Chapter 8

On 11 am the next day, the squad, led by Sasuke, arrived at the village gates. The team had left Rice Country at about four in the morning. Surprisingly, they didn't run into enemy territory. The squad walked up to the gates and was greeted by the two guards.

"Sasuke-san, I see you and your team has made it back safely. Hokage-sama requests that you and your squad see her immediately," one of the guards said, informing the Uchiha. Sasuke nodded, the he and his squad continued, passing the guards who bowed and extended their hands signaling them to go. Everyone continued towards the Hokage tower.

Konohamaru looked at Hanabi, who gave him curious look. "What do you want?"

Slightly nervous, "Well I was wondering…I don't know…just maybe…"

"Just come out with it, I don't have all day," the young Hyuuga said in a slightly aggravated tone.

"I was wondering if you would want to get some ramen with me after we go see Hokage-sama." Konohamaru asked.

"No." Hanabi simply said, causing Konohamaru to slouch in defeat.

Udon whispered in his best friend's ear, "Why continue after the Hyuuga when Moegi likes you? It's not like she's ugly."

"Moegi is like a sister man." Konohamaru snapped at his friend.

"I'm just saying that there are other fish in the sea. You should try looking at the others." Udon suggested to Konohamaru.

After 10 minutes of walking, the team finally arrived at the Tsunade's office, Shizune escorted them in.

"Hokage-sama, Sasuke and his team have returned."

"Yes, I can see that Shizune. So, Sasuke, I assume the mission was successful?" The Hokage asked.

"Yes," He reached in his scroll pouch to and pulled out the scroll, "Here it is Hokage-sama. I will have a written report on your desk first thing in the morning." Sasuke stated formally.

Tsunade stood up from her desk and looked at her pink-haired apprentice, "Ok. Sakura, I expect you at the hospital by 3. Shizune, take that scroll to intelligence and have it examined. Also, tell that lazy ass strategist of mine that I expect a written report on advantages, disadvantages and possible attack patterns. Tell him I want it on my desk by tomorrow." Shizune nod and left to complete the task that Tsunade assigned her.

Tsunade looked at Naruto, "You come with me. The rest of you are dismissed." Everyone filed out of the office; Naruto and Tsunade being the last.

Tsunade and Naruto were walking towards the council room. Naruto looked at Tsunade, "Obaa-chan, what the hell is this about? Why do I need to see the council again?"

"Naruto they're concerned about what you did to those Rain-nins and Rock-nins last year and they want an explanation, I told them that you don't have to give one but after knowing your reason I think they should hear it. So I ordered this meeting so you can tell them." Tsunade informed the blonde.

"Whatever, it doesn't matter if they know or not. It seems like they're going to hate me no matter what I do."

"That might be true, but what you did was something that any decent person would have done." The Hokage said to offer him some comfort.

Tsunade and Naruto entered the chambers. Naruto and Tsunade both took their seats. Tsunade looked around the room to see that all of the attention was focused on her. "Everyone I called this meeting today so you all could here Naruto's reasons for doing what he did in Rain and Earth Country. All of you have issues with what he did and only know part of the story because Jiraiya wished not to tell you, for it was not his place to do so. I already know the reason and I feel that it was more than justifiable; however, this meeting is to put your minds at ease. If you have questions ask him now because this will be the last time I call him before the council."

Inuzuka Tsumi was the first to speak, "Naruto, Jiraiya has told us that you slaughtered all of those nins because a girl was taken hostage, who exactly is this girl?"

"She is my sensei, Minashu Ryuho's daughter." Naruto answered. There were murmurs among the group.

Shikaku decided to ask another question, "Was it necessary to kill all of those nins?"

"Yes. They wouldn't have given her up if I asked." Naruto responded.

Inochi asked his question, "Do you feel any remorse for killing those nins?"

"Do you feel any remorse for killing all the nins you have killed?" Naruto asked with a hint of annoyance and anger in his voice.

"Naruto! Inochi-san has asked you a question, answer it." Koharu demanded.

"I thought I told you that you do not command me. If you request something of me then ask me nicely." Naruto said causing the old lady to narrow her eyes.

"Well Naruto do you?" Inochi continued with his question.

"No. The fact of the matter is that I would do it again if faced with the same situation." Naruto answered Inochi.

Hiashi spoke next, "Naruto," the blond turned to the Hyuuga, "hypothetically speaking, if it was Leaf nins instead of Rock-nins, would you have taken the same course of action?" All heads turned to face Naruto.

"I will tell you like I told Sasuke. Had it been Leaf-nins, there would be close to 300 hundred Leaf-nins dead. It's as simple as that." Naruto answer caused everyone in the room to go into shock.

"You can't be serious, Naruto?" Tsunade asked.

"I'm very serious. Besides I think Sandaime wouldn't be mad either. He would never use children as leverage in hopes to better his troops. If Konoha did that then they would be disrespecting everything that he stood for. You all can get mad but I stand by what I said. This is not an issue because the Leaf would never do something like that. I mean if you guys did, then you would be showing little faith in your clans, especially the Hyuuga who's said to be strongest in Konoha. Am I right Hiashi-sama?" Naruto said the last part mockingly.

