Naruto Fan Fiction ❯ Forgiveness is for Naught ❯ ...You Get a Body Guard ( Chapter 4 )

K=Kottashi G=Gaara

N=Naruto H=Hinata

M=Meru SU=Sasuke

S=Sakura RL=Rock Lee

NJ=Neji TT=TenTen

T=Tsunade KK=Kakashi

TM=Temari SN=Shikamaru

I=Ino C=Chouji

KI=Kiba SI=Shino

 

D.K.Chan here, and what a chap—

 

KI: -pushes D.K.Chan out of the way- Kiba and Akamaru here!

 

Akamaru: Arf!

 

KI: This chapter is gonna be all about me and my best bud here!

 

DK: -hog ties Kiba, and sets Akamaru on the ground- NO IT'S NOT!

 

H: You'll just have to read to find out.

 

KI: Hinata help me out here!

 

DK: Sorry dog boy, but I have her under special orders.

 

H: -giggles-

 

KI: Just get on with the chapter already!

 

 

Forgiveness is for Naught

 

Chapter Four: …You Get a Body Guard

 

Diabolical Kitsutora

 

 

About ten minutes of silence, another knock was heard at the door, and again, the door knob turned, and opened the door. This time it was Izumo and Ibiki. “Konnichiwa IzumoSan, IbikiSan.” Politely Hinata said.

 

“Yeah, hey.” Disrespectful as always.

 

“HinataSan, HokageSama has instructed us to have you come with us while we investigate.” Started Izumo.

 

“Investigate what?” Entered Naruto.

 

“That is classified infor-”

 

“Iie Izumo, perhaps this brat can help. We're investigating the Uchiha estate. We're looking for any information about a second Sharingan technique.” Interrupted Ibiki.

 

With a smile, Naruto jumped up and yelled, “Count me in! Maybe this'll help me find some clues as to why that teme left.” And so he ran out the door to wait for the rest at the front of the hospital.

 

With a bow, Hinata stood and followed Naruto. “IbikiSan, why did you tell him? It was only supposed to be one of the Hyuuga's.”

“Think of it this way,” He answered, “HokageSama has been going insane with this kid asking her about missions to go find Sasuke, or to find information of his whereabouts. If we take him, he won't have to bug HokageSama about trying to find out more about this kid.”

 

“I see, I guess she has been stressed out more lately because he won't shut up about it.” Agreed Izumo. That decided, they followed the two genin.

 

Once they left hospital grounds, it was a very silent walk to the Uchiha estate. Even the loud mouthed blond didn't talk on the way there. As they stepped into the estate however, Ibiki stopped them. “HinataSan, NarutoSan take these.” He handed them a small communication band, much like the ones Naruto and team 7 had used when on missions that required them to split up.

 

“Aren't we sticking together though?” Questioned Naruto.

 

“No, Izumo and I are going to search the east half of the estate. You two search the west, if you find anything, or sense any danger, well I'm sure you know how to use communicators.” Ibiki stated.

 

“Hai.” So with that, the two groups went their separate ways, Ibiki and Izumo going east, Naruto and Hinata going west. After a few hours of searching, even with the Byakugan activated, Hinata could see little.

 

“Err, there's nothing here but dusty buildings.” Whined Naruto.

 

As Hinata continued to look around, her eyes landed on a particular building that looked as if it was a gathering house or something. “NarutoKun,” Pointing to the building, “Let's look in there, there seems to be a room underground. It looks promising.” She suggested.

 

Without further, well anything, Naruto grabbed a startled Hinata's hand and ran into the building that Hinata had indicated. Once in there though, Naruto had his doubts that the building would be useful, “HinataChan, what's so important looking about this building again?”

 

“There's a secret door here somewhere, finding it is the problem.” Replied the raven haired girl.

 

“Why don't we just blow up the floor?” Suggested the blond, ready to make Kage Bunshin's to help him mold the chakra for his Rasengan.

 

“NarutoKun, we have to keep from destroying anything.” Giggled the shy girl.

 

“Oi HinataChan, what's the deal with you today? You're talking a lot more, and you're not stuttering.” Why oh why Naruto?

 

Hinata's heart sank, “I-I don't know, I guess it just stopped for a while I guess.” Even though she didn't look down, as she felt hurt, her heart broke in two, did Naruto not like her more confident self?

 

Naruto seemed to study her for a while, “You know HinataChan, you're funner to talk to when you don't stutter, I mean you actually converse now. You're a weird person HinataChan.” Complimented Naruto with his big grin.

 

At those words, Hinata felt better, “Arigatou NarutoKun.” She smiled brightly at the blond, and then opened her eyes in surprise, “Uh! I know how to get down there now!” Quickly, Hinata went over to the mat, seven mats from the door, and a second mat from the right wall.

 

Lifting up the mat, Naruto again studied Hinata, -She's changed so much since we were younger. Why didn't I notice this before? - “Hehehe, I bet you there's something really secretive down there!” Yelled the blond, jumping in ahead of Hinata.

 

Kneeling on a mat around the entrance, Hinata smiled at Naruto's eagerness. Opening her eyes upon noticing the absent of noise, she looked down to her surprise, to see Naruto hold up his hands to catch as she jumped down. It was a nice thought, but quite unnecessary, considering they were ninja's, and the drop was only about 7-8 feet. Regardless, Naruto kept coaxing her to just jump down, and eventually, she agreed and jumped.

