Revelations Of The Mind

‘After all…’ thought Sakura ‘He’s mine…and I’m his’

The two young shinobi starred at each other, their warm breath coursing over their faces as they tried to catch their breath. Minutes had past by as their passion had taken control of them. Now, the draw reduced, they basked in each other taking in their opposites finer makings. The subtlety of the jaw, the sharpness of the chin and above all else the beauty of the eyes.

Sakura’s fingers traced over the line of Naruto’s jaw, softly gliding them over his skin causing shivers of delight to course down his spine. They both were smiling stupidly at each other, yet neither cared. Their lips grazed ever so slightly, enjoying the present throbbing of their sore lips as they touched yet again.

Sakura found her fingers, eventually, circling her bite mark which was steadily scarring. It wasn’t natural for Naruto to scar, as she was quite aware as the few scars that had marred her body had disappeared since her joining with the fox. She was reasonably sure that the only scars actually on him were the whisker marks that came with housing the fox first. But now there was a new scar, and she couldn’t help but be pleased with its presence. After all, she had marked him, however lightly, as hers and the possession was wonderful.

*Knock Knock*

Naruto growled, upset at the interruption, and at Sakura’s apparent need to answer the door.

“Yes?” asked Sakura, trying to ignore the attention being lavished on her collarbone and finding it exceedingly difficult.

“It’s Shizune, may I come in?” asked Shizune through he door.

“Just…ugh…Just one second!” said Sakura pushing Naruto back, causing him to emit a low growl.

‘NARUTO! Don’t you growl at me!’ thought Sakura, scolding him strongly.

Catching himself, Naruto groaned…it wasn’t like him to be so aggressive. It was just that he had seen an opening eventually leading to her lips and had been planning on taking it when she had pulled away, now she was upset with him again and it was killing him.

At least that’s what he believed, fact is he still had a lot to learn about her mannerisms; time which he would gladly spend.

Sakura giggled, breaking Naruto from his pouting and bringing him back into the realm of euphoria that he had been controlled by for the last ten or so minutes.

‘If you liked it that much we can continue later.’ Said Sakura her giggling being replaced by a teasing tone ‘But right now we have to deal with our nurse.’

“Alright Shizune, you can come in.” said Sakura, before Naruto could mutter a word of protest.

The door opened as Tsunade’s assistant, and their personal nurse, came through the door smiling broadly at the couple sitting on the bed, quite comfortable in each other’s presence bye their proximity

Shizune starred at the pair for a moment. They were both flushed yet neither of them showed the reason why, though she could guess, after all the longer her gaze fell on Sakura the darker her blush became.

Shizune smiled, she was glad for Sakura and more importantly she was excited for Naruto.

“Yes, Shizune-sama?” asked Naruto, squeezing Sakura’s hand gently feeling her unease.

Shizune looked at Naruto for a moment, gaze shifting from Sakura. She had fist in hand in a second’s time, remembering what she had come here in the first place to do.

“Right, sorry you two just looked so cut!” Shizune giggled, watching the blush spread further over the two then should have been possible, and especially for two who had bleed so profusely. Though Shizune had noticed that for all their feigned embarrassment the possessive hold they both had on each other never left.
Her smile left her face quickly as she decided to move to the business of her original visit.

“Uzumaki Naruto, I have been sent to inform you that you have been summoned by the Hokage, you are to report in five minutes.” Said Shizune strongly, and added for the benefit of Sakura. “No Arguments.”

‘Damit, what does Tsunade want now…’ groaned Naruto inwardly as he proceeded to get up.

‘Come on Naruto be nice…’ thought Sakura, though she too wished he didn’t have to leave…it already hurt a little. ‘I’m sure it’s important, besides it’s not like I’m going anywhere.’

Shizune looked on, watching the two stare at each other displaying some kind of communications…well at least it appeared to be communication, and it would have to be if Sakura had just slapped the boy.

‘There really must be a lot more to this link then either Tsunade or I realized…’ thought Shizune

‘That hurt Sakura-Chan…’ thought Naruto, rubbing his cheek lightly.

‘You deserved it…’ said Sakura glaring at him as he continued his rubbing his red marked cheek ‘Oh quit being a baby…’

Shizune was surprised; Sakura had slapped him…and then nuzzled Naruto’s cheek with her own, Naruto seemingly melting into the embrace.

