*I DON'T OWN NARUTO*
It had been a little over an hour since Naruto had separated from the rest of his team. The morning in Koka had started out quite lovely, but as Naruto leaped from branch to branch the sun was slowly being consumed by thick grey clouds. Naruto looked up at the sky as his shadow began to fade from below him. He was growing exceedingly frustrated with his search efforts.
"I don't understand what the hell is going on here. This chakra signature keeps disappearing on me and then it pops up in random areas. It's obvious now that this individual is no longer here, but that doesn't explain the erratic behavior of their chakra."
Naruto paused for a moment to gather his thoughts. Just then a low bellow of thunder rumbled in the clouds above.
"Oh this is just great, as if things weren't already peachy," muttered Naruto. I just hope it doesn't rain right away, I'm not in the mood to get wet."
Naruto sighed and turned his attention from the weather to the trail of chakra he had once again lost. He looked down at the ground below him and decided to change his searching strategy. He jumped down and stretched his arms up high.
"Oh well, if I can't sense the chakra then I'll just have to rely on good old fashion tracking."
He pulled out his map and began gaining his bearings. It had been ages since he had relied on a map, but that didn't mean he had forgotten how to use one. Suddenly Naruto stopped dead in his tracks, the large chakra signature he had just lost was getting stronger.
He looked around cautiously making sure all his senses were on alert. Once it was obvious that he was alone Naruto wasted no time concentrating on the chakra signature and its direction. He picked up its trail and grew wary of its position. He looked back town at the map he was holding and it was then that his blood ran cold.
"What the hell, it's heading towards Konoha. This can't be, why in the world didn't I sense it during our travelling, and why didn't we encounter these guys on route here!?"
His heart began to race at the thought of Sakura being alone and unaware of the dangers heading her way. The young Jinchuriki took a deep breath and forced himself to calm down.
"Alright I need to calm down and think things through. I'm no good to Sakura-chan if I can't keep my head straight. So then, how could something like this happen right under my nose? Maybe this person took a side route? I guess that could explain things, but I should have still sensed them. Damn it, I could use some help here! Snapped Naruto.
A low growl suddenly filled his head. The fox demon was obviously annoyed by the rude awakening it had received from its host.
"I would have liked to have thought that you could handle a simple task like tracking someone's chakra, but it seems I was wrong," yawned the Kyuubi.
"There were some unseen complications. I've hit a brick wall, and things aren't looking good, I need your help."
"Fine then, what's the problem."
"The chakra that we sensed earlier literally has a mind of its own."
"Don't speak such nonsense."
"No I'm serious, I know it sounds crazy but I don't know what else to think."
"Why have you come to such a ridiculous assumption?"
"I kept losing the chakra's trail, it randomly disappears and reappears. After some searching I found it again, only this time it's on the same path we took while entering the village. That signature was heading towards Konoha, and for all we know that person is already there."
"That can't be!" Snapped the Kyuubi.
"I know I don't understand either, why weren't we able to pick up on the signature sooner?"
"..."
"Please tell me you know what the hell is going on here?"
At first the fox demon said nothing to Naruto, but after a few minutes of silence the Kyuubi sighed heavily.
"I think I know what's going on, and it isn't anything good Naruto."
"Well then fill me in already."
"What's probably going on is that this person we've been sensing knows all too well how our powers work. They've been leading us on a wild goose chase. There's only one way a person can hide their chakra, their scent, and even their intent, and that's through a power forbidden chakra concealing jutsu."
"If they knew about my heightened senses, and that I can sense chakra too, then that must means they're working for Sasuke."
"That's right, that Uchiha brat made sure this person concealed their chakra so that you couldn't pick up on their presence at all. However this jutsu only lasts so long, and after a few hours it starts to fade. That's why you kept losing the trail of chakra. This person has been running around the whole forest like a maniac to throw you off track. You started getting bits of the chakra because the jutsu is wearing off. Soon we'll be able to fully sense and smell this conniving fool."
"This is bad, Sakura-chan has no idea about anything. I was an idiot for not telling her about Sasuke sooner. Now because of me trying to be overprotective of her feelings she can be in real danger."
"Calm down Naruto, get a hold of yourself."
"..."
"We need to find out who this person is, and there are some individuals here who have that information."
"The bandits…"
"Exactly, those vermin have information that we desperately need. We have to act fast, the safety of our mate and pup is at stake."
"I know, the good thing is that Kento hasn't shown himself. So for the time being we're in the clear, but we still must hurry."
