An: Thank you to the people that take the time to review. They really make my day and provide me with inspiration to continue going at my pace. So again thank you, S. o. t. A.
Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto and I'm doing this for fun not profit.
Chapter 45: The Kaima
It took another week of vigorous negotiations to finally get Kiri approved to join the Shinobi Alliance. Although Taki had yet to sign the treaty due to their leaving the village on the first day and Rain had withdrawn from the alliance some months before. Tsunade was pleased with the end results. Now it was time to come through on some of the points that they had agreed upon, most notably the instructor that would remake the Kiri Shinobi Academy.
When Tsunade had asked who Sarutobi had in mind she hadn't been surprised when he had told her his choice. The thing was she couldn't think of anyone better. Having summoned the man she made small talk with the Mizukage who was anxious to meet her future head instructor.
Prompt as she would expect, Iruka arrived fifteen minutes later saying, "You sent for me Lady Hokage."
"Yes Iruka I did. Allow for me to introduce you to the Fifth Mizukage."
Iruka bowed respectfully to the woman saying, "It is an honor Milady." Returning his attention to the Hokage he asked, "How may I be of assistance?"
"During the talks the Mizukage has requested that an instructor from the Leaf Village be sent to Kiri to overhaul their curriculum. You were the one we chose." However a slight grimace appeared on Iruka's face prompting the Hokage to ask, "Is that a problem?"
"No…no milady, well it's just I recently started a relationship and this sounds like it is a long term mission."
"At least until the first batch of students graduate," Tsunade said before adding, "Although we plan for the first couple of years to be rather accelerated. So it will probably be a two year course until they get enough Shinobi."
Mei taking over said, "Please, Mr. Umino. You have come highly recommended by both your current and previous Hokages. I consider this to be vital to the future relations between our two villages."
Rubbing the back of his head in embarrassment of the praise Iruka said, "I'm just a chunin. Surely this task isn't that…"
"Don't sell yourself short, Iruka," Tsunade said. "Mei's idea is brilliant. You must remember there is a lot of bad history between our two villages. By having an upcoming generation learn from a Leaf Instructor. She is hoping to instill a sense of friendship between Mist and the Leaf, as many students often remember their academy teachers fondly."
Smiling Mei continued, "I take it the person you are seeing is a shinobi?"
"Yes, Anko Mitarashi to be exact," Iruka said smiling at the thought of his girlfriend.
"Well then it shouldn't be a problem as the Hokage and I have worked out a deal where Leaf Shinobi will be picking up our excess missions. Therefore she could stay in the village under this program."
"Thank you," Iruka said, "What will my duties be?"
"You are to restructure the academy from the ground up. The new semester starts in three months so I hope you will be able to begin right away."
"Yes of course Milady," Iruka said. "I trust you have the guidelines that you wish for the new program to follow?"
"Yes, I'll have them sent to you right away."
Iruka nodded before saying, "I'll get right on it. But may I ask a favor?"
The Mizukage nodded so he said, "Anko is currently out of town on a mission. I'll give you an outline of what I would hope to accomplish tomorrow. But would it be acceptable if I work out the program in more detail while assisting her in Sea Country."
Mei turned to Tsunade who nodded so answered, "Of course, I look forward to seeing what you come up with," before leaving the room.
Smiling Tsunade asked, "Hoping to break the news early?"
"That and hoping to make sure she hears of it from me first," Iruka said slightly worried about how Anko will handle the news. Bowing to his leader he left the office to head to his bank to make a rather large withdrawal hoping to bring as many dumplings as he could carry with him when he broke the news.
Temari dropped the heavy bucket after helping Yoshino take care of the deer. She was truly enjoying her time at the Nara household. Even the choirs, which Yoshino had told her she didn't need to help out with but Temari had insisted, helped instill a sense of normalcy that her own upbringing had lacked. Wiping the sweat from her brow she was surprised to hear, "Do the people you are staying with not know you are the daughter of a Kage?"
Recognizing the voice she turned with a grin saying, "They know. I just like helping out. It is good to see you Baki-sensei." Noticing a dark circle under his visible eye she asked worriedly, "Is everything alright you look like you've been up for days?"
"I'm fine," Baki said, "It merely has been a long and tiresome week as I'm sure you can imagine."
"I bet," Temari replied, "Gaara stopped by earlier and said he found politics to be rather annoying. But I think most of his ire was directed towards the Kusa group."
"I imagine so, as they fought Kiri on almost every issue. Did he say anything else about the experience?"
"Not much, only that he was glad to be of assistance. Why?"
"Well we have decided on a new Kazekage," Baki said with a proud smile which widened as Temari's surprise registered on her face. But he began chuckling when Temari's jaw dropped when she realized who it was.
But she quickly smiled saying, "That's excellent. But why didn't he tell me?"
"He doesn't know yet, hence my visit," Baki said. "We will be telling him once we arrive in Suna. Since our delegation is leaving tomorrow I thought it would be prudent if you return home."
"Of course, but the Hokage…"
"…is already aware. She has even given you permission to take along a traveling companion."
Temari smiled, before directing her gaze to the Nara currently lying in the middle of the field sleeping. "We'll see you there," Temari said excitedly before heading into the Nara house to clean up for the journey. She would also casually mention to Yoshino that she would ask Shikamaru to accompany her. Positive that the older woman would just so happen to be near when she asked the boy herself so when he inevitably replied it was too troublesome the older woman could brow beat him into going.
Baki smiled for a moment before it faded once his student had entered the house. The truth was that being in Konoha had stirred up a great deal of guilt over the death of the jounin he had killed. Although he had only been doing his duty, learning that he had been helping Orochimaru had stung. While he had been in the village he had taken a moment to stop by the Memorial Stone.
It was there that he had run into a purple haired woman caring flowers as he was leaving. Although she was quite beautiful her eyes appeared baggy and her hair unkempt. He had stopped a moment inclining his head in greeting which had prompted the woman to narrow her eyes before she asked, "What are you doing here scum?"
