~Authors Note
I'm sorry if this chapter seems a bit rushed, it's not I assure you, I hope you all enjoy this chapter until I upload the next, have a good day and sorry for suddenly deleting this chapter there was something I wanted to add in that I completely forgot about, it's in now and I hope you enjoy.
End Authors Note~
Hiruzen looked around the room filled with genin from many villages, several from his own and was proud of their accomplishments so far "Congratulations to all who've made through the second round, you've done well to make it this far" Hiruzen cleared his throat.
Making all eyes focus on him "I'm sure your all tired and ready to go home, but before that we'll have a preliminary round to choose the contestants for the final round, a battle royal if you will" the Hokage blew out a puff of smoke.
Kazekage at his side looking bored, he couldn't really tell to be honest "Those who don't wish to participate may choose not to and those that are going to participate head up to the balcony on the left, the rest of you to the right, let the preliminary round begin" he finished.
Sakura grabbed her teammates by the hands and dragged them up to the balcony on the left "Do you really think I have what it takes to win here Sakura-chan" Karin asked nervously as her gaze took in all the contestants that were choosing to participate, including her own teammates.
This earned her a smile "Yes Karin-chan, believe in yourself and you'll do fine alright" Sakura assured, scanning the balcony herself warily before staring down into the arena as a shinobi she'd never met before walked forward.
Coughing as he did so and then an electronic match board started up out of the corner of her eye landing on "Why'd it have to be me first that totally sucks" Sasuke grumbled reluctantly making his way down into the arena, opponent on his heels.
"Go get him Sasuke-kun I know you can beat him hands down" Ami cheered obnoxiously, missing the annoyed look shot her way by not only Sakura, but Ino and Karin to surprisingly who'd taken a real shining to the Uchiha who'd been kind to her.
Behind them a familiar person chuckled "Kakashi-sensei what are you doing here…Itachi, Shisui your here to why" Naruto was the first to notice and his whole countenance brightened with excitement, now was their chance to finally show their sensei they weren't little kids anymore.
Another chuckle and his hair got ruffled "I'm your sensei I'm obligated to be here to cheer my cute little genin on don't you think" Kakashi said lightly reading his orange book again, earning a dirty look from Sakura but she didn't complain.
Itachi let his lips quirk up into a smile before he frowned "Sakura…did you cut your hair" his brow creased not liking that something had possibly happened to his betrothed, maybe he should have insisted her taking Hisashi into the forest with her or at least the notebook.
But he hadn't and now he didn't know what she'd been through "Eh a genin from Otogakure grabbed it, so yeah, it's not so bad Itachi, I'm fine" the rosette smiled up at him warmly, and from their position far from Team Seven, teal eyes narrowed with interest.
Then Temari carefully started making her way towards the duo, brothers and sensei on her heels "What are you doing Temari" Kankuro grunted exhausted from staying in cramped quarters with Gaara of all people.
"I'm going to introduce myself to mister hot stuff over there Kankuro" Temari snorted a blush on her cheeks, Kankuro rolled his eyes in disgust at how easy it was for Temari to fall for a person not to mention the guy was technically their enemy since they were going to try and invade.
Just a few steps behind him was Gaara "Fool, we are not here to fraternize" who rolled his pale green orbs, just as disgusted but not understanding why his sister even cared when these people would soon be dead by their and Sound's hands.
Temari ignored them both though and soon they'd invaded the area where all the genin from Konohagakure were gathered, many shot them wary looks while Sakura was the only one to notice who the older girl had set her sights on.
She wanted to sigh again 'Great another fan-girl well at least I know Itachi won't have a shred of interest in her' Sakura thought to herself turning to check on Sasuke, who was having a bit of trouble with his opponent, then she focused on the incoming Sand kunoichi.
Just as she stopped in front of Itachi and gave him a very flirtatious smile "The names Temari, want to go on a date, I promise I'm real good, probably better than any girl you've had in your bed before" the blonde offered and Sakura felt her jaw dropping.
While heat seared through her at the implication of the statement, Itachi however showed astounding patience as he always did with girls that propositioned him "My apologies Temari-san but I am neither interested nor available" the Uchiha heir said as gently as possible.
"Come on let me show you a good time what's the harm in it anyway" Temari requested getting as pushy as she needed to get a date with a smoking hot guy who was just her type, she wasn't going to let him get away from her if she could help it.
Sakura left by the wayside let out a long suffering sigh "Besides the fact that you don't know how to take a hint or use your ears Temari-san, he said he was unavailable" the thirteen year old intervened just a tiny bit unnerved that another girl was flirting with Itachi right in front of her.
Itachi shot her a fond smile as amusement glinted in his obsidian irises "Whats it to you whether I flirt with him or not, your nothing just a little girl with a flat chest, unlike me I actually have assets to show off" immediately the blonde turned on her irritated for her interference.
Kakashi and Shisui shared an uh-oh look with one another while the female in question took a deep breath "That's all you can come up with calling me flat-chested wow and practically calling yourself that very mature" Sakura shook her head in disgust.
Not even bothering anymore Temari wouldn't learn unless it was browbeat into her "Gee thanks for cheering me on guys" Sasuke returned looking a little worse for wear, Sakura smiled apologetically while rifling around in her pouch for a chakra replenishing ration bar.
They weren't the tastiest things in the world but it would do the trick as the electronic match board started up again to decide on the next round opponents "Sorry Sasuke, we kind of got a little interrupted, that chicks trying to flirt with Itachi" Naruto apologized.
Gesturing to Temari from Sand who was unsuccessfully flirting with his brother, Sakura completely ignoring the girl for some reason or another "How come you got involved anyway Sakura-chan" Karin asked curiously.
Sakura raised the hand that had the bracelet on it and Karin remembered what had been admitted how Sakura was betrothed to a certain someone "You mean that's the guy your betrothed to" the crimson haired girl questioned in surprise.
A quiet nod was her answer then the second match contestants were decided on, Zaku vs Shino "Good luck I know you'll win" Sakura pat the mostly antisocial boy on the back as he passed by her, Shino gave her a small smirk before he was gone.
Down in the arena with Zaku, who was shooting her glares, clearly not liking her anymore, it was not her problem in the least, because the only person who mattered was Itachi, who was keeping his expression passive but still gently shooting the ignorant Temari down.
"Why won't you just give me a chance already damn it, I'm just as if not prettier than that pink haired brat, older as well so I just don't understand what your problem is" Temari who was growing increasingly frustrated with the repeated rejection she was being subjected to.
Itachi let out a long suffering sigh, hating to be cruel "Because I'm betrothed to Sakura, the contract states that I am not allowed to be in another relationship with a female that isn't Sakura now kindly move along and find someone else" Itachi finally stated.
Bluntly not his usual way but he felt it was the only way to get her to leave him alone, Temari reeled back as if slapped then unholy anger seared through her veins and the person she turned it on was Sakura "You little bitch you let me stand here and humiliate myself when you could have said something" then she made the most foolish mistake she could.
By swinging out her hand and it connected with Sakura's cheek, the resounding crack had the entire room going silent, even the battle going on below paused as all eyes turned to the two kunoichi "Sakura are you alright" Kakashi asked worriedly.
