Hey guys! Remember me? I can't believe it's been almost a year since I last updated this chapter. A lot of things happened, but in short, I was busy with my school projects and never had a chance to sit down and write a chapter. So somehow (I still can't believe it), I managed to write an 8k+ chapter for the story.

Now since it's a long time, I am still not sure how to contact my beta foxhikari, so there might be some grammatical errors, please bear with it.

I have been wondering if I should continue to the next cannon arc or, put a small filler arc in between. Finally, I decided to go with a filler arc.

Now moving on to acknowledgements, I would like to sincerely thank:

glenbob

gem1244

DetectiveJuice

marquis24mccullum

ulquioraschiferfan

Hidden Wolf 1989

alexanderq10

Naruto Uchiha X

vancecorpereal

Monkey D Ann

EverRose808

DevonnaDanielle

Anime-Niakz

Asia the Jester

storyrat

and WinterValentine

And special thanks to:

FoolishLittleBrother

buterflypuss

Shurikenyounot

and Guest for their awesome reviews

Now without any further adieu, here is the first part of the two-shot filler !

Chapter 12: The Love Mission

Knock…Knock…Knock…

"Team 7 reporting sir" Kakashi said as a man opened the door of a small hut.

"Oh, you must be the ninjas I requested for" the man who looked in his late twenties said as he opened the door "Um… are those kids with you?"

The man pointed at Naruto, Sakura and Sasuke who were covered with mud, grass, twigs and all sorts of dirt and had a few flies roaming around them. They had already finished 3 missions today all of which included cleaning the dirtiest places in the village. When Naruto tried making Shadow Clones for the assistance, Kakashi immediately stopped him saying that all of this is part of their physical training so no Jutsu are permitted to use. They were trying best to look professional but looked nothing more than cruddy kids and each of them were resisting the urge to hide somewhere esp. Sakura, who was sure that she would be a laughing stock for all the Sasuke's fan-girls if they ever saw her in this condition.

"These are my team members" Kakashi said "I am sure you requested our services for babysitting your children, right?"

"Yeah, me and my wife are going to the neighboring village to attend the festival and we can't take our kids due to some circumstances" the man explained but then narrowed his eyes at the 3 genins "But I won't allow some dirty kids to touch my children. In fact, they can't even enter the house like this"

Kakashi scratched his head unable to notice the twinkling eyes of his students "That is a problem"

"You know sensei" Naruto said "Since you are the only one who is neat and clean among us, why don't you start this mission and we will be back in a while?"

Just as the 3 of them were about to slip away, Kakashi appeared behind them putting his arms around Naruto and Sasuke "Ah, I have a better plan. Why don't I take a break while you go and take a shower and report back 30 minutes later?"

All 3 of them groaned in displeasure.

"To make it more interesting, those who failed to return on the time, they won't get any payment for today's missions" Kakashi eye-smiled.

"What!" Sakura said turning towards her sensei "How can you expect us to return in such a short time. I have to even wash my hair and eat my lunch and take a small nap. Why don't you guys…"

Sakura looked sideways to see both her teammates missing and Kakashi smiling under his mask.

Next day, much to the relief of Team 7, they were assigned only one mission and they had their day off after that.

"So all we have to do is clean the library and storehouse and rearrange the books and we are done" Kakashi instructed his students "The librarian is on a leave today so we are supposed to take care of the building until the librarian arrives.

"And where are you going?" Naruto crossed his arms as Kakashi turned to leave.

"Well… I am hungry. So I am going to grab a nice meal" Kakashi said.

"What the hell!" Sakura stomped her foot in annoyance "You are our sensei. Aren't you supposed to help us?"

"Wrong word dear" Kakashi said with his usual eye-smile "My job is to 'guide' you not 'help' you and I don't suppose you need my guidance in cleaning the library"

Kakashi went away with a small poof of smoke leaving 3 annoyed Genins behind.

"I will clean the storehouse" Naruto said going to the back door leaving Sakura and Sasuke by themselves.

"I will take the first floor then" Sasuke too went away towards the stairs of the library to fetch a broom and dust pan.

"That leaves me with the ground floor" Sakura said already thinking of plans to approach Sasuke since Naruto was smart enough to leave them alone.

Naruto had some problem opening the door which was already decorated with lots of cracks and was barely hanging from its hinges.

"No wonder they called ninjas for cleaning" Naruto sighed as he saw the storehouse which looked like it hadn't been open for ages and several books and scrolls were lying around and the whole room was covered with a thick layer of dust.

"I guess I could use a little help since Kakashi sensei isn't around" Naruto crossed his fingers and made 4 clones for help. But he immediately saw a twinkling eye in the corner and Kakashi came out from the hiding.

"No Jutsu allowed" Kakashi made an X position with his hands.

All the clones disappeared as Naruto's eye twitched "That bastard even left a clone for spying"

An hour later

"Hey Sasuke-kun, don't you think Kakashi sensei is a bit… imposing?" Sakura tried although all her attempts of talking were wasted when Sasuke either nodded or replied with a simple 'Hn' or most of the time, simply ignored her.

Sasuke simply ignored her once again as Sakura hung her face.

"Uh, Sasuke-kun… I need a hand here in the stairs" Sakura tried a last attempt

"In case you didn't noticed, I am already busy here. Instead of whining and annoying me, why don't you go and ask Dobe for help?" Sasuke said in his usual cold tone.

Sakura got a depressed look as the statement stopped her from any advancement.

"Ok, I will just finish up tables first and then I will go and check up on Naruto" Sakura said to herself as she began cleaning once again and planned to go to storeroom to check her blonde teammate. She didn't wanted Sasuke to think that she was actually bluffing.

"This is important. You have to understand" Konohamaru said to his friend who had a drip of snot hanging from his nose and was busy adjusting his glasses.

