I do not own Naruto or Boruto; those manga's rights belong to Masashi Kishimoto and Ukyo Kodachi. Nor do I own or claim ownership of the world map created by Michael-Madlock. This story is just for fun and isn't part of the original properties. Please, enjoy.

Chapter 3: The Sacrifice

Anko packed her camp at dawn, finished her rice crackers, and dashed east through the trees. Her stomach growled as she leaped across the branches and thought of finding a small town where she could eat a real breakfast.

The morning sun cast dappled light through the canopy, painting patches of golden warmth on the dark green foliage. The gentle rustling of leaves and the melodious songs of birds filled the air, creating a symphony of nature's harmony. Looking around, Anko felt the surrounding forest reacting to her presence.

Birds fluttered from their perches, startled by her sudden appearance. Squirrels scampered away, their tiny paws racing along the branches around her. Even the leaves seemed to whisper secrets as her lithe form brushed against them in passing.

She relished in the vibrant energy that pulsed through the forest, a testament to the interconnectedness of all living things. In these moments, surrounded by the untamed beauty of nature, she felt most alive.

Untamable…

After a few hours, the forest gradually began to thin, and Anko burst through the final barrier of foliage, emerging into a clearing where a small town stood bathed in the sunlight. Her chest heaved with heavy breaths as she approached the structures.

The town exuded a serene charm, with its modest houses, tiled rooftops, and a central square bustling with activity. Anko's eyes brightened as the aroma of freshly cooked food wafted through the air, teasing her senses and further fueling her determination to find sustenance.

Anko made her way through the narrow streets, her keen eyes scanning for a suitable eatery. Colorful signs and tantalizing scents beckoned from various establishments, making her decision all the more challenging.

Finally, her gaze fell upon a humble ramen stand tucked in a corner. The inviting aroma of steaming broth and the lively chatter of customers drew her closer. The sound of her footsteps on the wooden floor caught the owner's attention, a middle-aged man with a warm smile.

"Welcome!" he greeted, his voice filled with genuine hospitality. "Take a seat. What can I get you?"

Anko smiled appreciatively as she slid onto one of the stools. "A bowl of your special ramen, please," she replied, her voice tinged with hunger. "Extra spicy."

"Coming right up," he said, nodding as he prepared her order.

As Anko waited, she savored the lively atmosphere around her—the clinking of bowls, the animated conversations, and the occasional burst of laughter.

Soon, a steaming bowl of ramen was placed in front of her, the aroma tantalizing. Anko's eyes gleamed with anticipation as she picked up her chopsticks and took the first mouthful. The burst of flavors danced on her palate, warming her from within. It was a perfect blend of spices and richness, a testament to the chef's skill.

As she enjoyed her meal, Anko thought about her journey. She had yet to cross the border to the Land of Hot Water, and the hideout she was searching for sat in the heart of the country. Kerumi's face flashed in her mind, and Anko shook her head.

With her hunger satiated, Anko left the ramen stand behind, bidding farewell to the friendly owner. She carried with her the satisfaction of a delicious meal, a small but meaningful interlude in her journey.

As the sun set, Anko dashed through the forest branches, the rustling of leaves accompanying her every step. She wiped the sweat from her brow, and Orochimaru's face flashed in her mind. Suddenly, a gentle breeze carried a warm, inviting scent to her senses.

Curiosity piqued, Anko followed her intuition and veered off her intended path, venturing deeper into the forest. The sound of flowing water grew louder, drawing her closer to its source.

As she emerged from the foliage, her eyes widened. Before her lay a hidden gem nestled in a small clearing—a pristine, shimmering hot spring. Steam rose gracefully from the crystal-clear waters, creating an ethereal atmosphere.

Anko's exhaustion was momentarily forgotten as she cautiously approached the hot spring, her eyes scanning the surroundings for potential dangers. Sensing no immediate threat, she knelt by the edge, her fingers grazing the surface of the inviting water.

She marveled at the sight before her; the serenity of the hot spring captivated her. The peaceful ambiance wrapped around her like a comforting embrace, inviting her to find solace and healing within its warm waters.

Anko made a decision. She shed her clothes and gear until she was left naked in the clearing. With purposeful steps, she entered the hot spring, the soothing warmth enveloping her tired muscles.

As Anko settled into the water, her eyes drifted shut, and tranquility washed over her. The stresses of her ninja life faded, replaced by a deep sense of peace and connection to the natural world.

