The Annals of Astra M.

Fanfic Author Notes - Overflow

2009-01-20T02:15:03Z

***FanFic Vital Stats***

Title: Overflow
Fandom: Naruto
Pairing: Shikamaru x Ino
Other Characters: Asuma, Choji
Format: One-shot
Genre: Romance, Humor
Rating: PG, mild language
Warnings: spoilers for manga chapter 328, 30Kisses Theme
Tag Line: Just like that, the world she knew was overturned: Team Ino was no more.

***FanFic History***

This was originally conceived quite a while back when I was making chapter outlines for my fanfic, Unparalleled Teamwork. At the time, I thought the story would cover the timeframe through the Sasuke retrieval arc. But I've since revised it to end at the Chuunin exams, so this scene had to be cut out. But I still wanted to write it, and as a result it became another one-shot for my Scent of Grass and Flowers collection.

[Fanfic][Naruto] Overflow

2009-01-20T02:09:38Z

Naruto Fanfic – “Overflow”
Written January 2009 by Astra M.
----------

Ino stood at attention with hands folded behind her back, her stance correct as always, yet with her head bowed down in an uncharacteristically demure manner. To her left stood Choji, who was likewise atypically quiet with no chip bag in sight. And to her right slouched Shikamaru, obsessively rubbing his nose, his posture as carelessly lazy as ever. But it wasn’t this lamentable habit or the unusual fidgeting that drew her attention. It was something else.

Today he was standing somewhat apart.

She tried not to think about that, instead focusing her attention on what Asuma was saying:

“Congratulations, everyone. You all did very well during the exams, especially during the second test - your teamwork there was phenomenal. But in the end it was you, Shikamaru, who really came out on top of everyone. Good work!”

Ino blinked at the ground, trying to process the strange feeling that had come over her that morning. It didn’t seem real. Asuma was complimenting Shikamaru - her teammate Shikamaru, that lazy, whining, good-for-nothing slacker; that guy who screwed up almost as much as Choji did on all of their early missions - for his unbelievable performance during the Chuunin Exams. Barely over a month ago she wouldn’t have believed any of this possible.

If she hadn’t seen it all firsthand, that is.

The bizarre sensation increased. Feeling awkward, Ino hazarded a glance in Shikamaru’s direction. He was rubbing his nose again, appearing distinctly abashed at the unusual praise and averting his eyes from her and Choji. Ino looked back down again, her gaze now falling on her shadow. Impulsively she glanced over at Shikamaru’s and felt the weirdness intensifying. Even that seemed taller somehow.

Asuma was still talking:

“You’re the only one who became a chuunin during this year’s exams. As your Jounin-sensei, I’m very proud of you.” Grinning at Shikamaru with obvious pride, he turned to address the other two. “Ino, Chouji, all that’s left is you two. Do your best!”

Just like that, the world she knew was overturned: Team Ino was no more. Rather it would now be Team Shikamaru, since by outranking her he would be in charge after Asuma - whether he wanted it or not. And as for her...

How do I feel about that?

Ino sighed. To be certain she hadn’t been overly excited at the news - it was shocking enough that Shikamaru had made chuunin at all, much less before she did - yet her overall reaction was more subdued than she’d expected. She didn’t feel the way she would have had it been Sakura. Perhaps, too, she had already sensed the oncoming sea change during their ordeal in the Forest of Death, or perhaps it had been during Shikamaru’s tournament battle, but she couldn’t fault the judges’ decision. And she didn’t feel resentment at her teammate so much as disappointment in herself: she’d wanted to become a chuunin, too. She was just going to have to work harder so that she’d be ready the next time around. But as for Shikamaru himself... well, if she was being totally honest with herself, she had to admit that she was actually kind of... proud of the guy. Even if the shameless slacker did throw a fight out of sheer laziness!

Still, none of this changed the surreality of the situation - or the inexplicable feeling that was steadily building in her heart.

Realizing that she was still staring at the ground, Ino suddenly frowned. What is going on with me? she wondered. Why am I acting so awkward about all this? This isn’t like me! Though she couldn’t fathom the reason for her unnatural shyness, she was determined to brave her way through it - after all, this was just Shikamaru, and she really didn’t bear him any ill-will. I suppose I ought to say something congratulatory to him, at least...

“Well, gang, what do you say?” broke in Asuma’s voice, pulling Ino back from her thoughts. “Who’s up for going to the Yakini-Q to celebrate Shikamaru’s victory?”

“All right!” whooped Choji, who immediately came to life. “I’m up for that! Great job, Shikamaru!”

“Tch. I didn’t do it just so you could score a free meal,” muttered Shikamaru, who sounded a bit discomfited.

“Just try not to forget that it’s Shikamaru’s meal, eh, Choji?” said Asuma amiably. “And are you coming too, Ino?”

Taking that as a cue, she quickly looked up. “Of course I am, Asuma-sensei! And, um, Shikamaru...”

Ino’s voice trailed off as she took in Shikamaru’s appearance for the second time. When she’d first seen him that morning skulking behind in Asuma’s shadow, she hadn’t much time to really examine him before their sensei had called them to attention. But now that he was in the open, the drab green vest stood out vividly against the blue sky, framing her teammate’s wiry form. Ino gulped unconsciously. There was something about the casual way Shikamaru stood, with hands jammed into his pants pockets and head tilted back like he couldn’t be ruffled about anything in the world...

Instantly the mysterious feeling in Ino’s gut rushed up at her, leaving her feeling light-headed. Maybe it’s because I lost all that hair during the exams, she thought mindlessly as she stared back at Shikamaru. There was something strangely mesmerizing about the vest - it made him look so different. For a horrifying moment, she thought she might actually blush.

Whoa. He actually looks... kind of cool.

She suddenly realized that Shikamaru was looking at her suspiciously. “Yeah, what? Is something wrong?”

I honestly don’t know... thought Ino frantically as the heady feeling threatened to overwhelm her. Beating it back down, she hastily tore her eyes away and shook her head. “It’s nothing. Never mind.”

Shikamaru gazed at her strangely, seemingly unsatisfied at her answer. Then he shrugged and moved to follow Asuma, who was already heading downstairs. Next Choji followed, and Ino found herself hurrying to fall into step besides him. As the four began the trek towards the restaurant, Ino smiled bittersweetly at their formation: Shikamaru had taken the lead position besides Asuma, with she and Choji filing behind. It was yet another thing to get used to, now that Shikamaru was a chuunin. Sighing quietly once more, Ino resumed watching him, studying the swirl on the back of the vest. Soon her eyes were sweeping over his back and shoulders, drifting down his legs and up the back of his neck. The unsettled feeling came rushing back in strength.

Wow. He even looks good from behind.

A startled gasp escaped her lips at the shocking thought. Ino hastily clamped a hand over her mouth, afraid of letting another sound spill out. Where were these scandalous ideas coming from?

As if in response, the disorienting sensation swept over her, setting her heart pounding. Ino’s eyes widened as she probed her feelings.

What is with this overwhelming reaction? Whenever I look at Shikamaru today, I act like I’m in -

And then it happened. Confusion, disbelief, stubbornness and something unacknowledged conspired against Ino, rendering her helpless in its wake. Her lips curved into a smirk as the full weight of her feelings flowed over her.

She began to snicker.

“Ino, what it is?” whispered Choji, looking at her curiously. It wasn’t often that he observed her laughing for no apparent reason.

In response, Ino shook her head quickly, biting off the laughter fighting to escape. But another bubble of mirth was already welling up inside. Honestly, what is the matter with me? This is Shikamaru! SHIKAMARU! There is just no way that I could feel this way about him...

... Could I?

She accidentally let out another giggle, much louder than before. Just ahead of her Shikamaru flinched, as if he’d been waiting for something like this all along. He whipped around with a challenging glare. “What is it?”

“It’s n-nothing,” she gasped. “R-really!”

Unfortunately at that moment she inadvertently caught Choji’s eye, and a fresh round of snickers escaped. Choji, though initially bemused by her behavior, was starting to find the absurdity entertaining. And he seemed to have independently landed on the source of Ino’s amusement:

“Heh. Well, Shikamaru, with that vest on, you have to admit that from this side you kind of look like a miniature Asuma.”

Shikamaru’s ears were turning red. Ino thought he might even be blushing. Somehow his annoyance was making him all the more appealing to her - and that made it all the more surreal. And hilarious. This really could not be happening. Then another treacherous thought appeared...

I wonder what it would be like to kiss him.

It was just too much. Giving in to the inevitable, Ino let out an unladylike snort. She was quickly joined by Choji, and soon the pair of them were struggling not to laugh too hard at Shikamaru’s growing ire.

“Damn it, it’s just a stupid vest,” he groused, glaring daggers at them both. “There’s nothing funny about it!”

Maybe not, Shikamaru, agreed Ino as she wiped a tear from her eye. But if it’s all the same to you... I think I’ll just keep this to myself.

----------

Fanfic Author Notes - Dash

2008-10-16T23:57:14Z

***FanFic Vital Stats***

Title: Dash
Fandom: Naruto
Pairing: Shikamaru x Ino
Other Characters: Asuma, Choji, Sakura
Format: One-shot
Genre: Romance, Humor
Rating: PG, mild language
Warnings: Slightly AU, 30Kisses Theme
Tag Line: “Well, Billboard Brow, what about tweaking the challenge then? Instead of the winner kissing a winner... how about the loser kissing a loser?”

***FanFic History***

This idea had to sit around awhile, mostly because unlike my typical vignette, I knew this one would be a little longer and I just didn't want to invest the time. But I hadn't been writing for months and then when I finally got back around to it, this was the first one that I knew I could finish easily. I don't really remember what inspired the idea; I think it was a something that developed out of the ideas I had with two of my other longer fics (Bittersweet Sixteen for the Sakura x Ino challenge, and Unparalleled Teamwork for the race event - this is in an upcoming chapter that was partially written but as yet unreleased). Is it possible to plagiarize your own work?

[Fanfic][Naruto] Dash

2008-10-16T23:45:42Z

Naruto Fanfic – “Dash”
Written October 2008 by Astra M.
----------

“Sensei, why do we have to do this again?” asked Choji from where he sat beneath a shade tree, pausing just long enough to stuff a handful of chips into his mouth. “I thought this festival was only supposed to be for genin-level ninja and students.”

“The Sports Festival is an excellent way to show off everyone’s athletic prowess and combat abilities,” answered Asuma diplomatically while lighting up a fresh cigarette. “They just wanted to expand the field this year to allow the veterans back in.”

“Whatever. More likely Tsunade just caved in to some village elder’s asinine wish to relive his glory days,” muttered Shikamaru snidely. He stretched back out on the grass and stared longingly up at the sky. “It’s just a pointless waste of time.”

Yeah, that’s probably what happened, admitted Asuma silently. Sure, the Fifth Hokage’s official stance was that the competition provided a useful, low-key venue to test the skills of a wider range of Konoha’s residents and foster community spirit. But for Asuma what the Festival really offered was a lot more valuable: a shot at bragging rights among his fellow jounin for another year. Indeed, remembering the look on Kurenai’s face after the pie-eating contest caused him to break into an indecently pleased grin. “So how are we doing in the standings now?” he asked Shikamaru.

There was a snort of disgust. “Due to a certain bossy person’s relentless competitiveness, we’re ahead of Team 9 and tied with Team 7.”

“Not bad, Team Ino.”

Shikamaru rolled his eyes at the old moniker but didn’t argue. Even though he had become head of the team since making chuunin, there were still times he let his blonde teammate take charge. Especially when it involved tiresome affairs like this one. It was right up her alley...

Asuma was gazing speculatively around the grounds. “Speaking of which, where is your fearless leader?”

“Trash talking with Sakura, most likely,” griped Shikamaru. “They’ve been going at it nonstop since they first laid eyes on each other this morning. It’s like they’ve reverted back into a pair of silly genin. Stupid girls,” he muttered, with a pout strongly reminiscent of his younger self.

