Chapter 28 Judgment for revenge part 1: a taste of hatred and revenge
'' this means thoughts
Italics are flashbacks
Bold letters inner Sakura or Kyuubi speaking
Authors Notes: welcome to another exciting chapter and holy crap this story has reached over 1000 reviews I am so happy. Thank you very much to everyone who is still reviewing and liking the story I will do my best to make it even better I hope that you all continue to read it, even with the grammar horrors. This is the next arc in the story which I have decided long ago to focus on various things with the team, between the girls friendship and finally Ino's relationship with Naruto. So yeah this arc will develop Saku/Ino/Hina friendship and major Naru/Ino development, plus I have a couple of surprise characters that will make their debut in this chapter. Remember to read and review and who knows before this arc ends I might make another teaser lemon it's a huge chance it will be a Naru/Ino since it's been a while that I have written a teaser lemon between them. That will be all please enjoy the chapter.
(Time skip: one week later)
(Location: unknown)
It was quiet in a dark place with a stone lantern the only sound heard was a small water drop from a stalagmite. There was no noise in what it seems to be a cavern, not even the habitant bats weren't screeching even with the small light emitting from the stone lantern. There was nothing in sight until the dark place was filled with six holographic figures who were the members of the organization Akatsuki they are always secretive and hard to track but when they make their move it's unexpected for anyone to know, obviously more members we're missing. One of them however seems to be new through his hologram his physical was unknown he looked to have some kind of mask his face was concealed even more. Aside from the new member the rest of the members were present too Pain, Konan, Zetsu, Hidan and Kakuzu they were having another one of their meetings to discuss about their plans to gather the jinchurikkis.
"Don't tell me we're going to seal another Bijuu it's so damn boring?" asked Hidan who was being his usual rude self.
"I think it's fun" replied the new member in a happy tone.
"Shut the fuck up Tobi!"
"Ah don't yell at me Mr. Hidan!"
"Is there a reason for this meeting?" Kakuzu said ignoring the two.
"I have some unfortunate news" replied Pain.
Soon it became clear to Kakuzu that there were some members missing" where are Deidara and Sasori?"
"Those are the unfortunate news" said the Akatsuki leader" Sasori is dead, Deidara has been captured and taken to hidden stone village he's probably dead as well."
"Oh now we have lost more members I'm really going to missed Deidara sempai" Tobi gave a sob.
"First Itachi and Kisame and now Deidara and Sasori" said Kakuzu.
"It was team Kitsune Flash" replied white Zetsu.
"They have become a thorn in our side" said black Zetsu.
"Which leads me to another topic to bring in this meeting, Hidan Kakuzu you two failed to look for the nine tails" said Pain.
"Great blame us for the failures of the organization we went to fire country and he wasn't there, we were ambushed by a couple of fuckers from Konoha, at least I was able to have another sacrifice for Jashin-sama…."
"I appreciate Hidan for reminding me of the ruckus you and Kakuzu caused while you were looking for the nine tails, we're not supposed to bring a lot of attention" replied Pain.
"Those cocksuckers are the ones to blame!" shouted the Jashin worshiper.
"Hidan watch your language" Kakuzu said.
"I'll fucking say whatever the hell I want!"
"Oh no Mr. Hidan is being a potty mouth again saying those words is bad" Tobi replied.
"I didn't ask for your god damn opinion!"
"Enough!" shouted the Akatsuki leader" this is the second time you two have failed in capturing a Bijuu, I will not tolerate any more failures from you two…."
"We are in lighting country right now we'll go after the two tails again" replied Kakuzu.
"So beat it capture the jinchurikki I'm not in a good mood…."
"At least we captured the three tails we didn't failed completely" Hidan tried to act nice.
"That is not enough to erase your past failures…."
"We will not fail this time, we failed to captured the two tails because Kitsune Flash was there both of them teamed up against us. We can take her own alone" said Kakuzu.
"I hope that bastard with a fox mask will be there again I haven't forgotten what he did to me, I will gladly offer that fucker to Jashin-sama."
"You will not do such thing Hidan" Pain's whirlpool eyes glared at him" the nine tails is essential to our plans we need him alive, are we clear?"
"Fine" the Jashin worshiper replied with a growl he was obviously not happy.
"If you two don't capture the two tails you will be in big trouble" Tobi gave a childlike laugh.
"Make sure you two hurry up, we must make up for Sasori and Deidara's failure in capturing the one tail" said the Akatsuki leader.
'He's also giving us the assignment to capture the Shukaku?' thought Kakuzu.
Hidan growled looking at Pain and Tobi' damn those two curse them….'
"We'll be leaving then."
Hidan and Kakuzu's holograms vanished leaving four members behind.
"Zetsu you know what to do…."
"Yes" Black Zetsu said.
"We will watch over the fight and report every detail of the battle to you" replied white Zetsu.
(Scene change)
Hidan and Kakuzu have finally opened their eyes leaving from their meditate state in order to perform the hologram technique. Both of them weren't happy that they have been given a double mission so soon. Members of Akatsuki always get one mission to capture a jinchurikki once they have gathered all the necessary data on the Bijuu host, when they capture one it will take time before they set out to capture their other jinchurikki target. This was the first time they have been given two jinchurikki targets in a row they had ways to go before capturing them, their first target will be the jinchurikki host of the two tails cat Nibi. It was the second they were going after the jinchurikki but they failed thanks to the mask mercenary. The combined forces of Kitsune Flash and the two tails were too much for them leaving them with no choice but to retreat, their lives were saved. If it wasn't for their special abilities they would have been killed by the jinchurikki tag team for sure.
Of course they were waiting to fight him again to get some pay back especially Hidan but their orders were cleared to bring the mask mercenary alive, but it has gotten even harder than before. Now Kitsune Flash has his own team capturing him when he was on his own was difficult, capturing him now was probably suicide. They knew his team was strong especially Kakuzu who was well aware with targets in the black market the three mask kunoichis each were A rank targets they are strong. Now the zombie duo were very much annoyed and upset for giving them two targets so suddenly, they will probably have to capture Kitsune Flash too. They were being the ones to clean up for the other members failures which it was pissing Hidan a lot, it didn't bothered his partner as long as he can earn more money for the organization. Kakuzu was the one in charge of Akatsuki's financials he was responsible to bring the money to them to keep the organization in line. Both members have gotten up ready to leave they were in a mountain path next to a small gorge. They were ready to resume their failed mission from a couple of years ago, their plan to capture the two tails as quickly as possible so they can go to their next assignment.
The two members were obviously wearing their respective Akatsuki cloaks in which Hidan was wearing his cloak opened with no shirt showing his bare chest, and their scratched headbands. Hidan's headband had the design of three side lines going up and down it was the sign of the hidden boiling water village, while Kakuzu's headband had the symbol of the hidden waterfall village. Hidan in appearance had short length silver hair with purple eyes aside with his headband he was wearing the amulet of his god Jashin which is a triangle inside a circle he was holding his weapon of choice, his three blade blood colored scythe. Kakuzu was wearing his usual ninja mask he seemed to be old probably older than his partner, he looked like he was in a bad mood because he won't get a chance to gain money. He wasn't in the mood to talk and with the current jobs ahead he felt like killing Hidan to appease his anger, he only wished he could do that.
"Damn that leader giving us all the shit load work."
"Whining about it isn't going to make a difference" Kakuzu replied.
Hidan growled" I hate that fucking retard Tobi why the hell did leader made someone like him joined Akatsuki?"
"Beats me we are low on members after all, we need man power to extract the Bijuu."
"And we're the ones who have to pay for those death fuckers' failures now we have doubled the work!"
"Didn't you hear me whining about it isn't going to make a difference so just shut your trap already?" Kakuzu glared at his partner.
"You think you can shut me up Kakuzu?" the Jashin worshiper glared back.
"Don't start with me Hidan."
"Come on you talk big let's see if you can back it up, think you can shut my mouth or you're just a pussy who only likes to hear himself talk?"
"You're pissing me off Hidan…."
"The feeling is mutual."
"I'll kill you."
"Just try it."
They stood quiet for a moment until Kakuzu made the first move launching his fist. Hidan only grinned as he blocked it using his scythe he launched another one and he kept on blocking it, they continued doing the same attacks four more times. It was always the same whenever they were having an argument it will eventually turned into a fight. Among Akatsuki they were probably the pair who is the most unusual and they seemed to hate each other a lot, most of the times they are traveling they always end up in an argument. If it continues they end up attacking each other they were completely the opposite Hidan only believed in his religion and god and Kakuzu only believed in money, fortune and religion was two sides of the same coin. They disagreed on almost everything from their high beliefs to even with business it was anyone's guess how in the world they could last as a tag team in the criminal organization. They stood glaring at each other Kakuzu was trying to break from Hidan's scythe he had the strength to destroy the weapon if he wanted, but he knew business was calling to them.
He stopped his attack looking upset" forget about this non sense we have a mission to do…."
The Jashin worshiper grinned" couldn't do it huh?"
"Let's get going we have wasted too much time here, we must capture the two tails."
"Right going back after that infidel bitch from Kumo, she was cocky last time because the nine tails was with her, I will put her in her place with Jashin-sama's might" they started walking.
"Let's hope you don't mess up like you did back at fire country."
Hidan glared at his partner" what the hell you're still pissed for what happened?"
"I lost the chance to capture Sarutobi Asuma and deliver him to the black market he had a big bounty on his head. The bounty would have been useful for the organization."
"Whatever the Konoha fuckers called for reinforcements and also leader called us to retreat if you have forgotten. If you should be pissed at anyone it should be with him not me…."
"Letting Konoha take his body was such a waste to get the money."
"There you go again with that sinful shit, money is a sin it's a sign that shows greed Jashin-sama punish anyone with the fucking stench of greed. Money is a useless pile of shit that only infidels follow its customs."
"Money is what makes the five countries run the way they are, how you think the feudal lords are controlling the ninja villages that are protecting his country?" the missing nin from hidden water fall glared back.
"There all worthless sinners in Jashin-sama's eyes…."
"In order for the feudal lord to provide money for the ninja villages they keep the missions system in order to provide him with the same amount he's given with the earnings from the missions they succeed. It proves how strong the power of money really is, whether you like it or not Hidan money is an important asset in the world as well as in Akatsuki. I believe leader-sama has already explained to you the reason why we need money?"
"Yeah yeah some shit about becoming a mercenary organization making the other hidden villages count on our services, bla bla I forgot the rest…."
"Just try to stop whining and stop talking about your god already."
"I will talk about Jashin-sama the savior of this world as much as I want to!"
"Let's not start another fight, I would really kill you with my bare hands" said Kakuzu.
"I would love to see you try…."
The former masked ninja from water fall was glaring at his partner while tightening his fists. He hated him so much he hated the fact that he had such an annoying complete opposite for a partner, he cursed the day he was paired up with the Jashin worshipper. If it wasn't for his special ability he would have killed him long ago just like every single person he has been put up to have as his partner. If looks could kill he would have killed Hidan a million time of course he knew that will be impossible to fulfill, the missing nin from hidden boiling water was grinning at his partner. He knew he couldn't do it that's why he will always annoyed and pissed him whenever he had the chance, or rather when he was feeling bore. This time he didn't reacted he just continue to walk while the Jashin worshipper was starting to react, he wasn't falling for his taunts and dares.
"Didn't you hear me Kakuzu I said I would love to see you try to kill me go ahead take your best shot at me?"
"…"
"Oh I get it the silent treatment that so lame, it's a move that only pussies like you would come up with…."
"…."
Hidan was getting pissed at the silent treatment his partner was giving him" fuck you Kakuzu money is shit the tool for infidels to feast on, I hate money!"
That was the chance the masked ninja was looking for his partner has actually let his guard down. He released his fist stretching in it thanks to the wires his body was filled with and punched Hidan right on his nose making him screamed in pain. He nodded in satisfaction returning his hand returning to him he started to walk away while the Jashin worshipper was still feeling the pain and blood has poured from his nose.
"Fuck Kakuzu you broke my nose you dip shit!"
"You should be lucky that's all I broke…."
"Shit I can't stop the bleeding, you're so lucky you caught me off guard. You're just a money lover infidel like the rest of them."
"You know Hidan you should stop pissing me off, because the next time you lose your head and your arms I might not be kind enough to attach them back to your body again."
The Jashin lover stood quiet lifting his scratched headband from his neck showing the wires Kakuzu used to stitched his head back again in his body, he had the same wires on his arms too. It was Kitsune Flash who did that to him he hasn't forgotten that day thinking about the mask mercenary only pissed him off. He didn't said another word and started ignoring the pain he was feeling for having a broken nose and resumed his walking finally catching up with his partner, he put his scythe where he always puts it strapped on his back.
"For once let's try to get along at least until we capture the two tails."
"Fine…." replied Hidan.
Kakuzu felt relief as they continued their journey for their target' that will keep his mouth shut for at least an hour before he will start rambling about his stupid god again….'
(Scene change)
(Location: border region lighting country territory)
As the morning sun was rising beginning another day, running at high speed through an open field was the mask team. Team Kitsune Flash has finally arrived at lighting country after a journey that took those days plus the moments they needed to rest, it took them a whole week to reach their destination. They were finally here but they still needed to go to place of their next mission as their job as a mercenary team this time they have received an S rank mission request. It was going to be another day with a tough mission for the team they have already gotten used to the dangers the different missions they have done in the past it was part of their daily living. This mission however was going to be different for various reasons their opponents were strong and the objective was going to be hard, the money somehow seems to be of little importance. As they were running there was a high tension among the group the atmosphere around has changed so much, it was deadly serious which none of them dare to speak word. Because a member of the team wasn't feeling well something has happened to make her changed into someone so different from her usual self.
The member of the team who has obviously been through a change was none other than Ino. The reason behind the Yamanaka's attitude adjustment was done because of the horrible news she has received by Naruto due to a message he received from Tsunade. The sad news that Sarutobi Asuma and former teacher of team ten was killed in action during a mission, he died in the proper line of duty of every single Konoha ninja. In this world it was very normal for a ninja to die fulfilling his duties for his village death was always part of a ninja it was always following them wherever they go. There was no escape from dying everyone knows that so the most obvious thing to do is move on and continued living for the sake of their comrade and love one, it was different for the bleach blond. After she heard the news of the death of her team teacher she completely changed, she was no longer herself. Ino has become very serious and all about business she didn't make any silly comments, or jokes, not even anything perverted. In fact she rarely said a word at all she talked whenever she felt like it and that was almost never.
The members of the team have become quite worried for her behavior knowing that it wasn't right to change so much in just one week. Her two teammates Sakura and Hinata have become worried sick this person traveling with them wasn't the same girl who is always joking around and acting perverted. It's like she wasn't really their friend Ino someone who has taken her place and was completely different in personality. Her leader was also worried about her but what he knew he couldn't do a thing to make her feel better her teammates felt the same way too. The blond has lost her teacher someone who was close to her just like her other friends from Konoha telling her that everything will be fine was going to be useless, it won't make her feel better but worst. The only thing they could do is to be there for her and give their support to their friend, but it wasn't enough and they knew it the truth was really annoying them. The only thing that could probably make the Yamanaka feel better is if they go after the one responsible for Asuma's death that was part of their mission.
Naruto was feeling grumpy for various reason the first was obviously because of Ino's big changed, the second he was tire for traveling too much. His cerulean eyes turned to the masked kunoichi Yamanaka she hasn't even bothered to looked at any of her friends she was just keeping her eyes on the road ahead. He was the leader of the team and he felt so useless that he couldn't do a thing to make her feel better, the pain she was feeling right now was so horrible. He couldn't understand her but he could still try the only thing in his mind was to help her in any way he could it wasn't just his responsibility as leader but as her friend. His feelings for her probably clouding his judgment making her tell him how she was feeling that he was here for her just like her friends.
Sakura was probably feeling worst than her leader in everything. Her best friend has lost her genin teacher and she hasn't asked for any comfort from anyone she was holding the pain inside. She knew holding in it will make it worst it was better to let it out by talking to her and everyone of course they couldn't understand what she was going through but they can still be there for her when she needed the presence of a friend. It was tearing her apart every time the Yamanaka didn't said a word holding her silence she was hurt she wouldn't let no one in, someone who was very close to her. But this girl next to her wasn't the Yamanaka Ino she has come to know and care about. It was her duty to help her she was thinking the same thing as Naruto.
Hinata was in deep thought mostly because she was thinking about Ino she was also worried sick for the blond. Not to an extent like Naruto and Sakura but enough to not make her sleep sometimes they were supposed to be a team and a team is always there for each other through good times and bad. This situation was no exception it was her responsibility her teammate just like everyone else on the team. It was bothering her that the Yamanaka wasn't saying a word to anyone for a week she didn't wanted any help that was wrong. They are here to help her and she wasn't letting anyone get close to her to try and have a conversation with her, it only made her sad of her behavior because she felt like she was pretty much useless. She hated that because it will remind her of the person she used to be her timid self who used to watch from the sidelines.
Naruto finally had enough they have travel for too long and he knew his team has reached their limit. He could see it by looking at them all three of them was panting showing signs that they were tire. They did need a rest as leader he made the decision clearly as he stopped in his tracks leaving the team to stop with him too. He only hoped that Ino will cooperate with him because she hasn't been acting like a team member lately.
"Why are we stopping?" Ino quickly replied ignoring that she was panting.
"We're taking a break we'd been traveling for too long, drink some water and refill your canteen if you must there's a river east not too far from here" replied the blond jinchurikki.
"We're not there yet" argued the Yamanaka giving a serious glare to her leader.
"Temptress I have spoken please just take a rest, you're tire too."
She felt so proud of herself and wanted to prove him wrong but she couldn't, she was tired and thirsty from traveling so long. She didn't said another word and just walked taking her canteen she drank the water while some of the refreshing liquid left the corner of her mouth. Sakura and Hinata were drinking from their canteens but they were keeping their eyes on their friend they couldn't believe she could change so much in just one week. The pink haired wanted to get closer to the blond but she felt like she was pushing her aside like she has built this impenetrable wall that couldn't let anyone in.
"Shit" the Yamanaka cursed at the water leaving from the corner of her mouth she realized her canteen was empty.
She didn't even look at her teammates" I'm going to refill…."
"Want me to go with you I can help you get to the river?" Sakura gave her a smile.
"Did I ask for your help because I don't remember asking you?" the blond glared at her.
"Temptress I-"
She cut her off" I'm not some helpless baby who needs help just to get to a river…." she replied rudely
"Temptress I have the byakugan I…."
Hinata didn't finish her sentence because the way Ino was glaring at her. She saw her mouth forming a growl but even with her mask on she could see how cold her sky blue eyes were, her look scared her. It felt like she was stabbing with her eyes the glare was enough to froze her in place, she stood in silence she wasn't going to say a word. She was hurt at the treatment her teammate has given her she was trying to be kind in showing her the way to the river she hold the thought of crying, there was no time to shed tears.
Sakura was feeling the same way the way she raised her voice at her just because she was offering her help. It didn't hurt to show kindness to your friends especially if she was someone close to you her words and expression killed her. She felt the painful blow in her heart when she cut her off the pain reminded her when she rejected Naruto with her cold words during the Konoha hospital incident five years ago. It was also similar to the pain she felt when Naruto ignored her and cast her aside when he returned to the village. Like the Hyuga heiress she didn't said another word and promised herself she wasn't going to cry.
Naruto has tightened his fists at the rejection his team members have given to the two masked kunoichis. This behavior was going to affect the team work and the dynamic it was his job as team leader to do something about it. He saw that Ino has already left to the river to refilled her canteen he couldn't let this go on any longer having such a strong bond with the blond has made them this way to always feel concerned whenever someone was troubled by something. To become more sensitive and even the smallest insult can deal a great amount of pain, no he wasn't going to risk that bond they have forged together be broken. He turned his gaze back to the two kunoichis in front of him they were still quiet and hurt for what has happened with the Yamanaka.
"You two get some rest we'll be heading out again soon."
They slowly nodded as he walked pass them he looked at them from the corner of his eye. Hinata has put her hand on Sakura's shoulder as a sign to confront her because by now she was sobbing she has failed to keep her promise not to cry. That image made him growled of course he knew that the pink haired medic was the one feeling worst than the rest of the team. The girl who was her best friend since they were kids has completely changed her personality becoming so cold and distant acting to be lonely, like Sasuke. He quickly erased the last thought heading to the river this wasn't the time or the place to be thinking about the Uchiha and not to remind him of the past.
He reached the river spotting her filling her canteen before drinking in it again she refilled it again and kept on drinking until her thirst was satisfied. He approached her she knew he was there but she ignored him she was in deep thought there was anger in her, she couldn't let it go. Her hatred was greater than she thought it was taking over her and she didn't care there was only way for her to satisfy that hatred, this mission will help her get what she wants. She has looked from the corner of her to see her leader standing next to her she became annoyed he was probably going to give her a lesson why she was acting like such a bitch to her teammates. She didn't had any time for this it was meaningless to scold her when all she has been doing is following her orders in trying to fulfill their mission.
"Temptress we need to talk" replied Naruto calmly.
"You're pissed that I hurt their feelings in some way is that it?" her tone was cold.
"It's not just about that but it's your attitude. If you want to fulfill this mission then I suggest you start treating your teammates right and start acting like a true member of this team" his cerulean eyes were staring at her sky blue orbs.
"You're the one wasting time on the mission by getting some rest maybe you should take your own advice…."
"We have been traveling for a week without any rest and you were thirsty you have also refilled your canteen more than once, we all needed this rest I did the right thing" he somehow felt hurt and angry at her rude comment.
"The right thing will be focusing on the mission and nothing else, weren't we taught at the academy that the mission is everything. I hope you realized how important a mission can be especially when our lives are on the line."
"You don't have to remind me that I know, but the result of the mission can be unsuccessful if your heart is full of hatred. You will get nowhere if you let hatred control you."
"I'm perfectly fine" she glared at him walking passed him" the mission is everything to me I'm just a regular ninja doing what is right for their village" she started walking out.
"But this isn't about the mission is it Temptress?" he didn't looked at her he knew very well why she was acting like this.
