Chapter 7: Mako's Special Training
It's been over two weeks since Team Eleven had returned from their mission to Yugakure to track down the mysterious killer who has been murdering the people of the village. Since they were dealing with an A-rank opponent and defeating them Hiruzen had given them the respective pay for an A-ranked mission and had allowed the team to rest up as long as they needed to.
As the sun rises it's bright light shines through the window in Kurotsuchi's room, the light hits her in the face automatically waking her up.
Growling in annoyance, Kurotsuchi gets off her bed and walks over to her dresser. Taking out a fresh shirt, mesh leggings and panties she grabs her towel and heads off to the shower. Exiting the shower Kurotsuchi hears a knock at the door.
''I wonder who that is.'' She thought as she walks over and opens to door to find no one there. Grumbling in annoyance she turns to head back into her apartment but spots a sticky note on her door. Taking it off she reads it.
Meet me at the third training field at 9:30, eat a good breakfast and come dressed in your usual kunoichi attire. We're gonna have some fun today!
-Mako sensei
''Huh, I wonder what sensei wants with us so early in the morning.'' Kurotsuchi then heads back into her apartment to prepare a breakfast before heading out.
-Third Training Field-
After eating her breakfast Kurotsuchi had now arrived at said training field and spotted Naruto and Genma sitting on a large boulder near the trees.
''Hi guys.'' She greeted with a yawn.
''Good morning Kurotsuchi.'' An obviously tired Naruto greeted back.
''Yeah, morning.'' Genma said using his senbon to pick his teeth.
Checking her little watch Kurotsuchi saw that it was only 9:01. Since Mako probably wouldn't be there until 9:30 the three of them decided to take a little nap at the base of the boulder except Naruto who was sleeping upside down from the tree branch above the boulder.
After almost a half hour of napping a raven was seen landing next to Naruto's feet as he hung upside down from the branch. The raven hops it's way to his foot and begin pecking it rather hard. Hard enough for it to hurt and wake the blonde teenager up.
''Gah!'' Naruto cried out as he lands on top of Kurotsuchi.
''Ow!" Kurotsuchi yelled out.
''Ugh, my head, my feet..'' Naruto lifted his head up and in front of his face was Kurotsuchi. The two teens were mere inches apart and were left blushing messes. The position they were in wasn't doing the situation any justice either. It was the missionary position.
The two teens laid there until a figure appeared behind them via a flock of ravens.
''Aw, look at you two!" The revealed Mako said in a teasing voice.
Naruto was about to say something when suddenly Kurotsuchi's face went completely red and she proceeded to push him off her. Getting up she dusts herself off and helps Naruto up.
''Nothing was going on Mako sensei!" Kurotsuchi protested.
''I beg to differ.'' Genma said as he walked up having seen the whole scene.
''Yeah, whatever you say kiddos.'' Mako said before taking out a small notebook.
''So..what did you want to see us for this morning Mako sensei?'' Naruto asked.
''Well, we've literally been resting for a week and since we'll have a few more days until our next mission I've decided to give you three a bit of training like a sensei should be doing.'' Mako said with a sickeningly sweet smile plastering her face.
The three Genin were excited hearing this.
''Oh! What kind of training sensei?'' Naruto questioned.
''First is something simple and I should've covered this with you before too. I'm going to see what your chakra affinities are.'' Mako explained.
''But sensei, I already know mine's. I have water, earth and my lava kekkei genkai.'' Kurotsuchi said.
''And I have wind and fire.'' Genma added.
Mako, Kurotsuchi and Genma then turn to face Naruto with questioning looks.
''And what about you Naruto?'' Mako asked with a raised eyebrow.
''Oh...um...I...I don't know.'' Naruto said looking disappointed.
''It's not a problem Naruto. Here, I have these to help you.'' Mako reached into her back pocket and took out several pieces of paper and handed it to Naruto.
''What are these papers for sensei?'' Naruto asked confused.
''I know what those are, those papers are designed to be infused with your chakra and it can literally tell you what affinities you have.'' Kurotsuchi explained.
''That's so cool!" Naruto exclaimed in excitement taking the small stack of papers from Mako.
''So...what do I do?''
''Kurotsuchi could you explain?'' Mako said.
''Alright Naruto listen carefully okay because I'm not going to repeat myself.'' Kurotsuchi said in a teacher voice.
''Fine. You have my full attention.'' Naruto said.
''Good boy. Now listen, as Mako sensei said these papers are designed to be infused with your chakra and it will let you know what chakra affinity you have. You understand the concept of said subject right?''
''Um, I think I do. It's like what element you're able to use right?'' Naruto answered.
''That's right. For example I can use water style, earth and lava easily because I have affinities for those. For other elements like wind, fire and lightning it's going to be hard because I don't have affinities for those. Genma can use fire and wind jutsu rather easily while Mako sensei..um..what can you use sensei?'' Kurotsuchi asked turning to face the Jonin.
''I can use all five elements.'' Mako said with a smirk.
''WHAT?!'' The three Genin screamed in pure shock.
''How?! How can you use all the elements?!" Genma asked.
''Yeah! How?!'' Naruto quipped.
''Hey, settle down you guys. Let me explain real quick. Now Naruto, you heard Kurotsuchi say she can use lava release right?'' Mako asked earning a nod from said Genin. ''Do you know why?''
''Oh! Is it because she has a kekkei genkai or whatever?'' Naruto said.
''That's right, have you heard of dojutsu?''
''A what?" Naruto asked.
''A dojutsu, it's kind of like a kekkei genkai but with your eye. Dojutsu are special ninja abilities. Do you guys remember how I freed you from Jin-e's shin no ippo jutsu?'' Mako asked earning nods from the three. ''Look at this.''
Mako then closes her eyes for a second and when she opened them her usual onyx eyes were replaced with crimson red ones.
''Oh! I caught a glimpse of those during the fight. That's cool!" Naruto exclaimed.
''You're damn right it's cool.'' Mako said before deactivating her sharingan. ''I have a kekkei genkai that's unique among members of the Uchiha clan and it's the sharingan eye.''
