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 16: Reunion

-Land of Rivers-

Kurotsuchi and company, were already well on their way to catch up with Gaara and his captors. But despite that, the remaining Team Gai could only think about the master they were forced to leave behind. They knew that Gai was one of the strongest Shinobi in Konoha, but still, going against an Akatsuki member by himself could be a bit too much for what the man could handle.

Kurotsuchi and Yugao eyed the concerned faces of their companions, and the ANBU tried to keep them focused on the mission. ''I know that you are worried about Gai and it's understandable, but you must remember that in a mission the objective comes first, even when we have to put our life on the line. Gai knows this and so do you. It's always hard, but we have no choice but to leave our feelings aside for now.'' Said the purple haired woman.

''I know that.'' Said Rock Lee with a sigh. ''But still, I can't stop myself from feeling guilty. I left Gai-Sensei behind in a dangerous predicament, it feels as though I ran away.'' Said the boy, berating himself.

''I'm just as worried as you, but Yugao-san is right, Lee.'' Said Neji. He knew that as long as he was in charge of the team he had a responsibility to act as a leader and that included keeping his teammate's head straight. '' Gai-Sensei knew what he was getting himself into and even he knew that it was a necessary action to secure the success of the mission. Besides, Gai-Sensei is not weak, he won't let himself go down even against someone like that.''

''He is always telling us that he believes in our strength. Well, we also have to believe in him.'' Added Tenten despite herself being worried too.

Rock Lee sighed again but he quickly put on a resolute face. ''Thanks, Tenten, Neji. I need to have faith in Gai-sensei and the least I can do is give it my all to see this mission through to honor the risk he is taking.'' Said Lee with determination.

Tenten and Neji smiled at their teammate, glad that he was putting himself together.

Kurotsuchi watched intently the interaction between the team and the bond they shared. Even with all their differences, they were close. She couldn't help but miss her own comrades back in Iwa. She wondered what Akatsuchi, gramps, and her father were up to. But before she could start pondering on the issue too much, her train of thought was interrupted by Pakkun.

''We are almost there so be on your guard. It won't be long now.'' Announced the pug.

The notice put everyone on edge as they started wondering what to expect once they got there. Luckily, they didn't have to wait long, as in just a few minutes, they reached what appeared to be a huge cave in the middle of a lake. The cave had a Torii gate just in front of it, but the entrance was sealed with a giant boulder that had a paper tag seal on it.

Everyone stood in the lake just before the boulder, as they examined the spot.

''Is this the place?'' Asked Kurotsuchi curiously.

Pakkun nodded. ''Yes, the Kazekage is inside.''

''I can indeed feel several Chakra signatures in there. However, some of them are rather bizarre.'' Said Yugao with a frown.

''You can sense them? Yugao-San, are you by any chance a sensor type?'' Inquired Tenten.

''Yes, I am. Sorry for not mentioning it before, it must have slipped my mind.'' Said Yugao as she scratched her cheek sheepishly.

Neji also decided to give some input, so he activated his Byakugan to get a look inside. He could definitely see the Kazekage, but he was currently being suspended in the air by some strange force as huge quantities of Chakra left his body by the second. Also, he could understand why Yugao said that the rest of the Chakra signatures seemed off since only two of the other people inside of it seemed to actually be physically present; the rest of them looked like some kind of holograms, and all of them just stood there motionless as they all performed a single hand seal. It was a strange scene, all in all.

''Neji, what do you see?'' Asked Lee with curiosity.

''I can't find the words to properly describe it, but I can tell you that the Kazekage is definitely there, and so are the Akatsuki members that kidnapped him.'' Said the Hyuga.

''So Deidara is most likely in there with him'' Thought the tomboy darkly with a scowl at the prospect of finally giving the mad bomber what was coming to him.

''Then there is no time to lose. I'll try to open the way.'' Said Lee as he took a stance to punch the big rock. He wasn't sure if he could destroy it in one hit like Gai would have, but he was sure going to try it.

''Wait, you will just end up hurting yourself.'' Warned Yugao to the gree-clad boy.

Rock Lee stopped the blow he had been about to throw, and along with the rest of his companions, he looked at Yugao with a puzzled expression. ''Why do you say that, Yugao-San?'' Asked the Taijutsu user.

''Take a look at that.'' Said the ANBU as she pointed at the paper tag that was on the boulder. ''That is a Five-Seal Barrier. Nothing will be able to destroy the boulder unless we get rid of it first.''

A look of realization hit Lee. ''I see. Amazing, Yugao-San. Not only are you a sensor type, I didn't know you knew about seals too!'' Said Lee in admiration.

''I'm not an expert or anything, but I do know a little bit about them.'' Said the purple-haired woman with a shook of her head and crossed arms.

''So, how do we get rid of it?'' Inquired the Hyuga.

''We have to take those tags at the same time. There have to be five in total. The rest should be somewhere around here; they won't be too far but they won't be too close either. We will have to split up and tear them off simultaneously.'' Explained the woman.

With this new information, Neji activated his Byakugan to look for the remaining tags, and sure enough, it only took him a couple of minutes. ''What Yugao-San says is correct. I found another four of them, but as she says, we will have to split up as they are a considerable distance away from here.'' Said the Hyuga with focus.

''But we have to take them off at the same time, don't we? How are we going to coordinate ourselves to do that if we get so far apart?'' Questioned Tenten.

Everyone started thinking on a way to overcome that particular problem when suddenly, Lee perked up. ''That's right!'' Said the boy before he took off his backpack and started searching inside of it. ''I remembered that I'm carrying some radios with me. They should come in handy.'' Just after saying that, he pulled a few devices with headphones attached to them.

''Well, that solves that problem. But we still have to decide who will stay behind to remove this one. It has to be someone able to deal with the boulder.'' Said Pakkun.

''I can do it. My Doton Jutsu will be more than enough to take care of it.'' Said Kurotsuchi with confidence.

It was now that everyone realized something: This was a risky choice since the security around the girl would be considerable weaker once everyone separated. In light of this, everyone stared worriedly in concern at the Iwa Kunoichi.

Kurotsuchi wondered why everyone was looking at her like that all of a sudden, but it only took her a moment to understand why. She got serious as everyone's gaze was upon her, but she couldn't deny that the thought of bailing out of there once most of them were gone seemed very tempting.

Yugao was also uncertain about this idea but they had no choice but to do it, so it was up to her to convince everyone. ''It's fine, I'll stay with Kurotsuchi. I have faith that she will behave, isn't that right?'' Yugao asked Kurotsuchi with a warning tone in her voice.

