05: Kakashi’s Challenge

The moon hung high in the night sky, casting a silver glow over the training grounds of the Haruno clan residence. The air was still, and an unusual calmness enveloped the area. In the heart of the compound, Sakura, the heiress to the Haruno clan, quietly slipped out of her room, dressed in her clan's traditional training attire.

The Haruno clan residence was a place steeped in tradition and history. Sakura had spent countless hours in these training grounds, honing her skills under the watchful eyes of her clan elders. Tonight, however, held a different purpose. The impending bell test awaited, and she felt the weight of responsibility pressing on her shoulders. The results of this test would determine whether she becomes held back to the academy or officially a Konoha ninja, and although she was fully confident in her abilities, there was no way possible for all three of Team 7 to pass when there were only two bells needed to succeed — trying to use teamwork like Kakashi had said was nearly impossible when it came to Naruto and Sasuke.

She moved with a fluid grace, her steps purposeful and silent as she navigated the familiar corridors and stepped into the designated training area, a secluded spot illuminated by softly glowing lanterns, Sakura could feel the energy of the place. The moonlit courtyard was surrounded by cherry blossom trees, their petals gently falling like nature's confetti. Sakura took a moment to appreciate the beauty of her surroundings, a brief respite before the intensity of her training began.

She positioned herself at the center of the courtyard. The soft rustling of leaves and the occasional distant chirping of crickets accompanied her solitude. Her breath was visible in the cool night air, and she focused on the task at hand.

Her training routine was a well-choreographed dance of taijutsu and ninjutsu. Her slender figure moved with precision as she executed a series of punches and kicks, each movement a testament to years of disciplined practice. The soft glow of the lanterns accentuated the fluidity of her motions, casting fleeting shadows on the ground.

Dressed in her traditional clan attire, Sakura moved gracefully through a series of taijutsu exercises, each strike deliberate and precise. Her slender form showcased the culmination of years of disciplined training. The courtyard served as her training ground, its layout etched into her memory from countless hours of practice.

The Illumigan, the unique dojutsu of the Haruno clan, remained dormant within her eyes, yet the intensity of her focus could rival any advanced ninja. Her training wasn't just about physical prowess; it was a blend of martial skill, mental fortitude, and the mastery of the techniques that defined the Haruno clan.

As she executed a sequence of punches and kicks, the chakra in them kicked up the fallen cherry blossoms on the soil, and the echo of her movements resonated through the courtyard.

Her training regime was relentless, how could it not be? The expectations placed upon the heir of the Haruno clan allowed no room for a break, and testing your limits is something that must be accomplished during training. The clan elders believed in preparing their prodigy for the challenges that awaited her, both within and beyond the village walls.

In the serene night, Sakura transitioned from taijutsu to ninjutsu, weaving hand signs with fluid precision. Elemental chakra danced at her fingertips as she honed her control over the natural forces. Each technique was a brushstroke, painting a canvas of power and finesse. She could feel her chakra swirl in her pathways.

Now, she was warming up.

"Secret Technique: Cherry Blossom Shuriken." She channeled her chakra into the surrounding cherry blossom petals. With a swift set of hand motions, she transformed them into razor-sharp shurikens imbued with chakra. The petals, now deadly projectiles, whirred through the air with precision, slicing through imaginary targets as they scattered across the courtyard. Sharply turning her body around, she harnessed the blossoms once again, this time weaving them into a protective barrier.

"...Petal Veil Barrier!" The petals formed an ephemeral shield, capable of deflecting physical and chakra-based attacks. The blossoms from before whirled around and hurled towards her, As Sakura executed the technique, the barrier shimmered like a delicate veil, she grunted slightly, fingers flaring as she pushed in more chakra into the shield. For now, she could hold up her shield for fifteen seconds, but her goal was to reach thirty. She cursed under her breath when her shield flickered, but just before the shield dispersed, the shuriken petals she had sent across the field and back had finally embedded themselves in the shield. Effectively defending herself and pushing her limits at the same time.

"Fuck…" Sakura swore and the blossoms from her jutsu had fallen to the ground.

"As the clan heir, you must master your chakra to its fullest!"

"There is no room for breaks, improvements must be consistent!"

She grits her teeth, and in a dynamic display of agility and finesse, Sakura propels herself into the air. Manipulating the cherry blossoms around her, she created a swirling vortex of petals that enveloped her like a cyclone. Within this natural whirlwind, she became a fleeting blur, combining evasion with the potential to strike at a moment's notice.

As she neared the culmination of her training, she executed Nature's Bloom – a technique that showcased her ability to infuse chakra into the very essence of the cherry blossoms. The petals glowed with an enchanting radiance as they dispersed into the night, releasing a soothing aura.