“Nothing wrong with a little friendly rivalry,” said Asuma, secretly wishing that some of Ino’s aggressiveness would rub off on his favorite pupil. “In any case, you need to go find her. Your team’s final event is coming up soon.”

With a groan, Shikamaru pulled himself upright. Recalling the place where he’d last seen Ino taunting Sakura, he reluctantly headed off towards the judging pavilion and grimaced, envisioning the scenario between them.

“Friendly” rivalry, my butt!

----------

“That last event was utterly pathetic. Face it, Sakura - your team’s going down.”

“Pathetic? Your team’s only just managed to tie with us, Ino. Don’t let it go to that swelled head of yours!”

“Swelled head? Don’t you mean more like swelled forehead?”

Next to the score board, the two kunoichi rivals were once again facing off. As Shikamaru had observed earlier, they’d been sniping at each other with increasing vigor as the day progressed. But now with their teams evenly scored and one event remaining, the tension between them was reaching its peak.

“Ha-ha,” said Sakura dryly, her green eyes glowing with competitive fire. “But seriously, Ino-Pig, you’ve already reached your limit. We both know that you won’t be able to beat me in the final race.”

“Oh, yeah?” Ino’s blue eyes glittered in return. Feeling over-confident and aggressive, she made an impulsive suggestion: “In that case, why don’t we make this more interesting?”

Sakura immediately picked up on her implication. “You mean like a private challenge to prove which one of us is the stronger kunoichi?”

“We already know who’s the strongest,” said Ino smugly. “I was thinking of competing for a prize worthy of the one who ultimately wins it all.”

Invisible sparks crackled between them as their eyes bored into one another’s, telepathically communicating the singular objective of their combative hearts. Then they simultaneously pointed at one another and opened their mouths:

“THE WINNER OF THIS BATTLE GETS TO KISS SASUKE!”

The declaration hung portentously in the air. Then reality set in and they both looked away sheepishly.

“He’d never have agreed to it anyway,” muttered Ino.

“Yeah... I know,” sighed Sakura.

But their dejected mood lasted only a few moments before a mischievous gleam reentered Ino’s eyes. She glanced over slyly at her rival.

“Well, Billboard Brow, what about tweaking the challenge then? Instead of the winner kissing a winner... how about the loser kissing a loser?”

Sakura looked at her strangely. “What are you talking about?”

Ino’s smirk widened. “It means that if you lose... you have to kiss Naruto!”

“Kiss... Naruto?”

Sakura stared dazedly back at Ino, her mouth working soundlessly. Her face began to turn a bright shade of pink.

Ino likewise goggled at her rival’s reaction, at a loss for words herself. She’d expected anger, not this flustered weirdness. An odd thought suddenly struck her. “Hey, Sakura... do you like Naruto?” she asked uncertainly.

Sakura immediately came to life. “What? NO! I don’t like Naruto like that!” she yelled.

Ino’s suspicion mounted. “Then why are you acting so nervous about kissing him?”

“I am not!” insisted Sakura, her face changing from pink to red. “And just why should I be nervous about kissing him?”

“Er... does that mean you want to kiss Naruto?”

“ENOUGH!!!” yelled Sakura, her eyes flashing. “If that’s the way you want the challenge to be, then fine! But if you lose, Ino... you have to kiss Shikamaru!”

Now it was Ino’s turn to stare slack-jawed at Sakura, her mind having just inexplicably gone blank. Then a sense of indignation swelled up inside. “Hey, wait a minute! Shikamaru’s not a -! Uh, I mean...”

Ino trailed off, at a loss for her sudden burst of temper and then subsequent hesitation. Worse, she too could feel that her face had become flushed, as much to her rival’s amazement as her own.

Sakura seized the opening, determined to cover for her lapse. “What is it, Ino? Has your teammate finally graduated to the list of boys you’re dying to make out with?”

“What?” cried Ino, rocked to the core by Sakura’s insinuation. She wasn’t prepared for this particular line of attack, and her defensive instincts automatically kicked in. “Don’t be stupid! He’s not even close to being on my list!”

“Then you should have no objections to kissing him, right?”

Ino was again rendered mute, and Sakura was relieved to see that she’d managed to successfully distract Ino from further questions about Naruto. Still, Sakura’s own curiosity was now piqued, and her killer instincts were too finely honed by years of rivalry to let it go at that. Memory of a surprising comment Ino had once blithely let slip resurfaced, and she smirked.

“Hmm... or maybe it’s just that he’s been moved onto a list of his very own,” taunted Sakura knowingly. “I hear he really looks good once he puts on that chuunin vest!”

Ino could feel that her face had gone red. She flashed back to that day after the Chuunin Exams when everything had changed, and the same flurry of strange feelings stirred up within her again. It didn’t matter that she didn’t understand them any better after all this time - all Ino knew was that she was feeling very uncomfortable, and that she had to put a stop to this right now.

“Shikamaru is nothing but a loser, and I would sooner break my leg than kiss him!” cried Ino vehemently. “And at least I’m not the one harboring a secret desire to suck face with Naruto!”

Sakura’s face became prune-like in her anger. “In your dreams, Ino-Pig,” she snapped. “Or do they only feature Shikamaru these days?”

“ENOUGH!” yelled Ino, echoing her rival’s earlier outcry. Then she impulsively thrust out her hand towards Sakura before she could say anything further. “If that’s how you want it - fine! Do we have a deal?”

Sakura seemed to hesitate, and then she quickly clasped Ino’s extended hand. “It’s a challenge,” she replied as the two angrily shook. “The loser of this battle has to kiss another loser!”

At that moment the pre-race warning horn sounded, alerting everyone to assemble for the final event. Sakura and Ino immediately broke their handshake, each turning away to stalk off towards her respective team.

Then the shadowy form of Shikamaru stepped out from behind the scoreboard. His face was dark and stormy as he watched the familiar blonde ponytail swishing determinedly away from him.

Oh... so that’s how it is.

----------

I so feel tense right now.

Ino stood at the starting line, glancing down the line of competitors until her gaze fell on the two entrants from Team Seven. As expected, Sakura was glaring back, and yet she looked strangely stiff as Naruto suddenly adjusted his grip on her. Ino quickly turned away, resisting the urge to laugh at her rival’s discomfort: it would have been funny... if only it didn’t so perfectly mirror her own.

“Idiots,” muttered Shikamaru besides her.

Ino jumped slightly. She looked at him askance, surprised that he’d been following her gaze. Not to mention that it was the first word Shikamaru had spoken to her since she’d found him skulking on the sidelines, appearing just when she’d been on the verge of freaking out. He hadn’t responded with his usual sarcasm when she’d yelled at him for bringing them within a hair of disqualification and dragged him to the starting line; nor had he lifted a finger to help her with their leg bindings, forcing her to do all the work herself. While this behavior was not entirely inconsistent, Ino sensed that something was off: Shikamaru’s manner towards her was entirely too cold for normal.

Still, Ino was too keyed up to worry much about that. She was finding it hard enough just keeping her cool when he was standing so close to her. Soon they would be pressed side to side, with their arms slung around each other, and Shikamaru breathing heavily in her ear...

Ino gulped. Fortunately, just then there came a crackle from the loudspeaker.

“Ladies and gentlemen, the last contest of the Sports Festival is about to begin: the three-legged race!” proclaimed the chirpy announcer. “And being that this is the final event before naming the Grand Champions, the race course has been designed to be more challenging for our contestants by looping through the forest before returning to the finish line. So good luck, everyone!”

As the teams were announced to the cheering crowd, Ino closed her eyes and tried to calm her thoughts. She had to get back into her competitive mode. It would be impossible to run effectively if she couldn’t concentrate. Casting about for the right motivation, she imagined what the look on Sakura’s face would be when she lost. Soon Ino was smiling in renewed anticipation. It was going to be hard keeping it together once Sakura got up close and personal with Naruto -

Unexpectedly, Shikamaru’s arm took a sudden slide down her back and wrapped around her waist, pulling her in even closer. A tiny tremor raced through Ino as her awareness zeroed in on the weight of his hand resting firmly on her hip. Flustered, Ino felt the heat begin to rise in her face and she struggled not to squirm. It was the first time she’d been this hyperaware of Shikamaru’s touch.

Silence descended on the waiting crowd, and Ino gulped again as the world seemed to start spinning. She wondered if she could remember which leg to start off with...

“On your mark! Ready... set... GO!”

The crack of the starting gun sent a shot of adrenaline coursing through Ino’s system, clearing her mind. The world righted itself. Feeling aggressive and full of determination, she took a swift step forward - and slammed face first into the grass.

Some in the crowd began tittering. Stunned, Ino hastily pushed herself up on her forearms. What in the world..? Twisting onto her side, she looked down at her bound left leg, tracing its entanglement backwards to Shikamaru... who was laying peacefully on his back and gazing up at the clouds.

“An unusual move by Team Ten right out of the starting gate,” said the announcer. “Could this be some kind of bizarre new strategy?”

“What the heck are you doing!?” cried Ino as she flipped her body back around into alignment. “This isn’t the place for that, you idiot!”

Shikamaru yawned. “But it’s such a nice day. And I don’t really feel like moving from this spot...”

Incensed, Ino rolled right over him and seized hold of his collar. “Have you lost your mind? We’re right in the middle of a race, damn it!”

He merely looked bored. “Seriously, you should try doing stuff like this more often, Ino. You wouldn’t be such a high-strung person, obsessed with petty, trivial things...”

She began to shake him. “Get up or die!”

Shikamaru put his hands up in a sign of submission. “All right, all right,” he sighed (in that annoyingly exaggerated, woe-begotten tone that seemed peculiarly custom-designed to set her teeth on edge.) But as promised, he pushed himself upwards, and soon the two had staggered upright and were on their way.

At first Ino thought all was well. After an initially awkward lurch, within a few steps she’d found herself in perfect sync with him. Her annoyance vanished as satisfaction took hold. Yes, this was more like it - Shikamaru really was a good partner, whenever he got serious about doing something. Pleased, she snuck a sideways glance at him, and was suddenly cognizant of just how physically close they were.

Whoa, this feels so... natural.

The fluttery sensation returned, setting her head spinning. Well, that’s hardly a surprise, right? she reasoned with herself. They’d been partners for so long that it should only be expected that Shikamaru would complement her movements so well - or vice versa. As with now, when their rhythm felt so disturbingly right...

Fighting a blush, Ino dropped her gaze. She found herself staring mindlessly down at the ground, watching their legs traversing the grass. And then it hit her.

They were strolling.

“What the..?” gasped Ino as she quickly looked back up at Shikamaru, who appeared no less unperturbed than before. It was then that she finally registered the snickering coming from the crowd behind them. She broke into a dark scowl. “Hey, just what is the meaning of this?!”

Shikamaru turned his head to gaze impassively back at her. “Eh? Meaning of what?” he answered carelessly, keeping their pace unaltered.

“Don’t play dumb! Why are we walking?”

“Just pacing ourselves, of course,” answered Shikamaru blithely. “A steady rate will get the job done - you do remember the tale of the tortoise and the hare?”

Ino gnashed her teeth. “That’s just a stupid fable!” Looking across the lawn, she saw that their competition was quickly nearing the forest. She began to panic. “See that - we’re being left behind!”

“No good, huh?” Ino felt Shikamaru’s arm twitch in a half-hearted shrug. “In that case, I guess we could try this instead...”

Unexpectedly, Shikamaru’s right hand slipped down from her shoulders to wind around her waist while he simultaneously seized the left arm she had slung across his back, pulling it closer. Then Ino felt the blood automatically rushing to her face as she found herself being pressed even tighter against his side. But before she could say anything, there came an awkward jerking jump and all her attention became focused on not stumbling. Immediately another unsteady hop and leap followed, then another, and another... and now Ino felt the embarrassed flush turning into a fiery heat as she finally caught on to the rhythm. She turned to aim an incredulous glare at Shikamaru.

