Witchblade Sakura

by Kanius

Haruno Sakura is told of an ancient artifact by Chiyo. This mysterious item, called the Witchblade, seeks a new wielder: Sakura. It's up to her to use it in the battles against the Akatsuki, the Cloneblades, and the Darkness. Indefinite hiatus.

21. Back in Konoha Village! An Interlude!

Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto or Witchblade. Naruto is a manga property of Masashi Kishimoto. Witchblade is a comic property of Top Cow Productions.

Summary: An interlude chapter bridging a transition between the Uchiha Ghost arc and the Zombie Duo arc. Dark Sakura theme. Couplings: Potentially NaruSaku, but with subtle NaruHina and SasuSaku scenes.

A/N: The Uchiha Ghost arc is finally behind us and we're moving along to a brand new arc! But, first, here's an interlude/filler chapter to tide you over. Ok, I'd wager to say that it's half filler/half canon. But, there will be stuff going on. Yes, stuff.

Anyhow, enjoy the chapter.

xxxxx

Chapter 21

Back in Konoha Village! A Short Interlude!

xxxxx

Hokage Office/Konohagakure/Fire Country

It was two days since Team Kakashi departed the Uchiha feudal lands. As soon as they returned to the village, they reported back to the Fifth Hokage immediately.

Sakura walked forward to present Tsunade the journal that they picked up. The Fifth opened Madara's journal as she, too, looked at the written contents with a perplexed look.

"These inscriptions… I've seen this form of writing before," Tsunade stated as she set the journal on her desk. "It's usually used to conceal messages so only Braille code breakers can comprehend the messages. Unfortunately, I can't decipher these codes."

Naruto folded his arms, staring at the written Braille codes. "Well, is there anyone can read these codes? If you can't do it, Granny Tsunade… who then?"

"Sakura," The Fifth Hokage addressed to her pink-haired apprentice. "Would you take this journal over to the Konoha Cryptology Unit. There's that one girl there who can decipher even the most advanced codes."

"Shiho?" Sakura said. "Oh, yeah! That's right!"

"Can she crack this Braille code?" Naruto inquired.

"We'll just have to wait and see. So, once these codes are deciphered, we'll be able to determine whether Madara is in fact still alive."

"About that. I can say that he is very much alive," Sakura quickly replied.

Shizune blinked in confusion. "How can you possibly know that, Sakura?"

"Because… I… I had another vision. The Witchblade presented me with another vision. I even saw other people with him."

Both Tsunade and Shizune were taken back by surprise. They waited as Sakura tried to explain how the vision went down in full detail. They would never have taken into account that Sakura's Witchblade would confirm Madara's existence.

"The Witchblade presented you with more visions? This time involving Uchiha Madara. If this is true…"

"It is, Tsunade-sama!" Sakura spoke up. "I actually was there… well not really there, but the scenery it looked so real. I could hear everything that Madara and his two followers. One of them was a man named Pein. He had orange, kinda spiky hair and strange spiral-looking eyes. I'm not sure if they appeared to be some kind of Kekkei Genkai eye trait. I looked nothing like the Sharingan or the Byakugan."

"What else did you see?" Shizune asked.

"Along with that man was a blue-haired woman with a white flower in her hair. They both wore the Akatsuki cloaks. Madara wore one. This pretty much sums it all up. They're a part of the Akatsuki!"

"What you saw was a vision though. There's still no proof that Madara is alive or if he's involved with the Akatsuki."

"What about that last vision I told you all about? The night of the Uchiha massacre? I saw Madara in it, too!" Sakura tried to convince Tsunade. "Don't tell me that you don't believe me!"

Tsunade sighed as she got up from her chair. "I wish I could, but we can't do anything without knowing the whereabouts of our enemies. However, if there is anything in this journal that the Cryptology Unit can decipher, we'll act as quickly as we can."

Yamato nodded. "For now though, I think we should get some rest. We did just get back from our mission."

"Right. Be sure to write a report for me, Yamato," Tsunade instructed. "The rest of you are dismissed. Oh, wait… except for you, Sakura. Remain here."

"What? You mean we can't stay?" Naruto scoffed.

"I still need to speak with Sakura. This is something only she and I can discuss. You're dismissed, Naruto."

As Naruto faced Sakura, he faintly smiled toward her. "See you later then, Sakura-chan."

"Yeah, later," she said.

As Naruto, Yamato, and Sai left the room, only the Fifth Hokage, Sakura, and Shizune were left. However, even Shizune was dismissed as Tsunade instructed her to leave. Once Shizune walked out, only Tsunade and Sakura occupied the Hokage office.

Sakura stood at the center of the room as Tsunade checked the girl's right arm. As the Fifth tapped the Witchblade bracelet, she carefully examined the red gem embedded in the artifact.

"So, tell me. Did you really use the Witchblade to feed off those spirits? The Witchblade actually has that ability?"

"Yeah, I'm sorry if I went against you and Kakashi-sensei's orders, but I can't fully master control of the Witchblade. It was hungry. It needed to feed and those corrupted spirits were what the Witchblade required for subsistence. The Witchblade's instincts are too much for me to restrain… once it puts its mind to something, it does it against my will!"

Tsunade stood up in front of her student as she checked Sakura's eyes. "How are you able to communicate with it?"

"It has linked our minds together. Our bond is a symbiotic one. It communicates with me telepathically. Look, don't think that I'm going crazy here!"

"Did I say you were? Calm down," Tsunade sighed regretfully. "Listen, Sakura. I know it's hard, but you need to learn how to master control over this artifact's power. You have adept intelligence and can quickly figure out problems."

"That's true. I have figured out things that'd normally be a hard task, but the Witchblade… if you were in my position…"

"If I were, I would have done everything to fully master its control and kept its blood lusted hunger in check."

Sakura sighed. "You're right."

"Your new assignment will be to control the Witchblade's blood lusted nature. If it's anything like developing a new jutsu, you should be able to handle it. You didn't become my apprentice and the most adept medic-nin in this village for nothing. I know how good you are, Sakura. Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes, ma'am!" The pink-haired kunoichi responded as she bowed.

"Now, another thing I wanted to address… your group met with two Jinchuurikis and the priestess from Demon Country."

"Yes, we did. They really helped us pull through that whole mission. Without them, I don't think we would have made it back. We're lucky."

The Fifth Hokage smiled. "Very lucky. At least they were able to help you complete the mission. You mentioned that one of them came from Kumogakure?"

"Ugh, yes," Sakura scowled as Yugito's smiling cat-face appeared in her thoughts. The devious cat cackled like a madwoman possessed in the girl's mind. UGH! The next time I see that no good cat again! She's dead meat! "Her name was Yugito Nii. She was the Jinchuuriki containing the Nekomata no Nibi."

"Doesn't sound like you two got along very well."

"Well, let's just say… we had a few disagreements," the girl faked a smile.

Tsunade barely held back a chuckle. "Nonetheless, you two still worked together well. But, I never would have imagined someone from Kumo assisting you."

"And that old man Kai. I don't know what village he was once affiliated with. He's just a wanderer. Shion was a big help. Luckily we were able to find her in an abandoned shrine near the ancient lands. Her holy powers were incredible!"

Tsunade nodded. "Indeed. If she was able to suppress the Kyuubi's chakra."

