It was pretty early in the morning. The sun was barely even up. But it was better to do the paperwork at this time. It showed dedication and motivation. Two things she would need to keep showing. Even with her current stature and position, Kiyomi was certain that slacking off would give the wrong idea. Besides, if she would be able to finish work before the afternoon, she could have time to do other things. Sighing, she thought already of the several duties. Training her genins, attending to meetings if Hisoka called for her or else continue to keep on increasing her skill and or knowledge. Leaning back in her comfortable chair, she wondered how long it was going to take for Kazuo to fetch the person in the library.

Tatsuya was sitting in his usual spot, his weary eyes scanning the papyrus. His hand loomed over his notes, writing subconsciously from time to time. He had four different books on the desk, two of which were open. The two closed ones had "History of the Leaf" written on them. He sighed once every while, turning the pages of the books. The doors of the library opened as the personal butler of Azumi appeared. The silent man looked around for Tatsuya and once he had found him, the man walked towards the young Hon. Making a small bow, the man gestured Tatsuya to follow him.

Tatsuya quickly shut the books and pushed them aside, opening the other two books. He looked over to the source of the voice and saw that it wasn't Kiyomi. He had a relieved look on his face. The boy got up and took the scrolls he was writing with, putting them in his pouches. He followed the man. It didn´t take long before they were in front of the office. Opening the door, Kazuo would not enter himself. He left the door open so that Tatsuya could enter the room and close the door behind him. Kiyomi was now reading what seemed to be a small book. Next, there was a notebook and a pencil. Probably to note down something, as it was easy to see that she had already written something on the visible page.

Tatsuya walked inside, glancing at Kazuo as he did so. He shut the door after he walked in and turned to Kiyomi. "You called me, Kiyomi-san?" He stood patiently as he waited for an explanation as to why she'd called him during his study hours. He had his hands behind him with his fingers intertwined as he did so. ''Take a set, pup.'' Kiyomi calmly ordered as she kept on reading. Only once Tatsuya would take a seat, she would look up in his direction. ''What have you been studying lately?''

Tatsuya didn't answer for a moment. "Er... I've been studying the History of Leaf like you told me to," he said. "Though I have been spending some extra time at the library during the two days between my designated training time." He knew that she might object to him saying training but there really wasn't a better word for it. Simply nodding, Kiyomi seemed to ponder about something. ''What part of the history have you been studying then?'' Was her next question. She took the pencil and with her other hand, shoved the notebook in front of her.

"Ah... The Great Shinobi War," he answered. "I've been reading about the progression of the war but it's going slowly because I'm using multiple sources." His voice was calm and his posture was composed as he spoke. "Did you want to check up on my progress?" Kiyomi nodded. ''Yes. Why did you chose the Great Shinobi War for example? I want to know what you have read and learned from it. Everything.'' Her tone was somewhat stern and very serious.

Tatsuya stood still. After he thought of what he was going to say, he spoke, "Because it shows how states work during wars. What being a leader means. What it means to lose said leader during the war," he said. "It also shows that being a leader doesn't always mean fighting alongside your men, unlike what most people think." She seemed to listen to the words of Tatsuya. Once he had spoken, she quickly noted something down. Glancing back at Tatsuya, Kiyomi had another question ready to shoot in his direction. This time, her tone seemed to be more serious than stern. ''And that interested you, because?''

"Mostly because of what one could call an 'analogy' of this situation in cultural games like shogi," he said. "Once the king is down, you lose. Researching about the Great Shinobi War is a good way to understand the concept of leadership." Then Kiyomi reacted back. She made a brief gesture in the air with the pencil while responding back to Tatsuya. ''That is a certain good analogy. But what does make it so interesting then for you? The fact when an important person is gone that people give up on his cause or because people have impact on their village?''

"It doesn't have to be one or the other," he answered. "It's because people have impact on the village that the people giving up leads to its undoing, or at least its defeat." His gaze slipped from Kiyomi's face to above her shoulder and over to the windows behind her, glancing outside. Kiyomi noted something quickly again. She however frowned at what she had noted down and seemed to edited it. ''Is that so? Then I have an interesting question for you. Why is it that then that most people think that the life of a leader is more worth than many others?''

"Because the leader is someone who gives people instructions," he said. "Without instructions, people are free to do whatever they want but they don't know what they need to do. It's the concept of not being able to understand that makes them feel despair. Not everyone can think for themselves." He could go on about this for hours but felt that this was enough of an explanation.

''Good.'' Kiyomi made yet another note before she flashed briefly a smile in his direction. ''It is indeed true that many need somebody to guide them or at least show them what seems to be good or bad. Either for themselves or for the state.'' She paused. Placing down the pencil, she folded her hands together and looked a bit more serious again. ''What more have you read, pup?''

"I've read about the subject I've explained from several different sources, some written by people by the Mist Village rather than the Leaf," he said. "But in the end it's just different ways of wording it." The look in his eyes were quite serious as he spoke. While he hadn't done it now, he wasn't just making things up. Slowly a frown was appearing on Kiyomi's face. It looked like she was thinking about what he had told her. ''Why the Mist?'' Kiyomi asked in a curious tone. ''But I have to say that I am glad you look it from different view points. I wish I could get some books from writers of Sunagakure. That would have been fairly interesting.'' Putting the back of the pencil against her nose, she looked away.

"Because the best example to the fallen king is from Kirigakure," he said. "I thought that was a given." He continued staring past her outside. "In the end, it's all about how it's worded. What one could call a victorious conquest, another could call it forced occupation." Looking back, Kiyomi gained a little smile. Tilting her head a little bit to the left, the smile grew larger. Twirling the pencil in her hand, she replied back. ''It is a given indeed. I asked it because I found it a bit interesting. Much like you said, what one calls a victory the other will call it a humilation. I think that it is still dangerous to mention some names in the Mist.'' Kiyomi looked at her notebook, writing something down. ''Where there are victors, there are victims.'' She mumbled, but loud enough that Tatsuya could hear her.

Tatsuya nodded, agreeing with what she said. "Was there anything else you needed from me, Kiyomi-san?" he asked patiently. Though he wanted to get right back to his research, he didn't want to look too eager, since he was supposed to be looking up things on the history of the village, about which he'd already read several books. He understood what that was. There was no point in reading about it all over again in the boy's eyes.

''Yes. As matter of a fact there is another reason why I had let you came here.'' Kiyomi said. ''I wasn't planning on giving a history lesson, but it is good to hear you're studying like I have instructed. My next question is more about how you are doing with your taijutsu practise. Can you inform me about that?'' She asked. Truth be told, she had Kazuo watching over Tatsuya when he had the chance. Not in an obvious way, but if the butler had a chance, he would try to see how the genin was doing from time to time.

"It's going well," he answered. "During the past few days, I've only had the chance to practice alone but I still stay in the dojo practicing the moves I know." This part was completely true. He definitely didn't slack off during that period of time, since he had enough time to do that at home. ''I am glad to hear that. So that means if I test it out, that you are going to surprise me with something?'' Kiyomi asked with a sly smile. It wasn't a fair request. He had already told her that he had the chance to train alone, but nothing about improving his skill. But her question was also asked for a reason. There was something in the corner that made a low growling sound.

"No," he answered plainly. "I can't say that I've improved that much training alone. Without observation, it's hard to improve quickly. However, I do believe that if you tested it out, I would be able to learn more in those few minutes than I have in these previous days in the dojo." Kiyomi nodded as she stood up. ''I figured as much. Then we will go now. Also, Sharky said something interesting.'' Kiyomi told him, on a very friendly tone. Walking around her desk, Kiyomi placed a hand on Tatsuya's shoulder as she leaned with her rear against the desk. ''Have you only read about the history?'' Kiyomi asked, still using the friendly tone. But her bright green eyes were different. Maybe it was that she was closer, but her eyes seemed to be of darker green then before.

"I think I already said that I hadn't," he said with an almost confused visage on his face. "I've been in the library during the two days you had told me I didn't have to and during that time I continued doing my research on Time-Space ninjutsu." A light flicker of lightning appeared in front of Tatsuya's face. Kiyomi leaned a bit closer to the boy's face. ''I hate liars. Keeping something silent when I ask it, is the same as a lie.'' Kiyomi whispered. She squeezed with her hand, but not to the point of hurting Tatsuya. Slowly leaning back, she would release his shoulder. ''If you want to be my pupil, you want me to be fair and direct with you, don't you? It won't do you much good if I would lie, would it? Well?'' Kiyomi asked with a stern voice.

He kept his composition. "I thought I was allowed to do as I wished doing the two days," he said, trying to understand what she was saying. "And I thought my explanation about my research was adequate enough to remove doubt about how I was concentrated on studying on the topic you had given me, Kiyomi-san. I wasn't trying to keep information from you. It was quite irrelevant, wasn't it?"

''That isn't only, pup. I asked what you have been studying lately. The topic of Time-Space ninjutsu is vastly different from history.'' Kiyomi told him. Crossing her arms over her chest, she briefly looked at where the bandaged greatsword was. ''I have probably overreacted, but I want this to be a lesson. If I ask you something, you tell me everything, if the situation is possible. The same shall be returned as that is how a student and a mentor works. If I would maybe learn you a technique, but not tell you a part of it, would that help you?'' Kiyomi asked, but much time to answer wasn't given. ''No. It wouldn't. That and I had my fill of liars and deceivers.'' The last line was told with a softer and more disappointed tone. Not that it had something to do with Tatsuya or that she really called him one. ''Anyways pup, sorry. But I am not going easy on you. Lets just move on and later continue this talk. Agreed?''

A smile inappropriate for the subject of the conversation appeared on Tatsuya's face. Pup sounds like it's short for pupil... "I understand. I'll try to be more careful about the details in future cases," he said. He waited, still facing the windows, for her to tell him to follow her or to leave the room. Heading to the door, Kiyomi reached out for the door handle. Kiyomi wanted to say something, but she decided against it. Opening the door, she would then whistle while leaving the room. Not a few seconds later, Kazuo appeared. He made a bow to both the younger people. Kiyomi smiled in the butler's direction. ''Kazuo, would you be a dear and please go on a shopping spree? I need books. On the subject on Time-space ninjutsu.'' Kiyomi said. The butler made a bow as he then would head away. ''Come, pup.'' Kiyomi said, on a less friendly tone as she would start walking.

Tatsuya followed her out of the room. The smile on his face widened when he heard what she had told her butler. When she spoke again, he could feel that she was trying to equilibrate the kindness with a sterner act. He kept following her closely, making sure to not fall back too much. ''Though it may seem like I am doing this for you, I am expecting something first in exchange. Next time, I expect something in return.'' Kiyomi told him. Her tone was still stern as she kept looking on ahead. Opening the front doors of Azumi, she waited till he was outside before closing them. The dojo was after all next to the head building.

Tatsuya looked at her curiously, wondering what he could possibly have that she didn't. "Yes, Kiyomi-san?" he said, walking through the open door. Now outside, Kiyomi did briefly glanced at the gardens. It looked like it occupied her for a moment. ''You have to think what you will present as offer next time yourself. Just as lesson that knowledge is never free. Even if it seems so.'' Kiyomi told him as she turned around and would walk towards the dojo. It was a very nice day to be outside. There was a very soothing cool breeze, while the warm sun was present in the sky. But Kiyomi still went to the dojo. Opening the door, she saw that there was nobody there. Which was what she had hoped for, ''Show me a stance.'' Kiyomi instructed.

Tatsuya walked in and stood on one side of the dojo. He dragged one foot across the floor behind him, putting one hand under the other, his palms open and facing forward. He glanced at Kiyomi to see what kind of adjustments she would reccomend. Closing the door behind them, Kiyomi waited till he was ready. Placing her hands on her back, Kiyomi slowly walked towards Tatsuya. ''When a shinobi can't use his or her ninjutsu, genjutsu or any type of chakra moulding action, they are left to use taijutsu. It is one of the most basic things a shinobi needs to master.'' Kiyomi passed Tatsuya, lifting her right hand, only her index finger up. ''However, taijutsu is just like ninjutsu. It has a lot of fields and variations.'' Turning around, Kiyomi further eyes his stance. ''If you can't be good at taijutsu, you need to know how to keep your distance. However, that is a tactic many can't keep up. Certainly not when they are facing more than one enemy.'' Then it happened. Faster than Tatsuya likely had expect, Kiyomi's right foot moved between his.Sweeping his left foot away, her hand grabbed him by the shoulder to push him against the ground. He wouldn't hit the ground that hard as she wouldn't allow that.

''But if you are going to use taijutsu, your stance and reflexes need to be good enough to keep you standing.'' Leaning back, she offered hand to help Tatsuya up from the ground.

As Tatsuya colided with the ground, he let out a small grunt. He turned to Kiyomi and saw the hand offered to him. He hesitantly took it, getting up. He nodded at her explanations, showing he understood what she meant. In an instant, Kiyomi twisted his hand as she narrowed her eyes. The moment after, Tatsuya would land on his stomach, while Kiyomi had a knee in his back, still holding his hand. ''Also, never trust an opponent. Everybody has a trick up their sleeve.'' Releasing him, this time she would help him up, without any instant attacks. ''Now, show me a stance again.''

He took a step back, this time his eyes locked on Kiyomi, anticipating an attack to see if he'd react better than before. He was rather annoyed by her last act. His visage was serious and concentrated. His hands were in a position at which he could deflect a first high blow with his reflexes so he prepared himself mentally for another low attack.

Placing her hands on her back, Kiyomi took a step away from the genin. Walking again around him, she started to talk again. ''What more should be known about taijutsu is that it can be used in combination with ninjutsu. This allows a shinobi to get an advantage in close ranged combat.'' Kiyomi said. She now stood at Tatsuya's right side. Raising her right hand, she tapped him on the shoulder. ''A bit lower. Just like this.'' Placing only her right index and middle finger on the wrist of the hand, she would lower the hand a bit. ''Sometimes an opening can cost your life. But you can use that your advantage. Impatient enemies will try to keep pressure on you, wanting to keep you in defense.'' She kept walking, standing now in front of him. ''Hmm, here.'' Again, she placed both her right index and middle finger on him. This time on the top of his head. ''Keep your chin a bit lower. An uppercut can be a very nasty way to get knocked out.'' She told him. Taking a few more steps, she stopped. ''Can you tell me why taijtusu is more important when you can't rely on anything else?''

Tatsuya was cautious at first but when he realized what she was doing, he did as he was told, aided by her slight pushes. "Because Taijutsu doesn't require any tools or time to prepare unlike shurikenjutsu, kenjutsu, genjutsu or ninjutsu," he responded, memorizing the stance he was in. Again she placed her right index and middle finger on top of his head. ''Good answered.'' She told him with a soft friendly voice. Instead of adjusting or telling him what to adjust, he would feel a slight prick. Removing her hand, she placed it on her chain, her index finger patting against it. ''Now, we are going to play a game.'' Kiyomi said, her voice returning to stern. Standing at his back, she placed both hands at her back. ''We will do for now some theory work. I am standing behind you. Lets further assume you have an opponent in front of you. What would that make you do?''

He hesitated for a moment and looked at his stance. "Is he larger and faster than me?" he demanded, gulping. "If he's larger than me, I let him charge at me, sidestep at the last second and trip him, pushing down his back. If he's faster than me, I give a brief opening. Depending on his speed, he tries to take it. I use that to counter before he can strike me. If he's of the same physique as me, I try to attack first with a rising kick. If he dodges, I pressure him. If he blocks, I spin on the foot he catches and attack with the other one. If I'm for some reason unable to attack first, I try to parry each blow I can and dodge the others to get openings."

Listening to his words, Kiyomi started to walk around him again. Her eyes kept examing how he stood. How he breathed and other small details. ''That seems like a good plan. But what if he can read your movement? How would you react to such a foe, that is capable of such a feat?'' Kiyomi asked. She stopped at one point, just at his left side. She tilted her head as she looked at his footwork, but decided to not correct it. It was good as it was now.

Tatsuya's breathing almost stopped for a moment. He thought about what he would do if such a situation arose. "If he can read everything I do, I would retreat. If he can read what it looks like I'm doing, I'd make feints to try and trick him." And again she stood behind him. ''Relax now. That was enough for now.'' Kiyomi said. There was a bit of distance between them and if he would turn around, she would still have a stern expression on her face detailed. ''I need to ask something else now. You said at our first meeting you wish to surpass me. Yet, I see no chance yet that you might become able of doing that.'' She rather boldly claimed. ''You're a clever person, talented, yes. But there are some things you need to learn first. I will consider to appoint training session with other people, who will teach you more in other fields. People that are specialized in them. Cause if you wish to reach your goal, you will need to learn more than just from me.'' Kiyomi said, finally a little smile appearing on her lips.

Tatsuya relaxed his muscles when he heard her and let out a heavy breath. He looked up at her when he heard what she said next. At first, he started thinking about what he could've done wrong, but when he heard what she said next, he remembered hearing those words from her before. He nodded slowly. "I know..." he muttered. ''But time to head to the next step. We are going to train those reflexes first. If you can get caught while I am not even trying, it is clear we will need to work on that. Afterwards, we will see what you're going to train.'' Kiyomi said. Slowly taking a stance, raising her hands and spreading her footwork a bit, Kiyomi nodded. ''I am going to attack and you're needed to evade. Not block, but evade.''

Tatsuya nodded and he reclaimed the stance Kiyomi had corrected, standing just as he'd left it. He gulped as he prepared himself for the incoming blows which he would have to try and dodge. His stance showed that he was ready for the next 'exercise', one could call it. Lowering her stance, Kiyomi frowned. ''Hey pup.'' She then seemed to be confused. ''Are you afraid I am going to hurt you?'' She asked, further lowering her stance.

He didn't answer. He didn't want to speak and lose his concentration or ruin his posture by shaking his head. The determined look in his eyes showed that he didn't really care about it. He didn't think she would deal any serious blows but all of his concentration was now on dodging what she would throw his way. Without much of a warning, Kiyomi would raise her right hand, making it look like she was trying to swing it towards Tatsuya's face, only to then lower her hand. Her left foot was then raised, aimed to kick him in the side.

Tatsuya's first act was to skid backwards to avoid any incoming attack, right after he saw the hand move. He thought it would be best to try and observe how she would attack him as long as he could before trying to dodge in close combat. With skidding backwards, he would also be out of her legs reach. At least, that far that she would risk that he could counter it easily. Her leg raised, Kiyomi quickly pushed with her right foot, causing to jump lightly in the air. Turning around, she was trying to a spinning kick to keep up the momentum.

The boy saw her leap up and ducked under the kick which didn't have much maneouvarability in the middle of the air. Even on solid ground, changing an attack's direction would reduce its effect immensely. He took a mental note as he ducked out of the attack's way and leapt forward, close to the ground, rolling and pushing himself up with his arms as he spun, eventually landing on his feet.

Landing on her feet, Kiyomi made a quick roll and turned around as she got up swiftly. Slowly moving towards Tatsuya, she kept changing from stances. First she would raise her right hand, to then lower it as to change her footwork. Only when she was in range again, Kiyomi would raise her right foot in attempt to kick him at his left side.

Tatsuya stuck his elbow out and ducked again, keeping it out ready to push the foot up but he remembered he wasn't allowed to intercept attacks. He also couldn't afford any time mid-air which would render defense untennable. Pulling her leg back, Kiyomi lowered herself, placing both her hands at the ground. With a fast turn of her body, she kept her balance with staying low as she would try to sweep Tatsuya off his feet.

