With a burgeoning friendship with Kiba, Sakura faced the last week and a half of stamina, speed and strength training with determination until once again they'd accomplished their goal "Good work you lot" Gai nodded, as the only Jonin there.
Since Asuma had been called away on an B Ranked Escort Mission and Gai had been put in charge of the rest of their training for a week and four days "Yeah only feel like my limbs are gonna fall off" Tenten complained unhappily.
Even as she hastily unstrapped the weights from her body, glad to be rid of them "Quit complaining Tenten, your the only one who didn't complete the forty each exercise goal" Mamori snapped tired of the slightly older girl's mouth.
Tenten immediately glared but it didn't faze Mamori "Okay, okay no need to fight, what matter is that she improved alongside us right, that was the point of this training after all" Sakura quickly jumped between the two kunoichi.
Giving them both stern looks until Tenten looked away, Mamori huffed though before deflating, causing Gai to laugh boisterously like usual, even if it was weird they were slowly getting use to the odd Jonin with bushy brows and wearing green spandex.
And of course there was his mini me, who decided to pipe in "Do you know what your going to train in next youthful cherry blossom, or when your sensei will be back from his mission" Lee inquired, having lost the hearts in his eyes and settling into a nice easy friendship with Sakura.
"Mm Hokage-sama said Asuma-sensei should be back in about 3-4 days so he'll be gone a week and as for our next bit of training, kenjutsu, chakra control and genjutsu, he arranged for someone to help us with that aspect" Mimori answered easily.
Off to the side the Hyuga scoffed under his breath "Not that it will matter you are still weak and will never amount to anything" Neji snorted derisively, earning several glares, thankfully Gai chose that moment to dismiss them.
Just like that they were headed home separately of one another, Sakura sighed softly tilting her head back to stare at the sky, "You seem very depressed forehead, why" and of course she just had to be interrupted, by one of the people who have tried to drive her insane since coming to Leaf.
Sakura shot the girl a look before shrugging, a blonde brow twitched in aggravation "Hey the least you could is answer me, since I went out of my way to ask you what's wrong" the blonde snapped not liking that she was being ignored.
With a long suffering sigh, she decided to indulge the girl "Because Yamanaka-san I haven't heard from any of my friends back in Mist for over three weeks that's why" the pinkette stated clearly frustrated over that fact.
A little surprised at that the blonde sped up to walk even with the girl she saw as a rival for Sasuke's affections "Did you think that maybe they just got tired of you and moved on" Ino smirked trying to upset the girl.
Earning a glare "Or maybe their just busy Yamanaka-san if all your going to do is insult me then go away until you learn some freaking manners on how to be polite" Sakura spat walking a little faster to get away from the annoying girl.
Until she reached her house and disappeared within, it was empty just as she'd thought it would be and quickly hurried to her room to flop down on her bed and try not to break down in hysterics, were they really busy or had they actually gotten tired of her.
Thoughts like that bouncing around in her mind she slowly drifted off into a fitful sleep, a nightmare played before her, of the thoughts she'd had while going to sleep and just before it was to get really bad.
She jerked awake with a scream "WHOA SAKURA WHAT'S WRONG" Asagao burst his way into her room looking around for the culprit that made his sister scream like that, panic in his dark blue eyes and brandishing a kunai.
Immediately Sakura shook her head "Only a nightmare Asagao, I'm fine" the rosette croaked out, throat hurting a little from that scream, Asagao lowered his weapon then stowed it away before stepping closer.
"Relax Sakura don't let it get to you, I'm sure there is a logical explanation as to why they haven't responded just believe in them okay" the fuscia haired boy sat then pulled his distraught sister into a hug, cursing those boys from Mist for making her so upset that she could barely function.
Eventually she did calm down enough to properly focus her chakra to heal her throat before flopping back on her bed with a groan, until she glanced over at her bedside and noted the time "Why didn't you tell me it was almost dinner" Sakura huffed.
Her brother chuckled in response "Cause you've been working like crazy so I figured a few hours of sleep wouldn't hurt anyone" Asagao shrugged casually rising from her bed and disappearing out the door, a few minutes later she joined him.
Only to find they weren't alone in the house "That was some scream Sakura-chan, are you okay" the rest of Team Seven were seated around the kitchen table, even Shisui who was their sensei and she had the decency to blush.
"Was it a nightmare of Kessho's and Zabuza's deaths" Sasuke prodded carefully knowing that it had to still be bugging some of them, thankfully though Sakura shook her head and it was then the reason hit him.
When the knucklehead on his team burst out "Is it about your friends back in Mist come on Sakura-chan have faith okay I'm sure whatever is keeping them from writing is very important" Naruto assured having gained a keen sense for when his friends were upset.
And the reasons for them being upset, Sakura smiled lightly "Right guess I'll get started on dinner, don't expect it to be to fancy though" the rosette laughed padding forward to pull out ingredients then set to work.
