The power of human sacrifice

by wylcaros

Abandoned at birth, searching for strength for survival-this is all about Naruto.

40. Chapter 40

Chapter 40

The guilt that gnaws at my soul

Naruto was lying in a hospital bed with his right arm and left leg hypnotized and his entire body bandaged from cuts. Tsunade didn't say what the results would be, but just limited herself to saying that things would get better. Shisui just trusted her, Naruto he didn't reprimand Naruto seeing his pitiful condition and just took all his gear with his clothes. But an hour later he returned with the blond's favorite pajamas and let him put them on. He similarly arranged the oranges and other preserves in the blond man's nightstand and summarized.

Shisui. Naru, congratulations again on your victory, but it wasn't easy. But still you are going into recovery now and listen to your primary care physician!

Naruto couldn't move freely, but decided to answer nonetheless.

Naruto... Okay brother Shisui, don't be afraid, you know how fast I recover!

Shisui smirked at such a remark and simply rubbed his head.

Shisui... Well, I've got things to do, I'll be there when I get off!

Naruto... All right!

Shisui left the room and met Tsunade to warn her about something.

Shisui... Tsunade herself, I hasten to warn you. Naruto has a terrible habit of running away from the hospital. Can you please ask one of the nursing staff to check his room more often?

Tsunade took that to heart and crunched her fingers.

Tsunade... You don't have to worry about that, if he thinks about running away, I'll personally break his other leg!

Shisui was dumbfounded by such measures and became agitated.

Shisui... Maybe we shouldn't.

Tsunade... Let's see his behavior!

Shisui just stepped away from her and walked off in the direction of the exit mentally sympathizing with the blond man. At the same time, Minato decided to go to the hospital after a few reports, and before talking to his son, he decided to ask about his health first. He was sitting in the office of the head doctor, the com who had recently become Tsunade. Tsunade wanted to ask Minato something herself, but first she decided to hear the reason for his visit.

Minato... Tsunade herself, I wanted to ask about Naruto's health status before I talk to him.

Tsunade tapped her fingers on the table and tossed the test results to the blond elder. Minato though he understood a lot of things, he wasn't very good at medicine and looked at Tsunade with a questioning look.

Tsunade... As the tests showed, in general, the motility is working fine. Mental status is also normal, what about the traumatized body parts. To start small, the bones in my left leg went cracked from the foot to the kneecap.

Minato even flinched at the fact that she considered it a small consequence.

Minato... What about the right hand?

Tsunade sighed in frustration and looked up.

Tsunade... The chakra channels on his left arm were torn to shreds. The bones in my arm went cracked and began to blend together. Because of the pain shock, he couldn't even feel the pain. But once the pain shock wore off.

Minato even closed his eyes without even letting himself imagine that pain.

Minato... It's horrible, it looks like it's because of the technique Naruto used.

Tsunade looked seriously at Minato.

Tsunade... Minato, you taught Naruto the rasengan, didn't you?

Minato lowered his gaze and in a quiet voice.

Minato... Yes!

Tsunade... But okay rasenganu, but the addition of the wind element... What was the name of this technique?

Minato... Rassensuriken.

Tsunade huffed at that name.

Tsunade... Anyway, did you know that this technique has hurt Naruto before?

For Minato, this news was very unpleasant and began to twiddle his thumbs, but still decided to answer honestly.

Minato... No, it's weird, he'd tell me if something went wrong.

Tsunade pointed to the report form.

Tsunale... In the course of the study, we found, recovering chakra channels. He seems to be silent on the fact that he has had problems using this technique.

Minato at that moment experienced in a long time anger directed towards his son. After all, he was very worried about him, and he chose to keep silent about his health condition, after using this technique. Still, I thought I'd point out another fact.

Minato... It's my fault, I knew adding wind chakra to rasengana wouldn't end well for him.

Tsunade was even surprised about such an important thing.

Tsunade... Strange, usually Naruto is so forward-thinking and it's unlikely he'd use this technique to his own detriment.

Minato... Perhaps he didn't intend to use it, for much of his battle had not gone according to plan.

Tsunade leaned back in her chair turning to the left of the table and looking out the window.

Tsunade.. Maybe, but you're the one who made this mess, you're the one who's gonna have to clean it up.

Minato... Okay Tsunade herself, but can you be more specific about how this technique affects him?

Tsunade turned to Minato and began to draw a rough picture.

Tsunade... As I understand it, this technique is very similar to both the Kaseri technique and the rasengan. But unlike Kaseri, the wind blades on Rasensbricken affect on a molecular level and like small needles tear the chakra channels. And rasengan concentration increases the speed and number of these needles. I wonder what would have happened to Gaara if Naruto had hit him instead of the belly of that golden raccoon.

Minato even began to imagine such an outrage.

Minato... Really, this is no joke.

Tsunade... Even if anyone survives the technique, it's unlikely that they'll remain a shinobi. After all, if the chakras all over his body were severed, he wouldn't be able to recover even until his demise. Anyway, I suggest you write this technique down in your scrolls and declare it strictly forbidden. Good at least Naruto's regeneration is abnormal and his chakra channels will be restored soon.

Minato looked up with determination.

Minato... I was already thinking of banning it.

Tsunade... But you'll be the one to talk to Naruto about it!

Minato... All right. (chuckles)

Minato stood up from his chair and before he left, he looked at Tsunade with eyes full of gratitude.

Minato... Thank you, Tsunade herself!

As soon as Tsunade was alone, one thought gnawed at her.

Tsunade's thoughts... He's strangely protective of Naruto, and Kushina is far from indifferent to him. All right, we gotta get ready for Lee's surgery.

Minato pondered over many things on the way and looked into the room through the window and saw his son in an extremely poor state. Plasters in two limbs and bandages all over his body. But even still, Naruto was calmly reading his favorite book on a coaster. He walked into the room and slammed the door to get his son's attention. Naruto turned away from the book and was mentally prepared for anything the hokage would unleash on him. After all, he did a lot of rash things in this fight. Minato decided not to press him yet, as he knew from experience that it was a bad idea and decided to relax a bit and remove myself from bad thoughts.

Minato... Hey Naruto-kun, how are you feeling?

Naruto was surprised at this start to the conversation, for he had expected the hokage to begin with a long lecture, and he was left to grin stupidly.

Naruto... Uh, okay, well, thank you for worrying about me.

Minato jumped at such a remark.

Minato... How could I not be worried about you, you've done so much at this tournament. But come on, I'm here to talk about him.

Minato sat down in a chair and turned to face his son.

Naruto... Hokage herself, I'll explain everything.

Minato raised his palm so as not to be interrupted and pulled out his notebook.

Minato... Let's start with the first point, you snuck under the henge and got a job as an arena builder, and don't argue, I know it was you Menma!

Naruto flinched at being exposed so quickly and gulped in fear.

Minato... Anyway, you did it to prepare the traps under the arena sand, lay it out!

Naruto had already realized he was in for a big one, and with a sigh of annoyance, he decided to come clean.

Naruto... Hokage herself, that's right, I snuck into the arena and used the magnet to search for groundwater, I've been noticing it ever since I defeated Neji. And the fact that there was a river running nearby, on the principle of geography, there must be quite a few of them. I was digging up the sand, pretending to strengthen the soil. And having found the necessary deposits of ground water, he began to mine them with explosion seals and buried them back with solid rock and at the explosion and pressure of solid soil it should pour a fountain of dattebayo.

Minato's thoughts... Wow, and he has a great knowledge of hard rock, and his trap setting has gone to a new level, but.

Minato... Not a bad idea, but why would you throw a seal explosion if there were already mines there?

Naruto grinned stupidly rubbing the top of his head, but Minato understood without words.

Minato... Right, so you were hoping I wouldn't find out about the details of the flood. Oh, you're a naughty boy, but come on. You made a great strategic move depriving your opponent of his main weapon and didn't waste much chakra in the process. Still, such an action was a little too brazen.

Naruto... But you did not forbid the setting of traps in the arena.

Minato almost felt like slapping Silk on the forehead, but restrained himself.

Minato... Yeah, you're right about that, I just didn't think you'd do it that way. It doesn't matter though, second point. The fact that you changed the climate of the arena, I realize Gaara did a despicable thing by practically using his father's genome. Still, it was too risky. By the way, what were those strange seals on the kunai. It's not a seal explosion, I take it.

Naruto lowered his head in annoyance.

Naruto... Yes, they were napalm seals, they're very hard to get, and there are none left in the gimmick store. I hadn't thought of using them for any other tactic at all.

Minato... Whoa, you're not gonna tell me?

Naruto... I thought to use them to pierce Gaara's sand and when the fire started to ignite on the sand, I would intensify the fire with the wind and eventually his sand would turn into glass and encase Gaara in the glass. In this case, I wouldn't have wasted so many napalm seals. And the structure of gold is more fluid and he could use it again no matter how much I melted it down.

Minato... Wow, so you had a move for this one too!

Naruto... It goes like this...

Minato smiled good-naturedly.

Minato... I'm not here to tell you off. It's just that a lot of people have been struggling to figure out your strategy, and I just couldn't help but ask about it. Yeah and you two aren't weak to tearing up the arena, so don't worry about it. Yes and the arena was designed for tech and destruction.