"Uh, but what if Iruka sensei noticed?" Udon said as he looked at Iruka sensei who was busy teaching the class.

Konohamaru was unwillingly sitting in the class listening to the lecture whereas his mind was somewhere else.

"Please Udon… it's important." Konohamaru said in a pleading tone.

Udon sighed "Fine but you owe me one Konohamaru"

"Of course. Now please hurry up" Konohamaru said.

Udon nodded and raised his hand "Iruka sensei"

Iruka lifted his face from the book and turned towards Udon "What is it?"

"I have been feeling something funny in my stomach. I think I am going to puke anytime now" Udon said in a hoarse tone clutching his stomach.

"Ah" Iruka quickly made his way to the little boy "I think you are sick. I have to immediately drop you to the nurse for a check-up"

Iruka turned towards the class "I will be back in five minutes. Read the chapter and we will discuss history of Second Hokage when I return"

Iruka left with Udon in his arms who secretly gave a thumbs up to his friend.

"Good, now I should be getting out" Konohamaru said to himself as the students began to throw paper balls at each other once Iruka was out of the building.

Naruto managed to clean the storehouse and arranged the scrolls and books in small shelves. Some of the books caught his eyes which were related to Fūinjutsu (Sealing Techniques).

"Naruto, are you done?" Sakura entered the room and was not surprised to see the room clean, books and scrolls all in their places and Naruto sitting on a small table with some books around him.

"What about you guys? Are you done cleaning the library?" Naruto asked without lifting his face from the book.

"No, there is still some work" Sakura said "Why didn't you come upwards if you are done here?"

"I don't want to become part of the sulking atmosphere around Sasuke" Naruto said to which Sakura growled but managed to control her anger.

"Anyway, I need some help with cleaning the stairs" Sakura said crossing her arms.

"Ask Teme" Naruto said without removing his eyes from the book "That lazy ass should be finished by now"

Sakura was sure that if Sasuke heard of this, he will strangle their blonde teammate without regret

"Stop acting like a child and come upstairs. There is a still lot of work to do" Sakura said in a strict tone and turned back to leave though she made a note to turn off the power to storeroom in case Naruto decided to ignore her.

When Sakura returned back, she saw Sasuke sitting at a table nearby stairs as he was finished with his work and surprisingly he also cleaned the stairs. Sakura was feeling really giddy at the moment but decided not to react to avoid annoying her Sasuke-kun.

"So…" said Sasuke who was actually hoping that Naruto will keep Sakura busy for sometime so that he may have some alone time but Sakura was back before he expected though he should have known that, since Sakura preferred to stay away from Naruto.

"Naruto is finished with his work and will be joining us shortly" Sakura said as she also took a chair and sat near Sasuke.

Just on cue, footsteps could be heard and Naruto appeared in the room holding a book and with annoyed expression.

"Who the hell just turned off the lights of the storeroom?" Naruto asked glaring at his teammates.

Sakura raised her hand "I did"

Naruto muttered some profanities before putting the book on table.

"So what do you need help for?" Naruto asked in a voice that clearly displayed his disinterest.

"Uh… actually I was hoping that you would help me clean the stairs but Sasuke-kun already did that when I was downstairs talking to you" Sakura's voice was a mixture of happiness and pride.

Naruto was about to say something but decided against it.

"Alright" Naruto picked the book and turned to go back in storeroom "I am going back downstairs. Call me when the librarian arrives"

"Oi, who do you think you are?" Sakura stood up pointing her finger towards Naruto "You are also supposed to look out in library. If you are so desperate to read that book, you can read it here and assist us in looking out for the library"

Naruto glared at Sakura for a while before giving up "Fine"

With a sigh, he sat down at the same table between Sakura and Sasuke causing the female team member to look at him annoyingly. She was expecting that Naruto will most likely yell some profanities at her and will return to storeroom to read the books he picked out. She was a bit annoyed to see Naruto giving up that easily

"Don't mind me" Naruto said understanding the stare Sakura was giving him "Please continue whatever important things you were discussing"

Naruto covered his face with the book as Sakura stood up and went to sit on the other of Sasuke.

"Sasuke-kun" Sakura began in her sweet tone "It's already past lunchtime, so how about we both-"

"Hey Dobe" Sasuke completely ignored Sakura's rant "Where did you get that book?"

Naruto looked at Sasuke from above the book "I found it in storeroom. This is the only copy there."

"Hn" Sasuke nodded "I want this book after you are finished with it"

Sakura frantically tried to regain the attention of her crush "So Sasuke-kun, as I was saying, it's past lunchtime and-"

Sakura was once again interrupted due to a small 'poof' sound and Kakashi was standing there with his ever constant smile.

"Hello there" Kakashi waved at his students "Looks like you have already cleaned the library"

"So is the mission finally complete?" Naruto asked "You always show up at the end after all"

Kakashi smiled before replying "Not today. The librarian will still take some time. So I just came to check you guys"

"Hn" Sasuke replied in his usual voice which was hard to identify if he is alright with this or not.

"What's in the bags?" Sakura pointed at the small bags which Kakashi was holding.

"These are for you" Kakashi placed the bags on the table "I thought you might be exhausted with all the work, so I brought lunch for you"

Sakura immediately opened the bags as she was feeling really hungry at the moment "Sushi!"

"Yup, this is a reward from me for not slacking off. You make me proud" Kakashi said with a smile.

Naruto and Sasuke rolled their eyes while Sakura was busy distributing the Sushi to her team members as well as herself. (She made sure Naruto gets the least portion while Sasuke gets most.)

"Alright, you guys are faring well as I can see. You can leave after the librarian arrives and collect your payment from Hokage tower" Kakashi said as he waved them goodbye and disappeared with a 'poof' sound.

