An: Sorry it's been so long since an update, but I'm afraid almost all my free time has disappeared. The next few months will be extremely busy for me so updates will be rather few and far between. But I'm shooting for the next chapter to be out in a month to a month in a half from this one. Again thanks for all the reviews as always, your humble author S. o. t. A.

Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto and I'm doing this for fun not profit

Chapter 14: Sharing is Caring

Tayuya watched Kyo as he prepared a fire for the night. They were about a day away from entering the Land of Rain and decided they would cross the border during the day. Despite being alone with him for several days she had been unable to brooch the subject of his true identity or the idea of starting a relationship. The first roadblock was Sakura, although they didn't seem to be any closer than they had been before women's intuition told her there was something going on. It related to the way the pink-haired girl stared at him the few times that they had been together with Tayuya around. Which was that the longing that had been there before seemed to be gone, of course it could simply be that they had spent almost two months alone together and had simply grown sick of each other's company. But Tayuya suspected that wasn't the case.

However since they hadn't changed their habits during the day that meant they may be seeing each other at night. But the few times that she had tried to see if Naruto was stepping out at night, he had always been at his apartment. The first time she had tried the mercenary had invited her in and they had exchanged war stories over tea.

As the fire began to burn, Tayuya watched Naruto stand and stretch his back. She opened her mouth to say something, but swallowed it back down as she thought of the next difficulty she would have to overcome, which was her own involvement in the defection of Sasuke. Despite or perhaps because of the way he treated her, which was with kindness and respect, she felt guilty about having taken part in the mission. Particularly due to the fact that according to the people who would talk to her about Naruto said he saw Sasuke as some sort of brother. A brother who probably became the monster many considered him to be now due to his time with Orochimaru.

How was she supposed to realistically start a relationship with a boy whose life she helped screw over? Feeling the familiar tinge of guilt that had appeared upon learning of her role in Naruto's becoming Kyo, she pulled her feet into her chest while staring into the fire. A part of her wished she had simply decided to pursue him without learning more about his past feeling it would be a lot easier.

Lost in thought as she was, she missed the first time Naruto called her name. Hearing him the second time she said, "Sorry…what?"

"Are you alright?" Naruto asked worried since the Red-head hadn't been her usual fiery self.

"Huh…Why do you ask?"

"Well you just seem sort of down about something," Naruto said.

"I…I'm fine…thanks," Tayuya replied cursing herself for being a coward.

By his body language Tayuya could tell he didn't buy it but his attention focused behind her causing her to tense as she felt the presence. But she relaxed upon recognizing it as Konan. Naruto asked the question that was on her mind which was, "What's going on Konan? What are you doing here?"

"I have orders that come directly from the Raikage. Which is, return to Five Element Village immediately," the former Akatsuki member said stepping into the light of the fire.

"Why? Did another of the dead jinchuriki pop up?" Tayuya asked, sort of thankful for anything that distracted her from her thoughts.

"Not yet, no," Konan said, "However he doesn't want one of his own S-class shinobi out of communication and behind enemy lines should they turn up."

Naruto cursed before saying, "Doesn't he realize that it would be best if we nip this now. For all we know the attack on the fort in Wind Country was his testing the resurrected Jinchuriki."

Konan spared a look at Tayuya before saying, "Perhaps you are the one not thinking clearly."

Naruto was about to protest but he respected Konan's opinion so stopped. Thinking about it, he had to admit she had a point. For all he knew, there was nothing to stop in Rain Country as he was heading there based off of the old file they had found in Blackwood's Prison. Furthermore, there was a chance that Madara knew about the file and the attack in Suna was to provoke just such a response. Nodding his head that the Raikage's order seemed to be the right thing to do, he said, "Very well. Order received, we'll head back in the morning."

Tayuya frowned since that would mean he was returning back to Her, but since it didn't appear that she was going to find the courage to talk to him about her burgeoning feelings any time soon resolved herself to heading back.

Madara smiled beneath his mask as he stared into the vacant eyes of the host of the two-tail cat. The scientist responsible for her return to the land of the living Dr. No Manchu was standing behind him as he inspected the woman. Sounding rather pleased with himself the man said, "I think the test went better than expected."

"Very true," Madara conceded, "however, your breakthrough came too late to be of any use in taking advantage of the Alliance's distraction in Water Country."

"Science cannot be rushed I'm afraid," Manchu said, "But with all the jinchuriki you possess in play. You shouldn't need Sky Country's attack on Water Country anymore."

"Perhaps Doctor. Now how long until the rest are up and about?"

"Three months, maybe more," the scientist replied.

When Madara turned to glare at him the man replied, "I'm afraid returning the Bijuu's chakra to them is the part that slows the process down. It took days for Akatsuki to pull it out. It'll take us double the time to put it back."

"Alright then," Madara said knowing that getting upset wouldn't make the process go any faster, "I'll let you get back to work."

Heading down to the lower level of the base in River Country he looked over the army of White Zetsu's. They were going to be his army should his Moon Eye plan have progressed as planned, but with the Kyuubi removed from the board for the moment they were going to be his force that wiped the Alliance from the face of the earth. After they had tired themselves out against his allies of course. Heading back up to the upper levels he began to formalize a new strategy to utilize the resurrected jinchuriki.

Tayuya noticed that Naruto seemed pleased to be back in the Five Element village. Having a good idea why she bit her tongue as he asked her if she was alright noticing her angry look. Tayuya shook her head before telling him she would see him later.

Naruto shook his head noticing the still slightly peeved look on her face as she walked away. He had noticed that her mood seemed to drop the closer they got to the village. He wondered if there was someone here giving her troubles about her past allegiances. Vowing to get to the bottom of it later, he headed to the Raikage's office to report in.

After arriving at the tower he waited outside the Kage's office a few moments before being admitted. As soon as he entered the Kage said, "I know you may be upset Kyo…"

"Don't worry sir, I understand," Naruto replied, "The information was old and we can't be sure that the jinchuriki are still in Rain. But why did you call me back?"

"Well with Madara seemingly able to bring the dead back to life, he may decide to unleash them," the Raikage said standing. "I'll need you here on standby in case that happens."

"What about the Jinchuriki? She was one of yours wasn't she?"

"Yes, and while we will do all that we can to find out what happened to her, if she has indeed been resurrected. Now is not the time for rash action."

"Understood," Naruto said, "What is the plan for the immediate future then?"

