Am I worthy to love you? Chapter 25: Fangs of the snake part 1, a naruto fanfic

Chapter 25 Fangs of the snake part 1: a place to return to called home

Disclaimer: the great Kishimoto-san owns Naruto not me just the story lol.

'' this means thoughts

Bold letters Kyuubi or inner Sakura speaking

Italics are flashbacks

Bold and Italics summons speaking

Authors Notes: hey welcome to another exciting chapter. I have had a lot of complains from the reviews about the Kushina/Itachi pairing that it wasn't going to work, that is weird, that it seems to be rush. All I have to say no the pairing is not going to be rush I will give slow development to the pairing to make it work I assure you it will work. The pairing is essential to the plot you will see in the future, also people are complaining because of the age difference. Yes Itachi in this story is 27 and Kushina is 35 so what it's only an 8 year difference. I have read so many stories where they paired a 12 year old Naruto with a 25 year old Anko or a 50 year old Tsunade, or even a 30 year old Mei. So it's bad that I paired a 27 year old man with a 35 year old woman but it's good to paired a twelve year old teen with an adult woman which is consider illegal, except in fan fiction lol. Before this story gets any further you will learn and like the pairing I will make them grow closer becoming close friends to best friends and so and on. Besides I believe Itachi and Kushina deserve each other after everything they've been through so the pairing is right with me. This chapter and the next has some Naru/Saku and Naru/Hina development along with other pairings. Also there will be some oral sex in this chapter as well as the next one and finally I will try and write the chapter not too long. Although I highly doubt it sorry now on with the chapter, don't forget to review.

(Location: forest region somewhere in rice country territory)

After three straight days traveling nonstop Team Kitsune Flash has finally arrived to rice country. The location to their next mission especially requested by Jiraiya, which it was going to be a tough mission not that they weren't used to getting hard missions. The team has decided to take a rest after their travels camping in a dark forest it's been a while since they have camped in the wild life. They didn't complain they have been staying in inns for a while it was nice to camp in the open every now and then. They were seated in the camp fire since it was dark enjoying a fine tasty meal, a boar they have came across in their journey so they killed it. It wasn't the first time they have kill animals to eat them it was part of their survival exercises they took during the academy they learned different hunting techniques to against certain animals. It didn't bother them to kill an animal with the purpose to eat especially when the boar attacked them it was more on self defense than hunting him to eat it was a coincidence that they were hungry when they got attacked. So far they were enjoying the roasted boar munching at how good it tasted it was enough to satisfy their hunger. However even if they were enjoying the meal there was one member of the team who was thinking about something else than the roasted boar he was eating.

Naruto took another piece of the roasted boar in his mouth in deep thought he had an epression clearly saying that he was thinking about something over and over again. The mission wasn't going to be easy he knew that they were going to infiltrate Orochimaru's main hideout which he founded as the hidden sound village. He never thought he will come here in the first place because the snake sanin was dead he killed him during his fight with Sasuke at the valley of the end, it frustrated that he had to come to this country. Rice country wasn't a bad place the people lived in fear each day due that they were terrorized of Orochimaru's presence, the people feared him knowing that he was a heartless man. The snake sanin would come to any near village looking for potential candidates to be part of his twisted experiments like they were his lab rats disrespecting human life like it was no big concern to him. Most of the people he captured if they belong to ninja clans he will make them fight each other to test their skills to find out which was the strongest with the purpose to become the next candidate to become his next vessel, to use his soul transfer technique so he can continue living. But he was still feeling frustrated with this mission because to him there was no need to come here in the first place that is until he heard from Jiraiya the reason he gave him the mission. It still scared him just thinking about it he still didn't believe what the toad sanin told him a few days ago back at his safe house in field country.

"What…..you're kidding pervy sage?!" he replied shocked while next to him Itachi was in deep thought.

Jiraiya shook his head" I wouldn't be kidding about something this serious. My spy network discovered activity at rice country the hidden sound village is on the move, people from other villages have been getting captured…."

"But what you just said it's not possible!" the blond retorted.

"According to my spy network its true….the people from those villages saw someone resembling Orochimaru's features as the one responsible for capturing some of their people."

"But that can't be it could be someone impersonating him using a transformation jutsu or even a genjutsu just to fool the villagers!"

"I won't doubt the gathering information skills of my network they have always come true and their sources are solid."

"Well check again because Orochimaru is dead I killed him at the Valley of the End he emerged from Sasuke because he absorbed him when he was about to transfer his soul on him."

The toad sanin gazed at him" yet you never brought his body back?"

The tall blond lifted his hands in the air in a sarcastic matter" oh I'm sorry I couldn't bring his body back to Konoha….because he blew up into a million pieces. I killed him using a rasengan bomb with my chakra, the fox's chakra and sage chakra combined meaning the rasengan bomb was very powerful, its power could have killed anyone there's no way he would have survived that!"

"Jiraiya-sama I would have to agree with Naruto-kun. If Orochimaru is really dead then there's the possibility that someone could be acting on his behalf using a transformation or a well perfected genjutsu with the purpose to make everyone believe that he's still alive" Itachi said.

"Thanks Itachi at least someone believes me" smiled the blond.

The toad sanin sighed" look I don't want to burst your bubble but my spy network has never let me down before their information is always a hundred percent accurate. If that was the case then my spies would have seen the transformation or genjutsu they will immediately know if he's an impostor posing as Orochimaru."

"Whatever pervy sage but for once I'm not going to believe your spy network" Naruto crossed his arms.

"I have more information concerning Orochimaru it seems he was interested in the three tails Bijuu."

Naruto gasped while Itachi was in deep thought" what the three tails?"

"I personally don't know the details but it seems that somehow the three tails Bijuu escaped from its jinchurikki host and it's been roaming around in water country. Orochimaru found out and he sent a special team to seal the beast."

"What did they succeeded?!" replied the blond shocked.

"Good news is that the team failed in capturing it but the bad news, it seems the three tails was captured by Akatsuki the must have sealed it already by now" Jiraiya said.

The tall blond growled' damn so another Bijuu has fallen to their hands…'

"That means there are only five jinchurikkis left, they will be cautious from now on due that they have lost man power" replied Itachi.

The toad sanin nodded looking at his student "Naruto if you want to make sure if Orochimaru is really dead then tell you what why don't you go with your team to the hidden sound village and investigate if it's true?"

The blond grinned" I guess I don't mind my team is ready for anything as well as me. All right I'll do it team Kitsune Flash will head to the hidden sound village first thing in the morning."

"Call it a special mission from myself however this time if Orochimaru really is alive I want you to capture him and bring him back to the village. I will send a message to Tsunade telling her of your mission to sound."

"All right"

'I did the right thing this mission will be easy that snake is dead, it's impossible that he survived that rasengan bomb. This must be the work of an impostor who wants to impersonate Orochimaru for his own selfish gain.'

He was thinking too much about the mission that he hasn't touched his food. He didn't even think if the snake sanin was still alive and he was still standing the mission was going to become complicated. They were infiltrating the hidden sound village the nest of the snake, his domain not the place to be in. He didn't doubted Jiraiya and his spy network but he was still denying that he was still alive he was there when he hit Orochimaru with the rasengan bomb. He saw the explosion that took him killing him in the powerful blast he was dead all right the best way is for him to find out and see it for himself if the information from his teacher is correct. By now the kunoichis have finished their meal before they gazed at their leader with some concern in their eyes he stood there without moving without touching his roasted boar. They have come to know him well to realize that something was bothering him. The three kunoichis were worried by the silence of their blond leader and the fact that he hasn't touched his food yet, it made them wonder what could be bothering him to leave his food hanging. The roast boar is very good and it has a very fresh taste.

Sakura gazed at her precious friend with pity and concern in her jade eyes from her mask, she felt like it was her duty to ask him and help him feel better if he was bothered by something. After everything she has gone with him she has come to treasure and cherish his friendship a lot, to her it meant everything especially it was her whole life that it depends in keeping her friendship with the tall blond strong and unbreakable. She took a quick glance at her right wrist wearing the friendship bracelet he gave her hi gift meant everything to her it was more than just a bracelet to her. It was the symbol of how strong her bond with him has become since he gave her the famous second chance. The bracelet has become her most prized possession and she will take a couple of glances every now and then to remember how much her friendship means a lot to her leader. Not adding her strong deep feelings for him she always worries about him when there was something in his mind.

Ino tried to enjoy her roasted boar but she couldn't no matter how many bites she gave to the meat. It was all because of the object of her affections was all quiet without even touching his food something was wrong with him, the rest of her teammates knew as well. She couldn't stand seeing him this way the only thing in her mind was to ask him and find a way to make him feel better it was her job as his team member. It was more than just her commitment as a team player but she felt like she needed to because she cares for him a lot, he was her friend and leader. In addition to her strong loyalty for him her strong deep feelings for him fueled her desire to help him in any way she can. She love him making him feel better and try to make him smile was her top priority. She was a little jealous that Naruto gave Sakura and Hinata gifts but she didn't admit it she made a mental note to convince him if he can give her a nice gift too. She also erased any perverted thoughts about the blond since she already gave him oral sex twice and Naruto gave her oral once, which lead to a very powerful and satisfying orgasm.

Hinata stopped on her eating due that her leader was troubled by something. She couldn't stand seeing him like he had a dozen things in his head, talking to him was the only thing that would make her feel better. Of course she worries it was a stupid question to ask when it involves herself and the object of her affections it was her responsibility to help him no matter what. He was everything to her the blond was her leader, friend and most important person in the entire world. In addition that her feelings for him were so strong the truth is she loves him too much without giving it a second thought, she knew how she feels about him for a long time. Naruto was her life, her pride and joy she would do anything for him because he's too important for her. The white butterfly hair clip he gave her was one of things she has come to treasured and love a lot, the gift meant everything to her. It was a gift from her leader meaning that it was very precious and important to her, she loved it and she was going to make sure to wear it more often so he sees how much she likes his gift. The thought of it made her blush but right now it wasn't the time she wanted to get to the bottom of Naruto's deep thought act just like the rest of her teammates.

"Something wrong Kitsune-sama?" Sakura finally asked her leader.

"Hmm…." He replied still holding a piece of the roasted boar.

"Yeah you looked like you're thinking too much you haven't even touch your food yet" replied Ino.

"Is it the mission?" Hinata gazed at him.

He shook his head" no….the mission is fine it's not that hard I know we can do it. It's something else that is bothering me and I can't shake the feeling about it…"

"It's about Orochimaru then?" the pink haired medic said" you're having doubts whether he's still dead or alive right?"

"Yeah I highly doubt he's alive but I also believe in pervy sage's spy network. They have never lie or misinterpret fake information before, they're always right. I don't know who to believe the only way to find out is going to hidden sound village and investigate for ourselves but I have a bad feeling, that I won't like what I will see when we arrive."

"You have been giving a lot of thought about that you shouldn't. Whatever happens we will face it together" Ino said.

"Temptress is right if Orochimaru is alive we will help you fight him, he won't stand a chance if we fight him as a team" Sakura replied.

"I believe in all of us so there's no need to have any doubts. You have us Kitsune-kun we will be there to help you fight" Hinata smiled at him.

Naruto smiled" you three sure know what to say to make me feel positive again thanks you guys are right. If that snake is alive we will fight him together as a team" he gave his fox grin' if he's still alive that is?'

"Kind it makes you think if he's really alive" replied the Yamanaka" you said that you used a rasengan bomb and he blew up to pieces, so there's no possibility that he could have survived such a strong blast."

"Yes Temptress I've been thinking about that since we left field country I really have my doubts now, but everything will be answer once we reach our destination."

Hinata nodded" then Kitsune-kun don't feel trouble anymore and eat you must be hungry?"

"Yeah Mistress is right eat up the boar is delicious and well done" the platinum blond said.

"I agree we need all the energy for this mission so eat up, but still I can't help but feel sorry for the boar even if it attacked us first. It's strange but I feel like we killed a member of Temptress's family" Sakura said.

The Yamanaka gave her teammate a mean comical look pointing an accusing finger at her" you see I knew you were going t say that make fun of my family name will you!?"

The pink haired kunoichi gave a smirk while Hinata giggle at the joke and Naruto chuckle. It couldn't be help if you were named boar among the mountains. Naruto smiled the atmosphere has suddenly changed and he felt so much better, he no longer had any doubts about the snake sanin. He will find out eventually when the time comes he gazed at his team smiling at them he has asked so many times to himself what would he do without his team. The kunoichis have once again help him in his troubles making him feel better they have become very important to him, he was lucky to have such a great team.

"What about your name Sakura it's not right?!" the frowning Ino said.

"There's nothing wrong with my name it means spring field of cherry blossoms very fitting going well with my hair color" she replied still smirking.

"Then what about Mistress's name?!" the Yamanaka sweat dropped.

Naruto decided to answer for his team member" Hinata's name means sunny place it goes very well with her personality."

The Hyuga heiress blushed at his compliment feeling like fidgeting but she controlled herself from doing so, although she was feeling embarrassed with her stomach full of butterflies.

The platinum blond pouted crossing her arms" whatever I like my name anyway…."

Naruto chuckle seeing the camp fire was starting to fade" looks like we need more fire wood I will go and get it."

"I'll go with you" Sakura said getting up with him.

"But Kitsune-kun aren't you hungry?" Hinata replied worried.

"It's all right I'm not that hungry right now I may eat it later, we have tons of meat from that boar we killed it will be enough for us."

She nodded as she watched them leaving the camp site feeling a little envious at her teammate Sakura. She felt like she wanted to be the one to go with him searching for fire wood, perhaps she was feeling like this because she felt like she hasn't spend enough time with the tall blond. She made a mental note that next time she will be with him there was nothing wrong with being with the man that you had deep feelings for a long time, she had plenty of courage to go through with it. She smiled to herself to be there for him next time she didn't noticed that Ino was next to her giving her the sad puppy eyes.

"Mistress?"

"Mm…what wrong's Temptress?"

"You think my name is cute right?"

She had to sweat dropped at her question.

(Scene change)

Naruto and Sakura went a little too far from the camp site but it was no problem for the two ninjas. They were a little familiar with this forest after their nonstop traveling not to mention that Naruto has been in rice country a couple of time, avoiding anything related to the hidden sound village. It didn't matter to him due that he thought Orochimaru was dead he will have to see it to believe it, meeting the snake sanin face to face will change his mind for good. He made up his mind not to have anymore doubts until he sees what he wants to see his question will be answer with this mission. He picked the pieces of wood that were more suitable to be use as fire wood the search was quiet a little too quiet to have his teammate Sakura, they were that close it was strange that they haven't said a word to each other. Naruto was still in deep thought about the whole Orochimaru not being dead thing and Sakura was also in deep thought, but it was for another reason. She gazed at him he was so concentrated picking up the fire wood but she knew it was something else you didn't needed too much focus when it comes to picking up firewood after all.

She resumed her firewood picking while biting her upper lip remembering something she has seen about her blond friend and leader. The images were still fresh and vivid it was still running in her mind just remembering them made her blush she shook her head picking another set for firewood. She felt her heart beating faster as she didn't know why she licked her lips and why in the world she felt so hot, it scared that she felt wet between her legs in her sacred spot. Just remembering those images she witnessed were enough to make her moan in anticipation but she hold the action, she had plenty of control over her body and actions. She picked her load of firewood never taking her eyes off him by now he seems to have finished picking the amount for the camp fire. However the image was still in her head and even if she should feel jealous and angry she was feeling the other way around, her inner self was probably drooling at the image feeling quite turn on.

"Oh yeah I want to do that to him so badly!"

She stood quiet silently agreeing with her inner persona and she was only thinking if he would feel happy if she goes with it. She took another look at her at the friendship bracelet he gave her her most precious possession she will truly do anything for him in a heartbeat without giving it a second thought. She wanted to make him happy in anything no matter what she finished picking up her remaining share joining up with the mask mercenary.

Naruto nodded gazing at the amount he and the pink haired kunoichi had" there we go that will be enough firewood to last the camp fire let's go back Huntress."

Sakura instead she put the firewood down on the ground without making too much sound so that her leader didn't notice it" Naruto?"

The mask mercenary hearing his real name blinking he turned to see that his team member has pulled down her hood along with her mask, he felt something was wrong" what is it?"

He got no reply from the pink haired teen so he went closer to her. He followed her lead putting down his collection of firewood pulling down his hood and taking his mask off meeting her in the eyes" Sakura….what's wrong?"

The pink haired kunoichi turned her back to him taking a couple of steps back making him worried than he used to" Sakura….?"

"I…..I know about your oral sex session with Ino" her tone was a little loud it sounded in a mix of all kinds of emotions.

Naruto's eyes widened from shock and terror hearing those words coming out of her mouth. He stood there before his skin was now looking pale like a ghost he didn't know what to say but to feel scare. The pink haired medic still had her back turned to him while he was so scared that he couldn't move, couldn't speak, and couldn't do anything at all. What could he do besides running for his mind he had no idea how she figured out but he knew that he couldn't stay here for too long. He knew Sakura was going to be angry at him for doing something so perverted with her best friends none the less, he feared that some of the hot temper Sakura will emerged and beat him to death. Sure she promised she wasn't going to hit him again but finding about this was probably enough to piss her off and lose control, he prayed to Kami that nothing goes off horribly wrong. He gulped still not seeing her expression soon he started trembling very soon he will feel the powerful chakra from increasing and she will send him a death glare that would make anyone piss their pants off. He could hear the Kyuubi chuckling in amusement like he was enjoying the show the fox could be so annoying at times.

'Oh shit….that's it I'm dead I am so freaking dead….she's going to murder me and bury me where no one will find my body. She will be pissed any minute now and her rage will flare high giving me the beating of the life time….this is not happening….this is not happening!'

"You foolish brat I have no intention of dying don't let her hit you. You're stronger than her…"

'Sometimes Sakura's anger can be way stronger than my own strength and after what she just told me I can tell that she will be so angry, like she has never been angry before.'

"I said it again….you're such a pussy."

Sakura finally turned to him making the blond braced himself for the upcoming beating but he was surprised seeing her expression. The pink haired kunoichi's expression wasn't showing any anger or hatred whatsoever there was no negative emotion in her face which was shocking him a lot, usually she will be beyond angry with him. Something was wrong with her as he looked into her face he noticed that she seems to be nervous or embarrassed not exactly the kind of behavior he was expecting from her. He no longer felt afraid but he was worried about her expression this wasn't like Sakura at all she took a step in front of him looking like she was afraid of what she was about to tell him.

"Sa….Sakura you okay?"

The pink haired teen ignored his question getting closer to him" would you….would you like it if I did it to you too?"

His cerulean eyes widened not feeling like he understood the question" huh….what?"

By now Sakura was blushing looking embarrassed for about to say it for a second time" would you like it if I give you oral sex too?"

Naruto was beyond shocked he felt like everything around him has stopped giving time for his brain to analyze what he just heard. He wasn't dreaming he wasn't hallucinating the one and only Haruno Sakura has just asked him if he wants her to give him a blow job, it was impossible to actually believe it. The blond wasn't the only one who was shocked the Kyuubi was in the same boat as his container, like Naruto the fox was expecting that he was going to get his ass kick by the pink haired medic. He took one step back his eyes were still wide never expected he would hear someone like Sakura asked him such question it was scary he never thought she was the kind of woman who would ask to give someone a blow job it was completely against her character, it was against who she is. But he could tell that just by looking in her face she really meant what she just said her expression was sincere despite that she was feeling nervous it was reflected in her jade eyes. She really wanted to go through with something like giving him oral sex, not that he didn't wanted getting a blow job from the girl he had a huge crush for years was like a dream come true to him. He faced her she was still blushing he was going to make sure to give her an answer.

"Sa….Sakura I think I may have something in my ears and I didn't hear it well. Did you just ask me what I think you just asked me?" Naruto was still dumbfounded about her question.

The pink haired kunoichi sighed getting annoyed that she has to repeat herself" yes I asked you that if you want me to give you a blow job but I'm not obligating you, if you don't want to I will understand I'm not expecting you to agree I…."

'I must be a complete idiot to say no to her' thought the blond with a grin.

"That came from out of nowhere I wasn't expecting that. The pink haired vixen wants to suck you up you've been waiting for this for a long time."

"So what do you say Naruto?" Sakura was nervous but worst of all she was embarrassed to asked such question she would never forgive herself if he refuses her offer.

Her leader pulled her closer making her blushed at how close their faces were namely their lips, inner Sakura was cheering in victory while she stuttered" Na…Naruto….?"

"First of all Sakura how do you know about Ino giving me oral?"

"I….I saw her back at the inn when we were at field country. I opened the door slightly because I heard soft moaning and I recognized Ino's voice, I saw her sucking you up. I also saw when you give her oral too I'm sorry I know I have no right to barge in there without properly knocking please don't hate me Naruto…."

The blond put his hands on her shoulders to calm her down she looked like she was ready to cry" shhh it's all right Sakura I don't hate you I will never hate you. I'm more surprised you reacted like this when you found out I kind expected that you were going to get angry at me and hit me."

"I promised you I wasn't going to hit you again Naruto and I meant it…."

He smiled before grinning at her" so did you like it?"

"What!?" she replied shocked her whole face was blushing from embarrassment.

"You know did you like watching me and Ino doing oral did it turn you on watching us?" he gave a perverted grin resembling his teacher's.

"I….I….y….not of course not I was shocked but I….." she was still blushing.

"I'm such a terrible liar!" inner Sakura cried comical tears.

Naruto chuckle" it's all right Sakura don't worry you don't have to tell me. But as for your request I can't say no to you, go ahead if you're up to it" he grinned like a pervert again.

The pink haired kunoichi was still blushing but she nodded while inner Sakura was cheering very happy. She made her first move as she moved her face claiming his lips in a soft passionate kiss she moaned in pure satisfaction as she made contact with her leader's lips, the feeling was amazing. She knew kissing the blond will be so good, pleasing and orgasmic. Naruto reacted to the kiss pulling the pink haired beauty closer to him he returned the kiss in the same amount of passion as his team member caressing her gorgeous shoulder length pink hair before he opened his mouth with his tongue. Sakura moaned as the blonds' was begging for entrance and she gladly invited it by opening her mouth and soon both ninjas were now having a full tongue war while each gave soft moans of pleasure and satisfaction. Naruto groaned in pleasure it just as he thought it will be to kissed Sakura, he has always wanted to know how good it will feel to taste her lips. Now one of his many dreams has come true resuming the passionate kiss with the pink haired medic he already felt his manhood reacting getting rock hard, kissing her was truly satisfying indeed. They broke the kiss due to the lack of air in their lungs while panting, Sakura was blushing but she gave him a nod that she was going to proceed with the oral act. Although she was dizzy from the intensity of the kiss it was just simply amazing that she couldn't describe it with mere words.