''I've heard of that word somewhere before..'' Kurotsuchi said scratching her chin.
''Getting a little off topic there sensei, weren't we focusing on the elemental jutsus?'' Genma spoke up.
''Oh right, as Kurotsuchi said her kekkei genkai is the ability to use lava release.'' Mako explained.
''By the way Naruto kekkei genkai is a bloodline trait meaning you can't learn it or copy it.'' Kurotsuchi lectured.
''That's right Naruto, Kurotsuchi could you show off some of your lava release techniques for us?'' Mako asked.
''Okay sensei.'' Kurotsuchi then performed a series of hand seals and takes a big breath in. ''Lava release: Quicklime Congealing Technique!" Kurotsuchi then fires out the sticky substance from her mouth and the quicklime quickly envelops several trees in the woodline.
''I've seen that technique being used when we were fighting Jin-e, so no one can learn this? Only you can perform it Kurotsuchi?'' Naruto asked as he jots this information down in a notebook he got from who knows where.
''Yep, I'm such a badass.'' Gloated the Iwa teen.
''Not even! I'm more badass than you!'' Naruto pointed at Kurotsuchi accusingly.
''No I'm more badass!'' Kurotsuchi shot back.
''Are not!''
''Are to!''
''Are not!''
''Are to!''
''Are not!''
Genma and Mako just watched the exchange with deadpan expressions, everytime Naruto would say 'are not' they would look at him, with Kurotsuchi when she spoke they would turn and face her.
''Are to!''
''Are not!''
Mako is then seen eating a rice ball enjoying the little show while Genma just played around with the senbon in his mouth.
''Are to!''
''Are not!''
''Are not.''
''Are to!...Erm..wait I mean I'm more..''
''Ha! So you admitted that I'm more badass!" Kurotsuchi pointed a finger at Naruto. A tic mark visible on her head.
''No I didn't!'' The blonde teen protested.
''Yes you did!''
''Did not!"
''Did not.''
''Did to!...erm wait..''
''You know, every time we argue you should give in because you won't beat me in one.'' Kurotsuchi said leaning herself against Naruto and pinching his cheek.
''Hey stop it!" Naruto said annoyed.
I don't think so.'' Kurotsuchi then grabbed Naruto in her infamous nose pinch of death.
''Gah!"
Mako then walked up and pushed the two Genin away from each other defusing the situation.
''Alright you two, that's enough we have training to do.'' She laughed.
''Yes sensei.'' The Iwa girl and blonde boy said.
The four of them then move over towards the small stream that was cutting through the middle of the training field.
''Mako sensei what are we going to do?'' Naruto questioned with a raised eyebrow.
Turning to face her students she gives them a smirk. ''Well Naruto, before we can figure out what affinity you have and learn any jutsu that will benefit you three I'm going to teach you this.'' Mako pointed towards the stream.
''Teach us what sensei?'' Kurotsuchi asked.
''I'm going to teach you three how to walk on water.'' Mako declared with a grin.
''Wow! That actually sounds cool!'' Naruto exclaimed excitedly.
''Walking on water huh? I've already practiced some of that at home in Iwa before I came here.'' Kurotsuchi said.
''It does sound interesting Mako sensei.'' Genma added.
''Oh? You've practiced this back in Iwa? Then let's demonstrate for Naruto then.'' Mako and Kurotsuchi then walk over to the water's edge. Performing a hand seal they gather chakra into the soles of their feet and after getting just the right amount they proceed to walk over into the water.
When they place their feet on the surface, instead of falling they, to Naruto's surprise and Genma's entertainment walk over the surface of the water without falling.
''Pretty cool huh?'' Mako said turning to face the boys. ''Genma let's see what your chakra control is about.''
''Got it sensei.'' Genma then performs the hand seal and proceeds to walk over the water too. Walking over to the girls he turns and gives Naruto a smirk. ''Well come on! Join us Naruto.''
''Alright!'' Naruto performs said hand seal gathering the necessary amount of chakra into his feet. He then walks over to the water's edge and places his foot on the surface.
''You think he'll get it guys?" Mako asked both Genma and Kurotsuchi.
''I know he will, I did train him when we were younger.'' Kurotsuchi said with a proud smirk.
''I would guess so too. He is determined.'' Genma said getting a nod from Kurotsuchi.
As Naruto slowly moves his foot over the surface of the water he closes his eyes praying to the death God that he doesn't sink into the stream's depths. Gently placing his foot onto the surface he opens his eyes and too his surprise, his foot was on the surface like it felt when he stood on the ground! Grinning his signature grin he moves his other foot onto the surface of the stream and to the cheers of his team he now stood tall and proud on the surface of the water.
''Wow! I got it on my first try!" He shouted in glee.
''Good job Naruto! Looks like your chakra control is good.'' Mako congratulated.
''That's my knucklehead!'' Kurotsuchi exclaimed with a smile.
''Nice one.'' Genma said.
They all then jump for joy at Naruto's first attempt to walk on water until...
''Bwah!" All four of them then sink into the water.
30 minutes later...
After getting out of the stream and drying up Mako is now seen teaching our Genin some lessons. Somehow there were three desks for the Genin and Mako was seen with a yardstick and a chalkboard.
''So you three, when it comes to match ups between the five elements which is stronger than which?'' Mako questioned in a lecturer's voice. ''Yes Kurotsuchi?''
''Well, fire beats wind, wind beats lightning, lightning beats earth, earth beats water and water, well it's obvious water beats fire.'' Kurotsuchi answered.
''Exactly right, just what I expected from the Tsuchikage's granddaughter.'' Mako makes the chalkboard and desks disappear and the four of them head to a small opening where Mako wants to conduct their training. ''So right now I'm going to teach you jutsu that will benefit whatever affinity you have. First I'll teach Naruto the jutsu my sensei's husband taught me when she was pregnant.''
''Oh nice! What jutsu would that be Mako-sensei?'' Naruto asked excitedly.
