Chapter 40: In Lieu of Sazanami

Chapter Summary: Unable to extract Sazanami for fear of his injuries, Team 8 and Naruto bide the time with city activities.

Words: 3,350

Published: 11/17/23

Next Morning, Kamurodate

While Sazanami's condition remained critical, the group decided to pass the time by searching for odd jobs and opportunities to help those in need. They split up into groups, each taking on different tasks to make a positive impact on the people of Kamurodate.

Kurenai, with her keen sense of leadership, went with Kiba, Akamaru, and Shino. She had a particular reason for this arrangement, but she kept her thoughts to herself, not wanting to make it explicit. Her unspoken decision allowed Hinata to be alone with Naruto, a gesture born from her desire to allow Hinata to be with her crush, hoping to spark some confidence in the girl.

Kurenai, Kiba, Akamaru, and Shino's group discovered an opportunity to make a positive impact by volunteering at a local food drive. The event was bustling with activity, with volunteers and beneficiaries coming together to support those in need.

Kurenai's leadership skills came into play as she organized her team, ensuring they efficiently distributed food and provided assistance to the people who had come to receive aid. Kiba and Akamaru's energy and enthusiasm, along with Shino's meticulous attention to detail, made them a valuable addition to the event.

As they worked together, they could see the gratitude and relief in the faces of those they were helping, a reminder of the importance of lending a helping hand to those less fortunate. It was a day well spent, where their efforts contributed to the betterment of the community, even as they continued their mission to uncover the enigmatic truths of Kamurodate.

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Middle of City

As Hinata and Naruto spent time alone together, Hinata couldn't help but feel a sense of anxiety. The quiet moments allowed her thoughts to wander, and the growing connection between her and Naruto had left her feeling a mix of emotions, from nervousness to excitement.

Meanwhile, as Naruto walked through the streets, he came across a homeless man who appeared to be in need. Without hesitation, he reached into his pocket and gave the man some money. The homeless man, touched by Naruto's kindness, looked at him with gratitude and began to share his story.

With a weary smile, he told the boy, "Thank you, young man, for your kindness. I've been on these streets for years now, and it's not often that someone shows a stranger compassion."

Naruto replied with a friendly nod, "No problem. I've been through tough times too. Can't just walk by when I see someone in need... So, what happened to you, if you don't mind me asking?"

The homeless man sighed. "I was once a wealthy man, had a good job, a nice house, a loving family. But then, my employer accused me of embezzlement. They pinned the whole scheme on me, and I lost everything. Job, reputation, even my family. It's been years, and I'm still trying to clear my name."

Naruto had been listening intently. "That's rough, really rough. I can't imagine what you've been through."

"It's a harsh world out here, young man. But people like you, who show kindness to a stranger, they give me hope that there's still good out there."

Naruto grinned. "Don't lose hope. Things can change. Maybe one day, you'll find a way to clear your name and get back on your feet."

Their brief conversation was a reminder of the impact that small acts of kindness could have in a world filled with challenges and hardships. Naruto's empathy and willingness to listen were a beacon of hope for the man who had lost everything.

Naruto's heart went out to the man, knowing that there were injustices in the world that needed to be made right. Their encounter served as a reminder of the complexities and challenges that they were facing, not only in their pursuit of the Uchiha clan's mysteries but also in the everyday lives of those around them.

The blonde, ready to continue his journey, turned to leave but then hesitated. He faced the homeless man and asked, "Hey, before I go, what's your name?"

The homeless man, a glimmer of gratitude in his eyes, responded, "My name's Gojo. Thank you for stopping and talking with me."

Naruto leaned in, a mischievous glint in his eye, as he shared a daring scheme with Gojo. "How about we pull a little good ol'-fashioned revenge on your old boss? We can make him pay for what he did to you."

Gojo, intrigued by the idea, listened closely as Naruto explained the plan. They would present Gojo as having become independently wealthy in his fictional absence from Kamurodate, with a desire to buy land. Gojo would then inform his old boss that he needed a natural-born citizen of Kamurodate to co-sign a loan, luring the boss out to an empty plot of land for inspection.

While Gojo kept the boss occupied, Naruto would sneak into the boss's office, searching for evidence of any criminal activity or wrongdoing. Once the evidence was found, they could hand it over to the police, effectively ruining the boss's reputation and bringing justice to the situation.

