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 26: Matchmaking

Kurotsuchi swung the sword in her hands, crashing against another blade with a loud noise, gritting her teeth as she tried to overpower her opponent.

''You'll have to do better than that'' Replied Yugao as she held her own sword firmly, pushing back Kurotsuchi's attack.

The Iwa Kunoichi clicked her tongue before she gave a mighty push, shoving Yugao back to gain a bit of distance and taking the chance to make a three-sixty turn and swing her blade again at the older woman's midsection.

Yugao skillfully parried the swing, using the momentum of the attack to thrust Kurotsuchi's swing to the side leaving the girl momentarily open, a chance that Yugao took by doing an upwards slash at Kurotsuchi.

The pink-eyed girl barely had time to reach as she did a quick back flip to avoid the ANBU's blade but Yugao pressed her assault, rushing to Kurotsuchi with a barrage of swings that the girl rapidly blocked left and right with the occasional upwards or downwards slash until she finally blocked a middle one that left them both in a standstill again as they both pushed against each other.

Instead of pushing Kurotsuchi away, Yugao closed the distance between them as they struggled, and when the girl was within arm's length the ANBU put all of her strength on one arm to hold the blade in place while she used her other arm to slip past the girl's defense and strike her chest with the elbow.

The blow made Kurotsuchi lose her breath for a moment which Yugao used to kick the girl back and make her lose her balance which caused her to fall to the floor on her rear. Now with Kurotsuchi down, Yugao gave a swift movement of her blade, striking Kurotsuchi's dulled blade that sent the weapon flying to the side, effectively disarming her.

Before Kurotsuchi could stand up again in an attempt to retrieve her weapon, Yugao had already the tip of her sword at her throat keeping her from doing any more moves.

''Looks like I win once again'' Declared the ANBU with a victorious smirk, still keeping the blade's tip just a few centimeters away from the younger girl's neck.

''Tch, fine. Just stop rubbing it on my face'' Said the annoyed Kurotsuchi as she pushed the blade to the side with one hand before she stood up shaking up the dust from her clothes as she did.

Just like Kurotsuchi had predicted, earlier in the day she finally finished learning the Gokakyu and after that, she got Yugao to help her in her Kenjutsu like she had promised. Since then, they had been practicing with dulled blades for hours now and Kurotsuchi had yet to win a single spar.

''Your skills are already pretty good, I don't think we'll have much trouble polishing your ability with the sword. You only need more experience and after I teach you a few blade techniques you should be fine'' Said Yugao. ''However, your main problem lies in that you rely solely on your speed and agility to strike swiftly and to avoid counterattacks in hopes to finish a battle quickly and in result, you are lacking in physical strength, so when you do face an opponent that can read your movements and block you accordingly you start to lose ground fast since you aren't strong enough to keep them from breaking your defense''

''So what do you recommend?'' Inquired Kurotsuchi sternly, still feeling the sting of her wounded pride.

''As I said, your skills are good enough, you just need more practice and a few Kenjutsu techniques and you are good to go. But my advice is that you train on the side to increase your physical strength''

''You have any suggestions on how to do that?'' Asked Kurotsuchi, crossing her arms over her chest.

''I do but I don't know if you'll like the idea'' Warned Yugao.

''Let's hear it out anyway'' Insisted the tomboy.

''I think that what you need is the help of a Taijutsu specialist, and the best one I know is Gai so...'' Explained Yugao.

''No, you can't mean...'' Said Kurotsuchi in panic. Train with Team Gai?! She didn't dislike the man and she got along well enough with Lee and Tenten, but the green duo's eccentricities along with the rumors of their legendary overly demanding training were sure to test not only her body's limits but also her patience. And that was without taking into account that Neji hated her guts.

Yugao nodded apologetically. ''Sorry, but I think that Gai is your best shot when it comes to that''

Kurotsuchi huffed in annoyance and resignation. Knowing Team Gai it was unlikely that they would say no to training her, they had already invited her to train before in fact, but that didn't mean that she was looking forward to it. ''I wonder if Naruto's training is going better than mine right now...''

Meanwhile, at the other side of the training grounds, Naruto and a dozen clones were lined up against each other as they quickly did some hand seals before thrusting their palms toward some trees. ''Futon: Reppusho!(Wind Release: Gale Palm)'' Yelled the squad of blonds but they only managed to produce a weak gust of air that barely rustled the leaves of the trees.

Naruto gritted his teeth in frustration before he glanced at his mentors. ''This is not working, Kakashi-Sensei! I can't even move the damn branches much less blow away all the leaves''

Kakashi was reading a book a few meters behind Naruto with Yamato at his side. ''Keep trying, you are doing good. Just being able to produce an air current, even as weak as it is, is a huge accomplishment at this stage'' Said Kakashi calmly before flipping a page of his book.

