Chapter 30 First Blood

As always I don't own Naruto or any canon stuff. Now with that out of the way let's get on with the show! Sorry about the delay I recently got a new job and let's just say 12hr days don't leave much time to write.

-Suna-

Within the village the center of it's Puppetry Corps was it's research and development unit. Primarily made up of older members who had retired from active service and a equal number of younger apprentices. Built atop the place the village's unique skill was first formed the structure housed some of the village's greatest inventions. Puppets of all shapes and sizes littered it's walls and workshops as each master puppeteer sought to further improve upon their art.

Opening a long locked door Chiyo smiled sadly at the memories it housed before walking slowly towards a box only she could open. Using both a key and her chakra the legendary kunoichi opened an elaborate box revealing two white scrolls with elaborate seals upon them. "Neechan…Are you taking That with you?" Nodding Chiyo attaches the scrolls to hidden holders within her loose robes. "This must be fate."

Closing the box she Chiyo reminisces about her past deeds both good and bad before she responds. "After fighting him there's nothing left for me.." Despite knowing what she will likely say next Ebizo for once hopes he is wrong before she answers. "I've lived too long.." Surprised at Chiyo's words Ebizo is still for a moment before he follows her out of the building. As they head towards the Hospital they see a cloud of dust from Kakashi's summon Pakkun as he once more takes off.

-Kazekage Tower-

Sitting within their room Teams 7 and 8 quickly go over their plan while Temari assembles a squad of Suna nin to join them. As Kakashi goes over the final basic parts of the plan he doesn't notice a golden hawk fly into the village's aviary. Leaving the building the two teams quickly meet up with Temari's ad-hoc team near the village edge. Just before they can leave though Baki jumps down between them and Temari's team. "Temari, I'm sorry to say this but you and your team have been ordered to stay in the village..They fear other nations attacking if word of the Kazekage's kidnapping spreads outside the land."

Stunned at the elder's orders Temari's fists tighten in anger. "But why!? If we go out and quickly rescue him that would solve that problem instantly.." Before Temari can say more she notices Baki is angered by the orders as well. "Dammit..These Konoha nin came all this way to help..We HAVE to send someone to help." Suddenly the group hears a familiar laugh from above and looks up to see Chiyo. "I'll go then. I'm the only Suna nin who needs to go. And since I'm retired those old geezers can't order me around."

"Chiyo-baasama…You can't.." Cackling once more Chiyo jumps down shocking Naruto and the others as she lands before them. "Are you craz.." Before Naruto can say more Anko shakes her head and looks to Kakashi who nods to the retired kunoichi. "Alright then we leave immediately. Sasuke do you think you can summon one of your hawks again?" Nodding Sasuke pulls his sleeve up before biting his thumb and effortlessly going through the signs. "Summoning Jutsu!"

Once more a large burst of smoke appears before it's batted away by a pair of massive black and gold wings. As the hawk becomes visible it bows slightly to Sasuke before seeming to smile as the young Uchiha runs his fingers through it's feathers. "Sasuke it has been too long. What can I can for you?" Smiling Sasuke motions to his team behind him. "We are on a mission to rescue the Kazekage. Do you think you can help us get there quickly? Time is short Kojo-san."

Looking over the eleven shinobi present the hawk nods before lowering it's body slightly. "I've long been friends with Suna's Weasel Clan. I'm sure they'd appreciate the help." As Naruto jumps on with the others he's surprised to see metal talons covering the hawks natural ones and a series of razor sharp blades just above his feet. "Admiring the work young Uzumaki?" Turning Naruto has to restrain himself from falling backwards as the hawks face is inches from his own. "Y..Yes..It's obviously very well made. I'm just wondering how you got them."

As the hawk lifts off his eyes briefly go to Sasuke before he looks ahead. "Sasuke helped retrieve them for me. My last summoner…He had caused me to lose them and Sasuke-san helped track them down. For that I've become his personal summon within the Hawk Clan. Doesn't hurt that he's a kind summoner and helps us even if he insists on keeping that Snake Contract." As Sasuke and Anko roll their eyes the hawk makes a noise that almost sounds like laughter as they continue across the sky.

-Land of Fire-

Nearing the border with Suna Team Guy quickly burns through the miles at a pace most teams would struggle to match for long. "Guy-sensei we're going to fast!" Before Guy can respond he calls for the team to halt as he sees movement coming their way. From the trees before them Pakkun jumps out and stops seeming instantly. "Ah you're Kaakshi's summon Pakkun right?" Nodding the small pug stretches a bit before speaking in his usual tone. "Yes. And he has a message for you. They're tracking the enemy down. I can tell you where they are on a map so you can meet Anko and Kakashi's teams."

Within moments Pakkun is leading Team Guy in the new direction. As the team heads for the border they are none the wiser to the one who was watching them. "This will be a problem. We need to report back." Fading back into the tree the plant like thing seems to instantly flow through the roots, soil, and other material until he rises up into a identical body standing atop a finger. "We have enemies incoming. A squad from Konoha led by Might Guy."

From across the large room the almost translucent figure of a man bearing a massive sword on his back narrows his eyes at the name. "So that strange man is coming? I can finally erase that stain on my record.." Tightening his grip on the handle of his blade the man's eyes narrow as another scoffs. "Let me go after them. It's been too long since I made a sacrifice." Glaring at man the first almost growls in anger as their leader looks between the two. "Kisame you go. You are closer. This jutsu is almost made for you with your high reserves. Give me 30% of your chakra. The rest of you focus on the seal we need to finish before more enemies arrive."

Miles away from Guy's team atop Sasuke's hawk Teams 7 and 8 alongside Chiyo quickly begin dropping as Kakashi motions to a clearing below. "We can't fly in. Our enemy is within a cave and they have their own flier. Sasuke you stay back unless needed so you can resummon a hawk in case we need another to chase down our enemy." Nodding Sasuke pops a solider pill before washing it down with some water even as the others prepare to move.

Almost before Kojo's talons hit the ground Teams 8 and 7 are leaping off the hawk while Sasuke again runs his fingers through the hawks head feathers before he returns. Forming up the two teams quickly begin moving towards the location Gaara is being held without even realizing their landing and movement was watched by the same strange thing who watched Team Guy. "More of them. Leader won't be happy with this."

Miles away Team Guy and Pakkun are nearing the border before they stop as Pakkun freezes and looks out to their east. "I sense a large chakra signature moving this way. Someone is coming." Looking to Neji Guy nods as Tenten and Lee move closer even as Tenten pulls out a pair of long, straight blades. Activating his Byakugan without a sign Neji's eyes widen as he sees the enemy approaching. "He's coming in quickly. And his reserves almost match Naruto's…" While Guy doesn't appear worried his team seems a bit intimidated at the prospect of fighting someone with Kage level reserves.

