Disclaimer: I don't own naruto or any of its characters as they are the property of Masashi Kishimoto.
The author of the cover image is indy-riquez from DeviantArt. You can check the link for the original image in my profile.
Chapter 25: To Define A Relationship
''I did it!'' Shouted Naruto victoriously as he held a leaf completely sliced by half. After the advice that Kurotsuchi had given him the day before he figured it would be best to start today's training using her method and the pointers she gave him. And along with the experience garnered by his clones yesterday he had finally finished the leaf exercise!
''Very good, Naruto. You finished faster than I had been expecting'' Kakashi congratulated his student. The results that the training did were astonishing, for someone like Naruto to get something in a single day when that usually took six months was beyond amazing.
''I knew you could do it, Naruto'' Thought the Iwa girl at the distance, with pride. She was resting against one of the trees in the training ground. She had already burned several trees and was now taking a break. Unfortunately, the trees she had burned had steadily caught on fire when she applied Chakra instead of igniting all at once like she was supposed to do, so she still had progress to do herself.
''I'm ready for the next step! What do I have to do, Kakashi-Sensei? Cut a tree in half with my wind Chakra?'' Asked the blond, using Kurotsuchi's exercise as a basis for his guess.
''No, your exercise will be quite different from hers'' Informed Kakashi. ''But I have to talk to Yamato about it, we'll need his help for the next part. Wait while I go to get him'' Finished the cyclops before he turned around to go fetch the Mokuton user.
At the same time, said man was sitting at the edge of the forest with Yugao at his side, he was still in the training grounds but he was keeping his distance while he supervised that Naruto didn't lose his control of the Kyuubi, but so far he hadn't seen even a signal of the fox. ''I wonder if my presence here is even necessary'' Commented the man with a sigh. Naruto looked stable enough to him, he personally didn't believe that they needed his help to keep him controlled but one could never be too safe he supposed.
''I can understand the feeling'' Said Yugao, leaning on a tree with her arms crossed. She had been watching over Kurotsuchi for a while now, and while she didn't mind the girl and would even go as far as say she liked the young woman, she had never experienced any instance where she had stepped out of line -at least not enough to warrant such tight security- so she could relate to Yamato.
''By the way, Yugao-San, there is something I've been meaning to talk with you about'' Said Yamato with a serious tone of voice.
''What is it?'' Asked the purple-haired woman with a raised eyebrow, she had felt the shift in mood on the man so whatever he wanted to say to her had to be important.
''I...I don't feel comfortable talking about this so I'll go straight to the point and hopefully make it quick'' Said the man, increasing the woman's suspicion. ''We have to do something about those two'' Said Yamato sternly.
''Who? Kurotsuchi and Naruto?'' Inquired the ANBU.
''Yes'' Responded Yamato plainly.
''What about them?'' Said Yugao, feigning ignorance. She already suspected what Yamato was going to say and she didn't feel comfortable with the topic.
''You saw the way they act with each other, so I think you know what I'm referring to'' Said Yamato, remembering the content faces of the two teenagers as they slept at the base of that tree leaning on each other for support. ''And I'm guessing that you have witnessed a lot of similar moments between them''
''I have'' Said Yugao, looking at the ground in guilt. She had never gone out of her way to stop them and maybe if she had they would not be in this predicament right now.
''No offense but, If you already knew they were starting to feel this way about the other, why didn't you do something about it?'' Asked Yamato, genuinely curious. Yugao had to know that the consequence of letting Naruto and Kurotsuchi become something more than friends could be severe. Even being friends was a complicated situation, things could get ugly if Iwa found out their closeness, let alone what shitstorm it would cause if the two teenagers fell in love. Even Tsunade would lose her head if they became an item.
Yugao stayed silent at the question. She had her own reasons but she didn't feel like sharing them with Yamato. She didn't have anything against him, but she didn't know the Mokuton user well enough to feel comfortable sharing her reasons as they were personal.
Yamato sighed. If Yugao didn't want to explain the cause of her inactions that was fine, he would not pry. ''Nevertheless, I feel that is up to us to do something. For some reason Kakashi-Senpai doesn't seem concerned so we'll have to do it''
''And what do you propose we do?'' Inquired the woman.
''At the very least talk to them. I'll talk to Naruto and explain the situation to him and why it is so delicate. You should do the same with Kurotsuchi as you are more familiar with her'' Said Yamato.
''I'll see what I can do'' Responded the woman somberly. She really didn't want to involve herself but it was true that the danger of such relationship was too high. But she would wait for the moment to act, she would rather not come out of the blue to say it outright.
''There you are, Yamato'' Said Kakashi, interrupting the conversation as he approached the two ninjas.
''Remember what I told you'' Said Yamato to Yugao one last time before he regarded Kakashi. ''Hey Kakashi-Senpai, I saw from over here how Naruto finished the leaf exercise. Impressive''
''That it is'' Said Kakashi. ''But back to the topic, I wanted to ask you for help on the next step...''
As the three adults talked, Naruto used his small resting time to catch up with Kurotsuchi. He made his way to the tree she was resting against and found himself a nice spot beside her as he sat down.
''Kurotsuchi, look at this! I finally finished!'' Said the blond with pride as he held the sliced leaf for Kurotsuchi to see.
''I saw you earlier. Congratulations'' Said the girl with a grin. ''Now I need to find a way to burn this thing down, though'' Added the Kunoichi as she pointed with her thumb at the tree behind her.
''I'm sure you'll get it down in no time. After all, your sage advice is the reason I finished already with my step one'' Said Naruto.
''Well, I'm the oldest and most experienced of the two. I must be able to give you advice my little Genin'' Said the girl with crossed arms and a proud grin.
''That's true, she is older than me'' Naruto had completely forgotten about that. With how much they hung out, little things like that slipped his mind. ''Just so you know, I'm turning sixteen next month, so you are not that much older'' Said the blond, trying to downplay their age difference.
''And? I just turned eighteen last week, so yes, I'm still two whole years older and smarter'' Boasted the girl.
''What?! You are eighteen?!'' Asked a bewildered Naruto. ''Why didn't you say anything?! Had I known I would have done something for your birthday!''
The girl shrugged, not making a big deal out of it. ''I didn't think it was important. Also, we were busy on important missions, remember?'' It wasn't like she was going to be announcing to everyone her birthday just because.
Naruto frowned in discomfort, it didn't feel right to not do anything for his best friend's birthday. Kurotsuchi and he had gone through so much in such a short amount of time, he wanted to let her know how much he appreciated her presence. ''Maybe we could, you know, celebrate it late?''
''What are we doing?'' Said Sai with a smile, suddenly appearing beside them.
''Ahh Sai where did you come from?!'' Said Naruto, having stood up along with Kurotsuchi when they had been startled.
