Chapter 42: Confess, Naruto

Chapter Summary: The shadows of Naruto's experiences loom over him as he grapples with his actions in Kamurodate.

Words: 4,064

Published: 11/21/23

Inari and Tazuna walked through the vibrant streets of the Hidden Leaf Village, tools in hand, as they happened upon Naruto and Sakura. Their eyes met, and a wave of recognition washed over them.

Inari shouted, "Naruto, Sakura!"

Tazuna exclaimed , "It's good to see you both again!"

Naruto and Sakura exchanged smiles and greeted their old friends warmly.

Naruto greeted, "Inari, Tazuna, it's been a while!"

Sakura asked, "How have you two been?"

Inari's smile faded as he noticed the absence of two familiar faces. "We've been well, but... we were actually hoping to see Kakashi-sensei and Sosuke, too. Are they out on a mission?"

Naruto's expression turned solemn, and he hesitated for a moment before delivering the news. "I wish I could say they were here, but... Kakashi-sensei, he..."

Sakura gently placed a comforting hand on Naruto's shoulder, finishing his sentence. "He passed away a while ago, Inari. I'm sorry."

Inari and Tazuna exchanged somber glances, their faces mirroring the sadness that had washed over Naruto and Sakura. Inari remarked, "He was such a cool guy..."

Tazuna questioned, "And what about Sosuke? Don't tell me he..."

Naruto sighed, the weight of Sasuke's situation heavy on his heart. "Sasuke... He's in the village, but he's... well, he's facing some issues. He's been demoted to a genin and he's under house arrest."

Inari and Tazuna shared a look of concern for their old friend. Tazuna stated, "That sounds complicated. We hope he can find his way back to the goodness in his heart."

"And Kakashi-sensei, he'll be missed."

Sakura nodded in agreement, her eyes glistening with memories of their late mentor. "He was a great teacher, and a true friend."

Naruto offered a reassuring smile to his friends. "Yeah, he was. But we'll keep moving forward, just like he taught us... In his own way."

Inari and Tazuna nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. The bonds of friendship remained strong, even in the face of loss and adversity.

Tazuna asked, "How about that Zabuza fellow?"

Naruto took a deep breath, his eyes filled with a mixture of sadness and reminiscence. Inari and Tazuna's curiosity extended to their new allies from the Land of Waves.

"Zabuza... He... passed away, not too long after the Wave mission. He sacrificed himself to protect me."

Tazuna and Inari shared a solemn moment of silence, their expressions reflecting the weight of this news.

Tazuna replied, "He was a tough man, but he had a sense of honor. My heart is lighter knowing that he came around in the end."

Inari nodded in agreement. "True, true. Zabuza wasn't exactly a boy scout, but he had a good heart."

Naruto couldn't help but smile, recalling their shared memories of that fateful mission. "Yeah, he did. It's only been a few months, but it feels so long ago, doesn't it?"

The trio continued their conversation, sharing stories of their past adventures and the people they had met along the way. The bonds of friendship were rekindled, and the memories of those who had passed on remained a cherished part of their shared history.

Naruto couldn't help but grin as he continued the conversation, wanting to bring some positivity into the discussion. "You know, there's a bit of good news too. Haku is actually living here in the village. He's cohabiting with a distant cousin of his, Yuukimaru, and his foster mother, Guren. It's amazing how things have changed for him."

Tazuna and Inari exchanged surprised glances. "Haku, huh? That's a fate I didn't expect to hear. It's good to know that he's found some happiness."

Inari nodded in agreement. "I remember Haku. You told me he was kind, even though he was on the opposite side. It's nice to know he's doing well."

Naruto's eyes sparkled with warmth as he shared stories of Haku's new life in the Hidden Leaf. It was a testament to the power of change and growth, even in the most unexpected circumstances. "Yeah, it just goes to show that things can turn out better for anyone, no matter where they start."

As the conversation continued, the trio enjoyed the reunion and shared their own updates, catching up on the twists and turns that life had taken them on since the Land of Waves mission.