The clock ticked towards 3 am, the designated time for the bell test. She intensified her training, pushing herself to the limits. Sweat glistened on her forehead, yet her focus remained unwavering. She envisioned the scenarios she might face during the test, mentally preparing for the challenges ahead.

As the final minutes approached, she came to a poised halt. Her breathing steadied, and she closed her eyes, centering herself for the imminent test. The moon bathed her in its silvery glow, and Sakura, with a sense of calm resolve, felt ready to face whatever challenges awaited her under the watchful eye of her new sensei.

The sun hadn't even risen in the sky yet, and yet the streets buzzed with activity. Amidst the lively atmosphere, three figures made their way toward the designated meeting spot for their team assignment.

The Forest of Death.

Naruto Uzumaki swaggered confidently, his trademark grin plastered on his face as he led the way, exuding an air of boisterous energy. Sasuke Uchiha trailed behind, his expression stoic and unreadable, his dark eyes scanning the surroundings with a hint of vigilance. Sakura Haruno walked beside him, her posture straight and composed, her emerald eyes sharp and observant.

The blonde, walking at the front with a swagger in his step, couldn't resist the urge to break the silence. "So, what do you think awaits us in there, huh?" He remarked, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Killer beasts? Traps? Or maybe even some real action for once?"

Sasuke stared at him with a stoic expression and responded with a hint of sarcasm. "Knowing Kakashi so far... it'll probably be all of the above," he muttered, his voice dripping with cynicism as he stared ahead. "But I'm not here to play games. I'm here to prove myself as the strongest."

"Just don't get in my way. I don't need any distractions. We're here to get those bells, nothing else."

Naruto shot back, "Distractions? Look who's talking, Mr. Lone Wolf. You'll be the one holding us back."

Sakura intervened, attempting to diffuse the building tension. "Enough, both of you. We're a team, whether we like it or not— we need to focus and get those bells. Kakashi-sensei is waiting."

Now trailing slightly behind them with a focused demeanor, Sakura spoke with a note of caution. "Let's not underestimate the dangers of this place," she warned, her tone serious and authoritative. "We must stay vigilant and work together if we want to pass."

Naruto scoffed at her words, his confidence unwavering. "Relax, Sakura. We've got each other's backs, right?" he said, flashing a grin over his shoulder. "Besides, with our skills, we'll breeze through this test in no time."

Sasuke remained silent, but his piercing gaze spoke volumes. He had no intention of relying on anyone but himself, determined to emerge from this trial unscathed and victorious. Sakura only shook her head in response.

As they approached the forest, a sense of unease settled over them, and soon, the sound of shoes crunching against the dirt paused.

The tall trees loomed before them, their dark silhouettes blending seamlessly with the night sky. The air was thick with an unsettling stillness, broken only by the occasional rustle of leaves and the distant hooting of an owl. The moonlight struggled to penetrate the dense canopy, casting eerie shadows on the uneven ground. Naruto, being his usual self, snickered nervously as he took a step towards the tall, metal gates that were secured around the perimeter of the forest.

The gates creaked ominously as he pushed them open, revealing a narrow path that disappeared into the darkness beyond. Despite his bravado, Naruto couldn't help but feel a shiver run down his spine as he stepped into the forest, unsure of what dangers lay ahead.

"Ooooh, scary…" He snorted, his voice tinged with a hint of mock fear, though the uncertainty in his eyes betrayed his facade. Sasuke, walking beside him, remained silent and stoic as ever, his dark eyes scanning their surroundings with a cautious intensity. He made no effort to hide his wariness, his keen instincts alert to the slightest hint of danger.

Sakura observed her teammates with a mix of amusement and apprehension. Naruto's bravado was as transparent as ever, a thinly veiled attempt to mask his unease. She couldn't help but roll her eyes at his antics, though a small part of her admired his resilience in the face of fear. Sasuke, on the other hand, exuded an aura of silent determination, his focused demeanor a stark contrast to Naruto's bluster.

With a determined breath, she stepped through the gates, the metal groaning behind her as they swung shut. The forest embraced them with an almost suffocating intensity, the air thick with an unspoken challenge. The trio proceeded cautiously, each step echoing in the eerie quiet.

As they ventured deeper into the forest, the oppressive darkness seemed to close in around them, enveloping them in its chilling embrace. The eerie silence was broken only by the soft crunch of leaves beneath their feet and the occasional rustle of unseen creatures lurking in the shadows.

Sakura's senses were on high alert, every rustle and whisper setting her nerves on edge. She couldn't shake the feeling of being watched, as if unseen eyes followed their every move from the shadows. Despite her apprehension, she remained steadfast, her determination unwavering as they pressed on.

