"What?" Tsunade asked in disbelief.

Homura repeated his statement. "I said we saw the tape. We know your apprentice is in league with the Akatsuki." Homura sighed, feeling that both she and Hiruzen were always too soft. "I know this must be difficult for you, but a traitor is a traitor. We must-"

"You creeps stay away from her!" Naruto yelled, tightly gripping Sakura's sleeping form. "It wasn't her fault!!"

Koharu looked at him in disbelief and contempt. "Uzumaki, you should know that she did not simply switch sides; she's in league with the Akatsuki, the very group that is pursuing you."

"You don't know anything!! All these years she has tried to keep me safe from Akatsuki!! Do you think I would defend her if she joined them!?" Naruto continued to yell.

Koharu quickly gave her reply. "Uchiha Sasuke deliberately tried to kill you all those years ago, and your actions towards him since then have been anything but logical. And look where that got us!" Naruto bit his lips until they drew blood. If he lacked any self control, he would have squeezed Sakura until she bruised.

"It's a tragedy, and on this matter I do sympathize with you, Tsunade-sama." Everyone turned to see Danzo walk from behind Koharu and Homura to face them. "But the facts are the facts. We have absolute proof that she is now an agent for Akatsuki; I wouldn't be surprised if she turns out to have been a double agent for years."

Everyone with Naruto couldn't believe what they were hearing. "How could they have known? Ba-chan destroyed the…" It hit Naruto like a ton of bricks. "Another copy must have been made! And the only way Danzo could have gotten that tape…" Naruto's eyes briefly flashed red, but he managed to control himself. Just barely, anyway. "…Akatsuki. Danzo is the real agent of Akatsuki here…"

Tsunade was thinking the exact same thing. "There's no way to prove it. He may have cut all ties now. Thankfully…I saw this coming." Quickly, Tsunade regained her composure. "The evidence is strong, that I will acknowledge. And I have prepared myself to accept the worst case scenario." Naruto nearly balked at her decision.

Koharu lowered her head. "I'm afraid, for precaution…"

"That won't be necessary." Tsunade interrupted. "Not anymore. The Tsuchikage was killed by an Akatsuki member. Which means the war is over. Therefore, she must undergo trial."

Danzo gritted his teeth. "Damn! This was the perfect opportunity to make the jinchuriki go berserk!" Danzo calmed himself. "No need to panic. I may have only one piece of evidence, but it should be enough. The process may be slower than I wanted, but Kizu did warn me, and I have prepared myself."

"Very well." Koharu said. "Then she will proceed through a court martial, as do all convicted criminals during times of peace. But let me warn you, Hokage-sama: The evidence against her is overwhelming. Even if the defense convinces both the shinobi council that she is not to be held responsible for her actions, her activities will most likely be restricted within the village."

Tsunade sighed regretfully. "Understood."

ANBU ninja, most likely root, appeared. "We'll take her from here, Uzumaki…"

"Get the hell away from her!!" the blonde screamed, baring predator-like teeth.

"Naruto, stop it!!" Tsunade shouted. Both parties froze, then she turned her attention to the council members. "Sakura is exhausted from her ordeal. I think it would be courteous to let her sleep in a real bed, and perhaps prepare her for what's about to happen once she wakes up." Tsunade looked at Naruto. "Naruto, perhaps you would be willing to accommodate Sakura?" Saying that in public caused Naruto to blush, but he wasn't about to turn that down.

"Absurd!" Danzo shouted. "The two are teammates! How do I know his bias will not cause him to escape with her!!"

"That's a pretty stupid statement gramps, especially for you!" Every one turned to Shiguri. "I don't know much about this group you're talking about." Shiguri looked at the elder council members. "But I can tell by the way you talked to sensei that this group is out to get him. If Sakura really joined them, there's no way in hell he would be this protective of her now!! He said so himself!!"

There was a moment of silence. In his mind, Naruto chuckled, thinking of his actions towards Sasuke. "How wrong you are, Shiguri. I guess I'm an idiot in that sense." He thought. Best not to let the elders in on that.

"As I said, Uzumaki's actions towards Uchiha alone are reason alone for me to believe otherwise." Koharu stated. "However, if Homura will allow it, I will take pity on her and allow her freedom to rest."

To this, Homura responded. "I will allow it. I've grown quite fond of Sakura over the years. I feel I should at least allow her that."

Naruto breathed deeply, still upset about the situation but for now would relent. "Fair enough."

Koharu interjected. "If we won't take her to the dungeon just yet, perhaps it would be best if we left her with her family until she recovers?"

Tsunade answered "Her father is out on reconnaissance in Earth Country. And I think it would be a wise idea not to inform her mother just yet."

The two council members nodded, then turned to Danzo. He gave a reluctant sigh. "Very well. Toba! Fume! Escort Uzumaki and Haruno to his residence! Do not let them out of your sight!"

With that, those that fought in the last battle made their way down back to Konoha. Naruto so desperately wanted to caress Sakura at this point. "It will be alright, Sakura-chan…I promise!"

While no one was looking, Tsunade turned to Kakashi. She gave him an odd look, to which Kakashi responded with a thumbs up. "Good. He's got it." They both anticipated their efforts to cover up Sakura's apparent betrayal would backfire. But at least now she had a fighting chance.

"Hnnn…" Sakura woke up, feeling terrible, but better than before. "Ugh. So tired…" Sakura's thoughts and memories were jumbled, but her mind frantically tried to get everything in order. "Tobi…controlled…Hinata…" Finally it all came to her. Sakura shot up from the bed, and froze. After a minute, she calmed herself and fell back down. "Thank Kami I'm free!" she screamed in her mind. She wanted to set about doing other things, but she felt so tired still. "All this stress hasn't been doing me much good. Might be best for everyone if I rest a bit more."

Just as she was about to snuggle into the covers, she couldn't help but notice the orange color of the blankets. Her blankets were red…which meant she wasn't in her room. "Could this be the hospital? No, the sheets are blue and the beds aren't anywhere near as comfortable as this. Wait, if it's orange…" She quickly turned to her side and saw Naruto, sleeping in a chair he brought next to her.

Sakura's first instinct was to wake him up. But at the same time, he looked so peaceful. Sakura decided to relax into her host's bed and watch him. Sakura had to chuckle at how his head tilted to the side, with a bit of drool flowing out of his mouth. Not long ago, she would have whacked him and woke him up. But now, she felt like she understood Naruto better than anyone else, and the quirks about him that she once found annoying…turned out to be actually quite cute. It felt like she watched him for an eternity when he finally started coming to.

Sakura smiled at the look he gave her when he realized she woke up before he did. "Sakura-chan?"

Sakura only giggled in response. "Morning, Sleepy-Head."

"Awww, that's what I was supposed to call you. I've practicing my smiles all night last night." Naruto retorted.

Sakura attempted to stifle more laughter, with great failure of course. Quickly though, Sakura's face turned serious as she remembered yesterday. "Naruto…is every one okay?"

Naruto grimaced as he prepared to inform Sakura. "Most everyone. Kakashi-sensei and Yuji are hospitalized, but Ba-chan told me they would be okay. She's probably healed them by now, but I'd imagine they will be off duty for a while. Hinata was hurt badly, so she won't be discharged for some time now. But she's going to pull through."

Sakura nodded, and then looked down at what she was wearing. She still had the same shorts and stockings, but she was now wearing a large t-shirt as well, and could feel that she had no bra on, which unsettled her greatly.

Before she could ask what was going on, Naruto handed her some spare clothes, which she could tell actually belonged to her, and wrinkled his nose. That last part caught Sakura's attention; back when they were both chunin, they had to go on minor stealth missions together. They both agreed back then that because their hands needed to be near their weapons at all times, they needed a sign language involving facial expressions. Naruto made most of it up, and of course Sakura thought it was downright weird and unnecessary at the time. But it worked, so she went with it. Naruto's nose wrinkle meant "Don't say a word". "Ba-chan got these from your mother; she told her you were in the hospital and no visitors were allowed. Get dressed; we need to talk."

Sakura finally walked out of Naruto's bedroom, now wearing her casual red blouse and denim skirt. Before she could even call his name, she saw him put something on two plates: Bacon and Eggs! Almost as if her own stomach had eyes, it growled. "That sounded more like a roar!" she thought. She then realized that she hadn't eaten anything in almost 3 days, and the hunger pangs became almost unbearable. "Uhh…Naruto…"

As if reading her mind, Naruto looked at the skillet and said "Sorry, Sakura. I haven't been able to stock up for quite a while now. This is all I really have. I'm afraid you'll have to swallow a food pill or two after this."

Sakura sighed disappointedly. While food pills effectively provided people with whatever nutrition their body needed without risk of starvation, it was not as satisfying as eating real food and feeling it in one's stomach. "It'll have to do."

Normally, Naruto would scarf down whatever he had in front of him while Sakura took time and relished her food. Now their characteristic eating behaviors were reversed. Sakura brought the plate to her and made it look like she swiped every morsel in one bite, while Naruto looked at her stunned. Sakura herself was aware of her unusual behavior, but couldn't help it. "Sorry." She chuckled nervously, as she wiped what food morsels were stuck on her lips with a napkin.

"I understand." Naruto chuckled, just thankful that Sakura was back. But he dreaded what was about to come…

Sakura could feel that whatever he needed to discuss, he didn't want to. Which meant whatever it was, it certainly wasn't good news. She touched his hand and said "Naruto…I need to know."

Naruto sighed. "They saw it..."

It took a second for that to register in Sakura's mind. But when it did…well, Sakura didn't know how to react. By all means, she should have seen it coming! "So…what now?" Sakura knew that in times of war, most ninja deemed traitors were executed, since investigative teams could not be spared and Konoha would be under martial law.

It took a while for Naruto to respond, and looked away as he gave his answer. "You'll have to go through a court martial; officially, the war is over, so now they have to give you a chance. From what Ba-chan told me, though…the end won't be pretty either way." Naruto turned to her and cupped her chin. "But rest assured; everyone is doing everything they can to help you. I promise, after this is over, you'll never have to set foot in a jail cell again!"

The two said nothing for a while, but Sakura caught Naruto by surprise as she pulled him in for a deep kiss. This court martial was going to last for a while; she wanted to make sure that she would at least have a damn good kiss to help her remember when things got tough. Naruto didn't have a thing to say. Not by sound, anyway. He rolled his eyes, twice. That was another one of their quirky facial sign languages. "Say the Word", that's what it meant. He was offering her a chance for them to run together! Tempting as it was, Sakura had to nod her head no. After all, running would prove them right, wouldn't it? "Very well then." Naruto said regretfully.

Naruto walked to the door and knocked. "She's ready."

Two ANBU ninjas that Sakura was not familiar with came in. "Haruno Sakura, we are under orders to place you under arrest. Any attempt at resistance will result in your death."

Her wrists were placed behind her back and tied with thick twine wire that not even Tsunade would be able to break through. And just like that, she was taken away. When they left, Naruto finally lost it. He screamed and smashed every object he could pick up against the walls.

None of it did him any good.

Sakura had been down here many times before. But it was never like this; this time, SHE was the prisoner. There were only a few lights down the hallway to indicate which direction she should go. Any deviation from the path could lead her to being impaled by the spikes hidden in the darkness. Finally, she came to the check-in room.

She recognized the clerk at the front desk, and his eyes widened upon seeing her. "So, it's true." He got the paperwork ready. "I suppose we don't need to go through the usual check-in procedures. But I still need a blood seal." Sakura stuck out her finger, and with expert precision, the ANBU to her right sliced it just enough to draw blood. She pressed her finger against the paper, and the clerk took it. He then handed her a box. "Here's your prison uniform. You may change over there." He indicated a rice paper shoji door. "May Kami have mercy on you."

Sakura went over and changed. While it was dark in the room, it still unsettled Sakura that they could see the shadow of her figure. Finally, she changed into her dull gray sweater and pants. The material was tight, and it itched terribly. Konoha may have been a more humane ninja village, but it was still harsh towards its prisoners. And she would be seeing more of that very soon.

"Hold out your wrists." One of her escorts commanded her. Sakura did so, and the two placed seals on both. They were meant to block her chakra. "This way."

Soon, Sakura was lead to her cell. She entered, and flinched at the closing of her iron bar prison. The cell was dark, with only one window high up that cast light. The floors and walls were pure concrete, nothing comfortable at all. At least they were gracious enough to give her shoes. There was a small toilet, and like anyone Sakura was unnerved that upon using it she would have no privacy, hence her oversized shirt. And finally, her bed. A bed of straw, to be more precise. Sakura sighed, and plopped herself onto the bed. It was soft enough, but no one liked getting straw tangled in their hair and clothes. Sakura estimated that it would at least be a week before her trial would start, which meant she would have plenty of time to get used to this new cell.

"Something has to be wrong with me. I'm actually looking forward to paperwork now." Tsunade grumbled as she got to work. In her entire life as Hokage, Tsunade always dreaded paperwork. With the chaos of the war, many things had to be put on hold, and now Tsunade's nerves felt relaxed because of that. Was Kami that cruel to start a massive war in order to make her more productive? Tsunade was brought out of her thoughts when someone knocked on her door. "Enter."

