Raine in the Desert

by Hack Interrupted

Gaara finds the love of his life

4. Chapter 4

1

Gaara's woman was weak. Sasuke had to let her sleep for three hours before he could take more energy from her again. He refreshed himself and kept moving. Raine slept over his shoulder once more. It was easier to move with her unconscious. Sasuke kept running until dawn threatened to break. They weren't far from Cardiff now; Gaara's group was probably arriving in the city now.

Sasuke stopped beneath the last of the big trees in this part of the world. He set Raine down and stretched. I'll rest for an hour, no longer. Before he moved again he could take some more of Raine's strength. She didn't have much left to give. She'll be half dead by the time we reach Cardiff. That was alright. The Sound in Cardiff would fix them both right up. And then we'll go to Sand.

He smiled and sat back against the tree. Raine slept in the grass at his feet. "Orochimaru will be happy to see you again Raine." He chuckled quietly. "Do you remember Orochimaru? Hmm, maybe not. You were just a child then. It was a long time ago." Sasuke relaxed and closed his eyes. It didn't really matter if Raine remembered her mother's old friend or not. Orochimaru remembers you.

They stopped to rest and eat in Cardiff. Choji was starving and mowed his way through five specials. Gaara wasn't hungry but ate enough to keep his strength up. He finished a hot cup of tea and sagged in his seat some. His strength steadily came back; the traveling alone wasn't enough to keep him from recovering. It was the side effects of Sasuke's genjutsu fucking Gaara up.

The insomniac was desperate to sleep but every time Gaara closed his eyes he saw blood. Sitting here with his eyes shut Gaara could hear Temari talking with Shikamaru and Kankuro. He could remember murdering his siblings over and over again in hell. I crucified my family. I threw Kankuro's head at Temari. I…

Kakashi slipped into the seat beside the kazekage. "How are you holding up Gaara?"

"I'm fine." He looked at Kakashi grateful for the distraction.

"It's hard," Kakashi looked at his hands. "To get that crap out of your mind, ya know. It's just an illusion, but the shit sure as hell feels real enough. Whatever it was that Sasuke showed you, it wasn't real Gaara. It was Sasuke's way of torturing you."

Gaara sighed tiredly. Of course Kakashi understood what he was going through. "It's left me a little tired but I'll be alright."

"Rest when you can. You need it. Try and think more pleasant thoughts. It helps."

He nodded and closed his eyes. Raine Gaara thought back to kissing her in the garden beneath the moon. He tried to feel her in his arms. A lifetime with you. He lost himself in thoughts of the night he loved his wife.

"Any sign of Sasuke yet? Oi Ero sannin!"

Jiraiya stood in a tree watching the sun come up. "Nothing yet." Sasuke was likely several hours ahead of them and he had the woman with him. At least she's still alive. It could have been a lot worse.

When the sannin arrived Naruto was about to go critical. Jiraiya assisted Naruto crushing Sasuke with a double Rasengan. With Sasuke out at least I thought he was dead Jiraiya moved on to subduing Naruto. It was no easy chore. The sannin had been unconscious for close to an hour after their struggle.

Naruto's hands clenched into fists. "Sasuke," he growled. Naruto could see the strategy in taking Raine as a hostage but it was still a dirty cowardly thing to do. "She better be alright."

"I don't think Sasuke has killed her; he's still carrying her over one shoulder. They'll be in Cardiff soon." Jiraiya jumped down from the tree beside Naruto.

"Sasuke is going back to Orochimaru."

"Probably."

He looked up at Jiraiya. "What about Raine?"

"For the moment she is a political prisoner of the Sound. Orochimaru probably intends to use her against Gaara."

"Then we just have to catch up to them before Sasuke reaches Orochimaru."

Jiraiya nodded. "Sasuke isn't far behind Gaara. Perhaps they'll cross paths en route to Sand."

"Yeah, great. Gaara's gonna kick my ass for letting Sasuke get a hold of Raine."

"Maybe later Naruto; lets go." Still aching and tired Jiraiya started off for Cardiff.

Sasuke relaxed for about an hour, but he was too anxious to stay put. It would be easier to hide himself from the Konoha and Sand shinobi in Cardiff. He wanted a long hot bath and a big fat meal. Sound med nin could see to him and Raine. He could use a decent night's sleep in a real bed too. We'll stay the night in Cardiff and set out to meet Orochimaru in the morning.

This would be the last time he stopped until he reached his room in Cardiff. It was going to be a long day and he needed every ounce of energy he could steal from Raine. Sasuke stretched and went to the woman in the grass. He took her by the arms and she stirred. "Sorry Raine but this might hurt a bit."

What is happening to me? Is this a dream? It didn't feel real, it couldn't be real. People couldn't just go around sucking the life out of others could they? He's not a zombie…Sasuke is a vampire. He's killing me right now… "Gaara…"

It was almost a rush to take so much all at once. He dropped her before he killed her. Sasuke took a deep breath and let it out slowly. He felt much better. "That's more like it."

She could hear him, but she couldn't see him. She couldn't open her eyes. The lids were too heavy. "Monster…"

Sasuke laughed. "Calm down, you aren't dieing." He reached for her again and pulled her to sit up. "Get up, let's go."

"I can't." He was trying to drag her to her feet and succeeding. "Leave me…"

Sasuke got her over his shoulder. "You know I can't do that." He settled her weight; she was too weak to struggle against him. "Sleep. We'll be in Cardiff soon."

The kazekage's party had already left for Sand when Sasuke arrived with Raine. He had himself taken care of by one of the med nin around. He left his hostage with the med nin and went to take a bath. After a relaxing soak he ate like a pig. In the middle of his meal a sound ninja came in to give Sasuke an update. Sasuke let him speak and then he beat the crap out of him. "Don't ever interrupt me when I'm eating." Sasuke finished his dinner and sent a subordinate with a message to Orochimaru.

She woke thinking she heard voices; not close, but as if in another room. As she came awake she realized that she was in bed. Raine cautiously opened her eyes and looked around. She was in bed and covered in a simple room. Sasuke stood a few feet from the bed by the window peeking through the blinds at something. What the…

He heard her wake but went on watching a group of kids tagging a sign. He doubted she was going to run. By now she was probably too terrorized to do anything. "Are you feeling better Raine?"

She was, but she wasn't going to tell him that. He would just suck her strength away again. She propped herself up on her elbows. "Where are we?"

Sasuke smiled. "We're in a hotel room at the edge of the desert." He looked from the kids to her.

"Where's Gaara?"

"How should I know?"

Raine sat up. "Don't give me that bullshit! You're an enemy ninja. Of course you know where Gaara is!"

Finally catching on ne? "Gaara is on his way to Sand of course."

"What about us? What are you going to do with me?"

"I told you, we're going to Sand."

"You mean you're attacking Sand. Is that it?" Without looking at the door she was trying to judge its distance. Can I get away from him here?

Sasuke shook his head. "Don't even think you can run. I'm faster then you, besides," he moved to the edge of the bed and stared her down. "As long as you behave you'll see that I can be a nice guy."

Nice guy? That was it, she couldn't take it anymore. "You made me stab myself! I almost killed Gaara! You're a monster! A vampire!" She drew her legs up and looked at him revolted. "I fucking hate you!"

For a moment Sasuke just stared. "No seriously, tell me how you really feel." He laughed amused.

She forced herself to get up on her shaking legs and Raine pressed herself against the wall. Sasuke took a step her way. "Stay away from me!"

There was no way she could get away from him, he wasn't worried about that but watching her panic was kind of fun. "If you don't calm yourself I'll have to restrain you."

Yes, Raine was panicking but I'm not stupid asshole. There was one way to find out real quick where she was right now. "Fire! There's a fire in here! The room is on fire!"

"Why you little," Sasuke growled and lunged forward. He grabbed her and clamped a hand over her mouth. He glared at her with black eyes. "You're a real smart ass you know that?"

She couldn't get away from him up against the wall like this, but she tried. Let go of me so I can scream damn you! Before she realized she was even doing it Raine brought her knee up into Sasuke's crotch.

Fuck! My nuts! He used the hand he had over her face to overpower her again. "That fucking hurt bitch." He took her down to the bed and keeping his hand over her mouth. She was trying to push him away so he grabbed one of her flailing arms.

