As I walked through the lively streets of Konoha, the sun cast warm rays on the village, giving it a welcoming glow. I made my way toward Training Ground No. 15, a place known for its serene environment, perfect for focused practice.
Approaching the training ground, I noticed three familiar figures waiting eagerly. Konohamaru, Moegi, and Udon stood together, their expressions a mix of excitement and impatience. When they spotted me, they rushed over.
"Naruto nii-chan!" Konohamaru called out, his voice brimming with enthusiasm. Moegi waved, her eyes shining, while Udon adjusted his glasses, nodding in acknowledgment.
"Hey, you three!" I greeted, smiling at their excitement.
"Are you going to teach us some cool stuff today?" Konohamaru asked, bouncing on his heels.
"Yeah! You said you had a few things we might want to learn!" Moegi chimed in.
I chuckled softly, keeping my demeanor calm. "I do have a jutsu I can show you. It's called Shadow Step."
Konohamaru's expression shifted slightly, disappointment creeping in. "What? That doesn't sound very flashy! I want something with big explosions!"
I smiled, understanding his disappointment. "It may not look flashy, but it's incredibly useful for a ninja. This jutsu allows you to move quickly and quietly, making you nearly invisible when you need to be."
"But—" Konohamaru started to protest, but I interrupted him.
"If you can master this, I'll teach you something more powerful later. Something that might have those explosions you're looking for."
His eyes lit up at that prospect. "Alright! I'll do it! You can count on me!" he exclaimed, determination radiating from him.
With their renewed enthusiasm, I began guiding them through the basic mechanics of Shadow Step. I watched as they attempted to absorb the instructions, each of them trying to find their footing with the technique.
After some time, I felt satisfied with their initial attempts. "Keep practicing, and I'll check back on your progress later," I said, stepping back to give them space to focus.
As I left the training ground, I caught sight of someone familiar in the distance. It was Sakura, with striking pink hair styled in a short, playful cut, complemented by loose, flowing strands. Her bright green eyes conveyed a sense of warmth and charm. She was dressed in a stylish outfit that showcased her curvaceous figure: a form-fitting white top accentuated her bust, while a black jacket added a trendy flair. The wide sash tied around her waist emphasized her hourglass shape, and her slightly revealing shorts highlighted her toned thighs. A garter belt added an edgy touch to her look, making her overall appeal even more captivating. The backdrop of cherry blossoms created a vibrant and lively atmosphere that only enhanced her allure.
Our eyes met, and she paused for a moment before walking toward me. "Hey, Naruto!" she called out, her voice bright with excitement. "I'm glad I caught you!"
"Hey, Sakura! It's great to see you!" I replied, returning her smile.
"We need to go to the Hokage's office to get our first mission together after two and half year" she said, her expression shifting to one of determination.
"Right, let's head over there," I agreed, falling into step beside her.
As we walked, I noticed Sakura's cheeks flushing slightly, a hint of shyness creeping into her demeanor. "So, how has training been for you?" she asked, trying to keep the conversation flowing.
"It's been good. I've been working on a few new techniques. It feels great to be back in the village," I replied, glancing at her.
"I feel the same. I've been training hard," she said, her confidence shining through despite her occasional blush.
Sakura's gaze lingered on me, and I could sense the admiration in her eyes. "You've changed a lot, Naruto. It's like you've become even stronger."
"Thanks, Sakura." I said with a chuckle, trying to keep things light.
"You're really impressive," she replied, her voice softening as we walked.
.....
As we approached the Hokage's office, I could feel a buzz of excitement in the air.
Once we entered the office, the familiar sight of Kakashi greeted us. "Hey there," he said, his lazy demeanor a comforting presence. "Looks like you're back in action."
"Sensei!" Sakura exclaimed. Seeing him already present there.