''It doesn't feel like I'm doing any progress at all!'' Said Naruto. ''Besides, why am I learning this anyway? What would a simple burst of air do in a fight?'' They had told him that wind was one of the best elements for fighting but it sure didn't feel like it, he couldn't hurt an enemy with this Jutsu!

''Naruto, I have told you time and again to look underneath the underneath. Don't disregard a Jutsu just because at face value it doesn't look so strong'' Said Kakashi, still not looking away from his book.

''Kakashi-Senpai is correct. The Reppusho while not very damaging by itself can be used in a variety of ways which make it a very flexible Jutsu'' Said Yamato, deciding to help the copy ninja explain. ''You can use it alongside Shuriken to improve the velocity and piercing properties of the projectiles. It can be used to throw an enemy off-balance giving you a chance to counterattack while they recover their ground. Also, it can serve as a good collaboration Jutsu''

''For example, you can use it alongside Kurotsuchi's Gokakyu to boost her fire attack'' Said Kakashi which earned him a scolding look of Yamato to which Kakashi didn't pay any mind.

What Yamato wanted was for Naruto to get away from the girl and here Kakashi was encouraging him to keep working together with her. He really could not understand why his veteran comrade didn't take seriously the threat that the relationship of those two presented.

''Oh, I see!'' Said Naruto widening his eyes in realization. ''Well, when you put it like that it doesn't seem so useless''

''Of course not, I would not teach you useless stuff, Naruto'' Said Kakashi, still reading. He was glad that Naruto understood. He needed the boy to have a better feel for his Wind Affinity for the exercise he had planned, which was improving the Rasengan. But it was best that Naruto got used to his element first before he put him to do such a difficult task.

''Now what do you say if we take a break? You have been going at it for a few hours now, at the very least leave your clones to do your work for a while'' Suggested Kakashi, causing the doppelgangers to groan in frustration.

''Good idea, I'll do just that!'' Said Naruto, stepping away from the formation leaving his copies by themselves.

Naruto decided to spend his break to see how Kurotsuchi was doing and hopefully have the time to hang out. And with that, he made his way to the other side of the training grounds to find Kurotsuchi and Yugao in a Kenjutsu spar. ''Hey, Kurotsuchi!'' Naruto called out to her.

Said Iwa girl and the ANBU stopped their barrage of attacks to see the blond approaching them. ''Naruto, what's the matter?'' Asked Kurotsuchi.

Naruto stopped in front of the two women and regarded them with a smile. ''Nothing, Kakashi-Sensei gave me a little bit of time to rest and I thought I would see if you were free too''

''I see'' Said Kurotsuchi with a pleasant grin. A break sounded like a good idea and hanging out with Naruto was always nice. She glanced to Yugao end looked at her in the eyes, silently asking her if she could take a break.

Yugao knew what the girl was asking of her and took a long sigh before answering. ''Fine. We'll continue later'' Said the ANBU, against her best judgment conceding Kurotsuchi the alone time she wanted with Naruto. She just knew she was going to regret all of this later.

''Thanks'' Replied Kurotsuchi.

Yugao waved off the comment. ''It's no big deal, this is your training anyway. We'll go at the pace you want. I'll be close by if you need anything'' Said Yugao before walking away.

Once they were left alone, Kurotsuchi turned to Naruto with the same amicable grin as before. ''So how is that Wind Jutsu coming?''

''Kakashi-Sensei says that I'm doing good but I'm not so sure. I can't make it do anything yet'' Said Naruto with a pout.

''Don't be so impatient, you have never learned any elemental Jutsu before so you won't get it down right away'' Said the tomboy.

''I know but I can't help but be frustrated'' Added Naruto. ''And what about you? Have you learned more cool sword moves yet?''

''I'm on it, I think I'm getting the hang of them slowly'' Said Kurotsuchi.

While the two teenagers continued their conversation, they were unaware of two other individuals watching them from the nearby forest.

''Finally they came together. I was starting to wonder how long we would have to wait'' Said Ino as she peeked from behind a tree. ''Anyway, the important thing is that we have them right where we want them. Are you ready, Sai-Kun?''

''I am'' Said Said as he too peeked at Naruto and Kurotsuchi from behind the same tree as Ino but from the other side. Nevertheless, he was more concerned about how Ino had suddenly started to call him 'Sai-Kun' and she almost purred the term all the while she blinked slowly at him when she did so. He didn't know if that was the way girls acted friendly but for some reason it made him feel slightly uncomfortable. Well, no matter, he was here with her on a mission and with a plan and he was going to execute it to the best of his ability like he always did on a mission. ''I'm ready, Ino-San''

''Just remember the plan, Sai-Kun'' Purred Ino, shooting a wink at Sai which caused him to shiver. ''Okay, let's go''

With their plan in mind, both of them stood out from their hiding places behind the tree and approached Kurotsuchi and Naruto. ''Hey guys, how's it going?!'' Said Ino with a wave of her hand.

