Naruto Fan Fiction ❯ Naruto vs. Sasuke The Aftermath ❯ A Enemy Revealed and Lives in Peril ( Chapter 25 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
Chapter 25 Summary: The day has finally come for Sakura to tell the tale of what happened to her that fateful night when she reunited with Sasuke. Unfortunately, some truths will be revealed that will have a dire affect upon many people around her. And as this is happening, Hinata and Kurenai have left the village for the day, neither one realizing they may never see Konoha or their loved ones ever again.
Naruto vs. Sasuke: The Aftermath
Chapter 25: “A Enemy Revealed and Lives in Peril”
It was a bright sunny morning as Kurenai and Hinata walked towards the northeast gate of Konoha to leave the village for the day. Kurenai inwardly chuckled to herself as she looked at the wide smile planted upon Hinata's face, while they walked. The two of them were heading to a secret grotto Kurenai had discovered a few years ago while on a mission. It was a beautiful spot with a small clearing flanked by a small stream, which fed into a natural hot spring. The clearing itself was speckled with a variety of lovely flowers and was surrounded by a deep thick forest. All in all it was the perfect private training spot that she and Hinata used from time to time. As they exited the gate, she heard Hinata humming to herself and Kurenai commented.
“You seem in better spirits today Hinata.”
“Hai Kurenai-Sensei I am. We haven't gone to the secret grotto in a long time for training and I'm looking forward to seeing it again.”
“Well it's good to see you smile again.”
“I've just been missing Naru-kun is all Kurenai-Sensei.”
“I know you have Hinata, but he'll be back in a few days and you can't let Naruto being gone affect your training. That's why I thought going to the grotto would help break you out of your doldrums and you can focus more closely on your training.”
“Hai, Kurenai-Sensei I shall. I think it is a wonderful idea to go there and I think today is going to be a great day!”
“I think so too Hinata.”
However, both Kurenai and Hinata were so engrossed in their conversation; they failed to notice a faint shadow 200 yards behind them paralleling their movements through the forest.
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Tsunade looked up from her desk to view all the people in her office and she sighed to herself. Shizune was busy trying to organize some files at a nearby cabinet. Kakashi was seated in a chair with his face buried into another Icha Icha novel. Periodically, Kakashi would give a compliment of a particular passage he had just read to the author of that perverted smut and the final individual within the office, her friend and fellow Sannin, Jiraiya the Toad Sage. As Tsunade glanced over to the Toad Sannin leaning against a far wall with his arms folded their eyes met briefly for a moment, before Jiraiya averted his gaze from her to look to the side.
Things had been difficult between her and Jiraiya since she had once again refused his proposal of marriage and their subsequent conversation afterwards. It hurt Tsunade deeply that he could no longer even look at her or when he did all she could see was the pain etched in his face caused by her. Tsunade wished things could go back to the way they were between the two, but her last rejection of Jiraiya had finally broken his resolve towards the Slug Sannin. Jiraiya, a man whose determination was only surpassed by their grandson Naruto had finally reached his limit and given up, and she had no one to blame but herself. This is what she wanted she kept trying to tell herself, to have Jiraiya stop pursuing her like he had for the last 35 years. And now she had her wish, but what Tsunade couldn't explain is why it hurt so much now that he had? Tsunade was startled when she heard the cold monotone voice of her thoughts ask.
“Why have you called us here Hokage-sama?”
“Ahem, yes, Jiraiya please have a seat. Shizune stop what you're doing and take one as well, and Kakashi put away that damn book!”
As Shizune and Jiraiya seated themselves, Kakashi begrudgingly slipped his novel into his vest and waited for Tsunade to speak once again.
“I've called you all here, because shortly the four of us are going over to the hospital to question Sakura about what happened to her and what she might know about Sasuke and possibly Orochimaru.”
“It's about damn time.” Jiraiya muttered in disgust.
This earned the Toad Sannin a swift glare from Tsunade. Another cause of the deterioration of Tsunade and Jiraiya's relationship had centered around the aforementioned Sakura, or more specifically of Sakura's past relationship and treatment of Naruto. Their relationship was eerily similar to what the two Sannin's relationship had been like with one another at that same age so long ago. Jiraiya disliked the girl for all the heartache and pain she had given Naruto, as it served as a reminder of what he had gone through with Tsunade. And Jiraiya did not want his grandson wasting his life like he did with Tsunade. Chasing after a girl he loved, but one who would never love him back. As for Tsunade, she in many ways saw herself in Sakura at times, and felt a kinship to the young kunoichi. Tsunade vowed to try and help the girl not make the same mistakes she had made within her own life.
“Your disagreement with my scheduling of Sakura's interview is duly noted Jiraiya. But as Hokage, that's my call not yours! Do you understand?”
“Hmmph.” Jiraiya snorted before adding.
“I understand Hokage-sama, but what I don't understand is why I'm here?”
“You're here Jiraiya because I need your help. We already know our ex-teammate Orochimaru is up to something, and you know more about how that snake bastard thinks, better than anyone else alive. You may be able to provide some insight into what his plans might be from any information we get from Sakura. The same reasoning with you being here Kakashi, you spent more time with the Uchiha brat on Team 7 than with anyone else, you to could provide some insight as well about that little bastard!”
“Hai Hokage-sama.” Kakashi solemnly replied, while reflecting upon how much time he had foolishly wasted on Sasuke when he could have been helping Naruto and Sakura.
“Shizune, you're here because I need you to take the most accurate notes you can of this interview. Your notes will probably be used at Sakura's trial in the coming weeks.”
“Hai Hokage-sama.”
“This is a mistake Tsunade! You are not a trained interrogator and are too close to the situation to be objective when it comes to questioning the Haruno girl. You should let Ibiki handle her interrogation.” Jiraiya angrily states with conviction.
“I don't want Sakura interrogated! I want to question the girl about what she might know and I want to do it in as peaceful a setting as I can for her. I don't want Sakura lapsing into a mental breakdown, which is precariously close to happening considering what she has been through. And for the last time, as Hokage that's my call to make not yours!”