''What's wrong with you, faggot?!'' Said Kurotsuchi considerably more enraged than her blond friend.
''I just wanted to give my input'' Said Sai with a puzzled look. ''I read in a book that friends should do good things for their friend's birthdays''
''And didn't that book tell you that you should not sneak up on people?!'' Said Naruto.
''Besides, we are not doing anything for my birthday so get that out of your head'' Added Kurotsuchi stubbornly. ''Not that you would be invited even if we were''
Sai tilted his head in confusion and disappointment. It seemed that she still didn't like him.
But before the three teenagers continued their conversation, Kakashi came back.
''Hello ,Sai. Good to see you'' Said Kakashi not even bothering to ask the boy why he had come, it was obvious that the boy had some weird interest in Naruto and Kurotsuchi and with his stunted social abilities he didn't know exactly how to properly convey it. Not that Kakashi minded, Sai wasn't doing anything wrong, the boy couldn't be faulted for wanting friends even if he was clueless how to go about it. Then, Kakashi addressed Naruto once more. ''Naruto, come. Is time for the next step''
''Alright! See you later guys!'' Said Naruto before he followed his teacher.
Once Naruto left, Kurotsuchi eyed Sai with distaste. Not wanting to be left alone with the weirdo, she decided to take her leave too. ''I'll go looking for another tree for my training'' Said the girl as she left to another section of the training grounds away from the ROOT member.
Sai just shrugged before he pulled out his sketchbook and sat down against the tree that Naruto and Kurotsuchi had been occupying previously.
Kakashi walked Naruto to the center of the training grounds where Yamato had already been waiting for them with his arms crossed.
''Okay, for this second stage of your training I have asked Yamato for help'' Informed Kakashi.
''But what is he gonna do?'' Asked Naruto with squinted eyes. He didn't see what Yamato could do that Kakashi couldn't. He hoped that Kakashi wasn't pulling the same stunt he had done in the Chunin exams and passed him on to by trained by someone else.
''I'm glad you asked'' Said Kakashi. ''Yamato is just perfect for the next step of your training. I haven't told you this yet, but he is the sole remaining user of the Mokuton Kekkei Genkai, the very same that the Shodai Hokage used''
''I would not say that it's the same. My skills can't compare to the Shodai's'' Said Yamato modestly. ''Though I do have the Mokuton''
''The 'Mokuton'? What's that?'' Asked Naruto.
Yamato smirked before he did a quick hand seal. ''Allow me to demonstrate'' After that, the ground behind the man cracked as a mass of wood made its way through until it materialized properly and formed a tree.
The event was so surprising that it even caught Sai and Kurotsuchi's attention from their sides of the training grounds.
''Is that Mokuton?!'' Thought the Iwa prodigy in awe. There have been reports in Iwa about a supposed Konoha ninja that could use the dead bloodline of the Shodai Hokage. She thought it had been just a rumor until now.
''So that's him'' Thought Sai. Danzo had told him about how they used to have a member that was able to use the famous Wood Release, supposedly because the man had been an experiment of Orochimaru as a young boy. It was good to finally meet him, he had been one of ROOT's best members as far as Sai was aware.
''Wow, I've never seen a Jutsu like that'' Said Naruto in astonishment. And the Shodai also used this? That made Yamato much cooler in Naruto's opinion. However, that still didn't answer Naruto's question. ''It's amazing and all but I still don't understand how this helps my training''
''Let me explain'' Said Kakashi. ''The Mokuton, just like Kurotsuchi's Yoton, is the result of mixing two Chakra natures, this time, is Water and Earth Chakra Natures. He'll help us to create a waterfall''
Instead of waiting for Naruto to ask more question, Yamato got straight into his task. Again, he did some hand seals and a tall wall of dirt was erected right where he had been standing, leaving him on top the giant structure as he gazed down at Kakashi and the stunned Naruto. After that, a torrent of water started gushing down the earth wall, effectively forming a standing waterfall in the middle of the training grounds.
''Your new objective is to cut the waterfall using only your Chakra'' Said Kakashi which broke Naruto out of his stupor at seeing Yamato's amazing Jutsu.
''Just you watch, Kakashi-Sensei, I'll get it down in no time just like the leaf!'' Said Naruto with a raised fist. ''But can it be bigger? I can't fit that many Shadow Clones in there''
Kakashi turned to look up at Yamato intently, silently asking if what Naruto wanted was possible.
Yamato knew that doing something like that would drain His Chakra terribly, but seeing Naruto and Kakashi's expectant faces practically left him no choice. And so, with another quick hand seal, the waterfall elongated itself to cover more ground, so much in fact that it almost spread out in the entirety of the training grounds. After that, two trees manifested themselves at each extremity of the waterfall, a thick branch connecting them and forming a makeshift bridge that hovered several feet in the air just in front of the water current for Naruto and his clones to stand directly in front.
Once the waterfall was ready, Yamato fell to his knees, grasping for air. That had taken a lot out of him.
''That's just perfect! Time to start'' Declared Naruto, bringing his hands together for a seal of his own. ''Tajuu Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!(Multiple Shadow Clone Technique)''
Just like the day before, the clearing was filled with copies of Naruto who gave an enthusiastic yell before they ran to the waterfall, walking on the water until they reached the wooden bridge, got in line, and started channeling their Chakra with a mighty yell.
Now that the waterfall had extended across the training field, Kurotsuchi was just a few meters away from it despite how far away she had been before. She could not help herself from staring from time to time at the army of clones as they tried to cut the water flow. Naruto and his copies had discarded their jacket and undershirt to avoid getting them wet, which left them completely bare from the waist up save for the collar Naruto always wore.
A blush formed on Kurotsuchi's cheeks as she gazed at the blond's toned torso. Naruto wasn't buff but his muscles were defined enough that they were visible, which for the tomboy made for a pleasant sight to see, and with their bodies being wet it made not staring all the much more difficult for the girl. She pressed her palms with yet more force against the tree, trying to burn it with her Chakra in hopes that focusing on her training would take her mind off Naruto, but she still kept looking back from time to time.
Yugao witnessed the girl's reaction from her side of the field, and the ANBU sighed in exasperation. How was she supposed to keep the two stupid teenagers from getting touchy feely if things like these kept happening? It definitely didn't make things any easier.
-Konoha's Streets-
''...And that's what happened'' Said Sakura to Ino. She had just finished retelling her long-time friend about her last mission to bring back Sasuke and their complete failure to do so. The pinkette had been on her way to check on Kurotsuchi and Naruto's training and Sakura took it upon herself to bring them something to eat, which was why she was carrying a basket. On her way to the training grounds she had found Ino and they decided to catch up with each other on their way.
''So Sasuke-Kun still doesn't want to come back'' Responded Ino somberly. When she had heard that Team Seven had come face to face with Sasuke she knew that she had to hear the details personally from Sakura since it was obvious that Sasuke hadn't come back or it would have been all the buzz in the village otherwise.