The males sitting around the table just watching her "Wow this looks delicious, maybe you can help Auntie Mikoto with the cookout for the Uchiha Clan next week" the exuberant Uchiha clapped eyeing the delicious food that had been set before him.
It was just as good as it looked to when he did take a bite "He's mostly teasing, even if I was going to invite you all to the cookout" the second Uchiha heir grumbled sulking a little even if this was one of the best meals he'd ever had.
"Really Teme that would be so awesome and I think it would be great if Sakura-chan helped, Mrs. Uchiha is a good cook, but Sakura-chan is really good to, especially at outdoors cooking" the knucklehead blonde grinned chattering a mile a minute.
Being careful to swallow his food before speaking, Asagao shook his head in amusement at his teammates antics "It would take your mind off things Sakura, cooking makes you relax for some reason" the fuscia haired preteen nodded in acceptance.
Liking the idea of having her help cook for the cookout, she blushed but ate the rest of dinner in silence where she didn't have to lift a finger, the boys cleaned up and it was nice not having to do all the work for once.
A couple hours later the rest of Team Seven left heading their separate ways, the Haruno Twins took showers then flopped down in their beds to get some shut eye, knowing it would be a long day when they woke up and wanted to get some proper rest.
~Three Days Later~
Practicing their swords swings, chakra control and genjutsu, Team Nine's Sensei finally returned from his almost week long mission, minus one day, Sakura straightened though feeling familiar chakra "Oi Sakura-chan what's got you hyped up all of a sudden" the younger Senju twin called.
Sensing that her teammate was no longer concentrating on their training to their temporary instructors amusement "Yes indeed Sakura-san, what's bothering you" Itachi inquired gently, having promised Asuma to help with their genjutsu training.
It was obvious the girl was fighting to keep still and not book it off the training grounds "Keep acting like that you'll put Naruto to shame" the older Senju twin laughed outright when Sakura fidgeted and glanced off into the distance again.
Before she finally gave up "Itachi-san I'm sorry I need to…er…I'm sorry" Sakura stuttered then vanished, Itachi blinked in surprise at that, then finally shrugged, directing the remaining two girls to follow him, they followed Sakura across the village.
"What do you think is going on with her, she was downright fidgety for some reason" Mimori frowned confused as they hurried after the girl, never had she seen Sakura act like that before and she was sure there was a reason for it.
Her sister shrugged "No idea but I'm sure we'll find out here in a few minutes Mimori" Mamori pointed out as they neared the general vicinity of the Village Gates, arriving just in time to see Sakura throw her arms around a pale blue haired purple eyed boy.
Then pull the older duo into a bone crushing hug as well "Shouldn't you be training right now Sakura" Asuma lifted his brows at the intriguing sight, the girl had come out of no where and now she was hugging the Mist Genin like her life depended on it.
Just like that she managed to pull herself away "I know bu..but it's just I've missed them so much, I'm sorry Asuma-sensei" the pinkette apologized looking ashamed of herself, she'd abandoned training for personal reasons and now she felt stupid.
With an expression like that he truly couldn't scold her "Friends I assume, should have known you originally came from Mist after all" the raven haired Jonin sighed, she'd probably been working hard like her teammates, so he could let her off the hook just this once.
"Gave us a right scare you did Sakura-chan" the older Senju twin laughed at her teammate who blushed but kept a firm hold of her best friend from the Hidden Mist Village, likewise he did the same clearly having missed her as well.
Much like their two other friends "You must be Suigetsu, Haku and Kimimaro, it's nice to meet you, we're the Senju twins, I'm Mimori, this is Mamori" the younger Senju twin introduced herself and her sister as well.
At the introductions "Got it in one, I'm Suigetsu Hozuki, Sakura's been my best friend since we were really little" Suigetsu grinned pleased to see her doing so well in Leaf and finally in person like he'd wanted since they'd all become genin in different villages.
"Haku Yuki and I know you must be upset with us, it's just Mizukage-sama sent us on a mission, to Wave, we'd only got back the day before Sarutobi-san arrived to escort us here" Haku explained, they'd read the various letters of course.
Sakura blushed even more at that "It's good to see her in high spirits again, I'll see you girls tomorrow for more genjutsu training unless you're going to switch up their training Asuma-san" the Uchiha Heir directed his gaze onto the Jonin.
Who shook his head then Itachi turned on his heel and vanished in a plume of smoke "Kimimaro Kaguya, it's nice to meet you" Kimimaro nodded his head at the other two girls, before directing his gaze onto his friend again.
"Okay you three before you can socialize, we have to meet Hokage-sama, then I'll release you for the day" Mangetsu clapped his hands knowing the three boys wanted to run off and hang out with Sakura right at that moment, but they had to attend to business first.
They all three groaned quietly but nodded their heads and waved "We'll see you in a bit Sakura-chan" the pale blue haired boy called following after the Jonin that had escorted them to Leaf in the first place.
