Not long afterward, outside the gates of Konoha.
Kakashi Hatake, Sakura, Hinata Hyuga, Kiba Inuzuka, and Shino Aburame gathered there.
Kakashi Hatake explained the mission to the other four: intercept members of the Akatsuki and rescue Gaara.
The moment Sakura heard that their enemies were members of the Akatsuki, her face filled with worry.
She had heard of the Akatsuki's reputation over the years. Supposedly, even their weakest full members had the strength of an Elite Jonin. What was more, their opponents had brazenly attacked Sunagakure and taken Gaara away.
Sakura could not help asking worriedly:
"Are we the only ones going? Aren't we a little short on strength?"
At her words, Kakashi Hatake sighed inwardly. Sakura was still somewhat timid. She needed to work on that.
Kakashi Hatake said:
"Three teams are taking part in this mission. We're the farthest away, so we're setting off first. Asuma's team and Guy Team will change course along the way and head for Sunagakure!"
Hearing that there would be three teams, Sakura immediately felt much more reassured. With so many people and such powerful teammates, she figured there would not be too much danger.
The five of them set off at once, racing toward Sunagakure.
Shortly after they left, a Konoha ninja suddenly pushed open the door to the Hokage Office and shouted:
"Something's wrong!"
Minato Namikaze's expression tightened at the words, and he asked:
"What happened?"
The ninja said:
"Young Master Naruto is missing! We've searched all of Konoha, but we couldn't find any sign of him!"
Minato Namikaze slapped the desk and shot to his feet.
"What? Is there any record of Naruto leaving through the Konoha Gate?"
The ninja replied:
"There's no record of Young Master Naruto leaving, and the protective barrier hasn't shown any abnormalities either."
Minato Namikaze