With smiles on their faces and a sense of nostalgia in their hearts, Naruto, Sakura, Tazuna, and Inari exchanged warm farewells, knowing that their paths would very likely cross again soon. The bonds forged during their adventures were as strong as ever, and they each carried a piece of those memories with them as they went their separate ways, back into the bustling life of the Hidden Leaf Village.

Naruto turned to Sakura with a hopeful smile. "Hey, Sakura, what do you think about visiting Haku and his family? I mean, it's been a while, and I'm sure they'd love to see us again."

Sakura considered the idea for a moment, then nodded with a warm expression. "That sounds like a great plan, Naruto. I'd love to catch up with Haku and meet his family."

With their decision made, they eagerly awaited Haku's response, excited to reconnect with their old friend and explore the bonds he had formed in their absence.

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Suburbs

As Naruto and Sakura made their way towards the suburban area where Haku lived, they were filled with a sense of curiosity and anticipation. The vibrant greenery of the village surrounded them, and the sun cast a warm, golden glow on everything it touched.

They soon arrived at the quaint neighborhood where Haku, Yuukimaru, and Guren resided. The houses were adorned with colorful flowers and well-tended gardens, creating a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere.

Naruto and Sakura approached Haku's home and knocked on the door, eager to reunite with their friend and meet the new members of his family.

It was Yuukimaru who answered, and stared blankly.

"Hey, Yuukimaru," Naruto said warmly as they stepped inside. "Are Haku and Guren home?"

Yuukimaru nodded and led them further into the house. "Haku's in the living room, and Mom's is in the kitchen. I'll go get them for you."

Naruto and Sakura exchanged smiles, grateful for the warm welcome. They waited in the living room, eager to catch up with their enemies-turned-friends.

Haku welcomed them with a kind smile, "Naruto, Sakura, it's so good to see you again. Please, have a seat."

They sat down, and Guren came in from the kitchen, drying her hands on a towel. She offered a warm smile. "Welcome, it's a pleasure to meet you both."

Naruto returned the smile. "Thank you for having us."

The blonde then joked, "I hope Haku hasn't been bothering you."

Guren's expression softened. "He's wonderful to have around. And Yuukimaru adores him."

Haku nodded in agreement. "I've found a second family here, and I couldn't be happier."

Sakura beamed at the scene. "It's really heartwarming to see you like this, Haku."

Haku looked thoughtful for a moment before addressing Naruto. "Speaking of family, I heard from the rumor mill that you've been given a significant responsibility."

Naruto sighed, a touch of weariness in his voice. "Yeah, I inherited Sasuke's penthouse from Shisui. It's a lot to handle."

Haku nodded, understanding the weight of the situation. "I'm sure you'll manage it well. And you have support from your friends."

Guren chimed in. "You're always welcome here if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of urban life, Naruto."

Naruto smiled gratefully. "Thanks, Guren. It's nice to know I have friends like you."

The conversation flowed, and they caught up on life and events, sharing stories and laughter. In the warmth of Haku's family, Naruto and Sakura found a sense of comfort and a reminder of the bonds they cherished.

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Village

Naruto brought Sakura to a quiet training ground, a pensive expression on his face. He took a deep breath and looked at her, his blue eyes filled with a mix of guilt and anxiety.

"Sakura, there's something I need to tell you," he began, his voice hesitant. "During our last mission in Kamurodate, I... I might've accidentally caused some problems. Well, not exactly accidentally, but... I didn't think it would have such a big impact."

Naruto explained everything, from helping Gojo get revenge on his former boss to the email he sent to the boss's associates, leading to the exposure of his fraudulent activities and the subsequent stock market crash.

Sakura listened attentively, her expression a mix of surprise, concern, and understanding. When Naruto finished, she said, "Naruto, that's a huge deal. But I can see that you were trying to do the right thing, even if it had unintended consequences. It's a complicated situation."

Naruto nodded, relieved that she wasn't immediately angry with him. "I know, Sakura. I just didn't think it would affect so many innocent people. It's been bothering me a lot."