"I also can't forget about Shigure…" Sakura sighed as she recalled hearing the dog mention finding Madara. "I hope he's doing ok."

"That talking dog you mentioned earlier. He knew Uchiha Madara. If only you had brought him along, we might have gotten a little more information."

Sakura bit down on her bottom lip. "True, but he left as soon as we finished our mission. He also didn't want to let go of that journal. I had to persuade him to hand it to me."

As she picked up the journal, Tsunade closed it and handed it to Sakura. "We'll find out what was inscribed in this journal. Our team will have this deciphered."

"Do you know how long it will take them?"

"Well, the Braille form of code is extremely rare. It's an archaic and out of date text. Even during my time, it was still a rare form of code writing. However, I have faith our team will figure it out. Just make sure and give it to them, Sakura."

Sakura took the journal from Tsunade and nodded. "Yes, Tsunade-sama!"

"Good. You're dismissed."

With that, Sakura walked out of the Hokage office with Madara's journal in hand.

Tsunade watched her apprentice close the door. The woman sighed as she turned to face the windows behind her. The thought of her student wielding the Witchblade still bothered her. She wondered if Sakura will ever find a way to gain restrain the artifact's wicked power. Though, she also perished the thought of her student hurting any of her teammates and fellow Konoha-nin.

"Sakura, please be careful. Don't let the artifact's dark power consume you. If only I could find the time to train you myself."

xxxxx

Konoha Cryptology Unit Office/Konohagakure

"Hello?" Sakura poked her head inside the front office. She opened the door, scanning the inside to see if anyone was available. "Huh. The door is open, but there's anyone here."

Just then, a light blonde-haired girl walked out of a back door. She appeared to be wearing a white, long-sleeved lab coat, which was worn by the members of the cryptology teams. The girl also wore a pair of swirly glasses.

"Oh, hello?" The girl noticed Sakura while readjusting her glasses. "Oh, it's you Sakura!"

The pink-haired kunoichi acknowledged the girl. "Shiho, have I got something for you to look at."

"Oh? What is it?" Shiho asked as she watched Sakura walking toward her. She noticed the journal in Sakura's hand. "A book?"

"Not just any book. It's an old journal. We collected it during our mission to the Uchiha feudal lands."

"Yikes! That must have been scary for you! I heard those lands are haunted!"

Sakura chuckled a little. "Well, kinda. I'll tell you all about it another time. But, this is really important that you decipher the writing in here."

As soon as she heard this, Shiho felt a 'tickle' feeling in her gut. She quickly became enthused. "Oh! What kind of writing?"

"Ever hear of the Braille form of writing?"

"Braille? Oh, yes! I've done some study from some texts. It's considered an ancient form of writing. It was really only used by blind people. Nowadays, it's extremely rare ever since eye implants became a common practice. I don't think I know anyone who ever uses it."

Tsunade's apprentice nodded. "That's what I thought. Well, there's no telling what the contents say in this journal. You see... Tsunade-sama requested me to give this to you and your team. I hear you're really good at decoding messages."

"Well, I don't know how to crack every code you know!" Shiho chortled as she took the journal from Sakura. She took a peek while opening the front cover. Her eyes scanned the archaic text as already she seemed excited. "Oh, boy. Sakura, you've given me something to work with! Finally something fun!"

"So, are you sure you can decipher it?"

"We'll see what we can do."

Sakura smiled as she turned away. "Ok then. How long will it take you?"

"To actually finish the whole journal? Eh... well... it depends really, but we'll let you know what we'll find."

"Right. You see it's important we know what the writer in there has recorded."

"May I ask who wrote this journal?" Shiho's interested piqued.

The medic-nin replied. "I'm not supposed to state the writer's name. You'll find out for yourself when your team finish deciphering the journal."

"Fair enough. Okay, we're right on it! I'll get started on this right away!"

"Just to be on the safe side, why don't you keep the identity of the writer of that journal to yourself and your team."

Shiho nodded as she came to an understanding. "No problem. Our lips will be sealed."

"Thanks a lot. Tsunade-sama will probably come by to check on the status of the journal's translation. Just don't overwork yourself, okay?"

Shiho smiled. "Yeah. Leave it to us. Our team consists of Konoha's best translators! By the way..."

The pink-haired girl blinked. "What?"

"Good to have you back in the village, Sakura."

"Me, too," Sakura nodded as she smiled a little. She turned, waving goodbye to Shiho. She opened the door and walked out of the office. "Yeah, home sweet home. I better get home and get some sleep."

'Awww, I bet you miss your bed, sleeping beauty.'

Ugh, I thought you'd at least keep quiet for tonight. Listen to me, I'm tired as hell and need to sleep! I plan on sleeping in until mid-day because of how exhausted I am. Got it? Don't go and try anything funny!

'I wouldn't dare to incur the wrath of Haruno Sakura! I'm not worthy!'

Was that sarcasm or were you just being humble?

'That's up to you to decide. So, shall we get home? I bet your momma and poppa would love to hear what their precious princess did on her mission! Oh, momma, you won't believe this! I ate an annoying ghost who tried to kill me! Oh, but don't worry I came back in one piece, but I did get into a fight with a crazy cat girl who tried to steal Naruto away from me!'

As she walked along by, Sakura was quickly getting strange looks from a few villagers as she balled up her right fist. The Witchblade continued on and on, which didn't sit well with the kunoichi. Her eyes were set ablaze with burning fire (literally) while she cursed under her breath.

Ignore the Witchblade. Ignore the Witchblade. IGNORE!

'What? Have I struck a nerve already? C'mon, don't deny it. You have a thing for that idiot friend of yours.'

I'm not listening to you. When I get home, I don't want to hear your stupid voice anymore!

'That's a shame. I WANT to talk to you. Maybe even sing you a lullaby when you go to sleep!'

I'M NOT FREAKING FOUR, OKAY?!

'Humph, you're no fun. Fine. Party pooper!'

As the Witchblade stopped, Sakura shuddered as she walked down the path leading to her home. The best she could hope for her parents to greet her, eating a nice meal, and getting a decent night's sleep. Of course, with the Witchblade, anything could happen and her routine would be destroyed. Sakura prayed for a normal night and nothing more.

xxxxx

Sakura's Room/Haruno Residence/Konohagakure

After she received a warm greeting from her parents, the girl ate a decent meal and quickly walked up to her room. The meal was enough to satisfy Sakura as she plopped herself on her soft bed. She stretched out her arms while staring up toward the ceiling.

"Mmmm, it feels sooooo good to be sleeping in my own bed again!" She smiled, feeling nice and cozy on top of her bed sheets. Her eyes moved from the ceiling and toward the Witchblade bracelet. "Hey, you awake?"

With that, the artifact chimed in the girl's mind. 'You rang?'

"Yes. Just checking to see if you're there."

'I'm always going to be here. As long as we're bonded and you don't die, you are my host, girl.'

"You know. While I was eating, I did some thinking."

'You want to learn to control me? You wish to train and master the blood lust of my power?'

"Yep, you know me very well. How about it? I did ask you if you'd help me before we left the haunted lands. Remember?"

'I do. Are you still sure you want to do it? Sara and Masane didn't have it easy.'