''Not yet'' Said Sakura with a gentle shake of her head. ''But I'm sure that we'll be able to convince Sasuke-Kun someday. We just have to keep trying''
''I'm surprised. I thought you would be way more depressed about this, forehead'' Said Ino.
''I was, very much so in fact. I was even considering going out with Naruto and see if I could get over Sasuke-Kun'' Admitted Sakura.
''With Naruto? Really?'' Asked Ino in bewilderment.
''Hey, Naruto is not so bad. You know he has gotten a lot better than he was before and I thought I might give him a chance'' Said Sakura in defense of her blond teammate.
''Maybe you are right. Still, I can't picture you with Naruto, though'' Replied Ino. Naruto had indeed changed from three years ago. Yeah, he was still loud and was still a fool most of the time but he was better than he had been before if only slightly. ''At least you came back to your senses in the end''
''Well I didn't do it by myself to be honest'' Said Sakura. ''Kurotsuchi-San actually helped me with it''
''Kurotsuchi?'' Inquired Ino in surprise. She didn't take the Iwa tomboy to be the type to give relationship advice even if Ino herself had only talked to her a few times.
''I was pretty surprised too that she wanted to help'' Said Sakura. ''I just could not hold my feelings bottled up anymore and she happened to be the one that I told how I felt about my constant failures with Sasuke and I said to her that I was considering going out with Naruto, then she reminded me that I can't just give up on Sasuke if he is the person I truly love. She really is not that bad when you get to know her'' That was also part of the reason why Sakura was bringing food to both Naruto and Kurotsuchi, to Naruto because he was her teammate and Kurotsuchi for having been thoughtful enough to help Sakura with her Sasuke issues.
Ino raised an eyebrow at that. Something in Sakura's story wasn't clicking with the Yamanaka. She could not put her finger on it but she felt as if there was something more to Kurotsuchi's actions than she let on. Ino wouldn't be the gossip queen if she didn't know how to read people and interpret their ulterior motives, after all.
Both girls didn't take long to reach the training grounds and once they arrived they stood at the edge of the clearing, staring speechlessly at the gigantic and long waterfall in the middle of the place with an army of Narutos standing in a makeshift bridge.
''Sakura, had there always been a waterfall in here?'' Asked the stunned Ino without taking her eyes off the scene.
''No there wasn't'' Confirmed Sakura, just as shocked as her blonde friend. Just what kind of training were they doing here?
''That's what I thought'' Responded Ino, looking around the place to see who else was there. She could spot Kakashi-Sensei at the distance, reading one of his usual books and two other people were with him: a man that Ino had never seen before and the same purple-haired woman that had been with Naruto and Kurotsuchi the other day. Speaking of which, Ino could see the tomboy at the other end of the clearing with her hands pressing against a tree. Finally, Ino's eyes widened and a blush appeared on her face when she saw a handsome pale-skinned boy sitting a distance away scribbling something on what seemed to be a sketchbook. Ino had never seen that guy around before and with how hot he was -In Ino's minds- that was unacceptable.
''Who is that?'' Asked Ino, pointing with a finger at the new guy.
''Who?'' Asked Sakura before she realized who Ino was pointing at. ''Oh, him? That's Sai. He is the newest member of our team''
Ino took Sakura by the shoulders and stared gravely at her long-time friend. ''Forehead, why didn't you tell me that such a hot guy was on your team?!'' Seriously, what happened to being a good friend?! Your best friend was supposed to talk to you about the new cute guys, damn it!
''Sai? Hot?'' Thought Sakura in bewilderment. She never considered Sai to be that attractive but she supposed that it had to be due to the first poor impressions he gave her, but if she was being honest he did have a pretty boy face. ''Sorry Ino-pig, I guess it just slipped my mind''
''Nevermind that now. I'll go talk to him'' Decided the Yamanaka with fervor.
''If you want to. But just so you know, he is completely and utterly socially inept'' Warned Sakura.
''Bah, how bad can it be?'' Said Ino before she started walking towards Sai.
Sakura just sighed, deciding to let Ino find out about Sai herself and the pinkette proceeded to go for Kakashi-Sensei.
Sai was just giving the finishing touches to his newest picture, a hand on his chin as he debated on a title for his work, when a shadow looming over him and his sketchbook made him realize that someone was behind him. Normally he would have gotten into a combat position for the sudden approach of a stranger, but the newcomer didn't make an effort to conceal their presence and since he didn't feel any killing intent he calmly glanced over his shoulder to find a platinum blonde girl leaning towards him with a friendly grin.
''Hi there!'' Said the chipper girl. ''Sorry to disturb you but I just saw you sitting here by yourself and since I have never seen you around I thought I'd come over and introduce myself. Yamanaka Ino. Nice to meet you!'' Finished the mind reader with her hand extended in a polite gesture.
Sai stared at the hand at his side and he blinked slowly a couple of times. This had been unexpected. Still, he took the girl's hand to return the handshake with a bit of reluctance. ''I'm Sai'' Said the serious young man.
''So, Sai, I heard from Sakura that you are her teammate'' Said Ino, breaking the handshake. ''Why is it that I have never seen you before?'' Of course she already knew that the guy was new on the team but she wanted a topic to break the ice.
''I was just assigned recently'' Explained Sai calmly.
''I see'' Said Ino. ''So, what did you do before joining Team Seven?''
Sai was momentarily at a loss for words, he wasn't allowed to say anything about ROOT, and why would this curious girl care for that anyway? He guessed that this was a common way that people acted when they tried to be friendly and having more friends was always nice, right? He supposed that he could at least tell a half-truth. ''I was an ANBU''
''ANBU? Wow, that is supposed to be hard to get into. You must be pretty strong'' Said Ino with an amicable smile.
''I guess'' Said Sai.
''Did you do a lot of dangerous things in there?'' Inquired Ino, trying to keep the conversation going.
''Yes'' Said Sai, not elaborating further.
Ino kept her smirk and cheerful demeanor on the outside but on the inside she was completely baffled that he wasn't putting any effort into the conversation! He wasn't giving her anything to work with at all!
''Okay, change of plans'' Thought Ino. She directed her attention to the sketchbook in Sai's lap. ''And what were you doing if you don't mind me asking?'' Said Ino as she took a seat beside Sai, making a point to stay close to him.
Sai felt a bit uncomfortable at the closeness of Ino, he wasn't used to having his personal space invaded like this. ''I was drawing''
''Ohh, an artist!'' Said Ino with glee, she liked the creative types. ''What were you drawing?''
''Naruto-Kun and Kurotsuchi-San. I do that often'' Said Sai as if it was the most normal thing in the world.
