Chapter 18- Don't You Leave Us in the Dark

Naruto settled beside Sasuke, who lay curled, eyes vacant.

"You're still here?" Naruto asked, his voice laced with concern.

"Leave." Sasuke's response was barely audible.

Naruto rolled his eyes. "Like that's happening."

"Did something happen between you and Kakashi Sensei?" Naruto pressed, concern etched on his face. "Why did he say those things?"

Sasuke's expression remained distant. "Why are you here, Naruto? Don't you hate me too?"

Naruto's gaze lingered on Sasuke's averted face, his expression tightening. "Why would I hate you, Sasuke? No one's told me anything!" He leaned in, his face inches from Sasuke's, eyes blazing with urgency. "Spill it!"

Sasuke sighed, shame etched on his face, and averted his gaze. "Ask Kakashi," he muttered. "You were with him for... who knows how long."

"About two and a half hours," Naruto replied, settling back, chin resting on his fist. "But I couldn't ask." His voice softened, understanding reflected in his expression. "He'd put on a brave face for the doctors and nurses, but when they left... he'd get that look again." Naruto's eyes locked onto Sasuke's, searching for any reaction. "I've learned a thing or two about empathy from Shanan," Naruto continued, voice measured. "I can read people pretty well now."

"Good, I hope they're happy together." Naruto's eyes widened in shock. That was the last thing he expected Sasuke to say.

"What are you even talking about, Sasuke?" Naruto pressed, confusion etched on his face.

Sasuke's laughter was hollow. "Thought you'd gotten good at reading people." He met Naruto's gaze, his eyes searching.

Naruto's expression remained puzzled.

Sasuke's face contorted, and he looked away, his voice cracking. "Anyway, he was right... It's my fault Shanan's hurt." Tears welled up in his eyes as he idly plucked blades of grass. "I pushed her," he admitted, anguish in his voice. "I just wanted to spite Kakashi. Show him I knew her, loved her more than anyone else." His voice broke.

Sasuke's gaze fell on the scattered grass, his breathing deliberate. "Did you find out anything else about Shanan?" he whispered.

Naruto's voice was gentle. "Just that... she shattered a few vertebrae. And something's weird with her chakra, but the doctor didn't know what. Neji offered to help explain, but the doctor told him to come back tomorrow."

Sasuke's face crumpled, tears streaming down. His voice shattered. "Can't you just tell me you hate me?"

"Stop, Sasuke! Blaming yourself doesn't make it your fault. Shanan would never hate you. If you asked her, she'd say it wasn't your fault."

"But she'd be wrong," Sasuke whispered, wiping his nose.

Naruto chuckled. "Oh, really? Would you tell her that?"

Sasuke remained silent.

"Didn't think so," Naruto said matter-of-factly. "Because you know it's a crock of shit.

A faint, breathy chuckle escaped Sasuke's lips, despite his turmoil.

"Can we head home? We can discuss this all you want, but my legs are getting eaten alive in this grass."

Sasuke gazed at Naruto, a mix of sadness and confusion on his face. "How can you be so calm?"

"I'm glad you asked," Naruto said as he leaned forward, eyes sparkling. "Because despite what you might think, I'm actually the one that knows Shanan best. She's fine. A little fall from the sky won't kill her!" He chuckled. "She might not even remember it!"

Sasuke's face softened, a hint of a smile escaping before he hid it. "Alright, fine. Let's go home. I'm tired."

Naruto sprang up, relief washing over him. "Thank GOD!" He swatted at his arm. "And these mosquitoes are relentless!"

It'd been several hours since Neji and Lee had finally gone home after Kakashi woke them up and assured them that they could return first thing in the morning.

The waiting room chairs were as uncomfortable as the last time he'd spent a night in them, though he knew he didn't really need to. The only reason he had last time was because he'd spent the night on high alert and didn't feel as though he could be as vigilant from inside the room.

This time, he decided, he'd be a lot more comfortable in the leather chair by the bed. So he stood, taking a deep breath as he stretched his legs and felt just how tired he really was.

He shoved his hands in the pockets of his flak jacket and nodded at the nurses as he walked past their station. He was glad that many of the nurses from her previous stay were still there.

As he opened the door, it felt as though no time had passed between then and now and he was almost surprised to see her older now as she lay unconscious in the hospital bed. The doctor had told him that due to the severity of her injuries, it'd take several sessions to completely heal her and that she'd be in a lot of pain if she woke up, so for now they were keeping her sedated.

Kakashi shed his jacket and headband, setting them on the counter. The familiar room evoked mixed emotions - strangeness and comfort. Though she wasn't awake to appreciate it with him, he knew she would. He stood, leaning against the counter with his arms crossed as his gaze landed on her face. A soft chuckle escaped his lips as he pulled his mask down. The cool air hitting his face was always a bit alarming, but it felt weird being alone with her and having it up. However, as he watched her, his thoughts drifted constantly to the moment he'd caught her.

