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People who are Important: Book One	By : Morales89 Category: Naruto > General Views: 1255 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 1
Disclaimer: Naruto is the property of Masashi Kishimoto and Tv tokyo. This is a purely fanwritten work, with which I make no money, and write only for the pleasure of myself and my readers.

Chapter List
- 19
- 20
- 21
Chapter 19

Gaara felt wet little kisses being lazily scattered on his shoulder through his state of meditation. Warm fingers traveled lightly over his body, wrapping themselves around his morning 'problem'. Teasingly, the fingers stayed light, just barely grazing the sensitive vein on the underside of his length. Thumb just barely brushing the slit at the top of the head.
"Nnn…" he moaned quietly, opening his blackened lids to send a level stare down at the naked woman in his bed.
Her dark blue eyes stared back up at him with mischief and love swimming in their depths. She smiled at him, placing another soft kiss over his right pectoral. Her warm hand grasped him a little harder. Firmly stroking his hardened member from base to tip and down again.
"Sh-..ia.." he choked out, looking at the time and knowing he needed to start getting ready.
"It's okay Gaara-kun. I'll take care of it for you," she said, smiling adorably, and disappearing underneath the covers.
'Where is she…' (GASP!) Gaara's sea foam eyes snapped open in surprise as he felt himself surrounded by hot wetness. He felt something hot and slightly rough press firmly against the base of his cock and drag itself languidly up the underside. The redhead grasped the sheets, willing himself not to make any noises. It was morning, his siblings would be in the house somewhere. Thank Kami neither woke up so early.
"Gah!" he exclaimed, stuffing his fist into his mouth as a pair of soft lips wrapped themselves around the tip of his penis and sucked gently.
Shia's tongue swept over the head, dipping into the slit and dragging steadily over it. Gaara's breaths became ragged, as he fought to remain silent. She started to bob up and down, swirling her hot tongue over his shaft and sucking strongly on the head. Her talented fingers massaged his balls slowly, causing that almost familiar warmth to settle in his lower belly. His abdomen began to get tight, and then suddenly…a white hot surge of pleasure coursed through his entire body. He came violently into his new lover's mouth, biting into his knuckles almost hard enough to draw blood. He felt her lap up his essence, and pulled the covers away to see her smiling face.
"Is that better?" she asked, a little bit of cum dribbling down her chin. He reached out and wiped it away with his thumb.
"Hn…h..how?" he asked, wondering how she'd managed to get such an explosive orgasm out of him in such a short time. He may not know much about sex, but he could figure out that wasn't normal.
"I'm a medic," she giggled, "perfect chakra control," she finished, wiggling her fingers. He stared at her for a few seconds before what she was insinuating finally registered.
"Oh…" was all he could say, rising…naked…and walking across the room towards his shower. Shia enjoyed the view of his toned, naked backside before it disappeared behind the door, and the shower turned on.
Mission Neji/Tenten
Neji stepped out of the shower of the room as quietly as he could, fastening a towel around his waist. He spared a glance over at the sleeping form of his female teammate. They'd completed the mission, pretty well too he'd like to say. He was happy to see that over the past few days, Tenten seemed to have gotten over her incident with their target. She was a strong girl.
He pulled on his clothes silently, not taking his eyes off the sleeping brunette. Her face was set in a peaceful smile, and her hair was spread around her, mussed from sleep. He'd awoken with her cuddled warmly against his chest. At first he was a little confused, but then he remembered the night before. She'd asked him to stay with her until she fell asleep. Only…he'd stayed all night on accident. 'Well…she doesn't have to know. I don't want to be on the receiving end of Tenten's anger,' he thought briefly. He shuddered at the thought of a thousand kunai being launched at him from one of those scrolls of hers.
"Mnmm…Neji?" he heard a sleepy voice say from the bed.
He was currently wringing the water out of his long hair, and tying it back in the loose ponytail he always wore. Tenten crawled out of the bed sleepily, and trudged over to her bag. Her sleep messed hair hung in disarray around her pretty face as she leaned over to search through it. After digging around and finding her clothes, she turned towards him.
"Gomenasai…I didn't realize how late it was," she said groggily, causing the raven's lips to twitch up in an amused smirk.
"It's fine," he said, and she smiled lazily before closing the bathroom door behind her.
Sabaku Residence
The Godaime Kazekage emerged from his shower to find Shia gone, and a little piece of paper placed on his freshly changed, made bed. He wrapped the towel around his waist securely and went searching through his drawers for clothing. After pulling on a pair of boxers, his tight fighting apparel, and throwing on his Kage robes, he looked down at the note.
