Time That Passes By

Chapter 23 - aftermath?

Mai's POV

I look down at my village's scenery, with Rin laying down, sleeping on my lap. I sat in the Hokage Mountain just like how I always do.

The mission was a great success, Suna is now in good hands, with Gaara as their Kazekage who's back on duty. I'm glad that Gaara's safe as well.

"I knew you'll be here"

I turn around, smiling.

"Yeah..." I answered, looking down at  the village again.

Kakashi came and sat beside me.

"thinking something?" He ask.

"Hm, Kind of. After I told Tsuna and the kids what I heard from Sasori, they were too eager to go" I said.

"Yeah. We'll be going tomorrow morning" Kakashi said.

I sigh.

"You'll be accompanied by another jonin right?" I ask.

He nod.

"Dont worry, that person is a trusted friend of mine. No one's gonna hurt anyone" He said.

"Well, I'm not really worried about that. I trust most of the village's ninjas here. Its just that when it comes to Naruto and Sasuke, I'm worried since I wont be there" I said.
"Dont worry too much, I'll keep an eye on them, And Sakura and Tenzo's with me" He assure me.

I nod.

"I know, and I trust you to take care of the kids" I said.

"Mama...? Papa...?"

Rin sat up, rubbing her eyes.

I smile at her.

"Hey, had a nice nap?"

Kakashi lift her up and place her on his lap.

Rin yawned and hugged her father. She snuggle closely to him. I chuckle at her.

"She have been missing us since we came back from the mission. She wouldn't even let go of me" I said.

"Yeah,  but she's a strong girl, just like her mother" Kakashi said.

I smile.

"yeah..."

Third Person's POV

It has been about a week or so since Team Kakashi plus two more ninjas, Yamato and Sai went to a mission to infiltrate Orochimaru's hideout, and at the same time, to retrieve Sasuke and bring him back home.

Everyday, Mai sat on top of the Hokage Mountain waiting and at the same time, hoping for their safe return.

then one day, she finally sense them all back in town. but no extra people with them.

she went down and proceed to go to the Hokage's Office.

as soon as the team came in, she can clearly see disappointment in their eyes.

especially the young ones.

Mai smile sympathetically at them and walk to Sakura and Naruto, who's looking down sadly.

Mai then brought them to a hug.

"its okay... we'll try again next time, alright?" Mai said.

"We... We couldn't do anything at all..." Sakura said.

"There's always next time dear, we'll bring him back next time, okay?" Mai said.

"Sasuke's really strong..." Naruto said bitterly.