Naruto breathed a sigh of relief that it was all over, but Minato now looked at his son sternly.

Minato... Naruto, I'm gonna have to ask you one thing, though.

Naruto... Uh, what's that?

Minato... Why didn't you tell me your new technique was hurting you?

Naruto lowered his eyes in contrition.

Naruto... Sorry, I didn't think to use it myself, it's just that I did so much for this fight and I needed to hold Gaara in place and make him use his magnetism to the max to get the lightning to strike him. And my other techniques wouldn't have the power to withstand the force of his spear.

Minato snorted at the confirmation of his hunch, and lowered his gaze as he prepared to deliver the disappointing news.

Minato. Naruto, it pains me to say this, but I need to make you promise not to use that technique again.

Naruto was of the same opinion, and decided to cheer his head up a bit.

Naruto... Hokage herself, I myself realize that such a technique is very dangerous and you're right, I shouldn't use it. Still, it's too strong and I could lose an arm from ignorance of its effects. And you know how I feel about forbidden techniques. I'm not ready for this technique yet.

Minato listening to his son's answer was grateful to all the gods that his son was understanding in such matters. Minato rubbed his son's head and smiled complacently.

Minato... I'm glad you understand! Now let's get to the main point, you did a great job today. Congratulations on winning the chunin exam tournament finals!

Naruto... Thank you Hokage herself.

Minato pulled away from him and stood up to his full height.

Minato... Well, I wish you a speedy recovery!

Naruto saluted with the words.

Naruto... Don't worry about it, my dad was an Uzumaki, so I'll be fine in no time!

Minato flinched at that answer and almost dropped his notebook, but he pulled himself together and smiled forcefully.

Minato... You never thought about your father before, why should I?

Naruto put the book away on the nightstand and looked at the hokage with a smile.

Naruto... I don't know why, but when Gaara was saved by his father and after his confession he said he was proud of him. I wish someone would come up to me after my successes and tell me. "I'm proud of you, son." They may be silly dreams, but they're still dreams.

At the last moment Naruto almost let tears fall at his words, but Minato himself was eager to fulfill his son's dream. But pulling himself together and biting his lip, he gaped for all he was worth.

Minato... Don't worry about it, I think your parents are proud enough.

After those words, Minato left the room and glanced through the window, though it pained him to see his son in this position. However, he couldn't help but be pleased with his accomplishments. But still another thought gnawed at him.

Minato's thoughts... Naruto, you admitted to everyone that you're a jinchuriki. It was your secret and only you had the right to reveal it. I hope it doesn't make things worse, but you did realize the risks of your actions. Okay, I'll take care of it myself at the clan meeting.

After these thoughts, he was angry that his son thought of another man as his father. But there was nothing he could do yet.

Minato's thoughts... So this is what Jiraiya sensei meant, Naruto considers his parents to be completely different people. It's annoying sometimes, but I can't help it. I didn't want to think of him as my son myself, he deserved it.

In the evening of the same day, Kushina entered the ward with a bag of oranges and seeing her son's condition, mentally yelled. Naruto was trying to peel oranges with his left hand, but he noticed the guest.

Naruto... Oh, Kushina san, good evening.

Kushina pushed the unwelcome thoughts away and sat down on the chair beside Naruto.

Kushina... Good evening Naruto-kun, how are you feeling?

Naruto... Nice dantebayo!

Kushina was busily examining her injured son and noticed that some of the cuts were beginning to fade. But noticing her unsuccessful efforts at peeling oranges, she took one fruit and began peeling it with a knife.

Kushina... I see you're on the mend.

Naruto... Yeah, well, I heal well, I'm lucky I have good genes.

Kushina bridled at those words and ruffled her hair.

Kushina's thoughts... You're welcome.

Naruto... I hope to be discharged soon so I can get back to the workaday routine of datebayo.

Kushina cut off a piece of orange and held it out to her son directly into his mouth.

Kushina... Rest assured, and if you eat well, you'll recover even faster.

Naruto... Shpashibo.

Kushina jumped with laughter at her son talking with his mouth full.

Kushina... Even though it was a very frustrating fight for you. I'm glad you were able to win.

Naruto finished his orange and smiled complacently.

Nauto... Thank you Kushina san, I think Maya chan would appreciate you worrying about me dattebayo!

Kushina received a sort of prick in her heart, but not wanting to give her son away she smiled through the force.

Kushina... Have any of your friends visited you yet?

Naruto... Shisui said Sasuke would come by tomorrow since they had some kind of ceremony at the clan. And Shikamaru said they were supposed to go trim the deer today.

Kushina... What about the others?

Naruto lowered his head slightly at this point.

Naruto... I don't think anyone's gonna call me their friend now that I've said that. I've already told them all that I'm a jinchuriki.

Kushina was once again struck in the heart by such a reply and could not utter a word. But pulling herself together, she took her son's hands in hers.

Kushina... Don't think bad thoughts, you still did a very brave thing by admitting it.

Naruto was still the same scowl and struggled to squeeze those words out.

Naruto... How difficult it can be sometimes in this world of datebayo!

Kushina couldn't bear this mood slump and got up from her chair and opened the door where Inami stood behind her.

Kushina... Perhaps you're wrong, Naruto-kun!

Naruto was dumbfounded by such a guest and just couldn't believe his eyes. Kushina decided to get out and walked off in the direction of the exit. Inami still stood still afraid to move, but pulling herself together she walked over to him with tearful eyes.

Inami... Naruto-kun, I wanted to apologize to you!

Naruto... Forgiveness?

Inami... Yeah, I'm sorry, I shouldn't have told you that.

Naruto lowered his own gaze with regret.

Naruto... Maybe you were right to be mad at me. I've kept a lot of things from you. I thought my secrets would keep you out of danger. And it turns out I built a wall of misunderstanding between us. I was prepared for you to hate me, but I couldn't let you torture yourself with questions.

Inami didn't understand why he was talking about his situation like that. She grabbed the blond man's hand and ducked her eyes against his and sobbed bitterly.

Inami... Naruto, stop thinking about others, why do you instead of hating me back. You're the opposite of taking care of me. That can make it hurt even more.

Naruto... I'm sorry, I told you, you're more than a friend to me.

She squeezed Naruto's hand with such force that the blond gritted his teeth, enduring the pain.

Inami... Naruto, I love you!

Naruto smiled at her and full of her gaze.

Naruto... You too, Inami, you're my favorite sister! I can't let you get hurt!

Inami mentally gritted her teeth.

Inami's thoughts... Nurse again, why is he so slow on these things, xoo!

Inami shook off the unwanted thoughts with all her might and smiled, though in her heart she wanted to throw up.

Inami... Did you have dinner tonight?

Naruto.. I was just about to.

Naruto started grabbing the stand with one hand and tried to reach the nightstand with the food. Inami, seeing his exertions, just smirked.

Inami... Let me help you.

She started pulling out tuna onigiri and brewing green tea for the patient. She did everything willingly and was happy, even though she had once again been denied love by her idol.

That same evening, Minato and Kushina were sitting at home in the kitchen after dinner drinking tea. They were enthusiastically discussing today's battle. But towards the end, they both had questions about recognizing their son and it was Kushina who voiced the first.

Kushina.. Minato, what do you think will happen to Naruto now that everyone knows he's a jinchuriki.

Minato took a sip of his drink and sighed in frustration.

Minato... I don't know, he certainly knew what he was getting into. But it's all his choice and the fact that the law against disclosure among the young didn't apply to him. It protected him from peer attacks in the first place.

Kushina slumped at the end.

Kushina... He's so brave, and we're afraid to tell him we're his parents.

Minato took another sip and took hold of his wife's hand.

Minato... Kushina, I want to confess to Naruto who his real parents are!

It almost made her break the mug.

Kushina... What, are you serious?

Minato lowered his gaze but mustered up the courage to look his wife straight in the eye.

Minato... Kushina, Naruto is right about something, sometimes secrets hit much worse than the truth. Sooner or later, he's going to find out about us anyway, no matter how much we try to hide it from him. It's better if we tell him ourselves.

Kushina pondered her husband's every word and couldn't disagree, but.

Kushina... Minato, perhaps you know as well as anyone how unpredictable Naruto is.

Minato placed the mug on the table and took both hands on his wife's arms.

Minato... This is very exciting for me too, so I need to take time and prepare him for this news.

Kushina couldn't believe what she was hearing.

Kushina... Minato, you're probably right... But why are you only starting to wonder now?

Minato thought back to some of the times he had spent with his son.

Minato... Kushina, you saw what happened to Gaara because Rasa was afraid to tell him the truth. But what if something worse happens to Naruto if we don't tell him the truth?

Kushina remembered Gaara's broken state and how at the sound of the rain he wanted his death at the hands of her son.

Kushina... You may be right, but how do you envision it?

Minato... It's too early to think about it, we need to prepare him for this truth.

Kushina... And how do you want to prepare him, for this truth?

Minato... We'll leave it at that for now. We'll figure something out eventually.

He decided afterward to dilute the pressurizing situation with sweet memories.

Minato... You know, today, when I raised his hand to Naruto to declare victory. I was happier than I'd ever been in my life.

