A/N: okay, so as usual, wanna say thanks to y'all who've been readin' this and big thanks to y'all who've added this as their fav, alert, reviewed etc. etc… next, I'm just happy to see that this got over 10,000 hits, tho sure, most might be those that got intrigued at first but then decided not to continue but I'm happy anyway… hey, it means big for an amateur like me, so yeah…
Right-o, next I wanna say a big big thanks for Morcalivan7 who's been kind enough to point out all da confusing and off shits offa this imperfect fic, my only defense: I'm an amateur, n this fic is on a whole other timeline than the manga, just the start which was from after team Kakashi met with Sasuke in Shippuuden was only supposed to put you where to begin n then it's a whole different plot from here on out… then if there's some misplaced fact such as the borders between countries, I'm sorry, I didn't do a thorough research… my bad… just put up wit it for now since it's already this far anyway… so yeah… sorry yeah!
Also last thang, I'm sure many, if not all, of you wonder what happened with Sakura well, I'm sorry, I've got to let you wait for another at least 2-3 chapters, then I'mma dedicate a whole chapter explaining everything, happy? Hahaha… so without further ado, enjoy a freshly edited chapter 7, a whole lotta shit's goin' on here mayn, fasten yo seatbelts! Lol…
Disclaimer: y'all know da drill, I ain't owning any Naruto shits, and if there are any similarities with other works, it's just pure coincidence, I'd never ever steal other's idea without at least referencing it to them, WORD!
Chapter VII- The Tension
"S-Sasuke…" the copy ninja said, a sweat crawled near his right eye.
Sasuke didn't say anything apart what seemed to be a scoff and a mutter, "Tch, Kakashi…"
The two shinobi jumped back to avoid contact with each other and to reorganize their strategy. Kakashi's clones were already dispelled by Hebi who stood behind Sasuke, waiting on stand-by.
Karin then asked the Uchiha avenger, "What do we do, Sasuke-kun?"
"Nothing, just stand back and let me handle this. It shouldn't take too long…" Sasuke replied coolly. Kakashi scoffed for being underestimated by his former student but he left it at just that.
Seeing how Sasuke hasn't made his move yet, Kakashi decided to buy some time by gaining some information, "What a surprise… I didn't expect to meet you here out of so many other places, Sasuke-kun… may I ask your intentions?"
"Hn… it is none of your concern, Kakashi-sensei… prepare yourself" Sasuke glared at Kakashi, his stare became colder as their eyes met each other's.
"That's not a very nice thing to say, now is it?" Kakashi replied casually as he took his battle stance but stayed still before continuing. Kakashi thought for a moment and decided to ask again, "Are you… looking for Naruto?" Kakashi wanted to ask if Sasuke's looking for Itachi at first, but decided to ask the least possible question as Sasuke looking for his older brother was already a well-known fact that needs not to be asked.
Sasuke reacted slightly from Kakashi's assumption and smirked, "How in the world could you always come up with what your opponents think? I guess you're not called copy ninja for nothing…"
"Well one thing for another, looks like my guess is correct… unfortunately I won't let you do that, Sasuke-kun. However, seeing that I'm in a hurry, I might let you go… I don't have time to deal with you right now…" Kakashi replied with a serious tone which made Sasuke twitch in anger.
Sasuke gritted his teeth after what Kakashi said, "Don't underestimate me, sensei… if you don't have time for us, then move…" Sasuke glared dangerously at Kakashi who remained calm.
"Well actually, I can't do that… work reasons… and as a matter of fact, you are in my way… I suggest you turn back and start running away like you always do, Sasuke…" Sasuke immediately snapped and stormed at his former teacher with impatience and hatred.
Kakashi could dodge Sasuke's attack easily and tried to land a kick but the black-haired deserter seemed to have already predicted that and blocked Kakashi's kick in time.
Sasuke took out his Kusanagi sword and thrust it toward Kakashi's neck. Kakashi managed to duck and tackled Sasuke, who moved away swiftly before the tackle reached him and then he swung his sword again. Kakashi evaded it once again and this time he decided to step back.
Once he was outside the sword's perimeter, Kakashi took a handful of shurikens and two kunais. He threw the shurikens and performed a hand seal, his mouth biting on one of the two kunai while he held the other one.
