Chapter 20: The calm before the storm

Hinata's heart raced as she addressed Naruto. She had hoped that he was nearby, and the satisfaction of seeing him after so long warmed her heart.

"I'm so glad to see you," Hinata said, her voice filled with relief.

"Me too," Naruto replied, his voice equally emotional. "I've missed you so much."

They stood there for a moment, simply taking in each other's presence. Naruto's eyes scanned her, making sure she was alright. "Are you okay? Are you safe?"

Hinata nodded. "Yes, I'm fine. How about you?"

"Doing great, just... you know, busy with everything going on," he said, scratching the back of his head. "I'm really glad you're here, Hinata."

They chatted for a few minutes, trying their best to stay composed despite the overwhelming urge to embrace each other. The camp was bustling with activity, and they knew they had to be cautious.

The pair found their conversation interrupted by the sound of Gaara clearing his throat. "I hate to interrupt your happy reunion but Naruto, we still have people to meet."

Hinata felt her mood sour with Gaara's words. "Oh, I understand. I don't want to keep you away from your duties, maybe we can talk later?" She asked Naruto, forcing a smile.

Naruto glanced around and lowered his voice. "Hey, Hinata, if you get some free time later, you should come by my tent. Sasuke and I are staying over there." He pointed towards a row of tents. "I'd love to catch up properly."

Hinata's cheeks flushed slightly and Naruto took notice, hurriedly thinking of something to say.

At that moment, Sasuke bowed his head, his hand on his forehead as he smiled to himself. "Naruto, you're already inviting visitors to our place? Are you really this starved for companionship?"

Hinata turned an even deeper shade of red, while Naruto spluttered, "Sasuke! It's not like that!"

Sasuke chuckled, clearly enjoying the moment. "Sure, sure. Just let me know when I need to vacate."

Hinata tried to hide her embarrassment, stammering, "I... I'll just come by later."

Sasuke gave her a teasing smile as he turned around to follow Gaara and his siblings. "I'll catch up with you later Hinata, but don't worry, I don't think we'll need a tent to ourselves for that."

Naruto shot him a glare but then turned back to Hinata, his expression softening. "Don't mind him. I'd still... really like to talk to you later."

"I'll be there," Hinata said, her voice steady despite the blush on her cheeks.

They bid each other farewell, and Hinata walked back to her residence, her heart fluttering. She was relieved and overjoyed to see Naruto well. As she made her way through the camp, she couldn't help but replay their conversation in her mind, feeling a warmth spread through her.

Once she reached her tent, she sat down, her thoughts racing. She was happy beyond words to see Naruto alive and well. Despite the war and the chaos around them, having him close brought her a sense of peace she hadn't felt in a long time.

Hinata made a mental note to visit him that night, eager to spend more time with him. She knew they had to be careful, but the opportunity to catch up and simply be with him was something she couldn't pass up especially with her time off drawing to a close very soon. As the evening drew closer, she felt a mixture of excitement and anticipation, looking forward to their meeting later that night.

Killer Bee and Yugito Nii moved silently through the dense forest, their footfalls barely making a sound on the moss-covered ground. The tension in the air was palpable, a clear sign that the camp they were approaching was abuzz with activity and preparation. As they emerged from the trees, the sprawling encampment came into view, a hive of shinobi preparing for the upcoming offensive.

The camp was situated in a clearing, with tents pitched in orderly rows and shinobi milling about, sharpening weapons, discussing strategies, and reinforcing fortifications. Bee and Yugito made their way through the bustling crowd, nodding to familiar faces and receiving respectful bows from others.

"Looks like everyone's on edge," Bee remarked, his voice low but steady.

Yugito nodded, her eyes scanning the camp. "It's understandable. This is going to be a major offensive. Everyone knows what's at stake."

They continued walking until they reached the commander's dugout, a makeshift command center constructed from wood and reinforced with earth. Two guards standing outside recognized them immediately and stepped aside, allowing them entry.

Inside, the atmosphere was tense but focused. Maps and charts covered the walls, and a large table in the center was strewn with various documents and tactical plans. At the head of the table stood Darui, the commander in charge of the operation. He looked up as they entered, his usually calm demeanor replaced by a steely determination.