She stopped walking never turning back to stare at the blond jinchurikki for a moment there was a lot of pain in her eyes she glared not wanting to shed any tears, she has already done it enough in the past. She resumed her walking leaving Naruto on his own by the river he was hurt because he knew the reason why she was like this he couldn't stop thinking about the recent events that took place one week ago. It has tormented how much pain she was in and the fact that he couldn't do a thing to make her feel better she is still suffering to this day. His cerulean eyes glared at her reaction and the pain she started to feel, he will never forget that day.
'Ino...'
Naruto stood watching Ino as he has told her the truth of the message he has received. That Asuma has been killed during a mission he kept his gaze on her and he didn't like what he was seeing. The Yamanaka was shock like she has just been stabbed by something very sharp her sky blue eyes were watery as she was ready to shed tears. These news were horrible and he already knew her reaction not being pleasant she just found out that her jounin from her genin days is dead she looked like she was in a trance. The sight was enough to break his heart the pain was terrible he hated to feel like this one of his team member was about to feel heartbroken and he could only do so little he felt so useless he kept his hands on her shoulders. It was up to him to make her feel better and tried to get rid of the pain she was feeling but he doubt it he couldn't be the cure to ease the pain she was feeling right now.
"What…..what do you mean?" she was still too shocked to believe the tragic news she just heard.
Naruto started again but he felt like he didn't wanted to repeat himself again because it will hurt the Yamanaka even more" what I said Ino….I got a message from granny reporting Asuma and Chouji's mission and Asuma died during the mission."
"No that can't be….that can't be possible" tears have formed in her eyes.
"I'm sorry…."
"Please Naruto tell me that this is all one sick joke right?" her tears started falling.
"I'm not it's true I'm really sorry Ino."
"No…..it's not true it can't be Asuma sensei can't be dead!"
The blond jinchurikki hold her tight with his arms" it's okay I'm here just let it all out, as your friend and your leader it's my responsibility to be your pillar of strength. I will do whatever I can to heal your pain so it's all right to cry."
The blond kunoichi started sobbing" no Asuma sensei Kami no please this must be some horrible nightmare please Naruto I want to wake up right now no!"
He finally embraced her giving her all his strength and comfort in the world hoping he will make her feel better. She accepted his kind gesture and buried her head in his right shoulder her sobbing got worst the pain she was feeling was unbearable. Losing one of your closest people it's a horrible pain this was the first time she was experienced and she wanted it to end he hold her tight like he wanted to shield her from the immense pain she was feeling but it was futile. Her cries got worst increasing in volume the pain in her heart grew realizing it was true accepting the cruel truth that the Sarutobi was gone it was heard throughout the safe house. The door to the room opened Sakura and Hinata entered hearing their friend's cries they were already worried sick because whatever it was it wasn't any good. Sakura was worried even more seeing the Yamanaka in her leader's arms sobbing it could only mean bad news or worst.
"What's wrong?" she was afraid to ask.
"We heard Ino-san crying all the way to our rooms" Hinata replied worried too.
Naruto slowly and sadly broke the embrace with the heart broken blond kunoichi facing the rest of the team might as well tell them the news already" I got a message from granny she told me a recent mission report and….Asuma was killed in that mission."
He saw the shocking expressions in their faces now they understood why Ino was such an emotional wreck. Sakura immediately went to her and gave her another comforting hug she could tell how much pain she was in while the Yamanaka accepted the embrace she needed this so much even if it wasn't helping at all. This was the only thing she could do to one of her closest friends but she wanted to do more she was feeling the same way as Naruto. Both wanted to end the pain to their precious people and they felt like they were feeling her pain, they did the only thing they could do for the blond is be there for her.
"It's all right Ino I'm here" replied Sakura.
"No Asuma sensei….." she resumed her sobbing.
Hinata tried not to shed tears but some escaped she was thinking about her friend and someone else her jounin teacher" Kurenai sensei must be feeling terrible and Miyaki she's going to grow up without a father."
Once was done hugging the Yamanaka Hinata followed by embracing her friend Ino of course accepted the hug she really needed it. It wasn't enough but the Hyuga heiress gave her own support and comfort to the blond kunoichi she wasn't alone she had friend that will take care of her when she needed them the most. Naruto couldn't help but give a small smile seeing the scenery it proves how close the three kunoichis have become while traveling with him their bond was strong they have become the best of friends. He noticed that Sakura was still devastated by the news and by Ino's reaction these were the time when she needed her friends a lot. Sakura was doing her best to comfort her friend but putting her hand on her shoulder or Hinata's hug will make her feel better while Naruto was watching from the side lines.
Naruto was angry at himself because he felt so powerless to do anything at all to help the Yamanaka. He was the leader of the team he should do something to stop her pain it made him questioned if he was a good leader after all. He started having doubts of his leadership skills for a while that maybe he asked for more than he could bargain for, that he couldn't be the great leader the kunoichis were expecting to be. He was getting irritated and frustrated because of this and Asuma's death especially since he knew why the Sarutobi was killed in that mission, he knew who was responsible. He felt like this whole thing was his fault and that Ino should be unleashing her anger on him instead of the people involved in the killing his cerulean eyes glared at the group that did this. He was going to make sure they paid for this for the blond kunoichi who was suffering right now he interrupted his train of thought seeing that the Yamanaka has calmed down a little.
"How are you feeling now Ino?" asked Sakura while wiping a tear from her right eye.
"I will be okay….I would like to be alone" her replied was in a whisper.
"We understand…."
"Ino-san why don't you take a shower it might help you relax a little?" Hinata said.
"I agree take a shower and cool off this will help you get the alone time you want" said Naruto.
She slowly nodded as she left Naruto's room heading to the bathroom looks like she has agreed with their friends' request. It was painful for the three of them to see her like this but the only thing they could do is give her some space so she can try to calm down and move on by the sad news. They knew it will take some time for her to get over her former sensei's death she might try to get over it but the pain will still be there. Hinata saw Sakura's expression seeing she was hurt by this she was probably feeling worst than Naruto and herself she went to the pink haired medic's side.
"Sakura-san….?"
"I'm fine Hinata its Ino the one who needs our support the most."
The Hyuga heiress nodded" I know let's do our best to help her."
"It's late you guys should go back to sleep, I will tell you about Asuma's mission in the morning" said Naruto.
"And Ino?" the pink haired kunoichi replied.
"I will tell her after she's done with her shower I'm sure she's going to ask me about it immediately" he gave a sigh.
"All right…."
"Goodnight Naruto-kun" Hinata said leaving the room with Sakura.
"Yeah goodnight…."
His eyes were staring at nowhere in particular he was in deep thought on that day. He thought the shower will help Ino get better or calm down but he was wrong it happened so fast how she changed from a complete different person after she finished her shower. He lowered his gaze the sadness was clearly reflected in his eyes he hasn't been able to help her he was unable to stop her from making the choice she has made. It was something that scared him for someone like her to change so quickly it shocked him, it even scared him. She was no longer the Ino he has come to know and care very much even having feelings for her, he thought that maybe he was to blame for her change of heart.
Naruto was seated on the bed of his room still thinking with what happened after Ino found out of the horrible news about Asuma. A shower won't be enough to help her but it will give her the alone time she needs, by now Sakura and Hinata were already asleep. He heard a knock on his door he knew it was Ino he didn't said a word but the door opened after one knock, his eyes were on the blond kunoichi. He was alarmed staring at her he felt a shiver on his spine her expression was different somehow it didn't hold the same spark the Yamanaka has always had. It's like she was no longer the same person anymore she was staring at him with an emotionless look her sky blue eyes were empty, they seemed to be cold. It scared him was this really the same girl who was always cheery, funny and strong in battle.
'I knew Asuma's death was going to affect her but not like this, I wasn't hoping the shower will help her but still….Ino.'
"How are you feeling Ino?" he knew she was feeling worst.
"You know who did it….?"
"What?"
"You know who is responsible for Asuma sensei's death right?" the Yamanaka raised her voice showing cold eyes.
"I….yes I do."
"Tell me."
"I am planning in telling you it all started with the mission granny gave him. Scouts from Konoha reported that members of Akatsuki were spotted at the border of the fire country."
"Akatsuki?" of course she remembers the criminal organization that is after the jinchurikki, after Naruto.
The blond jinchurikki nodded" granny assigned Asuma, Chouji, Kotetsu and Izumo to intercept the two members of the organization, you already know where I'm going with this….?"
The Yamanaka glared tightening her fists" they did it….Akatsuki killed Asuma sensei those bastards but why?"
"Chouji was wounded but he's life is in no danger, Kotetsu and Izumo only suffered minor injuries. They probably came after them because they were invading enemy territory they are S rank missing nins. If Akatsuki came to fire country then that means they were probably after me, I'm the only jinchurikki from Konoha."
"So this is your fault is that it?" she looked at him not in the least happy.
"If you put it that way then yes Ino Akatsuki are after me and because of that Asuma got killed. I won't hold it against you if you choose to blame me for his death. I will understand if you want to hate me" right now this was the only way to help her pain if it will relief her anger at the ones responsible for killing her former sensei, to let her hate him.
The blond kunoichi stood staring at him in deep thought for a moment she felt happy that he was willing to make himself the one to blame so she can hate him for Asuma's death. She thought it was selfless of him he was probably doing in it to help her ease her pain but it wasn't enough her anger has increased once she found out that Akatsuki was involved in the Sarutobi's murder. Hatred and the powerful urge to have revenge has entered her and right now the reason why the criminal organization came to fire country was standing right in front of her, her leader, friend and person she held deep feelings. She erased any of those feelings for him and chose to unleash her hatred on him he was to blame for her teacher's death so he deserved to be hated by her. She walked towards the whiskered blond with an unreadable expression he couldn't tell if she was angry or said, he knew she wasn't happy.
Naruto didn't saw it coming when Ino slapped him hard on his left chees he was shocked. He rubbed the side of his face when she has hit him the red mark of her had was very visible he finally took a look at her face. Her eyes were colder and the glare she was giving him was enough to make him take a step back, yes he was scared all right. He had volunteered so the blond kunoichi blames him and hate him for Asuma's death in a way to relief her anger he started thinking he has a made a big mistake. He has never seen so much anger in someone's eyes since Sasuke it was her hatred pushing her towards a new goal, it was revenge. He remained quiet hurt by the painful slap given by the Yamanaka it was killing that she obviously hated him now, but he remained hiding his pain and the possibility of heart break.
"I'm glad you feel that way because you're right it's your entire fault that Asuma sensei died. He wasn't Akatsuki's target you were and he paid the prize with his life all because of you!" a small tear made its way from her right eye.
"I know…." He whispered loud enough for her to hear his hand was still touching his hurt cheeks because of her slap.
"I hope you're planning in fixing your mistake although you can't fix it completely Asuma sensei is gone already but you can lead me to Akatsuki, I'm not going to stand here and do nothing while they are still out there."
"You want revenge?" he looked at her feeling terrible.
"That's the only thing I have left avenge Asuma sensei, and you will help me you must take responsibility for the consequences of your actions" Ino kept her cold glare at him.
"I will Ino I promise, in fact I think I have a mission that we could end up running to Akatsuki it's an S rank mission and the client is the Raikage…."
"So we're going to Kumo Akatsuki are going after the jinchurikki of hidden cloud fine then let's go. It will be even better if the one responsible for killing Asuma sensei will show up there."
"I think they will, get some rest Ino the journey to lighting country will be long."
"I know that don't order me around" she replied rudely with a hint of venom in her voice she finally left his room.
'Ino what has happened to you….?' Naruto lowered his gaze feeling sorry for the blond kunoichi, for the pain he has caused her.
He sighed remembering that day like it was a bad nightmare that has come true she hated him for what happened to Asuma. He felt so guilty because it was his fault the Sarutobi died so he didn't blame the Yamanaka for her hatred on him and the criminal organization, he deserves it. His cerulean eyes glared hard feeling so angry at Akatsuki killing someone that has nothing to do with this they were after jinchurikki they shouldn't even been killing people aside from their goal to capture demon containers. He knew that as long as ninjas refuse and choose to protect the jinchurikki they will be getting in their way and they will get rid at anyone who becomes an obstacle in their goal. He left the river heading back to his team they were going to resume their journey to Kumo with keeping his thoughts on the organization. He was going to make sure that Ino fulfils her revenge he will help her no matter what.
'They are going to pay….Akatsuki has gone too far this time.'
(Scene change)
(Location: shrine temple Uchiha clan district Konoha hidden leaf village fire country territory)
Itachi has lighted over four hundred candles inside of the temple, each candle represent a fallen member of the Uchiha clan. He has done this a couple of times as a sign to pay respects to them it wasn't enough to visit their graves. Once all the candles were lighted he got seated on his knees and gave a silent prayer to his fallen brethren who were killed by his own hand on that dark night. His first prayer went to his parents Fugaku and Mikoto he hoped they will be doing their eternal rest on the other side of paradise known as heaven. Even if Fugaku rebelled against Konoha choosing revenge just like their past leader Madara did he still loved him and hoped for the best. His prayer has been interrupted when he sensed that he was being watched although he kept his focus on hi praying for now he will ignore the unknown entity. He opened his onyx eyes from the corner of his eye he was gazing behind the shrine in a couple of trees he knew he wasn't alone anymore.
In one of the trees stood a dark figure the mysterious stranger was wearing a long brown garb with a hood, he was wearing an ANBU mask. He was watching over the older Uchiha as he was resuming his praying as he was told to keep an eye on him and on whatever other activities he does. He kept his distance far from him so that he wouldn't get spotted, unaware that he has failed on that part. He hasn't realized that behind him stood a crow with sharingan eyes staring down at him while back at the shrine Itachi already knew of the stranger's presence. He was doing a hand seal while keeping his eyes closed he figured out who was the person watching him and decided to ignore it. It seems he was well aware who was watching him and he was expecting them he resumed his praying for a couple of minutes before he got up and left the temple.
The masked member of ROOT vanished once the Uchiha was gone unknown to the two of them there was a third entity watching. From the nearby bushes stood a snake that watched everything it was actually a technique based on using an animal as a telescope and see whatever the animal was looking, in this case the snake. The person using the snake as a telescope was Anko who was standing on the rooftop of the shrine she has seen everything and she didn't like it one bit she knew she had a mission. She got up from the roof jumping back to the ground, she made a hand seal making the snake vanished she has to report back.
'Looks like Hokage-sama were right all along he is keeping tabs on Itachi….'
She made a hand seal before she vanished from sight teleporting from the shrine temple.
(Scene change time skip)
(Location: fire tower Konoha)
Tsunade has reunited with Shizune, Ibiki and Shikaku to one of the rooms of the tower, the room itself was special. It had a special seal placed all over the room including doors preventing anyone from listening to the conversation. There were also windows and the ceiling was built with the purpose that no one gets the chance to spy and listen to any type of conversation. The room was sound proof and infiltration proof no one from outside won't be able to hear a thing there was a reason for the blond Hokage to choose such place. She needed to make sure that no one from ROOT comes and dares to listen to their upcoming conversation because they topic was confidential, classified in other words. They were waiting for one last person to show up so they can begin to discuss the matter at hand.
Shikaku stood quiet he knew why the Hokage summoned him, he was here as a representative of the council. He was among those she trusted the most unlike the elders and especially the war hawk Danzo he didn't had a problem with it. He was always glad to help the slug sanin he does respect strong woman like the blond Hokage, he was willing to help her on anything although it was going to be troublesome this wasn't the time or the place to act lazy.
Ibiki stood quiet waiting for the last member to arrive he will talk once she gets here. Everything was up to her if the situation was as serious as the Hokage believes so he didn't have a problem he may be serious and all about business, but he does trusts his comrades. Inoichi probably doesn't believe Anko can pull it off but he does he has known the snake mistress for a while and she's one of the best in the ANBU interrogation corps she has made people feared her when she got to business she was a dangerous poisonous snake wanting to spread her deadly poison to her preys. There wasn't anyone like her she has also done a lot of dangerous missions before and has come back alive and well she has served true to her rank as a leaf ninja.
Finally in a cloud of smoke Anko appeared arriving in the middle of the room making the tension to be lifted. Ibiki didn't reacted, Inoichi felt calmer and Shizune smiled.
Tsunade nodded" you were a little late Anko."
"It's not easy to spy on someone like Itachi without getting notice but it is as you say, Danzo is keeping an eye on him."
"We were right all along" Ibiki replied.
"He's going to try and approach Itachi" Inoichi said.
"Oh he won't" replied the slug sanin" he won't try something so reckless it's not his style."
"Why not?" asked Shizune.
The busty blond gave a confident grin" because he knows I'm watching him as long as I have my eye on him he won't try anything that might risk getting him caught in any act that will reflect treachery against the village. Like a hawk taking his time to take his prey he's going to wait for the right moment, I still don't know what Danzo could want from Itachi though?"
"Maybe it has to do with Sasuke" Shizune said.
"Maybe but for now we will keep this a secret from everyone else, Shikaku Inoichi you two know this as representative of the council. In case the word goes about this operation I'm counting on both of you to back me up when the time comes."
"Of course Tsunade-sama" Shikaku replied.
"No problem we know Danzo has always been suspicious for a long time" said Inoichi.
"Especially when he still has his organization ROOT when the third made the order for them to be disbanded" Ibiki added.
"What about the rest of the elder?" asked Shizune.
"I don't think Homura and Koharu know about his ulterior motives, this has to be keep classified so they can't know."
"Another thing will Kushina be all right?" asked Shikaku.
"Kushina?" Anko was puzzled remembering the name' the long red head what does she has to do with this….?'
"We will discuss that matter later but for now you're all dismissed" Tsunade knew she couldn't reveal information on her.
They left the office returning to their perspective duties while Anko was in deep thought and she wasn't happy. She wanted to know about Kushina why Danzo would go after her was she in some kind of danger too he was only interested in Itachi perhaps there was more to the red head than meets the eye. Then again she had a feeling like she has seen her before, she was sort of familiar. She does know she and itachi are friends probably close friends, she didn't know why she felt better when she found out that he wasn't really engage to the red haired woman. She followed the other ninjas out of the office before she noticed Tsunade staring at her.
"Not you Anko I need to speak with you."
She nodded Shizune has left closing the door of the room behind her. It was obviously about her mission with the older Uchiha an important matter that the blond Hokage needed to talk her in private. The mission was important to her not just to the Hokage after finding out the truth of Itachi she wasn't going to let someone like the war hawk to manipulate him to his will like he was some mere tool to kill. One thing about the snake mistress she was very loyal to her friends and companions she wasn't like a certain snake who betrayed the village and gave her a cruse mark as a farewell gift.
"You know how important this assignment is?"
"I do leave it to me I will keep an eye on Itachi."
"Danzo might carefully pick his time but he might approach him sooner than we think, this is why Anko I want you to try and spend as much time as you can with him are we clear?"
"Now you're basically asking me for me to live in his place" the snake mistress gave a grin of course she didn't mind living with the older Uchiha under the same roof.
"You know what I mean don't play smart ass with me, stay with Itachi and follow his lead just pretend that you're enjoying his company."
"Pretend….?" Her eyes softened but she was mainly in deep thought.
Tsunade smirked" well you don't have to pretend if you're that interested in him this mission is the chance that you've been waiting for to know him better. He's going to be your partner you will have plenty of time with him."
Anko grinned" will do Hokage-sama at the same time I will watch over him, I won't let Danzo approach him you can count on me."
"I know I can that will be all you're dismissed."
"Hokage-sama?" she started.
"Yes?"
The snake mistress paused a bit she wanted to know about a certain red head" about what Inoichi said, you know about Kushina is she in some kind of danger like Itachi?"
The busty Hokage was in deep thought" you don't have to worry about that Kushina is all right she can take care of herself, she's in no danger."
She wanted to hear more but she nodded" I see then I will take my leave…."
The slug sanin nodded gazing at the woman who left the room' that old hawk won't try to kill Kushina a second time because this time I have my eyes on him. That and Kushina is not going go down so easily….'
(Scene change)
Kushina was doing another cleaning to her new bought apartment working at Ichiraku's has finally paid off. Teuchi has become fascinated with her speed to deliver the ramen to other places customers all over Konoha were very pleased of the fast service giving the ramen restaurant a mighty payment. Even if she was happy working there she couldn't helped but feel bad for Teuchi's daughter Ayane she was still sick and couldn't come to work she felt like it wasn't right to be taking her place, although the ramen cook didn't had a problem at all. She was cleaning her place her way of course which it was using the shadow clone jutsu so she can clean it a lot faster than usual. One clone was sweeping the floor, other was taking the trash, another was doing the dishes and the real red head was cooking. She always did a whole lot faster and it was the best way to do chores around a house, she was almost done with today's suffer.
She paused her cooking for a moment but she resumed she has noticed something outside. On the window to her right facing the hallway she there was someone out there watching her, she pretended like she hasn't notice. It was someone she didn't know it made her eyes glared giving her an idea of who could be spying on her she knew all about ROOT from Tsunade the organization that Danzo founded a while back. No doubt a member of ROOT was watching her meaning Danzo was keeping an eye on her the thought made her angry, she wasn't happy in the least. It was enough that he tried to get rid of her when she was weakened from giving birth to Naruto now he dare to have her watch like some kind of prisoner. She could still remember the day she met him since their last encounter at the hospital, it was the day she returned to Konoha after traveling with Jiraiya and Itachi.
'Looks like Danzo didn't paid attention to my warning….'
Kushina was standing in the council chamber she was in the middle of the long table that is composed of the members of the leaf council. Everyone was present from the clan heads to the elders and they were very pleased to have the Uzumaki back in the village. They have recently had their meeting and they were about to end it while everyone was smiling, almost everyone. Kushina was looking at everyone with a smile and she was trying so hard not to gaze at the old war hawk who was obviously eyeing her like the rest of the council members. Hatred was burning in her heart how she wanted to kill him he was the cause of her being absent to take care of her son and because of that he lived a lonely childhood filled with hatred and suffering. Tsunade was present smiling too everyone from the high ranks of the village wanted to give her a great welcome back, they all knew she was Minato's wife as well as Naruto's mother.
