The next morning dawned bright and early, Sakura sat up in her bed for the first time in over two weeks with a stretch before excitement filled her at being home and completing her first outside the village mission, even though she wouldn't dare tell her family what had almost happened.
"Look who's awake, Sakura-chan you must have been super tired last night, you barely spoke at all to us, we tried to ask you what happened but it was like you were asleep before you ever went to your room" Koeda greeted her in the kitchen.
Making breakfast with her mother "Indeed Sakura-chan so will you tell us now, how your mission went, also you've got a few letters, and a message from Darui-san" Mebuki reminded since she hadn't had a chance to say last night.
Sakura blushed "Sorry Oba-chan, Koeda-chan, it was a long exhausting mission, we had to protect a bridge builder while he finished his bridge and bandits came after him" Sakura said, that's all she'd admit, they didn't need to know that she'd been kidnapped or nearly killed after all.
"Geez it's the zombie from last night, you sure you should be up Sakura-chan" Kizashi appeared in the next moment pale pink hair in complete disarray like usual and flopped down in his chair at the kitchen table.
His niece blushed yet again "Just a super long mission is all, kind of boring actually" Sakura smiled brightly seating herself properly and gracefully at the table like her Uncle, and waiting patiently for breakfast to finish.
Five minutes before food was declared done, Eda flew into the kitchen "Overslept did I miss anything, welcome home Sakura-chan" Eda threw his arms around his cousin, just glad that she was home, even if soon she'd have her own apartment.
It was then Sakura noticed the absence of Koron and Kyogo "Did something happen, were they called back to the Capital" the pinkette frowned deeply not use to not seeing the two samurai guards that had been with her since she'd decided she wanted to be a shinobi.
Kizashi shared a glance with his wife "Juhi called them back a week ago, they said they'd be back when it's time for us to go off traveling again to sell our wares" Kizashi answered stuffing his face full of the omelet.
"Not only that but your Mother and Father said yes to your question, that's the message Darui-san left, about available apartments both in the civilian and shinobi sections of the village" Mebuki offered and Sakura's eyes lit up.
To Sakura it probably felt as if she'd been waiting forever to get some sort of response "You're gonna move out huh, I wish I had that kind of courage, but then again it's not like you'd be alone" Koeda grimaced wishing her teammates would share with her to, but they were such mommy boys it was honestly ridiculous.
Eda sniggered "Are you still gonna come visit us here Sakura-chan, cause I'll miss you" the little blonde pouted in the next moment as he realized that he wouldn't get to spend a lot of time with his cousin anymore.
Her emerald orbs softened "Of course Eda-kun, I'd miss you to, but those boys, Naruto and Sasuke need someone to welcome them home since they don't have anyone" Sakura reminded gently, that was her biggest reasoning.
And then she was finishing up breakfast, washing and drying her dishes and putting the dishes away before snatching up the letters that had been sent, the message that had been left behind by Darui and vanished to her room to read them, first was the one from her parents.
~My Princess,
I was overjoyed to receive a letter from you once again, even though you write to us at the end of every week it still feels like a lifetime before we hear from you again, even if it is for a rather serious matter.
Hmm, it is quite the request my dear, you moving in with two boys that aren't your betrothed, however if Darui-san has already given you permission and understands that you have reasons for wanting this then.
Yes you can move in with your two friends and teammates, especially since they are basically alone and like you said have no one to welcome them home after a long day of missions or training, or have someone to cook them proper meals.
Now I'll hand you over to your Mother, as she is impatient to write you just as I was, we'll be eagerly awaiting your next letter my Princess and now here is your Mother writing to you as well on a dual letter from both of us.
-My sweet blossom-
Pleased to hear from you at long last, I'll keep my message short, keep safe, don't do anything reckless, listen to your sensei even if he drives you crazy, complete your missions without complaining and be strong.
From your Father and Mother~
Glad that at least ninety percent of her family was okay with her sudden harebrained idea, Sakura set her attention on the second letter, the one that was written by her older brother and she was equally excited to read what he said.
~Little Sis
Been awhile huh, I feel as if we've drifted apart a bit since I chose Hiretsuna-chan even if you send me weekly letters, you haven't been home in what feels like forever, that's why if I can convince Mother and Father within the next few weeks I might come to Leaf.
For awhile, see things from your perspective so that we can reconnect and whatnot and don't worry I won't bring Hiretsuna-chan, though she's accepted the fact you're a ninja and won't be quitting anytime soon, she still can be annoying.