From the east they see what looks almost like a fin slicing through the stone before a massive man leaps out and lands before them. Eyes widening Guy's body settles into a loose stance as the man glares at him. "You are..!" Briefly flicking his eyes between his sensei and the Akatsuki member Lee's left hand twitches near a small bottle on his hip. "Do you know him, Guy-sensei?" With a all together far too serious face Guy shakes his head minutely before responding. "Who are you..?"

Even as the blue skinned man's eyes seem to flare with rage Neji and Tenten can barely restrain themselves from facepalming at their sensei's antics. Within the cave again the thing seems to stand a bit taller before looking towards the leader and his ringed eyes. "Two other Konoha teams are heading this way. They are led by Kakashi Hatake and Anko Mitarashi. They will arrive here soon if they are not delayed or stopped." From the center of the group the same man who spoke before looks to Deidara with narrowed eyes.

"It's awfully loud this time, Deidara." Barely restraining a fearful shiver at the anger hidden just below the surface Deidara nods before looking at Gaara. "Well yes…this target was far stronger than the..last two." Across from Deidara Sasori scoffs before looking at the jinchuriki who continues to cry out in pain. "That is why I said your talents had no place in a spy mission." Narrowing his eyes at his partner Deidara's anger trumps his fear of the man leading their organization. "Sasori, my man, if I remember right some of your moves were pretty flashy too."

"WHAT!?" Before Sasori can continue he's silenced by a look from their leader. "Enough arguing both of you. Focus on the jutsu." Looking around the room at the mostly translucent figures the man seems to weigh his options. "So then who will go this time?" From across the room the same man from before with the large scythe seems almost too eager to go as he is opens his mouth. "It's more shinobi from Konoha this time as well." Instantly the man's mouth clicks shut as he scowls as the quietest of their number looks up with his Sharigan spinning. "It's decided then."

Miles away Teams 7 and 8 leap down from the treetops as they draw ever closer to their target before Kakashi throws his arms out wide and stops suddenly. "Everyone stop!" Before them a familiar figure stands with his Alatsuki robe open revealing black Anbu style armor and the hilt of a blade. Instantly Sasuke's Sharingan flare to life as his chakra rages in tune with his emotions. "Those eyes…So this must be.."

Nearly fifty miles away Team Guy stares down Kisame who's focus is solely on Guy. "This man has an absurd amount of chakra…I haven't seen someone with this much since Naruto left." Eyes widening slightly at the news Lee's right hand twitches openign a small bottle fastened to his belt. "You're saying that you really don't remember?" While the man's tone seems relaxes Neji nervously watches as his chakra seems to burn in anger at the perceived slight.

"You…It can't be!" Smiling widely the man reveals shark like teeth as Guy seems to have remembered him. "It seems you have remembered me." With these words Neji's Byakugan briefly flicks over to his sensei and he sighs internally at the man's confused face. "..You've met me before?" Again the enemies chakra surges in anger as he leans forward while focusing solely on Guy. "This peculiar beast seems to have the mind of a beast as well. Oh well, I will help you remember soon."

Nearer the Akatsuki hideout Naruto gulps nervously as his chains slowly slide out of his palms. "Shisui Uchiha.." Eyes widening Sakura looks between Sasuke and Shisui even as her teammates chakra becomes scarily still despite his rapidly spinning Sharingan. Beside Kakashi Chiyo steps forward slightly while her eyes seem to finally notice Shisui before them. "So this the brat who killed the elders within his own clan.." Before them Shisui seems almost bored as his eyes seem to lazily flick between each member of the two teams. "It's been a long time..Kakashi-san, Naruto-kun, and Sasuke-san.."

"You bastard.." From both Naruto and Sasuke the words echo out as both seem set on burning a hole through the man with their eyes. Slowly drawing his blade Shisui seems almost amused by their actions. "Not just me and Sasuke..But Gaara too. I'm going to crush you guys!" Instantly Kakashi's senses begin to scream at him as Shisui's free hand rises in a half rat seal. "Everyone do not look into his eyes!" Instantly all but Sasuke look down slightly while the Uchiha continues staring resolute.

Staring down Team Guy Kisame continues to laugh but Guy and his team can sense the killing intent flowing out of the man. "So this is Akatsuki?" Continuing to laugh Kisame tosses the wrapped sword shaped object high into the air before forming a single seal. "Suiton: Exploding Water Shockwave!" To Team Guy's shock the formerly dry and rocky ground around them is quickly flooded. As the water continues to rise before them Kisame laughs once more as he catches his wrapped sword. "Here I come." Reflexively taking a step back Tenten's blades begin to arc with lightning as she channels her chakra through them.

With Teams Kakashi and Anko Shisui's hand seems to fall without a jutsu being cast even as one hand remains on his blade. "Kakashi what should we do?" Drawing her curved kunai Anko looks quickly between Kakashi and Shisui. "Rescuing the Kazekage takes precedence. Me and my team will handle Shisui. Anko you and yours will continue on." Nodding the two teams prepare to move before suddenly Shisui fades away before reappearing before them with his blade drawn and coming down at Sakura.

Before he can draw blood Sasuke seems to teleport between the two and stops it with two kunai. "Anko go!" Instantly Anko and her team plus Chiyo break while Sakura, Kakashi, Kiba, and Jūgo move to confront Shisui. Jumping back before Jūgo can strike him Shisui's eyes narrow as the man's skin darkens slightly as a shield and spear seem to rise out of his arms. "So you're from that clan.." As he says this Shisui's eyes flick away from them as he senses a massive surge of chakra. "So he's confronting them already.."

With Team Guy the water seems to perpetually go back and forth forcing the team to continuously leap above it's waves to avoid being swept under. Chuckling again as the water settles Kisame's eyes seem filled with equal parts bloodlust and amusement at the sight before he slips under the water. "Where is he?" Before Lee can receive an answer the water once again surges before them forming a massive wave. As the four leap above the water Kisame rises from it mid swing seeking to take out Guy.

Barely dodging the blow Guy smirks as he's able to quickly turn and launch a heavy kick into the man's chest. But to his shock instead of being blown back the man explodes in a burst of water. "A Water Clone!" "You didn't have time to remember yet, did you?" As Guy lands before his team he hears the man laughing as he rises again out of the water seeking to strike him. "Konoha Rising Wind!" Before Kisame can react Lee manages to kick his hand holding his blade forcing it to fly out of his grip. "Eight Trigrams Air Palm!"