"These are really good" Sakura said as she quickly devoured half of her share.

"I don't like them much" Naruto slid his plate towards Sakura "Here you can have my share too"

Sakura immediately slid the plate towards herself and transferred Naruto's share in her plate.

"Ne Sasuke" Sakura asked Sasuke who was eating his portion rather slowly "You want some more Sushi"

"No thanks. I am not fond of Sushi either" Sasuke replied.

And once again one of the many plans of Sakura for bonding with Sasuke failed before it could even began.

"Where could Konohamaru disappear to?" Iruka said as he was looking for Konohamaru for more than an hour "He just loves skipping classes. I hope he didn't get into planning his usual pranks. Now I must look in the woods"

As Iruka jumped from roof to roof, he failed to notice the small kid hiding under a vegetable cart.

"Phew, he's gone" Konohamaru wiped the sweat from his forehead "Now I have to find Boss before it's too late"

Konohamaru kept running around looking for a blonde teenager careful not to be caught by any academy teachers.

Left

Right

Above

Below

'Ok no one is around'

Kakashi slowly slips into the censored section of the library making sure his students didn't notice his presence.

Kakashi's eyes glinted as he saw many of his dream books. His ANBU skills really came in handy whenever he wanted to swap some erotic novels without anyone noticing.

Just as he was about to leave, he saw his students waiting for him with their hands crossed.

"I had a feeling you are up to something when you treated us to Sushi" Sasuke said "And I wasn't wrong"

Kakashi nervously smiled rubbing his head.

"No stealing from the library" Sakura said "Return all the books immediately"

Kakashi slumped his shoulder and returned the 4 magazines to Sakura before disappearing.

"Hey Naruto, why are you standing there? Come and help me" Sakura asked Naruto who was standing a bit far away from them.

"No way I am coming near to those smuts" Naruto made a weird face.

"Hn, you are such a moron" Sasuke said "Your Sexy no Jutsu is even more vulgar"

Naruto shrugged "It's actually effective. It's all that matters, isn't it?"

Sakura looked at Naruto with a disgusting look. Sasuke just ignored the reply.

Konohamaru finally arrived in front of the library.

"Boss should be here" Konohamaru said as he rushed inside the building.

"Boss!" Konohamaru yelled as soon as he entered the building.

Sasuke and Sakura appeared as they heard a kid yelling and entering the building.

"Where is Boss?" Konohamaru asked panting.

"Boss! Who is your boss? Do you mean the librarian?" Sakura asked as she looked at Konohamaru.

Konohamaru shook his head "I mean Naruto-bro. I heard he is here"

As on cue, Naruto appeared with a sandal in his hand "Oi Sakura, I got your culprit"

"AHHH!" Sakura screamed hiding behind Sasuke as Naruto was waving a dead cockroach in his other hand "Keep it away from me"

"For god's sake, you are a ninja. Stop getting afraid of a dead cockroach" Sasuke said as Naruto tossed the cockroach in the trash can in the corner and put his sandal back on his bare foot.

"Dobe, you have a visitor" Sasuke pointed at Konohamaru.

"Hey Boss" Konohamaru said with a wide grin.

"Konohamaru! What are you doing here?" Naruto was a bit surprised as he signaled the kid to sit as he was panting.

"I was looking for you the whole day" Konohamaru said.

"So you skipped the classes?" Naruto said crossing his arms as he too sat in front of Konohamaru.

"It's important" Konohamaru tried to argue.

"Dobe, since when did you started making underlings?" Sasuke said as he too sat down at the table followed by Sakura.

"He is the one who volunteered" Naruto said "I had no choice"

"I don't understand why you would want to make this moron your boss" Sasuke said causing Naruto's eye to twitch "He's a complete dumbass, if you ask me. You should look for someone better"

"Yes. You should look up to someone like Sasuke-kun. He is the best. He is the perfect role model for you" Sakura said with heart in her eyes and latching to Sasuke's arm causing the raven-haired Uchiha to free his arm and giving her a cold shoulder.

"Ignore my teammates. They get weird sometimes" Naruto said rubbing his forehead.

Konohamaru nodded. It was then he remembered.

"Wait a sec" Konohamaru said looking at Sasuke "You must be him"

Naruto saw Sasuke looking like he didn't care, but Naruto knew that Sasuke was actually smirking from inside. He seriously felt like kicking Sasuke under the table.

"Yeah, you are the Teme with the duck-butt hair. Boss told me about your love of tomatoes" Konohamaru said laughing.

The bubble of pride floating inside Sasuke's head burst immediately. Naruto controlled his laugh from escaping his mouth. The look on Sasuke's face was priceless. Naruto wanted to give a big hug to his apprentice and shower him all kinds of praises, but he controlled since this would be too weird for him.

"What did you said?" Sakura said gritting her teeth.

"Oh and you must be the annoying fangirl with big forehead" Konohamaru said as Naruto was getting more and more proud. He never thought that Konohamaru will remember the description he told him when Konohamaru asked about his teammates.

"You conceited little ape" Sakura growled as Konohamaru was now actually looking scared "I will bite your head off"

"Wait" Naruto said as Sakura was about to pounce on Konohamaru "Before you do anything reckless, remember the fact that he is the only grandson of Hokage-sama"

Just as Naruto thought, Sakura unwillingly calmed down letting Konohamaru give a smug look to her.

"And you" Naruto turned towards Konohamaru "Before Iruka sensei or anyone else comes here looking for you, better get out of here. I don't intend to take the blame for your class-skipping"

"But Boss, I came here because I need your help" Konohamaru said.

"Help? For what?" Naruto raised his eyebrow.

"Umm… you see I want you to do a top priority secret mission for me" Konohamaru said.

Naruto rolled his eyes as Sasuke snickered "What do you mean by top priority secret mission?"