It was a bold plan, but Naruto's determination and Gojo's desire for retribution fueled their resolve. They understood that the scheme carried risks, but they were willing to take a chance to make things right and ensure that those who had wronged others would face the consequences of their actions.

As Naruto and Gojo discussed their daring scheme, Hinata finally mustered up the courage to speak. She knew that she wanted to contribute and be a part of the plan. With a slight quiver in her voice, she asked, "What can I do to help?"

Naruto, distracted by the intimacy of his conversation with Gojo, realized he had forgotten about her, and asked, "Oh, right... What can you do?"

Hinata's heart sank at Naruto's unintentional dismissal of her offer to help, but she hid her hurt feelings and suggested, "I could... I could masquerade as Gojo's daughter. It might add credibility to the story, and I could assist with the plan that way."

Naruto quickly nodded and offered a genuine smile. "Hinata, that's a great idea. You can definitely help by playing that role, and your quiet nature's gonna come in clutch, too, to convince the guy. Thanks for coming up with it. Looks like we're all set."

Hinata, relieved and encouraged by Naruto's response, felt a warm blush creep to her cheeks. She was ready to play her part in their daring scheme and be a valuable contributor to their mission.

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Their first stop was a public bathhouse, where Gojo could shed the dirt and grime that had marked his time on the streets. After a thorough bath and a fresh change of clothes, he already looked like a different person.

Next, they took Gojo to a skilled barber who expertly shaved off his rugged beard and trimmed his long hair into a neat, short style. The transformation continued as they headed to a tailor, who provided Gojo with a sleek, professional suit that fit him perfectly.

The once-rugged, dirty-bearded, long-haired, and raggedy-clothed man had undergone a remarkable change. Clean, clean-shaven, with short graying hair, and dressed in a sharp suit, Gojo now looked the part of a wealthy entrepreneur, ready to enact their daring plan.

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Afternoon

As Gojo, dressed in his professional attire, emerged from the tall, sleek building with Hinata and his former boss, Naruto stood in a discreet alleyway, watching their every move. Gojo was successfully luring his boss to a faraway plot of land, setting the stage for their plan to unfold.

While Gojo and his boss walked towards the distant location, Naruto seized the opportunity to act. He discreetly made his way into the building, determined to search for evidence that could expose any criminal activity and bring justice to Gojo's plight. With each silent step, he moved deeper into the building, ready to uncover the secrets hidden within.

Sneaking in was easier than he has expected, as his unusual knack for stealth came to play. Before long, he had reached the office.

Naruto, determined to uncover evidence within the office, began his search by rummaging through cabinets and files. As he searched, he came across a locked safe with a combination dial. Remembering Kin's affinity for exceptional hearing from the experience of being stuck in her body in the Forest of Death, he decided to employ aural-focused chakra to listen for the numbers of the combination.

With intense concentration, Naruto closed his eyes and extended his chakra senses, letting them guide him. He carefully listened for any subtle sounds that might reveal the numbers he needed. As the clicks and subtle vibrations of the combination lock reached his temporarily-heightened senses, he pieced together the correct sequence. With a triumphant twist of the dial, he unlocked the safe and revealed the contents inside, hoping to find the evidence they needed to bring justice to Gojo's situation.

Naruto's fingers deftly flipped through the files and documents in the safe, each discovery bringing him closer to the evidence he sought. As he examined the contents, his heart pounded with determination. The first set of relevant documents he found was a collection of photographs used for blackmail, depicting various individuals in compromising situations. It was clear that these photos were tools of manipulation, a sinister way for Gojo's boss to exert control over others.

Next, Naruto came across a series of bank statements, revealing a complex web of financial transactions. These documents unveiled the extent of Gojo's boss's financial activities, suggesting a trail of deceit and corruption. The numbers on the statements told a story of money flowing into various accounts, likely as part of the embezzlement scheme.

As he continued his search, Naruto stumbled upon a financial journal that detailed just how the money Gojo's boss paid to government workers was used to cut corners and overlook legal regulations. It was a damning record of corruption, shedding light on how Gojo's boss had maintained his position of power through unethical means.

