Village Hidden in the Sound, Orochimaru's Chamber…

Orochimaru had heard Shun out concerning Neji, and it wasn't a bad idea. Certainly, it would make his fury over losing Sasuke Uchiha barrable. Getting the Byakugan, if he couldn't get the Sharingan in time, would be a good trade off.

The Byakugan was strong even if it didn't have the Jutsu copying skills of the Sharingan. The boy had even spoke openly and honestly about his disdain for the Leaf Village. His goal was something Orochimaru wouldn't mind granting either.

"What payment do you wish for bringing me such a prodigy?" Orochimaru asked.

Shun withdrew a vial and tossed it to Orochimaru. "I'm aware you have a Hozuki, so I want some of his DNA along with Kimmimaro's. In addition, I request that Neji be trained for five and half years before you take him over."

"That won't work. Lord Orochimaru…" Kabuto began.

Orochimaru held up a hand. "You will have Hozuki DNA for Neji Hyuga; however, I request a powerful vessel in return for holding off on consuming him. I will have to take a new vessel at around the halfway point."

"Done." Shun wove hand signs. "In three years, I'll provide you with a strong vessel."

"You can leave the boy here." Orochimaru stated. "Kabuto will deliver the Hozuki and Kaguya DNA to you."

Shun smiled. "I'll be waiting."

With that, Shun vanished.

"We must simply find out how he does that." Kabuto stated.

Orochimaru smiled under his bandages. "Oh yes, this one will make a fine vessel." He looked to Kabuto. "Help Neji Hyuga settle in."

"As you wish." Kabuto looked to Neji. "Come along now."

Daichi's Hospital Room

Daichi had been cleared to leave, so he walked out of his room. He didn't get far before his eyes saw what looked like a blur enter the room at the end of the hall.

"What's going on there?" Daichi thought as he moved down the hall.

In the Room

Tayuya was completely strapped to the bed, and this included her head making it impossible to look anywhere except up.

"It's not like I can blame these idiots for strapping me down. They most likely think I'm still working for that snake. He may have had me in his clutches for a while, but I know the truth. There's no way I'm ever going back to him." Tayuya thought.

She was snapped out of her thoughts as a figure in a black cloak appeared in her field of vision wearing a mask and a tanto strapped to their back. Tayuya knew that this person had to be a Leaf Village Anbu.

"I suppose I should have expected this." Tayuya sighed. "Just get it over with you creep."

The Anbu drew their tanto and held it above Tayuya. Before they could do anything, the door to the room was thrown open, and Daichi stepped in. He looked from the Anbu to Tayuya recognizing her from the mission.

Daichi drew a kunai. "Step away from the girl."

The Anbu spoke with a woman's voice and without any emotion. "You have no authority over me. I am simply eliminating a potential threat before it can harm the Leaf Village.

Daichi sighed. "You can't kill her because I've placed her under the Fusion Clan's protection for the time being. While that may not seem like much, I implore you to think about the clans who would rally against you should you act against me."

The woman put her tanto away. "I will take my leave."

She body flickered out of the room leaving Daichi with Tayuya. He grabbed a chair and sat beside her bedside. Tayuya was speechless. She'd never been saved by anyone. Her old 'teammates' would have sooner watched her die then do anything to help.

"Seems as though you were the Sound Shinobi we captured. Mind telling me how?" Daichi questioned.

"It was Rock Lee who brought me in." Tayuya responded. "It's what I was told and the logical conclusion since he was the only Shinobi around at the time I passed out."

"She seems to be cooperating." Daichi nodded. "Why are you answering me honestly? I would expect a ninja under Orochimaru to speak with lies if they were ever confronted by the enemy."

Tayuya sneered at Orochimaru's name. "The only reason I served that monster was because he repressed my memories. He had my father killed and burned down my home. He made me forget that I am an Uzumaki."

"Lee did tell me she used the Adamantine Sealing Chains which only Uzumaki can use." Daichi thought.

"I don't care if you believe me or not because it is the truth." Tayuya firmly stated.

"I believe everything you've said is the truth." Daichi stated. "You were a pawn of Orochimaru."

