Chapter 3: Love Knows No Bounds

With Sakura's father topping the Bingo Book of criminals that Shinobi were eager to apprehend for the extra bounty, Sakura lived at home with her older sister during this tumultuous period. As Shijima was away on a mission, Kankuro knocked on Sakura's front door and let himself in. "Hey, Sakura. I brought my puppet with me."

Sakura hurriedly descended the stairs, her face lit up with excitement at the sight of Kankuro. It had been about a week since they last met, especially after the harrowing incident. During that time, she had been keeping a vigil at the hospital to be with her sister, where she also had the chance to meet Granny Chiyo for the first time.

Sakura's smile broadened as she took in Kankuro's striking new appearance. He had meticulously applied purple face paint, creating an intricate design reminiscent of a Kabuki mask. His eyelids were adorned with purple paint, resembling eye shadow, and a downward-facing triangle graced his forehead. On his cheeks, triangles faced towards his lips, and there was even a hint of purple on his chin, forming something akin to an anchor beard, emphasizing his desire to appear mature beyond his years. His eyebrows were shaved entirely off, replaced by bold lines of purple paint that stretched from his eyes straight down to his nose, culminating in a hook across each cheek. He had painted his lips in the same vibrant shade to complete the look.

For his Genin uniform, Kankuro had opted for a black jumpsuit and a black sand hat that enshrouded his entire head down to his shoulders, leaving only his meticulously painted face exposed.

Overwhelmed with joy at his visit, Sakura couldn't contain her excitement. She jumped into Kankuro's arms, rubbing her face affectionately against his. "I'm so glad you came by. I haven't seen you since you started your training."

Kankuro held her tenderly. "Yeah, now that I'm a Genin, I'm training hard to become a Chunin Shinobi."

Eager to help her friend improve, Sakura took the lead. "If you want to get stronger, we'll need to work on your puppet. Come on." She gently let herself out of Kankuro's embrace and led him upstairs to her bedroom, where her puppet mechanics and tools were neatly arranged.

With a grin, Kankuro complied, unwrapping his impressive puppet before her. The puppet was distinctive, featuring three eyes and scruffy, spiked brown hair. Its jagged, white teeth resembled a human's, and although it had only one pair of legs, it sported four arms, all covered in tattered cloth.

"What's its name?" Sakura asked in amazement, her fingers gently tapping on its hard exterior shell.

Kankuro replied with pride, "Crow. I inherited it from Sasori, the previous puppet master before me."

Sakura's eyes lit up. "That's incredible. I've seen you use that body replacement technique with it."

A warm smile graced Kankuro's lips. "You'll have to help me refill its arsenal."

"I'd be happy to," Sakura readily agreed.

In the sanctuary of Sakura's bedroom, she retrieved a jar of potent scorpion poison from her stash. With utmost care and donning gloves, they began coating several Kunai and Senbon projectiles with the deadly liquid. Together, they crafted smoke bombs, each step taken with precision. Sakura then meticulously injected the poison inside the concealed metal spikes hidden within Crow.

Kankuro needed to broach a different topic as they collaborated in companionable silence. He cleared his throat with a hint of nervousness and said, "I didn't want to ask you earlier for obvious reasons, but I wanted to know if you would consider being my girlfriend."

Sakura's face turned a deep shade of crimson, and her usually articulate words failed her. Gaara once captivated her heart, even though he had distanced himself from her. Yet, Kankuro had filled the void, offering her protection and companionship, warming her from the inside out. As Kankuro anxiously awaited her answer, Sakura was lost in contemplation.

After an expectant pause, Sakura finally found her voice and replied, "I'd love to."

Kankuro couldn't contain his elation, and he chuckled with delight. He playfully leaped onto her, enveloping her in a tight hug. His exuberance was infectious as he exclaimed, "Aren't I the luckiest guy in Suna?"

Sakura giggled, "Okay, okay, calm down."

Kankuro wrestled her to the floor, stroking her smooth skin. "You're so soft."

At that moment, the world seemed to burst into vibrant color. Sakura had harbored deep feelings for Kankuro for quite some time, though she struggled to find the right words to express them. It was as if a profound emotional connection had been silently growing between them, and when Kankuro posed that question, it was like a key, unlocking the depth of their bond.

How he doted on her, his tireless commitment to her well-being, and his readiness to accompany her wherever she desired had slowly but surely woven a strong thread of affection in her heart. With his heartfelt question, that connection deepened, and the world around them felt brighter and more alive than ever.

Sakura gently stroked his pastel cheeks, recalling the day they met. She nabbed the collar of his jumpsuit to tug him closer for a kiss. His warm lips tasted like candy. The tension between them elevated with the hastened sounds of their breath. Sakura could feel his dick growing within his suit. She couldn't resist her urge to touch one of her own age. Her hands reached to fondle his penis nice and gently. He groaned at the repetitive movement of her hand. In an unexpected burst of excitement, Kankuro knocked over the table, and an unpainted smoke bomb tumbled from it, detonating upon impact. A cloud of white smoke billowed out, enveloping them and shrouding their surroundings in an impenetrable haze.

