Kakashi woke up, recognizing the familiar white of a hospital room and sighed quietly.

"Ah, here again…"

He turned his head and began searching the room for his Icha Icha book, but he noticed a familiar red head resting on the side of his bed. He reached a hand up to his face, realizing that he wasn't wearing his masked shirt, and mentally panicked. Did she see? He somehow managed to sit up, though his body was still very weak and he grabbed his shirt from off the bedside table, quickly putting it on and narrowing his eyes at Shi, who was sleeping peacefully with her head on her arms. She had to have seen it.

Kakashi let out a soft sigh, a dark cloud hanging over his head, but as he glanced over at her, he couldn't help but smile slightly. Her scarf was hanging loosely around her neck, not so much hiding her face, but more there just for comfort. Her mouth was open slightly, just allowing one to see a sharp canine poking out, and her face was actually peaceful. Seems even she can look at peace every once in a while. Those two and a half years were good for her. He reached a hand out, but hesitated, his hand hovering over her head. Should I really be doing this? Growing more attached to her can prove to be dangerous… for the both of us. My reputation as the Copy Cat Ninja could put her in danger and when people discover about her origins… I could lose her. Something like a relationship between us could prove more trouble than it's worth.

Kakashi pulled his hand back, but he had a deep ache in his chest just imagining what could happen. It's impossible, Kakashi. Get that in your head, a relationship between ninja is always a bad idea and you probably couldn't handle a long term one anyway. Kakashi frowned slightly, but his hand had other ideas and slowly crept over to Shi, twirling a strand of her hair between his fingers. But I must admit that I care for her and she makes me worry sometimes. He let out a short chuckle. Okay, she makes me worry a lot, but maybe that's what I need. Someone to worry about and someone who worries about me. But a relationship between us may not happen for a while… She's still pretty clueless about my advances. Kakashi gave the sleeping Shi a small smile, when he sensed someone coming and quickly snatched his book from off the bedside table, putting on his usual bored expression and pretending nothing had happen, despite the fact that something did. Needless to say, he wasn't surprised when Sakura entered and fell for the act, her eyes going to Shi as she sighed.

"I should've guessed she was here." She grumbled, glancing at Kakashi, who just glanced at her over his book. "How are you doing, Kakashi-sensei?"

"Fine. Do you need Shi for something?"

Sakura nodded. "The Hokage wants her for a mission."

"Another one?" She's been going on missions back and forth since she came back. I wonder what's going on.

"Yeah. I kind of feel bad for her. She's been sleeping since yesterday when she brought you and Guy here. Tsunade convinced the nurses to let her stay with you, saying something about how she'll need all the rest she can get before her next mission."

"Hm. Sounds like it's important."

Sakura slowly nodded, eyes narrowed at Kakashi in suspicion. "You weren't… doing anything, were you?"

She's smart… "Hm? What do you mean?"

She slowly began to smile, an evil, mischievous grin. "You were doing something."

"I don't know what you're talking about, Sakura." Kakashi said, glancing back down at his book, calm, but mind in chaos. She's far too observant for her own good and she's been plotting things for a while now. Her convincing Naruto not to go with us the other day to get Shi a shirt was definitely a part of this.

"Uh-huh. Sure." Sakura said, moving to Shi and shaking her shoulder. "Shi, you need to get up. Tsunade wants to speak with you."

Shi's face scrunched up into a frown, before she lifted her head, glaring sleepily at Sakura who just gave her a look.

"I was sleeping."

Sakura rolled her eyes. "And now you're not. Come on, Shi. She is the Hokage."

Shi's frown deepened as she got up, stretching with a wide, open-mouthed yawn; revealing just how pointy those canines of hers were. As she scratched her head, she opened an eye and spotted Kakashi, who gave her a closed-eye grin.

"Have fun, Shi."

Shi scoffed, turning to leave, but before she closed the door, she turned back to him.

"I didn't see anything…" She turned away then, speaking over her shoulder. "Just thought I'd let you know."

She left then, the door closing silently behind her, leaving Kakashi surprised, before he looked back at his book with a soft smile. Seems I don't give her enough credit… Not just anyone would give up a chance to look under my mask. As he thought that, Shi sneezed, turning to glare up at his window from outside the hospital as she rubbed her nose. He's probably thinking bad things about me. She thought, before Sakura grew impatient.

"Shi! Hurry up!"

Shi sighed, dropping her head. "Yes, yes."

Sakura frowned. "You only need to say 'yes' once, Shi."

"Mm." Shi grumbled, before the two of them headed out.

Once at the Hokage's doors, Sakura knocked and they were let in, Sakura leaving soon after and Shi simply standing before the Hokage and yawning once more. Shizune, never pleased with Shi's attitude towards the Hokage frowned, but said nothing knowing that the red head would never listen anyway.

"Shi, I'm assuming you had a decent rest?"

Shi frowned, pulling up her scarf and gazing boredly out the Hokage's windows. "Would've been better if I actually got to sleep more."

"Shi! Show some res—"

Tsunade held a hand out, silencing Shizune, who had lost her temper.

"I would've done so if the urgency of this mission wasn't top priority."

Shi's eyes narrowed, growing serious. "And what is this mission?"

Tsunade smirked. As always, she knows when to get serious. "I have information regarding the possible whereabouts of one of Orochimaru's hideouts and I wish for you to infiltrate it and discover what you can, on your own."

"What?! But that's a suicide mission! Tsunade, you have to—"

"Shizune!"

Shizune flinched, going silent and bowing her head. "Apologies, Tsunade-sama."

Tsunade glanced back at Shi. "I am under the impression, that you are more than capable of performing this task, however, there is more to this mission… Team Kakashi is going to be in the area as well."

Shi furrowed her brows. "Is that wise? Sending, not one, but two people that Orochimaru would be more than willing to capture?"

Tsunade frowned slightly, hands steeple in front of her. "Are you doubting yourself and Naruto, Shi?"

"No. I am simply curious as to why you would send Naruto and I on separate missions that both involve Orochimaru."

"And who says they both involve him?"

Shi sighed, rubbing her temples. "Why else would they be in the area? I'm assuming they are the ones who are going to meet up with Sasori's spy?"