Kushina frowned at such memories.

Kushina... You're lucky, you white-haired bastard, senior!

Minato was even taken aback by such a remark.

Minato... Honey?

Kushina... You can train him, he comes to you all the time to get assignments. And he sees me so rarely, and that's unless we meet by chance on the street.

Minato rubbed the back of his head with a silly grin.

Minato... I'm sorry, he's basically my subordinate. Yes and that way, I could prepare him for the truth if he's with me more often.

Kushina... And now he's a patient!

Kushin was like an electric shock and she started making plans.

Kushina... Right, a patient, because until his treatment is over, I can visit him as a doctor!

Minato... Uh, I think Tsunade is his own doctor.

Kushina... It's okay, I don't think she'll take offense, and don't forget, he's my son. I have to prepare for our confession, too.

Minato frowned at the idea, but didn't argue, he'd get a kitchen appliance if he had to.

That same night, Naruto was lying on the bunk seat thinking about his situation when suddenly he felt a very familiar chakra. Grabbing the crutch he'd borrowed from Inami, he decided to go out to say hello. As he left the room, he noticed Lee in a depressed state. Naruto prayed to all the gods that he wouldn't reject him after his confession. He walked over to him Chroma on one crutch and sat down with him on the bench.

Naruto... Hey, goo-goo.

Lee looked at Naruto in bandages and casts and nearly dropped his jaw.

Lee... Naruto-kun, why did you leave the room? You just got delivered today!

Naruto was even taken aback by such concern and grinned stupidly.

Naruto... Uh, well, yeah, but you know it's not that important to me.

Lee heard the answer and raised his right thumb up.

Lee... Now that's the power of youth! By the way, you put up a very good fight today, I congratulate you!

Naruto... Hmm, thanks gustobrovik dattebayo.

At this point, Lee's enthusiasm ended and he once again jabbed at one point.

Naruto's thoughts... Wait, he said he was supposed to have surgery today.

Naruto... Gustobrowicz, are you worried about your upcoming surgery?

Lee... Yes, very excited, I've been preparing for it for two weeks and taking different pills. But still, it's a complicated surgery and Tsunade herself said there's very little chance of me getting back on my feet.

Naruto couldn't see the desperation in Lee's eyes and just put a healthy hand on his shoulder.

Naruto... Gustobrovik, your recovery depends not only on the doctors, but on yourself. If you get all worked up about yourself, your fears will come true dattebayo! Don't think bad thoughts, you'll get through this, I believe in you!

Lee, though not inflamed by such encouragement, smiled happily.

Lee... Thank you, Naruto-kun!

Naruto... No way!

Lee stood in front of him and waved his fist through the air.

Lee... Naruto-kun, I heard about your confession. I don't care if you are a biju carrier. You're still my friend and comrade in arms!

Naruto smiled at that acknowledgement and just nodded.

Naruto... Thank you!

Lee... Yosh, this is no time to be discouraged, we need to get some sleep before surgery!

Lee skipped briskly off to his room and Naruto was left with joy on his face. He tried to get up, but it didn't work so well. Sakura was walking down the halls in her medical uniform and when she noticed Naruto's struggles, she ran over to him with a worried look, grabbing him by the torso to keep him from falling.

Sakura... Balda, why did you leave the room, Tsunade herself forbade you to leave the room.

Naruto was almost taken aback when he saw his friend, but he pulled himself together and smiled.

Naruto... Sorry Sakura, I needed to stretch my legs a bit, or rather my foot.

Sakura sighed in frustration and began to stick to her partner as she walked. When she got to the room, she laid the one on the bunk and put the crutch aside.

Sakura... How are you feeling?

Naruto... That's better!

Sakura decided to start directly.

Sakura... By the way, Naruto, I wanted to tell you not to worry about what I think about you being a jinchuriki.

Naruto... А?

Sakura... I heard your confession as well as anyone. I think you were very brave to admit it.

Naruto lowered his eyes with annoyance.

Naruto... You think so?

Sakura... Not to say I was happy about the news, but still, you and I have been through so much. But no matter what happens, you're still my friend.

Naruto smiled blithely at hearing that phrase for the third time today.

Naruto... Thank you!

Sakura tucked the blanket behind him and went back to her own place. The next morning, Kushina was walking down the hall from Tsunade's office. Asking to be Naruto's attending physician wasn't that hard, as the sanin was preparing for surgery. At this time, the three Uchiha were sitting in the blonde's chamber, discussing about many things. There were congratulations and wishes for a speedy recovery. But then Itachi pulled out some special pills from his pouch and gave them to the blond.

Itachi... Here you go.

Naruto twirled in his hand and remembered those vomit pills Shisui and Itachi had choked on after surgeries in the land of snow.

Naruto... Uh, are they sure they're not expired?

Itachi... No, don't worry about that!

Naruto... Uh, maybe without that dattebayo, like ooh I'm pissed?

Shisui... No, Otto, these pills are just restoring the chakra channels. Yeah, and you mocked us when we were popping those pills, so...

Itachi... Sasuke, get some water!

The two of them grinned wickedly holding the blond man up, but Sasuke was quick to fetch a glass of water. Although Naruto fought back, he didn't stand a chance at that point. Naruto swallowed the pill and took a drink of water, then began to move his limbs convulsively and almost vomited.

Naruto... You're sadists, I'll pass out before these pills do!

All three of them tried to hold back laughter.

Shisui. Ototo, it's all for your own good.

Itachi... You're lucky you don't have to eat them for a month like we do.

Sasuke was no less interested in such a pill and took the jar of pills from Itachi's hands and held it up to his nose.

Sasuke... Ew, that's disgusting, they can torture people, not just cure them. Where'd you find that crap!

Itachi... Akemi!

That name dotted all the dots at that name Naruto boiled over.

Naruto... Duttebayo, even from so many miles away, will get me with his drugs.

Shisui signaled for attention.

Shisui... All right, we're off, and you, Naru, stay out of trouble. I filled your nightstand full of food, so I should have enough for a few days. And Itachi and I will be on a mission, so get bored, I brought you some books just in case.

Itachi... Get well!

Sasuke... Dobe, try not to have any adventures at the hospital!

Naruto was overjoyed at this support and extended a fist to everyone, to which they immediately responded. After the Uchiha left the room, they met up with Kushina along the corridor and said hello to her with a low bow. Shisui signaled not to wait for him and decided to have a word with Kushina.

Shisui... Kushina san, and Tsunade is at her own place?

Kushina... No, she's in the O.R. What do you need her for?

Shisui... I wanted to ask her about Naruto's condition and give her the pills.

Kushina was sometimes amazed at Shisui's overprotective attitude towards Naruto.

Kushina... Uh, you can ask me, since I'm already Nauto's attending physician. Tsunade herself would be busy all day today.

Shisui. Oh, well, if so, can you tell me Naruto's approximate condition?

Kushina began leafing through the labs and readily answered.

Kushina... His condition is stable and on the mend. That's in general terms, but in detail, I haven't examined him yet.

Shisui... Oh, okay, well, here you go.

Kushina twirled the jar of pills in his hand.

Kushina... What's this?

Shisui... These are pills to restore the chakra channels. These are homemade pills, I used to take them when I had a similar ailment. You should drink them three times a day, preferably half an hour before meals, or you may vomit.

Kushina... Vomit?

Shisui began to grin stupidly rubbing his temple.

Shisui... Uh, well, yeah, they just have a peculiar odor.

Kushina sniffed this resource of medicine and prepared to vomit up her breakfast.

Kushina... I wonder who cooked this crap.

Shisui knew how he'd react to his date's name and just decided to excuse himself.

Shisui... Well, it's an imported drug, they make them in the land of vegetables.

Kushina.. Ah, that's how it is.

Shisui... Yes, and it's advisable that you have this jar, since Naruto can just throw them away. Yeah, and make sure he drinks them. He's already had one pill just now, so he needs to take two more for today.

Kushina put into her robe and smiled.

Kushina... Okay, I'll keep an eye on it.

Shisui bowed in gratitude.

Shisui... Thank you for treating my brother. We'll be out of the village for a few days. Well, I gotta go, cause the guys are waiting for me. Please take care of him.

Kushina... All right, I'll do what I can.

Shisui left the scene of action, leaving Kushina with a good impression of him.

Kushina's thoughts... Ah, and I was mad at him because Naruto thinks he's his brother. Maternal jealousy, my ass. Well, let's get started.

She walked into the room and saw Naruto nonchalantly reading his books, but when she saw Kushina, he pulled away from the book.

Naruto... Kushina san, good morning!

Kushina... Good, Naruto-kun, Tsunade herself is busy right now, so I'll be your attending physician.

Naruto realized what she meant when she said Tsunade was busy.

Naruto... Kushina san, do you think the gooseberry will be okay dantebayo?

From such a question, Kushina decided to cheer up the blond man to take it easy.

Kushina... Don't worry about it, because Li Kun wasn't the only one preparing for the operation.

Naruto banished the unwelcome thoughts with a shake of his head.

Naruto... So, uh, let's get started. You wanted to check something with me?

Kushina came to her senses and stepped up close to the bunk.

Kushina... Let's start small, are you bothered by pain in your legs or arm?