This time, the boy couldn't react. He felt his footwork get ruined and his back hit the ground. He thought she would go after him again in that state so he quickly pushed himself back, rolling once and then pushing himself hard from the ground, flipping in mid air and landing on his feet. She was alraedy standing, but seemed to not be considering to attack again. By the time Tatsuya would stand on his feet, Kiyomi stood in a more relaxed stance. Her left hand on her hip and her other hang at her side. ''Good. Take a moment rest.'' She told him. ''You did it well.''

When he heard the word "rest", Tatsuya fell back, though still sitting up. He heaved a sigh. "Thank you, Kiyomi-san," he muttered, resting himself as she had said. ''Thanking a person for kicking you to the ground? Pup, you're an odd one. That is for sure.'' Kiyomi said, sounding amused as she walked away to a closet that was present in the dojo. Opening the doors of it, she then was starting to look for something.

Tatsuya grinned widely once more at her comment, chuckling lightly. After a moment, he glanced over at Kiyomi, trying to see what she was looking for. Turning around, Kiyomi had a wide smile on her face as she held in both hands a short blade. And by the looks of it, it weren't practice blades either. But made of sharp steel. Walking a bit back, Kiyomi threw up one of the blades in an arc towards Tatsuya. ''Catch. Now, tell me something about kenjutsu.''

Tatsuya snatched the sword out of the air, catching it by the hilt. His eyes were opened wide as he did so. "Er... It's the art of using a sword for combat," he said. "It's like an alternative to taijutsu one uses if they have a sword." Spinning the blade with her fingers around the handle, Kiyomi listened to Tatsuya. Grabbing the handle firmly, she stopped the weapon from spinning. ''That is one way of putting it. But that is all you know about kenjutsu?'' She asked, still staring at the blade she held. It was not as long as a katana she normally used, more or less a ninjato.

He thought for a moment. "Isn't it?" he asked, unable to think of a more extensive explanation for it than the one he gave for taijutsu. "Some people do use it as a primary fighting style but... Only the most skilled ones." Turning her eyes back to Tatsuya, Kiyomi had a surprised look on her face. ''I was kind of hinting that kenjutsu also had different fields. Like kendo, the way to use the sword. Often meant on how to use the basic swordsmanship without the use of chakra, which is the field of kenjutsu. That kenjutsu is often used with techniques to increase the lethality of a sword or it is reach.'' Only after saying that, Kiyomi realized something. Sighing, she placed her left hand against her face. ''Sorry. I sounded like my kenjutsu mentor.''

Tatsuya nodded. "I see..." He looked at the sword. "We're not going to do the dodging exercise with swords, are we?" He really didn't want to get slashed if he couldn't do one part of the exercise correctly. ''No. You're not that far yet. What we are going to do is the basic movements. This is a ninjato. Not as long as katana or most swords.''

"Oh, alright," he said with relief clear in his voice. "What's the first exercise?" He hoped this would help him fight more efficiently, consideringing how he used his black short sword as a main weapon. ''First take the same stance as before.'' Kiyomi said as she would approach him. Turning the blade around, she would hold it in a reversed grip as her eyes would focus again on how the genin would take stance with the ninjato.

Tatsuya took his stance, this time pointing the sword forward with his left hand wrapped around the bottom of the weapon's hilt and the other right behind its guard. "Like this?" The blade was slightly tilted sideways but it was sticking straight out towards Kiyomi. His feet were just like before. Calmly walking towards him, Kiyomi examined his stance. Using her unarmed hand, she made him change his stance a little bit. Just a bit. But she was content after it. Standing next to him, with some space of course between them, she would take the same stance. Only now holding the blade in the same manner as him. ''I will perform a movement. Slowly. You copy me. Once I am sure you have done them all without much of a flaw, we will continue in a faster pace.'' Kiyomi told him, very slowly moving her arm to perform how a slash could be performed with a quick movement of mere the wrist than the whole arm.

Tatsuya nodded and memorized the stance she had corrected. He observed her next movements attentively. He copied her move, using his wrist to swing the short sword with the same speed as her. He concentrated on his own sword for a moment, tweaking the few errors he'd spotted and corrected them, performing the move once more. Waiting as she had noticed he had seen his own errors, Kiyomi managed to not smile. She had almost said what he had done wrong, but he had noticed it himself. That was good. Now she would do another move, using her arm more as stepping aside. Making it look like she was making the weapon turn with her, while it had actually lashed out. ''Much like taijutsu, movement is everything. Strength is important, but neither of us are people with a big amount of it. Silly as it may sound, but that is why we ''dance''. Being one with your sword, so others can't read it. While you ''dance'' around them, staying out of their reach.''

He turned his gaze to her as he noticed her move once more. He memorized her moves, repeating it in his head several times, keeping his eyes closed for a moment. He repeated it again and again until he opened his eyes, believing himself to be ready to reenact it. He copied it to the best of his ability. "I see." She lowered for a moment her blade. Though she seemed to be focusing on her own movements, this was like dancing for her. It was something that she had learned and practised for quite some time. First she thought she had seen a mistake. But it wasn't. Kiyomi felt a bit dumb, but she realized that they moved just differently. But so far, he was doing a good job. Taking the stance again, she would perform another move, but this time faster. Not that much, but just a bit.

Tatsuya kept repeating what he saw, mimicking her movements as she sped up a bit. The slow start had allowed him to get used to the small acceleration quickly, as it didn't seem like he was making any more errors than earlier. Slowly, but steadily, the speed of the movements were increasing. It didn't really became that fast until she had taught him the basics swings with letting him copying it. but at some point, she would just keep on moving until she noticed what his best speed was. For ten minutes, she kept at it. The last move was a quick sweep with the ninjato towards the right. Holding the weapon still, Kiyomi was unfazed by the ten minutes of wielding the weapon. She had experienced worse, so to say, underneath Kensuke's mentorship.

As they got faster and faster, Tatsuya tried to increase his consistency, though it tired him quite a bit. By the time they were done, he had to hold his breath from time to time in order to keep the weapon still. ''That is enough for now.'' Kiyomi said as she lowered the weapon. Letting the blade rest against her shoulder, she could see that it had wore Tatsuya a bit out. Not surprising, he wasn't that trained as long as she had been. ''You can take a break.'' She told him as she would snap with her fingers of her left hand. Right a second after, Kazuo opened the door and came to take the weapon from Kiyomi before he would walk and stretch out his hand, waiting for Tatsuya to hand over his. Kiyomi was already walking towards the doors of the dojo.

Tatsuya nodded and lowered the weapon as well. He looked at Kazuo for a moment and handed him the weapon. The boy sat down, his legs crossed. He watched Kiyomi as she walked towards the doors. He focused on regulating his breathing in order to quickly continue his training without wasting too much time resting. ''Break is over.'' Kiyomi said as she would just walk through the opening of the door. Outside, she glanced at the gardens before she would walk towards Azumi. There was something on her mind. During training Tatsuya, she was considering something. It was a small thing, but could have some importance.

Tatsuya quickly scurried to his feet and ran after her. Once he'd reached her, he continued walking right behind her. He stepped out of the open door and covered his eyes from the sun's glare. That was a rather short break, he thought to himself, huffing. He looked over at Kiyomi, watching her carefully to see what she would do or say next.

Walking towards the door of Azumi, Kiyomi opened it and would let it be open so that Tatsuya would be able to walk after her and close it. ''You told me that you want to surpass me, but I want to ask.'' Kiyomi kept on walking. ''How are you planning to do so? Not considering our differences, but you're not dumb. So what is your plan?'' Kiyomi calmly asked, still walking towards where she wanted to go.

He thought on the question for a moment. He'd never considered what one could call a plan. "You said you had a mentor to whom you claimed you'd surpass him, Kiyomi-san," he said. "Did you have a plan when you said that?" He smiled faintly as he spoke, hoping that she wouldn't see this as a snide remark or a retort.

''I most certainly had. I decided to walk a different path than he did. Those who have some courage don't walk the way that has been made by others.'' Kiyomi told Tatsuya as she would cast a glance sideways. Turning her head to look ahead, she continued. ''Those who have some courage and want to achieve something, make their own path. That was somewhat my plan.'' Kiyomi said. It briefly brought some memories up. Not all were good, but she wouldn't start to drown herself into the past. Coming near the library, she said something else. ''And it kind of depends on which mentor I actually surpassed. I believe that I have yet some who I not have surpassed.''

Tatsuya squinted his eyes. "I don't understand what you mean by path," he said. "It sounds more like a plan for what you want to do in life rather than a plan to surpass someone." He looked towards the building they'd neared in which he had been studying all morning. The boy imagined what she could have in mind if she was leading him there. Maybe she would watch him so he wouldn't study anything but Leaf history. He shuddered at the thought but quickly snapped back to reality, turning back to Kiyomi.

''Does it? It is a goal I had and yet, I haven't achieved it yet, have I now?'' Kiyomi asked back. They would turn around to walk into the library. Nobody was present. Not much to Kiyomi's surprise. Most were likely with their teams or doing their duties. ''You could say that it is maybe something I want to do in my life. Cause to be honest, I see little chance of surpassing those who I have yet to surpass. If I would just make it a goal and be content with that, then I wouldn't have likely the motivation or something like that, which I have now.'' Kiyomi explained. There was one thing she didn't say however. Though she wouldn't mind to help Tatsuya train or talking about surpassing, there was one little detail that almost everybody forgot when they said they wanted to surpass somebody. But maybe he would learn it like her in time. ''Now, I think I have talked enough about it as it seems you still need to think on how to surpass me. But first things first!'' She pointed to a direction of the library. ''I want you to pick up some scrolls or books that are about summoning techniques.''

A wide smile appeared on his face as it would on a child who was given the chance to choose any toy he wanted from the store. Tatsuya nodded and darted off into the building. He already knew where all of them were, having checked them out before. He picked some scrolls he wasn't familiar with and a book he knew to be helpful. After having signed the book on his name so that he would be able to take it with him, he ran out of the library.

Heading back to her office, Kiyomi was thinking about something. She heard something and noticed Tatsuya running out of the library. ''Over here pup. Come.'' Beckoning him to follow her to her office, Kiyomi started to explain already the next part. ''You mentioned several times about Space Time ninjutsu. Even studied it already, but are you already capable of a ninjutsu that is related to that field of ninjutsu?'' Kiyomi asked.

Tatsuya shook his head. ''The technique I showed off earlier isn't what it seems, really. I don't split my body into different pieces but rather use the crows as a storage to move. While that's a really unimpressive and weak technique, it can be considered as a Space Time technique," he said rather proudly.

''Oh? Then you could consider any hidden movement as Space Time Ninjutsu. If you would use the crows as a storage to move around, it would be more a way to try to hide yourself from the opponent. Though I lack the abilities of eyes like that of the Sharingan, I doubt that it would hide yourself from such dojutsu. Space Time ninjutsu is more instant. It is like that you're on spot A, but later without moving like walking or through a technique, on spot B. That is why you should learn about the Summoning technique. That is a technique that is in the field of Space Time ninjutsu.'' Kiyomi explained. ''Cause instead of moving, I use chakra and a bit of blood to summon one of my summonings to me. This means they don't have to move in any kind of way, but yet will appear when I summon them. That is the difference, though I think that there might be an even more complex story behind it all.'' Kiyomi giggled briefly as she would walk into her office. The bandaged blade made a brief deep sound. Scoffing, Kiyomi continued to her desk as she would take place behind it. ''Though, you don't need a summoning contract to study it. But if I have to make a suggestion, then I would advise to study how the summoning technique work before moving to something more complex.''

He scratched his head for a moment to find a better way to explain it. "Well... It's like ripping apart a summoning scroll and then putting the pieces back together in a separate--" he stopped himself and sighed. He looked back up to her and nodded. "Where should I put the books and scrolls, Kiyomi-san?"

''On the desk is alright.'' She said with a little smile. Kiyomi had heard what he had said before and that made her think. She did based it on what knowledge he had told her before. ''If it is about seperating yourself in pieces and putting them together, I still wouldn't call it like that. It is like, wait..'' She seemed to search for something. Muttering something, she managed to find a pencil and some paper. ''Here.'' Leaning forward, she would quickly draw two circles. In the left one, she would put a few signs towards the other circle. ''This represent movement. From you, this cirkle, to the new one. Your new location.'' She explained. Pointing at the few signs, she looked at Tatsuya, wanting to be sure he was paying attention. ''Every sign of movement can be however traced. By smell, eyes, hearing, sensing or any form that could make it possible to trace. You explained your technique splits you up and reform you. This means that your chakra is likely being moulded and formed into these crows, what can mean it is for those who can see or sense it, that it can be traced over the movement.'' Pausing to let the words sink in, Kiyomi would make two new circles as she would give them the same meaning.

Tatsuya quickly interrupted. "I understand the concept," he said. "I disappear when the crows, the pieces of the summoning scroll, appear. When they come together once more, they complete the summoning formula. That's why if you shoot down one of the crows, I won't reappear with one less limb. The crows will meet in the place closest to each other in order to complete the seal. Without all of the required pieces, it will create its own to finish it but it will be imperfect and I'll simply appear in the centre of where they all are. That's why I don't fly them too far from one another. It hurts when the formula isn't properly made and I fall..."

She listened to him and at the end looked back at the paper. Then she placed the end of the pencil on the signs she had made before. ''So you divide yourself among crows, made by a technique that uses chakra. Then form back into yourself at another place. Didn't I explain that was a hidden movement before?'' Kiyomi looked back at Tatsuya. ''In order to use the technique, you divide yourself, as pieces of a puzzle, into crows. They will have likely the same chakra signature as you, as they are formed by the technique or carry your chakra. Every animal seems to have a chakra signature. If that is true, it can be traced.'' Kiyomi explained. Pointing at her new two circles she continued. ''Space and Time create a tunnel, that makes you ''jump'' towards the new location. In many cases it can only be sensed after the jump. That is why I, mind you, call your technique not the same. Maybe it is, but in my opinion and knowledge, I think as long as it can be tracked over the jump, it isn't the same.'' Putting the pencil down, she thought about how she could further explain it and how it had to do with the summoning technique. It had been two years since she had tried to put herself to learn something as complex as this.

"That's not..." He waved the thought away and sighed. "Think of three points. A is where I initially am. B is an irrelevant place and C is the destination. To travel from A to C, there needs to be a scroll or a summoning formula to bring me there. The formula is the scattering crows. When the crows scatter, I'm summoned to B and when they gather once more at C and complete the summoning formula, just like I've been summoned there, I arrive at the destination C."

Scratching the side of her head, Kiyomi thought about his words. ''That sounds like a jump, but it isn't quite like it. It does sound like how the basic of summoning works, but it still something different than a jump through space and time. That is why I can't call it a space time ninjutsu. But, then again, I am more of a ninjutsu expert. I have given up on the space time ninjutsu for quite some time now. Only variant I use is the summoning technique.'' Kiyomi explained. She pointed to the books and scrolls. ''And that is where your first will be. If you want to learn more, you need to know about the basic forms. It is a field of ninjutsu that isn't known that well and I doubt if Kazuo can bring any books with any worth about it. Most are likely in the possession of the Hokage, if there are any already.'' That was an interesting thought. She could try to reach it with her rank and status as Hokage Apprentice. But it would be risky and unneeded, she wasn't after a space time ninjutsu.

He nodded and set the books and scrolls down on the desk. He looked at the books and then back at her. "So, should I...?" He held his hand out towards the books but didn't take any, continuing to stare at Kiyomi as if questioning her. He wondered why she had brought him into her own office to do the studying. ''You wanted to study under as a pupil of mine. That means I need to see if you will be one that won't tick me off or bother me. For now, you can sit on that side and use the desk. I need to... plan something.'' Kiyomi explained as she turned on her chair to glance sideways out of the window.

Tatsuya thought for a moment, then smiled. I can do that, he thought to himself as he grabbed one of the books and pulled out a small scroll and a pen. Running his finger through the pages, he found the chapter he needed and started reading, taking notes in the scroll once every while. Never lifting his head, he simply looked from the book to the scroll and from the scroll to the book as he wrote and read.

Waiting at the entrance of Azumi, Kiyomi had her Hokage Apprentice garb donned on. Her hands. dressed in fingerless gloves, were placed on her hips as she was waiting. It was around 9 AM and today would be a very busy day. And quite important. Thinking about it, she didn't had such a day for some time and hoped today would just go like the previous times. Back then it always had went okay, but today would be a bit different. At least, the start would be the same. The session after the second break would however be very different. Now it was just waiting for the two members to show up.

Approaching Kiyomi, Hayate stretched out his arms before placing his hands in the pockets of his jacket. Today was going to be a long one. Kiyomi had mentioned another training session, and those were never easy. Not that he would have them any other way, but still... Letting out a smile, Hayate was happy. Despite the pomise of a day filled with hard work, it was still a day he would get to spend with kiyomi, and a day where he could grow stronger. "Good morning Kiyomi. How are you?"

He had tried to be earlier, but couldn't put himself to it. Wanting to be sure that his gear was in perfect shape and that he had everything, Leo had ventured out towards Azumi. Being late wouldn't be something that Kiyomi-sensei would accept. Nor would he accept it of himself. With a good pace, he managed to reach the perimeter of Azumi, being just a bit later than Hayate. A playful grin crept on the lips of the boy as he waved towards his team members. ''Morning everybody.'' Making a fist, he stretched it out towards Hayate while he send a smile towards Kiyomi.

''Morning. I am doing fine. Hope you two are ready for some training.'' Kiyomi answered as she was glad that they both were on time. Gesturing them to follow her, she started to brief them in. ''Today will be a kind of regular training. First stamina, then a break where we will have some light discussion. After that we will train tactics. Again a break and after that, some special taijutsu and reflex training.'' Kiyomi told them, while heading to the nearby training field.

Seeing Leo approach, Hayate smiled and reached out with one hand to return the fist bump. "It is good to see you again Leo-san." Turning his attention back towards Kiyomi, Hayate nodded. "I am ready, Kiyomi-sama. Eager to begin." On which Leo nodded, he was all pumped up to start as well. When they entered the field, Kiyomi turned around as she looked at both her students. ''I want ten laps around the field and then twenty push ups. After that, another ten laps around the field with then two laps of sprinting.'' Kiyomi instructed. Though she had a stern voice, it wasn't really a very hard thing for both of them. She was sure about that. But she had her reasons to keep both of them not too spent.

Without further hesitation, Hayate set off in a jog around the field. It seemed like a light enough start, and that fact alone had Hayate curious as to what laid ahead. Making sure to keep the weights around his ankles and wrists quite heavy, he kept up a steady pace around the field. When it came time to do the pushups, Hayate gathered a bit of metal on his back, increasing the weight with each pushup. Soon he felt sweat falling from his brow as the effort became harder and harder. Finishing up, Hayate approached Kiyomi, breathing heavily. "What's next Kiyomi-sama?"

''Done, Kiyomi-sama.'' Leo felt some sweat dripping, but he would ignore it. He had done what was required and wanted to be sure he could keep up with Hayate. But more importantly, not to disappoint his sensei. Though he felt that he should be more careful with his stamina reserves, he would want to push himself to next level if it would help to make him a better shinobi. Trying to control his breathing a bit better, he would listen to what Kiyomi would say to them both.

