Disclaimer: I don't own naruto or any of its characters as they are the property of Masashi Kishimoto.
The author of the cover image is indy-riquez from DeviantArt. You can check the link for the original image in my profile.

Chapter 15: New Teammates

-Hokage Tower-

Tsunade was currently in her chair trying to relax. Ever since she sent Team Seven to Suna, she had been feeling pretty anxious as she had sent Naruto up against the very same organization that wanted to capture him. Add to that the meeting she would have with Ohnoki in just a few days, it was understandable that she was a ball of nerves right now.

She sighed as she took off her sandals and put her feet on top of her desk. She was taking a break from the paperwork at the moment and she would rather not let the few times she had to rest go to waste. Intending to enjoy herself, she opened her drawer and pulled a couple of scratch-off lottery tickets she had bought that morning. She never won anything, but she was so used to gambling that nowadays she just did it to pass the time. She then scratched on one the tickets, and much to her surprise, she realized that she had won the big prize. She widened her eyes at that. She wasn't known as the legendary sucker for anything; she losing gambles was just the normal status quo and whenever that wasn't the case, it was usually a bad omen for things to come. She tried to not panic just yet, and went ahead and started scratching the second ticket, and in horror, she realized that she won again!

Now she was sure that something was wrong. She would never have this kind of luck unless something terrible was going to happen. And as she had been feeling terribly nervous about the recent mission of Team Seven, she couldn't help but worry even more. She took down her feet from her desk to sit straight and put her elbows on the wooden surface as she rested her head on top of her hands, deep in thought. After pondering on her worries for a few minutes, she reached the conclusion that the risk of something bad happening in the mission was too great, and without thinking her decision any further she called for her apprentice. ''Shizune!''

The raven-haired medic entered the office just a few seconds after, and looked attentively at her master, wondering what had the Hokage so riled up so soon in the day. ''Is something the matter, Tsunade-Sama?'' Asked the confused woman.

''I need you to fetch me Team Gai as fast as you can, along with someone else.'' Informed the blonde beauty with severity.

''Y-Yes, right away, Tsunade-Sama!'' Responded Shizune without missing a beat. Even if she didn't know right now why the Hokage wanted Gai and his team for, she was sure that she had to have a good reason. ''And who is the other person you want me to get?'' Asked the short-haired woman.

Tsunade sighed once more, hoping that this was the right choice to make...

-Kurotsuchi's apartment-

Kurotsuchi was just finishing her breakfast, which consisted of a bowl of cereal and an apple. She had gone earlier in the morning to Naruto's apartment to get some food, and she was glad that the blond really did a good job of supplying her with a good amount of food while he was away. She really found the boy's cupboard filled to the brim with all kinds of things to eat, so she felt a bit silly grabbing such a basic meal but whatever, it wasn't like it mattered.

She was just starting to put away the dirty dishes when she heard someone knocking on her door. She went on full alert at that, since Naruto wasn't in the village, she couldn't think of anyone that would come visit her just because they felt like it. She approached her door warily as she tried to think of any reason someone might want to see her right now. Once in front of it, she kept her guard up as she opened the door, and she gave a small jump of surprise when she came face to face with a white porcelain mask at the other side. ''Ahhh you scared me! Why do you have to stand so close to the door?!'' Berated the tomboy at the ANBU. Now that she had a better view of her visitor, she realized that it was the same female purple-haired ANBU that was usually guarding her. And for a moment, she wondered if she had done something wrong lately to deserve a reprimand.

''The Hokage wants to see you, so go and get dressed into something more appropriate.'' Said the purple haired woman as she noted that Kurotsuchi was still in her new pajamas.

Kurotsuchi felt a chill go up her spine. ''The Hokage!? What for?! I haven't done anything wrong, haven't I?'' Said the girl in alarm. She couldn't imagine the Hokage wanting to see her for anything good.

''It's not my place to tell you. You will be informed once we get there, so please just comply.'' Said the ANBU calmly and to the point.

Kurotsuchi stared nervously at the woman and nodded before she rushed to her bedroom to put her usual clothes on. The Iwa girl didn't take long to get ready, and without wasting another second, both the girl and her ANBU escort were off.

-Hokage Tower-

In just a few minutes they were at the Hokage Tower, and as Kurotsuchi faced the office door of Konoha's ruler, her nerves multiplied tenfold. But a nudge on her side by the ANBU behind her prompted her to go on, and she reluctantly gave a solid knock. The pink-eyed girl didn't have to wait long -just a couple of seconds- for the Hokage to reply with 'Enter' So she did just that.

''You wanted to see me, Lady Hokage?'' Asked the prodigy as she entered the office with the ANBU close behind her. She turned to look at the blonde woman and she could see Tsunade staring at her with a serious face as she sat on her desk.

''I did. Come closer, girl.'' Ordered the Sannin as she noticed that Kurotsuchi just stood in the middle of the room.

Kurotsuchi nodded at the Kage and took a few more steps towards the woman until she was just in front of the Hokage's desk. She had never been this close to the Sannin and she couldn't help but be on edge. She guessed that whatever the Hokage wanted from her, the woman either needed to gauge the girl's reaction, or intimidate her with her presence, or both. And she couldn't deny that it was working, she really was intimidating all right.