Ahead, the path forked into two diverging trails, each disappearing into the murky depths of the forest. Sakura paused, her brow furrowing in contemplation as she weighed their options. Behind her, Naruto's nervous laughter had tapered off into an uneasy silence, his bravado faltering in the face of the looming darkness.

Sasuke's voice cut through the silence like a blade, his words clipped and decisive. "We'll split up," he declared, his dark eyes flickering with a steely resolve. "We'll cover more ground that way. Sakura, you take the left path. Naruto, you're with me on the right."

Hearing her name, the girl in question eyed the diverging paths ahead, her gaze shifting between the left and right trails. A subtle frown creased her forehead as the unsettling stillness of the forest pressed in on her.

"I don't think splitting up is a good idea," she voiced concern, her tone carrying a measured caution. "We don't know what's in there, and going alone might be risky."

Sakura's emerald eyes flickered between her teammates, a stubborn resolve settling into her features. "I get your logic, but teamwork is crucial. We're stronger together. If one of us encounters trouble, we can't help if we're separated."

But Sasuke interrupted her, his gaze unwavering. He shot her a stern glance. His dark and penetrating eyes held a hint of impatience. "We need to cover more ground. It's the most efficient way to find Kakashi-sensei and pass this test," he retorted, his voice clipped and decisive.

Naruto, ever the wildcard, chimed in, "Yeah, yeah! Sasuke's right. We'll find Kakashi-sensei faster this way. What's the worst that can happen?"

Sakura crossed her arms, her eyes narrowing in determination. "The worst that can happen is that we get picked off one by one. We don't know what's in here, and we should stay together to–"

Sasuke, now growing impatient, cut her off. "Stop overthinking it, Sakura. We're not here to hold hands. I can handle myself, and so can you. We'll meet back here in an hour."

She felt a surge of frustration. She wasn't about to let his stubbornness jeopardize their safety.

"Sasuke, teamwork is crucial in situations like this. We should–"

His expression remained unyielding. "Teamwork won't matter if we don't find him in time. We need to act fast."

Everyone went silent, and a not-so-subtle tension settled between Sakura and Sasuke, Naruto's eyes darted between the two curiously, sensing the brewing disagreement.

"...We can cover more ground and stick together," She proposed, her tone firm. "We'll take different paths but stay within shouting distance. That way, if any of us needs help, the others can respond."

The Uchiha's dark eyes narrowed, his resistance evident. "This is a waste of time. We're not here to babysit each other."

Sakura's patience waned as she met Sasuke's unwavering gaze. "And we're not here to fail, either," she shot back, her voice edged with frustration. "If we split up and something happens, we'll be at a disadvantage. We need to work together if we want to pass this test."

Naruto came between them, somewhat irritated with the back-to-back arguing. "Come on, guys," he interjected, attempting to diffuse the tension. "Let's just stick together and we can cover as much ground as we can at the same time. It's not worth risking our stamina just to find Kakashi-sensei a few minutes faster."

'Hmph, him being a voice of reason is rare.' Sakura nodded in agreement, grateful for Naruto's support. "Exactly," she affirmed, shooting Sasuke a pointed look. "We're stronger as a team. Let's not make this harder than it needs to be."

The Uchiha's expression remained stoic, though a flicker of uncertainty crossed his features. He seemed torn between his desire for efficiency and his begrudging acknowledgment of Sakura's logic. After a moment of tense silence, he relented with a begrudging nod. "Fine," he conceded, his voice tight with reluctance. "But if we don't find him soon, we're splitting up."

Sakura resisted the urge to roll her eyes, knowing she had won a small victory in convincing Sasuke to prioritize teamwork, even if only temporarily. With a nod of agreement, she gestured for them to follow her down the left path.

She led the way down the left path, her steps purposeful and determined. The Forest of Death lived up to its ominous reputation, the shadows cast by the thick canopy creating an eerie atmosphere. The crunch of leaves underfoot was the only sound that accompanied them as they ventured deeper into the unknown.

As the trio moved forward, Sakura still couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. The oppressive silence of the forest pressed in on them, and her instincts told her that danger lurked in the darkness. However, she remained focused on her objective – getting that bell.

Naruto walked by her side, occasionally stealing glances at Sasuke, who trailed a few steps behind. The tension between them was palpable, and Sakura could sense the underlying distrust that lingered beneath the surface. Despite her attempts to foster teamwork, the distance between her teammates persisted.

After a while, Sakura decided to take the initiative. "Alright, here's the plan," she announced, her voice cutting through the ambiance. "We need to approach this strategically if we want to find Kakashi-sensei and get those bells. Naruto, you're fast and agile. I want you to scout ahead and look for any signs of our sensei. Report back if you find anything."