“You’re not seriously trying to skip our way to the finish line?”

“Yeah, why not?” replied Shikamaru as he flashed her a little smirk that set her blood boiling. “You gotta admit that this is a lot faster than walking.”

Confusion and fury descended over Ino as she stared uncomprehendingly at Shikamaru. What in the world had gotten into him? Sure, he could sometimes be difficult about things, but she’d never seen such willful obstinacy like this. Or watch him intentionally acting like such a fool. Listening to the open laughter from the crowd, Ino’s temper reached its breaking point. Stupid Shikamaru - he was going to throw the race for them just for the sake of a few laughs! Driven by anger and desperation, Ino leaned over and shouted directly into his ear:

“Damn it all, Shikamaru - are you deliberately trying to lose?!?”

Immediately a strange expression crossed his face and the smirk vanished. Then to Ino’s astonishment, they abruptly came to a dead stop, and Shikamaru turned to give her a cold, hard look.

“No... I guess you really wouldn’t want that, would you?”

Instantly Shikamaru’s entire demeanor transformed. He seized Ino again, but with a much rougher grip, and without warning broke into a run. Caught off guard, it was all Ino could do to keep herself upright as they charged across the grass; she even felt somewhat scared by this turn of events. Yet she couldn’t really complain - Shikamaru’s clip was such that they quickly overtook the stragglers and drove through the middle of the pack. Soon they’d closed in on the leaders, and now Ino experienced a heady flush of victory when she and Shikamaru finally drew even with Sakura and Naruto - and then easily passed them by.

They were well in the lead when they plunged into the forest leg of the race. It was then that Ino (who previously had been stoked by the horrified expression on Sakura’s face) began to feel nervous again. Unlike the grassy lawn, the ground here was uneven and loaded with potential hazards like broken branches and rocks. Yet Shikamaru was not slackening his pace, and Ino was having difficulty matching his steps.

“Hey! Slow down, Shikamaru!” she finally yelled when her right foot just missed catching itself under a tree root. “We’re way ahead of everyone else now - take it easy already!”

Instead of the expected response, however, Shikamaru didn’t break his stride. “You want to win this, don’t you?” he answered brusquely.

Something about his tone sent a warning shiver down her spine, but Ino ignored that in favor of getting angry again. She was certain she was going to take another headlong fall, and Shikamaru’s bizarre attitude was really grating on her nerves.

“Of course I want to win!” she snapped. “But I don’t want to break my neck in order to do it!”

“Are you sure about that, Ino? There could be far worse things than simply breaking your neck, you know.”

Fed up and confused, Ino determinedly dug her feet into the ground, forcing them to come to a halt. Breaking free of Shikamaru’s grip, she tried her best to spin around to confront him, but only succeeded in taking a fresh spill onto the forest floor. Rubbing her leg painfully, Ino settled for glaring up at Shikamaru, who merely stood looking impassively back down at her.

“What is your freaking problem, Shikamaru?” she demanded. “This isn’t like you at all - stop beating around the bush and spit it out!”

“My problem, Ino, is that I know you how much you can’t stand to lose. So I think that winning this pain-in-the-ass race as fast as possible is in everyone’s best interests.” Pausing, Shikamaru’s grim face darkened even further. “And if you don’t like my methods - too bad. Consider all this a favor I’m making to you.”

“Everyone’s best interests? A ‘favor’ to me?” repeated Ino, mystified. An uncomfortable feeling began to stir in the pit of her stomach. “Hey... just what exactly are you talking about?”

“What I’m saying is that just like you, I’m not interested in being kissed by a loser either!”

Shock flooded through Ino as she stared speechlessly up at Shikamaru’s stony gaze. The scene with Sakura flashed back into her mind, and then she felt the blood draining from her face.

Oh no - he was listening to our conversation! He overheard the bet!

A sick feeling settled over her as Ino realized that there was no simple way of explaining this to Shikamaru. Her goal had been nothing more than to embarrass Sakura, no different from any other time - except that her proposal had gotten out of control once Sakura brought Shikamaru into it. Ino hadn’t anticipated being so thrown at the prospect of kissing Shikamaru, or that she would feel so defensive over him - but her reaction had been like waving a red flag in front of Sakura and she just didn’t want to back down to her rival. But how was she supposed to explain all that to Shikamaru? Especially the part about her unexpected feelings for him...

“No! You don’t understand!” cried Ino, fumbling about for something safe to say. “It was all just trash-talking, Shikamaru! We weren’t being serious! It’s not what really -!”

“Yeah, whatever, Ino,” interrupted Shikamaru coldly. “I don’t believe that for a minute, but I really could care less. Now get up - we’re losing our lead!”

“Wait -!”

But he didn’t stop to listen. Reaching down, Shikamaru roughly seized an arm and yanked Ino back on her feet. And then they were off running again.

Ino’s stomach clenched tightly as she saw the ground passing rapidly beneath them, though she wasn’t sure if the fear was due more to their dangerous pace or from the boy racing besides her. She could clearly feel the anger pouring off of Shikamaru: his grip was painfully tight, his speed was reckless, and he wasn’t even attempting to match his stride to hers at all. Perhaps he was more sure-footed than she’d realized in this kind of terrain, given his family’s upbringing - but she was straining badly now just to keep up. Real panic began to surge inside Ino as they tore through the forest. Any second now she was going to -

On cue, her right foot landed on an innocuous-looking stick laying on the pathway, and rocketed off it as if she’d hit an oil slick. Struggling to keep her balance, Ino stumbled. Then her ankle twisted sharply, and with a startled gasp she crashed against Shikamaru, knocking them both to the ground.

Ino sucked in her breath as a stab of pain shot up her leg. She was vaguely aware of Shikamaru sitting up and leaning over to give her an annoyed look. “You know, Ino, for someone as big of a braggart as you are, I’m kind of surprised. If you’re going to bank on winning your bets, shouldn’t you at least have the talent to back it up?”

When she didn’t respond beyond giving a faint moan, Shikamaru muttered a “tch” of disgust, irritated with both Ino and himself. He knew he was acting like a jerk, but he was having a hard time restraining himself. On the one hand, he didn’t like being so rough with her - it went against his principles. On the other hand, he wasn’t about to let her make sport of him. In truth, the knowledge that she’d done this was hitting him much harder than he cared to admit...

Scowling pitilessly at the girl crumpled next to him, Shikamaru got up on one leg. Then he reached down and took hold of her arm again. “It’s a total pain to have to keep repeating myself, Ino, but if you don’t want to lose - get up!” he yelled, as he abruptly jerked her upright.

To his shock, Ino screamed and collapsed back on the ground. “You’re hurting me!”

Shikamaru froze. The anger dissipated as he quickly dropped to his knees and inspected her leg gingerly. When he touched her ankle, Ino reacted with another cry of pain.

“I think it’s twisted,” he told her grimly.

“Or b-broken,” winced Ino. “Ow, it hurts...”

A somber, remorseful feeling settled over Shikamaru as he watched her pale face. He’d never seriously considered that he might wind up harming Ino by pushing her so hard. It was exactly the kind of boorish behavior he’d always despised in others... and to have directed it at someone he ought to have been protecting... Aargh! Why had he gone overboard like that?

Then again, he already knew the reason why.

I hate that she thinks I’m a loser.

A fresh twinge of anger passed through him. For a moment Shikamaru was torn between his indignation and his guilt, when another voice spoke up in his mind:

But only a real loser would treat a girl like this.

He smiled ruefully. No matter how much of a kick in the gut it was to be Ino’s fall guy, he’d still never let himself fall so low as to become a true ass. And (he groaned) that meant an apology was in order at the very least...

Resigned, Shikamaru cleared his throat.

“Hey, Ino...”

“What?” she snapped.

“I’m really sorry about this,” he said bluntly, causing Ino to leave off rubbing her leg. “I didn’t mean to run you so hard. That was a... mean, dumb-ass thing to do.” He paused to heave a deep sigh. “I was just... angry. I’m sorry.”

Ino grimaced as the guilty feelings she’d experienced prior to the fall returned in force. True, she was more than a little upset with Shikamaru; even now it was on the tip of her tongue to tear into him. But how could she justify being mad at him when it was her own cruel, thoughtless actions that had set him off?

“Shikamaru... I think there’s something you ought to know,” began Ino hesitantly as she looked up at him. “What happened earlier between Sakura and me wasn’t ever meant to involve you. It was just stupid teasing that got out of hand - not that that’s an excuse, but it’s the truth. It never crossed my mind that Sakura would pick you.“ She paused, feeling her cheeks grow warm, but she pressed on. “Because I don’t think you’re a loser. Really.”

“You... don’t?” Shikamaru stared at her, his expression a cross between disbelief and surprise. “But you yourself said that you’d sooner break your own leg than kiss a loser like me!”

Ino briefly dropped her head, aware that her face was now blooming into a full blush. “I’m sorry; I didn’t mean it. It was just a... rude, dumb-ass thing to say. I was embarrassed to admit it to Sakura. But the truth is I... I like you, Shikamaru,” she finished softly.

For a moment they just gazed at each other, equally astonished by what the other had admitted. Then Shikamaru, appearing somewhat embarrassed, cleared his throat again, and Ino resisted the urge to bury her face in her knees. But before either could say anything more, there came the sound of someone crashing through the underbrush - the other racers were quickly approaching. Instead they exchanged a wordless glance that summed up their predicament: so now what do we do?

“Do you still want to finish the race?” asked Shikamaru as he crouched down and began re-examining her leg.

“Not really,” muttered Ino.

He gave an uncertain look. “Huh? Are you serious?”

Ino sighed, thinking about the stupid bet and what Sakura was bound to say once it was all over. Well, perhaps this was karma - she never should have proposed it in the first place. “What does it matter, anyway? I don’t care about winning it anymore. Besides that, you know I can’t finish the race like this,” she said, gesturing grumpily at her foot.

Shikamaru, however, was watching her with a thoughtful expression. Then his mouth curved in a mild smirk, and he held out a hand to gently grasp hers.

“We’ve come this far together...”

-----

Some time later, two figures emerged from the woods and began their final trek across the grass towards the finish line. A murmur went up from the waiting crowd.

“Ah... what’s this?” exclaimed the astonished announcer. “Well, I’ll be. Folks, the race is over, but it looks like we still have one last pair attempting to cross the finish line!”

Shikamaru sighed, but kept striding purposefully forward as the crowd turned en masse to watch. In his arms he carried Ino, who had her arms wrapped around his shoulders and her head buried against his neck. Shikamaru wished that he too could similarly avoid the probing eyes of the crowd or at least shut off their calls of “encouragement” - he was certain that whistling cat-call was Kiba’s - but ultimately their presence was simply an unfortunate annoyance. Audience or no, there were just some things a man had to do.

“And bringing up the rear... Nara Shikamaru and Yamanaka Ino. An unfortunate turn of events for Team Ten, as this loss knocks them down to last place in the overall standings. But folks, let’s give them a hand for their determination in finishing the race anyway! What great teamwork!”

With the crowd clapping its encouragement, Shikamaru finally crossed the line. Job done, he was wondering if he should try carrying Ino to the hospital or locating a field medic first when his thoughts were unexpectedly upended: Ino had lifted her head from his shoulder and was softly pressing her lips to his.

The world dimmed. Shikamaru was vaguely aware of someone whooping obnoxiously in the background (Naruto probably), but mostly there was nothing but blissful oblivion until Ino gently broke the kiss. For a moment he could do nothing but blink in wonder at the girl resting in his arms. Then his surprise faded into dejection.

“Was that because we lost?” he asked warily.

Ino broke into a mischievous yet tender grin.

“Don’t be silly, Shikamaru, Everyone knows that at the end of the race, it’s only the winner who gets a kiss from the girl.”

