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 31: Getting Your Dues
Kurotsuchi's pink eyes stared motionless at the wall of her apartment. She was sitting on her bed with her head resting on the wall behind her. She was biting her lip as she tried to keep herself calm but her meditation had proven to be next to useless. Her mind was numb and the emotional pain she felt almost physically hurt. She clenched her fist over her chest, wishing like she could do something to quench her troubled heart, but how could she? She had treated her best friend, the boy she loved, like crap. He had been trying to share his concerns with her and she dismissed him, telling him it wasn't her problem, now he would probably join the fire monks at the fire temple and she would not see him in years.
Would he still be the same knucklehead she fell in love with when he came back? And the worst part was that it would be for the best if he wasn't as it would make it easier to get over her feelings for him. She closed her eyes to curse under her breath. Why did this have to happen to her? She was content with the idea of being alone and single forever until Naruto came into her life, and just when she had been feeling the most wonderful feelings she had ever felt was when she realized too late that those same feelings were the worst mistake she could have made. And even now that she was cutting ties with Naruto and should feel glad for it but she couldn't, it felt wrong even if it was the right thing to do for both of them.
''Kurotschi, are you there?!''
The Iwa girl was snapped out of her thoughts by someone yelling just outside her apartment, and it took her a couple of seconds to recognize Sakura's voice calling out to her.
''Open up, hurry!'' Insisted Sakura before she started banging the door loudly.
Kurotsuchi frowned in discomfort, she wasn't in a particularly good mood to deal with Sakura right now. But the urgency and the strength of the knocks on her door told her that it was probably a good idea to answer and fast before the hinges gave out.
Kurotsuchi rapidly made her way to her door and promptly opened it to find a hysteric looking Sakura waiting for her at the other side.
Kurotsuchi was momentarily taken aback by the medic's panicked look in her eyes and her ragged breath. ''Sakura, what is going on?'' Asked Kurotsuchi at once.
''You have to come with me, it's urgent!'' Said Sakura.
''Okay okay, I'm coming, but why?'' Said Kurotsuchi, wanting to know at least the cause for this distress.
''I'll explain on the way. This is about Naruto'' Said Sakura.
Upon hearing Sakura mention the blond, Kurotsuchi froze and attempted to come with an excuse on the spot. She didn't know what the emergency was, but if Naruto was involved it was best if she stayed far away. ''I'm sorry, but I-''
''He is in danger!'' Interrupted Sakura, making Kurotsuchi's words die in her throat as she stared in shock at the medic. ''If we don't help he will die, do you get that?!'' When Tsunade had requested for Sakura, the pinkette knew that she to let Kurotsuchi know of this. Tsunade never requested for the Iwa girl but Sakura decided that they needed as much help as they could get and Kurotsuchi also deserved to get involved if it concerned Naruto. ''Are you coming or not?!'' Urged Sakura once more.
Kurotsuchi turned her mortified face towards Sakura, staring at her momentarily before she put on a resolute face, making up her choice.
-Hokage Tower-
Tsunade stood impatiently behind her desk, tapping her foot and doing her best not to pace around the room in panic. Before her were dozens of her Shinobi waiting for the remainder of the ninjas summoned just like their leader was doing. She had a frown marring her face and she breathed slowly and deeply to keep her temper in check. But she would not start until her student arrived. ''I swear Sakura, if you don't get here withing the next ten seconds I'm going to...''
As soon as the thought crossed her mind, the Hokage spotted the familiar pink head of her apprentice entering her office.
''I'm here, Tsunade-Shishou!'' Declared Sakura as she entered the office with Kurotsuchi in tow.
''About time! What took you so...Why is the girl here too?'' Asked Tsunade when she saw Kurotsuchi accompanying Sakura, making the two girls stop in their tracks. ''Nevermind, she can stay. I don't have time for this'' Said Tsunade with a dismissive wave of her hand.
Sakura nodded before she walked all the way to the front of the office, where Kakashi and Sai were already waiting for her.
Kurotsuchi for her part stayed all the way to the back alongside some Chunin that had also been summoned, and aside from the members of Team Seven, she could not see anyone else she knew inside the cramped room.
With everyone present, Tsunade didn't waste another second to start explaining the situation. ''As you've probably already heard when I've called for all of you, we have a crisis in our hands'' Said Tsunade as she eyed the Shinobi before her. ''An hour ago, Kotetsu arrived at the village gates, barely alive and with severe wounds. He is hospitalized right now and in critical condition. And that's not all, he has informed us that his team which I sent on a special mission was ambushed by the Akatsuki''
Kurotsuchi widened her eyes at hearing that. She clenched her shaking fists in anger as she knew what that had to mean...
''Naruto, who was part of the same team, has been captured and we don't know Izumo's status'' Informed Tsunade, confirming Kurotsuchi's suspicions. At the news, the Shinobi in the room started eyeing each other in worry, dawning on them the direness of the situation at hand. ''I won't keep wasting time here. You are to form teams and go search for the Akatsuki and retrieve Naruto. Capture or kill the Akatsuki if you are able, but Naruto is your priority. If you have to snatch him and escape with him so be it, but you are getting him back one way or the other. Am I clear?'' Finished Tsunade with a stern look.
Everyone in the room nodded in understanding as Kurotsuchi did the same.
''All except for you, girl'' Said Tsunade, pointing a finger at Kurotsuchi when she noticed that the girl seemed to think she was included in this at all.
''Wait, what!?'' Replied Kurotsuchi in indignation. Like hell she was going to stand idle while Naruto was getting his life force sucked out from him. ''You can't do this-''
Everyone in the room flinched as Tsunade brought her palm down on her desk with enough force to crack it, shooting a murderous look at Kurotsuchi who stopped her tirade.
''Listen well because I won't say this again, you petulant child'' Muttered Tsunade in a low and dangerous tone of voice, barely keeping herself from exploding as she dug her nails into the wood of her desk. ''I'm not in the mood to deal with your outbursts, not even close. Say another word or disobey me and I'll throw you into a cell, crippled for life'' Tsunade was feeling like crap, she herself had suggested Naruto go to the fire temple even when he didn't want to go, and she was the one to assign the mission on top of it. She was going to make things right and fast, and she wasn't going to waste her time dealing with the Iwa prisoner more than she had to.
The heavy atmosphere in the room made several people gulp. The Hokage was not to be messed with when she was in a bad mood, let alone when she was livid like right now.
Kurotsuchi was momentarily taken aback by the woman's murderous look and killing intent flooding the room, but she was quick to steel herself and stare back defiantly. She was just as worried for Naruto, and she was going to go one way or another. She was about to reply when she noticed Kakashi, all the way from the front row of all the Shinobi present, glancing back at her and shaking his head gravely warning her from starting a fight with Tsunade.
