Early Summer

by Yumiko Haruno

Reliving the fire burning down all that was ever known and ensnaring her in a time loop of constant illusion… She will come to accept. For them she was nothing but inside the loop she was someone… She would have to decide. ( A/N: Modified). [Alternate Timeline]

6. Chapter 6

6

They stood tall and straight, their posture filled with commitment and obedience as the Hokage gave out her orders to the team of eight.

"There has been rumors of a possible hideout belonging to Orochimaru near the far north of the Land of Earth."

Their Hokage's strong glare kept them frozen in place, especially the youngest in the Hokage's presence.

"This is by far a Rescue or a retrieval mission. Do I make myself clear?"

They responded unanimous, "Hai!"

"You are to infiltrate the hideout and gather as much information as you can. The rest is in this scroll. Depart as soon as possible. Dismissed!"

"Haruno!"

The teenager stopped and turned to face the Hokage.

The older woman narrowed her eyes hiding the bottom part of her face with her folded hands.

"As the medic of the team you are held responsible for their wellbeing."

The teen hesitated for a second before bowing and leaving the Hokage's office with new strict orders bestowed on her.

Haruno Sakura was to not engage with Uchiha Sasuke if he were to be inside the hideout. She would have to stay behind and wait for her team to get out and together make way to the Hidden Leaf Village before the Hidden Stone Village found of their unwanted presence in the Country of Earth.