In walked in none other then Naruto himself. Tsunade stood, and smiled. "I'm glad you came. I imagine you've got a lot on your mind, yes? Have a seat."

Naruto did so, and spoke. "Before you say anything, Ba-chan, I just want to say I'm sorry about the way I behaved these past couple of months to you and everyone else who knew about my father." Tsunade was surprised by Naruto's apology. "I put up a farce the whole time. But I care for you all. I really do. I was just so hurt, and a part of me told me I should place the blame on you. I started acting like we barely knew each other, but it only made things worse for me. And I nearly lost all of you because of that."

Tsunade smiled slightly. "I accept your apology, Naruto. And rest assured, Jiraya and Kakashi don't hold anything against you neither. In fact, we should apologize to you, if anything. What concerns me at the moment though is you and Sakura…did you read my letter?"

Naruto nodded. "A bit late, but I did…and well…we confessed to one another when she and Kakashi-sensei came to get me…" Naruto blushed a little bit. "And the main reason I've come was to understand how Sakura is being treated, what you're going to do to get her free and what I can do to help, and finally, what to do about her marriage."

Tsunade sighed. That was certainly a challenging Q&A "Well, while in prison she's certainly not going to be treated like a princess. There's really nothing I can do in that regard. The one thing I was able to do was get the guards to feed her food pills instead of the usual slop we feed our prisoners. So, at least she won't be losing any weight...and no direct harm will come to her either. As for her upcoming trial, rest assured, I anticipated this happening. I got Kakashi to collect what evidence he could. Jiraya was also on the scene, and assured me he got something that could help. As soon as Garaa fixes things up in Suna and the trial goes underway, he will testify in her defense. As for you…I'm sorry, but I'm afraid all you'll be able to do is give your testimony."

Naruto groaned in disappointment, and asked "You said that even if she was found not guilty, the outcome still wouldn't be good, correct?"

"That's right. Both the Shinobi and Civilian councils will act as the jury. While it will be the Shinobi council that determines whether she will be found guilty or not, the civilian council if opposed the to the shinobis' verdict can set certain terms. The problem is that the civilian council does not understand jutsus and what is possible the same way we do. And there's another thing that will make the civilian council an even bigger problem. I assume you've figured out how the council found out, right?" Naruto nodded; it was best not to say this out loud. "No doubt he will influence the civ council anyway he can, and he has some strong supporters in both to make this difficult for us." Naruto sighed. "The trial will also have to be delayed until Hyuuga Hiashi returns. He didn't have to, but because Neji had been forced to retire, he fought in his stead. He'll be informed of the situation, and while he is known for making neutral judgments, he has grown fond of you and every one associated with Neji. Whatever his decision, rest assured that it will not be because of any prejudice towards you." A moment of silence followed. Naruto was especially going to hate this part.

"Now, regarding her marriage…legally, there's nothing I can do." Naruto clenched his fists. "The only way really is for her father or the other party to cancel the marriage. If this gets out, that could happen. But I'm not counting on that."

"So…"

"…so, I may have to pay a visit to the family of the groom-to be. It shouldn't be hard; once they realize Sakura is as strong as I am, they should call it off. Nobility likes submissive women, and Sakura is anything but."

That certainly gave Naruto some hope. Didn't really do much to alleviate his mood, though. "Thanks for your time Ba-chan. And I apologize once more. I won't keep you from your work anymore."

As he turned to leave, Tsunade said "By the way, Jiraya would like to talk to you. When you have the time, go see him. He said it's important."

Naruto nodded in acknowledgement. "I have to take care of a few things first."

First, Naruto formally apologized to Kakashi. He said pretty much the same thing as Tsunade.

He then visited Iori and Yuji, just to make sure they were alright. Sine he traveled with him, Naruto figured Shiguri could wait. Naruto was surprised to see Yuji with her. When she told him her story, Naruto nearly threw a fit when he realized that she too was going to be put on trial. At least unlike Sakura, she was simply placed under house-arrest. Iori's predicament in a way pained him more than Sakura's, since in the case of the later he could provide useful information in the trial. He was very much relieved though when Iori mentioned Shikamaru was there with her; if anyone could prove her innocent, it was him. Still, if the courts failed either Sakura or Iori, he was prepared to do whatever it took to free both of them.

Yuji was probably the highlight of his day. Naruto learned of his adventures with the Ainu, and what he managed to accomplish with a badly damaged foot. Naruto couldn't be prouder.

Naruto had another stop to make, and Yuji was accompanying him at that moment. "So, you're going to visit the Ainu girl?" he asked his underdog student.

"Things were looking really bad for her; Hokage-sama said that if she had arrived at the hospital a second too late, she could've died." Yuji looked towards the hospital. "She's alive, but unconscious. They don't know when she'll wake up."

Naruto was about to comfort him, but then something occurred to him. "Listen…it's none of my business, but what does Iori think about this?"

Yuji gave him a quizzical look, which then turned bright red, signaling his realization. "Uh…well…to be honest, I haven't told Iori! But I don't think of her that way! I mean, I don't think of HYOUIKE that way!!"

Naruto chuckled, giving him a pat on the back. "It's okay, it's okay. I just didn't want Iori's feelings to be crushed."

"You mean-"

"Sorry, I didn't mean it like that! I just wanted to make sure that IF there is anything between you two, she wouldn't get the wrong idea." Naruto chuckled "Well, I guess the same should go for me to, and Sakura-chan actually might have a right to get jealous."

"You mean…you've been ch-"

Quickly, Naruto clamped his hand over Yuji's mouth. "NO!!" Naruto quieted down when he saw that people were staring at him. "Uh, what I mean is…I'm visiting someone who's had feelings for me for a long time, even longer than Sakura has."

Yuji seemed to understand. "So…you're going to reject her?"

Naruto grimaced. "Yes. The thing is…I understand what it feels like to love someone but not be loved back. I don't want to put her in such a position…but I have to. It wouldn't be right otherwise."

Yuji was beginning to get the drift. "You mean…Sakura…"

"It wasn't her fault. It's just…" Naruto sighed. "Okay. It was difficult, but I didn't care. So long as she was happy, that was all that mattered to me. Thankfully, as time went on, I just found myself getting happier and happier."

Yuji then spoke up. "If that was the way you felt about Sakura-nechan back then, it might be the same case with this other girl. Listen, I admit that I'm not even a novice on this subject, but if I were you, I would just tell her there's nothing wrong with her. You just loved somebody else. I mean, the one you love has more to do with how the two of you feel around each other and get to know one another, as opposed to there being something wrong with everyone else in the sea, right?"

Naruto thought about it. "Yeah…that makes sense, I guess…"

Finally, the two reached the hospital. "I guess we've got different destinations." Naruto said. "I'll see you outside, Yuji."

"Sure thing, sensei!"

Hinata sighed as she looked out the window. It was over, the war was over. Although she wasn't the best ninja in Konoha, she was happy that she could help them in their ultimate battle. However, even though she gave up on ever having Naruto long before the war started, it still hurt. She believed she understood what Naruto must have gone through emotionally when he attempted to rescue Sasuke. The difference here was that she actually succeeded, and in a way, it did alleviate her mood a bit. At least she was able to communicate to Naruto how much he meant to her, at least subtly. But this time, he would not choose her like Sakura did Naruto.

"Hiashi-sama will be very proud of you, Hinata." Hinata turned to face Neji, who was sitting by her side. "You rescued Sakura-san from herself. That is no small feat; even I would have a hard time with her."

Hinata smiled. "Thank you, Neji-nisan. It's…something else is bugging me."

Neji understood immediately. Everyone could tell what she thought about Naruto; even Sakura noticed. "Hinata-sama…"

"I know. I'm not delusional at all. But so long as he's happy, I'm happy." The Hyuuga cousins were interrupted by a knock on the door. "Come in." Hinata chimed.

The door opened, revealing Naruto. As if that wasn't enough to send Hinata's spirit sky high, she noticed the flowers in his hand. She had to mentally slap herself. "Well of course they're not romantic!" "N-Naruto-kun, thank you for coming to see me!"

Naruto smiled and replied "Of course." He walked towards them, greeting Neji. "Good to see you again, Neji. How've you been?"

Neji sighed as he closed his book. "I've been better. I apologize for being of no use to you all in these recent battles."

"It's not your fault at all. You didn't have to do what you did back for me at Monsoon Country. I appreciate it, nonetheless, but I feel terrible for having to put you through that. I should've have fought Kenji from the start." Naruto then looked at Hinata, clearly dreading what he was about to say. "Here goes." He thought to himself. "Listen, Neji. Could you step outside the room for a few minutes? I need to talk with Hinata alone."

Neji eyes widened in realization. A part of him wanted to stay and protect Hinata from what was about to come. But he knew that she needed to hear this, for better or for worse. "Very well." Naruto could detect a hint of a threat in his voice.

"I REALLY better not screw this up." When Neji left, Naruto placed the flowers on Hinata's stand. "How are you feeling, Hinata?" Naruto took note that she was covered in casts and bandages.

"I'm getting better. The Hokage doesn't have time and chakra to spare for everyone, but she sped things along for me. The bones in my body have mostly healed, and she says with some bed rest I should be out of here by the end of the week."

"I'm glad. I was worried about you going on your own to fight Sakura-chan. Not even I'm that brave!" Naruto chuckled a bit, but stopped when he noticed Hinata turning away and frowning. "Shit, that sure didn't go well!" Naruto frantically thought of something to lighten the mood, but if jokes made it worse…anything else "happy" he could think of was most likely unable to do any good. "I guess…I guess the honest truth is all I can tell her…well, here goes…"

Naruto took a deep breath, and spoke. "Hinata…I need to talk to you about something important."

Hinata turned her attention to Naruto. A part of her told her that Naruto figured out she liked him, and she did not want to hear him say it. It was pointless, and would only serve to embarrass her further. "Go on."

Naruto could feel the unease. "Crap." "Hinata…back when we started the rescue operation, you said to me that you would save Sakura-chan, and made it your promise of a lifetime." Hinata nodded, avoiding eye contact. "When you said that, I figured out…your feelings." Hinata gulped, and tightened her grip on the cover sheets. Then, Naruto touched Hinata's hands. "Please don't be afraid, Hinata! I'm…I'm really flattered and humbled that you thought so highly of me for all these years! And I really feel like a jerk for not even noticing! I know what it's like…"

Hinata finally turned around and looked at him. "Maybe, this talk isn't going to be as bad as I thought…" "It's okay, Naruto-kun. It's my fault, partially; I barely even let you know I existed. You, on the other hand, were able to work up the courage and get the attention of the one you loved, for better or worse." Naruto gave a small chuckle, remembering the times Sakura kicked his ass. "Besides…I know I'm not worth much…"

Naruto almost shouted "Don't you dare say that!" Hinata looked at him in shock. "Hinata…there is absolutely nothing wrong with you. You're smart, strong, and beautiful. You have a lot of qualities anyone could like. I can't love you not because of some minor flaw you have. The reason I can't love you…is simply because I'm in love with Sakura-chan."

Hinata's lips slowly curved into a smile. "Thank you, Naruto-kun. I know I could never take such a special place in your heart. But would it okay if…" Hinata began stuttering again. "…if we can still be friends? And with Sakura, too."

Naruto gave her genuine smile. "I'd like that." Naruto had a feeling he knew what Hinata wanted. He leaned down, and received a kiss to his forehead.

"What you and Sakura-san share is very special. You better take good care of it." Hinata said, giving him a beautiful but non-romantic smile.

Naruto was surprised at the hinted threat in her words, but was undeterred; of course he would do everything he could to keep Sakura and himself together. Naruto got up, and bowed. "You take care of yourself. And don't worry about Sakura-chan; she'll be fine." The jonin turned around and wiped some sweat off his brow. "Phew." Naruto walked out the room, only to nearly run into Hiashi Hyuuga himself! "Ahh! Did he hear me!?" "H-Hiashi-sama! How ya doing!?"

Naruto never interacted much with Hiashi, and was one of the few ninja in the village Naruto did not think up a nick-name for and actually addressed politely. "I just returned from my mission in Earth Country, and I heard about everything from Hokage-sama."

"Oh…well…"

"I'm aware your teammate is in a rather compromising position, and since I'm back, I'd imagine that the trial will begin soon. I can't promise anything, but depending on what's presented, we'll see. But if you must know my opinion based on what I know now, I don't see how or why Haruno would betray Konoha."

Naruto quickly bowed and said "All I ask is to do what you think is right."

"On that, at least, you have my word."

Naruto excused himself, allowing Hiashi, Neji, and someone else, who did not have the Byakuugan, to enter the room.

"F-father…" Hinata was nervous that her father would become overprotective and call her an idiot for trying to fight Sakura head-on.

"I heard everything that happened, my daughter. I'm so sorry that none of us were around to help you…"

"Uh, well…" Hiashi's tone was genuinely concerned, unlike what Hinata expected.