Kurotsuchi nodded. ''I promise.'' She said, but they didn't seem to believe it completely. She couldn't blame them, she didn't fully believe herself either.

Lee felt relieved at hearing her say that, but Tenten ,and especially Neji, didn't seem convinced.

''Also, I'm sorry to have to ask this of you Pakkun, but would you mind helping us with one of the tags?'' Added Yugao.

Pakkun raised an eyebrow and was about to ask why they needed him for that but he quickly realized what the problem was: If Kurotsuchi was going to be guarded by Yugao, then that meant that they still needed one more person to go for one of the seals. ''Fine, you can count on me.'' Assured the small dog, and after they helped to awkwardly attach one of the radios to him they were ready to go.

''Neji will be giving you instructions on how to get to the rest of your tags on the way. Also, once you are all in position give a signal so I know when to tear the seal off too.'' Ordered the ANBU.

''I promise I won't fail!'' Said Lee with a thumbs up and a grin.

''I'll do my best.'' Added Tenten.

''I got it.'' Said Pakkun.

Neji on his part just silently nodded.

Kurotsuchi then saw them leave one by one after Neji gave them a general direction of where to go to, but before the Hyuga left, he stopped just beside her.

''I'm warning you, try anything while we are gone and I will hunt you down.'' Threatened the branch member with a harsh look.

''I got it already, just worry about your task, Hyuga.'' Responded Kurotsuchi with a cold gaze of her own.

Neji gave an annoyed grunt and shot her one last glare before he too took off.

''Now all that's left for us is to wait.'' Said Yugao as she leaned on the Torii gate while she kept an eye on Kurotsuchi.

Meanwhile, the pink-eyed girl tried to play it cool, but internally, she was in turmoil. She probably would never get such a perfect chance to make a move to escape. Tsunade's decision to send her on the mission had been so rushed that she didn't have time to take proper precautions, and that was something she could not ignore. They had been expecting to go directly to the Land of Wind, where there weren't any obstacles to throw off anyone that might pursue her; this unexpected detour to the Land of Rivers worked in her favor. In this region, she had a chance to escape and they weren't that far from the border to the Land of Earth, three days at most actually. But if she didn't stop at all she would get home even faster.

Her only real obstacle right now was Yugao. If she could take her down fast she would have a clear shot to make a run for it. But could she do it? The ANBU was keeping a close eye on her so she wasn't likely to catch her off-guard if she attacked her; so she was going to have to hope that her skills surpassed Yugao's and she could defeat her fast before the rest of team Gai could come to her aid. If she was to do it, the best moment to act would be when everyone got into position, that would ensure that they would be as far away from there as the mission allowed them. How convenient for her that they had to signal them when that was the case.

Both women had been waiting for a while and Yugao had nothing to entertain herself other than hearing the radio directions that Neji gave his teammates once in a while. It was tedious for the purple-haired woman since the boy wasn't talking to her, but there was no helping it since she had to be paying attention once he did talk to her.

''Neji, Yugao-San, I'm almost in position.'' Said Lee through the radio.

''Me too.'' Also informed Tenten.

''Yugao-San, you said that we all have to remove these at the same time, correct?'' Asked Lee.

Yugao brought a hand to her ear to activate her own microphone. ''That's right. Ensure that you are ready to take it off in one swoop, so it's imperative that you wait for my signal...

As Yugao continued giving directions to the rest of the team, Kurotsuchi knew that this was it, this was the chance she had been waiting for. Yugao was currently distracted as she explained what they had to do, so the Iwa Kunoichi just had to be quick enough to cut the ANBU down before she even knew what hit her. The tomboy brought her hand to the handle of the sword in her waist before thinking her actions thorough on last time. She would have to kill Yugao swiftly, or at least, severely wound her. Then, she would have to make a fast escape, hoping that the combined efforts of team Gai weren't enough to catch her in time. She knew that she would not be able to cover her tracks, not with both Neji and Pakkun on her trail, so it would be a matter of speed, it would all come down on who got tired first. But she had to risk it, there was no telling if a chance like this would ever present itself again, if she didn't do this she might never see her home again.

She gripped her sword tighter, but before she lunged at Yugao, an image of Naruto's face flashed on her mind. For a moment, she thought of the consequences that this would bring upon the Jinchuuriki, since he had agreed to take responsibility for her that meant that he had to endure the consequences of her actions, and while she doubted that the Hokage would punish him as harshly as she should, Kurotsuchi couldn't be sure. But then, she imagined the blond's disappointed or hateful face towards the Iwa girl when he found out what she did. The thought of losing her friend was extremely disheartening for her. And what if she didn't succeed? She would lose everything: Naruto, her family, her friends, and maybe even her life.

''I won't make it. The odds are too stacked against me.'' Thought the tomboy with finality as she took her hand off her sword, deciding that she would wait for a better chance in the future.

''Kurotsuchi.''

The pink-eyed girl gave a small jump of surprise at Yugao's call. She had been too deep in thought so she was startled once the ANBU addressed her.

The purple-haired woman raised an eyebrow at the girl's weird reaction but she still relayed her order anyway. ''Get yourself into position, we are about to take off the seals.''

Kurotsuchi nodded and proceeded to walk up the boulder as she stuck to its surface with Chakra. Once she got into position with one hand ready to tear the paper off, she looked at Yugao. ''You might want to get out of the way, this thing is gonna be hurled like a projectile.'' Warned the tomboy.

Yugao took the girl's advice and stepped a considerable distance away to the side from the boulder.

''Now, tear them off!'' Ordered Yugao.

Then, immediately Kurotsuchi tore the piece of paper in one swoop and she guessed that they did it right since it came off without a problem. After that, she didn't waste any time and made some hand seals. ''Doton: Kaido Shokutsu! (Earth Release: Opening Earth Rising Excavation)'' then, she put her palm on the wall of the cave, and in an instant, pillars made of stone came from the wall that launched the rock covering the entrance and it did it with such strength that the huge boulder even took the Torii gate with it when it was sent several yards away.

Now that the path was clear, Kurotsuchi and Yugao rushed inside the cave in haste. When they entered, they could see several shadowy figures standing in each finger of a huge statue that had the levitating Kazekage in front of it, and all of the members seemed to be looking directly at them. It only took a moment for the tomboy to recognize the surprised face of Deidara among the figures. Kurotsuchi could already feel her anger starting to increase before once again she started doing some hand seals. ''Suiton: Mizurappa! (Water Release: Water Trumpet)'' She then released a large jet of water from her mouth aimed at the traitorous blond and his hunched comrade with the scorpion tail, since now she was just realizing that the rest of them were just proyections.