Oh shit that's it. I'm dead now. Raine couldn't push him off and it was hard to breath with him smothering her. She couldn't pry his hand away from her mouth either. He was all but sitting on her legs. Sasuke looked down at her and his eyes turned red. Oh…shit…

He didn't want to have to use the Sharingan. "You listen to me bitch. If you try something like that again I'll cut your fingers off. Do you understand me?"

"My…" He's fucking serious! Oh my god!

Sasuke heard footsteps in the hall. "If you don't behave for me, I'll fuck with your mind again. I'll make you obey me. Hell, I'll make you love me. It's been a wile since I've had a nice looking piece of ass." The footfalls stopped at the door. "So what's it gonna be Raine? Are you ready to behave yourself now?"

The proprietor knocked at the door. "Everything is alright?"

Sasuke glared at Raine. "Everything is fine."

"There was…a shouting?"

"Yeah I was getting my girlfriend off, do you mind. Beat it pops." Sasuke heard the old fart gasp and shuffle away. He lifted his hand off Raine's mouth watching her carefully.

She sucked in a few big breaths of air. Sasuke backed off a little. Shit. I thought he was going to kill me. She was sure his threats about mind control were true. She knew first hand he could do things like that. "I won' give you any more trouble."

That's what I thought. He sat on the bed and she sat up beside him. Sasuke sighed. "Am I really that repulsive to you? I'm taking you to Sand; it's where you want to go isn't it? Am I not doing you a favor?"

You sick monster. She stared at her hands in her lap. "Why are you taking me with you?"

Sasuke smiled a little. "Maybe I like your company."

She turned away from him angry and disgusted. "You want to use me against Gaara."

"If I can I will. I think we both know that."

Gaara... "Why can't you just leave him alone?"

"Because he's a bastard that deserves to suffer and die. He's a crazed murderer you know. He's even tried to kill me."

She turned to Sasuke frowning. "What are we still in school? Gotta get revenge for having your ass kicked ne?"

Bitch. "The Gaara I know is a monster."

"You're the monster."

Sasuke chuckled. "You think that because now he wears the kage's robes that all of his evil deeds can go unpunished? The world will be a better place with Sabaku no Gaara in his grave. His victim's souls will finally find peace."

"How can you say …?" Raine shook her head.

"Face it babe, your boyfriend is a killer. Why, he might even be killing someone right now." He smiled at the miserable look on her face. "Haven't you ever noticed Gaara smells like blood? It's the sand in his gourd. It's been soaked with the blood of countless victems. He uses that sand to crush people to death you know."

Her stomach rolled over. "Gaara… Gaara doesn't do that anymore."

"What do you think Gaara will do to the Sound ninja that attack his village? Nobles talk, ninja fight. He'll kill anyone that gets in his way."

"He'll fight to protect his home and his people."

"I know he will. That is why Gaara's opponent will be Orochimaru."

She had heard about the third sannin. He killed Gaara's father. "Is that who you're taking me to? Orochimaru?"

"He was pleased to hear that you were alive even though you couldn't kill Gaara."

"What are you talking about?"

Sasuke relaxed a little. "Orochimaru knew you when you were small. He knew your parents; your mother and your real father."

What bullshit is this? "I don't believe you."

"Of course you don't," he sighed. Your mothers name was Rhiannon wasn't it?"

Raine's mouth fell open. "How do you…?"

"You were five when your father murdered her. Your father and Orochimaru repressed your memories."

What! "My mother," Raine was becoming indignant.

Sasuke lifted a hand. "I know. You think she drown after a flood. That's what they made you think."

"You're crazy."

He laughed. "Alright Raine, tell me one memory you have of your real father."

"I don't have one." She frowned at Sasuke.

"And memories of your mom, do you have a lot of those?"

The truth was no. "She died when I was five. There wasn't time to make a lot of memories."

Sasuke nodded. "Your step father was quick to be rid of you after Rhiannon passed on. He was always afraid that your father would come back and kill him too."

Raine looked away. Whatever, don't listen to him. He's just messing with my mind. "If you say so."

"If I say so ne? What's this? Are you actually going to listen to me?"

She cut her eyes over to him and gave him her best evil glare. "Considering the alternative, yeah. You are one seriously fucked up dude."

Sasuke broke up laughing. Fantastic. "I guess you could say that."

I've been kidnapped by a lunatic. Raine looked toward the window. Afternoon light was shining through the blinds. How am I supposed to get away from him? What happened to Naruto and Jiraiya?

Sasuke got up and moved back to the window. "Are you hungry?"

"Are you gonna drug my food?"

"You are such a clever girl." He pushed the blind down with his finger. The hoodlums were gone. I didn't even hear them go. Well, maybe she is a little distracting. "There are some clean clothes for you at the foot of the bed. If you'll be good I'll let you change in the bathroom." There was no window in there, no way for her to escape but "Leave the door open."

She turned her head and saw the folded peasant's clothes. Trying to blend in with the crowd ne? "I need a hot shower."

"That's fine, just leave the door open."

Fuckin pervert. "I'm not getting undressed with the door open and you sitting out here."

Sasuke looked at her. "If you close the door I'll kick it in and come in after you."

He'll do it too the bastard. "I need some privacy."

"I never said I was going to watch you. It's enough to hear your movements. Go on, don't mind me." He turned back to the window leaving it up to her what to do next.

She stared the ninja down, but he seemed to have forgotten all about her. Finally she got up and took the clothes to the bathroom. She started the shower running and undressed with her back to the door. Raine hopped in behind the curtain as quick as she could. She didn't think Sasuke turned around. Creepy bastard.

He stood where he was listening to the sound of Raine washing her long hair. Don't forget to wash behind your ears. Sasuke turned toward the bathroom and grinned. He could see her naked silhouette behind the flimsy curtain. And to think, Gaara's hitting that shit. Three times in one night the scum. He thought about the memories Raine had that he had tapped into. You don't deserve her Gaara.

Desert ahead, desert behind and not a Sound ninja in sight. It would be dark soon. It was cooling off. Good for the dogs. Kakashi peeked down at Pakkun. He seemed to be holding up better now that the sand wasn't scalding his paws. "Pakkun?"

"We're out here alone Kakashi," the dog answered.

Neji had been using his Byakugan occasionally to scout ahead. "I've seen nothing since we left Cardiff," he spoke up beside Gaara.

"Akamaru doesn't smell anything either," Kiba added.

"We keep moving. We'll rest again before daybreak. It's a straight run across the desert," Gaara relayed.

"Better to keep moving at night anyway." Kakashi was sure it would be one hundred degrees in the shade when they got to Sand.

Pakkun thought the desert sucked. At least the sand was now beginning to cool instead of burn the delicate pads on his paws. He looked over at Akamaru. Kiba was on his back. The other dog had his nose in the wind. "I think the wind is changing directions. What do you say?"

Akamaru barked in agreement and Kiba sniffed the air. "I smell a lotta dust in the air."

"Dust?" Temari raised a brow. "Like blowing sand?"

"A sandstorm?" Kankuro grunted.

"It is that time of year," Gaara sighed.

Kakashi cut his eyes over to Gaara. "You don't seem worried about it."

"I'm not," Gaara replied. "When we get close enough I'll just cut us a path through it."

Gai looked over at Gaara. "A path?"

"I still control the sand. It's not a problem."

That's why Gaara is the kazekage. He watched his brother from behind. "Keep your nose in the wind buddy," Kankuro directed at Kiba.

Kiba laughed. "You better get me good and drunk later pal."

Kankuro nodded. "You better believe it."

Lee was sure Naruto was on his way to Sand by now. "You might want to keep your senses alert for Naruto. He's probably behind us."

"That guy can't stay outta nothing," Kiba was pretty sure Naruto was coming too. He aint gonna miss this party. Not for all the ramen in Konoha.

"Naruto knows his way to Sand," Gaara assured them. He was still holding on to hope that the big mouth hadn't said anything disturbing to Raine. By now she must know something. I wonder what Tsunade told her.

"Don't worry about Naruto. Tsunade sama was expecting Jiraiya in Konoha for the tournament. I'm sure he can rail Naruto in." Kakashi informed.

"Oh, Jiraiya sama," Gai beamed. "He'll be making the trip to Sand with Naruto then?"

Kakashi stared ahead at the barren landscape. "Jiraiya wants to be wherever Orochimaru is. He wants him dead."

"Orochimaru is my kill," Gaara interjected. "If the mother fucker wants a kage fight I'll give him one. Sand will not fall to Sound. Ever."