 

Hinata's long raven hair flowed behind her as she fell, and Naruto couldn't help but notice how beautiful she looked. Shaking his head, he told himself they had a mission, he had plenty of time later to think. “So, what do you think is down here HinataChan? It's kind of… Small.”

 

For a minute Hinata didn't answer, until he heard a small gasp, “NarutoKun, over here, this is what we're looking for!” Naruto walked over, and kneeled next to Hinata, who was reading something on what looked like a cement alter of some sort. “Here, this engraving right here: Mangekyou Sharingan is not for the weak to have, only those with a cold heart will even be able to kill their closest friend to obtain it, much less use its awesome powers… That's what Itachi must have.”

 

“Oi! Izumo! Ibiki! We found something here!” Hollered Naruto into the communicator, “It's some kind of secret room in a building, this thing talks about some other Sharingan.” Naruto said after Ibiki yelled at him to tell him what they had found. “Yeah, they'll be here in a minute.” Naruto said, digging into his almost deaf ear.

 

Standing up, Hinata looked at the entrance from which they came from, “I'll wait outside for them.” She stated, as she easily jumped up and walked out of sight.

 

-Why am I so different around her? -baby blue eyes landed on the cement alter, where the secret to the Mangekyou Sharingan lie, -you were always bluntly honest with me SasukeTeme. Why don't you tell me why I feel this way? -

 

 

-----Outside with Hinata-----

 

 

Hinata couldn't have stood in here spot for more then five minutes when she saw Ibiki and Izumo. As soon as she knew that they had seen her, she disappeared back into the house, and jumped down back into the meeting room once they were right behind her.

 

“Oi, this what we're looking for?” Remarked Naruto rudely.

 

Ibiki and Izumo just ignored the blond, and began to examine the alter. After reading the indicated line Hinata had shown them, they decided they had found all they needed to find. “Ok, let's report back to HokageSama.”

 

From the shadows, a slim, yet very built character stared down on the four examining the alter. They had found out the secret to the Mangekyou, so what? That meant nothing, actually, it played that brat into their favor. Not only would they be searching in the wrong directions, but they'd leave everything else wide open. Who knew that the correct information, could lead you to a dead end. This was going to be the easiest mission ever done in the history of the Village Hidden in the Swamp.

 

“KamiSama, who in the hell farted?” Complained the blond.

 

“Are you sure it wasn't you?” Izumo spoke, looking through the corner of his eyes at Naruto.

 

Ibiki just looked at the two as they began bickering, some adults they were. Everyone had their hand over their nose except Hinata, activating her Byakugan, she saw no one else, but there had to have been someone there recently. In certain places, the stench she knew everyone could smell was stronger. On the ceiling above the alter, the smell was the strongest. Hinata shivered, someone was watching them, this wasn't good. Letting anxiety get the best of her, Hinata began to fall back, holding her shivering arms.

 

Naruto immediately noticed that there was one person too little in front of him. As he looked back, only to find Hinata holding her arms, shivering like an abandoned pup in the rain, he began to slowly fall back as well. So shaken, Hinata didn't even notice Naruto's arms enclose around her. -Ok, what the hell am I doing? My body's just moving on its own! - Of course this wasn't the case.

 

“Oi, HinataChan, daijoubu ka?” Questioned a concerned blond.

 

Troubled, scared, and fearful cloud blue eyes looked up into Naruto's worried baby blue eyes. “H-hai, daijoubu NarutoKun. Arigatou.” Taking a few staggered breathes, she tried to calm herself and release herself from Naruto's grip. Not to say it didn't work… Ok, so it didn't work, not in the least.

 

“Gomen HinataChan, but I don't believe that.” He looked into her eyes, she looked back, all the while, still keeping up behind Izumo and Ibiki, “You're afraid, but of what?” For some reason, he grinned, “I know you HinataChan, you're not a weak person who's afraid of everything. You must be shivering for some reason, it's not that cold out.”

 

At Naruto's compliment, Hinata blushed, yeah she wasn't weak, anymore that is, and she was never afraid to do what she had to do. “Something in that smell… Someone was watching us, I just know it. But I can't say for sure, I don't want to alarm anyone. Demo…” Letting her eyes drop to the ground, “There was something there, I don't know what, but it wanted to do us harm… I think more in particular… one of us…”

 

Naruto gave her a confused looked, “Wanted to do us harm? To whom do you think?” Slightly, Naruto began to wonder why Ibiki and Izumo hadn't asked them why they were so close, or why they were talking so lightly, but noticed they were in their own deep conversation.

 

“Whatever it is, it has a strong killing intent, but I don't know for whom, or for what purpose.” Inhaling, and exhaling another quivering breath, Hinata gently squirmed her way out of Naruto's grip, who just seemed to stand there, his mouth gaping. Looking up into his eyes, she frowned, but her eyes were reassuring, “You know us NarutoKun, we can take care of ourselves. We can warn everyone that there's someone who has intent to do us harm. It'll be ok.” Now she smiled.

 

A small, but very thankful smile graced Naruto's lips, and as he bent down to hug her once again, he whispered into her ear, “Arigatou HinataChan, thank you so much. You're the only one that seems to know when I need to be reassured about stuff. I've never seen that in anyone else. You're so kind.”

 

At that moment, Hinata wanted to kiss him, she was so happy, but decided, she knew he liked Sakura, it was better not to confuse him with her own feelings. Instead, “Everyone needs reassuring sometimes, even those who say they don't. You know I'm always there for you NarutoKun.”