Unable to dodge in time Kisame is sent flying back by Neji's jutsu but is able to grab his blade as it comes down. Slamming it into the water like it's solid earth Kisame is able to stop his movement quickly. Seeing a spiked and seal wrapped sphere coming his way his blocks immediately with his blade. As the seals light up the sphere is blasted apart even as more small blades are unsealed around it. While the explosion and shrapnel obscure most people's vision Neji shakes his head. "Damn he got away." Lowering her arms small seals upon Tenten's hands fade away.

Bringing out a pair of short blades Tenten looks around before looking to Neji. "Where did he go?" Slowly looking around the four watch anxiously as a shadow quickly moves around under the water. "Neji! Where is he?" Quickly scanning the area Neji locks in on the man below the water. "Directly ahead. And he's rising." Pulling out a set of tonfas Lee stares as a dark spot moves closer and closer before stopping. "There he is." Rising from the water the man seems to glare at the three before he looks towards Guy.

"Honestly, these three kids are bothersome. What a bother." Gasping in shock as the man's torso and sword are exposed Guy seems to have come to an epiphany. "Suiton ninjutsu. And that massive sword…You're.." Eyes again lighting up with an almost predatory delight Kisame seems delighted at Guy's realization. "It seems like you finally remembered me." In the split second he looks away Kisame misses Guy's small grin before he schools his face and looks away from Kisame. "I get the feeling I've met you somewhere…"

"You really can't remember him…" Barely able to keep herself from groaning in annoyance Tenten doesn't miss the enraged look in their foes eyes. Hand tightening on the sword's handle Kisame's anger focuses solely on Guy. "You really have a talent for rubbing people the wrong way…I'll throughly torture you.", quickly twisting his blade till it's resting on his right shoulder Kisame smirks, "Until you are able to remember me." As Kisame's anger reaches new heights miles away Shisui stares down Team Kakashi as they block him in.

"Do you really think you can stop me Kakashi-san?" Pulling up his headband to reveal his Sharingan Kakashi smiles under his mask as Anko and her team disappear into the forest beyond him. "This isn't like our Anbu days. You won't catch me off guard this time." Before he even finishes Kakashi blitzes forward alongside Sasuke while Kiba and Akamaru leap into the air with their claws out. Barely slipping between Sasuke and Kakashi's simultaneous strikes Shisui kicks Akamaru away before leaping back as Sakura's fist slams down into the ground he was on shattering it.

Staring down Guy and his team Kisame seems to have outwardly calmed down. "Well then.." Watching his opponent Guy's body drops almost imperceptibly as he leans forward. "Now, our counterattack commences. First I'll create an opening. Once I succeed immediately attack." Nodding the three seem to ready themselves for a fight with Lee holding his small flaks between his lips even as he holds two tonfas in a ready position. "Roger!" Smirking at the three Kisame seems amused by both their confidence and Guy's.

"Do you really think I'll shown an opening that easily? I'll make sure you change that thought soon enough.." Suddenly the two Jonin charge at each other with Guy's attempted kick being aborted as Kisame nearly slices into him. As Guy dodges Neji showing a surprising amount of speed gets between the two. "Jūken!" To Kisame's surprise Neji's strike seems unnaturally forceful even as he blocks it. Briefly looking down at the Hyūga he notices the seals on leather vambraces glowing. "Interesting.."

Before he can attack Neji though Kisame sees a shadow coming down at him. In a display of both skill and strength he reverses the swing of his blade forcing Lee to block causing his tonfas to shatter as Lee blocks the unexpected blow. As Lee uses his lips to tip back the small flask to drink it's contents Kisame hears the sounds of paper in the wind. Swinging his sword to cover his front the man smiles as it blocks the explosive tag wrapped kunai.

As the smoke clears Kisame laughs at Tenten, and is again intrigued to see seals on her gloves, to annoy the young weapons user. "Did you do something?" Even as he says this though Kisame is surprised to see holes in his blade's wrapping. "Unusually strong Jūken and new seals wielded by two members..Strange." "That sword really is bothersome.." Standing slightly before and to the right of Tenten Guy's eyes widen at the kunoichi's words. "Now I see. That sword.."

Eyes alight Kisame turns towards Guy with a dangerous smile on his face. "You remembered!" Before Guy can answer the question his team, with one exception, mentally sigh as they recognize the look on his face. "That's your weapon!" Barely resisting the urge to give into his own annoyance Neji looks over at his sensei with a rapid twitch in one eye. "..You can understand that just by looking." To Kisame's eternal annoyance Guy shakes his head quickly before smiling.

"But there is a big difference between clearly understanding and not understanding." Resisting the urge to smack her sensei Tenten loudly sighs at his antics. "As expected of Guy-sensei! Each of his words alone has a deeper meaning!" Looking over at her friend Tenten sighs at Lee's words. "What are you talking about now? Stop doing this every time." Sighing Neji focuses on their foe who seems to be too stunned to speak. "Give it up Tenten."

"I'll withdraw my previous remarks..Your mind is below the level of a beast's." Shouting for his team to follow him Guy charges forward again before leaping into the air. "Dynamic Entry!" As Guy launches his attack miles away Kakashi and his team keep up the pressure on Shisui by constantly attacking. As the rogue Uchiha blocks a volley of kunai from Sasuke he senses a massive build up of chakra to his left. Leaping back he turns his head slightly only to see Jūgo standing there smirking at him as well over a dozen barrels have risen out of his arms and are growing brighter. "Chakra Blast!"

Using the jutsu that made him feared across nations Shisui barely dodges the attack and is internally shocked by it's power as the forest beyond is devastated. Attempting to catch the orange haired boy in a genjutsu Shisui winces as Jūgo's chakra reacts violently and shatters his illusion before it can form. Dropping down Shisui smirks as Kiba and *A-Kiba's Gatsūga misses him by inches. "Katon: Great Fireball Jutsu!" As Sasuke leaps above his teammates he fires own jutsu to cancel out Shisui's the rogue seems to multiply as he charges at Kakashi and Sakura.

While Sasuke and his team move to counter Shisui's moves they can't help but worry about Anko and her team. As they continue fighting though miles away Guy's near constant attacks have whipped the water into a frenzy. Even as Kisame blocks one strike with the side of his sword Guy uses it as a springboard to leap up and launch another spinning kick at his head. Dodging the blow Kisame uses his blade to form a wall of water only for Guy to burst through it and attempt to punch him. Catching the fist with his free hand Kisame has to desperately lean back as Guy launches yet another kick towards his face.