Tsunade smirked. "That is correct, however, you will not be getting involved in their mission. I have sent someone to replace Kakashi on their team, seeing how he is out of commission at the moment, and also someone else to make up for the lack of you and Sasuke. This person, however, will need to be kept an eye on."

"And why tell me this? Seeing as I am not involved in their mission."

"There is always the possibility that Orochimaru may show up where Team Kakashi is meeting up with the spy. That being said, the base would be near empty, allowing you ample opportunity to gather intel on Orochimaru and also Sasuke."

Shi narrowed her eyes once more. "And should I run into Sasuke, Team Kakashi, or Orochimaru?"

"You are not to engage." Tsunade said, seriously. "Should Team Kakashi need assistance, you will help, but should you run into Sasuke or Orochimaru, you are to abandon the mission and return. I am not willing to risk such an important asset over some information."

"To summarize," Shi said. "I am to infiltrate Orochimaru's base to gather information while Team Kakashi engages with the spy and possibly Orochimaru, himself, and should I come across Sasuke or Orochimaru, I am to take what information I have and retreat. Though should I run into Team Kakashi and they need assistance, I will provide it."

Tsunade nodded. "That's it, but there is one more thing."

Tsunade reached into her desk and pulled out a red, black, and white fox mask.

"You are familiar with the Anbu?"

Shi nodded, eyes zeroing in on the mask before looking at Tsunade in somewhat disbelief and disapproval. "You are not suggesting that I become one, are you, Tsunade-sama?"

She held up the mask and raised a brow. "Are you refusing?"

Shi appeared conflicted. "While I know it is a great honor that you would ask me to join… I do not believe I should… It does not sound like a pleasant lifestyle."

Tsunade tossed the mask to Shi, who caught it with an even more confused expression.

"But I just said—"

Tsunade waved her hand lazily. "You're practically Anbu already, Shi. Just take it."

"But Tsunade-sama, I feel as though I have cheated many other capable shinobi to get to this position. I should not have passed the chunin exam after not even participating and becoming jounin by pure recommendation is a bit—"

"Shi." Tsunade said sternly, shutting Shi up before she could say anything more. "It was my decision to promote you to jounin, even with Jiraiya's recommendation and it was the Third's decision to promote you to chunin, something he made a note of to happen even before you participated in the chunin exams. Now, I am not asking you to join the Anbu nor am I forcing you to. That mask is something I had made up for you should you decide to join the Anbu and as something to keep your identity a secret when you go on missions such as this, where it is necessary for you to hide who you are. Do you understand?"

Shi slowly nodded, looking down at the mask in her hand and back up at Tsunade.

"Does this mean…"

Tsunade gave her a look. "Yes. You have to take off your scarf for the duration of this mission and the only ones who will know of your identity while wearing said mask, will be myself and Shizune. The others are not to know. Not even Naruto and Kakashi."

Shi bowed her head once more and nodded. "Very well."

"Good. Now as far as the new Team Kakashi goes… while you will not be going on their mission, it's best if you too, meet with them. Yamato, the man who I have chosen to replace Kakashi, is the only other who will know of your unique situation."

Shi nodded, taking the mask and putting it into her pouch as Tsunade sighed.

"You will travel most of the way with Team Kakashi before breaking off on your own to infiltrate the base. And Shi?"

Shi looked up.

"Try not to end up getting into too much trouble." Tsunade grumbled. "I swear, your team seems to be a magnet for it."

Shi grinned, nodding. "Of course, Tsunade-sama."

She then disappeared with a poof, appearing outside the Hokage building and sighing loudly. What have I gotten myself into?

I sighed, sitting cross-legged on a set of stairs where I was supposed to meet up with the new Team Kakashi, using a set of chopsticks to scoop up some noodles and eat them from the bowl of udon I had bought on my way there. They should be getting here soon. They're lucky I actually knew where this place was though, or I wouldn't have shown up until a lot later. My sense of direction is still as horrible as ever. I slurped up some noodles and ate, feeling a sense of quite peace come over me as I cleared my mind of everything that had begun to bother me since I'd woken up and discovered what my newest mission was going to be. It was then though, that I felt a new presence, just barely catching a whiff of their scent as they passed over me and most likely sat above me. I couldn't be too sure though, because it was down wind of me, but the new scent had me intrigued. Ink… A writer perhaps? Maybe calligraphy? And paint… Hm, if this is the new person, I may just get along with them. Ignoring them for now, I went back to eating from under my scarf, content to just waiting for them to reveal themselves. I didn't have to wait long though, before the replacement for Kakashi showed up along with Sakura.

"Shi? You're coming too?"

I glanced up at Sakura with a bored look. "Only part way."

"O-Oh." She shuffled a bit, giving the new jounin a glance before settling for sitting beside me and speaking quietly. "Is that our new sensei?"

I nodded, slurping more noodles, but saying nothing even as the new presence I had sensed before jumped down from the roof and stood nearby, a fake grin painted on his face. He didn't say anything either and we all waited until Naruto decided to show up, taking one look at the new guy and getting angry.

"Hiya." The new boy said.

"Y-You!"

Sakura seemed surprised they knew each other, but I just assumed that they bumped into each other and the new boy embarrassed Naruto somehow.

"Um… From now on, Team Kakashi… I'll be taking Kakashi's place as—" Yamato didn't get a chance to finish before Sakura interrupted him

"Naruto, do you know this person?"

"Sorry about before." The boy said. "I just wanted to gauge the ability of my new team member. I just didn't know how much I'd have to look after the little prick with no balls."

I stopped, hand hovering with noodles hanging off the chopsticks and blinked a few times at this new boy, surprised not only at what he had done, but also at what he had said. And I thought Naruto had some foul language…

"What did you say?!" Naruto flipped out, Sakura having to hold him back.

"Hey! He's our teammate now! Cool down!… but you're… not that nice…"

"Ahaha, really? I like people like you, friendly crones."

Seeing that this was just going to be how he acted, I went back to eating.

"You what?!" Sakura shouted, now being the angry one.

"Hey, remember what you just said to Naruto?!" Yamato said, him having to hold Sakura back now.

Seeing that they weren't going to calm down for a while, I decided to do something about it and began radiating murderous intent, catching their attention as I glared at them.

"Behave. I'm trying to eat."