"Do any of you have anymore questions?" Tsunade asked the council.

Shibi, who was almost quiet in every meeting, spoke, "Naruto, I think that everyone here would like to know whether you remain loyal to Konoha?"

"Only until this war is over. After that I'm returning to my life with my fiancée in Sun Country. I'm going to live out my days enjoying my life." Naruto answered Shino's dad.

"I think that's all for the questions. Naruto, you and Hinata will be teamed up to do missions. You two will join others on missions, but for the most part, she will be in your team." Tsunade stated, informing Naruto of the decision forced on her by the council yesterday.

Naruto looked at the council to see only a few of them smirking, mainly Utante Koharu, Hyuuga Hiashi, Howaido Tsuki, Kirai Koi, Kataki Waga, and Mitokado Homura. Naruto looked back at Tsunade and narrowed his eyes. He knew exactly what they were trying to do. "I get it. You want me to take on the suicide missions in hopes that you can get rid of me and you put Hinata on my team because broom in the ass over here feels she's unworthy to be in the main family. Two birds with one stone, eh?" Naruto finished off glaring at the Hyuuga.

"We thought it would be in your best interest to have a Hyuuga. Hinata could make a good scout and can alert you of danger. There would be a lot of situations where her Byuakgan could be useful." Hiashi said, trying not to seem suspicious.

Naruto stood up and slammed his hand against the table, "Then why not Neji? He has the seal and if he dies his Byakugan will be sealed forever." After finishing his statement his eyes widened with realization. He now knew the reason and his illustrated to Hiashi that he didn't like it one bit. "You are going to put the cage seal on Hinata, aren't you?"

Hiashi gave the boy a slight smirk. "She is weak and doesn't deserve to be in the main house."

"Naruto looked down at the table. His fist was clenched and he was shaking his head. "How could you…how could you do that to your own daughter, you Bastard!" Naruto went to punch Hiashi but was restrained by Jiraiya, who appeared out of

nowhere.

"Let me go so I can kick his pompous ass. Then we'll see if he deserves to be a Hyuuga. Let go, Ero-sennin." Naruto was struggling as Jiraiya had him in a full nelson.

"Naruto this is not the forum for this type of behavior. Just calm down, calm down." Naruto heeded his words and did just that. Naruto dropped back in his seat.

Tsunade, who was now massaging the area above her eyebrows, spoke, "Jiraiya, I thought I told you that you can't just barge in on council meetings."

"If I wasn't here, Hiashi would be heading to the hospital. Anyway, I just wanted to see what was going to happen, don't mind me." Jiraiya said.

Naruto stood up, "I'm done. I'm going back to the hotel."

"I didn't end this meeting yet Naruto." Tsunade informed the blond.

"It's the end for me." Naruto said as he burst open the doors. Tsunade just sighed. She was stressed and it seemed like this day was only going to get longer. "This meeting is over, you are all dismissed." Everyone got up and filed out of the room. Jiraiya looked at Tsunade who returned the look. He smiled at her, "Sake?"

"I thought you would never ask," she replied with a smile of her own.

Naruto was walking down the streets. It was now noon and he was hungry. He figured he'd swing to pick Yumi up and take her out for lunch. Naruto was walking along when he saw Ino and Yumi walking together; Yumi spotted him instantly.

She ran up to him and gave him a hug, "Naruto, I really missed you."

"I was only gone for about 3 days. It wasn't long. Anyway where are you heading." Naruto asked.

Ino finally caught up to Yumi, who took of leaving her behind, "So we're going to grab a bit to eat at the barbeque shack. Care to join us Naruto, I know Lee, Neji, Shikamaru, and Chouji would be please to see you."

Naruto thought it over for a bit then shrugged his shoulders, "Alright, I'll go with you guys. It gives me a chance to spend more time with Yumi and meet up with the guys. Lead the way, Ino."

Ino led the way. Naruto and Yumi were behind her holding hands and talking about stuff that Ino had no clue about. It was not like it mattered, she didn't really care anyway. The group finally arrived at the food place. They were greeted by Kurenai, Asuma, Lee, Ebisu, Genma, Shizune, Yuugao, Shikamaru, Chouji, Neji, and Anko.

Anko smirked at the sight of Naruto, "So, the "Golden Fox" graces us with his presence. To what do we owe the pleasure?"

Naruto returned the smirk, "Don't worry, Konoha is paying 90,000,000 ryou for it."

"I guess you're right. Please sit." Anko moved over to let Naruto take a seat next to her. Naruto sat down, while Yumi and Ino sat on the opposite side of the table across from him.

"It's great to see you, Naruto-kun, how was your mission?" Lee asked.

"Too easy to be an S-rank if you ask me." Naruto responded.