Kimimaro and Haku nodded as well "Yes, we'll find you because we know your chakra very well still" the raven haired teen smiled kindly just happy to see her again, it had been agony going all these weeks without seeing her in person.
She waved watching them go "See you in a bit" the white haired teen nodded his head again then hurried after his teammates, not wanting to be left behind or have the meeting drag on because they were late.
Mangetsu shook his head in amusement "Thanks for returning Kubikiribocho by the way" the white haired adult ruffled her unbound hair then disappeared after the boys he'd been put in charge off, leaving the three girls alone.
Immediately afterwards the Senju twins bid their teammate farewell and headed off, Sakura blew out a breath and decided to wander around for a bit, anxious to spend time with her best friends from the Hidden Mist Village again.
Considering it had been over three months since she'd last seen them after all, "Oh what's this skipping on training, didn't think it was possible for you" Kiba's voice interrupted her deep thoughts just as she was thinking of heading for the Hokage Tower.
"Yeah Asuma-sensei came back from his mission, he went to escort a genin team here, genin that I know all to well" Sakura piped in, bouncing back to her old self as the depression lifted from her shoulders, they were really there and she could believe it now.
Kiba lifted a brow in surprise at that "Really now, are these the friends of yours that haven't been responding to your letters lately" the brunet heir narrowed his eyes, Sakura was becoming a really good friend after all so he was worried about her well-being.
Eagerly she nodded her head "Mhm they said they'd read all the letters but before they could respond since they'd been off on a mission, Asuma-sensei showed up to escort them so they came straight here after finishing up their mission" the pinkette explained.
"Well so long as they apologized and stuff you'll have to introduce me to them Sakura, anyway gotta go Ma's gonna have my hide if I don't hurry up with the shopping" Kiba waved earning a wave back from Sakura.
Who turned and headed straight for the Hokage Tower, partway there, Haku, Kimimaro and Suigetsu appeared before her, unable to help herself she hugged them again "Oh kami I've missed you guys so much I didn't think it was possible" Sakura felt the tears welling up.
Understanding in their gazes, they merely hugged her tighter "It's okay Sakura-chan you can cry, we won't blame you, especially all you've been through lately" Haku assured kindly, it was his kindness that broke the dam and the tears poured forth.
"There, there Sakura, we're here" Suigetsu grimaced rubbing her back as she buried her face in his shoulder, having an inch over him still, though that didn't really matter, he knew she'd be like this when they arrived in the village.
Haku winced hearing the sobs until they started dying down six minutes later "Feel better after that do you Sakura" Kimimaro asked as she dried her eyes, pulling away from Suigetsu simultaneously at the same time.
"Geez I didn't think you guys would go and make her cry once I set you loose" Mangetsu frowned appearing in their midst in the next moment seeing the blood shot eyes and red face indicating a crying spell.
His accusation was met with glares "No, no it's okay Mangetsu-san, I'm okay" the pinkette shook her head still reeling a little but overall finally calming down, her friends were there that's all that mattered to her right now.
"If your wondering what we're doing here, Mizukage-sama said it was to commemorate the treaty, by coming here and taking on missions in the village we're allies with" the pale blue haired boy offered an explanation she was no doubt wondering.
Viridian orbs widened in response "And it's been decided that we'll be working along Team Nine and it's sensei, whoever they are" the raven haired teen sulked a little, having wanted to get stuck with Sakura and her team.
Reminding her that she'd never told them and so she held back the laughter as even Kimimaro seemed to sulk "But we'll do our duties to the best of our abilities no matter who they are" the snowy haired teen sighed.
She bit the inside of her cheek to keep from laughing still as Mangetsu rolled his eyes at their melodramatic antics "Enough about that, we start tomorrow, I'm going to go find a hotel" the white haired adult snorted walking off.
At his departure she could no longer hold the laughter in, just burst out cackling like a hyena, earning weirded out stares until she managed to calm down and explain why she was laughing "My team is Team Nine and Asuma-sensei is our sensei" Sakura answered.
Their expressions brightened "So we would like to meet your brother is that possible" Kimimaro jumped in first, becoming as impatient as he was known to be, but would hardly admit unless he felt like it.
Sakura tilted her head to the side, glancing at the sun before nodding, turned on her heel and led the way to her house "I take it by that expression he's done with training and missions for the day right" Haku chuckled lightly earning another nod from his only female friend so far.
"Nothing like Mizukage-sama's old house for sure, but it's very nice, ooh will we get to meet your parents to Sakura-chan" Suigetsu bounced as they arrived before a very civilian house and she opened the door letting them in.
His question earned a blink but Sakura wasn't the one to answer "Unfortunately you'll have to wait awhile for that as their off on their sales trip, since you're wearing Mist Headbands your Sakura's friends from Mist right, Asagao Haruno" Asagao explained.
"Bummer really wanted to meet them, I guess you'll do for now, it's really nice to meet you Asagao, Sakura's told us a lot about you in her letters" the pale blue haired preteen chattered a mile a minute in excitement.
