Blanket disclaimer: All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. The author is in no way associated with the owners, creators, or producers of any media franchise. No copyright infringement is intended. I do not claim any rights to Naruto or any characters associated with the anime/manga, and no money is made from this story.

Author's detailed warning for this story please read: This story contains slash pairings; (Sasuke/Naruto), manga spoilers; up to vol 39, altered time line; after previously mentioned chapter is from my own imagination, adult situations, a few Japanese words; translation is at the bottom of the page. Cursing, crude humor, rimming, soloM (male masturbation), voyeurism, and detailed sexual act between two men (lemons). If you are not of age to be reading such things, or anything listed above is offensive to you then please push the back button now. Reviews and comments are encouraged and appreciated as long as they are not flames.

My deepest thanks to Jaded Lady for her work as beta on this story. Iappreciate all your hard work.

'thinking'

"talking"

O0o.o0O

Hands clasped Shizune stood silently, watching her mentor's face turn an impressive shade of red, the poor woman's blood pressure was probably sky high by now. The source of Tsunade's stress sat across from her, Homura and Koharu.

"I will ask you again Tsunade." Koharu asked, obviously not liking the previous answer she had gotten. "What are your plans for protecting Konoha from this problem?"

"And I'm telling you, that appropriate measures are being taken and as of now there is nothing to protect this village from."

Scoffing the council woman rolled her eyes. "Really now Tsunade, you should take responsibility for problems you had a part in creating."

"What in the hell is that suppose to mean?"

"Was it not you who decided to allow Naruto Uzumaki to wander around outside of the village, even after we requested the boy not leave?"

Shizune bit her lip watching Tsunade, her hands were clenched so tightly her knuckles had turned white, Shizune wouldn't be surprised if Tsunade's palms had indentations in them.

"I explained my reasons for allowing Naruto to continue to take missions." She reminded them, her voice eerily calm for how angry she appeared. "With the way the two of you harp about protecting the village I would think you'd be glad I wasn't taking the chance of having Akatsuki come to Konoha after Uzumaki, especially after what happened in Suna."

The room was actually silent after that comment, a very uncomfortable silence. Taking a chance Shizune took a deep breath.

At the sound of Shizune's breath Koharu cleared her throat. "You still don't understand what it is you've done, do you? I for one am not surprised by your lack of knowledge or your attitude, I'm just glad your grandfather and your sensei; the Sandaime, aren't here to see the piss poor job you're doing as Hokage." Seemingly unaffected by Tsunade's angry hissing at her words the elder kunoichi smoothed her robe. "While it's true we could see the wisdom in allowing the Uzumaki boy to continue with missions to make it harder for the Akatsuki to locate him and lessen the threat to the village, we are however having a problem understanding why you sent him to look for the very person who now holds him captive." Shaking her head Koharu added. "Not your most intelligent move Tsunade."

"Why you pompous ass . . . ." Tsunade sneered leaning towards the older woman.

Clearing his throat Homura stepped in, hoping to stop the brewing fight. "You have to understand Lady Tsunade, your decision has allowed Konoha's greatest weapon to fall into a potential enemy's hands. This incident could have serious ramification for Konoha and the entire shinobi world. We simply wish to know what if anything you have planned to insure Konoha's safety should Sasuke Uchiha appear at the gates and have the use of the demon's power?"

"First of all there was no way anyone could have guessed Sasuke would abduct Naruto and second Naruto would never willingly do anything to endanger Konoha."

"Can you one hundred percent swear Uzumaki is actually being held against his will and hasn't perhaps followed his friend and deserted the village?"

Tsunade growled, they were disregarding what she was trying to say. "What the hell is that suppose to mean?"

"Calm yourself Tsunade." Homura objurgated. "Even you have to admit we don't know what exactly has happened between those two, it's no secret that Naruto Uzumaki has been trying for years to bring Sasuke Uchiha home. We don't know exactly what Sasuke Uchiha is capable of, he did kill Orochimaru and he does posses a highly developed Sharingan. Is it really that much of a stretch to consider he might also be able to convince or somehow control Uzumaki?" Homura waited a moment for answer, when one wasn't immediate he continued. "Because no one knows exactly what is going on we are insisting that no teams be sent to search for Naruto. If he is under Sasuke Uchiha's control then it's best if as many of our ninjas as possible are kept in the village, just in case."

From her place over at the side Shizune brought her hand up to her mouth as she listened to Homura. She jerked back, not from what the older man was saying but from the aura her master was giving off.

Tsunade closed her eyes and bowed her head. "By the way, the ANBU team I sent to investigate reported that there was a strong odor of chemicals at the spot Naruto was last seen. A scroll used for long distant transportation was found at the scene, they attempted to trigger it, but it was no longer activate and there was no way to trace where Sasuke's group ended up. Everything the ANBU found backs up what was reported by Team Kakashi. I have already made arrangements to keep as many of our soldiers as possible in Konoha. I'll send out one group to find Jiraiya, he has the most experience dealing with a jinchuuriki. Just in case Uchiha shows up at the gates. Will that satisfy you both?"