"…but you have made me so very proud."

Hinata blushed at her father's praise. While Hiashi had become more caring and attentive to Hinata then he had in the past, he had pretty much given up on her being a strong ninja. For a long time, Hinata thought that she wouldn't care if she received praise from Hiashi, but just the opposite turned out to be true. "I guess this is how Naruto-kun felt back in the academy in a way." "Thank you." She said, barely above a whisper. That was when she noticed the stranger next to him. "Father, who is he?"

He was about the same age as the rest of the Rookie 9 of her generation. He had spiky brown hair, and a lithe but athletic build. He wore a green tunic with blue jeans. The pouches and vests on his clothes clued Hinata in that he was a ninja, but not from here, nor any hidden village in particular since he lacked a Hiate of any kind. But what really struck Hinata were his eyes. At a glance, they were cold, with a steely resolve. He was truly a warrior, that was for sure. But Hinata noticed something else. In those eyes, there was a hint of warmth, as well.

Hiashi looked at his company, and quickly said "Oh my. Forgive my manners. Hinata, this is Hane Hero. He was a ninja in one of the lesser villages surrounding earth country, but Iwagakure destroyed most of them when the last Tsuchikage came into power. He managed to survive, and has been fighting them since he was 10. During my mission into Earth Country, he has helped me tremendously, even saved my life at one point. Since he did not have a home to return to, I invited him to live in our compound, with the council's approval of course, until he figures out what he will do."

Hero moved forward slightly and bowed. "It's a pleasure, Hinata-sama."

Hinata blushed slightly, realizing how handsome this young man was. Noticing the stares Hiashi and Neji gave her, she quickly regained her composure and bowed her head the best she could. "Likewise."

Yuji sighed as he looked Hyouike's seemingly lifeless form. "Come on, Hyouike. That was a bad stabbing, but not THAT bad!" Nothing. "Right?" Still nothing. Yuji sighed and leaned back on the chair.

"I'm so sorry I couldn't protect you. I know you were trying to help…" Yuji scratched his head. "I'll be checking up on your people. I think one of them should be able to speak with Hokage-sama. I don't know what will happen, but I promise you and all your people will find a better place. Still…what you told me about the Nidaime…I have to find out for myself what happened. I need to hear both sides of the story. But I'll wait until you've woken up; wouldn't be fair, otherwise." Yuji sighed and patted Hyouike's head. "Well…I better get going now. Wake up soon, okay?"

Yuji was about to leave, but chuckled a bit. "Funny thing happened today. Sensei thought I was in love with you." Yuji chuckled a bit again. "I mean, everyone knows I like Iori. Granted, being with you would probably be better for my health. But…there's just something about her…." Yuji closed the door and left.

If he stayed longer, he would have noticed the Ainu girl's finger move…

Jiraya found himself in his apartment. It was high-class and expensive, but due to his constant espionage work, Jiraya rarely stopped by here. The place was almost completely bare, and Jiraya, ironically, hated coming home. But he had to speak with Naruto at the moment. Plus, inviting him to the local brothel would have probably hinted to Naruto he wasn't being serious, and he had to be for this.

Jiraya stirred out of his thoughts when something knocked on his door. "Ero-senin." An all too familiar voice called.

"Come in, it's unlocked."

Naruto walked in, looking…humbled. "How've you been?" the blonde asked.

Jiraya gave a small smile, not his usual cocky one. "Just kicking it while I waited for you. Come sit, these chairs are the best." He gestured.

When Naruto took his seat, he began "Ero-senin, I-"

Jiraya held up his hand. "Don't you dare apologize." For a second, Naruto looked at the floor, thinking now Jiraya was the one angry with him. "I'm the one who should apologize." Naruto looked up at him for a second. "You really did have every right to know. When I took you away for training at least. If not that, your father told us specifically to tell you when you turned 18." Jiraya paused for a moment to collect his thoughts. "We more or less chickened out at the last minute, for a number of reasons. Mainly, you were so happy, and we knew you wouldn't take the news well. With your promotion, your new team, your girlfriend…a part of us didn't want to ruin that for you." Jiraya took a good long look in his sake cup. "But that would still make us cowards nonetheless. Naruto…I'm sorry I kept the truth from you. Your father was like a son to me, and knowing that just makes me feel even worse about how I handled your situation. We used to get into all kinds of trouble together, and I had never felt so proud in my life when he became a legendary ninja and the Hokage. That is, until I met you."

Naruto smiled slightly. "He really was a great ninja, huh?"

"You couldn't begin to imagine the potential he had! He grasped everything in an instant, and the few things he did have difficulty with, he worked hard until he got it right. And he always believed in himself and others." Jiraya smiled fondly. "Those were the days…"

"I take it he was from a prestigious clan?" Naruto asked. He didn't care, but if his father was that talented, that would be the most logical explanation.

"Truthfully, I have no way of knowing." Naruto looked at him quizzically. "I found him in the woods, nearly starved to death. He wasn't from Konoha, and though we tried to trace his origins, we couldn't find out where he was from. He himself did not know; he apparently had a case of amnesia. So, we nursed him back to health, and since no one would take him in, he went straight to the ninja academy."

Naruto couldn't believe what he was hearing. "You were all alone, just like me?"

"Most of the instructors were worried that because he was already of standard genin age, he would graduate by the time he was 15 and looked down on. But within months, he showed all the basic jutsus with perfection, and the old man put him on my team, since we were one short. I felt bad that not only did this kid have no family, but no past either. So, I took him under my wing like he was my own."

Like father like son was the worst cliché in most modern literature, but it seemed that truth was indeed stranger than fiction.

That was when Jiraya's story took a darker turn. "…which leads me to something else. Something that MAY have to do with Akatsuki."

Naruto's interest piqued. "You don't mean…my father was working for Akatsuki?"

"NO!" Jiraya yelled. In his defense, anyone would deny such a thing so loudly. "No, but I'm beginning to believe he had some sort of connection. Remember the incident from before the chunin finals?"

"You mean when Itachi and Kakuzu's bodies were stolen?" Naruto asked.

"Correct. You were told the details about one of the dead guards, right?"

"Sakura-chan told me that. She said it was ALMOST as if they got hit by a Rasengan."

Jiraya confirmed it. "It was a different technique, but the use of rotating chakra and spatial composition was the same. Your father did not just create the Rasengan out of thin air. At least, that's what he told me. When he started it, he claimed he knew someone else who used it."

"Wait! If he had amnesia…" Naruto began.

"That's what I asked him. He said he really didn't remember, but he had that one memory of someone using a special technique. Because of that, we finally decided to have Inoichi and his mother check him out. They found something…sort of. They found a seal somewhere in his mind. While they couldn't determine its exact nature, they hypothesized it was created to block memories. Naturally, this lead to some complications among the councils. Danzo in particular, wanted him executed because of it." Naruto's teeth clenched in anger. He had a bad feeling where this story would be winding up next. "Even so, his supporters couldn't prove that the seal would bring anything harmful upon the village, and the Yamanakas had no way of removing it. The shinobi council even ordered a search for relatives, both for our security, and some sympathizers felt it was more imperative than ever to find his family and restore his memories. But in all the shinobi nations, we couldn't find anyone related to your old man. It was as if…he just fell out of the sky."

Naruto began to piece everything together. "So…you're thinking that my Dad was from the Soragakure that Itachi mentioned in his will? And that seal Ino's dad found was to prevent any information from being leaked? And Rasengan…"

"…was a by-product of some other jutsu, yes. But I have no way of proving it." Jiraya sighed as he looked away into the window. "Although, there is something else you should know as well…"

The sanin thought back to the Kyuubi's attack…

Jiraya gripped his bloodied arm as the Kyuubi finally made its way to the edge of the village. "NO!!!" The Kyuubi condensed a chakra ball, and swallowed it. Like dragon's breath, it shot its chakra across the village. Many ninja had fallen, desperately trying to protect their village. Not even two of the legendary sanin, nor the Yodaime Hokage, were enough to stop it. "It's over…"

"No. Not yet it's not."

Jiraya turned around to see Minato. He was still a bloody mess, and had virtually no chakra left. He tried to beat the Kyuubi with Gamabunta, but in the end the great toad could not give the Yodaime the edge he needed. Jiraya then noticed he was carrying something. "A scroll? No…that's…" His answer was confirmed when a high-pitched cry echoed across the forest. "Have you lost your mind, Minato!? Bringing him here…"

"Believe me. This is the last thing I wanted." Minato said, sounding like his heart had been broken.

Jiraya was momentarily speechless when he realized why Minato brought his only child from out of the evacuees. "Minato, he's your OWN SON!! What will Kushina think!?" Minato did not answer. "Minato…" Jiraya continued to press.

"…she agreed to this." The blond man finally answered.

Jiraya yelled "No, you're lying! She would never sell out her own son!! I can't believe it!!"

Minato sighed sadly. "Neither do I, but it's the truth. You can ask her about it later…"

"Minato, stop this! It doesn't have to be this way! If you must, let me! I can seal the Kyuubi within my own body and kill us both…"

"No. Not this one, Ero-senin. This Biju is different from the others. Only someone with my blood can seal it, and only someone young can contain it. Besides, all the Biju are immortal beings that can't be killed. You will not be able to offer up your life as a sacrifice to the death god, at least, not without something else to put the creature in..." The baby cried loudly, causing Minato to instinctively hold little Naruto tightly. Tears flowed down his scared face as he tried to comfort his son for what may be the only time he could. "I'm so sorry…"

Jiraya could finally see that Minato had not gone mad, but was simply at his limit. He couldn't bear to see Minato taken away from his son and lover, not when so much happiness was ahead in their future. "Someone else can-!"

"No. Any adult who attempts to be the container will die; their chakra coils will have matured and cannot sustain the Kyuubi's enormous chakra. Only an infant whose chakra coils are still developing can adapt to it." Minato looked at his still crying son. "Kushina was right. Whoever is cursed with the Kyuubi's burden will be shunned and thought of as a demon. It would be wrong…to choose someone other than our own son. As Hokage, I must put the needs of my people before my own, no matter what that means." Finally, he walked away.

Jiraya couldn't believe what he was hearing. "Minato you're not making any sense! What do you mean you're the only one who can do it!? Hiruzen and I know that same technique!!" Nothing. "Stop it!! You have a future!! Don't throw it away!! Minato!!"

"Do me a favor, would you, old pervert?" Minato asked. Jiraya stopped, and couldn't bring himself to continue. Even if he were to attempt to hold Minato down, he was just as bad in shape as Minato was. "Let the old man know what I'm going to do, and tell him I want my son to be looked upon as a hero. Let the councils know that I do not wish for the next generation to know the Kyuubi still lives among them. I know that probably won't work, but it's better than assuming everything will just be alright." With that, Minato summoned a lesser toad. The coughed up blood that landed on the grass was a sign of how far he was pushing himself. "Either you will need to be Hokage now, or the old man will have to come out of retirement. I'd very much appreciate it if Orochimaru wasn't Hokage, but if the both of you feel it's the right move, I'll trust your judgment. If you choose to force the old man out of retirement…tell him I'm sorry for the trouble." Then Minato flashed him a smirk. A sad one, but a smirk nonetheless. "And thank you for everything…master…"

That was the last Jiraya would see of his disciple, as he bounded off for a final confrontation with the Kyuubi…

Naruto just sat there in silence for the longest time. Jiraya anxiously awaited his response. "Naruto?"

Naruto snapped out of it, realizing he spaced out. "Sorry, Ero-senin. It's…it's just so much to take in!!"

"I understand." Truthfully, he would feel the same had someone told him a similar story.

Naruto tapped his fingers anxiously. "You mentioned another person. Someone named…Kushina. She sounded like a very important person to my dad."

Jiraya answered "Uzumaki Kushina is your mother." Naruto's eyes widened in disbelief, his mind drifting off again.

This time, Jiraya was more patient with him, as well as more confident with what he was telling him. After what seemed to be forever, Naruto finally recovered enough from his shock to speak. "That explains why I don't have my father's last name. They never married, did they?" he asked in a subdued voice.

Jiraya, for once throughout their conversation, smirked. "No. But they loved one another very much. In fact…the way their romance budded reminds me very much of how your relationship with Sakura occurred."

"REALLY!?" Naruto yelled.

"Yeah. With the gender roles reversed." Naruto blinked in confusion. Jiraya sighed, frustrated that as far as he's come, there were some simple things Naruto still couldn't grasp. "Remember when you were younger, you had a crush on Sakura but she couldn't stand you?"

"Uh-huh."

"Back then, your mother had the crush on Minato, but he couldn't stand her. And I have to admit, at least by juvenile standards, she wasn't the prettiest girl. Not only that, but she was loud, boastful, claimed she was going to be better than everyone, and just got on everyone's nerves. I guess that's to be expected, given that she was without a family…"

"WHAT!?" Naruto yelled in disbelief, then reduced his voice to a whisper as his mind processed it. "You mean…they…they were both alone in the world?"