“Hmmph!” Jiraiya snorted once more in contempt at his fellow Sannin's reasoning before looking away.
Tsunade felt a sharp stab of pain in her chest when Jiraiya refused to look at her once more. However, she didn't have the time to reflect on it. Clearing her throat and turning her attention back to the others she announced.
“Now there is one more thing I need to mention. I don't know if you Kakashi or you Jiraiya have heard about this? But yesterday that bitch Ishi Haruno and her spineless husband Taro filed papers with me to have Sakura become a ward of the village.”
“You, you mean they abandoned her, but why?” A clearly stunned Kakashi stammered.
“For all intensive purposes Kakashi you're correct they abandoned her. As to the why, rather than get into the specifics of what Ishi said, as it pisses me off every time I think about it. Let's just say Ishi was displeased with how the Haruno name was being tarnished by what Sasuke did to Sakura.”
“That heartless evil fucking bitch!” Kakashi growled through clenched teeth.
“That sums up Ishi Haruno perfectly. What I can't understand is where she came up with the idea of disowning Sakura? She actually had the audacity to come into my office and claim the Haruno's as a clan and use the ancient banishment act that all the noble clans still use. But the banishment act is an ancient law that only applies to them and is kept very secretive by all of the clans. How the hell did Ishi know about it?
“Cough, cough,” came from Shizune, as Tsunade looked over to her assistant and while cocking an eyebrow asked.
“Something you'd like to share with the rest of us Shizune?”
“Well umm, it's only a rumor, something I heard; perhaps I shouldn't say anything?”
“Out with it Shizune, I know you're tuned into gossip grapevine better than anyone else I know.”
“Well Lady Tsunade, there's a rumor about Ishi spending a great deal of time around the Hyuga compound lately in the company of Hiashi Hyuga. But I don't know the reason as to why?”
“He's fucking her, has been since Kakashi kicked the shit out of Taro.” Jiraiya stated with aplomb.
“Shit, knowing Ishi she probably had her feet pointing to the ceiling within five minutes the first time she entered the compound.” Tsunade remarked, causing Shizune to blush at her mentor's words before saying.
“Well, it would explain how she came up with the idea of using the banishment act Hokage-sama.”
“You're right Shizune it does. Damn it, I have enough problems dealing with that Hyuga bastard and Haruno whore separately, I don't want to even think what kind of problems they're going to cause for me in the future now that they're together.” Tsunade cursed in disgust.
“I wouldn't worry about it too much Lady Tsunade. Hiashi has an image to uphold to the Council and the village and Ishi is still a married woman. I'm sure he's going to keep her in the shadows for quite awhile before they make their relationship public. At least until Ishi divorces Taro, which I assume is coming?” Kakashi commented.
“Ha! You were too young to remember Hiashi back in the day Kakashi but I do. I never saw anyone who treated women more poorly or with such contempt than Hiashi Hyuga. To him Ishi is nothing more than a body to keep him warm on a cold night. As soon as he tires of her, she'll be thrown to the curb, it's what he does. Because if Ishi Haruno ever thinks that Hiashi will deem her worthy of becoming his next wife, she's even more deluded than her daughter was in thinking Sasuke would ever give a damn about her.” Jiraiya derisively spat.
“Enough talk about Ishi and Hiashi!” Tsunade forcefully shouted, clearly irritated with Jiraiya's final remark with regards to Sakura. Clearing her throat and taking a moment to collect her thoughts, Tsunade then stated.
“My point in bringing up Sakura's abandonment by her parents is that I don't want the girl to learn about it right now. Nor do I want the rumor with regards to her mother to be learned by Sakura either. The girl has gone through some serious psychological trauma recently and there's only so much she can take! Are you all clear on this?”
“Hai Hokage-sama.” Kakashi and Shizune said in unison, while Jiraiya merely nodded his head.
“All right, let's all go and see what Sakura has to say.” Tsunade ordered, as everyone stood and made their way out of the office and towards the hospital.
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As Sakura pushed the luncheon tray away from her, she stared out her hospital window onto the village. It appeared to have taken a beating from the storm that had blown through the day before. Sakura shifted slightly in her bed and winced in pain while doing so. Taking a moment to survey her injuries, Sakura could only shake her head in sadness at how grotesque she thought she must look. Sakura's severely broken left arm was encased in a cast, and practically the entire left side of her body from head to toe was wrapped bandages. Her face was the worst off as the only visible features showing from the bandages was her right eye, cheek and lips. Lady Tsunade had assured Sakura that they would commence with her facial reconstruction surgery as soon as possible. And soon Sakura would be back to looking as she did before. However, as she gazed upon the destruction Sasuke had done her, that assurance seemed hard to believe. Sakura thoughts were interrupted when she heard the door of her hospital room swing open. Looking up she saw a smiling Tsunade enter the room followed by Shizune, Kakashi, and Master Jiraiya. Sakura smiled a bit, as she welcomed the company for she hadn't had any visitors since she awoke a few days ago. She watched as Tsunade pulled up a chair next to her and asked with sincerity.
“How are you feeling today Sakura?”
“I'm much better today Hokage-sama, thank you for asking.”
“Enough with the Hokage-sama Sakura, just call me Lady Tsunade, ok?”
“Hai Hokage-sa ……. Lady Tsunade.”
“Well judging by your chart Sakura, your vitals are getting stronger everyday, looks like we'll be scheduling your surgery pretty soon. I'm sure you're tired of all these bandages?”
“Hai Lady Tsunade, I am.”
“Well don't you worry; soon you'll be able to show your pretty face once again to all your friends.”
Sakura's expression became downcast, as she looked down and softly said.
“I don't have any friends Lady Tsunade.”
Tsunade placed her hand on top of Sakura's and gave the girl a reassuring squeeze before saying.
“Of course you have friends Sakura.”
“I, I don't think so, at least not anymore, not after what I've done. You all are the first visitors I've had since I awoke. Even Naruto hasn't come by, although I have no right to expect him to, not after all the pain I've caused him. I don't deserve his friendship, ……perhaps I never did.” Sakura replied, the sadness in her voice echoing throughout the hospital room.
