An: Thank you for the reviews as always. As of right now due to the number reviews to chapters this story averages about twenty-three for a chapter. So again thank you they make writing the story well worth the effort. Your humble author S. o. t. A.
Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto and I'm doing this for fun not profit
Chapter 37: Advancing Pieces
Tayuya had met with the Hokage, Shizune, and Sakura at the hospital, but the Hokage had quickly decided to take the examination outside. She was now standing in a field next to some strange device that looked like a platform that was on a vertical railing. Beneath the platform was a harness that looked like it would rest on a person's shoulder. Next to the device was a large pile of rocks.
Walking up to the contraption Tsunade said, "Alright let's begin."
"Begin what," Tayuya asked eyeing the device warily.
"Why don't you explain it Sakura?" Tsunade asked her new apprentice.
"We, I mean Lady Tsunade, believes that your DNA has been changed by the curse mark," Sakura said sounding a little shaky in the beginning but gaining confidence as she spoke.
"Exactly," Tsunade said smiling at the pink-haired girl, "You see when Sasuke was bitten there was a strange amount of cellular activity that I found curious. However at the time we were more concerned with sealing it so I didn't pay it much mind. Now though, I believe that the reason the Curse Mark proves to be fatal to so many is that very few people can stand having their DNA being rewritten. In actuality the mark is merely the means by which you were able to control the changes that were done to you."
"Wait, your saying my DNA was changed," Tayuya asked uncomfortable with the idea.
"It would probably be more accurate to say something was added to your cellular structure," Sakura said receiving a proud nod from Tsunade she continued, "It's probably why Orochimaru needs to bite you in order to inject the enzymes into your body."
"So what does that torture device have to do with all of this then?" Tayuya said throwing a thumb in the machines direction.
"It seems that without the Curse Mark to control the change. The next best trigger is adrenaline," Tsunade answered. "Therefore we are going to strap you to the bottom of that platform and then pile those rocks onto it until you change."
"What if I don't?" Tayuya asked.
"Then it's going to be a very long day for you," Tsunade answered while Shizune and Sakura moved Tayuya to the device.
After strapping her in and with the padded harness resting on her shoulders, Tayuya watched in amazement as Sakura approached a rock as big as her and lifted it in the air. Although she struggled she eventually managed to climb the steps next to the machine and place it on the platform. Tayuya almost collapsed from the one rock before regaining her footing having been surprised at exactly how much it weighed. Several more were added before Tayuya said she didn't think she could handle anymore.
Tsunade had Sakura stop and the three medical shinobi settled in to wait. About an hour passed, before a bored Tsunade pulled out a deck of cards. Another hour later the cards were gone due to Sakura trouncing Tsunade earning a month long vacation with pay and Tayuya had slipped into a steady stream of curses about how heavy the platform was beginning to feel as she began to falter.
Dropping to one knee Tayuya said, "I'm done get these fucking rocks off."
"I'm afraid not," Tsunade said, "The whole point of this was to recreate the desperation you felt when you were caught in that jutsu on your mission. Now push that platform back into position."
Glaring at the blonde, Tayuya began to attempt to do precisely that while cursing the entire time. However the weight was proving to be too heavy. Straining, she eventually began to feel an upsurge in energy and was able to get back to her feet. She vaguely noticed that the three medics were now scanning her as her skin darkened. As she moved the platform back into position she felt a latch grab it and was quickly removed from the machine as the medics studied her.
The brief power surge left her as her body as it returned to normal causing her to get a little light headed. Shizune steadied her and gently lowered her to a sitting position in the grass. Breathing hard Tayuya asked, "What's the diagnosis?"
"First let me ask some questions," Tsunade said. "How would you compare this transformation as opposed to when you had the Curse Mark?"
"I guess it feels the same, accept the chakra boost doesn't feel as sinister as it did before. Not to mention there doesn't seem to be a first level to it."
Tsunade nodded before asking, "Are the side effects the same?"
"Yeah, I felt this wiped out after using the Curse Mark too, although I was able to maintain my second form for a few hours then."
"What do you think Sakura?" Tsunade said turning to her new apprentice.
"I think the Curse Mark acts just like the seal on your forehead Milady," Sakura answered. "It stores and holds chakra for when a shinobi transforms in order to sustain that transformation. The power boost though seems to be coming from the actual cells, which suggests that it is from the agent he injects them with when giving the Curse Mark."
"Then how would you explain the initial power boost they achieved before gaining their second ability?" Shizune asked in her Master's stead having a good idea of what Tsunade wanted Sakura to touch upon.
Caught off guard by the question Sakura thought for a moment, remembering what she had read about Tayuya's debriefing and the questions they had asked about the Curse Mark. Coming to an answer she said, "Well if I remember correctly, there is a second procedure to actually develop the second form of the curse mark. Therefore, the initial power boost must be a result of that sinister feeling Tayuya said is missing. Probably when active the seal uses the stored chakra and mixes it with some of Orochimaru's own. That would also explain why Anko reported hers acted up in close proximity to Orochimaru."
"Wait, you are saying the Curse Mark merely used my own chakra to boost my strength?" Tayuya asked before cursing, "That fucking son of a bitch."
"It would appear that way," Tsunade said with a smile as Tayuya continued to curse. "I suppose I really shouldn't be surprised. The true strength behind the curse mark is the cells that he injects you with and your own stored up chakra. With a little of his mixed in to sell the idea he gave you some incredible power. Tell me, how often did you go to your level two form?"
"Not often. Is it dangerous?"
"No. I merely wanted to see how long it took to store up enough chakra to make this transformation last a few hours," Tsunade replied.
"Will I be able to use it in battle again?" Tayuya asked.
"You might," Tsunade answered, "Let me confer with Jiraiya. He may be able to come up with a seal that will allow you to control the transformation and store chakra much like the Curse Mark did. But for now I suggest you practice chakra control for the time being to build up your reserves."
