Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto or Witchblade. Naruto is a manga property of Masashi Kishimoto. Witchblade is a property of Top Cow Productions. Yagami Hiroto is a character that exclusively belongs to Ultra Sonic 007. Shiryu, Shizuka, and Byakko are characters exclusive to me and Belletiger.

Summary: Alternate timeline from the main Witchblade: Sakura story. This movie fic is set following the events of the Uchiha Ghost arc but well before the Zombie Duo arc. The plot diverges completely and has no effect on the main Witchblade: Sakura story.

A/N: Action time! Irons prepares his invasion on Konoha. How will Sakura and the Witchblade respond in time? Can she and the others thwart the Iwa invasion in time?

You'll just have to find out.

On with the next act!

xxxxx

Act VI: Invasion on Konoha; The Witchblade Hunt Resumes!

xxxxx

Northeastern Section/Market Center/Konohagakure/Fire Country

Konohagakure was at peace. Its citizens carried on their every day, usual activities and daily errands.

Nothing at the moment could change all that.

Until now...

BOOM!!

An explosion erupted within the market district, causing panic and disrupting the daily activities. Villagers began to scatter, but that didn't deter from more explosions from going off. These explosions were coming from underground as several people were knocked back and blown away by the eruptions. The villagers all watched as numerous ninja emerged from out of the holes in the ground. These invading ninjas wore brown outfits with tan vasts. All of them wore the the symbol of two stones, which were embroidered on their hitai-ates clearly.

The Konoha villagers recognized their hitai-ates and fled in terror.

The Iwa-nin quickly moved in to attack the villagers.

xxxxx

Hokage's Office/Konohagakure/Fire Country

"TSUNADE-SAMA!!" Shizune shouted as she hurried into the Hokage's office, out of breathe as she ran as quickly as she could. "We're being attacked!"

Tsunade clenched her fists as she watched the Iwa-nin storming through sections of Konoha.

"How the hell did they manage to infiltrate the village...?!" Tsunade roared as she dashed out of her office. "Shizune, come!"

"Right! I'm coming!"

Already fuming, Tsunade gritted her teeth. "I don't know how the Tsuchikage was able to implement an invasion... right out of nowhere and this efficiently... he's no doubt sent his men to collect the Witchblade!" Sakura's in danger... unless the Witchblade showed her another premonition and she's already prepared!

"Look out, Tsunade-sama!" Shizune exclaimed as she jumped in front of Tsunade and saw an Iwa-nin busting through a window. She spat out a poisonous needle, striking the Iwa-nin down and rendering him immobilized.

"I could've handled that, Shizune."

"I know, but I couldn't just sit back and let you have all the fun."

"In any case, we must head out and defend our village," Tsunade promptly stated.

Shizune nodded in agreement. "Yes."

xxxxx

Southwestern District/Konohagakure/Fire Country

A large collective group of Iwa-nin surrounded a family of five. A father, a mother, a son, and a baby daughter in her mother's arms. The Iwa-nin prepared to attack them, until...

"Konoha Senpū!!"

Whoosh!!

Five Iwa-nin were quickly knocked off their feet by a rapid force of successive kicks. The family watched as their savior came in the form of Rock Lee. They were relieved as he quickly led them back into their home.

Suddenly, a spinning force of chakra appeared at the center and knocked back seven Iwa-nin.

"Hakkeshō Kaiten!!"

"Way to go, Neji!" Rock Lee hollered out, cheering on his teammate.

As the Hyuuga clan member stopped his initial rotation, Neji stood his ground and remained on guard. His acute Byakugan eyes discerned the area, finding that all but one Iwa-nin remained standing. Neji turned and faced the single enemy shinobi. The Iwa-nin backed off, readily preparing to attack with a jutsu. Before he could implement it, a hand tapped his right shoulder. The Iwa-nin instinctively whirled around and was punched square in the face. This single punch sent the Iwa-nin flying into a wooden crate.

"Nice punch, Gai-sensei!"

Stepping forward to make his grand entrance, Maito Gai howled a high-pitched battle cry.

Just then, another Iwa-nin was sent flying straight into mid-air as a barrage of weapons pelted him. The enemy fell to the ground, completely unconscious and rendered unable to fight. Tenten jumped down from mid-air as she landed near where her teammates were.

"How did so many of these shinobi from Iwa suddenly just appear without detection?!" Tenten exclaimed.

"That's a mystery in itself. This attack just happened seemingly out of nowhere ten minutes ago!" Neji said, admittedly as clueless as his teammates were at the moment.

As he made sure the family stayed in their residence, Rock Lee hurried toward his team. He and Neji analyzed their surroundings. These Iwa-nin came from underground as they saw holes scattered in various spots. Iwa-nin were known for their proficient use of burrowing underground tunnels, which was better utilized than any other shinobi from the five nations.

"Regardless of how they got here, we can't let them carry on with this invasion. I guess the Tsuchikage felt three Iwa-nin wasn't going to be enough," Gai firmly stated as he scanned around the vicinity. "We've already seen one invasion that left many unfortunate causalities. Let's not let history repeat itself. Luckily, nearly all of our Jounin are here to help turn the tide against these Iwa-nin invaders."

"Yes, we must put an end to this invasion quickly!" Rock Lee howled out in declaration.

Neji nodded. "There's no time to lose. Team Gai, let's move!"

With that, Team Gai sprinted off toward another sector within the southwestern district.

xxxxx

Rooftop/Haruno Residence/Konohagakure/Fire Country

Sakura roared as she punched an Iwa-nin, sending him flying off the rooftop. She whirled around as two more Iwa-nin launched a series of shuriken at her direction. The kunoichi ducked, letting the shuriken fly across past her. Miki immediately intervened, utilizing her water bending skills and waved her hands in circular motions. Her successive hand motions 'twisted' the water and 'bended' it into a battering ram, which she used to launch toward the two Iwa-nin. The powerful force of water caught the two Iwa-nin, knocking them off the roof.

