Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto.

Lyn: Jeez, Sorry for the long wait, Stupid documents… Alright, here we go.


Chapter 9: Forward To The Mission

"So guys, remember, stick to the plan." Ino whispered tensely. They were nearing the Akatsuki Org's base now, and she was dreading this. Oh, don't get her wrong, she didn't hesitate killing Akatsuki members; she was worried for their safety, Naruto's safety, and especially Sasuke's own. If she had to die, she'd accept it like nothing happened. But if it was Sasuke, she shuddered at the thought.

Behind her, her companions were having a different reaction. They were all itching for action, she could tell.

"Pffft. With our teamwork, we'd be unstoppable!" Sakura said, determined.

"Wouldn't want this baby to get wasted!" Tenten said, holding a heavy duty machine gun, with a smug grin on her face.

"We shall defeat them with the power of youth!!" Lee said, punching the air. They all turned to look at him, sweatdropping. Even Ino. Seriously, what was this guy up to with his proclamations of youth?! They were so silent, you would hear a pin drop. Lee broke the silence saying,

"Was my encouraging words not very encouraging? Not a problem, I have a million more encouraging advice for you, all about the wonders of yout—," He was cut off by Shikamaru stuffing his mouth with a handkerchief.

"Shut up, Lee. We're nearing the base." Sasuke muttered, scowling. He was raring for vengeance, badly. Those bloodlusters would pay for killing his brother.

"Sssht." Chouji, who had been silent, was suddenly tense, alert. "We better shut up from this point on, or we could be ambushed."

Hinata nodded. "I wouldn't really be surprised, we're dealing with Akatsuki here, they aren't escape artists for no reason." She added, twisting her fingers around the thin wire she was holding.

"Ya people better be alert now…it's almost showtime." Ino said, grinding her teeth.

"Remember the plan." Sasuke told them all, his tone so cold that Lee flinched. And he added in a whisper to Ino, "Be safe."

Ino nodded, then walked straight ahead. The others found their own hiding spots, and poor Shika was behind a garbage can.

Before Ino could get inside, someone calling her name grabbed her attention. She turned her head, and her face twisted into something between horror and rage.


Lyn: Last chapter next, and it's action! Keep guessing what Ino saw guys. Sorry for the super late update.