Tayuya nodded her head before asking, "Will it be alright if I leave now? I really want to be their when we welcome Sasame to the team."
Tsunade arched an eyebrow, "Hasn't she been with Anko this entire time?"
Tayuya merely gave a cryptic smile in return but received permission to leave.
Sasame wasn't convinced this was a mere forest but in actuality a piece of hell. So far she had almost been eaten, poisoned, and drowned by the various plant and animal life that called this forest home. She now understood why when she had asked Sakura, the girl that showed her to her apartment, where the forest was. She had given a little shudder.
Waking up bright and early she had fastened the face plate that marked her as a sponsored shinobi to her mask so that whether it was rolled up into a hat or down to cover her face it showed. Arriving at sunrise as instructed she had expected to be greeted by her team, but all she found was a note saying, "Find us."
She had been confident she'd easily find them. After all, she had survived in the forests of Rice Field Country for months while trying to get into Northgate. That confidence had quickly faded though, to the point she would be happy if she made it out of the forest in one piece. As she avoided a bunch of leeches that fell from the tree above her she amended her idea of being happy to making it out at all.
Reaching a clearing with an upturned tree she trudged over to it while wondering how long she would have to endure this hell. She sat on the tree to catch her breath, ears listening for any sound that she was once again being considered as one of the creatures that called the forest home next meal. She heard a twig snap behind her causing her to jump from the tree and spin to look in the direction she had heard the noise.
She didn't see anything, so she lowered the kunai that she had grabbed to defend herself. That was when she heard the sound of a weight giving way. Before she could wonder what it was she was yanked into the air by the snare trap she had landed in. Spinning around while upside down while being suspended by her ankles, she saw the three smiling faces of her would be team.
"Looks like we get to eat today Anko-sensei," Kin said.
"I don't know," Tayuya added, "She looks kind of scrawny to me. Probably all bone."
"I got it," Anko suddenly said, "We'll use her as bait."
With that the three turned to leave causing Sasame to say, "Anko-sensei, please cut me down."
Without looking back, Anko said as she left the clearing, "You're a kunoichi. Do it yourself."
Sasame looked on unbelieving as they disappeared into the woods again. Reaching into her pouch she grabbed a kunai and tried to raise up enough to cut the rope around her ankles but couldn't. She began to panic afraid Anko would leave her there. She began to get a little frantic, but remembering that she was Sasame Fuuma and she had the responsibility to prove to the world the Fuuma were strong, calmed down. Taking aim she threw the kunai to where she saw the rope was tied off at. As it gave way she tried to land on her feet but was probably going to land on her back or front and closed her eyes. She was surprised when the hard landing never came. So opening her eyes found she had been caught by Anko. Before she could thank her she was let go and fell the rest of the way to the ground. She gave out a small 'upfh' as she landed.
Staring up at her new sensei who said, "Pretty reckless maggot," before smiling and saying, "You'll fit in just fine. Now come along."
As they left the forest Kin asked, "Aren't we going to train today Anko-sensei?"
Giving a sickly sweet smile Anko replied, "Oh absolutely Kinnie."
The Team Anko arrived at the main gate to see Guy and Rock Lee, who was wearing his green jumpsuit, standing there jogging in place. Spotting the women Guy said, "Ah, Anko which two ladies are these for," as he pulled out two of his famous green jumpsuits.
Anko had stepped behind Kin and Tayuya so pushed them forward saying, "That would be these two right here."
Looking back at her sense Tayuya said, "Hey what's the big idea."
"You and Kin are going to be going on a marathon run with Guy and his pupil all the way to Demon Country to deliver some documents and back," Anko said.
"We aren't packed for that," Kin said quickly.
Pulling a scroll she unsealed two backpacks saying, "Don't worry, I took the time to gather a few things for you."
She tossed them to the pair and Kin looking in said, "There aren't any clothes."
"That's because you'll be wearing those," Anko said pointing to the two jumpsuits Guy was holding that were blowing gently in the wind.
Turning back quickly Tayuya said, "You can't be serious."
"Deadly. Now put them on," Anko replied.
Both girls took the jumpsuits and entered the bathroom near the main gate for the shinobi on duty. Coming out wearing the jumpsuits Kin said, soft enough that Guy and Lee couldn't hear, "I thought you weren't going to punish us for disobeying you during the mission."
"Oh this isn't about what happened in Northgate," Anko replied much to the girls' confusion as they shared a look. "This is about what happened in Fuuma Alley. I said no heroics and meant it." Addressing the eccentric jounin, she said, "Thanks again Guy. So when can I expect your return?"
"Well the trip to Demon Country takes about five days each way. Therefore, I imagine we can do it in eight days total." Guy said giving his nice guy pose while Tayuya and Kin began to look a little pale.
"Guy-sensei," Rock Lee said enthusiastically, "I believe we can do it in seven days."
"Don't sell yourselves short," Anko said, "I bet you can do it in five."
"Five it is then," Guy said giving his too bright smile, "If we don't make it back here in five days. I'll clean the streets of litter with five hundred pounds strapped to my back."
"Yosh, I will help as well," Lee shouted.
"Come youth waits for no one," Guy said running off with Lee right behind him.
Both girls sent a dirty look Anko's way before following behind. Anko merely cheerfully waved good-bye before turning to Sasame and saying, "Now Sasame. However should I tortu…I mean train you for the day."
Sasame gulped nervously before following behind Anko who was whistling a tune happily.
Hinata was summoned to the Hokage's office after morning training with her father. Tsunade had told her not to bother coming to train with her and Sakura due to some other pressing concern so had been surprised when the Anbu had showed up. Arriving at the office, the secretary told her to go on ahead. Entering the room she spotted Shino standing next to Kiba, who had Akamaru on his head.
"Ah excellent Hinata," Tsunade said before addressing the three genin, "The reason I've called you and Kiba here is because Shino raised an interesting idea and after addressing it in the council. We have decided to move forward with his suggestion."
