Ninjagate

by MikeJV37

During the mission to find the beetle, Naruto and Hinata have a unexpected encounter that will change their world forever, not to mention the rest of the universe. Strong Naruto/Hinata, Naru/Hina plus others?, Fem Kyuubi, lots of OC's, more inside.

11. Joining Together

Ninjagate

Joining Together

By: MikeJV37

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Author's Note: Over the previous 2 chapters I noticed some people getting the wrong impression(s) about this fic. This is a serious AU fic, LOADED with multiple layers of plot, and back stories to give it depth. And the characters, especially the many OC's, are being presented with a sense of realism... which some of you seemed to have missed. If you're expecting a half-ass, every chapter full of action/lemons... go somewhere else. This fic is meant for the readers that want a quality STORY with characters you can care about. I'm not trying to be rude, but if what I just said went over your head, that you're now scratching in confusion... please go read another fic.

BTW: if you flame me, or the fic, even a little... I'll most likely ban you immediately and never give you a second thought. You will not change my mind or get me to change my fic... the only reaction you'll get from me, is you banned from all future contact with me and my fics.

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===Saturday, April 12, 12:21 PM, Leningradskoye Highway===

Eriko shut out the hellish cacophony: wounded motorists, crying out in pain; the screams of frightened women and children; and the sounds, and smell of burning cars... several of them alight because of the now-dead Chechen RPK gunner's spraying of the halted cars. She focused all of her attention on the limo beside her, and motionless body of the woman she had been sent to evaluate... and if necessary, protect.

Eriko holstered her Walther and attempted to open the passenger door... it refused to move. She took a deep breath, reached down, and yanked the car door free, snapping its hinges and flung the door over her head... impaling it in Zil's hard cargo cover behind her. That obstacle gone, she entered the back, knelt beside Irina and gently checked her for a pulse... Eriko let out the breath she had been holding after confirming the woman was alive, then tapped one of the her throat mikes twice.

After hearing three clicks in her ear bud, Eriko gently turned the unconscious woman over, immediately noting, and gently examining the growing bruise on her temple. With sure, firm touches at key points on Irina's body, Eriko watched her limbs twitch, signaling an intact spinal cord.

Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Novikov come around the front of the truck, stepping over the dead man to join her. Without looking back, Eriko commented, "She's alive, no major broken bones, no spinal damage, but she has cranial trauma... extent unknown." Eriko pointed to Irina's feet and added, "Help me ease her out and put her in our car. I'm not going to let her out of my sight until I know she's safe."

As Novikov gripped Irina's legs just below the knees he replied, "Taking her to one of the safe houses could be... problematic. And we don't know the full extent of her injuries..."

As she grasped Irina's shoulders, Eriko shot back, "Balance that with the nature of her foe. Putting her in a Moscow hospital is as good as giving her to Federov... do you disagree?" Eriko gently pushed the unconscious woman, sliding her along the seat towards the opening.

Grigory pulled Irina and replied, "No. His reach is not to be underestimated, nor his influence into the Russian government." After another joint effort, he was able cradle Lebed in his arms and stand upright. "Generál Lebed has enemies who desire the power of Division 8... and everything it would give them access to." He began moving towards their vehicle.

Eriko immediately knew what he was referring to... and what it meant to the Clan. Grigory added, "Nyet. She cannot stay." He looked down at Irina Lebed and adjusted his grasp on her. Grigory gave Eriko a meaningful look. "Better she die now, than in his hands."

Eriko returned his look and replied, "That is not an option, I have a plan... take her to the car and see to her well-being.

"Da Printsessa, it shall be done." Novikov continued towards the BMW.

===April 9, 9:59 AM, Hokage Tower, Konoha===

Tsunade sat in her chair facing the window, arms crossed over her massive chest. Her expression was blank, but inside she was organizing and analyzing everything she'd read from the letters from Hinata, and the only person in the entire universe... formerly the world, that emotionally had her tied in knots... Naruto Uzumaki. Somehow, he'd managed to be both the best thing in her life, and a periodic reminder of her past sin... her abandonment of a pair of dear friend's only child... her godson... Naruto. Tsunade felt that familiar ache resurfacing, and quickly locked it away. Her eyes were drawn to the desk drawer where she kept a bottle... and refocused on the pile of photos in her lap. 'No, I won't go there... not now.'

Tsunade sulked as she recalled the past few days, pouring over numerous dusty scrolls... to no avail. Nothing she had read had given her the slightest clue about the atypical chakra Hinata had discovered. She softly sighed when she heard her door close. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Shizune assuming her regular spot on Tsunade's left... currently her right as she was facing away from her desk, signaling that her final guest had arrived. "Would someone do the honors." Tsunade asked calmly, then neatened the small pile of pictures on her lap.

A moment later Tsunade heard Kurenai's voice and the windows faded into stone walls, the room became dim and shaded, and finally a soft 'whoosh' filled her office. She turned to face her guests and nodded to Kurenai, who was in the left-most chair, then Kakashi Hatake, Shikaku Nara, and 2 women she knew of, but had never been in her office before, Ukemi Aburame and Hakumei Hyuuga. She should of summoned all the Clan Heads, and her top Jonin, but her instincts told her these were the people she needed.

"Thank you all for coming on such short notice. Hakumei, you've been briefed on what you need to know to be here, and that Hinata and Naruto are on a special mission for me." Tsunade stated calmly, noting the very subtle signs in Hakumei's body language.

"Hai Tsunade-sama... while I'll admit that I'm relieved, and happy to learn Hinata is alive, but I'm puzzled as to how I can help you." Hakumei replied, her body language, to a shinobi, telegraphed unease.

Tsunade glanced at Shizune a moment, then opened a drawer in her desk, removed a file and tossed it to the far side of her desk near Hakumei. "Then you haven't been informed of our new medical technique yet." Tsunade replied with a small smile and gestured for her to look at it.

Hakumei's eyebrows went up at the mention of a new medical technique; after getting the go-ahead, she picked up the folder, opened it and began reading. Not 10 seconds later her eyebrows rose again, then scrunched together as her focus sharpened dramatically, her mind racing at the possibilities as she read on. After almost 2 minutes, she closed it and looked at Tsunade, her excitement plain for all to see. "Who created this? It's... brilliant, but it had to have been created by a Hyuuga." Hakumei asked excitedly.

Tsunade's smile grew wider. "Hinata... now do you see why you're here. Your task is to help us understand what Hinata saw... and we know you can keep a secret."

Hakumei glanced at the others present and began to grasp the true scope of this meeting as she knew, basically, what the other attendees brought to the table. "I'm in, I'll do what I can to help." Then added silently. 'Hinata-chan, get stronger and come back alive... you have no idea of the effect losing you had on her.'

"Good. Shizune, pass 'em out." Tsunade said then waited a few moments. "Read these files then I want your insights, thoughts... anything that can help me with what they're doing to their new friends, but one of them in particular... the man called Ric."

"Hai." Shizune replied, retrieving several folders from a drawer in Tsunade's desk and handed each of them a copy. Inside was a 6 page summary on everything Naruto and Hinata had sent them... including a number of copied pictures, both official and candid. She also knew Ukemi, and especially Hakumei, were about to cross the point of no return as both opened their copy of some the most secret documents in Konoha.

For several minutes, silence reigned as everyone read, and pondered, the contents of the folders. Tsunade discreetly, but closely watched the reactions of her subordinates... more open than usual given the privacy of the situation. Puzzlement, surprise, small smiles at certain points and an occasional chuckle from Kakashi. The one exception was Shikaku, his face remained impassive as he read, but his occasional fidget as he sat, told Tsunade that something within the report had caught his interest.

After everyone had finished their reading, Ukemi broke the silence first. "I see now why you resorted to such a level of privacy Fuinjutsu... I tell you, without flattery, that I'm truly honored that you choose me to attend this meeting." She tapped the folder on her lap. "This is unbelievable news, and I see why my husband has kept this a close secret, even from me." She reopened her folder and leafed through the photographs again.

Hakumei spoke next. "Since I know Hinata-sama, I'll not regard this report as the ravings of a madwoman, but even so..." She waved her folder in front of her. "...this turns our understanding of chakra development on it's ear."

"I'm not sure I agree, Hakumei-san." Ukemi replied evenly. "They are not of this world, and we don't even know if they're... like us." She held back using the word alien. The faces she had seen in her folder wouldn't have drawn a second glance on the streets of Konoha... except for some of the more handsome men, and that would have been for an entirely different reason.

Tsunade shrugged. "Who knows, both of you may be right... and we won't know for certain until such time as they visit us, and consent to being examined by our med-nins."

Ukemi wiggled her eyebrows and grinned. "Good point, there's no telling what we could discover in a private examination room."

Kurenai shook her head slowly. "That sounds like something Jiraiya-dono would dream up."

Kakashi chuckled and added, "I'm sure he'll be taking notes... somewhere nearby." Tsunade suppressed the urge to laugh, and kept her face in Hokage-mode until he added, "Not that he peeps on men, mind you." Even Tsunade's control slipped at that, but she did manage to keep her grin as small as possible.

Ukemi giggled, then assumed an Aburame face and tone of voice. "All that aside, the fact that they've successfully learned to mold chakra at such an advanced age does defy established fact... for us."

Tsunade nodded in agreement. "Yes, and then there's the other matter." Shikaku shifted in his chair but remained silent. Tsunade's experienced eyes noted his discomfort. 'He knows... something... but how? None of these people come from our world.'

Hakumei held up her hand. "Before we proceed to that, I have some questions, please." Tsunade nodded and motioned to proceed. "I realize this might be a repetition for some of you here, but could you tell me more about these... people."

Kurenai discerned the Hyuuga's mood and asked, "You're worried about Hinata-san, aren't you?" Hakumei nodded slowly in reply.

Tsunade took the photos from her lap and pushed them towards Hakumei, who eagerly snapped them up and began looking at them. "Without going into too much detail... I'll be happy to talk to you privately later, if you wish it." Hakumei nodded her agreement to the offer. Tsunade continued, "Let's just say that I've gotten a positive impression of them via my correspondence with Shogun; and, that Naruto has never written anything about them that might cast them in an unfavorable light."

Hakumei looked up from the photos. "Well, if these are any indication, she certainly looks happy." '...for a change, thank Kami-sama.' "But who are these people? They certainly don't look like shinobi."

Shikaku pointed at the folder in his lap and replied, "By our reckoning, they're not. They're considered members of their host's military forces, with two exceptions."

Ukemi, curious with what she had seen thus far, asked, "Is that the reason for their odd clothing? They seem to be dressed the same, but in different colors, and what's the meaning..." She held up a photo of Jack and Jeri. "...of all the... objects on their chests?"

Shikaku, happy for the potential change in subject, explained. "The different colors signify which portion of their military force they're in. The color blue denotes air forces..." Shikaku paused when he noted the looks of confusion... and disbelief, on Ukemi and Hakumei faces and elaborated further. "Their world, unlike ours, has developed devices and machines of extraordinary power, complexity, and have machines that fly. And, their knowledge of certain sciences vastly exceeds our own."

Shikaku fingered his goatee in thought and added, "To put it simply, we have chakra and jutsus; they have science, and machines... most of them quite mundane by our reckoning, others... quite deadly." He leaned over and tapped the photos. "They wear distinct tokens of rank since they have a two-tiered system of leadership ." He saw the look on Ukemi's face and replied, "Don't ask, it's a rather bothersome subject that I'm still studying... and debating on the merits of." Shikaku looked at Tsunade and made a request that caught her off guard. "Please show them what Hinata-san has managed to seal and send to us."

Tsunade froze as she considered Shikaku's sudden request. Using an empty storage scroll, Hinata had sent them, seemly without Shogun's knowledge, a fair number of books on disparate subjects. Despite her friendly relationship with SGC, certain shinobi habits, Hinata's love of books (fostered by Sam), and concern for Konoha fueled her actions.

Unknown to them, and unintentionally aiding her in her efforts, was Naruto's near-constant antics, fueled by boredom, and his new-found affection for pecan pie. While Naruto harried and distracted the SP's of Stargate Command, Hinata set about the task of acquiring books, with such ease, that it almost became child's play for her... a skilled kunoichi of Konoha.

After a long moment of internal debate, Tsunade unsealed a bottom drawer in her desk, and pulled out a simple, plain-looking storage scroll. After unrolling it, she deactivated the deadly security seal Jiraiya had created for her, then pushed enough chakra in the scroll to activate the first three storage seals.

After three soft 'pops' and a minor amount of smoke cleared, everyone saw three neat, tall stacks of Earth-style books of different sizes, colors, and thicknesses. Tsunade gave everyone a meaningful stare. "It goes without saying that no discussion of these items will take place outside this room, and likewise... looking at them outside the confines of this office will bring the most dire punishment possible. Understood?"

After everyone, save Shikaku, had acknowledged Tsunade's conditions, she rotated each stack so that they could read the titles on the spines. Exhaling softly, she said, "Go ahead, take a look." Except for Shikaku, who had read, or glanced through, most of them, everyone leaned forward in their chairs and looked over the titles.

Kurenai broke the silence first. "Kami's pink panties, this is... incredible." She looked at Tsunade. "Did Hinata-san do this on her own?" Her heart swelled with pride... the painfully shy and meek Genin she first laid eyes on had finally turned a major corner.

Tsunade grinned. "Yes. She included a note telling me that not even Naruto is aware of her actions, not that she didn't trust him to help, or keep silent. Hinata informed me that she wanted any blame, or punishment should she be caught, to fall solely on her."

Kakashi pulled out a book on dogs and began leafing through it. Without looking up, he said, "For reasoning out and executing this act alone, Hinata-san deserves a Chuunin vest." Kurenai, and the others, voiced their agreement with Kakashi's sentiment.

Tsunade extracted a book, one of her favorites... on anatomy and physiology. "I agree. In fact, as far as I'm concerned, both of them have earned a vest for what they've done for Konoha."

Ukemi eagerly grabbed a book on insects and began leafing through it, marveling at it's detailed information and colorful illustrations. "This is incredible." She looked up from the book. "And all of this is... common knowledge on their world?"

Shikaku answered for Tsunade. "This is only a minor sampling of what Hinata-san saw. In the note I read, Hinata stated that she was told that there are libraries on Earth that are easily half the size of Konoha." All present save for Tsunade and Shizune, looked openly astonished.

Hakumei stared at the biology book she was holding... then put it back in the stack she had gotten it from. "As much as I want to look at this, and many of the others like it, this is not the time and place." She stood up and bowed deeply to Tsunade. "Please consider making a secure room for these books, somewhere. This is too great a treasure to hide in a scroll."

Tsunade nodded in agreement and replied, "Trust me, I've given the matter a great deal of thought. But you're right; this is not the matter at hand." She put her own book back, reluctantly. "We need to get back to business."

Hakumei reopened her folder and held up a full-length color photo of Ric. "Before we discuss the matter of this man's chakra, can someone explain the assorted items he's displaying?"

Shikaku lit a cigarette, in spite of Kurenai's disapproving look and replied, "As to your question, the ribbons and badges on his chest denotes awards, skill ranking, and tokens of valor in combat. As you've undoubtedly noticed, most the people in the report are likewise marked."

Ukemi reopened her folder and went straight to the enclosed photos, again. She commented with a twisted smile, "From the look of it, he and the other man have been rather busy... the younger one has 14 years, the older man has 24 years of service." Ukemi read further, then frowned and added, "The younger one is the superior of the older one?"

Shikaku snickered and replied, "I warned you that their system of ranks was bothersome."

Ukemi shook her in wonder, then sighed. "Well, it must make sense to them... or they would have abandoned it long ago."

Kurenai's eyebrow shot up. "Still, that's more than most veteran Jonin... still on the active list."

Shikaku chuckled and replied, "As a general note, both of them are members of their Special Operations forces, and that all the others represent the best their military has to offer."

Hakumei held up a picture of Daniel. "Then who might this be?"

Tsunade replied, "Believe it or not, he's a scholar attached to the team Naruto and Hinata are a part of. His bio is quite impressive, and he has considerable experience with dealing with different, and... unusual cultures."

Hakumei's slender eyebrows shot up. "A scholar... in a military team?"

Shikaku chuckled and leaned forward in his chair. "I know how you feel, I had the same reaction when I learned of it." He waved his hand at the books on Tsunade's desk and added, "Actually, to my surprise, after reading Shogun's notes to the Hokage, and reading some these books... the culture of the people hosting our Genins apparently value knowledge, and learning, to a considerable degree."

Shikaku pulled out a cigarette and leaned back in his chair. "One of the chief reasons why these people are older than us is that many of them have attended schools, academies, conducted independent scholarship..." He sighed and lit his cigarette. "...and obtained various military skills, and yet more civilian-type skills training. Their organized education systems make our schools and such, look feeble in comparison." Shikaku shook his head tiredly. "Many of the military types in that folder could easily qualify as scholars on our world... just thinking about it is troublesome beyond words."

Kakashi's mask concealed his grin. 'I don't think I've ever heard Shikaku say that much in one go, ever.'

Ukemi held up a color, full-body portrait shot of Jeri and subtly grimaced. "This one reminds me of Daitaro-sensei from my Genin days on Team 8, except for the hair color."

Tsunade's expression changed slightly as she recalled that Jonin's name... and some of the stories she'd heard about him. 'That explains why Ukemi is so skilled... I'll have to find out who her teammates were.'

Hakumei remembered the veteran Jonin in question and commented, "Except he's much older, and still learned to mold chakra... even at that age. However, I did note that Hinata-sama thinks that his ability with Taijutsu, among other things, may be a factor as to why his chakra could be awakened."

After taking a moment to collect her thoughts, Kurenai subtly glanced at Ukemi and Hakumei then replied, "While I admit I've never heard of anyone starting their training so... late, but to add to what Hinata wrote, these people seem to have a unique ability... they aren't limited to an early start like we are. They also seem to have a natural inclination towards Yin-Yang chakra based on the fact that they can learn Taijutsu, seriously or otherwise, at almost any age."

Kurenai added with an amused smile, "There's also a note from Naruto; he gave several examples of people from their world that markedly exceed the norm... there's one in particular he recently discovered and really likes... a Taijutsu Master of legendary skill named... Bruce Lee. Hinata stated that amongst the people listed, this man... Jeri, has chakra similar to mine and Might Guy's. This implies that he has a very powerful affinity for Yin and Yang chakra. But, given the fact that this is all second-hand information, there are parts of this I frankly don't understand. Perhaps Hakumei-san will have better insight on Hinata's notes. Otherwise, I'd have to meet him for a full examination."

"You're a Med nin?" Hakumei asked, slightly surprised.

"No, if I were, I'd qualify as mid D-Rank... I'm a field medic, at best. I know enough to keep someone alive, and set broken bones. I know a few herbal remedies for minor healing and curing some common poisons, but I never learned any medical jutsu." Kurenai replied, slightly embarrassed.