Regret crept in as Kakashi replayed the moment. Should he have sought higher ground sooner? Held her differently? Landed differently? It was their impact that had shattered her vertebrae. He'd heard it. They all had. He knew that if she'd hit the ground, she'd likely be gone, her body downstairs, covered with a sheet.

He rubbed his eyebrow as he tried to push that thought from his mind and then made his way to stand next to the bed. He shoved his hands in his pockets as he studied her face. Had she even been aware that she was falling? Everyone saw her go limp, but when did she lose consciousness? He saw no signs of panic, not during her ascent, and not when she fell. No flailing. No screaming. She'd been calm the entire time, so what had happened?

And did she feel any pain then or even now? Kakashi sighed, sinking into the chair, his mind racing through every detail. Yet, instead of answers, more questions emerged.

Ironically, dissecting Shanan's fall proved easier than confronting his words to Sasuke. His mind recoiled from that conversation.

Kakashi acknowledged his unfairness, yet apology seemed premature; his emotions still raw.

He didn't even truly blame Sasuke. Not fully anyway.

It was himself that he blamed most. For agreeing to train her. For not dragging her off the field. Calmly or forcefully. He easily could have and he should have. She'd forgive him after she rested. Then she'd show everyone her new jutsu and become a Chunin. In the end, training her had only held her back, which was exactly what he never wanted to do to her. Shutting down her idea would've been wiser…

But Kakashi knew training her was inevitable; she'd pursue it alone otherwise.

He sat up and tilted his head as he watched her, he could see that her eyes were moving rapidly beneath her lids and he wondered if she was doing exactly what he was doing right now. Their determination and dislike for uncertainty mirrored each other.

"Dammit..." Kakashi whispered, his voice cracking as he grasped her hand gently. "You promised..." His voice cracked, unable to finish. He wouldn't burden her with blame, despite her vow to be cautious.

Exhaustion claimed him, his head resting on his arm as he held her hand. Shanan's cycling chakra soothed him, ushering in a deep, restful sleep.

Shanan's eyes fluttered open, and she was met with an unfamiliar ceiling. Panic set in, her heart racing as she scrambled to sit up. The hospital room was sterile and cold, with beeping machines and antiseptic smells. Her arms were already drenched, and she stared at them in confusion.

Memories began to resurface - the water, the white-haired boy, the darkness. But were they real? And when did they happen? Shanan's body began to feel heavy and fluid like she was dissolving into the mattress. Her breath came in short gasps as if she was struggling to stay afloat. Her eyes widened, panicked, as she clutched the hospital sheets, unsure what was happening to her.

Just as the fear threatened to overwhelm her, the door swung open, and Kakashi walked in. His presence was a source of strength, calming her turmoil.

"Kakashi!" she exclaimed, her voice trembling.

His eyes widened in surprise as he entered the hospital room, finding her awake. This was his fifth visit, and until now, she had remained unconscious since the night he'd saved her.

A soft smile spread across his face. "Hello, Shanan. You're awake," he said, pulling his mask down. He crossed the room and settled into the chair beside her bed, his movements calm and deliberate. "How are you feeling?"

Shanan's gaze drifted inward, her thoughts tangled in a web of uncertainty. Her brow furrowed, a faint crease between her eyebrows. "Oh yeah, my name is... Shanan," she whispered, the words feeling foreign on her lips. A hesitant smile faltered, and her eyes clouded over, as if the very act of remembering had awakened a deeper unease. "But why did I forget that?"

Kakashi's expression turned sympathetic, his voice gentle. "Well, your doctor thought you might have trouble remembering some things."

Her confusion deepened, her brow furrowing. "Oh? Like what?" She didn't feel like she was forgetting anything significant, except for that fleeting moment of uncertainty about her name.

His pause was palpable, his eyes searching for the right words. "Your past, maybe," he ventured, his tone measured. "Your memories might be... elusive."

"My past?" she repeated, her voice barely above a whisper.

A shiver ran down her spine as memories of the darkness threatened to resurface. Her stomach churned, nausea welling up like a cold, dark wave. Swallowing hard, she tried to push back the familiar dread.

Did he mean those moments, those feelings? She wouldn't mind forgetting them. Erasing the pain and fear would be a blessing.

Understanding dawned in his eyes, and he nodded, his expression empathetic. "We'll take things one step at a time, Shanan," he promised, his voice soft. "But you're safe now. Alright?"

Her nod was almost imperceptible, but Kakashi's gentle smile acknowledged it.

Though uncertain about his words on her past and memories, his reassuring presence eclipsed her concerns. The darkness still lingered in the back of her mind, but with Kakashi nearby, she felt shielded from its shadows.