Because above all he was truly happy his crush was doing so well in her birth village, Asagao blinked in surprise "Yeah really reminds you of Naruto huh" the rosette girl laughed softly keeping attached to her best friend.
Asagao smiled at that, through thick and thin, nothing would be able to tear those two apart, even if he wanted to complain that it was a boy who was her best friend, he didn't dare "Yes and it's really nice to meet you to Suigetsu, Kimimaro, Haku" the fuscia haired boy nodded.
Earning nods from the two older boys as well "Something smells burnt is everything okay Asagao-san" the raven haired teenager sniffed the air smelling that smell that's associated with burnt food or well anything really.
In response the boy flushed and they all followed him into the kitchen where he was horrendously trying to cook, Sakura grinned and took over while the males seated themselves around the table "Guess Mizukage-sama's not the only one that knows how to cook huh" the white haired teenager said.
A long suffering sigh filled the air "I'd hoped to make lunch for Sakura and myself cause she's always cooking when Mom and Dad are gone, to cheer her up you know" Asagao huffed, guess he still had a long ways to go before he could cook a decent meal.
"Don't worry about it Asagao, you'll get it down eventually for now eat up" Sakura placed the lunch she'd salvaged before them on the table and it was quickly devoured, though when she stood, her best friend stopped her.
Shaking his head "Cook doesn't wash dishes, so let us handle it okay Sakura-chan" Suigetsu announced sternly wanting to prove that he'd changed, that he'd matured since the last time they'd seen each other when she'd left for the village he was currently staying in.
With that the dishes were collected and placed in the sink to be washed, dried and put away "Very mature of you Suigetsu, let us help as well" Haku was the next to hop up not wanting to leave the cleanup all to his teammate.
Their remaining teammate smiled and decided to join in as well "There all done, washed, dried and put away" Kimimaro nodded in satisfaction, pleased that the kitchen was put back to rights now and they could just sit around chatting.
"So is it true that the curriculum back in Mist is really tough, not that I don't believe Sakura, it's just it couldn't have been as hard as she's been telling everyone right" the fuscia haired preteen boy questioned suddenly.
Haku immediately glared at the table "Ridiculously tough, especially towards the end, where it felt like the sensei was trying to kill us" the raven haired teen grumbled darkly, he still thought that man needed to be evaluated, even if he was no longer in the academy.
Sakura giggled at her brothers expression "Guess it's understandable if you've never been through it, but yeah it was really hard" Suigetsu nodded face grim, he'd feared the results of his written graduation exam more than the physical portion of the exam after all.
Asagao sighed "From what we've heard you guys had it rather easy" Kimimaro reminded earning a couple of nods, though Sakura's was grudging, she would have preferred no doubt to have a harder challenge that way it would have felt worth it to graduate.
Realizing that his sister really had, had a rough academy curriculum up until she transferred Asagao paled "Yeah now you get it, only been trying to explain since I got here" the pinkette snorted catching sight of his expression.
Causing the others to laugh at his expense, feeling silly he flashed them a sheepish look before yawning, Sakura lifted a brow "Oh don't worry, we're a little exhausted from the trip over ourselves" the snowy haired teenager offered with a smile.
"So what exactly are your teams training sessions like Sakura-chan" the pale blue haired preteen burst out eager to know what they'd be doing for the duration of their time in the Hidden Leaf Village, to commemorate the treaty.
Immediately his friends brother sat up straight and sulked "Lots of thing isn't that right Sakura, kenjutsu, taijutsu, genjutsu, ninjutsu, chakra control, evasion, stamina, strength, speed and tons of D Rank missions" Asagao snorted with a huff.
Meanwhile Shisui was mean, Sakura burst out laughing "That's cause we know what direction we want to take our team Asagao so Asuma-sensei is training us accordingly" Sakura tsked with a smile as she stood stretching.
Feeling like she was on cloud nine, she had her best friends here in the Leaf Village, life couldn't get any better than that "What do you mean you know what direction you want to take your team" Haku creased his brow in confusion.
While the last surviving Kaguya cringed "A medic/seduction based team isn't that right, I remember you telling me once in one of your letters" Kimimaro spoke up, immediately Asagao looked like he'd eaten something sour.
And the two other boys frowned deeply "But Sakura-chan how could you want to be like that" Suigetsu looked torn, he wanted to support her, he really did, but that clashed with his crush on her, he didn't want any other guy touching her.
Sakura smiled fondly, understanding their feelings "Suigetsu-kun, you know that I know that life doesn't go the way we want, on a mission if my teammates and I were captured, flirting our way out might be the only way to save ourselves" the rosette reminded gently.
Suigetsu sulked forcing himself to understand her reasoning for wanting to become a medic/seduction based team "Alright Sakura-chan, but I'll never like it probably" the pale blue haired preteen huffed lightly.