Naruto moved some limbs and gave his answer.

Naruto... My legs seem to be better, but my arms are still sore.

Kushina began to drive on her leg and then on her arm with her mystical hand. During the examination process, she was increasingly surprised by the colossal damage, but she couldn't help but notice the abnormal regeneration.

Kushina... Okay, I think you're doing better than your test results yesterday. On my legs, the cracks in the bones are already healing, so you can take the cast off today or tomorrow. But about the arm, you're gonna have to be patient until things get back to normal. I'm going to do prophylactic treatment on the arms and legs of the bone treatment for now, so try not to fidget.

Naruto... Yes, Kushina san!

She smirked at the cheerful attitude and with a smile on her face began to treat the cracks in her bones.

Kushina... By the way, did you make up with Inami?

Naruto wasn't surprised at such a question.

Naruto... Of course, dattebayo!

Kushina... Good for you, take care of her, she's worried about you.

Naruto... Kushina san, she's like a sister to me!

Kushina frowned at this treatment of her.

Kushina's thoughts... Poor girl, though sonny is unlikely to start thinking about relationships.

Kushina... Well, I'm sure of you, you won't let her get hurt. Okay, that's enough procedure for today. I'll come by again before lunch, so you'd better eat now, but don't eat anything before lunch, okay?

Naruto... Okay, by the way, there's something I wanted to tell you!

Kushina... А?

Naruto smiled gratefully.

Naruto... I kept forgetting to say this, but you're the one who took Inami from the orphanage nine years ago, right?

Kushina remembered that incident and shuddered slightly.

Kushina... Yes!

Naruto... I wanted to thank you for taking her out of there and giving her a family. I'm so glad I met you in the park that winter.

Kushina began to boil at such gratitude and lowered her head.

Kushina... No need to thank you, though I was looking for you too. If I'd found you at the shelter, you'd have a family, too.

Naruto was surprised at such kindness, but he himself realized what a time it was back then. Naruto began habitually rubbing the back of his head with a silly grin.

Naruto... Thank you for your words dattebayo. But it would hardly have been possible then.

Kushina... Oh, what makes you think that?

Naruto... Well, hardly anyone would dare to adopt me dantebayo, and the time was not favorable for me then ...

Kushina even inwardly boiled up and tried to speak calmly.

Kushina... Well, we could have adopted you ourselves!

She bit her tongue to keep from blabbing too much, but the words came out of her. Naruto, on the other hand, was somewhat even flattered by such a statement.

Naruto... Kushina san, even though I wished for a family back then. But still, the whole village began to hate me. And I wouldn't want you and the Hokage to be looked at the same way I am. You're a kind woman, and I wouldn't want to inconvenience you.

Kushina listened to every word, almost sobbing inside and had to spike her thighs to keep from throwing a tantrum. She pulled herself together and ruffled the baby's hair.

Kushina... Well, let's not think about it. I'm gonna go check your labs.

Naruto... Okay, Kushina san, have a good job.

Kushina walked out of the room and went straight to her office. She went to her office, put up a barrier, took a sedative and took water, sat down at her desk and threw away all the things on the desk and sat behind her head sobbing with tears. Only now did she give vent to her emotions and began to think to herself.

Kushina's thoughts... Why, why, why didn't I just take him with me from that damn orphanage then? Why does he care for us more than we ever cared for him? Why does thanking him make it hurt more? Minato, I hope you thought it over before we confessed to him. Okay, I need to pull myself together, there's still time to clean up before lunch.

Naruto was still lying relaxed on his bunk at this time when suddenly the door opened and Neji, Tenten, Shikamaru, Ino, Choji, Karin, Miroku, Kiba, and Shino walked through it. Naruto was even wary of such a crowd.

Naruto... Hey, guys!

Shikamaru stepped forward rubbing his neck.

Shikamaru... How stressful, they're here to tell you something important.

Naruto... Uh, I'm all ears.

Neji stood next to Shikamaru.

Neji... Naruto, we all heard about your confession yesterday in the fight with Gaara. Maybe you were right to keep this secret from all of us. Let's be honest, I was shocked by the news myself, but I still don't think you're what the rest of the village thinks you are. After all, if I think like everyone else, I will once again bend to fate and live in an illusion.

Naruto... Uh, thanks for the revelation, Neji!

They exchanged a handshake and the rest of the group began to confess in the same script and tried not to humor and speak with a firm voice. After all the bravado, they all left the chamber except for Shikamaru.

Naruto... Shikamaru, thank you, you're the one who talked to them, right?

Shikamaru... Well, I had Sasuke's help, but still, that kind of truth doesn't come easily to everyone.

Naruto... That's right.

Shikamaru set up a stand and laid out the sega board.

Shikamaru... You don't mind passing the time with a game, do you?

Naruto... Of course I don't mind, it's boring as hell around here. And you'll be more fun to play this game with.

Shikamaru... I hope I win at least now.

Naruto... Hmm, it's not winning that matters, this game enhances datebayo's analytical skills!

Shikamaru... Eh, it's hard to argue with you, okay, here we go!

They started a game and during which Shikamaru often bit his elbows thinking about what the blond man's next move would be. After a few hours, Kushina had talked to her daughter, quieted the unwelcome thoughts, and was now heading for her son's room. What she saw through the glass couldn't help but surprise her. Shikamaru sat all lost, but smirked making a move and was already cheering.

Shikamaru... Check! You'll never get out of a trap like this.

Naruto with a calm face took the figure in his hands.

Naruto... Oh, I love it when the other side thinks they've won, but-

He placed a piece in front of the king.

Naruto.. Mate!

Shikamaru was ready to tear his hair out.

Shikamaru.. Shh, Naruto, you're impossible. I thought up these strategies specifically against you, and still never managed to win even one game.

Naruto... Well, unlucky datebayo. And it's time to call it a night, we're here.

Shikamaru only came to his senses now as he saw Kushina outside the window and began to gather the pieces back into the board. Kushina walked in leisurely with a folder in her hands.

Kushina... Oh, I see you're playing a game here, huh?

Naruto... Well, it's boring here, and games like this are good to pass the time daitebayo.

Shikamaru... Well, I'm off, hope for better luck next time.

Naruto... Bye.

Shikamaru took the segi with him and walked out of the office with a wave of his hand. Kushina was aware that Naruto's sega game was pretty good. But to beat the heir of the Nara clan in this game without losing a single game. It was something new to her.

Naruto... Kushina san, did you want to have the procedure done?

Kushina came to her senses and pulled those ill-fated pills out of her pocket and twirled them in her hand in front of her son. Naruto recognized those pills and started thinking bad thoughts.

Kushina... It's time to take your meds!

Naruto... Kushina san, didn't Shisui's brother give you this medicine by any chance datebayo?

Kushina... Yeah, that's right, he asked me to make sure you were taking your meds.

Nauto's Thoughts... Xoo, I came here to heal, not to be poisoned with drugs of unknown origin. Who knows where Akemi gets the ingredients for these drugs.

Naruto started to grin stupidly

Naruto... Okay, whatever you say.

He took one pill and batted his eyes.

Naruto... Okay, I'm gonna take this pill and go get some water.

He started to walk toward the door on his crutch, but Kushina stopped him by grabbing him by the scruff of his neck.

Kushina... Freeze, there's a pitcher of water on your nightstand.

Naruto was starting to cover me with goosebumps by now.

Naruto... Oh, yeah, that's right!

Kushina's thoughts... Shisui Kun was right, he's not going to eat those pills. Well, you'll take them anyway, my dear!

Naruto started to pour himself some water into a glass and turned to Kushina.

Naruto... I can take it from here. I think you have other things to do.

Kushina crossed her arms in a lock and looked sternly at her son.

Kushina... Drink up!

Naruto... Uh, can we do something without the pills?

Kushina shook her head.

Naruto... Why don't we make a deal?

Kushina's thoughts... What a pushy kid!

Kushina... Drink up, I said!

At that shout, the blond man popped the pill into his mouth and took a drink of water.

Kushina seeing her son's mournful state from the pill's disgust, mentally smiled inwardly.

Kushina... That's fine, see nothing bad happened...

Naruto... These pills are a hellish mixture of vomit and slop. Are you sure they haven't gone bad?

Kushina... No, I ran them through the lab, so don't worry.

Naruto just boiled up inside from such an argument.

Naruto... Not to worry, but how long should I drink this stuff?

Kushina... Three times a day until the chakra channels on your hand are restored!

Naruto's thoughts... Oh, I'm so screwed, I gotta get off these pills.

Naruto walked up to her and with a sly look in his eyes.

Naruto... All right, give me a jar, I'll drink them myself.

Kushina tucked the jar into her pocket and crossed her arms.

Kushina... Yeah, so you can throw them away?

Naruto waved her hand with a silly grin.

Naruto... Uh, I didn't even think about it, and you're not gonna give me three pills a day and make sure I take them.

Kushina... I will!

Naruto... But you've got other things to do at the hospital, what about the other patients who need your help?

Kushina's thoughts... Oh, you sing so well, you can't be blamed, but you've got the wrong one, my dear!

Kushina... Don't worry, I'll take care of them too! Now lie down and recuperate.