"That's easy to fix, come see me or Tsunade-sama; you easily have the chakra control necessary to be a competent med-nin." Hakumei offered affably.

Tsunade added, "I agree. I'd love to teach you more; we can always use more good med-nins."

Hakumei, still half-leafing through the photos that Tsunade had given her, raised an eyebrow and plucked out a photo. "This is interesting." She presented a picture of Hinata and Ric in the midst of a spar.

Kurenai leaned over and stared at it. "Wait... that's him. And he's dodging an attack of Hinata's?"

Kakashi focused on the picture as well. "Hmm... it looks like they're just playing around, if the looks on their faces is any indication." Silently, Kakashi appraised the photo's scene; he noted that the man... Ric, had leaned outward, and inward, at Hinata's Juuken strike in a seemly awkward stance, but had put himself, he guessed, within easy reach of her. 'He's in a perfect position; if he was holding a weapon...'

He shook his head to clear away the scene he visualized... then noticed that Kurenai was looking at him out of the corner of her eye. 'Damn... I'll be hearing about this later.'

Hakumei turned the photo to look at it again, then frowned. 'If Hiashi, or that bastard Hachiuma saw Hinata like this...' She suppressed a shudder. "No, you don't understand, Hyuuga's don't play at fighting after the age of three... ever." Only Kurenai picked up on the unspoken aspect of Hakumei's comment, and did her best to control any emotions from surfacing on her face.

And Kurenai, like Kakashi, had imagined what might happen next, but had tempered her imagination with a surer knowledge of Hinata's potential quickness... even so, no one willingly closed with a Hyuuga, bare-handed. In their inter-team spars, both Kiba and Shino typically maintained a respectful distance from Hinata. Kiba used dynamic teamwork with Akamaru, and Shino kept his distance and relied on his insect allies to attack her. But neither of them fared well if Hinata, in a rare moment of aggressiveness, moved to close the distance to her opponent.

Shikaku, pondering the image he had briefly looked at, softly commented. "He is dodging her though, and with seeming ease." He dropped his cigarette to the floor and crushed it, an uncomfortable feeling gnawing at him... he had seen something like this before.

Both Tsunade and Ukemi noted the change in atmosphere... until Kakashi remarked on the photo. "Well, that settles one argument."

Hakumei arched an eyebrow. "And what might that be?"

Kurenai could sense the grin under Kakashi's mask. "That Hyuuga's are capable of smiling." Even Hakumei joined in the chorus of sniggers and chuckles.

Tsunade choked off a laugh and replied, "Now that we've solved that mystery, let's look at the rest of them."

Hakumei put the photos back on Tsunade's desk and reopened her folder. "Yes, let's." She went straight to the fifth page of the report. "Alright, this is the one observation by Hinata-sama that I can't support... not without seeing it with my own eyes."

Shikaku tented his fingers under his chin; he had a sinking feeling that he knew which item Hakumei would bring up. "And which one would that be?"

Hakumei looked at the report again before replying. "That she thinks that this man's chakra appears to be molding itself... not to mention the implications of that type of chakra trait."

Kakashi stiffened and started riffing through the report again. "Where does it say that? I don't recall that one."

Tsunade muttered. "Maybe I should have you and Kurenai sit further apart." Kurenai blushed lightly and busied herself with her own folder.

Kakashi ignored Tsunade's quip and looked over the report again. "Hmm... that does sound interesting. Someone with that trait could potentially activate jutsus without using hand seals." He thought about it for a moment and added, "Although I can't be sure of the upper limit, power-wise, that ability could go." Then he recalled Hinata's new technique and looked at Hakumei. "Although a Hyuuga might, if they were observing the process." Hakumei shifted in her chair when she realized everyone was looking at her.

Tsunade spoke first. "Could it be done?"

Hakumei shrugged in reply. "I suppose so, to a certain extent." She glanced at everyone and added, "I don't think it's any great secret that our clan generally doesn't rely on, or employ jutsus beyond those taught within the clan that are linked to the Gentle Fist. That doesn't mean we ignore the Elemental Jutsus, but the early clan leaders choose a different path... to focus on the Gentle Fist." Kakashi nodded to himself; he recalled Obito saying as much... years ago.

Hakumei leaned back in her chair and continued. "While we don't discount the possibilities, or the power of Nature Transformation jutsus... only those who test very high for elemental affinity are considered candidates for additional training." She frowned and added, "The Elders consider anything that takes away from focusing on learning the Juuken as detrimental. So, while you could ask me, or any Hyuuga to observe this man's..." She tapped Ric's photo. "...unique ability, don't expect a qualified analysis of it from any Hyuuga." 'Except for... perhaps, the Grand Elder, Hanako-sama.'

Tsunade sighed and replied, "Pity. I am curious as to just how much that chakra..." She searched for the right word. "...anticipates his... intent." Once again, she noted Shikaku shift in his chair as busied himself with his copy the report.

Ukemi, with a thoughtful face, added, "Hmm... given the fact that she also wrote that she observed his chakra acting independently of him..." She looked at the report again. "...she wrote that it appeared to be scanning the room as he entered it..." Ukemi frowned in thought and added. "Is there a possibility that he's a jinchuur..."

Tsunade interrupted Ukemi's observation; the tone in her voice suddenly stern. "They don't have, nor know of such things." That comment got everyone's undivided attention, for many different reasons. "As a matter of fact, Hinata has commented to me in her scrolls that their host's culture regards the weaponizing of, let alone experimentation on humans as immoral, and expressly forbidden by their laws."

Kakashi stiffened with alarm. "What does that mean for Naruto? They won't..."

Tsunade silenced Kakashi with a wave of her hand. "Naruto is not in any immediate danger... at least not at the hands of his hosts. I cannot say anything further on the matter save this, I have some information from their... doctor. She witnessed an incident that occurred shortly after they arrived on their host's world; a note was given to me via Hinata from this woman." The contents of that note had cost Tsunade more than a little sleep. "I have yet to reply to her questions, but something happened when Naruto went through that damned ring."

Tsunade sighed and added, "I have yet to put any direct questions to Naruto, but I've noted the absence of any complaints about the Kyuubi in his scrolls to me." Her comments was met with open curiosity, and nervousness by everyone... but no one spoke up. She took a deep breath and softened her gaze at Kakashi. "I appreciate your concern for Naruto's well being, but consider this matter closed... for the moment. It will fall on me to consider all that I know, what I think I know, and how to deal with our allies on this subject. Are we clear on this?"

Kakashi kept his reply simple. "As glass, Hokage-sama."

"Excellent." Tsunade let out a small smile and motioned to Kakashi. "Why don't you give us your take on the report's contents."

Kakashi gave the file and photos a final once over then closed his folder. "I've seen every major Bloodline-Limit in every significant Elemental Nation, and a few missing nin. I've seen every Element used in ways most nin can't imagine, and new Elements, like creating Ice, seen shinobi turn into water... and heard about others like, Steel, Lava... even Crystal."

Kakashi looked at his hands and added, "I've copied over 1000 jutsu since I got my Sharingan eye, many of them with the elements I just mentioned, but I've never tried to do most of them. I could give you a detailed report if I saw them in action... but what I can do is give my insights on Naruto's way of thinking and his comments on his new-found companions." He then paused, noting Tsunade's subtle reaction to his observations.

"No offense Tsunade, but I know Naruto better than anyone here... even you. While he has his faults, and unique quirks, his basic skills are sub-par for an academy student, and his knowledge base is even worse... some of which I'm willing to admit is my fault." Kakashi added solemnly and glanced at the floor a moment with his visible right eye.

After a long moment of silence, he continued. "As Tsunade can confirm, Naruto has some traits that, in his own way, make him a genius... which I'm ashamed to say I ignored. Naruto has an uncanny ability to detect what's best referred to as, hostile intent. He needs training on how to react to it, but I've seen Naruto sense attacks coming that most Jonin would miss. I don't know if it's related or not, but while most people see Naruto as being stupid, and oblivious to the obvious... they don't know what Tsunade and I know about Naruto." Kakashi concluded and saw Tsunade suppress a giggle.

"What's that?" Ukemi asked in her usual soft, passive voice. Hakumei leaned forward to see past Ukemi, she'd heard countless stories about Naruto from Hinata; however, there was still a lot about him still unknown to her, and she was honestly curious about him.

"Naruto has better instincts than almost anyone I've ever met in my life... especially in battle. If anyone had bothered to look past his very rough surface and trained him properly during his Academy days... I have no doubt whatsoever that he'd be a Jonin right now." Kakashi replied seriously.

Shikaku's eyes opened all the way; he leaned forward and looked at Kakashi almost in shock. "Would you care to explain that?"

Kakashi thought a few moments. "Tsunade, were the Chuunin Exams recorded?"

"Yes, when things calmed down after the Invasion, I had Shizune get the tapes of the matches. I mainly wanted to check on Naruto's skills... I was a little distracted during his battle with Kabuto." Tsunade answered, then mentally added. 'And I wanted to confirm what it said in his private file the old man left me.'

"Show Shikaku Naruto's matches." He turned to Shikaku. "When you watch them, analyze everything that happens... and keep your emotions out of it. Try looking at his matches like a game of shogi." Kakashi said.

Shikaku leaned back in his chair and pulled lightly on his goatee. "I'll give them a look later." 'After I consider the implications of this report.'

Kurenai went through her folder again. "In spite of Naruto's... issues with writing, his comments and observations concerning his new teammates are quite useful."

Ukemi chuckled under her breath. "Indeed. His manner of expressing himself is quite unique, and amusing." Ukemi ignored the un-amused stare from Tsunade and continued on. "By all accounts, his new companions are silly, serious, highly intelligent and very educated... an interesting, and not quite typical... given the final item, combination."

Kurenai added her thoughts, "And to their credit, they seem quite intent on teaching Naruto and Hinata all manner of things. Naruto also hints that they'll be allowed to visit a nearby civilian settlement, something about going to a... mall, whatever that is."

Kakashi, looking downcast, added. "Naruto also mentioned, quite enthusiastically, that the one man, Jeri, would be teaching him his variety of Taijutsu. Apparently he had rather unflattering observations about Naruto's skill level." He added silently, 'Yet another failing coming back to haunt me.'

Tsunade, easily sensing his mood, commented in an amused tone, "Perhaps he's found a second Might Guy."

Kurenai snorted. "Kami, I hope not. I'm not sure our world is ready for two men like Guy." Everyone laughed at that observation.

Shikaku tapped his report with a finger. "I'm even more curious about their one teammate, the one named Teal'c." Shikaku leafed through the report again. "Naruto called him a... Jaffa, and as best I can make out, he's from a warrior class bred by another race called the... Goa'uld to be servitors and... hosts." Shikaku stared pointedly at Tsunade. "What has Shogun said about this? Frankly, it sounds very dangerous, for us."

Tsunade winced at Shikaku's directness. "I've been given details concerning that matter, but Shogun has stated that he'd rather brief me in person on that issue... and other such things. I suspect that's one of the reasons he's counseled me to keep any activities with our Stargate to a minimum, and to keep a constant guard around it." She noted the look on Shikaku's face, in response to her answer, and decided to speak to him privately on that issue later on.

Tsunade sighed and looked at Ukemi and Hakumei. "And to preempt your requests, it's best that you wait before seeing everything. I still can't believe that I've kept it all a secret this long, I half expect Danzo to come strolling in... and demanding a tour of his own any day now."

Hakumei stirred in her chair. "That sounds more than ominous, concerning both items." The others nodded in agreement.

Tsunade sighed. "Yes it does, but Shogun has told me that their chief enemies are so intent on them via intrigue and combat, that our chance of encountering them is low."

Shikaku frowned. "But not zero. I take it that Shogun has promised full assistance if something... unfortunate happens, yes?"

Tsunade nodded, then opened a desk drawer and laid a thick sheath of documents in front of her. "This is an agreement for a full alliance, which includes military aid, material assistance, and advisers being posted here at Konoha."

Kakashi nodded in accord. "Well, that's good news, and it would explain the sudden arrival, and placement of those 2 men with Naruto and Hinata's team, and obvious difference in background." He pointed at his folder.

Ukemi nodded in agreement and briefly held up two photos. "Precisely. These two men were not part of Naruto and Hinata-sama's original team. The other man, who Naruto named Jack, supposedly knows them from past missions together. In fact... although Naruto's narrative is rather confusing, apparently this man has witnessed..." She waved Jack's photo first, then Ric's. "...the other doing unusual deeds in combat, but refused to offer specific details. Hinata-san sensed no lie in Jack's comment, and in response, the man named Ric declared that it was an issue of 'clan secrets'."

Shikaku felt his stomach roll for a brief moment. He glanced up from his folder at Tsunade. "Is Hinata-san certain about his background?"

Tsunade frowned in thought for several seconds. "Apparently it's a rather complicated issue; according to Hinata-kun, Ric is estranged from his Obasama's clan, and her."

Ukemi immediately perked up. "That sounds rather juicy, what's the issue?"

Tsunade gave Ukemi a sly smile. "If I understand the details correctly, it involves the refusal of a betrothal..." All of the women in the room leaned forward in their chairs. Kakashi and Shikaku discretely exchanged looks... and eye rolls. Tsunade continued on, "And... Hinata-kun has asked me to treat it as a personal matter... so, no gossip for you."

All the women, save Tsunade, groaned in unison... the men wisely chose to remain silent.

Ukemi, wearing an obvious pout, looked at the photo of Ric. "The other matter aside, there is something different about him, his eyes perhaps... granted, he's very easy to look at as men go, but there's a hardness in his eyes..." Ukemi nodded to herself. "This is a man who has killed before, and has felt Kami-sama's breath on his neck. And likewise with the other man... equally so."

Ukemi then held up the photo of Jeri. "He too has the look of a man who had the blood of his foes on him." She looked at Shikaku. "I know what you've said about the world they come from, but I know killers when I see them... and we have more than a few of them in Konoha. I suspect they'll fit in quite nicely here... if they're the ones being sent."

Tsunade, knowing Ukemi's background and her ANBU codename, The Whisper, scribbled a note to herself. 'If anybody could tell, she'd be the one. I'll need more details about them from Shogun, especially since it's obvious that Naruto looks up to them, particularly the fox-haired man.'

Hakumei glanced again at the photos in her folder. "Add to that Hinata-sama's observations that this man Ric was initially very... uncomfortable in the presence of Naruto..." She gave Tsunade a meaningful look. "...not to mention his collapse, and the reaction of his chakra after Naruto created several hundred Shadow Clones, which Hinata-sama witnessed with her Byakuugan."

Ukemi added, "And then there's the matter of his handling of shinobi weapons... in spite of his consistent denial of being a shinobi; and, Hinata-kun's suspicion that he knows... jutsus, of some sort. It's obvious to me that he's received some measure of training from his extended family, who just happen to be a shinobi clan on his world."

Kakashi spoke up. "That was an interesting, and informative read. I hate to admit it, but Naruto's rarely been able to afford top-shelf shinobi tools, and weapons. I even set up a special arrangement at Wolf Claw, but Naruto has never regarded shopping as a positive experience, so getting him into a proper shop almost qualifies as a B-rank mission." He thought back to his days in ANBU as Inu, and a member of the 'Keep an Eye on Naruto' squad and shook his head sadly. "Naruto almost always has had to make do with second-class weapons." 'And undeserved abuse from far too many people.'

Kakashi pulled out and fingered a special order kunai made by Tenten's father. "Everybody here knows what it's like to pick up a strange weapon they haven't trained with, and use it effectively. The fact that this man was capable of a near-center hit with one of Naruto's kunai's says much about him. And on top of that, using a throwing technique only taught to experienced Chuunin, or very talented Genin."

Hakumei nodded her head in agreement. "And, if I didn't know any better, I'd say this man..." She waved Ric's photo again. "...is a natural chakra sensor, and senses, at some level, what Naruto is." Hakumei stood up and began pacing. "I don't know what to say about Hinata-sama's observation that he was 'incomplete', and that she corrected the situation by connecting him to his... chakra. A chakra that supposedly acts of its own accord." She stopped pacing and looked at everyone. "From anyone but Hinata-sama, I would regard all this as the nonsensical ravings of an idiot."

Shikaku willed himself to remain still, his face impassive. 'This can't be possible, they're all dead... and gone.'

"Shikaku." Tsunade said, giving him the floor.

Shikaku looked down at the folder and flipped it open, re-reading several parts to gain himself some time before responding. Silently he reassured himself again, 'No, it can't be true, we were told that no one was spared... no one.' He closed the folder and raised his head. "This amount of information requires further research, and I defer to Hakumei's judgment concerning issues involving observations using the Byakuugan."

Tsunade's eyebrows raised slightly, Shikaku's statement, and subtle body language told her something was bothering him, but he was hiding it very well. "Agreed... Ukemi, you're up."

Ukemi folded her glasses and put them in her pocket. "They're all quite unusual; and, they remind me of the Clans in Konoha and other Elemental Nations." Ukemi stated in a monotone voice, not her usual tone. "The blond, and red-haired woman, the tall man, and man in glasses are all quite remarkable considering their age and the short time they've been using their chakra. The large dark-skinned, and the copper-haired man appear to have uncommon breeding, and both may have partial Bloodline-Limits, or exceptional bloodlines like the Aburame, Nara, Yamanaka and Akimichi Clans."

Ukemi paused a moment, noting everyone's reactions. 'I've also long noted the similarity of Naruto to the Fourth Hokage... but this is not the time, or place, to confront Tsunade about it since the Third's Law is still in place.' "My final comment concerns the man named Ric... his unusual chakra is either a newly evolved Bloodline... or a very old one. I will not say more until I have further information about him." Ukemi silently added, 'And check the Ancient Clan scroll hidden in our vault; a story Shibi-kun once told me about our Clan's history reminds me of this man, Ric.'

"Please keep me informed if you think of anything else worth noting. Your turn Hakumei." Tsunade replied, then nodded to the Hyuuga woman. Shizune's instincts had paid dividends; her examination of Jiraiya had considerably eased Tsunade's worries, and she was shaping into a potential ally within the Hyuuga Clan. Tsunade made a mental note to keep her in the loop, and to go to the hospital later to check on her dear friend.

Hakumei closed her folder and glanced about the room. "I'm not certain I can add anything further, barring a fuller briefing on the details of Hinata-sama's, and Naruto's situation... on a different planet. And, I'd like access to any information you think I need to know." Tsunade responded to the request with a nod, and a smile.

Hakumei laid her folder on Tsunade's desk and looked at the other attendees before continuing. Seeing an opportunity to inform the Hokage, and gain an ally, Hakumei steered the meeting in a new direction. She took a deep breath, and a chance. "I don't think it's any great secret that there's a certain level of tension between you Tsunade-sama, and Hiashi-sama. What you may not know... and I am putting myself at risk by telling you this, is that there are elements within the Council of Elders of our clan that are very unhappy with your... treatment of Hiashi."

