The sun rose over the horizon, bringing forth a day in a world at war. The Fourth Shinobi War was in full swing. Konoha and Suna fought valiantly against Iwa and Kumo, neither side showing any signs of giving up any ground.
Battles waged throughout the lands, anything from small skirmishes to a full-scale attack ended in blood and only led to more. But this was not new to the world. War was always around the corner.
But back in the village of Konohagakure, the villagers did their best to keep spirits up and their days as normal as possible. Everyone did their part to help those out there fighting the battles. Everyone had a part to play.
That's how Sakura felt about it, at least.
Sakura Haruno had been training under the Fifth Hokage, Tsunade, for the past year now, day in and day out. From training and taking on shifts at the hospital, Sakura was a busy teenager. She had just turned fourteen and earned the rank of chūnin. Sakura worked hard and trained harder. She didn't want to fall behind.
"Sakura! Get down here! Now!"
And there went her good mood.
"Why?! I have to leave soon!" Sakura shouted back from her room.
"Then don't eat your breakfast I made for you! I don't care!"
Sakura just rolled her eyes. It was more of the same. Ever since that day in Naruto's hospital room, Sakura's relationship with her mother hasn't been the same. They rarely spoke to each other. When they did, it was filled with yelling and normally ended with Sakura storming away.
Sakura just could not get over how her own mother, Mebuki, could say such things about someone she had never met before. Mebuki has always taught Sakura to be open minded and to never treat someone without knowing who they were. But she here was doing exactly that to Naruto. She had no idea who he really was as a person. She just went along with the crowd and hated Naruto for something that he had no control over. Even after the word of Naruto parentage was released and word was spread, it seemed that the villagers' opinion on him had not changed much.
Sakura made her way downstairs and noticed her food was already on the table. Her father, Kizashi, had already eaten his food and was reading the newspaper across from her.
"Good morning, sweetheart."
"Morning dad." The food was lukewarm. It was Sakura's own fault. She took a long time to get ready.
"Do you have anything to say for yourself?" Mebuki walked out of the kitchen with a plate of her own. Sakura did not respond. "Well?!"
This was how it started. Every single time. Sakura was rarely the aggressor in the arguments with her mother. She simply did not want to talk to her because an argument would ensue. And her father had given up a long time ago to try and stop the arguments. But she knew he was just as sick of Mebuki as she was.
Sakura had barely eaten any of her food. She decided it was not worth eating if she was going to get yelled at the whole time. She stood from her seat and headed for the door.
"Where do you think you're going?!"
"I already told you. I have to leave. You know my schedule."
"You aren't going to say anything?"
"No? Why would I?" She clipped her knee-high black boots. "It's just gonna be another fight. And I'm sick of fighting." Her voice was monotone.
"If you're so sick of fighting, then why don't you just listen to me?"
"I did. And you said some pretty nasty things about my friend. I didn't appreciate that. You won't apologize for it. We're at an impasse." She put on her chūnin vest. "I'm tired of coming home everyday and fighting with you. I can't deal with anymore."
"So what?" Mebuki questioned. "I'll never approve of your friendship with that boy. I don't care if he is Lord Fourth's son, he's a menace. There was obviously a reason for him become the Kyūbi container."
Sakura held herself in check. "So close minded…" She mumbled. "I'm done here. I have to go."
Mebuki and Kizashi watched their only child walk out of the house in silence.
"You're pushing her away, Mebuki."
"Shut up."
-Hokage's Office-
"I must say Sakura, I have been impressed with you as of late." Tsunade stated with a small sense of pride. "Your training has been progressing well. And with the war in full swing, you are taking extra healing shifts at the hospital to help the wounded. And all the while, you managed to be promoted to chūnin. You've even been growing your hair out. Your hard work is paying off. You should be proud."
Sakura, adorning her chūnin vest with a medical patch over her shinobi attire, bowed with respect from the kind words. "Thank you, master. But it's only because of your teachings that I've been preforming as well as you say. But I'm nowhere near where I want to be. I'm still having trouble learning how to enhance my strength like you."
Tsunade shook her head with an amused smile. A response she expected from her pupil. "Always the modest one. It's good to be humble, Sakura. But there is nothing wrong with taking pride in your accomplishments. And you have been working extra hard lately. I think a rare reward is in order. You've earned it."
Sakura stood back to her full height, confusion filling her mind. "Reward? What do you mean, Lady Tsunade?"
"I have a mission for you, Sakura."
"A mission? For a reward? That doesn't sound like a good reward, m'lady."
"But that's where you're wrong, Sakura. This is no ordinary mission. You'd be tasked to go to a village named Tree Felling in search of a powerful tree. One that can heal any disease."
Sakura was thoroughly shocked by this. A tree that could cure any disease? It sounded like a legend to her. But there are more ludicrous things out there that are true. "How can a tree cure diseases?"
"Well, more accurately, it's the leaves from the tree. The leaves of this tree have a certain property about them that allows them to cure diseases. While it is true that there is a bit of legend to this story, there are some legitimate pieces of information that says it to be true."
The prospect of a mission did give Sakura some excitement. It had been a long time since she had been out of the village walls. Frankly, a mission away from Konoha sounded like a good mental break from her busy schedule. Especially her home life…
"If I'm the one you want for this mission, Lady Tsunade, then I accept."
"Good to hear." Tsunade pulled out a mission file and began to write. "Now, under normal circumstances, I'd have no problem allowing you to take this mission by yourself. But with unfortunate war going on, you'll be going with a team."
Sakura nodded in understanding. "Who will I be going with?"
"I'd prefer a jōnin. But, again, with the war, I really don't have any jōnin to spare for a small mission like this. So, you'll be going with two of your former classmates. Ino Yamanaka and Hinata Hyūga."
Sakura nodded. She was familiar with Ino for obvious reasons. Hinata was the outlier out of the three. Not for any reason in particular. They have just never had any real time together. But she was sure there would not be an issue between them.
-A few days later-
The trio of new chūnin were making their way down a main road in the Land of Fire, following the map to their destination for their mission. Sakura Haruno, Ino Yamanaka, and Hinata Hyūga had been traveling for a few days to reach the village known as Tree Felling Village. So far, it seemed the walking was nowhere near over.
Ino groaned again. She had made the same noise so many times already. "Dude…my feet are killing me! How much longer until we get there?!"
"Do you have any idea how much of a child you sound like, Ino?" Sakura countered her best friend's continued whining. "We are shinobi, kunoichi no less. We should not be complaining about walking. This is one of easiest things we do during a mission."
"Well excuse me Hokage's apprentice." Ino was obviously mocking Sakura. "Not all of us can be chosen for training from the strongest shinobi in the village. It must be nice."
Instead of engaging in Ino's mocking, Sakura looked at the map again to make sure they were on the right track. While Ino's complaining was extreme annoying, she did bring up a valid point. They had been traveling for quite some time, and by Sakura's prediction, they should've reached the small village by now.
"Are we far, Sakura?" Hinata questioned. Sakura had been impressed by Hinata's growth over the last year. Her confidence seemed to fully come in. Apparently, Hinata has been training day and night with Neji and her father. She, too, was getting bothered by the fact they had not reached their destination.
"No." Sakura reassured. "About another mile and we should be there."
True to Sakura's words, another mile of walking and the trio arrived at their destination. They came to a small and peaceful village, there was only a few buildings. By Sakura's guess, there were maybe one hundred residents.
"Hey, what's going on over there?" Hinata pointed towards the back of the small village. From what she could see, a group of people were standing around a large tree stump and at the entrance of cave.
"Let's go check it out." Sakura said, already walking towards the crowd.
