An: I would like to thank everyone who has reviewed as always. Also, I will not be able to update this story at my normal week a chapter for the next couple of weeks. Sorry, especially since Naruto had finally returned in this chapter but a lot has happened recently and while it was good. It will be taking time away from writing so again sorry but I'll do my best to still release the story at least biweekly. Hopefully things will calm down by December. So as always thanks for reviewing your humble author S. o. t. A.
Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto and I'm doing this for fun not profit
Chapter 52: The Return
Sai probably set a speed record that Lee would have a hard time beating on his return trip to Konoha from the Land of Bears. His fear upon returning was that Naruto would have already arrived and that Danzou would have put his plan into motion. Luckily that hadn't seemed to be the case. However, his speed had to do with more than Naruto's return but also with the compound's outgoing mail. So after being debriefed by Danzou personally, he went straight to his modest room. Heading to his desk, he pulled out a blank sheet of paper hoping Sakura would understand what it meant and stuck it into a brown envelop. Taking off his headband he also placed it in the envelope, since back during the founding of Konoha giving a headband or other personal possession along with a document or letter, was meant to signify the importance of the item. However, while Sai didn't doubt that the man that checked his mail had become complacent, he couldn't be sure about the person that checked the censor's work was the same. Therefore, he needed to make sure that after his mail was turned in; it was already on its way out. Hence, the reason for his speedy return to the compound as the mail was due to leave within the hour.
Heading to the mail room, he stepped up to the counter, not surprised to find nobody else waiting since Root agents didn't have many ties to the outside world. Occasionally they did however, since Danzou sent them out much like he did to Sai, to build a bond which the man could later exploit. Danzou naturally was aware that those bonds could go both ways though so made sure all outgoing mail was looked over.
Stepping to the counter he handed the unsealed envelop over to the Root member in charge. He opened the envelope and read over the attached letter looking for anything that Sai would have to change. Seeing nothing, the man put the letter back and pulled out the blank page. Also upon feeling the weight of the headband upturned the envelope dumping it on the counter.
Looking at Sai in confusion the man asked, "What's this about?"
"I promised in my last letter to send a gift if I couldn't finish my picture book. Sadly my muse seems to have left me and since I don't have much in the ways of possessions decided to send my Leaf Headband as the gift I promised," Sai said calmly giving his fake smile at the end.
"A pity," the censor said, "It was one of the highpoints of my job. I was really looking forward to seeing what happened next." Sai nodded, but began to panic as he saw one of the other mailroom Root members grabbing the bin of outgoing mail. The man almost made it out of the door when the censor said, "Hey, hold up." Hurryingly he scribbled the contents of what was being sent out in his book and then sealed the items into the envelope and placed it into the bin. Turning back to Sai he said, "When you think of an ending let me know."
Sai again nodded before leaving for his room blowing out a sigh of relief as soon as he was out of sight. While he was glad he had been right about the censor he didn't doubt that one of the higher ups would see the hidden message his headband was meant to be and that a quick look into the censor's records would show them just how dangerous his pictures had been.
Figuring his remaining time in this world could be measured in days if not hours he headed to his room to prepare. Having a sudden flash of inspiration Sai also decided to draw what could perhaps be his final picture.
Holographic figures began shimmering and appearing in front of Pain. When the last one phased into existence he said, "Kisame has been felled in battle."
"Are we certain?" Itachi said still at the Akatsuki base he had stumbled to upon being poisoned.
Pain shrugged saying, "As certain as we can be. His body and sword have yet to be found and he hasn't checked in at any of our hidden bases. We'll have to operate under the assumption that he is dead."
"So what does this fuck'n mean for the rest of us?" one of the holographic images asked.
"It means two things Hidan," Pain replied his patience with the Jashin believer fading. "The first is due to us missing his massive chakra reserves it will take longer to seal each of the beasts. The second is due to his missing ring we'll be unable to replace him."
"Wouldn't it also mean one of us needs to take on a second jinchuriki?" Kakuzu asked.
"Indeed," Pain replied, "however we will worry about that later. For now, continue with your assigned targets. Sasori, what is the status of yours."
"We have collected the Five-tails as ordered and are in route with him," Sasori responded. "If what you said about the time it takes to seal the beast being longer now, it will force us to push back our attack on Suna."
"No," Pain said firmly, "The rest of us will see to sealing the beast. You and Deidara continue on as planned."
"Shit, that means we'll be sitting around for days," Hidan complained.
"Although I find his complaining annoying," Kakuzu said aggravated he had to agree with his partner he continued, "This delay will cost us quite a bit of money, as well as making Itachi's assignment harder to carry out now that Iwa will be on guard."
"Your concern is touching," Itachi said dryly, "However, I doubt Iwa will take too many steps to secure the Four-tails, due to how they view their jinchuriki."
"Still when the time comes you will need someone to help capture the jinchuriki," Pain said calmly. Turning to the woman in the shadows behind him he added, "Konan, you will become Itachi's partner while he secures the Four-tails."
"Yes Nag…Pain" Konan said reluctantly.
"Good," Pain said. Addressing the rest of Akatsuki he added, "Do not get tied up. Sasori will be dropping off his captive soon and the rest of us will begin extracting it."
As the connections faded, Pain turned away noting that despite her outward calm she was annoyed and commenting upon it said, "Are you upset to be paired with Itachi?"
Keeping her face stoic she said, "He is an Uchiha and considering all Madara seems to be up to while playing at being that fool Tobi, I feel they may have designs on taking over Akatsuki."
"Trust me Konan," Nagato said surely, wearing Yahiko body, "If anyone wants Madara dead more than you, it is Itachi."
That gave Konan some pause as she nodded and asked, "When should I leave?"
"As soon as we've successful sealed the one tail after Deidara secures it," Pain replied as they walked out of the old throne room of Hanzou having succeeded in killing the man two years ago and making Ame theirs.
Hinata avoided a punch by dodging backwards allowing her attacker's fist to bury itself in the ground, which began to crack and explode as Sakura released the chakra her punch had contained. Hinata tried and succeeded in maintaining her balance, riding out the mini-earthquake before charging her opponent to try and score a few hits.
Hoping to connect, she swung at Sakura with a variety of strikes but the girl nimbly managed to avoid them all. Sakura tried to connect with a spinning kick that Hinata avoided by bending almost horizontally backwards gripping the ground with chakra. Straightening, she lashed out with a strike to Sakura's back but the pinkette managed to grab the arm and pulled Hinata off her feet tossing her over her shoulder. Landing hard on her back she stared up as Sakura's fist began to descend downwards. Hinata knocked the punch to the side before lashing up with a kick that forced Sakura to jump back or receive a kick to the face.
