Naruto Fan Fiction ❯ Naruto vs. Sasuke The Aftermath ❯ Naruto Reacts ( Chapter 18 )

Chapter 18 Summary: As Naruto attempts to come to terms with what Sasuke did to Sakura and her betrayal; he is hit with the news of Kakashi’s battle for life. All of this pushes Naruto to the edge emotionally and it will take the effort of two of his most precious people to subdue the fury rising within him.


Naruto vs Sasuke The Aftermath


Chapter 18 “Naruto Reacts”

As Naruto took a few more shaking steps away from the others, the weight of everything he had just learned became too much and he collapsed to his knees on the ground. With his head sunk low, he desperately tried to hold back the tears welling in his eyes. The emotions running through Naruto's mind were spinning out of control and he felt himself slipping into a world of darkness and despair. And just when Naruto felt that he would be completely lost in his misery, a pair of arms embraced him from behind and he heard a soft and loving voice say to him as if it were a beacon to lead him away from this darkness.

"I'm here Naru-Kun, I'll always be here. It will be alright, I promise."

Naruto turned around to see the soft comforting face of Hinata filled with love and concern for him and he finally let go of his tears. Hinata hugged him once more as he buried his face into the crook of her neck and began to softly weep as he held onto her as tightly as he could. As the others looked on at the couple a short distance away, all of them felt deeply saddened about what Naruto must be going through after hearing this horrible news. They couldn't even begin to fathom how he was feeling knowing that a girl he once loved so completely had been assaulted by a boy he once thought of as a brother. All the more painful was the fact that these two people who Naruto had once cherished more than anyone else had betrayed him most callously. If there was one common reaction everyone felt about what had happened to Sakura, it was a feeling of sympathy for their classmate and friend currently being held by Hinata. As Hinata held him, she quietly whispered to Naruto caring assurances that he would be all right. After a few minutes, Naruto's tears began to lessen and he quietly said.

"Thank you my hime. I love you so much. I don't know what I would do without you?"

Hinata held him a little bit tighter and kissed the top of his head in response to his declaration before saying.

"I feel the same way Naru-Kun, I love you too with all my heart and soul."

As the two continued to hug one another, Hinata inwardly sighed to herself in relief. It had taken all the courage she could gather to walk over to Naruto and give him the comfort and support he desperately needed at that moment. She still felt the paralyzing fear that what had happened could drive Naruto and Sakura together. But she would not let it rule her thinking or in doing what is right. Which at the moment was to be there in all facets for Naruto. Hinata did not know what the future held in store for the two of them after this. All she could do was hope and pray that the love they had for one another would be strong enough to see them through it all.

"I, I just can't believe this has happened. Kiba and Shino have got to be wrong. Maybe they’re lying or this is some sort of twisted joke they're doing? There's no way Sakura would desert the village, not for that teme. Would she? I mean to betray everyone just to be with, with him. She couldn't do that could she Hinata?" Naruto hesitantly asks.

Hinata felt so sad for her boyfriend that moment as she held Naruto while listening to his questions. She already knew that everything they had heard from her teammates about Sakura was true. She also knew that deep down Naruto knew that it was true as well. Right now his mind was in a state of denial about Sakura because of his heart. Hinata realized that Naruto was grasping for any assurance that Sakura wouldn't do this. It wasn't her betrayal of everyone that had upset Naruto so much. It was her betrayal of him that was causing him pain. Hinata knew she could lie to Naruto and agree with him, but that wouldn't help him in the long run. As painful as this was for Naruto, he had to come to terms with she had done. Hinata answered her boyfriend's plea with the truth, but it saddened her in doing so because she knew it wouldn't alleviate his suffering right now, and she quietly said.

"I'm sorry Naru-Kun. I know it's hard and painful for you to accept what she has done. But Kiba and Sbino aren't lying and this isn't a joke on their part. I know it hurts Naru-Kun, but I think deep down you know what they said is true."

Naruto remained silent as he continued to embrace Hinata; until he finally let go and looked into her eyes before be dropped his head down and said with regret.

"You're right Hinata-Chan, I know they're telling the truth about Sakura. It's just so hard to accept that she would do something like this to her family and friends and to me."

Hinata took hold of his hand and kissed it softly, before saying with compassion.

"It's alright Naru-Kun, I understand you're just hurting right now, but it will get better, you just have to believe it will.”

Naruto nodded his head and gave a small smile to Hinata, before they heard Kurenai shout out Kiba and Shino's name in a very angry tone. Both Hinata and Naruto hadn't even realized that Kurenai had arrived, but with one look at her, they both knew she was upset about something. Naruto helped Hinata get to her feet before they went over to see what was going on with her teammates and Sensei.

As Kurenai approached the training grounds, she expected to hear the normal sounds of sparring matches or training exercises, but as she strained her hearing to listen more closely, she heard nothing. When she finally arrived, the sight she beheld was surprising to her. All of the rookies present along with Neji, Tenten and Temari were strewn about the field in a daze, as an eerie silence seemed to hover over the training grounds. Off a little ways from the others Hinata was embracing and giving comfort to Naruto who seemed very distraught over something. Shikamaru was lying on the ground along side Temari who was resting her head on his stomach, as both of them stared aimlessly skyward. Neji was sitting in deep contemplation as Tenten had her arm wrapped around him and rested her head on his shoulder. Ino sat alone hugging her knees to her chest. Chouji also sat alone, but shockingly was not eating anything. And finally Kiba and Shino sat silently together, while Akamaru was lazily chewing on a stick in between them. Kurenai knew that something was amiss, as this was not the normal behavior when this group of people got together. Clearing her throat to gain everyone's attention she said with authority.