Homura and Koharu exchanged glances silently conversing; the act spoke of their long history together as teammates, before nodding to Tsunade.

Pushing off the couch Tsunade stomped past Shizune towards the door, stopping only after she'd jerked the door open.

"Just for your information Naruto Uzumaki is completely loyal to Konoha, his dream is to become Hokage so he can protect those he cares for, and it was only through his efforts that I was able to see what it meant to become Hokage." She glanced back at them. "I can't tell you what Sasuke's intentions are or why he'd snatch Naruto, but I do know Naruto would never do anything that would harm Konoha." Suddenly smiling Tsunade added. "I told you both before, if need be I'll give my life to protect Konoha. I meant it then and still do today."

Shizune watched her mentor march out the door, giving the two older ninjas a quick bow and moved to follow.

Homura called after them, still seated on the couch beside his fellow council member. "Just remember what we said Tsunade. No unnecessary teams are to be sent out, Konoha comes first."

Out of the room Shizune hurried along until she was at her master's side.

Tsunade glanced over at her long time companion. "How much longer till the members of Team Kakashi will be out of the hospital?"

"They should be reporting anytime now Tsunade-sama, they were released today."

Nodding to show she had heard Tsunade bit her lip. "When they get here I want you to keep everyone away, no one is to hear what I say to them, understood?"

"Of course Tsunade-sama."

O0o.o0O

Officially declared fit for duty Kakashi, Sakura, and Sai walked towards Hokage Tower like warriors ready for battle.

Sakura, already wearing her gloves her head held high; the perfect example of a powerful kunoichi.

Instead of a fake smile or emotionless blank look Sai normally wore the young man actually held a glint of determination in his eyes.

Kakashi's attention was unwavering, he looked almost strange walking around without his nose in his book.

Marching shoulder to shoulder they entered into their Hokage's office, each one flowing with renewed vigor and doggedness to save their comrade.

Tapping her fingers on her desk Tsunade observed the trio lined up in front of her. 'Sheesh, they look like they could take on the entire ninja world by themselves and win.' Nodding to Shizune, the dark-haired young woman moved about sealing the windows and door.

Moving to sit on the edge of her desk Tsunade motioned for the three to keep there voices lowered and produced a small scroll. "I just received a message from Jiraiya today, it contains information on Naruto."

Turning to her companions Sakura quirked one eyebrow at the news. Her two male teammates shrugged in return. Whispering back Sakura asked. "Tsunade-sama I thought you said there were no leads?"

Cocking her head to the side Tsunade quietly explained. "Officially, there were and still are no leads. I don't have to explain what kind of danger Naruto would be in if Akatsuki got wind of what is going on."

Receiving an affirmative nod in reply Tsunade rubbed her temple. "The council also believes there is a chance that Sasuke could have plans to use the Kyuubi to attack Konoha."

When called for, Kakashi could be a very professional solider. "Is there any evidence to support the council's beliefs that can be shared with us?"

Tsunade shook her head at the silver-haired man. "There is no evidence at this time. Those old goats see danger and ruin for Konoha at every turn. Still there are some things even the Hokage has to bow to when the council insists. As many of our people as possible will need to stay in Konoha. It also means I cannot officially send any teams out to look for leads on Naruto's whereabouts."

Smiling rather slyly Tsunade explained. "On the other hand if Jiraiya, who is basically not under my control wants to quietly make a few inquires about his student what can I do to stop the old pervert?"

They all shared a grin at the slide of hand the two Sannins were pulling. They might have had their flaws but Tsunade and Jiraiya did know how to bend without breaking the rules very well.

"I contacted Jiraiya after Sasuke snatched Naruto. He's been discreetly putting out the word to his informants to keep an eye out for the group. Yesterday he sent word that he thought he might have a lead and would send more information today." She rustled the paper in her hands. "A little while ago I received this via one of his frogs."

Confused Sai asked. "Frogs?"

"Yeah, Jiraiya and Naruto can summon frogs like Kakashi-sensei can dogs. By using his summoning animal to deliver his scrolls to Tsunade-sama, Jiraiya-sama can insure no one else gets them." Sakura explained.

"Correct." Tsunade unsealed the scroll and began unrolling it. "The council will allow me to send you three out to find Jiraiya and ask him to return to Konoha to help out since he has the most experience dealing with Naruto in regards to Kyuubi, but secretively you'll be meeting up with him so you can try and recover Naruto."

Slowly blinking his uncovered eye Kakashi asked. "What if we do find he is under Sasuke's control?"

"Try to save him of course, but if he is going to be a danger to Konoha and you can't break through Sasuke's control . . . well, there might not be any choice but to kill one or both of them." Tsunade admitted. "But, I want everything possible to be done to save at least Naruto, understood?"

Once they agreed Tsunade skimmed through the scroll and smiled. "According to Jiraiya's information Naruto seems to be uninjured and traveling with Sasuke and his group."

"What?" Sakura asked interrupting the older woman once again. "Why hasn't Jiraiya-sama made a move to save him?"

Clearing her throat Tsunade glared at her student. "I'm getting to it."

Muttering an apology Sakura blushed.