"It seemed like a troublesome mission if you ask me, but you guys are safe so I guess its ok." Shikamaru said lazily.

"So Naruto, how did Hinata do on the mission?" Kurenai asked.

"She did ok I guess. She really didn't have to do much fighting, I and Sasuke pretty much handled the guards. She did help us get pass the border by using her Byakugan efficiently." Naruto stated.

The waiter came by and asked everyone for their order. When he saw Naruto he narrowed his eyes but took his order. The waiter walked away with the intention of spitting in Naruto's food but Naruto grabbed his hand before he could get away, sensing what he was thinking. "If you spit in my plate, I will personally mail your body to your wife and kids. Are we clear?"

The waiter shook his head and hurried off. Everyone was looking at Naruto for what he just did. Neji gave Naruto a curious look, "Naruto, what was that all about?"

"Nothing, he was going to spit in my plate so I had to make sure that he didn't. Fear does a lot to people." Naruto said with a smile.

"Naruto, are you sure that was wise? Now, like the rest of the village, he has what he believes is a legitimate reason to hate you." Shikamaru stated.

Naruto looked at Shikamaru wondering if he knew about the fox. He decided to confirm his suspicions, "No matter what I do, Shikamaru, I will always be seen as a monster."

"Well, I don't see you as that, in fact they should be kissing your ass." Shikamaru stated.

Naruto smiled at the pineapple haired Jounin. Shikamaru knew and he didn't hate him for it. Everyone in Naruto's age group was confused by the conversation between the two. Ino wanted to know what they was talking about, "Naruto, what do you mean that they will always see you as a monster?"

"Ino, answer me this, when you was little, did your parents tell you not to associate with me?" Naruto asked.

Ino thought about for a moment and remembered a time when she was young her mother told her never to associate with him because nothing good would come from it. "Yes, but why would my mother say that?"

"Ask Obaa-chan or your parents. Anyway, can we change the subject?" Naruto said.

Kurenai wondered how Naruto killed all of those nins. It seemed impossible, yet he did it. "Naruto, how did you take out all of those nins?"

Ebisu, who didn't really know what happened, was now listening carefully. Naruto spoke, "I took them out rather easily. You would think that 120 Rain-nins would give me a hard time, even one who had the chakra sword, but they wasn't, disappointing really."

"You took out 120 nins?" Ebisu asked.

"No, I took out approximately 270 nins." Naruto answered.

"Why did you do it Naruto?" Kurenai asked.

"Look I just told this story to my team yesterday; I'm not doing it again. If you want to know ask Hinata, Sasuke, Sakura, Udon, Hanabi, or Konohamaru. You can even ask Jiraiya, Tsunade or Yumi here. But I'm done telling the story." Naruto stated.

The food arrived and everyone started eating. A Hyuuga branch family member came to the table and greeted Neji. "Neji, you are requested at the Hyuuga compound."

"What for?" Neji asked.

"Someone from the main house will become a branch member today. This person is having the seal placed on them as we speak. The branch house is having a formal dinner to welcome this person." The Hyuuga said.

"Who is it?" Neji said grabbing the man.

"I don't know, the main house didn't say. We should get going the Neji, we have a lot to prepare for." The Hyuuga motioned for Neji to follow.

"Excuse me everyone, I have business to take care of. Enjoy your meals and Naruto, I expect a rematch." He said the last part smiling at the blond.

"Yeah you got it." Naruto said returning the smile.

Neji walked of and everyone at the table was curious about the whole Hyuuga ordeal. Genma spoke for the first time, "I wonder who it is from the main house?"

"I don't know but I don't think it's anyone important." Shizune responded.

Everyone continued to talk while Naruto stayed quiet thinking. Yumi looked at Naruto and noticed the look on his face and wondered why he seemed so upset. "Naruto, what's the matter? Are you feeling ok?"

Naruto looked up to Yumi, "Huh? Yeah I'm fine."

"Well you don't look fine, Naruto, you haven't even told us who you think is the Hyuuga receiving the caged seal." Ino stated.

"I already know who is receiving the seal," Naruto stood up. He looked at Yumi, "Yumi lets go, I would like to spend some time with you alone." Yumi stood up, she and Naruto proceed to walk out the restaurant.

"Naruto, who is it then?" Chouji's question stopped Naruto in his tracks.

Naruto turned around and looked at Kurenai, "Kurenai, I think Hinata is going to need you."

Everyone's eyes went wide. Kurenai didn't want to believe it but she knew that he was right. She couldn't believe that Hinata would have the seal on her head, but it was official, her father had outright disowned her.

3 hours later at the Hyuuga compound…

Hinata was looking at the seal on her head in a mirror. It wasn't the seal that hurt, it was the fact that her father had disowned her. When she thought of this, a tear came to her eye. Hinata, who was in a white kimono, was preparing herself to go to the dinner in her to becoming a branch member. Her father wouldn't be there, just her aunt and Neji. She was in her room, the room that was hers for eighteen years. This would no longer be her room because she was going to the branch house now.

