Moving Forward

Hinata waited outside sitting on the steps of the Hokage building. At her side was a change of clothing for three people – herself, Naruto and Takeshi. She was prepared for yet another overnight stay in the hospital but the following day, Naruto would get to go home. It was bold of her especially since their parents now knew they were lovers but she planned on going home with Naruto. She needed to love him and they needed to talk. She couldn't blame him for what he'd felt he needed to do but she wished he had told her about it. "Oh well, it's not that big of a deal. Nothing we can't handle." Hinata looked up at the side of the building and wondered about the fate of their friends. "Don't be too harsh on them Mama Tsunade, they were just trying to protect us all."

She felt a little guilty that this was happening to them and she was sure Naruto would too even though neither of them had known what was going on. "Maybe we can do something for them, help them out with their punishments or something." Hinata laughed because if it was something bad, Naruto would think twice before offering help. They'd come up with something and be diplomatic about it too. Mama Tsunade was only doing her job and they couldn't undermine that. Hinata rested her elbows on her knees and put her face in her hands to wait.

Bodies covered with sheets were avoided. People stepped to the side and bowed their heads out of respected for the dead. Two medical nin entered the elevator and pushed the button that would take them to the morgue. Fortunately for them the two bodies were as still as death even though they lived. Neither man spoke but watched the lighted buttons on the panel.

A bell dinged and the doors opened. The morgue was to the left and to the right and down the hall followed by some steps was an exit. One nin opened a door and inside was a room full of linens. He placed several exploding tags about the room and shut the door. As he left the room he could see his partner already carrying a body in his arms. He picked up the other and they walked quickly away.

The explosion shook the hospital and an alarm sounded. Chaos took over as people screamed and ran about. Smoke made people cough and fire climbed the walls. In all the confusion, no one paid much attention to two nin seemingly carrying two patients out of the hospital for their safety. Takeshi and Naruto slept as they were kidnapped.

"Little sister, is everything alright?" Neji asked when he saw her on the steps.

"Neji! How'd it go?" Hinata jumped up and turned to stare at them. Shikamaru led and he looked resigned. Most of them did except for Kiba – he looked like he wanted to cry. "Bad?" She asked quietly.

"Bad enough." Sasuke said and picked up the bags. "Let's head over to the hospital so I can see him and know why I'm going through all this." He sighed but he didn't look angry.

"How about lunch first, my treat? You all missed breakfast then those fights and now this…it's the least I can do – we can do. It'll be Naruto's treat too!" She looked from Sasuke to Neji then kissed each man on the cheek. "Okay? They're sleeping, knocked out and they will be until tomorrow. We can go visit afterwards."

"Well I could eat! Need something to cheer me up!" Choji said moving by the rest of them anxious to leave.

"Umm, Choji…I don't have that much money." Hinata said softly with a small smile and the group started to laugh lightly at first then harder. The joke was what they needed after learning the Hokage's decision.

Choji was even laughing. "Always gotta make jokes about me! Whatever – I've got running tabs at all the best places but the first plate is on you and Naruto!" He pointed at Hinata then led the way.

It would take more than a meal and some laughs to get over all the changes that were sure to come. What used to be the Rookie 12 had changed to the Chunin 12 and now they were down to eleven. It wasn't that they had lost one in battle or in defense of the village but because of that stupid emotion called hate or maybe it was ambition or at the very least a mental affliction. In any case, Ino was no longer with them. Team Asuma was missing a member. Sakura had lost her friend. The Yamanakas had lost their future. But for now they would focus on a good meal and each other. There had been enough problems and all they wanted now was to forget them.

Black Ops took the whole afternoon to search the mountains, forest and river. The destruction was wide and far. It was hard to believe anyone wouldn't have tried to get away after those first few sonic booms but maybe someone had gotten trapped and it was as the Sannin had said, they needed to protect the Leaf. There could be serious consequences if anybody had gotten hurt because of Naruto and Takeshi's fight. The search was nearing its conclusion when something was found. It wasn't a body but a hide-out.

The one room building would never have been seen in the forest. One wall had been rock, a tight grouping of trees another, the rest had been earth. The force of the boys' chakra had crumbled the earthen walls. The trees had bent inward only the rock wall had remained standing. It appeared the inhabitants had gotten out safely if in a hurry but it was curious that whoever it was had chosen to hide in such a place and not wishing to be seen – not only that, but so close to Konoha.

"Send for trackers. I don't like this. Go – we'll look around some more!" The masked woman ordered. "I hope this is nothing but the way this place was set up…we could be dealing with rogue ninjas. Ninjas after something in our village." Her long dark hair was lifted by a breeze as she bent down to comb through some rubble.

"What are you doing here?" Tsunade looked at Lord Hiashi and Iruka. "Thanks to my new son, my day is horribly backed up. I'll see you two later this evening; we'll have dinner in his room alright?" She was tired. It had been hard to punish those children even though it was the right thing to do and they'd taken it fairly well. At least they hadn't complained to her, there's no telling what they said once they'd left her.

"Sounds like a good idea but we're not here for a visit. We're going with you to see you sentence Ino. I'm standing in for Naruto but…I need to be there too. It's just one person, just one paying for all the hurt he's had to endure and I need to see it done. And I'm here for you; you're the Hokage but his mother too. As Naruto's parents, we should see this done together." Iruka placed his hands on her desk and leaned over it his brown eyes compelling her hazel ones.

"She did this act on Hinata as well. How I kept from killing that child I don't know." Hiashi said then hung his head. "But I also need to be there because – the girl told the truth. What she said about us – how we treated Naruto and how we thought about him – I'm guilty as sin." His lavender eyes were full of pain and shame. "Until my daughter fell in love with him and begged me to give him a chance – I was one of those people she spoke of. I'm sorry Tsunade, Iruka." Lord Hiashi faced them in his shame.

Iruka straightened and turned to look the man in the eye. "And now? How do you truly feel about my son?" His voice was quiet, his face impassive.

Hiashi blinked several times then smiled softly. "I love him. I'm proud of him. I want all his dreams to come true." He lifted his hands in wonder. "He gave me back my daughter and my family. We smile and laugh and share our lives now! I couldn't believe it when Hinata and Neji spoke so well of him but for that smile he puts on her face – I'd kill for him. I may not have adopted him but Naruto is a son of my heart." His smile dimmed. "I've much to make up for, ask his forgiveness for. All that starts now. I'll stand with you before Ino in defiance of her words to the truth I now know. Naruto is human, a man to admire and respect. He is the next Hokage."

Iruka's smile could also be seen in his eyes. He held out a hand to Hiashi and the two men shook hands. Now they were family. "Good enough." He looked over at Tsunade. "So it's time isn't it? Let's but this last thing behind us and see what type of future our kids will show us."

Tsunade had crossed her fingers and leaned her chin on them as she watched the two men. For so many years it had been just her and Shizune. She'd forgotten what it was like to have so many friends let alone people she could call family. These two butted in on things that didn't necessarily concern them but when they did it was out of love. She stood went first to Iruka and kissed his cheek then gave Hiashi one. "Okay then, we'll stand as one – one family." Tsunade smiled at them but then lost it. "Unfortunately we have to take apart another family." The three walked arm in arm back over to the hospital.

Iruka frowned as they entered the prison wing but headed towards not the patient rooms but to another part of the building he'd never been in. They approached a door locked with not only a conventional lock but a seal as well.

Hiashi looked over at Iruka with a question in his eyes but he could clearly see that Iruka didn't know about this place either. Together they watched Tsunade perform a series of hand signs before placing her hand over the lock. Words shot out from her hand. She then used a key to open the manual lock. Tsunade seemed to steel herself as she opened those doors.

Once inside she relocked the door but didn't reseal it. It was very quiet in this place. There was a nurses' station and what appeared to be some offices, break room and possibly sleeping quarters on one end while locked rooms lined the other hallway. There were small squares in each door for the nurses to peer into and rectangular openings at the bottom of the doors with locks for the passage of food trays.

