A/N: Finally have this chapter up! Wanted to get it up last weekend/early this week, but real life kept delaying it, lol (including a minor eye infection on top of my double ear infection, apparently from the ear meds lowering my immune system, LMAO)! So, now that I'm all better, I can finally post! Really excited for this chapter and hope it's all right! Initially, I didn't think I had enough ideas for it, haha, but obviously, by the word count, that didn't end up being a problem! lol. I just hope I did everyone justice! I did my best!

Time for the shoutouts!

Thanks to PierceHellAbove on FFN for the idea of Tenten using chakra strings: "She also has the control necessary for chakra strings." (I love this idea, and I did my best to work it in well!)

Thanks to Dancibayo on AO3 for for helping me figure out the Kakashi-Gai section! While I enjoy and can write the goofier Gai moments, I've always felt more confident writing more serious Gai moments (part of the reason I was hesitant to use Gai much, considering his more...exuberant moments are funny, but I'm more of a serious writer, lol). (Much appreciated! You're the best!)

Team Kurenai doesn't stay too much longer. Once Naruto's lunch arrives, they opt to head home, tired from their long mission. They promise to visit soon and make him promise to try to take it easy for once (not that they're holding their breath, but they trust Shikamaru to keep him in line).

Finally getting some peace and quiet and with his stomach full, Naruto takes a small nap, still a little drained after his trip down traumatic memory lane. Shikamaru watches over him while he sleeps, reading over Team Kurenai's mission report that Shino handed him on the way out. He keeps the healing ointment Hinata left on the nightstand to run by Lady Tsunade when she visits next.

A few hours later, Naruto's awake and feeling better. Shikamaru's glad to see it, and he's offering to tell him a little more about Team Kurenai's mission when they hear pounding footsteps in the hallway.

They look at each other with raised eyebrows. More visitors? Of course, then Shikamaru counts how many days it's been, and…oh…

Taking a deep breath, he steels himself and smirks. "This oughta be good…"

Naruto isn't quite sure what he means. "What? What will be?"

The door slide-slams open as if to answer, and Team Gai rushes in as one—only to promptly get stuck. They struggle and grumble and argue about the best way to get out, Lee trying to make it a competition with Neji as Gai cheers them on and an exhausted Tenten begs him not to encourage them.

All the while, just watching all this, Shikamaru stares with a look of mild horror on his face, eyebrow twitching, before he sighs wearily. Never mind… This is going to get weird before it gets good (and he's betting even that will be weird). He should have expected as much from Team Gai… At his side, Naruto is laughing his head off, one arm around his stomach while he points at the group with the other, and Shikamaru can't help breathing a laugh with a helpless smirk. He supposes he can live with their shenanigans if it makes Naruto laugh like that…

Finally, Lee, being the smallest of them, sucks in as much air as he can and squeezes out from between his teammates, which lets the others finally get through. Gai is quick to congratulate his pupil, offering his signature grin and thumbs up. "Great thinking, Lee!"

Lee returns it wholeheartedly. "Thank you, sensei!"

Neji and Tenten know they could retort, but they also know it's not worth it. They just sigh and give each other a commiserating look. Honestly…

Naruto, for his part, is just calming down from his laughing fit. "You guys are hilarious!" He takes a moment to wipe his eyes and get his breath back, then smiles brightly. "Thanks! I think I needed that!"

Like a flipped switch, all attention in the room suddenly shifts to him. Lee and Gai's eyes instantly fill with tears, Tenten covers her mouth as her own emotions well, and Neji looks over his injuries intently, even activating his Byakugan to check on his legs. Naruto's eyes widen, and he's about to ask what's up when two pairs of strong arms wrap around him from both sides and two tear-flooded faces press against his.

"You are okay!" Lee shout-sobs, squeezing Naruto tighter and rubbing their cheeks together.

"We were so worried!" Gai bolsters, just as emotional. "Thank goodness you're all right, Naruto!"

Despite being partially scolded right now, Naruto isn't about to let an opportunity for a hug from these two pass him by. He hugs them back as tightly as he can. "I'm really, really sorry!" he apologizes, rubbing his cheeks against theirs. "I swear I never meant to worry any of you! It won't happen again, I promise!"

Neji perks up at that last part, but before he can say anything, Gai sobs a bit and shakes his head a few times. "Don't you worry your precious little head about us! You're the one recovering!"

Lee nods, sniffling. "Gai-sensei is right, Naruto! Please think about yourself for once!"

Naruto laughs sheepishly, and Shikamaru and Neji both sigh. At this point, they genuinely think he doesn't know how…

Tenten nods, wiping her eyes with the back of her hand. "We appreciate the apology, but they're right, ya know! You're the one in the hospital here! We were just on a training mission," she points at Neji and Lee, "mostly so these two wouldn't keep trying to sleep here until you woke up!"

"Hmm?" Naruto glances at Shikamaru to confirm, and he nods. Yep, it's true. Neji and Lee visited all the time, mostly together, and they'd tried to sleep here a few times so they wouldn't have to leave Naruto, but the nurses had kicked them out. They didn't have special permission like Shikamaru or sneak in past visiting hours and leave before morning rounds like Sakura.

Naruto looks between the two. Naturally, Lee isn't ashamed at all, and Neji isn't either, the light blush on his face notwithstanding. It's more out of frustration at getting caught than any real embarrassment. "We wanted to be here for you, Naruto!" Lee explains.

Neji nods. "We didn't want you to be alone." Realizing how that might sound to Shikamaru, though, he looks his way to clarify, but Shikamaru's already waving a hand and smiling. He knows what he meant. Neji relaxes and smiles back, grateful. All they want out of this is for Naruto to feel safe and loved. That's all.

All of it just makes Naruto smile softly, adoration swirling in his chest. "Thanks so much, you guys…"

Once Lee and Gai finally let him go, Naruto remembers the rest of what Tenten said. "Oh, yeah!" He balls his fists at half-mast excitedly. "So, how'd your training mission go anyway? Did ya learn anything cool?"

