~Authors Note
Sorry it took me so long it wasn't that I was experiencing any kind of issues while writing this chapter, I just kind of took a little bit of a break yesterday to do other things like read and such, anyway here's the next chapter and I hope you all enjoy it.
End Authors Note~
On their way to the arena Karin and Sakura were joined by Naruto, Shikamaru and Ino "I'm kind of nervous what about you guys" Ino rubbed her arms, getting the feeling that something was up, but not able to pinpoint her feeling.
"This whole thing is a drag, maybe I'll forfeit" Shikamaru groaned, meeting Sakura's gaze, who nodded in understanding, keeping the redheaded girl as close to her as possible, guard raised as she scanned around her warily.
Prompting Shikamaru to do the same albeit a lot more subtler than she was "Sakura-chan are you okay, you haven't said a single word yet" Naruto commented when they were halfway to the arena, trekking along at their own pace but more than aware of how much time they had.
Emerald snapped to blue and Sakura worried her lip considering her options, should she tell them so they could be aware or was it to much of a risk "Does it have anything to do with your opponent being a Ji…." Karin chimed in only to have a hand clapped over her mouth.
Sakura shook her head indicating not to reveal that particular secret and Karin ducked her head feeling as if she'd just got scolded in a way she had and she didn't really like it "Where is Sasuke, why because I thought he'd be with you" Shino appeared soon after.
When they were practically at the doors of the arena meant for the final rounds "Kakashi-sensei's still training him I think, at least that's what Hisashi reported" Sakura offered as an explanation and suddenly her crow companion was perched on her shoulder.
"Ah w..wait fo..for me pl..please" Hinata dashed after them as they opened the doors to the arena and went in, Sakura graced her with a warm smile and the lot of them lined up together, proctor already there along with a couple others.
Kankuro for one, Neji, Dosu was there even as was Shigeri, Karin's opponent/teammate, missing however was Tenten so far, Sasuke and Gaara, who appeared in a swirl of sand right as she thought that, then Tenten came running through the doors.
Making Sasuke the only one missing from their entourage of fellow contestants, Sakura blew out a quiet breath and passed a hand through her short hair, pale green irises shifted onto her at that but the boy those eyes belonged to said nothing merely drilled holes into the side of her head.
Then Sasuke with Kakashi body flickered into the arena in a flurry of leaves "Hope I'm not late" Sasuke grunted wearing a black spandex outfit, not his usual blue and white, Sakura lifted a brow at it and he slunk over to her.
Right as their proctor cleared his throat "No your on time, let me explain some rules before we get on with the first fight, first off, killing is not forbidden during this round, but if I think one contestant can't go I can interfere" the brunet informed.
"I am Genma Shiranui and everyone but Uzumaki and Hyuga off the field" Genma barked sending the rest of the genin scrambling up to the stands, Sakura sighed softly wondering how the day would end, unaware that she was lagging behind.
Until she found herself completely alone with Dosu of all people "Forfeit the match, while strong you can't face Gaara on your own" Dosu demanded realizing the same thing as she had no doubt as the others hurried up to the stand to watch the first match.
This got Sakura's blood boiling "Dosu, I want you to understand one thing, if I forfeit people will die I refuse to be a coward" the rosette snapped temper already frayed, Dosu gave her a suffering look in response.
"Orochimaru's fixated on you, he won't stop until you and the Uchiha are under his thumb" the fourteen year old growled irritated that the girl was so stubborn, like seriously not even Kin could piss him off this much even if he didn't know what had happened to her or Zaku.
Which admittedly worried him "Ha you think I don't already know that Dosu, newsflash I'm not as stupid as everyone thinks I am just because I have pink hair" Sakura shot back shoving past the mummy wrapped teen until he snagged her wrist.
"Listen Sakura, Gaara's not a normal kid, he's a Jinchuuriki, you don't stand a chance against him if he goes into that state, you'll die what part of that do you not get and the only person who could remotely control him is dead" Dosu spat.
Sakura ripped her hand free from his grip however "I know what I'm doing Dosu your just going to have to trust me so either stay out of my way or prove that your more than just another one of Orochimaru's experiments" the pinkette stated.
Eyes burning with fire that seared through his veins into his very soul "Kami you're a pain you stupid mulish girl" the raven haired fourteen growled clearly frustrated as he stormed off leaving her in the stairwell.
After a few minutes she headed up to the stands herself where she was surrounded on all sides "You okay that guy didn't hurt you did he Sakura-chan" the scarlet haired girl asked shooting glares at Dosu not that he was paying them any attention.
Thankfully Sakura shook her head and focused her attention on the fight raging down below "Oi Karin come over here for a minute" Shigeri suddenly called out to Karin, who gripped Sakura's hand tightly in response, as emerald orbs narrowed.
But when he beckoned to them both girls walked warily over to him "Just wanted to wish you luck in your fight against me when it's our turn, we also had a lot of time to think about our treatment of you and we realized we were in the wrong, so I apologize for that" Shigeri said.
Glancing away unable to meet those painfully bright eyes "Good luck to you then Shigeri-san and after the exams get over let them know I won't be coming back, however if you could drop off these lesson plans for me that would be great" Karin produced a scroll.