Both Akatsuki members were forced to evade the water attack. Sasori dodged to the side while Deidara opted to jump over it.

Yugao saw her chance and made a jump for the Kazekage's body that was still suspended in mid-air. But Deidara saw that, so he quickly made a small clay bird that he hung on to with one hand, and used it to fly towards the Jinchuuriki. Deidara managed to snatch the red head first and then proceeded to give Yugao a swift kick to her ribs which sent her plummeting back into the water below.

Fortunately, Yugao managed to recover her balance on the way down, and landed standing on the surface on the water and Deidara did just the same while he carried Gaara.

Now both parties were in a standoff, and the two Akatsuki members stood side by side across the two Kunoichi while the shadowy figures of the rest of the Akatsuki members watched the exchange.

''If it isn't Kurotsuchi-Chan, long time no see. Last time I saw you, you were still a little snot-nosed brat, un.'' Said Deidara with a mocking tone.

Kurotsuchi sneered with disgust at the former Iwa ninja.''Well, enjoy this reunion since there won't be a next time once I'm done with you, Deidara-nii.'' She purposely said the last honorific with as much venom as she could muster. In the past, she used that particular honorific to refer to him in a fond way, but after everything he had done to her home, she felt nothing but contempt for the man.

''Hey Itachi, Kisame! You guys didn't say anything about an Iwa Kunoichi being in one of the teams you faced!'' Deidara complained to two of his shadowy comrades.

''She wasn't with the team I faced.'' Said the silhouette with the voice of Itachi, and aside from his voice, the only other thing that gave away that he was the Uchiha were his visible Sharingan eyes.

''I didn't think it was important, the only competent one on their team was that dumb beast, and I was quite busy fighting him. Besides, how was I supposed to know that you knew her?'' Said another figure with the voice of Kisame.

Yugao couldn't help but worry about Gai's safety. If Kisame was already back, then that had to mean that his fight with Gai was already over. She could only hope that Gai was the one who disposed of the swordsman swiftly.

''Mmm, it seems that the girl has a knack for getting in the way of our plans. This isn't the first time she hinders us from getting a Jinchuuriki.'' Said another of the holograms. This one had green eyes with a red sclera. Kurotsuchi thought that his voice sounded familiar.

''It looks like the whore didn't learn anything from last time. I think that another session with Jashin-Sama is in order. Don't you think, bitch?'' Said another one of the figures, but this time his voice was one that Kurotsuchi most definitely remembered...

''I remember you! you are that silver-haired sadistic piece shit!'' Said the enraged girl. She would never forget the asshole that almost got her killed back in the Land of Hot Water.

''Even you know her?'' Asked Sasori in wonder. How did the girl even know half of their members and was still alive?

''Hahahaha! If I know her?! She was squealing like a pig in agony when I finished with her! And now here she is, with the gall to act though in front of us.'' Said Hidan with disdain.

Kurotsuchi gritted her teeth in anger, as right now, she was surrounded with pricks that she would like to watch them die a slow death with a smile on her face. ''Laugh while you can. Next time you'll be the one that ends up screaming like a bitch.''

''Ha! Let's see if you don't suck so much by then! Or are you planning on bringing your Jinchuuriki boyfriend along with you? If the Kyuubi hadn't been with you, the battle would have been over in seconds!'' Said the Jashinist with a sneer.

Yugao was stunned and was left without words. The Iwa Kunoichi seemed to have a grudge with many of the Akatsuki members. She wondered if Kurotsuchi should feel proud to have survived those encounters with them and lived to tell the tale, or if she should be scared shitless to have so many S-ranked criminals out for her blood; Probably a bit of both, she supposed. However, this was a good moment to call for reinforcements as they were distracted. So with discretion, she brought a hand to the mic in her ear, and in a whisper she said. ''We got rid of the boulder in the cave and we are currently facing the Akatsuki, hurry back at once.''

''Something unexpected came up, I won't be able to go back just yet.'' Said Neji through the headphones and he sounded tense.

''I also have a situation. Sorry, Yugao-San.'' Replied Lee sounding just as upset as Neji was.

''Same here.'' Added Tenten.

''This is why I don't usually help with these kinds of things.'' Said Pakkun, apparently even the dog had been caught up in whatever mess the rest of them were.

''What do you mean by that? What is going on over there?! Respond!'' Murmured Yugao in worry, but to no avail, as none of them answered again. This was bad, it seemed that she and Kurotsuchi were going to have to fight the Akatsuki alone. ''Shit'' Was the only thing that Yugao could think about right now.

Meanwhile, Deidara was surprised at hearing that the tomboy had been fighting alongside Konoha's Jinchuuriki. ''So are you working with Konoha now? And now that I think about it, that bitch accompanying you is from Konoha too. So much for that pride that you were always boasting about, now you are betraying your home?'' Said Deidara in an effort to get under the girl's skin.

Kurotsuchi's ire got even stronger at the bomber's accusations. She would not be tolerated to be called a traitor and even less so from the likes of Deidara. ''You are one to talk! If I'm working with them is because of certain circumstances that forced me to do it! The only traitors here are all of you, assholes!'' Yelled the enraged girl.

''Keep telling yourself that. Not only are you working with Konoha but you are helping them in a mission to save Suna's Kage. What, working with just one of your enemies wasn't enough? Face it, you are as much of a traitor as me and you know it, un.'' Responded the blond with a condescending smile.

Kurotsuchi's blood was almost at its boiling point by now and she was about to reply when another voice boomed through the cavern.

''That's enough!''

The conversation got silent, and everyone, including the Akatsuki, looked at a particular hologram standing on one of the fingers of the great statue. The black figure had spiky hair and the only definitive feature one could make were his strange purple eyes with a ripple pattern. Kurotsuchi wasn't sure why, but the mere look and presence of that guy made a knot in her stomach; the aura that the man gave off was intimidating enough, even when he wasn't present. She couldn't imagine how bad it would be if he were actually there.

''The extraction of the Ichibi has failed. Secure the Jinchuuriki until this situation has been dealt with.'' Said the leader. They had been at mere seconds of completing the extraction, they had got most of the Chakra of the Ichibi that it would almost make up for not having the full Biju, but that didn't mean that completely extracting it wasn't preferable. ''Sasori, Deidara, get rid of these annoyances and find a new location to continue the extraction.'' Ordered the man.

''Of course.'' Responded Sasori.

''As you wish, leader-Sama, un.'' said Deidara.