Kurotsuchi stopped herself at the last second from talking back to the Hokage. Kakashi was right, she needed to be careful and handle this matter with tact. She wasn't going to help Naruto if she got herself thrown in jail before she could do so.
Tsunade just stared coldly at Kurosuchi as the girl glared at the ground and left the office silently. At least the girl knew in the end what was good for her and didn't cause any more trouble.
Sakura frowned guiltily at the scene, she had bee the one to bring Kurotsuchi here. she had thought she had done the right thing but she almost managed to make a terrible situation even worse.
With that out of the way, Tsunade gave her attention to the Shinobi in front of her once again. ''Now I'll arrange the teams...''
Kurotsuchi made her way out of the Hokage tower pushing people out of the way as she did. Her mind worked overtime as she ignored the annoyed looks of the people she passed by. There had to be something she could do, there had to be! But how? If she wasn't allowed to leave the village how could she ever be able to help Naruto? Unless...
The girl stopped dead in her tracks as a certain thought entered her mind. It was risky. If she was discovered then all would be over for her, and even if she managed to help Naruto there was a very good chance she would pay dearly for this. But she didn't have a choice, she owed Naruto at least that much.
Sakura told her that she heard from the nurses tending to Kotetsu that Naruto apparently managed to defeat an Akatsuki by himself, which was very impressive, but that meant that had she gone with him like he suggested her then maybe they could have taken care of both of the Akatsuki. If she had accompanied Naruto like he wanted, Yugao most likely would have gone with them too and if Naruto could take on a single member by himself then their odds would have been good if Izumo, Kotetsu, Yugao, and Kurotsuchi herself could have taken on the other one. But no, she had been too busy trying to distance herself from Naruto and now this happened. So as far as Kurotsuchi was concerned all this was her fault, so if she had to risk her neck to save the boy she loved then so be it. Now she had a plan and she was going to put it to work...
At the other side of the village, Sai was hurriedly gathering supplies for the mission to retrieve Naruto. Even thought the briefing with the Hokage had been just a few minutes ago he was already supposed to meet with his team in ten minutes. Normally a team took an hour before they deployed but this was an emergency.
The pale boy walked beside yet another one of the easels scattered throughout his small apartment to grab a pouch containing a couple small blank scrolls that he used for his drawing based Jutsu.
A few knocks on his door grabbed his attention as he turned with a serious face to stare at his apartment door. He just shrugged and decided to ignore it until he was done grabbing all he needed. He was in a rush and didn't have time for visits.
However, the knocks continued and got even louder. ''Open up, faggot, it's me!'' Said Kurotsuchi's voice at the other side of the door before she continued banging on it. ''I know you are there! open this shit!''
''Kurotsuchi-San?'' Said Sai out loud, surprised for the tomboy's sudden visit, especially at a time like this. ''I'm sorry but I'm extremely busy at the moment. Could you come by any other time?'' He liked the girl and he wanted to help her when it concerned her relationship with Naruto but this was a dire situation, he didn't have time to waste with her or anyone else for that matter.
''This is important, so open this door right now!''
Sai continued to ignore her as he adjusted his weapons pouch on his waist.
''Okay, that's it! You either open this door in five seconds or I'll smash it down!''
Sai sighed. It was clear that she wasn't going to relent until he at least heard her out.
Kurotsuchi was getting impatient and she was glaring holes through the door in front of her. The faggot better not leave her hanging or she would find a way to make him regret it.
''Don't say I didn't warn you!'' Said the irate girl, ready to break the door down. ''One...Two...Three...Four-''
Then, the door opened to reveal Sai standing at the other side with his ever serious face. ''Hi, Kurotsuchi-San'' Said Sai without missing a beat. Time was running short, after all. ''Please I would request you to be quick, Naruto's well-being depends on it'' Sai reminded her.
''That's precisely why I'm here!'' Said Kurotsuchi. ''This is about helping Naruto, moron!''
Sai blinked in surprise. He wondered how she intended to do so if she couldn't even go with them according to the Hokage. ''How are you going to do that?''
''Let me in and I'll tell you inside'' Said Kurotsuchi. She wanted to avoid the ANBU constantly following her from listening.
Sai nodded and stepped aside inviting the girl to come in and she did just that.
As soon as Kurotsuchi entered she was hit with a strong smell of paint, which was to be expected when she saw the entire apartment littered with easels and canvas both finished and unfinished, but somehow Sai had managed to arrange them in such a way that they left narrow paths to get around the apartment. It was just like the weirdo to be orderly even when he was messy. Well no matter, she didn't come here to get a tour of the pale moron's apartment.
Kurotsuchi started explaining herself after Sai closed the door behind her. ''I'm going to help Naruto'' Said the girl before she turned to look at the ROOT agent. ''But I need your help, as much as I hate to say it''
Sai had already guessed as much, she would have never come to him otherwise. However, as much as he wanted to help her in any way he could he knew that it would be unwise. She had been explicitly forbidden by the Hokage herself from getting involved in this, and Sai was already on thin ice with the Hokage regarding his true loyalties considering he was a ROOT member, if he helped Kurotsuchi at the very least he would be accused of insubordination or conspiring with an enemy Shinobi, and in the worst-case scenario he could be labeled a traitor. Not to mention that Kurotsuchi was acting in desperation which wasn't a good mental state to be making critical decisions. ''I'm sorry, but I don't think I can help'' Said Sai with regret.
''Now you listen here'' Said Kurotsuchi threateningly as she approached Sai slowly, making the boy lean back slightly in worry. ''My best friend is in danger, in the hands of the biggest assholes I know and I'll be damned if I don't do something to help him! So you either help me or I'll make you help me''
Sai stared impassively at Kurotsuchi's face for a moment before responding. ''I know that you care about Naruto and I know that you want to help him. I get that. But you are distressed and you will be prone to acting recklessly. If you want to beat me up, fine but I would rather you didn't, because if you did you would not accomplish anything but hurt Naruto even more by getting in the way of his rescue mission and getting yourself thrown in jail''
At Sai's words, Kurotsuchi narrowed her eyes in impotence as she glanced at the floor, knowing that Sai had a point.
Seeing that she wasn't going to add anything the boy continued.
''Naruto is my friend too and I'll do anything I can to help him but we have to be smart about this. A wrong and hasty decision could seal a grim fate for him'' Said Sai but Kurotsuchi remained silent. ''I have to finish preparing myself. Now if you'll excuse me'' Finished the ANBU before he started walking.
''It's my fault!'' Kurotschi's grief in her voice made Sai stop in his tracks before he turned around to look at the girl once more.
''It's my fault'' Repeated the girl with guilt. ''He wanted me to come with him, you know''
Sai blinked as he stared at her silently, he hadn't known that.
