A few hours after Hashirama left, Sakura trudged into the living room, her fever had broken but she still had a slight cough, it was caused by over working her vocal cords, Tsume laughed at her, but Kiba pulled her down onto the couch to snuggle.
"How you feeling" Kiba murmured as she twisted her hand into his shirt, Sakura moved her head to look up at him a tired but happy smile spreading across her lips, when she didn't say anything for a moment Kiba bent his neck to press his forehead to hers.
"I'm alright, throat hurts like the dickens though" Sakura croaked out drawing another laugh from Tsume, and a soft chuckle from Kiba "My fever's gone though, I feel as if I'm missing something" she tilted her head to the side in confusion.
Tsume rolled her eyes "The first came here along with Ay and Lord Second to check on you" she supplied and Sakura relaxed "You can go into town so long as you take it easy" Tsume anticipated the pinkette's next question.
"Yeah, that means no training" Kiba added and Sakura pecked him quickly on the lips as she stood properly on her feet, it was only noon and her stomach was growling, the pinkette nodded to both Inuzuka's understanding the importance of resting and headed out.
In town the first one to spot Sakura was Tobirama, and he quickly turned on the bench to nudge his brother in the side, when Hashirama looked up a grin spread across his lips "OI SAKURA-CHAN" he called and Tobirama cringed.
Sakura turned her head and spied the one who had called out to her "Hello Lord First" she coughed out before rubbing her throat, Tobirama frowned and quick as a flash his hand was pressed to her forehead "Fever's gone" she stated softly.
Her chakra was low so that must be why she hadn't healed herself yet "Would you like my brother to heal that throat of yours" Tobirama offered and Hashirama shot a look of confusion his way, Sakura flashed them both a smile before slumping her shoulders.
"It's alright Sakura-chan, I don't mind it" Hashirama grinned again putting the young girl at ease as he called healing chakra into his hand and quickly healed her vocal cords to the best of his abilities which was a lot considering.
"Thank you Lord Second, Lord First" Sakura whispered quietly, then her stomach rumbled again "See you around" she waved heading for her second favorite restaurant in the entire village, it just so happened to be Kiba's favorite shop as well.
Tobirama and Hashirama silently followed the pinkette until they realized where she was going, they both chuckled as she entered the tea and dango shop and sat down at one of the tables that was situated by a window and ordered food.
Yagura was quick to join her "Oh hello Lord Yagura-san" Sakura smiled politely and accepted her order of curry and dango along with the customary green tea, magenta eyes watched as the pinkette broke apart her chopsticks and lifted a small bite to her lips, chewing then swallowing in one smooth move.
Her movements were precise and delicate never spilling and always correct, Yagura had one word to describe her, perfectionist, but he didn't dare call her that to her face, one never knew when something that might seem like a compliment to others, would be an insult to some.
"Heard you were sick Sakura-san" Yagura greeted casually leaning his elbows on the table as he peered around the shop curiously, Sakura paused mid bite and nodded her head slowly, he frowned, before he could question though.
"My fever broke and my cold is healed, I promised to take it easy" Sakura sulked slightly, before smiling, sometimes it was necessary to take a break and she knew that if she had tried to push herself today then she would possibly be in the hospital at this exact moment in time.
Yagura nodded, taking it easy was a good idea, he would have insisted she go home if she was still sick though, "Good, so long as you are" he narrowed his magenta eyes on the pinkette, Sakura sent him a little grin in response.
"Truly I am" Sakura nodded and reached for her cup of green tea, she had lifted it to her lips when it cracked and the hot liquid spilled onto her bare leg "AHHH" she gave a shout and leaped from her seat swiping some napkins and hurriedly wiping her skin, it was much to late.
Her skin had blistered and swelled, Hashirama rushed in and his eyes widened "Kami, Sakura-chan what happened" he hurriedly bent to heal her leg, Sakura tensed and back into a random person, eyes wide in fright.
Then it happened a strong chakra flickered into existence right outside the village, Yagura was instantly on edge, he knew that chakra, it was the one that had tried to kill him and failed Zabuza Momochi, he started forward but it was the pain filled gasp that had him pausing.
Sakura's eyes were filled with tears, her leg was throbbing, but none of that mattered "Zabuza" she whispered the name brokenly, she rubbed at her eyes and tossed some ryo down on the table, then she made her way out of the shop, to the gates.
Yagura was slowly filling with anger, and as quickly as he could he followed the pinkette down the streets, Tobirama and Hashirama hot on their heels "Who do you think this Zabuza fellow is" Hashirama whispered to the white haired man.
"Don't have a clue but I'm sure we'll find out here in a moment Anija" Tobirama rolled his soft red eyes as all four of them came to a stop at the village gates, that chakra was getting close and now it was easy to tell that their were two of them.
'Even Haku' Sakura shook lightly in anticipation, it was to bad Team Seven was out on a mission, this reunion was going to be spectacular, Yagura paused at her side hand clenched around the handle of his flowered staff and prepared to attack at a moments notice.
Ten minutes passed and the person she was waiting for came into view, looking the same he did all those months ago, Zabuza stopped, and Haku came to a halt by his side, Sakura glanced to her right and noticed what it was that made the two of them stop.
"Lord Yagura-san" Sakura whispered softly drawing his attention, he relaxed some and Zabuza started forward again until he was right in front them, unlike before there were no bandages covering his mouth and his sword was conspicuously absent from his back.
Zabuza looked down "Who are you" he questioned in confusion, Sakura's face twitched and she hung her head, had she really been that easy to forget back then, she took a deep breath and pasted a kind smile on her lips.
"Don't worry about that right now Zabuza-san, I'm sure you'd like to meet with my Hokage right" Sakura calmly asked, her excitement was building, the pain of the past mending itself, she had always felt awful about what had happened to this man and Haku.
"Little girl" Zabuza leaned forward and his former leader went rigid "You seem familiar, I would like to know who you are before anything happens" he continued staring into her emerald eyes hoping to make sense of that nostalgic feeling bubbling within his stomach.
Sakura cringed and leaned back a little bit "I'm the girl that was with Kakashi-sensei, though I guess you wouldn't really remember me, I was pretty pathetic back then and all I did was whine and cry like a stupid little kid" she quipped playing off her hurtful words with a little giggle.
Zabuza frowned and he ran through his regained memories until "Ah the Haruno girl, I'm surprised you've lasted this long in the ninja world" he patted her roughly on the head before turning to his former leader "Lord Mizukage" Zabuza dipped his head in acknowledgment.
"Where is Hatake and those teammates of yours" Zabuza questioned a moment later settling his eyes on the pinkette again, Yagura blinked his magenta eyes in confusion, those were not names he was familiar with at all.
The pinkette sighed "Zabuza-san I'm no longer on Kakashi-sensei's team, some things happened and well yeah" Sakura fiddled with a lock of her long pink hair "Anyway we should probably get you and Haku-san to Lady Tsunade" she turned so that no one would see her pain.
Zabuza eyed the girl who he thought had never been fit to be a ninja, this little reunion furthered those beliefs, but instead of saying anything he simply followed along behind her silently, his former leader trailing slowly and two others walking on either side of the pinkette.
"Sakura-chan" Hashirama pressed his hand down on the girls shoulder and she looked up at him with a smile "How do you know that fellow" he questioned softly not expecting much, Sakura's eyes dulled considerably Tobirama shot him a scowl before quickly and awkwardly pulling the pinkette into a side hug.
Sakura jolted in surprise and her heart skipped a beat before she relaxed "Oh um hehehe" she giggled awkwardly and once Tobirama released her she stood between the two former Hokage's again feeling a little bit better about everything.
Tsunade's honey brown eyes honed in on the pinkette before sighing in exasperation "What did you do now brat" she rolled her eyes as Sakura rolled her emerald eyes to look over her shoulder, the blonde looked in the same direction and she nearly had a heart attack.
Sakura winced as they all filed into Tsunade's office and Zabuza and Haku sat down in the two chair's in front of the desk "These two were revived by the same affects as the others" Sakura shuffled not sure how to explain it all this time.
