At the gates of Konoha stood a team brimming with energy-Team Three, led by Might Guy: Neji Hyuga, Rock Lee, and Tenten.
Guy flashed his trademark gleaming teeth and gave a thumbs-up, shouting with gusto, "Yo! How could a hot-blooded mission to save our allies and crush evil leave out Konoha's Blue Beast of the Hidden Leaf and his adorable students? This time, I'll rescue the Kazekage before Kakashi does!"
Neji said calmly, "I'll do everything I can with my Byakugan to see through any mist or traps."
Rock Lee clenched his fists, his blood burning with excitement. "Guy-sensei! This is a mission ablaze with youth! I'll prove the value of hard work with my Taijutsu!"
Tenten nodded seriously as well, checking her enormous scroll. "Ninja tools ready. I can provide support at any time."
The sight of this elite team eased Tsunade's worries a little. She reiterated, "Your mission is to support Team Kakashi, rescue the Kazekage, and investigate the threat. Move out!"
They answered in unison, then became swift blurs as they raced toward the border of the Land of Wind, their spirits soaring.
In Shikkotsu Forest, Ling breathed a slight sigh of relief when he learned that Team Guy had joined the operation. Guy-sensei's Taijutsu and Eight Gates offered formidable frontline combat power, while Neji's Byakugan provided unparalleled reconnaissance. Rock Lee and Tenten could also work wonders under the right circumstances. This undoubtedly improved their chances of a successful rescue considerably.
[The lineup is impressive enough, but the target is just as dangerous.] Tobirama's voice remained calm. [The key is whether they can intercept them outside the Akatsuki hideout. If they're drawn into a battlefield the enemy has prepared, there will be too many variables.]
Ling fell silent and once again immersed himself in his recovery.