Sakura placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "You have a big heart, Naruto, and you always want to help people. Sometimes, things don't go as planned. The important thing is that you learn from your mistakes and try to make amends if you can."

Naruto smiled at her understanding. "Thanks, Sakura. I needed to talk to someone about this. It's been eating at me."

Sakura gave him a warm smile. "You can always talk to me, Naruto. We'll figure this out together."

Naruto hesitated for a moment before continuing, "There's something else, Sakura. It's about Hinata."

Sakura looked at him with curiosity. "What about her, Naruto?"

He took a deep breath and explained how Hinata had been with him during the mission and shared in the decision-making that led to the unintended financial crisis in Kamurodate. He told Sakura about her growing guilt.

Sakura listened with empathy, understanding the immense weight of their choices during the mission. "Naruto, it sounds like both of you were in a really difficult situation. And you're trying to protect yourselves by keeping it a secret. It's a lot to carry, even if you're sharing the burden."

Naruto nodded, relieved that Sakura was understanding. "Yeah, exactly. I know it was our decision, but I don't want it to blow up in our faces. We didn't mean to mess everything up."

Sakura reached out and gently squeezed Naruto's hand. "Naruto, if Hinata ever needs someone to talk to, I'll be there for her, too."

Naruto smiled, grateful for Sakura's understanding and support. "Thanks, Sakura. You're right. We're a team, and we'll get through this together."

As they continued their conversation, Naruto felt a renewed sense of strength and comfort, knowing that he had a friend who would stand by him and his teammates in times of trouble.

Naruto hesitated, his voice tinged with guilt. "There's one more thing, Sakura. It's... it's about Hinata and what I suggested to her."

Sakura looked at him, concern in her eyes. "What did you suggest, Naruto?"

He took a deep breath and admitted, "I told Hinata that maybe she should consider having her memory of that day wiped by Ino to help her get rid of the guilt. I felt like it was the easiest way to avoid accountability, but now I regret suggesting it. I feel like a heel for even thinking that way."

Sakura listened thoughtfully before responding. "Naruto, it's natural to want to protect your friends and ease their suffering. You had good intentions, even if the suggestion wasn't the best solution. But remember, our mistakes are what help us grow and learn. You're realizing now that it wasn't the right way to handle it, and that's a step toward becoming better."

Naruto sighed, feeling the weight of his actions. "I gotta be honest, Sakura. One of the reasons I suggested it was that I wanted to avoid getting in trouble or facing any consequences myself. I know it's not right, and it's not fair to Hinata."

Sakura's expression remained understanding as she replied, "It's okay to acknowledge your mistakes, Naruto. We all make them. The important thing is to learn from them and try to make amends. Now that you've realized your motivations weren't right, you can take steps to make amends."

Naruto nodded, his determination shining through. "You're right, Sakura. I need to face the consequences of my actions, not just for myself but for Hinata too... I can't run away from this."

Sakura gave him an encouraging smile. "That's the Naruto I know. We'll find a way to make things right together. And if Hinata needs help, we'll be there for her."

Naruto felt a sense of relief knowing that he had friends who would stand by him even in the face of his mistakes. He was ready to confront his own shortcomings and work toward a better future for everyone involved.

Naruto's voice quivered slightly as he spoke, "Sakura, I know I should own up to what I've done, but I can't help feeling anxious about it. It's like there's this weight on my chest, and I can't shake the guilt. I'm scared of the consequences and the impact it might have on me."

Sakura placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Naruto, it's natural to feel anxious when you're facing the consequences of your actions. But remember, we all make mistakes, and the important thing is how we choose to address them. You have a strong sense of responsibility, and that's a good thing. It means you'll do your best to make things right."

Naruto nodded, his eyes reflecting his internal struggle. "Yeah, you're right. I can't keep avoiding this. I have to face it head-on, for my sake and for everyone else involved."

Sakura smiled warmly. "You're not alone in this, Naruto. I'll support you every step of the way."