"For now, stay close," the Raikage said, "I'm sure before too long you'll be busy again."

Leaving the office Naruto decided to get a little training in confident that the next battle would be sooner than he wished.

Sakura smiled at few of the nurses she worked with as she searched the cafeteria. Spotting Naruto as he sat with Konan and Tayuya she decided to join them. Naruto had been back in the village for a week and she had enjoyed lunch with him almost every day. Granted it bothered her that she had to pretend to be an acquaintance of his, which most assumed was due to their time trapped together, but she considered it a small price to pay.

Ignoring the glare that Tayuya sent her as she sat down, she said, "Hello everyone."

As the others returned her greeting, she took her seat saying, "Kyo, if your free later can we do some training later."

"Sure, Sakura," Naruto replied casually.

Tayuya frowned while looking away from the pair having heard how carefree and happy his tone had sounded. Standing abruptly she said, "I'm going to go get some air. I'll see you later Kyo."

Sakura frowned as Tayuya left due to the girl getting more and more hostile towards her. She wondered if it was due to her time alone with him on the island as she was pretty sure that Naruto and her had managed to keep their relationship discreet. However, considering that outside of Naruto and Konan everyone else avoided her may be behind her sudden anger at her, as she feared Sakura would steal him away.

Naruto for his part was about to go after her to find out what was bothering her, since Tayuya's mood continued to get worse and worse and he hoped to find a way to make her happy again. Standing as well Naruto said, "I'm going to do a little training with Tayuya," since that always made him feel slightly better when he was down.

Sakura nodded, knowing they'd see each other later and watched him leave. Konan smiled at the younger woman saying, "It would seem that you two have worked things out."

Sakura surprised at the topic of conversation mutely nodded. So the former Akatsuki calmly said, "Then I suppose congratulations are in order." Giving a cryptic smile the woman added, "A shame you didn't take part in that bet the other woman have going, I image you could make quite the killing."

Sakura blushed at the woman's innuendo that the two had taken their relationship that far even though they had. However she lost her teasing tone saying, "Poor Tayuya."

"What do you mean?"

"Surely you can see the reason she has become so distant and cold to you," Konan said before taking a sip of her tea.

Sakura thought for a moment before saying, "Isn't she simply upset that he's been spending some time with me."

Shaking her head Konan said, "That's a part of it I'm sure. But don't underestimate her intelligence. She no doubt sees that you and he are closer than before your time on the island. She also noticed how before he went out of his way to stay away from you."

"Are you saying she wants him for herself?"

"Is that so hard to imagine?" Konan said. "She was locked away and abandoned in prison. She is suddenly released and given a purpose. She owes both to one man. A man, who has taken her under his wing asking for nothing in return but her friendship."

Sakura simply stared down into her food before saying, "She loves him."

"Probably as much as she has loved anyone," Konan said watching the pink-haired girl.

"So what should I do?"

"That I can't answer for you," Konan said, "I merely thought you should be made aware."

"Can I ask you a question?" The blue-haired woman nodded so Sakura asked, "Why did you let him go?"

"Because he was never mine to begin with," Konan said standing.

She was about to walk away before Sakura asked, "But if he had been."

"I do care for him, but I do not love him," Konan replied after a moment of thought.

"I see," Sakura said.

To Konan it looked like Sakura was pulling into herself so Konan said while sitting back down, "A Ryo for your thoughts."

Smiling at the old age Sakura said, "Do you think it's possible for a person to love more than one person at a time?"

Konan watched the girl for a moment before saying, "This isn't about you and Sasuke is it?"

"No," Sakura said quickly, "It's just… I'm sure you've heard the saying, there are plenty of fish in the sea."

"Yes," Konan said calmly wondering what the girl was getting at.

"I guess it's just that for Tayuya, even if she did move on. For her, they'd never truly match up to all that Naruto is in her eyes," Sakura said having a decent idea of what Tayuya must be feeling at the moment having felt it herself after she thought Naruto died. Sakura felt a cold gaze settle on her and having felt it many times the past few weeks, didn't even need to search the room to know Hinata was staring at her. "Tayuya wouldn't be the only one either," Sakura thought to herself.

Standing herself, Sakura said, "Thanks Konan. You've given me a lot to think about."

Konan watched Sakura leave before her eyes settled on the angry Hyuuga girl that also watched the medic leave. When the Hyuuga's gaze returned to her all the anger seemed to have faded. Konan stood wondering what it was she had just seen, perhaps there were more people interested in Naruto then she had first thought. She supposed it wasn't truly her business, but she did admit that she was rather curious as to how it would turn out.

Hinata watched Sakura leave the mess hall glad that the happy go lucky attitude she often displayed seemed to be dampened by something. Feeling a set of eyes on her she noticed that Konan was staring at her. Despite her participating in the attack on her home and her almost being killed by Pain, Hinata didn't bear her any animosity in part due to Naruto forgiving her.

The nurses that Sakura had acknowledged before sitting at the mercenary's table began to gossip as soon as Sakura was out of the room. One of them said, "I telling you she's with the merc now. You can tell by that smug smile she sends everyone."

Hinata felt a small measure of satisfaction at the nurses words, mainly due to it meant that others weren't fooled by the pink-haired girl. However one of the nurses wasn't convinced saying, "Come off it. They don't act like a couple and she's simply happy not smug. Besides even if they are, what's it to you?"

"A few thousand Ryo," the first nurse said crossing her arms. "Besides you know they're together because she's acting all bubbly now. Before they were trapped together, she was always all depressed. She's got to be getting some from him."

"Well anyway if she is with him, why doesn't she simply say so?" the second nurse said.

A third joined the conversation saying, "It would stop some of the people from throwing themselves at him."

"Yeah, well…" the first nurse said obviously one of them, "Maybe they have to keep it a secret from everyone. He is world famous and if the enemy learned he was involved with someone then they may try to use her against him."

"That makes sense," the kinder nurse said, "so maybe we should stop talking about it."

But the first waved her concern off saying, "We're in the middle of our own forces. Who are you concerned would overhear us."

Hinata tuned the gossiping women out after that feeling her anger returning as she thought about how unfair it was. Sakura had simply moved on finding a new love after using Naruto to bring her precious Sasuke back. She felt her hands clench into painful fists that shook with her rage. Forcing herself to calm, she wondered just how true the rumors were. Was Sakura with Kyo in some sort of secret relationship? If true, she wondered how strong their relationship was. Was she simply using him as a place holder until Sasuke woke up? Granted, even then, she would undoubtedly be disappointed, as Hinata imaged that Sasuke would either be imprisoned or executed for his crimes.