''You said before that you knew one of the Akatsuki members. A guy named Deidara, correct?'' Asked the blonde as she continued to stare right into the eyes of Kurotsuchi.

''Y-Yes ma'am. '' Answered the girl quickly. She didn't know why the Hokage might be interested in that, but she didn't care right now. She was more focused on finding out what the woman's deal with her was.

''So, you could say that you know his style of fighting?'' The busty woman continued to inquire.

Kurotsuchi blinked slowly with confusion. ''I do know a good deal, yes.''

''Elaborate on it'' Tsunade kept pressing the Iwa Kunoichi.

Kurotsuchi wondered what the Hokage was getting at. The woman had already refused her help before when she offered to aid Naruto on his mission. So she found strange that suddenly the Hokage was interested in what she had to say about the mad bomber. ''With all due respect Hokage-Sama, I don't know where we are going with this.'' Said Kurotsuchi as serenely as she could.

''Just answer what I asked of you.'' Ordered Tsunade with her same grave expression.

Kurotsuchi nodded hastily, deciding that it was best to just do what the Hokage demanded of her. ''He uses explosive clay that he makes into several kinds of sculptures with the mouths on his hands. Depending on the shape he gives them, they can behave exactly like the object he models them after; a bird sculpture can fly, a snake one will slither around on the floor, spiders will stick to surfaces, all of that. One thing they all they all share, though, is that they all explode like bombs. He likes to fight on top of giant flying sculptures he also creates, they can range from dragons to birds, but the point is that he favors aerial and long range combat.'' Informed the Iwa Kunoichi.

''Anything specific to be wary of him?'' Asked the Hokage with the same seriousness.

Kurotsuchi nodded and continued her report. ''He likes to fight sneakily. He will usually telegraph a lot of his head on attacks while another set of sculptures sneak up on his enemy while they are busy dealing with the other ones. Also, one has to be very careful when looking for an opening when fighting him, since he is known to use clay clones as decoys and blow them up along with his foes when they go after him hoping to end the battle quickly.''

Tsunade put her elbows on her desk as she rested her head on top of her hands and thought on the information the girl was giving her. ''Do you know any of his weaknesses?'' Asked the Hokage.

''A few of them. First of all, the quantity of clay he can carry is limited, and once he runs out of it, he is at a considerable disadvantage. But despite that, it's very difficult to actually get him to spend all of it since he carries more than enough to blow up cities. However, one major weakness he has is lightning, any contact with lightning Jutsu will make his clay worthless since lightning Chakra will neutralize the earth Chakra they are powered with.'' Finished the girl before she stared at Tsunade expectantly.

The blonde woman hadn't moved from her position as she digested the words of the girl, and she even closed her eyes as she went deep in thought and seemed to be debating something in her mind.

Kurotsuchi was starting to sweat; the suspense was killing her. Not only she didn't know what the Hokage wanted from all this, but the woman wouldn't say anything anymore.

Then, Tsunade opened her eyes with resolve on her face and Kurotsuchi was momentarily startled by the sudden action. ''I have reconsidered.'' Said Tsunade

''Reconsidered?'' Repeated the confused tomboy with a tilt of her head.

The Hokage nodded in affirmation as she stared at the girl. ''I have reconsidered sending you to Suna as a support for Team Seven.'' Said Tsunade.

Kurotsuchi's eyes went wide at hearing that. Now this was one thing she didn't expect to happen when she came here. ''Wait, are you serious!?'' Asked the girl in disbelief.

''I am. Unless you don't want to go anymore, that is.'' Replied the Hokage, still keeping her severe behavior.

''Of course, I still want to go! But I'm just curious, what made you change your mind?'' Said the pink eyed girl, perplexed.

''I have my reasons'' Responded the Hokage plainly. The truth was that after her bad omen, she started reevaluating the risks the mission brought, and decided that sending Team Seven alone had been a mistake. Even more so when she had someone knowledgeable about of one of the Akatsuki members they were up against. Yes, she was taking a risk sending the girl, but she would rather risk the girl than risk Naruto falling into the hands of the Akatsuki.

'' I thank you for this chance, Hokage-Sama.'' Said the girl with politeness and a small smirk of gratitude.

''No need to thank me. I'm not doing this for you.'' Said Tsunade as she waved off the girl's compliment.

''I know.'' Assured the girl but she still kept the smile on her face.

Tsunade gave a sigh, hoping that this was the right choice, but there was no use worrying about it now. ''Of course, I can't send you alone and unsupervised. I'll have you accompany a team consisting of two Chunin and two Jounin.'' The underlying message was clear: If Kurotsuchi were to try anything, she was in for a rough time. Having to face two Chunins would be challenging enough, but having the support of two full-fledged Jounin would make any attempts she might make very difficult. And not to mention, that they were going to the Land of Wind. If she were to somehow escape, there wasn't a lot of places to run off to since it was mostly dessert, she would be tracked down easily without any obstacles to throw off any pursuers. ''And I'll take one additional measure.'' Informed the blonde as she signaled the purple-haired ANBU in the room that until now had stayed completely silent.

