Forged Beyond

I see we hit a nerve--

OMG OMG OMG 180 READS?!?!?!?!?! *passes out* THANKKK YOUUU!!! FOR THE READS, THE VOTES AND THE FOLLOWSSSSS AHHHHHHH!!!!!! *HAVING A HAPPINESS ATTACK*ANYWAY, I COULDNT WAIT TO WRITE THIS SOOO ENJOY!!!

I DONT OWN NARUTO

"That was so relaxing!!" Sakura stretched her arms wide, breathing in the cool night air. She was wearing a loose, light pink dress, much more casual than their usual training outfits. Her damp hair flowed freely, and the soft breeze played with it, letting it dry naturally. Her bangs framed her face perfectly, giving her a soft, relaxed look.

Sasuke, dressed in a simple navy blue t-shirt and beige shorts, walked beside her, stealing glances from the corner of his eye, though he kept his usual stoic expression. His hair was still slightly damp from the hot spring, dark strands brushing against his forehead. Naruto, of course, stood out in his bright orange t-shirt and navy blue shorts, walking with his usual energy as they made their way down the mountain. The hot springs had refreshed them all, and now they were heading back into town for dinner.

It was 9:30 PM, and the sun had long set. The town below them was glowing with night lights, lanterns hanging from the streets, casting a warm, welcoming glow. The sounds of distant laughter and clinking dishes from restaurants filled the air, adding to the cozy evening vibe.

As they walked, Sakura broke the comfortable silence. "Do you think anyone back in the village even noticed we're gone?" she asked, her voice curious but light. "I mean... I bet Ino is probably worried."

Naruto scratched the back of his head with a sheepish grin. "Ah, I'm sure Ino's just mad we didn't tell her, Or anyone considering that" He chuckled, though there was a tinge of guilt in his voice.

Sakura turned her head slightly, her gaze thoughtful. "What about Hinata? I bet she's worried too." She watched as Naruto's smile faltered just a bit. A pang of guilt flickered across his face at the mention of Hinata.

Naruto shrugged, his voice a little quieter now. "Hinata's probably fine..."

Sakura smirked, sensing the shift in his mood. "You should write her a letter when we get back to our room, Let her know you're alright."

Naruto blinked, startled by the suggestion. "A letter? Me? I-I don't know about that..."

Sasuke let out a quiet snort, half amused by Naruto's flustered response. "You should listen to her, dobe. She's right."

They continued chatting as they made their way into town, the bright lights of the streets guiding them toward their destination. The sushi restaurant came into view, its sign glowing softly in the night, and they could already smell the delicious food waiting inside.

Just as they were about to step through the door, Naruto froze. His sharp eyes caught a glimpse of something—or rather, someone—across the street. A tall man with wild white hair, dressed in a red coat and carrying an enormous scroll on his back

Naruto's face flushed with irritation, and he immediately pointed at the man, shouting, "YOU PERVERTED MAN!! I BET YOU FOLLOWED SAKURA-CHAN HERE!" His voice echoed through the street, drawing the attention of a few passersby.

Naruto wasn't done. "We saw you earlier at the hot springs too! Don't even try to deny it, you creep!"

Jiraiya, startled, waved his hands defensively, his face flushing with embarrassment. "W-Wait, no! It's not what you think it is!!" he stammered, backing up a little as Naruto and Sasuke stood their ground in front of Sakura.

"I swear, I'm not following anyone!" Jiraiya continued, clearly panicking under their accusing glares. "I was just... looking for someone! A lady—wait, no! That sounded wrong!" He slapped his forehead, realizing how bad it sounded. "I meant... my childhood friend! Yeah, that's it!"