"Thanks, Miki!" Sakura called out.

Miki acknowledged the medic-nin with a nod. The Mist kunoichi quickly turned as she saw seven Iwa-nin hopping across rooftops. They were all moving toward one destination: Sakura's home.

"I'm noticing this now, but these guys are specifically heading towards your home!"

Sakura gasped as she realized why the Iwa-nin were targeting her home. "They're after me and the Witchblade!" Her face contorted with a scornful frown. "I'm not going to let you near my home, you bastards!" She prepared to meet the Iwa-nin head-on. "If it's me and the Witchblade you want, right?! Well, come and get me! I'll take you all out!"

Miki scoffed as she moved in by Sakura's side. "I doubt you can take them all by yourself."

"Just me..." Sakura clenched her right hand as she prepared to attack.

Suddenly, a swarm of freshly summoned clones intercepted the Iwa-nin fleet. Not just any clones, but they were Naruto clones. Sakura and Miki were relieved the duty of taking on the Iwa-nin by themselves. The real Naruto jumped right in front of the girls and sighed with relief.

"Thank goodness. You two are ok," Naruto stopped to catch his breath.

"Well, I was going to take them out," Sakura said with a smile.

"Yeah, right. I was about to, princess," Miki rolled her eyes.

The blonde-haired Jinchuuriki chuckled a bit as he watched his clones pummeling the Iwa-nin. "Those guys were about to raid your home, Sakura-chan. Is your family okay?"

"They're all inside and safe," the pink-haired kunoichi reassured her friend. "I made sure of that. But, these guys are after me."

"Because of the Witchblade," Naruto guessed.

"Yeah, which is why we should get away from here and find the others! Like Kakashi-sensei, Yamato-taicho, Sai... anyone! No doubt Irons sent these men here by some kind of dark magic... the Witchblade has warned me Irons would try something like this by summoning powers from the Underworld to transport these Iwa-nin in our village."

Miki was taken back by what Sakura just said. "Whoa... is this guy even human?!"

"Accessing dark magic and being able to return from death doesn't strike me anything human could do," the pink-haired wielder affirmed as she looked down at her right hand. "Then again, I shouldn't be one to talk. I do wield a power that's beyond anything a human can understand. Whether the case may be, Irons is not using jutsu. This is the work of sorcery from this man's world."

Naruto frowned, completely unfazed by the unknown power of Irons. "I don't know what kind of power this bastard wields... we're going to kick his ass, Sakura-chan! You'll just use that Witchblade to kill him again... this time a permanent death!"

"You got that right," Sakura firmly nodded, clenching her right fist as the red gem on her bracelet lit up. "After that pathetic stunt he tried to pull by seducing me, I'll make sure to permanently send his ass to hell where he belongs."

"You'll try and fail."

As soon as they overheard a deep, gruff voice, the trio recognized the source of this specific voice. They looked up and saw Yagami Hiroto standing on top of a floating chunk of rock. The giant man intently glared at the three young shinobi; although his eyes were mostly focused on Sakura.

"You again!" Naruto snarled angrily as he whistled toward his clones. "We know who you're working for! Tell us how Irons send you guys here and where is that bastard hiding?!" He stood his ground as his clones quickly gathered around him in formation.

"I bet your so-called Tsuchikage lacks the testicular fortitude to face me. That's why. He knows I can kill him with the Witchblade," Sakura gritted her teeth, letting the Witchblade's wicked energy seep around her right arm. Her utter, deep hatred for Irons was already awakening (seemingly feeding) the Witchblade's yearning to rip Irons' wicked body into pieces. "Isn't that right?! I have no business with you! It's with Irons... AND ONLY HIM!! How dare he send you and his men to attack my home! MY VILLAGE!"

In response, Hiroto was completely unfazed by Sakura's threats to his Tsuchikage. "My Tsuchikage doesn't fear you. I can assure you, Haruno Sakura, that he needs you more than you realize. You and the Witchblade are essential to his desire for ultimate power." He raised his right hand, clenching his hand into a closed fist. "Once he has you and the artifact, there's nothing to stop him from punishing Konoha for defeating my nation. The pride of the Iwa will firmly become reestablished and Irons will lead our nation to conquer the Five Shinobi Nations. You, Haruno Sakura, hold the key to what my Tsuchikage's desire."

"You're fucking nuts... and you're willing to serve a freak like him?!" Miki berated the giant Iwa-nin.

Sakura's fury rose as every mention of Irons' namesake further fueled her hatred. "He won't succeed... not as long... AS I KILL HIM FIRST!!" She screamed out as she jumped towards Hiroto and prepared to punch him.

"SAKURA-CHAN!!" Naruto called out as he and his barrage of clones leapt ahead in pursue of the wielder. "Sakura-chan, don't let this guy rile you up! He's daring you to attack!" She can't even hear me! The Witchblade's probably even feeding off her anger!

'AND YOU FIGURED THAT OUT ALREADY? IT'S NO DIFFERENT FROM YOU GOING OFF ON YOUR PITIFUL TEMPER TANTRUMS. YOUR ANGER AND HATRED JUST FUELS ME WITH THE URGE TO EMERGE AND KILL ANYTHING I SEE. THE WITCHBLADE AND I ARE NO DIFFERENT AFTER ALL.'

Ignoring the Kyuubi's boastful tone, Naruto and his clones pressed forward to stop Sakura from reaching Hiroto.

"What the hell is that crazy girl even thinking?!" Miki exclaimed as she watched Sakura within inches of reaching Hiroto. On second thought... what the fuck am I standing here for?!

With that, Miki took a chance and leapt across to assist Naruto in restraining Sakura.

Hiroto hopped off the floating slab of rock he stood on. He fell flat towards the ground below and waved his right hand, 'controlling' the floating rock with his chakra. He flung the slab of rock, sending it towards Sakura.