Said ANBU nodded before proceeding to walk towards them as Kurotsuchi looked at the woman intently. Then, the ANBU stood just beside the tomboy as she faced the Hokage obediently.

''You can take off your mask.'' Commanded the Sannin, which prompted Kurotsuchi to raise an eyebrow.

The purple-haired woman gave a small bow before she straightened herself up once again, and placed her hand on her white cat porcelain mask before she took it off completely, revealing the young woman's face.

This was the first time Kurotsuchi had ever seen the ANBU unmasked, and she could admit that the young woman was very pretty. She had a youthful face with fair skin, brown eyes, and her forehead was covered by uneven bangs of her purple hair, she also used red lipstick.

''Why don't you introduce yourself to the girl, and explain to her your mission while you are at it'' Suggested the Hokage with a smile.

''Of course, Tsunade-Sama.'' Said the woman with another small bow before she turned to look at the Iwa girl. ''My name is Uzuki Yugao. I will be accompanying you in your mission, both to keep an eye on you and watch over you. If you try anything against my fellow leaf Shinobi my blade will be on your throat before you can even blink. Alternatively, I will also ensure that your security is not compromised while we are in the Land of wind.'' Informed Yugao. Since Suna Shinobi, just like Konoha ninja, had a deep hatred for Iwa they had to make sure that the girl was not harmed while she was there. It wasn't likely that they were going to make any attempts on the tomboy's life since she was under Konoha's protection right now and Suna Shinobi would not risk starting an international conflict with their allies and especially right now that their Kazekage was missing.

Kurotsuchi evaluated Yugao from head to toe, trying to make something of the woman. So Yugao was going to be serving a weird role of both overseer and bodyguard? Interesting. She looked competent at the very least so that was good; she didn't have any intention of going around backstabbing the Konoha pricks, so she wasn't bothered to have her guard be a skilled Kunoichi, and in fact, she welcomed it.

''Any objections?'' Asked the purple-haired beauty.

''None at all.'' The pink-eyed girl replied simply before she turned again to face the Hokage. ''You said something about a team that was also coming?'' Inquired the girl, remembering the Sannin mention sending her along with another team.

Tsunade gave her an amused grin which only served to confuse the girl. But before she could say anything, there was a knock on the door that drew everyone's attention. Tsunade smirk got even wider, and while still keeping her smile, she gave permission to enter. ''Come in''

Then, the door burst open and the strangest man Kurotsuchi had ever seen in her life entered the office along with a mini clone of said man, a girl, and someone that Kurotsuchi could only assume was a Hyuga. ''Yosh! I heard that my team was requested! So what can I and my lovely students do for you, Hokage-Sama!?'' Exclaimed the strange man in excitement.

''I can already feel my flames of youth burning stronger! We are ready for anything, right Gai-Sensei!?'' Said the boy doppelganger as his other two team members groaned in exasperation.

Kurotsuchi stared in horror at the duo. She wasn't even paying attention to the rest of the team by this point. Now she knew why the Hokage had given her that sly smirk earlier when she asked about these freaks.

Upon looking at the girl's face, Yugao couldn't help but smile with amusement at her reaction, but that was short lived when she remembered that she had to go with them too. And speaking of which...

''Ahh, I see you are here too, Yugao-San. What a surprise.'' Said the friendly Gai upon seeing his old acquaintance.

''Is nice seeing you too, Gai-san.'' Responded the purple-haired woman amicably but still feeling a bit tense. Even if she liked Gai and had a lot of respect for his abilities as a Shinobi, she still found tiresome to deal with the Taijutsu specialist's energetic and unique personality.

''First things first, Gai I want you to meet Kurotsuchi. I'm sure you must have heard of her already.'' Said Tsunade with seriousness.

Gai and the rest of his team put on puzzled faces as they finally directed their looks to the pink-eyed girl.

Kurotsuchi wasn't enjoying being the center of attention of these weirdos, but there was no helping it since if they were going to be traveling together so she might as well get used to it.

Gai's usually cheerful and energetic expression was stoic as he regarded the Iwa Kunoichi. ''So this is the prisoner I have been hearing so much about lately'' Thought the Taijutsu specialist as this was his first time meeting the girl. She did look competent despite being young; the way she carried herself showed that she was experienced for her age, and on top of that, he heard she was a Jounin too.

Meanwhile, the rest of Team Gai were having different reactions. Lee was confused, as he had never seen the girl around before and for some reason her presence seemed to be making a tense atmosphere.

Tenten was unsure of what to make of the girl. She heard that an enemy Kunoichi was in custody in the village and judging by her uniform this person had to be it. But even if she was an enemy, the girl didn't look much different from your average person (save for the pink eyes). When Tenten imagined an enemy that was dangerous enough to keep confined, she pictured an imposing and mean looking Shinobi, but this girl seemed normal enough if a bit rough.

