Naruto Karyuden

Chapter 32: Hidden Sand Convergence VI

HIDDEN SAND CONVERGENCE VI

Despite saving the town and chasing away the being known as Hachiman, the group still was reprimanded. Endangering civilian lives, destruction of property, fighting within town premises. They were handed a hefty fine, which was slightly lessened for their assistance. Naruto and Hinata, and the Miyoshis were able to pay it off just fine, having the funds for it, although the Leaf shinobi would have this incident on their records. Guren and Gozu, on the other hand, are in a bit of a bind as they do not have the ability to pay.

On their way out of the building where they were reprimanded, Naruto makes an offer.

"We could pay it for ya, y'know."

"As if I'd take your money, you fool." Guren waves it off. "We got into this mess, we'll get out of it. Somehow."

Gozu nods. "We've already inconvenienced you enough."

"It was largely our fault, as well." Hinata looks apologetically. "We never noticed the Miyoshis tailing us."

"Of course not, we professionals." Seikai boasts. "Besides, you were acting kinda suspicious, hero. So we tailed you just in case."

Naruto grumbles.

"It's fine." Guren sighs. "We'll think of something."

"Although our lives won't be the same anymore." Gozu adds.

"We'll deal with that, too."

When they make their way outside, they don't get too far before they're stopped by a group of townsfolk. Guren and Gozu tense up. Their cover's blown. They've lost their home. Just as they'd finally settled down and started a life for themselves, just as they'd gotten comfortable. Should've known better.

One man takes a step forward and extends his hand, revealing a pouch.

Guren looks confused.

"We heard 'bout what happened. Heard you were in trouble, so we pitched in what we could."

Guren looks even more confused. "Wha-what're you talking about?"

A woman from the group answers. "You have a fine to pay, don't you? We just... wanted to help."

Everyone nods in agreement.

"But... you said you heard what happened. You know I've been lying to you all this time! We're wanted criminals!" She lowers her head, face hidden by her bangs. Her breath becomes shallow and she can feel her emotions overwhelm her.

"Maybe, but you're also our friends." Another woman speaks up. "You've helped us a lot these past months. Helped manage our lands, helped with our kids..."

"I'll be honest, we were scared when we first heard." A tall man steps up. "Was angry we were lied to, but... you've had your reasons for it, I'm sure, and you two've never wronged us. Then we remember how you've treated Yukimaru and that's not something you can fake easily. Figure... what's passed is past."

The man holding the pouch of money takes another step. "Please, take it."

Guren reaches over with her shaking hand, placing it over the pouch but not taking it yet.

"The shinobi've been talking lately. About bandits who just up and disappeared when they were nearby. That was you two, wasn't it? Keeping us safe."

Guren nods in response.

"Thank you." The man smiles.

Gozu comes by Guren's side and wraps an arm around her in a hug, his other hand clasping over Guren's as they take the pouch. "Thank you."