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

Chapter 10: The Forest of Death

The atmosphere in the Forest of Death was thick with anticipation and a hint of danger. As Team 10 stepped into the ominous woods, Ino couldn't shake the feeling that this would be a test unlike any they'd faced before. The trees loomed overhead, casting shadows that danced with the wind, creating an eerie backdrop for the challenges they were about to encounter.

"Stay alert," Asuma instructed, his tone serious as he looked at each of them. "Your first goal is to find a scroll from another team. Remember, the goal is not just to survive but to work together as a team."

"Got it," Ino replied, trying to sound confident despite the nervous flutter in her chest. She glanced at Shikamaru, who seemed unfazed as usual, and Choji, who was nervously snacking on chips. Their composure reassured her, giving her a bit more confidence.

As they ventured deeper into the forest, Ino could feel the tension building. She focused on her surroundings, using her sensory abilities to keep track of potential threats. The rustling leaves and distant sounds of creatures reminded her they weren't alone.

"Let's stick together, okay?" she suggested, glancing at Shikamaru and Choji. "We don't want to get separated. We need to find a team quickly."

Shikamaru nodded, his brow furrowed in thought. "I suggest we head toward the center. More teams will likely gather there, which means better chances of finding a scroll."

Moving forward, Ino felt a flicker of unease. It was hard not to be on edge, knowing that other teams would be searching for them as eagerly as they were searching for others. She recalled the warnings they'd received about this test-it was designed to push them to their limits.

Suddenly, voices sounded in the distance. Her heart quickened as she signaled for them to stop. "Over there!" she whispered, straining to listen.

As they approached, Ino recognized the familiar voices of Team 7-Naruto, Sakura, and Sasuke. "They might have a scroll!" she exclaimed, a hopeful idea forming in her mind.

"Should we go talk to them?" Choji asked, looking uncertain.

"Let's see what they're doing first," Shikamaru suggested, always the strategist. They crept closer, peering through the bushes.

To their surprise, Team 7 was deep in discussion about their next move. "We need to find a team to challenge," Naruto said, clearly eager for action. "I bet we can take them!"

Sakura, on the other hand, seemed more focused on Sasuke, her eyes sparkling with determination. "What if we run into someone strong? We need to be careful."

Ino's heart sank a little as she watched them. Sasuke looked cool and composed, while Sakura hung on his every word. She couldn't help feeling a twinge of jealousy, thinking about how much she wanted to impress him, too.

"Should we just jump in?" she whispered to her teammates, but Shikamaru held up a hand.

"Wait. Let's listen a little longer," he replied.

Just as they were about to make a move, a rustle sounded in the bushes nearby. Ino's senses kicked into overdrive. "We're not alone!" she hissed, gripping her kunai tightly.

A group of four shinobi emerged, their expressions menacing as they eyed Team 7. Ino recognized them immediately as the Sound Four, notorious for their ruthlessness. "Well, well, what do we have here?" one of them taunted, smirking at Naruto and Sakura.

Ino exchanged worried glances with Shikamaru and Choji. This wasn't good. If a fight broke out, they needed to be ready.

"Let's back off," she suggested, not wanting a confrontation if they could avoid it. Shikamaru nodded, and they carefully retreated a few steps.

But tension filled the air as the Sound shinobi cornered Team 7, and Ino couldn't ignore her instinct to help. "We can't just leave them," she insisted, her protective nature kicking in. "They're in trouble!"

"Are you crazy? If we interfere, we'll just make it worse," Shikamaru replied, trying to keep her grounded.

Before she could respond, a loud clash erupted as Naruto charged forward, yelling, "I won't let you hurt them!"

Her heart raced as chaos ensued. "We need to do something!" she said, knowing they couldn't just stand by.

Shikamaru sighed, realizing they had no choice. "Alright, but we need a plan. Choji, you distract them while Ino and I provide backup."

"Got it!" Choji replied, determination sparking in his eyes.

As they sprang into action, Ino felt a surge of adrenaline. She activated her Mind Transfer Jutsu, aiming to help Naruto and Sakura while keeping an eye on Sasuke.

"Let's go!" Shikamaru shouted, and they charged into the fray.

The fight was chaotic, but they managed to coordinate their attacks. Ino focused on using her jutsu strategically, hoping to give Team 10 an advantage. Amidst the battle, she couldn't help but steal glances at Sasuke, hoping he'd notice her efforts.

After a fierce exchange, they managed to fend off the Sound shinobi, but the strain of the battle left them all breathless. Ino turned to Team 7, her heart pounding.

"You guys okay?" she asked, her voice filled with concern.

Naruto grinned, "Yeah, but those guys were tough!"

Sakura glanced at Sasuke, admiration and annoyance mingling in her gaze. "We couldn't have done it without you," she said, looking at him.

"Let's not linger. We need to find a scroll," Sasuke stated, his tone commanding.

As they regrouped, Ino couldn't shake the feeling of pride. They'd worked together to overcome a challenge, even if it meant risking themselves. But she also felt a tinge of frustration. Sasuke's attention remained on Team 7, and she wondered if she'd ever truly stand out to him.

"Come on, Team 10," she said, pushing those thoughts aside. "Let's find that scroll. We're not done yet!"

With determination fueling them, they moved deeper into the Forest of Death, ready to face whatever awaited. Ino knew this was only the beginning, and she was more determined than ever to prove herself-not just as a kunoichi, but as someone worthy of Sasuke's attention.