Bonds

Understanding

"What kind of weird feeling?" Sakura asked as her eyes became fixed on the Uchiha in front of her. Both were taking a break from the tree climbing exercise.

"Sometimes when I talk to Naruto, or say we make unnecessary contact, I get this weird feeling in my gut, and it's really starting to piss me off." Sayu said as she massaged her temples. Sakura just giggled before she looked up at her.

"Oh, you obviously have a crush on him!"

*Present/Village Gates*

"About time, jeez, that was like forever!" Naruto yelled as he walked into the village. To put it simply, he was exhausted. For someone who's so mature, he doesn't seem like it sometimes. Kakashi thought to himself as he picked up the blonde by the back of his shirt.

"Alright, everyone's dismissed, except for you Naruto." Kakashi said as his gaze shifted to Zabuza and Haku. I forgot, since I'm the one who brought them back, I'm the one who's gonna be in charge of them. Shit. Naruto thought to himself as he got free of Kakashi's grip and stood in front of Kakashi.

Yay, now I can go check up on Kiba, I can't wait to see MY Kiba, SHANNARO! Sakura thought to herself.

Thank god, I really need some time to myself. I should probably change and then go on a walk; I just need some time with my thoughts. Sayu thought to herself as she walked away from the group.

"Alright, lets get going guys." Kakashi muttered lazily as he led the way to the Hokage tower.

*Hokage Estate*

"So, let me get this correct, after months of traveling and killing civilians and shinobi alike, you wish to join this village, because your friend here wishes to join Naruto?" Hiruzen asked as he looked at the four people in front of him.

"Yes. It's a long story, but to cut it short, Haku has been 'serving' me, not living out her life, so, now I want her to join this village, because she seems to trust blondie over there. I believe he can watch over her and help her find what she truly wants in life." Zabuza said as he dropped to a knee and bowed his head.

"You have a lot of trust in Naruto, don't you?" Hiruzen asked the bandaged shinobi.

"Yes, I do. If it helps, I don't have to join, only Haku can, and I can go elsewhere and continue to-" Zabuza started.

"No, if Haku's joining, you're joining too! Haku may not 'serve' you anymore, but she still cares about you Zabuza, plus you said you'd be training me, remember?" Naruto asked and smirked at the last comment.

"Enough, enough. Fine, both Haku and Zabuza are welcomed into this village. Haku, due to the report from Kakashi, you will be given chunnin rank, and will not have to participate in the exams. As for you Zabuza, the report here shows that you deserve jonin rank, so, it will be given to you. Naruto, due to the fact that you brought them here and have wanted them to join the village badly, I'll be expecting you to find them a good place to stay and pay for it." Hiruzen said before putting his pipe up to his lips.

"AND PAY?! Whatever." Naruto said before he signaled to the Zabuza and Haku for them to leave with him.

"Well, if that's all sir, I'll be going as well." Kakashi said before turning his back on the Hokage and started walking out the door.

"Wait Kakashi, there are a couple things I wish to discuss, about your team, and..."

"Naruto?" Kakashi said seeming to finish the Third's question. He received a head nod.

"First, your team. The chunnin exams are coming up, only a week and a half from today. I usually keep this until a week prior and bring in all sensei's, but this is different. Will you be sending your team to the chunnin exams?" Hiruzen asked as his gaze hardened into a stare.