Among the documents, Naruto found the most critical evidence of all; statements that clearly proved Gojo's innocence in the embezzlement case. They showcased a meticulous record of the funds being transferred and embezzled, with Gojo's boss's name glaringly present as the true perpetrator. It was the proverbial smoking gun they had been searching for, the evidence that would not only clear Gojo's name but also expose his boss's crimes to the world.

The weight of the documents in his hands was immense, and Naruto knew that this evidence could change Gojo's life and bring justice to the corrupt individuals involved. With the critical evidence now in his possession, Naruto made sure to secure the files and documents, ensuring they could be used to achieve their goal and right the wrongs that had plagued Gojo's life for far too long.

With the critical evidence in hand and a burning desire for justice, Naruto decided to take a few extra measures of revenge against Gojo's boss. He sat down at the boss's computer and, taking cue the information he had uncovered, sent a single email to all of the boss's associates.

I'm coming clean about everything.

As the emails were sent, Naruto couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. The truth would soon be out, and the city of Kamurodate would receive the shocking revelation of the man's criminal activities. It was a form of revenge and retribution, a way to ensure that justice was served and that Gojo's boss and his associates faced the consequences of their actions.

Naruto then removed a few stacks of cash from the safe he had opened, hoping to change Gojo's life with it.

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As Naruto left the office, he couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. The truth was out, and the evidence was in the right hands to ensure justice was served. News of Gojo's boss's misdeeds spread rapidly, and panic spread through corporate bees as the boss's reputation crumbled.

In an alley not far from the office, Naruto rendezvoused with Gojo and Hinata. He handed Gojo the cash he had stolen earlier, the money that was wrongfully taken from him, and the very reason for Gojo's downfall.

Gojo couldn't express his gratitude enough, and he turned to Naruto with heartfelt words. "Naruto, you've given me a second chance at life. I can't thank you enough for what you've done. I'll never forget this."

Naruto smiled warmly, appreciating Gojo's words. "You deserve this fresh start, Gojo. Just remember to make the most of it. Your past won't define your future. Take care."

With that, they exchanged a firm handshake and parted ways, Gojo now on a path towards a brighter future, thanks to Naruto's unwavering determination and the pursuit of justice.

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Late Afternoon

Back at the hotel, after their successful mission and the day's events, Hinata found herself caught up in a burst of confidence. As they entered their room, her heart raced, and she couldn't resist the impulse to express her gratitude and admiration for Naruto.

Without thinking, Hinata approached Naruto and wrapped her arms around him, giving him an affectionate hug. "Naruto, you were amazing today," she said, her voice filled with admiration. "I'm so proud of what you've done."

Hinata's hug was gentle yet sincere. She wrapped her arms around Naruto's torso, and her body pressed softly against his. Her embrace conveyed a sense of warmth and admiration, and she held onto him for a moment longer than usual, wanting to express her feelings clearly.

Naruto, though appreciative of her gesture, felt a slight discomfort he couldn't hide. He didn't like physical contact like this, except with Sakura. It wasn't that he didn't value Hinata's sentiments; it was simply a discomfort with such displays of affection that made him a bit uneasy. Despite this, he managed to return her embrace, understanding the sincerity behind her actions.

He managed a courteous smile and replied, "Thanks, Hinata. It means a lot coming from you."

It was an unexpected moment for both of them, a subtle shift in their relationship. Naruto appreciated Hinata's words and gesture, even if it made him slightly uneasy. Hinata, on the other hand, found herself gaining confidence and becoming bolder, thanks to her inner desire to mirror Naruto.

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Early Evening

As the rest of the team returned to the hotel, Kurenai shared a piece of news she had picked up. "You won't believe this, guys. The stock market took a massive dip today because of some notorious corporate bigwig being exposed as a cheat. Seems like karma finally caught up with them."

Naruto couldn't help but connect the dots, though he didn't reveal the source of this revelation. He realized that what he had done earlier in the day, obtaining and releasing the incriminating evidence, had a more significant impact than he could have anticipated. It was a silent acknowledgment of the far-reaching consequences of his actions and a reminder of the power of truth and justice.

Kurenai continued, "I can't help but worry about the common people who will be hit hardest by this stock market dip. It's a tough situation for them."