"Shuriken: Tajuu Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!" the handful shurikens suddenly multiplied as they headed toward Sasuke. The Uchiha avenger raised his sword and deflected all the shurikens swiftly without breaking a sweat. (A/N: Shuriken: Tajuu Kage Bunshin no Jutsu-basically means mass shadow replication shuriken technique or something along the line…)
After he deflected the last one, he focused back to where Kakashi stood only to find him missing. Sasuke looked around to find the grey-haired jonin only to notice something coming at him and then jumped backward as two kunais with explosive tags on it dangerously hit where Sasuke was and blew the tree branch to pieces, sending debris everywhere.
Sasuke and Kakashi landed on another tree branches and stared at each other, trying to read each other's mind. As Kakashi panted slightly, he began to think, "Damn, this is going to be a long one…"
Somewhere near the remnants of Otogakure, a sudden and huge explosion soared to the clear sky. The forest around the explosion burnt in a flash as two figures leapt through it, as the explosion's smoke dissipated, the two figures maintained their distance against each other.
A white haired old man panted slightly but stayed alert at the same time, "Damn, he's been dodging my attacks all the time… if this keeps on going on, I'll definitely lose…"
His opponent grinned and slipped his tongue out mockingly at him, "What's the matter, Great Jiraiya-sama? Can't keep up?"
Jiraiya snapped at his opponent's remark and performed another seals, he bit his thumb and performed the summoning seal, "Kuchiyose no Jutsu!" a mid-size toad appeared out of nowhere and Jiraiya stood on its head.
"Watch your mouth, boy. I am not called one of the legendary Sannin for nothing!"
"Hmph… well let's see you try, oh great legendary Sannin…" Kabuto sneered mockingly as he moved out once again to avoid Jiraiya's attacks.
In Konoha, the situation became rapidly tense. The streets and rooftops were filled with masked people, ANBU. The villagers were starting to wonder if something had happened, it's not everyday you see the entire ANBU force to come out in the middle of the day.
"There's nothing to worry about, this is a simple simulation. Go about your business…" one of the ANBU captain said dismissively at a resident who was staring questioningly at him.
The villagers reluctantly went about their business although the atmosphere was very tense, some decided to go home and lock themselves in until the ANBU disappeared from sight.
"Ibiki-taichou. The Tokubetsu ANBU are ready, they are waiting for your orders, sir" A coated ANBU reported on top of the Hokage Tower.
Ibiki turned slightly and nodded, "I'll be right there" he replied and stared forward, to the scenery. He sighed and put his mask on. It was slightly different than the usual ANBU mask. Instead of an animal, it was plain white with a small symbol on its forehead, which looked the same as the tattoo that every ANBU has on their left arm, "Guess there's really no choice…" and he went down.
In front of the Hokage Tower, an ANBU squad was standing tirelessly, awaiting their new leader to brief them. They all wore the standard ANBU attire with two katanas and an addition of two small katanas or wakizashi. The wakizashis were strapped on their waist and the other two strapped on their back. Aside from the additional two katanas, this squad had two distinct features which differentiate them with normal ANBU, there were their mask and protectors. (Katana: Japanese sword, wakizashi: short sword)
Their mask was similar to that of Ibiki's but they have a black and white side in a Ying Yang form, the black on the right and the white on the left. Their protectors were also a tad different, instead of a simple pale grey color; it was fully black with a small white symbol on it. Each person's symbols differ with another; there are symbols that showed the Hyuuga clan's the Aburame clan's and even the Nara clan.
In total there were 20 people, most of them having the Hyuuga clan's symbol on their protectors. After another minute, Ibiki appeared before them.
"I am Morino Ibiki, your new captain. I will not waste time in unnecessary introductions. Here is your first mission: Secure Hyuuga Hinata. Proceed as discreet as possible, and then bring her here. Your time limit is until dusk. Dismiss!"
"Ha!" the 20 special ANBU replied in unison before they dispersed.
Ibiki stood there, staring at his men and muttered, "I hope you'll forgive me for this, Hiashi…"
Back in the forest with the sharingan users, Kakashi and Sasuke had fought for well over an hour. Kakashi's breathing had become very hard and sweat was covering his face, his breathes could be slightly seen through his mask as he breathed out.