The pink-haired kunoichi clenched her right fist and punched through the rock slab, shattering it completely. Her right arm was already covered in the Witchblade armor, granting her a quarter of the wicked artifact's power. She swiftly landed on the ground, landing on all fours as she wore a frightening grimace that could kill a Jounin.

But, Hiroto remained unfazed by Sakura's gestures.

"Make your first move, Iwa-nin," Sakura spoke as her voice deepened, signifying the pre-initial release of her full Witchblade form.

Naruto, his clones, and Miki hopped down near Sakura. They noticed as Sakura's right arm was fully armored.

"We can take him together, Sakura-chan," Naruto reassured his teammate.

Hiroto stood in defensive position, readying himself for battle. "Wielder, it's time. Show and prove to me that you are worthy of Irons-sama's attention." He narrowed his eyes intently at the wielder and her cohorts. "Whatever you attempt, the end result will be me delivering you to my Tsuchikage."

"Then, why don't you just shut up and try to beat me, you freak!" Sakura snapped. The Witchblade's power augmented her with speed, allowing her to dash in front of Hiroto quicker. She tried to land a right-handed punch into Hiroto's head.

However, Hiroto countered by lifting his right hand and seizing the girl's hand. He grabbed and tossed her overhead. Sakura landed on all fours behind Hiroto.

"Hang on, Sakura-chan! Help's on the way!" Naruto shouted as he and his clones bumrushed Hiroto rapidly.

Hiroto shifted his head around as he saw Naruto and the clones charging towards him. The giant Iwa-nin responded with a loud bellow. "Saku!!" With that, Hiroto quickly let his body shudder and split apart into several pieces. The man's multifaceted body flew towards Naruto and the clones, quickly dispatching each clone. Each rock part slammed into each clone, causing them to explode into smoke clouds. The real Naruto managed to avoid contact with Hiroto's head by sidestepping him. Naruto jumped away as he landed behind Sakura and watched Miki running towards him.

"Sheesh, this guy's going to be a pain," the blonde-haired teen scoffed irritably as he stood his ground. "Kiki, you okay?"

"I'll manage."

Naruto glanced over his shoulder, noting Sakura starting to channel the Witchblade's power. "Calm down, Sakura-chan. Don't let this guy toy with you. We'll get him to tell us where Irons is!"

Sakura could only growl in response as she didn't take her eyes off Hiroto. "Not sure how long I can contain... the Witchblade's thirst for battle. The ecstasy... it's turning me on. Must rip this guy to shreds..." With that, a wicked smile adorned Sakura's face as she was preparing to fully let the Witchblade seize control over her.

Analyzing Sakura and her Witchblade, Hiroto pieced himself back together and chuckled. "...that's it. Bring out the Witchblade's power. My Tsuchikage-sama is watching you as we speak, dear girl."

"Then, where the hell is he?! He didn't have the guts to come here or Sakura-chan would've kicked hi ass!" Naruto roared out as he berated the giant Iwa-nin. He balled up his fists, preparing to attack and clobber Hiroto at any given chance.

"Trust me. He's watching you and expects to see you very soon," Hiroto deeply chuckled as he shifted eyes from Naruto and back to Sakura. "This especially is true for you, wielder."

The pink-haired kunoichi responded with a low, irritated growl. She quickly screamed out directly toward Hiroto, but she didn't directly call out toward the Iwa-nin. Rather she called out to the man who intruded her mind. "Irons! If you're there, you better pray that we face each other! Because, nothing's going to stop me from getting to you, you gutless worm! You're NOT getting away with what you did to me! I'm not your tool and you won't seduce me again! IRONS!! DO YOU HEAR ME?!" She screamed angrily, her voice dripped with venomous hatred for the man.

xxxxx

Underground Chamber/Iwagakure/Earth Country

Kenneth Irons faced a giant projection image of the invasion of Konoha. The images of his Iwa-nin infiltrating the village switched to Sakura yelling towards Hiroto, but her angry rant was directed towards him instead of Hiroto.

Irons could only calmly smile as he stared towards Sakura through the projection image. "Such a fiery, warrior's spirit. Sara possessed that kind of strong-willed spirit. Ah, it's music to my ears." He closed his eyes as the symbols he drew on his arm glowed. Good the portals I've managed to conjure up overnight worked well. Konoha didn't suspect that I'd ever implement this type of strategy. The demonic arts I've mastered are superior to their use of chakra. "That just shows how primitive your feeble village is. Despite the strong manpower and devoted will of fire, you're still vulnerable to invasions. But, this is what you get for trying to hide the wielder from me. Haruno Sakura, indeed, we will meet very soon." As he reopened his eyes, his smile faded and his face showed serious determination. "But, you will be my weapon. You and the Witchblade will become mine." With that, he licked his lips and prepared to savor every moment of torturing Sakura. "Hiroto, bring her to me alive. Do whatever it takes, but don't kill the wielder."

xxxxx

Outside the Haruno Residence/Konohagakure/Fire Country

"Yes, Irons-sama. As you wish," Hiroto muttered as he initially prepared to attack the group.

Sakura quickly raced forward while empowering her right-armored fist. "Never say that bastard's name.... AGAIN!! RAAAGH!!" She roared as she tried to punch Hiroto, but the Iwa-nin quickly separated his body into pieces and floated out of her reach.

"Saku!!"

"Damn it! Not again!" The pink-haired wielder hissed angrily. "Stop playing games with me and fight!"

Naruto turned as Hiroto reformed his entire body and jumped back. "Sheesh, this guy's getting on my last nerve!"