But what if Sakura had truly moved on from the Uchiha? If anything that made her angrier, as it was too late for her and Naruto. Figuring that since Sakura's selfishness had deprived her of the one she loved, Hinata decided she would return the favor. Besides if Kyo had managed to steal Sakura's heart then perhaps he may be worthy of her own affections as well.

Shikamaru was going over some of the latest intelligence reports. He was bothered by the supposed return of the jinchuriki, although he felt it was rather premature to come to that conclusion just yet. Since all the footprint at the Suna fort proved, was that Madara was feeling confident enough in his control of the Bijuu to release them again.

Naturally that thought was less then pleasant, but was still somehow more comforting then the idea that Madara had somehow gained mastery over a jutsu that restored the dead to life. But not knowing what was needed to perform the jutsu was rather frustrating. After all, what if he decided to revive the members of Akatsuki that they had already taken care of, it would in a sense negate all the sacrifices of those who died to kill them. Asuma and Jiraiya being the most prevalent of those that came to Shikamaru's mind.

Standing from his desk, he stretched his back before going for a walk. As he moved through the tower that served as the villages headquarters he thought about Naruto's return to the village. It was rather obvious that he and Sakura had come to some sort of understanding as he wasn't avoiding her any longer. Also, the depression and sadness that had surrounded the pink-haired girl had all but disappeared. The final bit of evidence was that Naruto seemed content to remain in the village and considering that Shikamaru was convinced that the blonde was going through the ruse of being a mercenary to remain in the war really spoke to him about just how close they had become.

Another part of him wondered just when it was Naruto became the new Sasuke. Meaning, when was it that women began throwing themselves at Naruto much the same way the girls of the academy had at Sasuke? "It must be the mask," he said aloud not expecting an answer.

That was why he was surprised when he heard a voice behind him say, "What must be the mask?"

Spinning Shikamaru was surprised to see that the Raikage was standing behind him. "Uh…I was simply commenting on that bet that is going on among the kunoichi of the Alliance."

The Raikage chuckled saying, "I don't think Temari would be pleased to know you are dedicating that mind of yours to unraveling why he seems to be so popular with the ladies."

Shikamaru shivered a little imagining just how displeased Temari would be, before quickly saying, "I trust you'll keep that to yourself."

"Don't worry; I'd like you to remain in the world of the living a tad bit longer."

Shikamaru blew out a breath of relief. Wondering what the Kage was doing walking the tower he asked, "Were you looking for me sir?"

"No, I was simply a little restless and decided to take a stroll. I suppose you are in the same boat," the Raikage said beginning to continue his stroll.

Nodding and falling into step Shikamaru said, "Yeah, I feel uneasy about the destruction of the fortress in Suna."

"Indeed," the Raikage said, "Kyo seems to believe that Madara has resurrected the Jinchuriki."

"I'm not entirely convinced that he has," Shikamaru said.

"Agreed," the Raikage said, "I have a hard time imagining Yugito working for Madara. But according to the Mizukage, Madara does have the ability to control jinchuriki."

"I guess it must be easier to control a person then the Bijuu they contain," Shikamaru said after a moment.

"I would imagine so," the Raikage said remembering the other jinchuriki before his brother tamed his Bijuu.

Shikamaru wondering what was causing the Raikage's own restlessness asked, "So what is behind your own restlessness, sir?"

"Your Hokage," the Raikage replied.

"Really, how so?"

"He's requested I send Kyo into Rain Country to try and uncover the truth of whether the Jinchuriki are being resurrected or not," The Raikage said.

"I take it that you are thinking about it then despite your earlier desire to keep him close to the village," Shikamaru said lighting a cigarette.

"Yeah," the Raikage admitted, "but I admit it is due entirely to a selfish reasons."

"To see if Yugito can be saved," Shikamaru said flicking the edge of his cigarette.

"That's right, but I do wonder why it is men such as Gaara and now Kakashi are so keen to trust this mercenary," the Raikage said eyeing the young man

Shikamaru kept his cool not giving anything away saying, "Well he has done good work for both us and Suna. I suppose he just has one of those faces."

"Cute, regardless what do you think?"

"I think you should turn him loose sir," Shikamaru said, "He seems to have a knack for making life difficult for his enemies."

"Alright, draw up a mission plan and we'll see about implementing it when it's ready," the Raikage said before deciding to head back to his office, "Let me know when you are ready with it."

"Yes sir," Shikamaru said as the Raikage began walking away. He let a little smile appear on his face as he believed that if anyone could find out if the jinchuriki were in Rain it would be Naruto.

Naruto was eating in the cafeteria with Sakura and Tayuya trying to start a conversation. However, everyone that he managed to get started tended to end rather poorly or simply tapered off. It wasn't just Tayuya either, but Sakura seemed to be preoccupied by something as well. The past few days Naruto tried to drag it out of her, but Sakura would simply give him a smile and assure him she was fine.

Sighing, since he was running out of conversation topics and he didn't want to resort to talking about the weather he was almost glad for the loud crash the caused the mess hall to go suddenly quiet. That was until he saw the reason why, which was because Hinata had entered the hall wearing a dress that looked like it should be on some supermodel in the capital of Fire Country. Not on a woman in the middle of a village dedicated to fighting a war. Not that she didn't look stunning in it, seeing as it was a black dress made of quality silk which truly highlighted her pale skin.

Obviously, many of the men in the building thought so as well, as they openly gawked at her. This included the ninja that had called attention to her arrival, by his crashing into the table and spilling his tray, since he hadn't been watching where he was going. Hinata didn't seem to be aware of any of this as her gaze was set solely on him. Getting a bad feeling that his life was about to get more complicated, he was torn between running and staying. In the end he decided to stay, since it may cause questions to be asked if the mercenary Kyo appeared to be afraid of a lone Hyuuga in a very alluring dress. Plus, he knew his mask would block her vision.