Tsunade could tell the girl was on the verge of breaking down into a depression and stated.
“Sakura that's not true, your injuries were so severe that I didn't allow you any visitors. So your friends couldn't come and see you. But one of them did try, your knuckleheaded teammate Naruto did come to visit you several days ago. He visited Kakashi first then came by to try and see you, isn't that right Kakashi.”
“Hai Lady Tsunade, he did.” Kakashi hesitantly answered.
Sakura lifted her head and for the first time gave a genuine smile, as she stammered with hope.
“Nar, Naruto really came to see me. But why hasn't he been back?”
“Sakura, I had to send Naruto out on a mission, that's why he hasn't been back. But I'm sure when he gets back, he's going to come by and see you.”
Jiraiya and Kakashi shot each other bewildering looks at what Tsunade was telling Sakura or more to the point lying to the injured girl.
“I hope it's soon! I don't know why, but it feels like I woke up from a never-ending nightmare and for some reason I feel as though Naruto saved me from it?”
Tsunade harkened back to the amazing story she had been told by Inoichi Yamanaka of the freeing of Sakura's mind. In a way, Naruto did save Sakura, but it would be impossible to explain to the girl everything that had transpired. Eventually, Tsunade decided that if it helps Sakura to recover mentally in believing that Naruto helped to save her, the details weren't necessary for Sakura to know and the blonde Hokage stated.
“Well Sakura there were a lot of people who saved you. Kakashi for one, getting you back to the village so quickly, Shizune for healing your injuries, and Inoichi Yamanaka with some help from Naruto to bring you out of your coma.”
Sakura looked over to Kakashi and Shizune and bowed her head before saying.
“Thank you Kakashi-Sen ….I mean Kakashi-sama, Shizune-sama for saving me, I'm most grateful. Kakashi-sama, I understand you were badly hurt in rescuing me and bringing me back. I'm very sorry for that.”
“It was nothing Sakura; don't give anymore thought to it. I'm just glad that you're going to be ok.”
“Th, thank you Kakashi-sama.”
Jiraiya cleared his throat to silently announce that they needed to get started with why they all were there in the first place. Tsunade exhaled a deep sigh, as she knew her fellow Sannin was correct, and turned back to Sakura before saying.
“Sakura, there's another reason why were all here today. You committed a serious act of treason against the village when you defected. Sakura, we need to know why you did it, and we need to know what information you might have learned from Sasuke while you were with him? I know this is going to be hard for you do, but we need you to remember as much as you can and answer any questions we have. Do you understand?”
“I, I understand Lady Tsunade.”
“Alright Sakura, let's begin with why you deserted the Village Hidden in the Leaves.”
Sakura took a deep breath, as she now was about to tell the tale of the most foolish thing she had ever done in her short life. Exhaling, she looked up to Lady Tsunade and with nervousness began to tell her story.
“I received a message from Sasuke saying that he had escaped from Orochimaru and that he wanted to return to the village to be with me. The message also said he was afraid of Orochimaru recapturing him or of what might happen to him when he returned and he asked me to come get him.”
“Sakura, do you still have this message from Sasuke? It could help in your defense at your trial.” Kakashi asked.
Sakura shook her head sadly before saying.
“No, Sasuke told me to destroy the message before I left.”
“Smart little bastard!” Jiraiya muttered.
“Why did Sasuke only contact you Sakura, and why didn't you tell anyone that he had contacted you? Tsunade asked.
Sakura sniffled a little bit; as she thought about her utter stupidity in believing what she is about tell everyone had been the truth from Sasuke.
“He, he told me he cared about me and that I was the only one he could trust, and to not tell anyone about this. He was fearful of the Anbu and would only come back to the village with me or not at all.”
Tsunade looked to Sakura and could see answering these questions was already starting to put a strain on the young kunoichi's mind, but she also knew they must press on and asked.
“Sakura, in the message you left for me, you said if Sasuke wouldn't come back with you, you would not be returning either. Did you mean that?
An audible sob came from Sakura as tears began welling in her eyes, before she nodded her head and in a choked voice replied.
“I, I did Lady Tsunade. You, you have to understand, I really believed I was in love with Sasuke and that deep down he loved me too. If Sasuke decided he didn't want to go back after I got there, and if I couldn't change his mind, then I was going to go with him no matter where he went. But, but, you have to believe me Lady Tsunade, my first choice was to just bring Sasuke home.”
Tsunade reached to squeeze Sakura's hand in comfort before saying.
“I believe you Sakura. I don't know if it will help at your trial? But I believe that you wanted to return Sasuke back to the village. Well, we know the circumstances of why you left the village, but now we need to know what happened when you found Sasuke?”
Sakura began to shake a little bit at the memory of that horrific night she was now going to have to talk about. Tsunade sat down onto the bed and cupped Sakura's hands into her own. Sakura nodded to her Hokage and began speaking once more, but with a renewed strength, as her next sentence was filled with anger and spite.
“When, when I arrived at the location where Sasuke was at, I learned everything Sasuke had told me was a lie!”
“What do you mean Sakura?”
“I mean Lady Tsunade everything he said to me was a lie. He never wanted to come back to the village to be with me! He's perfectly happy with being Orochimaru's apprentice among other things. All Sasuke cares about now is gaining power from the Snake Sannin to and I quote.”
“He can give me the power I need to kill Itachi and anyone else who gets in my way.”
“Then why did he want you Sakura” Kakashi asked.
Sakura looked down again in before saying in a soft voice.
“I was to be used as bait to lure Naruto to Sasuke.”
“What does Sasuke want with Naruto Sakura?” Tsunade asked, her voice laden with fear.
“Sasuke thought he had killed Naruto at the Valley of the End, but he wasn't sure because his Mangekyou Sharingan hadn't activated yet. I was to be used as bait to lure Naruto out so Sasuke could finally kill him and gain his precious Sharingan.” Sakura spat with disgust.
“What is this Mangekyou Sharingan Kakashi?”
“The Mangekyou Sharingan is a legendary doujutsu and is considered the ultimate form of the Sharingan Hokage-sama. The person who gains this level of Sharingan will have varying but incredible levels of strength and power.”
