Chapter 8: Camping

I will never say it enough, but thanks to my Beta.
Thanks to my friend She-Who-has-no-name for her help with Japanese words.
Ibara, Ryû and Silk are mine, please do not use!

Thanks for all the awesome reviews I received! I'm so so so glad!
I'm sorry I'm not answering TT

Dear Taloose: I'm so sorry! I couldn't contact you because ff(dot)net doesn't display e-mail address! When you wrote your review and put your address inside, I didn't received it… you have to put it like: lisea18(a)hotmail(dot)com (which is my e-mail address by the way lol).
well you have your answer at the end of the chapter!

oooooooooooooooooooooooooo

"You've been shaming me!"

A whimper and the soft thud of a body collapsing against a wall followed the thundering voice.

"He's avoiding me. Not speaking to me. That's all your fault!"

"I am sorry," came the reply, barely a whisper.

"Don't you dare apologize, you pathetic being! That's why Uchiha-san doesn't like you!"

"Sasuke-sensei doesn't snap at me when I apologize."

A hand lifted in the air stopped just before striking as screeching filled the room. All motions stopped as the two men turned toward the cold beauty on her wheelchair.

"Annabelle," was uttered in a surprised whisper.

"Who are you to dare threaten my child?" said the woman in a voice as cold and cutting as a knife.

Ryû's father wavered a little before moving clumsily toward her, his features soft. "Dear, it's me, your…"

But as soon as the threat to her son vanished nothing else mattered. She passed him without a word, without a glance, rolling her wheelchair with the strength of her arms.

"Ryû, flesh of my flesh, dearest," she said, reaching for him, sliding her fingers in his hair. Ryû looked past her at his silent and slightly bent father.

"What are you looking at? Take care of your mother, worthless child!" screamed his father, slamming the door shut as he saw his wife caress her son's cheek and Ryû finally meeting her gaze.

"Yes Okaa-san?"

"I saw your bag in the corridor, you're leaving me again?" she asked tears in her voice, as a hand roamed in his hair, the other sliding down his arm.

"Yes, Okaa-san. I told you, I have another mission."

She began shivering, hands gripping at her son; slowly she forced him to lean on her, entangling their fingers and pressing her forehead to his.

"Let's make a promise, precious life."

Ryû sighed inwardly and lifted their tangled hands, she smiled at him.

"This life isn't mine. I shall treasure it as it is a gift. I shall not harm the flesh that isn't mine. I shall not put the body that isn't mine in danger. I swear on the blood running through these veins that I will keep this vow. For…"

"For a soul has lost everything to grant this life to you and you shall not betray the trust placed in you. You shall not waste such a gift. This life isn't yours and so you shall not dispose of it as you wish," ended Ryû's mother, releasing her hold and caressing his face, his shoulders, mapping his body with ghostly fingers.

"Lately you're always dirty and bruised. I don't like this team of yours. Don't help them, not even this Silk girl, they aren't worthy of you. Precious life, nothing is worth more than you. You can't forget it, never. Promise me, Ryû, dear life, promise me."

"I promise, Okaa-san," he whispered.

He had a debt far too big. This life wasn't his and he wasn't allowed to protect people if it meant threatening the gift he had received. Someone had lost everything to protect him.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Ibara's mother was bustling about, her many layers of clothes flying around her, really giving the impression that she was one a plump woman. She was helping her son pack. She was putting in his bag everything that he could possibly need, not noticing that her son was taking almost everything out and hiding it under his bed. As if he was really going to need sunglasses, an ice pick, a book on how to survive camping, and other such things.

"And it's getting cold outside now, you absolutely need mittens!"

Ibara shook his head in despair. How was he supposed to hold a kunai with mittens? All his fingers but his thumb would be unusable.

Ibara had a deep scowl on his features as he had been forced to wear a scarf, mittens, and leg warmers. Perfect. And if Ryû would just be so nice as to stop laughing his ass off!

"Look at the bright side, you already had the beret," wheezed Ryû, trying to keep his balance.

As his mother went back to the kitchen to get his bento, Ibara tentatively took a glove off.

"Mrs Jiiiiiiii," yelled Ryû, snickering.

"Ibara, put those gloves back on this moment! You're going to catch a cold!"

oooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Silk checked her bag one last time, making sure that the two forehead protectors were safely in her bag. Then she took Gouz and left, locking the door behind her. Sasuke-sensei would be waiting for her to bring her cat so it wouldn't be lonely during their mission, with eight other felines, it sure wouldn't be.

She arrived to see her senseis ready to leave. Sasuke-sensei dropped Gouz inside and locked the door, almost slamming it on Naruto-sensei's fingers. She trotted behind the two bickering teachers and smiled at their antics. Sasuke-sensei was wearing a turtle-neck. Funny, every time they were going on a long mission he would wear one for a few days and then he wouldn't wear it anymore… and it really seemed to disturb him, he was always tugging at it.

"Morning!" greeted Ibara when he saw them arrive.

"What a beautiful day to go on a mission! The sun is shining making me even more attractive. Look at how its rays reflect on me! Don't you think so Silk?" said Ryû running a hand through his hair, in what was supposed to be a seductive way. (1)

"The only thing about you that shines is your hair" pointed out Silk, walking ahead just behind Sasuke.

"What? That's…" started Ryû.

"So true," finished Sasuke voice laced with amusement as Ryû became grumpy.

"Sasuke-sensei, you're not fair. You always favor Silk!" he whined, a shy smile on his lips.

