Chapter 163: Line Up
The cool night air rustled the leaves of the trees, creating an eerie chorus as Malik stood alone in the dense forest. A faint rustle caught his attention, and before he could react, a six-leaf clover drifted down from the sky, seemingly suspended in slow motion. With practiced ease, Malik reached out and plucked it from the air, holding it between his fingers.
"Well, that's very unlucky," he muttered, turning the clover over in his hand, studying it with a small smile of amusement.
The forest grew unnervingly silent, and the shadows around Malik seemed to grow darker, thicker, as if the night itself were closing in. From the corner of his eye, he caught a flicker of movement—there, just beyond the line of trees, two figures emerged.
Kagami, the Shadow Puppet Master, was the first to step forward. Her form shifted like a living shadow, flickering in and out of existence as though she were a mere puppet of the darkness. She was clad in the signature Akatsuki cloak, black with crimson clouds swirling across its surface. Her eyes glowed faintly, revealing the frustration she carried within her. She remained silent, her body moving like it was part of the night itself.
Beside her, Yuki Hyouga—better known as Yukina, the Frost Reaper—stepped lightly, her pale, sightless silver eyes scanning the surroundings with a precision that belied her blindness. Her icy-blue hair flowed like water down her back, blending with the cool hues of the moonlit night. Her presence, though cold and calculated, carried an air of amusement, as if this entire situation were nothing more than a game to her. Yet beneath that surface, Malik knew how dangerous she truly was.
==
Yuki "Yukina" Hyouga:
Malik: Love: 2 - Lust: 0
-
Kagami Shay
Malik: Love: -33 - Lust: 5
==
Yukina smirked, her voice dripping with mirth. "My, my, Malik. Playing with luck, are we? How fortunate... or rather, unfortunate, that we've come to visit."
===
Quest Update +1
Yuki Clan: Travel to the Land of Waves and find any remaining members of the Yuki Clan. Use any means necessary to ensure their safety and survival. (1/6)
===
Malik pocketed the six-leaf clover and smiled back. "Kagami, you actually found a six-leaf clover. I'm impressed." He glanced at Kagami, noting the tight line of her lips. "Though I sense you're not too thrilled about it."
Kagami's form wavered, her frustration palpable, but she remained silent. It was Yukina who stepped forward to speak on her behalf. "Orochimaru and our leader thought it best to... ensure you don't involve yourself in the events to come. They've asked us to keep you occupied, to prevent any... personal intervention."
Malik chuckled softly, folding his arms. "Really? The Akatsuki, worried about little old me?" His tone was lighthearted, but his eyes sharpened as he studied the two women.
Yukina's amusement deepened, her voice cold as the air around her. "Not worried, Malik. Just cautious. You're a wildcard, after all."
Kagami, clearly irritated by the diversion from her usual silence, finally spoke. Her voice was a low, calm threat, one that carried weight despite its softness. "We won't hurt you, Malik, but we can hurt the people you care about. You can heal their bodies, yes... but their minds? Their hearts? Some wounds even you can't fix."
Malik raised his hands in mock surrender, a grin still playing on his lips. "Alright, alright. Message received. I won't interfere personally." He paused, his smile fading into something more serious. "But that doesn't mean I'm not going to prepare them for what's coming."
Kagami's expression remained neutral, but her eyes gleamed with satisfaction. "As long as you're not with them, we don't care what you do." She glanced at Yukina, who gave a small nod of agreement.
With a final, fleeting glance at Malik, the two Akatsuki members began to fade back into the darkness of the forest. Kagami's form dissolved into shadow, while Yukina's presence seemed to chill the air before it disappeared entirely, leaving nothing but a faint mist behind.
Malik stood alone once more, the forest returning to its usual stillness. He exhaled slowly, the weight of their threats lingering in the back of his mind. "Prepare them, huh?" He murmured to himself. "Guess I better get to work."
And with that, Malik turned his gaze back toward the direction Sasuke and the Sound Four had gone. He had no intention of stopping them, but the coming conflict? That was a different story.
