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Chapter Text

Sarada's life had become hell three years ago when Ada activated her power all over the world.

Sarada no longer felt like the village was her home, she felt like she didn't belong there, she didn't feel like her friends were really her friends, she didn't feel like her family was really her family, seeing the people she loves so much now makes her feel uncomfortable, being around them makes her feel like a complete stranger.

It's not that she has something wrong with her....

And that was the problem...

She was perfectly fine...

And they weren't...

She remembered everything perfectly, she knew the truth....

And they didn't...

They remembered things very differently from her and knew things completely different from her....

And it was all the fault of those two....

Kawaki and Ada...

The first few weeks after the incident it was torture, well, it was still torture, but at first it was very disconcerting and abominable to see how Mitsuki and her father, especially, despised, insulted and expressed themselves in such horrible ways of Boruto, as if he was the traitor, as if he was the one responsible for the apparent death of the Seventh and his wife.

But it wasn't just them doing that, it was everyone, and by everyone he means EVERYONE, not just the people in the leaf village, but the other people in the other villages as well, everyone believed in the "truth" told by Kawaki and Ada.

Everyone wanted Boruto dead...

Everyone but her...

That was a big problem for her for quite a while.

Being the only one in the whole village who sees things differently made her doubt her mental stability for a long time.

Mitsuki was one of the few people who made her feel like she had completely lost her mind.

She still remembered it well, they had just returned from the forest after Kawaki's chase in which magically everyone had turned against Boruto and once she was alone with Mitsuki she asked her the big question that wouldn't let her sleep if she didn't get it out of her system.

"-Why are you looking for Boruto? I don't understand, we were after Kawaki, why is everyone so weird all of a sudden, why does everyone suddenly want to kill Boruto?-"

"-What are you talking about?-"

"-Don't play games with me now Mitsuki and please answer me, what the hell is going on?-"

Mitsuki frowned as she saw that the Uchiha wasn't joking, she was seriously asking.

"-Boruto betrayed the village-"

What?

The black-haired woman froze in place without missing articulating a word or being able to do anything other than wonder in her head if she had actually heard correctly.

"-What did you say?-"

It was a joke wasn't it? It had to be a joke.

"-Boruto betrayed...-"

"-No.. This isn't right-" he clutched his head with both hands "-What's going on?-"

"-Sarada?-"

"-Boruto wouldn't do something like that-"

"-But... Sarada you saw it with your own eyes, he tried to kill you, he tried to kill Kawaki and he killed the seventh and his wife, we all saw it-"

"-No, that's not true, Boruto didn't-" he remembered everything that happened that day and nothing agreed with what Mitsuki said.

"-Sarada-" Mitsuki tried to touch her shoulder but Sarada pulled back before she could touch her.

"-You're kidding right?-" she refused to believe that what Mitsuki was telling her was true. She watched his face for a lie, but what she saw took her breath away.

The albino looked at her with strangeness and concern.

"-Sarada are you feeling alright?-" he approached, but she took a couple of steps away quickly and looked at him as if he had grown an extra head.

"-I'm perfectly fine, but you don't seem to be Mitsuki-" when he saw that the albino was going to try to approach him again, he stepped back further, to the boy's bewilderment.

"-Sarada.. You..-"

But the Uchiha didn't listen and quickly walked away from the place leaving behind a very confused and at the same time worried albino.

The Uchiha ran until she reached the village, she didn't stop even when she heard the voices of her friends calling her, all she wanted was to get to her house and lock herself in her room.

When she reached her house she found it empty, which was a great relief for her, since her parents would most likely want to talk about what just happened and she certainly didn't want to talk about that right now.

When she got to her room she threw herself on her bed and buried her face in the pillows trying to get out the frustration she was feeling.

Then something occurred to her.

She jumped out of bed and looked around her room until she found what she was looking for, and when she saw it she was even more confused.

Hours passed in which she was all alone in the house, until a couple of knocks sounded at her door.

"-Go ahead-" she murmured curled up on her bed.

Into her room came her father with an expression that generated a knot in her stomach, worry.

"-Mitsuki talked to me, he says you're not feeling well, that you're saying incongruities and you're not one to say incongruities? What's wrong?-"

"-Great, now he sees me as insane-" she covered her head with a pillow.

"-He doesn't see you as insane, he's just worried about you, he says he's never seen you so disoriented-"

He didn't answer.

"-Mitsuki didn't tell me exactly what had you uneasy but he did tell me it had to do with what just happened with Kawaki and Boruto-" the girl sat up in her bed and looked at her father intently.

Sarada seemed to calm down when she saw that her dad wasn't acting strange like the others and thought it would be a good idea to tell him what had her worried and confused but when she was about to do so she heard her father's next words that made her stop.

"-Do you want me to call Kawaki? He has always known how to calm you down...-"

Kawaki?

Why would Kawaki calm her down?

Unless...

"-No! I don't want him near me-" she saw how her father looked at her stunned by her behavior and panicked "-Just not now, okay? I want to be alone, I don't want anyone near me now... and.... that includes you... Dad...-" she now doubted that her father was okay and again considered that she was the one who lost her mind.

Sasuke looked at her not very convinced but decided to let it go.

"-Okay, then I'll give you your space-" Sasuke walked to the door of the room and before leaving he paused "-But I want you to know that what happened wasn't your fault, Kawaki doesn't blame you, there was no way to know that Boruto would do something like this and-"

"-You too...-" she sighed quietly afraid that her father would hear her and see her as crazy.

Great, now her dad was acting weird like everyone else too.

"-Excuse me?-"

"-It's nothing dad, just go away, leave me alone? Please...-" she didn't want to be around anyone right now, she just wanted to meditate on what was going on and know if it was really her losing her mind or was it everyone else who had lost their minds.

She didn't know what to believe.

Her father without further insistence left her alone and Sarada could finally breathe a little easier, to be honest, now she was afraid that her father or anyone else would find out about her growing 'Dementia'.

She couldn't let Kawaki and Ada find out what she thought she knew, she couldn't risk it, whether or not it was true what she thought was going on.

She pulled out from under her bed a box and from it she pulled out all the pictures that had been in her room during the time of the disaster; she had put them away as soon as she got home and saw what they probably represented.

He took between his trembling hands once again the albums, the photo frames of his team among other images of his life and looked at them one by one.

In all of them was him...

In all of them was Boruto...

The picture of team 7, there was Konohamaru, Mitsuki, Boruto and her. And there was no trace of Kawaki.

The graduation of the Academy, Boruto was in the middle of everyone and again, Kawaki was nowhere in sight.

She thoroughly checked every picture and video and in all of them was Boruto and in no picture was there any trace of Kawaki.

When he was sure his parents were completely asleep he sneaked out of his room, looked for some photo to compare and when he found it his head spun.

The photo that her family and the Uzumaki family had taken not too long ago.... The photo that belonged to her there was Boruto next to her, both of them in the middle of both families smiling at the camera, and again, there was Kawaki nowhere to be seen.

And then there was the photo that was of his mother, it was practically the same picture, there was just one small problem....

In that picture there was no Boruto anywhere, instead, next to her was Kawaki....

She dropped the picture and brought her hands to her mouth.

Suddenly she felt like throwing up.

She took both images and locked herself in her room again.

Days passed and everything got worse, she had become paranoid.

She stopped trusting even her own shadow, questioning if what she knew was the truth or if she was the one really affected. Whatever the answer she wouldn't trust her own judgment until she had hard evidence.

And yes, the photos and other things that gave her reason to believe she wasn't going crazy weren't to be trusted either.

One day she left home and headed to the training camp believing she could find peace and solace in a good workout, but she was wrong.

In front of her stood Mitsuki with a worryingly serious countenance. That's when Sarada became worried.

The Uchiha cursed herself in her mind that she hadn't put on something presentable, she hadn't seen herself in a mirror but she didn't need to in order to know that she looked horrible.

She had been crying, most likely she had dried tears all over her face and most likely her eyes were puffy and red and it wasn't because of her Dōjutsu.

Her clothes were dirty and disheveled, she had not changed clothes since the day of the incident and that was almost two weeks ago.

Her hair was greasy and disheveled from lack of a shower.

And her skin was so pale it could easily rival Inojin's, courtesy of the lack of food.

"-Sarada are you alright?-" on her friend's face there was concern but she couldn't trust that, she couldn't trust anything or anyone.

"-No...No Mitsuki I'm not well, and shall I tell you why? Because now it turns out that all the people I care about are after the one who might be the most important person in my damn life, so no, I'm not fine-"

"-Sarada-" Mitsuki tried to approach her but was stopped by the girl's scream.

"-Don't come near me!-" she shouted in desperation as she backed away.

"-What's the matter?-"

Both friends turned towards the new voice discovering ChōChō approaching them with clear confusion plastered on his face and his concern worsened when he saw Sarada's condition.

"-Sarada are you okay? You look awful-" her friend exclaimed with concern, until her head genus a great idea that lit up her face "-Do you want me to call Kawaki? He always-

"-No! I don't want to have him around, I don't even want to see him!-" shouted Sarada without measuring her words, until it was too late.

"-Wow! Why are you behaving like this? I thought you liked him...-"

"-What?!-" Sarada looked at ChōChō as if she had grown another head.

"-Oh Sarada, don't look at me like that, you were the one who told me that a couple of months ago during one of our sleepovers Are you forgetting? You confessed to me that you had been in love with Kawaki since you were little-"

Yes, she remembered that sleepover, and she remembered perfectly well confessing to ChōChō with a big blush on her face that she had been in love with Boruto since she was little.

Boruto, not Kawaki.

Since then her friends looked at her strangely, it was more than clear that ChōChō and Mitsuki had talked to her other friends about what had happened that time, and even if they hadn't said anything it was certain that her friends had noticed other things about her strange behavior.

For starters, realizing that she could not talk to any of them normally without feeling somehow excluded or uncomfortable, she began to move away and stopped talking to them, most of the time she spent in her room locked up without wanting to talk to anyone, not even with her parents, she stopped training, she did not leave her room at all since her room had its own bathroom and her mother seeing that she did not go out even to drink water she was the one who had to bring food and something to drink to her daughter to prevent her from dying.

In short Sarada was not well and everyone noticed it.

With each passing day, Sarada became more and more certain that what she believed had happened was real and not a figment of her imagination.

Months passed and there was no sign of Boruto and Sarada was falling into despair, although on one hand she was relieved that no one had found him, since everyone had the order to kill him if they ever found him, because he was considered a threat they could not send to catch him unless they were high ranking shinobi and even then it was declared that it would be safer and more convenient to shoot to kill.

It was months of constant anguish for Sarada and months without being able to rest.

It was not until a mission in a small town on the outskirts of the land of fire that something unexpected happened.

It was the first mission after months of inactivity since the incident and everyone seemed more cheerful about it, all except one person.

Sarada didn't seem happy or excited at all, she seemed more depressed than anything else, she kept her distance from everyone and didn't engage in any conversation. This worried her friends, so they tried to cheer her up in different ways all along the way and even during the mission, but just when it seemed like they were starting to cheer her up, she would walk away again as soon and as some comment about Boruto's "Traitor" or her "friendship" with Kawaki would come out.

Lately everything was like that, when she noticed that no one seemed to remember anything and that she couldn't participate in any conversation without seeming "normal", she decided that the best thing to do was to move away a little and isolate herself from everyone.

She couldn't bear to watch Boruto's life being stolen, it hurt her to her soul to see them get away with it.

She couldn't watch everyone breed hatred towards Boruto with each passing day.

She couldn't be around them anymore....

It wasn't her family or friends fault for not remembering or knowing the truth....

But, she couldn't help but think otherwise....

She hopelessly felt that they were betraying Boruto, regardless of what had actually happened, regardless of the brainwashing they had all suffered, regardless of whether they were unaware of what happened, she didn't care if they were guilty or not for losing their memory, she saw and felt them as traitors.

Everyone believed that Sarada's strange behavior was because she somehow believed she was responsible for what happened, but they couldn't have been more wrong.

Sarada was not at all comfortable when Boruto was talked about in that way, she felt out of place in those conversations, they made her feel like she didn't belong there.

She couldn't converse the same way with them anymore, she couldn't spend time with them without feeling like an intruder, she couldn't act naturally around all of them without feeling left out or like a complete stranger.

She simply couldn't act like Boruto was the worst scum in the world and a traitor when she knew exactly what had happened.

And they would never understand.

In Sarada's head there was everything but pleasant thoughts. She tried to keep her memory intact by making herself remember every moment she had spent with Boruto for fear of losing her memories like everyone else.

Sarada became very suspicious, not to mention she had been very paranoid for weeks, fearing even her own shadow. She hadn't mentioned to anyone else about what she knew, because she feared someone might hurt her for it.

Right now she was leaning against the roots of a tree far enough away from the house where she was staying with her friends so she wouldn't hear or see them. Everything was quiet and she thought she could get some sleep taking advantage of this little bit of peace she had for the first time in a long time. At times she began to remember what she had experienced with Boruto when they were children and wondered if he was well at the time.

She was pulled out of her thoughts by the voices of her friends who began to murmur behind her back thinking she didn't hear them.

It seemed as if they had not noticed her presence.

"-What if we get Kawaki to talk to her?-" Sarada tensed at hearing that.

"-Yes, that would certainly cheer her up as usual-"

"-I doubt it, haven't you noticed that Kawaki hasn't spoken to her either?-"

"-Have they fought again?-"

"-I wouldn't be too sure, you know, from one moment to another they always fight and argue, and a few minutes later they are as if nothing happened, but now they don't even look at each other, this must be more serious than we thought-" argued Shikadai making everyone agree with him.

"-But we don't lose anything by trying-"

"-Don't even try-" she decided to finally speak up not wanting his friends to do things behind her back.

"-Sarada! Since when are you there?-" they were surprised by her presence, it was clear that they didn't expect to find her there.

"-Since a while ago, and I heard them perfectly from beginning to end-"

"-Sarada, you have to understand that we are doing this for your own good and we are worried about you...-"

"-You have nothing to worry about-" she turned her back to them to hide the slight trembling of her lips.

"-But Sarada, you've been really weird lately-" Inojin said accusingly.

"-You never leave the house and when we went to visit you we found out that you didn't leave your room either-" exclaimed ChōChō distressed by her friend's state.

Sarada clenched her fists tightly trying to suppress the frustration she felt.

"-Sakura-San was very worried about you Sarada, besides, you've clearly been neglecting your health why, what's wrong Sarada?-" asked Mitsuki with concern, not only Kawaki had been doing it on the side, now Sarada was doing it too and that was hurting him a lot.

Sarada hearing Mitsuki's distress had an immense urge to scream and seek comfort from her friend, to tell her everything she had been going through, but she couldn't, she couldn't trust Mitsuki either and that hurt her, so she just bit her lip to keep from sobbing.

"-It's true-" Sarada let out a sigh when Shikadai spoke "-You don't even train anymore, and that makes me think of many things, but none of those things we can help you with if you don't tell us what's going on or what you want-"

Sarada took a deep breath on the verge of collapse, she had to get out of there before she did something she would regret later.

"-I don't want you to worry about me, what I want is for you to leave me alone-" she didn't let them answer and ran off into the forest without caring about her friends' calls. The only thing he wanted was to get away from all that farce.

She didn't know how long she ran, she was only aware of the pain and heaviness in her legs that screamed for a rest along with the burning in her lungs that demanded oxygen.

She stopped near a stream to rest when she made sure she was far enough away from everyone so they couldn't find her.

Her breathing was agitated, her heartbeat was so strong and uncontrolled that she could hear it echoing against her ears, she felt dizzy from lack of air, her legs felt weak and heavy, it hurt just to move them, her mouth and throat were completely dry.

After a few minutes of trying to pull herself together, she could feel her lungs and throat burning from the effort of pulling in air, her mouth felt like dry land, and her legs gave way after a long time, causing her to fall to her knees by the water. With trembling hands she scooped up some water and brought it to her cracked lips.