Startled and disoriented, Sakura exclaimed, "Kankuro, what's happening?"

"One of the smoke bombs exploded." 

Acting swiftly, Kankuro leaped to his feet, his panicked urgency driving him to the window. He yanked it open, desperately attempting to clear the room of the smoke.

Casting a worried glance at Sakura, he scooped her into his arms, carrying her through the window and onto the front lawn to escape the thickening fog. As the smoke continued to pour out of the house, Shijima, having arrived behind them, stared in disbelief and anguish, her voice trembling as she cried out, "What have you done to our home?"

The couple pivoted to face Sakura's incensed sister. Sakura gestured toward the lingering smoke, explaining, "We were in the process of installing smoke bombs inside Kankuro's puppet when one of them accidentally detonated."

Shijima sighed, her anger slowly giving way to concern. "How did that happen? Kankuro, as a Genin, you should know better than to handle such devices indoors."

Kankuro hung his head in remorse. "It was my fault. I apologize. I kicked the table by accident, causing the smoke bomb to fall and explode."

Relieved that nobody was hurt, Shijima acknowledged Kankuro's apology. "Thank you for taking responsibility, Kankuro. But I'd rather have Sakura work in a safer environment, even though I appreciate your efforts."

Kankuro nodded understandingly. "You're right, Shijima. I should be more careful. I'll be on my way then. I assume you've found a job for Sakura?"

Shijima smiled and confirmed, "Yes, I've arranged a position for her at the Aviary."

Sakura looked puzzled as she watched Kankuro bid them farewell and depart. She inquired, "What's the Aviary?"

Shijima replied, "I'll show you. Come along."

Shijima escorted her sister to the Suna Aviary near the imposing Kazekage office building. In this unique location, they were met by a captivating sight: rows upon rows of neatly arranged birdcages poised for avian messengers to embark on important missions. The unmistakable scent of bird droppings and urine wafted through the air, and Sakura couldn't help but crinkle her nose in mild disgust.

Before them lay an open balcony equipped with various perches and landing apparatus for the birds to come and go as they pleased.

Shijima provided some context, saying, "This is the Suna Aviary. It's where our avian companions are stationed, ready to carry vital messages, be it news of the world's woes or its victories."

Curious, Sakura inquired, "So, I'll be working here?"

Shijima nodded and suggested, "Yes, spend some time here today. Afterward, you can go and play with your friends. I'm in the middle of my Jonin training, so please try not to cause any trouble."

Sakura agreed, saying, "Alright, I suppose I can help out."

Her sister offered a parting wish as she hopped out the window, traversing the rooftops with agility. Sakura was left alone in the Aviary, taking in the sight of the numerous birdcages, empty scrolls, and a central table adorned with an unfurled scroll, ink, and a set of brushes.

As she looked around, a tall, bearded man entered the room, his dark hair cascading from beneath a tan jumpsuit. He wore fabric gloves, and his bright blue eyes shone warmth beneath his Sand robes. A Shinobi headband graced his forehead.

"Welcome, it's always great to have some fresh energy here," the man greeted with a warm smile, extending his hand in greeting.

Sakura replied, "I'm not a Shinobi."

He chuckled kindly, replying, "That's not a requirement here. I'd like you to assist me with reading these books and writing letters."

Sakura replied in a soft-spoken tone, "Okay."

"I'm Mikoto, by the way. I'm the resident bird expert in this village," he introduced himself.

"I'm Sakura."

Mikoto smiled warmly, saying, "Well, it's a pleasure to meet you, Sakura. Are you ready to get started?"

Sakura nodded and began her day at the Aviary. She picked up several books to educate herself about the Aviary's workings, such as sending messages to other villagers and neighboring lands, deciphering different seal scrolls, understanding mission rankings, and how people submitted mission requests. These requests were then passed to Jonin, who distributed them among the Shinobi.

Mikoto also had Sakura write letters to the Jonin stationed at the village gates, helping them watch for suspicious individuals entering or leaving the village.

She spent several hours working with Mikoto until Temari entered the room, her face lit up with a warm smile. Kankuro had informed her where to find Sakura, and she seemed eager for a day of adventure. Temari waved at Sakura, a clear invitation to join her.

Sakura nodded to Mikoto and quickly caught up with Temari. They strolled outside, bathed in the radiant blue sky that warmed their skin.

Sakura inquired, "So, why did you come to visit?"

Temari smiled as she gazed at the sky, replying, "I wanted to make sure you're okay and reassure you that your father won't hurt you again. He may have disappeared, but we'll watch over you for as long as necessary."

Sakura expressed her gratitude, saying, "Thank you, Temari. Having the Kazekage's siblings around makes me feel so much safer."