Malik stood in the middle of the forest, the last whispers of Kagami and Yukina fading into the cool night air. With a sigh, he reached into his chest, summoning GrubGrub. The small pink ball of light hovered before him, always there when he needed it. As GrubGrub materialized, a familiar screen popped up in front of him, glowing faintly in the dark—a shop for skills.
"Haven't used the ol' skill shop in a while," Malik muttered to himself, a grin spreading across his face. "Wonder what gems the Goddesses have blessed me with this time."
The glowing interface displayed a list of available skills, and as Malik scrolled through them, he couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at some of the more... peculiar options.
Existing Available Skills:
Fountain of Youth:
Skill: Grants the user the ability to rejuvenate others' appearance and physical condition, making them look and feel younger.
"Might come in handy when people are feeling their age," Malik mused.
Rope Master:
Skill: Allows the user to expertly handle and manipulate ropes, including tying complex knots, using ropes for climbing, and even using ropes as weapons.
"Hmm, ropes? Kinky, but practical."
Bosom Grower:
Skill: Enables the user to temporarily enhance someone's chest size at will, which can be used for various purposes, including disguise or distraction. Can be used permanently but will go on cooldown for a week.
"Now, this one... I'm sure a few people would find amusing." He chuckled.
Eye Spy:
Skill: Grants the user enhanced vision, allowing them to see great distances, through obstacles, or even in complete darkness.
"Now this is more like it. Could be useful in a pinch."
Sock Matcher:
Skill: Instantly matches any pair of socks, no matter how disorganized or mismatched they are. Useful for quickly organizing laundry and ensuring you always have matching socks.
"Because apparently, the universe cares about laundry efficiency?"
Paperclip Bender:
Skill: Allows the user to bend paperclips into any shape or form with perfect precision. Useful for creating makeshift tools, art projects, or fixing small items.
"A DIY wizard's dream."
Bubble Blower:
Skill: Enables the user to blow bubbles of various sizes and shapes, but the bubbles have no special properties. Useful for entertaining children, creating decorative bubble displays, or stress relief.
"Maybe I can cheer up Sasuke with this one," Malik smirked.
Nose Whistler:
Skill: Allows the user to whistle through their nose with perfect pitch and melody. Useful for providing unique musical performances, signaling in a discreet manner, or amusing friends.
"This is the type of skill you never knew you needed... until you did."
Toe Tapper:
Skill: Grants the user the ability to tap their toes in perfect rhythm to any song, but it has no other practical use. Useful for keeping time during musical performances or dance practice.
"This is what happens when the Goddesses get bored, isn't it?"
People Watcher:
Skill: Allows the user to watch other people as if they were on a TV screen, providing a live feed of their actions and surroundings. This skill can be used for surveillance or simply for entertainment.
"Oho, now this... this could be very useful."
Plant Whisperer:
Skill: Allows the user to communicate with plants, understanding their needs and helping them grow healthier and faster. Perfect for gardening and agriculture.
"Because apparently, I need to moonlight as a gardener now."
Memory Vault:
Skill: Enables the user to store and recall memories with perfect clarity, making it easier to remember important information, dates, and events.
"I could see how this would be handy... if I weren't already perfect."
Malik chuckled, shaking his head at the list. "Either the Goddesses are messing with me or punishing me... not sure which. But hey, I've got points to spend."
He scrolled back up to People Watcher. "Yeah, this one's perfect. I can keep an eye on things without being there. Let the others handle the heavy lifting."
With a casual tap, Malik purchased the People Watcher skill, watching as the screen confirmed the transaction. A subtle warmth flowed through his chest as the skill was absorbed into his being, the knowledge of its use instantly downloading into his mind.
"Alright, time to put this to good use," Malik said, his tone playful as always. "Now, let's see what's happening on the 'Sasuke Recovery' channel."
GrubGrub flickered with excitement as Malik activated his new skill, ready to watch the action unfold without getting directly involved. He might not be jumping into the fray just yet, but that didn't mean he wasn't prepared to intervene if things got out of hand.
"Popcorn would be nice right about now," Malik quipped, eyes glinting with amusement as he leaned back, preparing for the show.
Shikamaru stood in the Hokage's office, rubbing the back of his neck in frustration. "A team of chūnin and jōnin should be sent after Sasuke," he muttered. "We're dealing with the Sound Four, and possibly more."