Ino raised an eyebrow at that. That was weird. It could even be considered creepy in a sense but she wanted to give Sai the benefit of the doubt for the moment. ''Can I have a look?''
Sai didn't see anything wrong with but he was a bit reluctant to show his pictures to a stranger. Still, he complied as he passed the sketchbook to her.
Ino took the sketchbook gently before she started eyeing closely the piece. The picture was of Naruto holding what appeared to be a piece of a leaf to Kurotsuchi, he was beaming from ear to ear as the Iwa Kunoichi regarded him with a look of pride. Ino had to admit that Sai was very good. He had a keen eye for details and the picture looked so lifelike, an impressive feat considering that he just used black ink and a brush.
Ino flipped a page to see another picture of Naruto and Kurotsuchi. The Yamanaka widened her eyes at this one. In the picture Naruto and Kurotsuchi were leaning against a tree, sleeping as they used each other for support. But the content look on their faces was what drew Ino's attention the most.
She flipped yet another page to see another picture of Naruto and Kurotsuchi, laughing at the same time looking happy. The next page was Kurotsuchi appearing to be blushing next to Naruto, probably over something he had said or done.
Sai looked at Ino with confusion as he witnessed the girl's expression getting more and more surprised with each page she flipped.
''Sai, were they actually doing these things or did you just make them up?'' Asked Ino suddenly.
''Those are portraits. They did those things on their own, I just captured the moments between them'' Explained Sai.
Now that Ino had finished going through the pages she now understood what Sakura had told her earlier. So Kurotsuchi had not advised Sakura to not give up on Sasuke just to help her with her relationship problems but she had done it to have Naruto for herself! It all made sense.
This was unbelievable! Earlier when Ino had considered the possibility that Naruto and Kurotsuchi could end up liking each other she had thought the notion as ridiculous and too improbable. However, these pictures proved that they had indeed fallen for each other! This was so exciting and romantic! She loved romance and what a better one than love between people that were meant to be enemies? The thought was too good! She had to think on what to do with this knowledge! Maybe she could tell Sakura or...''Wait a minute'' Thought Ino before she turned to Sai, she still needed to find something out before all else. ''Why do you follow them around taking their portraits without them knowing?'' She didn't think that Naruto and Kurotsuchi knew about these, and as sexy as Sai was she wanted to make sure first that he wasn't a creepy stalker.
Sai brought a hand to his neck, thinking on a way to explain himself. ''I just find the relationship they have fascinating and I would like to see how it progresses'' At least that was the gist of it. Sai waited expectantly for Ino to say anything as her serious and emotionless face stared at him and he was starting to wonder if what he had done had been wrong before she gave him a wide grin.
''So you are a romantic like me! You just can't resist wanting to watch their love blossom and mature, right?'' Said Ino excitedly, glad that she and Sai had something in common.
Said nodded dumbly at the girl's affirmation. He didn't know what she was talking about but this reaction was better than the alternative. ''Right'' Wait, did Ino say love? Was that what Naruto and Kurotsuchi felt? That's why they acted like that around each other?
''I wonder if they are going to become a couple soon'' Said Ino with eagerness.
''I don't think so'' Said Sai. ''I don't think even they realize what they feel'' And that was if what Ino said was true anyway, Sai wasn't an expert at these things so he could not know for sure.
''What?! How can they not know?!'' Asked Ino in astonishment. She found hard to believe that they could be so dense, Naruto she could understand but Kurotsuchi struck her as a smart person.
Sai just shrugged in response. How was he supposed to know that?
Ino bit the nail of her thumb in thought. That wasn't right, It just seemed wrong to her that they were oblivious to their own feelings. Suddenly she perked up when an Idea struck her. ''In that case, we'll have to help them see the affection they have!''
''We?'' Asked Sai in confusion at Ino's sudden declaration. She wanted his help?
''Didn't you want to see them end together? That's why you follow them around drawing them right? To capture their growing relationship'' Said Ino.
Sai frowned in concentration. He wasn't sure about this. It didn't feel right to meddle in the affairs of his friends. ''Would this make them happy?''
''What?'' Asked Ino.
''If they got together, would that make them happy?'' Repeated Sai.
''What, of course it would make them happy! Having someone to share your love with is one of the best things in the world!'' Said Ino.
Sai glanced at the distance to see Naruto and Kurotsuchi continue with their respective training. They had helped realize the feelings that Sai had tried to bury deep into himself even if they didn't realize it. He wanted, no, he yearned to know his emotions thanks to those two, helping them be happier in exchange seemed like a fair trade. ''I'll do it, I'll help'' Said Sai with conviction.
Ino smiled victoriously. This was the perfect plan in her opinion, not only was she going to play matchmaker which was one of her favorite things to do but this was also a good opportunity to spend more time with the new hot guy. ''All settled then! First things first, we have to decide how are we going to go about this''
''Do you have something in mind, Ino-San?'' Said Sai, ready to start their planning.
Ino gave him a mischievous smile. ''As a matter of fact I do have some. But you should tell me first things they like to do or things they might have discussed recently. That way it would be easier for us to decide how to get to them''
Sai nodded, that made sense. He hoped that with this he would help his friends become happier.
Meanwhile, just several yards away, Naruto was still concentrated on splitting the waterfall. He was frowning with focus when Kakashi approached him until he stood just below the bridge Naruto was standing on.
''Naruto, want to take a break? Sakura brought you guys some food'' Said Kakashi, knowing that the original Naruto was just above him.
Naruto took his hand off from the waterfall to look at Kakashi below him while the nearby clones glanced back too. ''Did she really? I'm coming!'' Informed Naruto before turning to his copies. ''You guys keep doing what you are doing'' Finished the blond before jumping down the waterfall as his doppelgangers complained about not getting a break too.
Naruto put on his shirt and jacket before he looked at Kakashi. ''I didn't know Sakura-Chan was here''
''She arrived just a few minutes ago'' Sad Kakashi. ''Why don't you go and get Kurotsuchi, the food is also for her''
Naruto nodded obediently before he started printing in the direction of his pink-eyed friend. ''Will do!'' He thought it was very kind of Sakura to bring food not only for him but for Kurotsuchi too. He was glad that it appeared that the two girls were starting to get along better with each other.
He ran over to Kurotsuchi's side of the training grounds and found her standing among charred trees as expected. ''Hey Kurotsuchi! You wanna eat? Sakura-Chan brought some food for us!'' Said the boy as he approached the Kunoichi.
''Food you say? Sorry I'm not hungry'' Said the girl just before a smirk graced her lips. ''More importantly, check this out'' Said the girl as she approached one of the trees that hadn't been burned yet.
Naruto watched her curiously as she did so. She couldn't possibly have finished already, could she?
Naruto's concerns were answered immediately after when Kurotsuchi put both of her hands against the tree and the entire thing burst into flames in a single burst of her Chakra.