However, Neji wasn't even attempting to hide his distrust and dislike for the girl if the glare he was sending her way was anything to go by.

Rock Lee couldn't understand why everyone seemed so apprehensive about the unfamiliar girl, so he approached his two teammates and asked in a low whisper. ''Guys, why is everyone so tense all of a sudden?''

''Haven't you heard? Supposedly there is an enemy Kunoichi in the village, and if I had to guess she must be the prisoner, just look at her headband.'' Said Tenten, also keeping her voice down as she leaned in to better talk to Rock Lee. ''And not only that, but I think she is supposed to be someone important in her village or something.'' Added the weapons user.

''It has been a hot topic among the Jounin too, actually.'' Informed Neji, joining in their conversation but also whispering just like them. ''Honestly, I'm not too surprised you haven't heard since all you do is train all the time.'' Neji scolded Lee, but he still kept his eyes on the Iwa girl at all times.

As his students continued to discuss among themselves, Gai continued to evaluate the pink-eyed girl with seriousness. But after a solid minute of keeping a stony face, he decided that there was no point in doing this anymore, since if the Hokage was introducing her to his team, there had to be a good reason for having the girl present. ''Nice meeting you, young Kurotsuchi! I'm Maito Gai, the beautiful green beast of Konoha and this is my team!'' Said Gai cheerfully as he broke one of his usual gleaming smiles along with his classic nice guy pose with a thumbs up.

Kurotsuchi could only stare at the man in disbelief. This was Konoha's famous Green beast!? This weirdo was Maito Gai?! The man was supposed to be strong enough to rival Kakashi and this guy wasn't what the tomboy had in mind. Sure, he wasn't as well known as the copy ninja, but in Iwa they tried to keep tabs on every powerful Konoha Shinobi, and as far as strength went he ranked pretty high. Kurotsuchi didn't know how to react to the man's eccentric attitude, so she just nodded dumbly with an unsure look. ''L-likewise. I guess'' Little by little, Kurotsuchi was starting to be convinced that every strong Konoha ninja had to be wrong in the head in some way, it just seemed that it was a rule around here.

''It is my pleasure!'' Said Gai loudly to the girl before turning to Tsunade. ''And what would be the reason for this friendly reunion if I may ask, Hokage-Sama?'' Asked the man good-naturedly.

The blonde woman cleared her throat before she started speaking. ''I have called you all here because I have a mission for you. As you have probably heard by now, the Kazekage has been kidnapped by the Akatsuki.'' That reminder got everyone to get serious once again and they all nodded. ''I have already dispatched Kakashi and his team to deal with this issue, but I feel that they may need backup. So I'm sending you as their reinforcements.'' Explained the Hokage with authority.

While Gai and Tenten nodded in understanding, Neji gave a step forward. ''Excuse me if a sound rude, Hokage-Sama, but why is the Iwa girl here? Surely you aren't intending in sending her with us?'' Inquired the Hyuga prodigy as said Kunoichi glared at him for undermining her.

''As a matter of fact Hyuga, I am. I was just getting to that until you interrupted me.'' Said Tsunade with a frown directed to the boy.

Neji winced at being on the receiving end of a scolding from the Sannin so he just decided to drop the issue and kept quiet.

''Though, Hokage-Sama, even if Neji can be blunt, I too wonder on the purpose of her coming along. Nothing against her is just an unusual decision.'' Added Gai quickly once he noticed the annoyed look on the tomboy's face.

''It just so happens that the Akatsuki member that kidnapped the Kazekage is a former Iwa Shinobi and Kurotsuchi is familiar with him. Her knowledge on the missing-nin fighting style will be a huge boon in your mission.'' Explained the Sannin. ''And if you are worried about having to keep an eye on her, that is why Yugao is here; she will be watching the girl at all times and will serve as additional manpower should the need arise. You are to leave immediately and I'm sure this goes without saying, but this is considered an S-rank mission.'' Finished the Hokage.

Team Gai wasn't feeling particularly confident about working with an enemy. Who knew what the girl could try to pull if they were busy performing such a dangerous mission and were distracted to properly watch over her? Even the usually good-natured and naive Lee was feeling some reservation at the prospect.

''Understood, Hokage-Sama! Just leave everything to us!'' Said Gai with a thumbs up before he turned to his team and his two other temporarily companions. ''Let's go, everyone, there is no time to lose! Let your flames of youth shine through!'' Exclaimed the man with a passion.

''Of course, Gai-sensei! I won't let you or the team down!'' Said Lee as he too joined his idol in his enthusiasm.

Kurotsuchi saw both the girl and the Hyuga sigh and groan respectively, and she couldn't blame them for it if this is what they had to endure every day. And seeing the preoccupied look on Yugao's face, it pretty much confirmed that this trip was going to feel like an eternity.

-Outskirts in the Land of Fire-

Kurotsuchi, Yugao, and Team Gai had been traveling for almost a day jumping from tree to tree with haste. And for the Iwa girl, the travel had been surprisingly quiet, considering that Gai was the leader of the mission. She guessed that despite the man's quirks, he still could keep himself serious when the situation called for it, and she was glad for that. However, there was something that had been bothering her for a while now, which was that the girl of team Gai had been staring at her for most of the trip. Even if the girl tried to hide it, Kurotsuchi could tell that she was being watched by her, and she finally had enough of that.