Due to the trembling of her hands more than half of the water drained from them causing her to not quench her thirst as she wanted..

She was so distracted that she did not notice someone approaching her from behind.

Without her expecting it, a canteen slipped next to her, startling her with shock. She thought it was one of her friends who had managed to follow her and cursed her luck for that.

"-I told you to leave me alone-" she didn't bother to see who it was, not that she cared.

The presence was still behind her which made her despair.

"-What don't you understand!-" she turned to face the person behind her but didn't see who it was "-I want to be alone!-" she finally made up her mind to see the person who had arrived as in all her statements there was no response, she thought it might be Mitsuki, but she was completely wrong.

In front of her not was Mitsuki and not another one of her other companions, in front of her was someone she never thought she would see again.

"-Boruto..." she felt her breath catch in her throat and almost immediately felt her eyes burn, not only from the tears that were starting to sting in her eyes, but also from her Dōjutsu starting to activate.

Boruto shifted uncomfortably in place with the canteen still extended towards her and his sight that had been moments before on her was now anywhere but on her.

"-Boruto... Is that you?-" she slowly stood up from her place as her legs trembled from exhaustion and from all the emotions she was feeling "-Is it really you?-" she took a couple of hesitant steps towards him extending a hand as if she wanted to reach for him.

Boruto at the Uchiha's movement jumped back slightly fearing that Sarada would attack him as well as his other friends.

Sarada saw how Boruto reacted to her movements and watched as his face was stained with fear and worry, it was as if in front of her was a deer under the headlights being about to be hunted.

But she didn't want to hunt him, no, she could never do that to him.

Without Boruto expecting it, Sarada ran and jumped on him shortening the distance between them, the girl wrapped her arms around his neck and brought their bodies closer until they were completely glued to each other, she buried her face between the hollow of his neck and shoulder breathing heavily trying to hold back the sobs that were struggling to come out of her throat.

"-Boruto... it's you...-" she sobbed in relief as she felt him in her arms and realized it wasn't an illusion.

Feeling tears slipping from her eyes, she carved her face against Boruto's shoulder and due to the movement her glasses fell off her face to the floor in a thud, not that she cared, at that moment she didn't care about anything else in the world but the boy she held in her arms.

"-Damned idiot, you had me so worried.... I thought I'd never see you again.... I thought someone might find you and maybe...-" Sarada sobbed loudly at the thought and hugged him tighter against her.

Boruto froze in place at this completely in disbelief at what had just happened.

His hands hovered in the air away from Sarada not knowing what to do with them, he was afraid she would disappear as soon as he touched her, plus he still didn't believe that this was really happening.

It wasn't until seconds later that he felt Sarada tremble against him letting out sobs that were choked on his shoulder that he realized what was happening.

Sarada remembered him, she really remembered him, it hadn't been his imagination when he saw her trying to stop Mitsuki that time in the forest. It was real, she was real.

His vision blurred from the tears that filled his open eye.

"-Sarada...-" he whispered her name in fear.

"-Yes Boruto...-" she broke away from him a little to look at him, letting him see her tear-covered face "-I remember you.... I remember everything perfectly...-" she let out a slight hiccup as she spoke, she looked at Boruto with a great fondness and relief that even the blond himself couldn't believe.

This made Boruto's breath catch in his throat, a painful knot formed in his chest, he felt his shoulders relax for the first time in months and with trembling arms he wrapped his arms around Sarada reciprocating the embrace tightly, with his hands he clenched the fabric of her red qipao and pulled her as tight as he could against him in fear that if he let go she might disappear and leave him alone again.

"-What a relief.. I thought... I thought... That I had been left alone!-" he cried in relief embedding his face in the hollow of Sarada's neck and shoulder "-but you are here.... You're still you... Thank you, thank you...-" his voice was muffled by Sarada's shoulder, but Sarada could hear him loud and clear.

Boruto's statement had made her heart ache as she felt Boruto's pain as her own, and she couldn't even imagine what he must have felt when all those he loved so much suddenly sought to kill him in any way possible.

And all she could do at that moment was hug him and let him know with soft words in his ear that she was there for him and would always be there for him.

So they both cried hugging each other's shoulder, afraid of what was happening and for what might happen, and relieved to still have each other. That night they didn't talk about anything, they just comforted each other and wordlessly gave each other the support and reassurance they so desperately needed.

That night in the middle of the forest Sarada was sure of only one thing.

"-Even if the world hates you I will always be by your side.... -"

It was a promise she was going to keep no matter what it cost her.

To be continue...

Chapter Text

Three years had passed since what had happened and things hadn't changed, even Sarada would swear they got worse.

Everyone was getting more and more desperate to hunt Boruto down and finish with the traitor. In the face of this on multiple occasions Sarada tried to talk to Shikamaru, the current Hokage, about withdrawing the order to hunt Boruto down, remove him from the bingo book and that he should give him the benefit of the doubt. But all these requests fell on deaf ears every time.

It didn't help that Kawaki often hung out next to the eighth whispering things in his ear like a little demon on his shoulder.

The whole situation made Sarada desperate, she even once nearly gave Kawaki a good punch in the face to see if it would keep his mouth shut. To her good or bad luck, she managed to restrain herself on that and many other occasions, the last thing she needed was to draw the attention of Kawaki and Ada. And God knows what those two would do to her if they ever found out that she hadn't been affected by their little game. Although... On the other hand... She would have really liked to give him even a small blow.

Having to watch those bastards every day live a normal, happy life in the village as if nothing had happened, as if they had never stolen anyone else's life, as if they had never betrayed Boruto, as if they weren't lying to everyone so blatantly to their faces, made living next to them make her want to vomit, making her want to gag every time she saw them, making her have to hide her retching.

Watching Boruto's once dear friends insult and belittle him behind his back every day made her sick.

She just wanted this all to end, for everything to go back to normal, for Boruto and her to not have to hide so they could see each other.

Ah, yes, she and Boruto would sneak around to see each other every so often, she would bring him new information or some things to survive on.

This had become a routine, whenever she had time she would sneak out in the twilight of the night and meet her blond friend in the forest or go visit him in what was left of the vanished hidden village of the whirlpool.

That's right, Boruto had found hidden passages that led directly to the subway of that destroyed village and because only an Uzumaki could enter or find that place, the blond decided to make that place his new home.

And how did she enter that place if she wasn't Uzumaki?

Easy.

Boruto learned several sealing techniques and put one on her arm to allow her access to the abandoned place.

Even at that precise moment they were in the said village.

Boruto had made some buildings habitable for different things and one of those he made to serve as a house, it wasn't very big but not small either, it was big enough for two people to live in.

The small house had more than a couple of small rooms, and only two of them were fit for use. One was hers and one was his, though they never used both at the same time.

Usually at bedtime Boruto would take Sarada in his arms and make her sleep next to him. The first few times Sarada would protest and kick for him to let go, and once he held her against him as he settled into bed he would snuggle against her regardless of her protests, overlooking the heavy blush that tinged the female face.

Eventually Sarada stopped fighting and whenever Boruto would take her in his arms to go to sleep she would wrap her arms around his shoulders and let him do what he wanted. Once she asked him why he was so insistent that she sleep with him, to which he replied that it was mainly because having her around lessened her nightmares.

Sarada had analyzed his words and didn't argue, to tell the truth, in the days when she was in the leaf village, she also had constant nightmares about Boruto might die while she was in her house completely safe, thus causing her to not sleep or rest properly.

It is worth mentioning that she was aware that Boruto had more reasons to want her by his side, but she did not insist more so as not to burden him too much.

The annoying sound of the alarm clock next to her jolted her awake from the haze of her sleep. She grunted in annoyance stirring in Boruto's grip to try and reach for the blissful alarm clock without even trying to open her eyes.

After a couple of attempts in which she hit the small wooden surface she managed to hit the target and the incessant noise ceased. She sighed in relief at this and relaxed her body again against the blond and decided to finally open her eyes to observe the numbers indicated by the hands of the clock.

She let out a disappointed sigh, it was time to go.

-Boruto, I have to go now- he didn't answer.

Sarada turned her body to face him and shook his shoulder slightly but still there was no response.

She tried to break free from his grip but as soon as she tried, Boruto's arms tightened their grip around her, his legs tangled with hers and wordlessly embedded his head in her neck just below her chin.

-Boruto...- she moaned in frustration and tried to pull out of his arms once more.

-No...-he tightened his grip on her.

Sarada sighed in surrender, wrapped her free arm around his head and ran her fingers through his soft blond locks.

Boruto let out a slight sigh of contentment, whenever he felt Sarada's gentle caresses on his scalp he could feel the muscles in his body relax instantly.

-Boruto...- she whispered in his ear- it's time, I have to go back and you have to go train for a couple of days at Mount Myōboku-

The blond groaned knowing that she was right.

He slowly separated from her and slowly opened both eyes slowly leaving in sight his eyes blue as the sky, but one of them was crossed by a deep vertical scar that crossed precisely half of his cornea, the whole surrounding area was marked by a slight whitish stain that made his eye look a grayish blue, but despite appearances, his sight was not completely gone, although it was no longer what it used to be, he could still see, blurry, but he could see. But to avoid getting upset or losing patience for seeing from one side blurred, he preferred to keep his eye closed, leaving only his eyelid in sight, which was also scarred.

Sarada seeing her injured eye brought her hand to her face and gently ran her fingers over the damaged area.

-I'm sorry... I'm so sorry Boruto... - her eyes stung from the small tears that were threatening to come out- because of me you...-

-Shhh- the blond took the hand that was over his face and squeezed it between his- it's not your fault, you had no ways of knowing- he whispered to try to comfort her.

-But...-

-I already told you it's not your fault- he interrupted her before she could continue torturing herself- besides, in a way it doesn't bother me- he smiled sideways to lighten the mood.

-Huh?- she mumbled in confusion.

-Yup, that's right... They say that scars make a man more attractive in the female eyes- he smiled mischievously bringing his face closer to hers.

-You're an idiot- Sarada laughed while with one hand she moved Boruto's face away from her so he wouldn't see the strong blush on her face.

-At least I tried- he sighed defeated making her laugh, which made him smile relieved that she didn't think about his hurt eye anymore, the last thing he wanted was for her to blame herself for things like that.

Between more jokes and jokes both of them got ready to leave and as it was already customary, Boruto accompanied Sarada to the exit of the abandoned village.

-All right, we'll see you next week- Boruto spoke in an animated voice, not wanting to show the disappointment he felt at having to say goodbye to Sarada.

-Yes- Sarada's voice was more depressive but she hoped that the disappointment she also felt at having to return to the leaf village, whose place they no longer consider her home for a long time- so.... See you... Sarada began to take the first steps out of the protective field that surrounded the village's territories and kept them safe from anyone who wanted to enter.

But before she could cross the threshold of the grand entrance Boruto's hand stopped her holding her wrist in a firm grip.

Before Sarada could say a word Boruto pulled her to him and wrapped her in his arms in a tight embrace, he buried his face in the space between her neck and shoulder and sighed shakily.

-Just... Promise me that when we meet again you'll still remember me-

Boruto always made her make that same promise every time they were going to be separated and whenever they met again he asked her the same question.

"-Do you still remember me?...-"

"-Huh?-" was what she answered in confusion.

They were thirteen years old, and that had been their first agreed meeting after their unplanned reunion a few weeks before.

And now they were there in the middle of the forest facing each other after weeks of not seeing each other and the first thing that came from Boruto's lips was....

"-Do you still remember me?...-"

"-What kind of question is that? Of course I remember you, you are Uzumaki Boruto, my best friend and partner...-" without expecting it, Boruto hugged her, surprising her by the sudden action.

"-You don't know how glad I am to hear you say that...-" a sob came out of her mouth right after the words.

From then on Boruto adopted the habit of always making her promise to remember him until the next time they met and asking her if she remembered every time it happened.

Sarada moved away a little so that she could look him in the face, with one of her hands she cradled his face while the other remained still against his chest. She slowly stroked her thumb across his right cheekbone outlining one end of his scar, at the caresses Boruto leaned into her touch to lean his head back into the female hand as he closed his eyes contentedly.

-There's no way I can forget about you...- she whispered loud enough for him to hear her.

The blond opened his unharmed eye and watched her carefully looking for any hint of doubt or lie, distrustful, even though it had been years since that, he felt that at any moment Sarada could disappear or forget him like the others had done and then only see Kawaki instead, the truth is that whenever he thought about that he felt like he was going to die. But finding only the comforting affection that was only meant for him in those onyx eyes that he loved, he felt again that suffocating knot in his chest and throat.

-Promise me- he muttered helplessly- promise me that when we meet again you'll keep remembering me...- he closed his eye again to try to compose himself and keep his emotions under control, but the Uchiha's next words made his attempts to control himself go out the window.

-I swear on my life that I will always be by your side no matter what, no matter what, you will always be my friend and companion, there is no way in this world that anyone can change that- she muttered bringing their foreheads together.

Boruto this time opened both eyes to see closely the face of the black hair who saw him as the most important person in the world and that made his heart squeezed against his chest while beating hard, he only hoped that Sarada couldn't hear him because of how close he was.

-Sara...- his tongue failed halfway through his name, but he didn't need more, all that was enough was to stare into each other's eyes with great intensity and little by little they both began to move closer to each other shortening the little distance that remained between them. Their reparations mingled, their eyes were still fixed on each other's, however their eyelids were closing with each centimeter they got closer to each other, their lips began to brush against each other.

-It's time to go-

The sudden voice made them jump in place making them part abruptly.

"-So close-" Boruto lamented regretfully in his mind as he and Sarada looked down to their feet meeting a green toad with earthy orange spots on its body watching them intently with its large yellow eyes.

-Sorry for the interruption but it's time to go Boruto- spoke Gamakawa between small croaks.

Both young men sighed in unison and met each other's eyes only to look away almost instantly as they realized what they were about to do only seconds ago.

-Well... Well... I guess I'd better go...- Sarada turned her back to them to hide her flaming face as she stuttered.

-Ah... Yes, that's right... I think I'd better leave too.... I mean!... I think it would be better if I left too...- he replied hurriedly.

Sarada nodded and with a slight gesture with her hand she said goodbye and left on the road that would take her to Konoha.

The little frog watched the scene with amusement and when he saw that the Uchiha crossed the energy field to then start running he jumped towards the blond's shoulder emitting a small croak.

-It's time to go- seeing that the blond didn't respond he analyzed him with his eyes and discovered that he wasn't even paying attention to him.

Boruto's cheeks had a slight pink tinge and he was staring totally absorbed towards the direction where Sarada had left already a few minutes ago.

The little frog sighed and tried to call out to Boruto repeatedly to no avail, so he decided to try something.

Standing firmly on the blond's shoulder he opened his mouth and from it his long tongue shot out and hit the boy's ear causing an instant effect on him.

-Aah!- he shouted, reflexively throwing his hand towards the frog that easily dodged the blow that was aimed at his- Yuck!- he rubbed his ear with disgust- Why did you do that?-

-I'm glad you reacted, you looked dead, you looked like a fool- another croak came out of his mouth.

-What do you mean, what do you mean, "silly face?-

-That's right, your face was pink and your eyes were like those of a half-dead sheep while you were looking towards the place where Miss Uchiha left- he said with mischief.

In front of Sarada's mansion his face and ears turned scarlet and he tried to excuse himself and contradict the amphibian by all means.

-Let's just go!- he managed to say, or rather shout in embarrassment.

The little frog said no more and proceeded to take Boruto with him towards Mount Myōboku for a new round of training. Before disappearing, Boruto took one last look at the place where Sarada had disappeared, wished him luck and prayed to any deity that would listen to him to take care of Sarada.

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The way back to the village was quiet and without any setback, by the time the sun began to set on the horizon she was crossing the great gates of Konoha, the guards greeted her and she returned the gesture and without further ado went home calmly.