Naruto crossed his arms behind his head, looking at his team and his lover. It was so nice to go on missions with all of them.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooo

They stopped to pitch the camp. Ryû took the lead of the operation telling Silk that she should let them do it and try to coax Sasuke to give her a Katana lesson instead. Then he added that she needed the exercise because she seemed to have gained some weight. Ibara slapped his scalp for it, but grinned at seeing how much Ryû had progressed.

Naruto motioned Sasuke to go train Silk; after all pitching a tent didn't need five people. Sasuke kissed his knuckles before leaving. Naruto kept an eye on their training; Sasuke was as merciless as ever, not stopping even when it started to rain. But that didn't stop Silk either, quite the contrary.

"It's as if she's stronger when it's raining," pointed out Ryû, sitting next to Naruto. Ibara was cooking under a tent. Two extra people would have increased the risk of them making a mistake and burning down the tent.

"Nice observation, Ryû. She's indeed more concentrated and… her movements are more fluid."

"It's strange, rain should bother her plus the ground gets more slippery," pondered Ryû.

"Maybe that's what's forcing her to concentrate," replied Naruto, leaning on his bed, arms crossed behind his neck. But he knew that wasn't it. Sasuke had told him Silk's story, and Naruto knew the rain made Silk stronger because she saw it as her parents' embrace.

"Sensei?" asked Ryû slowly.

"Yes?"

"He doesn't hate me, right? And he's not avoiding father because of me… right?"

Naruto turned on his side, resting on his elbows. Ryû's bent back faced him and he could see the slight tremor that coursed through his body.

"You annoy him but keep in mind that he cares enough to snap at you. Sasuke's not the kind of person to judge people by their offspring or parents. If he's avoiding Mr Tokage, it's because he can't stand him. What made you think it was your fault?"

Ryû's shoulders dropped even more and he started poking at the tent. As silence stretched and Naruto figured he wouldn't get an answer but…

"I… mother… she… doesn't look at father anymore… and it's because of me… if mother doesn't acknowledge him."

Naruto steadied himself. This was important; Ryû was opening up to him, speaking of something he had never even mentioned before. He had to tread carefully. If he pushed too far the kid might clamp up, but if he didn't grab this opportunity he might never get another one. Thank God he had training with Sasuke; he just had to pray that his techniques would work as well on Ryû.

"Really?" he asked smoothly.

This was just perfect, he wasn't being curious or judging him but he showed some interest, and titillated just enough to make Ryû talk more about it. Once again a long silence answered him but Naruto knew better than to break it, he had to respect Ryû's pace.

"She… for me she…"

"Dinner's readyyyyy!" yelled Ibara.

Naruto bit himself not to scream in frustration, Ryû had bolted up and ran to the other tent. Well at least now he knew that Naruto was there to listen. He stood up and lingered outside, not caring that he was getting wet.

"Go ahead, Silk," he heard Sasuke say before feeling his comforting presence at his side.

"Say, you're avoiding Ryû's father?" asked Naruto, sneaking an arm around Sasuke's waist, feeling thrilled as Sasuke didn't fight him off.

"The man's a pain. Worse than his son and that's to say something. Why?"

"Nothing. Let's eat!" answered Naruto, taking a step before a hand grabbing his wrist stopped him. He turned to face Sasuke, an eyebrow lifted in question.

"It's nothing, I swear," reassured the blond, entering the tent and humming at the delicious scent.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Silk opened her bag and took out what she needed for the night, her hand grazed the two forehead protectors and she bent a little, looking at them, caressing the cold metal, feeling the scratch of the rain design on them.

"What's that?" asked Ryû from over her shoulder.

Silk jumped in surprise and closed her bag, hiding its contents. She bit her lips, worried… was Ryû going to fret about it? To stop trusting her once again?

"Seems like you're hiding important secrets and," began Ryû before catching himself. Taking a deep breath he mumbled, without looking at her, "S-sorry, none of my business."

Silk stared at him dumbfounded, releasing her hold on her bag. She eyed him suspiciously as he cleared his throat.

"Er… well better go to bed," he said sheepishly.

"They are the only memory I have of my parents. I always have them on me," offered Silk as recognition to his efforts.

Ryû turned toward her and started laughing. "That's stupid! It's only a sentimental memory, such a girly thing to do!"

Silk clenched her fists and turned her back to him. He wasn't even worth a comment… and she didn't want him to see that the remark had hit home, already her eyes were watering.

"But you know… I keep my mother's brooch with me… so I guess that's even more laughable… since I'm a guy," added Ryû scratching the back of his head in shame.

He sat next to her and took off his forehead protector from across his chest. He slowly turned it and showed it to Silk. A beautiful brooch was pinned to the back.

"That's why I keep it on my chest… to have the brooch against my heart" he said, putting it back on. "Yeah I know it's sappy," he added, standing up and making his bed. Damn, he had done it again… protecting himself by making fun of others. Sasuke-sensei would have snapped at him.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooo

"He's making progress," murmured Naruto.

"Hn," replied Sasuke.

They had both crept to the side of their tent, straining their ears to listen to Silk and Ryû, Naruto leaning on Sasuke to better hear the whispers.

"He did it again," growled Sasuke as he heard Ryû making fun of Silk.

Naruto slapped a hand on his mouth, "Shhh we will miss something."