''Okay that's it, I know you have been staring at me this whole time.'' Said Kurotsuchi accusingly, which made Tenten blush faintly at being caught, and even Lee and Neji directed their attention at the interaction between the girls as they jumped from branch to branch. ''If you have a problem with me or something, just spit it out already.'' Said the tomboy with a harsh look.

''Is not that at all.'' Said Tenten still feeling a bit ashamed. ''I was just looking at your sword and I was wondering where you got it'' Asked the weapons user as she pointed at the blade in Kurotsuchi's waist.

Kurotsuchi raised an eyebrow at the question. ''Is that what she was curious about?'' Thought the pink-eyed Kunoichi in confusion. ''It was my mother's sword, and I don't see how is this your business.'' Said the Iwa girl brusquely.

''You sure about that? Because I'm pretty sure that your sword is the same one I fixed for Naruto the other day.'' Responded Tenten with incredulity, and now is was her who was looking at Kurotsuchi judgmentally.

''Oh, are you saying I stole it? Is that it?!'' Said the tomboy with indignation at Tenten's claims. ''I'll have you know that the idiot got it fixed for me, so you can take your accusations somewhere else!'' The nerve of the girl to be saying that her mother's heirloom wasn't really hers, it really made Kurotsuchi angry.

Tenten widened her eyes in surprise. ''Wait, so you know Naruto?'' she remembered Naruto mention that he was repairing the sword for a friend, but never in a million years did Tenten imagine that his friend was going to be an Iwa Kunoichi who was also Konoha's prisoner on top of it. Even Lee and Neji seemed taken aback from the revelation.

Kurotsuchi nodded. ''Yes, I know him. You could even say we are f-friends.'' Said the girl, a bit reluctant. She was still getting used to the idea of being friends with the blond, so it was still weird to say it out loud, especially to complete strangers.

Rock Lee's face lit up at hearing the girl. ''Then, I'm sorry for not introducing myself properly before. If you are a friend of Naruto-Kun is only appropriate to be polite. I'm Rock Lee, please forgive my rudeness.'' Said the Taijutsu user. He had been feeling strange and reserved at having to work alongside a supposed enemy, but if she was on good terms with Naruto then she couldn't be so bad.

''Sure...I'm Kurotsuchi, though you already knew that.'' Said the tomboy dully. Even if she was Naruto's friend, she still thought that the weird boy was just too trusting. She supposed it was also part of his weirdness.

''And I'm Tenten.'' Said the weapons user, since Lee was already introducing himself she might as well also do it, if only out of obligation.

Then, Lee turned to his other team member. ''Why don't you introduce yourself too, Neji?'' Suggested the spandex wearing ninja expectantly.

Neji eyed the Iwa Kunoichi coldly, and for a moment, he considered not giving an answer to make it even more obvious that he didn't like her and had no interest in interacting with her whatsoever. But he also didn't want to make a scene over, this so he decided to go along with it. ''Hmph...Hyuga Neji.'' Said the Byakugan user plainly. He had learned a long time ago that you could not trust foreign ninja. Kumo's machinations, a supposedly neutral nation, were responsible for the death of his father and almost getting Hinata kidnapped. So if you couldn't even drop your guard around neutral ninja, he sure as hell wasn't going to do it with a Kunoichi from an openly hostile village.

Neji's explicit cold behavior towards Kurotsuchi once again made the atmosphere heavy and everyone got silent.

Kurotsuchi was already getting fed up with all this; almost all her interactions with Naruto's friends ended the same way: With them hating her or disliking her. Even if she would not even consider getting along with Konoha assholes if she was given the chance, the fact was that she did not have that luxury right now, and always having everyone give her the cold shoulder was starting to get on her nerves. Besides, she was on a mission with them right now, so it was for everyone's benefit that they tried to get along.

And with all that in mind, Kurotsuchi tried to salvage what she could of the conversation. ''Hey. Tenten, correct?'' Asked the tomboy to the weapons user.

The female member of Team Gai looked at Kurotsuchi with a quizzical look. ''Yes?''

''You said that you fixed my blade?'' Asked the pink-eyed girl as Tenten had mentioned something along those lines before.

Tenten nodded. ''I did.''

''I wanted to commend you on your work, the sword is as good as new.'' Said Kurotsuchi with a small appreciating grin. ''You have talent.''

Tenten blushed with modesty. She did not expect a compliment from the brash girl and her character didn't seem like the type to do that sort of stuff either, so it came as a surprise. ''Thanks, I'm glad you like it. Naruto didn't tell me who it was for, so I was worried that whoever it was, didn't appreciate how much work I put on it.'' Said Tenten with a small smile of her own.

''Tenten is an expert when it comes to weapons. If you think she is good at fixing them, wait until you see her using them.'' Added Lee cheerfully, happy that the mood had brightened again.

''Is that so?'' Asked Kurotsuchi curiously.