The female brunette sprang back as she stood alongside Naruto and Sakura. "You're telling me? So, we've got to keep this guy from getting your friend, blondie. Man, this Witchblade is more trouble than it’s worth. Just give Irons the Witch-"

"NEVER! How dare you even suggest that, Miki! Sara would be disappointed in you!" Sakura snapped as her eyes darkened, quickly inducing fear into Miki. "Irons must not be allowed to take the Witchblade or me for that matter. He's going to no doubt use me and the weapon to destroy the other shinobi nations. I can't... We can't allow that to happen!"

Lifting his right hand, Hiroto utilized his chakra and made his fist bigger. "You can't defeat Irons-sama. Borudaakatsu!!" He bellowed out as his right fist shot forward and rocketed directly at the three shinobi.

"MOVE!!" Naruto yelled out.

The trio scattered as Hiroto's rock fist smashed the ground from where they stood. Sakura landed on top of a tall stone pillar, clenching her right hand as she was initially about to unlock her full Witchblade power.

"You've pushed me too far!" Sakura snarled.

The giant Iwa-nin frowned while his rock fist 'floated' off the ground and rocketed up towards Sakura's position. "Let's see how you can hold up against me, wielder. Transform and fight me!"

"It'll be my... pleasure," Sakura chuckled deeply as her eyes turned black and yellow again. "

Picking himself off the ground, Naruto turned and saw Sakura about to transform. Oh no... Sakura-chan.

xxxxx

Northeastern District/Konohagakure/Fire Country

Hatake Kakashi backhanded an Iwa-nin. Then, he whirled around and disarmed another of his kunai. He grabbed the enemy shinobi and slashed him in the stomach with his kunai. He turned and watched Yamato arriving with Sai.

"Kakashi-sempai, they're all coming from underground tunnels!" Yamato reported as he collected his breath.

The Copy Ninja acknowledged Yamato's report. "They're very proficient in the arts of earth jutsu. But, we should've been able to detect their arrival. Iwa-nin burrowing tunnels under our village isn't something hard to pick up."

"How could they have arrived so quickly and go undetected?" Sai inquired to the silver-haired shinobi.

"I don't know, but we have to ward off these Iwa-nin as fast as we can. We weren't prepared for another invasion. Despite some peace talks, Iwagakure still holds a grudge against our village for the outcome of the Third Great Ninja War."

Yamato replied. "Yes, your teacher... the Fourth had a hand in leading Konoha to victory over Iwa."

Kakashi remembered everything that happened during the Third Great Ninja War. It was during this major world event that he took part in battle at the age of thirteen and was promoted to the Jounin ranking. He led his team, which consisted of both Uchiha Obito and Rin. Their teacher, Namikaze Minato, was known as the 'Golden Flash of Konoha' at the time. The main opposition Kakashi and his team faced were Iwa-nin. It was Iwa-nin that kidnapped Rin, leading to Kakashi and Obito to rescue her. Obito would later meet his end, but before passing on he gave Kakashi his Sharingan eye.

Now, Iwagakure have launched an attack on Konoha and Kakashi was not about to let anymore of his 'comrades' to die.

"We have to find Naruto and Sakura, Kakashi-sempai. As quickly as possible."

"Right. Let's head out and find them!" Kakashi stated.

With that, the three Konoha-nin sprinted off and stuck together. They headed out toward southeastern sector since Sakura's residence was within that specific district of the village.

"Could they be after something we don't know about?" Kakashi muttered to himself, though Yamato could hear him clearly.

"The Witchblade? I overheard Hokage-sama referring to the Witchblade and how the Tsuchikage wants it..."

Kakashi quickly came to the obvious conclusion. "Then, the Tsuchikage has sent these Iwa-nin to find Sakura and the Witchblade. We have to hurry before they find her!" He pressed onward quickly as he could with Yamato and Sai following behind him. The new Tsuchikage that assumed power three and a half years ago was known to be a shady individual and never showed his face in public. What could he want with the Witchblade and how does it know about its existence?!

xxxxx

Somewhere within the same district, Team 8 were quickly disposing of Iwa-nin that attempted to ambush them. Inuzuka Kiba and Akamaru (who had taken on his partner's copied form) took turns as they propelled themselves while slamming through a group of Iwa-nin.

"Gatsūga!!" The pair howled as they steamrolled through the enemy shinobi.

Aburame Shino summoned his bug swarms, which swallowed up five Iwa-nin and drowned them underneath the layer of insects. Just then, with Shino's back turned, an Iwa-nin impaled Shino's gut with a kodachi. Shino shuddered as his face contorted with pain... then, much to the Iwa-nin's shock, Shino turned into a swarm of bugs and surrounded the enemy. The real Shino smoothly crept up behind the Iwa-nin and put a kunai to the man's throat.

"You're done."

As Shino incapacitate the Iwa-nin, Hyuuga Hinata did her best to ward off ten Iwa-nin with her Jūken. Once activating her Byakugan, she firmly pressed her feet down as she raised her right hand in front. The Iwa-nin noticed that they were all caught within a giant, green circle with a spinning yin-yang symbol inscribed at the center. Hinata charged from out of the yin-yang circle and rapidly delivered palm strikes. They were each done in an exponentially increasing pace and strength, adding enough force to knock each Iwa-nin back with every set of proficient strikes.

"Hakke Sanjūni Shō!!"

Hinata's hands glowed with blue chakra as she rapidly struck each Iwa-nin.

"2 hands!"

She continued, spinning herself around and catching each enemy off guard.

"4 hands!"

Hinata did not stop.

"8 hands!"

The palm strikes kept coming.

"16 hands!"

She polished off the last remaining Iwa-nin.

"32 hands!"

Each Iwa-nin landed in a heap of stacked bodies. Hinata stopped as she furious glared at the defeated shinobi. Kiba, Akamaru (transformed back into his dog form), and Shino rejoined Hinata while observing the surrounding territory.

"I'm glad we were able to keep Kurenai-sensei safe where the enemy couldn't find her," Kiba said.

Akamaru concurred with a loud bark.