Both genin looked to Shino in surprise, who at Tsunade's silent prompting said, "I believe that we should take steps to retrieve Sasuke from Orochimaru's clutches."
"I say forget him," Kiba said angrily with Akamaru yipping in agreement, "He's long since stopped being a member of Konoha."
Remaining calm in the face of Kiba's anger Shino responded, "I am not talking about doing it for Sasuke's sake Kiba, but Konoha's."
Getting a confused look Kiba eloquently said, "Huh!"
"Sasuke is now a missing-nin," Shino said, "His continued existence and any further crimes he commits will eventually reflect poorly on us and our home. Furthermore, if we are not perceived as doing our best to capture and imprison him it may give those looking to attack us all the reason they need."
"That may be true Shino," Hinata said, "But from what I understand the trail has long since gone cold."
"Astute as always Hinata, which is why it is fortunate that his defection coincides with the seven year mating cycle of the Bikouchuu," Shino replied.
"Nothing personal buddy, but if the Inuzuka couldn't track that bastard down, I doubt a bunch of bugs will," Kiba said.
"The Bikouchuu have a sense of smell that far surpasses any nin-dog Kiba," Shino said his tone carrying just a hint of ire.
"Um, okay sorry buddy," Kiba replied holding his hands up.
"In any case," Tsunade said cutting in, "This presents a perfect opportunity to put our house in order so to speak. We all have seen what kind of havoc a missing-nin like Orochimaru can cause given enough time. This way we can kill two snakes at once."
"Alright," Kiba said slamming a fist into his palm, "I've been dying for some action. So where are we heading."
"There is a valley near the Waterfall Country border that the beetles live in," Shino answered.
"Hinata, Kiba you are dismissed to go get ready," Tsunade said, "Be ready to leave within the hour."
Both genin acknowledged the order taking off to prepare. When they were alone Tsunade said, "You are aware of what your true objective is, aren't you?"
"I have not forgotten," Shino answered.
"Very well, I think you may have made it far more difficult by taking those two along," Tsunade said getting up to look out the window.
"That is a possibility, but I was under the impression that this mission had to look like we were putting our best foot forward. I could have chosen less qualified teammates true. But then I believe questions would have been raised later."
"I just wanted to make sure you understand what you are getting yourself into. Especially since, Hinata was your teammate and Kiba seems to be a good friend of yours. I wouldn't want secrets to come between you," Tsunade responded turning to look at the genin.
"Although my father has not told me much, he has told me my task is an important one, Lady Tsunade. I will not falter in my duty," Shino said.
Tsunade dismissed him returning to her desk to once more look over the folder Ibiki had given her concerning the true objective of the mission, which had nothing to do with Sasuke Uchiha. Putting it in the trash can she set it aflame and wished her genin luck.
"Quit rushing on ahead, Kiba," Shino said his tone carrying a minor rebuke.
"Sorry," Kiba replied somehow sincerely considering it was the fourth such rebuke since their journey began, "It's just, you don't know how good it feels to be doing missions again."
As the two talked Hinata wondered, not for the first time, why Shino of all people had been the one to suggest this mission. It didn't fit with the knowledge she had of him. Her concerns must have shown on her face as Shino asked, "Is something the matter Hinata?"
"I guess I'm having trouble understanding why you are taking Sasuke's defection so seriously," Hinata answered honestly. "It wasn't like you were particularly close to him."
"Were the reasons I gave in the Hokage's office insufficient?" Shino asked. His voice even but to those who knew him sounded slightly guarded.
"Not at all," Hinata replied, "They were perfectly reasonable. Almost rehearsed."
Shino gave no outward sign that Hinata's probing remark bothered him as he said, "I suppose they would be. Considering the number of times I had to give them to the various councilors I talked to in order to get this mission approved. It seems that many of them wish to forget Sasuke is out there and want to pretend he is no threat to Konoha."
Rubbing the spot on his shoulder where Sasuke had hit him with Chidori Kiba said, "I don't think he means Konoha any harm though. He wants to kill his brother."
"A reasonable speculation," Shino said evenly, "However in nature certain species of ants, when the colony grows too large, will send out a queen to make a new one. If the two colonies are close enough and they begin to compete with one another. One colony will eventually attack and destroy the other despite sharing a common point of origin."
"Are you saying, you believe that Sasuke will eventually attack the Leaf?" Kiba asked a little skeptical. "I mean sure he's a traitorous bastard but still…"
"Kiba the mere fact, that he almost killed you. Suggests that nothing but what he wants matters to him," Shino said and although his tone to most would sound even and calm to his friends they could hear the disgust which he felt towards the Uchiha. "And while you may wish to believe his only goal is to kill Itachi you cannot be sure that will always be his goal. He may one day wish to raise the banner of the Uchiha again somewhere, and I doubt it will be under one of the other shinobi villages, meaning he will in all likely hood wish to start his own. With a death mark on him, due to his missing-nin status, the only way he could effectively do that is to destroy Konoha."
"Man you are really paranoid," Kiba said teasingly.
"I wonder, if you would think I was paranoid, if I told you that basically the same thing was said by Lord Jiraiya right after Orochimaru defected," Shino replied. "When the council refused to take his words seriously Lord Jiraiya spent the next thirteen years hunting for Orochimaru. But time proved him wise and that is why they accepted my petition for this mission."
"Alright I get it," Kiba said walking on ahead, "I suppose I can't really say Sasuke wouldn't become a threat with time. So let's pick up the pace."
"There's no need to rush," Shino said, "While it's true this is the Bikouchuu mating period. They will not actually lay the eggs until after the first rain fall."
Hinata could see that Kiba was rearing to go so said, "That may be true, but shouldn't we try and push it maybe a little. There's no sense in wasting time and we wouldn't want to cut it to fine in case it does rain. I did a little research and don't the Bikouchuu become useless as trackers after they hatch."
"That is correct," Shino answered. Pointing to the horizon he said, "However, I do not see any clouds in the air so feel haste is unnecessary."