''Well, I don't like to brag but I do spend a lot of time practicing with a wide array of weapons, so I do know more than a few things.'' Said Tenten with a proud smile.

As the teenagers talked, Yugao was glad that at least she apparently wasn't going to have to worry about them being at each other's throats, so that was something at least.

Just as Yugao, Gai took a moment to glance back and watch his students converse with the Iwa girl, and he couldn't help but smile warmly at the interaction. He knew that she was an enemy Kunoichi and all, but he was willing to give her a chance as long as she behaved. After all, the flames of youth didn't care for nationality.

''Gai, wait!''

Gai and the rest of his companions halted at the sudden noise, and to their surprise, a small pug dog with brown fur and dark snout and ears, wearing a blue vest and a Konoha headband appeared before them.

''Pakkun? What are you doing here? Did Kakashi send you?'' Asked Gai at the small animal.

''That's right.'' Said the dog with his seemingly always bored face. ''And I see you have a couple of guests with you.'' Said Pakkun as he glanced at Kurotsuchi and Yugao.

The tomboy was a bit dumbfounded by the talking dog. Yes, she knew that it was most likely a summon and there were a lot of them that could talk, but this was her first time seeing one of them. Yugao on her part didn't seem fazed in the least as she had already worked with Kakashi's dogs a couple of times when the copy ninja used to work in ANBU.

''Yo.'' Greeted the dog as he regarded both women and lifted a paw in a salute.

''Hi.'' Said Kurotsuchi dumbly as she waved unsurely at the animal.

''Nice to see you, Pakkun.'' Said Yugao in a friendly manner.

''It's been a while since I last saw you, Yugao. glad to see you again safe and sound considering your job.'' Said the dog politely.

''I can say the same to you.'' Replied the purple haired beauty.

''So, what did you come here for?'' Urged Neji as he interrupted the conversation and reminded the summon of the task at hand.

''Sorry, I'm getting sidetracked.''The dog apologized once he realized his blunder, and now everyone waited attentively for what the animal had to say. ''I came here to inform you all that the Akatsuki that kidnapped the Kazekage have fled to the Land of Rivers. And of the two teams, yours is the closest to them.''

''The Land of Rivers?'' Repeated Gai. ''We are close indeed, almost at the border with them in fact. And the Land of Rivers is small, it doesn't even take a day to traverse it.'' Informed Gai to everyone present.

''Also I'll be helping you track them down, I already got their scent.'' Added Pakkun.

''Then there is no time to lose. Let's go, everyone!'' Ordered Gai before he resumed his pace, even faster than before. The rest of the squad didn't waste any time either and quickly followed suit towards their destination.

-Land of Rivers-

In just a few hours, Gai and his group were already deep into the Land of Rivers territory, but now they had resorted to traveling on the ground since the region didn't have big forests like the Land of Fire, and instead, the land was a rocky terrain that had the occasional river flowing through it which was appropriate considering it was the Land of Rivers. Pakkun was currently in the lead of the formation as he followed the trail of the Akatsuki members.

''How much longer until we reach their hideout? I don't want to sound whiny but I'm starting to get tired already.'' Said a weary Tenten. They had barely rested since they started their mission and she wasn't as fit as the rest of her team, especially Gai and Lee.

Kurotsuchi refrained from voicing her complains but she felt the same as the weapons user. Ever since she became Konoha's prisoner she hadn't been training as she should and was already starting to get out of shape.

''Judging by the strength of the scent, we are close. It shouldn't take us more than a couple of hours.'' Reassured the pug, but after a few seconds, his expression became severe as he started sniffing the air. ''Someone is approaching us, and fast!''

Everyone got startled at the dog's warning and Neji didn't waste any time to activate his Byakugan. ''Behind us!'' Yelled the Hyuga just in time as everyone scattered to avoid a mighty blow that had been aimed at their group.

Everyone stood a safe distance from whatever it had been that almost mauled them, and when the dust cleared off they could see the familiar figure of Kisame holding a dusty Samehada.

''Some good reflexes you have there.'' Said the blue skinned man with a snarky smile. ''I hope that you make for an interesting fight, you bizarre beast.'' Added the swordsman as he regarded Gai.

''This guy again?!'' Muttered Kurotsuchi with a bit of fear. The last time she fought the man he made her look like an amateur, and she just got out of that fight with her neck still attached to her thanks to Akatsuchi and her father's interference.

Kisame looked at the girl and his face lit up in realization at who she was. ''So we meet again, girlie. I wonder if you learned your lesson from last time, but I guess we are about to find out won't we?'' Said Kisame in a mocking tone.

''You know this person?'' A puzzled Gai asked Kurotsuchi.

''You know me too, dumbass.'' Thought the shark-like man with a deadpan look.

''I faced him once before.'' Said Kurotsuchi simply. She would rather not elaborate on the full circumstances of the fight since she had been trying to capture Naruto a the time.

Meanwhile, Neji was taking advantage of their small talk and took a moment to analyze the Akatsuki member with his Byakugan, which made the veins around his eyes bulge, and as he did, he let a small gasp of surprise.