"Ahem, if this is a new training method you all are doing, I have to say I'm not impressed. I might expect this kind of lazy behavior from the rookies, but I'm surprised to see this lack of effort from a team with Gai Maito as its Sensei."

"Were sorry Lady Kurenai, we all just heard the news about Sakura and what Sasuke did to her. Nobody seemed to feel like training after that.” Tenten contritely replied.

Kurenai's eyes grew wide in shock that they had heard of what had happened. She herself had only learned about it that very morning along with all the other Jounin who participated in the Sakura retrieval mission. Kurenai grew angry at the thought of a Jounin blatantly discussing a Class A mission with Genin, and knew there would be some Hell to pay for that individual once she found out who it was. In a stern voice tinged with anger, she asked.

"How is it all of you know what has happened? Who would be so foolish and stupid to disclose information about a classified mission with you? I want to know, and I want to know now!"

Nobody said anything, but a few eyes shifted towards Kiba and Shino which Kurenai immediately noticed and turned her attention to her two students. The both of them were staring at the ground and fidgeting slightly and she knew right then they were responsible for divulging the information to the others. Now she needed to know how they had learned of what had happened. Letting loose a small amount of killing intent towards her students, Kurenai ordered in a booming voice as Akamaru slowly skulked away.

"Kiba Inuzuka, Shino Aburame, front and center now!"

Both Kiba and Shino snapped to attention immediately and appeared before Kurenai, each one shaking slightly as they knew when she referred to them by their full names, they were in deep trouble. Kurenai glared at the two for a minute as she attempted to curb her anger to deal with them before saying in a voice dripping with malice.

"Am I to assume that we have you two to thank for discussing information about a classified A ranked security mission without authorization to do so?”

Both Kiba and Shino looked sheepishly towards the ground before each one nodded their head in admission to what their Sensei had just asked. This caused another blast of killing intent from Kurenai towards the two, as the rest of the people present backed away a little more from them. After taking a moment to calm down, Kurenai ordered the two to explain to her how they knew what had happened, and what they had divulged so far. After a few minutes of stammering explanation of how they learned and what they had revealed to the others, Kurenai was furious and shouted with rage.

“Enough!”

This immediately shut up the two Genin, as they both nervously waited for what might happen next. Kurenai looked at her two students with disgust, before angrily saying.

"Well you two have done a exceptional job of pissing me off the last couple of days, but this by far is the worst. I cannot believe the two of you would be so reckless and stupid as to actively seek and divulge classified information about a Class A mission. I'm especially disappointed in you Shino. I might expect something this foolish from Kiba, but I never would have imagined anything like this coming from you. I hope it was worth it, what you've done could be considered an act of treason by some, which is punishable by imprisonment. At the very least I could have you both stripped of your Shinobi status and expelled from its ranks. Now, do either one of you have anything to say?"

This caused Kiba’s head to jerk upward with a panicked look on his face, which did not go unnoticed by his teammate. Before Kiba could say anything, the normally silent insect user spoke up surprising everyone and said to Kurenai.

"I deeply regret our actions Kurenai Sensei. What we did was indeed foolish and quite stupid. The only defense of our actions I can offer is one of ignorance. We didn't realize that we couldn't discuss the mission with our fellow Shinobi. And we only discussed the mission because it involved one of our friends and classmate. I thought the mission was over when Sakura was brought in yesterday to the hospital. But ignorance is no excuse for our transgressions. However, I do ask that you spare Kiba-San from any penalties that arise from this matter. It was my idea to commit this act and it was done through the use of my Kekkai insects. Kiba’s only crime in this is guilt by association. I will accept whatever punishment you deem fit for what we have done, but please spare Kiba-San of any sanctions.”

“What, that’s bullshit! What the Hell is up with you Shino? Did you really think I would let you take the rap for this by yourself! Don’t listen to him Kurenai Sensei. I’m every bit as guilty of this crime as he is. I could have stopped what we were doing at anytime, but I didn’t. Any punishments handed down to Shino, I deserve as well. In fact, I should be the one go down because of this, not Shino” Kiba growled in defense of his friend to his teacher.

“Kurenai Sensei, I feel I too must be included to receive any penalties from this matter. Although I had no prior knowledge of what my two teammates were doing. They are my teammates as well as my friends, and I will not allow them to be sacrificed alone. If any successes we have are celebrated as a team effort, then so to must our failures be punished as a team. If Shino-Kun or Kiba-Kun were to suffer penalties from this, then so shall I. Even if it means I must give up my Shinobi status along with them.” Hinata announced to her Sensei with no hesitation or stutter in her voice.

This proclamation by Hinata stunned everyone there who heard it, and all eyes turned to the fuming Jounin to see what her reaction to all of this would be. As Kurenai stared at her three students, she couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in all of them. And as angry as she was with Shino and Kiba, the fact that each one was willing to sacrifice himself for his teammates well being was the truest test of teamwork and loyalty. Even more shocking was the fact that Hinata, who had nothing to do with what her teammates had done, was willing to go down with them for the sake of their team and their friendship. Kurenai didn't exactly know what she had done to instill this bond within all of them, but it made her feel good that her students were as strongly committed to one another as any team Gai Maito would have taught. She realized to break up such a team would be a mistake and a waste of all the training they had gone through. The strength and resolve her team was showing her today, gave Kurenai the confidence that they may yet become one of the strongest three man cells Konoha has seen in over a generation. Shaking her head, she exhaled a heavy sigh before saying.