Honey brown eyes took in the angry countenance of the Fourth Mizukage and the confused ones of her grand father and great uncle, "And Yagura what do you want done with them" Tsunade smirked watching Sakura closely as she squeezed her hands tightly into fists.
"I should have them executed" Yagura snapped his anger leaking out with the force of his words, by his side Sakura flinched "But if there is one person who can give me one good reason not to" he continued and the pinkette nearly clapped her hands.
Zabuza swung around hearing those words, was the fourth crazy there was no one that would vouch for him "I will Lord Yagura-san" Sakura spoke up surprising everyone in the room, Yagura creased his brows in confusion.
"Zabuza-san and Haku-san were the ones who helped us complete our mission and defeat Gatou, but if it hadn't been for Naruto then none of that would have been possible either" Sakura jabbered before sighing as she saw the expressions of confusion.
So she tried again "Okay so when I was still on Kakashi-sensei's team we got assigned to escort Tazuna, he's a master bridge builder but a man named Gatou wanted to prevent the bridge from being built" Sakura stopped to make sure everyone was paying attention.
"So he hired Zabuza-san and Haku-san and on our first day outside the village we got into a scuffle with him, it ended with us all thinking Zabuza-san was dead and that Haku-san was a hunter nin" she took a deep breath before continuing.
"A few days later we learned that Zabuza was still alive and that it had been a trick of the mind that led us to believe he was dead, pressure points in the neck" Sakura shrugged "Anyway we all met on the bridge and that started the second round" she sighed softly.
"It went on for a long time Sasuke and Naruto fighting Haku-san and Kakashi-sensei fighting Zabuza-san" Sakura clenched her jaw for a moment leaving herself out because technically she didn't do anything to contribute to the mission at all except get in the way of others.
"Finally I guess Kakashi-sensei was about to seriously hurt Zabuza-san and Haku-san got in the way, after that Gatou appeared with all of his thugs and Naruto talked like he usually does, after that Zabuza-san took down Gatou" Sakura rubbed the back of her neck.
Yagura blinked his eyes again, he couldn't believe it someone was actually defending Zabuza "Very well then I've seen and heard enough, you're free to do whatever you want but if you even think about stepping foot in Mist all deals are off" he growled at the taller man.
"I understand Lord Yagura" Zabuza bowed "And thank you for accepting me into you're village Lady Hokage" he turned his eyes on the blonde, who eyed him before sighing and nodding in acceptance "And thank you brat" Zabuza patted Sakura on the head.
Sakura's emerald eyes lit up "It was no trouble Zabuza-san, Haku-san, I know for certain that Naruto would love to see you both" she smiled easily before slapping her hand on her leg which turned out to be not such a great idea as her flesh burned from where her tea had spilled on her bare leg.
Tsunade cringed "Kami you little brat can't you go one day without something bad happening to you" she stood and jumped around her desk to heal Sakura, that was a nasty burn and if left alone it would get infected and Sakura would be in even more trouble.
Zabuza watched closely as Sakura clasped her hands behind her back and sighed "Not my fault" she grumbled before getting whacked over the back of the head by Tsunade "My apologies Milady" Sakura sulked becoming more like the teenager she was supposed to be.
Tobirama and Hashirama shared a smirk "You are perhaps one of the most complex females we've ever met" Tobirama shook his head as Sakura's cheeks turned pink in embarrassment "Anyway what do you say we go get something to eat" he offered.
Right on cue Sakura's stomach rumbled loudly in hunger reminding her that she hadn't gotten to eat much, since Zabuza and Haku had arrived in the village "I'll pay" she suggested before getting a brown brow raised at her in consternation "Or not" Sakura pouted scuffing her shoe on the floor.
Suddenly Hashirama remembered something "How come you wouldn't let me heal you in the tea and dango shop" he snapped his fingers and Sakura sent him a wide look, Tsunade stared at her young apprentice before realizing.
"I didn't mean to hurt you're feelings Lord First, it's just you startled me" Sakura pushed her fingers together as they all traipsed out of Tsunade's office, except for Zabuza and Haku, the blonde still had to find a place for them to stay until they found better accommodations of their own.
Yagura and Tobirama frowned in sync, all Hashirama had done was bent to heal her leg, his hand had grazed her skin lightly before she had jumped back 'That's it' Tobirama narrowed his eyes as anger flooded through him "Who" he focused his soft red eyes on the pinkette.
Hashirama and Yagura turned in his direction as they walked back to the tea and dango shop "What are you talking about Tobirama" Hashirama asked confusion in his onyx eyes, though eyeing the suddenly uncomfortable looking Sakura, whatever Tobirama was getting at had something to do with Sakura.
Yagura however remembered something Ay had told them 'Though she's mostly gotten over her fear, she still gets spooked if a man makes any sudden moves towards her' he lowered his eyes to the ground and clenched his jaw.
Sakura however knew exactly what Tobirama was hinting at "His name was Sakon, he tried to force himself on me and roughed me around a bit that I had bruises for weeks, even though Hana-san healed me" she stated tonelessly.
Tobirama squeezed his hands until they turned white as Hashirama stared at the pinkette in horror "I didn't mean to scare you Sakura-chan" he apologized but Sakura sent him a sweet smile letting the brunette know she didn't hold it against him.
"S'alright Lord First, you startled me for a moment that's all and it won't happen again, I know you wouldn't intentionally hurt me like that anyway" Sakura waved the words off as they stepped into the restaurant her boyfriend favored above all others.
All four of them squeezed into a booth, Sakura getting squished next to Tobirama causing everyone to chuckle, "Now I see why Darui-san calls you a miracle worker" Yagura teased and Sakura's cheeks turned red quicker than anyone had ever seen someone blush before.
A pout formed on her lips and Sakura groaned "I honestly don't know what he means, I just do my best to make people comfortable" she huffed as a waiter came to take their orders and she ordered the same as earlier only with a few extra additions, she was hungry after all.
But first "Here" Sakura passed over some ryo to pay for her portion of the meal "Since I got a little extra" she supplied when Tobirama stared at her in confusion, his red eyes filled with understanding and the white haired male nodded accepting the money from the pinkette.
Fifteen minutes later their food arrived and Sakura dug in with more manners than any Inuzuka they had ever encountered, 'It's because she's not really from the Inuzuka Clan' Hashirama had to remind himself lest he forget, just because her last name was Inuzuka know didn't mean she'd always been one.
"Oh there you are" Mei pranced into the restaurant, Gengetsu and the other Kage's and their escorts on her heels, "Been looking for you Sakura-chan, I wanted to know if you knew of a good place to relax preferably a hot spring" the auburn haired woman skipped over to the booth.
Sakura paused mid bite and set her sweet down "Of course Lady Mei, if you'd like after I finish we can go together" she offered and Mizukage nodded and sat down in a chair, this prompted everyone to do the same, all the males looking a little put out.
"Are you going to invite you're friends" Mei asked suddenly and Sakura nearly choked, "Sorry" she smiled sheepishly as Tobirama patted the pinkette on the back, Sakura gave her a watery smile before polishing off the rest of her food and then lifted her green tea to her lips carefully.
Unlike before this time the clay cup didn't break and Sakura sighed in relief before finding herself in a new predicament, Tobirama stared at her knowingly before sliding out of the booth allowing her to get out of her seat and stretch her cramped muscles.
"It's okay Lady Mei and probably not, everyone's a little busy and I don't want to disturb them" Sakura smiled sweetly at the older woman, she was happy that everyone was just getting along it was proof enough to her that even the toughest of people could change 'Except for Orochimaru' she shuddered in thought.
The two females left after bidding all the males farewell and Temari who sulked, but she knew better than to complain, besides she'd have her chance later to talk and spend time with the pinkette anyways so what was a few more hours.
Ay groaned and leaned his head back to stare at the ceiling of the tea and dango shop "That brat I swear, bouncing between emotion to the next" he shook his head and stood, since Sakura was off doing something there was no need to stick around.
"I agree, Sakura-san is quite the intriguing little girl" Gengetsu cleared his throat as they all left the restaurant and headed off to find something to do, which basically ended up with the lot of them pacing in front of the bath house.