"Oh it's going to rain soon," Kiba said, "I can smell it."
Shino stared at Kiba for a moment before finally saying, "Then allow me to change my earlier order."
Kiba merely gave a wolfish smile before jumping into the trees followed by Akamaru and Hinata. Alone for a moment Shino couldn't help a minuscule sigh as he thought, "Perhaps, I should have considered Lady Tsunade's point more carefully."
Kabuto was smirking as he stood behind the throne of Orochimaru as Guren prostrated herself before the Snake Sannin as she begged his forgiveness for failing him. Orochimaru claimed to forgive her, of course, but in actuality had never truly cared who emerged victorious from their battle. He told her to return to her place of isolation if she wished. Kabuto noted the look of pain that crossed her face at the idea that Orochimaru no longer needed her before she bowed once more and left.
Once the crystal user was gone Orochimaru said, "Did you enjoy the show Kabuto?"
"Immensely Lord Orochimaru," Kabuto replied unable to keep the amusement from his voice.
Chuckling Orochimaru said, "She truly rubs you the wrong way, doesn't she?"
"I suppose her attitude does grate on my nerves," Kabuto conceded while watching the door, "Yet, I would say she amuses me more."
"That secure in your position as my number two, are you Kabuto?" Orochimaru said still chuckling.
"Not at all Lord Orochimaru," Kabuto replied in a tone that sounded both sincere and condescending at the same time, "I have no doubt you would discard me as readily as any of your other pawns if it suited your purpose."
"That is why you are so valuable Kabuto," Orochimaru said getting up from his throne to head to his lab Kabuto following into step at his side, "That you understand that, yet serve me so faithfully truly makes you an incredible follower. Sasori truly was a fool to let such a valuable puppet get away. Now tell me, where do we stand with Kagero?"
"Well the results of my preliminary tests show that the more virulent cells we harvested from Juugo have indeed created a fascinating specimen but she may not be suitable as a host," Kabuto said.
"Why is that?"
"I'll need to run more test to be sure," Kabuto said, "Unfortunately this facility doesn't have the testing equipment that others have. However, to answer your question unlike Arashi she doesn't seem capable of sustaining the DNA she absorbs. Although for a short time she can create a perfect replica."
"Explain"
Grinning Kabuto said, "Perhaps it would be better if I showed you." He then opened the door to the lab monitoring Orochimaru's reaction closely and caught the minute sign of shock when upon entering it he saw Kimimaro standing in the sterile room.
Kimimaro bowed saying, "Lord Orochimaru."
"H…How is this possible?" Orochimaru said in one of the few unguarded moments of surprise Kabuto had ever seen his master show.
"As I said," Kabuto responded walking towards Kimimaro, "Kagero can create a perfect replica right down to the cellular level after taking in a small DNA sample. Even their chakra signatures are the same. Unfortunately, the effect lasts only for about an hour."
A timer sounded in the lab and sure enough Kimimaro's features began to fade instead replaced by Kagero's. The Fuuma women staggered slightly before blinking her eyes showing that her eyes were no longer pupil-less instead having regained their blue shade. "Dammit," Kabuto said quickly before the dazed Fuuma could question where she was he injected her with a sedative they used to put Juugo to sleep.
"I was under the impression she was dead," Orochimaru said.
"She was killed true, but her time as a part of Arashi restored her to life," Kabuto said, "Her higher brain functions were suppressed due to the link with Arashi it would seem. As she retained no memory of what happened in Northgate but with his death they have returned. I've been suppressing her personality with a combination of drugs and hypnotic suggestion courtesy of Sasuke. But perhaps due to her new cellular structure the effects don't last and wear off faster if we use her new ability."
"Still while she may not be a perfect host the initial experiment has bore some very interesting results."
"Indeed Lord Orochimaru," Kabuto said securing the woman in a storage device, "With a little proper fine tuning, she would become a formidable assassin. Able to get close to her targets, as a friendly face, and even a Chakra Sensor wouldn't be able to tell the difference."
"Yes, perhaps even close enough to remove a rather severe Pain from my backside. By posing as his angel, wouldn't you say Kabuto? But for now take her to our research base in the North. Take Sasuke with you as well as that new recruit. I feel she may be of use in the science department."
"Sasuke isn't going to like that," Kabuto warned, "You know how angry he gets at anything that disturbs his training. Not to mention, he has been trying to keep his distance from her due to her infatuation with him."
Walking from the lab Orochimaru said, "Well we can't let Sasuke believe he is more important to my scheme, than he actually is now can we Kabuto?"
"I suppose not, Lord Orochimaru" Kabuto answered sighing that he would be the one that had to deal with the petulant shinobi's mood.
Shino had called for a stop as night had fallen which had suited Hinata just fine as it was near a beautiful waterfall. After she was sure her friends were asleep she had headed right for it. Shedding all her clothes, mindful of just how close they were to the Waterfall Country border, she stepped onto the water to practice the jutsu she had been working on ever since her first defeat at Naruto's hands during the spar they had shortly after his return from finding the Fifth Hokage. While it was true their spare hadn't truly been an all out one, despite both of their wishes to the contrary. It had shown Hinata a flaw in one of the tried and true techniques of the Hyuuga, Rotation.
That flaw was the spin necessary for the jutsu. Smiling as she moved over the water she couldn't help but marvel that in a single spar Naruto had found such a hole in a technique the Hyuuga had used for centuries. As she had watched other Hyuuga's, like her father, use the jutsu she had to admit it was an opening universal to all of them. And that was due to the mere fact that since the Hyuuga in question was spinning there was a moment of disorientation as soon as the jutsu ended. Granted only an opponent like Naruto could truly take advantage of it due to his ability to coordinate perfectly with his clones. But a weakness was still a weakness, so she had set about hoping to correct it. Her method was to use her flexibility coupled with her impressive chakra control to stand her ground while covering almost every inch of her. Her technique may not be as all encompassing as Rotation, but she believed it could give the jutsu a run for its money.
