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The author of the cover image is indy-riquez from DeviantArt. You can check the link for the original image in my profile.

Chapter 18: Teambuilding

-Konohagakure no Sato-

''...and that concludes our report, Tsunade-Sama.'' Said Kakashi as he was just finishing telling the Hokage what transpired in their most recent mission.

The blonde woman gave a smile, pleased with the results. ''You did a great job, all of you.'' Praised the Sannin as she looked at all the people currently in her office: Team Seven, Team Gai, Yugao, and Kurotsuchi. ''Not only is this good for our relations with Suna, but this is also a setback for the Akatsuki and their plans.''

''Maybe this will teach those bastards to not mess with us! Or other villages and their Jinchuuriki for that matter.'' Said Naruto.

''If only, but I highly doubt that will be the case. If anything, this will make the Akatsuki be more cautious in the future. Nevertheless, I'm happy to see that your training paid off, Naruto. In my opinion, you handled yourself pretty well.'' Said the woman with a smile full of pride, to which the Jinchuuriki responded with a sheepish laugh as he scratched the back of his head.

''Sending reinforcements was a good call, Tsunade-Sama. Things could have gone much worse if we hadn't had help.'' Admitted Kakashi with a bit of shame. He had faith in the competency of his team, but it was true that they had come pretty close to failing the mission even with Gai and company. Without their support, things could have ended in disaster.

''I'm also relieved to see that the situation didn't take a turn for the worse.'' Responded Tsunade before she directed her gaze towards Kurotsuchi. ''On another note, I'm glad to see that you behaved yourself, girl.''

''Of course, lady Hokage. I gave my word that I would and I always fulfill my promises.'' Answered the Iwa Kunoichi, showing all the confidence she could muster, but on the inside, she was wishing with all her might that Neji kept his mouth shut. Even if the Hyuga had practically said that he wasn't going to start an issue since he didn't have evidence of what she tried to do, that didn't mean that Kurotsuchi still felt comfortable knowing that the guy could rat her out at any moment, and in front of the Hokage no less.

''Young Kurotsuchi did admirably well, Hokage-Sama! I must admit, even I had my reservations when she was assigned to come with us, but now I can say without a doubt that she is an honorable Shinobi and I would have no problem working together with her again!'' Said the energetic Gai with a smile and a thumbs up.

''Indeed! Just as Gai-Sensei says, Kurotsuchi-San was a great help, and I'm happy to call her a comrade!'' Added Lee. He wanted to give a positive opinion on the girl since the Hokage obviously still distrusted the Kunoichi heavily, but Lee concluded that Kurotsuchi didn't deserve the dislike that everyone had for her just because she was from Iwa.

''She even captured the Akatsuki member! Her knowledge on the guy really made a difference'' Added Tenten, helping her teammate put a good word for the tomboy.

Kurotsuchi was uncomfortable at Team Gai's words as she felt ashamed that she had been very close to betraying that very same trust that they put on her.

''Is that so?'' Said Tsunade with a smirk as she stared at the Iwa girl. ''Then I hope that you keep that good conduct of yours, brat. Who knows, I may eventually even let you return to Iwa if you don't cause any trouble.'' ''Like hell I would.'' Added Tsunade mentally.

Kurotsuchi gave the woman a nod of acknowledgment ''That's very generous of you, Hokage-Sama.'' ''Like hell you would.'' Thought the pink-eyed girl as she tried to keep a straight face in politeness.

''Anyway, as I was saying, this is a great victory for us in our efforts against the Akatsuki; not only did you guys manage to kill one of them, but you also captured the other one, so he is practically as good as dead'' Tsunade congratulated them once more.

''Speaking of which, Tsunade-Shishou'' Said Sakura, which garnered the looks of everyone present. ''When we took down of one of the Akatsuki members, he told us some information regarding Orochimaru, and could maybe even help us find Sasuke-Kun.''

That made everyone get looks of surprise, even both teams that already knew of that. With everything that had been going on they had forgotten to ask the medic on what she learned from Sasori.

Naruto was especially embarrassed, he couldn't believe that he forgot that Sakura had learned intel on Orochimaru. He had been too busy hanging out with Gaara and Kurotsuchi -More so with Kurotsuchi- that the issue never crossed his head again until know.

''I see.'' Responded Tsunade with seriousness before she looked at Gai and his team. ''Gai, you and your team are dismissed. I would like to talk with Team Seven alone if you don't mind.''

The Taijutsu master nodded in understanding. He knew that if the info concerned Orochimaru and by extension Sasuke, then this was a personal affair among Team Seven and he would rather not intrude.''Of course, Tsunade-Sama. We already reported our progress, so we should get going anyway'' Said Gai before he turned to the rest of his team. ''All right, everyone! We can't keep disregarding our training and let our flames of youth falter, so let's go!'' finished the eccentric man before he started walking to the door of the office as his team followed him without complaint.

''Naruto-Kun, Sakura-San, Kurotsuchi-San, I'll see you guys later. I might even invite you to a spar!'' Said Lee with a smile and a thumbs up before he followed his Sensei.

''See you guys around! I enjoyed working with you'' Said the friendly Tenten as she also left.

''Until next time'' Said Neji plainly before he followed the rest of his team.

''Sure guys! I'll see you soon!'' Naruto responded back with a wave of his arm.

With Team Gai gone, Tsunade proceeded to direct her gaze towards Yugao and Kurotsuchi. ''You two are also dismissed. Yugao, please escort Kurotsuchi back to her apartment.''

''Roger, Hokage-Sama.'' Answered the ANBU obediently before she turned to the girl at her side. ''Come, girl.''

''What? But..'' Kurotsuchi wanted to complain, she was curious to know about whatever Sakura had to say too. But the Iwa girl stopped herself to avoid angering the Hokage.

''It's fine, Kurotsuchi. I'll come by later to talk.'' Naruto reassured her.

Kurotsuchi knew that the blond was practically telling her that he was going to inform her later of whatever they discussed, so the Iwa Kunoichi nodded in understanding. ''Okay, I'll be going then.'' Responded the tomboy before she followed Yugao out of the office.

Now that Team Seven had been left alone with the Hokage, everyone looked at Sakura expectantly, waiting for the medic to start telling them of what she learned.

''You see, when we defeated Sasori, just before he died he told us that he had a spy among Orochimaru's ranks. And that he was supposed to meet with his spy at the Tenchi Bridge, I believe he said.'' Said the pink-haired girl.

''I see! If we manage to catch that spy we should be able to get information on that prick of Orochimaru, maybe even find out where he and Sasuke are!'' Exclaimed Naruto with excitement.

''This is indeed vital information, Sakura. I'm impressed.'' Said the Sannin with a smile, proud of how much her student had grown.

''And that's not all, Sasori said that the meeting with his spy was going to take place in ten days at the time of his death.'' Added Sakura.

Kakashi brought his hand to his chin as he pondered on this information. ''Ten days at the time of his death, uh? Well, we took a whole day to get back to Suna; then we spent another day resting; then the trip back took us three days. So that means that the meeting is supposed to take place in about five days from now.'' Concluded the cyclops with a thoughtful look.

''Then we still have plenty of time to prepare and track down this spy!'' Said Naruto with determination.

''It's not a much as you might think, brat.'' Said Tsunade. ''We have to take into account the time that it takes to get to Tenchi Bridge, which is in The Land of Grass.''