… … … … … … … … … … … … …
'Gaara-kun,
I went to make breakfast. I think it'd be a little suspicious if your siblings caught me in your room without clothes on. I'm not sure if you want them to know yet, so I went back to my room to shower and change. When you finish reading this I'll probably be in the kitchen. See you in a few minutes,
Love, Shia'
… … … … … … … … … … … … …
The redhead felt himself smile slightly. She loved him…even if he wasn't ready to say the same to her yet. It felt good to know that there was someone out there who saw past everything and still loved him. He adjusted the uncomfortable robes while heading into the kitchen where Shia stood at the stove cooking eggs. The brunette turned and smiled, placing a plate in front of him and walking over to the screeching tea kettle.
"Your breakfast, Kazekage-sama," she said, placing a cup of tea in front of him and bowing with a cute smile on her face.
"It's okay if you don't call me that," he said quietly, she chuckled, sitting down with her own plate of food.
"I know, I just can't believe that you're Kazekage! I always knew you'd do great things," she said, smiling at him lovingly. Gaara found himself not wanting to see her leave for Konoha in the evening.
"Have you packed your things?" he asked, putting some food into his mouth. Her expression fell very slightly.
"Hai…do you want me out so quickly?" she joked half heartedly. He lifted an invisible brow at her.
"You know that's not true," he said simply, continuing his breakfast.
They ate in silence for a few moments. Each of them thinking of what had happened the previous night and that morning. Neither regretted it. It was an experience that Gaara had resigned himself to knowing he'd never have. Yet...he'd been wrong…she'd given him a precious gift. Something he would cherish. She'd chosen him to take her virginity, and knowing the kind of girl she was, that alone proved her claims of love for him. He really didn't want her to go. There was a knock on the door, but before either of them could stand, Temari walked into the room.
"I'll get it," she drawled, dragging her feet over to the door like a zombie. Both younger teens listened at the table intently.
"Temari-sama," they heard a man greet politely.
"What do you want?" Temari snapped at the Jounin in her doorway. He jumped a little, frightened by her tone, but quickly regained his composure.
"I've come for Akito Shia. She's needed at the hospital it's urgent!" he exclaimed. Shia stood, and strode to the door quickly with Gaara on her heals.
"Akito-sama…Kazekage-sama," the ninja said dipping his head in respect.
"Explain," Gaara ordered, the Jounin nodded.
"Hai Kazekage-sama! An old woman arrived late last night at the hospital in terrible condition. Our medics have done all they could, but they fear they can do nothing else. The Head Medic said to come find Akito-sama and bring her," the Jounin rattled off quickly.
Gaara turned his head to look at Shia who had already rushed out of the room to dress. She came flying back in wearing sweatpants and a t-shirt, with a white medical coat slung over her shoulder. She grabbed her bag and made it to the door in record time.
"Kazekage-sama, the Head Medic also told me to fetch you to discuss the foreigner. As the leader of the village you are entitled to meet with them all, however, the woman is too sick to leave the hospital," he said, and Gaara nodded. Temari wrote a quick note to Kankurou, and all three of them left for the hospital.
Hokage's Office
"Your report?" Tsunade said looking over Team Guy intently. Maito Guy stepped forward.
"My most prized student Lee and I have found out that Hoshigaki Kisame was considered the 'monster of Kirigakure' and was a renowned member of the Seven Swordsman. He's been with Uchiha Itachi in the Akatsuki for nearly ten years as his partner. Though Kisame is obviously the bigger of the two, the Uchiha is the leader of their two man team. His sword drains chakra, and he is very skilled in water type jutsu," the bowl haircut man explained, handing over his full report scroll.
"I see…and you two?" the Hokage said, turning her eyes on the two 'normal' members of Team Guy. Neji stepped forward.
"The Akatsuki member that was reported to be from Iwagakure remains anonymous. The Tsuchikage covered up his recruitment into the organization's ranks expertly by either silencing or killing all those who knew," he began, the Hokage nodded her head.
"However, Mr. Hokkaido, our target, did disclose to us that he was the last surviving member of his clan. An artist who made beautiful sculptures only to blow them to pieces within seconds. He was skilled with his bloodline, an assassin that left homes charred and in pieces along with the bodies of the deceased. Neji and I have concluded that he uses explosive attacks, though we cannot be sure how, or what he uses to do so," Tenten finished.