He also admitted to himself that he felt guilty as she walked towards them. It was mostly due to his never truly talking to her about her confession during the fight with Pain. The truth of the reason why was because he didn't know what to say to her. He had been touched by her words, but hadn't been sure if he could return them as he had loved Sakura. Not sure what to do. He had taken the easy way out, and allowed himself to get swept up in his need to save Sasuke. As Hinata sensuously walked closer to him, he could sense the hackles of both Sakura and Tayuya rise as they began to glare at the approaching Hyuuga. Hoping that he wasn't sitting a ground zero of some huge blow up,he swallowed hard and waited to see what unfolded.

Sakura couldn't help the glare that she sent Hinata's way as the girl eyed Naruto. She wondered if it was partly due to the way the girl's eyes never left him, almost like she was ignoring her existence. But she also admitted it was a territorial thing as she knew there was only one reason why Hinata would be dressed like that while approaching Naruto, although Sakura didn't think the Hyuuga knew who Kyo was. Sakura was sure she had heard some of the rumors about how close Naruto and her had gotten during their time together, and was hoping to steal him away.

Sakura's glare softened as she realized why Hinata was planning to do that, which was because she blamed Sakura for Naruto's death. Sakura admitted she felt partly responsible for what Hinata had become in the time since Naruto and Sasuke last met. Mainly, since she had confessed her own feelings for the blonde directly after the Hyuuga had. Looking back on it now, Sakura believed the reason her confession to Naruto had sounded so false and rushed wasn't because she hadn't loved him. But, simply she hadn't been ready to admit that she was in love with him. Yamato had after all tried to tell her that he believed her feelings for Naruto were love, but instead of analyzing why he would believe that. She had instead pushed it aside, while trying to hold on to the feelings she had for Sasuke.

It had taken Hinata's confession during Pain's attack to cause Sakura to question her long held belief she loved Sasuke. Sai's telling her that she was causing Naruto pain also contributed to her confession, but the idea that somebody else may take Naruto away was the primary reason. She had simply gotten to use to his affection and didn't know what would happen if she lost that. An affection, she had never needed to truly take seriously, since nobody had set their sights on him, and therefore she could keep the status quo of her chasing Sasuke while Naruto chased her. But Hinata's confession had changed all that, as all the sudden she had to worry about whether or not Naruto would even be there for her the next day, or if he would move on to the girl that was quickly approaching. In a sense, Hinata's confession had been the catalyst that had forced her to choose. A choice that should Hinata learn that Kyo was Naruto and just how close the two were now, made the medic worry about what it would spur the woman commonly called the Ice Queen by the Alliances' shinobi to do.

Tayuya had turned to watch the Hyuuga bombshell as she approached and tried to keep her jealousy in check. She figured that the girl was simply another of the whores that was trying to win the bet about who could shack up with him first. To her, that meant the young woman wasn't a threat as generally if she couldn't send them packing, then Kyo would by politely refusing. However the small comfort that the thought brought her faded, as she directed her gaze at the young man in question. He appeared nervous, almost hesitant to confront the girl. Moving her gaze to Sakura, she could see a similar look to what she imagined was appearing on Naruto's face on the pink-haired girl's. That told her the three had a history together.

Returning her attention to the Hyuuga, she could see the girl had set her sights on Kyo, but the smug smile on her lips appeared slightly out of context on her gentle face. Almost like she was playing a part, judging by the rumors swirling about Sakura and Hinata, she guessed the Hyuuga was here for a little payback. But instead of fighting the pink-haired girl, she decided to hit her where it would truly hurt, her heart.

Hinata stopped right in front of her, so Tayuya said, "You on a mission as a whore or something? I'm sure if you are looking for customers there are plenty of eager takers someplace else."

The Hyuuga didn't even bother to look down on her as she said, "I'm sorry, what was that? I'm afraid I have a problem paying attention to trash that would serve Orochimaru."

Tayuya stood quickly saying, "I'll help you solve that problem by kicking your pale ass, bitch."

"Tayuya," Naruto said quickly causing the red-head to tense a little, afraid she had disappointed him by threatening a person he probably considered a friend. However, she was slightly relieved when Naruto said, "I'm going to have to ask you to apologize to my friend miss…"

"Hinata, please," the Hyuuga said sitting across from him, "and I'm sorry, it's just as I'm sure you're aware my village and the Sound do not exactly have a stellar relationship."

Tayuya was annoyed as the Hyuuga once again ignored her and hadn't really apologized, but let it slide as she retook her seat. Naruto seemed to notice that Hinata hadn't truly apologized also, but let it go before asking, "So what is it I can do for you?"

"Actually it's what I can do for you that is behind my visit," Hinata said her tone filled with an innuendo that caused several men listening in to cover their faces lest the nose-bleeds they got showed just what they hoped she would do for them.

Naruto was surprised, never figuring Hinata would be the type who would sleep with someone because of a bet, but he guessed a lot had probably changed in the time since his supposed death. A part of him was afraid he was the reason for her change in behavior. He was about to gently tell her that he wasn't interested in helping her win a bet, when she surprised him by saying, "I'm actually here to give you a warning."

"Oh and that would be?" Naruto asked surprised.

"You see, I've heard that you and Haruno here have gotten rather close as of late," Hinata said her tone turning to ice as she mentioned Sakura, "be careful around her. She's a snake that uses those close to her to further her own designs."

Naruto couldn't believe the hate that filled Hinata's voice as she spoke about Sakura, but he had experience with it before, having heard it in Sasuke's voice when he talked about Itachi. Never expecting to hear something like that from Hinata he whispered quietly, "Hinata…"

Sakura though, had a completely different reaction saying dangerously, "What did you just say?"

If Hinata was intimidated she didn't show it replying, "I said you are a snake that uses those around you. I believe you should understand why Haruno, or do you need me to spell it out for you?"

Sakura stood quickly glaring at Hinata saying, "Take that back."

Hinata stood glaring right back saying, "I will not. Don't tell me you are denying using Naruto's affections for you to try and bring your precious Sasuke back. Or that you are using Kyo here as a place keeper until the day your precious traitor wakes from his coma."

Sakura almost shouted that Kyo was Naruto wanting to verbally slap the girl with that knowledge. But realizing she was in the middle of a crowded Mess Hall simply said as calmly as possible, "I never used Naruto…"

"Oh really," Hinata said cutting her off, "So you didn't count on his feelings for you when you begged him for that promise of a lifetime. You didn't again count on those feeling when you lied to him and gave him that false confession where you tried to convince him you lov…"

Sakura snapped, slamming her fist into the table smashing it. Hinata leapt back assuming a fighting stance, but Sakura stood still breathing hard as she said, "Go to hell Hinata. I put up with a lot of shit since Naruto died…but where do you get off telling me what I felt for Naruto is fake."

