Disclaimer: I do not own any of the content following this statement. All titles, names, and plots are owned by Masashi Kishimoto
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Alliance and Clashing Motives
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Ino rushed past the battlefield, her heart sinking at the sight of the devastation that surpassed even the vivid stories Naruto had shared with her. The clash with Orochimaru in his prime had left the landscape in ruins, a stark testament to the chaos that had unfolded. She scanned the surroundings, contemplating the path Sakura might have taken when Shikamaru sauntered over to her.
"Why are we even here? We still need to find a scroll," Shikamaru lazily questioned, his tone evoking the desire to shake him awake from his indifference.
Ino's gaze turned sharply towards Shikamaru, a mix of frustration and determination flickering in her eyes. With a resolute tone, she replied, "Because we have to find Team 7. They're our friends, and they need our help."
As she rose from her crouched position, Ino shot a pointed glare at Shikamaru, punctuating her words with a poke to his chest. The weight of their friendship and the urgency of the situation filled her voice. Without another word, she resumed her search, diligently tracing the edges of the battlefield for any traces of their missing comrades.
"This is the Chunin Exams, why do we need to find them?" Shikamaru inquired, his voice carrying a hint of curiosity, competing with the sound of Choji munching on chips.
Ino turned to face Shikamaru, her expression one of exasperation, how to tell the smartest man in her class that she knows team seven needs their help without him figuring out she knows something she shouldn't? Overall, she understood his skepticism, but she also knew the unbreakable bond they shared as a team, a bond that would grow over time and a friendship that she remembers they all shared with all of their class for a much longer time. Taking a calming breath, she explains, "Because they're our classmates, our friends, Shikamaru. We can't abandon them. It's about loyalty, unity, and standing by those who matter to us."
Thinking for a minute as they stared at each other before he turned away, "In that case why don't we go this way.", said Shikamaru walked off into the forest where he spotted footprints that Ino had missed.
They soon found an animal trail that showed signs of something, or more likely someone being dragged alone until they came to a small rise. Before reaching the top Shikamaru waved them to stop and lowered them to the ground to crawl up to the ridge line. Looking over he had a clear view of the back of a Sound Team squatting down in the tall grass talking as they looked down at something, Team Dosu if he remembers right, and he always remembers right.
As the rest of team ten crawled up they could overhear team Dosu talking.
"You think that's our target?" Zaku questioned, unable to believe his eyes as he peered down at a cave nestled in a tree, where a petite girl with long pink hair stood at the entrance, glancing around. She appeared fragile, as if a gust of wind could knock her over. Was this the team Orochimaru had assigned them to eliminate?
The idea of their elite team being sent to take down such seemingly weak opponents didn't make sense. Zaku found himself expressing doubt, rare for him. "I've got a bad feeling about this," he confessed, his thoughts turning inward.
Mocking Zaku's hesitation, Dosu chuckled. "You don't think you can handle her?" Dosu jeered, taunting his teammate.
Standing up, Zaku turned to face Dosu, allowing Ino to finally get a clear view of one member of Team Dosu. Zaku had spiky black hair, and dark eyes, and wore a beige shirt with black stripes and the kanji for death printed three times on the front. He also sported a snake-patterned scarf around his neck. At first glance, he seemed like any ordinary shinobi, but Ino remembered from 20 years ago that Zaku possessed hollow air tubes that extended through his arms and opened through his hands.
"I could take her down, even twenty of her. That's not the issue," Zaku retorted, getting in Dosu's face as the team leader stood up. Dosu's face was mostly covered in bandages, exposing only his left eye and eyebrow. He wore a large poncho with long sleeves, a snake-patterned scarf like Zaku's, a straw raincoat poking out from the back of his scarf, and a substantial amplifier on his right arm. His posture gave him a hunchbacked appearance.
Dosu confronted Zaku, displeased by the challenge to his leadership. He was willing to sever his other arm if Lord Orochimaru commanded it, and he didn't appreciate anyone questioning their lord's orders. "Then what is your point?" Dosu demanded, his gaze fixed on Zaku.
Interrupting their confrontation, Kin emerged from the grass and positioned herself between them. "Enough with this pointless pissing contest. We have a mission to complete," she intervened. Kin had fair skin, black eyes, and very long black hair that almost reached her calves. She tied a violet ribbon near the end of her hair. She wore a forehead protector, a pale green vest similar to a flak jacket, snake-patterned pants with a snake-patterned skirt over them, and a matching snake-patterned scarf around her neck, just like her teammates.
Brandishing a cluster of senbon needles between her fingers, Kin declared, "I can nail her forehead from here, and then we can take care of the rest. Let's move." Just as she prepared to throw the senbon at Sakura, the pink-haired girl unexpectedly turned and entered the cave to check on her comrades. Realizing their opportunity would come when she returned, Kin and her team silently agreed with her strategy and patiently waited.
Shikamaru tapped both his teammates on the shoulder, signaling them to follow his lead, and they slowly crawled back, distancing themselves from the scene. Once they were at a safe distance, Shikamaru devised a plan and quickly conveyed it to his teammates using hand signs and pointing. After finalizing their strategy, they silently crawled back towards the area where the Sound team was waiting, ready to spring their trap as soon as Sakura walked out of the cave to her death.
Shikamaru meticulously extended his shadow, skillfully maneuvering it to wrap around Dosu's legs, effectively immobilizing him. Simultaneously, Ino executed the Mind Body Switch Technique, seizing control of Kin's body. Taking advantage of her new host, Ino swiftly directed Kin's hand towards Dosu's neck, forcefully driving all the senbon needles into his flesh until they pierced through to the other side. Gasping for breath and choking on his own blood, Dosu summoned his final reserves of strength and struck Kin's head with the Resonating Echo Speaker on his right forearm, unleashing a powerful sound blast directly into her face as she lay on the ground.
Within a matter of seconds, the intense sequence of events unfolded. Dosu, desperately clutching his neck with his remaining hand, succumbed to his fatal wounds, his lifeblood seeping away. Meanwhile, Choji emerged from behind a small rise, hurtling through the air with remarkable speed. Utilizing his Human Bullet Tank technique, Choji barreled down upon Dosu, ruthlessly crushing him under his immense weight. Although Zaku narrowly evaded the attack, the impact disrupted his balance, leaving him disoriented and vulnerable.
Shikamaru could see that Ino was still recovering from the sound blast as she hadn't been able to leave Kin's body before being hit and moved forward to send his shadows at Zaku who jumped around trying his best to avoid being trapped like Dosu.
"You think you can defeat us? Your arrogance will be your downfall," Sakura retorted, her voice filled with determination.
Zaku sneered, his confidence unwavering. "I'm from Otogakure, far superior to the likes of you! Prepare to be crushed!"
As Zaku unleashed his powerful attack, Shikamaru valiantly attempted to defend himself. However, the force of the air pressure and sound waves sent him hurtling through the air, crashing onto the ground with a resounding thud.
"You always did talk too much.", said Sakura as she stood her ground and without hesitation, she struck him with a devastating blow, her fist colliding with his chest. The impact shattered his ribs, causing a gush of blood to spew from his back. Kaku crumpled to the ground, lifeless.
The battlefield fell into a momentary silence, the weight of their fallen foes palpable in the air. Sakura stood tall, her unwavering gaze surveying the scene. She knew there were more challenges to come, but it was clear she would remain unshaken. As team ten walked to her they could see she looked prepared to face whatever lay ahead.
