Welcome to the next chapter.
Morregen; Thanks! Ryouta could do yeah, to help out his friends. That would be funny if Tsunade did something like that. Ryouta vs Kisame would be pretty epic~ Orochimaru and Ryouta will most certainly clash once more. Tsunade definitely is yeah, and thanks very much!
RizomataNyan; Thanks! Yeah, seems like he is huh~?
joharasbel; Thanks very much!
yochan123; There surely is~
ShadowUzumaki55; Thanks very much! He is yeah, we'll see the fruits of his training coming in pretty soon! Pakura does yeah, what she's thinking and feeling will soon become quite apparent. Izumi does yeah, she's able to have casual conversations with both Kisame and Itachi, even opening up to the three of them having such conversations. Yeah, that's what Hiashi said, we'll see Ryouta rising up and showcasing what he can do for those he cares for.
Silver crow; Thanks. We'll see how that goes yeah. Ryout's working on something. Naruko has yeah. Hinata will do. Lee is yeah. Anko and Satsuki have a fun dynamic. We'll see some cool Jutsu's from Ryouta. Yeah, Jiraiya was a little surprised and happy to see Naruko. Yeah, Jiraiya's choice of words allowed Naruko to take some liberaties, and ended up bringing Ryouta with her. Pakura's got something's that will be happening. Yeah, Izumi's able to bridge the gap between them. We'll see what happens with the Hyuga's. Hanabi was quite cute huh. Kabuto's gonna try his best to avoid Karin. Yeah, My Hero's was a cool episode, same for One Piece. Yeah, they'll do that. We'll see how that scene plays out. Aoda would do yeah. Yeah, Naruko could learn earlier about her parents. That would be a cool pirate crew. Anko could. I can't give some stuff away, but we'll see some surprises. Konan and Jiraiya meeting early could be pretty interesting. Hiruzen could do. Thanks for the harem suggestions.
GuoYaohui; Yeah, you're not wrong there~ It will be a learning experience for Neji in a number of ways. Yeah, it would have made a bit of sense if Neji did have that. We'll have to see how the fight goes~
TheGreatGodzilla; Pakura's got a role to play in the story, we'll see how that goes. Yeah, a Ninja with those abilities would be very deadly. Hiashi is yeah, it seems in his own way he's trying to care for his child. I'm sure the Hyuga's will have a few shocks to their systems. Thanks for the harem suggestions. I can't say anything about Jiraiya's fate. Itachi and Izumi are quite happy now, we'll have to wait and see what happens with them in the future. I'd say he'd probably marry Satsuki first since he's known her the longest. Yeah, Jiraiya might have a conversation with her about that.
Skull Flame; He surely has~ Orochimaru has done yeah, we'll see the extent for his evil schemes soon enough.
danielsnow; Yeah, we'll have to see how the fight goes~ We could see that yeah. I can't spoil it, but Pakura's got a good role coming up. Yeah, it did seem a bit odd that no other villages really showed up.
TheRagFromTheCrag; Maybe one day she could do. Yeah, that would be funny. Anko very well could do.
Hinata fan; It seems to be yeah. Hinata will get her chance yeah. Ryouta's making progress alright~ And thanks for the suggestions.
Andrew123456; His new Jutsu shall debut pretty soon.
Guest 1; Yeah, seems like he surely is. I thought Hiashi would do that based on what we've seen in canon. It does seem like Lee's doing quite well. Lee really could be a great teacher in that. Jiraiya might be saving that line for a later date. Yeah, seems like that's how Naruko views Ryouta. Izumi and Kisame do have a nice friendship with one another, she's able to easily bond with others~ Hinata did yeah, she'll be getting more in the future. Orochimaru's trying hard, but Karin's sensing is very good, so we'll see what happens with that.
War Sage; Thanks! Yeah he will do. Naruko was quite adorable huh. Naruko could be very strong yeah. Glad you liked their wake up scene. Haha, I'm sure Anko got a kick out of appearing suddenly. Lee seems to be on the mend a little bit. Hiruzen could do yeah. We will be seeing some interactions between them in this chapter. Thanks for the suggestions!
Neonlight01; Yeah, his Jutsu that he's working on now wont be inferior to those. Hiashi, in his own way, is caring for his daughter. Hinata is yeah, seems like her friends are able to help her courage. Glad you liked the Itachi and Izumi stuff.
Guest 2; Thanks for the suggestions.
With those reviews out of the way, it's time to start the chapter.
Ino's worries!
A few days into training, Ryouta was continuing his training with thoughts of Neji in his mind, and thoughts of Hiashi as well, and what he'd have to do about that.
Then he thought about Gaara, and what she was going to be doing.
"Haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!"
Ryouta called as he continued his training. With the tournament soon set upon them, Ryouta knew that he'd have to train as hard as he could. Not only to make sure that he beat Neji, but to prepare for the future as well, in case certain people were to show up.
With Satsuki beside him, training hard herself, he also wondered how the likes of Naruko and Haku were doing. Since they also had some matches that they'd have to be prepared for, whatever was going to happen next.
Kakashi watched on, seeing Ryouta and Satsuki working so hard side by side.
He was rather impressed by what was going on, to the point that he thought the pair of them would have a better time in the Chunin Exams with such a Jutsu in their arsenal.
And more than that, Satsuki and Ryouta were also doing training to do with their speed, and enhancing it to a good degree. For Ryouta, it was more about getting more of his Body Flicker at the ready when he needed to, Kakashi thought that he already had mastered the skill to a very good degree, but Ryouta thought that it would be good if he could use it even faster.
Satsuki herself also needed to increase her speed to use Chidori more effectively, and he could see that the pair being together was able to help them grow stronger and learn faster, it seemed that they pushed one another, to grow even stronger than ever.
Kakashi keenly watched and was impressed by the rate of progression that they had made into their training.
"By the way, have either of you heard from Naruko? I thought for sure that she'd be coming here for another lesson, and I tried looking for her, but I couldn't find her. I know Sakura is currently following the training regime I gave her, but Naruko..."
"You didn't hear Sensei? She got another person to teach her."
Ryouta explained swiftly.
Kakashi raised an eyebrow.