Homura got up from his seat along with Koharu" then its settles Uzumaki Kushina we welcome you back to the hidden leaf village via part of the alliance with the hidden whirlpool village."
"Therefore we want you to live here since whirlpool is no more, you will be treated like one of us" replied Koharu.
"It's good to have you back Kushina" Shikaku said.
"Thank you everyone I'm sure you're all glad to see me again."
'Well not everyone' she looked at Danzo.
"Are there any objections with Kushina staying in the village?" asked Homura.
Kushina kept her eyes on Danzo just in case he would say something but he didn't, the other members have gotten up from their seats finishing the reunion.
"Then this meeting is over dismissed."
Each of the members left the chamber and Danzo didn't bothered giving a glance at the red haired woman he was the first person to leave. The clan heads decided to stay a little to give their greetings to her among them Shikaku, Inoichi, Chouza and Tsume. They all have met her while she was staying here and before she secretly married Minato, she has made acquaintances with them. They have also become friends with her they all saw her as a charismatic and funny person with a big appetite for ramen, it was part of her gift to make friends so quickly.
"Welcome back to Konoha Kushina" said Inoichi.
"Thank you."
"Welcome back" Chouza said.
"Thanks glad to be back."
"Konoha wasn't the same without you" replied Shikaku.
"I know."
"I'm so happy to see that you're alive after all this time" said Tsume.
"Oh come on stop it already I am happy to be back" by now her face was resembling her hair from the embarrassment.
"Get used to it Kushina everyone is happy to see you again" Tsunade said smiling at the reunion.
The red head gave her grin happy to be here' I know it's great to be back, it's too bad Danzo doesn't think so….'
Danzo was walking the halls of the fire tower he was on his way to his chambers. He stopped when he saw Kushina standing before him he was well aware that this could possibly turn into a fight, just by looking at her expression. She was smiling but it was a fake smile deep inside she was angry filled with rage feeling like killing him her blue eyes was reflecting her hatred towards the war hawk. However he remained calm he knew she couldn't attack him because she will be in big trouble due to his status as a member of the elder council and supervisor of the village's military branch division. He didn't show any fear even if he was staring at a former ANBU captain, jounin and kage from whirlpool he didn't knew the meaning of the word fear.
"Danzo….?" Kushina started her eyes glaring daggers at him.
"You should watch your manners Kushina, when addressing someone like me it is best to see me in person. Not as a shadow clone."
"You could tell I'm sorry that I can't join you personally I'm busy catching up to old times with my friends. So I decided to send a shadow clone in my place to talk about old times with you."
"It seems you have come to the wrong person I don't share such none sense" the war hawk replied in a rude tone.
"Don't feel that way the last time we meet was at the Konoha hospital, you told me my son died due to the sealing of the nine tails you also tried to have me killed. I will never forget that night."
"You have come to me because you have a feeling of revenge?"
'You have no idea you bastard….'
She gave another fake smile" I'm not stupid attacking you will have me executed for treason, as a surviving member of the Uzumaki clan I will not jeopardize the alliance between whirlpool and the leaf made years ago."
"Then you have come to satisfy your anger on me through words you're wasting your time. This is why emotions are none sense they make people weak and victims of fear and hatred. Emotions will always breed hatred and that hatred will lead to war, emotions are nothing but an illusion that must be eradicated from this world for good."
"Emotions makes us human!" she shouted finally letting some of her anger" that's the problem with people like you who only view ninjas as emotionless killing tools."
"Ninjas are emotionless killing tools only to serve their leader, they fight and kill for the sake of their village this is pure logic I'm simply following it."
She dropped her smile glaring at him" I don't want to hear your bullshit logic you think I don't know you. You're only interested in becoming Hokage so you could rule Konoha with an iron fist turning this village into a military government regime. You want to brainwash every ninja in this village and turn them into your emotionless killing puppets I won't let you."
"I'm not going to let you over power Tsunade from the Hokage seat or whatever it is you're planning. I know you want me dead so I will tell you only once, don't try to spy on me so you can have the chance. I am grateful that Hiruzen took the place as third Hokage because of him Naruto was raise as a human not as a weapon for war."
Danzo frowned at her comment finding it insulting" he's a jinchurikki, jinchurikki are weapons for war."
"He's a human carrying a heavy burden that cost him a happy childhood he's a hero for keeping the fox sealed. He was a hero since he was given that burden that's what his father wanted."
"Are you done?" the war hawk sounded bore" I don't want to hear your emotional rambling I would like to return to my chambers and read a good book."
Kushina glared at him her blue eyes were cold she didn't replied because she was too angry with him. When he didn't received a reply Danzo started walking away he passed her by without looking at her he was starting to get far away from her view.
"Danzo….?"
The mummified man turned to her" I would like to go now I'm done with you…."
"Listen to me well, I will never forgive you. You took from me the greatest treasure of all."
She glared at him with a killing intent" the gift of a mother raising her own child."
POOF!
Kushina continued doing her chores in deep thought she has learned to control her anger, killing Danzo wasn't the answer. She looked around her clones were still busy doing their chores she was the only one with the doubt that the war hawk was up to something and the worst of it her son was probably involve in his scheme. Thinking about it too much wasn't doing any good to her she shrugged the thought aside and resumed her cooking today was just another day for her in the village, luckily she won't have to see his face again. But as a mother she had a duty to protect her son from harm even if he hasn't gotten strong to take care of himself she will protect him no matter what, he wasn't a weapon but a human being her son.
'I swear I will not let him get to Naruto, he will die before laying a hand on him….'
(Scene change time skip)
(Location: main gate Kumo hidden cloud village lighting country territory)
After traveling endlessly for weeks the Kitsune team has finally arrived at the hidden cloud village. As they walked the main gate of Kumo came to view they were all feeling so relief to have finally arrive at their destination. However the journey has wear them all out meaning that they were too tire, a rest was recommended before resuming their mission everyone will agreed with exception of Ino, although she was exhausted she wanted to continued the mission no matter what. Soon the rest of the team was gazing at the village in awe it was huge and most of the buildings were in circular to square shape the sight was breathtaking and it wasn't because they had to climb a very high mountain. All of them were very tired but their mission was more important than taking a rest. Naruto was the only one who didn't reacted to the village since he has been here before the kunoichis took their time staring at the village.
Sakura kept looking everywhere her jade eyes were on every single building it was truly an impressive sight, the location of the village was enough. Tsunade has told her as well as reading from history books that she has read from the Konoha library about the five main hidden villages that Kumo was the village located at the top of the world although it was just a figure speech. The village is very high in the sky that it was surrounded by clouds but not too exaggerated to be on top of the world itself. History books say that Kumo was founded with the purpose to watch over the rest of lighting country from their location as guardians of the territory to protect the people from their enemies. She was fascinated with the view she kept on sightseeing looking forward to enjoying her stay.
Ino although she was impressed with the sight she pretended like it didn't matter. She was only focusing on the mission and her revenge on Akatsuki but right it was hard to walk. She was so tired from climbing the high mountain in order to get to the village a nice meal and a bath was the only answer, then she can resume in avenging her teacher. Nothing or no one was going to stop her she has promised herself to avenge him no matter what, whatever it takes. Being with her leader and team is the quickest way to find the members of the organization responsible for the death of the Sarutobi, for now.
Hinata was tired too she panted and she was amazed at the sight, however she couldn't help but feel nervous. Being in Kumo was giving her some bad vibes this was after all, the same village responsible for kidnapping her when she was only six she was asleep when it took place at the Hyuga compound. They were obviously trying to get their hands on the clan's bloodline the byakugan she has heard from the hidden cloud village back then they were looking for powerful tools or man power to increase their military strength, they already possessed a couple of jinchurikkis. It scared her to be in a village that was responsible for the Hyuga clan to take the decision in having her uncle Hizashi to become a sacrifice replacing her father Hiashi because he was his twin brother, for that she will always have some anger towards the cloud village.
The team has taken their canteen getting a quick drink of water after climbing the high mountain. Sakura felt silly she was so caught up gazing at the village that she forgot that she was dead tire like the rest of the team. After satisfying their thirst they were greeted by the guards from the main gate they were obviously Kumo ninjas wearing their standard cloud nin chunin uniform. Both men smiled seeing the mask mercenary they have already meet him before during his last stay in the village most of the villagers have treated him with high regards.
"Welcome back to Kumo Kitsune-sama."
The whiskered blond smiled" it's good to be back it's been a while since I came to cloud."
"I will take these three are the famous team Kitsune Flash we have heard of?" the other chunin asked looking at the mask kunoichis.
"That's right these are the strongest kunoichi in the world so be warn they might attack you when you less expected…."
He got between the two guards" they might even devour your souls if you look straight in their eyes."
The chunin guards turned pale even if they were friendly with the mask mercenary they still believe the devour soul rumor and after hearing this, they made a mental note not to look at the kunoichi's faces. Sakura and Hinata sweat dropped at their leader's comment they have heard his whisper to the two guards and they were not happy, they were pretty much annoyed. As for Ino she didn't said a word she ignored the silly comment and just turned her back acting all emo she didn't wanted to hear this none sense.
Naruto chuckle at their reactions' they still believe that even today….'
"That's not funny Kitsune-sama" Sakura gave a frown.
"Why does he have to say that?" Hinata whispered to her teammate.
"I know and he's the one complaining that people are still bothering him with "the devour their souls" thing either he wants them to continue spreading the rumor, or not."
The Hyuga heiress nodded in full agreement with her friend remembering all the times the blond jinchurikki has whined about the rumor that he devour human souls, putting the rumor on his team wasn't pleasant either. He always reacted like he didn't like it but lately he looked like he didn't at all so maybe he didn't bothered that people will fear him. Or maybe he just didn't care anymore and decided to let it slide he will joke about the rumor to others.
He laughed staring at them" come on guys lighten up I was just kidding, they don't devour souls but they are very tough don't mess with them though."
One of the Kumo chunins chuckle nervously" right you were kidding…."
The other sweat dropped" Kitsune-sam you sure can have a strange sense of humor."
'He sure does' thought Sakura with a sweat dropped.
"I wish we have come here to visit but unfortunately we're here for business, I'm here because I accepted the mission the Raikage has requested for me."
"Yes Raikage-sama has requested for your services once again."
"He is expecting you we will send him a message requesting an audience with him."
"Thanks."
"In the mean time why don't you and your team take a rest at one of our inns all charges will be pay by Raikage-sama?"
"That's great we could use a nice rest" Sakura sighed in relief.
"I know especially after it took us hours to climb that mountain to get here" said the whiskered blond.
The two cloud chunins gasped hearing that and they were also confused, it was no wonder why they were so exhausted.
"You actually climbed the sacred mountain to get here?"
"Yeah it was tough."
'A pain in the ass more like it' thought Ino annoyed remembering how hard it was.
One of them blink" but Kitsune-sama didn't you took the sky train?"
"Sky train….?" The blond jinchurikki blinked in surprise while the three kunoichis sweat dropped.
"Yes it's the special transportation that we have available to travel to Kumo everyone buys a ticket for a ride all kinds of people from merchants, builders and our ninjas take it every day."
Naruto's jaw hit the ground" what?"
He gave them a mean comical expression" are you telling me that all this time there was transportation to get to Kumo all along?"
"Of course we have transportation were you expecting that everyone that visit our village will climb the sacred mountain?"
Sakura, Hinata and Naruto ended up face faulting while Ino was still ignoring the needless chatter becoming an emo girl.
'You got to be kidding!' Sakura was really annoyed.
'It was so tough I thought we were going to die' thought Hinata.
The blond jinchurikki got up feeling annoyed" why wasn't I told of this the last time I was here?"
"Pardon me Kitsune-sama but we thought Yugito-sama told you."
He frowned thinking of the blond kunoichi" no she didn't, I have to climb that mountain when I came here the last time!"
"Unbelievable you have climbed the sacred not once but twice you truly are a living legend" one of the chunin guards had stars in his eyes he was impressed by his performance.
"Don't flatter me I can't believe all this time there was transportation to get here and I did it the hard way" he sighed.
"It was harder for us" replied the pink haired medic.
One of them chuckle" but anyway Kitsune-sama you and your team go on ahead and rest at the inn, you have already been there it's the sleepy cloud inn."
"Right"
"We will notify you when Raikage-sama will accept the audience with you."
"Thanks let's get going team."
"Welcome again to Kumo."
They team entered the main gate walking into the village they have finally set foot inside. The kunoichis gazed at the structure of the village along with the many people passing by it was similar to Konoha. There were merchants trying to sell their goods, others were running their restaurants. The main street featured a lot of houses there was a large amount of the population in the village, but it didn't compared to the population at the leaf. The atmosphere of the hidden cloud village seems to be calm and enjoyable it felt like their home village even if it wasn't the same, it didn't had that feeling along that their families and friends weren't here. The place brought memories to Naruto from the last time he was here as the solo Kitsune Flash, some of them he wasn't proud of. He remembered flirting with a lot of the female villagers and even Kumo kunoichis. He sighed mentally gazing at the three members of his team he didn't wanted to be reminded of the kind of person he used to be.
'I really want to live so it will be best not to say a word to them about my visit with the ladies in this village….'
"Not bad it's a nice village" Sakura said looking around.
"Kitsune-kun you've been here before?" asked Hinata.
"Yeah a while back once I earned a reputation, I got a mission request from the Raikage like right now."
"Which you failed miserably in apprehending Akatsuki" Ino replied in a cold tone it was because of his failure that the Akatsuki that killed Asuma were still alive.
Naruto stopped walking after hearing those harsh words from the Yamanaka. He felt his heart breaking feeling horrible pain, he was hurting. The pain it was similar to the one he felt when Sakura rejected him five years ago when he brought Sasuke back to Konoha, he thought he will never feel that kind of pain ever again. He was very wrong as usual no tears were shed he kept the pain inside and he will be the only one to get hurt, after all he deserved to be hated by the blond kunoichi.
Hinata was shocked never thought that her teammate will say such cold comment to her leader. She knew it must have hurt him it wasn't right to take the blame on someone who has been trying to help her and support her all the way, even in this mission that meant a lot to Ino. But Naruto didn't deserved to be hated by her the pain of losing a former teacher was truly deep she didn't understand it well but she was aware how horrible must be. She thought about Kurenai how she must be feeling after losing her lover and the father of her child one thing for sure taking her hatred on some wasn't the answer. Especially if that person was someone very precious to her and the team that was how she felt of the situation.
"Temptress!" Sakura shouted scolding the platinum blond she was obviously upset for her comment.
The mask mercenary stopped her" it's all right Huntress Temptress was just stating the truth."
"No that is not true!" she looked at him with pleading eyes she was defending him and trying to protect him from getting his feelings hurt.
"His failure caused the death of Asuma sensei it's that simple" the Yamanaka said in her cold tone.
Sakura was starting to lose her temper with the behavior of her teammate. Yes she knew the death of her former teacher was hurting her a lot but enough is enough putting the blame on someone else and wasting your hate on him was not the answer, it was wrong. Couldn't she understand that she was hurting Naruto a lot by doing that every outburst or comment she said hating him was breaking his heart. However it annoyed her that the blond jinchurikki was letting get hurt by the blond on purpose like he deserve it when it wasn't true why did he has to be so kind hearted that he was willing to get hated by another person just to make him feel better in lessening her hatred. She felt his hand on her shoulder reassuring that everything is fine but she knew it was not right the pain he was receiving was wrong she knew it, Hinata knew it and even Naruto himself knows it as well.
He gave a fake smile which Sakura and Hinata noticed he was hiding the pain" come on team let's get going we do want to get to the inn and get some rest before we have the audience with the Raikage."
'Naruto-kun' the Hyuga heiress looked down feeling bad for him.
They followed their leader deeper into the streets while Sakura gazed over at Ino. The Yamanaka hasn't reacted to his fake smile it's like she didn't care that he was hurt, that his heart was probably crushed into millions of pieces. Her expression was unreadable there was no sign of guilt or sorrow in it she wasn't the same person anymore she didn't even thought in crying. She took a glance at Hinata and she was probably feeling the same way about the blond kunoichi's behavior it was hurting both of them because Naruto and Ino were their friends, their precious people seeing friends hurting each other hurts them the most.
(Scene change)
The sleepy cloud inn was one of Kumo's most expensive and luscious places in the village. People with lots of income like powerful merchants, ninjas and even feudal lords have spent a day in the famous inn. Today it was Kitsune Flash's turn to have a nice pleasant stay in the inn in addition with his team who were pretty much exhausted after very idiotic climbing the sacred mountain to reach the cloud village when there was easy available transportation, it made them feel very stupid. The kunoichis were in awe staring at the room they have rented for the day although they were going to take separate room until they were surprised that the room the Raikage made for his guests was the feudal suite. A room that has four rooms with two bathrooms, a Jacuzzi, a sauna and even a tavern basically like the title says it's a room design for a feudal lord. It was probably going to be the best stay in their entire lives after a long journey they have earned a well deserve rest.
Sakura and Hinata didn't waste time as they were the first to try out the Jacuzzi. Both kunoichis have stripped off their uniform and lay their naked bodies into the hot bubbling bath giving a sigh of pure relaxation their bodies immediately tensed down at the wonderful bath. They could feel their muscles relaxing following the wonderful bath they felt like they were in heaven they stood quiet relaxing the Jacuzzi for a while. For a moment both have forgotten about their lives as ninjas or the important mission they have ahead, the bath has done its job in relaxing their state of mind and their bodies it wasn't long before both kunoichis started having some wonderful dreams. Eventually the relaxing bath turned into a source to have an erotic dream both teens were dreaming they were making out with their leader and obviously it turned even hotter as they proceed to sexual intercourse with the tall blond.
Sakura has stopped her fantasy with her leader as another thought has popped in her head. Something strong enough to destroy her wild dream with her precious whiskered blond, it was the image of her best friend. She suddenly that she was relaxing in the Jacuzzi her jade eyes have softened thinking about Ino and her sudden change her personality and her attitude, she wasn't her best friend anymore. It made her stomach turned realizing that the same cheery, funny even perverted girl has completely transformed into an obsessed revenge maniac. Just looking at the platinum blond now made her tear up she hated to think that she has turned into a copy of Sasuke that thought scared her so much. To have a friend crazy for vengeance and it wasn't just a friend but her best friend that she knows since they were kids. Her thoughts of the Yamanaka were interrupted hearing her neighbor Hinata who was still having her erotic dream with her blond love.
"Mmm touch me more Naruto-kun…."
"Hinata?"
"Eeekkk!" the Hyuga heiress remembered that she wasn't alone in the Jacuzzi she turned to the pink haired kunoichi who was smiling at her, probably giving a smirk at the corner of her lip.
Her whole face turned red from the pure embarrassment" Sakura-san….did…I….did I said that out loud….?"
"It's okay you are very relax stuff like that happens."
"I was thinking the same thing too hell yeah for Jacuzzi sex!" inner Sakura two big thumbs up of approval.
"I'm sorry…."
"It's all right don't apologize I forgot a little that I wasn't alone too, I was thinking about something different though.
The Hyuga princess knew already she read her mind" you're worry about Ino-san?"
She nodded trying not to shed tears" I just can't believe that's really her, same happy wacky and pervert Ino. Now she's hungry for revenge she wants the blood of the Akatsuki…."
"I'm worried about her I too, I have been thinking if there is something that we can do for her to make her feel better instead of letting her feel hatred all the time."
The pink haired medic smiled at her this were the times she was so happy to have a friend like Hinata. She was the kind of person to always worry about her friends even when she used to be quiet and insecure she will always show a sign that she was concerned. Right now she needed the Hyuga kunoichi for support, for advice and her friendship. Maybe she can help her get through this and find a way to help the Yamanaka with her lust for revenge.
"Yes I want to do whatever it takes to help Ino get through this, I don't want to see her the way she is now…."
"Maybe there's no other way" Hinata's replied was soft making Sakura looked at her shocked" maybe the only way is Naruto-kun's way."
"No there has to be another way what Ino is doing is wrong, Naruto shouldn't be taking the blame or her anger."
"I know how you feel I don't approve at Ino-san's way or Naruto-kun's decision because both of them are getting hurt. Both will be fill with pain, sorrow, anguish hurting each other won't help us fulfill this mission or move on from Asuma sensei's death. It will only make them feel worst soon they will be broken they will start to grow apart from the other."
The pink haired kunoichi nodded" when you say it like that it sounds so terrible I couldn't go on straight with my life with the pain I was feeling for rejecting Naruto, I waited for the pain to consume me I ended up becoming suicidal…."
"If you think about it in the end the ones getting hurt are the four of us. Naruto-kun is hurt because of the guilt he feels and Ino's san hatred towards him, Ino-san is hurt for Asuma sensei's death, and we'll be hurt because both of our friends are hurting. It's kind of a circle of pain I guess."
The pink haired medic was staring at the Hyuga heiress in wonder" like a circle of pain that seems to be the case all of us will be suffering. Hinata you're very wise you have really matured."
She blushed trying not to look at her" I….Naruto-kun told me the same thing I only say what I'm thinking, I used to have a lot of trouble expressing myself because my lack of confidence. I like thinking things through."
"That's how it should be keep up the great work Hinata the wise."
"Stop it Sakura-san" her whole face was redder from the embarrassment.
The rosette giggle" thanks for talking to me you're a great friend."
"Likewise…."
She took deep breath trying to get back to relaxing in the Jacuzzi" Hinata?"
"Hmm….?"
"Let's do our best to help Naruto and Ino."
"Right let's keep the team together."
'Especially our bond' Sakura smiled.
(Scene change)
Ino left the bathroom finishing her shower she wasn't happy how the team has taken their time to act and take the mission. In fact she was in a very bad mood for various reasons, first they climbed a high mountain when there was transportation to begin with, and then her team was wasting time now it seems that even the Raikage was wasting his time instead of acting on the matter. She had waited a week to take her revenge on the Akatsuki and she was losing her patience her leader wasn't being very motivated to proceed with the mission to hunt down the duo responsible for killing her former teacher. After coming to her room she put on her casual clothes and went to Naruto's room, she didn't even bothered knocking on the door. She saw the blond jinchurikki taking a few things from his backpack like scrolls and his father's kunai's she rudely went to him wanting to get some answers.