Iruka gasped and looked at Tsunade in horror. "Is this – is this where Naruto -? Oh God…" He swallowed loudly.

"What? What about Naruto?" Hiashi asked then seeing Tsunade's hate of the place and Iruka's distress, he finally got it. Hinata had told him of Naruto's beginnings and this was that place. Hiashi found his breath coming faster. Just being here in the hallway was making him claustrophobic.

"My Lady, this way please." A nin said as he rose from behind the nurses' station.

Tsunade wanted nothing more than to take Iruka's hand as they walked that hallway with only their footsteps making any sounds but she was the Hokage and weakness, especially here and now could not be allowed.

About the third room down, they stopped outside of the door where two Black Ops ninja guarded the door. Once the door was open, all six people entered the room.

White everywhere. Padded walls, ceiling and floor. Any sound would be absorbed by that padding. Bright white lights glared down on everyone. A hospital bed had been placed near the back wall. Chairs had been brought in for Inoichi and his wife as they looked down at their only child bandaged and bound to the bed.

Iruka felt sick to the stomach. He moved into Tsunade's line of sight and silently asked if this was the room. At her nod, he closed his eyes and clenched his fists. His first inclination was to destroy it. Iruka wanted to tear it down with his bare hands – make so that it and what had happened to Naruto had never existed.

"Lady Hokage! Surely this is too much!" Ino's mother stood and waved her hands about the room. "Ino was wrong – she knows that now! Don't lock her away…down here…please!" the woman took her daughter's hand and begged for leniency.

Tsunade looked down her nose at Ino. "Is this true? Do you admit you were wrong to rape Hinata's mind and use her as weapon against the man she loves? Do you take back everything you said about Naruto not being human or that he doesn't have the right to live? Speak girl – this will be your last chance to do so!" So hard her voice was that Tsunade wondered why the hospital floor didn't give way beneath them.

Ino couldn't raise her head – it was strapped to the bed. From neck to feet, her body was bandaged and everything hurt so much that it brought tears to her eyes. She could move her hands but her wrists were bound. Her legs hadn't taken as much damage still they too were bound at each ankle. Only with some help could she even hope to free herself. She'd begged her mother but her father wouldn't let her. Even as injured as she was, if she could just get free – she would try and escape this hell! She hadn't even been there twenty-four hours yet and it was driving her insane.

If lying will get me out of here then I'll lie my damn head off! Why this place? Normal prison is bad but this…I'll never survive it! Ino didn't try to hide her tears. She squeezed her mother's hand and pulled out her little girl voice.

"I'm sorry! I didn't mean it! I was just-just scared." Ino whimpered. "I wanted – just wanted to protect everyone from the Nine-Tailed Fox that's all! Everyone's always talking about how it almost destroyed the village." Ino blinked as tears rolled into her hair. "I-I lost sight of Naruto and only saw the fox. I made a mistake! Please forgive me!"

"See how sorry she is! My baby should be allowed a normal hospital room! And heal her! Please Lady Tsunade or you Lord Hiashi – you can repair the damage that Hin- you can heal her! Please don't make her suffer like this." The mother begged.

Ino wisely didn't plead for herself anymore but softly called out to her mother who leaned down to wipe her face and kiss her. She would rely on her mother to get her out of this and then she could plot her escape and revenge.

Inoichi inhaled deeply and stood up. He turned away from the bed to stare at a white wall. "You'll lie your head off to get out of here. You'll let your mother convince the Hokage to let you out of this place so that later you can escape and get revenge." He paused with the pain he felt. "You're so selfish Ino. Did we make you that way?!" Inoichi looked over his shoulder at Ino. "If you did escape, your mother would most likely be locked away because I'm sure she'd help you. She loves you enough to give up her life for you but can you say the same?" He turned to stare at her.

Ino's eyes went wide. Her father was inside her mind! He knew exactly what she was thinking! "Father – why? Get out of my mind! Damn you!" She jerked on her bonds then screamed in pain. "Momma make him stop! Make him get me out of here! I don't deserve this! Obey me Momma – listen to me! I did nothing wrong! MOMMA!"

Ms. Yamanaka backed off Ino in shock. She looked at Ino and saw her baby but there was also a stranger there. That stranger wanted to use her. That stranger cursed the man who was her father. A stranger who didn't see the wrong in all she'd done. She hesitantly backed away and into her husband's arms. "Inoichi – what happened? Did we – did we do this to her?!" She hid her face against him and cried.

Iruka watched it all with anger and sorrow. The girl was truly sick but fully aware of every action she took. He began to see Tsunade's reasoning to be absolutely correct. He moved until he stood at her side. He wanted Ino to know he was there.

"WHAT?! QUIT STARING AT ME! MOMMA! YOU HAVE TO HELP ME I CAN'T STAY HERE! THIS IS INHUMANE!" Ino couldn't help but struggle even though it gave her pain. Maybe they would see this was wrong - that her fear of this place would change their minds.

"You're right – it is inhumane." Tsunade said effectively silencing Ino. She waved one hand about. "This place was built during the ninja wars. It was a place where enemies were experimented on and shut away for the safety of the villagers. Most don't even know this place even exists. I wish I didn't." Tsunade crossed her arms as being in the room chilled her.

Ino's harsh breathing and the soft sobs of her mother were muted in the padded room. Tsunade found herself speaking louder to keep her voice from disappearing.

"Those memories you stole from Hinata – you learned how Naruto was treated when he was three but obviously Hinata hid this part well, perhaps she buried it as we have tried to do. Naruto doesn't remember this place, thank God but he lived here the first few years of his life." When Iruka cupped her shoulder, Tsunade was grateful for the warmth.

The Yamanakas froze as did the Anbu. Ino frowned as if she didn't believe it or just didn't care. Each of the others looked the room over with new horror. Just the thought of a baby locked inside this room left wounds in each of their hearts. Never could they look at Naruto again without picturing a crying baby in this silent prison.

"Unlike Naruto, you'll have constant care. You'll never go hungry, you won't be drugged into a stupor and you won't be hosed down when you soil yourself. I'll even allow you visitors so you'll know the sound of someone's voice besides your own. Your parents can come twice a month." Tsunade looked at her parents. "You should know this room contains various seals for blocking chakra and the nin are highly skilled in genjutsu. Anbu will be present at each visit. You'll be asked to remove all clothing and put on nin whites. You'll be checked before entering and leaving this room."

Mrs. Yamanaka eyes went wide as she looked from the Hokage then back at her daughter obviously thinking that the precautions were unnecessary. Ino wasn't that dangerous. "No…it's too much My Lady! Please don't do this to my child – Please!"

Ino's anger was the only thing keeping her quiet. She was too incensed to form the words her hate produced. He – IT lived here?! Why should I live in his pen?! Ino growled in frustrated anger.

"My first inclination was to kill her." Tsunade said flatly. "It's within my rights as Hokage and the laws of this village to end her life – plus it is my desire as Naruto's mother! I want Ino dead!" Tsunade snapped then took a breath. "Hinata, bless her, could have killed her easily but instead she just incapacitated Ino. With shinobi medicines and care, Ino could leave the hospital in a few months but these are not normal circumstances. Ino committed several crimes. She'll be cared for but no advanced healing will be used. Her body will heal on its own or not. The rough estimate for that is five years." Tsunade ignored Ino and her mother's protests. "You will spend that time here – all of it. When she's healed, Ino will be moved to medium security nursing home." There was always the chance that Ino could change, realize her mistakes but Tsunade believed Naruto would go to the moon before that ever happened. "Understand me – this is a life sentence. If you would prefer death…"

"No! No please don't kill my baby. This is - her sentence is…we accept this." Ino's mother finally said but it was far from the truth. It will kill her slowly over the next several years to see her child this way but at least Ino will be alive.

"This is for him isn't?! He put you up to this – locking me away in this torture chamber! I'll get out. I swear I will then I'll kill all of you. Him and all of your so called family!" Ino screamed at Tsunade.