Naruto and Sakura frowned, but my glaring seemed to do the trick and they stopped, leaving me to go back to eating. I like my mealtimes to be peaceful. They both know that, so they'll behave… for now…

"Anyway… From now on, the four of us are on a mission, Shi will be tagging along as well, but will split up with us at a later time. But look at you. There's no time to toss you all in a cage and get you used to each other. So introduce yourselves."

"Naruto Uzumaki." Naruto grumbled.

"I'm Sakura Haruno." Sakura said, equally as grumpy.

"My name is Sai." The new boy said, a fake grin still on his face.

"I'm Yamato." The new sensei said, before gesturing to me. "And as I already said, this is Shi."

I gave Sai a lazy salute, hand still holding my chopsticks as my eyes searched for more noodles. "Yo."

Yamato, Naruto and Sakura all sweatdropped, but moved on.

"Well, now that we know each other, that's the end of that. Now, I'll explain our mission. Shi, since you already know the mission specs for yourself and us as well, you're free to go. We will assemble at the front gate in one hour."

I nodded, standing, but walked towards Sai, standing in front of him as he just smiled back. I reached out and took his hand, holding it out in front of him before placing a dumpling in it, confusing the rest of the team. He, obviously wasn't too sure how to react, but I helped him out.

"Welcome to the team." I said, before disappearing in a proof of smoke and showing up at my apartment door.

He's an interesting character. Didn't once drop that smile. I thought, packing my things into my pouch and bringing a backpack, to look the part, when in reality it was just weighted down with a large block of stone that helped with my training. Maybe he just doesn't know how to express himself… If so, I understand… I let out a small sigh and lifted the weighted pack over my shoulder, deciding to check up on Sai, just to see how he was doing. Thing was, he was a pretty hard guy to follow. I had his scent though and soon came across an apartment complex, landing in a tree nearby. I was going to go in, but I spotted an Anbu jumping in, engaging him for a brief moment before handing him something. Focusing on my hearing, I tried to listen in, already knowing that Sai was the one that the Hokage had been worried about.

"Okay, you have been assigned a top-secret mission. Make sure to carry out the intentions of Danzou, the man who will ensure our village's future."

The Anbu glaring in my direction suddenly, but I was smart and used substitution on a stick beside me with a cat I had spotted below. The cat jumped out of the tree and onto the roof, but he provided my cover and I continued to listen.

"Also, failure is not an option."

"I know."

Now, technically, I could've left then, taking the information I had discovered and reported it to the Hokage or Yamato, but I stuck around. My cover hadn't been blown, and for all I knew, they might spill something more.

"You're still carrying that around with you?"

I wasn't sure what the Anbu was talking about, but it didn't seem too important at the moment.

"In 'Root' you have no name. You have no feelings."

"You have no past. You have no future. All that exists is the mission."

No wonder all he does is smile like that. He's been trained to do that for who knows how long.

"The unseen ones who support the great tree of Konoha from the depths of the earth, our intentions as 'Root'… Don't forget it."

"Yes."

The Anbu left and Sai went back to packing, so I went ahead and made myself scarce, heading to the Hokage's office to give her a heads up. I had to wait my turn though, for Sakura was already there and Danzou himself showed up. Tsunade already noticed my presence but since she didn't say anything, it was alright. Once the two had left however, she called out to me.

"Shi. You have something to report?"

I got up from my crouch outside her window and leaned into the room. "I caught Sai having a conversation with another Anbu member."

"What was it about?"

"He's doing a top-secret mission for Danzou. He was handed an envelope, but I wasn't close enough to see what it contained other than documents."

"Did you hear anything else?"

I shook my head. "The only other thing I heard was the Anbu telling him failure wasn't an option and him calling Danzou 'the man who will ensure our village's future'."

Tsunade nodded. "I see… Continue to keep an eye on him and report anything you gather to Yamato while you are out. You're dismissed."

I nodded and poofed off, landing outside my favorite dango and sake place and grabbing something to go before walking to the gates, not too far away. When I arrived, everyone was already there and Naruto still didn't look too pleased, though Sakura was looking slightly less annoyed. Well, Tsunade did have a talk with her. Perhaps that changed her view on how to handle things.

"Shi! You're late!" Naruto shouted, pointing at me before spotting the dango stick I pulled out from under my scarf. "And what's that?!"

"Dango." I murmured around my food.

Sakura and Yamato sweatdropped.

"You're getting more and more like Kakashi-sensei, Shi." Sakura said, shaking her head. "And I don't think that's a good thing."

"Right then!" Yamato said, feeling the tension rolling off everyone in waves. "Team Kakashi departs!"

We walked in tense silence for a while, managing to make it to a different area of forest before things started to heat up again. Sai seemed to have enough of Naruto's staring and finally pointed it out.

"What is it?"

Naruto didn't say anything and I watched them from behind, curious to see what was going to happen.

"Please stop staring at me. Don't make me hit you."

Oh, I like him already.

"Every damn thing you say just pisses me off more!" Naruto shouted, holding a fist up.

"I don't have any malice towards you."

"Liar!" Naruto shouted.

"I'm just trying to put on that kind of attitude."

"Aha! You do have malice! Why the hell are you here?! All you do is piss people off!"

I sighed quietly. And here I thought they were getting somewhere. Naruto's too thick to realize that everything Sai's saying is entirely true. He's been trained not to feel emotions so he probably doesn't feel malice. Mah, well let's see how Yamato handles this. He'll need some sort of training to learn to deal with them.

"Hey, hey! Don't say something like that right in front of your captain, Naruto. Teamwork and cooperation are the most important things in a team. I thought Kakashi had already taught you that. Someone like you in a team with the great Kakashi, what is it with you?"

It was my turn to sweatdrop then, understanding now what Yamato's lookout on this team was. He expected them to be amazing because he has such high hopes in Kakashi. Well, isn't he going to be in for a surprise…

"It's because he's not a member of Team Kakashi! The other member of Team Kakashi is Sasuke!"

I sighed again, knowing where this was heading.

"This guy is just taking Sasuke's place, someone chosen to fill the gap. I'll never consider someone like him as a team member!"

Sai grinned, something I knew would only end up making things worse.

"Well, I'm glad you think of me that way. I wouldn't want to be likened to the weak shit-for-brains Orochimaru clone who only cared about power and ran off to Orochimaru, betraying Konoha."