Naruto... All right!

Naruto pouted his lips and laid back on the bed. Kushina seeing the hurt state of the child tried to hold back her laughter.

Kushina's thoughts... Eh, he's such a kid when he's not being serious. I think I'll make the most of these days.

That same evening, Minato decided to stop by the hospital to see his wife. He went into her office, but she wasn't there. He asked one of the nurses and they said that Kushina was being examined by a patient, Naruto Uzumaki.

Minato's thoughts... Oh, I'll visit Naruto, too.

As he walked through the hallway, he spotted Hinata near the entrance of the chamber with a box in her hands. She noticed the hokage and bowed low to the ruler of the village.

Hinata.. Good evening, Hokage-sama!

Minato... Oh, Hinata, good evening, is there someone you wanted to visit?

The girl blushed thickly at such a question and began to avert her gaze.

Minato's thoughts... Uh, Kushina said that Hinata really likes my son. If she's so shy, she's going to him.

Minato ducked down looking into her eyes.

Minato... You wanted to go to Naruto's, didn't you?

She almost fainted from the question, but she pulled herself together and began nervously babbling words.

Hinata... Yaya, uh, you know. No, I wanted to ask Kushina san for something.

Minato's thoughts... Awww, so insecure, and it looks cute when she's so shy. How about this?

Minato... I'm sorry, I need Kushina urgently and I don't think she'll be free today!

Hinata looked at the box.

Hinata's Thoughts... Oh no, if she leaves, I won't be able to pass Naruto kun's onigiri through her.

Hinata... The Hokage herself!

Minato. Hmm?

Hinata... Uh, I was going to ask her to give this box and jar of ointment to Naruto-kun!

It cost her a lot not to stutter on every word, but Minato stood with a victorious smile.

Minato's thoughts... Bingo!

Minato... Uh, why don't you tell him yourself?

Hinata blushed even more and started to faint, but at the last moment she caught herself and stood up straight.

Hinata... Well, I'm, uh, I'm in a hurry. My dad told me not to stay out late.

Minato... Uh, well, if that's the case, I can give it to him.

Hinata rejoiced at the opportunity.

Hinata... Oh, really?

Minato... Yeah, well, it's no problem for me.

Hinata placed the ointment on top of the box and bowed and handed it to the ruler.

Hinata... Thank you, Hokage-sama, and also, forgive me. I have one more request.

Minato took the box of ointment.

Minato... Oh, which one?

Hinata began to touch her index finger nervously.

Hinata... Would you mind not telling Naruto-kun who the box and jar of ointment are from?

Minato smiled at this request and ruffled the girl's hair.

Minato's thoughts... Oh, it's already useless, Naruto must have sensed your chakra.

Minato... All right, I'll say it's from a friend.

Hinata smiled and bowed low and parachuted from her seat of action so that her heels were glistening. Minato couldn't even keep from laughing.

Minato's thoughts... She's cute, okay, time to go in.

Minato walked leisurely into the room where Kushina was running a mystical hand over Naruto's leg.

Minato... Kushina, Naruto, good evening.

Kushina... Oh, darling, hello!

Naruto... Hello Hokage-sama!

Minato... How's our patient, getting better?

Naruto... Sure, Kushina san, why don't you take off that cast?

Kushina.. I told you to wait until morning. You don't have all the cracks healed on your bone.

Naruto... But I'm not in any pain at all anymore!

Kushina couldn't help herself and just tapped her head.

Kushina... No, I said no!

Naruto began rubbing the bump on his head.

Naruto... Eteh, it hurts dattebayo, at this rate I'll be in the hospital for a long time!

Kushina... Don't argue with the doctor, or I'll put your other leg in a cast just to keep you out of the hallway.

Naruto put his hands forward for protection.

Naruto... Uh, all right, until the morning, then until the morning!

Kushina sighed in frustration, crossing her arms in a lock.

Kushina... What a persistent patient I've got.

Minato stood back to avoid being at the epicenter of his wife's anger and mentally smiled at their altercation.

Minato... Naruto, it's best you don't make her angry, because many people in the village call her the Bloody Habanero for a reason.

Naruto... Habanero?

Kushina even lifted her head up, but Naruto didn't blaze with such enthusiasm.

Naruto... Uh, okay, well, whatever you say.

Minato walked over to them and set down the box of ointment.

Minato... This is for you, from a friend.

Naruto looked closely at the ointment and his sense didn't lie.

Naruto... Isn't that Hinata by any chance? The jar of ointment looked familiar, and it was right outside the door.

Kushina's thoughts... Wow, I wish Inami hadn't broken up with her.

Minato's thoughts... Poor girl, they got her right away.

Minato... Uh, that's right, she asked me to give them to you.

Naruto... Ahhh, I see, even though she's weird, but thanks to her anyway!

Minato and Kushina were alarmed at such a statement.

Kushina... Why do you think she's weird?

Naruto... Uh, you know, she follows me around all the time. She's looking for something, and she followed me around with her Byakugan once. It's like a horror movie, it's creepy.

Minato and Kushina almost jumped at such a story.

Kushina... Maybe she just likes you.

Naruto waved his hands at such a remark.

Naruto... I don't think so, as soon as I see her, she faints.

The couple even whistled at the younger blond's words.

Minato... Wow, this is serious.

Kushina... What about Inami, you like her, right?

Naruto... Yeah, she's my favorite dantebayo sister.

The spouses made a facepalm at such a remark.

Kushina's thoughts... Oh, my God, at this rate, my son won't even get a girlfriend.

Minato's thoughts... Okay, I guess in time he'll figure these things out...

Naruto... Well, let's see what's in the box.

Naruto opened the box, but what he saw in there immediately sent shivers down his spine.

Naruto... What the...

The couple became concerned and immediately looked at the contents of the box. There lay an onigiri in the shape of Naruto's head. His hair was made of yellow rice, his eyes were made of blue plums, and there were tendrils of nori leaves along his necks. The hit was Naruto's fishcake. Minato took the creation in his hands, and Kushina even sniffed at the food.

Minato... Pretty original dish, and so much like you.

Kushina... Wow, she has a talent for cooking.

Naruto, on the other hand, was panicked and waved his arms.

Naruto... Are you serious, how can you eat something that looks like me?

Kushina made another facepalm.

Kushina... Ugh, Naruto, Hinata worked hard for you, and you... Girls are complicated and you can't hurt them.

Minato raised his index finger upward.

Minato... Yes, Naruto, my wife, is a prime example of that.

Kushina poked her elbow into her husband's side.

Kushina.. Somebody's gonna make a joke and he'll never get his dinner.

Minato... Uh, honey, it just came out of my mouth.

Kushina... Oh, right, of course, he blurted out.

Naruto seeing their altercation with Kushina clearly dominating, Naruto watched in amazement and towards the end couldn't help but laugh. The couple took their minds off their conversations and looked at their son. Naruto goggled at their gaze and began rubbing the back of his head guiltily.

Naruto... I'm sorry, I'm not used to seeing you guys like this, at home or something.

Minato... It's okay, it's always like this.

Kushina... Come on, you haven't eaten yet, so get your fill.

Naruto took the onigiri and dispelled the unsolicited thoughts and took a bite.

Naruto... Mm, delicious, by the way, help yourself. I can't eat that much anyway, and I don't even have room in my nightstand to put them in.

The spouses raised their hands in protest.

Kushina... No, we don't have to, we have dinner waiting at home.

Minato... Yeah, you sing better.

Naruto... Maybe you'll take a couple of them. I can't just throw them away.

From such an onslaught, the couple gave up and started crunching onigiri.

Kushina... Mm, it's really good, they're tuna.

Minato... Don't forget to thank her, she worked hard for you.

Naruto... Uh, well, uh, okay.

After such a small dinner, the couple still decided to take the onigiri home since Naruto really had nowhere to put it. Naruto put on his sleep cap, and Kushina began to cringe at the sight of her son. They stood at the door.

Kushina... Good night, I'll come back tomorrow morning.

Minato... Get well.

Kushina turned off the light and closed the door behind her. The couple walked through evening Konoha sighing at the fresh air.

Minato... What do you think of your patient?

Kushina... You know, he's polite, but when it comes to treatment, he's so cocky and dodgy. You don't know how hard I worked to get him to eat those pills.

Kushina waved a jar of pills, piquing Minato's interest.

Minato... Wow, that's weird, I don't usually see him like that.

Kushina... Yeah it's not just him, these pills are really disgusting in both taste and smell, take a sniff.

Kushina opened the lid swiping it under Minato's ear and he immediately cringed at the smell.

Minato... Honey, what kind of stinky drug is that? Where did you even get those?

Kushina... Shisui Kun gave them to me, he says they are good for chakra restoration.

Minato... Wow, and how, help.

Kushina... Oddly enough yes, since he only took those three pills. His chakro channels began to recover twice as fast. Except he's so damaged, it's scary to think about. By the way, how's that technique going, I hope you banned him from using it?

Minato... Yes, of course!

Kushina... I hope the two of you haven't named this technique yet?

Minato... Of course they did, except Jiraiya sensei didn't like the name for some reason and had to just call it Rassensuriken.

Kushina looked at her husband reproachfully.

