Note: I do not own Naruto

"They noticed us," Sasori mentioned.

"Hah, can't believe they took the bait!" Hidan said from his seat, watching his screen as the smaller aircrafts were miles away from them.

Juzo pressed several buttons, "Loading the guns! Whenever you're ready, Obito,"

Obito grabbed the thrust lever and pulled it back, slowing down the aircraft. As expected, the smaller spaceships surrounded them. Their weapons were drawn, and a loud voice was heard.

"Surrender now! We have you surrounded and there's nowhere for you to go! Your ship cannot outfly ours!"

"S-Sir…" a young officer, who flew one of the smaller ships, called his superior, "I-I don't think they're going to surrender…"

The older man looked at him with a raised eyebrow, "And why is that?"

"...Because our system is picking up a large amount of energy from their ship!"

"What-"

But the man's words were cut off as a large glowing white light appeared, blinding them all. They all covered their eyes, and soon explosions were heard.

"They're attacking us!" yelled the man, watching on his screen as half his army had already been decimated.

"Hahaha!" Deidara laughed from within the large ship, "Those fools always fall for that!"

He continued to aim and shoot at the smaller ships as Obito flew the aircraft through the debri and smoke.

"We only got one left!" Kisame said shortly before Obito pulled the trigger and shot the last remaining enemy ship.

Rin loved children. She enjoyed hearing their crazy ideas and laughing at their odd jokes. She was also a strong believer of always protecting them, as they are the future leaders of the world. They would be the ones ensuring that peace would continue amongst all worlds, even the ones that were lightyears away. Therefore, it was important to teach them not just math and physics; but wisdom and courage. It was important to teach them about teamwork and exploration, especially as their world's space program continued to expand into new territories.

...But Rin was tired of being the teacher. There were times, as the children did their work, that she would look up at the sky and imagine herself exploring the galaxy. She would be part of a strong and intelligent team, and they would explore the endless skies. She would learn more about the evolution of humans, and share that knowledge with everybody.

"Oh look, a ship's landing!"

"And it's an Uchiha ship!"

The students ran towards the window and wowed as the large aircraft flew over the school and continued its way towards the military base.

"I wish to be a pilot like that one day!" one kid said enthusiastically.

As the kids continued talking about their dreams and ambitions, Rin thought about hers. She imagined a life where she would be up there as well. Not a pilot, but someone important. Or at least take the opportunity to learn more and figure out what to do with her life.

"Looks like the kids noticed the aircraft that just entered our planet," said Tsunade, and Rin turned around to her director.

"Yeah, it's an amazing sight...but it flew pretty close don't you think?"

The blonde woman nodded, "There's only one man with those flying skills,"

"Who?" Rin asked curiously. She only knew of some pilots, such as Kakashi Hatake and Yamato.

"Obito Uchiha, grandson of the great Madara Uchiha. He's become an interesting character ever since his accident a few years ago,"

Rin was very aware of who Madara was. Space exploration was never guaranteed in being violent-free. It wasn't long ago that a space battle had ensued amongst three different ships, each from different worlds. And it was thanks to Madara's military expertise that all crafted spaceships were equipped with strong weapons and pilots were trained for any situation. But Madara, now a retired pilot who served as head of the space program, was a dangerous pilot. In battle, he pushed his spaceship and men to the limit.

But aside from knowing who Madara was, she also knew who Obito was. They had gone to the same high school as teenagers, and even crossed paths a couple of times afterwards when taking a few courses at college. Out of the blue, he had given her a flower and asked her to be his girlfriend. And as much as she wanted to say yes (she couldn't help but adore his smile and kindness), she had been in a tough spot with her family. And with a sad smile, she kindly rejected him. From that moment, their interactions became less and she sometimes mentally cursed herself for her decision. After some time, she had stopped seeing him around. It was through a mutual friend, Kakashi, that she one day had learned about Obito becoming a captain and taking on risky missions. That had been two years ago, and while looking at the sky she would wonder if he was OK and if he still felt the same about her.

'He probably moved on from me…' Rin would sometimes wonder whenever she thought about the Uchiha.

"You know...they're looking for someone with some nursing skills to join the program," Tsunade mentioned, and Rin turned her focus to her.

"Really?"

"Yes. I found out this morning. Unfortunately, sign-ups finish at midnight tonight,"

"I see. And why do they want someone with medical knowledge onboard?"