"Merely paying my respects," he had said calmly.
The woman had pushed by him slamming her shoulder into his. He accepted that she had a reason to be angry at his presence there so let the insult pass. However as he was walking away he heard the woman say, "I swear Hayate, one day I'll find your killer and make him pay."
That had stopped Baki, but only for a moment which he hoped the woman didn't notice. He breathed a little easier when he noticed that she seemed oblivious to the world as she grieved. However from that night on the guilt that had prompted him to build the shrine to the Leaf proctor he had killed had intensified. He had almost gone looking for the woman on several occasions to admit he had killed Hayate, but with the talks occurring he knew that a death, either his or hers would prove catastrophic and possible edge Kohona and Suna towards war when they were hoping for peace.
As he walked away from the Nara compound expecting another sleepless night, he only hoped that the ghost that haunted him would fade once he returned to Suna.
It had been a week since they had arrived in Sea Country and there still had been no sign of the creature much to Anko and Kin's disappointment. The reason for the lack of sightings was because of the horrendous losses so shipping had slowed to a halt. With no new ships setting sail there was almost no chance of finding the creature. Even searches of the other islands that made up Sea Country yielded no results. Nor did the old compound on Jiro Island where Orochimaru had branded Anko with her curse mark.
Team Anko was currently sitting in front of their hotel, The White Chrysanthemum. It was located in the largest port city on Haha Island which was the main island of the several that made up Sea Country. Looking from the table the four women were sitting around they could see all the ships sitting in the harbor for fear of the creature that was attacking anything that left. Although the boat they had ridden to the island had left unharmed but that was probably due to it not picking up any cargo for the return trip.
What made Team Anko's job doubly hard were all the differing accounts from those who had survived the creatures' wrath. A sailor on a gold ship which was to send a payment to its neighbor Water Country had reported that his ship had been attacked by a human like fish creature that had sunk the ship after all the sailors had made it to the life boats. However a sailor on another ship that had carried some special plants bound for Fire Country had claimed that the creature that attacked his ship had been almost thirty feet long and looked like a massive fish with legs.
Faced with two differing accounts that had been repeated by the various sailors they talked too. Team Anko was at a loss on to how to deal with the problem. "Gah..." Anko said venting her frustration as she ran her hand back and forth through her hair. "How the hell are we supposed to find this thing if they won't send any ships out? No ships will head out because of the monster, but the monster won't come out because there are no ships." She then crossed her arms in front of her on the table and laid her head on them.
"Maybe we should hire a ship to take us out," Kin suggested hoping to solve the problem soon so she could go see Haku. Especially since if the mission took too long the Chunin Exams in another few months would be beginning and she may miss her chance.
"It won't do any good," Tayuya said sipping her drink, "Ships have gone out before looking for the creature, but it only attacks if they are caring valuable cargo. It might come to us if the ship we were on had something it wanted but…"
"You make it sound like the creature is intelligent," Sasame said, "Don't forget that the large creature sunk lots of ships whose cargo they carried would be ruined by sea water."
"Granted," Tayuya said, "But the human-sized one only has ever attacked ships carrying gold."
"So…" Sasame said.
"So fucking gold doesn't care if it gets wet or not," Tayuya replied.
"Are you suggesting that this is all for the gold shipments bound for the Water Country's Daimyo?" Anko asked looking up from her arms.
"It seems reasonable," Tayuya said.
"Except all shipping has stopped," Kin said poking a hole in Tayuya theory.
"Actually, Sea Country is merely condensing the weekly shipments into one large one," a male voice said from behind Anko drawing all the women's attention. But especially Anko's who spun around exclaiming, "Iruka," as she launched herself from her chair and latching her arms around his neck causing him to spin around.
Coming to a stop he said, "Hey Anko…," but was silenced by a kiss from her.
Pulling back she asked, "What are you doing here?"
Looking a mixture of bashful and afraid he said, "Can I talk to you about that in private?"
A worried look appeared on Anko's face but she nodded. The couple moved to sit at a nearby table to talk. While Iruka began explaining why he was there Anko's students began straining to hear what the pair was saying. However that proved to be unnecessary when Anko shouted, "What…"
Iruka's reply was hard to hear but it became clear what they were talking about when Anko said loudly, "Since when did Konoha begin exporting its men?"
"Anko it isn't like that," Iruka said trying to calm his girlfriend down.
"It certainly sounds like it," Anko said crossing her arms in front of her, "You come all the way here to tell me you're being transferred to Kiri for the next two years as some part of deal they reached during the talks."
"Well I guess if you put it like that it sort of sounds like it," Iruka said. "But it is an important mission to help build a bridge of friendship between our two villages."
"I don't see the Mizukage giving up her man," Anko said with a small pout turning away from him.
"Well he isn't exactly a teacher now, is he?" Iruka said reaching for a scroll he had prepared for the current conversation. "Besides the Mizukage will be accepting teams from Konoha to help ease the mission load the village has. Your team could stay in Kiri as a part of that program and get a leg up on the next Chunin Exam."
Iruka could see Anko turn a little so with a smile pulled the scroll out. When Anko noticed that Iruka was smiling at her she turned away again. She heard a poof sound and then was greeted by the familiar smell of her favorite snack and most likely from her favorite shop in Konoha. Unable to resist the temptation she turned and was greeted by a plate full of dumplings.
Mouth watering she reached for one but Iruka pulled the plate back out of her reach. She glared at him for a moment but couldn't muster any of the anger she had felt moment before so said, "I trust you brought the forms necessary for me to request a position in Kiri."
"That and…" Iruka said sliding the plate forward, "A couple tickets for a cruise to Kiri when we leave."
Anko picked up the plate looking like a happy child saying, "It's a good thing you're so cute."