To his shock Guy shows a almost inhuman level of flexibility as he uses his other foot to break his hold on his blade. Pulling the sword away from Kisame Guy's team all rush to attack. "NOW!" Stripped of his blade Kisame grits his teeth in anger before responding. "Water Clone Jutsu!" As Neji, Lee, and Tenten seek to strike three clones of Kisame rise out of the water catching their fists mid strike. Stymied the three are shocked by the clones strength before Kisame forms a second seal while a predatory grin spreads across his face. "Water Prison Jutsu!"

Unable to break away in time the three are quickly engulfed in water and left unable to move. Attempting to slice the man with his own blade Guy suddenly shouts in pain as small spikes sprout from it's handle forcing him to release the blade. "Lee! Neji! Tenten!" Forced to pull back he can only watch as the prisons around the three strengthen. "This isn't good.." Stepping slightly forward from his clones Kisame smirks due to Guy's worried expression. "These brats where better than expected.."

"I can't move." Looking over at his teammates Lee's worry only grows as both of them bear the same worried expression. "I can't breathe.." Desperately trying to activate a seal on her wrist Tenten has to force herself to calm down. "Now we can finally fight without interference." Smirking Kisame holds out his left hand as his sword moves through the water back to him. "This blade Samehada will only allow me to wield it." Flicking his eyes towards his still bleeding hands Guy realizes what happened before seamlessly moving his bag before him.

"I see using an enemy's weapon was foolish. So I guess I must use my own." Quickly spinning his nunchaku manages to send a blast of air towards Kisame surprising him. "I see..This is going to be interesting." Lifting Samehada Kisame's shark like teeth are on full display as he smiles. Charging forward the Akatsuki member is surprised when Guy's weapon not only survives contact with Samehada but that he's able to knock it up and away. Before Guy can follow through with a follow up strike to his head Kisame dips below the black nunchuka.

Weaving beside the man Kisame attempts to bisect him only to grit his teeth in frustration as Guy dodges the strike. Showing his speed Guy begins to relentlessly attack only for Kisame to either dodge or block each of his strikes. As the two fight they cause the water under them to burst up from the forces unleashed. Watching in awe Neji, Tenten, and Lee each try to figure out how to break out of their prisons.

As the three watch Guy and Kisame battle across the water they're stunned to see Guy effortlessly destroy a clone that appeared beside him just as it formed. Closing his eyes Lee senses his body begin to react to what he drank earlier as his muscles relaxes slightly. "Almost ready…" Barely holding back a cough as her lungs scream for air Tenten grows increasingly worried for herself and her team.

Watching Tenten Guy looks away from Kisame who's eyes fill with rage at the perceived dismissal of him. Putting all his strength into a overhead strike he manages to smash Guy down with only the chain of his nunchuka stopping Samehada. "What monstrous strength..Wait you're..!" Nearly driven mad by Guy's prior forgetfulness Kisame pulls one fist back before it rockets forward towards Guy. "It's too late for you to remember now!"

With force that would break most shinobi Kisame punches Guy directly in the chest sending him rocketing down into the water. Coughing up a bit of blood in response Guy only stops when he impacts the ground far below. "I need to get them out..Tenten is at her limit." With a predatory grin Kisame looks down through the water at Guy. "I'm not done torturing you yet! Suiton: Five Hungry Sharks!" From Kisame's hands visible tendrils of chakra dive into the water before five nearly translucent sharks coalesce.

"First meal." Kicking off just before the first shark smashes through the rock Guy begins to swim for the surface. "Second Meal!" As Guy tries to swim to the surface he's knocked aside as one of the sharks strikes him. "Third Meal!" Unable to react in time Guy is caught in the jaws of yet another shark. Using a move more akin to Jūken over his own Goken he manages to break free only to see the shark's right side regrow. "No effect huh.."

"Fourth Meal!" From behind another of Kisame's sharks slams into Guy making him cough up more blood from the impact. "Fifth Meal!" Before he can recover Guy is driven into the rocks below by one shark just before the other four repeat it's attack. Using the speed and strength he's known for Guy begins to damage and drive away the water sharks only for them to almost instantly recover. From far above Kisame grins wickedly as he looks down upon Guy. "My five sharks shall completely devoir you and leave no bones!"

With the water prisons Tenten again coughs as her body desperately cries out for air. Watching this Guy stands even as above him the sharks continue to circle him. "I can't allow myself to be slowed down any longer..I have no choice." From above Kisame notices Guy's change in stance and how his chakra seems to be building up. "What's he planning?" "The Eight Inner Gates..Kaimon..Kai! Kyūmon..Kai!" Sensing Guy's chakra surging ever higher Kisame directs his sharks to begin moving closer for a simultaneous attack. "Seimon..Kai!" Across Guy's body his blood vessels expand carrying more oxygen to his muscles turning his skin a dark red.

"Shomōn..Kai!" Eyes widening Kisame is astonished as Guy seems to stand taller somehow despite his earlier injuries and fatigue. "What's this incredible stamina recuperation speed…" "Tomon…Kai!" To Kisame's shock the water around Guy begins to bubble and boil as unbelievable amounts of chakra seem to flow out of the man. The sheer pressure of it alone begins to drive his sharks back and cause multiple, massive rings of water to begin rise far above his head. Watching from afar both Guy's team and Pakkun watch in shock as multiple geysers form solely due to the chakra's pressure.

Miles away Jūgo senses the battle between Team Guy and Kisame but is forced to focus on his own team's. "They'll be okay." Twisting to the side on instinct a shield grows out of his left arm deflecting yet another strike. Jumping back the orange haired shinobi places his palm on Kiba and begins pouring chakra into his comrade. As the number of small cuts on Kiba's arms and left leg heals he hisses in pain. "Just how fast is this guy? I swear it's like fighting Naruto except he's not using any clones.." Nodding Jūgo takes up a position before Sakura and Kiba as the kunoichi double checks the Inuzuka's closed wounds.

"Sasuke and Kakashi-sensei can match him…But I'm still too slow..Dammit." Before Kiba can say another word Sakura manages to stop yet another strike by Shisui with one of her kunai. "Hell no!" Kicking the man away she's surprised to see the blow connected as the rogue Uchiha is sent rocketing back. Coughing up blood he barely manages to avoid a joint attack by Sasuke and Kakashi. Narrowing his eyes at the older Uchiha Kakashi nods as Sasuke takes the lead.

Forcing Shisui away from their comrades Sasuke and Kakashi together manage to keep him on the backfoot. Forced to dodge ever closer attacks Shisui freezes for a millisecond as the world seems to move like the waves at sea. Breaking the *genjutsu Shisui begins to turn towards Sakura only for the world to move again. Forced to constantly break the genjutsu Shisui can only grit his teeth in anger at the kunoichi. Finally breaking free he suddenly hears the sound of birds chirping moving ever closer to him from behind. "Chidori!"