 

Before they knew it, all four were in front of the Hokage's office door. It was probably around 7:30 pm, Tsunade would probably be in. Izumo knocked on the door, and almost at once they heard a groan and then a strained, “Come in.” All four entered and Tsunade immediately shot up from her hunched position over her desk.

 

“So what did you find out?” She questioned immediately.

 

“HokageSama! We have found that the Mangekyou Sharingan can be obtained by any Uchiha willing enough to kill his or her closest friend!” Stated Izumo formally.

 

“Arigatou Izumo, this at least proves one thing, and throws one theory out the window.” Sighing, she rubbed her temples, a green chakra emitting from her fingers.

 

“Oi, TsunadeBaaChan, what do you mean?” Naruto, when will you learn to be more polite?

 

At the nickname Naruto had bestowed upon her, Tsunade threw her shoe at him, “It means, BRAT! That Sasuke is not going out of his way to obtain the Mangekyou Sharingan.” Without even letting the loud blond ask, she continued, “Since you're so STUPID, I'll tell you why that is. You are Sasuke's best friend, whether you know it or not. He had his chance to kill you, but he didn't. That means he's not going after the Mangekyou Sharingan. You follow?” A nod and she continued.

 

“That also rules out the theory that it was Sasuke who cast that genjutsu on Kottashi. Which now means, it must have been -- “

 

“Itachi.” Naruto finished for her. Tsunade nodded.

 

“I don't know why, but I'm guessing Itachi must either want her out of the way, or wants to use her. Either way, we have to make sure there's someone with her at all times. Guessing this might be the case, I have made Gaara her personal guard until we can end all this shit with Orochimaru and Akatsuki.” A huge sigh.

 

“Demo HokageSama, why don't you just let Shikamaru guard her. He knows her more than anyone else right?” Hinata had finally spoken up.

 

“That may be true, but Shikamaru doesn't have a shield that can protect her automatically. Gaara does, if anything should come her way, Gaara can cover her. That boy has changed so I've heard, since when you fought him Naruto, his older sister Temari tells me he is more apt to help people.” Before Tsunade could go on, Naruto cut in.

 

“Don't worry, I trust Gaara!” Stated the hyperactive blond.

 

The others looked at Naruto, but Hinata was the first to smile and nod, “Hai, I agree, GaaraKun would be the best person to protect ShiChan.” Izumo and Ibiki just kind of stood there and nodded.

 

“Ok, well with that out of the way, you are dismissed, I'll call on the four of you if I need you again.” The two genin split up from the jounin, both taking their own way out. Jounin disappeared, genin just walked out casually.

 

Once outside of the huge building with the symbol for fire on it, both teens stopped to look up at the moon and stars. “My friends can take care of themselves, they don't need me to protect them. They aren't weak at all.” Just the thought that Itachi might be after ShiChan or anyone else worried him. So he chanted to reassure himself that everything would be ok.

 

Out of nowhere, Hinata grabbed Naruto's hand, startled, he looked at her, only to be met with such beautiful eyes. Not the normal blood trait eyes all Hyuuga had, but eyes that showed him kindness, acceptance, and was there also love? “Hai NarutoKun, we can all take care of ourselves, there`s no need to worry about that.” The inevitable began to happen, the teens began to move closer together. The hand Hinata had grasped, now grasped both of her's, two pairs of eyes slowly closed, as two pairs of lips met, just for the briefest of moments, then separated again, like nothing had ever occurred.

 

Faint blushes crossed both their cheeks, and they totally missed the sound of a certain sea foam green haired girl in the shadows, jumping up and down screaming, “Yes, yes, yes! Finally you ass crack!” Meanwhile, Temari was trying to get her to shut up, Naruto and Hinata didn't notice a thing. At that moment, all they could do was stare into each other's eyes. Right then, it was all that they needed, something that filled a hole that was in both their hearts.

 

Smiling, Hinata looked down, bit her lip, and poked her fingers together. Also smiling, Naruto offered to walk her home. Agreeing, Naruto warmly embraced her, thanking her for all that she's done for him. As they walked, they passed by Ichiraku's Ramen Shop. At that moment, Hinata heard a low grumbling sound. Looking over at the blond next to her, she blinked, then smiled.

 

“Ehehe, guess I'm hungry. Wanna get some ramen before going home?” Scratching the back of his head, Naruto sweat dropped at his stomachs intrudence.

 

Smiling, the raven haired girl gave a nod, “Hai, that'd be nice.”

 

As the two young teens sat down at Ichiraku ramen, Teuchi gave Naruto his normal, and took Hinata's order. “Ahh, arigatou JiiChan! Itadakimasu!” Yelled the hyperactive blond happily, immediately shoveling his ramen down his throat.

 

Smiling, Hinata repeated and shyly, and very quietly yelled, `Itadakimasu!' After both were done, “Goichimasu!” they yelled at the same time. At first, Hinata wanted to laugh at that, but decided to keep quiet. She was still so confused about that kiss she and Naruto had shared. Did it mean anything to him, like it did to her? He hadn't asked about it yet. Than again, they were in a pretty public place, perhaps he didn't want to talk about it here. Maybe once they were on a more deserted street.

 

While Hinata was lost in her thoughts, Naruto searched relentlessly for his frog purse so he could pay for the ramen, but found he couldn't find it! A sudden realization made him see he left it on his dresser. “Kuso-o-o-o-o-o! I left my money at home!” Naruto went into the dark zone.

 

Until Hinata snapped out of her thoughts, “its ok NarutoKun, I'll pay for it.” The shy Hyuuga smiled and paid Teuchi, then left with Naruto walking slightly behind her, apologizing constantly saying he'd pay her back most definitely.