Earning a bright smile just as knocking sounded on the door "I'll get it" the fuscia haired boy popped up from his chair, then vanished down the hall to the foyer, when he returned it was with yet another Mist Shinobi.
Carrying a familiar sword on his back "Found a good hotel, two to a room, looks like you kids are having fun" the white haired adult commented setting Kubikiribocho down before taking a seat at the table intent on relaxing like the kids were.
"Yeah we were only talking about the crazy stuff we'll be having to do since Sakura-chan has to be an overachiever" the raven haired teenager chuckled in a dry tone, Sakura rolled her eyes at the ensuing laughter.
Before huffing at them all "Now, now, no need to get cross, we're truly happy to be here Sakura" the white haired teenager assured and once again her smile won out, it was no wonder Suigetsu liked the girl so much, she truly was pretty.
For the rest of the afternoon the lot of them sat around the kitchen table chattering about one thing or another, catching each other up on the happenings of their lives in separate villages, the things that didn't make it into the letters.
Until it was dinner time, when Sakura hopped up so did Suigetsu "Let me help okay Sakura-chan, it's the least I can do" Suigetsu offered wanting to make it up to her for not having been able to respond to any of her letters.
Her expression said it all "Of course Suigetsu, I know you're a good cook to" Sakura giggled lightly pulling out everything needed and together they set to work making dinner for them and the others that were in the kitchen.
The delicious smell of food wafted through the air, enticing several stomachs to growl in response before everything was perfectly cooked and piled onto plates "Exactly what we needed, thanks Sakura" Mangetsu ruffled her hair then dug in politely.
"Yeesh be careful Sakura, you might have another Choji on your hands" Asagao laughed only to wince as an elbow was jabbed carefully into his side, her eyes were narrowed and he sighed "I didn't mean it like that Sakura" he sulked.
Sakura rolled her eyes, honestly that poor boy didn't need anyone making fun of him "Can we ask who this Choji person is" Haku asked curiously, he didn't remember if she'd told him in any of the letters, perhaps he'll have to go back and re-read them much more thoroughly.
Once they got to the hotel anyway, Sakura opened her mouth to explain when once again the last Kaguya in existence spoke up "He's the one that has poor confidence in himself for being a little overweight right" Kimimaro asked.
Earning a nod "Choji is constantly being made fun of and I've seen what it does to his confidence, so I resolved myself to help him" the pinkette announced determinedly, reminding herself to go see the Akimichi Heir when she wasn't ridiculously busy with training.
"Help him how, you aren't dating him are you Sakura-chan" the pale blue haired preteen frowned deeply, fearful of the answer he might receive, he hoped he still had a chance with the girl he was crushing bad on.
She didn't even get to answer this time "Oh they went on a couple dates, but it was more like hanging out with a friend than anything else, it really boosted his confidence, though he often comes to steal her to trade recipes with his Mom" the pink haired preteen boy said.
Feeling immensely better about that, Suigetsu relaxed, of course he knew she had some pretty high morals and any one that was in need of help she would help, with no ulterior motives, that's just who Sakura was and he wouldn't have her any other way.
Mangetsu bit the inside of his cheek to keep from laughing but cleared his throat "Thank you for dinner Sakura, it was nice, so we'll just show up here at 7, maybe have breakfast with you and then get to work right" the white haired adult stood.
Polishing of his plate and wanting to be polite, washed his dishes, then neatly set them on a towel to dry, Sakura nodded hugging her three friends again "It was nice to spend nearly this whole day with you Sakura" the raven haired teenager admitted.
As he was tugging on his sandals after cleaning up after himself "Make sure you get plenty of sleep alright" the snowy haired teenager waved as he was the last one out the door, getting matching nods from the Haruno twins.
Before they turned and cleaned up the rest of the kitchen, took stock of what they had in the cabinets, then locked up for the night, taking showers and going to bed in their individual rooms, where their sleep was undisturbed for once.
The next morning the Haruno siblings were woken up by a loud knocking on the front door, Sakura flew up out of her bed at a quick glance at her clock, and hurriedly went to answer, knowing exactly who it was.
"Good Morning, Mangetsu-san, Kimimaro-kun, Haku-kun, Suigetsu-kun" Sakura greeted brightly looking as if she'd quite literally just woken up, which she had, but she'd soon be wide awake and cooking for her best friends in the entire world and brother.
It was hard not to laugh at her bleary eyes and sleep mused hair but the four males managed it as they didn't want to hurt her feelings as they were the ones who'd showed up a little earlier than they'd stated they would be.
"Morning Sakura-chan, you jut go get dressed okay, maybe the four of us can get started making breakfast" Suigetsu offered wanting to show off his own skills to impress the girl he liked, Sakura nodded mutely then turned and disappeared down the hallway.
Leaving them to take off their shoes and familiarize themselves with the kitchen layout "Don't look at me Otouto, your the one that likes her" Mangetsu snorted when his little brother shot him stern glance especially when he sat at the table, resting his head in his hand.