The raven's eyebrows twitched and he started nibbling on the restraining hand, glaring at Naruto. Yet he still listened carefully at what was going on. Sounds of feet coming toward them, made them both jump. Hurriedly they dived into their beds, lowering their covers on them, trying to take a normal and carefree position. They heard Ibara enter his tent and released the breath that they had been unconsciously holding.

"We are pathetic," sighed Sasuke.

"It's only a little eavesdropping," argued Naruto grinning sheepishly.

They looked at each other, each one in their own bed, covers up to their chins, guilt written all over their faces. If Ibara had entered, he would have totally found them out. Burying their heads in the pillows they tried to stifle their chuckling.

Sasuke patted the place next to him and Naruto cuddled against him, it had become a habit that his lover always granted him. They heard Silk leave the tent and fifteen minutes later, Ryû snuck out too. Glancing at each other, they rolled on their side, to be able to hear what was going on. Naruto leaning on Sasuke's back, a hand around his waist, their fingers entangled.

"We are beyond redemption," whispered Naruto, Sasuke rolled his eyes.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Ibara came back from his bath. Tomorrow would once again be a traveling day. He then made his bed, slid inside and after saying a "goodnight" went to sleep. Ryû joined him soon after but didn't even bother to close his eyes, he was troubled. He blinked when Silk left the tent. Where was she going?

After waiting for about fifteen minutes, Ryû let his curiosity have the better of him, and he crawled out of bed.

"What are you doing?" asked a sleepy Ibara.

"Nothing," lied Ryû. He wasn't up for a comment about how it wasn't his business and how a man shouldn't be nosy about a woman's business. Silk couldn't have possibly gone to the bathroom for this long, not even if she was constipated! So what could he stumble on? Nothing important for sure… well except if she was taking a bath… he would just have to be careful not to get caught. He had a feeling Silk, Ibara, and Sasuke-sensei wouldn't let him live long enough to say "shit"… Naruto-sensei would understand though.

He poked his head out and blinked. She was just standing next to the tent, under the rain; face lifted to let the water caress her face. So she wasn't exactly taking a bath, more like a shower.

"What are you doing here? You want to catch a cold or something?" he asked, startled.

She glanced at him but didn't move, letting the rain drench her, closing her eyes.

"I like rain… it fells so nice, it washes everything…"

Ryû crooked an eyebrow and successfully prevented himself from asking if she wanted some soap.

Silk looked at him, a gentle smile on her damp lips, drops clinging to her eyelashes like tears. "Yeah, even guys like you," she whispered.

Ryû felt a hard push on his back and stumbled out, right under the rain. Ibara had just thrown him out!

"Stay under it Ryû, you need it… a lot," advised Ibara, grabbing Silk by the arm and pulling her inside the tent, wrapping her in a towel. "Come in Silk, you don't."

Ryû crossed his arms, sulking and made a move to enter the tent when a low voice coming from the other tent stopped him.

"And don't come back in until you're bordering on hypothermia," ordered Sasuke.

"Don't say that, Bastard, he's going to do it for real!" admonished Naruto.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooo

The sun had just erased night's last tears and kept slowly rising in the sky without any clouds to protect the people from its shine. Yet, the forest kept her secrets in the nest of her shadows; nature was slowly stirring to life, nocturnal animals already hidden. The trees were spreading their branches, protecting and concealing the heart of the forest; a small river where the animals drank and enjoyed the coolness of the water. A soft wind let the scent of the still fresh forest spread, brushing the grass and playing with the dead leaves, giving them a second life for a precious moment.

Not too far away a beast was creeping in the shadows, ready to strike its unsuspecting prey. On its guard, eyes locked on its goal, it crawled toward the river, paying close attention not to make a sound. As it readied to pounce, a voice disturbed the peace.

"Naruto, I know you're lurking over there!"

The blond flattened on his stomach, cursing. He had wanted to surprise Sasuke! The kids wouldn't come to this part of the river. Besides, Silk was probably the only one awake, and… there was no bathroom door here. Licking his lips Naruto dashed in the water intending to catch Sasuke on the process. Unfortunately, the raven had already left the water and was now buried up to his eyes in a fluffy towel that covered his whole body. He lazily threw Naruto the soap.

"Awww come on Sasuke!" whined Naruto already knowing it was a lost cause. So much for the unsuspecting prey…

Sasuke was snickering as he rejoined the camp entirely dressed. Silk gave him a curt nod as she left for the river. From the corner of his eyes Sasuke caught another blond trying to sneak behind her. Were all blonds irremediable stupid perverts?

Grabbing Ryû by his collar and lifting him up to his face, he tapped his foot angrily.

"Er… good morning, Sensei" greeted Ryû, still dangling in the air.

And then he felt himself being thrown and hit the tent, that fell on him as he landed hard on the ground. Surprised he yelped and tried to free himself of the fabric, feeling Ibara also fighting to get out. As soon as an eye peered out, he wished he hadn't.

Sasuke had turned on his Sharingan, his katana was drawn and he was crouched in a fighting position. A set of shuriken lied at his feet, visibly dodged. In front of him stood a man dressed in a strange outfit with a big belt covering his stomach. He had grey hair framing his face and the rest was held in a low ponytail. He wore glasses that didn't hide the cold calculating eyes. He realized Sasuke had just saved his life.

"Such cute Genins," said the man, voice dripping sarcasm.

"Kabuto."

Ibara slowly caught a shuriken and was going to cut himself to help in the fight when Sasuke's voice stopped him.

"Stay out of this. This man isn't an opponent for you."