"Bee, Yugito, glad you made it," Darui greeted them, motioning for them to join him at the table.

"Commander," Bee acknowledged with a respectful nod.

Darui wasted no time. "We've got a tough mission ahead. Our objective is to capture a sizable town in the Land of Wind. It's a crucial logistics hub for Suna, and taking it will severely cripple their supply lines."

He pointed to a map, highlighting the town's location and the surrounding terrain. "Yugito, you'll be serving with both the sabotage and assault units. Your first task is to infiltrate the enemy's defenses and harass their supply routes during the fighting. Depending on the flow of battle you'll also assist the main assault force."

Yugito listened intently, her face a mask of concentration. "Understood, Commander. I'll do what needs to be done."

Darui turned to Bee. "Your role is strictly on the front lines. Your task is to break through their defenses and lead the charge into the town. Your strength will be critical in overcoming their fortifications."

Bee nodded, his expression serious. "You can count on me. We'll get the job done."

Darui looked between the two of them. "This is a high-stakes operation. We expect heavy resistance. Be prepared for a tough fight. Dismissed."

Bee and Yugito saluted and exited the dugout, making their way back through the camp. The weight of the upcoming battle hung heavily over them, but they moved with purpose and resolve.

As they walked, Yugito glanced at Bee. "I've got to admit, I'm both nervous and excited about this."

Bee gave her a reassuring smile. "Hey, it's okay to feel that way. Just remember, you're one of the best. We've got this. And I'll be right there on the front lines, breaking down their defenses and supporting you however I can."

Yugito looked at him, her eyes reflecting a mix of determination and anxiety. "Thanks, Bee. It helps knowing you're there. We've fought together so many times, but this feels different."

Bee stopped walking and placed a hand on her shoulder. "It's a big mission, no doubt. But we've trained for this. We're ready. Just focus on what you need to do, and I'll do the same. Together, we'll come out on top."

Yugito nodded, taking a deep breath. "You're right. We'll make it through this. We always do."

Bee grinned, his confidence infectious. "That's the spirit. Now, let's get some rest. We'll need all our strength for what's coming."

They found a quiet spot on the outskirts of the camp and sat down, taking a moment to mentally prepare for the impending battle. The camaraderie and trust between them were unspoken but deeply felt, a bond forged through countless battles and shared experiences.

The night was calm, the sky above the camp dotted with countless stars. Hinata walked quietly through the rows of tents, her heart beating faster with each step. It had been too long since she had seen Naruto, and the anticipation of their reunion filled her with a mix of excitement and nervousness.

She finally reached the tent shared by Naruto and Sasuke. Taking a deep breath, she gathered her courage and approached. Just as she was about to lift the flap, Sasuke emerged from the tent, nearly bumping into her.

"Hinata," Sasuke said, raising an eyebrow. "What brings you here this late?"

Hinata blushed, feeling a bit self-conscious. "I… I wanted to see Naruto. Is he inside?"

Sasuke gave her a knowing look, a rare smile playing on his lips. "Yeah, he's resting. But I think he'd be happy to see you."

Hinata nodded, feeling her cheeks heat up even more. "Thank you, Sasuke."

Sasuke chuckled softly. "I'll take a walk, give you two some space. Just don't keep him up all night, okay?"

Hinata's blush deepened, and she managed a shy smile. "Stop being an idiot Sasuke."

With a playful smirk, Sasuke walked off into the night, leaving Hinata to gather her composure. She lifted the tent flap and stepped inside, her eyes quickly adjusting to the dim light.

Naruto was lying on his cot, staring up at the ceiling. When he heard the rustle of the tent flap, he turned his head and his eyes widened in surprise and delight.

"Hinata?" Naruto sat up quickly, a wide smile spreading across his face. "You're here!"

Hinata felt a rush of emotion as she moved closer, her heart swelling at the sight of him. "Naruto," she said, her voice trembling slightly. "I've missed you so much."

Naruto stood up and closed the distance between them in a few quick strides. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into a tight embrace. "I've missed you too, Hinata. Every single day."

They held each other for a long moment, the world outside fading away. Naruto pulled back slightly, his eyes searching hers. "Are you okay? How have you been?"

Hinata nodded, tears glistening in her eyes. "I'm fine, just tired. But seeing you makes everything better."