He grunted in acknowledgment, a half-smile playing on his lips. It seemed he was eager to showcase his abilities and prove his worth. Without waiting for further instructions, he leaped onto a tree branch and darted ahead, disappearing into the foliage with surprising swiftness.

Sasuke, however, remained impassive, his arms folded across his chest. "What's the point of this plan?" he questioned, a hint of skepticism in his voice. "If Naruto finds Kakashi-sensei, he'll just take the glory for himself."

Sakura sighed inwardly, realizing that gaining his trust would be an ongoing challenge. "Sasuke, we need to work together. Naruto might be impulsive, but we can't afford to let personal competition get in the way. Our goal is to pass this test as a team. Besides, if Naruto finds Kakashi-sensei, it's still a win for us."

His expression remained blank as they jumped onto their respective branches and made their way forward, but Sakura could sense a begrudging acknowledgment in his eyes, she ignored him and instead went to her thoughts.

'This isn't going to work, even if I team up with these two, grabbing these bells is going to be near impossible without perfect communication.' She sidely glanced at the Uchiha who was surveying the area around them as the surroundings flew by from their speed. 'Sasuke is skilled, but his impatience is hindering my progress.'

'If he continues to do this, then…' Sakura shook her head and quickly dismissed the stupid thought. 'No, there is no continuing. He had his chances to redeem himself and he failed them both. My plan is going to have to fit me and Naruto only if I want to succeed.'

She stared off ahead, she could still see Naruto's moonlight-dulled orange jumper in the distance.

'He may lack subtlety, but he's loyal and dependable in his own way,' she mused silently. 'If I can manipulate the situation to ensure that he and I are the ones to grab the bells, we might just have a chance.'

With her decision made, Sakura subtly altered her path, positioning herself closer to Naruto as they navigated through the dense foliage. She kept her movements calculated and precise, her mind focused solely on the task at hand. Naruto seemed oblivious to her intentions, his attention consumed by the thrill of the chase.

Finally, they reached a clearing where Kakashi-sensei awaited, bells dangling ominously from his belt. "Oh?" His eye rose from his book and he gave the team racing towards him an eye smile. "I guess you found me. Now, let's see if you can grab the bells from me."

Sakura seized the moment, her mind calculating the precise timing for her plan to unfold. She quickly positioned herself beside Naruto, allowing her to exploit the inherent trust he seemed to have in her. Sasuke saw her dash from his side and scoffed with furrowed brows, without a word increased his speed towards Kakashi.

"Naruto!"

"Got it!"

Without a word more, Sakura and Naruto synchronized their movements, moving with a fluidity that belied their true intentions. In a coordinated effort, they lunged for the bells, their movements calculated and efficient. Sasuke, caught off guard by the sudden acceleration, attempted to react, but Sakura's speed and precision outmatched his own.

The tension in the air snapped like a taut wire, and with a swift movement, Kakashi vanished and reappeared right in front of the Uzumaki. Naruto, quick to react, lunged forward with a barrage of punches. His movements were fast, but Kakashi effortlessly sidestepped, reappearing behind Naruto in an instant. Sakura, calculating her timing, stepped forward.

"Naruto, stay focused!" she called out, her voice cool and commanding. Naruto, undeterred, pivoted to face Kakashi again. The sensei, still shrouded in mystery, seemed to be everywhere and nowhere at once.

With a burst of speed, Naruto unleashed a series of swift kicks. Kakashi dodged each one effortlessly, his movements almost nonchalant. Sakura observed, analyzing his patterns, searching for an opening. The dance between student and teacher continued, the forest bearing witness to their intricate taijutsu.

'There!'

She decided to make her move. Channeling her clan's rigorous training, she closed the distance with calculated grace. Kakashi, sensing her approach, shifted his focus, turning sharply to land a kick on Naruto's chest and sending him flying towards a nearby tree.

Sakura's eyes widened before she realized the boy had softened the blow with a clone, and was now regathering his breath. But she hardly had any time to worry about his well-being as Kakashi threw himself at her, it seemed he purposely allowed himself to be on the defense, as her strikes were precise, each blow aimed with deadly accuracy yet he effortlessly countered, deflecting her attacks with minimal effort.

Naruto, undeterred, launched himself into the fray once more. His punches were fueled by determination, but Kakashi remained a slippery target. The forest echoed with the clash of blows and the rustling of leaves.

As Sakura and Naruto synchronized their movements, a plan began to form. Sakura's eyes flickered with a silent understanding, and Naruto picked up on the unspoken cue. Kakashi, ever perceptive, observed their evolving strategy.