As the girl held her cheek in shock that she'd been the one to get slapped for absolutely no reason at all just because the older girl hadn't liked the fact she'd been rejected as nicely as possible "Oh sure pity the useless brat" Temari snorted callously.
Stomping off irritated that nothing was going her way, one brother on her heels while the remaining stayed "Forgive my sister for her brash and reckless action" Gaara rumbled in a gravely tone moving closer unsure why he felt so calm in this girls presence.
"You know Gaara your siblings are very annoying" Sakura glowered after the blonde while her hand glowed green trying to heal the crack in her cheekbone but all she managed to do was ease the pain she felt just a little bit where it wasn't overwhelming.
Gaara nodded quietly then disappeared in a swirl of sand as the fight continued now that the conflict above had been handled somewhat "Do you need a medic Sakura-chan" Shisui inquired lightly seeing the dark bruise on the girl's cheek.
Never mind that her talents in healing had improved massively it was obvious she still couldn't heal broken bones "I'm fine Shisui-san" the rosette brushed his concerns off, drawing into some sort of shell, it was not a good sign in the least in Itachi's mind.
Who made a few hand signs and in a puff of smoke Hisashi was on his arm, cawing softly at his mistress "I should have said something sooner, I'm sorry Sakura" Itachi apologized feeling as if it was his fault that she'd gotten attacked like that.
Jade irises locked with concerned obsidian, shining with unshed tears before she shook her head "Temari-san should have had the sense to take a hint long before that moment Itachi the blame is hers and hers alone" Sakura said taking Hisashi and cuddling him in her arms.
Many brows raised at this as she stroked the crow from beak to tail feathers, the creature cawing softly in content at his mistress's attentions "Of course you'd say something like that Sakura" Naruto sighed seeing how different his teammate really was.
She hadn't even gotten mad, well maybe a little bit, not like her usual, but still he had to wonder how she could do it so easily "Aren't you mad though I would have totally hit back" Karin chimed in angry on Sakura's behalf.
"Oh I'm steaming Karin-chan, believe me, but if I'd retaliated and a fight broke out that wasn't arranged I'd be the one getting disqualified, if we get paired to fight against each other though Temari is fair game for that move" Sakura scowled at the blonde.
Naruto shuddered and Sasuke opened his mouth to say something when he was smoothly interrupted by a familiar person "Like you could beat her, she's older, wiser, stronger and you, your nothing but a weakling, Team Seven probably got here by cheating" Neji scoffed.
That did it Sakura swung around "Shut up Hyuga you don't know a damn thing about me or my team, we went through the forest just as you did you self-conceited prick, got our scrolls from other teams fair and square so shut up I'm tired of your bullshit" she snarled.
Clearly done and all around her shrunk away from her except for Itachi "Kakashi do something before she tries to throttle my student" Gai slunk over to his eternal rival, eyeing the bickering duo with wariness in his gaze as the second fight came to an end.
Shino declared as the winner, Kakashi sighed and thought why me before putting a calming hand on his female students shoulder "Sakura remember what you said earlier please try and remember that alright, don't let your temper run away from you" Kakashi soothed as gently as he could.
The reaction was instantaneous as Sakura reigned in her desire to punt the arrogant Hyuga flat on his ass then she turned firmly away from Neji and continued her stroking of her crow companion to further calm herself down.
"Well done Shino, yes I was paying attention, nice idea to plug up the holes in his hands with your kikaichu" then Shino was next to her assessing the bruise on her cheek and she was chattering away to him like everything was normal.
Kakashi sweat-dropped at her mood swings while one of the Sunagakure genin took their turn against a member of their own village "By the way since when did you have a potty mouth Sakura" the silver haired Jonin seemed to remember a second later.
And Sakura went as red as an apple in response "Hehehe guess more than my temper tried to run away from me, sorry" Sakura laughed sheepishly, not sounding truly sorry because she'd wanted to say that to Neji for a long, long time.
Guess Karin's not the only one who's found her confidence in standing up to people who bash her "Can I ask what's up with the crow" Karin who was very inquisitive about everything asked itching to reach out and pet the crow herself.
"Hisashi, he was given to me by Itachi as a birthday present to be my companion" the rosette let a truly fond smile tug her lips upwards as she finally settled Hisashi on her shoulder and focused on the fight going on below.
Simultaneously ignoring the glare being cast her way by Temari "Aww that was sweet of him" the redhead squealed softly having feared for nothing that the guy Sakura was betrothed to was not a very good person.
But seeing the way he'd expressed guilt for that blonde bimbo slapping her, she knew she was wrong on her assumptions "Mhm very" Sakura nodded stroking a finger over Hisashi's beak unable to help herself, while Itachi chuckled.
Pleased with himself that he'd found something Sakura adored very much then the third round of the preliminaries was over and the electronic match board started up again, all went silent on the pairing "Meet you down there, weakling" Temari smirked viciously.
Eager to prove herself the better kunoichi "Here I don't want Hisashi-kun getting hurt" the pinkette handed her crow to Itachi again and jumped over the railing not even bothering with the stairs as she came to stand across from Temari down in the arena.
"Hold on just a minute Hokage, I thought we'd agreed to have her fight that Himekari girl" up in the balcony designated for the two Kage's that were watching over the unexpected round, Rasa was trying to persuade Hiruzen to rearrange the current match up to suit his needs.
Brown eyes focused on him "The match up wasn't me, it's random as you know and I can't control it that Sakura's opponent happened to be your daughter" Hiruzen shrugged, anticipation in his gaze as he looked to Tsunade's granddaughter.
Wondering how she'd grown since becoming a genin, Rasa sighed but relented, back down in the arena "Killing is forbidden, you fight until your opponent is incapacitated or knocked out, let the fourth match begin" Hayate informed with a cough.
Immediately both girls jumped further back away from one another "Just forfeit you don't stand a chance against me, little miss flat as a pancake" Temari snickered cruelly but Sakura remained straight faced amid her taunts and childish antics.
Then Sakura reached into her pouch "The one who is going to lose here today is you Temari" Sakura announced revealing a flash bomb and with all the force she could muster threw it down where it exploded in a bright flash of light.
Temari shut her eyes until the flash faded and rubbed her eyes seeing black dots, when she was able to focus the pinkette was practically flying at her arm cocked back and hand made into a fist, with a simple swing of her fan though it made the brat dodge allowing her to regain distance.
Unbeknownst to her though it was all a carefully crafted genjutsu and on the outside of it the real Sakura was rushing in "TEMARI DON'T JUST STAND THERE GET OUT OF THE WAY" Kankuro shouted from the balcony.
Just as Sakura reached his sister and slammed her palm into the blonde, at the pain Temari snapped out of the genjutsu and swung on reflex, Sakura managed to get out of the way in the nick of time, allowing her opponent a moment to come to terms with her surroundings.
"Little bitch when did you weave the hand signs for a bloody genjutsu" the blonde snarled irritated the younger girl had gotten to make the first move but it did show her that Sakura wasn't to be completely underestimated like she'd originally thought.