Sasuke on the other hand was barely sweating; his sword was sheathed. He eyed his former mentor coldly with pity, barely shown mercy nor sympathy, "Hn… is this what the copy ninja Kakashi worth? I'm disappointed…"
Kakashi didn't reply, he was still trying to catch his breath back. Kakashi wasn't wounded, but he had been forced to use his sharingan more than what he could handle. As Sasuke stared at him, Kakashi took his time to recover his strength by closing his sharingan eye and stayed alert with his normal eye.
"Yeah well, sorry for ageing…" Kakashi sneered jokingly.
"I'll tell you one last time, sensei… move out of my way or I'll kill you" Sasuke stated seriously.
Kakashi stared at Sasuke for a moment before replying with a hidden smirk, "Hm, make me, brat"
Sasuke's eyes widened in anger and a huge killing intent was instantly released into the atmosphere. It all happened too fast, a few seconds after the released killing intent; Sasuke disappeared from Kakashi's sight and reappeared behind him with an empty hand aiming to his heart.
Kakashi immediately looked behind him but it was too late. Sasuke's chakra manipulation technique was faster as it went through Kakashi's heart.
Blood was spurting in the air in a slow motion.
Inside the Hyuuga compound, the Hyuuga heiress had been locking herself in her room ever since Sakura's confession. She had been crying for days, blaming herself for being slow, heartless, insensitive, and stupid.
Her father, Hyuuga Hiashi had been worrying for his precious daughter and demanded for an explanation. However when nothing came, Hiashi stopped trying and decided to let his daughter alone for the time being, hoping she'll come to her own senses very soon.
Hyuuga Hinata was a mess. Crumpled tissues were all over the place, rustled sheet and pillow stained by tears. Hinata curled up on her futon bed and cried silently some more. (A/N: futon is a Japanese-style bed)
"Snif… Na-Naruto-kun… I'm so sorry…" she croaked between sobs.
She would have kept on muttering to herself if her little sister hadn't knocked on her door. After a few knocks, Hanabi let herself in. Her face showed worry.
"Ane-hue… can't you talk to me?" she asked almost pleading. (A/N: ane-hue is equivalent with onee-sama which means big sister in a higher form of respect)
"Hanabi-chan… I'm sorry, but I can't… I'm sorry for worrying you…" Hinata replied with a smile as she sat up on her futon.
"… Are you sure?" Hanabi asked again, she knew that something must be done to return her sister's smile once again.
Hinata nodded once and gave a fake smile at Hanabi, who frowned at her big sister's reaction. She stayed silent, hesitating on either dropping the subject or keep on asking her till she gives up. Hanabi decided to let it go.
She looked at her big sister once again and gave a sad smile in return, "… okay then… if you need anything, call me okay? I'll be in my room…" Hanabi said as she approached the door and closed them after Hinata nodded.
Hinata's room was silent once again, although she couldn't see, but Hinata was sure that Hanabi was still standing in front of her room. She stared at her bedroom's door and muttered, "…I'm sorry, Hanabi-chan…"
Hanabi who was still standing in front of her sister's room, sighed as she looked up toward the cloudy grey sky. She closed her eyes for a few moments before heading off to her room, without knowing the strange and discreet movements creeping from behind the shadows.
"Taichou, we're in position" someone whispered from behind a big tree.
"Proceed as planned" another person whispered commandingly, receiving replies with a quick whisper from many other people.
In Sunagakure, the tension was rather calm and relaxed, unlike in Konoha. Temari and Naruto were still hanging out together, they've even gotten closer everyday. They train together, eat together, and walk together. If you hadn't known them better you'd think they were a couple.
"Mmn… the breeze feels so good in here…" Naruto said as he stretched his arms and felt the breeze blowing through his face.
"Mn, yeah… it feels like it's been so long since I last felt such a good breeze…" Temari added, feeling her hand stroking through her loose shining and silky blonde hair.
They were once again on top of the sand dune which was one of Temari's favorite spots, they had been training in the morning, eating at noon, talking and walking around during the afternoon, and now their last activity of the day, relaxing on top of a sand dune.
The setting sun shined both Temari and Naruto's already shining blond hair, the gentle breeze still gently blew. They both stayed silent as they enjoyed watching the setting sun in Suna. Temari however, was about to be lost in thoughts unknowingly and meet with a certain fox demon.
She closed her eyes in a second and the red Suna scenery that she was looking at suddenly changed into an endless dark dimension the moment she opened her eyes again. She hastily stood up and looked around; her expression showing pure surprise.