Tsunade raised an eyebrow at the sudden change of subject. "What of it? While I do respect and abide by the long-standing policy of a Hokage not meddling in clan affairs, I'm not blind. There are issues involving Hinata-kun's... treatment at the hands of her father." She willed herself not to look at Kurenai... the source of her information concerning Hinata.

Still seated, Hakumei half-bowed to Tsunade. "I understand all that, and I sincerely appreciate your concern for Hinata-sama, but..." Hakumei lowered her voice, in spite of the privacy jutsu being in place. "...I urge caution on your part." She saw the look in Tsunade's eyes and raised her hands to forestall her legendary temper. "While Hiashi's control of the clan's day-to-day affairs is absolute, some of the Elders have his ear far more than they should."

Hakumei took a deep breath and put her life in Tsunade's hands. "Please exercise discretion in handling Hiashi in the future. He does have his pride, and you are unwittingly aiding those who want to further their influence over him."

Before Tsunade could say a word, Shikaku raised a hand to be recognized, and be heard... he added, "Please listen to me, Hokage-sama. As Kakashi-dono would say it, there is an underneath the underneath here. I will say no more than this: Hiashi has changed, I know it to be so. I grew up, and maintained a presence here in Konoha, whereas you have been absent until recently, so the changes are less obvious to you. I sincerely urge you to make peace with Hiashi, somehow, and take a different course in dealing with him in the future."

Shikaku leaned forward in his chair and met Tsunade's eyes. "While it is troublesome beyond words, restoring some of the dignity you took from him at that meeting awhile back will help in your dealings with him, and the Hyuuga Clan. Treating him with respect he is due as a clan head may help deflect any whispers that reach his ears. I don't care how you do it, but renew his respect, and standing amongst the Clan Heads."

Tsunade sat silent for a long moment. What she had hoped for, and achieved to a certain point, was a productive meeting with some answers arising from it. What she hadn't expected was a nebulous warning from a member of Konoha's most prominent clan, not to mention as many new questions as solid answers obtained. Least of all to be half-advised, half-scolded by Shikaku... a man known for his incredible intellect, sound judgment, and few words.

Breathing quietly, but deeply, Tsunade let the skilled kunoichi within, tame and subdue her fiery aspect... the source of her strength, will, and her legendary temper. As she processed what had just happened, Tsunade swiftly grasped the importance of Hakumei's oblique warning... that all was not well within a key clan of Konoha. While it didn't sound like the second coming of Fugaku, which was more than fine with her, it did hint that there was something seriously amiss in the Hyuuga Clan. And as to Shikaku's words... it was one part advice, and one part warning; and, in it's own way, more foreboding.

Choosing the simplest route, she replied. "Thank you for your honest thoughts, views, and advice. Shikaku, remain in your chair please. Hakumei-san, please wait outside..." She turned to Shizune and ordered, "Put her in a private room until I call for her." Then continued on, "I wish further words with you, if I may."

Hakumei swallowed quietly and nodded in agreement. "Hai, Hokage-sama... but make it brief if possible, I don't wish to be observed staying within the Hokage Complex too long."

Tsunade immediately grasped her intent, and the potential risks for her. "Understood." She stood up and nodded to Kurenai, who immediately released the security jutsu. "I'll get word to you all, as needed."

Shortly after everyone had left her office, Tsunade activated a lesser, but still potent security jutsu and sat down. She politely motioned to Shikaku, "Go ahead and have a smoke if you wish, I suspect you want one... badly."

After a nod of thanks, and lighting a butt, he gave Tsunade a wry look. "I don't know what you mean, Tsunade-sama."

"Bullshit." She shot back. "I watched you during the meeting. If I didn't know better, I'd suspect Shibi pranked you by dropping some of his bugs in your shorts... but I'll let that be for the moment." She reached into a desk drawer and pulled out a bottle, and two cups. "So what's up with the Hyuuga's?" She poured some sake into each cup and passed one over to Shikaku.

Shikaku's initial response was a shrug... and after a long moment of thoughtful silence, he replied, "I would think my earlier comment would have been more than enough." At that, he picked up his cup and took a sip.

Tsunade replied, "It was informative, to be sure... but a bit lacking in details." Tsunade knocked her cup back in one go.

Shikaku raised an eyebrow. "As well it should be." He motioned for Tsunade to calm down as her face started to telegraph her temper. "You know how the game works here... or you should. The clans here in Konoha may watch each other, but we don't spy on one another, that's what ANBU is for... now, after the Uchiha's crossed the line." He inserted a meaningful pause. "And what the ANBU does is your business, and your responsibility."

Tsunade sighed and nodded. "True enough."

Shikaku finished his cup and stood up. "Just smooth the path between you and Hiashi, and treat him as befits his status." A flash of insight struck him, evoking a sly smile. 'Perhaps I'm hoping for the wrong outcome.' "Who knows, perhaps something will happen that will preoccupy the Hyuuga's attention... among other things." At that, Shikaku bowed, dispelled the jutsu and walked out... feeling much better than he did a few minutes earlier.

After the door shut, Tsunade took another drink, straight from the bottle. 'Why do I not feel better about the smile that just flashed across his face?'

===Saturday, April 12, 12:55 PM, FSB HQ, Moscow===

He picked up the ringing phone. "Division 8, Generál Lebed's office, Mayór Zelynski speaking." Less than 30 seconds later, he replied, "Confirm it. Has OMON been dispatched?" Twelve seconds later, "Keep me updated, let me know the moment you have any solid news. I... he won't want rumors."

After he hung up the phone, Zelynski rotated his chair to face the black-painted door, his knees trembling. 'What will I tell him?' He reconsidered the news that he'd gotten from his Militsiya contact. 'What can I tell him?' Zelynski took a deep breath and stood up, straightening his uniform before walking towards his boss' door.

===April 9, 12:30 PM, Aburame Estate===

Like all the other major clans, the Aburame's had a vault for their special items, but that was the extent of what was known outside the clan. Its precise location was only known to, and accessible by, the Royal Family, of which Ukemi was the Queen. At the moment she was about 200 yards underground, in a specially created nest.

Ukemi stepped into the main chamber where 2 huge beetles turned slightly, facing her. She opened and dropped her coat, revealing her nude body, then held out her hands, palms up. A small beetle crawled out of each palm, her skin healing instantly behind her familiar's exit, each one flew across the room to a beetle guard. A few moments later her tiny messengers returned as the giant beetles relaxed again. Assured that the vault's protectors were at ease, she picked up her coat, slipped it back on and bowed to each guardian.

Ukemi crossed the room, stopping in front of the far wall, then flashed through a series of hand seals. The sequence complete, she placed her right hand on the wall as she made a series of clicking sounds... a moment later the wall opened, revealing a short hallway. Beyond that and down a staircase-like ramp, Ukemi went down another 20 yards below ground level, then to a 30, by 40, by 20 foot high darkened room and came to a halt.

This time, Ukemi made a shorter sequence of hand seals... causing the room to fill with a pale green light. Given that this was only the second time she stood in this room, Ukemi took the time to look at the mural encompassing all 4 walls, and the ceiling... chronicling the beginnings, and history of the Aburame Clan to the current day. That done, she bowed and crossed to the far end... to a low and long, seamless, black stone block, set against the wall. She bit her right index finger and drew the Aburame Clan symbol with her blood in the center of the smooth top of the block.

Then Ukemi made a new series of clicking sounds and a moment later the blood was absorbed into the stone, causing it to split down the middle and slide open, revealing a 4' long, 1' wide scroll. She lifted it out and the lid closed, securing the other items within. With a great deal of respect, Ukemi laid it on the stone casket, unrolled a few feet of it and began her research.

===April 12, 1:35 PM, 200+ miles West of Moscow===

Eriko looked down at passing landscape... it really was quite beautiful, so peaceful looking, and so at odds with the day's events. She frowned at her own reflection in the window... she had told herself that it couldn't be helped, invoking her diplomatic passport to get her jet off the ground... but it still counted as a tell. Eriko prided herself on carrying out traceless missions, this was turning into anything but that.

Eriko looked away from the window as she sensed Min coming from the aft compartment, seconds later the older of her two companions pushed the curtain aside... a attractive, slender young Asian woman with bobbed reddish-brown hair and gray eyes, dressed in a generic, dark flight attendant's outfit, carrying a covered tray. She gave Min a smile and preemptively announced, "I'm not hungry, Min-chan."

"I made one of your favorites, Eriko-oneesama." Min replied with a smile and uncovered the tray, revealing a very large pastrami and swiss on dark rye bread... complete with a large garlic dill pickle. Min picked up the pickle and added, "With wasabi mayonnaise."

Eriko sighed in surrender and replied. "How's our guest?" She reached for the napkin and laid it on her lap.

Min took a tiny bite of her pickle. "Uschi-chan checked her out. She has a mild concussion, a sizable bruise and some swelling." Min glanced aft and added, "She also gave our guest a mild sedative... just in case. I talked to the pilot, we'll be in Berlin in about two and a half hours."

Eriko spoke past her mouthful of pastrami. "That's good."

Min knelt beside Eriko and gave a searching look. "You're not angry, are you?"

Eriko put down her sandwich and frowned. "Of course not, but I am upset... the mission..." she fell silent.

Min smiled gently and patted Eriko's hand. "No mission is perfect, you know that." Min cocked her head in thought. "You're upset because of her and don't deny it, I've been by your side for 10 years now, and Ursula too."

Eriko shifted her gaze to the jet's window. "That can't be helped. She has his heart... I don't." Eriko felt a tear run down cheek. "He's forgotten about me... and he has her."

Min reached up and wiped away the tear. "You underestimate yourself, and him. All these years Ursula and I have stood beside you... how many times have you told the tale of how you first met Ric-sama? And then you would relate to us the stories that Mae-sama would tell you... and we would always listen, and see the look in your eyes as you spoke of him." She watched Eriko turn further towards the window... but Min could see Eriko's sadness reflected in the glass. "In all those years, your thoughts, and your heart have never wavered... not once." Min gently squeezed Eriko's hand. "That woman has only know him for what... a year? And you measure yourself against that?"

"She's had him... unlike me." Eriko grumped and turned to face Min. "That's the difference."

Min snorted humorously. "What of it? Can you blame her?" Min squeezed Eriko's leg. "You know him better than she ever could... both Uschi and I would jump at the chance. I'd even be content with just preparing him for you." Min suggestively inserted the pickle into her mouth then pulled it out with a 'pop'. "All you need is for Ric-sama to see you... you are one of the most beautiful women in our clan. And he's not forgotten you, I refuse to believe that."

Eriko frowned and toyed with her sandwich. "He remembers a 6 year-old girl, a cry-baby who wasn't strong enough to see him off with a smile."

Min chuckled and replied, "Then it's even more important that when the time comes, you greet him with a smile. Your feelings towards him will reach his heart. Besides, we all know what he is... one woman might capture his affection, but he will always seek, and embrace strength. Show him that you're worthy of his attention... and more importantly..." Min flicked her eyes aft. "...show her that you're willing to be one of his consorts... as should she. That's the reality she has yet to understand, and face."

Min stood up and smiled. "And if honesty fails... try seduction." Min's tongue flicked the end of her pickle for emphasis and grinned, "It worked on me... and Uschi, if I recall correctly."

===April 12, 3:00 PM, Federov Estate, 25 km NE of Moscow===

Maxim Federov laid a gold-plated Luger before him and smiled coldly. "Now Herr Fink, explain why I do not have what I asked for... despite your promises, and the money I've expended thus far."

Fink gathered himself and fingered the folder under his arm... the trump that he hoped would buy off his certain death, the usual punishment for failing more than once. "The operation was up to my source; and, based on what I've learned, he almost pulled it off. In fact, she was all but in his hands and then... a third party appeared and carried her off."

Federov leaned back in his chair. "Do you expect me to believe this... nonsense?"

Fink swallowed and laid a folder on his desk. "This is a copy of the incident report. Publicly, OMON is taking credit for thwarting a terrorist attack." Fink pointed at the folder. "Privately, they are in a panic. An important FSB officer has disappeared; there has been no ransom demand; no video trumpeting her capture, or documenting her rape; nor any discovery of a body. Eye-witnesses described a small group of well-armed, and equally well-trained people, killing all of Umarov's men; and, by their accounts, carried off Irina Lebed." Fink pointed again to the report. "Lebed's bodyguards were both killed after her car successfully stopped. Umarov's people did their job. However, they were thwarted at the final moment."

Mildly curious, Federov grabbed the folder and opened it... the photos atop the report did support Fink's story. He looked at each one carefully, then he got to the last ones, his eyebrows shot up. Federov stabbed a picture with a finger, his voice and face incredulous, "This is not a trick?"

Fink knew which one he was referring to... he still had trouble believing it himself. Fink prayed that it would divert Federov's wrath away from him. He replied in a tired voice, "No Gospodin Federov, it is not. That is the door of a ZIL 114 limo sticking out that truck... it was ripped off it's hinges, there is a photo of..."

Federov found the photo; he whispered, "Bozhe moi." He went back to the documents and checked them again... they were not forgeries whistled up by Fink to save himself, the stamps and embossed marks were genuine. He looked up at Fink. "Any ideas about who they were?"

Fink sighed and shook his head. "No... other than their weapons used NATO ammo, which I regard as a trivial fact. And if I had known about them, they would have been accounted for in my plans." Fink snorted and added, "In fact, if I had known about them, I would have tried to hire them to grab her."

Federov cocked his head and asked, "Not CIA?"

Fink snorted derisively. "The Americans should be that good."

"What about the man you entrusted with this task?" Federov asked.

Fink replied blandly, "I have informed the right people where he can be found. He is a dead man."

Federov nodded with satisfaction and sat quietly for several moments, then looked up. "Contact everyone on my Red List. Tell them I want every international airport in the EU watched, and distribute her photo. Tell them all that I will offer a special reward for her... they will understand what I mean. Also tell the appropriate people on my Gold List to keep an eye on Generál Lebed, mention the same reward." Federov closed the folder and locked it in his desk. He locked eyes with Fink. "Did you learn where she is being sent?" Fink shook his head slowly in reply. "Find out. I want her." He waved his hand dismissively. "Get to work."

Fink silently breathed a quiet sigh of relief, bowed, and quickly departed... his mind already addressing this new puzzle.

===April 9, 4:57 PM, Nara Estate===

He'd struggled all day, taxing his mind to find some reason, some logical explanation for what he'd learned in the meeting this morning in Tsunade's office. He knew Kurenai; Kakashi was a close friend and poker/drinking buddy; he'd met Ukemi a few times through Shibi... and was among the few that knew about her ANBU career; and Hakumei, she seemed to be trustworthy enough... and her warning to Tsunade about the goings-on within her clan had been timely, and more than adequate... he hoped.

He'd watched Hiashi's change in demeanor over the years, but hadn't ascribed to much to it. The death of his wife had hit him very hard... it was understandable, at the time. But that was then, now was another matter... something was happening within the Hyuuga Clan.

He put those thoughts aside and refocused on an impossibility, that some of... them had actually survived. That thought evoked a grim chuckle, if everything he knew was wrong... then the Hyuugas were in for a big surprise, and not of the pleasant variety.

And, he didn't doubt Hakumei's observations concerning Hinata; he'd recalled a memory of her escorting a young Hinata in a park, he had been there with Yoshino and an equally young Shikamaru... the smiles and affection between them was open for all to see. Shikaku frowned as recalled the memory again, that was the year that Hinata's mother died birthing her sister Hanabi... he couldn't recall seeing Hinata smile after that sad day, until he saw the newest photos of her at the meeting.

But in the end, he'd failed to reason away his unease at the things he had read in the folder, so here he was, 10 stories below the Nara Estate, in front of the vault door. Unlike other doors, this one had no lock, handle, or any apparent way to open it. The only feature on it was a horizontal row of 8, 4" amber globes embedded in it, each one a foot apart. Shikaku sighed as he stared at the door, beyond it were many important things... and the Nara clan's darkest secret. Shikaku steeled himself and began a long series of hand seals.

When he finished he held the final seal, with the name of the jutsu unspoken, 8 shadow arms extended forward and outward, then up the door, each directly under a globe. Each shadow grabbed a particular globe at the same time; a moment later the globes lit up in a certain sequence. A few seconds after the final globe lit, the door silently opened about a foot inward.

Shikaku canceled the jutsu, then opened the door just enough to enter the vault and close it shut. Inside the large room were the usual floor-to-ceiling shelves of scrolls, and various Clan artifacts along the side walls. Several tables were set up around the room, but he walked directly to the back wall, then made and held a special hand seal as he began speaking in a dialect of ancient Japanese forgotten long ago by the rest of the world. After 5 minutes and 30 different seals later, he stopped and touched the wall with his right hand. A large seal appeared for a moment, then the wall opened revealing a 4' long scroll resting in a carved stone rack.

Shikaku removed the scroll, went to the nearest table, unrolled over 6' of it and began reading.

===Saturday, April 12, 4:15 PM FSB HQ, Moscow===

Zelynski looked up from his copy of the report detailing the... disappearance of Irina as Razin came in carrying a large bag of Chinese take-out.

As Lebed's bodyguard set down their dinner, he frowned at the Generál's door and asked, "Has he come out yet?" The concern in Razin's voice and eyes, was painfully obvious.

"No. Not since he came back from the incident site." Zelynski looked over his shoulder and grimaced. "Considering the look on his face when he came through that door..." Zelynski nodded at the door Razin had just come through. "...I've steered clear of him since then."

Razin glanced at the report on the Majór's desk. "So, did they catch anybody yet?" He handed over a large chicken fried rice. He cheerfully offered, "If so, I could get them to talk."

Zelynski shuddered at the thought... the old Cossack was very good with the large dagger he kept close at hand, and had never kept his fatherly affection for Irina a secret... woe betide the man who harmed her, or even threatened to. He glanced at the door again. "Do you think you could get him eat something?"

Razin shrugged and set aside a covered tray of Mongolian beef. "I did bring his favorite, but I think I did the old man a better favor by hiding his vodka." Razin raised an eyebrow and pointed. "That's interesting... the light for his private line just lit up."

===Generál Lebed's Private Office, a few moments earlier===

The elder Lebed was busy wearing a path in the carpet, thinking, and rethinking what he had seen with his own eyes... it was a not-so-pretty puzzle. The limo he had sent Irina off in, riddled with bullets holes; the bodies of the two FSB men assigned to escort her; the empty rear seat... completely free of blood stains. The only evidence that she had been there were the scattered flowers that Razin had presented her as she left his office... he had put one in his pocket with a vow to find her... or avenge her.

The men who had ambushed them, dead... gunned down by someone very skilled with the non-Russian weapons they had used... the empty shell casings, obviously a NATO caliber. And the rear door of FSB limo sticking out of the truck that 2 of the ambushers had used to stop it. He shook his head, 'Chechen filth and mysterious saviors... I hope.'

He froze as his private phone rang... only a select few knew that number, even less used it without having something very important to say to him. Lebed doubted that it was Hammond... more often than not, it was he calling the commander of SGC, not the other way around. He held his breath as he reached for it...

