The Last Request

Summary: Naruto, who is gravely injured and on the brink of death, makes a final request to Sakura before it's too late. He asks her to marry him and fulfill his last dream. Despite the shock and sadness of the situation, Sakura can't refuse the man who has always been there for her. As she contemplates Naruto's request, she reflects on their shared history and the depth of their bond. With time running out, Sakura must decide whether to grant Naruto's final wish and give him a moment of happiness in his last moments.

Arthur Note: The setting for this story is set five years after the Fourth Great Ninja War. In this version of events, the Akatsuki has not yet made any attempts to capture the tailed beasts, and the Fourth Great Ninja War was a conflict that involved all of the ninja villages. As a result, Naruto has not yet established a bond with the Kyuubi, and Sasuke remains a member of the Leaf Village, instead of going with Orochimaru.

Chapter One: Unbreakable Ties

Naruto and a mysterious figure facing each other in a clearing that is bathed in moonlight, the eerie glow casting sharp contrasts of light and shadow across the area. The only sounds are the whispers of the towering, ancient trees that surrounded the clearing, their silent presence adding to the already tense atmosphere. The ground beneath their feet is uneven, littered with rocks and fallen branches that could trip the unwary.

In the distance, a river flowed quietly, it's gurgling providing a soothing counterpoint to the tension of the impending battle. The air is still and heavy, as though holding its breath in anticipation of what was to come. It is a battlefield unlike any other, one where the combatants would rely not just on their skills, but on their wits and their ability to use the terrain to their advantage.

Naruto, now a 22-year-old Jounin, stood tall and resolute, his heart thundering in his chest as he surveyed the battlefield. His long, shaggy blond hair fell in loose waves below his shoulders, framing his bright blue eyes that were filled with determination. An open black hooded trench coat adorned his muscular physique, its burnt orange lining a bold contrast against the darkness. The back of the coat bore the Namikaze Clan emblem; a mandala of nine grey circles atop a larger mustard yellow circle, while the Uzumaki Clan emblem, a red spiral outlined in white, graced the coat's upper arms. A sleek black katana, its hilt etched with a burnt orange nine-tailed fox, was strapped across his back, poised for battle.

Underneath the trench coat, Naruto wore a form-fitting black Jounin vest over a short-sleeved black shirt, his muscular form accentuated by the tight fit. His hands were encased in fingerless black gloves, wrapped in studded burnt orange leather straps. His baggy black pants, held up by a burnt orange belt, were adorned with orange wraps, black pouches attached for quick access to his tools. His feet were clad in black Shinobi sandals with burnt orange straps, the soles silent as he moved across the uneven terrain.

Naruto's accessories added an edge to his appearance—a pair of black stud earrings, an ouroboros tattoo encircling his upper-left arm, and a crow clutching the Uzumaki emblem on his right. A nine-tailed fox pendant hung from his neck, swaying slightly with each step he took, while a black forehead protector held back his blonde bangs. His face was partially hidden by a black wrap, revealing only his intense blue eyes and the determined set of his jaw. His fingernails were painted black, a stark contrast against his fair skin. As he prepared to face his opponent, Naruto exuded a deadly calm, his every movement a testament to his years of training and experience.

As Naruto stood tall and resolute, his opponent across the clearing loomed menacingly. The figure was shrouded in mystery, his face hidden by a hooded cloak as black as the night. A chilling, metallic mask adorned with slitted eyes was the only discernable feature, its silver hue gleaming ominously in the moonlight. The mask seemed to be a reflection of the figure's soul, cold and unfeeling, devoid of any emotion or humanity.

Underneath the cloak, the figure wore a form-fitting black outfit that accentuated his lithe, muscular form. Black boots and gloves completed the ensemble, adding to the figure's already intimidating presence. A single red symbol, unrecognizable and foreign, was embossed on his chest, seeming to pulse with a malevolent energy.

As the two combatants faced each other, the air crackled with tension. The moonlit clearing seemed to hold its breath, waiting for the first move in this deadly dance of battle. The towering trees around them cast eerie shadows across the ground, their rustling leaves the only sound breaking the silence. It was a battlefield unlike any other, where the only witnesses were the ancient trees and the moon itself, casting its pale light over the unfolding events.

Naruto and his opponent stood poised, each waiting for the other to make the first move. The stakes were high, and the outcome of this battle would determine the fate of their world. As the tension mounted, Naruto's grip tightened on his katana, ready to defend himself against his mysterious foe.

Naruto faced his adversary, his voice steady despite the adrenaline pumping through his veins. "I don't know who you are or what you want, but if you're here to harm my village, you'll have to get through me."

The figure gave a cold laugh, the sound echoing eerily in the silence and sending shivers down Naruto's spine. "So you're Naruto, the hero of the Leaf Village? Let's see if you live up to your reputation."

What followed was a battle of epic proportions, the sound of clashing steel and the impact of powerful blows disturbing the tranquility of the night. The figure attacked first, launching himself at Naruto with a speed that was almost inhuman. Naruto retaliated, the two of them clashing in a whirl of fists and kicks, their bodies colliding with the force of a thousand storms. The figure was fast, but Naruto was faster. He summoned a multitude of shadow clones, sending them at the figure from all directions in a dizzying display of power. However, the figure cut through them with ease, his movements fluid and precise, like a deadly dance choreographed to the beat of an invisible drum.

Naruto didn't let up. He fought back with all his might, his every move a blend of power and precision, his face twisted with the fierce determination that had defined him since childhood. He launched a barrage of kunai, their sharp edges glinting in the moonlight as they hurtled towards the figure. He created more shadow clones, their combined force an army in itself. He even used his Rasengan, the swirling ball of chakra pulsating with raw energy. But the figure evaded every attack with chilling grace, his movements a twisted mirror of Naruto's own.