Tsunade sighed, leaning back in her chair, her brows furrowed. "You know we're too understaffed after Orochimaru's invasion, Shikamaru. Most of our higher-ranked ninja are injured or on critical missions. The only team I can allow is one led by you." She paused for a moment, letting the reality of the situation sink in. "You've got half an hour to recruit whatever genin you see fit."
Shikamaru blinked in disbelief. "Half an hour?"
Tsunade nodded. "Half an hour. I recommend you include Naruto, and you'll definitely need Chōji. Find whoever you can, but make sure they're capable."
With no time to waste, Shikamaru accepted the mission and darted out of the room, already forming a plan. As he moved swiftly through the village, he began assembling his team. First, he found Naruto, who immediately agreed without hesitation.
Chōji, loyal as ever, joined them next, despite Shikamaru's concerns for his friend's safety.
Soon, Shikamaru arrived at the Inuzuka compound, where Kiba was lounging with Akamaru. The tomboyish kunoichi raised an eyebrow at Shikamaru's approach.
"Kiba, I need you," Shikamaru said bluntly. "It's Sasuke."
Kiba grinned, her sharp teeth showing as Akamaru barked in response. "Of course. You know we're in."
Their next stop was the Hyūga compound. Neji Hyūga, tall and graceful, was practicing in the courtyard, her long brown hair tied back. She turned her pale lavender eyes on Shikamaru as he approached.
"Shikamaru," Neji greeted, her voice calm. "What do you need?"
"We're putting together a team to retrieve Sasuke," Shikamaru explained.
Neji's Byakugan flared for a moment as she scanned the horizon, then nodded. "I'll join. We'll bring him back."
With Naruto, Chōji, Kiba, and Neji secured, Shikamaru hurried to the training grounds where Rock Lee was practicing her taijutsu. Lee's green jumpsuit was a blur of movement as she trained with her signature intensity.
"Lee," Shikamaru called, catching her attention. "We need you for this mission."
Lee stopped her training and turned to him with bright, eager eyes. "I'll do whatever it takes to bring Sasuke back. You can count on me!"
With the team now assembled, Shikamaru led them to the village gates, where they gathered for a final briefing. As they stood together, Shikamaru took a deep breath, ready to address his squad.
"Listen up, everyone," Shikamaru began, his voice steady despite the gravity of the situation. "This mission is dangerous. We're going to face enemies stronger than any we've dealt with before. But we have to bring Sasuke back. No matter what. Stick together, watch each other's backs, and trust in your abilities."
Naruto clenched his fists, his face set with determination. "We'll get him back. Believe it."
Chōji gave a firm nod, a flicker of uncertainty in his eyes but resolved nonetheless. "Right."
Kiba smirked, her fingers ruffling Akamaru's fur. "We're ready."
Neji's gaze was calm but intense, her Byakugan scanning the area as she readied herself. "We'll succeed."
Rock Lee's fists tightened in excitement, her eyes filled with the fire of youth. "We will not fail! With our strength, we can overcome any challenge!"
Shikamaru, though weighed down by the burden of leadership, couldn't help but feel pride in his team. They were ready—ready to face whatever came their way and do whatever it took to bring Sasuke back.
As the group set out into the forest, Shikamaru's mind was already calculating their next moves. The Sound Four were formidable, and they were likely not alone. But with this team, he believed they had a fighting chance.
They had to.
Meanwhile, back at Malik's mansion, tension filled the air. Sakura paced back and forth, torn between her feelings for Sasuke and her desperate desire to help bring him back. Her thoughts were a chaotic storm, swirling with memories, emotions, and the weight of the impossible choices ahead. Mikoto Uchiha and Kushina Uzumaki, sitting comfortably on a plush sofa nearby, watched her anxiously while occasionally glancing at the People Watching screen that Malik had summoned.
"I need to go!" Sakura said with a mixture of desperation and resolve. Her fists were clenched tightly at her sides, her eyes filled with determination. "He's my teammate. I can't just stand by and do nothing."
Malik stood quietly for a moment, watching her. His eyes softened with understanding, but his expression remained serious. "Sakura, I understand how you feel," he said softly, stepping forward. "But I don't think you should go."