Naruto and Kurotsuchi stopped their conversation to look in confusion at the newcomers walking towards them from the forest.

''Ino? And Sai, too?'' Asked Naruto. ''What are you guys doing here?''

''And what were you doing in there?'' Asked Kurotsuchi.

''We were just taking a nice stroll in the forest when we saw you guys and decided to say hello'' Explained Ino before turning to Sai. ''Isn't that right, Sai-Kun?''

''Yes'' Said Sai plainly.

''I didn't know you were friends'' Commented Naruto. Sai was socially clueless and an introvert that barely had any friends and Ino was his polar opposite, it was unexpected to see them getting along.

''A stroll through the forest?'' Thought Kurotsuchi with suspicion. It was a weird thing to be doing around in the training grounds, the could just as easily had gone to a park or something, unless...Kurotsuchi widened her eyes in shock and disgust, had they been doing dirty things and came here to have some privacy? She knew that Ino was pretty bold and all but she expected her to have better standards than the faggot.

''We met not too long ago but I'll tell you guys about that later'' Said Ino. ''Anyway, what are you guys doing here?''

''Training...'' Said Kurotsuchi. They were on training grounds what else would they be doing?

''Training, uh?'' Said Ino. Of course she had already known about that, she and Sai had spent a good while spying on them after all. ''What have you learned?''

''I'm learning to use my Elemental Nature!'' boasted Naruto.

''Ditto, but I'm also expanding the other skills I have'' Said Kurotsuchi, not elaborating more.

''I see'' Said Ino before she glanced at Sai and gently nudged him in the ribs.

Sai recognized that as his signal to use his lines. ''But haven't you practiced your Taijutsu?''

''Taijutsu? No, why do you ask?'' Said Naruto.

''I just thought it would be an important area to improve upon'' Said Sai. ''You especially would benefit from that, Naruto''

''What's that supposed to mean?'' Said an annoyed Naruto.

''D-Don't take it the wrong way!'' Said Ino with her hands up in appeasement. ''I'm sure that Sai-Kun didn't mean it like that. He was just saying that it is something that everyone can benefit from, he didn't mean any offense'' Damn it, Sai! He could have said that with more tact, they didn't come here to start a fight, that would just make things more difficult.

''Right, I'm sorry'' Sai apologized as he scratched the back of his head.

''It's fine I guess'' Said Naruto, dropping the issue. he already knew how dumb Sai was when it came to social interaction so he would cut him some slack.

''If you want I can help you with that part of your training'' Said Sai. ''Let's spar. the only way to improve is through action''

''Spar? Right now?'' Said Naruto.

''Why not? You were already training, right? Also, I'm pretty good in Taijutsu myself, I can teach you a few things'' Suggested Sai.

Naruto seemed to think it over for a moment before he smiled. He wasn't one to back down from a challenge and Sai was actually trying to be kind and help him, how could he say no? ''All right, I'll take you on!''

''Wait a minute, Sai-Kun! You were supposed to be on a walk with me!'' Said Ino, feigning anger. It was all part of the plan. ''You can't just ditch a girl like that!''

''C'mon, Ino! It will be a quick spar!'' Said Naruto. He didn't want to lose his sparring partner after he had been getting fired up already.

Sai nodded, apparently agreeing with Naruto. ''As Naruto-Kun says, this won't take long I just-''

''Absolutely not! I'm not letting you bail on me!'' Said Ino, keeping her charade before she put on a look of realization. ''Wait! I have a better idea! Kurotsuchi-San, why don't you spar with Naruto on Sai's place?''

''Me?'' Asked Kurotsuchi.

''Why not? That way you two can keep working together and me and Sai-Kun will be on our way and won't bother you anymore'' Said Ino eagerly.

''Well, I don't mind'' Said Naruto. He didn't see any problem with it, as long as he got to practice his Taijutsu it was all good to him, and if he did it with his best friend even better. ''What do you say, Kurotsuchi?''

Kurotsuchi bit her lip in thought, she didn't mind actually. Also, Yugao had already recommended to her to improve her physical skills, and if Naruto learned a thing or two from this then it was good for both. ''All right''

''Really?'' Asked Naruto. He was looking forward to this, honestly.

''Sure, it will be fun'' Replied the pink-eyed girl with a smirk.

''Great!'' Said Ino. ''All set, then! Sai-Kun and I will leave you guys alone so you can practice in peace. Come Sai-Kun, we should be on our way'' Said Ino as she walked off with a triumphant grin.

''I'm coming'' Said Sai, following Ino and leaving Naruto and Kurotsuchi by themselves.

With Ino and Sai gone, Naruto turned to Kurotsuchi. ''So, you want to do this right now or...?'' Asked Naruto, leaving the question hanging to let Kurotsuchi decide.

''Right now it's fine'' Said Kurotsuchi, getting herself into a combat position. ''This is a good time as any''

Naruto smiled at her, not rejecting the idea before he too got into a fighting stance. ''So, what are the rules?''