She got on her knees and unbuttoned his long cargo pants while Naruto was still grinning seeing the pink haired kunoichi ready to give him oral sex. As she pulled down his pants her jade eyes widened seeing the large tent that has formed on his green boxers, she gulped with a blush she decided to touch it. The tall blond groaned at the feeling of having his manhood touched he actually like the way she was teasing him even if she probably hasn't realize it yet. Sakura was blushing the entire time feeling his penis through the fabric of his boxers it felt so big and hard, she finally lost her patience she wanted to do this already. She gathered enough courage to pull down his boxers only to gasp in shock at what she was seeing, she was speechless. She was now staring at Naruto's twelve inch manhood which it was an impossible size, according to her. As a medic ninja Sakura knew about the male reproductive organ and she has seen dozens of penises in medical books they all were average size six to eight inches, but nothing compare to this. Her mouth stood wide open revealing her shock at the inhuman size pillar of flesh in front of her which it was throbbing for anticipation she has never seen anything like it before. Then she remembered what Kushina said about her son's private part if he took after his father she didn't believe it at first but she imagined it fantasizing about it, looks like she was wrong after all.

Naruto was still grinning at the way the pink haired teen was staring at his throbbing manhood he admitted he was pretty big and he was proud of it. He was getting so anxious and inpatient waiting to feel her mouth sucking his wonder rod he could even feel like he was about to have an orgasm from the anticipation. He licked his lips staring at the pink haired kunoichis as she grabbed his cock stroking it a little her blush never left her face it showed her insecurity, her embarrassment and the anticipation because deep down inside she really wanted to do this.

'Damn I wasn't expecting it will be this big…I don't think I'll be able to fit it entirely in my mouth…'

"I will have to see it to the very end time to test how deep my throat is to suck his big log!"

He groaned a little due to the soft strokes she was giving him" you can start whenever you like Sakura."

She nodded stroking it a little more looking at him with some uncertainty in her jade eyes" look this is the first time I'm doing this so don't complain if I'm not doing a good job okay?"

He grinned" don't worry I have a feeling you will do just fine."

She nodded nervously her eyes fell on his twelve inch pillar of flesh she blushed once again at the size she erased any perverted thoughts looking at the wonder rod. Following her instincts Sakura opened her mouth and took his manhood in her it was too big so she deep throated him as much as she could. Naruto groaned in pleasure as he felt the pink haired beauty's mouth taking his cock it truly felt so good he noticed that she could only take almost half of it into her mouth, but it will be enough for him. Sakura pushed her face back and forth sucking on her leader's wonder rod working her tongue all around it making sure she didn't used her teeth she would obviously hurt him if she does, hurting him was the last thing she in her mind. She moaned while sucking him she never imagine it will feel so good to suck a man's penis her actions was affecting her as her body felt so hot and she was so wet between her legs. She was getting so aroused sucking on Naruto's cock while the tall blond was moaning her name he wasn't complaining like she told him he loved every minute of it, for her first time she was doing an outstanding job. He had to admit that the pink haired medic was doing an even better job giving him head than Ino the Yamanaka was wild and passionate but her best friend had skill, he couldn't believe it was her first time giving oral sex.

"Oh Sakura yeah keep it up you truly are skillful at this, I expect nothing less from granny's successor."

"Mmmmmmmm…." The aroused Sakura moaned trying to take more of his wonder rod in her.

'Amazing…it feels so good Naruto's penis is so hot and big I just can't stop sucking it'

"Hell yeah I will suck him dry and drink his entire tasty load!" shouted the aroused inner Sakura licking her lips

Naruto gave a loud groan as he wanted more of the pink haired medic he had the urge for Sakura to suck the entire length of his cock. He decided to help her in order to suck his entire twelve inch length by moving his hips rapidly, the sudden action made Sakura's eyes widened. She felt like she was choking because she couldn't take his entire manhood in her mouth but she still try, by now she was so wet that her pants were getting wet too from her fluids. She moaned moving her face faster while her leader was doing the same thing with his hips trusting his hard cock in her mouth. He groaned louder because it was feeling even better than before knowing that if this keeps up he was going to reach his limit he hold Sakura's head tucking some of the pink hair that was covering her face, he wanted to see her beautiful sucking on his huge pillar of flesh. The pink haired teen felt like she was going to explode from an orgasm even if she has never experience one before, but she felt like it would happen due to her arousal level and her hormones going into critical stage.

"Oh shit Sakura keep working your tongue all around it I'm almost there!"

"Hmmmmmmmm….."

'Dear Kami help me I feel so hot and I'm so wet I don't want this to end.'

"I can just imagine having that huge dick stabbing my wet pussy over and over again mmm…." inner Sakura licked her lips her arousal was equal to her outside persona.

Naruto moaned his eyes widened it was coming his climax was near he cursed because it felt so good he didn't wanted the oral sex session to end. But like his teacher Jiraiya told him all good things must come to an end, sad but true. He could feel it his orgasm was going to be a huge explosion he needed to warn his horny team member.

"Sakura I'm going to come swallow it all!"

"Mmmmmmm…."

His cerulean eyes widened again feeling his release" I'm coming!"

Sakura's eyes widened as she felt a powerful blast of the blonds' cum hitting her mouth. The hot thick fluid was gushing in her mouth it was truly a huge blast. She was shocked there was so much cum her cheeks were full from the large amount of his seed, there was so much that some started falling from her lips. But nevertheless she happily and feeling very proud she slowly swallow the cum she actually liked the salty yet sweet taste of her leader's hot seed. She removed her mouth from his cock resuming her swallowing she has read from medical books that the male seed contains all kinds of nutrients which it was good for her, so there was no shame for her to swallow cum. Especially if the cum belongs to her blond friend, leader and the person she held deep and strong feelings for. Soon she swallowed all the cum smiling at the blond while she still had some of his seed at the corner of her lips. The image of Sakura swallowing his cum and smiling at him because she love it will be forever recorded in Naruto's mind forever to watched the girl he has like for so long in such an arousing sight felt like a fantasy come true, along with the fact that she gave him a blow job. Sakura was still smiling before she realized she still had some cum on the corner of her lips, she happily licked them until her lips were clean.

Naruto chuckle" you know Sakura for your first time giving oral sex that was outstanding."

She blushed from the compliment" I….I just followed my instincts that's all…"

"Those are some instincts indeed" he looked at her arousal in his cerulean eyes watching her get up" it's my turn now."

"What?!" she blinked in surprise.

Naruto went to her pulling her so he was behind her and started fondling her breast through her uniform while another hand reached her nice ass. The sudden action made Sakura moaned in anticipation but she hold the thought no matter how aroused she was, she felt so stupid for thinking about it.

"N…Naruto…." She moaned softly at the way he was groping her ass and her breasts.

"Just relax Sakura since you gave me an amazing blow job I will make sure to deliver when I give you oral" he kissed her cheek followed by her neck as he felt her C cup breasts through the fabric of her uniform along with the awesome feeling of fondling her nice ass.

She blushed as she gave a soft moan" Na….Naruto wait….I….I'm not ready for this not yet!"

"What….?" he stopped his ministrations on the pink haired teen" what's wrong?"

"I….I'm sorry Naruto but I'm not ready for this please forgive me."

"Fuck!" inner Sakura cursed pissed off at her mistake.

The blond had to groan mentally he was disappointed not to mention he was very horny. Even after his powerful release his twelve inch cock was still rock hard and throbbing like crazy. He couldn't but feel a little angry with himself he was going a little rough with Sakura he was rushing things a bit even if he was only going to give her oral. He understood how she felt she was nervous and uncomfortable perhaps his hormones got the better off him. He let go of her not realizing that Sakura had an expression of disappointment he pulled his boxers back on his manhood was still hard along with his pants.

"I'm sorry Naruto…." She replied softly.

"It's all right Sakura don't apologize I guess I was being a little too fast with you I didn't mean it. I can't blame you I guess you got nervous don't worry about it. We have been out here for too long let's go back to camp with the firewood" he put back his fox mask along with his hood and carried his share of the firewood leaving he turned to her giving her a grin" remember Sakura if you need a helping hand I'll be right there for you whenever you want to relief yourself."

The pink haired kunoichi blushed hearing that imagining Naruto helping her masturbate before the blond left he gave her a soft kiss on her lips he licked his lips loving the taste and she did the same thing wanting to taste more of his lips, she bit her lip reflecting her arousal' that will be nice….and so pleasant….'

"Fuck damn it!" inner Sakura was still cursing she wasn't happy in the least.

'Note to self masturbate later' thought the aroused Naruto.

"Pussy" the Kyuubi was disappointed in him.

'Shut it fur ball!'

Sakura sighed her whole body was still hot and she was pretty much wet not to mention bothered. She was so horny and she was upset for not letting her leader give her a helping hand or oral sex, she was pissed for being so stupid. The only option she had left was to relief herself but she has never masturbated before but she didn't had the guts to do it, she was so unsure of herself. She sighed pulling her hood back and her mask taking the firewood she has gathered following the mask mercenary. She sighed again but this it was mentally she decided to wait until her arousal ends but she didn't know how long it was going to take but she hope it was going to be soon, she couldn't bear to stay feeling like this for a while she will die from having her hormones driving her crazy.

Inner Sakura was feeling worst than her outside persona she was currently banging her head on a imaginary wall showing her frustration and anger for missing great sexual pleasure and the possibility of having an orgasm" stupid stupid stupid STUPID!!!"

(Scene change)

They returned to the camp fire seeing that Ino was still going at it with Hinata. The Yamanaka had comical tears falling because she knew her name wasn't cute and feminine it sounded manly not fitted for someone like her. Naruto put the firewood on the fire followed by Sakura seeing the other two kunoichis talking, the blond smiled at the Yamanaka. Best of all he wasn't feeling arouse anymore his manhood returned to normal size he felt better now he wasn't the only one, Sakura was feeling a little better her arousal leaving her body little by little. They got seated meeting the rest of the team while Hinata was happy to see them back. Both Naruto and Sakura gazed at each other giving a smile although they weren't feeling comfortable with what happened a while ago. It was best for them not to make the atmosphere uncomfortable or their friends suspicious at their behavior, Naruto threw the firewood into the camp fire. Sakura followed him but remained quiet after what just happened with her friend and leader remembering the way he fondle her beasts and ass, it was enough to make her have an orgasm.

She erased the perverted thought from her mind' easy Sakura best not to think about it you don't want to get arouse again.'

"I'm glad you guys got back" Hinata said.

"Sorry for making you guys worry it took us a while to get the necessary firewood" replied Naruto giving a sheepish grin.

"I'll say you guys left over an hour ago" Ino joined the conversation.

"Oh….that long?" Sakura said sounding shock she was trying not to get nervous not wanting her teammates to get suspicious, if they find out what happened between her and the mask mercenary both Ino and Hinata might end up hating her especially when she has come to cherish their friendship more than anything.

"No need to worry they're back now that's what matters" Hinata replied smiling.

The Yamanaka nodded before she went to her dilemma topic" guys please be honest with me my name is not womanly right?"

Both Naruto and Sakura sweat dropped at her comment.

"Temptress you're still talking about that?" asked the blond.

"Hey I have the right to know because I highly doubt that boar among the mountains doesn't suit well at all for a beautiful sexy kunoichi like myself."

"Does it really matter?" asked Sakura.

"Of course it does I want a more womanly name which I have decided I want you guys to help me think of a new name for me."

"Temptress you really want to change your name?" Hinata said.

The platinum blond cheered" yeah what better way to think for new names with the help of my best friends come on don't be shy and give me new suggestions for a new name?!"

"Temptress I don't think it's right to change your name" Naruto said in deep thought" for starters don't you need to ask permission from your family for approval first?"

"Yeah I guess you're right about that but I'm sure mom and dad would agree that I change my name."

"I don't think so" Sakura replied" they will probably feel disappointed that you're choosing to change your name."

"Why is that?" the platinum blond blinked at the question.

"Because they will think you don't like being part of the Yamanaka clan" Hinata said" they might even think that you're not proud of being part of their clan."

"Mistress has a valid point both of your parents might get hurt with your decision you should be proud that you're Yamanaka Ino" Naruto said.

The platinum blond sighed feeling a tinge of guilt" you guys are no fun now I'm feeling guilty I don't know if I should change it."

"Your name is important to your family clan and the village of Konoha, my advice don't change it no matter what it means" Sakura said as she gave a smirk" besides I like calling you Ino pig."

The Yamanaka frowned at her" you can be quite a brat sometimes Huntress."

"I'm being honest with you" she smiled at her.

"We can continue with this little topic in the morning" replied the mask mercenary getting up" team let's get a good night sleep we will resume our journey to the hidden sound village first thing in the morning."

The kunoichis nodded as they went to their respective futons to get some sleep. Naruto used his water canteen to put out the camp fire as he went to his futon to get some shut eye. Unaware of them that they were being watched this entire time far away from the team's location an individual was watching standing on a tree branch. She was using a crystal sphere as a telescope to watch over the camp site she has watched everything that happened except hearing their conversation, she sadly admitted she wasn't very good in reading lips. The spy was none other than Guren who was smirking at her discovery she knew very well who they were, after hearing so much about them. She has heard all the rumors from the other countries making them popular and dangerous the team that has become well known around the five countries looking at their uniforms and masks her suspicious were confirmed. They brought fear into the hearts of other of bandits and missing nins everywhere anyone would pissed or crap their pants if they ever meet them, or they prayed not to meet up with them. The rumors that those who fight against them would only be having a death wish they would be getting a slow painful death with the possibility of having your soul devour by their leader.

Yet there wasn't a single hint of fear in the young woman's face it was rather determined full of focus. Of course she knew that most of those rumors she heard were crazy like a little kid came up with them, she knew when someone was exaggerating that it's ridiculous. They may be strong but not strong enough for them to be gods or inhuman creatures with insane strength that will outmatch the five kages put together, there was no need to feel scare especially when something important to her was at stake. She didn't care of the consequences of her actions she will whatever it takes to fulfill it, not even the strongest ninjas could change her mind. She gave a grin looking at the location of the camp site it's true she was outnumber but she can take care of herself and hold on her own in a fight, it wasn't the first time she has fought someone strong and won with her life intact. She was still grinning in amusement while deep inside she was so relief to have found them, at least she can take her mind of her original mission for now.

'Team Kitsune Flash….I have actually found them they could be here because they're after Orochimaru-sama this is perfect. If I kill them now Orochimaru-sama will most likely be please, he might even forget about my current assignment and my past failures.'

She jumped down from the tree branch keeping her eyes on the location of the team's camp site. Soon her dark eyes softened at the memory of someone in her mind, she will do anything that person. She remembers her mission and she ordered not to fail again or she will be kill punishment for her failure but she didn't care if it meant that this would work. After all she deserves to die for all of her past mistakes and sins.

'This plan……it could be the only way to save him….'

(Time skip)

Team Kitsune Flash were sleeping soundly in their respective futons they needed the rest so they can continue with their mission in the morning. None of them had no idea that they were surrounded by four figures not too far from them without making any noise they slowly reached the four sleeping ninjas. The four figures were none other than Guren with three clones and she was grinning at the sleeping ninjas, she couldn't believe it was going to be this easy to kill the famous team Kitsune Flash. It was too good to be true to kill one of the most dangerous and strong teams in the five countries so easily the thought made her laugh but sometimes the toughest opponents can be quite easy to kill. The real Guren got next to Naruto while her clones went next to the three kunoichis, all four of them made a crystal dagger strapped on their right hand ready to go for the kill on the team. She grin she could see the reaction of the snake sanin when she tells him that she killed team Kitsune Flash today was really her lucky day.

'So much for team Kitsune Flash never thought it would be this easy'

They stabbed the ninjas at the same time just before Guren gave a satisfactory grin to savor her victory they all vanished in a cloud of smoke.

She gasped' what shadow clones?!'

"You seem to be surprise?"

The crystal kunoichi gazed above seeing the source of the voice. Standing on top of tree branches was team Kitsune Flash their leader was smirking at the woman along with her clones.

"I can't believe you would fall for such a trick" he replied.

"Yeah you can't possibly believe you will defeat us that easily" Ino said.

"We knew you were coming here all along" Sakura replied.

Guren grinned" I'm actually happy that you knew of my arrival even if I was too quiet for anyone to notice my presence."

"That may be but I sense your chakra signature from not too far and my friend right here Mistress saw you coming with her special ability" he gazed at the Hyuga heiress thanking her byakugan.

"It will be better this way I can kill you through hard work I want to savor this moment for my master. The name is Guren the person who will defeat you all."

"She's using shadow clones" Hinata said gazing at the three copies with her byakugan.

"Not quite" replied the crystal kunoichi with a grin.

They jumped charging at them as they sliced the tree branches making the group to jump out of the way. Sakura blocked Guren's attacks the same with Ino and Hinata, the real Guren went straight at Naruto who wasn't even fazed by her speed. The mask mercenary grinned using his wind full body current against the kunoichi, she gasped before she got a cut on her left cheek. She fell on the ground on her feet while her clones were having a hand full against the rest of the team. The kunoichis were keeping up with her clones blocking and dodging their attacks she was able to tell why the team was pretty famous and dangerous. She blocked an incoming punch from Naruto which shocked her at the force of the attack she managed to block it but barely.

'Looks like the rumors were true they're really a force to be reckoned with…'

Ino dodged the attack from the Guren clone using her jade crystal blade she countered using biting her neck" I got you the poison will paralyze you but I'm sure you're a clone!"

She threw a couple of shurikens hitting her making sure she hit vital points, once it made contact it turned into shattered crystal.

The blond blinked" what….crystals?"

"Temptress don't get near those crystals!" Naruto shouted at his team member blocking an attack from the real Guren.

"What?" Ino replied.

The crystal kunoichi grinned making hand seals" crystal release jade crystal prison!"

The Yamanaka was suddenly caught in a small crystal pillar prison like she was frozen inside.

"Temptress!!" Sakura shouted in shocked seeing her best friend trapped in the crystal prison.

"That's one down three to go" Guren said her two remaining clones joined her.

"You will pay for that!" Hinata cried trying to keep calm she was concerned for her teammate.

"Not to worry you will join her too" she replied grinning.

Suddenly Ino's body from inside the crystal prison vanished replaced by a snake.

"What a snake?"

The real Ino jumped besides the team grinning" miss me?"

"You always have to make a grand entrance don't you?" Sakura said with a sweat dropped.

"You know it!"

The blond chuckle gazing at Guren" now I know who you are just by watching you fight using those crystals"

"She uses crystal jutsu I can see the chakra pattern flowing through her crystal clones" replied Hinata with her byakugan.

"Crystal jutsu I never heard of such element affinity" Sakura said.

"That's because there isn't any element affinity like that Huntress" replied Naruto looking at the crystal kunoichi" I heard from pervy sage's spy network that there was once a village in which the people had the ability to manipulate and create crystals, it's a bloodline limit but then the village was destroyed in a attack. You must be one of the survivors of that clan with that bloodline?"

"You've been doing your homework well Kitsune Flash its true however I am the only survivor of my village…." Guren's dark eyes softened she erased the memory of her past not wanting to think about that now.

"So you're the sole survivor of a unique clan with a unique bloodline limit. Yes I bet I can get a lot of money with your capture in the black market" Naruto gave a grin.

"Lots of money equals a happy team" Ino said grinning evilly' I can finally buy that tiny bikini I've secretly wanted for a while now, so I can model it for Naruto hehe.'

"I'm just another bag of money to you right?" Guren glared at the team.

"Since you ask yes but first….before we capture you I would like to know who sent you after us, I would like to know about this master of yours" replied the tall blond.

The crystal user smirked at him" what would you like to know?"

Naruto's cerulean eyes hardened" I would take a guess is….is it Orochimaru?"

"Lucky guess" Guren grinned.

"So Orochimaru knows were here already?" Hinata said.

"Not at all I was merely lucky enough to find you. If I kill you right here and now Orochimaru-sama will reward me handsomely."

"Sorry to disappoint you Guren but that won't happen I have changed my mind in capturing for money however. You work for Orochimaru meaning you must know where exactly is the hidden sound village so you will safely take us to the place without activating any of the traps inside" replied Naruto.

Guren growled as she made hand seals" crystal release hexagonal shuriken!"

She released a barrage of crystal shuriken in the shape of a hexagon but Hinata got in front of the team" kaiten!"

She used her heavenly spin technique to reflect all of the shurikens while Naruto summoned a shadow clone holding two rasengans charging at the two crystal clones" double rasengan!"

The crystal clones were shattered defeated in battle the crystal user was about to perform another technique never realizing that she has been marked by the seal of Naruto's flash kunai. She gasped as the clone vanished and the real the blond appeared next to her pointing the flash kunai on her neck, she never saw it coming.

"This ends now…." He replied remembering that he needed her alive.

Guren vanished being replaced by a small pillar crystal making the mask mercenary gasped" damn….a crystal substitution not bad."

'I have you now' thought Guren behind him making hand seals.

"Kitsune-sama look out!" shouted Sakura.

"What?!"

"Crystal release pentagonal prison!"

Naruto quickly jumped back seeing that the small crystal that Guren used as the substitution turned into a giant crystal pillar' that was close…'

'He was lucky….if he would have gotten caught he would have been dead' thought the crystal kunoichi.

She used her jade crystal blade to block the shurikens and kunais Ino and Sakura were throwing at her, she made an opening and started running jumping through the tree branches.

"After her we need her for questioning she could be the only one to get us safely to the hidden sound village!" Naruto said.

The team followed jumping on the branches trying to catch up to Guren while she wasn't happy that she was being tailed. In just a short encounter with the mask team she was able to tell their strength and skills, with someone with her experience she knew it wasn't going to be easy. She focused her chakra on her feet to increase her speed expecting that the group was going to do the same thing, and they did. She knew she wasn't going to be able to outrun them and she needed to set a strategy to fight them, she quickly took a smoke bomb from her dress pocket and threw it at the team.

"Shit!" the blond cursed seeing the large cloud of smoke.

They were by the thick cloud of smoke making them coughed it was enough to give the crystal kunoichi time to escape and take her time for the next encounter. Naruto wasn't in a good mood losing sight against someone who it was important to capture, they clearly could take her on together but she got the better of them. He made a mental note not to underestimate and make the same mistake again.

Ino coughed through the smoke" I can't see a thing!"

"Mistress where is she?!" Naruto said.

Hinata coughed looking around byakugan activated" I….I can't see there's too much smoke…"

The blond growled making hand seals" wind release air bullet!"

The powerful burst of air from his mouth was enough to get rid of the smoke irritated at the fact that she got away' I shouldn't done this as soon a she threw that smoke bomb….smooth move Kitsune Flash.'