Naruto put his map away and press his communicator, as he started sprinting quickly towards the village
"Guy's what's your status?"
"I was just leaving last minute instructions with the nurses on duty," said Moegi.
"Everything's good on my end Naruto-niichan, the southern border of the village is clear."
"The northern border is clear as well Naruto-Taicho."
"Alright, now listen up you three were confronting the bandits. Meet me where we split up. I'm hauling ass right now so make sure you're there. Also if you haven't already, put on your rain coats, it looks like it's going to rain."
"Right!"
Naruto picked up his pace and made his way towards his three young team mates. A few minutes later he was pleased to see his team waiting for him exactly where he had asked. They eagerly awaited his next orders.
"The location of the bandits is due East," said Naruto as he put on his beige rain coat.
"Wait, what happened to that other chakra you were sensing Naruto-niichan?"
"That individual is no longer here, and from the looks of it they were headed towards Konoha."
"They're in Konoha?" Yelped Udon.
"Yes, so there's no time for further explaining. You'll just have to follow my lead on this. Now when we confront these guys I want you three to handle the lackeys. I'll provide support with clones. Once you have them subdued, tie them up, and confiscate anything they may have on them. Chances are most of their gold belongs to the villagers."
"What about you, what are going to do?" Asked Konohamaru.
"I'm going after the leader of the group, there's some questions I have that need answers. Now enough talking, let's head out!"
With that said all four shinobi dashed quickly towards the East. Naruto made his way up towards the trees and the kids could see why. The villagers from Koka were walking around the village and Naruto wanted them to have very little contact with the civilians. They soon entered the dense woods and a light haze shrouded it. The clouds had become darker and in the coverage of the woods one would think it was night time.
Thunder began to roar, and soon it began to sprinkle. Naruto groaned in irritation as small droplets of water hit his face. He shook his head quickly and continued to lead his team towards their targets. There weren't any stealth tactics to follow, this was a straightforward attack. Those bandits wouldn't know what hit them. After a few minutes of running at top speed they grew closer to their prey.
"Kage bunshin no jutsu!"
Four clones appeared next to him, and Naruto swiftly released his Kunai from his sleeve.
"We're almost there, get ready."
In an instant Team Naruto ran into the bandit's campsite. The unsuspecting men began to scramble desperately for their weapons, but they weren't fast enough for the young shinobi. Before they knew it their campsite was hit by various shuriken, smoke bombs, and kunai's.
"What the hell is going on!?" One man screamed.
"They're fucking shinobi, ignore that they're kids and fucking kill them!" Another yelled.
Konohamaru silenced that man before he could spit out anymore commands. A good swift hit to the back of the neck is all that was needed.
"Nice one," said one of Naruto's clones, but we have a few more to take care of."
Konohamaru nodded and he quickly followed the clone to finish off the rest of the men. Even with the chaos around him Naruto was able to scan the area for the bandit leader. He quickly located his target and made a break for him. He left his team to finish off the rest of the riffraff as he made his way toward the back of the campsite. Soon he found himself face to face with a large man who was easily three times bigger than Naruto. This guy was your typical thug. He was very muscular and riddled with scars on his arms and face.
The large man was sitting in front of an open fire with a large mug in his hand. Across his lap was a rather large lucerne hammer. He took a swig from his mug and tossed it aside when he was done. He leaned back into the large tree behind him and yawned.
Apparently the weather wasn't bothering him, as his body grew soaked by the rain. Finally the man acknowledged Naruto and he slowly looked at the blonde shinobi before him. He then glanced at his team of men being tied up.
"You've got balls kid. Not just anyone would barge in here and attack my men kid. I'm guessing that old geezer in the village hired himself some fancy shinobi. It was only a matter of time I suppose, but just so you know, I'm not coming easily," said the bandit as he popped his neck.
"Oh please spare me the idle chit chat," snapped Naruto. "Now look, I'm not only here to pick up the garbage, but you have information that I need."
"Ha, so I have something that you want huh, now isn't this a wonderful situation. Perhaps we can work something out then?"
"..."
"Let's see, how about me and my men's freedom for this precious information you so badly want."
Naruto retracted his kunai into the spring loaded holster he had strapped under his right arm. He glared at the man before him, he wanted to beat the man to a bloody pulp, but he needed him to talk.
"Look, I'm asking nicely, and there won't be any deal worked out here, so I suggest you speak up."
"Alright kid you're really pissing me off with this high and mighty attitude of yours. I'm no pushover like my men, and I won't hesitate in killing you, and your team," warned the bandit as he tighten his grip on his hammer.