Sakura crossed her arms "Ninja's never reveal their secrets" the rosette informed focusing with all the intent she could on the seal she'd left behind on Temari who shrieked in anger and charged not liking that she was so secretive.
And right before Temari was to reach her she vanished, that feeling she associated with her apparition seal sucking her through a tube and squeezing her insides then she was behind Temari aiming a kick at the older girl.
Which sent her flying forward to land on her face with a loud echoing crunch, Temari sat up blood pouring from her nose and the bridge of her nose turning black, up above even Itachi couldn't help the wince as Sakura gently tapped her cheek signaling the broken nose was payback.
Temari stood unsteadily and snapped her nose back into place as best she could "Your going to pay for that, nobody I mean nobody gets away with hurting one of the Kazekage's children" Temari glared unfolding her fan thinking that Sakura wouldn't be able to get to her.
It was her second mistake during the fight as Sakura tossed up a kunai, not having figured out how to make the apparition seal permanent yet, Temari caught it and she had to fight to keep the smile forming on her face as the kunai was put in the blonde's pouch.
Followed by a wind jutsu being set off, "Suiton: Waterwall" Sakura flashed through hand signs and a wall of water rose up protecting her from the wind jutsu, creating a wood clone now that she wasn't visible and using a camouflage seal.
Vanishing before her protective jutsu dissipated, then she was hard pressed to get out of the way as the clone, seen by all, was made to dodge while she focused on the apparition seal on the kunai Temari had and just as her clone was shattered into a million wooden pieces.
She was aiming another kick at Temari, this time at her side and Temari went flying from her fan which clattered noisily to the floor of the stone arena, "No you weren't supposed to be able to reach me" the blonde yelled in horror.
As her fan was snapped up and held hostage "Let me tell you one thing Temari, never underestimate your opponent because it might just be the last thing you ever do, Futon: Multi-layered Gale Jutsu" the pinkette set off a massive wind jutsu.
That she was inevitably caught up in now that she wasn't able to protect herself with her fan or rebound the jutsu on Sakura, she was slammed into the arena wall harshly, but still conscious by some saving grace as she stumbled forward intent on getting her fan back one way or another.
Blood trickled from her mouth and her body felt heavy but she was nothing if not stubborn "I will never lose to a pink haired freak like you" Temari spat, breathing heavily, unfortunately Sakura wasn't in the mood to play around.
And when she got to close slammed her with the closed fan she went rolling and came to a jarring stop before forcing herself onto her feet again "Forfeit Temari, you've already lost" Sakura said, only shaking her head at the stubbornness of the blonde.
Who came after her yet again, looks like she was gonna have to bring Temari down completely otherwise the fight would never end "Never you hear….ugh damn it I wasn't supposed to lose especially not to you" the blonde doubled over suddenly.
Coughing up blood before falling flat on her back, Sakura blew out a sigh of relief "Since Temari is no longer able to continue this fight, Sakura Senju is declared the winner of the fourth match" Hayate declared and then to everyone's surprise.
Except for those that knew her, Sakura dropped the fan with a heavy bang and rushed to the fallen kunoichi's side, hands glowing a bright green, healing all the damage she could, until teal eyes cracked open as Temari regained consciousness.
"Don't thank me I just hate hurting people" the fuscia haired teenager frowned, letting the glow of medical chakra fade as the medics came rushing towards them to cart Temari away to be healed the rest of the way, fan clutched in her arms.
Then Sakura turned and trekked back up the stairs to the balcony the rest of her teammates and friends were stood on "Brutal much, did you have to nearly kill her just because she slapped you, are you that petty" Kankuro stormed over to her.
Furious emerald orbs snapped to him and he took three hasty steps back "No Kankuro, the only one who was petty was Temari, who repeatedly called me names, slapped me without provocation and if I were truly petty I wouldn't have healed her so back off" Sakura snapped.
Utterly tired of people accusing her of things, Kankuro's face behind the purple paint he wore went white and he quickly returned to his sensei's side as Itachi moved to stand behind her, letting her lean on him if she so wished "Used up a sizable amount of chakra didn't you" Itachi guessed.
Seeing the exhaustion in her eyes very clearly "Got it in one Itachi and don't you dare say anything Neji Hyuga I won fair and square" the rosette saw the Hyuga opening his mouth to say something snide no doubt and quickly cut in with a glare, his jaw snapped shut.
As the next match up was decided on "Ooh poor Ino" Naruto grimaced as Ino was chosen to fight against her former best friend Ami Himekari, inwardly wondering how the useless purple haired girl had managed to make it here to the preliminary rounds but unable to ask.
The match in the end Ino managed to win by only a hair funnily enough as she cut her hair and used it as a conduit between her and Ami to make the purple haired girl forfeit, Tenten was next and she got paired against one of the few Sunagakure genin who'd managed to pass.
Another win for a Leaf Kunoichi and Tenten rubbed her nose beaming with pride "Man the kunoichi from Konohagakure are pretty brutal" whispers had started up as a short break was allowed for many to just sit down or go freshen up for a moment.
When the break ended Naruto and Kiba were thrown headfirst against each other "Just remember nobody truly wins or loses okay, don't let your pride get in the way Kiba, and Naruto refrain from insulting him to much and no matter what happens your still my important friends" Sakura said.
Looking them both in the eye as they passed by her, wishing them luck in her own special way, so fifteen minutes later when Naruto returned the victor, Kiba let the knucklehead cheer and boast all he wanted even if his nose stung like hell.
Sakura was even kind enough to produce a vial of lavender from her pouch and rub it on her temples when he stood next to her "I wanted to go into the final rounds with you but I guess I can let Naruto win just this once" Kiba sulked pleased at her efforts.
It was like a reward in his eyes even if he hadn't won "There's always next time Kiba" the rosette gently pat his shoulder before leaning back into Itachi, he looked up at Sasuke's older brother and Itachi looked down to him before an understanding passed between them.
For Itachi pulled Sakura just a tiny bit closer, Kiba let a smile form as he meandered over to his teammates and sensei as the next match was decided on Hinata vs one of Ami's teammates, it would be an easy fight because the girl didn't know how to even fight.
Neji was after her, he got the second to last remaining genin from Sunagakure, not the redhead Gaara but soon he was on to the final round as well, the person who came after him froze, practically panicking "Relax Karin-chan you'll do fine" Naruto assured.
Gently nudging the redhead they'd taken in towards the steps "Okay breathe Karin you can do this, Sakura-chan taught you a few things at least" Karin muttered under her breath to herself, walking down the steps and into the arena stiffly, afraid for her life.
Because she wasn't really much of a fighter, neither was her opponent as she soon found out and with a punch that sent the other girl rolling she emerged the victor of her second fight since the remaining of Ami's teammates couldn't handle any pain at all.
Crimson orbs lit up and Karin practically bounced back up to the balcony "I did it Sakura-chan I won" the scarlet haired girl threw herself at Sakura who opened her arms just in time to envelop the formerly frightened girl in a bone crushing hug that Karin didn't mind a single bit.
