An: Thank you for all the reviews. They are always appreciated. Your humble author S.o.t.A

Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto and I'm doing this for fun not profit.

Chapter 23: Passing the Torch

Running at full speed Naruto, Tsunade, and Shizune tried to return to the Crescent Cliffs Village while traversing the wide open terrain. After exiting the base they had climbed the cliff face so as not to be trapped in the canyon should the Sound forces pursue. Unfortunately, since the area was devoid of any forests they had to run out in the open. The only good thing about that was it meant that if the enemy could see them they should be able to see the enemy in return. But as was often the case, things didn't always work out the way they would expect them to as Kabuto and the Sound Chunin appeared in front of them from an underground passage.

As the three came to a halt Tsunade said, "Figures, I should have known a snake like Orochimaru would have tunnels dug all over the area."

"True," Kabuto said not showing any sign of fear at the prospect of facing a Sannin, "But luckily for us you didn't. Although I was afraid that you would simply head back to Konoha, but fortunately you are too much of a healer to simply let people suffer by abandoning them to a disease in order to save yourself."

Glaring at the confident Sound Medic she said, "Do you honestly think you are a match for me?"

Pushing up his glasses Kabuto replied arrogantly, "I admit to feeling a small amount of fear at the idea of facing a Sannin. However, let us be realistic. You are hardly worthy of that title anymore, are you?"

"I'll show you what happens when you underestimate a Sannin," Tsunade said charging Kabuto. Jumping in the air she delivered an axe kick to where the smirking Kabuto was standing. Although the attack missed the giant crater it created caused Kabuto and the Sound Chunin to separate. Tsunade pressed her attack on Kabuto while Shizune and Naruto prevented the Chunin from joining back-up.

Cutting Takeo off as he tried to rejoin with his teammates, Naruto said, "I've been waiting for a rematch with you."

"I not sure how you survived my jutsu…," Takeo began to say his mechanical voice tinged with his displeasure.

But he was cut off by Naruto who said, "Simple, I'm better then you," and then quickly drawing his ninjato sent a Wind Cutter at Takeo. The sound chunin managed to generate his sound shield in front of him blocking his attack. As his jutsu was blocked Naruto thought, "Aw man, I need to come up with a jutsu like that or maybe Hinata's rotation."

Dropping his arms as he ended his jutsu Takeo said, "Pathetic."

"Don't worry," Naruto said grinning, "I'm just getting warmed up."

Shizune found herself facing the remaining two Chunin as she jumped away from the strings that appeared from Mi's sleeves. As she landed Mi said to her, "Why don't you just give up? I promise it will only hurt for a moment."

"Sorry," Shizune said while she reassumed her stance, "I've had just about enough of being man-handled by the men of Sound."

Her right eye twitching Mi said, "I'm a woman."

Surprised by that revelation Shizune said, "Really!?" This caused the Sound Chunin, to scream in fury, while sending her strings at the Leaf Jounin who easily avoided them. But Mi did manage to herd her towards her fellow chunin. Once Shizune was in range Hibiki attempted to engage her in combat but proved no match for her in a hand to hand fight being knocked away by a palm strike to the chin. Before she could capitalize, however Shizune had to break-off her follow up attack as Mi once again tried to wrap her up in her string jutsu.

Taking up a defensive stance in front of her dazed teammate Mi said voice dripping with scorn, "You should know better than to try and fight a jounin one on one in a fist fight you fool."

Spitting out the blood from his split lip Hibiki said, "And you should know that wearing a dress doesn't make you look like a woman. So stuff it and let's just finish this bitch off." Removing the patch over his Bastard eye he concentrated his eye's power on Shizune's chest.

Shizune was caught by surprise as Hibiki removed his eye patch to reveal an eye she found vaguely similar to the Sharingan, but long hours training with Tsunade taught her how to avoid attacks. That was why as soon as she felt a heating sensation start on her chest she was already moving, so instead of her whole body being engulfed in flames only the right sleeve of her kimono caught fire. Able to pat it out as she ran trying to stay ahead of the flames that were following her she waited for the jutsu to end. Eventually the strain became too much for Hibiki, who brought his hand up to rub his eye forcing him to end the jutsu. Seeing her chance Shizune took a deep breath before breathing a large cloud of poison towards the two chunin.

The two sound chunin separated each taking a path around the cloud looking for Shizune unaware that she was immune to its affects and had simple charged into it. Hibiki noticed that something was moving towards him from within the noxious gas so jumping back prepared to let Shizune have it with his eye as soon as she emerged. Just before exiting the cloud she jumped but Hibiki was ready for her. However he didn't get a good look as to what he set aflame until Shizune who had removed her kimono and thrown it in front of her appeared through the flaming clothing. Landing in front of the surprised young man she reached forward using her medical ninjutsu to pluck out his eye.