Naruto had had enough, he rushed the man and punched him in the stomach. The bandit lurched over with his mouth wide open. He gasped for air, but before he could catch his breath, Naruto grabbed his throat and pinned him roughly against the tree behind him.
"I know you're here out of fear, and believe you me you won't know what real fear is until you see me mad," growled Naruto.
He tighten his grip on the man's throat and bared his elongated fangs. The bandit struggled and pulled at Naruto's arm. The poor fool was expecting to break the young shinobi's hold on him, or perhaps his arm, but he had no idea who he was dealing with.
"Are you ready to talk?"
"Yeesss…"
"Good, now hurry up and tell me why you've been here for months," said Naruto.
He released the man and waited as he gasped for air. The bandit rubbed his throat and looked up at Naruto wide eyed.
"You really got some strength there, just who the hell are you kid?"
"Talk!" Ordered Naruto.
"Right... my me ...and I come from Kumogakure. We were hired by a women named Fuyu a few months back. She offered us a sweet deal, one that I couldn't refuse."
"..."
"She wanted me and my men to jump, loot, and capture, wandering travelers, traders, and even just townspeople. We could have whatever they had on them of value, plus Fuyu would pay us extra when we gave her the bodies."
"Did you kill them then?"
"No, we were just doing what bandits do, the only difference was that someone was paying us for our services. Anyhow after a month we met who we were really working for. Turns out that Fuyu was working for Uchiha Sasuke himself."
"Sasuke…"
"Oh so you've heard of him, well then again who hasn't right?"
"..."
"Anyway, I only met him in person once, the other times he did this creepy projection thing, it wasn't natural. His eyes were terrifying to look at, that kid is one scary mother fucker. Over the years I've met people who are cold hearted and cruel. Oh but nothing beats this guy, he's just pure evil."
"Where did you meet him, did you see his hideout?"
"No, we met in different places, we had more contact with Fuyu then Sasuke, but all of our meetings took place in Kumogakure, right under the Raikage's nose."
"Why did Sasuke want the bodies?"
"Well from what rumors we heard amongst the others he hired he wanted them for experiments. He was basically using these people as lab rats. Something about perfecting some virus, I'm not really sure what the hell he was doing. All that mattered to us was the money, and for a while things were good, that was until things went sour with us and Fuyu."
"Sour?"
"Yeah all of a sudden that bitch turned on us and started snatching my men. She said that Sasuke wanted no loose ends, something about us being a liability. So I took what men I had left and we made a run for it. We lost her for a while here in these woods so to regain our wits we stayed here. Then yesterday that bitch turns up in our camp and I was sure we were done for. She toyed with me and told me we were old news. Apparently she was doing a much bigger job for Sasuke. She said she had to take care of something in Konoha for him. Then she and her party just left just like that."
"Tell me everything you know about Fuyu."
"At first glance she just looks like one fine piece of ass, but she's one deadly vixen. That and she's insane, I always thought it was a shame that she was a looney. Anyhow she's got long jet black hair, and is one of them fancy taijutsu masters. So she's no pushover kid. She also has a big ass cat with her all the time. So if you want to get to her you gotta deal with that cat's claws and fangs."
"Is that all?"
"Yeah that's all I know really, no need for any beatings or anything."
Naruto ignored the bandit's last comment, he too was busy thinking about his next move. Suddenly a crackle of thunder rang out, and a flash of lightning illuminated the darkened campsite. This quick flash of lighting gave the bandit a good look at the young man's face that was in front of him. His eyes widened, and he frantically tried to crawl away from the shinobi before him.
"Holy shit, you're him, you're Uzumaki Naruto…"
Hearing his name snapped him out of his train of thought and Naruto looked down at the fear stricken man. He reached for the man's shirt and effortlessly lifted him from the ground. He pulled him close and glared at the bandit.
"I'd consider yourself lucky if I were you, and if you want this luck to continue, then I suggest you inform your men that their cooperation would be greatly appreciated."
With that said Naruto threw the man back against the tree. Konohamaru and the others wasted no time in restraining him. He was seated next to his men once the rope tied around him was secure.
"Everyone has been captured Naruto-niichan, and all valuables have been confiscated. What do we do now?" Asked Konohamaru.
"We're heading back to village to give our status report to the village elder. Then we leave for Konoha immediately. Kuchiyose no Jutsu!" Yelled Naruto as he placed his palm on the wet floor.