Naruto, his mind filled with thoughts of his own involvement, responded, "Yeah, it's really unfortunate. But sometimes, y'know, these things happen, and it's not always easy to predict."

Naruto's response was deliberately vague, avoiding any mention of his role in the events that had unfolded. He kept his thoughts to himself, realizing the complex nature of the situation and the unintended consequences of his actions.

Kurenai's added, "Speaking of tough situations, let me tell you about the food drive we worked at today. It's amazing how people come together to help those in need. Well - - first, Naruto, Hinata, what did you two end up doing today?"

Naruto, exchanging a cautious look with Hinata, replied with a fabrication. "Oh, we helped set up a lemonade stand. You know, to keep everyone refreshed while they were working. It was fun."

Hinata nodded in agreement, going along with Naruto's story, even though she knew it was far from the truth. They both shared a knowing look, keeping their real mission under wraps, at least for now.

Kurenai chuckled at Naruto's lemonade stand story. "Hopefully it's hard lemonade; with the way the stock market is right now, people might need a little booze to cope with the economic crisis."

Naruto gave a weak smile, not sure how to respond to her comment. He couldn't help but feel that Kurenai's joke had inadvertently touched on his growing hidden guilt, making him even more cautious about revealing the truth of their actions.

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Nightime

As the evening progressed, Naruto couldn't help but notice the subtle changes in Hinata's demeanor. Her guilt seemed to be growing, just as his own weighed on him. It was as if the weight of their actions and the lies they had told was slowly becoming more burdensome for her.

Naruto couldn't ignore the unease in her eyes, and he realized that they were both wrestling with their consciences. They had embarked on a mission with good intentions, but the secrets and lies were taking their toll, making him wonder how much longer they could keep up the facade.

In the quiet of her room, Naruto approached Hinata, concerned about the growing guilt he could see in her eyes. She began to speak, stuttering profusely but managing to convey her inner turmoil.

"N-Naruto, I... I can't bear the guilt anymore. It's weighing on me so much."

Naruto placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, urging her to keep her composure. "Hinata, I know it's tough, but we can't let this show. We have to keep our cool, blurting it out isn't gonna make anything better."

Hinata nodded, her resolve firming as she listened to Naruto's advice. "Y-yes, you're right, Naruto. But... is there any way to make the guilt go away?"

Naruto considered her question and then suggested, "Maybe when we're back in the village, you could talk to Ino. She might be able to help with that... you know, remove the memory of that day, or something."

Hinata was momentarily shocked by Naruto's suggestion, but her desire to not displease him and to alleviate her own guilt quickly overtook her initial surprise. She nodded weakly, her voice barely above a whisper. "Y-yes, Naruto. It's... it's an idea worth pursuing. I'll consider it."

Naruto could see her inner conflict, but he appreciated her willingness to entertain the idea. He offered a supportive nod and said, "Good, Hinata. We'll figure this out together. For now, let's get some rest. Tomorrow's a new day, y'know."

Hinata gave a small but grateful smile, her heart heavy with the burden of their secret but also comforted by Naruto's understanding and support.

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Naruto's Room

As Naruto lay in his bed, thoughts of morality and the implications of his recent actions weighed heavily on his mind. He couldn't help but question himself, his own capacity to commit actions that straddled the line between good and evil. It troubled him that even if he didn't mean to, their mission had led them to deceive and manipulate.

And why was I so ready to suggest that Hinata have her memory wiped?

It was a question that gnawed at his conscience. The desire to protect Hinata and ease her guilt was genuine, but it led him to consider a solution that felt morally hollow.

Naruto's internal struggle continued as he contemplated the complexities of his world. He couldn't help but feel the weight of the choices he had made, even if they were made with the best intentions in mind.

And to think, this whole thing started because of a chase that led to Itachi, disguised as a thief he'd killed even before we got the mission... There's no way he could've known I'd end up doing something like this, right?

Feeling anxious that Itachi may have somehow planned for this, Naruto examined the map on his nightstand.

Akamaru could get a whiff of this and track down Itachi... I'm sure Kurenai-sensei knows. Maybe she thinks it's too dangerous. And she'd be right to think so...

He pushed the thought out of his mind and succumbed to sleep.

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