"Speak." Tension, and the day's events threw his usual greeting, and manners, out the window.

"Good afternoon, Generál Lebed." Answered a young woman's voice, speaking fluent Russian.

"Who is this... and how did you obtain this number?" The strain of day showed in his voice.

"That... would be telling... and unimportant. What is important is that Kapitán Lebed is very much alive, and safe, with me." The voice remained irritatingly light and pleasant.

Vasiliy Isayovich Lebed's nerves, and voice reaching their breaking point. "What is it that you want!" He drew a ragged breath. "What do you want from me!" At that moment, he was feeling every bit his age...

After a moment of silence, the voice replied, "To come and get her... and for her to continue her journey." Lebed slumped into a close-by chair. In spite of his agitation, he sensed a trace of sadness in the woman's voice.

While there had been a teasing mien in her voice, there wasn't a trace of anger, or malice. "I don't understand." A faint sense of hope grew within him... perhaps Irina was out of danger.

The voice gently sighed. "There's no need to understand... or to thank me." Then there was a heavier sigh. "Were it not for Federov, I would have simply dropped her at your doorstep and be done with it."

Finally grasping the reality that Irinya was safe, Lebed's professional demeanor made a quick comeback. "How do you know of Federov? And why would you care?"

Those questions led to a long moment of silence. Before he had decided that the voice had hung up, she replied, "Those answers would be too great a clue for you... I respect you enough not to treat you lightly."

With the day's tension, and worry cast aside, for the first time since he had gotten the news of the incident... he smiled. "And you truly wish nothing in return for this good deed?"

After a long pause, for the first time, the voice turned stern, and serious. "For you to survive the darkness you will be facing... you did the right thing to send her away."

Lebed considered the voice's oblique warning and nodded to himself. "I see."

"I hope so." Was the whispered reply... then a sigh. "I will give you an address. Send someone you trust without question, or hesitation, to protect and accompany her. I take it you have someone like that on hand?"

Lebed looked at the door to Zelynski's office and smiled. "Yes, I do."

After a long pause, the voice replied. "Good. Now then, as a precaution, I will give instructions on how to get to her... it would be better for you not to trust anyone within the FSB to arrange the trip. Your foe has friends all about you, and in Berlin. You will have to trust me if you wish to recover Irina Lebed." The voice anticipated his concern. "She is safe where I have her now, but that ends the moment she leaves Berlin... I have already done more than I should, or allowed to do."

The elder Lebed moved to his desk, grabbed a piece of paper and picked up a pen. "I understand, and appreciate it more than I can say. I owe you a favor... and not a small one." He posed his pen to begin writing. "Give me the instructions, please."

===April 10, 8:03 PM, Haruno House===

Ino knocked on the door and waited. It'd been longer than she cared to admit since she'd been here... and while getting completely back into Sakura's life was part of why she was there, it wasn't the main reason. Ino just hoped it didn't cost her the bond she finally restored with her childhood friend.

As the front door opened, Ino greeted the opener with a friendly smile.

"Ino-san, what a pleasant surprise... are you here to see Sakura?" Hitomi asked, masking her excitement.

Ino replied with a smile and giggle, "Hai, Hitomi-chan, I've put this off long enough. I miss my favorite flower."

Hitomi stepped back and moved to one side, motioning Ino to enter. She called out, "Sakura-sama, you have a guest."

"Ino-pig!" Sakura exclaimed from the hallway a few moments later. Then they launched into their traditional exchange... stepping closer to each other as they traded words.

"Forehead!"

"Diva!"

"Bookworm!"

"Slut!" Sakura replied, holding out her hands in greeting.

"A-cup wanna-be!" Ino retorted as Sakura stopped in front of her.

"MAN-STEALING BITCH!" Ino and Sakura exclaimed together, then hugged as they broke out laughing.

Almost a minute later Hitomi saw Sakari appear at the mouth of the hallway where Sakura had come from, smirking at the lively pair, then shook her head and walked away, obviously laughing to herself. Hitomi smiled, glad to see Sakura happy, and with her friend again, but the best part was that Sakura and Sakari had finally settled their long-standing dispute.

Sakari had repeatedly tried to get her daughter to quit being a kunoichi, but to her amazement, Sakura had stood up to her, and with no fear, said she'd finally found herself, and her mind, being pushed to its fullest potential. She wouldn't say what she was doing, only that her new job was very important and that she loved it... for Sakari, and to her credit, that was all she needed to hear.

After they calmed down, Hitomi watched Sakura and Ino disappear upstairs.

===Sakura's Bedroom===

As Ino looked at Sakura, her smile vanished. "Does your room have a seal like mine?" Ino asked.

Sakura gently bit her bottom lip, she didn't like the direction this visit might be taking, and hoped she was wrong about why Ino was here. "I'm not in a Clan like you, I..."

"Sakura..." Ino interrupted. "...don't play dumb with me. You know about the request rule, you're a kunoichi now, you can have them placed in your house. Did you do it?"

Sakura sighed and nodded. "Hai, in my bedroom and a few other rooms." Sakura replied, then activated a seal on the wall by the door. A moment later there was a quiet 'whoosh'. Sakura then went to her bed and sat on the side; she gave Ino a guarded smile.

Ino leaned against Sakura's writing desk and sighed, "I think you know why I'm here... and you're mostly right. Still, I'm sorry it's been so long since I've paid you a proper visit, and I know we haven't hung out like we used to... but I'm mainly here..." Ino moved away from the desk. "...to ask you, flat out, what do you know about Naruto and Hinata. Please don't bother trying to lie to me Sakura-chan, you know I'm the only person in the world you can't fool."

Ino walked over to the bed, sat next to Sakura and took her hand. "You know I don't want you to get in trouble, and I promise I won't tell anyone..." She watched Sakura shift away from her, then gently remove hand from hers. Ino took a deep breath and continued. "I've seen the post at Training Area 7, Sakura. Then I heard about you moping around Konoha after Naruto was declared missing. The fact that you didn't do that after Sasuke-emo deserted says much... to me. And I was too busy, and too selfish to notice it then."

Ino got up and knelt in front of Sakura. "But worse than that was me... not coming to you during that time." Ino shook her head. "And that's not what a friend should do, and I'm sorry for that." Ino bowed and added, "But now, that Sakura is gone, thank Kami." Ino gently laid her hands on Sakura's knees. "Admit it, Forehead, because everybody noticed the new you, the one that dragged me around Konoha on a Kage-class shopping spree. That's one heck of mood swing." Ino shifted closer to Sakura. "We both know the only person with that much influence on you... Naruto."

Sakura met the eyes of her kneeling best friend and softly sighed. She knew Ino was right, and had her nailed to the wall. Anyone else she could stand up to, or just lie her way out... both would fail pathetically against Ino. "I won't even try to lie to you Ino-chan... but I can't tell you anything. Silence is the only defense I have... I've been sworn to silence on the matter. I'd rather die, or destroy our friendship forever, than break my vow." Sakura said firmly but sadly and laid her hands atop Ino's.

Ino bit her bottom lip a moment then looked into her friend's teary green eyes, firm with resolve, and slowly shook her head. "There's that look again... the last time I saw it was when you faced me in the Chuunin Exams... the steel hard bitch that I've always known lives inside you, and will make you a great kunoichi... second only to me." Ino added a smile onto the last line.

Sakura smiled coyly and squeezed Ino's hands. "Thank you... Ino-pig."

Ino's smile in reply ran a far second to her inner smile. Sakura's declaration had given her the clue she needed. Ino debated pressing her dear friend further on the matter... then decided against it. She knew where to go to next, the Hokage... only she could have demanded, and gotten an oath so firm that Sakura would stand up to her. Besides, she had a feeling that Sakura would soon realize what she had accidentally done. 'No, let's have a bit of fun instead. I still need to make it up to Sakura for ignoring her when she needed me the most... I can't believe that I've been such a sorry excuse for a friend.' Ino stood up and shrugged her shoulders. "Okay. I understand your position and I won't press the matter."

Sakura smiled... then her eyes went wide with surprise. "Waitaminute... you're giving up? The legendary snoop of Konoha just quit on me?"

"What? You're turning down a win against me?" Ino replied with a slight sly smile.

Sakura eyed Ino warily. "The Ino that seems to know every juicy secret in Konoha, and has just given up on mine..." Her eyes narrowed... then suddenly went wide in alarm. Sakura moaned and threw herself face-down on her bed. She screamed into her pillow and Ino heard her mutter, "I'm such a baka... and a worthless failure."

'Wow, she figured it out pretty damn quick.' Ino smiled sadly and shook her head. She joined Sakura on the bed and gathered her into her arms. Ino whispered into Sakura's ear, "No Forehead... you're anything but a failure." She gently kissed Sakura's ear and added, "You're just no match for me when it comes to finding out secrets, you should know that better than anyone in Konoha."

Sakura shifted in Ino's arms and looked up at Ino. "I do. But I'm still disappointed in myself."

Ino smiled and hugged her best friend. "Don't be. You've kept your oath, just remember next time that saying too little is always better than saying too much." Ino hugged Sakura again. "Actually, I'm very proud of you... I've always been proud of you, never think otherwise."

"Thank you." Sakura wriggled out of Ino's embrace, stood up and went to one of the bookcases in her room and began fiddling with some of her books.

Ino smiled and silently rose from the bed... then crept up on Sakura and grabbed... and groped her. "Aha, I thought so, still a B-cup."

Sakura eeped and froze as Ino pinched her nipples. She quickly mastered her surprise and looked back at Ino with a raised eyebrow, fighting to ignore Ino's surprisingly skilled touch. "Are you coming on to me, Ino-pig?" She added a faint brave smile and swallowed a moan.

Ino grinned lewdly. "Maybe." Then suddenly released her grasp on Sakura's breasts and took a step backwards.

Sakura turned around and gave Ino a suspicious eye. "Since when? The Ino-pig I remember only talked about luring a certain boy into her bed and..."

Ino snorted and waved her hand dismissively. "Oh that... please Forehead, I grew a brain long ago. After that self-absorbed little prick deserted us, I realized what an idiot I had been." She shook her head. "I was so ashamed of myself... I gave up gossiping for 2 whole days!"

Sakura gave Ino a suspicious look. Ino giggled and added, "Okay, it was only one day." They shared a laugh and Ino explained further, "No, I haven't totally changed sides... I still fancy men... real men." Ino made a sour face. "I'm not into boys anymore, I'm through with them."

Sakura's eyebrows shot up. "Since when?" Then she eyed Ino closely. "And you didn't answer my first question."

Ino sighed and flopped gracefully onto Sakura's bed. 'I can't tell her what I truly know, and how I know... and what it did to me.' She shifted her body to a sexy pose. "People change you know. Now take somebody like your Sensei, he's more my type..." She gave Sakura a twisted frown. "...but he's already taken."

Sakura raised an eyebrow. "Kakashi-sensei? You're joking, right?" Then she slipped into gossip-mode when she sensed that her best friend was totally serious. "Who's he with?"

Ino smiled coyly and purred her reply, "Kurenai."

Sakura snorted in disbelief. "Impossible. I thought she couldn't stand him." She shook her head and added, "She's always disapproved of his constant reading of Icha Icha, and has said as much."

Ino giggled and gave her friend a look. "Please, you doubt me?" Ino shifted her pose and wagged her finger at Sakura. "Rule number one, women are entitled to change their minds on anything, and anyone. And, you're forgetting they have something in common now... a missing Genin, or had you over-looked that fact?"

Sakura's face grew sad and she hugged herself. She replied softly, "No, I hadn't."

Ino mentally kicked herself for raising a painful memory so casually. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said it that way." Ino ventured a smile and added, "At any rate, Kakashi's a regular overnighter, besides Anko... they've yet to show up at the same time."

That got Sakura's attention, she looked up in surprise. "Anko too?"

Ino grinned lewdly and replied, "Rumor has it that they share similar... tastes." Ino smiled to herself as Sakura leaned forward in anticipation. She added with a smile, "They both love long, thick snakes... from the front... and behind."

Sakura's eyebrows shot up and covered her butt with both hands. "That sounds a little too painful for my liking." Then she raised an eyebrow and asked, "And what would you know about something like that?"

Ino giggled and gently patted her own derriere meaningfully. "You really should visit the Iron Kimono more often. You'd have a better idea of what sells well in the other part of that shop... Hotaru-aneki has a very complete selection of kunoichi... helpers." She gave Sakura a sensual smile. "I remember being told that a shinobi, by the Sandaime no less, should be ready for anything."

Sakura remembered the Hokage's visit to the Academy, and his lecture to their class. She gave Ino a dubious look. "I don't think he was talking about that."

Ino snorted and shook her head. "Of course not, silly." Ino sat up and rested her chin on her drawn-up knees. "That's entirely up to us." Her face turned serious. "We're kunoichi, and not every foe we face will be shinobi, or what passes for honorable in our world." She paused and toyed with her hair before continuing, "I remember you telling me about your first mission... and how that went." Ino narrowed her eyes at Sakura. "Do I have to ask you what would have happened if someone like Gato had captured you alive?" She watched Sakura's face go pale. "Yes, I know we have the option, and the means to keep that from happening..."

Ino shook her head. "Enough about that. Here I am making you all emo and bringing up bad memories." She smiled apologetically. "I'm a terrible friend, I should be cheering you up and..." Ino smiled mischievously. "...making you feel better."

She gave Sakura a long thoughtful look and smiled. "You love Naruto, don't you?"

Sakura jerked as though Ino had goosed her with an icicle, and a large one at that. She gave Ino a guarded look. "What brought that on?"

Ino gave Sakura a knowing look. "If I'm right, you have a problem on your hands." She held up her hand to silence any reply from her friend. "Hear me out. Now I'm not going to ask you to tell me anything that might compromise your oath, but if... if Naruto is alive and well... somewhere; he's also there with the one female in Konoha that loves him... madly, and completely... Hinata Hyuuga."

Sakura went stiff, and stared at Ino in disbelief. "Hinata...? The Clan Princess of the Hyuuga's?" She shook her head to clear it. "But..."

Ino rolled to her knees, put her hands on her hips and frowned. "But nothing, Forehead! Don't doubt me on this!" Ino pointed a finger at Sakura. "While you were busy beating up the boy you've finally admitted you love... in so many words. The shy, invisible in a crowd, can't put three words together without stuttering, and faints at the sight of Naruto's smile... that Hinata has been stalking, and adoring him... for years." Ino watched her friend go stiff, and pale.

Ino got off the bed and walked towards Sakura. "Theoretically, since I don't know what's happened to Naruto, or Hinata-hime... I could say that your only rival for Naruto's heart has him all to herself." The look of panic in Sakura's eyes told her everything she needed to know. Ino leaned in and poked Sakura in the center of her legendary forehead. "You have a serious problem on your hands, girlfriend."

Sakura sank to the floor... her face the very model of dismay. She looked at Ino with despair. "What do I do? I can't..." Tears began roll down her cheeks.

Ino sighed, knelt down, kissed Sakura on the forehead, and smiled reassuringly. "No time for tears, Forehead. You've got a lot of catching up to do, and some serious competition on your hands." 'I don't dare mention that Hinata makes me look flat in comparison, that would utterly crush her.' "Don't worry, Sakura-chan, Ino's here to save the day." She stood up and yanked Sakura to her feet. "Now then, no more tears, and no more feeling sorry for yourself... that's the path to defeat." Ino pursed her lips in thought. "Now then, first we'll see what's in your closet, then you."

Sakura squeaked out, "Me?"

"Damn right. I need to know what I'm going to be working with, and what needs improving... so to speak." She gave Sakura a playful swat on the butt. "Now, to the closet... no time to waste, no time at all."

As Sakura walked towards her sizable clothes closet, Ino frowned in thought. 'I need to think up the right package of information to convince Tsunade that I'm worthy of being treated seriously. If I do this wrong, she'll just kick me out... if I'm lucky.'

===Saturday, April 12, 8:30 PM, Berlin-Lichtenberg District===

As tired as he was, Razin still marveled at the changes around him. The last time he had been to eastern Berlin, under the control of the USSR and the DDR, it had been a gray and unappealing place. Now it was a lively and well-lit city... even the shell and bullet scars on the buildings, reminders of the 1945 storming of the city were gone. He glanced at the darkened glass barrier dividing him from the driver of the limo taking him to Irinya... and considered the long, convoluted trip that had started at his apartment building.

Shortly after the light on the old man's phone private phone line had gone out, he had been summoned into his boss' office and briefed on a new mission, the one he was in the midst of... and had eagerly taken. Driven to his apartment, he walked in the front door, and had immediately gone to the rear entrance... to an awaiting Benz SUV with darkened windows. From there, with only a pair of silent companions, he was taken by an indirect route to Tula... an hour, and a new tailored suit later, taken to the airport and boarded a small private jet that whisked him to Berlin... and the limo he was riding in.

As the vehicle entered an older, but now attractively restored residential area, Razin suspected that this leg of his odyssey was almost finished. Several minutes, and many turns later, the limo came to a halt. A voice from a hidden speaker announced, "Look to your left... you will see a entrance light come on, then switch off. Walk to that door and enter, the door will be unsecured. Go directly upstairs and enter the first door on your right, there you will find what you seek... do not be alarmed, she is merely asleep. All else will be explained to you later."

After the male voice fell silent, Razin did as he was bid and saw a light turn on, then off... he got out and made his way across the quiet street. As promised, the door opened without issue revealing a dimly-lit hallway, and the stairs. Locking the door behind him, he went upstairs and opened the proper door. Like the rest of the house the room was dimly lit but it was enough for him to see Irinya, still dressed in her dark-blue FSB uniform, laying peacefully on a simple, but sturdy wooden bed. A few steps closer allowed him to see she was breathing normally... and the nasty bruise on her left temple.

Razin sat down on the bed and commented softly with a sad smile, "Once again, trouble follows you like a hungry wolf." A series of memories flashed through his mind... the cheerful little girl he first met; an older version, smiling as she danced on a stage; a sad young woman laying flowers on a pair of graves... He let out a sigh and put those memories aside, he needed to focus on the matter at hand. He started as a woman's voice, speaking in Russian, came from everywhere... an nowhere.

"As you can see, she is unharmed. On the nightstand next to the bed, you will see a large envelope. Inside are papers, plane tickets and passports." Razin noted the envelope and reached for it; the voice continued, "Do not attempt to awaken her, the sedative should be wearing off shortly, please let her adjust to that naturally."

Razin looked about as he opened the envelope and asked, "Is she all right?"

The impersonal tone of the voice lightened, "As best as we can tell without taking her to a hospital, yes. She appears to have a mild concussion, so be mindful of that... her balance, and perhaps her ability to focus may be impaired." Razin raised a bushy eyebrow as a light came on in an attached bathroom... seemingly by itself. "There are various items in the bathroom for her needs... and yours. In the closet behind you is a change of clothes for her, and a purse with concealed pockets, for all your real papers."