Her head snapped up, her eyes narrowing in disbelief and anger. "What? Why not?" Her voice was sharp, but it wavered under the weight of her conflicting emotions.
Malik took another step closer, his presence calming yet firm. He gently placed a hand on her cheek, his thumb brushing lightly against her skin. "Because, Sakura," he began, his voice low and sincere, "you're not just going to bring him back. You might have to fight him. You might even have to… kill him."
Sakura's breath caught in her throat. The words hit her like a physical blow, and her eyes widened in shock. She tried to speak, but no words came out. The reality of Malik's words weighed down on her chest, and for the first time, she considered what facing Sasuke might truly mean. Tears welled up in her eyes, but she fought them back, her emotions teetering on the edge of spilling over.
Without warning, she grabbed Malik, pulling him into a fierce hug. Her strength, enhanced by her chakra control, was almost enough to crush him, but Malik endured the pressure without complaint. He simply held her, his arms wrapped protectively around her trembling form.
After a long, tense moment, Sakura whispered, her voice thick with emotion, "I don't know if I can do that. I can't fight him... I can't…"
Malik tilted her head gently, his fingers brushing the tears from her cheeks. His touch was warm, and his eyes were filled with compassion. "You don't have to," he said softly. "That's why you need to trust them. Let them bring him back. And trust me. I won't let anything happen to him or to you."
He leaned in and kissed her tears away, his lips brushing her cheeks gently, trying to offer her some semblance of comfort. Sakura closed her eyes, leaning into the warmth of his touch, but her heart still ached with the uncertainty of it all.
On the other side of the room, Mikoto Uchiha, Sasuke's mother, sat quietly, her hands folded in her lap. Her eyes, usually soft and warm, were clouded with concern. "Sasuke… I knew he would leave one day," Mikoto said quietly, her voice tinged with sadness. "Ever since Itachi's betrayal, I've felt him drifting further away from me, from the village. He always seemed so… lost. I tried to guide him, but I fear I failed him."
Kushina Uzumaki, Naruto's mother, leaned back in her chair, her fiery red hair framing her face as she listened intently. "Mikoto, you didn't fail him," she said firmly, her voice filled with conviction. "Sasuke is stubborn, just like his father was, and once he sets his mind to something, it's hard to pull him back. But he's not beyond saving."
Mikoto looked over at Kushina, her eyes filled with both hope and doubt. "You really believe that?"
Kushina nodded, her expression resolute. "I do. Naruto won't give up on him. He sees the good in Sasuke, and he'll fight to bring that part of him back, no matter what. And he's not the only one. You've raised a strong boy, Mikoto. But even the strongest need help sometimes."
Mikoto smiled faintly, her heart aching for her son. "I hope you're right. I want to believe that he'll find his way back to us."
Sakura pulled back slightly from Malik, listening to the women's words. She could feel the depth of their love and worry for Sasuke, and it mirrored her own feelings. Her heart was heavy, but Malik's presence gave her some peace.
"Sakura," Mikoto said, turning her gaze toward the young kunoichi. "You've always been there for him, and I know it's hard to stand aside now. But sometimes, the hardest thing we can do is to trust others to help those we love."
Kushina nodded in agreement. "Exactly. Sasuke needs to be saved from himself right now, and Naruto and the others are the best ones to do that. And don't forget, Malik will be keeping a close eye on things too. You've got people you can rely on."
Sakura swallowed hard, her emotions still raw, but Malik's steady hand on her back reminded her that she wasn't alone. She took a deep breath and nodded, though her heart still felt like it was breaking.
"I just want him to come back," Sakura whispered.
"And he will," Malik assured her, his voice a quiet promise. "Just trust in them."
With those words, a fragile sense of calm settled over the room. The night outside was still and dark, but inside, they shared the hope that Sasuke would one day return, not as a rogue, but as a brother, a friend, and a loved one.
Karin stood in the grand hall of Malik's mansion, her fiery red hair flowing loosely over her shoulders. The room around her was lavish and exuded an air of warmth, but despite the comfort, Karin couldn't shake the persistent feeling of obligation. Malik had saved her life and given her a second chance, but that sense of indebtedness lingered heavily in her heart.