Anyway I really do miss you Imouto-chan and seeing you do all your ninja tricks, maybe you could teach me a little bit more like when you got me the fuinjutsu books, perhaps this time that tree climbing exercise or something.
Right I have lessons in about twenty minutes so I'm going to cut the letter short this time as opposed to the long ones we usually write back and forth to each other, hope to hear from you soon and a visit is in your foreseeable future.
From your loving brother Musubime Haruno~
Her eyes were wide and full of excitement at the letter and she hoped he could convince their parents to allow him awhile off from his lessons and whatnot so that they could visit and reconnect like he'd said in letter, with that she turned her attention on Darui's message.
~Sakura
Wish I could be there when you get back from your mission, but I know that I won't be, anyway heard from your parents ahead of time, you got permission to share a large apartment with those boys like you wanted.
Gonna keep this message short so I don't take up much of your time, went out and found about three apartments, each with three bedrooms, three bathrooms, kitchen, dining room, living room, large backyard to yourself and one extra room in each for activities.
That's it good luck on your quest to keep those boys in line and I'll see you sometime whenever I'm sent to Leaf again, Cee might come with me next time, I'll also be waiting for a letter on how your first outside mission went.
Darui~
With that Sakura quickly got to writing out her usual letters to her family and Darui of course, but when she went to call out to Koron, she realized that Koron was gone and sat back confused for several minutes because she didn't know where to go for the messenger birds of the village.
Thankfully Koeda chose that moment to appear in her room "Took you long enough, oh right Koron-chan has the phoenix summons scroll, I'll take you to the messenger bird's are so you can send your letters" the older pinkette offered.
And her cousin jumped at the chance "Your the best Koeda-chan and yeah took me awhile to read through the letters and message, plus respond" Sakura clapped collecting her four individual letters instead of two like it had been last time since Darui had been with her.
Moments later after Koeda telling her parents where they were going, they headed out the door and down the streets of the Leaf Village to send the letters and soon they were off, Sakura watched them go and hoped they reached their destinations with no problems.
It was as they were walking back to the house that Sakura remembered and groaned out loud "Is something the matter Sakura-chan" Koeda frowned concerned that her younger cousin wasn't feeling well after her first big mission.
"Fine Koeda-chan, I just remembered one of the bandits on the mission that was after our client wanted me to send this off to someone, it's his sword, he wants to be thought dead and this would be all the prove the person would need" Sakura sighed.
So they turned around, found a spot to sit and she wrote even more, becoming extremely elaborate with the letter before signing it with just her first name and who the letter was for, then it was sent off to the Hidden Mist Village with yet another messenger bird.
Done now they turned down the streets again and headed back to the house "Get all your letters sent Sakura-chan" Kizashi asked as his only niece flopped gracefully down on the couch and pulled out a book to read intending on relaxing for a good long while.
"Before I forget your sensei came by while you were gone, he says you have the next week off for completing your first mission outside the village to allow you and those boys time to rest before making you work even more" Mebuki announced from the kitchen.
Where she was pulling out ingredients and mulling over what she wanted to make for lunch that day "Good that will give me tomorrow to tell the boys about getting permission, chose an apartment from the list and move in during the rest of the week" Sakura grinned.
Excitement bubbling up within her, she might even go to the archives and search for her own personal summons so that she wouldn't have to rely on Hono all the time, since Koron would be gone for awhile.
"Aww I really am gonna miss you Sakura-chan" Eda pouted squishing himself between her and the couch, Sakura smiled brightly and gave him a side hug assuring him without words that she would be by to visit as often as possible.
The rest of the day passed by quickly as they spent time as only family could and before she knew it she was taking her nightly shower, dressing in one of her favored sleeping yukata's and crawling into her massive canopy bed to sleep.
Once she finished breakfast the next morning she was on the move "Gonna go find those boys, give them the news and whatnot" Sakura vanished out the door after strapping her sandals onto her feet, eager to give those boys what they needed most.
Partway to Naruto's apartment and as she was rounding a corner someone rammed into her "Watch it br…brat your back" it was Tonbo apparently he hadn't realized that she'd been back for a full day now.
Her lips curved upwards in amusement "Yep and glad to be back actually, that mission was rough, what with it turning into a sudden A Rank and nearly dying, really puts your life in perspective you know" Sakura chattered.