Kushina... I'll tell you in confidence, nobody likes your names.

Minato lowered his head in offense, and Kushina slapped his shoulder with the palm of her hand.

Kushina... Eh, I wish you two would kick the habit, dattebane.

Kushina faltered and covered her mouth with the bag, but Minato was more than a little wary.

Minato... Duttebane? I haven't heard that word since Miroku was born.

Kushina... Minato, that's not good, looks like the word datebayo made me start saying datebane again, oops!

Minato took his wife's hand and smiled.

Minato... Don't say that in front of Naruto, or just tell him you picked up the habit from him.

Kushina lowered her head remembering today's conversation.

Kushina... Minato, remember when we were looking for Inami and his friend at orphanage number six?

Minato... Um, I think I remember, but it was a long time ago, and I don't think you found that boy...

Kushina sighed in frustration.

Kushina... Did you know that boy is Naruto?

Minato hearing such a question even almost fulfilled the onigiri bag.

Minato... Are you sure about this?

Kushina... Yeah, Inami told me, and Naruto confirmed it today.

Minato... Oh my god, are you telling me Naruto was hiding from us at such a young age himself?

Kushina... He was hiding from everyone, you realize he'd given up on us even then. He knew no one would adopt him and even at that moment he didn't want to have a family just so he wouldn't be a burden to them.

Minato saw Kushina start to shudder at his words.

Minato... Kushina, it's my fault too, I could have taken him from the orphanage too.

Kushina... Believe me, he wouldn't have even agreed to be an adopted son anyway. We've lost him since we dumped him in that neonatal ward! He only recognizes as family those who have been with him since birth. I sometimes think he knows about us, except he's just got it in his brain that we're not his parents and can't be.

Minato seeing the hysteria in his wife's eyes decided to tell a fact, hoping she would calm down.

Minato... No, he doesn't know...

Kushina... What makes you think that?

Minato... At least he's trying not to be interested in his parents. But still thinks his father is a member of the Uzumaki clan. I think he decided to do it just because of the last name.

Kushina was shocked at such an admission.

Kushina... What about the mother?

Minato... Honey, let's go to my office, it's classified.

He and his wife moved into the study and sat down at the desk.

Minato... As for his mother, he thinks she was a civilian with blond hair that he inherited from her. And statistically, many children inherit, 70 percent of their mother's genes.

Kushina wilted at such news, but still pulled herself together.

Kushina... That's how it is. But this way it will be harder for him to accept the truth.

Minato... You think so?

Kushina... I'm sure of it!

Minato... Then we need more time to tell him who we are to him.

Kushina... Maybe we should just go home. Today was a long day.

Kushina was kind of pissed that Naruto thought Naruto was the mother of someone else entirely, but she couldn't do anything about it. Kushina had given a lot of thought to her life and decided, by all means, to take care of him. Getting out of bed early, she picked up books with an exciting plot. After all, she had been to Naruto's house before and knew roughly his tastes. The next morning, Naruto woke up and he was overcome with nostalgia. After all, it was the first time he had ever been so calm in a hospital without getting contemptuous looks from the medical staff. And the medical staff consisted mostly of his acquaintances. Seeing the bright walls of the ward and the cozy atmosphere, he began to remember the time he had spent with May. He even thought she was about to walk in with books in her hands and say hello to him. But then the lock in the room clicked and he pretended to fall asleep, out of childish habit, to play a prank on whoever was coming. After all, he often teased Maya like that to cheer her up. But when the door opened, there was Kushina standing in the room with books in her hands. He caught a glimpse of deja vu, but he wasn't backing down from his goals. But Kushina, seeing his son sleeping sweetly in bed, began to approach leisurely. She admired the sweet sniffle and decided to stroke her cheeks, but as soon as she wanted to touch her cheeks, she got a poke in the stomach.

Naruto... Boo!

Kushina was startled by the blond man's actions, but when she saw the blond man's snide face, she realized that he was just playing a prank on her.

Kushina... Wow, so that's what we are, how about this?

She started whispering to the blond man, who in turn began to pant with laughter.

Naruto... I'm sorry, I didn't mean to, ouch, stop it, I'm ticklish.

Kushina guffawed and stopped whispering, and Naruto rose a little higher.

Naruto... Sorry, childish habit. It's just that I used to make fun of Maya Chan a lot. She'd come in sleepy in the morning, so that's how I'd cheer her up.

Kushina was glad that Naruto was beginning to see her more closely already.

Kushina... Thanks, you cheered me up, by the way, I brought you some books I think you'll like.

Naruto felt another deja vu, as Maya often brought books to him, so that he wouldn't be bored in the hospital, and even a few tears came to his eyes as he looked at the silver pendant. Kushina seeing this confusion grabbed the blond's forehead.

Kushina... What's wrong?

Naruto raised happy eyes with specks of tears.

Naruto... Nothing, just a childhood memory...

Kushina took a seat on the bunk and decided to inquire about this case.

Kushina... I can see you cherish those memories very much.

Naruto... You bet, it was the best time of my life.

Kushina... Care to share? It's gonna take a few minutes anyway.

Naruto twirled a finger at his chin.

Naruto... Eh, nothing to do...

Naruto began a story about how he and Maya played in the ward and how she taught him to walk and talk and even read. Kushina listened to the story and was surprised that Naruto remembered these moments.

Kushina's thoughts... Eh, that girl should have been me! How I wish I could have seen live, the way he grew up and spoke his first words. And he speaks so fondly of her, I wish he could look at me the same way. Eh dreams dreams dreams dreams dreams.

Kushina... That's a great story. Well, your leg cracks have healed, I think you can take it off.

Naruto threw his hands up in the air with glee.

Naruto... Yay, I can finally walk!

Kushina... But after you take these pills.

Naruto... Again?

Kushina... Not again, but again, drink up, or I'll never get the cast off!

Naruto... Uh, okay...

Naruto clutched his nose this time and drank those pills in a volley. Kushina began to cut the cast and when she was done, Naruto almost jumped up from the bed and was immediately hit in the head.

At this time Tsunade was walking around all shocked, for she had some suspicions, but practicality played its part and she had to double-check her hunches. Taking the results from the labs, she searched for the person she needed, but didn't find one on site. She walked into Naruto's room.

Tsunade... Good morning, Naruto, Kushina!

Kushina.. Morning!

Naruto approached her excitedly.

Naruto... Granny Tsunade, how did the gustobrower surgery go?

Tsunade... Great, he's on the mend now.

Naruto breathed a sigh of relief, but here was Tsunade in a stern voice.

Tsunade... Kushina, get to my office right away!

Kushina... Uh, okay...

Naruto stayed glaring at the two ladies who were getting along. Tsunade was silent, which frightened Kushina. Tsunade opened the door and when they both walked in.

Tsunade... Put up the barrier, it's an emergency!

Kushina faltered at such a stern voice, but picked herself up and put up a barrier. Tsunade sat down at the table and pulled out three test forms.

Tsunade... Kushina, take a look at these forms!

Kushina picked up one of the forms, and there it was.

DNK test, Naruto Uzumaki and Minato Namikaze, 97 percent similarity. Naruto Uzumaki and Kushina Namikaze, 97 percent similarity.

Kushina read all of this and looked at the other forms that had the same results. She looked fearfully at Tsunade, who had her fingers crossed under her chin.

Tsunade.. Kushina, what do you mean? Such similarities happen on occasion, parent and child!

Kushina sat down at the court across from the sanin and lowered her gaze.

Kushina... Tsunade herself, does anyone else know about this?

Tsunade... No, I did these tests in person! You and Minato were hanging around Naruto's room yesterday. Answer me this, why does Naruto think his parents are completely different non-existent people? After all, the male member of the Uzumaki clan wasn't even here!

Kushina... Yes, it's true, Naruto is our son!

Tsunade seeing the woman's downcast look, poured a glass of water and threw a sedative in it and set it in front of Kushina.

Tsunade... Kushina, I don't think you can tell this story quietly..

Kushina took the glass and drank a few sips to begin her story. Tsunade though was surprised at the history of Naruto's relationship with the Namikaze family. But still she had to renew the sedative as Kushina, was ready to sob after every sentence. Toward the end of the story, Tsunade simply leaned back in her chair and stretched.

Tsunade... What can I say, well done you, Minato has been depressed for all 11 years of his life. Though what can I say about depression...

Kushina was surprised that Tsunade was calm about the story, but her next suggestion.

Tsunade... I'd like to smack you both, but I see life punishes you well enough without me. It's ironic that you yourself didn't recognize Naruto as your child before. And now Naruto doesn't recognize you as parents. But are you sure you want to tell him?

Kushina... Yeah, we're afraid something worse might happen to Naruto than if we keep things from him.

Tsunade raised her left eyebrow skeptically.

Tsunade... He might be able to survive the truth. Are you willing to go through what he's gonna say to you after that?

Tsunade knew all too well about the younger blond's headbutt and simply couldn't imagine the shock he could provide them.

Kushina... No, but it doesn't matter, and if he tells us. It will be deserved and fair.

Tsunade... Well, that's your choice, I won't feel sorry for you. But the fact that you and Minato are hanging around him, do you think you'll soften his anger?

Kushina... Yeah, so the rest of us don't get hurt.