 

“I'm so sorry HinataChan, you shouldn't have had to pay for my bottomless pit of a stomach.” Naruto felt so low, even he had the decency to pay for a ladies meal if she was with him.

 

“NarutoKun, really, it's ok. It's no trouble at all.” She assured him. She looked to the sky after making sure he knew it was ok. Again she thought, `what was that kiss to him?'

 

 

----With Kottashi----

 

“This is just gay!” Complained a certain lavender eyed girl.

 

A young man with pastel green eyes, and dirty red hair looked at the girl next to him. This really was annoying, but her complaining wasn't helping at all. “…” Being that he was never talkative, he didn't say a thing.

 

“Why the hell do I need someone to escort me around? I know this place like the back of my hand, and I'm more then capable of protecting myself… Doushite TsunadeSama!?!!?” Anime tears from the girls eyes as she swayed around like a mad person.

 

“Will you shut up?” His voice was low, a bit… rough sounding, seeing as he didn't talk much.

 

“Gomenasai GaaraKun, but I have a feeling you don't want to be my bodyguard as much as I don't want one. It's pointless if you ask me.” Kottashi stomped around angrily, can you say `bipolar much?'

 

“Whatever just keep quiet.” It goes without saying, Kottashi was a bit taken aback by the remark, Gaara walked a little further ahead, trying to keep some distance.

 

“Gomen GaaraKun… I guess you're mad at me for that little incident earlier in the hospital room. Really, I can understand if you hate me for the rest of my life. Demo -- “Out of nowhere, Kottashi was interrupted.

 

“Stop apologizing, it's pointless. It's better to just follow orders and not ask questions.” Gaara continued walking ahead, even though it was not quiet like he wanted, he now felt uneasy.

 

A few feet behind him, Kottashi lowered her head, her bangs covering her eyes. She just had to open her big mouth, and she had to go and say something to offend him. Then again, which part of what she said offended him? Confusion took over her guilty mind set, but then soon went back to guilty. How could she be confused? It was obvious he hated her for giving him that look that he didn't deserve what-so-ever. Silently the girl sighed, she just had no rights in this situation. For one, she didn't have the right to be confused, this whole thing was probably her fault.

 

Considering it now, Kottashi thought that maybe Tsunade was thinking of her as a threat to Gaara. Like she'd go and try and kill him or something. Not to mention it would be too much to ask Gaara's forgiveness, hearing as how his past was, he probably wouldn`t forgive her even if she promised to never go near him again when he didn't have to be her body guard. Then Temari's voice began repeating what she had said earlier.

 

`You know, actually… what you did back there for Gaara, it meant something for him…' These words rang in Kottashi's head. If she hadn't promised to keep quiet, she'd have hit herself upside the head. To just get these words to make sense, she'd do just about anything! She heard what Temari had said, and about Gaara's past, but why would he care if someone like her apologized? He just met her, she insulted him, so to speak, then Temari says that confusing stuff. To conclude everything, even the stuff that made no sense to her, the only thing she could feel around this guy would be guilt.

 

-Kottashi's POV-

 

He's just silently walking in front of me. I can't help but feel I've insulted him deeply, hurt him deeply. TemariChan may have said I've done something that actually meant a lot to him… But I can't see it that way. Even though I can only see his back, I can tell he's angry. Probably at me too, that I wouldn't doubt. This situation… I don't understand it, and I'm afraid that it's going to cause more trouble and more pain for Gaara, not only him but everyone around him. So many things have happened while I was gone. Perhaps, to make things easier on everyone else… Maybe I should just leave Konoha forever. No one will miss me right?

 

No… That's not true, my friends will miss me. Hinata, Naruto, my brother Shikamaru, the family that adopted me. I've already caused everyone so much pain, leaving would just cause more pain, and even more confusion. KamiSama, I just don't know what to do to help everyone out. TsunadeSama… Maybe I should just stick around her, do everything she tells me too, agree to any and all tests or questions or searches. If I just cooperate without any fight…

 

“Whatever you're thinking about, stop thinking about it now.” I gasped suddenly, could he read minds?

 

As I looked up, I saw Gaara had turned around, and was glancing at me. “Your chakra… it's filled with guilt and regret.” My eyes had widened at this, and if I could have, I would've gasped, but something kept my throat from making any sounds. All I could manage to say was, `uh…'

 

“Your chakra is getting on my nerves, stop thinking.” His intense gaze pierced through my face, it was like he had the Byakugan's ability, and could see right through me.

 

All I could do was stare at him, I can't say I was intimidated by his stare, but I can't say I wasn't afraid at all. That look in his eyes, it was one of pain, but there was also annoyance, and maybe just a bit of panic. I didn't understand why I could see those emotions, just by looking into his eyes, but that fact scared me. Why, I really don't know, I guess, maybe just knowing a person this well without even truly knowing them just seemed too much like a dream. Perhaps my most current thoughts were that this was another genjutsu.

 

But it wasn't, it wasn't another genjutsu. My trembling hand went to cover my mouth, why, I don't know. It was then though, that I knew this wasn't a genjutsu. Gaara roughly grabbed my wrist, “Stop looking at me like that! Just stop thinking so you can go home.” His eyes narrowed, and he bared his teeth like a dog trying to act brave, but suddenly, it looked like he realized something. Shaking his head, he let go of my wrist, and put that same hand to a kanji symbol on his forehead, one that read `love.' “Calm down, your chakra is getting out of control.”