"How about we put the time we are wasting being here to good use?" she asked rudely.
Naruto sighed staring at her" we're not wasting time Ino, we're taking a rest from climbing that tall mountain…."
"Well that's basically your fault there was no need to climb that mountain."
Even if she was right it still hurt him there was nothing he could do. He didn't know of the transportation to get to Kumo but what was worst is that he made another mistake, first Asuma dies because of him and now this. Looking at the platinum blond she didn't looked like she was going to apologize to him her baby blue eyes were so cold it's like she has killed all of her emotions. She was planning in hurting him badly for his horrible mistake, probably for the rest of his life.
"Ino how are you planning to make a good use of our time?" he finally forgot the pain he was feeling in his heart.
"By telling me about the Akatsuki members that killed Asuma sensei…."
"Right I was planning in telling you once we arrive to Kumo, but let's wait for Sakura and Hinata to be done with the Jacuzzi."
"Forget them tell me."
"They are members of this team so they have the right to know too."
"Tell me right now!" she glared at him the rising tone of her voice scared him a little.
"Ino….?"
"Tell me now I'm the one seeking revenge not Sakura and Hinata."
This time the whiskered blond stared at her with an equal glare that reflected his authority as leader" you will have your revenge Ino I will make sure of that. But you will achieve it as a team, you're not alone you will have revenge with us helping you, together."
"You know I want to know badly do you want to continue wasting more time waiting for them to come."
The blond jinchurikki put his hands on her shoulder and she rudely broke free from his caring grip it was another stabbing to his heart. To think she used to loved, melt and blush by hi touch now they were like poison to her.
"Listen Ino we have to be careful and be patient this is Akatsuki, we can't rush in without making proper arrangements. May I remind you that they are composed of S rank missing nins?"
"I know but I'm strong enough to take on them."
"Don't you mean us?"
"I have waited for a week I'm not going to wait another day, so tell me what I want to know" there was more hatred in her eyes it sent shivers to his spine.
Naruto finally nodded" fine I will tell you as long as you don't lose your cool."
The Yamanaka only nodded however it didn't mean that she promised to behave properly.
"On the message granny sent me she also explained about the Akatsuki members that came to fire country, I do know who they are because I fought them before."
This caused Ino to glare at him even more" you fought them before and they are still alive, would you explain to me why?"
The whiskered blond lowered his head for a moment feeling shameful" I….they got away when I fought them."
"It really is your fault then?"
"Yes it is I know…."
"I thought Kitsune Flash was all powerful and he would never let his target get away. You're just a failure after all."
Those words really hit him hard he ignored the pain getting back to business" one of the members is called Kakuzu."
"Kakuzu….?"
"He's a missing nin from hidden waterfall I was able to get a lot of information on him thanks to Shibuki he's the kage of waterfall. I helped him during one of my old missions with team seven we became friends ever since. Kakuzu is very skilled in battle he's very old, I'm talking that he was still around during the era of the First Hokage."
"Hold it how can he still be alive if he's that old?"
The blond jinchurikki nodded" it's because of his special ability it's the same reason why Akatsuki needs him. Kakuzu's body is old and it's completely attached by threads they are all around in his body it allows him to stretch parts of his body like his arms to long extents. He can even use his threads to repair body parts attaching them back to people's bodies, I'm certain that e attached his partners parts from when I fought them."
"All right but that doesn't explain why he's still alive after living for so long" the blond kunoichi was starting to get annoy.
"He has another ability apparently he can take people's hearts and use them for his own, the addition of hearts allows him to continue living longer than the usual person and that's not all there's more…."
She frowned getting upset" you got to be kidding there's more?"
"I told you its Akatsuki S rank missing nins. Anyway his other ability is that he can use his hearts for battle they fight alongside with him."
The platinum blond gasped" you mean….that they are alive?"
He nodded" his hearts are disguised with masks, yes they are alive and he keeps them on his back. He has a total of seven hearts including his original one."
"He sounds like a complete freak."
"He is a freak but a strong freak, when I fought him I managed to destroyed two of his hearts. But I'm sure by now he has found more hearts to replace those two he lost."
Ino nodded" okay is that all from the first member of the team?"
"Yeah that's pretty much it from Kakuzu now on to his partner. If you thought Kakuzu was a freak you haven't seen nothing yet, the second member of the duo is called Hidan. To describe him he's a foul mouthed masochist and crazed obsessed for his insane religion."
"He's worst than the heart freak but what do you mean obsessed with his religion?"
"Hidan is a missing nin from the hidden boiling water village. In that village there was once a religious cult called the visionaries their religious beliefs were too extreme like sacrificing people in the name of their god Jashin because of that the group became very controversial with the village's customs and laws. Soon afterwards the cult was banished from the village to never return again, most of its members quit the religion while others remain loyal to their god."
"A complete freak killing other people for a god that doesn't exist" she gave a disgusted look.
"I don't know if Jashin truly exists but I do know that his powers are real. What makes Hidan special is his ability being a worshiper of his religion he has been granted with eternal life."
"Meaning….?"
"Meaning that he can't die….he's immortal."
"You can't be serious no one can't escape from death even Orochimaru couldn't find immortality."
"I'm afraid it's true Ino, you see I fought him and managed to cut his head off along with both of his arms and he was still alive. Even then his head was still talking his arms and body was still moving, it was a shocking sight."
"Impossible to think that there will be members like those in Akatsuki."
"it's one of the reasons why the organization is dangerous and feared" he paused looking into her clear blue eyes" Ino I'm pretty sure that the one that killed Asuma was Hidan…."
Hearing that the Yamanaka's eyes turned very cold as her anger increased hatred has reached its peak the only thing she had in mind was to kill Hidan. She didn't care if he couldn't die she will make sure he dies a painful death, even if it means killing him a thousand times. Revenge was going to taste sweet to her it has become easier for her now that she knows what she's dealing with.
"So it was him….?" her face was filled with hatred.
"Most likely in order to keep his immortality active Hidan must be continuing to sacrifice people for his god, otherwise he might die for real."
'That son of a bitch is going to die….'
Naruto saw Ino's expression and her eyes were so cold and emotionless, there was no life in there. Only darkness stood in their place it was similar to the blond jinchurikki he has seen that look before, from Sasuke. To see the Yamanaka having the same cold expression full of hatred and the desire to have revenge scared him to death, she wasn't the same anymore. But as his friend and leader he has promised her to help her in her vengeance to fulfill it no matter how hard it becomes, he needed to make sure she sees that he wants to help her get through this. Soon Sakura and Hinata entered the room wearing their casual clothes, both kunoichis happy and relaxed after taking the Jacuzzi.
"Sorry that we took so long the Jacuzzi was amazing" Sakura gave a silly grin trying to hide her embarrassment.
"We obviously lost track of time" Hinata added with a small blush on her cheeks.
"Save it you two, you're late for the mission briefing on the enemy. I want what I needed" Ino replied.
The pink haired medic nin turned to her leader feeling a little disappointed" you already told her about the members of Akatsuki?"
"Yeah but let's not worry about that I will tell you two now…."
"But as a team I think we're supposed to hear the briefing of a mission together" the Hyuga heiress was feeling the same way as the rosette.
"It's all right Hinata I don't mind repeating myself" smiled the whiskered blond.
Suddenly they stopped in their conversation hearing a knock on the front door, they thought the obvious.
"That must be one of the Kumo ninjas to tell us about the audience with the Raikage, Ino could you be kind to answer the door while I explain to Sakura and Hinata?"
"Whatever" she replied rudely but she left the room to answer the door.
Now things weren't so bad Naruto could be right and the person outside of their room must be a cloud ninja telling them that the Raikage is ready to see them. She grinned the sooner the Kumo kage attends them the sooner they will head out to find the Akatsuki and Asuma's murder. Her eyes glared thinking about Hidan she has promised herself to kill him and claim revenge for her former teacher. She finally reached the front door and opened it and she has to grinned, there was a Kumo ninja outside. It was a kunoichi wearing an elite Kumo uniform her headband on the usual spot on her forehead she seemed to be in middle twenties with dark eyes, long blond hair tied on a single braid. Ino had to admit that she was very attractive obviously she was still wrapped up in getting revenge, she didn't even felt jealousy that she could be prettier than her and she can be another target to try and take Naruto from her, like the rest of his fan club.
"Are you here to tell us about the audience with the Raikage?"
"Audience with the Raikage?" replied the blond Kumo kunoichi.
"Well are you?" Ino was getting annoy.
"No I came here to see if Kitsune-sama was here, you must be a member of his team I have heard so much about. Is he here?"
'Great another woman who is looking for Naruto's dick' the platinum blond was angry that she didn't got what she wanted, meeting the Raikage in addition that she was jealous.
"Look Miss…."
She smiled" where are my manners I'm Yugito, Nii Yugito is Kitsune-sama or simply Naruto-san here?"
The Yamanaka glared" look blondie we're busy taking an important mission and Kitsune-sama doesn't have time to get his dick wet pounding you. Besides I'm sure he would rather fuck me than you."
"Pardon me!" Yugito got upset and her whole face turned beet red from the sheer embarrassment.
"You heard me he would rather fuck this blond goddess right here than you, so why don't you do us a favor and leave?"
"You sadly mistaken I didn't come here for such thing, I simply came here to see him."
"That's what they all say" Ino gritted her teeth she didn't like the blond Kumo kunoichi one bit.
"He's my comrade we fought Akatsuki together before I have no intention of getting into his pants!" she was so upset with the team member they were already into a bad start.
"Yeah right say whatever you like I know what you want, first you say he's your comrade, then you're blushing at him, then you start ogling at him, then you're having dreams that he's banging you and finally you tried to rape him. We had tons of women who have have been trying to kidnap him so they could rape him like he was the only man in the world."
"I am certainly not!" Yugito glared at her" you have really test my patience and I don't even know who you are."
"It's Yamanaka Ino learn it sister."
"I don't like you."
"I feel the same way too, how about we take this outside?"
"Gladly"
"Yugito-san?"
The Kumo kunoichi changed her expression when she saw the blond jinchurikki walking to her with two other kunoichis with him she obviously guessed they were the rest of his team. She was happy to see her comrade from long ago not to mention someone who was carrying the same burden as her, as a demon container. Both have fought against Akatsuki before with the purpose to survive as jinchurikkis and as their mission to stop the organization, it was clear they will become comrades and friends.
Naruto likewise was feeling the same way he smiled at her, happy to meet another fellow jinchurikki. Especially when she was a long time comrade who helped him fight the criminal organization that are currently hunting them down he kept his smile before noticing the tension in the room. He sensed chakra waves rising coming from two kunoichis Sakura and Hinata who were staring at Yugito with jealousy in their eyes. It was the same old thing whenever they will meet a woman his team will get jealous and they will glare daggers at the unfortunate female even if she has never meet the whiskered blond before. Right now they looked like ripping the Kumo kunoichi's head off but obviously hiding their rage with a fake smile he was surprised that Ino wasn't feeling like that, however she was glaring at the female jinchurikki like she hated her.
"It's been a while Yugito-san."
"It sure has I'm glad to see you again, and as always you're surrounded by women" the Kumo kunoichi gave a smirk seeing that the blond was standing between the three kunoichis.
"It's nothing like that honest these three are my team they are traveling with me to fulfilling missions that's all. I'm not that kind of person anymore."
Yugito gave a smile" I see that's good it wasn't you, looks like you have changed for the better."
"Naruto-kun you seemed to know her a lot" Hinata said trying to hide her jealousy.
"Yeah let me guess did you flirted with her too?" asked Sakura with a suspicious look.
"Nothing like that me and Yugito-san were always about business, our relation was more professional."
She nodded" that is correct we are just comrades or allies, and besides I would never approve of his flirting methods otherwise he would end up with his face on the ground."
'I like her style' though Sakura with a smirk.
'Right I almost forgot Yugito-san can be scary when she's angry' Naruto thought.
'So she's not interested in Naruto-kun like that' Hinata was feeling better now she knew she was going to get along with the Kumo kunoichi.
"Yugito-san and I fought Akatsuki when they came to lighting country to try and capture her, unfortunately for them they never knew I was waiting for them."
"Akatsuki were after her?" Sakura was shocked realizing the truth.
"Then Yugito is….." Hinata started.
"Yeah she's a jinchurikki too she's the host of the two tail cat Nibi."
Ino glared at the Kumo jinchurikki' all the better reason to dislike her even more.'
"It's an honor to finally meet the famous team Kitsune Flash a lot of rumors have come to Kumo about you guys. The village is already friendly to Naruto-san so they won't have a problem accepting the rest of his team" replied Yugito.
"We are honored to meet you too Yugito-san" Hinata said.
"We're always happy to meet new people and allies, we're happier to meet another jinchurikki carrying the same burden as Naruto" replied Sakura.
"I'm glad you guys understand" the Kumo kunoichi turned to Ino who was still quiet' well at least the other two are not annoying as that blond, I can get along with them just fine….'
"Yugito-san would you like to stay with us and have some breakfast with us?" asked Naruto.
"Why don't you leave?" Ino turned to her before she got the chance to agree or disagree.
"Ino don't be rude Yugito is a friend."
"If she's not here to tell us about the meeting with the Raikage then she's not worth having here, there's the door use it."
The cloud jinchurikki glared" what the hell is your problem what did I do to you to treat me like this?"
"My problem is you. You're the reason Asuma sensei is death."
"What are you talking about?"
"Enough Ino!" Naruto shouted" don't blame her with that. I'm the only one to blame not her."
"No it's because of the jinchurikki that Akatsuki ended up killing him, it's their entire fault!"
"Ino stop there's no need to act so hostile to someone who has become our ally" Sakura tried to calm her friend.
"She may be your ally but she's definitely not mine, jinchurikki they deserve to lie.
Hinata gasped at her harsh comment while Sakura had her eyes wide opened from shock.
'Oh no...' Naruto was scared looking at Yugito's face she was obviously very angry.
"You….I thought there was no discrimination with jinchurikkis on your team Naruto-san, looks like I was wrong."
"You're not wrong Yugito-san Ino is just having some issues…..personal ones."
The Yamanaka glared coldly at the Kumo kunoichi" get the hell out of here I don't want to see your face again."
"Ino stop it!" Naruto tried to scold here in order to keep her quiet but it was too late.
"You hate me for being a jinchurikki just like the rest of the world sees us you're blaming me for having something I never asked for something I never wanted, something that has only brought me pain and misery for almost my entire life!"
"I lost my former sensei to Akatsuki because of their goal and that's to capture you jinchurikkis!"
"Ino I'm not going to repeat myself calm down and behave yourself."
"Ino-san please calm down" said Hinata.
"You….are truly pathetic" Yugito spat at her in anger
The group gasped seeing that the Kumo kunoichi's body was covered with red chakra it was very familiar they have seen it before from when Naruto was taken over by the Kyubbi. By now Ino was scared although she hasn't regretted the things she said, she got next to Sakura and Hinata who were showing the same signs of fear. Naruto knew he had to do something or the pissed off Yugito might end up destroying the entire inn and even hurting his team he couldn't let that happen, he did made a mental note that this was Ino's fault for provoking her. You don't blame a jinchurikki for the death of your sensei especially when she had no clue about it or even when she wasn't responsible for it.
'No Yugito-san she's really over doing it, I thought she will have more control over her Bijuu….'
"Her anger seems to be triggering Nibi's rage unleashing her chakra, it seems Nibi is pissed too" Kyuubi grinned watching from behind his cage.
'Things are going to get ugly.'
Naruto immediately went to the Kumo jinchurikki in a attempt to calm her down" listen Yugito-san please there's no need for you to do this remember who you are, don't let yourself get control by the Nibi cease your anger don't do anything you might regret later!"
"I'm not stupid" she replied suddenly the red chakra left her body, she was back to normal.
"I'm not foolish enough to become a traitor and a criminal to my village by attacking you, just because someone can't control her emotions" she turned her gaze to Ino.
"Who the hell do you-"
Naruto cut her off" Ino if you say one more word I swear I will quit this mission and your chances to have revenge will be reduce to zero, now stay quiet."
The Yamanaka stood quiet she wasn't happy with his comment of course he was kidding, he woldn't do such thing. It was his fault Asuma was dead if he quits the mission to track down Akatsuki she will never forgive him but was she willing to risk it. She looked at him his expression was deadly serious he wasn't kidding she didn't bothered to look at Sakura and Hinata, both kunoichis had sorrowful gazes feeling bad for her. It's like they were hurting for her behavior but she didn't care what they think or feel, she finally looked at Yugito who was still angry with her. She could care less if she was glaring at her with murderess intent she finally walked out to a corner getting seated in one of the furniture of the expensive room. She never took her time to gaze at the blond jinchurikki who was probably feeling worst than the rest of the team.
He sighed" I'm sorry you have to witnessed that Yugito-san Ino has been taking it hard, her former teacher meant a lot to her…."
"Well she shouldn't be putting the blame on me for it, or even you. Blaming jinchurikkis is a worthless excuse to take her hatred on someone."
"But you have to understand her she's just frustrated and angry that he's gone, she wants to do whatever it takes to get the ones responsible. Sadly it's my fault that Asuma was killed Hidan and Kakuzu came to fire country obviously looking for me."
"It' not your fault Naruto" Sakura said looking at him with so much devotion while Hinata nodded.
"She's right if there's anyone to blame is Akatsuki, those two are back I hate the fact that they managed to escape us when we fought them" replied the Kumo jinchurikki.
"That's all in the past Yugito-san don't feel bad, but anyway I want you to meet my team this is Sakura she's known as Kitsune Huntress and this is Hinata known as Kitsume Mistress, and you already know Ino known as Kitune Temptress."
"She already told me I will never forget her" she frown thinking about the Yamanaka.
"Nice to meet you Yugito-san" Sakura said.
"Pleasure to meet you" replied the Hyuga heiress.
"The pleasure is all mine though I can't say the same for your other teammate."
"Ino is not really like this, I'm sure if she was her normal self you would like her" said the pink haired kunoichi.
"It's hard for me to change my opinion on people, especially those I have come to dislike. To earn my trust is very difficult to achieve…."
Naruto nodded he has come to understand Yugito a lot. Ever since he met her she knew her pain the same fate all jinchurikki had suffered because of the burden they carried. Like him she was mistreated, ignored, hated and feared she was all alone in her village. The people who have been there for her the ones who have acknowledge not as a jinchurikki but as a human being were her closest most beloved people, among them were the Raikage and his younger brother. The whiskered blond understood her very well the same pain he shared just like Gaara she has experienced a lot to trust anyone. She simply trusted him because he's the same as her and she wanted to help other jinchurikkis like herself she knew Akatsuki was up to no good and they had to be stop.
Hinata nodded" we understand Yugito-san if you feel that way, it's not easy to trust people."
The Kumo kunoichi smiled" I can make an exception with you two you're all Naruto-san's friend so I can trust you, and unlike your other friend you don't hold grudge against jinchurikkis."
"Of course not we might not understand the pain of a jinchurikki but Naruto's is precious to us we want to help him and protect him too" Sakura finished trying hard not to blush the same with the Hyuga kunoichi.
Naruto tried not to blush feeling embarrassed' it's good to have great people to care for you….'
"I'll say bullshit to that it's obvious those vixens want to bang you. You should be quite flatter to have such rare beauties wanting to get into your pants."
'Sometimes I wish you could be mute….'
"I will trust you the same way Naruto-san does" Yugito said' except for Miss emo who wants revenge.'
"Glad to see we're getting along" said the whiskered blond.
'I really have to talk to Ino later….' He added mentally.
On the far corner of the room in one of the seats Ino was listening to their conversation not happy. It made her angry at how Yugito was referring to her as someone not trustworthy and not likeable her points for any possible respect for the female jinchurikki were even lower than zero. Somehow it made her angrier that Naruto was getting along with her like there was no tomorrow, perhaps because she was jealous that he was giving her so much attention instead of her. It made her sneered watching her leader talking to her, smiling enjoying her company a lot the same with her teammates. The rage of wanting revenge along with her jealousy was driving her insane she didn't know what to do, either beat some sense to her leader or beat up Yugito. Both choices seemed to have made her grinned.
"Yo anybody home to greet this homie?"
The group stopped their talking seeing someone on the front door. It was another ninja wearing the standard Kumo uniform different from the one Yugito was wearing he was tall, dark skiined with blond hair and bear, in his early thirties. He was wearing round sunglasses with the Kumo headband on his forehead like Yugito he had seven swords strapped on his back, on his right shoulder was the kanji word of iron and on his left cheek was the tattoo of a bull horn. The team didn't knew who he was it was the first time meeting him even Naruto didn't knew him Yugito did though she gave a sigh at his presence. She has told him about the mask mercenary, him being a jinchurikki she couldn't refuse to tell him.
"Who's he?" asked Sakura.
"Everyone this is Killer Bee he's a jinchurikki too" replied the Kumo kunoichi.
'Another jinchurikki I didn't know there was another one besides Yugito-san?' thought Naruto.
"Please to meet you Bee-san" Hinata said.
"Call me Mr. eight or eight tails-sama."
"Eight tails?" replied the pink haired medic.
"Bee is the host of the eight tails ox" said Yugito.
'So he's the eight tails, the Bijuu are strong according to the number of their tails. After the fox his Bijuu is the strongest and he doesn't look like a push over….' the whiskered blond kept glancing at Bee.
The Kyuubi snorted" I can handle both Nibi and Hachibi without even lifting any of my tails."
'Good for you do you want me to give you a cookie?'
"A human to devour would be nice how about one of your vixens I would love to eat your big breast Hyuga vixen."
'I was being sarcastic….'
"Impudent brat!"
Bee went to Naruto" and you must be the famous Kitsune Flash I have heard so much about, I'm always in da mood to meet another brother."
"It's really…..cool to meet you eh….dude" sweat dropped the blond.
"How about a nice greeting?"
He grinned as both slammed their fist in a friendly way.
"Yo you know to make a greeting you have met my bro."
"Bro you mean brother?"
Yugito nodded" Bee is the younger brother of the Raikage."