Tsunade smiled as she looked down on Ino. "You're welcome to try you BITCH! Every day, every single day you're in here, my staff is going to find a way to permanently drain you of every OUNCE of your chakra! I bet you thought you'd learn some new jutsu and use these people to help you escape." Tsunade laughed with real pleasure as Ino suddenly looked scared. "'This little piggy stayed home.' That's you and this is your new home. The day you leave this prison is the day I or Naruto let you out!" It was still a long way off before Naruto became Hokage and just maybe she wouldn't tell him what she'd done with Ino.

"Naruto doesn't know anything about this place or what's happening to you." Iruka said as he looked down on the girl who suddenly seemed to realize just what was happening to her. "He was satisfied when Hinata beat the shit out of you. You mean nothing to him anymore – you're not worth his time Ino. Hope you're happy here!" Now Iruka smiled. It wasn't a smile of pleasure but of seeing someone getting appropriate justice.

Ino screamed at them all especially her parents. She spouted words that blamed them for not being good parents and helping her escape or killing Naruto and the Hokage. Ino berated her father for being a weakling. Anything and everything erupted from her mouth until Inoichi couldn't stand it anymore.

At first he slapped her then he used his jutsu. The two Anbu moved to apprehend him but Tsunade held them off with one hand. The silence after all the yelling was somewhat ominous as they watched father and child.

After five minutes, Inoichi opened his eyes. "She is my child, carries my name – I should have a say in her punishment as well." He looked down and cupped her cheek. The teenager looked comatose, her mouth hung open slackly. "I've locked her inside her mind. I sent her back – back when we were happy. She'll relive those moments until I release her the next time we visit." Inoichi was crying as he spoke, he was despair. "When she comes out of it and sees where she is now and her fate – it should break her. A few…years of this," His voice broke. "Maybe she'll learn. Maybe she'll love her mother as her mother and not treat her like a damn servant or berate us. I just don't know where I went wrong!" His tears dripped on Ino's face as he leaned down to kiss her.

"It's not your fault – either of yours." Lord Hiashi finally spoke. He'd remained silent all this time because being there was so damn hard. He kept seeing Naruto there alone and bereft of love or any type of care and now Ino, her mind so confused and consumed with hate having to live five years of her life here. Hiashi had begun to wonder if death were preferable. Now he spoke to the parents of the offender.

"I wasn't there for Hinata as she grew. I ignored my first born much to my eternal shame." Hiashi took a sharp breath and knew he'd take that guilt with him to the grave. "She received no love or guidance from me and yet, she became a beautiful woman inside and out. Hinata chose to be who she is just as Ino has. You obviously loved her and were kind to her but she chose a different path – one that led her here. Forgive yourself Inoichi. All you can do now is love her and know that we don't blame you and still depend on you as a friend and fellow shinobi." Hiashi gripped the man's arm in friendship.

"We truly don't blame you Inoichi – either of you." Iruka went to the shinobi's wife and gently took her hands. "I won't lie and say I've forgiven Ino – that will take time but you're still our friends and if you need anything, we'll be there for you." Iruka gave her a soft smile then gently hugged the woman who then broke down completely.

Tsunade had a few words with the nin and Anbu then decided it was time to go. "Let's give some time alone with their daughter. I'll speak to you two later about the arrangements." She stood by the door and waited for Iruka and Hiashi. When Inoichi and his wife bowed to her she nodded, gave them a kind look then left.

They didn't speak as they left the secret ward. Tsunade kept walking, moving quickly until she found an exit. She pushed open the heavy door with too much force for it banged back against the hospital wall. Finally in the sun she lifted her face and let the tears fall.

Iruka dropped down to the ground too weak to stand anymore. Sitting cross-legged in the grass, he too looked up and around at his surroundings blinking back tears.

Hiashi paced. He needed to move but he never once left the sunny grass to sit in the shade. It seemed to him that all of life's sounds were louder, the scents sharper and the colors brighter. "When he wakes, let's have dinner at my house – no a whole day, anything he wants to do. Iruka, you said he was a different person when you took him away. Let's give him a taste of that here. I want him to feel that happy here, right here at home with his family and friends. I don't know if that's possible but I sure as hell want to try!" His voice was too loud even to his own ears but the feeling and desire to make Naruto feel special couldn't be denied.

Tsunade went to him and stepped into his arms. "We will try." She normally tried to contain herself when in public but right now she didn't care who was watching. After being in that place, experiencing only minutes of what Naruto had to endure for years, she needed to feel connected to somebody. "Yes, for Naruto, we'll try." Tsunade huddled closer pressing her face into Hiashi's chest trying to chase away the chill in her heart.

"Yeah, it's a good idea and the right time. Koji and his family are going home in a week. With them here, it should be a really special day for him." Iruka looked back up at the hospital. "He likes being outdoors a lot. Hardly ever closes his shades at night. His new affinity for being in the rain and storms – ah Naruto." Iruka pictured his son as a baby alone in that white room with the extra bright white lights and nothing else. "I've got pictures of me when I was born, laughing in my dad's arms." He stood and turned to Tsunade and Hiashi. "No parents, no pictures and no laughter. It's hard to imagine him not laughing." More silent tears. "Teuchi was the first to see him laugh – God I wish I'd been there." Iruka looked so lost that Tsunade went to him.

"Me too but we'll take pictures now – lots of them. He's never been more happy Iruka. Hinata and Sasuke, us – he's got it all now. We've got to put that place behind us, like he has." Tsunade hugged him tight then let go to wipe away her tears. "Let's freshen up then go check on him. I need to see him, don't you?" She took his hand then held the other out for Hiashi.

"Oh yeah." Iruka found a handkerchief and wiped at his eyes. "He's such a kid when he sleeps." He laughed weakly. "Legs and arms, every which way!"

"Hinata will break him of that, one way or another." Hiashi said with a touch of humor and innuendo. They all needed to smile and his words did the trick. Laughing they headed back into the hospital just as an explosion rocked the building.

Kiba had perked up during lunch but headed home afterwards saying he'd be by to see Naruto in the morning. Shikamaru went for a walk with Temari. She was going home probably the next day and they wanted to spend some time together. Although the food had improved Choji's mood, he was still saddened by losing Ino so he went on home. Lee wanted to find Guy-sensei and train, hoping he could become as strong as Naruto. So except those few, everyone else headed over to the hospital.

"Why won't you tell me what Lady Tsunade said to you?" Hinata asked for the hundredth time. She still didn't know what their punishment was.

"For one thing, I don't want to talk about it." Sakura said linking their arms. "Kinda depressing. I just want to check on your man, smack him for scaring me and just go veg out. It's been a long, complicated day." She yawned indicating the sleep she missed since Naruto and Takeshi had woken them so early that day.

"And we don't want to repeat ourselves. It can wait until tomorrow when Naruto wakes up or later because I'm sure you'll want to talk to him about what he did this morning, right little sister?" Neji added with a laugh.

Hinata nodded. "I was just so relieved that it didn't work – Ino's plan." She held on tighter to Sakura. "I could hear everything she was saying to him and the pain in his voice." Hinata shuddered. "After she'd been taken away and we danced, all I could think about was how glad I was to still have him. Naruto still wanted me." Her voice caught.

Sasuke took her free hand. "Of course he wanted you. Once the little idiot finally saw you – you're all he wanted." Sasuke smiled. "He's always been a little weird but Naruto's always known what he really wants too – to be Hokage and you." He blushed when she stopped to kiss his cheek.

"It was one thing too much, just like his suicide attempt." Shino added in his forthright way. "Kabuto was able to push that one button that made Naruto think he should die. It was the same this time but Naruto had too much to live for now – he wouldn't try to kill himself again no matter what. It was when she was talking about how nobody was there to celebrate him that got to him. Hearing people say nice things but always wondering if it's true or not has to drive him crazy." Shino stopped and looked at the inhabitants of Konoha. "I wouldn't take it personally you guys that he didn't tell you what he was going to do. His power – we'll never understand it. We just have to accept that parts of Naruto will always be hidden from us. It was as Lady Tsunade said, he protected us from himself. He'll be better now and that's what counts." Shino started walking again.