"Please, I've learned from some of Konoha's best, including the Fifth Hokage herself. I am her apprentice. She even said that I might surpass her one day."

'Hm. We'll see. That is if you survive through your missions. Don't forget... aren't we supposed to face those Akatsuki bastards?'

Sakura sighed. "Only time will tell. We won't know when they'll make their next move. Besides, that vision you gave me, I'm not familiar with that setting. So, I can't be sure where their hideout is located. It's no use fighting an enemy if you can't find them."

'Well, maybe Madara's journal may offer some clues? Or, we might be lucky and end up running into one of the Akatsuki! You have no idea how long I've waited to fight my first Akatsuki opponent. They're supposed to be these elite super ninjas... finally a challenge!'

"Too bad you weren't there when I fought Sasori alongside Chiyo-baasama."

The Witchblade sighed with sudden grief. 'Chiyo. She was such a great warrior and quite the hot looker during her youth. Now she had a nice bust! I made sure to make her as sexy as possible! Kekekeke!'

"Just like a typical perverted man," the pink-haired girl scoffed as she turned on her left side. As she threw a blanket over herself, Sakura reached over to turn off her light. "Let's get some sleep, Witchblade. My parents won't wake me up since I told them I'd be sleeping in late."

'What the hell am I supposed to do? Sit on my ass and watch you sleep while you dream of typical girlie stuff? Maybe something about your old crush, Sasuke... or maybe your new one, that idiot fox boy.'

Sakura quickly sat up from her bed and opened a cabinet sitting next to her bed. She pulled out a pair of cotton balls and placed them in her ears.

'You're in denial, girl! I know you're emotionally attached to those two! There's no use hiding! I can see everything that happens in your twisted mind! Hey! I'm talking to you! Sakura!'

As the Witchblade went on and on, Sakura tried her best to ignore the artifact. At the sametime, she concentrated on falling asleep peacefully without any unnecessary interruptions. As she closed her eyes, the girl fell deep asleep while murmuring to herself about her teammates.

The Witchblade hovered over Sakura in non-corporal/spiritual form. He folded his arms and carefully eyed his host.

'Humph, silly girl. You won't shun me out that easily. Heh, oh yes... If you're not going to chat with me, I know my roommate would LOVE to chat.'

With that, the Witchblade's face shaped with a big grin. With such an evil smile, there was a dubious motive behind his actions. Therefore, he looked at one another source to keep him entertained for the rest of the night. Unfortunately, this could ruin a perfectly tranquil evening for the Witchblade's current host.

xxxxx

Sakura's Mind

As Sakura fell almost dead asleep, the Witchblade whistled to himself as he sat comfortably on his throne. He turned as he noticed someone entering his chamber. A wicked smile curled on his pale lips as he saw Inner Sakura enter.

Needless to say, the girl's inner spirit was huffing and puffing as she balled up both fists.

"Well, hello there. It's been a while since we've chatted."

(Inner Sakura: 'WHAT THE HELL DO YOU WANT?! I WAS GETTING SOME SLEEP UNTIL YOU MADE THAT DAMN RUCKUS WITH YOUR WHISTLING!')

The dark-haired man got up from his throne as he folded both arms. "I just had a splendid idea, roommate. How about we play some games?"

(Inner Sakura: 'WHAT THE HELL DO YOU TAKE ME FOR?! I'M IN NO MOOD TO PLAY YOUR GAMES! NOW, DIIIIIIIIE!!')

As Inner Sakura lunged forward, her right fist grew and nearly caught the man.

Suddenly, the Witchblade teleported behind a blanket of black smoke. He quickly reappeared behind Inner Sakura and tapped her right shoulder. He then leaned behind her, whispering to her softly to rile her up even further.

"Uh, uh, you aren't playing nice, dear roommate!" The Witchblade chimed in a sing-a-long manner, taunting Sakura's inner spirit. "I really want to see which of us is really fit to be Sakura's alter ego. If you ask me, she's speaking to me more often. I'm winning the war, roommate."

(Inner Sakura: 'GRRRR. FINE. WHAT GAMES DO YOU SUGGEST WE PLAY?!')

Suddenly, as the Witchblade snapped his fingers, a big screen television appeared. Then, a stack of video game consoles appeared in front of the television; additionally, there was a large selection of games to choose from. Inner Sakura turned around as she blinked thrice.

(Inner Sakura: 'WHAT THE HELL ARE THOSE?!')

The Witchblade reached over to lifted up a flat black box. "This is what the people from my world call a video game console. I learned more about them through Sara and Dani. There's sooooo many neat games to choose from. You see, my friend... you put a game disc in these contraptions and I can guarantee you that it'll be addicting."

Walking toward the Witchblade Inner Sakura poked her head in to glance at the consoles. She noticed a Playstation 2, an X-BOX 360, a Wii, and a Playstation 3. Also sitting net to the consoles were the handheld systems, including the Nintendo DS and PSP. Sakura's inner manifestation knelt over to pick up several boxes, in which each contained a different game.

"I'll have you know that I've randomly selected the best and popular games from Sara's time."

(Inner Sakura: 'HMMMM. WELL?! WHAT ARE WE WAITING FOR, DUMBASS?! SET EVERYTHING UP!')

The Witchblade managed to grin an evil smile. He waved a finger as if scolding the inner spirit. "Patience, roommate. I just want to remind you that I won't go easy on you."

(Inner Sakura: 'SCREW GOING EASY! I WANNA SEE YOU TRY AND KICK MY ASS, BITCH!')

"Ah, I warned you. Well, don't say I didn't warn you. Let's see. We can start with a lil' Soul Caliber IV and Street Fighter. Then, some Devil May Cry. Oh, and there's some DDR to get our hearts pumpin'!"

(Inner Sakura: 'YOU'RE STARTING TO SOUND LESS AND LESS SCARY, YOU KNOW.')

As he chuckled, the dark-haired man pat Inner Sakura's back. "Even I need some leisure time and you think I'd rather be bored sitting my ass on that throne all that? Besides, I've never had to share space with someone else inside my previous hosts. You at least keep me company, dear."

Inner Sakura growled as she withdrew eye contact from the man. She did not even bother looking into the Witchblade's eyes.

"Let's make most of our friendship, my friend. For once, let's have some friendly competition."

Inner Sakura quickly turned around with fire burning in her eyes.

(Inner Sakura: 'FAIR ENOUGH, BUT YOU'LL SHOW ME HOW TO PLAY THESE FIRST! DEAL?!')

The ancient one nodded as he calmly smirked. "Let the games begin."

xxxxx

The next morning.

xxxxx

Hospital/Konohagakure

As Kakashi sat in his bed, he listened to everything Tsunade informed him in regards to the recent mission. The fact that Naruto and Sakura both transformed got him unnerved. Even though they completed their mission, he had given specific orders to Sakura to not transform on this assignment.

"Oh, those two..." Kakashi sighed, nodding his head with disappointment.

Tsunade stood in front of the window as she opened the curtains. "That's the lowdown of what occurred on the Uchiha feudal land mission. Of course, this was mostly told from Yamato's point of view."

"I understand."