''Taijutsu only. No Ninjutsu, Genjutsu, or ninja weapons'' Said Kurotsuchi. ''Agreed?''

''Yeah'' Responded Naruto.

''Are you sure you are okay with no using your precious Kage Bunshin?'' Said Kurotsuchi slyly, not resisting making fun of Naruto even if it was in good fun.

''I'll show you I don't need clones all the time'' Said Naruto. ''Also, you can't use your sword or your Doton Jutsu so we are even''

''We'll see'' Responded Kurotsuchi, feeling confident in this.

They both stood facing each other, fists up and legs apart, ready to start at a moment's notice as they waited for any movement of their opponent.

Yugao, who had been watching on from the distance, found it curious that they seemed to be preparing for a spar, but since it appeared that it was just training, she just resorted to watching calmly just in case any of them threw a blow that got out of hand.

Naruto was the one to begin, he rapidly rushed towards Kurotsuchi, throwing two punches at the girl which Kurotsuchi easily ducked and dodged respectively.

Now that that their distance had been closed as Naruto was still upon her, he took the chance to throw a kick at her torso. Kurotsuchi bent her body backward, letting the kick fly over her and she used her position to do a reverse cartwheel causing her foot to collide with Naruto's chin.

Naruto stumbled a bit at the blow as he held his chin, leaving an opening for Kurotsuchi to continue her assault. Naruto saw her approaching in time and he threw another punch to stop her advance. However, Kurotsuchi simply turned on her heel letting his punch fly past her over her shoulder as she positioned her back against Naruto's chest, grabbing his arm, using her foot to kick the boy's leg, and using the loss of balance of Naruto to pull him by the arm and throw him over her body.

Naruto's back hit the ground hard as he grunted in pain, leaving him laying on the ground staring at the grinning face of Kurotsuchi looking down at him.

''Are you all right? I thought you were gonna show me something?'' Said Kurotsuchi with amusement.

''That was a lucky shot, I was caught by surprise'' Said Naruto.

''Uh hu'' Said Kurotsuchi before she extended her hand to him. ''Here, let me help you''

''Thanks'' Said Naruto as he took her hand and stood up. ''I want a rematch''

''As you wish. Just make sure I don't catch you by surprise again'' Said Kurotsuchi with a smirk, taking a jab at his previous excuse.

Naruto's response was simply getting into a combat stance again and waited for her to do the same.

Kurotsuchi shrugged and mimicked his actions, all with a confident grin on her face.

As they started their sparring session again, they didn't realize that Sai and Ino resumed spying on them from the other side of the training grounds.

''Kurotsuchi-San's fighting style is pretty good. However, Naruto-Kun's needs a bit more polish'' Commented Sai as he held his chin, analyzing their battle in deep focus.

''Yeah yeah, never mind that'' Said Ino with a dismissive wave. ''We aren't doing this to study how they fight, remember?''

Sai glanced at her before nodding. He couldn't help it, this was more along the lines of his interests than playing 'matchmaker' as Ino called it. But just as she said, it was time to continue with their plan. Then, he pulled out a scroll, opened it, and made a single hand seal. ''Ninpo: Choju Giga(Ninja Art: Super Beast Imitating Drawing)'' With that, two small ink snakes came to life from the scroll as they slithered down onto the ground, the grass making it almost impossible to see such little creatures as they made their way to the two teenagers fighting.

Kurotsuchi skillfully dodged all the blows that Naruto threw at her no matter how many he attempted to follow his last attack with, making the blond get increasingly frustrated with this.

Naruto decided to try and rush her in an attempt to overwhelm her, but as he charged at her he didn't notice a small black snake rolling itself into his ankle, making him lose his footing as he tripped towards Kurotsuchi.

While the pink-eyed girl did manage to see in time Naruto stumbling towards her she could not get out of the way as another snake held her own foot in place. Kurotsuchi didn't have much time to wonder what the hell was going on when Naruto crashed into her, sending both of them to the ground.

Naruto groaned as he lifted his head before glancing down and widening his eyes in shock at seeing Kurotsuchi's equally bewildered face staring back at him.

Their breaths died in their throats as their noses were almost touching. Neither one of them did anything for several seconds as their surprise left them immobile.

Kurotsuchi's face heated up, feeling the warmth of Naruto's body pressing against her as he laid on her made her realize the intimate position they both were in.

They had been still for a while now until Naruto finally snapped out of his trance and he hastily removed himself from atop her. ''K-Kurotsuchi, I-I am so sorry! I didn't mean to, I mean...'' Said Naruto trying to explain himself as he sat away from her.

''D-Don't worry, I know it wasn't your fault'' Said Kurotsuchi as she sat up, though she was still flustered and avoided looking Naruto's way.

Naruto was mortified. It hadn't been his intention to fall over her! And much less in such a way. However, he couldn't deny that it had felt...nice? Anyway, he didn't have time to think about it too much. After what he had done he just hoped that things would not be awkward after this.