Neji moved forward to hand the report scroll to Tsunade. She set it next to the other one, and turned her eyes to the young man who'd given it to her. His pearly white eyes were focused on the brunette girl next to him who was babbling something about a job well done. The blond Hokage could see the tiniest of smiles on the usually stoic Hyuuga's face, while he pretended to be paying attention. Tenten's big brown eyes were warm with energy, happiness, and what Tsunade knew was love. 'Oh to be young and obliviously in love,' the older woman thought watching the cute little exchange. Her heart clenched at the memory of it. 'Dan...'
"It seems you completed the mission perfectly. Good job! You're dismissed until further notice," she said, waving a hand at them and looking down at the mound of paperwork that served as her activity for the day.
"Neji, Tenten! Do you want to come with Guy-sensei and I to run four celebratory laps around the village?" Lee asked. Neji's face became impassive, and Tenten smiled waving her hands furiously in the air.
"Oh no! We promised Hinata-chan we'd come by for tea when we returned from our mission," she lied expertly, "Isn't that right Neji?"
"Hai, Hinata-sama is expecting us," he answered, bowing to the Hokage and grabbing Tenten lightly by the wrist to drag her out before Lee suggested that he join them. 'To be young and in love indeed…' Tsunade thought.
Sunagakure Hospital
Gaara watched his lover flit around the room at an alarming pace. She rushed around taking vitals, temperature, checking the medical charts, mixing herbs and so on. The old woman in the bed was dying, and Shia was trying everything in her power to make sure she lived. He watched as she poured some kind of medicinal mixture down the elder's throat, then place her palms over the barely moving chest as they emitted their green healing energy. He'd never really watched her work like this. When the situation was life or death. He'd never seen Shia save a life, though he knew she'd saved his once. She was nothing short of amazing; shouting orders, hooking up machines, creating medicines in the blink of an eye. He marveled at her…she really had gotten much stronger. He couldn't take his eyes off of her. Well…she also looked really adorable in her little doctor coat. He pushed those thoughts away however. She was leaving today, he had to put up his guard. He had to become his usual impassive self, so it wouldn't hurt seeing her leave again. Finally, the old woman's heart beat returned to a normal pace, and her breathing evened out with the oxygen mask's help. Shia walked over looking morbid.
"I…I've done everything I can. She'll live one more day at most. The damage to her lungs is irreversible at this point. The illness…and her age…her body just doesn't have the strength to fight it off. I can't save her, and nor should I. It's her time," Shia said, looking over at her grandmother.
"She's an old woman Shia. I'm sure she'll go happily to her husband," Temari said trying to comfort her sad friend.
"I know. I just wonder…why? Why did she come here? She may have lived another week or so, but she traveled. She traveled knowing the effects it would have on her weakened body," Shia said, confused to hell. It was silent for a few moments.
"I have to go," Gaara announced, fastening his Kage hat over his red head and rising. Shia nodded.
"Me too unfortunately. I've got to get your things into the carriage and prepare for my mission over to Konohagakure. I'll be helping with some preparations for the Chuunin Exams this year, so I'll probably be there for a while. See you two later," Temari said, strolling out the door with a quick wave.
Shia turned to Gaara, who stood before her in all his Kage glory. This was her last day in Suna. She wanted so badly to grab him and hold him. Kiss him, make love to him over and over again like new lovers should. But…she was expected back in Konoha. With her grandmother's eminent death…she was expected to inherit the Clan. He was the Kazekage, the lives of the people in this village depended on him. He gave her a small nod before turning from her, but she shot out a hand to stop him.
The Kazekage froze when her small hand clasped onto his robes. Goodbye was going to be so much harder than he needed it to be. He turned to see sad deep blue eyes staring up at him. Her fist clenched the material of his robe, and she pulled herself into him. She wrapped her arms tightly around his waist and rested her face in the crook of his neck.
"I have to stay here with her. I..I will have to go home. I don't want to, but I have to protect my family. They need a strong leader, and I am all they have. Before you go off and close yourself up into your world of impassiveness. Before you go and force yourself into that cold personality that doesn't hurt when it's time to say goodbye. I want you to know that I love you. I'm going to fight Gaara, because no man could ever take your place. But…before I do that. Before I tell the Council no. I have to know you feel the same way. Think it over thoroughly. I'll be waiting for your decision in Konoha," She said, pulling away slightly and placing a kiss on his lips.
Then she left him in the doorway to contemplate her words. He watched her looking over the vitals again. She'd basically just told him that if he loved her, she'd leave the clan for him. If he decided that he was indeed in love with her…she would refuse her Clan's title as Leader. Love…was truly the most enigmatic emotion. Something that doesn't fade away, something that causes strange sensations to course through the body. Love was wonderful…yet painful at the same time.