“But why does Sasuke want to kill Naruto for it?”
“It's not that Sasuke wants to kill Naruto for it Hokage-sama. He feels he has to kill Naruto to obtain it. You see the easiest way to gain the Mangekyou, is to kill your closest friend. And although it was but for a short time, Sasuke and Naruto were the best of friends once.” Kakashi solemnly replied.
“You're wrong Kakashi-sama! Sasuke does want to kill Naruto, getting the Mangekyou is simply a bonus. Sasuke is insane about Naruto. When I told him that Naruto was alive and that Master Jiraiya had accepted him fulltime as a student, Sasuke became enraged. He activated his curse mark and went on this wild tantrum about how Naruto is nothing compared him because he's an elite Uchiha. Sasuke was ranting and raving about how come he couldn't kill Naruto, but swore upon the Uchiha name that one day he will. It's no longer about gaining the Mangekyou Kakashi-sama. Sasuke wants to hurt and kill Naruto for no other reason than he's jealous of him.” Sakura exclaimed with certainty for everyone to hear.
The room grew deathly quiet as everyone absorbed what Sakura had just said. After a few minutes of contemplation, Kakashi spoke once more and asked.
“Did Sasuke say anything else Sakura with regards to Naruto?”
“No, not directly about Naruto, but he did want me to relay a message to you Kakashi-sama. He told me to tell you thanks for teaching him the Chidori technique; he said it's the perfect method for getting rid of obnoxious blonde dobes.”
Everyone in the room could hear the leather stretch on Kakashi's fingerless gloves, as he balled his hands into fists and his killing intent began to rise in the room. After a moment, Kakashi regained control and it began to subside. Tsunade then turned back to Sakura and said.
“So, Sasuke's entire plan was to lure Naruto out using you, so he could kill him and gain this Mangekyou Sharingan. What happened next Sakura?”
Sakura breathing began to rise at an incredible rate almost to the point of hyperventilating, as she tried to answer in a quaking stammering voice.
“It, it was then that Sas, Sasuke decided I needed to look different for Naruto when he arrived. He, he then came towards me and, and he, he…..” Sakura suddenly slumped forward, and her hand flew to the side of her head as she remembered.
"Oh Kami no, please stop Sasuke, don't do this, stop! Please stop Sasuke, stop!”
Sakura had begun screaming the last few words as tears erupted from her eyes before Tsunade grabbed the girl in a hug and attempted to assure her that she was safe, while Sakura cried into her chest. After several minutes, Sakura finally began to calm down and Tsunade released her embrace and laid the now unconscious girl back down onto her bed. Slowly rising, Tsunade stood up and stated.
“I think we've done enough today. We learned what we needed to, let's let Sakura get some rest.”
“What, are you serious Tsunade?” Jiraiya growled in disbelief.
“Of course I'm serious Jiraiya, Sakura needs some rest, what's wrong with you?”
“There is nothing wrong with me; it's what's wrong with you! I knew this was a mistake you handling the questioning!” Jiraiya angrily shouted before marching over to the foot of Sakura's bed and shaking the girl awake before asking.
“Sakura, was Sasuke alone when you met up with him?”
Sakura shrank back slightly afraid of Toad Sannin, as his tone of voice was very menacing and demanding before she answered.
“N, no Master Jiriaya, Ka, Kabuto and several Otogakure Shinobi were there as well.”
Jiriaya shot a disgusted glance at Tsunade before continuing.
“How many Otogakure Shinobi were present Sakura? I need you to be as accurate as possible!
“I, I'm not sure? May, maybe 15 to 20 I think? More when Orochimaru showed up.”
Everyone in the room audibly gasped at hearing Orochimaru's name. Tsunade sat down in a chair in shock upon hearing the news that her former teammate and Konoha's greatest threat had also been present. She looked over at her fellow Sannin grilling Sakura and now realized Jiraiya had been right. She had been deficient in her questioning of Sakura, more worried about the girl's state of mind than about any information they might learn. Jiraiya's voice rang out once more interrupting Tsunade's thoughts.
“Why was Orochimaru there Sakura?”
“I, I don't know? I think he came to see Sasuke kill Naruto and gain his new Sharingan, before they returned to Otogakure. I, I do remember he seemed a little annoyed at Sasuke that Naruto hadn't arrived yet, before the two of them left together to return home.”
“So Orochimaru and Sasuke left together to go back to Otogakure, is that correct Sakura?”
“Y, yes Master Jiraiya, Sasuke wanted to wait a little bit longer for Naruto to arrive. But when I told Sasuke Naruto would never be coming, and that he had failed, they left.”
“That doesn't make sense Sakura? Those were Otogakure nin's we rescued you from, why were they there?” Kakashi interrupted in confusion, before Jiraiya turned back to Sakura and angrily asked.
“What exactly did you say to Sasuke when you told him that Naruto wouldn't be coming?”
“I, I told Sasuke that Naruto isn't going to come because he hates me now thanks to him. I, I, told him Naruto has Hinata now, and, and isn't going to waste his time or his life rescuing me anymore.”
“YOU STUPID LITTLE FOOL!” Jiraiya roared, as he advanced upon the frightened kunoichi, before a hand gripped the front of his cloak and slammed the Toad Sannin back first against a wall. Never releasing her grip, Tsunade shouted in righteous fury.
“What the hell is wrong with you Jiraiya? You're scaring the girl to death!”
Jiraiya's patience in this whole affair that morning had reached his limit. Slapping Tsunade's hand off of his cloak, he glared fiercely at Tsunade and pointed at Sakura before saying with rage.
“I don't give a damn if she's scared to death or not! You don't have any idea what's she's done do you Tsunade?”
“Explain it to me Jiraiya!”
“Apparently I must, that scared to death kunoichi over there just painted a big old bulls-eye onto Hinata for Sasuke to go after! You heard her yourself earlier, Sasuke wants nothing more than to hurt and kill Naruto in anyway possible! What better way for him to hurt Naruto than to go after Hinata!”
“I, I hadn't thought of that.” Tsunade replied as her face took on an appearance of fear.