"Well you see…" Konohamaru said nervously "I… Will you do the mission for me or not?"

"I am a Genin now Konohamaru" Naruto said "I take payments for the missions"

Konohamaru placed his big piggy bank on the table.

"I am completely sure that this piggy bank contains more than 3000 Ryō" Konohamaru said with a smug look "So you will do mission for me right?"

"Depends" Naruto said already tired of arguing with the kid "I mean your top secret mission could be finding where your old man hides the candies and sweets or-"

"No boss no" Konohamaru said banging the table with his fist "I am not some small child. You are taking this really lightly"

"If it's as serious as you proclaim it to be" Naruto said "then why do you think I can do it? You should ask some Chunin or Jonin to help"

"No Boss Not a chance" Konohamaru violently shook his head"This is supposed to be a secret mission. I don't want Grandpa to know about any of this. The best option, as much as I hate it, you can take the help of your teammates"

Naruto sighed and covered his face with his hands whereas Sasuke and Sakura glared at Konohamaru for his attitude.

"Ok, let's hear it" Naruto said, giving up "But I am already warning you that if this is some childish prank or something like that, I am not going to do it"

"I promise it's nothing funny" Konohamaru said "But… you will also have to promise me that you will keep this a secret from Grandpa and Ebisu"

"Ok fine" Naruto said getting a bit serious "So how can Team 7 help you?"

Konohamaru's face was completely red as he began to speak "I… I am…"

"Oh come on. Stop stuttering. We don't have whole day to listen" Sakura said as Konohamaru began to fidget with his fingers.

Konohamaru took a deep breath before answering "I am… in love"

Silence

More silence

And more silence.

"Eh?" came the simultaneous reply of all 3 Genins who had their eyes the size of a saucer plate.

"What…" Naruto composed himself before he asked "What does this have to do with the mission?"

"I want you people to make her fall for me" Konohamaru said as Naruto almost slipped from his chair in surprise.

"Where did this come from?" Naruto asked to himself.

"Hn" Sasuke replied with his usual tone "Do we look some kind of love counselors to you?"

"You should focus on your studies and training moron" Naruto said flicking Konohamaru's forehead "You can make a girlfriend when you are a little older"

"But Boss, the problem is that she is leaving the village tomorrow evening" Konohamaru said in a desperate tone "I have to confess my true feeling before that"

"Where did you even get this stuff to fit in your little head?" Naruto asked.

"Boss, are you helping or not?" Konohamaru crossed his arms.

"No" Naruto said "I am not an expert in the matter and if Kakashi sensei or your grandpa find about it, they are going to be disappointed"

"But Boss, if I didn't managed to talk to her, this will always hurt me my entire life" Konohamaru said it with equal determination.

"Konohamaru" Naruto countered "if she is leaving, then does it really matter if you confess your feeling to her or not?"

Konohamaru looked at Naruto with a grumpy face.

"Pft" Sasuke smirked "Seriously Dobe, you shouldn't give any love advice"

Naruto glared at Sasuke before turning back to Konohamaru. He was seriously embarrassed that he is actually thinking about helping Konohamaru.

"And besides, I don't think I can be of much help. You should ask someone expert. Maybe someone close to her or some female since she is a girl" Naruto tried to make a list on fingers.

"Boss-" Konohamaru tried once again.

"Sorry Konohamaru but it's a no from me" Naruto said as he looked at Sasuke who was sitting casually not even paying attention "And I suggest you don't take Sasuke's help either. He will just end up adding another girl in his fan-girls list"

An anime vein popped at Sasuke's forehead as he glared murder at Naruto who just ignored him.

Konohamaru hung his face "So I guess I am not getting any help"

Konohamaru stood up and picked up his piggy bank and went away.

Team 7 just watched Konohamaru leave the building before Sakura broke the silence.

"You know, I actually feel sorry for him. He must be heartbroken" Sakura said as she supported her face over her left hand.

"It's not like we could have done anything either" Naruto said "I could just hope that he don't mull too much over this"

"And of all the people" Sasuke said "He has to come to this Dobe with his love problems. I wonder what he must be teaching to his underling"

"Accept it Sasuke" Naruto said pointing a finger at Sasuke "You are just jealous that I have an underling and all you have are annoying fan-girls"

Sasuke just turned his head away "Hn, who wants some annoying underling anyway?"

"It's really boring here. I need to go home and take a nap. Would you two mind covering for me?" Sakura said standing up.

"Yeah whatever" Naruto said yawning "It's not like Kakashi sensei will come now. We are all that remains. Go take your sweet nap"

"Hn" Sasuke replied shortly. Since he didn't cared to add anything else, Sakura took it as a yes or his I-don't-care tone.

"OK guys, see you tomorrow" Sakura stood up looking at Sasuke expecting some farewell but when he just ignored her, Sakura understood that today is not her lucky day.

Sakura exited the library and skipped towards her home.

"I guess I will buy that expensive perfume which is on sale. Then I will smell like spring flowers and Sasuke will fall for me" Sakura covered her face with her palms to hide her blush.

Just then she noticed Konohamaru sitting on a bench with a gloomy face.

"Hey" Sakura decided to cheer him up a bit "What are you doing here?"

Konohamaru looked at Sakura then turned his face down again "Just thinking if I should take help from Iruka sensei or not?"

Sakura shook her head as she joined him on the bench "Still possessed over that love matter?"

"Of course" Konohamaru said "I just can't give up yet. Even if I am alone, I will do it no matter what"

"If this girl is anything like a normal girl" Sakura said a smile tugging her lips "you will just end up embarrassing both of you"

"Huh?" Konohamaru narrowed his eyes towards Sakura.