''I'll show you guys.'' Mako then held her hand out with the palm exposed and in a split second the Genin were once again, caught by surprise when Mako formed what appeared to be a rotating ball of chakra in the palm of her hand.
''Woah! That's really cool!" An excited Naruto exclaimed.
''What the..how is that possible?" A visibly shocked Kurotsuchi said.
''Well, this is new huh.'' Genma said casually.
''Now watch this.'' Mako then turned to face a large boulder several meters away from them. She then charges towards said boulder and shoves the spiraling chakra ball into it. The attack seemingly grinds into the rock until it completely breaks sending fragments of it flying in every direction. Nodding in satisfaction Mako dispels the technique and turns to face her students. ''So what do you think?"
The three Genin were still wide-eyed with shock at how easily the strange jutsu had destroyed the boulder. Seeing her Genin with those shocked expressions on her face Mako couldn't help but giggle. ''Earth to Naruto, Kurotsuchi, Genma? You guys there?'' Mako was waving her hand in front of each their faces.
Shaking their heads the three Genin then peppered the Jonin with questions as they all grabbed her by the collar of her vest and began shaking her violently.
''Mako-sensei teach that Jutsu to me now!" Naruto barked.
''Yeah what knucklehead said!" Kurotsuchi added.
''Teach this to us now!" Genma yelled.
''Hey relax you three stop shaking me!'' Mako ordered getting the three of them to let her go. Dusting herself off she then goes into teacher mode. ''Now now you three, first I want to teach this jutsu to Naruto since my sensei and her husband wanted me to teach it to him when he's old enough.''
''No fair!" Kurotsuchi pouted cutely.
''Oh well, I bet there's a ton of other jutsu you can teach me.'' Genma's usually calm and stoic voice spoke.
''Hell yeah! Let's start right away sensei!" Naruto practically dragged Mako off into the distance leaving Genma and Kurotsuchi sweatdropping.
''He's always full of energy is he?'' Genma asked the Iwa girl.
''Always has since the day I met him.'' Kurotsuchi snorted.
-Elsewhere in the training field-
''Alright sensei! Why did your sensei want you to teach me that jutsu?!'' Naruto asked barely unable to contain his excitement.
''Relax for a second Naruto and let me explain. First off, her husband basically invented the jutsu and it took him three years to master it. Before they died they kind of made a bet with me. I told them that I can get you to master this jutsu in less time than her husband did.''
''You made a bet with dead people!?'' A horrified Naruto screamed.
''No!'' Mako then bonked him on the side of the head.
''Ow!"
''I just said it Naruto, before they died we kind of made a bet on the time it takes you to master this jutsu. Now here.'' Mako took out a scroll and unfurled it. Placing some chakra into her hand she then places it on the scroll unsealing a whole cooler.
''What's the cooler for?'' A now confused Naruto asked.
Opening the cooler Naruto saw that it contained water balloons. Picking one up Mako hands the balloon to Naruto. ''Here.''
''Uh, what's this have to do with that jutsu?''
''This is the first step to learning it. This is one of the hardest jutsu to learn and it's an A-ranked one. This jutsu took the Fourth Hokage three whole years to learn it.'' Mako said with a smirk.
''What?! So you mean your sensei was the wife of the Fourth Hokage and they are the ones who wanted you to teach this to me?!'' Naruto exclaimed.
''That's right.'' Mako chuckled. ''So this jutsu is called the rasengan. It takes extremely refined chakra control to master which is something few shinobi have but with you I'm sure you can do it.'' The Jonin explained.
''Wow you think so?''
''Mmhm. Now let's get started on the first lesson to learning the rasengan. With this water balloon I want you to spin chakra into the palm of your hand. If the ball bursts it means you've pretty much mastered step one. Here, watch me.'' Mako then takes a water balloon into the palm of her hand and holds out for Naruto to see.
She then spins the chakra around in her palm making the water in the balloon churn in a controlled fashion and after about a minute the balloon bursts gently. ''See that? That's what I want to see Naruto.''
Nodding, Naruto then gathers chakra into his hand and he was greeted with the water in his balloon slowly, but surely churning. ''Come on! Pop!"
Mako just watched Naruto in amusement as he tried his hardest to get the water balloon to pop and after several minutes he couldn't get the result.
''Man!" Naruto grumbled in frustration as he tossed the water balloon away hitting a tree. ''I quit!''
From the brush emerged Kurotsuchi and Genma, who were watching the whole thing,.Kurotsuchi, seeing her best friend quit like that made her upset. ''Naruto!''
''Huh? Oh, hi Kurotsuchi.'' Naruto said scratching the back of his head nervously.
''Is the Naruto I know being a quitter right now? Hm? What did I say about quitters?'' Kurotsuchi said in a lecture voice with her hands on her hips.
''Yeah, what did she say about quitters?'' Mako said with a raised eyebrow. She was quite interested in the relationship between the two.
''Well, Kurotsuchi said she doesn't like quitters is all.'' Naruto said.
''Exactly. Now keep working on that jutsu until you master it. Show the Fourth Hokage you're better than him.'' Kurotsuchi encouraged.
''Fine fine.'' Naruto reached into the cooler and picked up another water balloon and began working on spiraling his chakra in his palm.
Mako, deciding that focusing only on Naruto would hurt the other two decided to go back to where the stream was to teach Genma and Kurotsuchi several jutsu that will benefit their affinities. ''Okay Naruto, while you work on that I'll go and teach Genma and Kurotsuchi jutsu that will work with whatever their affinities are okay? While we're gone I want you to keep practicing and if you're able to get that balloon to pop you go and do it to the other balloons and pop them all got it?" Mako said before turning her head back. ''Oh, and don't forget that special paper I gave you. To find out your chakra affinities simply place them in the palm of your hand.''
''You can count on me sensei!" Naruto exclaimed before the balloon in his hand, to everyone's surprise popped.
Naruto turned to face Mako and saw that the Uchiha Jonin had a surprised look on her face while his teammates gave him raised eyebrows.