"Really? I didn't hear, who is it?"
Kakashi was definitely curious about who it was that Naruko had gotten.
He knew it wasn't Ebisu as he had come by and said that he was rejected by Naruko and he couldn't think of anyone else that it could be.
"Eh...I don't think I got his name, Mikoto-san said that he was rather strong, though he was a bit of a pervert as he spied on women in the hot springs and Naruko-chan mentioned something about summoning a toad."
Kakashi furrowed his brows, and thought about what Ryouta said.
Then it clicked in his mind.
"Jiraiya-sama...yes, I can see why Mikoto-san thought that was a good idea. At least it means that I can focus here now, I'm sure Jiraiya-sama will teach her some useful things before the months end."
Kakashi mused to himself.
He continued watching the pair train until the sun began setting in the sky.
"That's enough for today." Kakashi called, seeing the time. "You also have to remember to rest, and I think that this qualifies as time that is needed." Kakashi pulls up towards the pair of them. "Though you've pushed further than I imagined, I am glad to see how you're able to quickly progress."
"Hmm, of course."
Satsuki replied in her usual manner, Ryouta gave a soft smile.
"Thank you Sensei."
"Not at all, see you bright and early."
"Aah, about that, I promised Ino-chan that I'd be going out with her tomorrow. Is it okay to cut training a little early?"
"Hmmm, so you're going on a date?"
Ryouta nodded.
"Yes...she said that she'd like to go on one and because we both aren't on missions, while this is important, I thought it would be good if we did go out together."
"Well, I don't mind if it is something you wish to do. You put in enough hard work for the training to be held for a day or so."
Ryouta bowed his head rather fast.
"Thank you Sensei! I think it will be okay in the morning to get some in."
"Aah, I see. Then that would be fine. I'll see you tomorrow then."
"Yes Sensei, goodnight."
"Yes...goodnight."
Ryouta waved to Kakashi as he and Satsuki walked off together.
After having her dinner, Hinata walked out of her home, and she herself carried a packed lunch. She walked towards a place she knew she'd find a certain someone training, so when she got there, towards a woodland, she in fact saw Ryouta.
In fact, her eyes weren't quick enough to see him at first, so she activated her Byakugan, and watched him zipping across the battlefield, creating a few afterimage clones across the battlefield and launching attacks from all of them at the same time.
She saw that he had created five clones and he himself was moving between them rapidly.
She was immensely impressed to see that he was capable of doing something like that, more so that he seemed to be taking the training seriously, and that he was doing his best to fight against Neji and the others.
"He really is trying so hard...it makes me want to do the same. Father….he will come to see that Ryou-kun can...he will defeat Brother Neji, and he will see that what he said was true...I want to become stronger, and more capable, I want to be like Naruko-chan and Ryou-kun..."
Hinata thought deeply about it, and silently watched as Ryouta continued his training.
When he finally paused, she called out to him.
"R-Ryou-kun..."
Ryouta paused, and turned to Hinata, seeing her holding up a small nicely decorated box containing some food.
"Aah, Hinata-san. What's going on?"
"I-I...brought some...fo-food in case you got hungry..."
Ryouta smiled, and flashed to the right hand side of her.
Sitting down beside her, Hinata shyly presented the small box to him.
"This is really sweet, you didn't have to do this for me."
Hinata shook her head several times, before she began poking her fingers together in a shy manner.
"I-I wanted to do something...b-because you're working so hard..."
Ryouta gave a gentle smile, and took the food.
Unwrapping it from the box, the delicious looking contents simply called out to him, so he took some chopsticks that came with the food, and placed some within his mouth, and as soon as he did, it felt like it was melting in his mouth, and the flavours danced on his tongue, that's how good it was.
"Amazing Hinata-san. Did you really make this?"
"I-I did...is it g-good?"
"It's really fantastic. Thanks very much!"
Hinata smiled with the shyness kicking up even more than before.
"R-Ryou-kun...I think you can do it. Win against, Brother Neji I mean. I...I have seen how strong and compassionate you are...and how hard you work as well."
Ryouta gave a gentle smile.
"Thank you, Hinata-san. I'll do my best, and win that bet with your Dad."
Hinata believed him immediately.
She then sat with him for a good long while, and talked about various topics.
She was glad that Ryouta was doing his best, it made her want to try even harder than ever.
Later that evening, Temari was doing her own kind of research. For nearly a week now, she had noticed that Gaara was going towards Ryouta's place. Time and time again, it was either her, her brother, or Pakura that would have to keep an eye on her.
And tonight it happened to be her that would have to keep an eye on her.
So as she sat on a roof, simply staring at Gaara, she was afraid to ask the red head about it.
If she did and Gaara wasn't in the speaking mood…
She didn't even want to know what would happen.
She just wished to know what was going on with Gaara, who was acting very differently to how she usually would do. If she was interested, she'd end up trying to kill them or at least challenging them to a fight.
But Gaara hadn't done that, and she didn't get it herself.
As she was contemplating it within her mind, Pakura came to join Temari.
No one else was around, or rather they weren't in earshot, Pakura made sure of that before she began speaking to Temari.
"What's on your mind?"
Pakura like a dutiful Sensei questioned, so Temari answered curiously.
"Why do you think she's interested in the Uchiha?"
"I keep asking myself that very same question."
"Got any answers?"
Temari wondered, Pakura stifled a small laugh.
"I wish that I did, but I currently don't. Why, interested in him yourself?"
Temari almost did a spit take.
"Hardly, I wouldn't even try it with Gaara interested in him, she might turn on me and try to end me or something."
"Heh….well, why is it bothering you so much?"
"Because...Gaara doesn't do this. She doesn't...stop like this. She either murders, or remains to herself. She doesn't follow people, she doesn't sit by and wait patiently. She makes rash moves, and does what she wishes to."
"It might shock you, but she is human as well."
Temari sweat dropped.
"You don't say Sensei."
Pakura let out a small laugh.
"What I mean is, that she also has feelings. They might only come out in negative ways sometimes. But, she also feels like we do. She might be having a very hard time coming to terms with what she feels. She might like him, she might hate him. She might be unsure of what she feels, that's why she hasn't done anything."
