Thought it was You Shikamaru. (Shikaino Shikamaru x ino)

Chapter 4: Team Assignments

The day had finally arrived. Inside the Konoha Academy, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and anxiety. Among her classmates, Ino Yamanaka stood with her heart racing in anticipation. Today marked the beginning of their journeys as ninjas.

Ino glanced at Hinata, who stood nervously beside her, wringing her hands. "Are you ready for this?" she asked, trying to ease her own nerves.

Hinata nodded slowly, her large eyes wide with uncertainty. "I just hope we get to be on the same team."

Ino offered a reassuring smile. "We will! Just think positive!" They had grown close during their time at the Academy, and the thought of facing this new chapter together brought her comfort.

Just then, Iruka Umino entered the classroom, instantly quieting the chatter. "Alright, everyone! Quiet down!" he commanded. "Today is a significant day-today you'll find out your teams!"

Ino's heart pounded as she exchanged glances with Naruto across the room, who was practically bouncing in his seat. The tension was palpable, filling her with a mix of excitement and anxiety.

"First up, Team 10! Your sensei will be Asuma Sarutobi, and your team members are Shikamaru Nara, Ino Yamanaka, and Choji Akimichi!"

Ino's heart soared at the sound of her name alongside her friends. "Yes!" she exclaimed, clapping her hands together. "This is amazing!" Turning to Shikamaru and Choji, her excitement bubbled over.

"Great, now I'm stuck with you guys," Shikamaru teased with a smirk, and Ino playfully nudged him in response.

"Come on! We're going to be an awesome team!" she replied, her energy infectious.

"Next, Team 8! Your sensei will be Kurenai Yuhi, and your team members are Kiba Inuzuka, Hinata Hyuga, and Shino Aburame!"

Ino watched as Hinata's face lit up with surprise and joy. "We did it!" Hinata exclaimed, glancing over at Kiba, who was grinning widely.

"Alright! Team 8 is gonna rock!" Kiba shouted, striking a pose.

"Now for Team 7! Your sensei will be Kakashi Hatake, and your team members are Sasuke Uchiha, Naruto Uzumaki, and Sakura Haruno!"

Ino felt her heart drop slightly as she watched Sakura beam with delight, her excitement palpable. Sasuke leaned casually against a wall, his cool demeanor only intensifying her feelings of envy. "Ugh, of course," she muttered under her breath.

Iruka continued, "And that wraps up the teams! You will now meet your senseis in the training area. Get to know each other and start planning how you'll work together!"

As the announcements ended, Ino felt a rush of determination. She turned to Shikamaru and Choji, her heart racing. "Let's show everyone what we can do!"

Shikamaru sighed, a hint of his trademark laziness creeping in. "Sure, but let's not go too hard. It's not like we have to impress anyone on the first day."

"Please, Shikamaru! We need to make a good impression!" Ino insisted, her competitive spirit flaring.

As they walked toward the training grounds, she took a moment to glance back at Team 7. Sasuke stood with his arms crossed, exuding effortless coolness while Sakura excitedly discussed their future missions. The desire to impress Sasuke flickered in Ino's chest, but she quickly turned her attention back to her own team.

Arriving at the training area, the weight of potential filled the air. They were no longer just academy students; they were soon-to-be ninjas, prepared to face the challenges ahead.

Once gathered, Asuma Sarutobi stepped forward. "Welcome, Team 10. I'll be your sensei. I expect a lot from each of you, so let's get to know one another better."

Ino felt a thrill at the prospect of working under Asuma. His laid-back yet serious demeanor put her at ease while pushing her to improve.

Shikamaru leaned in, "I guess we should come up with some kind of strategy."

Ino nodded, heart racing with the possibilities. "Absolutely! We should showcase our strengths during missions. Shikamaru, you're great with strategy, and Choji, your strength will be crucial."

As they began discussing their strengths and weaknesses, excitement filled Ino's heart. They were on the cusp of a thrilling journey, and together they would navigate the world of ninjas, friendships, and rivalries.

With a determined smile, Ino looked at her teammates. "Let's show them what Team 10 can do!"