'Is this love? Is this the feeling? Knowing that I will have to watch her walk away from me again after we've become so…close. It hurts, is it supposed to hurt? I need to talk to Temari,' Gaara thought walking towards the Kazekage tower. When he got in he immediately sent for his older sister, and waited.
Tenten's House
"I feel a little bad for blowing Lee off. I guess he missed us is all," Tenten said softly while pouring her raven haired companion tea.
"Iie….I don't think he minds. He's happy running laps with Guy-senpai right now. We'll catch up with him later," the Hyuuga replied, lifting the good homemade tea to his lips and taking a relishing sip.
"Hai! We should all eat out tonight with Hinata-chan's team. I'm sure that would make up for us ditching him today," the girl said, sipping at her own.
Neji looked at his teammate. She seemed genuinely worried that they'd hurt Lee's feelings. He knew better however. Lee was weird that way. To him, Maito Guy was a father figure… at the very least an older brother. Spending time alone with Guy made Lee happy. Despite his offer for them to join him, Neji knew he really wanted them to decline. Besides, the young green beast's affections for a certain pink haired Kunoichi were spiraling out of control. He needed advice from an adult, and despite how he may look on the outside, Maito Guy could be very wise at times.
"Ano…I'm worried Neji-kun," Tenten said. His white eyes shifted to her upon his hearing the affectionate suffix again. She'd been using it a lot lately…but…only when they were alone.
"Hn…?" he said, urging her to continue.
"Lee…he…I really think he may be falling for Sakura-chan," she explained, surprising him. 'Do we really think that much alike?' he thought.
"Hn…" he said, sipping his tea again.
"I…Lee may be irritating at times, and he may be a complete Baka a lot, but…he's still our friend. I don't want him to get hurt," she said, her tone laced in concern.
Neji was silent for a few moments. He felt the same. Lee was getting himself into a tough spot falling in love with the Hokage's apprentice. She was in love with the Uchiha traitor. Hopelessly so…though…she'd loved him a long time from what he'd heard. The Hyuuga figured feelings of that magnitude couldn't possibly be ignored so easily. However, the Uchiha left her…he left her for power, and Lee was right here…ready to pick up the pieces. He hoped she could see that soon.
The Uchiha was not coming back anytime soon, and when he did, he faced the wrath of Morino Ibiki. And…most likely…death. Tsunade would not be easy on him because he's the last Uchiha. Most likely she'll have him breed, and then hang him for his betrayal of Konoha. After the pain he put Sakura through, and the pain he put Naruto through, two people that Neji knew the Hokage viewed as childlike figures, Sasuke would not get any mercy. Tenten's voice snapped him out of his thoughts.
"I can't be angry with Sakura-chan for it," she began, "I don't know if I could be so strong if I was in her situation." she paused.
Her warm brown eyes looked over at him and locked with his own pearly ones. There was something very strong behind those brown eyes. They looked so sad, worried, confused…and afraid. He wanted to reach out and tell her everything would be okay. He wanted to take her into his arms and console her…because…sorrow didn't suit her. But…he held himself still, only nodding his agreement. Tenten was really a compassionate person, despite her tomboyish attitude and sometimes violent nature.
"She's in so much pain right now, and the only one who can save her…just doesn't seem to care. I don't understand how you can do that to a person," Tenten said angrily.
"You know…she tried to stop him. She offered him everything, told him she loved him, and it wasn't enough. The bastard!" she growled, getting furious. Neji reached out a hand and placed it over her wrist. She seemed to calm instantly, looking at him through wide brown eyes.
"I know it frustrates you, but all you can do for your friend is be there for her. This is something that Sakura-san has to figure out on her own. There's nothing we can do. As for Lee…I know that Guy-senpai will guide him in the right direction with his feelings. All we can do is sit back, and support him," the Hyuuga explained.
Tenten considered his words carefully. He was right. It pained her to see Sakura hurting, and know there was nothing she could do. She wasn't frustrated with Sakura per say…Kami knows if it were her. If it were Neji that had left her in search of power. If he had walked away from her after she'd offered him her heart, like it meant nothing…she wasn't so sure she'd be holding up as well. All the brunette could do was watch from the sidelines, and try to guide her younger friend to the right path.
As for Lee, she feared he may actually be in love with the cherry blossom. The thought scared her, because she knew, that no matter how much Sakura grew to love Lee, she'd never be able to commit her heart to him. Sakura's heart would forever belong to Sasuke. Perhaps the younger Kunoichi already knew that, and that's why she'd denied all Lee's advances. Sakura knew Lee was a good guy. Perhaps she thought he deserved more than she could offer.