Temari stroked her chin in wonder.
"Could it really be as simple as that?"
"I don't know, only Gaara has the answers to what she is feeling. But, why does it matter? She is just a monster, isn't she?"
Temari could hear the pain in her words when she said it.
It was clear that Pakura was different to other people.
That she felt differently about certain people, and that also included that of Gaara.
"You don't like the plan, do you?"
"I don't like using anyone as weapons. That includes the likes of your sister Gaara. She might have a craving for battle, but there's better ways to achieve what we want than use her."
Temari folded her arms.
"I'd rather have a peaceful solution too. But that's what our higher ups have decided after all."
"Not every decision made by the higher ups is a correct one."
Those words shocked Temari.
It felt like Pakura was being defiant, even to the Kazekage.
"Are you going to defy my Father?"
Pakura shook her head.
"I am still a proud Ninja of Suna. I might not like it, but I have a duty to my village and will do what is necessary for the sake of the village, and what I have been asked to do. Even if my heart is in turmoil and doesn't fully agree that this path is the right one."
"You know, you shouldn't say that to just anyone. They would believe that you'd be against us and wouldn't work as hard as you could."
Temari pointed out, however Pakura let out a small laugh.
"Perhaps you're right. But right now, the question isn't about me though Temari. It is about you right now. Can you do this mission, even if your head and heart are in conflict? That question is one many Ninja ask themselves, and it is one that you will have to ask yourself that too."
"..."
Temari couldn't provide an answer.
She didn't even know how she was going to answer such a question.
Pakura placed her hand on top of Temari's head, and gently patted.
"It is okay if you don't have the answer yet, but in time it will come to you. Hopefully, a time where you have to make these decisions doesn't come. If it was possible, then I'd try and stop all of it...but, I am only one person, and against such forces, I can only do my best."
"Pakura-sensei...is it right to do this to Gaara?"
Pakura hung her head down and allowed her hair to shadow her eyes.
"I'm sure people like Baki would say yes...but, I just can't. Even if she houses Shukaku….I can't tell you that it is."
Temari looked on as Pakura simply sat down and watched Gaara.
She did the same thing.
Temari thought about what would be best to do now.
Then she thought about what Gaara was interested in, and that right now, was Ryouta.
So Temari wondered if she should try and find out what it was about Ryouta that she was indeed interested in.
Ino woke up the next day, and stretched her arms above her. She twisted so she'd allow her feet to land on the floor, as her eyes looked towards her calendar that was attached to the wall, and circulated with a large heart was 'Ryou-kun's date day!' which she had marked several days earlier, and now it was here, she was so excited.
"Yes! Now it's time to charm Ryou-kun!"
Ino giddily got dressed, and rushed towards down the stairs.
She met up with her Father, and saw that he was casually eating.
Ino went to her food, and began eating it as fast as she could do.
Inoichi, her Father, saw that Ino seemed to be laser focused on something.
"Morning sweetheart."
Ino's eyes shifted to her Father, and she beamed.
"Morning Dad!"
"So, what's got you excited this morning?"
"It's my day out with Ryou-kun! He's got like training in the morning, but then the rest of the day is ours!"
Ino couldn't hide her excitement.
She had been wanting to do this for a good while now.
So now that she finally got the chance to do it, she wasn't going to let it go and grab it with both hands.
"Hmmm, so you and this boy are going out again? It must be serious, perhaps I should have a little chat with this young man..."
"N-No! Don't say anything Dad!"
Ino rejected the idea immediately.
But Inoichi was a rather protective Father, and wished for the best for his daughter.
"But, what if he isn't good enough? Ino, you need someone that is fantastic if you're thinking of a husband-"
"Geez no! We're only going on a date, that stuff comes like way later!"
"Haha, I see. But still, I might have to see if this boy takes care of you..." Ino's face fell. "Don't look so worried, it is all apart of a Father's job. Say, perhaps I could challenge him to a fight? Wouldn't that be a good idea? It would also help with his training."
Ino felt the urge to slap herself in the head, but she was able to hold back for the time being.
"Dad, please don't."
"Seriously, I'm only trying to be a good Father..."
Ino shook her head.
"Then be a good one, and don't interfere!"
Inoichi chortled to himself.
"I see, it seems that my presence would be unwanted?"
"Yes, extremely!"
Inoichi gave a troubled look.
Though it seemed Ino had made up her mind, she still was rather excited to see where this was going to go.
A small time later, Ino sat on a wall, looking left and right to see where Ryouta was going to come from.
Soon he came running up, and moved to the side of her in a flash.
"Hey Ino-chan, I'm not late, right?"
"No, right on time."
Ryouta released a breath.
"That's good...ooh, here!" Ryouta pulled out a scroll, and released the contents, showing that it was an assortment of flowers, ranging from reds, to blues, and pinks, and even whites. "These...are for you."
Ino's face turned bright red, as a little "Aah..." came from the right hand side.
Ryouta glanced to see that Ino's Father was looking on, trying his best to hide.
"T-These flowers, you got me flowers..."
"Yeah...I remembered you liked these ones."
Ino took the flowers, and held them to her nose, inhaling the lovely scent.
"Flowers...this really is like date~ Come on Ryou-kun, lets go!"
Ryouta, with Ino's insistence, began walking around together.
Moving from one area to the other of the village, Ryouta took Ino to see different places.
Because they hadn't decided on what to do yet, they thought that this would kill sometime before they did make up their mind.
Ryouta could see that Ino didn't look pleased about something so he spoke up.
"Is something wrong?"
"Apart from my Dad following us, no not really."
Ryouta was acutely aware that Inoichi was following them, but he didn't mind.
Ino on the other hand did seem to mind a good deal.
"I wouldn't worry, he's just worried about you, Ino-chan."
"Yeah, I guess...I just want him to know that I'll be fine with you. I'll be safe, and you're like a total gentleman anyway."
"That's sweet of you." Ryouta watched as Ino poked her hands together in a very Hinata like way. "Ino-chan, is something on your mind?"
"You know...this is a date, and all..."
Ino began, with her cheeks filling with redness more and more as time went on.
"Yes we are..."