Well, not the best way to put it, but I suppose one would not exactly want to be compared to him when you make it sound like that…

"You bastard…" Naruto growled out, taking a step forward with clenched fists, but Sakura surprisingly stopped him.

"Truly, the most important thing is teamwork. Sai… Naruto… since he doesn't know you all that well, he just said too much. I'm sorry. Please forgive Naruto."

"S-Sakura…"

My eyes narrowed, putting away the rest of my dango and walking towards the group unnoticed.

"Mm, I'm glad at least one of you is reasonable." Yamato said, believing this to be finished.

"Think nothing of it." Sai grinned.

"Well, that's good." Sakura grinned as well, before suddenly throwing a punch aimed right at Sai's face.

"That really hurt, Sakura." I said with a slightly pained closed-eye smile, my chakra-laden hand holding her fist, Sai lying on the ground behind me.

Yamato sighed in relief, but Sakura and Naruto were looking at me in shock.

"Shi? Why did you—"

"Because, Sakura, Naruto. Teamwork is important, but so is understanding the others on your team." I glanced behind me at Sai too. "You too, Sai."

Sakura lowered her fist, allowing me to massage my poor abused hand as I went on speaking. Something I'd rather avoid, but it seems Yamato has a thing or two to learn about controlling these three.

"Sai, I suggest not mentioning badly worded things about Sasuke again unless you want to end up flattened."

Sakura and Naruto smirked, thinking they had won, but I rounded on them as well.

"Sakura, Naruto, you should not be so quick to anger, nor so quick to judge. Sai is just… very similar to myself when I first came to Konoha."

Sakura seemed to understand, looking at my own small closed-eye smile and then back at Sai as he brushed himself off. Naruto though looked less convinced, but stayed silent, allowing me to sigh and turn to Yamato.

"They're all yours."

He let out his own exhausted sigh, just as Sai began speaking, only signaling further arguments.

"You fooled me completely, Sakura, with that fake laugh before. I'll remember that." He said with another grin.

"You were nearly hit, why're you acting so cheerful?!" Naruto shouted.

I just began walking once more, this time, pulling out my dango and my Icha Icha book, hoping that perhaps they'd stop arguing when they realized I was going on ahead of them. Either that, or Yamato finally does something.

"A smile's the best way to get out of trouble. Even if it's fake." Sai said. "Amazingly, it fools everyone… I read that in a book before. It doesn't look like it works here though."

I could feel the tension rising when the ground shook and I turned to find Yamato standing, arms folded, in front of a large wooden prison.

"If you guys won't stop arguing, I'll have to toss you in a cage. I said we don't have time before we go to the Tenchi bridge, but there's five days."

It's about time. I thought, rolling my eyes and turning back around to keep walking as Yamato continued.

"As the mediator here, here's my proposition. You can spend a day or so in the cage to work out your differences, or we can go to a hotel that has a hot springs. What'll it be?"

Hot springs sound nice… I've been to some with Jiraiya and Naruto before but never went in the baths… I wonder how it'll turn out with my scars and all… Maybe a private bath… Do they even have those?…

"You guys don't really know me well either. I like being nice and friendly, but I don't have any problems with ruling by fear either… That… And Shi's already ahead."

I tilted my head back, turning it a bit to look over my shoulder at where Yamato was pointing at me, and spoke just loud enough for them all to hear.

"You're taking too long."

"Shi!" Naruto whined, running over and catching up to me as the others walked along as well, but he stuck around me for the rest of the walk to the hotel, obviously not wanting to be around Sai any more than necessary.

I dealt with it for now, already tired of the arguing, but once we arrived at the hot springs, I grabbed another set of clothes and followed the others out, though Sakura kept glancing back at me with a worried expression. I gave her a look, letting her know I knew she was looking at me, and she sighed quietly, coming close and putting a hand to her mouth to whisper to me and keep the others from listening.

"Are you sure you want to come in now?"

I gave her a confused look, to which she sent a glance at the others before looking back at me.

"I mean, you have scars, right? Are you sure you want people seeing those?"

"I care not for the thoughts of others, Sakura." I told her, earning a surprised look. "Their thoughts are meaningless compared to what I think of myself."

"W-Wow, Shi… That's… Just wow."

"You think?" I said, tilting my head. "I read it in my book."

She sweatdropped. "You don't mean…"

I held up the book in question: Icha Icha Tactics. Sakura immediately face palmed and then began shouting, attracting the others' attention.

"Why are you bringing that?! We're going to bathe! Go put it back in the room!"

I held it up above my head, keeping her from reaching it as I frowned under my scarf.

"But I want to read it."

"Are you kidding?! Do you have any idea what other people are going to think?!"

I scrunched up my brows, confused. "But Sakura, you shouldn't care about what others think. Their thoughts are meaningless compa—"

"Shut up! You already said that! Now go put it back!"

I shook my head back and forth violently. There's no way she taking this from me. And, not moments later, one could find me soaking in the bath, reading my book as Sakura blew bubbles in the water in frustration. The other women in the bath gave me a wide berth, having recognized the book and probably also being fearful of me due to the number of scars and the 'don't bother me' look, but that was fine with me. Just means I won't have to worry about anyone splashing my book. Just as I thought that, I caught a sneaky look from Sakura and did a quick couple of hand signs to not only stop her from splashing my book, but also cause a decent sized wave to knock her over into the water, thus ending her plots for the rest of the night. Though there was a point where we heard Naruto speak rather loudly, but I took care of that with the same jutsu I used on Sakura.

The next morning though was fairly quiet and I awoke to see Sai sitting outside with Sakura hovering over him. I smiled a bit, glad they were getting along, but silently knowing that it was better not to get attached to Sai. As much as he's like me, he's still someone I need to keep an eye on… I sighed, ruffling my already messy bed-head and got up, getting dressed and walking into the main room to find Yamato already dressed and heading out, Naruto still eating his breakfast. Yamato turned to me and sighed himself.

"Grab a quick breakfast and go get the others. I'll be waiting at the town's west entrance."

I nodded lazily, taking some food and eating it quickly. Once Naruto and I were finished, we grabbed our packs and headed out, though Naruto gave my backpack a look.

"Shi? Why'd you bring a backpack? Don't you have everything you need in that pouch of yours?"

I nodded, unzipping the backpack and showing him the block in there, making him pale.