"Because…"

"Shut up," Sakura snapped, "Yes I did care for Sasuke…but so did everyone my age, except for maybe you. But are you giving the others grief for moving on, like Ino, no. So get off my back or else."

"Or else what," Hinata said calmly, "You don't have Naruto to take any more lethal hits for you. Maybe if you hadn't been so selfish he would still be alive."

Naruto watched Hinata glare at Sakura and felt the guilt magnifying within him. It was his fault that Hinata was becoming more and more like Sasuke. By not talking to her about her feelings, his supposed death had left a hole behind that she was filling with hate. A hate that she was focusing on Sakura. He also realized that her coming up to him, had less to do with him, but those feelings for Sakura and the blame she put on her.

Hoping to diffuse the situation he stood between them saying, "Regardless of all that, perhaps here isn't the best place to hash this out."

Both girls seemed to realize they were making a scene so Hinata quickly said, "Very well, but please consider my warning. The world has already lost one great man because of her. I don't think it could survive losing another. But I'll be seeing you around Kyo." Calmly and composed, she turned and began walking out of the mess hall looking over her shoulder with a slight smile as if she had come to a decision.

Turning to Sakura, he wanted to say something comforting, but was afraid it would confirm the rumors that were surrounding him so remained silent. Whether or not Sakura cared was hard to say as she waited until the Hyuuga left before storming off in the opposite direct. Since she was using 'The Walk' he figured that tonight he'd have to do something really special to help her relax.

Tayuya, who had remained seated and had grabbed her tray before the table was smashed, finished the last of her meal and then with a pleased smile said, "That was great. A dinner and a show," while thinking to herself, "And if I'm lucky those two bitches will off each other, leaving Naruto all to me."

Naruto simply shook his head not finding the situation brewing all that amusing, especially since it seemed to be a direct result of his own inactions. Hoping a store that sold the bath salts that Sakura liked was nearby he said, "I'll see you later Tayuya. I have a few errands to run," while thinking, "and I have to find a way to solve this problem without anyone getting hurt.

Madara watched carefully as the remnants of Sky Country's fleet pulled into the Harbor of a port city in Iwa fearing they may suddenly turn on him. Watching the ships, he saw that almost none of them had escaped from the Water Country without taking some damage. As the largest ship pulled into the dock, he stepped back as a gangway from a hatch that had opened landed in front of him. Stepping out of the hatch was the woman he recognized as Yato's captain. In truth, he was surprised that she was here. As she had avoided him the few times he appeared on her ship to speak. He had been of the opinion that she planned to dissolve the alliance between Sky Country and him.

Two large shinobi followed her down before moving to either side of her as she reached the dock. She approached briskly and Madara found the heavy admiral's jacket that she wore from her shoulders fit her quite well. The captain's hat that had the sky country emblem bolted to the front of it completed the image. She stopped in front of him, eyeing the masked man with her remaining eye but remained silent.

Convinced she was waiting for him to speak, he said, "What an unexpected surprise, Admiral Nagisa. I was sorry to hear of Yato's death."

"I highly doubt that," Nagisa said her tone calm. However, her two bodyguards bristled slightly. Continuing she said, "But, that is besides the point. We are taking this port as our own; in return we shall continue to help you against the Alliance."

"I see, rather steep terms, considering your failure to take care of Kiri," Madara said relaxed.

Nagisa's eye narrowed, but she didn't lose her composure as she replied, "We failed to take Kiri but we distracted them long enough that you could run your experiments unhindered. Not to mention, you failed to open the second front as you promised allowing the Alliance to concentrate on us."

"You do have a valid point," Madara said after a moment, "It took us longer than expected to revive the jinchuriki. Very well, I agree to your terms…"

"Wait," Nagisa cut in, "there is one more."

Madara narrowed his eye behind his mask, but said, "What would that be?"

"I will be made a member of Akatsuki," Nagisa said her tone indicating it wasn't open for negotiation, "I will be included in all your plans for the future and what the endgame is."

"Why would you want that?"

"So that I can best prepare for turning the Land of Fire into a flaming cesspool of hell," Nagisa said her anger at the country and its shinobi village easy to hear.

Smiling beneath his mask Madara said, "Well then, welcome to Akatsuki." Handing her a piece of paper he said, "Meet me near these coordinates in several days and I'll explain everything then." Nagisa nodded her compliance, so he warped himself out of the village. Only to appear in the River Country lab were the jinchuriki were being revived. Smiling as the four-tail showed signs of life returning to his body he went in search of Doctor Manchu to find out how much longer it would be.

Hinata had developed her abilities to hide herself and her chakra signature from years of following Naruto around. While it may not have been necessary to do so since Naruto wasn't the most observant ninja around. Others were, so she didn't want them to tip him off and therefore come off as some crazy stalker. But it had proven useful in the past year, as even chakra sensors couldn't find her if she didn't want to be found.

That was why she was currently tailing Sakura since she wanted to find out just how close the pink haired girl and mercenary truly were, and while she didn't think Kyo would sense her didn't want to take any chances until it was necessary. Sakura had finished her shift at the hospital, but instead of going home began heading to one of the furthest training fields. Since it was so close to being dark most of them were empty.

However at the furthest training field she noticed a figure studying some papers in the dying light. As soon as Sakura appeared he stood, but got into a fighting stance. Sakura pouted a little saying, "Not even a kiss hello, huh?"

"Let's see if you can earn one," Kyo replied and to Hinata he sounded different, almost like he wasn't disguising his voice anymore, although the mask still distorted it some. But she found it somewhat familiar.

Sakura charged Kyo, who stood his ground, before catching Sakura's fist around the wrist. Flipping her, the pink-haired girl hit the ground, but rolled back to her feet. Sakura again came in at Kyo, who blocked the punches that Sakura threw never allowing her fists to connect with him.

Hinata found herself mesmerized by the two shinobi,i but mainly due to a feeling of familiarity in Kyo's movements that she just couldn't shake. After almost twenty minutes Sakura connected with a punch that sent Kyo flying. He only stopped after connecting with a tree. Sakura was in front of him moments later scanning his chest to make sure her punch didn't do any serious damage.

