Hello. Sorry for updating so late. This really took a long time and I have had so much to do. I have gone through a tough period in my life, but I hope that has enhanced my writing abilities in some way. Here is the next chapter, with both romance and action! I hope you will enjoy it and that you will continue to stick with me. I truly appreciate all the reviews I have received. Don't forget to review now too and tell me what you think.

Chapter 5

The dark curtains of night flowingly covered the endless heavens. The pure stars awoke from their slumber. The rich trees blew monotonously in the wind. The five chuunins hastily, yet calmly jumped from branch to branch. Naruto lead his trustworthy group confidently. They were adapted to the enviroment of the luxerious forest. They were like grasshoppers, flickering rapidly and elegantly through the gentle leaves.

Naruto had arranged the group in a certain way. Neji, Lee, Naruto, Sakura and Kiba. Eyes, body, energy, mind and smell. This was the thought behind the line. Shikamaru had often effortlessly helped him with useful strategies. Kakashi had also given him several stern lessons on this matter. He slowly turned his head to observe Sakura. Her shining, pink hair fluttered gracefully as she followed the group. They had now continuously been moving fluidly for two hours.

"Alright everyone. Let's stop here for the night." Naruto announced, loudly. The whole group landed faithfully on the forest floor, where a carpet of leaves delicately covered it. They were considerably sheltered by the trees and there was a little stream flowing vividly by. They could rest here till the morning.

"We should build a fire." Lee suggested, lively. "I'll go find some sticks." He added as he eagerly disappeared behind the swaying trees. Neji kneeled by the stream and collected some of the water in a bottle. Naruto switched his gaze to Sakura. Their different eyes met. She smiled weakly as she placed her bag on the grass. He could not help turning back and looking at her all the time. She looked tired, but her emerald eyes were still full of hope and life. It was encouraging to see.

"Naruto, will this do?" Lee asked, displaying his pile of sticks proudly. Naruto swiftly turned to face him with curious eyes.

"That's great." Naruto answered, nodding with approval. Kiba came and hurriedly gathered the sticks from Lee and placed them in the ring of stones. Akamaru was frolicking by his side cheerfully. When Naruto shifted his gaze in search of Sakura's soothing face, it was no where to be seen. He secretly scurried away to find her. He wondered where she had gone.

He followed a winding path through the delicate, yet strong trees and soon came to a small opening, where the grass was a bright emerald, just like her eyes. You could fully see the sky here. It was lovely, with countless stars that wonderfully stained the dark sky. The moon was aloft, radiating a warm light. It was as if it was smiling brightly. He came to notice Sakura, her curtain of pink hair which was now loose, which swayed magnificently from side to side. It caressed her face, as did the gentle wind. She turned around and gave him an encouraging and warm smile. Her eyes beamed with kindness.

"Where are you running off to?" He asked, with a warm, curious tone. She let her eyes enchantingly wander to the singing grass.

"I needed to go somewhere.. Somewhere calm and open." She whispered, softly. She slowly sat down and indicated him to join her with a discreet nod. Naruto followed her movements.

"Sit with me?" She asked, tenderly.

"Yeah." He answered, positively. He proceeded over to her and eagerly sat down. The soft grass generously welcomed him, tickling his back as he lay down.

"I spoke to Sasuke before I left. That is why I was late." She began, carefully. Naruto looked at her sternly.

"Did you tell him?" He questioned, seriously, although he was convinced that Sakura would never put Sasuke in danger.

"No. He respected the mission's secrecy, but I did tell him that you were the leader." She answered, quietly.

"You did? What did he say?" A cunning chuckle escaped from his lips. He felt so proud. Sakura smiled.

"He said that I should look out for you." She admitted, boldly. Naruto's eyes drooped with disappointment, but soon a smile reappeared on his sunkissed face. He was actually quite content to know that Sasuke had started to become concerned with his friends. Before he would just hide it in his frozen heart.

Sakura thought about Sasuke's touch on the bridge. It was caring and soft, but did not fill her with a feeling of warmth and security, like Naruto's touch did. It did indeed make her feel safe and happy, but Naruto's was filled with kindness and concern. It made her feel something inside her heart. Naruto was starting to take over Sasuke's place there. She looked at him.

"Hey, are you going to sleep?" She asked. She sounded offended but was laughing lightly between her pure words. Naruto gave her a cunning stare before suddenly pulling her down, quickly, yet with great gentleness.