Eventually though the need for training gave way to merely wanting to enjoy the night as she began to dance over the water. Moving to her own tempo she glided over it like a nymph still allowing her chakra to move the water around her. Closing her eyes she imagined herself dancing for Naruto dressed at first. But, her fantasy quickly morphed into a less innocent one as her mental image changed to show her current state of dress. She enjoyed the look of desire she imagined her nude form would spark in Naruto causing her movements in the real world to take on a more sensual grace. Just as her dance was going to end in the fantasy and she was going to move to the young boy she loved, a loud splash brought her back to the real world. Startled she quickly spotted the dark form that had fallen into the water and immediately made for her clothes. Snatching them up, she ran back to camp but not before stopping long enough to get dressed. As she ran, she wondered if it was just her imagination at play, as she could have sworn the voice was Naruto's as it called for her to wait.
"I'm telling you I saw a water nymph last night," A black haired Naruto shouted.
"And I'm telling you it's not possible," Jiraiya replied to his student.
Crossing his arms Naruto said, "Oh yeah, why's that?"
"Because if there was a beautiful woman dancing around naked. My highly tuned senses would have detected it."
"You mean pervy senses," Naruto said following behind his teacher.
"Exactly, and since they didn't, I refuse to believe anything other than what you saw was an illusion. Probably brought about from hitting your head when you fell from the top of the waterfall," Jiraiya said. Secure in the belief his keen senses would never have allowed him to miss the highly incredible scene Naruto had described upon waking up that morning. He was already thinking on how he could incorporate it into his next book. Perhaps, he could write it as love scene that would leave the main character guessing as to whether or not it had been a dream. Pulling his note pad out, he began scribbling into it flushing the idea out while giggling perversely.
Sighing as Jiraiya once again began to zone out in favor of his perverted books Naruto stopped when he noticed they were on the road heading back into Earth Country. Having a bad feeling he asked, "Why are we heading back to Iwa?"
Sliding the notepad back into his pocket Jiraiya said, "We still have to talk to the other Jinchuriki."
"Oh no," Naruto replied stopping on the road, "Wasn't me almost getting flash steamed once, enough of a reason not to go back. I mean that Han guy was a full on nut job. He chased us all the way to the border."
"I admit the first jinchuriki's response caught me by surprise," Jiraiya said. "But everything I heard about this Roshi indicates him to be calm in character. I'm sure he'll hear us out."
"I don't know," Naruto replied not entirely convinced, "I still don't understand that Han bastard. How can he have been such an Iwa fanatic but at the same time spot all that stuff about hating humanity?"
"I'm afraid it probably has to do with both his status as a jinchuriki and being the son of the Fourth Tsuchikage," Jiraiya answered while spotting a traveling station. Seeing that Naruto was going to begin hounding him with questions, he decided to stop for a minute taking a seat.
Naruto sat in front of him his questioning gaze on him so Jiraiya said, "You see the Fourth Tsuchikage was the man that instigated the Third Great Shinobi War with Konoha by attacking our allies the Waterfall Country. In the beginning the war was going quite well for them, but Minato Namikaze, the man who would become the Fourth Hokage, almost single handedly turned the tide of the war in Konoha's favor. He also killed the Fourth Tsuchikage in battle ending the war."
Naruto wide eyed at hearing the exploits of his childhood hero said, "Is that why he was chosen to be the Fourth Hokage?"
"Nope," Jiraiya said causing Naruto to look at him in surprise. "It merely showed he had the strength to be Hokage. The reason he was chosen was because of his love for his village and its people."
"But why would the people of Iwagakure hate Han if he was the son of a Kage?"
Jiraiya said, "Because as a result of their hate and fear, people often direct their anger to the nearest thing they can when deprived of the actual focus for that anger," and then thought to himself, "Kami knows you are a perfect example of that, Naruto."
"That's stupid," Naruto said, "It wasn't his fault his dad picked a fight with Konoha."
"True, but he suffers for it regardless," Jiraiya said. "That's the problem with hatred it doesn't need to be experienced by the next generation merely passed on through the examples set by the previous one. Take Earth Country for example. Did you notice how there wasn't a single blonde child or adult in the entire region?"
"Not really," Naruto said but added, "But now that you mention it, yeah."
"That's due solely to the reputation of the Fourth Hokage. Despite the war being over, for well past a decade and a half. The hatred that country harbors for not just the Fourth Hokage but Konoha as well still festers," Jiraiya said. "That's why I made you dye your hair black. In some of the more rural and violent areas that blonde head of yours can actually get you killed. Don't even get me started on the ruckus Tsunade caused during her travels when she entered the country."
"You could have just told me then," Naruto said pouting, remembering how Jiraiya had forcibly dyed his hair when he had given him trouble.
"I didn't feel like explaining it then," Jiraiya said nonchalantly.
"So what can we do to heal that hatred?" Naruto asked.
"Don't know," Jiraiya replied looking up at the sky before focusing on Naruto, "But I believe if I don't find the answer that as my apprentice you will."
Naruto gave a smile that the bandages around his face couldn't hide saying, "You bet," causing Jiraiya to laugh.
Getting back up to continue their journey Jiraiya thought, "He's turned out just like you both hoped Minato, Kushina. I'm sure he'll find the answers that the previous generation missed."
Hinata was in a pleasant mood despite her scare the previous night. Kiba was ahead of them sulking due to his finding out that Hinata had entered the shinobi pool. He had heard a rumor that a spot opened up on Team Eight and had immediately thought it was Ami so had applied for it. He had told the pair unable to keep it hidden any longer, but had been immediately disappointed when Hinata had set him straight.
Despite his sulking, Hinata knew he could understand her reason. So knew he wouldn't be to upset that the three of them were not a team. Kiba suddenly took off a short distance before stopping and looking back said, "Hey guys check this out."