Kurotsuchi was still avoiding looking at Naruto, not out of anger but out of nervousness. She brought a hand to her chest, trying to calm the rapid beating of her heart. Why was she reacting like this? It had been a simple mistake and that was that. there was no need to overreact, but then why did she feel this strange feeling? It was weird, it felt like a mixture of tension but also of pleasure, of longing, but longing for what?. Wait, did that mean she had enjoyed that? Maybe she was overthinking this too much. This reaction had to be because she wasn't used to such close contact with people.

As that happened, Ino looked on at the scene with Sai at her side. She had her hands clasped together and a disappointed face marred her features. What had happened?! The setup had been perfect, why didn't they kiss or something?! She knew they had yearned for something more, the sexual tension could be felt all the way over there and it almost hurt.

Sai noticed the look on Ino's face and wondered what her problem was. ''Are you all right, Ino-San?''

''We'll need to keep going. That one stunt wasn't enough'' Declared Ino.

Sai didn't know what made Ino said that. the attempt had looked good to him. The situation obviously had an effect on them so that had to account for something.

Back with Naruto and Kurotsuchi, they were both still flustered at the events that had just transpired and were still sitting down avoiding looking at each other in the eye.

Kurotsuchi attempted to take the first step out of this uncomfortable situation and attempted to stand. ''You want to try again sparring again or- Ouch!'' She sat back down again when she felt a sudden pain on her back. In her shock, she didn't even realize that she had hurt herself when she fell. It didn't feel too bad, it was probably just a scratch but the unexpected soreness had taken her by surprise.

''Are you okay, Kurotsuchi?!'' Asked Naruto in worry when he saw her reaction and went over to her to inspect her back.

However, Kurotsuchi stopped Naruto, grabbing him by the shoulder when he got close to check on her. ''It's okay, I'm fine. So don't-'' Her words halted when they locked eyes for a brief moment, remembering what just happened moments ago before, both of them looked away again sheepishly and sat again without another word.

Ino wasn't having any more of that, though. If they weren't going to do anything more but sit like morons then she would do something about it. But for her misfortune she also saw Yugao approaching from the distance, she probably also saw the whole thing and decided to check what was going on herself. But Ino highly doubted that the ANBU was going to help her cause so she had to do something to keep her from interfering.

''Damn it. Sai-Kun, I'll need you to distract miss party pooper over there'' Said Ino as she pointed at the still approaching Yugao.

''How do I do that?'' Asked Sai.

''I don't know. Think of something'' Said Ino before she pushed Sai forward. ''Just go!''

The ROOT member complied and rapidly made his way to Yugao before she could interfere.

Yugao didn't know what was going on but when she saw Naruto fall on top of Kurotsuchi was when she decided to check that everything was fine, even more when they began acting strangely. But before she could get any closer to the two teenagers, Sai appeared before her with an uncertain expression on his face.

''Sai? What are you doing here?'' Asked Yugao.

''I always come here to check on Naruto-Kun and Kurotsuchi-San's training'' Said Sai.

''I know that, but don't think I haven't seen you and that Yamanaka girl prowling around. What are you guys plotting?'' Inquired Yugao with suspicion as she crossed her arms.

''We aren't plotting anything. Ino-San is just a friend that I like to spend time with'' Said Sai.

''Whatever you say. Anyway, I have things to do. See you around, kid'' Said Yugao, attempting to leave Sai behind and continue on her way only for said young man to block her path again.

''Now what?'' Said Yugao.

''Actually, I wanted to talk to you, Yugao-San'' Said Sai, trying to find more excuses to stall for as long as he could.

Yugao raised an eyebrow. She and Sai weren't even friends, heck not too long ago she didn't even like him. ''Okay. What did you want to tell me?''

''I wanted to apologize for my past actions. I know that I didn't make the best first impression and I wanted to make amends'' Said Sai.

Yugao was glad to see that Sai at least was trying to better himself. Still, she would rather have him do that at another time when she wasn't busy. ''I appreciate the thought and I admit you aren't as bad as I thought. But right now I'm in the middle of something. I'll see you later'' Said Yugao, once again walking away from the pale-skinned boy.

Sai stared at Yugao go with disappointment evident on his face. Well, he had tried his best. He and Ino would simply have to think of another thing. ''See you later, bimbo''

In an instant, Yugao stopped dead in her tracks which made Sai stare at her curiously. Then, the ANBU slowly turned around to look at Sai with a cold look on her eyes. ''Bimbo?''

Sai blinked in confusion, he had just tried to be amicable. ''What? I told you I wanted to start over and give you a nickname as a friend''

''And bimbo is the best you could think of?!'' Said Yugao aggravated.

''The book I read said that nicknames are usually picked from a person's physical characteristics'' Explained Sai.