‘If being a baby gets me this I should probably start buy diapers…’ groaned Naruto causing a laugh from the fox who had apparently been listening in on the whole thing.

Naruto jumped back before the next blow landed a large smile present on his face directed at the pink haired girl below him…whose anger disappeared quite quickly.

“GO TO THE HOKAGE!!!” yelled Sakura, trying to hold back a sigh at his smile.

“Yes, Love…” said Naruto, smiling broadly still as a surprised blush spread over Sakura’s face.

A cough from Shizune knocked them out of their play.

“Oh right, ok Shizune I’ll come with you to the Hokage…I’ll be back later Sakura-Chan” said Naruto

“Don’t worry Naruto, you don’t have to come by, I’m sure you’ll have other things you’ll have to do…” said Sakura, her sad expression hidden by her falling hair.

Naruto’s hand moved fast, cupping her chin and bring her eyes to meet his own, moving her hair back behind her ears with his other hand.

“Having too has nothing to do with it love.” Said Naruto, thinking shortly ‘I’m more interested in you then in Ramen anyway.’

Sakura laughed openly, managing to not blush at such a compliment from him. Waving him away, giggling to herself.

Naruto turned to leave, moving out the door only to stop outside and turn around wondering why Shizune wasn’t following.

“I never said I was coming with you Naruto…you’re a big boy” teased Shizune “After all I have a few things I have to talk to Sakura about.”

“Umm…ok…” said Naruto, showing a concerned look towards Sakura.

“BAKA! It’s got nothing to do with her health.” Scolded Shizune, her ability to read his thoughts rather surprising. “Now get out of here and go to the Hokage’s office, you don’t want to keep them waiting!”

“Them?” said Naruto, standing with his hands in his pockets, much like an old friend.

Shizune groaned, it wasn’t like her to let things slip.

“Just go!” yelled Shizune, pushing the boy down the hall and tickling him at the same time by hitting some of his spots she had learned when he was a baby…though he wouldn’t know that.

“Alright, Alright I’m going…just…s- STOP…tickling me...” spasmed Naruto as he broke into a sprint to escape the assault.

Sakura laughed as Shizune reentered the room.

“You know some day your going to have to teach me those points…they could come in handy.” Said Sakura, giggling slightly at the prospect of using them on him.

“Yeah, I found them when he was a baby…he was always cute when he would laugh…I loved it, I’m sure you will too Sakura…” said Shizune sighing slightly, taking brief notice of the caring hand placed on her wrist.

“I’m sure you’ll get the chance again…” smiled Sakura, suddenly placing a hand on her bicep “Especially if I have anything to say about it!”

“No, I’ve had my fun already…” chuckled Shizune, looking pointedly at Sakura “I’ve seen enough of his father to know what he looks like…plus that adventure should be saved for his love.”

Sakura blushed under the woman’s gaze, piercing as it was. It was not something she hadn’t considered, being Naruto’s love, however she still wasn’t used to it being voiced.

“There is no reason to be so embarrassed you know…” came a voice from the corner of the room.

Both Jounin jumped at the sudden intrusion as the shadow that clouded the left most corner began to fade, obviously a type of justsu.

“TEMARI!” hissed Shizune, anger quickly replacing her surprise. “The least you could do is knock…”

“Why!? It’s not like I don’t know he’s your son.” Responded the Sand Jounin

“That’s besides the point…” pouted Shizune

Sakura watched as the exchanged occurred, and being as well trained as she was she noticed that while Shizune was surprised at how Temari entered…she wasn’t at all surprised on her being there.

“Wait hold on a minute…” said Sakura interjecting herself “Not to be rude but what are you doing here…”

*With Naruto*

Naruto jumped quickly from roof to roof absentmindedly rubbing a new scar on his neck. It was nice to the touch and the memory of getting it was definitely one of his better ones. However, it did strike him odd that he liked to be bitten…well not the act so much as what it represented…but still, what did it represent?

‘Damn if this ain’t confusing!’ thought Naruto

‘It’s just instinct kit…’ said Kyuubi

‘Well, I figured it was something to do with you…so spill explain the “instinct”…’ said Naruto, hurrying quickly over the roofs ‘And make it fast, I’m gonna be at the Hokage's office in about 2 minutes.’