A huge red toad well over 10 feet appeared before everyone. He croaked loudly and lowered his large body to the floor. He then slowly began to open his mouth. Naruto walked over to some of the tied men and hoisted them up so they were standing. He pushed them towards the toad's mouth.
"In you go," he ordered.
"You want us to go in there? That thing's going to eat us," one man yelped.
"Stop being such a pussy and get in there you spineless fool!" Ordered the bandit leader.
He much rather walk into a toad's mouth willingly, then have to deal with Naruto's wrath. All the men walked slowly into the toad's mouth, and once the last bandit was inside the toad closed its mouth and swallowed them whole. It then disappeared as quickly as it had appeared.
"Wow that was awesome, that's one sweet way to transport these guys to prison," said Konohamaru.
"That was utterly disgusting," said Moegi.
"Agreed," replied Udon.
The rain picked up, and it was now pouring.
Naruto ran his fingers through his soaked hair. "I hate the rain," he muttered.
"Oh Naruto, I wasn't expecting you all back so soon. Was the weather too bad to locate the bandits?" Asked Watari as he stood in his doorway.
"Oh no sir we're done, we located the bandits and have them in our custody. They'll be coming with us to Konoha for imprisonment."
"Oh my.."
"Here, I believe a great deal of their loot belongs to your villagers." said Naruto as he handed over a large sack.
Watari was still in shock at how fast everything was happening. He reluctantly took the bag and looked back at Naruto.
"I can't believe that my stubbornness kept my village suffering for so long. If I would have asked for help sooner things wouldn't have gotten so bleak."
"Don't blame yourself sir, really. All that matters is that your village is safe now."
"I suppose you're right," whispered the old man.
"Watari who's at the door?" Asked Momo.
The plump old woman soon joined his side, she smiled warmly at the soaked youths in front of her.
"Oh my, please come inside it's pouring outside," begged Momo.
"Thank you ma'am but were in a rush, we're needed back home immediately."
"Is everything alright? Asked Watari.
"It will be as soon as we get there," replied Naruto. "Now I'm making sure that new supplies leave Konoha today. They should arrive here no later than tomorrow. Also at your request a team of shinobi can stay here in your village if you'd like. However I can assure you that your village's trading paths are safe once more."
"That all sounds wonderful Naruto, but I'll take your word that we're safe. Believe me if we need help I will not hesitate to ask."
Naruto grinned at the old man while Moegi approach the village elder.
"I'd like to add that I left extra medical supplies with the nurses at your clinic. There should be more than plenty to last you until you get your new supplies," said Moegi.
"Thank you all so much, you've really saved us all."
"It was nothing sir, it was our pleasure. Now we hate to rush but we really must be going," said Naruto.
"Oh but it's awful outside you'll catch your deaths out there if you travel now," said Momo."
"Don't worry ma'am, I'm using a special technique that will take us home instantly. So we won't be traveling in this weather," assured Naruto.
"You see Momo shinobi's are full of surprises,"chuckled Watari.
Momo rolled her eyes at her husband's remark and instead of lecturing the old man she leaned towards Naruto and hugged him. She then made her way to his younger companions, making sure to give each one a warm hug as well.
"Now please, promise me you'll be safe when you get home," said Momo.
"We promise ma'am, everything will be alright," replied Naruto.
He shook Watari's hand and said goodbye to the elderly couple. He then lead his team away from the porch and back into the rain. Before anyone could ask what was going on Naruto spoke.
"Kuchiyose no Jutsu! Yelled Naruto.
The classic white smoke appeared again, but there was no 10 foot tall toad in front of them this time, instead it was a small toad.
"Where's Sakura-chan Kento, is she alright?"
"Yeah boss she's staying at Shikamaru's, she's actually still asleep right now."
"Good, has anything strange happened since I left?"
"Actually yes, there was an incident last night. Shikamaru will explain everything."
"Alright, take us home Kento."
Shikamaru left his kitchen while finishing up a piece of toast. He had stayed up most of the night, and hunger had started plaguing him. He wasn't much of a cook, and Ino was passed out on the couch, while Sakura was sleeping in his room. He didn't want to wake either one of them, so for now some buttered toast would have to hold him over. He nibbled on his meager breakfast when out of nowhere a loud pop, followed by plume of white smoke, engulfed his entire apartment.