Temari turned toward Gaara. There was a familiar dark look in his eyes. He's really pissed. "Right," she agreed.

I see Gaara's just as scary as ever. Gai nodded. "It's a chance to strike a heavy blow against the enemy. Especially if you can eliminate Orochimaru."

I have no other choice. "He's dead the moment he steps foot in Sand."

"There was still no sign of Sasuke when we left," Kakashi brought up. "He probably fled ahead of us to Orochimaru."

"I haven't smelled him yet," Pakkun answered Kakashi.

Gaara narrowed his eyes at the mention of the Uchiha. "He also needs to perish."

"Yes I know," Kakashi bowed his head. There was no other way. Kakashi would have to kill Sasuke even if it cost him his life.

Lee spoke up. "Please allow me to be the one to fight Uchiha Sasuke. I can fight him without looking at his eyes."

"Sasuke has become quite strong Lee," Gaara warned.

Lee nodded. "I have trained very hard since Sasuke left Konoha in hopes of being able to compete with him again someday."

"This isn't a tournament," Neji scolded. "Sasuke needs to die."

Lee frowned. "I understand that Neji. I will do what must be done."

"I'm sorry Lee but Sasuke is best left to me. He is my mistake after all," Kakashi insisted.

Sakura swallowed hard. "It isn't like that Kakashi sensei."

"Orochimaru ruined Sasuke," Gai mumbled to Kakashi.

Kakashi shook his head. "No, Itachi did."

Gai sensei fell silent and after a while Lee tried to change the subject. "I wonder how Raine san is doing back in Konoha."

Flippin out was Temari's guess. "She's gonna be mad at you Gaara."

"Probably," he sighed. He was sure he would be in shit for ditching her in Konoha and making her worry. That's okay. I can deal with that. It's better this way.

"Keh," Temari hissed through her teeth. "Probably nothing. If my man left me doped up in a hospital and went off to fight without telling me? Death."

Shikamaru cringed. That's good to know. At least now Gaara the perfect boyfriend isn't so perfect anymore. Shikamaru sighed. Temari was troublesome.

Gaara rolled his eyes. "We've been through this already Temari."

Big sister shook her head. "Yeah okay. Promise me you'll make it up to her then."

Temari was staring at him. To make anything up to Raine Gaara was going to have to live through it all and go back for her probably on my knees. "You have my word."

Kankuro smiled. "It's all good then kids. Now stay sharp. There's a storm kickin up out there somewhere and we're about to lose the light."

Akamaru barked and Kiba translated, "We're on it!"

As soon as they hit Cardiff Jiraiya took the brooding Naruto to the ramen shop. The sannin was working on his second bowl when he couldn't stand to see Naruto make that face anymore. "Take it easy Naruto. I'll go gather some information. You can go get us a room and rest."

"Gather information," Naruto grumbled. "This is no time to be getting drunk in the cat house. Raine has been kidnapped by Sasuke and Sand is about to be attacked by Sound! Damn you Ero sannin!"

Jiraiya frowned at Naruto. "No shit. If you were smart you would be keeping an eye out here for Sound."

"What about Raine damnit?"

"Sasuke had to come here; he might even still be here. Someone might have seen them."

"Sasuke and Raine are here?"

Jiraiya nodded. "Highly likely." The enemies were probably holed up in the hotels at the edge of the city. Unless they've all gone on to Sand already. But Sasuke, he's here. Resting and recovering himself.

"Then why should I be laying around a hotel room. I should be looking for them."

"I said find us a room Naruto. That means ask around a little first. Maybe we can even find out where they are."

It was a ray of hope in the darkness. Naruto hurriedly finished his ramen. I'll check every place in this city! "Too bad Kakshi sensei isn't here. Pakkun could pick up Sasuke's scent quick."

"Sorry Naruto, no dogs. Just us. I'll take the east side, you take the west. When you've found us a room or some information, come find me. Don't try and move against Sasuke on your own. We don't want Raine getting caught up in the fighting."

Naruto drank down his broth and set the bowl on the counter. "Right." He stood eager to begin his search for his former friend and the poor genie he had taken hostage. "Leave it to me, I'll find Sasuke and Raine. Then I'll kick his ass for kidnapping her."

Jiraiya set his chopsticks down. "Say alert Naruto. If you find them come get me at once." He pulled out his wallet and took out some cash to pay for their meal.

The younger ninja smiled. "Be seeing ya." Naruto took off to start pestering the locals.

Jiraiya watched him go and then got up himself. It was time to check the cat houses. Ninja on their way to war often visited a whore for one last fuck before they faced death. Let's see what the Sound are up to in this town.

Raine dried off and dressed in the shower after she killed the water. At least it gave her some privacy. She couldn't hear Sasuke but I smell chicken… She donned the familiar clothes of a commoner and stepped out of the bathroom drying her hair. There was a tray of something yummy smelling on the bed and her stomach growled. Crap, when was the last time I ate something?

Sasuke had given up on staring out the window; there was a much better view in here. He sat against the wall watching Gaara's pretty girl come out in clean clothes. It amused him she had dressed in the shower stall. Modest isn't she? "Hungry?"

She looked from the tray to the Uchiha. "Is it poisoned?"

"No. It won't kill you. If I wanted to kill you I'd just snap your neck."

Jerk. She narrowed her eyes at Sasuke. "How humane."

"Eat something. The food here is not too bad."

Raine was starving, but she wasn't sure she should eat. The food might not kill her, but it could be drugged. There was also the little matter of Sasuke being a life sucking vampire. She didn't want to keep her strength up if it was just going to feed him. "I'm not hungry." She turned back to the bathroom to hang up her towel.

Sasuke got to his feet. "If you don't eat I'll get a med nin to stick you with an i.v. Understand?"

She squeezed the towel frustrated. She was tired of Sasuke's frightening threats. "Do what you gotta do."

He lifted a brow at her. Raine hung up the towel and turned back to Sasuke frowning. Stubborn little thing. "What are you anorexic? Is that why you're so small and weak?" he badgered. He didn't want to go through the hassle of dealing with the medics again.

"Yep." Raine was defiant.

Pain in the ass. "If I take a bite and show you its fine, then will you eat it?" One bight wouldn't hurt. She would need to ingest at least a third of the tainted food to fall into a deep sleep.

"Do you eat food or do you just suck the life out of people?"

I see. "Oh, that. Don't worry about it. There's no need for me to do that again."

No need? "What do you mean?"

Sasuke shrugged his shoulders. "I was a little tapped out and in a hurry to get here. Draining chakra is an easy technique."

He was weak from fighting Naruto. Her stomach rumbled again and her traitorous eyes moved back to the tray of food. "You're not going to do that to me again?"

"No." He folded his arms across his chest. "Do I need to taste test it for you princess?"

It's drugged, I know that but… Shit I'm starving! "I can't eat alone; you'll have to share it all with me. You eat half."

Clever girl. Half was enough to put them both out for a while. Sasuke laughed. "Really?" He could be awake before her and his sleep would be a light one.

She cut her eyes back up to Sasuke. One bite my ass. If I'm going down you're going with me. "Yeah really."

Sasuke was all smiles. " Alright. Then let's eat. I'll eat what I can but I've already had a big dinner. Five plates."

"You ninja sure can eat." She went and sat on one side of the bed, her kidnapper went and sat on the other; the tray sat between them. Raine picked up the chopsticks and broke a piece of chicken off. She offered the bite to Sasuke. You first asshole.

Sasuke ate the piece of chicken. She watched him chew and he chuckled. "See I didn't drop dead."

She separated another chunk of chicken and popped it into her mouth. Damn that's good. It didn't taste weird at all. Maybe the food was okay. She fed Sasuke a potato and waited for his reaction. When he didn't die she had one herself.

He grinned at her. "Not bad grub ne?"

Raine nodded and scarfed down another potato. She snared a piece of broccoli and held it out for Sasuke. "This too."

Sasuke ate the broccoli. "See, nothing is poisoned." Not really.

She tried the broccoli. It was good too. "What's this?" she pointed to the earthy pitcher.

"Lets find out." Sasuke poured a drink into the mug. "Meade," his nose told him at once. He offered her the cup and she shook her head. "Me first right?"

"You catch on quick."

"So do you." Sasuke took a generous swallow of the brew and passed it to Raine. With her body size a small amount of drink would speed up the sleeping agent's effects.