His eyes hadn't even moved from the man! Ibara dropped his weapon and stayed still. They would only be a hassle, no, they were already one.

"Uh oh seems like you care about them."

Sasuke didn't react; it was all to rile him up. He already knew team 5 was a weakness, but he couldn't have possibly avoided it. No need to linger on it. He had accepted it and now he would deal with it. But why wasn't Kabuto attacking? Or rather, why did he come? Kabuto wasn't stupid enough to think that he could beat him, Sasuke had killed Itachi and Kabuto was nowhere near his level. But, Sasuke shouldn't underestimate the man. After all the Akatsuki had recruited him, maybe only because he knew Sasuke, but still… treading carefully would be a good idea.

"The Akatsuki has a proposition for you, Sasuke-kun."

"So you did become an underling. I'm not joining them nor giving them Naruto," answered Sasuke in a monotone.

Kabuto shook his head and Sasuke gripped his sword a little harder. He looked too smug, what did he have in store? Damn and Naruto was alone… Akatsuki members always travelled in pairs. He was wasting time here.

"Oh? But where is the cute little genin girl? Silk isn't it? Wouldn't it be a pity if something happened to her…"

oooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Silk untied her Katana and slowly began to take off her kimono; she was pulling her t-shirt over her head when she felt a tug on her wrist. Being a girl, she was used to trapping the place around her when she took a shower, too many perverts prowled in this world. The tug on her wrist meant someone was approaching. She grabbed her katana.

"Ryû that's better not be you," she warned, expecting to hear the person run away but she didn't.

Breathe. Stay calm. Concentrate. If the intruder didn't run away and wasn't making any sound it meant that whoever it was, it was dangerous. Focus.

Just then a man jumped out of the bushes and swooped down on her, kunai aiming for her arm. Silk didn't move an inch, looking at the man straight in the eyes and mouthed the words, "Seirei Kabe no jutsu!" (phantom wall)

The man passed through her, but didn't fall head first. He caught himself and slashed at her from behind, passing through her once again. Silk dashed to the forest, not waiting to see what was happening. Sasuke-sensei had told her that naming a Jutsu helped in using it. Indeed it did. She had needed less time to concentrate, but still she couldn't keep it up for long, even with her training. This man seemed really strong. She didn't stand a chance.

"Come back here you little…" yelled the man, dashing after her.

If she remembered correctly Naruto sensei should be taking his bath not far from here. She had to reach him.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Sasuke smirked at that. He didn't have to worry about Silk, he had trained her personally. She was clever enough not to do anything stupid plus Naruto was nearby. He trusted him to be able to take care of himself and the girl. He had it all planned it since he was intelligent enough to admit his weaknesses he could find solutions to counter them.

Ryû grabbed Ibara's wrist and yanked him to his feet. They had to help Silk and get out of there to give Sasuke-sensei freedom of movement and opportunity to attack. He was sure the grey-haired man wasn't going to let them go easily, so he was going to attack. Sasuke wouldn't have to make the first move this way.

Kabuto groaned when he saw the kids make a mad dash for the forest. As he went after them, Sasuke took the opportunity to attack, blocking him with his katana. Kabuto dodged the blow and grabbed Sasuke's fist, having to jump backwards to duck the kick but he was not counting on Sasuke using his hands as support to send another kick right to his jaw. He disappeared in a puff of smoke, letting Sasuke's foot connect with a trunk. Kawarimi.

But Sasuke's Sharingan had already warned him and he was already sending shurikens in Kabuto's location, guiding them with steel bonds. He trapped Kabuto on a tree and sent a shuriken right to his heart, but it turned out to only be a Bushin. Chirping filled the air.

Ibara took a fast look behind him and saw Sasuke-sensei trap the man against a tree. And then his eyes widened. He pushed Ryû out of the way as two bushin came after them. He cursed as one slashed at him. He felt blood trickle down his arm, it had been ripped open the whole length. Blocking the next attack with a kunai he dipped his fingers in his blood and began to draw the words for his bloody-rain. Out of the corner of his eye he saw the other bushin going for Ryû. He hoped he would be fine; he couldn't help him right now.

Sasuke rushed on the bushin only needing a brush of his chidori to destroy them. Damn that Kabuto for making so many. He saw two bushins going for the kids. They should be able to deal with them but he shouldn't let himself be distracted! Here was the real Kabuto.

Ryû stumbled on the ground as Ibara pushed him out of the way of a bushin. Yet the latter trailed after him. Ryû tried to keep him at bay by sending shurikens and kunais but to no avail. He couldn't do as well as during training because this was a real situation. He could die. He yelped as the bushin dodged his last weapons and tried to run away. You can't die. Remember this life isn't yours. You mustn't be hurt.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Naruto twitched as he felt a threatening chakra coming from the campsite. Damn! Grabbing his weapons he ran to help with the fight only to collide with Silk, or actually pass right through her. Whoa what a strange feeling. If she was running using her power it meant… yeah bad guy at three o'clock.

"Rasengan!"

Crap the man had disappeared! Where was he hiding? Naruto backed a little, taking in his surroundings. Silk was near him, catching her breath. She was covered in cuts; obviously she hadn't been able to keep up her jutsu all the way. A chill ran up his nape as he felt the man materialize at his back.

"Sensei!" screamed Silk, stabbing the man with a kunai. A hard slap sent her flying against a tree and she coughed up blood.

"You asshole!" yelled Naruto, eyes turning into slits as he gripped the man's neck in a death grip, claws biting into the flesh before sending the Rasengan straight in the man's stomach.