She avoided by all means possible the crowded areas or any area where she believed that some of her companions were at that time of the day, Why? Because she didn't feel comfortable around them and if they were there, Kawaki would most likely be with one of them.

She tried to avoid at all costs all the places where Kawaki and Ada were present, this meant that sometimes she avoided her friends and even family and this was almost daily, so she had become distant to all of them.

The best thing would be for her to live with everyone as if nothing had happened to disguise a bit the fact that she knew the truth, but she couldn't do that, she couldn't act as if Kawaki was her lifelong best friend when he wasn't, Kawaki wasn't her friend, never was and never will be.

He would never be Boruto.

Sighing wearily she walked the rest of the way to her house and by the time she arrived it was already dark. There was no one inside, it didn't bother her, at a certain point she was grateful, because then she wouldn't have to explain so much about her departure.

As she prepared to take a bath she began to think about how much she would have to invent this time so as not to attract her parents' attention.

Why? didn't anyone notice her escapades?

Well... yes and no.

Everyone knows she disappears for days at a time but everyone thinks it's for training and meditation, obviously, that's what she led them to believe. It was a bit of a silly lie but it worked, it seemed that all those people believed any story and she didn't know whether to be annoyed or grateful about it.

Once she finished bathing she lay down on her bed to try to relax her shoulders a bit as she let out a frustrated sigh.

The memory of what happened hours ago in the abandoned village made her cheeks turn pink. She grabbed her pillow and pressed her face against it to quiet the small squeak that escaped her throat.

"-I can't believe it... I almost... He and I almost...-" the very idea made her face, ears and neck turn a full shade of red that rivaled a ripe tomato.

She stared at the ceiling of her room seeking to rid herself of those thoughts, but no matter how hard she tried it was impossible to distract her mind that kept returning to that moment only to keep imagining what would have happened if they hadn't been interrupted.

Sarada ran her index finger across her lips brushing them to remember the fleeting sensation of Boruto's lips brushing hers.

"-Boruto was so close...-"

She smiled at what it could mean and decided to sleep with that thought hugging her pillow as she would normally do with Boruto losing herself in the happy memories she had shared for years with that blue-eyed blond who had her in love.

Unbeknownst to her, Sarada slept peacefully while outside her window across the street on the roof of a neighboring house was a black-haired boy with blond sides and gray eyes watching her with a frown.

-You really turned out to be a big bother to me..... Uchiha Sarada- after a few more minutes to check that Sarada wouldn't do anything else for today he set out to return to the Uzumaki house where Himawari would probably be waiting for him.

He hissed with annoyance. It was uncomfortable and very annoying to him that the younger Uzumaki was always after him calling him 'little brother', no matter how much he told her to stop she never listened to him, but he couldn't keep her away from him completely either. Just like the Uchiha, he had to keep an eye on the Uzumaki, since from day one Himawari was saying and claiming to have hunches that told him that Boruto was not the culprit and that his parents were still alive.

Everyone would probably chalk this up to paranoid thoughts of a girl who lost her father, but Kawaki could not afford to overlook even the smallest details.

But no one ever fixed that his self-imposed mission would be easy.

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A week went by where she had to stay in the village and act like nothing was happening and finally today it was back to her time to leave on a new "training" trip.

Today was another one of her meetings with Boruto so she made sure to pack in her travel backpack a large amount of homemade food because Boruto was not a skilled cook and whenever she cooked him something he seemed to enjoy it quite a lot, she also carried medicinal herbs and other infusions, assorted medicines among other first aid things, new and clean clothes because he always tore or abused the ones he already had, she carried personal hygiene items, blankets, some new kunais and shurinkens, among other essentials.

Once she was ready she left her room and without stopping to look at her parents she crossed the room until she reached the entrance, putting on her ninja sandals she shouted.

-I'm leaving!- just as she was about to turn the door knob, her parents' voice stopped her in her place.

-Wait, Sarada- Sakura and Sasuke approached her quickly calling her attention.

-What's wrong?- she questioned curious to know what her parents had to tell her, lately with everything that happened they didn't talk often so this time she was patient and believed that nothing bad would happen leaving Boruto waiting for two minutes to please her parents with a little talk.

-Things have been getting dangerous lately, while the last time you were gone it was stated that no one should leave the village alone- began Sasuke looking at her seriously- so I'll have to accompany you- Sarada hearing this felt her good mood drop.

-But...-

-Come on Sarada, let your father accompany you at least halfway- encouraged her mother with a small smile.

She knew very well that it wasn't a good idea at all to let her father follow her, she couldn't let someone find out about her meetings with Boruto, let alone where he was hiding.

-Don't worry dad, I assure you I'll be fine, it's not the first time I go alone, and in none of my trips I've had any mishap- according to what she knew, no shinobi of Konoha had had problems in their missions beyond the risks that are always in them, so it seemed strange that out of nowhere they gave the order that no one should leave the village alone, it was too convenient, could it be that someone suspected or...?

She shook her head to shake off those thoughts herself. No, she was just overthinking it, besides, if that were the case she would have already been arrested for suspected treason.

-But Sarada, you never know when you'll need help- her mother commented worriedly.

The Uchiha princess sighed, hiding her exasperation.

-Mom, dad, I'm going to be fine, okay? Trust me- she looked at them appreciatively, framing a small smile on her face to reassure them.

Her parents looked at each other uncertainly, but after a few seconds they sighed in surrendered unison.

-All right- Sasuke murmured.

-But take care of yourself, sweetie- her mother approached her and kissed her forehead.

-Yes mom- Sarada laughed a little, but when she turned to the door she was again stopped by her father.

-Sarada- she turned around only to receive a light smack on her forehead with two of her father's fingers- we'll be waiting for you- her father smiled slightly.

Sarada lightly rubbed the area and smiled happily.

-Yes!- she turned to the door and without further interruptions left, closing the door behind her, saying goodbye to her parents for the last time.

Being alone in the house both parents looked intensely at the door where moments before their daughter had disappeared. Sakura was about to go to the kitchen to prepare something to eat, but seeing that her husband did not move from his place she looked at him with curiosity.

-Sasuke-kun?-

-I'll be right back- saying that he took his cloak, katana and when he was about to put on his sandals he was stopped by his wife.

-Sasuke-kun, where are you going?- asked the pink haired girl confused.

-I'm going to follow her- he finished getting ready.

-But she didn't...-

-Don't worry, I'll follow her secretly, she won't know I'm there- he assured- I'm worried about that damn Boruto, we haven't heard from him in years, he's capable of anything, you see what happened last time, Kawaki said it, he tried to kill Sarada and that's why now he has an injured eye- Sasuke sighed- if Kawaki hadn't been...-

-Don't go on- Sakura stopped him, not wanting to imagine a scenario in which her daughter was killed- okay, you win, although I know you were going to do it even if I refused- smiled the now Uchiha.

Sasuke smiled pleased and without her expecting it he came closer and kissed her lips.

-See you- was the only thing Sasuke said before disappearing through the same place where his daughter had done, leaving a pink hair completely red.

Sarada was walking to the entrance of the village immersed in her press, she thought of her parents and felt a little guilty for lying to them this way, but she had to do it, and maybe this way things would return to normal someday, maybe, someday.

She walked with a bit of haste towards the large gates of the village without any inconvenience until once she reached the main street that led directly to the exit she could hear some murmurs of some familiar voices.

-I tell you it's very strange- that was ChōChō's voice.

-You even heard it from him already, his behavior is not normal, something's up -and that was Inojin's voice.

Sarada frowned unable to help but feel an unpleasant feeling of anxiety in her stomach and slyly looked towards where she had heard them. She was surprised to see the InoShikaChō together with Mitsuki hiding in an alley adjacent to the main street, the face of the members of the InoShikaChō was printed a doll of annoyance while it seemed that they were reproaching something to Mitsuki and he only looked at them with doubt, almost as if he was hurt or offended by their words.

For a moment she wanted to approach to back Mitsuki up with whatever it was they were arguing about, but something inside her told her to stay in her place and stay out of it.

At that she watched as Mitsuki frowned and prepared to argue.

-She wouldn't be able to...-

-Silence- Shikadai shushed them by giving a slight nod towards her. They all looked in her direction and tensed noticeably when they noticed her presence, which was very, very uncomfortable for Sarada who noticed that they were most likely talking about her, what? She didn't know and a part of her didn't want to know.

Mitsuki gave her a small smile a little sad that squeezed her heart painfully, doubtfully she returned the gesture, then she noticed that the other two males looked away from her with poorly disguised displeasure, which made it difficult for Sarada to hide her frown at that attitude, she looked at ChōChō and she even when she looked uncomfortable tried to smile cordially and waved her hand slightly.

At the forced gesture Sarada felt like iron in her arms and therefore only nodded her head as a sign of acknowledging the gesture of the one who had been her best friend and without waiting a second more she resumed her walk and with visible haste she reached the entrance and crossed the big doors and as always, no one said anything to her, for everyone she was going to meditate and train, no one imagined that she would always meet the "traitor of the village".

However, what just happened with her friends moments ago left her thinking too much, sighing she told herself that she would have to talk it over with Boruto later.

She left the village smoothly and headed towards the meeting point, she waited a couple of hours until finally, the blond appeared in the shadows of some trees.

-Boruto- without waiting for the blond to come closer she rushed to hug him, he reciprocated her friend's gesture, secretly relieved that she still remembered him.

His nightmare was being forgotten by the last person he had left....

Every time they met again and he saw that she saw him as Boruto, her friend and not Boruto the traitor, he felt a great relief invade his body.

He would die if she started to see him as a traitor....

Sarada was the first to break the embrace and quickly took the other's face in her hands, she watched him carefully and then moved the blond's head in different directions like a doll, after releasing him she surrounded him and carefully observed every feature of her friend looking for some kind of wound, for the end she took his hands between hers and saw new cuts and scratches on them, they were small but if they were not taken care of they could get infected.

-It seems that you don't have any wounds in sight besides the ones on your hands, I'll have to fix that- she took him by his wrists and made him sit next to her on the roots of a tree, and then proceeded to attend to his hands- And tell me, is there something you're hiding from me?-

-No- the blond turned his eyes away from his friend's gaze, if looks could kill he would already be fifty meters under the ground, although technically, Sarada's gaze could literally kill.

-Boruto...- she insisted and he had no choice but to give in.

He released his hands from the Uchiha's grip and slowly lifted one end of his shirt revealing a wound on his side covered haphazardly by several gauzes that were stained with blood with every passing second.

The Uchiha upon seeing this let out a choked cry.

-What happened to you? Who did this to you?- she quickly took out bandages and several other things from her backpack to cure him.

-It was no big deal, it was just a couple of Suna shinobi that suddenly attacked me in the middle of a market in one of the villages far from Sunagakure, I came back earlier than expected and wanted to get some groceries- he groaned in pain when Sarada pressed the bleeding wound- I... I have to admit that... I got overconfident...-

-You never learn- the girl sighed tiredly- I will have to stitch the wound- she announced suddenly.

-Shit...- she cursed wearily.

-Yes... Shit... I don't have something strong enough to serve as an anesthetic- the Uchiha regretted not bringing what was necessary for these cases, she would keep it in mind to pack for next time.

-Just do it and let's get this over with- he took a deep breath preparing herself for what was to come as he lay on her side on the ground to facilitate his friend's movements.

-I'll try to be quick- she tried to lighten the mood to relax him, he hummed in response- okay.... Here I go- before she started suturing she gave him a makeshift gag and he accepted it by putting it in his mouth.

The next thirty minutes were a martyrdom for both of them, Boruto tried to drown the complaints of pain and was thankful that the gag helped him in that, while Sarada died of nerves every time his friend shuddered from the pain and moaned from it.

-I'm done, now you just have to rest and not make any sudden movements-

-Yes, I know...- he slowly settled back against the roots.

-Yes, you know, whether you do it is another thing- Sarada joked.

-Ha, that's funny.... Mmm... Sara...-

-What's wrong? Don't tell me you have another wound- the concern was noticeable but a loud sound coming from Boruto's stomach answered her, making the blond blush- hahaha!- the girl laughed at the embarrassment her friend was going through.

-Don't laugh!- he shouted embarrassed.

-I... So... I'm sorry... But... Hahaha!-

-Hey, turn down the volume, you're so loud!- he shouted so that he could be heard over the Uchiha's laughter.

-Yes... you're shouting too...- she tried to regulate her breathing- but here you go- from her backpack she took out one of the bentos she had brought with her and offered it to the hungry blond- here, it's still warm-

The blond without waiting any longer, took the bento offered by his friend and began to devour it to the point of almost choking on one of the bites.

-Relax, you're going to choke if you don't chew well, here- she took out a thermos and poured him some tea.

-Tho..nks- he thanked him with his mouth full.

-You're welcome and put what you have in your mouth or you'll choke- the blond obeyed her and laughed.

-You sound like my mom-

-Ha, yeah right- she mocked.

After a few minutes of silence the blond spoke.

-Thank you, really, for everything...- the blond's look darkened- you must go through many difficulties.... And all because of me...-

-Enough- Sarada stopped him before he could continue- Boruto, we talked about this... It's not your fault, none of it is your fault.... You had no way of knowing...- Sarada leaned her head on the blond's shoulder feeling him relax noticeably- but we will solve this... Together...- she took one of his hands and intertwined her fingers- after all we are a team...- she said.

After her words she could feel how the blond began to tremble slightly and then wrapped his arms around her pressing his face in the space between her shoulder and neck.

-Thank you...- was the only thing he managed to say.

They both stood there unaware that they were being watched by someone in the shadows of the trees.

A slight rustling sound made them both jump out of their place and put them on alert.

With adrenaline coursing through their veins Sarada and Boruto with swords in hand, approached the place where the noise came from, behind a large tree in front of them, each approached the tree from a different side and carefully surrounded it, however, they completely surrounded the tree only to be startled when a group of squirrels shook the bushes and climbed up the trunk of the tree.

They both relaxed a little and sighed in relief that it had only been a family of squirrels and not someone else who had discovered their secret meetings.

It would be a big problem if they were discovered, Boruto knew that if they discovered Sarada he would be in danger upon setting a single foot back to the village, they would be capable of anything to get information out of him. Boruto shuddered just imagining it.

On the other hand Sarada thought of something a little different from her friend, she knew from the beginning how risky it was to sneak around with Boruto, she knew the risks and she was willing to take them, she decided three years ago that her loyalty was no longer in Konoha, her loyalty was with Boruto, so if someone discovered them she was very clear that she would never return to the village, she would stay by Boruto's side even if it meant never seeing her family and those who were once her friends again.

-Come on, it's not safe here, let's go- Sarada was the first to break the sepulchral silence.

-Yes- Boruto nodded agreeing- we have many things to talk about- he said seriously.

-What happened?- questioned Sarada with concern for the sudden seriousness of the blond.

-I'll tell you once we get there, it will be safer that way,- and so they both took all their things and headed quickly to the whirlpool village being seen from afar by the same shadow that remained hidden between the branches of a tree attentively watching the exchange between the two young.

After a couple of minutes after making sure that both boys had disappeared the mysterious shadow left the place to return to Konoha, without stopping to think about what the hell his daughter was thinking of hitting it off with that traitorous bastard.

One thing was for sure, when he saw Sarada again they would both have to talk very seriously and he hoped that he would have a good explanation, since Sarada never did anything without a good reason, otherwise it would mean that his daughter was committing treason. If so he would not be able to ensure his daughter's safety.

To be continue...

Chapter Text

-What?!- he shouted not being able to believe what he was hearing- What did you just say Boruto?-

-A few months ago, the toads told me that my parents were most likely still alive.... I could not believe it, but according to the great wise toad, he could see my parents in a dark place with some peculiar structures around them- he looked at the palm of his right hand- it seems that Kawaki sent them to another dimension so they would not interfere in his actions so we were searching between dimensions for weeks until finally, a few days ago I and Gamakawa found a dimension that matched the characteristics that the great wise toad told us, we were looking and looking until I found them- Boruto said remembering the scene.