Shikamaru snorts, dropping his chin into his hand with a fond smirk. Of course his brain's already shifting back into training mode. Sheesh… Maybe he should count himself lucky that the kid's legs aren't working yet or he'd be running him ragged…

Tenten raises her hand. "Ooh, ooh!" She wiggles her fingers toward him, smile excited and proud. "I'm really starting to get the hang of using chakra strings! I'm getting a lot better at throwing, recalling, and even switching weapons at will with them, too!"

Naruto gasps, stars in his eyes. "No way! You're learning how to use chakra strings like Kankuro?!" Tenten nods, a shy, happy little hum escaping. "That's so cool! I didn't know that!" Then, remembering something from Kankuro's visit, he can't help but smirk her way. "Was that part of your sparring match?"

Tenten blushes and looks away, fiddling with her fingers. Why does Naruto have to be so observant?! "M-maybe! He's—he's the one who suggested I try them, actually, saying they'd be a good fit for me with my chakra control. He said if I could get them to pair well with my weapons, it could be really useful in battle."

Chuckling triumphantly, Naruto grins. "That's awesome, Tenten! I'm really happy for you! He's right, too! They would be a good fit for you!"

Somehow, she gets the feeling he's talking about more than just her new jutsu, but either way, she flushes a little more, a confident smile lighting her face. "T-thanks, Naruto! I think so, too! I'm—I'm really excited to see where it goes!"

Naruto's smile grows, and he flashes a thumbs up. "Best of luck, then! I know you can do it!"

Tenten beams, and she swears it just makes knowing he's okay more emotional for her. She might not have shown it as much as the others, wanting to try to be a rock for her frazzled team, but…she was really worried about him, too. She's so glad everything turned out okay…

Lee speaks up next, as enthusiastic about training as always. "I have not developed anything new myself, but Neji, Gai-sensei, and I sparred in a lot of different ways, including blindfolded and hanging upside down from a cliff," Naruto isn't nearly as surprised as Shikamaru; that sounds just like the outrageous training Naruto's seen Team Gai do over the years, "and it was really quite invigorating!" His eyes light up as an idea strikes. "Perhaps you should come with us next time, Naruto!"

"Hey, I'll try anything once!" Naruto rubs the back of his head. "It probably won't be for a while, though, with my legs an' all, and I'm not sure I'd actually be able to keep up with you guys…"

Lee waves a hand. "Please do not worry! That is more than all right! We realize our training can be hard for others to adjust to!" He beams and curls excited fists as half-mast. "The important thing is that it will be all the more enjoyable with you there, Naruto!"

Naruto beams and chuckles, a shy blush coloring his cheeks. "G-gee, thanks!"

"Naruto."

Neji's been quiet this whole time, just observing and letting his teammates hash out their feelings and have their time with Naruto, but now that things have calmed down, he wants to get to the bottom of something Naruto said before.

Naruto looks over, blinking at his serious expression. "Neji? What's up?"

Thinking back to the injuries he saw, the worst in Naruto's legs with his Byakugan, Neji draws a deep, cleansing breath before meeting his friend's eyes. It's good to see those comforting blues again. For a while there, he was afraid he never would. "Earlier, you promised us something like this would never happen again. What exactly did you mean by that?"

Naruto winces, good mood instantly assassinated. Leave it to Neji to be so observant and not beat around the bush… Now he almost wishes he wouldn't have said anything. But he doesn't regret apologizing, not for a second, and like with all the others, he knows he'll have to tell them about his decision eventually. He doesn't want them to have to worry about him anymore, to have to sneak around and possibly get in trouble with Granny Tsunade and go on an extended training mission just to be able to sleep through the night. They deserve to know.

More than that, he wants them to know. This decision is hard on him, maybe the hardest he's ever had to make, but…he also knows in his heart that it's the right one, just like Pervy Sage wanted him to be able to judge on his own. And knowing that, while he's almost certain they'll be happy about what he's decided, he wants to make sure. He doesn't want anyone to be hurt or blindsided. Besides, if he's right, this should be one of the last times he'll have to repeat it, and it is getting easier to voice the more he does it, just like he hoped, so…

To be completely honest…he hasn't let go of Sasuke in his heart yet, and he's not sure if he'll ever completely be able to forget about him like Pervy Sage asked of him. He doesn't think the others expect him to, not even Granny Tsunade (she still remembers Orochimaru, after all), and if he always holds on to a piece of Sasuke, even if just as a reminder of what not to repeat in the future, then…he hopes that's all right, too. He's still confident that he'll be able to dismiss him from his mind and move on, move forward, the way Pervy Sage always wanted, and with his friends, his family, by his side?

Shikamaru takes his hand in a show of support, and Naruto wraps his back around two times stronger, a tiny smile lighting his face. He thinks…that sounds pretty good. Hell, from where things stand now, it sounds amazing.

Like a future he wants to see. A future worth fighting for.

Living for.

To say they're shocked is an understatement. But once Naruto starts explaining…things start making more sense.

Still, being on the original Sasuke Retrieval squad, half of this team has more of a stake in this than just about anyone else, besides Team Kakashi, Kiba (and Akamaru), Choji, and Shikamaru, and that's why Naruto's so concerned. He needs to make sure they understand why he's doing this.

It's why he bows his head as low as he can to them now, pain be damned. "I know you and Lee fought as hard as you could to get Sasuke back years ago, Neji, and I still appreciate everything you guys did! Please don't think I don't! I can't tell you how much I love you for that!" Tears sting his eyes, and he curls fists in his sheets. Shikamaru's hand on his back is a warm comfort he's not sure he deserves. "Neji, you—you almost died for it—!" His voice breaks, and Neji's frown deepens, the others', too. "I…I still hate that I couldn't help you then…and I don't…I don't want you to think I'm ungrateful! That's—that's the last thing I'd ever feel about this, I swear!"