Hinata quickly joined him but Shino took his time. Looking over the valley Kiba said, "Wow this place is awesome."
"Indeed it's a veritable paradise for insects of all kinds," Shino supplied.
"Not to question your ancestors," Kiba said trying to phrase his comment as respectfully as possible, "But if they were the ones that relocated the beetle why would they place it so near the Waterfall border? You know how nervous they get at having their territory crossed into. Even by their allies."
"Because Kiba, even a creature as small as an insect can have tremendous effect on its environment if all the needs of it aren't considered," Shino said his voice tinged with disapproval at his friends underestimating the importance of insects. "This valley was the only suitable place that they could be located too. Unfortunately, nature doesn't consider borders when choosing what creatures need to survive and thrive."
Leaning towards Hinata, Kiba said, "I think I'm going to stop talking to him about bugs."
Giggling Hinata replied, "It would probably be for the best." Turning her attention to Shino she asked, "How do you wish to proceed?"
"I believe it would be best if we split up," Shino said making his teammates a little uncomfortable. Remarking on that he asked, "Does that plan not meet with your approval?"
"I guess it's okay," Hinata said after a minute echoing Kiba's own opinion, "Are you sure that others will not be looking for the beetle since it has such a specific mating period."
"I honestly had not considered that," Shino said surprised, "However, I believe if such a threat does exist we will be more than capable of meeting it and more to the point a conflict will probably only happen after we find the beetle."
Both his teammates nodded in recognition of his point, so after setting a meeting time to report their findings the three of them split up. As he moved to where the beetles should be on his own. And having given his teammates an accurate although misleading idea of where to search. Not for the first time regretted taking his friends. For all his mild rebukes about Kiba underestimating insects he had been the one who had done the most severe bit of taking his friends abilities too lightly. He supposed he shouldn't have been surprised as neither Hinata nor Kiba were fools and he suspected it was only their trust in him that prevented them from questioning the mission more thoroughly. For instance, he had wanted to take his time because he was fairly certain as well that it would rain. The rain would have meant a greater chance of failure true, but that was what he was truly aiming for, in a manner of speaking.
When his father had come to him with the barest details for the mission he had been quite specific on how it should appear when it was all over. Strangely enough his own teammates were proving to be the biggest hindrance to his successful completion of his father's mission and while lying to his friends bothered him. His father assured him it was for the greater good of the hive that was Konoha, measured against that it was a burden he would have to bear.
He stopped suddenly as the beetles he had been sending out around him reported a presence that wasn't visible. Marking the person watching him with a female he began walking away from where his father told him to head fearing the mission had just gotten a lot harder.
A figure landed near two others that were hiding due to their jutsu's ability to bend light around them. Dropping the jutsu the female leader of the group asked, "Well Kurobachi?"
"Those brats are definitely from Konoha," the slightly shorter and dark haired man replied in a gruff voice. "The one in the white jacket and shades is an Aburame unless I miss my guess."
"Damn they are here for the Bikouchuu," the thinner and taller blonde haired man replied. Despite being an Iwa-nin he refused to submit to pressure from those around him to dye his long hair.
"Calm down Jibachi," the woman said to her younger brother. "The brats only arrived today. They'd have to be extremely lucky to stumble across one so soon, considering we have spent the last week searching."
"Perhaps you should consider the situation more clearly Suzumebachi," Jibachi said sounding extremely nervous to his two sibling which surprised them. "Technically we are on Konoha's side of the border and even though we have removed our headbands if that is an Aburame he'd have to be extremely dense not to recognize our jutsu."
Suzumebachi eyed her brother warily wondering why he had been getting more and more nervous as the week had gone by. Pushing her suspicions to the side confident it stemmed from their shared desire to find their grandfather's scrolls and to raise the Kamizuru Clan back to the level of prominence that it had achieved under his rule as the First Tsuchikage. It was only a rumor true, but they had come to believe that the scroll housed many of the clan's most potent techniques.
Taking that into account she said as soothing as she could, "We all have a lot riding on this Jibachi don't forget that. However these brats may be a god send."
"How so Suzumebachi?" Kurobachi asked his younger sister.
"Well if the truth about how these beetles ended up here in the first place is true. Then it stands to reason that the Aburame may possess some information about the beetles that we do not."
"I get it," Jibachi said suddenly, "We let those brats lead us right to them and then deprive them of it."
"A cunning plan, sister," Kurobachi said not as enthused but his hope for the clan's future restored slightly.
"Now all we do is wait, and let those Konoha fools lead us right to our prize," Suzumebachi said with a grin that she noted was returned more maliciously on her younger brother Jibachi's face.
Kiba was disappointed with how their first day had gone. Granted a mission to hunt for a stupid bug wasn't exactly what he was hoping for, but after being laid up in a hospital for almost a month any type of mission was better than nothing. Therefore, he had applied himself one hundred percent only to come up with squat. Settling in for the night he hoped tomorrow would be better as he would really hate for his first mission out the gate to end in failure.
Closing his eyes. He opened them suddenly as the wind shifted and for a moment detected several unfamiliar scents that suddenly disappeared. Akamaru nudged his arm telling Kiba that he had smelled them too. Getting up as casual as he could make it look, he walked over to Shino who was on watch and sat down.
"Can't sleep Kiba?" the Aburame asked.
"Guess I'm still a little jacked since it's my first mission since Sasuke defected," Kiba said in a way that made Shino aware he wasn't really talking about his previous mission.
"Why don't you tell me about it," Shino replied but actually meaning, "Tell me what you sensed."
"Well we had to fight our way past three tough Sound-nin," Kiba said causing Shino to nod his head at the number of scents Kiba had picked up.
"I was aware of the details," Shino replied indicating he had known about the people watching them.
"Man, you should have told me. You know how I hate telling a story if the person already knows all of the details about it," Kiba said a little upset which meant simply, "You should have told me."