''Fast learner, Minato-sensei, you and Kushina-sensei would be so proud.''
''Ha! I knew I was awesome!" Naruto then picked up another water balloon and after spinning his chakra into his palm for about a minute the balloon popped just like the one before it. ''Oh yeah! I'm gonna master this jutsu in no time!"
Kurotsuchi just snorted at her best friend's antics. ''Well he is unpredictable sensei. Let's leave him be and come back later to see what his progress is because I'm dying to learn some water jutsu from you.'' The Iwa girl said.
''And I'm interested in learning some awesome fire jutsu.'' Genma added.
Nodding, Mako then took out another scroll from her pack and channeled chakra into her hands unsealing another cooler. Opening it we see that it contained some rubber balls. ''Naruto, when you finish popping all the water balloons I want you to do the same with these rubber balls got it? The purpose with these is to have you use more dense chakra at a greater volume to pop it.''
''You got it sensei!" Naruto then continued to work on spiraling his chakra popping another water balloon.
''Okay you two, let's leave Naruto alone to train.'' Mako said leading the other two away.
four hours later...
''Alright, once again Kurotsuchi perform the hand seals and perform the jutsu on me.'' Mako explained as the Iwa girl performed said hand seals.
''Water release: Water prison jutsu!" Kurotsuchi said and Mako was quickly surrounded by a sphere of water that traps her. Giving Kurotsuchi a thumbs up Kurotsuchi then pulls her hand out of the water prison and the jutsu dispels.
''Damn, for a simple jutsu it sure takes a lot out of you.'' Kurotsuchi panted.
''But at least you've mastered it fairly easily Kurotsuchi. Good work.'' Mako said before turning to face Genma who was also tired from the jutsu she was teaching him. ''Your turn Genma.''
''Yes sensei..'' A visibly tired Genma said. Performing several hand seals he places his index and middle finger in front of his mouth and took a big breath in. ''Fire style: Fire blast jutsu!'' Genma takes a big breath out and from the tips of his fingers a massive stream of flames materializes into the kanji for big (大) and heads straight for his set of targets completely engulfing them until they were reduced to ashes.
''Damn..so much chakra for that jutsu.'' Genma said.
Nodding in satisfaction Mako then helps the two Genin up. ''Well, looks like you both have done very well in mastering the jutsu I've taught you both. Genma, remember that the fire blast and the flame charge jutsu will drain a lot out of you but if you keep practicing you'll be able to handle it in no time.'' She then turned to face Kurotsuchi. ''And for you Kurotsuchi it's the same thing. Practice the water prison and water bubble jutsu you're definitely going to be great at capturing the enemy.''
''The ash stone stealing, quicklime and now the water bubble and water prison. You're right sensei, I think I'll get good at capturing.'' Kurotsuchi said with a smile.
''That's right. Now let's go check on Naruto.'' Mako said as the three of them walk back to the small clearing where Naruto was when..
BOOM!
''What the crap was that?!'' Kurotsuchi exclaimed in shock.
The three of them then run into the small clearing and spot Naruto. Looking at the palm of his hand they saw that he had a spiraling ball of chakra in his hands.
''Yeah! I got it!" Naruto exclaimed in happiness before rushing forward towards a large tree and completely obliterating it with the rasengan.
''He's mastered it as fast as me. I'm really impressed.'' Mako thought with a smile.
''So he mastered a jutsu invented by a Kage? Well, I guess I'm not surprised, it is Naruto after all.'' Kurotsuchi thought with a smirk.
''What a surprise. I'm glad I didn't remain an asshole otherwise he would've shoved that jutsu right in my face.'' Genma thought with a sweatdrop.
''Woo! This jutsu is freaking cool! Oh hi Mako-sensei! Kurotsuchi! Genma! How did your training go?'' Naruto said spotting his comrades walking towards him.
''Naruto, how did you master the rasengan so easily?'' Mako asked.
''It was a lot easier than I expected! I did what you told me to do with the balloons and rubber balls then after that I pretty much got the right chakra density and volume. With that the rubber balls were a synch to pop then I combined steps one and two and well, here it is!'' Naruto then forms a rasengan in his hand with relative ease.
''That's my Naruto! You're starting to become a good shinobi.'' Kurotsuchi said in a teasing tone while pinching his cheek.
''Ow! Let go of my cheek Kuro-cha!'' Naruto cried out.
''What did I say? Never call me Kuro-chan.'' Kurotsuchi said in a sickeningly sweet voice.
''Okay I'm sorry!" Naruto said.
Mako, as usual was watching the exchange between the two with amusement. ''Kind of reminds me of Minato and Kushina-sensei except Kurotsuchi doesn't beat Naruto to a pulp.'' Mako thought with a smile.
''Anytime now you two.'' Genma laughed.
''Fine, but next time I'm gonna pull his nose off.'' Kurotsuchi said letting her best friend go.
''Damn, you have such a strong pinch.'' Naruto mumbled rubbing his cheek.
''Well, if you two are done flirting let's go grab some lunch. I brought some field rations if you'd like? If not we can go back to the village.'' Mako said.
''I've never tried those before so sure, whattya two think?'' Naruto said.
''I'll take one.'' Kurotsuchi shrugged.
''Same.'' Genma said.
Nodding, Mako walks over to grab her pack which was resting against a small rock and unzips it. She reaches into it and takes out four bags and tosses three of them to her Genin who catches them.
''Now I remembered what you guys like to eat from our little introductions on the roof so I made sure to find the right meal for each of you.'' Mako said as she walked back towards her Genin with her own ration in hand. ''Well? Let's eat!"
The four of them sit on the grass next to each other and begin digging into their respective meals. Naruto got pork miso ramen with a beef jerky while Kurotsuchi got dried noodles and some sugar free candy plus a snack bread. Genma got a vegetarian beef pattie with some chopped apples and for Mako she had Asian style fried rice with vegetables and a fruit cake.
''Huh? What's this thing?'' Naruto asked holding something that looked like a Ziploc bag.