"Hai…" she said softly, sipping her tea again.
Neji's hand remained over her wrist emitting a comforting warmth. They fell into an easy silence; both thinking about their conversation. Tenten let her eyes fall on her gorgeous partner. It never ceased to amaze her, how utterly beautiful he was. Long raven hair cascaded over broad shoulders, and his piercing moonlike eyes seemed to see straight into her soul. She reached out, letting some of the silken raven hair that had strayed from his ponytail slide through her fingers. It was just as she'd thought it would be; soft and smooth. She wanted to just sit there and run her fingers through it all day.
"Tenten…" she heard, and she turned her brown eyes to lock with intense opal.
"Neji-kun…" she said softly, hoping she wasn't imagining the flash of those almost lavender tinted eyes.
"Can I…would you let your hair loose?" she asked, barely suppressing a blush.
The Hyuuga sent her a confused look, but reached behind him to pull the hair tie loose anyway. Tenten moved behind him, and dragged her fingers from scalp to end of the mass of obsidian satin. She threaded through it slowly, wanting to bury her face in its velvety texture and breath in his masculine scent. The brunette girl slid a little closer to his back, parting her knees to rest on either side of his waist. She vaguely registered that the inside of her thighs were gently pressed against his strong legs.
Neji felt himself relax against her, unbeknownst to most, he loved it when people played with his hair. His back came in contact with her chest, and he closed his pearly eyes to revel in the feel of her fingers combing through his long locks. He didn't speak. He didn't want to ruin this moment. It was so intimate…and sweet. He wanted to pull her down and kiss her, but he restrained his teenage hormones. Yes, Hyuuga Neji had hormones folks, he was a sixteen year old boy after all.
"Neji-kun…." he heard her sigh, and her soft lips came in contact with his temple.
He stayed still, not wanting to break whatever trance Tenten might be in. Ever since their mission they'd shared a few caring caresses. They'd kissed, briefly….but hadn't talked of it at all. He would allow her freedom for now. The Hyuuga wanted to see just what the girl would do as long as he allowed it. Her smooth hands shyly traced the contours of his face. Warm fingers traced over his eyes, nose, cheekbones, and slightly parted lips.
Soft lips came in contact with the top of his head, and he felt her fingers loosening the tie of his forehead protector. Neji almost pulled away, ashamed of the cursed mark underneath. Tenten didn't allow him that freedom however, as she placed a warm, moist kiss over the X of his branch mark. It was such a tender gesture. So affectionate, he felt his heart well up, but held himself still. Gentle kisses fell over his closed lids, and he felt her pressure him to turn in her arms slightly. Finally, he opened his eyes. Moonlike orbs held warm chocolate for a few seconds. He could hold back no longer.
Tenten's eyes slid closed as Neji leaned in. This was the moment she'd been daydreaming about since she'd first laid eyes on him. She felt his lips meet hers firmly, confidently…just like everything else he ever did. She responded by snaking her arms around his neck, and pressing herself flush against him. His arms came to rest around her slim waist, one sliding up her back to cup the back of her head as he opened his mouth over hers. She let his tongue slide into her mouth, and melted completely.
"Neji.." she murmured, "I love you…"
Sunagakure Hospital
"Baasan excuse me for my rudeness, demo…WHAT IN THE BLOODY HELL WERE YOU THINKING COMING HERE IN THAT CONDITION?" Akito Shia screamed at the frail old woman in the bed. Said elder just chuckled quietly while nurses and doctors scurried for cover.
"Shia…I was told by the clan medic I'd only last another day or so, but I fought hard to make it here, and here I am," she said quietly. Tears came into her granddaughter's eyes.
"But Baasan…you should've stayed home. You should've waited for me," the brunette said softly.
A sad smile came to her grandmother's face. It was a smile Shia knew all too well. She'd seen it on her dying mother's face years ago on that night she'd lost her parents. It was the smile of a woman who knew she was about to die.
"Shia…I wouldn't have been strong enough by the time you got home. I came here by carriage with desert horses. I knew that it would make my condition worse but I also knew you had the skill to keep me alive long enough to test you," the old woman explained. Shia's eyes widened.
"You know…you look more and more like your mother every time I see you," the elder added, and her granddaughter smiled sadly.
"Baasan, does this mean..?"
"Hai, help me out of here. Your Inheritance Test starts in a half hour," the elder said. Shia stood stunned for a moment, and turned on her heal to shout orders out the door.