Time slipped by unnoticed as Anko basked in the hot spring's embrace, her mind finding moments of clarity and reflection. The water's gentle caress became a balm for her weary soul and rekindled her spirit.

But just as Anko began to lose herself in the serenity of the hot spring, a rustling sound disrupted the calm. Her eyes snapped open, alert and focused.

She heard rustling in the nearby bushes. "Who's there?" she called out cautiously.

As Anko's voice echoed through the clearing, the rustling ceased, and a brief silence enveloped the area. Anko's senses heightened, and a hint of irritation flickered across her face. She had hoped for a moment of respite, a reprieve from her journey, and now her privacy seemed invaded.

Just as she was about to dismiss the disturbance as mere wildlife, a figure emerged from the bushes with a sheepish grin on his face. It was none other than Jiraiya, the legendary Sannin and renowned pervert.

"Ah, Anko! Fancy meeting you here!" Jiraiya exclaimed, attempting to maintain an air of nonchalance despite the flush creeping up his cheeks.

Anko's eyes widened, her initial surprise morphing into fury, "Jiraiya? What the hell are you doing here? And why are you spying on me while I'm bathing?!"

Jiraiya scratched the back of his head; his grin faltered under Anko's intense gaze. "Well, you see, I was just passing by and happened to catch the enticing aroma of the hot spring. I couldn't resist the opportunity to take a dip myself, you know, for research purposes."

Anko's eyebrows furrowed, her annoyance intensifying. "Research? You're always up to no good with your 'research'!"

"Alright, alright, you caught me. I apologize, Anko. I should have respected your privacy," Jiraiya chuckled nervously.

Anko crossed her arms. "Well, don't just stand there! Get out of here, and let me bathe in peace!"

Jiraiya nodded, a hint of remorse coloring his features. "Of course, Anko. I'll leave you to it. Again, my apologies."

Anko watched Jiraiya disappear into the forest and sighed loudly.

As if he's just gonna go away…

Pulling herself out of the hot spring, Anko shivered slightly and approached her backpack. There was a towel folded up with her clothes. She pulled it from her pack and began drying herself off.

Moments later, the forest reverberated with Jiraiya's boisterous laughter in the distance, a stark reminder of his unyielding antics. After drying herself off, Anko dressed and placed her towel back in her pack.

She headed in the direction Jiraiya had left in.

Her steps were purposeful as she walked toward the alcove where Jiraiya had set up camp. Her expression held a mixture of annoyance and curiosity, unsure of what to make of Jiraiya's presence after their encounter at the hot spring. She approached the small fire, its crackling warmth a welcome contrast to the chill that clung to her damp skin.

Jiraiya glanced up from the fire, his eyes meeting Anko's, and his sheepish smile remained. "Anko, I didn't expect you to follow me. Guess I can't escape your sharp instincts."

Crossing her arms, Anko asked, "What's your game?"

Jiraiya chuckled, his demeanor shifting from contrite to more relaxed. "No game, Anko. I promise. Just taking a breather, you know? Traveling can get lonesome sometimes, and I thought I'd find some company."

"What a lousy excuse," Anko rolled her eyes. "You're out here trying to get your dick sucked? I promise that spying on women won't get you there."

"You'd be surprised…"

Anko sat beside the fire, "Are all of you Sannin disappointments?"

Jiraiya nodded.

Anko sighed, "No hard feelings."

Jiraiya cracked a smile. "Why are you out here, Anko?"

Anko dug through her pack and pulled out the scroll Kerumi had given her. She handed it to Jiraiya and said, "Lord Third permitted me to hunt down Orochimaru."

Jiraiya's eyes narrowed as he absorbed the scroll's contents. His gaze shifted from the parchment to Anko, a look of concern etched on his face.

"So, the Third let you set off on this mission all alone?" Jiraiya mused, his voice tinged with caution and curiosity.

Anko nodded. "That's right. After all these years, I'm finally getting my chance."

Jiraiya's brows furrowed, "Anko, this is a dangerous task. Orochimaru is cunning and powerful. We'll need a solid plan if we wanna take him down."

Anko leaned closer, her voice lowered. "I understand the risks, Jiraiya. But I've spent years honing my skills, waiting for this opportunity." Anko raised an eyebrow and mused, "What do you mean 'we'?"

Jiraiya chuckled and handed the scroll back to her. "You think I'd let you take on this Eastern Hideout yourself?"