Within Sakura relaxed in the heated waters of the hot spring, it had been a long while since she had been able to relax like this "Hey Lady Mei" she waved to the auburn haired woman as she stepped into view wearing the recommended towel around her body.
Glad she didn't have to waste time searching for the pinkette though she doubted it would have been that difficult, Mei walked through the hot springs towards the young girl "Ah this is nice" she stretched and Sakura grinned.
"It sure is Lady Mei" the pinkette leaned back relaxing further, silence reigned between the two females as they soaked in the water for a long time, nearly a full hour of quiet, Mei faced her companion for the time being and blinked in confusion.
Sakura was full on sleeping, her skin was a light red indicating the heat of the water was getting to her with a sigh Mei shook the girl awake "Sakura-san wake up" she commanded and the pinkette shot straight up and scraped her knee on the side of the hot spring.
If that wasn't enough, as Sakura was flailing about she tripped over a rock stubbing her toes in the process and landed face first in the water choking on it, meanwhile Mei was panicking "I'm okay" Sakura emerged from beneath the water.
It was clear she wasn't okay but Mei wasn't going to rebuke her "Come along now Sakura-chan, we've been in here long enough" the auburn haired woman stood and together they dried off and got dressed, when they exited the women bath house Mei about burst out laughing.
But of course Sakura had to make everything worse as she once again tripped over her feet, still reeling from the effects of the heated waters and landed flat on her face breaking her nose, "Good gracious child" Mei frowned.
"I'm fine" Sakura hopped up hobbling a little and she took a deep breath and snapped her nose back in place, her knee was scratched, her toes were throbbing and she felt run down again and she hadn't even done anything that day.
Ohnoki floated a little closer and formed hand signs and pressed them discreetly on Sakura's shoulders "He he he, let's see how you handle that brat" he chortled as her feet left the ground and the pinkette blinked her emerald eyes in awe.
Everyone else grimaced, but wisely kept silent "This is pretty cool Tsuchikage-sama" Sakura laughed softly as she took to floating off the ground with ease, to Ohnoki's eternal frustration, while everyone else after getting over the fact that Sakura was happy smiled in amusement.
"Well if ya like it that much brat I'll teach you how to use this jutsu, do you have earth nature" Ohnoki prodded wanting to learn more information about the brat he had just offered to teach one of his village's jutsu's to.
Sakura's eyes grew wide "Mhm and water nature, both elements combined are amazing" she breathed in excitement, this was so awesome being taught a high ranking jutsu from the Tsuchikage himself, 'Oh boy wait till Kiba hears about this' Sakura snickered to herself.
Tobirama smirked, that was perfect he could teach the kid some water jutsu's, but he'd wait until the weekend, he didn't want to run her ragged especially since she was still technically recovering from all that had happened to her recently.
Though all good things had to come to an end and their amusement faded as Sakura despite floating in the air slammed into a light pole "Damn" she cursed rubbing her sore head, why the hell did bad things keep happening to her it was ridiculous.
Ay, Darui and Hashirama snorted in amusement "You really are a trouble magnet" Gengetsu shook his head wondering how it was the girl managed to live day to day with all the problems she kept getting thrust into, it was nuts.
Sakura frowned and crossed her arms as Ohnoki removed the jutsu that had kept her practically weightless, the pinkette sighed "I wish I knew what went wrong" she rubbed her face tiredly and winced as her nose throbbed.
Hashirama sighed and went about healing the pinkette for what seemed the seventh time that day "You should head on home Sakura-chan and take it easy for the rest of the day" he shooed the girl off and she flashed them all a smile before skipping along the path to the Inuzuka Compound.
Tsume looked up when her unofficial daughter came in "Brat on the couch" she ordered and Sakura planted herself on the furniture a frown on her lips and worry in her emerald eyes "Relax, I'm just going to explain a few things to you" Tsume soothed.
"Oh so this is the talk you've been mentioning lately right Ma" Sakura tilted her head to the side and Tsume nodded taking a seat across from her in the chair, "Okay I'm listening" Sakura smiled, hopefully all the new things that have been happening will be explained.
With a sigh Tsume launched into the customary explanation all Inuzuka children got "Right so first thing you should know is that by essentially awakening you're Inuzuka blood you're senses will go haywire and it will disorient you for a long time until you grow use to it" she started.
"Like accidents will keep happening, it's you're body going out of whack because of you're surroundings, you may not be able to sense it but you're body does" Tsume announced and Sakura nodded in understanding, all the bad luck that had been happening lately essentially.
Before Tsume could continue "And how long will this continue, like a couple of weeks or will it be drawn out through months" Sakura asked holding her breath afterwards fearing the Inuzuka Matriarchs answer, Tsume softened her onyx eyes.
"It really depends brat, sometimes it lasts for a day, and ranges all the way to a year, the longest I've ever witnessed is two years" Tsume stated bluntly not sugar coating her words "But since you're such a natural I doubt it will go on for to much longer, maybe a few more weeks" she explained.
Sakura relaxed as Tsume continued, telling her all about her heightened senses and being able to sense danger from miles away even if she's unaware of it on a physical level her mind would know and have her react accordingly by getting out of the way before anything happened.
Her nose would be highly sensitive to strong smells and make her pass out while her body adjusted to the Inuzuka blood coursing through her veins and her gums would ache as her teeth slightly lengthened alongside her nails.
"And for the red veil, that will come out when someone that is close to you, and you're ninken is threatened, it's there to protect you and those you consider yours essentially" Tsume pressed onward, there was a lot to tell the pinkette after all.
Once again Sakura stopped her "The Inuzuka Females, is that how it's always done with a fight to see who's fit to be with Kiba" she questioned curiously wanting to find out as much as she could, it was nice that Tsume had finally decided to tell her all of this.
Realizing that Sakura had made a valid point Tsume leaned back in her chair "Yes, if they feel you aren't fit enough for Kiba and they want him for their selves they have the rights to challenge you" she muttered under her breath, those idiot females were liable to be put in the hospital if they pissed Sakura off.
"Also you have to basically make them submit, beat them down and don't let up, that's how you become the Alpha" Tsume warned "And with that concludes everything you need to know about you're clan Sakura" she clapped her hands before heading into the kitchen to make dinner.
Shocked the pinkette sat on the couch silently as all the new knowledge she had been given was stored away, before she could stand Kuromaru padded into the living room and hopped up on the couch placing his massive head in her lap for a head rub.
Instantly knowing what the ninken wanted Sakura scratched behind Kuromaru's ears while stroking his fur with her other hand until he was basically mush in her hands, after they had been returned to the village, they, Kuromaru and her had a stronger bond with each other.
Wanting to know where her companion had wandered off to, Tsume paused in her cooking as she lowered the heat and spread out her senses and found Kuromaru in the living room with Sakura, leaning her head around the corner of the kitchen, she shook head not surprised.
'Damn old dog' Tsume snorted returning to her task, Hana would be here soon and Kiba would be back later tonight, the boy would probably try to sneak into Sakura's room before heading to bed, she had complete faith he wouldn't do anything bad but still.
A feral grin spread across her lips as she thought of a prank to play on Kiba, she'd take the heat in the morning but it would be fun and that's all that mattered, a moment later the padding of feet on the tiled floor alerted her to Sakura's presence in the kitchen.
"Ca..May I help Ma" the pinkette wrung her hands together as she offered her help, Tsume raised a brow at Sakura before moving over and letting the girl finish up dinner, twenty minutes later as she was setting up the table Hana entered the house with her triplet ninken in tow.
The three Haimaru instantly made a dash towards Sakura just as she was setting down the final plate and slammed into her, the dish went flying and shattered against the wall, Hana cringed, Tsume sighed and Sakura stood in the middle of the madness looking at her hands as if she'd never seen them before.
Feeling awful, the three ninken flattened themselves to the floor, they hadn't meant to cause a problem "We're sorry Sakura-san, we just missed you and it's been awhile since we've had a good head rub" the one in the middle instantly apologized.
Tsume threw her hands in the air "For kami's sake, that's what had you three charging through this house like wild animals on a warpath" she snapped, there was no real heat behind her words but only Sakura and Hana could tell, the triplets whined and covered their muzzles with a paw.