"As long as you're here, I think I'm okay," she said, her voice filled with sincere appreciation. Her eyes locked onto Kakashi's, finding solace in his calm demeanor.

His smile softened, his eyes crinkling at the corners. A comforting expression.

Shanan's gaze shifted to her surroundings, taking in the hospital room's atmosphere. "Is this... where I live now?"

He shook his head, his motion calm and reassuring. "No, this is just the hospital. You have a place waiting for you when you're feeling better."

Her brow furrowed again, her mind racing. "Okay..." Her eyes darted around the room, searching for familiarity. She returned to Kakashi, her eyes seeking answers. "Is there something wrong with me?" she asked, a hint of vulnerability in her voice.

Kakashi's lips curved into another gentle smile, and he chuckled softly, easing the tension. "You're still recovering, Shanan. That's all. You've been through a lot."

Her gaze lingered on him, hesitation brewing within. She considered pressing him for answers, asking what he meant by "a lot." But something inside her recoiled at the thought of revisiting the cold nothingness that had haunted her dreams. The shadows still loomed, waiting to pounce if she thought too hard about them. So she didn't want to confront them…

The darkness bore down on her, its crushing weight suffocating. Cold inkiness seeped into her lungs, but suddenly recoiled as a faint glow emerged. Shanan collapsed, gasping on all fours, just as sunlight enveloped her.

She glanced up, vision clearing, and found Kakashi standing with his back to her. Deep breaths steadied her. Recognizing the familiar dreamscape, she shook off lingering unease. Nightmares clung tighter, but dreams were gentler.

His presence accelerated her calm. A warm smile spread across her face. "You grabbed my hand, didn't you?"

Kakashi spun around to find Shanan standing there, arms crossed as she looked at him, playfully stern.

"And then fell asleep?!" she teased.

A chuckle escaped Kakashi's lips, unsure what was unfolding. "Well, it is the middle of the night…" he defended. He scanned the area quickly, noting the warm breeze and the cloudless blue sky and then looked back at Shanan. "Or so… I thought."

She shrugged casually. "I have no idea. It feels like I just got here." Closing the distance, she stood before Kakashi, her expression thoughtful. "But it also feels like I've been here forever, so don't listen to me."

Kakashi's curiosity stirred. "So, is this a dream?"

Her eyes sparkled, anticipating the question. "I think so… Sasuke and I share dreams almost every night."

"Ah, yes… Sharing chakra with someone can spark some interesting dynamics," Kakashi replied thoughtfully.

Shanan chuckled. "Yeah, I've read some things…" Her gaze turned serious. "You've been blaming yourself, haven't you?" she asked.

Kakashi's expression faltered, revealing a hint of vulnerability. "That obvious, huh?" he asked, a nervous undertone creeping into his voice.

"Well, like I said, I figured you out a long time ago." Shanan's voice was gentle, probing. "So, how bad is it, anyway? Did I hit the ground?"

Kakashi's sigh betrayed his lingering guilt, his eyes clouding over. "Well, no, I caught you. But..."

Shanan's tone turned cautionary. "Kakashi..."

He shook his head, sorrow seeping into his voice. "You weren't there, Shanan. Not really. You didn't see or hear it happen. It was..."

Shanan gazed out at the distant training grounds, then returned her attention to Kakashi. "You're right. I couldn't bear seeing that happen to you, Naruto, or Sasuke without blaming myself."

She took a deep breath, laughter bubbling up. "God, we're so obnoxious."

Kakashi joined her laughter, nodding.

"I'll be fine, Kakashi. You saved me... again!" she teased.

Kakashi's smile warmed. "Anytime." He reached his hand out, gently patting her head.

Her eyes sparkled with amusement, then narrowed in mock annoyance. "I'm not a dog, Kakashi," she said, laughing.

As Kakashi opened his eyes, the sky was a muted blue hue as the sun made its way over the horizon, still tucked away behind buildings and trees. Shanan still lay there, the same as she had been.

The next week or so was much the same. He spent a lot of his time at the hospital. Asking questions about her status and recovery.

He'd even sat in with Neji as he told him about her chakra cycling, but the doctor had told him that that was already in her file and that whatever was going on with her chakra wasn't… that.

And without missing a beat or even turning to face her room, Neji immediately activated his Byakugan and scanned her more thoroughly this time. Which actually made Kakashi chuckle under his mask.

"I don't see anything unusu– hmm…" Neji said softly.

Kakashi leaned forward. "What is it?"

Neji studied her for a few moments. Unsure to make of what it was he was seeing. "Well… there is something, but… I can't really decipher it. It's not something I've seen before." His brow furrowed as his eyes seemed to stare through the doctor in front of him as he continued to study Shanan with his Byakugan. "This is frustrating. But I guess I shouldn't be surprised with her. I'd never witnessed chakra cycling before we entered the academy together." He shut off his Byakugan and looked over at Kakashi. "Maybe if I had a few days, I could make sense of it. But even now, all I can really say is that there's a ton of chakra behind her eyes. Why? Don't ask me. I may as well not even have this Dojutsu!" he said rather impatiently.