Now it was Tayuya's turn to be surprised. Before the memories of her father, there was no one who trusted that what she said was true. Trust and honesty weren't something associated with being a Sound Ninja. It felt good that someone else could trust in her.

"Just so I'm sure, you do not harbor any feelings of loyalty to Orochimaru?" Daichi asked.

Tayuya became angry again. "If that snake ever dies, I'd dance on his grave."

"You are an Uzumaki?" Daichi inquired.

Tayuya created a few yellow chain links that she immediately dispersed. "Does that answer your question?"

Daichi nodded. "Would you like to join the Leaf Village?"

Tayuya was shocked. "What did you say?"

"I asked if you would like to join the Leaf Village?" Daichi stated.

Tayuya closed her eyes. "Like I'd ever be accepted?"

"That word has different meanings. If you genuinely want to join, you'd be able to. Zabuza of the Mist joined and another Uzumaki from Kusa should join, officially, soon. Right now, you have a chance at a better life. All you must do is cooperate."

It didn't take long for Tayuya to decide. "I want to join the Leaf as a Shinobi. The Uzumaki always had close ties with the village, and I wish to honor those ties."

"It's going to take time to accomplish, but the village needs Shinobi. As you said, we have close ties with the Uzumaki." Daichi stood. "I'll inform Tsunade of what happened, and she'll likely send a personal Anbu of hers to guard you."

Daichi then walked out of the room.

Haruno Residence

Yumi Haruno removed her mask and head band slicing a line into both. "From this point forward, the Leaf is no longer my home."

Kai entered the room at that moment. "Yumi? I thought I heard you." He noticed the head band and mask. "What are you…"

Yumi took out a kunai and cut two big gashes into Kai's chest causing him to heavily bleed. Before he could scream out in pain, she knocked him unconscious and placed him in a closet before putting a chair up to it.

"I only need one of you to secure my place in a new village." Yumi opened the nearby window. "You'll either bleed out, or we'll be gone before you die."

Outside Tayuya's Room

Daichi had been leaning against the door when Tsunade approached. "Report."

Daichi nodded. "Yes, Lady Hokage."

The Fusion member told her about the Anbu and his discussion with Tayuya.

"A tanto and emotionless… It has to be the work of Danzo." Tsunade thought as she recognized the two key features Root agents were known to have. "The only question is, why did he want a captive Sound Shinobi killed? Is it because he views her as a threat or is there another reason?"

"I'll get an Anbu member I trust down here to take her in for interrogation. Until she can defend herself, I'll ensure she's guarded her for the time being." Tsunade nodded. "In the meantime, do you back her for becoming a Shinobi of the Leaf?"

"Everything she's told me is the truth." Daichi confirmed. "Let's not forget the ties between the Leaf and Uzumaki Clan. We really do owe it to the Uzumaki to help those that remain."

"You're right on all accounts, but this matter must be brought to the council as it was with Zabuza Momochi and Karin Uzumaki. They've gotten word on her, and the meeting is set for next week where a multitude of topic will be discussed."

"It Fortunate that I'm a Chunin." Daichi smiled. "It means I can attend as a Clan Head. I can only assume that part of the meeting will be dedicated towards me all things considered."

"You and Sasuke will be one of the topics of discussion." Tsunade sighed. "The council enjoys playing Shinobi match maker. Considering how valuable the Sharingan is and your Clan's history…"

Daichi crossed his arms. "I get it."

While this upcoming meeting would be his first, Hiashi had spoken about what he could expect concerning the council. The Shinobi side was okay… save a few bad eggs, but the Civilian side was corrupt and power hungry.

There were measures in place to ensure they kept the power they currently had and Danzo Shimura was said to be the one they agreed with the most. The Civilian side also hated Naruto while, according to Hiashi, Danzo wanted to make Naruto into a weapon.

"I think it might be time to fix Konoha. After all, Neji Hyuga may have had a stick shoved up his butt, but he wasn't wrong. Konoha has been slowly rotting." Daichi smiled. "This meeting could be a good opportunity to exercise some rights bestowed on to me."