Then he smiled as she leaned in for another.

Writing Update - June 08

2008-06-02T01:12:04Z

I am presently in the midst of a job change, potential relocation, and a lot of other related issues. So "free time" is always questionable, but I'm trying to squeeze in some writing as I can. Keeps me sane. :)

Status of Works in Progress:

Bittersweet Sixteen - On to new chapter, "Turnabout," which will take some time to write and will likely be split into multiple parts when I finally start posting it. It has a lot of angst, so that always takes a lot out of me.

The Scent of Grass and Flowers - New installment, "Dash," in progress. I see from my notes that I've had this idea for over a year.

Unparalleled Teamwork - Rewrite of chapter one, "Asuma's New Team," in progress.

Morning Sickness - At work on second half of "Imagining Things" chapter.

Ginny Weasley and the Red Shoes - another dead stop in favor of other things.

Writing Update - May 08

2008-05-02T00:46:42Z

Status of Works in Progress:

All works are currently "on hold" until some significant free time opens up in my personal life. Hopefully, that will be much sooner than later.

Fanfic Author Notes - Perfect Blue

2008-03-19T03:34:43Z

***FanFic Vital Stats***

Title: Perfect Blue
Fandom: Naruto
Pairing: Shikamaru x Ino
Other Characters: Shikaku
Format: Vignette
Genre: Romance, Humor
Rating: PG, very mild language
Warnings: none, 30Kisses Theme
Tag Line: “What?!? Poetry?!? Me?!?” he yelled incredulously. “Pop, are you out of your mind?”

***FanFic History***

I prefer writing prose to poetry myself, probably because all of my own (school enforced) exercises have resulted in scathing essay-length reviews, open mockery, and in one instance a mass case of stunned horror (that one wasn’t meant to be read aloud though). Given my past history, I had understandably mixed feelings about this story, and yet it made sense for Shikamaru. So because I’m a masochist, here’s a fic in honor of my old nemesis, April’s National Poetry Month. Yikes.

[Fanfic][Naruto] Perfect Blue

2008-03-19T03:30:51Z

Naruto Fanfic – “Perfect Blue”
Written March 2008 by Astra M.
----------

Shikamaru sighed again for the umpteenth time that morning as he lay on the roof of his house and stared listlessly up at the sky. Sadly, this day’s cloud-watching session was failing to bring him any peace of mind. But then how could he feel restful when the sting from yesterday’s fight with Ino was still so freshly weighing on him?

Some people think I'm gorgeous!

And some people will say whatever they think you want to hear!

It had come out all wrong. At the time Shikamaru had been extremely annoyed, given that Ino seemed to be deliberately baiting him with that irritating nickname Sai had given her. Of course, he’d silently cursed himself as soon as the words had left his mouth. But however he tried to backpedal afterwards, Ino would have none of it, and he just couldn’t find the right words to apologize before she stormed off in a towering rage.

Blast it all, why was Ino always so hung up on things like artistry and beauty anyway?

It had been a trivial argument, too. At least he’d thought it was. Ino had wanted to drag him to an art exhibition, which Shikamaru, who had no use for art in general, already knew he’d find tediously boring. But his lack of enthusiasm was made twice as bad once Ino announced that Sai was going to be present. That was when things took a turn for the worse. Shikamaru bluntly pointed out that he failed to see what was so “artistic” about Sai’s work, given that he seemed to have the same eye for beauty as did the average crayon-wielding toddler - and that had touched off a fiery reaction in Ino. She started defending Sai’s “artistic sensibilities,” and that had set Shikamaru’s teeth on edge, especially once she began implying that Sai’s appreciation for art gave him a sensitivity of soul that was noticeably lacking in his own....

In Shikamaru’s opinion, Sai was, quite frankly, a total ass, regardless of whatever artistic talent he allegedly possessed. And yet he had to acknowledge that Sai possessed a side to him that Shikamaru couldn’t comprehend, much less compete with, which enabled the jerk to speak directly to something in Ino’s heart. Worse, the knowledge that he was completely lacking this dimension was causing him to have doubts about his relationship with Ino. Their passions were so different - and artistic souls should go together, right?

Heaving another gloomy sigh, Shikamaru turned his gaze away from the sky to stare out across the rooftops of Konoha, in the general direction of the Yamanaka flower shop. It was times like this he wished very badly that Asuma were still around. Who else could he turn to for useful advice about women...?

“Shikamaru, your mother’s been looking for you. Didn’t you hear her calling?”

Shikaku was leaning out the window of Shikamaru’s bedroom, regarding his son keenly. Shikamaru automatically tensed as he felt his father’s eyes studying him. He knew what was coming next....

“What’s the trouble, boy? Did you have a fight with your girlfriend?”

Shikamaru groaned. After all those years of disparaging his father’s relationship with his mother, it was aggravating to now find himself in the same position. “Yeah,” he admitted reluctantly.

Shikaku chuckled. Then with surprisingly well-practiced ease he suddenly leapt out of the window to join his son on the roof ledge. Shikamaru raised his brows in shock. He’d never seen his father stretch out on the roof before - Yoshino would have thrown a fit.

“Care to tell your old man about it?” asked Shikaku as he lay back comfortably against the warm tiles and gazed lazily up at the sky.

Resigned though a tad disgruntled, Shikamaru filled his father in on the previous day’s troubles. When he had finished, Shikaku turned to look at his son.

“Have you thought about going over there this morning and apologizing again?”

“Yeah, but I don’t think she’d listen,” muttered Shikamaru darkly. “Kinda hard to apologize when you know she’s not going to be in the mood to listen to anything right now.”

“Ah,” said Shikaku sympathetically. He ran his fingers over his goatee thoughtfully. “In that case, you should try something different. Something she’d appreciate... like writing her a poem.”

For a moment, a wall of silence hung between the two males as the gentle breeze blew across the roof tops. Then Shikamaru twisted angrily to confront his father.

“What?!? Poetry?!? Me?!?” he yelled incredulously. “Pop, are you out of your mind?”

“Use your brain, son,” responded Shikaku in an infuriatingly unperturbed manner. “You said yourself that there’s something in Ino that responds to art and beauty. So instead of dismissing it, why don’t you spend some time thinking about why it’s so important to her?”

A grimace crossed Shikamaru’s face. “It doesn’t matter if it’s important to Ino - I’m no good at anything like that! You and Mom both already know that I don’t have any talent for music, or drawing, or writing, or any kind of artistic thing. I’d be crap at poetry,” he added with a petulant scowl. “Besides that, it’s lame.”

Now it was Shikaku’s turn to sigh. “Listen, Shikamaru. It’s not that I don’t understand where you’re coming from, or that I didn’t once feel exactly the same way about it. But whether you believe it or not, poetry isn’t half so much about possessing some kind of natural literary talent than is it a means of communicating your thoughts.” He gave a dry chuckle. “In that regards, it’s practically custom-made for a man.”

“And just what the heck are you talking about?” wondered Shikamaru in a voice filled with skepticism.

“Poetry isn’t really about using big words or flowery language. It’s about taking your ideas about yourself and the world and then breaking it all down until you’re finally left with something spare, yet still profound. It's simple. It's direct. It's honest. And best of all it lets us express our feelings in a very basic manner... in a way that still speaks directly to her heart.”

Shikamaru said nothing, feeling more doubtful than assured of the wisdom in his father’s words. Seeing the expression on his face, Shikaku sat up and rose to his feet.

“Look, I’ll leave you alone to think about it. Ask yourself what beauty is, and then what Ino is to you. And one last piece of advice, Shikamaru: you’re not as disconnected from your heart as you think you are. At least, not when it comes to her... right?”

He disappeared silently through the window, and as Shikamaru watched him go, his mind began mulling over Shikaku’s comments. He shook his head. Genius he may be, but did his father really think that he was capable of telling Ino how he felt using something as sappy as a poem?

Hoping for insight, Shikamaru turned his gaze skywards again. But as pleasing as the familiar scene was, nothing came to mind. Was it his fault that he liked concrete things? Thinking like this was just too hard, too foreign... aw man, what a pain.

High above a cloud drifted slowly across the sky, and Shikamaru suddenly noticed that it was a pale color today: a light, clear blue that reminded him of Ino’s eyes....

----------

That afternoon, Shikamaru took a deep breath as he stood outside the Yamanaka flower shop. When he felt reasonably confident, he slunk through the entrance and approached the counter, where he spotted Ino slouching listlessly on her stool. He cleared his throat.

Astonishment filled Ino’s face upon seeing him and she jerked upright. But then as if recalling herself, she quickly crossed her arms and scowled.

“Hello, Shikamaru,” she said stiffly. “What do you want?”

For a moment, he hesitated as misgivings about this course of action resurfaced. Then Shikamaru determinedly steeled himself as he stretched out his hand.

“This is for you,” he said simply.

Shikamaru handed Ino a single flower and a folded note, and experienced a momentary surge of panic at the astonished expression that crossed her face (what the heck had he been thinking, giving her some wild, plucked thing in the middle of a flower shop?) But then her eyes softened, and although she wasn’t smiling, he still felt moderately encouraged as she quietly opened the note and began to read:

Ino -

I don't know anything about art.
But
I do know beauty when I see it.

Ino paused in her reading to frown. Oh, yeah? And when is that? she thought sarcastically. But then she continued:

It’s whenever I look up and see
A perfectly blue sky
and want to lose myself in it...

The same way I do
every time I look at you.

- Shikamaru (P.S. I’m sorry)

Ino’s eyes went wide, and she let out a small gasp as her cheeks flushed rosily. Clutching the poem in one hand, she rushed out from behind the counter and threw her arms about his neck. And before Shikamaru knew what was happening, she engulfed him in a passionate kiss.

“Forgiven,” whispered Ino as she broke away. “And thank you, Shikamaru,” she added as she leaned in to kiss him again.

Happily returning her advances, he made a silent admission to the old man: maybe there was something to this poetry thing after all.

Fanfic Author Notes - Ino's Secret Kissing Jutsu

2007-12-13T17:04:26Z

***FanFic Vital Stats***

Title: Ino's Secret Kissing Jutsu
Fandom: Naruto
Pairing: Shikamaru x Ino
Other Characters: Choji, nameless goons
Format: One-shot
Genre: Romance, Humor
Rating: PG-13, for language and sexuality
Warnings: Continues from Butt Out storyline. The term ‘kissing jutsu’ is duly credited to Persepolis130's fanfic “Operation: Genin Dance”
Summary: Is it possible for a normal teenage ninja in love to combine business with pleasure? Ino thinks she knows how to do it, provided she can just get Shikamaru to play along.

***FanFic History***

I had this story in mind for about a year with no real plans for writing it, but because of the problems I have had trying to rewrite a chapter of Bittersweet Sixteen, I really needed to work on other things for a little while. This one had new life breathed into it as a result. At the end of Butt Out, I wondered what challenges a secret affair between Ino and Shika might pose, and this is one of the ideas that popped out.

[Fanfic][Naruto] Ino's Secret Kissing Jutsu, Part Five

2007-12-13T16:51:39Z

Part Five: Ruse de Guerre
----------

Some time later a small flask of sake and two cups were placed on the table before Shikamaru and Ino, but neither acknowledged the arrival. They were instead wrapped up in such a passionate kiss that they had become temporarily oblivious to their surroundings. Their mouths, in fact, appeared to have fused together.

Jaded as she was, the waitress couldn’t help cocking an eyebrow at the display. Then she cleared her throat.

“Would you two like a room to go with that?” she sneered. “We’ll rent them by the hour... cheap.”

Shikamaru hastily broke off to glare at the woman. Unimpressed, she merely shrugged and shuffled away, leaving him to sag back against the seat feeling chagrined. Ino, however, continued suckling on his neck uninterrupted, and before long Shikamaru pushed aside his discomfort to once more bask in the pleasurable feeling. Even if he was embarrassed by their behavior, he didn’t want to stop. It was just getting too good.