"Get a wheelchair and a decent medic in here now!"she yelled.
Training Field 1
"Alright Shia, part one…our signature Akito Clan fire jutsu," her grandmother called from across the field.
A small crowd had formed around the training field. Villagers craned their necks to see what this foreign ninja was about to do. Shia stood still, closing her eyes and raising her energy. She wore her flame retardant suit and gloves, hands clasped together as she began to mold her chakra. She fluctuated the temperature experimentally, warming up her chakra control abilities before she'd actually start the jutsu.
Temari and Kankurou saw a rather large crowd of villagers pooled around the training fields. They exchanged confused looks, and both turned to their younger brother whom decided to spend his lunch hour with them. The redhead looked vaguely interested in what was going on over there, and both siblings silently rejoiced when he altered his course to make his way to the crowd.
Gaara could feel a familiar chakra signature fluctuating rapidly in exercise. He wondered what she was doing out here. People moved immediately upon seeing him, whispering greetings and "Kazekage-sama's" as he passed. When he finally made it to the front of the crowd, he saw Shia, standing in her tight fighting outfit, and concentrating hard on her chakra. After glancing around he caught sight of the Akito elder who was supposed to be in the hospital, and that's when it hit him. This could only be one thing. The Clan Elder was only to live for a few more hours. Shia was being tested.
Shia felt the familiar auras of the Sand Siblings from in front of her and smiled. After cooling her chakra one last time she began the difficult series of hand signs. As she did this she gradually increased the temperature of her chakra. She increased the speed of her signs, her body grew hotter and hotter. Finally, she felt herself on the brink of her tolorance of heat. At 400 degrees celcius (752 f) she released her chakra from every point in her body.
"Odori no hinote(dance of flames)!" she cried out, fire bursting from her slim form and flailing wildly around her.
The crowd gasped, and grew silent as they watched. Flames engulfed the young woman's entire body as she gracefully wove her hands above her like a gypsy. Her body curled and rolled rhythmically without music, as the flames obeyed her every command. When her hand flew back, the flames shot in an arc above her head. She rolled her abdomen from her hips to her shoulders, arching back and throwing a leg in the air in front of her.
The flames caressed her body, almost lovingly, and she twirled, throwing both hands out to the side, sending the flames flying towards the walls of the neighboring buildings. With a curl of her hands she kept the fire from devouring said buildings. Finally she spun around, her arms following in graceful lines behind her and crossing into her chest as the fire died out. She stayed still for a few moments, gaining her breath. When she stood she turned to her proud looking grandmother.
"As expected," the old woman smiled. Shia chuckled turning to the cheering crowd. It seemed to have gotten bigger and she felt herself flush.
"Ano…Baasan? What's next?" she asked, eyes settling on the young redheaded Kazekage in the front of the crowd. He stared back at her evenly, though she could detect a bit of pride in those intense aqua eyes.
"You have to pass the medical test. It won't be easy. I've chosen a very difficult patient for you, but I think that you can handle it," her grandmother said. Shia nodded, and the crowd began to dissipate, realizing that there'd be no more show for today.
"If you three want to watch we'll be in the Trauma Unit of the Hospital," the old woman said, breaking into a coughing fit. Shia rushed to her side, patting her on the back and filtering some healing chakra into her system. 'You'll make a fine Head of the family Shia,' the old woman thought. The younger grasped the handles on the chair only to find a tan hand come in contact with hers. She looked up to see Temari's smiling green eyes.
"I'll take her back if you want. I wanna talk to her a bit anyway," the blond said, and after a short, confused pause, Shia nodded.
She watched as Temari and Kankurou walked away with her grandmother. She strode forward only to have her wrist grabbed, and be pressed against something hard and warm. Sand swirled around her. She looked up into the eyes of Sabaku no Gaara. They stared at each other in the midst of the whirlwind of sand he'd created for a few moments. His pale hand came to rest on her cheek, she leaned into his touch. The brunette closed her eyes and placed a kiss against his wrist. This was it. She would be inheriting the clan in a manner of hours. Gaara knew she'd pass. She would return to Konoha to fulfill her duty to her family.
Everything he wanted to say to her, all the emotions he felt swirled confusingly inside of him. He couldn't….he couldn't bring himself to say any of it. Their lives were going down two separate paths. He didn't want to burden her…he wanted her to be happy. She would be a good leader for her Clan. To tell her…that…he loved her would only make things harder on them both. Especially since he wasn't even sure if it was true yet. He almost didn't want to know. Temari had explained to him that the feelings he was experiencing were indeed associated with love, even if he had refused to disclose any real details pertaining to the reason he was feeling them. He almost wanted to deny that, just to spare Shia the pain of having to choose. They could not be together…how would that work? She shouldn't have to make that choice. Him or her family? It was just unfair.