"Silk?" he asked worried, taping her cheek to make her focus on him.

"Fine," she mumbled, eyes crossing a little. She stood up, slightly wavering and they went to see how the other fight was going.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Sasuke plunged his sword right in Kabuto's heart and groaned when another corpse met him. Kakashi had told him about this jutsu. They used another body for their dirty business and so killing him didn't dispel the bushins. Dropping the dead man he materialized at Ibara's side as the kid was dealing with two new clones. In one smooth movement of his katana filled with chidori he took care of them. Ibara sighed with relief and immediately turned toward Ryû. The latter was in a bad position, cornered against a tree and his opponent coming at him; visibly he didn't have any weapons left. Ibara prepared to use his rain but Sasuke's hand stopped him.

"Let him deal with that."

"But…" started Ibara before lowering his hand. Sasuke-sensei wouldn't let Ryû die. It was time to let Ryû do things for himself. He chewed his lip nervously.

He was dead. He was so dead. You mustn't put yourself in danger. The tree was preventing him from escaping and the man was coming right at him. He had no more weapons… maybe he could dash to the side? Ryû felt his legs tremble and soon his whole body was shivering in fear. His body wasn't responding. This life isn't yours. You cannot die. Move, move, move… come on. Don't help other if you can be hurt, sweet life, flee whenever needed, don't fight. His eyes widened when a blow hit him straight on the stomach, making him fall on his knees. You mustn't die. He couldn't flee and nobody was there to help him. Because someone lost everything for you. He saw a kunai raised above his head. You mustn't die. He had to act now. He had to fight because it was the only way. You mustn't die. Now! He made the seals.

"Haku matsuri no jutsu!" (white festival no jutsu)

A white cloud enveloped the bushin and it stopped dead in its tracks, looking disoriented before dispelling. Ryû slid on his side, grabbing his stomach. He saw a katana bury straight in front of him and winced, shaking in fear. Then he saw Sasuke-sensei kneeling in front of him. He felt his hand lay on his stomach and warmth spreading through him, the ache was going away. Ibara was there smiling at him, and he could see Naruto-sensei and Silk too. His mother would be glad that he hadn't died… he was hoping he wouldn't have any marks otherwise she would make a fuss. He felt so tired.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooo

"Handy this little jutsu you learned from Sakura," remarked Naruto as he saw Ibara's cut slowly closing.

"Hn," replied Sasuke letting Naruto bandage the kid since the jutsu was too weak to heal it completely.

Silk was holding her katana looking worriedly at her two team mates, at Ibara getting his arm bandaged and Ryû sleeping next to him. Fortunately they hadn't gotten badly hurt. They only had some cuts and contusions.

"Well Ryû finally showed us what he is capable of. It's a huge progress," said Naruto. It had been a good idea to leave Ryû on his own.

"He has the same power as his father," mentioned Sasuke.

"Huh?"

"Haku matsuri no jutsu. It's the Tokage family's secret jutsu. It deprives adversaries of all their senses for a short period of time," he explained.

"Good thing Ryû's father taught him the seal," sighed Naruto, at least the man had done that much. He didn't know what was going on in this family but he had thought that Mr Tokage wouldn't care enough to teach his son a jutsu. Fortunately he had been wrong.

"It was Kabuto from the Akatsuki. He used a jutsu to control somebody else's body. Visibly the man you fought was just a hired ninja."

"Kabuto is only a tool for them. After all, he's not strong enough for such an organization. He's only an underling. They only use him because he knows the two of us. But why didn't he go after me? Aren't I their target?"

"He asked me to join them. They must be trying to lessen their loss. They want my eyes."

"Yeah… Konoha did kill Sasori, Kazuku, Hidan and you killed Itachi plus Suna is also tracking them down."

Ibara and Silk stared at each other. This seemed to be a really serious matter. They didn't understand what it was all about but obviously Naruto-sensei was in danger and the guy they fought was part of an even more powerful organization.

"This has become an S-class mission," muttered Ryû, who had just woken up. All eyes set on him. "I heard father talk about the Akatsuki."

"We should drop the B-class mission and go back to Konoha," sighed Naruto.

He had been so happy to finally have a mission. Damn those Akatsuki members! Couldn't they just leave him alone?

"We don't have much of a choice; it's too dangerous with them around," agreed Sasuke nodding toward team 5, his frown showing how upset he was.

He wanted to drop the kids off at Konoha and hunt down the organization. They couldn't live with this threat hovering above their heads. He wouldn't let them have Naruto. But he knew the Hokage wouldn't let them hunt Akatsuki.

"So we're going back?" asked Silk.

"Yes. Sorry kids," said Naruto grinning sheepishly.

"It's too dangerous for our level. It would be stupid to continue," said Ibara, standing up and beginning to take down the camp, Silk and Ryû following his lead in silence. It was obvious that they were frustrated but they understood that it was the right choice. Naruto was amazed by their maturity.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooo

When night fell they still hadn't reached Konoha, but since everyone was extenuated from the morning fight and the traveling, they decided to set camp. During the journey, Naruto had praised Ryû for his fight, but the latter hadn't seemed happy about it. He hadn't boasted nor said any stupid comments. He had been quiet for the whole journey. When they were jumping from tree to tree, Ryû had sought Sasuke's company. The raven had let him travel with him, sensing the kid was troubled. Many times Sasuke could have sworn that the boy wanted to say something but had given up.