Temari blushed, touched by the heartfelt sentiment. She responded warmly, "I'm glad."

Under the clear, cerulean skies of Sunagakure, Temari, and Sakura ventured into the bustling market, their laughter filling the air. The colorful stalls and shops teemed with activity as merchants hawked their wares to the shoppers and villagers who bustled about.

Temari grinned at Sakura, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Alright, Sakura, today we're going to turn you into the most stylish non-Shinobi in the village!"

Sakura chuckled, feeling the weight of her worries lift in the presence of her newfound friend. "You really don't have to do this, Temari."

"Nonsense!" Temari exclaimed. "Consider it my way of saying thank you for being such a good friend. I heard from Kankuro that the two of you are a couple now. I can understand if you can't get over Gaara, but I am happy for you either way. We're going to be sister in laws." 

Sakura blushed. "I hope so." 

They perused the stalls, filled with fabrics of various colors and patterns. Sakura ran her fingers over a rich crimson fabric. "This one's pretty."

Temari nodded. "Agreed. You'd look great in that color. Let's get it!" She motioned to the merchant, and soon, the vibrant fabric was bundled up and handed to Sakura.

As they continued to explore, Sakura found herself drawn to an array of accessories. Temari eagerly encouraged her to pick out a few. They tried on different belts, scarves, and shin guards for a bit of a Shinobi flair.

Sakura tried on fingerless gloves, flexing her fingers and grinning at how they felt. "You know, I could get used to this."

Temari chuckled. "See? Shopping for Shinobi gear is fun, even if you're not a Shinobi."

With bags of new clothes and accessories in tow, the two friends celebrated with some sweet treats. They settled at a cozy café, enjoying dango and tea while swapping stories and dreams.

Temari leaned in with a grin as the sun began to dip below the sand dunes, casting long shadows over the village. "So, Sakura, do you feel like an honorary Shinobi now?"

Sakura laughed, her heart filled with gratitude for her new friend. "Absolutely. Thanks for making today so special, Temari."

Temari winked, her teal eyes sparkling. "No problem at all. We've got to stick together, after all. Friends forever?"

Sakura nodded, her smile unwavering. "Friends forever."

The vibrant marketplace was filled with the chatter of shoppers and the tantalizing aromas of various foods. Their mischievous spirits came alive as they approached the lively fish market, where the vendors proudly displayed their catches of the day. Barrels of ice kept the fish fresh, and the air was tinged with the briny scent of the sea.

Sakura grinned mischievously at Temari. "Hey, Temari, you know what would be fun? A little prank."

Temari's eyes lit up with intrigue. "I'm all ears, Sakura. What do you have in mind?"

Sakura scanned the area and spotted a fish vendor who seemed too engrossed in arranging his fish. He was an older man with a scruffy beard, his hands moving swiftly as he placed fish on display.

Sakura whispered her idea into Temari's ear and shared a secretive giggle. "Let's do it," Temari agreed with a mischievous glint in her eye.

The two moved closer to the vendor's stall, trying to contain their laughter. Sakura acted as a lookout while Temari put her plan into motion.

Temari leaned over the stall and pretended to inspect a fish closely. With her fan hidden behind her back, she discreetly waved it, creating a gentle breeze that sent some paper bags fluttering from a nearby stall.

The vendor's attention was immediately diverted. He chased after the wayward bags, leaving his prized fish unattended. Sakura swiftly moved in, carefully swapping a small sign that read "Fresh Catch of the Day" with one that said "World's Smelliest Fish." She then joined Temari's side, both struggling to hold their laughter.

As the vendor returned, he looked at his fish stall and then blinked in confusion at the sign. He sniffed the air and made a disgusted face. Customers nearby began to notice and exchanged bemused glances.

Temari and Sakura pretended to be absorbed in their conversation, stifling giggles as the vendor panicked. He waved his arms frantically to disperse the foul odor, but the damage was done.

Customers began to move away, casting wary glances at the fish. The vendor finally noticed the sign and read it, his face turning a comical shade of red.

Sakura and Temari couldn't hold back any longer and burst into laughter. The prank had been a success. They retreated from the fish market, leaving behind a befuddled and slightly irritated vendor.

As they walked away, still giggling, Sakura said to Temari, "That was hilarious! Thanks for being my partner in crime, Temari."

Temari grinned. "Anytime, Sakura. Sometimes, a little mischief is good for the soul." They continued their stroll through the marketplace, savoring the bonds of friendship they were building, one prank at a time. A group of Temari's friends was also walking down the same way in the opposite direction. The leader of this female group faced Temari, and her friends gathered around her. Sakura stood behind Temari, frightened.

"Hey, Temari. Some of us were thinking. We can't be friends anymore."

"Wait, What? Why?" Temari panicked.

"Well isn't it obvious. Your hanging out with the village freakshow. Didn't you hear? She exchanges pleasure for money with the older Jonin."