The figure retaliated, his attacks fierce and relentless, leaving deep gouges in the earth and shattering the surrounding trees. Naruto was hit multiple times, each blow pushing him further and further back, his body battered and bruised. The figure then drew a unique blade, its hilt adorned with strange symbols that seemed to glow with a sinister light. With a swift movement, the figure lunged forward, plunging the blade deep into Naruto's abdomen.

Naruto gasped, his blue eyes wide with shock as the cold steel pierced him. The pain was immediate, a blinding, searing agony that made his vision swim. He could feel something strange, an eerie energy seeping from the blade into his body. He tried to draw on the Kyuubi's energy to heal himself, but it was as if a wall had been erected between him and that moment, Naruto realized this was no ordinary blade. It was designed to suppress the Kyuubi's chakra, leaving him vulnerable and unable to heal. Panic threatened to rise within him, but he pushed it down, refusing to give in. His spirit would not be so easily broken.

With a guttural scream, Naruto mustered all his remaining strength and wrenched the blade from his body, blood staining the ground beneath him. He stumbled back, his breath ragged and uneven, his face etched with pain. But his eyes... they still burned with a fierce determination, a fire that could not be extinguished.

"You... you won't defeat me," Naruto managed to choke out, his voice shaking but resolute. "I'll protect my village... no matter the cost."

The figure paused, his masked face unreadable. "You truly are a worthy opponent, Naruto. But this... this is the end for you."

Naruto clenched his teeth, his grip on the hilt of his katana tightening. "We'll see about that."

With a roar, Naruto charged at the figure, his weakened body pushed to its very limits. He swung his katana in a powerful arc, the blade slicing through the air with deadly intent. The figure countered, their swords clashing in a cacophony of steel. Sparks flew as they engaged in a fierce battle of wills, neither willing to back down, both aware that only one would walk away from this encounter.

As the battle raged on, Naruto's body began to betray him, weakened by the wound inflicted by the sinister blade. His movements became sluggish, his strength slowly ebbing away. But he refused to give in, pouring every ounce of his determination into each strike.

And then, in a moment of pure desperation, Naruto made his final move. Summoning the last remnants of his chakra, he formed a Rasengan and hurled it at the figure with all his might. The figure attempted to dodge, but the attack grazed his side, the force of the impact sending him flying into a nearby tree.

Naruto collapsed to the ground, his body battered and exhausted, his breathing labored. He watched as the figure slowly rose to his feet, clutching his side where the Rasengan had struck. For the first time, the figure's composure seemed to waver, his movements unsteady.

Just as the figure was about to land the final blow, a figure emerged from the shadows. "Enough!" Sasuke's voice echoed through the clearing, just as the figure's blade was about to strike Naruto again.

Sasuke, dressed in his black Jounin uniform bearing the Uchiha clan symbol, stood tall and formidable, his Sharingan eyes blazing with fury. He quickly assessed the situation, taking in the injured Naruto

Sasuke turned his attention back to the figure, his hand tightening around the hilt of his katana. "Who are you and what do you want with the Leaf Village?" he demanded, his voice cold.

The figure chuckled darkly, his face still obscured by the mask. "I am but a servant, carrying out the will of my master. The Leaf Village is of no consequence to me, only a means to an end."

Sasuke's eyes narrowed. "You will tell me everything you know about your master and your plans for the Leaf Village."

"You think you can intimidate me, Uchiha? You know nothing of true power." The figure said before he laughed, disappearing into the shadows before Sasuke could make another move.

Naruto coughs out some blood, which gains Sasuke attention.

"Naruto!" Sasuke rushed to Naruto's side, his heart pounding. Naruto lay in a pool of his own blood, his breaths shallow and erratic. Sasuke carefully lifted Naruto, cradling his friend's limp body in his arms.

"Sasuke…" Naruto's voice was barely a whisper, his blue eyes barely open.

"Hang on, Naruto. You're going to be alright," Sasuke said, his voice hoarse. But the sight of Naruto, so pale and still, filled him with fear. He had to get Naruto to the hospital, now.

With Naruto in his arms, Sasuke raced towards the Leaf Village, praying that he would make it in time. The lights of the village were just ahead, a beacon of hope in the darkness. As Sasuke reached the entrance of the Leaf Village hospital, he braced himself for the worst if he didn't get Naruto there fast enough.

Sasuke sprinted towards the Leaf Village, clutching an unconscious Naruto. As the hospital lights came into view, he pushed his legs faster.

Bursting through the doors, Sasuke shouted, "Help! My friend is badly injured!"

Doctors rushed Naruto into emergency surgery as Sakura arrived.

"What happened?" Karin asked, seeing the desperation in Sasuke's eyes.

"We were ambushed on the way home," Sasuke explained shakily. "Some guy I've never seen before. He stabbed Naruto with a strange sword. There was nothing I could do..."

Karin squeezed Sasuke's hand supportively. "They'll do everything they can to save him."

In the operating room, Tsunade joined Sakura in attempting to heal Naruto's devastating wounds. But not even the Nine-Tails' power could repair the damage.

The hospital lights overhead blazed down with a clinical, sterile brightness that made the room feel almost otherworldly. Their fluorescent glow cast harsh shadows across the walls and floors, highlighting every crevice and crease in the metal equipment that surrounded Naruto's body. The light seemed to amplify the urgency of the situation, casting the entire room in a cold, unrelenting glow that made everyone in the room feel exposed and vulnerable.