Raine took the mug and chased her broccoli with a drink. "I'm trying my best. This is my first kidnapping you know," she grumbled and went for more chicken.

No it's not. You just don't remember. "You're doing just fine Raine. You're smart; you've got this all figured out. You're protective enough of yourself not to do unnecessary things. Things that could get you hurt."

"I'm not stupid. I don't wanna die. I want to see Gaara again. If you'll take me to him, then great. Let's go." Raine didn't like to think of her love as a murderer but kill this guy Gaara. Kill him and rescue me.

She fed him more chicken. "Is everything always about Gaara?"

Raine poked at the chicken again. "I love him."

Sasuke rolled his eyes. He couldn't think of anyone less deserving of Raine then Gaara. "Staying alive to see your love again. How touching."

"I don't expect someone like you to understand." She stuffed another bite of chicken in her mouth. "I doubt that you love anyone but yourself."

He smiled. "You've got me there." He let her feed him another potato.

She shook her head. "How sad for you."

"Sad ne? Does Gaara's little princess think mean old Sasuke needs a date?" he teased. She frowned at him chewing a piece of broccoli. "How about it Raine? You're into us deadly monster types right? Wanna love each other a little?"

Raine glared at him. "I don't think so."

Sasuke smiled at the evil look she was giving him. "Saving that all up for Gaara?" He took the mead and drank a sip. Sasuke passed it to her.

She took the mug and drank. Don't let him provoke you into a fight. He'll use it as an excuse to do something bad. "He's my husband."

No he's not. He never will be. "I hope Gaara appreciates your devotion."

Gaara… Raine lost her appetite. "Gaara loves me."

Her tongue had lost its sharp edge. Pining away for Gaara? Pathetic. "I know he does. That's why you're here with me now."

I won't let this freak use me to hurt Gaara. Even if I have to die. "When will I see Gaara?"

"Eat, rest," Sasuke spoke slowly. A few more bites and she would start getting sleepy. "We'll sleep for a while and then we'll go to Orochimaru. We'll all go meet Gaara together."

Raine ate another potato. If she was stuck with Sasuke and heading into a nest of Sound ninja, then maybe she could find a way to help Gaara or the Sand from the inside. She made Sasuke eat a few more bites and then he waved her off insisting he was too full. Raine finished most of the chicken and potatoes. They split the mead.

After she ate what she could Sasuke moved the tray and told her to lay down. She did and ten minutes later she was snoring softly. Sasuke yawned and stretched. He was groggy and a long nap sounded good. He lay down beside Raine and threw an arm over her. If she moved, he'd feel it and wake up. Sasuke doubted he had to worry about it and drifted off to sleep.

Naruto went from inn to inn for six hours. Finally it was getting late enough to have to get a room to sleep in. He had no luck finding anyone that fit Sasuke or Raine's description at any of the hotels. He hoped that Jiraiya had better luck. He secured them a room and went to find the sannin. He found Ero sannin in a bar in the red light district talking to a pair of working girls.

"Oi Naruto," Jiraiya greeted. "Have you found us a room?"

"Yeah, but no sign of Raine."

The sannin nodded. "There are Sound ninja about. The past three days things around here have been busy."

"Any sign of Sasuke?"

Jiraiya finished his sake. "Not yet." He stepped away from the ladies with Naruto. "Which inn are we staying at?"

"The Alhambra on Parker Street."

"Alright Naruto, head back to our room and get some sleep. I'll be along in a little bit. There are a few more places I want to check out."

He hung his head tiredly. "What about Raine?"

He could see Naruto was worried. "She and Sasuke are probably still here somewhere. He'll set out into the desert early though, probably before dawn. Go rest for a few hours. I'll wake you before dawn to watch the western gate. They'll head to Sand from that direction," he reasoned.

Naruto frowned some. "Are you sure they'll go straight to Sand?"

It didn't really matter, Jiraiya was sure they would end up there eventually. "Sasuke will meet up with Orochimaru. If you want to get Raine back safely then we will have to take her back before Sasuke can reach the group moving to attack Sand.

"Gaara's gonna be so freekin pissed. I never should have taken her out of Konoha with me." Naruto was mostly miserable. As he search turned up nothing his hope of finding his genie friend faded. He was still in the way of thinking that he would see Raine again but, "Sasuke is going to drag her right into the middle of the fighting. That's just what Gaara didn't want."

"As soon as we see her we can make a move to rescue her Naruto. We'll watch the gate. We'll get to Sasuke before he can get too far."

"We have to save Raine before Sasuke can take her to Orochimaru" Naruto insisted. "He'll try to use her against Gaara. Gaara doesn't want Raine to see the kage fight." There was another possibility as well. "The kazekage can't surrender to Sound for the sake of just one person. Sasuke or Orochimaru might kill her in front of Gaara to… to fuck up his fight you know."

He understood well what Naruto was saying. "Don't worry Naruto; it isn't going to come to that." He dropped his hand on Naruto's shoulder. "Go get some rest. We'll have to be up early to spot the enemy leaving the city."

"Right." He sighed tired and aggravated and headed off for the inn. Sasuke, I'll find you. I won't let you hurt Raine. Shit… Gaara is gonna hate me.

The sandstorm wasn't a problem. Gaara switched places with Kiba and sat atop Akamaru keeping a barrier of sand around them as they kept racing toward home. It wasn't difficult, but it took nearly two hours to cut through the massive storm. It left Gaara a little tired but this storm will slow the Sound down. They can't navigate it; they'll have to wait it out.

They cleared the wind zone and Gaara reached down and pet Akamaru on top of the head. "Good boy Akamaru."

Akamaru barked and Kiba translated. "Akamaru says he'll carry you so you can rest."

"Thank you," Gaara nodded.

Gai was still amazed at the near absolute control Gaara had over the sand. They had been running through a tunnel of sand through the storm for hours. The kage looked a little tired, but he wasn't even winded. Incredible, he is the strongest kage Sand has ever had. He'll do it; he'll stand up to Orochimaru and save his village. Gai smiled. Probably without even breaking a sweat.

Choji broke into a fresh bag of chips. He cut his eyes over to Shikamaru. His friend was staring at Temari's ass. You're a brave guy considering what her brother can do.

It felt like they had been running forever. "Gaara," Temari advised. "We should be running into ANBU scouts pretty soon. You guys stay alert up there."

"We'll smell em, right Akamaru?" Kiba said with a grin. His dog agreed.

Almost there. Kankuro was eager for news from Sand. He hoped that a battle hadn't begun without them without Gaara. We'll arrive just before dawn. Just a little more.

Sasuke got his eight hours and woke feeling totally refreshed. He opened his eyes and looked at Raine. She hadn't moved at all and she was still sleeping. Sasuke smiled a little. Good drugs ne princess? He sat up and rubbed his eyes. The sun was yet to come up and it was dim in here. He got up and went to the bathroom. He flicked on the light and squinted at its brightness. He kicked the door shut so he wouldn't wake Raine just yet.

He took a pee that seemed to go on for five whole minutes then he washed his hands and face. Now that he was awake, it was time to get moving. He pushed the door open and his shadow fell on the bed. His eyes went to Gaara's girlfriend. I wonder if she'll behave today.

There were leaving the city early enough so that very few people might actually see them. The plan was to pass through quick and get out. As long as Raine cooperated it would take less then ten minutes to vanish into the desert. And if she gives me any shit I'll make her obey. Sasuke went to the bed and stared down at her. Just you wait until I have you out in the desert where no one can hear you scream.

"Wake up Raine," Sasuke said with a smile. "Get up it's time to go."

Jiraiya woke Naruto just before dawn. They headed to the western gate to watch for anyone leaving for Cardiff. Unfortunately for them Sasuke had already taken his hostage and left the city. They waited by the gate until hunger drove Jiraiya to find a doughnut shop. Naruto stood watch waiting for Jiraiya to come back.

"We missed them somehow," Naruto grumbled taking a fresh coffee from the sannin. "Maybe they left before we got out here."

"Or they haven't left yet. Maybe they're waiting us out."

Naruto burned his tongue on the coffee. "Godamn it." He pulled the lid off the styrofoam cup and blew into his drink. "If Sasuke has already left we don't have time to sit around. We have to catch up."

He chewed a doughnut. It was still early but Sasuke would have had eight hours of sleep somewhere around four or five this morning. I guess we are too late. "Finish your breakfast Naruto. We're leaving."