"Some of the missions have started becoming dangerous, and the majority of the crew don't have much medical experience. When I found out, I immediately thought about you. I remember the day I interviewed you. You had expressed your desire for space exploration. And if I remember correctly, you worked as a nurse for some time?"

"Yeah… but I'm not sure I would be accepted,"

"Don't sell yourself short," Tsunade said, turning around, "You're still young. Don't make the same mistake I made twenty-years ago. Be quick about it, because time's ticking,"

Right after school, Rin grabbed a digital copy of the space program's expansion and rushed home.

Hours later…

"You know dad won't agree to this," Shizune said.

"I know...but I'm older now! I'm no longer a kid, and neither are you!"

"Rin, you know he wants us to have a normal life. If you do this, you'll waste months or years of your life just being in space! What's up there anyway besides planets and stars?"

"That's what I want to explore!" Rin said excitedly to her half-sister. "I know it sounds like I'll be wasting my time, but what is there to do here?"

"You can return to the medical field! You were so good!"

"I know, but I got bored. It became repetitive. But with this program, I can resume my medical practice and explore!"

Shizune sighed. She knew there was not much she could do to persuade Rin and think otherwise. Out of the two, Rin always dreamed big. As a kid, she would use the house as a fort and run around pretending to protect it from invading aliens. She was also never afraid of getting her hands dirty, something that troubled their mother greatly.

But she was right. They were no longer children, and life on Earth could get repetitive and boring. So she knew where her sister was coming from. She only wished their father would understand and agree without causing an issue out of it.

XxXxx

"Absolutely not!" Homura Mitokado said loudly, and Rin furrowed her eyebrows.

"Why not?"

"You just turned twenty-three, and already want to throw your life away by flying around? You have no business being up there! Your duty belongs here, with your family. You are of marriage age. You should be focused on settling down instead of getting yourself killed. Not many people return in one piece from space exploration! And the whole thing is a hoax! They should leave those skies alone before someone one day tries to attack us and we have no way of defending ourselves!"

"But what is there to do here? I already went to school, got a job as a nurse and then teacher! But I want more from my life-"

"Then accept Kabuto's hand in marriage! He is a great gentleman who has shown interest in you,"

Rin's stomach turned sour at the mention of Kabuto. She disliked the man. She had known him since they were kids, and always avoided him. The creepy looks he would give her and Shizune were enough reasons to keep distance from him. Things became weirder as they became young adults and he would flirt with both sisters. From the beginning, Rin had been honest with her father about Kabuto; but in the older man's eyes, Kabuto was destined to marry one of his daughters.

"You know I don't like that man…"

"It doesn't matter what you like!" Homura yelled at her.

Koharu and Shizune flinched, but Rin didn't move. She thought about the sky again, being up there and traveling through the stars. Visiting different planets, something most people around her age were doing.

Making up her mind, she stood from the dining table and left.

Homura stood from the table, but Koharu grabbed his arm and shook her head. "Let her be, please. She'll realize her mistake soon. She's your daughter, don't forget that,"

The rest of the evening went quietly, Homaru and Koharu talking about the girl's futures. And while they spoke about ways to keep their daughters safe, desires and dreams were starting to set in motion by one of them….

"Rin, a-are you sure?"

The short-haired woman barely nodded as she finished packing her duffel bag. Shizune sighed and grabbed her sister's wrist.

"Rin, just think about this please," she pleaded, "It's dangerous up there… How will you be able to protect yourself? These space missions aren't easy…"

"I know, but I can't stand being here and wasting my life away. I've always wanted to be up there, you know? And I think it's time I do it. I don't know if this opportunity will come again,"

Shizune scratched the back of her head, "Dad's going to be mad…"

"He'll get over it," Rin replied as she finished packing.

Finally admitting defeat, Shizune held her sister's hand. "Can you at least promise you'll keep in touch?"

Rin pulled out a small device and gave it to her, "I bought two of these before coming home… It's a high-frequency radio. I configured it so it already has my number. So regardless of where I am in space, you can call me or I can call you. And you see this button right here? When you press on it, a screen pops up so we can do video!"

"These are expensive! How were you able to buy two of them?"

"...I had to dig into my savings," Rin admitted, "But, at least we'll be able to keep in touch?"

"Yeah," Shizune nodded slowly, "Are you going to leave now?"

"Yes, I have to. Sign ups end in two hours, and the place is just over an hour away,"

"Then in that case, let me drive you,"

"...Really? Shizune, you don't have to. Besides, I don't want to drag you into this,"

"You won't be. I'll be dragging myself,"

Rin smiled at her sister before nodding and opening the door. Swiftly, the girls left the home and ran towards their father's vehicle. They wasted no time and drove quickly into the night.