"Hey, what are you doing?" She protested, giggling. Laughters that contained true joy followed shortly afterwards, where they rolled around lightly, play fighting like young children. Their movements soon ended and Sakura had beaten Naruto. She was on top of him, their breaths touching each other soothingly.

"I'm the winner." She said, happily, yet teasingly. She was triumphantly above him, staring at his bottomless eyes. They eventually stopped laughing and just looked at each other, breathing heavily. Her pink hairstrands were like soft waves from a calm sea, timidly brushing his face. He was the sand.

Naruto truly knew that he could easily get lost in her eyes, for they were limitless. They were vibrant and glistened like the precious stars above him. Staring at her, she slowly lowered her head. Her captivating eyes were closed lightly. He closed his too and he could feel her soft lips caringly caressing his.

He raised a hand to softly play with her untamed, yet beautiful hair. She gently stroked his strong jawline with her shy fingers. They slowly changed their positions to their sides, his arms protecively holding her. Their lips lovingly played with each other. The last kiss was soft and strong. He placed his chin above her head, stroking her back. She rested her head against his chest and could hear and feel the tattoo of his rapid heartbeat.

"It beats like this when I am around you." She could hear him say, warmly. She glanced at him and he was smiling brightly.

"And you are here." She said, taking his strong hand and directing it to her heart, with a smile on her face. She placed it on her chest and he could feel it beat calmly.

"Never think otherwise." She added, trapped in his tender gaze. They kissed softly one last time.

'This feeling. It feels so right.'

They walked together back to the camp. The dancing fire was flickering brightly, an orange glow consuming it. The rest of the team were sitting around it, drawing in the warmth it radiated beautifully.

"We should put that out soon as to not draw attention. I don't want to take any chances, even if we are rather sheltered." Naruto suggested as he stepped over to them. After some time they killed the vibrant flame and unrolled their sleepingbags.

"Someone should stand guard." Naruto said, staring at the dancing trees, swaying side by side.

"I'll do it." Lee offered, feeling still rather energetic.

"Great. I'll take over after 2 hours." Naruto replied, positively. They agreed to this and all of them rested, except for Lee, who sat on a silver stone by the smooth river, wathcing and listening for suspicious activity.

Naruto happened to lie next to Sakura, who was already captured in a deep slumber. He watched her breath preciously. She had the most angelic appearance and he truly knew now, that he was in love with her. He distantly fingered a loose strand of hair that was near him. Her hair was remarkably like the sparkling river beside them, flowing softly outwards on her pillow. His eyes started feeling considerably heavy and he soon fell asleep too. His last thought was of Sakura's radiant and smiling face.

Naruto slowly opened his eyes, feeling the soft and gentle rain on his face. The sky was a mournful grey colour. As his vision became clearer, he noticed that he had not been woken up by his comrades to stand guard. He registered that it was quite early, as they were surrounded by an evanescence of morning mist. He noticed Neji standing loyalfully on guard. The others were absent.

"Neji?" He asked, confused. Neji slowly turned to face him. He was calm. His bright and snow white eyes told him this.

"Good morning." He muttered, smiling slightly. Naruto stared at him cluelessly.

"Wh-Why did'nt you wake me up?" Naruto asked. He was confused, yet energetic.

"The rest of the team felt that it was wisest to let the leader rest, when you have the most responsibilities. I was awake anyway when it was your turn." He answered, sincerely. Naruto, not expecting such a reply, felt a warm feeling in his heart. His smile reflected the feeling in his heart, as it jumped joyfully.

"You did not have to do that." He said between a heartily chuckle. Neji only smiled, for with his keen eyes, he could see the gratitude and satisfaction on his bright face. He stood up and his body felt strong and ready for a new day. The rest had clearly paid off.

"Let's assemble the team and leave this area." He suggested as he gathered his things. Neji nodded and immediately left in search for the others, who were out scouting. The others had already packed their belongings. The mercyless rain began to fall harder, like piercing arrows.

'Crap.. This rain is annoying.' Naruto thought, irritated. The trees were swooping more, for they were weary and could not bear the strong rain. The mist had vanished completely.

'I hope this is not a bad sign.' He never really did like the rain. It was cold and reminded him of sad feelings and harsh memories. He remembered standing in the ruthless rain once as he stared at his own home, not wanting to enter, for he knew that the loneliness would swallow him there.