Stumbling backwards while screaming, "You bitch…I'll fucking kill you." His life ended as Shizune channeled her medical ninjutsu into her right hand extending it like a medium sized blade and passed it over Hibiki's throat. Although his head was still attached everything in his neck that the blade had touched had been severed which became apparent as the blood with nowhere to go began leaking out of his mouth, nose, ears, and eyes.

The cloud thinned enough so that Mi could see the silhouette of Hibiki fall. When the last of the poison faded it revealed Shizune standing over Hibiki's corpse wearing nothing but a pair of form fitting black shorts and her chest bindings. Turning to her remaining opponent Shizune dropped Hibiki's eye and charged hoping to catch Mi with her enhanced chakra scalpel but Mi overcame her shock at the death of her teammate enough to avoid the attack. Feeling the strain Shizune canceled her jutsu and planned her next move.

Naruto as he dodged another blast from Takeo felt he should send a thank you note to whoever trained the shinobi of Sound, for making them so over reliant on whatever jutsu they had mastered. While Takeo's abilities were impressive the more he used them the more he exposed his vulnerabilities. Much like Zaku he was primarily a long range fighter and was doing everything in his power to keep Naruto from getting close. While Naruto was at a disadvantage in long range combat especially since his jutsus that he could use from a distance had proven less than effective he had another ace up his sleeve. He had a lot more stamina which was beginning to come into play as he noticed that the time between blasts was getting longer and longer.

Avoiding another blast that tore a path along the earth as it came at him, Naruto decided to make his move. Running at Takeo while counting down how much time figured he had until the sound chunin's next attack. Reaching him just as he reached zero, Naruto was pleasantly surprised when Takeo was forced to evade his sword swipe, although he did manage to catch the cable that ran along Takeo's right arm. Discarding the amplification pad it connected to, Takeo pointed his remaining pad at Naruto attempting to blast him, but was beaten to the punch by an Air Bullet launched by the blonde that caught him in the chest.

Sent flying Takeo landed hard coughing up blood and then rolled to the side as he felt a shadow above him barely avoiding Naruto's blade as it bit into the earth. Rolling to his feet Takeo brought his remaining Amplifier Pad up aiming at Naruto and smirking said, "Got you. BLAST."

Naruto responded with a Wind Cutter which upon hitting the approaching Sound wave resulted in an explosion that sent boy boys flying. Naruto landed on the flat of his back dropping his sword before rolling onto his feet and then charged at Takeo. Seeing an opportunity and wanting to put his new jutsu to the test pulled his hand back beginning to concentrate his chakra into it. The sound chunin just making it to his knees saw Naruto coming at him with a swirling mass of chakra in his hand raised his own hand forming his Sound shield. Naruto undeterred smashed the swirling chakra into it screaming the jutsu's name, "Rasengan."

As the two jutsu clashed Naruto could immediately see the reason why the third step was necessary as his jutsu easily sustained itself against the barrier. Apparently Takeo's sound shield was meant to stop short powerful jutsus not something along the lines of Rasengan. Feeling the shield give way Naruto jammed the jutsu into Takeo's gut and watched amazed as it sent Takeo flying until he flew off the cliff and out of sight. Looking at his hand in amazement at the power of the Rasengan, Naruto said, "Best Jutsu Ever."

Looking around the battle field he could see that Shizune was fighting against the manly looking woman with the other one looking like he was finished. He was about to go help Shizune when an explosion went off in the distance. Figuring that was where Tsunade was fighting at he decided that she probably needed his help more than Shizune so took off in that direction.

Tsunade was breathing hard as she stood in the crater she had just created, she hated to admit it but Kabuto was a lot better than she had thought. Thus far he had only been avoiding her attacks and she had the distinct impression that he was toying with her. Getting fed she said, "What's a matter you afraid to mix it up?"

Sneering at the female Sannin, he said, "I was just hoping there was more to you than this. One of the legendary Sannin and you fight like a drunken brawler. It sickens me that they would even utter your name in the same sentence as Lord Orochimaru's. I think it's time I show you your place."

Running through several hand-signs his hands began to glow, showing Tsunade that he was proficient in medical ninjutsu. Charging at the Sound-nin she threw several punches all of which he expertly dodged or blocked, before throwing one of his own, which she barely avoided. Jumping away to create some distance. She watched Kabuto warily she began to sweat a little as she thought, "Damn, this kid is something else. I wouldn't be surprised if Orochimaru experiments are the reason this kid is so strong for his age."

Noticing Tsunade's hesitation Kabuto said, "Truly the name of Sannin weeps so long as you remain alive. I think I'll kill you to remove the stain your existence brings to that name."