Naruto feigned a direct assault, drawing Kakashi's attention. As their sensei focused on evading Naruto's relentless attacks, Sakura seized the opportunity. With a swift maneuver, she closed in, her fists a blur of motion. Kakashi got caught off guard and struggled to deflect her relentless onslaught.

Naruto's unpredictable nature became the wildcard. As Kakashi momentarily grappled with Sakura's barrage, Naruto unleashed a surprise attack from an unexpected angle. The sensei, momentarily off balance, found himself in the crossfire.

Noticing this, Sakura subtly shifted her focus. With a series of hand seals, she activated her clan's unique technique, the Cherry Blossom Shuriken Technique. In an instant, ordinary shurikens transformed into a flurry of delicate cherry blossom petals, each one razor-sharp and deadly.

The forest air filled with the gentle yet ominous flutter of cherry blossoms. Kakashi, momentarily distracted by the visual spectacle, found himself confronted with an unexpected threat. Sakura seized the opportunity to transition seamlessly from taijutsu to ninjutsu.

"Naruto, follow my lead!" she commanded, her voice carrying a rare note of urgency. Naruto nodded in acknowledgment. With precise coordination, Sakura unleashed a barrage of petal-shaped blades. Kakashi was forced on the defensive, weaving through the air with an almost uncanny agility. The cherry blossoms trailed him like a storm, closing off escape routes and restricting his movements.

Naruto, catching onto Sakura's strategy, infused his clones with chakra. A squadron of shadow clones materialized, each wielding its own set of blossom-laden shurikens. The forest became a surreal battlefield, with petals swirling in a deadly dance.

Realizing the evolving threat, Kakashi countered with his own repertoire of jutsu. Substituting himself with a log, he reappeared at a distance, assessing the situation. The air crackled with the tension of impending conflict, and Sakura's eyes remained stoic, betraying no emotion.

As Kakashi launched a volley of kunai, the majority of the boy's shadow clones poofed into thin air, forcing Sakura and Naruto to adapt their strategy. Using her chakra control, Sakura maneuvered the cherry blossom shurikens with unparalleled precision. Naruto, relying on his speed, darted through the barrage, closing the distance with Kakashi.

The battlefield became a mesmerizing clash of petals, kunai, and swirling leaves. Sakura and Naruto, now in sync, pressed the offensive. Kakashi, a seasoned strategist, responded with a blend of agility and well-timed jutsu.

'Now I know I made the right choice in choosing to team with him.' Sakura and Naruto exchanged silent glances. The unspoken understanding between them fueled their determination. Her cherry blossom shurikens continued to envelop Kakashi, limiting his options.

Naruto, seizing the opportunity, unleashed a new barrage of shadow clones. Each clone, armed with kunai, multiplied the threat. Kakashi, caught in the crossfire, focused on evasion.

However, as the intensity of the fight reached its peak, Naruto's gaze flickered with a subtle shift. With Sakura too engrossed in maintaining the onslaught of cherry blossom shurikens, she failed to notice the change in her teammate's demeanor.

With a swift and calculated motion, Naruto seized the opportunity to act.

In a sudden blur of movement, he broke away from the coordinated assault, his actions betraying the unspoken teamwork that had defined their strategy moments before. Ignoring Sakura's bewildered glance, he darted towards Kakashi with single-minded determination.

'Shit!' Sakura's stoic facade faltered for a fraction of a second as she realized Naruto's betrayal. Her emerald eyes narrowed, but she remained composed, her focus unwavering. Despite the sellout, she continued to manipulate the cherry blossom shurikens, ensuring Kakashi remained occupied.

Naruto, fueled by his desire to prove himself, reached for one of the bells hanging from Kakashi's waist. With a triumphant grin, he snatched it away, his actions signaling his disregard for the team's original plan.

The forest echoed with the jingle of the bell. Sakura's eyes narrowed darkly and her eyebrows tensed. There was still one bell left, if she could just get Kakashi off balance, even just for a few seconds, she could manage to grab one.

Sasuke, observing the unfolding betrayal from a distance, remained silent and calculating. His dark eyes followed Naruto's movements with a cold detachment, his intentions shrouded in secrecy. As Naruto reveled in his victory, Sasuke seized the opportunity to make his move.

With silent precision, Sasuke closed in on Kakashi, his movements masked by the chaos of the battlefield. She now focused on increasing the intensity of the onslaught of cherry blossom shurikens, failed to notice Sasuke's approach until it was too late.

"Oh?" Kakashi hums, seeing a black figure move low to his side. In a swift and decisive motion, the Uchiha reached for the second bell, his fingers brushing against the cold metal. With a flicker of movement, he liberated the bell from Kakashi's waist, his actions mirroring Naruto's betrayal moments before.