 

To say the least, I was confused. Frowning, I chanted in my mind to calm myself. Truth be told, I've been uneasy, and confused since TsunadeSama assigned Gaara the position of being my body guard while she got to know me and my skills as a kunoichi. Strangely at that moment, my heart began to beat faster, and I could feel the heat rise to my face. A smile surfaced on my face, and I don't know if he was insulted, confused, angry or what, but even what I myself said, confused the hell out of me. “Arigatou GaaraKun.”

 

Most likely, he was just as confused as I was, but it didn't last very long. Feet stamping on the ground rapidly, which sounded like a whole herd of bulls coming towards us, suddenly crashed right into me.

 

-Regular POV-

 

Sound of stampede…

 

At that moment, all he could do was look at the young woman before him like she was nuts.

 

Stampede sound is coming closer, and louder.

 

He couldn't take his eyes off of her… Why was that? One thing was for certain, neither of them knew the answer.

 

The sound of the stampede was just behind Kottashi.

 

What was it about this moment that was making their hearts beat wildly?

 

BOOM!

 

With much warning yet no preparation, something crashed forcefully, and with an enormous impact right into Kottashi. With such power, she was thrust forward, and impacted with a crushing force, into Gaara's chest, which somehow, he didn't move an inch. Swirly eyes took over Kottashi's normal lavender ones as she slid slowly down Gaara's body. Dust arose in the area where Kottashi used to be standing. Being the cool, and collected person he was, Gaara looked to the cloud, his face unreadable as usual.

 

“NeeSan!!!” Gaara raised a none existent eye brow, Shikamaru didn't have any other sister's besides Kottashi, and she wasn't even a biological sister.

 

Kottashi slid to the ground, swirly eyed and dizzy, “Eh heh heh heh was happenin…” Out of nowhere, whoever was the owner of the high pitched voice, tackled poor Kottashi even further into the ground.

 

“NeeSan! It's been too long!!!” Finally the dust cleared away from whatever it was that tackled the green haired girl, and Gaara could see a young girl with monkey ears.

 

“A human… With monkey ears?” That wasn't possible right?

 

“M-MeruOneeChan?” Asked the barely conscious girl on the ground. “Why are you a monkey?”

 

“Hehehe, it's just a headband baka! Why the hell did you take so long to inform me that you were back??!” Yelled the angered girl.

 

“Technically I never told you I was back. You found out on your own somehow.” Answered the now recovering girl.

 

“Oh so what, that's in the past now!”

 

“Is it?”

 

“I missed you so-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o much NeeSan!!! Why didn't you ever write? How come you didn't keep in touch with me! You said you would! Baka, baka, baka, baka, baka, baka…!” Meru, a blue haired, red eyed kunoichi, wearing an outfit similar to Sakura's, was now shaking the poor girl by the collar of her mesh top shirt.

 

“Gomen ne MeruOneeChan… Sensei wouldn't allow me to do such a thing…” Kottashi now had huge swirling eyes.

 

Meru stood up and brought Kottashi to her feet as well, “Really? …. Why?” She asked, letting go of her collar, blinking continually.

 

“She wanted me to concentrate on my training I guess, I really don't know myself.” Now feeling very dizzy and light headed, Kottashi began to sway, falling backwards. Luckily, Gaara caught her, though he displayed no emotion to it, Kottashi blushed, but kept her eyes on her OneeChan.

 

“Hm, why are you with GaaraKun? You've probably only been here for a day or so right? Are you two already going out? KamiSama NeeSan, I didn't know you were such a pimp!” Laughing one minute and teary eyed the next, Kottashi hit Meru upside the head. “Owwie NeeSan! What was that for? That hurt!!!”

 

“I AM NOT A PIMP! AND GAARAKUN IS NOT MY BOYFRIEND!” Kottashi went teary eyed as well, “I just got here and it's like no one but my fellow ninjas know who I am.” Then she stopped for a moment to think, “Actually, I guess I got here at least a week ago but I just woke up today…”

 

“Gomen ne NeeSan! I'm sorry, I should have known better!” Meru sobbed with a little too much emotion and enthusiasm. Did she even listen to what her `sister' had said?

 

Kottashi grabbed Meru's hands and cried with her, “Its ok OneeChan, you were just being you! I have missed you so much! All during my training I had wondered how you were my dearest OneeChan!”

 

Had Gaara been one to show at least a little emotion, he would have backed up the moment the two girls started talking. The reason being is, they were both acting like GaiSensei and Rock Lee. Any normal person would be horridly afraid of that.

 

“So how is your NiiSan, LeeKun?” Curiously asked the green haired girl, her lavender eyes shining.

 

“Brother? That idiot has a sister?” OMG! Gaara… Spoke!

 

“He's not an idiot!! LeeNiiSan is the best! Yeah! Rock Lee Fan Girl, Cha!!!!” Meru gave the nice-guy pose, her shining smile shone with a ping.

 

“Omg, I heart LeeKun! He's so great!” Laughed Kottashi. “Seriously, how is everything here? Naruto hasn't gotten into too much trouble has he? Please, dear KamiSama, tell me! Is Ichiraku still open?!” There were tears in the girl's eyes.

 

Meru just stood there and blinked a few times, “You actually thought they'd shut down Ichiraku ramen? Are you freaking high?! They'd never do that! Of course they're still open! As for Naruto, well, Naruto's still alive at least, I`m sure you know that.” Both girls erupted with laughter.