"Better than you have tried," Tsunade replied angrily.

"Perhaps, but I'm willing to bet you were a different woman then to."

Tired of Kabuto's taunting Tsunade charged at him throwing another punch. But, Kabuto proved to be too fast, easily avoiding it before striking at her in turn. Tsunade managed to avoid the worst of the hit taking it on the left shoulder but felt it as muscle and tendons were sliced. She tried to create some distance but Kabuto wouldn't allow it, keeping close and hitting her in both legs causing the Sanin to fall to her knees crying out in pain. Standing over her while sneering down at the kneeling woman he said, "This is the end for you," and then reached back intent on striking at her heart. However just as he was bring his hand down Naruto slammed into Tsunade knocking her out of the way and taking the hit in her place.

Naruto coughed up blood which landed on Tsunade's face causing the Sannin to begin shivering. Smiling weakly at the woman Naruto said, "I'm getting really tired of having to save your ass, Granny Tsunade." Turning to face the Sound-nin, Naruto said, "I've had just about as much of you sound jerks that I can stand."

Pushing his glasses up his nose Kabuto said warningly, "I would suggest that if you want to live long enough to be Hokage you step aside. That hit I landed on you has punctured your lung; you'll probably survive due to the demon inside you. But if you persist I will kill you."

"I'm tired of telling you the only way you're going to stop me is to kill me," Naruto said before stumbling towards Kabuto. The Sound medic easily avoided Naruto's attack and then pulling a kunai hit him in the back sending him flying away. Naruto tried to get back up before collapsing again due to his injuries.

Turning away from the unconscious jinchuriki, Kabuto thought, "While it would undoubtedly hurt the Akatsuki if I kill this boy. It would also bring their wraith down upon Lord Orochimaru. Therefore I think it would be best if I leave him alive for now."

Walking to Tsunade who had watched in horror he said, "Don't worry, I'll leave him alive. After all fools like him are only brave because they have yet to experience the true horrors of being a shinobi. I think I'll introduce him to them by leaving him your corpse. I suppose you should be thankful your death will probably make him give up his fool's dream of being Hokage." Chuckling he added, "He'll probably live longer."

Tsunade however felt something stir within her at hearing Kabuto's taunts. Remembering the many ways she had similarly put Naruto down for dreaming to be Hokage. Looking at the blood Naruto had coughed onto her when he had been wounded, she came to a realization. This blood wasn't something to be afraid of. It was the blood of a hero, who would one day lead the Village of Konoha to a prosperity undreamed of, she was sure of it. And he had shed it in protection of her well now it was her turn to protect him and his dream.

Standing over her Kabuto was about to deliver the fatal blow when he stopped short as Tsunade suddenly stopped shaking. Before he could react, Tsunade digging deep within herself, managed to hit Kabuto with her uninjured arm from her kneeling position sending him flying backwards. However she wasn't surprised when Kabuto began standing back up. Managing to get back to her feet she said, "You will speak about that boy with respect."

Holding his injured ribs as they began to heal Kabuto said, "Excuse me."

"I said you will speak about Naruto with respect in my presence," Tsunade growled preparing to break the seal on her forehead.

"And what makes him worthy of that," Kabuto asked snidely.

Looking at the Blonde boy with a soft smile Tsunade said with certainty, "Because you are not just speaking about some chunin. You are speaking about Naruto Uzumaki, future Hokage of the Village Hidden in the Leaves."

"Well, look who finally found her spine," Kabuto taunted, "However it seems that you found it too late. Look at you. You can barely stand. What do you hope to do in your condition besides die?"

"Simple. I'm going to kill you," she stated with conviction. Then releasing the seal on her forehead she called out, "Ninja Art: Mitotic Regeneration."

Kabuto watched on fascinated as the purple designs appeared from the diamond on Tsunade's face and then disappeared. Although he didn't see any massive sign of what was happening he knew she was somehow being healed at an incredible rate as she began to stand straighter. Giving Kabuto a threatening smile of her own, Tsunade said, "Now let's try this again," before launching herself at him trying to connect with a punch. Kabuto however managed to avoid it, instead hitting Tsunade in the spine severing it. But much to his horror she turned around smashing her fist into his face sending him flying.

As he landed, he rolled to his feet thinking, "Impossible, did she find a defense against my scalpels or is she healing so fast that my attacks have no effect?" However he couldn't dedicate anymore time to puzzling out the mystery as Tsunade closed on him delivering massive punishment onto him. Although he was able to heal the worst of the damage he was quickly reaching the point where he would no longer be able to keep up.