Suigetsu glowered before sighing, deciding to focus on making the best breakfast he could for his crush "Ooh you remember the omelette that Mizukage-sama use to make, Sakura-chan loved it, so lets make one of those for old times sake" Haku suggested.
"Right, shouldn't be to hard, we've all gotten better at cooking recently" Kimimaro nodded and with that the three of them set to work, the first one to appear in the kitchen was the younger twin since Sakura was born first.
He paused mid-yawn then shrugged and plopped down in an empty chair "Bit early for even Sakura, she's putting her hair up that's why she's not out here yet" Asagao explained his sister's absence, knowing her habits very well.
Thankfully he wasn't the only one as the four males before him nodded in understanding, ten minutes later Sakura finally appeared, dressed in her usual training gear, mesh underclothes with a red tank top and black shorts.
Knowing instinctively that today would be harsh as the sun bore down on them "The hell are you wearing" the fuscia haired boy groaned, why did his sister have to wear such revealing clothing, it was maddening.
Mangetsu covered his mouth to keep from laughing at the boys misfortune of having Sakura as his sister "My training gear Asagao, you know I always wear this cause it gets hot while training" the pinkette snipped out in a sharp tone.
"You haven't changed a bit I see" the white haired adult chuckled, glad that she hadn't, it would have been a pain to explain to Mei how her niece was doing when they did go back to the Hidden Mist Village once their mission was complete.
It was the boys second C Rank Mission after all "Are we really gonna get stuck doing D Rank Missions Sakura" the pale blue haired preteen frowned as he remembered something from yesterday and looked pleading at his friend.
Who unfortunately nodded "Probably for the best, we need to ease ourselves into this whole mission before we get saddled with C Ranks" the raven haired teenager nodded in acceptance, as much complaining as they'd done, C Ranks were the devil in disguise.
Sakura seemed to agree with him on that matter as well before she scowled in while Asagao grimaced "Still thinking about your last mission huh" the snowy haired teenager guessed seeing the sadness deep within her emerald irises.
Viridian orbs darkened just a bit before lightening up as breakfast was deemed ready and the lot of them settled at the table to eat "Well better get going so Shisui-sensei can beat us up again" Asagao sighed polishing off his breakfast.
Then he cleaned up after himself and disappeared out the door, Sakura burst out laughing once he was gone, finishing up herself then washed her dishes, making a grocery list "Right guess we should go to" Mangetsu rose to his feet.
Washing his dishes as well being polite then heaved Kubikiribocho onto his back with ease, Sakura nodded and slid her feet into her green sandals "Can't wait today should be interesting" Haku admitted doing the same.
Patiently waiting for the others to finish up, then together as a group they headed out the door "So where exactly is your team training grounds" Kimimaro questioned as they walked in what seemed to be a random direction
"Training grounds Nine, Kimimaro-san didn't think we'd see you so early in the morning did you eat breakfast with Sakura-chan" Mamori greeted as she and her own twin sister appeared on the same path they were walking.
Kimimaro nodded, though he still know exactly where that specific training grounds were "Mostly, but we've been assigned to do missions alongside Team Nine, your team, Mamori-chan" Suigetsu explained, looking around carefully.
Mamori instantly understood and was happy for Sakura "And train with us" Sakura snickered knowing the boys were going to be very shocked, their training was like hell on earth sometimes, especially now that Itachi was teaching them genjutsu.
Which would probably be more intense since the three of them had skipped out on training half the day yesterday and they would have to make it up to the teenager, Mamori covered her mouth "Oh boy you guys are in for a long haul if that's the case" Mimori snickered herself.
Earning confused glances from the guys just as they arrived on their usual training grounds ten minutes before their standard training time, only two people were there and neither of them was their official team sensei.
"Namiashi-san what are you doing here so early in the morning" the rosette looked wary at the man's presence on her teams training grounds, he chuckled in response and gave her a little wave as he walked over to them with the other male on his heels.
And then he opened his mouth "Hello girls, Asuma has requested my help again, once you get done with Uchiha's genjutsu training, my job will be to distract you from your chakra control exercise whatever it may be" Raido laughed.
Getting glares "Do try not to go overboard Namiashi-san, as we have guests with us today and just remember we will get you back for last time" the younger blonde twin huffed unhappily remembering this man's stunt in helping their sensei test their skills.
Raido simply looked amused and ruffled the girls hair "Now, now what's with the hostility girls" the white haired adult that was the Jonin of the Mist Genin raised a brow curious as to why they seemed to be so wary about this particular person.
"Ah special Jonin Raido Namiashi, helped Asuma test their skills on the second day of their genin promotion, needless to say their a little sore about that and vowed to prank me" the brunet chuckled again.
Sakura nodded seriously and he would never see it coming, she was sure of it "Yeah cause you guys were mean" the older Senju twin scowled, that had been the worst day of her entire life, she couldn't think of anything else that topped it after all.