"Looks like she got away" Sakura said.

"She was important for our mission" Ino replied.

"I don't think she has escape" Naruto said looking at the team" she said she was going to kill us and she seems to be stubborn, she doesn't look like the kind of person that won't back off when she has made her mind about something."

"Talking about personal experience?" the Yamanaka grinned.

The tall blond smiled at her comment" I am pretty stubborn let's search the perimeter Mistress take the lead!"

"Right!" replied the Hyuga heiress with her bloodline activated.

(Scene change)

Guren jumped from a tree branch landing safely on the ground. She has escaped from the team but she had the feeling that they will come after her and reached her soon, she was in deep thought. She remembers why she was doing this and loyalty has anything to do with it there was something bigger to why she was so devoted to kill the team, bringing their death was part of saving someone who means a lot to her. Her encounter with team Kitsune Flash wasn't as she expected now she knew some of the rumors were true they weren't regular ninjas she was certain of that but the outcome of the fight was obvious, that she doesn't stand a chance against the team. She gazed around the forest thinking that she didn't have any time before they find her she needed a strategy to fight them in her own territory.

'Fighting them all at once is suicide I have to find a way to split them up, it will be better to fight them individually. I also have to make sure that they don't get any ideas to escape.'

A grin was formed in her lips looking above the forest' I got it…'

She focused a lot of her chakra from both of her hands she created crystal flowers as they grew on the ground. She ran across the forest creating more of the flowers they were growing everywhere she grinned as she created another large number of them. Once they were enough and in every direction it was all that she needed to bring forth her plan, again she focused more chakra from her body. Thinking about that person she wanted to protect she has vowed to get rid of the mercenary team, she made hand seals.

"Crystal release jade crystal labyrinth technique!"

The crystals flowers have grown turning into large numbers of red crystals. They grew huge covering a large part of the forest, the entire area was been encased by giant red crystal dome. The crystal kunoichi grinned at her technique with this she was going to make sure team Kitsune Flash doesn't get the better of her again her technique was going to be very effective.

'They will be forever lost in the labyrinth and this is my domain, time for the next step of my plan.'

She made another set of hand seals" crystal release jade crystal mirror!"

In front of Guren a clear mirror appeared making sure her reflection was seen in the shiny mirror she made more hand seals" crystal release crystal clone technique!"

From the mirror emerged four Guren crystal clones.

"Four will be enough now go!"

The clones nodded leaving the crystal user was grinning' the hunt has begun.

(Scene change)

The team was shocked as they were running through the forest making them made a complete stop. Gazing above they saw a large red crystal dome covering up the sky they had a bad feeling about this, their chase for the crystal kunoichi has gotten complicated. Hinata looked using her byakugan but she was having problem seeing around the crystal dome she couldn't believe her bloodline was giving her problems. The one thing that confused them was the fact that they could see so many reflections of themselves in addition the route of the forest has completely changed as well. They were surrounded by pieces of red crystal that formed part of the labyrinth everything was now made of crystal around them. They looked everywhere and labyrinth itself was starting to confused them of its design and every single detail, they were going to have trouble crossing the red crystal maze.

"What the heck is this thing?!" Ino said.

"This is her doing" Naruto replied his eyes hardened with anger.

"She's doing this to get an advantage in battle. Judging by its appearance she probably wants to us to split up so she can take us on one by one" Sakura said.

"That makes sense she knows that she can take on us as a team" Hinata said.

"Not to mention that we outnumber her" Ino added.

"Mistress can you see through this maze?" the mask mercenary gazed at his team member.

The Hyuga heiress stood quiet feeling ashamed that there's nothing she can do, deep inside she was afraid her leader will hate her or even reject her for her failure" I….."

"What is it can you see with the byakugan?!" replied the tall blond.

"I….I c…." Hinata paused again fear entering her.

"Mistress what's wrong?" asked Sakura feeling concerned for her teammate.

Hinata gritted her teeth" I'm sorry everyone….I can't see through this maze my byakugan can't see straight through this place, it's all so confusing…"

"No way the byakugan can't see through it?!" Ino was shocked.

Naruto nodded' I see so not even a strong bloodline like the byakugan can't find a way out of this crystal maze, I have to admit that woman Guren really knew what she was doing trapping us here like rats.'

"I'm sorry everyone…." Replied Hinata feeling bad she felt so useless to the team.

"It's all right Mistress this place is very confusing it looks like a house of mirrors" Sakura said smiling at her trying to cheer her up.

"Huntress is right don't feel bad Mistress we weren't expecting to fight someone with an unique bloodline" the blond mercenary looked at her giving her a slight smile.

The Hyuga heiress nodded with a smile" thank you" she kept her eyes on her teammates and leader' I promise I won't be a burden next time.'

"What are we going to do now Kitsune-sama?" asked Ino.

"Stay together it's the only thing we can do for now. Guren has even up the playing field with this crystal maze so it works on her favor she has the advantage now, no matter what happens we can't split up. Like Huntress said she probably did this to separate us on purpose."

The team nodded they could only wait and try to find a battle strategy to fight the crystal user. The red crystal labyrinth was really a very confusing sight everywhere they looked it was full of crystal being used as mirrors to reflect their reflection, they were really in a maze of mirrors. They have fought opponents before but this one was becoming troublesome and complicated to fight they could see they weren't dealing with an amateur, Guren had a lot of experience. Naruto growled mentally looking around only the crystal maze to be very annoying that will make anyone die of confusion, seeing all the crystal structures and designs.

'Damn it we're like rats trapped in a maze that crystal looks very tough, I don't think our explosives kunai will be able to break through it or a rasengan for the matter.'

He gasped sensing some chakra sources coming their way" heads up team we have company!"

The group looked around still seeing their reflections on the red crystal labyrinth when they caught sight of four Guren heading their way they all had the jade crystal blade on both arms.

"More crystal clones" Ino said.

"The real one must be hiding" Sakura replied.

"Figures she will hide while she let her crystal dolls fight us" Naruto snorted

'My byakugan is probably useless as long as we're inside this labyrinth I will have to stop relying on it for this occasion. I don't have a choice I will have to fight relying on memory remembering where her chakra points are located' Hinata thought deactivating her bloodline.

The kunoichis used their projectile weapons kunais and shurikens while they countered blocking them using their jade crystal blade. Naruto reacted taking one of the flash kunais focusing his chakra on the seal of the kunai he marked all four crystal clones with the seal.

"We don't have time for this!" he replied vanishing and all of the clones were defeated in a blink of an eye.

The kunoichis were in awe as they saw the display of the four Guren clones defeated in a second, they all returned to being nothing but broken crystal. This was probably the first time they have seen their leader using the jutsu that gave the nickname yellow flash to his father. It was also the same jutsu that lead the fourth Hokage to wipe out an entire army of stone ninjas during the third great ninja war. They couldn't helped but feel fascinated by the way their leader defeated them so quickly it made them see how strong he was, along with blushing slightly.

'Just like that…' thought the awe Sakura.

"He's so cool!" inner Sakura gave a fan girl squeal.

'Not bad coming from a blond hunk like Naruto' thought Ino giving a perverted grin.

'Naruto-kun you're amazing!' in her mind Hinata sighed dreamily thinking about the blond the object of her affections.

The mask mercenary turned to his team" everyone let's stay close and try not to lose each other as we go through the maze, we need to find Guren the real one."

"Right!"

They walked through the crystallized forest as they were being watched by Guren using her telescope technique. She grinned everything was going according to her plan this time she was going to make sure that every move counts, no mistakes no failure. She has already made another move before facing them in person it takes time to defeat a strong team like team Kitsune Flash they weren't an ordinary team.

'You can't escape this labyrinth will be your resting place.'

The team resumed their walking on the confusing red crystal maze they quickly saw more Guren crystal clones heading their way. Once again the four clones were using the jade crystal blade technique on both hands making the team feel annoyed at their presence.

"This is getting old" Sakura said.

"More like annoying" replied Ino.

"How about both?" Hinata asked.

"Both are good" Naruto said as he charged at one of the clones.

Naruto used a rasengan on one of the clones destroying it while Sakura blocked an attack from her jade crystal blade with her kunai. The pink haired kunoichi countered with one of her chakra powered punches destroying another clone. Ino was quick as she summoned a snake from her sleeve wrapping its body on both of her arms preventing the crystal clone from attacking, she grinned as the snakes vanished replaced by a lot of paper bombs attached to a wire. The explosion took the third clone while Hinata has used her empty palm technique on the last clone.

"Everyone all right?" asked Naruto.

"Yeah we're okay" Sakura replied.

"Crystal release crystal encampment wall!"

A large wall got between Naruto and his team separating them from each other. The wall was long enough to extend all the way through the entire crystal labyrinth it also seemed to be very resistant to attacks.

"What?!" Sakura said.

"Kitsune-kun!" Hinata replied.

"We're trapped!" Ino joined.

"This is much better."

Naruto glared seeing the real Guren next to him" looks like you want to fight me alone."

The crystal user grinned" trying to separate all of you is annoying its better that I kill you first Kitsune Flash then your team will follow."

"I've been wondering Guren" started the mask mercenary" you said that you found us by luck and according to you Orochimaru doesn't know a thing of us being in rice country, meaning he didn't gave you the order to kill us so why are you bothering to do the job without receiving any orders from him?"

The crystal kunoichi stood quiet in deep thought one person came to her mind, in order for her plan to work. She decided to keep the secret from anyone Naruto was expecting that she will tell him while the rest of the team was waiting a fight between the two ninjas. She only gazed at him giving her own evil grin that says a lot like how cold and cruel she really is, at least that's what she wanted them to think.

"I just feel like it I will do anything to please my master Orochimaru-sama. You and your team are very well known among the five countries with some high bounties, I wouldn't want anything else" Guren grinned creating a jade crystal blade on her left hand.

"Sounds like a fair reason I guess" the blond looked at the three kunoichis" sorry to say this team but you will have to let me handles her, not like you guys have a choice."

"We'll be fine Kitsune-sama" Sakura said.

"Be careful" Hinata replied.

"Go and kick her ass!" shouted Ino.

Guren made hand seals" crystal release crystal shuriken!"

She released a couple of her own crystal hexagonal shape shurikens while the mask mercenary grinned at her attack.

"Again" he made hand seals" wind release air bullet!"

He blew the shurikens away like they were leaves with his strong air burst from his mouth.

"You think your wind can defeat my crystal jutsu?!" the crystal kunoichi created another crystal shuriken only this time it was ten times bigger than the other shuriken" take my giant hexagonal crystal shuriken!"

Naruto created a bigger rasengan on his right hand" odama rasengan!"

He slammed the big spiral sphere of chakra against the giant shuriken destroying it to pieces while Guren was grinning at the sight she has focused her chakra creating small crystal particles she was ready to perform another attack against the mask mercenary.

"Crystal release hexagonal shuriken wild dance!"

This time she has released a large number of her crystal shuriken like it was a storm of weapons. Naruto tried to dodge them all while using a kunai to block some, but he was caught by a barrage of the crystal shurikens.

"I got you….' Thought Guren with a satisfactory grin

"Kitsune-sama!" Sakura shouted.

The kunoichis were shocked seeing their leader stabbed by a dozen crystal shurikens hoping that he was all right. They were caught in surprise along with Guren when the blonds' body vanished turned into a wooden log, they smiled at the sight.

The crystal user growled' substitution damn him.'

"Mass shadow clone jutsu!"

POOF!!!

Guren looked above shocked seeing so many shadow clones falling from the sky she didn't let the numbers intimate her. She jumped using her jade crystal blade while on her free right hand she created a large crystal spear like a fierce demon she attacked the clones without any mercy. The mask mercenary grinned before he made a hand seal and all of the shadow clones transformed into a dozens of shurikens which shocked the crystal kunoichi a lot. She was surrounded by so many shurikens it was impossible to dodge or block all of them soon she was caught by the storm of shurikens. Naruto however was expecting she will use a crystal substitution like she did before but she stood right there with her body covered by the shurikens, only that she was unharmed by the projectile weapons. She was grinning at the shocked blond and kunoichi team she looked like the shurikens wasn't giving her the biggest amount of pain at all.

"What the hell you…you didn't used a substitution jutsu!?"

Guren chuckle as she removed the shurikens from all over her body" I don't have to….my crystal armor is enough."

"Crystal armor….but you're not wearing anything like it!" replied the mask mercenary.

"It looks like it doesn't it" she grinned" but my crystal armor is very thin and invincible surrounding my entire body it protects me from all kinds of strong attacks, it's impossible to the naked human eye to see."

Hinata activated her byakugan seeing that she still couldn't see clearly because if the red crystal maze' it's no use the byakugan can't even see Guren's body filled with the crystal armor her crystal labyrinth technique is very effective against my bloodline.'

"I guess you're just full of surprises" Naruto replied' she's going to be tougher to beat than I thought.'

Guren was still grinning' still using the crystal armor has a great risk, it takes a lot of chakra I can't keep it activated for too long.'

She charged at him and managed to land a couple of blows on the blonds' face, she used a kick but Naruto blocked it.

He was really feeling the pain from her hits' damn that hurts….she can sure hit.'

The mask mercenary punched her it caught her by surprise he smirked seeing that she felt the blow" what do you know you're hurt just as I thought. Using a strong defensive technique like your crystal armor has a flaw doesn't it?"

The crystal user didn't reply as she launched a couple of attacks only to be blocked by the tall blond he had the advantage in the taijutsu match so far.

"It takes a lot of chakra to use it doesn't it?!" he caught her fist while he kept his smirked" you can't risk it you have used a lot of chakra and your probably reaching your limit, however I still have plenty of fight left in me."

"Shut up!" she snapped at him launching another punch at him.

"Yeah Kitsune-sama teach her a lesson!" Ino shouted cheering her leader.

"Everyone I have a plan" Sakura said getting their attention" were going to try and break free from this crystal wall I don't like standing with my arms cross while Kitsune-sama is fighting on his own."

"I agree even if he can surely win this fight without any help" Hinata replied.

"All right we're listening not bad that you're using your role as second in command eh Huntress?" the Yamanaka smirked.

The pink haired kunoichi nodded" we're going to use our strongest attacks to break through."

"Got it" Hinata said.

"I'll see what I can do" the platinum blond nodded.

"Let's build up chakra for the attack."

"You think it's over!?" Guren said outraged" it is not I can still fight!"

Naruto shook his head" no you can't just look at you you're panting a lot you have used a lot of chakra from using your bloodline too much."

The crystal kunoichi panted thinking about the reason why she was doing this' he's right I'm almost out of chakra no….I will not fail….I can't fail him…'

"I will defeat you Kitsune Flash!" she made hand seals" crystal release tearing crystal falling dragon!"

From the crystallize ground a pink crystal dragon emerged with light green eyes Guren got on top of its head while Naruto admitted that he was impressed by the sight, but he wasn't intimidated.

"There's more where that came from!"

She made more of the same hand seals repeatedly forming more of the pink crystal dragons ten emerged for a total of eleven dragons counting the one where Guren was standing on the top of its head. The mask mercenary still wasn't intimidated he took a glance at his team he had a feeling that they will be breaking out of the crystal wall, he had this fight won if he played his cards right.

"My dragons will finish you off Kitsune Flash!" replied the crystal kunoichi.

"Whatever you say Guren looks like you want to fight me until you become too exhausted to fight either way you were a worthy adversary"

"Stop talking like this fight has ended!"

"It already has!"

The crystal dragons charged at the blond while he made hand seals" shadow clone jutsu!"

POOF!!!

Ten clones appeared as they dodged the attacks from the crystal dragons all of them formed different kinds of rasengan in their hands, ready to use them on the dragons.

"Rasengan!"

"Double rasengan!"

"Odama rasengan!"

Guren was shocked as she saw all of her crystal dragon being crushed by the mask mercenary's powerful attacks, every single one was shattered to pieces like broken glass. The shadow clones vanished leaving the real Naruto and a panting Guren but they both turned when they heard a loud noise coming from behind them.

"Hell yeah!"

"Eight trigrams divine celesty barrage!"

BOOM!!!

The three kunoichis have destroyed the crystal wall that Guren used to keep them trap until she finishes her fight with their leader, unfortunately she wasn't expecting that they will break out free. Sakura used a powerful punch charged with her chakra while Hinata used her strongest technique from her gentle fist art which she developed and Ino used a couple of paper bombs attached to kunais. They reunited with the blond facing off against the crystal kunoichi who was looking exhausted.

'Damn….they broke free from the crystal wall I….I can't take them all at once I used too much chakra already.'

She made her jade crystal blade appeared barely facing them her reason the person was still in her mind she couldn't fail him' I will not fail….'

"It's over Guren" Naruto said.

"I told you it's not over yet!"

"You can't take on all of us looking all tire" Ino said.

Guren charged at them with her jade crystal blade but she was marked by the seal of Naruto's flash kunai, once again the mask mercenary has appeared next to her in a blink of an eye. He pointed the kunai to her neck keeping in mind that they needed her alive for the sake of their mission.

"It's really over this time."

The crystal kunoichi launched a punch but the blond blocked it countering with a fist of his own knocking Guren unconscious. He sighed the fight was finally over he took some chakra rope from his kunai pouch wrapping it around her body making sure it was tight to keep her confine, he turned to his team. The three kunoichis didn't look happy they were a little disappointed because they didn't help their leader in the fight. They always wanted to prove their abilities in battle in order to meet Naruto's expectations always doing their best and help him in any way they could, they were a team always fighting together side by side. The mask mercenary picked up Guren carrying her on his shoulder before turning to the team trying to make themselves feel good for failing in helping him fight.

"Well that takes care of this problem" replied Naruto.

"Yeah now we have to find a way to get out of this crystal maze" Sakura said.

"Guren must know how" Hinata replied.

"I don't think we're going to wait for her to awake from her nap to tell us, in addition I doubt she will tell us all care free" Ino said.

"I agree with Temptress we can't wait inside of this place I doubt this jutsu will be lifted unless Guren reverses it and it doesn't look like the kind of jutsu that will vanish for a time period either" the mask mercenary gave a sigh.

"What are we going to do now Kitsune-kun?" asked the Hyuga heiress.

"I got it how about if we try to break through the crystal maze the same way we did with her crystal wall?" asked Sakura.

"Not a bad idea let's find one of the ends of the maze" replied the tall blond.

"I hope it works the crystal from her labyrinth looks tough probably tougher than her crystal wall" Hinata said' not to mention that it can even deceive the byakugan I never thought it would be possible.'

"Let's move on carefully remember that Guren designed this place to confuse us" Naruto said.

"After this I won't be looking in a mirror for a while" Ino said.

"That makes two of us Temptress" replied Sakura.

They walked through the forest with extreme caution the crystal labyrinth was an unreliable place where anyone could get lost. Fear emerge on the three kunoichi that they might never leave the crystal maze but they didn't let the though get the best of them, they always looked towards a positive end. After a couple of minutes they reached a dead end another wall of the red crystal labyrinth was blocking their way from leaving outside of the forest.

"Whenever you're ready team" replied the mask mercenary.

They nodded facing the crystal wall forming part of the labyrinth preparing their attacks. Sakura charged chakra on her left fist while Hinata got on her gentle fist stance and Ino took a couple of paper bombs, repeating the same thing they did to break Guren's crystal wall.

"Hell yeah!"

"Eight trigrams divine celesty barrage!"

"Take that!"

The combination of the attacks caused a strong explosion filling the crystallized maze as they stood waiting for the smoke to clear out. When it cleared out they were shocked that the wall was still intact without a single scratch the combination of their attacks didn't worked at all.

"You got to be kidding me!" Ino said.

"I don't believe it…." Sakura said with wide eyes.

"All of our strong attacks didn't do a single crack on that crystal wall" replied Hinata with equal shock.

'That's one tough wall' thought Naruto as he gave a sigh" team take Guren and fall back let me handle this."

"What are you going to do?" asked the pink haired medic while Ino and Hinata carried the unconscious crystal kunoichi.

"I'll use one of my strongest and most effective techniques" he grinned looking at the wall' if a rasengan bomb won't destroy it then nothing will.'

He watched the kunoichis getting distance from her leader carrying the crystal user as he gathered the necessary condense chakra to perform the rasengan bomb. In a few seconds the explosive spiraling sphere of chakra formed on his right hand he grin at the wall like he was ready to say goodbye to it.

"Take this rasengan bomb!"

He threw the blue sphere on the crystal as he left running for his life joining the rest of the team.

BOOM!!!

An even bigger explosion from the one that the kunoichis made with their attacks combined was formed from the rasengan bomb. The team waited patiently for the smoke to clear although Naruto was very confident that the red crystal wall has been destroyed to pieces from the powerful explosion. A couple of minutes later the smoke finally clear out while the mask mercenary headed to the destroy place, with a grin on his face.

"Let's get going team" he smiled looking at the three mask kunoichis.

"Um….Kitsune-kun" Hinata said with a sweat dropped along with a baffle Sakura and Ino.

"What's with those faces team we…." The blond paused when he looked in front of him his mouth was wide open" what the hell?!!"

The crystal wall was still intact not even a single scratch or the smallest of cracks was present on it. Naruto's eyes became bug like freaking out at the sight he was gazing around in a comical way.

"What just happened?!" he shouted with a sweat dropped" my rasengan bomb didn't work the crystal wall is not even dirty from the explosion, it's all shiny and clean what gives?!"

'Not even Kitsune-sama's rasengan bomb couldn't destroy it' thought the worry Sakura.

'Looks like we won't be leaving this annoying labyrinth any time soon' Ino thought.

Hinata sighed she already felt bad enough because her byakugan was useless inside of the crystal labyrinth, she felt like she hasn't done her part for the team. Their strongest attacks didn't work looks like they will have to think about something else in order to leave the red crystal maze she noticed that Guren was opening her eyes.

"Kitsune-sama Guren's awake!"

The mask mercenary felt relief walking to the team and their captive" good timing she's the only one who can tell us how to escape from this place."

The crystal kunoichi opened her eyes looking around only to see team Kitsune Flash, she immediately has remembered the fight she has taken noticed that she was tied up by a chakra rope" what the…"

"Don't try to move you're our prisoner" Ino said.

Guren eyes widened before they softened thinking about her failure, she has failed yet again but worst she failed her important person' I'm sorry Yukimaru….I have failed you…'

"Glad that you decided to wake up soon from your nap Guren" Naruto said smiling at her.

The crystal user glared at him with so much anger for her defeat at his hands" you won't get away with this…"

"I already have but we don't have time to play hero and villain right now. We need your help."

She raised an eyebrow at him" and you think I'm going to help you what's in it for me if I do help you?!"