The three kunoichi approached the crowd and integrated themselves into it. While they stood out in their chūnin vests, nobody seemed to notice or care. They were all focused on what was happening at the entrance of the cave.
An elderly man used his cane approached a teenage age girl, who was holding a lantern. "Aoi…we're all counting on you."
The girl named Aoi nodded her head in understanding. "Don't worry." Aoi is a young teenage girl with green eyes and bluish short hair with wavish bangs.
"Focus on what you have do to." A male villager spoke up. "You must fulfill your mission for the sake of the village."
"We're all depending on you, Aoi." Another villager stated.
"I know…I won't fail." She replied coldly.
The trio of kunoichi looked at each other with confusion contorting their pretty faces. Ino was the one to voice her curiosity first. "What's going on here? Is that girl about to go into that cave?"
"It's a ritual…"
The three turned around to see an adult female standing near them. At first glance, the woman looked utterly exhausted. Something Sakura picked up on right away. Her medical instincts kicked in and she began to utilize her new medical training from her master.
"A ritual?" Hinata questioned.
The woman coughed. "Y-Yes. It's a special ritual that only happens once a year."
"Who are you, anyway?" Ino asked.
She coughed again. "I…live close to the village. I come here for supplies." She ended her sentence with a cough.
"Hey ma'am, are you okay?" Hinata asked. "Are you sick?"
"Oh…I'm fine. Thank you. I'm…just a little under the weather is all." The young woman coughed harder. She seemed to be having a hard time.
Sakura visual examined the woman and had a slight suspicion that her sickness seemed more than meets the eye. "I hope you feel better soon. Please, let me know if your condition worsens. I'm a medical ninja from Konoha Village. I'm sure I'll be able to help."
"Anyway, what did you say this was? A special ritual?" Ino asked.
The woman nodded. "Yes. Once a year, a volunteer goes into the mountain cave and sacrifices themselves to the demon that lives inside the mountain."
"Sacrifices themselves?!" Hinata gasped in shock.
"But why? Why would the village allow that?" Sakura questioned.
"It's…to appease the demon." She coughed. "So that it leaves the village alone and stays away."
"No way." Ino turned around to watch the ritual. "Wait…so that means that girl is the sacrifice…"
Sacrifice. That word stood out in Sakura's mind. It reminded her of Naruto and how he was sacrificed for the better of the village to be the jinchūriki of the Kyūbi. By his own father no less. The girl was no older than herself. It just was not right. She had to do something.
Sakura burst through the crowd and jumped in front of Aoi, shocking everyone in the crowd. But it seemed Ino was more surprised than everyone else. 'When did billboard brow get so passionate?!'
"Stop this now! You can't do this!" The pinkette screamed.
While Aoi stared blankly at the older girl in front of her, some of the villagers behind her murmured amongst themselves.
"That headband…that green jacket…"
"Do you think she's…?"
"She has to be."
"Why would you volunteer yourself to be killed by a demon? It won't change anything!" While Sakura was looking and talking at Aoi, she was talking to everyone in attendance. "You're all just giving up and not trying to figure something else out. Don't forfeit your life so easily!"
Aoi looked up at the teenage girl with strange pink hair. "Who are you?"
"My name is Sakura Haruno and I'm a shinobi from the Hidden Leaf Village."
"I knew she was from Konoha." A villager spoke.
"But why is a shinobi from Konoha here? It's so far out of the way…"
Aoi continued to stare blankly at Sakura. "Just because a ninja from a hidden village is here doesn't mean I'll just stop." The young girl walked past Sakura, moving towards the dark cave entrance. "Do not stop me from what I must do. There is no other way."
"H-Hey, wait!" Sakura turned to Aoi. "Don't do this!"
"Don't try and stop me. I'll just keep going until I finish what I started." With those parting words, Aoi walked into the darkness of the cave and disappeared.
A sense of calm and relief came over the crowd of villagers. The elderly village mayor was somehow able to project his matured voice. "Goodness that was close. But the ritual was completed. The village is safe again. Go along now, back to work everyone."
Slowly but surely, the crowd of villagers dispersed back into their village to continue their daily duties. The only ones that remained were Sakura, Ino, Hinata, and the woman they had met. The three walked up to Sakura, who was left staring into the darkness of the cave.
"Man, Sakura! I've never seen you get so worked up like that." Ino stated. "Why did you do that?"
"How could you not?!" Sakura snapped, turning around to face them. "It's a human-sacrifice. How can you guys be okay with that?!" While it was a general question, it mostly directed at the sick young woman.
The young woman coughed. "There's no other way."
"How can there be no other way?" Hinata asked.
"This village is known for the crystals that we mine inside the cave. That's how we survived for so long." She coughed again. "But a few centuries ago, demon named 'Black Shadow' started attacking the people of the village."
"Black Shadow…" Sakura echoed.
"The village chief at the time couldn't risk the crystals, the village's only source of income and prosperity. So, according to the story, the chief offered a the demon a living sacrifice to appease it. The demon was pacified and every several years, someone enters that cave and is sacrificed…for the better of the village." As soon as she finished speaking, the young woman burst into a small coughing fit. She had been holding it in.
"I see. So, that's how this all started." Ino said. "An outdated ritual…"
"Every offering grants the village several years of peace. We prosper for a while…only for another sacrifice to happen again."
"That's terrible!" Hinata gasped. "But is this really the only option?"
Another cough, this one was harder. "We…fear that the demon will attack us if we try and stop the sacrifices. It's a terrible cycle but the village chief says one life lost is better than all lives…"
"Who decides is sacrificed?" Ino asked. "I can't imagine it's a highly sought-after thing to do."
"…No, it isn't. The village decides at random. The girl today was the first ever volunteer, Aoi asked to be the one to go into the cave."
Fear of the demon? One life in exchange for the better of the village? Sakura knew those two things all too well. Her mind flashed her teammate, Naruto. He had been 'chosen' to be the vessel, the sacrifice, for better of Konoha. A continued outdated cycle. She remembered the hateful stares he received when she would walk with him. She would always call it 'the stare of fear'.
"No. I won't let it continue…"
The three females looked at the pinkette confusingly. None of them were sure what she said.
"E-Excuse me?"
"What did you say, Sakura?" Ino questioned.
"This isn't right! How is it this village's right to chose who lives and dies? It's not! A person's life isn't something to be used like this!" Sakura back towards the cave entrance. "I'm gonna save Aoi's life and free this village from this demon, too!" She took off running.
"Sakura wait!" Ino called out. But it was too late, her friend was already inside. "Good grief. When did she get so hot headed?"
"I've never seen Sakura so passionate before." Hinata added.
The young woman has clasped her hand over her mouth in shock. It was such a display of emotion and confidence. Could that girl really save Aoi and put a stop of Black Shadow's rein of fear over Tree Felling Village? She could only hope.
"Should we go after her?" Hinata asked.
Ino just shook her head. "I'm not sure. We have our own mission to finish." Ino looked at the woman. "Excuse me, ma'am, could you help us with something?"
The woman nodded. "Of course. What do you need?" She coughed. "And please, call me Tsubaki.
"We are looking for tree that can cure any disease. Do you know if a tree like that exists?"
It was at this moment that the young woman's face turned to absolute surprise. It was as if a long-forgotten memory had been reawakened. "Please come with me. There is a lot to talk about."
The two chūnin glanced at each other momentary confusion, unsure if they should just leave without first going after Sakura. But again, the Hinata and Ino were having similar thoughts. If Sakura was so adamant about saving the girl, then she could handle herself. Besides, they had a mission to complete.
Ino and Hinata followed Tsubaki back into the main part of the small village. Once there, she led them back out the main gate and into the forest that surrounded them.
"Excuse me, where are we going, Tsubaki?" Ino questioned.