''That's your flameless ration heater Naruto, to work it you need to pour water into the bag and place your entree into it.'' Kurotsuchi explained.
Nodding, Naruto then walks over to the stream and dunks the heater into it, getting just the right amount in he then places his entree and listens intently as it sizzles.
''That's pretty cool. Say Mako-sensei do shinobi in the field eat this?'' Naruto questioned.
''That's right, when we don't have access to real food we pack some of those. I'd much rather eat at a dango stand though. Oh, it comes with toilet paper too.'' Mako explained in a lecture voice.
''Toilet paper?'' Genma said reaching into his bag and pulling out said essential. ''Neat, but then that means we have to crap in the dirt.''
''Well Genma, shinobi are usually out in the field right? So don't complain.'' Kurotsuchi scolded.
''Meh.'' Was all Genma could say.
''Oh, I forgot Naruto did you use those papers that can tell you what your affinity is?'' Mako asked.
''Yes I did, it wrinkled and some static came out. I know the static means I have a lightning affinity but what does the wrinkled one mean?'' Naruto answered.
''Interesting, you have both lightning and wind which is super rare around here. Those two are found among the shinobi from Suna and Kumo.'' Mako said with a smile.
The four of them continue eating and chatting before they finished their meals. Since it was around one in the afternoon now Mako decided to do a bit more training before calling it a day and now they were standing by the stream.
''So what do you guys want to learn now? From what I've seen Kurotsuchi and Genma you two have no difficulty learning advanced jutsu like what I've taught you and Naruto has no problem with his chakra.''
''Well, considering we've learned two new jutsu and Naruto learned that crazy looking one from you..how about some kenjutsu sparring?'' Kurotsuchi inquired.
''Oh yeah, I forgot that you wield a wakizashi sensei. I'd like to try my hands on taking you on!'' Naruto quipped.
''You'd better be careful Naruto, remember when we watched sensei take on that Kumo asshole? Did you see how fast she can swing?'' Genma said.
''Duh, but I don't care! I like fighting tougher opponents!'' Naruto declared.
''You sure about Naruto? I'm one of the best in Konoha when it comes to bladed weapons.'' Mako said sticking her tongue out at the blonde.
''Yeah I'm sure! C'mon let's go!'' Naruto said as he unsheathes his ninjato.
''Alright then, Genma, Kurotsuchi you two keep tabs on how many hits each of us land on the other.'' Mako instructed.
The two in question then step to the side with Genma watching Mako and Kurotsuchi watching Naruto.
''Both sides ready?'' Genma asked.
Both Naruto and Mako nod, the two of them stand ready with their blades drawn.
''Then beg..''
Before Genma could give the signal four figures emerge from the brush.
''Oh, hey Mako I didn't expect to see you and your team here.'' A voice that sounded incredibly bored spoke out.
Turning to face the sound of the voice our characters spot another Jonin with spiky-silver hair, a mask and wearing the same outfit as Mako. The most noticeable feature being that his left eye was scarred as if someone had slashed it and it was partially closed. Behind him were three familiar faces that Naruto, Kurotsuchi, and Genma found annoying from the academy. Sasuke Uchiha, Ino Yamanaka and Sakura Haruno.
''What do you want Kakashi?'' Mako asked rolling her eyes.
''I was just in the neighborhood walking down the path of life when I came across you just now. Me and my team were about to use this field to train.'' Kakashi explained.
''Hn, hello oba-chan.'' Sasuke greeted.
''Hello Sasuke.'' Mako greeted back with a smile.
Naruto and Kurotsuchi were shocked at hearing this. Did Sasuke just call sensei oba?!
''YOU'RE HIS AUNT!?'' The two of the shouted while pointing at Mako accusingly.
''Yeah I am.'' Mako answered.
The two Genin then calm down and it would be Kurotsuchi who spoke.
''We know you're an Uchiha and all but we didn't expect you to be like his aunt or something.''
Sasuke then turned to look at Kurotsuchi. Oh he remembered her alright. The Iwa girl who whooped his ass on year one relatively easy. He was an Uchiha dammit! No one can defeat them!
Kakashi, who was smirking in amusement gave Kurotsuchi a look that seemed to give off a slightly hateful vibe. ''So there was an Iwa kid in this year's class? The Tsuchikage's granddaughter.'' Kakashi thought before looking over to Naruto. ''And that's...I'm not surprised he managed to survive the hate from the villagers. He is like his identical twin after all.''
Just then Sakura and Ino pointed fingers at Kurotsuchi accusingly. ''YOU! YOU'RE THE IWA GIRL WHO CHEATED DURING YOUR SPAR WITH SASUKE-KUN!" Sakura screamed.
''So what pinky? I won fair and square.'' Kurotsuchi snorted.
''No you didn't! You cheated!" Ino shouted angrily.
''God shut up Inoying!'' Kurotsuchi said placing her fingers in her ears in an attempt to block out the voices of the two girls.
''WHAT DID YOU SAY!?'' Ino screamed as she attempted to charge Kurotscuchi but Kakashi stopped her.
''Ino stop it.'' The masked Jonin said before turning to face Mako. ''So, since we're here as well Mako how about we have our Genin spar since they appear to have history? I want to see how well they've been trained up to this point.''
Turning to face her students she gives them a smirk. ''What do you three say? Up for some spars with Kakashi and his team?''
The three Genin look at each other. Oh boy, would it feel good to whoop ass again.
''Hell yeah sensei.'' They all responded.
''Great, Naruto you take Sasuke, Kurtosuchi you take Sakura and Genma gets Ino.'' Mako said.
''Man, this takes me back.'' Naruto said giving Sasuke a grin.
''Alright then, it's settled. Naruto and Sasuke will fight first.'' Kakashi nodded.
''Kick his ass Naruto.'' Kurotsuchi and Genma whispered into Naruto's ear.
''I will.'' Naruto said back before taking his position in front Sasuke.
The rest of them then move to the side and already Ino and Sakura were cheering like psychotic fan-girls.