As for the operating room smell, the air was thick with the tang of antiseptics and disinfectants, mingled with the metallic scent of blood. The acrid odor of burning flesh hung thickly in the air, a testament to the intensity of the chakra flowing through Sakura's hands as she worked to heal Naruto's wounds. The scent filled the room, clinging to the walls and floors like a noxious fog, a constant reminder of the gravity of the situation and the stakes of their race against time.

"Sakura, will you marry me?" Naruto asked, his voice weak but filled with hope.

Sakura paused her work, her hands trembling slightly from the emotional weight of the situation. She looked into Naruto's eyes, filled with determination and a touch of sadness.

"Naruto, I can't," Sakura replied, her voice filled with regret. "Right now, my focus is on saving you, on bringing you back from the brink. Marriage... it's not something we can consider at this moment."

Desperation flickered across Naruto's face as he pleaded with her. "Please, Sakura-chan. Do it for me. I want to know that regardless of what happens, you'll always be by my side."

Tears welled up in Sakura's eyes as she struggled to find the right words to say. She knew how deeply Naruto cared for her, and she cherished their bond. But now, their priority was Naruto's survival, not making lifelong commitments.

"Naruto..." Sakura began, her voice gentle yet firm. "I understand how you feel, and I appreciate your love and trust in me. But right now, let's focus on getting you through this. Once you're safe and healthy, we can talk about our future together."

As Sakura stood under the bright hospital lights, channeling her chakra to mend Naruto's broken body, she couldn't help but feel the weight of their journey. Naruto's life hung in the balance, and she knew the enormity of the task before her. She had seen him endure countless battles, but this time, it was different. The damage inflicted seemed insurmountable, even for Naruto's indomitable spirit.

The attack had come unexpectedly as Naruto were returning from a mission in the Land of Waves. A mysterious man ambushed Naruto, wielding a strange sword that inflicted devastating wounds. It was a blow that even the regenerative power of the Nine-Tailed Fox couldn't heal.

Fortunately, Sasuke happened to be nearby, on his way to his own mission, and he stumbled upon the injured Naruto. Without hesitation, Sasuke realized the gravity of the situation and immediately rushed Naruto back to the village, desperately seeking help.

Shizune, the village's skilled medical ninja, had given Naruto a grim prognosis: less than twenty minutes to live. The urgency of the situation fueled Sakura's determination to save him, to prove that their unwavering bond could overcome any obstacle.

With each surge of chakra that flowed through her, Sakura fought against time, pushing her skills and abilities to their limits. She knew that Naruto's life was in her hands, and failure was not an option. As she worked tirelessly, her mind remained focused on Naruto's safety, their friendship, and the unspoken promise of a future that lay ahead.

Tsunade stood by Sakura's side, the hospital lights casting a harsh glow across her face. The smell of disinfectant and antiseptic filled the air, mixing with the scent of sweat and fear. She tried to focus on helping Sakura, but her mind kept drifting back to Naruto, lying on the operating table, his life slipping away with every passing second.

A tear ran down her cheek as she stared at another person she loved who would die before fulfilling his dream of becoming Hokage. She had seen so much death in her life, but this one felt particularly cruel.

"Sakura-chan," Naruto whispered, his voice weak and ragged. "Please, I...I am dying. I don't have long, and I have loved you forever. Please grant me this last request. Even though you have never felt the same way about me…please, Sakura-chan! Marry me, right here, right now! You will do it if you have ever cared for me at all."

Sakura's heart ached at the desperation in Naruto's voice. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she struggled to comprehend what he was asking of her.

"What would that solve? What would it prove?" she asked, her voice trembling.

"It would make me the happiest man in the world, my Sakura-chan," Naruto replied, attempting to smile. "Please, it was always you. You are the only one in my heart."

Sakura shook her head in disbelief. "This is crazy, Naruto!"

But Naruto was insistent. "Please, I don't have much time. Besides, you wouldn't even have to be married to me long."

Sakura turned towards Tsunade, her eyes pleading for help. The older woman's gaze bore into hers, and Sakura could see the pain and sadness etched into her features.

Naruto had been hopelessly in love with Sakura ever since she had known him. He had asked Sakura out countless times, only to be turned down or punched. It just kind of depended on the mood Sakura was in at the time. She loved them both, and she wanted Naruto to be happy, even in his final moments, she just prayed that they had enough time…

"Tsunade-sama!" Sakura whispered, her voice choked with emotion. "Would you please...do this for Naruto?"

Tsunade nodded, her own tears blurring her vision. She knew that Naruto's time was running out, and she wanted to give him this one final moment of joy.

"Uzumaki Naruto!" she said, her voice shaking. "Do you take Haruno Sakura as your lawfully wedded wife?"

Naruto's heart swelled with gratitude as he looked at Tsunade. "Thanks, Granny" he thought.

"I do," he murmured, his voice barely audible.

"Haruno Sakura!" Tsunade said, turning to Sakura. "Do you take Uzumaki Naruto as your lawfully wedded husband?"

Sakura's heart felt like it was breaking as she looked at Naruto, his face pale and drawn. But she knew that she couldn't deny him this one last request.

"Yes, I do," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Then it is done," Tsunade said, a note of finality in her voice. "I, as Hokage of the Leaf, pronounce you Man and Wife. You may now kiss."

"Granny," Naruto said weakly, his breaths coming in ragged gasps. "Please, make sure you do the paperwork to make it official, even if I am not here to see it."

"I will, Naruto," Tsunade promised, tears streaming down her face.

Naruto's gaze turned to Sakura, his eyes pleading. "Kiss me, Sakura-chan," he whispered.

