the lightest of scolds one could ever possibly receive, Sakura pouted.

"Mum!" she whined, while Naruto was in awe.

He probably had never seen someone scold Sakura before, so this was a first for him, and it for some reason was very amusing to watch.

Sipping her green tea, Kangimo lowered her cup onto the table, "We actually were confused at first Naruto-san, you should have seen my late husband's face when we saw a pink head emerge."

"MUM!"

Naruto was using all his willpower not to burst into tears of laughter at just how red in the face Sakura was.

Kangimo didn't appear bothered at her daughters dilemma, "We looked into it and found out my husband's grandmother had pink hair. It's quite humorous, Sakura at first didn't like it because it was different and she was picked on for it, now when we found this out she feels special about it."

Sakura just groaned into her hand as Naruto let a snicker escape, "Wow, I never knew that."

The amusement in that tone made Sakura shoot him a death glare, 'I don't care if my mum is saying this with no harm intended, use this against me Naruto, and I will make you pay.'

The blond seemed to have not registered it, as he happily drank his drink, "Oh well, I always thought Sakura-chan's hair and forehead was what makes her cute."

If Sakura's face could get any redder, steam would start to rise from her head. She didn't know what was worse, Naruto literally being his loud self, him ever so casually complimenting her as if it was fact, or her mother embarrassing the hell out of her.

"NARUT-"

Kangimo's soft laughter overruled Sakura's attempt to scold, "There is no need to be embarrassed Sakura. Naruto-san is only being nice and complimenting you."

Gaping, Sakura hung her embarrassed head while mumbling a 'yes' in defeat. Rubbing her daughters back, Kangimo let another chuckle out, "While she has many of my look's, Sakura's personality is quite a fair amount like my husband's. She also is quite self-conscious as you can tell Naruto-san."

Sakura bit her tongue and looked elsewhere as Naruto had a case of the giggles. Naruto always related Sakura's personality to Tsunade, but it was interesting to hear this discovery.

It was like witnessing a side of Sakura she always hid from them, and he was finding this unreal. Looking up at the clock on the wall, Kangimo stood up, "You will have to forgive me Naruto-san, but I have some deliveries to attend to."

"Those desserts outside?"

"Hai. I am sure we will meet again to discuss more another time."

"I will help you with that mum."

"Sakura, you just came out of hospital. You will do no such thing."

"But mum-"

"I'll do it."

Both eyes fell to Naruto, who finished his drink and stood up. Kangimo was surprised by the offer, "T-That's not necessary Naruto-san-"

"No it's cool Kangimo-neechan, I can do it in no time!" Naruto beamed, walking back into the front room.

Kangimo was about to protest, but Sakura rested a hand on her mother's arm, "Let him do it mum."

"But he's our gues-"

"Really mum, he won't listen anyway. That's just how he is."

Walking out with her mother still showing signs of disapproval, Sakura grinned, "Thanks for doing this Naruto."

After summoning several clones, Naruto replied, "It's really nothing Sakura-chan."

"They are already payed for Naruto, so just deliver them to the written addresses and then come back. They are quite delicate foods Naruto, so be extra careful with them."

"I know already, I'll be careful with them."

"Tch. Sure you'll be. You are paying for any replacements needing to be made if we get complaints."

"Sakura-chan!" he whined, while the latter laughed and muttered 'baka'.

Kangimo by this time was standing by the door watching, as Sakura opened the door to let the group of clones out and watched her daughter close the door with a smile and stare out the window. Sakura let out a heavy breath which fogged up the glass a little, 'Great. I've been humiliated, embarrassed, and Naruto made a lousy first impression...yet somehow I feel it went well. Have I lost my mind?'

"Naruto-san seems to be quite the interesting one."

Coming back to reality, Sakura span her head around to see her mother, "H-Hai. What do you think of him mum?" Sakura asked, mumbling out her question suddenly in angst. Her mother always was nice to anyone, however Sakura knew that her mother did that out of respect or to avoid confrontation. Sakura only saw her mother show anger very rarely to anybody, but Kangimo was very good at hiding her personal opinions of people.

