The White Flash

From One Mission to Another

The remainder of the escort mission passed with no issues. They reached Hoshigakure, remained for a few days, and escorted Kiyoshi and the retainers back to the Land of Fire after the details of the treaty were finished. "I'm so excited to take a bath," Ino exclaimed, her arms stretching above her head.

            They neared Konohagakure, the gate coming into sight. "A bath does sound good," Sakura agreed. "How about the hot springs?"

            "Oo, that sounds awesome! Ayumi, Hinata, are you two in?"

            "I'll come," Hinata voiced.

            With a smile, Ayumi raised a hand, "I've got to make a report on the mission and head home." Hopefully, Papa's home. She still needed to talk to him about what she found out. Perhaps, she should bring it up with Tsunade when she delivered her report. The more minds working together, the better. Separating from the girls, Ayumi escorted Kiyoshi the rest of the way to the Hokage Tower. Upon entering, Kiyoshi was taken to a reserved room with the elders, while Ayumi went to the report office. Writing a summary of their mission, the incidents they ran into, and the outcomes. After filing it with the present Chunin, Ayumi went to make way for home. However, rushed footsteps caught her attention.

            "Ayumi-chan!" Shizune greeted her with a warm smile, "welcome back!"

            "Thank you, Shizune-san."

            With a slight bow, she swept her hand towards the hall. Falling into step with her, Ayumi looked up to her. "Did your mission go by without incident?"

            "Without incident? No." She gave a sigh, rubbing the back of her head. "We ran into quite a few scrimmages from bandits and the rumors regarding the Hoshigakure shinobi were true. Though, Makoto-sama didn't get hurt, so I consider that much a success."

            "Of course, it is, you completed the mission that was asked of you." A nervous laugh shook her shoulders, "I'm aware that you only just returned from a mission, but Tsunade-sama has called you with details for another." As she said that, she pushed open the doors to the Hokage's office. Strolling inside, her gaze moved across those already present. The entirety of Team 13. Neji, Tenten, and Lee stood in front of Tsunade's desk while Gai stood off in the back.

            "Ayumi, my Angel!" A python grip latched onto her shoulders, lifting her from her feet, "welcome home!"

            Her face was smashed into his vest, her airway stolen. Fighting to set her chin on his chest, she flailed her arms, "Gai-ossan, I can't breathe!"

            With loud laughter, he released her, "sorry, I just cannot help myself!"

            Lips curving in a smile, she went to Neji and Lee, slapping their shoulders. "You two are up and walking around! Good!"

            "Indeed, I have begun training days ago," Lee exclaimed, punching the air in front of him. "I am ready to take on whatever this mission has to offer!"

            "Ayumi will be in charge of this mission," Tsunade said, effectively bringing their attention back to the matter at hand. Fingers knitting together, Tsunade looked to her. "Naruto saved three men yesterday. It seems they came all the way from the Katabami Gold Mine to request a mission. Katabami Gold Mine is one of the Land of Rivers' greatest mines, but about half a year ago, hooligans calling themselves the Kurosuki family appeared on the pretext of guarding it, and took control of the village. They're killing villagers for no particular reason."

            "How vile!" Lee exclaimed.

            "Your mission is this: Once those three have regained their strength, escort them to Katabami Gold Mine and eliminate the Kurosuki family. It's a simple mission." Her hand swept through the air, "well anyway, it must be a group of punks who're after money."