Hinata heard a knock at the door and wiped her eyes to hide the fact that she was crying. "Come in." The door opened to reveal her father and a couple of branch members. Her father motioned for them to collect her stuff and take it to the branch house. He looked at her and spoke, "Your job will to be to serve the Hyuuga as a protector of the Byakugan. If you were stronger then this wouldn't have happened, but it seems that you are not. I expect you to be out of the main house in an hour." Her father turned around and walked out of the room. The branch members collected her stuff and took it with them.

Hinata broke down crying once everyone was out her room. Hanabi, who was by the door, couldn't help but feel bad for her sister. Even though she and Hinata had problems, she would never wish the curse seal on her. Hanabi ran off to get away. She couldn't understand why her father didn't love Hinata the way he loved her. It wasn't right and the more she thought about the way her father, herself, and the rest of the main house treated her, it made her mad. Mad at them for treating her like trash and mad at herself for treating Hinata so badly. Hanabi needed to get out of the compound and get away; she didn't know where she was going as long as it was far away from her home.

In a nearby park…

Naruto and Yumi was sitting on the bench enjoying the beautiful sunny day in the village. Naruto and Yumi watched as kids were playing kickball in the field and parents watching over their kids. Naruto was glad to be spending time with Yumi, but he couldn't help but think of Hinata's situation. He wished there was something he could do, but this was out of his control. He just hoped that she was alright.

"Naruto, is something the matter? You've been staring into space for a while now."

"I was just wondering about Hinata. Her family is placing that seal on her. I hope she's ok, she's too nice to have to deal with that." Naruto told Yumi.

"Oh. That is sad indeed, but I'm sure she'll be ok." Yumi said to reassure Naruto.

"I guess you're right. Anyway, what do you want to do?" Naruto asked.

"I don't know. Maybe we could go see a movie or something." Yumi suggested.

"Sounds like a plan, let's go." Naruto said.

The two walked of and headed to the theater. Naruto grabbed Yumi's hand; he looked at her and smiled. He tried to think about a way to help Hinata but what could he do? He was at a lost and had no idea what to do.

In the Cloud Village…

The Raikage sat in his chair pondering the news he just received. From the story of the two nins that survived, it seemed that Uchiha Sasuke and Naruto Uzumaki was the ones that led the assault on the base. He had no choice but to do what he was about to do. It made him mad but at the same time it made him happy.

He looked at one his Jounins, "Have a carrier hawk deliver a message to the Rain and the Rock villages. Tell them to cease all attacks for now. Send a letter to the Mist informing the Raikage that I wish to hold a summit there since they're a neutral country. Last but not least, send a letter to the Leaf and the Sand, informing them of my intentions. Send our fastest Hawk to the Mist."

"Raikage-sama, do you think this is wise?" One of the Jounins asked.

"Yes. It vexes me that they hit us and left without a scratch but this is a blessing in disguise." The Hokage told his Jounin.

"How so, sir?" The Jounin asked.

"This is the perfect time to get the Mist to ally with us. Orochimaru has showed us the way and we shall do the same. If everything goes according to plan, the Cloud, along with the Rock, Mist, and Rain, will crush the Leaf."

"Sir, what has he shown us?" the Jounin asked.

"With or without the Mist, I can get Tsunade to show good faith and hold the Chuunin exams. We will do what Orochimaru did and attack then. Although he had a good idea the fool didn't have the tactical knowledge or know how. Maybe he did but he didn't have three villages attacking one."

"How will you get the Mist to join us?" The Jounin asked.

"The "Golden Fox" has solved that problem for us. The Mizukage wants Saichi Kaito dead. He fears that Kaito will kill him and take over his reign. If we can promise him that killing Naruto would draw him out then he would gladly accept." The Raikage stated.

"Sir, he is extremely good, maybe even better than the Sannin, how do suppose we are going to kill him?" asked the Jounin.

"I don't expect us to, I just want to get the Mist to fight along side of us. Besides, if it comes down to it I can kill him need be. The kid is strong but he isn't on my level." The Raikage sat down back in his chair. He opened his draw and pulled out a Leaf head band that he had in his possession.

"There is only one person that is on my level. I was hoping that this war would draw him out but it has not. Once he's dead I won't have anything to worry about. Our village will rule among all of the villages. Maybe I should bring this head band with me; that would stir up some emotions surely." The Raikage said with a smirk.

"Leave me and send in Nenshou Kouen." The guard bowed and obeyed the Raikage.

Kouen, a young man, with blue hair and yellow eyes entered into the room. The Raikage motioned for him to take a seat. "Kouen, you are my best Jounin and possibly my successor. It seems that I have a mission for you but this mission will not start until I say so. Your mission will be to kill Uchiha Sasuke and Naruto Uzumaki."

"Hmm…The last of the Uchiha clan and the "Golden Fox" himself, I will enjoy this greatly, Raikage-sama. But I ask sir, why me?" Kouen asked.