"To…my home." It seemed walking and talking took a great deal of energy from Tsubaki. Maybe her condition was worse than original thought.
Ino and Hinata continued to follow Tsubaki through the forest, making turns through the dense vegetation that made it seem like there was a heavy green fog. Ino felt like she was walking circles. Minutes passed, that felt like hours, before Tsubaki led the two chūnin into a large clearing. There was small house with a well for water and garden for food. A perfect set up.
"Is this your home, Tsubaki?" Hinata asked. "It's beautiful here."
"Thank you." The young woman coughed. "I've lived here my whole life."
"It's so peaceful here." Ino commented, lost in beauty of the nature. "I would love to have a home like this someday."
"My family has lived here for generations. We used to be the guardians of the Tree of Life…but the village ancestors cut it down."
Both Ino and Hinata were instantly invested into every word Tsubaki spoke. "Tree of Life?" Ino questioned. "Wait a minute…Hinata, do you think that's the tree Lady Tsunade was talking about?"
"I think it is." Hinata looked at Tsubaki. "Please tell us everything."
Tsubaki nodded. "The Tree of Life was a powerful tree that grew leaves from its branches that could cure almost any disease." She coughed, covering her mouth. "For generations, my family safeguarded the Tree of Life and used its powers to help cure the sick and help everyone. But then, the Crystal Cave was discovered behind the tree and a settlement was built to mine the crystals for profit. For a while, my ancestors allowed this to happen because no harm was being done to the tree or its leaves. There was harmony for a great deal of time. But then, to increase mining production, the Tree of Life was cut down. Killing the leaves and flowers that grew around it."
"That's terrible!" Ino gasped.
"How could someone cut down something so pure and helpful?" Hinata questioned.
"Money insights greed and brings change to a person, or so I believe." Tsubaki stated. "Regardless, the cutting down of the Tree of Life awakened the sleeping demon inside the cave. Black Shadow."
"Black Shadow?" Hinata repeated. While she felt terrible about it, hearing the word 'demon' reminded her of Naruto and his struggle he faces with his demon. The mere thought of the blonde made Hinata's heart flutter. But now was not the time to daydream.
"But how could cutting down the Tree of Life wake up a sleeping demon? I don't understand that part."
Tsubaki seemed to be confused by that as well, but she had an answer. "Well, according to the story that's been passed down in my family, there were special flowers that grew around the trunk of the Tree of Life that had pedals that gave off a scent that Black Shadow couldn't stand. As soon as the tree and flower pedals were gone, Black Shadow began terrorizing the workers and halted the mine. The mining company that had been created was losing money and workers. So, a deal was made by the man and the demon. A living sacrifice would be offered up in exchange to continue mining the crystals."
"Unbelievable. What kind of low life would make a deal like that?" Ino wished she could go back in time and beat some sense into that man.
"What happened to the Tree of Life after it was cut down? Was the wood used for lumber or anything like that?" Hinata asked. This was something she was curious about.
That question seemed to have stumped Tsubaki. "I…have no idea. I was never told anything by my mother." She coughed heavily. So heavily that she stumbled slightly. "I-I don't feel so good…"
Ino and Hinata quickly jumped to young woman's side to assist her. The two kunoichi slowly walked Tsubaki inside her house and laid her down on her bed. Ino made sure that Tsubaki was comfortable.
"Is there anything you can do for her, Ino?" Hinata questioned. "You've been taking Lady Shizune's medical classes, right?"
The platinum blonde nodded her head. "I'll do what I can for her. But, as much as I hate to admit to it, Sakura is far better than I am right now. We need her to help Tsubaki."
Hinata nodded in understanding. "I'll go get her. I'll be back soon." Hinata run out the door and headed back to Tree Felling Village.
Ino placed her hands over Tsubaki's chest and emitted a green glow. Comfort flowed through Tsubaki's body and she relaxed. But her relief did not hide her worsening symptoms.
Ino couldn't believe what she was seeing through her chakra. "Tsubaki…how long have you been like this? Your body…is deteriorating from the inside. The damage…it is irreversible. And it is happening so fast. Frankly, it's a miracle that you could even move in your condition."
The woman held a calm expression. "I know." Her voice was normal and barely raspy. Thanks to Ino's healing chakra, Tsubaki was able to speak clearly.
"Y-You knew?" Ino gasped. "Then how come you've never sought treatment?"
"This disease has haunted my family for generations. It's incurable. But up until the Tree of Life being cut down, we lived healthy and long. We would use the leaves to cure ourselves then others."
Ino was amazed. Never would she have thought something like this was legitimately true. The world was full of wonder and surprise. "So, how long do you have?" But where there was wonder, there was sadness right behind it.
Tsubaki breathed calmly. "Not long. My time is near." She was on borrowed time and she knew it.
Ino nodded sadly. There really wasn't much she could say or do, except ease the pain like she was doing. Still, she felt like she should ask. "Is there anything I can do for you?"
Tsubaki shook her head. "There was only one thing I wanted. I wanted to spend my last few days with my daughter. But I can't anymore."
"Why's that? Where is she?"
"She's…" Tsubaki was getting choked up, tears forming in her eyes. "…she's in the cave. Sacrificing herself to Black Shadow."
Suddenly, Ino's world spun something fierce as the information settled in her mind. "That girl is your daughter?! How could you let go through with that?! What on earth is going on?!"
"Aoi made the decision herself and never told me!" Tsubaki fired back. She finally had to energy to raise her voice a little. "I didn't find out until this morning when I went to the ritual."
"Then why didn't try and stop her?"
Tsubaki contemplated her words. The memories flooded her mind of the girl her daughter used to be. "Aoi was always so cheerful and full of energy. Even after her father's death, Aoi remained cheerful. But after she found out about my illness, she…changed. She stopped smiling and spent more time in the village. I think…she's been mad at me for being sick."
"How can she be mad? It wasn't you fault."
"In the mind of a child, it is. Having a child has been the greatest joy and worst headache of my life."
Ino had no further comment. She was just too baffled by it all. How could a daughter be so cruel to not even give her mother her final wish of being with her in the final days of her life? But then again, Tsubaki said Aoi changed after the death of her father. It would be only natural for a child to react in such a way so that they wouldn't feel the same pain again. But that was only a temporary solution to a lifetime of regret that would follow.
But Ino's mind wandered back to the tale Tsubaki told her. Where could the Tree of Life have gone after being cut down? Something that powerful to cure any illness surely wouldn't simply go missing without a trace.
"But something doesn't add up…" Ino pondered out loud. "Why would Aoi volunteer for the ritual? She couldn't have been that mad at you to sacrifice her life away."
"I'm not entirely sure." Tsubaki responded. "I never got a chance to talk to her…"
"How well known is the history of the Tree of Life inside the village?"
"It's pretty common knowledge, actually. Most of the villagers know the story. The mayor would know it the most."
Ino thought back to earlier and what the elder man said to the young girl at the entrance of the mine. He said not to lose focus. And that they were all counting on her. Maybe, just maybe, Aoi was in that cave for another purpose. Ino had to know.
"Then we have to go after her."
Tsubaki looked at Ino with hope in her eyes.
"I was wrong not to go with Sakura initially. But now, Aoi has be brought back." Ino looked down at the woman. "Will be all right if I leave you here?"
Tsubaki nodded. "Whatever it is you're doing has helped greatly. I'll be fine for a while."
Ino nodded and stopped her medical ninjutsu. "I have to catch up to Hinata!"
"Wait!" Tsubaki called out before Ino could leave. She took off the small charm around her neck. "Please, give this to Aoi. This was passed down in my family for generations. I know it will protect her."