Tenten shook her head. "So silent you almost forget he's there but when he opens his mouth, Shino generally has something good to say. He's right, Naruto will be okay and people now know."

"Know what?" Neji asked when she didn't finish.

"My baby brother's power. That fight was for him but now they know not to fuck with him. Mess with Naruto and those he loves and they're in for a world of hurt." Sasuke smirked proud of Naruto.

They were nearing the hospital, each silent as they thought about their conversation and its meaning. Naruto probably hadn't meant it as a display of power but that's what it was. One teenaged boy did indeed have the power to destroy but his will and control of that power was the lesson to be learned.

Hinata's expression cleared. "Well I'm just happy he's okay. The fox heals his wounds but I did worry about his heart. What Shino said makes a lot of sense. Now, now we can focus on the future. Yesterday and this morning cleared up a lot of things for him. Naruto's forgotten most of his past and that's a good thing." Hinata would do her best to forget too. "We can start off brand new now. I wonder how he'll feel about a spring wedding." Hinata smiled.

"Should we pray for rain? I bet Naruto would appreciate that!" Sasuke asked with a laugh then had to duck Sakura's fist. It was then that the sound of an explosion reached their ears and they saw smoke coming from the hospital.

"NARUTO!" Iruka and Tsunade both yelled but then their ninja instincts kicked in. Their son's room was upstairs and away from the explosion. For now he was safe, the staff would look after him.

"He's fine! Help me – get these people under control! Those who can walk, lead them outside! You – go find the source of that explosion! You people know your jobs – do them!" Tsunade started barking orders. She had Iruka helping out those patients who were panicking. Lord Hiashi with his Byakugan was sent to find the source of the explosion while the hospital staff was either evacuating patients or caring for those unable to move. She ran off to check her office and the precious medical files and records to be sure nothing had been stolen or destroyed.

There were no other explosions but they still needed to evacuate the hospital for safety reasons. Assured that her office and files were okay, Tsunade hurried to help the doctors who had urgent care patients and those who'd been in the middle of surgery. She queried those ninja that came to help but there were no answers as yet.

"DAD?!" Hinata's eyes consumed her face as she ran towards Iruka.

"IRUKA-SENSEI!" Sasuke yelled his heart thumping too hard at seeing the hospital smoking.

"Hinata – go to Naruto! Sasuke go with her and check on your brother!" Iruka yelled at the pair, happy to see them. "Neji – help your uncle find the source of the fire! The rest of you help get the patients out!" Naruto and Takeshi will be safe with them.

"Right!" The Chunins yelled.

"Master Jiraiya!" A Black Ops pair knelt next to the steaming pool of water.

Jiraiya was up at the hot springs relaxing for a change instead of peeping. He sat with a hot towel on his head which fell into the water as he was jerked out of a light sleep. "Huh, what? I'm sleepy guys – I stayed up late last night then was up watching Naruto all morning – let an old man sleep!" Since he was tired, Jiraiya wasn't above using the old man routine in order to get some peace.

"We found something Master Jiraiya – up on the mountain. Signs of rogue ninjas close to where Naruto was fighting." Now the Sannin gave them his attention.

"And?" Jiraiya sat up.

"And the dogs tracked two scents back towards the village and lost them. But there's more. On our way here, we saw smoke coming from the hospital and it was being evacuated. This could have been the work of those men we tracked." The masked man scooted backwards as the Sannin stood.

Jiraiya wrapped a towel around his waist. "Inform the Hokage and lock down the village." He got out of the water. "Maybe it's nothing, just somebody seeking help but a fire at the hospital where Naruto and Takeshi are? I'll take responsibility – GO!" He ran back to the changing room to get dressed. "Dammit what now?"

Hiashi followed the smoke. His eyes tracked it to the lower level of the hospital near to the morgue. There were already several orderlies using extinguishers on the fire that had escaped into the hall. Leaving them to do that, he searched all the remaining rooms and had just entered the morgue itself when Neji showed up.

"Uncle! Have you found anything?" Neji's Byakugan was already activated. He'd searched each floor on his way downstairs but had seen nothing. "It's chaos up there. What the hell happened?" His eyes inspected the insides of a dead body.

"It was an explosion. It rocked the building but so far that closet is the only thing that's been destroyed. This room is clean as well." Lord Hiashi turned to his nephew. Check the upper floors – see to Naruto and I'll take a closer look at that closet there's something suspicious about all this." He waited to hear Neji agree then hurried off back to the closet.

Neji knew Hinata was with Naruto so he decided to head up to the roof and work his way down.

Hinata dropped down into the familiar room and froze. The beds were empty. She made it to the bed her lover had been in and she lifted the sheet as if Naruto was hiding there. That's how Sasuke found her.

"They've already moved them?" He asked as he landed on the window sill.

Hinata blinked then let out a sigh. "They must have. Since he's the Hokage's son, they probably moved him right away. And Takeshi too." She let go of the sheet and started towards the door. "Come on, maybe they can tell us where he is. If Dad's worried, Mama Tsunade must be too." She smiled at him but Hinata's stomach felt a little weird.

Sasuke noticed. "We'll find him." He said and held out a hand for her.

Hinata nodded, glad to have him as a friend.

The bird call sounded and everyone froze in disbelief. There was another possible intruder in the village. They hadn't gotten over the sounds of the earth exploding from this morning yet. But fear set in and the villagers hustled their asses. In under thirty minutes, all the streets were empty. Houses, doors, windows even some club houses were locked up tight.

"What?! Who the hell ordered a lockdown and why?" Tsunade was sweating. She'd just managed to save two lives. One doctor had made a fatal mistake during surgery when the explosion happened. Another patient's heart had stopped as they were being evacuated. She felt exhilarated and exasperated at the same time. After all that, she did not need to hear that the village had intruders!

"Lady Tsunade. May I talk to you in your office?" Jiraiya walked up. He spoke formally but looked like he'd rushed there. His clothes were disheveled and his hair was a little wild.

Tsunade's heart dropped. "Get everyone out then check the hospital again. Be sure there are no more explosives. I want all available Chunins, Jonins and Anbu Black Ops standing by." She told Shizune then turned to go to her office but paused. Without looking back Tsunade said. "Bring me my son." That's all she said before striding off.

"Ma'am!" Shizune said blinking. Tsunade was really a mother now, to put her son first in the middle of a crisis. She hurried off to give the orders and locate Naruto.

The door shut firmly behind Jiraiya. Tsunade slipped into her private bathroom to wash her hands and face. Using a towel she reentered the office to face Jiraiya. "What happened?"

"There was someone – two – out there as Naruto and Takeshi were fighting. They'd made a hideout to match the surroundings and probably used a little genjutsu – it was never noticed. It has to be enemy or rogue ninjas. The Anbu used ninja dogs to track their scents. The dogs came straight back to the village. Maybe it's completely innocent or maybe Naruto's display attracted some unwanted attention. No sooner than the Anbu told me this than this fire happened here at the hospital." Jiraiya's expression was grim.

"A diversion but is it about Naruto or taking down the village? Dammit!" Tsunade threw the towel against the wall. "WHAT?" She screamed when there was a knock on the door, it was Lord Hiashi.

Hiashi entered cautiously. "This wasn't an accident. Exploding tags were used to start the fire. As of yet I've found no more tags. Neji is checking the rest of the hospital." He looked from one Sannin to the other. "A new plot against Konoha?"

Hinata comforted a crying baby. She and Sasuke had been drafted to help get the babies out of the nursery. They'd had a recent surplus of babies born so there were four newborns more than the staff could handle on their own. She held two babies, one crying and the other miraculously sleeping. Even though she'd been told where to take the babies, Hinata never stopped looking for Naruto. "Shh, little one. I'm sorry, I'll keep you safe but I need to find Naruto."

Hinata juggled the bundles as her eyes searched through the walls. Sasuke had already taken his burden outside and she was on her own. "Naruto where are you?" She wanted to scream his name but he was unconscious and unable to answer. Hinata also didn't want to upset the babies.

