Marunomi looked over at Temari who, after being knocked down, was getting back on her feet.

You foolish girl, trying to take the Behemoth's Tongue from me," Marunomi said. "For that, you can experience its power, firsthand."

The Behemoth's Tongue hummed to life with energy, and Marunomi pointed it directly at the Sand ninja. She fired the beam and Temari, unable to react in time, was caught as it coiled around her. She let out a cry as, just like Tenten, she was converted into a ball of chakra. Marunomi pulled back on the beam, sending the orb flying towards her. On its way, the beam uncoiled around the orb, letting it fly free. The Temari orb landed right inside Marunomi's gaping mouth and she swallowed it whole. The lump traveled down her throat and rested inside her stomach, bulging it out even further.

"Mmm, delish," Marunomi said as she stroked and patted her expanded middle.

She turned her attention back to Ino who had just regained her senses after having her mind returned to her body. She was barely even aware of what had just happened and was clumsily stumbling on her feet.

"Aww, poor baby's having trouble walking," said Marunomi. "It's okay, kiddo, take all the time you need."

As her mind and vision cleared, and her sense of balance became more steady, Ino began to piece together what had happened.

"Where...Where's Temari?" she said. "You...You didn't..."

"Eat her?" Marunomi replied. "Why, of course I did. And she was mighty tasty. So how about it, sweetie? You up for a battle before I gulp you down too?"

Ino wasn't sure what to do. She now stood alone against this seemingly invincible ninja and she had no plan for attack. She could fight her and hope she could hold out long enough for Sakura and Hinata to arrive or she could attempt a retreat, but she wasn't sure if even that was possible.


*What does Ino decide?