Kimiko POV
Hanara and I scrolled down the list, reading the names as follows:

1) Pein and Konan
2) Itachi and Kisame
3) Deidara and Sasori
4) Tobi and Zetsu
5) Hidan and Kakuzu
6) Carter and Theo and Gabe
7) Marissa and Melanie and Marnie
8) Kimiko and Eriko and Hanara- N/A

We grinned when we saw our names... but frowned when we saw our role. "Not Applicable?!" we both shouted, but not loud enough to reach Pein and Konan's room where Rose was sleeping.  I was furious, and just that minute Pein walked into the room whistling. I stormed over to him, looked him in the eye, and said, "Why are Eriko, myself, and Hanara listed as 'Not Applicable'?" in a polite yet venomous tone.

"You three will be staying here to train the new recruits we are bringing in.  I sent Kisame and Itachi to round up three of the new members, and the fourth one is in the woods not far away. You, Kimiko, are in charge of bringing in that one. Take Eriko with you."

"Why me? Why not someone else?" I asked, confused. Pein gave a sigh and a smug look appeared on his face as he crossed his arms before speaking again.

"Because you know this new member personally, and it is only fitting that you be the one to do it. And I did suggest you take Eriko with you for a reason. My sources tell me that this new member has a found fascination with wolves. You may need Eriko for some "canine support". Understand?" He stated, finishing with a pointed look.

"Yes Leader-sama, I understand. Come on Eriko, let's get going" I say, bowing to my leader and collecting my gear to head out.

*Two days later*

Third Person POV

The recruitment teams had returned with the new members. All four of them were girls. After some persuading (and a bribe in the form of a cupcake for one of the girls), all four of them joined the Akatsuki. One of the girls was particularly close to Kimiko, and had a wolf with her.

A/N: That is all for now. The picture above is Hanara. Comment on this chapter with your thoughts, questions, ideas, etc. If you would like, try and guess who the new members are going to be (but some of you probably know already). Finally, PLEASE VOTE FOR THIS STORY WHEN THE VOTING STARTS FOR THE 2017 NARUTO WATTY AWARDS! I also entered my Christmas one-shot "A Very Merry Shinobi Christmas" as well, so vote for that as well if you like it.

Disclaimer: HA HA HA! I STILL DON'T OWN NARUTO. BUT I DO OWN MY ORIGINAL CHARACTERS. ALL OTHER CHARACTERS THAT ARE NOT CANON CHARACTERS FROM THE ANIME OR MANGA BELONG TO THESE LOVELY PEOPLE:
NekoMadHatter and Senseis-of-random