The blond grinned" well for starters you can keep your life without experiencing a very slow and painful death."

The three kunoichis have to roll their eyes at their leader's comment he was doing it again. He will always make an idle threat sounding very convincing when he was just lying, it wasn't in him to torture someone to death no matter who they were. He was only doing this to convince Guren to help them with escaping from her crystal labyrinth.

The crystal kunoichi however wasn't faze by his threat" go ahead and get it over with I have nothing to lose. I have failed too many times if I go back Orochimaru-sama will obviously kill me for my failures."

"Look we only want to know how to escape from this maze?" Sakura said.

"Escape?" she blinked.

"That's right we want to leave this confusing place once and for all so tell us already!" replied Ino.

"How do we leave from your labyrinth?" Hinata repeated her teammate's question.

"I don't know" she replied coolly.

Naruto's left eye twitched in annoyance" you don't know?"

"This is the first time I have used the jade crystal labyrinth so your guess is as good as mine."

"If that's true then how are you going to leave from your own technique?" the mask mercenary was really annoyed.

"Yeah you performed a jutsu you never tried before without knowing how to escape from it" Sakura replied.

Guren slightly shrugged her shoulders because she was tied up" I never thought about it besides the technique is more designed that I used it from outside not so I can stay from the inside…"

Naruto growled at her" that's enough and stop talking bull crap it's obvious that you can reverse your labyrinth technique, you're just being stubborn all because you don't want to say how to escape!"

The crystal kunoichi didn't answered there was no point to say anything at all she failed to protect him someone close to her now he might pay with his life. The mask mercenary was ready to lose his cool with her his patience was growing thin he knew what to do to make her talk, the best logical solution.

"I think I know of a way to escape from the labyrinth" Sakura said to the group.

"You do Huntress?" Hinata replied.

"Really?" asked the Yamanaka.

"I guess so…"

"Are you sure Huntress?" Naruto looked at her.

"Yeah it won't hurt to try but this is the only thing that comes to my mind if we want to leave from this place."

"Whatever it is it's hopeless" snorted Guren.

"Nobody asked you crystal psycho!" snapped Ino.

"Go ahead Huntress were with you on this" replied the tall blond while Hinata nodded at her.

"Right keep your distance everyone this could get messy" the pink haired kunoichi gazed at the wall she walked towards it until she was touching the surface.

'Good luck Huntress' thought Naruto.

The pink haired gazed at the wall before she went into a stance crossing her arms clenching her fists. It was a familiar stance that the blond recognized watching it from someone else before.

'What that's….'

"The first gate Gate of opening open!"

A powerful burst of chakra came from Sakura's body causing some shock waves to be released. Naruto, Ino, and Hinata had to take a couple of steps backs from intensity of the chakra and the waves they were in awe at the sight Guren was in the same boat as well she has never seen such a powerful level of chakra before. They have seen this before back at the chunin exams when Lee fought Gaara it was the work of opening the eight inner gates located inside the human body in the chakra circulatory system. The powered up kunoichi launched a punch hitting the crystallized wall everyone gasped as it turned into millions of cracks going all the way in the entire red crystal labyrinth, everyone was shocked. The pink haired medic has destroyed the whole crystal labyrinth with just one punch it was now raining crystal pieces that once belonged to the crystal maze, the sparkling of the small crystal shards made it very beautiful as they fall like rain drops. The group along with Guren was still shocked at the sight just recently none of them couldn't break through the crystal labyrinth not even Naruto's rasengan bomb, but it only took one punch from the pink haired teen to demolished not just one of the walls of the maze but the entire labyrinth.

'It's not possible….she broken through the whole labyrinth with just one punch. But her sudden chakra increase I never felt anything like it…' thought Guren.

'Amazing Huntress' thought Ino

'Huntress you have truly become very strong' Hinata thought with a smile.

Naruto was still shocked staring at the pink haired kunoichi it was proof that she has really trained hard while he was away from Konoha. He was really impressed from becoming the best medic in the five nations surpassing Tsunade's medical skills, to becoming a real kunoichi in strength. He was feeling so much admiration and pride in Sakura how much she has changed from a silly shallow girl to a mature, strong and reliable woman she was a true kunoichi.

'Unbelievable' the mask mercenary's eyes were wide' I can't believe she has learned to open the eight inner gates she only opened the first gate and she managed to destroy the entire maze. I don't even want to know how strong she will become if she opens three of the gates.'

The powerful wave of chakra finally lifted from Sakura's body as she started panting feeling the side effects of opening the gates, she smiled her attack did it they were finally free from the labyrinth. Although she was feeling tire from using a lot of chakra it was the first time she has opened one of the gates she felt like fainting but she managed to hold her off from doing so, she was able to stand without collapsing.

'Gai wasn't kidding when he said that you will feel exhausted even when opening the first gate, I feel like I have fought a tough battle and win.'

"You okay Huntress?" asked Naruto walking towards her with the rest of the team.

"Yeah I'm fine…"

"I didn't know you could open the eight gates."

She chuckle" I always find time to get some training from Gai he may be lame but he knows how to turn someone strong."

The mask mercenary was still staring at his team member he was really impress with her progress' granny's training and bushy brows sensei's training equals one big power boost. Opening the gates can easily make her one of the strongest ninjas in Konoha, Sakura you really weren't wasting time staying in the village while I was training with pervy sage…'

"All right way to go Huntress!" Ino said congratulating her teammate.

"You were amazing Huntress" Hinata replied.

The mask kunoichi blushed from the compliments" oh come on you guys that's enough you don't have rub it in like that."

"I will have to agree with the rest of the team you have become very strong. Combining your attacks and not even the rasengan bomb were able to destroy the crystal maze, but you were able to pull it off on your own congratulations Huntress" replied Naruto smiling at her.

The pink haired medic was still blushing from the embarrassment she wasn't getting used to in being the center of attention, or being praise so often only when she was successful in her training with Tsunade.

Inner Sakura however gave the victory sign" hell yeah I'm number one who's da kunoichi it's me?!"

"Thanks everyone" smiled Sakura happy that her team acknowledged her skills.

"Well since were finally out of the labyrinth" the mask mercenary went to the tied up Guren" it's time that you answer us a few questions, like for starters tell us the exact position of Orochimaru's hide out?"

"I won't say a word to you just get it over with and kill me already!" she replied in anger.

Naruto sighed in defeat" I'm sorry you feel that way like I wasn't expecting that you weren't going to talk oh well. Temptress she's all yours!"

Ino gave a sadistic grin it's been a while since she has interrogated someone. This is exactly what she needed to make herself feel better after all she was more the interrogation and torture specialist than a combat fighter. Guren didn't know what was going on seeing the mask kunoichi heading her way and she didn't like it with the sadistic grin she had in her face, but she could tell already it was nothing good.

The tall blond passed her by" you're going to wish you would have told to me when you had the chance."

Naruto left with Sakura and Hinata leaving the Yamanaka alone with Guren of course they weren't going to stay and witness the torture session from the platinum blond.

The crystal kunoichi showed her no fear" whatever you're going to do it will do you no good I won't say a word."

Ino gave her a cheerful smile hiding her sadistic nature" we'll see about that commencing interrogation."

While the group was walking they heard a scream that reflected a lot of pain, they immediately recognized the voice belonging to Guren. That was a sign that their friend has begun with the torture session or to call it safe interrogation. Sakura and Hinata were scared out of their minds hearing the painful screaming not imaging what their friend and teammate was doing to the crystal kunoichi.

Naruto shivered in fear' I don't want to be in Guren's shoes right about now.'

(Scene change)

(Location: Hokage office fire tower Konoha hidden leaf village fire country territory)

It was a happy day in Konoha indeed at least to some people at a certain degree. Members in the council were please and happy to find out that Kushina was alive after all these years, to have her back in the village was really good news to them. With the exception of a certain war hawk that was well aware that the red haired kunoichi was still alive and she was very hard to track down. The meeting was a well welcome for the red haired woman happy to be back in the village that became her new second home, the same village she married Minato and gave birth to their son the same village where the nine tails fox attacked and her husband gave his life to save it by sealing the demon fox in their new born son. The same village where her tragedy worsen when Danzo deceived her that her baby Naruto was dead due to the sealing it was part of the hell that her life became. Her life turned for the better when her son forgave her giving her a second chance to be in his life, a chance she wasn't going to waste. She enjoyed her staying in the leaf village ignoring how she reacted when she saw Danzo again without causing a scene remaining calm, the important is that she was back and everyone was happy to see her again.

She was now in Tsunade's office in presence of both the two sanins who they were one of the people happy to have her back in the village. The female Hokage was overjoyed to have Naruto's mother back she did got acquainted with her before leaving Konoha things can finally settle down. With the red head kunoichi back Naruto can finally have a happy living in the village having his mother here, when he returns from his missions with his team. Jiraiya was in the same boat as the slug sanin how he wanted for Naruto and Kushina to reunite and be together it's what he wanted and what Minato wanted too. The feeling of nostalgia as soon as he walked into the village gates it felt so familiar to her but at the same time it felt so new, she has been gone for a long time. There were times she just wanted to escape and never return to Konoha because it brought her nothing but bad memories. Thinking that her son was dead because of the sealing and losing her husband in the process, running away and never coming back seemed to be the only logical explanation. But she was an Uzumaki and they were the clan that never go back in their word giving up isn't in their dictionary adding that they were also stubborn as hell.

Tsunade smiled" once again I welcome you back to Konoha Kushina."

"It's good to be back Tsunade but I think you already have given me plenty of welcomes along with the council" the red haired woman smiled.

"It can't be help Kushina were all glad that you're back to the village, you're part of Konoha too just like any citizen" Jiraiya replied smiling.

"Yes it sure has been a while since I have last being here the village has become bigger than the last time I was here…"

"The council was really surprise when they saw you, they were also happy to know that you're alive" Tsunade said.

"Everyone except for Danzo" the toad sanin added.

The slug sanin gave him a glare for screwing up mentioning the elder's name in front of the red head which caused him to back down in fear it was never pretty when she was angry, he decided to stay quiet. Kushina however didn't take it lightly her blue eyes hardened for a moment revealing her hatred for the war hawk but she returned to her normal expression, she smiled at the two sanins.

"There will always be people who won't be happy or sad when they see old acquaintances….like him I'm not expecting anyone to miss me. I wasn't the kind of person who was always walking among the village so freely and frequently back then when Sarutobi kept my marriage with Minato a secret, a lot of people won't recognize me."

"The important thing is that we recognize you and we did missed you Kushina, I know very well that this village brings you some sad and painful memories believe me I know about that" Tsunade's eyes softened remembering her brother Nawiki and her boyfriend Dan.

"There's nothing that can be done now what is done is done, we can't change the past. What matter is the present and I will make sure I treasure these moments from now on."

"Come on you two let's not talk about sad memories we should be happy that you're finally here. This is your second home Kushina so make the best of it" Jiraiya said.

"He's right there's no need to think about the past like you said the past is gone the only important thing is to focus on the present" replied the blond Hokage.

Kushina nodded" by the way Jiraiya you said that Naruto was going to the hidden sound village"

"I gave him the mission to go to rice country and investigate the sound village with the purpose to capture Orochimaru alive this time."

"Though I believe Naruto killed him for good hearing that he's still alive really bugs me. Orochimaru was always a wild card and a big threat to Konoha because he was a former ninja of the village he could easily give his knowledge on the village to other hidden villages or enemies in exchange for their support. We don't want to repeat another incident like the sound and sand invasion back at the chunin exams."

"Don't worry Naruto is on the move he will get to the bottom of this but I would like to know how did he survive getting hit by a rasengan bomb, it's clearly the strongest rasengan next to the wind release rasen shuriken" replied the toad sanin.

"That snake was always hard to kill he's too stubborn to die, he was always searching for a way to require immortality to fulfill his ambition in learning all the jutsu's in the world" Tsunade said.

"Will he be all right?" Kushina said.

"He'll be fine Naruto can take care of himself he's Kitsune Flash and he's not alone. His team is with him they're not one of the strongest team out there for nothing" Jiraiya gave a confident grin.

The red haired woman smiled" you're right I'm just getting worry for nothing, you know mother's intuition can be a real pain."

"Just relax and enjoy your stay in the village Kushina. Naruto will return someday eventually" Tsunade smiled.

"You're right I have waited seventeen years to be together with him what bad will it do to wait a couple of months more?" the red head gave a big smile ready to leave the office" well if I'm not needed I will be taking my leave I want to resume my life in the village once again I'll see you later."

She turned her back grabbing the door handle.

"Kushina?" Tsunade started getting the attention of the red haired kunoichi.

"Yes?"

She gave her a serious expression" don't do anything stupid we know how much you hate Danzo for what he did to you. Unfortunately Danzo is a big asset to the village's military defense system, don't let your hatred get the best of you."

The red head smiled" I just returned to Konoha after seventeen years I'm not thinking of causing any problems, I'm not going to try and kill him if that's what you're saying?"

She grabbed the door handle again glaring at the door clenching the handle with all her strength' but it's very tempting….'

The two sanins watched her leaving the office with a smile hopefully things can finally calm down in the village, and they can get better for Naruto when he returns. Jiraiya was smiling widely feeling like one of his dreams have come true he has his family again his godson and the woman he sees as the daughter he wished he had. A few tears of joy were about to escape his eyes before he dried them not wanting Tsunade to notice that he was going to cry, although he failed Tsunade noticed it but she remained quiet. He walked towards the window of the office gazing at the Hokage monument his eyes were fixed on the face of the fourth Hokage. Remembering his former student and pupil the kind of person he was and how happy he got when he was about to start a family with Kushina and his unborn son, this is what he wanted. He was happy feeling like he was being watched by his student feeling proud of his deed.

'Minato I did it…Kushina and Naruto are together they are a family once again after everything they have been through…'

Tsunade stood watching her friend smiling with a smile of her own. She knew him too well and the time he was happy when he was doing his perverted research, or writing his novels. This was a special occasion his smile really reflected true happiness it was the same smile he will give whenever he was with her, although she didn't know why though. After all these years she still couldn't asked why he was with her why he would bother to be with her when she consider herself to be good friend material. She has hide all these years the pain and the guilt and she only keep looking forward without any regrets, she never let it bother her pushing those thoughts aside. Did she knew how lucky she was to have someone like him by her side, it seems she still didn't know the answer to that question yet.

She chuckle" you seem to be very happy….happier than usual."

"There's no reason to keep me from smiling in this wonderful day. It was a rough start between Naruto and Kushina but in the end everything went well they have chosen to be a family and stick together, literally she's not happy that she had to leave him so soon."

The slug sanin nodded" I can imagine how Naruto reacted when he found out that his mother was alive after all these years he must have experience an emotional breakdown, after finding out the truth."

"He did snapped at her he was really angry that he leak some of the nine tails chakra, luckily I was quick and place one of my chakra suppress seals to change him back to normal."

Her hazel eyes softened" so he acted worst than I thought poor kid?"

"But everything is all right now Naruto changed his mind and decided to hear Kushina's whole story" Jiraiya smiled knowing she was going to get happy" you know it was Sakura the one who talked to Naruto to change his mind about Kushina?"

Tsunade blinked looking at him" really she did?"

"At first he didn't wanted to know a thing about his mother until she came and talked to him, after their conversation Naruto was the same old person he was before finding out the truth."

The blond Hokage smiled feeling proud of her student" what would you expect from my successor she's simply the best, her words must have really reached deep in Naruto's heart to change his mind."

"Who knows what were her words or maybe she gave him a blow job to change his mind" Jiraiya gave his famous perverted grin.

He backed up in fear seeing the blond Hokage giving him a pissed off look for his perverted comment" come on Tsunade I was just kidding don't take me so seriously."

She snorted" stupid pervert you ruin the moment…"

"Hey let's not get into a bad mood this is a great day Kushina's back we should be happy and celebrating" he sweat dropped trying to calm the busty woman down she was really scary when she gets angry.

The slug sanin changed her features smiling" you're right we should be celebrating for Kushina's return. This calls for a celebration Jiraiya how about we get some sake….my treat?"

"What?" he blinked in shock gazing at the woman who was smiling at him?

Tsunade just skipped his answer knowing that he wasn't going to refuse the offer and got up from her desk heading to the door" let's get going the sake isn't going to come to us."

Jiraya nodded following her out of her office the shock was still written in his face looking at his friend feeling like there was something wrong with her and he knew it very well after what she told him' what's going on…Tsunade has never treated me to sake before it has always been me?'

(Scene change)

(Location: ANBU headquarters maximum security prison cells section Konoha hidden leaf village fire country territory)

Ibiki and Itachi were walking the halls of the holding cells. This was the place with the highest security available, only the criminals who were considered dangerous along with missing nins from their own village were thrown here. The cells of high rank security reserve for dangerous criminals were forged by a special seal, it will automatically activate when the cell is touch or damage. The ANBU guards will make sure that criminal will not escape this section alive or even headquarters, security was their top priority. Itachi knew very well how things worked in this part of the building since he used to be an ANBU captain and some of his missions were to take turns in this section of the building. Since he was no longer among the high ranks of ANBU he never thought he will be walking among these halls again, the nostalgia hit him and they weren't fond memories. He remembered some of the prisoners he had brought back to their cells have just been interrogated and let's just say that their minds weren't the same anymore, they have lost their sanity. He hated to admit it but this was the perfect place to contain his brother due that he already broke out of prison because of Kabuto. The council had no choice but to put him into a high security cell and lock down strictly, this time he wasn't going to escape without losing his life in the process. He only hope his visit to Sasuke was pleasant but it was impossible it was going to turn into a disaster visit for once the older Uchiha felt like dreaming and felt like he might have a good reunion with his younger brother.

Ibiki kept his gaze on the halls but part of it was on the man walking next to him. He knew Itachi could be trusted but he wasn't acting like he has to the older Uchiha wasn't the kind of person to show emotion at all, not even the slightest ting of sadness. Yet his expression said so much he was showing all kinds of emotions he has finally took off his famous emotionless mask that he has wear since he killed everyone from the Uchiha clan, this Uchiha Itachi was more human. It made the interrogator think what could have happened to change him so much maybe Akatsuki had something to do about it, or perhaps he got tire of putting that mask. He went with him to show him to his brother's cell although he was wasting his time like the older Uchiha was well aware already. It wasn't going to be a warm happy family reunion both knew that they reached a large iron door with an ANBU guard standing in front of the door, he nodded opening the door. Both entered walking a small corridor which ahead there was another iron door with a security seal on the front, the cell was separated from the other prison cells. He adjusted his trench coat while looking at the door that leads to Sasuke's holding cell.

"Make it quick….he's not suppose to have any visitors especially you."

Itachi nodded walking to the door grabbing the iron knob.

"I should tell you" Ibiki started stopping the Uchiha from opening the door" the Hokage has probably told you already….we don't know how long we can keep him alive. The council is growing restless by the minute they are demanding for your brother's execution the Hokage is doing whatever she can to negotiate and come to a decision that he gets a fair trial. I don't support that decision Uchiha Sasuke is a dangerous traitor and he should be taken care of right now…"

Itachi stood quiet before the interrogator resumed" it gets worst with the news we got from Jiraiya that Orochimaru is alive. If that is true then you know what will happen he will come after Sasuke since he's still his candidate to become his next vessel."

"This time Kabuto won't be infiltrating this building like he did the last time, he won't be busting Sasuke out in this section of the prison…."

"True but that won't stop Orochimaru from getting his hands on your brother again you know that too. He's only interested in the sharingan and Sasuke is his perfect candidate he's not going to let him go just like that without putting up a fight."

"I know….getting Sasuke was one of his reasons to invade Konoha during the chunin exams" replied Itachi.

"The council won't risk the village getting attack again just for the sake of your brother as long as he's alive the village is in danger that it might get attack by Orochimaru. One life over a million they won't take that chance, and Sasuke is a traitor an easy sacrifice…."

Itachi gazed back at him" if Orochimaru is alive then he will still attack the village one way or the other. Even if he wants Sasuke if he gets executed Orochimaru will still attack the village, he hates Konoha and he wants revenge he won't stop until the village is burn to the ground."

The interrogator shook his head" how long will you last defending your brother you know he doesn't feel the same way about you and you still care for him?"

The older Uchiha stood quiet in deep thought before Ibiki spoke again" but it's not my place to speak about that you should get going already. With the way things are going it won't be long now….I suggest that you start biding him farewell…"

Itachi didn't say another word and he finally opened the iron door. Closing it from behind he walked towards the hall that lead to another iron door only difference, the door had a small window to look inside the cell. He gazed through the window as he spotted his younger brother inside of his prison cell looking at him gave a whole new meaning to the words high security. Sasuke was tied up with strong iron chain in his entire body he had a seal on his forehead that prevented him from using any chakra so he couldn't used any jutsu, let alone use his sharingan. His onyx eyes were covered by a thick piece of cloth to unsure that he didn't see or even his sharingan, he already had the seal but the ANBU always take a lot of precaution when handling dangerous criminals. Seeing his younger brother like this made him felt terrible remembering that everything was his fault, he was the one who did this to him. Guilt has always been the one thing he has always felt since he killed the clan he hide his suffering and brainwash Sasuke to hunt him down with the purpose to avenge everyone, his goal of revenge.

Sasuke was spending another miserable day in his dark and cold prison. He felt like he has been here for years although it's been a couple of months since he was put here because he was captured. His mind was filled with anger remembering the one who brought him here his former teammate, friend the same dead last of the class. Hatred rose from within him for the blond who was now Kitsune Flash it angers him so much that Naruto has become stronger than him, he has surpassed him. But why a loser like him has become stronger than someone from an upper clan one of the most prestigious clan in Konoha and yet he couldn't become stronger than the weak dead last, he was weaker than him. Because of the blond his lifelong goal has been postpone by the mask mercenary and now he has to stay in this rotten prison cell for who knows how long. He hasn't even thought about his team none of Suigetsu, Karin and Juggo has entered his mind because he could care less about any of them. As his anger remains thinking about Naruto his hatred for him grew stronger he was only remembering the battle at the valley of the end against the mask mercenary. The beating he took was humiliating but he couldn't shake up what he told him, Naruto's words have really affected him on that day.

"Why….why are you so strong I trained so hard to become as strong as I am today and yet I didn't stand a chance against you, you're always one step ahead of me?!"

"It's simple Sasuke your motivation to get strong is hatred and revenge if you have those as your main objective to become strong you will never become strong. As for my motivation to protect my friends and my village that motivation is all I need to train hard to become strong for them, the people that are precious to me is all that matters to me. You were one of my precious people until you broke my trust and tried to kill me."

"I have no regrets for the things I did in the past I chose to break my bonds with you and the village, I desire revenge more than anything in this world I would make the same choices all over again."