'He's a jinchurikki and the Raikage's brother?' thought Sakura.
'The Raikage sure likes keeping secrets but I guess he couldn't help it, jinchurikkis are supposed to be weapons he probably kept his relation with Bee a secret to protect him from any enemies including Akatsuki' Naruto thought he remembered that the Kumo kage never mentioned him nothing about his brother or that there was another jinchurikki like Yugito.
"I'm glad to meet you Bee I'm sure we will get along just fine."
"Same bro together we will smash and bash those motherfocka's Akatsuki , losers will be the snoozers."
'What…?' sweat dropped the blond.
'What's with his way of talking?' Sakura felt the same way as her leader.
Hinata got closer to Yugito" what's with Bee-san….he talks a little strange?"
"Bee likes to rap" whispered back the female jinchurikki she made sure he wasn't listening to her" so he's always talking in rhymes, but just between you and me I think he sucks when it comes to making a rhyme although his very exceptional in his fighting skills."
The Hyuga princess nodded" he could sure use some lessons, I'm sure he can get better."
"Not a chance" frown the blond kunoichi.
"Bee it's nice to meet another jinchurikki but if there's a reason for you to come here, I know I can trust you with keeping my secret identity since Yugito-san told you?" said Naruto.
"Your secret is safe with me bro, you're the jinchurikki of the nine tails fox I want to call you differently how about foxy?"
"What?" the whiskered blond gave a comical expression.
Sakura and Hinata had to cover their mouths preventing them from laughing at the nickname Bee decided to give to their leader.
"No that sounds feminine!" replied the blond with the same comical expression.
"Then what about Mr. nine?"
"How about just Kitsune when we're alone you can call me Naruto?"
"It's all cool bro. Back to yapping then I'm here to tell you that my big bro is ready to see you and your honeys."
"We're not his honeys we're his team" Sakura replied with a blush on her cheeks and Hinata nodded but she was also blushing.
"So the Raikage is finally ready to see us" said the blond jinchurikki.
"About damn time!"
They turned to see Ino who has already left a while ago and she was now wearing her Temptress uniform she has finally waited enough to see the Raikage. This time she wasn't going to be stop from seeing him and go after the Akatsuki she looked at her teammates and leader, ignoring Yugito's glare she has come to dislike her as much as herself towards her.
"What are you guys waiting for go ahead and change already we can't be late?"
"Right we'll be ready in a minute, Yugito-san Bee we will see you guys later" replied Naruto.
"We will take our leave now" Yugito said.
"About time" Ino glared at her happy that she was finally leaving, only to receive a glare from the female jinchurikki.
(Scene change)
(Location: somewhere in lighting country territory)
Hidan and Kakuzu were walking in a mountain area they were still on their journey to find the two tails. Both Akatsuki were still far from their destination which it explained Kakuzu's annoyed expression behind his mask Hidan on the contrary was annoyed because he was sick of traveling. The Jashin worshiper took a small canteen and drank some of the water the liquid left the corner of his mouth it made him cursed at his bad luck. Kakuzu wasn't happy he has been partners with Hidan for a long time and he still couldn't stand him, killing is always on his mind. It was better to focus on their task at hand he will never kill him, capturing the two tails comes first although he wasn't happy they will also have the task to capture the one tail. It seems the organization is relying on only them to fulfill their goal in capturing the tail beasts putting the zombie duo on a lot of pressure.
"This fucking sucks" Hidan growled realizing the canteen was empty" there's no water is there a river nearby?"
"Let me remind you that's my water canteen you're holding, don't complain when it's not your canteen to begin with."
"Whatever it's not my fault that the fucking water keeps pouring away from my mouth, are you going to tell me if there's a river near don't know where we are?"
Mumbling something about being an asshole the missing nin from waterfall took a map from his cloak sleeve he opened it" too bad for you Hidan there's no river in this part of the country, looks like you will have to be patient until we travel further ahead."
"Fuck no I'm thirsty god damn it!"
"Why do you even care it's not like you're going to die from thirst" Kakuzu kept staring at his map.
"Is that supposed to be funny Kaku-shit?"
"To me it is, never heard of someone who is immortal and complaining that his thirsty, just wait until we get to the next intersection there's supposed to be a town before reaching Kumo territory."
"And how long will it take us to get to that town?" shouted the Jashin worshiper.
"Probably around five to six hours" he replied calmly.
"No fucking way that's it I'm done with walking!" Hidan finally stopped getting seated on a nearby rock.
Kakuzu stopped following his partner" Hidan you know we can't waste any more time we have a jinchurikki to capture. We have a busy schedule ahead we originally have two jinchurikkis to capture."
"I don't give a fuck about that I'm tire we have been traveling for weeks, if that leader wants to capture the one tail he should send another team to find it we're already busy with the two tails" the missing nin from boiling water put his scythe next to him.
"I agree that is too soon to make us capture a jinchurikki when we already have another one as our original target from the beginning."
"It's all that sinner's fault, that bastard Kitsune Flash if he wasn't with the two tails when we first tried to capture her that bitch would have been ours we wouldn't even be here in the first place."
The masked Akatsuki nodded folding the map putting it back on his sleeve" true but we can't forget that Kitsune Flash is also a jinchurikki don't forget that leader wants him alive, don't try to kill him."
"I know you don't have to remind me" Hidan replied rudely.
"I do have to I know of your high temper, sometimes you lose the purpose of the fights and you let your anger get the better of you. Remember when we fought the three tails you almost tried to kill it as a sacrifice to your god?"
"Like the fucking thing can actually die Bijuus are basically immortal without a jinchurikki host."
"Still don't cross the line we don't have to go overboard, you can kill as many people you like except for jinchurikkis."
"Stop lecturing me damn it, you're being so fucking annoying."
"Now how about we put this rest to good use?" Kakuzu took another map but this time from his left sleeve opening it he took a long look at it.
"This is a perfect timing to discuss our strategy to capture the two tails."
"What the hell are you talking about without that asshole Kitsune Flash we can take on that bitch with no problem?"
"That is true but the real challenge will be infiltrating the hidden cloud village…."
"Kumo?" replied the Jashin worshiper.
"According to Zetsu's last report the two tails is at Kumo when it will be difficult to capture her in the middle of the cloud village itself."
"You're worrying too much we can take on those pussies, our combo attack is unbeatable."
"You're not seeing the big picture here if we don't infiltrate the village properly we might have to go against the entire Kumo army in order to get to the two tails. Remember what leader-sama said, we can't bring too much attention to ourselves."
"That will make things even better for me, the entire cloud ninja army all those sacrifices will truly please Jashin-sama" Hidan gave an evil grin.
"No you fool, taking on the entire Kumo army is madness we might end up fighting the Raikage. We have to infiltrate the village and capture the two tails without being spotted, that's why we need the perfect strategy to pull this off."
"Strategy my ass you're acting like a scary pussy what's with you, have you forgotten who we are?"
"We're the immortal ones of the Akatsuki the zombie duo we can take on any fucker that comes in our way."
Kakuzu was frustrated at his partner's behavior and sighed" all right Hidan let's say we do this your way and we infiltrate Kumo without a plan. We killed anyone that comes in our way until we find the two tails beat her, then we capture her and finally we leave the village the way we came in. Is that what you have in mind?"
"Pretty much…."
"You idiot that plan is suicide we'll probably be chop to pieces before we even lay a foot on the village, in addition that we will be bringing to much attention that Kumo will mark us as their biggest threat they will come after us. The worst case scenario that we might end up having a war with cloud and with that it won't be long before the other hidden villages join in, Akatsuki will be hunted down by all the villages now you understand that we need a plan to infiltrate the village?"
"Whatever" came the reply from the Jashin worshiper.
"We have to make this plan right, so far all of the jinchurikkis we have captured have been outside of their home village this jinchurikki will be an exception."
Hidan only got up and started walking" do it then if it worries you so much that it makes act like a pussy."
"Where do you think you're going?"
"If you want to make some shitty plan then be my guess because I'm not going to help you…."
'Curse you Hidan' growled the missing nin from waterfall.
"You're plan seems to be a waste of time, what if the Raikage feels like getting rid of that bitch you have forgotten that almost all of the villages that have jinchurikkis treats them like shit?"
"I doubt the Raikage wants to lose a valuable asset like the jinchurikki, they're just weapons like the ninja themselves. If she was a threat Kumo would have gotten rid of her long ago, my point is we need the plan."
"It's your loss if you want to come up with some shit like that" Hidan suddenly got seated on the ground in an Indian position and closed his eyes.
"What are you doing?"
"I'm praying to Jashin-sama for the future sacrifices I will kill in his name so shut the fuck up and let me concentrate."
Kakuzu growled" not that again you already did that when we arrived at lighting country."
"Trying to concentrate so piss off Kakuzu!"
The missing nin from waterfall didn't said another word and walked out leaving his partner to do his praying' while I'm trying to make the infiltration plan I guess I can count the money from the bounties I have defeated….'
(Scene change time skip)
(Location: lighting tower Kumo hidden cloud village lighting country territory)
The team was seated in a hall in front of the Raikage's office they were waiting for one of his attendants to tell them that it was all right to come in. So far they were patient to be attended they have waited long enough but it was still all right for them, except for one member of the team. Ino was feeling annoyed and irritated that it was taking so long for the Kumo kage to attend them she expected a quick audience with them looks like she was wrong. He was the one that requested the mission in the first place he should at least show some priority in the matter, at least that's what she thought he was acting very irresponsible. She was starting to lose her patience how long does she has to wait to fulfill her revenge, how long does she has to wait to deliver justice for her former teacher. It's like everyone was against her, her team and leader was acting very calmly like they didn't care about vengeance and now the Raikage.
Finally the door of the office making the Yamanaka feel relief everyone was staring at the assistant of the Raikage. She had dark skinned, dark eyes, light gray hair tied in a small bun except for the frontal of it which consists of two flat side bangs that fall along the sides of her face. She was wearing a very formal attire that wasn't a Kumo ninja uniform nor she wasn't wearing the hidden cloud headband it could easily mean that she wasn't a ninja of said village. She meets up with the group while Ino was the first to go to her keeping in mind to try to be patient, although she couldn't.
"Sorry to keep you waiting the Raikage will see you now."
"About time" muttered Ino trying to contain her temper.
Naruto cleared his throat" Temptress remembered what I said."
"Right…."
The group nodded and they kindly greeted the assistant as she opened the door letting them inside, she followed them shortly closing the door behind her. Everyone was staring at the office there was a large desk with some scrolls and an ink brush, next to it was the kage hate with the kanji word of lighting. The office itself was big a little bigger from the Hokage's office there was a wide glass window showing an amazing view of the entire village of Kumo, there was one thing that got the team's attention. The office was surrounded by a wide collection of dun bells it seemed the kage really likes working out tuning his body into perfect shape, the assistant lead them to the desk while the kunoichis were staring at the collection.
'The Raikage must really like lift weights to have so many of them' Sakura thought.
'He must be very strong to be able to lift such heavy weights' thought Hinata.
'He's a dun bell freak' thought Ino with a sweat dropped.
"The Raikage will attend you any minute now" replied the assistant.
'You got to be kidding me' the Yamanaka was not happy after everything she had to wait.
"That seems a little rare" replied the Hyuga heiress.
"I'll say you said he's ready to see us why do we have to wait for him to attend us?" asked the pink haired medic.
The team gasped when the ceiling broke and a man came falling towards the mask mercenary.
"Kitsune-sama look out!" Sakura was able to react in time.
"You're mine!" shouted the individual.
The whiskered blond grinned as he managed to grabbed his arms both were now using sheer strength to outmatch the other. The kunoichis gasped at how fast their leader was able to react at his surprise attack, the individuals attack was so strong that the floor was smash creating a hole below. Naruto was still grinning trying t outmatch him it wasn't the first time this has happened to him, it amused him it has come down to this again.
'He's as strong as ever, if I hadn't used sage mode he would have rip my arms with his brute strength….'
Both suddenly took a step back none were panting they were perfectly fine it will take more than that to stop any of them.
"Kitsune-kun!" Hinata went to him worried.
"Are you hurt?" Sakura followed wanting to heal any wounds he might have received in the attack.
"I'm all right everyone."
'Who is this guy?' thought Ino.
The pink haired medic gave a serious expression to the individual finally all three kunoichis were taking a good look at him. He was dark skinned with dark eyes, blond hair with a mustache his bare chest was shown exposing a lot of muscles. He had a shuriken tattoo on his left shoulder wearing long dark pants and black boots it got their attention what it seems to be a championship belt around his waist. They already knew with the display he showed against their leader they knew he was quite strong.
"All right who are you just barging in here and tried to attack our leader buster?" asked the pink haired kunoichi.
"Just trying to test him making sure he hasn't gotten sloppy over the years" replied the muscle dark skinned man.
"Test him?" replied Hinata.
Naruto chuckle staring at him" I see you haven't change Raikage."
"Raikage?" Ino was baffled.
'No way….he's the Raikage?' thought Sakura.
"You're the Raikage" the Hyuga heiress followed.
"That's right…."
His assistant arrived giving him his kage cloak" sir we need to request repairs for the ceiling, this is the third time you have destroyed it."
"What can be broken can be fix, it's of little concern."
Everyone sweat dropped at his comment including his assistant.
'He sounds like he doesn't care' thought the pink haired medic.
She cleared her throat" sir may I remind you that this damage will take some of the budget from the village's maintenance system?"
"We can always ask for the feudal lord to lend us more money he won't mind problem solved."
Everyone sweat dropped again.
'He really hasn't changed' Naruto thought.
'You can't be serious this guy acts like he doesn't care and like he doesn't takes anything seriously, he can't be the Raikage looks like Kumo has stood very low to have such an incompetent leader' thought Ino not approving at the Kumo kage.
The dark skinned woman sighed" I will contact the team to start with the repairs."
"Good that will be all" she gave a nod before leaving the office.
"Now glad to have you back at Kumo Kitsune Flash and this time you're not alone" he got seated on his desk.
"These three are my team they are helping me with the mission to put it short, this one is Huntress, Temptress and Mistress."
"Those names sound not so ninja like."
Naruto sweat dropped' hey it took me a while to think about those names I think they sound cool….'
The kunoichis sweat dropped along their leader.
'I like mine' thought Hinata.
'My name is very ninja like' thought Sakura.
"My name kicks ass!"
'Kind to think of it my name makes me sound like a slut' the Yamanaka frowned.
"Not on to business I will guess that you're here because you have accepted my request mission?"
"Yes I have fully accepted the mission you have assigned for me as a mercenary you want me and my team to hunt down the Akatsuki?"
The Kumo kage nodded" I will get to the details of the mission then, according to our scouts they have reported that Akatsuki have infiltrated lighting country. They are probably coming to try and capture Yugito again."
"So the Akatsuki members they are Hidan and Kakuzu?" Naruto said seriously.
"According to our scouts it's them…."
Ino tightened her fists her eyes glared hard' so they are here looks like I will fulfill my revenge sooner than I thought, those bastards will pay.'
"I called upon you since you have already fought them before, you should know how to take them on" replied the Raikage.
"I do and this time I will make sure they don't get away, I have regretted dearly making that mistake" his cerulean eyes softened feeling the pain of Ino's hatred.
'Naruto….'thought Sakura feeling hurt that he was suffering.
'Naruto-kun don't feel this way, Ino-san is hurt too' Hinata lowered her gaze.
The Kumo kage shook his head" feeling sorry won't help you now, I worried for Yugito and Bee's safety can I count on you to take this mission and stop those two Akatsuki?"
"Raikage I promise you that I will stop Akatsuki they will never get the chance to get to this village, you have my word."
'Don't make promises you can't keep failure but I will make sure this mission will be a success' the Yamanaka gave him a glare remembering his past failure that they ended up escaping.
"Fair enough we can't let Akatsuki get away with this."
"We will reach them before they make the move to go after Yugito-san" he replied taking a familiar map from his coat pocket" we managed to gather information on their secret hide outs, there's supposed to be an Akatsuki base here in lighting country that will be our first search spot."
"Even if you're doing this by yourself with your team I want to lend you a hand, Kumo isn't going to stand without doing anything."
The blond jinchurikki smiled" you were never the kind of person to stand with your arms cross."
"And never will!" the Kumo kage raised his fist.
The kunoichis watched the interaction with some curiosity the way their leader was talking to the Raikage is like they knew each other for a while. It was obviously true they knew he has already visited the hidden cloud village once before, Sakura and Hinata couldn't help but smiled at the sight. It showed how Naruto can get along with people just like that they still thought the Kumo kage was weird he was very obsessed with lifting weights and he was all muscle. Ino however wasn't paying attention to the interaction at all the only thing in her mind was revenge and she was very close of fulfilling in it, if the two Akatsuki were already here.
"Kumo will help you Kitsune Flash."
The Raikage's assistant entered the office.
"Sir….?"
"Right on time call Samui's team and tell them to prepare to accompany Kitsune Flash's team to search for the Akatsuki."
"Right away sir" she left the office.
"Samui?" blinked the blond jinchurikki remembering a certain blond Kumo kunoichi.
"Something wrong Kitsune-sama?" Sakura noticed his reaction and she was starting to feel jealous, any woman's name she will hear might mean that there's something going on with her leader and said name.
"No….it's nothing."
The pink haired medic stood quiet Hinata was feeling the same way both looked at each other, they had a bad feeling about this. Somehow they predicted further anger and jealousy towards said name.
"The team lead by Samui is very skilled they will help you in the mission" said the Kumo kage.
"Thank you Raikage much appreciated, the more the merrier."
'They are all going to get in my way' glared Ino not happy to have more people accompanying them.
"We will take our leave now Raikage thanks again, let's go team we have a mission to fulfill."
"Samui and her team will be waiting at the village main gate."
He nodded and before they left the office Ino was already gone not caring that she left them behind. The Raikage noticed this he thought it was weird for one of his teammates to walk out on him just like that he saw it as a situation where he wasn't in control of a team member's actions. Although he didn't show it often he has a lot of respect for Kitsune Flash because of his strength and guts but to see him experiencing some trouble with one of his team member's made him feel uneasy. He waited for the other two members to leave his office noticing that the mask mercenary bowed to him before heading to the door.
"Kitsune Flash?"
"Yes Raikage?" replied the blond jinchurikki.
"Whatever problem your companion is having I suggest you fix it, as the leader you should be the first person to walk out of my office."
"It's all right she….she's going through a hard time, she lost someone close to her at the hands of Akatsuki she's just upset."
The Kumo kage looked down on him like he has lost some respect for the mask ally" that's merely an excuse not having control over your teammates is a weakness it only shows your poor skills as a leader. Don't forget your team's behavior determines your good qualifications as a team leader, I expected better from you I'm disappointed in you…."
Naruto didn't care what he thought of him or that he was disappointed in him, he only cared about the welfare of his team. Right now he was deeply concerned for Ino sure he was helping her to get revenge but he felt like he wasn't doing enough, guilt was causing him a lot of pain mainly because it was his fault Asuma died. He questioned his abilities as team leader maybe the Raikage was right that he wasn't a good leader if he couldn't control his team members, he didn't had what it takes to be a great leader. He didn't said another word and left the office the Kumo kage was still staring at him he always saw brute strength as a way to gain respect and he saw it in the mask mercenary, but after the small incident with the Yamanaka he was starting to question his trust in him.
(Scene change)
(Location: main gate Kumo hidden cloud village)
The team arrived at the gate of the village only to notice that they weren't the only ones who arrive their back up has made it in time. They were already waiting for the masked team's arrival the Kumo team that is Samui's team. One was a man in his late teens with dark skin and silver hair with a lollipop on his mouth wearing the usual Kumo headband and uniform, he had a katana strapped on his back. Another one was a woman who looked the same age as the male but she had dark skin, red hair and hazel eyes her Kumo headband was made into a bandana. Like the male she was wearing the usual Kumo uniform and she also had a katana strapped on her back, it was anyone's guess that both looked like they were kind of related. Naruto smiled staring at the familiar group it brought some memories when he was here the last time, his cerulean eyes turned to the last member of the team.
It was another woman she was taller than the kunoichis's present with white skin sky blue eyes shoulder length blond hair that it was longer in the front and shorter on her back and she had a very impressive chest that could possibly rival Tsunade's. Unlike the two dark skinned ninjas she wasn't wearing a Kumo headband and her ninja uniform was a bit different from the two swordsmen she was wearing a very low cut outfit with a mesh armor underneath, a short skirt and red hand guards, high boots and what appears to be a modified Kumo flak jacket that covers her stomach only, similar to a girdle. Last she had a short sword strapped to her lower back. Her eyes were on the masked team, namely Naruto she only gave him a nod of acknowledgement like a small salute similar to a hand shake while the dark skinned kunoichi smiled at his presence.
The blond jinchurikki smiled" you guys are early."
"Hey….?" Said the dark skinned ninja.
The dark skinned kunoichi smacked him" Omoi don't be so impolite show some respect to Kitsune-sama!"
"It's all right Karui no need for formalities since we're all comrades."
Omoi was rubbing his head on the spot where he got assaulted by his partner" see Karui I told you that he wasn't going to get bother by treating him like a regular ninja."
"It's always best to act polite to one of our allies, unlike you I was taught manners."
He sweat dropped at her comment" you could have fooled me with your temper and strength you looked more to be the one who is uncivilized and impolite."
His comment was a big mistake to say as the ebony kunoichi gave him a mean comical expression and she started strangling him back and forth" what was that?"
"Ah my loli!" he saw his lollipop falling to the ground because of the strangling hold from Karui.
"Go ahead Omoi say that again to my face I dare you!"
"Can't….say a word….can't breathe" he gave the same comical expression as the kunoichi.
The team sweat dropped at the humorous display.
'Are they for real?' thought Ino.
'They haven't changed a bit' Naruto grinned.
'This somehow feels like déjà vu' Sakura remembered at how she used to treat her leader she felt hurt remembering the old wound.
'I wonder if they are together' Hinata thought.
The busty kunoichi sighed" enough you two behave yourselves in front of Kitsune Flash and his team."
"How're you doing Samui?" the whiskered blond smiled at her.
"Fine glad to see you back, and this time you're not alone."