Many people were surprised to see this scene since Leaf and Grass weren't exactly allies with one another "You did very good Karin-chan" Sakura praised, amazed by the growth Karin was making now that she'd broken free of the shackles her village had placed on her.
And while most weren't very happy a kunoichi from Konohagakure was getting chummy with a kunoichi from Kusagakure, Hiruzen looked upon the scene with knowing eyes, 'She doesn't even realize what she's doing' he chuckled to himself.
Watching as Sakura healed any injuries the young Kusagakure kunoichi had sustained further solidifying their bond, Sakura who didn't realize exactly how her actions and kindness influenced people in just the right way they became her eternal comrades.
It was like watching Hashirama all over again or even Tsunade, the girl had, had a knack for politics, with more tact than her grandfather ever had, now there was Sakura who could truly become one of the best diplomats he'd ever seen.
Next to him Rasa was silent, contemplative even, as he'd witnessed his own daughter's defeat by a girl who by all rights should have lost almost instantly to Temari due to how much training Temari had undergone, it was baffling really.
Then he was watching the next match as it was called between another Konohagakure genin, of the Nara clan vs one of the Otogakure genin Orochimaru had sent, it was another humiliating defeat and he began wondering, if the genin of Konohagakure were this strong.
Perhaps he should rethink allying himself with Orochimaru after all and so new machinations were thought up and decided upon, but he wouldn't speak a word of this to anyone for now it was best to let all think they were going through with the plan until the last minute.
Soon enough the rest of the fights had passed, one of which was gruesome, Gaara nearly crushed his opponent into little bitty pieces with his sand as the preliminary rounds finally came to an end Hiruzen stood as the final round combatants were gathered in the arena.
All fourteen of them, most were from Konohagakure barring five, two from Sunagakure, one from Otogakure and the last two from Kusagakure "Well done, you have fought spectacularly well, the final rounds will be held in a month and you'll draw lots to decide on your opponent" Hiruzen clapped.
Proud of the genin from his village, they all displayed such strong wills of fire, especially Sakura who kept the kunoichi from Kusagakure firmly at her side as they drew lots, Rasa hissed under his breath in surprise when it was decided upon that his youngest son would fight Sakura.
That was bound to be quite the fight it could go either way actually, perhaps maybe Sakura could even win, but she would have a lot of training to do in order to beat Gaara's sand, brute force wouldn't get her very far like it had with Temari.
Hiruzen breathed out a sigh of relief that the preliminary rounds were over and went to turn Kazekage at his side when a certain someone called out to him "Hokage-sama" Sakura ran up to them, emerald orbs sporting a determined gleam within their depths.
Beside her was Karin who fidgeted nervously as the Hokage faced them, a single brow raised in askance of what they wanted "This is Karin…Naruto, Sasuke and I met her in the Forest, and her village is torturing her" Sakura admitted with a thunderous expression.
Karin shrunk back, hiding behind the person who'd saved her basically "How do you figure that Sakura, Karin-san is what she said true, is your village torturing you" the Hokage questioned in a serious tone of voice at least he wasn't taking the accusation lightly.
"Um yes…I uh have a special ability th..that if you bite me and suck out my chakra y..you can be healed, b..but they use it against my will" Karin stuttered horrendously but managed to tell the truth while trembling as well.
Holding her breath afraid that the Hokage was going to say that he couldn't help her "And tell me what is it you'd like me to do Karin-san" Hiruzen inquired curiously having an inkling but wanting her to ask so he could get started on it.
She squared her shoulders and straightened "I want to transfer to Hidden Leaf, because I know if I go back to Hidden Grass they might actually kill me this time" the redhead jutted out her chin, crimson orbs gleaming with defiance towards her current village.
In the next moment Karin shrunk back once again at the intense stare and hid behind Sakura, Sakura was safe to her after all "Well then Karin-san I'll start negotiations for now stay with Sakura, it's for your own safety I fear" Hiruzen smiled lightly.
Then both Kage's were gone, leaving them alone "See told you Hokage-sama was kind, now what do you say to getting your stuff from the hotel and meeting my parents, they'll adore you" Sakura grinned grabbing Karin's hand and focusing on her seal.
Seeing as nobody had waited for them and after a couple of minutes they were gone as well stood beside Sasuke who jumped a foot in the air with a scream "KAMI don't do that, I hate it when you show up unexpectedly like that" Sasuke put a hand over his heart obviously frightened.
"Come to think of it Kakashi, when did you teach your student how to body flicker like that, I thought only Shisui was able to body flicker without the traditional smoke that's affiliated with the technique" Gai asked and all eyes turned to him.
Before shifting to Sakura who wore her most innocent smile, while Kakashi avoided the imploring stares "Any-who Team Seven meet me on the bridge tomorrow I'll tell you who you'll be training with for the month then" Kakashi announced then disappeared in a plume of smoke.
Leaving Sakura to handle the questions being asked "Ninja's never reveal their secrets" the rosette recited not wanting everyone to know about her seal just yet as it was her ace in the hole, then turned on her heel and vanished just as quickly as her sensei had, tugging Karin along with her.
Down the streets to the redhead's hotel that she'd been staying at with her teammates and sensei "Come to collect her stuff I see" Shigeri, the only other Kusagakure genin who'd made it through to the final rounds and was Karin's opponent, commented at their appearance.
Jade eyes narrowed "You aren't going to stand in our way are you" Sakura inquired remaining civil for the time being, Shigeri paled a little but shook his head, he even went so far as to lead them to Karin's room so she could get her things.
Then both kunoichi were gone, just disappearing "Wow this is your house Sakura-chan" Karin gasped in awe when they landed before a beautiful three storied house, white picket fence wrapped around the front, complete with gate and flora planted within the yard.
Making it look like a scene straight out of a story book or a fairy tale, that's how she saw it anyway "Mhm, me, my mom, my dad, little sister, unofficial bodyguard, plus a chunin all live here" the pinkette ticked off her fingers opening the gate as she did so.
Leading her down the path up to the house which was even bigger up close before Sakura could open the door Hisashi swooped down and perched on her shoulder "How exactly did Itachi-san train him to do that" the scarlet haired girl looked intrigued.
"No idea, anyway ready to meet my family" Sakura inquired, Karin nodded hesitantly as she twisted the doorknob admitting them into the large house and immediately a certain six year old barreled into her with a loud ear-splitting squeal.
Blue eyes bright and full of excitement "ONEE-CHAN YOUR HOME" Hanami shouted at the top of her lungs as if she didn't know she didn't have to and her sister could hear her just fine, but Sakura bent and scooped the little girl into her arms.
Peridot orbs filled with an inner light and Karin watched as Sakura greeted her little sister with the warmest smile ever "Yep, sorry it took so long that important thing Nee-chan was busy with kept me held up for quite a bit, Mom, Dad, this is Karin-chan" the rosette explained gently.
Greeting her parents casually and introducing the redhead at her side all in the same breath "Another one brat, just how many people are you going to save" Zabuza grunted from the couch he was usually perched on, earning a light eye roll.
And a giggle from the brat he'd kept a constant vigilant watch over the last several days "Zabuza you should know Sakura by now, it's in her nature, she can't help it anymore than you can help being a grouch sometimes" Haku smiled innocently.