Aggravated by the unexpected deceitful rumor, she challenged them. "What the fuck are you talking about? Where did you hear such a lie?" 

"Sorry, Temari."

The girls began to walk past them, giggling among themselves. Sakura turned and pulled out the small Kunai Knife she had been hiding in her pocket. She was trying to build up the courage to attack them. Temari noticed and, without hesitation, snatched the Kunai Knife from her hand.

"You'll end up like my brother if you do this. It isn't right. I am grateful, but I don't want to lose you too."

Sakura clenched her fist and ground her teeth. "I'm trying to make this right for all of us..."

"Not like this... We'll show them someday, the right way." Sakura nodded silently, her gaze following the departing girls, their laughter fading into the distance. A pang of guilt gnawed at her, knowing that Temari had to give up her friends because of her.

"I should go home and check on my sister," Sakura said, her voice soft. "She must be lonely now."

Temari offered a warm smile. "That's a great idea. I have to continue my training for the upcoming Chunin Exams anyway."

Sakura gently held her hair back from the breeze. "I wish the three of you the best of luck. I've heard rumors that it's quite challenging."

Temari nodded seriously. "It will be one of the most demanding experiences we'll ever face, no doubt. So, we'll be training hard. Don't be surprised if we can't spend too much time with you."

Sakura managed a reassuring smile, though deep inside, she couldn't help but feel a twinge of loneliness at the thought of being without her friend. "I'll be okay."

Temari waved goodbye. "See you later, Sakura."

She nodded, watching Temari's retreating figure. As the evening settled in, she began her leisurely walk home, contemplating the day's events. 

The sun had already dipped below the horizon, leaving a soft twilight glow over Suna. She sighed with relief and exhaustion as she stepped inside, the familiar scent of their home enveloping her.

As she kicked off her shoes and hung her jacket on a peg by the entrance, Sakura heard the faint clinking of dishes coming from the kitchen. Curious, she made her way down the narrow hallway, her steps barely making a sound on the tatami mats.

Her older sister, Shijima, stood over the stove in the cozy kitchen, her black hair tied up in a messy bun. She turned at the sound of Sakura's approach, offering a tired but warm smile.

"Welcome home, Sakura," she said, wiping her hands on a kitchen towel. "I've made dinner for us. I hope you're hungry."

Sakura smiled back, her heart warming at seeing her sister's kindness. "I am. Temari and I had a lot of fun today."

Shijima nodded. "Well, dinner will be ready in a few minutes. Why don't you sit down?"

Sakura sat at the small dining table, her red eyes scanning the room as she remembered all the times she and Shijima had shared meals here. It was a comforting thought, especially after a tiring day.

Soon, Shijima brought over two steaming bowls of miso soup and plates of rice and grilled chicken. Sakura's stomach rumbled in anticipation as the delicious aroma wafted up to her nose.

They ate in a comfortable silence for a while, enjoying the simple pleasure of a home-cooked meal. Sakura knew how lucky she was to have an older sister.

After a few bites, Shijima finally broke the silence. "I had a pretty intense mission today," she admitted, her tone serious.

Sakura looked up, concerned, etching her features. "Are you okay?"

Shijima nodded. "Yeah, I'm fine. But it was...scary. I had to take the lead as a first-year Chunin, and we encountered a rogue ninja with some seriously dangerous jutsu. I had to make some quick decisions, and I was responsible for the team's safety."

Sakura listened intently, her admiration for her sister growing with every word. "That's incredibly hard. I am so proud of you, sis."

Shijima smiled, a mix of gratitude and weariness in her eyes. "It's not easy, but I've learned a lot. And knowing that you and I are here for each other makes it all worth it."

Sakura reached across the table, placing her hand on Shijima's. "We'll always have each other's backs."

Shijima couldn't resist her curiosity. With a sly grin, she leaned in and inquired, "So, Sakura, you've been spending quite a bit with Kankuro lately. What's brewing between you two?"

Sakura's cheeks flushed slightly, caught off guard by her sister's teasing tone. She replied, her voice betraying her embarrassment, "Oh, it's not what you think. Temari, Kankuro, and I have just been sticking together lately. After the whole incident with Shukaku, they've been looking out for me like good friends."

Shijima, not one to let the matter rest, continued to tease, "Well, from where I'm sitting, you two make a pretty cute couple."

Sakura's chopsticks clattered onto the table as her face turned a brilliant shade of red. She shot her sister an exasperated glare, her embarrassment palpable. She hastily picked up her bowl, scraping it clean into the sink. Without meeting her sister's amused gaze, she announced, "Well, the Kazekage siblings are coming to the Chunin exams in Konoha. Maybe I'll make my decision based on who impresses me more during the tournament."

Shijima chuckled, shaking her head. "I don't think that's a fair competition, Sakura. After all, Gaara is a Jinchuriki."

With a dismissive wave, Sakura replied, "Well, I'll figure it out eventually. Right now, I'm exhausted. Off to bed for me."