Tsunade sipped her glass of sedative and got up from her seat.

Tsunade... I'm not getting into your family business, but I still think these tests should be burned.

Tsunade, though disappointed in the two spouses, was still glad that they had decided to come clean on their own.

Kushina... Yes, it's up to us to tell them. You can leave one for me though, Naruto might not believe it.

Tsunade handed over one leaf and burned the rest. The two women rose from their chair, but then someone started breaking into their office. Kushina tucked the sheet into her pocket and then removed the barrier. A concerned nurse burst into the office.

Nurse... Tsunade herself, Kushina san, Naruto Uzumaki is missing from the hospital!

Tsunade made a hand face and Kushina was misunderstood and both ran to Naruto's room. When they entered the room, they saw a note under the window. Kushina picked up the note with a start and began to read aloud.

Kushina... Don't worry, I'll be right there.

Tsunade... What a little parasite, Shisui had warned him that Naruto had a habit of running away from the hospital!

Kushina was furious and crumpled the note in her hand, then turned to the nurse.

Kushina... Get a medical team together now, we need to find this fugitive!

Tsunade shook her head.

Tsunade... You shouldn't have taken his cast off after all. Well, as long as he's your patient. You'll decide what to do with him!

Kushina started beating her palm with her fist.

Kushina... I'm his-

Tsunade... Kushina!

Kushina... Hmm?

Tsunade... I won't be at the hospital. I know you don't like the Chief of Medicine. Still, sit in my seat for a week, if anything, Shizune will prompt everything.

Kushina was uncomprehending, and gave him a questioning look.

Kushina... Tsunade herself, is it an emergency?

Tsunade... Yeah, and it's secret!

Kushina... All right, I'll do my best! In the meantime, we've got to find this brat!

Tsunade smirked at the whole situation and went about her business.

A few minutes before, Naruto was at full speed jumping across the rooftops, almost flying into Ichiraku, where Inami, Teuchi, and Ayame were already there.

Teuchi... Oh, Naruto, how are you?

Naruto... Great, already going for the dattebayo recovery!

Ayame... Congrats on winning the finals, Naruto kun!

Naruto... Thank you, Ayame chan!

Inami was uncomprehending and just helped with her eyes.

Inami... Naruto, have you been released from the hospital yet?

The blond began to grin stupidly and rub the back of his head.

Naruto... Actually, no, I just canceled...

The girl shifted her eyebrow incredulously.

Inami... Are you sure about that, usually no one gets discharged in such a small time frame, especially with your injuries...

Naruto... Well, I got an exception, especially since I missed the dantebayo ramen!

Teuchi... Wow, that's it, then sit down, as the winner of the finals, any order you want is on the house!

Naruto's eyes sparkled at such a gift and sat down at the counter.

Naruto... Man, you're the best, pour me your best dantebayo ramen!

Teuchi didn't take long to pour a cup of ramen and placed it beside Naruto.

Teuchi... Whatever you say, here, it's just about to get hot, enjoy!

Naruto... Wow, ittada kimas!

He missed that flavor so much that he ran here, even in his pajamas, jumping across the rooftops. Naruto broke the stick with his teeth and began to eat with his left hand since his right was in a cast. The sticks were slipping from his fingers, and Inami smirked softly as he grabbed new sticks.

Inami... Naru, let me feed you, you're no good with your left anyway!

Naruto was very excited about such an undertaking.

Naruto... Wow, thanks Inami chan, you are a true friend, dattebayo!

Inami started feeding the blond with a happy smile and even wiped her splotched necks with a napkin. Naruto sipped the remaining broth and sighed voluptuously.

Naruto... Wah, man, your ramen is unbeatable as always!

Teuchi decided to give the blond man a treat and for Naruto winning the finals.

Teuchi... All the best for a loyal customer. You've made a splash in the arena, everyone's talking about your victory.

Naruto was alarmed at such a statement.

Naruto... All of them?

Teuchi... Exactly, so don't worry and eat all you can!

Naruto smiled at that suggestion. Inami, on the other hand, had her own assumptions on the subject.

Inami's thoughts... Hopefully after that statement, Naruto will be treated more friendly.

As Inami prepared to feed Naruto a second serving of noodles, Naruto felt as if he'd been electrocuted, just like herself. Behind them stood an elated Kushina with a squad of medics.

Kushina... Oh, there you are. I thought you were on an important case, escaping from the hospital. You're here, aren't you?

Naruto turned his head jerkily.

Naruto... Kushina san, I'll explain everything.

Inami was at a loss for understanding from her statement.

Inami... Sensei, Naruto-kun, said he asked you to leave!

Kushina was even angrier.

Kushina... You little brat, how dare you deceive Inami!

Naruto... Uh, well, I, uh.

Inami was just as angry as Kushina and grabbed the blond by the collar.

Inami... Naruto, asshole, you promised you wouldn't lie anymore!

Naruto... It wasn't a lie, but rather a preuchelation of datebayo!

Kushina shook her head and instructed the medical team.

Kushina... I'll take it from here, you can go!

... Bingo!

Inami took the blond man by the scruff of his neck and pulled him along.

Naruto... Inami chan, what are you doing?

Inami... I'm taking you back to the hospital!

Naruto... But, I haven't finished...

Inami... So you're not cured.

Naruto... Old man, save this portion for me, I'll come back later and finish it!

Kushina, seeing Inami dragging Naruto behind her, couldn't help but laugh. The owner of the diner, on the other hand, just looked at it with humor.

Teuchi... He'll never change.

Kushina... That's for sure... By the way, can you put the ramen with you, I'll take it to his room?

Teuchi... Sure, just a minute!

A few minutes later, Kushina caught up to the two couples with a bag in her hands. Naruto had talked Inami into letting him go, but still got a couple of smacks from her for lying. Kushina seeing this couple almost made her nostalgic. Where he and Minato used to walk around the village like that when they were kids. Naruto, in turn, noticed some changes in the eyes of the residents. Although many people looked away, there was no hatred in their eyes. More like remorse and shame. That look didn't escape Kushina and Inami either.

Kushina's thoughts... So Naruto's words were having an effect. Xoo, this is something we should have done a long time ago.

While Kushina discreetly chided herself, Naruto began to wonder at these looks little by little.

Naruto's thoughts... They're not repenting.

A few meters later, small children came upon them gleefully.

1... That's Naruto san, the most unpredictable ninja of the leaf village!

2... Naruto san, you are a very cool ninja!

3... Naruto san, can you autograph this?

4... You're welcome!

Naruto was even taken aback by their statement and grinning stupidly raised his right arm with a cast.

Naruto... Sorry, kids, some other time.

All the kids, though upset, still decided not to bother with the question.

2... Naruto san, when I grow up, I want to be as cool as you!

Naruto ruffled the boy's hair.

Naruto... If you have the will to win, you will succeed.

2... Thank you, Naruto san!

Kushina, seeing how the little kids regarded his son as a super hero, began to smile and be enthusiastically proud of him.

One of the boys looked at Inami with a cheerful look.

5... Naruto san, is she your girlfriend? She's beautiful!

Inami blushed, but here Naruto waved a finger.

Naruto... Well, not a girlfriend, just someone very close to me and my best friend.

Inami was already over the moon wandering through her rosy dreams, but those dreams were shattered by the blond man's comment.

Inami's thoughts... What an asshole, you could have at least not answered.

Inami grabbed the blond man's ear.

Inami... Come on, we're in a hurry!

Naruto... Ai ai ai ai, that hurts Inami chan!

Kushina once again made a facepalm muttering under her breath.

Kushina... What an asshole, I told you not to hurt her!

When all three of them returned to the room, Kushina and Inami began a long conversation about not running away from the hospital without permission. Naruto from such a head-scratcher, just tried to be anywhere but here and answer yes to all the questions.

Kushina... I hope you won't run away from the hospital again.

Naruto... Yes.

Kushina... Yeah what?

Naruto... Yes! Wait, what was the question?

Such carelessness made Kushina even more angry and just slapped her with a smack.

Kushina... That's it, it's useless!

Inami... Naruto, you're a jerk!

Kushina erected a tracking barrier on the ward, then glared menacingly at the blond man.

Kushina... If I feel you've escaped from the hospital, I'll break your legs, do I make myself clear?

Naruto started to wince and nod his head vigorously at that tone.

Naruto... Okay, Kushina san, there's a Kushina san dattebayo...

Kushina stretched her limbs and turned to Inami.

Kushina... Inami, could you keep an eye on him, please?

Inami just crunched her fingers from such prosody with a sinister grin.

Inami... No problem, Sensei!

Kushina... All right, well, I'm off.

That same evening, Hiruzen was walking the corridors of the hospital with unkind thoughts. He's already decided everything for himself, but he has to come clean about his scheme. As he approached Naruto's room, he sighed in frustration and then opened the door. Naruto was lying in the palette and Inami was sitting next to him, peeling apples for a patient. Seeing them chatting about all sorts of things, he began to remember their childhood in the orphanage.

Hiruzen's thoughts... How these two have grown up.

Hiruzen... Good evening, children!

Naruto... Grandpa?

Inami... Third yourself, how are you?

Hiruzen decided to ease the tension a bit.