 

“That's all and well.” She said with a bright smile, “But I must be sick if I thought Ichiraku would ever close!”

 

Out of no where, Meru pulled out a medical kit, and in taking out a stethoscope, (Thing to listen to your heart) she began her unprofessional check-up. “Hm, I have discovered that you my NeeSan… MUST BE ON CRACK!!!” Declared the monkey loving ninja.

 

Kottashi shot back in surprise and fake sadness, “Omg! I knew it! It's just as I had suspected! I am a crack user of the utmost level! There is nothing left for me to do but walk in the circle of flying tacks, while singing Mary had a little lamb off the coast of the Caribbean while juggling houses in the pudding of 56 seconds ago!”

 

“Yes my NeeSan! You must begin your journey! You must pudding in the 56 seconds!” Agreed Meru.

 

“Let me join my OneeChan!” Look who's to join in on the fray! Rock Lee!

 

“NiiSan!!!” Meru tackled her brother, “Of course you can join in the pudding in the 56 seconds!” At this moment, as the three were busy yelling none sense, Gaara sweat dropped. Were these people really sane? And he thought he himself had problems!

 

While Gaara was secretly horrified, scared, and whatever else you'd want to call him, the three siblings are they? Anyways, they were laughing hysterically, rolling-on-the-ground-holding-their-sides-laughing-their-asses-off. “So how have you been LeeKun? I imagine you've been taking good care of your OneeChan?” Smiled the lavender eyed girl.

 

“Hai! You know it ShiSan! I would never allow harm to come to my OneeChan!” Lee gave his version of the nice-guy-pose, his shiny teeth giving off the ping.

 

“Oh yeah right, and that's why I found myself cornered by rouge ninja? I almost got my ass kicked, but luckily, I had sugar with me.” Meru spouted off.

 

“Sugar?” Lee questioned.

 

“Duh LeeKun! Don't you know nothing! MeruOneeChan gets so friggin hyper when she eats sugar, that she's virtually unstoppable, unless you know her weak point.” Explained Kottashi as she poked Meru's side.

 

“Aye! ShiNeeSan I'm gonna kill you!” So began a chase.

 

Lee stood next to Gaara, smiling at his little sister and Kottashi, “You three can't be sane.” Gaara mumbled under his breath.

 

“I assure you GaaraKun, we are all very much sane. But they didn't have much of a childhood, so they're making the most out of what time they can act like kids even if it's in the cover of the night.” Gaara just looked at Lee through the corner of his eye, he could understand the not having a childhood thing. What he didn't understand, was why they didn't have a childhood.

 

“Whatever, I don't want to waste my time here. It`s bad enough I have to baby sit a stupid girl. “Gaara's arms were crossed against his chest, this wasn't his ideal evening. Then again, he didn't have one.

 

”Don't say that GaaraKun, ShiSan is a highly intelligent person, she needs no babysitter.” Stated Rock Lee matter-of-factly.

 

Gaara just gave him an off look, “you think I want to do this? The Hokage asked me to do this because she doesn't trust her own ninja.” with that, he was silent again.

 

“Why would HokageSama do something like that?” Lee blinked a few times.

 

“Why ask me? I'm an outsider.” with that Gaara walked away to go grab his insane charge by the arm and force her home.

 

“GaaraKun…” Lee was at a loss for words, how come Tsunade couldn't trust Kottashi, she may act hyper and insane, but he out of many knew she was very reliable, smart too.

 

“Hey! No need to be pushy GaaraKun! Geez!” complained Kottashi.

 

“Aww do you have to go already NeeSan?” whimpered Meru.

 

“Seems that way, oh yeah, OneeChan, why doesn't GaaraKun have eye brows?” questioned the curious girl.

 

“because LeeNiiSan stole GaaraKun's eye brows and stuck them to his own, see that's why his are so bushy!” at this both girls fell over and died laughing, Gaara dragging along the path, one very hyper, active, insane, laughing girl.

 

After Gaara and Kottashi were out of sight, Meru stood up next to her brother, “NiiSan, do you think they'll become really close?”

 

“I'd like to think so, they seem to get along so well.” answered Lee optimistically.

 

“Yatta! NeeSan has a boyfriend!” shouted Meru, giving off her nice-guy pose.

 

“Now, now OneeChan, I never said that…” with that, the two walked home.

 

 

-----Shikamaru-----

 

 

Who knew Sandaime had so much information on Kottashi. Based on this and what I know, this should satisfy Tsunade. - Shikamaru looked thoughtfully through all the old files that the 3rd Hokage had stored. He could give Tsunade all this information now, along with his written report next week. -How troublesome, I still have to evaluate her skills myself. - Sighing, he walked out of the room, locked it and replaced the seal that guarded the room.

 

Yawning, he walked down a hall, down some stairs, and out the front door of the Hokage's building. The streets at this time of night were always deserted, yet somehow, it seemed there was more life in them this time. Immediately Shikamaru spotted Temari walking around aimlessly. Curiously, he walked towards her, “oi Temari!”

 

“What are you doing about so late Shikamaru?” Temari questioned with a smile, walking towards him, her arms resting behind her head.

 

“Just came from the Hokage's building. Tsunade has me on this ridiculous mission to find out more about my sister. How troublesome.”

 

“Is that your favorite word or something? You say that all the time.”

 

Shikamaru ignored the question, “what are YOU doing out so late?”

 

“Well my brother Gaara has been appointed as your sister's guardian and Konkuro decided he was going to train. I was bored so I just started walking.” she eyed him curiously, “is there a problem with that… Shikamaru?”