The momentary silence between the two went by unbelievably long for Sakura, as Kangimo's smile softly widened, "He is very much like you told me about him." 'Is that a good thing or a bad thing?'

Sakura tried to hide her bafflement with a shrug, "Eh, that's Naruto."

Noticing her daughter's unease, Kangimo blinked, "Is something the matter?"

"N-No..."

"...I think he is a nice boy. Quite a lively one none the less, but it's truly suites him. He is very different from that Sasuke-san you used to talk about heaps."

Smiling wider, Kangimo continued, " I definitely see that cheeky side to him you also told me about. Looks like he drives you insane."

Sakura on impulse snorted, "More or less."

"Hmmph. Please let me know when he has come back."

"Wait mum." Stopping halfway from turning, Kangimo waited for her hesitant daughter to speak.

Nibbling her lower lip, Sakura walked over to her mother as she slowly spoke, "Mum...you do know about Naruto, don't you?"

Swallowing her hesitation, Sakura spilled it, "About the Kyuubi?"

Her mother's eyes widened a fraction, before closing, "I shouldn't be so surprised that you know about that. After all, you are his teammate."

"Does that mean?..." "

Yes. I do know. You shouldn't speak about that Sakura, it is forbidden-"

"Yes Yes I know that, but I want to know, are you-..."

'Are you just telling me what I hope to hear?'

"I still meant what I said." Sakura lightly gasped as her mother could see what was going on.

"I will confess Sakura, I have always been wary of Naruto-san. The stories I have heard, what I know from the past...I couldn't ignore such rumours, especially with you being close by to him in the academy. When you told me he was on your team, I grew very concerned. You may have been in more danger than I expected when you graduated."

"Mum..."

"...However, I had a unexpected visit from Sandaime-sama the next day."

"Sandaime-sama?" Sakura repeated.

That was the day when team 7 were put through Kakashi's test. Her mother nodded and lead them back into the kitchen to sit down.

Taking a sip of her green tea, Kangimo began, "Sandaime-sama must have expected me to be worried about your safety, since he brought up the topic over a hot drink. Sandaime-sama really knew what to say to calm me down, bless that man's kind soul. He first told me that Yondaime-sama's dying wish was for Naruto-san to be viewed as a hero. I knew this already, as everybody does, however this was not enough to put me at ease. So he asked me to do something."

Sakura waited in deep interest as her mother briefly paused, "He asked me to ignore what everybody else said about Naruto-san, and to find out for myself about him."

Sakura's jaw hung open, "S-So-"

"I asked what your opinions were about him. Since I never was given opportunity to meet him in person."

'Tsunade-sama was right.'

Smiling at her tea cup, Kangimo continued, "My first impressions you gave me was he was a trouble making attention seeker. Hehe, sounded like an ordinary rascal if anything. Then as time went by, you told me more about him. Like how he was very stubborn, and he had a very admirable quality to never know when to call it quits. Although you were very hesitant to use those words. While I was still sceptical of him after all this, when I saw him there waiting in your hospital room by the day...my worry for the Kyuubi has become an afterthought."

Putting down her drink again, Kangimo looked at her shocked daughters expression, "Y-You really...see Naruto for who he is?"

"Of course Sakura. I only wish I had met him sooner, it would have made things a lot less stressful." Sakura didn't know why she was smiling wide, but the wash over of relief was unprecedented.

Her mother caught the expression, "More importantly though Sakura, I want you to answer my question."

"Yes?"

"How long have you had feeling for Naruto-san?"

Sakura literally fell out of her chair in surprise, "W-WHAT? H-HOW-"

Kangimo lightly laughed while standing to offer a hand, "Remember who I am. I am your mother Sakura. Whenever you are hiding something from me, I will always know, and even have some idea as to what it is. More importantly though, I have seen how you interact with boys. I have never seen you be yourself so carefree and relaxed with someone, not even around Ino-chan. I hope you don't call him that rude name all the time as well, that is not how a lady should act."

Sakura was several seconds lagged behind in time before she took her mother's offering hand and stood on her two shaky feet, "I-I see."

"Well?"

"U-Umm...I don't know mum."