"Wow, Sakura, I didn't know you had that kind of strength within you," Ino exclaimed, her voice laced with both admiration and intrigue.
Sakura met Ino's gaze, her expression serious and resolute. "During our mission in Wave, a lot happened, Ino. I had to let go of my inhibitions and fight with all my might. It was a matter of survival, not just for me, but for the people we were sworn to protect."
Ino nodded, sensing the weight of Sakura's words. As they both approached the edge of the cave, Sakura checked on Naruto, her attention then shifting to the shadows where Sasuke remained. Perched on a tree root, Ino couldn't help but feel a surge of curiosity, prompting her to delve deeper.
Sakura began, her voice tinged with a hint of anger. I was captured by a group of ruthless criminals. They planned to sell me into slavery, in a brothel. It was then I learn to do what had to be done."
Ino's gaze softened her admiration for Sakura growing. "That's incredible, Sakura. I can't imagine what you went through, but you overcome it."
Looking up at Ino Sakura smiled and then said, "What happen to you Ino, no leggings, and I can see your thong from here.", joked Sakura as Ino blushed. The plan was to show off her legs to Naruto, not Sakura. Now if that future husband of hers would just wake up she could put her plan into action.
Sakura's playful remark had caught Ino off guard, causing her cheeks to flush with embarrassment. She hastily adjusted her skirt, feeling a mix of annoyance and amusement.
"Oh, come on, Sakura! That was not intentional," Ino retorted, trying to regain her composure. "I just wanted to look good for... well, you know who."
Sakura's laughter filled the air, accompanied by a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Naruto, huh? I've told you before, Ino, he doesn't see you in that way. Showing off your legs won't be enough to capture his attention, believe me."
Ino felt a mix of irritation and curiosity as she studied Sakura's knowing gaze. There was something more to the story of their Wave mission that Sakura wasn't sharing, and it was driving Ino crazy with worry. Why was Sakura suddenly so interested in Naruto?
Ino's blush deepened, and she playfully nudged Sakura's arm. "Enough teasing, Sakura. We have a mission to focus on, and Naruto needs to wake up soon if we are all going to make it to the tower."
Sakura nodded, her smile fading into a more determined expression. "You're right, Ino. We can't afford any distractions, we still need to get a heaven scroll. Let's stay focused and get Naruto back on his feet."
Crunch, crunch. The sound of Choji devouring his chips filled the air as he nonchalantly waved a scroll in his hand. "You mean a heaven scroll like this?" he mumbled, his mouth still full.
Sakura's eyes widened with surprise as she realized they had found what they were looking for. She eagerly reached out and accepted the scroll from Choji. "Thank you, Choji. This completes our set, Now let's get my guys up so we can get out of here," she said, a sense of determination in her voice.
Just as they were about to celebrate their victory, a low groaning sound echoed from the back of the cave. The team turned their attention towards the source of the noise, their expressions shifting from excitement to concern, both girls remembered what Sasuke did the first time he woke up after being bitten by Orochimaru but this time there wasn't any enemy to take out his rage on.
"Sakura my blooms, I received your message and am here to save you.", shouted Lee as he came running in the small camp stepping over the bodies of the fallen without even looking down.
"Dam, now he shows up.", said Sakura under her breath as she was expecting him to reach her long before team ten showed up. Now she had to explain why she put that note on the squirrel for Lee to find.
As Sasuke burst out of the cave, he charged at Lee, launching a flurry of swift strikes. Lee, always ready for a fight and fueled by a desire to prove himself against Sasuke, swiftly evaded Sasuke's attacks with agile footwork.
Lee, his confusion replaced by an unwavering determination, declared, "Sasuke, I won't let you stand in my way! I'll prove my strength! I will win and prove to Sakura I am the one for her."
With a surge of power, Lee activated the first gate, unleashing his enhanced speed and strength. He launched a series of lightning-fast punches and kicks, aiming to overpower Sasuke and end this fight quickly.
Sasuke, filled with an unknown rage, retaliated with fire jutsu, engulfing the battlefield in blazing flames. The scorching heat threatened to consume both fighters. Half of Sasuke's face and arms were covered in black lines of the curse seal as he fought mindlessly.
Undeterred, Lee countered with earth-breaking blows, shattering the ground beneath them. Each strike sent shockwaves rippling through the air, intensifying the clash and pushing Sasuke back until the two stood facing each other over the now burning field.
Running straight at each other their battle reached a fever pitch as they exchanged blow after blow, their movements blurring in a display of sheer agility and raw power. The impact of their attacks echoed through the battlefield.
Lee focused on his goal of winning Sakura's heart, ignored Sasuke's actions, and intensified his assault. His attacks became more precise and ferocious, driven by an unyielding desire to prove his worth.
The battle raged on, both combatants pushing themselves to the limit. Lee's unwavering resolve to prove himself clashed with Sasuke's cures seal powered anger, creating a chaotic spectacle of power against will.
As Sasuke relentlessly attacked Lee, Ino exchanged a knowing glance with Sakura. They both understood that a confrontation between these two was inevitable. Lee's anger burned fiercely, fueled by Sasuke's theft of his move before the Chunin Exams. Meanwhile, Sasuke's mind was clouded by the malevolent influence of the cursed seal.
Just when it seemed that the battle would escalate further, Naruto stirred and moved out to the cave entrance to stand next to Ino. His eyes widened with surprise as he observed the intense clash before him. Seeing that everyone else was just watching he knew it was up to him to put a stop to the fight.
"Naruto!" Sakura called out, turning to look behind her relief evident in her voice. "We need you to stop them. Only you can reach Sasuke."
Naruto nodded, "Don't worry Sakua-chan I will stop this". With a burst of speed, he rushed towards the battling duo, positioning himself between them. His presence alone drew their attention, momentarily halting their fierce exchange.
Lee, fueled by his anger and thirst for revenge, was momentarily taken aback by Naruto's sudden appearance. Sasuke, consumed by the curse seal's influence, glared at Naruto with a mix of hostility and confusion but with nothing fighting him the curse seal slowly backed off and withdrew to the mark on his neck.
"Enough!" Naruto's voice rang out as he punched both of them in the chest pushing them back a dozen feet or so, as they recovered he yelled out, "This fight won't solve anything. We're all friends, we are all from the same village and we need to be here for each other not fight for nothing."
Lee's anger gradually subsided as he listened to Naruto's words, his gaze never leaving Sasuke. Sasuke, though still conflicted, seemed to show a hint of recognition and familiarity in his eyes as they faded from Red back to Black.
Ino stepped forward, her voice joining with Naruto's as a voice of reason. "Naruto's right. We've all been through so much together. We can't let our anger tear us apart."
A moment of silence enveloped the battlefield as their words sank in. The tension slowly dissipated, replaced by a collective desire to just move on as the rest of Lee's team came into the battlefield looking at the dead and dying.
"Lee come on, we still need a scroll.", yelled out Tenten as Neji just shook his head at the chaos.
Crunch, crunch, "What are we going to do about this one,", Crunch, crunch, said Choji eating his chips as fast as he could to replenish the chakra he used up. He was standing next to Kin's body and as she groaned and rolled onto her back it was clear she was alive but in bad shape.
As Kin groaned and rolled onto her back, Choji stood beside her, devouring his chips with a voracious appetite. The sound of his crunching filled the air as he contemplated their next move. It was evident that Kin was alive but severely injured.
Sakura knelt beside Kin, "We can't just leave her like this," she said, her voice cold but calculating, this could be the evidence she needs to convince Kakashi to talk to the Hokage.