"Well I must say I'm very proud of all of you for your loyalty to one another even in times of crisis. It's obvious the bond you have formed as a team will serve you all greatly over the years. But I hope you all now recognize the seriousness of this matter, and though I am well within my rights to do, I will not have any of you stripped of your Shinobi status."

All three of her students breathed a sigh of relief and smiled brightly before Kurenai pointed and said directly to Shino and Kiba in a stem voice.

"I'd wipe those smiles off of your faces in were you two and you should both thank Hinata for saving your Shinobi careers. I cannot allow her to sacrifice her own career over you two knuckleheads. Plus the fact that if I got rid of you two, she would be saddled with two brand new academy Genin, which would set her training back months while they caught up. However, that's a moot point considering she'd rather go down with you two idiots than for that to happen. But I swear if either one of you pulls a stunt like this again, even Hinata won't be able to save your butts! You got that?"

"Yes Kurenai Sensei." Kiba and Shino say in unison, before Kurenai ads.

"But don't think that this is the end of things. The two of you are still going to be punished for what you did. I just haven't figured out yet what I want to do. And Hinata that was very noble of you to offer yourself up for punishment along with your teammates, but you will not be punished. I happen to have a sense of fair play and justice and I will not let an innocent person suffer the fates of the guilty, no matter how willingly you volunteer for the sake of your teammates and friends. Do all three of you understand what I’ve just said?"

Hinata, Kiba and Shino nod their heads solemnly in understanding, when Chouza Akimichi suddenly arrived at the training grounds interrupting everyone's train of thought as he out to.

"Naruto, I need you to come with me to the hospital, it's about Kakashi."

"What about Kakashi Sensei? The hospital is he alright Chouza-San?" Naruto hurriedly asks.

"No Naruto, he's not alright. In fact he's gravely ill, that's why I'm here. Gai asked me to inform you of his condition and thought you may want to see him, while you still can. Chouza somberly replies.

Both Naruto and Kurenai stiffened upon hearing this from Chouza. Naruto's face bore a look of shock on it, as it felt like someone had punched him in the gut for the second time that morning. Kurenai's face remained calm, as befitting a Jounin Shinobi who knew how to keep their emotions in check. However while her outside appearance remained placid, her insides were in turmoil. Kurenai was struggling and had been for the past several weeks trying to sort out what her feelings were towards Kakashi. And to now suddenly hear that he was possibly dying, nearly caused her to fall to her knees in shock. A jumble of questions went through her mind seemingly all at once, as she attempted to regain her focus. What happened? How was he hurt? Who injured him? When was he hurt? Where had he been? Kurenai didn't even know that he had returned from his escort mission of the Kazekage of Suna back to his homeland. Why didn’t she know about any of this?

Unbeknownst to Kurenai, Tsunade had purposely omitted this fact at the Jounin meeting this morning when she briefed them all on the status of the retrieval mission. There still existed a few people inside Konoha who bore resentment towards Kakashi over the actions his father took in the Third Great Shinobi war. And while they would never dare seek revenge against a healthy Kakashi, they might try something against a weakened and incapacitated one. Kakashi also had some powerful enemies outside of the village who may also attempt to end his life if they learned of his current condition. So Tsunade thought it best to keep Kakashi' s health status as confidential as long as she could.

"Dad, is that who the stimulant is for that I helped you prepare last night?" Chouji asks.

"Yes son, it is." Chouza grimly replies.

Chouji's face went ashen in color and after a moment he turned to Naruto and said with remorse.

"You should go with my father Naruto and see Kakashi-San."

Naruto saw the change in Chouji's face, and heard the intensity in his voice and asked his friend nervously.

"What is it Chouji? Is it really that bad."

"Kakashi-San is suffering from an overdose of the Akimichi Food pills, and yes that's very bad Naruto. I don't want say anymore because I'm not as knowledgeable about it as my father is. He can tell you everything about it Naruto better than I can.” Chouji states.

Naruto and Chouji look over to the elder Akimichi who nods his head and says he will explain everything to Naruto while they travel to the hospital. Naruto begins to walk over to the large Jounin when he notices that Hinata has not followed him. Turning around he sees she is still standing in the spot they were in and he calls out inviting her to go with him. Hinata fidgeted a bit as she stared at the ground. She was certain that once Naruto got to the hospital to see Kakashi, he would also more than likely visit Sakura. And Hinata wasn’t sure if she was strong enough to handle witnessing that reunion. The fear that she would lose Naruto to Sakura was still lurking in the back of her mind; no matter how hard she fought to drive it away. But she knew that Naruto needed to go to the hospital for both Kakashi and Sakura and more importantly for himself. Hinata would not cause problems or stand in the way of that and forcing a smile onto her face she looked up and said.

“It’s alright Naruto, you don’t want me there, I’ll just be in the way. You go on and see Kakashi-San and Sakura too. I’ll just stay here, it will be ok.”

“You’re right Hinata-Chan, I don’t want you there.” Naruto replied as he saw her face become crestfallen before adding.

“I need you there my hime! And for future reference, when you’re with me Hinata-Chan, you are never in the way.”