''Tsunade-Sama is right, the time it takes to get from Konoha to Kusa is about two days, more or less. So, if we are to get there in time we can't take more than three days to start the trip. And just to be safe, we shouldn't take more than two, we don't want to risk missing our chance.'' Analyzed Kakashi.

''That's correct. We can't risk not making it there in time, so I'll be sending you, Team Seven, to The Land of Grass in two days time.'' Said Tsunade sternly. ''Your mission will be to meet up with the spy that the Akatsuki infiltrated into Orochimaru's ranks. You are tasked with capturing him or her and bring them back. Since the spy has connections with both the Akatsuki and Orochimaru the information he or she may possess will be invaluable. But the information we are more interested in is the one on Orochimaru. The snake is elusive and has Uchiha Sasuke with him. This is a great chance to see if we can learn about his whereabouts, maybe it will even help us to formulate a plan to assassinate him and bring back Sasuke.''

''Understood, Hokage-Sama. Anything else?'' Said Kakashi.

''Just one more thing: You would do well to look for one more person to go with you. As you know, you are short one member and I already learned my mistake from your past mission on the risks of sending you ill-prepared.'' Said Tsunade.

''Well, that's simple! I'll just ask Kurotsuchi to come with us!'' Declared Naruto as if that was the most obvious choice to take.

Sakura sighed at the blond's choice, he just seemed to want to include that girl in everything he could.

Meanwhile, Tsunade groaned in exasperation. ''Naruto, the only reason I allowed the girl to aid you last time was because it was the best choice in that moment. But now I rather not take unnecessary risks with that girl if I can help it.'' Said the Hokage.

''But she already proved that she can be trusted! And not only that but we already saw that she works well with us.'' Insisted Naruto.

Tsunade was about to scold the Jinchuuriki when Kakashi spoke before she could.

''Actually, Tsunade-Sama, I think that sending the girl with us might not be such a bad idea.'' Said the copy ninja.

Everyone in the room looked at the Sharingan user with dumbfounded expressions. None of them, not even Naruto, expected the man to agree to let the girl go.

Kakashi decided to elaborate his point since everyone was too busy looking at him like he just grew a second head. ''As Naruto says, Kurotsuchi already showed us that she is not looking for a chance to stab us in the back. Also, she did work well with the team, and I think that splitting some other team to borrow one of their members is not necessary, not when we have someone as capable as her already available and likely willing to come.''

Naruto was the first one to snap out of his surprise and took the opportunity to use the copy ninja's agreement to his advantage. ''See? Even Kakashi-Sensei is all up for it!''

Tsunade sighed, a bit irritated. ''Dealing with Naruto's stubbornness is already bad enough, but you too, Kakashi?'' Asked the Hokage.

''Meh, maybe the girl is starting to grow on me.'' replied Kakashi with a casual shrug as he scratched the back of his head.

Tsunade didn't buy Kakashi's excuse. The man was too smart to risk the girl accompanying and something happening just because she was 'growing on him.' She massaged her temple, deciding with much reluctance to give the idea a shot. ''Fine, tell you what, If you can't find anyone else to accompany you, and if the girl agrees, she can go with you.'' Conceded the blonde.

''You are the best, Tsunade-Baachan!'' Said Naruto.

''But remember, I still want you to make a real effort to find some other member. Is that clear?'' Said the Hokage.

''Yea yea, don't worry about a thing, Tsunade-Baachan! I got this!'' Declared the Jinchuuriki.

''Well, not that we left all that clear, you are all dismissed, except for you, Kakashi. I have something to discuss with you.'' Said the woman as she looked intently at the copy ninja.

Both teenagers looked with curiosity at the Hokage, wondering what the woman wanted with their Sensei. But they decided to not dwell on it too much so they just complied.

''Okay!'' ''Understood.'' Responded Naruto and Sakura in unison before they left the office, leaving the cyclops and the Sannin alone.

Tsunade and Kakashi looked at each other silently for a few seconds until the Hokage broke the silence. ''I didn't expect you to agree with Naruto in letting the girl go with you. We don't know if she won't try anything on us, she is dangerous. What are you playing, Kakashi?'' Inquired the Hokage.

Kakashi knew that Tsunade was bound to ask him that. It was true that Kurotsuchi was kind of growing on him, but still, he was a Shinobi first above all else. If he were to consider that letting the girl come with them was too risky he wouldn't have even contemplated the option. But still, he needed to explain his reasoning to his leader. ''Tsunade-Sama, I understand your concern, but I think that letting the girl accompany us is safer than leaving her here.'' Said Kakashi.

Tsunade raised an eyebrow in wonder. ''What do you mean by that? I fail to see the logic behind that statement.''

''Naruto seems to be a good influence on the girl. I strongly believe that allowing the two of them to spend time together actually helps us keep her under control. So far, it looks like she really cares about her friendship with Naruto. By being around him I think that she is less likely to try something against Konoha.'' Explained Kakashi. He wasn't an elite ninja for nothing, he wouldn't have come so far in his career as a Shinobi if he didn't know how to read people and look underneath the underneath. And the girl seemed loyal to the ones she considered comrades. So Kakashi had full confidence that the girl wouldn't put them at risk if it meant betraying Naruto's trust.

''I see, I can certainly understand the point you are trying to make.'' Said Tsunade before she gave a sigh once again, it just seemed to be turning into a habit whenever she dealt with Team Seven. ''Well, nothing to be done about it now. I already gave you full permission to bring the girl if you couldn't find another member, so all that's left is to trust that your deductions are right.''

''I'll keep an eye out just in case, but I still think that things will go smoothly.'' Said Kakashi.

''Good. Now that we cleared that up, I have another task for you.'' Informed the Hokage.

Kakashi slightly tilted his head to the side, questioning what else could the Hokage want from him. ''Hmmm? And what would that task be, Tsunade-Sama?''

''As you know, I still have some matters to take care of regarding Iwa. I have arranged a meeting with Ohnoki at Kannabi outpost a few days from now.'' Said the Sannin.

''A meeting with the Tsuchikage at Kannabi outpost? I haven't heard anything about it until now.'' Said the surprised copy ninja.

''That's no accident. I have been keeping this as a secret to avoid creating panic within the village. If our people heard that I'm going to be meeting with the Tsuchikage they might think that war is on the horizon.'' Said Tsunade.

''So, I take it, and I hope, that it really isn't?'' Inquired Kakashi.

''That's up to Ohnoki'' Responded Tsunade gravely, which only created a tense silence in the room for a few seconds.''Anyhow, what I'm trying to say is that I don't want people to know about this meeting, so I will be going there discreetly without anyone knowing about it.''

''And how do you plan to do that, Hokage-Sama?'' Asked the Sharingan user. He was sure that if the Hokage left for a few days, people would start wondering why their leader was missing.

''That's where you come in'' Said Tsunade before she pulled a weird looking Kunai from her drawer. The Kunai had three blades instead of one and the handle was marked with a seal.

Kakashi widened his lone visible eye when he saw that particular weapon. ''That's the Yondaime's Kunai!'' He would never forget the signature weapon of his Sensei.

''Correct. I need you to take this Kunai and place it somewhere nearby of Kannabi outpost. As you know, my personal guards know the Hiraijin no Jutsu(Flying Thunder Formation Technique) Which will come in handy to getting there without anyone noticing I left'' Explained the Hokage. She was actually planning on sending shadow clones anyway, so she didn't have to worry about the way back. Her clone would just need to dispel and she would know everything that happened there. It was pretty convenient for her that Team Seven was going to travel so close to Kannabi outpost, now she would not need to send an extra team just to mark the place.