She spun around at the sound of running feet. Hinata gasped to see Neji striding her way. "Neji have you seen Naruto? Tell me you know where he is!"

Neji looked at his frantic cousin but she was gently holding the two babies. Her touch was gentle and loving even as her face showed anxiety. He took the sleeping baby from her. "He's not upstairs. How many floors have you searched?"

"This one and the two beneath it. Sasuke will probably check the others. This doesn't make any sense! Why can't I find him? Nobody knows where he is!" Hinata pressed the baby against her chest then paused as it rubbed his tiny face against her breast. "Oh he's hungry. I'm sorry precious, I'm not your mommy." She cradled the little one with a look of longing on her face. It ought to feel awkward holding the baby but like Naruto on their last mission, it felt normal. He wasn't hers but babies were love and she couldn't resist kissing him and wishing he was hers and Naruto's.

"We should get him to his mother. Come on. Naruto's probably outside somewhere. We're having a hard time finding him because he's sleeping. We can't hear him yelling or that loud laugh of his, that's all." Neji said with a smile and prayed it was true.

Hinata nodded and hurried towards the stairwell. She would have preferred the window but it might scare the baby and he was just starting to calm down some being close to her breast and the beat of her heart.

They turned over the babies and began searching for Naruto. Most of the patients were outside and far away from the hospital. The other Chunins had arrived and joined in the search. Iruka was talking to the staff but as of yet neither Naruto or Takeshi could be found.

Tsunade, Jiraiya and Lord Hiashi exited the hospital and moved out into the street. She waited as the chatter calmed and stopped. "The danger has passed. I'm sorry for any trauma this event has caused. The fire is out and was contained to one small area. The damage was minimal and poses no threat to you or the building itself. We'll be moving you back into the hospital in an hour or so. I ask for patience through this process."

Off to one side a large group of ninja were gathered. Ibiki stood at the front. Tsunade went to them. "Report."

"So far no one has seen them. The scents were hard to follow once they entered the village but it appears that they did at some point visit the hospital. All the gates are closed and guarded. None of the lookouts have seen any movement in the forest. Either they got what they wanted and are long gone or they're holed up somewhere in the village." Ibiki looked at the patients littering the street, the only people still out besides the hospital staff and the ninjas. "Could be they're hiding in plain sight. Any idea why they attacked the hospital specifically? Anything missing?"

Tsunade had only done a cursory search but nothing had been tampered with. None of the valuable medicines or manuals had been taken. "No I don't believe so." A lot of manpower was concentrated here. "Recheck the hospital files, important documents and medicines then send people out to check all the other strategic and important places in the village." Tsunade saw Shizune and Iruka talking quietly and frowned. The two of them seemed upset and then there was Hinata with worry written all over her face and the rest of her friends scowling. As the group came her way she wavered for a moment already aware of what they were about to say.

"Tsunade…Tsunade he's gone. They're both gone. Somebody's kidnapped our son!"

The sun was getting lower and lower in the sky as the two men ran with their burdens draped over their backs. They were beyond the mountains now having made good time but still too damn close to the Hidden Leaf.

"Don't you think we should dope them up soon? I heard that they'll wake up sometime tomorrow. These kids recuperate fast." A low voice said. The owner of that voice was just shy of six feet and he carried the taller Takeshi on his back. "There's no way we can hold them once they wake up." He shivered slightly in awe. As a ninja, he'd seen many powerful jutsu but the chakra inside these two overshadowed all of the rest.

"Soon. I don't want to stop just yet. We need more distance between us and them. Our little diversion seems to have worked out well since no one's on our tail. It'll take us days to get out of the Land of Fire especially carrying theses two so it's important we cover as much land as possible now. We'll stop around midnight for an hour to rest and take care of these boys." This ninja had deep brown eyes and was shorter than his comrade. He shifted Naruto a bit and sped up his pace.

As specialists in stealing jutsu, Toki wished he could emulate Naruto's power but he didn't know how to extract chakra or he'd forget about handing Naruto over to the Akatsuki. As it was he hoped his special genjutsu would allow him to control the one Suki carried. How simple their lives would become with Takeshi to fight all their battles for them but if that didn't happen – the highest bidder could have the boy. Some ninjas and hidden villages would love to have their very own Jinchuriki. After all they like the Akatsuki could probably take the phoenix out of him or find some way to use him. That's all Jinchuriki were good for anyway, to be used as weapons.

"Come on – we've got hours to go before we can stop!" His tone was urgent as he nimbly hopped over a boulder then landed like a cat and kept on running. His partner followed. Every few miles he would turn and be sure to cover any tracks they'd made using a form of the Hiding Camouflage Technique and earth jutsu. They weren't invisible but their scent was reduced and any tracks removed.

Neji, Shino, Kiba and Akamaru were sent out to search for signs of Naruto. Each and every patient was checked to be sure they were who they were supposed to be. The Hokage building and residence was searched to see if anything was missing. The academy, the police station, the master builder's home and office as well as storage buildings containing the history of the village were all searched. Nothing was missing but one teenager and one young man plus some powerful sedatives.

Hinata sat quietly on top of the Fourth Hokage's head. This sitting and waiting was driving her insane. She'd come here to be closer to Naruto and to keep an eye out for her brother. Mama Tsunade had forbid anyone from going out until they had something concrete to go on. The enemy was obviously skilled and she didn't want her forces thinned out following false trails. When Neji's group found something – then they would go.

"Naruto…" She wanted to blame him. If he hadn't acted out then these people would have never have seen his power and taken him from her but she couldn't. Hinata knew she could just as easily blame herself for leaving him alone and not being there to prevent this but that was just as stupid. Rising she paced in the encroaching darkness. "Where are you baby? Come on Naruto, tell me where you are! Nine-Tailed Fox, please continue to keep him safe!" As great as her gift was, she wished for the power to see him wherever he was.

A cloud hid the stars and she thought back to that night with him up here. Naruto had stripped and stood naked in the rain. It had stormed around him and he'd smiled. His joy had returned to him that night. Naruto had stopped living for the day – their future had started then. Here on the image of the man who'd changed his life, his life had changed again but now it included her. Though Hinata was vividly remembering that night, her birthright had been continuously active. She saw Neji hurrying back towards the village. Hinata jumped.

"This is really fucked up. Just Fucked!" Sasuke paced angrily outside the Hokage's building. "Why? Why can't he get a moment of freaking normalcy? Something's always happening!"

There were several nods to his words. It was true, lately Naruto's life had been big upset after another. The Hokage and Iruka-sensei were up in her office. They'd requested that they be alone as they waited. Lady Tsunade had gone white when she learned Naruto was missing. She'd maintained her calm before her shinobi but this private time with Iruka more than likely gave her and him time to not only break down but also to prepare for the rescue and annihilation of those who dared take their son.

"Neji's back!" Hinata yelled as she ran to meet them, her hair streaming in the breeze she made. She didn't stop but raced inside the building to wait on her brother's news. "Mama! Neji's back!" Hinata burst into the office.

Tsunade felt her heart catch to hear the name mama. She was happy hearing it come from Hinata but right now she wanted to hear it coming from a masculine voice. Tsunade got off the couch where she'd been sitting underneath Iruka's arm and moved to stand behind her desk as the rest of Naruto's friends entered the office. A few minutes of tense silence then Neji entered a little breathless.

"They made good time. Almost a day ahead of us." Neji's voice sounded loud in the tense atmosphere. "They're very good my lady leaving little to no tracks. If it hadn't been for Akamaru's keen nose…" Neji shook his head. "Shino sent out some bugs – they'll find him. Those three are still tracking them. We should go now because they're already beyond the mountains headed towards the border."

Tsunade nodded. "You're going of course." She said to Iruka and got a sharp nod from him. "And all of you. Shizune…"

"I won't make any mistakes this time. I swear on my life!" Shizune exclaimed. She'd already changed into her ninja gear.