Sakura landed and narrowed her eyes as Hinata leapt back to her feet returning the glare. There was no need to say anything. Since they knew, they had both almost crossed the line of their agreed upon stipulation to the training they were engaging in, which was no strikes to the face. The Hokage had given both girls the day off from training since Naruto was due to return later that day. However to work off the nervousness they felt, they decided to do a little anyway. Both girls had won a spar apiece so naturally needed to have a tie-breaker. But the third match had been going on for a half-hour and the time of Naruto's return was rapidly approaching adding to the pressure.
Each girl had considered calling the match since they wanted to get to the apartment they shared and get ready. But they rejected it seeing as they wanted this small achievement going into the more important one of competing for Naruto's affection.
As if realizing the next pass would be the last both girls nodded to each other before sprinting towards one another. Sakura struck first due to her being slightly faster than Hinata. However, the Hyuuga had expected that, so having planted herself seconds before Sakura threw her punch. Hinata placed her left hand along the side of Sakura's arm and pushed it to the side away from her. She then brought up her right hand in a palm strike stopping it inches from Sakura's chest.
Sakura sagged a little having long since learned the rules to Jyuuken sparring so Hinata wouldn't really need to channel chakra into her blows so recognized the lethal blow that signaled her defeat. Sakura stepped back as did Hinata before giving a small bow of respect to each other.
"Damn," Sakura said straightening, "I was sure I had you."
Smiling Hinata said, "There were a few spots were you almost did," as she walked over to her bag and pulled a towel and water bottle out. Turning to Sakura who didn't bring one she asked, "Do you want some water."
"No thanks," Sakura said wiping the sweat from her brow.
Wondering why Sakura didn't bring her bag the Hyuuga princess asked, "Why didn't you bring your stuff along?"
"Well to be honest I didn't think we'd spend all morning training for one," Sakura said.
Hinata nodded saying, "Yeah, however I'm sort of glad we did so we wouldn't be stressing over what Naruto will think of how much we've matured. But is there another reason?"
"Yep," Sakura replied with a smile, "I didn't want anything slowing me down when we raced to see who the first one home to take a shower was." As soon as she finished her sentence Sakura was running towards the exit of the training field.
Hinata cursed as she hurriedly stuffed the things in her bag to chase after the laughing pinkette. By the time she had her bag secured she had lost sight of the girl. Jumping to the rooftops she activated her Byakugan catching sight of Sakura as she leapt into the apartment window. Hinata returned her vision to normal but continued to hurry. Arriving at the apartment she smiled as she headed to Sakura's room to activate the jutsu she had prepared the night before. Heading to her room she stripped completely and wrapping a towel around her went to the living room to wait for Sakura to finish. After twenty minutes she was getting impatient and began to bang on the bathroom door for Sakura to hurry.
Sakura snickered to herself quietly as Hinata began to bang on the bathroom door unaware that her roommate had shunshined to her bedroom directly from the shower. Drying, she looked at the outfit that she had picked out the night before after her shift at the hospital ended. Not wanting a repeat of what happened as Naruto left three years ago. Therefore they were a lot like her normal civilian clothes, except she didn't wear an undershirt with the red one and it wasn't as baggy. The blue skirt was perhaps a tad shorter than her normal one, but nothing as drastic as what she wore three years ago.
Sakura heard the bathroom door open after hearing Hinata utter a small curse. Guessing her friend and rival had used the Byakugan to see what was taking her so long and therefore had discovered Sakura's trick figured she had better hurry if she wanted to arrive at the gate first. Getting dressed, she headed to her bedroom door and turned the handle. However when she tried to push it open she found it wouldn't budge. Wondering what was going on, she tried again but couldn't open the door. Turning to her window she saw why as a small energy field covered the window due to a seal in the exact center of it that had appeared upon the jutsu's activation. Guessing there was one on the door as well she cursed as she set about trying to get it open.
Hinata laughed gently to herself as she stepped out of the bathroom watching the door to Sakura's room try to open. Moving to her own room, she pulled out the clothes that she planned to wear. Much like Sakura she opted to tone down her attire, opting for her normal shinobi clothes except her jacket hugged her figure instead of the baggy one she normally wore. Getting dressed, she looked at herself in the mirror happy with what she saw.
Exiting her room, she smiled as the door almost opened since Sakura must have gotten a running start. The seal barrier would release fifteen minutes after Naruto was set to arrive giving Hinata a small advantage in gaining his heart. She was just about to step out the front door when she heard, "Shannaro."
Having a good idea what that meant she turned back in time to see the wall of Sakura's room explode into dust. Stepping through the hole she made, Sakura looked at her before narrowing her eyes which Hinata quickly returned. They then both headed out their chosen exits, with Hinata using the door and Sakura the window on the race towards being at the gate first when Naruto arrived.
Naruto smiled as the gate of Konoha came into view. He and Jiraiya had been reversed summoned to Tanzaku Town not wanting the Akatsuki to have an idea of where Naruto had truly been for the past year and a half. Jiraiya had for the most part traveled with a henged shadow clone giving the appearance that Naruto had been with him.
"Man, it's good to be back," Naruto said, "especially eating normal human food again."
Laughing Jiraiya said, "Yeah, getting used to Ma's cooking is a feat in itself."
"I was afraid of the day when I did get used to it," Naruto said sending a grin his sensei's way.
"Ha, I suppose if you did it would mean you were doing poorly in your training," Jiraiya said referring to the fact that failing the Sage training turned a person into toad before becoming a statue. Getting serious Jiraiya said, "Now don't forget what we talked about."
Sighing Naruto said, "Yeah, yeah, I got it. Don't use the awesome jutsu I've been learning for over the past year."
"We've discussed this Naruto," Jiraiya said.
"I know," Naruto said, "Like Zabuza always said, the best jutsu are the ones where your opponents never seen before."
Jiraiya nodded, before looking up and seeing the older versions of the two girls he remembered had seen Naruto off, and said, "Well kid looks like you have a welcoming committee."
Naruto looked up, his eyes showing how happy he was to see them, although Jiraiya believed there was something else there as well. Naruto began running towards them. Upon stopping he was surprised when both girls hugged him at the exact same time. All three were blushing as they pulled back from each other.
The girls took the moment of silence to check out the changes that Naruto had gone through over the years. He still wore bandages over his face like he did when he was younger. He also wore a black flak-jacked that had his blade fastened down the center of his back. Underneath the flak jacket was a black t-shirt. He had traded the bandages he wore around his hands in for a pair of fingerless gloves with metal plates on the back of them. He also still sported the orange cargo pants that he favored.
Sakura spoke first saying, "Wow, you've grown. I think you're taller than me now."
"Yeah, finally hit that growth spurt," he said smiling.
"What about me Naruto, am I more womanly know?" Sakura asked blushing lightly.
"You look fine, you haven't changed at all," Naruto said giving a thumbs up to her.
Sakura humphed crossing her arms and turned away slightly causing Hinata to smile slightly as she thought, "I doubt he'd be able to say that if I asked."