"Wh-where am I?"
"… Inside my cage…" a grim voice echoed throughout the dark dimension.
Temari jilted and searched for the direction of the voice. When she couldn't anything, red particles started to appear around her and slowly forming something, "… W-who are you?!"
The red glow slowly became a solid form and stared Temari with its cold and intimidating eyes, white sharp and shiny fangs threatening to devour.
"It is me, female… Kyuubi no Kitsune. I don't have much time, so listen well" Kyuubi said in urgency, Temari couldn't help but to listen. Although Kyuubi gave off feelings of fear and intimidation, Temari couldn't help but feel calm at his presence.
"Be prepared. Soon, very soon, Naruto might break. You can stop him, or even prevent him from breaking… keep watch of him, female… if you don't want to lose your precious one that is… remember, keep watch of him…"
Temari was about to ask Kyuubi of its intentions, however the dimension broke apart and Temari suddenly ended back to where she was, sitting on top of a sand dune with Naruto, looking at the scenery of Suna at dusk.
When she snapped back to reality, Naruto was already beside her, holding her shoulders and looking worried, "Temari… Temari! Are you alright?"
Temari who was still feeling slightly dazed could only let out a small 'huh?', but not for long, "… Na-… Naru… to?"
Naruto sighed in relief, knowing that his blond companion came back to her senses. He slumped back to the ground, right beside her, "Thank God you're alright… what happened? You suddenly passed out…"
"I… I did? How long was I…?" Temari asked and Naruto quickly replied, "… well not long… around 3 to 5 minutes I guess… seriously, what's wrong? Are you tired?"
Temari flushed red and placed her hands on her cheeks, she could feel her cheeks burning. Naruto was oblivious to Temari's reaction, but then she suddenly remembered what happened.
She was deep in thoughts once again, but she seemed fine so Naruto didn't bother, "… wait, so what was that all about? Kyuubi? Its asking me to watch over Naruto? Break? What does Kyuubi mean?"
Temari turned toward her blond companion and looked at him in the eyes; Naruto did the same, although rather confused, "… something doesn't add up, but if that was really Kyuubi, then Naruto must be in danger! I must protect him!" she thought and resolutely made up her mind.
"Naruto!"
"Uh, yeah?"
"Starting tonight, I'm sleeping with you!"
"WHAAAT?!"
Somewhere near the remnant of Otogakure, Jiraiya the Toad Sennin was having quite a hard time on capturing Kabuto, who had been evading all of his attacks successfully. Jiraiya panted heavily as his kuchiyose no jutsu was dispelled. Kabuto was still standing mockingly on a tree branch, looking down at Jiraiya who was on his knees on the ground.
"Ara… you don't look too good, Jiraiya-sama… Maybe I should take a look at you? Hmm?" Kabuto snickered at Jiraiya, who grunted and prepared for his next strategy.
Kabuto's smirk widened as he waited for Jiraiya to chase him futilely once again. Much to his dismay, Jiraiya stayed still. He couldn't read what was going on through Jiraiya's head.
Jiraiya slapped his hands together and smirked, "Hmph, don't underestimate me, boy. Just because you're a few years younger than me, doesn't mean you can do as you please… you'd better start making your prayers, Kabuto"
Slowly, the area around Jiraiya started to shift around, the earth cracked and the wind blew strongly in every directions. Jiraiya muttered some incantation and closed his eyes. Kabuto stayed in his position, bracing himself against whatever might be coming.
When the wind and cracking stopped, Jiraiya still had his eyes closed but nothing happened. Kabuto who was confused at first, then sneered, "Hn, what were you trying to do, Jiraiya-sama? I don't think a small gush of wind and earth-crackling is enough to beat me, you know?"
Jiraiya smirked at Kabuto's statement, "Huh, then you have no chance of winning against me, boy…" "Huh?"
Jiraiya suddenly opened his eyes and slapped his hand together once more, "Ninpou: Gama Sennin no Jutsu!" (A/N: basically means like… something along the line of… ninpou: toad sage technique, savvy?)
A loud explosion made an impact around Jiraiya, but Kabuto could dodge it in time. He landed on another tree branch a few meters behind him; Jiraiya was still in his sight, "what the hell?"