To Kankuro's relief they were met by an ANBU squad before they reached Sand. The village was on high alert, but it was still intact. There had been no attack yet. They followed Gaara to his office where jonin squad leaders and some ANBU guys were waiting for their arrival. They reported to Gaara and waited for orders.

The kazekage ordered Sand locked down. He asked Kakashi, Kiba and Neji to accompany various scouting parties. Gai went with Kankuro and the ANBU to the perimeter wall. Temari took Sakura Choji and Shikamaru with her to direct the jonin at the gate. Kankuro went to replace his puppet and Lee stayed with Gaara while he finished giving out orders. With his shinobi in position Gaara got up and went to the roof. Lee followed.

Gaara stood at the rail watching the ninja move about the village. There was still a sand storm out there slowing Sound down. There was time to prepare for any attack. "How are you holding up Lee?"

"I'm good, you?" Seeing his friend delegate so confidently had impressed Lee.

"I'll be alright." Gaara could relax for a while, rest and ready himself for the fight ahead. "I think we have some time to rest."

Lee nodded. They would have a heads up on any attack coming, there were some great sleuths checking out the desert. He wondered again if Naruto was on his way. He wondered where Uchiha Sasuke was. "I'm sure that this will be resolved quickly."

"I hope that it is." Sound wouldn't get into the village with or without Orochimaru. Their scouts would alert them of the enemy approach and then Sand would intercept them outside of the village.

His fellow shinobi had moved to their posts. "What can I do to help Gaara?"

"I will fight Orochimaru. If Sasuke gets past Kakashi, you'll be the one to kill him." It was a hard thing to ask Lee to do but he can do it, he may be the only one besides Gai that can fight around the Sharingan and… Gaara looked at Lee. That move, the lotus; it could kill Sasuke. "You might want to remove your weights Lee. He's pretty quick."

"Understood." He had wanted to beat Uchiha Sasuke in a fight for a long time. Now all of his training would be put to use killing the traitor. "I'll take care of Sasuke."

He didn't doubt that Lee would. "I'll leave him up to you then."

Raine gave Sasuke no trouble as they crossed the desert. They encountered the sand storm shortly before reaching camp. Sasuke kept her close and soon enough he found the entrance to their underground base. A ninja greeted them when Sasuke came in. "Take me to Orochimaru." The underling obeyed.

She was still coughing up sand as Sasuke pulled her along into the depths of some weird burrow. An underground base in the desert? This is bad. How many ninja are here? They were following behind one Sound ninja and Raine counted eight more on the way into the dimly lit room they ended up in.

Sasuke dragged Raine along beside him. "Orochimaru," he headed for the sannin seated at a desk. "I've brought Raine."

Orochimaru looked up at Sasuke's captive. Rhiannon… He stood and walked around the desk to the woman. "Look at you. You look just like your mother."

Raine tried to step back away from Orochimaru. "This is Orochimaru Raine." Sasuke squeezed the arm he held and she stilled herself.

Orochimaru smiled. "I can see the perfect blend of your parents in you dear child. And just look at how you've grown. It's been nearly twenty years little Raine."

Sasuke squeezing her arm or not, Raine couldn't stand to be so close to the freak. She took a big step back. "I don't know you!"

"Rhiannon was a close friend of mine," Orochimaru reached up and took the young woman's face in his hand. "You really do look just like her."

"My mother didn't know you. She didn't know anyone like you!"

Orochimaru laughed. "Of course she did. Your father was ninja."

What? "I don't believe you."

"Your taking after Rhiannon I see, falling for a shinobi of the Sand." He let go and she glared at him. "Do you not know your own lineage girl? Has sweeping up after Hotohori numbed your mind?"

Raine frowned. "It's not that hard to figure out I worked for Lord Hotohori. Your tricks won't work on me."

"She's pretty smart," Sasuke pulled Raine closer to him.

The sannin chuckled at Sasuke. "Has she been giving you a hard time Sasuke?" His golden eyes went back to Rhiannon's daughter. It's like seeing her alive again. "Is it hard to figure out that Hotohori owned you as his property and that he gave you to Gaara to further his political ambitions? How about how you came to be possessed by the noble man to begin with? Amiboshi was a coward. He was afraid of your father. He was afraid that he would kill him; so he dumped you off on the lord and took off for parts unknown."

"My step father," she had to at least try to defend him with such an obviously evil man slandering him.

"Amiboshi never should have married Rhiannon." Orochimaru sighed and leaned back against the desk. "He wasn't man enough to stand up to Sasori. He wasn't man enough to keep Rhiannon happy either." The sannin had some fond memories of Raine's mother.

There was something lecherous in the snake hermit's smile. Is he implying… She narrowed her eyes at Orochimaru. Something else had caught her attention. "Sasori, who's that?"

"Your real father. Sasori was a missing nin from Hidden Sand. We were in an organization together for a while, Akatsuki. He introduced me to Rhiannon." Orochimaru grinned. "I knew her for a while."

Temari had told her about the treacherous Sasori. He's lieing. There's no way that can be true. "I don't believe you."

His smile never faltered. "Tell me Raine, do you remember your mother having a tattoo of a rose on right breast?" That's not common knowledge sweetie.

Mama's flower… She remembered seeing it when they were in the bath together. "How did you… Why would you know something like that?"

"I told you I knew her," he could see the realization setting in Raine's eyes. "Sasori said he didn't love Rhiannon, but I did; every time I came to town. At least until she married Amiboshi."

This guy and my mom? No way! "You sicko!"

Orochimaru laughed. "I'm glad you think so highly of your mother. She loved you dearly. I myself bounced you off my knee when you were just a baby."

Lies! Don't believe any of it. She looked up at Sasuke. The look he gave her seemed to say told you so. Raine faced Orochimaru. "If you wanna kill me then go right ahead but I will never believe you!"

"Rhiannon had been married to Amiboshi for two years when Sasori killed her. Brutal, stabbed her to death. I was beside myself with grief. I'm afraid you saw the murder Raine and Sasori wouldn't stand for it. Your memories of that afternoon and much of what came before were repressed." Orochimaru leaned closer to Raine. "Take a good look into my eyes child and tell me if you remember Uncle Orochimaru."

No, my mom was good! Such a terrible thing could never be real. She tried to shrink away from the snake eyed villain but Sasuke stepped in her way. "No!"

"Yes," Orochimaru answered her protest.

"What do you want from me!" Raine tried to fight her rising panic.

"You'll find out soon enough." The sannin straightened and went back to his seat at this desk. He sat back watching Rhiannon's daughter.

What if he kills me before I see Gaara again? "I won't help you."

"Your cooperation is hardly relevant." He cut his eyes up to Sasuke. "Tired of dragging her around Sasuke?"

Sasuke felt Raine tense up. "Not in particular. I did say that she's smart. We've have an arrangement." He looked down at her. "Isn't that right Raine?"

It suddenly hit her that Sasuke was the lesser of the two evils here. The enemy you know… Raine stepped next to Sasuke and forced herself to look at his eyes. "I want to stay with you."

Orochimaru saw Sasuke's eyebrow twitch slightly and he laughed. "What an adorable couple you two make."

Raine frowned but kept her eyes away from Orochimaru. Shit this guy. She wanted to get away from the sannin. Sasuke… I can deal with him I think, but Orochimaru…Raine had given Sasuke no trouble since Cardiff. She was hoping she had scored some points for good behavior. "Sasuke, can you take me someplace where we can be alone?"

Just like Rhiannon. Orochimaru grinned. "Go on Sasuke. You have a few hours to kill while this storm blows itself out. Have fun kids."

Her temper got the better of her for a moment. She couldn't help but glare at Orochimaru. "Fuck you and I don't believe what you said about my mom either." A second after it was out she cringed closer to Sasuke.

Sasuke looked down Raine. She said fuck you to Orochimaru. Sasuke chuckled. I'm not so bad of a guy when she needs a protector ne? "Come then Raine," He was sure she was ready to run from Orochimaru. "I'll take you back to my room." He turned them and started out into the hall.

"Sasuke," Orochimaru had one more piece of advice. "Keep your bitch on a short leash. Understand?"

He rolled his eyes a little. You jealous old man? Raine don't want Uncle Orochimaru, too bad so sad. "Yeah I got it." Sasuke walked them out leaving the sannin to stew in his own petty competitive jealousy.