With both her students done, Kiyomi had been patiently waiting for them. Of course with paying attention if they didn't cheat or did any of the excersises wrong. But like expected, they both had done it without any kind of mistake or fault. ''Good. Now catch your breath a bit. But with having a warming up done, it is now time for a small and healthy discussion. The topic will be on what is more important for a shinobi. The mission or comrades.'' Kiyomi said. This earned already a frown from Leo and Kiyomi already anticipated on how Hayate would think on the matter, but she would continue anyways. ''I want to hear a constructive opinion on what you would find more important and why. I will throw some questions in your direction, on which you then need to answer. If you can't? Twenty push ups.'' Folding her arms out front of her chest, she would wait for them to react.

Taking his time to consider the question carefully, Hayate realized that there was no easy answer. Deciding to go with his gut, Hayate took a breath and then responded. "I feel like the answer that is expected of us is to say that the mission comes first. I... I cannot fully agree with that however. To me, someone who would give up on their comrade is not worthy of the title of shinobi." He looked away for a moment, considering his words carefully. "I am not enough of a fool to think that the life of a single shinobi is more important than the lives of everyone else in the village. But if there is a chance to keep your comrades alive, to keep them safe... I believe it is your duty to do so. So... So I guess that's my answer. Sorry if it's wrong..."

After Hayate was done, Leo was silent for a brief more moments. He had been thinking about his answer while Hayate had given his. But he wanted to be sure about his answer. Giving the wrong one would likely lead to more questions and then having him to do the push ups. Not that the push ups would scare him, but the prospect that he couldn't answer his sensei. That wouldn't be forgiven! ''I think that the answer is...'' He frowned. ''I would first say the mission. It is important that the mission is a success in order to protect the Leaf. If we can't protect the Leaf, we can't protect our people, our comrades. Even while you need to look out for a comrade, one shouldn't forget why they are on a mission. To protect the others. Though..'' Leo lowered his head. ''I wouldn't like the idea of leaving a comrade alone to die on a mission. That would be a disgrace too.''

Kiyomi could sigh, for it seemed that they hadn't really changed. She had two students that kept their ideals close to their heart, making it clear that they wouldn't forsake their comrades for the sake of a mission. She had already experienced it, but it wasn't because she was planning on bringing them on other thoughts to bring it up. It was for becoming a chuunin. With being higher ranked, even as a chuunin, it would mean more duties towards the Leaf and Hokage. ''Alright. Hayate.'' Kiyomi shot him a glance. ''Can you then tell me what you would do in a situation where you really have to make a choice. Either a comrade, which would compromise the safety of the village or the mission being a succes. Yet losing the comrade. Leo.'' Kiyomi turned her gaze now on the younger boy. ''What would you do, if your comrade would forsake you? Would you still look out for him or her? Assuming you do make it out alive.''

"I would choose the mission." Hayate said quietly, not hesitating this time. "We are taught that our own lives are not worth more than this village, and everyone in it, and if the time came I would gladly give my life to keep this place safe. I would trust that my comrades would do the same... So... if it came down to it, if there were no other way, then I would make sure that the mission came first." Gritting his teeth, Hayate felt ashamed. He knew the words were true, but it didn't mean he had to like them.

Leo wanted to answer, but he recognized something in Hayate's voice. Briefly glancing at his team member and friend, Leo wondered if Hayate was doing alright. But it was time that he would answer Kiyomi's question. One he found very hard to answer. Neither Hayate nor Kiyomi had shown any kind of behavior that they would leave him behind. So how could he answer that question? ''I think that my pride and feelings would get in the way, sensei. If somebody I consider a comrade would forsake me in a mission, I wouldn't know how to react on it. If the purpose is to save the whole village, I would be grateful. And bitter.'' Lowering his head, Leo was sure that a lecture would follow. One he rightfully deserved.

Listening to what her students told her in return, Kiyomi only nodded. Waiting, she smiled a bit. ''Good enough. Seems you both understand that you need to keep on thinking. Not only about your actions, but of others too. Remember,'' Lifting a finger to place emphasis on her words, Kiyomi continued. ''We Konohagakure shinobi or rather now, shinobi of the Fire Union, have one purpose with our proffession. We are trained and led to protect the lands of the Fire Union. Not to gain some personal ambition that could bring that purpose in danger. Seeing you both answered the question well enough, I will leave it to this.'' Kiyomi said. The smile vanished as she would question them something else now. ''Now, you both are allowed to give me a situation and scenario on which I have to answer. Then you may question my answer.''

Thinking for a long moment, Hayate considered the chance seriously. There was something that he wanted to ask, something that a part of him already felt he knew the answer to... But he couldn't bring himself to voice the question. Sighing, Hayate thought for another moment. There had been something else weighing heavily on his mind... Something that he hadn't talked about with anyone, and this could be a good way of getting some indirect advice. Unable to make direct eye contact at first, Hayate began quietly, "So we can ask anything right? Any hypothetical scenario? What if... what if you found out that your clan was planning on betraying the village? Your family, everyone that you consider family? How would you act in that situation?" He kept his eyes looking down, hoping that they didn't ask him anything in return.

It became silent. Placing her left hand at her chin, Kiyomi looked up to the sky. There was no visual sign of what she was thinking about the scenario that Hayate gave her. ''I would kill them. Every single one of them. Then live forever with that crime.'' Her voice was quite calm. Looking at her students, there was clear shock in Leo's eyes. She couldn't see Hayate's reaction as he had his eyes looking down, but she continued. ''If my clan by any chance would form a threat against Konohagakure, I would pick Konoha's side. It has been my true home and forsaken it for a clan? I think that I couldn't do that. Even while I am very loyal to my clan, I can't.... Betrayel should be paid off with blood. And if clan tries to betray Konohagakure like that? Then they should pay a heavy price for it.''

The answer that seemed to be rather cold and emotionless scared Leo. He looked at his hands, not able to ask the question he had before. It was just clear that Kiyomi was utterly loyal to the Leaf. But the boy didn't understand it. Though he hadn't been raised by a clan, he thought about it as if he would kill his older sister. All to protect the Leaf. But he wasn't sure if he had the same loyalty to the Leaf as Kiyomi had. Wasn't the Leaf not the one to blame that he didn't had anybody else but Team 2 anymore? Swallowing the thoughts and bit of fear away, Leo decided it was his turn. ''Kiyomi-sensei... What would you do... if you find out that you're a danger to the Leaf?''

The question that Leo asked made Kiyomi blink several times. She thought about the question as a little smile crept on her lips. ''Then that means you two would have to stop me. I can't think of anything more fitting than you two to bring me to a halt if I would become an enemy of the Leaf.'' Kiyomi answered with a more polite and friendly tone. ''I think that with some more training and experience, you two together would be enough to halt me. Or.. kill me.'' The last two words were spoken with a more cold tone. And after a brief glance, Kiyomi stared at Hayate. Though she revealed no emotion or thoughts, she kept her gaze locked on him. There was something about...

Looking up as Kiyomi mentioned them killing her, Hayate almost spoke up in protest, but held his tongue, realizing how it would look. He met Kiyomi's eyes, seeing the question there. His eyes were dark, but he tried to keep the rest of his emotions hidden. If anyone could tell that something was eating away at him it would be Kiyomi. "And what if you knew that there were some within the clan who didn't know, who remained innocent? Would you kill them too?"

Staring into the dark eyes, hers became dark green. There was a cold breeze, before Kiyomi answered. ''That would be a bit...of a shame. They would be sacrificed for the peace and killed due their kinsmen trying to harm the village. But their lives still don't count up to the majority of the village.'' Kiyomi coldly answered. Leo opened his mouth, looking a bit mad as he heard Kiyomi answer. But he soon shut his lips as Kiyomi glanced in his direction. A cold shiver went down his spine as he felt some killing intent after the glance. ''Though if there are people who can be saved from the purge, I would try it. Though only if I could gather as much as possible information about it. Then probably... hide it somewhere deep.'' She said. Kiyomi kept staring at Hayate, as another cold breeze was blown over the field they were on. After that, she turned her attention to Leo.

The young Hasewaga couldn't believe the answer. So the innocent didn't make it up with those who were the majority of the Leaf? It made some sense, but why would the innocent need to suffer? They hadn't do anything to deserve such a cruel fate. It greatly confused Leo as he was hoping Kiyomi had a good reason for such an answer. Maybe she had already some experience with it. Staring at the scar of her right eye, Leo pointed at it. ''Kiyomi-sensei, why do you have a scar there? I always thought you were very powerful. Did somebody more powerful caused that?''

The question was an innocent one. She was aware of that. Only it was a bit of something she didn't want to talk too much about. At times like these she could feel the skin around the damaged tissue that formed the scar on her skin, pricke. As if it was a message that she shouldn't forget that a mistake had nearly cost her an eye. Or even her life. ''I was forced to take a decision. Either I would head out to meet this powerful foe by myself and try my best to protect everybody. Even if it would make me a kin-slayer. Or I would suffer to see that somebody who claimed to be a sibling of mine to hurt others I cared for.'' Kiyomi answered. Though he was aware of his limit of questions, Leo couldn't resist it. ''D-Did you killed...'' Kiyomi nodded slowly as she smiled. But it was a sad smile. ''Yes. I fear it is true. I killed one person that came from the same family.'' She paused. ''From the same ''clan''

Looking away again, Hayate simply nodded slowly. He had his answer. "So what's next Kiyomi-sama?" He asked, hoping to change the topic. ''You two take a small rest.'' Kiyomi answer, but she looked away. Thinking about something. ''Afterwards, we will discuss several battle tactics. The chuunin exams may come sooner than expected and I want to be sure both of you are in top shape. Both in mind as in physical meaning.'' Kiyomi explained. Turning her back on them, she took a few steps away. This was a chance, at least in Leo's eyes, as he turned his head to look at Hayate. ''The Chuunin Exams. Heh, I look forward to them. Don't you?'' Leo asked, sounding like he had already forgotten about the previous subjects. But he had his own reason for the change in tone. He trusted Kiyomi on her judgement, even if he found her answers cold and cruel.

Hayate watched her walk away, realizing that he was probably going to have to answer a few questions of his own later. Shaking the thought from his mind, he realized that Leo was talking to him. Turning towards the other boy, Hayate threw on a fake smile. "I am sure they will be interesting Leo-san. I don't know exactly how I feel about them though, to be honest. I am certain that Kiyomi-sama will be able to make us as ready as we possibly can be, but I still... I don't know..." Hayate looked away for a moment, placing his hands in his pockets, deep in thought. "I just find it strange you know? The exams I mean. To think it all comes down to a fight... About to continue, Hayate realized that he was ranting when all Leo probably wanted to do was hear positive things. Throwing on smile that was meant to be reassuring, but felt hollow on the inside, Hayate took one of his hands out of his pockets and playfully punched Leo on the shoulder. "I hope I don't wind up fighting you though Leo-san, I wouldn't want to lose too quickly now."

Leo was looking with a frown up in the sky. He was thinking about what Hayate had said, but grinned when Hayate punched him on the shoulder. ''Neither would I. Imagine that. I think it would be one hell of a fight. Though then sensei has to cheer for us both.'' Briefly Leo glanced at Kiyomi who had taken some distance and seemed to think about something. ''I heard though that the exams can be quite harsh. People say that there is a chance of death. I don't like the sound of that.'' Leo said hushed. He sounded worried, but not scared.

"Being a shinobi there is always going to be that kind of risk. It sadly goes with the duty. But I can't imagine that the judges would let it go that far. Accidents can happen of course, but as long as we are careful, I'm sure it won't be an issue." Looking over at Leo, Hayate gave him a reassuring smile. "Besides, we've been trained by the best! There's no way either of us will let that happen." Looking past Leo, up to Kiyomi, Hayate's eyes narrowed slightly. He hated keeping things from her, and he was certain that his questions had made her suspicious.

''That is true. After all, we are one solid team. Even if we need to fight solo, I think we have a good shot.'' However Leo clenced his fists. He had another reason to show he was a proud Hasewaga. Even though she wasn't around anymore, he had one goal now with those exams. ''Though I hope I have a shot. I am not that old or experienced as you or Kiyomi-sama. But afterwards, we should celebrate it. It is something good if we all live, isn't it?'' Leo asked with a grin. Kiyomi was looking the other way, staring in the distance while having her arms crossed. The expression on her face made it clear she was thinking about something.

Smiling, Hayate nodded his head. "It is indeed Leo-san. It is indeed." Looking away for a moment, Hayate sighed inwardly. It was better to deal with this sooner rather than later. "Leo-san, would you mind if I spoke to Kiyomi-sama for a moment? I have something to ask her, and I'm a little embarrassed about it." Leo was a bit wondering what it could be, as his brow furrowed, but he soon shrugged and would take out the tanto he was carrying. Taking out a napkin, he would hum softly as he would clean the blade, trying to keep his mind busy with thinking about his goal. Though he was wondering what Hayate had to talk about with their sensei, he would wait. Probably nothing big.

Nodding his thanks, Hayate rose to his feet and slowly made his way over to where Kiyomi stood. Standing for a moment he said nothing. Turning his head slightly towards her, Hayate wondered what to say. Finally he steeled himself and began. "Kiyomi... I... Sorry for my question earlier, it was out of line. I did not mean to cause any concern." He hated himself for still keeping the truth from her, but it was better this way. His stomach knotted, Hayate waited for her response.

Still staring away, Kiyomi replied to him with a hushed tone. ''I will question you later. Now it isn't the time to talk about it. Just focus and keep yourself at ease.'' Turning her head, shooting a serious glance in his direction. Her eyes were however not showing the bright green color. ''Later we will discuss this. Everything of it.'' She told him on a hushed tone. ''For now, we are going to take the next part of the training. Leo come over here.'' This caused Leo to look up as Kiyomi spoke with a clear voice. Sheathing his tanto and pushing himself of the ground, Kiyomi pointed at the few trees. ''We are going to do some tactic mind training. See those trees? I want each of you to sum up on how you can use those trees to create a proper ambush, without using ninjutsu.'' Kiyomi crossed her arms again as she would shot a glance in Hayate's direction.

Not foolish enough to try and continue pretending that everything was alright, Hayate simply nodded. She was right after all, this was something that needed privacy. "I am sorry." Turning, Hayate tried to hide the emotion from his face. He didn't want Leo to know that something was the matter, as it would only complicate things. Turning his attention to the task at hand, Hayate pondered Kiyomi's question. Ambush tactics were something that he was quite familiar with, he had been forced to use them quite often during his time fighting with the rebellion against Shoji's army. Without looking back, Hayate asked one simple question. "How many people do we have with us?"

''And how much does the opposite site have?'' Leo added. He took the same stance as Kiyomi, crossing his arms as he frowned while thinking about it. Kiyomi sighed, but she didn't mind it. ''Lets assume that you have a decent team. Lets say chuunin skilled nin. The enemy is composed of three teams that will pass the area.'' Kiyomi pointed out while she explained it in more details. ''The weather is clouded, probably that will rain soon. Wind is going westwards.'' With that information Kiyomi would wait. Leo however spoke up.

''I would hide a member in each tree, trying to minimalize the chance they discover all of the team. Then with the enemy within reach, thus underneath us, we will throw a mix of smokebombs and kunai with tags. During the confussion we could try to sneak in and take out any of the enemy.'' Leo explained, hoping that he had made a good plan. They weren't allowed to use ninjutsu, so tools were the obvious replacements for it.

Listening slowly to Leo's plan, Hayate thought carefully. The plan itself wasn't horrible, but it had a few flaws. "If you use smoke bombs Leo-san, you put yourself at risk of counterattack. It would be best to leave the smoke out of it if you can, especially without the use of ninjutsu. You can't rely on sensory abilities to locate your enemies that way, and it is likely that you could end up hurting an ally just as much as the enemy." Thinking for another long moment, Hayate hoped that he hadn't come across as harsh in his review of Leo's plan.

"If we were aware of the enemies intended direction, and knew that they were coming through this area, then I would first rig it with flash tags and some explosive tags. I would avoid placing any of the team in trees where the wind would carry their scent towards the enemy." Pausing, Hayate thought to himself for another moment. "I would split the team in even groups in order to assault the three enemy teams. The next part would happen differently depending on whether or not the teams were travelling in a straight line, or if they were staggered out. If the teams were travelling in a straight line, then I would wait for all three teams to have entered the forest before making our move. The team I had at the back would have clones prepared, and would drop down on the last enemy team silently, taking them out before they had a chance to make a sound. At the same time, the team ahead of them would set off the explosive tags, before eliminating the middle group of enemies with projectiles. Whent he tags go off, the enemy team that is at the front would become distracted by the noise, causing them to look towards the sound, which is when we set off the flash tags, blinding them and then eliminating them before they can recover. If the groups are staggered then the plan would simply adjust to adapt for the enemies new position, but with the same results." Thinking about his own plan for a moment, he realized that he could probably have come up with a better one, but it would do the trick for now. Looking towards Kiyomi, he awaited her review.

Leo cursed something softly. He looked up to Hayate with a mix of envy and pride. Kiyomi would like probably his answer. Leo did, it was almost flawless! No, it was flawless. ''You made one mistake.'' Kiyomi calmly said as she looked sideways at Hayate. ''I think you need to think again, as Leo was closer with his tactic.'' Kiyomi said without explaining anything. But somebody else did. ''Mimi knows the mistake! Mimi heard that Silly Face said clones and clones are a form of ninjutsu. Mimi heard that wasn't allowed.~'' Looking over her shoulder, Kiyomi saw Mimi. She had her shoulderbag over her right shoulder, her fists at her hips as she beamed. Before Kiyomi could turn around, Mimi made a quick salute, raising her right hand to her head. ''Mimi reporting for duty!''

''Who is that?'' Leo asked, surprised by seeing the young child. This seemed to annoy Mimi, who lowered her arm and huffed her cheeks. ''Mimi is the next great kunoichi of Boohona!'' She sounded very serious. probably missing her own mistake. Kiyomi briefly laughed as she placed a hand on top of Mimi's head. ''I requested Mimi to join our training today, because she could both learn as help you to train better.'' She explained. ''And maybe you two can learn something from her.'' This made Mimi beam again as she planted her fists firmly at her hips.

Caught somewhere between cursing himself and laughing out loud, Hayate simply smiled. It was always good to spend time with Mimi, and the girl did indeed posess quite a fair amount of skill for someone of her age. "You are right about the clones of course, but removing them would not change the plan, I would simply shift another member to the rear guard team and make up for the difference that way." He looked at Mimi and winked, before turning back to Kiyomi. "I apologize for my error sensei. What are we training next?"

''And why is she able to train us better?'' Was Leo's question. He didn't look at Mimi with distrust, as he believed that his sensei knew what she was doing, but he found it strange that such a young person, even younger than him, could help them. Kiyomi nodded towards Mimi. ''We are going to do a game of hide and seek. I will be simply watching over you three while you're playing this.'' Kiyomi answered. ''I think she will able to train you two better is because that it is good to see if you both have the ability to hide yourself from the view of somebody who isn't of my class or experience. Not that Mimi here isn't capable of seeing through some tricks, but it will both help her and the two of you.'' Then a smile cracked on Kiyomi's lips. ''And after the harsh trainings and missions, I thought it would be a nice change.''