Jiraya answered "Pretty much. Minato never had any memory of a family. Kushina was different though; arguably more tragic. You see, she was from a different village, in Whirlpool Country. In fact, she was descended from the founder of Whirlpool Country, and to many considered to be a princess. She sure didn't act the part though. Anyway, she lost both her parents and her entire village to Mist. It was during the 2nd Great Shinobi War, when all the major ninja countries became military power houses and began to try to cut down on the competition. Those…those were hard times on all of us." Jiraya sighed.

Naruto started fidgeting; Jiraya could tell anymore would be too much. "I have so many questions…"

Jiraya then pulled out a scroll. "I know. It's a lot for one night, and you look as though you had enough. I suggest you go home and let it all settle in your mind. We'll talk more about it another time. But before you go, I have something for you." Jiraya pulled a tape out of the scroll, and handed it to Naruto. "Your mother wanted me to give this to you if something happened to her…which apparently something did."

Naruto hesitantly took the tape. "You mean…she was killed?"

Jiraya almost hesitated to answer; he himself was not prepared to tell Naruto. "I don't know. She was just…gone." Jiraya could easily sense the panic in Naruto's eyes. Anyone in his position would think that they were abandoned. "Naruto, your mother loved you so much. Whatever happened to her, she did not abandon you. She never would. You'll see for yourself in here. Just get some rest. You don't have to watch the tape now, but I want you to have it. I think it's past time you did."

Naruto got up, and then did something most unusual: he bowed. "Sorry, and thank you. I…I just need sometime to think."

Jiraya waved goodbye as Naruto took off, and reclined into his chair. "Kushina…just what DID happen to you?"

Naruto just stared at the tape for the longest time. He wanted so badly to find out what was on it, like what did his mother looked like. What was she going to tell him? But what stopped him was that he was also afraid of what he might see. Even if it turned out that she was the loving mother he wanted so desperately to remember, he would still break down in anguish. He just knew it. It would remind him of something he lost and couldn't even remember having. He admitted to himself that some of his pride as an adult told him not to seek comfort and have someone watch it with him. But there was one exception: Sakura. He knew Sakura would be there if he couldn't take it, and would never think any less of him. As absurd as it was, or should be, he felt she was the only one he could rely on. But it had to wait; she was in prison, following a trial. Who knew how long it would take? "Wait for me, mom. There's someone very special I want you to meet…before I finally get to meet you." Naruto set the tape in the case below the TV, which only had a few movies he really enjoyed. With that, Naruto went to bed, his head swimming with everything he was just told about his parents.

Days had passed. At least, that's what it felt like to Sakura. She couldn't tell. She heard that ninja cells were supposed to drive people mad to a point, but experiencing it first-hand was something else. In addition to not being aware of time, she had nothing to do. There was nothing in her cell for her to play with, the guards would not give her books (not that she could read them very well anyway, given the limited amount of light), and there was not enough space or any equipment to do her normal workouts, another safe-guard to ensure that if prisoners were released or escaped, they wouldn't be stronger than before. Even if she could find something in the way of exercise, it wouldn't be as effective with her chakra sealed off. The only other activity she could think of was not something she wanted to share with the guards. The vivid memory of her kiss with Naruto made it worse, how she wanted to do more than simply kissing him. "Well, I bet Danzo recommended these guards, and are a part of root. Knowing Sai, they probably have the libido of a rock…"Sakura mentally slapped herself. As true as that might be, she was NOT going to give them a show. Even worse was the fact that she was only fed food pills. The guards said it was better than prison food, but as true as it may be, terrible food would give her tongue and stomach some kind of sensation. "Kami, I'm going mad already." She muttered.

Just then, she heard footsteps. One of the ANBU soldiers was coming in and looked into her cell. He had a face on his mask, but Sakura had a feeling she knew who it was. "Hokage-sama ordered me to send you this message: 'Your trial will begin tomorrow.'"

Sakura smiled slightly. "Thank you…Sai." The guard did not respond, but then again, that was their sometimes teammate's nature. He turned and left. Sakura could see that the sun was beginning to set from her window. "Must be about six'o clock…"

Naruto rubbed the washcloth on his face. It was going to be a long day, and he needed to be alert. First was Sakura's trial, and he heard today's session was going to be a long one. Iori's would start after Sakura's trial finished. He was never a particularly good detective, and his eyewitness account for Sakura wasn't that powerful, plus many would think he was lying to protect them. Never before had he felt so useless…

Naruto was brought out of his musings when he heard a knock on his door. "Naruto! You ready?"

It was Kakashi! "Almost! Give me a minute!" Naruto made the final adjustments on his suit and tie and walked towards the door. Normally, he hated the formal clothes and the way they constrained him. But today and many other days to come, he could not afford any screw-ups. He opened the door, and greeted his sensei.

Like Naruto, he was also dressed up in a more formal, business-like suit. However…"Kakashi-sensei, take off the mask. Please…" the jinchuriki implored him, covering his own face with his palm.

Kakashi only smiled beneath the mask. "Uh, sorry…but no. The councils a long time ago decreed so long as I wished, the mask can stay on. That includes occasions like this."

Naruto grumbled. "Fine. Just don't get us kicked out."

The two made their way down the street to the courthouse. "It's been crazy ever since Sasuke left, hasn't it?" Kakashi asked. Naruto silently nodded in agreement. "Before I knew it, all of you had grown up so fast. I spent most of my time on the sidelines, watching you and Sakura do your own thing." Kakashi sighed as he remembered his own past. "After your elemental training, everything seemed to be smooth-sailing for you, and whatever you still had to learn, Jiraya took care of that. I was thinking of giving Sakura some attention, figuring she still needed some work on genjutsu. But by the time I asked her, she informed me Kurenai was already giving her instructions."

Naruto got curious about what he was getting at. Was Kakashi-sensei feeling…sad? Perhaps even jealous? Then Kakashi seemed to answer his thoughts. "Your father…he was a hundred times the sensei I ever was. While he firmly believed in his students learning independently, he always checked in with each of us to monitor our progress. He always guided us in terms of which ninjutsu skills to specialize in, once he found our affinities. Even during actual battles, in the 2nd Shinobi War…" Kakashi hated to think about that part. How Obito died for both Rin and him. "…he treated each battle like a lesson. Every time he sent us out on our own, it was like a test. But he would only do so if he believed in us, and he always made sure that he was never far behind in case something went wrong."

Naruto was now listening to him with keen interest. "Kakashi-sensei…you weren't that…"

"Naruto…when I was 8 years old, my father committed suicide. His teammates were in danger, and he abandoned a mission to save them. But because of that, many other Konoha ninja were killed in battle. He was shamed and ostracized, even by those he saved. One day, I came back home from the academy…and found him in the living room dead, his hands still clenching the knife he used to kill himself."

Naruto stopped walking, unable to even breathe. He suspected from time to time Kakashi had a tragic past, but he never imagined anything like this!

"After that day, in many ways, I became like Danzo, following the rules of the ninja world to an absolute. Minato-sensei, to a degree, brought me out of my shell. But I think my teammate, Obito, was the one who really got me going into letting go of the past." Naruto listened even more intently. "He was a lot like you, Naruto. Goofy, not very talented despite being an Uchiha, and LOUD. But, whenever I was around him, I felt…comfortable. Even happy. Like I could just let go of all my problems…of course, I still kind of acted like an ass towards him and Rin."

Naruto chuckled. "Ah, so you were kind of like teme back then."

Kakashi chuckled nervously. "Naruto, I think that comparison carries a different tone these days, if you know what I mean." Both had become aware of Sasuke's now criminal status, and it was uncomfortable for both of them. "But it's true." He confirmed.

Kakashi continued. "While we were on a mission in Earth Country, the kunoichi on our team, Rin, was kidnapped. We were supposed to destroy a bridge that aided the enemy. Obito insisted we go after Rin, and I insisted we put the mission first. We had an argument, and eventually in our frustrations, went our separate ways. But Obito, having learned about my father, told me this: 'Those who break the rules are trash, but those who abandon their friends are lower than trash.'" Naruto's eyes widened as he heard the same line Kakashi told his team when he was giving them the bell test. "Having learned about my father from Minato-sensei, he told me that my father was a true hero. I wanted to go forward without him, but I couldn't. Finally, I realized I had to be there for them. I wanted to. I came to their rescue as they were about to get killed, and rescued Rin. However, I was injured." Kakashi pointed to his concealed Sharingan. "Lost my eye in that fight. Without warning, an avalanche came down, and Obito shoved us out of the way. He was crushed, but still alive…barely. He then requested…"

"…for his sharingan to be implanted into your eye-socket, right?"

Kakashi was momentarily shocked by Naruto's perception. "Yes. After that he ordered me to take Rin and go. He loved her, and trusted me to take care of her. With his Sharingan, I was able to help her escape. And, in a way, I allowed him to see the world through my eyes, like we were one. Back then…and to this day. I realized that day that I had lost a true friend. Though it had been hard on your father as well, he pulled himself, me, and Rin together. We still managed to be a team…"

Naruto could easily sense the unease. "What happened? What DID tear you apart?" Kakashi still didn't answer. Then Naruto looked up at the Kage Mountain, looking at his father's face and it clicked. "Oh."

Kakashi nodded in conformation. "Once he was gone…everything seemed to fall apart." Naruto and Kakashi finally neared the judicial hall. "We can talk more about your father later, Naruto. I think it's best you come into this with a clear head, for Sakura's sake."

Due to Tsunade's close relation to Sakura, the councils would not allow her to be the judge as. Homura would be the judge instead to ensure neutrality. So, she quietly sat in the benches along with the rest Sakura's close friends. Tsunade noticed that Sakura's mother was in the benches, but her father was missing. Tsunade was sure that he had returned…she could only imagine why he didn't show up. Getting her mind back to the present, Jiraya sat next to her. Both suspected Danzo was working with Akatsuki trying to use Sakura against them…and predicted he would do everything he could to prevent her from being found not guilty.

"You've got it?" Tsunade whispered.

"Yeah. Hard to say how big an impact it would be, but I promise you it will put a dent in the prosecution's case. Everything else is beyond my control." Tsunade never questioned what that was. Jiraya could disappear and go anywhere he wanted; Tsunade had to stay within the Hokage tower, making the chances of espionage greater. Therefore, it was best that she herself did not know what he had up his sleeves. Then, the two sanin noticed Kakashi and Naruto walk over to them and take their seats. "You're all here." Tsunade acknowledged with a smile.

"We're waiting for a couple more." Naruto mentioned.

Then, Tsunade noticed Yuji making his way towards the same bench. "Miyamoto. I take it your foot is well?" Tsunade asked.

"Yes, much better, Hokage-sama. Thank you again." Then Shiguri sat next to him. While he did not have any close relations to Sakura, he wanted to be there for someone close to his best friend and his sensei. As well as one other thing…

"Shiguri, what happened?" Naruto asked. Shiguri didn't wear any sunglasses, and though he applied make up to it, he could see hints of a black eye.

Shiguri didn't bother trying to deny it. "Well…let's just say gramps is not thrilled about me siding with you guys."

Naruto winced. Before the trial could start, he went over to Shiguri. "Hey…if it's alright with you, would you like to stay at my place? I've got a bed that I can pull out of the couch…"

Shiguri gave him a small smile. "Thanks, but that won't be necessary. I'm already staying with Yuji." Shiguri sighed and looked towards the court. "I've a feeling I'm not coming back home."

The group was interrupted as another voice chimed in. "Well, since this seems to be the seat for Sakura's closest friends, would we mind if we joined you?"

Naruto looked up to see Ino and Hinata, both dressed in conservative but form-fitting dresses. "Ino! Hinata! Thanks for showing up!" The two girls took their seats. "So, if you don't mind me asking, do you two have anything that may help?"

Ino sighed regretfully "No. Not me, anyway. That Danzo asshole outright forbade it, saying because we were best friends I would simply lie if I went into her mind. Thankfully, both councils agreed my dad should be part of the case. Danzo tried to block that to, but everyone is fond of him and knows he will be impartial to the ordeal. In practice, if not in heart."

It was Hinata's turn to speak. "I will be called as a witness eventually. Since I was involved in the operation, I have to be." Hinata turned her head towards Naruto. "And trust me, I will defend her. It would be odd to have a person nearly broken in two to defend the one who did that to her, right?" Naruto could only smile back. Even if this one day would turn out badly, he had a good feeling about the trial at the end.

"'Scuse us." Naruto noted that other members his generation of Konoha 11 had shown up. Since Naruto's bench was already full, they took seats wherever they could find them. It touched him to know that they all came for her.

Just then, Homura took the stage as judge and hit the gavel. "Everyone, please be seated." Everyone quieted down. "We will now begin the court martial of Haruno Sakura." With that announcement, ANBU guards came in, escorting Sakura in chains.

Naruto's heart sank as he looked at her. She looked tired, tired in the way only a ninja jail could make one. He could see how her eyes were very downcast. Then, she walked across from Naruto and saw him. She gave him a small but strong smile, which Naruto returned. "She hasn't given up yet. Neither should I." Everyone could see how she silently appreciated everyone being there.