''So, to state the obvious, I should not say anything about this to anyone?'' Asked Kakashi.

''That's right. And if the girl does end up going with your team you'll have to be extra careful. We don't want her knowing that her grandfather will be meeting with me.'' Said the Hokage. ''The completion of this task is of utmost importance as you might imagine. But I trust that you will see to it that it gets done.''

''Of course, Hokage-Sama. You can leave this to me.'' Said Kakashi with resolution as he grabbed the Kunai from the desk.

''Then that's all for now. You are dismissed, Kakashi.'' Said Tsunade.

The copy ninja gave a small bow before he left the office with the intent to relax for the rest of the day. He didn't want to think that they may be going to war with Iwa in the immediate future, but there was nothing he could do about it but try to clear his mind of any tension.

-Konoha's streets-

''So, any idea on which one of your friends you want to ask first?'' Said Kurotsuchi to Naruto who was currently walking beside her through the marketplace with Yugao right behind them.

''I guess whoever we find first.'' Said Naruto. ''We could always just tell Tsunade-Baachan that we didn't find anyone and you can come with us instead.'' Suggested the blond.

''Oh no you won't!'' Said Yugao in anger. ''You are going to do what Hokage-Sama told you to do and put some effort into finding another teammate for your mission and if I have to stay with you until then that's exactly what I'll do!'' Yugao's outburst made Naruto and Kurotsuchi flinch at the unexpected reaction of the woman.

Yugao had been keeping watch over Kurotsuchi when Naruto arrived at the girl's apartment to tell her about what he discussed with the Hokage. And after Naruto explained everything, Yugao practically dragged them both out of the apartment to make the blond look for an extra member for the team. Yugao knew that if the girl went with Team Seven the Hokage would more than likely send Yugao again to keep an eye on Kurotsuchi, and the ANBU woman was already tired of being a glorified babysitter; she had been doing that for days already for God's sake! Some rest would be nice and she was going to ensure that both teenagers really went looking for members, damn it!

''Okay okay, I get it! I'll keep looking!'' Said Naruto in appeasement.

''Someone is bound to show up sooner or later, I don't see the rush, to be honest.'' Said Kurotsuchi as she put her hands behind her head in a relaxed manner which earned her a glare from the ANBU.

''You aren't taking this search seriously enough just so you can go with Naruto instead.'' Accused the purple-haired woman with crossed arms.

''You can't prove that.'' Said Kurotsuchi with a sly smirk. It wasn't like she was dying to go or anything, but being away on a mission with her blond friend was better than being stuck in Konoha with nothing better to do but to put up with people that hated her. Additionally, she really needed to keep her skills sharp if the past mission was any indication.

Yugao was about to answer the girl but her rebuttal was cut short when someone else approached the group with a greeting.

''Hey there, Naruto! What's up? I was wondering when we would see you again!'' Said Kiba Inuzuka just as he approached the group along with Shino at his side.

''Kiba? And Shino too? How are you guys?!'' Said Naruto with a bright smile.

Yugao sighed with relief at finally finding some of Naruto's friends while Kurotsuchi just looked at the duo with a disinterested face.

''Where the hell have you been? We haven't seen you since the day we brought you back'' Said Kiba.

''Sorry guys. It's been crazy lately and there are a lot of things that I have been taking care of.'' Said Naruto as he scratched his cheek.

''We heard about that. We know that you helped save the Kazekage.'' Said the ever stoic Shino.

''Yea, man. I can't believe that you just got back and you are already doing such important missions. I can't help but be envious.'' Said Kiba.

''It's just like you to get involved in those kinds of things, Naruto.'' Added Shino.

''Well, I couldn't just stand by while Gaara was in trouble. You know me.'' Said Naruto with a grin.

''Eh, you are right. But maybe next time you can bring us along with you. We could really use something intense for a change.'' Said the Inuzuka.

''I agree. I could be a great asset to the team.'' Said Shino with an unusual harsh edge in his voice.

Naruto smiled tensely. It appeared that the Aburame was still trying to prove himself to Naruto ever since he missed going on the mission to retrieve Sasuke three years ago. Shino may be quiet, but he sure was stubborn. ''I'll keep it in mind.''

However, Kiba finally noticed the Iwa Kunoichi standing behind Naruto. ''Hey, I know you. You are the Iwa girl that we brought back at that time! The one that attacked Naruto!'' Said Kiba as he pointed at the tomboy with an irritated look.

Kurotsuchi just rolled her eyes and groaned in exasperation. ''Here we go again.'' Thought the Kunoichi. ''Oh yes, that's me. I'll also have you know that I eat newborn babies, pray to my dark god every night, and I'm the worst demon since the tailed beasts.'' Kurotsuchi said with sarcasm. ''Keep your temper to yourself, dog boy. You aren't the first or the last dunce to come pointing fingers at me for that.''

The comment just made Kiba angrier, though. ''Wha-What?! The nerve you have to talk to me like that when you and your friends are the ones to blame!''

''That was a mission, so I had no choice. That's in the past, now I'm friends with Naruto.'' Said the pink-eyed girl.

It was then that Naruto finally intervened. ''Easy there, Kiba. She is right, Kurotsuchi is my friend now.''

''You gotta be kidding me, dude.'' Said Kiba, not understanding how Naruto could be so forgiving.

''Just drop it, Kiba.'' Said Shino as calmly as ever. ''If even Naruto doesn't mind her, then I don't think it is our place to judge.''

''He is our friend, of course it is our place! She almost killed him!'' Insisted the Inuzuka.

''Ahem! Naruto, aren't you forgetting to ask your friends something?'' Reminded Yugao before they strayed even more from their original assignment.

Naruto nodded at the ANBU, deciding that going back to their initial purpose was a better alternative than having Team Eight arguing over Kurotsuchi. ''Hey guys, putting aside that for now, I actually had something to ask of you.''

At least that seemed to distract Kiba from picking a fight with Kurotsuchi, and the feral boy focused his attention on Naruto once more. ''Uh? You wanted something from us? Okay, what is it?''

''Well, you see, my team is about to go on a mission and we need one more member. So I was wondering if any of you guys would be up for it?'' Asked the Jinchuuriki.

''I'm sorry Naruto, but Hinata, Kiba, and I will be going on a mission with Kurenai-Sensei. I'm afraid we are rather unavailable at the moment.'' Said the stoic Shino.

''Shino, you are always complaining that we never bring you to our missions, and when I do ask you to come you refuse.'' Naruto pointed out with a deadpan look.

''He is not wrong.''Kiba pointed out to the bug user.

That actually made Shino pause to think about it, apparently somewhat annoyed that what Naruto said was true.

''By the way Naruto, who is the lady? A friend of yours?'' Asked Kiba sheepishly as he looked at Yugao and she raised an eyebrow at the Inuzuka's sudden attention in her.

''Who, Yugao?'' Said the Genin as he looked over to the ANBU.

''I don't see any other ladies around.'' Replied Kiba with a snide smirk which secured him a cold glare from Kurotsuchi. ''Anyway, Inuzuka Kiba. A pleasure to meet you, miss.''

''Aburame Shino. Glad to make your acquaintance.'' Added Shino politely to keep proper etiquette.

''Uzuki Yugao. Pleased to meet you.'' Said the purple-haired woman, feeling a bit uncomfortable at earning the interest of a teenager.

Then, Kiba put an arm around Naruto's shoulders and dragged him a few feet away from the group to talk to him in a low voice. ''Naruto, you bastard. How the hell do you know such a pretty chick like her?''