Especially now that Ino had gone from sitting in his lap to straddling him.

He supposed he couldn’t really blame the waitress for making crude comments. They probably looked incredibly tawdry. Though he had seen a few other cozy couples scattered about, they were all adult and none appeared to be kissing with quite the same fervor. Only he and Ino were acting like the two hormone-addled teenagers they were, shamelessly putting on a public display as if they wanted everyone in the room to watch.

And yet nobody seemed to care.

Strangely, it was the surreal anonymity that was allowing Shikamaru to go through with this. If Choji were present he’d never have agreed to it, no matter how Ino cajoled - some things, he believed, were best kept private. But Ino didn’t agree with him there.

Remembering the argument in the woods, Shikamaru wished he could make her understand that the secrecy issue had nothing to do with shame. Good grief, how could she even think that he would ever be ashamed of letting others know that he’d been given such a beautiful, sexy girlfriend? The need for secrecy was driven by the practical reason of avoiding the complications that would arise if certain parties discovered how intimate their relationship had become. But Shikamaru had a greater, more personal reason for wanting to maintain their privacy. It was to protect their special moments, particularly those when he was aroused and Ino’s body responded wantonly to his every touch - that smoldering sexuality was meant for his eyes only. He wouldn’t share her hidden fire with the rest of the world.

With this in mind, Shikamaru was doing his very best to make sure that a certain line wasn’t about to be crossed. It was not easy, given the way Ino was clinging to him now. He was very aware of how little she was actually wearing, how close she was to spilling out all over him. Only the fact that there were others present kept him from slipping his hands in somewhere private. If something didn’t happen soon...

Fortunately, Ino chose that moment to start whispering in his ear again. “Heads up.”

With that, Shikamaru’s mind abruptly snapped back into focus. “What do you see?” he murmured, sitting up straighter.

Though it appeared otherwise, Ino had been keeping watch on the room between kisses with Shikamaru. From her position astride him, she had a clear line of view to the back table where Gaijo was seated, and she had just spotted one of his henchmen signaling to another. The second man slowly got up from his table, and Ino’s heart leapt - sitting next to him was their target. He was clearly about to be escorted to Gaijo’s table. Bingo!

Still, Ino couldn’t help feeling some dismay. It meant that her fun was over. But that was the price one paid as a ninja. Now it was time to get serious.

“I believe our target is about to make his introductions.” Ino swiftly buried her face against his neck and began whispering furiously. “Listen, Shikamaru. Do everything I tell you to do now. When I start making out with you again, you’re going to be doing something behind my back. Make sure I can’t see it, okay?”

If her instructions seemed odd to Shikamaru, he didn’t show it. Instead he answered by giving her lower back a light squeeze. Ino bit back a smile. Maybe the fun wasn’t entirely over yet.

“All right. I’m going to pour out the sake now. Keep your eyes on my cup.”

Ino pulled back suddenly and let out a silly, air-headed giggle that drew the attention of a few nearby diners. Shikamaru kept himself from frowning - the laugh fit the image, but it didn’t suit her at all. He watched as she twisted around and made a show of filling both cups, and then downing hers in a single gulp.

“Sake is soooo nice,” she drawled out loudly, ending with another annoying giggle. “It makes me all warm inside.”

“Would you like some more?” asked Shikamaru on impulse, supposing he should pretend to be eager to ply her with drinks.

He was rewarded by a delighted smile. “Sure! But before that...”

Ino suddenly slid her tongue into his mouth and kissed him heatedly. Shikamaru was amused to discover that she now tasted like sake. He supposed it wasn’t too bad, but her flavor was much better naked.

Much better.

Before Shikamaru could get too carried away by that thought, Ino broke the kiss again and came up to nibble on his ear.

“Very smooth,” she whispered approvingly. “Now for step two. Slip your hand inside my blouse, into the front of my bra. There’s something inside we need.”

But instead of complying, Shikamaru immediately tensed. Ino realized something was wrong. “Hey - what’s the matter?”

Now it was Shikamaru who buried his face in her neck. “It’s just... you know I love touching you, Ino. But I don’t want to grope you like that here in front of other people.” His grip on her tightened protectively. “Mission or not, it’s no one’s damn business how I touch you.”

Ino felt a warm tremor that had nothing to do with the sake blossom inside her belly. Momentarily setting aside the mission, she reached out to tenderly cup his chin, and dropped a chaste kiss on his lips. “All right, Shikamaru. I’ll get it.”

He soon felt her expertly slip the folded paper into his hand. “Now hurry and pour that into my cup,” whispered Ino as she returned to nuzzling him. “Don’t be too obvious but don’t be too subtle about it.”

Doing as he was directed, Shikamaru unfolded the paper. Then, while engaging Ino in another heated lip-lock, he casually stretched out and tipped the powdery contents into the second cup.

“It’s done,” he murmured quietly.

“Okay... now give it to me to drink.”

Shikamaru frowned sharply in spite of himself, but nonetheless did as he was told. Ino burst out with another loud round of obnoxious tittering as she took the cup from him, again making a point to down it one shot. Shikamaru grimaced as he watched the performance. He silently thanked his lucky stars that she really wasn’t that kind of annoying girl.

But had she really slipped herself a drug?

Not bloody likely. Shikamaru began to mull, putting two and two together. The showy make-out, the sake, and the mysterious powder - it was clear they were all parts of an elaborate deception. Which once combined meant that in the end...

Belated alarm bells went off. Then before he could think to say anything, Ino was once more back to pressing her body fully up against his. Shikamaru could feel her positioning her hands behind his head, framing them in an all-too-familiar gesture. She began whispering again.

“Target locked - time for the grande finale.”

“Oy, Ino, this plan of yours -!” he whispered back frantically.

“- has been completed. The rest is up to you now.” Ino swiftly caught his mouth in hers and drew out one last, languorous kiss. As she pulled away, Shikamaru saw her winking mischievously. “So don’t forget I’m counting on you to play it right!”

Then before he could protest any further, he heard the familiar entreaty being whispered softly next to his ear:

“Take care of my body, Shikamaru. Shintenshin no Jutsu!”

And she was gone.

Shikamaru’s arms tightened reflexively as Ino’s body went limp. He sighed in defeat, and then carefully rolled her off and onto the seat beside him. There he studied her face for a few moments, feeling equally impressed and annoyed by her chutzpah. He had to admit she’d been right in the end - her part of the plan had worked like a charm. As for the rest of it...

Shikamaru glanced between the doctored sake and Ino’s unconscious form. He cringed at how this all looked, but he knew that this too had been part of the plan all along. He just had to play his role in it out... curse the girl.

Nothing else for it. Slinging an arm possessively around Ino, Shikamaru took a fortifying gulp of sake straight from the flask. Then he gestured for the waitress.

“Excuse me... how much did you say those rooms were?”

[Fanfic][Naruto] Ino's Secret Kissing Jutsu, Part Four

2007-12-13T16:50:04Z

Part Four: Diversions
----------

Shikamaru couldn’t stop scowling.

He sat slouched down low with arms crossed tightly over his chest, fighting the urge to look back over his shoulder. Angry, perturbed thoughts were intruding on his customarily cool-headed thinking. It felt as if every eye had been turned on them as they walked through the door, and for a minute Shikamaru was certain that they’d blown their flimsy cover. But the simple (and annoying) truth was that everyone had been mesmerized by watching Ino confidently saunter her way towards her selected seat - hardly anyone had spared him a glance. And afterwards they had immediately been forgotten once they’d slid into the booth, leaving Shikamaru to stew. It couldn’t really have been that stupidly easy to infiltrate this place... could it?

He caught Ino flashing him a saucy grin. Worked like a charm, huh?

Shikamaru’s mood did not improve. Never mind his own misgivings. Any small measure of success usually had the adverse effect of making Ino’s natural overconfidence swell to even greater proportions, which in turn spurred her on to riskier behavior. In the end it spelled nothing but trouble for him. He eyed Ino warily while she took a moment to primp, feeling a quiet sense of dread building inside his gut.

Blast it all, how did I ever let myself get talked into this?

Sadly, Shikamaru already knew the reason why. The answer had left off fiddling with her hair and was now rubbing sinuously up against his side.

“You’re too tense,” murmured Ino as she glided her hands across the taut muscles of his arms and shoulders. When he failed to respond, she slid a hand down his torso and rubbed along his stomach. “Really, Shikamaru - you need to relax a bit more.”

“Can’t hardly help it, with my back to the enemy,” muttered Shikamaru sarcastically. He stole a peek down the opening of her blouse and then determinedly shut his eyes. And your hand mere inches from my -

Shikamaru abruptly sat up in his seat, prompting Ino to leave off her caresses. Observing his stiff posture, she bit back an impish grin. Oh, this was going to be fun. She couldn’t help it; there was something intoxicating about strutting through the crowded room that had unleashed her libido. Though she knew every eye had been watching, she had only been aware of Shikamaru’s burning gaze following her across the floor. Just knowing again how much he wanted her sent shivers of anticipation racing through her nerves. Feeling recklessly emboldened, Ino twisted her body sideways and leaned in until she was pressing her breasts firmly against Shikamaru’s arm. He almost jumped at the contact.

“What’s wrong?” she asked, too innocently. Shikamaru narrowed his eyes in warning.

“This isn’t the place for that,” he hissed with mounting frustration, all too aware of her familiar softness rubbing enticingly against his skin. He had to get her to stop - she never seemed to understand how hard it could be to control his body when she touched him like this. “Damn it, Ino, we’re in public.”

But she merely smiled coquettishly and proceeded to slowly draw her breasts along his arm. “It’s okay; we’re in a booth,” Ino purred, grateful for the thinness of the fabric - she knew he could feel everything. “Besides... I want you to be all hot and bothered right now.” And with an audience to boot, she added silently, knowing better than to remind him of the fact.

Almost as if he had read her mind, Shikamaru suddenly went rigid like a statue. Ino arched her brows in surprise: she could feel his heart hammering madly in his chest. “We-are-in-the-middle-of-a-mission,” he finally managed to choke out through gritted teeth.

Ino couldn’t help giggling at the helpless expression on his face. For a genius, Shikamaru could still be so wonderfully clueless at times. “Silly boy, haven’t you figured it out yet?” she whispered coyly up at him. “This is part of the mission!”

And with that, Ino quickly slid over and into his lap. Before Shikamaru knew what was happening, her arms were wrapped around his neck and her hands were entwined in his hair. Then soft, warm lips molded themselves against his, and he felt the slow, sensual tug of her mouth working its irresistible magic on him.

Oh hell, thought Shikamaru desperately as two opposing facets of his psyche went to war. He had never wanted to be the type of idiot who listened to his little brain over his big one, yet the physical immediacy of Ino’s body pressed to his was decisively overwhelming any rational objections. Feeling the last flimsy piece of resistance crumbling inside, Shikamaru cursed himself. He was that kind of idiot.

Then he gave in.

Ino’s eyes opened briefly as she felt Shikamaru’s mouth yielding to hers before fluttering shut again. Soon his arms wound their way around her back and he began deepening the kiss. Within seconds her heartbeat rose to join his, and a victorious ecstasy filled Ino’s heart. She gave herself up to the moment, reveling in the joy of once again being lost in their own private world.

But it wasn’t long before reality encroached again.

The clinking of bottles alerted Ino to someone moving along the aisle, gradually approaching their table. Breaking the kiss, she brought her mouth around to his ear. “Here comes a waitress,” she whispered quickly. “Order us some sake, okay?”

The slightly glazed look in Shikamaru’s eyes instantly vanished. Ino felt his body automatically freezing up beneath her as he seemed to come to his senses. “What?”

Uh-oh, thought Ino, sensing that Shikamaru was about to revert back into his more coldly logical mode. She couldn’t let that happen just yet. Seizing on the only thing she could think of, she started to nuzzle his ear. “Please,” she whispered again. “We really need it.”