When the smoke dissipated, a figure revealed itself in front of Kabuto. It was still in the same position as it was, but the next second it suddenly appeared a few feet right in front of him. Said medic nin was stunned and was about to jump back but the half toad half human figure was much faster than him. Before Kabuto could make his jump, his hand was caught and held tightly by said figure, who in turn just sneered and spoke with a grim voice.
"I won't let you runaway anymore… I hope you've made your prayers, boy"
"Uu… Uwwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaghhh!!"
Back in the forest, the battle between Sharingan users was about to end. Kakashi was directly hit by Sasuke's chakra manipulated sword. Blood spurted from his mouth and chest, Kakashi's vision began to blur as he coughed up some more blood.
Sasuke stayed cold and silent, he hasn't dispelled his chakra manipulation technique but push it in even deeper instead. He jerked and shifted his hand, forming two seals. The next moment, chakra swords emerged everywhere from inside Kakashi's body; stabbing him from the inside.
Sasuke dispelled his chakra sword and Kakashi's body slumped to the ground. When he hit the ground, Sasuke looked down at his former sensei. He stared silently and opened his mouth to speak, "… Will you stop playing, sensei? I told you I don't have time for this…"
Kakashi's body suddenly turned into many leaves, it was a genjutsu. One of the leaves was falling slowly right behind Sasuke. It changed into Kakashi who had a kunai ready at hand and charged straight at him.
Sasuke almost failed to notice the attack, but Karin warned him just in time. Sasuke bent down as Kakashi swung his kunai. Their Sharingan met with each other once again and Kakashi noticed something different.
"…Sasuke… your Sharingan… masaka…" (A/N: masaka is like something along the line of 'don't tell me…' n stuff…)
Kakashi snapped back from his thought as Sasuke launched a back kick to Kakashi's side. The white-haired jonin noticed but he was too late to evade it; he braced himself for the impact. When it never came, Kakashi suddenly felt a hit on his other side and was sent flying to another tree.
Kakashi quickly recomposed himself and stood on guard, catching his breath yet once again. He looked at Sasuke for a moment then smirked behind his mask, "Heh, looks like I managed to nick you…"
Sasuke looked at him coldly but ran his fingers on his cheek, where a shallow small cut was made. His fingers felt the warm blood coming out and he looked at it, temporarily looking away from his opponent.
Sasuke looked back at Kakashi and smirked, "Hm, now we're talking…" Sasuke readied himself once again and was about to strike anytime.
A few feet away from the battleground however, they all didn't notice a well-concealed presence. It was hiding well within a tree, and then it came out a little, revealing his head and something like a Venus flytrap around it.
"…Now that's interesting…" "Hm, I think so too, shall we tell him then? Itachi-kun that is…"
The black side of the figure formed what look like a smirk and went back inside the tree.
Back in Konoha, nearing dusk, the ANBU forces were still covering the streets and rooftops. Tsunade has been feeling very uneasy ever since she decided to execute her plan. She's been holding onto her necklace in her office when somebody knocked.
Tsunade looked up and answered, "… enter…"
The door swung open to reveal Ibiki with two Tokubetsu ANBU guards standing behind him. "Reporting in, Hokage-sama. We have brought Hyuuga Hinata as you commanded."
Ibiki entered the room and his two guards stepped aside to let the Hyuuga heiress in. She reluctantly entered the room, her entire body shaking slightly. Her face showed worry and fear. But once she saw Tsunade's face, she calmed down a little.
"Hm, Gokuro, Ibiki. Now listen for your second mission. You too, Hinata. You are going to assist them in this mission. You won't like it, but I don't have many choices…" Tsunade said sternly, causing Hinata started to tremble slightly again. (Gokuro: Job well done)
"Hokage-sama, forgive my rudeness but may I ask you something before we go on?" Ibiki asked as he bowed his head. Tsunade gestured him to continue.
"Why make the Special ANBU force to secure Hyuuga Hinata?"
Tsunade leaned back to her chair and rested her arms on the arm chair, "… are you implying why I made the Tokubetsu ANBU secure Hinata when I can just ask her to come here by herself? Is that what you're implying, Ibiki?"
Ibiki could only nod in silent, Hinata was confused and stayed silent until Tsunade replied, "… just to test your abilities, the Tokubetsu ANBU is, in a way, one of our village's last trump card and was never meant to be used unless the situation was dire, hence a simple kidnapping would certainly be a perfect warm-up, don't you think?"