Grinning wider, Hayate was surprised at the change. It would indeed be a fun break from the constant rigorous training. Looking back towards Kiyomi, he cocked his head to the side. "Is ninjutsu allowed?" This made Mimi puff and huff. ''Mimi says noooooo.'' With a deep frown, the little girl pointed to herself. ''Mimi can't use ninjutsu yet, so not fair!'' This made Leo chuckle as Kiyomi briefly thought about it. ''Lets make it a bit harder and say no to ninjutsu indeed.'' Kiyomi answered, which made Mimi beam, as she was sure that her chance was a bit bigger now. Even if it was just a little bit.

Nodding his head, Hayate had expected as much. After all, it would not be very fair if he was allowed to simply slip below the earth to hide. He couldn't help but chuckle at Mimi's antics, the girl always had a way of making him smile. "So when do we start?" Kiyomi took a few steps back. ''When Mimi is done with counting to ten. Also, consider the market district the place to hide.'' That having said, Leo already turned around to run towards the district. It was still a distance that they had to cover, making him wonder about something. ''Hayate, maybe we should split up and try to find some disguises?''

Moving with speed, Hayate kept pace beside Leo. The suggestion made him smile as he got a brief picture of them in ridiculous disguises. "I think Mimi-chan would most likely recognize me quite easily regardless of any disguise, but she is not as familiar with you, so that could definitely work. I think I will simply have to find a place to hide." Continuing to run towards the market district, he had a brief thought. "Splitting up would be a good idea though Leo-san. We can maximize our efficiency that way." Glancing to the side, Hayate waited for the other boy's response.

Leo nodded. ''I thought she would probably be able. Lets then use our earphone communicators? Sensei didn't say that we weren't allowed to use them.'' Finishing his sentence the boy gained a grin. He was hoping that they could have some success, because he was a bit wary of the girl. Knowing how their sensei was, it wouldn't be as easy as it would look like. Leo started to see if he could see any place where he could change his look, but he didn't want to resolve to stealing.

"Good idea Leo. That will give us greater range." Hayte agreed with the boy. Seeing buildings in the near distance, he adjusted his course slightly. "Let us split here Leo-san. If you need any assistance let me know over the communicator. Let us switch to channel four, just in case they decide to listen in on us." With that said, Hayate switched his communicator to channel four and then split off from Leo. He moved faster than he had been travelling, wanting to reach the market district as quickly as possible.

Switching from channel, Leo nodded as he turned the other way. Like Hayate, Leo decided to pick up the pace. It had been more than ten seconds, so it meant that the girl was likely trying to tail them now towards the district. Still looking around, he noticed that he was close to the district, but hadn't found a way to disguise himself yet. Neither did he had his wallet or any money with him to buy something quickly. Deciding to just first see if he could hide himself among the crowd, Leo decided to head to a formation of stands. There was a considerable amount of people today at the district and maybe it was safer to move through a crowd than just running about on the streets.

Entering the district, Hayate looked around quickly. There was a large enough variety of places to hide, but he would have to decide fast. Moving into a crowd, Hayate merged with the flow, keeping himself low. Moving past a variety of stalls, he eyed the merchant's fares, looking to see if there would be anything that would help. ''Seems you two are in place?'' Kiyomi asked through the communicator. Sitting on top of a roof, Kiyomi had taken a position to keep an eye on the market and surrounding. Though she wouldn't be able to perfectly see through the crowd, even with her sharp eyes, she could see a glimps now and then of Leo. Trying to find Hayate, she thought that she had seen him briefly. And just when she was about to wonder where Mimi was, she noticed the girl running around a corner. The game was going to start.

So sensei is listening to us? Not very surprising, but hopefully that girl doesn't have a communicator. Leo thought to himself. Standing still for a moment, he was trying to see where his sensei was at. Though knowing that she wasn't participating in the hide and seek, he wanted to know just in case. Turning to his right, he would walk with a calmer pace. Realizing that hiding in the crowd would make it harder to spot him, it would mean the same thing for that he would have to be careful as he couldn't spot Mimi.

Spotting a particularly interesting vendor, Hayate made his way through the crowd towards the stall. This particulat merchant was selling various blankets and fabrics. The merchandise was spread out around the stall, forming several piles. Separating himself from the crowd, Hayate swiftly stepped into the stall, looking like he was simply inspecting the merchant's stock. When he was certain that there were no eyes on him, Hayate tucked himself into one of the piles, covering himself in the various fabrics. From where he hid, no parts of his body were visible. And now he would wait...

Mimi started to run around at first. Holding her right hand at her shoulderbag, she quinted her eyes. So far she had managed to follow them for some bit, but when they had splitted up, Mimi had been confused for several moments. Following Leo first, she decided to just head towards the market. Knowing that it would be hard to find them both hiding in the crowd, Mimi had a plan of her own. Her lower lip started to tremble as she raised her hands to her eyes. Soon enough, somebody tapped her shoulder. ''Everything alright?'' It was an elderly woman, who looked worried. Peeerrrfffeeeect! Mimi thought as she shook her head. Rubbing her eyes, she tried to form up some tears. ''Mimi-Mimi.... lost her brother.'' She muttered, sobbing. This seemed to make the woman waver, likely doubting if she had enough time to help the child. ''Come, I will help you then. Can you describe him for me?'' She asked quite nicely, offering her hand.

Still watching, Kiyomi had noticed that Mimi was behaving oddly. Only then to later see what she had likely in mind. Turning her attention back to the several crowds and busy streets, she noticed that Hayate was gone. Where she looked, she couldn't find a trace of him. Neither Leo. This would turn out to become quite interesting.

Leo started to move behind some stalls. He wasn't sure where Hayate was or Mimi. Slowly, he peeked around the corner of the stall. ''Hayate, are you hiding already?'' He whispered, still trying to figure out where Mimi was.

Not wishing to give himself away, Hayate simply tapped the microphone once, the signal for yes. He hoped that Leo would understand his signal. In situations where a shinobi could not speak, they could send a short signal by tapping the mic, one tap signalling yes, and two taps signalling no. Remaining where he was, Hayate wondered how everything was going outside. He couldn't stay here forever, but it was a good enough place to start.

Her plan was working. The old lady was trying to help her out and Mimi started to explain that she had two ''brothers'', who were trying to play a game of their own and forgetting about her. Though this earned a sigh from the woman, Mimi tried to keep up her act to look helpless. Holding a hand of the woman, Mimi had just finished describing both. It was only a bit bothersome that she had to describe Leo, seeing she didn't know him that quite well as Hayate. ''The place is too crowded.'' The woman mumbled, looking around. This made Mimi fear that the woman would give up on it. Deciding to put some extra effort on looking extra sad. ''Mimi t-thinks it is maybe a good idea to ask help from m-more people?'' The suggestion seemed to work. The woman smiled as she patted Mimi's head. ''That sounds like a great idea. Just wait here for one moment and don't go anywhere.'' With the woman walking towards a small group of people, Mimi couldn't help it. A smirk crept briefly on her lips. Hehehehehehe.~

Hearing the tap, Leo thought about it and while Hayate couldn't see it, Leo still nodded. He tried to move to another stall, wanting to keep himself on the move. After he managed to sneak to his new location, he looked around. It was a bit frustrating that they weren't allowed to use ninjutsu. Though what if they would hide themselves good enough from Kiyomi's eyes to then use the technique? Only to then realize that it would break the condition of the training. Such a thing could make him look weak. He had to think of something else.

Staying in his position, Hayate concentrated on listening to the sounds around him. He blocked out everything else, focusing on the noise alone. He wanted to have as much heads up as possible if Mimi discovered where he was. It was difficult to filter out the noise of the crowds, but Hayate focused all his attention on it. Though it would take some time, he had nothing but time...

With the growing number of people, Mimi simply kept waiting. Of course she knew that waiting around wouldn't help her chances of finding the two. Even with some help now, she had to corner Hayate and Leo, but how? Trying to think of a way, Mimi started to eye the surroundings. Going to higher ground? No, that wouldn't work. Probably it would raise the suspicioun of those who where helping her. Besides, she had put up the act of being helpless. Trying to climb or reach to high ground in all of a sudden would be odd. Walking around, she started to request more people to help her.

What? Leo thought as he noticed surprised that a few people were looking like they were searching for something. Or somebody! He tried to hide himself better behind the current stall he was at. Not sure if it was safe to assume that he was being searched, Leo tried to keep himself in the shadows. Meanwhile, Kiyomi looked with a smile at how it was going so far. The aid that Mimi had managed to arrange was indeed a good plan, but Kiyomi was wondering how effective it would be.

Hearing a small group of people growing close, Hayate remained perfectlly still. If he moved now it was all over. He could hear the people asking around, it seemed like they were looking for tw people. Heh. Clever girl. Hayate thought to himself. So it seemed that Mimi had enlisted some help. He briefly wondered if he had been seen going into the stall, but he brushed the thought aside. Hayate knew he had been careful. His clan was prided on their stealth abilities after all, and Hayate knew how to move about unseen. Listening carefully he waited to hear the group move away, only then would he relax.

Still no trace of them both! Mimi started to think to really go higher ground, but she had deduced earlier that it wasn't an option. Neither had she learned how to use the Wall Climbing Technique. Briefly glancing at the nearby rooftops, she didn't see somebody on them. But it could be a possible chance that either Hayate and Leo were there. Or both. Deciding to speed up the people mass to help her, Mimi decided to approach others in order to help her out. Hoping that by increasing the numbers of those who would help with the search, Mimi tried to blend in with a group. Hopefully she could also sneak upon either Leo or Hayate.

Cursing softly, Leo had almost been discovered. Only with a quick dodge into the shadows behind a stall had he avoided being detected. It became evident that soon he wouldn't be able to go anywhere with the people looking for him and Hayate. Tempted by the new development, Leo wanted to request back up from Hayate. But if he was already in such trouble, Hayate wouldn't likely have it easy too. Scratching the top of his head, Leo started to become frustrated. Deciding to take a risk, Leo went towards a group, keeping his head lowered as he managed to blend in.

Still from her position, Kiyomi watched over the whole situation. It pleased her to see the three doing both a good job of staying hidden and trying to search for the hidden ones. Leaning a bit forward from her sitting position, Kiyomi could notice Leo. Seemed that he had to take a risky decision, but where was Hayate? She thought about it. But she wasn't assuming that Hayate would have used any kind of jutsu. Then she thought back of what he had asked her earlier. It caused Kiyomi to look with her eyes slowly becoming darker.

Slowly, the sounds began moving away from his hiding place. It appeared that he was safe for the moment. Letting out a silent sigh, Hayate wondered how Leo was faring. The other boy had a knack for finding creative solutions, but stealth had always been something that seemed to cause Leo to struggle a little. Thinking for a moment, Hayate wondered if he should try to help his teammate, but he also realized that it wouldn't help the other boy learn much if he did.

Once he was certain that there was nobody around him, Hayate slowly moved so that he could see out from behind a piece of colourful fabric. The crowd had moved back into the street and it appeared as if there was a large group searching together. A small smile tugged at the corner of Hayate's lips. Suddenly, he had an idea. Moving carefully, he extracted himself from the large pile of fabrics, making sure to take a few of the larger pieces with him. Wrapping himself in the colourful attire, Hayate wanted to hide his trademark black longcoat. He wrapped one of the pieces around his head too, in order to cover a bit of his face. Moving away from the stall, he looked around the marketplace, trying to locate his target... There! Almost imperceptibly, Hayate launched a kunai from beneath the folds of the colourful fabric. The kunai struck its target, a small wooden block that was keeping the wheels of a food cart from rolling. The force of the throw knocked the block aside and caused the cart to start rolling down the slight slope of the street. The cart picked up speed and, before the owner could grab it, it had hit the curb and toppled over; spilling the food across the street. Hayate stepped back into a crowd of onlookers that had turned to see what caused the commotion, and from there he watched. He hoped the distraction would be enough to allow Leo to slip away and, if he was lucky, the falling food cart would interrupt the searching crowd as well.

Whipping her head to the right, Mimi could see what happened. Her eyes widened as she knew it was either Hayate or Leo. Turning around, she wanted to tackle the person, but wasn't able. The crowd that first had been an asset for her to find them, was now a problem. The commotion made it difficult for Mimi to both keep an eye on the one who caused the ruckus as well getting there. Puffing and huffing, she tried to look for any signal of the person. He had to be close, he had to! Getting frustrated, Mimi clenched her hands into fists, finding it annoying that she had been so close. Looking over her shoulder, the crowd had stopped to search for Leo and Hayate. Biting on her lower lip, Mimi knew that she had to think of something quickly. Then she saw it. Running, she wouldn't fail this time.

Nice! Leo thought with a grin as he managed to walk away. Now that the attention was focused on the ruckus that had been caused by Hayate, Leo could walk away from it. He was sure that he could use this to his advantage to hide somewhere. Looking around, he tried to think of where he could hide himself. ''MIMI!'' Turning around, Leo was shocked. With her weight and speed, Mimi collided against Leo, causing him to fall on his back. Quickly restraining the boy by keeping a knee against his chest and having a hand at the throat, Mimi had a big grin on her lips. ''Mimi caught you!'' Leo blinked a few times with his eyes, trying to figure out how she had managed to do that.

Smiling, Kiyomi had seen the whole situation perfectly. Though the commotion had distrupted Mimi's plan of using the crowd against the two, it also made it less dense. With the attention focused on the accident, it would mean that it was hader to hide among the crowd. That gave Leo away. Eyeing where she had last seen Hayate, Kiyomi spoke through the communicator. ''Alright, Leo, come to my position. Now it is just Hayate and Mimi.'' With the instruction dispatched, Leo sighed. After Mimi released him, he would head towards Kiyomi's position. A bit disappointed, but he knew that he had done his best.

Hiding in amongst the crowd of people moving to help the food cart operator, Hayate made sure to stay where the crowd was thickest. He moved around to where the block of wood with the kunai sticking out of it was. Keeping his eyes out, Hayate looked through the crowd, he spotted Mimi tackling Leo. Lettnig out a frustrated sigh, Hayate had hoped that his plan would buy the other boy some time, but it appeared as if he had only given him away faster. Taking advantage of the moment while Mimi's attention was on Leo, Hayate moved swiftly, reaching out and collecting his kunai, he moved away from the crowd, slipping into an alleyway.

Ducking into a second alley, Hayate continued moving. Now that he knew he was out of sight, he discarded the colourful attire into a trash bin before moving further. Eyeing a nearby fire escape, Hayate leapt up to it and made his way onto the roof. Once he was on the roof, he crouched down low, making sure to stay away from the edge. Glancing around, he, he could see several nearby rooftops, all with only a small amount of objects to hide behind.

Thinking for a moment, Hayate decided to move to the next nearby rooftop, leaping the gap as quietly as he could. He was now far away from where he had caused the commotion with the food cart, and he hoped that it had bought him some time.

With Leo out of the picture, it was just her and Hayate. Mimi looked around, trying to pick up a hint or signal of Hayate. He shouldn't be that far. But how could she check it? Wait, that was it! Running to the commotion, Mimi squinted her eyes. Looking around, still no trace from Hayate. He was likely trying to make some distance, but she was sure that she could lure him out. Moving away from the commotion, Mimi was trying to look for something. Finding what she could use, a smirk crept on her lips.

''Sorry Sensei.'' Leo said, feeling bitter and defeated. A mere Academy Genin had managed to take him out. Kiyomi flashed a smile towards Leo. ''You did it great. Now time to enjoy the rest of the show.'' Sitting next to Kiyomi, Leo was searching for a trace of Hayate. Then he noticed his team member and friend on top of a rooftop. At least he wasn't caught yet. Kiyomi however had her eyes fixed on somebody else.

''Aaaaaaaaaaaaaah.'' The sound attracted the attention of several people as the crying became louder. Laying on her stomach, Mimi turned around on her back while her hands moved to her knee. Crying out, it was clear that she had tripped and fallen hard on her knee. Snobbing, she noticed that her knee was bleeding. But with most focus and attention on the commotion that Hayate had caused, not many were moving to help her up. Continue to cry, Mimi stayed at the place where she had tripped.

About to make his next move, Hayate paused, mid-step. That sound... His eyes darting around, Hayate noticed his sensei and his teammate on another of the roofs nearby. Looking at Kiyomi, he noticed her attention was on the street. That's where the noise is coming from, Hayate thought to himself. He knew without a shadow of a doubt that the sound was coming from Mimi, and he was torn up as to what to do. Staring back to Kiyomi for a long moment, he realized something. A memory popped up from long ago. Narrowing his eyes, Hayate moved to the edge of the roof, away from the sound. Looking down he saw another fire escape. Leaping down to it, Hayate quickly made his way to street level. Moving swiftly, he made his way across the street, towards the stalls on the other side.

Tears were rolling over the cheeks of Mimi, as she kept sobbing. Trying to get up only ended in failure. Leo got up as he looked worried, but Kiyomi stretched out a hand. ''Just have patience.'' Kiyomi ordered. Leo wanted to argue, but she shook her head. Staying put, Leo was wondering why nobody was helping her. Mimi kept up her act as she managed to convince some people that she was in pain. But every person that came too close, was met with an angry glare. Limping towards a bench, Mimi looked disappointed and bitter.

Stepping into one of the stores, Hayate pretended to be interested in the shopkeeper's wares, all the while keeping an eye out towards the street. He was far enough back that he couldn't be seen if someone were to simply pass by, but he had a decent view of the outside. Now to wait and see what Mimi would do next. A part of him wanted so badly to go and make sure the girl was okay, but he fought against that impulse. If Mimi was learning anything from Kiyomi, then there was too much of a risk for him to go and find out.

Sitting on the bench, Mimi pulled her right leg up. Inspecting the wound, it had stopped bleeding. Judging by the sobbing and tears that still rolled over Mimi's cheeks, she was still hurt. Mumbling something, the girl was trying to catch a glimps of Hayate. If her plan was working, he would be lured closer. He was a very kind person and that meant she could try to see if he would lower his guard if she would try to lure him like this.

Hayate had been so intent on making sure that Mimi hadn't spotted him, that he hadn't even realized he was in a clothing store for women. A flush came to his cheeks as he realized what the item of clothing that he had been 'inspecting' was. Throwing it back on the shelf, Hayate's face was entirely red from embarrassment now. Looking around he saw that the other people within the store were eyeing him strangely. "uhh... uh..." He started... Trying desparately to think of something, he quickly blurted, "Looking for my girlfriend..." Turning from one side to the other, he pretended to be looking for someone, only to grow a disappointed look on his face. "I guess she's not here," he muttered quietly, still too embarrassed to meet anyone's eyes. Moving towards the exit, Hayate tried to see if there was anyone watching nearby. The coast looked clear and he ducked out the door and around the corner. Stopping in the alley, he caught his breath, cursing himself for being such a fool.

''MIMIIIIII!'' The voice scalded through the alley as it came from above. Having followed Hayate, the girl had swiftly tried to climb up. With Hayate not spending too much attention on his surroundings. Now she hoped that her ambush would get him. Biting on her lower lip, she aimed to tackle him to the ground. Meanwhile, Kiyomi and Leo had moved to a nearby rooftop. Looking down on the scene, Kiyomi crouched, watching with a bland look on how the scene would unfold. Leo on the other hand had a more curious look, his hands clenched into fist as he wasn't sure if he was allowed to help Hayate or not.