No longer that frightened girl from before and Shigeri took it "The hospital right, I'll make sure it's delivered" the boy nodded and the two girls returned to their previous places only to be surrounded by several people.
It was scary how many people were willing to protect those girls and Shigeri couldn't help the shudder that crawled down his spine, just as the first fight drew to a close, Naruto burst up out of the ground nailing Neji in the chin knocking the Hyuga out.
And with that Naruto Uzumaki had won "Sakura-chan, Sakura-chan did you see I finally beat that self-conceited jerk Neji, no offense Hinata-chan but he didn't deserve to call himself your family" the blonde rushed up to the stands where his teammates and friends were stood.
Practically throwing himself at Sakura, blue eyes bright and full of excitement at his unexpected but very pleasing victory "Baka you did well, congrats" the fuscia haired teen grinned hugging the twelve year old all he wanted.
While Hinata spluttered in quiet indignation "S..Still h..he is fa..family p..perhaps n..now though he'll change 's definitely a hope" the blue haired heiress finally sighed knowing that her crush was right, much like Sakura she didn't like conflict or people treating others badly.
But just this once she could agree with Naruto about how Neji was a jerk, hopefully now he would learn a little humility as he was carted away on a stretcher by medics and their proctor called up to them "Kankuro Sabaku of Sunagakure vs Shino Aburame of Konohagakure" Genma stated.
"Uh I don't feel so well so I think I'll just forfeit" Kankuro immediately raised his hand, dropping out of the final round, Sakura grit her teeth bloody bastard, she was so going to pound his face in, this was her village and she refused to let anyone run amok in it or destroy it.
Genma chewed on his senbon "Very well Shino wins by default as Kankuro has forfeited, next Tenten of Konohagakure vs Shikamaru Nara of Konohagakure unless either of you want to forfeit as well" the brunet raised a brow on them.
Next to Sakura, Shino silently radiated anger, kikaichu hissing to announce their hosts upset "No way I'm not forfeiting, I've worked to hard for this" Tenten outright refused as she jumped the railing of the stand, Shikamaru slumped his shoulders but headed after her.
Probably going to forfeit at the last possible minute to conserve as much chakra as he could "Right if your ready let the third match begin" Genma declared, bringing his hand down as he did so and the two combatants jumped back away from each other.
In the stands Sakura rested a hand on Shino's shoulder "I know you probably trained hard Shino and I'd be frustrated to, but don't he's not worth it" the pinkette whispered quietly for his ears alone and the hissing of the kikaichu lessened until they could no longer be heard.
"Why is you that treated me normally first, was it because I was the only one that you could count on to know insects well or another vendetta of some reason" the Aburame heir frowned finally unleashing the questions he'd always wanted to ask but hadn't.
Jade eyes softened "Because Shino I wanted to be your friend, truly, I had no vendetta or ulterior motives, none at all" Sakura informed with a smile, genuine through and through, the boy at her side sighed softly then seemed to come to some sort of decision.
"Know then that I will fight at your side should this degenerate into all out war, that's what has you so on edge isn't it, why because everyone can feel the tension brewing" Shino announced in a soft tone of voice not wanting anyone else to hear him, only Sakura.
His kikaichu were never noticed after all and he'd learned all kinds of things, Sakura nodded with a grim sort of look on her face, not speaking merely peering down into the arena where Shikamaru was half-assed fighting Tenten.
Ultimately forfeiting as she suspected he would when he had her captured in his shadow, Sakura clenched her hands into fists, only three more fights to go and then it would be her turn "Guess I better start heading down then" the blonde heiress heaved a sigh.
Looking like she was about to be sick but not willing to forfeit just because she was nervous, "Sakura before I forget, Ni-san wanted me to tell you something" the second Uchiha heir suddenly said making the girl jump and swing around to face him.
As Dosu grudgingly followed after his opponent still thinking about what had been said to him, then on their heels were Sasuke and Sakura who waited until the duo were marching towards the proctor before activating a privacy seal "Alright Sasuke what did Itachi say" Sakura inquired.
"To be careful and that he trusts you whatever that means, he's up in the Kage booth with Lord Hokage, Lord Kazekage and Naruto's Father, Shisui's up there as well" Sasuke repeated what he'd been told and Sakura's features morphed into one of horror.
"Up In The Kage Booth is he insane, that's not the Kazekage, that's bloody Orochimaru, I thought Minato-san would have told them un..unless it's their plan" the rosette shrieked, on the verge of hyperventilating not liking the thought that Itachi plus others were so close to danger.
Sasuke felt all the air whoosh out of him as his skin went from sun-kissed to near bone white from fear "Calm down Sakura I'm sure they have a good plan, believe in them as Itachi-ni does for you" the raven haired preteen tried to sooth.
But his efforts weren't nearly as effective as he wanted them to be as Sakura slid into a sitting position "Fear not girl, I'll be heading up there as well soon" then the real Kazekage was before her, appearing in a swirl of gold dust.
Her head snapped up to take the man in "Please Kazekage-sama don't let anything happen to them I couldn't bare it if they got hurt, especially Itachi, I…I love him" Sakura requested in an urgent tone before coming to a startling revelation.
The Kazekage drew in a short breath and closed his eyes "You have my word Sakura-san, they will not come to harm at Orochimaru's hands, not even your beloved" Rasa vowed, then he was gone in a swirl of gold dust.