"Wow Hinata," Naruto said trailing off causing both girls hearts to leap into their throats for different reasons, but they settled down when he continued, "You look like when it comes time to pick a new Hokage you'll give me a run for my money."
Although Hinata smiled, pleased that he recognized her strength, it wasn't exactly the compliment that she wanted. However, it was still enough to elicit a small blush from her as she said, "To tell you the truth Naruto that isn't my goal anymore."
"Oh, what is it," Naruto asked.
"To become the wife of the Hokage," Hinata said her facing going almost completely red. Sakura for her part couldn't believe Hinata's boldness.
Naruto stood there for a moment before saying his own face turning red, "Really, I don't think Granny Tsunade is into girls though."
As Hinata also crossed her arms and hmphed, Jiraiya sat there shaking his head as he thought disappointedly, "After three years he still doesn't realize when he's being hit on. I'm a failure as a teacher."
Hinata stood there thinking, "How could he think… I mean…"
Sakura did a little victory dance in her head thinking, "Thank you Naruto cluelessness."
Jiraiya for his part got an image of his princess enjoying a woman's company and felt like he could possibly die of blood loss as he turned away from the youngsters to bring a hand up to his nose.
Before Hinata could correct Naruto's misconception though an Anbu appeared saying, "Lord Jiraiya, welcome back."
"Tsunade must be in a hurry to see us then huh?" Jiraiya said seriously turning to the Anbu.
"Actually she wishes to see all of you," the Anbu replied.
Hinata and Sakura left first with a quick turn, their hair flying behind them feeling upset that after waiting three years it appeared Naruto hadn't matured from the clueless boy he had been before. Jiraiya walked by placing a hand on Naruto's shoulder as he walked by giving a small shake of his head. Left alone for a moment, Naruto suppressed the sigh he felt and was surprised he had been able to tell the girls what he said with a straight face.
He also couldn't believe that Hinata had been so bold as to tell him her intention was to marry him. Following behind the girls, he could tell they were torn between being mad or disappointed. But he hardened his resolve. Due to the fact, that during the three years he had been away he hadn't been able to decide between the two. The truth was. He knew he loved them both and the only thing that would separate who he may spend the rest of his life with would be the simple matter of who managed to get a date from him first.
However, he also knew that if he did give in to one of the girls' desires to advance their relationship it would change things and he couldn't be sure it would change for the better. The way Sakura had looked when Hinata had told him she wanted to marry the Hokage had shown a little bit of fear, which had turned to elation when Naruto had responded. Also, Hinata had been pleased when he said he didn't notice how much Sakura had matured in the three years. All in all, it proved that their feelings for him had been behind some of the tension he had felt when they had been together three years ago. He could defuse it by choosing one of them, but Naruto found it too hard to do, especially if choosing one meant losing the other. Therefore, he decided to play up the cluelessness that he had displayed before he left. He knew that at best it was a delaying tactic and at worse could cost him both of his precious people. But, to him it was almost like choosing which arm he would like to lose.
Deciding that the complications with his two precious friends were too depressing to concentrate on, he instead began focused on the walk to the Hokage's office. He noticed that they had carved Tsunade's face into the mountain commenting on it he was surprised that Sakura and Hinata had apparently decided to look past his less than stellar greeting.
Sakura nodded saying, "Yeah, it was done shortly after you left."
Hinata said, "It was rather neat to watch actually. They had a shinobi who was adept at Earth jutsu do it. It was almost like her face appeared from the mountain."
"Guess I'll see it first hand when I become Hokage," Naruto said with a smile. Catching up, the three chatted about many of the changes that had happened over the years.
Arriving at the Hokage's office, they were met by Haku, who was sitting outside the office. "Hello Naruto," Haku said warmly upon seeing the boy he thought of as a younger brother.
Haku stuck his hand out which Naruto grabbed before pulling him into a brotherly hug. Letting it go Naruto saw how Haku was dressed and said, "Finally traded in those old Hunter-nin clothes for something a little more you."
"I always thought I did the uniform justice," Haku said with a smile. "However, these clothes are in the tradition of my clan and since I've been training so hard in mastering its jutsu thought I should honor them by wearing these."
Naruto nodded, before asking, "Have you heard from Sai?" Sakura and Hinata shared a look wondering if they should tell Naruto, but since they hadn't received the last picture yet, decided to keep quiet about it for the moment.
Haku shook his head no, saying, "He may still be training for the shinobi that sponsored him."
"The Hokage will see you now," the secretary said from her desk.
Entering the office Naruto smiled at Tsunade, who was looking at him with an appraising eye and said, "Hey Granny Tsunade, did you miss me?"
"At times," Tsunade said a little peeved at his greeting, "I certainly didn't miss being called Granny though."
Turning to Jiraiya she said, "Was his training productive?"
"Extremely," Jiraiya said proudly.
"Good, I have the feeling he'll need every trick you taught him," Tsunade said sadly.
"Why," Jiraiya sad worriedly.
Tsunade handed a folder to Jiraiya who quickly scanned it. Shocked by what he read he asked, "Is this verified?"
"It's still hearsay," Tsunade replied, "However our agent has managed to secure herself a position in the Earth daimyo's court as a musician. Apparently, the nobles of that country don't have problems talking about things like that in front of outsiders."
"What is it Pervy Sage?" Naruto asked concerned.
Jiraiya looked at Tsunade who nodded, so with the Hokage's permission he said, "Han has been abducted by Akatsuki."
Although they had fought Naruto immediately said, "We're going to go after him right?"
"No," Tsunade said shaking her head.
"But…"
"Naruto, if it was up to me we would," Tsunade said cutting him off, "Unfortunately, relations with Earth Country are still tense. The report Jiraiya is holding goes on further to explain that rumors are circulating that we are behind the abduction due to your time in the country. If we send shinobi into Earth Country without permission, it would only be a matter of time before we are in a full blown war with them."
Naruto didn't like it, but he accepted the Hokage's reasoning. He was further tested when Tsunade said, "I have more news on what Akatsuki has been up too. They have also attacked Zabuza." Tsunade paused as both Haku and Naruto reacted to the news. Since there wasn't an outburst she continued, "He survived and managed to possibly kill Kisame Hoshigaki. Although, surviving his wife's anger may be the real challenge as he snuck off to fight him alone."
Both boys smiled at the Hokage's joke, but getting serious Naruto said, "They did it to try and draw me out didn't they."
"It looks that way," Tsunade responded with a nod.
"You're not going to hide me away are you?" Naruto asked, "Because if they are going after my friends then there's no way that's going to happen."
"I didn't allow you to go away to train for three years to hide you away," Tsunade said with a tight grin. "I'm a firm believer in going on the offensive when we can. That's why you are all here." Turning to her window she yelled, "Kakashi get in here."
The one-eyed jounin smiled beneath his mask giving a wave as he entered through the window. Addressing all the chunin, she said, "Naruto, Hinata, Haku, and Sakura you'll be operating under Kakashi here as a four man team."