Boruto was in that dimension that gave him chills, jumping over strange giant cubes that reminded him of the structures he saw the Ōtsutsuki summon earlier.

"-Are you sure this is the right dimension?-" questioned Boruto losing hope after searching for hours and finding no trace of his parents.

"-That's right, Ōjiji-sama described a dimension exactly like this and he's never wrong-" assured the toad on his shoulder.

"-If you say so...-" muttered Boruto with a puss falling from his temple thinking about how the elders were more likely to be wrong.

They went on for a few more minutes until Boruto, on the verge of losing his patience, began to argue with the little toad, but mid-diatribe the toad interrupted Boruto with a small shout.

"-I told you so!-" he jumped on his shoulder "-Ōjiji-sama is never wrong!-"

Boruto not understanding the toad's change in behavior turned to where Gamakawa was looking so excitedly only to freeze at the sight in front of him.

A few meters away from them were two rather familiar figures floating among all those cubes.

"-Mo... Da... Mom, dad!-" taking a few big and quick jumps that almost knocked Gamakawa off his shoulder he managed to reach where the figures of his parents were, only to get the big surprise that both of them had their eyes closed and their faces were calm "-Actually.... They... They are...-" he stammered fearfully at the thought.

Gamakawa jumped off his shoulder to reach Naruto's and then Hinata's.

"-Take it easy-" the toad told him calmly "-They're alive, they're just unconscious, it's like they're asleep-" he assured him, bringing a great wave of relief to the blond, who without thinking approached his parents and with tears in his eyes held their faces with each of his hands.

"-I'll get them out of here, I promise-" he murmured sadly observing the sleeping faces of his parents.

-After that when I came back they told me that if I wanted to bring my parents back I would have to extract a sample of the chakra from that dimension with a container they gave me, when I did it they said that they would take care of the rest, maybe for the next time they will have everything ready.... I don't know- at the end his voice sounded fearful, which caught Sarada's attention.

-Boruto... What's wrong?-

-What if they changed too?-

-Boruto...-

-Just think about it- he started to walk around the room lost in his thoughts- omnipotence is something simply terrifying, it was able to alter everyone's mind and if...- before he could finish Sarada approached him placing her hands on his shoulders stopping him in place.

-Boruto- when he was called the blond looked at her eyes carefully- I don't think it affected your parents, they are in another dimension, there is no way the omnipotence could have reached them where they are-

The blond was silent for a few long minutes until he sighed loudly.

-Yes... Maybe you're right...- he muttered dejectedly.

-I'm always right- the girl folded her arms smiling sideways- and... Moving on... We need to talk- she muttered seriously when she remembered what had happened with her friends before leaving the village.

Boruto frowned at this.

-What happened?-

After telling her what happened, Boruto had a serious and thoughtful face, just like her he suspected that something was not right, the ones who were once his friends could become a bigger threat if they get to suspect or know something about him and Sarada.

-We'll have to be more careful from now on- he began- we can't risk you getting caught, maybe it's better if we stop our meetings for a while, it will be safer for you...-

-Boruto- she interrupted him before he said anything else- don't treat me so carefully, I know the risks of all this, I've always known them, I'm willing to do whatever it takes to make everything go back to the way it was before- she muttered seriously, she looked at her friend's hand and quickly changed the subject- and.... About your new miraculous technique, do you think you'll be able to finish with Code with it?- pointed a finger at his hand.

-Yes. I just need a good chance and there will be one less threat- he watched her hand carefully remembering the new jutsu he was working on.

-And there would only be Kawaki left- Boruto nodded in agreement- But- the girl objected- One thing at a time- she took her sword and headed for the exit of the house they shared.

-Where are you going?- he asked confused, watching his friend's every move.

-It's been a while since we trained, and I thought a good friendly training would help us get rid of so much stress- she suggested smiling.

Boruto smiled back in a way that only he and his family knew how to do.

-That would be great-

The rest of the afternoon was spent laughing and training, forgetting for a moment everything that was happening on the other side of the barrier that covered the village.

The days passed and it was time to return to the village, Boruto and Gamakawa went back to Mount Myōboku with the promise that the next time they met again they would bring with them the way to bring back Naruto and Hinata.

So, Sarada returned to the village and everything was "normal" within the abnormal of her village life.

But she could sense that something wasn't right...

Something felt different...

Something was wrong...

A week after her return, Sarada was preparing her travel backpack again to leave again and noticed that she was missing a few things, among them some anesthetics, you never knew when she might need them.

She left her room and headed for the front door, not before noticing how her parents were whispering in the kitchen taking extreme care not to be heard, tensing up when she passed by their side.

-I'll be right back- she announced before leaving without receiving any word from her parents which was strange, very strange, but she thought she was just being paranoid and let it pass.

She walked relatively calmly until she reached one of Konoha's large pharmacies.

Upon entering she was greeted by a familiar smell of sanitizer that permeated every aisle she walked down, on her way she chose a few products she thought she needed and when she got to the anesthetics aisle, she looked at each one for minutes to finally choose a moderate amount of each type, after all you never knew.

Once everything was paid for she took the bags and returned calmly towards her house, the whole way would have been quiet if it had not been for what happened a few blocks away from her home.

Her path was interrupted by the threesome InoShikaChō and Mitsuki, each with a serious look that made her uneasy.

-Is something wrong?- Sarada was the one who decided to break the silence once and for all while still feeling that something absolutely wrong was about to happen.

-We want you to answer us something with complete sincerity- began ChōChō.

-Lately you have been acting very strangely- added Shikadai -more than usual- he scrutinized her with his eyes.

-What? -No, I... -

-Don't try to hide it- Inojin interrupted her with a frown.

-Guys- sighed Sarada trying to downplay the matter- I really don't know what you're talking about-

-Well- sighed Shikadai- then we will update you on the situation- he advanced a couple of steps towards her, Sarada when she saw him, she restrained the great need to go back, that would only make her look more bad- the bags you carry there are full of medicines and other things, but why would a single person need so many medicines just for a few days away- he observed accusingly the bags that the girl had in her hands, she tried to hide them a little behind her back being completely useless.

-Most of them are things mom asks me to buy for her work- it was the most silly lie she could think of at the moment, which she regretted shortly after.

-Why would Sakura send her daughter to a pharmacy to buy supplies for the hospital?- Inojin objected disapprovingly.

It was clear to Sarada that her act was about to be revealed and even though she knew that such a day would come she couldn't help but feel anxious.

-What's going on? What are you hiding?-

-I'm serious guys- she took a couple of steps back- I don't know what you're talking about- in less time than she expected, she had been stopped by Mitsuki, who holding her shoulders tightly made him look at her face with impression- Mitsuki...-

-Sarada, please look me in the eyes and tell me it's not true- he shook her a little- tell me that of all people you can't be doing something like this-

Mitsuki's sudden outburst threw her off for a moment, she didn't expect such a thing today.

-Mitsuki... What...-

-Is that traitor Boruto right? -Sarada felt her breath catch in her throat- Is it because of him that you're so strange?-

-It's clear why Mitsuki- interrupted Inojin approaching- This traitor has been getting intimate with that guy-

-What?!- Sarada was dumbfounded and didn't know what to do or say. Was Kawaki responsible for this? I am not a traitor!-

-Then what are you Sarada?- questioned ChōChō in distress- all indications are that...-

-Mitsuki, guys, things are not as you think- the black hair would try to make her friends see reason one last time. For Boruto, for her and for all the moments they had spent together, moments they don't remember.

-So how are they?- Shikadai advanced towards her- Are you admitting that you and that guy are seeing each other on the sly on your outings or are you denying it?

-Please guys, let me try to explain- she took a couple of steps back not sure how they would react next, "Boruto is not what you think, he would never be able to...-

-I've heard enough- Shikadai shortened the distance and grabbed one of her wrists alerting the girl- Uchiha Sarada, you're under arrest... - before he could do anything else the girl let go of his grip and moved back much further to be a couple of meters away from them.

-Please Shikadai, first listen to me- she asked with adrenaline running through her veins.

Inojin and Shikadai didn't seem to want to talk to her anymore, however ChōChō and Mitsuki looked worried.

When it looked like Shikadai was about to speak again Mitsuki beat him to it by standing between him and Sarada.

-Let her speak Shikadai- began- I know Sarada and I know that she would be incapable of doing something without any good reason- he looked at her stoically, but in his eyes he could see concern- Sarada- after calling her a deep silence followed encouraging her to speak.

Taking a deep breath she thought carefully about what she should say.

-First of all I have to warn you about Kawaki and Ada, especially Kawaki- she started- that guy is not to be trusted, he... -

-Oh please- Inojin was quickly silenced by ChōChō.

-Years ago when we were chasing Kawaki through the forest, Ada activated a power called omnipotence, that makes people's memories be altered at her convenience- she mumbled nervously- that's what made you all see Boruto like that, that's why you think Boruto killed his parents even when he didn't- she tried to make everything as simple as possible but it was clear that it wouldn't be so easy to believe.

Everything was complete silence, no one spoke, they only looked at each other, more specifically, the InoShikaChō and Mitsuki looked at Sarada with disbelief, almost as if she had gone completely crazy and Sarada watched them with nervousness and fear, expectant of their reactions knowing that they wouldn't be good.

-Is he manipulating you?- Shikadai questioned irritably- Is that why you've been defending him all this time?- that surprised Sarada.

-How do you know...?-

-I have heard you sometimes in the Hokage Tower talking to my father asking for forgiveness for Boruto, asking that he be given the benefit of the doubt- they looked at Sarada unable to believe the Nara's words.

-Why Sarada?- muttered ChōChō between tears in disappointment.

Without being able to help herself, she answered without hesitation.

-Because Boruto is innocent, he hasn't done anything!- she insisted uselessly.

The trio looked at her with disappointment and disapproval, but Mitsuki looked hurt and sad, very sad.

Approaching her silently he murmured mournfully.

-What has that bastard done to you Sarada]?- he murmured disappointed- if only I had taken care of him when I could, none of this would be happening- he took her by the shoulders again- I should have killed him, I should have made him disappear, but I promise that next time I will do better, I will make him regret everything, I will make him regret having been born and...-

Without anyone expecting it, Sarada had slapped Mitsuki making him back a couple of steps making everyone gasp and surprising Mitsuki since he couldn't believe what just happened.

All of Mitsuki's words had only made Sarada's stomach churn with revulsion, making her realize that no matter what she tried she couldn't make everything go back to the way it was before.

"-Omnipotence cannot be reversed-" Ada had told her once she had visited her to ask her more about omnipotence.

Nothing would ever go back to the way it was, how naive she had been to cling to the contrary.

-Don't ever talk about him like that again- Sarada's very serious and cold voice shook them.

Mitsuki's face was disfigured with horror staring at her in disbelief with wide eyes.

-Not you...- he muttered breathlessly as he understood everything that his friend's behavior and words meant.

Sarada seeing how everyone was now looking at her realized what she did, she had confirmed their suspicions.

In panic and without giving them time to react she ran out of there and ran the way back to her house.

She entered her house slamming the door open without caring about attracting the attention of her parents, right now the only thing that concerned her was to get out of there and look for Boruto, she couldn't stay in the village any longer, she was sure that Kawaki had something to do with all this, there was no doubt about it.

She arrived at her room with trembling hands, she quickly took all her things and put the recently bought products in her backpacks and once everything was ready she went at full speed towards the door of her house when someone called her and stopped her way.

-Sarada- she was stopped by her father's voice.

When she turned her attention to where her father's voice came from she found him and her mother, both watching her attentively, both were clearly tense.

-What's wrong?- she answered, but something inside her told her that something was wrong, she was sure of it.

-Where are you going?-

-Today I'm going on another training trip- she tried not to let her nerves and anxiety rule her.

-How about this time I go with you on your trip- offered her father to Sarada's surprise. Was he going to insist again on the same thing he did last time?

-Dad, didn't I tell you that it's okay for me to go on my trips alone? I can take care of myself-

Something wasn't right, I could feel it.

-I know, but it's been a long time since we've spent quality time together and I'd like to see how much you've improved- her father suddenly suggested, to which she shuddered.

Yes, something was definitely not right....

-There's no need Dad, the whole point of meditation is to be quiet without any distractions-

-Are you implying that I'm a distraction?-

-What? No, of course not, dad- she tried to correct himself, momentarily forgetting her worries.

-Then let your father accompany you, it's a great opportunity for them to live together like in the old days- her mother insisted with a forced smile that only gave her a very bad feeling.

-Maybe when I come back we can train together like before- she offered in return, ready to get out of there, she just didn't want to be there, she felt that something bad was happening. First her classmates and now her parents What was next?

-I see, so you want to be alone, don't you?-

-Yes, that's right, I do, I want to be alone-

-I understand... But... There's something that I don't quite understand...-

-Eh?- she acted confused, but in reality she was nervous.

-What I don't understand is why you tell me that you want to be alone when it's clearly not your intention to be alone...-

Sarada instantly tensed visibly.

-¿W.. What are you talking about, dad?-

-Stop lying to me- he blurted out clearly annoyed.

-I.. I'm not lying to you-

-Do you think I'm stupid?-

-What? No, I don't think that...-

-Then why are you trying to deceive me so blatantly?-

-What are you...?-

-Boruto- as soon as her father pronounced that name, Sarada felt everything stopped as well as her heart.

-What... What did you say...?- she wanted to make sure she heard right before doing anything else.

-Boruto- he repeated as his frown deepened- It's because of him that you always leave, isn't it- Sarada was going to deny it but her father stepped forward- Don't try to deny it, I know very well, I saw them the last time you left- Sarada felt her world crumbling little by little- I saw you healing his wounds, I saw you feeding him, I saw you treating him as if he was your friend when in fact he is not and I can't understand why you do this...-

-Because he's my friend!- she couldn't take it anymore and shouted what she had been holding back for so long, she wasn't going to stand it if they talked bad about Boruto in front of her again, she had enough.

-No, that's not true, he's a murderer and he's...-

-Don't talk about him like that! He's my friend!-

-Calm down, honey, I know you must be confused about everything but...- her mother tried to come closer but Sarada backed away.

-Don't come near me!- she didn't trust them, not anymore.

-Honey, we are not your enemies, don't worry, we won't tell anyone about your encounters with that boy, trust us...-again he tried to approach but she backed away again.

-No! get away from me I don't trust you!

-Sarada- her father called her when without her expecting it, he approached and grabbed her by the shoulders, instantly, she tried to let go.

-No, stay away, don't touch me, all of you are traitors...- she felt she was collapsing.

-Sarada- he called her again to get her attention- Sarada calm down, you don't know what you are saying but it's okay, everything is going to be fine and...-

-No! -a sob came out of the girl's lips without being able to help it- No, nothing is fine, nobody is fine, you are not fine! And the worst of all is that you don't know it...- she cried, the weight on her shoulders broke her.

-Sarada, daughter.... What are you talking about?- her mother approached her worriedly.

-She must be confused, we will take her to the Hokage tower, she must have been a victim of some kind of jutsu- Sarada let out a heartbreaking sob when she heard her father talking like that.

-I'm fine I'm fine! You're the ones who aren't!- she let go of her father's grip as he was about to speak again- That's the real problem! You're the ones who were victims of a jutsu and that's why you don't remember Boruto!- she tried desperately to make her parents understand but they wouldn't listen to her as she always knew they would.

-Of course we remember that coward, how could I not? He murdered my best friend and his wife, have you forgotten who stabbed us in the back- her father tried to convince her but she had had enough of this charade.