Even while they ate he was still unusually quiet and afterwards he went straight to sleep. Ibara knew he wasn't sleeping. Was he worried? No, when he was he would speak non-stop. Jeez, for once Ibara would have loved a running commentary, because to tell the truth he was rather apprehensive about all this Akatsuki business. Curling up a little he closed his eyes, he could hear Silk's breathing. She wasn't asleep either.

Suddenly the tent opened and Silk and Ibara bolted to a sitting position, both holding a kunai under their sheets. Ryû didn't move. Naruto grinned reassuringly at them.

"Just so you know, Sasuke called Manda to keep watch and we will sleep with one eye open," he winked at them and left.

Ibara settled back on his bed and smiled as he closed his eyes once again. He felt far more secure and before he knew it, sleep had claimed him.

Ryû heard Ibara's breathing deepening; he had succeeded in falling asleep. Too bad Ryu couldn't do the same. There was too much going on in his head. He couldn't afford to get hurt or die because this life wasn't his but today he had had to save his skin. He couldn't always rely on others, but fighting might get him hurt… he had a contradiction here.

And what about his loved ones? Sasuke had said he was trash because he had the power to save them and didn't use it. Could he risk his life for people he cared for? No one is worth your life. You're not to choose what to do with this life, it's not yours. Yes… but… couldn't he give to someone else the gift he had received? No. That would mean making that person suffer like he did, stealing their life. And wasn't it horrible to have someone die for you? Wouldn't you ask yourself if you deserved it? Wouldn't you wish to be the one who had died instead? It was too horrible. But did he have the right to put himself in danger for someone else? Even if it meant getting hurt, didn't he have at least this small liberty?

Silk was scared; even knowing that Manda was here didn't really help. She didn't want to wake up in the middle of the night because they were under attack. As soon as she closed her eyes she saw men coming to kill her team mates and senseis. She could feel slight tremors shaking her body. Her grip tightened on her katana, it would keep her and her team safe.

"Breathe… don't worry, stay calm… hold on to Kakashi's katana. It may not be as soft as a teddy bear but it will give you strength… see? You're already feeling better…" she tried to reason herself. Yet the feeling didn't last and soon she found herself getting up and going out… if it only would rain.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Sasuke patted Manda as he appeared. The Snake immediately curled around him and pushed him with his head, eyes catching his, a silent request to know what was wrong. Caressing the cool and soft skin Sasuke leaned on his friend.

"I need you to keep watch for us. We're having trouble with the Akatsuki."

"Sleep assured; my subjects and I will keep the place safe," assured Manda, slightly tightening his hold. He could feel the raven's worry through his tense position.

Sasuke took comfort in Manda's presence. He wouldn't let them take Naruto. Never. He wouldn't lose another precious person. He was going to make them suffer; he would tear them to shreds for hurting Naruto. He knew the blond felt responsible. He had issues with the Kyuubi inside him. When the villagers or Mr Tokage attacked him, Naruto never responded. He would only say, "wait until I'm Hokage! You will have to acknowledge me!" The Akatsuki didn't see Naruto as a human being, just as a tool. The villagers saw him as a monster. Sasuke was well placed to know none of that was true.

He would do anything for Naruto. Because he had accepted him as he was. He hadn't tried to change him. He had understood and forgiven everything. Sasuke knew Naruto had reached to him for help and he would gladly take his hand and help him. Naruto had become his everything. Just as he had given his all to beat Itachi, he would give his all to protect his lover.

"Perfect," finally said Sasuke, still caressing and scratching the snake. "Take your real form," he added.

Manda nodded and regretfully parted from his caster. In a puff of smoke he took back his real length and height, only seeing Sasuke as a small point. The raven waved at him and went to his tent, where his blond lover was undoubtedly waiting for him. (2)

Naruto was already lying on his futon, propping on his elbows as soon as Sasuke entered.

"They are worried even though Manda is here," said Naruto.

"It's the first time they've met death and are involved in an S-class situation," shrugged Sasuke. He had been shivering with fear when they met Zabusa and also the first time he met Orochimaru. It was a normal reaction.

Sasuke sat on his futon and turned his back to Naruto, groaning as he felt the latter climbing on him. Soon his head appeared in his field of vision, grinning like an idiot and leaning on his side, one hand resting on the futon in front of Sasuke, the other grabbing his shoulder to keep his balance.

"Aww and my good-night kiss?" he asked, puckering his lips and fluttering his eyelashes.

Sasuke rolled his eyes, gave him a peck and smirking evilly pushed Naruto away by jerking his arm up, making him fall on his ass. Naruto kicked his back as retaliation.

"Bastard."

"I know you. You're going to molest me, dobe," replied Sasuke, not turning toward Naruto, he couldn't let the blond see his amused smirk. He was in a playful mood tonight.

"I wouldn't have but since you're offering…" teased Naruto, suiting the action to the word literally pouncing on Sasuke to try and assault him.

Sasuke of course fought back and they started to squabble, kick, push, grope and roll around until the tent threatened to fall on top of them. Naruto was chuckling madly and Sasuke smiling slightly as they stopped their antics. Naruto was resting between Sasuke's legs, leaning on his palms not to fall on Sasuke. The latter had a leg propped on Naruto's back, his other bent so the knee poked the blond's side, an arm glided around his neck, the other one grabbing his shirt at hip's level. They were both completely dishevelled.

"You know you're in quite compromising position, don't you?" teased Naruto.