Ino stepped forward, her gaze focused. "We need to stabilize her condition and get her medical attention, they must have full medical staff at the tower," she said, unknown to Sakura, Ino was thinking the same thing, with Kin talking about her real mission they could get the Hokage involved in a way that did shine any unwanted like on her.
Nodding in agreement, Sakura assessed Kin's injuries, she did what she could with her limited chakra reserves, but still having to hide her knowledge of medical jutsu added to the complexity. "We'll have to carry her to the tower and seek medical help there, if she doesn't get treated soon she is not going to make it," she stated firmly.
Choji swallowed the last of his chips and wiped his hands, his expression determined. "I'll carry her," he offered, his voice unwavering.
Sakura and Ino exchanged a brief nod of gratitude, appreciating Choji's willingness to help. Working together, they carefully lifted Kin, supporting her weakened body. With kin balanced on Choji's shoulders, they began their journey to the tower, their steps fueled by their unknown agreement that this was the key they needed to change out of the exams.
The crunching of chips echoed softly in the background as they navigated their way through the terrain, each step taken brought them one step closer to ensuring Kin's survival. In their hearts, the resolve to protect their village from burning down, dove them forward on their path both time travelers coming to the same conclusion that it was worth trying to change the future.
Naruto had run off with a small army of clones to scout ahead with Sasuke and Shikamaru acting as rear guards, Ino and Sakura found themselves alone for the first time in months as they walked behind Choji who had his head down and was singularly focused on following the trail Naruto was leaving.
Under the ominous canopy of thorns, Sakura and Ino walked in hushed tones, their voices barely above a whisper.
"How did you guys manage to track us down so quickly?" Sakura inquired, her voice laced with suspicion.
Ino responded, her words dripping with a subtle hint of mischief, "It wasn't too difficult. You guys left a blazing trail of destruction in the forest behind you."
Sakura shot a sideways glance at Ino, her eyes narrowing as she tried to unravel the tangled web of Ino's motives. She knew Ino's team had entered the Forest of Death miles away, deep in the southern expanse. To reach them in such a short span, they would have had to travel directly north, away from the safety of the tower. But why? What game was Ino playing?
Sakura's curiosity got the better of her, and she prodded Ino further. "Ino, why did you and your team specifically come all the way here? There must be a reason."
Ino shifted uncomfortably, her gaze momentarily flickering away before meeting Sakura's eyes again. "It's complicated, Sakura. I... I can't fully explain it right now," she hesitated, her voice tinged with a hint of longing.
Sakura sensed Ino's reluctance and concern, realizing there was more to the situation than met the eye. She softened her tone, her voice filled with empathy. "Ino, you know you can trust me. We've been friends for so long. If something is bothering you, I'm here to listen and help."
Ino's heart fluttered, torn between her desire to confide in Sakura and her apprehension about revealing her secret. She glanced away, her mind consumed by thoughts of her time-traveler status and her unwavering love for Naruto. Every waking thought was filled with the desire to marry him, but sharing such information would be too much for Sakura to comprehend.
With a forced smile, Ino replied, "It's nothing, Sakura. Just some personal matters I need to sort out. I promise, once everything is settled, I'll explain everything. For now, let's focus on the task at hand."
Sakura nodded, her concern evident in her eyes. She respected Ino's need for privacy but vowed to be there for her when the time was right. The mysteries surrounding Ino's behavior only deepened, and Sakura couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to this story than she knew.
Ino walked beside Sakura, her gaze fixed on the path ahead as her mind churned with conflicting emotions. She couldn't help but question Sakura's motives, unsure if she could truly trust her with the truth. The weight of her secret burdened her every waking thought, a forbidden desire that consumed her.
Sakura's innocent curiosity pricked at Ino's defenses, testing her resolve. She knew the consequences of revealing her true intentions, her clandestine journey through time to claim her rightful place. But such knowledge was not meant for Sakura's ears, not yet. The stakes were too high, and the game had only just begun, the Chunin exams were just the first of very many tests her dear Naruto would have to pass before he becomes the Hokage she loved.
Ino's voice dripped with calculated nonchalance as she responded, "Oh, Sakura, it's a tangled web we weave.", letting out a short laugh Ino continued, "There are reasons, it's all about fate and destiny, and secrets lie close to my heart. These secrets are not easily shared."
She watched Sakura closely, searching for any hint of suspicion or doubt. This game required a deft hand and careful maneuvering. She knew Sakura was smart, smarter them most by half but could she trust her at this point, Ino knew all too well the cost of misplaced loyalty.
"Ino you don't have to talk to me in riddles, I am here for you. It's just you have been acting strange and I only wanted to know why.", said Sakura making a point to make eye contact with Ino to gauge her reaction.
Sakura's concern and sincerity tugged at Ino's emotions, a whisper of genuine friendship that threatened to unravel her carefully constructed facade. But Ino resisted, her eyes filled with shadows and her words veiled in mystery. She needed to find a way to make Naruto hers but unlike her past that was never to be, this time Sakura wasn't chasing Sasuke into oblivion. How was she to remove her best friend and still do no harm?
'It is a labyrinth my dear young, Sakura, woven within the tapestry of my crazy existence. Some secrets must remain buried until the time is right. Patience, my dear friend, for the truth will reveal itself when the time is right.', thought Ino as she stepped over some leftover traps from some shinobi battle from years ago judging by the look of them.
Ino's lips curved into a sly smile, concealing her true intentions. She couldn't risk exposing the depths of her desires, the yearning to seize her rightful place by Naruto's side. It was a game she could not afford to lose after all. Was she willing to do what she must to reclaim her happiness or was it already too late?
With an air of calculated mystery, Ino reassured Sakura, "Let us focus on getting to the tower, Sakura. We can find time to talk before the next round of preliminary matches begins."
'Preliminary matches?', thought Sakura, how does she know there will be preliminary matches? That wasn't announced until all the teams reached the tower. Now Sakura's worry for a friend turns into suspicion as she brushed a fingertip along Ino's arm sending an almost imperceptible wave of chakra into Ino's system. When the echo of chakra returned she knew, yes this was Ino but not, something was not right. Yes, they would talk at the tower and Ino had better be ready to start telling the truth.
"Naruto? What are you doing with all of those?", asked Sakura as they walked up the path to the entrance of the tower they found Naruto, more like a dozen Naruto's all grinning like a fool placing scrolls into a small pile to the side of the gate.
"Sakura-chan!", yelled out Naruto," you said it would be a good idea if we gathered as many scrolls as we could so I send out as many clones as I could and I found all of these.", said Naruto proudly pointing at the growing pile of scrolls as the last clone deposited his on the top and dispelled.
"Oh my god, look!", said Ino as they drew closer to get a good look at Naruto's collection. Most of the scrolls looked old but the one she was pointing at had a skeleton's hand clutching the scroll. Only three seemed to be from this round of testing and they were all earth scrolls.
"It would seem that they don't change the test very often.", said Shikamaru as he joined the little group hovering over the scrolls.
"We're wasting our time, let's go.", said Sasuke as he walked over to the gate and shoved it open, "come on, this is a team test isn't it? Get in here so we can move on."
With those words, Sakura exchanged a knowing smile with Ino before she and Naruto entered the chamber. The heavy gate slammed shut behind them, sealing them inside. In the dimly lit room, Sasuke handed Sakura a scroll, and together they carefully unrolled it on the floor, releasing a dense cloud of smoke that billowed around them.