Finally, it began. Sakura, of course, pleaded not guilty and gave her account of her predicament.

"So, you had no control over your actions?" Danzo asked, playing the part of the indifferent prosecutor.

Sakura could see he was anything but. "That's correct. It was like my mind and body was severed, with someone else pulling the strings. It was…surreal."

Danzo pulled out the whopper right there." Any reason we should believe you? Your teammate, Uchiha Sasuke, betrayed Konoha; I see no reason why you wouldn't either."

Sakura winced at the implicit use of Sasuke. "I have served Konoha faithfully for more than half a decade. Not only in the battlefield, but in medicine as well. Hokage-sama was the one who trained me, and I share her ideals. My best friends are still here with me in Konoha. I have no motive or desire to turn against Konoha. I could not even dare think of it under my free will."

Danzo said nothing, but turned and said "You are dismissed. I now call upon my first witness." The witnesses were the civilians who were present at the time. None if it went down as well as Danzo had hoped. Most of them never seen their abductors beyond the known Akatsuki members. Those who had seen Sakura could not confirm it for sure; the main reason was because while they caught a flash of pink hair, the eyes looked gray. One of Sakura's most striking features had always been her green eyes. The possibility of contacts being used were brought up, but Danzo knew that logically speaking, if Sakura was trying to disguise herself, Sakura would have used a lot more than contacts.

Then, he showed the tape. That was the moment Team 7 dreaded; while many had assured her and Tsunade they had a decent defense, even they had to admit that defending someone against taped evidence was a damn hard thing to do. The court room fell silent as they watched it. Naruto finally understood what everyone was telling him about the ultimate outcome. "Even if we can convince the councils themselves it wasn't her fault…the village will still think that she betrayed them…"

"…the video tape does not lie. I rest my case." Sakura's head hung low, and Naruto couldn't do anything for her.

Homura then announced "We will now have recess. We will adjourn in one hour, and now listen to the defense." With that, everyone left. Except for the 2 remaining members of Team 7, Naruto's two students, the two Sanin and the Konoha 11.

Naruto walked up to approach her, only to have the ANBU guards draw their swords. "We are aware of your relationship with the defendant; however, we are under orders to treat her as a dangerous criminal. Any contact is strictly forbidden. I'm sorry."

Naruto growled, but shrugged it off. "You alright, Sakura-chan?"

Sakura turned to face him, looking utterly defeated. "No. I'm not…" Naruto could tell she was about to cry. Naruto's face scowled, and looked straight at one of the two guards. The two looked at him, then her, then each other.

Finally, one of the guards sheathed his sword and sighed. "Fine. But don't tell anyone we allowed it."

"Bi!"

"Just this once, Ha, I'd like to have a heart. Wouldn't you?" His companion grumbled, and though skeptical, withdrew his sword. They would still observe of course.

Finally, Sakura clung onto Naruto and cried. She didn't let it all out, but it helped. "I'm scared…"

"…so am I…" Naruto assured her. After 5 minutes, she forced herself to stop crying. "Sakura-chan, let it all out…"

"I appreciate the offer, but I can't go looking like a wreck now. I just needed that little bit…"

Naruto sighed. Sakura could be as stubborn as he was, but she had a point; this was not the time to let their emotions get the better of them. "Listen…" Naruto pulled out a scroll, and revealed a bento sushi box. "I know it's not much, but…"

"OH NARUTO, THANK YOU!!" Sakura's shriek nearly gave Naruto a heart attack, and didn't notice the quick peck from Sakura.

"Y-you're welcome, I…" Naruto had to prevent his mouth from gaping in disbelief as he saw Sakura eat everything.

Still, it didn't go noticed by the pink-haired kunoichi. "What?" Her eyes then widened in realization. "AHHH!! How could I have been so stupid!?" "I'm so sorry Naruto!! I-It's just that back in prison I was fed nothing but food pills, and I just missed having real food in my stomach!!"

Naruto waved his hand. "Don't worry about it, please! I'm just glad you enjoyed it."

The two shared a brief laugh. Then, Sakura turned her attention to everyone else there. "Ino!" I-"

Ino held up her hand. "Don't apologize; you weren't yourself. I'm just glad you're okay!" She then looked between her and Naruto, and smiled devilishly. "So, I take it the two of you have made up…"

Sakura just went "Uh, yeah…"

"So, tell me! I want all the juicy details…" Naruto and Sakura didn't like the smile, the way she rubbed her hands and the look in her eyes.

"For the love of kami, Ino-pig!! We didn't have time for anything!"

Ino had to lean on her knees has she laughed. "I'm just messing with you! I'm just glad all is well; I was worried that you prison might…change you." Ino had to stifle another laugh.

Sakura growled as a vein popped in her head, embarrassed by the implication. "For your information Ino-pig, I saw no one else." Her scowl then turned into a devious smile. "I wonder; perhaps you were concerned because YOU secretly…"

Ino clamped her hand over Sakura's mouth. "Geez, forehead, don't give that sanin pervert any ideas!!"

A vein on Jiraya's forehead popped, while Tsunade just chuckled. "Don't worry; I'm sure he's thought of something like that already."

This caused everyone, even the two ANBU guards, to burst out laughing at his expense "Why me…" the old hermit cried.

The conversation turned more serious as Sakura addressed Hinata. Naruto cringed at the tears starting to form in her eyes. "Hinata. I…"

"Please stop blaming yourself, Sakura-san. You were in trouble, and I did what I had to help." Hinata chuckled a little bit. "To be fair, I'd much rather not go through that again, thank you very much. But seeing you free in mind and body is more than enough. My job's not done yet; I have to step up during the defense for you."

Sakura quickly pulled Hinata into a hug, catching her by surprise. "Thank you, thank you so much! I promise, I'll make it up to you!!"

Hinata's old self came back for a minute. "S-sure. What a-are friends for?"

Sakura relinquished her hold on Hinata and got a better hold on herself. Then, she turned to her own part-time student. "Yuji…I heard from Shishou you were hurt badly in the last battle. How-"

"No, not the last battle! That motherfucker tortured me for days before I even got there!!" the juvenile shouted. Everyone was stunned by the normally shy and humble kid's outburst. Realizing the awkward situation, Yuji corrected himself." I mean, yeah, but I'm all better now!"

Naruto interrupted him shouting "We should have seen him, Sakura-chan! My team was in a bad situation, and with a mangled foot, he turned it around and even managed to kill his opponent!" Naruto shut himself up when he remembered how sensitive Yuji was about killing. "Yuji, I-"

Yuji held up his hand, silencing his sensei. "It's alright. True, I don't like it, but I signed up to be a ninja. It comes with the territory, and I just have to live with it. I'm not going to kill unless I have to, but if I do…I'm prepared."

Sakura smiled slightly, and rubbed his head. "I think our little Yuji has grown up."

Yuji's face blushed bright red, and nearly yelled "Hey, cut it out! And who said you could rub my head!"

"I'm sorry, but who called me Sakura-nechan before we had to head out to the front?" Yuji's face turned an even darker shade of red.

Shiguri laughed and elbowed his friend. "You dodged a kunai there! I was just about to sing the kissing in a tree song for you two!"

That earned him a good whack from everyone around him. "I'd prefer it if you didn't put that image in our head, please!" Sakura yelled.

Shiguri rubbed his head, and then got serious. He bowed and said "Sakura-sensei. I wanted to tell you, I am so, so sorry for what my grandfather is doing! I don't agree with what he's doing, I know it's wrong!"

Sakura was taken back by his statement, but smiled slightly. "Shiguri, you don't have to-

"Yes, I do! He's not just prosecuting you, or enforcing his beliefs! He's really trying his hardest to throw you in prison!"

Naruto sighed. "We already know that."

"What!? I know my grandfather is not exactly an angel, but why-"

"I'll explain it to you later. Right now, we need to get ready for our part of the story." Naruto ended the conversation right there.

Finally, the defense came. Shikaku would act in Sakura's defense. Danzo knew he was a sharp one, but he didn't realize the extent of what everyone did to help Sakura, weakening his case. While he was having doubts he could throw Sakura in jail, he was sure it would be difficult enough to dissuade the councils' initial impressions of the tape. "Still, in the long run, I can work whatever results I get to my advantage."

First came the testimony of many of her peers; most of them didn't have anything significant to contribute.

Naruto's testimony was the last one; while he imagined the Shinobi council would be swayed by his account, for the civilian council which did not know much about Akatsuki, that wouldn't be enough.

"So, the goal of the Akatsuki is to extract Biju…correct?" One of the councilors from the civilian council inquired Naruto.

"Correct."

"And you have the Kyuubi."

Naruto stayed silence for a moment, knowing the stigma that came with it. "Yes."

"Then why would you protect her?"

"Because, as I said, she was being controlled by the group in order to get to me!" the jinchuriki angrily retorted.

"It sounds more to me that you're protecting a traitor, despite your best interests…much like you did with…"

Shikaku interrupted the council member. "I recommend you keep your opinions to yourself until we ask for your verdict, or we can expel you from the trial!" He then turned his attention back to Naruto. "You claim it was the piercings on her face that controlled her?"

"Yes."

"And what happened after they were removed?"

"She was more or less back to normal."

"And did she help you take out the remaining 2 Akatsuki?"

"She couldn't. A fight with Hyuuga Hinata sealed her chakra, and on top of that, she was exhausted." Naruto went on to tell them about how Jiraya unsealed his stomach, Tobi's aid, and how it ended.

"Very well. You are dismissed."

Homura then shouted "We will resume tomorrow at 8 am!" With the sound of the gavel, the court split.

Naruto could only watch helplessly as Sakura was taken away. But, as usual, he did what he could to keep her spirits up. "Hey! I'll bring some Umeboshi next time!!" The small smile from Sakura did not go unnoticed.

Naruto, despite his demeanor at the end of the trial, wasn't in high spirits. How could he be? Though he didn't believe it would do the trick today, he decided to venture to Ichiraku for a few bowls of ramen. As he walked up, he took a seat. "Some pork ramen, please." He said towards the kitchen, not looking up.

"Sure thing, Naruto-kun!" That wasn't Teuchi…

Naruto perked up when he realized Ayame was the one who answered him. "Ayame-chan…where's the old man?"

Ayame didn't answer him for a moment, suddenly sporting a more downcast expression. "He's in the hospital. Heart attack."

Naruto's eyes widened and he looked down at the table. He always felt that he knew enough about Teuchi and his daughter to keep tabs on them, but the war and Sakura's predicament changed things dramatically. "Oh. I'm so sorry…"

Ayame turned around smiling "Oh, don't be, Naruto-kun! It's nobody's fault. He's…he's just getting old. The doctors say he'll pull through, but he's been forced to retire."

A sudden but quick pain struck Naruto as he realized he may never see Teuchi work at this stand again. "So, you're here by yourself? It has to be tough…"

"Well, yes, but with the war, business has been slow lately, so I'm getting by…anyway, pork ramen, right? Coming up!" She turned back to the Ayame Naruto knew and got to work.

As Ayame got to work, Naruto sensed a familiar presence. "What brings you here, Ero-senin?"

Jiraya smiled and took his seat. "Just checking in with you." Ayame asked for his order as she cooked Naruto's, but Jiraya let her know he was fine. "I'll be out of here in a minute."

"Just depressed that we couldn't get Sakura out today." Naruto stated.

"It's going to be tough, Naruto, but we'll manage. I promise you." Jiraya rose and said "That's all, kid. See ya tomorrow…"

"Wait." Naruto grabbed the sage's sleeve before he walked away. "I would like to ask you something."

Jiraya was curious, but smiled and sat back down. "Okay. What?"

"I'd like to ask you something about my parents…how they fell in love." Naruto barely got that last part out.

Jiraya's eyes lit up. "You didn't look at the tape?" he asked curiously

Naruto flinched, feeling ashamed of himself. "I can't. Laugh if you want….but I would very much like Sakura-chan to watch it with me."

"I understand." The toad sage acknowledged with a knowing smile. Jiraya leaned forward as he began. "Well, I don't know all the details, but it was just something that happened between them overtime. Kushina didn't start out that good as a kunoichi, but Minato noticed how hard she worked and helped her at times. Soon, much to his annoyance, she kept asking him for help and though he expressed frustration, he always did it in the end. Of course, if he refused, she would have pounded him." Jiraya chuckled as he thought of the few times she did that to him. "Eventually she was starting to rival your father. Then one day, we were attacked by an S-class criminal named Kuroinsei and his gang of rogue ninjas. It took me and the other 2 sanin combined to gradually weaken him. Minato and Kushina had to work together, and from what I heard they did so very well; they perfectly complemented one another even. However, as good as your father was, he was not invincible. A kunai hit him, and sent him falling from the 3rd floor of a building. That didn't kill him, but the one who threw it was about to. I was on top of one my toads, helping Tsunade and Orochimaru deal with the Kuroinsei guy. From on top of Gamabunta, I was able to see what was going on, but due to our injuries, I wasn't sure I could make it in time. As I hurried along, it looked like your dad wouldn't make it…but then Kushina got between him and Minato, taking the ninjato that was meant for him. Suddenly, Minato flew into a rage, and gathered rotating chakra in his hand. That…"

"…that was how my father completed the Rasengan. To protect my mother…" He could just see it like it was a movie.