Leaving the genin behind "I had no idea Sakura, come on we should probably get back up there before Ino complains that we missed her entire fight" Sasuke grunted, heaving Sakura onto her feet and they hurried back up the steps.
To find Ino managing pretty well considering who her opponent was "What took you so long" the blonde of their team whined, Sakura patted him on the head like she would an overactive puppy but turned to watch the rest of her friend's fine.
In the end though Ino lost as Dosu knocked her out, he wasn't cruel about it though, not boasting or anything of the like as his opponent was carted away by medics then he was up the stands again, as he passed by her, she looked over her shoulder discretely and he nodded silently.
Dosu was officially on their side, Sakura nodded back and the whole moment between them went unseen by the rest of the genin crowded up in the stands "A..After you Sasuke" Hinata realized it was her turn and politely allowed Sasuke to head down the stairs first.
"No, together Hinata, just because we're opponents doesn't mean we have to regard each other as merely acquaintances, we're friends" the second Uchiha heir shook his head, Hinata fidgeted nervously but relented.
So together they headed down the steps side by side "Ju..Just so you kn..know I don't intend on t..taking it easy on you" the blue haired heiress warned before the duo got to far, Sakura snickered to herself and then both combatants were facing each other down in the arena.
Sakura watched as the fight began, Hinata had really changed, and while she still got nervous, still stuttered, she'd grown strong as well, but ultimately when everything boiled down to it, Sasuke triumphed at the last second and won their match.
Hinata smiled kindly at the Uchiha she'd never fan girled over like most of their class, except for Sakura and later on Ino then the proctor was calling up to them again as the duo marched back up into the stands "Karin of Kusagakure vs Shigeri of Kusagakure" Genma listed.
Which signaled it was now time for the second to last match of the first round for the finals "Best of luck to you Karin-chan, I know you can win" Sakura threw her arms around the now extremely nervous redhead and whispered that in the girls ear before releasing her.
"Thanks Sakura-chan, come on Shigeri-san let's show them what Grass Shinobi are made of, even if this is my last day as a Kusagakure ninja" Karin declared boldly crimson orbs burning brightly with determination, fueled by Sakura's confident statement of how she could win.
One of the boys who'd already treated her badly nodded "Very well may the better shinobi win" Shigeri narrowed his eyes rising to the challenge the other girl now presented against him as they headed down into the arena like so many others had before them.
Genma looked between the two teens then brought his hand down starting the fight, Karin didn't hesitate and charged arm cocked back and hand made into a fist, Shigeri was a little surprised at her speed so before he could really get out of the way.
Her fist opened to slam palm first into his chest, Sakura gripped the railing tightly as Shigeri went flying backwards from an unknown source, or that's how it looked to many but the girl was an Uzumaki, she'd placed a seal on Shigeri that blasted him backwards across the arena.
Next to her Naruto shuddered "Who'd have thought Karin-chan could be so scary, since when" Naruto questioned in confusion completely unaware like most others, Sakura knew however and she turned with a grin.
Unafraid to tell him the truth "Karin-chan's an Uzumaki knucklehead and since she trained with your mom right alongside me" the rosette announced, silently enjoying the stunned faces of her friends especially Naruto who hurriedly turned to watch the fight again.
Blue eyes focused now to watch an Uzumaki in action since he'd learned his mother was never going to be able to give him a sibling, Karin wasn't done by a long shot as she didn't let Shigeri have any breathing room at all.
Launching into a complicated taijutsu maneuver Kushina must have taught the girl when no one was looking and slamming Shigeri multiple times, crimson orbs blazing as she then flashed through hand signs loosing an earth jutsu point blank at Shigeri.
Who went sailing backwards yet again, bleeding from contusions all along his body and probably in disbelief that Karin was managing so much, Sakura's hand tightened around the railing even more so now and it groaned in protest.
As for the finale Karin captured Shigeri in a genjutsu therefor winning her match "Winner of the fifth match Karin" their brunet haired proctor declared, Karin was practically jumping for joy as she joined the other final round contestants in the stand again.
Sakura relented with her abuse of the railing, heart calming as she did so surprisingly with a soft sigh she was down in the arena, Gaara moments after her using his sand to transport himself then they were both before the proctor.
Like he did for Karin and Shigeri, he looked between them to make sure they were ready to fight "Let the final match of the first round begin between Sakura Senju and Gaara Sabaku" Genma announced starting the match.
Immediately because Gaara didn't want to waste any time at all, sand trickled from his gourd and shot forward with deadly intent "Your going to have to do a lot better than that Gaara" Sakura informed pressing glowing fingers to her wrist seal.
Then in a small plume of smoke her custom made bo-staff was within hand, with a quick channeling of her water nature into the metal staff, Gaara's sand that he sent after her became useless "I see you will be an interesting opponent" Gaara commented in his gravely tone.
Not letting the fact that she'd found a way around his sand bother him or show on his face, she wouldn't last for long against him, "Much more interesting than you could ever hope to imagine" the rosette stated with a smile.
Focusing on the seal she'd stuck to the bottom of her sandal and unsealing the contents within, water gushed from the seal quickly changing the terrain to something more suitable "Mother doesn't want you dead for some reason" the redhead said in confusion.