"Geez just what exactly did your sensei do to test you three anyway" the pale blue haired preteen asked interested in the answer, he'd never seen his friend so wary around a person before and it was slightly confusing.
Just then they were joined by Team Nine's Sensei "Quite a bit actually, genjutsu, taijutsu, a bit of kenjutsu, ninjutsu, evasion, just to see where their limits were and how I could help them improve, now are you all ready for today's training" Asuma greeted.
Answering the preteen's question at the same time as he appeared in a swirl of leaves, the girls expressions brightened at the sight of him, proving they had missed him during his near two week absence from their training sessions.
They all nodded eagerly "Shall we get your genjutsu training underway" the silent Itachi finally spoke up announcing his presence, the girls were use to him, but the Mist Genin definitely weren't as they jumped.
Gazes shooting to him immediately "Genjutsu training, what do you mean by that exactly Uchiha-san" the white haired teenager inquired warily, having a bad feeling about it and barely remembering that his last name was Uchiha from the statement earlier.
Itachi raised a brow in response looking intimidating "Exactly what I meant, you six will go into one of my genjutsu's, see it through to the end and then replicate it on me" the Uchiha Heir stated simply causing the boys to gape.
"B..But tha..that's just crazy" the raven haired teenager felt nervousness well up on him, getting the feeling that this training was going to mentally exhausting for them as the Uchiha didn't give them any more time and sped through hand signs.
Enhancing the genjutsu with his sharingan as he cast it over them, all six genin slid to the ground "Making up for yesterday aren't you" the raven haired Jonin in charge of Team Nine chuckled watching them carefully.
He didn't want his genin hurt or the Mist Genin after all so he'd be ready for anything, Itachi nodded silently, quirking his lips up just a little before leaning back against a tree, waiting patiently, knowing it would take awhile for this particular genjutsu to run it's full course.
Of course as he'd come to expect from her, fifteen minutes later, Sakura's chakra flared and she broke free of his sharingan induced genjutsu, she sat up, sweating and pale, green eyes dull, and breathing heavily, mind reeling from the illusion.
But she didn't puke to his surprise, she sat there for a few minutes trying to ground herself "Okay Itachi-san my turn right since the others are still in" Sakura rose carefully to her feet once the worst of the jutsu was over and she no longer felt like puking.
He nodded "Yes, the hand signs do you need me to show them to you again" Itachi asked lightly but the girl shook her head, having already memorized the hand signs, she was going to be quite good with genjutsu if she expanded that repertoire.
Then the genjutsu was cast on him, not sharingan induced sure, but the same illusion none the less, it wasn't as slow as the one he'd cast on the genin and eight minutes later he broke free of the jutsu with ease.
Sakura flashed him a smile then plopped down, pulling out a canteen of water to wait for the others, Haku was next "Kami that was bloody awful and now I have recreate it, ugh Uchiha-san could you show me the hand signs again" Haku grimaced.
Looking pale, well paler than normal, Itachi did as requested and went through the genjutsu for the second time, there were bits and pieces missing but overall the teenager got the gist of the illusion, he nodded and Haku sat down a little forcefully next to his friend.
Frowning deeply in consideration, knowing he messed up a bit "Oooh my head hurts that's something awful Itachi-san, mean why are you guys mean to us" Mimori was next and she immediately held her head as it pounded.
The other Jonin chuckled "Now, now if we were nice you wouldn't improve Mimori" Asuma reminded carefully, earning a pout but Mimori dutifully cast the genjutsu on Itachi, who took it in stride until he broke free yet again.
Mamori was next after her sister "Definitely not my strong suit I would say, guess that's the point of this training" Mamori winced trying not to toss her cookies right there on the training grounds, it took a few minutes before she was able to stand without practically falling over.
And once again Itachi was cast in the illusion who went through it again, "So uncool that's one heck of a nasty genjutsu you got there" Suigetsu sat up, head reeling but with a stronger stomach than most genin.
Of course since they'd come from the Mist Village, they had to be a lot tougher than one would expect "Is the genjutsu over" Kimimaro was the last to wake from the jutsu cast on them and re-cast it on the original user.
Now all of them were awake once more "Yeesh you kids need to get a backbone sometime" Raido snorted, earning glares from at least three of the genin, he knew they had one, but the display just now had been pathetic.
Itachi shook his head chuckling under his breath "Okay was that all there was to the genjutsu training" Mangetsu raised a brow in confusion, this was the oddest training he'd ever bore witness to, those poor girls, even though he wouldn't dare say that out loud.
"Yes, good work you six, you did well, though before this week is over I expect no missing pieces to the genjutsu, now I'll turn you over to your sensei" the ebony haired seventeen year old praised lightly then in a burst of crows was gone.
Asuma chuckled again "Right now it's time for you chakra control exercise, as you boys are new, your chakra control exercise will be a bit different, you girls will walk on water, not on your feet but your hands, boys on your feet" the raven haired Jonin explained.