He nodded looking back at the three masked kunoichis" this is Kitsune Huntress, Kitsune Temptress and Kitsune Mistress they are the most skilled kunoichis you will ever meet."
"Pleased to meet you" she replied giving a nod.
Sakura and Hinata were staring at her giving her the critical eye of jealousy they were onto her the moment they heard their leader calling her name.
'So she's Samui….I can see why Naruto will give her his full attention' Sakura's eyes were on her breasts' damn those things look like they're alive they could probably be bigger than Tsunade-sama's is that even possible?'
"Those are jumbo tits!"
For a moment she felt insecure sure she was the only member of the team whose breast weren't an impressive size, Ino and Hinata were an exception with perfect size boobies that go well with their sexy figures. However it didn't bothered her knowing that her breasts weren't so small she wasn't completely flat she was pretty confident that the blond jinchurikki wasn't a big breast fanatic like most perverts out there.
'I see she's very pretty no wonder Naruto-kun will give his attention to her' Hinata's expression softened with some jealousy and insecurity not paying attention to her assets because she knew she had a nice package for a chest, in addition that her leader told her he loves her big breasts the day she gave him oral sex.
By now Karui has already let go of Omoi from her strangling hold she was frowning at him not happy for his comment, he was slowly getting up. He sighed seeing his lollipop on the dirty ground he won't be able to finish eating it anymore.
"Lucky that I have a spare one just in case" he took another lollipop from his pants pocket putting it on his mouth.
"Can we start this mission already?" Ino said annoyed she really wanted to get through with this.
"Right Samui we have a map with the locations of every single Akatsuki base available making the mission easier for us, we believe that they might be in the hideout in this country" replied the blond jinchurikki.
The busty blond nodded" Raikage-sama chose us to help you in the mission because we're very familiar with lighting country we know every location and route there is, we will reach our destination faster with us."
"Our mission has gotten easier for us the Raikage knew what he was doing."
Ino was in deep thought looking around her so many people with her she tightened her fists' they don't understand nothing they don't know that this is my fight hunting those Akatsuki is my job. It's up to me to avenge him I'm the only one who can avenge Asuma sensei, they're all getting in the way….'
"Let's go team, Samui I'm the one with the map so follow us" Naruto said while Sakura and Hinata nodded.
She nodded along with Omoi and Karui" lead the way then…."
(Scene change time skip)
(Location: somewhere in lighting country territory)
The two teams have traveled for hours over the country to find the Akatsuki base of the region. They have joined forces with the ninja of Kumo in order to the find the threat of the organization and stop them from capturing their target which apparently was Yugito. Their goal was to find them before they could reach Kumo, keeping in mind the security and stability of the village both have something in common and that was forces had Akatsuki as the same enemy. None have said a word to the other since they left the hidden cloud village focusing only on the mission they hoped to find the members of the organization to wherever they were heading. They were traveling on a mountain path filled with rocky landscapes they have probably reached a far region of the country. They didn't have a problem running focusing chakra on their feet this mission was very important for both parties.
Karui and Omoi were very focused on the mission more than they regular do when they are doing other missions, this was an exception. Their teacher Killer Bee is a jinchurikki and it won't be long before Akatsuki will come after him, messing with their teacher was personal they have their own grudge against the criminal organization. They weren't planning in losing him they have heard what happens to a jinchurikki when his Bijuu is extracted hearing the cruel fate of a demon container made them very upset they will fight to protect those who are important and close to them. Samui was also focusing on the mission she was just following orders from the Raikage but it didn't meant she didn't care, of course she cares Kumo is her village and she held everyone in it worth fighting and protecting for.
Naruto was dying to find the two members Hidan and Kakuzu the sooner he did the sooner Ino will no longer suffer and she might lift her hatred towards him. Of course he wasn't expecting that she will no longer hate him he deserved to be hated by her for causing her the pain of losing Asuma. Every time she glares at him was a fatal blow to his heart it made him cry, but there was no time to shed any tears this mission was very important. The only thing he could do is help the Yamanaka with her revenge and he swore on his title as a ninja that he wasn't going to fail and let the zombie duo escaped like last time.
Ino was dying in anticipation if they do find the Akatsuki hideout she knew her revenge will be very near to fulfill her hatred for the Akatsuki duo was increasing with each step she took. Her vengeance was going to be sweet indeed but one thing in mind that it won't be satisfying traveling with these people she only saw them as a nuisance that will get in her way from fulfilling her task. This was her fight her revenge she alone should be the one to eliminate the threat, especially Hidan just hearing his name made her blood boil she couldn't wait to meet him face to face. She will avenge her teacher if it's the last thing she'll do that was a promise she has made to herself.
Sakura was annoyed and worried for various reasons, first she was still concern for Ino knowing that she was still full of hatred wanting to get revenge. The second was Samui she couldn't believe they were in the middle of an important mission and here she was getting jealous at some big breast kunoichi who is very attractive, in addition that Naruto could have flirted with her and maybe something else. She shook her head from any indecent thoughts that will invade her mind regarding her leader and the blond bombshell she trusted him but she couldn't help it, for now she will only focus on the mission rather than her own jealousy. She looked over the blond jinchurikki and the Yamanaka she was really worried for her and it was worst that both of them were in pain, if there was something she could do to make them feel better.
Hinata was probably as worried as Sakura or maybe even more she could feel the tension growing between her friends. Her pale eyes softened thinking about her leader and teammate both Naruto and Ino are very close to her, to see them like this was a painful blow to her. They were a team they should face everything together they didn't have to suffer like this it wasn't right, Ino was suffering because Asuma's death, Naruto because of the guilt and the girl's hatred towards him. She wanted to do something for them but there was nothing she could do there's no I in team they should face this together it would scared her that these actions will lead to team's break up. She wasn't going to let the teams dynamic to fall apart their friendship, and eventually their bond.
Naruto looked ahead holding the map of the Akatsuki's hide outs from all over the five elemental countries he nodded recognizing the locations on the map. He signaled his team to stop as they halted on the ground, Samui's team followed shortly. They were standing in front of a large wall made of rocks it looked like a long mountain.
"This is it, according to the map the Akatsuki base should be behind that wall."
Omoi blink in surprise" but this is the Scourge valley…."
"Yeah this whole place is completely dead how they can be here?" replied Karui not believing the mask mercenary.
"It makes sense" Samui said getting their attention" the Scourge valley is the driest and most deserted region in lighting country there's hardly any water, no plant life and neither animal life. No ordinary person would be able to survive here under these conditions it's the perfect place for Akatsuki to have a secret hideout."
"I guess Kumo wouldn't suspect a thing about this place been a potential Akatsuki hide out because of those conditions" said Sakura while the busty kunoichi nodded.
"We haven't gathered enough data on Akatsuki we only know what the other villages know, that they are an organization of S rank missing nins and they're after the jinchurikkis" Omoi said.
Naruto nodded closing the map" Mistress scout ahead."
Hinata nodded activating her byakugan" there's a long path behind the wall straight ahead."
"What really?" said the surprised Omoi.
"I guess this is the place after all…." replied Karui she was also impressed like her teammate.
Samui was staring at the masked kunoichi' how did she do that….she saw right through that wall. I think that's one of the abilities of the Hyuga bloodline the byakugan, she must be from the Hyuga clan then' she remembered a long time ago Kumo was after the byakugan in order to strengthen their military forces.
She has heard about the rumors that the forces of hidden cloud attempted to kidnapped a member of the Hyuga clan, most of the population from Kumo didn't believed it saying it was all rubbish from Konoha. But she knew it wasn't a lie from the leaf because they had sent men to supposedly negotiate a future alliance with Konoha that was just a disguised to hide their true motives. Back then she was just thirteen and a genin soon to become a chunin she knew the truth and the cloud's council intentions to hide the truth that they sent their men to steal the byakugan and learn its secrets. They remained in the shadows and pretended that they wanted to become allies with the leaf they demanded for the murder of one of their ninja to be brought to justice. In the end an innocent life was taken just for the sake of not having a war with cloud, it was from that moment that she started secretly admiring Konoha for the sacrifice to keep the peace they are having till these day.
Hinata walked towards the rock hard wall looking at it with her bloodline" the path seems long it will take us inside the mountain, but I don't see any enemy presence no chakra signatures whatsoever…."
"They could be hiding the cowards" glared Ino.
"They probably know that we're here" said Sakura.
"We have no choice but to risk it, Mistress where's the door?" replied Naruto.
"Right here it's a large gate and I don't see any seal tags in it, I don't know how to open it though" the Hyuga heiress pointed to the center of the wall.
The blond jinchurikki grinned" not to worry we have the perfect key to open it Huntress if you please."
"Right leave it to me!"
Hinata moved out of the way in a heartbeat as the pink haired medic made her left fist glowed with a lot of chakra, she charged straight at the same spot where the Hyuga kunoichi pointed punching it.
"Hell yeah!"
The contact from the punch was so strong that it destroyed the secret gate to pieces leaving a large hole in the middle, when the dust lifted there was a long path leading straight inside. The sight caused the Kumo's group some reactions Omoi stood with his mouth wide open dropping his lollipop for the second time, Karui was shocked and she felt like she didn't wanted to have the masked kunoichi for an opponent. As for Samui she didn't reacted but she was impressed what she can do no doubt that the mask mercenary's team weren't push over, they are a force to be reckoned with.
'She's strong….'
"There we go when it comes to open doors Huntress is the best key, great job as always" replied the whiskered blond.
Sakura smiled her mask allowed to hide the blush on her cheeks because of the complement.
'Kitsune-sama wasn't kidding when he said that they are strong' thought Karui.
'It's a good thing Karui is not that strong or she will kill me every time she will hit me' thought a scared Omoi.
"Let's go but let's be cautious" replied the blond jinchurikki.
They group entered the cave walking the long path that will hopefully will lead them to the Akatsuki hideout they were on their guard in case this was a trap. The chances were high as well that they could suspect that there were here making the mission success rate a little low, they took their steps calmly without rushing in. Ino was the only one who was being very inpatient she wanted to get there already so she could finally fight the two Akatsukis but she was also getting anxious to get there, she didn't care about any traps or ambushes. Hinata kept her byakugan activated looking ahead while the mask team was counting on her to report.
"We're almost there" replied the Hyuga heiress.
"Get ready team" Naruto said as Sakura nodded and Ino was ready to charge at anything that comes in her way.
"Right" replied the pink haired kunoichi.
"Stand ready you two we might get into a serious fight" Samui said while Omoi and Karui nodded holding on the handles of their katanas.
"I can see it…."
"You reached the hideout?" asked the whiskered blond.
"I did but…."
"But what?" shouted an irritated Ino.
"What is it Mistress?" asked a concerned Sakura.
"What's wrong?" asked Omoi.
Ino finally had it she ran charging towards the hide out.
"Temptress wait!"
"The hide out is empty" she finally replied.
"What?" Naruto gasped.
The group decided to run heading further ahead until reaching a large space which it was very wide, there was nothing on sight just the rocks that formed part of the hide out. They spotted the Yamanaka not too far from them with her back turned to them she stood quiet without moving a muscle. Naruto felt angry and shocked at the same time now he knew that Akatsuki wasn't here which it will be horrible news to him and to Ino. Sakura and Hinata looked at their leader and their teammate with worried expressions knowing that both of them won't take this well both were hoping to meet the members of the organization here so they can finally finish their mission.
"What this place is empty?" Karui said looking around.
Samui got on one knee touching the surface" the ground is very cold, it seems no one hasn't been here in a long time…."
"Looks like Akatsuki hasn't been using this hideout for a while" said Omoi.
"Great just our damn luck" growled the ebony kunoichi.
"Kitsune-kun are you all right?" asked the worried Hinata.
"I'm fine Mistress don't worry about me" the whiskered blond gave a fake smile 'its Ino the person we should be worrying about….'
"Damn we came all the way here for nothing" said Karui.
"Not quite we know now that this is an Akatsuki hide out, Raikage-sama will definitely order to demolish this place it will be one less hideout they will be using" replied the busty Kumo kunoichi.
"I guess one good thing came from this journey here" whispered Sakura.
"Where the hell are they?" shouted an enraged Ino she glared at Naruto walking to him.
"Temptress…."
"You said they were going to be here!"
"I'm sorry Temptress but I was wrong…."
"Once again you failed!" she shouted with so much anger.
"Temptress calm down nothing good will come by screaming at Kitsune-sama" Sakura said trying to calm her teammate.
"I'm right you failed again just like that time that you let those Akatsukis escaped, the same Akatsukis that killed Asuma sensei, what a failure of a leader you turn out to be!"
"Temptress!" the pink haired kunoichi got upset at her harsh comment se tightened her fists.
"It's all right Huntress let's just leave it like this, we should leave this place no need in staying here anymore" replied Naruto feeling his heart ache again because of the Yamanaka's hurtful words.
The Kumo team had watched everything and they were shocked to see a member of Kitsune Flash's talked so coldly to her own leader, it proves that they were having some problems. An onflict that might risk the team's dynamic and development it destroy the team forever.
'She's acting worst than Karui when she's angry' thought Omoi looking at Ino.
"Come along you two" Samui followed the masked team back to the path leading outside of the secret hide out the two Kumo swordsmen followed her shortly.
(Scene change)
The two teams have left the wall like mountain going back to where they started they didn't know Akatsuki's location. Omoi and Karui didn't looked too thrill about the results Samui's expression was pretty much normal, at least they knew of the location of one of their hide outs. For now this will do at least it was better than nothing, they will move on and resume their mission. However the same thing couldn't be said about Ino she has taken her distance from the team not wanting to look at her leader's face, she was so angry that they haven't found the two Akatsukis. Searching here was a waste of time and what's wrong she made a mistake by trusting Naruto that they will find them in the hide out of lighting country. She was so angry with him right now lifting her hopes up that she will finally have her revenge, but now he failed her just like the rest of the team.
Sakura and Hinata had joined up with their leader both were in deep thought they knew they had to do something about this. Watching both Naruto and Ino keeping their distance from the other was such a hurtful sight, Naruto didn't wanted to get closer to her because he knew she was angry with him and the Yamanaka she didn't wanted to see his face it reminds her his failure, both of them. If things keep up it won't be long now before the team could break apart, losing their bond was a great risk. Hurting each other wasn't going to solve anything especially fulfilling the mission, but it wasn't the mission that matters the most to the two kunoichis. They went to the whiskered blond who was staring at Ino but the blond kunoichi was completely ignoring him, looking in another direction.
"What are we going to do now?" asked Karui.
"We keep on searching this mission wasn't meant to be easy" replied Naruto.
Samui was gazing at the sky seeing the sun down" it will be dark in a few hours I suggest we travel west and camp for the night."
"Camp for the night I would prefer a nice room in an inn" said Omoi.
"Stop whining we don't have the luxury!" snapped the ebony kunoichi.
"Camping for the night sounds nice, don't you agree Temptress?" Sakura gazed at her teammate.
Ino didn't say a word she passed her and walked out leaving the group she wasn't happy.
'Ino-san….' thought Hinata.
The blond jicnhurikki sighed" come on let's go team."
As they started walking out Karui was next to Omoi and Samui was on the front.
"What's with her?" she was obviously referring to the Yamanaka.
"Beats me she really seems to have a grudge of hatred for Akatsuki."
"She's acting really cold towards Kitsune-sama and his team, it's like she hates them."
"She doesn't look like teammate material if you ask me" replied the dark skinned swordsman while she nodded in agreement.
"Less talking more walking" Samui interrupted the two she has obviously heard their conversation" it's inappropriate to linger in matters that doesn't concern us."
Both cloud ninjas nodded they have finally decided to stay quiet resuming their traveling. Unfortunately for the three they never noticed that someone has heard them talking, a kunoichi that it made her angrier to hear their words.
(Scene change time skip)
(Location: Okumi forest lighting country territory)
It has finally grown dark and the group has made camp to stay for the night. The Kumo team has come well prepare bringing their equipment knowing that this mission will take them days to fulfill depending how fast they will move, right now they needed the rest after the long journey from the Scourge valley. The camp fire was already done and the mask team had eaten some of the food they have brought during their travels while the Kumo team has hunted a brown rabbit, although it was a pretty sight. Some of the kunoichis like Sakura and Hinata didn't liked the fact that they have killed an innocent creature and use it as food, but it was all about survival while camping in the wilderness they have been taught that at the academy. Omoi and Karui were truly enjoying the meal while Samui ate calmly, she didn't eat as much as her two companions though.
Naruto was seated on a tree trunk his eyes were fixed on the fire he was obviously in deep thought, thinking about someone. Ino has took off to wash up and relax leaving him with his other team members Sakura and Hinata didn't looked happy either, they were feeling concerned but most of all they were hurt. The Yamanaka's behavior has torn them apart and it was starting to feel that it wasn't the same anymore since they were formed as team Kitsune Flash. Guilt and heart ache were killing him while his two other friends were worried sick about him and the blond kunoichi it seems that their friendship and their bond was at stake. Yet if they doesn't help her have her revenge then they will be failing her and Ino would never lived with herself for not fulfilling it, she will blame them for it even hate them. So they were pretty much in a situation where they didn't have a choice the two kunoichis knew that, although the blond jinchurikki wants justice for Asuma too.
"Would you like some green tea Kitsune-kun?" Hinata offered him some she was the one that made it.
"No thanks Mistress I'm fine…."
"You sound so out of it" Sakura replied with concern in her tone.
"I said I'm fine….I just want to finish this mission that's all."
The Hyuga heiress got seated next to him" we know that's not it…."
"You're obviously going through a lot because of this mission and Ino, you feel like it's your duty to see this till the end. Don't feel like it's up to you that she has to stop those Akatsuki" the pink haired medic followed getting seated next to him, the only difference she moved on closer to him making eye contact with the tall blond.
"I must….for her sake and mine as well."
"You make it sound like it was your fault about Asuma sensei it wasn't you know that, we both know that so please don't blame yourself anymore" the Hyuga heiress put her hand on his shoulder.
"Or more precise don't blame yourself for Ino's sake, don't feel like you have to hate yourself for his death. It won't make you feel better and it won't make her feel better either" the pink haired kunoichi put her hand on his other shoulder.
"We both care for you guys and we don't want any of you suffering anymore, we will do whatever it takes to help you through this we're a team, after all" Hinata finished with a smile.
Naruto smiled" you two…..I couldn't asked for a better team thanks I will do my best I promise."
"Feeling pain is not the answer, take it from me I know" Sakura remembered what she went through after he snapped at her.
"I know that Sakura believe me but I have to make Ino see that revenge is not the answer, in order to do that I have to help her face the Akatsuki or rather Hidan. She has to realize that killing him won't bring Asuma back this is the only way I guess…."
"But will she be able to do it you said that he can't be killed?" replied the Hyuga kunoichi.
"Quite frankly she can't but trust me she won't care as long as she gets to draw blood from him."
"I guess you have a point" said Sakura.
Samui was staring at them hearing the entire conversation just by looking at them she could tell that they were very close. Their friendship and bond was very strong or perhaps there was something else behind all that caring and concern she has never such a display of tender love before, except for the Raikage brotherly love with Bee. She went back to mind her own business giving a small smile to the team, secretly they have earned her trust and respect.
"Damn it Karui that part is mine!" shouted an annoyed Omoi.
"And I told you that I'm still hungry so I'm taking the biggest part of the rabbit, you take the leftovers."
"You're such a glutton" he muttered.
His comment earned him a smack from the ebony kunoichi she was giving him a comical expression" what was that?"
"I'm eating the leftovers…."
"That's what I thought" Karui took a big bite from the cooked rabbit.
"It's not fair."
"Hey you should know to always treat a lady" she spoke with her mouth full very un lady like.
"Who said that you were a lady I only see a flat chest grouch with a high temper?"
WHAM!
Karui has smacked Omoi giving him another large lump on the head as she resumed her eating everyone else was watching the whole thing with a sweat dropped.
'Those two are at it again' thought Naruto.
'They are worst than a married couple' Sakura gave a sigh.
Samui sighed' that's it I'm taking a break from these two….'
She got up from her sitting position walked towards the masked team's spot" do you mind if I sit here?"
"Not at all Samui we're all allies here" replied the whiskered blond.
"Thank you."
She got seated in front of them while Sakura and Hinata were once again giving her the jealous eye this time Naruto noticed it just by reading their slightly increased in their chakra. He got worried for a moment he didn't wanted nothing wrong to happen between them especially when they were sharing the same mission, not to mention a future alliance between Kumo and Konoha.
'Oh boy I better stay calm it's all about business not pleasure.'
"Kitsune-sama do you know where those Akatsukis might be?"
"Honestly I think that they believed we don't know that they are here so either they will try to infiltrate Kumo or they will probably be waiting for Yugito-san to be sent on a mission, it will be the perfect moment for them to strike when she will be on her own."
She nodded" as long as Yugito stays in the village she doesn't risk any danger, I guess Bee will also be safe."
"I don't think he's in any danger, at least not yet. Members of Akatsuki are usually given a specific jinchurikki for a target if they successfully capture him then they will be given another target. Hidan and Kakuzu have been assigned to capture the two tails first so they will go after Yugito-san before going after another jinchurikki."
"We won't let them take Yugito-san" Sakura said.
"We will protect her and the remaining jinchurikkis" replied Hinata.
"You have quite a determine team" the busty kunoichi smiled.
Naruto gave his fox grin" you haven't seen anything yet once you get the chance to see them in battle."
Samui stood quiet as she started rubbing her shoulders once again she was feeling them hurting, in addition that her back was giving her some trouble she really wanted this pain to end. Sakura was the first to notice something was wrong with the blond kunoichi from Kumo as a medic she could tell with one quick glance.
"What's wrong Samui?"
"My shoulders they feel so stiff they hurt I don't know why this is happening?"
"Probably because of her huge tits" the Kyuubi gave a grin.
'You got that right fox….'
The pink haired kunoichi nodded' I see if her shoulders are feeling such stiffness then it must be the excess weight on her chest.'
"Those big boobs are probably heavy!"
"Don't concern yourself with me I'll be fine, however I could really use one of your shoulder massages Kitsune-sama."