The voice added a warning tone. "I strongly suggest that she not appear in public wearing her uniform... he has enlisted others to watch for her."

Razin growled under his breath, "No one will harm my Irishka... not while I still breathe."

"Do not worry on that account, you will be watched... and protected, until you have boarded your flight. From there, it will all be on you." Razin sensed a smile in the voice... until the last sentence. The voice added, "Until then, rest. And, if you desire it, there is food in the kitchen below you." The smile came back in voice. "I presume she'll want something to eat upon awakening."

Razin chuckled to himself; he suspected that the voice had never seen the results of a hungry Irina encountering a table of food... in an informal setting.

===April 10, 10:00 AM, Hokage Tower===

Shizune looked up from her desk when the hall door opened and Shikaku walked in. The look on his face was subtle, even by Jonin standards, but to her it was a big sign saying 'I'm about to fuck up your world.' Given yesterday's meeting, she had a fair idea why he had returned. Shizune stood and headed for Tsunade's door. "I'll inform the Hokage you're here."

Shikaku stopped near her desk as she spoke, and nodded in reply. The scroll in his vest pouch felt like it was burning a hole in his chest... and it was only part of the information he had gleaned from his reading of the clan's Ancient Scroll. What he'd discovered, added to what he learned in the meeting, nearly blew his mind... he didn't sleep a wink last night because of it. Plus, Yoshino was starting to act a little odd... there was something familiar about her behavior, he just couldn't remember what.

A moment later Shizune returned and sent him in.

===Tsunade's Office===

Shikaku stopped in front of her desk. He asked firmly, "Seal the room."

Tsunade raised an eyebrow. This wasn't like him, but a look at his face told her he hadn't slept in a while, which for him, or any Nara, was serious. She nodded, activated the built in Sound and Security Seal then motioned for him to sit.

Shikaku removed the scroll from his vest and tossed it to her. "Copied last night from our Ancient Scroll."

Tsunade's eyebrows shot up. Every major clan in Konoha had an Ancient Scroll from their clan founders long before Konoha had been established, never leaving the safety of their vaults, nor anything else in them, save at dire need. And every last clan would willingly fight to the death, to the last member, to protect their scroll. Tsunade took a deep breath, then nervously unrolled the first 3' of the scroll and began reading.

About 40 seconds later her head snapped up. "KAMI'S PINK PANTIES!" Tsunade exclaimed in shock. "This is a direct copy, word for word?" She asked nervously... Shikaku nodded in reply. "No wonder you look like shit... this is..."

"I know... and it gets better. Keep reading." Shikaku replied dryly and let out a tired sigh.

Tsunade went back to reading... the further along she read, the more intrigued, amazed... and aware that there were significant gaps in Shikaku's copy. But even with the gaps, what she had before her was more than enough food for thought. As she read on, her considerable intellect began to fill in those gaps. There was no possible way that such a kekkei-genkai could have existed, and not have a clan built around it. And then there was another aspect of this conundrum... with all her medical background, and learning, she had never read of, nor heard of, even the vaguest rumor of this blood-line.

And yet... She slapped her desk. "Alright Shikaku, come clean with me. How is it that your clan knows so much about this..." She looked back down at the scroll and found it. "...blood-line, the Gogyo-mon?" She tapped the scroll with her index finger. "This is not a Nara Clan trait... or at least none that I've ever read, or heard of."

Shikaku opened his tired eyes and made a show of lighting a cigarette before replying. "No... it's not." He shut his eyes and sighed heavily. "And that's why our clan still exists."

Tsunade raised an eyebrow in surprise, then replied. "And I take it that the clan that had this blood-line doesn't exist anymore... a clan I've never heard of... and is obviously not as extinct as you thought it was."

Shikaku re-opened, and narrowed his eyes at Tsunade. 'She doesn't know about them?' He took a pull on his smoke. 'Could it be that they didn't tell her...?' Shikaku nodded to himself. 'No, they wouldn't have... Tobirama made peace, and partnered with the Uchiha and Hyuuga's to create Konoha.' He sat up and replied, "No, apparently not. Even so, I'd keep reading if I were you... you haven't gotten to best parts yet."

Tsunade glanced down at the scroll and noticed that she'd barely read a third of it. She groaned and knew she was in for a very long day. Another scroll would be dropped in her lap by Ukemi later on this afternoon.

===Sunday, April 13, 01:15 GMT, LA Flight 73 (3 hours after departure), Mid-Atlantic===

The co-pilot looked up from radar display he'd studying for the last few minutes. "Hey Steve."

The pilot of the Lufthansa 747 out of Berlin took a sip of coffee and glanced to his right. "What's up, Falk?"

"I've been watching that weather front developing on our flight path... the one they mentioned at Flight Ops."

The pilot leaned over and peeked. "Hmm... that doesn't look good. What do you think?"

The co-pilot rubbed his chin and frowned. "I'd say we have about an hour before we hit the leading edge... I don't like the way its shaping up. I think we can climb over the worst of it... if ATC gives us permission to go to angels 37 and a half."

The pilot looked at the display again and frowned. "I'll get on horn, hopefully there's some east-bounds in the neighborhood... it would be nice to get a heads-up before we hit that bitch head-on."

===April 11, 8:30 AM, Hokage Tower===

"I need to see Tsunade-sama." Ino said.

Shizune replied, "Tsunade has been locked in her office since 6:00 this morning and I was told very clearly that she doesn't want to be bothered until 11:00 at least when she has lunch, so please come back this afternoon. If you wish, you can make an appointment to see her."

"She must have a list of people she'll see, right?" Ino asked. Shizune nodded after a long moment. "Then I suggest you add me to that list." Ino reached into her hip pouch, pulled out a thick envelop and dropped it her desk. "That should prove that I'm worth the Hokage's time to talk to." Ino pointed at the envelope and gave Shizune a thin smile. "Go ahead and look."

Shizune stared at the envelope for a few seconds before picking it up and opening it. As she unfolded the papers, a photograph fluttered out and fell face-down, Shizune picked up the photo and looked at it... then immediately put in her pocket. She looked up, wide-eyed at Ino. "You didn't..."

Ino smiled in reply and answered, "Yes, I'm that good."

Shizune turned her attention back to the documents, doing her best to ignore what she had seen. She quickly scanned each page, her eyes narrowing as she glanced over them. Shizune looked up at Ino and asked in the gravest tone she could muster, "And your willing to swear to all of this?"

Ino nodded in reply and added, "And that's only part of the good stuff... there's more, much more." Ino contemplated dropping another serious bit of info on her... than decided to hold back, she recalled a comment Shika-chan had made once in a shogi match with Asuma-sensei, just before he crushed him, 'Only attack with a major piece to hinder your opponent's choices, or to fatally compromise his defenses.' "You didn't think I'd try to gain the Hokage's attention with news of who's sleeping with whom... I trust."

Shizune grimaced at that tidbit, she didn't even want to guess who's life Ino could turn inside-out. She replied in a low voice, "Even that isn't a subject for casual discussion, depending on who's involved."

"You're right. Even I know the difference between gossip and... black gossip." Ino replied in an equally low voice.

"I see. If you understand the full implications of what might happen next, I'll talk to Tsunade-sama." Ino nodded her assent. "Wait here." Shizune said, pressed a button on her desk, then entered the Hokage's office, carrying the folded papers and closed the door behind her.

Ino sighed with relief. She wasn't bluffing, but she didn't want to reveal too much... the truly explosive info... or at least she hoped it was, was her final trump card. She fully realized that she was entering the game at, or near-ANBU level. Ino had long decided, after seeing her dearest friend disappear in a swirl of leaves... supposedly into Hokage Monument, that she wasn't going to get left behind.

For that to happen on the heels of her less than sparkling performance in the Chuunin Exams would be too much to bear. Everyone around her was moving forward, towards some unknown higher stage... her pride as a Yamanaka, and the heir at that, urged Ino to match her peers.

Ino began to pump up her courage; her final gambit would propel her into dangerous territory... Tsunade and Naruto. She had yet to crack Naruto's secret... that was a high iron wall with no breaks in it, but she had long discerned Tsunade-sama's more than casual affection for the former goofy prankster of Konoha. The comments of her father's best friends, usually fueled by too much sake, and what she had learned of his role in the invasion by Oto and Suna... that was the tipping point for her.

She finally understood why Forehead felt the way she did. The Dead Last-san of their Academy days was actually a quiet... no, scratch that... the loud and brash Genin of her class was every bit the hero he'd proclaimed he would be.

Something momentous had happened during that trip with Jiraiya-sama, the one that returned the Slug Sannin to Konoha, she was certain of that. But that was a tangled knot that she had deliberately set aside, for the moment. Now she'd be jumping into a black pit, bare-handed... and possibly flicking the nose of the deadliest kunoichi in all the Elemental Nations. Ino willed her legs to remain still as she saw the door to the Hokage's office open. There was no turning back now, not after she'd handed off those papers.

Shizune came out, her face revealing nothing. She closed to within arm's length and announced, "Go on in Ino... and good luck."

Ino took a deep breath and walked past Shizune, softly replying, "Thanks, I'll need it." Then disappeared into Tsunade's office.

Shizune went back to her desk and activated a special seal. A moment later 2 ANBU appeared in a swirl of leaves. "Guard that door, this is an S-Rank priority on my authority. No one enters that office, I don't care who it is. If anyone disturbs her... you can explain your failure to the Hokage." Shizune said in her sternest voice then returned to her desk, resuming her work... putting the memory of that photo that Tsunade had quickly confiscated, in a private place... for later.

The 2 ANBU nodded and immediately took their places on either side of the door.

"Did anyone important show up?" Ox asked casually in a low voice.

"If Tsunade-sama is in there, it doesn't matter who the other person is." Horse replied evenly.

Ox just nodded in agreement. He and Horse were 2 of the Senior ANBU; both had over 20 years experience, and had earned their position as the Hokage's personal guards. That translated into... do as told, don't question an order, or ask questions. Besides, he'd been around in the old days and seen Tsunade in action... she was a lot stronger now. He'd be hard-pressed to imagine anyone walking in that room that the Hokage couldn't handle.

===A Moment Ago, Tsunade's Office===

Ino walked in and as she shut the door behind her, saw Tsunade put the papers she'd given Shizune being dropped in a drawer. Tsunade locked it, then stared across her desk at Ino and motioned her to sit in a chair directly in front of her desk. Ino crossed the room and sat down, looking as confident as she could muster.

Tsunade leaned forward and rested her chin on her folded hands, her face carefully neutral. Her voice matched that face as dhe spoke. "I trust, Genin Yamanaka, that you're ready for what will happen next." Tsunade leaned back in her chair, crossed her arms over her monumental bust and added, "What I read in those papers was bad enough, Shizune hinting to me that you had further explosive tags to slap on my ass, at a time when I have more troubles than the Wolf's Claw has sharp, pointy objects, has not improved my mood."

She gave Ino a cold, thin smile and added, "Don't misunderstand me, I have scant tolerance for corruption, and potential threats against Konoha. But this..." Tsunade pointed a finger at her desk. "... is the sort of material I would expect from my ANBU... not from some fresh-faced Genin who barely distinguished herself in the last Chuunin Exam, to present to me." She paused and sharpened her gaze on Ino. Who, to her credit, remained utterly still and stone-faced, in spite of her Hokage's unflattering observation.

Tsunade sighed softly. "Now then, the question I have to ask myself is this... why now? I have the distinct impression that what you wrote down has been gathered over a significant period of time." Tsunade added silently, 'Where was this talent and determination hiding during the exam, Ino? And what in Kami's name possessed you to darken my door now?'

"I'll give one chance to explain yourself, to my satisfaction, and make it quick before I lose my remaining patience." Tsunade stated coldly. She knew she was being harsh, but the information gained from Shikaku and Ukemi's clan scrolls had robbed her of a night's sleep... the bloodline issue, among other things, was starting to get to her.

Ino flinched, took a breath and summoned all her courage. "I want in on whatever is going on with Sakura."

Tsunade internally flinched, the first crack in the wall of secrecy she had built around the Stargate had finally appeared... at the hands of a Genin no less. She replied in her blandest voice, "Nothing is going on... if Sakura finding herself is an issue, talk to her."

"I did... and Sakura can't lie to me. I don't care what you have to do, but whatever Sakura is doing inside the Hokage Monument... I want in on it."

Tsunade went still as she considered her options. 'So, Inoichi's daughter has finally shown herself... I should of expected it since the Nara's are in the know. Well, it could be worse... I could be staring down Danzo instead.' She smiled behind her hands and thought further, 'I wonder if she has any dirt on Danzo? That would be to good to be true.' Tsunade leaned forward, elbows on her desk. "I'll only ask you once Ino Yamanaka, and I strongly suggest you tell me the whole truth... your's, and Sakura's life is at stake. What did Sakura say to you?"

"Absolutely nothing... but I could of easily made her." 'At the cost of our friendship.' Ino mentally added. "Everything I know is from my own investigation, and knowing Sakura better than anyone else... including you, Hokage-sama." Ino replied, then fell silent when Tsunade raised her hand.

"First things first." Tsunade stated with a tiny smile, then flashed through a series of hand seals and uttered the command phrase, "CURTAIN OF SHADOWS!" A solid black line a foot wide rose up the wall to the ceiling, between the windows, then extended around the room like a thick, black curtain, making the walls black and the ceiling and floor shadowy, but the room stayed bright. "It's an A-Rank Security Seal, this room isn't here as far as the outside world can tell, nothing goes out or comes in until I dispel it."

Ino took a breath, let it out slowly, then told Tsunade everything she knew so that her friends, and fellow Genin didn't get in trouble. When Ino finished, she knew her very carefully worded confession only implicated her, everything from 'the ring', to a carefully edited version of her chat with Sakura last night.

After Ino had finished, Tsunade smiled as if she'd just heard a nice story. "Sakura is working on a special project for me to upgrade the shelters based on reports from after the invasion, but the rest are rumors. You have nothing, but to avoid any trouble, keep that information to yourself or our next meeting won't be this pleasant." Tsunade explained calmly.

Ino closed her eyes and sighed. 'Kami above, I hope I survive the next 5 minutes.' "I'd hoped to forego this... but it appears that you doubt my skill, and the depth of my... research." Ino frowned, reached into her pouch, and pulled out a thinner envelope. "This information concerns someone we both know." Ino deliberately paused, then stood up, laid it on Tsunade's desk with respectful bow, and remained standing.

Outwardly, Tsunade eyed it with detached scrutiny, inwardly, her guts turned to ice. While Ino's statement could encompass several people... her mind focused on the two people that mattered to her. Jiraiya, her sole surviving friend from her youth, and Naruto. The latter a source of joy and pride, and her godson... that she'd abandoned for a multi-year spree of anger and self-pity, heavily laced with gambling and sake.

She willed her hand to remain steady as it reached for the envelope. As Tsunade picked it up, she looked at Ino and said, "If this is a clever ploy to gain my trust, and a lie... I'll break every bone in your body, heal you, and then I'll give you to Anko to do with whatever she wishes, and your clan be damned."

Ino exerted every ounce of will she had keep from wetting herself, she had overheard stories about Anko from her father's T & I co-workers. Once the cell door closed behind her, the Anko you met at her favorite dango stand, no longer existed... and Kami-sama help you when that moment came. Once she trusted her voice, Ino replied, "I'm prepared to stand behind everything I've written down." Ino drew herself up and continued, "I'll match my devotion, and commitment to Konoha with anyone wearing the leaf."

Tsunade looked Ino in the eyes and replied, "I'll hold you to that, Ino Yamanaka."

That done, she opened the envelope and began reading... after a minute of poring over Ino's writings, Tsunade went still... then Ino heard the desk before her creak and groan, then stepped back when she noticed Tsunade's fist was pressed against the top of it... and fine cracks began radiating outward from it. Then she switched her gaze to Tsunade's face, and stepped back again... while her face was studiously neutral, her eyes were filled with a murderous fury. Tsunade looked up from papers in her hand and addressed Ino in a quiet, low voice. "In the name of the Shodai Hokage, do you swear this all true?"

Ino went to the floor and assumed the shinobi position of fealty... her right knee and fist against the floor, her head and body bowed respectfully. "Hai, Hokage-sama, in the name Hashirama Senju, I swear that all I have seen, and heard, is the truth as I know it." She then added, "And in the name of my clan, my father and mother, I also swear it so."

Tsunade laid the papers down, stood up and turned to face the shadowy wall behind her, saying no more aloud. 'That filthy motherless bastard... that monster...' She heard her knuckles crack and pop... then willed her hands to open and relax. 'I will get you for this, you'll not escape my hand with clever, pious words about... 'for the good of Konoha'. No, not this time.' After a few minutes of contemplation and debate, Tsunade turned and spoke, "Stand up, Genin Yamanaka." She turned and faced Ino. "Other than the... demand you voiced to me earlier, did you come here with any thought of reward, or favor?"

Ino paused in thought, then bowed her head before replying, "I apologize if my request came across as a demand, Hokage-sama."

Tsunade favored Ino with a twisted, half-smile. "It did." She held up her hand to silence any response from Ino. "I've read your Sensei's report on his team, and you, Ino. He stated that you have a tendency to seize control when you think your teammates are drifting, or indecisive." She nodded to herself and smiled, "That sounds a little bit too much like me... in my younger days; Shikamaru and Chouji have my sympathies." Tsunade smirked and added, "You also seem to share other traits with me, but we'll talk about that later. Now then, back to my original question. What is it that you want?"

Ino replied with a shy smile. "A chance to sit down would be a good start." Tsunade smiled in reply and motioned Ino to sit. After taking her seat, Ino continued, "If you mean money... when you said reward, nothing. That's not why I came here." Ino pursed her lips and frowned in thought. "As to favors... I have a feeling that if you allow me to be with Sakura, anything I might have in mind... just might fly out the nearest window."

Tsunade, sitting as well, smiled behind her hands. 'Oh, you are a clever young woman... and worthy of the Yamanaka name.' Tsunade leaned back in her chair and grinned. "Yes, I suppose that is a possibility. However, you still haven't answered my question."

Ino turned thoughtful again, and after a long moment replied, "I don't want to get left behind... I know something is happening, something big." Ino raised a finger. "All of us... I mean all the clan heirs suddenly getting the jutsu scrolls we've been begging for, suddenly dropped in our laps." Ino raised a second finger. "My father has never been so quiet these past days, and the look in his eyes when he sits by himself... you'd think every Hidden Village we know is going to come marching up to our gates any day now." Ino shook her head sadly and raised a third finger. "And Shika-chan has dropped off the face of the earth... he's even stopped cloud watching, at least where we can find him..." Ino narrowed her eyes at Tsunade. "...did you honestly think we... I, wouldn't notice that?"

Tsunade laughed in spite of the information Ino had laid before her. She sighed heavily and replied, "Point taken." 'Yes, you're becoming quite the kunoichi Konoha hopes for.'