"Thank you." Tsunade said and rounded the desk. "You'll need some backup in case there are more than two of them." She took Iruka's hand then Hinata's as she walked out of the office. Her ninjas were gathered at the academy – those not guarding the village or still checking the village.

When she stepped out into the night, she stopped. "Thank you." They too had been watching for Neji and came to her first. "Kiba and Shino are still tracking them. You'll have to move quickly to catch up to them. I assume you're all volunteering?" It was the parents of the Chunins plus all of their sensei. "Wow this is quite a force but as you know I can't send all of you." Tsunade blinked and gave them a small smile. "We've been here before. I hope this is the last time." She sighed for she didn't believe it. As much as she wanted him home, someone else wanted him too – wanted him dead.

"Kakashi, you and Iruka are in charge." As she spoke Jiraiya showed up to stand at Kakashi's side. Tsunade nodded – he would go as well. "Jonins support your teams. Tsume please lend your and Kuromaru's tracking skills to your son's. Shibi you as well. And Choza." Tsunade said as the large man added himself to the ranks. He was out to prove that he really did mean what he said the day before.

Hinata kissed her father and Lady Tsunade. "Well what the hell are you people waiting for?! LET'S GO!" The young woman spared none of them a second glance but took off at a run.

Iruka got out a short laugh. "I think Hinata's in charge. Book it people!" He said and they all fell in behind him.

"What are you doing?" Shikamaru asked as a body ran beside him.

"Helping. Gaara would never forgive me if I didn't help save the man who changed his life." Temari said. "Besides, with your skills, you need someone at your back!" She grinned at him.

Shikamaru blinked then smiled slightly. "Sure, I'll let you watch my back. Hope you like what you see!" Then, "Thanks Temari, Hinata and Naruto will appreciate too."

Temari blushed and nodded. "I've always liked your ass Shikamaru." She said softly then laughed when he lost his footing. "We'd better focus on the mission!" Her hand steadied him and they shared a look before continuing.

Not so loud my lady! …Yes I love your singing but…I'm so tired… Takeshi told the phoenix but frowned for the song wasn't her normal greeting but loud and harsh. Sorry I'm not strong enough…you wanted to continue the fight…my body hurts…and I'm so uncomfortable…are we still in the forest?

Wake up Takeshi! You need to wake up. Something has happened. You and Naruto have been kidnapped!

What! I…I can't open my eyes! What's wrong? Phoenix!

Hush now and listen to me. I was resting myself and only woke a little while ago when a foreign substance entered your body. I've been trying to wake you for a couple of hours now. It was some type of drug to keep you under but I'm stronger than some medicine! It will be out of your system soon. I know you are tired my human child but you must try to save yourself. Even weakened you should be able to escape these men!

What about Naruto? Can you tell if he's okay? The fox?

I just know that he is near and like you unconscious. Takeshi, if you can get away, get to Konoha, they will come – Naruto's friends will rescue him. Please my son, try and awake up!

I'm trying my lady, I'm trying. Takeshi told her and focused on trying to open his eyes or moving some part of his body. He tried to sense his surroundings. At the moment he was still and lying on the ground. He could smell earth and he was cold. Nighttime. Is it the same day? It was a magnificent battle but now it seemed minor in comparison to their situation. Naruto! Fox! If I can, I'll take you with me – we'll go together. Wake up my friends!

The sun rose lighting their steps. Those steps were a bit slower now but they kept moving. The drugs stolen from the hospital had been given to the boys and both were dead weights on their captors' backs.

"Stay in the trees out of sight. We need to find a place to hide for a couple of hours, get some decent rest. Keep a sharp eye out!" Toki said.

Suki had very sharp eyes almost as good as an eagle's. Trusting in his ability, Suki didn't watch where he was going but looked for a place to hide. They could use earth style jutsu but it would be better to find a natural type of setting without changing the landscape and possibly calling attention to themselves. An hour or more went by before he saw something. "Northeast, two miles."

Toki immediately changed direction. The trees grew denser and it was hard to move through them so they dropped to the ground and wove their way to the perfect little nest – so to speak. Putting Naruto down, Toki checked to be sure no animals were currently making this their home.

It was like a tepee made out trees. A storm or something had knocked together several trees. The space inside would be just big enough for the four of them. Toki swept it out for it was full of feces from many animals and bones. Suki put Takeshi down then gathered even more tree limbs with lots of leaves on them. They wouldn't even need to use genjutsu to camouflage it. It was perfect. He set up several alarms and traps and within thirty minutes they were hidden out of sight and sleeping the morning away.

Naruto heard deep breathing and at first thought it was coming from himself but he yawned and realized the source was someone else. Of course Hinata came to mind but no, it wasn't her either. He lay thinking about who it was and gradually his memories of the last day came back to him.

Gamabunta and Jiraiya, Chunin scroll, adoption and that bitch Ino. Man she almost succeeded in breaking us up! But the fox…thank God for him. Then…yeah that that talk with my parents…he, he, he parents. They're truly mine now – legally and no one can take them from me! He smiled with satisfaction. And finally letting off some steam. Damn, I really let loose didn't I? Naruto could feel the soreness and tightness in his muscles. Takeshi! Ah, man – I hope he's okay. I went way overboard.

YOU DID. SO YOU FINALLY DECIDED TO WAKE UP?

Nine-Tailed Fox! It's you! Naruto finally recognized the deep breathing and opened his eyes. He blinked at the light. Huh? As his eyes adjusted to the light, Naruto's mouth dropped open in shock. What happened?

YOU SHOULD KNOW. THIS IS NOT MY DOING CHILD. WITHIN THE LAST DAY – THIS HAPPENED. His voice was neutral, neither full of hate and anger nor genial and lenient.

It was still a room but there appeared to be a skylight in the ceiling letting in bright light. There was grass in certain places, where Naruto lay and more behind the gigantic cage doors. Inside the cage there appeared to be many trees and a running stream. He still couldn't fully see the fox because of the multitude of leaves but those red eyes looked out at him as always. I did this? But how…? Naruto sat up and grabbed his ankles. He faced the fox. Do you like it?

…IT WILL…IT WILL DO.

Naruto grinned so hard his eyes disappeared. He rocked and hummed to himself. He had no idea how he changed this place but the fox liked it and it was a place he himself wouldn't mind visiting in the future when he and the fox talked.

STUPID HUMAN. MAYBE THIS WILL WIPE THAT SMILE OFF YOUR FACE – WE HAVE BEEN KIDNAPPED.

He did stop grinning and rocking. Naruto blinked. And?

AND? YOU HAVE BEEN TAKEN FROM YOUR HOME POSSIBLY TO BE KILLED AND ALL YOU HAVE TO SAY IS AND?! YOUR SMALL BRAINS MUST HAVE BEEN ADDLED DURING THAT FIGHT! THE PHOENIX HAS ALREADY AWOKEN HER PET – THEY PLOT THEIR ESCAPE.

His mouth opened wide and those blue eyes peeped at the fox. Takeshi got kidnapped too?! Uh-oh, this is my fault. If all that crap inside me hadn't been itching to get out – Takeshi's secret would never have been found out. Hey! How do you know what's going on with them? Naruto got up on his knees and crawled forward a bit.

I CAN HEAR HER INFERNAL SINGING! SHE STARTED THE MOMENT YOU TWO WERE DRUGGED. I ASSUME THAT SINCE SHE STARTED SINGING THEN THAT'S WHAT THEY WERE DOING. MORE THAN LIKELY HE IS ABOUT TO REGAIN CONCOUINESS – UNLIKE YOU!

You can hear her sing? Why can't I hear it too? I wanna hear it! Takeshi said it's like paradise or something! Is it really beautiful? Naruto strained his ears to hear the phoenix's song. Excitement was written all over his face.

Large red eyes squinted at Naruto. YOU REALLY ARE STUPID AREN'T YOU? I CAN'T BELIEVE I'M STUCK INSIDE YOU!