Unsure of what he was actually or that it wasn't his mother telling him to kill people, Sakura grit her teeth "Because it's not your mother Gaara, it never has been, stop being so deluded and open your eyes for once" Sakura admitted.
Purposefully trying to push the kid's buttons otherwise her seal would never work, she had to put it on him in a half transformed state taking away his ability and preconceived notions about things were sure to upset him like he'd never been upset before.
And just by saying that Gaara was definitely angry "You know nothing" Gaara snarled sending dry sand after her and with a quick Suiton that to became rendered useless, Sakura had all the cards in her hands and she knew it.
"I know a lot more than you think Gaara, such as the fact you seem to think fighting only for yourself is what's right" the pinkette shot back with a straight face repeatedly ripping away all the things he held close in his very battered heart.
She knew it was the only way to help his heart truly mend "Emotions and bonds are for the weak" the auburn haired boy stated with an emotionless mask settled on his features, she shook her head pity and sympathy warring within her.
While also cussing out the boys father "Because you haven't had any that's why you think that way so I'm going to show you what bonds and emotions can do" Sakura drew herself up readying herself to really fight now that she'd truly upset the redhead.
As his features twisted in hatred, death in his pale green eyes "I'm going to kill you now" Gaara said utterly pissed off, good, with a smile she dashed forward, throwing her bo-staff, of course her opponent saw it as no threat to himself so merely left it alone.
That was his first mistake in a fight against her as it drew close to him while sand rushed up around her, "Suiton: Waterwall" she flew through the necessary hand signs, for not one but two jutsu and with her breathing apparatus dove beneath the water.
Hardly focusing as she transported herself to the seal on her metal bo-staff leaving her clone to deal with the sand, while she came up from under the water presence completely masked and as quickly as possible slammed a hand down on Gaara's gourd.
Marking it for all eternity, he swung around in surprise only to find her gone back to her original spot "You and your tricks piss me off, just die already" the scarlet haired preteen growled in an inhuman way that made goosebumps break out on her flesh.
But she shook it off knowing the beast was close to the surface "Aww do you not like it Gaara, to bad I'm not going to stand here and let you harm people that's important to me" Sakura looked him dead in the eye pissing him off further.
A much louder growl rumbled through the air in a threatening way and as Gaara was readying to send more sand after her, she focused on the seal she'd left behind "Wha.?" Gaara was visibly surprised yet again as he appeared someplace else.
Sakura was ready for him and with a mighty punch that shattered his sand armor he went flying backwards to land flat on his back in the ankle deep water that covered the entire arena, soaking him all the way through.
It was the final straw it seemed as Gaara roared in fury and in pain "There we go Gaara express yourself" the pinkette nodded in satisfaction, as he began his transformation from human to beast, up in the Kage booth, Minato, Hiruzen and the fake Kazekage that was actually Orochimaru all leaned forward.
Watching as the young girl reappeared at Gaara's side flying through hand signs without a seconds hesitation, entrapping the young Sunagakure shinobi in the water prison jutsu and with extreme force shoved her hand through her water prison.
To press a seal to his chest, with a simple hand sign the one tail beast sealed within Gaara was suppressed forcefully "WHAT DID YOU DO" the redhead screamed with startling clarity in his eyes for the first time since he'd been six.
"What should have been done a long time ago Gaara, I separated your chakra from the tailed beast inside of you, giving you control over that which has long haunted you and made you what you are" Sakura explained calmly.
Undoing her jutsu with caution ready to fight should he attack again but Gaara was calm, calmer than any of his village had ever seen before "But how and I don't understand why" Gaara looked like nothing more than a lost little boy now and her heart ached for him.
"A seal to suppress the tailed beast, tweaked by one of the villages resident fuinjutsu masters and because I hate seeing people hurt by the people that should care for them" the rosette informed relaxing just a little even if there was still Orochimaru to worry about.
Gaara's eyes widened in shock the most emotion his siblings or sensei had seen in a long, long time as for Rasa he was deeply ashamed of himself if only he'd sought out help then perhaps his own son wouldn't have turned out that way.
Even admitted his fears or concerns that maybe he wouldn't have allied himself with Orochimaru of all people, Gaara gripped his shirt in hand "Considering the circumstances I believe it would be prudent if I forfeited this match against Sakura" the redhead bowed out with as much grace as he could.
There was a three second pause of utter silence before the arena erupted with a cacophony of noise, Genma chuckled hardly able to believe that Kakashi's kunoichi had taken out the second biggest threat to their village and raised his hand.
"As Gaara has forfeited, Sakura Senju wins, there will be a fifteen minutes break to decide on how the match up will be for the second round of the finals….." Genma began but unfortunately an enraged Orochimaru interrupted.
Sakura turned sharply at the feeling of unknown chakra coming up underneath her "GOTCHA" someone she didn't recognize burst up out of the ground snatching her up, and before anyone could help her she was trapped in a barrier with Orochimaru and the others.
"Fuck this is already not going how we expected" Shisui cursed unexpectedly and she shot him a glare, trying not to pass out as KI bore down on her, not to mention she was held to Orochimaru, it wasn't exactly comfortable as his grip was tight.