The sandstorm was troublesome for the Sound but Jiraiya had no trouble navigating their way to Sand. His feet remembered the way. There were nearly to Sand when they ran into Kiba and the group of Sand ninja he was with. Akamaru smelled them coming and they went to meet them.

"Oi Naruto!" Kiba called smiling. I knew he couldn't stay away.

It was time to face the music. "Kiba," Naruto jogged over. "I have to see Gaara right away." He's gonna hate me.

"The Uchiha has taken Raine hostage. We lost them in Cardiff. He came into the desert to meet with Orochimaru. Sound has a base somewhere out here in the desert."

Kiba had figured Sound had a hideout somewhere close, but "Sasuke kidnapped Raine?" Shit I have to tell Kankuro! "Follow me I'll take you to Gaara!" Kiba was quick to get them moving.

They reached the village quickly and went straight for the kazekage's building. Gaara Kankuro and Lee were on the roof. "Gaara!" Naruto called out mid hop to get his attention. A second later he landed in front of his friend.

Lee was looking at Naruto. "I see you couldn't stay away."

Naruto focused on Gaara. "Sasuke took Raine. They're out here in the desert somewhere. With the Sound."

For a moment everything seemed to just stop. Sasuke has Raine? The nightmarish images from the Uchiha's genjutsu tried to surface. "Where is Raine?"

Jiraiya addressed Gaara. "We lost Sasuke's trail in Cardiff. He had been carrying Raine over his shoulder all the way there. He was only hours ahead of us."

"Sasuke has gone to Orochimaru, to other Sound," Naruto frowned. "But they have to be close."

Kankuro was livid. "How the fuck did that guy abduct her from the hospital?"

Naruto sighed. "Raine wasn't in the hospital, she was with me. We were in the forest on our way to Sand when Sasuke attacked us."

The angry ninja grabbed the blonde by the front of his shirt. "You let Sasuke take mouse? You loser bastard!" Kankuro hauled off and punched Naruto in the jaw.

"That's enough Kankuro!" Gaara interceded. This was no time for in fighting. He stepped between his brother and Naruto. He spoke to Jiraiya, he was calm. "You're sure Raine is still alive?"

"He went through some trouble to take her along with him. Naruto fought Sasuke with all he had. Even I thought Sasuke was dead. When we regained consciousness Sasuke had fled with Raine. He attacked Naruto for possession of her, he wants her for something. It's likely he'll keep her alive until they move on Sand."

Gaara felt his insides turning cold. He was afraid of what Sasuke wanted with his woman. There was no time to worry about that right now either. Raine was alive and in some serious shit. I have to find her. "Sasuke has taken her to Orochimaru, to the Sound camp here in the desert?"

"It's gotta be somewhere between here and Cardiff," Naruto insisted.

Gaara nodded. He turned to Lee. "Take off those weights and go get me Neji and Kakashi. Bring their teams back to me."

"Wait a minute Gaara," Kankuro protested. "What are you thinking?"

"I want the dogs and Neji's eyes." Gaara was done chatting. "Kiba, take me to where you found Naruto and Jiraiya."

Akamaru barked and the ninja got moving. Lee ditched his weights and went after Neji, Gaara lead the others toward the gate. The kazekage stopped briefly to speak with Baki. "We have a lead on where the Sound is hiding. We're going to find them and we're going to crush them. Stay alert."

Naruto hung his head as he followed Gaara out into the desert. "You didn't mention Raine? Why not?"

"Because that's what Orochimaru wants me to do. He wants my men to hesitate out of concern for my wife. I won't let that happen."

Kiba thought that sounded a little cold. "What about Raine? You do intend to rescue her don't you? Get her out of the line of fire at least."

Gaara frowned. "Raine is my top priority. I will get her away from Sasuke. I'll count on you and Akamaru to take her to safety."

"I'm going after Sasuke too," Naruto grumbled.

Kankuro remembered how Sasuke had talked shit about Raine and Temari. So help me if that fuck has touched mouse I'll cut his dick off. He felt the need to hurry so he did. "Step on it Akamaru." The big dog did.

Sasuke led Raine to his room and followed her in. "Not my usual accommodations but any port in a sandstorm."

She barely heard him. Raine stood in the center of the room lost in her own thoughts. Ever since she left Orochimaru all she could think about was what he said. That guy and my mom, there's no way is there? Is there?

She seemed to be ignoring him, he didn't like it. Sasuke stepped closer to her to scare her a little. "What's your problem?"

She looked at Sasuke and swallowed hard. "That stuff he said about my mom."

"Oh that. Well, I told ya."

"Orochimaru told you all of that stuff before?"

He sighed and tried to act put out. "Yes, I thought I told you that already."

Raine looked at her feet. It can't be true. "It's a lie. My mom was a good person."

"Just because you love someone, that doesn't mean that they're a good person. Good people do bad things all the time." Sasuke's brother was a primary example.

"She never would have…Not with that guy."

Sasuke smiled and stepped closer. "Rhiannon was like you. She liked scary powerful guys. The bad boys."

"Gaara isn't scary or bad." She narrowed her eyes at Sasuke.

"Sure he is you just can't accept that he's a monster." Sasuke loomed over her. "Just like Sasori, Orochimaru, me."

"Gaara isn't like any of you."

He shook his head. "Gaara doesn't deserve you. You're too devoted."

"I love Gaara he is my heart."

It was aggravating to hear anyone speak of Gaara so fondly. Sasuke leaned over frowning at her. "You love him too much. I'm sick of hearing it."

Raine took a cautious step back. She didn't want to provoke Sasuke. "Fine."

Cautious, as usual. He closed the distance between them in a single step. "What do you want Raine? Why did you want to be alone with me?"

"If I have to trust someone in this place it might as well be you."

He smiled. "You want me to protect you from all the scary Sound ninja ne? You're afraid of Orochimaru."

"I don't like him." It was an understatement. Raine wanted the snake eyed freak to die.

"Because he fucked your mother or because he said you're just like her." She straightened. "Quite sensitive about your dear mom. Let it go. She's dead."

My mother… "I loved her," Raine started to choke up.

"So did Orochimaru," Sasuke lifted his eyebrows. His last hateful comment was enough to break her and Raine started to cry. She turned her back to Sasuke and covered her face with her hands. He smiled a little at the display. "You're too weak Raine."

She couldn't take his cruelty anymore. Raine cut her angry crying eyes to the ninja behind her. "Didn't you love your mother? Or were you a monster from the moment you were born?"

His lip curled into a snarl. Sasuke lunged and grabbed Raine by her shoulders. "Don't you ever talk about my mother!" he shouted down in her face.

Raine struggled against him. "Let go of me Sasuke!"

"Gaara killed his mother at birth! He killed her coming into this world. His very first murder was the woman that bore him. Don't you dare speak of my mother when you're fucking a guy like him!"

Shit. Sasuke had lost control of his temper. He shook her as he yelled at her and a second later Raine's feet left the ground. He threw her backwards and she landed on his bunk. She came within inches of bashing her head against the wall. Raine watched wide eyed as Sasuke came closer. "Wait a minute Sasuke," she raised a hand at him.

"My mother was a saint, yours was a whore." He grabbed the hand she had tried to put between them. "Don't you ever talk like you know shit about me again."

Raine couldn't help herself. She tried to draw her hand back. "Let go."

You bitch. "You can't stand me can you?"

"You're… miserable." She started to cry again sure that Sasuke was going to hurt her.

"Miserable?" Sasuke sounded amused. He laughed. "Then maybe you should try and make me happy."

Oh shit. Raine was on her feet in a flash still trying to pull her hand away from Sasuke. "Just let go of me Sasuke."

You can't get away from me. Sasuke pushed her into the wall. He pinned her arms and used his knee to keep her legs still. "You're the one who requested a private room Raine. Why so eager to be alone with me if you hate me so godamn much?"

She turned her head and avoided his eyes. Shit what do I… "I thought I would be safe with you. You said we were going to Sand."

"Safe in my arms ne?"

"You said if I listened to you that you wouldn't hurt me."

He leaned in closer, terrorizing her and enjoying it. "How about instead of hurting you I make you feel really good? I'll make you forget all about Gaara."

"I've done everything you told me to. I haven't given you any trouble." Raine was near panic. "Stop it Sasuke please!"

Sasuke used his elbow to keep her arm trapped and took her face in his hand. "My protection comes at a price; so does my good behavior. If you want me to release you you're going to have to do something for me."