Ino took hold of the charm and looked at it for a moment. She could almost feel the importance of it. She held it firmly. "Of course. You can count on me!"
Ino ran after Hinata. Then, they both made haste to the Crystal Cave.
-With Sakura-
As she sprinted into the cave, mining equipment quickly came into her view. She noticed all the crystals had been mined out in this part of the cave. Sakura went deeper into the cave; farther than she thought she would have to catch up to Aoi. Sakura did not enter the cave that far after Aoi. How could she be so far behind this quick?
That's when she learned why. There was an elevator shaft that led deeper down into the mine. Everything seemed stable enough. Sakura pulled the lever, and the elevator came roaring up, a sign that Aoi had gone this way. After a few minutes of waiting, the elevator came to a screeching halt and Sakura stepped on, silencing hoping it would hold. She pulled the lever again and elevator plummeted back down.
As the elevator came to another grinding halt at the bottom of the shaft, light came into view. From the floor to the ceiling of the cave, different colored crystals covered the walls. Surprisingly, the crystals refracted light off each other and that provided sufficient light. Sakura couldn't help and stop to admire the beauty of it. She could see why this cave was so important to Tree Felling Village. But still that didn't excuse their actions.
Sakura took off running again, trying to reach Aoi before the demon that lives inside does. Now that she was on the same level as Aoi, it didn't take Sakura long to see the lantern Aoi was carrying. Seeing that light made Sakura run faster until she literally jumped in front of the girl.
"Wait, stop!"
Aoi only stared at the pink haired girl in front of her, showing no signs of surprise that she was there. "You again?"
"You don't have to do this!"
Aoi only continued to stare. "Don't make me repeat myself. I have something I need to do. And you are not going to stop me."
"What about your family?! Your mom and dad?! And your friends?! They're all worried about you! There's no need for you to throw your life away!"
For the first time since meeting her, Aoi's face faulted slightly and flashed a sense of pain and sorrow. She seemed lost in the emotion for a moment before forcing it away.
"You shouldn't just blurt things out like that…especially when you don't know what you're talking about."
"What…?" Sakura gasped in confusion.
"My father…died a really long time ago. And now…my mom…" Her voice trembled slightly. "I have to keep going. I'm losing time."
"What are you talking about? Losing time for what?"
"I need to keep going." Aoi stepped over to move passed her obstacle. But Sakura had other plans. The chūnin grabbed ahold of Aoi's shoulder just before she was out of reach. "Hey!"
"I'm telling you to wait and think!"
"I have thought about this!"
"Do you want to die that badly?!" Aoi offered up no response. "You just said your mom is still alive, right? Shouldn't you be by her side then? And if she is sick, maybe I can help. I'm a medical shinobi."
"…You don't know…"
"Huh?"
"You don't know anything about me!" Aoi screamed, forcing herself out of Sakura's one-handed hold. "And you come in and started talking like you know everything! Just leave me alone and go away!" She turned and began to run.
"Get back here!" Sakura shouted.
Sakura moved to catch up but then some kind of creature rose up from the ground. It was a short, stocky man in a blue and white long robe and yellow eyes and hair coming out of the mouth of the robe.
"You will…not stop…the sacrifice." The man raised both his arms up and a large red crystal wall rose from the shadows and separated Sakura from Aoi. "This is…as far…as you go."
"No!"
The man sunk back into the ground and disappeared into darkness. Sakura was in shock at the sheer size of the wall. She reached out and felt the crystal wall with her hand.
'It's solid crystal…this won't be easy to break. But if I use my chakra enhance strength, then I should be able to shatter it.'
But there was the problem. Sakura had not completely mastered her Hokage's technique yet. The amount of chakra control it took to focus her chakra like that was extremely difficult, even with someone with level of chakra control. Tsunade told Sakura that it her years to develop and master the technique. So far, this was the only lesson Sakura had yet to pass.
Sakura took steps back, giving her ample room for a running start. She took in a deep breath.
'Gather up chakra in your fist and, on the moment of impact, release all the pent-up strength in one explosive attack!'
Tsunade's words echoed in Sakura's mind as she took off running towards the wall. She reared her fist back and launched it forward towards the wall. An explosion of chakra generated from her fist inches from the crystal. She was blown back from the force of it.
Sakura shook her head, trying to shake away the daze. She immediately knew what she did wrong. She released her chakra too early and it blew up in her face, literally. Timing was key for chakra enhanced strength. Release your chakra too early and it explodes. Release your chakra too late and, while you might still hurt your target, it will not be as potent and devastating.
Sakura geared herself up again and charged at the wall. This time she made contact with the wall, but her chakra didn't release at all. She simply punched the rock-hard wall.
"Ah!"
She yelped painfully. She felt the bones in her hand crack on impact. It made her lose focus and lose control. She slid down and sat against the wall. Using a simple technique, one taught by Naruto, Sakura healed her hand to the point it was functional again.
"How could I mess that up…?" Sakura asked herself.
Doubt quickly crept into her mind. Was this all her training amounted to? If she could not break a stupid wall, then how could she save Aoi? Sakura had been working harder than ever before in the last year to get to this point. She been begging for an opportunity to strut her stuff and show just how strong she was. Now that she had one, she faltered.
Sakura hung her head. "I can't do this…" She sobbed. "There's no way I can…"
Sakura pulled her knees into her chest and buried her face. How could she call herself the Hokage's apprentice if she could not break a stupid wall?
"…I'm sorry…"
"Sakura?"
"What on earth are you doing on the ground, forehead?"
The pinkette looked up to see both of their comrades approaching her. She was surprised to see them. "You guys…"
"What happened, Sakura?" Hinata asked. "Where's Aoi?"
"She's up ahead. Passed this stupid wall that I can't break…"
Ino looked at the crystal and then back at Sakura. She figured what had happened. She knew that Sakura was having trouble with the chakra enhanced strength. "Having some trouble, Hokage's apprentice?"
Sakura buried her face again. "Shut up…"
Ino got down on eye level with her long-time friend. "There's no need to be sad, Sakura. We all can't be good at everything. Sometimes it takes time to be good at something."
"…That's not it…"
Both Ino and Hinata were somewhat confused by Sakura's answer. "Then what's the problem?"
Sakura's head shot up, revealing she was holding back tears. "I need to save her, Ino! I can't let this ritual continue!" happen! It's just not…" Sakura stumbled over her words. "I have to stop her! I have to save him!"
"Him?" Hinata caught Sakura's slip up.
"Who's him?" Ino asked.
"Uhh…" Sakura stammered as she stood up. "I just…need to save Aoi. I just have to…but I don't know if I can…"
Ino stared at her childhood best friend and processed her words. She thought about it. For the past year, Sakura had been highly motivated and trained and worked every day as Tsunade's student. She heard the talk about how she was learning quick and the praise that the Hokage had given her. She could not blame Sakura for a confidence boost.
But again, Ino has never seen Sakura this depressed over something she could not accomplish. Not even when she would try and when Sasuke's heart back in the academy. Yes, she would sulk for a day or two but Sasuke's rejection never affected her this badly. Ever since she was put on Sasuke's team with Naruto, Ino noticed Sakura beginning to change. What was giving her all this motivation and work ethic? What happened in the last year that lit a fire inside of Sakura? What, or who, was responsible for it?
'Him…' Ino echoed Sakura's words. 'He's certainly an interesting one.'
"What would Naruto say to you if he heard you talking like this?"
Sakura's breath hitched at the mention of their comrade. Hinata just stared confusingly at Ino.
"He's the reason you've been so motivated, isn't he?" Ino could read Sakura clear as day. "Yeah. It is."