Tonbo froze "Nearly dying, how do you nearly die brat and what the hell was Hatake thinking continuing the mission when it became to difficult for genin to even….wait you completed it, the mission" Tonbo paused yet again.
"Mhm though someone lost their life and I died temporarily from getting impaled with senbon needles in several pressure points that stopped my heart for a bit, thought Sasuke was going to never stop fussing over me until we got back, Naruto just cried" Sakura grimaced.
Much like the Chunin before her did "Just what exactly were you doing to even be put in that kind of situation, would have thought Hatake would keep you out of the fight since that's all you complained about last month, not getting to join the training sessions" Tonbo grumbled.
Irritated that something had almost happened and he hadn't been around to stop it "I gave Kakashi-sensei no choice, took Sasuke's place because I was better suited to fighting our young opponent, and he finally acknowledged me so we're cool now" Sakura smiled again.
"Damn brat you and your bloody mood swings are giving me whiplash, got to go, see ya around" Tonbo snorted, then grumbled and with a little wave was gone in a poof of smoke, Sakura snickered quietly at his hasty departure before hurrying the rest of the way to Naruto's.
Who answered the door after the fifth knock, blonde hair sticking up in every which direction and peering at her blearily before he realized she was stood there waiting for him to properly wake up "S..Sakura-chan what are you doing here so early" Naruto yawned.
Sakura grinned fondly "Hurry up and get dressed, I'm taking you and Sasuke out for breakfast so I can tell you what my parents said in regards to what I suggested nearly three weeks ago" she ushered him back into his apartment.
That would soon be cleared out, at her statement his entire countenance brightened "Really Sakura-chan, what did they say, ooh don't tell me I want Teme to be with us to" Naruto was wide awake in the next moment.
Flashing towards his bedroom to hurriedly dress, brush his hair, his teeth and appear before her ten minutes later "I believe that's a new record Naruto" Sakura giggled lightly leading the way forward once Naruto had locked his apartment door.
"Oh boy this is exciting I hope it was a positive answer and we get to share an apartment together, wait where exactly are we going to live anyway, we don't have an apartment picked out or nothing" Naruto panicked in the next moment.
Earning a fond smile just as they reached Sasuke's house that would be sold, which would give them money to buy furniture and whatnot that they needed and knocked on the door "Bit early don't you think to be knocking on my door" Sasuke answered a minute later brow raised.
His answer was a slightly creepy smile from Sakura and an extremely goofy one from Naruto "Sakura-chan's parents sent a response, she's gonna take us out for breakfast and tell us what they said so get dressed Teme and hurry up, where are we going by the way" Naruto bounced up and down.
Sasuke didn't think twice and disappeared only to reappear ten minutes later dressed and ready for the day "Is it Ichiraku, I think I can sacrifice breakfast for ramen this morning" Sasuke questioned hoping beyond hope that it was a positive answer to the request.
"It's Ichiraku plus you can call it celebratory ramen, though I've already eaten and for the big news, they said yes, Darui-kun found a few apartments that would suit us well, all we have to do is go look, rent it, clear out your places, and move in" Sakura clapped her hands.
Cheers erupted from the two boys as they arrived at Ichiraku Ramen and ordered breakfast "Looks like I'll be selling my house, it was to big for me anyway, that way we have money to get what we need if we don't have it on hand" Sasuke commented.
Off to the side Naruto nodded "Exactly to bad I can't sell my apartment, it was just rented for me, nor can I take any of the stuff that was there before I arrived, which means I'll probably need a lot of stuff" Naruto slumped his shoulders.
Feeling like a mooch all of a sudden "Don't worry Naruto, we'll get you the stuff you need, that's what sharing with you two will be all about, showing you that people do care" Sakura patted the blonde on the back.
Just as his and Sasuke's ramen arrived "Sounds like you three have an eventful week ahead of you so good luck and congratulations" Teuchi chuckled lightly at the trio of preteens, who were some of his best customers.
Though he noticed one of them not eating and figured she'd already eaten that morning and was just treating the two boys before they were off to wherever "So where's the first apartment Darui-ni chose" Naruto practically bounced along after his friends/teammates in excitement.
Making Sakura laugh and look at the message that Darui had wrote to her, found the address and turned in a completely different direction "The first one is in the civilian section, though he said it was a pretty good apartment/house with all the requested plus extra" Sakura answered.
