Chapter 8: The Hyuga Clan

On their first day in the desert, as they continued running through the monotonous landscape of solid rock formations and boulders obscured by mounds of sand, Sakura grew increasingly drowsy from sheer boredom. Gaara, who was running beside her, noticed her odd behavior and expressed his concern, asking, "Are you alright?"

Appreciating Gaara's genuine concern for her well-being, Sakura replied, "Yeah, I'm a bit tired. This is my first real mission, so my body isn't used to running such a long distance yet."

Temari smirked knowingly and offered encouragement, "It takes time, but you'll get used to it."

Gaara, being straightforward, mentioned, "We won't take a break for at least another four hours. As a Shinobi, you'll have to keep up and learn to tough it out."

Kankuro smiled reassuringly, "Shinobi training is hard; don't take it personally."

Giving Sakura a friendly wink, Temari added, "If you can't take it anymore, let me know, and I'll help you out."

Sakura nodded her understanding. However, as three hours passed, she felt more than just fatigued; she was on the verge of losing consciousness. Her running became erratic, and she began to sway. Kankuro, following behind her, noticed the unusual way she was moving and quickly turned to Temari, saying, "Hey, look."

Temari observed Sakura's condition and watched as she began to collapse and roll, unconscious. Reacting swiftly, Kankuro jumped to avoid her falling body, clearly concerned for her well-being.

Gaara swiftly returned to Sakura's side, cradling her in his arms. Temari gently placed the back of her hand against Sakura's forehead, observing her flushed appearance. Concerned, she remarked, "She's severely dehydrated, Gaara. We need to take a break immediately."

Gaara nodded solemnly, regretting that he had pushed Sakura too hard, even though he intended to prepare her for the rigors of being a Shinobi. He carefully propped her up on his lap as the group unpacked the bento boxes that Sakura had thoughtfully designed for them. The prospect of the delicious meal brought a spark of excitement to their faces, as they all appreciated Sakura's nurturing nature.

With tenderness, Gaara arranged Sakura's meal and provided her with a tin of water, ensuring she would have it ready when she woke up. As the siblings engaged in conversation, Sakura slowly began to regain consciousness, fluttering her eyes open and groaning softly. Temari rubbed her shoulder gently and offered her some water, advising, "Take small sips for now, don't drink too quickly. We can't have you passing out on us again."

Sakura followed Temari's guidance, taking small sips from the tin of water. With each glass, she felt more awake than she had moments before. Gaara examined her closely and noticed that her face was still red, prompting him to ask, "Your face is still red. Are you feeling alright?"

Kankuro chimed in with a laugh, teasing, "Nope, that's all Sakura."

Temari joined in the laughter, which intensified as Sakura became more embarrassed. She couldn't believe she had collapsed before them, feeling like she had wasted their time. Temari reassured her, saying, "Don't worry, we're making good time. So eat up, and we'll keep moving."

Kankuro told Gaara, "Hey, you should use your sand to carry Sakura so she can rest properly. I know how you feel about it, but it's only a few more hours until we rest for the night."

Temari agreed, "Yeah, that's a good idea."

Gaara sighed, reluctantly conceding, "Fine, it won't consume too much of my chakra."

Sakura waved her arms around, protesting, "No, don't carry me, it's okay. Don't waste your chakra on me."

Temari and Kankuro frowned at her, clearly disappointed in her for neglecting her health. They looked at Gaara, awaiting his response. Gaara asserted, "Well, now I have to carry you."

Sakura gasped, "What? Why?"

Kankuro argued, "You're being overly selfless. It's not good for your health, so cut it out."

Temari leaned on her gently and added, "We appreciate how much you care for us, Sakura, but sometimes you have to let us take care of you too."

Sakura blushed and reluctantly agreed, "Okay, fine."

Once she had finished her meal, Gaara employed his sand to carry her, allowing the group to continue running for a few more hours. Sakura lay down, gazing at the stars above as she gradually fell asleep.

