Chapter 7
Minato could feel tears pricking at his eyes, threatening to fall as he heard his student words, “D-Don't give up on me.”
He stayed quiet, his eyes full of worry. He watched him closely, Kakashi’s hand still on his forearm.
“Shh... It’ll be okay.” The Blonde responded to him, shushing his worries with his calm voice.
Then he watched as his student slowly and calmly drifted off to sleep. Every person has a limit, a point at which, if pushed enough times, they will break. It's an inherent trait and one of the aspect of being a humane. Observing him, he sensed that this was the first time in a very, very long time where he saw his student allowed himself to be vulnerable with someone.
As Kakashi's breathing steadied and his eyelids drooped, Minato remained seated by his side. He couldn't bear to witness his cherished student suffer, both physically and emotionally, without any recollection of their shared experiences.
Minato leaned closer, his voice a gentle whisper, "Kakashi, you may have lost your memories, but you haven't lost me. I won't give up on you."
Silence enveloped the room, broken only by the rhythmic beeping of the medical machines. Minato clenched his fist, determination fueling his resolve. ".one step at a time."
His role as a sensei extended beyond teaching techniques; it was about guiding his students through darkness, supporting them in their most vulnerable moments.
As the night progressed, Minato remained a silent guardian.
It was after a few hours that the door to the hospital room swung open, revealing the Third Hokage, the leader of Konoha. The room were silent as the Hokage entered, his presence commanding respect and reverence.
Minato rose from his seat and bowed. He understood the weight of the Hokage's arrival, recognizing the need for guidance in this moment. The air was pregnant with unspoken questions as Minato waited for the Hokage's words.
With a grave expression, the Third Hokage spoke, his voice filled with compassion and authority.
"Minato, I've come to check on Kakashi's condition. We must decide how best to support him. I propose that, until his memories resurface, Kakashi lives with you."
Minato's eyes widened, a mixture of surprise and concern flooding his face. His mind raced, considering the implications of the Hokage's suggestion. He took a moment to gather his thoughts, his voice with hesitation.
"Hokage-sama, I understand your intentions, but Kakashi's state is…not good. Are we certain this is the best course of action? What if his memories never return?"
The Third Hokage's gaze softened as he placed a comforting hand on Minato's shoulder. He understood the weight of Minato's worries, the burden of responsibility that weighed upon the ninja’s shoulders.
"Minato, the bond between a sensei and student is a powerful one. I have faith in your guidance and believe that your presence can bring safeness to Kakashi, even if his memories remain lost. We must have faith in the strength of our bonds."
He understood the value of offering Kakashi a safe place where he could rebuild his shattered self. With a resolute nod, Minato finally spoke, his voice filled with both conviction and concern. "Hokage-sama, I accept this responsibility. I will do everything in my power to provide Kakashi with the support and care he needs.“
The Third Hokage smiled, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. "I trust in your abilities, Minato."
Then he left.
One hour later, his thoughts consumed by worry, a rustling at the door caught his attention. It was Rin and Obito, Minato's other student, who entered the room slowly, unsure of Kakashi's condition and deeply concerned.
Gently closing the door behind them, Rin approached Minato, her voice filled with worry. "Sensei, how is Kakashi? We're so concerned about him."
Minato's gaze shifted from Kakashi's slumbering form to his concerned students. He offered a weary smile.
"He's resting now, but he's been through unimaginable pain. Kakashi has lost his memories, and he's searching for answers..."
Obito's eyes widened, a sense of helplessness creeping into his voice. "Sensei, is there anything we can do to help him? We can't stand seeing him like this."
Minato's expression softened, his hand reaching out to rest on Obito's shoulder. "We'll find a way, together. Kakashi needs our support now more than ever. Let's show him that he's not alone in this struggle."
The trio gathered around Kakashi's bedside. They vowed to stand by their friend.
And throughout all the interactions, Kakashi's hand remained on Minato's arm.