Hinata’s face lit up, as she heard Naruto’s caring words, while the other women present all blushed slightly at how sweet and affectionate Naruto could be. Before some of them shot disapproving glares at some of the males present. Hinata began to walk towards Naruto and noticed Kurenai looking nervous. Hinata asked Naruto if it would be all right for Kurenai Sensei to also come with them, as she would feel better with her teacher present. Kurenai looked at her student a moment and gave a slight smile to the girl. She had been racking her brain to come up with a plausible reason why she should go as well to see Kakashi, and Hinata had presented the answer to her on a silver plate. Naruto easily agreed and politely asked to the female Jounin if she would accompany them to the hospital. Kurenai humbly accepted the offer and thanked Naruto for it before she made her way over to him. Before they all left to go to the hospital, Kurenai turned back to the group of young Genin and said to her two pupils.

"Kiba and Shino, as part of your punishment for your errors in judgment. You two are going to have a most painful workout today. Akamaru is excused from this, but as for you two. First, you are going to run 100 laps around the training grounds and you only have an hour to complete it in. I suggest you try to do it as quickly as you can, so you can rest up as much as possible, because in exactly one hour the second phase of your workout will begin."

"But Kurenai-Sensei that's a five mile run, and what is this second phase of our workout?" Kiba asks with trepidation in his voice.

"The second phase Kiba is a no holds barred battle royal sparring match with you and Shino against everyone else here. In fact I'm ordering all of you except you Temari-San, you may participate only if you wish to. But none of you is to hold back in your spar with my two students, is that clear?" Kurenai says with authority.

"How far may we go Lady Kurenai?" Neji asks with an evil gleam to his eyes as he stares intently at Kiba.

"You can't kill them." Kurenai said with a smirk before she jumped away with Chouza, Naruto, and Hinata towards the hospital.

As they all watched the two Jounin and their friends leap away, Neji began cracking his knuckles which did not go unnoticed by Kiba and Shino, who began running their laps around the training grounds as quickly as they could. While the others waited for them to finish their laps, no one was saying a word and the silence was palpable, as they thought about everything they had learned that morning. After a few minutes of this uneasy silence, it was Ino who finally attempted to change the subject of everyone’s thoughts by saying.

"Did anyone else notice how cut Naruto looked without his shirt on?"

"Oh my God, I know! His chest looked like it had been chiseled out of stone!" Tenten exclaimed with glee.

"And you could crack walnuts on that six pack of abs he has!" Temari lustfully said.

The three girls then walked away from their stunned male counterparts, still giggling and talking about Naruto's physique as they went. Both Neji and Shikamaru stared at the group of kunoichi's in disbelief, as both of them subconsciously began to examine their own body's muscularity, before they each caught the other doing so. Straightening up immediately, Neji and Shikamaru wouldn't make eye contact with the other, as each one desperately searched for something to say. Neji eventually spoke up and said in a defensive tone, while Shikamaru nodded his head in agreement.

"It doesn't matter, were both still smarter than Naruto."

"That may be, but then why aren't the girls talking about the size of your brains, instead of the size of certain anatomical features on Naruto?” Chouji stated with a smirk and a chuckle, while Neji and Shikamaru glared furiously at him as he walked away.

When Naruto and the others finally arrived at the hospital, they all paused a moment to catch their breath as each one attempted to absorb everything Chouza had told them about Kakashi's condition. Naruto was visibly shaken at the prospect of Kakasbi's health from what he had learned from Chouza. The look on Kurenai's face was passive, but inside she was experiencing a confusing mix of several emotions about Kakashi. But through all the turmoil she was feeling, one thing she knew for certain, she did not want to lose him. Hinata could see that the two people she cared for most of all were in pain over this revelation about Kakashi. And it frustrated her not to be able to help them more. All she could do right now is be there for each one of them when they were ready and she was needed. As they entered the hospital, and made their way over to the ICU wing of the hospital, Naruto was growing anxious. The barrage of news he had heard about his former teammate and his Sensei was beginning to take a heavy toll on his psyche. His stress level was already at the breaking point and it wouldn't take much to send him over the edge. Hinata could sense the tension rising within him and taking his hand into hers she softly said.

"It will be ok Naruto, just try to calm down."

The feel of Hinata's hand and the sound of her voice produced the desired effect and Naruto did relax a little bit. It always surprised Naruto how the smallest gestures on her part towards him, always made him feel good no matter what situation he was in. He smiled at her and felt even better when she returned her own smile. Naruto brought her hand he was holding and kissed it softly, as they reached the doorway to Kakashi's room and Chouza knocked on the door. A weary looking Gai answered and saw everyone there and motioned for them to wait while he informed Kakashi they were there.

Kakashi was desperately fighting off another agony filled spasm when Gai approached him to let him know that Naruto, Kurenai, and Hinata were there to see him. Kakashi's eyes grew wide when he heard this, and he bit down on the mouthpiece Chouza had given him to help endure the pain. A feeling of happiness washed through his body, as the three people he had come to care for deeply over the past few months were there to see him. Unfortunately, that feeling was short lived as another spasm racked his body. He had hoped that he could survive his ordeal without them knowing about it or having to worry about him. As much as he wanted to see all three of his visitors, he vigorously shook his head at Gai indicating not to let them in before he mumbled in anguish through the mouthpiece.

"N, no, not like this."