"I chose you because you have the power necessary to deal with them. I'm sure that Gobi sealed inside of you will give you the power necessary to deal with them. You are this village's trump card. When the time comes, you will show them the power of the Gobi no Hoko." The Raikage said with a sinister smile.

"They won't stand a chance sir. The power of the demon will allow me to do what is necessary. They will fall at my feet." Kouen said very sure of himself.

"I don't doubt you. Kouen, I would like you to accompany me to Water Country when I go. I'm sure you will see those two there. Tsunade will surely have them both as her body guards along with the infamous copy ninja Kakashi. Here is the file that I have on Naruto, Sasuke and Kakashi. It's old, gathered from our intelligence during the Chuunin exams six years ago." The Raikage hands Kouen the file.

"Why give me an old file and what is the purpose of it?" Kouen wondered.

"Well we heard that Hatake Kakashi had a team in the exams that year. Open it and tell me what you see." The Raikage motioned for him to open the file.

Kouen opened the file and looked at it intensely. "I see, Hatake Kakashi was their Jounin instructor along with some pink haired girl, I bet she's dead now."

"Actually she's alive, in fact, she's Tsunade's apprentice. All of them trained with the Sannin. Naruto trained with Jiraiya and Sasuke trained with Orochimaru. The girl probably won't accompany them to the meeting but from what here, she's just as good as Tsunade when it comes to being a medic nin. She can hold her own in a fight but clearly Naruto and Sasuke are stronger." The Raikage told Kouen.

"Well Raikage-sama, thanks for showing me this. If you didn't I wouldn't have taken them serious. This should prove interesting."

"Indeed it should, indeed it should." The Raikage said with an evil smirk.

Back in the Leaf village…

It was now night in the village. Naruto and Yumi decided to get ramen before going back to the hotel. Naruto was now on his sixth bowl and Yumi felt embarrassed by her pig of a fiancée.

"Naruto, how is it that you're still hungry? You're already on your sixth bowl. I think you should stop before you clean them out of they're weekly stock." Yumi suggested.

"What can I say, Ichiraku ramen is the best, isn't that right, Ayame-neechan?" Naruto asked the lady behind the stand.

"Yes, I suppose that it is. Do you want another bowl Naruto-kun?" Ayame asked her favorite, long lost customer.

"Nah, I think this will do. Thanks for offering. By the way nee-chan, where is the old man?" Naruto asked.

"He went on vacation for the week while I run the shop. He works so hard, he really deserves it." Ayame told Naruto.

"Well, nee-chan, I think we should be heading back to the hotel. Thanks for the, ramen it was delicious." Naruto said.

"Yes Ayame-san, the ramen was excellent. I hope to see you again, later Ayame-san." Yumi waved to the girl as her and Naruto headed back to the hotel they were to stay at. When Naruto and Yumi were walking two Chuunin level ninja's appeared in front of them.

A young teen girl with long flowing orange hair landed in front of Naruto along with a girl with long and tangled brown hair. The girls stood up from their crouching positions.

"Naruto-niisan, it is good to see you. All is well, I hope?" The girl said smiling at Naruto.

"Moegi, is that you? Wow, you grew up to be a beautiful kunochi I see. Who's your friend?" Naruto asked.

The girl extend her hand for Naruto to shake, "My name is Matsuri, and it's nice to meet you Naruto-san."

"Like wise, but may I ask why you two are here?" Naruto asked.

"Well Tsunade requests to see you. She told us to escort you to the Hokage tower." Moegi stated.

Yumi slightly nudged Naruto, "Oh where are my manners. Moegi and Matsuri, I would like you to meet Yumi, my fiancée."

"It's nice to meet you girls. Naruto, you go ahead, I'll go to the hotel and wait until you finish." Yumi said.

"Ok, later sweetie." Naruto kissed her then walked off with Moegi and Matsuri.

"Do you guys have any idea what she wants?" Naruto asked.

"I'm not sure, but it seems like all of the Jounins are there. Well see when we get there." Matsuri stated.

"So Naruto-niisan, did anything happen between Konohamaru-kun and the ice queen?" Moegi asked.

"Does Moegi have a crush on Konohamaru?" Naruto said with a smirk.

"No, that's not it at all it's just that I'm curious that's all." She put up her hands in defense.

"She's lying, she has a major crush on Konohamaru." Matsuri informed the blonde.

"Well, at least I'm not a member of the Uchiha Sasuke fan club." Moegi shot back.

"So what if I like Sasuke-kun, he is so hot, dreamy, and mysterious." Matsuri said with hearts in her eyes.

"Please tell me you're joking." Naruto said to the girl.

"Joking about loving Sasuke-kun? Nope, he is the greatest. Don't tell me you're jealous of Sasuke-kun, Naruto-san." Matsuri said.

"Nope, not at all. It's just funny to see that his fan club stretches down into the youth. So besides your obvious crush on my former teammate, who else do you like?" Naruto asked.