“Ino...,” Shikamaru began, but stopped almost immediately as his thoughts unexpectedly scattered. His eyes nearly rolled back in his head from the sensation of Ino gently sucking on an earlobe. Then she let go.

“Do it,” Ino murmured, brushing her lips slowly over his temple. “You’ll see why.”

Succumbing to the inevitable, Shikamaru tried not to groan aloud as Ino returned to nibbling on his ear. It strongly put him in mind of things he could be doing with his own mouth, if only he had a private room and a nice, flat surface to lay her out on...

Get a grip, Shikamaru warned himself sternly before his body could overreact to the image. You’re on the job, he added, though calling this ‘work’ was undoubtedly pushing things too far. Still, he had to admit that so far Ino’s unconventional little plan was working, reckless as it was. But the request for sake was baffling - he knew she was too smart to do something like getting drunk in the middle of an operation. Was it just another ‘prop’ to add to their image? Yeah, that was probably it. He then wondered if the waitress would reject the request, pointing out that they were obviously underage... but a seedy establishment like this one probably didn’t even care.

Shikamaru sighed as the waitress drew close. This is turning into one hell of a mission.

[Fanfic][Naruto] Ino's Secret Kissing Jutsu, Part Three

2007-12-13T16:48:25Z

Part Three: Infiltration
----------

Outside the inn, a thuggish man was leaning back against the wall as his eyes roamed over the roadway, covertly scanning the face of every passerby. Though on guard duty, he only had half a mind on his job and was wishing he could slip back inside for another drink when his attention was drawn to an approaching pair.

Well, what do we have here?

It was a couple... a teen couple, plainly heading in his direction. The man beetled his brows curiously. While this inn attracted a wide assortment of clientele, it was not the kind of place that invited a younger crowd. But his misgivings began to fade once he got a better look. These two appeared to be a rougher sort after all. The girl (who he noticed first) was dressed very provocatively, and the way her long blonde hair flowed along her curvaceous body briefly caused his mind to wander far from any job related duty. As enticing as she was to leer at, however, the man couldn’t forever ignore the boy she was clinging to. He was grudgingly spared a cursory inspection, which in the guard’s view was enough to peg him as another stupid young punk trying to make a big impression. Unlike his companion, there was nothing much striking about his features apart from the hard-edged expression in his eyes, and he was soon abandoned in favor of his girlfriend.

The guard continued watching silently as the couple stopped just outside the inn’s entrance, peering through the doorway at the room filled with diners. Though now largely unconcerned, he still kept an ear open as they began to talk.

“Come on, let’s get a booth,” said the girl first. She suddenly twisted and threw her arms about the boy’s neck, causing him to stiffen in surprise. “Wouldn’t that be nice?”

“Eh? There’s a perfectly good table over there.” The guard saw the punk gesture at a vacant one not far from the group of men that happened to include his boss, Gaijo. “Wouldn’t that be all right?”

“But I want a booth. I think it would be much better,” insisted the girl. She stood on tiptoe and drew in even closer, batting her lovely eyelashes flirtatiously up at her boyfriend. “Pretty please?”

The punk frowned, but his ears reddened slightly as she ran her finger playfully along his cheek. “Fine,” he sighed heavily after a moment. “We’ll sit wherever you want.”

The girl responded with a radiant smile that quickly turned into a light kiss. Happily pulling away, she winked and then sexily swayed her way inside the inn. Her boyfriend looked disgruntled as he watched her enter, his fierce eyes betraying a mix of anxiety and longing. Observing this, the guard smirked to himself.

Ha! He’s whipped.

Suddenly a tremor raced through his blood, and the guard looked up to see the punk glaring coldly as if he knew exactly what the older man was thinking. But he abruptly broke contact and followed after his girlfriend, leaving the guard with a peculiar impression. There was something about those piercing eyes... hadn’t he seen them somewhere before...?

... Like in a bingo book?

Yeah right. He quickly dismissed the thought, overly amused by the idea. It was obvious that the kid was just another average, cocky jerk who had somehow gotten luckier than he knew he had a right to and was typically overprotective of his hyper-sexed girlfriend. The lucky bastard.

Satisfied, the guard returned to watching the road.

[Fanfic][Naruto] Ino's Secret Kissing Jutsu, Part Two

2007-12-13T16:43:10Z

Part Two: Preparations
----------

“I’m still not so sure about this idea of yours, Ino. And why did you pull me in here?”

“Relax, Shikamaru. Everything will work out fine. And we’re stopping here for a minute because we have to make a few small adjustments first...”

They were standing within a small copse of trees, using the privacy to mask their final preparations. Somewhere nearby Choji and his partner were concealing themselves in the trees she and Shikamaru had previously inhabited; after a quick consultation they had been assigned to provide support should things go awry and rapid extrication became necessary. Ino was glad for this turn of events. Quite apart from having the assurance of knowing Choji had their backs, it was a relief not to be under his direct scrutiny for the actual execution of her plan. Mission or no, she highly doubted Shikamaru would be cooperative if they were forced to perform before such a familiar audience. It was hard enough simply convincing him to go along with the first part.

And she hadn’t yet filled him in on the rest.

This thought in mind, Ino determinedly placed her hands on her hips and swiftly sized up her jutsu partner. Shikamaru was watching her warily, his mouth pulled back into a full blown pout. She scowled, reading the signs: he was about to start acting mulishly.

“What do you mean by ‘adjustments’?” he asked a moment later, confirming Ino’s suspicions. “What exactly do we need to adjust? Hey, is there something you -?”

“Don’t look at me like that!” she said sharply, cutting across him. “It’s all right; this is simply part of the plan. Now take off that vest.”

“Huh?” Shikamaru paused mid-gripe, looking at her strangely. Then he narrowed his eyes. “What for?”

“Oh honestly,” snapped Ino, resisting the old urge to stamp her foot. “Listen, this is all part of our preparations, okay? So just take it off!”

“Actually, I’d rather not. I feel naked without it,” he insisted stubbornly.

“You can’t wear it inside, Shikamaru - you know it identifies us with the Leaf!” Before he could protest any further, Ino took matters into her own hands by stepping forward and grabbing hold of the vest. With a well-practiced tug, she slid the offending material off, in the process taking along the headband he wore around his arm. “This too,” she added, expertly slapping his hands away as she seized the underlying black shirt and pulled it up over his torso. Stripped clothing in hand, she stood back to survey him once more, ignoring the distinctly ruffled expression on his face.

“All right, that’s much better,” said Ino approvingly. Then her eyes fell on his thigh holster. “But you’re leaving the trench knives behind, too.”

“Yeah, right. I don’t think so.”

“Why not? It’ll look dumb if you leave them on!”

“No,” answered Shikamaru, his voice edged with a finality that told Ino he wouldn’t budge on this. “Ino, whatever attempt at disguise you think this is, we’re about to enter a place full of lowlife criminals who will slit our throats in a second if they catch us. No way are we going in there without these.”

Ino sighed, acceding the point. “Fine. In that case...”

Before Shikamaru knew what was happening, Ino reached up and undid the tie holding up his ponytail. In a moment he saw black hair swinging freely around his eyes.

“Great. And this doesn’t look dumb,” complained Shikamaru as he attempted to brush the bangs back. He hated having it hang in his face. “Tch. Why’d you do that for?”

“Need I remind you that your face is already in the bingo books?” said Ino quietly, fighting off the cold chill that spiked inside her at this recent discovery. “We’re not going to help anyone in there identify you, got it? Besides... it completes the image.”

Shikamaru groaned, but said nothing more and Ino smirked at having managed to prevail. She knew he disliked letting his hair loose, but she secretly loved the way it made him look. Somehow it felt like the way she treated her own hair: she only let it down for special occasions - particularly those involving him.

Ino stepped back to appraise him once more. Shikamaru stood with his arms crossed angrily, clad only the mesh top and black pants, one baleful eye glaring back at her through the curtain of unkempt hair. Ino was pleased at the overall effect: he was the typical portrait of a pissed-off teenage boy. She broke into a grin.

Perfect!

Shikamaru’s frown increased at the expression on Ino’s face. “Dare I ask what ‘image’ you’re aiming for?” he muttered.

It was all Ino could do not to giggle: Shikamaru wouldn’t take it well, and she needed to keep him in relatively good humor just then. So she batted her eyes innocently as she began to remove the mesh guards from her limbs. “Well, you need to look the part if we’re going to successfully infiltrate that inn without looking out of place.”

“I thought the plan was to act like two regular travelers simply stopping for a quick break,” said Shikamaru, his eyes widening in alarm. “And just what the hell are you doing now?!?”

Ignoring him, Ino stepped out of her shorts and pulled the skirt around so that the slits fell over her thighs. Then she began adjusting the zipper on the front of her blouse. “Don’t be silly, Shikamaru. If we did that, they’d be watching us like hawks from the moment we walked through the door. Like I said, we need to fit in.” Letting go of the zipper, she reached up and began untying her hair. “And the only way we can do that realistically is if you go in there acting like some young badass out to prove his toughness...” Ino paused to shake out her hair, and then she flashed him a serene smile. “... while I am going to play the part of his sexy, adoring girlfriend.”

Shikamaru’s mouth fell open slightly as his gaze dropped automatically to focus on the lush mounds that now peeked out at him. His cheeks reddened as he deliberately tore his eyes away.

“Damn it, Ino...” he whispered hoarsely.

Excitement rushed through Ino’s blood at the sight of his face. She had always wanted to walk openly into some public place with Shikamaru on her arm, but the thorny issue of keeping their relationship a secret was ever paramount. Ino couldn’t help feeling that he was sometimes too strict on that point - what was wrong with a little innocent hand-holding? - but Shikamaru was such a cautious person. It was such a contradiction, that he could be so reserved in public and yet so demonstrative in private. But now, at last, she’d finally found a way around his unyielding stance.

Yet just as Ino was feeling secure about the victory within her grasp, she heard Shikamaru clearing his throat - an ominous sound she had learned meant that he was about to deliver some dire announcement. Heart beating anxiously, she noticed that he had turned his back to her.

“This is a bad idea, Ino,” Shikamaru told her flatly as he shoved his hands inside his pockets. “Drop it, ‘cause it’s not gonna work.”

“But... why?” Ino looked at him bewilderedly. “Why shouldn’t it work? Shikamaru, they’ll be on guard for any outsider approaching them today, no matter what they look like - but no one will think twice about two stupid, show-off teenagers! So what’s the big deal with that?”

Shikamaru glanced back over his shoulder, but only briefly before looking elsewhere again. “So maybe I’m starting to have second thoughts,” he muttered. “When I think about it, there are other ways we could still do this. And a lot more inconspicuously besides...”

“Inconspicuously?” repeated Ino, feeling a prickle of hurt annoyance mixed with disappointment shoot through her. Why was he being so stubborn about doing something like this with her? She thought he would have leapt at the chance for this kind of opportunity - Heaven knew how badly she was aching for it herself. “Why do we have to worry about that? No one around here knows who we are. Besides, you know the plan makes complete sense for the situation - and we’ll be far less ‘conspicuous’ than you think.” Ino abruptly turned away, cradling her arms protectively. Then before she could help it, she heard herself giving voice to a hidden fear she was loathe to admit. “Or... is it really because you have a problem being seen with me in public?”

She heard movement, and then she felt Shikamaru’s grip on her shoulders as he pulled her around to face him. He was upset. “That’s not fair, Ino. You know that’s not the reason why we have to be discreet.”

But Ino merely closed her eyes, not wanting to hear his perfectly rational arguments for their secret relationship. Instead she found herself swooning at the feel of his hands on her at long last. Pushing aside her sadness, Ino instinctively pressed herself up against his chest, relaxing in the comforting steadiness of his arms. “But there’s no one around now, Shikamaru,” she whispered. “Can’t you just... bend a little?”

