It was the next few days and the Chunin Exams were officially about to begin. We see our group walking with what was team 7. As they were walking they one noticed a group of people following them.

Naruto looked over to see two people one who had some makeup on with what looked like a wrapped up person on his back and a dull blonde girl with two buns.

Sasuke: Why are you following us?

They didn't answer which seemed to tick off Sasuke until...

Naruto: Wait a second....I recognize you two!

This seemed to shock them a bit.

Naruko: You know them brother?

This shocked the group more knowing that Buddha has siblings.

Naruto: Firstly, I'm not your brother. Secondly, yes I do know them. There from the village hidden within the sand.

???: And how do you know exactly?
Asked the dull blonde.

Naruto: Well I went there with my dad a few years back. We were going there to help out some of the people. Specifically a person known as The Demon of the Sand Village.

This shocked the group of how much he knows just from a simple visit. Especially if he knew about HIM.

???: So you really do remember me?
Said a newcomer.

They looked over to see a boy who looked about the same age as everyone else. Only difference is that he has short red hair, wore some make-up and looks to be carrying a massive gourd on his back.

Naruto: GAARA!!
Je exclaimed excitedly.

The person named Garra looked at Naruto with a small but slightly noticeable smile. Something that shocked the group greatly cause they never if ever see Garra smile.

Garra: It's good to see you Naruto. How have you been lately?

Naruto: Could be better if I didn't have to be around these guys. No offense Sasuke.

Sasuke: A bit taken.

Naruto: Anyway we should catch up sometime.

Garra: That we should. But I'm afraid I'll be busy with the chunin exams.

Naruto groaned sadly.

Naruto: Alright. But as soon as this is over we get some grub and I have an important question to ask you.

Garra: Why not ask me now?
He asked.

Naruto: Because, I don't want to distract your mind with my question. It's best for me to wait anyway.

Garra: Alright then, I'll see you around. Let's go Temari, Kankuro.

They flinched a bit at the mention of their name something Naruto seemed to notice. Something didn't feel right to him and he wanted to know what and how he could help them.

After they left our sight Zabuza looked at Naruto with a raised brow.

Zabuza: You know Gaara of the sand?

Naruto: This was WAYYY, before we met.

Haku: Well, could you explain?

Naruto: Sure, back when my dad was still around-

Naruko: But he's still here.

Naruto: What was it about our bet?
Je asked sternly.

Naruko looked down.

Naruto: Anyway, back when my dad was still around we traveled the great nations helped out alot of people in the process too. Then we made our way to the village hidden in the sand....

~Flashback~

We see a 9 year old Naruto and Buddha walking towards the village. As they were about to enter they were stopped by ninjas at the entrance.

Ninja 1: Halt! State your business.

Buddha: Relax, me and my son are just traveling. We happened to hear about some stuff going on in this village and hope to bring some enlightenment.

They looked at eachother then at the, and moved out of the way.

Ninja 1: Just don't get into any trouble.
He said dismissively.

Buddha: You got it.
He said with a two finger salute.

As they walked through the village they often got weird glances from the people but that's to be expected by travelers.

As they were walking they heard a commotio from one of the stores and saw a little boy get thrown out.

Store owner: And stay out you monster!

Buddha and Naruto ran to the boy.

Buddha: Hey kid you ok?

The young boy looked at both Buddha and Naruto onky for Naruto to help him up catchin him by surprise.

Naruto: Whats your name?

Gaara: G-gaara...what about you?
He said nervously.

Naruto: I'm Naruto. And this is my dad.
He said pointing at Buddha who waved at him.

Buddha: Hey kid are you hungry?

Then his stomach rumbled already giving him an answer.

Buddha: Well, there's my answer atleast.

He then stood up and started walking while Naruto was walking while holding Gaaras hand as to not lose him.

They went to one of the restaurants in the village. They sat at a table whole Gaara looked nervous. The workers greeted them but when they saw Gaara they gave him dirty looks.

They ordered some food and talked a bit though it was mostly quite. Till Buddha decided to ask something.

Buddha: So, care to explain what happened in there?

Gaara looked like he didn't want to say anything at all.

Buddha: Look, Gaara. It's best to tell people about what goes on in your life. Otherwise, all thise bottled up emotions will come back and hurt you in more ways then one.

Gaara after a minute caved and told them his life story how he was the vessel for one-tailed beast, to how the people of the village hate him or some occasions try to kill him via assassins. Even the one person who he called family tried to take his life and called him a monster.

Gaara: And that's all...

He looked like he was about to start crying only to be hugged by Naruto. This action seemed to shock him very greatly.

Naruto: I know how you feel...I was in a similar situation with my village. It's alright to cry.

Then he started balling his eyes out and cried. Not just tears of sadness, but they were also tears of pure joy. He was happy that there was someone who knew his pain. His suffering.....his loneliness.

Naruto told Gaara his story about his life and how his family and village treated him before he met Buddha.

Saf to say he was greatly upset for him. While he didn't have any form of family. He understood what it was like to be alone with hardly anyone to go to.

After a while they had to leave only for Naruto to promise Gaara that one day he will see him again. Gaara smiled genuinely for the first time in his youth. Even though the village despises him, he would feel glad that there is someone who he can call a friend.

~Flashback End~

Naruto: After that day I made a promise that I will help him out.

A couple people started to cry due to how sad Gaaras life was. Naruko was crying due to how related those two were. Onky difference is that no one tried to assassinate him....or did some people?

Haku:....I feel so bad for him.

Zabuza: Yeah....

They said not knowing how to respond.

Naruto: Well were burning daylight here so let's get going.

He said as he started walking. Naruto won't admit it...but he always thought of Gaara as a brother. Someone who just needs some help and Naruto- no....Buddha will help.