Zabuza glowered at his mouthy apprentice but the brat wasn't paying him a lick of attention, while Sakura outright laughed at their antics "So why did you bring Karin-chan along with you Sakura-chan" Mebuki was the one to ask surprisingly.
Just a little tiny bit suspicious as Karin became visibly nervous, she shot a look to Sakura for help, and the girl nodded lightly "B..Because I'm gonna transfer here to Leaf and Hokage-sama said for me to stay with Sakura-chan" Karin managed to get out.
Two sets of brown eyes narrowed "Are you running away from your village, that's treason you know Karin-san" the fifteen year old that Sakura had told her was a chunin, informed gently, Karin shook all the harder in fear.
Until there was a soothing hand on her arm "Haku…Karin has a gift that they were using to practically torture her in a sense, she's been through a lot as I know you understand, so don't be hard on her okay" Sakura chided gently not being to harsh.
"Poor Karin-chan, if Hokage-sama thinks it's best you stay here, you can stay but you'll have to share with Sakura-chan" Kizashi relented instantly while Haku bore heartache in his gaze for another person who'd been through hardships just because she had a special gift.
Whether it was a kekkeigenkai he didn't know since Sakura hadn't really explained but what she had was enough to make him feel for Karin "Won't your parents worry for you sweetie, you can't just decide to transfer on your own" Mebuki scolded not convinced just yet.
"Unless Karin-chan's an orphan Mom, which she is, they killed her mother, who had the same special gift and that's Karin-chan's right to tell anyone what it is" her oldest interrupted yet again to her mother's horror.
Before the woman finally deflated "Very well, I'm sorry Karin, it's just with the recent attempts to abduct myself and Hanami, I'm just a little wary of any one new coming into my house" Mebuki apologized and got a nervous smile in response.
Then Sakura tugged Karin along gently up the stairs to the second floor and into her bedroom "Did whoever use to live here before do that on the walls Sakura-chan" the redhead inquired seeing all the murals painted on the walls of Sakura's bedroom.
Sakura who shook her head with a giggle "Nope I did that and we're the only ones who've ever lived here before since the house was built specifically for my family and myself" Sakura grinned removing every little weapon or pouch from her person.
And flopping down on her bed to finally relax, Hisashi flying to his perch with a soft caw "So um Sakura-chan, Sasuke said that you, him and Naruto were unique to, does that mean all of you have special gifts like I do, I know about his sharingan but what about Naruto or you" Karin asked.
Hesitantly sitting on the edge of Sakura's bed as she did so, Sakura sat up immediately "Well I don't know about Naruto, he could have a unique gift to himself, but right now he's just a massive dork, Sasuke and I however have kekkeigenkai" the pinkette admitted.
Feeling it was only fair since Karin had told them about her gift, so stood, grabbing the other girls hand as she did so, glad that she'd regained some chakra since way earlier "I'll show you but I'll ask that you keep mine secret just as I'm doing yours" Sakura whispered.
Leading the way up to the third floor and into a massive training room, the minute the door shut, a barrier rose and privacy seals were activated "Okay Sakura-chan what is it" the crimson haired girl frowned not liking how secretive they were suddenly being.
Imagine her surprise when wooden wings burst out of her friends back and the girl took flight "The kekkeigenkai is called Mokuton or Wood Release, our First Hokage had it, he's my great, great grandfather and only one other person besides me has it" the rosette explained.
Fluttering about for a moment then touching down "So it's really, really rare is that why you don't tell many people" Karin grimaced as the wooden wings detached and molded into something else, a wooden sword and shield.
"Pretty much, plus right now it's way, way dangerous, what with a certain snake sannin slithering about in the Leaf Village" Sakura scowled, thankfully though, Naruto and Sasuke hadn't nor would they ever breathe a word of her ability.
While Karin paled having heard of the three legendary sannin herself as the barrier lowered and the privacy seal was deactivated they then returned to Sakura's bedroom where a second bed was set up and Karin unpacked her things, before long they were called down for dinner and afterwards they went to bed tired after a long day.
And after breakfast the next morning Karin trailed after Sakura to her team meeting "Don't worry Karin-chan, I'll find you a trainer, I promise" the pinkette vowed as they leaned against the railing of the bridge her team always met on.
"Thanks Sakura-chan, I really want to prove myself you know" the scarlet haired preteen commented missing how Sakura straightened minutely at the verbal tick that had just slipped from her lips or how emerald orbs widened in realization.
Before finally a smile so fond "Um Sakura-chan what's go you so happy" Naruto chose that moment to show up looking well rested for once, well since the survival round had started anyway, none of them had slept very well in the forest or in the tower with to many unknown's milling about.
Sakura smiled and Naruto interpreted it as her I know something you don't know smile before she wrapped her arm around Karin's shoulders "Just something I'm sure you'll find out here soon" Sakura snickered emerald orbs sparkling with full-blown happiness.
Naruto tilted his head to the side but she shook her head in response keeping whatever she knew a secret for now just as Sasuke jogged up to them "Kakashi's not here yet for the love of kami why does he do this to us, but good morning, to you as well Karin" Sasuke grunted in frustration.
Of course their sensei would be late, why did he think the man had changed just because Kakashi had arrived on time once the entire time he'd been their sensei, his brow twitched at that while Sakura and Naruto patted him solemnly on the shoulders.
Clearly trying not to burst out laughing as his preconceived notion was shattered "Good morning Sasuke, to you as well Naruto" Karin waved feeling comfortable around the three genin who'd changed her life completely in the span of only four days.
The blonde grinned and waved back before settling against the railing to wait, and wait to Karin's surprise as not one but three hours past until Team Seven's sensei finally showed up "Yo sorry I'm late there was a black cat in my path so I had to go around him" Kakashi spewed his usual.
While Sakura rolled her eyes upwards in annoyance "Cut to the chase Kakashi-sensei cause we all know you're lying and were actually paying tribute to the memorial stone for KIA/MIA shinobi, just tell us who our sensei's are for the month already" the rosette huffed.
Kakashi shot her a wide-eyed stare before seeming to sulk "Mean, oh well, Naruto, Master Jiraiya has offered to train you, Sasuke I'm your trainer and Sakura-chan, Kushina-san has offered" the silver haired Jonin straightened telling his students what they wanted.
Except for the redhead who was glued to Sakura's side "Right guess I'll see you guys in a month" the second Uchiha heir sighed grudgingly heading towards his sensei though inwardly surprised that the man was going to teach him.
With that the duo was gone "Well that's just great, now I have to go find where that damn perverts run off to, probably a ladies hot spring or something" the blonde Uzumaki grimaced heading off to find his godfather who'd he'd only met a few times since the man was so busy.
But clearly remembering the man was a pervert "Let's go find that Kushina-san person your sensei was talking about" the redhead turned to the remaining person and the two of them bounded off to find Kushina.
Who was waiting for Sakura at her home, Minato was there as well, he was surprised at the extra guest "I didn't think that you'd be bringing along a friend Sakura-chan" Minato raised a sunshine colored brow on the young girl who was coming into her own.