So he leaned down, and took her lips under his softly. She reacted immediately, weaving her arms around his neck, and tangling her fingers in his soft red locks. Gaara wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her closer. Shia's warmth surrounded him, her scent filled his nose, and the love radiating off of her made his heart pound. His body was aching for her to stay with him. In his mind, he felt Shukaku raging about all of his confusion. No…he would definitely think about this. How could he pass a woman who so freely gave him her heart?
"I'll see you at the gates…" he said, squeezing her one last time and stepping away from her.
"Hai…" she answered in a soft voice, and he disappeared in a whirlwind of sand. She glanced around. 'Sunagakure Trauma Unit' the door said, so she pushed it open to find her grandmother, Kankurou, and Temari waiting for her at some patient's bed.
"This is the one Shia," the old woman said.
Shia walked over to the bed, glancing at both elder sand sibling's faces. Both looked morbid. The brunette looked into the bed to see a small child in very sad condition. She could be no older than five or six and was covered from the neck down in disfiguring burns. Her breaths came in weak shuddering rasps. Just by looking at her Shia could tell that the little girl's lungs were severely damaged, and with that she could have some brain damage due to lack of oxygen.
"My mission?" Shia asked, turning to the old woman in the wheelchair. Her grandmother smirked up at her.
"Heal this child's burns, lungs, and brain tissue so that she can live as normal life as possible," the woman said, and her brunette granddaughter turned back to the bed.
This was going to be a difficult task. She began the analysis immediately. The girl's pulse was steady, if a little weak. Her lungs sounded raspy, even without a stethoscope. Shia opened her eyes, to shine a light. The pupils dilated, letting her know that the child's sight was fine. Quickly the young medic went about the normal reflex tests, content to see that there was only a slight reaction time problem. The damage to the girl's brain was not severe, and Shia knew she could heal it easily. For this reason, she started with a chakra infused hand, at the sleeping child's temples. She focused on reconnecting the nerves, rearranging the slightly astray electric signals back on course, and healing the damaged tissue to its original strength.
"I need bandages, a scalpal, the ointment in my bag, and these medicinal herbs," Shia ordered, scribbling down the plant names, and handing it to Temari.
The blond nodded and rushed off. Kankurou went off to her bag, while her grandmother handed her a scalpel. She continued working on the damaged brain tissue. The chakra leaked at a steady pace from her hand reconnecting, and livening the dying tissue. Finally she felt the neuro-cells reacting, stimulated and lastly…multiplying. There were a few twitches in the girl's body, showing the return to normalcy in her nervous system. Shia, content with her neuro-healing, backed away to examine the burns.
They were severe, and numerous. Charred wounds lined the young girl's body almost from her head to her toes. 'Alright….burns are the hardest thing to heal other than spinal chord injuries. This will take a lot of chakra, and a lot of time. If I scrape the burnt skin off, though harsh as skinning a person may seem, I know I can regenerate the skin cells, and the burns will be gone. I'll need to numb her, and put her into complete unconciousness. I have about three fourths of my chakra left, so I'll have to do this slowly, and pace my chakra use in a timely fashion. I also have to remember to save some chakra in the end to heal her lungs. I can do this…' Shia thought.
"Alright…I need a needle, the blue vial in my bag, and an anesthesia mask," she said.
The make-shift helper rushed to find said objects while Shia fitted the anesthesia mask her grandmother handed to her over the girl's small face. She was careful not to use too much. The girl was small, too much of this could most definitely cause damage. She dipped the needle, handed to her by Kankurou, in some rubbing alcohol to clean it and stuck it into the blue vial full of numbing medication. Gently she lifted a charred arm off the hospital bed, piercing it with the needle, and allowing the medication to flow into the girl's veins. After finishing, she placed the needle back in the rubbing alcohol and turned towards her audience. Temari had placed the herbs down on the counter.
"This part is going to be hard to watch. I'm going to have to basically skin her little by little. I suggest you both leave," she said quietly. The two sand shinobi looked confused and slightly disgusted.
"Skin her?" Kankurou asked, face looking a little green.
"Hai…this skin is burned beyond repair. I can not heal this. I don't even think Tsunade-sama could heal this. The best decision I can make in this situation is to rid her of the damaged skin, and regenerate new cells to replace it," Shia explained. Temari stepped forward, grabbing her brother by the arm.