''And you, girl.'' Said the purple-eyed figure as he directed his gaze to Kurotsuchi. Said girl could feel like he was staring into her very soul, everything about that man screamed danger to her. ''If you somehow manage to escape this place with your life, you better hope that we never meet each other. If you keep interfering with our plans is only a matter of time before you know true pain.'' Said the man ominously before he regarded his subordinates once more. ''We are done here for the moment. You are all dismissed.''

The Akatsuki members could tell that their leader was angry so they didn't dare to comment anything anymore. And with that, one by one of the holograms started vanishing, and once all of them were gone, the statue started sinking into the ground as it shook the cave's interior. until it was completely gone.

''Well, Sasori no Danna, you heard leader-Sama. Sorry Kurotsuchi-chan, as much as I would like to keep catching up on old times, I fear that we have to eliminate you, un.'' Said Deidara with a confident smirk.

''Just try it, bastard. Let's see how tough you are with only one arm.'' Taunted the girl. She hadn't had a good look at Deidara until now and she was just noticing, that for some reason, the mad bomber was missing an arm.

Deidara gave an annoyed grunt at being reminded of his missing limb. ''One arm is more than enough for you to deal with you, un.''

''Then, how about against all of us?''

Kurotsuchi, Yugao, and the two Akatsuki members turned their head to look at the source of the voice, and they saw Kakashi arriving at the cave, along with Naruto, Sakura, and an old plump lady with graying hair in a bun that wore a long dark robe.

''Naruto!'' Called Kurotsuchi with a grin, glad to see the blond idiot safe and sound.

''Kurotsuchi? What are you doing here?'' Asked the puzzled blond.

''Your Hokage thought things through, and in the end, she allowed me to come help you.'' Explained the tomboy.

''That's Tsunade-Baachan for you! Now we call all work together to get Gaara back from these bastards!'' Exclaimed the orange-clad Genin.

''Glad to see you here, Kakashi-Senpai.'' Said Yugao with respect and a small smile.

''I'm glad to see you two, also. This feels just like old times, eh Yugao-San?'' Said Kakashi, remembering his old days as an ANBU.

''Wait a minute here, am I going senile, or are we really working with an Iwa Shinobi?'' Asked the old lady.

''She really is an ally.'' Said Sakura.

''I think I have spent too much time isolated. Last time I checked, Konoha and Suna were in conflict with Iwa.'' Said the old woman with a frown.

''Things haven't really changed that much, honestly. Kurotsuchi here is a special case, Chiyo-Baasama.'' Explained Kakashi.

As they were talking among themselves, so were the two Akatsuki members.

''Deidara, the Kyuubi Jinchuuriki must be among them too. This would be a good chance to capture him.'' Said Sasori.

''I bet it's the idiot looking blond. He is the loudest, just as Itachi said, un.'' Analyzed the terrorist.

''We should split the group. The Kyuubi seems especially concerned about the Ichibi, so take the Kazekage with you and see if he gives chase.'' suggested the short man.

''Good idea, Sasori no Danna, un.'' Then, Deidara proceeded to make a giant bird made of clay, and in a puff of smoke, the small sculpture he had created turned gigantic.

The bomber's action drew once again the attention of Kakashi's group.

''Hey, what do you assholes think you are doing?!'' Yelled Naruto in anger.

''You want this guy, don't you?'' Said Deidara with a mocking smile as he referred to the unconscious Gaara that he had slung over his shoulder. ''Then come get it!'' Taunted the bomber before he tossed Gaara into the bird's mouth and the artificial creature closed its beak, trapping the redhead inside.

The Kyuubi's influence on Naruto made his eyes go red, as his rage got even stronger at seeing such a blatant disrespect for Gaara's body.

Deidara didn't wait for Naruto to start charging him, so he promptly got on the bird's back and took off through the air and left the cave without giving anyone a chance to attack him.

''I won't let you take Gaara!'' Yelled the angry Naruto, and quickly gave chase to the mad bomber.

''Wait for me, Naruto! I'll help you beat that prick to a pulp.'' Said the tomboy as she also started pursuing the missing-nin.

''Kids, don't be reckless!'' Kakashi called after them. He had expected Naruto to do something as stupid as rushing after Gaara without thinking, but he hadn't expected Kurotsuchi to go along with him too. ''I'll be going with them. Sakura, stay with Chiyo-Baasama to deal with the other one.'' Commanded Kakashi.

''I'll stay and help them too. Be careful out there, Kakashi-Senpai.'' Said Yugao.

''Same to you, girls.'' Added the copy ninja before he too took off.

It didn't take long for Kakashi to catch up to the two teenagers, and now they were all currently in hot pursuit of Deidara in a canyon; they were at the bottom of it while the Akatsuki member soared above it.

''You guys should be more careful about going after an enemy so carelessly, it could be a trap.'' Scolded the Sharingan user.

Kurotsuchi blushed in embarrassment. In her eagerness to get revenge on Deidara, she acted on impulse. She just hoped that Naruto's disregard for proper Shinobi tactics wasn't rubbing off on her.

''I'm sorry, Kakashi-sensei, I just can't tolerate seeing Gaara treated like this.'' Naruto apologized but he still seemed to be miffed.

''Just try to be more mindful in the future.'' Said Kakashi calmly.

''Anyway, now we have to find a way to get that fucker to come down.'' Said Kurotsuchi. ''I do have long range Jutsu, but at this distance, I don't know how effective they will be.'' Some of her techniques could be used at long range, but Deidara was just too far away. Not to mention, that he had always been at good maneuvering his clay mounts. He would most likely just easily dodge whatever she threw at him.

''I have nothing that will work from over here.'' Admitted Naruto with a bit of shame.

''No choice then, I'll have to go all out.'' Said Kakashi as he lifted his headband to reveal his Sharingan eye. ''I'm still getting the hang of my new Sharingan, but it'll have to do.''

Naruto had a look of confusion at that. ''What do you mean by 'new' Sharingan, Kakashi-Sensei?'' Asked the blond.

Kurotsuchi also raised an eyebrow at that. How could someone even get a 'new' Sharingan anyway, save for a transplant?

''Just give me a moment and I'll show you.'' Said the copy ninja as he put his hands in a ram hand seal to gather Chakra.

Naruto and Kurotsuchi waited impatiently for a few minutes while Kakashi kept gathering his Chakra. They were wondering if Deidara was going to escape at this rate when finally, Kakashi broke the silence.

''It's done.'' Informed the silver-haired man.