Naruto laughed and laughed. He fell over laughing. This went on for a few minutes before he rolled over on his stomach, wiped his eyes and smiled gently at the fox. You know she's coming don't you? Hinata is coming for us. She loves us so much…we're going to be fine. He lay with his face cupped in his hands. The minute we went missing the people who took us were doomed. Hinata, Mama, Dad, Sasuke, ha even Shikamaru – they're out for blood now. Naruto blinked. I was stupid before…I doubted them and I was scared of losing them, of loving them. Now another smile. But not anymore. They'll save us or we'll save ourselves. The fact that I woke up here means you're probably working to rid my body of the drugs so that I'll wake up for real. Like what the phoenix is doing for Takeshi. You want to help me. You want to give this life a chance. I'd like to think it was something I said but I bet it was Hinata that made the difference. You feel her love too don't you?

The fox said nothing, just blinked. THEY'LL DRUG YOU AGAIN. YOU'RE A LONG WAY FROM KONOHA. YOU COULD MEET UP WITH YOUR WORST ENEMY BEFORE HELP ARRIVES.

Naruto nodded. The fox wasn't going to answer him but that was okay. They both knew where the other stood. They were in this together; he could feel it even if the fox wouldn't say the words. Understood. Guess I'll go see if I can wake up then. I don't know how much good it will do though because my body is all achy. I probably won't be able to do much more than help Takeshi get away or cause a ruckus so everyone knows where we are.

He got up slowly and walked towards what now looked like the entrance to a park with a road just outside of it. Naruto turned and looked over his shoulder at the fox. Thanks. You had the perfect opportunity to take me over during that fight but you didn't. And you're right, we're probably headed for the Akatsuki and instead of letting me sleep and being taken to them – you woke me. I guess Dad would say you were being honorable. I don't know much about honor but I now know what it feels like to be cared for. Naruto turned back around smiled and bowed to the fox. Watch my back! With a laugh, Naruto ran off down the road to see if he could wake himself up.

TINY, WEAK HUMAN. WHAT DOES HE KNOW ABOUT HONOR? HMPH! The fox turned away from the bars and lay down in the fragrant grass swishing his tails.

Takeshi had woken but lay completely still for almost fifteen minutes before allowing his eyes to open ever so slightly to see his surroundings. Upon waking, he knew he was lying on his side with his arms tied behind his back and his legs bound. Thankfully his mouth and eyes were uncovered. There was a body next to his and from the scent it was Naruto. There were two other bodies, one behind him the other on the far side of Naruto. Takeshi got the impression one was very big and the other average, about his size. He smelled damp earth, heard the sounds of the forest but not water. They were far from the river which meant they were far from the Hidden Leaf Village.

The limited glimpse he allowed himself showed them to be in a dark place but it was definitely daytime for rays of light entered the enclosure. They were packed in the small place. Naruto's face was practically in his chest and man behind him had one knee pressed into the small of his back. He and Naruto were at a distinct disadvantage with their hands tied up. They had no weapons and all they had on were hospital pajamas. But he knew he could call on the phoenix's power and not be detected by anyone other than Naruto. A claw would deftly take care of his bindings. He could escape easily but…what of Naruto?

Takeshi looked down and saw vivid blond locks. It didn't appear that Naruto was awake. His breathing was steady and even. Maybe the fox wasn't helping him the way the phoenix had him. He knew he could get away but carrying Naruto would slow him down in his current condition. Naruto! Dammit I don't want to leave you behind! But if I don't – we're both dead. Damn…

Suddenly Naruto tilted back his head and looked dead at Takeshi and grinned. He winked at his friend then with no caution whatsoever lifted his head and glanced around curiously.

Takeshi blinked glad to see Naruto awake but wondered what the hell he was doing. He was going to alert their captors that he wasn't drugged anymore. He shook his head slightly and tried to tell Naruto to lay back down with his eyes.

Naruto just grinned at him then yawned loudly. "I'm hungry – when are you guys going to feed us?"

Eyes of smoke and eyes black as pitch snapped open and stared at Naruto in shock.

"I gotta pee too. So help me out!" Naruto demanded of them.

"Why are you stopping?" The young man asked as he stopped to look back at his companion. "I thought you were in a hurry. Something up?" He looked around knowing that particular look in the other's eyes.

"Yes, yes. I think we should go this way. Come!" The younger man took off away from the path that would take them to the village Hidden in the Leaves and headed deeper into the forest.

There was excitement in the air and the other man grinned. This wouldn't be a boring trip after all.

"Kiba!" Hinata called out to her teammate as he sat in a tree resting.

"Hey you guys caught up to me! You made good time." Kiba pushed back his hood and looked at his friends. "You brought too many people. It's just two of them, well so far. Akamaru's watching them. They hunkered down to sleep for a while."

"How are you doing Shino?" Shibi asked of his son.

"I'm okay Father. I've several insects ready to attack or protect Naruto and Takeshi when time comes." Shino told Iruka.

"Have they woken or can you tell?" Kakashi asked.

"No, at least not since I left Akamaru. They're still out of it. Hinata?" He asked as she dropped her head and covered her face with her hands. It looked as if she was crying because her shoulders were shaking. "He's okay – I promise!"

"Hinata…" Iruka took her shoulders in comfort but blinked in surprise when she lifted her head and laughed. "Hinata?"

"He's fine and sleeping through it all! That nut!" Hinata turned and hugged her second father. "He'll never even know he was taken! No doubt he'll be angry that he missed all the action!" She giggled.

Everyone seeing Hinata laugh, lightened the atmosphere. Before when they didn't know anything, all they could expect was the worst but now – this mess would be over in minutes!

Neji just laughed and dared to kiss Tenten's cheek in front of everybody. "Then shall I take a look?"

"By all means." Kakashi shook his head and waved a hand for Neji to go ahead. The Hyuga male only went a short distance ahead of the group and took a look around.

"There are a few traps – deadly ones. Explosives too aimed at slowing us down and reducing our numbers. Akamaru's dug himself a hole fairly close though." Neji looked further ahead then froze for a second. "Well we need to come up with a plan of attack quickly – Naruto's awake and he just woke up his kidnappers." There was an exasperated smile on his face when he looked back at his friends.

Sasuke rolled his eyes. "Takeshi?"

"Hard to tell. If he's awake, he's playing possum unlike Naruto. He's probably planning to escape." Neji said.

"No, he is definitely awake." Tsume said when her dog woofed softly at her. "He's chakra just increased."

"Okay. Asuma, you and your team, Tsume and Choza - work yourselves around behind them so they can't escape. Hurry we don't want chaos to erupt on what could be an easy rescue." Kakashi said and watched as they hurried away.

"Shino would Naruto recognize your of your insects? Use them to warn him not to do anything." Shibi told his son. "I'll help in shielding them when the time comes."

His voice held laughter as he spoke. "I don't know Father, we are talking about Naruto but I'll try." Several insects left Shino's sleeve and flew off in Naruto's direction.

Kakashi nodded. "Guy your team leads – take care of those traps. Kurenai – Hinata, I assume you'll want first blood?" He raised an eyebrow at the girl.

Hinata nodded then looked at Iruka. "I'd love it if we fought side by side Dad." She smiled at him.

"I'd be honored to." Iruka smiled back then looked to Shizune. "Please watch our backs." He said giving her his trust to do the right thing this time.

"I will." She vowed then looked at Sakura. "Watch yourself – we need ninjas with medical training."

"Of course – protect myself and help the injured. Got it!" Sakura jerked on her gloves.

One man stood off to one side silent and determined. He'd failed Naruto once, he wouldn't do it again.

"Jiraiya, join us – Naruto's family is going to save him." Iruka looked to the silent Sannin. "We do this together." He nodded when Jiraiya moved next to Hinata and cupped the girl's cheek.

Team Guy fanned out just behind Neji ready to follow his directions. Kiba had already left to join Akamaru, his nose keeping him safe. Team Kakashi were just behind Guy's.

"Naruto's waiting, let's bring him home!" Iruka said setting the Konoha shinobi in motion.

"How the fuck did you wake up?!" Toki growled at Naruto's bright face. "Shut up! In case you didn't realize it – your life is in our hands!" He jerked on Takeshi's shoulder but the long-haired kid appeared to be still sleeping. "Must have messed up the damn dosage!" He grabbed the pack at his side and rummaged inside of it.