She met Itachi's gaze with wide eyes, he shook his head "Come now girl, I heard from Hoshigaki that you have the Lord Hashirama's kekkeigenkai in your blood, show me" Orochimaru requested forcefully, grip tightening to almost crushing.
While war raged on down below in the village "Stuff it Orochimaru cause I ain't doing nothing for you" Sakura spat, changing the nature of her chakra to lightning and unleashing it onto Orochimaru, who grunted in pain and let go of her on reflex.
Minato took that chance to use his seal to get her to safety "Brave but foolish" Minato sighed, Sakura grimaced but kept close to him regardless as Itachi inched towards them as well, she gave him the most reassuring smile that she could given the situation anyway.
Orochimaru was most notably angered over the fact she'd managed to escape from him "You've ruined everything you meddlesome girl, and I'll have you come with me one way or another" the Snake Sannin raged, flying through unfamiliar hand signs.
"Huh that's, the Impure World: Reanimation Jutsu" Hiruzen immediately figured out what his old student was doing to late as coffins emerged on the roof, Sakura felt her heart stall in her chest, she nearly stopped breathing to.
For when the lids of the coffins fell the contents within were revealed to be very familiar people, people she'd only read about, it was to this that a cold sweat broke out over her body as she realized it was a very real possibility they were going to have to fight the two un-dead Hokage.
"Calm down there Sakura, we won't let Orochimaru get his hands on either you or Otouto" Itachi seemed to notice that she was overwhelmed by the reanimation's presence, given the way her skin was pale and she looked like she was about to pass out as well.
She was more scared than he'd ever seen her before "Best not forget about me Orochimaru oh that's right you thought you'd already killed me isn't that right" then Rasa appeared having been in hiding until that exact moment.
Gold dust rushed around the Snake Sannin and began squeezing "Well Sarutobi this is a surprise, I never thought the jutsu I devised would be used on myself" Tobirama grunted leaping away from the person who'd brought him back, brother at his side.
Until they stood on either side of their old student, Sakura nearly passed out then feeling not one or two but five Kage class chakra but she held on through sheer will even as Orochimaru managed to escape from the gold dust and retreat quite a distance from them.
Outmatched to his frustration as his plan to destroy the Leaf Village crumbled around him, the civilians were being transported to safety, the shinobi of his most hated village was fighting back against his troops to easily and Gaara his ace was unusable.
Angered more than he thought possible Orochimaru began his attack on the Third Hokage anyway and Sakura stood back with Itachi and Shisui just watching, completely on edge, she wouldn't even dare to consider relaxing in this sort of situation.
That's why when Orochimaru somehow managed to break through, elongating his head as snakes came up to wrap around the Uchiha's on either side of her, Sakura couldn't help the scream as Orochimaru's head shot towards her.
Mouth open in a gruesome horrifying display, "Sakura Move" the Uchiha heir ordered harshly, just a little to late and Orochimaru's mouth clamped down on her shoulder, fortunately Sakura wasn't normal by any means herself.
Because wood burst from her shoulder preventing Orochimaru from sinking his fangs in her flesh, Orochimaru looked the most surprised as he drew back spitting out bits of wood "So Hoshigaki wasn't just spewing lies" Orochimaru commented.
Returning the length of his neck to normal proportions "Your fight is with us Orochimaru leave her out of this" Rasa ordered, commanding his gold dust to attempt to capture the sannin yet again in it's grip in order to immobilize the man without success as Orochimaru escaped again.
So the battle raged on until Orochimaru managed to commandeer the First and Second Hokage's with a tag he shoved into their heads turning the tide in his favor a little it was three on three now, until the Third Hokage made the ultimate sacrifice.
"At least try to prevent them from getting in the way Kazekage" Hiruzen sighed speeding through hand signs at a rapid pace, Rasa nodded seriously re-concentrating his efforts on trying to capture the two reanimated Hokage instead of Orochimaru.
Hiruzen finished his hand signs in record time as Rasa immobilized Hashirama and Tobirama in his gold dust successfully this time and Orochimaru charged his old sensei, shocking however was the fact that all of a sudden it felt like his soul was being ripped out.
Everyone watched on in horror as Orochimaru practically regurgitated a sword and it went straight through the Hokage, Sakura felt her heart jolt and she turned into Itachi who'd freed himself of the snakes, his arms came up to wrap around her as an agonized scream came from Orochimaru.
Whose arms were stolen from him preventing him from using another jutsu it came with a heavy price though as the Snake Sannin made his retreat, plan to destroy the Leaf in shambles but at least he'd managed to take out the person he hated more than anyone.
His old sensei Hiruzen Sarutobi and as the barrier that they'd all been trapped in was lowered and the Sound Shinobi who'd invaded their village retreated all those on the roof gathered around the fallen Hokage even the two reanimation's who were free of Orochimaru's control now.
The old man coughed and beckoned to the lone girl on the roof "Sakura-chan before I go I just wanted to let you know th..that you should be pr..proud of yourself a..and that the will of f..fire bu..burns brightly wi..within you, never let it die out understand" Hiruzen wheezed.
Blood trickling from his mouth and despite the fact that she was obviously crying, Sakura knelt "Understood Hokage-sama I vow to uphold your last order for me and never let my fire die out, I swear to pass it on to the next generation to" Sakura nodded.