Ino thought it was rather cute that he said it in the way that he did.
"A-And on dates...you know, holding hands is something you do sometimes..."
Ino couldn't contain the redness that she felt on her cheeks.
She didn't want to be so obvious, yet at the same time she wished to spend even more time with Ryouta and wished to hold onto his hand. Even though they had kissed...this felt like it would be like they'd be properly dating one another and that was something that she definitely could get behind.
"Is that so?"
Ryouta could understand that Ino did wish for this to be a thing.
"Y-Yeah, not mandatory or anything..." As she spoke up, she suddenly felt a hand wrap around her own. She looked down to see his hand holding hers, causing her to blush while Inoichi's teeth ground together in a rather dramatic way. "Y-Yeah, like that...exactly like that..."
"Noooooooooo!"
Inoichi called out, irritating Ino who turned her annoyed eyes back to her Father.
But the man hid himself before he could be seen.
"Geez, that man..."
Ryouta smiled at her, as she turned her gaze towards the flowers within her hand, giving an enjoyed look towards them.
Ryouta was glad that she really liked the flowers, so he pulled closer.
"So, what do you want to do together?"
Ino didn't know what she wished to do.
"I don't mind...as long as it is fun, I don't care..."
"Fun huh...well, we could go and train~" Ryouta joked, knowing that Ino wouldn't want that, and it was true when he saw her face turn down. "But, what about we go and see a movie instead? I heard there's a new one on with the actress Yukie Fujikaze-san being in it. I have been meaning to watch it as she's really good in the movies that she is in, but I rarely have spare time nowadays~ So, what do you say?"
Ino blinked.
She didn't expect Ryouta to say that.
While the movies could be expected, she didn't know that he was a fan of Yukie Fujikaze.
"Wow, I didn't know you'd know about her Ryou-kun. She's one of my favourites~"
"She's actually one of my favourite actresses as well, she's able to pull off many emotions very well. I think when I watch her, she looks as if she truly is putting in such great work and effort and is dedicated to the role that she is playing. Though her eyes, they always seem to display a sadness that feels very real. I'd love to meet her at some point, I might even end up asking for her autograph~ Just thinking about it now, hahaha..."
Ino's lips curled upwards.
This was a new side to Ryouta that she hadn't seen before.
One that she definitely enjoyed.
"Hehe, sorry about that, I kinda got a little too into it."
"No, not at all~ I'm glad, that means we can share our love of Yukie-chan together~" Ino sang out as she pulled him forward. "Then what are we waiting for! Lets go!"
With that, Ino dragged Ryouta off, with Inoichi looking on in shock.
But then he began chasing them down.
He didn't want to interfere with his daughters date, he just wanted to make sure that she was happy.
On the orders of Orochimaru, Kabuto had finally begun to be able to walk around the streets of Konoha. Because he hadn't been detected during the Chunin Exams, he was able to begin making sure that he and his Master's plan, was able to go off without a hitch.
For assistance, while they weren't all that strong, compared to Kabuto, he had the Oto Genin assisting him. However, Dosu seemed to be in particular not exactly on board with what was going on.
He recalled back in the forest, what had happened. And he remembered about how Orochimaru was trying to place Curse Marks on the two Uchiha, yet at the same time wished for them to do them harm, things didn't add up in his mind.
"Before everything goes down, you three have some tasks from Orochimaru-sama."
Kabuto began, but Dosu spoke up.
"What is it that we have to do? And I've got some questions myself."
Kabuto showed a slightly annoyed look.
"What is it?"
"It's about the fact that Orochimaru-sama sent us on a mission that didn't make sense. Back in the forest, we were sent to go after the Uchiha's, and yet Orochimaru-sama wished to place Curse Marks on them, so why did he want that?"
It was an easily answered question in Dosu's eyes.
But Kabuto remained aloof.
"It isn't for us to question his ideas. Perhaps he wished to get rid of them once he couldn't get his mark on them. Orochimaru-sama, is the reason that we all have the ability to live as we do, and if you're questioning that now, then I'll have no choice but to tell him myself."
Dosu winced as Zaku, now recovered from his injuries Sakura gave him, coughed into his hand.
"I don't care about that shit, I just wanna make that pink haired girl pay for what she did to me!"
Kin held a hand to her mouth.
"Right, you lost to a girl that seems to care more for her hair care than anything else."
"I recall you not doing much better either!"
Zaku argued with Kin, Dosu remained quiet.
He felt like there was more to what Orochimaru had wished for.
And why Kabuto was there in the first place.
To Dosu, it felt like they were sacrificial pawns, and he didn't like it.
"Enough of this pointless arguments. You'll all have time for whatever personal vendettas that you have. In the meantime, you all have to help me. Otherwise, you'll be cut off. Orochimaru-sama doesn't tolerate failure, and because you failed back in the forest, this is your last chance for redemption."
Zaku and Kin smirked to themselves.
Dosu on the other hand wasn't as receptive to the idea, and he wasn't sure what to think about all of this, least of all what Orochimaru had in store, and more importantly if he wished for Orochimaru to get what he desired.
That...was something Dosu felt more and more stern about.
Kabuto on the other hand could see that Dosu wasn't acting like he usually would when Orochimaru would ask something of him, and knew that he'd have to investigate this a little more before understanding fully what was going on.
Meanwhile as that was going on, Karin was training together with Anko. Because both Ryouta and Haku were having their own training elsewhere, Anko thought that now would be the best time for them to finally be able to improve some of her basic skills, and make sure that she would be ready for what challenge that came for them.
"Seems that I'll have to try even harder Sensei."
Karin said as she fell on her back, breathing hard.
"Ah well, I'm sure that you will do. You are my student after all, and I know all of my students are bad ass!"
Karin felt the corner of her lips curling upwards ever so slightly.
It was very like Anko to say something akin to that.
However, as she did, for a split second, she felt something in the distance.
It felt like the thing back in the forest that had attacked and saved Orochimaru from the others. Who had attacked and Lee had fought off. Karin wasn't there at the time, but she remembered sensing such a dark presence and the fact that she had sensed it once more was something that caused her to have a troubled face.