Leading the way carefully down the streets until they appeared before a very civilian house on the outskirts of the village, far away from the shinobi section "Err, we can check it out, but I'm not keen on being this far away from everything" Sasuke winced.
Thankfully Sakura and Naruto felt the same way as they went in after finding the key and looked around, in the end it was decided that apartment was not for them, even if it was super large and had great backyard space.
"On to the next, where's that one at Sakura-chan, not in the civilian section is it" the blonde sniggered and Sakura rolled her eyes lightly leading the way forward again as they headed towards the second apartment on the list.
Until once again they were stood before what was more than just an apartment, but practically a house, with a large fenced in area that indicated a lot of backyard space "Hmm and this one is kind of between civilian/shinobi, let's check it out" the raven haired preteen was infinitely more curious.
So they went in looked around and even checked out the backyard "I don't know, let's see what the last one is like before we make our official choice" the pinkette commented glancing back at what her mother would call the perfect home.
All cozy and it wasn't to far from her Aunt and Uncles, with that they headed forward again deep into the shinobi section of the village and arrived at the third and final choice, an apartment complex, but it had backyard space though it wasn't limited to just them.
They were allowed in, they checked the apartment out and made their choice "That one that's in between civilian/shinobi" Naruto announced it was perfect for them and it wouldn't interfere with anything since they'd be close to the market and shops.
"Yeah that one was my choice to, especially when I saw how big the backyard was, we can make it our own personal training grounds" Sasuke nodded in agreement looking to his sole female teammate waiting for her decision.
Which was basically the same as theirs "Agreed, plus it's just a few blocks away from my Aunt and Uncles so it's a win/win for all of us, now all that's left is to pack up, move and sell your place Sasuke" Sakura cheered.
In the end it had only taken an hour to really make their decision as they split up to complete their tasks so they could start moving in and be moved in before the end of their break "Did you find a place that worked for you Sakura-chan" Mebuki was in the living room this time.
"Mhm and it's only a few blocks away so Eda-kun can come visit anytime he wants" Sakura announced with a smile knowing he could hear since he was right there at his mother's side and at the news he lunged off the couch and tried to tackle her in a hug.
Good thing she was strong enough to hold him up despite him being nine year's old "Your awesome Sakura-chan thank you for considering my feelings and I'll be over to visit lots" Eda chattered a mile a minute.
Earning fond and amused smiles from his cousin/mother before he flushed and vanished to his room for awhile "Now you have to pack huh, need any help Sakura-chan" Koeda appeared from the kitchen having heard the conversation.
Sakura smiled brightly "Just try not to get into to much trouble Sakura-chan" Kizashi chuckled from the kitchen, she didn't have a clue what he was doing, but figured he was better left undisturbed as she headed to her own bedroom that she'd had for the last almost seven years.
Koeda on her heels and with the older pinkette's help all of her belongings were sealed away in homemade storage scrolls "Thanks Koeda-chan, now I'm going to go see if either of those boys need help packing" Sakura carefully stuffed the scrolls in her storage pouch.
Before she flounced out the door her older cousin waved and then she was on a straight path to Naruto's once again, because she knew the blonde would struggle the most, just like before though someone stepped in her way and she rammed into them.
"Clumsy today are we brat" it was Iwashi this time and Sakura peered up at the Chunin with a goatee a light glare in her viridian irises because she couldn't be sure he hadn't stepped in her way on purpose.
Never knew with him or Tonbo, or Kotetsu actually, Izumo was about the only one that had a rather kind countenance to him, and Genma was just plain weird "Maybe, then again I wouldn't be so clumsy if people would stop ramming into me on purpose" Sakura snorted.
Picking herself up off the ground carefully and dusting her dark green thigh length shorts off from any dirt that had gotten on them in her fall, Iwashi scoffed "Don't know what your talking about brat, Tonbo already told me by the way" Iwashi raised a brow.
And now it made sense, he was worried "I'm fine, I can heal myself you know, besides despite all that happened we completed the mission and came back, though with different outlooks on life" Sakura straightened properly.
Iwashi curled his lip "Try not to do anything else that might end up with you nearly dying again brat, oh and words of caution keep your wits about you during these next several weeks" Iwashi cautioned and just like that he was gone.
Leaving behind a confused preteen, before she shook her head and finished making her way to Naruto's, who as she'd already guessed was having a time of it packing up this things "Need any help" Sakura asked leaning against the wall.