Gai nodded his head in understanding before exiting the room as Chouza went in to give Kakashi the Akimichi stimulant. Gai looked at the three worried faces of Kakashi's visitors and knew they would be hurt by his refusal to see them, even though he understood his rival's reason. As he informed them, he saw a very pained expression spread across the faces of both Naruto and more surprising on Kurenai. Although her expression lasted only a moment before it reverted back to the placid look most Jounin carried to mask their emotions. Naruto however had not learned how to do this, and the look of hurt on his face broke the heart of the Taijutsu master as he looked upon him.

However, Kurenai while masking her pain from the others, felt like she would go to pieces at any moment. She inwardly cursed at herself for feeling like this; it's not as though she and Kakashi were in any type of relationship. They were friends and had shared a kiss, nothing more. But then why did his refusal to see her hurt so much? It was then that Kurenai realized that while she may try to fool herself into believing that there is nothing going on between her and Kakashi. Deep down she had developed strong feelings for the man and had secretly hoped that maybe, he had feelings for her as well. Obviously with his refusal to see her, that hope had been crushed. Kurenai almost laughed at the absurdity of her feelings. She didn't know how or even why she had come to care about Kakashi so much. She hadn't even felt like this when she and Asuma were together, but for some unexplainable reason she did for the masked Jounin. Now knowing that he didn't feel the same about her left Kurenai feeling like a lovesick fool. As much as she wanted to be angry with Kakashi for this, she found that she couldn’t. It wasn't his fault that he didn't feel the same way about her as she did for him, but that didn't lessen the pain she felt. Fearful that she wouldn't be able to maintain her calm facade for much longer, she knew she had to get away from there. Making up some flimsy excuse about checking on Kiba and Shino, Kurenai bid a hasty farewell to Gai, Naruto, and Hinata who had her Byakugan activated for some reason, before she exited the hospital. Once outside, Kurenai dropped her emotional mask and clutched her sides, as small sob escaped her mouth and tears began flowing down her face. Anko who had been approaching the hospital to deliver a report she and Ibiki had compiled of the information they had obtained from the Oto nin prisoner to Tsunade, saw her friend in pain and ran over to her. Putting her hand on Kurenai's shoulder, she asked what was wrong before Kurenai slapped her hand away and spat with venom.

"Like you care about my feelings!"

A look of deep hurt spread across Anko's face and she looked to the ground before Kurenai leapt away from her. Anko stood where she was for a moment and then wiped a tear away from her eye, before turning and dejectedly walking back towards the hospital.

Meanwhile, still inside Naruto was still trying to understand why Kakashi didn't want to see him. What had he done? Was the bond he thought he and Kakashi had been developing the past few months been nothing more than a stupid wish on his part? Gai could see the hurt, confused, and frustrated expression on Naruto, and said to the young Genin.

"Naruto, please don't think ill of Kakashi for not seeing you, he has his reasons."

Naruto heard the green clad Jounin and looked at him with a stoic expression on his face before he replied.

"It doesn't matter Gai-San. He's just someone else who said they cared about me when they didn't. It's happened before to me, so I'll survive." Naruto replied with stoicism before turning to walk away with Hinata when he heard Gai say.

"That's not true Naruto. I happen to know that Kakashi cares a great deal about you which is why he doesn't wish to see you right now."

'"That doesn't make any sense Gai-San! If he cares about me so much, why wouldn't he let me see him?" Naruto replies with frustration.

"It's because he cares about you that he doesn't want you to see him in such a fragile and weakened state. He doesn't want you to worry about him Naruto, that's why he's doing this." Gai answered.

“That seems pretty dumb to me Gai-San. I already know he’s hurt and in pain. I don’t understand why seeing me should be a problem?” Naruto says.

“Oh really Naruto, pretty dumb you say. Well let me ask you this. If you’re hurt and in pain, would you want Hinata to see you like that knowing there was nothing she could do to help you? All she would be able to do is worry about you, and all you could do is see her concern and sadness. Now, does my eternal rival’s refusal to see you seem so dumb now?” Gai asked.

“No Gai-San, it doesn’t.” Naruto begrudgingly agreed.

“Naruto, I promise you the moment he is willing to accept visitors, you shall be the first to know. I know it’s hard, but try not to worry about him and remain positive. Kakashi’s flames of youth are indeed strong and I swear I will do everything in my power to see that they are not extinguished before there time, yosh!” Gai announced with fervor before giving a thumbs up to Naruto and heading back into the room.

Naruto remained rooted to the hospital floor, rigid and quiet before Hinata spoke to him and said.

Gai-San is right, there’s nothing we can do for Kakashi-San right now. From what Chouza-San told us, this is a fight he must endure himself. If having people that he cares about around him would hinder that fight, the best thing we can do is respect his wishes and pray that he will win Naruto-Kun.” Hinata says to her disheartened boyfriend.

The doctor who had assisted Tsunade earlier during Sakura's awakening overheard Hinata say Naruto's name as he was walking by the young couple, when he stopped and asked.

''I'm sorry, did I hear this girl call you Naruto?"

"Yeah I'm Naruto." The blonde Genin soberly replied.

"Ah, you must be here to see Sakura Haruno. I'm very sorry about what has happened to your girlfriend. This is such a terrible thing to happen to one so young, a tragedy without question. But I want you to know she loves you very much." The Medic Nin stated with compassion.

"What are you talking about?" A very confused Naruto exclaimed.