Sakura's eyes widened in disbelief as she saw the bell in Sasuke's palm unfold and jingle from gravity before her. Despite her emotions, she maintained her composure, her mind racing with strategies to reclaim control of the situation.

Sasuke, retrieving the bells effortlessly, shot the two of them a stern look. "Teamwork, remember?" He chided, his voice laced with a hint of superiority.

No way.

No fucking way.

The Haruno released her jutsu, and the cherry blossom-shaped shurikens loosened and fell to the ground. As the echoes of Naruto's triumphant jingle and Sasuke's silent conquest filled the forest, an uneasy silence settled over the team. Kakashi, unfazed by the turn of events, observed the trio with his customary calm demeanor. His lone visible eye crinkled at the corners, a subtle sign of amusement at the unforeseen developments.

Holding the bell aloft with a cocky grin, Naruto reveled in the thrill of his victory. Sasuke, standing beside him, mirrored Naruto's expression with only a small smirk, the second bell clasped in his hand. The forest seemed to hold its breath, the tension thick in the air.

Sakura, breaking the silence, spoke with an air of detachment. "Well, it seems we all had our own plans." Her voice carried a hint of irony, she turned her gaze toward Naruto, her expression revealing a glimmer of disappointment masked by her usual emotionless facade.

Naruto, reveling in the thrill of victory, responded with a nonchalant shrug. "Hey, it's every ninja for themselves, right? I just did what I had to do to pass."

The Uchiha, who had remained silent throughout the exchange, finally spoke with a measured tone. "Teamwork was the plan, but it seems everyone had their interpretation of it. In the end, I got what I wanted."

The tension between the three teammates hung heavy in the air, each grappling with their own conflicting emotions and motivations. Sakura's betrayal of Sasuke, intending to secure her success with Naruto, had backfired spectacularly, leaving her isolated and vulnerable.

Kakashi, ever the enigmatic observer, broke the silence with a nonchalant chuckle, giving them a well-known eye smile with amusement. "Well, well, it seems Team 7's dynamics are as unpredictable as ever," he remarked, his tone tinged with amusement. "I must say, I didn't expect such... creative interpretations of teamwork."

"Impressive. You both managed to take a bell each. A surprising outcome, but not entirely unexpected." He observed his students with a knowing gaze, acknowledging the unforeseen dynamics at play.

"Congratulations, Naruto, Sasuke," He remarked, his tone unreadable. "You've proven yourselves capable of seizing opportunities. However, success in a team requires more than individual victories. Let's see if you can work together in the future."

Sasuke's gaze flickered towards Naruto, a silent acknowledgment of their shared victory but a clear indication that their alliance was a temporary one. Oblivious to the unspoken tensions, the boy in question flashed a confident grin.

Kakashi's eye crinkled in a sarcastic smile, she could sense the disappointment radiating from him. "Let's regroup and discuss what we've learned here. This test was about more than just bells; it was about understanding each other's strengths and weaknesses." With that, he motioned for Team 7 to follow him, leaving the echoes of the betrayed alliances to linger in the forest.

He led the team out of the deeper parts of the forest and to an abandoned training ground, a sense of discontent lingered in the air. The completed bell test had left its mark on the team, and now, Kakashi had another lesson to impart. Arriving at the familiar training ground, the older man surveyed his students with his single visible eye, his expression unreadable behind the mask.

"Sakura," he addressed her with a calm but stern tone, "Considering the turn of events during the test, I believe there's a need for a special lesson for you." The gravity in Kakashi's words drew everyone's attention. Naruto and Sasuke exchanged glances, curious about the nature of Sakura's impending lesson.

Without wasting any time, Kakashi produced a length of sturdy rope from his pouch, and Sakura's eyes flickered with understanding. She maintained her facade, accepting the situation with silent resignation. Kakashi skillfully tied her to the training log, securing the ropes with practiced efficiency.

"Sakura, your actions during the test demonstrated a lack of trust and cooperation," He explained, his gaze unwavering. "To drive home the importance of teamwork, you'll remain tied to this log until further notice. Naruto, Sasuke, you are not to feed her, if you do, you'll be sent back to the academy regardless if you pass the bell test."

Naruto's eyes widened, a mix of confusion and concern flashing across his face and Sasuke observed the situation with a hint of detachment. Sakura, now bound to the log, met Kakashi's gaze with a bitten bottom lip, and despite her frustration, she understood the consequences of her actions.

She took a reckless gamble and failed. That's all on her.

As Team 7 settled into an uneasy silence, Kakashi retreated to a distance, and despite not being in her sight, Sakura could tell he was keeping a watchful eye on them.