He swallows thickly, sniffs, a few tears falling. "But I…I can't keep doing this, chasing Sasuke like this…! I'm scaring everyone, I'm hurting the people I love, a-all of you, and that's…I can't do it anymore…not for someone like him…! I…I couldn't live with myself, kn-knowing what I know now…!"

Things are quiet for a long few moments, and then…a gentle hand comes to rest on Naruto's head. "For someone with such remarkable eyes…you really can be blind."

Naruto lifts his head to find Neji fixing him with the softest look he ever has, like he's the most precious thing in his entire world, and he…doesn't know what to do with that. A shy-touched blush colors his cheeks. "H-huh?"

Carding his fingers through Naruto's hair slowly, tenderly, maybe a few extra times with the way Naruto all-too-happily leans into it (he doesn't know if he'll ever get this opportunity again, after all), doing his best not to think about how close he came to losing the most influential person in his life, Neji melts a little more and gently pokes the star of his face. "I told you once that sometimes your eyes are even better than mine." Recognition dawns instantly for Naruto, and Neji nods. "The day we went after Sasuke, I wanted to get him back, yes, but not for my sake. To be honest, I agreed with Shikamaru in that I never liked him much in the first place." A heartbeat. "I did it for you, Naruto, and I'd do it again." Naruto's eyes widen and breath catches. "It's true that we were worried about you going after Sasuke all these years, and we never wanted you to torture yourself over him, but none of us have ever really cared about how we feel. We've always been at our best when you are happy, Naruto," Naruto's heart pounds, "and if that means letting Sasuke go, then we're all for it."Neji takes a seat beside him on the bed, crossing his arms over his chest. "Frankly, I'd say it's about time."

Stepping up on Naruto's other side, Lee rests a hand on his shoulder. "Neji is right, Naruto." His voice is gentle and kind, understanding, smile matching. "We do not think you are ungrateful at all. I believe that is one of the last words we would ever use to describe you. In fact, I think we are all very relieved to hear that you are thinking of yourself as well as us for a change." He chuckles sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head, and the others are quick to join in. Shikamaru cackles into his hand, while Neji more politely hides his laughter in his sleeve. Tenten apologizes after her own small bout, but Gai has no such qualms, throwing his head back to laugh out loud. Naruto just blinks at them uncomprehendingly (which just makes Shikamaru laugh harder). Once they calm down, Lee goes on. "I know your friends have always been and will always be your first priority, and I respect you for that. I find it very admirable. But devotion is a two-way street, Naruto, so please," he squeezes his shoulder, "please know that you are our first priority as well." He winks, grins, and offers an encouraging thumbs up. "There is no need to beat yourself up over this anymore. We think you are making the right choice."

Naruto's openly gaping at him, then the rest, eyes blown wide and teary for a completely different reason this time. He's…their priority…? Their…their first…? This team and Shikamaru, all of his friends'…? It takes him a long few moments to find his voice, and when he does, it's semi-strangled with emotion. "'The right'...? Y-you do? Really?"

"Well, yeah! Of course!" Tenten raises an eyebrow at him, planting her hands on her hips. "You really think we're just going to stand by Sasuke almost killing you once, let alone twice, and not hate his guts for the rest of our lives?!" She crosses her arms and huffs, pouting a bit. "What kind of friends do you take us for?" Given a moment, she softens. "Seriously, Naruto…you're like a little brother to all of us. We just want you safe and happy, and Sasuke was never going to be that for you. Even you have to see that by now."

Naruto blinks, but he nods. "Y-yeah, I…I get it, don't worry."

Neji nods in agreement. He's already offered what he thinks of the situation, but still. "No question. Like I said, the way I see it, this is long overdue."

Gai sets a large hand on Naruto's shoulder, and he looks up. Gai's eyes are full of tears, which isn't exactly uncommon, but Naruto's not used to having it directed at him, not like this. "Uh…Gai-sensei? Are you—?"

Gai sniffs, and then his arms are around Naruto, pulling him in close. "I'm so proud of you, Naruto!"

For a moment, Naruto is frozen. This is different from the combined hug he got from him and Lee before. He's never been hugged by Gai-sensei alone before… It's tight, almost suffocating, which he always figured, but not in a bad way. There's a poignant gentleness to it, too, that Naruto can't quite name. It's all-encompassing and protective, and his hand is cradling the back of Naruto's head like he's something indescribably precious… He doesn't think he can be blamed when he has to squeeze his eyes shut against touched tears as he hugs him back as tightly as he can. "T-thank you, Gai-sensei…!"

Gai just holds him closer. This kid… He might not get to interact with him much, not nearly as much as he'd like, but that doesn't mean he doesn't adore him. How could he possibly not? He's done so much for all of his students. He gave Neji the wake-up call he needed, a completely different perspective on life, changed him for the better in every way. He's encouraged and been there for and been a friend to both Lee and Tenten when almost no one else was. Gai's heard from the other senseis and seen for himself how much Naruto's done the same for the rest of the Konoha 11 and company, too. And for all of that, he's never asked for a single thing in return, of any of them. All he's ever wanted is for them to acknowledge and accept him for who he is instead of what, to be his friend, the most precious thing in the world to him.

And as if that weren't enough, he's done so much more than he knows for Kakashi, too. Naruto doesn't know what Kakashi was like before Team 7 was formed, doesn't know everything he's been through, doesn't know the darkness he's been lost in, but if he did…he'd know just how much he's helped his sensei, just how much he's changed him, that he's still changing him, every day, bit by bit. A person would have to know Kakashi well to see it, but…that just comes with the territory of being his eternal rival, he 's seen Kakashi's fragile heart be ruthlessly shattered time and again over the years, and he knows better than anyone that he's only just started being able to painstakingly piece it back together in the last few. Now more than ever, he wishes he could tell Naruto everything so he could thank him properly… But it's not his place or the right time, so this hug will have to do, at least for now.