''Then why bimbo?!'' Asked Yugao, getting more agitated by the second.

''You know, because of your excessive makeup'' Said Sai.

Yugao's eyed widened in horror. Did she really use too much makeup?!

''And because of your 'assets' too'' Continued Sai.

Yugao couldn't help staring at her chest before she went back to stare coldly at Sai after that remark. ''Excuse me?'' Muttered the ANBU with a deadly tone.

Sai seemed oblivious to her increased annoyance. ''And also because of your-'' Sai was interrupted when a Kunai went flying past his face making a shallow cut on his cheek. It was then when Sai realized he had made a mistake on his social interactions. Again.

''I'll give you a ten-second head start'' Said Yugao.

''Wait a minute, Yugao-San. You misunderstand...'' Said Sai, trying to explain himself.

''One'' Said Yugao, uncaring for what he had to say.

''I was just trying to be friendly...''

''Two'' Said Yugao simply in response. ''I would start running if I were you. Five''

Sai knew that it was useless trying to explain himself further as this point, so he just took the woman's advice and turned tail from there with Yugao following after him soon after.

''You better hope I don't catch up to you, brat!'' Yelled Yugao as the both of them left the training grounds with the ANBU in hot pursuit of the ROOT member.

Ino sighed as she saw them leave. She didn't know what Sai had said to her, it was too far away to make up what they had talked about, but it was clear that he had made her angry. Oh well, that would buy her some time. Then, she sprinted over to where Naruto and Kurotsuchi were sitting. ''Hey guys, what's wrong? What are you doing on the floor?'' Said Ino with a wave as she ran to them.

That caused both Naruto and Kurotsuchi to direct their attention to her.

''Ino, do you know what's up with Sai and Yugao?'' Said Naruto after having just witnessed the ANBU giving chase to the pale boy.

''Don't mind them, it's nothing'' Said Ino. ''More importantly, what are you guys doing sitting there?''

''We tripped'' Said Kurotschi simply.

''And are you guys okay?'' Asked Ino remembering how Naruto had attempted to check on Kurotsuchi before.

''I hit my back, but I'm fine. It was just a scratch'' Said Kurotsuchi.

''Even so, let me see. It might get infected'' Said the Yamanaka.

''I told you, I'm fine. You don't need to concern yourself with it'' Said Kurotsuchi.

''Nonsense! It really is no problem'' Insisted Ino as she knelt down behind the tomboy.

Kurotsuchi rolled her eyes. It really wasn't a big deal but if Ino wanted so badly to help then so be it.

Seeing that Kurotsuchi wasn't objecting anymore, Ino took that as a sign to continue. She gently lifted the back of Kurotsuchi's shirt, being mindful to just lift the back, with Naruto present and all, and she could indeed see a small cut in the small of Kurotsuchi's back. It wasn't serious or anything, in fact, it was just a few centimeters long and it was so superficial that it didn't even bled. Nonetheless, she was still determined to use this chance to get Naruto and Kurotsuchi closer and she was going to do her best.

''It is a small cut'' Conceded Ino. ''We should still treat it, though. I have some ointment in my pouch, we should apply some to the wound''

''Fine, if you wish. But I would barely call it a wound'' Said Kurotsuchi.

Now that it was settled, Ino stood up and proceeded to pull out a small round container before she offered it to Naruto. ''Here you go''

''What?!'' Said Naruto and Kurotsuchi at the same time.

''Wait a minute, I thought that you were going to apply it!'' Said Kurotsuchi.

''That's right! Why should I do it?! You do it'' Said Naruto.

''I can't, I have to get going. I need to make sure that your ANBU friend doesn't kill Sai-Kun'' Said Ino hastily as she prepared to leave. ''Farewell, guys! See you another time!'' And before either Naruto or Kurotsuchi could complain, Ino was gone.

Naruto stared at the ointment in his hands, wondering what he should do. He glanced over at Kurotsuchi as if silently asking if it was okay for him to apply it instead.

Kurotsuchi was unsure of what to do. While the action itself wasn't anything special, the fact that the one involved was Naruto made her fidgety. But they weren't doing anything wrong. It was just rubbing a little bit of ointment and that was it. ''Go ahead, I don't mind. That is if you want'' Said Kurotsuchi finally.

''Sure'' Said Naruto. He didn't have a problem per se, but for some reason he felt very nervous about doing it. But if Kurotsuchi was okay with it then it shouldn't be a problem. He positioned himself behind Kurotsuchi before he realized that he needed to lift her shirt, even if just the back side. ''May I?'' Asked Naruto timidly, very odd coming from the usually extroverted blond.

With her nerves, Kurotsuchi didn't immediately catch on what Naruto was asking but when she did she froze up, going as rigid as a plank of wood. She had to remind herself that this was just a friend treating a wound of another friend. ''You may'' Said Kurotsuchi, going red in the face once again.