Tsunade sat behind her desk, exuding authority and confidence. Shizune stood beside her, glancing between the three of us. As I caught her eye, I noticed a slight blush on her cheeks, a telltale sign of her embarrassment as she recalled our earlier encounter.
'I can't believe I let myself get swept up in that moment yesterday, Shizune thought, a mix of warmth and fluster filling her chest. I need to keep my composure in front of Naruto, especially now that we're all back together. !!!!!' shizune thought.
"Alright, Team Kakashi," Tsunade said, her voice commanding attention. "I have a mission for you. We need you to head to the Sand Village. They've requested assistance with a potential threat near their borders."
Sakura's eyes widened in surprise. "The Sand Village? Really?"
"Yep. It's a great opportunity for you to work together again," Tsunade replied, her tone businesslike but with a hint of encouragement.
I could feel the excitement radiating from Sakura, but I also noticed her blush deepening as she glanced my way. I had to admit, the attention was flattering and slightly overwhelming.
"Are you all ready for this?" Tsunade continued, looking at us with an expectant gaze.
"Of course! We won't let you down!" I declared, matching the determination in her gaze.
As we stepped out of the Hokage's office, the bustling sounds of Konoha surrounded us. I could feel the excitement buzzing in the air from our new mission.
"Hey," Kakashi said, casually falling into step with us. " we're leaving for the Sand Village tomorrow morning. Make sure you're both ready to go."
"Tomorrow?" Sakura said.
"Yeah," Kakashi replied, his tone as nonchalant as ever. "So make sure you rest up tonight."
"Got it, Sensei," I said,
With a nod, Kakashi sensei left, leaving Sakura and me alone once more.
After Kakashi-sensei left us to prepare for tomorrow's mission, I glanced over at Sakura. She seemed a bit lost in thought, but her faint blush and occasional glances at me didn't go unnoticed. Most women had the same reaction around me these days, but I stayed composed.
"How about we get something to eat? Ramen, maybe?" I suggested, keeping my voice steady and calm.
Sakura blinked, then smiled warmly. "Same old Naruto, huh?" she said, a hint of nostalgia in her voice.
I smiled back. "Some things never change."
We walked to Ichiraku Ramen, the familiar warmth and scent of fresh broth welcoming us as we entered. I always appreciated the simplicity of this place—comforting, without the complications of other parts of my life.
"Welcome! What can I get for you?" Teuchi-san greeted us, his eyes lighting up as he spotted me. "Naruto! Come on, sit down."
I nodded politely. "Thanks, Teuchi-san."
As we sat down, I saw Ayame-nee step out from the kitchen. Her eyes landed on me almost immediately, and a blush spread across her cheeks. She tried to hide it, but I could see the fluster in her demeanor. I offered her a calm smile, but said nothing to fluster her further.
Teuchi-san chuckled behind the counter. "The usual for you, Naruto?"
"That works." I replied simply.
"What about you, Sakura-chan? Going for your usual too?" Teuchi asked, his attention now on her.
"Yep," Sakura answered with a smile, not adding much else.
"Yosh! I'll get right to it!" Teuchi-san said with his usual enthusiasm as he started preparing our meal.
In the meantime I had small chat with Sakura and Ayame-nee and soon Teuchi-san placed our bowls of ramen in front of us. "Here you go! Enjoy!"
"Itadakimasu," I said, picking up my chopsticks and taking a bite. The taste was just as good as always. "Delicious as always, Teuchi-san."
"Glad you like it!" Teuchi-san grinned, clearly pleased with his work.
After finishing, I gave Teuchi-san a nod. "Thanks for the meal, Teuchi-san. Ayame-nee."
"Anytime, Naruto-kun!" Teuchi-san called out with a broad smile.
Ayame-nee waved shyly. "Come back again, Naruto-kun."
I returned a soft smile before heading out with Sakura.
As we stepped out of Ichiraku Ramen, Sakura turned to me, her expression shifting to a more serious tone. "I'll see you tomorrow, Naruto. Let's be careful on our mission."