Her three girls sweat dropped watching their sensei's sudden shift in mood figuring it was due to her being bribed by her favorite snack. "How fucking pathetic," Tayuya said.
"I think it's kind of cute," Sasame said, "He knew that what he was going to say would upset her so was prepared."
Kin nodded saying to her teacher, "I take it we aren't going to need to dispose of his body right Anko-sensei?"
"Nah, I think I'll keep him around for a while," Anko replied already through half the plate. Returning to the table with her students Anko had to move her plate out of Tayuya's grasp when she made a play for one of her dumplings. Iruka chuckled before pulling the scroll out and unsealing another plate which he put in the center of the table. He had to pull his hand back quickly as all three girls began snatching the treats much to his amusement.
"I take it you are here to help us with this mission then," Anko said having finished the last dumpling on her plate and taking the last two from the plate on the table.
"Yes," Iruka said, "On my way here I stopped by the governor's office to inform him that we would be operating here with Kiri's permission. He told me that at the end of the week they would be sending a large fleet to Water Country with enough gold for the month."
"Why does Sea Country send gold to the Daimyo of Water Country?" Sasame asked.
Licking her fingers Tayuya said, "Water Country provides protection to Sea Country in the form of its Navy. Without that protection this region would probably be filled with pirates."
"Exactly, which is why they need to chance sending a fleet," Iruka said.
"Still it's rather stupid putting all their eggs in one basket," Kin said.
"I doubt they are," Anko chimed in.
"You're right," Iruka said leaning back in his seat, "They will be sending out three fleets but only one will be carrying the gold."
"That still is a stupid plan," Tayuya said, "If the creature is smart enough to know the difference between cargos then it will be smart enough to know which boat is carrying the gold."
"How do you figure that?" Iruka asked.
"By how much of the ship is submerged," Tayuya replied. "A ship loaded down with gold will have more of its hull submerged than one that doesn't."
"Very clever," Iruka complimented the red-head causing her to blush.
Anko noticing her student's red cheeks said, "Don't be getting any ideas Red. He's taken."
Tayuya began stuttering so Iruka said, "We should tell the Governor to load down the ships not carrying gold with lead that should confuse the creature if it uses how deep the hull is submerged to tell which ships to attack."
Pouting that Iruka was letting Tayuya off the hook she said, "You're no fun," before turning serious and saying, "What if pirates are behind this?"
"What do you mean? Like it's some sort of big scam," Kin asked.
"It's a rather convoluted plan," Iruka said "Not to mention that I doubt many pirate groups would have the resources to get to the gold they already sent to the bottom."
"True, but maybe they are thinking big picture," Anko replied, "The amount they sunk would pale in comparision to what they could take if Kiri stopped patrolling the area."
"Are we saying that Orochimaru isn't behind this?" Sasame asked. "What about those visions you had of a creature in a tank? You said it matched the description of the one that would appear on the ships' decks."
"Mm-hmmm," Anko hummed her agreement before saying, "Orochimaru being behind this does make more sense than pirates."
"It doesn't matter," Kin suddenly said, "If pirates or Orochimaru are behind it then they haft to have eyes on the docks. If we find the people watching the dock, they'll lead us right to whoever is behind the attacks."
Anko agreed saying, "Alright we'll take shifts watching the dock. If you spot anything suspicious then call in the reinforcements and we'll get to the bottom of this."
Sakura was tired having long since mastered the early phases of her medical training she was now pulling shifts at the hospital. Having just finished one she was surprised at how often normally competent shinobi hurt themselves just training. She guessed it was merely the price that had to be paid to increase ones skill having had to visit the infirmary on more than one occasion herself.
A part of Sakura wanted to simply go home and wash away the day's grim, before climbing into bed. However she was missing Naruto a little more than usual so decided to head to Ichiraku. Ordering a bowl of ramen she wondered how Naruto was doing in his training. But soon found her thoughts drifting to a matter that had been bothering her of late and that was the CRA act. The truth was she didn't know how to feel about it, especially if the Hyuuga that had said the Uzumaki had been granted Clan status but had never had it implemented was telling the truth. As that would make Naruto the only male heir of the Uzumaki and while right now he might not be viewed as the most eligible bachelor in Konoha. Sakura didn't harbor any doubts that it would remain that way. Especially after seeing the dedication that Koyuki had put in the end of her new Princess Gale movie.
It had basically said, "In honor of my hero," before flashing to the picture of the bandaged Naruto being kissed on the cheek by the princess slash actor. That was what worried her as Naruto traveled which was whether or not he was out there charming nobles and other woman who would flock to Konoha should he invoke the CRA. Where would she fit into the hierarchy of women, would she even be chosen? She was no Koyuki after all.
The only thing that brought her a little comfort was that Hinata seemed to be as worried as her. The last letter they had received also added fuel to their doubts as he had talked about the girl he had met Fū. Although he had described her as a new friend both Hinata and her had the feeling that he had not told them all that had happened. Needless to say both girls had been more than a little relieved when he had moved on.
She wondered why when she had been chasing Sasuke she had never heard about the CRA or if she had, had she blown it off. The only reason she came up with was because back then she had always thought of it as a fairy tale where she would be chosen against all odds. But with Naruto it was different and she was really afraid of losing him. Especially to some harlot that came out of nowhere to seduce him.
Finishing her bowl, Sakura decided to call it a night and headed to her apartment. Entering she found that Hinata had already turned in for the night but what caught her attention was a letter addressed to her from Naruto. Grabbing it she forgot all about her previous fears as she began to read it. Because despite her previous concerns she doubted Naruto was the type to merely select women to populate a clan but would want to have some connection to them. However if Jiraiya changed that about him she promised herself that she would go Tsunade on his ass.
Shikamaru was sitting on the roof of the residence that Temari lived at with her two siblings in Suna. Apparently being the child of a former Kage and brother to the new one had its perks as it was a mansion. But it had a good view of the sky so he was content. The celebration of Gaara's selection was still going full force down below, but he had retired up here to be alone. Well alone was perhaps too strong of a word, in truth he was hoping she decided to come up here as well. But he figured it would still be awhile as she mingled with her family and friends.