"I, I just meant I know she loves you because when we attempted to awaken Ms. Haruno this morning from her medically induced coma, she was extremely disoriented and cried out several times for you to save her and that she loved you. We finally had to put her under again for fear she might injure herself." The doctor stammered, as he was momentarily taken aback by Naruto's response.

Naruto was shocked beyond comprehension after hearing what the doctor had just told him. So stunned was he by this revelation, he wasn't even aware that the doctor had begun escorting him away from Hinata towards Sakura's room.

When Hinata heard what the Medic Nin said, she felt as though her life had just ended at that moment. The fear she had battled so desperately to control that morning seemed to erupt within her and take control. All she could do is stare wide-eyed at Naruto as the doctor was leading him away from her towards Sakura, and seemingly out of her life forever. Hinata wanted to cry out in anguish as the thing she feared most in her life was happening right before her eyes, but found she could not utter a sound. When Naruto rounded the corner and out of view, is when Hinata broke down as the tears cascaded down her face. She quickly turned and ran out of the hospital, her only thought as she ran was to get away.

Naruto who was still trying to process everything finally snapped out of his daze when he heard the doctor say.

“Here we are young man.”

"Where are we?" Naruto still confused asked.

“Why were at Ms. Haruno’s room. I’ve already sent word for Hokage Tsunade to join us. As soon as she arrives, we’ll attempt to reawaken Ms. Haruno again and then you can visit with her.” The Medic Nin replied.

“No!”

“I’m sorry, what was that?” The bewildered doctor asked.

“I said no! I don’t want to see Ms. Haruno, you got that!” Naruto coldly says, as his anger is building within him.

“What do you mean you don’t want to see her? Do you have any idea what that girl has been through young man!” The doctor said the disgust evident in his tone.

“I’m know what she’s been through, but I’m not ready to see her yet.” Naruto replied.

“You selfish little punk! How dare you refuse to see this girl if you know everything that happened to her! This girl needs you right now! I’m sure she has supported you during times of trouble, the least you could do is be there for her now.” The doctor said with anger and contempt to the young blonde Genin.

“Shut up, you don’t know anything!” Naruto angrily responds as some killing intent emanates from him towards the Medic Nin.

“That poor girl, to think she has given her love to someone as pathetic as you. I shouldn’t be surprised, the girl is human and not a monster like you - - argggh!” The doctor began to say before a hand wrapped around his throat and lifted him off the floor. As the doctor struggled to get a breath, he looked down into the enraged face of the Hokage who shouted.

“What the Hell do you think you’re doing doctor?

The Medic Nin attempted to explain in between choked breaths the situation to Tsunade. Near the end of his statement, he made the grave error of almost referring to Naruto as a demon before a swift punch from the Hokage sent him flying down the hallway unconscious and with a shattered jaw. Tsunade then turned her attention to Naruto who was still giving off a massive amount of killing intent and was shaking with rage, as he stared at the ground. She spoke softly to Naruto to find out why he was there and what had happened, before Naruto replied with anger.

“I’m here Hokage-Sama because I found out what happened to Kakashi Sensei and I came here to see him. But Kakashi-Sensei didn’t want to see me. The next thing I know is that asshole doctor is dragging me off to see Sakura and spewing some crap about her loving me! Then when I told the jerk I didn’t want to see Sakura, he got all pissy with me and called me a monster and all sorts of other vile crap before you came along.”

Tsunade knew Naruto was definitely upset when he referred to her by her title and not his usual greeting of baa-chan. As she listened to Naruto, Tsunade realized the doctor had done an excellent job of upsetting him and she made a mental note to kick the shit out of that doctor some more later on. Inside, she felt horrible that Naruto had learned of what had happened to Sakura and Kakashi. Even worse thanks to the doctor, Naruto now knew of Sakura’s bedside confession of love for him. And one look at the orange clad Genin before her, she could tell he was having difficulty dealing with that piece of news. The killing intent coming from Naruto had not abated and was actually rising within him. Tsunade was struggling to say something that would help to calm him down, before she finally said.

“I’m sorry Naruto-Kun. I had hoped to spare you a little while longer about the news of Sakura and Kakashi until they were better physically. I apologize that you had to find out about it from anyone but me. But there’s nothing you can do for either one of them right now. I know you’re upset but please try and calm down.”

“Upset, you think I’m upset Hokage-Sama! I’m not upset! I’m way beyond upset, I’m furious!” Naruto shouted with rage.

Tsunade realized that to pursue this conversation might be a risky for all involved. But Naruto needed to recognize and vent the anger he was feeling. Naruto’s demeanor and the way he spoke seemed to suggest that he wasn’t angry at any one thing or person. But that his anger appeared to be without direction and that was dangerous for everyone and everything with the ever-present threat of Kyuubi taking over his mind and body. However, while Naruto’s anger seemingly looked directionless, Tsunade suspected otherwise. In a calm and caring voice Tsunade began to ask Naruto a series of questions.

“Naruto, who are you angry with? Are you angry at that doctor?”

“Yes!” Naruto hissed.

“Are you angry at me?”

“Yes!”

“Are you angry at Kakashi?”

“Yes!”

“Are you angry at Jiraiya?”

“Yes!”

“Are you angry at - - -.”

“Stop!” Naruto yelled interrupting Tsunade before adding.

“I’ll save you time baa-chan! I’m angry with everybody!”

Tsunade stared at her grandson a moment before her hand shot forth and administered a resounding smack across his face, stunning Naruto completely, before she looked into his face and said with authority.

“Bullshit!”