"Jiraiya has been searching for clues and information. Unfortunately he seems to be a few days behind the group, by the time he finds information on them they have already moved on. The last sighting was in Nijikai Village, just inside Fang Country."

Looking to avoid her temper Kakashi raised his hand. "Isn't that a large gambling and hot spring town?"

"Yes, the village has some wonderful gambling halls. Though it's not the kind of place you'd think someone like Sasuke would go. Jiraiya's most recent information came from the lady who runs Nijikai's largest hot spring inn. She says a group matching their description stayed for two days, she believes she overheard they were heading towards Claw Country, that was . . . three days ago." Looking up at the team she smiled. "As long as Jiraiya stays on their trail when you three meet up with him, your group should be able to over take them."

It was nice to see hope in their eyes again. Quickly finding her place she continued. "It seems the owner specifically remembered Naruto when she saw his picture. When the group checked in Sasuke was practically carrying him and plopped him on a near by bench. A total of four rooms with private hot spring areas for two nights was paid for. The owner found it strange that there were five people but only four rooms and she thought Sasuke's actions towards Naruto were strange. The two stood out to her because they were arguing so much. She even questioned his companions about it. The one you reported as being Naruto's attacker at the time of his abduction assured her that there was nothing to worry about as the two were . . . lovers?" She questioned, glancing up at the team.

Rubbing the back of his head Kakashi was the first to speak. "Erm . . . I knew those two were close but, I hadn't realized . . .." Kakashi tapped his finger against his covered lips. "Maybe all that fighting when they were younger was really flirting?"

"Kakashi-sensei don't say things like that. Sure Naruto can be a little obsessive when it comes to Sasuke . . . ." She weakly chuckled and tapped her chest. "But so can I. Besides, Naruto asked me out on a date just before we went on that mission." Sakura informed them.

"That's true." Sai added. "I was there when he asked her."

"See . . . Sai was there." She gestured to the other. "So they can't be . . . ." Sakura looked away from her sensei, she could feel her face heating up from the idea her two teammates being involved, it was a little unsettling . . . and to tell the truth kind of hot too.

When they had last seen him, Sasuke had definitely grown into a fine specimen of a man. He certainly wasn't shy about showing what he had to offer, and just remembering the sight of his bare chest made her wish she could slide her hand down his body and feel those defined muscles. There was no doubt that Sasuke was still the most attractive male she had ever met. Not that Naruto was hard on the eyes she had seen him stripped down and knew what he was hiding under those baggy clothes.

The thought of her two very male teammates naked and embracing one another made her shake her head to dispel the picture that was trying to form in her mind, she completely blamed Konohamaru for her perverted thoughts. With that stupid perverted jutsu still in her mind it isn't hard to picture Naruto under Sasuke instead of Sai. Gasping she quickly covered her nose when the picture got a little clearer.

Watching Sakura, Sai wondered why she was so red. The information about their friend being in a relationship with Sasuke was an interesting twist. 'That could explain why Sasuke reacted so violently when I mentioned Naruto to him. Perhaps I made him jealous?'

Sai smiled slightly, it wasn't unusual for him to misunderstand other peoples reactions and emotions. He was just glad he'd figured it out on his own this time. All that reading was finally paying off it seemed. "Although . . . ." Sai said squinting his eyes in deep thought. "Maybe Naruto would prefer Sasuke as a lover instead of Sakura, especially if Sasuke was willing to buy him ramen unlike Sakura." Sai pointedly ignored how Sakura was starring at him. "Not long ago I read that the best lovers start out as friends . . . ouch." Grasping his head Sai sent his attacker a dark look of his own.

"That's enough." Tsunade said putting an end to their banter, she took a look at Shizune; who had stood by the door the entire time as lookout, thankfully Shizune gave her the all clear signal. Things could turn out bad if they were overheard. "First go to Naruto's apartment and allow your dogs to get his scent Kakashi, take something with you if you need to. Head to Nijikai, see if your dogs can find any leads." Reaching across her desk Tsunade handed them an envelope and a scroll. "Here's a copy of the drawings Sai made of Sasuke and his team along with the most recent picture we have of Naruto." Moving around to her desk she pulled one of the drawers open and produced a small frog. "This little guy will connect you to Jiraiya, if the old pervert has information he'll use this guy as a beckon to send another summons with information so keep him safe."

Nodding Sakura put her hand out, allowing the amphibian to hop into her hand.

Tsunade gave Shizune a signal, her assistant quickly went to work opening the office back up. "Be careful, head out as quickly as you can. Give Jiraiya that scroll and return with him to Konoha, understood?"

"Right." The group replied jerking to attention then rushing out.

O0o.o0O

After gathering their gear they met at Naruto's apartment to allow Kakashi's dogs to get the boy's scent. To their surprise the place wasn't a total pigsty.

"I'm shocked, last time I was here it was horrible." Sakura said looking the place over.

"Well he has grown up some." Kakashi replied calling for his summons, the pack of dogs appear in a puff of smoke. "Alright guys, were on our way to look for Naruto. Take a good sniff around to get his scent, I'll be counting on you to find him."