"Ah Karin-chan these are Naruto's parents, Kushina-san and Minato-san, the Fourth Hokage, and yep cause it's not safe for her to be on her own" Sakura grinned, before adding that last little bit in the most serious tone they'd ever heard from her.
"Plus I was kind of hoping Kushina-san that you'd train her instead of me, I have a feeling Karin will be good at fuinjutsu if you teach it to her" the rosette continued, having an inkling that she knew exactly what clan her new friend was descended from.
It would definitely not be a shocker if she was right, Uzumaki's seemed to pop up in the least expected places "But Sakura-chan I really wanted to teach you, I mean your opponent is a jinchuuriki for kami's sake….oops I wasn't supposed to say that" Kushina sulked.
Blurting out the unknown secret "Jinchuuriki…you mean to say that there's a tailed beast sealed inside of Gaara" Sakura caught on immediately "How cruel, no wonder he's so unstable, the seal must not have been made right" then sympathy for the suffering the redhead had gone through.
Minato shook his head of course they should have known Sakura would react or even say something like that "Yes Sakura-chan, just like Naruto-kun and myself" his wife continued hesitantly a little more willing to reveal her own secret.
Now that Sakura wasn't outright rejecting her or Naruto and Karin didn't have a single clue as to what they were talking about given the expression of confusion that she was sporting "If you really want I can train the both of you separately in fuinjutsu" the violet eyed woman offered.
Seeing as Sakura wouldn't relent on her request "Thanks Kushina-san and for what it counts if I'd known I probably wouldn't have let so many people get away with bullying Naruto the way they did when we were younger" Sakura lowered her gaze, guilt eating at her.
For past transgressions against Naruto that she could have prevented probably "There, there Sakura-chan it wasn't your fault nor your responsibility, now Karin-san why don't you tell us why it is you can't be left on your own" the blonde assured before shifting his gaze onto Karin.
Who jumped and hid behind Sakura a knee jerk reaction that she couldn't help, Sakura reached back and patted Karin on the hand, silently communicating that it was alright and that she could tell then Karin came to stand at her side again, shoulders square.
"I have a special gift that if someone bites me and sucks out my chakra you can be healed, the people back in Hidden Grass have been doing that since I was seven" Karin announced still afraid that someone was going to try and test it now that she'd told the truth.
But neither adult made a move only stared in horror and sympathy "One last question Karin-chan, the way you've talked it sounds like you haven't always lived in Kusagakure, so before that where did you live" the pinkette prodded suddenly.
And Karin creased her brow in confusion only to dutifully answer "My mom said that we traveled a lot because the land from which we came was destroyed Uzushio or something I think she said it was" the ruby haired girl explained.
The reaction was immediate as Kushina covered her mouth tears shining in her violet eyes "Th..That's why you thought Karin-chan would…oh kami I had no idea, if I had I would have marched straight to Kusagakure and saved you" Kushina babbled.
Sakura winced feeling guilty for upsetting the woman until Minato pressed his hand down on her shoulder "Don't, Kushina-chan is happy, thank you Sakura" Minato saw the guilt in her gaze and shook his head, thanking the girl instead.
Because Kushina now had a connection to her almost extinct clan, Karin was practically a godsend as his wife rushed the young girl and enveloped Karin in her arms, bright and vibrant and most of all happy.
Upon seeing this Sakura breathed a sigh of relief "Oh I'm sorry nearly forgot, right so I'll train you both separately, two hours each day at different times of the day" the older redhead giggled sheepishly as she reigned in her excitement at seeing another Uzumaki besides her son.
"That's fine Kushina-san, but I'll warn you I've never used fuinjutsu before and I'm not much of a fighter either" Karin nodded in acceptance liking the schedule that was being devised, all she wanted was to prove herself and then cut all ties with Kusagakure for good.
Kushina stared in horror at the admittance "Poor dear, I'll have you up to par just you wait and see Karin-chan, hope you don't mind Sakura-chan but I want to give Karin-chan first lesson now, in the mean time you can study this book" Kushina pouted.
Violet eyes boring into emerald not like she really had to beg or anything, Sakura was way to understanding sometimes "If you don't mind then Kushina-chan, I'll snag Sakura-chan for some training of my own" Minato smiled suddenly.
As he remembered what his son had told him, Sakura eyed him warily but he didn't let her refuse, merely placed his hand down on her shoulder and whisked her away to an unused training ground "Uh Minato-san this is strange" Sakura commented.
Just a tiny bit wary of the former Hokage "Not really if you think about it Sakura, remember you used me as a test subject for your genjutsu, anyway I believe I may be able to help you with a certain seal of yours, Naruto told me about it" the blonde chuckled.
Sakura pursed her lips in consideration "Your probably right, I just don't understand why it takes so much concentration in order to transport to a seal and I can only get one use out of it before the seal fades" the rosette relented after a moment.
Producing the scroll that she'd written her apparition seal formula on from her pouch, carrying it everywhere she went to prevent someone from stealing it, yes she was that paranoid "Hmm interesting formula" Minato mused to himself as he looked the scroll over.
"I named it the apparition seal, when used it feels like I'm being sucked through a tube or something, it's really weird but doesn't have any side affects" Sakura explained already trying to think up ways to improve her seal.
While Minato checked it over, it was surprisingly well made but he could spot the flaws, he was sure there had been many in the beginning now there was only a few, the biggest one was the reason Sakura had to concentrate so hard in order to teleport to it.
A quick adjustment of the formula was made on another scroll then he returned it to her "Mark something then try and focus on it, you'll find it's easier to transport now" the former Hokage instructed, taking his offer to train her seriously.
Especially if she was going to go up against a Jinchuuriki "Alright Minato-san" the pinkette nodded, always so eager as she memorized her newly improved seal, then she placed her hand down on a rock and went a short distance away from it.
This time after only a couple of seconds she was gone and back right next to the rock, unfortunately her body wasn't able to keep up with the new speed in which she was able to transport because almost instantly she tripped over the rock she'd marked.
Falling flat on her face "Oooh you'll just have to keep practicing in order to stick your landings properly, do that throughout this first week then I'll teach you how to make the seal permanent once you've marked something" Minato winced lightly before setting a goal for her to work on.
"Right thank you Minato-san um just let me know when Kushina-san is ready for me" Sakura waved him off looking determined, Minato chuckled softly and used his own seal to get home, he found his wife and Karin in the midst of a very extensive fuinjutsu lecture.
Karin's crimson orbs bright with excitement "I hope for your sake Minato-kun you didn't abandon Sakura-chan" Kushina noticed his return immediately upon him setting foot in the house, it was a little eerie how she could do that sometimes.
"Not at all, I've given her a goal to work towards and once she completes it I'll teach her something else" the blonde smiled his signature sunshiny smile that had Kushina melting at the sight of it before she focused her attention on Karin again.
In this manner two hours flew by "Sorry if it was a bit much Karin-chan for your first lecture but we've only got a month to teach you all the essentials for now, if you don't mind fetching Sakura-chan though Minato-kun that would be great" the violet eyed woman apologized lightly.