Anko also noticed it, and raised an eyebrow.
"What's wrong Karin? It looks like you have seen a ghost."
Karin bit her lower lip.
"I didn't see a ghost...but it's like I have felt one."
Anko looked perplexed.
"Sorry?"
"Back in the forest...that snake man, Orochimaru, he was attacking Ryou-kun and the others."
Anko recalled how that happened. Even if she wasn't there she had been given the details of course.
"How come you're bringing it up...h-have you sensed Orochimaru?!"
"No...he isn't in this village, at least I haven't sensed him anyway. But I do remember he had an accomplice, and that person...I can't place it, but I feel like I've sensed it in passing before. It...I don't know Sensei, but just then for a second or two, I sensed it again."
"...His accomplice huh..."
Anko was worried.
If that person was in Konoha, then there was no telling what might happen.
"Yeah...he fought Lee-san, and...I could have sworn I also sensed him try an attack again on the group when we were away. But since then I haven't been able to sense him. Until now Anko-sensei. For a split second, I sensed his presence...but now I can't. It's weird, I'm searching for the presence now, and I-I just can't sense anything at all."
Anko gave a troubled expression, knowing that she'd have to go and speak to Hiruzen about this.
"I see...and you aren't sure who it is?"
"I wish that I did, that guy helped a man that was trying to kill us, and even worked together with Zosui..."
"Don't you worry about Zosui, that guys under lock and key. And this guy that tried to attack you...at least it isn't Orochimaru. But if that guy has returned….it can't be good. Karin, do you mind if we hold off training for today and could you accompany me to Hokage-sama's office?"
"I don't know if I'll be much help Sensei, but I'll do what I can."
Anko walked over, petting the top of her head.
"Any help is better than nothing at all. And if this guy has come back, it gives us something to at least sink our teeth into. If he's in the village, then he might...lets go."
Karin nodded her head, and believed in what Anko thought would be best.
Though right now, she felt as if she couldn't do much as she didn't even know who the guy was. But she could have sworn deep down somewhere she had sensed the chakra. But it wasn't coming to her, as she had sensed a good deal of chakras, and remembering them all could be tricky for her, especially since she didn't get good enough reads when she was a large distance away.
Though she was determined to try and help out in anyway that she could, knowing that the others would be doing the same thing if they were in her shoes.
Having gone to the movies, Ryouta and Ino sat together at the second to last row of seats. Inoichi sat behind them, trying to be as inconspicuous as humanly possible, while Ryouta and Ino enjoyed the movie together.
They had gotten some popcorn, and so they were eating that together.
As they reached for the popcorn at the same time, their hands connected, causing Ino's face to turn red, Inoichi on the other hand didn't look pleased in the slightest. He was okay with Ino dating, that wasn't the issue. But because he was her Father, he naturally wanted to make sure that his daughter was happy and satisfied.
As he watched, he saw that Ino was genuinely happy.
He wanted to be happy for her as well, and he knew Ryouta wasn't a bad guy.
He just needed to know that he'd defend Ino if she was in danger.
He knew of some of Ryouta's exploits over the years, but he didn't know him personally, so he was curious as to what was going to happen next.
However, as they were watching the movie together, Temari happened to come into the area. Her eyes went towards Ino, and she flashed a small smile. It was one neither of hostility or one of anger, or anything.
But to Ino, it was unnerving all the same.
Ryouta noticed that Ino's demeanour had seemingly changed, so he bent towards her, and whispered so they'd not disturb everyone else in the room.
"Is everything alright?"
Ino's eyes went towards Ryouta, and gently nodded.
"Y-Yeah, fine."
Ryouta could tell that it wasn't.
His eyes went towards Temari who gave a keen wave towards them.
Ino's eyes averted themselves, while Ryouta furrowed his brows.
"Is it because the girl from Suna is here?"
Ino didn't want to admit that it was.
She wasn't afraid of Temari.
But she was a reminder of how tough other people could be, and that she'd need to be stronger.
So seeing Temari reminding her of that fact caused Ino to have a few feelings on the matter.
"No, no. It's totally fine."
Ryouta wasn't convinced, and could see that Ino seemed to be uncomfortable.
So he budged closer, and placed a hand on top of her own.
"Don't worry, lets just enjoy the movie, okay?"
Inoichi was caught by surprise by the words he used.
They weren't words that he'd expect.
But the words themselves were filled with that of comfort, and protective feelings that Inoichi wished for a suitor for his daughter to have. One that would comfort and protect whenever he couldn't do that.
Meanwhile, Anko had taken Karin to Hiruzen and explained the situation. As she did, Hiruzen wasn't thrilled by it, and he knew that this could be dangerous if the person Orochimaru was working for did something, and only confirmed that Orochimaru wouldn't give up so easily.
"...And that's all I can say Hokage-sama. I wish I knew who it was, but right now..."
Hiruzen placed his hand out and offered comforting words.
"No, please don't worry about it. It is our jobs to ensure the safety of the village, thank you for bringing this to our attention. And I would like to ask, if you sense this person again, then please immediately alert us to this situation."
"Y-Yes, of course Hokage-sama. I want to sense them out now, but for whatever reason, I can't feel them. Usually, it wouldn't be an issue if we're in the village, so I can only conclude that they've either left, or they've managed to hide themselves from even me."
Hiruzen was also perplexed.
But he presumed it was thanks to Orochimaru.
He knew Orochimaru wouldn't risk coming to the village just yet.
But he was curious as to what a subordinate wished for.
"Then you're dismissed."
Karin bowed, and walked out of the office.
As she did, Anko's eyes went towards Hiruzen.
"If what she felt is real, then it means he hasn't given up."
"I know, it was only a matter of time. But if this individual has hidden themselves from even Karin...it means that Orochimaru has a mission for them that they'd have to complete without being detected. If we could know who it was, then our sensors would be able to make a difference...but since we don't, we'll have to double, maybe even triple the patrol."
Anko clutched her hand.
"But if we don't know who it is...how can we make plans against them? If the Fourth was here...then we wouldn't have to worry about Orochimaru. Even if she was here...then she'd make short work of him as well...Garaga was right, this wouldn't be happening if she was around..."