"Well, as far as I know, Naruto and Sakura will be coming here. I'm sure they've wanted to see how far you've recovered." The Fifth Hokage gave a self-assuring smile. "I'll make sure that Sakura trains her butt off on how to properly master that Witchblade's power. I truly believe that with the adequate training she will adapt to harnessing its strength to its full capacity... at the sametime taming the artifact's blood lust."

The Copy Ninja eyed the Fifth as he watched her pacing toward the door.

"Well, I must make my leave now. Those two should get here any minute..."

"Lady Hokage, please don't mind me asking."

"What is it, Kakashi?"

The silver-haired man spoke as he leaned back against his pillow. "How would you have mastered the Witchblade?"

This didn't take long for the Fifth Hokage to respond.

"I would have trained my mind and body to the ma. Nonstop until I am certain I have conquered that artifact's wicked thirst for blood shed. Though, I can admit that it wouldn't be easy. If it would have be hard for me, I can only imagine the stress and hardship Sakura would put herself through."

"Sakura's a fighter, my lady. She did learn from you."

Tsunade smiled proudly. "Yes, and I'm happy to see how far my training has taken her. I just hope... she doesn't throw it all away just to rely on that damn Witchblade. For now, we can only monitor it. But, should anything go wrong, I'll confront Sakura myself. Good day to you, Kakashi."

With that, the Fifth closed the door behind her and left the Copy Ninja to rest.

As he looked at his lap, Kakashi shifted his head and faced the window as the sun fully rose in the distance.

"The Witchblade ate the spirit of an Uchiha spirit? Oh, Sakura. We get enough from Naruto, but you as well?" The Son of the White Fang closed his eyes, as he took a nap while waiting for his former students to come. "This getting far too complicating. The Witchblade... can its power really be trusted in her hands? Lady Hokage, you have confidence in her adept skills and ability to adapt to new circumstances. But, can even she learn to control a wicked item? It's all on you, Sakura. I just hope that it didn't have to be you."

xxxxx

Outside of Konoha Library/Konohagakure

Later in the day, Sakura went to the library to collect some books for research. She happened to find Sai there as they left to meet Naruto. The whiskered Genin sat on a bench by himself, finding no interest to sit in a 'boring' library as he called them.

Sakura told Sai and Naruto all about the dream she had. The boys could tell Sakura was looking drowsy and a little exhausted from her 'sleepy eyes.' The poor girl did not get as much sleep her body required. This was all because of the 'competition' that Inner Sakura and the Witchblade had all night.

"...and you see it was one of the weirdest dreams I've ever had! I saw a sorts of these characters from these things called video games. There was this kid with a weapon called a Keyblade. Let's see there was a silver-haired guy wearing a red coat who calls himself Dante or whatever. Oh, and some little game called Okami. Oh, and there was this blue spiked hedgehog who was running over these undead people with something he calls a 'spin dash.' Oh, and there was this interesting card game called Duel Monsters... whatever it was. It looked fun. I saw all of these fighters who call themselves 'Street Fighters' and a group of monsters calling themselves 'Dark Stalkers.' I mean it was crazy and I was in the middle of it!"

As she went on raving about her 'dream,' Naruto and Sai shot her befuddled looks. They looked at her as if she finally flipped her lid! Although, Naruto was starting to believe the Witchblade was causing her stress.

Sakura faked a laugh as she realized the boys were being weirded out by her dream. "Uh, heh... you guys think I've gone psycho, have you?"

Naruto shook his head. "What?! No way! I've had plenty of weird dreams, but this tops it all! I mean... what's a video game? You're telling me these are something you put in a box and play using some controls?"

"You see... well..." Sakura stuttered a bit scratched her head. Then, after a few seconds of being in inner thought, Sakura finally drooped her head and sighed. "Never mind. You guys aren't going to understand. It's too complicated. The Witchblade was the on who invaded my dreams and introduced me to all that stuff."

"The Witchblade...? Sakura-chan? I think you're still stressed out from that last mission. Heck, with all those ghosts we've faced, I don't blame ya!"

Sakura covered the left part of her face and sighed. "You could be right, Naruto. I hardly got any sleep." No, thanks to you, Witchblade. "I probably need to get home and sleep after we see Kakashi-sensei."

"Yeah, we still need to see him. Man, I hope he's already out of bed by now!" Naruto scoffed. "I'd like to get some training done."

The pink-haired kunoichi chuckled as she pushed aside a lock of hair. Ugh, again thanks a lot, pal! You almost made me embarrass myself after I told my friends about you playing your stupid games inside my head! Did you really need to drag ME along?!

'Tsk, tsk, I can't play all of those two-player games by myself. It's boring without a friend to play against.'

Sakura miffed. Fine. The next time we play against each other... I'm kicking your pompous ass and you're going down! "HELL YEAH! I'm going to kick your ass!"

Suddenly, as she returned to reality, Sakura paused as she watched Naruto and Sai distance themselves from her quick outbursts. Naruto was especially scared as he gave her a funny look.

"Guys...?" Sakura blinked as she walked towards them. Then, as she realized what she did, the girl groaned and slapped her own forehead. There?! Is this how you get your kicks? Seeing me make an idiot out myself?!

'You did that to yourself. Don't blame me for acting like a fool in public. You need to learn more about tact, dear Sakura.'

"Ugh... I hate you..." Sakura muttered, finding herself being lectured by the artifact.

"Sakura-chan! C'mon, we're going now!" Naruto called out from the distance.

The girl looked ahead as she hurried over to follow her teammates. "Whoa! Wait for me!"

xxxxx

Hospital/Konohagakure

As Team Seven arrived at the hospital, they were escorted by a nurse toward Kakashi's room. Needless to say, the Copy Ninja was delighted to see his former students, Naruto and Sakura. On the other hand, he was just as glad to be introduced to the new team member, Sai.

Kakashi smiled under his mask as he made eye contact with Sai. "Sai, was it? Nice to meet you."

Sai answered while rubbing his cheek. "Thank you."

Both Naruto and Sai were sporting bruises on her faces as Sakura stood alongside them bearing an 'innocent' smile on her face. The reason the boys got bruises was quite painfully clear: Sai insulted Sakura again with a crude remark and Naruto got involved in the middle of the mess.

"Hoo boy..." Kakashi sighed. They must have caught Sakura in a bad mood. He chuckled to himself as he shifted his eye on the girl. "Sakura, can you come here for a second."

"Um, sure," the pink-haired female answered as she walked over by Kakashi's bedside.

The silver-haired man whispered into Sakura's ear. "Both of them got hurt. Did they get into a fight? You know how short-fused Naruto can be. It wouldn't surprise me..."

Sakura quickly put on a facade as she denied anything happened. "Oh, no! It's nothing really! Weeeee're all reaaally good friends!" As she faked a smile, she laughed a bit.

Kakashi nodded understandably. "I see then. I guess there's no real conflict within the group. Oh, one more thing..." He whispered again in her ear. "I know all about what happened with the Witchblade. Lady Hokage told me all about your use during that mission."

Sakura's smile faded as she gripped her chest. Her eyes moved toward the bracelet on her right wrist.

"Don't worry," Kakashi reassured her. "But, she highly suggests you begin training and find a way to control the Witchblade's power. For the time being, and for your own good, you won't be given any new mission. You and Naruto actually will be going without a mission for the next two weeks."