He meant what he said about being proud of Naruto for his decision, too. He knows how much this Sasuke debacle has been hurting Naruto, and he's hated it since the day the Uchiha left the village. It's been weighing on all of Team 7 ever since, but none more so than Naruto, who took it upon himself to bring Sasuke back. He even went so far as to leave the village to train with Master Jiraiya for two-and-a-half years to get stronger so he could bring him back home. But…knowing when people are worth it is one of the toughest, yet most important lessons life has to offer, and he's glad Naruto's finally realized that Sasuke isn't. Honestly, Gai was beginning to worry that he never would, and he knows everyone else who cares about Naruto was fearing the exact same thing. So knowing that he's giving up on him so he can focus on the rest of them… Honestly, Gai couldn't be prouder and more relieved if he tried.

That and all the rest are why he makes sure to pour all of his love and appreciation into this embrace. This incredible, golden-hearted child… He deserves it more than anyone.

When they separate a minute or so later, Naruto wipes his eyes and looks over when Shikamaru nudges him, only to have him grin and ruffle his hair. That reassurance is the last piece Naruto needed to know everything really is okay. He sighs in relief and beams at all his friends. "Thanks so much, you guys! You're the best!"

They talk for an hour or two more, till the sun starts to set, and then Gai sets his hands on his hips with a flourish. "All right, my beloved students, what do you say we head home? It's getting late, and it's been a long mission! You've all more than earned a good rest!"

Tenten immediately moves to protest, fists balled pleadingly at her chest. "Aw, but sensei! We've barely gotten any time with Naruto! Can't we stay just a little bit longer?"

Gai ruffles her hair with a loud, fond laugh, making her pout. "Now, Tenten. I know I've taught you that hard training only pays off if your body can keep up, and it can only do that when you get proper rest. Eating a good meal and heading to bed early is exactly what this team needs to be in tip top shape for training tomorrow morning!"

Tenten deflates, eyes comically huge and teary. "But—but we just got back from a training mission! We have to get back to it already?"

"That's right!" He winks and puts his fingers about a half-inch apart. "It'll only be a half-day so we don't push ourselves too far, but we still have to give it our all!" He strikes a pose. "The power of youth compels us!"

Lee cheers, gleefully pumping his fists, while Tenten groans and once again regrets her life choices. She should be used to this by now, but somehow, her sensei still manages to sneak this stuff up on her…

Naruto, meanwhile, is practically salivating at the idea of training. "Training…" he murmurs longingly.

At his side, Shikamaru snorts. "Don't start. You can't even stand up, genius, how exactly do you expect to train?" He knocks their knees together. "You just got back the use of your right arm a few days ago. Take it easy, will ya? Unless you want me to be gray before I'm eighteen."

Naruto sighs and slumps. "I guess not…"

Shikamaru wheezes a laugh, smile growing. He can't help it with him, he swears. "You guess?"

"You three can go on ahead. I'll catch up," Neji announces suddenly, all eyes turning to him. His gaze moves to their youngest, expression softening. "I want to discuss a few things with Naruto."

Naruto just stares, blinking questioningly, while Gai nods. "All right, Neji. Just don't take too long. I'm sure Naruto needs his rest."

A nod. "Of course. Understood."

Ruffling Naruto's hair again, Gai winks his way. "I'll be rooting for the power of youth to speed up your recovery, Naruto! We'll be back to check on you soon!"

Naruto grins. "Thanks, Gai-sensei! I appreciate it! Have a good time training tomorrow!"

Tenten looks between them with a whine in the back of her throat. "Oh, fine! But if we're leaving, at least let me…!"

Flitting to Naruto's side, she throws her arms around his neck and hugs him tightly, burying her face in his shoulder. Naruto forgets to breathe for a moment. This is another first for him. Her hugs are so…warm, and he can feel her smiling into his shoulder. She takes the moment to breathe him in, long and slow, and her breath tickles his neck when she lets it out, only to melt into his arms a little more with relief. Her voice is soft and low, warm just like the arms around him. "I'm so glad you're all right… I wanted to be strong for the others, but you had me worried sick, you know…"

He doesn't dare pass up the opportunity to hug her back, which just makes her tighten her hold on him. She's so small, but fierce, too. He's always admired that about her. "Sorry about that. I really didn't mean to, I promise."

She breathes a laugh and shakes her head, lightly knocking it against his for a second. "Hey, no need to apologize. You already did, and I forgave you. Just…" she lets out another breath, "…let us know if you need anything, okay?" Her voice is sweeter than before somehow, and he relaxes a little more. He's secretly always found her voice comforting. "I know you have Shikamaru, but…still. We're all here for you. Don't forget that."

He nods as she slowly pulls away. "D-don't worry, I won't forget. I'll keep you posted." His smile is warm and bright. "Thanks, Tenten!" He wiggles his fingers toward her, unable to help himself. "Good luck with those chakra strings of yours! I know you'll be great!"

She beams, a light blush coming. Again, she gets the idea he's talking about more than just her training. "T-thanks, Naruto!"

Unable to help himself, Lee sneaks in one last hug, too, and Naruto laughs, immediately hugging him back. "I have adjusted my personal training regimen to pass this way a few times a week, so if you need anything, please let me know as well! No matter what it is, I will do my best to procure it for you!"

Naruto nods, mimicking his friend's usual wink, grin, and thumbs up. "You got it! Thanks, Bushy Brow!"

Lee returns the gesture, chuckling at the familiar nickname. "Of course! You were there for me while I was recovering from my fight with Gaara, so I will be here for you!"

All that said and done, Gai points toward the door with his signature toothy grin. "Okay, team, let's go!"

Naruto, Shikamaru, and Neji bid them goodbye as they take their leave, and then it's quiet in the hospital room. It's a welcome reprieve.

"So, uh…what'd you wanna talk to me about?"

Neji's gaze drifts, and he hums thoughtfully. It's true that he wanted to talk to Naruto alone, but now that he's here…he's not quite sure how to approach it. Of course... He smiles softly. Naruto never lets that stop him, just says what's on his mind, so…maybe he should take a page out of his book for once.