"K-kidnap-…?!" Hinata let gasped, but then decided to shut her mouth. Ibiki didn't seem to be satisfied with her answer but decided to just accept it. After seeing that Ibiki understood, Tsunade continued.
"You both are to…"
"… Stay put in your positions until they come. Everyone understand?" Shikamaru just finished debriefing his friends, but soon noticed that something's missing. "Hey, I just realized… where's Hinata?"
Everybody looked around and started to wonder too. "Hey, that's right, Hinata's not here… Where is she?" Kiba asked, still looking around futilely.
Lee looked around and spoke, "Yeah, normally if it's Tenten we'll never even realize whether she's here or not but Hinata??"
"HEY!" Tenten yelled, clearly feeling offended.
"Hinata-sama hasn't been out from her room ever since that day… she hasn't been feeling well lately as well… it's starting to worry me too…" Neji replied calmly but his voice said differently.
Shikamaru sighed and muttered his infamous sentence, "God, it's so troublesome…"
"Should we tell Hinata about this?" Tenten asked after beating Lee with a bloody barbed-wire baseball bat. Lee was lying on the background with blood and bruises all over with the barbed-wired baseball bat up his ass. (A/N: Lee's fans! I'm very sorry for this but I just couldn't get that joke outta my mind, ya know… Tenten being forgotten, I needed a black sheep and well, the only one close enough to at least have talked with Tenten's either Neji or Lee, so black by popular demand, I decided to choose Lee coz it'd be weird to see Neji with a barbed-wired baseball bat up his 'noble' ass, right? Though it would certainly be funny to see Neji with a baseball bat up his ass… but in the end, in this story, not gonna happen, sorry!)
"I don't know if we should, Shikamaru… she's been locking herself up and I don't think…" Neji said but Ino cut him off, "No! We should! She'll feel even sadder if we leave her out of this! At least we should tell her about it then see for ourselves if she's fit to join us! Beside, the more the better, right?"
Ino blurted out her opinion and earned everyone's attention, she turned a bit red due to the amount of attention she got. "W-what?"
"… We could check on Hinata and tell her about it. It wouldn't hurt just to take a little detour and waste a little bit of time… I don't think they'll be coming anytime soon, at least not until it gets dark…" Shikamaru said a bit unwillingly, "what make you so sure that they won't be coming anytime soon?"
"… Experience and logic…" Lee and Kiba was definitely lost while Shino and Neji just rolled their eyes, Shikamaru decided to stop right there before turning his attention back toward the others, "any objections?"
To everyone's surprise, Neji raised his hand. "I say we leave Hinata-sama be, she'll understand", Shikamaru smiled slightly and asked again, "Any other objections?"
When nobody raised their hands, he spoke, "to be perfectly honest, I agree with Neji. From what I just heard, I can imagine that she's too unstable…"
Everyone thought about it deeply before realizing that he's right. It wasn't only Hinata but them too; they were put in a very difficult situation. They wanted to help both Sakura and Naruto because they're both their friends.
In the end, they all agreed to leave Hinata out. Shikamaru and the other moved out as soon as they agreed. They were heading toward the Haruno Residence, once again.
In the border between the Hi no Kuni and the Kaze no Kuni, the Akatsuki were still waiting in stand by for their leader to return. When silence and no movements were made, Zetsu approached the Uchiha murderer slowly. (A/N: Hi no Kuni literally translates to land of fire, while kaze no kuni literally translates to land of wind, savvy? And in this fic, Land of Wind and Land of Fire are not separated by another country! So they ARE having a border now! Hahaha, I just had to do it…)
"Hey, Itachi… I've got some good news for you…" the white side of Zetsu's face said with a grin. Itachi looked at him from the corner of his eyes, "what?"
"Guess who we just spotted a few miles nearby…" this time the black side of Zetsu's face spoke, Itachi stayed silent but replied nonetheless, "Who?"
"Sharingan Kakashi and… your little brother…"
"Sharingan Kakashi and… your little brother…"
Both white and black Zetsu said in unison. Itachi gave his full attention to Zetsu although only his eyes moved.
The other Akatsuki also shifted their heads to look up at the two speaking Akatsuki, apparently they were interested in the subject.
Itachi still looked at Zetsu from the corner of his eyes until he finally turned his head to face Zetsu completely, "where?"
Zetsu grinned.