The following day, the sun slowly rose over the distant desert, casting a warm glow on the landscape. Sakura slowly fluttered her eyes open, immediately capturing the sight of a small lizard scurrying by. Wrapped snugly in Gaara's long white sash, she gingerly lifted her head and found Gaara sitting beside her, his third eye jutsu diligently scanning the surrounding areas. Meanwhile, Kankuro and Temari were busy tidying up their belongings in preparation for the upcoming long journey to the Land of Fire.

Gaara released his jutsu and leaned closer to Sakura, gently brushing her long, flowing black hair from her face, revealing a kind smile. He remarked, "You look much better today than you did yesterday."

Sakura's cheeks flushed with a faint blush as she responded, "That's good enough for me."

Gaara inquired, "Are you ready for today's journey?"

Sakura determinedly replied, "I'll do the best I can."

With a subtle wave of his hand, Gaara manipulated his sand to lift Sakura to her feet. She couldn't help but playfully run her fingers through the sand, pretending for a moment that she had control over it. Together, they resumed their journey, their eyes captivated by the ever-changing landscape as it transitioned from a sea of sand to lush, grassy terrain.

Gaara eventually slowed his pace to converse with his siblings and Sakura. He said, "I don't want to argue about this, but once we catch up to our mission, Sakura will continue to Konoha."

Kankuro was concerned, "You won't let her fight?"

Temari said, "Gaara, we need all the help we can get on this mission."

Gaara elaborated, "Kankuro, don't you agree? I'd rather have her go to the Hyuga Clan for treatment before she gets injured in battle."

Kankuro sighed, reluctantly conceding, "Yes, but Sakura should be the one to decide what she wants."

Sakura promptly responded, "He's right. My mission is different from yours. My mission is to go to Konoha and unblock my chakra. I just need to ensure my own safety. That's my mission."

Gaara nodded in agreement, a faint smirk playing on his face. Temari sought clarification, "Are you absolutely sure about this?"

Sakura reaffirmed her decision, "I'll be fine."

Kankuro still had reservations, stating, "Yeah, but you shouldn't have to go alone."

Sakura reassured him, "You can catch up with me once you're finished here. We'll all be okay."

On their journey's final day, Sakura bid the siblings farewell as they rushed to assist with the Sasuke recovery mission. She headed straight for the imposing red gates of Konoha. A couple of Jonin guards intercepted her, blocking her path. Sakura asserted, "I am the Princess of Sunagakure, and I must speak with the Hokage."

The Jonin exchanged perplexed glances but eventually nodded, agreeing to accompany her. They walked her through the vibrant village of Konoha, which was far more colorful than she had anticipated. As she neared the Hokage building, she couldn't help but notice the carved heads of all the Hokage on the walls, with the final one in line being the Fifth Hokage, a woman.

Sakura ascended the spiral staircase leading to the Hokage's office. Upon reaching the top, the Jonin accompanying her knocked on the door, and a voice from within called for them to enter. Sakura entered the office, her eyes falling upon a woman with fair skin, brown eyes, and straight blonde hair that parted just above her forehead. Her hair framed her face, with bangs extending to her shoulders, while the rest cascaded down to her lower back. A distinct violet diamond-shaped mark, a result of a jutsu, adorned the center of her forehead.

The woman had a slender figure with a curvaceous frame, above-average height, and notably ample breasts. She donned a grass-green haori featuring the kanji for "gamble" (賭, kake) on the back, enclosed within a red circle. Beneath the haori, she wore a sleeveless, grey kimono-style blouse fastened by a vast, dark, bluish-grey obi that matched her pants. The blouse was cut low, revealing her generous cleavage. Her attire was completed with open-toed, strapped black sandals boasting high heels. Her fingernails and toenails sported red nail polish, and she wore soft pink lipstick.

Sakura began with a respectful bow, her words momentarily escaping her as she faced the formidable figure before her. The woman introduced herself as the Fifth Hokage, Lady Tsunade, and inquired about Sakura's name.

Sakura hesitated before responding in a quiet tone, "My name is Sakura. I am the daughter of the Anbu Black Ops leaders of the Hidden Sand. They gave me the nickname 'Princess of Sunagakure' because my chakra was blocked, and I was unable to become a Shinobi until now."

