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Sakura pushed aside her empty bowl of ramen, taking a sip of her sake, just as a man pushed aside the curtain and stepped into the restaurant. A head taller than Sakura with short black hair, he was dressed in rough travelling clothes. He strode towards the innkeeper, leaning on the bar as casually as if he was ordering a drink. Even though Sakura couldn't hear what he was saying, the look on the innkeeper's face was enough to tell her that he was trouble. Quietly pushing back her chair, she slipped across the room to press her back against a pillar and listened.

'...it's time, old man. Do you have the money?'

'Atano-san...please...it is all we have...'

'And what does that matter to me? The money is due. Unless you want to explain to Lord Takamune why you don't want to pay?'

'No. I'm sorry. I...I will get the money...'

He reached under the bar and pulled out a bag of coins, holding it out to Atano with a shaking hand.

'Here...please, just take it and go...' He whispered and Atano took the bag, tucking it inside his tunic.

' I will. And just so you remember this the next time you think about not paying...'

He said, his hand reaching into his belt and producing a small knife, the innkeeper's face going pale.

'Please...'

'Leave him alone.' Sakura said, stepping out from behind the pillar and Atano turned towards her.

'Stay out of this, girl.' He snarled, flicking the knife towards her and Sakura grinned.

'Make me.' She quipped and Atano's eyes narrowed as he stepped towards her, slashing the knife towards her throat.

'You little...argh!' He grunted as Sakura dodged the blow, driving her knee into his stomach and sweeping his legs from under him.

'You bitch...' Atano snarled, as Sakura twisted his arm behind his back and hauled him to feet, pressing her kunai to his neck.

'You have two choices. Leave now and I'll let you live. Otherwise...'

'Who are you?' He growled and Sakura grinned, tightening her grip.

'A Konoha ninja.' She whispered, taking the money bag from his belt and releasing Atano, shoving him towards the door. 'Get out of here. Now.'

Atano's eyes narrowed, but he scrambled to his feet and out of the door. Sakura watched until he was out of sight before sheathing her kunai and turning back to the innkeeper.

'I'm sorry for the trouble...' She said, offering a bow and the innkeeper took a step back.

'Please. Just go. I don't want any trouble...'

Sakura hesitated for a second before placing the bag of coins on the bar and heading out into the street.

I can see why Kakashi-sensei sent me here. I guess I've got work to do...

Thank you for reading. I hope you enjoyed it. Any comments, reviews or constructive criticisms are very welcome.