''She is one of Kurotsuchi's ANBU guards, so she is by her side most of the time.'' Explained Naruto with a curious look. ''And what's with that attitude all of a sudden?''

However, Kiba just ignored the blond's question. ''Man, Now I'm jealous for real right now! I'm always with Hinata and Shino, so I never get to meet such hot girls!'' Complained the feral boy.

''And speaking of which, where is Hinata?'' Asked Naruto at the mention of the shy girl, remembering that he hadn't seen the Hyuga heiress in a while.

''Now that you mention it, she was here with us just before we approached you. I wonder where she went off to.'' Said Kiba as he glanced around the street.

Meanwhile, just around the corner of one of the nearby buildings, said Hyuga had her back nervously pressed against the wall. ''You can do it, Hinata! You already saw Naruto-Kun the other day. There is no need to be so embarrassed in meeting up with him. But what am I going to say to him? What if I stutter or say something stupid? Or both?!'' The shy girl tormented herself mentally, trying to make up her mind to go and talk to the object of her affections.

''Here you are Hinata, I found you!'' The abrupt appearance of Naruto's face just a few inches away from Hinata's made the girl give a surprised screech and headbutted the blond due to her shock.

''There you are, Hinata! I didn't even notice when you left.'' Said Kiba as he approached the Hyuga along with Shino, Kurotuchi, and Yugao.

''Oww, it hurts it hurts!'' Complained Naruto as he rubbed the bridge of his bleeding nose.

''Naruto, are you all right?!'' Asked Kurotsuchi before she looked at Hinata fiercely. ''What's wrong with you? Be more careful!''

''I'm sorry!'' Said Hinata in panic.

''Hey, don't talk to Hinata like that! Is not her fault that Naruto appeared out of nowhere and frightened her!'' Said Kiba, defending his teammate.

''She is a ninja, isn't she? What kind of Kunoichi reacts like that?'' Said the tomboy.

Before Kiba escalated the argument, Naruto decided to get between the duo. ''Don't worry, Kurotsuchi, I'm fine. Hinata didn't mean to do that'' Reassured Naruto as he put an arm around Hinata's shoulders, not unlike how Kiba had done with him just a few minutes earlier. ''See? No harm done!''

However, that action made Hinata widen her eyes in shock and her face went bright red. ''Na-Naruto-Kun is holding me!'' That was Hinata's last thought before her mind went blank and she fainted, falling to the ground with a thud.

''Hinata, what's wrong?!'' Asked Naruto.

''Damn it! Not again!'' Said Kiba. ''This is your fault, Naruto!''

''Me?! What did I do?!'' Said the blond.

''This always happens whenever you are around!'' Accused the Inuzuka.

''But I never do anything!'' Added the Jinchuuriki.

Meanwhile, Kurotsuchi and Yugao looked at the scene with puzzled expressions while Shino just stayed silent, as he was already used to this.

-Iwagakure no Sato-

Kitsuchi was on his way to meet with his father and was currently going up the stairs to the Tsuchikage Tower, as he had been informed to go immediately. Apparently, whatever the issue was had to be of the highest urgency. He and Ohnoki barely talked to each other after what happened in the mission to capture the Kyuubi. For his father to call him like this despite knowing that Kitsuchi didn't want anything to do with him right now had to mean that this was way more important than their current dispute.

Kitsuchi knocked on the door of the Tsuchikage's office, and after a moment, he got permission to enter and he walked towards his father, stopping just before his desk.

''You wanted to see me, Tsuchikage-Sama?'' Asked Kitsuchi with formality, avoiding referring to his father in the casual manner he usually did.

''I did.'' Said Ohnoki with a scowl. He really would have hoped that Kitsuchi would talk to him again like he used to. The Tsuchikage already knew that his bad decisions not only cost him both of their Jincuuriki but also several lives of Iwa's citizens. They had thought that Kurotsuchi was among the loses but it looked like the girl still had a chance, and that was the reason that Ohnoki called Kitsuchi in the first place. ''A letter arrived from Konoha.''

''Really? Did they say what they are going to do about the attempt on their Jinchuuriki?'' Asked Kitsuchi.

''More than just that. Here, you have to read it for yourself'' Said the Tsuchikage as he handed his son a folded sheet of paper.

Kitsuchi didn't waste any time and took the letter from the small man and proceeded to read it in silence, and as he did so, his emotions shifted from confusion to alarm, and finally, to hopefulness. ''I can't believe it! Kurotsuchi is alive! She is in Konoha but she is alive!'' Said the man in relief, he hadn't heard anything about his daughter in a long time, they had thought her to be dead. If the possibility to see Kurotsuchi again was there, as a parent it filled him with hope.

''Don't get your expectations up just yet. this could be a trap for all we know'' Said Ohnoki sternly.

''They want to meet with you to negotiate Kurotsuchi's safety in exchange for compensation. I'm sure that they will bring proof of her wellbeing if they want us to take them seriously'' Said Kitsuchi.

''Even if what they say is true, maybe she is as good as dead. Who knows what kind of treatment she has endured so far while in their care. She might be broken beyond help at this point'' Said the Tsuchikage coldly. He didn't want to think about his granddaughter in such a state, but he was a leader and had to think about this logically, he couldn't just let his emotions dictate his actions.

''Don't you say that!'' Said Kitsuchi with a finger pointed at the small man. ''You got us into this mess, so now we have to get her out of it!''

''Don't talk to me like that'' Warned the old man. ''And you know we can't trust Konoha. They must be itching to get revenge on us. If we don't treat this carefully we might make the situation even worse''

''It can't be worse than it already is. But Kurotsuchi is alive! I don't know if we can't trust that they haven't abused her in any way, but I just want to get her back!'' Said the Jounin.

Ohnoki could see the desperation in his son's eyes, and he had to admit that he felt the same way even if he wanted to keep a clear head. Ohnoki sighed in resignation, it seemed that he would have to take a risk. ''They want to meet us at Kannabi outpost. I didn't trust in going at first, but I concede that we shall find out in they truly have Kurotsuchi with them.''

''In that case, I'll be going with you!'' Said Kitsuchi with determination.

''Don't be so hasty. We aren't going in person. We will get close enough and then send clones in our stead. If I have to guess that's what they will do too.'' Concluded the old Kage.

''I guess we have no choice in the matter if Kurotsuchi's safety is concerned.'' Said Kitsuchi. ''I just hope that she is being treated fairly''

-Konoha's Streets-

Kurotsuchi munched on a stick of dango as she once again roamed the street with Naruto and Yugao in tow. Their encounter with Team Eight proved to be fruitless so that only left them to find some other team willing to lend one of its members.

''I can't believe we haven't managed to find anyone yet'' Lamented the ANBU.

''At least I hope that the next ones we find don't make a scene like that'' Added Kurotsuchi as she took another bite of her food. ''And how is your nose, Naruto? did it stop bleeding?''

''Yeah, a while ago actually. Told you it wasn't a big deal.'' Said the blond.

''You have such weird friends. A headbutt, really? What kind of greeting is that? Even if you surprised her that's no excuse.'' Said the tomboy, still annoyed.

''Hey don't be too hard on Hinata. She is one of the nicest people I know'' Said the Jinchuuriki. ''She just tends to be a bit weird from time to time it's all. For example, she never looks at me in the eye despite being very kind when we talk. And I think she is very sickly too. Whenever I see her she is always red in the face and faints every time I get too close. But as I said, She is always very kind to me even with all her odd quirks.'' However, he stopped rambling when he noticed that both females had ceased walking and were giving him stares of disbelief.