-Yes! Yes! And yes! I remember, I remember everything perfectly, I remember the exact moment when everything went to shit! I remember the moment when Kawaki attacked Uncle Naruto and Aunt Hinata, I remember how we chased that bad-born through the forest after he tried to kill Boruto and ME, I remember perfectly how that damn Ada used her power to brainwash everyone, I remember every exact fucking moment of my life, every moment I spent with Boruto since I was born AND I've had to watch for three fucking years as that bad-born Kawaki steals the life of my best friend!-

-Sara...-

-Don't tell me there's something wrong with me because there isn't, I'm not wrong, there's nothing wrong with me, it's you who are wrong, you're the ones who don't remember the damn truth...- she cried bitterly.

-No- her father denied and she only observed him- That damned...- he cursed to then observe her eyes- Don't worry Sarada, I know it must be very confusing but don't worry, you will be back to normal soon, we will look for a solution for your memory and you will be fine...- he couldn't continue due to a slap that Sarada gave her.

Sakura exclaimed scandalized.

-Enough, I am not wrong, you are the ones who are wrong, if you think that Boruto is manipulating me let me tell you that you are very wrong and I don't care what they try to tell me to believe otherwise- without knowing, her eyes began to change to a different pattern than usual and ignored the looks of horror of her parents- I will never betray my friend, I don't care if I have to be against you dad, I don't care if I have to be against all the damned Ninja Nations if that means that I have to be next to my fri...-

Against all odds, Sakura hit her daughter's cheek making her shut up.

-Sarada! That's enough! This is not you! You don't know the things you're saying- when Sarada came out of her stupor something inside her burned with rage.

-It's true...- her father pulled himself together- You don't know what you're doing, but don't worry about that rascal anymore...-

-Shut up... I don't want to listen to you, I don't want to be near you, for me you are strangers just like everyone here!...- she slowly approached the entrance but Sasuke interrupted her advance placing himself between her and the door.

-You're not going anywhere-

-Stand back Sasuke...-

-What for? Are you going to see him again? He's not waiting for you, not anymore...- Sarada felt as if a bucket of cold water poured over her at what her father's words could mean.

-What do you mean?...- she cautiously backed away from her father in fear- Sasuke.... Answer me... What do you mean by that?... Don't ignore me when I talk to you!- she began to lose her patience and felt that with each passing moment her sanity was diminishing as well.

-Don't worry, he won't hurt you anymore, I made sure of that.... - that was the straw that broke the camel's back and Sarada collapsed.

-What...what...what...did you...do?...- there was no answer and felt the vomit climbing up her throat but she pushed it all down- Dad.... What did you do?... What the hell did you do?!- her eyes hurt but she ignored them.

-With that criminal? He got what a traitor like him deserves...-

Everything around Sarada spun around making her stagger in place.

-No... You're lying... Y.. You are... Lying... Boruto didn't...-she put a hand to her mouth choking a pitiful moan and began to tremble trying not to end up collapsing.

Trying not to believe what she was hearing....

-Calm down, this had to happen sooner or later, it's all right now...- her parents approached her but she instantly backed away.

-No, nothing is fine, you.... All of you... You...- she looked at her father with pure hatred in her eyes- especially you.... You're fucking traitors!- without waiting for anyone's answer she ran out of her house ignoring the shouts of her parents calling her and walked away from the place to go to the entrance of the village ignoring the strange looks people gave her as she passed by.

She had to leave before her parents or her friends reported her, if they hadn't already, but what she was most concerned about at that very moment was Boruto.

The Uchiha's escape was watched from afar by Kawaki who smiled sideways at the sight, now there was one less threat in the village, at least for the moment, he knew that it wasn't enough just to chase her away, if he wanted to have complete free reign to kill Boruto he had to make the Uchiha princess disappear completely.

At first he thought that omnipotence had gotten all the potential hindrances out of the way, but of course nothing could be perfect, after a few months he noticed the strange behavior of the Uchiha, but that girl for him had always been strange, so he didn't pay much attention to her until he realized something important.

Sarada wasn't getting close to him.

Not that he wanted her around either, not at all he wanted to have her glued to him as if they were best and inseparable friends/perfect couple according to what Mitsuki once told him after a weird argument between Boruto and her.

And that's what caught his attention.

To everyone (before omnipotence) Boruto and Sarada despite fighting on a daily basis, they were best friends (too bad for Mitsuki and ChōChō). They knew each other from practically since they were born and since then they were together, whether they would admit it or not there was a certain connection between them, something that came to annoy Kawaki many times, for example, on occasions when he would fight with Sarada and Boruto would intervene, and on the contrary the times when he would fight with Boruto and that princess would get in the way.

Although they would deny it, those two were inseparable, where one went the other went "reluctantly" (yes, of course).

And that's where it all got strange.

After the omnipotence everyone believed that he was the son of the Hokage, therefore everyone believed that he always had Boruto's place and vice versa. Everyone treated him as they treated Boruto before, however, there were a couple of people who did not.

One of them was Uchiha Sarada.

If he had Boruto's life then therefore he would have this strange "relationship" (or whatever it was) with the princess.

But surprisingly the Uchiha never came within ten meters of him, never spoke to him or anything like that. Even his friends were concerned, but the Uchiha claimed that nothing was going on.

Clearly there was something going on.

He decided to investigate her just in case she posed a threat to his plan. To begin with, Ada didn't want to reveal anything about the Uchiha, it seemed that they were "friends" and so she wasn't going to violate their trust in each other.

Knowing that he couldn't convince her he decided to do it himself and although it was difficult since the sneaky Uchiha was very careful with everything she did, he was able to discover her dirty secret.

The omnipotence hadn't affected her, for some reason she still saw him as Kawaki the traitor and outsider who tried to kill her and Boruto that night and she still saw Boruto as her dear best friend she had grown up with all her life.

What mattered least to him was finding out why she was intact, what mattered more to him was realizing that killing Boruto wasn't still easy, he knew he would have to make the Uchiha disappear, but the same problem he had with Boruto was happening.

No one was going to let him touch a single hair of the Uchiha princess.

So there he realized that if he wanted to kill Boruto freely he would have to get rid of her first, and the best way would be to make everyone see her as they saw Boruto.

He knew well that Sarada's outings were to see Boruto, he traitor of the village, and no one suspected it, so he just needed to sow the seeds of doubt.

And now his efforts were paying off and from that day Sarada would also be in the eyes of her beloved village a traitor, which ironically like Boruto was not really a traitor, she was only supporting the real son of the Hokage.

Now it was only a matter of time before it was all over for those two.

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Sarada ran all over the forest of the fire country in search of the blond but she couldn't find him, desperate, she kept moving forward until arriving to the borders of the country, she came across a large trail of blood that only made some alarms go off in her head.

-Boruto! Boruto, where are you?!- she shouted scared- Boruto answer!- she activated her eyes in search of her friend's chakra but found nothing, but what she did find was more blood trail and without hesitation she followed it.

She followed the blood trail to a dark and damp cave and without hesitation she went into it.

At first she could see nothing but rocks, puddles of water and small trails of blood until...

-Boruto!- she ran to her friend's body on the stone floor- Boruto, Boruto, please wake up!- she quickly checked him and found multiple serious wounds all over his body.

"-My father did this...-" she held back a sob, just imagining the scene made her sick.

Luckily and to the Uchiha's relief, the blond still had a pulse.

-Boruto, Boruto, open your eyes, it's me, Sarada.... Please...- she tapped lightly on his cheek until finally his eyes opened.

-Boruto!- when the blond opened his eyes fully he saw his lifelong friend in front of him and he couldn't help but be scared by that, not for him, but for her.

This was bad...

If anyone saw her next to him they would kill her along with him...

He couldn't help but remember the one responsible for his current state....

His teacher...

One of the people he admired so much tried to kill him and almost succeeded....

He couldn't tell Sarada that her father almost killed him.

-I'm sorry... I didn't know my father had discovered us.... Sorry...- well, it seemed that she was already aware of the situation.

-What... what... are you doing here?- a cough followed his words, his voice was raspy, to which the Uchiha gave his some water.

-Shh, be quiet, you're very hurt- she took out several things from one of the backpacks in order to cure him.

-No... You... have to leave or they.... They will want to kill you too... If you help me... You will become a traitor...-

-I don't care- she answered confidently.

-But... Sara...- blood spurted from his mouth, alerting her.

-Silence, leave it to me, you must rest- she placed her friend's body on a sleeping bag she had placed and proceeded to try to cure him.

-Sara...- the blond tried to reply but his vision blurred and everything went black.

When Boruto woke up he was no longer in a cave in the land of fire.

With difficulty he observed everything around him and found himself in his shelter in the hidden village of the whirlpool. He knew instantly how he got there.

Sarada...

He tried to get up but he was not strong enough, he had lost a lot of blood.

It was there that he noticed a lump lying next to him on the bed (actually a double mattress that was directly on the floor). He looked closely at the figure and spotted his friend completely asleep.

The blond watched her for several minutes until the Uchiha began to open her eyes.

-Boruto!- she stood up quickly and checked the bandages wrapped around him as if he were a mummy.

He hadn't realized that he was so injured...

Sarada kept checking him but there was something bothering him and he knew exactly what it was...

-No, stop it- with difficulty he took Sarada's hands to stop her- you have to leave, you shouldn't be helping me... It's dangerous...-

-I don't care- the girl's cold and determined answer surprised him.

-How... you won't care that all your friends... and family see you as an enemy... that they see you as a traitor...-

-I don't care... Not if I can stand by your side...- she assured him with a nice calm smile that made Boruto's chest feel so warm.

He shook his head in denial...

No, that wasn't right, she shouldn't be with him....

-Sarada... You don't know what you're saying...-

-Listen to me carefully Boruto Uzumaki- the blond's breathing became short when he heard his full name after years of not doing it- I don't care if I have to become the enemy of all the people I came to love if I can be by your side, I don't care if I can fight freely against those two wretches and, before you ask, I won't regret my decisions, all my decisions have been made without regrets and I will continue to do so... I will not abandon you...- 

-But what if Kawaki is right, what if I am really a danger...? Being by my side is dangerous in every way, to no one I am more than an outsider who betrayed the Leaf, a criminal who murdered the Seventh Hokage along with his wife.... I am no longer Boruto Uzumaki.... Everyone hates me now.... To everyone I'm a traitor who deserves nothing.... I am no one to anyone...- before he could continue he felt his lips being sealed by something warm and soft, and when he realized what was happening his mind went blank.

Sarada was kissing him...

His best friend was kissing him....

He awkwardly reciprocated the kiss....

When they broke apart the Uchiha looked at him tenderly and carefully caressed his face relaxing it at the touch.

-Boruto Uzumaki, you are the eldest son of Naruto and Hinata Uzumaki, you were born and raised in Konoha, you are the grandson of the head of the Hyuga clan Hiashi Hyuga and the fourth Hokage Minato Namikaze, you studied at the Ninja Academy, you graduated, you cheated in the first ninja exams, you like video games and love hamburgers and spicy things, you are my best friend since before I can remember, you are my partner, my rival, you are one of the most important people in my life. ...- they both slowly came closer to each other again, Sarada took a deep breath, building up her courage- and you are the one I love... and nothing and nobody is going to change that...- without waiting any longer, Boruto joined their lips again in a deeper kiss full of affection.

They remained joined for a couple more minutes until their lungs demanded oxygen, and they silently lay side by side, enjoying each other's company.

Boruto didn't know how long they stayed like this, but he felt the exhaustion creep back around him and before he fell unconscious again he could make out Sarada's voice beside him.

-It's like I told you once, even if the world hates you I will always be by your side...- after hearing those words Boruto felt a great peace that he hadn't felt for a long time, he felt his whole body relax instantly, finally his eyes closed quietly and after a long time he could sleep peacefully.

Boruto in his tiredness did not realize it, but he had hugged Sarada between dreams and she happily decided to enjoy the small moment of tranquility letting sleep also defeat her.

To be continued...

I'm still alive! An apology for not updating last week, but I got sick and I couldn't do anything without getting a headache or wanting to vomit, according to the doctor and from what happened before I got sick, everything indicates that I got salmonellosis 😖 luckily I'm feeling better now 😁.

The Borusara in chapter 6 of the manga:

Chapter Text

The sky was painted a slight pink welcoming the sun that lightly illuminated the morning.

He was arriving at the meeting point in a secluded place in the forest of the land of fire when he heard through the undergrowth a faint noise that indicated that something was approaching, for a moment he thought it might be Sarada, but that could not be possible, it was still too early for Sarada to arrive to meet him, unless something bad had happened in the village that had made her have to leave earlier than usual.

The thought made him shudder and guilt began to slowly eat away at him, if anything had come to pass between Sarada and the village it would be his fault. Fear came to him quickly as he thought of the things the leaf would think to do to Sarada just for being related to him.

From the shadows of the trees a silhouette of a tall person, whoever it was, it was not Sarada.

The individual took a couple of steps closer letting some of the light illuminate his figure giving Boruto a better view of who was approaching.

Great was Boruto's surprise as he recognized the person in front of him perfectly.

"-Uncle Sasuke!-" he exclaimed in surprise, for a moment he felt happy to see a face so familiar and dear to him, but quickly those feelings were replaced by horror, reacting just in time when an electrified Kunai passed too close to his face. Which despite dodging it managed to make a fine cut on his left cheek.

"-Uncle Sasuke I waited!-"

He didn't have time to compose himself when a volley of kunais bathed in raiton shot towards him. Dodging them with agility, he leapt towards a tree branch trying to compose himself, however, Sasuke was not willing to give him a single moment to compose himself.

What was the meaning of this? The fact that Sasuke was in that place was no coincidence, somehow he knew Boruto would be there, but how?

Sarada.

Boruto's breath caught in his throat.

He knew full well that there was no way in hell Sarada would have ratted him out, so the only way to know where he would be that day was if they had been found out at some point.

Boruto cursed himself, he was sure they had been cautious, he quickly thought of what moment they could have let their guard down, until the memory of their previous meeting with Sarada came to his mind, when they thought someone had been spying on them.

He never believed that this slightest oversight would expose them like this.

Nor did he believe that the person who would discover them would be Uchiha Sasuke.

His thoughts quickly went to the black hair.

What had happened to Sarada, would she be alright?

"-I'll make sure you never come near my daughter again-" he felt the edge of his master's sword pierce his abdomen.

Blood spurted from his mouth.

When the edge of the sword painfully moved away from his skin the blood gushed out of the wound without much effort, Boruto fell to his knees to the ground with all his limbs flaccid before the sight of Sasuke, who was not going to allow even a slight chance to let him stay alive, so with determined steps he approached the blond boy holding his sword firmly ready to score the last blow.

Just as the Uchiha's sword was raised above his head the blond's hands moved quickly forming a series of seals causing a loud explosion that threw the surprised Uchiha and himself away from each other in opposite directions.

Once the explosion dissipated Sasuke staggered to his feet leaning against the tree behind him, his eyes swept over all corners of the place looking for any sign of the blond boy finding nothing but a pool of his blood where he had previously fallen to his knees.

Sasuke's first thought was that the explosion was a last alternative in case someone was close to catch him, to prevent Sasuke from torturing him in search of information, revenge or something like that, but the Uchiha quickly removed that idea from his head, he knew that the boy was not so stupid to do something like that at this stage of life, so the most logical thing is that the explosion was a desperate way to get away from him.

In that case that traitor was still on the loose in the land of fire without adequate punishment, however, Sasuke knew that there was no way in the world that someone with such wounds and after an explosion could survive without professional care. If he didn't bleed to death he would die from some infection by not treating his open wounds.

Sasuke sheathed his sword and with a new task in mind began to walk away from the scene no longer caring about the boy, now he had to make sure to keep his daughter safe.

The Uchiha hurried back to the village being oblivious to how deep in the forest Boruto was running for his life with what little strength he had left unaware that the Uchiha had given up chasing him, keeping his bag against his chest at all times.