Anko grinned.

"I just so happen to be heading to the Land of Hot Water myself," Jiraiya explained.

"Oh, why's that?"

"I passed through there last week and heard the same story from several small towns. Teenage girls across the Land of Hot Water have vanished into thin air." He sighed, "I heard another story about a magical hot spring somewhere in that country that allows whoever bathes in it to speak with the spirits of their loved ones."

"That's ridiculous… A hot spring that summons ghosts?" Anko sighed.

"I believe someone, or a group, are exploiting grief-stricken girls with the promise of seeing their departed loved ones."

Anko stared at Jiraiya, "Do you think..?"

"I admit it sounds like something Orochimaru would do—prey on the emotions of defenseless people. But I think it would be too convenient if both of us happened to be searching the Land of Hot Water for Orochimaru." Jiraiya pulled a bottle of sake from his pack.

"Yeah, the girl that gave me that scroll wrote down that I likely wouldn't find him at the Eastern Hideout, but it could be one of his henchmen," Anko suggested.

"Perhaps," Jiraiya took a drink from his bottle and handed it to her. "Are you willing to team up for a while?"

Anko accepted the bottle of sake from Jiraiya, taking a sip to warm herself against the cool evening air. She mulled over the proposal, considering the potential benefits of joining forces. While initially irritated by his presence, she couldn't deny that Jiraiya's experience and skills could be valuable in their pursuit of Orochimaru.

After contemplating, Anko nodded and handed the bottle back to Jiraiya. "Alright. Let's team up for now. We'll track down those missing girls and bust down the door of the Eastern Hideout."

Jiraiya nodded, raising his hand in a mock salute. "Deal, Anko. We'll make quite the team."

"I hope you don't mind; I'm gonna sleep by your fire," Anko said and detached her bedroll from her backpack.

"Not at all."

"Good." She unrolled her bedroll and pulled off her sandals. Anko lay down and sighed as she stretched. "I'm turnin' in."

"Yeah, me too," Jiraiya nodded and placed the cork back in his bottle.

The campsite drew quiet, the only sounds being the gentle leaves rustling in the night breeze. As fatigue took hold of their bodies, their minds gradually quieted, allowing sleep to claim them.

Anko and Jiraiya found respite from their burdens in the peaceful darkness. Dreams and memories intertwined, both haunted and hopeful, as they drifted deeper into the realm of slumber.

As the first rays of sunlight painted the horizon, Anko and Jiraiya stirred from their slumber, awakened by the familiar call of duty. They picked themselves up from their bedrolls and packed up their belongings.

With their campsite dismantled and their gear safely stowed away, the pair exchanged a glance, a silent affirmation of their readiness to continue the journey. Without uttering a word, they took off in a burst of energy, leaping into the surrounding trees with agile grace.

Their bodies seemed to merge with the forest, their movements fluid and intuitive. Branches bent beneath their weight as they traversed the lush canopy, their speed, and agility a testament to their hones ninja skills.

As they darted through the branches, the wind rushed past their ears, carrying the distant scent of the Land of Hot Water. The pair pushed themselves harder, their resolve driving them forward.

The border of the Hot Water country loomed ahead, a symbolic threshold between the familiar and unknown. Anko's heart quickened with anticipation. Jiraiya, ever the seasoned traveler, matched her fervor.

Their synchronized movements carried them effortlessly across the final stretch, their bodies propelled by a shared purpose. With each passing second, they drew closer to the Land of Hot Water, closer to the mysteries that awaited them, and closer to their ultimate goal of confronting Orochimaru.

Finally, as they breached the border, Anko and Jiraiya landed gracefully on the ground, their momentum tapering into a controlled halt.

"So, any leads on this magic hot spring?" Anko questioned.

"Well, I know where it isn't," Jiraiya chuckled.

"Hmm, the Eastern Hideout is located in the heart of this country."

"Right in the middle?"

Anko nodded.

"Okay, let's travel around the heart of the country and see what we can find out about the missing girls. Oh, and I have an idea…"

"Oh, yeah?"

"Take off your headband. We need to make you look like a nice young woman and not a ninja."

Anko looked at her outfit, "You want to use me as bait?"

Jiraiya nodded.

"Well, I may not be a teenager. But I am a young woman," She stared at the Sannin.

Jiraiya chuckled, "Of course, of course. It's an idea, at least."