"Well…" Kakashi said, looking at the doctor. "What I know of her ability, that's not… nothing. I guess we'll see."

The doctor nodded, acknowledging both Neji and Kakashi's assessments. "I figured as much…"

Shanan's trembling intensified, her eyes fixed on her wet palms as fear and confusion swirled within her. Why did another person's existence frighten her so much? She knew other people existed, but the concept felt distant, disconnected. "What's wrong with me?" she whispered, confusion and fear entwined in her voice.

Kakashi's hand on her shoulder conveyed comfort, his softening gaze filled with empathy. "It's alright, Shanan. I'm here, and I won't let anyone hurt you." The warmth of his promise enveloped her, shielding her from doubt.

Her gaze lifted to his, vulnerable and seeking understanding. "I don't understand why I keep doing this." She held up her wet hands, her brow furrowed in confusion.

His expression turned lighthearted, his eyes crinkling at the corners. He took Shanan's hands in his, his touch warm and reassuring. "Hmm, let's have a look," he said, his tone playful.

Instantly, her hands dried, and Kakashi pretended to examine them, his scrutiny comical. "I see nothing wrong here," he joked, a smile spreading across his face.

Shanan's surprised laughter bubbled up, dissolving her tension. "That's so weird."

A soft, genuine smile spread across his face, calming her worries. "Ah, well, I've seen weirder, Shanan. Trust me."

Her laughter, though hesitant, was music to his ears. He smiled again as relief washed over him and he chuckled along with her.

As their laughter faded, his expression turned thoughtful. "How about we let the nurse check you out?"

She shrugged nonchalantly. "Of course!"

He chuckled at her response, relieved by her resilience. "There are many doctors and nurses in the hospital, but they're all here to help."

She nodded, a faint smile on her lips. "Oh, right... I do know about doctors and nurses, for some reason." Her brow furrowed, lost in thought. How did she know that? Why wouldn't she? They helped people. Didn't they? Her gaze drifted to Kakashi, he had helped her the most. "But you're not a doctor, right?" she asked, a hint of confusion in her voice.

Kakashi's smile widened, enjoying the simplicity of their conversation. "Definitely not."

"Oh." She asked, her voice laced with curiosity. "What are you, then?"

"Actually, I'm a shinobi," he said, his voice low and matter-of-fact.

"Ooh... A shinobi? That sounds cool," she said, her eyes widening. Her voice betrayed her uncertainty – what did it mean to be a shinobi? Kakashi's chuckle filled the space between them, easing her curiosity. Her eyes locked onto his, her question barely above a whisper. "So, do shinobi usually save people too?"

Kakashi's expression softened. "That's a great question." He considered his duties for a moment before answering thoughtfully. "Well, whatever we do, saving someone is generally the goal." He didn't think the full answer was appropriate at this particular moment.

"Hmm… I guess that's a good thing, at least," she said, her smile genuine.

He shrugged slightly, his expression enigmatic.

Her eyes narrowed, catching the subtle look on his face. "Well, didn't you become one to help people?" she asked, her voice probing.

"I do like helping people," he told her.

"Can anyone become a shinobi?" She asked.

"If you can wield chakra, then you can become a shinobi," he said, his tone measured. "But it's a lot of work, even for the most gifted." He leaned back, considering her question. "It's not just about ability, but dedication and will." Pausing, he met her gaze. "Why? Are you considering it now?"

Shanan's gaze drifted, her thoughts seemingly elsewhere. "Just weighing my options…"

For the first few days, Kakashi made sure to leave space for anyone else to visit Shanan, which Naruto, Neji, Lee and Hinata had shown up daily.

Sasuke was notably absent, which only added to Kakashi's guilt. But once the Chunin exams started, her friends were all too busy to see her anyway.

Nights were spent chatting away with her in dreamland or wherever it was they were. He'd fill her in if the doctors gave him any news and he'd tell her who had stopped by during the first few days.

"I haven't seen Sasuke," Shanan said a bit sadly on his seventh visit.

He sighed, shoulders sagging. "No, you wouldn't."

"Wait. Did something happen? Is he alright?"

"He's just…" Kakashi wasn't sure how much he wanted to share about the Sasuke situation. "He's busy with the Chunin exams. It's been a bit hard for him to focus since your accident, so he's just been trying to make sure his mind is focused."

"Oh." She looked down as if pondering something and then looked back up at Kakashi. "How long have I been here?"

"About a week now. How long did you think it was?" He asked her, curiosity etched on his face.

She shrugged. "I had no idea. Feels like… months. Or, no. Hours. But that can't be right either. Do you visit me every night?" she asked him.