''I should have gone with him, I've should have been there for him when those bastards attacked him'' Said Kurotsuchi, her somber voice letting Sai know how deeply it troubled her. ''And not only that but I was so cold to him. He only wanted to hang out as friends and I told him to fuck off. I don't want that to be the last exchange between us, I don't want for things to end up like this. He deserves better''
Kurotsuchi approached Sai once more, but this time Sai didn't feel threatened at all, she seemed mellow in fact. She stopped until she was right in front of him and looked him straight in the eye.
''You said you wanted to be our friend, right? You said you wanted to understand more about bonds'' Said Kurotsuchi softly but with resolve. ''I now that I haven't exacted treated you like a friend, and I have never asked anything of you. But just this once, I need you to help me with this''
Sai pondered on this dilemma. He wanted to help, he really did, but this was not his call, he would get into a world of hell if he accepted.
''Sai'' The boy widened his eyes in surprise, in all the time he had known her Kurotsuchi had never called him by his name. ''Please, help me out. Just this once'' Finished the girl, her eyes reflecting her hope.
Kurotsuchi had a point, Sai realized, he did consider them his friends and he had vowed to help them in any way he could. But was breaking the rules the right thing to do for them at this time? He glanced back at Kurotsuchi and seeing the worry but also the strength of her gaze was enough to make him make a decision, he could only hope it was the right one, for everyone involved...
Kakashi wasn't a punctual man, not even close, but this was an emergency, one that had his student's life at stake and as such he had waited at the gates of the village impatiently, along with Sakura, for Sai to arrive. Still, He couldn't help feeling a bit fretful, he hadn't expected Sai of all people to be late, he had to know the severity of the situation. Anyway, if the boy didn't arrive in the next minute Kakashi would be forced to go look for him.
''Just where in the world is Sai?!'' Asked Sakura out loud. Sai was unbelievable! How could he be late for this mission? Didn't he realize that Naruto was in danger?! ''I'm going to kill him if he doesn't get here this instant!''
''I'm here''
That made Kakashi and Sakura turn to look at Sai, who was just arriving in a body flicker.
''Where the hell have you been?!'' Said Sakura in anger. ''Do you not care about what might happen to Naruto?! He could die!''
Sai shot Sakura a rather annoyed look. ''I'm here now, aren't I? Let's get moving'' Said the boy.
Sakura gave Sai and incredulous look. He was late and still had the gall to act annoyed?! However, before she could say anything else to him Kakashi interrupted her.
''Sai's right, the important thing is that we are all here now'' Said Kakashi, getting the teenagers attention. ''We are already pressed for time, so I'll explain our strategy on the way. So, if you two are all set, follow me!''
And with that, the three Konoha Shinobi rushed past the Konoha gates and into the forest.
-Somewhere in The Land of Fire-
Naruto's muffled screams could be heard all throughout the cave he was in. He bit down hard on the rag in his mouth to try and endure the pain to no avail.
Hidan laughed gleefully as he unburied the Kunai he had stabbed into Naruto's shoulder, inciting yet another pained yell from the bound and gagged boy.
''Would you stop that, Hidan?'' Said Kakuzu as he leaned on one of the cave's walls, sitting down and recovering from his fight with the Jinchuuriki. He was still missing his cloak, and his skin and remaining clothes looked worn down and torn.
''But this is so fun!'' Said Hidan with a cruel smile as he scratched Naruto across the cheek, making the boy wince in pain as he got covered even more in his own blood. ''The little shit heals fast, I can keep stabbing him, beat him, and he is all ready to start all over again in just a couple hours! I think I might have to step up my game, this asshole can certainly take it. And why do you care anyway, Kakuzu? He is the one that got you into that pitiful state, shouldn't you enjoy this as much as me?'' Said the sadist before punching Naruto on his wounded cheek, making the boy fall to the side and to the floor.
''I'll make the runt pay for this soon enough'' Said Kakuzu, annoyed to be reminded of the beating he received, courtesy of the blond. ''But right now I want to recover my strength, in peace and quiet mind you'' Without any other options he had been forced to consume the heart of the Chunin they killed. It wasn't optimal but it would have to do for the moment. At the very least that made him recover his water mask.
''Well, sucks for you because I ain't stopping. I'm having way too much fun of making this brat cry like a little girl'' Said Hidan before he noticed Naruto looking at him, and despite his injuries, being covered from head to toe in his own blood, and the fact that he could barely move, he still found the will to give him a death glare. ''What are you looking at, huh?!'' Said Hidan before kicking Naruto in the stomach, making the boy twist in agony. ''You think you are tough shit while you are whimpering on the dirt covered in your blood?! you look like a fucking pig so squirm like one'' Continued Hidan as he kept assaulting the downed boy with a barrage of kicks.
Kakuzu groaned in annoyance, but Hidan wasn't going to stop no matter what he said, and until he recovered he wouldn't have the strength to make the idiot do what he said. So the only thing to do was to just ignore it as best he could. Then it would be his turn to make the boy's last moments of life a living hell.
-Konoha's park-
Yugao slowly made her way towards Kurotsuchi who was sitting on a bench in the park.
The ANBU passed by some kids playing on the swings as a concerned look marred her features. She had followed Kurotsuchi from Sai's apartment, so whatever she had wanted to accomplish by going to him must have failed, which was a relief for Yugao. She could understand Kurotsuchi wanting to desperately help Naruto, if she was in the girl's place she would be doing the same, but she also didn't want her getting into trouble so it was for the best that her attempts to be a hero didn't work. Still, Yugao felt bad for the girl, she knew that she had to be feeling like utter crap right now and no doubt feeling responsible in some way for what was happening. But at the very least Yugao could check on the girl and see how she was doing.
''Hey'' Said Yugao in greeting once she made her way to the younger girl.
Kurotsuchi tensed up when she heard Yugao's voice before she turned around to return the greeting. ''Hi, Yugao-San''
The older woman looked at Kurotsuchi as she stood alongside the bench. ''You mind if I sit down?''
Kurotsuchi gently shook her head with a bit of reservation but still allowed it.
Both women stayed silent momentarily, enjoying the serenity of their surroundings. Even thought it wasn't quiet due to the laughs of the numerous kids playing around and the chirping of birds it somehow was still soothing.
Finally, Yugao turned to glance at Kurotuchi, she put her arms over her knees as she leaned forward a little bit. ''How are you feeling?'' Asked the older woman. The answer was obvious but she just wanted to bring out the topic.
Kurotsuchi shrugged as she kept staring at her hands resting on her lap. ''All things considered, I'm fine I guess'' Said the girl plainly.
Yugao frowned in worry. It was obvious that she wasn't fine and the girl just wanted to bottle up all her concerns. ''Are you sure about that?'' Inquired the ANBU.