"In any case, we better go back and check on her, you guys," Shino added as he scanned around the vicinity. "The remaining Jounins are already starting to take up a share bulk of the battles here."

Hinata sighed while deactivating her Byakugan. "How did these Iwa-nin suddenly appear? It just happened too quickly."

The Inuzuka clan member couldn't agree more. "You're right. Something is not right here. We would've seen these guys coming a mile away. Another thing is that their Tsuchikage is a very weird guy. I heard he's new, but he's been in power for three and a half years. Yeah, there's something fishy going on back in Iwa for them to just attack us again in the same week."

"You're right. Three Iwa-nin attempted to capture the Hokage-sama two days ago. It appeared there was going to be peace talks, but that was just a ruse. Now, we have a bigger invasion to deal with. About the Tsuchikage, not once has he shown his face. Not even to his own people," Shino proclaimed.

The female Hyuuga spoke up. "That's too scary to imagine. Who really is their Tsuchikage?"

"We'll never know, but he's picked the wrong day to attack our village. Let's go and check on Kurenai-sensei, guys," Kiba firmly stated as he hopped on Akamaru's large back. "All right, Akamaru! Let's move!"

As the large white dog carried Kiba across by running, Shino and Hinata raced across to follow them.

xxxxx

Near Hokage Tower/Konohagakure/Fire Country

Tsunade smashed her right fist through the ground, which quickly stopped ten Iwa-nin from attacking her head-on. A few others were warded off by Shizune, who utilized deadly poison needles to immobilize them. Shizune stood in front of Tsunade, readying more poison needles in her wrist-mounted device.

"There's too many of them, Tsunade-sama."

"Nothing that I can't handle," the Fifth Hokage remarked while pulling her fist out of the ground. "How are you holding up?"

"Good for right now."

Tsunade shifted her eyes forward as she noticed boulder-sized debris being thrown out of the burrowed holes. She quickly responded as she sprinted forward. She utilized her chakra-coated fists, quickly smashing each boulder-sized debris into crumbled pieces. As another boulder came hurtling towards her, Tsunade shot her right foot up and shattered the rock.

As Shizune fully equipped her device with poison needles, she dashed ahead toward the holes and jumped up. Shizune unlocked her device, letting loose a swarm of poison needles that struck down the Iwa-nin that concealed themselves within the holes.

"These Iwa-nin aren't as tough as they seem to be. Did the Tsuchikage send scrubs to carry out this invasion?" Tsunade conjectured, looking at the piles of Iwa-nin bodies scattered around the vicinity. "Even those three who tried to capture me seemed at least more proficient shinobi than these ninja."

Shizune landed down by Tsunade while keeping her guard up. "Regardless, we have to keep our eyes open. Defending this village is our duty!"

"That's right. I don't care who if this Tsuchikage is from another world... no one dares to attack OUR village under my watch!" Tsunade growled as she lifted an Iwa-nin by his collar and forcibly shook him hard. "You better tell me why the Tsuchikage has sent you here? Is your Tsuchikage named Kenneth Irons and why does he want the Witchblade?! Answer me now!"

The Iwa-nin was barely even unconscious while Tsunade shook him.

"You're not going to get any answers from him. I doubt the Tsuchikage is going to let his men tell us anything."

Tsunade threw the enemy ninja down and scoffed. "Sakura is the one they're after. I hope her team can get there in time and protect her." I must stay and protect this tower with the best of my ability.

xxxxx

Outside Haruno Residence/Konohagakure/Fire Country

"Borudaakatsu!!" Hiroto howled as both of his fists rocketed toward Sakura.

As the forthcoming fists shot toward her, Sakura sprang up and avoided the stone projectiles. She came down and smashed her right fist into the ground, causing the earth to shatter. Hiroto jumped up into mid-air while distancing himself from the girl's stone crushing fists. Fortunately, Hiroto utilized his chakra and controlled the rock fists. They quickly turned around and came toward Sakura's back. The rocks smashed her in the back, sending the pink-haired kunoichi flying back.

"Sakura-chan!!" Naruto shouted as he conjured up ten clones. "Kage Bushin no Jutsu!!" He led his clones ahead to attack Hiroto.

The giant Iwa-nin turned his rock fists toward Naruto and the clones. Quickly reacting to Hiroto's attack, the Naruto clones formed a human barrier and provided as a means to protect the real fox boy. The rock fists collided with the Naruto clone wall and blasted through it, causing the clones to explode.

Meanwhile, the real Uzumaki Naruto hurried toward Sakura and rolled her on her back. The pink-haired kunoichi groaned while barely moving on her own. Her right arm twitched a bit.

"C'mon, let me help you up..."

Lifting her right arm, Sakura closed her fist and quickly transformed into her full Witchblade form again. The wielder slowly picked herself up, shaking her head while grasping her back.

"Sakura-chan... the Witchblade helped you recover?"

Witchblade Sakura glanced over her shoulder and growled angrily toward Hiroto. "Yes, and this guy's dead meat if he doesn't tell me where Irons is hiding!" Fueled with rage, Witchblade Sakura let a long blade protrude through her right hand. "Even if I have to cut him into pieces!"

Meanwhile, Miki did her best to keep Hiroto occupied while Sakura recovered. Performing a hand seal, Miki inhaled and quickly spewed out a massive volume of water from her mouth.

"Suiton: Bakusui Shōha!!" She called out, releasing a large surge of water that flowed across the streets and caught Hiroto with it. The powerful force of water knocked Hiroto across.

But, Hiroto managed to split himself apart and allowed his own pieces to float up into mid-air. Hiroto initially pieced himself back into his whole body and propelled himself around quickly.

"Ishikorokaze!!"