Once Itachi's conflict with Deidara was concluded, Kisame and Itachi departed to follow Pein's orders. They had been travelling nonstop since that battle the other day, however they had only just started their journey. It would appear neither were in a rush, as they were walking as if nothing was a bother to either member.

Kisame still was baring that shark teethed smile from well over a day ago now, "That was a very cruel trick you pulled on Deidara-san the other day, Itachi-san."

The Uchiha never showed acknowledgement as he idly responded, "Deidara-san was flooded with emotions. It was his own fault for allowing himself to fall victim to my genjutsu once again."

The swordsman cackled, "His expression though was priceless! You turned his own trap against him. Ahh, if only Sasori-san didn't warn Deidara-san to stop...I think Deidara-san is going to hold a grudge against you for a very long time."

Itachi didn't give a response to Kisame's statement, which Itachi's partner long was used to receiving. Kisame decided to start up another topic, "So what of our loudmouthed target Itachi-san? Is he still like he was last time?"

"Naruto-kun appears to have learnt quite a bit from his tutorage with the toad sannin. It would appear the sannin has taught him to utilize the power of the Kyuubi."

"Like what he tried in the hotel a while back? Doesn't sound like it will be any concern for us in that area. Samehada will just enjoy devouring his chakra if that's his main method of fighting."

"Do not underestimate him, I've witnessed some new jutsu we haven't seen from him previously."

"Oh?"

"Naruto-kun has learnt suiton element jutsu. Possibly due to his large chakra pool, it appeared his jutsu was quite impressively powerful."

Kisame blurted in laughter once Itachi had finished, "These leaf shinobi learning all my villages jutsu that we are known for. Ever so amusing. Rest assured, there is no way that brat can top me at my own forte Itachi-san." Yet again Itachi did not reply to his partner, nor show any reaction to Kisame's jest.

Calming himself, Kisame coolly added, "I'm sure even if somehow the Kyuubi jinkuriki became powerful you have thought of a way to better him anyways Itachi-san." This caused Itachi to meet the shark's eye with a hint of curiosity present.

The swordsman shrugged, "It just is how you are Itachi-san. Or are you saying you haven't considered another way?"

Contemplating for a brief moment, a fresh image from his mind flickered over Itachi's calm sharingan eyes. The image was of something he had witnessed after his first encounter with Naruto and Sakura. This small memory alone was so welcoming to exploit against the blond it could allow Itachi to apprehend Naruto possibly without even needing a conflict. Itachi from his training knew he would have to be a fool to have not considered this as a means of leverage. It was the memory of his bunshin that had seen Naruto and Sakura kissing, which he had still kept to himself so far.

"Hehe. You already have an option in consideration it would seem Itachi-san, that's very much like you indeed."

The Uchiha did not react to his partners observation, as his lips slowly parted, "..."

Sakura had pictured this whole explanation thing to be much worse than she had anticipated. From what seemed to be occurring a lot today, it was refreshing to feel this wasn't going the worst possible way she pictured. Sakura decided to be honest and told her mother everything, even where her and Naruto stood now.

Kangimo exhaled at the end of Sakura's explanation as she leaned back in the seat to stare at the ceiling, "Oh dear...you really are like your father." Biting her lower lip, Sakura waited for her mother to process everything.

Kangimo finally spoke after a minute's pause, "You always have been strong about things, just like he was. Also just like him, you always speak your mind and express your feelings on things with such a demanding presence."

"If you are saying I've done something wrong then just say it."

"No, that is not what I am saying. It's just rather frightening to see you are maturing so much and ever so abruptly. Ino-chan's parents aren't caught off guard to this because that is how they have been brought up. I however, have not been."

"Mum..."

Kangimo grinned, "It's worrisome enough that you are in danger by the day with your shinobi career. Now I have to worry about my daughter in a relationship."

Sakura didn't know what to say as her mother stood up, but she followed. Sakura on reflex reacted to her mother's embrace, "You are growing up really fast Sakura, just don't grow up too fast."

"D-Does that mean?"

"I am still sceptical of Naruto-san now."

Pulling out of the hug, her mother looked down to see Sakura's confused face, "What? You expect me to judge somebody I just met if I approve of him dating you?"