Now that he had her approval, Naruto gulped hard before he brought his hand to the back end of Kurotsuchi's shirt and delicately lifted it up carefully to expose just the back of the girl and he continued until it revealed the small of the back where the wound was. He noted that it wasn't big, which was a relief. Then he used his ointment-coated fingers to gently brush the scratch, which caused Kurotsuchi to jerk up with a shiver. ''Sorry, did that hurt?''

''J-Just a little bit, it just took me by surprise. you can continue'' Said Kurotsuchi. In reality, the pain could barely be felt. It was Naruto's touch that caused that reaction in her but she would rather the boy not know.

Naruto nodded as he continued to rub the ointment along the length of the wound while Kurotsuchi tried to keep herself from shivering any more at the contact. Naruto for his part noticed how soft and smooth Kurotsuchi's skin felt. Also, he could not spot any blemishes on the skin of her back save for a few scars that she had no doubt sustained throughout her career along with the well-toned muscles he could see even from just her back.

''Is everything all right?'' Asked Kurotsuchi which made Naruto snap out of his trance. He had been too focused on admiring her that he hadn't noticed when he stopped applying the ointment.

''Yeah, I'm finished'' Said Naruto, retracting his hand off her back.

Kurotsuchi nodded as she pulled her shirt back down again.

If things had been awkward before now they were even more so. Just this little bit of contact between them had been enough to stir a feeling within them that they could not identify and left them equally confused and anxious.

''You know, I think I'll see you later. I remembered I had to do something'' Said Kurotsuchi suddenly, standing up. ''Good luck on your training'' Finished the girl as she walked away.

''Thanks. I'll see you later'' Replied Naruto as he watched her go. Well, that had been awkward. He didn't know what had happened or why things had been as uncomfortable like that for no reason. He knew that Kurotsuchi probably left because she felt the need to let things cool down and Naruto could agree with that, but what he didn't know ehat was that needed to cool down. They weren't angry or anything but they both realized that they had to let things deflate or something was going to happen and they had both been scared to find out.

Kurotsuchi needed to get away from Naruto for a while. She had to. She didn't know what had happened or why she reacted the way she did, but it made her wary, anything that she did not understand made her wary. She supposed -or would rather think, anyway- that whatever...that had been it was a one-time thing and they just needed some time apart to clear their head since just being around each other seemed to make everything worse with each passing minute.

That's why Kurotsuchi had walked all the way across Konoha to the other side of the village and into another training grounds but this time she was in search of a particular team. She hadn't planned on coming looking for them so soon but she needed to get her mind away from Naruto for the time being so this was as good time as any.

The training ground was very reminiscent of the other she used with Naruto, save for the giant waterfall they made that is, and she was quick to spot the group of people she had come looking for: Team Gai.

When she found them, Tenten had been throwing ninja tools at some posts with targets painted on them, Neji had been meditating sitting cross-legged at the base of a tree, and Lee and Gai had been doing pushups at a ridiculously fast pace. It didn't take long for them to spot her as she approached them.

''Hey, it's Kurotsuchi-San!'' Exclaimed Lee as he got on his feet with his Sensei grinning once he saw the girl too.

''If it isn't young Kurotsuchi! Good to see you again, miss!'' Said Gai with a gleaming smile.

Tenten too had stopped doing her target practice to greet the girl. ''It's been a while since we last saw you. I hope you have been doing fine, girl'' Said Tenten amicably.

Neji didn't welcome her and just stayed under his tree with a scowl on his face for having been interrupted and by Kurotsuchi nonetheless.

''Hey'' Said Kurotsuchi, finding it herself to return their smiles. Team Gai had been friendly to her ever since they met, save for Neji who hated her, and she didn't have any hard feelings towards them for giving her the benefit of the doubt. And even if spending large amounts of time around Gai and Lee was a bit tiring she could tolerate it. ''It's true, I haven't seen you guys in a while. What have you been up to?''

''I could ask you the same thing'' Said Tenten. ''We mostly just train and do missions, you know, the usual''

''As Tenten says, we have been keeping our flames of youth strong and bright!'' Said Lee with a thumbs up. ''We rarely do anything else so it is nice to see you again, Kurotsuchi-San''

''And speaking of which, what brings you young Kurotsuchi here today?'' Asked Gai. ''Have you perhaps accepted our offer to train?''

''Yes, I have'' Said Kurotsuchi which caused the members of Team Gai to stare at her in shock and amazement, even Neji looked at her perplexed.

That was something that not even Gai had expected. Despite his constant offers of training that he gave other people no one ever really took it for some reason, so it came as a surprise that someone finally came to train with his team.

''Wonderful! You don't know how happy this makes me, Young Kurotsuchi!'' Exclaimed Gai with tears in his eyes, raising his fist in a dramatic pose. ''You are the first person outside of my team to willingly come to me for training!''