Barely dodging Kakashi's attack Shisui breathes in and prepares to respond in kind only for all around him to turn into countless cherry blossoms. Attempting to dispel the *genjutsu he's stunned when it reasserts itself before his vision can fully clear. Forced to continuously dispel the jutsu Shisui can barely react as he again hears the sound of a birds chirping. Finally dispelling the genjutsu with a large pulse of chakra the last things he see's is Sakura standing with Jūgo giving her chakra before Sasuke's right hand pierces through his heart from behind. "Chidori!"

Now standing within a small dry area formed from the water being displaced Guy's shouts can be heard by all above the roaring of the geysers. "The Eight Inner Gates! KEIMON…KAI!" While before Guy's chakra could be compared to a bonfire now it's like a raging inferno as the water in a large area around him is instantly flash boiled away. Leaping up and away Kisame can only watch as his sharks are completely vaporized. "What is this?"

"AHHHHH!" Focused solely on Guy now as his chakra continues to spike neither Kisame nor his clones notice Neji and Lee beginning to move. Directing his chakra to each of his tenketsu Neji targets the weak spot of the prison while Lee copies Guy. "Eight Trigrams Sixty-Four Palms!" Seeing Lee shatter the prison with a series of consecutive punches Neji targets the clone holding Tenten. "Leaf Great Whirlwind!" While the clone is dispelled by a near perfect series of blows Lee's is sent flying into one of the nearby rock formations. "What the.."

As the clone dispels into a puddle of water Neji catches Tenten and helps her stand. Kicking Kisame with the force that would break most shinobi Guy sends the man flying into the air without Samehada. Jumping up from water pillar to pillar Guy is soon directly in front of the man. Recognizing the stance Guy is in Lee nods to his teammates. "Morning Peacock!" Striking so fast the air combusts around his fists Guy proceeds to pummel Kisame to the point the man's heart is crushed under his blows.

As Kisame's body strikes the water it is still moving so fast that it breaks the stones underneath upon impact. With it's source of chakra cut off the water quickly evaporates as Guy lands. Wincing slightly from the pain his moves caused Guy and his team walk up to Kisame's corpse. Staring down at the corpse intently Neji narrows his eyes as the remaining chakra within it seems to change. "What the…"

Before their very eyes the man seems to liquify briefly before changing how he looks. Instead of the blue skin, gills, and shark like teeth laying before them is shorter, tan man with dark brown hair. Shaking his team out of their shock Guy orders Pakkun to continue leading them to the rendezvous point even as his body screams for rest. Taking a soldier pill the taijutsu master forces his body to move faster to make up for lost time.

Miles away Sasuke's momentary joy suddenly sours as "Shisui's" body changes into that of someone else. "I thought something was strange. But who is this?" Mentally taking note of the man's turban, black hair, and now bloody kimono bearing Suna's symbol Kakashi orders his team to move out. Putting a hand on Sasuke's shoulder he can see the confusion and indignation in the boy's eyes. "Let it go for now. I'm sure you'll get another chance Sasuke. And next time it'll be the real one."

Nodding the Uchiha prodigy takes off after his team alongside his sensei leaving the bloody body behind. Many, many miles from both teams Shisui Uchiha opens his eyes causing his partner Kisame to chuckle darkly. "So you're finished too?" Nodding the Uchiha and him focus on the draw of their rings. Within the cave holding Gaara near translucent avatars of Kisame and Shisui open their eyes. "So you were both defeated?"

Nodding the two focus on the jinchuriki who is still having his bijū extracted. "So you wasted My agents and did not even buy us another day? Disappointing.." Looking over at Sasori the leader seems annoyed at the rogue puppeteer's attitude. "Through my jutsu they were members of the Akatsuki. If ever so shortly..They were no longer your agents. And they served their purpose. Zetsu be sure to dispose of the corpses." Nodding the strange plantlike member seems to lose all interest in the world around him.

As the teams from Konoha close in the jonin order their teams to slow. Reaching a noticeable hill in the countryside Anko imitates a bird call while ordering her team to be ready. Hearing two similar calls from their immediate east and south east she steps out just as Guy and Kakashi do as well. "So Scarecrow is the traitor dead?" Shaking his head Kakashi immediately notices Guy's reaction before motioning for his team to join him. "No and Guy based off your reaction can I assume you faced an enemy who's face changed after death?"

Nodding the usually hyperactive Jonin seems disappointed in himself. "We did he initially had blueish skin, gills, and wielded a massive blade…But after I slew him using Morning Peacock…He changed into someone else…And he bore Suna's crest.." Shocked at the news Chiyo quickly interrogates the two Jonin before cursing. Explaining who the two were the elderly kunoichi writes a quick message before sending it off on a artificial bird she draws from robes.

Looking at the teams Kakashi sighs before looking in the direction of their enemy. "I think it would be wise for us to rest. And before you start Naruto look at the others. Two thirds of us have fought recently, one has repeatedly summoned larger..summons, and only your team is relatively fresh. We rest a few hours then strike simultaneously." Nodding Guy and Anko quickly direct their teams to begin setting up a quick camp.

Eyes turning red from the Kyūbbi's chakra Naruto nonetheless mods before he gets to work setting up trap and alert seals. As the teams sit down for a quick meal and planning Naruto quietly picks at his food while constantly looking out past their camp's edge. "Naruto-san..", as Naruto turns towards Lee his red eyes and the darkened birth marks on his face are still visible, "I heard from Sasuke-san that earlier many seals upon your body became visible. May I ask what use they served?"

Smiling briefly for the first time since the mission began Naruto nods before taking off his jacket and actively directing chakra in his body. Across his arms, neck, and glowing faintly beneath his shirt seals briefly appear. "Yeah sure Lee..But they're not that interesting. They are long term *weight and *chakra restriction seals. Kaito-nii applied them a year ago to increase the difficulty of my training." Looking at Naruto Sasuke raises an eyebrow before putting his food down.

"If they're so useful for training why not apply them to all shinobi? If all our comrades grow stronger that's a boon right?" Holding his left hand at chest height Naruto tilts it back and forth for a bit. "It could but…these seals have a few downsides. They must be made partially with your own blood to ensure they don't overly burden you and they are extremely complicated…Last I remember only around two dozen in our clan and maybe another dozen in the Kazama Clan are skilled enough to apply them."