Hiruzen knew she was right.
Even though he didn't want to admit it to himself right now, he wished that they were in fact there.
"Yes...if either of them were here then we'd not have to truly worry so much. But the fact of the matter is that they aren't, and we have to work with what we have got."
Anko folded her arms.
She thought about who could be the best person to help them out.
When she came to a conclusion that should have been obvious, but at the same time wondered how they'd even pull it off.
"Could it be Danzo that's helping him out?"
Hiruzen furrowed his old brows.
"He's under lock and key and monitored all times of the day. I'll investigate it, but I can't see how it would be him."
"We never did find all of his subordinates, did we?"
"We can't be sure if we did or not, we've thoroughly gone through everyone...but even I don't know how deep his Root ran. This is turning more and more troublesome as time goes on...now I'll have to ask our best sensors, and top people to try and find someone that we can't be sure we're looking for..."
Anko could see how the task could be difficult.
They'd have to do everything they could, even then they were unsure of how they were going to continue.
However, it also was something that they'd have to do, no matter what.
"Until then, what about the Uchiha's?"
Anko asked, worried that Orochimaru might try something with them when they weren't expecting it.
"You're right, I'm having them be placed under protection, at least until the end of the Chunin Exams. For the moment, I know of the locations of the pair, I'll visit them tonight, and explain about what's going on."
Anko felt a little more relieved by that.
But she couldn't shake the feeling that Orochimaru was going to try something sooner or later, and if they weren't prepared...then it could spell disaster for them.
After watching the movie together, Ino and Ryouta walked hand in hand to go and get something to eat. Ino could see that her Father was still following them, but she paid no attention to him and simply kept it in Ryouta instead.
By the time they had made it to a place to eat, she had even forgotten that her Father was in fact following them.
When they sat down together, Ino and Ryouta just talked, and she got to know him even more. Beyond the normal stuff she knew like what he liked to train in, she found out more about his hobbies and other things.
But thinking about Temari, Ino's face lowered.
"Say Ryou-kun..."
"Hmmm?"
"...I've seen Sakura grow a good deal stronger lately, she managed to beat that Zaku guy, and then she tied with that Dosu guy as well. And I even heard she was able to lend a hand to Satsuki and Naruko during the fight with the snake guy. Compared to that, I feel like she's pulling ahead of me..."
Ryouta could understand the worries that she had.
Sakura and her were always the best of friends.
Seeing Sakura's skills increase, and her feeling like because she lost to Temari that she wasn't catching up as quickly.
"Ino-chan, Sakura-chan and you are different people and have different strengths. If you want to become stronger, we can work together to find out what your strengths are. But from the match with Temari-san, I saw a good deal of what your strengths are, and it is easy to improve upon them and make you stronger."
Ino's cheeks began to turn red.
His words, and how willing he was to help her out brought happiness to her.
"Y-You think I can?"
"Sure, it isn't a problem. Say, did you get a chance to speak to Karin-chan about sensing?"
Ino laughed awkwardly.
"No...I tried once, but she seemed...lets say distracted by a picture of...you."
Ino sweat dropped, remembering the incident and shuddered.
Ryouta didn't even want to know what had happened there.
"Oh, I see. I spoke to her about it, and she gave me some useful tips about how sensing works and how it can be applied."
"Y-You did? Just for me?"
Ino was touched if that was the case.
Ryouta nodded as he took a bite of the food that he had.
"Of course, I care about you Ino-chan and want to you succeed as much as possible."
Ino felt a pulse erupting from her heart.
Inoichi was also touched by what Ryouta said, and knew it wasn't a lie.
He could tell from his location that it wasn't, and due to his skills, he could definitely tell what was going on inside of Ryouta's head, or at least had a very good understanding of what was going to happen next.
"Say Ino-chan. I've got something to show you after this."
Ino blinked.
"Y-You do? What is it?"
"It's just somewhere my brother used to take me, you get a really good view of the village. It's one of my favourite places."
Ino was intrigued, and finished eating her food quickly, then they left together.
A small time later, Ryouta and Ino sat on a hill together, with thick trees surrounding them.
Inoichi followed behind them in anticipation, and the more he did, the more he realized how foolish he was being.
At first, he thought that he'd follow them to make sure that Ino was safe.
But the more he thought about it, the more he came to realize was it was his insecurities and nothing to do with the person his daughter had chosen to go out with and who she had a crush on, he just wanted to make sure she was safe, and he believed that he was taking it far more seriously than he should do, which made him feel guilty for not trusting in his daughter.
"Isn't the view great? I could spend hours looking over this view."
Ino looked over towards the village, seeing the bright lights and though she couldn't make anyone out, she could hear the noise of the village. It seemed so peaceful, and she really loved it.
But what she loved more was being together with Ryouta.
"Yeah...it really is. Say Ryou-kun, I'm not cutting into your training, right? I mean, I don't want to distract you..."
Ryouta waved his hand.
"Don't worry about that, sometimes resting and having fun is what is important. My brother said that to me once, when I was young."
"I'm glad, I was getting worried. I don't want to hog all your time or anything...but, I am glad that we could go out together, it's been like how I thought it would be...no, it's been even better than that."
Ryouta smiled, and scratched his cheek.
"Was it good? I was a bit nervous to be honest."
Ino wore surprise on her face.
"No way, you weren't~"
Ryouta smiled, nodding a single time.
"I know how to fight, but this is something I'm not used too."
Ino giggled, as she pulled closer.
Allowing her hand to rest on his right thigh, she gave a kind smile in his direction.
"Don't worry, you've been nothing but a gentleman to me."
Inoichi watched his daughter, and saw how happy she was.
How she looked as if she was having the time of her life, which brought a smile to his lips.
But at the same time, it also brought something else.
"What am I doing…? Ino's trying to have fun and I'm here spying on their date. It is as she said...he has been nothing but a gentleman to her...maybe I was just worried for nothing..."
Inoichi felt some guilt come over him and hoped that he hadn't ruined his daughters time out together with the boy she had a crush on.
So when he went to leave, he saw Temari walking up. Remembering his daughters look of worry, he held back and waited to see what was going to happen.