Hearing the sound above him, Hayate's eyes briefly widened in surprise. Crap! he thought. Hayate had been to focused on the embarrassment from the store to have paid enough attention to what was around him and now Mimi had planned an ambush for him. Forced to react quickly, Hayate spun as fast as he could, whipping off his jacket in the process. Waiting until the last second, before Mimi would make contact with him, Hayate shifted his entire body to the side. Holding the jacket out where he stood, he would use it to cover Mimi's face and arms, briefly trapping her and blocking her view, hopefully buying him enough time to get away. Not looking back, Hayate took off out of the alleyway, sprinting towards the nearest crowd.

Muffled sounds came from the girl as she got caught at the last moment. Though it made her not slam against the ground, Mimi rolled over it as she tried to get rid of the jacket. Finally she managed to stick her head out of a sleeve as she looked with an angry and frustrated look around. Her cheeks were flusttered red as she realized that she had ruined her own ambush and chance of catching Hayate. Getting herself out of the jacket, she glanced at it. Huffing, she decided to wrap it around her waist as she thought of a new plan. Kiyomi and Leo looked at the scene. Leo grinned, glad that his comrade wasn't that easily caught. Kiyomi also found it amusing, but she was wondering what would follow now.

Blending in with the crowd, Hayate wondered what his next move should be. It was clear now that he had managed to buy himself a little bit of time, but he didn't know just how long this exercise was supposed to go on for. If necessary he could find a place to hide and simply stay there until Mimi gave up, but that didn't feel like it would teach him much, or her for that matter. Continuing to move further into the crowd, Hayate tried to come up with a plan, some way of ending this exercise without getting caught...

Walking out of the alley, Mimi looked around. But she couldn't see Hayate anymore. Rubbing her right arm, she only noticed the bruises by now. Feeling the bitter taste of defeat, it became worse. Surprised, she looked up when a hand tapped her head. ''Think this is far enough.'' Kiyomi politely said. Mimi looked down, feeling bitter that she had ruined her only shot. But she didn't want to argue back as she blamed herself. Leo shoved his hands into his pockets as he threw a curious look at Kiyomi. ''Why not continue, sensei?'' The question made Kiyomi glance back at Leo. ''The point was to see how each of you did it when it came to stealth and not relying on ninjutsu. Though one could argue that only Hayate made it, all of you three did an amazing job. I have seen enough to know that you three are doing it well enough. Going on would be pointless and overdoing it.'' With her earphone communicator on, Kiyomi hoped that Hayate would hear it and come out of hiding.

Appearing out of the earth behind Leo-san, Hayate held a smile on his face. "Are we finished then Kiyomi-sama?" He asked politely. Turning towards leo he placed a hand on the boy's shoulder. "Sorry about my mistake back there Leo-san. I tried to help, but only ended up giving you away." His answer was that Leo shrugged as he shook his head. ''Kind of my own fault, I guess. I got too careless and thought I could outsmart an Academy student with ease.'' This made Mimi look susprised. Leo looked with a more serious look as he stretched out his right fist. ''You got the right spirit to join Team Two, you know?'' This caused the cheeks of Mimi to flustter again as she looked down. Stuttering, Kiyomi giggled briefly.

''I suppose Leo is right, but come. Lets take a break. For now we are done with the stealth training.'' Kiyomi said, patting Mimi's head again. The girl was still looking at the ground. Beckoning the others to follow her, Kiyomi decided to lead them away, but before Hayate would be able to move, Mimi reached out a hand to stop him. ''This is yours.'' Unwrapping the jacket of Hayate, she kept her eyes focused on the ground while offering his jacket back.

Kneeling down, Hayate took the jacket from the little girl, holding it for a moment. Staring at Mimi, he wondered what to say. "Turn around." He said finally, his tone gentle. Waiting for the girl to turn, Hayate gently raised the jacket and helped to put it on her. "You earned this today Mimi-chan. You did excellent. I am proud of you."

The words of Hayate caused Mimi to look confused up, but she did what told her. As he helped her to put on the jacket, there was slight confusion as she looked at the sleeves. The jacket was too big for her, but it had something to it. Speecheles, she turned on her heels to look back at Hayate. The bitter and defeated look of before vanished away as she beamed towards Hayate. There was even a slight hint that she was about to shed some tears, but instead of staring at Hayate, she grabbed him by the hand as she turned around. ''Mimi loves it! Mimi is going to wear it from now on!'' While she tried to pull Hayate with her, she flashed a cheeky grin. ''Mimi will wear it until she is also a hero!'' Winking at Hayate, she pointed to Kiyomi and Leo.

The two were conversing about something as Leo made some gestures with his hand. ''But wouldn't that be possible?'' He asked Kiyomi, who shook her head. ''In order to be good with taijutsu you need to have not only some good agility, reflexes and strength. You need to be able to keep up with your foe. Some people like me can try to read movements and able to predict them. In order to learn that, it will take a lot of experience and sharp reflexes to catch on with that.'' Noticing that both Hayate and Mimi were back, Kiyomi took a sligh pause. She had noticed what Mimi was wearing, but didn't show any emotion about it as she turned her attention back to Leo. ''Though a person can train their senses, everything has a limit. Yes, I can use heightened senses due Mata-sama, but that doesn't mean I can unlimited expand them with training or experience. All I can do is to try to sharpen my other skills and abilities.''

Smiling widely as Mimi grew so excited, Hayate couldn't help but feel a flush of pride in the girl. She was something special that was for sure. Following the girl for a few steps as they approached Kiyomi and Leo, Hayate decided to give her a piggyback instead. Reaching down he easily picked up the small Mimi and placed her over his shoulders. "There. How's that?" He asked, still smiling. Listening in on the conversation between Kiyomi and Leo, Hayate found himself paying close attention.

Grabbing softly Hayate by his hair, she giggled as she then patted his head. ''Mimi finds it awesome!'' Though she wanted to spread her arms and laugh out loud, she realized that they were walking through the crowd. Seemed like they were heading to some place. Meanwhile, Kiyomi kept on explaining something to Leo. ''In that kind of way, we are all limited. All that you could do is to train, but it isn't really my speciality.'' She told Leo, who seemed to ponder as he had a frown placed over his brow. ''I see. I see. I will think about it. I know that Yumi-san was highly skilled in fighting with stealth. I kind of...'' He stopped talking and for a moment, Kiyomi glanced at him. But she decided to say something. ''We are going to eat some icecream. But I will need one person to help me to move a package. Hayate, mind to help me in a bit?'' Kiyomi asked, looking over her shoulder.

Realizing that this would give them a good chance to talk, Hayate nodded his head. "Absolutely Kiyomi-sama." Trying to lighten the mood a little, for the sake of Mimi and Leo, Hayate gestured up at his 'ride-along.' "I take it this isn't the package we are delivering?" His gesture earned a giggle from Mimi, who patted Hayate's head again and Leo grinned. ''Sensei, really, she seems like a fine addition to the team.'' This caused Mimi to blush again, muttering something. Kiyomi hummed briefly. ''Mimi is indeed a very good Academy Student. But for now she is an Academy Student. I don't have the influence nor the intention to have her rush through her Academy period.'' Kiyomi calmly replied as she then patted Leo's shoulder. ''But time to split up. You and Mimi should head back to Azumi. Me and Hayate and will need to do something briefly, about a package. Then-'' Kiyomi wanted to finish, but Mimi was faster.

''Mimi thinks that you will come back with Silly Face, with ice cream?'' This earned her a warm smile from Kiyomi, who nodded. ''Yes. It won't take too long, promised.''

Grinning, Hayate set Mimi down on the ground gently. Patting her on the head, he looked back up to Leo. "See you both soon, try not to get into too much trouble okay?" His tone remained amused, and he nodded once to both of them before turning back to Kiyomi. As soon as he turned, most of the light faded from his eyes. The two behind him wouldn't notice it, but Kiyomi would probably catch it if she saw him. Hayate was truly dreading what lay ahead, but it was a necessity. "Ready?" He asked.

''Ready. See you two soon!'' Without much of a warning, Kiyomi turned around and used chakra enhanced dash and jumps to go on ahead. Mimi puffed her cheeks as she would wait to see the two head their way. Leo reached a hand, which made Mimi stare in his direction. But eventually she took his hand and the two headed towards Azumi. ''So, about that tackle...'' Leo started.

Leading towards the north, Kiyomi seemed to head towards a flat rooftop where she would come to a halt. Looking around her, she seemed to search for something. However, her smile and polite expression was gone. It was replaced by a mere neutral and bland look. That and her fists were clenched into fists, which would be more than a clear signal.

Hayate had taken to the underground to follow Kiyomi, rather than taking the high ground. He could sense her emotions well before he neared her though, and as he rose out of the earth and leapt to the roof, Hayate felt far more afraid than he ever had in her presence. Landing on the roof, he approached, his head held low. "I am sorry Kiyomi... I did not mean for my question to interrupt the training you had planned."

Glancing at Hayate with a look sideways, it seemed that she wanted to turn to say something back. However, with a quick move, she dashed forwards with her right hand clenched into a fist. Aiming to suddenly strike at his face, it was a mere feint. The fist would open up, trying to grab him by the shoulder where she would then try to land a kick in the side.

Reflexes and instinct kicked his body into motion well before his mind even had a chance to process what had happened. Bringing one arm up, Hayate blocked Kiyomi's fist, knocking it to the side. Stepping in closer to her in order to cut off his sensei's range of motion, Hayate was confused as to why she was attacking. That confusion made him hesitate in launching a counter attack. The sudden side kick from Kiyomi almost caught him off guard, but Hayate managed to catch the leg as it connected with his ribs. Wrapping an arm around her leg, he whipped his body around. Using the remaining momentum from the kick to aid in his spin, Hayate attempted to throw Kiyomi off balance. Stepping away, he took a defensive stance, his eyes narrowed.

Quickly placing her hands at the rooftop, Kiyomi pushed herself on her feet, skidding to a halt. Scoffing, she whipped out a kunai from her holster. Without any warning, she ran towards Hayate again, holding the kunai in a reversed grip. Her first swing was a fake attempt to try to slash at Hayate's arms, but it was a move to try to drive Hayate backwards or else to keep him defense until she would spot an opening.

After making sure Origami is keeping her students distracted by beginning the mission, Tora moved a bit further away. Being informed by her operative that most Kiri are currently somewhere else made it clear that she was most likely safe to use that technique, while making it seem as if she was merely ensuring the area around her students was safe from any rouge shinobi. What her students didn't know is that the whole part about rouge shinobi was completely made up, to give herself a reason to become seperate from the others while Origami looked over them. After a bit of running away, she stopped on a tree branch and looked around. After a few moments, she closed her eyes and focused on the Dragon seal that was hidden beneath the very weird looking tattoo "Zakito, I have a report to give you. Please reply." She did not speak out loud, but in her mind. She knew the seal would send the message to him, regardless of how far away they might be.

There was a brief silence before she would hear a voice responding back. ''I am all ears.'' Zakito answered back.

Hearing his voice, Tora nodded "It has been about a year since I last gave you a report, and now I have several things to inform you. During the past year of being under Rika, I have noticed she is managing to keep a rather stable appearance in front of the whole village and even raising a son. I am aware, however, that she is still keeping a rather large eye on any previous agents we had in Kiri, which is why currently, I only have a single one under me, and I am managing to keep myself and the other agent under the radar. We also have a way to ensure Rika will not interfere with our activity, at the case she does find out." She told him, and then thought about what will be the next thing she will inform him.

"Earlier today, according to the knowledge of my agent, Rika had gathered many ANBU agents and left the village. She also told me that she managed to see they were heading towards the docks, but not if they reached there. I suspect, and the other agent agrees with me, that something big is going on, and Rika is trying to cover it by only using ANBU agents, the shinobi no one will notice are gone. I do not know why she would need so many ANBU agents." Tora decided to inform him of that fact first, knowing this was the more important thing on the table.

There was yet another brief moment of silence before the stern voice responded again. ''Make a shadow clone. It is time for a meeting.'' Judging by the sound, it was a clear order that wouldn't take a no for an answer.

Nodding once more, Tora opened her eyes and did the shadow clone jutsu, and an instant later a clone stood next to her. She gave a nod to the clone before heading away, and the clone bit her finger and formed several handseals before pressing her hand against the branch. The familiar dark sphere formed around her and soon enough the clone was gone, and the real Tora was heading back in the direction of her students, waiting to hear the results of the meeting.

Sitting at the top of the long stone table, Zakito noticed how several people came walking into the old and somewhat dusty looking spacious room. Silently each person took a seat. Nobody was making any sound that wasn't needed. No words spoken. Other than the movements of people breathing, walking and taking there place, there was a strange silence. Eyeing each person that came into the room, the remaining Dragon remained quiet as well. Just four more had to join the meeting.

Upon arriving at the location of the meeting, Tora looked around a bit. She had seen this place before, but not with so many people around. She slowly walked inside, not looking at anyone more than she needed, nor did she wish to keep up the fake personality now that she was in such a place. She also knew that Tora's personality would be extremely unfitting, seeing Zakito asking for such a meeting meant that something big was going on. She went and sat in the table, 3 chairs to the left of Zakito, knowing her place will never be next to him.

Right after Tora moved in the room, Chase entered the room. Like her, it was the first time he had seen the old room be filled with so many people. He examined it quickly and guessed it was around a number of thirty or so around. Taking a place more at the end of the table, he crossed his arms and leaned back in the stone chair. For a moment he wanted to sigh as the stone chairs weren't that comfortable as the chair of the Raikage.

''I am glad that you all were able to attend so quickly.'' Zakito began, his friendly and polite tone however absent. Placing his hands on the table, he glanced around. The men and women, both young and old would see the rather serious and grim expression being displayed over the face of the man. ''Today is going to be a new day for the organization. Not only due the several troubles that have arisen, but also because the final changes are in place.'' Zakito said, taking a second to pause. ''The goal of our organization has always been fixed on balance. To keep a balance that would prevent the rise of another terrible world war. Of course, to also prevent our old enemy to achieve their goal as their ways have always contradict our objective.'' Taking another moment of silence, Zakito folded his hands together as he would say something that would surprise and shock, mostly the elderly people at the table.

''Today, we aren't going to fight for Balance. We will forsake it for a better and more just goal.''

Listening carefully, Tora was somewhat surprised when Zakito announced they will be forsaking the goal of balance. What goal would possibily be better than it? She wondered in her own thoughts, but also kept an eye on Chase. The moment she spotted him, she wondered if he had any idea about her. Deciding that could wait, She straightened herself in her seat and looked at Zakito once more.

Surprised, Chase also frowned. He was also wondering what would come next. But some of the more older mentors started to mutter and some even to demand to know what Zakito was plotting. Simply raising his right hand, they would feel a very cold breeze. A clear warning. ''We will forsake the Balance as a goal to strive for. Our enemy has changed after the major defeat at the last events. Even more than us they had to deal with loss of members due death or deserting their ranks. However, I believe that they have managed to coop better with how the world has changed.'' Zakito told them, which caused many of those who weren't happy with his previous words to become silent. One of the mentors stood up and frowned at the Hon. ''And how is it that you have such information then?''

The question was met with a mere bland look from the Hon. ''Simple. From the past month I have received reports from both you as some of my own agents that our enemy has focused once more on Bijuu. They have had some good sucess in capturing even heavily guarded jinchuriki and extracting their beasts. But there is also the problem that we have no clear idea on who is leading them. They have adapted better and faster than we have.''

Standing up now, Tora looked at the Hon for a moment before looking at the other mentor "As of now, I have become aware that many places have a huge risk of being exposed to either us or the enemy. Even in Kirigakure, the fact I am capable of keeping myself hidden from the eyes of our former member, Rika Suzu, means that there is a very high chance that operatives from the enemy work there without anyone knowing. I also have a feeling some of the former members of the Dragon Lotus, after being exposed by Rika, might have been interrogated by the enemy. While they did not possess any recent information due to the fact I have not made any contact with them, they did possess some information about us, which is a threat on its own." She said, but the voice speaking was not the voice of Tora. It was the voice of Ino Namikaze.

The other mentor sat down and after Ino had spoken, Chase cleared his throat as he rose up. ''I want to ask, why hasn't there been nothing done about Rika? She is a clear threat to us. Wouldn't it be better to erase her now?'' Though he was suspecting that there would be something personally driving him, it was more an objective curiousity that made him to ask the question. Listening to both mentors that had spoken, Zakito answered them. He first threw a look at Ino. ''I will then let you deal with those past members. See what is needed to be done with them.'' Zakito coldly said before he turned his attention to Chase. ''Rika has been a thorne in the side, but right now she pose little threat unlike what may seem. Our system on how we operate has changed. The most locations that Rika has been or knew off have been adapted and secured.'' He paused, looking once more around. ''But like I said, I have my own sources and your reports. With the enemy acting in such a way that they have been able to launch several risky operations at the same time and over a huge area makes me believe that they are regaining strength in numbers. Something we haven't done in some time.''

A woman stood up as she pointed to herself. ''Dragon, I have to admit that the branch under my leadership hasn't recruited anybody in the past years, but wasn't it that we would need strong and capable shinobi and people among our ranks? Are you implying that we should take and recruit an army of brats to do our bidding?'' Some of the other mentors nodded or muttered that they agreed. Zakito shook his head slowly. ''No. I am not implying such a thing. But it is growing slowly in that direction. I believe that we won't gain any ground or advantage over our old enemy if we just try to tighten our security and change our ways of operating and leading. We need to recruit more loyal people. Those who will stay and who we believe have a good reason or bond to stay loyal to the Order. That is why I for example have sent two young recruits to the Sea Country. To prove my point already. Or haven't I?'' Zakito asked while he looked at an old man. The old man leaned on a cane and had a rather grumpy look on his face. But silently he nodded.

"I agree with Dragon. As long as we can recruit people who are loyal to the group, then we need to care less about their abilities. I am not saying that we can recruit six year olds, but anyone who will prove that they are willing to do anything for the group can be trained and become a better shinobi. While I may not be the best of examples, I have recruited a year ago someone who is. This agent, who I constantly look over, have proven to me time and time again of what loyalty means to her, and she helped me greatly, and even as of now, we are working on a new system to gather more knowledge within Kirigakure, with a minimum amount of people, but people who will be loyal. If they are loyal, then we can be certain they will do anything in their power to help up." Ino said and sat down in her chair once more "Not to mention, even if the other group has an army, but they are not truly loyal to them, then the army might as well be made of a single man." She added with the old, cold tone that she haven't used in a long time.

Chase remained quiet the entire time. He understood that the organization, both the Dragon Lotus as the enemy had adapted to the changing world. With having been Raikage for some time he understood that it would be needed to adapt if the enemy would also change. Else they would be too stuck while the enemy progressed. However, he wasn't sure what the new goal was. All he had heard was that the order had taken some changes. Rising up, Chase decided to ask it. ''But what is the new goal then?'' He politely asked.

''The new objective, the main objective, is to keep the peace. Though that seems simple, I have appointed old members and trustworthy members, which you all are, as mentors. The Dragon Lotus isn't like before a single unified group. It is now divided among branches with each having a mentor as leader. Each one of you is needed to lead their group in order to make sure that our enemy won't gain any ground to see their wrong doings from being completed. Until we aren't sure what their new goal is, we will try to make sure at first that they won't succeed in it if its similiar to their old objective.'' Zakito responded. He leaned a bit back in his seat. ''Are there any questions?'' Most mentors seemed to think about what had been told. A few seemed to be unsure about it, but the most seemed to be content and understanding the new objective.