Sakura whispered back. "Two weeks? So, you want me to somehow control the Witchblade in two weeks? I... I'll do my best, but why do you need Naruto to stay?"

"You'll see."

As Sakura walked back to her teammates, she waited for Kakashi to state his announcement. Naruto glanced over to notice the girl not as high-spirited as she was earlier.

"Naruto, go ahead," Sakura murmured.

"I know," he said as he faced Kakashi. "About our last mission... we..."

Kakashi nodded as he listened and read his book simultaneously. "I know what happened. Lady Hokage and Yamato told me all about it."

"We... we faced some really tough enemies at those haunted lands... and not to mention from our last mission Sasuke was too strong. I feel like I'm way behind, especially now that Sakura-chan has the Witchblade."

Kakashi answered as plainly as he could. "Well, in that case, you only need to get stronger than Sasuke. And stronger than your enemies, right?"

Sakura interjected. "Even if I'm the Witchblade host, I still haven't mastered its full control. I'll do my best to tame its feral nature. I'm not relying on my own power. I was only able to match and outmaneuver Sasuke with the Witchblade. Without it... well... I wouldn't have stood a chance. This mission with those evil spirits allowed the Witchblade to feed and grow stronger. Right now this artifact has gotten stronger, but I need to master its use."

"Hmmm, yes that's for certain," Kakashi added.

"As far as Sasuke goes, I consulted Tsunade-sama before I left on our recent mission. She told me that it's possible he's been using forbidden jutsu or taking some kind of drugs to augment his strength," Sakura continued on.

The bedridden man replied. "I wouldn't be surprised. Don't forget that Kabuto is with them."

"I feel like I'm just as guilty as Sasuke-kun. I'm relying on a short cut... I feel like I've let Tsunade-sama down. Like I've dejected her ways of teaching just to use this wicked artifact. I..."

Kakashi added as he stopped Sakura abruptly. "It's ok, Sakura. I've spoken with her. You know what you must do for the next two weeks. That is exactly what she asks of you. Can you at least honor the Lady Hokage that request?"

"I will," Sakura nodded.

"Perhaps you possessing the Witchblade can also be a gift. Use that to get stronger, but you yourself must learn to overcome its dark and corrupt nature. You must be the one to command its power, Sakura," Kakashi added.

"Yes, Kakashi-sensei."

The masked man smiled. "Good girl." With that, he shifted his attention from Sakura and back on the Jinchuuriki. "Naruto. While Sakura tries to control the Witchblade, you'll endure a training that is specifically made for you."

"What is it?" Naruto trembled with excitement.

"With this training, you might even surpass me."

"Me?! Surpass you?!" Naruto was taken back by surprise.

Kakashi nodded. "During this training, I'll be with you the whole time. Also it's going to be different from any training you've had so far."

"And what is it?" The Genin inquired as he stood still, feeling his knees trembled with excitement.

"You'll develop an ultimate ninjutsu to call your own..."

Sakura listened to Kakashi discussing the requirements necessary to complete this new training Naruto must endure. She lowered her eyes on the Witchblade bracelet, pressing a finger on the red gem.

You hear that? I'm going to need your full cooperation on this, pal.

'Yeah, yeah, I know. I have to fulfill my end of the bargain. Since you did play with me and your Inner self last night... So, when do we start?'

Tomorrow. First thing in the morning. You're going to have to coach me through if I need you.

'Whatever you say. Just don't go blame me if you fully transform and go berserk on my watch.'

That's why I'm counting on you to stop me if I go crazy. Besides, I suggest to train out in the wilderness so no one gets in the way. That'll be easy for us.

'Heh, I know I'm going to enjoy watching you train half-naked. You know...'

DON'T START, PERV.

The ancient one chortled in amusement, much to Sakura's chagrin. 'Admit it. I've altered your image when you transform. Be grateful I gave you an appealing sexy body and nice, round boobies to boot. They call come with a price as long as you're my host, my dear.'

As Sakura shook her head, she lightly groaned in exasperation. "Two weeks of hell here we come."

xxxxx

Akatsuki Hideout/Amegakure/Rain Country

Meanwhile, far away from Konoha, there was some activity taking place inside a tall and massively structured tower. The village this structure towered over was a small village albeit a highly industrialized one. Compared to the other villages, the technology greatly enhanced as its people relied on advanced ways of living. The village itself was a loosely knit one, befitting a destabilized country. Its residents also included missing-nin from other villages.

Amongst these missing-nin was the Akatsuki. Three of them currently occupied this tower, which was their actual hideout. Little is known about their activity and those who try to probe their activities will result in death. The current leader, Pein, was not only the Akatsuki leader, but he recently claimed the status as Amekagure's village leader. He became leader immediately after killing Hanzo the Salamander, the former village leader, during the country's civil war. Prior to Pein's rule, and after the Third Great Shinobi War, Amegakure already suffered losses and became a worn-torn country.

As Amekagure's village leader, Pein reigned as an enigmatic and godlike figure. He had single-handedly ended the war and overthrew the country. Thus, he effectively placed fear amongst all of Amegakure's citizens. The people of Amegakure feared the mysterious Rinnengan-user's power as few attempted to assassinate him, which onlyto led to failure.

However, one other individual stood on top of the pecking order within the Akatsuki rankings. Pein only answered to one other and that was Uchiha Madara.

xxxxx

As he arrived within the Akatsuki headquarters, Madara introduced Shigure to Konan and Pein. Shigure had insisted on coming along to meet with Madara's other accomplices.

Madara spoke up as he placed a hand on Shigure's head. "Konan. Pein. I'd like to introduce you to someone I knew from my past. This is Shigure. He will stay with you until I have announced the change in our plans."

Konan blinked in confusion. She never questioned either Pein or Madara's decision, but she wondered why Madara insisted to keep a dog in the tower. From what she could garner about Madara, the old Uchiha wasn't the type to enjoy the company of animals... much less pets.

"But, why bring a dog here?" Konan inquired as she shifted her eyes on Shigure.

As he used his Rinnengan, Pein scanned the dog's entire body. It was then that he realized Shigure was no ordinary canine. From what his eyes could probe, the dog's body contained a human soul within it.

Pein spoke as he focused his eyes on the animal. "It's not an ordinary dog, is it Madara?"

"Heh, looks like you already noticed," said Madara as he smirked behind his mask.

"It's not difficult to see a human soul trapped in an animal's body with my Rinnengan."

Shigure's eyes widen in surprise when he heard about the one that possessed the Rinnengan eyes. He never thought he would personally see the legendary eyes that was said to surpass both the Byakugan and Sharingan.

"Rinnengan?! But, it's said to be the legendary eyes!" Shigure exclaimed in shock.

"I see you know about the Rinnengan, Shigure-kun," Madara chuckled.

"Mother and father used to tell me about them, Madara-sama."

Both Pein and Konan looked at the dog. Although, they didn't express any emotion on their faces, but, deep down they were a little surprised. They heard about beasts and animal spirits being sealed in humans. This was such the case with the Bijuu and the Jinchuuriki. However, this was the first time they saw a human soul trapped and sealed in a dog's body.

Pein walked over by Madara and queried to the old Uchiha. "Can he be trusted?"