"Yes. He ran on his arm and good leg like an animal, and hit the number 2 man in the chest. I'll never forget the agonizing scream he made, and how his body was sent spinning through four buildings. He didn't seem to recognize that, though. He got to Kushina as soon as he could, and did his best to get her to Tsunade. Thankfully, Orochimaru finally landed the killing blow on our opponent, allowing Tsunade to focus her attention on treating people. It didn't look good for your mother; not even Tsunade was certain she would make it. But she was strong, and she pulled through. Eventually, when they both fully recovered, your dad asked her out on a date, as a token of his thanks. Naturally, she was quite excited, and wouldn't stop jumping around and screaming. You should have seen the look on your father's face!! He thought he just doomed himself!"

Jiraya laughed and soon Naruto began laughing with him. "So, my mother was like me? I admit, I'm a bit silly myself, but I just can't imagine a girl with my personality!

Jiraya finally calmed down and continued with his story. "Anyway, he went through with it, and it changed him forever. He was still the same Minato I knew, but every time someone would mention Kushina when they were separated…he would just give this distant look." Jiraya sighed, but he was smiling. "Soon, he stopped doing research with me, and every time I went to look for him, he would be with Kushina. Your mother and father, despite some differences, found that they had a lot in common, and could feel like themselves without fear whenever they were near each other. And I have to admit, your mother did become quite beautiful with age. Eventually, it became more intimate…and here you are before us."

Naruto gulped when he mentioned "intimate" and nothing about marriage. "You mean…"

Jiraya firmly patted him on the shoulder. "No need to worry. You were just unexpected; but when Kushina found out she was pregnant…the two of them were overjoyed. Oh, and you know what the real kick was?"

Naruto nodded dumbfounded. "They named you after a character in one of my books!" Jiraya then realized his mistake; he could almost see, in slow motion, Naruto about to jump up and panic. Quickly, Jiraya grabbed a hold of him. "Wait!! It wasn't from one of my Icha Icha books!!! It was from one of my very first books, having nothing to do with sex!!! Honest!"

Naruto's face seemed to turn back to normal, but then shot him a glance of skepticism. "Well, what IS that book about, because you forced me to read every novel you published back then, and truth be told, the few books I do own from you I only read for the smut. I'm not aware of you writing anything else"

Jiraya wanted to deny that, but it was best to stay on subject. "It was an adventure book, one about the kind of ninja I wanted to be when I was young. Minato read it, and liked the book, and asked me if they could name you after the main character. I wasn't sure at first, but Kushina liked the idea too, so that's how you came to be named."

"How come I never heard of the book?" Naruto asked, still not believing him.

"Because it was a flop financially. So…I went ahead and did adult fiction instead." Naruto palmed himself in disbelief. Jiraya winced as he admitted to his student "Yeah, I know; I gave up. And after working so hard to create a character who wouldn't do that…"

The two were interrupted when Ayame's lovely voice chimed in. "I'm sorry for the wait, Naruto-kun!! Here's your ramen, just the way you like it! I added some extra pork in there for you too!"

Naruto was caught off guard by Ayame's gesture. "Ayame-chan!! You didn't have to do that!"

Ayame dismissed his reply. "But I wanted to, Naruto-kun! I understand you're going through a hard time!"

Naruto was about to ask her what she was talking about, but then it occurred to him: Sakura. "Oh." Naruto slowly took in some Ramen. "Thank you so much, Ayame-chan." He said between bites.

"You don't have to thank me, Naruto-kun. You've always been our best customer; I wish I could be on the civilian council to help you, but I need to support my father right now."

"Don't beat yourself over it; I understand completely." The jonin still said between mouthfuls.

Jiraya, deciding it was time for him to leave Naruto to eat in peace, rose from his seat and patted Naruto on the shoulder. "I've got to get going. You enjoy your meal, and I'll see you tomorrow."

"I'm glad to have found you all. I only wish I could participate with you, but even with the best medicine, you can clearly see that time will take me any day now. Despite our…differences, the Sandaime and I knew that we would always need new, young ones such as yourselves to carry on our legacy and protect the village. If only the current generation were as smart and as experienced as you all."

Danzo addressed a group of adults, ranging in age between 30 and 50. Some were civilians; others were ninja but were now working their way up to the council. Like him, they shared his extreme views, but never took an interest in politics…until now.

"I always knew the jinchuriki would be trouble in the end; I just never imagined that he would sway so many people to view him as one of us…"

"This generation is spoiled; in the Sandaime's arrogance to keep the existence of jinchuriki secret, he has made the village dangerously naïve…"

"And now the Akatsuki is hunting these Biju. We can't allow them to obtain Kyuubi. By any means necessary."

Danzo smiled evilly. "To ask both councils and the Hokage to kill him will be a waste of time. I suggest you use some of my own private ninja to investigate other jinchuriki around the continent; I'm sure we'll find compelling evidence to make the masses view him with the contempt they once had. There's one more thing: You need to make plans for a new Hokage. Tsunade won't be Hokage for much longer; despite her medical abilities, she will be retiring soon. She's approaching 60, and is already past her prime. I suggest you all go about who to select for the next Hokage."

"We will. That will take years, though."

"Take your time; you'll have plenty of it." The leader of Root replied, bowing respectfully.

Danzo walked away on his cane, back to his mansion. Although he was still sadden that his dream would not be reached, at least other individuals would carry it on for him. In death, he will have created the stepping stones to destroying Sarutobi's own legacy. Finally, his servants opened his mansion gates, allowing him easy access. Although long retired, Danzo's senses were still on par with other ninja, and sensed a presence inside. It wasn't anything threatening; just angry. He made note of Shiguri, standing there in the dark. "Decided to finally crawl back?" the old man asked indifferently.

"You know something about Sakura the others don't, don't you?" Danzo ignored him and walked to his easy chair. "Well!? Answer me!!"

Danzo sighed irritably. "So what if I did? Would someone you simply suspect of being guilty confess outright? Would strong denial be enough to convince everyone else? As usual, you're nothing but a worthless child."

Shiguri did his best to pretend the words didn't hurt him. "I find it too convenient that you were the one who brought that tape to the council's attention."

"Believe what you will; I am simply doing my duty. The only reason I tell the guards not to bar you from my home is because we are relatives, even if you are in fact a bastard child; you should be grateful for that and learn some respect. At least unlike Tsunade…I was actually interested in finding your mother after your father was killed."

Shiguri tried to retort, but he couldn't. "Tsunade? And my mother? But if she knew…she would have! Right?" The words wouldn't come out. Finally, he took out his frustration on the nearest wall and left a nice dent in it with his fist. His head became jumbled in chaos as he stormed out.

Trusting his senses that he was gone, and making sure the place wasn't bugged, he went to his bedroom.

"Everything is ready, Danzo-sama." An unknown root ninja addressed him.

"Excellent. Proceed." The nin disappeared, and Danzo simply looked into the moon. "Let's see how you handle this, Uzumaki. If this won't cause you to snap…well, I'll just have to take more desperate measures." Danzo's mouth curved into a wicked smile.

"Five minutes, as usual!" the guards yelled.

Sakura grimaced. "Cold showers. Oh joy." Sakura quickly stepped into the bathroom, discarding her uniform. The guards looked away the entire time, but she was suspicious as always. It was irrelevant in the end; this place was a hell-hole as it was, and any peeping toms wouldn't add anything to it. Sakura just wanted to get this part over with. Quickly, she stepped in and turned the water on. "AHHH!!" Sakura yelped as the cold water hit her body. Sakura gritted her teeth, and applied the soap to her body. "I'll be lucky if I don't die of pneumonia by now." It also unnerved her how she was showering in a jail. Though there were no other inmates, the kunoichi still felt uneasy. Especially when considering her chakra was sealed. "Stay calm, girl. Remember what shishou taught you…"

A 13-year old Sakura collapsed on her knees. She never felt so exhausted before.

"Get up, Sakura!!" Tsunade came down on her with a kick, which she barely managed to dodge. That did not protect her from the shockwave that sent her flying though.

"AHHHH!!!" Sakura already had a good grasp of Tsunade's super strength; but Tsunade had seal experts seal off her chakra, and today, she was being forced to fight Tsunade without it. Worse, Tsunade threatened that unless she made satisfactory progress, she would not remove it.

"Your chakra won't always be there when you need it, Sakura! What will you do when that happens!? Give up!? Or find a way around it!?" Tsunade launched her kunai, which Sakura leapt over.

Though she successfully avoided them, she could feel how much strain it was putting on her body. She never had the most stamina in her graduating class, but she felt she was moving as though she was sick. Substitutions would do her no good either. Sakura ducked for cover as her master chucked a boulder at her. "I should just beg and give up…"

But then she remembered Naruto and Sasuke. Sasuke, who was a born prodigy and now needed her help. Naruto, who started out as a dunce but worked hard and became one of the strongest genin of their generation. "NO!!! I made a promise…!"

Tsunade walked towards her student threateningly. "Last chance, Sakura!! Your training will mean nothing if you cannot fight under the worst of conditions!!"

Tsunade charged, but this time, Sakura was ready. She threw kunai with explosive tags attached. Tsunade dodged every one of them. "Not good enough!"

"I'm not done yet!!" At the same time, Sakura threw a smoke bomb down. Tsunade simply responded by executing a powered-up roundhouse, blowing the smoke away. But then something happened that she didn't see coming: Sakura threw lose soil in her eyes! Tsunade was blinded, if only for a split second. "Now's my chance!!" Sakura leapt onto the tall woman, and pulled out a kunai. She made a motion to stab Tsunade, coming within a hair's reach of her throat, and stopped.

Tsunade took note of it, and smiled. "Very good. You learned to never give up, and use every tool you had available to you. You were also smart to go for an area that would have killed me instantly, instead of taking a chance to just wound me. You pass."

Sakura smiled, and withdrew her kunai…and suddenly felt herself collapse in searing pain. Tsunade smirked, and held up a hand forming a chakra scalpel. "Of course, you were nowhere close to killing me." It took Sakura all of her willpower not to cuss out her teacher.

"…good times…" Sakura smiled, trying to distract herself from the cold water just enough to make it bearable.

The two guards stood at the door, seemingly emotionless. Though their behavior with her was strict, personally they admired her work, and were saddened to see her go through this. They also had enough experience dealing with prisoners to more or less see a guilty man or an innocent one. Judging by her behavior, they were pinning on the later. Still, they had a job to do, and sadly it was not judging her ultimate fate.

One of the guards was then distracted by the sound of something rolling, like a marble. His partner heard it to, and they both drew their swords. Finally they found the marble rolling towards them…and before they could react, an explosion of smoke blanketed them. "Quick! Get Haruno and…and…" It was too late for both of them, as they both passed out.

Just then, a large man walked towards the showers. He was extremely muscular, and covered in scars. His head was bald, and he wore a simple prison uniform. "So, this is it." he noted.

"Yes." Another voice said from somewhere unknown said within the walls. "I assume you'll have no problem with this job?"

"For my freedom…" the man grinned madly. "…I don't require much. And to be honest, when you told me exactly who she was, I would have gladly done this for the fun of it! I presume you've brought my weapon?"

Upon his request, the masked ninja removed a scroll, and pulled out a fearsome weapon. It strongly resembled Zabuza's sword, but instead of a handle, the blade was attached by a chain. The man picked the blade up carefully like it weighed nothing. "Excellent. My master will be pleased, and he has already prepared a carriage and ship for you." The unknown person instructing him disappeared.

The man just smiled. "Hmph. Time to get to work." He eagerly began swinging his weapon in anticipation.

Sakura quickly dried off and dressed. The first thing she was going to do when she got out of this was to make a trip to the bathhouse. "Shit, I shouldn't have thought of that." It was never good to tempt one's self with things that were out of reach. She opened the door and prepared for her day in court. "Okay, I'm-" She noticed the guards were lying down, limp as ragdolls. Quickly, she checked their pulse. "Oh don't worry; they're not dead. But they probably soon will be!!" Even with her chakra sealed, Sakura's shinobi instincts took over. Not only did she dodge the weapon, but she carried her guards with her. She looked up to the cave ceiling and nearly panicked. She knew this man! Muscular, covered in scars, shaved head….but what she remembered most was the weapon. Had he trained harder, he could have become a weapons master on par with the Seven Mist Swordsman. During a minor war with another village, she fought him and defeated him easily; he survived only because of his cooperation after capture. "Gekido Raiu."

The large man laughed. "I'm glad you remembered me! I remember you…that pink-haired bitch that took me down in one blow, and healed me only to have me interrogated and sent to that hellhole in the capital! I thought it was only natural that I return the favor…"

Sakura got into a defensive stance. "I've beaten you before. What makes you think this time will be any different?" At this point, a bluff was her best chance.