Anko untied her headband and stuffed it into her coat pocket, "So, what's the plan? I go around asking people about this hot spring?"

"I was thinking we could wait for someone to approach you," Jiraiya explained.

Anko nodded, "Alright. Let's go."

With their plan in place, Anko and Jiraiya set off, their steps purposeful and their senses keenly attuned to their surroundings. As they traversed the Land of Hot Water, they kept their eyes peeled for signs or information that could lead them closer to the truth behind the missing girls and the elusive magical hot spring.

Days turned into nights, nights into days as they journeyed through towns and villages, gathering information and listening to whispers from the locals. Anko blended seamlessly among the people; her demeanor was a mix of curiosity and innocence.

Anko donned a casual yet fashionable ensemble, carefully selected to blend with the attire of the local women. Her new outfit consisted of a lightweight, long-sleeved blouse in a soft pastel color adorned with delicate floral patterns. The blouse had a loose and comfortable fit, allowing for easy movement.

Paired with the blouse, she wore a knee-length skirt of flowing fabric colored like muted earth. The skirt's subtle flare added a touch of femininity to her appearance while being practical for daily life.

To complete the ensemble. Anko wore a pair of comfortable sandals, ideal for walking long distances without sacrificing fashion. The sandals had sturdy soles and straps around her ankles, providing stability.

Jiraiya, ever watchful, maintained a discreet distance, keeping a close eye on Anko's interactions. His spy experience and ability to read people would prove invaluable in identifying any suspicious characters or potential leads.

It was on the outskirts of a quaint village, nestled among the rolling hills and bubbling hot springs, that their patience finally paid off. Anko had been conversing casually with the locals, subtly probing for any mention of the magical hot spring or the missing girls.

A young woman, her face etched with sorrow and desperation, approached Anko hesitantly. Her eyes glistened with unshed tears as she whispered, "Are you… searching for the hot spring?"

Anko's heart skipped a beat as she met the woman's gaze, recognizing the deep longing in her eyes.

"Yes," Anko replied softly, adopting a compassionate tone. "I've heard stories about it. Can you tell me anything about it?"

"I-It's been weeks since my daughter went missing," the woman's voice trembled. "She believed in the rumors of the hot spring, you see. She thought she could talk with her father…."

"Please, tell me more," Anko's voice was gentle and encouraging. "What happened to your daughter?"

"She ventured to the hot springs hoping to see her father again," she choked on her words. "She wanted to hear his voice and be with him again… But she never returned. None of the girls who went to the spring did."

"I can't imagine the pain you must be feeling," Anko gently grabbed the woman's hands. "Where is this hot spring?"

"Not even ten miles southwest of here," the woman sobbed. "We haven't found anything there… But Kiyoka said that she had to be at the hot spring by midnight to talk with her father."

"Midnight? Then we can make it there in time," Anko said as she looked at the setting sun.

"Please, find my daughter and the others. Bring them back, or at least uncover the truth. They deserve peace." The woman cried uncontrollably now.

"I won't let you down," Anko embraced the woman.

The woman wrapped her arms around Anko, "I've gone mad with grief. You could be walking to your own vanishing," The woman warned.

Anko left the woman and ventured out of the town, Jiraiya following her but keeping his distance. She stopped and waited for him once the town was out of view, and he quickly jogged to catch up.

"What'd you learn?" Jiraiya questioned.

"This magical hot spring is not even ten miles to the southwest," Anko grinned. "The woman said that her daughter mentioned needing to be there by midnight."

"I see," Jiraiya placed his hand on his chin. "We have enough time to get there and scope the place out.

Anko nodded.

The pair dashed off, heading southwest toward their destination.

Anko and Jiraiya crouched together among the dense foliage of the towering trees, their forms blurred and concealed by the power of the Camouflage Jutsu. With the moon castling its gentle glow upon the landscape, they waited patiently for midnight, when Anko would venture toward the alleged magical hot spring, acting as bait to expose those who sought to exploit the grief-stricken.

The night air was still, filled only with the soft rustling of leaves and the distant sound of nocturnal creatures. Anko's eyes flickered over the landscape, searching for threats hiding in the shadows.

Finally, Jiraiya's watch struck midnight, and Anko rose from her hiding spot with calculated grace, her movements concealed by the shadows. She released the Camouflage Jutsu and made her way toward the hot spring.