"We truly are sorry Tsume-sama, we didn't realize she had a plate in her hands, otherwise we would have waited" the Haimaru to the right looked at the woman shame in his eyes while the remaining Haimaru avoided looking at anyone.
Suddenly Hana burst out laughing and Tsume rubbed her face "Don't worry Ma, I'll clean it up" Hana suggested before walking forward and started picking up all the pieces of glass "So I take it accidents have started happening" she asked looking at the pinkette.
Sakura let out a world weary sigh and that was more than enough of an answer for Hana, Tsume smiled in amusement 'Poor pink brat, don't worry kid it will be over sooner than you think' she thought inwardly as the girl pulled out a new plate and carefully arranged it on the table.
The three females sat down to eat dinner that had been semi made by Sakura by the time they were finished Hana looked surprised "Kiba's not back yet, I'm shocked" she stated easily as they headed into the living room as Sakura padded off to take a shower.
Once she was done she entered her bedroom and found her twin female ninken sleeping on her bed curled around each other "They went out and trained on their own for awhile" Tsume announced her presence and Sakura whirled around facing the woman.
A fond look in her emerald eyes "I'm glad" Sakura ran her hand down the length of Lana's body, the dark pink haired pup never stirring once proving how hard they must have trained while she was off going around town and spending time with people.
Tsume watched as Sakura lifted her two ninken into her arms and climbed into the massive bed before setting them in their previous spot quickly so as not to disturb them, her eyes fluttered close and soon Sakura's breathing evened out indicating she had fallen asleep.
When Tsume was sure the pinkette wouldn't wake up any time soon, she put a barrier jutsu over Sakura's door that would ban Kiba from entering the room, with another smirk she slapped a seal on the doorway and headed to her own room to get some rest.
Later that night Kiba trudged wearily into his house and heated up left over dinner, once he was done, he washed his dishes and padded silently down the halls, Akamaru asleep on his head tuckered out from their mission, and to the bathroom to shower.
After he was finished, Kiba made a beeline to Sakura's bedroom door and pulled it open quietly, but when he tried to pass through the doorway, he was thrown on his ass, Kiba blinked his onyx eyes and tried again only to once again be thrown back.
"What the devil" Kiba growled, what the hell had he done now to piss Sakura off that she would put up a barrier to keep him out of her room, sulking Kiba stalked across the hall to his room and yanked open the door and flopped down on his bed and fell asleep.
The next morning Sakura woke before anyone and feeling refreshed as her chakra reserves returned to their regular levels she nudged her ninken awake "Lena, Lana get up, it's time to train for a bit" Sakura announced and the two pups jumped up in excitement.
"Oh boy we can't wait Sakura-chan, we want to show you something" Lana wriggled as her tail waved back and forth smacking her sister in the face, Sakura giggled at them and she let out a yip of happiness, she was just so happy that Sakura was okay again.
Lena growled "Lana stop it" she huffed nipping at her sisters tail and starting a puppy fight that was until Sakura raised a slender pink brow and they flattened themselves to the bed "Sorry Sakura-chan" Lena apologized knowing that had essentially started it.
Sakura smiled running a hand through their dark pink hair and noticing how much longer it had gotten recently "Guess it's time to go get another haircut and what is it that you want to show me" she asked scooping the two pups into her arms and exiting her bedroom.
"Thank you Sakura-chan, our hair has been bugging us lately" Lana licked Sakura's cheek showing her affection for her handler and got another one from Lena, apparently both of them had been wanting to get their hair trimmed lately and Sakura had just been to busy being kidnapped to notice.
Then as if they remembered her second question Lena took the initiative "It's amazing" she announced sheepishly "But basically Lana and I found out we can use a clone of ourselves" Lena explained in confusion, Tsume had showed them but now she'd have to show Sakura as well.
Blinking her emerald eyes Sakura exited the house and found Tsume waiting for her, not only that but everyone was gathered, the Kage's and their escorts and of course Zabuza and Haku, who would be taking up temporary residence in the compound until better accommodations could be found.
Though they would be living in a small house that had just been built for them just a few houses away "Ma" Sakura asked in confusion, Tsume beckoned her forward and she came without question "Are you going to teach me something new" she questioned.
"That's right pink brat, it's called Inuzuka Style: Exploding Puppy Clone Jutsu, basically you make a clone of you're ninken and place a timed weapons tag on it and an exploding tag and at the right moment you set it off from a distance" Tsume explained easily.
All those that were gathered in the private training grounds in the Inuzuka Compound watched as Tsume created a clone of her ninken to show Sakura going through the hand signs slowly for the girl to memorize before placing a dual exploding/weapons tag on the clone ninken's body.
Then Tsume had Sakura and her own ninken move out of the way and from a distance of fifteen feet set off the tag destroying the clone with a puff of smoke and from within that smoke came the weapons and they flung every which way.
When the attack dissipated Tsume turned to the pinkette and covered her mouth in shock, several of the kunai and some shuriken had flew towards them and struck Sakura "Oops forgot about that" she grimaced helping the girl remove the weapons.
Sakura sighed 'Great, just fucking great' she groaned inwardly, everyone was going to think she was such a ditz if this kept up, all that hard work was going to go down the gutter all because of the blood that was making her body go wonky.
Ay let out a bark of laughter prompting several of the other men to do the same and Sakura turned beat red in embarrassment, but she kept her lips pressed together, Darui grimaced realizing it wasn't such a good idea to laugh at the pinkette right now and stopped instantly upon seeing the anger blazing away in her emerald eyes.
Just then Kiba came charging out of the house "Oi Sakura-chan have I done something to make you angry" he questioned brows creased as dread filled his stomach, the pinkette turned towards him a look of confusion alighting across her pouting features.
"What the heck are you talking about Kiba, I'm not angry with you" Sakura shook her head as she tried the newest jutsu she had just been taught, Kiba however walked right up to her and pulled her into a hug "Uh Kiba" Sakura sulked as she accidentally set the jutsu off and the weapons flew straight at them.
Kiba dragged himself and his girlfriend to the ground and the weapons struck the house "There was a barrier over you're doorway and I couldn't get through so I thought maybe I had done something" he explained as he helped Sakura onto her feet again.
Suddenly Tsume started laughing "Oh that's priceless pup, guess I should tell you now, I set that up as a little prank, don't worry I'll take it down tonight" she laughed throwing her head back causing everyone to start chuckling or giggling again.
Even Sakura joined in "Aw did Kiba not get some hugs last night" she teased causing her boyfriend to huff at her and his cheeks to turn dark red in embarrassment, "Well" Sakura giggled unable to help herself as she leaned down and pressed her lips to his burning cheek.
Kiba fled after that and more laughter ensued, once her distraction was over Sakura returned to practicing her newest clan jutsu before correctly executing it, then she moved on to using the other jutsu's she had already been taught being mindful not to go overboard.
Instead of training till she dropped Sakura skipped over stamina and taijutsu training and headed straight in to using her chakra nature "Earth Style: Earth Rock Staff" she called molding her chakra and forming it into a staff.
Ohnoki watched as Sakura swung it correctly at one of the training dummies before repeating the exercise for fifteen minutes, then she used a different earth style jutsu and another before she finally finished up with water jutsu's.
Tsume watched curiously, Sakura was more gifted with her water nature than her earth nature as the girl flung water shuriken, kunai, senbon and even formed a sword at the targets until she used a different water jutsu.
Sakura took a deep breath wanting to try out a more difficult jutsu, so she flipped through her book memorized the hand signs and flew through them with ease "Water Style: Rising Water Cutter" Sakura stated and kicked her foot forward sending a wave of water at a training dummy.
To say the Kage's were deeply impressed by the amount of damage the young girl could inflict despite still being a genin was an understatement, and when Sakura was finished, Tobirama strode forward "So what are you going to do now" he asked staring into her emerald eyes.
"Probably eat to replenish my energy" Sakura answered with as serious a face as she could muster before cracking up in laughter "I'm sorry" she quipped a silly smile playing on her lips as she headed into the house, her shoulders shaking in laughter the entire way.