"Be careful, that sounds like it'll take a lot of chakra. Don't hurt yourself," the blond said. The younger girl nodded, and the eldest sand sibling dragged her younger brother out of the room.
"Baasan, how are you feeling?" Shia asked. The old woman nodded her head, signaling she was fine and told her to proceed. Shia took the scalpel in hand, pressing it against the charred skin. Slowly she carved the skin from the girl's shoulder, careful not to dig too deep. It would be a long, exhausting process, so she braced herself.
Tenten's House
Tenten and Neji lay on the roof of her house staring at the sunset. A few hours ago, she'd finally found the courage(between their kisses), to tell him how she truly felt. What she didn't expect was for him to return said feelings. Her mind was still reeling from the kiss they'd shared. Neji wanted to be with her, and visa versa. She just couldn't believe it.
"Tenten, Hinata-sama is waiting for us at the restaurant now," Neji said softly, not moving from their comfortable position. The brunette girl in his arms sighed softly.
"Hai…we should get going then Neji-kun," she said, but still neither moved. They were silent for a few more moments, both watching the last sun rays disappear beneath the horizon.
"I want to keep this quiet for a while Tenten," Neji said quietly, referring to their newly established relationship.
"Hai…I think that's a good idea. For Lee's sake. The last thing he needs to see is his two best friends happy and in love with his own love troubles," she said quietly, and the Hyuuga marveled at her ability to understand exactly what he was thinking at all times. Both teens rose and leaped off the roof to start their way to the Barbaque Restaruant.
Sunagakure Trauma Unit
Shia sighed down at her patient. It'd been hours, and the sun was gone from the desert, but…the child would live. The young medic tied the last of the bandages tight and stepped back to wipe her brow with a towel. She sighed loudly. It was done. She'd successfully disposed of the charred skin and regenerated cells for new skin. Though the little girl looked like a mummy right now, in about four months, she would have fresh, nearly scar free skin. The brain damage had been minimal, and easily healed.
The lungs, however, would always be slightly week, and the little girl would have to take medicine for it for the rest of her life. They'd been damaged for so long, it was impossible to heal them to complete normalcy. However…medication for weak lungs was better than death. This girl was not a shinobi so weak lungs, with the medication she'd be receiving, would not hinder her too badly. Shia walked over to the door and beckoned both the elder Sand Siblings in.
"Baasan, I have finished," Shia said quietly. The two other teens in the room looked at the bandaged girl, who despite her appearance, was breathing much easier, and seemed a little stronger.
"Well done my dear…cough…congratulations…pant…you've passed your inheritance test. cough cough" the old woman managed, slumping against the chair in her coughing fit. Shia rushed over, both Sand Siblings following suit and helping the Akito elder into the empty bed in the room.
"Rest Baasan. You've pushed yourself too hard as it is," the young girl said with tears in her eyes. The old woman smiled that hated smile again.
"I'm very proud of you Shia. wheeze You will be great," she said, eyes fluttering closed. Temari gasped.
"Don't worry, she's just asleep," she said, turning to them.
"Kankurou…let's leave her for now. You've got to go report to Gaara, and I have to finish getting everything ready for their departure," Temari said, and for once…her brunette brother just obeyed.
"Goodbye Baasan…I love you," she said, a sparkling tear making its lone path over her right cheek.
Those were the last words she would ever speak to her grandmother. Shia knew the old woman would not make it through the night. The brunette stared down at the woman who'd raised her. All the memories of her running through her mind. When her parents died. When she moved in with her grandparents. Her first successful medic-nin mission. Everything…the good and the bad.
She was no stranger to grief. Fate had taken so much from her already, and for some reason….it just seemed like…destiny wasn't through making her suffer. So many people she cared about were either gone, or in serious danger…her parents…her grandparents…Saindaime-sama. Naruto-kun from the Akatsuki. She didn't know what Uchiha Itachi wanted from the blond, but whatever it was it couldn't be good for Naruto. Even Sakura…one of her best friends…was in danger from herself. She would fight when she got to Konoha. She couldn't let fate take Gaara away from her. For once, she was going to fight for something that made HER happy. She looked back at her grandmother.
'It looks like we'll be here until morning Baasan. Though I know you won't wake when the sun rises. I have to go see Gaara, but I'll be back. I love him so much Baasan. Do you think I should go to him?' she asked in her mind, and as if she'd heard her the Akito elder's lips settled into a peaceful smile. 'Thank you…' Shia thought, rushing out of the door.
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People who are Important: Book One