Both teenagers looked at Kakashi's Sharingan in amazement when they saw the eye morphing before them. The three tomoe of the Doujutsu fused together to make a stretched three pointed star that had a curve at the tips which formed a circle, making the pattern look somewhat like a pinwheel.

''What is that form? It changed, just like Itachi's!'' Exclaimed Naruto.

''I've never seen anything like this before.'' Muttered the Iwa Kunoichi. She never heard of Sharingans changing form, but to be fair, no one talked about the Doujutsu anymore since so few Uchiha remained that there was a very diminutive chance of facing one of those nowadays.

''Just a warning: I'm not very good at using it yet, so if I'm unable to end the battle with this, I'll need you guys to finish that guy off. The Jutsu I'm about to use uses a considerable amount of Chakra and puts a huge strain on my body. After I use it I won't be of much help afterward.'' Explained Kakashi.

''Don't worry about it, Kakashi-Sensei. You can leave it to us.'' Said Naruto with an unusual serious face.

''That's right, we got it.'' Assured the Kunoichi.

''I'm counting on you.'' Said Kakashi before focusing his gaze on the airborne Deidara. ''Here I go. Kamui!''

Suddenly, the area around Deidara started distorting, which also seemed to affect his form. It looked as if space itself was being sucked into a single point.

''What is going on?!'' Asked Deidara in panic. He momentarily looked back at his pursuers with the scope on his eye, and even then he could barely see Kakashi's weird eye looking at him. ''Shit, Doujutsu! And it seems to be at Itachi's level too!'' Thought the bomber in realization.

''What a fearsome Jutsu.'' Thought Kurotsuchi in awe. She realized that Kakashi's fame wasn't for nothing. No wonder everyone in Iwa dreaded facing him in combat.

''Incredible.'' Was the only thing that Naruto could think of at seeing the amazing technique.

''I need to get out of this thing!'' Thought Deidara with urgency. This was the first time since the chase started that he truly felt that he was in deep shit. If Hatake succeeded in his attack, he had a feeling that he was done for. He tried to steer his mount away from the distortion but to no avail, not only was the damn thing keeping him from moving too much, but it was also sucking in all around it. Finally, the core of the void distortion seemed to focus on his remaining arm, and he let out a scream of pain when it felt his limb being tore from his torso and sucked into the abyss. Luckily for him, after the Jutsu claimed his arm, the space distortion seemed to be getting back to normal.

Naruto and Kurotsuchi noticed Kakashi covering his Sharingan in pain, which caused it to break the technique. It was then when they realized that they would have to finish the job. With that in mind, both teenagers ran even faster, and started running on the walls of the canyon on opposite sides, as they rushed to get to a better position to jump at the Akatsuki member, and sure enough, once they considered that the distance was good, they gave a mighty leap towards their objective.

In the air, Naruto quickly made a clone of himself and with its help, he formed a Rasengan in his hand, ready to use it against the bomber. Meanwhile, Kurotsuchi unsheathed her sword in hopes of skewering the missing-nin.

Deidara was busy examining his new wound and he barely noticed his two attackers when they were almost upon him.

Naruto and Kurotsuchi were flanking Deidara, and they both attacked at the same time. The Akatsuki member jumped to the side of his clay bird, avoiding Naruto's Rasengan, who instead hit the neck of his mount and separated the head from the body. And while in the air, Deidara also barely had time to duck the slash from the blade of the girl, but Kurotsuchi used the momentum of her swing to make a sharp turn of her body and launch a kick that smacked Deidara in the face, harshly sending the artist in a free fall towards the trees below.

Naruto created even more clones as they fell from the sky, and he used the extra manpower to hold the head of the bird which he knew contained Gaara inside of it. Both he and Kurotsuchi managed to land gracefully on top of the trees, unlike Deidara, who hit a tree trunk painfully before plummeting to the ground with a grunt of pain.

Naruto's main concern was to save Gaara, so he stayed behind to dig him up from the clay while Kurotsuchi went to deal with the mad bomber.

Meanwhile, Deidara was trying to get on his feet despite the sharp pain of his missing limb and the kick from earlier. ''Damn it! why is it always the arms?!'' Complained the artist. First, Ohnoki disintegrated one of his arms, he then got it replaced by Kakuzu, only to lose it again against the Ichibi; and now, the copy ninja took his remaining arm. He was just starting to stand up when a big shot of quicklime slammed him to a tree and glued him to it.

A moment later, from the woods came Kurotsuchi with a smug grin. ''Then, I'll take your head for a change, how does that sound? Suiton: Mizurappa! (Water Release: Water trumpet)'' She then expelled a large stream of water from her mouth, normally the technique would have been much larger, but she toned it down since she just wanted to restrain Deidara at the moment; otherwise it would be a shame if she were to kill him with it, She wasn't about to let him die without making the bastard suffer a little.

Once the water stopped coming, Deidara inhaled a large intake of air to catch his breath before he started coughing. After he stopped, he found Kurotsuchi glaring at him. ''Bravo, Kurotsuchi-Chan, you must feel so proud getting into so much trouble catching a cripple and needing help from your Konoha masters on top of it.'' Taunted the mad bomber.

Kurotsuchi gave him a look that promised nothing but pain. ''I changed my mind. Maybe I should cut your tongue instead and force you to eat it.'' Said the tomboy as she took her sword and pointed it directly at Deidara's face, just a few inches away from it.

Deidara just gave her a mocking smirk, not impressed at all by her threat. ''You always thought that you were tougher than you really are.''

''And you were always an ass. Too bad we never realized that until it was too late. Fortunately, today I finally get revenge for all the Iwa lives you took.'' Said the pink-eyed girl, still keeping her sword on the blond's face.

The man responded with a humorless laugh. ''There you go again with your hypocrisy. You berate me for betraying Iwa, but here you are working with Konoha and Suna like an obedient little lapdog.''

''This is different. I don't have a choice but to work with them right now. You did have a choice. I haven't betrayed Iwa and I never will. You, on the other hand, are the biggest traitor in the history of our nation.'' Said the tomboy with an icy look.

Deidara gave her an amused look. ''You say you are not a traitor? I wonder if Ohnoki and Kitsuchi will say the same. What would they and your comrades think if they saw you here teaming up with their worst enemies? What would they think if they saw you being buddies with the Kyuubi?'' Inquired the blond.

''Shut up! you don't know anything.'' Warned the tomboy with a fierce look.

''I may be a traitor, yes. But I have no love left for anyone in Iwa. You on the other hand, still have people there that care about you and you care about them. Your betrayal is way worse than mine for it!'' Continued the terrorist all while he smiled with amusement.