"Of course, Sakura-chan. Stay safe," I replied, offering her a reassuring smile. She waved goodbye and headed down the street, her thoughts seemingly drifting back to the mission ahead.
I watched her go for a moment before turning and making my way home.
It wasn't long before I reached my house. The moment I stepped inside, I felt her presence stir, a familiar warmth surrounding me. Even though she was always with me, she liked to make her physical appearance in human form known only when we both were alone.
"Welcome home, darling," Kurumi's voice echoed softly, dripping with affection as her form materialized in front of me. Her white hair glowed faintly in the dim light, and her crimson eyes locked onto mine. She smiled sweetly, but behind that smile was the unmistakable possessiveness I had grown accustomed to.
"Thanks, Kurumi," I said, closing the door behind me. She stepped closer, her hand brushing lightly against my arm. "I grabbed some ramen with Sakura-chan after Kakashi-sensei dismissed us."
"I know," she murmured, her voice calm but with a slight edge. Of course, she knew—she was always with me, always aware of everything that happened. "Sakura-chan, hmm?" Her smile widened, but her eyes briefly narrowed, a flicker of jealousy showing.
I met her gaze evenly, remaining calm. "Just catching up with her before tomorrow's mission."
Kurumi's fingers tightened ever so slightly on my arm, but she let out a soft, almost dismissive chuckle. "As long as they remember their place," she said, her tone light, though the possessive undertone was clear. "After all, hubby... I'm your number one, right?"
"Of course," I replied smoothly, reassuring her as always. "No one could ever take that from you, Kurumi."
That seemed to satisfy her. Her smile softened, and she relaxed, though I could still see a flicker of jealousy in her eyes. She wasn't the type to overtly get in the way of my relationships with others, but she made it clear that her claim on me was absolute. If anyone tried to take too much of my time or affection, she wouldn't hesitate to show her displeasure.
But I knew how to handle her. "You're the one I always come home to, Kurumi. And you know I'd never forget that."
Kurumi's eyes glowed with satisfaction at my words. "Good," she whispered, stepping even closer. "Because I won't tolerate anyone who tries to steal my time with you." Her fingers traced lightly up my arm before wrapping around my shoulder. "You're mine, darling."
I allowed her possessive nature to settle in without resisting, knowing it was part of who she was. "You don't have to worry. You'll always have me."
She smiled, her mood brightening instantly. "I know. You're mine, after all." She leaned in slightly, her breath warm against my ear. "Forever."
As intense as she could be, I knew how to maintain the balance. Kurumi's devotion and possessiveness were part of what made her unique, and while she could be dangerous if pushed, I had no intention of letting things reach that point. I would always keep her as my number one, and as long as that remained true, she was content—jealous at times, but still content.
"I've been waiting for you all day, dear," she continued, her voice softening as her earlier edge dissipated. "Now that you're home, let's spend some time together. Just the two of us."
I smiled calmly, nodding. "Of course. I wouldn't have it any other way."
With that, Kurumi's possessiveness faded into a more gentle affection, and she led me deeper into the house, her presence both comforting and intense, as always. While she could be dangerously jealous at times, as long as I reassured her, everything remained under control.
And that's how I liked it. Balanced, calm, and under control. Then I went in my room and prepare myself for tomorrow.
[AN : Comment your views on this chapter and before you all asked why Kurumi doesn't show jealousy towards Kushina because she's confident in her position as Naruto's number one due to their unbreakable soul bond. Instead of feeling threatened, she finds amusement in teasing Naruto about his relationships with other women, especially since she knows that none can surpass her bond with him. Kurumi views Kushina as more of a playful subject than a romantic rival, understanding that Naruto's feelings for her are complex but not a threat to her place in his heart. And as clarified in the chapter she doesn't like her time with him taken away ok?, One more thing to tell you guys is that he will go back to his original world after the mission 😊]