Turning back to his friend (his benefactor, even savior, in his mind), he does just that.

"I know you're still conflicted about your decision about Sasuke." Naruto's breath stops in his chest, but he doesn't deny it. "Not so much the decision itself as the pain it brings you and your anxiety about how the rest of us will feel." A patient smile paints Neji's lips. "I won't tell you not to worry because I know you will anyway. That's just how you are. But I will say this." He eyes Naruto seriously, and Naruto knows to listen closely. "You know you can't do anything for Sasuke anymore. He's long been beyond our help, maybe even since the beginning, and we just couldn't see it. You also know that you deserve better. You always have."

He reaches out to poke Naruto's heart gently. "So don't let this—" this, giving up on Sasuke, finally understanding everything with such excruciating clarity and wondering why he didn't (couldn't? didn't want to?) before, "—be your cage." Naruto's eyes widen at the phrasing, and he watches Neji lift his headband just enough to let him glimpse his Caged Bird Curse Mark, Shikamaru, too. "You helped free me from mine," his smile grows and softens at once, "so I'll do anything I can to help free you from yours."

Naruto is struck speechless, understanding the weight of his offer better than anyone else ever could. He can't tell him how much it means to him. After a moment, he nods slowly, eyes never leaving Neji's. He's not surprised to feel a lump trying to form in his throat. His voice is quiet and touched, a little choked up, when he finally finds it. "T-thank you, Neji. I…I understand. I'll do my best."

Neji breathes a laugh, smile widening a little more. "I wasn't worried. You never give us anything less."

"And…" Naruto motions toward his heart, "…and if I need help, I'll…" a small smile, "…I'll tell you, okay?"

Neji nods, a small, relieved breath leaving him, some of the tension in his shoulders, too. "Please do, any time. No matter when, I'll be here. Thank you, Naruto."

Of course, Neji's advice and seeing his Curse Mark remind Naruto of how Sasuke was when they fought, and…his gaze drifts to his injuries. His smile falls, and his friends notice the change in atmosphere immediately. Naruto laughs at himself, but it's wry, ashamed. "You may have been right when you called me a loser when we met, you know that?" He raises the hand he couldn't move until a few days ago. "I had to have it beaten into me twice," he clenches a tight fist, "to see that Sasuke isn't worth it…"

Isn't, huh? Well, that's progress. Shikamaru will take it. Still…he wishes Naruto wouldn't be so hard on himself. Hell, look at Master Jiraiya. He was an adult, well into his fifties, and he almost lost his life way more than twice before he finally got it through his head that Orochimaru was a lost cause. Frankly, he's relieved Naruto caught on so soon, all things considered (though he knows it's in large part due to his master's advice that Naruto was able to do so, and he'll always be grateful).

Neji, for his part, isn't about to let that stand. He still wants to Eight Trigrams his younger self into next week for being such a whiny, holier-than-thou brat back then. Reaching out, he tilts Naruto's chin up with gentle fingers, expression dead serious. "You're wrong, Naruto. You want to see the good in people, and you want to believe everyone can be saved through love and acceptance, just like you were. That's not naïve, it's admirable." He chuckles. "I may have only met Master Jiraiya a few times, but even I could tell, you two were a lot alike that way."

Naruto's eyes widen at being compared to his master, heart hammering in his chest. A slip of heartache comes in like it always does, but ultimately, it makes him smile lovingly, too. His teeth even make an appearance in his pride, a light blush dusting his cheeks. Glad to see it, Shikamaru, too, Neji goes on. "There's nothing wrong with that. There's nothing wrong with having a good heart, an open one, even in our harsh ninja world. It's what's let you change me and so many others for the better." Kakashi-sensei told him the same thing… Shikamaru nods in complete agreement. Naruto's heart, its power, truly is an incredible thing to behold.

"And what Sasuke did to you…" Neji clenches a fist. "It has nothing to do with you, not really. You're just…good, through and through, Naruto, and Sasuke…" He takes a breath. "That darkness I talked about on our mission to get him back, the darkness he was lost in…" recognition flashes in Naruto's eyes once more, and Neji can't help but marvel; he must commit every interaction with all of them to memory, take them to heart, no matter how small, "…he's let it swallow him up completely, taint his soul, and once someone goes down that path…"

He shakes his head, frown fierce, brow turning down in a sharp line. "No one can reach him now. He had no regard for the life of his own comrade, discarded her like trash when she wasn't of use to him anymore..." The very idea makes his knuckles crack, teeth clench so hard that they groan, sharp eyes glare so heatedly that it's a wonder the wall behind Naruto's head isn't on fire. "It makes me sick. It's the lowest of the low…" In his book and all of the Konoha 11's. Maybe because it's…it's nearly the same thing Sasuke did to Naruto years ago…

It takes Naruto a moment to realize Neji's talking about the mysterious redheaded woman he keeps hearing about, the one Sai told them Kakashi-sensei picked up a few weeks back. He knows he's probably not supposed to, but he can't help empathizing with her, Neji's words also reminding him of his fight with Sasuke in the Valley of the End. Just thinking about it gets him curling a fist in his hospital gown opposite his heart. Shikamaru's breath catches at the sight, and it's not lost on Neji either. Maybe, when he sees Granny Tsunade next, he can convince her to let him see this girl or have her brought to him if he still can't walk by then. He'd at least like to let her know she's not alone…

"My point is," Neji says, quieter and calmer now, snapping Naruto out of his thoughts, "you are the farthest thing from a loser." Naruto blinks, and Neji smirks a bit. "If you ask me, you're a genius."

Naruto does a double-take. "W-wait, what?! Did you hit your head during training or something, ponytail?! I was dead-last in the Academy, and I had to cheat to know a single answer on the Chunin Exam! I'm the farthest thing in the world from a genius!"