She closed her eyes and counted up to thirty.

Three… Five… Ten… Thirteen…

"Don't disappoint your clan!" Seventeen…

Twenty… Twenty-two…

"The future of our clan lies in your hands– as the heir of the Haruno!"

Twenty-five… Twenty-nine…

…Thirty.

For some reason, it felt as if there was a lump in her throat. Apprehensively, Sakura opened her eyes.

Damn…

She felt a draining pit in her stomach, giving her an irritating burning sensation in her gut, and the ropes tied tightly around her torso didn't help the nausea that followed the painful growls of her stomach. She had forgotten to eat before she left her house. Naruto spared a sideway glance at Sakura, seeing her furrowed brows, and having heard the growl coming from her stomach.

Was he foolish to consider whether to share his food or not? Maybe.

Despite his own recent betrayal, he couldn't entirely dismiss the practical advantage of having a teammate like her. His primary motivation was clear – he needed her strength to achieve his own goals.

"Here," Naruto finally said, holding a small packet of food towards her. "You're still a part of the team, at least for now. I can't get stronger without you, and this test is far from over."

'Huh.' Sakura inwardly scoffed at the irony.

'He says that, and yet he backstabbed me knowing I had made my plan suited for us two.'

She wanted to decline his offering, but her stomach growled again and she knew that vomiting nothing but stomach acid later on would no doubt bite her in the ass. Her eyes drew up to his face, it was obvious he didn't want to do it either, knowing him, doing this was probably embarrassing for him. "...Well," she quips, "I can't eat with my hands tied."

Naruto was silent for a while as if he was regretting ever thinking about offering before he let out a short, aggravated sigh. "This is the first, and last time I'll do something like this for you." He broke off a piece of his ration and held it in front of her lips.

"Oh," Sakura scoffed apathetically, "You don't even have to worry about that." She took the ration from his fingers and chewed on the granola, the boy snorted. Sasuke, on the other hand, maintained a more distant approach. He sat apart from Naruto, silently surveying the scene. His distrustful interactions were evident in the guarded look he cast at Sakura.

"I don't trust her," Sasuke muttered, his tone low and filled with resentment. "And I don't trust you either, Naruto. Betrayal runs deep, and I can't afford to let my guard down."

Naruto bristled at the accusation, his competitive edge kicking in. "Hey, I had my reasons," he retorted defensively. "But Sakura... I don't know what she was thinking."

"I don't care about her either," he then added on, glancing at Sakura, who remained stoically tied to the log. "But if working with her helps me get stronger, then I'll take that chance. Trust or no trust, I'm not missing an opportunity to improve."

Sasuke's eyes narrowed, an unsettling gleam betraying his lingering suspicion. "You're naïve, Naruto. Strength comes from self-reliance, not relying on others."

The Uzumaki chuckled, a sly grin playing on his lips. "Strength comes from whatever gets you results. If using someone else's skills gives me an edge, why not?"

Sasuke's lips tightened into a thin line, his distrust radiating in the air. He glanced at Sakura, who met his gaze with a cool, emotionless stare. The flickering flames cast shadows on the trees around them as the two boys silently weighed their options.

When Sasuke didn't say anything in response, he turned back to his food and simply shrugged, unfazed by his distrust. "…Suit yourself," he replied, biting into ration with a careless demeanor. "But honestly… I couldn't care less what her intentions were. I'll use whatever advantage I can get." His eyes flickered to Sakura for a split second before he closed his eyes.

"… I am not sure how I should feel about someone talking about using me right in front of me." Sakura blinked owlishly at the boy, and he only grinned cheekily.

"Would you prefer if I talked about it behind your back?"

"No."

He smirks. "Then don't think about it too much."

Sasuke's eyes lingered on Naruto, his skepticism battling with the subtle influence of the lone wolf's persuasive words. Naruto, unfazed by Sasuke's distrust, continued eating with a nonchalant air, emphasizing his commitment to utilizing any advantage to get stronger.

As the moonlight danced on Sasuke's face, a flicker of contemplation crossed his features. The rational side of him argued against trust, against forming connections that could be exploited. Yet, Naruto's words echoed in his mind, stirring a conflict between self-reliance and the undeniable lure of strength.

"Strength comes from whatever gets you results. If using someone else's skills gives me an edge, why not?" Naruto's earlier words were replayed in his thoughts.

The Uchiha's eyes shifted to Sakura, still bound to the log, her expression unreadable. The image of her betrayal lingered, but Naruto's logic tugged at a different chord. The realization that, at this moment, their goals aligned—albeit temporarily—began to sway his decision.