"Peace, huh? That is a very nice objective, but tensions are already rising all around. How will prevent a war without exposing ourselves to all? Because some people, like the current Kazekage, would most likely jump on the first chance at creating a war." Ino said and kept her gaze down to the table for a few moments before looking at Chase "We already lost a few strong members in the past, and not everyone is in a high position in their village." She added, moving her gaze to Zakito while speaking.

It became silent and Chase threw a frown in Ino's direction. Crossing his arms, the man had a rather displeasing look in Ino's direction. It took him a while before he realized who she was. But when it dawned on him that Ino had changed her appearance, he kept his mouth closed instead of making a remark about her. ''There are some rising tensions and I suspect that we won't be instantly able to prevent any conflict. However, sometimes there is a need of a conflict in order to make a better peace.'' Zakito said. A mentor rose up from his seat. ''Though I disagree, I want to react on her.'' The rather young looking mentor had a frown as well on his face. ''How come it that you know of the Kazekage while you're branch is in Kirigakure? You just said that you don't have that much connections yet, but then mention a leader countries away?''

"Do you not know who the Raikage is? Or the Mizukage? It is important to keep on an eye on the leaders of the world, as they can easily make a rather large change in the status of the world. And knowing who the leaders of the world are is not that difficult, at least for general information. Information on this Kazekage, however, I collected before I became the mentor of the Kirigakure branch. I have knowledge on many people all around the world. It might not be completely correct by now, but seeing the Kazekage has remained the same for over a year now, I doubt his personality somewhat changed. He is quite focused on some things, dont you think?" Ino said and leaned backwards on her chair.

The mentor that had asked the question sat down, but he still had a frown in the direction of Ino. Chase saw this as confirming that it was indeed Ino. Finding it a bit strange that she was a mentor, he realized it was probably due his personal opinion about her. ''So how are we going to proceed now? If we only know that the enemy is gathering numbers and plotting and striking from the unknown, how will we aim to stop them?'' The man questioned. Zakito took a moment before he spoke back. ''We will continue with focusing on trying to build each branch of the Dragon Lotus in becoming able to suffice their own needs. Our main objective may be peace, but I realize that not every branch can operate or have the same objective as another. Each of you is thus required to think more on your own to see what you need to do in your area in order to confine and fight back the enemy. Of course to also try to find out possible information on who is linked to them. Directly or indirectly.'' Was his answer. This made Chase think as he realized that it would mean he would have to adapt likely his branch. His area was whole of Kumogakure. That was a considerable amount of people he would need to watch and check to make sure that the enemy wouldn't try to do anything. Not anymore at least.

Ino closed her eyes and thought a bit. Their current objective was to keep the peace, but at the same time they needed to recruit more agents. She wondered if it would be possible for her to do this without Rika noticing. She decided that after a year of not recruiting anyone she might give it a try, but she would need to look over who she will recruit very carefully.

''I have a question.'' A woman that seemed to look in her fifties stood up. There were three scars visible on her face. ''What does our enemy likely know?'' The question caused most of the mentors glance at their leader. ''That several of us are high ranked members of the organization.'' Zakito simply answered. This seemed to displease the woman. ''And what will be done about that? I already am sleeping with one eye open, but I thought we would also value our own security?'' She kind of threw the question in a rude manner towards Zakito. But he remained calm as he replied to her. ''Even while the enemy knows of some of us being part of the Dragon Lotus or even knowing what our role is, they haven't acted directly against us yet. This makes me believe that they know it is either too risky or that they want to eradicate some other factions and factors.'' Chase thought about it. Then he realized something. Rogue and enemy factors... I get it. Though he wanted to ask something, he had a hunch he already knew the answer to the question.

Nodding, she understood what Zakito was meaning. It would only make sense, take out any factors or factions that might suddenly turn on them or join their enemies "As for now, I would make sure to keep an eye on more than just the enemy. Many regular villages and people consider the Dragon Lotus to be their enemy, the best example would be Rika Suzu." Ino said, still keeping her eyes closed and not looking at any of the other mentors. She felt like while this was something obvious, someone still needed to point it out to make sure it is taken more seriously by everyone.

Some mumbled that they agreed and it became clear that it was settled. ''Good. Then I suppose we are done for now. Please try to seek a way to bring me a report, but not in any kind of obvious way. Though our system of operating and leading have been adapted now, I am starting to become supicious that we are forgetting several things. I thank you for your time being present here.'' That having said made most mentors stand up as they made a bow towards Zakito before they poofed away. Chase also stood up, bowed and poofed away.

Tora waited for all of the other mentors to poof away before approaching Zakito "I have been unable to tell you this before, because of your request to have this meeting, but allow me to finish my report now. After also hearing you say that the enemy has made a move, I suspect what Rika is dealing with in secret might be involved with the enemy, but I will need to further investigate that. I also have a way of ensuring Rika will not trouble the Dragon Lotus for a long time, after finding a very curious bit of detail with the help of Origami. If I come across any other major details, I will inform you. Good Day, Zakito-sama. Ino said and gave him a bow as well before poofing away.

The man simply nodded. He thought about what Ino had told him, but it was clear that most people had forgotten about it. Rika wasn't a problem. She had dug her own grave with her betrayel and leaving the Dragon Lotus. Leaning back in the seat, Zakito thought about the more unknown leader of the enemy. For some reason he was conviced it was better at how it had been in the past. At least then the enemy had a face. Sighing, he also poofed away.

Seeing Kiyomi pull out the kunai, Hayate could no longer afford to simply stay on the defensive and wait to see what she was trying to do. Preparing himself, Hayate made no move to draw his own weapon. Kiyomi's kunai slashed towards him and cut deep into his--afterimage. The real Hayate had moved in behind Kiyomi and launched a kick towards her lower back. He was still confused as to why Kiyomi was coming at him like this, but Hayate decided to let his instincts and reflexes take over until he could discover the reason.

''Stupid.'' She muttered. With a quick sidestep, Kiyomi moved to the right as she had expected him to use that move. It was the move she had taught him. Though she kept on moving, reacting to his attack, she could briefly see the memory. The training field where they had practised the technique. Bringing up her knee in a quick motion, she was about to slam his leg between her elbow and knee, which would break his leg if she would put a great amount of force behind it.

"Do you really think I'm that dumb?" Hayate asked, standing several feet away, as Kiyomi's attack would once again strike through his afterimage. "I'm not foolish enough to think I could truly trick you with the very move that you taught me." His eyes still narrowed, Hayate did not wish to attack Kiyomi, not unless he absolutely had to, and even then...

Placing her foot back, she had almost looked surprised. Though Hayate had used and mastered it to an advanced level, he had managed to use it in such a quick succession? So far, she thought she had only been able to do that. Lowering her hands, she glared at him. Slowly after a moment of staring, she raised her chin a bit up before speaking up. ''Yet, you are doing something that you shouldn't be doing.'' She said before running towards him again. With a quick slash, she wanted to keep his attention at the kunai, while opening her left hand. Moulding chakra, but not revealing yet what she would do.

The short pause between attacks had given Hayate enough time to gather his metal alloy around his body. Instead of moving to avoid the incoming kunai, Hayate allowed it to hit him so that he could move into a better position. The blade sliced through the fabric of his shirt and bounced off the metal armour that covered his body. Shifting his body so that he was slightly behind Kiyomi, Hayate launched a flurry of punches and kicks, fully aware that she was more than capable of blocking them all. His intent wasn't to injure her though, he wanted to delay her until he had a chance to find out what was happening. "Why are you doing this Kiyomi?" He asked, his voice sounding conflicted.

Blocking the moves, she didn't reply back. Dodging a kick, Kiyomi already moved her hands up to ready herself to swat away his punches. Using her keen reflexes and sharp eyesight, it was more easy for her to predict his movements. Suddenly, when he raised to punch her, she seemed to be too late. The punch hit her against her cheek, causing her to stumble back. Grunting, she seemed to stumble and looked hurt before Hayate would have a sweep of a leg coming behind him. The Kiyomi in front of him was a mere afterimage.

A moment of confusion struck him as Kiyomi seemed to reel back from a blow that he didn't feel landing. Realization hit him, and Hayate's eyes widened, his body already moving to react. He wasn't fast enough to dodge the leg sweep however, and he felt himself falling. Twisting his body, Hayate managed to get his hands beneath him and used them to push off the ground. His handspring carried him backwards and he landed, somewhat less gracefully than intended, on his feet.

Right a second after it, Kiyomi was already moving in with the kunai. ''Dead.'' She whispered, holding the kunai near his throat, as she stopped her movement. Slowly moving the kunai back and sheltering it, she still looked with a glare. ''You have clearly improved your taijutsu and mastery of that technique. However, you're keeping something away from me. I thought we had agreed that we would be open to each other, hadn't we?'' Kiyomi asked, fully knowing well how hypocritical it was for her to question it.

Opening his mouth, for a split second Hayate was about to argue that his metal armour would have prevented the kunai from actually killing him, but he decided instead to bite his tongue. "I think it's also clear that I haven't improved enough yet..." He muttered to himself, his voice bitter. Turning away from Kiyomi for a second, Hayate was torn. "I... I am sorry. I never meant to keep anything from you, it's just that... I just..." Sighing, he turned back to face her. "Look, I don't know anything for certain, I have only heard a rumour. That is why I didn't come to you right away, I wanted to find out more if I could." Looking at her with a pained expression in his eyes, Hayate did not know what to say.

''Yet, you questioned me such a thing. Don't try to save it now. What is the big thing? I already am guessing and I doubt you will like what I am thinking. Cause if it is what I am thinking, I am going to report it right now. What is going on in the clan of yours?'' Kiyomi asked, with a stern voice. She raised her chin a bit up again, while placing her hands at her back. Though she hated to speak and act like that to Hayate, she wanted to have answers.

"Just... No." Letting out a frustrated sigh, Hayate shook his head. "As far as I have been able to discover, there is nothing going on. I heard a minor rumour in passing that one of the clan elders may still be more loyal to Iwagakure than to Konoha. I did some checking myself and have uncovered nothing to support that theory. It just got me worried Kiyomi, I... I thought that by asking you what you would do, I might find some clarity on what I would need to do if I found out the rumour was true, but now I am just... Look, I was wrong to keep that from you, and I am sorry for that. But a part of the reason I kept it hidden was to avoid something like this happening. If you go and report this to the Hokage, and they take action against my clan, this whole thing could get blown out of proportion and cause some major damage." He paused for a moment, locking eyes with Kiyomi. "You do know where my loyalty lies... right?"

For a moment, Kiyomi looked away. Konohagakure. That was what she saw as she looked at her right from the rooftop. The village that provided her a place when she had nowhere else to go. The place she called her home. ''I like to believe I do.'' Kiyomi slowly answered. Taking a step back, she looked with a worried glance at Hayate. ''I need to know more. I-I... I can't let anything bad happen. Even if it means shedding blood of your kin, you know that someting must be done, right? I have a duty to carry out. I need to report this.'' Again, Kiyomi took another step backwards. She seemed to be wary, like he would try to prevent her from running away towards the office. But her lower lip was trembling. She was wavering.

Dropping to one knee, Hayate bowed his head. "My loyalty belongs to you first and then this village Kiyomi-chan. If you feel that you need to report this then I will not stand in your way." His voice was strained, and he hoped that Kiyomi did not fear him. Her actions made it seem like she couldn't trust him, and that cut him to his core. "Please Kiyomi... I understand what you are saying, and I would never stand in the way of the safety of this village. But reporting this could do more harm than good. If what I heard was nothing more than a rumour, then my entire clan could be slaughtered for nothing! Innocent lives thrown away because I didn't do a good enough job of finding the truth. My life is in your hands right now Kiyomi-chan, my families lives... Please give me some more time to find the truth, if you trust me, then please... I will let no harm come to this village, but I cannot let innocent people die for nothing..." His head still hung low to the ground, fully prepared to deal with any of the consequences. It was up to Kiyomi now, and Hayate just hoped that she still trusted him enough.

She was conflicted and confused. Her wits told her to run and inform the Hokage. Her insticts told her to run and try to forget about it. Yet, her feelings were telling her to give him a chance. But she realized that they were biased. Her feelings towards Hayate would give him a chance, but was it okay to rely on that? Kiyomi didn't want to even consider if his feelings weren't true. It only caused her to become more confused about the whole situation. Dropping to her knees, she turned a bit pale. Not because she felt ill or was suffering another attack, but knowing what she was doing. ''They will kill me for this. B-But, I can't.'' She whispered. Her shoulders trembled, knowing full well what her action could invoke. She was now compromising the safety of many innocent people, just for her feelings towards Hayate.

Finally looking up, Hayate saw Kiyomi on her knees. He felt a mixture of guilt and relief as he heard her words. He hadn't wanted to put her in this situation, not ever, but he couldn't help the feeling of relief as he realized that she trusted him enough to put the safety of the village on the line. Moving forwards until he was right in front of Kiyomi, Hayate gently grabbed onto her shoulders. "I will not fail you Kiyomi, I will not fail this village. You have my promise." Holding her for a moment longer, Hayate's eyes suddenly turned cold. "If I find out that the rumour is true... If my clan is planning to harm the people of this village in any way... I will kill every last one of them."

The thud ran through the air. Tears were flowing down her cheek. Though the palm of her hand was aching, her lips curled down as she looked angry at him it were mostly his words that had hurt her. ''Listen yourself.'' She mumbled. Looking at the hand she had used to slap him, she slowly flexed in her fingers into making a fist. ''You value me more important than all those people? You think that you're able to kill them just like that? All alone? You want to carry that blame?'' She fired the questions, but her tone was soft and calm.

A stinging sensation filled one side of his face as Hayate realized that she had just slapped him. The cold look fell from his eyes and he stared at her for a moment. "Yes..." He finally whispered. His response could technically have answered all of her questions, but Hayate had only been responding to the first. She would probably hate him for that, but he didn't care... She had asked him to be honest with her and he intended to stay that way. "I don't know if I can take them all out myself... Hell, we both know that I need to be much stronger to take that chance, but I... If it needs to be done Kiyomi, then I will carry out my duty as a shinobi of the leaf. I cannot be afraid of failure. The blame... I..." Looking up, his eyes were pained, and he couldn't help thinking back to the squadmates that he had lost during Shoji's reign. They had died under his command and as far as he was concerned, he may as well have killed them himself. "I would never wish that burden on anyone Kiyomi-chan... But it is my duty... My responsibility. Hiron-sama made it clear long ago that a shinobi needs to put duty first, and that they need to be able to handle loss... I think I know what he meant now. And this is something that I have to do."

That was low. She considered it low. Using Hiron's words like that. But he was right. Yet, she wanted to slap him again, call him naive and dumb. But he wasn't anything like that. But while she knew it, it didn't take away that she wanted to do it. Looking still at her trembling fist, she realized that it would been soon that Hayate would be dragged into a lot of trouble. Should she really not inform the Hokage of this? Hayate was maybe a capable shinobi, but all alone trying to shoulder this? Kiyomi didn't want to see that happen. ''Hayate, no. Please don't.'' She tried to start. Killing family, relatives and siblings? She wasn't even sure if Hayate had any. But she had experienced what it was to have a sibling that wanted to kill you. It was anything but a healthy experience.

"I still don't even know if any of this is true Kiyomi. Believe me when I say that I don't want it to come to that, not at all... But if it does, if it somehow comes to that, how could you ask me to put that in someone else's hands?" He asked her quietly. "I need you to know that I will do whatever it takes to keep this village and its people safe. To keep you safe... I will not let anyone stand in the way of that." Deep down Hayate was conflicted. Though his words sounded confident, he was far from it. He wasn't a murderer... At least he had never looked at it that way, but if it came down to it, would he really be able to kill his fellow clanmembers in cold blood? Hayate truly didn't know, but when and if the time came, he would have to be sure.

''I-If you kill them all by yourself.. Consider us...done.'' She told him. Slowly rising up, she turned her back towards Hayate. Taking a step away, she realized what kind of effect her words would have on him, but she wanted to try to prevent him from taking that path. She didn't want him to be seen as a murderer. If the truth would ever come out and she knew it would likely come out. ''I have no desire of wanting to have a murderer stay that close to me.'' This time her voice sounded less hoarse, but more stern.

The words felt like a knife being plunged into his chest. "Kiyomi, I..." His words failed him as his arms fell to his sides in defeat. "What would you have me do...?" His voice was barely more than a whisper, and Hayate couldn't even bear to look at her, he felt too ashamed. ''To make the right decision.'' She told him back. Her back was still turned towards him. ''It needs to be clear that I am not everything you need to devote your life for. It is very simple. Either you seek a middle way and thus at one point confront the Hokage or try to do this alone, losing me.'' She turned half around as she managed to keep up a stern expression.

Clenching his hands into fists, Hayate nodded. Somehow finding the strength to stand, he looked at Kiyomi. "I don't want to lose you Kiyomi-chan... Not ever. I... I will do what I can to make this right..." He did not know what else to say. Things were still so unclear, and now he was even more conflicted than before. He would give up almost anything to keep this village safe, but Kiyomi was always the one thing he couldn't let go of. And now she was asking him to choose a different course... Hayate knew that he was going to be confused for quite some time, but for now he needed to focus on fixing this. "I am sorry... I have let you down in so many ways..."

''Lets not continue about this. Not for now.'' Kiyomi replied. She didn't like the subject. That and she had to think about it. Letting Hayate do this all on his own? No. But if she would report to the Hokage, it would be likely betraying Hayate's trust. What else could she actually do? Just be silent about it and then later face the consquence of holding back important information? Sighing, she glanced at him. Less angry and stern. ''I will give you three days. The exams are coming up soon and I want you to be focused. It will mean that I can train you that much, cause this is important too. But I hope you do the chakra control training every evening before going to sleep.''

Nodding his head, Hayate was a little relieved that they were changing topics. Though a part of him wanted to fix things, he realized that they were both gonna need some time and space from the issue to actually accomplish that. "I have been training that for awhile, hopefully it helps. I have spent some time practicing the way that... the way that Tsubasa showed me as well. Working with the metal to try and refine my control and understanding over it." He felt a small pang of sadness as he thought back to the person who had taught him so much about smithing, and about metal. Hayate had never thought that someone outside of his clan would have such a vast knowledge of the subject. Turning back to Kiyomi he cocked his head to the side. "It is clear that I need to improve my taijutsu skills as well, but is there anything else that you can think of?"

She sighed, trying to think of something. But the previous subject was still disturbing her. It was hard to recommend something if the previous thoughts weren't going away. ''Best would be maybe trying to involve a summoning or another person that you haven't trained with to see how well you are with that. Though I can change easily from style, it isn't the same. If you want my advice, seek up somebody who you haven't train with for some time.'' Kiyomi advised. It was also so that she could have him be occupied while she could spend time thinking about the issue about his clan and what to do with the information.

It was a good idea, but Hayate still frowned slightly. He still wasn't that good with speaking to people he didn't know, and going to someone for training felt a little awkward for him. "I will see what I can do Kiyomi-chan." Thinking more about it, Hayate still didn't know what to do about their current situation. Glancing up at Kiyomi he bit his tongue. He wanted so badly to say more, but knew it would be the wrong choice.