Sakura leaned forward, her heart heavy with grief. She could taste the metallic tang of blood on his lips, a bitter reminder of the battle that had brought him to this point. But she could also taste his strength and passion, a testament to the indomitable spirit that had made him who he was.

As she kissed him, she could feel his breath hitch and his lips move against hers. For a moment, it was as if time had stopped, and all that mattered was the two of them, locked in this final embrace.

But then, all at once, Naruto was still. His heart beat no more, and Sakura knew that he was gone. Tears streamed down her face as she pulled away, her heart heavy with sorrow and regret.

"I'm sorry, Naruto," she whispered, her voice choked with emotion. "I'm so sorry."

Sakura sensed a chilling stillness in Naruto, a stillness so profound that it bore into her soul, leaving her shaken to her core. This was nothing like the dynamic, spirited Naruto she knew. His usual vibrancy was replaced by an eeriness that filled her with a bone-deep sense of wrongness. Naruto had always been a whirlwind of energy, a lively tempest, but now he was as motionless and silent as a grave marker. His ocean-deep eyes, once ablaze with indefatigable fervor, now stared lifelessly at the ceiling.

It was unbearable for Sakura to see Naruto in this state, seeing him there but not really perceiving anything. His life and dreams had been heartlessly ripped from him at the tender age of 22, and Naruto, who had always been Sakura's rock and constant, was now a mere shadow of his former self.

As predictable as the rising sun, he was always there to comfort her after a long day of training, or to lend a hand when she was struggling with a difficult jutsu. The air in the room was thick with the scent of blood and death, and it was silent except for Sakura's ragged breathing and the soft rustling of her clothes as she moved.

Her husband of less than twenty minutes was stolen from her, leaving her to gasp for breath under the devastating weight of her grief. Overwhelmed, she fled the room, tears streaming down her face. Her heart was too numb to fully comprehend her loss of her friend, and she was left reeling from the suddenness and finality of it all.

Naruto awakens in a dark, empty void with no walls, floors, or ceilings. The only source of light is a faint glow emanating from his body, and the Kyuubi is the only other presence with him. As he looks around, he realizes with a sinking feeling that he must have died. The memory of marrying Sakura and sharing a kiss with her is a bittersweet comfort to him in this strange and disorienting place, but the fact that he's in some sort of afterlife only adds to his sense of vulnerability and uncertainty. The emptiness of the space around him amplifies his feelings of insignificance and isolation, making him feel lost and adrift.

Naruto is consumed by a heat that outstrips any inferno he has ever known. A tide of contempt and fury surges through him, overwhelming his senses and clouding his judgment. He could feel the derision radiating from Kyuubi as it watched him, feeling the pain as it attempted to heal him.

There is no sound in this place except for the hissing of the Kyuubi. Naruto feels disoriented and lost, as if he's adrift in an endless ocean of darkness. The emptiness of the space adds to his sense of vulnerability, making him feel small and insignificant.

Despite the void-like nature of the space, there is a sense of tension and conflict in the air. Naruto and Kyuubi stand opposite each other, each radiating an aura of power and dominance. The setting reflects the power dynamic between the two characters, emphasizing the intensity of the moment and the high stakes involved.

"As predictable as ever, you feeble, pitiful child," Kyuubi snarled venomously. The air was thick with the scent of smoke and sulfur, burning Naruto's nose and making his eyes water. "Such is the cruel jest of life - the moment you grasp your heart's desire, it is extinguished before your very eyes. Years wasted pining for that pink-haired girl, and just when she becomes yours, you meet your end. You are a pitiful, woeful fool. The Fourth Hokage's decision to seal me within someone so fragile and weak is a curse," Kyuubi spat with a growl.

"Show some respect to our host," a novel voice that Naruto had never heard before interjected.

"Who's going to enforce that?" Kyuubi challenged defiantly, only to cry out as something sharp prodded it.

"What treachery is this?" Kyuubi roared, struggling against the chains, only to have them constrict tighter.

From the abyss of Naruto's psyche emerged an awe-inspiring figure. The figure was a gargantuan dragon, with four pairs of wings, each larger and more imposing than the last. The first pair was closest to the head, robust and mighty, designed to lift the colossal body. The subsequent wings trailed down its long body, shrinking in size but not in their capacity to generate potent gusts of wind.

The dragon's body was a stunning mix of black and burnt orange, colors that seemed to mirror the fiery depths of a volcano. Its skin was adorned with sleek scales that shimmered darkly under the light, each one edged with a subtle orange hue. Spikes, ranging from the size of a small dagger to that of a full-grown man, lined its body and tail, enhancing its fearsome appearance.

As the dragon moved, the spikes seemed to glow and flicker, casting eerie shadows around the area. The dragon's eyes were a fierce blend of orange and red, burning with an intensity that was both captivating and terrifying. Every breath exhaled a cloud of smoke, and every growl seemed to shake the very foundations of Naruto's psyche.

"You dare to defy me, Dragon?" Kyuubi sneered, its voice filled with disdain and its eyes narrowing as it assessed the grandeur of the dragon.

The dragon flexed its massive wings, unsettling the air and ruffling Kyuubi's fur with a deep, rumbling growl that reverberated threateningly in the vast expanse of Naruto's psyche. It then responded with a deafening roar, showcasing its rows of razor-sharp teeth and exhaling a cloud of smoke that assaulted Naruto's senses, causing him to cough and choke on the fumes. The surge of the dragon's energy through Naruto's body tasted like the metallic tang of blood in his mouth, and the pain was so intense that he bit down on his tongue.