Nodding the dogs began sniffing around Naruto's stuff, heading quickly to his bedroom where his smell was most concentrated. Following his dogs Kakashi quickly returned with a pair of the boy's boxers.

Bringing her knuckle to her lips Sakura hated to ask but just had to. "Kakashi-sensei why are you taking his underwear?"

Smiling the older man happily replied. "Why to help my dogs keep his scent of course."

"Are you sure that's the best thing to take?" Sai asked checking out the orange swirl pattern covering the butt area of the boxers.

Nodding Kakashi assured them. "Oh yes, trust me . . . " Moving the item away from his body he explained. "I can smell them from here. Want a whiff?" Shoving them quickly at his two teammates the Jounin got a good laugh at least when Sakura screeched and both pulled away. Wrapping the undergarments in a hand towel Kakashi stowed the item away in his backpack. "All right, let's move out."

Fun and games were done, determination burned in their eyes as they left Konoha this time they would not fail, they would save their lost teammate no matter what.

O0o.o0O

Naruto sighed as Sasuke ran his fingers over his body. It was really amazing how addicted he'd become to Sasuke's touch. Actually everything Sasuke did felt good and he wondered why he'd ever been against these things.

Gasping Naruto moaned and squirmed a little while Sasuke ran his tongue over this really sensitive spot on his side.

"You like that, don't you?" Sasuke mumbled against his skin, sucking that spot lightly before moving on.

When they were alone Sasuke always focused on him. Naruto had thought Sasuke admitting that he really wanted to fight against him in that Chuunin exam when they were kids had been the highlight of his life when it came to having Sasuke's attention, but having him caressing every part of his body and being under Sasuke's heavy gaze when they were like this blew that previous moment away.

The welcoming slide of Sasuke entering him, wet with oil and so warm, was almost overwhelming. His blood was pumping through his body, matching the pulsing feel of Sasuke's heartbeat he could embarrassingly enough feel inside his body through Sasuke's penis.

Truth be told a part of him felt he could stay like this with Sasuke for the rest of his life and be terribly happy. Another part of him though was very aware that any moment what they had could be destroyed, he feared that thing would probably be Itachi. He had Sasuke's word he'd return with him but what if he didn't keep his word? And what would happen to them when they got back to Konoha?

Those disturbing thoughts fled quickly, closing his eyes in completely bliss, Naruto shivered at the feel of Sasuke's hardened flesh slowly sheathing itself inside him, then just as slowly pulling back only to repeat the acts again.

Sasuke was really enthusiastic tonight, lifting his lower half to get the perfect angle so his member constantly stroked against that spot inside him that always sent him over so quickly; hell his dick didn't even have to be touched to get him over when Sasuke did him like this.

His approaching orgasm had him gasping for air, like he was fighting a really intense battle and as he rode through his orgasm, dragging Sasuke along with him, Naruto wasn't coherent enough to realize he was kind of blacking out.

Blinking his eyes to get his surroundings to focus Naruto was shocked to find himself laying on the floor before the Kyuubi's cage. He hadn't felt his own chakra or the demon's since Sasuke had abducted him and being here could only mean that damn stuff they injected him with was finally starting to wear off.

To his embarrassment he was naked, touching the seal on his stomach he jerked his hand when it landed in something wet. Realizing just what that wet substance on his stomach was he grimaced shaking his hand in hopes of getting it off. "Eww . . . ." Sitting up Naruto looked down at his stomach and sneered, his release was still slightly warm. Shaking his head Naruto pushed himself off the floor. "Might as well see what the fur ball is up to." Cautiously he moved towards the cell door.

Suddenly he stopped and scrunched up his nose. "You have got to be kidding me." Looking down at his legs he noticed a small wet trickle running down his inner thigh. "Yuck, why does this place have to be so damn real?" Heaving a large sigh he shook his head. "This is just too much." Without thinking he covered his face with his hand, remembering too late just what was on that hand. Jerking it away from his face he used his other arm to wipe his face against. "That is just great, now I got jizz on my face."

From deep inside the cage Kyuubi's two dull red eyes appeared. "You insolent brat, what have you done now?"

The voice didn't hold it usual commanding quality. Approaching carefully Naruto squinted trying to get a better look at the creature. "What are you talking about? I haven't done anything." He knew something wasn't right when no teeth snapped at him or claws slammed against the bars.

"My chakra was pulled to you, then the darkness came. I thought for sure you had gotten your fool self killed." A breathless chuckle came from the creature. "I'm happily surprised to see we still live."

"What do you mean got myself killed? I'm Naruto Uzumaki, future Hokage, no way would I let myself get killed."

"If it wasn't for me you'd have died many times over human brat."

"Whatever. Look, I got injected with this stuff that shut down both of our chakras, but since we are talking I guess it's starting to wear off." He explained wrapping his hands around the bars and pressing his face against them still trying to get a look inside the darkness.

The sound of sniffing came from the darkness and Naruto could feel the air move around him as the demon scented the air. "What's that smell?"

Sniffing the air Naruto shook his head. "I don't smell anything." Suddenly a large nose pushed out towards him and sniffed again before jerking away.

"You reek."