All was set. The location and the right people. All of them were masked ANBU who were educated and experienced in using seal ninjutsu. Meisa sighed as she had just came from Amegakure. But this was needed to be done as fast as possible. After she had heard which possible candidates were assigned to be a fitting host, Meisa had made her choice. ''Please request Tatsuya Hon.'' Meisa asked. One of the ANBU would walk out of the hall to fetch the boy. She and the other present ANBU would wait in what was one of the more larger rooms in the headquarters of the Intelligence Division. Staring at a pot, standing on top of a stone table, the hair on Meisa's neck rose. The mere thought of being in the same room as what was sealed in the sturdy object was not a pleasant one.

Tatsuya was walking away from the Azumi on that day after a morning with his head planted into the books. Tomorrow's that day again, he thought, tilting his head upwards with a smile painted on his face. Today feels like it's gonna be a good day!

The ANBU had been selected to search for Tatsuya as he was a sensor. Running and jumping from rooftop to rooftop, the masked man held the Rat handsignal as he was trying to sense for Tatsuya. It would take him a while, but after heading towards Azumi, as it had been told that the boy was sighted at times at the place, the man noticed the boy walking towards the place. Approaching him, on a more walking pace, the ANBU cleared his throat. ''Tatsuya Hon?''

Upon hearing his name be called out, the boy stopped in his tracks. Waiting a moment before turning around, he looked at the man in surprise. "Yes, sir?" He wondered if it was someone he knew, seeing how the man seemed to know his name, though not his face too well. Shaking the thought away, he looked at the man's mask.

''Good day. Your presence is being requested. It is importance, Tatsuya.'' The ANBU didn't sound stern or harsh. All he said was done in a polite manner, as the man didn't want to spook or make the boy too nervous. ''It has been all been requested by the higher ups of Konohagakure.'' Hoping that would make the boy come along without struggeling or asking too many questions, the ANBU would wait to see what the response would be.

"I don't--" Tatsuya looked at the man baffled, holding in his breath for a few seconds before huffing. He nodded. "Understood, sir." Wondering what could have possible happened, he put on a smile, ready to follow the man to the location he would be led to. There was no point in thinking about it anyway. He was hoping to learn why he was called in a few minutes anyway.

---

Arriving at the front of the building, the ANBU would continue to lead Tatsuya inside. It seemed it wasn't that busy. There weren't a lot of people inside or at least where the two were heading. Turning around a corner, they would spot two ANBU that were guarding a door. Heading towards the two, the ANBU would open the door for Tatsuya. ''You may enter, Tatsuya.'' The ANBU said, on a soft tone.

Inside, Meisa was sitting on a chair. Reading a book, from the looks of it. There were no signs or appearances of any other person inside the room. Only a sturdy looking pot on the stone table. Hearing the door being opened, Meisa looked up from her book. Closing it, she flashed a smile towards Tatsuya.

Tatsuya bowed to the ANBU and thanked him before walking inside the room. Seeing an almost empty room upon passing through the door, the boy looked around a bit before noticing one person across the room, reading her book. When she noticed his presence, the boy flinched and straightened his back. He felt more at ease, seeing the friendly expression spread across the woman's face.

''Hai.'' Meisa greeted the boy, placing the book she had been reading on the table. Politely she shoved the chair right next to her, as a sign that Tatsuya could sit down. Crossing her legs and placing her hands on her lap, Meisa would wait until the boy sat down. ''My name is Meisa Ichi. Sorry for the room. If it were me, I would have chosen something less spooky. Or intimidating.'' Right after that, Meisa smiled again. ''Sorry. I shouldn't ramble. Do you wish to drink or eat something?''

"Nice to meet you, ma'am," Tatsuya said. Hesitantly sitting down on the chair she had gestured, the boy shook his head. "No, thank you..." He looked at her with anticipation, curious as to why he was called there. And he would get his answer as Meisa glanced one time at the jar. ''Okay. I am sorry for the sudden summoning. I bet that this must be very confusing. But there is a favor I wish to ask you. If you would allow me.'' Flashing a warm smile towards the boy.

"Er... Of course, ma'am," he said with a bemused look on his face. This is rather strange, the boy thought, watching Meisa carefully. What could a fresh genin like him do as a favour for a high ranked official like the person across him. Now that I think about it, another thing like this happened a few days back...

Meisa noticed that the boy was pondering. For a moment she wondered what he was thinking about. Perhaps he believed he was in trouble? Or trying to figure out why he was called. ''You look like a smart boy to me. I will be very honest with you. Okay?'' Meisa paused, keeping up the friendly expression and tone. ''To start, you can deny this. I don't want to sound like I am forcing this on you. If you want to refuse this, you can say so and then you will be left alone.'' The woman thought about something. ''Do you have any questions now?''

"I... I did have one," he said. What followed however sounded more like a mutter. "Though I guess this question would be answered whether or not I asked it..." He spoke up once more. "What is it exactly that you require of me, ma'am?" he asked.

''To become the new host of the Kyuubi.'' Meisa bluntly answered. The smile vanished as did the friendly expression. It shifted to a more worried one. ''We need a new host for the Tailed Beast to ensure it won't cause any future harm to the village. But to do so, we need a better container. That pot,'' Turning her head, Meisa threw a sideways glance at the object. ''Will only imprison the beast for a limited amount of time. Before it will break out.''

Tatsuya didn't answer for a moment, trying to process what he'd heard. "Ah..." He gulped, his eyes slowly sinking downwards. Without saying anything at first, he started nodding. "I... I understand," he said, raising his eyes once more. "So it would be..." He gestured to his chest. After another moment's pause, he spoke up. "Of... Of course."

If Meisa was surprised by his decision, she didn't show it. A smile, a rather sad one, appeared on her face. ''Thanks. But you may be selfish now. This is a heavy burden to ask of you. Sadly, it can't be given to any experienced or matured person. Considering that we have figured out how Bijuu chakra works, we only can seal a Beast in a person that needs to grow. Physically.'' Meisa explained. It wouldn't make it any better for him, but she found it fair that he would know at least that they had information to back up their choice. And not just decide to seal such a burden inside a child, cause they could. ''You don't have to answer me, but is there any goal or dream you have?''

"Th...There isn't," he answered, his voice a bit cracked. "Though if something like this helps the village..." He gulped once more. It wasn't a very easy decision but it was one he had made rather quickly, if not rashly. Things like Help the village were probably why he had accepted the abrupt demand. A fleeting feeling of being significant.

The woman stayed silent. Turning fully towards Tatsuya on her set, Meisa placed a hand on his head. Softly and very gently ruffling through his hair, she still had that sad smile. ''I know that it won't help. Neither you or the village, but know that I am very grateful for your decision.'' Placing the hand on his shoulder, she looked more serious. ''For that, I want to be clear with you. I am going to make sure that you won't be at much of a risk. The beast will be sealed in you, but it won't be able to get easily out. I won't allow that.'' Removing her hand, Meisa straighten her back as she sighed. ''I am not one for such words, but I am willing to place my life on that promise.''

Get out...? The boy didn't change the point on which his gaze was concentrated. He was tempted to ask what would happen if it did but her words assured him that there was no point in learning. Seeing how 'danger' and 'beast escaping your body' seemed to have a connection, he wasn't sure he wanted to know something like that anyway. His eyes rolled to the pot that apparently had the kyuubi in it.

Noticing where his gaze went to, Meisa turned her head to look at the pot too. ''There are people who have managed to overcome a tailed beast, you know?'' The words were spoken with a soft voice. Still looking at the pot, Meisa continued with that same soft voice. ''There is one person who I will request to help you. Unlike you, she is one of the jinchuriki's who never had a choice. I can't imagine nor think I should even try what it must be like.'' Meisa paused. ''For that, I will make sure that nobody will learn that you're a jinchuriki. That way, you're saved from of the pain of being treated differently. Would you want that?''

A more determined look appeared on his face and the trembling disappearing. "I.. I can understand how that would be convenient," he said. "I would very much appreciate it..." Tatsuya locked his gaze in front of him, parallel to the ground. I won't second thought anything like this... With his words, Meisa almost had scoffed. That word, convenient. For the Fire Union to get another Jinchuriki? Another means to frighten their rivals and enemies? Yes, very convenient. For the boy's own life and his future? No. This was anything but convenient if she had to be objective about it. ''Shall we get started then?''

The boy nodded. "Yes, ma'am." I hope I don't regret this...

It didn't happen everyday that two leaders of different countries met each other. Even though the Land of Fire and the Land of Lightning shared borders their higher ups hardly met outside of international events like the Chuunin Exams. Today, however, the Hokage appeared before the gates of Kumogakure to converse with the Raikage about delecate matters. Unlike what one might expect the man didn't travel with a big entourage. Only six ANBU and a young girl accompanied him, all standing a step behind their leader to show respect as they neared the entrance to the village.

As they were almost upon the gate Hisoka beckonned Kiyomi to come closer to him. "Remember," he said to her when she would arrive next to him, "this is an official meeting. You are not to talk unless you are spoken to and you are not to act unless you are asked to. Take your time to observe and learn."

Kiyomi nodded once. ''Understood, Hisoka-sama.'' Though she didn't look nervous, she felt everything but comfortable. This was a very important meeting. Way more important than the ones she had been allowed to visit. International even. For that she had decided to not bring Samehada with her, only having what seemed a regular katana stheathed in the scabbard on her back. For a moment she thought about Midori, wishing that she could spend time with her sister. Chasing horses like they once had done. But not today.

There were more guards at several streets of Kumogakure. Most people wouldn't notice a thing as most were undercover. Watching from their positions to make sure that nothing would go wrong. Standing in his office, Takeru couldn't see the approaching group heading to the gates. But he stared never the less at the village. If both Asami and Chizuko had done their work, today would go without any bad consquences for Kumogakure. Such as a unnesscary conflict or anything that would heavily damage Kumogakure. The guards at the gates would let Hisoka and his retinue pass. One of them would offer to escort and guide the Hokage to the Raikage office where they would hold the meeting.

"Hokage-sama." Hisoka corrected Kiyomi as he turned back to face the guard that came to get them. He gave the man a curt nod and followed him through the city. Kumogakure was actually one of the major cities that he kind of liked. He had hardly visited it, but the mountains gave it a somewhat peaceful look. Yet the main street didn't look so different from Konoha's. It was just another place with people. Before long he and his shinobi would arrive at the Raikage's office. He wondered briefly if the people of Kumo disliked him. It was after all a shinobi from Konoha that had killed their previous Raikage and had taken his place for quite a while, bringing the city down from the inside. Not that it mattered now. He was not her, and he was here for more important matters. With a serious look in his face he waited till the guard that was leading them would announce them.

Biting her lower lip, Kiyomi kept herself silent. Focus. Walking a step behind Hisoka, she couldn't ressist to look around. It was very slim she would see or catch a glimps of Midori. If she only could carry Samehada during a time like this, maybe she could then try to make the blade sense if she was nearby. Clenching her right hand into a fist, Kiyomi forced herself to focus on Hisoka. She wasn't here to ponder and imagine what things would be like. His safety was top priority right now.

''Lord Raikage. They are here.'' An ANBU entered the room as the doors were open. Slowly turning around, Takeru would head to walk outside of his office. ''Let somebody call for Asami. Make sure that the disguised ANBU are also keeping everything down. I want to be sure that nobody will even try to make a move that seems threatening.'' Normally Takeru spoke with a polite tone to his ANBU, but this time he sounded stern. Making a bow, the masked man would head to do what was ordered. Without any bodyguards or somebody at his side, he would head to meet Hisoka and his retinue. In the opening hall, he spotted the group. They were with less than he had expected. ''Good day Yondaime Hokage.'' Takeru greeted, walking straight towards Hisoka. Keeping a distance between himself and Takeru, the latter made a short bow. ''I am glad that you have came and honored the Cloud with a visit.'' As Takeru straighten his back, he noticed one particular fact he found strange. There were ANBU, but one not masked girl. Interesting.

As Takeru stepped towards him Hisoka did the same, walking away from the people he had brought with him. He answered the Raikage's bow with an slight lowering of his head. He was not the one who should be showing more respect here after all. "Godaime Raikage." Hisoka replied. "Thanks for having us on such a... short notice." He studied the man before him for a moment before turning back to face his ANBU and Kiyomi. "Wait outside. Kiyomi, you follow me." He gestured to the girl before turning back to Takeru. "My apprentice." He said to the man. "I hope you don't mind having her join the conversation?"

A feeling of pride flowed into Kiyomi when Hisoka announced she was his apprentice. How long had it been? No, focus. Wavering, Kiyomi wanted to make a bow too towards the Raikage. But she wasn't supposed to act unless being told so. Yet, wasn't it a sign of respect to do so? Hoping that Hisoka wouldn't lecture or scold her, Kiyomi made a bow towards Takeru as Hisoka asked his question about her joining the conversation.

Glancing at the girl once more, Takeru remembered why she seemed so familiar. She was a well known face in the Bingo Book. Not as famous as somebody as Hisoka, but the things he could vaguely remember about her were enough that he could understand why she wasn't a wearing a mask. ''For such fine guests, I wouldn't have it any other way, Yondaime Hokage.'' Takeru friendly answered. ''And I would be honored to have a kunoichi you deem capable as your apprentice with us. Please, follow me.'' Takeru requested as he turned around. It wasn't far, but they would hold their meeting in his own office. Hopefully his ANBU had now set up a table and chairs which they could use to hold their meeting. Together with some drink and food, that wouldn't be too heavy on the stomach. Approaching the office, the two ANBU that usually stood guard were now reinforced with four more ANBU. Saluting as Takeru passed them. ''Please, take a seat. I hope that this room is comfortable enough.'' Waiting till his guest sat, Takeru would only then sit down.

Nodding in thanks Hisoka followed the man to their meeting room. Clearly Takeru was... very nice to them. Well, he had something to talk good if he wanted Hisoka to leave pleased so he better make some efforts. He was the first one to sit down in one of the chairs. He shot Kiyomi a look, clearly not expecting of her that she would sit down. They were not equals here and Kiyomi had no direct involvement in the conversation as she was not supposed to join them at the table. Listening could be done from the backseat. "It is fine." The Hokage responded as he leaned back. "So how about we skip pleasant chat and get straight to the point why we are here." It was not really a question.

Taking her position behind Hisoka as he sat down, Kiyomi placed her hands on her back. Her eyes remained focused on the masked Raikage. She was almost pondering on about the man, not knowing much about him. The fact he was masked made her a bit wary, not able to read his face. At times she glanced in Hisoka's direction, trying to figure out why Hisoka had requested to skip the formalities. Then she looked at the entrance as the doors were closed. Walking to the back where Takeru sat, Asami took her place. Making a short bow towards Hisoka, she would take the almost identical pose as Kiyomi had.

''As you wish.'' The friendly tone from before was still polite, but that was all to it. ''The action of my ANBU has caused damage to the Fire Union and I am aware that her action was a bit rash. For that I wish to apologize.'' Takeru began. The thought of bringing up that it was a double agent and that it was only right to protect the information about their village, it was complicated. The only right approach would be if they had caught and erased the memory of the double agent. Not to just kill her straight away. ''I suspect that you wish to discuss now about the death of that agent and what you desire back in return to keep peace between our nations?''

Hisoka gave the woman who entered a slight nod, but turned his eyes immediately back to Takeru. "I accept the apology, but that will indeed not be enough." Hisoka started. "I have no intentions of breaking the peace we have sustained for a while now, but I would like to hear exactly why one of my agents was killed. After that we can discuss what I would like to have in return."

Asami's lips curled down. She had noticed the girl who gave her a stern look back. Then Asami looked at Hisoka and knowing fully well that she shouldn't speak up, the tempation was quite big. However, knowing her place, she kept her mouth shut. Kiyomi on the other hand wanted to lean forward and whisper a question to ask Hisoka if it wasn't a bit unwise to stay here together in a place that had killed off an agent of the Fire Union. But that would show a lack of faith in him, so all she did was making sure she didn't act without Hisoka telling her to do something.

''Merely cause the killer had acted too rashly and reckless.'' Takeru told Hisoka back. ''After finding out that your agent was gathering information and wishing to give it away, the killer made her bold move. Resulting in this rather,'' Pausing, Takeru leaned forward as he folded his hands together on the table. ''Unwanted situation. That is all to it.''

"I see." His eyes catched the disapproving look the woman behind Takeru was wearing on her face. Clearly she didn't like him very much. He hoped Kiyomi wasn't wearing that look. It would be better if she stayed as neutral as possible. "Unfortunate indeed."[/b[ He didn't follow Takeru's move but stayed leaned back in his chair as if he was having a nice day off. His eyes however were not so relaxed. [b]"What would you like to offer me as retribution? Or will you allow me to pick this agent's punishment?"

If the situation wasn't that grim, Takeru would chuckled or laughed at the word unfortunate. That was certainly a word to describe the situation he was in. Or rather, the whole Cloud. ''I would love to hear what you have in mind, Yondaime.'' Takeru responded after a moment. He wasn't sure what the man would offer as retribution, but he decided to hear it out before he would start. Giving the impression that he thought he was in a powerful position wasn't what he wished to do.

"A public duel." Hisoka replied immediately when Takeru allowed him to. "I want your ANBU Namine Arisaka to fight a battle against one of my shinobi. A battle for everyone to see and for everyone to withness. I was thinking against..." Hisoka shot a look back to the girl behind his chair. "my apprentice. Sounds like something you would accept?" He asked the Raikage.

A duel? Against an ANBU? Kiyomi gained the brief idea she was nothing more than a weapon to instill fear and dread. But then again, if she could help out with dueling this Namine, she would do so. ''If that is what you wish, Lord Hokage-sama.'' Kiyomi replied, making a bow as she finished her sentence. Asami frowned at the offer. A public duel? Only then she grasped for what gain the man had offered such a request. Though she would hide her expression better, she wasn't pleased at all by the offer.

''Fairly interesting.'' Takeru mumbled. He leaned back in his seat, thinking about what Hisoka had suggested. Personally he was curious to the capabilities of the apprentice of Hisoka. Then again, he wasn't here for his own. Managing to figure out what the aim was for the duel, Takeru then answered. ''I agree. If that is all to compensate for the loss of the agent. Or was this merely for Namine to be punished?'' Takeru asked.

Hisoka's eyes set as he straightened up slightly."Merely Namine's punishment." He said. "The loss of an agent is not repaid by fighting a duel. I'd like to have compensation. How about we talk trade. Our countries trade quite a lot with each other and benefit from this, yet imported goods can be expensive. I suggest a discount of some sorts?" Hisoka said like he was suggesting it. He wondered how the Raikage would react to that. The man seemed to understand his intentions quite well and yet remained quite calm under them. Unlike his associate.

Almost had Takeru sighed. He had hoped it would be all, but it was never that easy. Thinking about what Hisoka said, it was better than to pay a huge sum of money. But a discount on the imported goods would to a less higher income from the trade they gained with the Fire Union. Clenching his hands briefly, he further thought about it. He could deny it. Saying it was going too far, but what could he offer in return? They weren't out for the head of Namine and he could understand why they were aiming for something like this. ''That could be a reasonable agreement.'' Takeru said slowly. ''But how much would this discount be?''

Hisoka didn't smile when Takeru went along with his offer. It didn't please him overly much that he was here and in these circumstances. At least he had to be happy that, so far, the negotiations went well. "How about 15% percent for at least a year or two." The man suggested, aiming slightly higher then the discount he actually wanted. He suspected that Takeru would lower it and Hisoka would then, most likely, comply to that.