Kurotsuchi didn't respond, opting instead to keep staring at her hands.
Yugao sighed, it was just like Kurotsuchi to be reserved especially when it came to feelings. ''Kid, I know that technically I'm guarding you, but that doesn't mean that I don't consider you a friend. I can only hope you feel the same'' Said the woman wholeheartedly, trying to let the girl know that she could open up to her is she needed it.
Still, Kurotsuchi didn't speak, she just seemed deep in thought.
''I understand that you don't want to speak about it, but I thought that letting it all out might make you feel better'' Yugao insisted, doing her best to do it in a gentle manner. ''Believe me, I know how it feels when someone very dear to you is in danger and l you feel powerless to do anything. I know that it can feel maddening, like you could literally go crazy from feeling useless. But there was nothing you could have done, and if anything I'm proud that you are taking this as well as you are doing it right now'' Said Yugao, hoping that anything of what she said struck a cord with the tomboy.
Kurotsuchi seemed unsure of what to do or say, and for a moment it appeared that she wasn't going to add anything to the conversation until she spoke. ''It was hard indeed to stay put, but in the end I realized that this was the best I could do. I need to have faith and understand that I can't do everything and I have to trust the Hokage's judgment''
Yugao watched Kurotsuchi silently with an unreadable expression, action which made the Iwa girl feel a bit nervous.
''I see'' Said Yugao in the end before slowly standing up.
Kurotsuchi sighed in relief, glad that this conversation seemed to be over. But suddenly, Yugao grabbed the girl by her collar and dragged her to her feet forcing her to stand up and look at the ANBU straight in the eye.
''Who are you?'' Whispered Yugao dangerously as she stared coldly into the pink eyes of the tomboy while she poised a Kunai over her chest with her other hand.
''Wh-What?'' Responded Kurotsuchi, feigning ignorance.
''You aren't fooling me no more'' Said Yugao, tightening her grip on both the girl and her weapon. ''Kurotsuchi would not be here telling herself that there is nothing she could do to help Naruto, no, she would be here busting her head trying to think of something, anything to do. And more importantly, she would never take orders from the Hokage as readily as you are doing, she would at least complain that she had to obey. Who are you?!''
'Kurotsuchi' stared back impassively at the irate woman, still keeping his cool despite having being discovered. ''Yugao-San, I promise you that-''
''Shut up!'' Said Yugao. ''Who are you?!'' Demanded again the ANBU.
'Kurotsuchi' seemed to realize that it would be a bad idea to keep this up lest she ended up getting stabbed. So, the fake girl dispelled the illusion, her form vanishing in a puff of smoke as she turned into Sai, revealing that he had been using a Henge.
''Sai!?'' Exclaimed the confused Yugao. ''Why are you here and where is Kurotsuchi?!''
''Kurotsuchi wanted my help'' Said the boy plainly with a serious face as always.
''What did you do?'' Asked Yugao coldly. ''And how did you fool my sensory skills?'' It was one thing for Sai to disguise himself as Kurotsuchi, but disguising Chakra signatures wasn't that easy.
Sai was reluctant to answer at first but he quickly realized that it was useless to keep hiding his intentions. ''Kurotsuchi-San said that she needed to get out of the village but she would never be allowed to go. So she concluded that if that was the case she would have to go out as someone else'' Explained the ROOT member before he pulled up his shirt, revealing a weird seal tag on his stomach. ''I sealed some of Kurotsuchi-San's chakra in this seal while I suppressed mine as best as I could. that way I could mask my chakra signature for her's at least temporarily''
At least that explained how they managed to fool Yugao's sensory skills. Nevertheless, Yugao decided to focus on a specific part of Sai's statement ''She got out as someone else?'' Repeated Yugao before a look of realization hit her. When Kurotsuchi entered Sai's apartment she did it so the ANBU guarding her would not realize she and Sai had traded places! Rage invaded her gaze as she stared at Sai. ''You are idiots! How could you let her talk you into this?!''
''I wanted to help Naruto, and Kurotsuchi-San too. They are my friends and I owe them a lot. That's all I can say'' Explained Sai.
''You do know that you helped a prisoner escape custody and slip out of the village right?!'' Said Yugao. ''You could get me, you, and her throw into prison for your stupidity. What do you have to say in your defense?''
Say just stared back silently for a few seconds before responding her. ''I think Kurotsuchi-San is lucky to have a friend like you, Yugao-San. I didn't know you had a soft side'' Said Sai with a smile.
Yugao gritted her teeth in anger as a blush spread across her cheeks. It was bad enough that she let Kurotsuchi escape, but she had also poured her heart out to Sai of all people thinking he was Kurotsuchi. She was so angry she was tempted to leave the idiot boy into a bloody mess, but in the end she decided it wasn't worth it and just settled for pushing Sai away from her. ''I should have stabbed you anyway for this''
Sai just rubbed his neck but decided against responding, knowing that whatever he said wasn't going to calm the woman down.
''Stupid girl'' Muttered Yugao. The Hokage was going to have her and her entire ANBU squad's ass for this. ''Now you better bring him back''
-Somewhere in The Land of Fire-
''They can't be far'' Said Kakashi as he jumped from a tree to another with Sakura and 'Sai' right behind him. They had already found signs of a battle just a few minutes ago, it was hard to miss a part of the forest had been completely destroyed and left a large crater, a trace from Naruto's Rasenshuriken no doubt. The logical place for the Akatsuki to go was to get out of the Land of Fire and this was the shortest way to the border. If they were quick they might be able to catch up to the Akatsuki in about a day.
''What's our plan for when we find them, Kakashi-Sensei?'' Asked Sakura. They have been traveling at full speed and they would not stop any time soon, so they aren't exactly going to be fresh when they catch up to the Akatsuki.
''We aren't sure who we are up against, in the state Kotetsu arrived we couldn't get a lot of information out of him, only that they were ambushed by the Akatsuki and that Naruto managed to take on one by himself'' Said Kakashi. ''So we'll have to use a more general strategy: We hit hard and fast as soon as we make contact and hope that it gives us an opening to grab Naruto and get out. If that doesn't work, we fight to stall and hope that another team manages to catch up and support us''
''Understood'' Said Sakura obediently.
'Sai' Simply nodded. ''I'm coming for you, Naruto. Hold on'' thought the disguised Kurotsuchi.
However, not even a couple of minutes later suddenly Kakashi widened his eyes in panic and quickly signaled everyone to stop.
''Down, now!'' Yelled Kakashi, prompting Sakura and 'Sai' to jump down from the tree branched together with Kakashi, just in time before a large and concentrated stream of water obliterated along with the tree tops.
Now that they knew that they were under attack, the Konoha squad members got into their battle stances.
''As expected of copy ninja Kakashi'' Said Kakuzu as he came out the back of a tree and stood in front of Team Seven. while Hidan came out from the other side.