Hashirama snorted "Inuzuka's do love their food after all especially meat brother" he patted Tobirama on the back as they all headed towards the gates to wait for Sakura, they knew she had to be at the T&I building today and they were going to walk with her and loiter about for awhile.
Meanwhile across the village, Shisui was sulking, Sasuke was out on a mission, Itachi wasn't responding to his letters, even though it had only been two days since he had been revived alongside Minato and the other previous Hokage.
'Guess I'll go see Morino and ask if he has anything for me to do' Shisui sighed as he headed towards the anbu headquarters building along the way he ran into Minato "What brings you this way Lord Minato" the Uchiha questioned.
Blue eyes met onyx before Minato shrugged "I was hoping there was something I could to do help, it's not right to make a young girl do paperwork" he stated as they headed in together, Ibiki wasn't in his office, but Anko was.
"Is there something you need" the snake mistress asked flipping through a folder, never once did she look up at the two men, Minato and Shisui shared a look before the blonde stepped forward and cleared his throat drawing Anko's gaze onto himself.
"Yes about that we were wondering if there was anything we could do to help, with all this extra time on my hands I find myself bored easily" Minato cringed, that made him sound like a desperate person wanting food and that's not how he wanted to portray himself.
Anko raised a purple brow "Pinky is coming today so perhaps you can help Morino with interrogation, the young Uchiha isn't here today cause he's out on a mission" she supplied before setting the file she was flipping through down on Sakura's desk.
Shisui groaned "Actually we were wondering if we could do the paperwork" he suggested and Anko glanced right at him "Little girls don't need to do such a boring job anyway" Shisui continued unaware that the very person he was speaking of was standing behind him.
Once Sakura had finished eating breakfast and had taken a shower, she had loped towards the gates and found everyone waiting for her "Right I'll show you that jutsu later brat" Ohnoki remembered his promised from yesterday as they walked through the village towards T&I.
What surprised him was how quickly Tobirama jumped in "And as soon as Tsuchikage-san is finished I'll teach you a few water jutsu as well, so prepare yourself I don't teach people often so consider yourself lucky Inuzuka-san" the white haired male stated bluntly.
Managing to reign in the urge to gasp, Sakura faced both men before smiling "Thank you Tsuchikage-sama, Lord Second" she bowed her head before skipping ahead of them to walk next to Ay, Darui and Cee immediately stood on her other side blocking her on all sides of any sudden attacks.
An indignant expression crossed Tobirama's face before he blurted out "Tobirama, call me by my name" he called to the pinkette and got a wide eyed stare from the young girl, before she slowly nodded in understanding.
Ohnoki grumbled "And just call me Ohnoki, it's irritating to be called by title all the time" he huffed and his granddaughter and Akatsuchi gave him a look of confusion, the short elderly man hated to be called by anything but his title so why was he changing that rule now.
They both looked at Sakura who seemed extremely surprised and nodded 'It's due to that girls influence' Kurotsuchi thought mildly 'I hope I get the chance to hang out with her soon' she sighed inwardly as they walked along the streets of the very bright village.
Gengetsu smiled to himself and Yagura chuckled softly under his breath, Ay smirked, Cee shook his head, Darui patted Sakura on the head, Baki rolled his eyes, Gaara blinked, Temari grinned and Mei giggled behind her hand.
Soon enough the enlarged group made it to the T&I building that Sakura worked part time at and they all shuffled down the hall towards Ibiki's office, the door was already open and they all caught the tail end of the Uchiha that had been revived conversation.
A dark look entered Sakura's emerald eyes and Hashirama cringed as she stalked forward and in a clipped and agitated tone of voice "Actually Uchiha-san, I like doing paperwork" she growled and sat down in her desk "And it is in no way boring as you so kindly put it" Sakura snapped.
Shisui backed up and Minato bit his cheek as chuckles sounded from behind them, Anko rolled her brown eyes and slapped a stack of folders that needed organizing on Sakura's desk "Okay pinky, Morino should be back in ten minutes get to work" she ordered before leaving the office.
"Understood Mitarashi-sempai" Sakura called flipping open the first folder and immersing herself in her work forgetting all about her anger until Shisui flopped down in a chair that was situated in front of her desk "Is there something you need" the pinkette asked earlier anger surging through her veins.
"Sorry I didn't mean to offend you but really you shouldn't be in this stuffy old office, you should be out traveling or spending time with you're friends or training or doing whatever you girls like to do nowadays" Shisui waved his arms madly in front of the young girl.
A snort came from Yagura and Mei stared at him in surprise "What I think it's funny, I tried to offer my help on the first day and she refused so I doubt she's going to listen to you either Uchiha-san" he shrugged eliciting more laughter from the group as they filed into the office and found a spot to sit.
Minato smoothly slipped around the desk that Sakura was seated at and situated himself next to the young girl "Sakura-san right" he asked just to make sure and she nodded "If you're Ibiki's assistant does that mean you help out in the torture and interrogation sessions" Minato narrowed his blue eyes.
Sakura looked right into his eyes "No, on the first day yes, but then Sasuke came here and offered his talents so I was taken out of the situation, my purpose is solely organizing these files and keeping that filing cabinet in good order" she explained as she stacked a pile neatly and placed them in a folder.
The blonde went to ask another question but a man entered the office "Ah Inuzuka-san, Morino-san said he would be a bit longer, fifteen more minutes" he waved and Sakura nodded writing that down in a little notebook so she could watch the time.
When he was gone Minato opened his mouth again "What makes organizing paperwork so interesting to you, most young people I know hated doing that sort of thing so why do you" he inquired, the last thing he wanted to do was irritate the girl further with his seemingly annoying questions.
"It keeps me out of trouble, plus I've always been good with my hands" Sakura smiled then a frown pulled her lips down as she remembered the chaos from that morning 'Maybe it wasn't such a good idea to come in today' Sakura grimaced inwardly.
Oh well there was nothing she could do now, Minato frowned as well and fell silent, the only sound in the office Sakura flipping through page after page of highly classified documents and piling them neatly in a folder, just as she was standing to put them away Ibiki entered the office.
And Sakura's chair broke sending the folders flying through the air as she flailed her arms to get her balance righted, she hit the corner of her desk and black spots danced across her vision "Ow" Sakura groaned in pain and Ibiki stood frozen in the doorway of his office.
"You alright there Inuzuka" he barked when she remained doubled over agony painted across her young face, Sakura inhaled sharply before nodding and pressed a hand to her temple and quickly healed it before grabbing up all the paperwork that she had scattered.
"Yeah I'm fine" Sakura muttered "Just a little bit of bad luck is all, my chakra is going all out of whack on me so accidents keep happening" she pointed at the chair to give an example of what was now happening to her on a daily basis.
Ibiki blinked and his lips twitched upwards in silent amusement, he didn't dare laugh though he wanted to, Sakura was already having enough trouble as it was as she hurriedly sorted through the folders and found them still in the order she had put them before righting the documents.
As she headed towards the cabinet he jumped forward and took the files from her "Maybe it's better if I organize them" Ibiki stated and sent Sakura back towards her desk 'Blasted girl always making me work harder' he huffed inwardly as he tried to put the folders neatly in his tiny filing cabinet.
Sakura was full on sulking by the time he shut the cabinet drawer "Okay brat I think you should scram get out of here until whatever is going on runs it's course" he shooed the pinkette out of his office but she looked extremely reluctant, but in the end she turned on her heel and left.
"That was a little mean" Tobirama spoke up suddenly drawing Ibiki's onyx eyes onto himself "You care about her is that why you sent her away" he questioned and the man nodded in affirmation "So she's got you wrapped around her fingers as well" Tobirama smirked.
"Damn it all to hell, that brat I swear she's the most troublesome girl I've ever met, but also the most hard working one I've ever met as well" Ibiki rubbed his face with a heavy hand, as much as he didn't like it Sakura had wormed her way into his heart and he was hooked on the pinkette.
Shisui leaned forward wanting to get a few more details but a scuffle started up right outside the door and a piercing shriek made his ears throb painfully, Ibiki shot out of his seat and slammed his way through his office door breaking it down in his haste to get outside.