As she left the kitchen, Shijima's laughter followed her.

Sakura's steps were sluggish as she went upstairs to her bedroom, her belly full from her sister's delicious dinner. She felt a sense of contentment and exhaustion wash over her, and the thought of her soft bed was like a siren's call, luring her toward much-needed rest.

But as she reached the top of the stairs and pushed open her bedroom door, all thoughts of sleep fled from her mind. Her room was a disaster.

The lingering smell of smoke bomb powder hung heavy in the air, and the acrid scent made her nose wrinkle. Her once tidy bedroom was now a chaotic mess. Shurikens, kunai, and other ninja tools were scattered haphazardly across the floor. Her puppetry scrolls and delicate mechanisms lay strewn about, looking like the aftermath of an explosion.

Sakura's heart sank as she took in the scene. She remembered her intense training session with Temari earlier in the day, which had ended in a smoke bomb explosion gone awry.

With a resigned sigh, Sakura said, "Shit, I can't leave my room like this..." 

Sakura began the arduous task of cleaning up her room. She knelt on the floor, carefully gathering her puppet tools and placing them back in their containers. Her fingers moved with precision and familiarity as she reassembled the intricate mechanisms, checking each for damage.

The smoke bomb powder had left a fine residue on her wooden floor. Sakura grabbed a damp cloth and began to scrub at it, her movements methodical. The hours seemed to blur together as she worked; the weariness in her muscles was not enough to deter her from the task.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Sakura stood back and surveyed her room. It wasn't perfect, but it returned to a semblance of order. Her ninja tools were neatly arranged, and the powder was gone, leaving behind a clean, slightly damp floor.

With a satisfied nod, she turned off the light, allowing the soft moonlight to filter through her window. Exhaustion still weighed heavily on her, but at least now, her sanctuary was once again a place of peace and tranquility.

She crawled into bed, her body sinking into the familiar comfort of her mattress. Sakura pulled the covers up to her chin and closed her eyes, feeling the weariness wash over her like a gentle tide. It had been a long day, over thirteen hours since she'd last slept, but now, finally, she could drift into a well-deserved rest, knowing her room was in order again.

The morning sunlight filtered through Sakura's window, gently coaxing her from her slumber. As she blinked away the remnants of sleep, she first noticed her room's refreshing sense of order. A pristine calm had replaced the chaos of the previous night. Her tools were neatly arranged, and the residue of the smoke bomb explosion was gone.

With relief, Sakura rose from her bed and stretched her tired muscles. Her sister Shijima must have cleaned up her room before heading out for training with her teammates. It was a considerate gesture, one that Sakura appreciated.

She padded downstairs in her pajamas, her footsteps light on the wooden floor. The smell of freshly made onigiri wafted through the air, and she found a plate of them waiting for her on the kitchen counter. Sakura's stomach rumbled in response to the tempting aroma, and she wasted no time grabbing one to savor its delicious flavors.

As she ate, Sakura couldn't help but glance at the empty seat at the kitchen table. It used to be occupied by her father, who had only brought anger and misery into their lives. Now, it was a vacant space, a symbol of his absence. A rush of relief washed over her, and she silently hoped that he would stay away for good. She longed for peace and stability in her home, which was sorely lacking in her childhood.

Finished with her breakfast, Sakura decided to make the most of the beautiful morning. She slipped out to the backyard, where their onsen, a traditional Japanese hot spring, was located. The steam from the clear, warm waters invited her to relax and unwind.

She undressed, leaving her white undergarment robe nearby, and eased herself into the soothing waters of the onsen. The heat enveloped her, melting away any lingering tension from the previous day. Sakura closed her eyes and let herself be carried away by the moment's tranquility.

Just as she began to lose herself in the serenity of the onsen, Sakura heard a distinct knocking at her door. Startled, she opened her eyes, realizing she was wearing only her wet undergarment robe. With a hasty grab, she covered herself, her heart pounding as she headed back inside to answer the door.

Opening it, she was met with the unexpected sight of Kankuro standing there, his dark eyes wide with surprise. Sakura couldn't help but flush with embarrassment, her cheeks turning a vivid shade of pink. "Kankuro, what are you doing here?" She stammered, hoping he hadn't seen too much.

"Hey, my puppet needs a refill of poison. Would you be able to provide the type I use?"

"Sure," Sakura replied with a warm smile. "Come on in."

She securely tied her see-through robes and prepared the poison in a room filled with microscopes and lights, supplying each limb of his puppet with a generous dose of venom. It was a specific toxin from the nightcrawlers. Kankuro watched her work, sitting beside her, his smile growing with every moment. He felt the tension between them, gazing at her skin underneath the white robes. Sakura focused on her task, endeavoring to ignore his presence so she wouldn't be distracted. Once she was done, she stepped back to assess her work.