Before he had any time to react he heard Ino scream. Shikamaru quickly ran in the direction of her voice. He couldn't see a thing, but he knew she was close. He reached out for her, and he nearly choked on his food when Ino instinctively wrapped her arms around his neck in fear. She pulled him down to her chest all while crushing his throat. He quickly broke away from her grasp and Ino swiftly grabbed onto his midsection. Shikamaru sighed at her exaggerated behavior, but he said nothing.
Soon a figure started to take shape, and Shikamaru instantly knew who it was, it was Naruto. The smoke started to thin, and the more it lifted the more Shikamaru could see. Finally the apartment was smoke free, and there in the middle of the living room stood, Naruto, Konohamaru, Udon, and Moegi.
Shikamaru felt Ino's grip on him loosen, he watched as she marched up to Naruto and smacked him on the back of his head.
"Damn it Naruto, you scared me half to death! I thought Shikamaru was burning the damn apartment down!"
"Sorry Ino, we had to get here ASAP."
"Well why couldn't you of have your summon reverse summon you outside?"
"Sorry…"
"My god you guys are soaked, let me get you some towels," huffed Ino.
She quickly made her way to the restroom to retrieved some towels for her friends. When she returned, she was in better spirits. Naruto and his team removed their wet coats and began drying themselves.
"Nice entrance," chuckled Shikamaru.
"You know me, I always gotta make a statement."
"Seriously."
"So what the hell happened last night?"
"I woke up around 3am to take a piss, but when I was done the entire atmosphere in my place had changed, and I knew I was being watch. Sure enough Kento told me the person had just left, but there was someone indeed watching Sakura and I."
"I had the girls go to bed in my room while I stayed up here in the living room."
"Did Sakura-chan find out She was being watched?"
"Yeah, she woke up while Kento and I were talking about our unwanted guest, so I had no choice but to let her in on things."
"So what did you end up telling her?"
"Ino and I tried to keep information minimal, but Sakura wasn't having it. We ended up telling her everything, we knew, Sasuke and all."
"I was afraid of that, then again I should have just told her the truth from the get go."
"We're sorry Naruto, we tried."
"Please don't apologize, I should have never asked you guys to lie for me."
"..."
"Where's Sakura now?"
"She's still asleep in Shikamaru's room," said Ino.
"Alright I'll wake her up so we can leave. My team and I need to report to Tsunade-sama."
"I'll go with you guys, I need to let Tsunade-sama know what happened last night."
"Sounds like a plan," said Naruto.
Everyone stayed in the living room making small talk while Naruto walked into Shikamaru's room. Sakura was sleeping soundly in his bed. Part of him just wanted to leave her sleeping, but he knew it wasn't safe to leave her, or any of his friends here. Naruto knelt down by the bedside and placed his hand on her exposed shoulder. He gently nudged her from her slumber. Soon a pair of jade eyes were focusing on him.
"Naruto?" Whispered Sakura.
"Hey Sakura-chan, I'm home."
Sakura's eyes shot open when she realized she wasn't dreaming.
"You're really here!" Exclaimed Sakura.
She wrapped her arms around Naruto's neck.
"I was so worried about you after I...wait a minute...why are you here?" Asked Sakura as she pulled away from her boyfriend. "Why did you come back so quickly, you didn't abandon your mission did you?"
"Of course not."
"Then why.."
"Sakura-chan there really isn't time to explain. Just get dressed, you'll get your questions answered the sooner we leave, so hurry."
Sakura reluctantly nodded and began to gather her clothes. She quickly got dressed and followed Naruto into the living room.
"Alright everyone gather around Kento and hold still," ordered Naruto.
Kento croaked as everyone took their place around him. He waited for Naruto to give the order. Once everyone was ready Naruto nodded at Kento and in an instant they were all gone.
Tsunade sat at her desk, she was beyond frustrated. She couldn't stand how her paper work got higher, and higher, with each passing day. Given if she actually worked on it things would be different, but she couldn't stand being a paper pusher. Suddenly she turned her attention to the middle of her office, and a few sections later a loud pop was heard, and her entire office was filled with white smoke. She folded her hands and placed her chin gently upon them.
"A reverse summoning…"
She waited patiently, and soon she saw several of her shinobi walk from the smoke. Naruto was one of the first and he quickly made his way to her desk.
"Baa-chan we need to talk, Konoha has been infiltrated by one of Sasuke's underlings. You need to alert the ANBU and any other shinobi you can."
Tsunade's calm demeanor began to fade. She looked Naruto over and could tell that he wasn't over exaggerating.
"Do you know the identity of the intruder?" Asked Tsunade as she rose from her seat.