''I'm honored...'' Said Kurotsuchi with a nervous smile. She hoped that this had been a good idea. If no one ever came to Gai for training there had to be a good reason for that. Also, the look of pity that Tenten was shooting her didn't help to comfort her.

''But if I may ask, what is it that you want to improve on? Just so I know the kind of training to give you'' Said Gai excitedly.

''I want to improve my physical strength and I heard that you were one of the best when it came to physical prowess'' Said Kurotsuchi.

''Indeed! I'm not Konoha's best Taijutsu specialist for nothing'' Said Gai as he searched one of the pockets on his jacket. ''If it is gaining more physical strength I know just the stuff you need''

Kurotsuchi was starting to wonder what Gai had in mind when he presented to her a small bracelet that seemed to have what appeared to be little rectangular weights attached to it.

''If you use these while you train they will help your muscles develop faster'' Said Gai. ''What do you say?''

''Why do you carry those around?'' Asked Kurotsuchi.

''Just in case for occasions like these. But that is not important. Why don't you try them on?'' Suggested the Taijutsu master as he pulled more weighted bracelets and anklets from his flak jacket.

''Right now?'' Asked Kurotsuchi. She hadn't expected to be trained right away.

''Well, of course! The sooner we start the better!'' Said Gai.

Kurotsuchi shrugged before grabbing the weights from Gai's hands. It wasn't like she had anything to do so there really was no reason to not train. She noted that the weight did feel heavy indeed, which was good, it meant that they would most likely be effective. She adjusted the bracers and anklets and moved her limbs to test how much they limited her movement. It was a bit difficult but it was still manageable.

''They fit you well!'' Boasted Gai before making a hand seal. ''Then we can start properly. I'll activate the seals on them''

'Wait, what?' Kurotsuchi yelped in surprise as the sudden increase in weight lurched her onto the floor face down.

The violent stumble of the girl caused the members of Team Gai -Save for Neji, who just smiled contently at the girl's misfortune- to panic as they were by her side in an instant.

''Kurotsuchi-San!'' Yelled Tenten and Lee in unison as the weapons user shook the fell girl's shoulder.

''Are you okay?!'' Asked the worried Gai.

Slowly, Kurotsuchi moved her arms to support herself as she lifted herself up. She spat a bit of the dirt in her mouth before turning to glare at Gai. ''What the fuck?! Are you trying to kill me?!''

''I'm sorry, I should have told you they had weight seals on them'' Said Gai sheepishly. ''Anyway, if you are fine, let's continue with the training''

Kurotsuchi stood up, her movements were clumsy as she could barely move her limbs and when she finally stood up she could barely keep standing. ''Training like this? What do you expect me to do?!''

''Don't worry, we'll start with light exercise before getting into the tougher stuff'' Said Gai. ''Now, give me one hundred laps around the training grounds!''

Kurotsuchi stared at Gai in disbelief. This was light exercise?!

''And to keep you motivated I'll have Tenten here throw Kunai at you if you slow down'' Said Gai to the dismay of Kurotsuchi.

''I'm sorry about this, Kurotsuchi-San'' Said Tenten with an apologetic look.

Kurotsuchi was horrified. What had she gotten herself into?

''Everyone ready? Start!'' Declared Gai loudly.

''Wait! I wasn't re-'' Kurotsuchi was interrupted as she barely avoided a Kunai aimed at her. Realizing that she should better get a move on or she would be turned into a pincushion. With great effort, the girl somehow managed a to sprint, albeit at a very clumsy and awkward pace and not to mention much slower than her usual speed. She gasped desperately as Kunai and Shuriken impacted the ground she just passed. As she did that, Lee caught up to Kurotsuchi and started running alongside her, but he was upside down using his hands to run instead of his feet.

''Come on, Kurotsuchi-San. I know you can do it, is not as hard once you get used to it'' Said Lee as he continued to sprint at her side using his arms.

Kurotsuchi was too tired already and out of breath to give any rebuttal to Lee so she saved her energy and kept running as avoiding the sharp objects was more important than a snarky comment. she was starting to see why everyone avoided training with Gai like the plague.

Meanwhile, Neji stood sitting below the same tree that Kurotsuchi had found him since she arrived. He was looking at the girl's struggles with a smirk on his face. This wasn't going to be as bad as he had thought.

Author's note:

Here it is, guys! I apologize since this chapter isn't as long as usual, but I had to split it into two.

Good news is that I think (emphasis on 'think') that I finally decided how I'm going to go about the story!

Don't get me wrong, is not like I hadn't planned how the story was going to be because I had planned most of it since the beginning, like 85% of it more or less. But I hadn't decided fully on how to structure it, and what I mean by that is that come conflicts could happen this way or that way, or they could happen early and how they would affect the story. But I think I finally found a way to connect everything I had planned that's what I'm trying to say and I hope this means I won't get writer's block as often if I know what I'm supposed to be aiming for.

Well, that's all for now. Please review or PM me if you have the chance and I'll see you guys soon!