“OH KAMI!” Sakura screamed, before adding in a desperate scared tone of voice, as tears ran down her face.
“Master Jiriaya is right Lady Tsunade! I remember now, Sasuke decided that he wanted Hinata to breed with and asked Orochimaru to get her for him. Orochimaru agreed and assigned Kabuto and several Otogakure Shinobi to come to the village and kidnap Hinata. I'm, I'm not sure how many men they took? They left a few men behind in case Naruto did show up for me, while the rest went off to go and get Hinata! I'm sorry, I'm so, so sorry! Oh Kami please forgive me!”
“So you mean to say there is a force of at least 20 Otogakure Shinobi led by Kabuto within the Fire nation and they're targeting Hinata Hyuga! And you're just now remembering it!” Jiraiya spat out in outrage.
Sakura couldn't even look up and merely nodded her head, as she continued to weep.
“We have to find and make sure Hinata is safe and secure, while we send out the Anbu to hunt down these Oto Shinobi. Do you know where Team #8 is assigned today Hokage-sama?” Kakashi asked with urgency.
Tsunade thought about Kakashi's question before her eyes grew wide with terror and she stammered.
“They, they have the day off today. Kurenai requested a day pass for her and Hinata to leave the village and go to a private training spot they use outside the village. They will be gone all day!”
“Oh no!” Shizune who had been silent suddenly cried out.
“Don't panic, they should be alright. I can't imagine this training spot is too far away from the village. And we still have our Anbu doing increased and extended security patrols around the village from when Sakura first deserted. We just need to inform the patrols to find Hinata and Kurenai and escort them back. Everything will be ok.” Jiraiya stated, as he attempted to reassure everyone in the room before asking.
“Where is this training spot Tsunade?”
Tsunade's hands suddenly shot to her mouth and she slumped down into the chair once more before answering with trepidation.
“Jiraiya, I, I recalled and reduced the security alert and patrols when Kakashi brought Sakura back, and I don't know where Kurenai's training spot is? She never told me.”
“Are you telling me Tsunade that with everything that has been going on, you lowered our security just because Sakura had been brought back? Don't you think it might have been prudent to find out first if she had any information with regards to the safety of this village and its citizens before you made that decision! Jiraiya stated in utter disbelief.
“So, Kurenai and Hinata are out there by themselves with an armed contingent of Oto Shinobi hunting them!” Kakashi shouted with alarm.
“Y, yes.” Tsunade softly replied, as her eyes began to well with tears.
“I'm going after them!” Kakashi declared without hesitation, before leaping out the hospital window, ignoring the shouts and pleas of Jiraiya and Tsunade to stop.
“Damn thick-headed fool! Doesn't anybody think around here anymore?” Jiraiya groused in annoyance.
“What, what are we going to do?”
“Well the first thing we need to do Tsunade is find Naruto, he might know from Hinata where this elusive training area is? Plus this might all be a ruse on Orochimaru's part and Naruto may still be the target for him and Sasuke. Where is our gran …….where is Naruto?”
“Oh Kami, I sent Naruto on diplomatic mission to the Wave country with Iruka and Anko a few days ago!” Tsunade exclaimed in horror.
“Damn it Tsunade! Reduced security, day passes to leave the village, assigning missions using Shinobi who may very well be the target of that snake bastard and his new apprentice! All these things could have been avoided had we known before today the information we learned from Sakura!”
“I, I didn't know?”
“Exactly Tsunade, you didn't know but you should have! I warned you that girl could have vital information about what Orochimaru and Sasuke might be planning for the village and everyone in it including Naruto, but you wouldn't listen to me! You were more worried about Sakura than about any information she might have which could possibly save lives in the future. Well congratulations Tsunade, this village may pay a high price because of you not wanting to interrogate this girl sooner because she was suffering! Now all we can hope for is that your coddling of Sakura hasn't cost anyone their life!”
Tsunade sat quietly with her head hung low and offered up no defense to Jiraiya's verbal beating of her recent actions and decisions as Hokage. Everything the Toad Sannin had said was true and as Tsunade reflected upon his words, she was aghast at the decisions she had made recently. Tsunade had let her personal concern for Sakura override her judgment in other matters concerning the village. As Hokage, the needs of the village outweigh the needs of the few or of any one individual. What she had done was inexcusable, and this verbal admonishment from Jiraiya she deserved ten times over as far as Tsunade was concerned. The sound of her name broke Tsunade out of her self-loathing.
“Tsunade are listening to me?”
Tsunade looked up towards Jiraiya and with a tear rolling down her cheek softy replied before lowering her head once more.
“I've heard every word you've said, and you're right about everything.”
Jiraiya's heart tightened when saw the sad and pain filled face of the woman he loved, knowing he was the cause of it. The tone of her voice once so full of life and energy now rang out with despair and resignation. Tsunade was the strongest woman he had ever known, not just physically, but also her spirit. It was one of the many things he truly loved about her. Jiraiya knew he had hurt her deeply with what he had said. And though he did regret hurting the woman he loved, Tsunade needed to hear what he had to say. Jiraiya could only hope that he hadn't pushed Tsunade to the edge for they were going to need her strength and spirit in the coming days he feared. Kneeling down, he took her hands into his and looking up into her tear stained face said.
“Tsunade-chan, I know you're hurting right now because of what I've said and of what has happened and for my part, I'm sorry. I don't regret what I said because you needed to hear it. But I am sorry for how I delivered my message. It wasn't my intent to hurt you, I just let my anger over many things between us get the better of me. But right now neither one of us can dwell on that. We need to regroup and deal with the situation before us immediately. I need you to cast aside any doubts you may have about yourself and resume control. It won't be easy, but I'll be here to help if you'll let me? Can you do that Tsunade-chan?”
“You'll help me Jiraiya-kun.”
“Hai Hokage-sama I will.”
Tsunade gave a small smile and wiping her eyes rose from her chair. Taking a moment to collect her self, she hesitantly announced.
“As I see it, the two most important things we need to do is to secure the safety of both Hinata and Naruto as quickly as possible. I'll send Gai and his team to the Wave country immediately. Meanwhile, I'll order the Anbu to begin a search and rescue operation for Hinata and Kurenai right away. Do you have any suggestions Jiraiya?”