Sakura recounted the events and challenges she had faced, captivating Lady Tsunade's attention. Tsunade acknowledged, "I see. To unblock your chakra is no simple feat, but it is possible. I will need to summon the head of the Hyuga Clan household for such a powerful jutsu."

Sakura, curious, inquired, "Who exactly is the Hyuga Clan?"

Tsunade explained, "The Hyuga Clan, much like yourself, is a noble and one of the strongest clans in the village. Every member possesses the Byakugan, a kekkei genkai that grants them extended fields of vision, the ability to see through solid objects, and even the chakra circulatory system, among other things. Members of this clan also have an innate ability to expel chakra from any of the tenketsu in their body."

Lady Tsunade summoned a messenger bird, attached a letter to it, and watched as it took flight toward the Hyuga Clan, initiating the process of seeking their assistance.

Sakura asked Lady Tsunade, "In your medical opinion, do you believe this will be successful?" With a warm smile, Lady Tsunade responded, "Here in Konoha, anything is possible. I've learned that over a lifetime of living here." She then handed Sakura a map outlining the way to the Hyuga Clan, neatly drawn on paper. Sakura was pleasantly surprised that the clan's location was just a short distance from where she stood.

Curious about the situation with her friends and their Sasuke recovery mission, Sakura asked, "When do you anticipate everyone will return from the Sasuke recovery mission?" Tsunade sighed, her gaze drifting out the window. She replied, "I can't say for certain. But for now, focus on your journey to the Hyuga Clan. I will notify you once they've returned."

Sakura nodded in understanding and took her leave from the Hokage's office. As she walked through the bustling streets of Konoha, she couldn't help but notice the curious stares from the locals drawn to her attire from the Hidden Sand.

Upon reaching the gates to the Hyuga Clan, she spotted a figure standing there, accompanied by attendants or family members. This man possessed long, jet-black hair and featureless white eyes, characteristics shared by all members of his clan. He typically wore traditional, loose-fitting robes with long-sleeved, brown hair.

With a courteous tone, he greeted her, saying, "Greetings, young Princess of Sunagakure. I am delighted to make your acquaintance. I am Lord Hisashi Hyuga. Please, come inside so that we may converse." Sakura entered through the clan's magnificent gates, finding herself in a spacious and beautifully appointed living area. She settled onto a couch, ready to begin their discussion.

Sakura once again shared her heartfelt story with him, her desperation palpable. He was her final hope in achieving her dream of becoming a Shinobi. Hisashi, his eyes filled with curiosity, inquired, "Why do you harbor such an intense desire to become a Shinobi?" Sakura replied with determination, "I yearn to be a Shinobi so that I can safeguard my village and the people who hold a special place in my heart. The Kazekage family has always been there for me when I needed them, and I want to repay their kindness by offering the same level of care and protection."

Hisashi was deeply moved by Sakura's words, his head nodding in understanding. He assured her, "I will assist you, but first, we must go to the Konoha hospital." Sakura readily agreed and followed him to the bustling Konoha hospital. Although the facility was bustling with people recovering from near-fatal injuries, there was no sign of the Kazekage siblings. Hisashi arranged for Sakura to change into pristine white hospital robes before leading her to an examination room.

Lying on the bed, Sakura glanced up at Hisashi, who was donned in his own medical white robes, the hint of a smile evident beneath his mask. He asked, "How are you feeling, Sakura?" Sakura admitted, "I'm nervous." With a reassuring tone, Hisashi responded, "It's natural to feel that way, but there's nothing to fear. I'll be using my chakra to gradually unblock your chakra pathways. However, I'll need to place you under a sleeping jutsu because the process can be quite painful."

Sakura nodded, seeking to understand, and asked, "Could you explain exactly what you'll be doing?" Hisashi began to clarify, "The chakra pathway system is intricately interwoven within the body, serving as the conduit for chakra throughout the entire system, much like the circulatory system for blood. This network also plays a role in chakra production, drawing physical energy from every cell and protein in the body, which is then refined into chakra by various organs, notably the heart. When a technique disrupts or severs the chakra flow to a specific body section, that part loses the ability to release chakra from any of its tenketsu."