‘Hmmm, guess the best way to explain it is that you weren’t paying enough attention to her demands…and my side or rather my side if I was a female wanted you too…’ said Kyuubi, the mental image of the fox in the classic thinking position came to the front of Naruto’s mind ‘So she bit you…not very hard though, just enough to leave a mark on you and to warn others to stay clear…’

‘Mark on me? So, is that why it won’t heal over like the others?’ Asked Naruto

‘Yup, it’s …well it’s rather like marriage for you humans, designates you as her mate…’ Responded Kyuubi

Naruto’s footing couldn’t have been worse, he’s foot slid, causing him to fall of the present tile and make his heavy upper body exceed the dropping point…and as such send him careening down the roof onto the ground below leaving a rather large bump on his head, and hole in the street.

‘MARRIAGE!!!!?!!??’ yelled Naruto, half out of surprise and half again on the fear of Sakura’s wrath once she found out.

‘Yes…so don’t be surprised if she gets a little possessive, though I should warn you she probably doesn’t know the significance of the act…like I said it’s instinct.’ Said Kyuubi, completely undisturbed by his host’s stupidity.

‘I…I can’t…I can’t believe this…’ said Naruto, shock and awe the term in this case.

‘Well you should, and now all you have to do is claim her as yours and your set for life by my standards…’ said Kyuubi ‘She is and exceptionally fine choice if I do say so myself, she’ll have some strong pups!’

‘Wait, go back a few steps…, what do you mean claim her?’ asked Naruto, getting up and helping a old man who had fallen thanks to his falling.

‘Well you have to mark her of course…’ said Kyuubi ‘Otherwise any other male can come and claim her for himself…’

The very image of such an act set Naruto’s blood to boil, it was infuriating, Sakura was his that was it no one else’s, none, uh uh, nope, nada, NO!!!

Naruto jumped up onto the roofs once again, new found energy in the blast of anger he had received through his imagination. It was incredible what the boy could do when he lost control…even if it was just running, he was blur in every sense of the word.

‘I won’t mark her if she doesn’t want me too…’ thought Naruto, making Kyuubi frown slightly.

‘Naruto, if she didn’t want you to she wouldn’t have marked you…whether she knows logically or not, she does know instinctually, and it takes quite a bit more on the females side to make such an act. I’m pretty sure you’re set…’ said Kyuubi, shutting of the connection afterwards, saying all he had needed to knowing that the boy would take the right path…if his smile was any example.

*With Sakura*

Temari smiled at Sakura, knowing full well that whatever edge there was to her voice was out of confusion and not spite.

“You know Sakura, being that you are a nurse I figured you of all people would know that a woman only has to stay in the hospital a few days after birth and it’s been at least a week…” said Temari walking over to Sakura’s bedside and turning Naruto’s chair around to sit in, causing a small frown on Sakura’s face.

“Oh right…sorry, I was just surprised…how is your child by the way?” asked Sakura

“Oh, she’s fine, being spoiled by her father per usual…her names Sakyuu by the way.” Said Temari “It means sand dune in case you’re wondering.”

“Oh it’s lovely…I’m sure she’s gorgeous.” Said Sakura, the name sounding appropriate for her parents…well parent anyway…she was pretty sure Shikamaru didn’t really have a choice.

“Hmm, I wouldn’t know…her fathers been hogging her up, I swear for all of that man’s detachment…when he saw her he just…” sighed Temari, gradually fading away into what seemed to be a sort of trance…or daydream.

“Yes…?” asked Sakura after a few seconds past.

“What!? Oh…” said Temari blushing “Sorry, every time I think about the way he looked at her and how they looked together…it just makes me…happy.”

Out of the corner of her eye Sakura could have sworn she saw Shizune nod…if only slightly. She had to admit, she was rather anxious to know that feeling.

“You’re going to have to bring her by so I can see her, I’m afraid my nurse still won’t let me leave the room…” said Sakura teasingly.

“Oh don’t be so mean Sakura, I’m just looking out for your health…” said Shizune

“Or trying to keep your sons love interest in one easy to reach place.” Said Temari, chuckling slightly

“Hey…that’s not fair.” Said Shizune, blushing lightly.

“So it’s true?” asked Temari gasping slightly, Sakura raising an eyebrow.

“Not completely…” responded Shizune, shuffling her feet knowing she was trapped.

“Don’t sweat it Shizune, it’s not like I don’t enjoy his company…and considering certain recent developments it was probably for the best.” Said Sakura, laughing louder at the two shocked faces that meet her response.