“Hai Tsunade I do, keep Gai and his team here, I'll go after Naruto. I can have him back here within the village in less than 24 hours, much faster than they could do it in.”
“But, but how Jiraiya? The Wave country is over three day's journey from here. How can you traverse that much distance in such a short amount of time? And why do you need to go?”
“I'll have bunta take me to the Wave country Tsunade. And the reason I need to go is the same reason I feel you should head out with the Anbu in search of Hinata and Kurenai. There's the possibility that our ex-teammate and his new teme sidekick are lurking about out there. Or they could be in the vicinity of the Wave country? Either way, we need to have a Sannin at the forefront of both operations in case one of us runs into them. We already know for certain his current apprentice is slithering about, and Kabuto is on par with Kakashi in strength and skill.”
Tsunade nodded her head in acceptance and agreement of what Jiraiya had suggested. As she watched him make his way to the window, she rushed over and took his hand in hers and squeezed it before softly saying.
“Bring Naru-kun back safely, and please be careful out there.”
“I'll bring him back in one piece, don't you worry Tsunade-chan. You be careful as well and pray that Hinata is alright, because if she isn't we may all be doomed.”
“What do you mean by that Jiraiya?”
“What I mean Tsunade is the seal on Naruto keeping Kyuubi at bay is weakened when the boy goes through emotional turmoil. And I can't think of a worse emotional trauma for Naruto, than if the girl he loves has been hurt or killed. It just may be the trigger that allows Kyuubi to escape his confinement. And if that happens, Kami help us all.”
Jiraiya then leapt out the window while biting his thumb. As he landed, Jiraiya slammed his palm to the ground while releasing a massive amount of chakra and shouted.
“Kuchiyose no Jutsu!” (Summoning Technique)
A brilliant flash of light and a massive amount of smoke appeared on the ground where Jiraiya struck. After a moment, the smoke began to dissipate to show Jiraiya standing upon the head of a gigantic crimson colored toad with a battle scar over its left eye and smoking a pipe as it towered over the hospital, Gamabunta, the Boss King of Toads had arrived. Gamabunta looked about in confusion, before his eyes then traveled upward to spy the figure standing upon his head. Growling in annoyance, as his webbed hand glided lazily upon the hilt of the Wakizashi strapped to his side, Gamabunta's deep resonating voice suddenly erupted and demanded an explanation.
“JIRAIYA! You perverted geezer! I see no enemies for me to crush! Why have you summoned the great Gamabunta-sama?”
“Bunta I need you to get me to the Wave Country as soon as possible!”
“WHAT! You summon me to be a taxi service! Give me one good reason why I shouldn't squash you like a bug for this insult Jiraiya?”
“Please almighty Gamabunta-sama, Jiraiya meant no disrespect! He needs to get to Wave country to possibly save Naruto from our former teammate and Sannin Orochimaru!” Tsunade shouted as she leaned out the window looking up towards Gamabunta.
“Who speaks to Gamabunta-sama with such respect? Ah, Tsunade the Slug Queen, I see you're still looking as lovely as ever! How is Katsuyu doing? Now what is this about the Snake Sannin after my number one henchman?”
“Thank you for the compliment Gamabunta-sama, you honor me! Katsuyu is doing well, I'll tell her you said hello! Orochimaru had taken on a new apprentice and is teaching him all of his dark arts! It is this apprentice with the Snake Sannin's blessing who wishes to kill your henchman Naruto! We need for Jiraiya-sama to get to and protect Naruto from them, can you please help us?”
“Of course I shall help you! That pale-faced yellow-eyed vermin and his new protégé dare to go after my top henchman who is under my protection! I shall make them pay if I ever run into them!”
“Thank you o'great and mighty Gamabunta-sama!” Tsunade said with reverence, as she gave a small bow while leaning out the window a little more.
“Careful Tsunade, you've always been a little top heavy and I don't want you falling out of the window and hurting yourself.” Jiraiya commented with a leer, as he gazed down at the blonde Hokage.
Tsunade quickly leaned back and saw the perverted leer on Jiraiya's face before realizing that from his vantage point he could see down her blouse unobstructed. A facial tick quickly developed on her face and Tsunade shook her fist in anger at the Toad Sannin before yelling.”
“You lecherous old fool! I would think after all those beatings I've given you for peeping on me you would have learned your lesson!”
As Gamabunta began gathering chakra to his legs Jiraiya let loose a hearty laugh at Tsunade's statement, before declaring with zeal.
“One thing I've never told you about those beatings my hime. They were worth itttttttttttttttttt! Jiraiya's voice echoed as Gamabunta shot into the air carrying them over the eastern wall of the village in one incredible leap, leaving in their wake one Hokage blushing with embarrassment after hearing Jiraiya's comical declaration to her. But also a blushing Hokage, who now sported a wry smile upon her face as well.
Quickly dismissing her smile to hide her amusement from others, Tsunade turned around and ordered Shizune to prepare a contingent of Anbu to accompany them out into the field to search for Hinata and Kurenai. Tsunade also wanted a full medic nin team put together for this mission to go along with them as well. As Tsunade watched Shizune nod and run out the door, she turned her attention to Sakura. The sight she beheld was of Sakura clutching her arms around her body with her head sunk low and quietly weeping. Tsunade walked over and sat on the bed while pulling Sakura into a hug and attempted to comfort and reassure the distraught young kunoichi by saying.
“Shhh, Sakura everything will be alright. This isn't your fault what has happened. If anyone is to blame it's me. Nothing bad has happened, we'll get Naruto and the others back safely, don't you worry about it.”
“That, that's not true Lady Tsunade, it is my fault. If, if I hadn't said anything to Sasuke about Naruto being with Hinata, they wouldn't be in danger right now! I don't want anything to happen to Hinata or anyone else because I was stupid. Nar, Naruto would hate me if something happened to her. And if anything were to happen to Naruto-kun because of what I've done, I, I don't think I could live with myself.”