"You were wrong you never broke my bonds with me and team seven I've been thinking about you I always have. But I won't be forgiving you for what you did right now your fate will be decided by the Hokage and the council. You should know Sasuke bonds aren't meant to be broken."

He growled in anger' bonds aren't meant to be broken….damn you Naruto when I get out of here I will kill Itachi and after that I will hunt you down and kill you…'

He stopped his thinking realizing that there was someone in the cell. He didn't care sometime ANBU guards comes to release in order to eat, although the food wasn't the best in quality it tasted pretty horrible. He would prefer to be put in a regular prison cell like the last one he was in before leaving with Kabuto five years ago, that cell was paradise compare to this one and the conditions he was in. he noticed that he wasn't being free yet to receive the horrible food perhaps it wasn't one of the ANBU guards that have come to visit him, it was someone else and he had a bad feeling about it.

"Who's there….?" His tone was dry but with a hint of anger.

Itachi kept his eyes on his younger brother hating to see him in such conditions" it's me Sasuke…"

Hearing the voice of his brother the younger Uchiha's anger increase ten folds right now he hide his hatred for Naruto and focused the rest of his hatred to the one man who made his life a living hell. He started shaking with fury but the strong iron chains were preventing him from moving if he could mold chakra he would have broke free and go for the kill at the older Uchiha. He had a good idea why he was here his brother would always torture him so his hatred for him increases and fuels his lust for revenge, everything for the sake of vengeance. Just like he did back at the massacre when he used Tsukuyomi on him showing to him when he killed everyone from the clan and when he did it again when they first meet after the massacre. He loved toying with him and taunting him like he was weak and would never become stronger than him if he didn't increase his hatred for him, right now his hatred for his older brother was even stronger than ever. He growled as Itachi expected this was going to happen there was never a happy warm reunion between them.

"Itachi have you come to mock me watching me so weak and helpless in this rotten cell?!" Sasuke's voice was full of anger.

"How are you doing?" it was the only thing that came into his mind it wasn't going well.

"How am I doing quit the bullshit?!!" he spat" I want to get out of here so I can finally kill you. I will find a way to break from this prison my hatred has become so strong I can finally beat you!"

The older Uchiha stood quiet it wasn't working and he knew it wasn't going to work, nothing was going to work. So why he felt like he needed to try when it was useless to begin with his brother hates him and his desire for revenge has become so strong that he will try to kill him in a heartbeat. He watched as Sasuke was trying so hard to break himself free from the strong iron chains it was hopeless the seal that was placed on him completely shuts his chakra off along with weakening him of his physical strength. He could try but he was never going to break free talking to him was pointless he wasn't going to listen to him. The only thing that will make him happy is seeing him dead it was better to play along and follow his lead like he has done all those years.

"Foolish little brother" Itachi's voice got cold putting his emotionless mask once again" if you want to kill me then foster your hate embrace it without a doubt left in your heart, feel no regrets in killing me…"

Sasuke shouted in rage trying to break free" bastard I will kill you mark my words I despise you so much!!"

The older Uchiha wasn't going to stay a minute longer he went to the door and opened it giving one last glance at his younger brother and eventually he left.

"Itachi!!!" he shouted at the top of his lungs" Itachi!!!"

The older Uchiha heard the scream of his brother shouting his name repeatedly across the hall why does he bother trying to talk to him, why wasn't he giving up by now. Perhaps some of Naruto's personality has rubbed off on him to never give up no matter how impossible it looks but it seems he doesn't stand a chance with even a simple conversation with his younger brother, not after what he did. He wanted to look at things in a positive light but it was no use there was nothing he could do to outdone everything he did on Sasuke he couldn't reverse all the pain and hatred he inflicted on him. Giving up seemed to be the most logical thing to do as much as he didn't wanted to give up, he was once ready to die as a traitor now he has rethink his decision. Was there a way to erased all of his hatred and have his brother again, the question was impossible to answer. He left the corridor meeting up with Ibiki the interrogator had a neutral expression although it was his usual expression he obviously heard the loud screams from Sasuke.

"It didn't go that well eh?"

Itachi just passed him by" Itachi?"

He stopped not looking at the interrogator" I know about your loyalty for the village. But I also know that your loyalty for Sasuke is stronger than your loyalty for Konoha it's the reason why you spared him in the first place. I'll get to the bottom line you know very well that your brother's fate is most likely be death the Hokage won't be able to keep the council in check for too long his time is running out…"

Ibiki went in front of him" if it comes down to that will you chose the village and let your brother get executed, or are you willing to betray the village for real this time?"

His onyx eyes gazed at him reflecting determination" I love Konoha I will gladly give my life away for it, if it means I have to sacrifice my own life to protect it and keep the peace it has enjoyed all these years, then so be it. When the time comes I will be ready to face the consequences you're also forgetting that it's my fault that Sasuke became the person he is today…"

"You're right it was your fault weren't your orders kill the Uchiha clan as in every member of the clan?"

The older Uchiha lowered his gaze as Ibiki shook his head" it was your fault your love for your brother was the thing that made you take the decision of sparring his life and let him take revenge on you. None of this would have happened if you would have killed him following an order that's all I will say…"

Itachi followed him through the halls in deep thought he was really prepare to see his brother die but it didn't meant he was going to give up in trying to have him back in his life no matter how much it was killing him.

(Scene change)

(Location: cave forest region somewhere in rice country territory)

From a cavern in the nearby forest four figures emerged they have just finished taking a break from their mission and they were to resume it. One of them was a bit tall brown and dark eyes with a thick blue scarf covering his entire neck and reaching to his shoulders with a grey jacket, some bandage wrapped on his ribs long brown pants and brown sandals. The second was taller than the first with grey hair dark eyes wearing a gas mask with a long black trench coat reaching below his knees, with long brown pants and brown sandals. The third figure was a bit weird looking he had a face that looks like a woman wearing a grey rubber suit that covers his entire body, anyone could doubt that he was a man. The fourth figure was shorter than the rest with short hair yellow round glasses and wearing a black cloak with brown sandals. He was wearing wrist arm mounted rocket launcher in his right wrist.

The man with the blue scarf went ahead of the group walking towards the forest gazing at the sky everyone else was waiting as well. Suddenly a bat came flying heading towards him he smiled extending his hand offering a place so it lands safely, the bat obeyed landing on his hand as it started making usual noises a regular bat would do. The man nodded as he was listening to the night creature like he could understood what it was saying, he sighed before he turned to the rest of the group present.

"Well Rinji what did he said?" asked the short man.

Rinji shook his head releasing the bat flying into the air" still nothing from him…"

He growled" damn it I can't believe this we've been searching for that brat for almost a month and still no sign of him!"

"No one said this was going to be easy Kiho" replied the tall man with gas mask.

"Kigiri is right we would have better luck if we have the full team with us" replied the man with the grey rubber suit.

"That's impossible Gozu was killed by the three tails beast as for Guren…." Rinji paused mentioning the name of the crystal kunoichi.

"Speaking of Guren where is she?" Kigiri said.

"She's suppose to be our leader so why she isn't with us?" Kiho said.

"We don't have to concern ourselves with her let's focus more on our mission" replied Rinji.

"What's wrong Rinji? The man with the rubber suit with a hint of suspicion" you seem to be hiding something from us…"

"Nurari is right you have been acting weird since you told us that Guren wasn't coming" Kigiri said.

Kiho nodded" you told us that Orochimaru-sama gave her a special mission, yet your words seem to hold a hint of dishonesty."

"What are you planning?" asked Nurari.

"Are you planning in betraying Orochimaru-sama?" Kiho replied.

"Is it!?" Kigiri was shocked.

"I'm not planning in betraying no one but I guess it will be best if I tell you about it."

The three were still staring at Rinji not trusted him. After all they weren't real ninjas of Orochimaru they were captured by the snake and forced them to fight into a battle royale with other prisoners he captured. When they won the battle they became the special team assigned by the snake sanin to capture and seal the three tails beast, which they have failed. They weren't so loyal to him so it was anyone's guess when one of their own will turn their back on the snake sanin.

"You know what will happen if you betray Orochimaru-sama he will have you dead?" Murari said.

"I said I'm not planning in betraying him however I have some news concerning Guren. Orochimaru-sama has entrusted us to carry the task in disposing Yukimaru because he's no use to him anymore" Rinji said.

"Why is he leaving Guren out of this?" Kiho said.

"That's the problem Orochimaru-sama believes Guren is not trustworthy anymore, chances are high that she was the one who let Yukimaru escaped instead of following his orders in killing him."

"What?!" Kigiri was shocked at the news.

"Guren a traitor….that's hard to believe?" Kiho replied.

"Yes she's very loyal to Orochimaru-sama there's no way she will betray him" Murari said.

"I'm not going to question Orochimaru-sama's orders the point is he doesn't trust her so I won't trust her either and neither any of you. Guren can't be trusted she could be out there protecting Yukimaru from us we might ran into her, if that happens….we will dispose of her along with the boy…" Rinji replied.

"Kill Guren….you must be overestimating our abilities Rinji none of us can't take on her" Kigiri said.

"She's stronger than us we will die for sure" Kiho added.

"There's a reason why long ago she was chosen to be one of Orochimaru-sama's vessels for his soul transfer technique?" Murari said.

"That can be arrage" Rinji gave a grin" aren't you forgetting that we have been given Orochimaru-sama's gift?"

"Even if we use it I don't think we can still take her on" Kigiri said.

"We will worry about that when the time comes Kigiri" Kiho said.

"Stop being so negative" Murari replied.

"Let's continue with our mission I will call more of my wing friends to expand the search that brat will be found" Rinji said.

"The rest of us will split up" Kiho said.

They left leaving Rinji alone who was grinning' I can't believe they haven't suspected a thing this is too easy…Guren and Yukimaru are worthless to Orochimaru-sama they will be executed.'

(Scene change)

(Location: forest region rice country territory)

Guren gave another cry of pain she panted feeling the pain to be horrible and unbearable. She was never trained to sustain torture which it explains why she was suffering so much it wouldn't be long before she breaks. She gazed at the one responsible for the torture the mask kunoichi Temptress who seemed to be enjoying what she was doing, just by looking at the sadistic grin on her lips. The crystal kunoichi didn't know what was worst being physically torture or being torture by the mind its true Ino has been trained to use mind torture over physical, she was taught it was more effective that physical torture. As part of the Yamanaka clan Ino was taught everything about the human mind by her father how it works and its ups and downs combining it with Ibiki's mind twisting nature and Anko's sadistic personality, it equals one terrible torture specialists. The Yamanaka admitted to be having fun torturing her but she knew she had a limit to torture someone for too long remembering what Anko told her, using a high level of torture can kill the victim in no time she needed it to take it easy and be careful. She was impressed at how long the crystal user has last in interrogation session it's been over an hour, usually by now anyone of her past victims would have spill the beans by now.

In all of her years working as an interrogator in the ANBU division Ino has never meet anyone so stubborn and someone with a strong will like Guren. She has used all of her usual techniques in the process of interrogating a prisoner and so far the mind torture wasn't working. She has looked inside of her mind and has witnessed her entire life she was shocked seeing her past and her childhood, it was the usual to those who were the ninjas most of them had a past that it was too painful to see. After she was done reading her mind she used her usual torture method and so far the crystal kunoichi was holding up she seemed to have a will of iron to be able to sustain the pain from her mind torture, knowing that if she continue the treatment she will most likely die. She still hasn't gotten the information they needed one way or the other she will have to stop this, Guren was important in their mission she couldn't die. She sighed making a hand seal on the crystal user's head resuming the interrogation she finally had a fighter when it comes to torturing in gathering information.

'I wonder how long she can last I must admit I'm impress that she hasn't crack like an egg yet, most of my other victims would have gotten insane by now but she…..Guren….?'

She focused chakra on her right hand touching Guren's forehead" how about if you stop the stubborn act and tell me what I want to know?"

The crystal kunoichi felt pain running all over her brain as she screamed" ahhh…I told you to kill me already I won't say a word!"

"You're a tough one that's for sure you're the first victim that has lasted this long in one of my interrogation sessions. I should call you lucky but I can't there's no point in resisting, what will you be gaining if you don't tell me?"

"Just kill me already….either way I'm dead if you won't kill me Orochimaru-sama will. I have failed him once again I can't kill you and your leader. I also can't go through with my last mission I will never do it…"

Ino's eyes softened feeling some pity for her but she was taught to never show mercy when she was interrogating someone" just tell me Guren and I promise you I will let you go Kitsune-sama won't kill you he's not like that. How long can you withstand the pain will you give me the pleasure to hear you scream one more time?" she gave a sadistic grin.

Guren screamed feeling more pain as the Yamanaka resumed her mind torture" you're insane….freaking bitch I won't tell you nothing just finish me off I don't have the slightest interest in telling you…"

The mask kunoichi laughed in amusement" me insane nah this is little old me being my regular self. However when I'm insane let's just say that you should never see me when I act like a true psychotic bitch….keep pushing my buttons like you're doing right now and you will see the real me."

The crystal kunoichi tremble feeling the pain tears were forming she didn't how long she can last" I….."

"Tell me where is Orochimaru's hide out now?!"

"If I tell you Orochimaru-sama will find out it was me who told you he will kill me for my treachery, if he finds out that I failed in killing you four or that I failed in killing him he will kill me too. So you see whatever choice I pick will have me killed, I think it will be better if you kill me right now…"

'She really has a death wish can't blame her after seeing her past though. I guess it's time I hit her where it hurts the most and I know what to do…' the platinum blond gave a grin.

She finally stopped her torture treatment getting up' it's wise to stop if I keep hitting the nerves of her brain I will kill her…'

"It's such a shame that you don't feel like cooperating" Ino started" I guess I will have to find someone else to help me answer my question, perhaps Yukimaru can be more cooperative with me than you."

Guren's eyes widened in shock" what….how did you…?!"

"I looked inside your mind I saw how important he has become to you. Maybe he can tell me what I want to know and let's hope he'd be a good boy to cooperate before I use force, this time I won't show mercy I will be an insane bitch and make him scream so loud that his ears will bleed" she licked her lips in anticipation to have another victim to torture.

"No leave him out of this he's just a child he has nothing to do with this!" the crystal user glared.

"I know enough from looking in your mind that he was used by Orochimaru he might know where his hide out is, I can't guarantee what will happen to him if I get my hands on him" the Yamanaka was still grinning.

"Don't you dare hurt him!!" Guren shouted in anger.

"My I seem to have struck a nerve you really can be softhearted when you want to."

The crystal kunoichi shot her a killer glare" I swear if you lay one single hand on him I will kill you!"

"Don't make idle threats you're the one tied up and out of chakra. Well if you're so overprotective of Yukimaru how about if you tell me then that way I won't go after him what do you say?"

Guren stood quiet in deep thought she had nothing to lose by telling them since little by little she has been losing her trust and loyalty towards Orochimaru. The only thing that matter to her is Yukimaru's safety not even her own life matters anymore she wanted to see him safe and sound. She gazed at the mask kunoichi who was waiting for her answer maybe things weren't so bad as they seem, she wasn't going to let her get her hands on the boy. By now she no longer felt like having a death wish an opportunity has appeared before her.

'Maybe I can use them to my advantage after all…looks like I'm not ready to die yet.'

"Well Guren it's up to you if you want me to find Yukimaru and turn him into my personal torture toy, so was it going to be are you ready to tell me what I want to know?"

The crystal kunoichi gazed at her showing no signs of resisting" you want to know the location to Orochimaru-sama's hide out is that it?"

"Yes" Ino replied smiling feeling happy that she was making progress' heh looks like messing with Yukimaru has made her turn over a new leaf.'

She nodded" the hidden sound village is located in the lower south region of rice country through the snake forest. However the place itself is deserted due that Orochimaru-sama has lost a lot of man power over the years, during his invasion on Konoha five years ago along with losing his best bodyguards the sound five. He has grown restless finding potential fighters to join his army with the people he has captured from different villages becoming his test subjects in the process I guess the only good thing about this is that four eye freak Kabuto has mysteriously disappeared a long time ago, I haven't seen him in years and frankly I don't care I never like him. And also Orochimaru-sama doesn't seem to care that he's gone either…"

The Yamanaka knelt in front of her smiling" there good girl see that wasn't so bad."

"Since I told you the information you wanted to hear I need you to do me a favor…"

Ino raised an eyebrow at her comment" a favor…..what kind of favor?"

"Temptress the screaming stopped are you done?!" the voice of Naruto was heard as he landed next to her along with the rest of the team.

"Yeah I'm done!" she smiled at him.

Guren gazed at everyone her dark eyes fell on Ino" remember you said you will help me in order to give you the information you needed."

Ino stood quiet remembering what she told him she wasn't doing this for herself she wanted to do it for Yukimaru. She has seen in her mind how much the boy has become someone important to her like he was her little brother, it made her wonder how can she be a servant to Orochimaru seeing that she's willing to die in order to protect him. She smiled mentally they weren't going to let Yukimaru get hurt or lost team Kitsune Flash always help people even if it's not their mission.

"Help her?" Naruto said confused.

"What is she talking about Temptress?" asked Sakura.

The Yamanaka scratched the back of her head" well the good news is I got the information you requested but I kind of promise her to help her look for someone in exchange for her telling me Orochimaru's location."

The team sweat dropped at her comment.

"Temptress…weren't you torturing her to get the information?" Hinata said.

"Yeah if you were torturing her to get the information why would you promised her to help her?" Naruto replied with a sweat dropped.

The platinum blond sighed for being so softhearted" look guys I really want to help Guren, I went into her mind and I saw how much this kid means a lot to her she's not as evil as she looks."

"Looks can be deceiving Temptress" replied the blond jinchurikki.

"I know but I saw everything and the reason why she was after us, she's desperate she really wants to protect this boy from harm not caring if she may end up getting killed in the process."

"She told you the location to the hidden sound village?" Sakura said.

"Yeah it took me a while to get the information from her she withstood the torture longer than any of my past victims before. But she finally agreed to tell me Orochimaru's location if it means that we'll help her look for her friend Yukimaru."

"Temptress we don't have time to look around for someone when we have an important mission in our hands" Naruto said in a scolding tone but sighed seeing that she lowered her head feeling hurt" I know you're heart is in the right place if what you're telling me is true then I would love to help her…"

"You once told us that team Kitsune Flash always does the right thing, helping Guren find Yukimaru is the right thing. He's precious to her and believe it or not she doesn't care betraying Orochimaru if it means that she can protect him!"

"I agree with Temptress Kitsune-kun" Hinata replied" if this Yukimaru is someone important to her then we it's our responsibility to find him."

"But guys the mission…." Naruto started.

Sakura sighed smiling" I will also have to agree with the rest of team, team Kitsune Flash always help those in need it's not always about the money."

"Hey I'm supposed to be the leader of this team I'm the one who gets the last word to decided what to do and we have a mission to fulfill" the mask mercenary gave a slight pout.

"So you really want to abandon a boy who needs our help?" asked Ino.

The blond jinchurikki was about to say something but he remained quiet in deep thought. What kind of person would he be if he doesn't help an innocent, and a kid none the less. He looked at his team they were smirking already knowing what was going to be his decision he sighed in defeat there was nothing he could do even as the leader of the team, he couldn't disagree with them.

"Congratulations team you just activated my guilty conscious, fine we'll help Guren find her friend if he's that important to her he seems to be in danger…"

The kunoichis giggle giving the victory sign while Guren was still staring at them weirdly. She has heard so many rumors of team Kitsune Flash that they were an inhuman team that attack like demonic savages and they didn't show any mercy to their enemies. They were cold and cruel with no heart any person that got in their way we're taken to their leader and Kitsune Flash will devoured their souls. But she wasn't so foolish to believe all those exaggerated rumors, people can be quite stupid and crazy when it comes to telling gossip. But she was interested if she ever gets the chance to meet them in person and so far they were nothing like she expected, they were strong but they were also kindhearted when it comes to helping others. Like any regular ninja they must have taken lives but they didn't look like the kind of people who will enjoy killing, or had a major lust for blood. They only looked intimidating because of their masks but without them they were very human nothing like heartless demons she has heard, hell Orochimaru was more heartless than they were. She could also noticed that they seemed to be very close friends meaning that they could have the perfect teamwork making them an unstoppable force, their friendship was probably the secret of their great strength.

'Is this really team Kitsune Flash?' her dark eyes were fixed on the four mask ninjas.

"All right Guren we will help you find your friend in exchange for telling us Orochimaru's hide out, like the old saying goes you scratch my back and I'll scratch yours" Naruto said" but first I want to know everything…"

"Everything?" she replied looking at him.

"Tell us about the three tails and your reason for turning your back on Orochimaru, you're obviously the loyal obedient type so it makes me question your motives. Call it a chance for us to start gaining some trust in you."

"I don't care if you trust me or not" she said with a frown" very well then I shall tell you so we can continue wasting more time on Yukimaru's search."

"We won't be wasting time you will provide us with some important information" the mask mercenary smirked while the kunoichis nodded.

The crystal kunoichi nodded" it's true that I am very loyal to Orochimaru-sama….well was I have a good reason for obeying him I owe him a lot. Years ago when I was little my village was attacked no one was sparred I left the village when the attacked started so I never saw who were the attackers. Orochimaru-sama saved me and gave me a home he was the one who gave me a purpose in life I wasn't quite happy living in my village I never knew who we're my parents so I was an orphan."

"Not everyone in my village had the same abilities so the rest of the villagers let's just say that we didn't got treated kindly. There were people who were close to me but they were killed when the village was attacked, I was the only one who survived and I was taken under Orochimaru-sama's wing. I was happy I had someone who acknowledged my existence…"

The team stood quiet listening to her story they already where this was going. Naruto was more familiar than the rest of the team one again the theme of acknowledgement was brought back to the table. He has heard it so many times before with other people who became his friends from Haku, Gaara, Kimimaro and Ranmaru. They will always be people who will believe that their lives have no meaning just because they're all alone with no family and shunned by the people around him for being different, once again he meets another person who was looking for acknowledgement to have a meaning in her life. He understood Guren's pain more than anyone which now he knew that she wasn't an evil person looking for her purpose in life, he hated the fact that Orochimaru took advantage of that and used her for his own selfish ambitions.

'I see she has been misguided by the wrong person too' his cerulean eyes softened.

The crystal user smiled" I have come to gain a lot of trust and respect for Orochimaru-sama that's why I became so loyal to him, I was always happy whenever he had use of me and my abilities. I felt like I needed to please him and make him proud of me no matter what my loyalty for him was that high. I was so happy when he named me the candidate to become his next vessel since Kaguya Kimimaro failed in being his vessel due to his deadly disease that lead to his death."