Surprised at the difficulty Sasuke thinks back to when he saw the seals earlier and realizes just how complex they truly were. "Ahh I see. But still surely it would make sense to apply them to say our Anbu or Jonin forces? Such a boost to our most elite would pay great dividends later on." Nodding Naruto looks at the three Jonin who like the others are listening intently. "It could but there is..another cost to these seals. The user's body must be able to handle the additional strain they place on your chakra network. They continuously draw chakra from you and if your reserves aren't up to it you could cripple yourself. Some like Kakashi-sensei would be able to handle it but others like Kurenai-sensei wouldn't. It's why we only use them sparingly and instead use physical weights we can place weaker seals on instead."

Nodding slowly Sasuke looks down at his mostly finished meal before shrugging as he resumes eating. Surprised at Sasuke's acceptance Naruto also goes back to eating his own dinner slowly while Chiyo watches him from across the fire. "That Naruto…So he's truly of the Uzumaki Clan?" Nodding Kakashi lowers his food ever so slightly before raising his one visible eyebrow in a unspoken question. "I am sure you can understand why I doubted it…His attitude my ring true for that Clan but his…hair and…actions do not."

Chuckling at Chiyo's words Anko aims her fork at her much like a kunai. "Naruto may not seem like it but he is rather smart in some ways. When it comes to battle and seals he's a natural in many ways much like the rest of his clan. It's why he was able to beat Gaara." Surprised at her words Chiyo watches Naruto much more closely for the rest of the night. As dawn breaks the three teams quickly pack up and eat as they move on the Akatsuki hideout following Pakkun's trail.

As the sun rises the teams quickly close the distance while those within the cave grow ever more agitated. "We must send another team to delay them." Nodding the leader of the Akatsuki looks around the group before settling on their sole lone operative. "Zetsu you can slow them can you not?" Nodding the strange black and white man seems to smile viciously. "Of course I can. But what of the jinchuriki?" From across the room black eyes turn red.

"Capture if you can. But do not show them all your abilities. We are barely halfway done. Slow them for as long as possible." Nodding the strange plant like man seems to be annoyed by the limit. "As you wish Pain-sama. The Leaf trash shall die slowly." As the three teams move ever closer they all stop as a strange figure rises out of the ground before them. Wearing an Akatsuki robe but with a strange half white half black visage visible behind what appears to be a fly trap.

"What the hell.." Immediately Naruto's senses go on high alert as within him the Kyūbi seems to grow incredibly angry. Almost feeling the fox smashing against it's cage as he looks out through Naruto's eyes. Knowing Fuu is experiencing likely the same thing Naruto's chains begin to slide out of his palms and seven spots in his back. "I can sense you hate him but why.." From within the Fox freezes and his chakra seems to freeze with it. "Just this once I will fight with you…I sense His chakra in that thing.."

Stunned at the bijū's words Naruto notices that his chakra seems to be melding with Naruto's own. While not noticeable to the others at first they soon notice Naruto's normally golden chains taking on a red tinge along the link's edges and blades. Meanwhile upon Fū's back two orange and green wings sprout from her lower back allowing to lift off. Staring down the unknown Akatsuki member the fifteen shinobi all get a vague sense of wrongness from him.

"Who are you?" Keeping his Sharingan covered Kaakshi stares down the unknown enemy who simply stares back in disgust. "I am an agent of Pain-sama's will. And I am the one who will kill all you scum." Before anyone can even contemplate the man's split voice his chakra begins to surge. "Suiton: Water Dragon Missile!" From just behind the man a truly massive dragon forms before it rockets towards the gathered teams.

Leaping away Naruto and Sasuke end up landing on the same branch and nod to each other as they begin their own signs. "Katon: Great Fireball Jutsu!" "Fūton: Great Breakthrough!" Overcharged by Naruto's wind jutsu Sasuke's flames turn blue with a white core as it flies towards their target. Seeming to strike the strange plant like man the fireball erupts instantly charring the surrounding trees. But to their shock as forge like flames slowly die down there is no body.

Rising from the surface behind them the man nearly gores Sasuke with a blade before Naruto's chains grab the blade and wrench it from his hand. "You're fun to fight try not to die too quickly. Your friends can all die painfully though Kyūbi jinchuriki. Raiton: Electromagnetic Murder!" Targeting the others who where moving to strike together Zetsu has a sick smile on his face as the lightning draws ever closer to them. "NO! Fūton: Tempest Breath!" Scowling as his jutsu is blocked Zetsu focuses on Naruto. "I guess we'll have to deal with you first. Pain-sama simply said don't kill remember."

Again confused by the strange man's way of talking Naruto nevertheless leaps back while his chains shot forward seeking to ensnare him. Weaving between the razor sharp chains the man smirks only to scowl again as Fū dives down upon him. "*Silk Net!" Barely lifting off before she strikes the man Fū releases a slightly glowing green net that seems to stick to the upper portions of the venus flytrap like growths covering his upper body. From his sleeve the man pulls yet another blade and begins slashing away at the net only to suddenly freeze as two hands pierce his chest from behind. "Chidori!"

As Kakashi and Sasuke leap back they leave twin holes in the man's chest and robes but to their shock the man seems to cackle madly before standing once more. Through the holes in his cloak everyone can see the pale white almost flesh like skin and body beneath heal. "Ohh you'll have to try better than that. We are the will of our creator and will slaughter you." Charging at Sasuke the strange man suddenly leaps back as Hinata and Neji attack from the left and right.

"Eight Trigrams: Sixty-Four Palms!" Struck by over half their blows the man seems to stagger under the blows before roaring in anger. "Katon: Dragon Flame Bomb!" Leaping before Neji despite his shouts Hinata prays her jutsu will work. "*Suiton: Kaiten!" Around the two cousins a dome of water and chakra forms splitting the attack in two and extinguishing it's flames. Stunned by the defeat of his jutsu Zetsu leaps back as Anko and Guy attack together. Gritting his off-white teeth in anger Zetsu grows increasingly angry at their continued resistance of the Leaf shinobi.

Ducking under a volley of kunai and shiriken from Tenten he's suddenly smashed into the ground. Atop him Lee rises with a strange look in his eyes and a slight wobble to his movements. Below him the man seems to turn his torso around and tries to gut the young taijutsu user with a long kunai. To his shock Lee bends almost unnaturally back before reversing his movement and hammering him yet again. "Wat..wazz..dat..forr?! I did nuthin to you! Yu weird plant man.."

Seeming to merge with the ground Zetsu reappears a few feet from everyone but focuses on Jūgo who's skin is darkening slightly while large axe like blades form over his arms. Blitzing forward with almost unnatural speed Jūgo nearly takes the man's head and upper torso with his first strike. Shredding the man's cloak even more with his full-up strikes he reveals yet more of the man's strange physique. Like his face the man's torso is a pale white on his left and pitch black on the right.

