Toji's footsteps were steady, his mind focused on the rigorous training he had been undergoing. As he rounded a corner, he nearly collided with a familiar figure.
"Sakura," he greeted, his voice a mix of curiosity and mild surprise.
The pink-haired kunoichi looked up, her eyes brightening when she saw him.
"Naruto!" Sakura responded, her voice infused with determination. "I'm training hard with Kurenai-sensei. I want to get stronger, to not be a burden to the team."
Toji raised an eyebrow, impressed by the fire in her eyes.
Before he could respond, Kurenai Yuhi arrived, her presence commanding yet gentle.
"Sakura, are you ready for today's session?" Kurenai asked, her tone both encouraging and firm.
"Yes, Kurenai-sensei," Sakura replied eagerly.
Toji found himself momentarily at a loss for words as he observed Kurenai. There was something about her-a blend of strength and elegance-that captivated him. The way she carried herself, the confidence in her stride.
Kurenai noticed Toji's presence and gave him a polite nod. "Good afternoon, Naruto I hope your training is going well."
"It is," Toji replied
"You're training Sakura, huh? She's lucky to have a teacher like you."
Kurenai smiled, a small, knowing smile that sent a shiver down his spine. "Thank you. Sakura has shown great potential and dedication. I'm confident she'll grow into a formidable kunoichi."
Sakura, standing nearby, glanced between the two with a curious look but said nothing.
"Mind if I join your session?" Toji asked, his eyes locking onto Kurenai's.
Kurenai exchanged a brief glance with Sakura before nodding. "Of course. Feel free to observe."
They went to training ground 8.
Toji settled himself against a nearby tree, his gaze fixed on the training pair. Kurenai guided Sakura through a series of complex lessons. Sakura's determination was evident.
As the session drew to a close, Kurenai praised Sakura for her hard work. "Well done, Sakura. That's enough for today."
Sakura nodded, her face flushed with exertion but also pride. "Thank you, Kurenai-sensei."
Kurenai turned to Toji, who was still leaning against the tree. "Would you like to spar, Toji? It might be beneficial for Sakura to see different styles in action."
Toji's eyes lit up at the suggestion. "I'd be honored."
They moved to the center of the training ground, adopting their stances. The air was thick with anticipation as they began their spar. Kurenai's first move was to cast a genjutsu. He smirked, recognizing her strategy but knowing it wouldn't work on him.
"Genjutsu won't work on me," he said, his voice low and confident. "I don't have chakra for you to manipulate."
Kurenai's eyes narrowed in determination. "Then we'll rely on taijutsu."
They engaged in a flurry of punches and kicks. Kurenai's movements were quick and agile, but Toji's were faster and stronger. He held back, not wanting to overwhelm her. Despite her best efforts, Kurenai found herself gradually pushed back, Toji's superior physical abilities evident.
With a final move, Toji managed to pin Kurenai to the ground, his hands firmly but gently holding her wrists above her head. They were both breathing heavily, their bodies close, the heat of their exertion mingling in the air.