He didn't know when he had begun to actually crave Temari's company but he had. So much so that when she had asked him to go to Suna with her, he had actually agreed. Something which must have surprised his mother, as she had fallen into the room obviously eavesdropping on the two of them. The trip to Suna had been rather a pain as they had run almost the entire way, but seeing Temari's joy had made it worth it when Gaara's party had arrived a day later taking a more leisurely pace.
Gaara was obviously surprised to see almost the entire village gathered at the entrance upon his arrival. The Council had then walked up to the stoic boy and informed him that from that moment on he was going to be Kazekage. Although Shikamaru was sure that the look on Gaara's face would have been something to see, he had been staring at Temari who had tears in her eyes. When she noticed he was looking at her. Temari had quickly wiped them, yet instead of being embarrassed had smiled at him. Shikamaru couldn't explain why he did it but had grabbed her hand giving it a squeeze. Temari had been almost as surprised as him by the small sign of affection but didn't let go.
The party that was currently going on within the house had been all Temari's doing. He had stayed long enough not to appear rude but had eventually decided to leave since Temari was busy catching up with her friends. Closing his eyes and basking in the few remaining rays of sunlight before it disappeared for the night. A shadow appearing over his face made him open his eyes to see that Temari had joined him.
Kneeling next his head she asked, "Is this really the image you want to send to the rest of Suna, that Konoha's chunin are slackers always looking for their next nap?"
"Well it beats being downstairs looking silly standing off by myself," Shikamaru said sitting up.
"Thank you for coming," Temari said a light tint coloring her cheeks.
"Well I have the feeling that if I didn't my mom would have made my life a living hell," Shikamaru said causing Temari to scowl a little before he added, "But despite how troublesome it was to run here I'm glad I came. So why did you want me to come?"
"For a man who's so smart, you can be pretty dumb sometimes," Temari said leaning in and kissing his cheek.
She pulled back and her eyes closed slightly before leaning in for what appeared to be another kiss except this time on the lips but she stopped with her eyes going wide when she heard, "Temari…"
Turning behind her she said, "Gaara, what are you doing up here?"
"I wanted to thank you again," her brother replied.
Getting up Temari said cheerfully, "You don't need to thank me. This is what families do for one another."
Gaara inclined his head before saying, "Also, Baki said he needed to speak to you."
Temari sent one last look to Shikamaru before saying, "Okay," and heading downstairs.
Left alone on the roof, Shikamaru felt trapped as Gaara stood there staring at him for what seemed like forever. Before he turned to follow his elder sister he said, "It would appear that my sister has feelings for you."
"Yeah…"
"If you hurt her they'll never find your body," Gaara said before entering the doorway that led down.
Laying his head back down Shikamaru asked the nighttime sky, "Why is my life filled with troublesome women?"
A heavy storm was pounding the inn when Anko awoke due to another nightmare. Although they had happened in the past every now and then, they had faded for the most part after Jiraiya had removed her Curse Mark. She figured being near the compound were Orochimaru had given it to her in the first place was affecting her. She threw on a robe and left her room to go get a glass of milk. As she made her way to the inns kitchen she noticed that the light in Iruka's room was still on.
Knocking, she heard footsteps approach before the door opened partly so Iruka could peek out. Seeing Anko he opened it the rest of the way asking, "Is everything alright?"
"Can't sleep," she said still a little shaky due to her nightmare, "Mind if I come in here for a while?"
"Not at all," he answered stepping to the side to let her in. After Anko made herself comfortable on his bed he asked, "Do you want to talk about it?"
"Not really," Anko replied. Seeing the look of concern that appeared on his face she said, "It's just I've talked to councilors and any other number of people about it already."
"I understand," Iruka said moving to the desk he was working at, "But just know that I'll be here to listen if you ever feel like it."
Curious as to what Iruka was doing Anko pulled one of her knees up to her chest before asking, "What are you working on so late?"
Iruka turned to answer, but due to how Anko was holding her leg caught a glimpse of her panties. Spinning back around to busy himself with his work he said, "I have to retool the entire Kiri academy's curriculum, so I have to study a great deal of Kiri's history and other subjects to get my plan ready in time for the start of the new semester."
Anko wondered why Iruka had turned away from her so quickly till she realized what he had seen. Grinning she got up and wrapped her arms around him from behind before asking, "Did you like what you saw?"
"No…" Iruka quickly responded but just as fast said, "Yes," when Anko frowned before just trailing off.
Laughing as she let him go and moved back to the bed Anko said, "I don't mind," while moving a finger down the inside of her robe revealing more cleavage for the chunin to see.
Standing Iruka made his way to the jounin and said in a questioning voice, "Anko…"
But she silenced him with a kiss which she quickly deepened and then pulled him down onto the bed with her. After making out for a while and as Iruka moved to begin kissing her neck she felt her robe open revealing that she often slept topless.
As Anko began to let herself go, she tensed suddenly as she once more began seeing images from her past. "Iruka…please stop," she said her mood effectively killed.
"What's the matter," Iruka said stopping his ministrations and pulling back to look at her.
Anko looked away closing her robe saying, "Nothing, I'm just not ready."
"Okay," he replied laying back down.
"I'm sorry," she said noticing the tent rising from the shorts he slept in.
Noticing where she was staring he said rather bashfully, "Don't worry about it. It's nothing a quick shower wouldn't fix."
He was about to take care of his problem by the method he had described when Anko grabbed him. Sensing she needed comfort more than him, he settled in as she laid her head on his chest. After a moment she asked, "Iruka…do you…do you think I'm a good person?"
"Where's this coming from," he asked.
However Anko lifted her head from his chest to look at him and sternly said, "Please just answer the question."