Chuckling, Kangimo sat back down and explained, "I can't just automatically trust anybody for something like that. I have to play the role of both the mum and the dad, remember? Naruto-san will have to prove himself to me."

"B-But-you said-"

"-What I said would be valid for a friend, not a boyfriend. Until I really know Naruto-san in person, I can't feel comfortable about this."

Sharply nodding, Sakura's eyes lingered in another direction. Why it meant to so much for her mother to accept Naruto about this bewildered her, but hearing Kangimo's verdict really hurt. "What do you mean by 'prove'?"

"That is something I'm afraid only time will tell."

"What does?..." Sakura stopped her efforts there, knowing her mother wasn't going to go into specifics either way.

Reading that her daughter had relented, Kangimo commented, "I didn't know my opinion was so important to you?"

Looking back, Sakura frowned, "Well of course I care what you think mum. I mean, you are my mother!"

"But you have gone against it in the past."

Groaning, Sakura's shoulders slumped, "This is different mum. "

This always was a discussion that would come up every now and then. Kangimo didn't want Sakura to become a shinobi, while the rosette firmly wanted to. Kangimo relented, however it was clear that concern after so many years still hadn't of lightened. Perhaps it was the reason why Sakura tried to keep a line between Kangimo and her shinobi career.

"May I just ask one question Sakura?"

Meeting her mother's calm emerald eye, Sakura waited, "Are you happy?"

The question brought a brief pause of surprise, but the rosette gave a smile to reinforce her answer, "I couldn't be any more happier, mum."

The gesture was returned, "That is the first thing I will always care about."

Hearing the sound of the door in the other room opening then closing, both women turned in the direction to hear the sound of a puffed out Naruto, "I'm back Sakura-chan, Kangimo-neechan!" he announced, while Sakura quickly turned to her mother.

"Please don't say anything to make it awkward or embarrass me."

"Why would I do such a thing?"

"You can't be serious, right?"

The curtain soon lifted as Naruto came jogging in. Sakura instantly formed a scowl at the cherry blossom patterned black box, as her hand rested on her hip, "What did you do?"

"I-ermm, dropped it."

"I told you not to be clumsy baka! did the customer complain?"

"Yeah, I said it was my fault that some of the cakes got damaged. Sorry, I'll pay for it."

"Unbelievable.

I'm surprised only one was returned."

"There is no need to crucify Naruto-san over a little accident."

Sakura could only pout as her mother walked beside her, "Please don't take what she says too seriously Naruto-san, she is only joking with you because she enjoys your reaction."

"Mum!" Naruto now was finding himself yet again struggling not to have an outburst of laughter.

To his own shock, he kept his composure very well, "Neh, I know she is only joking most of the time."

Ignoring the left eye twitching Sakura, Naruto continued, "I am really sorry though, here I'll pay for another."

'Ero-sennin gave me a tiny amount of my mission money the other day. He said something about I will need to be carrying money with me all the time...whatever Ero-sennin.'

"Nonsense, it was just a simple mistake."

Taking the box and setting it on the table, Kangimo lifted the lid to inspect, "A few Ohagi have broke. I will have to remake it again from scratch."

Taking out one of the broken cakes, Kangimo then passed the box still full of Ohagi to Naruto with a smile, "Consider this your payment for helping me Naruto-san."

You could have sworn Naruto forgot he was at fault about her needing to remake a new batch, "Thank you so much Kangimo-neechan!"

Sakura could only gape, "D-Don't reward him for making a mistake mum. He will only do it more often now."

She halted in her protest when Naruto offered her a cake without asking, which she just sighed in defeat at and took without further word. While collapsing onto the stool, Sakura's mind gave up, 'Why is nothing going smoothly for me today?'

It was approaching early afternoon now in Konoha, and a very happily satisfied blond walked out of the Haruno residence with Sakura. Both his hands were resting behind head in his traditional carefree like way.

It must have been the warm note he felt leaving the Haruno residence that were the cause to his grand smile, "I can't believe how amazing your mum is Sakura-chan!"

"I take it that means you like her?"

"You kidding? What's not to? She is so nice and even better, she make sweet desserts I could live off of."

"...Don't you see a little bit of an issue with the order your priorities are in?"