He nodded, though he knew time felt different here - the sun was unmoving - it still made him feel uneasy.

"Okay, I guess that's helpful… At least you're here."

"It's kinda nice being here," he said. "It's quiet."

Shanan laughed and looked at him sarcastically. "It's so quiet here. Do you wake up rested after visiting?"

"Yeah," he said. "Actually, it's some of the best sleep I've had in a long time."

"Aww!" she beamed at him. "That's good." She laughed again and added, "So glad I could help you with that…"

Shanan's face trembled, her eyes pleading as she searched for reassurance. "Do you think I'll forget about it?" she asked, determination on her face, her voice barely above a whisper.

His hands cradled her face, his expression warm and comforting. His voice softened, measured. "The dark?" he clarified, his eyes locked onto hers.

She nodded, her gaze unwavering, still holding onto hope.

His expression turned somber as he sighed, his eyes clouding. "Based on my experience, Shanan, probably not." His voice was gentle, yet it carried the weight of hard truths, wrapped in empathy.

Her heart sank, shoulders falling like the weight of the world pressed upon them. Yet, Kakashi's hands remained a gentle anchor.

"It's… not something you can forget," he continued, his tone measured, "but you can learn to live with it." His words resonated with the gravity of his own battles, a testament to resilience. "Eventually."

Her eyes shifted, gaze drifting inward as she replayed his words in her mind. After a moment, she took his hands gently, moving them from her face. Her eyes lifted, earnest and deep, searching his. "Does that mean you used to be in the dark like me?" she asked, her voice tender.

Kakashi's brow furrowed, his eyes clouding like a stormy sky. He wrestled with the weight of his thoughts for a moment, the silence stretching between them. Shanan's empathetic gaze enveloped him, a gentle warmth that eased his tension.

His chest rose with a deep breath, breaking the silence as his voice emerged, barely above a whisper.

"If… I'm being honest..."

As he spoke, the words felt disconnected from his lips, as if they floated into the air without his conscious intent. His voice was a mere echo of his thoughts, a whispered confession to himself, yet somehow audible to Shanan.

He paused, vulnerability etched on his face. His eyes drifted through Shanan, as if gazing into the depths of his own soul.

"I'm still in the dark."

The words hung in the air, heavy with emotion. A single tear escaped, rolling down his cheek like an autumn raindrop, heavy with unspoken sorrows.

His hand hesitated, then wiped it away. His gaze finally focused on Shanan, locking onto hers. His eyes searched for understanding, for validation that he wasn't alone in his darkness.

Her expression softened, compassion pouring from her heart.

"I'm really scared of the dark, Kakashi," she whispered, her voice trembling. The admission hung between them, raw and vulnerable, bridging the chasm of unspoken fears.

He forced a small smile, his voice barely audible. "Me too, Shanan," he replied, his voice cracking under the weight of his confession. In that moment, the walls he'd built around his heart felt shockingly fragile.

She'd gotten pretty used to being there. Almost two weeks in, Kakashi arrived to see that she had a couch facing out toward the village.

"Oh, hey, Kakashi," he heard her say.

He looked toward the spot where her voice had come from and only saw the couch. As he approached, he looked over the back and she was laying there, one hand on her stomach and the other on her forehead, ankles crossed as she stared up at the sky. "Where'd this come from?"

"It's a dream, Kakashi, I can make a couch!" she told him.

"Impressive," he said, nodding. "Can I sit?"

She sat up and leaned back against the arm of the couch, crossing her legs comfortably while he sat and did the same.

"You 're so good at that," he said with a chuckle. "Do you even look up before you say 'hey' to me?" he asked her playfully.

Shanan smiled softly. "No. I don't need to."

"Of course not," he said. "Enjoying your new couch? Just sitting here, staring out at the village?"

"Did it look like I was doing that?" she teased. "Coz I thought it was pret-ty clear that I was looking up at the sky."

He tilted his head back and looked up at the vast blue expanse. "What could you be looking at? There aren't even any clouds…"

Shanan mirrored him, her eyes on the sky. "No," she acknowledged, "but that's a good thing…"

Kakashi looked back at her, confusion etched on his face, but she just laughed, meeting his gaze.

"I can actually see the stars if there aren't any clouds, Kakashi."

He sat up straight, surprise sparking in his eyes. "The stars? What do you mean?"

She shook her head, a small smile on her lips, as if it were obvious. "Duh, how do you think I always know you're here, dummy?..."

Kakashi jolted awake, his shortest visit yet. The implications of Shanan's revelation lingered, surprising him. Though, he immediately regretted it, thinking about how his departures only left her alone in darkness. Yet, his presence somehow dispelled the shadows, a mystery he couldn't grasp. She was the source of light, not him.

Kakashi tried to drift back to sleep, eager to return, but time worked differently there. His brief visit consumed the night, and sunrise approached. He'd hoped to share news: her back was healed, sedation ended. She could wake up.