Naruto gently wiped away her tears with his thumb. "I'm so glad you're here."

They sat down together on Naruto's cot, their hands intertwined. Naruto couldn't stop smiling, the warmth of Hinata's presence filling him with a sense of peace he hadn't felt in a long time.

"How's everyone been?" Naruto asked softly, wanting to know everything.

Hinata sighed, resting her head on his shoulder. "Everyone is doing their best, but the war has taken its toll on all of us. We're all tired, but we keep pushing forward."

Naruto nodded, his expression serious. "I know it's hard. But we have to keep fighting, for everyone's sake."

Hinata looked up at him, her eyes filled with love and determination. "I know. And as long as I have you, I can face anything."

Naruto's heart swelled with emotion. He leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. "You're amazing, Hinata. I don't know what I'd do without you."

Hinata closed her eyes, savoring the moment. "I feel the same way, Naruto."

They sat in comfortable bliss for a while, simply enjoying each other's presence while they caught up on what had happened in their lives since they were separated. The bond between them was stronger than ever, forged through their shared struggles and deep affection.

About an hour later, Hinata sat on the edge of Naruto's bed, her fingers gently grazing the fabric of her shirt as she prepared to leave. The conversation with Naruto had been comforting, a balm to her weary soul, but she had to return to her lodging. She glanced at Naruto, who was looking at her with a mix of longing and sadness.

"I should be going," Hinata said softly, trying to muster the strength to stand. The last thing she wanted was to leave his side, but she didn't want to burden him with her presence.

Naruto's hand shot out, gently clasping hers. "Hinata, wait," he said, his voice almost a whisper. The vulnerability in his eyes struck her deeply. "Can you...stay a little longer? Please?"

The sincerity in his voice melted her resolve. She felt her heart swell with affection and a deep sense of longing. Naruto, usually so strong and confident, now seemed almost desperate to keep her close. It was a side of him she rarely saw, and it tugged at her heartstrings.

Naruto, realizing how his words might have sounded, quickly tried to backtrack. "I mean, if you have to go, I understand. I just...I just really enjoy having you here, that's all."

Hinata's mind flashed back to Sasuke's teasing earlier that night, his knowing smirk as he left the tent, giving them space. She remembered the warmth in Naruto's eyes when he spoke to her, the genuine affection that flowed between them.

She made up her mind. Gently placing a hand on Naruto's cheek, she leaned in and kissed him softly. "I'll stay," she whispered against his lips, her decision firm and her heart racing.

Naruto's eyes widened in surprise, but the joy that spread across his face was unmistakable. He pulled her into another kiss, this one deeper, more passionate. It was as if all the longing, the unspoken words, and the pent-up emotions of their separation were pouring out in that single moment.

Their kiss grew more intense, and before long, they found themselves lying on the bed, still locked in each other's embrace. Naruto's hands moved to caress her back, pulling her closer, as if he couldn't bear to let her go. Hinata's fingers tangled in his hair, her heart pounding in sync with his.

The world outside the tent faded away, leaving only the two of them in a cocoon of warmth and love. In that moment, nothing else mattered. They were together, and that was all they needed.

The moonlight filtered through the thin fabric of the tent, casting a soft, silver glow over Naruto and Hinata as they embraced each other. The world outside seemed distant and irrelevant in the quiet sanctuary they had created. The only sounds were their soft breaths and the occasional rustle of the canvas in the gentle breeze.

Naruto held Hinata close, his heart pounding not just from the exertion of the day but from the intensity of the moment. His hands were slightly trembling as they caressed her, feeling the warmth of her skin under his fingertips. The passion in their endearment spoke volumes more than words ever could.

Hinata responded eagerly, her hands threading through his hair, pulling him closer. The kiss was a promise, a declaration of their feelings that transcended words. Naruto's hands roamed gently over her body, learning its contours, his touch both tentative and reverent.

Hinata's breath hitched as Naruto's hands explored her, and she gently guided him, showing him what she needed. The connection between them was palpable, a dance of mutual desire and affection. They took their time, savoring each touch, each caress, as if they were both afraid of the fragility of the moment.