"I do not seek to challenge you, Kyuubi. I am here to remind you of your place, and to protect our host," the dragon announced, its voice echoing with the same commanding authority it had previously shown, before turning to Naruto.

"Once I break free, I will end you," Kyuubi threatened as it strained against the chains.

The dragon sneered as the rough and gnarled chains constricted around Kyuubi's body, eliciting a deafening roar of agony from the powerful beast. Naruto reached out to touch the chains, feeling the rough, rusted metal beneath his fingers and experiencing a sense of revulsion and disgust from the gritty and uncomfortable texture digging into Kyuubi's flesh with each futile struggle.

The void-like space seemed to amplify the sensory details, making them more intense and overwhelming. Naruto felt like he was in the eye of a storm, buffeted by conflicting emotions and sensations. The dragon's presence filled him with a sense of awe and fear, while the chains and Kyuubi's insults left him feeling angry and frustrated.

"Who are you?" Naruto asked, awestruck by the majestic sight before him.

"Patience. I will explain my origin and how I was sealed within you in due time. First, we must revive you. Brace yourself for a pain unlike anything you've ever felt, and prepare for a necessary period of rest," the enigmatic creature advised with a sonorous voice. With that, it directed a surge of energy into Naruto. Hellfire consumed him, and Naruto released a scream only he could hear.

Simultaneously, the mysterious creature turned her gaze back to the Kyuubi, her eyes filled with the promise of retribution for its insolence.

Tsunade stood beside Naruto, her heart heavy with an unbearable weight. His once vibrant life force was now eerily absent. Her gaze landed on the necklace that adorned his still chest, her necklace. It was a symbol of Naruto's persevering spirit, his unwavering determination, and his unyielding will. He had earned it not through talent alone, but through resilience and an almost stubborn tenacity. Yet, even these extraordinary traits had been insufficient to protect him this time.

Her mind wandered to Sakura, and a nostalgic, bittersweet memory washed over her. She remembered her own lover, stolen by the merciless hand of fate before he could realize his dream of becoming Hokage. Just like Naruto, he too had been taken before their love story could find its deserved conclusion.

He too had been the recipient of the First Hokage's necklace, the same necklace that now lay against Naruto's chest, stained with his blood. The impact of Naruto's death on the village would be devastating. He had, after all, become one of their most revered Jounin, a former Anbu Captain, a beacon of hope and a symbol of relentless courage. She reached out to close Naruto's unseeing eyes, unable to bear the sight of them staring into a future he could no longer be part of.

And then, she sensed it.

A malevolent force, hotter than the sun's scorching rays. It was as if she had touched a flame, forcing her to retract her hand. She, along with the few remaining medics, watched in awe and horror as a red, mist-like substance seeped from Naruto's wounds. It was similar to chakra, yet alarmingly different.

This force was extraordinarily potent, a hundredfold more dangerous than anything she had encountered. The Fifth Hokage, despite her wealth of experience, found herself entranced by its movement. It was a dance of life and death, a spectacle of survival. As the wounds gradually closed, disappearing as if they were mere illusions, she realized Naruto wasn't fully gone, not yet. The kyuubi within him was in a fight for survival, refusing to be extinguished easily.

"Call the other nurses back in! He's still fighting! We must do everything within our power to aid him!", Tsunade's voice echoed through the room, a battle cry against the looming specter of death.

Now, all she could do was hold on to a sliver of hope. Hope that Naruto will defy the odds. Hope that he could return to them. Hope that he and Sakura could live the love story that she and Dan were denied. If Naruto could hold on, could fight against the inevitable, then she would stand strong too. She would not let despair win.

"Shizune!" Tsunade's voice broke the heavy silence.

"Hai, Lady Tsunade!" Shizune responded, her voice steady despite the situation.

"Take a lock of his hair. We'll use it as a conduit to direct our chakra into him, to bolster whatever force is attempting to heal him," Tsunade instructed, her voice firm.

There was no doubt in her mind that this was the work of the fox spirit.

"But Lady Tsunade, won't that kill him? We'll be merging our energy with this unknown entity inside him!" Shizune's voice was laced with concern.

"No, we won't. According to the world, Naruto is already dead. . It's the Kyuubi within him that fights now, and we are going to support it in every way possible!" Tsunade declared, her voice resounding with an unwavering determination that filled the room.

"Hai!" Shizune responded, her own voice steady, echoing the resolve in Tsunade's words.

Tsunade then gathered her focus, pulling from the depths of her vast reservoir of chakra. She concentrated it all into Naruto, her brow furrowed in intense concentration. The situation was slowly tilting in their favor, but she remained acutely aware of the precarious balance of how easily fortunes could reverse in the intricate dance between life and death.

"Secure the door," Tsunade ordered, her voice authoritative yet tinged with a hidden sorrow, "No one is to enter. Not even his wife."

She knew all too well the torment of losing a loved one, and the cruel illusion of a miracle that only served to deepen the initial wound. It was a harsh reality, a bitter lesson she had learned from her own past encounters with Orochimaru.

With the door now barred, the room was a microcosm of focused energy, every medic channeling their chakra to aid Naruto's battle for survival. Tsunade, standing like an unwavering pillar, her hand softly touching the First Hokage's necklace on Naruto's chest, poured her own energy into him. Every fiber of her being was invested in this endeavor, hoping against hope that the combined efforts of the medical team and the powerful Kyuubi spirit within Naruto would suffice to pull him back from the precipice.

As the room vibrated with the intensity of their efforts, Tsunade's thoughts echoed the collective sentiment. 'Hold on, Naruto,' she thought, 'You've always been a fighter. Now more than ever, we need you to fight.' The room, filled with the focused energy of the medics, hung in a palpable suspense, as if time itself was holding its breath, waiting for Naruto to draw his own.