Naruto took a deep breath, feeling a renewed sense of determination. "Thanks, Sakura. I needed to hear that."

With Sakura's encouragement, Naruto felt more prepared to confront the consequences of his actions and to find a way to make amends for what had transpired.

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Wealthy District

As Naruto and Sakura walked towards the Hyuuga Compound Community to meet Hinata and discuss the issue, they came across the Yamanaka Flower Shop in the middle of the Village's Urban area.

Ino's expression was a mixture of curiosity and concern as she approached Naruto. "Hey, Naruto, Forehead," she began, "Hinata asked me a really weird question a few hours ago. She wanted me to use my jutsu to wipe her memory of a specific day. She didn't give me any details, but when I said it isn't possible, I could sense that it was causing her a lot of distress. Do you know anything about it?"

Naruto hesitated for a moment, torn between the desire to be honest and the secret whose consequences he was wary of. He finally sighed and decided to share some information while keeping the details vague. "It's complicated. Hinata and I were on a mission, and something happened that led to some unintended consequences. She feels responsible for it, but it wasn't really her fault."

Ino furrowed her brow, her concern deepening. "Unintended consequences? What happened, Naruto? Is she in danger, or is it something else?"

Naruto scratched his head, struggling to find the right words. "It's not about danger, Ino. It's more about the guilt she's carrying. She thought that erasing the memory of that day might help her cope with it. But I don't know if it's the right way to handle things."

Ino nodded, her empathy for Hinata evident in her eyes. "It must be quite a burden for her. If you're concerned about her, maybe you should talk to her about it."

Naruto sighed, feeling a sense of relief that he could confide in Ino to some extent. "That's where we're going, , Ino. I just hope I can find the right words to help her through this. Thanks for letting me know she stopped by."

Ino offered a reassuring smile. "Of course. Just be there for her and support her as a friend. That's what she needs most."

Naruto nodded appreciatively, and together with Sakura, he continued their journey to the Hyuuga Community, now with a plan to address the situation with Hinata in a more open and empathetic way.

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Walled Compound

As Naruto and Sakura reached the entrance of the Hyuuga Community, they were met with stern-faced guards who seemed reluctant to let them through. The guards exchanged a few hushed words before one of them stepped forward, blocking their path. It was clear that they didn't recognize Naruto or Sakura.

The guard spoke with heightened suspicion. "Hold on a minute. What's your business here?"

Naruto exchanged a quick glance with Sakura before answering. "We're here to visit Hinata Hyuuga."

The other guard stepped forward, and said in a disapproving tone, "We don't allow outsiders without knowing who they are."

Naruto exchanged a glance with Sakura, realizing that gaining entry might not be easy. But just when it seemed they might be turned away, Neji, who had been passing by, noticed the commotion and approached them.

He inquired, "Is there a problem here?"

The guards sighed and addressed him, recognizing their fellow clan member.

"Neji," one of the guards stated, "these outsiders wanted to enter the Hyuuga Community, and we were unsure of their intentions."

Neji turned his attention to Naruto and Sakura and gave them a polite nod. "I see. These are my friends, and they have my permission to enter."

The guards, without question, stepped aside, allowing Naruto and Sakura to pass. Naruto couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction that he had earned the respect and trust of someone like Neji, even though he was an outsider to the Hyuuga clan.

"Thanks, Neji," Naruto said gratefully as they made their way into the community.

Neji nodded. "You're welcome. I was on my way to visit Hinata, but I'm sure she'll be glad to see you both as well."

As they entered the Hyuuga Community, Naruto's thoughts were filled with the anticipation of seeing Hinata and hoping to provide her with the support and understanding she needed during this challenging time.

Down a waning hallway through courtyards, Neji spring up conversation by mentioning the subject at hand. "Lady Hinata's been anxious lately, moreso than usual."

Naruto confessed, "That's actually why we're here. It's sort of a secret, but I know she's gonna feel better once I talk to her."