"You know I do Anko," Iruka said, "Will you tell me what's bothering you?"
Laying her head back on his chest she said, "When I fought that crystal user in Sound she said that I left Orochimaru. But I'm afraid that it's a lie. That he left me and if I ever remember that day, I'll find out that he discarded me for whatever reason." Turning to look at him again she asked, "What would that say about me?"
Moving his hand to cup her cheek Iruka asked, "Why would she lie though?"
"Because that's the way he is," Anko replied leaning into Iruka's hand feeling tears at the corner of her eyes that fell as she closed them, "I don't think he cared who walked away from our fight and it would be just like him to do something like that merely to twist the knife his betrayal left in me." Her voice sounding scared and a little desperate she asked, "What does that say about me if I would have kept on serving him in spite of what he's become?"
"Anko," Iruka said his tone soft and caring. Once she opened her eyes he continued, "I know that you left him. What makes it all the more powerful is how much you respected and admired him, and despite those feelings I know you would never choose to follow him as he is now."
"Thank you," she said gratefully laying her head back down.
"If you want to know why I think you can't remember it's because you are afraid to. Have faith in yourself Anko and I'm sure you'll see I'm right." He could feel Anko nodded her head on his chest, but figured she still needed a little pick me up so reached into the nightstand near his bed and unsealed another plate of Anko's favorite treat.
Smelling the Dango she smiled saying, "How many of those plates did you bring?"
"About a paychecks worth," Iruka said smiling as she began gobbling up her treat, "I'm actually surprised it only took one to calm you down earlier."
"Well if I had known you had that many I would have held out for more," she said, some of her cheer returning.
"Don't worry they're all for you," he said and laughed when she held her hands out like a toddler looking for a treat from a parent. "I think I'll hold onto the scroll," he said again laughing as she pouted, "If I give you the scroll, you'll gorge yourself and don't forget you have to relieve Tayuya in a few hours."
"Meanie…" she said before cuddling up to Iruka and allowing his heartbeat to loll her to sleep. Iruka stayed up for a little while longer watching her sleep before he joined her.
Sasame yawned as she waited for Kin to relieve her missing the familiar weight and comfort that her headband afforded here. Since they were hoping to catch a spy they couldn't wear them so as not to alert anyone of their intentions. It was the fourth morning since Team Anko had placed the dock under surveillance and thus far nobody stood out as a possible spy for whoever was attacking the gold shipments. All she had seen was a sad looking girl wearing bandages and a basket on her back filled with diverse kinds of seafood she had caught and was trying to sell to the various merchants and restaurants that lined the seafront.
However, she apparently wasn't well liked as Sasame had seen her run out of more than one shop. Finally the girl seemed to wilt with a miserable sigh and went to a restaurant where the man who ran it bought her wares but from what Sasame could see far cheaper then what the delicacies would normally garner. With her money the girl bought some groceries quickly under the distrustful gaze of the shop owner. Lost in thought as to why the girl was so disliked she didn't notice Kin until she placed her hand on Sasame's shoulder saying teasingly, "You are lucky I'm not Anko-sensei or else you'd be in for a rude awakening."
Turning to her teammate Sasame, "Sorry," before asking, "By the way, do you know why that girl is treated so badly."
Following Sasame's gaze Kin said, "Apparently she is one of the people that has been spirited away. But she is the only one to return so the townspeople keep their distance fearing she'll bring whatever is behind the kidnappings down on them."
"How do you know all that?" Sasame asked feeling a little of intimidated that she often did around her two more experienced teammates.
"When we were first gathering information on what was happening here I heard about her. I tried to talk to her but she stonewalled me. I guess she doesn't trust anyone anymore. Can't say I blame her, what with how everyone here treats her."
Sasame watched the girl before saying, "Still she may have information on what really is going on here."
"Agreed, but she isn't talking and we can't force her to either so we're kind of at an impasse. But if you want to take a crack at her go ahead."
With Kin there to watch the docks Sasame took off after the girl. She found her a few blocks away being pelted by rocks by a group of young kids. One of the rocks caught her in the head causing her to stagger and drop her groceries.
"Hey cut it out," Sasame shouted as she ran up scaring the youngsters away. Watching the way the kids ran warily she turned to help the girl who was silently picking up her spilled groceries. Kneeling down she tried to help but the girl snatched what she was reaching for from the ground hurriedly shoving the few remaining items in her bag before standing. Trying to make a quick departure the girl hastily made her way around Sasame.
"Wait," Sasame said but the girl didn't stop so she moved in front of her holding her arms out in front of her blocking her path. "Um… my name's Sasame," she said when the girl stopped.
"I don't care," she coldly replied, "Now get out of the way." Before Sasame could reply, the girl pushed by her. Deciding on a less confrontational tactic Sasame followed behind her.
After another block the girl turned slightly exasperated asking, "What do you want?"
"Well I was hoping you'd tell me your name," Sasame said as friendly as she could.
"Isaribi, now leave me alone."
Turning on her heel Isaribi began walking away again only for Sasame to continue following her. Stopping Isaribi asked without turning, "Now what?"
"Well I was wondering if you had anymore of the seafood you were selling and was hoping to buy some," Sasame said.
Isaribi looked at her trying to gauge how truthful Sasame was being before placing her groceries down and pulling the basket off of her back. Opening it Sasame was surprised that the girl hadn't been able to offload all of the delectable and fresh seafood. Commenting on that Isaribi replied, "It's because I wouldn't accept the pittance the restaurant manager offered for these," holding up two rather large crabs that were still moving.
"How much?"
Isaribi gave her a number that although high was rather reasonable. Isaribi actually smiled as Sasame reached for her wallet without haggling with her. Once the transaction took place Isaribi grabbed her groceries and began leaving. Before Isaribi got too far away Sasame said, "Would you like to eat them with me?"
Isaribi turned obviously surprised before saying suspiciously, "What are you after?"