The boy about jumped a foot in the ear in fright "SAKURA-CHAN Don't Scare Me Like That" Naruto shrieked holding a hand over his heart, shaking like a leaf and his skin as pale as a ghosts, she completely lost it.
Just broke down in laughter "It's not funny Sakura-chan" the blonde pouted looking like a kicked puppy it was adorable in a weird way, but all that look generated was more laughter and before he knew it he was laughing to.
Before they both finally managed to calm down "For what it's worth I am sorry for startling you, I thought you heard the knock and me announcing myself" Sakura wiped her tears of mirth away and looked around the messy apartment.
Naruto did the same with a grimace "Was a little busy as you can see and help would be appreciated" he rubbed the back of his head sheepishly and Sakura smiled then rolled up her kimono top sleeves and started cleaning.
Until the entire apartment was spotless and all of her friends belongings were sealed away in one of her homemade storage scrolls "All that's left is paying your rent and dropping off the keys" the pinkette announced happily.
And so Naruto did just that and with Sakura they left his home for the last several years behind as they headed towards Sasuke's "The house was sold pretty quickly to a young couple" Sasuke informed them.
Sakura was surprised "Well that was quick and I assume your finished packing as well" Sakura lifted a brow, Sasuke nodded, so they turned and headed straight for the house that they'd agreed upon together, found the current owner, bought and paid for it in full and started moving in.
"This is nice, being able to have others with me in the house and not being alone anymore" Sasuke commented as he unsealed his living room couch, then with Sakura's help they moved it into the perfect position.
Her lips curved upwards "Definitely and you boys will never be alone again, should my parents ever call me home to the Capital you'll still have each other until I can get back, and I'll always come back because this is my home away from home" Sakura admitted.
"I still can't believe you're a princess though Sakura-chan and that Teme's known since we were six, not only that but Hinata to, Ino though I don't know about her, how could you not tell Kakashi-sensei though" Naruto frowned.
Sakura shot him a look "Because I'm undercover knucklehead no one's supposed to know I'm the Feudal Lords Daughter or their princess, Ino doesn't know and the only reason Hinata and Sasuke know well I told Hinata and Ita….Sasuke's brother told him before I could" the pinkette said.
Almost slipping up for a moment there, Sasuke though heard the first half of his brothers name and grimaced deeply "Right though it's nice to know that you would have told me anyway even if he hadn't of told me" the raven haired preteen quipped dryly.
Naruto looked between his two friends/teammates "You ever going to tell me what happened between you two that made you so close like that" the blonde pouted, but like usual when he asked his friends clammed up and told him they'd tell him someday when it was imperative they do.
With that they focused on unpacking the rest of their belongings, choosing their rooms and whatnot before realize "We have no groceries and I think we could get some training equipment for the backyard to" Sasuke groaned realizing they had to do even more.
"That's being responsible see your growing up already Sasuke" Sakura giggled grabbing her wallet and dashing by the Uchiha, who reached out and tried to grab her only to completely miss because she was currently enhancing her speed with chakra.
The blonde on their team blinked "Whoa Sakura-chan looks like you need an upgrade in weights, maybe Teme and I as well, otherwise we'll never improve" Naruto pointed out as they made their way to the market to buy groceries.
A lot of groceries actually, lots of tomatoes, packages of ramen, veggies, fruits, water, herbs, cooking utensils, meat, diary products, eggs, and lots of other things that disturbed a lot of people especially when all the bags were sealed away in a storage scroll.
"Off to the weapons shop" Sakura exclaimed in excitement, wondering if she'd be able to find a summons scroll at her favorite shop in the entire village, with Naruto and Sasuke on her heels she led the way to the weapons gear shop.
Something felt different when they entered "What do you suppose is going on Sakura-chan" Naruto asked feeling the excitement buzzing in the air of the weapons shop, he'd never felt this before and so he looked around.
"Looks like they got some new exotic weapon in that's super expensive want to check it out once we get what we need" Sasuke suggested knowing that it must be something especially if it was still there even though a lot of people held an interest in it.
Considering the fact that the shop was extremely crowded, Naruto and Sakura nodded at his suggestion and with that they went around getting what they needed, 10.5 pound weights for each of them, training gear for their backyard and a summons scroll.
Before they made their way through the crowd that was gathered around a display case with the supposed new exotic weapon, when Sakura's eyes alighted on it she just knew it was the real thing "Hold on is that…. no can't be" Naruto frowned.