As the smoke began to dissipate, a gentle gust of wind jutsu swept through the chamber, clearing the air and revealing the figure of Iruka Sensei. He had been summoned by the unfurling of the scrolls.
"You've made it," Iruka Sensei said, his voice filled with pride. "I am truly impressed by your growth as a ninja. Come with me now. Rest in the tower. We still have two more days until the conclusion of the second exam."
With a sense of accomplishment and relief, the group followed Iruka Sensei and as they exited the room Sakura stopped Iruka as she watch Sasuke walk away and Naruto turn back and wait for her.
"You have been assigned room seven and you can….", said Iruka as he walked down the hall as if he was back in the classroom giving a lesson as Sakura cut him off.
"Iruka sensei, something happen out there, we were attacked by Orochimaru and then a team of sound shinobi tried to kill us, they said they were under orders from Orochimaru. Team ten has one of them as a prisoner but she needs medical help badly.", said Sakura as fast as could before Iruka had a chance to stop her. Now with the full story out she waited as he processed what she said.
"How do you even know it was Orochimaru?" Iruka questioned, his brow furrowing with concern as a newly graduated Genin shouldn't even know that name as what he did was an S-rank secret from 20 years ago. He beckoned one of the other waiting chunin instructors to join them, wanting to gather more information before making any rash decisions.
Naruto stepped forward, his voice filled with determination. "He was a big pale guy with snakes everywhere. He claimed to have been on a Genin team with Tsunade."
Iruka pondered Naruto's words for a brief moment, realizing the gravity of the situation. He swiftly turned to the chunin, urgency in his voice. "Summon a medical team immediately. Then, inform the Hokage that Orochimaru has been sighted in the forest."
Without wasting a second, the chunin dashed off at full speed, carrying out Iruka's orders. With a serious expression, Iruka faced the two Genin still present in the hallway, Sakura and Naruto. His tone brooked no argument.
"I need both of you to find Kakashi and relay everything you've just told me. Time is of the essence. I'll stay here and await Team Ten. Now, go!"
Finding Kakashi wasn't difficult, as he was in room seven with Sasuke, the Uchiha avenger. Sasuke was recounting his encounter with Orochimaru, revealing the curse mark on his neck to Kakashi. As Naruto and Sakura entered the room, they could see the seriousness of the situation.
"Kakashi Sensei, we need to talk to you about what happened," Naruto exclaimed, his voice filled with urgency.
Calmly, Kakashi responded, "Take a breath and relax, I already heard everything from Sasuke." His attention shifted as he noticed the expression on Sakura's face. Something seemed out of place.
"Is there something else you need to share with me?" Kakashi asked, moving to the center of the room, leaving Sasuke sitting on his bed.
"We managed to capture one of the Sound Genin," Sakura spoke up, her voice tinged with urgency. She knew that lying was necessary and she decided she had to do what she could to ensure the safety of as many people as possible. Her original plan of avoiding interference with history had vanished, replaced by the need to take action. As soon as she was done here she was going to confront Ino and see how she knew what was going to happen.
Kakashi's visible eye widened slightly at Sakura's words, a hint of concern flickering in his gaze. "They were discussing an attack on the village during the chunin exams finals," Sakura continued, her tone sobering as she held firm, determined to relay the information and protect her friends and the village they called home.
"The sound village and its allies are planning to attack once the finals begin.", said Sakura as forcibly as possible.
The room fell into a heavy silence as Kakashi absorbed Sakura's revelation.
Kakashi's gaze hardened as Sakura continued with her claims. He crossed his arms over his chest as he leaned against the wall, a skeptical expression etched on his face. Sasuke's account of the encounter with Orochimaru had already tested his patience, with his claims of almost defeating Orochimaru but for his team getting in the way, the boy was delusional at best and now Sakura's mention of a phantom village's allies attacking Konohagakure pushed his skepticism further.
"Attacking Konohagakure, you say?" Kakashi's voice dripped with doubt, his boredom palpable. "The Sound Village and its allies? Sakura, you must understand that the Sound Village is a fledgling village, barely a blip on the radar. Reports indicate their size is small, and they've sent all their Genin to the exams. It's difficult to fathom them posing a significant threat to our village, even with these so-called allies."
Sakura's resolve hardened, her eyes narrowing. She refused to let Kakashi dismiss her so easily. "Kakashi-sensei, I know it sounds unlikely, but there was a level of conviction in their words. We can't afford to ignore any potential danger. This could be a calculated move, a way to catch us off guard."
Kakashi's bored expression wavered for a moment, a hint of irritation breaking through. He turned away, seemingly uninterested in Sakura's words. "Sakura, I understand your concern, but we can't jump to conclusions based on hearsay. As a ninja, it's important to distinguish between real threats and mere speculation. If our village's safety is at stake, we must prioritize factual information. Not the over-exaggerated claims by some Genin trying to prove themselves"
Sakura clenched her fists, her determination undeterred. "Kakashi-sensei, I wouldn't be telling you this if I didn't think it was worth investigating. We should at least gather intelligence, and interrogate the prisoner, It's our duty to protect the village."
"Prisoner?" Kakashi's voice was laced with incredulity as he interrupted Sakura's statement. He took a step closer, his gaze piercing. "You mean the Genin that was brought in for medical attention? The very same Genin we invited to participate in the Chunin Exams?"
Sakura's eyes widened, realizing her mistake, she had pushed too far and had let her emotions get the best of her, clouding her judgment. She needed to back out of this before she said too much, she took a deep breath, trying to regain her composure. "Kakashi-sensei, I... I apologize. You're right, they are participating in the exams, and their Jonin Sensei must be looking after them."
Kakashi's expression softened slightly, his voice more calm but firm. "Sakura, it's important not to jump to conclusions without concrete evidence. We must trust in the integrity of the Chunin Exams and our fellow shinobi. As a team, it's crucial that you maintain a level head and think critically." Kakashi moved to look at Naruto who had been watching the exchange in an unusual silence. Seeing the normally loud ninja didn't have anything to say Kakashi turned back to face Sakura, his gaze stern but not yet convinced. "I appreciate your loyalty to Konohagakure, Sakura, but let's focus on the immediate task at hand. The Chunin Exams continue, and our priority is to guide Sasuke and the rest of the team to success. Once that's achieved, we can assess the situation."
As Sakura listened to Kakashi's words, she couldn't help but feel a pang of frustration. She understood the depth of Kakashi's loyalty to his long-dead friend when it came to Sasuke as the last Uchiha, and she respected his unwavering trust in the village and its shinobi. However, she also knew that these very qualities are what are being exploited by someone as cunning as Orochimaru.
Deep down, Sakura was well aware that Orochimaru's plans were in motion. The threat loomed over them, and time was of the essence. But convincing Kakashi to see beyond his blind spot and question the safety of their village would be a challenge in itself. If Kakashi was this hard to convince to look under the underneath then what of the other Jonin, even the Hokage if by some miracle she could talk to him?
"Now you all have had a hard couple of days, it took a lot to get this far so quickly so rest, get something to eat and we can talk again in the morning.", said Kakashi as he gave them a little two finger salute as he pulled out his little orange book and walked out the door.
"You sound crazy," Sasuke scoffed dismissively, rising from his seat and striding towards the door. His focus shifted from the discussion at hand to his own personal craving for fresh tomatoes.