"Malik," she began, her voice steady but serious, "what do you need?"
Malik, dressed in his signature pink and gold attire, smiled warmly. His presence was as calming as it was commanding, and despite the storm brewing beyond the walls of the mansion, he radiated an aura of control and reassurance. "Karin, I need your skills. Your sensory abilities are unmatched, and I have a mission that can't succeed without someone like you."
Karin's eyes widened slightly. The weight of the request hung between them, but she had long made up her mind. She owed Malik her life. "Of course," she responded, her tone firm. "What's the mission?"
Malik explained the situation—the urgency of tracking Sasuke and providing support to the team sent to recover him. As he spoke, Karin's resolve hardened. This was her chance not only to repay Malik but also to prove herself once more.
"You saved me, Malik," she said, her voice filled with unwavering determination. "I'll do whatever it takes to help."
Malik's smile deepened with approval. "I know you will."
With a flick of his wrist, a small, intricately embroidered pouch appeared in his hand. "These are medical herbs from the Land of Snow," he explained, handing it to her. "They've been imbued with chakra properties that enhance healing. Use them wisely—they're stronger than anything you've worked with before."
Karin took the pouch, her fingers grazing the soft material, and tucked it safely into her belt. She could already feel the faint hum of chakra resonating from the herbs inside.
Malik wasn't done, though. He waved his hand again, and a small platter appeared in front of her, filled with what looked like snacks. "And these," Malik added with a wink, "are my magical super snacks."
Karin raised an eyebrow, unsure of how to respond.
Malik laughed softly, sensing her confusion. "They'll give you a quick boost of energy, sharpen your senses, and even enhance your chakra control for short bursts of time. You'll find them handy in tough situations."
Karin's expression softened as she took the platter. "I'll use them well."
Malik placed a hand on her shoulder, his touch reassuring. "You'll be on support and back-up for this mission. If you feel like you need any tools or supplies for this mission, tell me. Whatever it is, it's yours. Money will never be an issue. I trust you, Karin."
Her chest swelled with gratitude, but she kept her voice steady. "Thank you, Malik. I won't let you down."
"I know you won't," he said with a final nod. "Now, go prepare. The team is counting on you, and I have no doubt that you're the perfect person for this."
With a determined smile, Karin turned on her heel and headed for her quarters. She was ready. Malik had given her more than a second chance—he had given her purpose. And she intended to fulfill it.
As Karin left to prepare, Malik watched her retreating figure with a thoughtful expression. His team was coming together, each member filling a vital role in what was bound to be one of the most challenging missions yet. The recovery of Sasuke was not just a rescue; it was a turning point.
---
Sai sat under the shade of a tall tree, his brush gliding effortlessly over a blank scroll. The ink from his brush formed sharp, precise lines that seemed to dance on the page. He was in his element, his mind focused on the simplicity of creation. That is, until he sensed a presence behind him.
"Always focused," Malik's voice broke the silence. His usual vibrant energy was a stark contrast to the quiet tranquility of the training grounds. Sai looked up from his sketch, curiosity flickering in his eyes as he met Malik's gaze.
"Sai," Malik continued, his tone respectful, "I have a mission for you. It's dangerous, but I wouldn't be here if you weren't the best at what you do."
Sai's expression remained calm, but there was a slight shift in his posture, a sign of his growing connection to those around him, particularly Shisui, who had been like a guiding light for him since joining Malik's household. "I'll join you," Sai said, his voice soft but firm. "I want to see what true friendship and loyalty mean."
Malik smiled, placing a reassuring hand on Sai's shoulder. "You're a good man, Sai."
The two stood in silence for a moment, the weight of the mission ahead unspoken but clear. Sai's skills were critical to the mission—his Super Beast Imitating Drawing technique allowed him to bring his creations to life with incredible speed and precision. Using his custom scroll, filled with ink and chakra, Sai could summon beasts, birds, and serpents in the blink of an eye, each of them crafted with the same care he applied to his art.
"I've got something for you," Malik said, pulling out a small bottle of red ink and a new brush from within his cloak. The bottle shimmered in the sunlight, the ink inside a deep crimson that seemed to pulse with energy.