"Shoulder massages….?" Sakura frowned at her leader while Hinata was staring at him probably not with the same expression but with the same jealousy glint.
"Kitsune-kun….?"
'Uh oh I have to play it cool.'
"Heh looks like your vixens are on to you brat."
'Quiet you….'
The busty kunoichi nodded" Kitsune-sama was kind enough to give me a shoulder massage when he came to the village last time, it really help the pain.
"Really that's so kind of him?" the pink haired medic was staring at her leader hiding her anger and jealousy.
'Kitsune-kun has never given us a shoulder massage except for a foot massage' thought a hurt Hinata.
'They're angry why it has to happen now?' thought the blond jinchurikki with a sweat dropped.
"It's okay Samui how about if I give you the shoulder massage?" Sakura said from out of nowhere.
"What….?" Naruto was really taken back by the question.
"It will be all right I don't want to bother you…."
"I insist I'm a medic so I know exactly which muscles I have to massage trust me."
'What is Sakura-san planning?' Hinata thought.
'I have a bad feeling about this' Naruto gave a gulp.
"I appreciate" said Samui feeling relief.
The pink haired medic smiled as she went to her and started massaging her shoulder Samui quickly was relax feeling good at the massage. However it only took ten seconds for the pink haired kunoichi to realize the real reason to why her leader gave her the shoulder massage in the first place. As she was standing massaging her shoulders Sakura had a front row ticket to get an amazing view of Samui's cleavage she was clearly able to see her voluptuous breasts through her mesh armor. It didn't take a genius that it was the only logical explanation to why the blond jinchurikki would offer such act of kindness.
'No wonder he bothered himself with giving her the shoulder massage, that pervert!'
"I can see her huge boobs from up here!" inner Sakura gave a freak out scream.
The whiskered blond gave another gulp he had a bad feeling seeing his team member's mouth turning into a frown' I hope she hasn't notice….'
Sakura gave her leader a fake smile hiding her anger" I'm sure Kitsune-sama must have enjoyed doing this to you Samui."
"Really I don't know about that?" the busty blond was completely oblivious that anyone who gives her a shoulder a massage can clearly see her breasts.
'She does know!' Naruto sweat dropped trying not to freak out.
Hinata still didn't had a clue what was going on with the whole shoulder massage thing she was feeling a bit jealous that her blond love hasn't given her one yet. Maybe after they finish this mission she can ask him to give her one because seeing Samui's expression she could tell it felt very good, maybe even better than a foot massage.
'I think I'm going to have a talk with Naruto after this mission is over' Sakura was still staring at the blond jinchurikki with jealousy and anger in her jade eyes.
(Scene change)
Ino has gotten dressed after taking a bath in the small river not too far from the team's camp site. She was wearing her uniform minus her cloak and her mask she was in deep, the team and the mission was getting in her way of her goal. Her revenge is the only thing that matters her only concern the Akatsuki was going to pay, she has sworn to bring them down even if it was the last thing she do. She has seated in a couple of rocks picking up the rest of her uniform, her mask and cloak she stood staring at the clothing with a far off expression. It wasn't the uniform that had her in deep thought but rather she was thinking about her former teacher every single memory that she has spend with team ten has come to her mind, the memories where Asuma was present with his team when she was a genin. The times the Sarutobi has become s role model and a good teacher, however her sky blue eyes softened remembering one memory that has brought pain to her heart and most of all the feeling the guilt.
The twelve year old Ino was walking the streets of Konoha heading to her team's favorite hanging spot which is Yakiniku's BBQ restaurant, there was another team meeting. She had to sigh ever since she have been put in a genin team she has been doing nothing but D rank mission, they were silly and most of the time she will end getting dirty ruining her clothes or her hair. She needed to keep her looks to the maximum level of beautiful if she wanted to conquer Sasuke's heart and defeat her rival Sakura nothing was going to get in her from claiming the Uchiha. She finally arrived at the restaurant spotting her teacher Asuma seated in one of grill tables which it was the usual where the team usually seats. She went to him feeling a little taken back because the Sarutobi was alone her other two teammates weren't present, it surprised her because they always show up on time making her feel that something was wrong.
"Hey Asuma sensei?" she smiled greeting the jounin.
The smoking ninja smiled" hey Ino glad to see you early…."
"I am early right so what's the deal where are Shikamaru and Chouji?"
"Actually Ino this isn't exactly a team meeting so I didn't call them, I need to speak with only you."
"With me what is it?" she was really taken back.
"It's about your training?"
"Training….?"
"It's important that you take more of your time to develop your skills, training has always been an important asset in a ninja's life and you're no exception it's more important for you take training more seriously than usual. As a kunoichi it's important that you start gaining experience in taijutsu, I can help you in both taijutsu and ninjutsu as for genjutsu, maybe I can ask Kurenai to help you in that area."
"You want to help me in my training okay I get it, but not to be rude or anything but can you take Shikamaru and Chouji first?"
The Sarutobi sighed" well Shikamaru I'm still having some trouble trying to get him to train he doesn't have any motivation, he's just lazy the only thing he seem to taken an interested is playing shogi. And Chouji he has his dad to help him with his training the Akamichi's clan style of taijutsu is different from regular taijutsu basis, so there's nothing I can do."
The bleach blond nodded" so that's why you're focusing on me?"
"Right the Yamanaka clan are not experts in taijutsu only in their clan ninjutsu, I want to help you gain the knowledge and the strength to learn taijutsu and maybe some other ninjutsu. Who knows you might become the first Yamanaka to be very exceptional in both ninja fighting style, what do you say want to train with me?"
"I think I'm strong enough as I am now…."
"There's always room for improvement" he replied before smiling an idea crossed his mind" Ino I guarantee you if you take my training you'll get stronger than Sakura."
"I'm already stronger than forehead I can take her on with problem" she thought of her rival of course she could beat her.
"Come on Ino this training is important for you it might help you become someone strong in the future, this can also help the team you'll be doing this for Shikamaru and Chouji what do you say?"
The Yamanaka was in deep thought taking her teacher's words processing them in her mind, did she really wanted this training from Asuma. Training was important for everyone who becomes a ninja it makes them strong but that wasn't her ideal goal there was only one thing, one person she wanted Sasuke. Training meant that she will get dirty and she will probably eat so much that she might ruin her perfect diet she wanted to keep her figure in check. She may be a kunoichi but in her heart she was just another fan girl who wants the Uchiha for herself and beat her rival Sakura in claiming him, she has made her mind clearly she didn't wanted this to her she didn't need it. She gazed at the Sarutobi who eagerly waited for her answer he was staring to get anxious, maybe because he was looking forward to training her. To him it was the perfect test to prove that he was a good teacher and leader to a genin team, since he was still working on it.
"Look Asuma sensei I'm flattered that you're taking your time to give me training but I….I remember that I have a busy schedule and a busy week too. You know that I work on my mom's flower shop she has asked me to work almost the entire day, so I can't take your offer…."
The Sarutobi raised an eyebrow" I'm sure you can talk to your mom about it, this is training I believe she won't have a problem with it she knows that's you're a ninja now."
"I could but she has a bad temper and she's always very demanding once she sets her mind on something it's impossible to convince her. She told me she wants me working on her shop during the entire week so I pretty much don't have a choice but to obey her, but thanks for the offer."
"But Ino…."
"Well I better get going I have to start my shift at the flower shop right now, bye Asuma sensei" she got up from the table and left the restaurant leaving a disappointed Asuma behind.
Bye now Ino was in tears remembering that painful day' I lied to him on that day about working on the flower shop the entire day, I didn't wanted to be train by him. I was so shallow damn it he was willing to give me training and I rejected his offer, I completely blew it in his face….'
She tightened her fists in anger and sorrow' now I will never be able to tell him that I was so proud to be part of his team, I was happy he was my teacher. I hate them so much those Akatsuki bastards I hate them to death, I promise on Asuma sensei's name that I will avenge him that son of a bitch Hidan will pay dearly for this!'
She got up from the rocks taking her cloak and mask he took a long gaze at the river, hoping that next time she takes a regular shower than bathing in a river. Without looking back anymore she left heading back to the camp site revenge was in her mind more than ever, the memory of Asuma was vivid constantly thinking of him. She also thought of the people responsible for his death she has vowed to bring justice by her own hand on the two Akatsuki members. Her eyes were so cold like emotion has died from them she had a mission a personal mission indeed, vengeance was calling her and she wasn't going to ignore the call but heed it.
(Scene change)
Ino was walking the small forest that leads back to the camp site with the thought of fulfilling revenge for good in her mind she has finally waited long enough she needed to take action now. It was clear that was her resolve this mission wasn't getting anywhere who knows how long it will take them to find the two Akatsuki members probably days, weeks even months. She only needed to focus on one thing instead of the people that surrounds her, she didn't care about them too much was at stake to let things stay the same. Reaching the open field where the camp site was located she was surprised to see Naruto, Sakura and Hinata the trio like here weren't wearing their masks and hood, their expressions was enough. They were smiling at her probably trying to find a way to cheer her up, the sight angered her because they will fail again nothing they say will make her happy only the death of Hidan would put a smile on her face.
"Were you three waiting for me?" she asked rudely.
"We were a little worried you haven't returned from washing up" replied Hinata.
"I'm fine you guys got worried for nothing…."
"We're suppose to worry about our friends, there's nothing wrong with worrying over the team" said Sakura.
Naruto nodded smiling" let's go back Ino we have a busy day tomorrow."
The Yamanaka lowered her head" I'm not going…."
"What?" the blond jinchurikki turned to her along with the two kunoichis.
"For a while I have done everything you asked of, I have followed your orders travel with you but nothing has changed. This mission has taken too long and there hasn't been any progress at all but what I would expect from you, I can't find Asuma sensei's murder if I kept traveling with someone who has failed as a leader."
Naruto has once again felt another painful blow to his heart because of the Yamanaka's harsh comment he started doubting his skills as a team leader once again. It hurt him bad he was expecting she was going to continue hating him for the pain he caused her he wasn't going to shed tears he has gotten tire of doing that ever since he was little due to his tormented childhood. The way the bleach blond was glaring at him felt like getting stabbed by a thousand shark kunais it hurt that much, it seems he has failed to help her heal her pain.
Sakura and Hinata were shocked at the comment the blond was hurting Naruto again, yet it was another blow for them. Hurt because she was so full of hatred, for only having revenge as her only life goal, for hurting their trusted leader and precious person and for being someone she wasn't. It came to their minds how long she was going to continue acting like this, how long was she planning in hurting the people that care so much for her. The answer was simple until she kills Hidan and takes her revenge and by then she would have already hurt herself, feeling the guilt and the heart ache the result of revenge always lead to more pain and hatred. Of course the pink haired medic and her leader knew about that remembering their third teammate and former friend Sasuke, how his life was turned upside down becoming a living hell of revenge and in the end he betrayed his friends and his village to get the power he needed to fulfill it at all cost.
"Now hold on Ino-"Sakura started but she was interrupted by the blond jinchurikki.
"Let me handle this Sakura, I know I haven't been doing a good job I know that Ino. But believe me I am really trying I can't wait until we find them I want you to take justice for Asuma , Hidan and Kakuzu must pay…."
"You haven't been trying hard enough I can see it with the way you have wasted time resting here and even before we arrived at Kumo you suggested we take another rest. What's worst you put more people in this mission when the Raikage send those three stooges to accompany us?"
"Look you can say whatever you like to me but others I will not tolerate you disrespecting them, Samui and her team are among Kumo's elite group they are one of the strongest team in the hidden cloud forces."
"it's all right you won't have to worry about me disrespecting any of you because I finally realize I will never have my revenge traveling with so many people, I have to this on my own nothing good will come being with any of you…."
Sakura's lowered lip tremble from the shock she was feeling like déjà vu all over again with a certain Uchiha" Ino….what are you saying?"
Her cold eyes glared at the trio" I'm leaving to go after Akatsuki, I quit the team from now on Kitsune Temptress is dead."
"You can't be serious Ino-san is this some kind of joke?" Hinata seemed to be more shock than the pink haired kunoichi.
"You don't mean that I don't believe you?" Sakura has let a couple of tears fall.
"Believe what you want to I have made my decision I have enough time to think about this and this is the only way."
"Then you need more time to think about because you can think about other better ways than leaving your friends to go after two S rank missing nins, just to have revenge!" the pink haired medic shouted her tears weren't stopping.
The Yamanaka couldn't helped but chuckle at her comment" I knew it, it's just as I thought you guys would never understand me none of you will understand the pain I'm going through this gives me the more reason to leave. How can I stay with people who won't acknowledge my need for revenge, if you can't understand my pain then you don't understand me at all?"
"We're not just people we're your friends, your teammates that care for you a lot!" she shouted desperately trying to get through to her.
"Sakura-san is right you're very important to us Ino-san, we're close have you forgotten our friendship?" by now Hinata was also in tears.
"Or our bond" added the pink haired kunoichi.
"You….friends?" Ino started laughing like she has heard a funny joke" you're not friends you're just excess baggage all of you, just a couple of dead weight getting in the way of my revenge!"
The trio was shocked and horrified hearing those words coming from their dear teammate. Sakura and Hinata were still in tears their hearts were shattered when they heard Ino's cold words they couldn't believe their close friend had said such words. Naruto felt worse than the two kunoichis just looking at the Yamanaka it felt like staring at another version of Sasuke remembering how desperate and enraged he got when he wanted his revenge on Itachi so badly, the thought really scared him. He felt she was slipping by his side drifting away from him and his team he knew it well he was losing her and it seems that his team couldn't convince her to change her mind he was going to fail yet again.
"How….how could you say that?" Sakura was shocked her heart broken.
"I don't need any of you, you're all getting in my way I don't need no one this is my fight my revenge none of you can't follow me" her tone was harsh and cold.
"So you want us to abandon you Ino-san" sobbed Hinata.
"It's for the best…."
"No you're wrong" Naruto finally spoke" what's best is for you to stay with us and let us help you get through this as a team, the right way it should be not on your own. Ino please listen to us don't do this you're walking into the same darkness that took over Sasuke, having revenge as a life goal will only leave you with more pain it won't make you feel better look what happened to him revenge is all Sasuke has ever known and now his life is filled with hatred and grief and he can't let that go, he can't move on and start all over again the right way."
"I'm not asking you as the leader of team Kitsune Flash but as a friend that cares for you so I beg of you don't go, stay with us and let's keep our friendship strong as it has always been. We will help you beat Akatsuki and bring justice to Asuma….together."
The Yamanaka stood quiet without moving from her spot before she took a couple of steps towards him. Her expression was blank none of them couldn't tell what was going on in her head they thought she will listen to reason and do the right thing in staying with them. She was closer to the whiskered blond while he was waiting for her answer he never saw what was coming next.
SLAP!
The blond jinchurikki was caught off guard with shock as his left cheek was assaulted by a slap from the blond kunoichi. Sakura and Hinata gasped at what they have just witnessed they couldn't believed their eyes here they thought Ino will make the right choice but instead she has taken another step into the wrong path, into the darkness. Naruto touched his hurt cheek which it was marked red from the Yamanaka's hand staring at her with pain and heart break, he really didn't saw that coming he was more hurt than shocked.
"Ino….?"
She glared at him" don't you give me any of that bullshit bring justice to Asuma sensei, don't act so highly like you're a judge passing down the law of what's right or wrong. Have you forgotten that it was your fault he got killed, because of you being a demon container they went to him and killed him?"
"I haven't forgotten that's why I want to help you in finding them no matter what, I really do."
"I can't even look at you anymore, looking at you is like looking at Asuma sensei's murder you disgust me you freak…."
"I have to admit that she's really acting like a bitch and she's treating you lower than shit" replied the Kyuubi who was feeling a little of sympathy for his container even if her ignored him.
"Ino-san please stop!" Hinata cried she was still in tears.
"Shut up and stay out of this!"
Sakura was really upset with her behavior and the way she has crushed Naruto's heart like he was worth nothing she couldn't take it anymore, she has finally reached her limit with her friend and teammate. It shocked her, the most along with Hinata that a small tear has escaped from the whiskered blonds' right eye he was still staring at the blond kunoichi.
"Ino….if I'm a freak for loving you then I'm glad to be a freak."
His comment has caused a reaction in the two kunoichis both felt the emotion in the tone of his voice they were touched. Even if Sakura was upset she couldn't helped but give a smile next to the Hyuga heiress for a moment they felt the tension between them decreasing, like things were going to return to normal. Ino has let a tear fell from her left cheek she was still glaring, it's like his comment has touched her soul and her heart. She felt like snapping from back to reality however her desire for revenge was bigger and stronger than her own reason and she has shrugged Naruto's words like they meant nothing to her.
"Thanks for admitting that you're a freak I'm very happy that I'm leaving this sorry lot, if you two want to continue working for the mask freak then be my guest. You two can join him in the freak show for all I care!"
She finally gave him the coldest expression he has ever seen from her" Uzumaki Naruto….I ha-"
SLAP!
The Yamanaka was taken back from the slap she has received, her right cheek was assaulted. She was enraged the mark of the person's hand was very clear on her cheek she glared at the one responsible. Staring at Sakura who still had her hand raise from the slap she just gave, her face was still in tears but anyone could tell that she wasn't happy with the blond kunoichi. Naruto and Hinata were shocked from the display they never saw this coming and just in the nick of time when Ino was about to tell the whiskered blond three words that would forever crush his heart. The pink haired kunoichi was holding her ground from the cold glare she was receiving from the bleach blond.
"You….you have some nerve."
"Enough you're not allow to hurt him anymore do you hear me I won't let you?"
"Sakura it's all right" Naruto tried to assure that it was fine and he did deserve the treatment he has received from the Yamanaka.
"No it's not all right I have had it with the way she's been treating you, you don't deserve any of this it wasn't your fault."
"It's true Ino-san what you've been doing to Naruto-kun is wrong hating him for Asuma sensei's death he doesn't deserves all that hatred. I'm sure Kurenai sensei will never blame him she would understand that he died in the line of duty like any other ninja protecting their village" replied Hinata.
"Most importantly what you've been doing in order to get rid of the pain you're feeling is wrong. Putting all your hatred on Naruto that won't make you feel better, it's the other way around it will make you feel worst" said the pink haired medic.
"What the hell do you know about me?" shouted the enraged Ino.
"More than you know yourself, trust me Ino when you realize your mistake it's going to hurt you more than the pain Naruto is feeling right now. You should feel flatter that he volunteered to be your personal punching bag for your hatred blaming himself for Asuma sensei's death, he didn't care how much you will hurt him he only wanted to get rid of the pain you're feeling. That's so like him always thinking about others before thinking about himself?"
"I don't care what you say it is his fault, those Akatsuki were heading to Konoha because they were after him and who is the one that paid the consequences Asuma sensei and he had nothing to do with Akatsuki's goals that's why it's his fault?" she pointed her finger at the blond jinchurikki accusing him of the murder.
Hinata shook her head trying to dry her eyes but it was futile" you have really lost yourself in hatred Ino-san you are completely blinded by the rage of having revenge. You no longer can think straight with your anger clouding your judgment."
"Shut up who the hell do you think you are to tell me I'm right or wrong?"
"She's your friend and she's worry sick about you like the rest of us" Sakura replied" open your eyes please look at him Ino look at him!"
The Yamanaka briefly stared at Naruto her eyes met his and she was able to see all the pain he was feeling. All the guilt, the suffering, the grief, the sorrow it felt like she was staring at two round mirrors that were his cerulean eyes. Looking at his eyes hurt her but she didn't wanted to admit she has become too stubborn to acknowledge it, she didn't felt pain for the blond jinchurikki only hatred for him. With the guilt and suffering she was feeling she refused to cry not one single tear she shed, not for them and certainly not for him. Sakura was really hoping that she will finally see her wrongs and wake up from the taste of hatred she has tasted since she heard about Asuma's death, the path she took in revenge. But she had a terrible feeling in her gut that somehow it has fallen on deaf ears she wasn't going to give up that easily.
"Go ahead and look at him take a good look at him, this is the same person who is willing to be hated by you forever if it means that it will heal your pain. He is willing to welcome your hatred not caring that he will get heart broken in the process as long as you feel better and happy, can you see what a great person he is?"
Naruto smiled feeling so grateful to the pink haired kunoichi a couple of tears have emerged, he put his hand on her shoulder" that's enough Sakura I don't think you'll be able to convince her she has made her choice isn't that right Ino?"
"Ino-san please don't go we all care about you leaving isn't the answer, whatever happened to teamwork as a team we're supposed to be together in everything" said the Hyuga heiress.
"We care for you more than you'll ever know" replied Sakura.
"It's up to you Ino you can either choose your friends or revenge. You choose to have revenge and help you carry it together or do it on your own" the whiskered blond was feeling nervous because he already knew what her decision was.
The Yamanaka finally had about enough and glared" everyone….you're all annoying."
Everyone was shocked as the bleach blond turned her back to them" I have wasted too much time hearing your nonsense I'm leaving…."
"No you're not!" shouted Sakura she refused to let her go.
"Are you going to stop me?" she glared at her former friend.
"If I have to then so beat it…."
"Don't get in my way Sakura you will regret it, I'm warning you nicely don't make me do something I might regret later."
"And what will you do?" her face filled with endless tears" hurt me with your harsh words nice try but you have already done more damage to Naruto then you will ever do to me or Hinata, and to prove that he has a heart of gold even after the way you have treated him he will never hate you."
"Enough Sakura" Naruto said smiling at her" thanks but she has made up her mind clearly this is what she wants, as her friends we should respect her decision…."
"Naruto-kun what are you doing?" asked Hinata shocked at his comment.
"You can't be serious" sobbed the pink haired kunoichi.
"Let her leave" his response was so far off there was hurt in his voice.
"But-"
"I said let her go Sakura Hinata that's an order, obey your leader…."
"Yes…." said the Hyuga kunoichi she gave a sob.