Receiving a particularly vicious blow to the head that sent him smashing into the ground he tried to pick himself up but couldn't. He then felt it as Tsunade reached her hand around his throat and then picking him up one handed, holding him suspend in the air, she said, "Any last words you want me to deliver to Orochimaru before you die?"

At the end of his rope and desperate Kabuto said despite the vice like grip around his throat, "That's alright. Do…you have anything you…want me to tell Naruto when I see…him on the other side? I poisoned the kunai I stabbed him with"

"You can't bluff me," Tsunade said, "You already said you were going to leave him alive."

"I intended to," Kabuto choked out, "give him the antidote after I killed you. However…your sudden resurgence…has prevented that from happening now hasn't it."

Looking him in the eyes and not surprised that she couldn't read whether he was lying or not she grabbed his medical pouch and ripped it off him. Dropping it to the ground she then delivered a tremendous punch to his jaw that sent Kabuto through a boulder. Snatching the medical bag up she ran back to where Naruto lay before pulling the kunai out and analyzing it. Not surprised that there was no poison on the blade. Turning back to where Kabuto had landed, she again wasn't too shocked that he was gone. Putting the Sound-nin out of her mind she canceled her jutsu watching as her genjutsu vanished to reveal her true appearance and then set about healing Naruto pleased that most of his injuries had already been taken care of by his tenant.

Shizune jumped back into the air causing Mi to smirk saying, "Got ya!" Raising her hands the strings wrapped around Shizune's airborne form and then charged them with electricity. However her smirk turned into a look of surprise as Shizune turned into a log. Trying to untangle her strings Mi felt a sudden pressure at the base of her skull before her world went black.

Shizune who had taken Mi's moment of confusion to sneak up behind her and hit her with a chakra scalpel in the brainstem thus ending the threat she posed took a moment to steady her breathing as she surveyed the battlefield. Spotting the body of Hibiki and the groove that Takeo had cut after being hit by Naruto's Rasengan, she decided to take off in the same direction Naruto did a little worried she didn't hear any sounds of combat.

However her fears proved baseless as she arrived to see Tsunade kneeling in her natural appearance cradling an obviously sleeping Naruto's head in her lap while staring down at him. Seeing the seal on Tsunade head missing Shizune said worriedly, "Lady Tsunade you broke the seal…"

Looking up from Naruto with a gentle smile, Tsunade said, "Don't fret Shizune. I didn't need to go all out and was able to cancel the jutsu before it reached the end of its duration. So the after effects should be negligible." Looking back down at Naruto she added, "Besides I would gladly trade a few years at the end of my life to safeguard this boy and the promise he holds."

Joining her master in staring at Naruto, Shizune was surprised to see the cursed necklace lying around his neck. Turning her gaze back to Shizune, Tsunade arched an eyebrow at her state of dress saying, "I didn't know it was that kind of battle Shizune."

Wondering what her master was referring to until a breeze reminded her that she was standing there in her shorts and her chest bindings she embarrassedly said, "The hazards of fighting a fire jutsu user I guess."

Nodding her head Tsunade without disturbing Naruto took off her green jacket for Shizune to use. As Shizune synched the front of the jacket she asked, "Should we return to Konoha?"

"No, we'll return to Crescent Cliffs Village to finish the mission," Tsunade said, "I'm sure that one way or another word has reached the Hokage and any back up he sent, would use the village as a rally point in their search."

Nodding her head Shizune watched as Tsunade gently picked Naruto up maneuvering him to her back before saying, "Let's get going."

"I can carry him, Lady Tsunade," Shizune offered.

Smiling Tsunade replied, "No thanks Shizune. The brat's carried me for most of this mission. I'm sure I can handle it until he wakes up."

Naruto woke up half way back to the Village and once Shizune and Tsunade explained that they planned to return to Crescent Cliff he created a clone and dispelled it to alert his clone with Tonton they were safe. Upon entering the village they were greeted by Joben, the head doctor of the hospital, who told them that Shinno had managed to create an antidote to the poison and locate the source of it.

"Is Shinno still here?" Tsunade asked.

"Y-yes Lady Tsunade," Joben replied.

"Can you please take me to him?" Tsunade asked causing Joben to nod his head. The head doctor led the three of them up to a room and upon entering they found Shinno packing his bag. As Shinno turned to them he plastered a smile on his face saying, "I trust you managed to deal with that situation satisfactorily."

"One of the scumbags managed to get away, but other than that I have no complaints," Tsunade said before bowing slightly adding, "Thank you for dealing with this disease while I was preoccupied. I am in your debt."

Chuckling Shinno said, "Well having a Sannin in my debt may come in handy someday. Should I ever need your services may I call on you?"

"Yes please do."

"Very good, well then I'm off." Turning to his apprentice he said, "Let's be going Amaru."