Neji, collected as ever, just breathes a laugh. "By most standards, perhaps. But your unorthodox strategies in the heat of battle are extremely formidable and, most importantly, your emotional intelligence is off the charts." He raises an eyebrow, his smirk growing and softening at once. "There's more than one kind of genius, you know."

Naruto just stares in disbelief, a bright blush creeping up his ears.

"He's got a point, Naruto," Shikamaru encourages, grinning at him like he doesn't have a doubt in his mind (because he doesn't).

"Y-you, too, Shikamaru?" He's pretty sure he's started sweating from the pressure. "You guys are giving me way too much credit…"

Neji chuckles, a soft, proud smile on his face. "On the contrary, I'd say this is just one more thing that's long overdue." He looks out at the clear sky as two birds fly past the window. "You know, someone once once told me that destiny is not a matter of chance, it's a matter of choice. It's not a thing to be waited for, but a thing to be achieved." Naruto's eyes widen, and Neji comes back to meet them, sure and grounding. "The destiny you've chosen to achieve is the tile of Hokage." Reaching out, he taps twice under Naruto's chin and grins. "So keep your chin up. We're all behind you, every step of the way."

Naruto blinks a moment, then beams right back. "You got it!"

Outside, about half an hour earlier, Gai and his two remaining students are just leaving the hospital grounds when he senses a familiar presence in the tree just outside Naruto's window. Glancing over his shoulder, a small smile comes to his face. Perfect timing! He's been wanting to talk to him for a while!

"Lee, Tenten, you two can get home on your own, can't you?"

His students stop and turn to him curiously. "Is something the matter, sensei?" Lee asks, concerned.

Gai shakes his head, a bright grin on his face. "No, Lee! The exact opposite, in fact!" His students tilt their heads as one, even more confused now. "I just need to take care of something, and I can't wait to get started!"

Lee blinks, and then realization dawns. He strikes his palm with his fist in an Aha! gesture. "Oh!" He brightens. "You mean like a new training regimen, sensei?!"

Gai chuckles. "I suppose you could call it that!"

Lee lights up, eyes shining, fists balled excitedly at half-mast. "Then you should get started right away! Do not let us hold you up!" He turns to Tenten with a polite bow. "Please, Tenten, allow me to ensure you get home safely!"

Tenten flushes at her teammate's gentlemanly offer, a shy smile blooming. "O-okay, sure. Thanks, Lee. You're sweet."

Straightening, Lee beams. "Perfect! Then I hope you will also allow me to make a training exercise out of it!"

She doesn't have time to respond before he scoops her into his arms, her own winding around his neck reflexively. "Ah—w-wait, Lee, this isn't what I—!"

"What are we waiting for? Let us go!"

He takes off at breakneck speed down the street, Tenten yelping and holding on for dear life. Gai chuckles and watches until he can't see them anymore. They really are good kids…

Then, he turns back to the matter at hand. "Come on out, eternal rival! I know you're there!"

Kakashi phases in beside him a moment later, looking a bit sheepish as he rubs the back of his head. "I'd ask how you knew it was me, but I should know I can't hide from you."

Gai just laughs and flashes a thumbs up. "You're absolutely right!" Glancing back at the tree, Gai tilts his head. "But Kakashi…why were you hiding in that tree in the first place?"

Kakashi takes a breath and shrugs, but he doesn't look away like he usually might. "Well, I hadn't seen you since you left on that training mission with your kids, so I thought I'd check in, make sure you all got back okay."

Gai just stares for a moment, blinking owlishly, then curls his fingers at his lips and scrutinizes his lifelong friend and rival. Not that it's unusual for Kakashi to check in on his friends and their kids in his own way, particularly after long or hard missions (he's kind of a Mother Hen that way), but still. This is…different. Gai leans in so close that it more than breaks Kakashi's personal bubble. "Gai, what are you doing?" he finally asks.

Giving him space, Gai eyes Kakashi, expression serious. "Something's different about you." Not wanting him to get the wrong idea, he raises placating hands. "Good different, but…still. You seem…lighter, less burdened. Like a big weight's been lifted off your shoulders."

Kakashi nods. There's no sense in denying it, and he's not surprised that Gai noticed the change in him so quickly. It's just how they work, how they've always worked. Knowing Gai won't rest until he knows more, Kakashi raises a hand to stop him and glances back at Naruto's window. "Not here," he tells him quietly and starts leading the way down the street.

Gai follows without question, falling into step beside him, a comfortable, companionable silence settling between them. Their relationship is known for its loud boasts and ridiculous challenges, but they have their quieter moments, too. This is just one of them. Kakashi stops for flowers on the way, two meticulously chosen bouquets they both know by heart, and when they arrive at their destination, Gai's not the least bit surprised.

The Leaf Village Cemetery.

Gai stays at the entrance and turns his back while Kakashi talks to Rin and Obito first, wanting to give him privacy. They were his friends, too, sure, but Gai knows Kakashi's relationship with his teammates was special, something he'll never be able to get back or replace, so he wants him to have as much time with them as he needs.

He can't make out the words he's saying, but from the tone of his voice, Gai can't help but notice that Kakashi sounds…happier and freer than he has in…so many years. Maybe since…since he lost them, Minato, and Kushina…maybe since he lost his father, even. It sends a shiver down Gai's spine and a pang through his chest, and he clenches his fists and bows his head as tears sting and fall. He's…he's just so…happy…! If anyone deserves some respite…if anyone deserves to be happy and free of guilt and pain and strife after everything he's been through…it's Kakashi…! He's lost count of how many times he's prayed for this over the years…!

Once Kakashi's finally done about half an hour later, he invites Gai over to sit at the Memorial Stone with him. It's quiet for a long few minutes, but Gai doesn't mind. He knows Kakashi. He'll talk when he's ready. Besides, when it comes down to it? He'd wait forever if it meant he'd know the reason for such a profound change in his eternal rival—and, in his heart, his best friend.

"I told Naruto the truth."

Gai raises an eyebrow, intrigued. "Truth? About what?"