Satisfied that she didn't she said, "Now I think it's time for my reward." Reaching up, she began to pull his mask up, Hinata found that her normal vision didn't allow her to see them clearly so she activated her Byakugan. Focusing on the kissing pair she couldn't see most of Kyo's face since Sakura hadn't pulled the mask completely off. But what Hinata saw as the girl pulled back for a breath made her heart beat harder, but whether it was due from happiness or rage she couldn't say as she knew the three lines that were on each of Kyo's cheeks like she knew her own face.

"Naruto…" she barely whispered.

However it was enough to cause the two she was spying on to go on guard as Naruto reached up pulling his mask down. "Who's there," he said scanning the woods surrounding the training field.

Hinata quickly retreated, hoping that she could make it to the village proper before it dawned on Naruto to enter his sage mode. As she entered the village several moments later she closed her eyes as she caught her breath between two buildings as she felt like crying. She was torn between being relieved at knowing that against all odds Naruto had survived another Chidori to the chest, and being devastated at the fact that despite her opening up to him and admitting her feelings he had still chosen Sakura.

Feeling crushed at that, she was about to go home, when she felt a sudden spike of anger that eclipsed all the other feelings warring within her. "No," she thought, "I'm not going to just accept this. Naruto's too good for her, and she's not taking him from me without a fight."

Confident that she could defeat the girl she decided that she'd challenge Sakura, with the prize being the right to be with Naruto.

Sakura smiled as she felt Naruto kiss her forehead as he got out of bed that morning to return to his apartment. It was small gestures like that, which showed her that Naruto was definitely the man for her. She truly wished that the war would end soon so that he wouldn't have to sneak back to his own residence every morning.

Guessing there was nothing to be done about it, except to do her part to help end the war she got out of bed to prepare for her shift. Naruto had been spoiling her the past few days since her run in with Hinata in the Mess Hall. He had somehow managed to get a supply of the bathing salts she liked and had given her nightly massages. She smiled at how many of those massages often required her and him to bath again as they let their passions run wild.

However despite how well things were going between them, she sensed a sadness just behind Naruto's cheerful smile. Since it had appeared after the run in with Hinata, she wondered if it was because he was doubting how he had handled Hinata's confession. Guessing that was the most likely scenario due in part to Naruto most likely feeling responsible for Hinata's pain it made her wonder what she could do to help not just him, but Hinata as well.

Arriving at the hospital, Sakura went about her day like she normally did. The day was thankful incident free, so allotted her lots of free time to think of a solution. However as the time to leave approached she still hadn't thought of any way to solve the matter.

As she was about to leave, Tayuya entered holding her arm. Guessing that it was sprained somehow she approached the girl ignoring the small glare that had been a part of Tayuya's usual greeting towards her. Being polite to her, Sakura asked, "What happened?"

"I got careless against that paper using bitch and she made me pay for it," Tayuya answered.

Nodding, Sakura ran a quick scan and saw that her elbow had been wrenched, but wasn't too badly injured. She was about to tell her to take a seat and she'd get a doctor for her when Hinata's voice cut in saying, "Haruno, we need to talk."

Sakura turned towards Hinata saying, "Sure, Hinata…just give me a moment…"

"No," Hinata said her voice sounding like ice, "Now."

"I don't know who you think you are talking to…"

However before Sakura could finish her sentence Hinata closed the distance between them and whispered into her ear, "I know that you've stolen Naruto from me. We are going to settle this now. You can either meet me at the training field in five minutes or I can beat you here. Either way, I won't allow you to be with him."

Sakura stepped back narrowing her eyes before replying, "I don't need your permission to be with him. He isn't yours."

Sensing the tension between the two girls Tayuya smiled as it became apparent her problem may be taking care of itself. After all, she had done some research on the Hyuuga and if she kicked Sakura's ass she doubted Naruto would be all too forgiving. She also assumed the same could hold true for Sakura. Therefore she said, "I can see to myself. It appears you two have a lot to talk about."

Hinata for a moment turned her gaze to Tayuya who she also saw as a rival for Naruto, but ignored her in favor for the one that had once more weaseled her way into the number one spot in his heart. Turning to the side she made an after you gesture saying, "You heard her Sakura. So let's go, unless you are afraid to lose."

"I won't lose to you Hinata," Sakura said walking by her, all thoughts of a peaceful happy solution fading from her mind.

Hinata followed after her leaving Tayuya there hoping the two killed each other. A sudden pain in her arm reminded her that she was injured, so she went in search of a doctor to fix her problem.

The walk to the training field was quiet and tense. Sakura wondered why it was she was even bothering to accept Hinata's challenge; after all she already had the prize they both craved in the form of Naruto's love. She figured that it was Hinata's insistence that she was unworthy of Naruto.

Arriving at the furthest training field from the village, Sakura began pulling her gloves from her pouch and slipped them over her hands. Facing Hinata and her temper having cooled, she said, "Let's call this off Hinata. It will not change anything."

Hinata shook her head as she said, "No, you don't deserve him."

Feeling her temper flaring Sakura narrowed her eyes before replying, "I'm tired of hearing you say that Hinata. You don't deserve him anymore than I do."

That set Hinata off who charged the medic with a scream. Sakura was ready for her though and used many of the techniques Tsunade had taught her for fighting shinobi that fought like Hyuuga, which was to block their attacks by pushing their arms away from her body. After doing so several times Sakura caught Hinata's right arm and pulled her towards her before bringing her knee up into Hinata's stomach.

Hinata had the breath knocked out of her, but before she could recover Sakura hit her with an uppercut that knocked the Hyuuga off her feet. Hinata rolled to her feet, but instead of charging the recovering Hyuuga, Sakura said, "Give it up Hinata, had I wanted to, that blow would have killed you if I had used chakra."

Hinata spat out the blood she tasted leaving a little hanging from her lip as she replied angrily saying, "Then you should have, because that will be the last blow you'll land."

Before Sakura could respond Hinata charged at her again and to Sakura her attacks seemed to have a killing intention behind them. Sakura wondered just how far Hinata was willing to go to remove her from Naruto.

Tayuya mentally cursed for about the hundredth time as she headed to Naruto's apartment. "Stupid fucking conscious," she thought bitterly. After getting her arm looked at, she had begun to head to her quarters. She had gotten about a third of the way there, when she felt a pang of something. It had taken her another few minutes to realize that she actually felt guilty. Why she couldn't say exactly, but she figured it was because that if Naruto learned that she had known that the two girls were fighting, he would have expected her to tell him.