Naruto could only stare at the woman in front of him, unable to formulate a response, when he heard her ask.

“Who are you really angry with?”

Naruto turned his head away as some tears leaked out of his eyes and he mumbled.

“Everyone.”

Tsunade gripped his head with her hands and forced Naruto to look at her and asked once more.

“Who are you really angry with Naruto?”

“Ev, everyone.” Naruto stammered.

“Who!” Tsunade shouted.

Naruto couldn’t take it anymore, and wrenching his head from hands and her gaze screamed back.

“Sakura! I’m angry with Sakura! Are you happy now baa-chan?”

With that said, Naruto fell back against the hallway wall and slumped to the ground, his head hung low as he quietly wept and said.

“I’m angry with Sakura. I just can’t help it. I know what Sasuke did to her and I know she’s suffering and in pain. But right now when I think of her, all I feel is a rage building inside me. I just can’t get it out of my mind that she was willing to betray everyone, willing to betray me just to be with that teme. I’m sorry baa-chan, you probably think I’m a terrible person, but I can’t see Sakura right now, not like this.”

Tsunade knelt down and embraced Naruto in a hug as he wept into her shoulder. After a few minutes, his tears subsided and as she helped him wipe the remaining few away she said.

“I don’t think you’re a terrible person Naruto-Kun. You have every right to feel the way you do. Please don’t let the anger you’re feeling right now consume you. That’s what happened to your friend Sasuke, and look where that path has taken him. It’s ok to be angry with Sakura, what she did hurt you deeply, I understand. You don’t have to see her if you don’t want to.”

“Thanks baa-chan. I’m sorry I said I was angry at you and the others, I’m not.”

“I know Naruto-Kun, you were just upset. But you need to remember; there are a lot of people who care about you and always will, never forget that.” Tsunade said with a smile as she helped Naruto to his feet before adding.

“In fact I wish a certain lavender eyed girlfriend who cares very deeply for you had been here. From what I’ve heard, she’s pretty good at keeping you from getting upset.”

“Hinata, she’s here. Hey Hinata where are you?” Naruto asked he looked about the hallway before realizing she wasn’t there.

Naruto then sprinted down the hallway and rounded the corner to look where he last remembered seeing her, but saw nothing. Dashing back to Tsunade, he said with a little bit of panic in his voice.

“She’s not there. I don’t know what happened to her?”

Tsunade grew uneasy and took a guess at what would cause Hinata to leave without saying anything to Naruto. Taking a moment to calm the boy down, she asked.

“I’m sure she’s fine Naruto, when was the last time you saw her?”

“I don’t know, I think, yeah that’s right. She was with me when we came to visit Kakashi Sensei, then that stupid doctor came along spouting that garbage about me being Sakura’s boyfriend and how Sakura was in love with me. Then he dragged me off to see her. I thought Hinata was following us, but I can’t be sure? Do you think Hinata is upset with me baa-chan?” Naruto replied with worry.

Tsunade inwardly winced and realized that damn doctor had probably upset Hinata greatly with what he had said. Tsunade remembered a conversation she had a couple of weeks ago with Kurenai about the young couple, and Kurenai had shared with her that Hinata suffered from a inferiority complex and a deep seeded fear of losing Naruto to Sakura. The Medic Nin telling Naruto about Sakura’s love confession and calling her Naruto’s girlfriend had probably hurt Hinata deeply. Tsunade felt that Naruto needed to find the girl as soon as possible and alleviate her fears. Turning back to Naruto, she answered with tentative assurance.

“No Naruto, I don’t think Hinata is upset with you. She probably thought you would want to visit with Sakura by yourself, and wanted to give the two of you some privacy. I’m sure she’s ok, but you should go find and talk to her and make sure everything is alright.”

“Thanks baa-chan, I’ll go look for her right now. I’ll see you later.” Naruto hastily answered before racing away from the Hokage and out of the hospital.

It took Naruto awhile to locate Hinata, as she had masked her chakra signature once again. Landing atop the fourth's head on Hokage Mountain, he found Hinata with her arms wrapped around her knees and her head hidden in her lap. Naruto took a step forward and called out

“Hinata-Chan.”

Hinata was startled at the sound of her name and quickly turned her back to Naruto to hide the fact that she had been crying. She quickly tried to wipe away any remnants of tears when she heard Naruto say.

"Hinata-Chan, I need to talk to you."

Hinata winced at this, as she was sure this was the moment Naruto was going to leave her for Sakura. She thought to herself that she had been a fool to think that she could ever overcome the feelings Naruto held for Sakura. And now with Sakura finally revealing her true feelings of love for Naruto, something he had dreamed of for years. She knew there would be no way he could reject those feelings, not for someone like her. Hinata didn't feel any anger or hatred towards Naruto because of this. She loved Naruto more than anything or anyone and wanted nothing but happiness for him. And if Sakura could provide the love and happiness he had craved for so long from her. Hinata decided she would bow out gracefully and be grateful for the time she had with her one true love. Sniffling once, Hinata tried to muster enough courage to speak in a confident voice and with her face still turned away from him said.

"It's alright Naruto, you don't need to say anything, I understand. I won't cause any problems for you. You won't have to see me anymore."

Naruto gasped when he heard this and he dropped to the ground, as he suddenly lost the strength in his legs to keep him upright. His breathing increased rapidly as panic and sorrow were beginning to grip his body and mind. Staring at the ground before him, he fought to hold back the tears welling in his eyes and asked in a choked voice.