''W-Whoa!'' Exclaimed Naruto at the display of the progress she had made, and in such a short time too!
''What do you think?'' Said the girl with had hands on her waist, proud of her achievement.
''I think that you are amazing! You are progressing even faster than I am even using the Shadow Clones!'' Said Naruto.
''I'm amazing indeed, I know. But thanks for the remainder'' Responded Kurotsuchi. ''Let's go, I need to talk to Kakashi''
Naruto nodded, still dumbfounded at her rapid progress.
And with that, both teenagers returned to where Kakashi and Sakura were.
''Hello, Kurotsuchi-San!'' Said Sakura amicably upon seeing the Iwa girl.
''Hi'' Said Kurotsuchi.
''I came to see how you were doing with your training'' Said the medic. ''Also I brought you guys some food if you are hungry'' Finished Sakura as she lifted the basket with her arm.
''Thank you for the offer but I pass. I'm really not hungry at the moment'' Said Kurotsuchi.
''Oh...I see'' Said Sakura. She felt a bit dejected for her offer being turned down but it wasn't a big deal in the end so she tried to not put so much thought into it.
''Anyway, I'm done with my part of the training'' Said Kurotsuchi as she addressed Kakashi this time.
''So soon?'' Asked Kakashi. He wasn't as impressed as he should be as he was starting to get used to the girl's talents but he was still surprised nonetheless.
''It's true, Kakashi-Sensei. I saw her burn a tree in an instant!'' Said Naruto.
''Still, would you care to show me?'' Said Kakashi to Kurotsuchi.
The girl didn't waste any time and approached one of the nearby trees they had around them, put her hands on the trunk, and after a couple of seconds the tree completely ignited.
''Well well, would you look at that. Another step completed. Good job, Kurotsuchi'' Praised Kakashi.
Sakura wasn't sure what kind of training Naruto and Kurotsuchi were doing, so she just watched curiously at the display.
Naruto on his part, while he was glad for his friend that she was advancing fast, he also felt the urge to catch up lest she left him in the dust.
Kurotsuchi just smiled contently as she crossed her arms. Getting praise from Sharingan Kakashi had to be a good sign of her outstanding skills. ''So what's next? I want to keep progressing right away''
''Are you sure you don't want to eat first?'' Asked Kakashi.
Kurotsuchi just shook her head. ''I'm sure. Just let's get on with this already'' Said the girl eagerly.
''Fine, if you are sure...''Said Kakashi as he turned around. ''Follow me''
After giving a quick wave to Naruto and Sakura, Kurotsuchi went after the copy ninja to another section of the training grounds.
As soon as Kakashi and Kurotsuchi left, Naruto sat down with the basket that Sakura gave him and started to gulp down the food as fast as he could while Sakura stared at him completely startled by his odd behavior.
''I didn't know you were that hungry, Naruto'' Said the pinkette.
''I'm not, but I need to eat fast so I can get back to training!'' Said the blond between mouthfuls.
''Swallow before talking!'' Sakura berated Naruto. ''And what is your rush anyway?''
''I need to catch up to Kurotsuchi. She is already so far ahead in our training I can't afford to waste time!'' Said Naruto as he swallowed Onigiri and sandwiches whole.
''I still don't see what the big deal is'' Said Sakura, still confused. ''Was what she did that amazing?''
Naruto nodded hastily, mouth still full, swallowing hard before answering. ''Yeah, that thing she just did takes most people almost a year to complete. According to Kakashi-Sensei anyway''
''A year you say?'' Asked Sakura, astonished. ''That seems so...unreal, wow'' And considering that they just started training a couple of days ago made it even more amazing.
''That's exactly why I need to hurry, I don't want to be left behind'' Said Naruto before he continued devouring his meal.
Sakura silently observed Naruto eat for a few moments, pondering on what Naruto had told her before she gave a gentle smile. ''You know, I haven't seen you like this for a while now. It sure brings back memories''
Naruto stopped eating to stare at his pink-haired teammate in confusion. ''What do you mean by that, Sakura-Chan?''
''I was reminded of how the old Team Seven used to be that's all'' Said Sakura. ''You were always training in hopes to catch up to Sasuke-Kun just like the way you are doing right now to catch up to Kurotsuchi-San''
Naruto paused to think for a few seconds, that was true, this situation felt a lot like old times. Though, unlike Sasuke Kurotsuchi didn't rub her progress on his face just to belittle him. Still, it was nice to have someone to look up to again. Suddenly, he widened his eyes when a thought crossed his mind. ''Does this mean I'm replacing Sasuke?'' He shook his head, it wasn't right to think like that. After that, he went back to eating the food Sakura brought him.
Meanwhile, once Kakashi and Kurotsuchi were a considerable distance away from the others the copy ninja stopped, prompting the girl to do the same as they stood in front of each other.
''Now for the next and last step, I want you to learn a Fire Jutsu'' Said Kakashi. ''Once this is over you can say with confidence that you have mastered your Fire Affinity. When you are done you can either continue to learn more Jutsu or you can experiment with your affinity on your own, your choice''
Kurotsuchi nodded. ''I understand''
''The Jutsu I'm about to teach you is the Katon: Gokakyu no Jutsu(Fire Release: Great Fireball Technique)'' Declared Kakashi.
Kurotsuchi just stared emotionless at the copy ninja. She wasn't really excited at the prospect of learning the technique. ''Can you maybe teach me something, I dunno, a bit less basic?'' Not to mention that the Jutsu was a signature move of the Uchiha clan as they been the ones to create it. After her encounter with Sasuke, she would rather not share any techniques with the asshole.
''Be as it may, there is a reason why this Jutsu is considered a staple among our fire users'' Explained Kakashi. ''Even if it is a basic Jutsu it is a very versatile one. It can be very powerful or very weak depending on the amount of Chakra you put into it, you can also use it continuously like a flamethrower or like a projectile if you condense it into a ball. It's the perfect entry and all-purpose fire Jutsu''
Kurotsuchi sighed, resigning herself to it. ''Fine, I'll learn the damn thing'' She might as well get this over with so she could start experimenting with her affinity by herself. Besides, a basic Jutsu could still be incredibly powerful if mastered to its full potential so it wasn't like this was a complete waste of time. With that, she continued to pay attention to Kakashi as he taught her the necessary hand seals and a few basic pointer for the Jutsu...
After thinking for a few hours and pacing back and forth, Yugao had finally made up her mind was ready to talk to Kurotsuchi. Yamato was right, she had to do something about the relationship Naruto and Kurotsuchi had or this delicate situation could get dangerous. So, she approached Kurotsuchi, who had been left alone to practice on the Gokakyu.
Kurotsuchi had just finished spitting a flame the size of her head when she felt someone getting closer from behind. She turned around to see Yugao coming towards her.