 

“Keh, there's no problem, just wondering, at night these streets are normally lifeless.” Shikamaru began walking towards his home again. However he stopped, “Tsunade said that there was something the Kazekage of the Suna village had for her, Gaara's the Kazekage there now, right?”

 

“That's right.”

 

“So why doesn't he have whatever is to be given to Tsunade?”

 

“It's better protected in our village than with the three of us traveling. We know we can depend on your ninjas to get it here safely. Don't ask me what it is though, only Gaara knows, and he hasn't said a word to any of us.” Temari smiled, crossing her arms.

 

The spikey haired youth looked at her, “I see well, I'm going home.” again he began walking.

 

“Later Spikey Hair.” Laughing, Temari began walking the opposite way, and soon Shikamaru was alone again.

 

“Women, how troublesome.”

 

 

----With Kottashi----

 

 

“Chores, how troublesome. I come home after a long seven years of training, to wake up a week later after I supposedly return, to only have to do chores as soon as I get home.” complained a certain green haired kunoichi.

 

“Hahaha, don't complain Otome, Shikamaru has the same chores to do as you. I'm sure you remember how our family works.” Her father laughed heartily.

 

“Yeah, yeah, I know. Each person has to do their part blah, blah, blah, I remember.” she sighed with irritation.

 

“You may make yourself at home Gaara.” Shikaku smiled at Gaara then got up, walked to his daughter, kissed her forehead and walked into another room.

 

“Ahh, how I missed being here.” Kottashi smiled sweetly to herself.

 

Gaara kept silent and didn't say anything, why would he anyways. It was obvious she was talking to herself.

 

“So… um GaaraKun… does TsunadeSama intend to have you stay here while you're `guarding' me? If so I don't know how that's going to work out.”

 

Again, Gaara said nothing, “If you have to stay here I suppose you could occupy the living room.”

 

“I don't know though, wherever you feel comfortable I guess.”

 

“Would you shut up? Your ranting is getting on my nerves.”

 

“Gomen nasai GaaraKun, I'm just not sure how to look at this whole situation.” with that, both teens were silent. Kottashi finished washing dishes in silence. After she was done, she sat at the kitchen table with Gaara, who, to her disappointment, said nothing. An hour later, Shikamaru came home and Kottashi tackled him to the ground, yelling Shikamaru's number one fan girl.

 

Shikamaru had to suppress a laugh, he didn't want his sister to know how much he missed her Naruto-like antics. For a moment, he remembered the days where she'd come up out of nowhere and shout `Shikamaru's number one fan girl!' it was always when he was around his friends. Seems she still couldn't break that habit, though Gaara wasn't the best friend in the world, any friend of Naruto's, eventually became one of the village's friends.

 

Whether they wanted to admit it or not.

 

Most of the village was still reluctant to accept Naruto. However, the ninja among the community, and Teuchi the ramen shop keep and his daughter, all accepted Naruto, and his loud mouth personality. Somehow, the green haired youth reminded him of Naruto, or was it Naruto that reminded him of Kottashi?

 

“Hello, Shikamaru!!! Are you dead or something?” Shikamaru seemed to come out of his daze.

 

“You're so troublesome OneeChan.” Kottashi seemed to beam at the title.

 

“You know I am ShikaNii!!!” Shikamaru groaned.

 

“You won't ever stop calling me that, will you?”

 

“Not till you're married.”

 

“You're troublesome.” he said again.

 

“We went over that already, we know this, KamiSama!” sighing, Kottashi looked briefly at Gaara, “Shikamaru… GaaraKun has been forced to guard me, do you think if maybe, just maybe, if I stayed by HokageSama's side until she gets to know me, she'd let GaaraKun off the hook?”

 

“Sorry OneeChan, I don't think that's possible.” he looked at her defeated look, she hated being the cause of irritation to someone, and Gaara didn't look like he was having fun. “Well, how about this, I train with you for the next week or so, gauge your abilities, jutsu's and knowledge and whatnot, and I'll see what I can do.”

 

Lavender eyes beamed, “ARIGATOU SHIKANII!!!!!!” out of nowhere, Kottashi tackled the spiky brown haired youth to the floor.

 

“I hate to admit this, but I missed you tackling me every five seconds.” Kottashi giggled.

 

“C'mon, I don't tackle you every five seconds.”

 

“You're right, it's every other second.”

 

“Hehehe, ye-e-e-a-a-a-a-h.” drawing out the word, she laughed and nodded her head. Shikamaru then told Kottashi to get some rest, and told Gaara that he could venture where he wished, just not to go into the bedrooms and that all food was available to him. With a silent, glare, or should we say, stare, Shikamaru and Kottashi were off to bed.

 

 

-----With Naruto-----

 

 

Naruto drew his knee up from the edge to rest his chin upon it. The night sky was so beautiful when sitting on top of the Hokage monument. He stared into the sky, watching the stars glitter and twinkle, noticed the moons pale glow. One star stood out from the rest. It seemed the closest and brightest, biggest too. Blue eyes stared at it, contemplating thoughts and feelings. Today's events had him a little on edge and confused.

 

In some ways, he felt a little honored, and a little horrified. Sasuke considered him his closest friend, at that, Sasuke tried to kill him. However, he didn't. These thoughts coursed through his head. Was there anything else on that stone tablet? There was a lot more writing on it, but he had only read that one part. Tomorrow, far as he knew, Naruto had nothing to do, therefore, would be able to go check it out again. Perhaps tonight he could, he was that bored to go snooping about.