Sakura watched Sasuke's retreating figure, a mix of frustration and disappointment washing over her. She had hoped that he, of all people after getting the curse seal, would understand the importance of the situation. But it seemed that his own priorities and desires took precedence over everything like always. For the millionth time, she wondered what she saw in him when she was younger.
"I don't think you're crazy, Sakura-chan," Naruto said, his voice filled with a hint of earnestness. It was a rare moment of support from him, and Sakura appreciated it.
Sakura turned her attention to Naruto, grateful for his willingness to listen. "Thank you, Naruto. I know it's hard to believe, but I overheard their conversation by chance. I stumbled upon them while they were discussing their plans in a secluded area of the forest. They didn't notice me, and I couldn't risk revealing myself."
Naruto scratched the back of his head, trying to process the information. The residual headache from his clone technique fading, allowing him to focus better. "So, you heard them talking about attacking the village, but how did you know it was the Sound Village if you didn't even know who they were?"
Now Sakura felt trapped, like a pawn in a dangerous game. Of all the people to question her and potentially unravel her plans, she didn't expect Naruto, her loyal teammate, and hopefully her husband once again. His unwavering trust in her made it so hard to lie to him, and she knew she had to act swiftly to find an escape from his blunt interrogation.
Summoning her inner strength, Sakura's emerald eyes narrowed as she sifted through her thoughts, desperately seeking a strategic solution. She understood the gravity of the situation—losing Naruto's trust could shatter the bond they had forged, potentially jeopardizing not only the chunin exams but also their shared future. She knew she had to tread carefully, ensuring every word she spoke was laced with a calculated conviction.
"Naruto," Sakura began, her voice steady and strong, "I appreciate your trust in me. It means more than you know. But certain aspects of our predicament require a delicate approach. I didn't reveal everything for the sake of safeguarding our team and protecting those we hold dear."
Naruto's cerulean eyes shimmered with a mixture of confusion at her choice of words and concern she may have hit her head. His knitted brows reflected his need for answers as he leaned in, waiting for Sakura to continue. Ever since graduation Sakura had been acting strange and would talk to him endlessly about the future when they should be focusing on the here and now.
"I promise, Naruto. We'll face all the coming challenges together. Our bond is unbreakable, and I swear our future will be built on trust and honesty. ", said Sakura hoping he would understand what she was saying between the words
Naruto's gaze softened, but curiosity continued to flicker in his eyes. "But Sakura, why didn't you tell me? We are a team, and we should face this together." Feeling she was talking in circles he decided to give her one more chance.
Sakura met Naruto's gaze, her expression filled with emotion. She needed to make him understand, to convey her intentions without losing his trust.
"Naruto, our friendship means the world to me. I cherish our teamwork and trust more than anything. But there are times when we must shoulder burdens alone, for the sake of our mission and the safety of our loved ones. It's about protecting the village as a whole, even if it means keeping certain things hidden."
She paused, searching for the right words to convey her sincerity.
"I didn't keep this from you to hurt you or undermine our trust. It was a decision I made to safeguard our future. Sometimes, as shinobi, we have to make tough choices and bear the weight of secrets. I believe in our strength and our ability to face challenges together, but there are limits to what we can share openly."
Sakura hoped Naruto could see the sincerity in her eyes, the purpose that drove her actions.
"I want nothing more than to stand by your side, Naruto, and face whatever comes our way. But some things must remain hidden for now. Trust that I have our best interests at heart, and know that I'll always be there for you when you need me."
She held her breath, hoping her words would reach him, bridging the gap between them and reaffirming their unbreakable bond.
"You are hiding more than this from me Sakura, I hate people that lie and I get the feeling that you don't even know yourself anymore.", said Naruto who then turned and walked out the door leaving a shocked and stupefied Sakura staring at his back as he walked away.
Sakura's heart sank as Naruto's words pierced through her, leaving her stunned and desperate to bridge the growing rift between them. She knew she had to find a way to make him understand, to restore the unyielding bond they had forged over countless battles.
"Naruto, please!" Sakura pleaded, her voice filled with a mixture of anguish and fear. "I never wanted to hide anything from you, but I thought I could protect you by handling this alone."
Naruto turned to face her, his eyes narrowed with a mix of frustration and confusion. "Protect me? Sakura, we're a team. We're supposed to face things together, no matter how tough they may be. Your protecting me almost cost us the mission on the bridge remember?"
Her fists clenched at her sides, Sakura fought back tears, her voice trembling with raw honesty. "I know, Naruto, that was a mistake I can't take back. I realize now that I underestimated your strength back then. But Orochimaru is cunning, and I didn't want to risk anyone else getting hurt. I thought I could handle this on my own."
Naruto's expression softened slightly, his gaze wavering as he took in her genuine remorse.
"I've seen what Orochimaru is capable of," Sakura continued, her voice steadier. "And I couldn't bear the thought of you or anyone else being subjected to his twisted plans. But I understand now that I should have trusted you more."
Naruto's brows furrowed, a mixture of frustration and longing in his eyes. "Sakura, you don't have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. We're a team for a reason. We fight together, we protect each other."
Tears welled up in Sakura's eyes as she nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. "I know, Naruto. And I'm sorry. I'm sorry for underestimating you and for not having faith in you. I promise you, from this moment on, I will trust in our strength as a team and face whatever challenges come our way together."
Silence hung in the air as Naruto stared at her, his gaze searching for the sincerity behind her words. Slowly, he nodded, his expression softening with a glimmer of understanding. He still had his doubts but she was still the Sakura-chan he chased after all those years.
"Alright, Sakura. We're in this together," Naruto said, his gaze piercing into Sakura's eyes as he searched for any trace of deception. Years of betrayal and shattered trust had made him cautious, unwilling to blindly believe in empty words. "But remember, trust isn't just given—it's earned. Let's prove to each other that we're always there, no matter what."
A flicker of hope ignited within Sakura's heart as she nodded, her fear of losing Naruto driving her to say or do anything to keep him.
"Yes, Naruto. I'll do whatever it takes to earn back your trust. We'll face this together", said Sakura, this was spinning out of her control and she didn't know what to do about it.
Ino stood outside of the medical ward waiting for her chance to 'talk' to the sound shinobi they had brought to the tower. She knew the village was attacked, it was one of the turning points in her life but how, who, where, were all unknown to her. So many things had happened over the years, from the Pain attached to the great shinobi war that this part of her life had faded into the past.
"What are you doing here princess?", asked Inoichi as he walked up to the medical ward.
"Hi Daddy, I was just waiting to see how the sound girl is doing.", said Ino as she turned to flash a smile at her father to distract him from her true intentions.
"I will take care of Kin, she is my student after all." stated a tall, slender Jonin, standing alongside Ino's father. As Ino's eyes fell upon him, her heart nearly skipped a beat. It was none other than the Jonin sensei of the Sound team, a figure she had come to dread and fear—Orochimaru himself. His presence was almost suffocating, and she could hardly believe how close she was to the notorious rogue ninja.
Orochimaru stood tall, his height surpassing that of her father. A wide straw hat adorned his head, casting a shadow over his face, which was partially concealed by a scarf. Clad in a plain gray shirt tucked into black pants, with a cloth resembling a belt draped around his waist, he emitted an aura of darkness and foreboding—an aura that sent shivers down Ino's spine.
While everyone around him seemed oblivious to the sinister energy he exuded, engaging in cheerful conversations and smiles, Ino alone could sense the underlying presence of death. It was a feeling she couldn't shake off, as if the specter of doom lingered in his very presence. And now, here he stood, making his way into the medical ward with a purpose that sent a chill through her veins.