Sakura had sequestered herself in a room, far removed from the chaos that was unfolding. The loud clamor outside was a stark contrast to her solitary confinement. What was happening? Would they be tending to the wounded without her? She was too paralyzed by grief to move, too consumed by distress to venture out.

Four grueling hours later, Tsunade stood by Naruto's side, her face glistening with perspiration, her eyes filled with a quiet anticipation. His body had been completely healed, not a scratch or a wound marred his skin. If he woke from his unconscious state, he would be weak for a time, but he would recover. If he woke up…

His breaths were slow but steady, his heart rhythm was slightly offbeat, but it was strong. His chakra network was fragmented, yet it was pulsating. His brain activity was subpar, but then again, Naruto had always been a unique case. A small, wistful smile tugged at her lips as she found herself amused by her own joke. She knew Naruto would have appreciated her humor, even in such dire circumstances.

Uzumaki Naruto would survive. He would live a full life with the woman he loved, once he emerged from his unconscious state. He would fulfill his dream of becoming the Hokage. Tsunade was now convinced that everything would be alright.

If he woke up.

It was time to share this hopeful news. With a newfound sense of hope in her heart, Tsunade left the room, her destination clear. She needed to find Sakura, Naruto's wife, and bestow upon her the news that could reignite the flame of hope in her heart.

*A Month Later*

The tender warmth of the morning sun bathed Naruto's face, filtering through the large, generous window of his room. The ambient hum of nurses moving back and forth in the distant corridor played a gentle symphony to his ears. His body felt like a shipwreck, frail from a relentless storm, yet the pain was surprisingly minimal, a muted presence in the backdrop of his senses. He parted his sapphire eyes, vibrant like a summer sky, to take in his surroundings.

He was ensconced within the confines of a pristine hospital room, the walls painted a soothing white, the space warmed by the soft glow of the sunlight. His bed, a comfortable cocoon, was nestled by the room's single, generous window. Beyond the glass, the world was coming to life. The sky was a clear expanse of cerulean, flecked with wisps of cotton candy clouds, and the morning sun hung low, casting long shadows over the village. The air held the promise of a beautiful day ahead, a gentle breeze rustling the curtains and filling the room with the sweet scent of blooming flowers.

A pair of chairs, their wooden surfaces polished to a shine, stood guard next to a table, the surface of which was blanketed with floral arrangements. Their vibrant colors and intoxicating fragrance lent a sense of homeliness to the otherwise sterile environment.

Miraculously, he was alive. In the face of what had seemed like certain death, he had survived. His heart pounded within his chest, a rhythmic testament to his existence, and with a sense of wonder that made him feel almost giddy, he remembered that he was married. Married to the most exquisite woman in existence, his one and only love.

Sakura-chan.

Her name was a soothing lullaby in the tempest of his thoughts. Where could she be at the moment? With a pained grunt, he attempted to sit up, to seek her out, but his strength was a traitor. His body, still recovering, forced him back into the plush pillows. And so, with thoughts of Sakura and the memory of her sweet, cherry blossom-scented hair filling his senses, he surrendered to the call of sleep once again.

*Same day*

The sun had climbed higher in the sky, its rays pouring into the Hokage's office, casting long, dancing shadows on the floor.

"It has been three weeks, Hokage-sama," Hatake Kakashi voiced, the concern palpable in his tone. His silver hair stirred slightly in the wind that seeped through the open window, his dark eyes clouded with worry.

Kakashi had seen many things in his life, but he had been convinced that if Naruto were to awaken, it would have occurred considerably earlier. Naruto, his student, whose resilience was legendary, couldn't be held down this long.

"I'm aware, Kakashi," Tsunade replied, her voice carrying an undertone of worry. Her eyes, aged with wisdom and responsibility, held a distant look as she stared out the window. "I must confess, I too am taken aback that his recovery has been this prolonged. However, I believe his brain is mending now. After all, he was practically at death's door."

Kakashi flinched at the word. DEAD. The term echoed in his mind, a haunting melody that clashed awfully with the image of Naruto - his student, his friend. Naruto, who had ascended to the rank of admiral Jounin, former Anbu Captian, and had become an invaluable asset to their village. Naruto, whose infectious spirit had touched countless lives and who had earned a level of fame that possibly outstripped Kakashi's own, earning the moniker "the yellow flash of the leaf." Naruto, who had finally been granted the privilege of being with Sakura, the woman he had loved with all his heart.

"Hokage-sama," Kakashi began, his voice more somber, "how is Sakura holding up?"

Tsunade sighed deep and long, her gaze still fixed on the landscape outside. The village was bathed in the golden hue of midday, the sun at its zenith. But the warmth of the day did little to ease the chill that Sakura's situation brought.

"Sakura," Tsunade began, her voice carrying a mix of worry and resignation. "She's been unusually quiet and introspective lately, burying herself in her work to an unhealthy degree. She visits Naruto infrequently. Despite being one of the few permitted to enter his room for the past three weeks, besides myself and the nursing staff, she seems to keep her distance. I fear that excessive noise or over stimulation might pose a threat to his recovery."

Sakura would deliver his get-well gifts, her usually vibrant green eyes dulled and hollow. She'd gaze at him for a fleeting moment, a myriad of emotions flashing across her face before she'd school her features into a neutral mask and leave. Any inquiries about him were met with a brusque dismissal, a sharp contrast to her usual caring nature.