 

Then his mind wandered to Hinata. She was such an awesome person. Out of all the buildings, she found the one that gave them the information they needed. However, how did she find that one piece of information, among all that text? Perhaps, she only looked for the keyword…

 

Mangekyou Sharingan.

 

That must have been it, why she found it so fast, after only looking at it for a minute. Randomly his mind died on him then went to a totally random topic, all of concerning Hinata. The way her hair flowed behind her as she jumped from the hidden door to the secret room, her face when she concentrated on what she was looking for, curious expressions on her face, something that told him something was up. Shiver… she was shivering, saying it was nothing.

 

Someone was following them, wanting to do someone harm.

 

No, that couldn't be possible, a rouge ninja or anyone like that couldn't slip into Konoha that easily, and without detection from at least an ANBU or himself or a jounin. Then they seemed to get closer, he hugged her. He felt…

 

Warm inside.

 

Something he never truly felt before. True, when he was around Sakura in his younger years, his face got red, he thought he loved the girl for crying out loud! But with Hinata. Now, with Hinata, something was different. He didn't just think of her as that weird dark person that he liked. No, he saw her as a person whom he really got along with and cared much about. A little too much to be a friend caring about a friend. And then that kiss… after that, and then the not having his money for the ramen incident, his mind went nuts.

 

After Hinata had told him continuously it was ok, something in him snapped. What it was, he still couldn't figure it out, but somehow he knew, what he thought he had felt for Sakura all those years, he truly felt for a certain raven haired Hyuuga heiress named Hinata. Smiling to himself and the stars, he stood up. The wind gently blew against his black and orange clad jumpsuit as he jumped down from the high up monument.

 

He wasn't just going to sit there wandering about his friend Sasuke, he was going to find out what he needed to know. As soon as his feet hit the ground, something or someone crashed into him.

 

“Oh for KamiSama's sakes! Why does everyone get in my fucking way?!” yelled an extremely angered female voice.

 

“AnkoSan?” questioned the blond boy.

 

“Naruto? What are you doing out so--never mind, I don't have time for this. I gotta get to the Hokage.” Anko growled.

 

“Why, what happened AnkoSan?” Naruto asked, on alert.

 

Anko gritted her teeth together, “I'm not sure… but… the curse mark is gone.” Naruto stared at her shocked.

 

“I'll go with you.” Not wanting to get into an argument, she nodded and they were off.

 

Quickly they made their way up the stairs to Tsunade's office, where she currently had another visitor.

 

“BAACHAN, WE HAVE TO TALK IT'S IMPO-- HinataChan? What are you doing here?” Questioned Naruto as he busted through the door.

 

“What do you have to tell me Naruto, this better be good for interrupting me so late.” Tsunade said tiredly.

 

“Actually TsunadeSama… I have something that I think you'll be interested in.” Anko stepped into the room, in front of Naruto.

 

“What is it Anko?” The older blond women looked at her with a hard expression.

 

“Take a look at this.” Anko pulled down the collar of her jacket to reveal her neck, “the curse mark, it's disappeared altogether.”

 

Tsunade's eyes widened, “does this mean that… Orochimaru has been killed?”

 

“It's a possibility, and if that's true, I'm willing to bet Sasuke killed him. Orochimaru isn't the kind of person someone like Sasuke would stay under forever. Once Orochimaru lost his usefulness, I'm sure Sasuke probably got rid of him.” Reported the dark brunette woman.

 

“I see, this is highly interesting. I'll send some of our Jounin to look into it in the morning. As for your request Hinata, I don't see why you can't. Wait until morning though.” Naruto gave Tsunade a questioning gaze, “Hinata is going to research the Uchiha compound, Naruto, I want you to go with her.” As she witnessed a smile stretch ear to ear, she knew she got Naruto out of her hair for a while.

 

With that the three left without a word, what did all this mean. “Um... NarutoKun?” Hinata asked, as they exited the hokage's building.

 

“Yeah HinataChan?”

 

“ShiChan is… having a little trouble having GaaraKun as her body guard. Maybe you could help her understand him more.” Hinata gave him a pleading look.

 

The blond just smiled, “of course I'll help her! She is like a sister to me after all!” Hinata began a run towards the Nara residence after Naruto confirmed he`d help.

 

“Eh HinataChan… don't you think it's kind of late to go talk to her now?” Naruto blinked at her, was she nuts or something?

 

“NarutoKun,” she giggled, “you should know she's not asleep right now. My guess is she's either in her room pretending to be asleep, or on top of the Hokage monument.” putting a thoughtful index finger to his chin, Naruto's eyes widened and he nodded.

 

“So you're right, let's go HinataChan!” and so they rushed off to the Nara's home.

 

 

KI: Finally! I get some say in this stupid story!

 

K: It's not stupid!

 

I: You only say that because you're one of the main characters!

 

SI: That's just the way things are with her.

 

DK: All of you shut up! There's going to be a chapter for everyone! -growls-

 

KI K I SI: We don't have to listen to you!

 

T: ALL OF YOU SHUT UP I NEED TO CONCENTRATE!

 

All: Yes ma'am… -back up in fear-

 

DK: Besides, you DO have to listen to me, or I could make you all die a horrible death.

 

Ki K I SI: -shivers-

 

DK: In the next chapter! What's a girl to do when she can't sleep? What's a girl to do when her body forgets everything she's learned! How's a girl to survive?!