"Daddy, why did you bring him here?" Ino's voice trembled with a mixture of anxiety and confusion as she clung tightly to her father's arm, seeking an anchor in the face of this unsettling presence that had entered their midst. Every fiber of her being screamed at her to run away, to escape the impending danger that seemed to loom in the air. She had to force herself to remain, to confront the enigma before her.
As the Jonin reached out and placed his hand upon Kin's chest, a surge of fear coursed through Ino's veins. The unconscious girl stirred abruptly, her eyes widening with a mixture of shock and fear. At that moment, Ino could see the vulnerability etched across Kin's face as she gazed up into the eyes of her sensei—the very eyes that held secrets and a darkness that sent chills down Ino's spine.
"It's the normal process to bring the sensei to any student that is wounded, you know that.", said Inoichi looking down at his daughter, "but the real question is why are you here? You didn't answer me."
Inoichi's voice held a mixture of concern and curiosity as he looked down at his daughter. The worry lines etched on his face deepened, hinting at the weight of his responsibilities as a father and the head of the T&A department. Ino felt a lump forming in her throat, knowing she couldn't reveal the true reason behind her unease. She had to choose her words carefully, weaving a tale that would satisfy her father without exposing the truth.
"I... I had a feeling something wasn't right, Daddy," Ino replied, her voice trembling slightly. "I sensed a presence, someone I've encountered before. It's hard to explain, but I couldn't shake off the feeling that something bad might happen soon."
Inoichi's brow furrowed as he studied his daughter's face, searching for any hint of the hidden truth. He had always admired her intuition and perceptiveness, traits that made her a promising kunoichi. But this time, her words seemed guarded, leaving him with a lingering sense of unease. Ever since that day, she woke up screaming her mind has been blocked from him and every day he wondered what was hiding behind that barrier.
"Ino, you need to be cautious," he said, his tone filled with concern. "If you sense something off or encounter any danger, don't hesitate to reach out to your teammates or call for backup. We're in the middle of the village, you are as safe as can be with all the Jonin in the tower right now."
"You can count on me, Daddy," Ino replied resolutely. "I'll remain watchful and rely on my teammates. If anything seems out of the ordinary, I'll make sure to inform the necessary authorities." Ino felt torn, about how to tell her father that his trust in the Jonins of the village was misplaced, Orochimaru was standing not far away and not one Jonin had noticed him. How could he not feel the evil dripping off of the sound Jonin as he walked by them with Kin under his arm?
Her father didn't even look at the sound Jonin as he nodded approvingly at Ino's unwavering commitment to the village's well-being. He knew he could trust her to handle herself and fulfill her duty as a shinobi of the village. With a brief squeeze on her shoulder, he offered a word of encouragement.
"Stay strong, Ino, and remember that the safety of our fellow shinobi rests on each one of us. Konohagakure is known for working together and so stay alert, we can overcome any challenge by working together. I have faith in your abilities, and I'm proud to have you as my daughter."
Ino smiled up at her father knowing there was nothing she could say at this time. It was like a wide area genutsu was covering the whole tower blinding everyone from seeing what was going on. She had two days to figure something out before the next round of preliminary matches, she hoped she wasn't assigned to fight Sakura again. This time she planned on making it to the next stage of the exams if only to be there to help Naruto. She planned on doing whatever she had to do to win.
Ino's smile remained fixed on her face as she exchanged parting words with her father. As she watched him leave, her mind buzzed with thoughts and plans. There was something happening, something she couldn't quite put her finger on. The tower seemed shrouded in an unusual atmosphere as if secrets whispered within its walls. She couldn't or more like wouldn't admit that a genutsu would go undetected by so many high-level shinobi in one place.
Lost in her contemplations, Ino wandered through the corridors of the tower, lost in her own world. But fate had other plans, for as she turned a corner, she nearly collided with Naruto and Sakura, her fellow teammates. It was clear by the look of them that something had happened between them.
"Whoa, Ino! Watch where you're going!" Naruto exclaimed, his voice filled with his characteristic exuberance. His smile made her heart beat a little faster and she restrained herself from hugging him close.
Sakura's eyes widened in surprise as she recognized Ino as if she knew what thoughts were flying around Ino's mind. "Ino? What are you doing here?"
Ino quickly composed herself, but an underlying tension lingered. Sakura felt a wave of concern, the look on Ino's face when Naruto smiled at her filled her mind with swirling thoughts of Ino's possible affection for Naruto. Something seemed to be brewing between them, and Sakura feared what complications that could cause for her plans for the future. For her part, Ino's thoughts raced as she carefully selected her words, aware of the delicate balance of their friendship and rivalry. She hid her inner turmoil behind a casual demeanor, determined to avoid any potential conflicts stemming from her emotions.
"I was just... taking a stroll, you know. It's good to clear your head sometimes," Ino replied with a nonchalant shrug, trying to appear as though her presence here was a mere coincidence.
Naruto scratched the back of his head, a hint of curiosity in his eyes. "Really? That's weird. We were just on our way to grab something to eat. Want to join us?"
Ino hesitated for a moment, contemplating the offer. This could be an opportunity to gauge their reactions, to see if they noticed anything going on in the tower. With a nod, she agreed, tucking her suspicions away for now.
"Sure, why not? A little break sounds good," Ino replied, walking alongside Naruto and Sakura as they made their way toward the cafeteria.
As they walked and engaged in light-hearted conversation, Ino couldn't help but feel a mix of relief and apprehension. She was grateful for the familiar presence of her friends, the bond they shared was complex but growing. Yet, beneath the surface, a sense of dread and uncertainty lingered, she so wanted to find time to be with Naruto alone but Sakura was never more than a few steps away.
Ino knew that time was not on her side. She had to find answers, to uncover the truth that lay hidden within the confines of the tower. The chunin exams held more than just personal aspirations; they were intertwined with something much larger, something that could affect the fate of their village.
For now, Ino would bide her time, gathering information and observing the events for there was much more at stake than the title of chunin. It felt like the safety and prosperity of the village rested on her shoulders.
As they entered the bustling cafeteria, Ino's gaze scanned the room, searching for any signs of abnormality. She spotted Sasuke in a corner with a plate of tomatoes doing his best to ignore everyone in the room. She couldn't shake the feeling that danger lurked just out of sight, waiting for the opportune moment to strike. Ino felt like there was something just out of sight she was missing.
As they settled down at a table with their trays of food, Ino resolved to make the most of this moment, cherishing the friendship she shared with Naruto and Sakura. Naruto had done his best to balance as many bowls of Ramen on his tray as possible when he spotted Ichiraku cooking in the back.
"It looks like there is something on your mind.", said Sakura as she picked at her food to the sound of Naruto slurping his noodles.
Taking a glance at Naruto seeing he was singly focused on his third bowl of ramen, Ino leaned forward to say, "I was the medical ward, Kin, that sound Genin we bought in was taken away by her Jonin sensei. There was something about him that felt off. It was weird the way she just woke up fully heal after he touched her."
Sakura's narrowed her eyes looking around before saying, "That is strange, was he a med-nin of some kind? I was hoping we would get a chance to talk to her."
"I tried, but my father said it wasn't our place," Ino admitted, her voice tinged with frustration. Taking a deep breath, she took a daring leap and added, "There's something peculiar about this tower. It's as if everyone is oddly indifferent to your encounter with Orochimaru and what happened to Sasuke."