“Yeah, so how do you feel Shizune, your son’s innocence is slipping away…” teased Temari

“In this case I think I’d have no objections…” responded Shizune, a soft smile on her face as she stared at the pink haired jounin, bringing a small blush to her face.

“*cough* Speaking of that, how exactly do you know that Naruto is Shizune’s son?” asked Sakura

“Well, being the assistant of the Kazekage as well as an older sister has its benefits…don’t worry I’m not planning on telling anybody…” said Temari

“What about Shikamaru?” asked Shizune

“He knows…” said Temari

“WHAT!?” said a shocked Shizune

“He was deemed worthy of trust by the Kazekage himself…as such he was given full access to our archives…we couldn’t stop him.” Said Temari “It’s not like it matters, Shikamaru would have figured it out on his own and he has kept the fact that Naruto housed a Demon under wraps for quite some time as well.”

“I suppose…but still…I don’t exactly feel comfortable with this information being so spread out…” said Shizune, receiving a glare from Temari.

“If I didn’t know what happened all those years ago Shizune, I’d probably kill you myself for what you’ve done to Naruto…” said Temari, glare ever piercing into the Hokage’s assistant. “As it is though, I can’t really blame you…I just wished it happened to an asshole instead of such a good man.”

“Yes but could we trust an asshole with that…” responded Shizune, a dark look on her face.

“Unh…” grunted Temari in response.

Sakura looked between the two wide eyed, trying to deduce with all her might, just what the hell they were talking about.

‘Kyuubi?’ thought Sakura, watching the on going conversation.

‘Hmm? Yes, Kit?’ responded the fox, finding the constant running of Naruto more then boring enough to recede into Sakura’s mind fully…plus he liked it there more, a lot more to occupy his time.

‘What are they talking about?’ asked Sakura ‘You should know, after all you knew that Shizune was Naruto’s Mother…’

‘Umm, I can’t actually tell you that…’ responded Kyuubi, curling a little tighter into himself.

‘What!?’ yelled Sakura, her face that of pure shock ‘WHY THE HELL NOT!?’

‘Uh…’ stammered Kyuubi, once again understanding Naruto innate fear of this woman ‘Basically because Naruto doesn’t know…and you might…tell…him…’

Sakura’s face contorted into something feral, three long lines formed onto her cheeks as the fact that Kyuubi apparently didn’t trust her sunk in. She didn’t exactly know why it had pissed her off so much, but it was definitely hard to control and seeing how both Temari and Shizune were now starring at her she figured it showed.

“Umm, Sakura-Chan are you alright?” asked Shizune, walking towards her and placing a hand on her shoulder.

“No…” growled Sakura, her face moving quickly with piercing eyes to meet Shizune’s own. “I’m not alright, what the hell happened to Fifth and why can’t you tell him you’re his mother!?”

Temari and Shizune looked at each other, faces of concern passing between the two of them, what he concern was for was anyone’s guess.

“We can’t tell you Sakura, it’s a village secret in both our villages.” Said Temari looking straight into her eyes “Fact is we shouldn’t have been talking about it in front of you…we just got carried away.”

“DAMIT!!!” screamed Sakura, frustration and concern on behalf of her friend overtaking her as she grabbed onto Shizune’s collar yelling into her face. “WHY THE HELL CAN’T YOU TELL ME!!”

Shizune, for her part, just looked away uttered only words of regret until Sakura’s elevated levels of adrenaline gave way to her tears, prompting Shizune to pull Sakura to her, to provide what little comfort to her that she could.

“I’m sorry Sakura, I know your concerned for Naruto…but you just can’t know this, not yet.” Said Shizune, stroking her hair lovingly

“….damit” sobbed Sakura, pushing herself further into the loving caress of Shizune, trying to gain more comfort to dissuade her form the tirade of emotions. “Even…even Kyuubi won’t tell me…what the hell happened.”

*With Naruto*
Naruto’s speed decreased as he grew closer to his destination, the Hokage’s Tower residence. It really wasn’t as though Naruto couldn’t have been there in a second; after all he could essentially teleport from one place to another within the bounds of Konoha like very other ninja could. He just really didn’t want to be there, or get where he was going.

It was inevitable however, and as he reached his favorite window it became clear even to the ever optimistic shinobi.