Immediately turning into a large, swirling whirlwind of stones, Hiroto came down toward Miki. The Mist kunoichi distanced herself, springing back and doing back flips. However, she was quickly pulled toward Hiroto and pummeled with heavy stones. Hiroto's pieces pounded all over Miki. They repeatedly bounced right off her back, chest, ribs, and her arms.

"Miki! C'mon, Sakura-chan, we have to go and help her!" Naruto called out as he and Witchblade Sakura raced ahead to save the Mist kunoichi.

Once Hiroto finished his devastating jutsu, he dropped down to the ground and watched Miki's body hit the ground.

"You can attempt to escape, but it'll do you no good," Hiroto stated as he walked over Miki's fallen side. "I have no business with you, but you did attack my people. For that, I must eliminate you." Raising his right hand, Hiroto prepared to deal a killing blow to the girl.

Shick.

Hiroto gasped and paused as he saw a long blade protrude through his left side. He immediately whirled around and saw Witchblade Sakura smiling evilly behind him.

"Heh, guess who?" Sakura chortled evilly.

"You..." The giant Iwa-nin frowned as he yanked the blade out of his side. He jumped back and threw off his cloak. "Iwakasu no Jutsu!!" Then, after completing a set of hand seals, his entire body turned into gray, hard stone armor. "This time I'm ready for you, wielder!"

As Naruto hurried over to check on Miki, Witchblade Sakura bumrushed Hiroto and attacked him with her right-armed blade. The Iwa-nin monster evaded Sakura's straight-forward blade thrust. She tried another quick slash, which Hiroto countered with his right hand. Sakura unleashed long pink tendrils, which launched out at Hiroto and tried to spear him like harpoons. Hiroto jumped away, distancing himself from the deadly wielder.

"Why keep running from me?! Are you afraid I'll rip you to pieces?!" Sakura angrily roared while keeping up with Hiroto's quick pace. "For a man made of heavy stone, you move fast!"

"Its no wonder Irons-sama seeks you and the Witchblade you wield, Haruno Sakura! You are vital to my Tsuchikage’s desire to reestablish my country as the top shinobi nation in this world! Coupled with the fact that Konoha are the main reason why we lost the way... all because of the man who would later become the Fourth Hokage!" The Iwa-nin exclaimed as he explained one of the Tsuchikage's reasons for obtaining the Witchblade's wicked power. "Irons-sama has promised me a vital role in his pursuit to changing this world and you, Haruno Sakura, are all he needs to make this possibility a reality."

Witchblade Sakura scoffed angrily as she answered by shooting off pink tendrils out of her hair.

Hiroto quickly evaded the long pink tentacles and jumped back several feet. "Resist all you want, but Irons-sama will obtain you and the weapon."

"I'm nobody's property. Are we clear?! Once I face Irons, he's going to wish he never met me!"

"Oh, he's looking forward to seeing you. It'll come much sooner than you think."

As Naruto helped Miki up to her feet, he retorted directly at the Iwa-nin. "Your friends are getting their butts kicked by us. I doubt your failure of a stupid invasion will even last much longer."

Overhearing Naruto shouting from the background, Hiroto chuckled in amusement. "Oh, who this was the only artillery we've brought? Irons-sama always has aces up his sleeve. When he wants something, he'll make sure that he obtains it through any means necessary. Even your fellow Konoha-nin won't be able to turn back everything Irons-sama has to give."

"You're just talking out of your ass!" Naruto exclaimed.

Hiroto chortled. "Am I?"

Sakura flexed her right arm out and quickly advanced toward Hiroto. "I'd say you're talking bullshit and you're already getting on my last nerve! Shut up... and tell me where's Irons! If you won't tell me, I'll BEAT IT OUTTA YOU!!" She roared out and clashed with Hiroto, vertically slashing her blade at Hiroto.

The monstrous Iwa-nin countered as he brought up his arms, guarding himself against the wielder's vicious blows.

Sheesh, look at her go. Naruto thought as he noticed Miki was coming to. "Miki, can you hear me?"

"...Huh? Where...?" Miki groaned as she barely opened her eyes and lifted her chin. The first scene that her eye caught was Witchblade Sakura fighting on even grounds with Hiroto. She saw the wielder spinning around Hiroto and striking him with her blades and tentacle spears. "She's... fighting him again?!"

"And we're going to help. Time for the Rasengan," the blonde-haired Jinchuuriki stated.

The Mist kunoichi was befuddled by what he said. "Rasen-what? What the hell is that?"

"Just watch. You'll get the idea," Naruto replied as he formed a hand seal, preparing to implement his Kage Bushin no Jutsu. Just hold him steady, Sakura-chan! Man, they're moving too fast. I just need one shot to take that freak down! "Kage Bushin no Jutsu."

Poof!!

Instantly appearing by Naruto's side were two shadow clones of himself. They huddled close to the real Naruto and helped to build a ball of blue condensed chakra in his palm. Miki observed in astonishment as she watched Naruto preparing to build up his ultimate attack.

Miki eyed the Rasengan forming and blinked thrice. He's building some kind of chakra...? It's so intense that it's building up. Could this be that Rasen-whatever the hell it is?

She quickly glanced ahead at the ongoing battle. Hiroto was already about to regain the advantage over Witchblade Sakura.

"Keep building that attack, Naruto! I'll go and help your pink-haired pal!" Miki exclaimed as she raced back toward the battle.

"WAIT! MIKI!" Naruto shouted as his clones helped him complete his Rasengan. Yes, got it! "Here goes nothing!" With that, he quickly followed behind Miki with his Rasengan spinning rapidly in his right palm. He set his eyes on the intended target: Yagami Hiroto himself.

Witchblade Sakura and Hiroto were locked as the wielder's blade pressed against his stone fists. Hiroto saw an opening and escaped, separating his entire body and coming apart into pieces. His floating pieces floated behind Sakura and flew towards him. Sakura whirled around, quickly crossing her arms as Hiroto pounded her with repeated blows using his own rock pieces. As one giant piece struck her solar plexus, the wielder was sent flying through a nearby food cart.