''Beat him up Sasuke-kun!"
''Rip his heart out!"
''So annoying!" Sasuke thought with a frown.
''Alright, number one rule here. There are no rules. I want you two to go at it with the intention to kill. The match will end when either one is too beaten to continue or one forfeits. Is that clear?'' Kakashi announced.
''Just what are you trying Kakashi?'' Mako thought with a glare.
''Hn.''
''Loud and clear.''
''Then begin!''
With the signal Sasuke charges straight for Naruto going in for a spinning kick only for the blonde to effortlessly catch his foot with his hand.
''Easy.'' Naruto said before performing a maneuver that twists Sasuke's body to the ground leaving him open. ''Got you.''
Naruto was about to go in for a strike only to see a sadistic grin plastering the Uchiha's face.
''I think I'm the one whose got you.'' Sasuke sneered before pulling out a black egg from his pouch and tossing it at Naruto.
The egg connected and shatters sending broken glass shards into the blonde's face.
''Gah!'' Naruto cried out as he lets go and rubs his eyes in pain.
''Naruto!'' Kurotsuchi shouted out. She attempts to get up to see if he was okay only for Mako to hold her back.
''Kurotsuchi don't. He's okay.'' Mako reassured.
''But he just had glass thrown into his face!" Kurotsuchi protested.
''I know, but it's Naruto we're talking about.'' Mako gave her a smile letting her know that it was okay. ''Trust me.''
Nodding, Kurotsuchi sits back down and looks to Genma who nods.
''Fuck! Fuck!'' Naruto shouted out in obvious pain as the glass shards cut into his face.
''THAT'S RIGHT SASUKE-KUN!''
''YEAH! BEAT HIM UP!"
Sakura and Ino just continued to cheer for their precious Sasuke who by now threw an uppercut straight at Naruto sending the blonde falling on his back.
''Ack!'' Naruto cried out as he hit the ground.
Sasuke drew a kunai knife and charged straight at Naruto with the intention of shoving the weapon straight through his heart.
''Get up Naruto, get up!" Kurotsuchi thought with obvious worry.
''Huh, so much for being his son.'' Kakashi thought with disappointment.
''Take this!" Sasuke shouted as he plunged the blade downwards.
Ceasing his rubbing, Naruto manages to open his eyes and to everyone's surprise Naruto's eyes were just fine but his face had several bloody spots on his face. Kicking his foot up he delivers a powerful kick straight at Sasuke's jaw sending the Uchiha stumbling to the ground clutching his chin. Quickly getting to his feet he draws his two sai goes to bring his them down trying to impale Sasuke but the Uchiha manages to roll out of the way. However the fight would end when Sasuke attempts to get up only for Naruto to toss his sai pinning the Uchiha to the ground.
''What the heck!?'' An obviously angry Sasuke growled as he attempted to free himself.
Naruto walks over and unsheathes his ninjato placing it against Sasuke's throat. ''Using black eggs to disable your opponent for a kill? Smart, but it shows you can't fight me on equal terms Sasuke if you have to get me when I'm incapacitated.'' Naruto said.
Mako and Kakashi look at each other and nod.
''Alright, Naruto wins this match.'' Kakashi announced as he walks in between the two Genin.
Nodding, Naruto unpins Sasuke and sheathes his ninjato and goes to walk back to where his team was.
''You okay Naruto?'' Kurotsuchi asked taking out an alcohol wipe and goes to clean off the blood on his face.
''Yeah, it just stings a bit is all.'' Naruto reassured.
''YOU CHEATED YOU BLONDE ASSHOLE!"
''YEAH! SASUKE WAS OBVIOUSLY THE SMARTER ONE USING THAT BLACK EGG.''
''Dear Kami, so damn annoying!'' Sasuke thought as he is helped up by Kakashi.
''It's not cheating pinky and Inoying. Naruto is just better that's all.'' Kurotsuchi said.
''Oh, defending your boyfriend huh? That's typical coming from the Iwa girl!" Sakura shot back.
''I'm actually focused on my kunoichi career, even if I'm from Iwa I'm glad I came here because I've never met anyone as kind as Naruto. Oh and we're just best friends. So shut your mouth.'' The Iwa girl retorted.
''Shove a stone up your-''
''Okay, that's enough Sakura.'' Kakashi said shutting the pink girl up. ''You want to fight her? Then get into position.''
Sakura then gets up and stands ready to fight Kurotsuchi who also walks up.
''She's got this in the bag.'' Naruto commented.
''Definitely.'' Genma said.
30 minutes later...
''Well, that about sums it up. Your Genin totally outdo mine and now I remember why you are the best Jonin from our class.'' A bruised and beaten to a pulp Kakashi chuckled carrying an unconscious Sakura while Sasuke and a battered Ino stood on either side of him.
''Because I actually take my duty as Jonin seriously Kakashi. Lazy ass.'' Mako snorted. ''Also, next time you might want to rethink getting into a spar with me.''
''That is true, but if the two girls actually put in dedication maybe they'd be on Sasuke's level.'' Kakashi said as he turns to walk away. ''Ino, Sasuke, come on.''
Team Mako then watch the four of them walk away.
''Damn sensei, I knew were you awesome but I didn't expect you'd be that good.'' Naruto commented as he recalled how badly Mako had beaten the silver-haired Jonin.
''Yeah, I mean, you literally took him down without a problem! He didn't even come close to landing hits!" Kurotsuchi added.
''Ha, Ino was too easy, all I did was trip her!" Genma laughed. ''How did she get all those bruises?''
''All I did was pinch Sakura's pressure point and BAM! She knocks right out. That girl.'' Kurotsuchi giggled.
Checking her watch, Mako saw that it was now almost six in the evening. ''So, you guys want to call it a day?''
''Considering we've learned several jutsu from you and whooped that team's ass. I think we're good.'' Kurotsuchi said earning sounds of agreements from Naruto and Genma.
''Alright then. Until tomorrow. Same place, same time.'' Mako said as she shunshins away via her signature raven flock.