"Well… I do like Udon. Wait a minute, you were on Sasuke's team as a genin?" Matsuri stated.

"Yes, and no I will not put in a good word for you. The fact of the matter is that we're not on good terms and never really have been. Besides, my other former teammate has a major crush on him as well." Naruto informed the girl; she then slumped her shoulders in defeat.

"I wonder who his other teammate was." Matsuri thought.

"Sakura-san was Naruto's other teammate. I told you to go for Udon instead of Sasuke-san." Moegi said to her friend.

"I guess your right. Besides I'm only fifteen, Sasuke-kun clearly would want someone his age or older. Well, it doesn't hurt to admire his beauty." Matsuri said with a smile.

Moegi giggled at her friends comment, "I suppose not. Anyway we're here."

Naruto and the two girls entered the meeting room. In the meeting room, there were three chairs in the front, while there were chairs and desks in the room for the Jounins and Chuunins to sit. Naruto saw Kiba and Shino next to Kurenai. He looked to his left and saw Shikamaru resting his head on the desk. He saw Ino and Sakura talking to Tenten and Lee while Gai was talking to Genma and Asuma. Naruto saw Sasuke leaning against a wall in the corner of the waiting for, what looked to be a meeting, to begin. The rest of the Jounin's were chatting amongst each other.

Kiba turned and noticed Naruto observing his surroundings. "Hey Naruto, over here man."

Naruto walked over to Kiba, "Hey Kiba, Shino, and Kurenai."

Everyone greeted Naruto. Naruto looked at Kurenai, "Did you get any word on Hinata?"

"Neji told us earlier that the seal was already placed on her. Right now she's at a welcome dinner with the branch family." Kurenai said sadly.

"That bastard Hiashi, I should kick his ass to kingdom come." Kiba said with anger and energy.

"Harming him won't help Hinata. The best that we can do is be there for her in her time of need." Shino said.

Hanabi saw Hinata's teammates and walked up to them, "Kiba, Shino, Kurenai, Naruto." She greeted them.

"What do you want?" Kiba said with anger in his voice.

"I know you're probably mad at me, but I didn't know until after it happened. I would never wish the seal on anybody. The fact of the matter is that there is nothing I can do." Hanabi said with a defeated expression.

"If you really want to do something then become the head of the Hyuuga and ban the curse seal." Naruto suggested.

"I won't go against the method that has ensured our survival for generations." Hanabi said.

"Then you don't deserve to be leader. A leader does what is right, not what is right for him. He put the wants and needs of his people before him. That is what a leader is. You Hyuugas are so worried about someone obtaining the secrets of the Byakugan that it's tearing your family apart." Naruto said to the girl.

She was about to respond but Tsunade walked in with Koharu and Homura. She took the seat in the middle while Koharu took the seat on her left and Homura the seat on her right. She motioned for all of the Jounins to sit down.

"A couple of hours ago, I received a letter that the Cloud, Rock, and Rain village will cease the attacks for now. Another message was sent to me two hours after that informing me that a summit is to be held in the Mist village in 3 days. I will be going to this meeting but I want you all to stay on high alert while I'm away from this village."

One of the Jounin's raised his hand, "Tsunade-sama, who will be accompany you on your trip?"

"Don't worry, I have selected five of the best ninjas to accompany me." Tsunade answered the man.

Genma raised his hand next, "If you don't mind me asking Hokage-sama, who are they?"

"Hatake Kakashi, Uchiha Sasuke, Hyuuga Neji, Haruno Sakura, and Uzumaki Naruto." Tsunade informed everyone.

One of the older ninjas, who was around when the Kyuubi attacked and didn't like Naruto spoke, "Hokage-sama, shouldn't you select someone other then Uzumaki, I mean, he isn't even a ninja of this village. For all we know he could be…" Before the ninja could finish Naruto was on the guy's desk with a kunai at his throat. Everyone, with the exception of a few Jounins and Tsunade, was shocked by his speed. Sasuke smirked.

"You should be more worried about your skills then about whether or not I'm worthy to play body guard to the old hag. Also, if you have issues with me take them up with me, don't hide behind your words you pathetic excuse for a ninja." Naruto said to the guy who was shaking.

"Naruto, please take your seat, this isn't the time or the forum for this. As for you Sawado Gidou, the people I selected are highly capable. I'm sure you can see that." Tsunade said to the Jounin.

Naruto move back to his seat across the room. Tsunade continued to speak. "Like I was saying, those people I named will be accompanying me. I expect the rest of you to be on alert and protect this village. While I'm gone, Shizune will be acting Hokage. Are there any questions?"

Naruto raised his hand, Tsunade motioned for him to speak, "Obaa-chan, why did you select the said people. I know why you selected me, but why the others?"

"Well Naruto, It's to show that I'm not be trifled with. You, Sasuke, Kakashi, Sakura and Neji are probably the strongest nins in the village next to myself. Also, Sasuke being an Uchiha, Neji being a Hyuuga, Kakashi's reputation and your actions in Rock and Rain will make them think twice about trying anything funny." Tsunade informed Naruto.