''We didn't expect Konoha to get wind of us so soon. How annoying'' Said Hidan with a sneer. they had left Naruto safe and secure in a nearby cave while they set up traps in case they were being followed. Shame that Konoha already caught up to them before they could set any. That was fine by Hidan, he liked getting up close and personal when he bisected his enemies instead of placing booby traps.
''Those two again'' thought Kakashi with narrowed eyes. He remembered them from when he found Naruto last time. On that occasion they had almost got him, so they came back to finish their work.
Sakura frowned at seeing these guys again. Last time she had just known that the one with the scythe was immortal, but surely both of them had bizarre abilities, so being on guard was the smart thing to do. She was going to sow them what happened when someone messed with her team!
'Sai' on the other hand, was livid with rage. Kurotsuchi could barely keep her rage under control that she almost saw red. Those assholes in front of her had not only tortured her for fun, but also were attempting to kill Naruto and take him away from her. Oh, how she was going to make them pay.
Hidan smirked cruelly before pulling the scythe strapped on his back, ready to fight. ''Let's see if you guys are more competent than the rest of the Konoha fucks we fought. The last one I killed, the Chunin, was especially pathetic'' Added the Jashinist.
Kakashi narrowed his eyes, suspecting already who he was talking about. ''Are you talking about Izumo?'' Asked the Sharingan user with a hard edge to his tone of voice.
Hidan's mocking laugh was all the answer they needed.
''Hidan'' Said Kakuzu, grabbing Hidan's attention.
''What do you want, Kakuzu?'' Asked the sadist.
''Go get the Jinchuuriki and take it to one of our hideouts out of the Land of Fire'' Said Kakuzu, confusing Hidan but making Kakashi widen his lone eye in worry as he was already suspecting what Kakuzu was doing.
''What? You must be kidding, I ain't running away from these cockroaches'' Complained Hidan as he eyes his partner in disbelief.
''Listen, idiot'' Said Kakuzu in irritation. ''Do you really think that they are the only squad from Konoha looking for us? There are going to be more and they will be looking for the Jinchuuriki. Fighting with them would just waste our time. I bet they don't even have the intention of winning, just buying time for help to arrive'' Finished Kakuzu.
Kakashi cursed under his breath. Kakuzu was smart.
''Like I'm scared of a bunch of weaklings. Let them come, I'll slaughter them all'' Said Hidan.
Kakuzu glared at his partner. He felt like he was talking to a stupid child sometimes. ''Go. Now'' Said Kakuzu with finality.
''Fine, fine. If it is so important to you I'll do it'' Said Hidan before turning to look at the Konoha shinobi. ''You are some lucky bastards, I can't stay to play with you. But thinking it over, Kakuzu is going to wipe the floor with you anyway, so maybe you aren't as lucky. Said Hidan before disappearing from sight, already fleeing from the place.
''I won't let you!'' Yelled 'Sai', rushing after Hidan.
''Don't go by yourself, Sai!'' Ordered Kakashi but fell on deaf ears.
''Fool'' Muttered Kakuzu as he extended an arm. After his body convulsed momentarily black tendrils sprouted from his hand along with a strange white mask. the mask opened his mouth and a large stream of water burst from its mouth, aiming for 'Sai'
The disguised Kurotsuchi saw the attack coming. She pressed her palm on the ground and an earth dome erected from it surrounding and shielding her.
The powerful water attack connected with the earth structure, destroying it in just a couple of seconds and crushing whatever was inside.
''Sai!'' Yelled Sakura in worry, fearing for the boy's safety.
However, when the water died down they saw a hole in the ground and no traces from Sai.
Then, several yards away, enough to bypass Kakuzu, Sai emerged from the ground and continued on his way to catch Hidan.
''Clever, but not clever enough'' Thought Kakuzu before his arm shot from his body, connected by black tendrils, aiming to catch the fleeing 'Sai'
But before the attack got far, the sound of a thousand birds resonated through the forest and a hound made of lightning flanked the Akatsuki member, biting the black tendrils, cutting them and severing Kakuzu's arm before the beast dissipated.
Kakuzu turned to look again at the remaining Konoha ninjas, and he saw Kakashi with an extended hand, no doubt that was the source of the last attack.
''You are fighting us'' Informed Kakashi. He hadn't expected Sai to use earth Jutsus, but he wasn't complaining. He just hoped that the ROOT member was good enough to last against Hidan until help arrived.
''As you wish'' Said Kakuzu as the tendrils from his body connected to the ones from his sliced arm, putting them back into place as if nothing had happened.
Sakura groaned in exasperation. This was just great. One freak couldn't die and the other could regenerate from anything.
''Get ready, Sakura'' Ordered Kakashi, getting himself into a fighting stance. ''Don't let him get the drop on you''
''I got it'' Responded the medic. She had a feeling that this wasn't going to be a walk in the park. Hopefully Sai didn't get himself killed since he was going to face one by himself...
Hidan arrived at the cave where he and Kakuzu were keeping Naruto. The place was dark and it smelled of humid soil, but it didn't matter, it was a just temporary resting place.
''Kyuubi brat, wake up we are leaving'' Hidan's voice echoed as he entered the dark place. Naruto was all the way on the back and due to the darkness, only his shape could be made out with the naked eye.
Hidan had barely entered the cave when he was forced to jump further into it by parrying a sword slash aimed at the back of his head. The sadist pressed his scythe against the sword to find himself facing an enraged Sai.
''So you managed to get pass Kakuzu. He must be losing his touch'' Commented Hidan. ''Meh, this is your funeral. Unlike the Jinchuuriki I don't need you alive. Sucks to be you''
''Where is he?!'' Said the enraged 'Sai'. ''Answer me, you piece of shit!''
''Someone's angry'' Said the Akatsuki member. ''If you want him, try to get him!'' Then, as he blocked the sword, Hidan used the other end of his scythe and bashed 'Sai' in the face, pushing the Konoha Shinobi back a puff of smoke engulfed him, ending the Henge and revealing the boy to be Kurotsuchi.
Kurotsuchi hastily jumped back to avoid a slash from Hidan's weapon. Once when got enough distance she glared back at the Jashinist as she wiped some blood from her lip.
Hidan's look of surprise at seeing the boy be nothing but a transformation Jutsu quickly became one of amusement. ''Look who we have here! You missed me bitch?'' Taunted Sai. ''Sorry for not recognizing you earlier. You just don't look that much different from that other idiot, you are hideous like that''
In response, Kurotsuchi quickly went through some hand seals for her favorite technique. ''Yoton: Sekkaigyou no Jutsu(Lava Release: Quicklime Congealing Technique)!'' Yelled the girl before shooting a large mass of the ash-like substance from her mouth.