''You gotta be kidding me! No one can possibly be this dense!'' Thought Kurotsuchi as she kept looking at her friend with a deadpan expression.

''Oh my God! This kid! Not even Hayate was this bad!'' Reflected Yugao as she mirrored the face of the younger Kunoichi.

''What?'' Asked the puzzled Naruto as he too halted to look at them intently.

''Your idiocy still finds ways to surprise me'' Said Kurotsuchi.

''I can't disagree with her this time'' Added the purple-haired woman.

''What's that supposed to mean?! What did I say now?'' Said the confused boy.

''Forget it'' Said both girls in unison as they resumed their walk, deciding that Naruto was a lost cause.

''You can't just say something like that out of nowhere and leave me hanging! Hey!'' Said Naruto as he started chasing after them but to no avail, since they completely dropped the topic.

After that, they didn't take long to run into someone else.

''Aren't those your friends?'' Said Kurotsuchi as she spotted the familiar figures of Team Ten walking towards them.

''You are right! Hey Shikamaru, Ino, Chouji, how are you guys?!'' Said the Jinchuuriki as he approached his friends along with his two female companions.

''Look, if it isn't Naruto and Kurotsuchi! Hello there!'' Replied Ino with a smirk, noticing the group right away.

''Good to see you again. It's been a while.'' Replied Chouji, eating from a bag of chips as always.

''Yo'' Shikamaru greeted them with a lazy salute.

''What have you two been up to? We haven't seen you since the day we ate together.'' Said Ino.

''A lot of things, really. I'll tell you later, right now I wanted to ask you guys something.'' Said Naruto.

''We are looking for an extra member for Naruto's team. He is going on a mission and he needs one more person'' Said Kurotsuchi.

''I see'' Said Shikamaru. ''Sorry, but I have to sort some paperwork for the Chunin exams.''

''Yea, and Chouji and I have a mission with Asuma-Sensei. I wish I could do something about it.'' Said Ino apologetically.

''I dunno, I think that we could ask Asuma-Sensei to let us help. It just doesn't feel right to deny a request for help from Naruto.'' Said Chouji with a friendly grin.

''He is not going to agree. Without me helping you the team is already short a member. He is not going to make the unit even smaller.'' Reasoned Shikamaru.

''Well, that's a shame.'' Said Naruto, but despite what he said he didn't seem that bothered by it. ''Don't sweat it, is no big deal. I'll just find someone else.''

''As I said, we are sorry.'' Said the shadow user before he looked at Yugao. ''Also, is good to see you, Yugao-San.''

''I can say the same to you, Nara.'' Said the woman cordially despite feeling depressed that they failed yet again to get another member.

''You know each other?'' Asked Kurotsuchi.

''Yea, I'm always helping with stuff like the Chunin exams and the like. Sometimes I have to work with the ANBU to organize the security.'' Explained Shikamaru.

''Anyway, why don't you guys join us for a while? We have some free time before our mission and we were planning on grabbing a bite. We could use the company.'' Suggested the Yamanaka.

''That sounds like a great- Uff.'' Naruto was interrupted when Yugao smacked him on his side with her elbow.

''Actually, we have to keep get back to our job, Isn't that right, you two?'' Said the purple-haired woman to Naruto and Kurotsuchi, but despite sounding friendly both teenagers picked on the dangerous undertone of her voice, daring them to say otherwise.

''Y-Yea, I think we should better get on our way.'' Said Kurotsuchi with an uneasy smile. It was still strange for her to see the normal calm ANBU be so adamant to the point of being aggressive. It showed that Yugao really wanted to get another member for the mission.

''Awww, that's too bad.'' Said Ino in disappointment. ''In that case, I think we too should go. I'm starving right now and I don't want to leave for our mission without eating anything first.''

''That's right. I can't perform at my best with an empty stomach either.'' Said the Akimichi, never letting a chance to eat get away.

''And I'll go back to working on that paperwork.'' Added Shikamaru. ''So, I'll see you all later.'' Finished the shadow user with a wave before he turned to leave.

''Come, Chouji. Bye guys, I'll talk with you another time!'' Said Ino as she also left.

''See ya.'' Replied the plump boy as he followed his female teammate.

As soon as Team Ten left the immediate vicinity, Yugao slumped her shoulders in defeat and exasperation. ''There goes another team that can't spare a member'' Lamented the woman.

''Nothing to be done about it. If they can't help that's just how things are.'' Said Kurotsuchi.

That only left another person to find: Gai. But Despite looking for the man and his team they couldn't find them anywhere. They couldn't even find the Taijutsu user in the training grounds.

they guessed that Gai probably requested another mission already. Knowing the eccentric man he most likely didn't waste any time into going right away for another activity to do. Or maybe he had gone out of the village for some special training regime? With Gai, you could never be sure.

''Okay, I give up'' Said a worn Kurotsuchi. ''I think we should stop for today.

''And it's getting late.'' Said Naruto as he looked at the setting sun that had already started to be covered by the cliffs ''I think we better continue tomorrow.''

''Yugao, where are you going?'' Said Kurotsuchi once she noticed the purple-haired woman walking away.

''I'm going home to rest. Just as Naruto said, it's getting late and I'm tired.'' Answered the ANBU before she resumed walking. ''Also, I don't think I will be able to help you look for members tomorrow. Just letting you know.'' She had pretty much just resigned herself to the idea that she would have to go with them on their mission. So with that in mind, she might as well use her remaining free time to rest. Her ANBU comrades could watch over the tomboy just fine by themselves.

''What's up with her? I still don't understand why she cares about this so much.'' Naruto asked the Iwa Kunoichi.

''Who knows'' Said Kurotsuchi.

''So, you want to grab something to eat? We have not eaten since breakfast.'' Suggested Naruto.

Kurotsuchi bit her lip as she thought about it. They might as well, last time they tried going out to eat together they were interrupted by Konohamaru but the idea still seemed appealing. ''Sure, why not?''

''Great! Come, I never got a chance to show you Ichiraku!'' Said the blond as he picked up the pace and started walking in the direction of his favorite restaurant as Kurotsuchi followed him.

In just a few minutes they arrived at Ichiraku, and Naruto could see that both Teuchi and Ayame were in the ramen stand, not surprising since it was still early for Ayame to go home.

''What's up old man! Hi, Ayame!'' Greeted Naruto as soon as he entered the small restaurant accompanied by Kurotsuchi.

''I was wondering when our favorite customer would show up!'' Said Teuchi with a smile.

''Good to see you, Naruto! I barely see you anymore since you came back from your training trip!'' Said Ayame. She was a fair-skinned girl with long brown hair and dark eyes. She was wearing a white robe, jut like her father, and had a white cloth that she used to keep her hair in place.

''You know how it is, Ayame-Nee. Now my great ninja skills are always in need and I barely have much time to do anything else.'' Boasted Naruto.

''I don't doubt it. And I see you brought a new friend!'' Said Ayame when she noticed Kurotsuchi.

Ayame's observation caught the attention of Teuchi and he didn't miss a beat in welcoming the girl personally. ''A newcomer! Welcome to Ichiraku, miss! I do believe we haven't seen you around here before.'' Said the man before he noticed the Iwa headband on the girl's forehead.

Kurotsuchi noticed the man looking at her headband for a moment with his head tilted in confusion, but that only lasted a few seconds and the ramen chef gave her a grin once more.