It wasn't even that he really wanted sex. It was all for the teasing. He loved their little fights and he was sure Sasuke loved them as much as he did.

"So much for not wanting to get groped," sighed Sasuke, bending Naruto's head to kiss him slowly. Naruto deepened the kiss and glided his hands inside Sasuke's yukata, caressing his side and making him shiver.

"You said you wouldn't," pointed out Sasuke but he wasn't trying to stop the teasing hands. He gasped as Naruto leaned further on him, parting his legs even more.

"That was before," replied Naruto smugly as he kissed Sasuke's shoulder, just at the base of the neck where Orochimaru's seal had been. Sasuke jerked against him, his back arching, letting Naruto lean even more on him. Giving the blond's hands opportunity to slide down his back, pushing the yukata off as much as they could, brushing against his behind as Naruto devoured his neck.

Naruto smiled when Sasuke didn't resist him. On the contrary his hands trailed in his hair and he kept arching to give him more access. Naruto knew what made Sasuke growl with desire, what made him arch, twist and writhe under him, what made him gasp and bite his lip, and even what made him silently scream.

Dark lust filled eyes met equally filled blue ones and for a moment all motions stopped. Naruto was smiling lovingly asking if he really could. Sasuke was glaring in fondness, which meant yes.

"I promise I will be quiet," whispered Naruto as he tugged at Sasuke's pants.

"You'd better," warned Sasuke lifting a little to let Naruto undress him, as they kissed once again.

They both froze dead when they heard someone exit the adjoining tent and then heard Silk greeting Manda explaining that she was too stressed to sleep and just wanted to walk for a bit in front of the tent.

"They must do it on purpose," whined Naruto.

Sasuke stared at him and bit his lip not to snicker. Naruto laid his forehead on Sasuke's and they looked at each other fondly with amused expressions. They disentangled themselves and Sasuke let Naruto cuddle against him.

"I think I found out what to answer when you say you love me," began Sasuke.

The blond pressed harder against him, waiting, his heart beating a little faster.

"You're my everything," whispered Sasuke, bringing Naruto's knuckles to his lips to kiss them.

"Hn," replied Naruto snickering as Sasuke elbowed him. The blond pretended he had something in his eyes, they sure weren't watering because of what Sasuke had said.

One hour later Silk was still pacing up and down. Naruto wasn't sleeping nor was Sasuke. As Naruto began to trail teasing fingers, Sasuke started slapping them away. What was he asking for? Had the blond no shame? Of course he had none!

"Shouldn't you be worried about her being this troubled, huh?" pointed out Sasuke.

Then they heard Silk begin to do push ups, counting softly, "one, huff, two, huff, three…"

"What the hell is she doing?" they both asked and then Naruto sneaked a hand in Sasuke's pants. Sasuke got up bolt upright and shaking off Naruto's grip went out.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Silk began doing push ups. If she wore herself out, she might be able to sleep. It had already been an hour since she had left the tent. She couldn't go to Manda. She didn't want to distract him from his watch.

Suddenly she heard sounds coming from her senseis' tent and froze. Sasuke exited the tent, scowling and kicking something back inside (it couldn't have possibly been Naruto-sensei, right?). Her sensei looked dishevelled and rather annoyed. Had she woken them up? Was she going to be scolded?

Sasuke grabbed her arm and dragged her inside the tent where Naruto-sensei looked at her wide-eyed before starting to sulk and pout; sending reproachful looks toward Sasuke. The latter laid down and patted the place right between Naruto and him. Silk cautiously went to lie down, moving as close as possible to Sasuke.

Sasuke smirked at Naruto as Silk settled next to him, her back to Naruto. There. The dobe wouldn't dare try something with Silk in the tent. As Naruto eyed him with hatred, Sasuke smiled cockily, resting on his side to look at Naruto triumphantly.

Naruto knew what this expression meant. It was the I won, dobe. With her inside you will back off look. Bastard. Still sulking he raised his covers up his chin and ignored Sasuke and Silk. Until he saw a small and trembling hand grip a part of Sasuke's yukata. He saw the raven's eyes widen and a frown mark his features for a moment, he seemed to be fighting himself. Finally he did nothing and the grip on his yukata lessened as Silk drifted to sleep.

"You big softie," mouthed Naruto, receiving a death glare from his lover.

Naruto lifted an eyebrow, tilting his chin in Silk's direction, challenging Sasuke to push her away. Sasuke huffed and leaned his head on his stretched arm, closing his eyes. It gave the impression that he was curling slightly above Silk, a protecting position even if they were not even brushing each other with the exception of the hand gripping the yukata. Naruto grinned and moved a little to grab Sasuke's hand above Silk's head.

"What, you scared?" taunted Sasuke, opening on eye but catching the hand, making small circles on it with his thumb.

"More like horny," replied Naruto cockily.

"Don't you dare," growled Sasuke eyes narrowing.

"Hey, I'm not that perverted," replied Naruto, indignantly. Sasuke gave him such a disbelieving look Naruto had a hard time not laughing. He closed his eyes as Sasuke entangled their fingers.

Morning found them still in this position. Silk had gotten even closer to Sasuke in her sleep. His scent made her feel safe and loved, Naruto-sensei too but… not in the same way. Sasuke and her shared something more. Naruto and Sasuke were still holding each other's hand and between them, next to Silk, rested Ibara and Ryû who had sneaked in during the night after receiving a nod from Naruto and taking Sasuke's grunt as a yes. Of course Ryû seeing Silk's hold on Sasuke's yukata, had tried to do it too. One sharingan eye later he had settled for curling between Silk and Ibara.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Manda had taken the size of a normal snake and curled around Sasuke's body as they traveled, gaining this privilege from having stood watch during the whole night. Naruto was eyeing him suspiciously, soon starting a glaring contest. A vein was starting to pop on Sasuke's head and his eye was twitching in annoyance.