Sai's dark eyes widened slightly as Malik handed him the bottle. He could feel the faint heat radiating from the red ink even before Malik explained its significance. "This ink is infused with fire chakra," Malik said with a grin. "It was very expensive to make, but the cost doesn't matter when it's for a mission like this."
Sai studied the bottle, already imagining the possibilities of combining his Super Beast Imitating Drawing with the fire-infused ink. Malik, sensing Sai's unasked question, continued, "The fire chakra in the ink will give your drawings an explosive edge. Imagine your beasts coming to life and then, when they strike, igniting into flames. You'll be able to control the intensity of the fire through your chakra—think of it as adding a little extra heat to your creations."
Malik handed Sai a new brush along with the ink. "I wasn't sure if mixing the normal ink with the red ink would be a good idea, so I got you a separate brush just in case. I also don't know what type of artist you are—whether you like to keep things neat and clean or experiment with mixing. So this way, you've got the option."
Sai nodded, appreciating the thoughtfulness. He could already feel the heat of the ink, sensing its potential. "Thank you, Malik," he said, though he was still processing how much this new tool could enhance his abilities.
Malik shrugged nonchalantly. "I'm working on other ink types, but they're not quite ready yet. If Shisui asks where you got the red ink… well, maybe you could lie for me?"
Without missing a beat, Sai gave a small smile, the first hint of humor breaking through his usually calm demeanor. "Nope. Shisui scares me too much for me to lie to her."
Malik chuckled, shaking his head. "That's fair. I don't blame you." He then asked, "Do you need any additional supplies or tools for the mission?"
Sai shook his head. "No, I still have all my old gear from the Root. It's sufficient for now."
Malik trusted Sai's judgment. The young artist had always been resourceful, and if he said he was prepared, Malik believed him. "Alright, then," Malik said, stepping back. "Get ready, Sai. You're going to play a big part in this mission."
Sai nodded, his mind already spinning with ideas on how to use the red ink. Malik left the training grounds, confident in Sai's abilities and knowing that the red fire-infused ink was now in capable hands. This mission was shaping up to be even more challenging than expected, but with Sai's unique abilities and a new tool at his disposal, Malik knew they had a fighting chance.
As Sai packed away his supplies, he couldn't help but feel a small sense of anticipation. Not for the danger ahead, but for the chance to see how far he could push his art, and in doing so, discover more about what it meant to be part of something bigger than himself.
The Hyuga garden was serene, a picture of elegance and tranquility. Hinata stood in the center, moving with fluid grace as she practiced her Gentle Fist techniques, each strike precise and filled with controlled chakra. The sun filtered through the leaves, casting soft light on the pale lavender blossoms that surrounded her.
Malik entered the garden quietly, allowed in because of his future marriage to Neji, his lilac-eyed fiancée with a large bosom, as he liked to affectionately recall. His presence was always welcomed in the Hyuga compound, and today was no different. Hinata noticed him immediately, her lavender eyes softening with a kind smile.
"Hinata," Malik began gently, stepping closer, his voice calm but filled with an underlying seriousness. "I wouldn't ask this of you if it wasn't important, but I need your help."
Hinata paused in her movements, standing straight as she faced him. Her usual shyness seemed to evaporate, replaced by a quiet resolve. "I'll do whatever I can," she replied earnestly. "What's the mission?"
Malik explained the dire situation involving Sasuke, the need to bring him back, and the importance of the upcoming mission. Hinata listened intently, her expression unchanging until the very end, when she nodded with determination. "I'll help bring Sasuke back," she agreed firmly.
Then, a soft sigh escaped her as she glanced away for a brief moment. "If I'm being honest, Malik… I've always been fond of Naruto, not Sasuke. He's always been the one I've admired and supported, even when no one else believed in him." Her voice was soft but carried the weight of years of quiet affection. "I was always kind to Sasuke, yes, but it was never out of love or admiration. That was never my reason. If anything, I never liked his attitude, his coldness."
Malik gave her a warm smile, understanding the complexity of her feelings. Hinata's dedication to Naruto had been unwavering, and it was no surprise that her motivation for joining the mission wasn't rooted in her relationship with Sasuke. "I appreciate your honesty, Hinata. I knew I could count on you."