"Sorry, didn't want to cut you off, but if it is any consolation. I heard most of the details from Hinata," Shino said. To which Kiba took as, "We were being watched to closely to clue you in, and Hinata is already aware. "
"Well I guess I should get some sleep then."
"That would be wise Kiba as I'm sure tomorrow will be a busy day," Shino replied while still looking into the fire.
Kiba got up and returned to his sleeping bag, leaving Shino to wonder how he would complete his mission if they were being watched.
As the night went on the three Kamizuru siblings began to split up the chore of watching the sleeping Konoha team. Jibachi was on watch but was doing a poor job as he began to nod off. He opened his eyes suddenly feeling as if he had missed something as he had heard a slight buzzing sound but looking around saw the Aburame still looking into the fire. Scoffing to himself, at how pathetic the Leaf Village was, he didn't notice a metal wire wrap around him until it was too late.
As the wire pulled taunt he flew back against a tree unable to move. Stepping out from the bushes was a man with long brown hair and with red war paint running across his face and chin. He wore standard clothes with a stocking hat that had a metal face plate across the front but no symbol for what village he hailed from. Strapped to his back was an umbrella that he used in combat.
Upon spotting the man Jibachi's eyes widened in fright. Spotting the fear and delighting in it the leader of the Shinobazu said, "Jibachi, you almost don't look happy to see us."
"Of course I am, Shura," Jibachi said trying to sound calm but failing, "It's just I'm surprised that's all."
"Ah, I was afraid that you were having second thoughts about our deal," Shura said moving his hand to indicate that his fellow Ninja Dropout Monju could release his wires. Once Jibachi was free Shura said, "Then perhaps you can tell me. What is taking so damn long? When you approached us with this opportunity you said it would be a piece of cake. I have yet to receive my cake Jibachi and I'm getting tired of waiting."
"I'm sorry, but this beetle is proving to be more elusive than I first imagined," Jibachi replied turning towards the distant fire of the Konoha-nin. "However that Konoha-nin is an Aburame and he'll lead us right to them. Please just have a little more patience."
"You're lucky I like you Jibachi otherwise I would have killed you already for wasting our time. Just pray whatever is in your Grandfather's scrolls is worth as much as you claim," Shura said before taking off, his partner Monju right behind him.
As they returned to their camp, at the edge of the valley, the light blue haired man in a purple tank top asked, "Are you sure this is a wise idea Shura? Lately Gantetsu has been acting kind of funny and leaving him alone with our hard earned treasure leaves a bad taste in my mouth."
"Question me again, Monju and you'll be lucky to be able to taste anything," the leader of the Shinobazu said darkly. "How often does a group like ours get the opportunity to get his hands on a scroll that belonged to a Kage? I can't even imagine the power of the techniques it will hold. Not to mention the possible value of it in ryo."
Not entirely convinced, but knowing better than to argue with his fellow Ninja Dropout and followed behind his leader to join the third member Toki in waiting for Jibachi's sign to attack.
Shino appeared much more relaxed, Hinata noted despite the rain which meant they were in danger of failing their mission. From this point on, they only had roughly twenty-four hours before the beetles would lay their eggs and they would be useless as trackers. Furthermore, the three shinobi she had spotted tailing them would also be getting more desperate and if Hinata or one of her teammates found one they would undoubtedly attack. Redoubling her efforts she only hoped the beetles proved to be worth the coming difficulties they were bound to face.
Everything was going perfect as far as Shino was concerned. Luckily for him, last night he had been able to slip away leaving an Insect Clone in his place to head to the secret mating spot of the Bikouchuu. It had been easy to find since the Aburame that had brought the beetles to this area had marked it using a seal that when activated gave off the scent of a female parasitic beetle that his body housed. Walking into the dark cave had been incredible, at least for him, as there had been literally thousands of beetles. Collecting several of the recently mated females, he placed them into a container and then sealed the container in a special scroll his father had provided. He had just let the container out, after making sure he could do so without being seen, as he had marked those following his team already so knew precisely where they were. Now that the beetles had felt the first rain he had resealed them into the scroll which would hold them in stasis until his return to Konoha.
However, the cave had housed another secret which had surprised Shino. Hidden among the masses of writhing beetles had been several scrolls that had bared the mark of the Kamizuru Clan. The discovery of such things in a spot last touched by the Aburame had been something of a shock to Shino. He had also sealed the scrolls up noticing they couldn't be opened due to a blood seal placed on them. However, one of the scrolls had been marked with the crest of the Aburame. Opening it he had learned that the valley had been at one time considered neutral ground between the various Ninja Clans that used insect ninjutsu and had even been created by the combined might of them to be the perfect haven for the many insects that called it home. A type of refuge so that species that were on the verge of dying out could be saved and later harvested to add to the clans abilities. The idea that the Aburame and Kamizuru had at one time been friendly was pretty hard to believe. But Shino supposed it could be possible since most of the hatred between the clans had been a result of the Third Great Ninja War in which the Kamizuru had been almost wiped out by the Aburame. However, as fascinating as that revelation had been, he still had a mission to accomplish. So he had put the scroll with the others and would show them to his father later, after his task was complete.
Now all that needed to be done was to make sure that Hinata and Kiba didn't find a beetle so the mission could be officially recognized as a failure and they'd be home free, probably, without even needing to fight their unseen guests.
But as was often the case, matters hardly ever went as plan as Kiba avoided an attack jumping from the tree to land in front of Shino holding a beetle in one of the cages he had provided for his teammates. Kiba looked triumphant despite the danger saying to Shino, "Ha and you call yourself a bug expert."
Shino found himself hard pressed not to let out a string of curses as he saw the Bikouchuu beetle moving around inside the clear plastic case.
The large squat man that had been chasing Kiba after he found it said, "We'll be taking that if you don't mind."
"Screw you man," Kiba shouted holding his case up, "This is my bug. Come and take it."