This caused everyone to look around in confusion wondering what was going on until Ibiki returned Sakura trailing after him, in the few short minutes that she had left the office, an anbu that didn't like her working as Ibiki's assistant had attacked her.
Her pink hair was shortened by a few inches and tears trickled out of her tightly shut eyes, a few scratches could be seen and she was cradling her arm, Ay went rigid in his chair "Brat" he called softly but she refused to even look at him.
"What happened" Yagura asked next looking straight at Ibiki since Sakura seemed to be blanking them all at the moment, the anbu commander glared so hard as the man that had attacked the pinkette walked stiffly into the office and Sakura flinched away from him.
Knuckles going white as his fists remained clenched, Ibiki continued glaring at his subordinate "What Possessed You TO ATTACK HER" he roared suddenly slamming his hands on his desk and breaking it in half like Tsunade was so prone to doing when she was angry.
"That little brat is a genin, if she decided to betray us, she could leak important information to our enemies so I was just going to take her out so that she wouldn't be a potential threat in the future" the man shrugged uncaring until a hand was wrapped tightly around his throat.
Hearing those words made Ay's blood boil with rage and he couldn't stop himself as he stood and grabbed the shorter man by the neck and squeezed until the man was blue in the face "You Of All People Should Know What That Girl Has Gone Through" he snarled.
Sakura wrapped her arms around her body shaking as her body shut down, he had touched her pinned her to the wall like Sakon had 'No, I can't let it get to me, it's not like he' her breath hitched as her thoughts cut off, she couldn't even think the words.
She flinched as a warm hand touched her shoulder "Sakura-chan, Sakura-chan" a familiar voice called as the noise in the office died down until all she could focus on was that gentle voice, slowly Sakura opened her emerald eyes and they came into focus.
"There you are" Mei smiled kindly at the shaken girl and seated her in her vacated chair "Is you're arm okay" she asked softly to the pale faced and trembling girl, Sakura blinked slowly for several minutes before shaking her head no.
Hashirama quickly stood but thought better of it as Sakura blanched "S'okay Hashirama-san" the pinkette murmured her voice wavering as she silently cried, why did everything keep happening to her it wasn't fair, and it was getting extremely old.
Slowly so as not to cause the pinkette anymore stress Hashirama filled his hands with healing chakra and quickly healed Sakura's arm keeping his contact with her minimal at best, Ay, Ibiki and the man who had attacked her had gone to get Tsunade.
Darui and Cee had flown from the room in a rage and went to calm themselves down, Sakura didn't need to see them angry, everyone else was in shock, "Care to share" Shisui asked and the pinkette slammed her jaw shut blanking the man.
Minato shot the Uchiha a hard look "Shisui apologize, she doesn't need you ordering her around right now" he commanded and Shisui cringed realizing how his words had sounded, though he quickly did as asked, Sakura completely ignored him curling in on herself.
Her breathing hitched and more tears streamed down her cheeks "I...I, I" Sakura stuttered finding it extremely hard to even speak at the moment, everyone still in the room kept silent as she tried to explain what had happened.
Tsunade stormed into the office and took one look at her apprentice before the girl flew from her chair and pressed herself to the wall emerald eyes wide in fright "Hey take it easy brat" she walked forward slowly, Sakura was like a wild animal and if she wasn't careful, she'd end up getting hurt.
Realizing where she was finally and who was before her, Sakura slumped to the floor crying her heart out, sobs growing in volume "He did what Sakon did" she trembled and Tsunade wrapped her arms around the young girl.
Glad that the pinkette wasn't pulling away Tsunade rocked the girl back and forth until her breathing evened out "Hush now" she murmured softly until Sakura was sleeping peacefully tears slowing to a stop outside in the hall anbu were gathering having heard and some seen the commotion.
"Someone clean this mess up right now" Tsunade barked as she stood and gathered Sakura into her arms and left the room leaving the Kage's and their escorts, or the revived Kage's and whoever else behind as she headed to the Inuzuka Compound.
Half way there Sakura blinked awake "Tsunade-sama" she questioned in confusion "What's going on" she craned her neck around trying to find something that would let her know where she was, Tsunade frowned before sighing in realization.
"Don't worry about it brat" Tsunade set the girl on her feet "Go find you're team train with them for awhile, take it easy for the rest of day" she ordered before stalking back towards the T&I building where everyone was still gathered.
"Okay listen up, none of you better mention what happened to Sakura to her at all, it seems she's blocked it from her mind somehow so it's better to keep quiet, she doesn't need anymore stress" Tsunade glared around.
Tobirama and Hashirama frowned but nodded in understanding, that girl was truly one of the most kind hearted and it was understandable that she'd tried to block any events that happened to her in her mind essentially forgetting about them.
"That's it then, she's just got you all wrapped around her fingers" Shisui jumped up, he didn't like this one little bit, why did everyone care about one little girl, she wasn't making a difference to the ninja world so why.
Minato shook his head as Shisui was whacked harshly over the back of the head "That girl has put her heart and soul into everything she does, you don't know what she's been through to get to where she's at now and so help me Shisui Uchiha if you say anything like that to her, I'll personally put you six feet in the ground myself" Tsunade snarled.
Yagura sighed, it was going to be difficult leaving that was for sure 'Unless' he thought before nodding, he'd talk to Mei later about staying in the Leaf Village for a little longer until he was certain the pinkette would be fine on her own.
Just then Ibiki, Ay and his two escorts, Darui and Cee, came back into the room "Where's Sakura" Ay snapped looking around and not finding the adorable girl, Tsunade snorted what Shisui said was mostly the truth, Sakura did have them all wrapped around her little fingers.
"Probably with her friends right now, since none of you were in here before I'll explain it again, Sakura's blocked this little incident from her mind, so don't mention it to her at all" the blonde huffed as Ibiki sat down in his chair and groaned.
"Okay everyone out of my office, I have work to do" Ibiki straightened and shooed everyone out, no one hesitated and they all fled except for Tsunade "Do you think that brat will be fine" he questioned and the blonde gave a grimace.
Then she sighed softly "For her sake I hope nothing happens, Tsume told me that this would happen, it's not really her fault that the anbu attacked, her chakra is going haywire inside her and causing all these incidents, though before that was just pure bad luck" Tsunade stated before leaving.
When she was gone Ibiki slammed his head on the newly replaced desk as Anko slunk into the room "You know Morino, I could tail that brat with Tenzo everyday to" the purple haired special jonin offered and the man shot up.
"You make a good point Mitarashi, alright go find Tenzo and keep your eyes peeled on that brat" Ibiki ordered, the purple haired woman sped from the office to do as ordered 'Hope whatever is going on gets over soon because this is becoming ridiculous' he thought rubbing his face tiredly before starting on his work.
With Sakura it was only one in the afternoon so with all the free time on her hands she decided to just go to her teams training grounds and wait, this time Shikaku wasn't lounging in the tree and Sakura flopped down on her but against it.
Across the street from where Sakura was situated Tenzo was watching his pink haired charge and jumped suddenly when Anko appeared next to him "Guess what woodman we're partners now, I've been ordered to watch the brat now to" she smirked before falling silent.
"Did something happen" Tenzo questioned and Anko nodded but didn't elaborate as they both kept their eyes glued to the young girl they were tasked with keeping an eye out for, several minutes passed by before she decided to move around.
As she was standing, Sakura's foot got stuck in a hole and flailed her arms about as she tried to get her balance back, it was far to late and she landed splat on her face, she winced and quickly healed her ankle that had twisted in the process.
Kakashi who was walking by saw this and meandered over to his previous female student "Hey Sakura-chan" he greeted and the pinkette flashed him a small smile and waved as she leaned heavily against the tree she was situated against.
"Hi Kakashi-sensei" Sakura took her turn to greet her ex-sensei "What brings you to this side of the village" she inquired, usually the man avoided this area like the plague, then she had to wonder was it something she had done, she had thought they'd been getting along better after that mission.