Hidan saw the attack coming and easily evaded the projectile, In response, Kurotsuchi spat yet another mass of quicklime, only for it to be avoided again. ''I ain't falling for that again!'' mocked Hidan. He already knew that he could harden that stuff, he wasn't going to let himself get covered in that again.
Kurotsuchi didn't relent, but instead of continuing her barrage of quicklime, she rushed at the man with surprising speed, slashing with her sword in an attempt to decapitate him.
Still, Hidan parried the blow again before pushing back the girl to overwhelm her with a flurry of slashes from his scythe.
Kurotsuchi expertly stepped around the first couple of swings and parried the next ones, being very careful to not let a single of the three blades cut her. The exchange in a lethal dance of steel clashing against steel until the strength of the last blow was enough to send both Shinobi away from each other.
''This bitch has improved a little bit'' thought Hidan with increasing annoyance as he stared at the girl in front of him, determination filled her eyes silently promising that she was going to make him pay. That look on her made the man angry, she actually had the audacity to think she was at his level. He would show her how wrong she was when Jashin-Sama tasted her blood! ''I'll squash you like the worthless filthy bug you are!''
Kurotsuchi saw Hidan rush her once again, he looked angrier than before. He brought down his weapon on her. She jumped back, avoiding the strike, but Hidan used his free hand to yank the chain attached to the scythe, throwing the weapon towards her. The attack had come fast and with no time to evade again, Kurotsuchi used her sword to push the scythe to the side. However, Hidan used the thrust from her party to spin the scythe by the chain in a three-sixty angle motion.
Kurotsuchi saw the blade rapidly making its way towards her from her flank, She took advantage of it by leaning under the swing ahs using this chance to rush at Hidan.
Hidan widened his eyes in panic when he saw his attack miss her completely and the girl quickly closing the distance between them. The Akatsuki member barely had time to jump back as the girl slashed at him with her sword.
Kurotsuchi clicked her tongue in frustration as the man landed several feet away from her. She had been so close to ending the fight but she hadn't been fast enough. If only that last slash had been a second faster the idiot would have been cut in half. Still, she could not deny that her training had worked, not only had her speed increased exponentially but her physical strength had too. Last time she faced this fucker he had swatted aside all her attacks like it was nothing, and now she could hold her ground. If the situation wasn't so urgent she might have taken a moment to congratulate herself...
Sakura rolled away from the tree she had been hiding at as a stream of concentrated water grinded it into splinters. She turned around to glare at a strange four-legged black beast made of dark tendrils that had a white mask as a head. After she and Kakashi had started fighting Kakuzu that strange beast emerged from the man's body and went off to fight Sakura by itself. The Akatsuki probably felt that splitting them up and keeping them from working together was more advantageous for him.
Sakura saw the beast opening its mouth in preparation for yet another attack. The medic rushed to the side, jumping at the last moment to avoid the stream of water. However, the beast readied another attack and held off from shooting it until Sakura touched ground, at which point the monster fired at her.
Sakura panicked when she saw it, she would not be able to dodge, not when she had just landed. So with a bit of quick thinking she threw a mighty punch to the ground below her, causing large rocks to erect around her, forming a makeshift shield from the water. Still, the rocks just served to absorb a portion of the stream's force as the water pulverized the rocks and hit Sakura directly.
The pink-haired girl gave a pained yell as she was sent flying from the force of the attack and hit a tree.
The thread monster aimed directly at Sakura before another large stream of water shot from its mouth.
Sakura knew that she wouldn't be able to dodge this one, not after the blow she just received. She closed her eyes, ready to endure the attack when a thick wall of earth with carvings of dog faces emerged from the ground in front of her. The wall proved to be much stronger than Sakura's previous improvisation as it took the entirety of the stream without breaking down. A moment later the sound of the chirping of a thousand birds filled the clearing as Kakashi appeared from the forest, hand coated in lighting, before slamming his Raikiri into the beast's face, shattering the mask causing the monster to elicit a dying scream before it went limp.
Sakura sighed in relief at the sight of her Sensei. At the very least he looked unharmed aside from a cut on his cheek.
Kakashi turned to look at Sakura with concern. ''Sakura, are you okay?''
''I will be'' Said the medic as she stood up with a bit of difficulty from the pain of the last blow. ''Where is Kakuzu?''
''Right Here'' Said the Akatsuki member as he came out from the same direction that Kakashi had come. But now, he had an enormous mass of black tendrils coming from everywhere on his body, including his mouth. ''You thought you could just ditch me, Kakashi? What, can't your brat fend for herself?''
Kakashi stared silently at Kakuzu in worry. This was bad, in a direct fight Sakura would be almost useless against Kakuzu. Sakura had to get close to do ay real damage, and Kakuzu would skewer her with his sharp tendrils as soon as she got close to him. Kakashi had to think of a way for both of them to work together against Kakuzu or they would not be able to beat him. But if he saw Sakura coming it was all over for her...Wait, that was it! What if he couldn't see her coming?
''Sakura, I have a plan'' muttered Kakashi, grabbing Sakura's attention.
The medic turned to stare at her Sensei with puzzlement. ''What do you mean, Sensei?''
''Just follow my lead'' Said Kakashi simply.
Kakuzu had had enough, he wasn't going to let them formulate a strategy. He yelled violently as he extended his arms causing more black tendrils to rush at Kakashi and Sakura to impale them.
Kakashi grabbed Sakura and quickly did a body flicker, taking he and his student out of harm's way.
Kakuzu glared as his attack only destroyed a tree instead of the Konoha Shinobi.
''Kirigakure no Jutsu( Hiding in Mist technique)!''
Kakuzu turned around trying to find the source of Kakashi's voice, but he never could as a thick layer of mist engulfed the area. So Kakashi was using the mist as cover? clever, it would buy him some time but it would be useless in the end. Kakuzu only had to keep quiet and listen to his surroundings.
Suddenly, the sound grass rustling grabbed the Akatsuki's attention.''There you are!'' Yelled Kakuzu suddenly, Stretching his arm and shooting even more tendrils in a random direction. The man grunted in annoyance as he could tell he had missed, but he couldn't dwell on that for much longer as two more hounds made of lightning came out from the mist positioned at both left and right sides of Kakuzu.
The criminal rapidly impaled one of them with the threads in on of his hands while he ducked under the other one's attack, then he used his other arm to impale the remaining beast. However, the sound of chirping of birds started again and Kakuzu was quick to notice that the sound came just from above him. Kakuzu used both his hands and raised them upwards shooting a large number of tendrils, the Akatsuki member was just able to see a pained Kakashi being pierced by his attack, only for the man to disappear in a cloud of smoke and a log took his place.
''Shannaro!''