A sigh escaped Sasuke's lips, a concession to the circumstances they found themselves in. He reached for a ration pack and glanced at Naruto with a measured gaze. "I don't trust her, and I don't trust you, but if strength is the goal, then I'll play your game."

Naruto smirked, his competitive edge savoring the small victory. "That's the spirit, Sasuke. We'll get stronger together, whatever it takes."

Sasuke's expression remained guarded, but a subtle acknowledgment of their tentative alliance lingered in his eyes. With a calculated move, he tore open a ration pack and held the piece to Sakura's lips, who honestly didn't care about their words of using her for her strength. Who said she can't use them, either?

"If we're using each other, we might as well use her too," Sasuke muttered, a pragmatic acceptance underscoring his decision. She bit off the ration with an understanding hum, all she wanted was the nausea she felt to go away.

But suddenly, it felt as if the air shifted, weighted by the murderous intent of chakra. Both Naruto and Sasuke rose to their feet alertly, looking for the source of the chakra while Sakura cut the ropes around her waist by sneaking her fingers into her right thigh kunai pouch.

"T-The fuck is that!"

"You don't think it's Kakashi?!"

"No shit! Who else would it be!"

Suddenly, Kakashi appeared before them in a blur, his chakra radiating a foreboding pressure. His eyes, normally concealed behind his mask, glinted dangerously. The atmosphere thickened with an almost tangible weight as Team 7 braced themselves for an impending outburst.

"What do you think you're doing?" Kakashi's voice boomed, laced with feigned anger as he glared at the trio. The tension in the air escalated, and Naruto and Sasuke involuntarily took a step back, unsure of what had triggered their sensei's wrath.

Sakura, maintaining her emotionless facade, tilted her head subtly, observing Kakashi's theatrical display with a calm demeanor. Despite the apparent danger, she remained composed, her eyes narrowing slightly in scrutiny.

The air was filled with uncertainty as Kakashi continued his display of anger, his tone sharp and accusatory. "Feeding her? Do you think this is some kind of picnic? You were explicitly told not to help her!"

Naruto and Sasuke exchanged uneasy glances, their minds racing to comprehend the sudden turn of events. Sakura, however, continued to watch Kakashi intently, her strategic mind assessing the situation.

Naruto's heart raced, his mind scrambling to come up with a response. "But, Kakashi-sensei, we–"

Sasuke cut him off, his voice firm and unwavering. "We decided to feed her, regardless of your orders. She's still our teammate, no matter what."

"You won't do it," Sakura spoke suddenly, the two boys around her stared at her incredulously. "Having all three of us fail isn't possible now."

"Sakura," Naruto snapped at her, "What the fuck are you talking about?"

But then, with a swift change in tone and demeanor, Kakashi's eye crinkled at the corners, a hidden amusement glinting behind his now seemingly dimming anger. "Is that so?" he mused, his tone laced with a hint of mischief. "Well, I guess that shows some level of teamwork after all." He feigned exasperation. "You're not as hopeless as I thought."

Naruto's eyes widened in disbelief, his mind struggling to process Kakashi's sudden change in demeanor. "Wait, so... we passed?"

The older man nodded, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips. "Congratulations, Team 7. You've all shown significant progress today, both in combat and in teamwork. Consider the bell test passed."

Relief washed over Team 7, mingling with a sense of triumph as the weight of Kakashi's approval settled over them. Sakura's expression remained unreadable, her mask of indifference betraying none of the emotions churning beneath the surface. Naruto grinned ear to ear, unable to contain his excitement, while Sasuke allowed himself a small, satisfied smirk, acknowledging their success with a nod of his head.

Kakashi's eye crinkled further as he observed their reactions, a sense of pride swelling within him. "Well done, Team 7," he praised, his voice softening. "But remember, this is just the beginning. Teamwork, trust, and feeding your comrades – are essential ninja skills." He chuckled, the sound muffled by his mask.

Sakura's impassive demeanor remained unchanged, but there was a subtle relief that flickered in her eyes that was nearly impossible to go unnoticed. Naruto flashed a triumphant grin, and his competitive spirit ignited. Sasuke, though maintaining a composed exterior, couldn't fully conceal a hint of satisfaction at their unexpected success.

With a dismissive wave, Kakashi signaled the end of the test. "Go get some rest. Tomorrow's a new day, and we have a lot of work ahead of us."

As Team 7 left the clearing, the twilight swallowed their figures, leaving Kakashi alone by the dwindling fire. The forest whispered with a sense of accomplishment and the promise of challenges yet to come. Kakashi's eye crinkled with amusement as he watched the retreating silhouettes of his students. The test had served its purpose – albeit the twists and turns during the event that took place were completely unexpected.

Maybe this team wouldn't be as bad as he thought, after all.