"I'm glad you will be making use of your Clan's unique opportunity. We'll talk later and put a proper duel together." Tsunade smiled. "For now, there's a festival happening at the end of the week." She walked away. "You should go and have some fun."

Hallway

Daichi was making his way out of the hospital when he saw Kazamae leaning against a wall. "Sensei, your back!"

"It's good to see you Daichi." Kazamae nodded. "I'd enjoy catching up as much as you, but there's a reason I'm here, and it's not for a friendly chat. From what I understand, you ran into some Akatsuki on the mission to find Tsunade."

"I did Sensei." Daichi stated.

"Then, you know what they're after?" Kazamae asked.

Daichi replied, "They want me dead and to capture Naruto."

"Exactly, which is why I will return in 6 months to focus on your training." Kazamae stated.

Daichi nodded as he thought about his past opponents. "I definitely need to become stronger."

Kazamae nodded. "Best Jiraiya and I can figure, there are 5 and a half years until the Akatsuki makes its move. I plan for your training to finish in 3 leaving the remaining 2 for field experience."

"I understand Sensei." Daichi smiled. "While you're gone, I won't stop training myself. I'll also gain more mission experience as well."

Kazamae smiled as he placed his hand on Daichi's shoulder. "Keep that mentality because the training I'll offer will make that month with Zabuza and I seem like a walk in the park."

Kazamae patted Daichi's shoulder before walking the other way.

Daichi smiled and began making his way out when he noticed another blur enter a room. "Okay, what is up with everyone having agendas with people in the hospital?"

He ran to the door.

Naruto's Apartment, Same Time…

Naruto opened his window to let some air in, and not a moment later, Jiraiya jumped inside. "Pervy Sage!"

"Hey there kid." Jiraiya leaned against the wall. "I came to speak with you about something important. A warning that in six months, I'm taking you out of the village for 5 years to train."

"Out of the village?" Naruto questioned. "Why can't we train here in Konoha?"

"It's to keep you mobile." Jiraiya stated. "You're a more important target to the Akatsuki then Daichi is. They just want him dead for fear he might get in their way. You are someone they want to capture. Keeping the two of you here will only invite trouble."

Naruto nodded. "I understand, but why don't we leave sooner?"

"I have some preparations to take care of." Jiraiya walked to the window. "I'll be back."

Jiraiya left.

Sakura's Hospital Room, Some Time Later…

Sakura had heard her door open and turned her head only for a dart to hit her neck. Almost immediately, she was completely paralyzed while still conscious. Yumi walked up to her daughter, picked her up, and slung her over the shoulder before moving towards the window.

"What did she put in me? I can't even move a toe, finger, or my mouth." Sakura thought.

No matter how hard Sakura tried, she just couldn't move. This left her with only one option. Scream with her mouth closed as loud as possible in hopes of attracting someone's attention.

"Stop screaming Sakura." Yumi ordered as she opened the window. "I'm taking you to a new life. Konoha doesn't deserve the Wood Style when other villages would treat you so much better."

"Mother's gone full blown crazy!" Sakura thought.

At that moment, the door was thrown open as Daichi ran in and saw what was going down. "Hey, you can't take her!"

"Damn, the false Clan Head!" Yumi thought.

"Daichi?" Sasuke couldn't move to see him, so she was unsure.

Yumi jumped out the windows into the trees nearby.

"Hey!" Daichi jumped out the window and chased after Yumi. "Sakura Haruno is being kidnapped!" He ran to the window. "Call in someone!"

He jumped out the window to give chase.

Konoha

Yumi had made it to the roofs and was running away from the gates towards the forest.

Daichi was right behind her. "She's heading towards the forested area where Mizuki meant to meet Naruto. Does that mean there was a secret passage out there? I don't think he'd have gone through the front gate unless he sealed the scroll. Either way, I need to stop her."

"Damn it." Sakura thought as she could only see roof. "I can't move."

Daichi wove the hand signs. "Lion's Will: 25%."

The orange Chakra appeared around Daichi and he blasted forward slamming into Yumi's back.

Yumi was utterly shocked. "The Lion Sage's Jutsu… Another Shinobi who should learned his place."