Deciding to tell the truth Sasame said, "I admit I wanted to ask you about your abduction, but to tell you the truth you really look like you could use a friend."
"I don't need your pity."
Shaking her head Sasame said, "It isn't pity. Trust me; I know what it's like to need somebody."
Isaribi appeared torn. Obviously she wanted to accept but was afraid that it was merely some horrible trick. But the desire for friendship won out. "Fine," she said guardedly when Sasame began heading to her hotel Isaribi asked, "Where are you going?"
"To my hotel, I'm sure we can use the kitchen there to cook the crab."
"I wouldn't be welcome…" Isaribi said before suggesting, "We can go to my home."
"Okay," Sasame said before wondering if she should check in. But since Anko hadn't made it mandatory, decided against it in favor of not making the girl uncomfortable by remaining in the city.
A short time later they arrived at a small shack on the beach outside the village and was marred in graffiti. Isaribi prepared the crab in a fire pit out front and the two talked. Although Sasame avoided the topic of her abduction she was confident that once the girl felt a little more at ease around her she would open up.
After finishing the meal Isaribi caught Sasame staring at the bandaged side of her face while she washed the pot out. Isaribi quickly turned away in response. Sasame realizing she had been staring said, "Sorry."
"Forget about it. I know how I must look."
"Is it a result of your disappearance?" Sasame asked tentatively afraid to upset her. However a small smile appeared when Isaribi mutely nodded. "Can I see?" Sasame asked.
Isaribi said, "No…don't worry soon I'll be back to normal soon."
A look of concern appeared on her face when she glanced behind Sasame. Wondering what prompted the concern Sasame looked behind her and saw two men approaching them. One of them had a muscular build and had shades covering his eyes. The other one was leaner and wore glasses.
Turning to Isaribi, she asked, "Do you know them?"
"Yes, stay here," Isaribi said getting up from where she sat and walked to the pair. Although they were far enough away that Sasame couldn't hear what they were saying but she could tell that the two were displeased with her. Isaribi tried to say something but the more muscular one backhanded her knocking her to the ground.
Sasame shot up and began running at them. The muscular man smirked preparing to do the same to her, but was caught by surprise when Sasame leapt into the air catching him in the chest with a kick which knocked him on his back. The other man responded quickly reaching for her, but pulled it back in order to prevent losing his hand as Sasame pulled the two daggers Anko bought for her. Holding them in front of her protectively she watched her two opponents.
The one she had knocked down stood saying, "No way this girl is just some civilian, Misumi."
"Obviously, tell me something I don't know Yoroi," the man called Misumi said. "Maybe Isaribi has decided to turn on us."
"I didn't know," Isaribi said, "Please just let her go. She doesn't know anything."
"You're after the gold aren't you?" Sasame said adjusting her stance.
"Hm, doesn't know anything," Yoroi said stepping into a horse stance, "So shinobi are looking into what's been going on down here. What village do you belong to?"
"I'm the one asking the questions," Sasame said preparing to attack. Running at the large man she swiped at him with the blade in her right hand. But Yoroi jumped back and Misumi attacked her from the side. Spinning her body around she ducked under the punch he threw slicing into his side with her blade. Misumi pulled back clutching his wound saying, "Watch it this bitch is quick."
"Or maybe you are just weak," Yoroi said closing the distance with the girl. When he swung at her she avoided the punch and tried to cut him with her dagger but he moved out of range of it. When she missed he quickly spun back in catching her in the cheek with the back of his closed fist. Sasame tumbled to the ground but rolled to her feet.
Grinning savagely Yoroi said, "You got moves kid. Maybe Amachi could use you."
"I like the way you think," Misumi said still clutching his side, "He can probably use her for one of his freaky experiments."
"Is he the one behind the creature that has been attacking the ships?"
"Yep, but the real kicker is that you have been chatting with his first success. Go ahead show her Isaribi."
Sasame watched Isaribi take the bandages off of her face revealing the green scales that marred her skin beneath them. "Isaribi…what have they done to you?"
"I…"
"Come on show her," Yoroi said before Isaribi could respond.
Isaribi's shoulders slumped before she channeled her chakra turning into her Kaima Form. Sasame stared at her obviously shocked but her features softened as she said, "I don't know what they did to you Isaribi but I'll find a way to help you I promise."
Isaribi looked at her in surprise before looking away saying, "Get out of here. I don't need your help."
"No, I can't allow you or these clods to continue to attack the gold shipments," Sasame said holding her daggers in front of her. "Don't worry, I'll beat them and we can take you to my village to get help." Running at Yoroi she prepared to take him out but was caught by surprise when a large stream of water hit her which caught her in the chest sending her flying into the rock wall that surrounded the hut. She banged the back of her head on the rock as she hit it and was held up against the wall by the water pressure. The last thing she saw was that the person shooting the water at her was Isaribi.
Once she was unconscious Isaribi let the water jutsu she was projecting at the girl end. Sasame fell to the floor and despite her being unable to hear her Isaribi said, "I'm sorry, but I already have made arrangements for myself."
"Alright let's go and take her with," Yoroi ordered while walking to the water.
"Okay," Isaribi replied moving to pick Sasame up to bring her to Amachi.
Hinata was making her way to the courtyard of the Hyuuga compound. As she walked she was thinking of the dedication that Koyuki had put in her last movie. While it bothered her she was relieved to how know that it bothered Sakura as well as the girl had broken the arm rest of the chair she had been sitting in at the theater. Although Ami had said that the CRA made it easier for people to get married despite clan or even village allegiances, Hinata knew that it would be just the opposite for her. There was no way that the Main Family elders would allow her to be with Naruto if the Clan Restoration Act was instituted for him as they would never willing concede to a marriage in which she was just one among many as they would see it as lowering the Hyuuga name.
She supposed she may be worrying over nothing as even though Naruto was the last of his clan it had yet to receive its place on the council. But Hinata didn't doubt that when Naruto returned the council would eventually beg him to take his place among them. Therefore, she had to win his heart before that happened.