Soon the young blond's quick steps lost speed as his legs lost strength to hold him up any longer, his vision began to blur, his head spun and his limbs grew increasingly numb with each passing minute. His arm held tightly over his bleeding abdominal wound, but it didn't matter much anymore, he had lost too much blood, at any moment he would fall unconscious.

Moving his blue eyes around the place he managed to locate not far from him one, and without many more options he staggered over to it, slowly he entered it until he felt all his strength suddenly vanish making him fall against the hard stone floor.

His mind began to drift away from consciousness little by little leaving him with only one thought.

"-Sarada... Please... Don't come here...-" he muttered before losing consciousness.

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He woke with a start getting up from his lying position only to regret it almost immediately when he felt pain all over his abdomen.

But that didn't matter, he looked everywhere with his eyes wide open looking for any threat as if she was in the middle of a battlefield.

But he wasn't, he was in a room and he remembered why.

He sighed tiredly, he knew things would get intense from now on, not only would they go after him, but also Sarada, but with any luck thanks to Sasuke they would think he was dead, so in case they went after Sarada he could step in and attack by surprise.

His thoughts were interrupted when the door to the room opened letting in Sarada who was carrying a bowl presumably filled with water.

Noticing that he was awake, the Uchiha rushed over to him.

-Boruto you're awake!- she exclaimed happily, relieved to see that her friend had finally woken up.

-How long have I been unconscious?- he managed to ask in a hoarse voice followed by a painfully dry cough.

-You've been like this for almost four days now- she informed him as she took a pitcher of water and filled a glass and then brought it to her friend's parched lips.

Boruto was surprised by his friend's answer, he didn't expect to have been away for so long.

He drank the contents of the offered glass and before he could say anything, Sarada refilled the glass, took a couple of pills from the bedside table and then handed them to him.

-Take them- she placed them in his hand- one is for pain and the other is for inflection- he arched an eyebrow at her- some of your wounds got a little infected, I tried to clean them, but it wasn't very effective- Boruto observed both pills in his hand and taking the glass (with Sarada's help) he took the medicines to his mouth drinking little by little the water swallowing the pills.

While he was taking his pills Sarada saw that in his lap was the small rag she used to bring down his fever, Boruto followed her gaze to see the same thing she did, he hadn't realized that his sudden movement when he stood up made the rag fall from his head. With his weak hand he tried to reach for the small piece of cloth only to be stopped by the Uchiha.

-Don't worry- she hurried to reach for it before making him lie down again- let me take care of you until you get better- she placed the damp cloth on his head again- until then don't think about anything else but your recovery- she murmured softly.

For a moment, their gazes crossed, leaving them immersed in a sea of thoughts that made them lose themselves in each other, submerging themselves in a flood of memories they had shared for as long as they could remember, until they both came up with the last memory they had in their memories, a kiss. Almost at the same time they both looked away with a deep blush adorning their faces.

After that neither said anything, suddenly feeling too self-conscious to speak and too embarrassed to meet each other's eyes, they remembered exactly what had happened before Boruto lost consciousness.

Memories of the other day flashed through their heads as fresh as if they had just happened seconds ago.

Unbeknownst to them, more than half an hour of complete silence had already passed in which neither of them had addressed the other, either out of embarrassment or fear of facing the repercussions of their actions.

Boruto felt confused and uncomfortable, his heart pounding hard against his ribs. He didn't know what to think, Sarada had kissed him, and it hadn't been a dream, it was real, but as much as he wanted to scream and get excited about such an event, something about the whole thing wouldn't leave him alone.

While he knew that Sarada had initiated the first kiss, he wasn't aware of the intentions with which she had done so. Not that he believed that Sarada would do something like that just to play around or anything like that, but on this occasion he felt too insecure, he had never been in a similar situation and the last few years had only taught him to be distrustful even of his own shadow so he had no idea how to proceed.

Sarada on the other hand was starting to panic, he didn't know what Boruto thought about her kissing him without his permission while he was about to die. The scene replayed in her head again and she cursed herself for losing her composure like that, it wasn't like her to do that kind of thing, she had never even done anything like that before, she had never thought of anyone like that, let alone Boruto. Her face burned much hotter just thinking about it and her heart raced.

Her embarrassing thoughts were interrupted by sharp jolt of reality. She had kissed Boruto, of all the boys she could kiss she had kissed Boruto, her best friend, the person she trusted the most and had known all her life. Despite everything they had been through over the years they remained close and now all of that could go down the drain because of her.

-Boruto you're still alive!- the frog jumped between the two of them making them jump in their places at the sudden noise snapping them out of their intrusive thoughts.

-Gamakawa!- the blond exclaimed in surprise- What are you doing here?-

-I heard that you were injured and I came to make sure you were still breathing- he commented downplaying his comment as if someone wasn't about to die- which by the way, is it my idea or can the tension between you two be cut with a knife if you put your mind to it?-

-Gamakawa!- they both shouted with red faces at the implication of the amphibian's words, which inadvertently made them remember the kissing incident.

But upon processing the frog's words well, Boruto remembered something of utmost importance that made him jump back from his place to try to get up, once again throwing the wet cloth from his forehead, but instantly regretted it as he felt a twinge of pain coming from his wounds followed by an annoying burning.

-Boruto!- Sarada grabbed him by the shoulders wanting to lay him down again- What are you doing? Your wounds are very fresh, you must stay at rest- she pushed him carefully towards the bed, but the boy resisted.

-Where is my bag?- the blue eyes wandered desperately around the room- Where is it?-

-Your bag?- Sarada thought for a moment before remembering- Oh! here it is- she hurried to a small closet where she had kept the blond's travel bag- here- as she extended it to him she quickly took it from her hands and checked the contents before a very confused Sarada.

From inside the bag Boruto revealed a sheathed dagger, Boruto seeing the girl's confusion hurried to explain.

-With this we can bring my parents back- after his words the Uchiha's eyes opened like a plate slightly opening her mouth in shock- with this we can open a gap in the dimensional space to bring back my parents from where they are now, but it won't work if we do it anywhere- Sarada was almost incredulous, the idea that there really was a way to bring back her uncles and aunts.

-What do you mean?- Sarada was almost incredulous, the idea that there really was a way to bring back her uncles perplexed her.

-With this- she took the dagger by the hilt- it will be necessary to make a cut in the air in a specific place to open a kind of dimensional portal for a short period of time-

-And that place is...- as she thought about it for a second Sarada's eyes opened wider- Your parents' house- she exclaimed surprised, but then her face darkened- but that place is...-

-I know... -he frowned in frustration- in Konoha...-

-If we hadn't been discovered... I easily would have been able to...- she stopped abruptly as an idea occurred to her, perhaps she could find a way to infiltrate the village and bring back the seventh and his wife.

Sarada's sudden silence caused Boruto to eye her suspiciously, he analyzed every feature of her face watching as her eyebrows furrowed slightly, her eyes remained open and fixed somewhere random, and her lips remained in a flat line with occasional sudden twitches at their ends, he knew that expression, she was thinking of a plan. Trying to keep up with his friend's train of thought he had a slight idea of what she was up to and he didn't like it.

-No, you won't, I won't let you- Boruto interrupted her before her thoughts went any further, startling her having discovered her.

-What? Why not?-

-It's dangerous-

-The life of a shinobi is dangerous-

-I don't care, you won't go, I won't let you do such a crazy thing-

-I wasn't going to ask for your permission anyway- she lashed out decisively- besides, I could leave right now and you couldn't do anything to avoid it.... At least not in your state-

The blond didn't say anything and only grunted in response, he knew she was right, more however, he still didn't agree with Sarada's plan, it was always dangerous every time she returned to the village after seeing him, but now things got worse, now everyone knew she was related to him and he knew that the moment she set a single foot in the village no one would hesitate to point their weapons against her. He would never forgive himself if anything were to happen to her.

Seeing the doubts and worries in her friend's eyes Sarada reached out to touch her cheek gently cradling her face drawing his attention back to her.

-You don't have to protect me all the time Baka Boruto- she gently caressed the scar on his eye- you always take care of me and help me every chance you get, now let me do the same for you- she said.

-You're wrong, yes I have to do it, I have to protect you-

-No, it's not like that, it's not your obligation to do it- 

-It's true, it's not my obligation...- his hand firmly grasped the hand that held her cheek- but I want to do it...-

Sarada felt her eyes sting and her breath catch in her throat, she was speechless.

-I promised you that I would stand by your side and protect you at all costs.... Do you remember? It was that time after the exams at Mount Hokage- unconsciously he took her other hand in his- I promised you that when you became Hokage I would be your...-

-My right hand and you would support me...- she interrupted him completing her sentence- I remember it perfectly- she murmured with a thread of voice- I know but.... At this point... I doubt very much that we can achieve something like that...-

-It doesn't matter- the blond interrupted her- that doesn't matter... the truth is that...- he hesitated a little- the truth is that... I didn't only promise it for that... -the boy felt his face burning and quickly hid from her sight.

-What do you mean?- her voice failed for a second, embarrassing her.

-I... promised to protect you because I really care about you and... I don't want to lose you- he scratched the back of his neck nervously yet he looked into her eyes and his face burned for a few seconds before turning serious- it's dangerous to go back to the village and you've already done so much for me, I don't want you to risk more like this-

-Boruto...- his name came out in a whisper between her lips with her cheeks slightly tinged with pink.

Their eyes remained on each other's as if it were an unbreakable spell where they didn't need to speak to express their feelings, their concern, their affection, their fear and everything they couldn't say out loud.

-If you kiss I'll throw up- another voice interrupted them, breaking the bubble they were in.

-Gamakawa...- growled the blond with irritation.

-What? Don't look at me like that, you can be affectionate all you want when I'm not around- he shrugged indifferently making them blush- besides, there's something more important we need to talk about- he pointed to the dagger in Boruto's lap.

-That's true- agreed Boruto returning to his serious side.

-You both know how to use that thing- began the amphibian- the problem is how to do it without...-

-As I said, I can do it, it wouldn't be the first time I infiltrate somewhere- interrupted Sarada with a frown.

-But it is the first time an entire nation wants to kill you- Boruto was quick to contradict her.

-But...- when they were about to start arguing the frog that was watching them interrupted.

-That's enough!- he shouted interrupting them- arguing will get us nowhere- he turned to Boruto- I understand your concern boy, but it's true what she says, the life of a Shinobi is fraught with danger in everything they do, and the position they are in is not very encouraging- he turned to Sarada now- and if there is any chance to end this madness we will have to take risks- Sarada nodded.

-I will do my best- she assured, pressing the dagger against her chest.

-But Sara...-

-Boruto- she cut him with seriousness leaving him speechless- I know how to take care of myself, I can do this- she took the dagger in her hands with more force- if there is a way to end all this madness I will do anything, we will do anything- she corrected herself looking him in the eyes with decision- Code, Kawaki and the Ninja Nations are already after you, you need help and I will give it to you, I will help you to overcome this, I can't let you do all the work-

-That's true- added Gamakawa- you have to get rid of Code and Kawaki, and while you take care of that Sarada will be in charge of bringing back your parents, if everything goes well I can't assure you that everything will be the same as it was five years ago, but at least it won't be the same as these last years-

Boruto was silent for a long time looking at only Sarada, seeing and tracing every detail of her, he did not know what would happen tomorrow, he did not know what he wanted in the future, the last years had taught him not to wish or plan anything in the future because at any moment he would die, but if at that moment he was asked, he would just want to escape, get away from it all and live a long, quiet and peaceful life with Sarada, but it wasn't that easy.

He closed his eyes with resignation and breathed once, twice, three times and sighed defeated.

-It's okay....- he saw once again Sarada who now looked at him relieved- but...- the girl frowned again in something very similar to the grimaces she made when they were children, Boruto would have laughed if the situation wasn't so serious- don't put yourself in unnecessary danger and if things get ugly abort the mission, okay?-

-Okay- she muttered without even looking at him, this simple detail annoyed him.

-Sarada look me in the eyes and promise me that you will leave if things get complicated- he took her hands firmly (as much as he can being weak).

With difficulty she put her onyx eyes back on her friend's blue eyes and hesitated.

-Nothing bad will happen to me Boruto- she wanted to sound sure of her words, but she couldn't fool herself, there was a high chance that she would be caught trying to infiltrate the old Uzumaki residence.

-Please Sarada- he knew it too, this mission involved many risks, risks that he probably couldn't avoid, but he wanted to feel safer letting her go alone to that place that was once their home- promise me that you will come back to me- the surprise on the Uchiha's face for his words made him realize what he had said feeling almost instantly how his face reddened- I... I mean... I... I...- he was silenced by Sarada's lips on his cheek.

-I'll be back- she whispered near his ear causing him a strange shiver- you don't have to worry about that...I once heard your father say that wherever there is someone thinking of you that place...that person is your home...you are my home Boruto...- she pulled away from him letting him see her cheeks red and her eyes out of it from embarrassment.

Boruto was speechless, he didn't expect to hear something like that coming from Sarada, it was something almost unreal and his heart fluttered strongly inside leaving him breathless.

Seeing the atmosphere the amphibian still present jumped in place.

-Well, once this is decided I'm leaving, let me know when you are ready to start- Gamakawa quickly said goodbye disappearing in a cloud of smoke leaving them alone again and very confused.

-You'd better rest, you'll have to recover for what's coming- Sarada spoke quickly before another awkward silence settled between the two of them. She helped him lie down, took his temperature and decided to put the wet cloth back on his forehead.

Boruto followed all her directions without saying anything and by the time the girl finished tending to him she stood up and walked away from him towards the door.

-Sarada- his call made her stop inches away from the door.

-What's wrong?- she looked tense, almost nervous.

Taking a few breaths, she held her breath.

-You're my home too- those simple words stunned the girl, paralyzing everything around her along with her heart before it started beating uncontrollably against her ribcage again, her cheeks tinged pink and she felt her shoulders relax more and more as her brain absorbed the words. The blond noticed the change in his friend and felt a little more relieved.

After that Sarada left the room with a small smile adorning her lips and Boruto closed his eyes willing himself to sleep, trying to ignore Momoshiki's incessant voice in his head.

Days passed and soon weeks as well, due to the conditions they lived in Boruto's injuries required more attention and time to heal and recover, it has been a month since that and Boruto seemed ready to embark on his new and perhaps last mission, whether for better or for worse.

Now they were about to leave the hidden hidden village of the whirlpool and separate so that each one would fulfill their part of the plan, Boruto would be in charge of Code attracting Kawaki's attention so he could finish him off as well and Sarada would have to infiltrate Konoha to bring back Boruto's parents. Not so hard if you were just saying that, but carrying it out would be another matter.

-Sarada- his voice stopped her in place, Boruto swallowed hard, this might be the last time they would see each other as it might not be, but he didn't know that- be very careful, okay?- he hesitated a little because of the sudden concern, but he was looking for relief from his worry.

-Yes- Sarada nodded sketching a smile, not wanting her mind to fall into the same hole of worry as Boruto- you too Boruto- the boy nodded in response and without further ado they both parted with the goal of accomplishing their respective missions.

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The first rays of the sun were just beginning to rise when a shadow passed the detection barrier suppressing her chakra, slipping through the buildings of the leaf village making sure not to be seen and feeling the adrenaline rushing through her veins as she entered the village approaching her target.

Following the direction she knew quite well, she could make out in the distance a place she came to frequent very regularly during her childhood, the Uzumaki house. She had many memories of that place, both good and bad, and in every one of them was Boruto and his family, but now, that house that used to be full of life was now destitute, sad, haggard and devoid of life, even the plants in the garden that had once been perfectly manicured had withered quite some time ago due to neglect.

Sarada recalls that shortly after the omnipotence incident Himawari had moved into the Hyuga mansion into the care of her grandfather and aunt, who welcomed her with open arms still grieving the sudden loss of Hinata and Naruto.