Just then, as Hiroto pieced himself together, he turned and saw Miki charging toward him. The Mist kunoichi jumped forward and threw several shuriken at his direction. The Iwa-nin easily countered, raising his right hand. The shurikens ricocheted off his hand, sending them flying in all directions.

"Child's play," Hiroto scoffed irritably.

Suddenly, the Iwa-nin felt an overwhelming pressure coming from a single point. He whirled behind him and saw Naruto coming toward him with his Rasengan. Hiroto jumped right out of Naruto's reach, but not fast enough as his right arm was blown apart by the boy's Rasengan.

"Rasengan!!"

Hiroto jumped up and landed on a 15-foot high stone pillar. He grasped the broken fragments that used to be his right arm. Out of desperation, Hiroto smashed his fist into the pillar and collected some stone fragments.

"This should do," Hiroto said. "To rebuild my arm." But, I need time to build up chakra and repair the damage. I must... I didn't want to have to do this, but I cannot battle the wielder and this boy with one arm. "Wielder! If you wish to see Irons-sama, why don't you follow me?"

"What?! Follow me into a trap! Yeah, right!" Naruto retorted as he wasn't about to take up Hiroto's offer.

"You want my Tsuchikage-sama, don't you? Well, wielder, this is your chance, but know that the invasion will not stop even if you pursue me!" Hiroto bellowed out, attempting to garner Sakura's full attention.

As she picked herself off the ground, Witchblade Sakura heard Hiroto and frowned. "...you're running away? Feh, you're just like that bastard. You're both cowards!"

"But, aren't you obsessed with getting your hands on my Tsuchikage-sama?"

"I wouldn't mind cutting his head off!"

The giant Iwa-nin smirked as he turned around and leapt across several rooftops. "Then, follow me! He's awaiting for your arrival, wielder! Understand that you cannot defeat Irons-sama even if you do see him!"

Witchblade Sakura clenched her fists as Naruto and Miki hurried over by her side.

"Sakura-chan, don't! He's obviously leading you to a trap!" Naruto tried his best to keep Sakura in line.

"The kid's got a point! You can't be that stupid to follow that guy!" Miki exclaimed.

The pink-haired wielder scoffed, sighing in exasperation. She transformed back to her normal self. "No, I'm not stupid, but I feel like he'll lead us there. He seems very confident in Irons' talents. Moreover, we can't pass this opportunity to stop Irons from sending out more Iwa-nin to destroy our village."

The blonde-haired Jinchuuriki couldn't agree more. "You're right. Plus, you have no idea how much I want to pummel this guy for what he did to you."

"Well, I don't know this Irons, but what the hell? Count in me. Besides, it's not like I have a choice... I'm stuck with you two because of what your Hokage said."

Sakura nodded in reply. "Thanks. We could use every help that we can get."

"Pardon. What's that I hear about you three pursuing some Iwa-nin?" A voice called out form behind them.

As the trio turned around, they saw Kakashi, Yamato, and Sai standing behind them.

"That Iwa-nin we fought just ran off and he wants us to follow him to Iwagakure. It's there that the Tsuchikage is waiting!" Sakura briefly explained the situation to Kakashi and the others. "The Tsuchikage wants the Witchblade. Therefore, he wants me and I'm not going to let him take it without a fight!"

"But, your Hokage just forbade from going to Iwa, right?" Miki reminded the pink-haired kunoichi.

"Well, I doubt that's going to matter in this situation," Kakashi stated. "We're heading off to Iwa. This will be our new mission."

Naruto clenched his right hand into a fist and grinned. "Now, we have a chance to get to Iwa and beat that Irons creep to the ground!" he looked over toward Sakura and chuckled. "But, you can get the most of your kicks in, Sakura-chan."

"Thanks, you have no idea how happy this makes me," Sakura said she felt a certain degree of ecstasy. The sheer thrill of finally confronting Kenneth Irons and taking him apart was exactly what the kunoichi asked for.

"But, he got away and he's already probably left the village by now!" The Mist kunoichi said.

"Not unless Pakkun follows the scent of that Iwa-nin you faced earlier," the Copy Ninja affirmed.

Miki had a perplexed look on her face. "What's a Pakkun?"

"You'll see," Yamato said. "Once you've summoned Pakkun, let's follow him and head out."

As Naruto looked toward Sakura, the girl had a devilish smirk on her face.

Witchblade, I bet this is exactly what you wanted. Finally, we're going to face Irons. Your old enemy. Sakura communicated with the artifact's spirit that dwelled within her mind.

Chuckling deeply to himself, the Witchblade answered his vessel. 'You have no idea how long I've waited for this. Just wait, Irons is going to be thrilled to see me. But, it'll be even more exciting when we tear his sorry ass to shreds and make sure he's dead for good!'

Clenching her right hand, Sakura put on a look of determination. Don't worry, Witchblade. I promise you... I'll be the one to put this guy away for good and make sure he never revives himself again! That's my nindo to you, my friend.

As soon as Pakkun was summoned, Kakashi turned towards everyone. "All right, are we all ready? We're off to Iwagakure."

xxxxx

Underground Chamber/Iwagakure/Earth Country

Irons observed everything that occurred, including Team Kakashi preparing to head off toward his territory. His eyes were obsessively locked on Sakura the entire time.

"Good work, Hiroto. Lead them here," Irons smirked as a low chuckle escaped his lips. Yes, Haruno Sakura. I'll be waiting here for you. But, know that your village will still be endangered. You thought I've only sent regular troops to dispatch of your beloved people? No, not by a long shot. "But, take your time. I'll be waiting here for you, Sakura dear. It's been a long time since I've personally encountered a wielder with such potential. You may even rival Sara in power. Our official meeting cannot come any sooner. Hiroto, bring them here to me!"

xxxxx

Outside the Tsuchikage's Office/Iwagakure/Earth Country

Meanwhile, the Iwa-nin trio noticed mysterious red beams of light coming out of darkened room. They couldn't fully make out what was going on, but they overheard Irons' voice bellowing out from underneath the office.