*Smash*

“Ahtatatata…” stammered Naruto holding his bruised nose, making sure it wasn’t broken.

“Naruto; you IDIOT!” came a shout

Naruto’s eyes shot open at the yell of his obaachan, or Hokage as the people called her…and he smirked.

Tsunade’s hand shot out, grabbing him by the collar and drawing him quickly into the room, throwing him into the process.

Naruto gracefully fell through the air pulling a somersault and landing on his feet, it was nothing hard really, after all Tsunade wasn’t actually angry…he’d be through the wall then…and that had only happened a few hundred times.

“So, Hokage-sama, why did you send for me pray tell?” asked Naruto, his choice holding a bit of his content for his current location.

“Uzumaki Naruto, as a chuunin of Konoha you know better then to stand lax in the presence of the Kazekage.” Yelled Tsunade causing Naruto to jump in fright, Tsunade was actually angry now, and as such he snapped to attention…until a light chuckling was heard from behind him.

Naruto eyed Tsunade hesitantly, realizing he had indeed embarrassed Tsunade…and himself.

“Naruto, you haven’t changed much…” said a voice behind him, monotone and dark. He immediately knew who it was.

Naruto threw himself around to look at the auburn headed shinobi, a large grin on his face.

“Gaara!!!” yelled Naruto, jumping on Gaara and pulling him into a full bear hug, he hadn’t seen his auburn headed friend in about a year, and apparently they had finally promoted him to Kazekage in that time.

Gaara, for all his feigned annoyance at the current situation, couldn’t help the smile that slowly crawled onto his face. The blonde headed boy was one of the few people he knew he should fear, and in that sense respect, but beyond that he was his truest…friend. Well, something akin to it anyway, after all Naruto was the only person to have earned that title from Gaara. Even his brother in-law, who he had to admit he liked, couldn’t measurer up to Naruto in that sense…he just wasn’t dependable enough. Where Shikamaru would defend someone to his utmost, Naruto would defend them till he was dead.

Essentially, it could be said that Gaara felt the safest when in Naruto’s presence…since hew as the only person superior to himself…h had beaten him after all.

Naruto, for his part, had gotten to like Gaara and his whole family since he had crashed in the sand for a year, learning what techniques they would teach him. They had taught him quite a few of their “Secret” techniques on Gaara’s request as head of the Sand’s equivalent of ANDU, vying for Naruto's incorruptibility. The council was hesitant at first seeing as Naruto had beaten Gaara, their strongest warrior, but after six months of seeing him interact with the people of the sand, he was deemed worthy unanimously. Since then both Gaara and Naruto had become very close, only sharing between themselves the secrets of being a demon vessel, the pain of it. Though Naruto was by far the better off of the two, it seemed that with his guidance and presence Gaara’ own burden was lessened. The demon quieted with the presence of the one who conquered him, and Gaara regained his ability to sleep, and his sanity.

“Ya know, Naruto, you really shouldn’t squeeze the Kazekage to death, it would be troublesome.” Said Shikamaru

Naruto just laughed harder, knowing in his own way that Shikamaru wasn’t serious, especially when holding such a cute baby.

Gaara felt himself being put down quickly, the movement of his friend felt only as a guest of wind.

“Hello there!!!” said Naruto, hanging one of his fingers in front of the babies face, receiving coo in response “And who might you be?”

“Her name is Sakyuu Nara of both the Sand and Leaf…” said Gaara, the slightest smile present on his face as he starred at his niece.

As if on cue, or rather as an example of her free spirit embodied in her thanks to Temari, Sakyuu rolled out of Shikamaru’s arms quicker then he could react, only to be caught softly by a cradle of sand.

Both Naruto and Shikamaru let out a sigh of relief, eventually leading to smiles as Gaara absentmindedly rocked Sakyuu and watched her.

“Never thought you liked your family so much Gaara…” said Naruto

“Yeah, he’s a bit over protective actually…” said Shikamaru sighing

“Someone has to be…plus I’ve always liked my sister.” Said Gaara “And I’ve never struck her of my own accord…”

“Gaara-sama, we should really get down to business…” said Tsunade, smiling warmly at the four, “Children”, in her office.

“Yes, your right…Tsunade-baba.” Said Gaara leaving the cribs side yet leaving a sand clone to play with the baby, and look after her.

