~In an unknown place~

"I believe the time has come to strike again and more ferociously." A voice said.

"Worse than we did 17 years ago?" Another voice asked.

"We will strike more than just one kingdom this time."

"When should we strike?"

"In two days time is when we will claim our first victim in 17 years."

A low chuckle was heard that rose in crescendo to a loud villainous laugh.

~Meanwhile in the kitchen at the castle of Fire~

Cooks were rushing around getting the engagement party preparations ready. A dark-skinned maid snuck up to a particular one and covered his eyes. "Guess who?" She purred into his ear. Chouji smiled, "Is it the love of my life, Karui?" She giggled as he turned around. He gave her a light kiss on the lips and told her he has to get back to work. She smiled and as he passed by she lightly slapped his butt. She hummed as she made her way to Lady Ino's chamber to change her sheets.

~Along the lakeside~

The group of outcasts journeyed to the village, chattering lowly so as to not gain attention. Upon arrival they parted ways to get what they needed.

Rock Lee went to the local market and stocked up on salted meats, produce and bread. As he was leaving the market he ran into a beautiful bluenette. "I am so sorry my beautiful flower! Let me help you up." She giggled and took his hand. "My name is Ami. What is yours?" He blushed at her beauty, kissed her hand and said energetically, "My name is Rock Lee and it is a youthful pleasure to meet you!" She giggled at his enthusiasm and asked, "You don't seem to be from around here." "I am a traveler. I am on a journey with a group of people to find the meaning of a particular symbol." Ami's eyes shined. "Wow, so adventurous. What does the symbol look like?" He drew it on a piece of paper. She looked down in dismal and said, "I have never seen that symbol before. I am sorry."

He saw her downcast face and grabbed her chin to direct her sight to his. "That's no problem, my youthful flower. I met you and I am happy because of that." Ami blushes crimson. He lets go of her chin, and bids her farewell. "When will I ever see you again?" She asks. "That my flower, I do not know. But if I am in the area I will visit." And with that he was off. Ami touched her chin and smiled, she liked a man with passion.

Meanwhile, Suigetsu and Tenten were at the blacksmith's shop across the village. Suigetsu was admiring the swords and asking for a custom-made while Tenten was gushing about the new types of weapons. She reached down to grab a particular dagger when Suigetsu's hand brushed against hers. They both instantly pulled back as if they were burned. The blacksmith eyed them with a smile. 'Ah young love.' They quickly paid for their weapons and were waiting for Suigetsu's custom sword to be finished. They sat together awkwardly. The sexual tension was very thick even Suigetsu's sword would have trouble cutting it. Tenten broke the silence and said, "I need some fresh air. I will be back." Suigetsu, confused with her awkward behaviour, let her be. When she came back, the sword was finished and they both left the shop. The tension was still in the air and Suigetsu had enough. He took her to a secluded area and said, "What's wrong with you?" She didn't respond. "Why are we awkward now?" She looked down and said, " Is there something between us?" He looked dumbfounded for a moment and then understood. With a coy smile he said, "Let's find out." She looked confused until he pressed his lips against hers in a light kiss. They pulled away, contemplating the kiss. "I guess not, no spark in that kiss." She laughed. "Yeah, it's like kissing a cousin or something." That earned him a swat on the head. They laughed as they walked side by side, knowing now where they stand with eachother.

Sakura made her way to the apothecary. People passing by eyed her with confusion. 'Probably the pink hair.' She entered the shop and asked the keep for certain ingredients. He watched her carefully. 'Pink hair, and knowledge of potions. She must be a witch. She could be a threat.' He sent a hawk to the castle telling the King of his findings while trying to stall the woman. After spending an hour in the apothecary, Sakura leaves the shop to be confronted with guards. They grab her and she screams. Fighting back, she pushes one down and runs. They catch up to her and restrain her, dragging her to the castle dungeons.

Locked behind bars, Sakura sobs. She pleads with the guards that she meant no harm. She is just making medicine for her group of travelers. They shake their heads at her and ignore her pleas.

Naruto and Kiba approach random people asking about the symbol. Some shake their heads and some ignore them. "Man, this is hard work." Kiba said. They each buy an apple and sit down to rest. "Maybe my clan is forgotten." Naruto says dismally. Kiba tries to cheer him up. "I don't think so, maybe it's right under our noses." They both laugh sarcastically. They throw the cores away and walk to their meeting spot when suddenly, they hear a scream. "That's Sakura's scream! She's in trouble!" They rush to meet the others to see Sakura is not there. "Where's Sakura?" He asks. They all shrug. Panicked the group splits up and searches the village in pursuit of their friend.