Chapter 14: The Hearing
Ino and Tenten sat at opposite ends with Shikamaru in the middle. They sat facing a large table filled with officials from both the Sand and Konoha. Each of them told their sides of the story, and then the questions began. It went on this was for a half an hour when the question that everyone wanted answered was asked.
"Was this a mission handed to you by the Hokage or any other Konoha officials?"
Ino blushed and answered, "no, this was not an official order and no one knew about it but Tenten and I."
Temari looked at her and asked, " Then why did you say 'mission accomplished' when I burst through the door?"
"It was a mission, my own personal mission. It was derived from jealousy and lack of self-esteem. I regret it deeply and to everyone involved, I'm truly and deeply sorry. I don't deserve forgiveness, but I'm sorry all the same."
Tsunade leaned forward. "Ino, Tenten, what you have done is not only disrespectful but disgraceful. You are not only a disgrace to your family but to Konoha and the way of the ninja."
Gaara spoke up, " Now Tsunade don't be so harsh. You were young once too."
Tsunade smiles, "quite right. Now with the legality issue, the action taken by these two were illegal and require punishment. Shikamaru, would you like to press charges?"
"No," said Shikamaru quick and decisively.
"Ok then, we will meet privately and discuss everything," said Tsunade. "You're all dismissed for one hour."