Ryû was back to his usual self, trying to impress Silk and look intelligent, which was a disaster since everything that left his lips was utter stupidity.

"And so I'm the perfect partner for you Silk."

"I don't want moronic children," snapped Silk, not bothering to look at her team mate. Sasuke smirked.

"Oh don't worry they will take after me," replied Ryû, earning a hard slap from Ibara and a snort from Silk.

"That's what is worrying me, you complete idiot," retorted Silk.

"What? Sasuke-sama, it's not true, is it?" yelled Ryû.

"Silk's never been more right," sneered Sasuke.

Manda eagerly nodded in agreement, before licking his lips. Ryû's steps faltered when the "Utter moron, agreed by Sasuke-sama" hit him like a brick on the head and backed away from Silk as he saw the snake's motion. He had a feeling that even if he didn't taste great the snake was itching to eat him.

As he moved to the back toward Ibara he caught something moving overhead and blinked, "oh look a white bird!"

Naruto lifted his head and screamed, "under cover NOW!"

They dove out as the bird swooped down on them and exploded. Naruto snatched Ibara and rolled with him as exploding white millipedes came their way. Ryû had thrown kunai at the ones approaching him, making them explode. Sasuke took care of the birds flying around; using threads of steel to slice them. Silk surveyed the ground to prevent millipedes from reaching them. They were now surrounded by thick smoke.

"Deidara. Uses clay to make explosives in all kinds of forms," summed up Naruto.

Ryû's knees were buckling in fear as he stood back to back with his team mates. He could see Ibara sweating in anxiety and Silk's white knuckles hold on her katana. For once he wasn't the only one freaking out. But that wasn't very comforting, was it?

Suddenly a rumbling sound reached their ears. The ground started to shake and they could hear some trees crashing. Was that the sound of water, of rushing water?

"Jump!" ordered Sasuke, as they leaped on branches, having to hop from tree to tree since some were uprooted by the rushing water. Soon water was everywhere, reaching the upper branches of the tallest trees.

"Hoshigaki Kisame. Water Jutsu. His sword, Samaheda, can only be used by him and it absorbs chakra. Just in case the grey-haired man is Kabuto, medic-nin, chakra scalpels," informed Sasuke.

As soon as he had finished with his explanation a blue skinned man appeared on the water, a huge sword on his shoulder, grinning with all his pointed teeth. On his side was Kabuto, pushing up his glasses and looking smug.

"Art is a bang! Hun!" said excitedly the one called Deidara, circling above them in the sky.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooo

(1) think of L'Oreal lol

(2) Remember when Manda appeared and Orochimaru was standing on him… Orochimaru was really, really small. Since I made Sasuke and Manda pretty close, it wouldn't have been possible with Manda always being so big. All the small scenes I wrote were with a smaller Manda. For me Manda can change his size. I just wanted to explain it so you wouldn't get confused with me changing his size all the time (smile)

He he he aren't I awful to end it here? Well, please review! .

Oh I chose not to use Tobi because we don't know yet what his powers are.

Next chapter: Loss

-Comment-

Dear Taloose:

I was so disgusted not to be able to write to you TT
Well let's answer to your reviews (smile) the first one first:

Don't worry about your critique, it made me realize I was a little too much in my own conception of Sasuke, if I want my readers to follow me, I have to explain them how I see Sasu (smile)
Your "mistake" was perfectly normal. Eri (my Beta) and Simple-minded-idiot (a friend) actually told me it was hard to see that Sasuke cared about Naruto because he was incredibly subtle about it. I had to explain how he worked, and your review made me realize that, so thank you. I'm glad this chapter helped understanding the love between Naru and Sasu.
Don't hesitate to point out if the NaruSasu relationship seems weird to you.

blush thanks (smile) glad to hear I helped you understand Sasuke (at least how I see him), the man is so hard to write lol

blush even redder whoa… er thanks. Glad you love my writing style (smile)

I was so sad to have to kill Itachi but… I just had to. So I found it nice to make him sort of come back with a cat. I believe Sasuke and Itachi have a strong link, even if we still don't know what Itachi really think about his little brother, I wanted the cat to love Sasuke.

I'm your favourite author? I'm touched, I hope I will be able to leave up to your expectations.

Kishimoto would be wondering why the hell I'm putting Naru and Sasu together lol even if he doesn't seem to mind Yaoi this much lol

Thank you for such a kind review (smile)

(second review)
I'm sure you aren't as ignorant as you say and even if it was true I don't think I would mind.
As you know, I didn't receive you e-mail address TT, I gave you mine, you can write to me directly (just put as subject: Taloose).
Unfortunately I will go on holiday pretty soon and I don't know if I will have a good access to internet. So don't worry if you don't receive an answer very fast (if after one month you didn't get one, then send back the mail, because it would mean I didn't received it. I will answer you.)

OO you draw? You're kidding? You would do that? OMG that's one of my dreams! You can't believe how much that would make me happy! (at this point, I went berserk not to have your e-mail lol)

I hope we will succeed in contacting each other (smile)

Sincerely,

Lisea