''You are doing great. Most people can barely make an ember at this point or they just choke on the smoke in their throats'' Said Yugao.
''I just want to finish with this so I can do my own thing'' Said Kurotsuchi.
''I'm sure you'll have no trouble mastering it'' Said Yugao.
''Thanks, I guess'' Said Kurotsuchi. ''I would be ashamed of myself if I could master a Jutsu of this level''
''I see...'' Said the ANBU, finding difficult to start the topic she wanted to address. Due to that, both women just stood silently in front of each other awkwardly for a minute until Kurotsuchi finally had enough.
''Did you want something?'' Inquired the Iwa girl with impatience.
Yugao sighed, this was something that had to be done. ''I did want something. I wanted to tell you that...'' Said the purple-haired woman, still hesitating to continue.
Kurotsuchi raised an eyebrow. Yugao was being weird, which was especially odd coming from the usually calm and collected ANBU.
''I wanted to let you know that...I wish you good luck in your training'' Said Yugao with uncertainty, feeling disappointed in herself for chickening out.
''Thank you?'' Said Kurotsuchi, now even more confused that she had been before. For Yugao to come here just to tell her that seemed a bit random.
''Anyway, if you need any help you can just ask me'' Said Yugao before turning around and started to walk away, feeling ashamed and like an idiot. ''I'm such a coward'' Thought the woman. She didn't have the guts to destroy the relationship that was forming between Kurotsuchi and Naruto. She knew how rare and wonderful true love really was, and she also knew how terrible it was to lose it. The empty void of sorrow that Hayate's death left her had been the most terrible thing she had ever experienced. She knew how dangerous the two teenagers evolving relationship could become and as a Shinobi of the leaf it was also her responsibility ensure the village's safety, she could not forgive herself if she were to kill off the teenager's relationship just like Yugao's had her own snatched away.
''Wait'' Kurotsuchi called out to the woman which made Yugao stop to glance back at her. ''You said I can ask you for help, right?''
Yugao nodded to the girl.
''In that case, can you help me improve my Kenjutsu?'' Requested Kurotsuchi. She didn't know why Yugao had been acting strange a moment earlier but that didn't matter. If the older woman was offering her help she would not let the opportunity go to waste when she needed to improve with her sword. She knew that Yugao's specialty was Kenjutsu so it could be a chance for training.
Yugao was taken aback, she hadn't expected the girl to actually take her help in the training. ''But aren't you busy already with another Jutsu?''
''I'll have it down soon. After that, I'll train however I want, and my Kenjutsu is what I want to work on polishing'' Said Kurotsuchi.
Yugao thought it over for a few seconds, wondering if it was a good idea for her, Kurotsuchi's ANBU overseer, to get involved in this. But she supposed that it should be fine as long as they practiced with dull blades. ''Alright, I'll help you out as soon as you are done with that''
''Fine, just don't back down later'' Finished Kurotsuchi with a smirk.
''I wouldn't dare'' Replied the ANBU with a smile of her own before she went on her way, leaving the Iwa girl to continue practicing her fire Jutsu.
At the same time, Naruto, for his part, had just finished the meal that Sakura had brought him and was returning to the waterfall to continue his training. ''Alright, I'm ready! Before day ends I'll have this step complete!'' Declared the blond.
''Hey, Naruto''
The boy stopped to see Yamato calling up to him as the man watched him from the shade of a tree.
''Mister Yamato?'' Asked Naruto.
''Come here for a second'' Said the man.
Naruto shrugged before he went over to where the Mokuton user was to see what he wanted.
''What's up?'' Said Naruto as he stopped just in front of the man.
''First of all, I wanted to congratulate you on your improvement. You have advanced so much in such little time'' Said Yamato with a grin. ''Keep the good work''
''Hehe, I think I have done quite a bit of progress, huh?'' Said Naruto sheepishly as he scratched the back of his head. It was nice to have someone praise him for a change considering that with Kurotsuchi's achievements always seemed to outshine his own.
''However, I have another matter to talk to you about'' Said Yamato, going straight to the point as he crossed his arms.
Naruto felt the shift in tone of the man and that put him on edge. ''What about?''
''I wanted to talk to you about Kurotsuchi'' Said Yamato. ''Or more precisely, the relationship you have with her''
''The relationship I have with her?'' Repeated Naruto with a tilt of his head. ''What's wrong with our relationship?''
''Don't take this the wrong way, but I need you to stop being so close to her'' Said Yamato.
''What do you mean by that? Why does that even matter?'' Asked Naruto, feeling slightly annoyed and abrasive. He barely knew Yamato and he was presuming to tell him how to treat his friends? He sure as hell wasn't going to just drift away from Kurotsuchi just because he said so.
''Naruto, you have to understand the position you are in, the position you both are in'' Explained Yamato, being careful in his choice of words since he could sense that the boy was getting defensive. ''You are the Kyuubi Jinchuuriki, one of our village's most valuable assets. While she is the Tsuchikage's granddaughter and also the most likely to be next in line for the position. You must know by now the enmity between our nations and how delicate the peace we keep really is. By getting involved too much with her you could be risking an international incident''
Naruto glared defiantly at Yamato as he too crossed his arms. ''We are friends, I don't see why that would cause trouble. If we get along is not anyone else's business''
''I know you don't see it as a problem, but other people -Important people- won't share your sentiment'' Said Yamato. ''Even you being friends would be tough for the villages to swallow. If you were to become even more than friends things would certainly get ugly''
''More than friends? What are you talking about?'' Asked Naruto.
''You know, if you were to...like each other'' Said Yamato uncomfortably.
''Well, too late for that. We are already friends so of course we like each other'' Said Naruto with squinted eyes.
''I don't mean it like that, I mean LIKE each other'' Said Yamato but Naruto was still staring at him cluelessly. ''I mean like fall in love with each other that's what I'm talking about!'' Said Yamato in exasperation. This guy was dense, but in a sense he had to thank his blessings that it was the case since that was probably the only reason the two teenagers hadn't hooked up yet.
Naruto's eyes widened when it finally dawned on him what Yamato meant. ''What?! No way, that would never happen!'' Said the upset Naruto. They were friends and that was it. He liked Sakura, not Kurotsuchi! But he could see just a bit where Yamato was coming from, the Iwa girl was really amazing that he guessed it had to be easy to fall for her. She was extremely talented and loved by her people, she was gorgeous in his opinion despite her tomboyish appearance, and her rough exterior hid a caring good girl underneath. Still, that didn't mean he liked her! Right?...
''Anyway, even if that doesn't happen we can't risk something like that'' Yamato continued. ''Naruto, this is very serious. Depending on how you guys behave you could even start a war. Do you want that to happen? Do you want to see your friends die in a conflict that didn't need to happen? And what about Kurotsuchi, would you be at ease knowing that you would be killing her comrades and friends?''