But she didn't. She remained deep in her slumber as if she were still being pumped with medication to keep her there. Duty called, denying Kakashi another visit that night. He was summoned to tackle a pressing matter, leaving him restless.

After being caught up on everything that had happened in the exams so far, Kakashi had to spend the night researching an old sealing technique he'd once come across. He knew he needed to get the Fuuinjutsu exact or it wouldn't work and there was a lot to remember.

Kakashi stood aloof, scanning the bustling arena from the top of the stands, his eyes hidden behind his book. The crowd roared, cheering on their friends in the preliminary rounds.

Sasuke's match ended in triumph, but at great cost. The curse mark's dark influence drained his strength, leaving him spent.

As Sasuke teetered on collapse, Kakashi appeared behind him in a whirl of smoke, his movements fluid and silent. He offered his knee, supporting Sasuke's weary frame.

"Well done," Kakashi said, his voice calm, a hint of pride beneath.

The words marked a fragile bridge, spanning the chasm created by Kakashi's harsh rebuke after Shanan's fall. Sasuke's gaze flickered upward, searching for reassurance.

Sasuke's gaze lingered on Kakashi, surprise mingling with caution. The distance between them felt like an eternity, the rift from their last encounter still raw.

"Let's go," Kakashi said, his voice firm but gentle, as he helped Sasuke up. "I'll seal that curse mark."

Their walk to the prepared chamber was heavy with silence, the weight of their last training session still pressing.

Sasuke's thoughts churned with self-blame, Kakashi's harsh words still resonating. He had avoided Shanan, unable to face her, and given Kakashi space to tend to her.

Kakashi's eyes lingered on Sasuke, his mind wrestling with unspoken emotions. Apologies came naturally to him, yet this time, words faltered. The reason eluded him, despite acknowledging Sasuke's innocence.

No blame rested on Sasuke's shoulders – not for the training's intensity nor his subsequent distance during Shanan's hospitalization. Sasuke's resemblance to his former self unsettled Kakashi.

Upon entering the chamber, Kakashi's voice turned crisp and professional. "Sit in the center, remove your shirt."

Sasuke complied silently, his movements fluid as he positioned himself within the intricate seal.

"Stay still," Kakashi instructed, standing behind him, his hands poised to weave the complex Fuuinjutsu. "Once activated, it may sting, but relief will follow."

Sasuke nodded, his gaze cast downward, anticipation and trust etched on his face.

Kakashi focused on his task, biting into the flesh of his finger to release the necessary blood. The crimson liquid flowed, allowing him to meticulously craft the Fuuinjutsu symbols across Sasuke's upper body.

As the seal activated, Sasuke's eyes flashed with pain, his neck searing from the curse mark's grip loosening.

Then, tranquility settled in, quelling the simmering rage that had fueled him for days.

"Better?" Kakashi asked, voice measured.

Sasuke rubbed his neck, rolling his shoulder, relief washing over his face. "Yeah, actually. I feel... relieved."

Kakashi nodded curtly. "Good."

Unspoken emotions lingered, thickening the air. They avoided eye contact, tension still simmering.

Sasuke's gaze drifted to the floor, shame and gratitude warring within. Kakashi's eyes narrowed, his expression guarded.

"So," Sasuke whispered, breaking the silence.

"Right," Kakashi replied, his voice equally subdued.

Minutes ticked by, tension lingering, before Kakashi spoke again.

"I noticed, sealing your mark... You possess lightning chakra."

Sasuke's eyes widened in surprise. "Do I? But—"

Kakashi squatted, meeting Sasuke's gaze. "I can teach you Chidori, if you'd like. For the final round."

Sasuke focused inward, sensing the faint electrical current. His eyes locked onto Kakashi, nodding briefly.

Kakashi stood, his hands slipping into his pockets, his gaze drifting away. "However," he added, his voice measured, "I need something from you."

Sasuke's eyes snapped up, apprehension etched on his face.

"Go visit her," Kakashi instructed.

Before the words fully registered, Sasuke's hands flew to his face, tears bursting forth. His body shook with convulsive sobs. Sasuke's anguish poured out, guilt and self-blame overwhelming him.

Kakashi's expression softened, understanding etched on his face. He squatted beside Sasuke, a gentle hand on his shoulder.

"How can I face her?" Sasuke whispered, breaths ragged.

Kakashi's grip on his shoulder tightened reassuringly. "Sasuke, I was wrong. My words were uncalled for, driven by emotion."

Sasuke glanced up, his eyes welling anew.

"I cut you down to calm my own fears," Kakashi continued. "Unfair and unworthy of a sensei. I let you down."

Remorse filled Kakashi's voice. "I'm truly sorry, Sasuke. No need to forgive me, but let me make amends, let me train you for the final round." Determination sparked in his eyes. "Go see Shanan tomorrow. Hold her hand. It would bring her joy."