"Yes master," Amaru responded shifting her pack onto her shoulder.

Wishing the pair a good journey Tsunade decided to stay an extra night to make sure the pandemic was kept under control. In the morning back-up arrived in the form of Raidou and Genma with Tonton and the clone in tow. Having no reason to remain in the village they all made the journey back to the Leaf Village.

Entering the village they were ushered into the Hokage's office where they gave their report. Naruto placed his written report on the Hokage's desk after they gave their verbal report. Dismissing them Sarutobi wasn't surprised when Tsunade remained behind. After the door closed he asked, "Is there something I can do for you my dear?"

Hanging her head in the much the same way she used to when she felt she had disappointed her sensei when she was younger she said, "I'm sorry if I've disappointed you Sarutobi-sensei."

"What makes you think you've disappointed me, my dear?" Sarutobi asked seriously.

"How can you ask me that with a straight face Sarutobi-sensei?" Tsunade said incredulously.

Chuckling Sarutobi said, "Well let us see what Naruto thinks about what happened." Opening the report Naruto had left, he read aloud, "Granny Tsunade had to make a difficult choice and I'm glad she had faith in my ability to turn the situation to my advantage."

"What?!" she exclaimed approaching the desk and turning the report around so she could read it. Looking up from it she said, "That's all he wrote. I stood back and let him get almost killed twice and he writes only a single sentence on the whole affair."

Laughing heartily Sarutobi said, "Well I for one can appreciate it since it will cut down on my paper work. I can't tell you the number of reports I get in which the chunin or jounin who wrote them includes every single minute detail that happens during their missions."

Seeing that Tsunade was still shocked that Naruto's report didn't include her shame or didn't hold any harsh language about her Sarutobi said, "Do you know why Naruto doesn't hold any grudge against you for what happened during your mission?" Tsunade shook her head no so he continued, "The reason is because once long ago he was forced to make a similar choice. Leave his Home or take the chance his precise people would be hurt. As you know he chose to leave. Fortunately then like now everything has turned out alright."

"Yes but still…"

However Tsunade stopped as Sarutobi held up his hand saying, "You blame yourself which is understandable, however the person truly responsible is me."

"Funny, I don't remember seeing you there sensei," Tsunade said.

"And yet it was I that assigned you to the mission, a woman with glaring problems, with nothing but a chunin and jounin to back you up."

Unable to meet her sensei's eyes as he said that about her, she said, "It should have been more than enough for that type of mission."

"True, but shouldn't I have entertained the idea that violence may have broken out," Sarutobi said, "That is the excuse we gave Naruto after all. But if you must know the truth even knowing everything I know now. I would make the same decision." Chuckling again at Tsunade's shocked face he continued, "The reason for that my dear, is because through those hardships you all faced you emerged stronger."

"Sensei," Tsunade whispered silently asking for permission to speak receiving it she said, "You said that there once was a time when you would have chosen me to succeed you. What must I do to prove myself to be worthy of that honor again?"

Leaning forward in his chair he said his tone light, "What happened to only a fool would want this job?"

"I still believe that sensei," Tsunade said, "but I think I would like to live as a fool for a time."

Looking into Tsunade's brown eyes and seeing the fire that for a time had faded reborn stronger than ever he said, "First tell me. Why did you save Orochimaru's servant if you didn't need to."

"I'm a healer," Tsunade said, "besides I rigged it so Orochimaru will not be able to use him as a vessel. I guess I just hope that he will realize what kind of person Orochimaru truly is."

Smiling Sarutobi said proudly, "Your compassion will make you a great Hokage."

Surprised she said, "That's it. One screwed up mission, in which, I heal one of Orochimaru's men, almost get Naruto killed, and you are willing to hand me your position."

"Well there is one more thing I suppose," he said getting out of his chair to look over the village, "What if the gamble you took on this Kimimaro doesn't payoff and he becomes a mistake you regret."

"Then I'll correct it." Tsunade said determinedly.

Turning back from the window Sarutobi said proudly, "And that is ultimately all you can do as Hokage. Learn from your mistakes and correct them when possible." Sadly looking back out the window he said quietly, "Kami knows, I've made my share."

After a moment of silence he perked up saying, "Well if I'm going to hand you my title, there are people that need to be informed and meetings to set up. Come along my dear there is much for you to learn before assuming the title of Hokage."

This was the moment that Kimimaro had been born for. A week after being saved from death's door he was being prepped for the transfer of Orochimaru's spirit into his body. This was the moment for which he had suffered alone in the dark for all those years. So that Lord Orochimaru could find him and make him a true part of his ambition as a vessel. Kimimaro was pulled from his thoughts as Kabuto attached a medical pad to him, which would allow a monitor in a room on the second level to monitor his vitals, causing Kimimaro to look at him strangely asking, "May I ask what this is for?"