Anko's steps were measured, her senses alert for any signs of danger. The forest whispered around her, the branches and leaves seeming to hold their breath in anticipation of what would come. As she approached the clearing where the hot spring lay, she felt a surge of adrenaline coursing through her veins.

Her heart pounded in her chest as she stepped into the moonlit clearing. The hot spring stood before her, its waters shimmering ethereally in the moon's soft light. She couldn't help but feel a sense of trepidation, knowing that danger lurked in the shadows, waiting for her to expose herself.

Alright. Show yourself, cowards.

With each passing moment, the weight of the silence grew heavy. Anko's eyes darted around, searching for any sign of movement, any indication that her presence had not gone unnoticed.

Suddenly, a chilling breeze swept through the clearing, sending a shiver down Anko's spine. She knew this was no ordinary breeze; it was a harbinger of the darkness that lay hidden in the forest's depths.

From the corner of her eyes, Anko caught a glimpse of a shadowy figure emerging from the surrounding darkness. He moved with eerie grace, their intentions veiled and their identity concealed.

As the moonlight shone down on the man, Anko saw the figure approaching her. The man was tall, with a thin frame marked by protruding bones. He had short blond hair spiked up on the sides, a few rebellious strands falling over his forehead like wisps of pale flame. But it was his piercing red eyes, deeply sunken in their sockets, that held an unsettling allure, like smoldering embers burning through the night. A solitary earring glinted from his left ear.

He stood with an imposing presence, shrouded by a long, dark cloak that cascaded down his form, its high collar framing his face in shadows. The fabric whispered in the wind as if echoing the secrets that this enigmatic figure held within.

"Hello, there," the man spoke chillingly quietly.

"H-Hi," Anko said, playing the innocent victim.

"Have you come to speak with the dead, my dear?" He asked as he stepped closer and closer.

Anko nodded, "My Daddy…."

The man nodded, "You've come to the right place, then."

"So, the rumors are true?" Anko asked excitedly.

"Yes and no," the man smiled slightly.

"What do you mean?"

"It isn't the hot spring that allows one to contact spirits. It is my special ability, my Kekkei Genkai," he explained.

"Kekkei, what?"

"That isn't important. I am Ryuki, a Priest. A follower of Jashin," Ryuki explained.

"Jashin? Who is that?" Anko questioned.

"Come, I'll answer your questions as we walk," he extended a hand.

"A-a walk to where?"

"To the temple, my dear. This is simply a meeting place, you see. Those lucky enough to be here at midnight can come to the temple and communicate with spirits," Ryuki smiled.

Is that where the girls are? This temple?

Anko accepted his hand.

Walking hand in hand, Ryuki led Anko out of the clearing and through the dark woods.

"How long has your father been gone?" Ryuki questioned.

"Three years."

Ryuki nodded, "I see. Well, you'll see him in due time."

Anko smiled, "Is it really true?"

"It is," Ryuki squeezed her hand.

This creep… She fought back a shiver and kept pace with the Priest.

Hand in hand, Anko followed Ryuki through the enveloping darkness of the woods, their steps barely audible as they weaved through the silent night. The anticipation grew within her, mingling with a sense of unease as she wondered what awaited her at the temple. Shadows danced around them as if the very fabric of the night considered to obscure their path.

As they ventured deeper into the woods, the faint glow of torches began to pierce through the black veil, casting an eerie illumination on the figures that loomed ahead. Anko's heart quickened as she caught sight of the gathering congregation, their presence ominous and enigmatic, clad in black robes that billowed around them like the wings of the night itself.

Ryuki's grip tightened subtly, urging her forward, and she complied, her eyes darting between the mysterious figures. Whispers swirled through the air, carrying a weighty aura of devotion and reverence. Anko's senses tingled with a mixture of curiosity and trepidation as she tried to discern the true nature of this gathering.

They reached the entrance of the temple, its ancient structure bathed in an ethereal glow that seemed to emanate from within. The scent of incense wafted through the air, mingling with the palpable tension that hung in every breath.

Ryuki led Anko through the grand doors, revealing a vast chamber adorned with intricate symbols and flickering candles. The space hummed with potent energy, a fusion of anticipation and hidden intentions. Figures in black robes moved with purpose, their faces obscured by hoods.

Anko's eyes widened, her voice barely above a whisper, "Who are these people?"

Ryuki's voice carried a note of reverence, "They are the devoted followers of Jashin, the deity we worship."

"Jashin?" Anko repeated, her curiosity piqued.