“Shhh, don't talk like that Sakura. I've told you this isn't your fault. Sasuke would have learned about Naruto and Hinata soon enough whether you had said anything or not. And nothing bad has happened to either of them and nothing will. You just have to believe that ok? Now I want you to get some rest, as soon as I return from the mission I'll check in on you.”
Sakura nodded her head meekly, as Tsunade laid her back onto the bed and adjusted the covers. Giving Sakura's hand a reassuring squeeze and smile, Tsunade left the room. As Sakura lay in her bed staring at the ceiling a lone tear streaked down her cheek and she softly uttered a plea.
“Oh Kami, what have I done. Please Kami please let them be alright.”
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Kakashi landed on a rooftop in the middle of Konoha and came to a stop. Looking about frantically, he then smacked his fist into the palm of his other hand while thinking to himself.
`You're a damn idiot Kakashi! You have no idea where to go to look for this secret training area of Kurenai's. Think man think, who might know where it is? Tsunade said Kurenai had requested a day pass for her and Hinata to leave the village, but just those two, not the rest of her team. That's it, Shino and Kiba must still be around, and maybe they know where that training spot is at? But where to go to look for them, Tsunade said Kurenai had given them the day off. I can't afford to search the entire village for them, where might they be?'
After a few minutes of deep thought, Kakashi's visible eye grew wide in realization as he proclaimed.
“Akamaru, that's the key to finding them!”
Kakashi then bit his thumb to draw some blood onto his hand before slamming his palm onto the rooftop and shouting.
“Kuchiyose no Jutsu!” (Summoning Technique)
As the smoke from Kakashi's summoning disappeared, standing before the one-eyed Jounin was a small light brown pug of a dog with droopy eyes and a sharp witted tongue, who looked up and said.
“What's up Kakashi?”
“Pakkun, you know Akamaru's scent don't you?'
“The Inuzuka familiar, yeah we've sniffed butts in the past.”
Kakashi cocked an eyebrow at that statement before Pakkun added with annoyance.
“What, it's the equivalent of your humans handshake!”
“Never mind about that Pakkun, I need you to locate Akamaru right away and lead me to him!”
Pakkun grumbled in irritation, but did as he was asked and closed his eyes and began sniffing the air. After a minute of this, his eyes shot wide open and he exclaimed.
“I've got it, follow me!”
Pakkun then began leaping from rooftop to rooftop followed closely behind by Kakashi.
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As Shino walked along the market avenue listening to his friend Kiba with his dog Akamaru perched on his shoulder, he exhaled a heavy sigh. Kiba had done nothing but complain for the last hour about having nothing to do. What was most annoying to the Aburame heir was the fact that Kiba had shot down every suggestion he had made to rectify that situation. Shino's patience was at an end when he finally told his Inuzuka companion to come up with something for them to do. After a moment Kiba spoke up and said.
“Well, it's lunchtime, why don't we get something to eat? Let's go to Ichiraku Ramen!
“Not again, Kiba the only reason you want to go to Ichiraku's is so you can hit on Ayame and we never get anything to eat!” Shino groused in irritation.
“What do you mean Shino?”
“I mean we go there, you use some lame or insulting pickup line on Ayame, she gets mad, slaps you, and then tells her father. Who then chases after us with some very sharp or very blunt instrument to use on us. I haven't been able to eat a meal there in weeks when I'm with you!”
“Oh Ayame is just playing hard to get, she'll come around.”
“Face it Kiba, Ayame would sooner go out with Akamaru than with you.”
Akamaru gave a happy bark in agreement which earned both he and Shino a glare from Kiba. Just as Kiba was about to respond, a small dog landed in front of them followed quickly by Kakashi who immediately asked.
“Shino, Kiba where is this training area Kurenai and Hinata have gone to today?”
“We, we, don't know where that training area is Kakashi-sama.” Kiba sputtered in response.
Kakashi thinking the Inuzuka heir was lying grabbed the front of Kiba's shirt and lifted him off the ground to look Kiba directly in his face and said with authority.
“Look Kiba I know it's a private training spot for Kurenai and it's suppose to be a secret, but her and Hinata's life may be in danger! I need to know where they are at and I need to know right now!”
“I, I swear we don't know where ……..” Kiba began to say before Shino interrupted by stating.
“They're at an enclosed grotto about five to six miles northeast of the village. There's a small clearing surrounded by a deep thick forest. The grotto has a small stream running through it, find the stream and follow it heading north and you should find them.”
“Thank you Shino. Now I need the two of you to gather some of your Shinobi comrades and follow me to that grotto as soon as possible!” Kakashi ordered as he let go of Kiba and was about to leap away before Shino asked.
“What is going on Kakashi-sama? Why are Kurenai-Sensei and Hinata in danger?”
“It's Sasuke, he's after Hinata!” Kakashi quickly replied, before leaping off towards the northeast gate of the village.
Both Kiba and Shino's eyes grew wide with shock and fear at what Kakashi had just said, before they glanced at one another and quickly turned around to race down the avenue in search of anyone they knew who could help them.
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`Troublesome'
That was the lone thought going through Shikamaru's mind as he sat and attempted to ignore his girlfriend Temari and Neji's girlfriend Tenten drone on and on about Kami knows what, as they all sat in the patio area of the restaurant they were eating at. Shikamaru inwardly cursed himself for not coming up with an excuse to be anywhere but there when Temari had announced to him that they were going on a luncheon double date with Tenten and Neji and then shopping afterwards. Looking over towards the Hyuga prodigy, the only consolation Shikamaru took from his predicament was that Neji looked absolutely as bored as he did. Shikamaru exhaled a heavy sigh, as he heard the girl's squeal about something? What it was he didn't know, as it was much too troublesome to listen to them. All he knew is that it would take either a miracle or a catastrophe to escape from this most troublesome situation. It was at that moment when Kiba and Shino came skidding to a halt by their table, a small fence being the only thing that separated the two groups. Shikamaru heard Kiba say in a panicked voice.
“You guys, I'm glad we saw you! You need to come with us right now to go and get Hinata and Kurenai-Sensei!”
“And why do we need to do this mutt-boy!” Neji snidely remarked.