''So, what can I get you?'' Asked the man.

''I want an order of miso ramen!'' Said Naruto with eagerness.

''I'll have the same. He is the ramen expert after all.'' Said Kurotsuchi.

''Two orders of miso ramen coming right up!'' Said Teuchi as he and Ayame went into the kitchen.

''I'm sure you'll agree with me that this is the best ramen ever. Just wait 'till you try it'' Said Naruto to the pink-eyed girl as they both took a seat at the counter.

''It does smell nice. And the place is not bad.'' Said the girl as she looked around the small restaurant. It was a humble place, but it had a homely feel to it. It was nice.

''You better believe it! I've eaten here since I was little and I still have yet to taste a better ramen!'' Declared the blond.

''No kidding? You actually know this place from that long long ago?'' Asked Kurotsuchi.

''Yep, even before I even entered the academy. This was the first place willing to sell me anything, actually.'' Said Naruto with a reminiscing look.

''What do you mean by 'willing'?'' Said the tomboy with a raised eyebrow.

''Umm, you see, because of the...the you know what...'' Said the blond as he brought a hand to the seal on his stomach. ''Because of it most people never sold me stuff as a kid. Old man Teuchi was the first person to treat me like any other customer despite everything.'' Explained the Jinchuuriki as he remembered those lonely days.

A look of realization hit Kurotsuchi. She had forgotten for a moment how disliked Naruto was among the Konoha citizens, of course it wouldn't have been better when he had been a child. It now made sense why Naruto liked this place so much. Also, that might explain why Teuchi didn't seem to care too much even when he clearly noticed she was from Iwa. The man was obviously very open-minded, so it wasn't that strange that he didn't mind that she was from an enemy nation.

''There you go!'' Teuchi interrupted them when he put two bowls of ramen in front of them. ''Two bowls of miso ramen. I hope you enjoy them!''

''Thanks, old man!'' Said Naruto with a smile as he grabbed his chopsticks. ''Itadakimasu!'' And with that, the blond started digging into his meal at lightning speed.

Kurotsuchi could only stare in amazement at the pace in which Naruto devoured the bowl. ''Do you even savor it by any chance?''

''You bet!'' Responded the Jinchuuriki as he finished swallowing the remaining soup with a content sigh. ''Another serving, please!''

''Already on it'' Responded Teuchi before he brought yet another bowl. He was already used to Naruto's way of eating, he pretty much could already tell when the boy would want more, which was most of the time.

Kurotsuchi couldn't believe it, Naruto was already starting his second bowl and she had yet to eat any of hers. Finally, she turned to her own meal and brought some of the noodles to her mouth. She widened her eyes momentarily at the taste. ''Naruto, you were right for once. This is really good.'' Said the tomboy before she hastily started eating the rest.

''Told ya!'' Responded the boy with a wide smirk, happy to see that the girl was enjoying herself.

''I'm always delighted to see a new customer satisfied!'' Said Teuchi.

By the time both teenagers finished, Kurotsuchi had eaten two bowls but was nothing compared to the dozen bowls Naruto ate.

''I'm full. I can't believe how much ramen you can eat, Naruto.'' Said the girl.

''Uh? I thought I moderated myself well.'' Said Naruto which gained him an odd look from the pink-eyed girl.

''Excuse me, miss, I forgot I hadn't introduced myself. I'm Ayame, pleased to meet you.'' Said the civilian girl to the Kunoichi.

Kurotsuchi was a bit taken back by the question as she didn't expect the older girl to try and start a conversation with her. ''I'm Kurotsuchi. Pleased to meet you too.''

''You aren't from around here, are you?'' Asked Ayame, taking the opportunity to try and learn more from Naruto's new female friend. She was happy that the boy was starting to show some more interest in other girls besides Sakura, or at least Ayame hoped he did.

Kurotsuchi looked inquisitively at the curious girl. That question came out of nowhere, but she supposed that if she knew Naruto since they were kids she ought to see the blond as family and would want to know more about the new friends he made. ''I'm from Iwa.''

''Iwa, uh? Interesting, I have never met anyone from there.'' Said Ayame with a reflective look. She knew that Iwa and Konoha didn't get along, but if Kurotsuchi was Naruto's friend that was enough for Ayame to not think about it too much. Rather, she directed her attention to Naruto and looked at him with a foxy grin. ''Naruto, I didn't know you had turned into a lady killer. When were you going to tell me you got a girlfriend?'' Ayame could not resist teasing Naruto about this.

''Wha-what?! We aren't- I mean we are just- I mean...''Naruto got flustered and tried to explain to Ayame that they were just friends, but he couldn't articulate a proper sentence due to his nervousness.

Kurotsuchi blushed a little at hearing the older girl say something like that, but she found amusing the way that Naruto mumbled like a fool in his predicament, so instead of making a scene over this, she decided to play along. ''Honey, that's terrible! Why haven't you let everyone know about us?! Don't you love your girlfriend?'' Said Kurotsuchi with a grin and a wink as she put her arm around Naruto and put her cheek on his own.

Naruto's face got even redder at the bold action of the girl next to him, and in his stupor, he went completely mute. This only made Kurotsuchi's mischievous grin get even larger.

''Naruto, your face is as red as a tomato!'' Said Ayame as she laughed in her palm.

''Girls please stop teasing the poor boy. I think he is going to pass out at this rate.'' Said Teuchi who also smiled at their antics.

Naruto decided that it was best to leave for now or they might continue tormenting him. ''I think we'll be going now! Thanks for the ramen old man!'' Said Naruto as he paid the tab before quickly leaving the place with a still laughing Kurotsuchi

''See you later and thanks for coming!'' Said Ayame with a wave of her arm as the teenagers left.

Even on the street, Kurotsuchi was still teasing the Jinchuuriki. ''Hahaha! You should have seen your face!''

''You are both evil'' Said Naruto with crossed arms.

''That's not a nice thing to say to your girlfriend, Naruto.'' Said Kurotsuchi between giggles.

Naruto looked at the laughing girl with an expression that left clear that he wasn't amused by this. Girls always got a kick of making him uncomfortable. Kurotsuchi as his girlfriend? That was ridiculous, they were friends! Also, there was no way that the Iwa prodigy would like him in that way. But now that he thought about it, the idea wasn't that unappealing. She wasn't ugly or anything, in fact, he thought her eyes were really pretty, her laugh was kinda cute, she was smart, and...''Bad thoughts'' He shook his head again to get rid of that particular train of thought. They were friends and that was it! This was the second time he found himself thinking such things, so he wondered what was going on.

Kurotsuchi frowned with perplexity when she saw the blond shaking his head and making weird faces. ''What are you doing?''

Naruto looked at the girl with wide eyes, for a moment he had forgotten that she was standing just beside him. ''Sorry, I was spacing out.''

''You seem to be doing that a lot lately. More than usual at least'' The girl pointed out.

''I know. I wish I knew why'' Said the Jinchuuriki without a clue.

Kurotsuchi raised an eyebrow at the blond's odd behavior, but she decided to drop the topic. ''Sooo, what you wanna do now? Is not that late yet so we could still do something else. Unless you have other things to do that is.'' Said Kurotsuchi.

Naruto pondered on that for a bit. A distraction to clear his head would be nice. After a moment, he perked up when an idea came to mind. ''I know a good place! Come!'' Said the boy before he grabbed Kurotsuchi's arm in excitement to drag her away with him.

