Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto, but I'm working on it...

Thanks so much for all the concern, and awesome comments. I'm so touched. Just to clear things up I had a Bronchospasm. It is similar to an asthma attack, only mine was an allergic reaction to something. I've never had one before, so it was kinda scary. But all is good now. So thanks again for the support, and I hope you like this chapter.

Chapter 6: market place

thoughts/inner Sakura

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The large wooden gate slowly creaked shut. A loud thud echoed through the camp as a heavy board was place between the gates as a barrier. Sakura let out a deep breath, now it was time to begin. Looking at her gray surroundings she found herself wondering if this was the right place. Everything was quiet and empty, and oddly foggy. It was almost seemed deserted. As if reading her mind, suddenly the fog dispersed to reveal a festival of life and sounds. Stands and vendors stood at every corner, calling out to those who passed by to sample their product.

An older man in bright green robes jumped out in front of them. "Get your sweet bread here. Cakes and pies, the finest you've ever tasted." Kakashi simply waved his hand dismissively at the man and he stepped away to entice the next customer.

"Sexy lingerie for the lady, Sir" A middle aged woman winked as she thrust a scarlet colored, barely there, lacy number at Kakashi. Again Kakashi acted as if he barely noticed the vendor and dismissed her with a simple nod. Secretly, he was wondering what Sakura would have looked like in the garment.

As they continued down the street Sakura realized it was much bigger than she expected. It was an expansive labyrinth of streets, tents and buildings. She saw stands offering everything imaginable. Finley woven cloth in every color, delicious foods, fine jewelry, expensive weapons and several shops offering bondage accessories. She shuddered slightly as she passed by the last shops, grateful that they passed by before the patron could approach them. As she continued scanning the area she suddenly realized, she didn't see any slaves. Her eyes searched the street. All she could see was more shops.

Keeping her gaze down and her voice low, she addressed Kakashi. "I don't see any slaves."

In response to her question Kakashi quickly turned the corner bringing them face to face with the heart of the slave distract. The change in scenery was undeniable. The street was packed with people, both slaves and buyers. There were no vendors offering goods or other attractions, only sales of the flesh. The slaves were sectioned off into groups, based on skill, trade, and well... other talents. To her left she saw a group of large men and strong women. They were to be sold for labor, or some other hard work. Each wore clothing that was little more than rags, and their faces were covered with the obvious signs of a rough life. Beside them was a platform, they each took turns standing before the crowd, as bids were called out, and sales were made.

Beside them was a similar structure, these soon to be slaves were more delicate and even included some children. The information sign before them said they were trained in household services. Their talents ranging from cooks, to maids to servers. They would most likely end up in service to a lord with a vast estate. They stood in a line as would be buyers inspected the 'merchandise'. They were poked and pinched, the trade master opened their mouths so their teeth could be inspected, and tilted their heads to show they were free of lice. More sales were made and newly purchased slaves were carried away to join their new master.

All around them similar transactions took place, people were inspected, bids were made, and the next slave would take the stage. As they walked down the crowded street, Sakura kept close to Kakashi, with this many people around it would be easy for her to become separated and hopelessly lost. Sakura was lost in thought, and almost bumped into Kakashi's back when he stopped suddenly. She looked up to the platform they had stopped at. It was the largest, and by far the most crowded. The crowd was made up entirely of men, they were packed together so tightly they blocked the stage from view.

Struggling, Kakashi and Sakura finally pushed their way through the crowd to the front of the stage. There before them was a group of very pretty, young women, all dressed in skin tight, short, revealing kimonos. Their faces were heavily powdered, and dark red, lipstick adorned their lips. They stood on a high platform that gave everyone below them a proper look up their skirts. In front of them a line formed, allowing anyone interested to handle the 'goods' before purchasing. Dozens of hands groped the silent girls. Feeling their breasts, ass and thighs. Thats just disgusting! How could anyone be so perverse? And those poor girls. Sakura forced herself to look away, trying to control the rage building inside her.

Unfortunately, she must have been standing too close to the stage, as a strong hand reached around her from behind and began to fondle her breast while the other moved down and grabbed her ass. Before she could control herself she spun around to face her molester with murder in her eyes. Her fists clinched tight at her side. The man before her was middle aged with shoulder length black hair, and deep brown eyes. His strong features and well chiseled jaw made him very handsome. His cloths were expensive, and a well made katana hung at his waist.