Hinata's expression grew a bit more serious as she added, "But there's one problem. My father and the Hyuga clan—they would never allow me to leave on a mission this dangerous, especially not one involving something as volatile as retrieving Sasuke."
A sudden, rebellious glint appeared in her eyes—one Malik rarely saw from the normally gentle and obedient heiress. She took a small step closer to Malik, her voice lowering conspiratorially. "So, I need you to help me sneak out of the compound."
Malik's eyebrows shot up in surprise, followed by a wide grin. The idea of Hinata, the dutiful and respectful daughter of the Hyuga clan, asking to sneak out was unexpected, but there was something endearing about her request. He could see the fire of independence in her gaze, and it amused him more than anything.
"Well, well," Malik said, his tone playful. "Looks like you've got a little rebel in you after all, huh? No problem, bestie. I've got just the thing."
With a wave of his hand, Malik conjured a small shimmering portal, just large enough for them to slip through undetected. It bypassed the compound's usual security, leading directly out into the open world. Hinata's eyes widened as she watched the portal form, impressed by his effortless magic.
"After you," Malik said with a wink, gesturing toward the glowing portal as if it were an invitation to a grand adventure.
Hinata hesitated only for a moment before she stepped forward, her heart racing with excitement and a bit of nerves. She shot Malik a grateful smile. "Thank you, Malik. I won't let you down."
With a shared glance of understanding, the two of them passed through the portal, leaving the strict confines of the Hyuga compound behind. As they emerged on the other side, Hinata inhaled deeply, savoring the freedom and the crisp, open air. Malik grinned, knowing full well they had just pulled off a small victory.
"Looks like you're officially on the team now," Malik teased.
Hinata giggled softly, her determination growing with each passing second. Together, they headed toward the village gates to join the others, both fully aware of the challenges ahead, but neither of them wavering in their resolve.
With his team gathered—Karin, Sai, and Hinata—Malik caught up with Shikamaru and the others just before they set off. The atmosphere was tense; the stakes were higher than any of them had anticipated, and the mission loomed heavy in their minds.
Shikamaru, ever the pragmatic strategist, raised an eyebrow at the sight of the new arrivals. He folded his arms, assessing them with his usual skeptical gaze. "Malik, thanks for the extra help, but... who are these people?"
Malik, with his usual charm, flashed a grin. "Think of them as reinforcements. Trust me, Shikamaru, you'll need them. The Sound Four are tough, and we might be dealing with even more than that."
Shikamaru let out a frustrated sigh, his hand running through his hair. "I guess it makes sense. With Shino away on a mission with her father, Ino training with her dad, and Tenten off with Might Guy, we're short-staffed. I could have used more of your team, but I'm guessing they're on missions too?" he added, half to himself.
Malik nodded, mentally going over the absentees. If only things lined up better... but such is life, he thought.
Shikamaru, though skeptical, didn't argue further. Time was running short, and they couldn't afford to waste any of it second-guessing. He looked over at the two strangers Malik had brought, his brow furrowing slightly. "Alright, Malik. Give me the cliff notes on these two. I need to know who I'm working with."
As Malik introduced Karin, Naruto stood nearby, his usual carefree grin replaced with a more thoughtful expression. He wasn't one to judge people on their pasts, and he respected that Karin had chosen to support them despite her previous loyalty not being with the Hidden Leaf. Still, there was a wariness in his gaze—Naruto always trusted his instincts, and Karin was an unknown quantity to him.
Naruto's empathy for Karin ran deep. They were both Uzumaki, after all, and they shared that bond. He could sense the loneliness she tried to hide, something that resonated with him. But his focus remained on bringing Sasuke back. For now, Karin was an ally, and that was all he needed to know.
Karin, on the other hand, observed Naruto with a mix of curiosity and quiet admiration. She'd heard of his reputation—how he was willing to fight tooth and nail for his friends. It reminded her of Malik's protective nature. While her loyalty remained with Malik, Karin couldn't help but respect Naruto's resolve. He was powerful, but more than that, he cared deeply for those around him. In her mind, that was something rare and worthy of admiration.