The silver haired jonin strode forward and settled himself against the tree as well "Just taking a walk, I thought you worked at T&I" Kakashi tilted his head to the side as he peered at the pinkette curiously "So is everything okay, you didn't quit did you" he asked worried.
Sakura blushed redder than ever before "Well since my Inuzuka Blood awakened so to speak, little accidents like the one you just saw have been happening and I've essentially become an extremely clumsy person until my blood settles down" she squeaked in embarrassment.
"So basically Ibiki kicked you out of his office until everything calmed down" Kakashi chuckled and ruffled Sakura slightly shortened pink hair, some strands were longer than the others "Did you try to give yourself another haircut" he joked not expecting Sakura to curl in on herself.
Despite what Tsunade thought, Sakura hadn't forgotten, no she was going to pretend nothing had happened "Just a little accident is all, I'll have Ino-chan fix it later" the pinkette mumbled as she forced herself to calm down, Kakashi wasn't going to hurt her.
Kakashi wanted to ask but he didn't want to damage his repaired relationship with his former student, so he slipped into his thoughts digging around for something to talk about and get Sakura's mind off of whatever it was she was thinking about.
"How's training with the Inuzuka's going, have you learned anything new" he finally inquired and Sakura jumped up all excited, she would have tripped if it hadn't been for Darui appearing next to her and setting her properly on her feet.
Then Sakura remembered "Wait a second when did you get back Kakashi-sensei" she all but shouted as she wiggled in anticipation, the silver haired man eyed her warily before deciding to indulge the pinkette for the moment and respond to her question.
"About an hour ago why, is it so that you can see Naruto and Sasuke" he stated in a knowing tone of voice, Sakura nodded eagerly before pointing at two people, Kakashi turned in their direction and nearly dropped his book in shock.
Zabuza grimaced, he hadn't realized by sticking close to the kid that had defended them would lead them straight to Kakashi so soon afterwards "Hatake" he nodded instead remaining calm in the face of potential danger, he certainly didn't want to end up dying again.
Sakura was exuding pure happiness and Kakashi couldn't really rebuke the girl, "Let's go talk" he gestured his head to the path, both men and Haku walked away leaving Sakura with the previous Kage's and the current ones with their escorts.
"Right so when does you're team training start brat" Ohnoki floated towards the pinkette and she looked at the sky for a moment trying to determine the time, before looking at him and took a deep breath answered in an extremely confident tone.
"About an hour and a half I reckon, usually it starts around three and it's one thirty now" Sakura stated running her hands through her slightly shortened pink hair and inwardly pouting, she had never wanted to cut it again but yet here it was slightly short again, though thankfully it was just an inch this time.
Ohnoki smirked "Okay brat, I'm going to teach you that jutsu, of course we also have the weekends but it's better to start now than wait til later" he commented before forming hand signs at a slower pace than he was use to, there was no reason to make the girl struggle more than she already had that day.
Sakura watched carefully as the Tsuchikage finished the hand signs, each of them stored in her memory for easy use and then touched the older boy that had come with him "Earth Style: Lightened Boulder Jutsu" Ohnoki murmured.
Akatsuchi floated off the ground like his leader and did a few flips before the jutsu was removed "I think I understand" Sakura said slowly as she ran over the jutsu to understand it's mechanics a little more "I think I'm ready to try is that okay Ohnoki-sama" she smiled sheepishly.
"Go for it brat, but if you fail that's fine, no one gets it right on the first try and it is an extremely difficult jutsu after all" Ohnoki responded flippantly, Sakura took a deep breath and carefully ran through the list of hand signs she had memorized.
When she was done, Sakura touched her hand to a regular rock "Earth Style: Lightened Boulder Jutsu" she called softly pouring her chakra in, Sakura immediately realized what made the jutsu so difficult, you had to use a lot of chakra for it to work and she was nearly drained before the rock started lifting from the ground.
Ohnoki blinked "Not bad for you're first try, but you'll get use to it eventually and it will become easier for you to use" he supplied as she reached into her pouch and pulled out a chakra restoration pill and crunched it to gain some of her chakra back, there was no need to get herself sick again after all.
Minato crossed his arms just as a little blue eyed blonde that he was extremely familiar with and Sasuke Uchiha came tearing around the corner, Sai hot on their heels "Sakura-chan" Naruto squealed latching onto the pinkette and Sasuke even hid behind the girl.
Eye twitching, Sakura harrumphed "Naruto, Sasuke what the devil do you think you two are doing, I'm not you're shield" she huffed eyeing both boys until they gave her sheepish smiles, Sai however cringed and fled not wanting to be near her "Honestly" Sakura shook her head.
"Well he wouldn't stop talking about..." Naruto trailed off noticing all the people "Never mind it's not important Sakura-chan" he shook his head blonde hair flinging every which way sending droplets of water everywhere, Sai had pushed him into the river after all.
"Ack Naruto you idiot why the hell are you wet" Sakura screeched and leaped away from the blonde, he gave her a whiskered pout "Oh forget it, baka" she teased pulling the boy in for a hug before doing the same to Sasuke "Right got a surprise for you Naruto, you to Sasuke but it's more for Naruto" Sakura chattered.
Shisui watched in awe as Sasuke actually participated in a conversation with Sakura and whistled softly "What do you think Lord Fourth" he looked at the blonde Hokage only to find him watching the younger blonde in the clearing.
Minato's thoughts were a spiral of sadness, did he dare tell Naruto the truth, had anyone told him that he and Kushina had loved him, was Naruto regarded as a hero like he had wanted, everything was so complicated in that moment and he sighed feeling a headache coming on.
Sakura heard the soft sigh and glanced into equally blue eyes, then her mind clicked, 'Course why didn't I make the connection earlier' she thought slightly ashamed of herself, Minato looked surprised though when she looked between him and Naruto repeatedly before nodding slowly in answer.
Sasuke smiled, he was glad Sakura hadn't gotten in anymore trouble since he and Naruto had been gone "How are you Inuzuka" he questioned smile becoming a smirk as the pinkette huffed at him and rolled her emerald eyes in answer.
"Just peachy, and Sasuke you don't think that cocky act works anymore do you" Sakura gave her own version of a smirk as the Uchiha floundered a bit before rolling his eyes like she had a few moments before hand and shrugged in answer.
"No but I can always try" Sasuke chuckled before his gaze trailed over the clearing and lighted on the one person he hadn't seen since he was eight "Shisui" he whispered gulping softly as the older boy strode forward and nodded.
"Come on Sasuke-kun let's go talk, I need you to tell me everything that's gone down so far" Shisui beckoned the preteen over to him and they left like Kakashi, Zabuza and Haku had, Sakura watched them go a soft smile playing on her lips.
Minato jumped back as the pinkette looked straight at him before gesturing to Naruto, losing his composure, he shook his head and Sakura frowned understanding in her emerald eyes "Hey Naruto-kun, how's dating Hinata-chan going for ya" she asked.
His cheeks turned red "Sakura-chan" he whined mortified but Sakura wouldn't relent so he finally told her "It's going good, we went out together before we left on a mission, no kissing yet though, can't all be mature like you Sakura-chan" Naruto explained.
"Pfffftt" Sakura choked on her laughter "Naruto you still have a long ways to go before you understand girls" she smiled and pulled him in for another hug "You should go find her though and let her know you're back" Sakura waved the blonde off.
"See you later Sakura-chan" Naruto waved speeding off the training grounds, when he was gone, Sakura released a sigh and prepared to sit down, but Shikaku appeared behind her and she leaped away from him a soft shriek falling from her lips.
"Nara-sensei" Sakura pouted to everyone's amusement, the jonin gave her a smirk and leaned against the tree, "I missed the test" she grimaced suddenly and Shikaku frowned before shaking his head "Huh you mean you didn't give the seal test to Suigetsu or Karin-chan" Sakura furrowed her brows.
Shikaku chuckled "No, I decided to postpone it until next week on Monday, that way you have a chance to read the book, we'll be working on something else today, Team Ten will be joining us for joint training" he explained.
Sakura jumped around "That's exciting what are you and Asuma-sensei going to have us do" she inquired sneakily, but Shikaku wouldn't budge, after ten minutes of pestering him with questions, Sakura relented and gave up on getting any of her questions answered.