"Damn my body hurts. Takeshi's really strong." Naruto squirmed until he was leaning up some. "You should forget about dosing me and run you know. My family will be here soon." Naruto warned and looked the men over. Just looking at them would scare anybody with any sense but he felt no fear. He might be tied up and weak but they were the ones who would lose if he called up his power.

"Jinchuriki have no family! Your village despises you and uses you simply as weapon!"

He nodded. "Yeah, they do sometimes but I don't mind. And I do have family and they're going to kick your ass if you don't get the hell out of here." Naruto spoke softly and held the slate gray eyes with his blue ones. "Just go. Leave and you'll survive this."

Takeshi wondered at Naruto's confidence. He wondered if his friend had a plan. What do you think my lady? Should we wait or take advantage of this?

…Wait Takeshi, be ready but wait.

Toki looked at Suki then back at Naruto. "You're bluffing brat and Suki will prove it." Toki jerked his head towards the opening and the big man moved to exit the small enclosure when several bugs flew in by his nose.

They flew around in a circular pattern and briefly formed the leaf sign before flying to Naruto. They swarmed over the teen then one separated from the group to land on Naruto's nose.

Naruto crossed his eyes to look at the bug then started to laugh his head off. "I'm going to learn about insects yet! Too late you bastards – you're already dead! Relax Takeshi - Konoha to the rescue!"

Takeshi opened his eyes to see several insects flying about Naruto's head and his happy smile. He looked over in time to see the big guy dash outside and at the same time an explosion went off.

"The brat's right! There's a group of ninja headed this way – over a dozen! They're disarming the traps! We need to go Toki!" The big man reached in for his pack with one hand, Naruto's ankles with the other. "They won't attack as long as we've got you!" Suki dragged Naruto out of the wooden tepee and held him upside down.

"Ouch! You're going to regret that! Just chill Takeshi and watch our friends do their stuff!" Naruto yelled out and blinked hard because of all the blood rushing to his head.

Toki glanced down at Takeshi debating on whether to grab him or not then decided to leave the boy. "I won't forget you! I know what you are!" He kicked Takeshi in the stomach for the hell of it then joined Suki outside.

Takeshi grunted and spat, "Bas-tard."

"Hold him in front of you so they can see him and let's get the fuck out of here!" Toki yelled and shouldered his pack. He looked around then headed directly behind the tepee. Just as he rounded the structure, Toki kicked at the tepee and it crumbled on top of Takeshi and some of the debris tumbled down further impeding their pursers.

Suki flipped Naruto over his shoulder ignoring the boy's groan of pain and started running. He tossed out several smoke bombs hoping to buy them some time.

Toki only got a few yards when the sounds of growling slowed him up. Because of the smoke he couldn't tell what kind of animal it was. "Trees!" They went up and jumped from limb to limb before a huge hand slapped the trees knocking them down to the forest floor. Toki's hands flew then vines grew from the ground and waved about in the air latching onto whatever was nearby. His grass style jutsu would help them out.

"Fireball Jutsu!"

"That's my brother!" Naruto gasped as fire burned away the vines but that didn't stop Toki. He just created more and Suki added his own earth style jutsu to create a wall of dirt blocking any more of Sasuke's fire.

"Fang Over Fang!" Kiba and Akamaru shattered that wall.

Suki threw out a shower of shuriken but they were thrown back at him by a strong wind from a fan. Naruto was used as a shield.

"HELLO – THAT SHIT HURTS!" He screamed as his chest and thighs were penetrated with the sharp stars.

Choji was using his large hands to try and free Takeshi when the leaves and limbs exploded and the dirty young man rose from the debris on iridescent wings. "Whoa man, you can fly? Cool!" He said with a grin but rushed to catch Takeshi when his wings failed and he dropped down. "Hey take it easy, I got ya."

"What of Naruto?" Takeshi was surprised at how tired he still was. Had he tried to escape, he wouldn't have gotten very far.

"Umm, well he's being thrown around a bit but he heals quickly. I think Hinata's about to make her move. Sasuke's making a path for her."

Sasuke, Iruka and Hinata were heading for Suki and Naruto. They were dodging shuriken and kunai.

Suki created several earth style clones to slow them down as he and Toki backed away but before they could get too far a huge dog and a wild looking woman confronted them. "Suki – combination!"

The two rogues stood back to back. Hands and fingers were a blur as huge vines again came up out of the ground attacking all of their foes. At the same time a whirlwind made of earth blasted out blinding and pelting Naruto's friends.

Hinata was able to shield the three of them while Shikamaru and Asuma huddled behind Temari's fan. The others were left to fight off the vines and be pounded upon by the swirling earth.

Jiraiya summoned a toad for protection and from behind him formed the Rasengan. Kakashi turned around and lifted his headband. In the palm of one hand he held his chakra. Neji performed his rotation and was able to send some of the earth flying back at Toki and Suki. Seeing a temporary opening, Temari also sent the dirt flying back and cut the vines holding them in place. The Rasengan followed Temari's cutting wind. Shino having been protected by his father's bugs sent his own in to try and protect Naruto. Shikamaru sent a shadow to capture Toki and break his control.

Naruto's once white pajamas were covered in blood and dirt. There were leaves and sticks in his hair and he was still hanging upside down. He was being rescued but it was costing him.

"Argh! Suki I can't move!" Toki cried. "Kill him! If we can't have him then kill him!" Never had they thought a Jinchuriki would be fought so hard for. If only they'd known…

"Die!" Kakashi said as he ran in and sent his hand into Toki's chest ending the man's life. Before he could grab Naruto, more earth impeded him for Suki and Naruto were disappearing into the ground.

"Naruto!" Hinata cried as she dropped her shield. Her Byakugan was activated and she tracked them moving through the earth. "That way! Sakura!"

"On it!" Sakura ran in the direction Hinata pointed then smashed the earth stopping Suki cold. Choza and Choji with the hands of giants began to dig searching for the blond.

"Earth Burial!" Suki's voice could just be heard from underneath layers of dirt.

Shock flowed through them as the earth climbed their bodies threatening to suffocate them. Each and every one of them used their jutsu to free themselves but the dirt just kept coming. Suki must have been using every last ounce of his chakra to control the loose earth.

"NO! NO YOU WON'T KEEP US APART!" Hinata screamed gaining all of their attention. "NARUTOOOOO!" She used her Eight Trigrams Sixty-Four Palms and spun so fast that she created a hole in the ground to free herself. With a glare she charged Suki who had risen from the ground but Naruto's head was buried, his body leaning against his captor.

"That's very good. I am impressed. It's a good imitation of my technique but nothing beats the original." Gaara spoke in that soft way of his. Using his sand he took control of the earth in front of Hinata, laying down a path for her. As Suki's earth continued to cover the Konoha shinobi, his sand did the same to Suki.

Jiraiya was about to summon the Toad Mouth bind as Gaara appeared but he paused waiting to see what the Kazekage would do. Kakashi freed himself easily as the sand compacted about Suki hard enough to make the man's eyes and tongue swell and bulge out. He helped free Iruka who with rage immediately threw a kunai into Suki's eye. The man gasped then disappeared beneath the sand.

"Sand Coffin!" Gaara stated and the sand flew out in every direction showering Hinata and Naruto with bloody bits of sand.

Hinata reached Naruto just as Suki was destroyed. His body started to fall over but she caught him and gently lay him down on the littered ground. Frantically Hinata dug his head out of the dirt then quickly cleared his mouth and nose. "Breathe baby breathe from me!" She whispered and gave him some of her air.

Naruto gasped as his lungs refilled. There were people all around him but he couldn't tell who was who. Mouth full of dirt, bloody and worn completely out he whispered. "…Told'em…you come…family…my…family…but you…took…too damn…long…" He passed out and after a moment with everyone looking at each other in shock and relief, they laughed. It was just like Naruto to complain about how they'd saved him.