"What is he?" Confused by the man's unusual body Kakashi signals to Anko and Guy before the three strike together. Using his speed Guy manages to kick the man high into the air allowing Kakashi and Anko to land lethal blows. With Anko's kunai in his liver and Kakashi's in his left lung the *man falls lifelessly to the forest floor. Landing the three Jonin stare apprehensively at the man as Neji, Hinata, and Sasuke all look over the man with their dōjutsu active. Nodding the three report the man's chakra fading away before Kakashi calls for them to move on.

As the teams leave the area none notice the man's right eye opening back up and glaring hatefully after them. "Next time I face them I will tear them apart. As will I." Returning back to their true body the two in one nod towards their leader. "They have been delayed. But they are still on their way and one of their members can somehow channel sage chakra." Looking up sharply the various members who understand what that means look at each other before focusing back on their seal.

Miles away but moving ever closer the teams from Konoha and Chiyo soon see the edge of the forest it and beyond the place Gaara is. "Be ready for anything. Anko you and your team are to retrieve Gaara, Guy you and yours will provide assistance to mine, and my team we will confront the Akatsuki members with Chiyo-sama." Nodding the teams soon reach the edge of the cliff and look down to see a massive torii gate before a even larger boulder.

"There's a seal on that boulder Kakashi-sensei. Let me break it before we get rid of the boulder." Nodding Kakashi directs everyone to form up around Naruto as they jump down and stand atop the water. "The seal has four backups. I'll need to break them all at once. This may take a moment." Closing his eyes Naruto calms his chakra as four chains rise out of his back and one from his right palm. As he walks forward the four move randomly at first before they settle above a small sealing tag each. "Sakura or Lee the second I break this seal you two smash boulder."

Nodding the two move up slightly behind and to either side of Naruto. As he concentrates on the seals. Lines of kanji spread from his chains encircling the seals that begin to flicker from red to blue. Eyes furrowed in concentration Naruto slowly begins to burn away the seal's traps and connections. Suddenly eyes opening wide Naruto smiles before his chains stab through the sealing paper with five overlapping rings of kanji spreading out from them.

Ripping the seals from the boulder Naruto has to hold back a smirk as the tags turn to dust while his chains pull back. As Naruto nods to Sakura and Lee the rest of the rescue team ready themselves for combat. "Sakura-chan I'll strike first. You strike after." Nodding Sakura readied herself while Lee began to breathe in slowly before blitzing forward and striking the center of the boulder. For a moment it seemed like his strike had done nothing before deep cracks spread across it's face. "Now!"

"CHA!" Showing speed near equal to her teammates Sakura rushes forward and strikes the same spot as Lee. Instantly the rock seems to explode creating a massive cloud of dust that shrouds the area. "*Fūton: Gentle Breeze." As the dust cloud is blown away to everyone's horror they see Deidara stepping upon Gaara who is laying on the ground barely moving. "Oh look Sasori my man, the Leaf sent more scum to stop us." Enraged at the sight Naruto nearly charges the two before Kakashi puts his arm out before him.

"Naruto stop. They want you to lose control. Follow the plan." Nodding Naruto nevertheless remains enraged with his eyes turning blood red. "I will kill you." Together Anko and Naruto rush towards Deidara while Team 7 moves to confront Sasori alongside Chiyo. Supporting Team 7 Guy and his team move to drive the two Akatsuki apart while Hinata, Fū, and Shino back up their friend and sensei. "Too slow brat!"

Lifting off atop a pale, white clay hawk Deidara nods to his partner as Team 8 give chase. "Sasori you deal with your brats and catch up at the next hideout!" As his hawk weaves through Natuto's chains and Anko's snakes to everyone's horror Gaara seems to reach out to them before his eyes roll back into his head. "GAARA!" Laughing as he takes to the sky Deidara releases a small number of spider bombs to slow his pursuers.

Racing up river he looks back and is surprised to see Fū flying after him while the rest of Team 8 follow as well. "Oh look another flier. Well let's see how good you are brat!" Directing his creation to fly faster Deidara laughs maniacally as he releases multiple smaller bird bombs. To his slight shock Fū manages to destroy the bombs with explosive tag wrapped kunai. "You're not the only flier anymore!" Before he can retort Deidara's eyes widen before he directs his creation to roll left as golden chains nearly tear it apart.

Swinging just below them along the massive roots that cross the river Naruto's blood red eyes glare up at Deidara. "Ohh scary. Come and get me brat!" Laughing as he releases more bombs Deidara's clay hawk begins to rise dodging a near endless volley of kunai from below Deidara's eyes widen as one with a sealing tag wrapped around it's handle flies just past his face. "HAHA YOU MISSED!" As he looks back Deidara's eyes narrow at the smug look on Naruto's face before he looks ahead.

To his shock the tag detonates but instead of an explosion it releases a thick cloud of powder that he doesn't recognize. Before he can get through the cloud the sun breaks through the clouds above and the powder not only reflects the light but magnifies it. "AHHHH MY EYES! WHAT THE HELL IS THIS!" Cork screwing through the sky randomly as his vision is completely ruined for a time Deidara directs his construct to keep rising.

As his vision slowly clears he sees the hideout he just left seem to shudder as dust spews out of the opening. "Sasori my man, you better not die to these unartistic fools!" Within the cave Kakashi orders Team Guy back as Chiyo warns him of Sasori's poison. "Guy you and your team need to pull back for now. The cave is too small for both our teams to fight effectively against one foe."

Despite staring down the six shinobi in the cave and four more just outside Sasori seems unimpressed. Firing off volleys of poisoned senbon from his mouth the puppet master constantly focuses on Chiyo who has a sad expression on her face. "I'd heard that you'd retired long ago." Looking back at her grandson's puppet Chiyo's notes the subtle marks of it's many hidden weapons. "I suddenly wanted to see my grandson's face again." Eyes narrowing in annoyance Sasori looks at each member of Team 7 in turn before focusing back on Chiyo.

Noting Sakura and Kiba's barely restrained fear Chiyo steps forward slightly. "Do not fear. I'm here. You two step back." Putting her arms within her sleeves Chiyo suddenly pulls them out with visible chakra strings holding up ten kunai. "Assault Blade." Suddenly the kunai become coated with chakra before shooting forward towards Sasori. As the kunai approach Sasori's tail moves between him and them knocking them aside only for the blades to fly towards him again slashing through his robes.