"Yes, her name is Fuyu, she's in her early 20's, is thin, and has jet black hair. Apparently she's not mentally stable either, which added to her being a very powerful taijutsu master, makes her incredibly dangerous. She's also not alone, she's accompanied by her men, and a large mountain lion."
"I saw her last night," said Sakura.
"You did?" Asked Naruto.
"Yes."
"When and where exactly?" Asked Tsunade.
"Lee-san and I saw her entering the village gates yesterday night around 9:15 I think. Lee-san is the one that noticed her, he could tell she was a taijutsu master."
Just then an ANBU member appeared next to Tsunade. He quickly bowed in front of her and awaited his orders.
"Yes Hokage-sama."
"We have an intruder in the village, alert everyone. She entered yesterday with her mountain lion, and team of traveler's, so check all the taverns and lodgings in town. She's a very skilled fighter, and is mentally unstable, so proceed with caution. She's in her early 20's, and has long black hair."
"Her eyes are yellow too," added Sakura.
"You got that?"
"Yes Tsunade-sama."
"Good, make sure she's captured alive."
"Yes ma'am," said the ANBU member.
He quickly disappeared leaving everyone else alone in silence.
"I'm assuming your mission in Koka was a success?"
"Yes, the bandits responsible for Koka's misery had been working with Fuyu, and Sasuke. The bandit leader informed me that his men had a falling out with them and in an attempt to hide they stayed in the woods bordering the village. Fuyu found them though, but instead of killing them she told them they weren't worth her time, and that instead she was heading to Konoha."
"This is why you reversed summoned back home?"
"Yes."
"Last night someone was outside my apartment too Tsunade-sama. Luckily Sakura was staying at my place, so we waited for dawn to inform you. Naruto arrived while I was getting ready to leave."
"All of this is completely unsettling…"
Naruto listened as Tsunade spoke, but a change in the air caught his attention. He took in a deep breath, it was happening now. He quickly ran towards the window looking below for the people he sensed.
"Naruto?" Asked Sakura.
"She's started her attack," said Naruto.
"What were?" Asked Tsunade as she accompanied Naruto by the window.
"I'm not sure exactly where, this stupid concealing jutsu she has on is complicating things, but, she hasn't gone unnoticed, someone's confronted her."
Naruto closed his eyes to better hone in on Fuyu and her movements. He noticed she was fast, but the person pursuing her was faster. Numerous explosions surround the village. Everyone else ran towards Tsunade's office window and looked down below. A fight was in commence and smoke was billowing from different parts of the village. Naruto began to crawl out of the window when he felt someone grab his sleeve.
"Where do you think you're going? Asked Sakura.
"I'm going to stop this psycho before she kills somebody."
"Then I'm going too," replied Sakura.
"No you're not, you're staying here with Baa-chan and my team," said Naruto sternly.
"Uzumaki Naruto I am not a child!" Snapped Sakura.
Naruto looked at her and his expression soften.
"I know you aren't Sakura-chan, but you are carrying one," said Naruto as he placed his hand on her belly.
With that said he, Shikamaru, and Ino leaped off the roof of Hokage tower. As they got closer to the ground they could see that Team 11 had intercepted Fuyu's men. Lee was in a heated battle with Fuyu herself, while Tenten and Neji fought her men.
Shikamaru and Ino pulled back and landed on the roof of a nearby building, while Naruto landed on the floor. He ran towards the battle and made his move.
"Kage bunshin no jutsu!"
Several clones appeared and branched out to the numerous areas Naruto's friends were fighting. He watched as Lee quickly dodged the women's attacks and once he she was open Lee hit her in the solar plexus. In that moment Naruto came up from behind her and wrapped his arm around her neck. He threw her roughly down to the ground.
"Now Lee!" Yelled Naruto.
Lee knew exactly what to do, and he gave her another blow with his fist right in her solar plexus. Fuyu gasped for air, her body hit the floor with such force that cracks began to form on the ground underneath her. Suddenly numerous shadow tentacles wrapped around her limbs.
"Gotcha, now go get her Ino," said Shikamaru.
"You got it babe, Shintenshin no Jutsu," said Ino.
Her body went limp and she slumped over onto Shikamaru's body. He looked back at the battle below waiting to see if his girlfriend's attack was successful. In a matter of seconds Fuyu's body went limp. Shikamaru's shadow technique brought the young women to her feet, and after a few moments she opened her eyes. She looked at everyone and branded them a smile.
"I'm in," replied Ino.