Konan looked from the corner of her eyes and stared at Itachi. "Don't take too long, Itachi"
Itachi stared at her for a split second before tapping his hand on Zetsu's Venus flytrap and turned his back around to walk away. He didn't say anything apart a mutter that apparently the other didn't hear.
"… So it's time…"
As Shikamaru made his way to the Hokage Tower, the rest went ahead to Sakura's house. Coincidentally the ANBU weren't posted anywhere near her house which made it easier for Neji and the rest to go there and set up the traps.
They quickly set up the traps in ten meters proximity and stood by around her house. Although they knew that it's pretty much useless, but they had at least a chance to buy Shikamaru some time.
"You'd better hurry, Shikamaru…" Ino said, clutching her chest.
Shikamaru however couldn't make it as easy as his friends did. Along his way, ANBU stood on patrol, although most of the time they let Shikamaru passed, but sometime they'd stop him for security purpose.
"Aaagh! I told you already! I just got back from a mission and I'm about to report back to Hokage-sama! Just let me go already! Jeez, so troublesome!"
"Look, I don't give a damn about your damn report, chuunin! This area is off-limit, you can't go in unless you have permission directly from the Hokage herself!" the ANBU said strictly.
Shikamaru was about to speak once again when another ANBU came in and stopped him. It was Yamato.
"Let him in, he's got permission from Godaime Hokage-sama." Tenzou said lying at his teammate, who was about to protest but when Tenzou showed him the permission letter, he grunted and disappeared behind the shadows.
"Damn, this is why ANBU's so troublesome…" Shikamaru sighed as Tenzou just chuckled, "But thanks, Yamato-san. If you hadn't showed up, I might have taken drastic measures which I prefer not to take in any case"
Tenzou stared at Shikamaru half surprised but then smiled, "Hmph, guess there's some advantages on being a genius huh?" Shikamaru just smiled back and went ahead toward the Hokage Tower.
"Everyone, hang in there, I won't be long…"
Kabuto screamed in pain and agony as his shoulder got dislocated by Jiraiya strong pull. The white-haired Sennin ignored Kabuto's agony, his hand still holding onto Kabuto's wrist. Just then Jiraiya pulled his hand and Kabuto who was on his knees stood once more, holding onto his dislocated shoulder with his free hand.
Kabuto was breathing heavily, his face covered in sweat, and his body was trembling, "… w-what are you?!"
Jiraiya said nothing and landed a punch on Kabuto's stomach which caused Orochimaru's right hand man to cringed and coughed up blood. Jiraiya finally let go of Kabuto's hand and stared at him quietly, and replied, "… Your nightmare…"
Kabuto glared at Jiraiya from the corner of his eyes, his body was still shaking out of fear and out of pain. While Jiraiya stood there silently, Kabuto used his medical ninjutsu to heal himself, but proved difficult with the effect of Jiraiya's blow. It disrupts the flow of chakra which is essential in medical ninjutsu.
Kabuto coughed up some more blood and Jiraiya spoke again, "… it is very regrettable to use this childish move against you…"
Kabuto paid little attention to Jiraiya and focused on using his chakra for healing his injuries. "… Ghh… Childish? This?!" he groaned.
"You might still be vast asleep inside Kabuto, Orochimaru… but you're awake to me… and I won't make the same mistake as I and Sarutobi-sensei did… again…"
Jiraiya raised a fist up high to the air, ready to thrust it down toward the injured medic nin, who just gritted his teeth, "This time, you're going to die for real… Sayonara, old friend…"
Jiraiya thrust his fist down and a loud impact could be heard from miles away. However, Jiraiya had not expected this at all.
Instead of a crushed body of Kabuto, he found himself cut deeply in many places, still in the same position after he landed the blow. Blood spurted freely from everywhere from Jiraiya's body. He coughed up blood and his jutsu was soon dispelled.
Jiraiya fell backward and cringed in pain. When he looked up, he didn't see Kabuto. It was still Kabuto's body, but the person he saw was none other than Orochimaru.
Jiraiya's eyes went wide as he saw Orochimaru looking at him with a rather exhausted yet serious face, his Kusanagi sword at hand. That moment reminded them of that time when they fought together in the forest, when Orochimaru defected from Konoha.
Jiraiya was breathing heavily in turn as he was seriously injured while Orochimaru also appeared to be very exhausted. Then Orochimaru gave a creepy smirk and spoke, "… h-heard you were about to… kill me, huh, Jiraiya…" he said panting.