"What?!" Sakura said shocked.

"You were actually happy about that?!" Ino replied shocked as well.

"But Guren you do know what will happen if Orochimaru uses his soul transfer technique on you?" Hinata said worried.

"I'm well aware of the consequences and I didn't care…"

"So you don't care if you die when Orochimaru takes over your body that's some loyalty you have for him?" Naruto shook his head.

"I used to believe that my whole purpose was to serve Orochimaru-sama even if I had to become his next vessel so he can continue living. However that's not how things went I also failed to be his vessel because he already used his soul transfer technique on someone else due that he was running out of time to change bodies. The worst part I never became his next candidate after that Orohimaru-sama has already chosen his next vessel…..Uchiha Sasuke."

Hearing the name of the Uchiha avenger the team got a little uncomfortable namely Naruto and Sakura. Hearing their former teammate was bad for them reminding them what he did leaving the village, betraying his friends to get power and almost killing his former best friend in the process. Naruto has come to terms with it long ago his bond with Sasuke still remained but he was ignoring it completely remembering how much he changed before leaving Konoha. Sakura was in deep thought it reminded her how she acted in front of the Uchiha how immature and foolish mistreating her other friend Naruto and after what happened back at the hospital, how her life changed for the worst to the better. Both teens have admitted that their friend and former member of team seven was gone he has changed and the possibility that he won't come back to how he used to be, were very high.

Guren resumed her story" with the Uchiha as his main candidate I felt like I had no more use for him I was useless to Orochimaru-sama. I decided to be isolated from everything and everyone until I was needed once again if that time actually comes I felt like my whole world fell apart just because I didn't have a purpose anymore, I was worthless in those years I lived all alone…."

The team stood quiet listening to her story and they felt pity for the crystal kunoichi. Believing like she didn't have a purpose that her entire life goal was to be by the snake sanin's place it was unfair they know how evil Orochimaru really is. He was just using her like a tool that will serve his ambitions he has always manipulated the lives of the people that fought by his side, once he didn't had any use for them he will cast them aside meaning their purpose has ended. It was pretty clear that their lives didn't mean a thing to the snake sanin as long as they do something that will benefit him he has never respected human life. Guren's thinking was just wrong but it was expected when she considered him someone precious the only person who was there for her and gave her a reason to live, her purpose to exist.

"You didn't care that Orochimaru used you?" Hinata replied softly.

"Not at all every time he needed me I truly felt alive in a long time, nothing else matters…"

"He's just using you Guren Orochimaru doesn't care for no one but himself. Once he no longer has any use for his men he sacrifice them or threw them away like they were garbage, and he feels the same way about you" Naruto said.

The crystal user slowly nodded" I have come to realize that even if it took me a while to figure it out. But still I was loyal to him not caring if he will throw me away for not seeing me useful anymore."

"You really had it rough Guren" Sakura said.

"No she had it worst" Ino replied understanding her because she has looked inside her mind.

"Well this has been quite a story Guren but that doesn't explain you're sudden changing sides against Orochimaru" the blond jinchurikki said.

"It has to do with Yukimaru doesn't it?" asked Hinata.

The crystal kunoichi chuckle" your friend here is very sharp yes you could say that Yukimaru was part for helping me see my wrong ways. Two months ago Orochimaru-sama called upon me he had a job for me, I was so happy that he finally had some use for me but it wasn't just a regular mission. It was very dangerous Orochimaru-sama received reports that the three tails beast was spotted in a lake in water country…."

The mask mercenary nodded" I see so you were part of the team that Orochimaru sent to capture the three tails, too bad it didn't went like you hope for."

"Yes I was sent along with five other men who used to be Orochimaru-sama's prisoners they became candidates because they won the battle royal that he always held to have the prisoners to fight among each other to find out which one is strongest. So it was the six of us in a attempt to capture the tail beast but we weren't the only ones, Yukimaru also came along too" her dark eyes softened.

"What?" Hinata said.

"Why would Yukimaru come too isn't he just a kid?" asked Sakura.

"Is he part of Orochimaru's men?" Naruto said.

Guren glared at him after hearing the question" don't you dare compare Yukimaru to those miserable low lives, they're just scum!"

"Okay my bad for asking" the blond jinchurikki replied' note to self never disrespect the kid.'

"But why would Yukimaru go with you?" Hinata said.

"Unless Orochimaru sent him for a reason maybe he had some use for him after all" Sakura replied.

Ino stood quiet she didn't wanted to say a word because she already knew after looking in Guren's mind. It was better if the crystal kunoichi tells them herself since she respected other people's private thoughts and their lives. She was taught by her father to always keep quiet about the things she has seen after entering their mind, unless it was important or necessary when the time comes.

"It is as you say Orochimaru-sama had some use for Yukimaru he was just a normal boy who somehow ended up falling into his evil grasp" Guren's eyes softened remembering a terrible memory" but there was a reason why Orochimaru-sama chose a boy like Yukimaru to be part of the team to capture the three tails, he wasn't so normal than I thought."

"What do you mean?" the tall blond was now interested at the story than before.

"Yukimaru has a couple of abilities that will make him quite unique one of them was the reason why Orochimaru-sama considered him to be essential in capturing the three tails. He has the ability to control it…"

The three kunoichi gasped while Naruto's eyes were wide from the shock.

"What?!" he went to her like he has heard a very dark secret" what do you mean control it are you saying he can actually control a Bijuu?!"

"Yes he has the ability to control his chakra has that ability to tame the tail beast, only the three tails that is. Orochimaru-sama was so interested in him with Yukimaru by his side he will have complete control over the three tails beast he was just an innocent boy he didn't know what he was doing. He took advantage of Yukimaru's innocence and used him as the tool to manipulate the three tails."

"I…I don't believe this…" Hinata replied in shock.

"You better believe it" Ino said.

"What a horrible thing to use a mere boy as his personal tool just to gain more power" Sakura said although she wasn't surprise knowing how evil the snake sanin is.

"How old is Yukimaru?" Naruto asked.

"Twelve…" the crystal kunoichi replied.

The blond jinchurikki was in deep thought' that young…impossible I was told by pervy sage that years ago there were only a few people who had the ability to control the Bijuus the first Hokage was among those few, but they're all dead now….well not all of them…'

"How is it possible for someone to control a Bijuu let alone a kid?!" Sakura said.

"As I said before Yukimaru's chakra has that ability the more chakra he releases the more he has control over the tailed beast, he releases the chakra base on his state or his emotions."

'Emotions….that means he release large amount of chakra if he's angry or sad. It's the same thing with me when it comes to the fox' thought the mask mercenary.

"But that could be dangerous releasing too much chakra leads to exhaustion and it can cause death" Hinata replied.

"I know that's why it was dangerous for him to use that ability more than once, it was worst when Orochimaru-sama gave him those pills…"

The pink haired medic reacted" pills….what kind of pills are you talking about?!"

Guren shook her head" I don't know much about it Orochimaru-sama kept the pills in a jar but I never saw a label on them so I couldn't tell what they were. He gave Yukimaru a lot of those pills before we left to go after the three tails, they were probably used so that he's able to control the Bijuu even more."

"That could be it" replied Sakura" the pills he gave him must be chakra stimulators."

"Chakra stimulators?" asked Ino.

"Pills that can make someone release more amount of chakra than usual" replied the pink haired kunoichi.

"Like soldier pills?" Naruto said.

"Not quite soldier pills can increase someone's chakra and his attributes like strength and heightened their senses but chakra stimulators it doesn't increase amount of chakra, but rather it makes the user release more amount of his chakra when performing a jutsu. The pills are very dangerous and they have a high risk of life threatening."

"I know about the solider pills when Kiba-kun takes one his sense of smell as well as his techniques become stronger. These chakra stimulators are definitely not very recommendable" Hinata said.

"They're not they are more recommended when the user wants to perform the justu by giving the exact amount of chakra, it can help to give him that boost. The pills are more designed for people who can't control their chakra flow, Guren you said that Orochimaru gave Yukimaru a lot of the pills?" Sakura said.

"Yes…." The crystal kunoichi lowered her gaze.

"Taking one chakra stimulation pill is dangerous taking more than one is pure insanity the person will be feeling all kinds of symptoms like headaches, high fever, the person can also get nauseous….it can even cause death!" Sakura's jade eyes hardened thinking about the snake sanin' that snake bastard…'

"Yukimaru is only twelve how much will the pills affect him?" replied Naruto.

"I will say a lot for someone young like Yukimaru he will be experiencing the symptoms I mentioned more frequently usual than an adult….worst case scenario Yukimaru might even die…."

Guren gasped glaring at Sakura" shut up that's not true nothing will happen to him, don't you dare say another thing like that!!"

"Guren…." Ino said gazing at the woman with some pity.

She lowered her gaze again" I should it known….when Yukimaru was traveling with me and the group to go after the three tails he started showing those symptoms. He got sick having high fevers and he ended up collapsing, we have to stop a couple of times and hoped that he gets better. I….at first when I met him I thought he was an annoyance and a nuisance but I was wrong, little by little I started feeling like I was responsible for him soon he became close to me I wonder if this is how it feels to have a little brother?"

The team was now feeling sorrier for the crystal kunoichi. Naruto has really reacted to her question remembering that he used to have a brother before he betrayed him and the village for revenge. No matter how much he wanted to bring the old days back he knew it wasn't going to come back, his brother was probably lost forever sooner or later he will have to face reality. They could tell that Guren wasn't evil she was just being used by Orochimaru like the rest of the people he has manipulated in the past. Naruto was starting to have doubts if the snake sanin was really dead but he still highly believe that he couldn't be alive.

Ino was still quiet about Guren after looking into her mind she knew everything, the crystal user was hiding something from the group. She understood what she was going through and the reason why she has become so loyal and caring for Yukimaru it was wise that she didn't mention it, after all to this very day she was still suffering from that terrible memory. It wasn't her place to speak about it since she knew the crystal kunoichi can be trusted, it was up to her to tell them.

"When we faced the three tails we never stood a chance even with Yukimaru he used a lot of his chakra he was able to control it but he couldn't withstand the power of the Bijuu he eventually collapsed from exhaustion, the pills also did their work too. None of us couldn't take on the three tails we were outmatch by its inhuman power, I hated it to think but we had no choice but to retreat we ended losing one member of the group" Guren said her eyes softened remembering how Gozu died' why did you saved me it would have been a lot better if I die back then?'

"We already know you failed in capturong the three tails it was really captured by Akatsuki" Naruto said.

"Orochimaru-sama wasn't happy when he found out about our failure. I decided to take care of Yukimaru until he recovered and that's when things went from bad to worse…."

"What do you mean?" asked Hinata.

Sakura's eyes widened" don't tell me did Yukimaru's condition worsened?!"

"No he was lucky that he got better because he stopped taking those pills. Since the mission was a failure and the three tails was already captured by the organization Akatsuki Orochimaru-sama believed that Yukimaru was no longer useful and that his purpose was over, so he order me….to kill him" Guren's expression was a mix of sorrow and guilt.

"You couldn't kill him didn't you?" Naruto replied.

The crystal kunoichi shook her head" there was no way I could go through with it Yukimaru meant more to me than my own loyalty for Orochimaru-sama and from that moment I was able to see for what he really was, he was evil. The only thing I could do was to help him escape the hide out unharmed I pretended that he escaped from me and got away, I had to make it look very believable so that Orochimaru-sama didn't get suspicious….it worked but he ordered me to find him and kill him, I won't do it."

"I understand you wanting to protect Yukimaru but why were you trying to kill us?" asked Hinata.

The crystal user sighed" I thought killing you will make Orochimaru-sama forget about me killing Yukimaru. I think it's more important the lives of the famous team Kitsune Flash than just a boy at least to Orochimaru-sama I know it was a foolish idea I was just desperate to find a way to save him from getting killed…"

"You're doing all of this just for his safety?" the blond jinchurikki said.

They stood quiet watching over the crystal kunoichi they have heard enough about her cause and her intentions. They have made their decision already to help her due that she could be trusted, Ino however wasn't feeling comfortable but she shrugged it off. She wasn't going to let it bother if Guren wasn't going to bring it up all along.

"Guren I understand your actions if you only want to protect Yukimaru, you were only doing the wrong things for the right reasons. So we don't blame you for trying to kill us I guess from your point of view it does sound like an appropriate plan" the mask mercenary added.

Sakura went next to him whispering to her leader" what are we going to do Kitsune-sama?"

"I knew this mission was going to take longer than usual to fulfill but we're going to help her find Yukimaru, it's what you guys convinced me to do right?"

The kunoichis giggled lightly as the blond jinchurikki untied the chakra rope freeing the crystal kunoichi.

"Is it safe to untie her?" Sakura said.

"It's all right Huntress she's not the enemy I looked into her mind and Yukimaru is the only person she cares about" Ino said.

"I don't care if Orochimaru-sama kills me for my treachery as long as Yukimaru is safe….that's all that matters to me. We should get going I'm certain he sent the group that accompanied me to capture the three tails to find him."

"Are they strong?" asked Hinata.

"Not at all they're just prisoners they have a few good abilities but they aren't higher rank ninjas we can take them on with no problem at all, however they do know they aren't the strongest bunch so they learned how to work together. Like any ninja they know the power of teamwork" replied Guren.

"Let's hope they haven't found Yukimaru yet" Sakura said.

"Well at least we won't get bore finding Yukimaru if we ran to those guys, we might have a good fight in our hands" the Yamanaka smirked.

"Do you have any clue where could Yukimaru be?" Naruto said.

"I don't after he left the hidden sound village I have no idea of his whereabouts. My guess is that he could be hiding Yukimaru has another ability to create a thick mist allowing him to escape undetected. It's a very good ability to use against any opponent. Also before he left I gave him some food but that was a month ago, he must be so hungry by now…." Her dark eyes softened thinking about the young boy.

'I don't think he knows any good survival skills so we'll have to hurry time is definitely not on our side we can't have him starving to death' thought the tall blond.

"One more thing Guren before we head out to find Yukimaru, it's about Orochimaru?" the blond jinchurikki said.

"What about him?"

"Does he….I mean have you actually looked at him you know face to face?"

The crystal user was in deep thought" now that you mentioned it for a long time I haven't seen his face. Orochimaru-sama has been wearing this long black cloak that covers his face entirely, I never asked myself why would he wear that but it does seem suspicious when you think about it."

The kunoichis looked at their leader thinking the exact thing another clue has been add to the mystery.

'Just as I thought it's obviously some kind of impostor posing as Orochimaru, I knew it that snake is really dead all along.'

"Guren have you seen him using any jutsu?" Sakura said wanting to know more about the faker.

"I have seen him using his snake summons" replied the crystal kunoichi.

"I see…" the pink haired medic looked at her leader' there's a high chance that it's not an impostor after all…'

Naruto didn't want to think about the situation for too long and chose to focus on the task at hand" all right team we have another tough mission on our hands besides our original mission. We have to search the entire rice country to find Yukimaru and let's not forget that we aren't the only ones on the search so this is what we're going to do?!"

The kunoichis got closer ready to receive orders from the blond jinchurikki.

"Just tell us what to do?" Ino said.

"We're ready at any time" Hinata replied.

"First of all Guren give us a quick description of Yukimaru how he looks like?" the whisker blond said.

The blue haired crystal user nodded" he's short around 5'2 he has long hazel hair reaching to his back, purple eyes. He also likes flowers the carnelian to be exact he's not so talkative either."

The mask mercenary nodded" that will be enough information on his description, now team the best strategy in a search mission is to split up in small groups to make the search more effective. We'll separate going to different locations around the country I will provide assistance by sending a shadow clone to accompany you guys on the search. Huntress you head north, Temptress you head east, Mistress will head out west and Guren and I will head south."

"Got it!" Sakura said.

"Mistress you have the advantage in this search mission with your byakugan. Also I gave you guys a radio you all know the limit range of the transmission so try not get too far. One more thing if any of you arrived to a town or a village, I suggest that you change your uniform we don't want to attract any unnecessary attention."

"Roger we have the radio equipped!" Ino replied showing on her neck the small radio.

Naruto made a cross shape hand seal" shadow clone jutsu!"

POOF!!!

Three shadow clones appeared each in the three mask kunoichi's side.

"Remember to search any secluded areas like caves or gorges, let's go!"

"Right!"

(Scene change)

(Location: local tavern market district Konoha hidden leaf village fire country territory)

Tsunade happily took another glass of sake feeling very satisfied with the taste she poured more of the drink to her drinking partner. Jiraiya kindly accepted the drink taking a sip sake always make things better this is exactly what he needed, or what both needed. It was a small celebration for having Kushina back in the village to Tsunade were both, celebrating the red head's return and taking a break from her job filling the paperwork was a living hell. Usually she will leave this for the evening but she just couldn't wait sake was her daily drug after gambling, although she hasn't gamble ever since she became Hokage which it pissed her off a lot. To her this was the best way to relax and enjoy the life to have a nice drink of sake with her long time friend, it made her day better as they started talking about the good old days. Both sanins were remembering back when they were genins and talked some of their missions when they were part of Sarutobi's team those times were full of happy memories, but they made sure they didn't brought any memories that were painful or regrettable. They also dispelled the fact that they were drinking in the same bar where Jiraiya snapped at Tsunade and created a lot of pain for both of them in their relationship, jeopardizing their friendship. But it was all right all was forgiven back then so they stopped thinking about it they were still good friends after all these years.

Jiraiya however was feeling a little uncomfortable right now he was happy drinking sake with his long time friend has always been one of his favorite hobbies. But something was wrong and he could feel it noticing around him as he looked at the blond woman happily drinking her sake, something was not right with her. He watched her as she took another sip before looking at him, she gave him such a warm happy smile that it didn't reflected on her personality at all. In his eyes she wasn't acting so Tsunade like it's like she was a complete different person he didn't had a clue why she was acting like this it wasn't right, and it was scaring him. Sure he was having a good time with the slug sanin more than usual but the way she was looking at him it's what scares him the most. A man with Jiraiya's experience will immediately know in a heartbeat when a woman was trying to make a move on a man and he was insane to believe that the blond Hokage was trying to make a move on him. The joke made him laughed mentally there's no chance in heal that will ever happened, only in his dreams that is. This was Tsunade she would never even think of hitting on him in a romantic way she will hit him in an abusive way but nothing like that. He finally calm down thinking too much will give him stress he focused on relaxing drinking the sake with his friend. He knew Tsunade better than anyone and she would never joke with him with something like giving him hints that she's on to him.

'Yeah right….keep thinking like that Jiraiya you need some research to make you forget that crazy hallucination…' he took another sip from his glass.

Tsunade laughed resuming her tale about the old days" I swear that was so funny that cat really made a work of you!"

The toad sanin followed her laughing" I hated that mission so much stupid cat was a pain in the ass, he used me like I was a freaking scratching post I bet that cat must have been a relative of Tora."

"Or perhaps Tora followed Toshu's footsteps I really laughed so hard on that day I was in tears."

"Sarutobi sensei laughed but he gave the stupid excuse that he remembered a joke that the first told him I didn't believed him one bit. And then there was Orochimaru being his usual serious self he didn't laughed, he didn't reacted at all he was just being emo."

"That was one of my happiest moments your face was just priceless. The mission should have been a C rank mission with how dangerous Toshu was."

He grinned" you remember when we went to that tunnel in snow country?"

The slug sanin gave another laughed" we got separated from Orochimaru and Sarutobi sensei and when we were a little lost thanks to you. We ended up walking into that dark tunnel getting even more lost than before…"

Jiraiya laughed" you remember that time too?"

She took another sip of her glass with a smile" how could I forget you were such an idiot that you got the guts to try and kiss me thinking I wouldn't notice in the dark?"

"Hey the dark is the best way for a man to make a move on a woman" the toad sanin defended.

"That doesn't apply to me I didn't punched you that time because instead of kissing me you ended up kissing a toad" she laughed until she was in tears.

"That must have been like a prediction that I will sign the toad contract."

Tsunade finished her glass and poured more sake she followed by pouring more on her friend's glass because he finished drinking" Jiraiya….do you remember when you gave me that love letter?"

The white haired man blinked" love letter….oh that day I can't believe you remember that."

"It was very corny what you wrote but it was nice….any girl would have squeal like a fan girl I still don't understand why you wrote Orochimaru's name on it?"

"Because you liked him back then you were always looking at him daydreaming about him, you even asked him out once."

She snorted" it was just some stupid crush just admiration I had for him nothing more. I can't believe you couldn't tell Jiraiya you must be losing your touch in understanding the heart of a woman…"

"Well my bad back then I wasn't that good in any of that stuff just my research" he grinned taking out one of his copies of his novel.

The busty Hokage took a sip of her glass" still the same old stupid pervert."

"Correction still the same old stupid super pervert."

They both shared another laugh resuming their drinking. For a moment they stood quiet just listening to the other people in the bar talking and ranting while other villagers were already drunk from drinking too much sake. Jiraiya was in deep thought thinking about Tsunade's current behavior it was scaring him more by the minute he was suspicious of her all because they rarely talked about the past. Both of them knew that it was a topic that neither of them liked to talk about in the first place due that it was filled with pain and suffering, it wasn't wise to bring it up when none of them didn't wanted to. Yet here they were talking about it and Tsunade wasn't bothered at all she was just plain happy it was worrying him a little, something must have happened to her to make her act like this at least that's what he thought. The he noticed that she was smiling at him it wasn't a regular smile but a smile that reflects a lot of affection, maybe he was going insane or perhaps he was dreaming. It felt impossible but he had to think the worst and the best for him the chances were high that Tsunade could actually be hitting on him. She was never the kind of person to play with someone's feelings he knew her that well but why was she acting like this, he was asking the same question on his head over and over again. He kept his gaze on her before she took another sip from her glass he knew he wasn't drunk he has only had two glasses of sake or perhaps the world was coming to an end.

'Dear Kami I must be losing my mind maybe the sake is getting the better of me.'

"Something wrong?" Tsunade looked at him after drinking her glass noticing the way he was looking at her.

"It's nothing I never realized you will smile at me like that…"

The busty Hokage rose an eyebrow" what I can't smile at my long time friend and teammate?"

"It's not like that I don't mind at all you seem to be acting very happy" again Jiraiya wasn't being very specific because he was afraid to say what he really thinks.

She frowned" I can't be happy because I'm drinking sake with my friend finally taking a damn break from filling that hellish paperwork?!"

"Not that's not what I mean either…."

"What do you mean you're acting like you're so full of stress your research must have finally fried your brain, maybe you have more stress than me?!"

Jiraiya sighed seeing her expression' I should save it for now I don't want to make her mad after she's in a good mood I will follow her lead for now but this isn't like her ...'