Sarada witnessed for years the process of emaciation of the old Uzumaki house in the absence of its owners, and seeing how day after day that place she remembered so fondly disappeared, she felt as if someone was stabbing a dagger in her chest straight to her heart.

Dagger!

Her hand instinctively sought that object and when she did her hand clung tightly to it, it was now or never, being already in front of the Uzumaki house she took courage and entered through one of the windows that had remained open all these years. Being inside the house she saw that everything looked more emaciated since the last time he set foot in the place, that had been almost a year ago, the floors were covered by a thick layer of dust and dirt as well as the blankets that covered the furniture, bird feathers scattered at certain points and numerous cobwebs in different corners of the place.

She shook her head from side to side to clear her mind, first things first, accomplish the mission. Activating her Sharingan, she went through every room in the house without leaving a single space unchecked, until in the end there was only one place left to search.

Passing through the kitchen she walked into the room that was meant to be dining and living room, she stopped in place when her Sharingan caught a small flash of light followed by dark chakra-like energy, it seemed to emanate from a thin jagged scream that remained static halfway across the room.

"-Bingo-" she carefully circled the strange crack analyzing every inch of it until stopping at a certain point that seemed to have a strong and noticeable chakra mark to anyone passing near or over it.

Drawing the dagger from its sheath she moved closer towards the crack and raising the sharp object above her head, she imbued it with her chakra and decisively dropped the blade in the direction of the strange scream.

-Sarada...- a soft, concerned voice was heard at her back making her stop dead in her place, leaving the dagger's blade inches from its destination.

Sarada's heart stopped for a second "-That voice-" she slowly turned around in place until she came upon the person who had been behind her, bumping into the least expected person- Sumire... - In front of her stood Sumire Kakei, the shy and analytical girl she knew from the academy, since what happened with the omnipotence her encounters with Sumire were becoming scarce, to the point that they rarely heard anything from each other, Sumire spent more time with Ada and Kawaki by Shikamaru's orders, while Sarada had given up spending time with them in Kawaki's presence, being from time to time her visits to Ada.

As far as Sarada knew, Sumire very rarely left the premises of the research center, where she spent most of her time when she wasn't with Kawaki and Ada. So, that being said, Sarada didn't know why she was there in the old Uzumaki house.

-What are you doing here Sumire?- she asked cautiously, not knowing the other girl's intentions Sarada had to remain alert to every movement and sound that represented a threat.

-That's the same thing I would like to ask you Sarada...- she raised her hands in a reassuring gesture- now, could you please lower that weapon- she asked with feigned softness, however, Sarada did not relax her tense and defensive posture at all.

-Why should I? As far as I know everyone already knows, don't they, that I'm a traitor?- the words tasted bitter to her, but there was no other way to say it.

-Yes, that's right...- she nodded regretfully- Everyone in the village already knows about your alliance with Boruto.... That's why I came... I want to talk to you, not fight- she spoke slowly and calmly, but the alarms in Sarada's head did not stop ringing.

-Why? what would you gain from it?- she asked cautiously.

Sumire paused for a moment contemplating the question and a possible answer.

-I know how difficult this situation must be for you...- she started with a murmur- for the person you love the most to be in a situation like this must feel horrible, but...- she hesitated for a moment avoiding the scarlet gaze of the Uchiha- I'm sure Kawaki and Ada did the right thing that night- at the end of her words everything fell silent, Sarada was speechless feeling all the air leaving her lungs at the realization.

-You know it...- she managed to whisper with the air left in her lungs- You've known it all this time...- she felt the whole world reeling around her- all these years and you.... You... You kept quiet...- her mouth went dry.

-Yes... I've known...- she murmured.

-And then why didn't you leave anything?!- she suddenly shouted in annoyance making the purple-haired woman back away- You have allowed Boruto to be treated like scum all these years.... You have allowed them to try to kill him...- she choked on her own words, knowing that someone so close to them had known everything and kept silent was making her sick- Why?...- she couldn't understand.

-It's for the best, Sarada...-

-The best?- she questioned incredulously interrupting her- How is all this the best?- she questioned her suspiciously- To orchestrate all this farce is the best? To play with everyone's mind is right? Tell me Sumire, how is stealing someone's identity to assassinate him the best thing to do?!- she reproached her with restrained anger.

-You don't know?- the purple-haired woman seemed to be alarmed by something- Kawaki saw Momoshiki next to Boruto, that thing can take control of Boruto, it's only a matter of time before...-

 -You're an idiot!- she shouted at her in annoyance- Do you really believe all the things that lunatic said?!-

-Sarada just listen to me, think carefully about what Kawaki says...- Sumire tried to speak to her, but was quickly silenced by the Uchiha.

-Shut up! Never mind, I'll finish what I came here to do-when she raised her arm to stab the dagger in the destined area she felt all her muscles tense at the same time, dropping the dagger to the ground, getting paralyzed in place and no matter how hard she tried she couldn't move, feeling how her Sharingan disappeared too- What...is going on?- she looked out of the corner of her eye as the shadow spread from her feet to a couple of meters away connecting to another person's shadow and not just any person- Shikuamaru...-

-I never thought it would come to this Sarada, although it's partly my fault, I didn't see all the signs and let you come to this- lamented the eighth- immobilize...-at the order, from the shadows came a group of Anbus that surrounded her to prevent her from escaping.

-Shikamaru, wait, you don't know what you're doing!- she tried to reason with fear of what could happen, she cursed herself for having been so careless, she was a Kunoichi and she had not noticed the presence of all those people.

-Sarada Uchiha, you are found suspected of treason and sedition against the leaf village and alleged conspiracy with the traitor Boruto, therefore, from now on you are under arrest- recited Shikamaru without paying attention to the girl's protests.

The Anbus cautiously approached the Uchiha princess with handcuffs and restraints of all kinds in their hands, the girl at the sight of him became exalted.

-Stop it! This is a mistake, seriously, Shikamaru- she looked at the man once again, but this time he looked away in disappointment- Shikamaru, listen to me!- when an Anbu grabbed her arm she gave a slap releasing herself from the unwanted grip.

At her outburst the Anbus were alarmed, and without giving her time to do anything else they rushed towards her in an attempt to restrain her, however Sarada was not going to give up.

In the middle of the confrontation she looked once more at the Hokage in function and when she saw that he was leaving the house she became furious.

-You're a coward Shikamaru, you refuse to see all the signs, you know something is wrong with all of this but you refuse to want to accept it!- she spat spitefully towards the eighth- The Seventh would listen to me no matter what! That and many more things is why Naruto is a thousand times better Hokage than you!- she shouted angrily when she felt an Anbu wanted to grab her from behind, but in one swift movement she pushed him away- I will never consider you my leader, for me you are not the Hokage, I will only be loyal to the Seventh...!-

-But he's dead!- Nara suddenly shouted, turning to her- He's dead, Boruto killed them, Naruto and Hinata, he killed them without hesitation!- he approached a couple of steps closer once a pair of Anbus managed to grab her arms, provoking in her a cry of helplessness- Naruto is no more, now I am the Hokage whether you like it or not, you being a Kunoichi of Konohagakure your duty is to see for the good of the king, your people, all those you must protect and from what you have shown me in the last few minutes I can clearly see where your loyalty truly lies- by this point the Anbus had been able to hold the Uchiha's limbs, so with more confidence Shikamaru came closer- you are not on my side, nor Naruto's, much less the village. ...- he looked her up and down with suspicion- you're on his side..... You're with that traitor...- he slowly moved away again, looking at her with disappointment- I didn't expect this from you... you really disappoint me...-

-I disappoint?!- she exclaimed indignantly, but before she could continue with her diatribe she felt how some handcuffs closed around one of her wrists alarming her instantly- Let go of me let go!- she began to struggle in search of freedom, at that moment her eyes changed color to give way to her Sharingan but from one moment to another her eyes were covered by a rough and thick blindfold that as soon as it touched her face she felt how the chakra left her eyes. It was a chakra suppressing seal.

-Lock her up, I'll decide what to do with her- the Nara gave the order with exasperation.

The Uchiha was still stirring in the strong grip of the Anbus who even with the suppressive seal, were struggling to hold her back. As Shikamaru was about to use his shadows to subdue her, the Uchiha's new desperate screams caught everyone's attention.

-No! Please don't do this!- she began to shake with more fervor, but this time instead of wanting to free herself from her captors she seemed to want to get something off of her- Mitsuki begged you, please listen to me!- everyone looked at her in confusion, for what did Orochimaru's son have to do with this? Their answers came a couple of seconds later when from the Uchiha's shoulder a small white snake crawled up to her neck- No, please...!- her cries were interrupted when the small reptile bit the skin of the black hair's neck making her moan slightly from the pain interrupting her tirade.

No more than five seconds later Sarada felt her body heavy, her limbs stopped obeying her and her eyelids felt heavy just like the rest of her body, before losing consciousness she tried to keep shouting the truth, so anyone could hear her, but her tongue did not respond, making only slight dears come out of her half-open mouth before she lost consciousness, letting fall from one of her eyes a tear that slipped through the blindfold, a fact that did not go unnoticed by Shikamaru, who quickly decided to let it go.

Everyone else witnessed how the irascible Uchiha was knocked down in seconds by a small albino snake, which as the girl shouted, belonged to Mitsuki.

As the Uchiha's body went limp in the Anbus' arms, the reptile climbed down from her and crawled across the floor to a spot on the other side of the room to announce Mitsuki's presence as it climbed up her arm under her robes.

-Mitsuki, I didn't realize you were there- muttered the Hokage in surprise approaching the albino while behind his back the Anbus firmly grabbed the unconscious body of the Uchiha princess to then carry her out of the place to take her somewhere to keep an eye on her.

Mitsuki didn't answer and only looked over his Hokage's shoulder at her friend's body, until she and the Anbus disappeared from his vision leaving him alone with the Hokage and Sumire, who during all the time stood on the sidelines watching everything carefully.

-You did well Mitsuki- Shikamaru touched his shoulder in congratulations, however Mitsuki didn't feel satisfied, he felt sick, he knew he had done the right thing, but for some reason he didn't feel that way.

Sumire continued to stare intently at the place where Sarada had disappeared moments before. Like Mitsuki, she was convinced that she was doing the right thing, she knew the threat that the Ōtsutsuki posed, the threat that her beloved Boruto now posed to the village and how Sarada had become a threat as well, but even knowing that she didn't feel good about what had just happened.

She had betrayed not only Boruto, but also one of her friends, who despite all the hardships had not abandoned Boruto.

-For treason, she will be given capital punishment- Shikamaru sentenced regretfully interrupting the thoughts of both teenagers. He didn't like the idea of sentencing the daughter of two of his friends to death, but she knew what she was getting into from the start and the council elders were furious, they demanded that traitors be punished as the law dictated.

-Capital Punishment...?- Sumire hesitated in shock, looking wide-eyed at Shikamaru hoping that whatever she heard was a mistake.

Mitsuki was no better off than Sumire, staring intently at the man, yet she kept his countenance steady and emotionless.

There was nothing they could do.

Those present without another word left the place leaving the Uzumaki residence desolate except for a certain blonde-eyed girl who watched everything hidden between the stairs.

She knew something wasn't right and she was sure Sarada had the answer.

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Boruto was somewhere between the country of the waterfall and the country of fire, most of the day he was searching tirelessly for Code without any success until at dusk he appeared.

-Uzumaki Boruto- he had approached him as confident and indifferent as always, that attitude reminded him a lot of Kawaki, that made him growl with annoyance.

-So there you are- he unsheathed his sword preparing to fight and hoping that his new technique would work on the guy in front of him- I think it's time to finish this- 

-Ha! You're so right, but believe me, I'll really enjoy tearing you to pieces- his arm deformed almost like Kawaki's- I'll make you pay for everything you've done-

Boruto laughed at this, it seemed that Code had also been affected by omnipotence.

-I did some research on you over the past few years and I've come to notice something in particular- he continued without ignoring the blond's mockery.

-I'm sure I don't care what you've done over the years- the blond lunged at him swinging his sword deftly forcing the white-haired man to step back to steady himself and counter attack.

-You may not care, but I do- his arm and Boruto's sword collided keeping them within inches of each other- I've seen how you and that little princess have become one...- he muttered making eye contact with the blond, noticing the slight flash of alarm in his eyes, he smiled sideways at this, he had hit a sensitive nerve- once I'm done with you I'll go for her and tear her limb from limb slowly, so that anyone can hear her screams of pain until she bleeds to death, it's a pity you won't be able to hear it because of. ...- his sadistic speech was interrupted when Boruto's fist smashed hard into his jaw sending him flying a couple of meters away.

-You won't...- the chakra began to surround his free hand as if it were some kind of wind- not if I can avoid it...-

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-Tell us what you know about that damned traitor?-

-I already told you everything I know...- the girl gasped with exhaustion after being stripped of all the air from her lungs, the circulation of her hands was almost nil due to the ropes with which she was fastened to the interrogation chair and with any movement a painful friction was created between them and her bruised skin.

-All you do is say that Boruto is not a traitor- Ibiki Morino grabbed a handful of her dark hair and pulled it to make her look him in the eyes, drawing from her a small grunt of pain that she ignored completely- Where the hell is your loyalty Uchiha!- he shook her to provoke more discomfort, more however Sarada gritted her teeth not wanting to give gratification to the man who had been interrogating her for hours.

-It is with the true son of Naruto and Hinata Uzumaki- at her answer Ibiki growled gritting his teeth in annoyance as well as his grip on the ebony hair causing a small whimper from the Uchiha, but he stood firm in her response.

-You are indeed stubborn Uchiha, worthy of someone from your clan, but that's why those from your clan are usually a walking problem- after another squeeze he released her roughly, "I'll give you one more chance to tell us the truth.

-I already told you, Kawaki is not the son of the Seventh... to... it's all a trap- her voice cracked as she felt the dryness in her throat, she even coughed a couple of times, she had not drunk or eaten anything since she had arrived to the village, but those who were guarding her did not care about this and continued the interrogation for a few more hours.

-You've had enough of me silly girl- exclaimed Ibiki annoyed at not getting what he wanted while cleaning some of her things before putting them away- your actions will have very serious repercussions Put her back in chains! I'll have a Yamanaka take care of her before dawn-

The Anbus untied her and took her arms to attach them to chains that hung on opposite sides of the room keeping her arms held in the air and her knees flush to the floor, on which were shackles that they used to immobilize her legs.
(Kind of like Tai lung from Kung Fu Panda 1).

The black-haired girl didn't have much strength to resist so she let them drag her to her bindings, emitting slight moans from the harsh and not at all gentle treatment on her bruised limbs.

Meanwhile, unbeknownst to anyone else, a girl with a pair of cheek marks and blue eyes was listening on the other side of the door and leaving the scene shortly before the door opened letting Ibiki and the Anbus out into the hallway.

She had heard enough to be sure of one thing, Kawaki was lying to them all, it was hard to believe, but many things seemed to make sense in the face of this new perspective, she had long suspected something was wrong, but this only confirmed it.

But what could she do about it?

The blue-eyed girl left the place planning what she could do about it.

Hours passed without her being aware of how much time had passed in the darkness of the cell, she was tired, but refused to give in to the immense urge to close her eyes and sleep.

After being in complete silence for hours made hearing a vortex at her side startle her and she looked in the direction of the noise slightly catching the silhouette of someone she knew well.

-Wow,! you look like shit- there was a hint of gratification in the boy who was looking at her contemptuously through the darkness.

-Kawaki... You fucking traitor- she spat spitefully.

-Why so much hatred? It's not my fault you're here, I wasn't the one who forced you to ally yourself with that idiot- he crossed his shoulders haughtily.

-You won't get away with it- she replied, not wanting to respond to his provocations.

-Oh believe me, I've already done it- he came closer to her with heavy steps- I'll get rid of Boruto once and for all and you won't be able to do anything to avoid it, because by tomorrow you'll be dead.