Kankuro's keen eyes didn't miss the sight of severe bruising on her side. Suddenly, his desire transformed into genuine concern for her safety.

"What happened to your stomach? It's all bruised," Kankuro exclaimed, gently touching the area above her hip bone through her robes to get a closer look.

"It was a couple of days ago. It was an accident," Sakura replied, her voice trembling.

Kankuro's expression darkened as he came to a realization. "Did Gaara do that to you?" His concern quickly turned to anger.

Sakura hurriedly clarified, "No, really, I'm fine. It was my fault. I pushed him emotionally to hurt me."

Kankuro's anger didn't immediately subside. "I'm going to kill him."

Sakura, tears welling in her eyes, pleaded with him. "No, don't. He made a decision not to spend any more time with me. I told him I didn't want that, but he didn't take no for an answer."

"I knew it. You are too good for Gaara," Kankuro assured her, his anger giving way to concern.

"Can you stay a little while longer?" Sakura asked, her tears now flowing freely.

Kankuro's soft side opened up to her. "Yeah, I'll stay as long as you need me."

Sakura cried on his chest, feeling vulnerable yet safe in his arms. She was mainly alone in this house, but Kankuro's presence provided much-needed comfort. As the winds outside rustled her home, Sakura leaned on him for support.

In a moment that felt like something out of a romantic movie, Kankuro blushed and gently kissed her on the forehead. The young couple kissed passionately. Kankuro gradually clung his hand beneath her skirt, fondling her thighs. His fingers removed her fishnet shorts, hurling them aside. His delicate touch had her feeling an unexplainable phenomenon. 

  Shijima burst into the room, catching Sakura in her sexually intense moment. Her surprise was evident, and she couldn't help but blurt out, "Sakura?" She grinned mischievously, her tone filled with playful teasing as she locked eyes with her sister.

Sakura gasped, "Do you mind?" 

Shijima burst into laughter, clutching the door handle. "As a matter of fact, I do, baby sister. Temari is outside waiting for Kankuro for training."

Kankuro rolled over on the floor, groaning. "Shit, all this training is preventing me from spending any time with you. I'm sorry." 

Sakura replied, "No, it's alright. Go, I'll come by to watch you sometime." 

Kankuro nodded with a smile. He raised Sakura's bedroom window door and vaulted through to pursue Temari to the gymnasium. Her older sister smirked, shutting the door behind her as she departed. Sakura couldn't shake the uneasy feeling about the approaching Chunin exams and her separation from the Kazekage siblings. She quietly slipped through her bedroom window and descended to the yard below; the sun cast a white glow on her worried expression.

She stepped out into the open street venues of the bustling shopping district, her heart heavy with concern for Temari, and Kankuro. They were her dear friends, and the thought of being apart from them for an extended period gnawed at her.

Sakura whispered, "What will I do when they leave me behind? Maybe I should follow them until they have no choice but to bring me with them." 

Among the various stores, one in particular caught her eye. It displayed a stunning, decorative red butterfly hairpiece. She said, "Oh, wow! It's so cute. I can't just leave it here."

Sakura's fingers delicately lifted it, placing it atop her vibrant black locks. The ornate design instantly appealed to her, enhancing her appearance unexpectedly. Sakura squinted to check the price tag on the item. Sakura gasped, "It's two hundred Ryo. That's a lot of money for a little hairpin, but I guess it's worth it."

Sakura couldn't resist the hairpiece's charm and handed the elderly female shopkeeper two hundred Ryo with a soft, appreciative smile. The shopkeeper returned her gesture with a warm, grandmotherly smile and a kind observation. "That looks beautiful on you, dear. It matches your eye color perfectly."

Sakura couldn't help but blush at the compliment. "Thank you so much. I'm really glad I stumbled into the market today and found it."

The elderly shopkeeper nodded, her eyes twinkling with pride. "You know, a talented artist in Suna personally scoured the Land of Wind for those exquisite red jewels in that hairpiece. I'm sure she'd be thrilled to know that it's found a new owner who appreciates its beauty."

Sakura's smile widened, and she held the hairpiece delicately in her hand. "I'll treasure it with all my heart." The connection between the hairpiece, its creator, and the Land of Wind added a layer of significance to this elegant accessory, making it all the more special to Sakura.

The hairpiece settled comfortably in her hair, accentuating her rosy eyes. Feeling satisfied with her purchase, Sakura made her way through the marketplace. The newfound confidence in her step was accompanied by a sense of reassurance as if the hairpiece held an extraordinary power to ease her worries.  As Sakura continued her stroll through the village, she approached a massive gymnasium. As she walked past, she couldn't help but overhear a heated exchange of words. The voices involved sounded strangely familiar, and to her surprise, it was none other than Kankuro in a heated argument with an overweight, elderly woman. This woman had short, light purple hair draped in traditional Suna robes. Upon closer inspection from the balcony where Sakura was standing, she recognized the figure as Granny Chiyo.

