Searching For Light (Naruto)

The Third Memory

Kankuro's POV

The girl that apparently attacked Ruri didn't make it too far. Baki, Sasuke, Neji, and I were easily able to take her down. She'll most likely have to deal with the authorities in the Land of Iron. I mean, attacking the Kazekage's daughter isn't something that's forgiveable.

We were back in the inn, I sat behind the counter in the kitchen, a soda sitting in front of me. Baki was in his room doing who knows what. And Gaara and Ruri haven't returned yet. Neji comfirmed with his Byakugan that they were okay and will return not too long after us, but what if they got themselves into some other kind of troubles?

I know I shouldn't really be too worried considering Gaara is still a Kage, and one of the most powerful shinobi known, but no matter how old, he's still my little brother. And eventhough she hates the fact, or even just the mere thought of it, Ruri is still my niece. So, I can't help but be concerned.

I felt relief wash over me when the door knob began to turn. Their chakra made it evident that it was them. When the door finally opened, then closed and locked, Gaara's green eyes stared at me.
He held Ruri closely to his chest, her   arms tightly wrapped around his neck, and her head leaned against the side of his.

My brother's eyes were filled with solace, calming my stress. Yet they were still slightly alarmed, as if the whole way back he was constantly making sure there was no more danger surrounding them. The little girl in his arms had a low supply of chakra, and was unconscious. My fist clenched in anger as I saw the state she was left in.

"Ga-" The red-head gave me a look that said he will explain later. I nodded, and he walked into the hallway, and it didn't take long for me to no longer be able to see them since the lights were all off.

I sighed, taking a sip of my soda. At the taste of it I made a face and read the label.... Gross, it's diet....

********

Gaara's POV

I entered Ruri's room, gingerly placing the girl on her bed. The whole way back, right when we were away from where we came across  Nozomi, she was silent. It was like some small part inside of her suddenly just went missing.

She took my hand, and now I'm all she's got when it comes to trust. I can't fail her, because I wouldn't be able to  forgive myself if I ever let her down.

She opened her eyes slightly, looking up at me and her fist tightened. I hated the feeling I got when I saw her glassy eyes. I knew why.... Who ever the person that Nozomi guy said was dead.... They had to be someone that was really important to her.

Ruri then turned away from me, facing the wall and curling up into a ball. It was then I realized she was no longer able to be the strong, emotionless adult she forced herself to be. She was exhausted, her eyes could no longer be like solid, dry rocks. The piece that was taken from her left a break, and the dam could no long stay strong.

Her whole body shook, and I could barely see the tears streaming down her cheeks and onto the sheets. I couldn't help but feels so useless, this was something that I wasn't able to protect her from. And that simple reality bothered me to no ends. I didn't want to leave her alone, so I sat down on the floor, leaning on the side of the bed. I tilted my head backwards, and just stayed there for her.

*********

I woke up, my head resting on top of the bed. Ruri was deeply asleep. I hardly ever slept, and the same went for Ruri. I guess the other pressence of eachother assured us. Because as long as she was okay I was at ease. And she was at peace knowing I was there to keep her safe.