Next day…

He had woken up late, his brain replaying random images again. He blamed the billions of bionic cells that made up his entire left arm. Despite having the arm for over a year, he wasn't sure when he would get used to it. Dr. Chiyo had done a great job at ensuring that the color of his bionic arm matched the rest of his body.

After grabbing a rather heavy breakfast with some coffee, Obito left his room and walked throughout the large fort.

There were several announcements made, large television screens showing which space crafts had departed and which were ready to depart.

His team would depart within the next hour.

Minato had left him a message on his device, something about a new team member. Someone with medical skills to join them temporarily.

...Someone who he already knows apparently.

Obito knocked, opening the door upon hearing Minato's voice telling him to come in. As soon as he entered and saw the young woman sitting across from his director, he paused.

Despite not seeing her for two years, his mind would sometimes show him images of her face. He would try to move on, but it was as if the universe wanted him to continue desiring her.

And as much as he tried, Obito knew that erasing Rin Nohara from his mind was near-impossible.

And here she was, smiling at him with those large brown sparkling eyes of hers. Her hair was still the same length, cascading near her shoulders. Her body looked the same as well, and he tried his best not to be too obvious about the way he was looking at her.

But damn those old feelings for coming back up by just the sight of her.

"Obito, thanks for coming! You remember Rin, correct?"

Of course he did.

"I do," he said with a neutral tone.

"Great! Well, as you're aware each team will have a medic on board throughout the entirety of the mission. I couldn't find anyone to put on your team, but luckily Rin showed up last night and applied. And since you two already know each other, I think this will be a great opportunity for both of you to catch up,"

Obito wasn't sure if he should hug or strangle Minato.

"It's great to see you again, Obito," Rin said, her voice soft and beautiful as always.

"Likewise," he replied, even though deep inside he was both nervous and happy.

Minato clapped excitedly, "Well, I won't waste any more of your time. Obito, I have loaded the missions onto your flight plan,"

"Thanks. I'll start prepping the team for takeoff,"

Minato nodded, "Good luck to all of you. And Rin, I know this will be your first time in space. Things can get dangerous but don't worry, I know Obito will keep you safe,"

XxxxX

There was something different about him. She felt it the moment he walked in the room. For once, his smile (or lack of). Not once did Obito smile or at least seem happy to see her, which was quite opposite from the man she remembered years ago. It was his smile, after all, that allowed her to notice him as more than just a friend. Next was his body. Obito was more muscular, and his facial features seemed a bit rougher. Maybe it was due to the stress of flying throughout the galaxy frequently? She wondered if all space captains went through that. Lastly, his demeanor.

As they walked side by side throughout the large hallway, he remained silent with his head facing forward. It made the energy around them awkward, which was something she despised. So clearing her throat, Rin decided to be the first one to break the ice.

"So….How have you been doing? I haven't seen you in...two years?"

"I've been doing OK," was his short reply, but Rin didn't let it bother her.

"Anything interesting while flying through space? You know, this will be my very first time even getting on a ship,"

"Aside from killing our enemies in space, not really,"

Rin didn't respond to that as she held onto her duffel bag. She wasn't sure if he was serious or just pulling her leg…

They entered a large area, and right away heard loud conversations coming from one particular table. Her eyes stayed on that table as she followed Obito towards it.

One of them, a muscular one with grey slick hair, turned to them and smirked as he made eye contact with her.

"Oi oi oi! Who's the pretty lady following you, Obito?"

"Her name is Rin. She will be joining us as a medical officer,"

Hidan raised his eyebrows at her while eyeing her up and down with a curious smile, "Well then, nice to meet ya', Rin. The name's Hidan,"

"Nice to meet you," she said, looking away from him as his hungry stare reminded her of Kabuto.

"Ah, so this is Rin-" Deidara closed his mouth quickly as Obito narrowed his eyes at him, and the blonde man cleared his throat, "...Rin… who I never heard of before, of course! Nice to meet you. I'm Deidara,"

"Nice to meet you, Deidara,"

She turned her head to the other males, who were also giving her curious and intriguing looks. Was something on her face?

"I'm Kisame," the next male said, and the rest of the team introduced themselves.

There was Sasori, who she heard of so much. Juzo, who was just as polite as Kisame. Then there was Kakuzu, who asked her if she was good with counting money. And when she replied with a nod, he said 'good' before talking to Obito about something else.