That thought made Naruto forget his previous anger and he instead stared at the ground with severity. He definitely would not want a war. He could not think of anything worse that seeing his friends die because of a mistake he made, he could not live with himself if he hurt his precious people. And that was without taking into account the damage he would do to Kurotsuchi too. He had never stopped to think of the delicacy of this matters and the idea of a war sent shivers down his spine.
Yamato eyed the silent blond and was glad that his speech had seemingly struck a cord with Naruto. It was good that the boy realized the terrible consequences his actions could bring, it definitely should help in avoiding the worst-case scenario if Naruto was aware of how bad things could turn. ''That was all I wanted to tell you and I just want you to take what I said into consideration'' Said Yamato before he turned around and started to walk away. ''I'll be around here if you need anything''
Now that Naruto was left alone he continued to go over the issue in his mind. Did he really need to put a divide in his relationship with Kurotsuchi? Could he even do it? He didn't want to distance himself from his best friend, but now that he really thought about it maybe it was necessary? There would only be issues if they went further into their relationship which was extremely unlikely. He didn't like Kurotsuchi that way! And even if he did -which he didn't- there was no way in hell she would like him back, why would she? He was the pariah of the village; a Genin that barely graduated by sheer dumb luck that on top of it didn't have any innate talent; an orphan whose name held no value. The difference between both of them was night and day, there was no chance that she would ever see him in any romantic light. So he didn't see any need to put a hamper on their relationship when it was impossible it would ever become something more.
And with that in mind, he returned to the base of the waterfall. He wasn't in the mood to return to his training right now after what Yamato had told him and besides, his clones had been at it the whole day which was practically the same as if he had been with them. It couldn't be helped, he just wasn't happy right now after being informed that his relationship with Kurotsuchi was borderline disastrous. Was their friendship bad? Could it really cause such terrible things? He didn't want to think about it, she was one of his precious people, his best friend, he didn't want this to affect the way they acted around each other.
Naruto frowned, these kinds of political stuff weren't his forte, and if it could hinder one of his friendships then he really hated the issue altogether. He decided that he would not be able to focus on his training the way he was right now, so he made a hand seal to dispel all the clones and get their accumulated knowledge at the very least. But he had forgotten momentarily the mental strain doing so caused, and after his copies disappeared he felt his mind clouding with stress until it was overbearing that everything went dark.
By the time Naruto opened his eyes it was already nighttime, which was evident when the first thing he saw when he opened his eyes was the bright stars in the night sky. He was laying on the ground with a rolled futon serving as a pillow and had a blanket over him. He groaned as he put a hand on his head, feeling a pulsating pain from the stress.
''About time you woke up, sleepy head''
Naruto sat up at the sound of the voice and glanced to his side to see Kurotsuchi laying next to him on a blanket and looking at him with a smirk as she supported her head with her hand.
''Kurotsuchi?'' Said Naruto with surprise. ''What happened?''
''You passed out. Again'' Said Kurotsuchi. ''That was a few hours ago, though. You really were down this time''
''I see'' Said Naruto. ''What about Kakashi-Sensei and the others?''
''He and that Yamato guy are over there, already sleeping'' Said Kurotsuchi pointing with her thumb behind her where Naruto could in fact see Kakashi and Yamato sleeping soundly in futons several yards away while Yugao sat on a log looking at the teenagers, obviously keeping watch over Kurotsuchi even now. ''As for Sakura and that faggot Sai they already left''
''Why didn't they go too?'' Asked Naruto. It wasn't like they had to stay just because he passed out. They could just as easily have dropped him in his apartment and be done with it.
''They Said that you would probably not move from here until you finished with the waterfall thing'' Said the girl with a shrug.
Naruto nodded in understanding and he smiled. Kakashi-Sensei knew him better than he thought, that had been exactly what he had intended to do.
''And how is your training going?'' Asked Kurotsuchi. ''Are your blackouts and headaches worth it at the very least?''
''Hard to say, my head is a mess right now. But I think that it is, I can definitely feel the progress that my clones did'' Said the blond. ''And what about you? What did Kakashi-Sensei give you to do?''
''Meh, I'm learning a fire Jutsu, the Gokakyu to be exact. Nothing special really'' Said Kurotsuchi with a wave of her hand.
''The same Jutsu as Sasuke?'' Thought Naruto, remembering the similarities that Sakura pointed out of Team Seven's past to now with Kurotsuchi around, it really did feel like old times. ''Did you finish it?'' Asked Naruto.
''I'm close, I should have it done tomorrow or so'' Said Kurotsuchi.
Naruto couldn't believe it! She would have it down by tomorrow? But she just started. Just was he expected of his best friend. Suddenly, Naruto's thoughts stopped dead in their tracks. ''My best friend?!'' He never realized until now that he had started thinking about Kurotsuchi as his best friend for a while now. But, wasn't Sasuke his best friend anymore then? It certainly felt as if he was replacing Sasuke with Kurotsuchi, both as a friend and as a member of Team Seven and that was an uncomfortable thought for the boy. Not to mention of what Yamato had told him earlier about the dangers of his friendship with the Iwa girl.
''I can't waste my time laying around'' Said Naruto, intending to stand up and return to the waterfall. He hoped maybe a bit more training could help him clear his mind from his doubts. But as he tried to stand he felt a sharp pain in his head as he groaned, putting a hand on his forehead. Kurotsuchi saw that and pulled him to the ground again by the back of his shirt.
''You idiot! You are in no condition to go back to train so soon after you just woke up!'' Berated the girl. ''Honestly, why do you have to rush everything all the time? You are going to end up hurting yourself''
''Sorry'' Said Naruto simply, not feeling good to even discuss right now.
Kurotsuchi noted the blond to be a bit gloomy but she just attributed it yo his tiredness. ''Just relax, will ya? at least for a little while''
Naruto took a deep breath and did as she told him. He put his head on the rolled up futon again as he stared at the sky and he could admit that just enjoying the gentle breeze of the night as he watched the stars was nice. ''You are right, this is relaxing''
''You would do well to do this more often, you are always so...umm...restless'' Said the girl, rolling a bit until she too was staring at the sky.
They just stared silently at the stars contently, Kurotsuchi just enjoying the well-deserved rest while Naruto tried to keep his mind off the previous issues.
''It's been a while since we last did this'' Said Kurotsuchi. ''Look at the sky together, I mean. When we were in Suna was the last time''
''That's true'' Said Naruto. ''Did you do this a lot in Iwa?''
''Sometimes. I have always liked to look at the sky just to think, especially when I was feeling down or when I wanted to be alone'' Admitted the girl with a serious face.