He was also reminded of the time when Kakashi found him wounded after his fateful battle with Sasuke. It was raining then too. The rain reminded him of that painful loneliness and that unchangable loss. He shook the thought away though, trying to keep focus. For his team. For her.

"Naruto?" He heard a timid voice ask.

"AH. Sakuraaa." He instantly hid away his concerned face and forcefully formed a face of confidence. His characteristic smile appeared too.

"Are we ready to go?" He asked, trying his best not to let his mask shatter. He did not want to trouble Sakura more with his worries. They all responded with a nod and they immediately jumped in the air. Floating through the trees, Naruto tried to rid of the thoughts in his mind.

After quickly travelling through the forest, the team agreed to search for tracks more thouroughly on the ground. They landed swiftly on the wet forest floor, which shimmered blantly.

"Everyone scatter, but don't go too far." Naruto commanded. Neji was the most effective piece here, with his remarkable eyes. After some time, they all started to emerge as one again. Kiba sat down and let a deep sigh escape from his lips.

"We have not found any tracks." Kiba complained, softly.

"We'll find something soon. Don't worry." Naruto reassured, trying to sound positive. Sakura stared at Lee who wordlessly began to wander behind the trees.

"Lee.." She muttered before discreetly following him without the rest of the team noticing. He had seemed distant the past few hours.

After all the trials they had faced, she admired him. He had always been a source of support and comfort. A friend. It was truly rare of her to worry about him, who reminded her of Naruto in many ways. Walking down a straight path, she suddenly came to an opening, adorned with shining green grass. Darkness heavily dominated the entire heavens. She could feel the rain on her flawless face better here. Lee was standing in the middle, his back turned to her.

"What are you doing, Lee?" She asked, her voice woven with concern. Turning his head, he looked at her intently.

"Can I ask you something, Sakura?" Lee abruptly asked, ignoring Sakura's question.

"What is it?" She replied.

"Is your relationship with Naruto stronger than friendship?" He asked, slowly. Her eyes widened with alarm.

"Why do you ask?" She pushed, trying to evade the question.

"Because I.." He began, but could not complete his sentence.

"Lee.." She whispered. When he did not react, she felt it was important for him to know of her and Naruto's developing relationship.

"I think I really see Naruto's true heart now." She began. "It is something I have begun to fall in love with." She ended, clearly. He turned completely around, eyes big and glowing with an unreadible corona.

"Fine. Even though I do have feelings for you, all I want for you is to be happy." He said, trying to smile bravely. She was touched by his words. His heart beared unlimited understanding which was an admirable quality.

"Lee.. Thank you." She forced, for she was stung by the strong emotion of gratitude. She stepped closer to him and hugged him gently.

"I am sorry I can't return your feelings, but I want you to know, that I really care about you." She said, timidly. She let go of him and stroked his shoulder.

"Let's head back." She suggested, smiling. His onyx eyes closed. "Sure." Barely taking a few steps, Lee's eyes noticed something on the ground. He halted and kneeled down. Sakura turned around to observe her friend.

"I have found a track." He admitted, sternly.

"Where does it lead?" She asked, sounding pleased, but was still completely serious.

"It stops here." He uttered. She looked at the strange mark on the ground. All of a sudden, she did not feel safe. An aura of discomfort surrounded her. Her gaze landed on Lee, who looked rather uncalm. The atmosphere was heavy and almost unbearable.

"What is this feeling?" Sakura asked, sharply. Before she could react, a dark, intimidating shadow consumed Lee. Behind him was a dangerous sillhouette, ready to attack.

"Lee, behind you!" She warned with fright. Lee turned around to meet his opponent and barely managed to block the furious attack that was inflicted upon him. The impact was so strong, that his body was deflected and pushed back. He landed on the ground unsteadily, falling to his side.

"Lee!" She called, nervously. She focused her attention on the shadow and hastily pulled out a shining kunai, already devising some sort of strategy.

"Stand back, Sakura." Lee called as he regained his posture. Sakura's eyes darted to Lee, than to the body.

"Orochimaru?" She asked, readying her sharp blade. A cold laughter came from the shape, trickling down her spine.

"Correct. How did you know?" The voice uttered, before the shape shed off the darkness, revealing a pale face with sharp and golden eyes. Sakura's next action was precise and quick. She created a clone with her slender fingertips. Icy chakra enveloped her entire body. The clone appeared and moved like lightning, instantly making its way towards the rest of the group. She had to inform the others of their encounter.