"I am a girl so I know what females will expect from a boy" Sakura said proudly "Making a girl fall in love with you is not as simple as it sounds. First you have to know her and understand her. And then you have to present yourself as if you are the perfect guy for her and then…"

Sakura kept going on for minutes. Konohamaru wasn't paying attention to whatever Sakura was saying but focused on Sakura's knowledge. It was then that Konohamaru got the idea.

"Hey, why don't you help me?" Konohamaru said looking happily towards Sakura.

"Me? No way" Sakura crossed her arms as she stood up "I just came to cheer you up. My job is done so I am going home"

Just as Sakura was leaving, she found her path blocked by Konohamaru.

"Oi, get out of my way" Sakura yelled.

Instead of getting out of the way, Konohamaru simply looked at Sakura's face with a serious look before replying "I know you have feelings for Uchiha-san. Isn't it?"

Sakura looked at Konohamaru with incredulous look before nodding with a sigh.

"So how would you feel if your crush decided to date some other girl even before you could manage to tell your feelings to him?" Konohamaru asked.

Sakura was shocked to hear this statement from Konohamaru. As much as Sakura tried to ignore it, the gears in her mind began to turn rapidly as a scene began to play in her mind.

Inside Sakura's head

Sakura was standing in an open field that seemed more like one of the training grounds of Konoha.

"Why am I here?" Sakura wondered as she was looked around and saw that she is the only one here.

"Sakura"

Sakura turned behind to see Sasuke standing there and he was coming towards her.

Sakura's heart began to race as she noticed Sasuke getting closer to her.

Sasuke stopped just in front of Sakura. She noticed that Sasuke never came that close to her.

"I have to tell you something" Sasuke said in a serious yet calm voice.

Sakura nodded vigorously.

"I am in love" Sasuke with a dreamy voice.

Sakura's face turned a dark shade of red on hearing this. Oh, how long she wished to hear these words from her Sasuke-kun. She prepared herself to hear those 3 magical words.

"…with Ino" Sasuke finished in the most romantic voice he could muster.

Suddenly all her hopes and future visions came crashing down over Sakura. All the dreamy looks from her eyes as well as blush on her face immediately vanished.

"Huh?" Sakura couldn't believe her ears.

"There she is" Sasuke said smiling looking past her shoulders

Sakura turned behind to see her arch-rival coming towards them.

"Hey Sasuke-kun" Ino waved and was immediately pulled in arms of Sasuke Uchiha.

Sakura was completely dumbfounded. Sasuke, who get irritated even the slight touch from a girl, was now openly hugging Ino and didn't let go for a few seconds.

After they separated, Sasuke and Ino had blush on their faces.

Sakura couldn't believe her eyes. Sasuke Uchiha was actually blushing!

"Sasuke-kun" Ino said in a sweet voice "Why did you called me here?" she looked at Sakura who was still watching the scene like a fish out of water "And what is she doing here?" Ino asked looking at Sakura with a frown.

"Don't worry my love" Sasuke said to Ino "I just called her to clear some things so that she won't follow me any longer"

"You" Sasuke said to Sakura who came at full attention as she saw Sasuke turning to her "I want you to stay at least 10 feet away from me now onward. I don't want my girl to get upset because of you"

The way Sasuke said 'my girl' made Sakura's heart clench. All she wanted was to jump and pummel the platinum blonde hair girl who was looking lovingly at Sasuke.

Sasuke once again turned towards Ino as he took her hands in his own.

"Ino" Sasuke said in a husky voice "I want to tell you something important"

Ino nodded in happiness.

"I have wanted this to tell you since the very first time I laid my eyes on you. But I guess this is the best moment for telling you"

Ino and Sakura felt their eyes widen as Sasuke went on his knees and pulled out a ring from his pocket and flashed it in front of Ino.

"I love you Ino. Please marry me"

While Ino turned the darkest shade of red possible for any girl, Sakura felt her jaw hitting the floor.

Ino stopped herself as some tears of joy slipped from her eyes. She just covered her mouth and vigorously nodded.

Sasuke stood up smiling ear to ear and immediately enveloped Ino in a tight hug which she responded immediately.

"Oh Sasuke, I can't believe I am so lucky" Ino said nuzzling her face in his chest "I love you too Sasuke-kun"

Sakura was just watching the whole scene like a helpless spectator. She wanted to run away trying to forget whatever she has seen or heard but her legs weren't obeying her. She saw both of them separating from the hug. It was when Sasuke's hand flew towards Ino's face, did Sakura realize what was coming next.

"No no no no… not that not that" Sakura tried fervently to break their attention but both of them were too busy looking at each other that they never paid any attention to Sakura.

Sasuke cupped Ino's face in her palms "God, you are so beautiful darling"

Ino looked shyly towards Sasuke who was now leaning forward. Ino too closed her eyes and leant forward to meet Sasuke's lip halfway.

Just when their lips were a second apart from meeting, Sakura closed her eyes and shrieked in a high pitch.

Back to real world

Konohamaru flew backward as Sakura let out a monstrous shriek. Konohamaru was watching as Sakura zoned out a few minutes earlier making weird facial expressions. She made a surprised face first which turned into happy, shy, blushing, shocked, sad, crying, and angry followed by her monstrous shriek.

"What was that?" Konohamaru stood up and rubbed his head as he watched Sakura's demonic aura.

Konohamaru cowered as he saw Sakura glaring bullets into him.

"Scary" Konohamaru cowered in fear.

"Sasuke-kun is mine" Sakura said in a demonic voice to which Konohamaru nodded immediately out of fear.

Just on cue, Ino walked by noticing her rival and decided to tease her.

"Hey big forehead, what are you- "Ino stopped immediately as she saw Sakura turning towards her and had an evil aura around her.

Sakura was in front of Ino in a flash as she grabbed her collar and yelled "Sasuke-kun is all mine. I won't lose to you Ino pig"

Sakura turned towards Konohamaru "You follow me"

Sakura walked towards the market with a clueless Konohamaru following her.