Granny Chiyo had earned her reputation as a puppetry master, once mentoring Sasori, who had become one of the most formidable puppet masters in the land. However, Sasori's departure from Sunagakure after falling into darkness affected her. She had vowed never to teach puppetry to anyone else, fearing they might follow a similar path of darkness.

Sakura couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy for Kankuro. He had been working tirelessly to master the art of puppetry and was determined to achieve his goal. If he couldn't receive instruction from one of the few puppetry masters left in the village, his dreams might be crushed, and he might lose hope.

Granny Chiyo calmly responded, "I have numerous Jonin in the village who are more than willing to guide you. The elder Jonin who has been instructing you thus far is more than capable."

Kankuro's frustration boiled over, and he snapped back, "I don't care! You will teach me, no matter what it takes."

With a solemn shake of her head, Granny Chiyo replied, "That's precisely what I'm afraid of."

She then turned and walked away from the gathering of Jonin, making her way toward the gymnasium exit through the locker rooms.

Kankuro, undeterred and determined, unraveled Crow from its white cloth shroud. He extended his fingertips, commencing his puppeteer artistry. With a swift motion, he swung Crow in Granny Chiyo's direction. However, the elderly puppet master did not even flinch.

The Jonin around them began to reveal their puppets, each with varying degrees of humanoid features, some almost lifelike. The puppets clashed and clattered, their movements resembling the slithering of a snake's tail. Soon, an array of these humanoid puppets circled Kankuro, their movements synchronized as they hurled shurikens at him. Kankuro did his best to evade, but a few projectiles found their mark, cutting his arms and grazing his cheek.

Kneeling on the ground, he struggled to maintain control of Crow, his defensive capabilities hindered with only one puppet at his disposal.

In a fierce declaration, Kankuro bellowed, "I refuse to be defeated by any of you!"

With a deft motion, he swung his puppet closer to himself, releasing a smoke bomb that shrouded the area. This tactical maneuver granted him a momentary advantage, disorienting the Jonin and obscuring their vision. They scattered, attempting to locate Kankuro amidst the smokescreen.

Guided by sound rather than sight, Kankuro manipulated Crow, lifting it above him while simultaneously detaching all six of its arms. One enemy puppet closed in swiftly from behind Kankuro, prompting him to flick the blade end of his puppet's limb directly towards the approaching threat, skewering it against the wall. He repeated this process as the fog persisted, reducing their numbers until only two remained.

In his emotional search for the remaining Jonin puppets, Kankuro combed the area in all directions except directly behind him, unknowingly leaving himself vulnerable.

The last two Jonin, seizing the opportunity, exchanged triumphant smirks as they spotted Sakura lurking near the entrance. Their puppets descended from above, swooping down to capture her. Sakura's terrified scream filled the air.

Witnessing the unfolding events, Kankuro gasped, his voice filled with desperation, "Sakura!"

Sakura let out a sharp yelp of pain as she desperately tried to pull away. Her voice quivered as she demanded answers, "What's happening here? Let me go!"

The relentless grip of the Jonin puppets only tightened, dragging her forcibly to the center of the arena. Sakura's cries of agony filled the space as she pleaded for Kankuro to intervene.

"Kankuro, please! Make them stop!" she exclaimed.

Kneeling now, Sakura strained against the overwhelming strength of the puppet-like assailants; her arms splayed out in a futile attempt to push herself back up. The unnatural might of these creatures rivaled that of an average Shinobi.

In a horrifying turn, one of the puppets withdrew a gleaming blade from its palm, pressing the knife's edge menacingly against Sakura's delicate throat. Simultaneously, it jerked her head back by her hair, causing excruciating pain. The sensation was akin to a searing paper cut, and with her neck forcibly tilted backward, it became nearly impossible for her to call for help or even draw a breath. Tears welled up in her eyes from both the physical agony and the forceful yanking of her hair. The strain was so intense that her hair clip tumbled to the ground, a minor, unnoticed casualty during this harrowing ordeal.

Kankuro, immobilized and helpless, inquired, "What's the purpose behind all of this?"

The Jonin remained silent, a sly grin spreading across their face as if they relished this twisted game. Kankuro swiftly deployed concealed scythe blades from Crow's frame, slicing through the limbs that held Sakura captive in the sand. The Jonin, impressed by Kankuro's resourcefulness, silently dispersed, acknowledging his skill without uttering a word. He rushed to Sakura's side, swiftly tending to her wounds.

Sakura, her voice trembling, retrieved her dusty hairpin from the ground and murmured, "I'm so sorry, I never intended to get involved."

Kankuro sighed, his concern evident. "Don't worry about that now. I'm just relieved you're safe."

She explained, "I was out shopping and got carried away with a longer walk than planned."

Gently taking the hairpin from her delicate hands, Kankuro smiled warmly. "You know, you look stunning with this hairpin. It suits you perfectly."