"What about Sai?" Naruto asked.
"We'll have to see once Danzou is done with him," Tsunade said unsure of whether the boy could be trusted or not.
Sakura cut in before she could start again asking, "I thought three man teams with a jounin-sensei were the preferred method."
Giving a teasing grin Tsunade asked, "Would you like to be placed on a different team then?"
"No, milady," the pinkette replied quickly.
"Good," Tsunade said allowing her grin to fade, "The reason for the beefed up squad, is in all likelihood you'll be facing a pair of S-class shinobi as your missions will be to fight Akatsuki head on."
"Isn't that a little risky?" Jiraiya asked. "You'll be dangling Naruto out there for them to grab."
"I know," Tsunade replied, "But, Akatsuki will find him sooner rather than later. More importantly, if we try to hide him away, when they move will be when they have had all the time they need to prepare for whatever we set up to stop them. This way, we'll be the ones hunting them."
Jiraiya nodded so she continued, "In addition to the reinforced squad, I've changed around a few of the other teams to better aid you guys."
"What do you mean?" Kakashi asked surprised at the revelation.
Folding her hands in front of her the Hokage said, "Basically your team will be assisted by other squads depending on the situation. Team Kurenai, will be used to help locate Akatsuki bases or members. Team Gai, will be called in to help pacify them once found, or Team Asuma, to capture a prisoner for interrogation. Unfortunately, unless we go to war they'll still need to do mission, but I'll pull them should the situation warrant it."
Slamming his fist into his hand, Naruto said, "Alright, it sounds like we're serious about handling these chumps."
"As serious as it gets," Tsunade said, "Jiraiya, the Mizukage has informed me that she has men searching for Utakata…"
Jiraiya held up a hand saying, "Let's talk about it later over drinks," since he didn't want to mention what he learned about Kushina in front of Naruto.
Tsunade blushed a little at the idea, but nodded. Kakashi taking charge said, "Alright then Team Kakashi let's go get ourselves a training field to test just how much we've all grown."
"Wait Kakashi," Naruto said digging into his pouch. "Jiraiya gave this to me saying I'd know what to do with it when the time comes. I guess he had some idea of what Granny was up to and I remember you are into this sort of thing."
Kakashi's lone eye got wide as he said, "That's… that's, oh Naruto, you're my new favorite student." Taking the newest book of the Make-out series from Naruto he opened it reverently saying, "Uhm, maybe we should…"
Sensing that all the females in the room were directing a murderous glare at him since the last thing they wanted was the training session to be canceled so he could read his porn he instead said, "Never mind. I'll see you there," before leaping out the window.
Tsunade shouted, "You better be first if you know what's good for you."
Sakura sighed a little at her sensei's antics wondering how Shizune put up with him, but took Naruto by the arm glaring at Hinata as she did the same. At the same time they said, "Let's go Naruto." But Tsunade stopped them saying, "Sakura, Hinata you two stay, let the boys catch up."
Frowning, they let go and watched as Haku and Naruto left out the door to the room, followed by Jiraiya. When they were alone Tsunade said, "Look, I know you both have feelings for him. So let me make this perfectly clear. If I hear of one incident where you let that desire interfere with a mission, I'll have the pair of you booted off the team so fast your heads will spin. Am I clear?"
Both girls swallowed hard, but nodded to the Hokage before following after the boys. Tsunade hoped that they found a way to make things work in a way that everyone was happy with as she knew the pain of a broken heart. Thinking of her own romantic possibilities, she smiled and wondered if she could mix a little business with pleasure herself tonight.
Jiraiya smiled as he watched the new Team Kakashi try and get the bells from Kakashi who was showing off why he was a jounin. Naruto was currently engaging him in a taijutsu match demonstrating the new fighting style they had worked on. Kakashi caught on quickly that Naruto was creating the clones one-handedly. But when he tried to tie up Naruto's hands he seemed to forget that with Naruto's chakra his clones could make clones receiving a kick to his chest from one.
As Haku burst out of the woods to help Naruto, the Toad Sannin turned away confident the team would find a way to get the bells away from Kakashi. Heading to the Uchiha district, he wanted to see the stone slab that resided in the basement. Moving the floorboard in the shrine he began to descend the narrow steps arriving he found that the torches in the area were already lit.
Stepping into the light he was surprised to see Tsunade waiting on him. Giving a lecherous grin he said, "I thought you'd be watching your new team fighting Kakashi. Don't tell me my charms have worn you down to the point where you needed to be alone with me."
Controlling the blush that his words threatened to make appear on her cheeks, she said, "I did need to meet alone with you, remember? Now what is it that you learned that you couldn't say in front of the others?"
"Have you heard about what happened to Hoshigakure?"
"Yes, some agent pretty much singlehandedly brought the whole village to its knees," Tsunade replied.
"Yeah," Jiraiya said grimly, "The thing is, that agent may have been Kushina."
"What?"
"The attacker was proficient with the Mass Shadow Clone Jutsu," Jiraiya said, "The only person that can use it besides Naruto would be the woman that invented it."
"But who is she working for?"
"I don't know," Jiraiya said, "The new leader of the village made it sound like Kushina was working for a person. But she could still be an agent of Akatsuki especially in light of their attack on Zabuza. I'm going to dedicate some time to that for now. Whoever took her must be planning to point her at Naruto."
"You think Kushina would attack Naruto again?"
Before Jiraiya could respond a voice said, "I'd bank on it."
Tsunade spun to see Sarutobi entering the room joining his two former students. Sighing gravely he said, "I feared this day would come ever since we learned she was still alive."
Tsunade growled saying, "Then we should simply kick down Danzou's door. That is who Ibiki believes have her."
"We can't," Jiraiya said surprising Tsunade, "While I would love to believe it is Danzou. The old bastard wouldn't hesitate to kill her if he suspected we thought he did and were coming."
"I'm talking about the three of us right now," Tsunade said. "Thanks to Shibi and his son we've all but proven that Root still exists."
"That may be, but the problem is Kushina herself," Jiraiya said.
"What do you mean?" the current Hokage asked.
"He means Kushina may very well be working for Danzou willingly," Sarutobi said.
"I have a hard time believing that. Kushina hated Danzou," Tsunade said remembering all the times she listened to the woman complain about the Warhawk and his constant attempts to convince Minato to attack the enemies of Konoha.
"True…" Sarutobi began but added, "You weren't there Tsunade. She was completely convinced the sealing of the Kyuubi failed. That Naruto had become the Kyuubi incarnate."
"But if she was the previous host surely she would know better," Tsunade said her tone still a little peeved her sensei hadn't told her about her grandmother or the red-heads being the previous jinchuriki.
Sighing and figuring he was about to anger both his students the elder said, "Which led me to believe she was being used somehow. That some sort of suggestion was placed on her to make her believe that."