With a glance at Shikamaru, Malik began to outline Karin and Sai's abilities, his tone serious but light-hearted enough to keep the mood from becoming too grim.
Karin's Skills and Abilities:
Sensory Perception: Karin's Mind's Eye of the Kagura allows her to sense chakra signatures over vast distances, track enemies, and detect changes in individual chakra flows. It's an invaluable skill for tracking and surveillance.
Healing Abilities: Through the Heal Bite, Karin can transfer her chakra to heal others, although it comes at a personal cost to her.
Chakra Chains: As an Uzumaki, she can materialize powerful chakra chains, capable of binding or attacking targets.
"Wait . . . can we all do that?" Naruto interupted.
"Not now." Shikamaru said shushing him.
Chakra Suppression: Karin is adept at hiding her chakra, making her difficult to track.
Elemental Ninjutsu: She's proficient in Earth, Water, Yin, and Yang Release, making her versatile in combat situations.
Shikamaru gave a curt nod. "A sensor and healer. That'll be useful." He looked to the other new recruit. "And this one?"
Sai's Skills and Abilities:
Ink Drawing Techniques: Sai can bring his ink drawings to life, summoning birds for transport or animals for combat. His Super Beast Imitating Drawing is fast and versatile, making him an excellent fighter from a distance.
Ink Clones: He can create clones of himself for reconnaissance or combat support.
Swordsmanship: Sai is proficient in close combat, wielding his tanto blade with precision.
High Intelligence: His training under Root means Sai is a strategic thinker, able to analyze opponents quickly and adapt in battle.
Stealth and Camouflage: Trained in Anbu tactics, Sai excels in blending into his surroundings and moving undetected.
Shikamaru hummed thoughtfully, clearly impressed. "You've brought a decent squad, Malik. They'll be an asset."
With the introductions over, Shikamaru faced the rest of the team and laid out the plan. "We've got one mission: bring Sasuke back. No matter what happens, we stick together and get him home. Understood?"
The team, their expressions serious, nodded in unison. They all understood the gravity of the situation. They weren't just chasing a rogue ninja; they were trying to save a friend.
As the team prepared to leave, Malik turned to his fiancées—Rock Lee, Kiba, and Neji—for a final farewell before they set out.
Rock Lee, always the embodiment of passion and enthusiasm, stood at attention. Malik approached her, placing a hand on her shoulder before leaning in for a kiss. The contact filled her with warmth, her already fiery spirit ignited further. "I'll return victorious," she promised, her voice full of energy. "With my youth, nothing will stop me!"
Kiba was next, her canine partner Akamaru at her side. She grinned at Malik's approach, her confidence and excitement evident. Malik kissed her, the gesture causing her eyes to light up with affection. "You'd better be watching," she teased, her voice playful yet serious. "I'll show you just how strong I've become." The bond between her and Malik gave her a renewed sense of purpose as she readied herself for the fight ahead.
Finally, Neji stood composed and serene, though there was a soft glimmer of emotion in her pale lavender eyes as Malik stepped toward her. The kiss they shared was one of calm reassurance, a rare moment of vulnerability for the Hyuga prodigy. "I'll return safely," she whispered, her voice firm and full of resolve. Malik's love grounded her, reminding her of what she was fighting for.
With the goodbyes said and done, Malik stepped back, his heart heavy as he watched the group gather at the edge of the village, ready to set off on their mission.
"Good luck," Malik called out, his voice steady but filled with emotion. "I'll be watching. You're all going to make it back."
As they set out into the forest, disappearing into the shadows of the trees, Malik stood in silence. He could feel the weight of the impending battle and the danger they would face. Although he trusted in their strength, a sense of unease still lingered in the air.
He prayed they'd all make it back—alive and whole.
Sasuke Recovery Team: Shikamaru, Naruto, Chōji, Kiba, Rock Lee, Neji, Karin, Sai, and Hinata.
Sasuke Capture Team: Kimimaro, Sakon and Ukon, Sasuke Uchiha, Jirōbō, Kidōmaru, Tayuya, Dosu Kinuta, Zaku Abumi, Kin Tsuchi.
And with that, the teams moved into the shadows, setting the stage for the inevitable clash that lay ahead.