Smiling at Kimimaro as he headed up to the second level of the room with the monitoring equipment he said, "You never can be too careful. I know you've been given a clean bill of health but I just want to make sure the transfer goes smoothly. You understand right?"

"Of course, the safety of our Lord comes first," Kimimaro said reverently

Walking out of the room Kabuto held back a grimace at Orochimaru's plan to use Kimimaro as a host so soon after Tsunade's treatment. Truth be told, Orochimaru probably would have insisted on the transfer the moment they returned if he didn't think so highly of Tsunade's ability to not only heal but kill using her vast medical prowess. That was one of the things that if Kabuto was honest with himself he found annoying about Orochimaru and that was how sometimes when the objects he desired were within his grasp he would get impatient. For instance, he had only given Kabuto a week to run his test on Kimimaro to determine whether or not Tsunade had left a surprise for them hidden in the Kaguya's body. Despite his insistence that a week wasn't enough time to check for everything that Tsunade may have done Orochimaru had been unwilling to listen. However, he had taken steps just in case something went wrong.

In the room Kimimaro waited patiently as the door opened and Tayuya wheeled in Orochimaru. Most of his burns were healed but he was still weak. However Orochimaru was tired of waiting and with Kimimaro healed and Kabuto unable to find anything Tsunade may have left he decided to indulge himself. The thoughts of what he could do with the Kaguya's powers almost made him light-headed with joy. He was also interested to know what would happen if in three years when he needed to change bodies if the young man's powers would transfer as well. It would be a good test for when he inevitably possessed Sasuke.

Tayuya walked out of the room feeling a cold shiver run down her spine. She never really cared for any of the Sound Five but she figured even Kimimaro deserved more than the fate that awaited him. For the life of her she couldn't ever figure how the Kaguya could actually look forward to giving up his life. Granted they all felt indebted to the Snake Sannin but she didn't know if she would be able to ever give up her body and she suspected soul for him. Putting such thoughts away for now she decided to leave the base to get some fresh air.

Looking up from his wheelchair Orochimaru said, "Are you ready Kimimaro?"

Kneeling Kimimaro replied, "Yes my Lord."

"Excellent, do you have any request of me? For we will always be united after this," Orochimaru asked kindly.

"No my Lord, this moment is the reason for my existence."

Leaning back in his wheelchair he opened his mouth and a object shot out of it before growing into Orochimaru's true white snake form. Kimimaro looked on in awe as his master began the process of transferring his spirit into his body.

Up in the second story room Kabuto monitored all of Kimimaro's vitals as the transfer began. However as Orochimaru's chakra began to engulf Kimimaro a spike became apparent on one of the monitors as Kimimaro's heart began to speed up dangerously. A few seconds later more of the boy's vitals began rising to dangerous levels. Running for the door to the room Kabuto ran out yelling, "Stop Lord Orochimaru you must not complete the transfer."

"Kabuto?" Orochimaru said looking up at him the confusion evident in his voice. "What is the meaning of this? You know once the process begins I must change bodies soon"

Dropping down to the first level to the room Kabuto ran to a door that opened to a similar room in which he had the other potential candidates battled to the death. Opening it he said, "I know Lord Orochimaru. I have prepared a suitable replacement through this door." Orochimaru slithered through the door and before Kabuto closed it completely they could hear a man screaming in the background.

Still kneeling and shocked at the turn of events Kimimaro said, "I don't understand. What went wrong? Why am I not fit to be the vessel for Orochimaru's spirit?"

"I'm sorry Kimimaro but it seems that Tsunade placed a poison within your cure," Kabuto said.

"So I'm going to die after all," Kimimaro said calmly.

"No it seems that the poison will only be activated by Lord Orochimaru's chakra. So as long as you aren't exposed to it like you would be as a vessel the poison remains inert." Kabuto then said sadly, "However seeing as she made it a part of your cure, I'm afraid you will never be able to serve as a vessel for Lord Orochimaru." Walking away to check on his master Kabuto couldn't help but smile at the screams of Kimimaro as he vented his rage at being denied his purpose for living.

Kimimaro raged in the room until his throat was sore. So this was the way Tsunade planned to show him what she claimed was the truth of his master. By denying him his one reason for existing. Well he now had a new reason to exist and that was to make Tsunade rue the day she had saved his life. He would do so by sending her the headbands of all the Leaf Shinobi he killed and after the weight of her guilt became too much for her to bear he would finish the job by adding her to his list of victims. Left alone in the dark and dank room he began to laugh as his new destiny became apparent to him.