But Raiu did not buy it. "What kind of a fool would fall for that? I know your chakra is sealed off, same as any other ninja prisoner! And…" He showed his wrists, which lacked the seal markings she had. "…my boss gave mine back. I'll admit I'm a bit rusty, but as you are now, you will still be a great warm up!"

Quickly, Sakura leaped out of the way, and threw a shuriken she took from the pouches of her fallen guards. Raiu easily blocked it with his chain, and swung the sword at Sakura. The kunoichi side-stepped, and made a run for it. Raiu decided to play along for now. While taking the sleeping guards as hostages would have proven efficient, he hated using hostages; it made it look like he was weak. Sakura, having her chakra sealed, made it bad enough and he wasn't about to stoop any lower. Quickly, he followed her into the caverns.

Sakura hoped she could get away from him; it didn't seem likely. But if she had to fight him…she would just have to find a way to win. Suddenly, a chain grabbed her ankle, causing her to fall on her face. Quickly, she was yanked so hard she worried her leg would be popped out of its socket. She almost didn't see the blade in time, but successfully arched her body over it, and grabbed onto Raiu's shoulder. As soon as gravity took it's course, Sakura took out another shuriken and stabbed the rogue nin in the neck.

Raiu screamed, and slammed Sakura away with a back fist. Sadly, she didn't get a fatal spot. "I must really be getting soft, to allow someone like you in your condition to nearly kill me!" He pulled the star out and pulled Sakura, still caught in his chain, towards him. He lifted Sakura into the air and began to choke her. Sakura kicked his chin a couple of times, but without her chakra she only had the strength of an average woman; not much good against a large muscle man like him. "Sucks to be you, doesn't it?" He saw that Sakura was struggling to keep her mouth shut, fighting the mechanics of her own body. "Looks like you got something to say. Well, out with it then, let it all out! Or do I need to help you…" He squeezed tighter, and Sakura's moth opened wide…spitting out dirt into Raiu's eyes. "AAAHHHH!!" He let go of Sakura, who freed herself and ran away as fast as she could.

"There's only one way to beat him…"

Raiu ran back to the cavern where he first attacked Sakura. "Doubt she needs to wash herself." The only logical explanation would be that she was setting up trap. But how? She might have gotten the swords from the two guards, but not only was she only an average swordsman, the weapons were inferior to his own. He looked around, unable to find her. However, he saw the guards have been robbed of their swords. Then, he heard running water coming from the shower room. "Odd…" Figuring that's where he would find her, he walked inside.

He opened the door, finding all of the faucets running ice-cold water, causing the whole floor to flood. And right in front of him was Sakura, holding the two ninjato. "You're so stupid." Raiu sighed. "You may as well kneel while I cut your head off; no point in fighting the inevitable, and it's quicker."

Sakura just looked at him with her best killer face. "Then why are you afraid to come over here?"

Raiu growled, took a step…and quickly retreated back when he felt himself about to slip. He looked down at the floor, noticing the remaining shuriken Sakura had borrowed was jammed into the floor, with their sharp points sticking straight up. "Almost had me there." Without a word, he threw his heavy blade, which Sakura ducked, leaving the blade to hit only a concrete wall. What Raiu did not know was that the water tanker was behind that wall, and his blade punctured it, releasing highly pressurized water directly towards him, sending him flying out the doorway, while Sakura crouched down and used the blades to hold her in place.

Raiu tried to get his bearings straight, but like any human being, his body could only recover on its own time. When it seemed his senses kicked back in, something snaked around his neck. In his position, even an average man would have no trouble dragging someone like him with proper leverage. He looked down to notice it was his own chain that choked his neck. Sakura pulled him towards the stair rail, and wrapped it there. She then pulled his wrists behind him…that part took a lot of work…and wrapped his chain around them behind his back. His blade would keep him anchored. But just in case that didn't work, Sakura impaled Raiu's leg with one of the two ninjato she acquired. Raiu screamed in both pain and rage; any movement now would sever his leg.

Quickly, Sakura pointed the other sword at Raiu's throat. "Can't believe I lost to a bitch like you again, and when you were practically delivered to me on a silver platter." He whispered under his breath.

"I am the Hokage's apprentice after all, and in all honesty your village hyped you up quite a bit." Sakura pushed the blade against the skin of his neck, making sure he would bleed but not die. "Who sent you? Tell me!!"

Before she could get an answer, someone grabbed her and carried her away with the speed and grace only a ninja can have. Sakura was about to fight him off, but suddenly an explosion rocked the cave. Sakura looked back in shock as Raiu was reduced to a blackened spot on the floor. "Suicide? No…he didn't behave like he knew he was going to die! Someone was controlling him without knowing it…" Sakura then looked up to her rescuer: Sai!

Quickly, Sai dispelled summons that were protecting Sakura's guards. "I'm sorry I didn't get here sooner, Sakura. I suspected something, but I didn't receive word of it until it was almost too late."

Sai then turned to Sakura, quickly checking whatever wounds she received. He wasn't a medic-nin, but any ninja in his position knew how to spot potentially fatal wounds and at least treat them until a proper doctor could see them. "Good, nothing serious. Anyway, I can't say who and why…but I think you know."

Sakura's eyes widened, and she gave a slight nod. "Danzo…" "Sai, don't tell N-"

"No. He has a right to know. After all…I think you know keeping the truth from him will only hurt him, even if it's meant to protect him. I'm sure personal experience taught you that much, am I right?"

Sakura's lips quivered, but realized Sai was right. Naruto had to know; he had been, after all, concerned for her everyday since her arrest.

Sai wrapped a towel around her, and was about to depart as she tried to dry her prison uniform. However, he stopped. There was something he needed to say. "Sakura…I owe you and Naruto an apology. I haven't been the friend I should have, the one I wanted to be. I swear, I will make it up to you both." The guards began to wake up, and Sai vanished.

Naruto was worried. He heard a frantic knocking on the door as he was getting ready for court, and found out it was Kakashi, who looked unusually distraught. Naruto was told that today had been canceled. He was then told to come to the Hokage's office within two hours. Naruto tried to think of all the reasons a trial would be suspended and what was important enough for him to meet with Tsunade at the same time. He couldn't think of anything…and that worried him.

Finally, he reached Tsunade's office. But they weren't alone; Kakashi, Jiraya, Yamato the Konoha 11 of his generation, and even Sai were there.

"Naruto, glad you can make it." The Hokage noted.

Naruto noticed the serious looks everyone was giving him. In fact, Ino in particular seemed to be trying to stop herself from crying. "Does this have anything to do with why court has been suspended?"

Tsunade closed her eyes and sighed. "Unfortunately, yes. There was an incident earlier this morning. We don't know how, but Sakura was attacked."

Naruto's eyes widened. "Is she-"

"She's fine, but it nonetheless unnerved her. The attacker himself was a ninja who Sakura herself defeated quite sometime ago; he was locked away in the capital, but he was brought here somehow. Raiu didn't have any resources to bribe someone to take him here…which means that someone hired his skills to attack Sakura when she was vulnerable."

Naruto could only think of one person. "Danzo. He had her attacked to get to me."

Tsunade nodded. "Correct. Sadly, we have no physical evidence to convict him. But that's not the main reason I summoned you all here…due to this incident, the shinobi council has agreed to shorten the trial for her safety. Basically, each side gets one day to present their case. We'll be in court for nearly 12 hours on each day, and this is normally considered extreme and unnecessary. But because someone is clearly trying to harm Sakura, they're willing to go through with this, on the condition that if they find her innocent, she will be put under surveillance for a month. It works both ways, as it can also be used for her protection. However, despite that, I'm sure Danzo will do everything he can to make sure we don't pull this off."

Naruto nodded in understanding. "Okay. Tell me what you need us to do."

Sai entered his home after the meeting as discreetly as he could; he had to leave, less Danzo finally decided to terminate him. As usual, he looked around to see signs of anyone unwanted breaking in. He set up a number of home-made security systems to make sure of that. It looked okay so far. In a place as barren as his, one could easily see if anything was out of sync. But he was experienced in getting in and out of the messiest homes without leaving a trace, and so were his root comrades. "There's one last place I have to check."

He went to the middle of his room, and opened a trap door, which normally contained his drawings inside. But when he lifted the door, he noticed a tag. "Oh-"

An explosion rocked the small apartment. It seemed unlikely that even most skilled ninjas could have survived it untouched.

Naruto would probably be furious with Jiraya if he saw him now, and would chide him into trying to get his case ready. But he had his case ready for several days now…taking some time for a little research wasn't going to hurt anything.

Normally, Jiraya wouldn't get this close to the bath house, but he found the most beautiful butt he had ever seen, and for this he HAD to get a close-up. "Oh yeah, that's it. Lift it a little more…niiiccceee…"

On the other side of a bath house, the woman currently under Jiraya's gaze tapped a small radio in her ear. "Target is distracted. Take him out."

"Roger."

As the sanin was still jotting down notes, something whizzed in the air and struck him in the neck. After the initial pain, the sanin found his world spinning, and his breaths growing shorter and shorter. "No…not now…" With that, Jiraya collapsed on the ground. It was a good five minutes before someone found him and called for help.

"…I see. Is that all?" Tsunade asked the investigator, still in shock from news of Jiraya's death.

"Yes, Hokage-sama. I'm sorry." He answered, quickly tucking his clipboard under his arm.

Though she was sad, oddly, she shed no tears. Facing away from him, she finally said "I've had a long day. I think I'll be turning in." With that, she slammed the door in his face.

The investigator left. It was odd…it seemed she just wanted to hear the details of Jiraya's death and be done with it. Such a behavior usually suggested that person would be the killer, but in Tsunade's case, there was no rational motive to substantiate such a claim. Well, it wasn't his job anyway; an investigation would be conducted in full, and they would find the real killer soon enough (or so they would try), and he took his leave.

In her office, instead of leaving and going to bed, Tsunade anxiously waited for a phone call. She wasn't worried about her phone being tapped; Danzo may be crafty, but he wasn't stupid enough to try and bug the office of the Hokage. What she was worried about was that he tapped into others' phones; phones in the residencies of people she was in contact with…The phone finally rang, bringing her out of her thoughts.

Quickly, she picked it up. "Hello?"

"It's done." A familiar voice said over the phone.

"Excellent. And what about him?"

"He's fine, but in hiding. Danzo tried to do him in too."

"Are you sure your phone isn't tapped?"

"Don't worry; I'm using a phone booth."

She was glad that the council had approved the budget to install those earlier. "Okay; attend tomorrow as planned." Quickly, she hung up.

Danzo walked over to his seat. He had finished his prosecution of Sakura last night, and now there was nothing more he could do. He was shocked that Sakura actually managed to kill the man he sent to her cell; he had seen even better ninja than her have their chakra sealed away and fall to low-life thugs. Even so, surely just the news of it should have sent the jinchuriki into a blind rage and unleash some of the Kyuubi. As he looked at Naruto, he could see that he was clearly in control. "How can this be? Could Kizu have been wrong? No…even if he was mistaken, they are still teammates who embrace Hiruzen's ideals. Even mere friendship should trigger something, just like it did for Uchiha Sasuke! Breaking Namikaze's son is a harder task than I realized…Kizu was right in asking me to call upon successors; I'll never be able to accomplish that in whatever time I have left…" Nothing more he could do now; just see what fate had decided.

Now it was time for Sakura's defense. As planned, Kakashi went up first. There were fears of bias, but due to his reputation everyone readily accepted Kakashi coming to his student's defense. Shikaku interrogated him, and the Copy-nin gave his testimony. Then, Shikaku asked Kakashi "Are you ready to bring him out?" Kakashi nodded, and Shikaku addressed the two councils. "I now call upon a witness that we've kept secret from you for military reasons. Be warned, he is a little…strange." With that, Kakashi unveiled a scroll, and summoned a head. The councils were initially disgusted with Kakashi, but their opinions were about to change very soon.

"So…" the head spoke. "…this is it?" The councils screamed and gasped in disbelief at what they saw. Though he was equally shocked, Homura maintained a calm attitude and hit his gavel.

"Order! Odd as this is, I would trust the Copy Ninja and Nara Shikaku not to do something this absurd without reason."

Kakashi bowed. "I apologize for this…unusual witness, but I can assure you he is relevant to the case in hand. For you see, he is Hidan, missing nin of the Hot Springs village and member of Akatsuki. As for why he's only a head…to put it bluntly he is immortal." Kakashi nodded at Shikaku to go ahead, who then turned to face the Akatsuki his comrade had captured. "Now then, I believe you have story to tell these gentlemen. The one about the pink-haired kunoichi."

With that, Hidan began to tell his story. How he got out of the hole Shikamaru buried him in, that Akatsuki got him the new body, although he didn't delve into the details, and the incident with Sakura.

"Can you explain how the jutsu worked?" Shikaku asked the head.

"I already told that scared freak, fuck no!!!" Kakashi assumed he meant Ibuki.