Partially recognizing the weapon himself "I think it is Dope, what do you think Sakura, is it the real deal or a copy of the original" Sasuke glanced to his female teammate/friend, she was the only one who'd memorized the seven ninja swords in great detail after all.
At her sharp intake of breath they knew it was the real deal "Believe so Naruto, Sasuke and I'm going to buy it" Sakura announced under her breath, glancing to the price and knowing she had more than enough because of the ryo her parents sent her on a bi-weekly basis.
With that what they believed to be the real Nuibari one of the seven legendary blades of the Hidden Mist Village was bought disappointing several people as the three genin vanished to their new house to set up their backyard and practice for an hour.
"Do you think the Mizukage would allow you to keep it though" Sasuke had a question of concern as he watched Sakura try to figure out the new weapon in her arsenal, thrusting the long needle like sword through a stone target.
She must have added a bit to much chakra to the thrust as her stone target completely shattered in the next moment "Very scary Sakura-chan, but Teme's right what will you do if Kakashi-sensei realizes what it is and you have to return it" Naruto asked as well.
Now distracted Sakura set down what she thought was Nuibari "Even if I don't get to keep it at least it can't be used for nefarious purposes, I only want to train with it for a bit and wait for the response for returning the Executioners Blade first" Sakura admitted.
Just like that the two boys relented and then they all headed in to make lunch together which was tomato soup to Sasuke's fascination before they headed out back to train more "There you three are I've been looking for you almost all day" Kakashi appeared in the backyard suddenly.
With his usual plume of smoke signaling the body flicker jutsu "Sorry Kakashi-sensei, but this is our new house now, we decided to share together and my parents agreed so we did all the moving and stuff today" Sakura grinned from ear to ear.
Not even attempting to hide the weapon in her hands, it would just make the man suspicious anyway "You couldn't have warned me, I was worried that you lot had gotten into trouble somehow, by the way whats that" Kakashi noticed the weapon.
"It's Nuibari, before you ask we found it in the weapons shop, Sakura-chan bought it" Naruto answered smartly having decided to be truthful about the weapon from the get go and Sakura completely understood that.
Kakashi felt faint "Don't worry Kakashi when the Mizukage sends a return letter, if she does anyway, Sakura's going to send another letter about Nuibari and if need be return it to it's rightful village" Sasuke finished.
Making their sensei feel marginally better about the whole situation "Just got to wonder why are you three so bloody responsible, your still children, anyway I was coming to tell you that once your break is over meet me at our usual bridge at 8" then poofed away.
Sakura rolled her eyes then snorted and focused on practicing with Nuibari, using the thread on her water clones that Zabuza had taught her before departing from the Land of Waves and she wondered for a brief second how he was doing, if he'd found anything to occupy his time.
She hoped so because she couldn't stand the thought of him wallowing in misery over Haku's death or worse finding a way to end his life despite choosing to live on and repent for his sins like Haku had wanted, even if he wasn't working towards the same goal anymore.
"Earth to Sakura you in there" Sasuke rapped his knuckles on the top of her head gently and Sakura nearly swung on reflex as her train of thought was completely derailed and she was horribly startled but she managed to stop herself in the nick of time.
A little out of breath and heart beating rapidly within her chest she lowered Nuibari "Was thinking about Zabuza-san, how he's faring you know" Sakura frowned feeling like a terrible person for nearly forgetting the man who was all alone now.
Sasuke grimaced "Thanks Sakura-chan I'd nearly forgotten to, just kidding I wondered that to, it's almost been a week since we left that little village behind and all that happened to us" Naruto flopped down on the ground.
Only seconds later he was joined by Sakura and Sasuke, as they put away their weapons in the small storage shed before it was camouflaged with a camouflage seal, with traps and a genjutsu to ward off any burglars.
They lay there on the ground for the longest of time just staring up at the sky and watching the clouds roll by at a leisurely pace making them feel lazy and tired as all they'd done that day and the last week starting catching up with them.
"Kind of feel like that lazy ass Shikamaru now, what do you say we go back in eat the rest of that tomato soup and go to bed early" the blonde on the team suggested with a yawn feeling exhaustion creeping up on him suddenly.
Neither Sasuke or Sakura argued and so they traipsed into the house, locking the backdoor behind them and warmed up the soup "Even though we just had this a few hours ago it still tastes delicious" the pinkette on the team hummed softly.