Hiruzen... Well done, Inami chan, I see you care about Naruto.

Inami looked at the blond man reproachfully.

Inami... More like following him! The third one himself, you can imagine, he escaped from the hospital today without authorization.

Hiruzen saw Naruto smirk guiltily, and a little bit of laughter came over his face.

Hiruzen... Naru, you're as usual... Inami chan, will you give us some privacy, I wanted to talk to Naruto about something?

Inami... Oh, of course, I had to go in for tests anyway.

When she left the room, Hiruzen sat down next to Naruto on the bunk.

Hiruzen... Ah, I remember you two running around my library.

Naruto... That's right, Grandpa, even though times were tough back then. But still, there was less to worry about.

Hiruzen had put up a wiretap barrier and Naruto noticed it and became alarmed.

Naruto... Grandpa?

Hiruzen sighed in frustration and looked down.

Hiruzen... Naru, I need to have a serious talk with you.

Naruto... About what?

Hiruzen... I decided to correct my mistakes.

Naruto... Mistakes?

Hiruzen... Yes.

Naruto... Grandpa, what's your point?

Hiruzen... I want to kill Orochimaru!

Naruto had already realized the extent of his grandfather's depression.

Naruto... Erosanin told me you couldn't kill him last time. I know it wasn't easy for you, but can't someone else do it?

Hiruzen... No, I have to do it! He was my apprentice, I taught him a lot of things. His crimes are just as much to my credit.

Hiruzen was mortified, but he decided not to back down from his own. Naruto as he listened to the speech began to remember the snake sled's peculiarity.

Naruto... Grandpa, but how are you going to kill him. I mean, he's practically immortal.

Hiruzen... A shell without a soul is useless!

That exclamation puzzled the blond even more.

Naruto... You want to rip out his soul, but what technique can do that?

Hiruzen tried not to make eye contact with his grandson and just poked the blond's stomach. Naruto, realizing the old man's intent, began to wince.

Naruto... Printing eight elements? But it's a forbidden technique, I've heard that to use it, you need the soul of the...

Naruto jumped up from his seat and looked at the old man with dazed eyes.

Naruto... Grandpa, do you want to kill Orochimaru at the cost of your life?

Hiruzen looking into those sad and full of despair eyes, just couldn't speak.

Naruto... Grandpa, please come to your senses, Orochimaru isn't worth it!

Naruto not seeing a reaction from the old man, just snickered trying to stir the thoughts in his head. Hiruzen has pulled himself together.

Hiruzen... You're right, he's not worth it, but if I let it go. Then Orochimaru will continue to torture people and let them experiment on them. These innocent people are worth my sacrifice!

Naruto agreed with that argument, but he didn't want to let this man go so easily.

Naruto... But what about those who need you? Konohamaru, Asuma san, Shisui's brother, me after all?

Hiruzen placed a hand on the blond man's shoulder.

Hiruzen... Konohamaru, Asuma, Shisui, you. You're all new generation people, there's no point in shedding tears for me. I should have retired a long time ago.

Naruto was beginning to panic at such suggestions.

Naruto... Gramps, but, uh.

Hiruzen cut off at the prluchlove with his suggestion.

Hiruzen... Naru, a few days ago I dreamt of Biwako, Kasaro, Maya, and all those who have left this world. I miss them and want to see them.

Naruto remembered the day the third grieved the loss of his son.

Naruto realized that nothing would stop the third from his goals now and simply lowered his gaze.

Naruto... Grandpa, why now?

Hiruzen saw Naruto trying not to show emotion.

Hiruzen... Naru, I've made a lot of mistakes in my life. Didn't help the village of Whirlpool, sent the children off to war. I couldn't leave this world amidst the pile of my mistakes and I don't want to leave her with regrets.

Naruto... Means that you visit shelters with charity and help the snow village. You...

Hiruzen... Yes, Naru, I try to salt away my sins with these actions. There is now one last mistake left to be corrected.

Naruto... But why did you tell me all this?

Hiruzen lowered his gaze with regret.

Hiruzen... Because I'm guilty before you, too!

Naruto was alarmed at such a statement.

Naruto... А?

Hiruzen... I promised you I'd bring you back Maya Chan alive. I promised that Inami wouldn't leave you and you'd be together. I promised you I wouldn't leave you. I haven't kept any of the promises I've made. I gave you so much responsibility, even though I knew it wouldn't be easy!

Naruto listening to this bravado began to clench his right fist, which was in a cast, to the point of pain.

Naruto... Grandpa!

Hiruzen... Hmm?

Naruto smiled blissfully through the force and placed his left hand on the old man's arms.

Naruto... Grandpa, I never blamed you, Maya lives on in my heart, Inami, though she's gone, she's still back in my life. You, Hiruzen Sarutobi, will also not die and will live on in my heart. Everyone makes mistakes, but few pay for them. You, the greatest shinobi of your generation and yours. When I become Hokage, the tale of you will spread throughout the world. The will of fire blazes in you just as it has in all those who have previously protected Konoha at the cost of their lives. You are a warrior, and for a warrior there is nothing better than to die on the battlefield, with a weapon in your hands dattebayo.

Hiruzen, listening to this bravado, started to get a little hot-headed, but then the cast on Naruto's arm started to crack and shatter. Naruto's hand began to be covered in wind chakra but the palm of his hand began to drip blood. Hiruzen remembered how Naruto had also clenched his fists to the point of blood when he sold out with Maya and Inami. Hiruzen recalled those memories and sighed in annoyance.

Hiruzen... Naru, we're human, let your emotions come out.

Naruto stood in prostration as his cast shattered from the uncontrollable element of wind that he let loose by clenching his right fist, but upon hearing his grandfather's admonition, simply threw himself into a hug and began to let tears flow.

Naruto... Grandpa, I have a favor to ask of you!

Hiruzen began stroking his back to calm the blond down.

Hiruzen... Naru, anything for you.

Naruto... When you meet Maya Chan, tell her that I haven't given up my goal of making the world a better place! I miss her very much and when my time comes, I will meet her, you, Kasaro san, Takeshi sensei too. I'll tell you everything I've accomplished in my life. Please tell them all not to worry about me and just believe in me dattebayo!

Hiruzen himself began to let tears fall from such prosody.

Hiruzen... You don't have to worry about that, I'll tell them all what a great shinobi you've grown into. But I have a favor to ask of you.

Naruto... Hmm?

Hiruzen... When I'm gone, take care of Konohamaru!

Naruto... I promise, Grandpa!

Hiruzen... Naru, you've accomplished so much in your short life. Your life doesn't end with these accomplishments. There are more challenges waiting for you in this world. Tell me what your ninja way is!

Naruto wiped his eyes, stood directly in front of him and put his right hand to his heart.

Naruto... Never give up and never back down from your words!

Hiruzen put a hand on his shoulder and smiled blissfully.

Hiruzen... Never give up and never back down from your words. This is the Naruto I know, rest assured you will achieve your goals. In the meantime, go to bed, you need to recover.

Naruto did as Hiruzen asked and laying down on the bed he closed his eyes. Hiruzen placed a hand on his forehead and began to flow soothing chakra to make the blond fall asleep. Afterward, the third covered the blanket and looked at the blond man who had fallen asleep.

Hiruzen's thoughts... Naru, you've really accomplished a lot. I've known you since you were born, and even then I knew you were destined to become the greatest shinobi in our village. But the whole world. Best of luck and remember your goal. I hope Minato keeps his promise and doesn't let you drown in darkness.

After these thoughts, he removed the barrier and walked out of the chamber where Inami approached her.

Inami... Third one myself, sorry it took so long.

Hiruzen... It's okay, Inami chan, can I ask you a favor?

Inami... Which service is the third one you're talking about?

Hiruzen... Naruto accidentally fell on his right arm, thus breaking the cast. I was able to calm him down and now he's asleep. Couldn't you just remove the cast shards and not disturb the patient's sleep?

Inami became flustered at such news and just made a facepalm.

Inami... What a clumsy bastard, all right, I'll do it!

Hiruzen put his arm around her shoulders and smiled.

Hiruzen... I wish you luck with him, Inami chan!

Inami was stinging with paint from this and began to babble nervously.

Inami... Third, what are you talking about?

The third one just waved his arms and walked off in the other direction. Inami regained her senses and went to the closet to get a broom. Hiruzen walked out of the hospital and started walking towards the direction of the village exit. Along the way, he watched as many of the residents waved at him and children gallivanted enthusiastically shouting his name. The third smiled happily looking at this idyll.

Hiruzen's thoughts... It wouldn't hurt to die to preserve that kind of life!

At the post he said goodbye to the postmen and walking a few meters from the gate he saw his two apprentices in their old gear that they had worn in the war. Both stood though frustrated, but determination burned in their eyes.

Jiraiya... Old man, you ready?

Hiruzen... Yes!

After saying that, Hiruzen pulled off his robe and exposed his equipment. Putting on his helmet he looked at his students.

Hiruzen... Jiraiya, Tsunade, let's go!

Jiraiya... Bingo!

Tsunade... It's about time!

They parachuted out of the village jumping through the trees, each of them finding this decision difficult. But they decided, once and for all, to end it.