When I say Naruto and Sasuke not only drive each other to become physically stronger but also more emotionally perceptive and mature, this is what I mean as one of the instances. This post however is focused on Naruto.Ā
The land of the waves arc, specifically the battle with Haku and Sasukeās eventual sacrifice, was definitive for Naruto and Sasukeās relationship since it was the first time they both realized just how important they were to each other and how deeply they cared. Most precious etc etc.Ā
Sasukeās āBody moved on its ownā.Ā
Then Sasuke ādiesā, all hell breaks loose, Naruto wins and Sasuke awakens. Such an emotional moment for both of them. But then, what do they do about it?
Naruto canāt even look at him without blushing and then canāt look at him at all. Complete denial.
We wait for a resolution that never comes. And then we kind of forget about it.Ā
Sasuke pointedly saves Naruto when he knew Naruto could have saved himself (kyuubi mode) but Sasuke is known to save Naruto even when he doesnāt need saving. We also know that Sasuke would rather give some stupid, lame excuse than give Naruto the satisfaction of knowing his true feelings. That and self preservation. So even though itās true that their fate hangs in the balance, I donāt think that is the primary reason why Sasuke saves Naruto. Simply put, he will protect Naruto, no matter what. Thereās just too many precedents and I donāt wanna put those panels here, it will make this post too long.Ā
Kishimoto again repeats the pattern he has been repeating since episode 3, when Sasuke openly called Sakura annoying the first time. Kishi always made Sasuke prioritise Naruto over Sakura.Ā
This emboldens Naruto further more because his feelings for Sasuke have solidified at this point. After everything Naruto went through, after talking to Sasuke every time they meet, Naruto knows for certain that Sasuke cares for him still. Naruto can see through Sasukeās act.
Of course, Naruto cares about Sakura and Kakashi, and he puts their safety before his, as per usual. But this subtext laden interaction is entirely a private conversation for Sasuke and Naruto. Things that Sakura and Kakashi are probably not very clear about. They certainly donāt know about the peculiar phenomenon that is independently moving bodies. And then, ah, I love this :
Yes, Naruto, we all know what you mean..
This is the highly anticipated resolution to the land of waves arc. I mean I was not expecting an outright admission naturally but just one of those sneaky little nuances Kishimoto writes in when it comes to these two. When we had totally forgotten about that moment in the midst of everything else that had happened since.Ā
Not only is this the first time they, or at least Naruto, talks about it, he is totally casual and confident about it.Ā
He is smirking. He is teasing Sasuke. This is their private joke.Ā
His demeanor and attitude towards that moment transforms from complete denial to teasing with humor andā¦okay imma say it, flirting. He is flirting with Sasuke.
But it goes mostly unnoticed.
I have said this before and I will say it again. Kishimoto is a sneaky little bastard.
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