Eyes drooping as she was warmed from the inside out, comfort food at it's finest and she was extremely grateful of her Aunt for lending her a cookbook from her personal collection "Agreed, before we go to bed though we should set up traps" the raven haired preteen on the team reminded.
And so once they were done eating and their dishes were washed, dried and put away with the leftover soup set in the fridge, traps were placed all around their house, every window was booby trapped and both doors before they headed to the rooms they chose and went to bed.
By the end of their break Sakura had received several letters, one each from her parents, one from her brother, one from Darui and last but not least probably the most important letter at the moment a letter from the Hidden Mist Village's Mizukage.
~Sakura-san,
Thank you so much for returning the Executioners Blade to us and informing us of Zabuza Momochi's death, it's a relief to know that's one less problem I have to take care of while fixing the internal conflict of my village.
It is in a sorry state and since I'm newly inducted it is taking a bit of time to work through problems and talk things out with the elders, and correct the financial affairs of my village, along with many more problems.
Such as a few of the other legendary blades being missing, two of which I know who's in possession of them, Kisame Hoshigaki has Samehada and Raiga Kurosuki has the twin Kiba swords, however Nuibari is no where to be found.
And I wish I didn't have to ask, but if you ever encounter any strange weapons in the form of a needle please inform me immediately and we'll come to retrieve it personally as anyone who comes into contact with it runs the risk of becoming it's permanent wielder.
Which includes a few side affects such as their teeth becoming sharper and connecting with the sword on an emotional level, once their at level it will be near impossible to separate the weapon from whoever finds it.
Sincerely Mists Mizukage, Mei Terumi~
Upon finishing the letter Sakura felt sick to her stomach the last two paragraphs forever etched into her mind "You okay Sakura-chan" Naruto had to ask seeing her pale skin and horror within the depths of her emerald orbs.
At his question he got the letter thrust into his hands and Sasuke read over Naruto's shoulders "Shit that's not good, please tell me you haven't felt anything from it yet" Sasuke cursed under his breath as he realized the gravity of the situation.
Sakura grimaced feeling even sicker at that point "Unfortunately I have, felt blood lust and the need to be used coming from it yesterday" Sakura said now regretting her hasty decision to practice with the weapon.
Because she definitely hadn't know that information about Nuibari since it wasn't common knowledge and now she had to inform the Mizukage and be punished problem a mess that she absolutely didn't need on her hands and yet she turned and started writing.
In her usual neat swoops and swirls, then signed her name and wrote the intended receivers name on a ribbon then set it to the side to read her other letters, Musubime would be coming in a couple of weeks with Koron and Kyogo, and her parents were glad to hear from her after nearly three weeks, plus they were proud of her for completing a mission.
Lastly was Darui's letter, he congratulated her on a mission well done and wrote that he'd be back to visit her in about a month and a half, she wondered why so long but she figured that they could always write to each other during the time if he wasn't busy.
Then stood "Going to send this letter now and try to figure a way out of the mess I've gotten myself in, I'm not afraid to admit my mistakes after all" Sakura sighed feeling like the worlds biggest idiot at that moment.
"Everything will work out you'll see Sakura-chan, besides there's no way you could have known that information about Nuibari anyway" Naruto hopped up as well since it was almost time to meet on the bridge.
Sasuke was last "We'll go with you then head to Team Seven's spot to wait three hours for Kakashi to show up" Sasuke snorted and with that they left their shared house and headed down the streets for the messenger birds.
Moments later the second letter was sent off to Mist and now all that was left was to head towards their usual meeting place to wait for their sensei, who lo and behold was late like he usually was by three hours, by that point they were just getting use to it.
"Why are you always late and then you give us some lame excuse like that" Naruto grumbled as Kakashi dropped down in front of them, giving them his signature eye crinkle smile, holding up his hands in the universal I'm harmless gesture.
Peridot orbs narrowed "Kakashi-sensei why do you seem to be in such a good mood anyway, if we're being precise you were one minute earlier than you usually are which indicates something has happened and I'm not sure if I'm going to like it" Sakura crossed her arms.
Kakashi shot a look in her direction the jig was up "Very well since you've already figured me out I might as well tell you, I entered you into the chunin exams kids, that are one week and four days away from now" Kakashi admitted outright.
Sasuke choked "WHAT, the Chunin Exams are you insane I don't think any one of us are ready in the least" Sasuke wigged out the one he thought wouldn't while Naruto and Sakura stood back sharing uncomfortable looks.