Sakura blushed, her cheeks tinged with pink. "Really?"

Kankuro blushed as well, letting out a soft chuckle. "Absolutely. Wear it on our next outing; I'll take you somewhere special."

Sakura's blush deepened as she asked, "Well, what are you up to now? You did promise to me take out for a meal, remember?"

Kankuro packed his puppet in white cloth, then tossed it over his back. He chuckled, "Yeah, come on."

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm, orange glow over Sunagakure, Kankuro and Sakura embarked on their much-anticipated date. They strolled through the labyrinthine streets of the Hidden Sand Village, the soft crunch of sand beneath their feet accompanying their leisurely pace. Kankuro guided her to a quaint, dimly lit restaurant in a corner. A gentle breeze ruffled the curtains hanging over the entrance as they entered.

The restaurant, known for its authentic Sand Village cuisine, exuded a cozy atmosphere. Plush cushions surrounded low wooden tables, and lanterns flickered with a warm, inviting light. They settled at a table by a window, affording them a view of the starlit desert.

Kankuro leaned across the table, his eyes fixed on Sakura's. "I thought you might like this place. It's one of the best in Sunagakure."

Sakura smiled, touched by his thoughtfulness. "It's perfect, Kankuro. Thank you."

They perused the menu, filled with exotic dishes that incorporated the flavors of the desert. Kankuro recommended a few specialties, including cactus fruit salad and roasted desert scorpion. Sakura, ever the adventurous eater, was eager to try them.

To break the ice and dissolve any lingering awkwardness, Kankuro initiated the conversation with an eager tone. "Have you ever attended any of our festivals?"

Sakura's face lit up with a fond memory, and she responded with a warm smile. "Absolutely, I have. My sister and I used to go together; she'd always look out for me. I wasn't particularly skilled at fishing or hitting targets with kunai, but we had a blast savoring the exotic dishes and being captivated by the fireworks."

Kankuro chuckled, empathizing with her lack of prowess. He continued, "Did your sister end up winning all the prizes on your behalf?"

A soft blush colored Sakura's cheeks as she recalled those cherished moments. "Yes," she admitted, her voice tinged with nostalgia, "she managed to snag all the stuffed animals I dreamed of."

Their laughter filled the air as they exchanged stories of their formative years, marveling at the coincidence that they hadn't crossed paths sooner despite residing in the same village. The conversation flowed effortlessly, drawing them closer with each shared memory and smile.

Their meal arrived, a tempting array of dishes that delighted their senses. The flavors were a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and savory, reflecting the diversity of the desert's bounty.

Kankuro couldn't help but admire Sakura's beauty in the soft candlelight between bites. 

Kankuro's eyes glistened with admiration as Sakura's radiant beauty momentarily entranced him. He couldn't resist remarking with genuine awe, "You know, you're absolutely stunning."

Sakura's cheeks flushed a shade brighter than usual, and she playfully scolded him, her words tinged with humor. "Come on now, Kankuro, you almost made me choke on my food."

Kankuro chuckled, realizing he might have been a bit too effusive. "My bad; I couldn't help but notice how amazing you are. Being a Shinobi isn't the only way to be impressive, you know."

Sakura responded, her voice filled with determination, "I want to be a Shinobi so I can stand beside you in battle, not to outshine anyone else."

Kankuro nodded in understanding. "One day, you'll get your chance."

Sakura, feeling mischievous, picked up a piece of tempura and playfully tossed it at Kankuro's face. She teased, "Who knows, maybe I'll become a better puppet master than you."

Kankuro swiftly retaliated, tossing a piece of tempura back at her with a grin. "In your dreams."

As their plates were cleared, Kankuro revealed another surprise. He led Sakura through the winding streets to a small rooftop garden. The night sky stretched above them, adorned with countless stars.

They sat on a stone bench, side by side, gazing up at the celestial tapestry. Kankuro pointed out constellations, sharing the stories behind them. Sakura rested her head on his shoulder, feeling a sense of peace and contentment in his presence.

Kankuro gently encircled his arm around her, pulling her nearer to him. His voice softened as he spoke from the heart. "Sakura," he murmured, "you hold a special place in my life. I want you to know that I'll always be by your side, no matter what happens. If ever someone harms you, don't hesitate to reach out, because I won't think twice about coming to your rescue."

Sakura's cheeks tinged with a delicate shade of pink, and she responded with a mixture of gratitude and independence. "I'm perfectly capable of looking after myself, you know."

Kankuro couldn't resist a teasing smile, remembering their earlier encounter at the gymnasium. "Oh, really? That's not what I observed back at the gym."

Sakura chuckled, playfully pushing Kankuro in response. "You're not going to let that go, are you?"

"Nope," Kankuro replied. 

Underneath the starlit desert sky, Kankuro and Sakura's connection deepened, their feelings for each other blossoming like the desert flowers that thrived in their village. It was a date they would both cherish, beginning a new chapter in their relationship.