Naruto was sitting in Ichiraku sending a small glare at Haku for the dirty trick that the dark-haired boy had played on him. Apparently while Naruto was away on his mission with Tsunade, Haku's eternal rival had continuously hounded him with sparring requests. He had agreed to most of them, but had sent Naruto in his place telling the Blonde he would be their shortly. But Haku hadn't shown making it so that Naruto in an effort to keep the green clad dynamo from pouting had spent all morning fighting Lee. Haku had finally shown up around noon with the former sound girl, who promptly told Haku she had to leave to meet with her sensei. To thank Naruto for occupying Lee he agreed to buy him all the ramen he could eat it almost made him feel guilty for telling Lee that Haku also saw him as his greatest rival. Lee had joined them and despite being pounded on all morning by the genin Naruto would admit that he did enjoy bushy brow's company especially after challenging Naruto to a ramen eating contest much to Haku's chagrin.

On bowl number twenty-five for each, Tenten came running into the stand dressed in her usual training clothes having heard the commotion as people came to watch the two and bet on the outcome. "Lee there you are," she said excitedly.

Looking up from his bowl of noodles Lee said, "I'm sorry, did I forget a sparring match with you this morning Tenten."

"No, I just heard some great news and wanted to share it with you first," Tenten said.

Eyes getting wide Lee said, "Gai-sensei is back from his mission."

Sighing a little at Lee's hero worship of Gai, she said, "No Lee. They've named Lady Tsunade as the Fifth Hokage."

Now it was Naruto's turn to stop eating as he nearly choked saying, "What they made Granny Tsunade the next Hokage?"

"Yes they made LADY Tsunade the Hokage," Tenten said emphasizing the Lady part of her title. Turning back to Lee she said a little shyly, "Anyway Lee, they are making it official tomorrow and I was wondering whether you would accompany me to the ceremony.

"Yes of course I would Tenten," he replied then realizing that he was falling behind in bowls quickly resumed eating.

Smiling at Lee she said, "Okay, I'll see you tomorrow then," before leaving the stand.

Tenten had apparently spread the word which was why Naruto found himself in front of the Ninja Academy as Tsunade stood on the roof giving her acceptance speech with Hinata and Sakura at his sides. Both girls upon hearing the news had tried to find Naruto to ask him to escort them. Unfortunately for the girls they had both arrived at the same time so he had agreed to escort them both. As Tsunade pledged to protect the village Naruto grumbled crossing his arms in front of him, "That should be me up there. I did way more than her during that mission."

Giggling and pulling his arm away from his chest so she could wrap her own around it Hinata said, "I'm pretty sure they offered her the position for more than just what happened during your mission with her. She did almost single handedly keep us in The Second Great Shinobi War by countering all of the Lady Chiyo's poisons."

Sakura quickly did the same returning the small glare that Hinata sent at her as she wrapped her own arms around his. Supportively she said, "Don't worry Naruto, that'll be you up there one day I'm sure."

"I guess you guys are right," Naruto conceded his bandaged face still wearing a slight pout causing both girls to giggle.

Still giggling slightly Hinata looked at some of the people in the crowd feeling someone's eyes on her. Spotting her teammate Shino with his father she quickly concluded he wasn't the person staring at her. Continuing her search she saw Kurenai standing with Asuma stopping for a moment to wonder if that signified anything. Finally she spotted Ami who was staring at her lost in thought. Realizing that Hinata was staring right at her, Ami quickly looked away, a small blush on her cheeks whether from being caught staring or some other reason she couldn't say. Hinata could see that Ami was still trying to discreetly look her way so she waved at her slightly causing the purple haired girl to quickly leave. Frowning Hinata had hoped that her having apologized to Ami for hurting her the day after her talk with Naruto on the Hokage's monument would of helped them to reach an understanding. However perhaps there was still a chance it may have, seeing as Ami hadn't made an issue of her waving at her and instead quietly left. She hoped that Kurenai would be available to lead Team Eight again soon so that she could see if her new approach when dealing with Ami would pay off.

"…Hinata," realizing that Naruto was talking to her she said, "I'm sorry were you saying something Naruto."

"I was wondering if you would like to join us at this dumpling place Haku wants me to try," Naruto said smiling at her. A quick look at Sakura showed her what her pink-haired friend hoped she would say. Not feeling particularly accommodating Hinata said sweetly, "I would love too, Naruto."

"Good, I think Haku also wants us to go to meet his friend Kin," Naruto said, "She is an ex-Sound-nin and she's having trouble making friends as a result."

Smiling at Naruto while cling to his left arm still as they walked Sakura said, "Don't worry Naruto if she is a friend of yours and Haku we'll be sure to treat her warmly." Hinata nodded her head in agreement. Although both girls meant it they each thought to themselves, "Provided she keeps her sights off of my Naruto."