"Hey now . . . ."

The maw of the beast appeared out of the darkness again and this time it wore a tired but sly grin. "You have that one Uchiha's scent on you; the one with the eyes like Madara's."

"Madara's? Oh, you said that about Sasuke's eyes that time he was able to see you. You mean I smell like Sasuke?"

"Yes . . . Sasuke." Naruto could hear the humor in the fox's voice. "I didn't realize you were at the age to rut. Thank goodness you're playing the bitch for the Uchiha that way you won't be polluting this world with any of your stupid genes."

"What did you say I was you worthless pile of fur?" Naruto demanded, pushing his fist through the bars to shake it at the creature. "I dare you to come here and say that to my face." Hot air from the beast's sigh blew his hair.

"If I wasn't still weak from the poison I'd bite you in two."

Naruto huffed, he was use to such threats from him.

"This poison is worse than that infernal seal. It has taken me this long just to bring you here."

Turning to slide his back down the bars of the cage Naruto plopped himself onto the floor. "I wondered what you had been doing. Even if I don't have any chakra yours has always been there. It was like someone put a wall up or something. So how much longer till you take care of this?"

"Oh . . . now you are relying upon me? What happened to not wanting my help or power any more?" The spirit asked, a wide grin spreading across it's face.

Huffing Naruto pulled his legs up and rested his folded arms on top of his knees. "Look this stuff was made to block your power, if it can block you what makes you think I'm going to be able to do anything about it? Just stop being an ass and do your part."

"And while I do . . . my part, what will you be doing? Continuing to bend over so the Uchiha brat can sate his lust with your body?"

Jerking around to face the ancient being Naruto yelled. "Mind your own business. You want my help? Fine, just tell me what to do."

"You could remove that seal on the cage and let me devour your soul."

Shaking his head at the beast Naruto sighed. "Yeah, yeah . . . devour my soul." Naruto rolled his eyes, like he'd never heard that one before. "How about you suggest something that has more of a chance of me doing."

If possible the creature's grin grew. "Actually your body has been releasing neuro-chemicals that has been helping to destroy that serum. I didn't have any idea until now of course what you were doing to release them. At the rate they have been pumping in I have to admit you have been busy."

Scratching his head Naruto groaned. "I know I'm going to regret asking, but what is my body doing?"

"Just keep letting him take you up the ass stupid." The old fox growled, shifting within his confines and wishing his host had been gifted with a few more brain cells.

"If that's all it takes Sasuke should have this stuff burned away very soon." The blond replied, sounding a bit put out.

Catching the boy's tone Kyuubi pushed his face closer to the cage, exposing his dull eyes. "Hmm, something wrong?"

Pushing away from the bars Naruto walked away shaking his head at the beast. "Forget it fur ball. I know better than to look for sympathy or understanding from you." He replied fading out of sight.

"You could just as easily take him instead, as long as the chemicals are released it doesn't matter." The old demon yelled out to his host, it wasn't that he was out to help the annoying mortal but the sooner that stuff was gone the sooner he'd feel some relief and anything that benefited him was worth giving the idiot something in return.

O0o.o0O

It had been several days since they left the hot spring inn, they had been following a new lead Suigetsu had gotten for them, but it turn out to be a dead end. Needless to say Sasuke had been rather moody.

'Not that moody is any thing new for that jerk.' Naruto thought finishing the set up of their tent. With some of his chakra starting to break through the drugs he had more stamina to pull his own weight.

Moving towards Suigetsu's tent, Naruto began to hammer on the opposite side of where the silver-haired boy was working.

"Thanks blondie, I swear if you were single I'd marry you."

"Who says I'm not?" He huffed pounding the tent peg with more force than needed.

Setting his hammer to the side the Mist swordsman cocked his head. "I think our generous leader would say different."

"Oh he's real generous alright."

Crawling over Suigetsu took a seat beside Naruto, putting one hand beside his mouth the silver-haired boy leaned over and whispered. "Trouble in paradise is it?''

Sighing Naruto whispered back. "More like trouble in cum, cum paradise."

They held one another's serious gaze before busting out in rather loud laughter. Settling down they flopped back against the ground next to one another.

'It's kind of nice to have the kid around.' Suigetsu thought, glancing at Sasuke's lover. 'He's usually able to keep Sasuke happy, well as happy as Sasuke gets and I've got someone to joke with.'

"Sorry, sorry . . . I just couldn't resist." Naruto explained, catching his breath.

"Naw, I'm always up for a good laugh." Suigetsu replied waving off the explanation, turning to face the other boy he asked. "So what's really wrong?"

Naruto rolled onto his side to face the Hebi team member. "I just started worrying lately, I really don't know where I stand with Sasuke."

"Where you stand?" Lifting one of his eyebrows, Suigetsu cast his eyes around the campsite before returning them to Naruto. "From what I've noticed you don't do a lot of standing blondie."

Giving the swordsman a dirty look Naruto rolled onto his back, looking up into the darkening sky. "Just forget I said anything. I'm just being stupid." Looking back when the other started poking him in the shoulder Naruto waited till Suigetsu spoke.