Ino raised a fourth finger. "I shouldn't even have to mention Sakura, but I will. I honestly can't recall the last time I've seen her so happy... and at peace, and so focused, at least not since the night before finals at the Academy." Ino snorted. "I could have placed an exploding tag under her chair, and I don't think she would have noticed." Ino leaned forward. "So, whatever is happening here... I want in on it now, before it hits me like Chouji in Meat Tank-mode... which I figure is going to happen to me anyway."

A plan started to form in Tsunade's mind, she grinned slyly at Ino and replied, "There will be conditions..."

Ino snorted in disbelief. "I'd faint with surprise if there weren't."

Tsunade chuckled and continued, ignoring Ino's justifiable outburst. "First off, I want all the information you've gathered, and a full essay on how you gathered it... no omissions, no lapses of memory. Agreed?" Ino nodded, it was a small price to pay for being reunited with Sakura. "Good, the next condition is that you surrender the negative of that photo you gave Shizune... it wouldn't do to have a picture of Kakashi's face floating about..." She gave Ino a meaningful look. "...especially of him doing something especially intimate with a fellow Jonin, and all the copies you possess of said photo.

Ino muttered, "It's no big deal to me if she likes having her Southern Gate attacked..." Then noted the frown on Tsunade's face. Ino sighed and nodded. "Yes, Hokage-sama."

After a moment of thought, Tsunade added, "And I want any photos you possess of anyone, surrendered to ANBU." Tsunade leaned forward and narrowed her eyes. "Including any future ones you take."

Tsunade's declaration hit her... Ino raised an eyebrow. "Are you telling me to continue gathering... gossip research?"

Tsunade put on her best innocent face. "No. You'll be too busy gathering information for Konoha. I'll see that it gets into the right hands." After a moment, Tsunade switched gears. "Wait a minute, aren't you a trifle young to know about such things like the Southern Gate?"

Ino raised an eyebrow and tapped the hitai-ite around her waist with a finger. "Surely you don't think you're the only kunoichi that shops at the Iron Kimono? I know all about the other shop in the back... although I suspect things were different when you..." Ino left that sentence unfinished when she saw the look in Tsunade's eyes. She cleared her throat. "At any rate, my particular method of gathering gossip had an... unexpected effect on me; and I suppose, a penalty as well." Ino sighed and met Tsunade's gaze. "Success is rarely cost-free, or so I've been told. I'll leave the rest to your imagination."

Tsunade didn't see the eyes of a 13 year-old Genin looking back at her. 'I think it's better that I don't know... right now, but later, yes.' "I see... and yes, you're right in one respect, as you are about to find out, that success does have a price." Tsunade picked up the papers Ino had given her, folded them, and held them like a banner. "Among other things, you can consider yourself..." She searched her brain for the right word, then remembered something Shogun had written. "...a sub-contractor of ANBU. You'll get an appropriate modification of your ID card to reflect that status, not to mention their protection."

Tsunade applied her official seal to the papers and locked them up in her desk, then looked at Ino with a smile. "One of my other conditions is that you become a med-nin. I trust you have no problems with that?" She took Ino's smile as a yes. "Good. Now, just for the record, everything you see and hear from this point on will be considered an S-rank secret."

"Hai, Hokage-sama." Ino agreed, then asked, "By the way, will I be apprenticed to... someone?"

Tsunade frowned in thought and replied, "That's a good question." She nodded to herself and added, "Actually, there's a number of issues to consider, given the state of your Genin Team... and the others." Tsunade's frown deepened. 'Everything is so... out of order right now. I need to get a handle on this soon.' "Let me think about it for the moment. I'll come up with something." 'Perhaps I should ask Shogun for advice...' Tsunade let out a quiet sigh then reset her face to Hokage-mode. "Come back at 12:30, sharp. You're dismissed until then." Tsunade dispelled the security jutsu.

Ino stood and bowed. "Hai, Hokage-sama."

===April 11, 8:53 AM, Tsunade's Office===

After Ino left, Tsunade slowly shook her head while smiling. "Yet another of Rookie 11..." She used the new term for the remarkable Genin of Naruto's class. "...has stepped forward." She frowned to herself as considered the others... now currently in a holding pattern. She took sour consolation with one reality, once the secret of the Stargate was partially lifted, there'd be not further need for IMO status for the surviving team... Guy's.

However, that still left the matter of Kurenai's broken team, and a team-less Kakashi... he was far too valuable an asset as a Jonin-sensei to lay unused, especially since he'd come to realize his faults. 'I definitely need to write Shogun... he must have dealt with this kind of problem himself, or worse.' Tsunade groaned as recalled all the information on Gogyo-mon bloodline she had been given... and the history of the clan that had been built around it. A clan that was supposedly wiped out to the last infant child... 'So much for that story.'

Ukemi's writings had provided some of the pieces to that puzzle; and why she was never told of their existence by any of the elders in the Senju Clan... not even Mito-obasama. Maintaining the peace of Konoha with its two, now one prominent clan. Tsunade took out a blank scroll and unrolled it, she needed to know more about the man named Ric... and the unknown shinobi clan he was related to. She needed to reconcile what she had read in Naruto and Hinata's scrolls to her... and what she had learned yesterday. Tsunade had two different pictures that didn't match in the least... and that was a problem. In either case, Tsunade had a feeling that she was inviting a storm in through the front door, her gut told her that much.

As Tsunade picked up a brush, her mind wandered back to Ino. 'I wonder if Ino understands the full scope of what she's done. She did what every other Elemental Nation has tried to do almost since they were founded. If I told anyone a Genin, not a year out of the Academy, had created a method of gathering information on a Hidden Village that puts every other method in use to shame... they'd call me crazy. Just on what I know I could promote her to Special Jonin, but she needs training first.' Tsunade thought with a smile; she couldn't wait to find out what that method was and read Ino's gossip files... after she finished her letter to Shogun.

===Sunday, April 13, 02:03 GMT, LA Flight 73 (4 hrs after departure), Mid-Atlantic===

Resting with his eyes shut, but with both ears wide open, Razin noted Irina's restlessness. His thoughts went back to their reunion at the Berlin safe house...

===Flashback: Berlin===

Everything had gone well enough... Irina had awakened shortly after his arrival, and as expected... confused and frantic until she focused on Razin's presence. After he convinced her that all was well, he helped Irina downstairs to the kitchen, and her first real meal of a very eventful day.

While she ate, Razin give Irina the details of the incident from a official perspective, and related her granduncle's mood during it all... and talked about his dramatic change after the phone call on his private line.

Even though Irina was still suffering the effects of the injury to her head, she still managed to focus on the details, ask some pointed questions, and recovered some of her professional demeanor.

While Razin was satisfied that she seemed well enough to continue her journey to SGC... his silent debate over her injuries, and the need to get Irina away from Federov, still continued. In the end, his adherence to his boss' order to get Irina to safety won out.

That bit of business done, he helped Irina back upstairs where she cleaned up and changed, just in time for their trip to the airport. Even in her current state, she had enough presence of mind to keep questions to a minimum, and to the point.

During the ride to the airport, they both shared a laugh when they realized, after looking over the documents supplied to them by their mysterious benefactor, that they were traveling as father and daughter... not that Razin minded. And, as promised, they had boarded their flight without incident and took their seats in the World Club section of the plane.

===End Flashback===

Razin sensed her move again, opened his eyes, and watched Irina getting to her feet. "What's wrong, Irishka?" He asked quietly, nearly everyone around them was asleep except for a few business-types reading documents, or books.

Steadying herself on the seat-back in front of them, she muttered, "Headache... bathroom... need to go." Razin made room for her to pass. After reaching the aisle, she made her way forward to the pair of lavatories on the port side.

A few steps away from her goal, a flight attendant popped out the aft galley, bearing a tray of food. She came to quick stop, her eyes glancing up at the bandage on Irina's temple. She smiled and asked, "Do you need anything, Miss?"

Irina nodded at the lavatory and moved past the attendant... then a soft tone went off and the Fasten Seatbelts message lit up.

The attendant set down the tray and asked, "Do you need..." Then the 747 shuddered and sharply pitched to starboard... propelling Irina head-first into the right-hand wall.

As Irina slumped to her knees, Razin sprang from his seat and moved to kneel beside her. He put his arms around her and asked, "Are you all right, little one?" The 747 shuddered again.

Blurry-eyed, she looked at Razin and nodded, just as the PA came to life. The pilot announced, "Ladies and Gentlemen, we're in for a bit of turbulence, please remain in your seats until further notice."

Razin snorted in ill-humor and helped Irina to her feet with the assistance of the attendant, who looked at her closely as she rose.

Irina willed herself to stand evenly, in spite of the airliner's occasional unsteadiness. "I am fine, thank you." At that, Razin and attendant guided her back to their seats, putting Irina in the aisle seat, at the flight attendant's insistence.

Razin debated the merits of asking for the plane to land at the nearest major airport... then recalled the Generál's, and the voice at the house, warning him that she was being hunted by a dangerous and powerful enemy... Federov.

Unknowing of a new factor added to Irina's injury... the creation of a micro-lesion in a vein within her brain, he decided that SGC was the only safe, final stop for her. It would prove to be a life-changing decision... for both of them.

===April 11, 11:52 AM, Aburame Estate===

She'd spent 3 hours communing with nature and done some light training to keep her skills sharp, taken a hot shower and was laying in her bed, clad only in her green panties, and reading a copy of Icha Icha Paradise she'd picked up the other day.

"Good morning Suzu-chan." Ukemi had suddenly appeared in her doorway without warning, again.

Suzumebachi leapt out of her bed. "Don't do that!" Suzu almost yelled then took a few deep breaths and calmed herself. "You're a scary bitch, you know that... I've never met anyone that can move like you do... and not make a fucking sound." She noted the smile on Ukemi's face and what it might presage. "So, where are Ukemi and Suki Aburame going today?" Suzu asked, her face showed her feelings about dressing like them and hiding who she was.

Ukemi smiled. "Not today Suzu-chan, from now on Konoha gets to know of Suzumebachi, a Genin of Konoha." Ukemi replied, took her right hand out of her coat pocket and held it out, palm up.

Suzu's eyes got as big as saucers, she walked up to Ukemi and stared at her hand... specifically a Leaf hitai-ite with a black band. "Please tell me this isn't a joke... because if you're just teasing me..."

"I was given full authority over you, which means I can make you a Leaf kunoichi... or kill you. You've passed every test I gave you. Take it, you earned it." Ukemi said in her passive voice, but there was pride in it too.

Suzu looked at her, wondering when she was tested... then her eyes widened as she realized that as smart as she was... she was a stupid child compared to Ukemi. She bowed low. "Thank you Ukemi-san, I'm honored that I've proven myself to you and earned the privilege of wearing the Leaf hitai-ite." Then stood, took her prize and was about to tie it around her neck when she froze.

"Is something wrong?" Ukemi asked.

"Earning my Iwa hitai-ite meant very little to me, to them I went from being little better than a street whore, to expendable tits and ass... even after I became a Chuunin and completed several B-Ranked missions, I got very little respect. I can count the number of respected Iwa kunoichi on one hand. Please... tie this on me." Suzu asked.

Ukemi nodded and took back the headband as Suzu turned around. It didn't show on her face, but inside, Ukemi Aburame's legendary cool was straining to contain the rage growing within her. She'd been to Iwa more times than she cared to remember and seen how they treated their kunoichi. Her hive buzzed briefly. "My pleasure. Forehead?"

Suzu nodded. She'd heard the angry buzz of Ukemi's hive, but didn't react to it, she did have a good idea why she'd be upset. Suzu felt it tied snugly around her forehead, then hands gently gripped her shoulders. "Thank you... that part of my life is over and means nothing to me." She mentally added. 'Except for my Clan's ancestral home.'

"I have things I must do today, but tomorrow, the whole day is yours... on me; clothes, food, anything you want... you've earned it." Ukemi replied, smiling.

Suzu turned to face her, and with only a brief nervous sigh, opened Ukemi's coat, not surprised to find she was nude, stepped closer, slipping her arms inside and around Ukemi's body, and rested her head on her huge breasts. This was the first time she'd been this bold, while she knew Ukemi could easy kill her, she hoped for the other reaction by her guardian... and best friend.

Ukemi's smile grew as she closed her coat around Suzu and enjoyed the moment. Ukemi thought, 'I love you too.'

===Saturday, April 13, 11:57 PM, O'Donnell Lodge===

Sam brushed the popcorn out of her hair and waved her hands in surrender. "Alright already! I admit it, they were both okay films." Jack smiled in triumph and popped some the ammo for his next barrage in his mouth.

Naruto leaned forward and looked at Sam. "Okay? They were AWESOME!" Naruto turned to Jack with his Puppy Eyes Jutsu running full tilt. "Can we watch them again?"

Jack chuckled and shook his head. "Aren't you tired?" Naruto's response was a foxy smile as he started bouncing in place on the sofa.

Jeri laughed and stood up. "I'd take that as a no, Colonel." He pointed at the flat-screen with his beer bottle. "The funny part of it all is that we've got a couple o'young'uns here that can do all those wire-fu stunts... and then some."

Hinata sat quietly, still captivated by what she had seen. While she knew they were cinematic presentations of Taijutsu, the graceful movements of the women fighters in offense and defense had sparked her imagination... she had never seen that many demonstrations of the precise use of feet to strike an opponent, or to block and deflect attacks.

A part of her was fascinated by the possibilities... she knew through discussions, and training with Kurenai-sensei that leg strength always exceeded arm strength. And, having watched Lee-kun and Guy-sensei enough times, she knew the utility of using all four limbs in Taijutsu. But the other part of her, dominated by tradition, and many years of demanding training under her father's eye. And later, ruthlessly and relentlessly enforced on her by one particular elder... the sum total of those moments demanded that she cast aside any ideas contrary to the clan's idealized fighting style... the Gentle Fist.

For her sanity's sake, Hinata had locked those dark memories up, and hidden the key. And, what she had experienced, and learned thus far amongst her newest friends, had strengthened those locks... but even so, Hinata knew what would happen if she dared to voice her opinions aloud within the Main Branch. Hinata knew that she was nowhere near the level of skill, nor strong enough to handle the consequences of saying what her heart, and mind, demanded of her.

Hinata shook her head and looked at all her new friends... laughing and joking. She covertly glanced at Naruto smiling and repeating his favorite lines from the movies they had just watched, more happy and carefree than she could ever recall. No... things were different here, more than she could ever dared hope for, or imagine.

The playful spar she had with Ric not that long ago... that had roused a part of her that had long been buried. While she had held back against him... Ric still managed to surprise her with moves that seemed to have been specifically created to counter the Gentle Fist... that, and her suspicion that he had been holding back as well... it had given much food for thought.

All of the days she had experienced thus far reminded Hinata that her horizons had been forever altered. And, that there was a world worth examining beyond the confining stone walls of the Hyuuga Clan's compound. She smiled to herself, and spoke up. "I'd like to watch them again, please."

Ric noted the thoughtful smile Hinata wore, with a grin he announced, "Okay then, that's two votes for an encore." He swept the room with the remote as though it was microphone. "Well, what say you..." Then fell silent as his Blackberry, one of the items that had been in briefcase sent by Rudman, resting in his shirt pocket, signaled the arrival of an e-mail.

Hinata watched, as everyone else did, Ric pull out the device and thumbed it... she easily sensed his cheerful demeanor vanish as he stared at the smartphone's screen. His face turned serious, suddenly tossed the remote to Daniel, and stuffed the Blackberry into a front pants pocket... no one failed to notice the color in his irises beginning to churn like an angry storm-cloud, nor his shift in body language. Both Jack and Jeri held their breath, and waited.

For the first time since Naruto had laid eyes on Jack's friend, he got a sensation of wariness... not specifically towards him, nor anyone else in the room, but a small voice in his head whispered... approach with caution.

The change in Ric's eyes was also noted by his inner guest... who chose to remain silent.

Jack beat Jeri to voicing the question; both of them had seen this sort of moment before, but had never talked about it. "What's wrong Ric? What did you..."

"I have to go." The tone in Ric's voice brooked no argument; he began to turn towards the open doorway.

Alarmed at the sudden shift in his friend's mood, among other things, Jack opted for the 'pull rank' gambit. "Stand fast, Major." Everyone flinched at the tone in Jack's voice. He added, "Situation report."

It worked... Ric froze, his years of training kicking in. He replied, "That e-mail... it stated that Irina is en route to Denver... and that she's in trouble." Ric looked at his wristwatch and added, "She arrives in less than 2 hours." He drew himself up straight and set his shoulders. "I'm going. You decide amongst yourselves who's coming along." Ric appeared calmer, but no one moved to stop him as he left, heading towards the bedrooms at the back of the lodge.

Sam stood up and looked at Jack... she motioned to her own eyes, "What the hell was that?" She glanced at the doorway and added, "And who's Irina?"

Both Jack and Jeri let out matching sighs. Jeri spoke first, "His lady friend from Russia."

Hinata stood up and faced Sam. "What you saw was the activation of his Blood-Line."

Jack added, "Yeah... I guess. It happened when Hinata did her chakra thing on Ric... it was kinda freaky when I first saw it."

Sam flapped her arms in exasperation. "Really, sir?" Jack winced at tone in Sam's voice. "And when were you planning on telling us..." Sam jerked with surprise and looked at Hinata. "...did you say blood-line?"

Teal'c spoke up. "I suggest that this topic be set aside." He stood up and added, "Major Von Krieger is obviously worried about his mate." His tone was very matter-of-fact. "I can fully appreciate that sensation... and I respectfully submit that attempting to hinder him will not turn out well. I further suggest that we follow his advice and decide who is going, and who is staying."

Jack surveyed the looks on everyone's faces and sighed. He waved his hands at everyone. "Okay, go get ready." He looked at Jeri and added, "Make sure everything's locked up when we leave."

===Saturday, April 11, 12:40 PM, Hokage Tower===

Sitting at her desk Shizune felt the office seal deactivate and smiled briefly. She raised her head from her paperwork and looked at the far wall. "You can go in now." Shizune said.

===Tsunade's Office===

Tsunade was sitting at her desk, smiling at the stunned, almost blank expression on Ino's face. She was right, but was also very impressed... unlike Sakura, Ino hadn't passed out from shock. "Are you okay Ino?"

Ino blinked a few times and her brain restarted. "Huh... oh, hai. I'm fine... I guess."

Tsunade and Ino turned to the door when it opened. Ino was surprised, Tsunade wasn't, she'd told Shizune to send them in after the Seal was deactivated.

"You wanted to see us Tsunade-sama?" Hakumei asked, and stopped after she saw Ino.

"Tsunade-sama?" Ukemi asked, nodding at Ino.