"But who…" Tsunade began.
However Jiraiya narrowed his eyes saying angrily, "That's why you placed her in that genjutsu. You never wanted her to wake up."
Nodding sadly Sarutobi sad, "The Kurama clan Genjutsu created a paradise for whoever was targeted by it. A paradise that the person trapped never wanted to escape from."
Getting angry Tsunade said, "Why? Why would you deprive Naruto of his mother like that? Surely if it was a hypnotic suggestion there were better ways."
Jiraiya placed a hand on her shoulder saying, "We searched her memories but the Yamanaka couldn't find anything of that night. It was like she was blocking them off or someone covered their tracks."
"But still, there had to be a way to help her."
"There may have," Sarutobi replied sadly, "But whoever chose her did so knowing that she was one of the most dangerous and unpredictable shinobi of her time. Simply locking her away in a cell wouldn't have stopped her from eventually getting loose and then getting to Naruto. I did what I did to prevent that. To bring some small measurement of peace to the woman, hoping that she would remain in the genjutsu and not kill the very child she brought into this world."
"So what do we do now?" Tsunade asked.
"Well, even if Danzou is behind this. He isn't going to set her loose inside the village. Therefore it'll be a mission, we'll have to go over any requests for Team Kakashi carefully," Jiraiya said. "That means even missions that sound like it will hurt Akatsuki should be carefully screened. Meanwhile, I'll begin searching for her using Hoshigakure as a starting point."
Sarutobi nodded saying, "I'll step up preparations to take care of Root," before leaving his students.
"When will you leave?" Tsunade asked.
"Tomorrow," Jiraiya replied preparing to get some rest.
"How about we get that drink?" Tsunade said surprising Jiraiya.
"Sure," was his simple reply.
Naruto was walking slightly ahead of the others with a smile on his face since he had thought of the tactic that had caused Kakashi to drop his guard long enough for them to get the bells from him. Commenting on it Sakura said, "I had really hoped he matured in the three years since I was last on his team."
Hinata nodded saying, "Let's just hope he finishes the book by the time Akatsuki shows up."
"Don't worry about it," Sakura said, "He isn't really coming up with team formations. He's probably going home to read. He'll have that book finished by morning."
As they entered Ichiraku, Ayame came running around the counter excitedly hugging Naruto. Guiding her favorite customer to a stool, she served him a free bowl of Miso. Naruto enjoyed the attention telling his friends about some of his adventures. When Hinata asked him where he was for the past year and a half he wisely skipped over it. Instead, downing what was left in his bowl before asking for more.
Haku left shortly after since he was going to meet up with Kin. After twelve bowls Naruto, and the two girls left the stand heading to their apartment building. As they walked Hinata asked, "So you can't tell us where you were huh?"
"Sorry," Naruto said wishing he could, "but Jiraiya doesn't want anyone to know."
"It must be an amazing technique you learned if you can't even say where you were," Hinata said linking her arm through Naruto's.
"I really wish you could see it," Naruto said proudly.
Sakura not one to be outdone grabbed his free arm saying, "Well hopefully we'll never need to see it."
"Aw man, that would be depressing," Naruto said with a slight pout, "It would mean I got hit over the head for nothing."
Both girls looked at him confused but he didn't elaborate. Entering the hall for their apartments Naruto was going to peek into the girls'. However, both Sakura and Hinata stepped in front of the door. Naruto pouted a little saying, "Aw, I was kind of wondering what you've done with the place."
Giggling nervously the girls looked at each other before Sakura said, "We're sort of remodeling right now."
"Oh okay," Naruto said before heading to his own apartment sending one last look at the two girls he cared so much for who made sure he entered his apartment before opening theirs to the sight of the trashed wall .
Tsunade put her hand over her cup again stopping the waitress from filling it with sake something she had been doing all day. Jiraiya noticed saying, "Wow, I don't think I've seen you turn down a drink in years. You must be quite upset about what we discussed earlier."
"No…" Tsunade said but when Jiraiya raised an eyebrow she corrected herself, "Well I am. But that isn't the reason why." Before he could inquire she turned the subject asking, "So is this jutsu you've taught Naruto the one you always refused to show me?"
"Ha-ha, yeah," Jiraiya said proudly, "but he won't refuse to use it for a the same reason as me. He's mastered it to an amazing level. His parents would be so proud of him."
"We should simply kick down Danzou's door and squeeze him until he talks," Tsunade said angrily.
"That old warhawk wouldn't talk," Jiraiya said, "no matter how hard you squeezed princess."
Tsunade blushed at Jiraiya's nickname for her while sending him a dazzling smile. He stared at her lost in her smile before downing the rest of his cup. "Whoa, this sake is pretty good. If I'm going to leave tomorrow I better stop."
Leaving some money behind to cover both of them although Tsunade didn't drink he stood swaying slightly. As they left the restaurant Tsunade frowned as he began heading the opposite way from her, commenting on it she said, "You know there was a time when you would have offered to walk me home."
Jiraiya arched an eyebrow but said, "Sure, I'd love to."
As they walked he watched Tsunade out of the corner of his eye wondering why she was acting so weird. As a kid he'd often asked to walk her home, but she always insisted that the Senju princess didn't need an escort home. Nearing the Hokage's residence he walked her up to the front before saying his tone light, "Well here you are safe and sound." Turning serious he said, "I'll let you know if I learn anything."
Tsunade kept her back to him standing in front of her door, wondering if she was alright he placed a hand on her shoulder saying, "Earth to Tsuna…" However the rest of his sentence was swallowed by Tsunade's lips as she spun and kissed him. She put all the feelings that she had for the Toad Sannin that the three years of letters between them had only made stronger. She was worried for a moment when Jiraiya didn't respond, fearing that he wouldn't want an older woman like her, when he could still seduce younger ones. But those fears were put to rest, as his arms encircled her waist and pulled her closer.
Pulling back for air Jiraiya said, "While truly a dream come true, I have to ask. Where'd this come from?"
Staring into his eyes she said, "I'm tired of being alone. But I realized that I never truly was. You've always been there for me, by my side, and you've never asked anything of me in return. I'm sorry for taking advantage of you like that."
"Tsunade," Jiraiya said softly, "I never needed anything from you, but for you to be happy."
"Then stay with me tonight," Tsunade said placing her head on his chest feeling the hard muscles beneath his clothes.
"I…I hope you know what you're getting into," Jiraiya said, "Because if I have you once, I'll never let you go."
Pulling her head back she said, "You don't remember what you said to me three years ago on the Hokage monument do you."
"I remember we talked about Naruto and Sasuke's defection," Jiraiya said confused.
"We also talked about the time I tried to seduce you. You said that you refused me because when I fell for your charm you didn't want it to be because of the sake. Well Jiraiya I haven't had a drink all day."