"Are, are you leaving me Hinata? Why? What did I do, please tell me? I, I don't want to lose you."

Hinata heard the saddened pain filled plea and quickly turned around to see Naruto on his knees with tears streaming down his face. Forgetting everything at that moment she rushed over to him and hugged him close, as her own tears erupted from her eyes and she said in a stammering voice.

"N, no Naruto, I'm not leaving you. I, I thought you were breaking up with me. I'm sorry I hurt you. Please don't be sad anymore."

"Why? Why would you think I would breakup with you ritoru hana? I never want to be without you. You mean everything to me Hinata." Narnto replied, as he hugged his girlfriend tightly fearful if he let go she would disappear forever.

"You, you are my world as well Naruto. I'm so sorry. I thought you wouldn't want to be with me anymore now that Sakura has admitted she loves you. I, I know it is something you have dreamed of for a long time. I didn't want to interfere with that dream. I only want you to be happy Naru-Kun. And if you could be happy with Sakura, I was just going to step aside. I, I know you've loved her for a long time and I didn't want to interfere with that." Hinata explained the trepidation evident in her voice.

Naruto finally released his embrace and looked into Hinata's tear filled eyes before he kissed her forehead and rested her head on his chest before saying.

"My hime, you don't understand, you've already interfered. You interfered the day I fell in love with you."

Hinata uttered a small sob of happiness when she heard this, and tearfully mumbled, "I love you too," as she buried her face into his chest, before Naruto continued.

"I won't lie to you Hinata. Six months ago, I would have done anything to hear those words from Sakura. But that was before I knew what love really is. I have you to thank for that my hime. I know I'm not the smartest guy in the world, but I'm not going to leave the one person who taught me what true love is over a fantasy that I held onto for much too long.”

Hinata looked up into Naruto’s cerulean eyes and saw nothing but love as he gazed back at her before she asked.

But, but Naru-Kun, are you saying you don't love Sakura anymore?"

"I don't know what I feel for Sakura anymore Hinata-Chan. It seems to change on me minute by minute and I just can’t get a grip of how I feel towards her. I suppose a small part of me will always love her, but it's nothing compared to the love I feel for you." Naruto replied as leaned down and gave Hinata a loving kiss.

“Thank you Naru-Kun, you have no idea how much I needed to hear that.” Hinata softly says.

“Well don’t just hear it my hime, believe it. Because I meant every word I said.” Naruto said as he pulled Hinata a little closer to him and she rested her head on his shoulder.

“I do believe it Naru-Kun, now and forever.” Hinata replied as she closed her eyes and let herself get lost in feel of his arms around her.

Eventually, the stress of the day caught up with the young couple, as they fell asleep in each other’s arms. Each one dreaming of the person they were holding, and that tomorrow would be a better day.

As the sun began to set on the Leaf village, Kabuto swatted away a fly buzzing around his face and grumbled to himself in annoyance. For nearly two days, he and his squad of Otokagure nin's had been unable to get any closer to the Leaf village due to a substantial increase of Konoha security patrols around the village. Because of this, they had been forced to hide themselves away in an obscure valley a few miles outside of Konoha, less they are discovered. As Kabuto waited inside of his tent for the return of a scouting mission he had ordered in the hopes that the Leaf village's security had lessened, he pondered how pointless this mission truly was and thought to himself with disgust.

'All of this so Orochimaru-Sama can give his new bedtime playmate a present. What a waste of time and resources and all for that spoiled brat of an Uchiha.'

Kabuto's musings were interrupted when he heard a request from the officer he had assigned to the scouting mission ask for permission to enter and give his report. The news he brought did nothing to improve his mood, but rather the opposite, as he was now frustrated with his current situation more than ever. The officer reported that Konoha had not reduced their security precautions, and even worst was the fact that the legendary Sannin Jiraiya had nearly discovered his scouting patrol. Apparently he was patrolling the outer boundaries of the Leaf village as well along with the Toad boss summons Gamabunta.

Kabuto cursed his luck, it would be difficult enough going up against the Kyuubi container if they had to. But to now learn that Jiraiya was also present within the village, Kabuto realized his chances of successfully completing this mission had just decreased dramatically. Kabuto surmised that he could probably go toe to toe with either Naruto or Jiraiya if he had to, but there was no way he could fight the both of them and live to tell about it. Kabuto decided right then and there that this foolish mission was not worth his life, angrily sat down and began to write furiously. What he was writing was a request to Orochimaru that this mission to capture the Hyuga girl be aborted due to the increase of Konoha's security, and the presence of the Sannin Jiraiya actively patrolling the Fire country's lands. Because of these factors, the odds of successfully completing this mission had diminished substantially. Kabuto sealed the document and ordered that it be delivered to Orochimaru-Sama and that he would for the Snake Sannin answer before preceding any further. As Kabuto watched the messenger race off to Otokagure, all he could do was hope that his master would see the futility of this mission and order him back home. Surely Orochimaru would see the wisdom of this, if he didn't, than Sasuke Uchiha was proving to be far more troublesome than he was worth. Kabuto thought with irritation, as he lay down on his cot for some much-needed sleep.



Authors Note: Wow, another chapter done. Thanks for all the great reviews both from the old and new fans of the story. As for the next chapter, I’ll try to get it out as quickly as I can. Just keep my alert active and I’ll do my best. To everyone, take it easy!

Kingkakashi








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