"This is for weight training."

"Uh, h-how much does that weigh?"

I held it out to him as we walked out and he promptly fell on his face, before I picked up the pack and easily tossed it over my shoulder and onto my back as he got up.

"Man, Shi! That's freakin' heavy!"

I shrugged, not really feeling it and gave him a look over my shoulder.

"I train with Guy, remember?"

He paled once more. "B-Bushy brows?"

I nodded and he stayed quiet until we approached Sakura and Sai, just barely catching the end of their conversation.

"To be more accurate, it's not that I don't give them titles, it's that I can't. Not one thing comes to me. I just don't… feel anything at all." Sai said, before Naruto had to go and ruin the moment.

"Well, that sure explains why almost everything you say is so insensible."

I gave him a look, but what I saw made me smile a little. He feels bad about before. That's good. Maybe now they'll get along. I yawned then, catching their attention as I walked forward.

"We're ready to go. Yamato is waiting at the west entrance."

"Okay." Sakura said, stretching as Naruto looked over at the picture Sai had drawn.

"Hey. That picture, it's nothing special."

"Indeed. Just like your penis." Sai quipped back, making me smile just slightly.

Here we go…

"I'm going to be completely straightforward and honest! I absolutely hate you! If you have a problem with me, then quit it with the fake smile and start being straightforward and honest yourself! If you want to fight, I'll take you on anytime!"

"Naruto." I sighed, but Sai beat me to it.

"You don't understand. I just don't think anything of you, one way or the other."

Naruto continued to misunderstand as I sighed, scratching the back of my head. Maybe he'll figure it out soon. If he doesn't, I'll have to go through the daunting task of explaining it to him… And Naruto is one who doesn't understand things even if you do explain things. I saw Sai began packing things up and went ahead and helped him out, passing him things, when Sakura picked up a book.

"This… it isn't printed, is it? Did you draw this also?"

Sai took the book, protective of it. "Yeah."

"Oh really… A picture book, huh?"

Naruto scoffed and I smacked him upside the head, earning a glare that I returned with one of my own. Behave.

"Hey, would you mind showing it to me along the way sometime?" Sakura said, playing peacemaker.

"Actually I would. This book, it isn't finished yet. Also, I make a point of not letting other people touch this… because it's my older brother's."

I touched my scarf, understanding what he was feeling even if he didn't show it, and eventually we all headed out again, meeting up with Yamato and walking into a denser part of the forest just as night fell.

"This looks like a good place." Yamato suddenly said, stopping and bringing his hands together, wood coming up and creating a rather large house-like dwelling. "We'll be camping here tonight."

"Um, I don't think you can call this camping." Sakura said, but accepted it, heading in with everyone else.

I did as well, though I would've preferred camping outside, something I was used to and enjoyed on occasion. Though I did it not a few days ago while tracking the Akatsuki, but that was different. I sighed, setting my things down in a corner and shedding my traveling cloak as I prepared to rest. I'm going to need more rest than the others too, most likely. My senses need to be on alert once I'm there and I'd rather not be too exhausted to do anything.

"Everyone, gather over here for a bit."

I frowned, and glared at Yamato, who took once glance and chuckled nervously.

"Uh, not you, Shi. You can go ahead and rest."

I scoffed quietly, before sitting with my back in the corner, sword across my shoulder and traveling cloak over me in my usual sleeping position. It was hard to block out the group talking about Sasori, but I managed somehow and drifted off into a decent sleep. I say decent, only because I had gotten used to the constant nightmares Of course, the next day was full of wondrous team bonding, and by bonding, I mean arguing. Currently, Naruto had a fist full of Sai's shirt and was getting angry… again.

"What is it?"

"Do you know what the word 'companion' means?"

Sai took out a scroll and brush, writing the word down and holding it up, making me sigh. I seem to be doing that a lot lately. If they don't fix their teamwork soon, Kakashi won't be the only one with grey hair.

"Of course I know. What about it?"

"Hey, hold on, Naruto." Sakura said, obviously seeing how this could turn bad.

"Please don't lay blame on others for your own minimal amount of ability." Sai began, moving on to criticize Naruto and what had just occurred in the supposedly team bonding spar they had just had. "Had you not fallen for the captain's obvious provocation, I would have been able to stay hidden without being exposed. You went and had your clone transform into me, then made it obvious by using your own jutsu. It's not pleasant to fight while looking after someone who can't even keep himself in check. I just worked with the success of the mission in mind."

Naruto actually took his criticism better than I expected, simply shoving him away and turning around to get his things.

"I will never consider you a companion or a member of team Kakashi."

Yamato sighed, placing a hand to his head beside me. "This really was pointless, wasn't it…"

I pat him on the shoulder. "Least you tried."

Sai though, spoke up again, making things far worse by mentioning Sasuke. "What would Sasuke have done in that situation? Fought while looking after you? As a companion, and a member of Team Kakashi? The one who betrayed the village and injured you… You still refer to him as a friend?"

Naruto turned slightly, sending Sai a scathing glare. "If it's to save that friend, I'll do anything. Even work with you."

I turned away from the scene, deciding that I needed to get away from the tense atmosphere for a bit. I had found while training with Jiraiya that other people's emotions seemed to affect me more than it did with other people. So too much tension could cause me to be tense as well, and too much of anything could make it harder for me to concentrate on other matters. Like this mission. I thought, looking up at the leaves above me and reaching into my pouch, pulling out my own paintbrush and canvas. I didn't paint much anymore, having too little time and no inspiration, but when I did, I was surprised at what I came up with. Now, was no different. Instead of painting the forest around me like I thought I was going to do, I painted a small dark haired boy crying over the body of another white haired one.

"Shi. Captain Yamato asked me to come get you."

I glanced up, looking at Sai as he approached with a smile and I put away my things though Sai seemed surprised.

"You… draw?"

I shook my head. "Paint. Though… I find myself illustrating things I've never seen."

Sai seemed intrigued for a moment before returning that smile back on his face.

"I see."

Once my things were put away, I stood and came up beside Sai, walking next to him as we headed back to the others.

"Sai."

"Yes?"

"You should be a bit more… cautious of how you phrase things."

He looked at me seeming confused. "I do not understand."