"Look, if something is bothering you Sasuke would probably listen. You are the one person he seems to halfway listen to. Of course threating him might help get him to talk, but you probably already knew that."

Smiling Naruto nodded in agreement. "Yeah, I guess I just needed someone to remind me. Thanks."

Laying back against the ground Suigetsu folded his hands behind his head. "No problem, it's the least I could do for the person who is going to finish setting my tent up for me."

"No way, why should I put your tent up?"

Smiling back to the blond the Suigetsu replied. "That's my fee for therapy work."

Laughing Naruto grabbed up the hammer. "Right, well this is therapeutic for my need to bash in your head anyway." He explained hitting the stake harder than necessary.

From behind a tree at the perimeter of the camp Sasuke watched the two laugh. Reaching up he covered the spot where his curse mark was, the sight of Naruto making friends with Suigetsu made it throb. Shaking his head he pushed those thoughts of anger and jealousy out of his mind. Turning his back on them he moved away from the camp.

It was unnerving how the more time he spent with Naruto along with their sexual interactions made him feel things he really wasn't comfortable with. He had noticed he'd been developing a strange possessive trait towards him. Plus he'd actually started to feel regretful about the way he'd blackmailed Naruto into their new bond, but he was pretty sure Naruto didn't have any issues with the sex

He knew the only thing he needed to worry about concerning Naruto was keeping him safe when they found Itachi and if the other members of Hebi would be strong enough to protect him?

Sometimes when they were alone Sasuke had actually caught himself considering not heading out the next day, even entertaining the daydream of not searching for Itachi. The time they were spending together was undoubtedly the happiest days he'd had since leaving Konoha. Those two days at the inn back in Nijikai had been the most testing to his resolve.

That was one of the reasons that had lead him to leave Konoha in the first place, Naruto and the others drew him away from his duty to his clan, it was his responsibility to avenge them. When he realized how easily he was falling under Naruto's charms again it made him angry.

Recently when Suigetsu had been able to find a new tip about Itachi, Sasuke had also began to worry about what would happen to Naruto after this whole mess was over. Seeing Naruto so friendly with Suigetsu made a whole array of possible futures present themselves to him. Grinding his teeth, the thought of who in Konoha might be interested in Naruto and who Naruto might consider entering into a relationship with, it left a very bad taste in his mouth.

Evening couldn't come fast enough for Sasuke, he was determined to find out what Naruto had been talking about with Suigetsu. He had already cornered the silver-haired boy and reminded him that Naruto was his. Following Naruto into their tent Sasuke crossed his arms once he sat down in front of the other boy. "What were you and Suigetsu talking about earlier? You seem to have gotten really chummy with him." No one could say he was one to beat around the bush.

Shaking his head Naruto worked on rolling out his sleeping bag. "It's nothing you'd be interested in or probably understand." Naruto replied pulling off his sandals.

Growling Sasuke hand shot out and grabbed the other in a head lock. "Tell me."

Naruto tried to pry Sasuke's arm off his head. "Let go of me you asshole." Naruto commanded trying to pry Sasuke's arm off his head.

Sasuke chuckled at Naruto's feeble attempt, he'd begun to show signs that his chakra was returning but not enough to fight with him. "Come on Naruto I'm stronger than you."

"Yeah well, that's only because my chakra is still messed up, which is your fault." Struggling Naruto whined. "This isn't fair you bastard."

Sasuke leaned down to lick his lover's ear. "Fair doesn't matter if you're a ninja. You take the advantage wherever you can get it."

Naruto stilled in his arms. "Is that how it is between us too?"

Sensing a change in how Naruto was acting Sasuke released him. "Between us? Is that what you were talking about with Suigetsu?" Shrugging Naruto tried to turn away only to be pulled back. "Tell me clearly what's going on."

"What are we?"

Scowling Sasuke shook his head. "What do you mean?"

Sighing Naruto leaned back, looking away from the other boy. "What do you see me as Sasuke? Am I here to warm your bed until someone else comes along, or am I just bait? Do you even think of me as a friend at all?" Blushing he asked. "Do you feel anything when we do things together?"

Turning away Sasuke busied himself with a pack. "Has Juugo mentioned Kimimaro to you?"

Huffing at the change of topic Naruto shook his head. "Juugo doesn't really talk to anyone . . . unless you're a bird."

"Kimimaro was once kept in the same facility as Juugo, he was the one who kept Juugo in line. He didn't have to really do anything to help him, just being with him kept Juugo's madness quiet." Turning Sasuke looked over his shoulder at the other boy. "Since Kimimaro gave his life to recover me for Orochimaru that's what I do for Juugo now. "

"Is he that one boney guy?"

"Boney guy?" Nodding his head Naruto pointed at his forehead. "Yeah, he had two red dots right here and white hair."

Sasuke nodded. "Yes, that was him." Sasuke took a few moment of silence to collect his thoughts. "I've noticed since you started traveling with us I've been able to start examining emotions that I thought were shut off."

Butting in his friend asked. "Oh, so do I do the same for you and your curse?"