''Neji, what's wrong?'' Asked Tenten with concern. It wasn't often that the stoic Hyuga showed any signs of being startled.

''That guy's Chakra is unreal. I haven't seen this much since Naruto.'' Said the branch member in disbelief.

''To send someone like him then it must mean that we are still on time, right?'' Said Lee as he got into a fighting stance. One if their worries was that they didn't know if they could make it in time to save Gaara, but Kisame's presence pretty much confirmed that they still had a chance or the Akatsuki wouldn't even have bothered in sending him to deal with them.

''Probably he is just here to stall us. Our numbers advantage would make a fight unfavorable even for someone like him.'' Added Kurotsuchi. She knew that it wouldn't make sense for the Akatsuki to risk losing one of their members in a fight to the death and even less so when it wasn't even in a fight against a Jinchuuriki, their main targets.

Yugao agreed with the girl, this was most likely a measure by the Akatsuki to get a bit more time as they secured the Kazekage's Biju. And if her guess was correct, their plan was going to succeed if they didn't do something to not play along with them. Time was of the essence and they couldn't risk losing their advantage when the price to pay was the Kazekage's life.

''Gai'' Called the ANBU in a low voice so only their group could hear her, and once the Taijutsu user directed his attention to her, she continued. ''I'm sorry for even suggesting this, but do you think you could hold him by yourself?''

Her suggestion alarmed everyone. To let one of them fight an Akatsuki member by themselves seemed like something akin to suicide.

Yugao Saw that Gai's students were ready to argue back, so she rushed to interrupt them lest they reveal their strategy to their enemy in their outburst. ''Please keep your voice down even if you disagree with me, but just hear me out. We don't know how much time the Kazekage has left, but one thing we do know is that right now we are still a threat to the Akatsuki's plans and they know this, and I doubt they would have sent this guy without thinking it through. I do believe that he is capable of holding us off long enough for us to fail. The only option I can see is if we rush past him, but he won't leave us alone unless someone keeps him busy.'' Explained the purple haired beauty. As an ANBU, she was used to choosing the most logical course of action even if it was dangerous. As Shinobi, they had to be ready to risk their lives for the mission.

''I hate to say it kids, but I think that Yugao is right. Ensuring the Kazekage's life should be our priority above all else.'' Said Pakkun with remorse.

''No way I'm leaving Gai-sensei behind!'' Said an exalted Lee, but thankfully, he was being mindful of the volume of his voice just as Yugao had asked.

''Lee is right, I'm sure that if we all work together we can deal with this freak in no time at all that he will barely slow us down!'' Said Tenten also in a whisper.

Neji stayed silent as he debated their dilemma. He knew that what Yugao proposed was the most logical step to take as Shinobi, but that didn't mean he liked it. But still, he couldn't bring himself to voice his opinion as he was uncertain about the appropriate decision to make.

Gai was deep in thought as he pondered on Yugao's suggestion. It was true that it seemed like the best thing to do for the success of the mission. Frankly, he had never been the best to make hard calls like these, that was one of the reasons that he had never been fit to join ANBU like Kakashi and Yugao had even when he had wanted to try his hand at the job. And after much thinking, he smiled now that he had made up his mind. He was glad that Yugao had come with them to have more insight on this kind of matters.

''You guys go on ahead, I can deal with this by my own.'' Said Gai, much to the surprise of his students.

''But, Gai-sensei you can't...'' Lee started to complain only to be silenced as his teacher lifted a hand to stop him in his tracks.

''Don't worry about me. I wouldn't do this if I didn't think I could do it.'' Replied Gai with a reassuring smile and a thumbs up.

''But are you sure this is wise, Sensei?'' Inquired the Hyuga, finally voicing some concern as Tenten nodded in agreement with her teammate.

''I promise I won't take unnecessary risks.'' Added Gai still keeping his smile. Besides, it was the truth. If things got hairy he could always open the Inner Gates, and he was second to none in speed when under its effects, so he was confident that he could retreat it the need presented itself.

Finally, his students calmed down a bit, and begrudgingly, they nodded in understanding.

''Good. Once we split up, Neji and Yugao-San will be in charge of the team while I'm gone.'' Informed Gai before he regarded Kisame once more. ''But first, we have to make a distraction, force him to let us pass. Once he realizes what we are trying to do, he won't make it easy on us. Be ready for my signal.'' Finished Gai as his students, Kurotsuchi, Pakkun, and Yugao got ready to act at a moment's notice.

Kisame was impatiently waiting for their little chat to be over, whatever it may be they were talking about. As he had come here to stall them it suited him just fine if they wanted to delay themselves by discussing some random strategy, he was confident he could take them on despite anything they might come up with. This wasn't his real body anyway, so even if they somehow managed to defeat him there was no real risk for him. But still, he wished they would just have attacked right away instead of letting him bore to death.