Sakura had memories flood her mind. Ino was right. Naruto was her motivation. Watching him leave for his training was one of hardest thing she had to do. Not only because she would miss him so much, but because Naruto was able to push her harder than anyone and anything else. His words and presence just filled her pride and willingness to do more.
In the beginning of her training, it was hard for Sakura to get the same level of motivation and energy every day. The worry for Sasuke and the absence of Naruto weighed on her mind and drained her mentally. With the amount of knowledge she was taking in and the physical trials she was put through, every day was a struggle. But what really got her through the day and gave her the ability to do it again was the thought that he would be home again and that she could prove to Naruto that she could be strong like him.
Sakura just wanted to stand next to Naruto. Not be protected by him. And for them to come together to save Sasuke.
"He would tell me to get up and shake it off. Life could be worse. Try again until you get it right."
Ino smiled. "That's better." She stepped aside, making Hinata follow her movements. "Now, shatter this wall and let's save Aoi!"
"Yes!" Hinata proclaimed.
Sakura snapped herself out of her stupor and assumed the same position as before. She clenched her fist as tight as she could and charged in a full sprint.
"Cha!" Sakura shouted with fury.
Her fist smacked the wall. An explosion of chakra followed, and the red crystal wall shattered completely!
"Good job Sakura!"
"Atta girl, Forehead!"
Sakura smiled triumphantly. It felt so good to finally have the chakra enhanced strength technique mastered. But she could dwell on that later.
"C'mon! We have to catch up to Aoi!"
The three kunoichi took off running after the young girl. With the light of the crystals guiding them through the cave, they were able to catch up to Aoi just as she was about to enter the deepest part of the mine.
"Aoi!" Ino shouted, making the girl stop in her tracks.
The girl turned around to see the three chūnin running towards her. "Oh. It's you again…and two others. But how did you know my name?"
"I know more than that. We've learned so much about you." Ino gasped out, trying to catch her breath.
"…Like what…?" An uncomfortable feeling rose inside Aoi.
Ino approached the girl knelt in front of her. "Aoi…I know about your mother. She's really sick."
"…You know about my mother?" Aoi had a small quiver in her voice.
Ino nodded. "Yeah. I talked to her and she's really worried about you. Your mother really wants you to stop this nonsense and come home. She doesn't have a lot of time left…"
Aoi's steel, emotionless face returned. "I know that. That's why I'm here. I'm gonna save her."
"Save her how?" Sakura questioned. While Ino and Aoi were talking, Hinata had quietly told Sakura everything that had happened thus far while she was chasing after Aoi.
"I don't think of myself as a sacrifice. I'm not throwing my life away." Aoi stated. "I'm here because I believe Black Shadow has the Tree of Life in here somewhere."
"You do?" Hinata chimed in.
"What makes you think that?" Ino asked.
"My mother has told me the story so many times, I could repeat it perfectly back to her. After I found out that she was sick, I asked everyone in the village about what they knew about the Tree of Life." The more Aoi spoke, the more her voice quivered. "Nobody knew for sure. But everyone had the same idea that Black Shadow took the tree away so that it could never bloom the flowers again." She reached behind her and unveiled a small, withered branch. "I found this small branch after Black Shadow separated us. This branch is from the Tree of Life. It has to be!"
Sakura took hold of the branch and examined it. "This definitely gives your story some proof."
"But how you just leave your mom like that? Especially without telling her." Ino was somewhat frustrated with the girl about the situation with her mother.
Aoi finally broke down. "What else was I supposed to do?! I don't want my mom to die! What do you expect?!" The three chūnin were taken back by the outburst. "She was fine up until recently! Always smiling and laughing! Then this sickness came and is trying to take her from me!" Aoi dropped to her knees, tears falling freely from her eyes. "I won't sit by and watch her die, too!"
"Aoi…" Ino was touched by the girl's love for her mother.
"I love her! I love her with all my heart and soul! I can't lose her too!"
The three chūnin were overwhelmed with emotion with Aoi. Poor Hinata had a tear in her eye. All three wrapped themselves around Aoi and gave her the comfort she needed.
"It's going to all right, Aoi." Hinata said.
"We all know how you feel, Aoi." Ino added.
"We won't let anything happen. That's why you can't sacrifice yourself for this." Sakura placed a hand on the girl's head. "We'll do whatever it takes to save your mother. I promise."
Aoi wailed loudly as she buried herself within the three, finally succumbing to the extreme stress and letting all out. After a few minutes of crying, Aoi was finally able to calm down.
"W-What are you going to do?" Aoi sniffed.
Sakura looked at her two teammates. "How 'bout ladies? You two up for a fight with a demon?!"
Ino and Hinata furiously nodded. "Oh, hell yeah!" Ino shouted.
"If Black Shadow really does have the Tree of Life, then defeating it will be our only way to get to it."
Sakura nodded in agreement. "I couldn't have said it better myself." She turned back to Aoi. "You stay here and hide. You'll be safer back here."
"But I…"
"You've done enough, Aoi. Just leave the rest to us!" Ino stated. She had never been so amped up to fight before. It was an exhilarating feeling, to say the least. "Oh yeah." Ino reached into her pocket. "Here, your mom wanted you to have this."
Aoi took hold of the charm. "This is the charm she always wore…she never took it off."
"She said it would protect you."
Ino, Sakura, and Hinata began walking towards the center of the cave. Ready for the battle ahead.
"We'll be right back, Aoi!" Sakura shouted. "Don't worry, I'll get those leaves!"
"…Thank you…" Aoi whispered. "Just hold on…mom…"
-Black Shadow vs. Three Kunoichi-
Sakura, Ino, and Hinata came into an extremely large opening deep inside the mining cave. And there they were greeted by the demon itself. Black Shadow. Black Shadow was a giant wolf-like creature with five yellow eyes, two heads, and six legs. He also had a set of equally giant brown wings and a long brown tail.
It seemed the beast had been waiting for them. "You dare to defy me…you are all fools…"
Sakura smirked. "Yeah, well these fools are here to take you down!" Sakura noted that this was not the form the beast had taken early. 'This must be its true form.'
"I will let no one stand in my way…the sacrifice will be delivered, and the ritual will be completed." Black Shadow rose to his massive height. "All will perish before me!"
Focusing its energy, Black Shadow fires spikes out from its back that homed in on the kunoichi's position. Hinata was quick to the draw and immediately went on the defensive.
"Shugohakke Rokujūyon Shō!" (Protective Eight Trigrams: Sixty-Four Palms)
Hinata emitted a stream of constant chakra to her palms, which formed thin and sharp blades of light, as she moved her hands with precision and fury to block all incoming projectiles. This was an ultimate defense that mirrored Neji's Hakkeshō Kaiten technique. (Eight Trigrams: Rotation)
"Good work Hinata! Go Ino!"
This allowed Ino to break away from the others and gave her the opportunity to distract Black Shadow with some paper bombs. She statically placed the papers in such a way to cause a wall to collapse but without bringing down the whole cave on top of them. The explosions went off and the rocks fell. Black Shadow had to stop his onslaught on Sakura and Hinata to dodge the falling debris.
"My turn!"
Sakura used the opportunity to jump into air. She funneled her chakra into her right fist, giving it immense strength and power. She screamed a battle cry of pure excitement as she slammed her fist into the side of Black Shadow's face. The resounding smack echoed like a cannon throughout the cave. Black Shadow was stumbled slightly but appeared to be unaffected.
The three regrouped. "What IS this thing?! My attack did nothing?!"
"Its stronger than we thought." Ino stated. "We have to try a combined attack next!"
"Right!" Hinata agreed.
"This is far as you go!" Black Shadow focused his energy and bound the three kunoichi in veils of binding black shadows.