Earning horrified looks "We're supposed to focus chakra in our hands and walk on water that way, while Namiashi-san tries to distract us" the older Senju twin gaped, not liking how this morning was turning out so far.
"Hold up we don't even know how to walk on water yet" the white haired teenager admitted, sending a little glare at his sensei for not warning them or preparing them for the training that was going to be like hell.
When Asuma glanced his way the others nodded "Unfortunately he's telling the truth, so tree climbing exercise for them until they learn" the white haired adult took over, Asuma nodded in understanding.
But still directed his own students over to the small lake that was on their training grounds "Hope you girls are ready" the brunet with a scar smirked already holding several shuriken in his hands, though he wouldn't seriously harm the girls.
He was going to definitely have fun with this exercise "Just remember, payback Namiashi-san" the younger Senju twin huffed yet again but did as instructed, performing a hand stand alongside her teammates.
Then carefully with slight difficulty focused chakra into her hands until they glowed blue, then started forward out onto the water on her hands "Crazy just crazy" th raven haired teenager shook his head feeling for his friend.
Sweat was already beading on her forehead as she concentrated on walking on water, on her hands, it couldn't be easy even with her chakra control "Lets just get this chakra control training over with" the pale blue haired preteen sighed.
Today was turning out to be the craziest day of his life as the sound of shuriken flew through the air and somebody fell into the lake with a loud splash, the younger Senju twin was the victim as she came up spluttering in indignation.
"Don't Mimori-chan, the point of this exercise to learn how to focus even with distractions" the pinkette reminded sternly, Mimori grumbled and heaved herself onto dry land to try again already knowing the drill for falling in after all.
For an hour that training lasted with various splashes filling the air from the girls as they worked to improve their chakra control until finally Asuma called it, Raido waved and vanished in a plume of smoke getting clear of the training grounds.
With that they all gathered round once again and set to work on improving their kenjutsu, by pairing up against one another and sparring with swords only "And they do this kind of training every day" Mangetsu questioned the Leaf Jonin.
Who shook his head "No, this is what I have them working on this week, next week I'll probably have them work on evasion and ninjutsu with only ten D Rank missions strewn throughout the week" Asuma admitted.
Mangetsu sweat dropped before focusing his gaze on the genin as they trained to hone their skills with a sword "My arms hurt" Mamori pouted feeling her sore muscles, of course after balancing her body weight on her arms for an hour of course they'd hurt.
"No worries after this we'll have a break to rest before doing missions right Asuma-sensei" Sakura, probably the only one not really affected, looked hopefully at her sensei, who nodded with another chuckle.
The boys were relieved about that "Thank kami cause my body hurts like hell and I feel like I want to take a nap I'm so exhausted" Suigetsu complained lightly, now he knew why the girls said they were in for a long haul.
Their training was literally like the class back in the Hidden Mist Village, basically hell and before they knew it, it was finally lunch time "Feel like going to sleep myself now" Haku grimaced, feeling sore like he hadn't since they'd graduated.
"At least we'll improve before we have to go back" Kimimaro sheathed his sword, the very same one Sakura had sent him as a souvenir, it was his favorite weapon to use, beside his kekkeigenkai, but he was very careful with his special ability.
With that they were dismissed and the lot of them scrambled eager to shower and eat and rest their sore muscles, to Kimimaro, Haku and Suigetsu's surprise, Mamori and Mimori followed them back to Sakura's house, where they showered in Sakura's bathroom before eating lunch there as well.
And then it was time for their D Rank Missions, just a couple to ease them into the whole taking on missions in another village before they were released for the rest of the day "Don't know how you do it Sakura-chan" the pale blue haired preteen said.
On their way back to her house for dinner "You get use to it, plus Asuma-sensei's pretty cool, he only wants to help us improve" the pinkette admitted gently, feeling sore, it was a good feeling to her as it wasn't to intense.
Probably the evasion training they'd undergo next week on Monday since there was only a couple days left on their genjutsu/chakra control/kenjutsu training, would be like hell on them but it would improve their dodging capabilities for sure.
"So right from the get go you've been training like that" the white haired adult grimaced and cringed when the girl nodded with a bright smile, he couldn't really fault her though, she'd always been hardcore on training.
Maybe Asuma had been the right Jonin for the girl, but for his students however, not so much, they'd stick with the training through just to say they'd managed it anyway "Do you think we'll do more missions tomorrow" the raven haired teenager asked.
But Sakura shrugged unsure of the answer herself as Asuma had them go on missions sporadically, he could also claim tomorrow as a personal mission day as well "Right" the snowy haired teenager sighed as they all headed into the house for supper.
Asagao was already there "Must have been bad if you guys look like that" Asagao grimaced eyeing the his sister's friends, all of whom looked worn out after a long day of training and a few D Rank Missions.
They all nodded and sat down in empty chairs then ate when supper was done before cleaning up after themselves, once they were done with that they waved goodnight and headed off to their hotel leaving the Haruno Twins alone to lock up and go to bed themselves.