She tried to ignore it at first, but the closer she got to her lonely apartment, the more insistent it had gotten till she had conceded and begun heading to Naruto's. She also figured that it was because she recognized that Hinata didn't seem to be in the right frame of mind as she seemed rather angry. Having fought a few times like that herself she knew just how easy it was for a normal fight to turn deadly. Of course in Sound, such outcomes were often encouraged. But she knew the death of either girl would hurt Naruto, so figured that had added to her guilt. As she didn't want to be even indirectly responsible for something that would hurt him.

Reaching his door she began to pound on it rapidly saying, "Hurry up and answer the fucking door."

A few moments later, Naruto dressed in his Kyo gear answered saying, "Where's the fire Tayuya?"

For a moment she felt a spike of anger, wondering when he would finally trust her enough to let her see him without the mask, but pushed it aside saying, "Probably at the fucking training field, dumbass."

Naruto tilted his head before saying, "Huh?"

"Those two bitches, Sakura and Hinata are there and if I read the situation correctly they are probably already doing their fucking best to kill each other."

Naruto cursed before running past her shouting a, "Thanks Tayuya," over his shoulder as he ran.

Figuring she did her part she sadly replied, "Don't mention it."

Sakura was breathing hard as she watched Hinata pick herself up after receiving a surprise right-hook from her. However the punch had been severely weakened since Hinata had connected with several Jyuuken strikes to that arm already. She had pulled the punch slightly as well since many of Hinata's emotions were reaching her through the fight. Hurt, loneliness, sadness, and anger were all warring around within her, with anger being the most prevalent at the moment.

Sakura didn't know what to do anymore. It was hard to stay angry, even in the face of the many barbs that Hinata had thrown her way, in light of the fact she had felt many of the same emotions herself, when she had believed Naruto had died and in the way he had acted towards her right after his return.

Hoping to reach the girl she said, "Let's quit her Hinata. Even if you beat me, it won't change anything."

Hinata shook her head before replying, "No…I'm going to surpass you Sakura, and then I'll show Naruto your true colors. That you are simply using him until you can have Sasuke."

"I already told you Hinata," Sakura said frustrated, "I love Naruto and I not Sasuke…"

Sakura could tell the truth of the matter reached Hinata as she suddenly shouted in rage again before charging her. She deflected the first few blows, but then Hinata surprised her by taking a step back adding a little spin as she did so. After creating some distance between them she came in again channeling large amounts of chakra to her hands that took the shape of two lion heads. Sakura crossed her arms and braced herself for the attack and as it hit was blown off her feet landing several feet away.

Sakura tried to sit up, but a foot to her chest pinned her to the ground. Hinata dropped to her knees pressing one of them on Sakura's chest before grabbing Sakura around the throat. Sakura stared into Hinata's eyes and noticed that her free arm was held back as if to strike her. She could see the tears leaking from the Hyuuga's eyes as she said, "Why…why couldn't you just go on loving Sasuke? Why did you have to wait until I confessed how I felt to Naruto?"

Sakura grabbed the arm that Hinata was holding her throat with, saying as best she could, "I'm…sorry Hinata. I didn't mean or plan to hurt you."

Hinata closed her eyes and Sakura could feel the grip around her throat lessen slightly. But it tightened again as Hinata glared down at her, before loosening again as Hinata dropped her raised arm. The way it fell Sakura couldn't tell if Hinata was still contemplating hurting or possibly killing her, or not. But it didn't matter as the pressure was removed from her chest as Naruto swooped down reaching one arm around Hinata's torso and carrying her away. A shadow clone landed next to Sakura saying, "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine," Sakura replied alright assessing her injuries. "What are you planning to do with her?"

The clone looked nervous before saying, "I…I need to talk to her about everything. Please stay here." Sakura nodded before telling the clone it could disperse itself to relay the message she was fine to Naruto.

Healing her minor injuries, she wondered what it was Naruto would say to her and whether it would help her or push her over the edge.

Naruto set Hinata down in some nearby woods. Hinata hadn't fought him at all and had almost seemed to relish being carried by him, even if it had been to prevent her from harming his girlfriend. He set her down before taking a step back and reached for his mask. He hesitated a moment before Hinata said, "I know it's you Naruto."

Guessing that there was no point in delaying further he pulled the mask off before placing it in his belt. Smiling awkwardly he said while rubbing the back of his head, "Hey…"

If Hinata was bothered by the awkward greeting she didn't show it as she stood there a moment before saying, "Naruto…" and launched herself at him giving him a tight hug. Naruto was surprised, figuring he deserved a lot of things, but a hug wasn't one of them. Yet, he lightly held her back allowing her to gleam whatever comfort was getting from the gesture. Eventually she pulled back and he could see some tears at the corner of her eyes which she quickly wiped away.

The two stared at each other before finally saying at the same time, "I'm sorry."

Both were surprised and chuckled lightly before Naruto asked, "What do you have to be sorry for Hinata?"

"I...I shouldn't have confessed…like I did to you," Hinata said, "Also for taking out my anger on Sakura…she…she's very lucky…"

Naruto shook his head before saying, "You don't have anything to be sorry for. At the time hearing that from you…it made me happy…that someone felt so strongly for me." He looked away before adding, "But afterwards well…I didn't know what to say to you. I was a coward…"

"No Naruto you're…"

"It's alright Hinata I was," Naruto said stopping her, "You deserved at the very least for me to tell you how I felt. Even if it wasn't what you wanted to hear."

Hinata's face grew pained, but he continued, "I do like you Hinata. But…the truth was…I lo…"

"Loved Sakura," Hinata finished the tears returning to her eyes.

Naruto nodded saying, "It was horrible and selfish of me to leave you in the dark like that. I'm sorry."

Hinata lurched forward to hug him again before crying into his shirt. After her sobs settled she asked, "Had I been braver and not waited so long, do you think…do you think you could have loved me?"

Figuring that Hinata deserved his honesty even if it hurt her more he said, "Yeah I'm sure I could've…I did mean what I said when we talked back at the Chunin Exams about liking people like you." Hinata simply nodded into his chest and so they stayed like that until she settled down.