Kurotsuchi was momentarily stunned by the action but she let herself be dragged nevertheless. She didn't want to ruin Naruto's enthusiasm. And besides, She didn't mind his touch, and in a way, their closeness was comforting.

After a few minutes, she started to wonder where Naruto was taking her since they were already on a remote cliff with stairs that seemed to go to the top of the Hokage mountain.

''Naruto, where exactly are we going?'' Kurotsuchi decided to ask at last.

''To my favorite place in the whole village! To the top of the Hokage faces! On top of the Yondaime to be precise. The view of the village is pretty nice from up there.'' Said Naruto as he happily continued to drag Kurotsuchi by the arm, when suddenly the girl refused to move anymore. Startled, Naruto looked back at the tomboy to ask what the problem was, but he didn't get a chance to do so.

''Not going.'' Said Kurotsuchi simply.

''Uh? Why not? I promise the view is nice, trust me.'' Insisted the blond.

''I'm not going anywhere close to anything related to that man. That includes the monument in his honor.'' Said the tomboy with a frown.

''What do you mean by that? The Yondaime was awesome! He was the best ninja ever.'' Said Naruto. he almost looked offended at the disrespect to his idol.

''Awesome?! He was a miserable piece of shit!'' Said the Kunoichi as her pink eyes glinted with anger.

''Take that back! He was the strongest and kindest Hokage ever!'' Said Naruto now getting angry too.

''Kind my ass, he was a murderer! A butcher!'' Kurotsuchi shot back.

''He was a hero!'' Said a heated Naruto.

''He killed my mother!'' Said Kurotsuchi.

Now that made Naruto go quiet as he stared agape at the girl before him. He hadn't known that piece of information. She already told him that her mom was killed by Konoha ninja, but he didn't know that the Yondaime was the one who had done it. ''But everyone loves the Yondaime.''

Kurotsuchi snorted at that. ''In Konoha maybe. He massacred hundreds of our ninja in cold blood, my mother included.'' She waited to see if Naruto had anything to say about it, but he just seemed to be troubled and deep in thought, so she just continued. ''In the last war, there was no man more hated and feared in Iwa than your Yondaime. He was almost like the boogeyman back then.''

''I-I didn't know any of that.'' Said Naruto with melancholy. ''We always praised the Yondaime as one of the best. I never expected him to do something like that.''

''Of course you Konoha assholes would praise him. Iwa's misfortunes are Konoha's gain.'' Said Kurotsuchi coldly.

Naruto didn't know what to think, he simply couldn't believe just like that that his idol had done such terrible things. ''Are you sure he is the one that did that to your mom?'' Said the Jinchuuriki trying to find any reason to think that his favorite Hokage didn't really do such awful acts, but his question just enraged Kurotsuchi further.

The Kunoichi's eyes lit up in fury as she grabbed Naruto by the collar of his jacket and looked at him straight in the eye. ''I'm pretty sure I would know something as important as that, moron! There is no one I hate more than that prick and I've always thought that is a shame that his death wasn't more painful that it was!''

''Is just that I still find it hard to believe how the Yondaime could have been that bad.'' Said Naruto stubbornly even as Kurotsuchi tightened her grip on him.

''Ho-how dare you...'' Kurotsuchi had been about to punch Naruto in the gut for the insensible comment when an ANBU let his presence be known to the girl as he peeked at her from a nearby tree with his hand on the scabbard of his blade.

Kurotsuchi huffed in annoyance. Nowadays she was so used to the ANBU following her that she often forgot that they were even there. So she just settled for pushing Naruto off of her before shooting him a glare. ''Go fuck yourself then! And forget about me going with you on your mission, I'm done talking to you, dumbass!'' Finished the girl before she turned around and rushed towards the village once again.

''Kurotsuchi, wait!'' Naruto called out to the girl in vain as she left him there alone. ''I just wanted to apologize'' whispered Naruto to himself. He had screwed up. Now it seemed that he made Kurotsuchi angry, for real this time. Just when he thought they had made real progress in their relationship he had to say something like that.

With all that had happened, Naruto decided to head home and call it a day; and the evening had been going so well too...

Kurotsuchi walked furiously through the streets of Konoha. The nerve of Naruto to try and defend the Yondaime, and after learning of what he did to her mother no less. He better not approach her in the immediate future or he would regret it. The girl didn't know what time it was, but judging by the barren street she guessed that it had to be late. However, she soon noticed that she wasn't as alone as she had thought.

She saw a young man standing at the end of the street, facing her. He had short, straight black hair, and pale skin. he was wearing black pants and a gray midriff shirt with a short black jacket that left his abdomen completely bare. On his back, he had what appeared to be a backpack and a Tanto. He had his eyes squinted as he gave her a creepy emotionless smile. It really wasn't the most comforting thing to see at the end of a dark street.

As the boy just stood there staring towards Kurotsuchi's direction, the girl concluded that he had to be looking at her since there was no one else at this hour. ''What the hell are you looking at, faggot?!'' Right now she wasn't in the mood to be dealing with eerie weirdos.

At first, the young man didn't say or did anything, but after a few seconds, he started to walk slowly towards her, all the while as he kept his smile. ''Greetings. I was looking for Naruto. I didn't expect to find his pet instead.''

''What did you just call me?'' Said Kurotsuchi with narrowed eyes.

''A pet'' He answered back plainly, seemingly not intimidated at all by her chilly glare.

''Do you have a death wish, asshole?'' Asked Kurotsuchi.

''What did I say? I don't believe I said anything incorrect, did I?'' Said the pale boy, for the first time changing his expression to reflect confusion. ''I heard that he takes care of you. Pays for your food, your clothes, your living space, and takes complete responsibility for you. Not to mention that you are a prisoner, which in everyone's eyes is no better than an animal. If that isn't a pet I don't know what it is.'' By the time he finished talking he had stopped just a few meters in front of Kurotsuchi.

It was taking said girl all her will power to not throw herself at the fucker and tear him to shreds in the most painful way possible. But she knew that as much as she would love to do that, it would be futile to try. Even if the streets looked empty she knew that the ANBU never left her alone. So she had no choice but to put up with the weirdo for as long as she could muster. ''What we do is not your business.'' Said the girl through clenched teeth. Being reminded that she was a liability to Naruto just made it harder to keep herself in check. Not to mention that having this guy mock her lack of independence hurt her ego.

''He is a fellow Konoha Shinobi who is interacting on a daily basis with a potential enemy. I think that it is my business to care about it'' Said the odd boy. ''I don't envy Naruto. Having to take hours of his time every single day to spend with an ugly girl like you. Actually, I feel bad for all the people that have to put up with you, how miserable you must make them all, having to act nice to you just so you can feel like you fit in with us''

Kurotsuchi was shaking in rage as she stared at the boy with hatred. She had to contain herself, she had to. She didn't need to be reminded of how alone she was here. She had made some friends, but could she say with certainty that all of them were friends out of their own free will? Or were they putting up with her just to not make things more difficult for Naruto?

She didn't want to hear more of this and tried to walk away from the freak, but he blocked her path, making it clear that he wasn't going to let her get away just like that.

