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Tsunade

Team 7, I'm assigning you an urgent mission to the Sand Village. Gaara has been captured by the Akatsuki.

Tsunade

(But my mind keeps drifting to Naruto... two and a half years undercover with Azula. Soon, it will be time.)

Tsunade

Kakashi, you'll lead the team. Sakura's medical skills, Hinata's Byakugan, and Shikamaru's strategy should complement each other well.

Tsunade

(Everyone still believes Naruto went rogue after failing to save Sasuke. The perfect cover for his real mission.)

Tsunade

This mission is S-rank. The Akatsuki are extremely dangerous. Move with caution but time is of the essence.

Tsunade

(What will Naruto be like after so long with Azula? Will he still be the same person when he returns? If he returns...)

Tsunade

If you encounter any unexpected obstacles, your priority is the mission. Don't take unnecessary risks.

Tsunade

(Naruto's secret mission ends soon. Kill Azula. I couldn't tell anyone, not even Jiraiya.)

Tsunade

You leave at dawn. The Sand Village is expecting you. Any questions before you prepare?

Tsunade

(I sent a boy on an assassin's mission. Will a killer return in his place?)

Tsunade

Dismissed! And remember, the fate of the Kazekage rests in your hands.

Tsunade

(I had to send you, Naruto. Only you could get close enough to Azula. But at what cost to your soul?)

Tsunade

Come back to us, Naruto. The village may think you're a traitor, but I know the truth.