Drying her eyes but the tears kept coming "Minato I h..hate to ask b..but t..take care of the vi..village u..until Tsunade c..can be found and brought back" the Hokage turned to Minato next, who bowed his head in understanding.
Keeping a straight face given the circumstances as Hiruzen smiled kindly and the light from his eyes faded, Sakura broke then and began crying in earnest complete with heart-breaking sobs "Come on Sakura-chan, Hokage-sama wouldn't want you to cry like that" Shisui scolded.
Hating the sound of her crying more than anything in the world, Sakura's head snapped to him, face streaked with tears and eyes bloodshot from the great emotional upheaval she was experiencing right now the sobs did stop though.
And she lowered her gaze onto the Hokage she'd cared very deeply for, he'd been like a grandpa to her and every one of her generation after all "Poor Konohamaru he's going to be heartbroken" the rosette finally sniffled.
Minato sighed softly "I'm sure all of your friends are worried so what do you say we go find them and make sure their alright, including those two you call your teammates" Itachi smiled gently and held out his hand for her to take.
Sakura wiped her eyes but she already looked like quite the wreck and took the proffered hand letting Itachi help her onto her feet just as hands grabbed her shoulders "Hold on just a minute this is the Senju clan crest so why do you wear it" the voice of Hashirama exclaimed.
Immediately the young girl froze more than a little wary considering his current state as a reanimation "Because Lord First, Sakura-chan here is your great, great Granddaughter" the Uchiha who'd spoken earlier sniggered.
Realizing Sakura was now getting the chance of a life time to meet her family on her mother's side "That explains it why that shinobi was after you girl, how you utilized Anija's wood style jutsu though I didn't see you weave hand signs" Tobirama cut in.
The girl ducked her head under his probing gaze "A..Actually it just came out on it's own, due to my emotions" Sakura admitted quietly more than a little nervous in their presence, only to blink warily as Hashirama threw his head back and laughed boisterously.
"Joyous new day Tsuna-chan has a granddaughter" the raven haired Hokage looked like he was on cloud nine, Sakura shot a dubious look at Tobirama who pressed his lips into a thin line signaling to her that this was nothing new.
Hashirama jerked her off her feet in the next second swinging her around like some kind of rag-doll "Anija put her down" the white haired Hokage demanded when the girl began looking a little green around the gills.
But thankfully she was sat on her feet again and Sakura latched onto Itachi shoving down the urge to vomit at the same time, Itachi chuckled softly, he only turned when someone else appeared on the roof with them, Minato paled at the sight of his wife.
Even worse was that Mikoto and Mebuki were with her, fortunately none of them looked angry "Sakura-chan are you alright" Mebuki was the first one to her daughter, while Mikoto went to Itachi and Kushina to him.
Sakura let her gaze soften "I'm okay Mom, what about you, Hanami, Dad, please tell me nothings happened to my little sibling either, where's Zabuza" Sakura rambled worriedly, hands glowing green to check the child growing in her mother's womb.
Mebuki huffed out a little laugh "Yes, yes we're all fine, though Haku did get hit with a rather nasty Raiton Jutsu, Karin-chan healed him with her special gift of her own free will, so Zabuza's with him, Hanami is with Kimiko in the Uchiha Compound, with your Father" the blonde said.
Watching as the tension drained out of her daughter in one fell swoop "Don't be such a worrywart Sakura-chan everyone's fine" Mikoto chided gently having assured herself that Itachi was fine before turning to her future daughter in law.
The girl flushed red "So I'm a worrywart with good reason Mikoto-san, this whole thing could have been a disaster" the pinkette huffed lightly sinking into a light depression, Itachi chuckled, Sakura really was the sweetest.
"You used the mystical palm just now" Hashirama commented in realization, his great, great granddaughter was talented, Sakura nodded quietly staring at her hands in mild frustration, but that soon gave way to determination.
No matter what she would master the mystical palm, "Looks like you could use a nap huh Sakura-chan by the way that was some fight, I had no idea you were going to do it that way" Kushina joined the growing circle of females to the males wariness.
"Indeed just how did you figure my son's sand would be rendered useless with water and how exactly did you manage to get enough water to change the terrain of the arena" Rasa inquired having been quiet thus far.
Sakura looked at him "Just a random thought actually and I drew a seal on the bottom of my sandal and sealed a large quantity of water in it for the fight, oh that reminds me" the rosette suddenly remembered as she focused on her seal.
And then a second later her custom made bo-staff was in her hand "But still Sakura-chan did you have to purposefully push the kid's buttons like you did and piss him off" Shisui grunted not liking the stunt she'd pulled.
Rasa's brow twitched in remembrance "Whose buttons did you push exactly" Tobirama questioned as they started making their way off the roof, what was surprising however was that the young girl stayed glue to the Uchiha who'd held her to him.
Then they were down in the arena and with a quick hand sign the water was sealed away in the seal again, "Gaara's, Kazekage-sama's youngest child…..and a Jinchuuriki" Sakura informed relenting after only a moment in which she got permission to reveal the not so kept secret.
Hashirama and Tobirama stared at her in horror just as said boy appeared before them, rather walked towards them since his sand was still rather useless "Father, Temari and Kankuro, they ran off into the forest and haven't returned" Gaara stated.