“Look you stuck up emo asshole! As much as I'd like to trade insults or just kick your ass, we don't have the time. It's Sasuke and he's after Hinata RIGHT NOW!”
Everyone eyes grew wide with horror upon hearing that name. A moment later Neji and Shikamaru leaped over their table and the fence followed closely behind by Tenten and Temari. However, as soon as the two kunoichi's landed Neji turned around and looked directly at Tenten before asking with irritation.
“And where do you think you're going?”
“Wha, what? Why with you to go and help Hinata.” Tenten stammered.
“I think not! I, Shikamaru, Shino, and Kiba will handle this matter without your assistance!”
“You forgot about me Hyuga!” Temari chimed in.
“No he didn't, because you're not going either.” Shikamaru calmly stated.
“What did you say to me Shika, we may be going out, but that doesn't give you the right to tell me where I can or can't go! I'm not some weak unskilled kunoichi, and you guys need all the help you can get if it's the Uchiha asshole you're going up against!”
“Look Temari, I never thought you were a weak unskilled kunoichi, and yes we could use your help! But this is a Konoha matter and you are not a Shinobi of this village, so you going with us is totally out of the question.”
“Why!”
“So troublesome, I can't believe I have to explain this to you. Temari you are the duly appointed ambassador of Sunagakure to our village. As such your safety while within our borders is our responsibility. If you were to get injured or killed while under our protection especially during a mission or affair that was strictly a Konoha matter. It would cause a political incident or fracture between our two villages that could lead to war between our nations. So while under normal personal circumstances you're correct, I don't have the right to tell you where you can or can't go. But in this case as Konoha's appointed liaison to you, I do have the right to tell you you're not going and that's final! Besides, you need to stay here and take care of Tenten.”
Tenten and Neji who had been having a similar argument as Temari and Shikamaru both turned their heads to the Nara heir when he said Tenten's name. Shikamaru shot Neji a quizzical glance, which the Hyuga prodigy quickly understood. Activating his Byakugan, Neji quickly lashed out and struck several key Tenketsu points on his girlfriend's neck causing Tenten to go unconscious. Before she could drop to the ground, Neji caught her and then suddenly flung the weapons mistress into the arms of Temari. The surprised Suna kunoichi barely had time to catch Tenten and could do nothing else as she watched her boyfriend and his comrades go sprinting down the street and out of sight. Grinding her teeth in anger and frustration, all Temari could think about was the various ways she was going to hurt Shikamaru the moment she saw him again. However, her mood quickly changed to worry and concern, as the realization hit her that she might not see him again if he was going up against Sasuke.
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Meanwhile, as Shikamaru and company raced towards the northeast gate of Konoha, Kurenai and Hinata disengaged from what had been a strenuous Taijutsu spar. As they both attempted to catch their breath, Kurenai commented to her kunoichi pupil while Hinata deactivated her Byakugan.
“Your Taijutsu skills have improved dramatically the last few months Hinata, well done. You've incorporated some unusual techniques into your Gentle Fist style. Where might I ask did you learn those moves?”
“Thank you Kurenai-Sensei. As for the techniques, Naru-kun has been helping me with improving my Taijutsu.”
“I should have guessed, some of those moves were rather unorthodox but effective. Only Naruto could come up with a technique like that and make it work.”
“My Naru-kun is full of surprises; it's one of the things I love about him!” Hinata stated with a giggle, as she ran her hand through her hair. It was then that Kurenai noticed the Hyuga girl didn't have a flower in her hair and asked.
“Hinata, how come you don't have a flower in your hair?”
“Well, it may seem silly, but a flower in my hair represents something special between Naruto and me, so I'll only wear a flower when Naruto is around. When he is gone on a mission or something like he is right now, I won't wear a flower in my hair. It's for him and no one else. I haven't worn a flower since the night of Ino's party.”
“That was a beautiful Crimson Lily Kakashi-san got for Naruto to give to you that night.” Kurenai stated while her thoughts drifted to the masked Jounin.
“Don't be silly Kurenai-Sensei; Kakashi-san didn't get that flower for Naruto to give to me that night. He got that flower to give to someone else himself.”
“Who?” Kurenai asked.
Hinata for her part merely cocked an eyebrow at her teacher and stared directly at Kurenai as if silently saying, “you know who!”
Kurenai saw the look Hinata was giving her and began to wilt under her gaze, as she seemed to understand the silent message Hinata was conveying to her. Just as Kurenai was about to respond, she stopped as she noticed the forest around them had gone deathly silent. There was not an animal, bird, or insect making a sound which set off an alarm in Kurenai's mind. As Kurenai turned back to Hinata, she quietly said.
“Hinata, I want you to activate your Byakugan and scan the forest around us. Whatever you discover make no facial expression about it, and calmly tell me what you find?”
Hinata activated her Byakugan as she was instructed and took in a near 360° view of their surroundings. After a moment, she deactivated her Kekkei Genkai and quietly stated with apprehension.
“Kur, Kurenai-Sensei, I sense 33 chakra signatures in the forest. Most of them are Chunin level with a couple of low level Jounin signatures, and one very high upper level Jounin signature. But that's not the worst news Kurenai-Sensei.”
“What is it Hinata?”
“They have us surrounded.”
Author Note: Well it's looking pretty bleak for Hinata and Kurenai right now, and I don't think it's going to get better. But on the plus side, you readers will be getting both a Kurenai and Hinata battle scene which are fairly uncommon in most stories in the next chapter. Talk about monumental screw-ups on both Tsunade and Sakura's part, good thing Jiraiya was there to step-up and take charge for a bit. Anyways, I hope everyone enjoys the chapter? It was a lot of work and I fought through a couple of small bouts of writers block on it, and overall I think it came out well. But I will let you readers be the judge of that. As always, if anyone wants to discuss the story in greater detail, just shoot me a PM. I enjoy talking about the story with any readers who really have an interest in it. I'll try to respond back to you as quickly as I can. Take it easy and be good!
Kingkakashi
School time:
Aplomb
Definition: Self-confident assurance; poise
Etymology: French 1823
Part of Speech: Noun
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