Smiling Jiraiya lifted her into his arms saying, "No princess I guess you didn't. I hope you don't have any early morning meetings tomorrow because I think you're going to miss them." With that he managed to open the door and proceeded to carry her to her bedroom where he showed her all the things he dreamed of doing with her for over forty years.
Across town Kakashi sat up in bed his senses tingling with excitement. Moaning next to him Shizune asked, "What is it Kakashi?"
"I don't know," Kakashi said, "it's this feeling that Make-out Paradise is going to get even better."
Grabbing him by his nightshirt Shizune said, "Now listen here. It's bad enough that you read that book straight through in bed. But now you're waking me up in the middle of the night talking about the stupid thing."
Running his hand along her side Kakashi asked, "Is someone feeling neglected?" Before she could reply he kissed her which quickly deepened. Pulling back Kakashi said, "I'll take that as a yes." Setting about correcting his girlfriend's problem he decided to try the position described on page ninety –three of his newest book.
Jiraiya had the feeling that he was missing some great research as he lay in bed next to the sleeping beauty that was Tsunade. He was lying under the blanket with it up to his chin as he stared at the ceiling. He guessed it was closer to morning than not and although he was tired, feared falling asleep only to find that the night of bliss he had experienced was simply a dream.
Tsunade began to stir and noticing the circles under his eyes sat up to say, "I figured you'd be out like a light considering the number of times you managed to rise to the occasion."
"I'm afraid, this is simply a highly realistic dream," he said.
Tsunade smiled which turned a bit more lecherous as Jiraiya's body react to seeing her own nude form. Climbing atop him she positioned him to enter her once more. Sinking down and after he entered her completely she said, "Consider it a dream come true." Moving slowly it wasn't long before Jiraiya got involved and proved that his research was good for more than writing. When they both reached their crescendo she smiled down seeing him sleeping with the biggest and goofiest grin that he possessed on his face. Sliding off of him she snuggled into his side and prayed that this gamble paid off and she wouldn't have to bury another man she loved.
Naruto awoke to the delicious aroma of eggs and bacon being cooked. Wondering if he was dreaming the smell, he got out of bed and upon entering his kitchen area was surprised to see Hinata cooking for him. Giving him a brilliant smile she said, "Morning Naruto."
One of the pans on the stove needed her attention, so she turned away and Naruto wondered if this was another one of his dreams where he had married Sakura or Hinata. He pinched himself but since the world didn't dissolve guessed it was really happening. Now that he knew it wasn't a dream, he was glad he didn't respond the way he normally did, when he had been dreaming.
"Good morning Hinata," Naruto said pleasantly, "What's going on?"
"I'm cooking you breakfast," she replied sweetly.
"But why?"
"Because I missed you and wanted to do something nice for you," Hinata replied scooping the eggs onto a plate, followed by the bacon and some toast.
Naruto felt a warm feeling for her at the gesture as well as slightly guilty for still playing the fool about her feelings. But since he believed it was for the best decided to continue. Hearing Hinata say, "Sit down Naruto," pulled him from his thoughts.
Doing as instructed, he sat and smiled up happily at Hinata as she placed the plate in front of him. "Dig in," she said confident that the fastest way to his heart was through his stomach.
Naruto took a bite and immediately began shoveling the rest into his face taking enough time to swallow and say, "This is delicious Hinata."
"I'm glad you like it," Hinata said watching him eat from across the table.
"Aren't you going to eat?"
"No I'm fine, Naruto," Hinata replied with a small smile on her face pleased he enjoyed her cooking.
Naruto nodded before returning to his plate already feeling his resolve to keep his heart away from the two girls fading.
Sakura grumbled as she returned to the apartment carrying the supplies she needed to repair the hole she had made in the wall. She bet Hinata was with Naruto right now. Stepping into the hall she saw an envelope sitting in front of the door. Wondering who it was from, she opened the door and after setting down the stuff brought the envelope in. Seeing that it bore the address, that all of Sai's other pictures had come from, she felt a cold shiver run down her spine. For a brief moment she wondered why it was heavier than his other packages.
With trembling fingers, she opened the envelope and dumped the contents on the counter top she was standing in front of. She picked up the headband first wondering why Sai would send it unless it was the gift he had mentioned in his last letter. Going next for the picture she flipped it over and was surprised to see it was blank. However the feeling of dread she was experiencing grew worse as she believed she new why it was blank, which was because the events haven't happened yet. Hoping Sai's letter would explain more she opened it to read:
Hello again Sakura,
I'm sorry to say that it seems my inspiration to draw has left me. But, since I promised to finish this or give you a gift. I have included my headband. Please give it to Naruto upon his return, as he's always placed an exorbitant amount of meaning into his headband. Regardless, I have included the blank sheet of paper for you to hopefully draw the happy ending I'm sure you hoped the last picture would have portrayed.
Sincerely Sai
Sakura felt that Sai was writing a good-bye letter like he didn't expect to live much longer. Sakura placed it down before grabbing the blank sheet of paper feeling tears threaten to spill from her eyes wondering what she should do. She understood now that the pictures were a warning for Naruto and that the threat was most likely the woman the second half of the story portrayed. The previous picture was meant to show that when Naruto and her met they would fight or it had represented a hope of Sai's that they would defend each other from a threat that was off panel. The blank sheet of paper was meant to show it could go either way.
But who was the woman? Was she what she and Hinata suspected, which was Naruto's mother? That was the question that had bothered them the most and although they believed it was his mother. They couldn't understand why she would want to kill her son, unless she believed him to be the Kyuubi. Sakura decided Naruto needed to know so grabbing the bin containing the other pictures she headed to his apartment.
Entering without knocking she saw Hinata and him sitting at the kitchen table. Naruto apparently was eating some of Hinata's cooking. Hinata turned towards her to glare slightly at being interrupted by her rival but stopped when she saw the look on Sakura's face. "What's wrong?" she asked concerned.
Sakura held up the piece of paper she received, which caused Hinata's eyes to widen in surprise. Flipping it around to show that the other side was just as blank the Hyuuga whispered, "Oh no."
Naruto was confused at the sudden fear Hinata was displaying that was matched by Sakura's own. Setting the bin on the table Sakura said, "Naruto, while you've been gone, Sai's been sending us pictures. He claimed it was supposed to be a gift for you and asked me to hold onto them for him. He also asked that I keep it a secret, but I showed Hinata because I was going out on a mission once and wanted someone to collect them."
Naruto nodded wondering why they appeared so freaked out over pictures. Hinata took over saying, "We began to suspect that he was trying to tell you something with them."
Sakura nodded handing him the bin. Taking it he began scanning the pictures. The first one of the baby and woman brought a smile to his face despite the devastation going on outside the window. The next made him sad remembering being the lonely kid that people ignored, while the one after sort of made his chest stick out remembering how he saved Hinata and Sakura from the Cloud-nin. As he looked over them he continued to wonder what the girls were talking about because they simply seemed to be snapshots of his life. But then the story changed when the woman he assumed Sai had meant to be his mom from the first began to star in the pictures. Seeing that she was training to kill miniature versions of the boy Sai was using to represent him filled him with questions. When he got to the blank one he said, "Why's the last one blank?"
