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

Chapter 5: Training Together

The sun rose over Konoha, casting a golden hue across the village. Ino Yamanaka arrived early at the training grounds, her heart brimming with excitement. Today was the first official day of training with Team 10 under their new sensei, Asuma Sarutobi, and she could hardly contain her enthusiasm.

"Good morning, Ino!" Choji called out, waving as he approached. His usually laid-back demeanor was replaced by a bouncy energy.

"Morning, Choji!" Ino replied with a grin. "Are you ready to train?"

"Definitely! I can't wait to show off what we can do!" Choji exclaimed, his excitement contagious.

A moment later, Shikamaru sauntered in with his usual lazy expression. "Do we really have to get here so early?" he asked, stretching his arms overhead. "It's so troublesome."

Ino rolled her eyes playfully. "You know we have to make a good impression on Asuma-sensei! Plus, training is important!"

"Fine, fine," Shikamaru muttered, plopping down on a nearby rock. "Just don't expect me to do anything too strenuous."

Shortly after, Asuma arrived, his commanding yet relaxed presence instantly setting the tone. "Morning, Team 10! Ready for some training?"

"Absolutely!" Ino replied, her determination shining through.

"Good! Today we'll focus on teamwork and strategy. Let's start with some basic exercises," Asuma said, motioning for them to follow him into the clearing.

As the day unfolded, Ino could feel camaraderie growing among them. They practiced various techniques, with Asuma encouraging them to communicate and support each other. Ino felt empowered as she guided Choji through the steps of using the Body Expansion Jutsu more effectively.

"Thanks, Ino! That really helps!" Choji beamed, clearly boosted by her encouragement.

"Of course! We're a team!" she replied, proud of her friend.

Meanwhile, Shikamaru stayed back, observing with his usual nonchalance. Asuma approached him. "You know, Shikamaru, the key to being a great ninja isn't just strategy; it's about how you work with your teammates. Don't be afraid to engage."

Shikamaru sighed, looking unbothered. "I get it. But it's just so troublesome to put in too much effort."

Asuma chuckled, ruffling Shikamaru's hair. "Sometimes, the most strategic move is to put in the effort, even if it seems like a drag."

As they trained, Ino noticed the other teams at work nearby. Team 8 was practicing with Kurenai, and Ino watched as Hinata demonstrated the gentle style of taijutsu, showing both grace and determination. Kiba's loud enthusiasm contrasted with Shino's calm, creating a fascinating dynamic that caught Ino's attention.

On the other side, Team 7 was hard at work with Kakashi. Ino spotted Sakura practicing her punches, focused intently as she tried to impress Sasuke, who stood coolly to the side. Ino felt a twinge of envy at Sakura's determination but reminded herself of her own goals with Team 10.

"Hey, Ino! How about a quick spar?" Shikamaru's sudden suggestion took her by surprise.

"Really? You want to spar?" Ino raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

"Just to see what you've got. Plus, I can observe your moves to come up with a better strategy," he replied with a smirk.

"Bring it on!" Ino grinned, stepping into a fighting stance.

Their spar began, and Ino felt the thrill of the challenge. She launched her shuriken at Shikamaru, who dodged effortlessly, looking bored. "You'll have to do better than that," he said, yawning.

"Oh, come on!" Ino laughed, determined to prove him wrong. She pushed herself, surprising him with a quick feint before moving in for a punch.

As the spar continued, she noticed Shikamaru beginning to engage, showing more interest than usual. Their banter and friendly rivalry added a spark to their training.

After several rounds, Asuma called for a break. "Nice work, Team 10! You're improving already, especially in your teamwork. Remember, your strengths will complement each other on missions."

Catching her breath, Ino felt a deep sense of accomplishment. She could see how their unique skills would help them work together as a team, each enhancing the others' abilities.

As the day wound down, Ino felt grateful for her teammates. She had grown closer to Shikamaru and Choji, and their banter had become a cherished part of her daily life. Even though Shikamaru could be lazy, she valued his strategic mind, while Choji's strength and good nature always lifted her spirits.

As they headed back to the village, Ino couldn't shake the feeling that this was just the beginning of something great. With each passing day, they would train, grow, and build bonds that would last a lifetime.