"I can't claim to know her current thoughts," Tsunade continued, pulling herself from her musings. "But I suspect she's grappling with fear and anxiety about what will transpire upon his awakening. She expressed a desire for me to annul their marriage without Naruto's consent."

Kakashi was taken aback, his shock evident in his wide eyes. He was aware that Sakura had been cautious about relationships following her experience with Sasuke, but to hurt Naruto in such a manner…

His train of thought was interrupted by a knock at the door. The sunlight from the window cast a long shadow of the figure standing outside.

"Enter," Tsunade commanded.

Shizune, Tsunade's assistant, stepped in with an infectious smile spreading across her face, a stark contrast to the solemn atmosphere that had just moments before filled the room.

"Hokage-sama, he's conscious, awake, and," Shizune broke off with a giggle, "He's hungry!"

Kakashi was the first to bolt from the room, a wave of relief washing over him. Tsunade, her previous worry replaced with a smirk, quickly followed suit. That Naruto, she thought, he really was something else.

Naruto looked around at all the familiar faces surrounding him – members of the Nara clan, including his old comrade Shikamaru, the robust Akamichi clan, the mind-reading Yamanaka clan, the Stoic Hyugas, and many more.

It seemed as though the entire heartbeat of the Leaf village had been squeezed into this compact room, their eyes all aflame with the joy of his miraculous recovery and the celebration of his unexpected marriage to Sakura. They congratulated him on finally marrying Sakura and escaping the clutches of death once more.

Naruto's heart was filled with longing as he scanned the crowd, searching for Sakura. Out of all the people in the world, it was her face that he yearned to see the most, like a sunflower reaching for the sun.

"Sakura-chan," Naruto whispered to himself, wondering where she could be.

A clear voice cut through the convivial chatter, commanding attention. 'Out of the way, give the boy some air!' Tsunade's authoritative voice carried an aura of authority that immediately created a bubble of space around Naruto. Her words echoed through the room, silencing the excited chatter and dispersing the crowd like a receding tide.

"Granny," Naruto greeted her, his voice raspy.

"Naruto! Naruto, can you hear me?" Kakashi's voice cut through the noise, his masked face etched with concern.

"Yes, I can, Kakashi Sensei." Naruto replied, his voice barely above a whisper.

"All of your concerns are greatly appreciated, but Naruto is entirely too weak for this scale of a welcome back party! All of you will wait in the lobby until he is ALLOWED to have visitors," Tsunade declared.

Naruto felt all the stress in his body dissipate with the newfound quiet.

" Granny. Kakashi Sensei," he whispered, his voice barely audible.

"Yes Naruto," they responded in unison, their voices a comforting balm to his ears.

"Where is Sakura?" Naruto's question hung in the air, his eyes searching their faces for an answer.

Meanwhile Sakura continued to hide in the dark, isolated room that had become her sanctuary from the prying eyes of the nurses seeking to present her to Naruto like a sacrificial lamb. Over the years, she had honed her ability to mask her presence, transforming it into a perfect camouflage. They were looking for her, but she wouldn't allow them to take her to Naruto.

His awakening was bittersweet. On one hand, Naruto had once again beaten the odds and survived, and Sakura was immensely grateful for that. But on the other hand, his survival meant that she was trapped, married to him and unable to escape his grasp.

Naruto was her closest friend, and she was glad that he was alive and had the opportunity to become Hokage, but she knew he would expect them to pick up where they left off. He would never let her go now that he had her.

Sakura felt a very familiar chakra signature approaching – Lady Tsunade. She remembered the directive she had been given three weeks ago and thought about it as the chakra drew nearer.

" Uzumaki Sakura! You will be Naruto's wife! When he awakens, you will take care of him until he is fully recovered! You will honor him with your words and with your actions. You will be loyal to him. When the time comes, you will share his bed and you WILL consummate the marriage! DO YOU UNDERSTAND?' " Tsunade's words echoed in her mind.

She knew Tsunade wouldn't advocate for her freedom. If she was to escape this, she would need to convince Naruto that their union would only bring him pain. She couldn't let him break her. She wouldn't fall for him, regardless of how wonderful he was.

Tsunade stopped outside the room, sensing Sakura's faintly masked chakra. It was slight but unmistakable. Under normal circumstances, Tsunade would have been proud of Sakura's progress. However, this was not the time for hiding. Naruto wanted to see his wife, and Tsunade was determined to make sure he did, even if she had to drag Sakura kicking and screaming.

As the door opened, Sakura stood before Tsunade, her face a pallid mask of resignation. "Lady Tsunade," she greeted, her voice devoid of its usual warmth.

"So, given the fact that you were hiding, I take it you know why I am looking for you," Tsunade said, her voice carrying a hint of reprimand.

"Hai," Sakura acknowledged, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Over half of the Leaf and people from other lands have come to see him. But when he woke, the only name on his lips was yours. I am so disappointed in you, Sakura," Tsunade said, her words felt like a slap to Sakura's face.

"Hokage-sama-" Sakura tried to interject, but was swiftly cut off by Tsunade.

"Don't say anything. Your actions have spoken louder than any of your words could ever hope to. I just want to make one thing clear. Do you remember the conversation that we had?" Tsunade's gaze was unwavering as she asked.

From Sakura's blush, it was clear that she remembered, her silent confirmation speaking volumes.

"Good. Don't forget, for I will know if you insist on being difficult, and I will not be pleased. Take this time to rethink some things in your life. Sometimes things find us before we even know we are looking for them. This is the choice that you made, for better or worse. Come," Tsunade warned, her gaze lingering on Sakura for a moment longer.