"Please shut the door and lock it." Tsunade asked and Hakumei obeyed. "Thank you, and to answer your questions, I just told her everything... and now that you're both here, it's time for the tour." Tsunade explained as she walked around her desk, took Ino's hand and pulled her to her feet. "Academy roof, South-West corner, then the shelters." Tsunade said, then vanished with Ino in a swirl of leaves.

Ukemi and Hakumei followed a moment later.

===1:03 PM, KSC===

Having passed the Genjutsu Seals protecting the entrance, Tsunade led the slightly dazed trio down the first ramp... and laughed. "Once you learn how to bypass the seals that won't happen anymore, you'll be fine in a minute. Before we get to the Gate Room, you should all know that what you've been told... is only the basics. You'll forgive me for doing it to you... Ino, you've only had the C-Rank briefing, Ukemi, Hakumei... B-Rank... this is the A-Rank... which includes a basic tour.".

"So, we're essentially Genin again?" Ukemi asked.

Tsunade had to struggle to contain her laughter, which came out like a cough. "You and Hakumei are more like new Chuunin... but, yes."

Hakumei slumped against the tunnel wall. "Oh fuck me sideways."

Everyone stopped and stared at Hakumei in surprise, they'd never heard an experienced Hyuuga swear.

Her face pinking, Hakumei smiled. "I, uh..." She stammered, then laughed nervously.

Tsunade giggled. "We can forget this happened... right? We do have more important things to do than embarrass Hakumei and hold this over her head the rest of her life."

"Oh, hai Tsunade-sama." Ino replied and gave Hakumei her soon to be patented, 'I've got your number' smile.

"Before you ask Hakumei-chan... you're probably in trouble. I'll explain why Ino is smiling like that later." Tsunade explained as she walked, not looking back. You didn't hand one of the more notorious gossips in Konoha fodder on a golden plate, however minor... at least not knowingly.

Hakumei noted the Yamanaka's smile, the Hokage's comment, and resumed her air of Hyuuga reserve. She strongly suspected that Ino's look, and the Hokage's comment, were clues as to why a mere Genin, out of the blue, had suddenly been included in a tour of a secret facility. Ukemi was having parallel thoughts... even if she was a clan heir, she discerned no obvious reason for Ino's presence.

===1:07 PM, Stargate Chamber===

Sakura, along with Shiho and Shikamaru, turned to the entrance when Tsunade came in, but before Sakura could greet her, she saw a Hyuuga woman, a tall Aburame woman, and to her pleasant surprise, Ino. With a huge smile on her face, Sakura leapt out of her chair, dashed across the room and scooped up Ino in a crushing hug. "You did it Ino-chan... I knew you could do it." Sakura whispered in Ino's ear.

"Air." Ino gasped... her eyes wide with surprise; she hadn't guessed that Tsunade-sama had been teaching her strength technique to Sakura. She was set down immediately, took a deep breath, then partially just to embarrass Sakura... hugged her back and gave Sakura a full kiss on the lips.

"I don't want to know." Shikamaru sighed and turned his attention back to the scroll he'd gotten from a man named Daniel Jackson.

"Oh, I do." Ukemi said in an almost lusty voice.

Tsunade smirked and pointed, her 3 guests followed the direction of her finger and gasped in shock. "That, ladies, is why you're here, and how Naruto and Hinata got to another world." She announced and began walking towards it with the new-comers in tow.

"This is what you've been doing Sakura-chan?" Ino asked as she walked arm-in-arm with Sakura.

"Hai... meet the one ring in Konoha that won't fit in your jewelry box, Ino... and it weighs more than your house." Sakura replied with a sly grin.

Ukemi Flash-Stepped across the room to the base of the 'gate, threw her arms out and forward and a huge swarm of tiny beetles poured from her sleeves and covered every millimeter of the ring in a layer of beetles.

"What's she doing?" Sakura asked nervously.

Her face now in Hokage Mode, Tsunade answered. "I'd say she's getting a better look at it than any of us can... except for Hakumei." She glanced at the Hyuuga, who hadn't taken her eyes off the Stargate for several moments and added, "And yes, when Ukemi-dono's done, you can examine it with your Byakuugan... you'll be the first. To be honest, I've been waiting for a chance like this, there's only so much we can do."

"I know it's only a medical jutsu, but have you tried using diagnostic jutsus on it, Tsunade-sama?" Hakumei asked curiously.

Tsunade sighed softly. "Hai. And it failed utterly. I've tried every jutsu in my arsenal that might tell me something... nothing has worked. What we really need a specialist; someone with an Earth affinity, excellent chakra control and knowledge of..."

"Tenten." Ino interrupted.

Everyone turned to look at Ino, except Ukemi, but no one turned faster than Tsunade. "What?"

Ino smiled proudly. "You may have the best shinobi in Konoha helping you, and no offense, but you've neglected one of two people in Fire Country, or any other Nation, that can tell you anything you want to know about that thing." Ino explained as she hooked her thumb at the Stargate. "Since you haven't asked her father... and I doubt it's in her file, but Tenten has unique skills, that allow her to do things that few in the Elemental Nations can. Trust me on this Tsunade-sama, if you bring Tenten in on this, I promise you that within 24 hours she'll know everything about that ring that's worth knowing. At least as far as the metal it's made of is concerned."

Ino looked at their stunned faces. "When you consider that her father is probably the finest smith, anywhere, if anyone has learned, or can come up with an analysis jutsu for metal... it would be Tenten."

Tsunade started laughing... how she was laughing made everyone nervously step away from her.

===Sunday, April 13, 1:33 AM, Denver International Airport===

Depending on which vehicle you were in, the drive to Denver's airport was either very quiet, or very lively. Jack, Naruto, and Hinata had chosen to ride with Ric. Jack's chief role had been reining in Ric's casual disregard for the speed limit, oddly enough assisted, at Ric's suggestion, by Hinata's Byakuugan... who unerringly spotted the Colorado State Patrol cruisers, lurking in wait for speeders, long before they became an issue.

For Naruto and Hinata, the drive to the airport changed their definition of... speed. Neither of them could have imagined that something as large and heavy as Ric's SUV could exceed the fastest Jonin in Konoha.

What little conversation that did take place was Naruto and Hinata trading quiet comments, and Naruto putting a couple of questions to the Kyuubi. She had agreed with Teal'c's observation, that Ric felt his mate was in danger. She also warned Naruto to step lightly... she still hadn't recalled anything specific about Ric's atypical chakra, but she easily identified with Ric's mood. And suspected that Naruto's reaction to Hinata being threatened would be less restrained... and far more perilous for anyone in his path. However, she kept that observation to herself.

Hinata, when she had gone to her bedroom to put the special contact lenses back in, had felt an overwhelming urge to take another item with her... the Gem of Life. Touching the wrapped gem in her jacket pocket did wonders to control her anxiety over Ric's mood... she got the distinct impression that Suimei was gently stroking her hand as they raced towards the airport.

With Jeri in the Suburban, the animated conversation, mainly between Sam and Daniel, occasionally salted with blunt observations by Teal'c, and cryptic comments by Jeri, had finally died down. In the end, Daniel had successfully diffused Sam's opinion that Ric was more than a little insane, but not the impression that Ric was far more dangerous than his mild, and humorous demeanor let on.

They arrived at Denver International with over 10 minutes to spare, and parking was barely an issue given what time it was. Ric's group walked into the west side of the Jeppesen Terminal first, with Jeri and his passengers not far behind. The more experienced travelers in both groups sought out the arrival board... they spotted the flight in question, Lufthansa flight 73, Concourse A, and the gate number, A43.

At this point, Jack regained control of the situation. He turned to Daniel and pointed, "Go to the Lufthansa desk and check on status of the flight." He then turned the assembled group and added, "While there is a footbridge and a underground train that connects to the concourses, they'll have to go through Customs and Immigration, which won't be an issue with our IDs... SGC has an understanding with those folks."

Daniel trotted back and reported, "We're in luck, Flight 73 is still 10 or so minutes away from hitting the gate." He glance at Ric and added. "They had a bit of turbulence along the way, that's why the flight is running late... no news on any passengers getting hurt."

Jack sighed and looked at Ric. Thankfully his eyes had reverted back to normal, and he had finally calmed down. "We'll take the train to the concourse, it'll be quicker." He paused for a moment, snapped his fingers, and turned to Ric. "Do you have a picture of her on you?" Ric pulled out his wallet and handed over a photo... Jack showed it to everyone.

Sam summed up the general opinion. "Wow, she's..."

Jeri finished up the comment, "...all that and a bag of chips."

Jack handed the photo back and pointed to the stairs leading down to the train. "Let's get going."

===1:41 AM, Lufthansa Flight 73===

Razin spotted a long white building as the 747 taxied closer, he looked at Irina and gently squeezed her hand. "We are almost there, little one."

She stirred in her seat and slowly turned to look. "That's good." The bleeding inside her skull had been a trickle, but the effects were becoming obvious... if you recognized the signs.

Razin kept a neutral face. She had complained earlier that her headache was getting worse. The medicine he had taken from the Berlin safe house wasn't working anymore. He knew something was wrong, but hoped that they'd get to SGC before things got too serious.

Irina sat up and smiled. She ignored the pain and blinked, attempting to focus her vision. She turned to Razin and asked, "Give me my purse... there's a brush in it, and some makeup." She reached up and removed the bandage from her head.

This time, Razin openly frowned with concern, but chose not contest the issue.

===1:45 AM, Gate A43===

Jack looked at Ric... again. He asked in a low voice, "Are we cool now?" Ric sighed and nodded. Jack leaned closer and added, "What happened back there at the lodge?"

Ric shrugged in reply. "I'm not sure... I don't think that Mr. Chakra and I have come an understanding yet."

Jack raised an eyebrow. "Mr. Chakra?"

Ric gave Jack a twisted smile. "I've got to call him something... I don't think you understand what's been going on inside of me since Hinata fixed my... problem." He saw the look on Jack's face and added, "And don't bother telling Dr. Fraiser. There's not a damn thing she can do about it, one way or the other... it's all strictly on me."

Jack frowned and asked, "What's it like?"

Ric put on a thoughtful face and after a few moments replied, "It's sorta like having a wild horse as your best friend... he'll let you on him, but sometimes he decides which way to go..." He gave Jack a quirky smile. "...and all you can do is hang on, and dodge the tree limbs."

Jack considered going to Janet, then ditched the idea. Ever since Hinata and Naruto had awoken his, and his friends chakra... things had changed. He had no words to describe it, but he had noticed the change in the other SG1 members, and himself. Ric was right... he couldn't imagine what Ric was going through. The Ric he had met in Iraq had been weird and scary enough as it is.

Teal'c spoke up. "I believe the passengers are coming out now."

The flight hadn't been that crowded... after a few minutes most of the passengers had walked past them and headed off to claim their luggage. As their numbers dwindled... and no Irina appeared, Jack noticed Ric tensing up, he gave his friend's shoulder a gentle squeeze. "She'll be there." He saw Ric smile, and looked down the tunnel... Jack spotted her instantly, the picture Ric had shown them didn't do her justice. He commented on the man next to her, steadying Irina as they walked towards them. "Who's the old guy?"

Ric grinned and replied, "That's Starshiná Stanimir Radimirov Razin... a crazy old Cossack, and her granduncle's bodyguard. He and I have lifted a glass or two of vodka together... he's quite a character, and he adores Irina."

Several feet away, Hinata was seeing something else. She tugged on Sam's jacket and quietly commented, "Something's wrong. Her walk is unsteady, and she's in considerable pain."

Sam narrowed her eyes and looked closer. Then she realized that Ric's girlfriend hadn't reacted to his presence yet. 'She's less than 40 feet away, and she doesn't see him?' Sam glanced at Hinata and asked quietly, "I think you should get behind me and look at her." Then Sam saw the older man say something, the woman... Irina, smiled weakly and increased the speed of her unsteady gait.

Hinata understood the unspoken request and did as asked. A few seconds later, she heard Hinata gasp. Sam asked, "What's wrong..." She watched the woman collapse... as did everyone else.

Hinata grabbed Sam's jacket halting her movement forward... not that she had a chance of beating Ric. He'd bolted towards the woman before Jack could even blink twice. Hinata spoke as Sam looked back, "There's something wrong with her head... it has to be an injury." Hinata tugged on Sam's jacket again. "She needs help... quickly."

Sam pulled out her cell phone, but Hinata put her hand over it. "I can help her..." She looked about the concourse. "...but I can't do it here."

Jeri had overheard every word. He growled out, "Don't worry, we'll find something." He looked at a worried Naruto, also taking everything in. "Come with me, son."

-x-

After a few minutes of searching, Ric carried a limp Irina into a nearby break room, followed by Hinata and Sam. Jack and the rest waited outside. The older man, Razin, had taken a fair amount of persuading by Daniel and Jeri, all speaking in Russian, to keep him from going in as well. And, where Jack's ID had failed to deter the arriving airport security, Jeri had flashed a special Delta Force ID that he always kept on himself... somewhere.

Inside the break room, after Sam had swept a table clean with her arm, Ric gently laid Irina down and sat beside her, refusing to let go out her hand. Hinata closed her eyes and took a deep breath to steady herself, then reached into jacket and pulled out the Gem of Life... to her complete surprise, it was glowing brightly through the cloth it was wrapped in... which she quickly tossed aside.

The voice of Suimei filled her head. "I sensed your distress, Hinata-sama. What is it that you require of me?"

Hinata did her best to shut out Ric's gentle words to the unconscious woman... the look on Ric's face would have been enough to start tears flowing. She replied to Suimei. "The woman before me is badly hurt... I think she may die soon if I don't help her."

"Why do you wish to help her?" The question caught Hinata off guard.

Hinata switched her gaze to Ric's face and fought to remain calm. "Because she needs help, and... my friend will be grief-stricken if he loses her."

Suimei replied calmly, "All things must pass, Hinata-sama. You do not know this woman, you may be saving the life of a dark and wicked soul."

Hinata started at the yosei's reply. "I refuse to believe that. I know Ric, he is not wicked, nor dark. I reject the notion that Ric could love someone who was without worth." She looked at the woman laying on the table and added, "I won't stand by and watch others suffer, or withhold help to someone in need... and I will not allow someone to die if I have the means to help them."

Suimei asked, "Are you certain of this? Is this what you truly believe?"

Hinata set her jaw and replied, "If the Gem of Life withholds aid from those in need, then it is the not the Gem of Life... it is the Gem of Judgment. I will NOT judge who is worthy, and who is not, without knowledge of their actions, and their heart."

To Hinata's surprise, a different voice replied... a solemn, yet gentle, woman's voice. "Well spoken, child of the Hyuugas. Your heart has revealed the Path that I set before your clan, the Path I had hoped your clan would seek." Hinata felt a peaceful, but almost overwhelming power flow into her as the new voice filled her mind. "Your resolve does you credit; your compassion, and concern for others does you credit as well. I see your true heart and know that you that you treasure life, and do not take it needlessly, nor for your own gain."

Hinata almost felt weightless at the pronouncement, her sadness and anxiety dispelled.

After a moment of silence, the voice continued. "Lay the gem upon the woman's chest; then join your hand with the woman, and the man who cares for her more than his own life. Let the woman named Sam remain, for she shall bear witness to what will come next. I entreat you, and her to remain silent. I must focus on what must be done, and shall do. The children of Nanami and Kaminari will be joined... she will lend him her passion, he will lend her his strength."

Hinata sensed a smile behind the voice. "I will make some... adjustments. Both of them have had defects imposed on them that... that I suspect they would not willingly bear, if they had been given the opportunity to chose."

The voice sensed Hinata's unasked question. "No my child, duty and destiny should not be set aside, nor casually altered... they are two of the many things that define someone."

Hinata did as she was bid to do... the light within the gem grew in intensity. Sam, without knowing why, stood mute and watched as the light filled the room...

===Within the Light===

Irina opened her eyes and wondered at the endless sea of white. She looked down at her naked body, oddly unsurprised by her lack of clothes, or its translucency, nor the floating sensation she was experiencing. On a whim, she glanced backwards and noted the absence of wings. 'No, I'm not there... not that I expected to be.' She thought with a tiny smirk. Then she felt the sensation of movement despite the lack of reference points... shortly thereafter, she discerned the presence of someone else. As she drew closer, she knew it was her Ric, like-wise naked and floating like her, but looking intently in a different direction.

She willed herself to close with him... the ache that she'd felt when he left Moscow sharpened at the sight him. In her heart, she knew the only way to allay that pang was to reach him... and hold him again. She cried out to gain his attention, but no words came forth... the whiteness about her seemingly swallowed them up. As she drew closer, he turned to face her, as if somehow he knew she was close at hand... the very gesture of Ric holding out his arms, propelled her to him. And, as she'd hoped, the ache vanished the moment they touched.

"I missed you." His simple declaration filled her like a torrent.

For some reason, she felt no urge to reply, except with an embrace. From him, she needed no further words, the sensation of his touch was more comforting than the tenderest words he could have uttered.

A woman's voice, strong and clear, rang through the white void. "Do you desire to be joined?"

They exchanged looks, the arrival of the voice was hardly any stranger than the place they found themselves in, and equally unthreatening. Irina's response was to tighten her embrace of Ric, he did like-wise.

Ric spoke up, "Who are you; what is this place; and, why are we here?"

"Who I am... you will learn that, and more, soon enough. This place? You are within me. And why... because someone you know cares for you, and her, and desires to heal, rather than harm."

Ric considered each response and held back any reply. He, like Irina, felt nothing threatening... or evil, only peace and serenity.

The voice spoke again. "Do you wish this joining, even though he is a child of Kaminari?"

Ric quietly noted that wrapped within her question, a potentially vital fact for him had been revealed.

For the first time since finding herself within this mysterious place, Irina's voice came forth. "I don't understand what you mean."

The voice explained, "He is a seeker of strength, that is why he chose you. He will always be drawn to it, just as others will be drawn to him, it is his nature."

Irina mulled over the statement, and what it implied. "Are you saying that he will abandon me for someone else, or forget me?" She felt Ric squeeze her hand in reply, it arrested any immediate doubts.

"No. I can see into his heart, that is not in his nature." Was the voice's response.

Irina declared, "Then I don't care. As long as loves me and desires me at his side, then that is enough."

"Is this what you truly want?" They both tightened their mutual embrace. "Then so be it." A moment later, they witnessed a small, pulsing sphere of light grow within each of them. The spheres slowly exchanged bodies... then diffused within their new homes. "It is done."

Ric and Irina felt themselves being gently separated. "I must repair the injury she has suffered, and make a few minor changes..."

Ric tightened his grip on Irina's hand. "I'm not sure I like the sound of that last part." After the words came out, Ric got the feeling that he was like a child challenging an adult... or a parent.

"Allow me to be generous, and perhaps a tiny bit selfish... please accept it as a parting gift from me." They both sensed the smile in the voice as they were finally separated.

As they drifted further apart, Irina asked, "Will we meet again?"