Jiraiya regained his composure and talked back, "… I think I was, old pal…"
"Hm, y-you know you can't… kill me, Jiraiya…", "… Maybe I can't but we'll never know till we try, won't we?", "Hn, you and your childish logic…"
Both Sannin stayed silent for another few seconds before Orochimaru cringed in pain and panted heavily, "huh… I guess you did quite a number on me… what was that jutsu, Jiraiya?"
Jiraiya breathed steadily although he could still feel the pain, "Hn, as if I'm going to tell you…"
Orochimaru sneered and spoke, "Kukuku, you're right… that jutsu doesn't actually interest me anyway… its form isn't beauti-… Uuh…" Orochimaru cringed in pain once again and stared at Jiraiya with very exhausted eyes.
"Huh, guess I'll take my leave now if… if you don't mind" Orochimaru said as his presence started to dissipate and Kabuto's slowly taking place.
"Khh… shit!" Jiraiya cursed, he couldn't move his body.
By the time Kabuto returned, he was still injured and exhausted. However, his eyes showed signs of being victorious. Jiraiya noticed and growled, "Hn, so you forcefully woke him up huh? Sneaky bastard…"
"Heheh, Jiraiya-sama, it is but a battle, of course there is no such thing as being unfair now is there? But now if you permit, I'll take my leave, o' great Sannin"
Jiraiya spat at the ground beside him as Kabuto turned around and walked away.
He thought up of some plan and after estimating his chakra reserve, he decided to call Gamabunta. He slowly performed hand seals and after the last seal he muttered slowly, "Kuchiyose no Jutsu…"
Gamabunta appeared and Jiraiya was lying down on his head, "yeah, yeah I know, Gamabunta… just take me back to Tsunade and I'll explain along the way…"
Gamabunta complied reluctantly and quickly headed toward Konoha knowing that Jiraiya's injuries were very serious.
"… Eh? B-but…" Hinata tried to find the right words but it never came. Ibiki stood behind her looking dumbfounded too.
Tsunade said nothing and just stared from her seat. Then Ibiki spoke up abruptly, "Godaime-sama, forgive my rudeness but, I thought it was for dire situations?! Why are we being sent to secure two chuunin? Hokage-sama, you know very well our abilities…"
Tsunade looked at him and replied calmly, "Ibiki, I know the full extent of their abilities, thank you. And for your information, this is a dire situation. We should not take Naruto's matter lightly. Or have you forgotten already that Kyuubi is inside him?!
Ibiki was about to talk again but Tsunade was faster, "Ibiki… your team is needed to secure Haruno Sakura in the safest place possible, with little attention as possible… and to make your mission easier, you'll need Hinata acting as decoy. I am sure that those kids will take action by themselves, hence Hinata as the decoy. She'll be able to divert their attention from that girl for a split second; you can do that can't you? Beside, you'd better not underestimate those kids, especially Shikamaru… they're all the future protectors of Konoha for God's sake, they are bound to surpass us…"
Ibiki gulped and was speechless but managed to stay calm, he wouldn't let a sweat fall down because it shows a sign of weakness. His eyes showed uncertainty but at the same time it also showed a sense of duty. Ibiki nodded politely and backed down, standing quietly like before.
"Go-Godaime-sama… I…" Hinata opened her mouth again, trying to speak up. Tsunade noticed and decided to speak first and hugged her, "I know Hinata, it must be hard for you but please, do it for Sakura and Naruto's sake…"
Hinata yelped a little and stared at the ground, "I… I…"
"Hyuuga Hinata. This is a B-rank mission for you. Distract everyone who comes near Sakura's house then retreat with Ibiki once the Tokubetsu ANBU has successfully secured her!" Hinata yelped softly and became quiet, but nodded.
"What should I do?"
A/N: there you go, hope y'all ain't confused with how it steadily changes scenes every now and then and I hope that y'all r satisfied as well for now, more battles are coming up ahead as well as complications, I hope you all haven't forgotten about Sai yet (grins). So yeah, more to come! But for now, you know the drill… holla!
Oh yeah, before that, if there are some Japanese expressions/words in here that I haven't translated yet, you can looked into it from earlier chapters, I know I have translated them, it would certainly be too much if you still don't understand if you're into anime and manga and stuffs… no offense btw…