Ino felt his body stiffen. “We’re still on a mission,” Shikamaru replied thickly. “We can’t just act however we want.”

Maybe it was something in his tone. Or perhaps it was the sound of his heartbeat thumping loudly next to her ear. As Ino pulled away from Shikamaru, the lonely confusion she had been experiencing was replaced by that strange cool-headed state she often entered into while observing a heated battle. Gazing steadily into his eyes, she instantly sized up the situation, knowing what she had to do to win.

“It’s true - this is a mission. We’re trained ninja, and we can’t lose sight of that fact... no matter what else we’re feeling. I guess you’re right about that.”

For several seconds they faced each other silently, each gauging the other more as opponent than comrade. “... I’m glad you see it my way,” Shikamaru finally answered carefully.

“Yes, I do.” Ino thrust out her chin defiantly, her voice reverting to its old bossy genin authority. “Therefore, your objections are totally pointless, Nara. We’re going to proceed with my plan. Now get ready to go!”

“Hold on a minute!” retorted Shikamaru sharply. “You’re not the team leader, Ino - I am! And we’re not about to -”

“You are a strategist,” continued Ino, talking loudly over him. “Already widely known as one of the best in Konoha. And you need accurate information to do your job well. Isn’t that why you accepted this job when the Hokage asked for volunteers? It’s vital that you find out what’s been passed on to Gaijo, so you can know how best to defend the village against anything he might try to do. Failure of this objective isn’t an option... correct?”

But Shikamaru refused to answer, choosing instead to glare back at her with a stoney face. Ino pressed on ruthlessly:

“And I am a spy, someone fully capable of gathering that information for you, which is specifically why you brought me along on this mission. Moreover, as a descendent from a family of spies, I’ve been trained all my life for this kind of thing - and you also know that my instincts for these situations are even better than yours.”

Shikamaru scowled darkly. “I disagree.”

Ino felt her temper rising, but she pushed on. “So seeing how this is fundamentally a spy mission, and how I’m the only one here who is capable of accomplishing this with a reasonable chance of success, I’m going into that bar now - with or without you!”

“Like hell you will, Yamanaka!”

In spite of herself, Ino raised her brows in alarm: Shikamaru rarely sounded so commanding with her. He had also closed the distance between them and seemed ready to perform the Kagemane no Jutsu on her. But she wasn’t about to back down now. “Then by all means, Shikamaru, come along and help me complete the mission - the way you’ve been trained to. For pity’s sake, be reasonable about this!”

A funny look crossed Shikamaru’s face. At first his annoyance seemed to increase, and then he heaved a great sigh, the fight instantly going out of him. “All right... you win.”

Ino sighed too, feeling more irritated than pleased. It was not the victory she had wanted, but... it would have to do. “Okay then,” she responded, impulsively running her hands over her outfit once more. “We’ve wasted a lot of time. Let’s get started now.”

“Yeah, yeah.”

Her fingers faltering over her bust line, Ino glanced hesitantly over at Shikamaru, anxiously probing his face. Regardless of who had “won” the argument, there was something far more important she had to know. Everything would be meaningless otherwise.

“Shikamaru... don’t you trust me?”

He frowned, and for a frightening moment Ino thought Shikamaru was about to say something cutting. Then the grumpiness lifted from his demeanor, and he looked at her seriously.

“Yeah, Ino... I do.”

Ino’s eyes softened. She moved up beside Shikamaru and slid her arm through his, and her heart skipped a beat when he didn’t move away. Her excitement returned. This was going to work!

“Then let me handle this,” she told him gently. “And no matter what happens... follow my lead, okay?”

“How troublesome,” he muttered.

[Fanfic][Naruto] Ino's Secret Kissing Jutsu, Part One

2007-12-13T16:38:56Z

Naruto Fanfic – “Ino’s Secret Kissing Jutsu”
Written December 2007 by Astra M.
----------

Part One: Mission Objectives

This is so tedious, thought Ino as she peered through the dense foliage that hid her. She broke her vigil to glance over at the dark haired young man who was crouching silently next to her, his attention wholly absorbed on analyzing the scene in front of them. Impulsively, her eyes began to move over the taut jaw line until they came to rest on the firm mouth, and a faint shiver swept through her. I wish I could be doing something else a lot more... interesting.

Unknowingly, she sighed.

“What is it?” murmured Shikamaru as he shifted next to her, bringing that mouth within inches of her own. Ino’s lids fluttered at the sensation of his warm breath tickling her ear. She wet her lips unthinkingly, imagining his moving heatedly across her skin, and a familiar yearning started to build up inside. What would it hurt, really, to steal a little kiss from him right now...?

Get a grip, girl! You’re in the middle of a mission, for Heaven’s sakes!

Ino pursed her lips in a silent pout. “It’s... nothing,” she whispered, lifting her eyes upward. She thought this would be less distracting, but instead found dark, penetrating eyes holding hers. Unexpectedly, Shikamaru slowly dipped his gaze downward until he came to linger on her mouth, and another tremor passed through Ino as she melted under the heated glow she saw sparking from within him. An imperceptible, electric current suddenly erupted between them, leaving Ino breathlessly longing to follow its pull until her tongue was once more helplessly entwined in his...

Shikamaru grunted softly and abruptly shifted away. He returned to his quiet stake out, his demeanor again perfectly calm and unruffled, leaving Ino feeling both bereft and frustrated. How did he do that? How was he able to bring her blood to a near boil, haplessly responding to the silent fire in his own, and in the next minute return to being such a seemingly unaffected cold fish?

No fair, Shikamaru!

Agitated, Ino again tried to focus her attention on the job at hand, but it was useless. Her concentration was thoroughly shot. This was poor discipline on her part, Ino knew, as well as atypically careless: the kind of behavior that could ruin a mission or get someone killed. And she especially couldn’t afford to be stupid - they were on a spying mission, after all, against a suspected informant operating inside the Land of Grass - it was vital she keep her wits sharp so deep in enemy territory. Even now they were staked out across from a seedy establishment on the outskirts of a large town, waiting for their target to make contact with a local arms merchant named Gaijo. When the opportunity came, Ino would strike with her Shintenshin no Jutsu and they would glean what knowledge they could from the unwitting men’s meeting. If all went well there would be minimal risk to the team, according to Shikamaru’s plan: they would be back in Konoha within the week. So it all came down to how Ino played her part... and for that, she had to keep her mind on task.

Her brain understood all this. But her body, it seemed, had other ideas.

I just can’t help it, fretted Ino as she fought the urge to abandon pretense and just mope over Shikamaru. It had been a week since she last felt his lips on hers, and longer since she had felt their ardent massage elsewhere. She suppressed a moan, feeling a dull ache stir within at the memory of their last private session together. Shikamaru had been in fine form that afternoon, and Ino realized now that it was because he already knew about this mission. Since they had left Konoha, he hadn’t laid so much as a finger on her. While she knew that this was done to conceal their relationship from the others, Ino still found Shikamaru’s behavior both aggravating and bitterly ironic. Teenage boy or not, maybe he was really some sort of sexual camel, able to store up their lovemaking like water and draw on it at leisure. But Ino knew she wasn’t the same. She needed his touch, not the mere memory of it...

Shikamaru shifted again, clucking his tongue in irritation.

“This is turning into a complete waste of time,” he muttered, pulling himself further away. Ino was surprised at the tone of Shikamaru’s voice: he sounded unusually surly and impatient, more like his old genin self. She watched as he jerked himself off the ground and into a sitting position, and ran a thumb exasperatedly across his brow. “I knew we were taking a risk by not intercepting the target earlier. If we tried to grab him before he came here, it could be troublesome for you to bluff your way into Gaijo’s circle, and your jutsu might not last long enough to learn anything. But Gaijo’s men have him so well guarded... I’m afraid we may have lost the chance to do this from a discreet distance.” Shikamaru broke off, his forehead creasing in frustration, and Ino had the impression that he was angry with himself. “If we’re going to pull this off, we need to get physically closer to him. There’s nothing else for it,” he said flatly. “But how the hell are we supposed to do that now without tipping them off?”

While Shikamaru fell into silent contemplation, Ino sighed again. We need to get physically closer. Here was yet more bitter irony she could do without. What did she care about drawing nearer to some shady, slovenly middle-aged man when the one she wanted to throw herself at right now was him? Ino couldn’t help feeling a stab of resentment at her life’s chosen path just then. It would be so nice, every once in a while, to forget that she was a proud kunoichi of the Hidden Leaf, just to be able to act like a normal teenage girl and -

An idea suddenly popped into her mind, causing Ino to let out a gasp of delight. Shikamaru looked over at her questioningly, lifting a brow even further when he saw the impish smile that had spread across her face.

“Listen, Shikamaru... I know how we can do it.”

Fanfic Author Notes - If Only I Could Make You Mine

2007-12-02T15:10:39Z

***FanFic Vital Stats***

Title: If Only I Could Make You Mine
Fandom: Naruto
Pairing: Shikamaru x Ino
Other Characters: Choji, Choza, Shikaku, Inoichi, Mrs. Yamanaka
Format: Vignette
Genre: Drama/Angst
Rating: PG-13, for teen sexuality
Warnings: none, 30Kisses Theme
Tag Line: “I thought you were a genius,” he said shortly. “So tell me what part of 'no' don’t you understand?”

***FanFic History***

This began as an idea for a longer, angstier storyline that I realized I don't really want to write. I also wanted to explore the type of scenario that might cause a real blow up among the Shika-Ino-Cho generations. True, while I personally think the fathers would be thrilled if their children got married, wouldn't it be interesting to know what might cause them not to be so gung-ho for it? But poor Inoichi, he comes out looking bad here and he only has Ino's best interests at heart...

[Fanfic][Naruto] If Only I Could Make You Mine

2007-12-02T15:00:33Z

Naruto Fanfic – “If Only I Could Make You Mine”
Written December 2007 by Astra M.
----------

This wasn’t how it was supposed to go.

Shikamaru felt powerless, bewildered by the paralysis that had overcome his body. He was aware of Ino’s arms wrapped around his neck and her lips pressed desperately against his, as if she was trying to pour all her feelings into one kiss. A voice in his mind was screaming that he needed to be kissing her back now, and he began to comply - but then their lips broke contact as she was forcibly yanked from his arms.

At this, sensation poured back into Shikamaru’s limbs. He came to life again with a cry, lunging forward to pull Ino’s struggling form back against his.

Choji had to restrain him.

“Get back inside the house, Ino,” snapped Inoichi. He had an iron grip around his daughter’s upper arm, heedless of the way it caused her face to screw up in pain. But the tears in Ino’s eyes were caused by something else.

“No, Daddy! I won’t go - I want to stay with Shikamaru!”

“Get back inside!” roared Inoichi, the fury in his eyes lending terror to his countenance. “Do it now, Ino, or so help me, I’ll...!”

He raised a hand as if to strike her, and Ino quailed, frightened at seeing her father like this. Mrs. Yamanaka sprang forward then, gathering her sobbing daughter into her arms and pulling her aside. But as she led Ino away, she shot Shikamaru a look mixed with pain and accusation that caused him to flinch. He could do nothing but watch helplessly as the pair disappeared into the house, and then confusion gave way to anger.

“Why?” demanded Shikamaru suddenly, wheeling on Inoichi. “Why?!?”

Inoichi’s expression remained cold. “I thought you were a genius,” he said shortly. “So tell me what part of no don’t you understand?”

“That’s not an answer.” Shikamaru struggled to keep his voice steady and failed. “Give me a reason, damn it!”

“A reason?” Inoichi laughed humorlessly. “What makes you think you’re entitled to one, Shikamaru? But then I suppose you believe you’re entitled to whatever you want, given your status among the village elders. You’ve certainly behaved as if you were entitled to my daughter.”

Shikamaru’s back stiffened and he pressed his mouth into a thin, defiant line. Inoichi’s wrath grew as he examined the teenager’s face. Eyes narrowed, he leaned in closer.