Sakura fought to hide her surprise, but the truth echoed in her mind. Kakashi's reaction had been subdued, and apart from Iruka, no one seemed genuinely concerned when they shared their ordeal of being attacked by Orochimaru.
"I think you're onto something," Sakura agreed, her eyes scanning the room filled with people calmly enjoying their meals. "When we told Kakashi Sensei, he didn't care that much."
"Could it be some sort of genjutsu affecting everyone?" Ino wondered aloud, searching for answers.
"I'm not sure. I can't sense anything, but there's definitely something going on," Sakura replied, her unease growing with each passing moment.
Pushing his fifth bowl to the center of the table Naruto let out a burp of satisfaction, any day that ended with Ichiraku Ramen was a good day. Seeing the two girls looking at him with that same look on their faces he pushed back from the table.
"If it's a Genutsu then I know who we need to talk to.", said Naruto getting up and walking across the dining room to set across from Sasuke. The two girls quickly got up forgetting their meals to join him. They both knew that went Naruto finally did notice something he would take action.
"What do you losers want.", said Sasuke as he looked over his half-finished plate of tomatoes at the small group that had joined him.
"No one cares that you got bitten by Orochimaru, so we suspect there's a genjutsu in the tower," Naruto blurted out, getting straight to the point. "I thought you could use your Spooky eyes to check it out."
"It's called the Sharingan, not spooky," Sasuke retorted, shooting Naruto a glare.
"Spooky, Sharingan, whatever. Is there a genjutsu or not?" Naruto persisted, knowing there was no use being polite to Sasuke.
"Kakashi warned me that activating the seal Orochimaru placed on me would be risky if I used chakra," Sasuke explained.
"That's fine. If you do activate it, I'll beat it out of you. So, is there a genjutsu?" Naruto stated, prompting grins from both girls at the thought of him giving Sasuke a beating.
Glaring at Naruto once again, Sasuke formed hand seals and channeled chakra into his eyes, activating the Sharingan. With his eyes now glowing bright red, he stood up to survey the room before sitting back down. Sakura noticed the seal on his neck expand briefly but shrink back to three dots once his eyes returned to their usual midnight black.
"Well? What did your Sharingan show you?" Naruto impatiently asked.
"It's like a veil or a thin cloud of chakra. It's everywhere," Sasuke replied, his voice carrying a hint of surprise. It was the first time he had witnessed something like this.
"What is it doing?" Sakura inquired as they all gathered around the table.
Searching for the right words, Sasuke explained, "It feels like the smoke you use on a beehive to keep the bees calm right before you collect their honey."
"Can you break it?" Ino asked, her curiosity evident.
Sasuke took a deep breath and shook his head. "I don't know the level of chakra required to break through it, but it's beyond my current capabilities. I don't think a group of Jonin could do it either."
"Let me give it a try," Naruto suggested, preparing to unleash a powerful surge of chakra.
"No, don't!" both girls exclaimed simultaneously, positioning themselves on either side of him. Sharing a brief glance, they appeared surprised that the other had intervened.
"What's the matter?" Naruto asked, confused, his gaze shifting back and forth between Sakura and Ino.
"If you fail, it will alert whoever is behind this genjutsu that you're aware of it. And if you succeed, it will plunge the tower into chaos. We need to inform the Hokage before taking any action," Sakura explained, looking past Naruto towards Ino.
"And besides, if you accidentally tap into the Nine-Tails' chakra, every Jonin in the tower will come after you," Ino added, her words laced with concern.
Sakura's eyes widened in realization, how did Ino know about her Nine-Tails? As Naruto stood up with determination, Sakura felt a mixture of anxiety and anticipation, this was what she expected out of Naruto, action not words was his trademark. "Then we need to go talk to Jiji," he declared, his voice ringing out. With a sense of urgency, Naruto led the way out of the dining hall, followed closely by his three friends, to seek answers from the Hokage.
As the small group marched down the tower hall, they found themselves at the main entrance. Just as they approached, the doors swung open, revealing Team 8 standing there. The members of Team 8, Kiba, Hinata, and Shino, appeared exhausted and covered in dirt and bruises, a testament to the challenges they had faced in the Forest of Death.
Sakura's eyes widened as she took in their disheveled appearance. She couldn't help but feel a mixture of admiration and concern for her fellow genin. It was evident that they had endured a grueling experience, collecting both scrolls and surviving the dangerous forest.
Their sensei, Kurenai Yuhi, stood with them, providing guidance and instructions for their next steps. The sight of Team 8's worn-out state reminded Sakura of the hurdles they all had to overcome in the Chunin Exams.
As the small group proceeded down the tower hall, their progress was abruptly halted by a surprising sight. Hinata, a usually reserved and shy girl, suddenly broke away from her teammates and made a beeline toward Naruto. The transformation in her appearance was striking, catching everyone's attention.
Gone was the timid girl who often kept to herself, hiding behind her fur-lined overcoat. In her place stood a confident Hinata, dressed in a sleek ensemble that accentuated her feminine figure. She wore a pair of form-fitting black shorts that showcased her toned legs and a black armored top that had been torn short to reveal her midriff. It was a departure from her usual attire and revealed a side of Hinata that had previously remained concealed.
Naruto's eyes widened in surprise as Hinata approached him. He couldn't help but feel a mixture of awe and admiration for her newfound confidence. Sakura and the others watched with curiosity, curious about the change that had come over their fellow genin. It was clear that Hinata's transformation went beyond just her appearance, hinting at a shift in her character and inner strength.
This unexpected encounter between Hinata and Naruto left everyone momentarily speechless, their attention focused on the unfolding interaction between the two. Was she finally going to tell him how she felt? Was this going to be the moment their whole class had been waiting for over the last year of the academy?
Ino and Sakura exchanged a knowing glance, their eyes filled with a mix of understanding and concern. They were well aware that if Hinata, the typically reserved and shy girl, made her move to stake her claim on Naruto, their chances with him would be greatly diminished.
The thought of Hinata stepping forward with this newfound confidence and openly expressing her feelings for Naruto stirred a sense of unease within both Ino and Sakura. They couldn't deny the depth of Hinata's affection for Naruto, which had become increasingly evident over time. Her new transformation, both in appearance and demeanor, only added to the weight of their realization.
Though Ino and Sakura had their own feelings for Naruto, they couldn't ignore the possibility that Hinata might have the advantage in capturing his heart. It was unsettled that all their planning could be undone in the next minute, their competitive natures driving them to consider their next moves carefully. How could they claim to be a better match than the beautiful, refined, and wealthy Hyuga who they knew from their own past would do anything for Naruto.
"Hinata, you look different.", said Naruto stopping in the middle of the hallway to greet Hinata who he had always thought of as that strange shy girl that sat in the back of the class.
"Menma Uzumaki, I have found you.", said Hinata in a cold and calculating voice.
Hinata's unexpected transformation and her chilling words left Naruto stunned. He had never anticipated such a drastic change in her. Before he could react, she swiftly activated her Byakugan, her pale eyes glowing with intensity. In an instant, she assumed a wide stance, her body radiating an aura of pure power.
As Naruto extended a greeting, his voice laced with genuine surprise, Hinata's response was far from what he had anticipated. The name she uttered again, "Menma Uzumaki," sent shivers down his spine, she said it with such hate it chilled him to the bone. He struggled to comprehend the sudden shift in Hinata's perception of him.