''I said shut up!'' Repeated an increasingly agitated Kurotsuchi.

Deidara ignored her and got a reminiscing look on his face. ''Also I can still remember when you were a little brat, following me around like a lost puppy. Always complaining and crying that your mom was dead and how you wanted all of Konoha to perish for killing her. And here you are, shaking hands with the murderers of you moth- ugh!'' He was interrupted by a strong punch to the face.

''Ahhhh!'' Kurotsuchi kept yelling in anger as she continued to repeatedly hit the traitor in the face. ''Shut up! Shut up! Shut up!'' repeated the girl again and again as she continued her barrage of attacks. She only stopped, when suddenly, someone else's hand held her wrist with a firm grip, keeping her from delivering any more punches.

''That is enough.'' Said the calm voice of Kakashi as he held her arm.

''Why do you stop me, Kakashi?! He is a traitor to my village and deserves everything he has coming to him!'' Said the angry girl, but still, the copy ninja didn't let go.

''I know you are angry, I would be too if I were in your shoes. But he would be of more use to us alive at the moment. He will be a good source of information about Akatsuki and their plans.'' Explained the silver-haired Shinobi in an attempt to calm her down.

''He deserves to suffer for what he has done!'' Insisted the Kunoichi.

''And he will. He will be put into Suna's custody. After kidnapping the Kazekage, his punishment will be severe, maybe even a living hell. You would be doing him a favor if you kill him.'' Reasoned Kakashi, still keeping his cool demeanor.

Kurotsuchi was still shaking in rage, but what the Sharingan user said made sense. After what he did to Suna, they would enjoy tearing Deidara's asshole apart. She glanced one last time at Deidara's bloodied face, who despite his injuries, he still managed to give her a mocking grin. She gave him a death stare, but after much debating, she finally shook away the hold of the copy ninja. ''Fine. We'll take him prisoner and let him to rot in Suna's prison.''

Deidara took the opportunity to keep his tirade going. ''That's right, Kurotsuchi-chan, you better obey your Konoha owners like a-hmph!'' He was interrupted once again, but this time, it was due to Kakashi putting a dirty rag in his mouth.

''If his words are that bothersome we can always gag him.'' Said the Sharingan user as he finished tying the rag to keep the bomber from talking. ''See?''

Kurotsuchi couldn't help herself from grinning maliciously at the angry face of Deidara, who didn't seem to take kindly at being gagged. ''I guess you are right.'' Concluded the tomboy, agreeing with Kakashi.

''Guys!''

Then, the entirety of Team Gai, along with Pakkun, arrived in the same clearing. They all looked worse for wear, but aside from some scratches, they were fine.

''I see you finally caught up, Gai.'' Said Kakashi amicably.

''Sorry for taking so long. That blue guy from the Akatsuki was no pushover, even if it was just a double. And on top of that, I stopped along the way to help my lovely students deal with their struggles.'' Explained Gai.

''Something strange happened; when we took off the seals creating the barrier that blocked the hideout of the Akatsuki, we were confronted by perfect copies of ourselves with all of our abilities.'' Said Neji with a neutral face. But Kurotsuchi could notice, that for some reason, the Hyuga was glancing at her occasionally and giving her a cold glare.

''Our copies were tough to beat, but no surprise since they were us.'' Said Lee with a grin.

''Good thing that Gai-Sensei came when he did, though. We may be still fighting ourselves if he hadn't come to help.'' Added Tenten with a tired sigh.

''It's been a while since I stretched my legs like that.'' Said Pakkun.

''I was wondering where you where, Pakkun.'' Said Kakashi curiously.

''Something came up and I had to extend my help, and being as dutiful as I am, I couldn't refuse.'' Boasted the pug.

''Ah and I see that you managed to capture one of the Akatsuki. As expected of my eternal rival!'' Praised Gai with a thumbs up as he eyed the restrained and angry Deidara.

''Actually, it was Kurotsuchi who captured him.'' Said the copy ninja as he glanced at the Iwa Kunoichi.

Kurotsuchi had refrained from speaking since she was still trying to calm her temper after her previous conversation with Deidara, but she couldn't help but feel self-conscious due to all the surprised stares sent her way.

''Is that so? Impressive young Kurotsuchi! I knew that your flames of youth were burning strong!'' Exclaimed Gai with a smile.

''That's right! You are very skilled indeed, Kurotsuchi-san!'' Lee agreed with his master.

''Good job, girl.'' Added Tenten with a grin and a wink.

Neji stayed silent, and for some reason, Kurotsuchi could swear that his glare was even worse than the usual cold looks he had given her in the past.

''It was nothing really. I had a lot of help, I barely did anything.'' Said the tomboy modestly. Normally, she would take any chance to boast about her skills but she really wasn't in the mood right now with Deidara's words still fresh in her mind.

''Anyway, we should get back and look for the rest of the team. Not to mention that we left Sakura, Yugao, and Chiyo-Baasama to deal with the other Akatsuki.'' Said Kakashi.

''No need for that.'' Yelled Yugao as she arrived in the clearing alongside Sakura, Chiyo, and Naruto who was currently carrying an unconscious Gaara slung over his shoulder.

''How great it's to see everyone is all right!'' Said the loud Gai.

''I can say the same to you. I was really worried when we had to leave you to fight Hoshigaki by your own.'' Said Yugao with relief.

''I have to admit, I had pretty close calls but I managed to emerge victorious in the end!'' Exclaimed Gai.

''I can see that.'' Said the ANBU plainly. Obviously, if Gai hadn't won he wouldn't be here right now. She then turned to look at the younger members of Team Gai. ''And what about you? Why wouldn't you answer my calls?''

''We are sorry, Yugao-San. We ran into a bit of trouble on the way.'' Explained Lee apologetically.

''We'll give you the details later. Right now there are much more pressing matters to attend to.'' Said Neji serenely.

''Neji-Kun is right. like, what happened to the other Akatsuki member that we left you fighting with?'' Asked Kakashi.

''Sasori is dead. We managed to defeat him.'' Said Chiyo solemnly. She hadn't said a word since she arrived, and now that she did, everyone noticed the sad tone in her voice. It was understandable really, fighting your grandson to the death would leave anyone feeling depressed.

''Also, we managed to get some information out of him on Orochimaru just before he died.'' Informed Sakura.

''What?! You managed to find information about that bastard of Orochimaru?! Amazing! Sakura-Chan you are the best!'' Praised Naruto. ''This could be a lead to get to Sasuke!'' Said the blond with enthusiasm.