Naruto could relate to that, he himself did it sometimes atop the Yondaime's head at the Hokage monument. Whenever he had a bad day or when people had been especially mean to him that day it helped him calm down. He guessed that she had to do it for similar reasons, well, at least for when she had a bad day as he doubted she had problems with Iwa citizens, but everyone had times when they felt bad or when their day wasn't going well.
''Looking at the sky, I wonder what everyone is doing back home'' Continued the girl. ''I would love to know what my dad, Akatsuchi, and my grandpa are doing right now'' Would they be thinking of her just like she was of them? And if they did were they worried for her safety? While she did hope that they cared she also didn't want them worrying to death even though she knew that at the very least her dad would be.
''I know that you'll see them again and sooner rather than later if I can do something about it. Also, I'm sure that they are thinking about you, I would be too in their place'' Said Naruto.
''Thank you'' Said the girl with gratitude and they contemplated the stars for a couple more minutes until she talked again. ''I wish I could have cherished more those times, I thought that they would never end''
''I bet that you did all kinds of cool stuff with your friends there'' Said Naruto, trying to make the girl think of the good times she had instead of dwelling on the fact that she couldn't see them.
''Well, to be honest, I mostly just hang with Akatsuchi and my family. Akatsuchi is always making gramps lose his temper but is always funny when it happens'' Said the girl with a small laugh. ''My grandpa always ends up regretting taking us all to dine every time Akatsuchi makes the bill's price skyrocket''
''That must suck for your grandpa'' Said Naruto with a smile. that sounded very similar to how Asuma-Sensei ends up broke when he pays for Team Ten's food with Chouji on the team.
Naruto appreciated these little moments between them, it really was nice to just kick back and relax with his friend. But Yamato's words came back to him and he felt his worries returning. He did not want to lose this, she was his best friend. And that was another thing, it also confused him that he had started thinking of her as his best friend instead of Sasuke but instead of keeping this to himself he wanted to ask for her opinion as she was concerned too.
''Kurotsuchi'' Said Naruto, catching the girl's attention as she moved her head to the side to stare directly at him.
''What is it?'' Said the girl.
Naruto paused for a moment, trying to find the words to say this to her without being too obvious to what he was talking about. ''What would you do if you wanted to do something but doing so would put other people at risk?''
''What do you mean by that?'' Inquired the girl, not understanding what Naruto was talking about.
Naruto decided to be just a bit more specific. ''What if you wanted to be with someone but doing so had the risk of putting others at in danger? People that you love?''
''I still don't understand'' Said Kurotsuchi.
''I'm sorry I...I can't tell you directly what I mean'' Said Naruto.
Kurotsuchi tried to think about what the blond said. Wanting to be with someone but in doing so there was apparently some danger even to others? She would like to know what drove Naruto to ask such question. The only thing she could think about was that he wanted to be with Sakura or something and he was scared of the Kyuubi breaking loose and hurting everyone? It was a possibility since some Jinchuuriki avoided relationships altogether because of the fear of losing control when they were subjected to such an emotional bond. ''What you are asking is if you should still try to be with that someone despite the dangers of it or let them go for everyone's sakes?''
Naruto nodded, confirming what she guessed.
Kurotsuchi could see why this would worry Naruto, it was just like him to be thinking about the wellbeing of other people even if that meant to jeopardize his own happiness. Nevertheless, even if she didn't know the full details she was going to help in what she could. ''I think is very noble of you to think of the happiness of others before your own, but to be honest if I was in your place I would just continue to be with the person I wanted to be with''
That had been unexpected. Naruto was certain that she would tell him to cut ties since Shinobi were supposed to protect their village and peers above all else and she was always striving to be the image of the perfect Shinobi. ''B-But the risks...''
''To hell with them'' Interrupted Kurotsuchi, taking Naruto by surprise. ''Life is full of risks, we can't live in fear of acting just because things could go wrong. As Shinobi, we take risks and put our life on the line knowing that every day could be our last. The only thing we can do is to give our very best and if those dangers do come to bite us in the ass we face them and we beat them, simple as that''
Naruto stared in amazement at the face full of conviction of Kurotsuchi. That was true, he could not go around worrying about what might happen. The only thing he could do was to give it his all as she said and any hardship that presented itself he would beat them. He gave her heartfelt smile, thankful for her advice. ''You are right, I can't stop doing things just because I'm afraid of the consequences''
''Of course I'm right. I'm surprised I even need to tell all this to you, considering that you seem to be positiveness incarnate'' Said Kurotsuchi, also smiling at him.
Naruto felt silly for having even considered breaking off their relationship. Now he didn't even care if he considered her his best friend over Sasuke, she had certainly earned the title and he was replacing no one, Kurotsuchi's place in his life was different from Sasuke's and he was glad for it, glad to have her by his side.
''All right! Now I'll get it this time!'' Said Naruto, getting up from his spot in an instant.
''What are you doing?'' Asked Kurotsuchi, weirded out by the blond's sudden action.
''I'm feeling pretty good. I know I'll split the waterfall this time!'' Declared Naruto. At the moment, he felt like he could no anything. After that, he went over to the waterfall and started to climb it to reach the bridge.
Kurotsuchi was going to remind him of his previous headache but she refrained from doing so. He looked much better now so she decided to just watch and see.
Once Naruto was on the bridge and had resummoned his army of clones, he and his doppelgangers put their hands again on the water current, focusing and gathering their Chakra before they gave a mighty and released their energy, splitting the current as they kept the water from falling.
''I did it! Look Kurotsuchi, I did it!'' Yelled Naruto in joy as he kept the water in place.
Kurotsuchi crossed her arms as she smirked at the boy's progress. She knew that he would get it in time.
The ruckus had woken up Kakashi and Yamato, who were now sitting up on their futons staring at the display with Yugao standing beside them.
''It looks like she isn't the only one making rapid progress'' Said the ANBU.
Yamato nodded in agreement as Kakashi continued to watch silently.
''Making them train together was the correct choice, after all'' Thought the Sharingan user. He knew that as long as they both continued to support each other like this they would keep growing. ''I know you would be proud, Sensei''
Author's notes:
First of all, I'm sorry for taking so long to update. I have no excuse I just wasn't feeling the inspiration most of the time. While I did get busy for a while as I went on a vacation and had exam season, those things took like three weeks tops and I've been gone for much longer so I really have no excuse but to say that I'm deeply sorry. Not only I wasn't feeling the inspiration in this chapter I also have been debating heavily with myself on certain plot points that are to come that I just can't seem to decide on how to go about them. I really should consider getting some of my readers to discuss them nd it might help me not get stuck for so long.
Okay, back to the chapter, I know I might have made Yamato seem a bit annoying and I didn't mean to do it, but I do feel that with Yamato's serious and to-the-point attitude he has it would make sense for him to step in and try to do something about Naruto and Kurotsuchi's relationship.
So, as always, I hope you enjoyed and please review or PM me if you got the time! See you soon!