A surprised Ino blinked a few times before asking herself "Ok, what was that?"

Finally after long and tiring hours of waiting, the librarian finally returned making Naruto and Sasuke relax.

"Ah, so the librarian-san is back at last" Kakashi said who mysteriously appeared as soon as the mission was completed.

"By the way, where is Sakura?" Kakashi said looking around.

"She already went home. She was not feeling well, so she had to leave early" Naruto replied stretching his body to get rid of the sleepy feeling.

Kakashi nodded "Ok, so now let's get going boys"

Naruto and Sasuke followed Kakashi to the counter.

"I remember you telling us that you will meet us tomorrow" Naruto said.

"I changed my mind" Kakashi said in a matter-of-fact tone.

"Figures" Sasuke whispered as he went to the librarian to get his signature on the mission scroll.

While taking the signature of their client, Sasuke couldn't help but notice that the librarian was staring at him and Naruto.

"What?" Sasuke finally snapped.

"You are an Uchiha right?" the librarian asked him.

There it goes again. Sasuke readied himself for another shower of pities and affectionate glance from another person of the village. Sasuke completely hated this but he had to keep calm since the person in front of him is a client.

Sasuke nodded slightly.

"And you are an Uzumaki?" The librarian pointed at Naruto.

"Uh, yeah" Naruto had sort of similar thoughts to Sasuke about the person pitying him for getting kidnapped and tortured or lashing at him about the beast he is, but he managed to take it in a more positive way.

"Ah, an Uchiha and an Uzumaki teaming up… isn't that wonderful?" the librarian clapped his hands together.

Naruto and Sasuke sweat-dropped at the man's cheerfulness

"Yes, they are my adorable students. They are my best apprentices ever" Kakashi patted their heads affectionately.

Of course, leave it to Kakashi to over exaggerate things esp. when it involves irritating someone.

"I am sure of it" the man said "Now I think this might be an unusual request and you have every right to decline it" the man took out a camera from his drawer "but would you mind if I take a photo of you two standing together. This is such a rare moment. And I would love to capture it" the men looked at them expectantly.

Before Sasuke or Naruto could reject, Kakashi covered their mouth with his hands.

"Of course, they would love it" Kakashi said making both of them glare at their sensei.

"I am glad to hear it" the librarian said smiling as he called them out in front of the building.

Naruto and Sasuke stood 5 feet apart from each other both frowning and looking in opposite directions.

"Boys, behave" Kakashi said as he took the role of their instructor "Both of you come close to each other"

Kakashi ushered them to get closer and closer to each other until their shoulders were touching.

"Ok, now Naruto put your arm around Sasuke's shoulder"

Naruto glared at Kakashi but did it nonetheless.

"Sasuke do the same"

Sasuke too put his arm around Naruto's shoulder though with a glare much worse than Naruto.

"Now both of you smile" Kakashi motioned them with his hands.

Naruto and Sasuke managed to produce their version of painful smiles as the photo was clicked.

"Perfect" the librarian said "Now Kakashi-san, how about joining them?"

"Of course" Kakashi said as he skipped towards the duo and put a hand around their shoulders smiling as both boys were now scowling. Fortunately, the librarian didn't mind it as he clicked another photo.

"Now would you two please put your forehead protector like your sensei? It looks cool" the man requested.

With a sigh, Naruto and Sasuke slid their forehead protectors to cover their left eye making it look like an eye patch.

"Ah, that was wonderful. Thank you guys" the librarian bowed to them.

"Are you sure you don't want to take more photos?" Kakashi asked as Naruto and Sasuke glared dangerously at their sensei.

"No. this must be enough. I believe you have more important jobs waiting. So I won't prefer holding back you guys" the librarian said.

"Ok, but please make sure to send me the copies of the photos after you develop them" Kakashi said smiling.

"Ha-ha-ha… I will remember sending you the photos Kakashi-san" the librarian said as the three took their leave.

All 3 of them were silent for a while before Kakashi broke the silence.

"You were more obedient this time. I am planning to take our Team 7 group photo once again"

"No!" both boys yelled at once. In Team 7 photograph, both Naruto and Sasuke were looking away from each other with scowls on their face as Sakura was giving a very cheerful smile and Kakashi was giving his usual eye smile while patting Naruto and Sasuke on their heads.

They were silent once again and this time it was Sasuke who broke the silence.

"It's strange he didn't mention anything about…" Sasuke said more to himself.

"He came to this village 2 years ago. The village secrets are always kept from the newcomers, though I was hoping that he might have heard of the massacre" Kakashi said.

"What massacre?" Naruto asked.

"Nothing" Sasuke said.

Naruto sighed. He guessed this was something concerning Sasuke and he wasn't planning to pry into it. He will learn about it from books or records.

"Say Kakashi sensei" Naruto turned towards Kakashi.

"Hmm, what is it Naruto?" Kakashi asked. Naruto's face was showing a rare curiosity.

"Is my clan supposed to be famous?" Naruto asked "I mean he was surprised I belong to Uzumaki clan. I thought he might be curious about… you know what"

"What are you talking about?" Sasuke asked.

"Nothing" Naruto returned the reply.

Sasuke glared at Naruto before turning his focus to the road again "You are such a moron. You don't have any idea about your own clan"

Naruto didn't reply since Sasuke was right. He never gave much thought about his clan. Now he was curious as hell.

"Ok, looks like I need to tell you about your clan. So it's time for Kakashi Sensei's Ninja Food for Thought.

"Huh, what a weird title" Sasuke narrowed his eyes but was ignored.