"I'll behave I promise." Just let me go!

"You'll behave or I'll rape you. I think we both know that don't we Raine?"

"Don't do it Sasuke," she pleaded. Let me go let me go.

She's completely terrified. "Look at me."

She didn't want to, but she had to. His eyes were still black, at least that was something. "What do you want?" Raine tried to control her panic.

I want to torment and kill your boyfriend. He smiled a little at Raine. "Kiss me and I'll leave you alone."

What! "What!"

"Do you value your life Raine?"

Oh god what do I do! "Yes!"

"Then don't fight me." He would scare her out of her wits. He pressed himself against her. Raine squeezed her eyes shut; there was no where left for her to run. You're mine now. Sasuke closed his mouth over hers and kissed her.

No Oh god no! She tried to turn her head but she couldn't. Sasuke's hold was too tight. A second later she felt him bite into her bottom lip. Raine cried out startled and in pain. He's going to bite my face off!

Sasuke tasted blood in his mouth and pulled away satisfied. He threw her down on the bed and licked his lips. "There, now Gaara will know I've had my mouth on yours."

Raine brought a hand up and covered her bleeding lip. Tears stung her eyes. "I didn't do anything to you!" Gaara… I want to see Gaara!

"I didn't do it to hurt you Raine. That love bite is a present for Gaara. I want him to see it, that you've suffered at my hands."

The tears were streaming down her face now. "Gaara…"

The Uchiha smiled. He wished Gaara could see his woman in such a frazzled state. "Shut up about him or I'll kill you." He took a threatening step her way and she cringed. "You'll see him soon enough."

Kiba led them to where he encountered Naruto and Jiraiya. The sandstorm still covered a huge expanse of desert. "Right about here!" Kiba shouted above the howling wind.

Raine, I'll find you. Gaara stepped forward removing the cork from his gourd. He got to his hands and knees on the hardpan and let some of the sand in his gourd spill out. Find her Gaara commanded the desert.

Naruto watched from behind. "Gaara?" Is he okay?

"Quiet," Kankuro scolded. "Let Gaara concentrate."

"What's he doing?" Naruto shrunk away from Kankuro.

"Using the sand," Jiraiya was watching interested.

Kankuro lowered his voice and offered an explanation. "He's searching the desert for Raine. His sand will recognize mouse and lead us right to her."

"Sugee," Naruto was awed. "He can search the whole desert for her?"

"It takes time and concentration," Kankuro's eyes went back to his brother. Gaara's hands had sunk into the sand. "He'll find her."

Lee found Neji first and then Kakashi. Pakkun led them toward Naruto's scent out in the desert. The dog could feel the sand beneath his sensitive paws doing something strange. "I think Gaara must be up to something. The ground feels soft."

"He's looking for Raine," Kakashi guessed. "Perhaps he can use the sand to find her since they know each other so intimately."

"Gaara's sand can detect her presence," Neji pondered. "That's quite a trick."

Lee had to slow himself slightly to keep pace with his commerads. "Gaara's control of the sand is still absolute. He cannot be defeated in the desert."

"What does Sasuke want with Raine?" Neji directed at Kakashi.

"He probably intends to murder her in front of Gaara."

"Keh," Lee hissed through his teeth disgusted. "Dragging Raine san into this. What a coward. Gaara won't let her be killed."

Kakashi nodded. There was hope now that Gaara would get to his bride before she could be killed. But what about in the meantime? Sasuke's had Raine with him for a while now. What has he done to her? It was possible he could have used the Sharingan on her again. Raine might not even be herself. Hell she could be a fucking vegetable. Kakashi sighed. There was something else Sasuke could do to damage the young woman, something that would cut Gaara's heart right out. What if it's already too late? They spent the night together in Cardiff. What if he's raped her?

Neji was picking up on Kakashi's heavy vibes. "If she's alive, that's all that matters."

"We will rescue Raine," Lee was confident. "Gaara won't leave her in the hands of the enemy. He'll take Raine back and crush the Sound before they can move on Sand."

Kakashi agreed with the latter at least. "Do everything you can to kill the enemy and follow Gaara's orders. That is our mission here."

Gaara wants me to kill Sasuke. "Right," Lee concurred.

Moments before Lee and the jonin met Gaara; Temari Sakura Shikamaru and Choji caught up to them. "What's going on?" Temari demanded.

Kankuro took his sister by the arm and led her away. "Listen Temari, mouse was kidnapped by Sasuke. Gaara's looking for her now."

"Mouse," she blinked at her brother in disbelief. "That guy went back for mouse?"

Oh crap. She's gonna hit me too. "It was my fault. I brought her out of Konoha with me and Sasuke took her."

Shikamaru looked up at the dead man walking. A second later Temari was choking Naruto. "Oi Temari!"

"You stupid little prick!" Temari throttled Naruto. Kankuro and then Shikamaru were prying her off the imbecile.

"Calm down Temari," Kankuro ordered.

"Why didn't you leave her in the hospital? Gaara left her there so she would be safe you asshole!"

Sakura frowned at Naruto from her place beside Choji. "Did your genie sweet talk you pervert? Couldn't resist carrying her around ne?"

Naruto freed himself from Temari. "I was wrong okay? She told me she wanted to come back and help in the village. Orphans and old people."

"You couldn't protect her!" Temari shook Shikamaru off and Kankuro pulled her closer. She was worried about her friend. "Uchiha Sasuke almost made her kill herself."

"That's enough Temari." Kankuro hugged at his sister. "Naruto fought hard against Sasuke. Gaara will get mouse back."

"Oi!" Lee called breaking ahead of the pack and racing to his gathered friends.

Shikamaru turned and waved them all over. Looks like a pretty strong group is gathered here. He focused on Kakashi; of course the jonin was leading the tribe.

"What's going on?" Kakashi asked no one in particular. Gaara looked busy. Just like Pakkun said. He's using the sand.

"Well," Shikamaru deduced, "Gaara is gonna find out where they've got Raine and then we're gonna go bust her out. We've got a pretty good group here. A kage and a legendary sannin. Sakura has been trained by Tsunade sama and you know how to control Naruto in a fight. Kiba works well with Kankuro and the siblings all know how to work together. Neji and Lee have some good teamwork and me and Choji have been together for a while now. We're gonna take the fight to them."

Jiraiya smiled. Kids got it all figured out huh? "A preemptive strike."

Shikamaru shrugged his shoulders. "Anyone left alive that peruses us to Sand will be taken care of by the ninja of Sand."

Temari frowned at him, but she knew her sweetie was right. Shikamaru would simply state the right thing to do. He could understand how Gaara thought. "I'll kill em all."

Twenty minutes later Gai arrived with two ANBU to report to Gaara. Lee filled Gai in and Gai insisted on going along with them. They were glad to accept his help. Temari had the foresight to hold the ANBU until Gaara could speak with them. While they waited she let Shikamaru explaine things.

Gaara's hands were cold. It's cold below the surface. His sand stretched far now and then suddenly she's crying. The sound of her pitiful sobs echoed across the miles through the sand. Raine… Gaara focused on the location, marked it in his mind. Finally he got to his feet. "Godamnit," he grumbled.

"Gaara?" Kankuro was eager for news.

"I found her."

"Is she alright? Can you tell?" Temari was hopeful.

Shit, why is she crying? "We have to hurry." Gaara turned to the ANBU. "I've located a Sound outpost in the desert. This group and I are making a first strike against the enemy. Send six squads of jonin in behind us. I'll mark the way."

"Yes kazekage!" The ANBU broke into a run for the village.

Naruto thought Gaara looked a little pale. "Is Raine alright?"

Gaara looked over his bloated squad of super ninja. "I'll take care of getting Raine away from the enemy." His friends looked ready to fight. "We'll kill them all before they can reach Sand. That is our mission."

"Please allow me to keep Orochimaru busy for you while you see to your girl," Jiraiya offered. He would kill his old friend this time.

"If it becomes necessary," Gaara nodded. "Let's go." He turned and faced the direction of the Sound encampment. He clenched his fist and a wall tall enough to block them from the wind started to run out into the desert.

He really knows how to mark the way. Gai lifted his eyebrows.

Gaara started off and everyone followed. Hold on Raine I'm coming!