"You mentioned the reason for everyone going but Sakura. Is she just going for show or what?" Naruto asked.

Sakura stood up and turned to face Naruto's direction, "I think you're seriously underestimating my skills Naruto." Sakura said.

"I'm not underestimating you. I'm sure you improved as much as you could. What I wonder is if its good enough." Naruto said with a smirk.

Sakura walked up to Naruto who stood up when she got near. Sakura smiled at him then punch with all her might sending him flying through a wall. "Still think I'm not good enough Naruto?"

"No, you're not good enough." Everyone looked up to see Naruto standing on the ceiling.

"You have the strength I give you that but what good is power if you can't hit your opponent or see them in this case." Naruto stated.

Sakura looked up with anger in her eyes, "When did you switch?"

"He switched with the desk in the far corner when you cocked back your punch," Sasuke informed her.

"I see we're the observant one, eh Sasuke?" Naruto said to the Uchiha.

"Naruto, if you don't get back in your seat, I guarantee that my punch will connect and Sakura, you owe me a wall.

They went back to their seats. Tsunade continued, "Like I was saying, Sakura is going for her skills as well. Although she may not be as skilled as you, she is very skilled."

Udon raised his hands next, "I notice that you said Kakashi and Neji are also going too. Why aren't they here at this meeting?"

"Kakashi is on a mission and Neji is tending to family business. Kakashi will be informed upon his return as for Neji, he will be informed later on tonight. Are there any other questions on this matter?" Tsunade asked.

"What do you think made them cease all attacks?" Another Jounin asked.

"Well I think it has to do with the mission that was led by Uchiha Sasuke. He and his team obtained blueprints for a ninja base in Lightning Country. This base had battle strategies, and I think the Raikage feared that if we obtained their plans then we could swing the war in our favor. He could use this meeting to give him time to think up of a new strategy." Tsunade informed the Jounin.

"So in other words, We got the king in check and they're looking for a move on the board to get them out of check?" Shikamaru asked.

"Great analogy Shikamaru, and yes, we do have them in check so to speak but anything can happen. Anyway, this meeting is now adjourned. All missions are suspended until after I return from Water Country." Tsunade got up and left, followed by Homura and Koharu. Everyone left.

Naruto headed back to the hotel. He entered his room to hear the shower running. Naruto took of his shirt and lay on the bed. He stared at the ceiling for ten minutes. Yumi snapped him out of his daze, "Naruto, earth to Naruto."

"Hey sweetie, you smell great, is that apple scent?" Naruto asked while Yumi laid next to him.

"Actually it is. I thought you would like it." She said while circling her finger on his chest. Naruto got up, "I'm going to take a shower. Do you want to join, I mean I could always use someone to wash my back."

Yumi grabbed his hand while giving him a seductive look; she led him to the shower. Naruto followed and closed the shower behind him.

Midnight Hyuuga House…

Hinata lay in the bed thinking about the events of her day. Neji, his mother, and the rest of the branch members welcomed her with open arms. The dinner in her honor of becoming a branch member was nice but she still felt out of place. She wished she was stronger. She hated this seal and wished she could free everyone from it. Hinata decided not to think about it anymore, she closed her eyes and decided to go to sleep.

Suddenly her eyes shot open.

Hinata saw a person in all black. The said person had a tissue filled with chloroform in his hand; the tissue was place over her mouth and nose. The darkness had consumed her.

7 am in Konoha…

Naruto laid in the bed with Yumi snuggled up to his chest. He jolted up when he heard banging on his door. "What the," Naruto sat up. Yumi sat up and slowly started rubbing her eyes. "Who the heck could that be banging early this morning?" Yumi asked out loud.

Naruto got up and placed a towel around his waist. He opened the door to see Sakura and Kiba standing at the door. Sakura and Kiba saw Naruto with a towel around his waist. Sakura blushed, putting two and two together. Kiba just gave him a knowing smirk.

"Naruto, I can see that your busy, or at least was busy, but the Hokage requests your presence at the tower." Kiba said.

"What is this about?" Naruto asked.

"Last night, Hinata was kidnapped." Sakura said.

Naruto closed his eyes for a second, "Give me a minute to get dressed and I will be out.

Naruto quickly threw on a pair sweats and an orange short sleeve shirt. He quickly left the room. Him, Sakura, and Kiba all took off immediately.

They arrived at the Hokage's office. Everyone from the rookie nine and Gai's team was there. Tsunade looked at the new arrivals. "Now that everyone is here, I will speak. Last night, Hyuuga Hinata was kidnapped. I chose you guy because all of you were the closest to her."

"Did the kidnapper leave any clues and any demands?" Naruto asked.