She fell silent again and closed her eyes. After a few tense moments Ino opened Fuyu's eyes again.
"She has a mind sealing jutsu on certain parts of her memory. However they aren't locked away entirely, so if you want to get your information she's going to have to tell you herself. I can't extract anything because of the seal, at least without risking my own safety."
"It's alright Ino, she'll talk. Go ahead and release your jutsu," said Naruto.
"You got it," replied Ino before she left Fuyu's body.
As soon as she left Fuyu regained consciousness and looked at her captures. She smirked at the sight and she didn't seem to upset that she and her men had been captured.
"Now look at me, aren't I lucky to have such an impressive audience. Not only do I have the attention of the Hokage herself, but I'm able to be in the presence of Uzumaki Naruto."
Naruto turned around quickly and saw that Tsunade had indeed jumped down from the tower. She was now being escorted by six ANBU members.
"Baa-chan…"
"You sure have a lot of nerve disturbing the peace of my village."
"..."
"Did you honestly think you could waltz in here without consequences? Just look around, you've failed miserably," said Tsunade.
"I suppose you're right, Sasuke's informant didn't do too well of a job with their intel. Naruto wasn't supposed to be here. I have no idea why Sasuke puts up with their half was spying."
"Who's his informant?" Asked Naruto.
"Now why would I spoil the surprise?"
"Don't test me," growled Naruto.
"If it makes you feel any better this was their last chance to prove themselves useful.
After this failure Sasuke will get rid of them permanently," said Fuyu.
"And you'll be spending your time in our dungeons," added Tsunade.
"Sasuke will come and get me. He'll save me once the time is right," cooed Fuyu.
"Sasuke doesn't risk his hide for anyone, what makes you think he'd come rescue you?"
"Because he's going be so pleased with me, what with everything falling into place so perfectly."
"..."
"So it doesn't matter that you caught me. I don't mind being Sasuke's sacrificial lamb."
"Enough," said Naruto.
"What's the matter Naruto? Don't you want to hear what else I have to say?"
"..."
"Not even about the virus?"
"What?"
"For being a medically renowned village you all failed miserably at figuring out what the virus's true purpose was. Plus your attempt at a cure was rather amusing."
"How was finding a cure amusing?" Asked Tsunade.
"For being a Legendary Senin you really are clueless."
"..."
"There is no cure Tsunade, all Sasuke has to do is wait. All of you will fall into a false scene of security as the months pass by and once the incubation time comes to an end Sasuke will strike, and all the great shinobi villages will fall," said Fuyu.
She violently threw her head back and laughed hysterically.
"Get her out of my sight," ordered Tsunade.
An ANBU member with a fox mask approached Fuyu. He looked her over and then in a flash he quickly hit certain pressure points on her body. Fuyu quickly went limp and Shikamaru release his shadow jutsu's hold on her. He and Ino joined everyone else as they all huddled by Tsunade.
"I'm calling an emergency clan meeting, it will held in the councils building in an hour. I want you five to make sure that there aren't any injured individuals and that our borders are secured. I'll see to it that reinforces are sent immediately to aid you," said Tsunade.
She briskly made her way back to Hokage tower while everyone else went their separate ways. Naruto quickly accompanied her by her side. Tsunade glanced at him as she quickened her pace.
"I know I wanted to keep you within the village walls before all of this, but things need to change. It was wrong of me to shelter you Naruto."
"Baa-chan..."
"I'll be announcing the formation of a tactical team at the clan meeting. It's soul purpose will be to track Sasuke down, and eliminate him. I'm going to nominate you as the leader of this team."
"Seriously?"
"Yes, when it boils down to it you're the only person strong enough to defeat Sasuke. Once the team is set you'll be leaving immediately. I can promise that while you're gone Sakura will be well protected."
Naruto stopped dead in his tracks when Tsunade mentioned Sakura. It was then that he realized that he couldn't be with her all the time, especially now. Tsunade turned around and gave Naruto a questionable look.
"Baa-chan, do you think you can do me a favor?"
"A favor, what could you possibly want at a time like this?"
"I need you to marry Sakura-chan and I."
"Marry you, right now?"
"Yes."
"How can you possibly be thinking about marriage at a time like this?"
"Well I..."
"This is about your inheritance isn't it?"
"Yes, but regardless, I want to marry Sakura-chan."
"Naruto you shouldn't run into…"
"If I'm going to be out there chasing Sasuke I need to make sure that she and our child are taken care of. I know I'm always so confident when I'm faced with a new adversary, but this time around I can't guarantee what's going to happen once I encounter Sasuke. I don't want to leave Sakura alone, but I need to be prepared if that does indeed happen."