"For instance, Sasuke is a bad thing to bring up. Naruto and Sakura are both hurt by what he did… bringing it back up will only compromise what little cooperation you three may have and could affect your performance on the mission."

"I see."

I nodded, glad he understood so far, and continued. "I understand you not wanting to be compared to him, but perhaps you could explain it differently. Instead of making him sound like a bad person, make you sound like a good one."

Sai thought for a moment. "So instead of saying he's a weak shit-for-brains Orochimaru clone—"

"You could say that you do not want to be compared to him for you are your own person with your own abilities."

He seemed to consider that and slowly nodded. "I believe I understand now, though change will be difficult."

I nodded, accepting that answer just as we returned and the atmosphere grew tense once more. I see. Yamato just sent him after me to get these two to cool their heads and since I was probably the only one who can deal with him. I hope things go well tomorrow when I'm gone. We walked and they somehow managed to keep from fighting the rest of the way; Naruto and Sakura keeping their distance from Sai, whereas I was usually put between him and the others. Once morning came, however, I packed up my things and said my goodbyes, telling them to try and behave if only to complete the mission. Surprisingly, the distance between the Tenchi bridge and the base wasn't too far and I put my scarf away and donned the fox mask, closing my tan cloak to hide any other noticeable clothing features I may have and removing my earrings for now.

This is it. If I'm lucky, then Orochimaru won't be here… or maybe that would be something unlucky. I'd rather have to deal with escaping from him than Naruto and them trying to fight him. I let out a long breath, clearing my mind of everything except my mission, and sent to work; entering the underground base and making sure to avoid areas that I could get caught easily. The set up was actually a lot like the base I had been held at and, with that knowledge firmly screwed into my head, things grew more mentally trying than I wanted. Come on, brain. Don't think about the memories, just try to sniff out information. I checked any rooms that smelled heavily like snake, not having caught Orochimaru's actual scent just yet, and only seemed to come upon empty rooms.

There were spare bedrooms, a deserted medical room, empty experiment cells, and at least three different rooms for Orochimaru's pet snakes; which I quickly high tailed it out of. After a bit more searching, I grew worried, feeling tremors in the ground. These tremors and the fact that I haven't caught Orochimaru's scent yet means they're probably fighting him. I want to help, but I haven't gotten anything yet and they should be capable of handling themselves with two Anbu members with them. And if not, I'm sure they're smart enough to know when to retreat. My worry grew though, when the tremors stopped, signaling that the fight was over and, should Orochimaru be alive, he would be returning. Thankfully, I discovered a room that could prove helpful, littered with scrolls and books. It may not be Orochimaru's room, but Kabuto's could be quite useful as well.

I began copying what information from Kabuto's records I could, stuffing scroll after scroll into my pack as quickly as I could fill them, before I heard voices and decided to make myself scarce. I exited Kabuto's room and upon discovering what direction the voices were coming from, I headed the opposite in the hopes that I would end up back near the entrance. When I reached the back of the base though, I realize that my assumptions had been wrong and instead, against better judgment, went towards the voices. I was able to recognize the sound of Kabuto's voice, but the other had me a bit surprised. Sai? But if he's here, then that means… I mentally groaned, but heard a door click shut and footsteps head in my direction. I quickly hid in a nearby room, just barely able to lock pick the door and make it in and shut it as footsteps rounded the corner. The only issue was, the room I had snuck my way into was full of snakes. Kami, I hate snakes.

Needless to say, five minutes later, one could find me nursing a number of snake bites and Orochimaru down a couple hundred snakes. As I came out of the room, wielding a kunai, and shut the door with a menacing glare. I hope those weren't ones he was using to test a new poison, or I might be dead in a few hours. I went down the hall to where Kabuto came from and was surprised to hear even more footsteps coming, though these ones were accompanied by three very familiar scents. What are they doing down here? Seriously? I glared and casually walked around the corner, alerting all three of them and causing them to draw their weapons until Yamato realized who I was.

"It's alright guys, he's one of ours."

I'm not a guy, but it'll work for my cover.

"Are you sure?" Naruto questioned. "He looks pretty sketchy to me."

Deciding to enjoy this moment while it lasts, and get a little revenge on Naruto for the multitude of pranks he played on me the two and a half years I was with him and Jiraiya, I put my speed to good use and was instantly behind him with a kunai to his throat.

"I could kill you in an instant, before you could even so much as think of death, but I won't. Do you know why?" I whispered sinisterly to him as he swallowed nervously. "Because I'm under orders to get out of here alive and your screams would give away my position."

I removed the kunai from his throat and headed over to where Yamato was, growling lowly under my breath. "What are you and your team doing down here? You could compromise my mission."

Yamato frowned, kneeling down to the door lock. "We had no choice. One of our teammates is a mole and met up with Orochimaru before following him here. We need answers."

"Answers are not worth lives." I growled back as he unlocked the door and peaked his head in.

"And look what we have here."

The four of us entered the room, myself closing the door behind us, leaving it cracked open, and earning a suspicious glare from Sai that I just ignored and he did as well.

"The Hokage controlled Anbu, impressive as always. To think that fake corpse wouldn't fool you."

"Why don't you tell us about what's going on here?" Yamato demanded, just before Naruto grabbed a hold of Sai's shirt.

"You! Why did you betray us?!"

"You shouldn't make too much noise here. It'll mean trouble" Sai said with a grin.

"Why you—"

"Naruto!"

Naruto reluctantly released Sai and Sakura pulled out a book, handing it back to Sai.

"Here. We found this. It's yours, I believe."

"Thank you."

"You're here under Danzou's orders, right? Danzou's planning something through working with Orochimaru and you were chosen as a go-between. What is it he's up to?"

Sai was silent.

"He's plotting the destruction of Konoha with Orochimaru… part two of it, right?"

"No, actually—"

Sai was cut off by Naruto. "We already all know your smiles are fake and the same goes for the lies you force through them!"

"My mission ended in failure the moment you found me and I can't very well take care of the four of you by myself. However," Sai sent me a quick glance. "Are you sure you want me speaking about this in front of someone else?"

Yamato nodded. "He's with us and already has knowledge of the situation."

The others in the room gave me a look, but I stayed silent, sticking to the door to keep an ear out for anyone coming.

"Very well. Since you already know so much, there isn't much reason to hide things anymore. Just as you say, we are going to destroy Konoha as it exists today."