"All that was found at the scene was a letter saying that the kidnapper wants 200,000 ryou. The kidnapper demanded that we meet him at the border of Wind and River Country. It is at least a day's travel so you guys will leave now. I want Hinata bought back…whether she's dead or alive. I know you guys don't want to think about it but we have to expect the worse. Also, Gaara and his siblings will meet up with you guys at the border. You will escort them back as well. Gaara will be accompanying me on my trip to Mist. Anyway, your mission starts now, leave." Everyone left except Naruto.

"Naruto, why are you still here?" Tsunade asked.

"Do you think she's alright?" Naruto asked.

"I don't know," Tsunade replied.

Naruto left the office immediately in the same fashion as everyone else. Naruto caught up with everyone. Kiba and Neji was in the lead, going faster then everyone else. Shikamaru sighed, "Kiba, Neji, slow down, you guys are going too fast."

"Hinata's in danger and you're telling me to slow down. Piss off, lazy ass." Kiba replied.

"Do you think Hinata is ok?" Ino asked.

"Don't, Ino-san, I'm sure Hinata-san is perfectly fine." Lee tried to assure Ino.

"I hope that she's ok." Sakura said.

Sasuke looked behind him and smirked, "So you finally decided to join us, eh dobe."

"You're still calling me a dobe after I kicked you ass?" Naruto said.

"Yep, because the next time the outcome will be different. I just upped my training. Next time we fight you're going to lose." Sasuke stated.

"Whatever you say, Sasuke-chan. The fact of the matter is that you lost. Anyway, we need to be looking for Hinata, not fighting. Not like you're much of a challenge anyway, Sasugay."

Chouji let out a laugh. Ino laughed slightly, and Shikamaru smirked. Kiba who was in the front couldn't help but laugh loud and hard. Sasuke narrowed his eyes at the blond behind him, "I can assure you that I'm not gay. Don't confuse me with yourself idiot."

"You have fan club of females and yet you don't date anyone of them or anyone for that matter? If looks like a duck, walks likes a duck, talks like a duck, and smells like a duck, then it's a duck." Naruto said.

"Sasuke-kun isn't gay!" Sakura shouted.

"How do you know that, Sakura, hmm?" Naruto asked.

"Well I…" Sakura tried to say something.

"You guys are so busted." Naruto said.

"What, you didn't think that I knew about you two? Sasuke, you were so obvious by distancing yourself from Sakura while we were on the mission and Sakura, you just confirmed it by coming to his defense. Don't worry, nobody here will tell, right guys?" Naruto asked.

"It's too troublesome and besides I already knew." Shikamaru said.

"I did too, Sakura, you should not put an Uchiha t-shirt in your laundry." Ino stated.

"Sneaking into the Uchiha compound at night was a dead giveaway." Neji stated.

"How did you know about…" Sakura caught herself before she finished. Sasuke was mad and went ahead of Kiba.

Naruto smiled and spoke in baby voice, "I guess Wasuke was a wittle mad that his wittle secret was exposed."

"I guess so, but it's too troublesome to stress over it." Shikamaru said.

"You say that to everything you lazy bum. I wonder if I told Temari that you said it was too troublesome take her out while she was in the village, what would she do to you?" Ino said to her friend.

"Ino, you wouldn't do that would you?" Shikamaru said with a slightly nervous voice.

"No, I just wanted to see your reaction." Ino said and smile.

"Ino is so troublesome. I swear that she can be such an annoying bitch at times." Shikamaru thought.

Naruto looked at Shino, who was quiet during their 20 minutes of travel. "Shino, are you ok?"

"Naruto, I'm fine. We shouldn't panic because Hinata is fine I'm sure of it. She is stronger then she and everyone else thinks. If she had confidence then she would be really strong. I hope she finds her inner strength.

Naruto looked at Shino for a minute then smiled, "He really cares for here like a big brother. He's right though, Hinata is strong, I hope that she sees that."

The group continued to their destination. They were a day away from knowing the fate of their comrade.

Somewhere Unknown …

"Is she ok?"

"Yes, but she has been out for a while?"

"That's good to know."

"She's Hyuuga of the Branch house?"

"Yes, she is."

"What you're asking me to do is going to cost you."

"I know, can you do it?"

"Of course I can, I am the best."

Hinata was a little disoriented but she heard a voice that sound like a woman and man. She grabbed her head, "My head… it hurts."

"It would seem that our guest is up." The lady said. Hinata couldn't make out who she was, her eyes still trying to focus.

"Yes so it seems. How do you feel?" the man asked Hinata.

"I'm…" Hinata tried to answer but was too focused on getting her eyes adjusted.

"Don't worry about it, if I wanted you dead then you would be dead." The man said.

"What is wrong with my eyes, why is everything blurry?" Hinata asked.

"I injected you with a sleep drug when you got hear around three this morning, anyway here is some water, drink up." The lady handed her the drink.

Hinata's vision started to clear. She now saw that a beautifully lady stood before her. What shocked her was the person that was standing in front of her. She couldn't believe her eyes. Why did he kidnap her, what did he have to gain from it?

Hinata eyes was wide in shock when she said in a low tone, "Naruto-kun."