Sasuke nodded, resolve firm.

"Thank you for saving me from the dark, Kakashi..." Her words hung in the air, a delicate thread weaving their hearts closer. "Even though you're still afraid," she added, her empathy clear.

Kakashi's expression softened, a silent acknowledgment of her profound understanding. His eyes closed, savoring the warmth of her presence—the comfort she bestowed felt like a faint light cutting through the shadows of his past.

A heartbeat passed, filled with unspoken emotions, before she spoke again.

"Maybe... after I train at the academy, I can be brave and come back so you're not alone."

Kakashi's eyes locked onto hers, a mix of surprise and warmth washing over him. A lump formed in his throat as his eyes welled up. His voice cracked with emotion as he asked, "You'd do that for me?" The words hung in the air, heavy with vulnerability, each syllable infused with wonder.

Shanan nodded, determination etched on her face. "You helped me, Kakashi. I wanna help you, too."

His smile, tinged with melancholy, held a glimmer of hope. Shanan's promise resonated deeply within him. No one had ever offered to stand alongside him in the darkness before.

Shanan reclined comfortably on her couch, lost in the celestial canvas above. Time's passage blurred, its meaning diminished since her arrival. Kakashi's sudden departure still lingered, unlike his previous visits where goodbyes were exchanged.

She withheld this detail, knowing Kakashi's concern would swell, discovering her solitude in darkness.

Yet, in his presence, darkness dissipated, replaced by an ethereal glow.

Shanan's thoughts swirled, aware Kakashi would struggle to grasp this paradox.

Though Kakashi had saved her life as a child, he didn't seem to fully understand the depth of that rescue. Yet, his departures didn't fill her with fear. The stars shone brightly, and the galaxy's radiant beauty enveloped her.

She wished she could share this wonder with Kakashi and thought she should ask him about astronomy next time they met. Knowing him, they would likely engage in a captivating conversation, exchanging new discoveries and insights.

Their discussions always flowed effortlessly, covering a wide range of topics. Kakashi's vast knowledge, nurtured by his love of reading, mirrored her own. Hours would disappear in enlightening conversations, strengthening their bond.

Naruto would delight in seeing the galaxy, she thought warmly, longing to share this experience with him. Among her cherished bonds, Naruto's absence weighed heaviest on her heart. She yearned to hold him close, pointing out constellations together, and drift off to sleep with him safely in her arms.

Sleep had eluded her in this isolated place. Only Kakashi's visits and the chakra's stirrings within her hinted at time's passage. Her chakra, though unusable, sensed her inner turmoil, twisting and turning restlessly, seeking balance.

Sasuke's absence puzzled her. Like Kakashi, he likely blamed himself, misconstruing his distance as a favor. But Shanan's heart ached for his presence, her emotions intertwined with his.

In this eerie stillness, chakra remained her sole connection to the world outside, its agitation echoing her own longing for reunion.

Shanan sat up, her eyes fixed on the village, awaiting Kakashi's return amidst the soothing beeping sound drifting from the village edge. Its steady rhythm kindled hope, calming her worries.

As she gazed at the galaxy's familiar glow, the eastern horizon caught her attention. A delicate magenta hue crept across the sky.

"Kakashi?" she whispered, turning around, but the silence remained unbroken.

Her eyes returned to the horizon, now brighter, dawn's promise unfolding.

Time stood still as Shanan sat mesmerized by the frozen dawn, its magenta hue unwavering. Minutes or hours blurred together in anticipation of the sun's rise, but it remained poised on the horizon.

Unprecedented and mysterious, this liminal sky held her captive.

Then, epiphany struck.

With a trembling hand, she lifted her palm, warmth radiating from it.

Eyes closed, a gentle smile spread across her face.

"Sasuke…"

Shanan's eyes fluttered open in the hospital room, where both boys waited anxiously. Sasuke's gentle grasp on her hand radiated warmth and comfort, his head resting on the side of her bed, his soft breathing a soothing melody. Naruto's concerned gaze met hers, his eyebrows furrowed, yet a soft smile played on his lips.

"Sis!" Naruto whispered, sitting beside her and enveloping her in a gentle hug. Tears streamed down Shanan's face as she weakly returned his embrace, breathing in his familiar scent. She longed to squeeze him tightly and cover his face with kisses, but exhaustion constrained her.

"Naruto, my little sweetie…" she whispered, her voice trembling.

Normally, Naruto would deflect her maternal affection, but now he yielded, nestling comfortably in her arms. His face crumpled, his eyes welling up as he clutched her tightly.

"You're really okay?" he asked, his voice shaking.

"Yeah, I'm ok…" She replied through tears. "I'm sorry I scared you."

Naruto's grip tightened, his forehead resting on her shoulder.