Madara calmly pat Shigure's head as he faced at the Rinnengan user's face. "Shigure-kun can be trusted, Pein. Unlike my clansmen, he's very loyal to me. He also informed me the events that happened to our old lands and he told me about an artifact called Witchblade."

"Witchblade?" inquired Konan, who seem somewhat intrigued.

"Shigure-kun will tell you everything you need to know about this Witchblade, Konan, I have to return to Deidara before he suspect about where 'Tobi' went. And Shigure-kun…" Madara said as Shigure looked at his master. "While I am out, I want you to follow Pein and Konan's orders without any questions. Understood?"

The dog nodded before bowing to his master. "Yes, Madara-sama."

With that, Madara was vanished out of thin-air and Shigure was left with Pein and Konan inside the Akatsuki tower.

"Well, now that I'm here I suppose I should tell you all you need to know... about the Witchblade," Shigure started to tell his point of view about the Konoha-nin who arrived on his lands and the Witchblade's current host to the top ranked Akatsuki.

xxxxx

Ichiraku Ramen Stand/Konohagakure

After they left the hospital, Naruto, Sakura, and Sai were having their lunch at the Ichiraku Ramen Stand. Naruto was eating his ramen so fast like his life was depending on it.

"Naruto, slow down!" Sakura snapped as she scolded her teammate.

"Can't help, Sakura-chan," the Genin remarked after he slurped the miso soup of his ramen. "After that mission and being scared a lot by those ghosts, I just wanted eat my ramen in peace! Besides, I'm finally going to get some training with Kakashi-sensei that he told us about!"

"I know, but you don't need eat like a pig," she added

Sakura narrowed her eyes as Naruto just plainly ignored her. He returned to eat his ramen before he asked to Ichiraku about a third dish. Sakura wondered how Naruto can eat so much ramen at once.

Just then, she heard the Witchblade chuckling.

'Well, that's nothing compared when some of my past hosts were pregnant. You should have seen Sara eating when she was pregnant! She could eat two times more food than your blondie friend here.'

Sakura answered back to the artifact's sentinent mind. I can understand a pregnant woman eating more since she's eating for two, but we're talking about Naruto here.

'In a way Naruto is like a pregnant woman!'

As soon as she heard this, Sakura nearly fell out of her seat and nearly wanted to bust out laughing. Sakura was lucky for she had finished her lunch or else she would have choked on her noodles after Witchblade comment's.

Naruto and Sai looked at their friend. They wondered what had suddenly made Sakura fall out of her chair

Oh my god! Now, why didn't I think of that?!

The ancient one scoffed. 'Come on! Did you forget he has a demon sealed in his stomach?! It's painfully quite obvious! I can't believe you missed the mark!'

"Are you ok, Sakura-san?" inquired Sai as he noticed Sakura covering her mouth.

Sakura tried hard not to bust out laughing out loud. "Hehe, I'm fine. I just almost gasped too deeply."

xxxxx

After finishing their meal, the trio paid for their lunches. Luckily for them, Kakashi came walking by as he left the hospital.

"Oh, Kakashi-sensei! Did they discharge you?" Sakura asked as she addressed to the Copy Ninja. "I thought they would do that until tonight."

Kakashi scratched his head. Yes, well, the nurses told me that I could go and as you can see... here I am."

Naruto clasped his hands as if he were imploring to Kakashi. "Well, maybe we can start training today?!"

"Eh, we'll see..." The Jounin chuckled.

"Hey, check this out, guys!" A young boy's voice called out behind them.

As they walked out of the ramen stand, they turned to see a young boy. It was Konohamaru, who greeted the three. Naruto's smile widened when he noticed a second Konohamaru standing beside the original.

"Wow! I see you finally mastered the Kage no Bunshin!" Naruto complimented Konohamaru. "Show me what else you can do!"

With that, both Konohamaru smirked as they simultaneously formed hand seals.

POOF!

"Oriroke: Onna no ko Doushi no jutsu!!"

Konohamaru and his clone transformed into two beautiful, well-endowed women standing in extremely sexy poses. One had long, dark hair and the other had long blonde hair. Both of them were completely nude and had killer bodies, which would catch any lustful man's quick attention.

"Oooo, what do you think of our jutsu? Tee-hee!" The two women winked, striking more sexy poses. "But, eh, he, no touching! Hee-hee!" They almost tried to kiss each other, implying the obvious 'Yuri' undertones

Naruto exploded as his eyes widened and his smile widened. At the sametime, a trickle of blood poured out of his nose. "WHOAAA!! WHAT A GAME PLAN!!"

Sakura looked disgusted. Kakashi watched in embarrassment as he slightly twitched a bit from this sudden jutsu transformation. Sai didn't show any expression from this.

As he ended his little hentai show, Konohamaru undid his transformation with a big grin on his face.

As his voice chimed within Sakura's mind, the Witchblade cackled happily like hot-blooded perv that he was. 'Ohohoho! For once I agree with the whisker face here. WHAT A GAME PLAN!! I LOVE THIS KID'S STYLE!!' Witchblade happily as he gave two thumbs up, approving Konohamaru's perverted jutsu.

(Inner Sakura: OF COURSE YOU'D LOVE IT! YOU MAKE ALL YOUR HOSTS LOSE THEIR CLOTHING, YOU FREAKING PERVERT!)

"How about that, Naruto?!" Konohamaru asked his 'big brother.' "That was two girls and I could do more with them. Just watch..." The poor young Sarutobi never had the chance to finish it when Sakura's fist shot forward, punching Konohamaru in the head. "GAAAH!"

"NO NEED GO ANY FURTHER!!" Sakura roared out as she stood over Konohamaru.

Naruto quickly rescued Konohamaru from Sakura's wrath.

"Sakura-chan! That's also used to work as a type of diversion! Did you forget?" Naruto inquired as he tried to convince the already fuming girl.

Unfortunately for Naruto, Sakura was still fuming. There was no convincing an enraged woman.

"No way! The only ones to fall for crap like that would be the freaking perverted types!" Sakura snapped as she rubbed her right hand.

"Oh, is that right?!" Konohamaru just smirked.

Sakura shifted her eyes on the boy. "You got that right!"

"Oh yeah?! How about this?!" shouted Konohamaru as he formed another hand seal. This time he and his clone performed another type of jutsu.

POOF!!

"Oiroke: Otoko no ko Doshi no Jutsu!!"

Following the completion of the jutsu, Konohamaru and his clone had transformed into Sasuke and Sai in a very intimate position. Both of them were almost nude as smoke clouds covered their private areas. Sakura just had the similar reaction that Naruto had a while ago, catching everyone else by surprise.

Sakura screamed out as a trickle of blood spilled from her left nostril. "KYAAH!! WHAT A GAME PLAN!!"

(Inner Sakura: OH MY GOD!! A NAKED SASUKE AND SAI!! THANK YOU HEAVEN FOR MY PRAYERS!!")

Inner Sakura roared out happily with hearts in her eyes. The Witchblade simply just laughed at his roommate.

'Ahahaha! And you said I am the perverted one?!' The ancient one cackled.

Kakashi looked more embarrassed as Naruto simply freaked out. Sai didn't show any reaction again. He just stared at the scene like as if nothing happened.