From the weight the shadows around them, Sakura and Ino were forced to the ground and was unable to move. Hinata was somehow able to stay upright. Using her Byakugan, she was able to see the properties of the shadows.
'This is just like Shikamaru's…'
"Ugh!" Ino groaned as she struggled. "My body is so heavy! I can't move!"
"What is this stuff?!" Sakura continuous tried to force herself out of the shadows. She was even adding chakra enhanced strength to her struggles.
"No mortal…has ever escape my shadows. This is…where you die…shinobi!"
Something small and hard rolled off Black Shadow's snout. The demon looked over and saw what had been thrown at it. Aoi had thrown a rock to gain Black Shadow's attention.
"Hey! Over here!"
"The sacrifice…has arrived."
"What the hell are you doing, Aoi?!" Sakura shouted.
"Get out of here!" Ino screamed. "Stay away!"
Aoi shook her head. "I can't do that! I'm going to fight with you guys!" She steeled herself. "I'm not going to stand by and do nothing!"
Black Shadow roared as it approached Aoi. The girl, despite her courage, fell back in fear. She was caught off guard by the sheer size of the beast. She could not keep her balance. Black Shadow lunged forward. Hinata was able to break free and put herself in front of Aoi, taking the front of the blow. Hinata and Aoi were thrown to the ground.
"No!" Sakura shouted.
"Hinata! Aoi!"
Black Shadow could not believe it. "A mortal…broke through…my restrants?"
Aoi sat up slightly and saw Hinata was completely unconscious. She felt around and could not find her mother's charm. It had fallen out. She saw it on the ground, broken open. And scattered on the ground around it were flower petals.
"My mother's charm…why does it have petals in it?"
The scent of the petals filled the air of the cave. Black Shadow caught the scent in its nose and immediately reacted in severe pain. Black Shadow's focus was completely thrown off and allowed Sakura and Ino to be freed. They rushed over and checked on Hinata and Aoi.
"Those flowers…this scent…why are they here…?"
Sakura did a quick check. She breathed a sigh of relief. "Hinata's fine. There's no major damage." She moved over to Aoi. "And you, Aoi? Any pain?"
The girl shook her head. "N-No. I'll fine." Aoi looked back at the petals. "I think those are…"
"The petals from the Tree of Life." Ino answered, standing guard. "That's why Black Shadow is acting this way. Your mother said that charm was handed down in your family. Whoever made that charm really thought ahead."
"NOOOOOOOO!" Black Shadow roared in pain.
Sakura moved to stand next to Ino. "This is an opportunity that your ancestors gave us…We have to seize it!"
"This is the end for you, Black Shadow!"
But Sakura and Ino never were able to enact a plan on defeating the beast. Suddenly, a monstrous amount of black flames ignited on Black Shadow's body. Burning him with the heat of the sun itself. The demon screamed in utter agonizing pain, more so than the petals caused.
Sakura and Ino looked on in complete shock. They had never seen anything like it.
"What on earth is going on?" Ino questioned.
"I'm not sure. Maybe it's the effect of the petals?" Sakura had no clue what it could be.
"It's no petals…only the sun."
After minutes of excruciating pain and suffering and hundreds of years living inside the Crystal Cave, Black Shadow's body fell limp and hit the ground dead. Defeated by a mere human.
A lone man in tan cloak approached Ino and Sakura, his covered by a mask made like weasel. Both of the girls recognized the style of mask, not the man. But Sakura could have sworn she had met this particular person before…
"Are you ANBU?" Ino questioned.
The ANBU operative said nothing, only kept his concentration on the black flames consuming the body of the beast. He focused sight momentarily and the black flames slowly disappeared. Leaving the husk of the beast charred. It left an opening to view the inside of Black Shadow and the trunk of a tree was revealed.
"Were you sent by Lady Tsunade?" Sakura questioned. She was never briefed on having backup on this mission, especially ANBU level. The whole reason she was with Ino and Hinata was because it was a low-level mission that did not require a jōnin. They were fresh chūnin. And there was no way to tell that they would a demon like this. Something was wrong. "Why are you here?"
"The Hokage sent me to assist." The voice was distorted. Sakura could not recognize it from memory. "And to retrieve the curing leaf."
"Look!" Aoi shouted. "It's the tree. The Tree of Life!" She ran towards the beast's body and looked inside. The tree was dead, and leaves were littered around. Not a single viable leaf. She moved the leaves around, hoping for a miracle. And se found it. "There's some good leaves in here!"
Sakura went over to Aoi and looked in her hands. There were two bright green leaves. "Are these…?"
Aoi nodded furiously. "Yes! Yes! My mother is gonna be okay now!"
The ANBU appeared suddenly next to them. "Allow me to take the one back to the Hokage."
Sakura wasn't having it. "I'm not so sure I should let you take it." She slightly pushed Aoi behind her. "I was given no information on anyone else being here. Who are you and what are you really doing here?"
"You are not privy to that classified information. I cannot indulge that to a chūnin."
"This chūnin just so happens to be the Hokage's apprentice. I'm confident that my master would have told me something that involved my mission! Classified or not!"
The ANBU seemed to be getting annoyed with this. He quickly grabbed ahold of Sakura and forced her to look at him in his eyes.
"H-Hey! Let go…of me…" The last thing Sakura saw was a glaring red eye with three tome. 'Sharingan…?'
"Sakura!" Ino shouted. The pinkette's body went limp, but the ANBU operative laid her gently on the ground. "What did you do to her?!"
"A simple genjutsu. You'll be able to break it since your apart of the Yamanaka clan." The man approached Aoi, who was shaking in fear. He stood before her. Then reached down and took one of the two leaves from her hand. "I only need one. You can still cure your mother."
The man in the weasel mask simply walked out of the cave, unchallenged by Ino.
The Yamanaka girl rushed over to Sakura once the 'ANBU' had left. She placed hands on Sakura's head and funneled her chakra into her, breaking the genjutsu. It took a few moments, but Sakura slowly woke up.
"Uhhhh…." She moaned.
Ino breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank goodness." She looked at Aoi. "Are you alright?"
Aoi nodded, her fear slowly subsided. "Y-Yes."
Ino nodded. "Once Sakura wakes up fully, we'll head back to your mother."
Unknown to any of the girls, there was a small origami-like bird perched high in the cave. It was watching everything happen in secret. The paper bird took silent flight and flew out of the cave back to its home…
-Next day-
"And then Chōji got his hand stuck in the jar!"
Ino could barely make it out of that story without laughing. Hinata, Sakura, and Aoi already couldn't not stop laughing. That last extra bit pushed them over the edge.
After leaving the Crystal Cave, Sakura and Aoi rushed ahead of Ino and Hinata to bring the remaining leaf to Tsubaki. Using her knowledge of herbs and medical products, Sakura was able to make the Tree of Life leaf to a medicine that was good enough for sick woman. The results were nearly instantaneous. All the contaminated cells were quickly killed off by the power of this mysterious leaf.
To show gratitude for their heroics, Tsubaki cooked them a heaping feast.
"Mom!" Aoi shouted as Tsubaki brought out another plate of food. "You should be resting! I told you I would cook!" Aoi's entire personality had changed. She was cheerful and full of life again.
"Oh? I think I can handle a little bit of cooking." Tsubaki commented back. "Besides, I have to show my thanks to the people who saved my life." Tsubaki's health was back in full. She made a complete recovery from her sickness.
"There really isn't a need." Sakura stated. "We just wanted to help."
"Yeah." Ino added. "We're shinobi. We do this sorta thing all the time."
"Nonsense!" Tsubaki was already headed back in to the kitchen. "Please, allow me to show my thanks by giving you a proper meal before your journey tomorrow."