Then, a shockingly powerful blow caught Kakuzu by the back of the head and sent him flying through the forest. the force of the punch had been so strong that he was even sent outside the area of the mist. The blow had left him disoriented for a few seconds as he laid on the grass with an aching head. he had been too busy fending off the attacks of Hatake to notice the girl creeping on him.
''Kamui!'' Said Kakashi as soon as he saw Kakuzu land in a clearing in front of him, just as he had planned. He wouldn't waste any time to let the dangerous criminal get his bearings.
Kakuzu yelled in pain when he noticed a strange sensation in his chest. ''What is this?!'' Thought the man as part of his torso started being sucked into a black hole-like vortex. He extended his right arm, using the strings to impale the ground beside him and pull himself towards it.
Kakashi saw this and focused eve more Chakra on his Sharingan, making the Kamui stronger and not letting Kakuzu escape.
Kakuzu realized that he wasn't getting out of this. He used his last moments to curse the Konoha brats for killing him, to curse himself for losing to them, and more importantly to curse the Kyuubi Jinchuuriki for leaving him so weakened to lose to these amateurs. The ancient man yelled in pain as a big chunk of his chest was absorbed into the void, taking his last heart away and dying instantly.
Kakashi contemplated Kakuzu's motionless body before sighing in relief. They had just faced an Akatsuki and won, that was always something to be proud of.
''Kakashi-Sensei!'' Said Sakura as she arrived at the clearing, landing just beside the Sharingan user. ''Are you alright?!''
''I'm fine, Sakura'' Said Kakashi. ''That last show of teamwork did the trick. Good job, by the way''
''I'm glad'' Said Sakura with a grateful smile before turning to look at Kakuzu's body with concern. ''Is he really dead?''
''It seems that way'' Said Kakashi.
''Thank goodness'' Said Sakura. ''We are lucky, it seems this one wasn't as strong as the others'' Commented the medic. She remembered How strong Itachi and Sasori had been, and while Kakuzu wasn't a pushover he didn't feel quite at the level of the others.
''He didn't seem to be at full capacity when we fought him'' Commented Kakashi.
''What do you mean by that, Kakashi-Sensei?'' Asked Sakura with a raised eyebrow.
''His movements were strangely sluggish for someone of Kakuzu's caliber'' Said Kakashi. ''Also, his Jutsu arsenal was lacking. I feel that he wasn't able to use his full power'' Kakashi had fought enough people to have an instinct for battles and he could read his opponents really well, and in all the time they had been fighting Kakuzu it felt like something was missing.
''Still, whatever the case I'm glad that we pulled through'' Said Sakura.
''It's not over yet, we have to help Sai first and get Naruto back'' Said Kakashi. ''Let's go!''
''Right!'' Agreed Sakura and both of them were off.
Meanwhile, Hidan gritted his teeth as he held his abdomen with one hand as a small stream of blood poured from a wound in his stomach and pooled underneath him. The girl had managed to hurt him! That pathetic rat had actually managed to land a hit while he had not. He focused his gaze once more on the girl in front of him as an intense anger filled him. He pulled the chain in his other hand, retrieving his scythe as he vowed to skin the bitch alive.
''What's wrong? I thought you said you were going to squash me like a bug'' Mocked the girl.
''Now you have really pissed me off, you fucking whore!'' Yelled Hidan as he stepped on his pool of blood, using it to draw a circle around him with a triangle inside. Still, the only problem was that he needed to get a drop of blood from the girl, but that would be easy enough, he just had to find a way to make her screw up.
Kurotsuchi could not help but smirk in satisfaction. She had already seen how that technique worked, she wasn't stupid, she knew that the fucker needed a drop of her blood for his weird Jutsu to work and he didn't have jack.
Then, a certain sound grabbed Kurotsuchi's attention, she couldn't recognize what it was at first but after paying more attention she could tell that it sounded like pained groans. Kurotsuchi scanned the cave, trying to find the source of the noise until att the very end of the place she could make out the familiar figure of Naruto, if just barely.
Kurotsuchi widened her eyes in panic and concern once she realized that Naruto was indeed in the cave.
''Naruto, is that you?! I'm here, ca you hear me?!'' Yelled Kurotsuchi at the boy, but he didn't answer back. He had to be unconscious, but if that was the case he had to be in such pain that he still moaned in suffering, maybe even agonizing! She had to end this and fast.
Hidan noticed that the girl finally saw Naruto. He was about to curse his luck that she had found her target, but then an idea came to him. He smiled cruelly at his new strategy.
''You seem to care about the idiot'' Commented Hidan grabbing Kurotsuchi's attention. ''So guess what? For getting in my way I'm going to take out all my rage on that moron'' Said the madman, grabbing his scythe and a handful of Shurikens as he turned to Naruto.
Kurotsuchi watched in horror the weird action of the sadist, she realized what he intended to do. He would not be crazy enough to attack Naruto as he needed him alive, right? But then she saw Hidan throw the Shuriken at the blond and she rushed in panic to block the sharp tools. Her improved speed barely managed to get between Naruto and the projectiles in time to block most of them with her sword while a few buried themselves in her arms and legs. She shrieked in pain at the deep wounds in her limbs. But with Naruto so close to her she attempted to grab him and make a run for it, but as soon as she turned around to retrieve the blond she felt three more blades embed themselves on her back, eliciting a louder yell of agony. She fell to her knees as the scythe was yanked off from her back and into Hidan's hands.
Hidan laughed like a maniac at the girl's suffering. His plan had worked! The dumb bitch really left her guard down just to save the idiot. ''You retarded whore! You walked right into my trap!'' Yelled the Jashinist before licking the blood from his weapon, turning his skin black with a white pattern resembling a skeleton.
Kurotsuchi stood up with great effort, cursing under her breath as she turned around to face Hidan. She didn't have time to ponder on what had just happened as she rushed at the Akatsuki member, sword in her hand ready to strike him down.
Hidan saw the girl coming and knew that she had no choice but to try and reach him before he killed her. But it would be in vain, her speed had taken quite a hit from those Shuriken wounds and he had already a sharp metal rod in his hand, ready to strike his own heart and the girl's too. ''This is the end. Praise Jashin-Sama, bitch!''
Kurotsuchi was almost upon Hidan when she saw the crazy bastard bury his own weapon in his heart, all with a face of sadistic arousal.
Hidan smiled mockingly as the girl stopped her charge just a few yards in front of him, clasping her chest and lowering her face in pain. He started to laugh and bask in his victory when in the blink of an eye the girl resumed her rush and in a quick swipe, she beheaded him.
Hidan's face had already turned from glee to confusion before his head hit the ground. His skull rolled along the ground until he was left facing upwards and in just a moment he saw Kurotsuchi towering over him with disdain on her face but very much alive.