Moving quickly Sasuke kissed him, breaking the kiss he leaned his forehead against the other's. "No, I already had my curse under control. Your presence does make me consider my emotions, before I just ignored them. I just meant that like Juugo and Kimimaro you have given me a peace I really didn't have before and I've already thought about those things you were asking about, I won't let anything happen to you okay?"

Sighing Naruto asked again. "But what are we? What is our bond?"

Pulling Naruto close Sasuke brushed his lips against Naruto's before releasing him. "Don't expect me to keep saying this to you." He warned gazing into Naruto's blue eyes. "I care about you and what we have means something to me. You're not just bait or here to warm my bed. The bond we have can't be filled by anyone else." Spearing his hands into Naruto's hair Sasuke pulled him close for another kiss.

"Sasuke . . . ." Naruto breathed into the open mouthed kiss Sasuke was giving him.

Sasuke hoped they were done talking, he felt it easier to express his emotions through his touch. Slipping his tongue into Naruto's mouth he gently stroked his tongue against Naruto's.

Pulling back Naruto had to smile when Sasuke groaned at the loss of his lips. "What's up with you? Am I just that irresistible that you need to have sex with me all the time or what?"

Sasuke caressed his cheek. "We're still ninjas, who knows what's going to happen to us. Is it so bad that I don't want to waste any of the time we're given?"

Moving in to kiss him again Sasuke growled when Naruto moved away. "Naruto."

Naruto frowned. "You just want to make sure you get one more fuck in?"

"I didn't say that."

"Answer the question asshole."

"No . . . that's not it." Sasuke replied, reaching for Naruto only to have him jerk away again.

"So . . . then am I just that irresistible?"

Sighing in defeat Sasuke let his head drop, bouncing his chin against his chest. "Is it that important to your ego and self esteem that I answer?"

Leaning back Naruto reached up to rub his chin. "Let me think about that . . . hmmm." He closed his eyes for a moment before a wide grin stretched across his face. Opening his eyes Naruto nodded. "Yep, it sure is."

Chuckling softly Sasuke shook his head. "Alright then . . . yes, you are irresistible."

Suddenly Naruto reached out and began pushing Sasuke's shirt off of him. "I don't want to waste the time we've got either." He explained when he got a questioning look, leaning in he licked Sasuke's nipple.

Moaning in pleasure Sasuke allowed Naruto do what he wanted to him. At times Naruto had participated some during their love making, but now he was actively seeking him out and it was an even bigger turn on. It seemed relaying just those few sentiments he was comfortable admitting to Naruto had been the switch to turn the blond on. 'If I could of I would have told him sooner.' Sasuke thought, it was no secret that he'd been emotionally stunted since his clan's murder and his time with Orochimaru didn't help. 'Hell it's taken me this long just to understand what I feel for this idiot.'

Between kisses and licks they pulled one another's clothes off until they were down to their skin. Gently Sasuke ran his fingers over Naruto's back, delighted in the goose bumps and shivers he was producing from his touch, all the while Naruto was licking and sucking every inch of skin down to his groin.

Naruto bumped into his lover's obvious arousal wrapping his hand around it, tentatively running his tongue over the tip taking off the clear fluid that had gathered there. Hissing in pleasure Sasuke adjusted his position. Getting his nerve Naruto carefully slid Sasuke's member into his mouth giving a small suck to its head as he pulled back. Encouraged by the sound's Sasuke was making Naruto took a little more into his mouth.

Thrilled at Naruto's daring move Sasuke looked over the position he was in; leaned over his lap on his knees Naruto's firm tan bottom was sticking up in the air while he concentrated on the stiff appendage he was holding and slipping into his mouth. Smirking Sasuke took his fingers into his own mouth wetting them before sliding them down to the opening he knew awaited between those tan globes. His teasing strokes across his lover's velvety skin seemed well received judging by the tensing grip on his penis and Naruto's slight bucking motion. Re-wetting his finger again this time Sasuke slipped a finger into him.

Jerking at the sensation of Sasuke's finger entering him, Naruto gagged. "Can't you keep your fingers out of my ass for once?" He asked pulling his mouth away from his friend's manhood.

Smiling Sasuke pumped his finger farther into Naruto's body making the blond's erection twitch. "Can't you take anymore into your mouth?"

"Shut up I'm doing the best I can here."

"I've seen you eat, I don't believe your gag reflex is that delicate." Sasuke teased trying to introduce another finger.

Completely releasing Sasuke's penis Naruto pulled away and moved to straddle his lap. "Does your dick look anything like ramen to you? No, it doesn't. Now when it turns into thin little noodles I'll show you how well I can slurp it down till then shut up or I'll never do that again."

Nodding Sasuke watched Naruto press their erections together.

"I've been wanting to do this." Naruto admitted softly chuckling while wrapping one hand around their arousals.

Getting the idea Sasuke wrapped his own hand around as well. "Why didn't you say so sooner, we could have done it before?"

Blushing Naruto bit his lip. "To tell you the truth, before it was always you doing what you wanted and me submitting to it. This just seems like a mutual thing. You know?"

Pulling the whiskered marked young man towards him Sasuke kissed him; moving his lips over his lovers. "And now you feel like we can do this together then?"