Sakura, comforted by the explanation, wore a smile as she remarked, "So I'll be all right, in other words." Hisashi nodded affirmingly, signaling the Medical Shinobi team to initiate the procedure. Lady Tsunade entered the room as they administered the sleeping jutsu, her presence comforting. She approached Sakura, who was slipping into slumber, and conveyed, "While the mission didn't go precisely as planned, the Kazekage siblings are in good health and currently en route to Konoha."

Sakura, her eyes growing heavy with sleep, offered a heartfelt "Thank you..." before succumbing to the slumber induced by the procedure.

In the bustling halls of Konoha's hospital, Sakura gradually fluttered her eyes open. The vibrant activity sounds and the siblings' animated conversation filled the room. Temari's joyful gasp and radiant smile welcomed Sakura's return to consciousness. She exclaimed, "Sakura, you're awake! How are you feeling? I'm sure you're already starting to feel stronger!"

Feeling the comforting presence of someone nearby, Sakura mustered the strength to raise her head and met Gaara's concerned gaze. Despite her limited energy, she offered him a warm smile. Gaara, always reserved with his emotions, softly stated, "We should let her rest, Temari. She's tired."

Ignoring her brother's suggestion, Temari continued to share the news with Sakura. "Gaara was so worried about you that he rushed in here to make sure you were alright," she proclaimed.

Gaara, his face subtly flushing, chided his sister, "Stop exaggerating."

Feeling an overwhelming surge of affection for Gaara, Sakura gave him a tight, grateful squeeze, cherishing his endearing awkwardness.

Hisashi, the medical professional attending to Sakura, entered the room. He checked her vital signs and nodded approvingly, signaling to the nurses that Sakura was ready to leave the hospital. Addressing the group, Hisashi delivered essential instructions. "She can be discharged now, but she must take it easy for the next week to prevent her chakra from blocking itself permanently this time."

The siblings concurred with Hisashi's advice, understanding the significance of Sakura's recovery. With Gaara's sand gently cradling her, they ensured Sakura didn't exert herself as they prepared to depart. As she lay on the bed of sand, being walked out of the room, Gaara shared captivating stories with her. He recounted his heroics in saving the Konoha Genin from a formidable adversary, expressing admiration for their strength, albeit acknowledging the unfortunate circumstance of their brainwashing under Orochimaru's influence. Sakura listened with rapt attention, filled with immense pride for Gaara's courage and grateful for their deepening bond.

The siblings embarked on their journey back to Sunagakure, where Sakura would have the opportunity to rest and prepare herself for becoming a Shinobi when she was ready.

One morning, with Temari's gentle assistance, Sakura descended the staircase and sat alongside Granny Chiyo and her brothers in the dining room. Kankuro, a furrow on his brow, expressed his concern, "Temari, what's the rush? She shouldn't be out of bed."

Gaara added, "It hasn't even been a full week yet."

However, Granny Chiyo chimed in with a reassuring smile, "No, it's alright. She should be fine as long as she moves slowly and gradually. In just a few more days, she'll be fully recovered." Kankuro, yielding to Granny Chiyo's wisdom, shrugged and allowed her to continue the conversation they had been engaged in.

Feeling a burgeoning curiosity about the future plans for Sunagakure, Sakura seized the opportunity to inquire further.

"This is going to be a challenging year for the three of you, understand?" Granny Chiyo began, her tone firm. "You will each need to prove yourselves individually to advance your ranks. That means you'll have the opportunity to compete against each other. Sakura, you can stay here and spend some time with me to figure out your role in the coming years while they travel across the continent, sharpening their skills."

"Alright," Sakura agreed.

For six long months, Sakura bid farewell to the Kazekage siblings. This parting didn't weigh heavily on her; she recognized it as the perfect opportunity to hone her newfound Shinobi skills. During this time, Granny Chiyo paid her a visit and presented her with a thoughtful gift—an exquisite white shamisen that had once belonged to her mother. With this precious heirloom, Sakura was determined to harness her power and become a formidable Shinobi in the Land of Wind.