"Well, if it isn't the Uchiha and the mind switching girl."
Ino stiffened as her eyes turned towards Temari.
Ryouta glanced up towards her.
"What are you doing here?"
Temari pulled a cute expression on her face as she bent down towards them.
"Now, now. Don't sound so suspicious. I was just walking along and happened to find myself here."
"You're lying, you've been following us. At the movies, the restaurant, and now here."
Ryouta expressed, surprising Ino.
"W-Wait, why have you been following us?"
Temari showed a cool smile.
"It isn't what you think, I don't really care about your date."
"Good, because you're ruining it!"
Temari twitched her eyebrow.
"I'm ruining it?"
"Yeah, that's right. And come the Chunin Exams match, Shikamaru is going to beat you!"
Temari showed a small smile on her face.
"Is that so? The lazy boy is going to defeat me? If he's anything like you, then I wont have to worry."
Ino gripped her hands together, while Ryouta's eyes focused in on Temari.
"You might have won your fight, but Ino-chan pushed you to a good degree."
At his words, Temari shrugged her shoulders.
"It was a minor set back, and I had been using a good deal of my chakra. If the fight happened again, she wouldn't get that far."
Ryouta didn't believe that was true.
He had seen how the fight had gone.
While Temari was stronger, Ino had pushed her, and was able to corner her as a result of her quick thinking.
"Even if that was true, your opponents shouldn't be underestimated Temari-san."
Temari folded her arms.
"You know, Gaara's gunning for you, don't you?"
"Yes, I know that."
"Aren't you scared of her?"
Temari asked, genuinely wanting to know.
She hadn't met anyone that wasn't even the least bit afraid of her.
And those that weren't, had the power to stop her like Pakura.
But for Ryouta, that was an unknown and Temari wasn't sure what he was feeling.
"No, I'm not afraid of her."
Temari was taken aback by that.
"Why not?"
"Because I'm not. There isn't really much more to it. Yeah, she's strong, but fearing her, I can't say that I do. I'm too curious to fear her. But why are you asking about that anyway? Are you afraid of her?"
Temari didn't want to answer that.
Instead, she turned and looked out over the village.
Thinking about the plans to crush the village, she like Pakura was beginning to have a small doubt.
But like Pakura, she also felt like she'd have to do it for the village.
"Uchiha boy, Gaara will crush you."
Ino scowled, and stood up.
"How dare you say that?"
Temari was stunned as she turned her neck back, seeing the scowling Ino.
"What are you talking about?"
"You don't know that, you can't say one way or the other who is going to win. Besides, you don't know anything about Ryou-kun!"
Before, it seemed that Ino was intimidated by Temari.
But now, when she had something to say, she wasn't going to back down and get her thoughts out.
"I know he took down Kushimaru of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen."
"Yeah, exactly!"
"But it doesn't mean he can take down Gaara. She is on another level."
"Even if she is, Ryou-kun wont give up!"
Ino said it with being so sure that even Temari was surprised.
Seeing Ino go from being worried, to showing bravery, it was clear how she felt.
So Temari pulled back, believing she understood a bit more now.
"By the way, you saved me back in the forest when Gaara went a little crazed. I suppose I should thank you."
Ryouta didn't know if she actually was, or she was contemplating it, so he covered both bases.
"You don't have to thank me for that."
"Good then I wont." Ino ground her teeth as Temari smirked. "You best be prepared for the exams, because I know one way or the other, Gaara is going to come for you. And when the time comes, if you're not prepared, then she will try to kill you."
"Are you threatening Ryou-kun right now?"
Ino demanded, Temari shook her head.
"No, just a warning."
"But why? Isn't she your sister?"
Referring to Gaara, Ino wondered why Temari was even bothering warning the competition of anything.
"Heh, I do as I like, that's all."
Temari's answer wasn't satisfying to Ino.
But then she saw Temari open the fan on her back, and jump onto it.
As if she was riding the wind, she took off high into the sky.
"I'll be waiting Uchiha boy. Don't disappoint now."
Temari smirked as she flew off into the night.
Ino growled and thrust her fist into the sky.
"Yeah, you just wait! Watch as Ryou-kun kicks that Gaara's butt!" Ino shook her head as she turned back to Ryouta. "Ryou-kun, what was that even about? I don't get it. Did she follow us just to say that?"
"I wish that I knew, but I felt like that she wanted more than what she said, whatever it is that she wished for, I hope she got it."
Ino furrowed her brows.
But then turned fully to Ryouta, and showed a cute smile on her face.
"By the way, since this is the end...the end of the date...I erm...you know...there's things that girls and boys do at the end of the dates..."
Ryouta hummed.
"Is that so?"
He once more had a very good idea what she was talking about.
But he wished to see if Ino did want to as he watched her face turn redder by the moment.
"Y-Yeah...you know...it would be good if we did...s-so, do you want to k-kiss…?"
Like that Inoichi's brain was beginning to shut down.
He saw Ino and Ryouta blush at one another, he couldn't watch and turned his head, and ran off, startling Ino.
"Geez, I forgot he was there...that could have been embarrassing."
"Yeah, it really could have."
"So, we were..." She looked down at their connected hands. "...yeah, there...and...we should..."
Ryouta then pulled in closer, and laid his lips on top of her own, Ino's happiness levels shooting through the roof, as she placed one of her hands on top of his own, and her other hand laid on his right hip and Ryouta's free hand gently laid itself on her face.
Kissing for over half a minute, Ino pulled back, giving a happy smile.
"Ryou-kun...I'm glad that we could spend the day together, lets do it again sometime, okay?"
"Yes, lets."
Ino internally cheered.
Getting so far with a guy that she really liked, and how he supported her, comforted her, she was falling deeper into her feelings for him.
Her finger ran itself up his arm, as she peered into his eyes.
"So, you know, my Dad's not expecting me back for another hour yet. So...we could...spend that time together."
Ryouta smiled, clutching her hand in his own, causing her to blush brightly.
"I'd really like that, Ino-chan."
Ino smiled, leaned up and allowed her lips to press against his own once more, enjoying the sensations that she was feeling together with the boy she really did like.
The date...in Ino's eyes was a success, and she couldn't wait for more.