"That will be up to you, and the choices you make. The best path will bring you back to me." Ric and Irina watched each other's body begin to fade. "Listen to the true heart, it will guide you, and warn you, on your Path to Enlightenment. Know this: courage, strength, will, honesty, compassion, selflessness, and patience... these are virtues you would do well to maintain, rather than set aside when they seem a burden."

===A few moments earlier, inside the Break Room===

Sam watched Hinata place the glowing gem on the woman's chest, then put her hand atop Ric's and the woman's... the gem began to pulse, slowly growing brighter. As much as Sam's intrinsic curiosity urged her to move closer, and launch a stream of questions concerning everything she was seeing... she felt rooted in place, and gripped with a contrary urge to remain silent.

Focusing on the gem, Sam half-guessed that the gem's pulse mirrored the stricken woman's heartbeat... which wasn't a good sign as it seemed to be slowing down. Then, without preamble, the intensity of the gem's glow grew, filling the break room with an exquisite blue light...

===Same time, outside the Break Room, Concourse A===

Naruto edged closer to Jack, glancing at Jeri and the older man, still engaged in a lively... conversation. "What are they arguing about, Jack?"

Jack shrugged in reply. "Dunno, my Russian is limited to hello, goodbye, and... I need a beer."

Daniel supplied helpfully, "The older man keeps insisting that he wants to be with the woman... Irina, in the break room. He says he has orders to get her to..." Daniel lowered his voice. "...SGC."

Naruto replied in a quiet voice. "He's worried, and scared."

Jack noticed that the trio of airport police they had chased off earlier, were all staring at them... no, scratch that, they were looking past them. He peeked over his shoulder and saw a pale blue light leaking out from the bottom of the door. 'Oh crap!' He turned to Daniel and whispered, "Any ideas for a good cover story?"

Daniel resisted the urge to look back at the door. "Let me guess... there's weirdness going on behind us..." He watched the three airport cops go into a huddle, all of them taking turns looking in their direction. "...and..." Daniel fell silent as the hair on the back of his neck went up. He struggled to cope with his recently awakened chakra... churning restlessly below his stomach. He muttered through his teeth, "You feel it too?"

Jack nodded and replied quietly, "Yeah. And I'm glad my stomach is more empty than full." He glanced at Naruto. "You wouldn't happen to know what's going on in there, would you?"

'Hina-chan's using the gem.' Having been inside the temple, he knew, and shook off the growing waves of chakra flowing out the closed room. Before he could reply to Jack's question, Naruto froze as a new wave of chakra, different... and far more powerful than the gem's, passed through him... then relaxed as a peaceful warmth embraced him.

===Naruto's Mindscape===

Restless over the turn of the evening's events, the Kyuubi twitched her tails and reviewed Naruto's memory again... the stormy eyes of the one named Ric, and through Naruto's remarkable senses, a better grasp of his odd chakra.

As she searched her extensive memory with these new clues, she stiffened as a rush of potent... and unexpectedly comforting chakra swept through her. 'I know this chakra...' She fell to her knees as a very familiar sensation embraced her. Still in her hanyou form, the Kyuubi raised her hands and touched her face... tears brushed her finger tips, and she remembered... "kaasan" The word came out as a whisper.

===April 13, 1:51 AM, Concourse A, DIA===

Unhindered by physical barriers, this new wave of chakra flowed beyond the concourse... and while it touched everyone present, only a select few possessed the capacity to perceive it...

===1:59 AM, Break Room, Concourse A===

Hinata opened her eyes and let out a soft breath. She gently picked up the Gem of Life... now in it's usual state, glowing softly. Hinata rewrapped it and put back in her jacket pocket. That done, she looked about the room and noticed Sam still standing motionless and wide-eyed.

With a final glance, she assured herself that Ric and his friend... Irina, were only sleeping lightly. She smiled at the sight of their hands still joined, then turned towards Sam and spoke softly, "Ano... Sam?"

Sam shook herself and sat heavily in the nearest chair. She looked at Ric and Irina. "Are they... okay?" As if on cue, both them began to stir.

Sam cocked an eyebrow at Hinata. "And what was the deal with that voice?" Sam realized her hands were still trembling and clasped them together. "And, what did she mean by 'joining'?

Hinata smiled reassuringly. "I was told that they might be a little... disoriented. Akarumu-sama healed the woman... Irina-san." She withheld any further comment on what else the Sage had done. She assumed that any changes to either of them would become apparent... soon enough.

As to Sam's other queries... "I think it might be better if we waited to discuss your other questions. General Hammond entrusted me with learning more about the Gem of Life." Hinata gently rubbed her temples and sighed. "I think everyone necessary should be present when I talk more about it."

Sam flash-backed to the endless sea of white light, and her own naked, translucent body... she shook her head to clear it. "Okay... I guess." As she looked at the woman laying on the table, her long, shapely legs began to move. Sam noted she was missing a shoe and made a face as she recalled the woman's collapse. "What was wrong with her?"

Hinata replied in a low voice. "There was bleeding inside her head." She moved closer to Sam and added with a whisper, "She was dying..." Hinata shut her eyes as she remembered Ric kneeling and gathering the woman into his arms... and his stricken face. "I did what I thought was right."

Sam saw the look on Hinata's face... she stood up and gave Hinata a hug. "You did just fine... I'm sure Janet would be very proud of you." Hinata's smile in reply was beyond worth.

Sam peeked at the table and saw a fully-awake Ric gently touching the woman's face. She whispered in Hinata's ear, "Come on, let's go find Cinderella's slipper."

Sam immediately hastened a slightly bewildered Hinata out of the room.

===April 13, 2:35 AM, outside Jeppesen Terminal, DIA===

Jack took in the sight of Ric, with Irina wrapped around his arm, and held back a smirk. "So... are we ready to head back to SGC?"

Naruto whined, "I wanna go back to the house, besides all my... our stuff is still there."

Ric kept a straight face as Irina kissed him lightly on the neck. "I suppose we should report in now that we have foreign nationals on our hands." He gave Jack a sly look. "And you can drag General Hammond out of bed at..." Ric glanced at his wristwatch. "...hmm... half past two in the morning, on a Sunday." He reached into his jacket, pulled out a cell phone, and offered it to Jack. "You can do the honors... sir."

Jack eyed the cell like it was a live grenade. "Ahh... on second thought, we do have a lot of things to take back with us."

Irina purred, "Darling, you are so fortunate to have such a clever and handsome commander."

Jack's grin morphed into a frown as he heard a snicker. "Did you have something to add, Major Carter?"

Sam grinned and replied with a thick Slavic accent, "No, fearless leader."

After the laughter died down, Jack shook his head and pointed at the parking garage. "Let's get out of here before Homeland Security scoops us all up for questioning."

Teal'c nodded sagely, "Indeed."

As they walked towards their vehicles, none of them noticed a lone figure step out of a shadow and walk back into the terminal.

===April 13, 9:37 AM, Kitchen, O'Donnell Lodge===

Daniel stirred some scrambled eggs in a large cast iron skillet, then flipped the bacon on the griddle. He announced, "Everything will be ready in a couple of minutes." He tapped the skillet with a wooden spoon. "By the way, what was the deal with Jeri taking off so early?"

Jack grabbed a biscuit and split it. "The good Sergeant had a long chat with the old guy... Razin, and took him back to SGC." Jack smeared some honey on the divided biscuit. "As I understand it, there was a bit of trouble back in Ruskie land... no details on that though, but Razin was pretty insistent about sending a message back to his boss to let him know they got here in one piece."

Daniel nodded in reply and started removing the bacon from the griddle. "Why did Teal'c go as well?"

Jack paused from taking a bite of his biscuit and replied, "He said that he remembered some personal business... something about getting a message sent to Chulak." He took a nibble of the biscuit and added, "That's about all he would say to me. Anyway, Sergeant Hayes said he'd be back in awhile to help carry everything back."

Sam added, "Teal'c was wearing a thoughtful face all the way back here... and I noticed that he kept glancing at Ric and Irina after we got back to the lodge..." Sam shrugged. "...maybe he was thinking about somebody back home."

"So, what was that light coming out of the room all about?" Jack took a sip from his mug.

Sam shrugged in reply. "I asked Hinata about it... but she told me that she'd explain everything after we got back to SGC." She reached for a slice of toast. "Somebody pass me the strawberry jam and..." The remainder of her request died as their newest guest shuffled into the kitchen wearing a indifferently buttoned, thin white shirt... and damn little else.

Irina yawned and waved to everyone, adding in a sleepy voice, "Privyet." She went to the coffee maker and opened the cabinet above it... flashing a very firm and shapely backside as she reached for some mugs.

Sam silently buttered her toast as she watched Jack glancing at Irina's... assets, he quickly refocused on his biscuit when he sensed Sam staring darkly at him. Without further comment, Irina filled and left with 2 mugs of coffee. After several moments of silence, Sam spoke up, "I hope she's got more clothing than that... or Hammond's going have a cow."

Jack smiled at the tone of voice in Sam's observation from behind his coffee mug, and briefly imagined Sam in a similar mode of dress. "I don't think we have to worry about that, I suspect she'll find something from supply to work with."

Sam visualized the tall, shapely Russian in a half-unzipped SGC mission jumpsuit... and various men colliding into walls as she made her way through the base. Sam shook her head to clear away the image. Sam muttered, "That's what I'm afraid of."

===April 12, 7:32 AM, Konoha Hospital===

"Thanks for sharing a room with me, perhaps next time we can do it without our clothes." Jiraiya said to the 30-something brunette nurse with the impressive chest, a small perverted smile on his face. She was at least an F cup he figured, and while he'd seen her around the hospital before, it was never this close.

She smirked briefly and sighed softly. "Don't force me to kick you somewhere... important." She replied, and finished filling out the discharge form on her clipboard, then held it out for him. "I am flattered that you'd make a pass at me... as perverted as it was, we both know you didn't mean it." She added quietly, "And just between us, I'm not interested in one-night stands, even with you."

Jiraiya glanced past her then dropped his pervert mask. "I meant what I said, but if you can keep it a secret, and don't mind an occasional female partner, I do have a very small, select group of regular lovers." Jiraiya replied seriously.

Her eyebrows went up slightly. She checked his expression closely and was genuinely surprised at his unexpected sincerity. "Mokanomi... I'll think about it, but if this is some perverted trick, I promise you every woman in Konoha will be hunting for your balls."

Jiraiya nodded and pulled a card from a concealed pocket inside his gi top, then handed it to her. "If you want to meet the real Jiraiya, leave a message here, she'll be sure I get it." He gave her a winning smile, then grabbed the clipboard and walked around her, opened the door and left the room.

She glanced back at the door to be sure no one was there and briefly rubbed herself through her skirt. "What the Hell, its been over 10 years since I've had any fun." She muttered quietly with a smile, then put her professional face back on, walked out and went back to work.

x

Jiraiya strolled up to the Main Desk with a big smile... noting the name of the young woman posted there. "Hey Kaori-chan, I passed with flying colors, as usual... would you sign me out... and maybe escort me to the door?" Jiraiya asked while leaning on the counter.

She smiled at him. "I'm glad you're alright Jiraiya-dono, but I can't do that. Besides, most of the nurses are glad you were unconscious, and want you gone as soon as possible." Kaori replied with a playful smirk, and a wink, letting him know she wasn't adverse to his presence at the hospital.

Jiraiya put his right over his chest and put on a shocked expression... briefly. "At least someone here has good taste and respect for someone of my status..." Jiraiya announced and did a brief noble pose, then sighed loudly when she giggled. "I get more respect from Tsunade when she knocks me through a wall." Jiraiya grumbled, signed out and left.

Kaori slowly shook her head, smiling, as he walked towards the main entrance.

===A Minute Later, Outside===

"Hmm, I should have time for some breakfast, but what's nearby and has cute waitresses?" Jiraiya said to himself as he considered his options, then smiled and began walking towards his apprentice's favorite place to eat.

===7:40 AM, Ichiraku Ramen===

Jiraiya stepped through the curtain, stopped and smiled at the only other customer... sitting on the right-most stool of 4. His rationale for smiling... that particular stool was basically a shrine, only a very select few were permitted to sit on it. The reason: that was Naruto's regular seat. He walked in and sat on the next stool over. He gave everyone a cheerful grin. "Morning."

"Morning, Jiraiya-dono... I didn't expect to see you here this morning." Sakura observed with a friendly grin.

"Good morning Jiraiya-san, what can I get you this morning?" Ayame asked with an agreeable smile.

"A Naruto Special, chicken... a small, I have an appointment at 8:00." Jiraiya replied. Ayame nodded and turned to prepare it.

Sakura finished her remaining noodles. "I'm glad you're okay." Sakura added in a whisper, "Will you be there later?"

"Hai, that's my appointment, with Tsu-chan." Jiraiya replied in a whisper.

Sakura suppressed a giggle at Jiraiya's pet name for the Hokage and faintly nodded. "Thank you Ayame-chan." Sakura stood and reached into her utility pouch for her wallet.

Jiraiya stayed her hand. "Allow me, any lady allowed on that seat won't pay for her meal while I'm around."

"Thank you Jiraiya-dono." Sakura replied, gave him a smile and proper bow, then departed.

"That was nice of you Jiraiya... Naruto-kun would of been proud of you." Ayame observed, the sadness in her voice was overshadowed by the pride on her face.

Jiraiya hid his sadness, he desperately wanted to tell her that Naruto was alive as she was one of Naruto's precious people... but he couldn't do it. What made it worse was his awareness of how she felt about him. He glanced at the stool... the seat was orange instead of black, and on the far side of the counter across from it was a gold plaque, 12" wide and 8" high. Engraved on it were these words...

* START *

In Memory of Naruto Uzumaki

Konoha Genin / Team 7

Born during the Kyuubi attack

Died age 13

We'll never see his equal again.

x END *

A few moments later Ayame set the extra large, steaming bowl of chicken ramen in front of Jiraiya. "On the house." Ayame declared, kissed her right index finger, touched the plaque and walked back to the stove.

Jiraiya smiled and gave her a nod before he dug in. 'She deserves better for what she's going through... and no matter what it costs, I'm going to see that she get's her due.' Jiraiya thought.

===April 13, 8:50 AM (AKD Time), South West Alaska===

Eriko looked down at the passing Yukon Delta, still encrusted with snow... from what she knew, the spring thaw was still a couple of weeks away. She considered it the perfect metaphor for her current position. 'I should have listened to Min and stayed inside the jet.' The memory of Ric, his companions, and... her, ran through her mind unbidden. Eriko bit her lower lip to chase away the memory of them walking arm-in-arm out of the building.

No, she had far more important things to consider... like the overwhelming chakra that had swept through her. Eriko stared at the DVD disk on the table in front of her, a copy of the airport's security camera feeds. And a pair of DV cassettes... from the vidcams that Min and Ursula had wielded from their hidden vantage points.

She had looked at the security footage shortly after take-off... the mysterious blue light that had leaked from around the door, and it's sudden growth in intensity. The time-stamp of the footage matched the moment the unknown chakra filled her, and her companions, with a sensation of bliss.

And the light wasn't the only enigma... Eriko was beyond certain that Ric's companions had felt that chakra too, her skilled eyes had noted that. However, the supreme riddle was the presence of the two youths in that group of adults. The blond-haired boy, and the indigo-haired girl, the latter disappearing into the room with Ric, and his stricken lover... who had unexplainably left the room under her own power several minutes later.

That room, and the light that had come from it... it was the origin point of that chakra, she was equally certain of that. She was fairly certain that none of the people who had gone into that room was the author of that chakra.

And then there was the matter of the blond-haired youth... he too had subtly reacted to it, but had masked his reaction with such ease that only two possibilities stepped forward... that he was insensate to the chakra... or, he was familiar with that level of power.

An implausible situation... unless he was extraordinary in some way. But that wasn't for her to decide, regardless of her opinion... no, all that had transpired this very morning would be set before the Dai-kage to ponder... and act upon.

Eriko considered the possibility of a return to Denver... and smiled wistfully.

x

End of Chapter 11

x

Author's responses:

cyberbeta: Thanks, they'll travel soon, and you'll find out soon enough.

killjoy92: Will anyone else be on naruto's arm, do you honestly think I'm gonna tell anyone that? *smile*

deathmvp: Thanks, and they are a good couple in the show, can't say if they'll hook up or not.

zmanjz: Thank you very much, I'm very proud of this fic too, my best ever, and hopefully will only get better.

SeanHicks4: Glad ya liked the gunfight a the end, it made a great ending for the chapter.

x

Editor's Note: Okay, loyal readers... first off, don't get spoiled by this early arrival. There was a fair amount of content that got deferred from chapter 10 and placed in this chapter for a better 'fit'. Secondly, don't be afraid to read this chapter a second time... there's a butt-load of details and clues dropped amongst the 30k+ words of the newest installment of NinjaGate, to include a teasing peek at the Gogyo-mon blood-line (my baby, and happily adopted by the author for this fanfic... and yes, there are original jutsus as well).

And, as to why this chapter is so big... coffee, Marlboro's, and discovering a brand of candy bars that my Muse can't resist. Oh yeah, being between terms at school didn't hurt either.

BTW, howdy to all you new readers, I also hope you enjoyed reading this chapter. Feel free to toss in your two cents by way of a review... positive and constructive comments are always welcome.

And now, a few replies from me:

Lord Anubis Judge of the dead: Always glad to see another satisfied customer.

sterata: Sorry about that, but don't worry... most of them are dead now anyway... ;)

WRose: Hopefully this chapter tickled your fancy.

Malix2: Hmm... well, that's your taste, and you're perfectly entitled to it. And yes, your one point is well-taken, there was a bit of 'brushing against the guard-rails' there, sorry about that. All that being said, this is an M fic, and doesn't have (or want to have) the 'House of Mouse' Seal of Approval. As to your hand-wringing about 'sexual stuff'... huh? What part of 'M' don't you get? But you are right, there is some pretty awful stuff on FFN despite the Moderators 'johnny-come-lately' attitude against 'adult content'.

And, since you brought it up, the 'dark side of being kunoichi' gets your knickers in a twist? So what about 6 to 13 year-old boys and girls getting their hands wet with blood? You're cool with the latter (since you didn't mention it), but the former bothers you? Please, forgive me if I scoff at your sensitivities. Naruto may be a Shonen Manga, but the last time I looked, there's some pretty dark shite going on in it... if you're paying attention.

And as what you do and don't want to see in fic... nobody is bending your arm to read this fanfic. Man-up and hang with the story, or not... it's your choice.

skipper 1337: Dude... hint: paragraphs... and pause for a breath now and then. That being said, your enthusiasm has been duly noted by the author... just ease up on the caffeine a touch before your next review. ;)

Albert da Snake: Thanks, glad to see there's at least reader out (who'll take the time to review this fanfic) who 'gets it'. And you're right, the world is full of light, and shadow... it's a package deal. And yes, you're welcome.

Major Simi: you have no idea... glad you enjoyed that half of the story-line (unlike some others...). And hey, your review was double the usual one... come on, let's go for triple next time. :)