Peering at Sakura who gave him a small smile while Rasa sighed "Come to think of it neither have Naruto or Sasuke, or Shino or Shikamaru" Kakashi jumped down and the smile immediately dropped off Sakura's face.
"Idiots probably got themselves in trouble somehow" Sakura scoffed as she dug roughly in her pouch for a chakra replenishing ration bar, Itachi gave her a long suffering look but she scarfed the bar anyway "Don't worry I'll be careful" she promised.
Flashing through hand signs for her own original Mokuton jutsu, wanting to show off just a little bit, wooden wings sprouted from her back and she was airborne "Where the hell did she learn that one" Mebuki cursed suddenly.
"Let's go Gaara to prevent that girl from finding herself in any sort of trouble that might be out there waiting for her" Rasa pinched the bridge of his nose in frustration, just thankful that his youngest son was in control of himself for once and they to were off.
Not that it took long before the former First and Second Hokage's were following after themselves, they arrived with the Kazekage and his son as Sakura touched down near a boy "Sakura ..is that you, why because you've never displayed an ability like that" the boy asked unsure of himself.
"Yep it's me Shino, trust me and I've always had this but up until recently I had to hide it, the net time a see a certain fish I'm going to punch him in the face for ousting it, anyway looks like the poison's just about out of you thanks to your kikaichu" Sakura nodded.
Grumbling to herself for a moment before returning her attention onto her friend as her hands glowed green yet again checking on his condition "Why keep it secret why because it's almost like you didn't trust us those you call friends" Shino frowned.
Sakura flinched "Believe me Shino for the first seven years I couldn't and for the six months that I've been able to we've all been busy being genin, plus I'm one out of three people that can use this kekkeigenkai so imagine for a moment what kind of people would be after me if they learned I had one" the rosette huffed.
Behind Shino was his Father who snorted lightly "Your friend has a point son, right those teammates of yours headed on deeper into the forest with Shikaku's boy, after the Kazekage's eldest children" Shibi chuckled then gave up all the information he knew.
The girl straightened spread out her senses then was off others hot on her heels until they ran smack into another genin "Ouch Sakura could be a little less you right now, my whole body hurts thank you very much and it's such a drag" Shikamaru groaned.
Reeling from the pain he was experiencing courtesy of those bloody Sound Shinobi "Quit your whining Shikamaru" Sakura rolled her eyes hands glowing green yet again, Shikamaru let the tension drain out of him as some of his pain started going away.
He was about to sigh in relief when someone unexpected showed up "Their ahead being fools" Dosu Kinuta, Ino's opponent growled and he was rigid again but Sakura didn't look the least bit concerned at his presence.
She even stopped the others from attacking Dosu "He's no threat Kazekage-sama, anyway your going to be just fine Shikamaru, go check on Ino, Choji just don't get underfoot" the pinkette assured sending the Nara heir on his merry way.
Shikamaru was all to happy to get the flak out of dodge as he saw that look on her face the one that told him Naruto and Sasuke and whoever else was left out here was about to get a dressing down the likes of which they'd never heard before.
Dosu though hesitant kept pace with the girl he'd betrayed everything for, Orochimaru was most likely to be upset but he just couldn't find it in himself to care anymore "You know Senju-san that allying yourself with a Sound Shinobi is foolish" Rasa the Kazekage commented from behind.
All he got for his effort was a light glare, Hashirama chuckled under his breath at this, oh yes this girl reminded him so much of Tsunade it was unbelievable while Tobirama and Gaara kept their expressions rather passive.
Until they finally found where the others were and they were in the midst of an all out brawl, Sakura crossed her arms over her chest, tapped her foot patiently for a moment but neither of her teammates took notice nor did Temari or Kankuro.
When five minutes had passed she shook her head then stomped her foot forcefully, creating a foot wide, seven foot long fissure that got their attention immediately, Dosu leaned clear away from her at this "Ehehehe Sakura-chan when did you get here" Naruto laughed awkwardly.
Feeling a cold chill crawl down his spine, Sasuke however went as pale as a ghost "Get lost you flat-chested pink haired freak with no sex appeal" Temari spat not liking that the other girl was there now that all eyes were on her.
Sakura barred her teeth furiously and shot a look at the Kazekage "Father what are you doing here" Kankuro inched away realizing they were royally screwed as Sakura stalked forward, looking like she was about to murder someone.
Emerald orbs glinting "Well at least I don't try to force myself on men that reject me so what if I'm flat-chested looks aren't everything and your just jealous so you know what get over it cause news flash Temari-san you can't get everything you want just because you throw a fit" Sakura shot back.
Temari flinched back at the harsh words "Here I thought you wouldn't say such things" Rasa grimaced, Sakura huffed eyes flashing with unbridled anger, clearly Tsunade's legendary temper was running through her veins.
But apparently that wasn't enough to really get through to his daughter who raised her hand teal eyes filled with her own anger and went to strike Sakura for the second time "Your just a nobody, I bet you manipulated him into being betrothed to you" Temari spat.
Immediately her hand was caught in a tight grip "Um actually my brother was the one who had to convince her to give the betrothal a shot" Sasuke chimed in standing clear away from his future sister in law with the knucklehead.
