Unsatisfied(A Naruto Shippuden Story/Fanfiction)

The smoke has cleared, the dead are back to life thanks to Nagato, and a new dawn breaks over Konoha. Naruto Uzumaki, the once-ostracized prankster, stands bathed in the jubilant cheers of the villagers he just saved. They hoist him high, a sea of smiles and gratitude, celebrating his incredible victory over Pain. He made Kakashi-sensei proud, he made Iruka-sensei weep with joy, and he is, finally, their undisputed hero.

Yet, as the shouts of "Naruto! Naruto! Naruto!" ring in his ears, a strange, cold knot tightens in his gut. He maintains a bright, unwavering smile, waving and laughing, but inside, a dissonant chord is struck.

"Why... why do I feel like this?" he thinks, the volume of the cheers making his internal voice echo.

"...I did it. I saved everyone. They're happy. I should be happy. "

"This is everything I ever wanted, isn't it? The cheering... the recognition... I've waited for this my whole life."

"So why does it taste like garbage dattebayo?....."

"Why do I feel so... UNSATISFIED?"

(Strictly Naruto x Hinata)

(Note: A different take on Naruto's reaction for being celebrated as a hero after he saves the Konoha from Pain.)