Kakashi hums. "Oh…just about the Nine Tails, his parents, and Obito and Rin."

Gai stares a moment before reeling back and shouting, "You what?!"

Kakashi slaps a hand over his mouth and puts a warning finger to his lips. "Keep your voice down!" he hisses.

He removes his hand, and Gai complies. "You wanna run that by me again, Kakashi?"

Kakashi looks back out toward the entrance, Obito's name at his back and Rin's grave at his front. He shrugs. "There's not much to tell, really. I told him everything Lord Third ever kept from him."

Gai blinks and has to work at getting out the next word. "And…?"

Kakashi chuckles as he remembers his student's reaction, a softly-delighted smile on his face. "Well, how would anyone react, hearing something like that? To finally know who his parents were and learn everything he could about them, I mean. He was thrilled! He was really excited to hear about Obito and Rin, too." His smile shrinks a bit as he recalls the next part, voice lowering as well. "He cried a lot, of course, when he heard exactly how and why he became an orphan and the Nine Tails was sealed inside him," he swallows; Naruto's compassion really is astounding, "even more so when he heard how Rin and Obito died..."

After another moment, his smile slips completely, and he sighs, suddenly looking and sounding much older than his mere thirty years. Gai doesn't miss it, just holds his breath in anticipation of why. "The way he reacted to Rin's death, especially…" He mimics the way Naruto curled his fist in his shirt opposite his heart, and Gai's breath hitches. Kakashi nods. "It was…hard…and that's putting it mildly…" He rakes that hand through his hair and huffs a laugh, but it's bitter and maybe the tiniest bit choked. "And you know the worst part…?" His voice is a smidgen shaky. "I was the one who taught Sasuke that move…"

Gai tries to hold himself back from saying anything, he really does, but he can't. This is Kakashi they're talking about! "But Kakashi, you couldn't have known—!"

"I told him it's not a move to use against a comrade," Kakashi's voice is soft, but biting, his eye, too, "and yet, he still…" He clenches a fist till the fabric around it groans. "I had to watch as my former student nearly killed my…" His knuckles crack, gritted teeth creak, and Gai swears his heart almost stops when a tear splatters on his fist. He's…Kakashi hasn't cried since…! "I was right there, Gai, but I—" his voice gives out, and Gai's heart aches, "—I couldn't…! I should've done more…!"

Gai doesn't say anything this time, even though he wants to more than anything. He knows Kakashi has to get this out. He doesn't move either, just stays right where he is. He knows staying close helps Kakashi the most when things get like this. Kakashi buries his face in his hands, and he's the only one not (quite) surprised to find a couple tears sneaking from between his fingers a moment later. "It was…" a small whine escapes, "…it was like Rin all over again…"

Gai hates just watching, not being able to help like he wants, but he knows this is better for Kakashi. At least, it always has been before. But…but come to think of it, Kakashi's different now, and he's never been averse to his touch, so…maybe… Hesitating a good few moments, Gai slowly reaches out to rest a feather-light, tentative hand on Kakashi's shoulder, and to his immense surprise, Kakashi actually relaxes, some of the tension bleeding from his taut frame. A shaky sigh leaves him, too, and Gai will take it as a small victory.

It's what gives him the courage to do this, too. "Kakashi…" he squeezes his shoulder, "…you taught Sasuke your Lightning Blade to protect himself and his comrades. It's an incredible move that only you'd been able to use before that." A small smile comes, a fond chuckle with it. "It feels amazing when a student masters your jutsu, doesn't it? It's like a piece of us will always live on in them."

Kakashi seems apprehensive on principle, but he can't quite stop himself from nodding. "At…at the time…I was so proud of him…"

Gai nods in turn. "As you should have been." A heartbeat, two. "But you didn't know then that things would go this way. None of us did. None of us could have. Your student turned his back on all of us and the Leaf, and he used the jutsu you taught him to do the unthinkable." He grits his teeth, clenches his free fist. "I…I can't imagine how that must feel. It's…if Lee or Neji or Tenten ever…" He swallows, shuddering and feeling sick at the images it brings. Shaking his head to clear it, he focuses back on Kakashi. "You did your best to keep Sasuke on the right path, but it's not your fault he rejected those teachings. It's not your fault you couldn't stop or get between him and Naruto during their fight. Heck, if you'd gotten hurt, too, or worse, who knows how much worse things could have been? One or both of you might have died, and you know Naruto would never forgive himself." Kakashi swallows thickly, but he knows he's right. He nods again, stealing Gai's breath when he leans into his touch, inches a bit closer. Gai's voice lowers and gentles of its own accord. "You're not wrong to wish things were different. You're not wrong to feel guilty, even if I wish you wouldn't. Everything you're feeling, it's all right, Kakashi. I swear it is."

Kakashi sniffs. A few more tears have fallen by now, but he thinks he's just about done. He takes a deep, if shaky, breath, ears perking when Gai keeps going. "I'm sure you told Naruto how proud you are of him for finally leaving Sasuke behind, right? For focusing on the ones who love him more than anything and would fight tooth and nail for him?"

Kakashi finally lets his hands fall and wipes his eye on his gloves. "O-of course. It's how I really feel, after all…" His eye moves toward the darkening sky. The stars will be out soon. "It's for the best. I think we all know that."

Gai nods. "And Naruto knows it now, too. He's still grappling with his decision, and I suspect it may take some time for him to really let Sasuke go, if he ever can completely. But you were there for him when he needed you…" he squeezes Kakashi's shoulder and softens, prouder than ever to be his rival, his friend, "…so there's no need to beat yourself up anymore. You've done well, Kakashi."

That wording reminds him of what Naruto told him during his breakdown, and Kakashi's smile grows. "I hope…I hope you're right…" Reaching up, he rests his fingers on Gai's. "Thank you, Gai…"

Inwardly sighing heavily with relief, Gai beams, so happy to have helped that tears gather at the corners of his eyes. "Any time, Kakashi! You know that!"