Understanding the pains of having to much knowledge crammed into the cranium, Karin looked like she had a massive headache from all she'd learned as Minato went off to fetch Sakura, and five minutes later the two of them were back.
"Still I never even knew that I was an Uzumaki, what made you suspect in the first place Sakura-chan" Karin asked before she started making her way home, how funny it was that she already considered Sakura's house her home.
Sakura who grinned "You said the famous verbal tick, Kushina-san and Naruto have patented the you know since for as long as I can remember, you probably didn't even realize it huh" Sakura admitted and Karin ducked her head sheepishly.
Then with a wooden clone on her heels she was escorted back to the house leaving Sakura to sit and listen to an extensive lecture on advanced seals until her head hurt to and it was only noon, so Sakura returned to the house ready to eat lunch.
Very few people were home, "Your parents had to leave for a business venture, I attempted to cook but as you can see I'm hopeless" Haku was one of the few, and he'd tried to make lunch for them only to fail spectacularly.
And to Karin's surprise Sakura jumped in and whipped up a delicious afternoon meal "By the way Haku will you help with my training, I need to learn how to dodge at a higher level than I already can" the pinkette requested when the three of them dug in.
Hanami off to play with Kimiko and Zabuza trailing Mebuki "Are you sure you know what your asking Sakura" the fifteen year old frowned not wanting to use his kekkeigenkai unless she knew what she was getting into.
"I know, it's dangerous, probably not the best method but I don't want a single soul outside the two of us, sorry Karin-chan, to know how I increased my evasion skills" Sakura intoned stubbornly and Karin didn't say a single word about how she was being exempted.
She understood she couldn't know all of how Sakura trained otherwise if they got paired against each other Sakura might be at a disadvantage "Okay very well then Sakura" Haku relented knowing she wouldn't back down no matter what he said.
Once she got something in her head it was stuck there and she'd go through with it, the minute they were done with lunch, they, minus Karin, who went to her shared bedroom with Sakura, went up to the training room and a barrier rose to prevent anyone from barging in.
It seemed Sakura was very serious about this as the entire room was emptied of all training equipment and water was spilled for him to create his crystal ice mirrors that surrounded Sakura "Don't go easy on me alright Haku" the rosette requested.
Emerald eyes burning with determination "As you wish Sakura" the ebony haired teenager pressed his lips together already launching his first attack, going from mirror to mirror at high speeds as Sakura tried to keep up.
By the end of the training session, Sakura was bleeding from multiple scratches, "Well at least I know where to start" Sakura huffed, hands glowing green as she sat in the middle of the training room to heal herself of her injuries.
"And you'll only get better from here on" Haku commented having watched the way in which Sakura had slowly improved until he'd gone just a little to fast for her, only then had she really stopped being able to dodge.
When she was done healing herself Sakura popped up as if she hadn't just had an extensive training session that required her to dodge for her life, lowered the barrier and skipped off to take a shower, Haku shaking his head at her all the while until the day ended.
From then on the days were nearly on repeat, Sakura switched her training up day to day though, not coming to him for evasion training always until a week had gone by "My apologies for not stopping by sooner Sakura" Itachi showed up on the day he turned eighteen.
"Nah it's okay Itachi, been busy training, really hard, but happy birthday, it's an alexandrite gem necklace, the gem matches my eyes don't you think, I thought it could remind you of me if you were ever away on a mission like Hisashi reminds me of you" Sakura rambled.
While presenting the necklace she'd worked on for the better part of several weeks in lieu of Itachi's upcoming birthday, face red and unable to look the eighteen year old in the eyes, this was much different than giving a necklace to her sister for sure.
Itachi took the necklace with gentle hands to look it over, it was in the shape of a teardrop and exactly the same shade as Sakura's eyes "Would you help me put it on" the eighteen year old requested interrupting her embarrassed babbling, even though it was cute.
Sakura nervously took the necklace back and waited as he bent down for her to clasp the necklace around his neck complete with shaky hands "There you go Itachi" the rosette exclaimed in a breathy whisper face entirely red now.
He chuckled softly and stood "I'll wear it, always, thank you Sakura" Itachi nodded in acceptance of his gift then boldly swooped down to kiss her cheek, as close to her mouth as he dared without seeming indecent or like he was some kind of cradle robber.
She squeaked, went redder than he'd ever seen her turn before then promptly tripped and fell on her behind "I uh you I mean….." then Sakura went silent just sitting there face red unable to even look at him to his utter amusement.
"Don't worry Sakura I won't kiss you properly until your really ready for it" the Uchiha heir held out a hand to his silent betrothed, not afraid that he'd scared her of or anything, she was just young and not use to such attentions as he kept the pace moderately slow for her.
Another squeak came from the girl but she did take his hand and let him help her up "Anyway Minato-san's probably waiting, hope the rest of your day goes well" the pinkette looked to him just once then was gone using her apparition seal to escape in a way.
When she appeared on the training grounds she never expected to see Minato in a rather heated argument with the Kazekage of all people, who everyone had thought left to return to his own village until the Final Rounds.
Minato's gaze snapped to her upon her arrival though "Just a minute Sakura, the Kazekage and I are discussing a very serious matter" Minato looked the angriest she'd ever seen him so Sakura turned on her heel and went to walk away leaving him alone.
Until the Kazekage called out to her "The girl probably already knows Minato, that Orochimaru has infiltrated the Leaf Village to destroy it and all of it's going to happen during her fight with Gaara" Rasa snapped frustrated he couldn't get anyone to listen to him.
Sakura went white with fear so much for a good day she thought with a sigh as Minato beckoned her towards them reluctantly "Sakura I know you've been training ridiculously hard, Karin told us how you come down with countless scratches from training with Haku" the blonde began.
Trailing off unsure of how to really tell her "But you want me to forfeit my match" Sakura finished for him Minato deflated as he nodded, she blew out a breath, while Rasa glowered things were not turning out how he wanted.
"However Minato-san as much as you want me to relent to your demand, I can't, Kushina-san said it herself, Gaara's a Jinchuuriki an unstable one at that, and if I don't do it then countless people could get hurt" then the rosette crossed her arms, chin jutted out in defiance.
Minato was showing the same anger he'd showed the day they'd all returned from their first outside the village mission, a second later it was like the fight left him "It's to dangerous" he argued not liking he couldn't convince her to forfeit.
"I'm well aware of that but Minato-san I'm also an extremely cautious person, I never go into a fight without several backup plans" Sakura grinned not so much in confidence really but more to help him come to terms with her decision.
He really hated the fact that he couldn't change her mind now "Now we're getting somewhere, there's one other thing I feel I must tell you, Orochimaru wants you girl, he said you used the First Hokage's wood style kekkeigenkai" Rasa interrupted yet again.
While Sakura frowned as far as she knew she hadn't blatantly showed off her ability to anyone outside those that knew, she always had a privacy barrier raised when she trained with it and no one knew what she'd done during her fight against Temari.
"And how exactly does Orochimaru know I have a kekkeigenkai in the first place when I never show off" the pinkette narrowed her eyes on the Kazekage having always been suspicious of him and she had every reason to be given the circumstances.