The girls shared a look before Hinata said, "Because it hasn't happened yet."
"That's ridiculous my mom's…" but he trailed off realizing he didn't really know what had happened to his mother. Every time he had asked Jiraiya the Sannin had changed the subject or said he didn't know. Which left the question that he gave voice to which was, "How would Sai know my mom?"
Sakura responded saying, "I don't know. But the pictures make it appear that she was asleep for a long time."
Naruto stood abruptly feeling angry as he headed back to his room to change. A few moments later he reappeared dressed in his normal ninja gear fully decked out with all his weapons. Concerned Sakura asked, "Naruto where are you going?"
"To get some answers," he replied moving for the door.
Hinata quickly moved in front of him saying, "You can't, Danzou is an elder of Konoha. I understand you want answers but attacking him will…"
"I'm not going to attack him," Naruto cut her off. "He isn't the person I'm going to go see. Now please move."
Hinata did so, causing Naruto to leave the apartment. She was surprised when Sakura said, while gathering up the pictures, "Go after him Hinata. Make sure he doesn't do anything stupid."
Nodding the Hyuuga princess asked, "What are you going to do?"
"I'm going to show these to the Hokage," Sakura said hurriedly, "Hopefully, she'll know what to do."
Sarutobi was again on his porch when he spotted Naruto heading towards him. He could tell something was bothering the boy simply by the way he walked. Hinata who was following behind him sending worried looks his way helped as well.
When Naruto stopped Sarutobi said, "Ah, Naruto it's good to see…"
"Where's my mother?" Naruto asked his tone slightly above a harsh growl.
"What," Sarutobi asked surprised, "Well you see…"
"Don't jerk me around," Naruto said angrily causing Hinata to say his name surprised. Ignoring her he continued, "I understand that there are things you couldn't tell me because you didn't think I was ready to hear then. But letting me think she was dead, that's too cruel."
"How…"
"Sai seems to have met her or somehow knows she is training to kill me," Naruto said noticing the way Sarutobi's eyes lit up.
"I want the truth," Naruto said causing Sarutobi to sigh in defeat.
"The truth is Naruto; I don't know where she is. I did, up until the Chunin Exams that is. But the safehouse where she was being kept was raided."
"Kept," Naruto asked tilting his head in confusion.
"Yes, she was placed in a genjutsu to keep her asleep," Sarutobi replied.
Naruto turned to leave causing Sarutobi to get out of his rocker saying, "Where are you going?"
"This Danzou bastard has my mom," Naruto said, "I going to get her back."
"Wait," Sarutobi said quickly before asking, "How do you know that?"
Hinata stepped in explaining how over the past three years Sai had been sending pictures to Sakura. Sarutobi nodded saying, "Naruto, I know you don't have much reason to have faith in me at the moment. However, please refrain from doing anything reckless."
"But…"
"Listen to me, my boy," Sarutobi said stopping him, "Danzou is a dangerous and slippery opponent. We've been preparing to move against him for years. With these pictures we finally have the proof we need to go forward. But if we act recklessly, he may kill her and Sai simply to cover his tracks. Then there is the problem of your mother herself."
"What do you mean?"
Sitting back down he ran a hand over his face feeling everyone of his advanced years saying, "There is a lot about the night of your birth that I can't say just yet. I'm not even sure about a great deal of what happened myself, but shortly after your birth she tried to kill you."
Hinata gasped brining her hands to her mouth while Naruto was too stunned to react. Finally he said, "She hated me because of the Kyuubi didn't she?"
"She believed the seal had failed Naruto, although we don't know why."
"What do you mean?"
"Let's just say…your mother had a more intimate relation with seals then most people," Sarutobi replied after a moment of thought.
Before Naruto could inquire more Sakura came running down the path shouting, "Naruto, Hinata, we have a mission."
"Not now Sakura," Naruto said.
"It's Gaara," Sakura said sadly, "He's been attacked and taken by Akatsuki."
Naruto felt his anger on the verge of exploding wondering why Kami was dumping so much crap on him so soon after returning. He calmed slightly as Sarutobi said while placing a hand on his shoulder, "Naruto, you have my word, we'll have this taken care of by the time you return from saving Gaara."
Naruto stared up at him for a few moments before nodding and saying, "Thanks, I'm counting on you Old Man," before taking off down the path to the Hokage mansion.
Sarutobi watched the new generation march off to battle feeling sad that the scales between war and peace were once more tilting towards war. Standing, he prepared to marshal his forces as it was time to pull out and expose Root once and for all.
"Lord Danzou, we may have a problem."
Looking up from the document he was looking over Danzou stared at the masked face of Hyo, one of his most loyal soldiers. Hyo normally acted as a messenger between him and his agents in the field and was one of his most reliable and brightest men. He also oversaw the censors that monitored all outgoing mail. Knowing that if the man was concerned it didn't bode well for Root he said, "Report."
"It appears that we have been betrayed," Hyo said handing a book to Danzou's assistant who handed it to him in turn.
Looking at the highlighted passage, Danzou asked, "Why wasn't this caught sooner?"
"I'm afraid the censor didn't realize the significance of the pictures due to his not knowing about Operation: Filicide. I admit that I didn't see the relevance until his last package was sent which consisted of a blank sheet of paper along with his headband and a letter. The letter didn't appear to contain any hidden significance. However, he was obviously trying to tell this Sakura Haruno something through the use of images. It was only by going back over all the pictures that he sent over the past three years…"
"Be silent," Danzou said harshly. "What does Inu's report on Kushina indicate?"
"She appears conflicted but by all accounts is ready to proceed with the mission," Hyo responded not giving any indication of being bothered by how harshly he had been cutoff. "Do you believe that Sai has been hampering her training?"
"Most likely, however the suggestion seems to be holding…"
"Lord Danzou…" another of his agents said bursting into the room before dropping to his knees.
Fearing that it was Konoha going to destroy him he asked, "What is it?"
"The Kazekage has been abducted by Akatsuki," the agent reported. "We have had this confirmed by agents within Suna. Furthermore, it appears that Tsunade is sending our jinchuriki to go after him."
"Reckless," Danzou said, "but it would appear that Tsunade isn't aware of our being in possession of Kushina despite Sai's betrayal or otherwise she'd be banging down our door. This could also give us the break we need to put Operation: Filicide into motion."
Hyo nodded but said, "What about Kushina, she may turn against us or merely be playing along?"
"Which is why I'll be paying a visit to her directly," Danzou said standing. Addressing the man that had just entered, he said "Prepare to move all Root personnel off premise. Leave no trace behind. Put Idate in charge of that. We'll be operating Root from Site Ogre. Also, Sai is to be apprehended and tortured. I want to know everything he intended for these pictures to say and what other secrets he may have attempted to let out of the bag."