Soon enough though the remaining two members of Team Eleven charged onto the training grounds following by Asuma, Ino, Shikamaru and Choji "We're all here right" Asuma gazed around and nodded in satisfaction no one was missing.
Shikaku straightened and the genin and one chunin fell in line "Today you six will be doing some recon, to test you're ability to search and find and then radio in, and of course you'll be paired up so take a slip of paper" the Nara handed out slips.
She was extremely curious to find out who's name was on her slip of paper but neither of the jonin were finished as Asuma cleared his throat "Basically you're job today is to find five items, there are clues littered throughout the village ranging five miles outside the village as well.
"Now don't worry if you find yourselves outside the village, everything has been taken care of and precautions are in place, also you'll be supplied with what you need, this will mission will last to Saturday any questions" Shikaku peered at his students.
Sakura bit her lip and stepped forward "I have a question Nara-sensei, what kind of items are we searching for or will we find out after we've gotten those packets you're trying to hide behind you're back Asuma-sensei" she snickered generating a round of giggles and chuckles.
Shikaku shook his head as Asuma chuckled "These hold all the information you need and I'd recommend taking along those ninken of yours" he suggested and Sakura nodded in understanding as he started handing out the packets and little communicators to each person.
"Okay you may now read you're slip of paper and find you're partner, you have fifteen minutes to come up with a plan, ten to gather anything you need and fifteen to read that packet" Shikaku ordered and Sakura quickly flipped over her paper before laughing softly.
Shikaku wandered towards her "How is that we always end up getting paired together, this is such a drag" he grumbled and Sakura smiled sheepishly "Right what do you suggest we do, where should we search first, how should we search" Shikamaru accepted his fate and asked Sakura her opinion.
The pinkette took a deep breath as they left the training grounds and headed towards the Inuzuka Compound "I think we should stick together, but keep our eyes peeled in opposite directions that way we'll spot something easier" Sakura suggested.
"Also I think we should start our search outside the village, and once we are done we can work our way back to the village and finish nice and easy" she continued, Shikamaru would probably tweak the plan but that was alright with her, he was smart after all.
Shikamaru crossed his arms in thought his mind going a million miles a minute as he thought of a more advanced version of the plan "Prepare for anything and everything, we'll start outside the village, then make quick work out there and come back as soon as possible, no dawdling" he stated.
Sakura grinned and clapped her hands, despite not wanting to leave the village, she knew that if they started out there then it wouldn't be so bad, and besides it was just five miles and with her and Shikamaru searching together, they'd probably be the first ones done.
"I'll be back, while you're waiting Shikamaru go ahead and read you're packet, I'll read mine when we head to wherever so that you can gather what you need" Sakura suggested as they stopped outside the Inuzuka Compound Gates.
The Nara Heir nodded and watched Sakura speed through the gates leaving behind a trail of dust, doing as suggested he pulled out his packet and quickly flipped it open, when she returned ten minutes later, Lena and Lana were tailing her and a small pack was situated on her shoulders.
As they walked to the Nara Compound, Sakura pulled out her own packet and read through it as Shikamaru headed in and grabbed what he needed, by the time they headed towards the gates they still had over fifteen minutes left before the start of their mission.
"We should get an early start, the others probably haven't even finished reading their packets" Shikamaru pointed out as they signed out and showed off the mission scroll, fifteen minutes after they left, Minato, Ay and Shikaku raced after them to make sure the two teens were protected while outside the village.
It was a simple mission as Shikamaru and Sakura gathered the two items needed outside the village after radioing in to Asuma, after telling them what kind of traps were set up and the plan they used to get past the traps, before heading back to the Leaf Village.
Minato was deeply impressed with the two preteens as they walked quietly side by side on Friday morning towards their village "They seem like a good pair, are they together" the blonde asked and Ay shook his head.
"Nope Sakura belongs to Kiba and likewise, that brat can't stop talking about the Inuzuka boy" the Raikage chuckled and Shikaku smirked in amusement, despite not being obsessed with doing girly things, Kiba was always first in Sakura's mind no matter what.
The former Hokage frowned "Belongs, what do you mean by that are they in an arranged marriage or something" Minato creased his forehead not liking the idea that someone in the village was being forced to marry someone against their will.
"Essentially yes, but it was by their own choices, that ring she wears is a pair with Kiba's and when they made a promise on them and shared their chakra with each other in the rings, they basically became engaged" Shikaku explained this time.
He hesitated for a moment "Also, Sakura was always meant to end up with Kiba anyway, she and that boy are reincarnations of Kiba's however many greats their are grandparents" Shikaku finished remembering the explanation Sakura had given them after she had completed the Inuzuka New Moon Ritual.
Ay nodded having already known that little tidbit of information "So neither of them can be with someone else" Minato shook his head, it was truly a terrible situation and if they were soul bound there was nothing he could do for them.
Shikaku and Ay shared a secretive look "Don't sound so put out Minato, trust us when we say that Sakura is quite happy with Kiba and no one forced her to be with him, in fact they got together long before they found out they were the reincarnated versions of Kiba's grandparents" Ay spoke.
Soon enough the group made it back to the village where Sakura and Shikamaru finished off their task and loped towards the training grounds where Asuma was waiting, he didn't appear entirely shocked that they had finished first "Congratulations" the man gave them a grin.
"Right what do we get for getting everything done first" Shikamaru crossed his arms staring his sensei down as his father, the fourth Hokage and the Raikage appeared on the training grounds a few minutes after they had gotten their.
Asuma nearly choked on his tongue as he pulled out small packages "Coupons to the Tea and Dango shop" he tossed the two boxes towards the two preteens before dismissing them, Sakura smiled and left heading home to the Inuzuka Compound.
After that the weekend passed by in a blur, on Saturday night the girls got together for another girls night, this time Kurotsuchi and Temari were included and the boys had their boys night again until the weekend was over and more training commenced.
Months flew by until Tsunade gathered everyone in her office, "I've called you all here today to tell you that the Chunin Exams will be upon us again, this time however they won't be held in the village, instead they'll be in the Hidden Mist Village" the blonde clapped her hands together.
Sakura held her hands tightly behind her back "Now since some of you have already been promoted, like Neji and Shikamaru and since Sai was a member of root previously, you three are exempt from the exam" Tsunade continued and the three boys left.
"I realize that leaves a few teams without members, so Tenten will join Team Seven temporarily and Lee will join Team Ten temporarily" the blonde ordered and the three teams situated themselves in their new formation.
Tsunade took a deep breath and backed away letting Mei take over explaining the rest of the new chunin exams, the woman had come from the Mist to lead the participating genin to her village "Right so this is a new exam, everything will be different" Mei warned before getting started.
"Basically there will still be a written exam, but it will be much more difficult, everyone will be in an individual room and take their test separately from their teammates, if any of the entire team misses one question, you'll be disqualified" Mei continued.
Karin clenched her fists, Suigetsu was horrible at written exams "But you'll have a chance to redeem yourselves if one of you're teammates offers up one of their answers for the one who had missed, but that's where things get tricky, you have to correctly guess which question you're teammate missed" the auburn haired woman stated.
The red head breathed a sigh of relief and Sakura leaned her head back "Once you're finished with the test's that's where you'll be assigned a jonin from the village and that's where things will get harder, you'll have two weeks to defeat him, ranging from sneak attacks or full on frontal attacks" Mei pressed on shocking some of the genin.
"And then a month after that, where you will all stay in the Hidden Mist Village, there will be a battle royal, every genin for themselves and last twenty one genin standing will be considered chunin" Mei finished looking over the group of Leaf Shinobi as they all eyed her warily.
Tsunade took over "Any questions" she glanced straight at Sakura and the pinkette shook her head this time, over the months the girl had become quiet and more mature as her Inuzuka blood finally calmed down all the little accidents that had been happening stopped.
"Good now gather you're equipment and get out of here" Tsunade snapped sending the genin scurrying from the office, Sakura paused for a moment then waved and followed her two teammates, this would be the ultimate test for Team Eleven, to decide if they deserved to remain together as an official team.