Naruto's hands moved with increasing confidence, driven by his love and desire. He undressed her with careful, deliberate movements, his eyes never leaving hers. Hinata returned the gesture, her fingers brushing over his skin with a tenderness that made his heart race. But then something overcame Naruto and he found himself hesitating, unsure of what he thought they were about to share.

"Hinata," Naruto whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "Are you sure about this? I don't want to… I don't want to mess this up."

Hinata lips curled in a smile, her eyes filled with both love and reassurance. She placed a gentle hand on his cheek, her touch calming. "Naruto, I've never been more sure of anything. I want this with you, more than anything."

Naruto's fears slowly began to dissipate as he looked into her eyes. The love and trust he saw there gave him the courage he needed. He leaned in and kissed her, a tender, exploratory kiss that spoke of both his love and his nervousness. The kiss deepened, becoming more passionate, as the warmth of their connection pushed away the last of Naruto's doubts.

Naruto and Hinata lay together in the quiet, their bodies still entwined. The intimacy of the moment they just shared had forged a deeper bond between them, one that went beyond physical desire. They were now even more deeply connected, their love for each other reaffirmed by the night they had shared.

Hinata rested her head on Naruto's chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart. "I have to go...my roommate must be worried for me."

"Please," Naruto pleaded. "Just a bit longer okay?"

"But what about Sasuke?" Hinata' asked, raising herself on a shoulder to more easily look at his face.

"He'll be fine, don't worry about him." Naruto laughed, gently placing a hand on her cheek. "I just want to be with you..."

Hinata smiled slightly as she lowered her head to kiss him softly. "I love you, Naruto," she murmured.

Naruto smiled back at her, his voice filled with emotion. "I love you too, Hinata. Always."

They lay together, wrapped in each other's arms, the night outside their tent a distant memory. In that quiet, serene moment, they were simply two people in love, finding solace and strength in each other's embrace.

Sasuke stepped out of the southern district of the base, taking a deep breath of the cool night air. He glanced back briefly, a small smile tugging at his lips. He knew Naruto and Hinata needed this moment, and he was more than willing to give it to them.

As he strolled around the camp, his thoughts drifted. He remembered the sight of Sakura the previous day, her warm smile and the way she greeted him with a hug. She was always a source of comfort, a constant in the chaos of their lives.

Then there was Hinata, who had surprised him today. He chuckled softly to himself, thinking about how Naruto had always been clueless about her feelings. But now, seeing them together, it made sense. They had a bond, a connection that had only grown stronger over the years. He couldn't help but be happy for her, even if he didn't fully understand what she saw in the Hokage's son.

After wandering for a while, Sasuke felt a wave of tiredness wash over him. Deciding it was time to sleep, he made his way to Shisui's tent. He knocked lightly on the wooden frame before stepping in.

Shisui looked up from his bedroll, surprised. "Sasuke? What brings you here at this hour?"

Sasuke shrugged, a small smirk playing on his lips. "Naruto has a 'visitor' over."

Shisui chuckled, shaking his head. "Ah, I see. Well, make yourself comfortable. There's plenty of room."

Sasuke settled down, grateful for Shisui's hospitality. They exchanged a few more words before drifting off to sleep, the sounds of the camp outside providing a strange sense of peace.

The next morning, Sasuke made his way back to his tent. He found Naruto in an exceptionally good mood, practically radiating happiness. Hinata was nowhere to be seen, likely having left early.

Sasuke raised an eyebrow, a teasing smile on his face. "You seem unusually cheerful this morning, Naruto."

Naruto's grin widened. "Yeah, well, it's a good day."

"Does a certain something or...someone have anything to do with it?" Sasuke prodded, his tone light.

Naruto blushed slightly but couldn't hide his smile. "Maybe."

Sasuke laughed, genuinely happy for his teammate. "Well, it's about time. You've been moping around for so long."

That evening, Sasuke headed back to his tent, his thoughts occupied with the ongoing hostilities. As he rounded a corner, he nearly collided with Hinata, who was heading in the same direction.

"Are you kidding me?" Sasuke said, half-laughing, half-exasperated.

Hinata's cheeks turned a deep shade of red. "Oh, Sasuke, I—"

Sasuke waved her off, shaking his head with a frustrated expression. "Don't worry about it. Just...GOOD NIGHT."