"Yes," Ryuki nodded, his red eyes glinting in the candlelight. "Jashin is the god of immortality and destruction."

Anko's mind raced, realizing the gravity of the situation. The missing girls, the rumors, and now this hidden temple. It all intertwined, painting a sinister picture.

As they moved deeper into the temple, Anko's gaze swept across a room, searching for any signs of the missing girls. Her heart sank as she spotted a room to the side, a door slightly ajar, revealing a glimpse of restrained figures within.

"Ryuki, what's behind that door?"

Ryuki's expression turned solemn, and a dark smile curled at the corner of his lips, "Those are the chosen ones, my dear. The vessels through which we offer our devotion to Jashin."

Anko swung a swift punch at Ryuki's head. He caught her wrist and smiled wickedly before striking her in the gut. Pulling herself from his grasp, Anko took several steps back as surrounding cultists closed in around her.

"Don't fight this, my dear. You're the last sacrifice," Ryuki grinned and raised his right arm. One of the cultists tossed a large double-bladed scythe that Ryuki caught. "Don't make this hard on yourself."

Anko quickly weaved hand signs, "Lightning Release: Lightning Ball!" She brought her hands together, and twelve orbs of yellow electricity appeared around her.

The cultists stepped back, and Ryuki's eyes widened, "You wield ninjutsu?!"

"I am Anko Mitarashi, a shinobi of the Hidden Leaf! Hah!" She controlled the balls of electricity, shooting them into the surrounding cultists.

The cloaked figures convulsed, and their clothes smoked as they collapsed. Ryuki darted forward and swung his scythe horizontally at Anko.

Anko leaned back, narrowly avoiding the deadly swing. The weapon whistled through the air, leaving a trace of ominous energy in its wake.

Regaining her balance, Anko countered with a swift and agile series of kicks, aiming for Ryuki's torso and legs. But he was no ordinary opponent. Ryuki evaded her attacks with surprising agility, his movements almost unnatural as he danced away from her strikes.

"You've got some skill, I'll give you that," Ryuki taunted, a twisted grin across his face. "But your resistance is futile. The power of Jashin will consume you!"

Anko's determination only grew stronger as she engaged in a deadly dance with her adversary. She could sense the weight of the lives that depended on her, the innocent girls trapped behind the door just meters away. She couldn't afford to fail them.

Summoning her chakra, Anko focused her energy into her legs and performed a high-speed dash toward Ryuki, instantly closing the distance between them. She launched a flurry of lightning-quick strikes, aiming to overwhelm him with speed and precision.

Suddenly, a thunderous crash shattered the air as Jiraiya burst through the temple wall, mounted on the back of a giant green toad. "Anko! I'm here!"

The cultists who had been charging toward Anko and Ryuki faltered, their attention momentarily diverted by the arrival of the legendary Sannin. Jiraiys seized the opportunity, unleashing a devastating wave of flames that engulfed the cultists, cutting through their ranks and scattering them like ashes in the wind.

Ryuki lunged forward, his scythe slicing through the air with deadly precision. Anko swiftly dodged to the side, narrowly evading the razor-sharp blade that passed centimeters from her body. She retaliated with a swift roundhouse kick, aiming for Ryuki's midsection, but he effortlessly deflected her attack with the shaft of his scythe.

Their movements were a blur of speed and agility as they exchanged a flurry of blows, each strike a testament to their skill and power. Anko performed a series of acrobatic flips, narrowly evading swings from the scythe. With a burst of speed, she closed the distance between them, launching a devastating knee strike aimed at Ryuki's face.

To her surprise, Ryuki caught her knee, his grip like a vice. She twisted her body and brought her free leg up, striking Ryuki's chin with a powerful kick that sent him staggering backward.

Landing on her feet, Anko regained her balance and thrust her left arm at Ryuki, "Multiple Striking Shadow Snakes!" She summoned ten snakes from her shoulder that sprang from her sleeve and ensnared Ryuki.

He struggled to free himself and wield his scythe as Anko lifted him into the air and slammed him head-first into the stone floor. The snakes disappeared, and Rykui collapsed into an awkward position.

Jiraiya had taken care of the other cultists and approached Anko with a grin, "Well done."

"This isn't over yet," Anko said, wiping sweat from her brow.

She turned her attention to the captured girls, resolving to free them from their confines and put an end to the dark cult's reign of terror.

To Be Continued