Sakura jested, while knowing there was a third bigger reason Naruto was so ecstatic. Her mother accepted him for who he was, and the kunoichi guessed Naruto worked that out for himself.

Deciding to be honest with Naruto, Sakura confessed, "I told mum about us Naruto."

His head casually glanced over to show his curiosity as his arms fell to his sides, "What did she say?"

Thinking for a moment what to say, Sakura grinned, "She said she doesn't mind. I think she was just a little concerned, but really, she has always been a bit of a worrywart."

"I see. Is it me that's the problem?"

"No, well at least not you specifically. It's just that she barely knows you, and we're well you know, together. She wants to get to know you more I think."

"That's all?"

"Well...I really am not sure, that is just my guess." Naruto nodded while he guessed he could understand the cause of Kangimo's concern.

Perhaps this was just another example of what the care of a parent brings, "Wow, your mum really looks out for you Sakura-chan."

Looking elsewhere, Sakura nodded, 'She didn't used to be that way, so worried about everything I do. I guess it's because I'm all that is left she doesn't want anything to happen to me. Mum...'

Sensing Sakura had gone quiet, Naruto looked over, "Sakura-chan?"

Shaking her head clear, she gave a grin, "Sorry-what were you saying?"

Blinking a couple of times, Naruto brushed it off," I guess this means I will have to hang around your mum more often."

Sakura rolled her eyes, "Oh please, I can already see what is going on inside that head of yours. You just want her food."

"That's just a great bonus."

"No, that's called being an opportunist yet again. I'm sure she will know your ways soon enough." Paying attention to where they were going, Sakura soon was met with the ever so familiar ramen stand of Ichiraku's down the street.

Her eyes narrowed as they met sheepish blue eyes who caught up to her sudden realisation, "I should have known better."

Scratching his cheek, Naruto chuckled, "Well you did say we'd eat at Ichiraku's when you got out."

"That I did, but Naruto, we just ate freaking desserts."

"...So?"

"'So'? Oh never mind."

Finding his feet interesting, Naruto idly scrapped the dust off his sandal, "Well if you don't want to eat Ichiraku's, that's fine. We can eat another time if you want."

Sakura perked an eyebrow , "I said we would eat at Ichiraku's as a date, and that's exactly what we are doing. I've been looking forward to this since I woke up in the hospital."

Naruto's bashful like appearance disappeared to joy as he almost skipped towards the place he always visited, "Sweet!- I mean- well let's hurry then, I'm starving for ramen!"

Shaking her head in deep amusement at his joy, she followed, not even bothered to continue her debate on the fact he had just ate.

When they got to the blinds, Naruto did something she never expected. He lifted the blind up and stood to the side as if to prompt for her to walk in first. The gesture made her on impulse giggle, earning the blondes blank and growing embarrassed expression. Waving it off and muttering 'thanks' she walked in to be greeted to the scent Naruto usually carried around him in full force. She noticed the ramen bar was unoccupied before seating herself down on the stool. Naruto didn't even get a chance to sit before he was greeted by the owners.

"Good day to you Naruto-kun! we were beginning to grow concerned we hadn't seen you today. Great to see you as well Sakura-san, I hope you are feeling much better now." Ayame beamed with a cheerful sparkle in her eye. Sakura couldn't help but find it comical that Ichiraku always expected Naruto at least once a day, however she kept that muse to herself.

Soon the old man Teuchi revealed himself with a similar welcoming note, "I knew my favourite customer would arrive sooner or later. I already have several servings of noodles cooking."

'Wow...Naruto so makes this place hit breakeven every time he visits.'

Sakura mentally noted to something she theorised long ago. It definitely was true.

Believing Naruto already had his order in check, Teuchi turned his attention to Sakura, "And it is so great to see you're much better. Your illness unfortunately hurt me as well."

Sakura blinked as Teuchi enlightened her, "The moment I heard Naruto was back I premade his usual grand amount of servings. To my shock he didn't visit us for at least three days straight."

Sakura eyed the blond who was sheepishly looking elsewhere and grinned, "Hehe, I am sorry to have caused trouble for you."

"Heavens no, no need to apologise. What's important is you're in good health now."