''I'm pooped.'' Genma said stretching. ''I'm headed home so you two have fun!'' The brown-haired teen then ran off leaving the two alone.
''I think I'll head home too, see ya tomorrow Naruto.'' Kurotsuchi said.
''Oh, okay. I was wondering if you'd like to go do something Kurotsuchi.'' Naruto said with a hint of sadness.
Hearing the tone in his voice she turned and saw that he was sulking. Despite how much she wanted to spend time with Naruto she really wanted to head home to rest. ''Alright then Naruto, how about this? Just let me go home and rest for a few hours and come around..I'd say eight. Sound good?'' Kurotsuchi said with a smile.
''Okay! I'll find something cool for us to do!" Naruto said excitedly.
Kurotsuchi nodded and then proceeded to walk away with her assault pack hanging off her left arm. ''By the way Naruto.'' Kurotsuchi said coming to a halt.
''Yeah?''
''Are you technically asking me out on a date?''
Naruto went bright red hearing this. ''Um..uh...whatever gave you that idea?!'' The now nervous blonde asked.
Turning around, Kurotsuchi sticks her tongue out at him. ''Silly, I'm just teasing you.'' She said easing his nerves.
Sighing in relief Naruto watched as Kurotsuchi walked away but not before stopping again.
''You know it's cool if you want to take me out, we can have a friend date.'' Kurotsuchi said with a smirk.
This caused Naruto to turn bright red.
''You sure?''
Kurotsuchi simply nodded.
''Yeah I'm sure, let's go!''
-Kurotsuchi's apartment complex-
Kurotsuchi is seen sweeping the floor in her apartment, having discarded her usual Iwa kunoichi outfit she now wore a gray t-shirt with the kanji for stone on the back of it and black shorts that stopped at her upper thigh with her usual mesh leggings on. As she continued cleaning there was a knock at the door.
''Coming.'' She answered setting the broom aside. Walking to the door she opens it and there stood Naruto who was wearing a sweater with what she saw was a white t-shirt underneath it and he wore sweatpants.
''Hi Kurotsuchi!'' The blonde greeted.
''Hi Naruto.'' Kurotsuchi looked back at the clock in her living room and saw that it was close to 7:30. ''It's not eight yet.''
''I like to be early anyway! Now come on! I've got it all set up already.''
''Hold your horses blondie." Kurotsuchi walked over to put on her ninja sandals. She then walks out of her apartment and locks the door. ''What are we doing by the way?''
''It's a surprise!'' Naruto then practically dragged Kurotsuchi out of her apartment and took off.
''Ah! Slow down!"
-In the forest outside Konoha-
After about thirty-minutes of dragging Kurotsuchi through the woods they finally arrived at the spot where Naruto planned on taking her.
''We're here!" Naruto said letting the girl go and the sight before her was one of the most beautiful places she had ever seen. Before them was a small waterfall leading to a small pond. The water seemed to glisten and sparkle from the moonlight and the temperature of the water gave the area cool air. The lush vegetation gently swaying with the breeze.
''So what do you think?'' Naruto asked.
''It's beautiful Naruto.'' Kurotsuchi managed to say.
''I'd knew you like it! Come over here!'' Naruto led her to a small picnic area that was at the base of the waterfall.
The spot had a blanket laid out and a picnic basket with it's contents spread out neatly. The both of them sit on the picnic blanket and the first thing Naruto did was open up the medium-sized pot he had brought. Taking a ladle he scoops up the soup that was inside and poured it in a bowl for her. Handing it to Kurotsuchi she takes it felt that it was warm and took a whiff of it. It smelled so good!''
''Naruto, did you make this?'' She asked with a smile.
''I sure did! It's my special Tonjiru! Go and have a taste!'' Naruto said handing her a plastic spoon.
Taking the spoon from the blonde she scoops up a spoonful of the Tonjiru and sips it up. Her eyes then went wide from how tasty it was! ''Wow Naruto, this is...so good!''
''I'm glad you like it!'' Naruto then reached for a plastic container and opened it revealing smoked salmon. Taking another container he opens that one to reveal rice balls. ''Try my smoked salmon and rice balls!''
Setting the bowl down Kurotsuchi does what she was told and picks up a rice ball and salmon. Putting the food into her mouth her tastebuds were sent to absolute bliss! She'd thought her cooking was good but Naruto's was just as good as her if not..dare she say it better. ''You didn't have to do any of this for me you know.''
''Remember when you cooked for me? I wanted to do something like that for you too.'' Naruto said making Kurotsuchi smile.
''And you're such a good cook Naruto. How come you never showed this side of you to me?'' Kurotsuchi asked as she finished chewing her food.
Oh, uh I think I picked it up from you actually.'' Naruto said scratching the back of his head nervously.
''So you're saying you copied me!?'' Kurotsuchi pointed a finger at him accusingly.
''Did not!" Naruto exclaimed defensively.
''Did too!"
''Did not!"
''Did too!''
''Did not!"
''Did too!''
The two of them were unaware that their faces were getting closer inch by inch and before they could continue their little argument their noses touched. They both stopped speaking and froze in place as they felt the warmth of the other's nose touching their own. Separating they scratch their heads in embarrassment as they blush.
''Uh...Did not..'' Naruto said nervously.
''Did too..'' Kurotsuchi said blushing.
The two of them sit there in awkward silence until Naruto picked up some wasabi and offered it to Kurotsuchi for her salmon. ''Wasabi?''
''Sure.'' Kurotsuchi held her salmon out for Naruto to put some wasabi on it and as he goes squeeze the little container Kurotsuchi quickly reaches with her free hand and grabs the container.
''What the?'' A confused Naruto said and before he knew it Kurotsuchi smothered some wasabi on his face, most noticeably his cheek covering his whisker marks. ''Hey!"
''Sorry, I couldn't resist!'' Kurotsuchi said playfully handing him a napkin.
''Ha, very funny.'' Naruto grumbled as he cleaned himself up.
After settling down and eating their food the two best friends then lay there staring at the stars. Something they really enjoyed doing with each other.
