Naruto & Aayame Friendship [2]

"So, you're telling me you completely erased someone from existence? Like, he just disappeared from the world?" Ino exclaimed as I described the technique to them.

"Yeah, it's pretty much like that. I didn't really think it was that big of a deal until I saw the looks on your faces," I replied.

"It's actually insane, Naruto. You wiped someone out of existence without breaking a sweat, and you don't even look tired after using such a destructive technique. This is more powerful than any S-Rank jutsu or even stronger techniques," Kakashi-sensei explained

"I suppose you're right," I admitted.

"How did you learn this technique?" Kakashi-sensei inquired.

"That's a secret between me and Pervy Sage. He asked me not to tell anyone, so I'm sorry," I replied.

"However you learned it, it's just so amazing!" Ino said with excitement.

"Did you really take down your enemy?" Captain Yamato asked as he, Shikamaru, Sakura, and Sai approached us.

"Yeah, it was no big deal. I think they were the weakest of all the Akatsuki members," I said, noticing everyone's expressions change. "What's wrong?" I asked.

"Nothing... I guess I shouldn't be surprised anymore when it comes to you," Kakashi-sensei said as we began making our way back to the village.

Are all the Akatsuki members really this weak? If they're even ten times stronger than that Kakuzu guy, then it doesn't seem like a big deal to worry about them... But still, considering everything they've done so far, they're a threat to everyone... except me, of course.

Anyway, they need to be stopped. If we don't take action, who knows what kind of plans they might be plotting?

No matter what, I can't afford to stop working on new techniques and improving my skills. I have to keep growing because no matter how strong I become, there's always room for improvement.

After a little while, we finally made it back to the village. Captain Yamato and Kakashi-sensei headed off to report the mission to Granny Tsunade, while the rest of us went our separate ways. I made a beeline for Ichiraku Ramen shop.

"Hey, Ayame!" I called out as I walked into the ramen shop, waving at her as she waved back.

"So, you finished another mission already?" Ayame asked, a bright smile on her face.

"Yeah, it was a really easy one. I just got back, so you know what I need after a mission," I said with a grin.

"Everyone knows that! I'll whip up the special ramen just for you!" she said enthusiastically.

"Thanks, Ayame! You always know how to make the best ramen," I said, taking a seat at the counter and watching her work her magic.

"Well, I've had plenty of practice, thanks to you," she replied with a chuckle. "So, tell me, how was the mission? Anything exciting happen?"

"Nothing too crazy," I said. "Just took down an weak opponent."

"Is this the enemy who...." She stopped

"Yeah, this is the Akatsuki member who killed Asuma-sensei" I said , as there was a moment of silence , as she restarted working again, understanding the topic is not something to Converse about now

Teuchi, Ayame's father, walked over with a smile. "Naruto, my boy! Good to see you again. I hear you've been busy saving the world as usual."

"Hey, old man! Yeah, just doing what I can," I said, grinning. "How's business?"

"Business is booming, thanks to you, coming frequently at the shop, " Teuchi said with a laugh. "But I'll leave you two to chat. I've got some supplies to stock up on. Ayame, make sure Naruto gets extra toppings on his ramen!"

"You got it, Dad!" Ayame said as Teuchi waved and headed out the back.

"So, Ayame, how have you been? Any new exciting ramen recipes you've been working on?" I asked, genuinely curious.

"Actually, yes! I've been experimenting with a spicy miso broth that I think you'll love. I'll make it for you next time," she said, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"That sounds amazing! I can't wait to try it," I said. "You always come up with the best flavors."

"Thanks, Naruto. It means a lot coming from you," she said, blushing slightly. "By the way, have you ever thought about taking a break? You know, just relaxing for a bit?"

"Relaxing? What's that?" I joked, making her laugh. "But seriously, I've thought about it. Maybe after we deal with the Akatsuki, I'll take a little vacation. Though, knowing me, I'll probably end up training even during my break."

"Well, if you ever decide to take that break, let me know. Maybe we could hang out without you worrying about missions or training," Ayame suggested, her smile warm.

"That sounds like a plan," I said, smiling back at her. "I'll definitely take you up on that."

Just then, Ayame placed a steaming bowl of ramen in front of me. "Here you go, Naruto. One special ramen, just for you."

"Thanks, Ayame. You're the best," I said, digging in eagerly.

[A. N: Thanks for reading, drop Powerstones that will help a lot and drop reviews if you like the story and add to your library]