Hidan was at a loss for words for a moment before he found his voice again and pure wrath invaded him. ''This is not possible! How are you alive?!''
Instead of answering him, Kurotsuchi kicked his head towards his body. It rolled painfully until Hidan had a good look of his own corpse, and what caught his attention was the blood circle he had drawn, the one he had been standing over, completely distorted! How wat it possible? How had the girl ruined its shape?
As Hidan wondered hos Kurotsuchi had gotten the best of him, said girl grabbed the man's scythe and slammed it down on Hidan's head, the blades going through his skull and pinned it down to the cave's floor, causing the madman's yells to fill the cave.
Kurotsuchi glared down at the remains of the man with content. ''You are the one who fell into my trap, asshole'' Earlier, when she had spat hew quicklime, Hidan didn't realize that it wasn't quicklime what she had used, but ash. Then she had slowly and sneakily coated almost the entirety of the cave's floor with it, forming a layer of hardened ash, ash that she could still control. After the moron had drawn his strange symbol on the ash, Kurotsuchi simply scrambled the ash under the circle messing its shape when he hadn't been paying attention.
She really wished that she could take her time skinning the fucker alive, but getting Naruto safe and sound to Konoha was way more important. And now that she remembered the object of her affections, Kurotsuchi turned around to rush at the blond still sitting in the back of the cave.
As soon as she crawled in front of the blood to check on him, Kurotsuchi brought a hand to her mouth in horror. The boy was unconscious, his jacket had been ripped open to reveal his chest covered in deep cuts just like his face. Also, he was caked in dirt and blood and squirmed in pain from time to time.
''Oh my god, Naruto'' Muttered the concerned girl with glassy eyes. Had she accepted to come with him this may not have happened, this was her fault. But this was not the time to be blaming herself, there would be plenty of time for that later, right now she had to get him out of there. So, with great care and tenderness, she took the boy in her arms, ignoring the pain of her own wounds as she stood up. She made her way to the exit of the cave, all while giving looks full of guilt to Naruto and ignoring Hidan's profanities being directed at her.
Once she made her way outside, both Kakashi and Sakura landed right in front of her. They both seemed surprised to see her while she just eyed them calmly.
''Took you guys long enough'' Said Kurotsuchi plainly.
Sakura's questions regarding Kurotsuchi's presence had to be put on hold when she saw the state that Naruto was in. Instead, she went over to Kurotsuchi and made her put Naruto on the ground before she went to check on him. ''I'm sorry we weren't here earlier, Naruto'' Said Sakura as she passed a Chakra coated hand over him. ''I promise I'll make it up to you''
''How is he?'' Asked Kakashi with worry.
''He has several lacerations and I think he also has a couple of fractured ribs'' Said Sakura as she continued to both heal and examine her teammate. ''Thank God for the Kyuubi's healing or this could have killed him long ago'' Concluded the medic with a lump in her throat. Luckily, due to the Kyuubi's insane regenerating factor, Naruto would most likely only need a couple of days at most at the hospital to be up and running again, but that didn't make seeing him like this easier.
''But he will be fine, right? You can heal him, right?'' Asked Kurotsuchi at the border of desperation.
''I will stabilize him, but after that we should take him to Konoha as soon as possible. But yes, he will be fine in the end'' Said Sakura much to Kurotsuchi's relief. ''Where is Sai, we have to go as soon as possible'' Added the pink-haired girl, remembering their last team member.
Kakashi already suspected what was going on, but let Kurotsuchi answer.
''He never came'' Admitted Kurotsuchi. ''I made him trade places with me without anyone knowing''
A look of realization hit Sakura before she nodded in understanding. ''I see'' Said the medic as she continued to heal Naruto. She didn't feel like berating Kurotsuchi for what she did, even if she had gone against her orders she couldn't really fault her for wanting to help Naruto. Also, the Iwa girl was already going to get in enough trouble when they got back without Sakura making things hard for Kurotsuchi already.
''I'm sure you already realize that what you just did by coming here could have serious repercussions back in Konoha, so I will spare you the lecture'' Said Kakashi to Kurotsuchi. ''Personally, I'm glad that you helped us in getting Naruto back, but please try to at least tell us about it in the future'' Kakashi already knew that Kurotsuchi was a good girl despite being from Iwa, and he didn't doubt that her intentions were good but this had been a risky move, having at least consulted her concerns with them would have been more preferable.
''I'm glad, but there is no need for thanks. I did this because I wanted to help Naruto just as much as you'' Said Kurotsuchi. ''If the price to pay for naruto's safety is the Hokage using me as her personal punching bag so be it''
''If it helps you feel any better, I'll try to speak on your behalf with the Hokage, but that might not help you. But I'll still try'' Said Kakashi. He knew that disobeying direct orders from the Hokage was playing with fire, but he could hardly be angry at the girl if it was to help Naruto.
''Thanks'' Said Kurotsuchi.
''By the way, what happened to the other Akatsuki?'' Asked Kakashi.
Kurotsuchi signaled the cave behind her with her thumb before responding. ''beheaded and rotting in there''
Kakashi was surprised to see that she had handled Hidan by herself. She was certainly a prodigy. ''Still, we should think of a more permanent way to deal with him'' If he was really immortal what was stopping any of his comrades to come look for him and reattach his head?
''I already thought about that'' Said Kurotsuchi before she made some hand seals and smashed her palms against the ground. After a moment, both Shinobi watched at the cave behind them started falling apart until it collapsed on itself, burying forever anyone and anything inside of it.
''Good thinking'' Said Kakashi before he faces the girl again. ''Now we should get those wounds of yours patched up''
''It's fine. I'll tend to them later. Just focus on Naruto'' Said Kurotsuchi.
''I had a feeling you would say that, but okay'' Responded Kakashi. ''Just don't overdo it''
Kurotsuchi nodded before she went back to glance at the still form of Naruto laying before Sakura. She had done it. She managed to get Naruto back from the Akatsuki's clutches. No matter what the Hokage had in store for her once she found out what she had done, she would face it with her head high, as Naruto always did in the face of danger. Knowing that Naruto was safe was enough for her, so whatever happened to her when she went back she could at least rest easy that had been true to her heart. All that she asked was to talk to Naruto again.
Author's note:
I know I have been gone for a while but at least I hope the chapter's length can kinda make up for that. I hope. One thing I hate whenever I disappear for long is that whenever I come back I feel rusty as hell and this time is no exception, I'm always second guessing everything I put into words in a story and it just makes me progress slower which in turn makes me even rustier. sigh.
Anyway, I'm excited for what comes next, I have a lot of plans for the next arc now that we are done with this one! I promise it will be good. Now I wish I can do it faster next time...
And as always, please review or PM if you have the chance! I have been very busy lately and I haven't been able to answer every single PM but I do promise that I read them all. See you guys later.