Ryouta also felt the same.
Meanwhile, in another part of the world, having heard of what happened with Lee, Izumi was able to get some of his medical details with her various connections, the same with Itachi's, and was going over them, holding them up to the light.
Though she couldn't physically be there, if she could give assistance somehow to Lee even from far away, then she'd at least try her best, and put the knowledge she had inside of her head to good use.
"...The damage does seem bad and the medications they've given him should ease the pain, but without seeing him for myself...even then he's got good doctors so I shouldn't be worried...even then Lee-kun, I hope you're okay..."
She hummed to herself, as the door opened, revealing it to be a blue haired young woman wearing the same cloak as Izumi came walking inside.
Her name being Konan, and her eyes immediately went towards Izumi.
"There you are, what are you doing?"
Izumi held the notes to her chest, and shook her head.
"Nothing, just seeing about something's, that's all Gods Angel."
Konan's face remained rather stoic, but her eyes displayed slight amusement.
"You don't have to call me that."
"I know, but it's really fun~" Konan raised an eyebrow. "So, what's going on? Being called here all of a sudden."
"Your expertise is needed for a job we've received. Human anatomy knowledge is needed."
"I see, then show me the way and I'll do what I can."
Konan nods.
But then stops when she saw a sad look in Izumi's eyes.
"Is something wrong?"
"Oh...nah, it's nothing. I was just thinking of some people I know, that's all. Wishing I could help them or be there for them...alas, I'm here. Can't change that you know?"
Konan gave a slow nod.
"I do know what you mean. Though, I always find it...nice to know someone like you is within our ranks."
Izumi gave a curious stare.
"Someone like me?"
"Someone that's very approachable and kind, I like that. You're the weirdest member of the Akatsuki for those reasons."
Izumi giggled.
"Well, I've always been a bit weird~"
Konan's lips curled upwards for a few moments, but then stopped, and turned to the door.
"When you're ready."
"Yes, I'm ready Konan-chan."
Konan gave a nod, as she and Izumi walked out together.
As they did, Izumi's eyes glanced at Konan and thought "She really is also different to the others..." as they walked off together.
As Ryouta returned home that night, he was surprised to see that Hiruzen was sat in his living room. Satsuki also who stood close by with Ryouta, looked on as the old man looked towards them, before waving his hand for them to come closer.
"Hello both of you, I'm sorry for dropping by unannounced. However, a new situation has presented itself."
"Situation? What situation?"
Satsuki asked, as Ryouta moved closer.
"Is it to do with..."
"Orochimaru." That wasn't who Ryouta was going to ask about, as he thought about Tobi. But he believed Orochimaru made sense as well. "Back in the forest, I believe you were attacked by an unknown assailant, am I correct?"
Satsuki was the first to nod.
"Yeah, we don't know who he was, but he was pretty skilled. We didn't see much of him...why are you asking? Has this person been sighted in the village?"
Satsuki asked, Hiruzen nodded.
"No, but we aren't sure of his current location and we have reason to believe that he might be in the village. We are doing our best, and if this person is indeed connected to Orochimaru, then until that time comes, I'd like to ask for your cooperation and have security on both of you."
"Security?"
Satsuki asked once more, Ryouta however believed in what Hiruzen was saying.
"It makes sense Satsuki-chan, if this man is back, then we have to be prepared, don't we?"
Hiruzen inclined his neck.
"That's correct Ryouta-kun. That's why, until at least the Chunin Exams are over with, I have placed a bodyguard on both of you. We can't spare many, but one each would be best. For you Satsuki-san, it will be your Mother, and Ryouta-kun, yours will be Hayate Gekko-san."
"Who's that?"
Satsuki asked, and Ryouta glanced at her, seeing that she looked genuinely perplexed.
Ryouta lightly smiled.
"The Chunin Exam proctor. Remember, during our matches."
Ryouta answered.
Satsuki furrowed her brows, and thought about it for a few moments.
But then remembered who he was talking about.
"Oh...the guy that coughs a lot?"
Ryouta found it a little funny that's how she remembered him.
Hiruzen gave a slightly bemused look.
"He might indeed cough a lot, as you said. However, his skills are able to speak for themselves. And because we have our other Anbu and Jonin looking for this person in case he tries anything along with Orochimaru should he show his face once more, we thought that this would be the best solution. We can't be one hundred percent sure this person is in Konoha, however we have on good authority that he has a high percent chance of being here as I said beforehand. For the time being, please cooperate with Mikoto-san and Hayate-san should an enemy make themselves known. I am sorry if this is an inconvenience to you both."
Ryouta could see that Hiruzen's words were hard for him to speak about.
"It's okay, it is best to be safe than sorry isn't it Hokage-sama?"
"Yes, that's certainly right."
Ryouta glanced at Satsuki seeing that she had a look on her face that told him she was feeling unsure. She didn't want to be a burden, as she was trying to be strong and now that she could be a target, she hoped it wouldn't slow down her or she wouldn't slow down the capture of Orochimaru and whoever else it was that was in their way.
Ryouta himself thought about what was the best way to deal with the situation.
Though if Orochimaru came, he knew he'd have to be ready. Even with a guard, it might prove to be too much. Ryouta presumed the reason why they both had guards was to make sure that whatever was coming next, they'd have to be ready.
And Ryouta definitely was going to make sure that he was ready, no matter what was to come.
End chapter!
So this chapter focused a bit on Ryouta and Ino's relationship, while Kabuto begins invading the village for Orochimaru. Though it seems that Karin picked him up, even if it was only slightly and how Hiruzen's onto him, giving Ryouta and Satsuki protection knowing that Orochimaru is quite obsessed with them. So we'll see how that goes. And Temari seems to also be having some doubts, and Pakura showed her own once more, and even gave Temari a little advice about them. Izumi even appeared for a little part, showcasing some worry for Lee, even interacting with Konan for a little while.
Well, until next time, thanks for reading!
Ryouta; Satsuki, Sakura, Naruko, Hinata, Gaara (fem), Ino, Haku (fem), Kurotsuchi, Karin, Konan, Mei, Anko, Samui, Hanabi, Mabui,