"That's just me and Sasuke?" Sai remarked

Almost immediately, Sakura just blinked as she returned to her senses. "Huh? Oh..."

Bam!

Naruto just slapped Konohamaru's head for performing a creepy 'Yaoi' version of Sasuke and Sai.

"Don't do creepy things like that again!" Naruto shouted as he angrily scolded the boy. "That was really unnecessary!" He shuddered and perished that Yaoi thought.

"Hehe, yeah. Don't do anything useless like that again. You should practice more useful jutsus," Sakura said as she addressed to the young boy. She still felt a little embarrassed as her cheeks turned pink. As she turned, she sweat-dropped as Kakashi, Naruto, Sai, and Konohamaru eyed her as if she was caught doing something wrong.

Sakura gasped as she backed off. "W-W-Wait! I-I am not like that! Honestly!"

Of course, no one believed her.

The Witchblade chimed in an annoying, sing-along tone. 'Oooooo, looks like someone is in deeeeeeeenial again!'

The girl snapped at the Witchblade as she was trying to get her dignity back. No one asked you!

"Looks like you're one of us after all," Konohamaru smirked.

'I agree with the kid there. You're just like one of us. Now give into your inner-perviness!' The Witchblade nodded, even though no one can see his spiritual form.

Sakura groaned, feeling like she's been put in her most embarrassing moment in her life. Ugh, I can't believe this!

'Wow, you keep surprising me every single time, Sakura dear. I never imagined you'd be a closet pervert, girl! Though, you're not the first host I had who were closet perverts. Dani and Masane were totally into that kinky stuff.' Nodded the Witchblade, though no one can see his spirit form. 'Now, I have another good reason to keep you as my host. Perhaps, you could show me some naughty magazines or toys you have hidden in your closet?'

Sakura covered her face and tried to hide her pink cheeks. "This just isn't my day. Could the next two weeks get any worse?"

'Do, you got any other kinky secrets you'd like to share?'

"Like I said, two weeks of hell..." Sakura sighed in defeat.

xxxxx

Orochimaru's Compound/Snake's Lair/Kabuto's Lab/Grass Country

Kabuto walked forward as he faced three figures concealed behind a darkened section of his lab. As Kabuto checked the tanks, he carefully observed the six hand gauntlets that floated inside their glass seals.

His two leading ladies, Karin and Tayuya, walked alongside the three figures.

"Ok, we double checked our volunteers and gave them thorough physical checkups. Their vitals are good. Their bodies are quite the suitable types we're looking for," Karin explained as she scribbled notes to complete her report on their current subjects. "I have the profiles of our three... err four rather... volunteers. They will kindly help us to test out our new weapons."

Tayuya folded her arms. "Yeah, yeah. Don't forget that I'm the first to go."

Karin nodded. "I haven't forgotten. Now, when I call up your name, step forward." With that, she scanned the first profile page on her clipboard. "Fuuma Sasame."

As her name was called upon, the first subject walked forward. This subject was a young teenage girl who physically appeared to be 15-years-old. Her brown eyes cautiously scanned the surroundings as she wondered why she decided to join. Her long, shoulder-length orange hair flopped back and forth behind her back. She wore a light gray, sleeveless vest with a black collar adorning around her neck. Her black pants stretched down all the way above her knees. A tan brown weapon holster hung on her left hip. She wore a pair of dark blue zoris and a blue, ski hat that covered her entire top half of her head.

"Answer when I've called your name."

"I'm... I'm here," Sasame nervously answered.

"Feh, she's clearly not cut out to be part of this project," Tayuya scoffed.

Kabuto smiled as he approached Sasame. "I disagree. Fuuma Sasame has every reason to join us. Isn't that right, Sasame dear?" He spoke calmly, causing the girl to turn away.

"Y-Y-Yes," the orange-haired Fuuma clan girl stuttered.

"Fuuma Sasame of the Fuuma clan. I promised that you'd see your cousin again if you chose to cooperate?" Kabuto reminded her.

Sasame nodded. "Yes. If I cooperate, you'd let me see my cousin, Arashi."

"That's the deal and I intend to carry out that end of the bargain if you follow our instructions."

Tayuya managed a small chuckle. "Oh, you can be such a smooth bastard, Kabuto."

Karin checked the next profile and called the next subject's name. "Isaribi."

The next subject stepped forward and revealed herself. She was a fairly young girl who appeared 17-years-old. She had long, purple hair that stopped mid-length near the neck with two pigtails hanging down the sides. She wore a sleeveless, blue dress that hung all the way down above her ankles. She wore white bandages, which covered her forehead, the right side of her face, and her right arm.

"Present," Isaribi answered.

Kabuto smiled coolly as he shifted his eyes toward Isaribi. "You must be one of Amachi's test subjects from the Land of the Sea. That man used to work for Orochimaru-sama before his services were no longer adequate. Many of Amachi's subjects were failures. Isaribi, we wish to correct your flaws and find a cure to for your condition."

Isaribi merely turned away, not giving eye contact to Kabuto. "..."

"You are going to cooperate with us, Isaribi. Correct?" Kabuto said as he patted the girl's head. "If you do, we will cure you. Isn't that what you've always desired?"

The girl nodded slowly, not saying a word.

Tayuya snorted in irritation. "Sheesh, another pain in the ass. At least speak up! Are you fucking shy?!"

"Y-Yes, Kabuto-sama," Isaribi whispered. She looked toward Tayuya and scowled, taken back by the red-head's unflattering remark.

Karin checked the next profile. "Kira... and Kisa. Please, step forward."

With that said, the third subject walked forward. However, there only appeared to be one individual. She was revealed as a tall, slender pale-skinned and violet-eyed girl. She had light blue hair, worn with pigtails that hung down the sides. The girl's lips were painted pitch black. Her black body suit covered her entire body, save for the collarbone and above her well-endowed bosom. An embroidered fishnet cloth covered her waist area (well below her midriff) as a tight black belt tightened around the same area. Her black leather boots stretched from above the ankles and all the way down to her feet.

"Kira here," the blue-haired girl smirked evilly. "Oh, twin sister, answer the role." With that said, another head popped out from behind Kira's back and turned around to confirm her presence. "Kisa here."

Kabuto faced the twins. "So, you two managed to find the twin cousins of Sakon and Ukon."

Karin added. "Yes, and these two share the same Kekkei Genkai as their older cousins."

"It didn't take these two long to cooperate. When I told them about their cousins, they want in our group," Tayuya said. Of course, if they're anything like Sakon and Ukon, I expect these two to be complete bitches.

"And we're going to get the job done unlike our cousins," Kira smiled.

Kisa giggled sadistically. "We look forward to using these cloned weapons to get rid of this pink-haired bitch and her little friends."

"You'll get your chance to avenge your cousins, correct? Is that what you seek?" Kabuto said.

"Pfft, avenge our older cousins? We're only doing this to get our kicks in by killing a few worthless lives and to gain power," Kira snorted. "Maybe even get paid."

Tayuya turned up her nose toward the twins. "Yeah, complete bitches, all right."

Kira and Kisa shifted her beady eyes toward Tayuya, overhearing the Sound 4 survivor's snide remarks.

"She knew our cousins, Kira," Kisa smiled seductively.

"Yes, I know. Heh, if Sakon and Ukon annoyed her... just wait until she works with us."