As his robe rips apart Sasori's eyes narrow while his tail whips back and forth. "If you won't back down. I guess I'll add you to my collection like the boy will be." Shocked at the sight of the man before them Sakura and the others is not a man at all but a large puppet. "That large demon masked shell for the back, the razor-sharp segmented tail, and the overly large left arm. You still like your Hiruko puppet don't you Sasori?"

Suddenly understanding Sasuke's Sharingan activates unconsciously as he looks for the puppet master but he see's no threads of chakra. "Where is he? I can't see any chakra strings leading to the puppet." Chuckling a bit Chiyo points at the puppet notices that Kakashi immediately understands as his eyes widen. "He's within the puppet. I'm sure you all know the great weakness of Puppet Techniques is a enemy getting around the puppets and attacking you directly. Hiruko solves that quite elegantly don't you see?"

Opening her hand as if to encompass all of the puppet her face shows just a small emotion at the sight. "This puppet serves as both weapon and shield for Sasori. And if I remember right you based it off one of the enemy's you killed right Sasori-kun?" Tail whipping back and forth Sasori's anger seems to radiate out of his puppet. "I see you've gone senile with age Chiyo-baasama." Chuckling the former kunoichi seems amused by his insults before Kakashi and Sasuke rush forward.

Dodging the serrated tail and senbon launching from both his mouth and right arm the two leap over the puppet leaving explosive tags on it. Triggering the paper bombs the two leap away as pieces of the tail and right arm fly across the cave. Leaping high above as the smoke clears Sakura grins as her right fist darkens as a small seal on her glove briefly lights up.

Dive bombing the puppet as the smoke clearly Sakura is surprised to see it's mostly intact before her fist shatters the back guard. As the cave floor below the puppet begins to fragment under her enhanced strength the puppet begins to burst like a overly ripe fruit. From the puppet a shadowy figure leaps out and further into the cave away from Team 7. "After twenty years, what say we face each other?"

Miles away Deidara dodges successive diving strikes by Fū, golden chains from Naruto, and long range jutsu from Hinata, Anko, and Shino the nuke-nin can barely strike back. "What the hell!? How are these brats so skilled!?" Weaving through the sky Deidara curses as yet another barrage of his flying bombs are stopped by the same golden barrier as before. "I need to get through that thing…That damn Uzumaki brat can create it near instantly.."

Dodging yet another series of attack Deidara releases a small volley of four winged bird bombs in response forcing Fū to dive into the trees. As he watches Naruto unleash yet another fūton jutsu and swings wide Deidara's eye widens as he sees the cave shake and more dust pour out. "What the hell is happening there?" Within the cave Sakura smirks as the shattered remains of Hiruko cover much of the cave floor. From
beneath the figures cloak a hand seems to twitch causing the head of the broken puppet to jerk around before it flies into the air.

With it's broken neck joint aimed towards the ground the head fires off one last volley of senbon. Staring in shock Sakura suddenly moves as Chiyo pulls her hands back causing Sakura to move in tune with her finger's twitches. "As I thought. Just what I'd expect from you Baasama.", rising the figure seems to move with a grave that's almost unnatural, "No wonder this little girl was able to dodge my hidden weapons." Smiling slightly as the chakra threads connecting her to Sakura finally become visible Chiyo seems unsurprised he discovered their trick.

"After all when the one who knows all my tricks directs her how could she not dodge my strikes." As Sasori says this he turns towards them allowing the black robe covering his face and body to fall. Gasping in shock Chiyo will reflexively take a step forward as Sasori's face becomes visible. With short red hair the former Suna puppet master will appear to be far younger than he should be. "B..But how..?"

With a smug look the young looking Sasori will stare down his grandmother. "I perfected my art that's how Chiyo-baasama. Will your body has fallen to age mine is eternal." Still in shock Chiyo can only think back to her memories of the inquisitive boy she once taught the basics of puppetry. Shaking off their shock Kakashi and Sasuke charge forwards seeking to eliminate their foe but are forced to leap back as volleys of senbon nearly shred them.

Looking up above Sasori they see a few pieces of his shattered puppet sitting right above him. "For destroying my Hiruko I will add the four of you to my collection. Once I've killed you I will clean your bodies, drain your blood, and replace your disgusting organs with eternal machines. But first I will use my favorite puppet to end this quickly. I am sure you will recognize him afterall he was quite difficult to kill and add to my collection."

Holding a scroll before him Sasori allows it to slowly open revealing a intricate sealong matrix before it's released with a massive burst of smoke. "Impossible!" Staring in shock Chiyo's paled face immediately lets the others know something very wrong has happened. "What is it!? Who is that?" As the smoke clears a tall black haired puppet lays across Sasori's back. "That's the Sandaime Kazekage.."

Laughing madly as Chiyo and the others stare in shock Sasori's fingers twitch causing the puppet to move before him. "Tell me are you feeling nostalgic, Chiyo-baa?" As the mad puppeteer stares down Team 7 and Chiyo they all hear the explosions outside getting further and further away. "So do you think you and these Leaf brats can beat me and the Sandaime?"

Narrowing her eyes Chiyo glancss at each of the Konoha nin before a sad smile spreads across her face. "I have too many regrets to die here Sasori-kun. So I'm afraid you must die today. For betraying your people and attacking three Kazekage I will ensure you die this day." Laughing again Sasori seems almost excited for the fight as black sand begins to pour out of the Sandaime's sleeves. "I will need to kill them quickly to help that fool capture the jinchuriki and finish the extraction.."

*-A-Kiba is how I refer to Akamaru when he's transformed to look like Kiba
*-Swaying World a jutsu developed by Sakura with Kurenai's help low C-rank
*-Endless Cherry Blossoms another genjutsu created by Sakura it's unique in that the user can continually cast it on their target in effect layering it making it harder to break the jutsu even with dōjutsu mid A-rank due to chakra cost & complexity
*-weighted seals act similar to physical weights except they get "heavier" as your bodt grows accustomed to them up to a certain point
*-chakra restriction seals make the shinobi be more skilles with their jutsu & chakra control by making them learn to work against them to use jutsu or walk on water typically deactivated every few days so the user can gauge their improvement & get used to them being off
*-in canon it's called Net Shaped Prison I think this sounds better TBH
*-standard Kaiten just with water coating the chakra this not only provides greater defense, especially against fire techniques, but also offense as the water forms razor sharp blades A-rank
*-weak version of Great Breakthrough useful for clearing smoke & dust without risking sending debris flying

*For those wondering why Zetsu "fell" so easily it's because he was holding back & delaying them. He'll obviously return later on and next maybe he won't hold back so much. Again sorry for the delay but hopefully I'll be able to finish the next chaoter quickly with the newish fights I've planned out.