"Thank you Teuchi-san, Ayame-san."

"Now what will you be having this afternoo-"

"Ermm-mind if I just jump in Jiji? I'm kind of wanting to get something different."

Naruto nervously mumbled. The keeper mouthed out 'different?' but returned his cheerful composure, "Most certainly. What would my favourite customer like to order instead? Whatever it is, I hope it caters for the amount I've prepared."

Sheepishly scratching the back of his head, Naruto answered while looking at the similarly sheepish Sakura for approval, "Well not exactly, but we would like to order the-hehe- the-" It seemed both keepers had got the message loud and clear before Naruto could finish his stumbled sentence.

Already Ayame's lips had parted to mouth 'awww', while her father gladly answered for the blond, "One couple's special hey? Absolutely. What flavour would you both like?"

"Miso pork!"

"Shio ramen please."

Both teens looked at each other as Ayame poorly attempted to suppress her laughter. After a brief calm stare off, Naruto turned with a grin, "Shio ramen it is thanks jij-"

He was unexpectedly cut short by a half hearted backhand on the back of his head, "Miso pork is perfectly fine Teuchi-san, thank you."

She insisted, as Teuchi and Ayame spun around and got to work. The blond met her smile with question, "I thought you said you didn't like-"

"That was you who said that baka. I can handle spicy foods every now and then, especially for such an occasion."

"But I thought you only ate Shio ramen?"

Sakura smile perked, "And I distinctly remember you saying that vegetables with ramen was 'gross'?"

Naruto opened his mouth to speak, but only air came out, as he looked away to hide his blush that Sakura was laughing at.

'I'm sure one eating can't hurt that much. That's so sweet to see that he was going to eat ramen full of vegetables just because he knew that's what I liked.' She mused happily.

Her curiosity grew as they waited, "'Couple's special?'"

Yet again scratching his cheek with that sheepish grin, the blond explained, "It is this huge ramen bowl that we share."

Sakura snorted half way through the explanation, "Oh boy, I should have known yet again. This is that question I asked you back in swamp country about a romantic occasion."

"Y-Yeah."

"How is that romantic Naruto?"

Teuchi's ears perked up and he span around to hold a defensive frown. Not being a part of the conversation be damned, his reputation was being questioned, "What is not romantic about sharing a grand bowl of such immaculately cooked ramen with a special person?"

Sakura waved her hands as if to issue she meant no offense, "Nothing at all Teuchi-san, it is just well...different."

"Precisely! different means it won't be something bland and boring. It will be something fresh that you will always remember both from my magnificent dish, and the special someone you shared it with. " She had to admit she had little disagreement to that, as the feeling satisfied Teuchi returned focus to his cooking.

Turning back to Naruto, she shrugged, "I guess different can be a fun thing."

Hearing the sound of the blind lifting made both teens heads turn to meet a scarred face that Naruto instantly gaped in cheerful surprise at, "Iruka-sensei!"

The chuunin at first gaped in his own display of surprise, before grinning and sitting on the stool next to Naruto, "Great to see you again Naruto, it has been such a long time. Nice to see you as well Sakura, I hope you are much better."

"You too Iruka-sensei, and I am feeling fine now, thanks." Sakura replied, as Iruka scrutinised the blonde's appearance.

"My, you sure have changed Naruto. Jiraiya-sama's training must have been very full on for you?"

"Ero-sennin is crazy with how hard he pushed me Iruka-sensei. The forehead protector you gave me even broke, and I had to get an outfit change as well."

"Hmm, but I'm sure that vigorous training has made you strong and wise? You sure look that way at least."

Before Naruto could say anything, Sakura just had to have her own say, "Looks can be very deceiving Iruka-sensei. His looks is pretty much all that has changed."

"Wha-? Sakura-chan!"

The chuunin snickered to the loud whine, "So I see."

Deciding to correct herself from her jest, Sakura added, "He actually has changed quite an amazing amount Iruka-sensei, even you will be shocked. He is still the little hair pulling prankster you remember though."

"It's Naruto of course, I'm always shocked with how amazing he progresses in so little time."

"Hey I'm right here you know!"