Kabuto cleared his throat as he garnered the girls' attention. "Ok, Karin. Thanks for the role call."

Karin nodded. "Not a problem."

"As you can see, you were all called here for a reason. I've stated three days ago that you will become the bearers of our newly developed cloned weapons. Your objective will be the carry out Orochimaru's revenge on the one named Haruno Sakura and her fellow Konoha-nin."

The six ladies listened as Kabuto assigned them a code number for which cloned gauntlet they would wield.

As Tayuya faced the tanks, she became fascinated with the gauntlet that floated inside the middle tank. She stepped forward, placing her hand against the glass. The cloned gauntlet twitched as it placed its fingers against Tayuya's as if the two were beginning to form a bond.

Karin noticed this occurrence and carefully monitored Tayuya's activity.

"Just you wait, baby. You and me are gonna raise some fucking hell together," Tayuya grinned evilly. She stared hypnotically at the weapon.

xxxxx

Sewer Systems/Kumogakure/Lightning Country

As soon as she returned to Kumogakure, she confirmed her successful mission and gave the Raikage to evidence of Inori's essence. Once that last piece of Inori's essence was examined by the village's priests, they discarded and destroyed what was left of Inori.

Yugito was quickly assigned a new mission to investigate a disturbance near the sewer vicinity of Kumogakure. There were reports of a pair of missing-nin bearing the black cloaks and the red cloud designs.

Without question, the Akatsuki were drawing near.

As she heeded Naruto's warning, Yugito decided to take the mission to confront the two Akatsuki members to prevent them from coming near her village.

xxxxx

Yugito found herself in a huge pinch as she faced the two Akatsuki members, both of whom stood twenty feet away.

The female Jinchuuriki recognized the cloaks as Naruto described them to her. So, the kit was right. "I see. So, you two are from the Akatsuki."

The two Akatsuki members stood side by side.

On the left was a silver-haired man who had his hair neatly combed. He held out his trademark weapon: a three-bladed scythe that resembled three blood-tipped hooked talons. The weapon, which was attached by a long rope, had extended out to grab Yugito, but quickly retracted back to the red-eyed, silver-haired man. He wore the traditional Akatsuki garb as he left the front part of his cloak unbuttoned. This man was Hidan, deep follower of the Jashin religion.

The other was a giant of a man. In addition to his cloak, the white hood, and his Waterfall hitai-ate, the giant man's eyes and nose were only visible. His eyes looked visibly red - the pupils were green and well-rounded - from a closer distance if one could see them. He wore a black mask, which covered his mouth. This behemoth was Kakuzu, formerly of Takigakure.

"Let's do this," the giant man spoke in a deep, harsh tone that made him sound distinctively like a beast.

The silver-haired man stopped as he held out a hand with a bead necklace. Hanging down from the necklace was an amulet, which bore the indentation of Jashin's symbol.

"Hold on there. Before we do that," Hidan said as he closed his eyes and uttered a prayer. "I need to be sure and offer my prayers to Jashin-sama."

The giant, Kakuzu, growled in irritation. "There you go again with those pointless prayers."

"Hey, I don't like 'em either, but..."

Yugito watched the Akatsuki pair exchange words as she clasped her hands together. I will survive this and see you again, kit. And I intend to finish our rivalry, you pink-haired brat! "I've got you trapped, you two bastards!"

Sssszzzt.

BA-BOOM!!

Paper bombs were ignited through the tunnels of the sewer structure behind the Akatsuki pair. The two cloaked men jumped back as they shielded their faces.

"What the fuck?! She lured us out here!" Hidan cursed angrily.

"Now that I've been warned that you're with the Akatsuki! Yes, black robes with red clouds! I can't let you go. I've been sent by the Raikage to kick your asses off my land!"

Hidan sneered. "Oh jeez... looks like she's got us trapped, Kakuzu."

Kakuzu bluntly added. "No problem. Things are getting more interesting this way."

As she crouched over, Yugito became shrouded by a thick aura of bluish flames. "I swear on my own name, Yugito Nii of Kumogakure... I'M GOING TO KILL YOU!" Her voice altered into a loud big cat cry.

xxxxx

To be continued...

Next time

Chapter 22: The Zombie Duo, Hidan and Kakuzu! Akatsuki Makes its Move!

xxxxx

Translation notes

(Canon) Oiroke: Onna no ko Doushi no Jutsu/Sexy: Double Knockout Girls Technique
Type: Unknown

Konohamaru's own version of Naruto's Harem no Jutsu. He creates a Bunshin of himself, and initiates the technique, transforming into two naked, and well endowed women in a suggestive pose.

(Canon) Oiroke: Otoko no ko Doshi no Jutsu/Sexy: Double Knockout Guys Technique

Type: Unknown

The alternative to the Sexy: Double Knockout Girls Technique. This has the same effect on females as the original has on the males.

xxxxx

A/N: I hope you all enjoyed this filler chapter. Well, half-filler. There were still important stuff going on outside Konoha: the formation of the Cloneblade girls, Madara introducing Shigure to Pein & Konan, and Yugito facing Hidan & Kakuzu. Well, I implemented some comedy to lighten the mood until we hit a darker arc. Credit for the Akatsuki meeting and the perverted humor scenes go to Belletiger. Thanks a lot, my friend!

The perverted humor scene is the actual scene where Konohamaru shows off his two sexy techniques (the one where Sakura reveals her true perverted colors!). As you can see, this scene occurred after the Hidan & Kakuzu arc, but, intents and purposes for this story, it has been moved up before that specific arc. And the Witchblade was a part of the fun. Oh, and let's not forget Inner Sakura introduced to the concept of video games. Heh.

We've also been introduced to plenty of new characters. First, there's Shiho - that girl with the glasses who has a crush on Shikamaru and works within the cryptology department. For those who haven't read further into the manga, she comes much later in Shippuden. Three (four if you count Kisa) new girls have been introduced: Sasame, Isaribi, and Kira/Kisa. Two filler arc girls and an OC (two OCs if you count Kisa, again). Hey, if I can use a movie character like Shion, then I can use characters from the Filler Era of Hell. Eh, but that's fine. I'm using two filler girls that were actually quite decent characters. These two will be new in this universe since I'm basing this story's timeline through the manga version. So, neither of them have met Naruto, Sakura, or any Konoha-nin yet. I may even rewrite those filler sagas Sasame & Isaribi were a part of and implement them into the Witchblade: Sakura storyline. We'll see how that goes once they've become fully-powered Cloneblades. Kira and Kisa are two OCs created by me & Belletiger. They are the younger cousins of the deceased pair, Sakon and Akon of the defunct Sound Four. Notice any resemblences between the cousins? Last, but not least, we can't forget Hidan and Kakuzu - the Zombie Duo.

The next arc will be the Zombie Duo arc. Yes, Hidan and Kakuzu take over as the next set of villains Witchblade Sakura contends with. This arc won't take long. Probably a max of 3-4 chapters. We'll see.

Ok, that's all for now. As of Wednesday, October 29th, 2008, I will turn 25 (though I don't feel like I'm any older). Leave me a Happy B-day wish if you want. Take care and have a Happy Halloween, my readers! Leave me a review after you finish reading. Take care and see you on the next update.