He smiled drinking his glass" sorry about acting like that Tsunade you're right let's just enjoy this wonderful day of course I shouldn't be questioning if you're happy."

She nodded finishing drinking her glass" that's more like it it's good to take a break every once in a while being the Hokage gets tiring and the job is a pain in the ass."

"Then let's not stop enjoying this moment my dear."

"How about if we have a game of cards it's been a while since we have last played?"

"Sounds good to me…"

The toad sanin smirked seeing the blond woman taking the pack of cards from her large cleavage she started shuffling them" so what will it be?"

"How about go fish?" he smirked.

The busty Hokage laughed" go fish you're in the mood to play childish games I was hoping for something more challenging and entertainment."

"Go fish is entertaining and poker is out of the question."

"You can be such a party bopper sometimes then again poker wouldn't be fun if there isn't anything to bet on, except for my title of Hokage" she replied giving a devilish grin.

"Forget it Tsunade were not going to gamble for your Hokage title."

"But I'm the legendary sucker you have nothing to lose?" she was smirking.

Jiraiya couldn't help but smirked" you're really digging your own grave."

"Let's make the challenge then?" she gave him a playful smile" if I win you will become the new Hokage and I will retire what do you say?"

"Fine but if I win you will stay ruling as the Hokage until you reach ninety" he was grinning in amusement' I have this game won already.'

The busty Hokage left eye twitched in annoyance' there's no chance I will be ruling that long as Hokage I would have already chosen the next candidate by then.'

"Fine you're on!"

"Let's start this game shall we?"

Tsunade poured more sake on her glass before she realized that the bottle was empty, she growled" more sake!"

(Scene change)

(Location: Uchiha clan district west section Konoha hidden leaf village fire country territory)

Itachi was seated in one of the staircases in front of the building of the former Uchiha clan police force. The entire clan district brought him good and bad memories remembering the reason why the members of the Uchiha were given the position to form the police task division. The only thing that ad him in deep thought was his younger brother it was always Sasuke even after everything he's been through for following orders, his brother was still his top priority. Remembering what happened back at the ANBU prison he has failed to have a decent conversation with the younger Uchiha just like he expected, giving up was the most logical thing to do. But he didn't wanted to give up he still keep faith that someday he might have his little brother back from the tormented path of revenge he gave him. His new found determination was probably brought up thanks to Naruto who has influenced him to never give up and keep looking forward, no matter how impossible it may look. Sasuke's hatred for him was so strong and powerful was there a way to erased all that hatred that he didn't know but he was shown that people's fate can be changed. His fate was supposed to die as a traitor taking orders for the sake of his village and yet he was still alive and back in his home village, his fate was changed the same thing could happen to his brother. He noticed the presence of someone near him he already knew who was the person that has come to visit him, although he found it unusual he didn't expecting her to see him.

"You're here in this lonely part of the village…"

Itachi saw Anko next to him it seemed he was being watched by her for a while. The snake mistress got seated in the staircase moving a little closer that would make any man sweat for having such a sexy woman so close. The older Uchiha wasn't intimidated by her seductive act it wasn't having any effect on him just by looking at her face he knew her reason for visiting him. Anko smiled at him she has been searching for a strong man who could tamed her and show her a good time not like the bunch of losers she has seen, a real man that's what she wanted. She was twenty nine and she was still single although she lost her virginity years ago she wondered many times if she will ever find her worthy man, she believed she has found him. Not that she was desperate to find a boyfriend these things take time but she was interested in having an Uchiha, it was no coincidence now that Itachi was here. Perhaps she can finally have some romance in her life true love maybe although she never lifted her hopes up this could be the beginning. But then again she was only looking for a potential candidate to have a good fuck and it seems she has finally hit the jackpot. She followed her instincts and the experience she has gained giving the older Uchiha a sweet look that reflected her seductive personality, she had this in the bag for sure.

"Why are you all alone here?"

"These are the clan's grounds" Itachi replied coolly.

"You want to be all alone I understand you. It wasn't long when you returned to the village everyone else is not used to seeing your face after what they heard about you" for a moment she dropped her mask showing some concern for him" I'm sorry for your loss…the things we do in this life to protect this village right?"

"It's the ninja way…blood and death will always follow our path."

"Let's not think about it you have to forget about the past too nothing comes from it, it only leads to more pain" she smiled at him going back to her cherry self" you need to relax buddy how about I treat you to some dango and green tea?"

"Thank you for the offer….but I must politely decline" Itachi got up ready to leave.

'Playing hard to get eh…' Anko grinned" it's all right Itachi I'm not going to bite we're both alike the villagers are afraid of us and most of them hate me, but I don't give a rat's ass."

"I find it meaningless that the villagers hate you for being Orochimaru's student, it's better to hate a traitor."

"You can't be a traitor if you were just following orders in the first place" she smirked.

"Someone already told me that. I appreciate that you care Anko-san…"

She grabbed his hand getting his attention giving him a seductive look" what's the hurry don't be such a party bopper it's not like you have a girlfriend waiting for you at home?"

Itachi wasn't surprised that her intentions were to ask him out and probably have her way with him hi best strategy was to avoid her. Although he did felt some sympathy for the snake mistress with the way some of the villagers have treated her in the past, he had too much to think about then just going out on a date with a woman he wasn't well familiar with. He wasn't the kind of person that had woman on the head or sleeping with them he was always serious and respected when it came to having a relationship with a woman, just like his past girlfriend. He was going to leave but he was forgetting that Anko was very stubborn and she didn't like taking no for an answer one way or the other she was going to have him like he was her property.

"I have to get going."

"Just one little date that's all I'm asking for" she replied deciding to use force she went down allowing the Uchiha to get a good look at her breast from her fish net outfit.

She grinned devilish' he won't be able to resist that any man will have tons of nose bleeds looking at my beauties.'

"I will decline your offer Anko-san…"

"Don't be such a sour puss and spend some time with me, you better not be gay" she will be so disappointed to find out that a hunk like Itachi was a butt pirate.

The Uchiha sweat dropped at her comment he didn't know if there was a way to leave without using some force to convince her that he's not interested in being with her. But it seem a miracle has been made as he sense the presence of someone else near his location hoping that its someone who can get the snake mistress off his back. He felt so relief when he saw Kushina heading his way the red haired woman was wearing some civilians clothing proving that she wasn't a ninja. Just a regular red dress going below her knees with some short black high heels, she couldn't helped but smirk at the situation the older Uchiha was in. It was amusing to see him in that kind of predicament but he was her friend and she never abandons a friend in need, she was able to tell just by looking into his face. She turned her gaze to Anko who hasn't noticed her yet she had to sweat dropped at her choice of clothing it wasn't very high in a ninja's pride and moral, she seemed to have a fetish for fish nets.

'I have to feel sorry for Itachi the poor guy' she smiled before arriving next to the group.

"Who the hell might you be?" Anko asked rudely finally noticing the red head.

Kushina ignored her smiling at the Uchiha" oh there you are sweet heart I've been looking everywhere for you."

"Sweet heart…?" Anko raised an eyebrow staring at the red haired kunoichi with a lot suspicion.

Itachi reacted becoming confuse when he noticed Kushina's expression. She was giving him the follow my lead look and he decided to follow it it seems she has come up with a way to save him from the snake mistress. Anko by now was staring at both of them with baffle look just noticing the way the red haired woman was staring at the older Uchiha, it didn't took her that long to realized who she was.

Kushina was still smiling as she took his hand" come on sweet heart I made lunch over an hour ago let's get going before it gets cold."

"Yes pardon me Anko-san" replied Itachi.

"Wait who the heck are you?!" Anko said looking at the red haired woman.

"I'm his fiancé" Kushina replied.

The snake mistress mouth went wide open' what the fuck Itachi is engaged?!'

She glared at the Uchiha" I told you that it's not like you have a girlfriend waiting for you?!"

"I apologize Kushina-san is my fiancé."

"Whatever I'm out of here damn I was wasting my time here after all" she left very unhappy taking one last look at Kushina' there's something about that red head.'

They watched her leaving while Kushina was smirking" looks like you have become the target of many women don't you?"

"Thank you Kushina-san….that woman scares me…"

She couldn't help but laughed at his comment" I don't believe it the famous Uchiha Itachi is afraid of someone like Anko."

"Sometimes women can be quite scary than any enemy you will face in battle."

"True I can be that kind of woman too" the red head smirked.

"Would you like to walk with me?" the Uchiha asked.

"Sure…"

They left the former police force building walking the empty streets of the Uchiha district. Kushina's blue eyes softened at the sight it was so deserted it looked so sad and depressing, anyone could feel lonely walking such an empty part of the village. She glanced at the older Uchiha perhaps he was feeling lonely and needed a friend before she realized that she was still holding his hand like they were really together. She sweat dropped before she removed it immediately trying not to looked rude, but she failed in doing so Itachi looked at her but he didn't show a reaction or that he was bothered by it.

"Sorry…"

"It's all right…"

Kushina continue walking with him she knew he was going to visit Sasuke because he told him before arriving at Konoha" so….how did it went with your brother?"

Itachi remained quiet his onyx eyes showed emotion they were filled with sorrow he started thinking about everything. The past, the massacre and the worst possibility that Sasuke doesn't have any salvation that isn't death the images were filling his head. Kushina got worried seeing his expression like he wasn't paying attention anymore she realized that asking the question has made him feel worst than he used to, she was feeling pretty bad with herself. Instead of helping him she screw up making him feel worst that wasn't how an Uzumaki help others she wasn't happy with how it has played out.

"That well eh….?"

"It's to be expected he wasn't going to listen to me eventually…."

"Have you considered telling him the truth?" she obviously knew the truth of the Uchiha massacre.

He shook his head" if I do that Sasuke will hate Konoha and he will take revenge on the village."

"He's not going to understand your actions why you made such a sacrifice?"

"He won't Sasuke's heart is like a blank canvas anyone can paint it with different colors."

"He's weak willed he's easy to get strayed off from a path and get manipulated by anyone" replied Kushina.

"Anyone can use the truth of the massacre to change him for the worst and turn him into Konoha's worst enemy since Orochimaru."

"I understand now why you want to keep the truth hidden from him but he's already a criminal and a traitor. I don't know how long will Tsunade keep him on hold before he gets taken care of for his crimes?"

"I'm ready to face the consequences until the end like I did before I followed my orders…"

"I will support you you're not alone" Kushina smiled at him.

"Much appreciate it Kushina-san. By the way what will you do now that you're back in the village?"

"I will find a job and then buy a place to stay of course."

"Job?" Itachi looked at her" didn't you talk to Tsunade-sama about making you an active ninja of Konoha?"

The red haired woman sighed" I didn't I want to spend some peace and quiet for a couple of days here after everything I've been through, some r and r is all I need for now. Maybe when I'm ready I will talk to her about making me an active ninja."

"With your experience you could easily become ANBU captain."

"My ANBU days are all over I will prefer another rank perhaps jounin…"

"Agreed I was thinking of becoming a jounin being in ANBU reminds me of the past a lot, I'm done living in pain just for the mere cause that it's hard for me to let go of the past…"

"Looking back into the past won't help you fix your life you only need to keep looking forward nowhere else. Perhaps one day you can finally gain that peace of mind you've been searching for a long time."

"Likewise Kushina-san living back in Konoha can perhaps give you the solution to heal your pain from the past you experienced…"

The red haired kunoichi nodded" thanks for the advice I will take it…."

"Don't mention it."

(Scene change)

(Location: south forest region rice country territory)

Naruto and Guren were jumping on the trees doing their search mission to find Yukimaru. They have already checked on a couple of caves and small gorges the smallest place that could make the perfect hide out for a twelve year old. So far they haven't found him it wasn't easy and it was beginning to think that it was like finding a needle in a haystack it wasn't going to stop them from searching. The mask mercenary was in deep thought resuming the search he couldn't put his finger that something was wrong and it was concerning about Orochimaru remembering what Guren told him. Covering his face it was the perfect reason to believe that he's an impostor why else will he hide his face, knowing that the snake sanin wouldn't be wearing something like a cloak. It made him think even more the other thing that the crystal kunoichi mentioned that he could use snake summons. Only those that have signed the snake summoning contract can perform such summons and so far they were two people who can summoned snakes, Ino and Anko there was a third person. The thinking was annoying him the more he thought it the more it was possible to believe why would he doubt himself now, he saw it with his own eyes how he died.

'Damn it…he's dead he can't be alive…'

Guren jumped on another tree branch looking straight ahead' I'm certain Rinji and the others haven't found him yet not with his mist ability. Hold on Yukimaru I'm coming.'

"Guren?" Naruto replied leaving his thinking.

"Hmm…what?" she kept her eyes forward.

"About Orochimaru….you said that he was wearing a cloak to cover his face right?"

"That's right…"

"Have you seen his face?"

"I haven't not since he started wearing the cloak…"

'I wonder if she has heard about the news of his death…'

"Guren?"

The crystal kunoichi looked at him annoying because she was desperate to find Yukimaru" what is it now?"

"Do you think Orochimaru succeeded in taking over Sasuke's body?"

"Of course he did what a stupid question is that, if he had failed he wouldn't be standing alive to this very day?!"

"I see…." The blond jinchurikki went into deep thought' I knew it she doesn't know a thing that Orochimaru was taken over by Sasuke and killed at the Valley of the end, she believes Sasuke is dead because of the soul transfer jutsu. Whoever that cloaked guy is definitely not Orochimaru but someone else who could have somehow copied his techniques it's the only logical explanation so far…'

He reached for his radio communicator" Huntress how are things on your side?"

"We're still searching but I will let you know immediately if I find him" came the voice of the pink haired mask kunoichi.

"Right I and Guren have done a lot of searching in the south area and we haven't found anything yet, tell the others that we'll be heading back to the rendezvous point in two hours."

"Roger!"

"Two hours you're going to quit searching this area so quickly?!" Guren said not sounding happy.

"We can continue with searching the other areas finding Yukimaru isn't easy as I thought which means that you're friends must be having the same trouble as well. Who knows how long they have been searching for him?"

The crystal user nodded remembering his abilities but she couldn't help but feel concern for him' Yukimaru…'

(Scene change)

(Location: north valley region rice country territory)

Sakura and the Naruto shadow clone were doing their part of the search in one of the valleys of the country side. So far they haven't had any luck like the real Naruto and Guren they were trying to find someone hard to find due for his ability to create the mist. In addition the possibilities of them fighting were high the other group that Orochimaru sent with Guren to capture the three tails beast was on the move to find the boy as well. The pink haired medic kept her eyes wide open searching for the person according to Guren's description but there was still no sign of him, so much for having good luck on the search. For a moment she gazed at the clone he was also searching nonstop but right now as she looked at him she lost her focus on the mission, she remembered when she gave him the blowjob. She couldn't keep her mind for bringing up the blonds' twelve inch wonder rod the way she sucked it, how hot it felt inside of her mouth and the addicted taste. She tried to dispel the impure thoughts but she failed remembering how Naruto was groaning begging her not to stop as she sucked his cock, it made her feel so wet at the thought. Before she realized it she was now having different perverted dreams where the tall blond was pounding her with his impressive size manhood, she bit her lip thinking about it. Inner Sakura was enjoying the thought as she licked her lips imagining how pleasurable and satisfying must be.

"Oh Naruto….oh yes Naruto don't stop oooooohhhh yesssss!!!"

"No sign of him here" Naruto said looking around the valley" damn finding that kid is turning to be troublesome."

Sakura licked her lips still trapped in her little perverted world not paying attention to what the shadow clone of her leader just said.

"Come on Huntress let's look somewhere else!"

"…………"

"Huntress…hey Huntress do you hear me?" the jinchurikki looked at her.

"Hmm….huh….what oh yes what is it Kitsune-sama?"

"You okay…you seemed to have space out right about now?"

"Yeah I'm fine sorry for doing that my mind was focused too much in finding Yukimaru."

"Good excuse!" inner Sakura smirked in victory for giving the right excuse covering up her perverted fantasy.

"No problem I feel the same way let's get going."

"Right!"

They left while the clone activated his radio" Temptress any luck?"

"That's a big negative big fox" the voice of Ino was heard on the ear piece communicator.

"Big fox?" Sakura frowned at the nickname her best friend chose to call him.

Naruto sweat dropped" what's with calling me big fox?"

"You know I'm right Kitsune-sama you have such a big personality" the platinum blond emphasized on the word big.

'It's not my personality she's talking about as big' thought the clone with a grin" just contact me as soon as you see him we'll return to the rendezvous point in two hours

Sakura did understand the meaning of the Yamanaka's words she was blushing since she has seen his big attribute and she have to agreed with her. Just staring at his huge pillar of flesh will make her wet in a heartbeat while her inner self was having a field day thinking about the wonder rod.

"Heh he's big all right twelve inches is sure is an impressive size for a dick!" she got a nose bleed.

(Scene change)

(Location: east forest region rice country territory)

Ino and the Naruto shadow clone were jumping through the tree branches they were in the same boat as other group. No luck so far with finding the boy just like Naruto thought the mission was going to be hard finding Yukimaru in a large country was going to take them hours and even days. However Ino lost complete focus on the mission at hand as she started staring at her leader. Like Sakura she was now fantasizing about him after giving him a blow job twice she has become more attracted to him than especially in the sexual way, she felt like she was being choked by her hormones. Just thinking about sucking his pillar of flesh again and after the way he gave her oral sex she felt like moaning from anticipation, she blushed licking her lips she was already feeling so wet. All kinds of images were now running in her head which they were all perverted as once again the Yamanaka fell in her little perverted world just thinking about the hot blond next to her. She completely hold the urge to moan or even touch her body at the vivid images that were now running in her mind, her favorite was of the blond jinchurikki pounding her good with his manhood.

'Ooooohhhh Naruto more yess give me more oh baby fuck me ooooohhh shit!!!"

'Oh yes that will be so amazing I can imagine how good he must be doing hardcore.'

Unfortunately for the platinum blond she was so lost in her perverted fantasy so much that she lost focus on the road ahead not having a clue where she was going.

The Naruto shadow clone gasped in shock" Temptress look out!!"

"Hmm…" she replied but it was too late to do anything now.

WHAM!!!

Ino hit face first on a tree before she felt but she was luckily caught by Naruto. He saw her looking all dizzy like she was seeing stars looking very comical although she still couldn't stop thinking about her fantasy with her hot leader.

"Temptress are you all right?!"

"Everything….is spinning hehehe…" she giggled like she was a six year old.

He sweat dropped" you should really pay attention to where you're going."

"Everything is going around and around and around wheeee….more I want more on the spinning ride."

He sighed activating his radio" what about you Mistress?"

"Nothing so far Kitsune-kun but me and your other clone found a town ahead we will change before heading there" came the voice of Hinata.

"Good contact me as soon as you find him fitting the description we'll return to the rendezvous point in two hours."

"Right!"

"Let's get going Temptress."

"I'm only five and a half hehe…." Ino was obviously still under the effect of hitting the tree.

(Scene change time skip)

(Location: west town rice country territory)

Naruto and Hinata have changed their uniforms wearing regular civilian clothing. Naruto was wearing a simple brown shirt with a swirl colored orange, black baggy pants with some blue sandals. Hinata was wearing a white cream loose blouse covering completely her large define frame, long tight navy blue pants matching the color of her hair and brown sandals. They resumed their search walking the streets of the town looking at the people the sight was a little depressing to bear. Most of the villagers were all nervous while others were in tears some of the children were in the streets with an expression that will break anyone's heart. None of them were playing the town itself was more poorly constructed compare to other towns they have visited, the two ninjas disguised as civilians felt depressed by the sight. It couldn't be help this was the result of living in fear because of Orochimaru the snake sanin always raided their town and take captives the people just to make them his lab rats for his experiments. Each day they will have live in fear that he might come here to take more of them to make them his personals guinea pigs, they gazed at each other like they were reading their mind. This only motivated them to find Orochimaru and capture him rice country was under his rule and they didn't have a choice but submit to him, they were basically his slaves his capture will lead to the freedom of rice country.

Passing through the crowd they still haven't found any sign of Yukimaru. For a while they stood focusing on the mission until they started noticing each other. Hinata has finally taken a good look at her leader since they entered the town and even with his normal clothing it still made him look handsome, in fact to her he will look good with any clothing on. She blushed at the thought and any incoming impure thoughts that will entered her mind she was on a mission she couldn't get distracted, this was the first time she hated being so attracted to the blond jinchurikki. Naruto was in the same boat noticing Hinata's choice of clothing although her blouse was covering up her voluptuous front he was able to see the rest of her marvelous figure. He has always seen the Hyuga heiress wearing baggy clothes but not this time the long pants she was wearing were tight, allowing him to see her nice long legs along with a well developed bottom. He cursed mentally at his hormones and prayed to Kami that he doesn't get an erection in the middle of an important mission, for now he erased any dirty thoughts concerning the Hyuga beauty.

Hinata sighed walking through the crowd' this isn't getting us anywhere…'

She silently activated her byakugan looking around the entire town in hope that they will find the boy here. Minutes later they left the crowded street heading into the market area where her eyes widened reacting that she has spotted something on interest.

Naruto obviously noticed getting her attention" what is it Hinata?"

"I think I found him Naruto-kun…"

He gasped" you did…lead the way?!"

"Right!"

They ran through the market street until reaching one of the food stands filled with all kinds of fruits. They saw a young teen talking to the owner of the place their eyes fell on the boy. He had long light hazel hair, purple eyes wearing a grey tunic with a green shirt and brown sandals. Their eyes landed next on the owner who seemed to be upset with what the teen was telling him.

"That's him his chakra is stronger than the average person…." Hinata said.

The shadow clone nodded" yeah he fits the description Guren told us come on."

She nodded walking towards the fruit stand there was a small area where the owner had dozens of apples, they overheard their conversation.

"Please sir I want an apple."

"You got money?" asked the grumpy owner.

"No…"

"Then you don't get one now beat it kid!"

"But I'm hungry" replied the teen.

"Not my problem if you want it you'll have to buy it."

"It's all right I'll buy it for him."

They turned to see Hinata and Naruto who were looking at the boy while he smiled staring at the Hyuga heiress who was kind enough to buy an apple for him.

Hinata took some money from her wallet" here you go mister I have enough to buy more than one apple could you put them all in a bag?"

"Sure thing miss" the owner completely changed his mood as soon as he saw the money.

He took a paper bag" how many would you like?"

"Eight will be more than enough thank you" she smiled at the boy.