''It's been awhile since we've looked at the stars together huh?'' Kurotsuchi said breaking the silence.
''Yes it has, when was the last time we did it? At the end of year three?'' Naruto asked.
''I believe so.''
The two of them continued to stay like that until a powerful, cold wind blew through the area.
''Brrr! That was the coldest wind ever! I'm freezing!'' Kurotsuchi said as she sat up and hugged herself trying to keep warm.
Naruto looked at her seeing the Iwa girl hugging herself. ''You know, you look kind of cute when you're shivering from the cold.'' He teased.
Kurotsuchi, despite still shivering gave him her lava eye death stare. ''So...you think I look cute when I'm a Kurosicle?'' She said evilly.
Naruto's teasing halted when he saw that evil look in her eyes. ''Oh shit...um...no that's not what I meant! I um...uh..you're not cute..Wait! I mean..um...'' Naruto tried to articulate his words but was unsuccessful.
''So you think I'm cute or not?!'' Kurotsuchi yelled.
''Of course I do! I think you're very cute!'' Naruto said holding his hands up in defense.
''Good.'' Kurotsuchi said.
''No one likes stutterers.'' Naruto said before picking up on what she also said.
Kurotsuchi then sits back and hugs herself again still cold from the breeze. Seeing her Naruto takes off his sweater hands it to her.
''Here, it's quite chilly, I wouldn't want you to turn into a Kurosicle.'' The blonde teen said.
Kurotsuchi looked at the sweater and then him. ''No no, you need it more than me Naruto.'' She pushed the sweater back towards him.
''I insist.'' Naruto quipped pushing the sweater back towards her.
''Nope, you keep it.'' Kurotsuchi said.
''You need it.''
''I don't.''
''You do.''
''I don't.''
''You do.''
''I don't.''
''You do!''
''I don't.''
''You do!''
''You do.''
''I don't!...erm...wait..''
''Aha! So you don't need your sweater then huh? Fine then, let me keep warm!" Kurotsuchi took the sweater from Naruto and put it on. Naruto however, was glad that she had an extra layer of clothes on just in case that cold wind blew again.
''Ah..so warm.'' Kurotsuchi said as she goes to lay down.
''See? You did need it!'' Naruto accused.
''Maybe I do.''
Naruto then lays down beside her and the two continue to gaze up at the stars.
''So Naruto..I have a question.''
''Yeah? What would that be?''
''You got a crush on anyone?''
Caught completely off guard Naruto began stuttering once again. ''Uh...um don't ask such things!"
Kurotsuchi reached over and pinched his cheek. ''Awwww, is Nawuto afwaid of telling his best frwiend who he has a cwush on?'' She teased.
''I don't have one!" Naruto shouted.
''Fine, I believe you.'' Kurotsuchi let go of his cheek though she didn't really believe him.
''God!...so...who do you have a crush on?''
''Don't ask such things!'' Kurotsuchi then pinched him even harder.
''Ow!''
The sounds of Naruto and Kurotsuchi struggling for control of his nose would ensue for a half hour before they fell asleep. The sounds of their snoring and the wonderful music the wildlife was producing echoed throughout the night.
The next morning..
''Naruto! You there!'' Mako said as she knocked on his apartment door but got no response.
''Weird, usually Naruto is always running to the door, Kurotsuchi isn't home either.'' Genma who was leaning against the wall next to the door said. ''Maybe they're sparring?''
''I already checked all the training fields and didn't find them.'' Mako said.
The two of them then hop off into the distance to continue their search for the two.
-Picnic area, 30 minutes later-
As the birds chirped their morning tunes the camera shifts back to the waterfall where Naruto and Kurotsuchi had had the little picnic the night before. We see the two of them sleeping...in a rather affectionate position. Naruto was sleeping with his chest on Kurotsuchi's back with his arm wrapped around her waist in the spoon position.
''Mm, Kurotsuchi.'' Naruto said in his sleep as he tightens his embraced.
Kurotsuchi then stirs in her sleep and turns her body around to where their faces were centimeters apart and noses touching. Kurotsuchi then involuntarily places a hand on Naruto's cheek before nuzzling her cheeks against his earning sleeping moans of pleasure from the blonde.
''Heh heh, you feel soft.'' Naruto said quitely as Kurotsuchi then rests her head on his chest
Then two shadows loom over them.
''Oh, so this is where they've been.'' The revealed Mako said trying to hold back a giggle.
''Yep, looks like sensei.'' Genma chuckled.
'Should we wake them up?''
Shaking her head Mako just smirks. ''They'll wake up in five...four...three...two...one...''
On cue the Kurotsuchi would be the first one to wake. Opening her eyes she yawns and looks up and was greeted by Naruto's sleeping face. The closeness her face was to his made her turn bright red.
''Morning Kurotsuchi.'' Mako said alerting the Iwa girl to her sensei's presence.
''Mako-sensei!" Kurotsuchi said jumping up from Naruto's embrace inadvertently waking him in the process.
''Yawn, good morning Kurotsuchi.'' Naruto said rubbing his eyes. ''Oh, hey Mako-sensei, Genma, how's your morning?'' The blonde asked casually.
''Oh, we were just in the neighborhood when we happened to find you and Kurotsuchi cuddling.'' Mako said trying her hardest not to giggle.
''That's right.'' Genma added.
The two teenagers turned red and then they noticed the sadistic grin plastered on Mako's face and that grin told them that she had something planned for them.
''Mako-sensei, why are you grinning like that?'' Naruto asked.
''Yeah, it's almost scary the way you're smiling.'' Kurotsuchi said.
''Tell me about it.'' Genma quipped.
All three Genin stared at their teacher nervously before she gave her answer.
Mako closed her eyes momentarily before opening them again and looked at Naruto.
''Well, I've decided that since you three did excellent in our first training session I decided that we are going to be doing some more hardcore training for the next few months because I want to truly see how much you three can grow. I'm preparing you for something.'' The Uchiha woman declared.