“I once had such high hopes for you. You were almost like a son. But now I don’t care if you’re a genius, or if the elders would prefer to look the other way for the sake of their valued tool. You’ve wounded me greatly, Shikamaru,” muttered Inoichi in a brittle voice. He then glanced sideways pointedly. “As did you.”

Shikaku’s grim face wavered slightly at the accusation. But he said nothing, instead choosing to gaze steadily back at Inoichi, until the other man’s temper snapped.

“Since when does a man of honor allow his son to use a friend’s daughter as his personal plaything?” demanded Inoichi vehemently. “And don’t tell me you didn’t know about it, Shikaku!”

Sighing, Shikaku glanced briefly at his son before addressing his old teammate. “I did have my suspicions, Inoichi. But Shikamaru’s old enough to know his own mind,” he answered quietly. “As is Ino.”

“And what convenient reasoning that must be for you, magnanimously granting him such personal liberty when it’s my daughter who will have to pay for it!”

“My son is very aware of his share in the matter,” asserted Shikaku, his tone hardening.

“He’d better be,” responded Inoichi darkly. “He’s the one who got her pregnant.”

A cold knot twisted in Shikamaru’s stomach at the pitiless reminder. He had never meant for this to happen. He had a plan that should have worked; he’d thought everything out thoroughly ever since the first time Ino had welcomed him into her bed. He knew what he wanted. Ino wanted it as well. It would take time for things to come together, and they were still underage, but in another year it wouldn’t matter - a new future would be within their grasp. And they’d been so careful, too.

Why did this have to happen now?

Shikamaru took another deep breath, again forcing his voice to remain steady. “Mr. Yamanka, I know that you’re angry with me. And I know you want what’s best for Ino. But I want her to be happy, too,” he pleaded. “I want to do the right thing... so why won’t you let me marry her?”

But Inoichi brusquely shook his head. “No. I could never leave my daughter’s fate in the hands of a mere boy.”

Shikamaru gritted his teeth, feeling as if he’d just been punched in the gut. “I’m not a boy,” he said tightly. “And regardless of what you think I love her as much as you do.”

Inoichi laughed then. “Do you honestly think that’s all it takes, Shikamaru? A declaration of love will make it all work out right? Frankly, your actions up until now tell me that you both have no idea what you’d be getting into. And I would be remiss if I sat back and did nothing to stop you from further messing up Ino’s life!”

Frustration rose up in Shikamaru, shattering his attempt to remain calm. “You don’t have the right to keep her from me!” he burst out. He barely registered Choji’s grip growing tighter.

“Oh yes, I do. And I will,” said Inoichi mercilessly. He suddenly looked over at Shikaku, eyes boring fiercely into the other man’s while continuing to address his son. “And not just for Ino alone. Even though you may be the father, the child my daughter bears will be entered in to the Yamanaka family registry.”

Shock rendered Shikamaru temporarily speechless, and then a primal kind of anger gripped him. His fists balled of their own accord. “You can’t do that!”

“The child carries the blood of the Nara clan,” protested Shikaku angrily, who likewise was clenching his fists. “It belongs with our family!”

“The same can be said of the Yamanaka clan,” retorted Inoichi, his jaw muscles tensing. “And it’s too late to start interfering now, Shikaku.”

“Just drop the crap, Inoichi.” Shikaku’s tone had hardened into a steely edge. He took a step forward, his hands out at his sides. “Why don’t you go ahead and take the swing you’ve been dying to throw at me since this whole conversation started?”

Inoichi’s hands twitched. “Don’t tempt me,” he warned.

“Then what about me?” Shikamaru was aware on some level that he was no longer thinking rationally. A hazy red cloud had fallen over him, goading him on with a naked urge to attack. “If this is about your honor, if it takes a duel to satisfy you, then come on - let’s go!”

It was the invitation Inoichi seemed to have been waiting for. With blinding speed, his fingers flew through a jutsu. Shikamaru was already readying his own counter-strike, his mind racing over attack scenarios when unexpectedly he felt himself being restrained. As he thrashed wildly, Shikamaru witnessed Shikaku apparently abandoning his jutsu techniques in order to leap forward and deliver a punch to Inoichi’s face, who had anticipated that and landed in a blow of his own - but then Choza was suddenly standing in their way. In an instant he had each large hand wrapped firmly around his teammates’ necks, dragging the grown men apart as easily as if they were children.

“Enough,” commanded Choza sternly, his deep voice booming through the street. He watched as his teammates slowly regained their composure, each glaring hatefully at the other, and wondered how this breach could ever be mended. Sighing, Choza then glanced over at his son and realized that Shikamaru was still struggling.

“Let me go, Choji! I have to do this!” he yelled at his best friend. But Choji shook his head emphatically.

“No, Shikamaru. You have to let it go for now,” he pleaded urgently. “If you do anything, you’ll only make Ino cry even more!”

Choji swung him in the direction of the Yamanaka house, forcing Shikamaru to look up towards the second floor. There he saw Ino’s tear-streaked face peering out from a window, startling him out of the blind rage. As he watched, she gently pressed her lips against the glass and drew back. Ino began mouthing something at him, but then her mother came to push her away and pull the shades down behind them. But Shikamaru had gotten the message.

I love you.

Feeling a return to his senses, Shikamaru sagged against Choji’s arms, grateful for their steadfast support. Then he looked up at the sky, which was distressingly bright for such a dark day, and made a silent vow.

You’ll see, Mr. Yamanaka. Whatever it takes, no matter what you do... I’ll still make Ino mine one day.

Writing Update - December 07

2007-12-01T13:07:24Z

Status of Works in Progress:

Bittersweet Sixteen: Since July (I think that was the last update), I've been bogged down in rewriting one particular scene. After the third rewrite I gave up in frustration for awhile. I finally seem to be getting it down (fourth time's the charm?) So progress finally resumes after a long break.

An Excessive Chain of Hugs: as stated before, it was a writing exercise to help me past the writer's fury with above. It is largely finished with only a few missing drabbles to wrap up. No biggie.

Scent of Grass and Flowers: a one shot idea for the theme "Dash" in progress, but it's trying to become too long a story and this won't do.

"Kissing Jutsu" (draft title): half written one shot that I'm not sure will ever see the light of day, but sometimes I poke at it.

Fanfic Author Notes - An Excessive Chain of Hugs

2007-11-26T03:13:41Z

***FanFic Vital Stats***

Title: An Excessive Chain of Hugs
Fandom: Naruto
Pairing: multiple, both romantic and platonic (or one-sided)
Characters: Akamaru, Asuma, Guy, Hinata, Ino, Kakashi, Kiba, Kurenai, Lee, Naruto, Neji, Sai, Sakura, Sasuke, Shikamaru, Tenten
Format: Drabbles
Genre: Angst, Humor, Slice of Life
Rating: Mostly G, but some scenarios may imply a slightly higher rating
Warnings: none, 15Hugs Theme
Tag Line: none

***FanFic History***

A strange exercise in writing drabbles and multiple pairings, using a common theme throughout with the goal that everything would come "full circle" as it were.

[Fanfic][Naruto] An Excessive Chain of Hugs

2007-11-26T03:05:28Z

Hug 15: KISS (Guy ~ Kakashi)
----------

“Are you sure that’s what it means?”

“I’m positive.”

“And that means I don’t have to, er, you know...?”

“No, you don’t.”

Kakashi could see by the look on Guy’s face that he was wavering. He had to seize the chance to end this now.

“It’s an acronym. K-I-S-S. It means whatever dare you decide to do, Keep It Simple, Stupid.”

Guy stared back at him, looking thunderstruck. Then he suddenly threw his arms around Kakashi, sobbing in relief.

Weakly returning the hug, Kakashi congratulated himself. This game of Truth or Dare was getting scary.

You’re a devious woman, Kurenai.

[Fanfic][Naruto] An Excessive Chain of Hugs

2007-11-26T03:04:18Z

Hug 14: Bear Hug (Lee ~ Guy)
----------

Even for them, the lesson was unconventional. It had been about making good impressions.

“People sense a lot about you based on your grip alone. So if someone offers you their hand, grab it! If someone hugs you, return it like you mean it!”

“Like this?” asked Lee, seizing his teacher around the waist. Guy laughed.

“Where’s your passion, Lee? Your fighting spirit? You can do better than that!”

Lee’s eyes ignited as he squeezed mightily. “How about this, Master Guy?”

“That’s - My - Boy!” gasped Guy proudly. “That’s... GAAAAHHH!!!”

He was laid up in the hospital for a week afterwards.

[Fanfic][Naruto] An Excessive Chain of Hugs

2007-11-26T03:03:10Z

Hug 13: Balcony (Neji ~ Lee)
----------

“Remember when our team first met on this balcony?” asked Lee as he gazed up at the stars. “The day we shared our future dreams with one another?”

“Yes,” said Neji quietly from behind. He sighed. “We were all very different back then.”

“Do... do you remember what you thought of me that day?”

There was a pause.

“I thought you were beneath me.”

Lee flinched, but only slightly. Keeping his eyes on the night sky, his jaw tightened with resolve.

“And... now?”

More silence followed. Then Neji placed a hand on his shoulder.

“I’m glad you’re at my side.”

[Fanfic][Naruto] An Excessive Chain of Hugs

2007-11-26T03:01:58Z

Hug 12: Worse Days (Tenten x Neji)
----------

He sensed her before she spoke.

“What is it?” Neji asked tiredly, wishing to be left alone. But Tenten kept quiet.

He turned away, expecting her to leave then. Instead he had the surprise of two arms slipping around his chest.

“We’ve all had worse days, but we should always expect better ones,” murmured Tenten as she gave him a light squeeze. “Especially when we have people who care deeply for us.”

Neji’s eyes went wide, but she said nothing more. A minute passed in silence until he lifted a hand and placed it gently over hers.

Thank you, Tenten.

[Fanfic][Naruto] An Excessive Chain of Hugs

2007-11-26T03:00:58Z

Hug 11: Glomp! (Akamaru ~ Tenten)
----------

Am I pretty?

It was not something she dwelled on, but sometimes Tenten couldn’t help wondering. Did her friends ever see her feminine side, or did they only see the tomboy?

So it was a shock, while lost in thought, to be knocked to the ground by an enormous mass of fur and furiously licked all over.

“Sorry, Tenten. Akamaru doesn’t know his own strength.”

“It’s okay. I know he’s just being friendly like a normal dog.”

“Friendly?” Kiba snorted. “He only acts that way with pretty girls!”

Tenten started. And then she began to smile.

You sly dog, Akamaru!

[Fanfic][Naruto] An Excessive Chain of Hugs

2007-11-26T02:59:31Z

Hug 10: Fur (Kiba ~ Akamaru)
----------

“We’ll be best friends forever, right boy?”

Whenever Kiba said this, Akamaru simply wagged his tail. He knew the cycle of life for his kind.

As a puppy, Kiba had carried him on his head. But their positions had since switched and he was the one carrying Kiba around. That was how it should be.

Some day, years from now, he would be the one with his head in his master’s lap, waiting to fall asleep for the last time. And the roles would go back to the way they had begun. But until then...

Best friends forever, Master Kiba.

[Fanfic][Naruto] An Excessive Chain of Hugs

2007-11-26T02:58:02Z

Hug 09: Teddy Bear (Hinata x Kiba)
----------

It wasn’t that he minded carrying her piggy-back down the crowded street.

Hinata was prone to fainting spells, but Kiba was always ready to help his fragile teammate. He might be a wild man on the surface, but he really was a gentleman at heart.

Still, there was only so much indignity any guy should have to put up with.

Kiba grimaced as Hinata’s arms tightened around his neck, and then he felt her face nuzzling into his back. Catching her faint mumbling, he flushed bright red.

“Damn it, Hinata! There’s nothing manly about being called a teddy bear!”