He picked the eight apples and put them all in the paper bag he kindly gave them to Hinata and she handed him the right amount of money in the same kindly way. The long haired boy was still staring at the Hyuga heiress with a smile he was blushing slightly looking at her in a dreamy way he felt his heart beating a little faster looking at her, there was a time it skipped a beat it was a very cute sight. However the Naruto shadow clone wasn't feeling happy watching the teen stared dreamily at the Hyuga beauty his friend, team member and girl he has strong feelings. He knew from Jiraiya about the behavior from both men and women when they were interested in someone and the long haired boy was showing that interested look, no doubt that he started feeling angry at someone younger than him interested in Hinata. He sighed mentally not believing he was getting jealous this was the last thing he needed.

'Perfect looks like he has a crush on Hinata….'

"Thank you come again" replied the owner.

"Here you go" Hinata handed the bag full of apples.

"Thank you…." The teen was blushing.

Naruto ignored the jealousy he was feeling leaving the fruit stand with the Hyuga heiress getting next to him" so….you alone or are you with your parents?"

The teen with long haired stood quiet his eyes softened mentioning the word parents" I never knew my father but my mother….she was killed I'm an orphan…"

"I'm sorry to hear that" replied Hinata.

"What's your name?" Naruto finally asked the question he has wanted to ask.

"Yukimaru…"

The two teens looked at each other giving a nod they were so relief to have finally found the person they were looking for. The most important thing is that they could finally resume their original mission to find Orochimaru's hide out, but there some bad news. The Naruto shadow clone didn't know how long he will take realizing that the teen had a smack crush on Hinata, the jealousy was killing him. It was going to be worst when the original Naruto will feel all those emotions when he vanishes.

He growled mentally' what the hell is wrong with me for crying out loud he's just a kid?!'

"We finally found him" replied the blond.

"What…what do you mean?" Yukimaru took a few steps back getting scare having a bad feeling.

"Wait Yukimaru-san it's all right we're not going to hurt you. You can trust us don't be afraid" Hinata said.

The long haired teen kept his distance from the two people that would have become potential great friends. He was having trouble thinking due that he was so hungry his eyes were fixed on the bag full of apples that the Hyuga heiress bought for him. Maybe that was her plan all along to try and buy his trust and when he least expected she will strike he couldn't trust no one, remembering what Guren told him a while back.

"Listen Yukimaru I need you to stay well hidden…don't trust anyone and whatever you do don't lose panic. I swear I will try and come for you I promise…"

"Don't come near me…." He looked around the street.

"Easy kid we're not going to hurt you we're here to help you" Naruto said.

"That's right Guren asked us to find you" replied Hinata.

The teen reacted smiling" Guren-san….Guren-san asked you to find me?"

"We're doing her a favor but yes we have been looking everywhere for you" the shadow clone said.

"Can I trust you?" Yukimaru replied.

"Of course" Hinata smiled showing him the bag of apples" you're hungry I bought them just for you."

The teen blushed giving her a nod he reached out his hand to grab an apple the kunoichi was offering him. He smiled taking the apple and started eating it a little quickly he was starving while she was smiling at him the shadow clone however frowned at the sight still feeling jealous.

"You can trust us Yukimaru-san we're your friends eat as much as you like" Hinata sweat dropped seeing that the teen was already done eating the first apple' he was really hungry.'

"Mission accomplished" Naruto reached for his radio communicator" team I have good news we found Yukimaru."

The shadow clone tried again hearing only static" can anyone read me…?"

"Don't tell me….Naruto-kun" Hinata got worried.

The blond jinchurikki sighed" yeah we must have reached the range limit of the radio we can't contact the others."

"If we leave now maybe we can reach the rendezvous point before sun down" replied the kunoichi.

"Looks like we have no choice just because we found him it doesn't mean our mission is done. We can't forget that there still people going after Yukimaru as well as our original mission."

The Hyuga heiress nodded giving another apple to Yukimaru" let's get going."

They walked out of the street as the teen got next to Hinata smiling at her and she did the same. The shadow clone was watching everything with a frown how happy she was having the long haired youth with her. He knew it sometimes Hinata was too humble and kind with other for her own good.

(Scene change time skip)

(Location: outside of town rice country territory)

The newly friends have left the town and they were now heading towards the rendezvous point where the rest of the team was going to meet. The shadow clone was still watching as Hinata and Yukimaru were laughing together like they were already the best of friends, both of them were sharing the apples she bought for him. One of the things that annoyed the blond the most was when she used a kunai to split an apple in half giving one half to the teen, he was going to crazy from the jealousy. He felt so left out both of them were acting like he wasn't there to begin with seeing how happy the Hyuga heiress looked with the young teen, it was enough to break his heart. She was always happy whenever she was with her friends but to him it was an exception with how she was acting so happily with Yukimaru. What hurt him the most is that she hasn't said a word to him since she started talking to the long haired teen, she's always so loyal to him always talking to him but now he felt like she has abandoned him and it hurts. He didn't wanted to think about it anymore he needed to think positive, focusing on the mission was more important than some dumb jealousy residing for his team member and a twelve year old boy.

"Want another apple Yukimaru-san?" Hinata offered another piece of the fruit.

"Thanks Hinata" the teen kindly took the apple with a slight blush on his cheeks.

The Hyuga heiress was still impressed that he could eat another apple" what was the last time you actually eaten?"

"I don't know It's been a while…I have been hiding for a long time I really miss Guren-san…"

"You don't have to worry anymore we will reunite you with Guren" replied the kunoichi.

Naruto finally decided to talk in order to erased any jealousy and so he didn't felt so left out" by the way Yukimaru you're an orphan right?"

The long haired teen nodded" I have ever since my mother died…I don't have a home or a place to return to anymore…"

The shadow clone stood quiet once again he has meet another person who was sharing his pain of being an orphan, without any parents to care for him. Although he felt jealous at him for having Hinata's attention a lot and his crush for her, he also felt sympathy for him he understood some of his pain. Right now the only person he had close to him and cares for him was Guren, remember how much she has showed concern for him worried sick that she hasn't found him yet.

Hinata saw the look in his purple eyes before she smiled and looked at the sunset" wherever someone thinks of you….that's where home is…"

Naruto blinked hearing that giving a small smile using the same quote his teacher taught him. Yukimaru's eyes widened hearing the kunoichi's words he felt so happy hearing them, he understood what she was telling him.

The Hyuga heiress looked at him with a smile" home is the place where that person thinks of you…those people that care about you and misses you."

"Home…that's what home is" the long haired teen was smiling.

Hinata nodded" home is not exactly a place but rather the person that always thinks about you, the person who you consider to be precious to you…"

Naruto smiled at her' I'm impress Hinata you really know how to strengthen someone's bond.'

The Hyuga heiress gazed at the tall blond" someone very precious to me told me that important quote" she finished giving him a wink.

Naruto was completely flushed at the way she said it was more amazing at how she winked at him without feeling embarrassed he smiled at her' I can't believe I will get jealous over Yukimaru.'

Yukimaru nodded" I know now…Guren-san is my home she's the person I must return to."

"She really cares about you Yukimaru-san."

"I'll say she has been worried sick about you all this time" replied the blond junchirikki.

"Thank you…" he replied smiling taking another bite from the apple.

"Now let's get continue the sooner we arrive the sooner you and Guren can finally be reunited" Hinata smiled.

The Naruto shadow clone smiled at the sight he decided to erase any jealousy he had on the youth, as he continued to walk through the grassy field he took noticed of something. He saw a bat hanging from a tree branch the mere sight of it was enough to make him look suspicious.

'That's very unusual for a bat to be here in plain daylight, they can't stand the sun light so why…somehow I have a bad feeling about this…'

He gazed at the two" we should hurry."

The Hyuga heiress nodded as they continued walking while the bat has already flown away.

(Scene change time skip)

(Location: a few miles away from the town rice country territory)

Orochimaru's group was near a cliff gazing to the view of the country. Some of them were in a bad mood while others were bore because they still haven't found Yukimaru. Kiho was the one in a bad mood and highly annoyed that it has taken them so long to find the teen. Kigiri was the one feeling bore he was tire to continue with the mission, he felt like it was better to give up on the search because the teen wasn't worth it. Nurari was just resting his eyes seated on the edge of the cliff he didn't minded the rest they have take all because it has taken down a while to find Yukimaru. Rinji was the only one who was paying attention on their mission checking the sky if one of his allies arrived, although he was feeling irritated to continue with this mission he thought it was meaningless to go after someone who is no longer useful to their master.

He grinned as he saw a bat flying towards him he extended his hand letting the flying creature hang there. He heard the squeaks from the bat before he gave a satisfactory grin at what he just heard he went to the rest of the group.

"Let me guess" Kiho started" you haven't found the brat again?"

Rinji chuckle" on the contrary…I have found him."

"What?!"

"You finally found him Rinji?" asked Nurari.

"Those are good news" Kigiri replied.

"About damn time!" Kiho said.

"Where is he?" Nigiri said.

"He's not too far from our position he just left a nearby town. However he's not alone….he's being accompany by two people a guy and a girl they don't look like their ninjas because of their clothing though" Rinji replied.

"Then let's get going already I'm sick of this stupid mission!" Kiho said.

"I agree let's find that brat and get this over with" Nurari said.

"Killing him will be easy but what should we do with the two people who are with him?" Nigiri replied.

Rinji grinned" we can always take them hostage so they become Orochimaru-sama's test subjects he will be happy that we will brought him more lab rats to test his experiments."

(Scene change)

(Location: rendezvous point forest region rice country territory)

The real Naruto has regrouped with Sakura and Ino Gure was also present but she wasn't happy that the blond had called off the search from their part of the country a little too soon to be expected. He dispelled the two shadow clones that were accompanying the two kunoichis ready to report anything that they have found in their search. Hopefully it will be good news because they a even more important mission in their hands the sooner the better. They did take notice that they were one team member short but perhaps she was on her way so they decided to wait for their third teammate.

"Well team any luck so far?"

"No I didn't found any leads that will lead me to Yukimaru" Sakura said.

"Same here wherever the kid he must be hiding very well" replied Ino.

He sighed" me too we didn't got lucky either."

"We should get back to where we left off and continue searching for Yukimaru" Guren said quickly.

"Easy Guren I know you're desperate to find him but we won't be able to do it if we rush things, let's wait for everyone to arrive and report" replied the mask mercenary.

"Right Mistress hasn't arrived yet" Sakura said.

"Where could she be?" asked the Yamanaka.

Naruto reached for his radio" this is Kitsune come in Mistress."

He only heard static" Mistress can you hear me?"

"It's not working" Ino said.

"She must have gotten too far from her location" replied the pink haired medic.

The blond jinchurikki sighed" the radio range limit…great."

"What are we going to do we can't contact Mistress?" asked the platinum blond.

"It's all right my shadow clone is still with her so she will be fine."

Guren growled" if she can't come here then what are we going to do?!"

"I'm afraid we have no choice but wait for Mistress to get here."

"What?!" the crystal kunoichi was upset" I'm not going to sit here while Yukimaru is still out there in danger, I can't let anything bad happen to him!"

"Relax nothing good will come if you're all desperate" Ino said.

"I didn't asked for your opinion!" she snapped.

'She can be very rude sometimes' thought Sakura.

"Guren I told you to calm down rushing on things won't help us at all, just be patient I promise you that we will get word from Mistress she will be here" Naruto said.

The crystal user stood quiet deciding to give patience a shot she was still upset thinking about the young teen' Yukimaru….I hope you're all right…'

(Scene change time skip)

(Location: forest region rice country territory)

The Naruto shadow clone, Hinata and Yukimaru were jumping through the tree branches they have increased their speed so they can get to rendezvous point faster. In truth the blond had a bad feeling remembering the bat hanging when the sun was shining brightly, bats didn't like the sun light so they prefer to come out when it's dark. It made him wonder ninjas will used any types of tools to help them gather information or to track someone, he learned that from Ibiki during the the first test of the chunin exams. They were any types of tools from methods of interrogations, to messenger hawks, to dogs and even bats. He gazed at Hinata who had her byakugan activated she was well aware that they could be ambush due that he told her about the bat, he hopes they didn't ran into trouble just when they found Yukimaru.

Hinata gasped looking ahead" Naruto-kun we have company!"

'Damn it I knew it that bat gave the enemy away our position.'

"What's wrong?" asked Yukimaru.

"Yukimaru-san stay behind me!" replied the Hyuga heiress.

Suddeny a thick smokescreen has covered the entire forest blinding everything they knew they have been found by the enemy.

"I can't see a thing what about you Hinata?!"

"Me neither this smoke is too thick the byakugan is having problems seeing right through it!"

The two ninjas didn't wasted their time as they quickly draw their summoning scrolls where they kept their uniforms, the scrolls were blood encrypted so they can only be open with their own blood. They bit their thumb and released some of their blood on the scrolls creating two clouds of smoke revealing their uniforms.

Naruto made hand seals" wind release air bullet!"

He blew the entire smoke with the strong gust from his mouth the smoke revealed Rinji and the gang. Their eyes widened when they saw the people they have confronted looking at them with shock and fear. The good news were that they found Yukimaru the bad news they ran into two ninjas wearing fox masks, looking at the masks they got scared. They have heard from the rumors about the ninjas who wear the same kind of masks they were famous and dangerous, they will strike fear in anyone. They also heard that they were coldhearted demons who didn't show any mercy to their opponents they realized they were in the wrong place at the wrong time. Rinji was shocked, Kigiri was in the same boat, Nurari was speechless and Kiho was ready to crap in his pants.

"That's…" Kigiri said.

"Those masks…." Rinji replied.

"Shit it's them!" Kiho said.

"They're from team Kitsune Flash!" Nurari added.

Naruto grinned" I'm guessing you guys are the ones who Orochimaru sent to get Yukimaru or should I say to kill him?"

Rinji remained calm to the situation" we have business with that boy this doesn't concern you."

Hinata became over protective of Yukimaru keeping him behind her" it does concern us if you want to kill him what has he ever done to any of you?"

"Nothing orders are orders our boss asked us to get rid of him because he has no more use for him, we don't have nothing personal against the boy honestly" replied Rinji.

"Yes he failed in his only purpose" Nurari said.

"Only purpose…?" Naruto glared at him.

"He's only a tool to control the three tails beast nothing else but now that it was captured by someone else, he doesn't have a purpose anymore" Kiho replied.

Hinata glared at him taking a quick glance at Yukimaru who lowered his gaze" you monster how could you think like that treating him like he was just a mere tool?!"

"In Orochimaru-sama's eyes he's only a tool nothing personal" Kigiri said.

The shadow clone chuckle at his comment" that's funny how you say that but you people are also nothing but tools to Orochimaru, in fact he could care less about any of you. You're all expendable because you're nothing but a bunch of dirty prisoners he can get more of you in the rat cell."

"You have a lot of guts talking to us like that!" Kiho said upset.

"It's the truth…" he mused.

"That's enough Kiho this is Kitsune Flash we didn't come here to cost trouble. Our only mission is to kill that boy so I will say that you and your teammate leave and let us handle him" Rinji said.

"We're not going to let you lay a hand on Yukimaru-san!" Hinata replied angry.

"Yup if you want the boy you will have to get pass us first" replied Naruto.

"What are we going to do?" asked Nurari.

Rinji grinned" very well you leave us no choice but to fight."

"What?" replied the shocked Kiho.

"We're going to fight Kitsune Flash?!" Kigiri looked at him like he was crazy.

'Looks like someone has a death wish' thought Kiho.

"Team Kitsune Flash consist of four members I only see two we have the upper hand in numbers, they're not going nowhere" Rinji said.

"What do you know you can count I'm impressed" replied Naruto with a smirk.

"Say what you will, we'll be taking the kid from your hands" replied the bat user.

"We will stop you" Hinata said.

"Mistress take Yukimaru and go."

"What I can't let you fight them on your own?!"

"Our mission right now is to get Yukimaru into safe hands, there's no need to waste chakra on these guys…go now."

Even if she wanted to help her leader fight she still nodded looking over at the long haired youth" let's go Yukimaru-san."

He nodded as they started leaving.

"You're not going anywhere!" Kiho said as he launched a smoke dragon from his wrist arm rocket.

Hinata reacted a she used her great heavenly spin to blocked the smoke dragon, she took Yukimaru's hand and they were off leaving the group. She took a look behind gazing at the mask mercenary her pale eyes softened thinking about him.

'Kitsune-kun….it's all right he's just a shadow clone the real Kitsune-kun is safe but still….I wanted to help him…'

The prisoners dodged a couple of kunais coming from Naruto he took more kunais from his pouch" now don't go chasing her you're fight is with me."

"Suit yourself then" Rinji said with a grin.

'I have little chakra left because I used the air bullet jutsu I will vanish soon' the shadow clone grinned looking at them.

"Well who's going to be first?" he grinned.

"Come on not even Kitsune Flash will be able to take on all of us at once" Nurari said.

He chuckle" looks like you don't know me so well I have defeated a lot of people in large numbers and you know something they were a lot stronger than you weaklings?"

"We'll see about that" Kigiri said ready to fire one of his attacks.

The blond kept his grin as he stabbed a kunai with a paper bomb on the tree branch" see you later suckers!"

POOF!!!

He finally vanished shocking the whole group.

"What he was a shadow clone all along?!" shouted Kiho.

"Let's get out of here!" shouted Rinji horrified at the paper bomb.

BOOM!!!

(Scene change)

(Location: rendezvous point forest region rice country territory)

Naruto finally got all the images and memories from his shadow clone, he knew that Hinata found Yukimaru. He frowned when he got the images where Yukimaru was blushing at her as well the jealousy his clone felt due that the teen has a crush on her. He also got the memories where she told the youth Jiraiya's quote and finally when they were found by Orochimaru's group. He looked at over at the two mask kunoichis and Guren.

"What's wrong Kitsune-sama?" Sakura asked seeing her leader acting strange.

"My last shadow clone finally vanished Mistress found Yukimaru and he's fine."

"What where are they?!" Guren was beyond happy she finally felt so relief that the teen has been finally found safe and sound.

"They're too far away due that Mistress passed the radio range limit, I don't think they will make it here before sundown" the blond jinchurikki was in deep thought" Guren is Yukimaru well known about Orochimaru's hide out?"

"Why do you want to know?" the crystal kunoichi didn't like where this was going.

"You can trust me and my team we found Yukimaru for you now it's time that you fulfill your end of the bargain, tell me if Yukimaru knows the location to the hidden sound village?"

The crystal user nodded" yes he knows he has gotten out of the hide out more than once so he knows how to get there by now."

"Good that makes things easier for us" he replied biting his thumb making some blood appeared making hand seals" summoning jutsu!"

POOF!!!

Once the smoke lifted a familiar big toad appeared colored red wearing a dark blue kimono, he smiled seeing the mask mercenary.

"Yo Naruto it's been a while how are you doing?!"

"Gamakichi I have a job for you. I need you to stay here and wait for Mistress to get here."

"What are you saying?" Guren's bad feeling just gotten worse.

Gamakichi nodded" roger I will wait for her here."

The blond jinchurikki turned to his team members" we're heading to the hidden sound village without Mistress."

"I get it now we go to Orochimaru's hide out and Yukimaru will lead Mistress there too" Ino said.

"That's right..."

"You're going to risk making Yukimaru go back to that place?!" Guren wasn't happy.

"Sorry but it will take too long for them to meet us here and we have to hurry to Orochimaru's hide out, time is not on our side."

"Besides Guren" Sakura spoke" you don't have to worry about Yukimaru he's in safe hands Mistress will protect him."

"Yeah she's always pushing herself to protect her friends she will do the same for him" Ino replied.

"We trust Mistress with our own lives I think it's time that you start putting your faith in my team" Naruto said.

The crystal kunoichi stood quiet she didn't had nothing to lose they did fulfill the bargain by finding Yukimaru, she gave a sigh" fine I will trust your team to take care of Yukimaru."

The mask mercenary smiled" good since we finally have that out of the way we can get back to our original mission, please Guren take us to the hidden sound village."

She nodded" follow me."

(Scene change)

(Location: forest region rice country territory)

After the smoke cleared out from the paper bomb the shadow clone Naruto used Orochimaru's team survived the explosion. They have been protected from the explosion by Murari who was holding a large shield that seems to be made of water they weren't in the least happy. They finally found their target only to get away thanks to Kitsune Flash now it was back to square one for them they have to start searching again. Kiho was pissed while, Kigiri was annoyed, Nurari was tire for using his technique while Rinji was trying to remain calm and resume the seek and destroy mission.

"That was close…." Kigiri said.

"We could have been goners if Nurari hadn't used his water shield shot to block the explosion" Rinji said.

"Who cares about that, the brat got away we have to go after him!" Kiho said upset.

Nurari frowned at their behavior" how rude you're all supposed to say thank you for saving our lives."

"They couldn't have gotten far with the kid I'll have my wing friends to start scouting the area" Rinji replied.

Suddenly a snake appeared next to Rinji everyone was surprised before it vanished revealing a scroll.

"That's…." Kigiri started.

The young bat user grabbed the scroll and opened it he started reading the message" it's from Orochimaru-sama."

"What does he want he must know that we're busy finding that brat?" Nurari said.

"He wants us to return to the hide out."

"What why now?" Kigiri said.

"Don't have a clue let's just follow orders and return at once" Rinji replied.

"What about the brat?" asked Kiho.

"Forget him he's useless."

"You were the one saying that he wasn't worth the time you should be happy Kiho that the mission has been called off" Nurari said.

"That's a relief."

(Scene change time skip)

(Location: rendezvous point forest region rice country territory)

"Gamakichi why are you here?" Hinata asked the red toad.

"Naruto wanted me to tell you that he went ahead with everyone else to Orochimaru's hide out. That kid knows how to get there he will lead you to meet up with them."

"What?" she looked at the long haired teen" is that true Yukimaru-san?"

He nodded" I know the exact location it's not the first time I have left from the sound village."

"I see then please Yukimaru-san take me there."

"Well my job is done I'm leaving."

POOF!!!

Once Gamakichi was gone they left from the rendezvous point Yukimaru leading her to the hidden sound village.

'I guess Kitsune-kun couldn't wait any longer to wait for me, he's desperate to find out if Orochimaru really is alive….Kitsune-kun…'

To be continued

Well looks like I have failed in updating early and also in making the chapter shorter, oops I did it again. You all must be biting your nails thinking if Orochimaru is dead or alive you will find out in the next chapter I won't say a word I want all of you to die from the suspense, I'm evil indeed. For those who are eagerly awaiting an emotional and romantic Naru/Hina moment hehe I already have something plan in my sleeve you will find out in the next chapter. Thank you everyone for waiting so long for me to update this story and thank you to everyone who are still reading, reviewing and putting the story in your story alerts and favorite list. That will be all for today farewell until the next time and don't forget to review peace out!

Next chapter Fangs of the snake part 2: the most cunning snake always sheds its skin quicker