Bowing his head the agent backed out of the room to fulfill his orders. Danzou motioned for Hyo and his assistant to follow him saying to his assistant, "You will be operating in your role as a body double while I'm gone should Konoha move against me."
The man nodded, leaving to perform the jutsu that Root had recently required from the land that Site Ogre resided. A jutsu in which the man could turn himself into a fully functional copy of the Root Leader right down to the cellular level.
With only Hyo following him he said, "I want ten squads of my finest soldiers ready to leave in the hour."
"Yes sir, what is their mission?"
"Simple, once Kushina succeeds or fails to kill the jinchuriki, we'll sweep in and finish off the survivors. That way all Konoha will have against me is the word of a shinobi who we can easily make look like he betrayed the village."
"Yes sir," Hyo said going to fulfill his orders.
Moving to one of the lower levels Danzou entered a cell of a man they had caught trying to enter the village almost three years prior, in part due to Root's going over the old travel books in order to find who had gathered up some of the Kyuubi's chakra. The old man that occupied the room looked up from his cross-legged position on the floor saying, "So you finally have a use for me Danzou."
Lifting the bandage that covered the eye that he had recovered from Shisui, after Itachi killed him, he said, "That's right Genno of Kagero Village. Today is the day you take your long awaited revenge on Konoha."
Genno was mesmerized by the Sharingan eye and was proud that at the cost of his life, he would finally get the chance to do some damage to the village that he blamed for the destruction of his home and death of his son.
A few moments later, Danzou left the cell confident that Genno would perform his role beautifully which would make sure that once the Kyuubi boy left the village that Konoha would be unable to communicate with him by messenger bird. He'd let the boy fight Akatsuki first, hoping that they killed each other. But if not, he'd send Kushina in and then win or lose kill whoever was left standing provided they weren't loyal to him of course.
Tsunade hadn't felt better than she had that morning in years, which should have made her realize that it couldn't last. When Sakura had shown her the pictures Sai had sent her, she had felt a small measure of guilt at doubting the boy. But it paled in comparison to the fear that had welled up her chest at what Naruto would do. That was why despite the horrendous conditions when the woman who decrypted messages from their allies burst in telling her the Kazekage had been kidnapped. She felt the mission was a godsend, as it would allow them to handle Root while Naruto took care of Akatsuki. Not to mention her fear that Kushina would attempt to kill her son again.
That was why she was almost glad for the mission. As she was confident it was the only thing that would distract Naruto long enough for Sarutobi's Anti-Root movement to prepare for the organizations destruction, since they would need time to get the pieces into place without being discovered.
Standing in front of her desk was Team Kakashi, waiting for her official orders. She was waiting on one last person before beginning. A few moments later an obviously distraught Temari entered the office having heard the news already. "Now that we are all here let me begin by saying, that Konoha will do all in its power to rescue the Kazekage, Temari."
"I thank you Lady Hokage," Temari said but then added, "However I must ask that you refrain from sending Naruto."
"What!" Naruto exploded.
"I'm meant no disrespect Naruto. I'm only doing my duty as ambassador. Gaara would not want a fellow jinchuriki to risk himself in such a manner."
"Tough," Naruto said, "He's my friend and I'm going. Right Granny?"
"That's correct," Tsunade said, "I appreciate your concern, but Naruto's role isn't going to be to sit this conflict out. This team was made for the express purpose of fighting Akatsuki. We'll do all in our power to bring Gaara back safely. I trust you'll wish to go with them to Suna"
Temari nodded saying, "I'm ready to go now."
"As are we," Kakashi said.
"Excellent, then you are free to go. Kakashi we'll be sending some backup as soon as it frees up."
The jounin nodded before following in his teams wake. Getting up from her desk, Tsunade watched as the team leap across the rooftops making its way to the gate and hoped that they would arrive in Suna in time to make a difference. Sensing a presence behind her she said, "You seem rather pleased with yourself all things considered."
Sarutobi who was examining the pictures that Sakura had left with her said, "Well I am a little. When I placed Sai on Naruto's team it was with just such a hope in mind. Now because of him we finally have what we need to move forward. It's almost like watching an investment payoff."
"Do you think he is still alive? By sending his headband he may have tipped his hand."
"I hope so," Sarutobi said. "But if not we can only do our best to make sure his is the last life Danzou takes."
"How long will you need?"
"Your Anbu are already in the process of moving into position to watch the hidden Sleeper Root Agents that Shibi's new beetles have identified. They'll keep them under observation until tomorrow night to make sure Root doesn't suddenly burst into a flurry of activity indicating they know we are onto them because of Sai. After that, it will be Danzou's turn to experience a night like the Uchiha did," Sarutobi said, his tone indicating how sad he felt it was necessary.
Tsunade nodded, but blushed as her former teacher said, "By the way have you seen Jiraiya. I went to his Hotel but they said he never checked out but that he didn't return last night."
Glad she was facing the window as she was sure her entire face was red she said, "I think I know where to look for him."
"Ah yes, the hot springs," Sarutobi said, "I'm sure he'll grow out of that one day."
Having been thinking that Jiraiya was still in her bed, she thought to herself, "He better still be in my bed and not peeking at the hot springs or Kami help him he'll wish I killed him when I caught him that one time."
Unaware of his former student's thoughts he said, "Be ready for my sign for when it's time to move in. I'll leave informing Jiraiya to you."
Sai placed the finishing touches on what he suspected would be his last painting. Smiling at the picture, it had started with him standing by himself giving a smile. He had then painted in the team he had trained with while growing up in Root on one side of him. He had found it fitting, as although he didn't truly realize it at the time, they had formed bonds with each other. If he did have a regret, it was that he never got the chance to tell them how much those bonds had meant to him. Next he had drawn in Naruto, followed by the rest of Team Zabuza.
As he had drawn Team Zabuza in, Sai remembered when he had wanted to abandon the other teams as they had fought Orochimaru, and how Naruto had told him that Konoha shinobi stood by their companions no matter the cost. He hoped Naruto would be proud of him for adopting that philosophy as his own and hoped he would be reunited happily with his mother.
After finishing Team Zabuza in the picture, he realized that he had formed bounds with other people simply by being a part of Konoha. Therefore he added in the Third Hokage, Sakura, Hinata, and Kakashi. He smiled gently as he added the last person seeing the many threads that connected him to something greater than Root.
He was glad he finished as he sensed the shinobi preparing to enter his room. Guessing his time was out he smiled as he thought of something Zabuza had once told him. "Sometimes death is almost certain and in those times I believe the best way to possible go out would be to take as many poor saps with you as you can. I mean seriously, why should you die alone?"
Putting his brush down he smiled as he prepared to put his sensei's words into action. After all, every Root member he killed here would be one less threat against his friends later.