''Good job, Sakura.'' Said Kakashi with pride. ''We are going to have to discuss that some other time, though. First, we must attend to Gaara.'' Added the cyclops as he turned to look at the redhead that was slung on Naruto's shoulder.

''Sakura-Chan already checked him when she met up with me. She says he will be fine.'' Said Naruto with reassurance.

Said medic decided to elaborate on what Naruto said. ''I healed the injuries he sustained, most likely when he was captured. He is also suffering from severe Chakra exhaustion, but I already gave him a soldier pill to help him with that.'' Not to mention, that him being a Jinchuuriki, he was already regenerating his Chakra at a high rate thanks to his Biju.

Everyone seemed satisfied with the answer and seeing that they had retrieved the Kazekage and captured a member of Akatsuki on top of it, they could consider their mission a success.

''Good job everyone, you all did great.'' Congratulated Kakashi with an eye smile.

''I think it's time for us to get to Suna.'' concluded Yugao.

''Yosh! If that's the case then, Kakashi let's race to see who can get there first!'' challenge the energetic Gai.

''No.'' The copy ninja said simply with a deadpan look, which seemed to disappoint the Taijutsu master.

''Damn you, Kakashi! You and that hip attitude that I can't stand!'' Complained the eccentric man.

Not liking to see his teacher deflated, Rock Lee rose up to the challenge. ''Don't worry, Gai-sensei! I'll take you on your challenge! and if I can't win I'll do a thousand laps around- Ouch!'' before he could continue, he was smacked in the back of his head by Tenten.

''Don't go around inciting him, idiot!'' Berated the weapons user.

''Well, I don't think you have more need for me. so I will be taking my leave.'' Informed Pakkun.

''Of course. Thanks, Pakkun, you were a great aid.'' Said Kakashi with gratitude to his summon.

''You really helped us back there.'' Yugao agreed with the copy ninja.

''You are welcome. Call me anytime.'' Said the pug before he vanished in a puff of smoke.

''Why are we still here? We got the Kazegake, let's go. I'm not getting any younger you know.'' Said Chiyo with impatience.

Kakashi nodded, agreeing with the old woman. ''You heard Chiyo-Baasama, let's get moving.''

At Kakashi's order, everyone complied, and with that they were on their way.

-Somewhere in the Land of Wind-

With their speed, they didn't take long to reach the Land of Wind, and now the only thing that could be seen around them as far as the eye could see was sand. However, since they had long way to go, as they traveled, everyone was taking advantage of the trip to talk among themselves and catch up: Gai, Yugao, and Kakashi were discussing the mission details, Sakura was chatting with Chiyo in an effort to keep the old lady company and try to cheer her up after they were forced to dispose of Sasori; and the rest of team Gai were talking with Naruto who was currently carrying the unconscious Gaara. The only one who wasn't participating in the conversations was Kurotsuchi, who was keeping herself at the back of their group with a frown on her face as she glared at a restrained Deidara, who was currently being carried by Gai with just one arm, and he was passing the time by returning the girl the favor and glaring back at her.

''How long do you guys think it will take for Gaara to wake up?'' Asked Naruto with concern to his friends.

''You heard Sakura, Gaara should be fine as long as he gets plenty of rest.'' Said Neji logically.

''You worry too much Naruto. He is out of danger now, you can rest easy.'' Added Tenten.

''Gaara-Kun is one of the strongest shinobi I know. I'm sure that he will make a full recovery before we know it.'' Said Lee with optimism.

''I guess you are right.'' Said Naruto with resignation. Then, he looked over his shoulder to check on his red head friend, and as he did, he also saw Kurotsuchi at the back of the group, and it was at that moment that he realized that he had barely talked with the tomboy through all the mission, but he was also curious on why the Iwa girl looked so unhappy. ''Guys, do you know what's up with Kurotsuchi? She has been looking pretty down lately.'' Asked the blond, keeping his voice down so the Iwa girl wouldn't hear them, of course.

''What do you mean, Naruto-kun? Is something wrong with Kurotsuchi-San?'' Asked a puzzled Lee as Tenten looked at the tomboy to see what Naruto was talking about.

''It's just that she has been keeping herself away from us lately. Also, she has that scary look on her face.'' Naruto pointed out with concern.

''Beats me. She has been like that since we met up with her again back in The Land of Rivers.'' Said Tenten before she realized something. ''Hey, and now that I remember, why didn't you tell me that the sword I fixed for you was hers? It would have been an interesting topic.'' Asked the weapons user with a sly grin. She was obviously fishing for information on how Naruto met the girl.

''I'm sorry, Tenten. I didn't think it mattered since you didn't know her at the time.'' Said Naruto as he scratched the back of his neck nervously. The last thing he wanted to do was to tell them that he met her when she kidnapped him.

Seeing that Tenten didn't get anything out of her question, Neji decided to try himself by cutting to the chase. ''By the way Naruto, I was curious about how you know someone like her. It doesn't seem like something that just happened by mere chance.'' Asked the Hyuga politely but also with suspicion.

''I didn't want to intrude, Naruto-Kun. but I can't help but be curious too.'' Said Lee sheepishly.

Naruto was starting to sweat due to the pressure. He really didn't want to tell them the full scenario of his first encounter with the girl; it would just make things awkward. ''It's a really long story. I think we should leave that for another day, okay?'' Said Naruto with a shaky grin.

Neji nodded in understanding, not wanting to pry more than he should.

''I understand Naruto-Kun. It's no big deal really.'' Said Lee politely.

''Awww I was really curious. But I guess I can't force you to say anything.'' Said Tenten in disappointment.

''Sorry.'' Said Naruto apologetically.

''However, Naruto I must ask you to be careful around her.'' Warned Neji with a serious face.

''Where did that come from?'' Asked Naruto with surprise. ''You don't have to worry about Kurotsuchi, Neji. I know her and I can assure you that she is nice.''

''Aren't you being a little hard on her?'' Tenten asked her Hyuga comrade. ''I know that she is a foreigner and all, but she seems good.''

''Tenten is right. Kurotsuchi-San doesn't strike me as a bad person.'' Lee gave his opinion.

''Just trust me. Don't let your guard down with her, she is dangerous.'' Insisted the Hyuga with his same neutral expression.

But despite Neji's best efforts, Naruto was already getting angry. ''I don't know why you feel the need to talk about her like that, Neji. But Kurotsuchi is my friend and I know her better than you do. I don't like you making these accusations without motive!'' Said Naruto in indignation.

''The relationship you have with her is your business, Naruto. I'm just asking you, as a friend, to keep my words in mind.'' Finished Neji.