How could they refuse? It would be rude for them to deny this. "We accept the gesture, Tsubaki." Hinata chimed in. "Thank you."
The woman smiled and disappeared into the kitchen again. She returned moments later with one more giant plate of food.
"Do you guys really have to leave tomorrow?" Aoi asked, slightly hoping she could convince them to stay another day.
Sakura. nodded. "We have to get back to the Hidden Leaf. The war is really starting to ramp up. The hospital is going to be overwhelmed with the injured. There's a lot of work to be done."
Aoi nodded sadly. She understood but that did not mean she didn't like it. "I see…well, I guess we'll just have to make the time we have together count."
"Exactly!" Ino smiled.
The food was wonderful, full of flavor and filling their stomachs. All ingredients were fresh and clean, straight from the small garden outside. Tsubaki was an amazing cook.
The night slowly came over the world. The stars shined bright in the dark sky. The view was spectacular. A view Sakura would never get tired of seeing. Nearly every night, Sakura would find an open area with no light pollution and watch the stars above the world.
Nighttime was always the worst for Sakura. That is when she would start to think about everything that had been happening and it would make her sad. From her missing teammate, Sasuke, to actually missing her other male teammate, Naruto. Her relationship with her mother and all the arguments they have. Everything would weigh on her mind and the sadness would follow.
Sakura hated going to bed in a depressed mood. Sometimes she would stay up late until she simply would pass out from the exhaustion of the day. But there was always one sure fire way that would always give her some kind of cheer before she would go off to bed.
It was a picture of Team Seven. The team picture they took after their first completed mission. Looking at that picture always made her smile. She was reminded of all the good times they had, together and individually. Every time she looked at the picture, she was filled with the determination to train harder and become as strong as she could be.
But probably the biggest memory Sakura was given from the picture was of the night before Naruto left for his training. Lady Tsunade had requested that the villagers put on a festival. It took some convincing on Sakura's part, but Naruto agreed to go. Crowds and the festival atmosphere really were not in Naruto's realm of comfort. But he went because she wanted to. And that was enough for him.
The two played street games, ate some good food from the local vendors, even hung out with some of their comrades who were there. The main positive was that the villagers mostly left Naruto alone. Sure, they were stares but everyone kept whatever they wanted to say to themselves. Sakura hoped that meant something good.
"Sakura?"
The pinkette turned to see Aoi coming up to her. "Oh, hey Aoi. What are you still doing up?"
"Just trouble sleeping, I guess. Mind if I join you?" Sakura motioned for her to sit down. "Thank you." The girl noticed the picture in the older girl's hand. "Who are they?"
"Oh. This is my genin team back home…or at least, it was."
"What do you mean 'it was'?"
Sakura sighed sadly. "Kakashi sensei has been super busy with the war efforts that I never get to see him."
"Is he the cyclops looking one?"
The chūnin chuckled. "Yeah. He's a great teacher. He taught us a lot of good life lessons and how to be a good shinobi."
Aoi nodded. She pointed at the black haired Uchiha. "What's his name? He looks mysterious. And cute."
"…That's Sasuke. He was the top genin in our graduating class. He's super strong and really smart. He was…kidnapped by a man named Orochimaru. We still have no idea where he is. And yes, he is very cute."
"I'm sorry to hear that. How long ago did this happen?"
"Over a year ago now. But me and Naruto are going to bring him back! We promised each other that!"
Aoi looked at the photo again. "Is Naruto that one? The blonde with the whisker marks? He's pretty cute too."
Sakura nodded; her mood was significantly better than when she talked about Sasuke. And Aoi noticed. "Yeah! That's him. Those are birth marks. He's…" Suddenly, Sakura was having trouble describing him. She was unsure what to say. "…he's a really great guy. He puts on a rough and tough act but he's all soft once you get to know him. Well, he's nice to me, anyway." She giggled. "He's out training with Lord Jiraiya at some mountain a long way from here. I'm sure he's gotten a lot stronger." She turned somber for a moment. "I think I miss him more than anything…"
"Wow…" Aoi had a small smirk. "You must really like him." Sakura's face went red. "Really really like him."
"I do not!"
"Yes, you totally do!" Aoi laughed. "Or else you wouldn't acting like this!"
An odd scene. A twelve-year-old teasing a fourteen-year-old. And they only met a day ago and they were acting like old friends. When people share experiences then they grow closer, no matter what the time frame was.
But unbeknownst to them, there was another one awake and she had been watching and listening in on their conversation. Hinata always had trouble sleeping when she was not in her home inside the Hyūga Compound. She was going to go for a small walk to tire herself out but stopped when she overheard Sakura talking. She knew it was wrong to eavesdrop, but she did anyway.
Her heart began to beat faster, her anxiety was running into overdrive.
'Sakura likes…Naruto…?'
But how? Hinata thought Sakura was strictly in love with Sasuke. She seemed pretty devoted to the Uchiha during their academy days and well into their time as a team. And as far as Hinata was aware, Naruto had no special feelings for her. Or anyone for that matter. Hinata hoped she'd be the one to change that. She just to actually get the nerve to do that.
'Maybe Naruto saved her life, and she's likes him now because of that?'
Multiple scenes and ideas popped into the girl's mind about what it could be and how it happened. But in the end, the girl new she was overthinking. Ever since she first was introduced to the young jinchuriki, Hinata was silently infatuated with him. His work ethic. The way he carried himself and his confidence. It was like she had her own private 'Sasuke'. The real icing on the cake was when he used her name as a reason to beat Neji in the Chunin Exams. That gave her hope.
But maybe the hope was already lost by then. Hinata vividly remembered Naruto jumped in to protect Sakura after her match against Neji. She heard about how Sakura went after Gaara and tried to fight him. Only for Naruto and Sasuke to come in and save her. Whenever Sakura was in danger, Naruto was never far behind.
But maybe it was strictly looks. Naruto was very handsome. She always thought Naruto was better looking than Sasuke ever was. And now that he was training under Lord Jiraiya, there was no way of telling how much his body would develop. Her imagination was running wild…
Even Hinata had to admit, Sakura was growing into a beautiful young woman. She was growing out her hair, her body was changing and filling out amazingly, and her voice was just smooth as silk. Her and Ino both were doing some major body development. Hinata hoped her development would start soon and she could have growth like that.
'Damn you…Sakura!'
-Hokage's Office-
Tsunade had to massage her temples to soothe the growing headache from the pure shock she was feeling. The constant reminder of the war was stressing enough, now this.
"So, you're telling me an ANBU operative from our village took one of the two leaves, correct?" Sakura nodded in confirmation. "Great…a rouge ANBU? What else could go wrong?"
"I'm sorry m'lady. I should've done more to stop him."
"It's not your fault. Your battle strength has improved, Sakura, but you're nowhere near an ANBU yet. None of you are." She sighed. "I'll put out a BOLO for him but, since all his features were covered, I doubt we'll come up with something."
"What was the type of mask?" Shikaku asked.
"A weasel, master." Ino answered. Shikaku's eyebrow raised in suspicion. "And his voice sounded distorted. I think he was using a jutsu to conceal his real voice."
"Well, that doesn't this any easier." Shikaku stated.
"Hopefully something turns up." Tsunade tapped her desk impatiently. "Maybe I'll have Jiraiya talk to his contacts and see if they can find anything out."
"Master Jiraiya?" Sakura gasped. She was a glimmer of hope in her eyes.
The Hokage nodded. "Jiraiya sent an update while you were on your mission. The training is going well. He's progressing like he always has." There no question on who he was.
Happiness and pride shot through Sakura like an arrow. "Is the messenger frog still here?"
Tsunade shook her head. "I'm sorry. He came and left."