Without warning, Hinata struck with unparalleled force, her palm crashing into Naruto's chest with a devastating blow. The impact sent him hurtling backward, his body colliding with the distant wall. The hallway fell into stunned silence as Naruto's motionless form slide down the wall to lay sprawled on the floor.
In the midst of the chaos, Kiba reacted swiftly, rushing towards Hinata. He embraced her from behind, his strong arms encircling her to prevent further harm. Hinata's cold gaze softened slightly as Kiba's presence offered a brief respite from the intense emotions raging within her.
Ino, overcome with shock, let out a piercing scream, her voice echoing through the hallway. The realization of what had just transpired struck her with a wave of disbelief. Her mind raced to comprehend Hinata's sudden hostility towards Naruto, someone she had once admired from afar who had just killed her future.
Sakura, drawing upon her years of medical training and discipline, swiftly suppressed her emotions. With a steely resolve, she dashed to Naruto's side, her voice filled with urgency as she called out for medical assistance. Determined to ensure Naruto's well-being, Sakura focused all her attention on assessing his condition and providing immediate aid.
Meanwhile, Sasuke observed the chaotic scene with an enigmatic smile playing upon his lips. His eyes gleamed with a mix of intrigue and curiosity, seemingly unperturbed by the turmoil surrounding him. It was as if he had anticipated this turn of events, his mind calculating the implications of Hinata's actions.
Amidst the chaos and shock that engulfed the hallway, the atmosphere grew heavy with a sense of despair. Hinata, her once gentle expression replaced by a grim smile, offered no resistance as her arms were bound and her legs restrained. It was as if her mission had been accomplished, and the weight of all her hate had finally been lifted. The one that had killed everyone she loved was gone to never hurt her ever again.
The other members of the group watched in a mix of disbelief, concern, and sorrow. Ino's voice trembled as she struggled to comprehend the magnitude of Hinata's actions. The girl they once knew, filled with shyness and gentleness, had transformed into a vessel of vengeance. Ino could only as why over and over as she knew the future she so hoped to relive again was gone.
Sakura, torn between her dedication to medical duty and her conflicting emotions, knelt next to Naruto's motionless body with a heavy heart. With each passing moment, poured what healing chakra this young body had into her only love, all the while a sense of guilt gnawed at her. She couldn't help but wonder if there had been any signs, any indication of Hinata's inner turmoil that she had missed.
As the realization sank in that the one they had considered a friend had taken Naruto's life, the bonds between them were fractured. Trust, once a foundation of their unity, now lay shattered and fragile. The two teams looked at each other knowing the future that once held promise and hope now appeared full of treachery.
Sasuke, observing the aftermath with his customary stoicism, he felt a mixture of emotions swirling within him. He couldn't deny a flicker of admiration for Hinata's conviction and the courage she displayed in pursuing her vendetta. However, the consequences of her actions and the fracture they caused within their group were not lost on him. He recognized the gravity of the situation, this was the one thing he never considered, what came after his vengeance was complete.
As the chaos subsided, leaving behind a trail of confusion and pain, the hallway became a silent witness to the shattered bonds and unanswered questions that plagued the group. In the midst of the commotion, the medical team swiftly arrived, their urgency evident as they attended to Naruto's motionless form. Sakura, fueled by her medical training and an unyielding determination, followed closely, her mind focused on saving her fallen comrade.
Meanwhile, Ino stood frozen, her eyes locked with Hinata's unblinking gaze. Anguish and shock radiated from her as she tried to make sense of the unthinkable act Hinata had committed. The weight of the betrayal and the unanswered question "why" echoed in her mind. Unable to contain her emotions any longer, Ino's voice broke through the silence as she screamed at Hinata, demanding an explanation.
Driven by desperation and a need for understanding, Ino's trembling hands reached out and firmly grasped the sides of Hinata's head. At that moment, a surge of determination coursed through her, and she delved into the depths of Hinata's mind, seeking answers, seeking the truth.
Within the confines of Hinata's consciousness, Ino encountered a tumultuous sea of emotions and memories. Images of loss, pain, and deep-seated hatred filled the void, painting a vivid picture of Hinata's turmoil. It became clear that Hinata's actions stemmed from a distorted belief, fueled by what she had witnessed, that Naruto was responsible for the death of everyone she held dear.
Ino's heart wrenched with empathy as she witnessed the depth of Hinata's anguish. The once shy and reserved girl had been consumed by a vengeful fire, her perspective twisted by the horrors she had seen. It was a tragedy as great as her own future and now they stood on opposite sides of a seemingly insurmountable chasm.
Pushing harder, diving deeper Ino found to her astonishment, that the overwhelming hate and pain consuming Hinata originated from a journey she had taken back in time. In a bewildering twist of fate, Hinata came from a future plagued by tragedy and devastation, one where Naruto was the cause for the loss of everyone she held dear.
As the fragments of this revelation pieced together within Ino's mind, a profound sense of empathy washed over her. Hinata's actions were not born out of malice or a desire for revenge; they were a desperate attempt to alter the course of events, to prevent the anguish she had witnessed in her time-traveling journey.
Ino realized that Hinata's heart was burdened by an unbearable weight, an immense responsibility that she had shouldered alone. The weight of the future she had witnessed had driven her to these extreme measures, blinding her to the consequences of her actions.
Opening her eyes, Ino locked onto Hinata's gaze. Their pale blue eyes, so alike yet infused with distinct powers, delved into each other's souls. One possessed the ability to perceive the external world, while the other possessed the insight to unravel the inner workings of the mind. Both held within them the weight of their personal futures, brought back to this time to protect and save what they held dear.
"You came back to?", asked Hinata as visions of Ino's past life flashed before her mind's eye.
Ino's gaze pierced through the darkness, her eyes reflecting the weight of her haunted past. She understood the torment that consumed Hinata's soul, the agony of a future marred by tragedy and despair. Their paths had converged in this twisted timeline, both bearing the scars of their respective futures.
Locking eyes with Hinata, Ino could sense the immense power dwelling within her. Hinata's pale blue eyes, a mirror of her own, held a different kind of strength. One that allowed her to perceive the world around her, to navigate the external chaos, to break that which needs to be broken. In contrast, Ino possessed the ability to delve deep into the recesses of the mind, to unravel the intricate workings hidden within, and to heal and piece back together the shards of a broken mind.
A moment of understanding passed between them, a shared recognition of the burdens they carried. In that brief exchange, they glimpsed fragments of each other's past lives, the haunting memories that drove them to alter their fates.
"Yes," Ino whispered, her voice laced with a mixture of determination and resignation. "I've returned, just like you. We have both been scarred by the futures we sought to change."
Hinata's voice trembled with a mixture of disbelief and relief. "To think that we share this destiny, this unending cycle of pain... all I wanted to do was to stop it."
Ino nodded, her expression hardened by the weight of their shared purpose. "We had the chance to rewrite our futures, to break free from the chains that bind us. But what you have done is cast us into the darkness has a way of ensnaring even the strongest of souls."
Hinata's eyes shimmered with a mixture of fear and resolve. "Can we truly alter our destinies? Can we escape the horrors that await us? I could see no other way."
Ino's grip tightened holding the other girl still as she said, "There is always another way Hinata. You didn't have to kill Naruto."
...
"Naruto?", who is Naruto?", asked Hinata blinking for the first time.
...
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Thank you for all your reviews, I read them all. As I have said in my other stories I don't do fights/battles / jutsu very well. I like the drama and will more likely do a lemon long before a fight. With that said please tell me if this is worth continuing. Until Next Time…..