"Sheesh, I'd really like to know what's going on," Byakko said.

Shizuka gritted her teeth and felt a cold shiver down her spine. "I've got a bad feeling about this."

"So, Hiroto is leading the Witchblade wielder here? Then, we better make up for our failure and head off Hiroto. This is our chance to capture the wielder for the Tsuchikage-sama. It's what he desires," Shiryu firmly stated as he stood up.

"But, don't you think... there's... evil about our Tsuchikage?" asked the tiger-striped youth.

The sword-wielder, Shiryu, shrugged without concern. "Look. I just don't want to look bad on another assigned mission again. This is our chance to redeem for our mistake last time. The Tsuchikage-sama will surely promote us and we'll finally one-up Hiroto."

Shizuka looked up at Shiryu and sighed. That's all you're concerned about is completing a mission and making sure it's a success. But, I... I can't fully trust our Tsuchikage... this doesn't feel right. "Fine. We'll go and play from here, Shiryu. Are we ready then?"

"Yes, I'm ready," Shiryu said.

Byakko stood up and turned toward Shizuka, giving her a 'can we be sure?' look. She simply shook her head and responded with a 'let's just play by here and watch Shiryu' gesture.

The team leader declared. "Team Iwa Trio, let's move and capture the Witchblade wielder!"

With that, the Iwa-nin trio headed out to begin their newest assignment: capturing Haruno Sakura and to take credit from Hiroto.

The race was on.

xxxxx

To be continued...

Next time...

Act VII: The Race Towards Iwagakure; Iwa Invasion on Konoha Escalates!

xxxxx

Translation notes

Konoha Senpū/Leaf Whirlwind

Type: D-Rank. Offensive.

Range: Short range (0-5m)

User(s): Maito Gai, Rock Lee

This technique involves a powerful leap forward followed by a spinning kick with both legs in succession, the second kick being aimed lower in case the intended target ducks the first.

--

Hakkeshō Kaiten/Eight Trigrams Palms Heavenly Spin

Type: Kekkei Genkai. No rank. Defensive.
Range: Short range (0-5m)

User(s): Hyuuga clan

This jutsu utilizes the chakra control gained through Jūken training to release a huge amount of chakra from the user's chakra points right before being struck. The released chakra blocks any possible attack on the user. The user then spins rapidly to parry the attack, both creating a shield of chakra around themselves and tossing away any nearby attackers. This jutsu is only effective when rotating, since the chakra itself is not enough to stop a physical attack. If they cannot rotate, the user becomes vulnerable.

--

Gatsūga/Dual Piercing Fang

Type: C-Rank. Offensive.

Range: Short range (0-5m)

User(s): Kiba with Akamaru

Kiba and Akamaru spin at a ferocious speed and deliver many powerful beast-like attacks when contact is made with the target. The force of this attack is strong enough to drill through stone. This attack can be done alone, although it is less effective.

--

Jūken/Gentle Fist

Type: Offensive

Range: Short range (0-5m)

User(s): Hyuuga clan

Self-explanatory. The Gentle Fist style of combat is based on palm strikes and generally aims to damage the body's Chakra Pathway System, thus creating difficulty by inhibiting an opponent's use of chakra. To do this, the user will forcefully insert a small amount of their own chakra into an opponent's chakra pathway system. The chakra can the be used to rupture or divert chakra flow, preventing them from using jutsu. It can also be used to attack the opponent's internal organs, to which the chakra pathway system is closely tied. Activating Byakugan is required to make it more effective.

--

Hakke Sanjūni Shō/Eight Trigrams 32 Palms

Type: Kekkei Genkai. No rank. Offensive.

Range: Short range (0-5m)

User(s): Hyuuga Hinata

This technique is Hinata's minor version of the Hakke Rokujūyon Shō. Although it only closes 32 chakra points, it seems to be equally fatal or it could just be Hinata hitting the chakra points near to sensitive organs such as the heart.

--

Suiton: Bakusui Shōha/Water Release: Exploding Water Colliding Wave

Type: B-Rank. Offensive. Supplementary

Range: All ranges

User(s): Hoshigaki Kisame and Miki

Miki was taught this jutsu by Kisame. After spitting out a great volume of water from his mouth, the enemy is swallowed up by this advancing surge and crushed. The user can ride the wave, allowing them to move at high speed, and attack the enemy, now swept off their feet, without fear of counter-attacks. In Miki's case, she can only summon a smaller volume of water than Kisame (due to her lower chakra level than Kisame's enormous chakra level).

--

(Fanon/Created by Ultra Sonic 007) Ishikorokaze/Art of the Rock Whirlwind

Exclusive to Yagami Hiroto. The user, Hiroto, spins himself into a swirling whirlwind of rocks. Used effectively to catch and hammer down the opponent with a heavy bombardment of rocks.

xxxxx

A/N: The invasion begins and more action goodness is coming. We'll see what Irons has up his sleeve as Konoha's best must deal with Irons' forces. Team 8 and Team Gai are in action. Team 10 should be arriving anytime now and they'll be joining the others in protecting the village.

In other news, and these are spoilers... so read with caution.

...

...

(SPOILERS)

The actual Tsuchikage is revealed in the forthcoming manga chapter! What does this mean for this story? I haven't decided yet, but this gives me an idea of what to do towards the end of this story.

(/SPOILERS)

Anyway, the next chapter should be worth your while. The chase towards Irons is on. We'll see how far Team Kakashi will go to reach Iwagakure.

Until then, send me a review when you're done reading. See you next time! I'll be off to write the next chapter of the main Witchblade: Sakura story. Stay gold.