Tsunade sat in the Hokage's office basking a little in the feeling of it now being her office. She remembered playing here as a child as her grandfather worked for the betterment of the village. Now it was her turn and she would prove equal to the task.

"It's a heady feeling isn't sitting behind that desk the first time as Hokage," Sarutobi said from a couch Tsunade had placed along the wall for guests with a pipe hanging from his mouth.

Smiling she got up the desk to look out on the village saying, "Daunting is more like it.

"Do not fret child," Sarutobi said kindly, "I will help you whenever possible."

Turning to her sensei she said, "Are you sure? If anyone deserves to retire and forget about the troubles that plague this office it is you Sarutobi-sensei."

Laughing heartily Sarutobi said, "No need to worry. I plan to live long enough to enjoy a nice long retirement besides I was never one for just sitting around playing Shougi."

A knock at her office door interrupted any reply as she asked who it was. Her secretary who she had kept on at Sarutobi's insistence told her the people she had summoned had arrived. Telling her to let them in she took her position behind her desk as the three people she sent for entered.

Smiling at them while hiding her revulsion for one of them she said, "Thank you for coming."

"Not at all," Koharu said, "We look forward t working with you Lady Hokage."

Tsunade grimaced internally at that as growing up she had the utmost respect for Koharu as a fellow kunoichi and knowing what she was about to say would probably hurt the older lady she felt a pang of regret. However eyeing Danzou she knew it was a necessary step. Trying to sound calm she said, "Well actually that is why I've called you elders here. For too long too many voices have diluted what the Hokage has thought was best for the village. As a result actions have taken place that I imagine my grandfather would never have agreed to." Pausing she could see that each of the elders took her subtle reminder of the Uchiha Massacre differently she could see the hurt look on Koharu's face. Her teammate Homura revealed nothing of what he was thinking while Danzou seemed to take it with calm indifference.

"So with that in mind," she continued, "I have decided that from now on the only elder who will have direct means to speak with me on policy will be Sarutobi-sensei."

Homura said in his deep voice, "So you are stripping us of our elder status."

"Not at all," Tsunade said calmly, "However instead I am creating a position of Head elder for Sarutobi-sensei seeing as I am fortunate to have the council of a former Hokage who has served in this position for most of his life. If you wish to bring matters to my attention then you may do so through him. I believe it will help streamline the process so to speak." Adding a hard edge to her voice, she said, "However let me be clear about one thing. I understand that some of the actions you three have undertaken in the past have been with the belief that it was for the best of the village. Yet I think somewhere along the way you have forgotten that this is a village with principles and the moment we begin to sacrifice those principles to survive is the moment the village we love has truly perished. So should I find out about any clandestine operations authorized without my direct approval, I will personnel end you are we clear?"

Sarutobi two old teammates merely nodded their head while Danzou gave a stoic, "Crystal… Lady Hokage." Before asking, "Is that all?"

Nodding her head the three bowed their heads slightly before leaving the office. After they were gone she let out a deep breath turning to her sensei saying, "I'm sure that was difficult for you to watch."

"Yes," Sarutobi said gravely, "and while I do not want to believe my old teammates would completely align themselves with Danzou. Their decisions over the past couple of years have made it a possibility that we cannot ignore. By doing things this way we will at least remove them from the loop somewhat making it more difficult for them to see what we are planning exactly."

"Has Ibiki made any progress in uncovering whether or not Root still exists, or Danzou's involvement in Kushina's disappearance?"

Shaking his head sadly Sarutobi said, "No, I'm afraid not. The problem we currently have is that he is aware of all of our best means of spying on him and as a result he is well prepared in counter-surveillance. But Ibiki is working on a means of countering that advantage, but we may still be years away from any actual movement on that front. So for now the best we can do is limiting his effectiveness at learning new information and affecting village policy."

"I just hope it will be enough," Tsunade said before walking to the window of her office.

"Have faith in those around you Tsunade they will come through for Konoha."

Thinking of a certain blonde boy Tsunade said smiling, "I do."

Walking back to his compound Danzou had to hand it to his rival. By handing his position to Tsunade he had effectively allowed her to rewrite the rules. This little position of Head Elder was a perfect example. However he may be able to make this work for him by gaining new allies in the form of Koharu and Homura after all being treated as potential enemies after a lifetime of service may be just the thing he needed to get them to put their full support behind him. But he would have to be careful and make sure it wasn't just a rouse by Sarutobi to get assets close to him. In any case, his secret weapons will help him to remove the more important pieces from the board that the Hokage would surround herself with and as any good strategist knows it is not just numbers or political favors that win battles but the quality of the pawns you have in play.