"Neh Iruka-sensei, aren't you playing favourites a bit?" The chuunin had to laugh at the slight hurt present in Sakura's question.

"You have your own impressive leaps as well Sakura, as do all of my students." Satisfied with that, Sakura grinned at the table in pride.

Iruka was long used to his past students seeking acknowledgement from him, so Sakura's behaviour always amused him. Meanwhile, Naruto tried to bring himself back in the conversation.

"So what's been happening Iruka-sensei?"

"Very little unfortunately. Just another wave of new students at the academy, and to my relief none I have to pull my hair out about just yet. More importantly though, it sounds like you have had much going on recently?"

Sakura's head turned in interest as the blonde's grin partially faded, "That's one hell of an easy way to go about saying it sensei. Did Kakashi-sensei tell you?"

"As much as he was willing to tell."

'S-ranked shinobi after you yet you survived alone is unbelievable. As I expected no doubt from you, Naruto.' The chuunin mused, while Naruto was looking at something in front of him.

"It's probably nothing though from what will happen sooner or later sensei."

Sensing more was coming, both Sakura and Iruka stared at the blond who was still looking to something in front that clearly to him was more than just Ichiraku's menu. Eventually his eyes fell to his opened hand as if it was telling him something, "I learnt so much from this entire thing, it's really freaky. I know now that I have come a long way, but by far not enough. Heck, Gaara did the one thing I dream to do in all this time I've been training. "

Both his fight with Sasuke and Itachi flickered over his focussed blue eyes as his hand formed a firm fist, "I still have a long way to go until I am strong enough to earn the title of hokage, and to save Sasuke together with Sakura-chan. Ero-sennin's training and this mission is just the beginning Iruka-sensei."

Sakura simply smiled in pride, while Iruka was stunned in pure awe. Eventually, he fixed himself to smile in pride as well, "You've really grown, Naruto."

Shooting his fox smile, Naruto bashfully scratched his head as Sakura continued to smile wide, "That he sure has, Iruka-sensei."

Hearing the sound of footsteps up front, Naruto and Sakura turned their heads as Teuchi lowered the bowl that made a little 'thump' as it touched down on the bar. Sakura gawked at the size of this huge ramen bowl. It's ceramic white colour truly masked just how big it was very well.

Peering into the steam flying hot bowl was easily a serving that three people would eat. Something told her she severely underestimated just how much harm 'one sitting' would do to her figure.

Iruka shook his head in disapproval at Naruto, "Really Naruto, what are you doing? You should stick to normal ramen servings. Just because you can go through lord knows how many ramen bowls does not mean you should step up the serving size to those."

Iruka clearly hadn't made the connection yet. Naruto nervously chuckled, "E-Ermm well you see- it's not really for just-"

The sound of stool sliding over right next to him made him turn in surprise, as Sakura's hand slithered around his arm as she leaned over to smile with a blush, "Who says he is eating it alone Iruka-sensei?"

If it was possible for Iruka's eyes to widen any further, they may have popped out. His eyes shifting back and forth between the two was noticed clearly, as he began to laugh.

"Is that so Sakura? Well forgive me for jumping to such a conclusion."

Naruto was still stunned by the rosettes action, as Sakura just gave a teeth revealing smile, "Will you be having your usual Iruka?"

"No no Teuchi, sorry, but I feel I will spoil the mood if I stick around."

Turning to leave, Iruka looked back with a wide grin, "You both enjoy your meal."

"Thanks Iruka-sensei." Sakura replied, while Naruto was a bit delayed to everything he couldn't even bid his farewells.

Alone again, Sakura raised her hand that was resting on top of his to grab and break apart a pair of chopsticks. While she was doing all this, Naruto still was just staring in shock.

Snickering, Sakura offered a broken apart pair of chopsticks, "Something wrong Naruto?"

It was as if that question had flicked a switch, as his shock exploded to a grand smile full of bliss, "N-No!" He beamed, while taking the pair of chopsticks and happily declaring, "Itadakimasu!"

Giggling, Sakura raised her own chopsticks, "Itadakimasu, Naruto."