Sakura felt the weight of her words and followed her mentor, her heart pounding in her chest. She was trapped. There was no way out of this. She would have to face Naruto, face the reality of their unexpected marriage. The thought made her sick to her stomach. But she had no choice. She had to comply.

With a heavy heart, Sakura took a deep breath and stepped out of the room. Her steps were heavy as she made her way to Naruto's room. Each step bringing her closer to the inevitable.

As she stepped into Naruto's room, her heart clenched. Naruto lay there, looking so small and frail in the hospital bed. "Wow. I've been out for a month?" Naruto asked.

"Yes, you were little more than dead. Your wounds were really serious," Kakashi replied.

"Well, not that I am complaining, but how is it that I am alive?" Naruto asked, he doesn't remember about the dragon.

Kakashi wondered if he should tell Naruto about the red and black mist that had healed him. "What do you remember?" he asked him.

"I remember being in darkness and…..feeling the hottest fire. It felt like I was burning….." Naruto said.

He was cut short by the door opening. And then his heart almost stopped, but it had nothing to do with the injuries that he'd had.

Sakura-chan.

She walked into the room, followed by Tsunade. She looked like a goddess. Her soft pink hair curled becomingly around her face. Her piercing green eyes were focusing on anything but him. She was biting at her full lower lip. Her clothes fit her like a second skin.

Her classic red shirt caught around her tiny waist and stretched enticingly over her glorious breasts. The short black skirt that she wore with hung wonderfully over her hips and gave a tasteful view of her long, perfectly shaped legs. Her skin looked as smooth as peach cream and probably tasted just as good.

She was so beautiful, and to think, she was finally his. And of her own free will, too! One day soon, when he was feeling up to it, they would….

"Naruto-kun. It is good to see that you are feeling better and awake," Sakura said.

Naruto-kun? When had she ever called him that? That namesake had been reserved for Muzan ever since she meant him. She had never thought enough of him to be that formal. When she had, it just seemed silly because they were such good friends. He, on the other hand, had always used a title in reference to her because she was just so amazing to him.

"Sakura-chan," he said lovingly.

"Well Kakashi, I think we should give these newlyweds some time alone," Tsunade said.

"I agree," Kakashi said with a smile.

So he left with Tsunade leaving Sakura to her premature marital problems and Naruto in ignorant wedded bliss.

"I hope you're right," Jiraiya said as he arrived.

"I know I am," Tsunade stated confidently as she walked away with Jiraiya, leaving Sakura and Naruto alone in the room.

Sakura was deathly quiet. What could she say? Naruto looked at her expectantly with his bright eyes. She said the only thing that she thought would be feasible given the circumstances.

"So…how are you feeling? Does anything hurt?" Sakura asked, trying to keep the conversation light.

"I have plenty of dull aches and I feel as weak as a newborn colt, but I will be alright with rest," Naruto replied, his eyes never leaving her.

"Good," Sakura said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Naruto looked at her through hooded eyes. There was an elephant in the room and she was seriously attempting to ignore it. They were married, after all. They had so many things to discuss. Things like, whose apartment they would move into, how she would take care of him while he recovered, and…..other things….

"Why are you trying to avoid me? We need to talk Sakura-chan," Naruto asked gently, his voice filled with a mix of affection and confusion.

Sakura's head shot up. So this was it.

"Well Naruto-kun, about that…" Sakura began, her voice shaky.

"Here we go," Naruto thought, bracing himself for what she was about to say.

"I was thinking that maybe we shouldn't stay married. Since no...consummation," She blushed, "has taken place, an annulment would be quick and easy."

Naruto was silent for a moment, his bright blue eyes never leaving her face. He saw the hurt and confusion in his eyes, but the hurt that he would suffer at her hands if they stayed married would be worst. And then he saw that famous determination steal over his face. He wasn't going to let this go. He was going to find out a lot about her mindset and the way she truly felt for him from this conversation.

"But you married me of your own free will. I asked you, and you said YES," Naruto stated.

"Naruto, you were dying….. I wanted you to die happy," Sakura replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

"You wanted me to die happy, but you don't want me to live happy. Tell me, Sakura-chan, would you have preferred for me to die so that we wouldn't have to be married anymore?" Naruto asked, his voice steady despite the hurt in his eyes.

Sakura looked…guilty.

"I see," Naruto said, his voice filled with a mix of disappointment and sadness.

"No Naruto! You don't SEE! You are one of my best friends and I didn't want to lose you! But I would rather not be married! I can't-" Sakura said before she got interrupted.

"I am not Muzan, Sakura," Naruto interjected.

"Why does everyone keep bringing him up?" Sakura asked, her voice filled with frustration.

"Because he is the reason why you will not let yourself love again. You won't even allow yourself to love someone like me. Someone who has always loved you and would do anything for you. All because of one lost man that broke your heart. I would never do that to you, though you seem to have no problem doing it to me, and without a warrant too," Naruto said, his voice filled with a mix of sadness and determination.

When had Naruto become mature enough to deal with something as touchy as this with this much patience?

"So, I guess I should answer your question. No, I will not divorce you or annul our marriage. You will be married to me until one of us dies. I am going to show you how wonderful love can be when you have it with the right man. Muzan was the wrong man. I am not. You can take it however you want to," Naruto said, his voice steady and his gaze unwavering.

"I will never be a wife to you, Naruto!" Sakura yelled, her frustration finally spilling over.

"That is your choice," Naruto replied calmly.

With that, she slammed the door as she stormed from the room. The silence that followed was deafening. Naruto was left alone, the weight of their conversation hanging heavy in the room. He had laid his heart on the line, and now there was nothing to do but wait and see if Sakura would ever be able to see him as more than just a friend.