Chapter Ten: Decisions...

Disclaimer: I don't own Bleach or Naruto!

Sakura very carefully packed several packs, gently tucking everything she might want or need...but for how long she didn't know.

Affixing the Deputy Reaper's Badge to her kimono top, she piled the bags onto her back and walked out into the warm sunshine.

She was met by Byakuya...

"Sakura, please turn in your Deputy's Badge...If you would, Captain Haruno."

Sakura smiled, handing him the badge. She was officially Captain of the Fourth Division for Medical Aid and Relief Supplication.

"If you would..." He said, motioning with a slightly bow.

Sakura smiled, walking past him with a polite inclination of the head.

Uryu was waiting--along with the entire dispatch force. Overnight it had become apparent the Hollows had pulled back and they were needed elsewhere now...the war would continue on but Konoha would no longer be one of its casualties.

"Sakura!?" Naruto cried, "You said you were just saying good-bye to them!"

"I'm sorry," Sakura smiled, taking Uryu's hand, "But my place is elsewhere."

Sasuke squeezed the Jinchuuriki's shoulder as he nodded to her. It wasn't really good-bye...it was just "Until next time."

They watched as she stepped through the gates...her image fading.

Sorry...abrupt, yes. Short, yes. A sequel? Of Course! Check out Of Soul Reapers, Sakura Blossoms, Seasons Past, and Sounding of Spells.