"..."
"I need this marriage to be official Baa-chan. You know very well that if the council doesn't have everything in writing they won't give her not one penny of my inheritance if I die. That's why I need you to do this now."
"..."
"Please Baa-chan.
"Did you at least talk to Sakura about this?"
"I did, she said yes, and we even have her mother's blessing too."
Tsunade sighed and signaled for Naruto to follow her into her office. Shizune, Naruto's team, and Sakura were waiting for them inside. Sakura ran towards Naruto and embraced him.
"Are you alright? What happened down there?" Asked Sakura.
"It's okay Sakura-chan, Fuyu's been taken care of."
Sakura sighed with relief as she buried her face into Naruto's shoulder. Shizune quickly approached Tsunade, but before she had a chance to speak Tsunade held her hand out; Shizune froze.
"I'm ordering an emergency council meeting, it will start in an hour. I want you to alert the council, and clan leaders. I'm also going to need every able-bodied shinobi to go over and fortify our borders, and search for any possibly injured citizens. Shikamaru, Ino, and team 11 have a head start, see to it that they have back up. Now before you leave I need you to stay her for just a few moments."
"Yes of course Tsunade-sama."
"It's now or never Naruto," said Tsunade.
Naruto stiffened, this all seemed so easy in his head, but now that all eyes were on him, he couldn't help but feel nervous.
"What's going on?" Asked Sakura as she pulled away from Naruto.
She looked over at Tsunade, but her master's expression was completely neutral. She then looked over at Naruto's team for answers, but all of three of them we're just as lost as she was. All they offered her were confused shrugs. Sakura finally looked over at Naruto and her heart skipped a beat when she saw that he down on one knee.
"I'm not really good at this kind of stuff Sakura-chan. You know being romantic isn't really my forte, but I love you, and I want to be with you for the rest of my life. So will you do me the honor of being my wife?"
Shizune gasped, Konohamaru and Udon's jaws dropped, and Moegi gushed over the news in silence. Sakura on the other hand couldn't believe her ears. She could hear her heart beat in her ears, and she was a bit light headed, but besides that she was overjoyed.
"Yes Naruto."
"Oh thank god," sighed Naruto as he stood up. "I've never been so nervous before in my entire life"
Sakura couldn't help but giggle.
"Alright everyone, gather round, let's make this official."
Naruto and Sakura, along with Naruto's team approached Tsunade's desk.
"The five of us come together here to witness the celebration of the joining together of Uzumaki Naruto, and Haruno Sakura."
"Please, may the bride and groom join hands and listen to that which I am about to say. Above you are the stars, below you are the stones, as time passes remember, like a stone should your love be firm, and like a star should your love be constant. Let the strength of your will bind you together, and let the power of love, and desire, make you happy. Have patience with one another, for storms will come, but they will pass quickly."
"Naruto, in the name of the spirits of the gods that reside within us all, by the life that courses within your blood, and the love that resides within your heart, take thee, Sakura, to be your chosen one from now until eternity?"
"I do."
"Sakura, in the name of the spirits of the gods that reside within us all, by the life the courses within your blood, and the love that resides within your heart, take thee, Naruto, to be your chosen one from now until eternity?.
"I do."
"Then by the power vested in me as Hokage of Konoha, and by the laws of the Fire country, I now pronounce you husband and wife. May your love so endure that it's flame remains a guiding light unto you. You may now kiss the bride."
Cheers from every present filled the room when Sakura and Naruto kissed. Tsunade glanced over at Shizune and motioned her to look at a file cabinet next to her. Shizune instantly knew what Tsunade wanted. She walked over to the file cabinet, and rummaged through several files, until she found the proper paperwork. She handed it over to Tsunade who signed and stamped it. She then handed Shizune her pen, and she too signed the document.
"There's the marriage license, you two are now legally married, congratulations," said Tsunade."
"Always honor, cherish, and love each other."
"We will Tsunade-sama."
"Good, now please excuse my haste, but there's much that needs to be done. Konohamaru, Moegi, Udon, go help Shikamaru and the others. Naruto, I need you to take the bandits you captured to the interrogation building immediately. Afterwards I need the both of you at the clan meeting."
"Why would you want me their too Tsunade-sama, I mean I'm not part of any reining clan."
"Yes you are Sakura, the Uzumaki clan now has more than one member."