Arriving at the courtyard she put her thoughts of how she was going to proceed on hold as she sensed a thick tension in the area. Approaching her father she asked, "What is going on Father?"
"Hideki has been pushing me to brand Hanabi with the Caged Bird mark," Hiashi said and although his face remained impassive she could sense the worry he felt.
"Why, surely the reason she hasn't received it is still valid as I'm taking missions," Hinata said looking around the courtyard as it filled with Hyuuga of both branches.
"Yes, but he has gained a considerable following among the Main Family. Enough so that he thinks that if she is branded he can arrange a marriage between Hanabi and his son."
"And should anything happen to me…"
"Exactly his grandchildren will assume leadership of the Hyuuga," Hiashi said, "With him possibly running things from behind the scenes."
"How can we stop him?" Hinata asked with concern for her sister.
"I'm afraid it is all in Hanabi's hands now," Hiashi said calmly despite his inner turmoil. "I was able to persuade the elders that it would be a waste to move Hanabi to the Branch Family in light of how skilled she is. However Hideki has issued a challenge to prove that Hanabi isn't nearly as skilled as I have made her out to be. She is to fight his son and should she lose…"
"She won't father," Hinata said confidently turning to see Hideki walking to the courtyard with his son. Upon seeing the boy Hinata asked, "How is it fair she has to fight someone older than her and by the looks of him quite a bit."
"He isn't," Neji said joining his family.
Hinata looked at him to clarify but it was her father who said, "Hideki doesn't treat his son as family but as a tool for his ascension. Therefore, the boy is trained harshly and is given many hormones to promote growth."
Hinata nodded before heading into the small building Hanabi was preparing in. "How are you Hanabi?"
"I am fine sister," Hanabi said trying to project confidence but Hinata could see the worry in her sister's eyes. Walking up to her sister she wrapped her in a hug. Hanabi at first went rigid but then melted into the warmth her sister was offering before saying, "I'm scared."
"Don't worry Hanabi. You'll triumph I'm sure."
Hanabi pulled back giving her sister a grim smile but kept quite settling for nodding her head. From outside they could hear Hideki say, "Alright Hiashi, it's time to show you that you can't flaunt our traditions any longer."
"And what tradition would that be, Hideki?" the sisters heard their father say as they made their way outside.
"Your youngest should have been branded as soon as she reached the proper age," Hideki said with a snarl.
"Just because I unlike you have not used my daughters as a means to further my goals does not me I am not aware of my duty as Clan Head."
Frowning at Hiashi mentioning how he had branded and arranged marriages for his three elder daughters for political favors within the clan he said, "Yet you don't understand that as a Main Family member you should share in the responsibly of having to insure that the hierarchy remains clear do you not."
"I see, so despite you having three daughters before your son. I am to believe you marked them with the seal to set an example of how a Main Branch Family member should act. However, I choose to believe you did so since Branch Family members that have a Main Family member as a parent can be pushed into arrange marriages." Hiashi pointedly looked where Hideki's eldest daughter was standing next to her husband a man twice her age, despite just turning seventeen. The man was also one of the Main Branch members that had forced Hiashi's hand into accepting Hideki's challenge. Ignoring the glare the man and Hideki sent his way Hiashi said, "Despite the case you have attempted to make, there is no rule that states that I am bound to bind my daughters. Instead it is a practice to ensure a clear line of ascension. My daughter Hinata will be clan head unless of course she dies or becomes Hokage as she has often professed as her goal. Hanabi shall be next in line, should either of those two occasions occur. So this is merely a farce to get your own progeny in that line of ascension. After all if Hanabi is marked she will be ineligible. I wonder who would humbly step in to fill her place."
"If you do not feel the need to brand her then why accept the challenge," Hideki asked with barely restrained contempt.
"Because I know my daughter will win and silence any of her critics," Hiashi said smiling as Hanabi looked up at him wide eyed.
"We'll see," Hideki replied.
An elder stepped forward saying, "The challenge has been issued and accepted. Both parties send forward your champion."
Hanabi gulped nervously but moved forward stopping near the elder. Hiromitsu, Hideki's son, also walked forward and despite being nearly the same age towered over her. Also unlike most Hyuuga he had the physique of a bodybuilder. Once both children were in place the Elder said, "This is a standard match. Chakra will not be used for strikes; however points will be awarded based on where on your opponent your strikes land. Remember that a strike to one of the lethal points will result in an automatic victory. Good Luck."
The Elder stepped back so both children activated their Byakugans. They watched each other for the slightest opening for several minutes. Hiromitsu believed he saw one first charging forward and despite his bulk moved incredibly fast. Hanabi took a step back and to the side, as he struck at her chest pushing his arm to the side. When she moved to counter Hiromitsu did the same to her. The two exchange blows like this several times till Hiromitsu caught Hanabi in the shoulder. Despite the blow lacking chakra he hit hard enough to spin her around. When he went to strike at her exposed back probably aiming for the lethal point of either her heart or mind. She lashed out with a kick that he nimbly dodged and hit two points on her leg.
Rolling forward to create some room, Hanabi turned to face her opponent who watched her calmly. Hanabi was scared that she couldn't beat the boy in front of her as he seemed almost inhuman. As if his whole purpose in life was to merely do his father's bidding. The idea that should she be stripped of her Main Family status, that she would in some way be forced to marry him to further Hideki's ambition made her sick to her stomach.
As lately she had been thinking of Konohamaru in a different light. At first she had liked him merely because he had been kind to her, yet lately it was becoming more and more clear that there was something different about the way she liked him. After all, she liked Udon but he had never given her the same butterfly fluttering in her stomach feeling that Konohamaru did, or the slight feeling of anger that would appear when Moegi was too close to him for her tastes. But it did help her to understand something about her sister as she felt she finally understood why Hinata liked the color orange so much. It was because of Konohamaru's boss, and the special feelings that Hinata possessed for him. Those feelings were also what gave her strength, not the color, which she felt silly about now for believing.