Nodding Naruto smiled. "Yup, not just things like this either."

Naruto wasn't about to declare undying love to Sasuke but things just seemed a little clearer than they had been before. Doing this together for some reason felt more intimate than all the sex they'd had before.

Sealing their mouths together they bucked against one another causing both to feel a tingle run up their spines.

Reaching over Sasuke snagged the oil they always used, breaking their kiss he leaned back so he could hold the bottle above their hard flesh held between their hands, allowing it to drizzle over them. The sensation of the slightly cool oil trickling over their heated erections made them buck into one another again.

Once the bottle was set aside they began moving their hands in unison over their hardness completely slicking themselves up. Now that they were slick with oil both used their hips to press their lengths together, stroking in unison.

Biting his lip Sasuke fought to keep his eyes open, watching their flesh being rubbed between their interwoven hands. His Sharingan flared to life as he looked up to see Naruto, his head leaned back and a sheen of sweat forming across his forehead.

This time was special, Naruto wanted him as much as he wanted Naruto. Till his death he'd remember this moment.

"Sa . . . Sasuke."

His stammered name was the only warning he got before Naruto released and just seeing him show such passion was enough to pull his own from him. Grunting Sasuke watched through hooded eyes as his seed mixed with Naruto's, dribbling down their slowly softening flesh. 'Gods, he was right. This was erotic.' He thought watching his lover lift his head to smile at him.

'Man, that was better than I'd hoped for.' Naruto thought, lifting his head to smile at Sasuke. The soft looks they were exchanging lasted only a second.

Feeling something inside him stir Naruto gasped looking down at his now visible seal. Following his lover's gaze Sasuke gasped as well, for the first time since Karin injected Naruto his seal was visible. A flash of angry red chakra rolled off Naruto pushing the dark ninja away, there was no questions that the beast inside Naruto was once again free of the chakra controlling serum.

Naruto nervously chuckled. "Guess old grumpy wanted you to know he didn't appreciate that stuff you gave us."

Leaning towards him Sasuke replied. "Well he'll be happy to know the only thing I'm going to inject into you from now on his my semen."

Before he could get his hands on him though the tent flap was jerked back and Karin pushed her head through. "Sasuke-kun . . . ."

The silence stretched as they observed one another, both males froze when she interrupted them. Adjusting her glasses Karin didn't act like two completely naked men was anything unusual and reported. "After the flash from Naruto's chakra I noticed two other very strong chakras flash off in the distance. They are now heading towards us."

Coming to his senses Sasuke turned towards her, seemingly unworried about his or Naruto's state of undress. "That flash from Naruto was strong enough others would have felt it across a distance?"

Nodding Karin replied. "It was quite spectacular really. There is a very good chance one of the chakras might be Itachi's."

Making a motion for her to leave Sasuke reached for his clothes.

Pulling her head out Karin walked away from Sasuke and Naruto's tent before beginning to pump her fists. "Yes." She mumbled to herself before straightening up and fixing her glasses again.

From their place near the fire Suigetsu leaned over to Juugo. "Are you positive that Orochimaru didn't give her a curse too? I swear she has two personalities in there."

Juugo shook his head. "I tell you I don't feel my curse in her." He was starting to wonder about her mental stability though.

Bursting out of the tent Sasuke began giving order. "Let's break camp and get our weapons ready. Karin, we'll follow you to these other chakra signatures." His role as leader was ruined when a still dressing Naruto come out tripping on his twisted pants.

"Omph."

"I'm sorry."

From his prone position on the ground Sasuke turned his head and spit out a mouth full of leaves. Looking over his shoulder Sasuke glared at Naruto, who was still on his back.

"Don't look at me like that." Trying to untwist his pants Naruto rolled his eyes. "I said I was sorry, it's not my fault."

Shaking his head, Sasuke pushed himself off the ground making Naruto roll off him. "Moron." Watching Naruto now rolling around, his legs still stuck in his twisted pants, Sasuke felt his lips twitch. 'Leave it to Naruto to break a tense moment with stupidity.' He thought fondly, hoping this would not be his last moments with the idiot.

Tbc . . . .

O0o.o0O

Sandaime: term used to refer to the 3rd person to hold the title of Kage; refers to Sarutobi.

Hokage: The ninja leader of Konoha.

Kunoichi: Female ninja

Shinobi: ninja

Jinchuuriki: a human vessel housing a demon, term means power of human sacrifice.

Sannin: Title given to Tsunade, Jiraiya, and Orochimaru.

ANBU: meaning 'dark side', is short for ANsatsu senjutsu tokushu BUtai (literally Assassination Tactics Special Military Force).

Nijikai: Japanese word meaning first after-party party. Just a Japanese word I pick to name this village, not actually found in the anime or manga.

Jounin: Level after Chuunin, elite ninja's, can take on Genin teams, do A and S rank missions. Perform other positions in village.

Akatsuki: organization of missing-nin's; name means dawn.

Sharingan: copy wheel eye (doujutsu-bloodline limit of Uchiha clan) capability to read and defeat all types of nin,tai, and genjutsu can copy almost any technique seen except for hijutsu.