Lee and Tenten didn't know what to say in this awkward situation so they just refrained from speaking.

Now that Neji had killed the mood of the conversation, Naruto decided to see what Kurotsuchi was up to. He wanted to know first-hand what had been bothering the tomboy; and now that he thought about it, he had been so busy trying to save Gaara that he had been neglecting Kurotsuchi and didn't want her to think that he didn't care about her.

''Lee.'' Naruto called to his green-clad friend.

''What is it, Naruto-Kun?'' Asked the curious boy.

''Do you mind carrying Gaara for a bit? There is something I need to do.'' Explained Naruto.

''Of course, Naruto-Kun. It's no problem at all.'' Lee responded cordially before Naruto passed the unconscious Gaara to Lee.

''Thanks, Lee. I'll be right back.'' Said Naruto with gratitude, and he then proceeded to slow down his pace, and once he was at the back of the group, just beside Kurotsuchi, he resumed his normal speed.

''Hey.'' Said Naruto in a friendly manner to the grumpy girl.

''Hey yourself.'' Responded the tomboy as she stared at the road ahead.

''Is something the matter?'' You don't look very cheery today.'' Inquired the blond.

Despite Naruto trying to initiate a conversation with her, she was still not meeting his eyes. ''I'm fine. That asshole just pisses me off, that's all.'' Said the girl as she followed Deidara with her gaze.

The mad bomber was currently being carried by Gai under one arm as if he were a plank of wood, but he ended up being carried backwards, and due to that, he could look at most of the group just fine since Gai was at the very front of the unit along with Kakashi and Yugao. Fortunately, he was still bound and gagged, so at least he wasn't going to be bothering anyone with insults and taunts.

''That's right, you used to know him, didn't you?'' Asked the blond, careful in being delicate in case it was a sensible topic for the girl.

The girl nodded, still keeping her eye on the Akatsuki member. ''We were close once. I used to look up to him, actually.'' Said the girl, and for a moment, Naruto could swear that she got a sad look in her eyes before she went back to glaring at the terrorist.

''I see.'' Was the only thing Naruto could say. He kind of understood how she felt like. After Sasuke left to become Orochimaru's student, he couldn't help but feel somewhat betrayed by the Uchiha; of course, he would never stop trying to get Sasuke back, but that didn't mean that he wasn't sad and angry when the raven-haired boy ditched his friends and the entire village. But Naruto understood that for Kurotsuchi it had to be way worse; even if Sasuke left them, he at least never attacked his own village.

Kurotsuchi continued her tirade. ''I can't believe I've ever...'' She stopped herself from finishing that sentence. She couldn't admit to Naruto that she used to have a crush on the bastard when she was little. For her, it was shameful that she once had feelings for the biggest traitor of her village. Instead, she just shook her head, as it didn't matter anymore. ''...Nevermind. I'm a moron for never realizing how he really was back then.''

''Don't say that. How were you supposed to know that? You were just a kid.'' Naruto tried to reason with her.

''That's no excuse. I spent a lot of time with him and I was still blind to his true nature. And everyone else paid for it.'' The tomboy continued to berate herself.

''You are too hard on yourself, you know that?'' Said Naruto with a concerned frown.

''I should be. If I had been more attentive, I could have warned everyone before he committed mass genocide!'' Said an upset Kurotsuchi, raising her tone of voice.

Naruto knew that it was pointless to try to reason this issue out. So he tried something different, maybe he could just try and distract the girl from the topic. ''It isn't your fault that he is...blond?'' Said the Jinchuuriki lamely with a nervous smile, wondering if this was going to work.

Kurotsuchi was caught off guard by the stupid comment, and for the first time since Naruto came talk to her, she looked him straight in the eyes with a bewildered look. ''What?...'' Said the confused girl. The bizarre comment left her without words.

Now that Kurotsuchi took the bait, Naruto pushed on, with a bit more confidence and his smile got more genuine. ''Yea. I mean, we blonds do have a special charm, didn't you know? People can't help but trust us.'' Boasted the orange-clad Genin.

''You? Charming? You are an idiot, you mean.'' Said Kurotsuchi with an amused smirk.

''Well, I'm pretty unique. I can see how the two might be confused.'' Said Naruto with a smile and squinted eyes.

''Nope, I'm pretty sure you are just an idiot.'' Insisted Kurotsuchi while She gave a small grin at Naruto's stupid remarks.

''A lovable idiot, maybe?'' Inquired the blond.

''Nah.'' Replied the tomboy with an even wider smirk.

Naruto gave her a pout and the girl couldn't help but laugh at his childish reaction. Seeing that his plan to cheer her up seemed to be working, Naruto also smiled and joined in her laughter.

''Okay okay, maybe I'm just an idiot. But I'm still awesome, dattebayo!'' Said the blond with a smirk.

''Whatever you say, Naruto.'' Said the pink-eyed girl with a warm smile. Naruto thought he was so clever, she had already suspected what he had been trying to do but she still played along with him. What could she say? Maybe the idiot did have a certain kind of charm after all. ''Thank you, Naruto.'' Thought the girl, as she glanced at the Jinchuuriki with a fond look.

However, from the corner of her eye, she noticed Deidara looking at them attentively. She noticed that he wasn't glaring anymore, he was just looking at them with an unreadable expression. She couldn't think about it too much anyway since Naruto resumed talking to her soon after.

''Hey Kurotsuchi, you still haven't told me how you ended up coming along anyway.'' Said the blond in wonder.

''Oh that's right.'' Said the tomboy with a look of realization. ''Well, after you left, I was pretty much just wasting time. But the day after, your Hokage asked to see me and then...'' And so, the girl started explaining her situation to Naruto, and they kept speaking about it through all their trip. And as they talked, Kurotsuchi realized that she really had missed hanging out with her friend.

Author's note: I bet you didn't expect me to update so fast did you? I wasn't kidding when I said earlier that I had a part of this chapter already written. Like last time, I hope I got the interactions right. Whenever I have a lot of characters in one scene I get overwhelmed by the huge amount of possible interactions that they could have. But despite that, I had a lot of fun writing it, yes it was hard, but also fun.

I'll try to start writing the next chapter right away, I already got a lot of it in my mind, so I hope it's not too hard. Sadly, I don't think the next one will be up as soon as this one was, but who knows, maybe I end up surprising myself.

Oh, one more thing: Don't be afraid to PM me about any doubt you might have. I always try to answer even if sometimes it takes me a little while.

And as always, I hope you enjoyed the chapter and please review if you have the chance! So until next time!