Pulling back Hinata said desolately, "Thank you for your honesty, Naruto. I'll take my leave now, I'm sure you'll want to check on Sakura in person. Tell her I'm sorry"

Hinata took off leaving Naruto alone. Returning towards Sakura he found her leaning against a tree. Walking up to her she asked, "What happened?"

"I told her what I should have after she confessed to me," Naruto replied wiping a stray hair from Sakura's face.

"Which was," Sakura asked leaning into his hand after he moved her hair.

"That I loved you," Naruto replied.

"How did she take it?" Sakura asked.

"About as well as I thought," Naruto said before adding, "She also asked if things had been different could I love her."

"And…"

"It doesn't matter," Naruto said trying to brush off her question as he tried to lead her away from the training field.

But Sakura grabbed his arm stopping them and she asked more insistently, "And…"

"And I said if things had been different then it may have been possible," Naruto replied hopping he hadn't made her angry.

To his relief Sakura nodded but said, "Why don't you head to my place. I'll meet you there."

"Why?"

"There are some things I need to think about," Sakura replied before kissing him quickly, "I'll be there soon okay."

Naruto nodded, so she took off heading towards the apartment assigned to him. Sneaking in so that she wasn't seen, she wasn't surprised he had left a shadow clone behind like he normally did. Telling the clone she was alright and to not dispel she stripped down to take a shower.

As she stood under the hot spray of water, she thought about her fight with Hinata. She had felt all of the Hyuuga's emotions during their fight and knew that Hinata cared deeply for Naruto. Despite that she felt Hinata's love for Naruto was no different than hers had been with Sasuke. That being, they had created an idealized version of the person they had wanted to be with, in their minds. That didn't mean they truly knew what made the person tick, but it was enough to form an attachment too.

The only difference being that Naruto probably lived up to the idealized version Hinata carried around. Therefore, Sakura also felt a kinship to Hinata due to her having just had that hope crushed, primarily due to her own fear that she had lost Naruto's love. Also, for Hinata the pain of learning that Naruto was alive, had to be almost as painful as when she thought he had been dead since he was with her now. When he had been gone it was easy for the Hyuuga to imagine a different future were they could have been together and hate her for getting in the way of it. Yet now, due to his being alive and with her there wasn't really that vague what could have been floating around anymore.

This fact probably only compounded the truth that both Hinata and Sakura had been a lot alike in the race for the blonde's heart. But, instead of a tortoise and a hare, it had been between two tortoises. Hinata hadn't been able to truly race due to her almost crippling shyness, while Sakura had been too busy chasing Sasuke only realizing that the man she truly wanted had been there for her all along. That also meant that Hinata never really had a chance as all Sakura had needed to do was show up to win.

Turning off the shower she slid open the glass door and saw that Naruto's clone had left her a towel. Smiling that even his clones were courteous, she made a decision that some would question she was sure but was positive that if anyone could make it work Naruto could. Dressing in the clean clothes that the clone left along with the towel, she headed out into the village to make an offer to Hinata she knew the girl probably wouldn't be able to refuse.

Hinata heard a knocking at her door and almost decided to ignore it. Hearing that Naruto may have come to love her had she been braver had cut her deeply. However, she did appreciate that he had been honest with her, but wasn't sure what to do now. Before she was fighting for a future she was sure Naruto would have wanted, but now knowing that he had never loved her, didn't know her own reasons for continuing to fight. She was considering giving into her father's desire that she return from the front and find a suitor that would benefit the clan somehow.

The knocking at the door returned, so she got up to answer it. Peeking through the peephole she saw probably the last person she wanted to on the other side. However she did owe Sakura an apology so opened it enough peer out before saying, "I'm sorry about earlier, but if you don' mind I would really like to be alone."

She tried to close the door but Sakura placed a hand on it saying, "Please come with me."

Hinata tried to glare, but just couldn't muster the energy saying, "I'd rather not."

Sakura replied, "Look Hinata, come with me now…or spend the rest of your life wondering what if."

Hinata wondered for a moment what Sakura was talking about, but finally opened her door. After she donned her jacket and sandals she followed the pink-haired girl to her apartment. Sakura entered the darkened apartment motioning Hinata to follow. Entering the only room with a light Hinata was surprised to see Naruto lying on the bed in a pair of pajama pant bottoms and nothing else.

But if Hinata was surprised then Naruto was more so saying, "Sakura… Hinata…uhm, what's going on?"

Hinata was too busy staring at the shirtless jinchuriki but upon seeing Naruto's eyes widened shifted her gaze to Sakura to see Sakura standing in nothing but her panties. Naruto took the words out of her mouth asking, "What are you doing Sakura?"

"Getting ready for bed silly," Sakura replied with a smile before sliding up next to his right side.

Naruto was as lost as ever saying, "But Hinata…"

"I know," Sakura said kneeling next to the now sitting Naruto and looking into his eyes before adding, "Naruto, I love you. But so does Hinata, our fight showed me that." Placing a hand on his cheek she said, "When we got together I promised myself I would do all that I can to make you happy and I know it hurt you to tell Hinata you didn't return her feelings."

"But…"

"Shh," Sakura hushed him placing a finger over his lips. "Let me finish. I'm not saying you have to love her. I'm simply willing to give you the opportunity to try."

"What about us?" Naruto said.

Smiling she said, "Naruto, you've been so faithful to me and never asked anything in return. I know I don't have to worry about you one day suddenly stop loving me. That you aren't simple jumping at this opportunity is proof enough of that and that you'll consider both our feelings." Looking over her shoulder Sakura asked, "So how about it Hinata? Do you think it's possible for you to love Naruto knowing you'll have to share?"

"I…I…this is just so sudden," Hinata said blushing furiously.

"I know," Sakura replied, "So how about we all sleep on it. We can discuss it further in the morning."

Sakura pushed Naruto on his back before cuddling up next to him. Hinata stood there motionless before asking, "Can…can I stay…"

"Of course," Sakura replied.

Hinata nodded taking off her jacket. Sakura felt Naruto gulp a little as Hinata's well endowed chest was revealed although still covered by her skin tight shirt. Hinata slide into the bed and placed her head on Naruto's chest saying, "Good-night Naruto…Sakura."

The pair wished her a pleasant night as well and Sakura had to smile as Hinata fell asleep almost instantly due to the rhythmic beating of Naruto's heart. She felt Naruto's eyes on her and she could tell he had lots of questions, but she shook her head telling him they could talk about it in the morning before kissing him and turning off the light.