-What..?- all the hatred she felt inside her was replaced by surprise and disbelief.

-That's right, hours ago your fate was decided and Shikamaru has given his verdict, tomorrow morning you will be executed- he grabbed a handful of her jet hair pulling her tightly towards him forcing her body closer forcing a grunt of pain from her.

Sarada's eyes widened in horror at the newly revealed, she never believed that Shikamaru would make such a drastic decision like that. She began to feel short of breath, she was hyperventilating, she was going to die, she was going to be killed in just a few hours, she had failed, she had failed Boruto, she couldn't get Naruto and Hinata back and she would be executed.

-Don't worry...- he brought his face closer to hers- as I told you, I'll get rid of that idiot Boruto and so both of you will keep each other company in the afterlife...- Sarada pushed his head forward hitting him hard until she made him retreat a couple of steps releasing his hair as well.

-All your crimes against the village of the leaf will not go unpunished- she shouted spitefully.

-Crimes?!- every shred of calmness he had appeared to have left him and exploded at her- Do you really not see what I'm trying to do? I'm doing it for the good of everyone! The Ōtsutsuki are a menace, a plague that has to be exterminated from the world!- he shouted angrily.

-You really believe all the garbage that comes out of your mouth, don't you?- both her gaze towards him and her words exuded disgust.

-It's useless to try to make you understand, just like talking to you, anyway you don't have much left, Uchiha- he moved further away from her until his figure became difficult to see- Anyway, I have work to do, I guess this is goodbye Sarada Uchiha- and without letting her reproach the same sound of the vortex was present to then leave everything in complete silence.

Already being once again submerged in silence she could feel how everything was coming down on her shoulders and without being able to avoid it her eyes burned and from them the tears came out passing through her cheeks like waterfalls, she didn't want to believe that everything would end like this, Kawaki had won.

Feeling her throat burn with each sob the exhaustion began to take its toll, making her eyelids feel extremely heavy and the lack of food and drink worsened her condition.

Unable to help herself any longer she let herself be carried away by the intense need to lose herself in unconsciousness and sleep, knowing that tomorrow things would be over for her.

In a choked voice she regretfully murmured a lament.

-Forgive me Boruto...-

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The confrontation against Code had lasted longer than planned, all night fighting non-stop, until he finally managed to give him an effective blow with his new variation of his Rasengan. It didn't take more than a couple of hours for it to take full effect on Code, first it nullified several of his techniques that depended on chakra, his balance was affected, he began to cough blood and finally his body stopped responding when he asked him to act, until without further ado, he fell dead to the ground completely worn out.

When it became clear that Code would never get up again, Boruto could breathe calmly, his muscles relaxed and his legs gave way under the weight.

At last the threat of Code had ceased to exist.

One less threat, all that was left was....

-Wow, you really did it after all- the voice of the person he was thinking of came out.

-Kawaki- he turned to him with his guard up.

-Long time no see, Boruto- he greeted him casually, angering the blond even more.

-Since you're here, you saved me the trouble of going all the way to Konoha to find you- his head began to work on different ways to get rid of him.

-Yes and... Speaking of Konoha...- he brought his hands to his pockets in a nonchalant gesture- They caught your pretty girlfriend- he smiled as he watched Boruto's stoic face unform with worry.

Boruto tensed at hearing this, Sarada had been caught for going to retrieve his parents, he had allowed her to go there alone and now the Konoha authorities were holding her prisoner.

He shook back and forth his head to clear his thoughts, he had to focus, one thing at a time.

-No problem, once I'm done with you I'll go get her- when he was done with Kawaki he could more easily infiltrate the village, get Sarada out of there and escape as far away as possible.

To Boruto's dismay, Kawaki formed a sly smile as he watched the growing dawn.

-It's too late to save anyone now- was all he said, causing Boruto's chest to tighten painfully- by now they should already be starting-

Starting? Starting what? Did they...?

Boruto felt his legs weaken but he held himself in place, his blood burned at the meaning of his words and a horrible pain in his chest came to his chest.

It wasn't true, it couldn't be true, Sarada didn't...

-I know what you're trying to do- he managed to say- but you won't be able to distract me- it couldn't be true, it had to be some kind of trap on Kawaki's part in order to distract him.

-Oh Boruto, if only you knew all the things that can happen in a single day- he mocked at his disbelief- she was caught yesterday when she tried to infiltrate your parents' house, even when she was caught she kept screaming and trying to explain that the seventh and his wife were alive and that they could bring them back- he recounted remembering what happened- it's a pity that for everyone her word was no longer reliable, after all, she is a traitor, nobody will believe the words of someone of her kind-

-That's enough- he warned with a threatening tone.

-She was locked up under maximum security where she was interrogated relentlessly until a few hours ago, and the eighth decided her fate- he continued without caring about Boruto's objections- she was sentenced to capital punishment-

Boruto felt as if a bucket of ice water was poured over him, suddenly he couldn't breathe and everything was spinning.

-This is your fault...- he growled trying to keep his head clear, but it was impossible for him to keep calm.

-No Boruto- Kawaki's cynical voice worsened his mood- it's because of you that she will be executed for treason- he continued pleased by the effect his words were having on him- if it wasn't for you she wouldn't be in this whole situation, you should have died long ago Boruto, but you have that bad habit of not dying when you should and now, because of your insistence the last person who still cares about you will die- Boruto's breathing became erratic.

-Boruto you have to calm down or this guy will get what he wants and personally I don't want to disappear because of your ridiculous feelings for the Uchiha- Momoshiki spoke in his ear with special dislike in the last part, he had never liked the Uchiha, well, no one really.

-I don't give a damn what you want or not- he growled in disagreement surprising the pale being inside him for what his words could imply- at this point I don't care anymore, all I want now is to get rid of him with my own hands without anyone else getting involved, especially you- he wielded his sword towards Kawaki- listen to me well Kawaki, I don't care if I have to die, but I won't do it alone- he held his sword tightly lunging towards Kawaki- You're coming with me!-

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-Sarada- she heard someone calling her name from far away, it was like being underwater- Sarada, wake up- each call was getting louder and clearer.

Fighting against the haze of sleep she forced her eyes to open to see only darkness puzzling herself for a moment until her mind returned to what had happened in the last twenty-four hours.

-Pss... Sarada.. Pss- the named directed her sight all around the room that was still in darkness without being able to see anything beyond her nose, but she could recognize the small voice as Gamakawa's- here- she could feel the frog's cold, clammy little body on her legs.

-Gama...?- she murmured in the remnants of sleep.

-Hello child, sorry I'm late, I looked for you everywhere, for a moment I feared that you had already been executed-

-It won't be long now...- she murmured tiredly.

-Then let's go!- Without knowing how, the little frog had released her from her bonds causing her to fall limply to the cold ground.

-Wait... we can't leave yet- she mumbled, struggling to get up from the floor.

-Are you insane?!- shouted the little toad- In a matter of a couple of hours you'll be killed by your own people!-

-I know, but I couldn't bring Boruto's parents back, I have to try again-

-Stop right there young lady- the amphibian stopped her with irritation- I don't think it's necessary to remind you that right now you are a high-ranking criminal who is sentenced to death, you can't just walk around as if nothing is happening-

Sarada knew that Gamakawa was right, there was no way to enter the Uzumaki house without causing a scandal, she thought carefully and had an idea that was very risky.

-I have a plan, but we'll have to do it fast- she only hoped that everything would go well.

Outside the building stood a blue-haired girl who was observing everything inside the facility thanks to her eyes.

The girl sighed in relief from her hiding place, good, she wouldn't have to intervene in a direct way to get the Uchiha out anymore, after hearing Sarada's statements she was more and more convinced that Kawaki was an imposter, it seemed unreal to her that someone had modified her memories, but that would be a good answer to why she felt so weird being around Kawaki.

Her relief didn't last long because as she was about to leave she saw a group of people arriving at the building to see the Uchiha before the agreed time of her execution.

Himawari activated her Byakugan again to better observe the people, finding Sarada's parents accompanied by Konohamaru and Sai who would be in charge of escorting them to their daughter's cell.

The Uzumaki turned her gaze to where the cell was to discover that the Uchiha was still there. She needed to give him more time to escape.

Emerging from her hiding place, she approached the group that was about to enter the building drawing their attention almost instantly.

-Himawari- the adults looked at her in surprise- What are you doing here?-

-I came here to see Sarada, I would like to talk to her one last time- at this last words the Uchiha couple tensed visibly, it was clear that they were not at all excited about what was happening, but there was little they could do about it.

-Well, it's just where we are going- said Sai and then pointed to the door of the enclosure- Come with me-

Immersed in a funereal silence they entered the building, the younger Uzumaki did not know what else to do to gain time and with fear Himawari followed them closely until they arrived in front of the armored door of the sealed cell, the Uzumaki closed her eyes tightly with fear that Sarada had not managed to escape.

Great was the surprise for everyone when Sai opened the heavy metal door to reveal the empty interior of the cell.

To Himawari's great relief, Sarada was no longer there.

The adults entered the cell fully looking for the Uchiha nervously while Himawari stayed in place without moving a muscle.

-Sarada!- her mother called out to her with concern.

-Sarada, where are you?!- no matter where he looked, Sasuke couldn't find any trace of his daughter.

-She ran away...- Konohamaru exclaimed in a whisper with disbelief.

Without wasting time Sai came out of the cell giving notice of the incident.

-Sound the alarms, Uchiha Sarada escaped!- Sai shouted to all the staff there.

And unnoticed by anyone, Himawari had also disappeared.

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The news that Uchiha Sarada had escaped from prison spread like wildfire as soon as all the prison guards started searching for her all around and surrounding areas of the village, creating a great commotion that reached the ears of the Hokage in function that without wasting time put all available Hyuga and Yamanaka in motion to carry out a meticulous search for the princess of the Uchiha.

-There is nothing?- Shikamaru was currently standing next to Ino at the detection team's headquarters waiting impatiently for an update on the status of the fugitive's search.

-The entrance to the village-

-Negative-

-The southern forests-

-Negative-

-The walls- 

-Negative-

Each of the sensors said the same thing, none of them could detect any trace of Sarada and this stressed Shikamaru more and more and worried Ino, they didn't know what the Uchiha was capable of at this point, the things the Uchiha were capable of were worrisome and most of the time meant a great threat to the village, no matter what they had to neutralize her.

-What happened to Sasuke and Sakura?- the blonde woman broke the silence in mortification at the state of her friends.

-The entire Uchiha family was placed under house arrest until everything is settled- he answered in a monotone voice without taking his eyes off the sensors.

-Don't you think it's too much to put everyone under arrest just because of Sarada's mistake?- while Ino knew that the Uchiha held Sarada in high regard she didn't believe that they would try to do something that would harm the village, even though Sarada's actions were being completely contradictory to this belief.

-We can't take even one risk- was all Shikamaru said before one of the sensors shouted with alarm in his voice.

-I found her!- everyone in the room turned to him in shock.

-Where is she?- demanded the Nara urgently.

-At the Research Center- he answered immediately.

-The Research Center? What's he doing there?- muttered Ino a few seconds before her friend ran out of the place in a hurry- Hey Shikamaru! Where are you going?!-

-To the Research Center, she'll try to do something to Sumire!- he growled annoyed, he couldn't believe he didn't realize it before, it was obvious that Sarada would try to take it out on the purple haired girl for being one of the ones who caused her capture, he just hoped he wasn't too late.

In the other place Sumire walked through the village towards her office in the Research Center that also served as a dormitory looking for some kind of shelter and maybe she could forget for a while what was happening.

She didn't feel good, she felt dirty, like a traitor, she had betrayed not only Boruto and Sarada, but also the entire village, although the latter had no idea, all while the village high command believed that she was a hero for having stopped a potential threat to the security of the village.

That threat was none other than one of her friends, Uchiha Sarada, who like her was still remembering everything that really happened that time.

Now she would die and soon Boruto, the true son of the seventh Hokage, would die as well.

Her friends would die because of her, however, she had to do it, it was for the good of the village or so she wanted to grow up, and so maybe she wouldn't feel so guilty of having betrayed her friends, but it wasn't working, she felt so guilty that she couldn't rest.

She had done the right thing, hadn't she?

Entering the building she passed through the reception and the corridors of the place without noticing the abnormal lack of staff that would normally be everywhere.

Arriving at heroffice, she closed the door behind her, hurrying to the window on the other side of the room to close the curtains, leaving the space around her in complete darkness.

Turning away from the window she backed away until her back bumped into the wall adjacent to her desk. She kept her eyes fixed on an indeterminate point in the room thinking about everything that had happened in the last twenty-four hours and without being able to help it her mind went back years ago where everything was much easier, her years at the academy where she met her friends, the moment when she decided to stop being a ninja to dedicate herself to the scientific field and everyone gave her their support and the small but significant moments she had with them before everything in their lives went wrong.

Sumire's breathing quickened to a sudden hitch as she felt a lump in her throat that made it difficult for her to breathe. Hugging herself, she slid down the wall until she reached the cold floor where she could do nothing more than try to suppress the flood of emotions that was relentlessly sweeping through her.

Between the slits of the curtains the first rays of sunlight filtered through, hitting directly Sumire's tearful face, announcing the dawn, also announcing the fate of her two friends.

At the realization of this inevitable fact the tears overflowed from her eyes without being able to avoid it.

-What did I do?- she covered her mouth with both hands, trying to stifle the sobs that came out of her uncontrollably.

It was too late to do anything.

Feeling the sudden tiredness on her shoulders like a heavy brick wall she considered that maybe lying down for a few hours would not be a bad idea, she even hoped that she would be able to forget everything about her reality for a while.

For the hundredth time she wanted to be one of the people affected by omnipotence, to be completely ignorant of the reality they were in.

Staggering she made her way to the sofa bed in the room to drop on her face, expecting to fall onto the soft polyester, not expecting something hard to crash against her ribs.

Surprised, she rose from her seat to discover what had upset her, expecting to see perhaps some spring that had slipped out of place, not expecting that instead of being a spring it was actually a small bag of ixtle that had punctured her ribs.

Hesitantly she took the small package in her hands and with trembling hands slowly opened it to find a dagger covered by a leather sheath, but what caught his attention was a sheet of paper carefully folded next to the weapon.

Not knowing what to expect she opened the small paper as if there was a bomb inside, but to her surprise, the only content on it was a letter.

"-A letter?" she opened her eyes in surprise.

"You still have time to do the right thing" so began the note.

The girl ran her fingertips over the perfect, elegant calligraphy that could only belong to someone.

-Sarada!- she gasped in a whisper in a mixture of surprise and confusion What was a letter written by Sarada doing in that place?

"The seventh and his wife are not dead, Kawaki sent them to another dimension, but there is a way we can get them back, I can't do it, I can't stay in this village any longer, so I'm trusting you to do the right thing this time."

She went over and over the written words again and again unable to believe what she read while with one hand she tightly clenched the dagger inside his bag. She stayed in her place for what seemed like hours, where her brain did not stop analyzing and thinking about every possible scenario in which this could end, if what Sarada said was true then she would not have to deal with this all alone, and maybe this way she could finally do something to make amends for all her mistakes of the past years.

Without another thought she stood up and hurried towards the door of her office, but when she was about to open it, it was thrown open by an agitated and annoyed Shikamaru.

-Shikamaru-San!- her hand tightened around the small bag containing the dagger backing up a couple of steps cautiously- What is Hokage-Sama doing here?- it didn't go unnoticed by her the pair of Jōnin accompanying him behind his back setting off an alarm in her head.

For Shikamaru also did not go unnoticed the small bag with the letter that were in the strong grip of the purple hair who noticed where the gaze of the man in front of her was directed at times.

-Sarada escaped and we felt his chakra coming this way...- without letting him finish Sumire ran out of the place with only one goal in mind. The Uzumaki house.

It was her chance to do the right thing.

To be continued