Remembering their mission that they only just got back from a week ago, it was to soon "It's your decision I was just informing you that you were entered, you have to turn in these forms if you want to be apart of the exams physically" the silver haired nin handed over the forms.
Each of his little genin took one "Maybe Teme has it right, we were barely prepared enough for our first outside the village mission and I get the feeling that if we enter the Chunin Exams that something really bad is going to happen" the blonde grimaced.
Unfortunately Sakura agreed with him "Exactly and I get the feeling that Sasuke might get it the worst this time" the pinkette admitted quietly, stomach rolling and intestines twisting themselves into knots that wouldn't come undone anytime soon.
At their continued concerns Sasuke's skin grew pale "Perhaps we really should sit this one out, work on our individual skills and as a team and take the exams next year" the raven haired preteen winced as they all faced their sensei.
Who looked somewhat shocked at their decision "Like I said it's up to you three whatever you decide I won't push you on it" Kakashi said dismissing his students now that he'd shared with them the news that he had for them.
Though he hadn't expected them to outright turn down the chance to become Chunin and show off their skills considering how advanced all three of his little genin were, but that was their prerogative and he wasn't going to force the issue if they really decided not to go through with it.
Just like that they were free for the rest of the day "Anywhere you to want to go do something that's not more training for the time being" Sasuke asked as they completely bypassed their shared house and headed deeper into the village.
"Mm let's see I don't want to work with Nuibari, cause I hadn't intended on keeping him and I'm hoping that by ignoring it that I'll lose that connection with the sword, perhaps we can find odd jobs around the village, helping people" Sakura piped in excited all of a sudden.
Her two teammates shook their heads in amusement "Whatever you want Sakura-chan I'm down for helping people I guess" Naruto grinned from ear to ear and so off they went about the town helping the odd person here and there and feeling good about themselves.
Until they ran smack into a problem that they hadn't expected to run into, a familiar boy was being bullied by a much older teenager "Hey leave Konohamaru alone bastard" Naruto was off like a rocket only to trip over what seemed his own two feet.
Sakura however sensed the chakra on the ground "Naruto's right it's best if you put the boy down or we'll report you to Hokage-sama for threatening to hurt his grandson, which would probably disqualify you from the Chunin Exams since I'm guessing that's what your here for" Sakura said.
Naruto shot her a wide eyed stare then looked the older duo over again "Just a bunch of naive little brats, what do you know of the outside world, nothing so don't be acting all cocky and like your tough guys" the brunette in the cat hoodie with purple face paint snapped.
And Sasuke's spine went rigid "We nearly died on our last mission and we've each been through horrors that you probably couldn't even begin to imagine, so don't call us naive or cocky, what she said was the truth, let him go or be disqualified" Sasuke spat furiously.
"Kankuro let the boy go now or you'll make him angry" the teal eyed blonde off to the side urged in a frantic whisper because she certainly didn't want to ruin the plan even before it began and that was still a ways off.
The one named Kankuro scoffed under his breath let loosed his grip on the boys shirt letting his slide to the ground onto his feet only for the boy to immediately lunge for his saviors "Thank you Sakura-nee, Naruto-ni, Sasuke-ni" Konohamaru shuddered.
Sakura smiled down at the boy fondly wishing she had a little brother or sister to dote on but content with her older brother, then she felt the demonic chakra converging on their location and hastily pulled her teammates and Konohamaru back several feet.
In a swirl of sand he came, red hair, pale green eyes, a tattoo on his forehead and a gourd on his back "Baki-sensei has ordered us to the hotel, come Temari, Kankuro" the red head didn't so much as glance in their direction.
Before they knew it the Sand Shinobi were gone disappearing in the opposite direction of themselves "Phew that was scary there was something wrong with that guy" Naruto slumped to the ground letting out his breath that he'd been holding for several minutes.
"Got to agree with you there Dope and it's better if we stay out of their way" Sasuke grimaced helping the blonde to his feet after a couple of minutes and they resumed their trek around the village helping the odd person out.
Konohamaru as a mostly silent tag-a-long until he knew he had to get home "Thank you again for saving me from that jerk" the little boy called, waving as he ran off to home, leaving the genin to their self assigned tasks.
Until they to had to go home "Hmm we can pick up some Ichiraku tonight" Sakura suggested as they passed by the stand, so with that they ordered two bowls each and went home to eat before locking up, making sure their traps were set, took showers and finally head to bed exhausted from the day of work they'd done.