Though she didn't understand why he was having a change of heart, one couldn't look a gift horse in the mouth "During your match with my daughter he said that you created a wood clone" Rasa informed not having seen it himself.
Sakura was more than a little confused "Impossible, I was hiding behind a wall of water, there's absolutely no way…..unless he was watching from the balcony disguised as a sensei" Sakura trailed off in realization and Rasa nodded grimly in answer.
"Oh Sakura you really are the most complex person known to man I think" Minato sighed feeling oddly exhausted and it was only eight o'clock in the morning, signaling she'd arrived a little earlier than he'd expected, way different than Kakashi for sure.
Who he hoped never rubbed off on the girl, or rather his tardy tendencies that drove everyone up the wall "Uh sorry anyway I guess there's no real point in trying to hide it anymore which sucks stupid Orochimaru why did he have to come" the fuscia haired teen grumbled.
Drawing a chuckle from him "So you really do have the kekkeigenkai then, are you sure you aren't some kind of experiment that Orochimaru created with Hashirama's cells, he told me all he's done" Rasa frowned not liking the turn of events.
Minato nodded when she looked to him then wood sprouted up from the ground "And no I'm not an experiment thank you very much Kazekage-sama, I have a mother and a father, who gave birth to me" Sakura sniffed still being polite even if the Kazekage really rankled her for some reason.
"Well if your going to stand against Gaara then you need to learn how to dodge lethal sand girl, I'm your best choice for that, is there a place that you consider safe and away from prying eyes, I'd rather not let anyone know I'm here, Orochimaru thinks I'm dead" Rasa offered/informed.
Completely stunning Sakura and Minato with his offer "Can you tell me why you've changed all of a sudden, if you allied yourself with Orochimaru, unless this is your way of trying to get close to betray us" Minato was more than a little wary a moment later.
Until Rasa raised his hand to placate him "The match between my daughter and Senju-san made me realize what a mistake I was making, I have a long way to go to truly changing my views in certain ways, but I'm trying to make it up now even if it might be to late" Rasa sighed.
Sakura sighed as well "To be fair I don't really like conflict, I absolutely hate it, but I'm not afraid to stand up for what's right, I accept Kazekage-sama, just know however that I intend on continuing to train with my other trainers as well" the rosette announced.
Minato choked on a laugh "Very well I'll trust your instincts Sakura, now show me that you've managed to stick your landings properly" the blonde relented knowing she wouldn't accept if she really thought the guy was an enemy of theirs.
The girl grinned, tapped his arm with her hand and disappeared to reappear next to a rock that was already pre-marked, not a stumble then she was back in front of him, pride blazing in her eyes that she'd accomplished the goal he'd set for her.
Now her only problem lay with keeping the seal permanent once she'd marked something "Can I ask what that is, it's not the flying thunder god technique is it" Rasa inquired about as curious as every other redhead that she knew.
With a quick look to Minato who nodded seeing as there was no harm in it Sakura explained "Nope, that's the apparition seal I created about a month after I became a genin, before though I had to really concentrate to transport from seal to seal" Sakura informed brightly.
Becoming a regular ole chatterbox to the Kazekage's surprise "Here Sakura, when you mark something infuse a little more chakra into the seal then it should stick longer and probably become permanent" Minato announced figuring out one of the two remaining flaws.
He also held out his arm for her, Sakura tapped his arm, infusing a little more chakra into her seal then bounded off to do the same thing to another more random object like the rock again "Never been around exuberant children have you" the former Hokage chuckled.
Watching as Sakura transported between him and the rock three times in a row before the seal faded to her frustration "Can you tell me how exactly she grew up like that in the first place" the redhead scowled lightly.
"Your guess is as good as mine, from the moment I met her at age five, she blew away all expectations one has for normal five year old's" Minato deadpanned still slightly miffed about that one time but that was besides the point.
As Sakura growled in frustration then she took a deep breath trying to think logically "What was so different about her that you consider her not exactly normal" Rasa frowned, brow raised as the girl lost her temper and punched a rock.
It shattered into large pieces "Cautious to a fault, wouldn't talk about her kekkeigenkai unless she had permission, then how she managed to change the whole village, the Uchiha were under a lot of suspicion, Sakura set everyone straight" the blonde stated.
Remembering many other little things until Sakura marched towards them "There's another flaw in the formula somewhere I know it, even though now I can get three good uses out of it" Sakura huffed obviously done being frustrated and trying to figure it out on her own.
Just as he expected "Mm I think it was here, adjust the formula a little bit, like so and I think that's it" Minato changed the formula a little bit again, still keeping it her own but with his guiding hand now she had her own seal to.
Which was immediately tested out again and after three times the apparition seal stayed in place, merging with his skin and fading from sight but still there he could feel it strangely enough "Now are you ready to see how you fair against my gold dust" Rasa questioned.
Already at the ready, Sakura paled at the sight of his lethal weapon but nodded determinedly while Minato wanted to object whole-heartedly because for the next hour Sakura had to literal dodge for her life, she did well but she was captured many, many times.
Until she couldn't move another muscle then it was off to her extensive fuinjutsu lesson, followed by more evasion training with Haku and by the end of the day her muscles screamed murder at her, she could hear them practically begging her to let them rest so that's what she did.
In the middle of their second week Sakura ran head first into a horrific situation "S..Sakura-chan he's no..not dead is he" the girl at her side was hesitant to ask, they'd been in the library until late but they hadn't expected to stumble across something like this.
"I don't know Karin-chan but we have to help him" the rosette said sporting a suddenly determined look in her eyes as she marched forward, sending off a wooden clone to the hospital as she did so, still extremely wary but they had to inform the medics.
Then she bent at the fallen shinobi's side and pressed her fingers to his wrist "He still has a pulse, hang on Hayate-sensei I won't let you die" Sakura vowed hands glowing a more vibrant green than ever before as she pressed them to Hayate's chest wound.
But as much as she'd improved all she was truly able to do was staunch the bleeding "Why not sew his flesh back together" Karin made the suggestion, easily producing needle and thread for Sakura's use after threading the needle of course and disinfecting it.
Having taken after Sakura of course to become a true medic not wanting to rely on her gift ever again, Sakura swallowed thickly but carefully stitched up the wound without instruction from anyone, Hayate made sounds of pain during this process and she winced at every single one.
Until medics from the hospital arrived, barking orders and Hayate was taken away on a stretcher, later on, the next day actually she was called to the hospital along with Karin and they were thanked profusely by the staff for what they'd done had saved Hayate's life.
And for the remaining two weeks before the final round, she formulated several fool proof plans and made absolutely sure her carefully crafted seals would hold up during her fight with Gaara until it was finally the day of.
"I don't know Sakura-chan, I have a really bad feeling" Karin frowned as she watched Sakura load herself down with weapons, armor to, to her surprise in a kimono that was meant for fighting but still she was unsure.
Emerald orbs locked with crimson "Me to Karin-chan but I can't chicken out my fight against Gaara is to important, I have to win no matter what" Sakura announced seriously, triple checking herself to make sure she had everything then with Karin in tow made her way to the arena.