"Why you…"

"In order to destroy Konoha, I was to gain Orochimaru's favor thus giving us a chance for us to ally with him. That was my true mission."

Yamato took out a kunai. "Keep talking. Now tell us everything you know."

"You… Do you even realize what it is you're saying?! What it means—"

"That's not everything." Sai interrupted. "I was also supposed to secretly transmit information on Orochimaru to Danzou. In other words, I was also assigned a mission of espionage."

Looks like I'm not the only one looking for dirt on this guy.

"So the mission was to ally with the enemy, then use and outwit him in the end… And that enemy is Orochimaru? Such a dangerous mission." Sakura said.

It's a good thing she doesn't know I was pretty much assigned the same kind of mission.

"Once Konoha falls, Orochimaru is guaranteed to betray us in the end, after all my mission was intended to allow us to always stay one step ahead of him."

"Danzou wants to make Konoha his own, obviously and you, on your own, were assigned a mission to make that possible."

Sakura seemed to become more and more disbelieving of what Sai was saying, probably questioning who it is that would make someone do this and why they would readily agree with it. There's nothing I can do or say that will help, but we need to hurry. I just picked up Kabuto's scent.

"I was singled out due to the special abilities I have. The ink I write with becomes small, living animals and protecting themselves from harm they carry the information out to their destination."

"If Konoha becomes the stage of a battle again, countless people will die! What you're trying to do is going to have very real consequences, but do you even understand that?!"

"Bah, I just follow my orders."

"Sai… you're…" Sakura's face dropped and I lifted my head from the door.

"We've got maybe ten minutes before Kabuto returns." I announced, moving back to the door.

"Just to let you know, 'Sai' is a name that was assigned to me merely for the purposes of this mission. In reality, I'm nobody. I am nothing more than a tool of Danzou. I don't really exist. As such, no matter what you say to me, it means nothing."

"In that case, tell me why you care so much about that picture book you carry."

That seemed to earn a reaction from Sai and he looked down at the book with an almost melancholy expression.

"The two children on the covers. That's you and your brother, right? You carry that because it is the only thing left that proves you really do exist, am I not right? It's the same with Shi and her scarf."

I glanced at Sakura out of the corner of my eye, my gaze hidden by my mask, as Sai lifted his own gaze in question.

"Shi has no memories before seven years ago. That scarf she always wears, it's the only thing she has from before that and she used to be just as emotionless as you. She didn't start smiling or anything until we managed to get to know her after a while, but they were there. You didn't managed to get rid of your emotions, despite what you say. Even for us shinobi, abandoning our emotions completely is impossible."

"Please explain, why would carrying this picture book or Shi's scarf serve to prove my existence?"

"The reason why you and Shi both refuse to let go of that book and her scarf, is precisely because you find yourself unable to forget your existence as somebody's brother and because Shi is unable to forget someone from her past that—though she may not remember them—she cannot ignore their existence. Do you understand why?"

Sai couldn't answer and even I was forced to turn away as emotions began to run high.

"It's because your bonds with your brother are very important to you, just as Shi's bonds to the person who gave her the scarf is very important to her."

I swear I saw something and smiled slightly under my mask, having spotted God painting a picture and look over his shoulder at me with a kind smile.

"The reality is, you don't want to erase the bonds between you and your brother."

"Bonds…"

"Sorry to say, but we took a little peek at the contents of that book." Yamato said. "The picture on the two pages in the center is the only part of the book left unfinished. Judging from the rest of the book, you would end up fighting your brother on those center pages."

Sai stayed silent and Yamato went on.

"Sai, I know that you were a part of Anbu's 'Roots'. And I know that Danzou has given you special training in order to relieve you of your emotions. Training identical to that of the forsaken tradition that were once practiced in the Village of Bloody Mist, Kirigakure. Sai, your brother was killed by none other than—"

"You're wrong!" Sai said, raising his voice ever so slightly. "I had intended to give this to my brother as a present but just when I was about to complete it, my brother… he died of illness."

I then remembered the painting I had done not a day earlier of a dark haired boy crying over another's frail body and I realized then, that what I painted had actually happened. It was Sai and his brother.

"We weren't connected by blood but he did compliment me on my drawings quite a bit. 'Roots' was filled with a great number of children that had been separated from their families due to battles and I became close to one of those children, calling him brother. About this picture book… the picture I wanted to show my brother the most, the one in the center, I… after my brother died… I just can't seem to remember what I was planning on drawing."

I pulled away from the door then, alerting the others. "We need to go, now. We have five minutes to round the corner and reach the end of the hall before Kabuto is within sight range."

Yamato nodded and we hurried out, Yamato leading and soon taking us to where he entered through the wall. It wasn't long before we were outside, but I knew we wouldn't have too much time before Kabuto found out what had happened and came after us. They probably would send experiments or subordinates, but those were back at the main base where I was located. I saw no signs of any experiments here other than the snakes. I felt my vision swirl suddenly and grit my teeth. Speaking of snakes. Looks like the poison's finally catching up. I felt my legs quivering and Yamato seemed to notice and gave me a look as he wrapped Sai up in wood restraints.

"You okay there, Fox?"

I went to answer, but blood bubbled up in my throat and I fell to my knees, hand over my mouth under my mask as I coughed up blood.

"Poison… Sakura! Can you treat him?"

Sakura, seemed a bit reluctant, but nodded and made her way over to me, hands glowing green as she began locating the poison and extracting it. After a while, I could tell that a majority of the poison was gone and I pushed her hands away, earning a surprised look.

"But I'm not finished! I still need to—"

"It's fine. I have a high tolerance to poisons and my blood should be able to combat it now."

I stood up then and made my way over to Yamato as he spoke with Sai.

"Unfortunately Sai, we're going to have to leave you here with my bunshin watching you."

Sai said nothing, but I had more important issues to bring up with Yamato and led him off to the side a moment.

"My mission is complete, however, there is a chance I could get more information. Though I am not willing to put your team into danger for this."

He nodded. "Understood, but now that we have news about Sasuke being here it is our opportunity to possibly bring him back."

I frowned, glancing over at Naruto. "Is that wise? While I am familiar with Sasuke, what I heard is he left on his own. I doubt he will come back willingly. A small team such as this may not be enough to combat him, Kabuto, and Orochimaru should it come down to it."