AN: A very NaruxSaku'ish chapter since it's been a little laxed these past few intense chapters, I hope you enjoyed it. (I actually didn't realize the whole 'lady and the tramp' setting with the ramen bowl I sort of did until my sister laughingly pointed it out to me before submission...BAHH) [Disclaimer: I don't own or have any affiliation at all to Walt Disney Studios :D]

And now here we go (I actually am going to explain my entire thought process below, you can choose to skip the semi large chunk starting in bold below if it's too boring :) )

Sakura's mother ~ This has possibly been the most complicated character I've ever tried to create in anything i have done. Possible large exaggeration, but it has been something on my mind ever since Sakura's mother was brought up in my story now quite some time ago. The biggest issue being its a character we literally know nothing about, yet we all have our own impression on the type of person she may be if we are interested. I spoke to my friends that watch and read Naruto with me, and found we all had our own ideas on the topic. Perhaps her parents are shinobi, maybe the mother and father are separated, maybe they own a business like Ino's family does.

Well as you have read you know what my own impression is of Sakura's parents, so naturally that is what I have chosen to adapt. Now the home chief business you may have perked an eyebrow going 'what on earth', so I will explain what lead me to this. The manga has never given us anything to take in to try and form a picture, however the anime has in the lightest of ways. [True Sakura is not the main 'main' character (she still is a main), but why we know so much about even Ino and Choji's father over Sakura's still confuses me despite my logic i stated way back.] Now I will point to the episode we see the outside of Sakura's home (Episode 83), we see Sakura cleaning a sign that is outside her home (you can see that sign indeed is in front of her home in a later scene around ten seconds later).

Then we see these Ohagi in a professional looking box that her mother is asking for Sakura to take to Ino's place. The village has been partly destroyed, and many are trying to repair the damage. If Sakura's mother was a shinobi she wouldn't be baking Ohagi, she would out putting her training to use in helping. However then she reminds Sakura that everybody is busy, which to me implies this is Sakura's mothers way of doing her part in helping. Now let's be honest, who doesn't love eating something wonderful after working hard for hours on end?

The Manga never showed this scene, so you may look at it as 'filler', however i have a doubt we will ever know the true identity of Sakura's parents from the Manga's point of view(Then next chapter just for me, Kishi makes me eat my own words :P). And that is why I believe her mother being a home patisserie makes sense to me, and when i passed this idea over to my friend he actually said 'hey they actually adds up' which helped in me committing it.

That was just one obstacle, the next was just the type of person Sakura's mother is, and what exactly was the relationship like between Sakura and her mum. We know Sakura's mother does remind her daughter about chores, manners, and shows interest in what she does (somehow I got that way out there impression from one line of dialog for each but anyhow). So basically, your standard border layout for any responsible mother...not helpful to create a character from :) the end result lead to the type of person I hope I portrayed correctly. A typical kind and caring mother, who like any parent is concerned for their only child's well being in a world full of conflict and war.

Finally, there was the final and possibly the most important factor in all of this, how would this person treat Naruto with this kind of personality. Just as Eagleman stated in his review, it doesn't realistically make sense for one of the older generation to just blindly like Naruto without knowing or understanding the truth. A Person of Kangimo's character to me would be one that would instantly be worried about Sakura and wary of this boy she had heard so many rumors about. It would take somebody as significant as the Sandaime to at least give assurance that Sakura was not in any mortal danger being around Naruto based on rumors. This would lead to a more neutral and warming first meeting than expected, but it would still have that uncertainty to it lingering in the shadows.

And just a little trivia on her name. Kangimo is one of the alternate Japanese spellings for Kariteimo, the Japanese Buddhist protector of children and easy child birth.

With all that in mind, that is what has lead me to the character Haruno Kangimo.

I really hope I did not screw this up, and I eagerly await to hear your opinions about Sakura's mother.

END OF CHUNK

I will just bring this point up because i just know somebody will. There is a reason why I have been so bold as to introduce a character at pretty much the very end on the horizon...but that is all I shall say on the matter.

I will be VERY eagerly waiting for your feedback and critiques on this chapter, to my surprise I'm actually even more nervous than when I wrote Sakura and Naruto kissing for the first time.

Now this time, I can safely say that the next chapter WILL be the epilogue unless I really have missed something.