Her will to win hardening Hanabi straightened her stance feeling the fear she had felt moments earlier fading as she vowed to herself to win so that she would be free to pursue who she wished. Her opponent seemed to sense her emotional shift but gave no indication it worried him. She watched for an opening but his stance was almost perfect, she didn't doubt that her cousin Neji may have a difficult time with the boy in front of her, although she was positive he would win in the end. Figuring if she was going to win she would need to go on the offensive Hanabi rushed in.
Hiromitsu prepared himself for her charge and looked like he had gauged her timing fairly accurately so that he would be able to turn her own attack against her. Well he was in for a surprise as she channeled chakra into her legs increasing her speed.
"Where did she learn that?" Neji asked watching the fight with his Byakugan active.
"I have an idea," Hiashi said with a tight smile guessing that the time his youngest daughter was spending with Sarutobi's grandson was having a similar affect on her as Naruto had on Hinata. Sparing a moment to look at Hinata, he wondered if soon Hanabi would be sporting yellow and blue as her new favorite colors since it seemed to be the young Sarutobi's.
Hanabi reached her opponent quicker than he had expected which was highlighted by his slight widening of his eyes. Hanabi made a mental note to thank Konohamaru for all the lessons that he was giving her. He had taught her tree walking much as Naruto had taught him. That was another thing that she was grateful to Konohamaru for and that was when he learned why she couldn't attend the academy he had taken it upon himself to teach her all the stuff she had missed.
Striking out with a quick strike to her opponent's stomach he was forced to block which in a Jyuuken fight was a huge mistake. Hanabi managed to score a quick succession of strikes there by taking the lead. Before she could press her advantage further Hiromitsu began spinning while emitting chakra from his tenketsu points. Catching the brunt of Rotation full on Hanabi was thrown back landing hard near her family.
Hinata wanted to run to her sister but was restrained by Hiashi placing a hand on her shoulder. Feeling her relax he said, "I thought this was a traditional match?"
"I will allow it," the elder said, "Although it is frowned upon using jutsu is not expressly forbidden."
Hiashi frowned wondering if the elder was another of the people supporting Hideki. He looked on proudly as Hanabi picked herself up although unsteadily. Hiromitsu allowed a small smile to grace his lips as he began running towards Hanabi to finish her.
Hanabi shook her head to clear the cob webs and spotted Hiromitsu charging towards her. Wondering what Konohamaru would do, she smiled as she made a hand sign disappearing in a puff of smoke. What stood in her place was a far older looking Hanabi, minus the clothes but whose naughty bits were obscured by strategically placed clouds. Striking a pose she said, "Is this what you are hoping to win?"
Hiromitsu was taught to ignore pain, or any other number of things that one would encounter in a fight. Never in all the scenarios had he ever been told how to ignore his own raging hormones no doubt amplified by the treatments his father had arranged for him. Seeing the beautiful woman that now stood in front of him his jaw dropped in surprise as his brain shutdown the combat portion of his mind for more primal urges.
Which was why, he was caught flat-footed when Hanabi used her longer limbs, as a result of the henge, to kick Hiromitsu in the jaw. As he was sent flying, the smoke around Hanabi thinned enough to show that the girl wasn't as nude as she appeared but wore a rather revealing bikini. Hanabi dropped the henge and closed with her opponent who was attempting to pick himself back up. Stopping near his head she raised her leg almost vertically before bringing it down on the back of his skull and smashing his forehead into the ground winning the fight.
As soon as it became apparent that Hiromitsu wasn't getting up, Hideki shouted, "She cheated."
"How so," Hiashi said smugly, "While it may be frowned upon, using jutsu isn't forbidden. Now is it?" The last part of his sentence was directed towards the elder with the hint of a challenge almost daring him to say otherwise.
The elder merely nodded in recognition of Hiashi's point before declaring Hanabi the winner. Hinata immediately ran to her sister to congratulate her while Hideki had his servants collect his son not even staying to see if he was injured. Sighing in relief that at least the current situation was surpassed he spent a moment to watch Hideki leave confident the man was already scheming on a new way to claim the position he had long coveted. Confident that with his immediate family's backing, as well as with the support of the Branch family , he would continue to remain in his position Hiashi moved to congratulate his daughter and to find out what other things young Sarutobi had been teaching her.
"Any sign of her," Anko asked worried as Tayuya ran up to her.
"No," the red-head replied, "Kin said the last time she saw her was this morning and that she was talking about trying to find out what that girl that disappeared knew."
"Do you think the girl is a part of this?" Iruka asked trying to comfort Anko by placing a hand on her shoulder.
"I don't know," Anko answered, "But I should have squeezed the girl dry for information."
"Calm down…"
"Don't tell me to calm down," Anko snapped, "It's been almost five hours since anyone has seen her. For all we know Orochimaru has her and Kami only knows what he'll do to her." Turning to Tayuya she said, "Tell Kin this takes precedence. I want you to find where this Isaribi lives we'll start our search there."
"Right," Tayuya said taking off to go get Kin.
As soon as Tayuya was out of sight Anko said, "Are you going to tell me I'm making a mistake putting Sasame before the mission?"
"No, I would be reacting similarly if one of my students went missing" Iruka said kindly pulling her into a comforting hug, "But you need to calm down. If Orochimaru is behind this then you may already have the answer to where she is."
Anko looked at him saying, "You're right. Damn it, why can't I remember where his lab is at?"
"You're afraid too," Iruka said, "Face what it is you are afraid of remembering and I'm sure it'll come back to you."
"I don't know if I can do that," Anko said her voice showing how vulnerable she was at the moment.
"I know you can and don't worry we'll find her."
"But will she still be human when we do?" Anko said to which Iruka had no answer.