"Oh…" Sakura hoped she could have sent a letter or something. This was the first update she had heard on Naruto's training. At least it was something.
"The three of you are dismissed. Good work on the mission."
"Thank you, Lady Hokage." The three said in unison, although Hinata was rather quiet about it. She had been quiet most of the journey back to Konoha, and when she was not, she only spoke to Ino.
The three chūnin kunoichi made their way outside of the Hokage Tower and began to go their separate ways.
"Hinata, wait a minute." Sakura called out.
The Hyūga heir stopped and turned to face the pinkette. "What, Sakura?"
Sakura was taken back at Hinata's sharp tone. "A-Are you upset with me or something? Why the harsh tone?"
Hinata narrowed her eyes. "Don't play dumb. You know what you're doing."
"What am I doing? What on earth are you talking about?"
"Just stay out of my way, Sakura. He will be mien someday." Nothing more was said. Hinata turned and walked away.
Sakura was left alone and extremely confused. 'What's gotten into her? Did I do something wrong?'
Deciding to not dwell on such a confusing situation, Sakura began her trek home as the sun set over the village. The events of the last few days had taken a toll on Sakura, leaving her mentally and physically exhausted. All she wanted was to eat some food, bathe, and fall asleep. Possibly even give herself a small pleasurable reward…
Sakura shook her head free of those kind of thoughts. If she were to do any of those activities, she would have to get past her mother first.
'I'm so not in the mood to fight with her tonight.'
Sakura approached the front door of her house. The sound of her parents stopped her from entering. They were fighting. About her.
"Why do always have to defend her, Kizashi?!"
"What do you mean? She's my daughter!"
"We need to keep her away from that boy! He's dangerous! And I don't want her to get hurt!"
"He very well might be dangerous. But we can't stop her from seeing him. They're on the same team. And she's a ninja, Mebuki, danger is in the job."
Sakura could see her mother rolling her eyes at the statement. "Precisely why I didn't want her being a ninja in the first place! We've lost so many friends to that title."
"I know that, dear, but just because you were forced by your parents to be a shinobi when you were younger does not mean we have to force Sakura away from it. We agreed when she was born to let her find her own way in life."
Sakura's eyes went wide in shock. 'I didn't know mom was a shinobi…'
"I know that…But I just can't shake the feeling that boy will somehow…I just don't want her around him."
"Well, he's been gone with Lord Jiraiya. He's not an issue to us right now."
"But he'll be back one day. What then?"
Kizashi sighed. "I don't know. But we'll figure it out."
Sakura stood at the front door of her house. She was not sure for how long, but she couldn't bring herself to open the door and go inside. She had no more fight in her. She was so over her parents and how they were trying to run her life. She could not remember how many times her mother threatened to go to the Hokage to revoke her status as a ninja.
Sakura was completely over living underneath their roof. She wanted out.
-Hokage's Office-
"Are you sure that's who wore the mask last?"
Shikaku nodded. "There's no question about. ANBU never lose their mask. Rouge or not."
Tsunade rubbed her chin thoughtfully. "Why on earth would Itachi Uchiha be there? The even greater question, why would he take one of the leaves?"
"An Akatsuki plan, no doubt." Shikaku stated. "But that raises further questions than answers."
Tsunade sighed, frustration overwhelming her mind. "I'll pass along the information to Shizune so she can inform Jiraiya when she goes back to heal Naruto."
"How's he doing? Is he recovering well?"
"His arm was far worse than I thought. That new jutsu he developed attacks on such a microscopic level and is so volatile that he takes damage from it as well. He's lucky that the chakra system in his arm wasn't completely destroyed. I did the main repairs, but Shizune is going to make sure it's properly healed so that he can get cleared to train again."
"Hopefully, it wasn't too bad of a set back for him."
Tsunade chuckled. "I know how he works. There's no way he's just laying around. If he isn't training, he's studying. Jiraiya had him practicing sealing techniques and learning how to write them properly."
Shikaku chuckled as well. "Good to hear."
There was a knock at the door, surprising them both.
"Uh, come in?" Tsunade was curious to see who was coming to see her unannounced, at such a late hour as well. The door opened to reveal her young, pink haired student. "Sakura, what are you doing here? I dismissed you for the evening." She noticed the somber and serious expression on Sakura's face. "Is everything alright?"
"Yes ma'am…I just need some help."
Tsunade had an idea on what the girl was talking about. "Shikaku…you're dismissed for now. I'll send for you if anything comes up."
Shikaku nodded. "Sure thing. I'll be back in the morning. Have a good one." The man gave a small, lazy wave as he left the office.
"Is this about your parents, Sakura?"
Sakura looked at her master in shock. "H-How'd you know?"
"I'm more aware than you possibly realize, Sakura. Just because I am stuck in this office most of the day does not mean I'm out of the loop." The Hokage moved around to stand in front of her student. "So, talk to me."
Sakura sighed heavily. "I just…I'm so sick of fighting! Ever since Naruto left, my mother has been on me about everything! And she constantly objects my friendship with Naruto and belittles him at almost every turn! I just can't stand to be in the same house as her anymore!" Sakura was breathing heavier than she would have liked but she really needed to vent.
Tsunade remained neutral. "What about your father?"
"My dad doesn't do anything! He just sits there and let's my mom say whatever she wants to me and about Naruto! He used to defend me! What changed?! I don't fucking know!" Tears formed the corner of her eyes. "Damn…!" She quickly wiped them away.
Tsunade placed a comforting hand on her student's shoulder. "It's okay, Sakura. You can let it out."
"No…" She sniffled. "I'm okay. I just can't stand to be there anymore. I need stay somewhere else for a little while. Is there any where I can do for the night? Possibly longer?"
Tsunade was unsure on how to handle this. She wanted to help Sakura, but she didn't to overstep as a teacher and a leader. It did not look good on a Hokage to step into a family matter like this, personal connection to it or not. But Sakura was her student, this her responsibility. Tsunade had to do something. If this continued, it might start affecting her training and work.
The Hokage sighed. "Well, I can give you place to go to when you need a break. Technically, I can't give you your own place outright without parent permission since your still underage." She opened a drawer and pulled out an apartment key. "Here. This is Naruto's apartment key." She tossed over to her.
Sakura caught the key. "Naruto's apartment?"
"It's just been collecting dust since he left. It probably needs a good cleaning. This is the best I can do, Sakura. And it keeps me in the clear because if anyone tries to get me in trouble for this, I can say he left you the key."
Sakura held the key in her hand. She felt relief washing over her. She finally had a place to go and would not get screamed at. "Thank you, Lady Tsunade."
"Don't mention it, Sakura." The woman sat down in her desk chair. "Oh, by the way, there's something you should know. I didn't want to say this in front of the others earlier. Shizune is going to be making a trip to Mount Myōboku."
"Why is Shizune going there?"
"Naruto was injured during training and needs some extra help with his recovery."
"Injured?!" Sakura was unaware of how loud she spoke. "What happened?! Is he okay?!"
"Yes, Sakura. He's fine." The woman chuckled. "It shouldn't be too serious now. He had a mishap with a new jutsu. I did most of the repairs. Shizune is just going to finish up the recover and get him back to training."
"Wait…when did you go? I've been with you nearly everyday."
"It happened while you were away on your mission. I actually returned not too long before you arrived back in the village."
"I see. Well, I hope he's okay. I wish I could tell him myself…"
"Shizune isn't leaving until the morning. If you want anything given or said to him, I know Shizune won't have an issue passing it along."
The girl lit up with excitement and happiness. "Of course, m'lady! Don't worry, I'll have something for him pronto!" She turned and ran out of the office. "Thank you again!"
Tsunade simply chuckled. 'Ah. To be young and in love.'