Then, the blue skinned man saw that the group was getting ready to act, and he smiled with eagerness to start things up already. ''Took you long enough, I was starting to wonder if you would do all the work for me, but I'm glad you aren't; that would be boring don't you guys think?'' He saw Gai give some kind of order, and all of them, dog included, started rushing at him. He didn't waste a single second more and quickly performed some hand seals. ''Suiton: Bakusui Shoha! (Water Release: Exploding Water Colliding Wave)'' Then, Kisame proceeded to spew a huge quantity of water from his mouth, and in just a few seconds, the wasteland they were on was turned into a small ocean as the swordsman rode the giant wave towards his enemies.

Everyone stopped momentarily to evaluate the strength of the technique, and once they saw the massive wave of water, they had no choice but to jump and attempt to stand over it or be swept away by the current. Kisame took advantage of their vulnerable position in the air and quickly approached Gai with his sword ready to end the Taijutsu master.

''I got you now'' Thought triumphantly the former Kiri ninja. But before he could skewer Gai, Lee was immediately upon him, launching a barrage of kicks.

''Konoha Daisenpu! (Leaf Great Whirlwind)'' Said the Green wearing Chunin as launched three kicks in mid-air, one low, then a middle one and a high one, before finishing with a drop kick.

Unfortunately for Lee, Kisame managed to block all of his attacks with his forearm; however, the strength of the kicks, especially the drop kick, was enough to push him back. Not to mention that Lee's physical blows were strong enough that even blocking them hurt the Kiri ninja.

As soon as Neji fell on the surface of the water and regained his balance, he took the opening that Lee created and used his own Jutsu. ''Hakke Kusho! (Eight Trigrams Vacuum Palm)'' Yelled the Hyuga as he thrust his palm towards the missing-nin, and released a high compressed vacuum-like air that blew Kisame even farther back.

''Pesky brats, they are more resourceful than I thought'' Thought an annoyed Kisame before just barely blocking with Samehada a metal ball aimed at his head, courtesy of the girl with the twin buns, but as soon as he did that, the ball exploded to release several smaller balls made of paper that detonated and enveloped the surrounding area in smoke. Kisame acted quickly and swung his bandage wrapped sword around him with great strength, rapidly dissipating most of the smoke. What he did not expect to see, however, was the entire group save Gai fleeing the scene. It was now that he realized that they weren't planning on sticking around like he expected.

He had thought that they were going to feel confident enough to engage in a fight with him once they saw that they outnumbered him, but that wasn't the case, and being ignored just served to piss him off. ''Where do you think you are going?! Suiton: Suikodan no Jutsu! (Water Release: Water Shark Bullet Technique)'' Yelled the enraged man as he slammed his hand on the water's surface and six large sharks made of liquid, one for each fleeing Shinobi, started giving chase in an effort to stop their advance before they got even farther.

While they sprinted away, Tenten, Neji, Rock Lee, Yugao, and even Pakkun, looked back to see the sharks gaining distance on them.

Kurotsuchi, on her part, was busy doing some preemptive hand seals. ''Yoton: Sekkaigyo no Jutsu! (Lava Release: Quicklime Congealing Technique)'' As soon as any of the sharks so much as dared to surface in an attempt to munch on them, they were smacked in the face by the tomboy's quicklime, and as the sticky substance mixed with their watery bodies, it hardened. And in just a few seconds, all the sharks sank like rocks to the bottom of the makeshift lake. Everyone (save for Neji) gave the Iwa girl a thankful look and she responded with a proud grin.

Kisame clicked his tongue at seeing his sharks promptly handled, and even though all that happened in just a few seconds, the brats were fast enough that they were already well into the distance. He would have to give chase and do it quickly if he hoped to catch up, but as he attempted to go after them, he was forced to block a blow from a nunchaku that Gai was now wielding. ''You are in my way, beast'' Snarled the shark-like man.

''I'm your opponent now, your only concern is me'' Said Gai as he tried to push back the great sword with the chain of his nunchaku.

''Then I'll deal with you quickly and then I'll hunt down those brats of yours like dogs for pissing me off.'' Said the angry blue skinned man.

''You'll have to go through me first, and I won't make it easy on you. So do your worst.'' Said Gai with a harsh look not normally present in the energetic man. Having his precious students threatened made his blood boil.

''You asked for it'' Warned the swordsman as he pulled Samehada from his struggle against Gai's weapon before he swung it again at his enemy, only to be blocked again with surprising strength. And as Gai started counterattacking himself, their vicious fight started once more. Gai hoped that this strategy bought them enough time to succeed, but above all else, he hoped that they would be safe while he dealt with the dangerous missing-nin.

Author's note: Here it is, the next chapter! And as promised this time it didn't take me as long to update like last time, not even close. And actually I had to split this chapter in two since it was getting too long for a single chapter in my opinion; it might not seem like it since now is of average length, but believe me it was going to be long otherwise if I hadn't done this. On the plus side, I hope that it means that I will have the next chapter up soon since I already have a part of it done.

Regarding the chapter itself I hope that you guys liked the interactions in this chapter. I wasn't sure how I was going to handle Kurotsuchi's interaction with Gai and his team and, with Yugao on top of, it was though. But I'm happy with how it went at the very least.

And as always please review if you have the chance! I'll see you guys soon :)