He laughed as he spoke " A fiery one. Good. I like them feisty." His laughter soon faded and was replaced by a sinister expression. He grabbed Sakura by her hair and pulled her close to him, whispering in her ear " I will have you, cherry blossom." He tightened his grip on her, then faced the stage, "I'll give ten thousand for this one." Sakura shuddered, was she really about to be sold?

Suddenly a familiar hand rested on her shoulder, and Kakashi's voice filled her mind and heart as her savior. "She's not for sale. She belongs to me." Quickly he slipped between them pushing Sakura behind him in a protective manner.

The stranger cocked a curious eyebrow. " I will make it worth your while. Twenty thousand." Sakura's jaw dropped in shock, was he really still trying to buy her?

Kakashi just shook his head. " I said she's not for sale." He turned around a motioned for Sakura to move along.

Anger twitched on the dark haired man's face. He placed his hand suggestively on his weapon before shouting " Fifty thousand!! Now, I'm being more than reasonable." He moved forward to grab Sakura's arm. Kakashi grabbed his hand in a death lock, squeezing it tightly, pain etched across the assailants face.

Kakashi glared at him, their eyes level. "I already said no." He continued to twist and squeeze his arm. "As you can see, I'm quiet attached to her, so I suggest you do your bidding else where."

Quickly, two guards moved through the crowd to break the disturbance. Kakashi released the strangers arm and turned to walk away.

"This isn't over! I always get what I want" Kakashi ignored the man's final rant and continued to make his way from the crowd.

He looked down at Sakura and saw that she was clearly shaken up. He placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, and together they moved down the street. At the end of the road were several hotels, and restaurants. Kakashi lead Sakura into the nearest lodging and they waited at the counter to be checked in. The building was nice, not especially large, but everything was clean and in good condition. A young women greeted them. "How can I help you?" She smiled and waited for a response.

Kakashi reached into his robe and pulled out a money purse. "I'd like to get a room, please."

"Of course. Here you go. Room number twelve." She nodded and handed Kakashi a room key on a satin ribbon. " Is there anything else?"

"Actually there is" Kakashi lowered his voice as he accepted the key. "Could you tell me where they are debuting the 'special' merchandise today?"

The woman smiled brightly at Kakashi's handsome face. " There is a special tent set up two streets over. Viewing starts at 5pm, and the bidding will be in two days."

"Thank you" Kakashi bent over and kissed the girls hand causing her to blush, and Sakura to let out a silent scoff.

What is he doing, flirting with her like that. Can't he remember we're on a mission! He can be such a perv!

Your just mad because it isn't you

Oh, shut up. I don't have time for you

Fine, be that way!

She didn't even notice they had began walking down a narrow hall, until he stopped and this time she did run into him. She looked up and saw they were in front of room number 12. Kakashi slid the key into the lock and entered the room. It was quiet and actually quiet large. Scented candles burned on the dresser filling the room with the smell of warm vanilla. Sakura closed the door behind her, and they quickly searched the room checking for listening devises. Kakashi gave the all clear sign, and Sakura jumped at him keeping her voice low.

"Just what was that about back there? Did you forget were on a mission, not a dating retreat." Her finger was waving dangerously close to his face.

Kakashi put his hands up defensively. " I was just keeping my character. If I didn't know any better, I'd say you were jealous." He winked at her and Sakura's face instantly lit a bright red.

" I was not! I was merely concerned for the feelings of the poor girl, whose heart you were playing with...hmpf." She turned and stormed towards the bed. She sat on the silky sheets and let her eyes take in the room. There was the door they came in, and a door to the right that lead to the bathroom. A large wooden dresser sat in the corner with a plane silver mirror hanging above it. At the opposite wall was a large window covered by thick red drapes. A big arm chair sat in front of the window and there was a small end table with a silver lamp. Sakura ran her fingers over the soft fabric and looked down to see that the bedding was also red. At the headboard were several odd leather straps. Sakura wondered what those were for.

"Kakashi?" Sakura motioned to the straps, "What are..." Her voice trailed off. Her face was stricken with horror at a sudden thought. There is only one bed!...That means...We have to share!

Sudden laughter filled the room. "Don't worry Sakura, I don't hog the covers."

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So what do you think. That guy seems like trouble. And only one bed...Hope you liked it. Keep reading and reviewing )