She was forced to let go of Sakura and Daichi caught her bridle style. Yumi took out a kunai with some ninja wire on it and threw it into the wood of the building. It stuck, and she wrapped the wire up until it caught. At that point she swung back up.

"It was Daichi." Sakura was staring up at The Fusion Clan member. "He saved me."

Daichi looked down at Sakura. "She's limp, yet alive. Must be a paralyzing toxin."

Yumi landed on the roof and charged at Daichi. He jumped back as she went for a kick to his face but threatened to fall. He moved his legs in a way that sent him skidding to the edge of the roof. By this point, civilians were taking note of the conflict.

Daichi jumped back to the next roof and looked around. "Are there any Shinobi among the crowd? If there are, they may be confused due to Yumi's Anbu attire."

Yumi jumped to the same roof forcing Daichi to jump to another roof since he didn't feel comfortable being anywhere on the same roof as her.

"People of the leave Village!" Daichi shouted. "This woman has used a toxin on her own daughter and is attempting to do something with her! I don't know what, but a mother wouldn't do this to their daughter if it were anything good!"

Yumi got an idea as she yelled, "Do not listen to him!" She looked at the gathered citizens. "I was ordered to watch over my daughter by the Hokage and observed Daichi Ryu absconding with her."

The people began whispering amongst themselves, and it wasn't in Daichi's favor. No one who really knew him was in the crowd, and people were more inclined to believe Anbu over a Chunin who's only made a name among his peers.

By this point, Sakura was trying hard to speak, but her mouth was refusing to move. "Come on, yell something. Anything to help him."

"Okay, that backfired. I can either try to explain myself or find someone who won't turn on me. I better make that fast because I'm starting to see Shinobi." Daichi thought. "It's not like I can attack them as this does look bad out of context."

A few Shinobi in flak jackets began to jump onto the roof.

"I could surrender now, but there's a chance they give Sakura to Yumi. She might even injury or kill a few Shinobi. In the panic, she'd run. Likely, she'd wait until I'm pinned." Daichi backed up to the edge of the current roof as the Shinobi approached.

"Hokage it is, but she's a good distance away. Plenty of time for faster Shinobi than myself to catch me. That would also leave Sakura in harm's way which I won't allow. Damn it, I'm not letting them have her. If that means I come close to death, so be it."

Yumi smirked as she came to stand across from Daichi. "It was a nice try, but whatever plans you have end here."

"I think not Yumi Haruno. You have them fooled because they only know of me; however, I'm not without allies." He looked around as the Shinobi as they began to move into place. "I protect my comrades even if I must risk my life."

"Daichi…" Sakura thought worriedly. "I need to move!"

The shinobi charged at Daichi as he braced himself. "Lion's Will: 100%."

Chakra exploded around the Fusion member in a spectacular display as he launched himself back off the roof jumping clear over several roofs. His face contorted into agenizing pain as he landed, but he wasn't about to give in. The Shinobi, despite being shocked, gave chase.

Daichi turned in the direction of the tower and started sprinting at an amazing speed. He felt as though his body was being crushed by two rocks and rapidly sliced up by a blade. It even brought tears to his eyes as he ran and dodged projectiles.

Hokage Tower

Daichi had jumped from a roof, turned so his back would hit the glass, and smashed through the window. He went right over Tsunade and smashed into the wall across from her before managing to land on his feet. Sakura was still in his arms.

Tsunade jumped to her feet. "Daichi what is the meaning of this!?"

Before he could answer, Yumi jumped into the office followed by Anbu. "First you kidnap my daughter and now you attempt to kill the Hokage. Are you determined to bring Konoha to its knees?"

Daichi ignored her and gently placed Sakura against the wall away from the glass on the floor. He was then surrounded by Anbu who held blades at various points where they could easily kill him. He slowly turned around as the Lion's Will dispersed.

Blood ran down the sides of his mouth, he was sweating profusely, and his body felt like it was being crushed. He just wanted to drop unconscious; however, he couldn't. Not yet. He coughed up blood and started panting.

Just as he was about to speak, Sakura was finally able to speak herself. "My… mother… drugged… me."