A vein popped out on Tsunade’s head as the three men gathered around her desk, knowing full well she couldn’t strike the Kazekage to take out her anger…she had to take a few breaths.

“Alright, then, lets start.” Said Tsunade with an edge on her voice. “Naruto!”

“Yes…?” said Naruto, quirking an eyebrow

Tsunade handed Naruto a scroll, obviously containing his mission requirements…however, Naruto’s typical happy reaction at a mission was not present. In fact his face fell as it went along.

“Is there something wrong with your assignment Naruto-kun?” asked Tsunade

“…I can’t do this…” mumbled Naruto

“You’re refusing the mission..?” asked a surprised Tsunade, an eyebrow raised on her as well as the other men gathered.

“Tsunade-sama, I apologize but I’ve just…acquired something that I truly love…and I ‘m afraid I just can’t leave it at the moment.”

*With Sakura*

“Sakura, we have asked for your services, among some others to assist the sand on starting a medical ninja school in our village.” Said Temari “Tsunade has agreed.”

Sakura’s face fell, she’d just figured out how she felt about him and now…

“The term is anywhere from 1 to 6 years, basically until the second class graduates.” Continued Temari “As you know many of our academy students do not make it to be shinobi, so the medical training academy, we hope, will be their second chance.

“I can’t…” said Sakura, very lightly.

“What was that?” asked Temari, honestly unable to hear her quiet response

“I can’t take this mission…I have something important to me here that I just can’t leave yet.” Said Sakura

Shizune, looking on from the corner, just smiled.

*With Naruto*

Tsunade laughed loudly, large bellowing laughs, enough to scare any sane person…yet Shikamaru was also chuckling…and even Gaara had a slight smile on his face.

“I don’t think you have to worry about leaving that behind.” Said Shikamaru.

*With Sakura*

“What do you MEAN I don’t have anything to worry about!?” yelled Sakura, on the verge of tears from her friends apparent unwillingness to allow her to deny the mission.

“Sakura…” said Shizune, smile broad. “You don’t have to worry about him.”

“FUCK THAT!!!” yelled Sakura again, surprising both women. “I don’t even want to leave his side, of course I’m going to worry, what if some little hussy comes by and takes him out from under me!!!”

“That’s not what she meant Sakura.” Said Temari, surprisingly unphazed.

“Then what did she mean!” exclaimed Sakura

*With Naruto*

“Naruto, she means you don’t have to leave her.” Said Shikamaru, yawning in the process.

“Eh!?” Naruto’s jaw dropped. “But, how do I complete my mission.”

“I can answer that.” Said Tsunade, grinning like a fox.

*With Sakura*

“Naruto, along with a few other’s which he will be in charge of, will be your bodyguards. So he’s going to be by your side the whole way…and for possibly six years…you’ll have time.” Said Temari, smiling at the steadily pinking kunochi

*With Naruto*

“I’m going to be her body guard?” asked Naruto, rather dumbfounded

“More specifically, her personal bodyguard. You’re responsible for her complete safety. We believe that Orchimaru will attack the convoy, in an attempt to worsen relations between the Sand and Leaf. Your job is to make sure that the convoy gets their and more importantly that Sakura arrives in perfect condition.” Said Tsunade

“Not that I won’t protect her, but why is it so important that she makes it there, what is she going to do?” asked Naruto

“Basically, she’s going to set up a medical-ninja training academy fro the sand.” Said Tsunade “You, on the other hand, are going to help train the academy students at the sand, since you are well versed in their techniques, as well as teach some of our more open techniques to the chuunin’s there…along with the jounin’s we assign.”

Naruto’s face, though apparently shocked, grew serious.

“Who am I taking with me?” asked Naruto

Shikamaru brought out a scroll. “This is a list of requested shinobi for this mission.”

“Thank you, Shikamaru. “Said Tsunade “Hyuuga Neji, Hyuuga Hinata, Inuzuka Kiba, Yamanaka Ino, Rock Lee, Tenten, Akimichi Choji, and Aburame Shino.”

“Shikamaru?” asked Naruto eyeing the Jounin with a skeptical eye.

“Oh, I’m escorting the Kazekage back to the sand along with Temari and our daughter.” Said Shikamaru, earning a grunt of agreement from Gaara. “I’ll join you once your there.”