Hinata nodded, still flustered. "Good...good night Sasuke."

Sasuke turned on his heel, grumbling to himself as he made his way to Shisui's tent. "Is this my life now?"

Shisui looked up as Sasuke entered, noting the frown on his face. "Again?"

"Again," Sasuke sighed, dropping onto a spare bedroll.

Shisui laughed, the sound lightening the mood. "Well, it's good to see them happy, right?"

"Yeah," Sasuke agreed, a small smile returning to his face. "It is."

And with that, Sasuke settled in for another night, content in the knowledge that his friends were finding their own happiness, even if it meant a few more nights of crashing elsewhere.

Two days later

Gaara's direct reconnaissance group moved with a quiet efficiency through the arid terrain. Their mission was crucial: to scout for enemy forces and gather intelligence that could turn the tide of the war. With Gaara's sand eye and Hinata's Byakugan, their ability to detect enemy movements was unparalleled.

The sun hung high up in the sky, unleashing it's fury on the barren terrain as the group approached the coast. Gaara's sand floated around him, forming an eye that scouted ahead, while Hinata's Byakugan activated, veins bulging around her temples as she scanned the horizon.

"Anything yet?" Gaara asked, his voice calm but focused.

Hinata's eyes narrowed as she extended her range. "I can see movement... a lot of it. Across the sea, near the port town we use for logistics."

Gaara's sand eye swirled, confirming her observation. "It looks like a buildup of enemy forces. But the distance is too great to gauge their full strength."

Their third member, a Konoha Anbu, stepped closer. "We should report this to Danzo. If the enemy is preparing to strike, we need to be ready."

Gaara nodded. "Agreed. We need to get back and relay this information."

The group began their return journey, moving swiftly but cautiously. As they traveled, Gaara and Hinata continued to scan their surroundings, ensuring they were not being followed.

The landscape shifted from rocky outcrops to sandy dunes, the sea a constant presence on their left. The wind carried the faint smell of salt and the distant sound of waves crashing against the shore.

Hinata glanced at Gaara, her voice steady despite the urgency. "Do you think they plan to attack Fūka?"

"It's possible," Gaara replied. "Fūka is a vital logistics hub for us. Losing it would be a significant blow."

The Konoha Anbu spoke up, his tone grim. "And with their artillery, they could do serious damage before we even have a chance to respond."

The weight of the situation pressed on them as they pushed forward, determined to reach their destination quickly.

As they neared the edge of the coastline, Gaara paused, his sand eye flickering far ahead in the distance. "Wait. I see something."

Hinata immediately focused her Byakugan in the same direction. "There's a group... small, but they're moving fast. Could be scouts."

Gaara's sand swirled protectively around them. "We can't afford to be delayed. We need to avoid detection."

The group adjusted their path, skirting the potential threat and making their way inland. The terrain grew more familiar as they approached the outskirts of their own territory.

Finally, after what felt like hours, they reached the temporary command center. Danzo was waiting, his expression as unreadable as ever.

"Report," he commanded.

Gaara stepped forward. "We detected a significant buildup of enemy forces across the sea from Fūka. However, the distance prevented us from accurately gauging their numbers."

Danzo's eyes narrowed. "This is concerning. If they strike at Fūka, we must be prepared. We'll need to reinforce our defenses and possibly call for additional support."

Hinata nodded. "We saw scouts as well. They're likely gathering intelligence on our positions."

Danzo considered this for a moment, then turned to an aide. "Send word to our allied units. We must prepare for an imminent attack on Fūka. And ensure our own scouts are doubled."

The aide nodded and hurried off to relay the orders.

Gaara looked at Danzo. "We'll be ready."

Danzo gave a curt nod. "See that you are. The survival of Fūka depends on it."

As Gaara's team prepared to rest and resupply, the gravity of their discovery weighed heavily on them. The enemy was coming, and Fūka's fate hung in the balance. The next few days would be crucial in determining the outcome of this critical battle.