Raine had tucked herself into the corner of the bed against the wall. She hugged her knees to her chest and sobbed with her head down. Sasuke sat on the edge of the bed listening until he got bored. He lay back and tucked his hands behind his head. After what seemed like an eternity Raine finally fell silent. Sasuke enjoyed the silence for a while, but then it too got boring.

He got up and went to a canteen of water on the crappy fold out table. He screwed the cap off and took a drink. "Thirsty?" She didn't answer him. He picked up the hand towel by the basin and poured some water onto one corner. He took the towel and the canteen back over to the bed with him.

She heard him moving around but she was afraid to look. What terrible thing are you going to do to me now you sicko. She felt his weight sink onto the bed in front of her feet.

Sasuke sighed. "Look at me Raine." She obeyed. She had stopped crying but her eyes were red and puffy. There was blood smeared all over her chin. "You're a mess."

Raine sat perfectly still watching Sasuke carefully. He wiped at her face with a wet towel. First he cleaned up the blood around her mouth. Sasuke examined what he did to her lip and looked up into her eyes.

There was a perfectly formed bite mark around her bottom lip. It was unmistakable as to what it was. Sasuke was pleased. Let's see how you like that Gaara. "You're angry with me aren't you?"

Crazy sadistic… "That hurt."

"Yes I know." Sasuke moved the towel and scrubbed the tears off her cheek. "You shouldn't make me angry Raine. If you were a little nicer to me maybe I'd be a little nicer to you." He moved on to the other cheek and cleaned her up.

Just fucking die already! Raine tried to swallow the lump in her throat and couldn't. Her mouth was too dry. "I'll try my best."

"Will you now?" Sasuke chuckled. He offered her the canteen. "Drink."

Raine did. The water was cold on her sore throat. Crying always gave her a sore throat. She was vaguely aware that Sasuke was watching her. God forbid I drink the wrong way he'll bite my fuckin ear off!

Sasuke was watching her lips on the mouth of the canteen with a smile on his face. He reached over and pulled the canteen away splashing water on her. "My bad." Sasuke wiped his spill up.

There was a very scary look in Sasuke's eyes. Raine tried to smush herself closer to the wall. Stay on his good side. "Thanks for the drink."

"Crying like a baby is thirsty work." He tossed the towel and it landed in the basin.

"It makes my throat hurt."

Sasuke laughed. "You're so weak even crying hurts you." He took another sip of water and passed it back to her. He watched her drink again. "I know something that would sooth your throat but I'm afraid to put my dick in your mouth. You'd probably bite it off."

Raine nearly choked and Sasuke laughed at her. She looked at him wide eyed not sure how to respond to such a thing. "The water is fine thank you."

She amused him. Sasuke took the canteen and screwed the cap back on. "It's too bad. You have a really pretty mouth." He traced the bite mark on her bottom lip with the pad of his index finger.

He was pushing on it hard enough to make it hurt. "It's sore."

His hand went to her chin and he pushed her teeth closed. "I'll kiss it and make it all better." Raine tried to retreat but there was no where to go. Sasuke kissed her boo boo and looked back into her eyes. "Isn't that better? See Raine, I can be nice too."

Get away from me! "Yes much better," then biting my face off asshole!

Sasuke smiled. He could tell by the look in her eye he was pushing her toward panic again. Fun way to pass the time. He tossed the canteen away and rested his hands on her knees. "You be nice to me and I'll be nice to you."

Get away! Don't touch me! "Alright Sasuke."

He pushed her knees apart and Raine jumped. Her hands went to his wrists and she tried to make him let go. He wriggled himself between her legs and she squealed. He reached for her arms and took her by the wrists. "You know what would be nice Raine?"

Panic was threatening to take over. What's he going to do this time? She could feel his breath in her face. "Sasuke don't!"

Raine was scared alright. Sasuke could feel her heart hammering in her chest as he pressed against her. He rested his cheek on hers and whispered in her ear. "Give it up to me once Raine and I'll leave you alone."

No no "No!"

Sasuke pushed her hands behind her back and held her wrists together with one hand. His other hand went to her face. Sasuke made her look at him. "I'm going to fuck you anyway. The nice thing to do would be to not give me any shit about it."

"No!" the tears were back. Oh god Gaara!

"Shall I make you want me or shall I just make you think you're fucking Gaara?" He could smell the fear coming off of her. Sasuke leaned in and nipped at her neck hard. He decided to leave another present for Gaara and proceeded to put a big hickey on the side of Raine's neck. She was still struggling when Sasuke leaned back to inspect his work.

"Stop it Sasuke please!" Raine pleaded desperately. "Don't… don't…" she lost her words in her sobs.

"Don't be like that Raine. I can't enjoy myself if you're crying the whole time." Sasuke approved of the mark he left on her neck. Where else will Gaara see? Oh yeah. He reached for the collar on her shirt and yanked it down hard. The fabric ripped and Raine screamed. "Shhhh," Sasuke picked a good spot on her cleavage to leave a mark.

Raine felt him biting at her breast. "Stop it!" She would have protested more but his hand closed over her mouth.

"Let a man enjoy his work would ya?" Sasuke left another mark on her left breast. It was in a place Gaara would notice. "Just relax and enjoy yourself. I'll make it good for you too." He let go of her face and cupped the breast he had marked. "Nice."

She couldn't pull her hands free. This is it. I'm doomed. Raine closed her eyes. Gaara, I love you.

Sasuke was about to relieve Raine of her dignity and her bra when he felt the first tremor. Another tremor hit and Sasuke left Raine on the bed. He got up and went to the door. "Oi, what's going on?" he called out into the corridor. A second later he heard something behind him. "No!"

Gaara's sand had found Raine. It closed around her protectively. "Gaara!" I'm saved! Gaara's here!

The ball of sand containing his prisoner moved up through the ceiling. "Godamnit!" Sasuke bolted into the hall feeding chakra into his hand. "The enemy is here! Gaara is here! Get above ground now!"

The ball containing his love rose up out of the desert. Come back to me Raine. With his love out of the ground Gaara clenched a fist and the tunnels below caved in on the Sound ninja beneath the desert.

As soon as Akamaru saw the ball emerge he raced for it. The sand around Raine crumbled and Kiba reached for her. "Raine!" He caught her hand and pulled her to him just as the desert erupted with Sound ninja trying to escape their tomb.

"Let's go!" Kakashi rushed forward flanked by Naruto and Sakura. To his right Neji and Lee fell in with Gai. The Konoha ninja charged the Sound.

Gaara hurried to meet Kiba. Thus far the ninja that had shown themselves were of no consequence. Kankuro was hot on Gaara's heels. "Raine!"

"Gaara!" She jumped off Akamaru's back and into Gaara's waiting arms. Gaara hugged her tight and Raine clung to him.

"Are you," his eyes went to a bite mark on her mouth. Her shirt was ripped open and there were hickeys on his woman. Gaara took her face in his hand. "Are you alright Raine?" Please… let me have made it in time!

"Yes," she knew how she must look. "You saved me Gaara."

He hugged Raine to him. Yokkata. "I love you." Gaara kissed his woman while more Sound ninja crawled out of the sand. There was an explosion not far from where they stood and Gaara looked over at what had erupted out of the earth.

Sasuke glared at Gaara furious. He had to use chidori to free himself from the sand trap. Gaara held Sasuke's hostage in his arms. "Get away from her Gaara! Can't you see she's mine!" He called upon the power of his cursed seal.

Gaara pushed Raine back and cut his eyes up to Kiba. "Get her out of here."

Kiba lifted Raine into his lap. "Will do boss."

"Gaara!" Raine reached for him but Akamaru broke into a run. Raine looked over Kiba's shoulder at the battlefield behind them. "Gaara…"

Kiba didn't mind the view of her boobs, but the fresh looking love bite made him feel sick. Kiba slipped off his jacket and offered it to Raine. "Here, cover yourself."

"Thank you." Raine slipped her arms into Kiba's jacket. She could hear shouting behind them but the battle was getting out of sight. "Where are we going?"

"I'm taking you back to Sand."

"What about Gaara?" No, I only got to see him for a minute! "I…I didn't even tell him I loved him! Go back Kiba; you have to go back so I can tell him!"

He could smell that Raine had been crying and that she was about to again. "It's okay Raine. Gaara already knows." Raine burst into tears and Kiba hugged her to him. It didn't smell like Sasuke had raped her, but from the look of her he was about to. "It's alright now. You're safe. Gaara will meet you at home when he's finished."

I'm safe. Gaara, you come back safe too.