Lee, thinking accuratly, distracted Orochimaru by facing him. He kneeled and sweeped his foot quickly, intending to trip Orochimaru. The man jumped fluidly and raising his foot, tried to kick him. Lee managed to evade by leaning flexibly backwards.

His entire body was in a position of 90 degrees. Sharply straightening his back, he executed two mighty punches on his chest, which startled Orochimaru. In the process, Lee tried to kick him strongly and quickly. However, Orochimaru, after protecting himself with his arms, formed his sapphire chakra in his hands and released it with immense force. Lee was struck by it, but managed to land on his feet on the soft grass.

Sakura invaded by gathering her chakra to her fists and concentrating deeply. She unleashed the energy precisely as she brought her fists to his feet. The whole ground shattered underneath him. Small pieces of earth decorated the sky, before showering on top of them, like falling stars.

Orochimaru was actually amused as he lost his balance. Sakura brought her soft leg to her face, before attempting to slam it down on Orochimaru.

Orochimaru dodged it completely. He was suddenly behind her. Her eyes widened considerably. She felt something sharp against her back. She closed her eyes. She felt no pain. She could only hear her name being called.

"Sakura! Sakura!"

Lee's voice woke her up and her eyes shot open. A thick cloud suddenly consumed her and her body disappeared. In her place was a thick log.

"Where are you?" He snickered. He automatically looked up and saw Sakura floating through the air towards him. She was dangerously close to him, kunai gripped tightly in her hand. This time she felt an excruciating pain sting her stomach and she was brutally thrown in the opposite direction. She landed roughly on the ground, not being able to maintain her balance.

'Did I get him?'

She knew that was rather stupid of her to attack so closely. However, it was the only thing she could think of. She was letting her emotions drown her sensibility.

'Fool..'

She slowly looked up, only to see Orochimaru racing towards her. Lee tried to protect Sakura by facing Orochimaru. He executed a series of strong attacks and it seemed like they were dancing. The enemy disappeared, before unleashing a cold power. Suddenly, Lee could not move. His entire body was trapped. It was most likely a paralysis jutsu.

"Shit." He cursed, trying to break it with pure strength. It was useless. He did not give up though. Orochimaru reappeared in front of Sakura.

"Now it is your turn." He turned his penetrating eyes to her.

'What did he do to me? I did not register any ninjutsu. It felt like taijutsu. I can barely move.' She was thinking too much. She did not show any fear in her eyes. Only anger.

"Move, Sakura!" Lee called, aggressively. She tried to move, but could not.

"That was one of my strongest jutsu. It immobilizes the body completely. You really did cut me, but now you are trapped." He told her, wickedly. He touched his side, which was stained with blood. She gritted her teeth as she helplessly watched her opponent smile amusingly at her. She could hear Lee's worried and strangled voice.

Her strength could not prevail. Although she did not want to be protected, she could not help think of him at that moment.

'Naruto..'

"Oh.." Orochimaru muttered. He was distracted by something. Sakura managed to feel something. Was it him?

"Naruto?" She whispered. How could he appear when she was just thinking about him?

'Impossible..'

"I won't let you, Orochimaru.." She forced, staring at him coldly. He looked at her again with his wild eyes. Pleasure was painted on his face and he licked his lips with excitement.

Before she knew it, Orochimaru was no longer in front of her. Instead, a flickering flame full of life was there.

"Sakura, I told you.." She heard a hard voice near her. Her jade orbs looked up. A smiling, yet serious face caught her sight.

"Naruto.." She mumbled. This was not an illusion. He was really there.

'How can that be?'

"Nice Sakura. You managed to tell us so we could make it just in time." She heard Naruto say, proudly. Neji and Kiba were dealing with Orochimaru, who had been kicked away by Naruto. She remembered sending a clone. Still, she knew that it was just not that. There was something else. It was just him. A sparkling tear escaped from her eye.

Naruto was always there for her and always will be.

"Don't cry, Sakura.." He said encouragingly with a soft voice.

'Why is that you always make me feel safe and strong?'

"I'll help you." He offered. She nodded.

"We'll do this together." She said, reaching for him. He touched her hand.

The battle would be hard, but she knew that she was stronger when Naruto was by her side.

"Let's go!" Naruto shouted.

Phew! So, what do you think? The fighting part was really difficult to write. Hope you ejoyed it and that you will review! I promise this time that I will update more quickly. In the meantime, please be patient and take care of yourselves!