And lastly, Zetsu. A robot originally designed by Dr. Chiyo and Madara Uchiha. Throughout the decades, the Zetsus had been enhanced greatly. In today's world, they looked almost human except for the fact that they were pale white, had yellow eyes, and green hair.

"It's finally good to have a female on board!" Zetsu said, and Rin giggled nervously at that. She had hoped there would have been at least one more female in the crew. "You're going to have so much with us!"

"Oh, I'm sure she will," Hidan said with a perverse tone, and Rin frowned. She was not going to let this man's taunts get to her.

"It's time to leave. Let's go," Obito ordered, and they all followed him outside.

Rin felt butterflies in her stomach as they walked to the tarmac where several large air crafts were parked. She knew that these spaceships were large. But as she walked closer and closer to one, she realized that they were enormous.

The large rectangular door was opened, forming a ramp to the inside of the ship. She followed the men inside the spacecraft, wowing at its interior. The ship had to be at least three-stories tall.

"The second floor is where our rooms are," Zetsu told her, and Rin was glad for the robot's help, "We'll go there first to settle down and then go to the third floor to strap in,"

"Okay," Rin said.

There were two elevators that took them to the different floors within the ship, and Rin followed Zetsu in one of them as Obito took the next elevator. She couldn't help but frown at his aloofness towards her. This was definitely not the Obito she remembered and liked.

Upon reaching the second floor, she stood back as all of the crew members opened the door to their private quarters.

"The last room on the left is empty. You can take that one," Sasori casually pointed, and Rin thanked him.

The room wasn't large, but had everything she needed. It had a bed, a small closet with a dresser inside, and a table. She laid her duffel bag on the floor just as Zetsu stopped by.

"Come on, launch time!"

She turned around and followed the robot to the third floor. Half of that floor consisted of a large room with a thick glass ceiling and windows. There were several chairs around, each surrounded by smaller monitors and buttons. Obito, Kisame, and Kakuzu sat in the front while everyone else sat by the side.

"Engine start," Kakuzu said, and Rin gasped as she felt a large vibration underneath.

"System check is one-hundred percent!" Hidan called out.

The monitors on top began to display different visuals. One of them showed a layout of the galaxy, several planets marked.

"Engine level is seventy-percent," Sasori stated, "We should be good to take off in sixty-seconds,"

The intensity of the vibration increased, and Rin sat on an empty chair. The ship made unfamiliar mechanical noises, and the engines underneath roared.

"Ninety-percent,"

Obito pushed the thrust lever and suddenly the entire platform began to rise. Rin kept her eyes on the sky as the ship lifted off at a forty-five degree angle.

"Engines are one-hundred percent," Sasori said, and suddenly Rin felt her heart drop as the ship took quite a speed.

She held onto the chair in order to avoid being thrown to the floor. Everything was very loud and vibrating fast, and she closed her eyes and prayed that the ship wouldn't come apart. She trusted the Air Space program whole-heartedly. She also trusted Obito and his crew to ensure that the ship was in good condition to fly.

But as the ship flew at rapid speed through the clouds, causing her to feel as if heart was going left and right over and over, she took deep breaths and opened her eyes.

Obito took the ship right through the clouds and onto the mesosphere layer of the planet. He breezed through that layer and onto the thermosphere, and Rin was amazed at how all of the sudden their surroundings were dark. The only light she could see were those from other ships passing by and neighboring stars. She only wished that Shizune was here to see this as well.

She thought about giving her a quick call, and it was only when she tried to grab the radio device that Rin realized that her world was spinning. A sense of disorientation hit her and soon, before she could even comprehend what was going on, her vision darkened and she passed out on the floor of the ship.

"Oh shit, looks like the medic's out!" Deidara said before turning to Obito, "Your flying skills probably did that,"

"Here, take control," Obito told Kisame while getting up from his chair and rushing to the back where the fainted Rin was lying.

Zetsu was on the floor kneeling next to her, a finger by her neck. "She's breathing. I believe she may have suffered from vertigo,"

"Doesn't surprise me. She's never even been on a ship before,"

"Want me to run some more tests? Seek medical help from other air crafts?"

"No, I think she'll be fine. I'll take her downstairs," Obito replied, picking her up bridal style and leaving the ship's command area.

Author's Note: Here's the new ObiRin fic that I've had in mind for MONTHS! Please let me know your feedback and thoughts so far! Reviews inspire me to continue!