"Ok, I don't know much but I think it would be sufficient" Kakashi said as a display board appeared magically in front of them with several maps and notes "The Uzumaki clan share distant blood relation with the famous Senju clan. The clan is famous for its Fūinjutsu (Sealing Techniques) among other things. This skill earned them both respect and fear throughout the ninja world. They originally resided in Uzushiogakure which was destroyed some years before Third Great Shinobi War, since many nations banded together to destroy the village because they considered the village to be a threat and it was also a big ally of Konoha. It was one of the biggest village destructions in the ninja history. The survivors of the destruction went into hiding and spread throughout the world"

Kakashi looked at his students who were listening closely. Even Sasuke was paying full attention.

"First Hokage and Fourth Hokage's wives were also Uzumaki" Kakashi said "and apparently Naruto's mother was also Uzumaki"

"I guess you are not telling me anymore about my parents" Naruto said as Kakashi nodded in reply.

"Uzumaki clan might be spread throughout the world. But on official records, only Naruto is the remaining Uzumaki" Kakashi said to which Sasuke narrowed his eyes.

"Alright enough talk about my clan. Now can we just go to Hokage Tower and collect the reward? I am already getting hungry" Naruto said as he walked ahead followed by Sasuke and Kakashi.

Meanwhile, Sakura and Konohamaru were sitting in one of the secluded places of the village where Sakura was sure that nobody will disturb them.

"Ok, so tell me whatever you know about that girl" Sakura said with a serious expression but instead Konohamaru had tears in his eyes.

"Um… what happened?" Sakura asked in a confused tone.

"I still can't believe you agreed to help me" Konohamaru said while wiping his unshed tears.

"I can't tell him that I am doing this just so to prove myself that I am better than Ino when it comes to matters related to love and if I managed to complete this mission successfully, maybe Sasuke-kun will fall for me" Sakura thought happily.

"Well, that was just because I took pity on you and I thought that you will just embarrass yourself in presence of that girl" Sakura tried her best not to show the giddy feeling on her face as Konohamaru illustrated a detailed description about how he met the girl.

"Hey Sakura-san, let's do something really cool" Konohamaru said with fire in his eyes "Something that would make me shine, something that will make her fall for me, something which-"

"Yeah ok, I get it. Now let me think of a plan" Sakura said already in her thinking pose "By the way, what is her name?"

Konohamaru had heart in his eyes as he spoke "Isamu-chan, my Isa-chan"

"Too possessive" Sakura remarked "What about her family?"

"Her father is one of the wealthiest merchants of the village. He is also one of the council members. Her brother works as an assistant to his father. Her mother is a Chunin rank ninja but was deprived of her duties on the condition that she swore secrecy to all the secrets of the village"

"And why are they leaving the village?" Sakura asked clearly interested.

"Her father wants to expand their business so they need to travel across many villages and countries. But he didn't wanted to leave without his family. So once her mother got the permission to leave the village, they are planning to leave the village tomorrow evening" Konohamaru concluded.

"Wow, you have done your research" Sakura said clearly impressed.

Konohamaru gave a sheepish smile as he rubbed his hand behind his head.

"Now, frankly speaking, impressing a girl in one day is really tough" Sakura said to which Konohamaru frowned.

"…but not impossible" Sakura finished and Konohamaru was once again cheered.

"I would really need help of more persons if we have to do this" Sakura said "Since no one else comes to mind, I have to somehow force Sasuke-kun and Naruto to cooperate"

"How? Boss said he can't help and Sasuke-san too was in denial about helping us" Konohamaru said.

"I think… I have a plan for that" Sakura grinned and Konohamaru didn't like this a bit.

(The scenes will be rapidly switched for this conversation)

Naruto was taking his much needed rest on his bed when he was disturbed by the rapid knocking on his door.

Naruto stretched his arms before standing up and walking to greet his visitor.

As he opened the door, he saw Konohamaru standing there.

"Konohamaru what are you doing here?" Naruto said rubbing his eyes "I have to go to sleep"

-XXX-

"This is Uchiha Compound. You can't enter this territory on your own free will unless you have permission from Hokage or an Elite Jonin" Sasuke said crossing his arm as he was disturbed from his dinner due to his persistent stalker teammate.

"It's important" Sakura said trying to ignore how tempted he is looking as she saw some of his dinner sticking to the corner of his lips.

"Hn, make it quick" Sasuke said crossing his arms.

"It's about that kid Konohamaru. Naruto and I have decided that we are helping that kid and I want your help too" Sakura said as Sasuke raised his eyebrow.

-XXX-

"So if you, that Teme and his fangirl had already formed your team, then what did you need me for?" Naruto asked his little apprentice.

"Come on boss, you know that you are really important for the mission" Konohamaru urged

-XXX-

"Hn, you Naruto and that midget can go and do all those romance things. I am not interested in these stupid things. Good night and all the best for your… love mission" Sasuke said as he prepared to close the door.

"Should have listened to Naruto" Sakura muttered loud enough for Sasuke to hear.

-XXX-

"What did you said?" Naruto said as he glared down at Konohamaru.

"Oh nothing special" Konohamaru acted as if he was trying to ignore Naruto's questioning look and it worked as Naruto's glare turned worse.

"What…did…Teme…said?" Naruto asked.

"Good, it's working" Konohamaru mentally cheered as he saw Naruto's curious face.

"He said that… you are not suitable for this job" Konohamaru replied as an anime vein popped up on Naruto's forehead.

-XXX-

"What the hell did he mean by that?" Sasuke asked gritting his teeth and left eye twitching.

"He said that you would just chicken out at the last moment since you don't have guts to face the females. You just get a hell lot of nervous when your fan-girls approach you and you just get broody because you are trying to hide your nervousness" Sakura felt extremely bad insulting her future husband but she had to be strong if she wanted to be a strong kunoichi.

Sasuke was literally fuming as he clawed at his door making scratches.