Now that she was awake, memories flooded back. Every detail, every decision. Guilt settled in. She shouldn't have pushed herself so hard, breaking her promise to Kakashi. Sasuke's presence was meant to ease his mind, but she should've known better. Witnessing her strong bond with Kakashi would ignite Sasuke's jealousy, and her thoughtlessness had likely hurt him.

And if not for Kakashi's timely rescue, Naruto would face devastating loss.

Self-reproach shadowed her thoughts.

She planted a kiss onto the top of Naruto's head and as they clung to one another, she took a few deep breaths, assessing her condition. Nothing seemed to hurt, except for a lingering headache.

Shanan's gentle question broke the silence. "How were the Chunin Exams?"

Naruto sniffled, resting his chin on her, eyes darting to Sasuke.

"Well… not too bad. But…" His voice trailed, hesitation hanging in the air.

Just then, Sasuke sat up abruptly, realizing he wasn't dreaming, and Shanan was truly awake. Relief washed over his face as he moved closer, taking her hand in both of his.

"I'm sorry," he whispered, lips brushing against her hand, his teary eyes locked onto hers. "I didn't mean to—"

Shanan's whisper soothed him. "Sasuke..."

Her gaze held understanding, knowing he blamed himself for urging her to try the technique, for his competitiveness, and for opposing Kakashi.

She reached out, gently cupping Sasuke's face.

"You didn't do anything wrong, Sasuke." Forgiveness shone in her eyes, calming his guilt-ridden heart.

Naruto leaned back, watching with a warm smile as Shanan and Sasuke shared a tender moment, healing emotional wounds.

She sat up slowly, determination etched on her face, and pulled Sasuke against her chest. Tears streamed into his hair as his soaked her shirt. He slowly wrapped his arms around her waist and sobbed against her for several minutes.

"I'm so, so sorry," he whispered, his voice cracking.

Shanan kissed him repeatedly on top of his head, holding him close.

"This was my fault, Sasuke. Please stop blaming yourself. I'm the one who's sorry," she whispered, conviction in her voice.

They held onto each other, minutes ticking by, as their chakras intertwined, calming their turbulent emotions. Shanan's headache still lingered, nauseating, but she breathed through it, focusing on the soothing harmony of their energies.

Her gaze fell upon Sasuke's neck, and her eyes widened in shock. A glimpse of the seal exposed itself. She gently brushed his hair aside, her other hand pulling his shirt collar down. The full seal was revealed.

"Is this a curse seal?!" Shanan's voice trembled.

Sasuke's eyes closed, reluctance etched on his face, fear of disappointment weighing upon him. Naruto's expression turned grim, concern deepening his gaze.

Shanan's gaze darted to Naruto, pleading for answers.

"I know what curse seals are. I've seen them. But why does Sasuke have one?" New tears welled up, threatening to spill. She gazed down at Sasuke, the seal seeming to mock her.

Naruto shifted uncomfortably, scratching his head.

"Sasuke, I can just tell her," he suggested gently.

Sasuke hesitated, wanting to delay the truth. But Naruto's words nudged him.

"Yeah," he whispered, resignation heavy in his voice.

Shanan's eyes returned to Naruto, sadness welling within them.

"Tell me," she urged softly.

Naruto took a deep breath, his expression solemn. "It happened during the Chunin Exams," he began, his words unfolding the painful story. "Sasuke was bitten by someone named Orochimaru, which is how he was cursed," Naruto said quietly.

Shanan's hand flew to her mouth, horror etched on her face as she gazed down at Sasuke, feeling his tears on her other hand. She stroked his hair gently, tears streaming down her face onto him.

Naruto's explanation poured out, soothing her concern. "Kakashi Sensei sealed the curse, so it should help. It was just really scary. He lost control for a bit..."

The room fell silent, weighted with Sasuke's guilt and shame. Shanan's heart ached, sensing his regret. Her mind reeled, processing the revelation. But her heart knew the truth – he was hurting, and she needed to be there for him.

With a tender touch, she cradled his face, her eyes locked on his.

"Hey, it's okay," she whispered softly. "I should've been there... I'm so sorry, this is all my fault," she sobbed.

Sasuke sat up, enveloping Shanan in a warm embrace, holding her close.

Naruto shook his head, chuckling softly. "You guys are killing me. Just tell her it's not her fault already."

Sasuke shot Naruto a glance, irritation flashing in his eyes. The curse mark had left him raw, his temper simmering just below the surface. He leaned back, his gaze softening as he looked at her. "He's right, Shanan. I let my guard down... I was scared."

Shanan's thoughts swirled, guilt washing over her. She replayed her fall in her mind, knowing she shouldn't have attempted the technique. Responsibility weighed heavily on her shoulders.

Kakashi and Sasuke blamed themselves, but Shanan couldn't shake the feeling that everything was her fault. No matter their words, her heart clung to the burden of guilt.