Homura threatened him from the podium. "You will watch your tongue…"

Hidan reacted immediately, shouting "FUCK YOU!!! I'LL SAY WHATEVER I-"

Before he could continue with his foul-mouthed rant, Kakashi ran a powerful electric current from his palm into Hidan, sending the single head into a fit of convulsions. "My apologies…even now he still has quite the temper…" Kakashi ceased, and asked Hidan "Would you mind repeating that, a bit more calmly this time perhaps?"

"Sure, sure, whatever you say." Hidan panted. "No, I don't know how it works. Kizu-sama never tells us anything until he thinks we're ready to know."

A council member from the civilian council rose. "Pardon the interruption, but if he's willing to tell us this much about the defendant, why hasn't he confessed secrets about Akatsuki? He says nothing of who his leader is, or what the organization's objective is."

Kakashi answered calmly "Ibuki tried his best, but it seems all Akatsuki members are given a seal that prevents them from spilling vital information. Since Sakura was never part of any major Akatsuki activities, any information regarding her was not considered a threat by the organization and was therefore attainable. Everything else…was impossible for even Ibuki to get out." With that, Kakashi rolled the head back up and returned to the benches.

Kakashi and Hidan's portion went well, but Tsunade had a feeling not good enough. Next, Hinata took the stand. Danzo already showed the councils photos of her injuries as a result of fighting Sakura. Naturally, they were surprised Hinata testified in favor of Sakura. Shikaku asked "…so, with your Byakugan you could see some kind of radio waves being transmitted to Sakura?"

"Yes, that's correct." Hinata answered.

"Even so, that alone convinced you Haruno was not acting on her free will?" Shikaku personally did not need anymore convincing, but he had a job to do and be thorough.

"More than that. She was behaving as if she didn't want to get caught; if she intended to betray us, I'd imagine she would be much more subtle and natural in her behavior. Also, the only one she seemed to recognize was Hokage-sama. She didn't seem to even know who the Kazekage was as well…or for that matter myself." Hinata then explained that she was the one chosen to free Sakura in what became fighting for her life.

"And yet after the beating she gave you, you still defend her?"

"If my assumption had been wrong, Sakura would have used the opportunity to kill me and I would not be here before you. She was able to resist whatever force was controlling her just enough to stop herself and help me free her. Also, while such an event would truly sadden me…if I felt Sakura, or anyone from this village really did betray us…I would not hesitate to do what was necessary."

If anyone could have convinced the councils that Sakura had really turned nuke-nin, it was Hinata. The fact that she did the opposite certainly did have a powerful effect on the council's opinion. After she left, Inoichi began his testimony. "…it was as she said. Her memories confirm it."

Shikaku asked "But what if those memories were implanted? With all the jutsus in the world, surely Akatsuki could…"

"I have considered that possibility as well. But I see no signs of memory tapping. I double-checked just to be sure, and as far as the expertise of my clan is concerned, no lasting effect on her mind occurred."

Shikaku simply smiled at his friend.

Most members of the council accepted his words and everyone else's. Hidan, while foul-mouthed and having no regard for Sakura's well-being, was clearly not motivated to keep any secrets from them. Hinata was seen as the purest in her generation, and no one could think of any good reason why she would lie for Sakura, especially after the beating she received. Although Inoichi had a close bond with Sakura, he was known to uphold the law no matter who broke it, especially when his sister went to serve Orochimaru. Garaa, who testified earlier, spoke in favor of Sakura and most would not argue with the Kage of an allied village Still, for many the tape alone had them believing that Sakura had made a decision similar to Sasuke's.

"Is there anyone else you would like to call to Haruno's defense?" Homura asked Shikaku.

The Nara man gave Tsunade a wink. "Yes. I summon…Jiraya."

There was an outburst of surprise from almost everyone, and Homura had to pound his gavel again. "I hope that for your sake this is not a joke, Nara."

"Don't worry, old timer! He's telling the truth!" The voice was Jiraya's, but the one who spoke it was not; it was an unassuming man in glasses and a suit. He walked up to the podium, electing whispers of protests. When he took his seat, he disappeared in a cloud of smoke, and appeared once again as the sage that everyone knew. "Sorry about faking my death, but whoever was behind that incident a couple days ago does not want us to win." As if fate was playing a bad joke, a ninja dressed in black came from behind and slashed his midsection wide open. Shikaku bound their shadows, but the ninja began foaming at the mouth; another suicide assassin!.

Everyone was panicking, but Tsunade put a stop to that with one word: "SILENCE!" Everyone stopped dead in their tracks, and noticed that the corpse the suicide assassin struck turned into nothing but toads. Tsunade then walked over to the wall and knocked. "Okay, you can come out now."

Opening up as if it were fleshy muscles, the walls retracted to reveal Jiraya. "Like my toad clone said, someone really doesn't want us to win." Jiraya walked up and took his seat again. "Anyway, I have something to show you that may change your perception of what Haruno Sakura did." Quickly, he pulled a tape from a scroll. "When doing espionage, I always record what I do. It takes a while to get it on VHS, which is why I couldn't show it to you all immediately." Without further delay, a television was brought forward and Jiraya inserted his tape into the VCR.

Danzo gripped his cane in anger and defeat. Whatever it was, he was sure he just lost. He was already taking a big risk as it was with attempting to use Sakura as Biju bait and two assassination attempts, one he was still unsure if he was successful. Anymore, and it wouldn't be hard for anyone to connect the dots. "So this is it."

Finally, the tape began to play. "I apologize, but I did not have anytime to determine the exact location of what I wanted to show you; you'll just have to sit through this for a few minutes."

The whole court was forced to watch a few battles, some of which the civilians did not have the stomach to watch, and finally him going inside a toad. The next part really got Sakura's attention: His meeting with Tobi!

She heard it from him before, but seeing it was different. It happened just like Jiraya said; however, the conversation as she knew it ended and continued to something else she wasn't told, and the camera mounted on what she assumed was Jiraya's shoulder shifted towards her.

"How are you guys doing that?"

"I don't understand how the jutsu works, if that's what you're asking. But from what I can gather, Kizu-sama is using the jewels on her face to transmit his chakra and possess her body like it's his. He can use all her jutsus, but has very limited access to her memories."

Jiraya interrupted "My toad spies are telling me that Naruto is on his way here. Quickly, you need to hide me and get him to heal you."

"Aren't you going to want to stop your jinchuriki?"

"There are others with him; they're staging a rescue attempt of some sort. He should be fine."

That was it; Tobi had confirmed her innocence!

"You actually managed to convince that one Akatsuki member to join you?" While it sounded like a standard interrogation question, truthfully Shikaku asked with the utmost amazement and smiled.

"Yeah, I did. From what I can tell, Haruno actually got him to doubt his superior and that prompted him to act. You can ask Hidan there, he'll confirm it."

Deciding it was best not to pull out the foul-mouthed head again, Jiraya was dismissed, and the defense portion of the trial had officially come to an end. The only thing left was the combined verdict of the councils.

Homura made the announcement: "Both the prosecution and defense have presented their cases; we will return in two days, and will return to hear the councils' verdict." Everyone dispersed with the hit of the gavel.

Every friend and associate of Sakura didn't speak with each other the entire time; everyone was too nervous. Despite several credible testimonies, the tape of possessed Sakura would still be a huge factor working against her.

Both Naruto and Tsunade were among those most affected by the ordeal. If Sakura was deemed guilty, both Tsunade and Naruto were prepared to give up everything to help her. Finally, after what seemed to be an eternity, the day came for them to hear the verdict of the councils.

"Have you each reached a verdict?" Homura asked.

"Yes." Both councils responded unanimously.

"Very well, how did the civilian council vote? All in favor?" The council held up their hands; of the 20 members, only 8 voted innocent; 12 deemed her guilty.

Naruto clenched his fists. It was now up to the Shinobi council. But if they denied Sakura her freedom, he would do everything he could to stop her from going back to prison, damn the rest of the village.

"Now for the Shinobi council: all in favor?" Both Naruto and Sakura nearly screamed in joy; 7 out of the 10 members ruled her innocent, including Koharu (since Homura and Danzo were taking an active role in the trial, they could not vote). Sakura was free, but not without consequence, as the civilian council's overall opinion was opposite the shinobi's. At the moment, she didn't care; being demoted to a genin was a small price to pay in order to avoid life in prison…or worse.

Homura began the terms of Sakura's release. "Very well. Haruno Sakura, officially you are hereby cleared of all charges. However, given the great uncertainty and concern, we must take precautions in case our councils are mistaken. First of all, while you will retain your jonin rank, you are hereby stripped of your duties to ANBU. You will be restricted to team missions only, and always as one of the subordinates. While we will allow you to perform medical services to our ninja with informed consents, you will be strictly forbidden from working in the public hospital. You are also forbidden from leaving the village for non-shinobi matters without an approved escort. These terms will be absolute for a full year. Afterwards, the councils will review your case and decide whether to extend or remove these restrictions. Dismissed!" The final sound of the gavel sounded like music to most everyone's ears.

Ino clasped her hands in gratitude. Hinata hugged her father, who was one of the shinobi council members who voted Sakura innocent.

Tsunade and Kakashi embraced Sakura in a group hug. Yuji came up to her, and bowed. Feeling awkward with the formalities, Yuji finally gave her a bear hug. "Glad you're okay, sis."

Though it still felt weird for Sakura to be considered an older sister to anyone, it felt nice. "Glad to be out of this mess." Sakura turned around to see Jiraya standing a slight distance away from the rest of her friends. Sakura walked in front of him and bowed. "Thank you so much, Jiraya-sama; if it weren't for you, I'd be in jail now." Jiraya blushed slightly, and waved his hand as a gesture of modesty.

Sakura nearly shrieked in surprise when someone grabbed her from behind. "Oh, my darling! I'm so glad you're okay!" It was a gray-haired woman who strongly resembled Sakura. Tsunade and Naruto had a pretty good idea of who it was.

Sakura gave a small smile and turned around to hug the other woman. "Thank you, Mom." Mrs. Haruno sobbed quietly in joy. Sakura looked around the courthouse, and while not surprised at what she found, was disappointed nonetheless. "Mom…where's Father?"

Her mother hesitated to answer. "I'm sorry; your father has…business to attend to."

Tsunade angrily growled "That's odd. I haven't been giving him or any other of the senior ninja missions lately. And he was specifically asked to attend."

Sakura's mother was about to give a half-assed answer, but Sakura interrupted. "It's alright, Shishou-sama. I have something to discuss with him anyway."

Tsunade had a pretty good feeling what that something was. She wasn't sure how Sakura's court martial affected Mr. Haruno's desire to get Sakura married, but nonetheless she had to do her part. "Listen, I know this is a bit sudden, but I need to make a brief trip. Kakashi will fill in for me if you need anything." Kakashi was about to protest, but sighed in defeat. He hated paperwork more than Tsunade. Sakura then eased herself out of her mother's hug, and ran towards Naruto.

"Sa-" Before he could even speak, Sakura hugged him so tight it felt like he was being smashed against her, and kissed him passionately. Naruto immediately went into the flow of it, but this was not the right place or time. Regretfully, he broke the kiss. "Sakura…if it's alright, would you like to stop by my place, if only for a few minutes? There's something I need to show you."

Sakura looked at him in surprise. "Um…would it be alright if we have dinner at your place as well? You can pick anything you like; so long as it's food." Sakura chuckled slightly, getting fed up with food pills.

Naruto gave her a soft and gentle smile in understanding. "Deal. I'll see you tonight."

With that, Sakura ran off to join her mother, who looked at her in shock. Naruto had a bad feeling about what Sakura was about to do. A part of him wanted to come with her, but he knew whatever it was, it was Sakura's business alone.

Midoriiro leaned against a tree to catch her breath. Even with her shinobi training, making it to Konoha in the time she had was taxing. Thankfully, the Mizukage had left a note giving her an extension; apparently, the outside woods were swarming with Konoha ANBU and Jonin. Understandable really, considering they just finished a war.

She was reminded of that when she heard someone approaching. Instinctively, she took to the trees and leapt into the bushiest branches. As expected, a pair of hunter-nin were quickly scanning the area. She remained completely motionless until they left.

Deciding to briefly check out her surroundings, she made a quick trip to the canopy, where she would not be found. From there, she caught her first glimpse of Konoha. "It's beautiful." She wished she could have grown up there, where even the shinobi raised and trained their children like normal people. She would not let Taifuu and Mizukage destroy such a place. But what about Sasuke? "Sasuke-chan…why would you ever leave such a place? What have you done?"

There you have it! I realize how ridiculously long these chapters are becoming…I guess I'm doing too much and wanting to get too much done in one chapter. I'll do my best to shorten these chapters from now on.

Next chapter, Sakura confronts her father, watches the tape with Naruto…and I am going to use this M rating the way it was intended to! Don't worry, I promise to make it tasteful!

Hane-Wing

Ha-Teeth

Kuroinsei-Black Meteor

Raiu Gekido-Thunderstorm Rage