The blonde who'd been giving them so much trouble reeled back at that hurt plastered all over her face "Do you have to be such a bitch to her like seriously give my sister a break will ya" Kankuro snapped and the girl turned just as quickly on him.
"So I'm supposed to let her verbally and physically attack me, sorry no, I'm not someone who takes things lying down thank you very much, truth is a harsh mistress and if you guys can't accept that then that's not my problem" Sakura informed bluntly.
Behind her Hashirama chuckled lightly under her breath "Sure is spirited isn't she Tobirama like Tsunade had been when she was that age" Hashirama whispered to his brother watching the girl handle herself like she'd been doing it for years.
As she all to suddenly faced her teammates, both of them seemed to know what was coming and shared pitying looks with one another "Indeed, perhaps we'll actually get to see this one grow up" Tobirama nodded, quirking his lips up into a smile as the girl let loose with a mega scolding.
"You two are the most idiotic, reckless moron's known to man Naruto, Sasuke, I would have thought by now you'd have learned not to jump into dangerous situations without at least a freaking plan but No your still….oooh you two make me so mad sometimes" Sakura raged.
Just like that the fight left her "Don't think your being let off with just this warning Naruto, Sasuke I will get you for worrying the hell out of me and that you can count on" the rosette warned to both very pale boys who nodded their heads eagerly in response.
"We're really sorry Sakura-chan we didn't know what was going on actually" the blonde grinned sheepishly and Sakura sighed looking the most tired he'd seen her since academy graduation exams, she'd probably been worrying about this day all month.
Sasuke grimaced "Truly Sakura, if we'd known we probably would have gone straight to the shelters or something" the ebony haired preteen admitted carefully hoping to give Sakura some peace of mind, Sakura gave him a dubious look in response.
"Come on you brainless wonders I've been through enough to last a lifetime and I'm quite ready to go to bed" Sakura snorted, exhaustion shining through now as the lot of them made the trek back through the forest.
"If I'd known how scary you were going to be, I wouldn't have let them run off like I had" Dosu commented partway there, a slender pink brow rose in response before she shook her head not even wanting to know right now.
Then they were back with the others and to say Kushina and Mikoto were happy with their sons was a complete and utter load of crap, they were both dragged away by their ears, both temperamental women practically screeching in their ears.
"By the way Sakura-chan, your family is at home alongside Karin-chan, those two Zabuza and Haku are as well, as is Kimiko" Mikoto hollered before she got to far then disappeared from sight, Sakura winced joy dealing with little kids was not high on her list right now.
But they deserved to get some hugs just so they know she's okay "Temari, Kankuro, Gaara we'll go to the hotel" Rasa commanded leading his own children away, Gaara ever silent, but he wasn't the same anymore, perhaps now he'd be able to rectify his mistakes, it would take a long time though.
"Lead the way then Sakura-chan, I am so looking forward to seeing what your house looks like, tell me does your little sister also have the kekkeigenkai, do you think the one in your mothers womb will be able to do it as well, you did say three" Hashirama chattered suddenly.
And she gave him a wide eyed look, clearly not up to having a chatterbox on her hands off to the side the Second Hokage shook his head "Anija she's tired, let her rest before you bombard her with questions" Tobirama rolled his eyes.
Hashirama had the grace to look sheepish and Sakura wondered if there wasn't someway to alter the appearance of the seal so they didn't look as if they were about to fall apart, it was a thought for later as they made the trek across the village to her house.
Partway there someone flew down in front of them "Sakura-chan I was worried when that guy grabbed you and took off with you" it was another redhead and she immediately threw her arms around Sakura crimson orbs filled with tears.
"There, there Karin-chan I'm fine just a bit tired, but we really should get home, pretty sure Hanami's gonna give me an earful" Sakura yawned, patting the other girl on the shoulder gently, Karin drew back and took her place on one side of her friend.
Dosu was on the other and the revived Kage's as she realized were a couple paces behind them as they finally reached the house, the door was flung open at their appearance and a dark pink haired six year old marched down the path towards them.
"Onee-chan I was scared, how come you didn't come home right away, your not hurt are you, maybe you should go to the hospital, why did it take you so long, how come that guy took you away…" and began firing off questions in rapid succession.
Until a gentle hand was pressed over her mouth "Hanami-chan sorry for not coming home right away, I had to get Naruto and Sasuke, I'm fine just tired and those two dorks were pretty far into the forest as for that last question, I'll hold off for a bit" the rosette bent.
Shushing her little sister gently who peered up at her with tear filled blue eyes "Don't ever do it again whatever you did okay" Hanami sniffled realizing she was joined by her best friend who looked just as upset as she did.
Sakura ruffled their hair and heaved them onto her hips "It's hard to keep promises Hanami-chan but I'll do my best, now what do you say we all go in and have a nap" Sakura said, redirecting the conversation onto something both young girls would agree with.
Karin watched as Sakura nodded to her parents then vanished upstairs "Well looks like we have even more residents, yeesh maybe we should have asked for more rooms to be made" Kizashi chuckled seeing the extras standing in the foyer.
Though he did wonder it was a question for later as the lot of them went to bed minus the two reanimated shinobi who stayed up all night keeping a vigilant watch over the house just in case someone came back to make another attempt on the village.