The kunoichi that had been following Shino around made her presence known saying, "Gladly," before raising her arms sending thousands of bees towards her opponents. Shino raised his own arms allowing his own Kikaichu bugs to swarm out towards the bees. As the two insects clashed it quickly became apparent that although the Kikaichu were smaller they were faster and more adept at working together quickly and efficiently ripping the bees apart. However that seemed to be exactly what Suzumebachi was expecting as the bees death released a sticky honey that immobilized Shino's insects.
Not willing to sacrifice any more of his allies Shino jumped away from the swarm and threw a smoke bomb that confused the bees before shouting to Kiba they were retreating. Kiba didn't look happy at the order but complied following behind Shino as they ran through the trees to Hinata's position.
Hinata could hear the sounds of combat nearby so activated her Byakugan and could see Kiba and Shino running to her position. Before she could take off to meet them she had to jump to the side as several bees, sporting paper bombs attached to them exploded, where she had been standing. Her attacker was still using his invisibility jutsu thinking that it kept him safe from her reprisal. He was proven wrong as she raised her hand to her mouth to shoot several fireballs at him. He was forced to dodge but had still been clipped as the cloak he wore caught fire.
Dropping the jutsu and patting the fire out Jibachi said, "I should have guessed that the Chameleon Jutsu wouldn't have fooled those eyes of yours."
Hinata didn't reply instead slipping into her Gentle Fist stance watching her opponent carefully. Focusing on her opponent she could see that unlike Shino the bees he used in his jutsu were not a part of him. Although she supposed that should have been apparent from the jutsu he had used against her. She had a hard time imagining any Aburame creating a jutsu that purposefully sacrificed the insects they used in battle. She was preparing to attack when suddenly she had to avoid a stream of flame shot from the bushes behind her. Widening her focus she could see two opponents behind her and could also see the one that was tunneling up towards her from the ground. Waiting to the last second she dodged as the one beneath her emerged from the ground, but she did so only enough to avoid getting hit. She could see the look of surprise that appeared on the man's face right before she nailed him with a kick that sent him flying towards his two fellows knocking all three into the brush.
At that moment Shino and Kiba jumped by overhead throwing several smoke bombs that covered the area allowing Hinata to disengage and follow after her teammates. A few moments later Kurobachi landed near his brother saying, "Hurry up after them. The Inuzuka has the Bikouchuu. Suzumebachi has flown on ahead using her summons to get in front of them. "
"Is that right," Shura said reemerging from the brush, "Looks like you served your purpose then."
Before Kurobachi could ask who the newcomer was, his brother plunged a knife into his back. Spinning around he asked, "Why Jibachi?"
"Why would I ever want to find that scroll to go back to the village of Iwa when I can sell it for a small fortune and live the pampered life of a Daimyo," Jibachi asked with a sneer as his brother clutched at his cloak before ripping it out of his grasp allowing him to fall over.
"Well said," Shura remarked amused, "Welcome to the Shinobazu, Jibachi. Now perhaps we should follow your late brother's advice and get on those Konoha-nin trail."
Kurobachi grabbed his brothers leg saying, "I'm not dead yet."
Pulling his leg free Jibachi said, "That's easily rectified," before walking away with Shura and Monju walking past as well. Toki however stopped near the prone Kamizuru causing Kurobachi to stare up at him. Smiling the Shinobazu member slammed the device he wore on his right arm, he used for tunneling, into him throwing up a terrific amount of dust. Not even staying long enough to see his handy work he hurried off after his fellow bandits.
Ibiki was sitting in his office the bottle of heavy liquor on his desk when a knock at his door pulled him away from his thoughts. Telling his guest to enter he was mildly surprised to see his guest was Shibi Aburame.
"What brings you down to the I.T department?" he asked having an idea.
Shibi didn't respond so Ibiki said, "You can talk freely here. I scan my office every time I enter for all known means of surveillance."
"One of the beetles I placed on Shino has returned," Shibi said, "Therefore in a few days his team should return as that means the first rainfall has occurred."
Placing his glass down, Ibiki said, "Excellent, then if everything goes according to plan, we should be able to proceed to phase two. Correct?"
"Indeed," Shibi said, "I have already secured through the black market the means necessary to begin crossbreeding a new hive."
"Good," Ibiki said, "It's a damn shame that you feel it necessary to take such steps to insure security even from members of your own clan. But that is the nature of our enemy. How long do you think it will take to complete this part of the plan?"
"Difficult to say at this point in time," Shibi answered, "I'll be able to give you an estimate after the first batch. About what we discussed at the onset of this mission."
"I haven't forgotten; if your boy pulls this off. Bring him into the loop fully."
Shibi inclined his head slightly before leaving Ibiki's office. The head of the Interrogation Department poured himself another glass. But unlike the one he had been enjoying earlier, which had been to relax after a trying day. He now drank in a small celebration. However, he quickly put it down not wanting to get carried away as there was still a lot to do. Shibi had told him even the Bikouchuu would be practically useless in picking up a scent after such a long time. The beetle also probably wouldn't have been able to get a good scent due to Kushina's few remaining possessions had been handled by a multitude of people and had been carelessly stored in some warehouse, which prevented him from using the bugs directly to find her. But the mere fact that they would be able to track the comings and goings of those inside Danzou's compound using a method the old Warhawk wasn't prepared for made Ibiki confident it would lead to the Fourth Hokage's wife.
Getting up from his desk he moved to a Shogi board and advanced another one of his pieces. There were a few pieces on the board that represented those he believed his opponent possessed. Mostly pawns as befitting his opponent. He represented the man he was planning to destroy as the Silver General. A piece able to move forward or retreat, as necessary making him a difficult opponent to nail down. Kushina was the King the piece he was aiming to capture. Ibiki firmly believed that if he could capture the king it would pretty much mean checkmate for Danzou. He also had made the woman his goal in his quest to bring down Danzou for the boy that had been protecting the Village Hidden in the Leaves since birth and deserved to be rewarded for his sacrifices. He could think of no better reward then to be reunited with his mother.