Kakashi chuckles, already feeling better. He and Naruto really are good at that. "Right back at you."

Of course, that just makes what Gai said before come back to the forefront, and Kakashi can't help but laugh a touch more. "That kid…" Curious to know what's on his mind now, Gai listens closely. "He's so young and has faced so many hardships of his own…but all Naruto wants is to take away others' pain…" He smiles softly up at the beautiful dusk sky. "It's almost like that's why he was put here on this Earth, to heal all of our broken hearts so we'd love him in return…" He doesn't stop himself from melting like nothing else. "I'm his teacher, but I…I broke down in his arms and…he held me like I was the most precious thing in the world to him… He said, 'You've done enough, you can rest now' and…gave me closure that I…never thought I'd get until the day I died…"

He breathes a laugh, thinking about how proud Minato-sensei and Kushina would be of their boy. "He really is extraordinary…"

Gai smiles, a quiet chuckle of his own leaving him. "Yeah…but I'd say even that's an understatement. He's got us all wrapped around his finger." He nudges Kakashi with his elbow, a teasing glint to his grin. "Something you and your pretty nails would know all about, wouldn't you, Kakashi?"

Kakashi stiffens, reeling back, a bright blush on his face, but he doesn't bother to hide his nails. He's already been found out, and anyway, he has nothing to hide from Gai. "H-how did you know it was him?!"

Gai just barks a laugh and raises an eyebrow with a smirk, jabbing at himself with his thumb. "Who else could make you do something like that besides me for our challenges?" He rests his chin between his knuckles, all too eager to know the details. "So…? How'd he convince you?"

Kakashi looks away, blushing to his ears. "He…he smiled at me…"

Gai's eyes widen. He blinks. Given a moment, he immediately starts cackling, unable to help himself at the very idea of the great Kakashi Hatake being swayed by a child's smile, of all things!

Kakashi pouts for a few seconds, but Gai's laughter turns infectious, just like always, and he finds himself chuckling, too. "S-Sai came and painted everyone's nails…and Naruto was so happy with his…!" He laughs harder upon remembering just how happy he was, eyes shining and all, which just sends Gai into an even bigger laughing fit. "H-how could I—say no—to that face?!" Gai's laughing so hard that he's holding his stomach, tears falling, and Kakashi isn't far behind, already having to brace himself on the monument's base. "Y-you—would have been—p-powerless, too…!" He pauses for a few moments to try to get his words and breath back, but it proves impossible. For the first time in a while, he doesn't mind. "I-I know you…G-Gai…!"

In the end, Kakashi has to stop talking altogether because the laughter takes over, so much that a few tears actually sneak out. Gai's fallen back on the monument's base, their laughter echoing through the cemetery. It's been a long time since they've laughed like this, really gotten to let go. It feels…amazing, like just what they needed.

When they finally calm down enough to compose themselves several minutes later, Gai sets a solid hand on Kakashi's shoulder again and smiles so much, his cheeks actually hurt. A few more tears, unrelated to the laughing, cling to his eyelashes. "It's good to have you back, Kakashi!"

The Kakashi I grew up with!

My best friend.

Kakashi doesn't miss the silent sentiment underneath it all, and he can't help but beam, something else that nearly stops Gai's heart, the happy tears at the corners of his eye besides. "It's good to be back!" Setting his hand on top of Gai's, he looks at him seriously. This is something he's done his best to tell him in his own way over the years, but now he thinks he can finally say it out loud. "Listen, Gai…I truly find it reassuring having you there…and I hope you always will be." He squeezes gently. "We'll always be rivals, you'll always be my best friend, and that will never change."

Gai, tears fit to burst already, throws his arms around his friend's neck to hug him tightly, crying happy tears into his shoulder. "Kakashi…!"

Kakashi just laughs, reaching up to hold his wrist and wrap an arm around him in turn, which just makes the other man even more emotional. Gaze finding the sky just as the stars are starting to come out, Kakashi can't help but think of Naruto again. He's the only reason this breakthrough of his was possible…

He smiles.

Thank you, Naruto…

A/N: The chapter title refers to Neji's comment about Naruto's eyes from the Sasuke Retrieval arc, "Sometimes your eyes are even better than mine" (Naruto, Episode 115, "Your Opponent is Me!") and how Naruto so easily sees into others' hearts!

I dropped a few more background Kankuro/Tenten hints because I can (also some Lee/Tenten because even though KankuTen is confirmed for this fic, I'm multiship trash), lol, so if you enjoyed those, great! If not, feel free to ignore! ;)

Neji's reference to Sasuke being lost in darkness also comes from his line in the same ep: "Wherever he is, Sasuke is in the darkness." (Naruto's reflection on it and agreement comes in Naruto, Episode 131, "Enlightenment! The Secret of the Mangekyo Sharingan!": "Neji...it's just like you said! Sasuke is in this depths of darkness right now!")

Kakashi's line to Gai toward the end comes from Shippuden episode 219, "The Hokage Kakashi Hatake": "We'll always be rivals, and that will never change. Listen, Gai, I truly find it reassuring having you there, and I hope you always will be." (Obviously, I added the best friend part. And to be clear on that, I meant that Gai will always be Kakashi's living best friend. Lol. Obito was his best friend growing up, even if Kakashi didn't admit it to himself until it was too late.)

Gai's comforting 'It's okay to wish things were different, it's okay if you feel guilty, I swear it is' lines are inspired by Tohru Honda's to Kyo Sohma in the Fruits Basket reboot's s1e10, "It's Valentine's, After All!": "It's okay if you don't like him. Really... ...It's fine if you can't. It's fine if you hate him. It really is."

The quote Neji says at the end of his Naruto moment is something a friend (GreenHunter05 on our KidgeonPost Discord) showed me and I thought fit nicely with the things Naruto told Neji during their Chunin Exam final fight: "Destiny is not a matter of chance; it is a matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved." – William Jennings Bryan

Thanks so much for reading!