“Well alright, but I still don’t understand one thing.” Said Naruto

“Care to elaborate?” asked Tsunade

“How am I supposed to command a bunch of Jounin’s while being a chuunin?” asked Naruto smartly

“Naruto did you know, while on your five year trip with Jiraya, that you were gathering information on both Orchimaru and Akasuki for Konoha?” asked Tsunade

“What’s your point?” asked Naruto, eyebrow arched while Shikamaru groaned.

“Naruto, that constitutes a five year S-Class intelligence mission, making you Jounin 4 years ago. As such your senior to all of them by more then two years…including me. And though Sakura is in charge of the mission you are senior to her in combat situations.” Said Shikamaru

“I’m a Jounin?” asked Naruto, speechless, though obviously happy. His vest changing upon the revelation adding stripes to his uniform to indicate his new rank as well as changing the trim of the vest to a light pink.

The rest watched in awe of the change in clothing, well except Gaara, who’s appearance did not change…whether he was astounded was anyone’s guess.

“Someday your going to have to explain to my why that happened.” Said Tsunade. “But for now the Kazekage and I have more to talk about. You leave in three days. You will meet with your team in two days at the monument to the fallen ninja at noon. Your funds have already been allocated to your account, as well as your pay for time spent on the five year mission. Dismissed.”

*With Sakura*

“So, he’s my body guard for this mission then?” asked Sakura, a slight shade of pink coursing her face…though whether it had left her face at all is still doubtful.

“Yes you’re his personal charge.” Said Shizune, taking the opportunity to poke and tease. “Once you get to the sand he will still protect you, however, he will also teach and help with the defense of the village.”

“You are expected to lead the medical ninjas in a time of combat, Naruto is able to command you in that instance. He has more experience after all.” Said Temari, chuckling at how the explosive reaction that usually accompanied the pink haired konochi when “insulted” never came, thinking to her self. ‘I can’t wait to see their kids!’

“That’s fine, Naruto is better then me in that area anyway.” Said Sakura “What are the boarding conditions?”

Temari smirked, while Shizune struggled not to laugh.

“Well, we will provide housing, though you will have to decide who rooms with who.” said Temari

“Alright, well that seems fine.” Said Sakura, considering

“You on the other hand have to stay with Naruto.” Said Temari, almost happily.

“WHAT!?!?!?” screamed Sakura in surprise

“Gah…” groaned Shizune rubbing her ears fervently.

“Damnit Sakura…” said Temari, lifting herself from the chair she had been blown into…sometimes fun was a curse.

“What do you mean we have to stay together!?” said Sakura, not much calmer then before “We’re not even married yet.”

“Yet?” asked Shizune slyly

Sakura sat up straighter, full realization of her statement hitting her hard.

“Well…uh, ya see…ummm…….” Stammered Sakura, turning a shade of red bordering on purple as the two other women looked on with grins on their faces, belying their knowledge of the feelings coursing through the girl in front of them.

“You have to live with him because he’s your body guard. You have to understand Sakura.” Said Temari “the Sand is paying for your medical techniques, mind you at a lower price, and the abilities of Naruto to protect you. After all, our own Kazekage trust no one more then Naruto to finish a task, not even his family.”

Temari finished the statement with no sign of scorn or any other such emotion, apparently she agreed with her younger brother’s assessment.

Sakura still blushed but, she looked up at the pair. “Fine, I accept I’m sure that it won’t be to bad living with him.”

“Yeah, I’m sure you’ll have tons of fun.” Said Temari chuckling, only to receive a pair of glares from both Shizune and Sakura, causing her to look promptly out the window for a change of subject.

‘Naruto, I could kiss you right now…’ thought Temari “Hey, Naruto’s back.”

The glares from the two other women vanished almost instantly, eliciting a sigh from Temari…not that anyone noticed.

“Naruto…” sighed Sakura absentmindedly, watching the black blur approaching the window.

“CRAP!!!” came a startled cry from Naruto…who realized abruptly after trying to jump through the window…that it was closed.

Glass flew forward as Naruto broke through the window, and rolled onto the ground.

“Naruto!?” yelled Shizune and Sakura united in concern…Temari still hiding behind her fan as she was in direct line of the glass.

“BAKA!!!” yelled Temari hoisting Naruto up by the collar “HOW MANY TIMES DO I HAVE TO TELL YOU DAMIT!!! IT”S CALLED A DOOR!!!”

“…hai, Temari-san” groaned Naruto, pulling a stray piece of glass from his arm, the wound promptly healing.

