Hello again my MasterNaruians and Happy New Year to all of you. 2014 is gone and 2015 is here. A whole new year full of opportunities. Let's make the best of this year, like how I'm going to make the best of the story.

Light thuds were heard in a forest travelling at high speeds. The sun was setting and the group was looking for a spot to catch themselves before continuing onward. So far it seemed hopeless since the ground was littered with trees. The density of it made it impossible to set up camp. It was only enough room to walk through. They all thought of ways to go about this predicament. It was obvious they couldn't go down, they couldn't go up, nor could they go through.

"Nii-san, why don't we make our own little clearing?" Naruko suggested.

"Clever as ever I see," Naruto commented.

Everyone else didn't need the invitation to start destruction. Matter of fact, when Naruko finished her suggestion they were already set. Everyone took cared of the destruction while Gaara smoothed the plain out. Everyone, except Sasuke, pulled out a scroll and poured chakra into the seal. In a puff of smoke appeared tents set and ready. They built a small campfire for light and heat provision. It was time to rest for the upcoming day, but one personal problem remained.

"Don't worry Sasuke. You can use Ino's; it's not like she's going to stay in there anyways," Temari assured.

"Just why won't she?" Sasuke asked.

"Trust me you find out tomorrow."

The blonde couple said nothing as they were holding each other. Ino gave a quick kiss on Naruto's cheek and went into her tent before you-know-who takes it. Soon enough everyone else got in while Naruto and Sasuke sat opposite each other by the dying fire. It was silence between them as each second felt like an eternity. It was clear that their pasts still haunt them in their perspective. Ino came out of her tent making her way over to Naruto's when she saw them.

"What's going on with you two?" she asked taking a seat next to Naruto.

"Ino, I know you feel it too; the awkwardness between us," Naruto answered.

"It's almost palpable," Sasuke spoke.

"Now that you two mention it I do feel awkward. I guess it's from us being on the same team in the past."

"Guess so," Naruto and Sasuke said.

"That aside, I thought you was going to stay in Konoha until we come back Sasuke," Ino said trying to break the awkwardness.

"That'll never happen after I got that visit from Orochimaru. I remember so clearly."

All those years ago

Sasuke lay inside a hospital bed staring at the ceiling. It was night time and there was only a lamp that gave off a dim light. Everything was quiet, easy, and calm; it bothered him too much. He closed his eyes for a second and when he opened it there stood a figure at the foot of his bed. Upon seeing the figure startled him. Sasuke's Sharingan came to life but before he could attack the figure spoke.

"Sasuke Uchiha, at last we finally meet."

"Who are you and how do know who I am?"

"My name is Orochimaru and I've been watching you for some time. I must admit, you've caught my interest."

"I want nothing to do with you."

"I can make you stronger. You will finally get rid of that blonde nuisance of yours. I'll lend you my power."

"If I defeat Naruto I'll do it with my own strength."

Before Sasuke knew it a snake was biting him in the shoulder. He doubled over in pain holding his shoulder. Agonised screams and growls were heard as the Curse Mark appeared on the back of his shoulder. When it was done Sasuke laughed sinisterly. Orochimaru asked him how it felt, but in response he got Sasuke looking at his palms opening and closing them smiling. Before he left, Orochimaru told him to seek him if he wants to get more powerful.

All those years ago

"That's what I call a rude awakening," Naruto said.

"But if not for that I would still be in Konoha surrounded by weaklings and then when you six come I would be as good as dead."

"Speaking about that place Naruto and I should go. So should you Sasuke."

Before he could say anything else Naruto and Ino disappeared into a single tent which disturbed Sasuke greatly. He subconsciously thought of things they might do later on in the night, but dismissed the thought. He went inside Ino's tent, and despite a little disturbed by the fact he has to sleep in a girl's tent, he liked it. Her tent carried her scent which Sasuke enjoyed. Sasuke was envious of Naruto since he had the real thing and he had to settle with the aftermath.

"I'm sure by now Sasuke is taking deep breaths taking in my scent," Ino snickered.

"But it isn't as wonderful as the real thing," Naruto inserted.

"You're going to make me blush." She kissed him and lay on the side of him, for the time being that is. "I can't believe tomorrow might actually be the day."

"Me neither, Konoha lived long enough."

She laid her head on his shoulder and wrapped her arm across his stomach. "I couldn't agree more."

"Before you go sleep, I have something to tell you. I've told the other's, except two people, and they agreed to it."

"What do you have in mind?"

Naruto told her his ingenuous plan and she ultimately couldn't believe her ears. She forced herself to don't laugh, but in the end Naruto had to cover her mouth. He forgot when they were planning something like this she gets overly excited. This time she knew what the outcome will be and awaited tomorrow morning. Naruto closed his eyes and feels another body on his. Without looking he wrapped her in his arms and took in her scent. A small smile graced his face.

"I was right; nothing beats the real Ino. My Ino's scent."

Just a reminder, everything I do is for the plot. We're getting closer and closer to the climatic showdown. Enjoy the new year as much as you enjoy these chapters.