"Yes, but I doubt anyone will be able to convince him of that."

Yamato nodded towards Naruto who was more than eager to get back into danger.

"Now to get back to what we came here for. It's time to rescue Sasuke."

I sighed, but nodded. "Very well. I will provide my assistance, but should things get out of control, it will be my call as to when to retreat."

Yamato nodded in understanding as we both listened back in to what Naruto and Sai were speaking about.

"Do you really intend to go up against Orochimaru of all people, just for him… You're going to put your life on the line to bring him back? But why? It's not like you've been ordered to do this." Sai said, confused, would be my guess.

Naruto gave a tense smile. "Way back when, I used to hate Sasuke… but once I got used to being with him I realized he's really a lot of fun to be around… He's… He's the person that, more than anyone else, accepted me and my existence. Sasuke is my friend and he represents bonds that I waited so long to receive, so that's why."

"…Bonds…" Sai said, realizing what Naruto was saying. "Still, that's not much reason. Not if it means facing someone like Orochimaru."

Naruto grinned. "If I get my arms ripped off, I'll just kick him to death. If I get my legs ripped off, I'll just bite him to death. If my head gets ripped off, I'll just stare him to death. And if my eyes get ripped out, I'll just curse him to death. Even if it means getting torn to pieces, I'm going to take Sasuke back from Orochimaru. No matter what!"

Seeing that Naruto had finished his speech, he began getting ready to make a clone. Just then though, I lifted my head. The wind had shifted directions, carrying with it, a familiar scent.

"Move!" I called out, and everyone jumped back away from Sai as kunai fell all around him.

Landing before him was Kabuto and I felt a growl threatening to rip from my throat, but kept my feelings down for fear of revealing my identity.

"Sai, judging from your situation, I suppose this means you were captured."

Sai said nothing and mentally, I hoped that some of what Naruto had said had gotten through to Sai because he was now in the perfect position to help us capture Kabuto should he still be on our side. Kabuto released him and Naruto and Sakura prepared for a fight.

"This guy just doesn't give up."

"If you two are going to get in my way then I'm not going to be holding back!" Naruto shouted, two of his clones having been above Kabuto preparing a rasengan, only to get kicked away.

"So pointless." Kabuto said.

"Fights aren't decided 'til the very end, and we're just getting started!" Naruto continued to shout, making me wonder if this was how he handled all his fights.

"No, no. That's not what I'm talking about." Kabuto said mockingly. "Watching you makes me truly feel pity. People change. Sasuke is no longer the Sasuke you used to know."

Just then, I smirked, Sai having gone up behind Kabuto and getting him in an arm lock.

"What are you doing?!" Kabuto questioned, surprised.

"You say people change and here I am."

"What?!"

"But there are also things that don't change."

"Sai… What are—"

"Bonds." Sai said, cutting Naruto off. "I want to see what they're really made of."

I turned my head, moving to check the entrance that we came out of for Orochimaru's scent and finding it further in the base. Good. Seems like Kabuto's the only one who has caught onto us… for now. Yamato and the others came over and I gave them a nod.

"We're clear for now. Orochimaru is in the back of the base though it is still possible we may run into him."

Yamato nodded and we all reentered the base, stopping just inside so I could double check Orochimaru's position.

"We'll split into two teams to search for Sasuke. Sakura and I will form one, Naruto and Sai the other. If something comes up, focus your chakra. That will be more than enough to produce a reaction in the seeds I have in your bodies. I'll be there for you at a moment's notice."

"What about, uh, Fox?" Sakura said, giving me a look.

I returned said look, eyes cold. "I will be fine on my own. I still have my mission and I have a good sense of smell. I can keep track of where the enemies are and avoid them or find you should I need to… Also, this."

I reached into my cloak and tossed the radio to Yamato, putting one around my own neck as he did the same.

"I expect an update should you encounter anything before I do."

He nodded and we soon all split up. I kept an eye on everyone's scent, making sure that none of them were heading straight into trouble and I continued to search for some information. After a while, I checked the scents again, seeing that Sai and Naruto had stopped in one area while Sakura and Yamato were out of range. I checked my radio, calling him.

"Anything?"

"Not yet. Just empty rooms."

"Okay."

I then opened a door and grinned at my good fortune. I had found Orochimaru's study. I quickly began digging through files, copying information and storing it away, when I checked his scent and immediately stopping what I was doing. That's right by Naruto and Sai… Dammit! I had a choice to make now. Risk trying to gather more information in the hopes that Yamato would get to them in time or leave and try to reach them first. I hesitated, jaw clenched tight, when a voice came into my head.

"In the world of ninja, those who break the rules are called scum… but those who don't take care of their friends are even worse scum."

I smiled then, making my choice and leaving the room, hurrying towards the scents to find Sai's leaving the area. Why? Is he turning traitor? But before his emotions seemed credible. So then, what? Naruto he… that's it. He sent Sai to find Sasuke. I checked with Yamato then.

"Naruto's engaged with Orochimaru and it's possible he sent Sai to locate Sasuke." I informed.

"Alright. Are you closer?"

"No. You're closer to Naruto. I'm closer to Sai."

"Then we'll split up." His voice crackled over the radio. "You go after Sai and Sasuke. I'll catch up with Naruto."

"Very well." I said, hurrying towards where I could smell Sai and catching Sasuke's scent as well.

It took a while before I was close, but just then, Yamato's voice crackled again over the radio.

"Fox! He's not a go-between for Danzou and Orochimaru. His mission is the assassination of Sasuke! You need to stop him! Orochimaru is also after him!"

I cursed under my breath, letting Yamato know I received his message and I checked Orochimaru's scent. It was close, but not close enough for worry. On the other hand, Sai was just around the corner, Sasuke as well. When I turned the corner, Sai already had his head in a doorway and the last thing I heard was Sasuke speaking to him.

"You woke me up… to talk about bonds?"

My eyes widened, just as the area shook and this section of the base began to crumble, Sai being thrown back by the force of what I could only assume was an attack from Sasuke. I hurried and sped over to Sai, getting behind him and stopping him from being launched across the rocks dangerously, causing him to look up at me in surprise.

"You…"

"Don't thank me just yet." I muttered, looking up to the outline of Sasuke, who was shaded by the sun. "Things are just getting started."