Sakura gave a soft nod looking back at the bleach blond nothing she will say to her will change her mind, it was too late she has lost another precious friend to revenge. For a moment every single flashback since she met the Yamanaka has resurfaced remembering everything since they were kids until the most recent memories. Remembering her strong friendship with the Yamanaka her bond with her, the day she was careless and broke her friendship with her for chasing Sasuke. Their fight at the chunin exams all the way to their reconciliation becoming friends again and the promised they made of never breaking their friendship ever again, this time she wasn't going to make a desperate love confession to convince her to stay. She gazed at Naruto who was emotionally destroyed with tears finally emerging he couldn't hold them anymore he was hurting she knew it, the team was crushed their spirit and bond. Without Ino the truth became evident.
Team Kitsune Flash was starting to fall apart and by now the blond kunoichi has left them running until she disappeared into the distance, they didn't realized that she has left her mask and her hood cloak on the ground.
"Naruto-kun you're not going after her?" Hinata gazed at the blond.
"If I do she will hate me even more…."
Sakura hugged him sobbing on his shoulder and the Hyuga heiress soon followed both were sobbing holding their leader trying to calm him down while they were also hurt too. The blond jinchurikki hugged them back letting his tears fall freely his heart was probably shattered into a million pieces.
'She's gone just like Sasuke….no Ino' the pink haired medic felt terrible feeling like she has lost her best friend forever.
(Scene change)
The trio returned to the camp site wearing their mask and their hoods seeing that the Kumo team was still wide awake none of them has said word since Ino left. Omoi looked like he was ready to sleep, Karui was sharpening her katana and Samui was staring at nowhere in particular until she saw them. Her eyes were on the trio she quickly noticed there were one member short she didn't needed to be a genius to know that something was wrong. Their expression from their lips was enough to notice their behavior whatever happened it wasn't pleasant, it seems they were having some issues with the team. She remained quiet not really waiting for an explanation from the mask mercenary but she wasn't the only one who noticed their strange behavior.
"What's wrong?" asked Karui.
"You guys looked like you just left from a funeral" Omoi also noticed.
"Hey Kitsune-sama where's your other teammate?" Karui said quickly realizing there was one member from the team missing.
Looking at them Samui knew none of them was going to talk" Omoi Karui let's leave it like that, if he chooses to tell us we will listen…."
Both swordsmen nodded getting back to what they were doing the masked team has gotten to where they were seated before leaving to find Ino, they were ready to get some rest and resume their mission first thing in the morning. Naruto was in deep thought he was hoping the Yamanaka decides to take some rest before heading out to find the two Akatsuki, like Sakura and Hinata he was thinking that she was all right and well.
Samui suddenly saw something heading their way she quickly recognized the small animal' a messenger lizard….?'
The small lizard made its way towards the busty kunoichi carrying a messenger scroll on its back she quickly picked up and opened it reading it's content' this is….'
"Is that a messenger lizard?" Karui said seeing the animal her question caught the attention of everyone on the camp site.
Naruto saw it he knew it was word from the hidden cloud village" what does it say Samui?"
"It's from Raikage-sama he says that Kumo scouts have spotted two Akatsuki members a few miles away from the vicinity of the village."
"What?" Sakura replied.
"They found them?" said Hinata.
"Where are they?" the blond jinchurikki was determined.
"The coordinates are written in the message" said Samui.
"Everyone gear up we're leaving right now!" he shouted.
Sakura and Hinata didn't need to be told twice as they picked up their things they have already prepared their weapons, they had an idea what their leader was up to. Samui only nodded closing the scroll and preparing her things while Karui sheathed her katana and finished packing, frowning as she spotted her teammate sleeping.
"Omoi wake up we're heading out!" she smacked his head.
The dark skinned ninja sweat dropped waking up" we're leaving already but I'm sleepy?"
"Stop whining and get moving!" she gave him a mean comical expression.
He sighed' and I was looking forward to have a nice nap….'
Once they were done they put out the camp fire and left heading out at full speed putting chakra on their feet.
"Samui tell us the coordinates while we're moving."
She nodded picking up the message scroll while Naruto was staring at the road ahead in thought' no matter what happens I have to find Hidan and Kakuzu before Ino does, she doesn't stand a chance against them.'
(Scene change time skip)
(Location: hallway fire tower Konoha hidden leaf village fire country territory)
Tsunade has finally call it a day after a hard day of work it was a busy day for the slug sanin. A meeting with the council regarding Sasuke's reaction which she has ignored she didn't wanted to think about that now, another meeting with the elders she growled mentally because she had to stare a Danzo's wrinkle mummified face and the worst of all paperwork hell. It made her angry that she didn't have a break to drink some sake or even gamble, which it was illegal for the Hokage to gamble she wondered what she was thinking in becoming a kage. Another thing that annoyed Jiraiya has left the village again to search for information about Akatsuki and Kabuto and he will probably not return for a while after she has finally let the toad sanin in her heart, a ninja's work is never done it seems. Before she reached the room which it was her chambers she felt something, there was someone present which she already knew who it was.
"Report…."
At that instant an ANBU appeared wearing a tiger mask the blond smiled knowing who he was" Tiger its late and I'm about to go to bed, I will take you have some urgent news to tell me."
"Forgive me Tsunade-sama for coming at such hour but I have to tell you about an urgent matter…."
She nodded" about?"
"It's about deer….?" replied the ANBU.
The busty Hokage was surprised to hear his codename" Shikamaru what about him?"
"It's complicated…."
"It's all right you can take off your mask Neji."
He nodded removing the mask revealing the face of the Hyuga prodigy.
"What about Shikamaru why call him by his codename he's not working as an active ANBU for now you know I gave him some time off so he can get over Asuma's death?"
"It was the right thing to do, he needed it and after what happened with him and the team…."
"Neji tell me this urgent matter regarding him he's at his home?"
The Hyuga prodigy stood quiet but he eventually spoke" I'm afraid that's not correct Tsunade-sama."
Her hazel eyes widened" what….what do you mean?"
"Well you see he…."
(Scene change)
(Location: cavern somewhere in lighting country territory)
Ino has finally prepared herself to go on the search for the two Akatsuki it won't be long before she fulfills her revenge she has made up her mind clearly when she left Naruto's team. However deep inside it was hard for her after she, part ways with her leader and her best friends she shed tears she was going to miss them. It took her a couple of minutes to composed herself and get over her defection. She was lucky to find this cave to hide just in case they start searching for her, she has prepared her gear and her weapons wisely. No longer was she wearing her Kitsune Temptress uniform since she killed her alter ego leaving the mask team, she was wearing something different. She wear her interrogation cloak along with a black vest, fish net elbow pads with black fingerless glove with black spandex shorts and black sandals. The final thing she put up was her purple Konoha headband around her forehead she hasn't wear it since she became a member of the interrogation division.
She tightened the headband making sure it was fitted well when she face Hidan and Kakuzu she will make sure they see that it will be a ninja from Konoha who will end their lives. Once she has make sure that everything was good to go she got up walking to the entrance of the cave, she left the dark hole on the wall staring at the mountain view filled with the night sky. She took a deep breath finally ready to head and search for her targets she walked a couple of steps before she stopped looking around. Her sky blue eyes glared sensing someone was near maybe the Akatsuki were heading her way, she heard footsteps not too far from her position.
She quickly reacted by throwing a couple of sembon needles" come on out!"
The stranger barely dodged the thin projectiles landing next to her" whoa easy Ino it's me!"
The Yamanaka's glare vanished once she took a long look at the person she almost turned into a needle doll she could never forget his face she smiled" Shikamaru!"
She hugged her former teammate when they were genins from team eight she has really missed me" it's great to see an old face again."
"You're making me sound old" the Nara sweat dropped he was wearing his ANBU uniform minus the mask.
She giggle" glad to see you again sorry for reacting the way I did."
"It's all right I shouldn't have tried sneaking up on you like that."
"Who sneaked up on who I was the one who almost turn you into a voodoo doll" she gave a smirk.
"You're acting troublesome as always…."
"I even missed when you say that, why are you here?"
"It's a long story I'm going to try it making it short."
She nodded her expression was serious remembering his mission with Asuma" how's Chouji?"
"He'll be fine he wasn't badly wounded but he will have to stay at the hospital for a few weeks until he fully recovers."
"That's good it feels good to hear some good news at least…."
"It's my turn to ask you why you're here?" replied the ANBU captain.
"I'm here on a mission…."
"To find and kill the Akatsuki members that killed Asuma sensei?"
She gasped" how do you know?"
"I have been following you for an hour I know about the mission the Raikage requested for Naruto."
The bleach blond stood quiet hearing the name of her former leader, someone very close to her heart" yes the mission is to protect the two tails jinchurikki from getting capture by Akatsuki, that's why we're searching for them before they get to the jinchurikki from Kumo."
"All right then why you're alone?"
"Kitsune…..I mean Naruto ordered me to scout this area and contact him as soon as I spot them" she lied sounding very convincing she didn't wanted him to know that she left the team.
"I see but I'm certain you won't contact him if you do find them" Shikamaru noticed something was off with the blond kunoichi.
"What are you talking about I am under his orders to scout this region?" she tremble trying to keep herself in check.
"You're blinking too much you're obviously lying, you can't fool me you're not here to scout you want to kill those Akatsuki."
"What….?" her eyes widened she never expected he would realize the truth.
"I know what you want Ino. You want revenge for Asuma sensei that's why you want to kill those two Akatsuki…."
The Yamanaka lowered her head there was no denying in it anymore she knew she couldn't keep lying to him" yes….you're right I want revenge I hate Akatsuki so much I want to kill those two, so don't try to stop me Shikamaru or you will regret it."
"Who said anything about stopping you?"
"What?" she was surprised by his sudden reply.
"I'm not going to stop you in fact I want to help you fulfill it, that's the reason I came here. I know how you feel I want revenge too."
She smiled" thank you I could really use any help you're willing to offer me."
"Have Naruto told you about the two Akatsuki members?"
"He did and I can't believe its true are they really immortal?"
The Nara nodded" they are take it from me, the guy that killed Asuma sensei stabbed himself endlessly and he didn't die but it was Asuma sensei the one getting hurt instead, the other one can die if all of his hearts are destroy so he's not completely immortal."
She nodded with a serious expression" any ideas how to kill him for good?"
"I don't have a clue if he's really immortal then there's nothing we can do."
"Wait Naruto told me that he needs to keep killing people to his god in order to keep his immortality active, so if he stops the killing then he will eventually die."
"And how do you expect to stop him from killing people, Ino I met the guy and he's a psychopath and he's so sadistic he will never stop killing people."
"Then I guess I will have to cut him to pieces until he's unable to move."
"I guess that's the only logical solution if that's what you have in mind I will help you, I have come up with a plan it might not be of much help but it will help you in a tight spot the rest will be up to you…."
She blinked" wait you're not coming with me to fight them?"
The ANBU captain sighed" I wish I could but I can't I know it's troublesome, I shouldn't even be here in the first place."
"You're on a mission?"
"Not quite but why would you be surprise that I can't go with you, you have Naruto and the rest of his team to help you?"
Ino lowered her head once again she tried so hard not to cry Shikamaru was able to tell quickly that something was really off and it finally add up why she was alone.
"What happened?"
"I…."
"Ino did something happened to Naruto, Sakura and Hinata?" he was now concerned for the safety of the trio.
"No it's nothing like that they are fine….sort off" she remembered their hurtful expressions when she left.
"What do you mean?"
"Shikamaru I quit the team I'm no longer a member of team Kitsune Flash."
"You what why would you quit?"
"A lot has happened before you came to me…."
"You wouldn't quit the team unless something bad happen, what is it?"
"I don't want to talk about it."
"I think I have a guess….did you snapped at them?"
"What?" her eyes widened in pure shock
"You were angry with them that you ended up hurting their feelings, you treat them coldly all because you let your hatred and your revenge get the better of you am I right?"
Tears were forming on her sky blue eyes" how….how did you know?"
"Because the same thing happened to me…."
"What….?"
"I was right there when Asuma sensei died Tsunade-sama sent my team as back up for Asuma sensei's team just in case I never realized how useless I was to him…."
"What do you mean what happened?"
"We were too late when I arrived I saw that Akatsuki stabbing himself and Asuma sensei getting hurt coughing up blood, we didn't arrived on time to stop him from making the final blow. He was too wounded that we didn't had time to bring him back to the village's hospital, I spent my final moments with him."
Ino let a couple of tears fall while the Nara shed his own tears too" I will never forget his final words to me, whenever I had some time off I would play shogi with him. He was really bad at the game I always beat him he was always very predictable, then he asked me an interesting question about the game."
"In the game of shogi you have to use your pieces to protect the king because if the king is taken down then the game ends. He asked me if I know who represents the king in our village."
"The Hokage?" she replied it was the obvious answer.
"That was my answer too but it turned out I was wrong" he dried his tears" before he died in his last words he told me the answer I never expected it was going to be such an easy answer…."
"What is it?"
He gave a smile" the next generation."
Ino gave a smile as tears were now falling" now that's what I call a true king."
The ANBU captain nodded" the next generation of our village they are the future of Konoha who will lead our village to a new era, I have vowed to protect the next generation for Asuma sensei's sake I will protect the king…."
"Good for you Shikamaru I know Asuma sensei will be proud of you."
"Well anyway going back to the troublesome part, like I told you I was just like you. I was so angry that I wanted revenge badly I asked Tsunade-sama dozens of times to give me a mission to hunt those Akatsuki but she refused to send my team, she told me I wasn't thinking like an ANBU captain and she was right. I was filled with so much hatred that snapped I lost control over my emotions I was no longer acting like a proper ANBU…."
The Yamanaka was shocked" you mean….?"
"Yeah I ended up snapping at my team the same way you snapped at Naruto's team. I snapped at Neji, Kakashi and Yugao I was cold to them, I disrespected all of them in ways that are unforgivable I'm ashamed to look at their faces again. Tusnade-sama decided to give me some time off to cool down and try to get over Asuma sensei's death like a mini vacation if you want to call it that, I'm not allow to leave the village or go on missions."
"I'm sorry" her eyes softened.
"It's all right…."
She was shocked" wait a minute then right now you…."
"You got it I shouldn't be here because I'm supposed to be at the village resting, I know it's troublesome."
"Shikamaru are you crazy?" she shouted at him" you ran away from the village and you're not supposed to leave if Tsunade-sama finds out you will be in a lot of trouble."
"I told you it's troublesome" he sweat dropped.
"Not troublesome stupid!" she gave him a comical expression.
"Too late I'm sure by now Neji must have told her already he did spotted me when I left the village though."
"What?" the Yamanaka gave another comical expression.
"Just cut it out I needed to see you to tell you about the plan and also…."
She saw him taking a couple of things from one of his pockets she blinked recognizing them it only brought more tears to her eyes. The first thing he took was a pack of cigarettes which it was Asuma's favorite brand, the second thing was his lighter and the third thing was his weapon the two hand blades.
"They're all Asuma sensei's…."
"They are mementos of him things to treasure and remember forever, I wanted to share them with you."
"Thanks of course I will treasure them I will never forget him" she sobbed looking at some of the Sarutobi's belongings.
"Here take one" he offered her a cigarette from the small box.
She smiled taking putting in it in her mouth" I remember this."
"It was when we first became team ten this was the first experience as a genin team, Asuma sensei made us smoke because as graduated ninjas we we're already seen as adults."
"Give me a light."
Shikamaru lighted her smoke and he did the same with his cigarette both inhaled the first smoke of course Ino ended up coughing a lot.
"Shit I forgot how awful this tastes I don't know how the heck could Asuma sensei smoke these?"
"You get use to it" the ANBU captain was smoking without a problem.
"Hey wait a minute you can smoke?"
"While I was on my little vacation I started smoking and I finally got used to them, I actually need to smoke because it helps me think faster."
'Looks like Asuma sensei has really rubbed on him' she smiled.
The Nara handed her the lighter" here keep it as way to have Asuma sensei close to you."
"Thanks I will take good care of it."
"And also take these" he handed her the two blades.
"Why are you giving me his weapon I don't know how to fight using these?"
"There's a first time for everything I'm sure you will eventually learn how to use them, you will need it when battling those Akatsuki."
"All right how about if you tell me your plan?"
"I won't…."
"What….what do you mean you won't?" she suddenly got upset.
"I won't tell you the plan if you're planning in fighting them alone."
She growled" I thought you wanted to help me fulfill my revenge!"
"I do but not like this, Ino you can't take on those two Akatsuki on your own the plan will not work."
"Just tell me and I will decide if it will work or not."
"It's not going to work period taking them on alone is suicide, the plan is accurate to work if it's executed with a full platoon and you don't have that look what they did to Asuma's team?"
"Well I can't okay I don't have a team I must do this on my own…."
"Then you will only die at their hands your efforts will be for nothing."
"You're the one who doesn't want to help me!" she glared at him.
"You can still do this if you do the right thing. And that's by finding Naruto and telling him the plan."
More tears have made their way to her eyes she shook her head remembering their sorrowful expressions" I….I can't, I can't go back to them not after everything I said to them they will surely hate I know."
"I won't hurt to try though…."
She sighed picking up the lighter and the two hand blades" I better get going I can't waste anymore time I can't let Naruto and the others find them before me."
"You're not going to ask Naruto for help?"
"No…."
He sighed" this is why I find women troublesome, wait Ino I will tell you the plan and I will also tell you the two Akatsuki current location."
She gasped hearing the last thing" you know where they are?"
The ANBU captain gave a nod" I have been tracking them since I came to lighting country they seem to be heading to Kumo."
"So they already made their move to go after the two tails then I must hurry, Shikamaru please tell me everything."
"All right…."
(Scene change time skip)
(Location: warehouse district abandoned town lighting country territory)
Hidan and Kakuzu have entered a large building that lead to a tunnel underground the two Akatsuki were still resuming their journey to capture the two tails. Hidan was in a bad mood because they haven't taken a rest and it was dark already he hated to travel when he was feeling sleepy, he wasn't a happy camper. He was feeling like killing his partner for making him travel all the way to Kumo without any sleep he didn't care about capturing a jinchurikki he was just needed to rest his eyes. The tunnel they took has leaded them into a sewer like passage it was definitely a sewer with the dirty water and the horrible stench. The Jashin worshiper had to covered his nose so he didn't ad to smell a thing from the stinky sewer this has given him another reason to hate his partner even more, he looked like has had about enough from the place.
"Why the hell are we in a fucking sewer?"
"Your brain must have been damaged a while back I believe I have already told you why we're here?"
"How the fuck should I know the last time we came to a stink hole like this one you were giving another dumb ass bounty to someone from the black market?"
Kakuzu sighed in annoyance" for the second time Hidan according to my map this is a secret passage through the sewer system that will lead us to Kumo. We will be able to infiltrate the village safely they will never know we're here."
He snorted" I still think this secret infiltration shit is fucking stupid."
"Be my guess if you want to take on Kumo's entire army, they will torture you forever since you can't die."
"Like hell they have a chance those shit heads are all future sacrifices for Jashin-sama."
'I would love to see you try it should be amusing' the missing nin from waterfall grinned.
"When the fuck are we getting there I'm tire?"
"Patience we should be there soon…."
"I'm not going to continue traveling anymore so fuck you I'm staying here, I haven't slept in hours."
"It's not like you're going to die from insomnia."
"Hahaha there you go again Kaku-bitch is trying to be a funny ass comedian tell me another one that doesn't suck!"
"Your god can kiss my ass" replied Kakuzu.
"What the hell how dare you insult Jashin-sama that's it you're dead, I'm sacrificing all of your hearts to Jashin-sama!"
"Go ahead and try I'll rip you to pieces before you even start to perform your little ritual."
Hidan charged at him swinging his scythe while Kakuzu blocked it punching him, he managed to counter it by punching him square in his face.
"Booya bitch that's for punching my nose this morning"
While they were fighting silent footsteps were closing on them, they weren't unnoticed as they were hitting the dirty sewer water which it was very audible.
Kakuzu's ears reacted stopping his fight with his partner" Hidan….?"
"Your wide open ass munch!"
He blocked the scythe giving him a piss off look" just shut up and listen!"
The Jashin worshiper stopped his attack noticing the silent footsteps" what's that?"
"Company….we're not alone."
"How the hell could it be you said that no one knows that we're heading to cloud?"
"I did but apparently whoever it is must not be aware that were here, at least not yet."
"It's getting closer" Hidan said.
"Looks like we might have the choice to fight…."
"That's great I'm feeling like sending another fucker to Jashin-sama."
The two Akatsuki members turned their heads ahead as the footsteps have gotten very close to them, just a few feet. They were able to see someone standing in front of them which turned out to be Ino the Yamanaka was glaring at the two with so much hatred her blood was really boiling she gave a new definition to the term if looks could kill. After so long she was finally going to fulfill her revenge she looked at them noticing their cloaks they were definitely members of the organization but she needed to make sure they were the ones, especially to a certain murderer.
"What do we have here?" asked Hidan with some amusement in his voice.
Kakuzu noticed her headband" you're from Konoha…."
Ino kept her cold murderous glare at the two" which one of you is Hidan?"
"That will be me" replied the Jashin worshiper with a grin.
She took Asuma's blades ready to fight everything she endured has been for this moment" I'm going to kill you!"
To be continued
There it is again folks evil cliffhanger jutsu I know you hate me but you love me too. But I really hate myself for not updating this story for almost two months ouch a lot of you have probably burn your eyelashes waiting for the next chapter, well your wait finally ends. This chapter is finally done and I must say I really outdone myself making Ino act so emo and angsty but it's all part of her character development within this arc, it's what I have in mind. Also I originally intended in giving Ino Asuma's weapon not that I don't have a problem with Shikamaru having them in canon but I wanted to try something new. I always wonder about Ino using them in battle I think it's a cool idea if you ask me, hopefully I will try to update this story again sooner than expected.
The manga is sure getting better with the start of the fourth ninja war that bastard Kabuto has brought back all of the characters and enemies from part 1. Makes me wonder if he brought back Jiraiya and even Minato and Kushina too I also wonder what will be Sasuke's reaction if he sees Itachi again. This arc is probably the last one of the series I feel like Kishimoto-san can wrap things up with this arc I don't know I hope I'm wrong. Please review and thanks once again for giving me the over one thousand review farewell until the next time.
Next chapter: Judgment for revenge part 2: A kunoichi's resolve