''But on a second thought, I guess that idiot Naruto got himself into this mess to begin with.'' The pale boy continued to provoke her, talking as if he hadn't just cut her path. ''I heard he was the one that helped you to avoid a sentence. I can't imagine any logical explanation on why he would do something like that even when you are a burden for him. The only possibility left is that he is a moron, or that he had something to gain from that''

Kurotsuchi didn't know how much she could continue listening to this asswipe without losing her temper. But he did raise a point that she had never paid much mind until now: That Naruto helped her with her sentence when he didn't have anything to gain from it. They hadn't been friends yet, so she wondered if this guy was insinuating that the blond had some ulterior motive? She shook her head, refusing to believe it. Even if she was angry at Naruto right now, that didn't mean that she should let this jackass undermine the deeds he had done for her. ''I'm warning you. Shut the fuck up.'' Said the girl with barely contained rage.

''A prisoner has no right to make demands of me'' Said the boy, still smiling. ''In fact, as a prisoner you are practically a slave to us. You are the one that should listen to my demands. You may not be attractive, but you might still make a good whor-'' He was interrupted by a slap to the face, but not by the girl he had been expecting.

Yugao stood beside the stunned young man, with her hand still extended from the previous hit she gave him. ''That is no way to talk to a lady, kid''

''Yugao?'' Said Kurotsuchi in surprise. She hadn't even sensed the woman nearby. ''What are you doing here? I thought you had gone home to rest''

''I had'' Said the purple-haired woman. One could notice that she hadn't been on duty since she didn't have her ANBU uniform, and was instead using a casual attire: a sleeveless blue top and cargo pants. ''I went to your apartment earlier to see if you had made any progress after I left you. When I saw that you hadn't arrived yet I came to find you''

''That's...surprisingly thoughtful of you.'' Said Kurotsuchi, a bit more calm now that Yugao was here.

''And you...'' Said Yugao as she directed her attention to the rude boy she had just smacked. ''Leave, or I'll make you leave''

''I understand. Sorry if I offended you in any way'' Responded the pale-skinned man with the same fake grin he always seemed to have.

''Go the fuck away, asshole!'' Demanded Kurotsuchi.

''Leave. Now.'' Warned Yugao, backing Kurotsuchi up.

The boy just nodded obediently, smile still on his face, before he turned around and walked away. It seemed that the assignment that Danzo-Sama gave him would have to wait for some other time. He had been so close to making the girl attack him and completing that particular mission. It didn't matter right now anyway, there was no rush. It wasn't like he felt frustrated either. After all, he never felt anything at all.

Now with the unwanted presence of the boy gone, Kurotsuchi turned to Yugao with a grateful look. ''Thanks for that. That prick was really starting to get on my nerves''

''Don't mention it'' Said the older woman before she let out a sigh. ''I leave you alone for a few hours and you get yourself into these situations''

''Uhh...Sorry?'' Responded the tomboy.

''Anyhow, I'll walk you to your apartment in case that the creep is still around'' Suggested the purple-haired woman.

Kurotsuchi didn't feel comfortable depending on Yugao to watch her back, but she also didn't want to take the risk of running into the pale-skinned weirdo by herself again. So she just nodded in agreement. And with that, both girls started walking in the direction to Kurotsuchi's apartment.

''You know, it would have been good to let me know that I could rely on the ANBU to have my back. In that case, I would not have tolerated that bastard for as long as I had.'' Said Kurotsuchi as they continued their stride.

''Is good that you did. Our task is not to help you, just to stop you if you try anything. If you had attacked him, my comrades would have put you down or seized you and brought you to the Hokage.'' Responded Yugao.

Kurotsuchi gave the older woman a quizzical look. ''But you just-''

''What I did, I did it outside of my shift'' Interrupted Yugao. ''I helped you on my own accord, not because It was my duty.''

Kurotsuchi widened her eyes in shock at Yugao's admission. All this time she just figured that the woman begrudgingly tolerated her due to her job. She never thought that she would go out of her way to help her just because she wanted to. Well, at least she hadn't been wrong in her previous assumption that the ANBU would not help her even if she was the one being wronged.

Yugao noticed the look on the tomboy, and she had a pretty good idea of what she was thinking. ''I heard a bit of what that guy told you. You don't believe any of that, do you?''

''What do you mean?'' Inquired the prodigy.

''That you think you are a burden to all of us. You don't believe that, right?'' Said Yugao.

''What does it matter what I think? I can't do anything about it even if it's true or false.'' Said Kurotsuchi with a frown.

''It matters because it was clearly bothering you'' Insisted the ANBU. She didn't dislike Kurotsuchi, the girl wasn't so bad even if she was from Iwa. Yea the tomboy could be a bit annoying sometimes, but nothing that she couldn't handle. ''I helped you back there because I wanted to. Even after knowing that you think I consider you a burden? You think you are a burden to Naruto?''

Kurotsuchi didn't know how to answer that. Naruto had already told her that he considered her precious to him, so she already knew that he didn't hang out with her out of obligation. But she still wondered if she was extra baggage that he had to deal with. One could be precious to someone and still be a burden. She hated being a prisoner! Not only did it denigrate her, but it also made things difficult for the people she befriended here. Even Yugao who she previously tried to kill in the Land of Rivers came to help her. That thought just made her feel like the biggest scumbag ever.

Yugao sighed again when she noticed that Kurotsuchi still seemed full of doubt. She hoped that the boy's comments didn't get to her too much.

In just a few more minutes they were at Kurotsuchi's apartment building. Now that they had arrived at their destination, Yugao turned once more to her young companion. ''Here we are. I don't think you need me to escort you to your door, do you?''

''Very funny'' Said Kurotsuchi, clearly unamused.

''At least Naruto seems to be asleep, so he should not bother you when you try to rest'' Joked the ANBU, noticing that all the lights in Naruto's apartment were off.

''He probably wouldn't even if he wasn't, either way. We kinda had a fight'' Informed the tomboy.

''You guys fought? About what?'' Asked Yugao with a frown.

''Something stupid, really. Now I just feel silly about it.'' Said Kurotsuchi. Despite what she said she was still a bit angry at the blond. But in hindsight, she herself had been a bit overdramatic and shouldn't have let the Yondaime issue escalate the way it did.

''I'm sorry to hear it. But all I can say is try to get a good night's rest. Tomorrow you can sort your issues out'' Said Yugao.

''Sounds like a good idea. I better get some sleep.'' Said Kurotsuchi as she started going up the stairs of the apartment building.

Yugao had already started going on her way when she was called back.

''Yugao''

The ANBU stopped in her tracks to turn around and look at Kurotsuchi, who was still in standing on the steps of the staircase.

''Thanks again for before'' Said the grateful Kurotsuchi.

''No problem, kiddo'' Said the older woman with a grin before she turned away again to go on her way.

Once the older woman was gone, Kurotsuchi went into her apartment. She just took off her weapons pouch, flak jacket, and her sandals before she got to bed, not even bothering to change into her pajamas. The encounter with that creepy boy was still fresh in her mind, and as much as she hated to admit it he did a pretty good job in stirring her insecurities. She hoped that she never saw the guy again, but whoever he was, he had been pretty well informed about her and realizing that made her feel too uneasy to sleep properly.

Author's notes:

Finally! I'm so so sorry guys! This took longer than I anticipated. You see, I decided to go back to my previous chapters to look for grammatical errors, this has been the most arduous search for errors I have made. The problem was that going through the same chapters over and over and over again tired me out, and I don't want to say that it kinda made me sick of the fic...but it did kinda made me sick of the fic for a while. But after getting into RWBY(I'm pleasantly surprised at how good it turned to be) and watching all episodes I feel fresh to resume my writing. So don't worry, I didn't quit writing this story, I just took a small break but now I'm back.

And as always, please review or PM me if you have the chance and you want to!