“Naruto-kun, are you alright?” asked Shizune, offering a hand to Naruto at picking the glass out of his skin.

“Yeah, sorry bout that, I just wanted to get back.” Said Naruto, eliciting another small blush from Sakura, whose eyes had yet to leave him.
“Hmm,” grunted Temari “Well, I’m missing my baby so I’m going to go now...”

“Oh, Gaara and Shikamaru have her at the Hokage’s office…in fact last I saw of her she was sucking on one of Gaara’s fingers.” Said Naruto, bringing a grin to Temari’s face

“I think I’ll come with you Temari, I haven’t seen your baby yet.” Glowed Shizune, maternity drive running on high.

The two made for the door, saying their goodbyes to Naruto and Sakura.

“Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do!” smirked Temari, half way down the hall.

“Enlighten me, what wouldn’t you do?” asked Shizune, automatically breaking into a sprint.

“WHAT DID YOU SAY!?” yelled the ever inflammable blonde chasing after her.

Naruto chuckled closing the door, meeting the eyes of his most important goal of the day.

“Naruto, you really should watch where your going you know; I don’t exactly like watching you picking glass out of yourself.” Said Sakura, smirking but deadly serious as she pulled a stray piece out of his scalp to punctuate the point.

“Hai Sakura-Chan, though I was just in a hurry to see you.” Responded Naruto smiling at the blushing girl in front of him.

Sakura felt the blush spread on her face. It was rather unnerving to think that Naruto affected her this way; it was as if she couldn’t even protect herself from him. That vulnerability was, to be blunt, quite enjoyable… as was his sweet talking.

“So, I’m assuming Temari and Shizune told you of the mission?” asked Naruto

“Yeah, it’s a big responsibility… truthfully, I’m pretty frightened.” Said Sakura, her emotion of the hour running over Naruto strongly.

Naruto moved forward and placed a hand on her cheek, causing her to force her face deep into his palm in worry, something that tore at his heart.

“Don’t worry Sakura-Chan…” said Naruto, characteristic smirk in place. “I’ll be there with you every step of the way, and as long as I’m there nothing bad will happen to you, I promise.”

Sakura’s face spread with a smile, feeling Naruto’s confidence overwhelm her. She moved her smile to his palm, proceeding to lightly bite and lick it, gaining shivers in response.

‘You two are really giving into the instincts aren’t you?’ chuckled Kyuubi

‘Not…now….” Whimpered Naruto, trying to control his anger at the interruption.

‘Liking the play?’ asked Kyuubi eyebrow arched.

‘OH, I know he is.’ Said Sakura biting the tip of his thumb.

Kyuubi laughed at this, it appeared that for all Sakura’s innocence and restraint once her emotions were exposed she became somewhat…aware of her wants…and the instincts of mating that he instilled with his presence only seemed to spur her on.

‘You know, I still don’t know why Sakura is in here…after all she seems completely healthy.’ Said Kyuubi

‘Well, I do get out tomorrow…’ thought Sakura, still playing with Naruto’s hand.

‘Not…soon…enough…’ staggered Naruto, coherent thoughts distorted by the on going torture Sakura was burdening him with.

Sakura smiled, she knew why Naruto had said that…this was definitely fun.

A soft crack was heard behind the couple, and a new weight was added to Naruto’s head. Though little did he realize it, after all the visitor really didn’t weight that much.

“Ahem” came a soft cough from the peaking snout just coming into view of Naruto’s eyes.

Naruto sighed openly, knowing full well that whatever fun he was having…was now ruined by the presence of the fox…two interruptions in one day…or was it three…who knows all he knew was he wanted them to stop.

“Hello Kotesu!” said Sakura, reaching up and scratching the fox just below his ear getting his leg to kick repeatedly and unfortunately scratching the Shit out of Naruto’s back.

‘Thanks for that, so much for not liking to see me in pain.’ Pouted Naruto

‘Only pain that I cause, Love.’ Smirked Sakura

Naruto grunted, grabbing the scruff of Kotesu’s neck and placed him on the bed.

“Good to see you again Kotesu…” said Naruto rather gruffly ‘Even if you do have a tendency to come in at the wrong moments.’

‘Naruto be nice, you know why he’s here after all…it’s not like he is doing it by choice.’ Thought Sakura

‘Yes I know…the family is calling you…’