Neji continued his stride as he eyed the blonde up and down. "Sure..."

Eventually, they reached a room in the middle of the compound, and Neji commanded, "In here."

Naruto and Sakura found themselves alone with Hinata in her room, the atmosphere heavy with unspoken tension. Hinata sat on her bed, her eyes cast downward, her fingers fidgeting nervously. Naruto took a deep breath, breaking the silence.

"Hinata," he began, his voice gentle, "I ah, I told Sakura about the situation, and she knows it's been bothering you. But I want you to understand something, it's not your fault. None of it."

Sakura chimed in, her expression soft and understanding. "Hinata, we've come here to tell you that you don't need to carry this burden alone. In fact, it's not your burden to bear at all."

Hinata looked up at them, her eyes welling with unshed tears. "But I asked Ino to wipe my memory of that day, and I thought it was my responsibility..."

Naruto shook his head, placing a hand on Hinata's shoulder. "Hinata, it's not your fault. None of this was your doing. The responsibility falls on me for what happened in Kamurodate. I was the one who suggested that plan, without consideration for the consequences."

Hinata's eyes met Naruto's, and in their depths, he could see a swirl of emotions. Unspoken feelings of jealousy and heartache lingered, but she kept them hidden. Naruto's presence with Sakura had always been a source of inner turmoil for her, but she was determined not to let it show.

Sakura, ever perceptive, continued. "Hinata, we don't want you to carry this weight. We're here to share it with you, to support you in any way we can. We're your friends, and we care about you deeply."

Hinata nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. "Thank you, Naruto, Sakura. I... I didn't know what to do."

Naruto offered a reassuring smile. "You don't have to worry alone, Hinata. We're in this together, and we'll figure it out."

As the conversation continued, Hinata's unspoken feelings of jealousy regarding Naruto being with Sakura lingered beneath the surface. She struggled to contain those emotions, but at the same time, she appreciated their friendship and support.

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As Naruto and Sakura left the Hyuuga compound, the late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the streets of the Hidden Leaf Village. Naruto's footsteps were heavy, his mind filled with a sense of duty and determination. He knew what he had to do, and it weighed on him like a leaden cloak.

Sakura walked beside him, her presence offering a comforting anchor in the sea of his thoughts. They walked in silence for a while, the unspoken tension hanging between them, before Naruto finally broke it.

"Sakura, I appreciate you coming with me to talk to Hinata. It meant a lot to her, and it meant a lot to me too."

Sakura smiled warmly, her emerald eyes reflecting her sincerity. "Naruto, you're not alone in this. We're all in it together, and we'll support each other."

Naruto nodded, but the weight of his confession was still evident in the furrowed lines of his forehead. "I know, Sakura, but there's something I have to do on my own. I need to confess to Granny about what I did in Kamurodate."

Sakura stopped walking and turned to face him, her expression one of concern. "Naruto, are you sure about this? You might be putting yourself at some risk."

He met her gaze with determination. "I know, but this... this is something I have to do. It's my responsibility, and I can't let anyone else shoulder it with me, especially not you."

Sakura's eyes softened, and she placed a gentle hand on his arm. "I understand, Naruto. Just remember that we're here for you, no matter what."

Naruto offered her a small smile. "Thanks, Sakura. I'll be back as soon as I've spoken with Granny."

She nodded, and they shared a brief, supportive hug. Then, with a sense of resolve, Naruto turned and continued on his path, leaving Sakura behind for the moment.

As he made his way to the Hokage's office, Naruto's thoughts were a whirlwind of emotions. He knew that confessing to Tsunade was the right thing to do, but the fear of the consequences weighed heavily on him. It was a journey of introspection and accountability, and Naruto had to face it alone.

Sakura watched him go, her heart filled with admiration for his courage and determination. She knew that Naruto had a strong sense of responsibility, and she believed in his ability to make amends for his actions.

For now, they were separated by the weight of their choices, but they were bound by the unbreakable bond of friendship, a bond that would help them weather the storm of uncertainty and emerge stronger on the other side.