Daichi smiled as he fell onto his back unconscious.

Tsunade glared at Yumi. "What was that your daughter just said?"

Yumi maintained her composure. "It must be the toxin Daichi Ryu used ma'am. Her words aren't…"

Sakura struggled to her knees, fell to her hands, and crawled to Daichi's body. "Please… Help… Him…" She struggled to lift her arms placing them on his chest. "He's… in… pain."

Tsunade looked at the gathered Anbu. "Arrest Yumi Haruno. Inochi will get to the bottom of this."

Yumi grit her teeth realizing that every card had been played. Her tattoos began to glow until Tsunade punched her in the gut sending her out the hole.

"Now, arrest Yumi Haruno and get Inochi immediately." Tsunade ordered. "I also want Daichi Ryu and Sakura Haruno brought to the hospital because I'm giving them personal care."

That got the Anbu moving as some went to collect the now injured, former Anbu while others collected Daichi and Sakura running them back to the hospital.

Streets of Konoha

Kakashi was walking by the Haruno household with his book out when Kai, looking pale from loss of blood, came stumbling out. He fell to the ground.

Kakashi ran to him and flipped the guy over. "Hey are you okay? What happened?"

"My wife is abandoning the Leaf Village." Kai was panting. "I think she may be going after Sakura. Please, make sure my daughter is alright."

He passed out.

Kakashi picked him up. "I will once you get medical attention."

The Jonin put the man on his shoulder and ran to the hospital.

Kai's Hospital Room, A Day Later…

Sakura entered the hospital room to find that her father. "Dad, your awake!"

He looked at Sakura in shock before looking at the bed sadly. "I'm so sorry sweetie… for everything. I genuinely loved your mother, but she proved time and time again that she never loved me or you. For years, I made you suffer because I couldn't get rid of her."

Sakura walked up to her bed. "Dad, I'm just glad you're okay, and it hasn't been all bad. Who knows where I'd have been if my life hadn't worked out like this?" She hugged him. "I still have you. You've taken care of me, and I still love you."

Kai was surprised by his daughter's words. "I thought you'd be angry with me. I mean the things I let your mother get away with when it came to you."

"I could never be angry with you dad." Sakura reassured warmly.

"Thank you, sweetie. I promise, I won't fall prey to your mother anymore." Kai smiled. "From this moment onward, you're the only important lady in my life." He looked at the bedding. "I'm just glad that Ryu boy was there to save you."

"Me to." Sakura nodded. "I'll need to find a way to thank him once he's recovered."

All she could do, before they crashed into the Hokage's tower, was see. She saw his pain. She saw the blood. He'd pushed himself to get her to safety, and she truly was thankful for what he did.

Daichi Hospital Room

Daichi sat up and looked around spotting his teammates and Sensei.

"He's awake!" Naruto and Hinata shouted.

They hugged him while Sasuke and Kakashi stood back relieved. Daichi screamed in pain.

Sasuke sighed, "You two knew full well he's not healed yet."

They backed off sheepishly and Daichi fell onto his back. "Kakashi Sensei is Sakura okay? What happened after I passed out."

"She's fine Daichi." Kakashi informed. "The toxin was worked through her system, Yumi Haruno was quickly sentenced for her crimes, and you're expected to make a full recovery."

"I just hope Lady Tsunade isn't mad." Daichi sighed. "Given circumstances, crashing through her window was all I could think of." He winced. "Come to think of it, the Third's retired, so he'd have been at the Sarutobi Compound."

"Actually, he was at the academy as a special guest at the time. As for the window, Lady Hokage blames Yumi." Kakashi replied. "Our Lady Hokage is also ordering you to attend the festival to unwind. Fortunately, you should be discharged the evening before.

"That's good." Daichi sighed relieved. "I think I'm just going to get some rest now guys."

Kakashi nodded. "Right, come along everyone."

"Once you're out, we'll go for ramen." Naruto smiled. "Sasuke's treat."

"You wish Dobe." Sasuke smirked. "I'm buying everyone but you ramen."

"That's not fair Teme!" Naruto complained.

Hinata giggled at the rivals as Kakashi led them out of the room.