Three days later

The first light of dawn was barely breaking over the horizon, casting long shadows over the bustling preparations in Fūka village. A crisp sea breeze carried the salty tang of the ocean, mingling with the acrid smell of sweat and the sharp scent of metal and wood. The village, usually a quiet trade hub nestled near the coast, was now a beehive of frantic activity. Fortifications were rising, hastily constructed barriers of wood and stone, while teams of shinobi scurried about, fortifying defenses and preparing for the battle that loomed on the edge of their reality.

Naruto stood atop a makeshift wooden platform overlooking the village, his gaze sweeping over the sea of allied troops mobilizing below. His heart was a tumult of emotions—determination, anxiety, and an undercurrent of dread. This was to be the largest battle of the war so far, and the stakes could not have been higher. The village of Fūka was not just a strategic point but a symbol of resistance against the encroaching forces of Kiri and its allies. It was a crucial node in the logistical network that the enemy sought to dismantle.

Beside him, Gaara was deep in thought, his expression as unreadable as the sands of the desert. The presence of the jinchuriki was both a beacon of hope and a strategic advantage for Suna. Their abilities were a formidable counterbalance to the threat posed by the enemy's own jinchuriki, Yugito and Killer Bee. Yet Gaara's usual calm demeanor seemed tinged with a rare edge of tension, an unspoken acknowledgment of the gravity of the situation.

"Ready yourself, Naruto," Gaara said, his voice low but firm. "We need to be at our best. Fūka's fate rests on our shoulders."

Naruto nodded, though his eyes betrayed a flicker of unease. He had fought alongside Gaara before , but this was different. This was a direct confrontation with the combined forces of Kumo and Kiri, and the presence of the enemy's powerful jinchuriki only heightened the stakes.

The village's defenders were not alone in their preparation. The allied forces from Konoha, including the 6th Heavy Brigade, were arrayed in impressive array. They moved with a disciplined efficiency, their advanced weaponry and combat strategies a testament to Konoha's martial prowess. Among them were familiar faces—Shisui, Sasuke, and other key members who had fought alongside Naruto and Gaara in previous skirmishes. Their presence brought a sense of reassurance, but the underlying tension was palpable.

The air was thick with the sounds of hammering and the murmur of strategizing voices. Soldiers spoke in low tones, their faces etched with the seriousness of the situation. Some tried to maintain a facade of calm, but others exhibited signs of anxiety as they prepared for the coming clash. Even the children of Fūka, who had stayed behind for lack of other refuge, clung to their parents, their eyes wide with fear.

Hinata moved quietly through the ranks, her Byakugan scanning the area for any potential weaknesses in the fortifications. She had seen the toll the war had taken on her comrades, but this battle felt different—more intense, more personal. Her recent reunion with Naruto had stirred feelings of both hope and apprehension. She knew the battle ahead could change everything.

Sakura, her expression more somber than usual, was coordinating medical supplies and tending to the injured as they arrived. Despite the focus on logistics, her mind was on her friends—Sasuke, Hinata, and the broader implications of the upcoming fight. She had seen the way a lot of shinobis struggled with the weight of their recent experiences, and she worried for him and for all of them.

The scene shifted to the enemy's camp, where Kumo and Kiri's forces assembled with their own sense of purpose. The Raikage, resolute and commanding, oversaw the deployment of artillery and the positioning of his troops. The Kiri forces, led by their own experienced commanders, prepared for the role they would play in what was to be a coordinated assault. Yugito and Killer Bee, stationed near the front lines, exchanged glances filled with unspoken understanding of the high stakes. The presence of the ANBU black ops and the medical battalion underscored the seriousness with which both sides approached the confrontation.

As the sun began its slow climb higher in the sky, the village of Fūka was girded for war. The fortifications were in place, the troops were ready, and the anticipation was almost palpable. Each side prepared for the decisive clash that would determine not only the fate of the village but also the broader course of the war.

[Author's note]

Just wanted to clarify some in universe trivia to help better understand some things before future events.

All the jinchuriki are roughly around the same level power wise, what sets them apart is their individual skill and their arsenal of abilities (like their own jutsus, sage mode,etc These will also carry over to their tailed beast transformations).

I aged up and de-aged some of them too. At this point in the story the strongest jinchurikis so far are:

Killer bee (26yo)

Gaara (18yo)

Yugito (25yo)

Naruto (17yo)

Roshi (57yo)

Fuu (16yo)

Han (38yo)