"That Dobe needs to learn a lesson" Sasuke said "I am coming"

"But you just said…" Sakura was happy but she had to check.

"Forget it" Sasuke said "Now this is a matter of Uchiha pride. And I would like to see his dumb face when I prove him that he is a loser"

"OK… meet at the academy gates in thirty minutes" Sakura said as she left Sasuke cursing his blonde teammate.

"Phew" Sakura sighed in relief "I hope Konohamaru too manages to convince Naruto"

-XXX-

"Say that again" Naruto said fuming in anger towards his brooding teammate.

Konohamaru sighed before he repeated what Sakura had told him to say "He said that you are too dense and a big moron when it comes to girls. With your sulking face, you would just scare the girls away. You are no good for this job. The only thing you are skilled at is licking ramen broth from the bowl. He also said that you are really perverted type" Konohamaru could see Naruto emitting a killer aura.

"You know what, I am coming. I will show him who is moron." Naruto said as he cracked his knuckles.

"Awesome" Konohamaru said "Meet us in front of the academy in 30 minutes"

Konohamaru left Naruto who now was now planning to smack his other male teammate the next time he see him.

Sakura was waiting for her little partner-in-crime when Konohamaru returned with a grin on his face that already answered the question Sakura was about to ask.

"So I presume Naruto is coming?" Sakura still needed to confirm.

"Yeah, though boss is really angry now" Konohamaru said.

"I guessed as much" Sakura said, for once, not in her fan-girl mode.

"Never thought she could be this smart" Konohamaru muttered under his breath.

"You said something?" Sakura looked at Konohamaru.

"Nothing" Konohamaru replied "Let's wait for Boss and Sasuke-san"

Sakura finally realized the mistake of her planning when Naruto and Sasuke arrived at the same moment and the first thing they did was glare at each other and kept glaring at each other without even blinking once. Both of them refused to back off until Sakura decided that it's getting too much and decided to bonk Naruto on his head.

"Ow, what the hell Sakura?" Naruto said while rubbing his head.

"That's for screwing around. If you messed up any longer, I will make sure that my next hit is even more painful" Sakura warned.

"Bitch" Naruto muttered while covering his injury

"Alright then" Sakura cleared her throat to gain the attention "I know that this is a really short notice for us, but we have to do our best to help our client" Sakura pointed towards Konohamaru who was looking intently towards Naruto and Sasuke "Now from what I have learned from Konohamaru, that girl is leaving at sunset tomorrow. So we have to do everything to make her last day in this village a special one"

"And make her fall in love with me" Konohamaru said raising a finger "I expect good results from you. Don't disappoint me"

"Little bastard" Naruto and Sasuke thought at same time, giving a quick glare to each other "If it wasn't for this Dobe/Teme, I wouldn't even bother with this stupid mission"

"So Haruno-san, what do you have in mind?" Konohamaru gave a curious look to Sakura

"Hmm…" Sakura begin to think "I think we should first pay a visit to this girl. I have to know what type of girl she is"

"I think I already told you about that" Konohamaru scrunched his eyebrows

"All you were doing was gushing over that girl 'Oh, she has mesmerizing eyes', 'She has loveliest smile', 'She has long beautiful hair'…and blah blah blah" Sakura said mimicking his voice "That wasn't a least bit helpful"

Sakura then turned towards her teammates "We will follow Konohamaru to that girl's house and Konohamaru will make a small talk with her. After that, I will come up with the next course of action"

"And you Konohamaru" Sakura turned towards the little kid "On the way, I will give you some instructions about what you are going to talk about" Konohamaru gave a small nod "So any questions?"

Naruto raised his hand.

"Yes?" Sakura was a little happy that her teammate was taking interest.

"Who the hell made you the leader?" Naruto asked with a deadpanned face

"SHUT UP" Sakura growled

And the little respect she had for her blonde teammate was gone… just like that

"Uh, I think it's not a good idea" Konohamaru said as Sakura was listing the possible excuses Konohamaru could make for dropping by late at night.

"Huh, what do you mean it's not a good idea?" Sakura gave a confused look

"This" Konohamaru pointed at his yellow shirt where Sakura had stuck a red rose on the left breast pocket

"Why? What's wrong with that?" Sakura asked

"Nothing as long as her father or brother didn't notice it" Naruto said, hands behind his head "The moment they notice it, it's either his burial or we will be seeing girl's parents having 'the talk' with boy's grandfather"

"Gah!" Konohamaru clutched his face "If Grandpa heard of this, he will never shut up about this"

"Hn, you sound like he is some kind of lolicon" Sasuke said "I am sure he has a right to know about your love matters"

"No way" Konohamaru crossed his hands "Remember, this is supposed to be a top secret mission"

"Hm…" Naruto had an impatient look on his face "Now, can we please go to that girl's house and get it over with?"

"Boss! Can you please stop referring her as 'girl' already?" Konohamaru puffed his cheeks "Her name is Isamu… Isamu Kagetsu"

"Yeah yeah, I got it" Naruto said nonchalantly "Now let's just get moving"

"Alright" Konohamaru said as he skipped alongside Naruto "Let's do it"

"Hey, don't rush like that" Sakura shouted as she followed the duo

"I should have refused" Sasuke said to himself as he slowly followed his team members

That brings an end to the twelfth chapter of the story. I hope you liked it.

As I might have mentioned before, English is not my first language so there may be some grammatical mistakes here and there. Please bear with it.

Next chapter we will see the conclusion to this arc. Will Konohamaru be able to express his feelings to Isamu? Or there will be a new problem?

I will do my best to bring the next chapter ASAP, but you may have to wait.

Until then, it's a goodbye from NBD. See ya!

PLEASE REVIEW!

P.S.- Anyone know when the next series in Naruto will be out?