When Hisoka suggested the percentage, Takeru raised his eyebrows. The masked Raikage wasn't a merchant, but he knew well enough that any merchant wouldn't just offer that high discount. Maybe because something special or such. Still, it was a fairly high discount in Takeru's opinion. ''What about a discount of 9% percent?'' Takeru suggested, hoping to lower down the percentage.

Hisoka considered that, letting his head rest on his left hand in a casual manner. "Sounds acceptable. 9% discount on the trade for two years." He said then repeating the terms they had created. He leaned forward and stretched out his hand. "Is that a deal?" He asked the Raikage

''It is.'' Not the ideal deal in Takeru's opinion, but it was way better than the direst situation that could occur with the meeting. Reaching out, Takeru shook Hisoka's hand. ''Then I will now let the duel be arranged. Is there anything else you would wish for Yondaime Hokage?'' Takeru politely asked. He was about to stand up, but waited cause it would be rude to do so rashly.

"Yes, there is another matter we need to discuss." Hisoka said as he pulled his hand back and fell back in his chair. Even though he too wanted it to be over, there were still more things he needed to address. "I would like to have... a moment to talk about another member of you village. One that goes by the name of Deidara Yuhiko." Hisoka almost wished he could see the face of the man before him. The mask... put him on edge. Especially with the knowledge what the last person with a mask on here did. "And his involvement in the break up of various clans."

Takeru stayed silent for several moments. He had been informed about the misdeeds of the boy. He still didn't buy the story that the boy had some mental problems. Some mass murders had that same problem after they were caught. Only he had postponed his own punishment about the boy to save him for what the Fire Union would have with him. Only after that he would deal with the boy. Though he was impressed with that the Hokage knew the name of the culprit. ''Please, continue.''

"I take it you agree with me that we can't let this go just like that. Disbanding a clan is disrupting, tearing apart, killing a family. And this happened within the borders of the Fire Union. I cannot and never will tolerate that. It is my understanding that this is his doing? Meaning that he should carry the consequences, is that right?" Hisoka asked. He was pretty sure that he was right, but it never hurt to get some comfirmation.

Narrowing her eyes, Asami's right hand clenced into a fist. As an instant reaction, Kiyomi laid her right hand on the handle of her blade. Focusing her eyes on Asami, she wasn't sure who this person was, but any threat and she saw it as something that would need to be disposed off. Glaring at the apprentice of Hisoka, Asami loosened her right hand. ''Might I offer to bring the Yondaime Hokage to Deidara, Lord Raikage-sama?''

''You may, later. But remember well, Asami.'' Takeru kept his eyes on Hisoka and Kiyomi. ''It was me who informed them about Deidara. A traitor shouldn't after all rely on those who he has betrayed.'' Takeru's tone was stern and it was aimed at Asami, reminding her of that the boy was a criminal according to the law of both the Fire Union as the Cloud. ''Yondaime Hokage, I will accept this. Though I wish to offer my apology, once more, now for the... questioning and attitude of my assistant. She is of great importance for me, but is related to Deidara.''

Once again Hisoka's eyes moved to the woman with the bad contained temper. If she was related to the boy he didn't like it that she was here. Related or not, this was not something that should be allowed to happen and if personal judgement got in the way then she should be taken of off this case. "Apology accepted." Hisoka said. "Still apologies don't solve this. Mister Yuhiko will carry the consequences of his severe actions. Now it is for us to decide which consequences this will be." He paused for a second and then suddenly turned his head towards his apprentice. "Kiyomi, you have been informed about the matter. What punishment would you give the boy?"

Asami made a short bow, but said nothing. Following the movements of the woman, Kiyomi lowered her hand. Letting it hand instead of keeping it on her back, Kiyomi was surprised when Hisoka asked her that question. At first she felt nervous. But she thought about it. This Deidara had broken down a clan, caused pain and torment by innocent people. For what cause? For what reason? No, that wasn't important. Knowing it much it hurt to come from a family that was broken, Kiyomi had one fitting punishment in mind. ''He has disrupt and caused harm to people who likely never did him wrong. Families have been torn apart as their clan has been disbanded. Their connection might be there, but it is a serious crime to sever a bond. No matter the reasons.'' Kiyomi calmly spoke, much to her own surprise. Pausing, she thought once more about what she would answer Hisoka.

''I would decide he has to pay in blood. Take away those who are of his blood. His family. Maybe then he will understand the pain he has given others. And making it clear that he shouldn't go any further. That and live in shame, knowing he caused the death of his family.''

All this while Asami managed to look calm and collected. She stared at Hisoka, but revealed nothing. But in the inside, she had some clear thoughts. Thoughts that were boiling and would have exploded in an outburst if it weren't for her self control at this point.

He had been a bit surprised as well when Hisoka had asked for the girl's opinion. After hearing what she told, Takeru thought about those words. The masked Raikage was personally impressed on how calmly the young girl could say such a punishment on somebody that wasn't much older than her, from what he assumed. ''And what would you say, Yondaime Hokage?'' Takeru asked, wondering if the Hokage would go along with his apprentice's answer.

For a moment Hisoka didn't reply. He watched Kiyomi and her seemingly emotionless answer to his question. She sounded certain about it, sure that this was her idea of what the punishment should be. He wondered how she could be so certain. He himself, he had trained that. That heartless factor, that had been smashed into him by his father and his life. What had Kiyomi learned that had made her capable of those decisions. But, looking back to Takeru, he couldn't just backout after those words. "Words spoken by my subordinates are my words." He said only.

Crossing his arms over each other, Takeru thought about the decision. The situation was very clear. If he would deny the Hokage his right of judging Deidara then he could very well lose more than just a few lives. Thousands and thousands of lives were at stake. One wrong word or decision and a lot of them would be lost. On both sides, which was what Takeru didn't want. ''I will not anybody stand in your way then.'' Takeru said with a calm voice.

"That is settled then." Hisoka said. He didn't like the decision he had made, but sometimes all the options you had were bad ones and you could only pick the one that... was maybe not the worst of all. He gave Takeru a serious look as he said: "Thank you." He figured that the Raikage would most likely understand what he meant with that. He wasn't thanking him for the visit or for the newly gained trade treaty. He was thanking him for understanding, for accepting some bad choices.

Lowering his head, Takeru sighed. ''It is what we kages do.'' The man said, thinking back about his choices. Then he looked up to Hisoka. ''I consider that we will then now be done with this meeting? I will allow you or anybody you appoint to deal with Deidara.'' After saying that, Takeru took a long pause to then ask something else to Hisoka. ''Shall we head to the arena that will be prepared for the duel? Or do you wish to first take care of your judgment on Deidara?''

"Going to the arena is fine. Maybe your men could bring Deidara in in the meanwhile. I don't want to take up anymore of your time with unpleasantries today." Hisoka said and then turned to Kiyomi. "I take it you are ready for battle now? Or do you need some time to prepare?" He asked his apprentice even though he was pretty sure what the answer was going to be.

And that answer would be given. ''Ready, Lord Hokage-sama.'' Kiyomi voiced, performing a salute. Placing her right hand on her chest, she tried to look calm and collected. Just like he had taught her. Asami took a step back as she realized what would happen to Deidara. And that was just the judgement of the Hokage. Takeru hadn't yet revealed what he would do, but it was clear how he viewed Deidara.

''Then it would be a honor if I may personally guide you to the arena.'' Takeru said, trying to sound more friendly. He had a bitter taste in his mouth, but he was contend. The meeting had saved Kumogakure from facing a potential foe that they couldn't break or dare to face alone. ''I know a very nice touristic walk towards the arena where we can have the duel. Ever saw the infamous restaurant of Tochi's? They make the best noodles and dangoes over there.''

First Hisoka wanted to intersect that this wasn't quite a happening to be shown around the city for and to sound like they had the most fun in the world. But then he realized, that was exactly what he had to do and had to show. "I thank you kindly for your offer and gladly accept it. I have to admit I have seen way too little of Kumogakure during my days." Hisoka replied. "Seems a shame really."

Rising up from his seat, Takeru produced a chuckle as he beckoned Hisoka to walk with him. The doors were opened by the ANBU that stood guard outside as the masked kage would snap the fingers of his right hand. ''No worries. I do have to warn you that there are a lot of special places. Sadly, I understand that I can't show them all today. Maybe we could arrange that next time, we will visit another nice touristic place?'' Takeru friendly suggested, actually being genuine.

Hisoka followed the movement of Takeru and beckoned Kiyomi to do the same. "Understandable. We have busy lifes. I will take everything I can see today and maybe take you up on that offer." Hisoka replied. As soon as the two would stop outside Hisoka's ANBU would be waiting there for his order. With a wave of his hand they would follow in line behind them as he and Takeru started walking.

" I just hope it will not rain today, or Sho will accuse me of doing it."

Ryoku said this out loud as he was waiting at the same training field that housed their previous training. The weather was very favorable and the training field dried up quicker than anticipated - should rain start to fall, it will look like it was his fault, because the village was enjoying the rays of sun. It was just great for today´s training, as he wanted to train taijutsu with Sho - together with some footwork and eye-hand coordination. Depending on the time they have, Ryoku wanted to cover the basics of Nintaijutsu with Sho as well. Taking a lesson from their previous time, Ryoku decided for a more direct approach, not a philosophical one. Hopefully, Sho will like it more.

If Ryoku was going to suggest waiting for the rain again today then Sho was going to leave, he knew that for sure. The boy was making his way over to the trainingfields with a scrowl on his face. It was not that he disliked training, or didn't want to. He just didn't want anymore boring waiting things. Ever or something. Practically stomping he arrived at the field where Ryoku was already present. "Yo." He said as greeting, which could be considered an improvement from last time if you considered that he hadn't greeted the man at all the previous day.

Ryoku turned to the boy, giving him one of his smiles." I am glad you arrived on time, Sho. Looks like weather is in our favor for today. Yesterday, we practiced Water Release and some new techniques for you to use - knowing you, I am sure you practiced a bit after we trained. That is good, because you might need it today. Today´s training will be completely different." Ryoku then walked a bit further away from Sho, then turned to face him again." Tomorrow, we will work on your footwork, coordination of moves, adaptability to the events around you, and Nintaijutsu. But for this training, allow me to adapt the field for us." Forming the Snake seal, Ryoku molded his chakra, then placed his palms onto the ground. As he did, the ground started to rise on the training field. It went on for a couple of seconds until Ryoku was satisfied with the results. He then stood up, looking at Sho again." I created an earthen construction that is very similar to a single square building. We are standing on top of it, and it will serve as our training field. I distributed my chakra unevenly on purpose - some areas have thicker ground, meaning they will hold your weigth. Some will crumble away when stepped upon. And now, to make it a bit more difficult ... " Ryoku hurled out several sealing tags, and forming the Snake seal again, the tags became unrecognazible from the ground." ... I just masked several tags on the ground. They will undo the seals placed on them when stepped upon, releasing small volumes of water - just enough to test your concentration. Also, that will further change how solid the ground under our feet is. So ... what do you think, Sho? Can we pretend that you are not a Genin, I am not the Amekage and do some traditional shinobi sparring?" Just as he asked, he formed The Seal of Confrontation.

Now this was more like actual training! Learning stuff was cool, but you needed to use it in battle for it to become really effective. This was apparantly exactly what they were going to do. Yes, Sho had practiced. Of course he had practiced, but things like this you didn't just learn them overnight. He still had a way to go, and he knew it. But that was why he was here, wasn't it? He shot an interested look around their newly created battlefield. Unstable ground with hidden tags. "Fuck yes." With a slight grin Sho took a position opposing Ryoku and watched the man make the seal. When he had trained with his father they had never made that seal. They just started and Soru would teach him something. With brute force if necessary. Ryoku didn't do that. Slightly awkward Sho made the seal. As soon as he had made it though he considered the match to be started and suddenly jumped forwards to the Amekage. Feinting to attack the man's head he landed low and attempted to hit the man's knees with his leg.

Ryoku was expecting the move, but Sho´s speed still took him by a mild surprise. Dodging the faint aimed at his head, he then leaped up some distance to also dodge the hit aimed at his knees. While mid-air, he weaved a quick series of seals, and took a deep breath." Fire Release: Phoenix Sage Fire Technique!" He made his attack a more large scale one in favor of strength, and he also aimed the technique so that Sho could move in several directions, depending on how he wanted to continue.

Well that didn't work of course, but Sho did get a taste of how fast the man could move. Pretty darn fast. Outspeeding him would never work. Sho hadn't betted on that anyway. But now he was on the defense with fire coming his way, and Sho didn't like to be on the defense. He took a step back as he formed some seals as well, only to feel his foot slip away and he started to fall back. Shit." Uneven floor, he had to be more careful Sho thought as he quickly fired the Wild Water Wave Technique to the fireball that came his way and composed himself. The water collided with the heath of the fire and created a small cloud of steam. Just enough for Sho to momentarily gain his footing again and shoot forwards out of the steam and hopefully into Ryoku.

Ryoku paid very close attention to Sho´s moves, and he was surprised in a very pleasant way. Countering his fire technique with a quick water technique blocked Ryoku´s vision for a while, and a second later, Sho emerged from the smoke, aiming straight at him." Very good, a perfect move!" Ryoku then extended his hand and grabbed that of Sho, pulling him towards himself, then hurling him back towards the ground, but still holding his hand. He intended to pile dive the boy into the roof.

Not perfect enough, Sho thought as his punch was caught and he was grabbed. He hadn't been able to land a hit and a punch was not perfect unless it hit something. Twisting his own arm painfully Sho spun around mid air to land on the ground with three limbs. He didn't wince. He was used to pain, he could handle it. No, instead of squirming around to get his arm free Sho quickly pulled sideways to force Ryoku to release his arm or have his own all twisted, before attempting to stomp Ryoku's knee with his left foot.

Ryoku was expecting this move, and kept on holding to his hand, having it twisted, and thus out of position. Landing on one feet, he spotted Sho´s leg aimed at his knee. Raising his leg a bit, he used his fistula to deflect the blow, but Sho was surprisingly strong." Very good." Letting go of Sho´s hand, Ryoku slammed his other hand into the ground with full strength in order to make it crumble under them. Leaping off from the ground again, he made the seals for his Water Slicer, but poured very little chakra into it. It was like pouring a bucket of water towards Sho.

Being on the ground didn't give Sho a very good position to dodge crumbling earth. Luckily Ryoku had let go of his hand which sho could no use to get the hell away from the crumbling earth that was dragging him down. He scrambled forwards to get on solid ground again only to find himself being met by a wall of water that splashed over him. Sho hardly blinked. He was used to getting wet as well. All Amegakure people were. Unexpected downpours happened all the time. No, this water was useful. Quickly he formed some seals and created a whip out of water that he lashed out to Ryoku. If he would catch an arm of a leg he could pull the whip and get Ryoku off balance.

Waiting for Sho to deal with this, Ryoku was on the wait, prepared to react to Sho´s next move. What happened, however, surprised him. His own technique was turned against him, and the wave that was to throw Sho of ballance, turned into a whip. Before Ryoku could react, he felt a strong pull - Sho succeeded in getting Ryoku thrown from his balance. Unable to do anything to reat immediately, he was heading towards the ground in a way he was not really controlling.

As Ryoku came forward Sho did the same, but not off balance and totally prepared to dig his right foot deep into Ryoku's stomach. With the man ensnared and thrown of balance like this he could move more freely. To think that the whip had actually achieved his goal made Sho slightly proud. It was after all the technique he had 'aquiered' and learned all by himself. It better did it job right.

" Very good, Sho! Excellent!" Just as Sho´s foot hit Ryoku´s stomach, it instead passed through a body of water. Having used The Substitution Technique, he switched place with a Water Clone he managed to hastily create. Still, to think that Sho made a move like this was giving him a reason to be optimistic. The real Ryoku moved in from behind Sho, placing his hands on his back." Excellent move, Sho! What will you do now?"

As his foot passed through water Sho gritted his teeth. He should have seen that coming. Still the Amekage praised his moves. Sho gritted his teeth harder. He wanted those compliments, but he wanted them when he actually hit the man for real. Something that hadn't happened yet. What would he do now indeed. It was a good question. For a moment Sho stood motionless then he turned around, flipped backwards and shot a Wild Water Wave to Ryoku's face while immediately again forming the seals for the Water Whip so that he could solidify the water as it would get close to Ryoku and hopefully catch the man a second time.

The move was an unexpected one, but that is what he wanted to see. The water took him by surprise once again, the speed with which Sho used the technique was truly praisable. Immediately, the whip formed from the water, grabbing Ryoku. He tried to escape, but this time, the grip was a lot tighter. Perhaps it was about the distance between Sho and the technique. Standing there and thinking about how to react, Ryoku watched Sho to make his next move.

Concentrating Sho started to move forwards as he realed in the whip so that his grip didn't lessen. He needed more water. He needed to use the technique that Ryoku thought him yesterday,but it was so hard to do mid-battle. Sho's hand went to the scroll that was now present on the strap that was slung over his shoulder. He could use the water he had stored and- His foot slipped as the ground gave away and Sho landed on one knee before Ryoku. Not a good position. The only thing that could happen now was getting a punch or a kick against his rather unprotected head.

Ryoku spotted the opportunity - Sho slipped and the whip loosened a bit. Using this, Ryoku extended his hand and grabbed Sho by his shoulder. Instead of delivering an attack, he turned the boy a bit and leaped away. Sho was now facing the sun, and with Ryoku no longer blocking him, the rays hit Sho in his face. Testing on how he could react to this, he quickly formed the seals for the Great Fireball Technique, launching it at Sho directly from the direction of the sun.

Dazed by the unexpected... lack of attack Sho was met with the full force of the sun. This was why rain was better, Sho thought as he snapped his eyes shut in a reflex and raised his arm to shield himself. Meanwhile he tried to pull out his leg out of the ground. When his worked he rolled backwards. By then the, untill then undetected, Fire Ball was almost upon him. He shot sideways, but could still feel the flames licking the skin of his right arm and hand, eating it, as it too narrowly roared past him. His right arm trembled and he clenched his hand into a fist to stop it. Fire was painful. Dully noted. Sho took a couple of breaths to regain his composition before he rushed to Ryoku again, this time approaching from the side, a handseal formed in preparation.

Sho recovered quite quickly, which was a good sign - despite being touched by a fireball, he was up again, and approaching Ryoku from the side. Spotting a seal, he anticipated a technique, and made his own in turn. Forming the seals for the Tearing Torrent, he immediately launched it at Sho. He made it a bit more narrow of a stream this time, to see if the boy could spot and use the openings to evade the technique. If that will happen, Ryoku had one last test prepared for today.

But Sho was prepared too this time. He used the same technique Ryoku had used before and created a Water Clone that took the hit for him while he moved to the side. The clone burst apart in a splash as Sho appeared besides the Amekage and started a long string of seals, hoping to finish it before his clone could really completely disappear he tried to speed up before suddenly trusting his palm forwards. The Water Prison started to form around Ryoku as Sho gathered up the water from the used clone and the technique Ryoku had used.

Ryoku was once more taken by surprise. The Water Prison started to encase him in a layer of water not only from Sho, but from his own technique. This is what he wanted to see. Knowing that he had limited time while inside of the prison, he acted without hesitation. The Water Prison worked like a tank - and tanks could only contain a certain amount of water. Mustering all the strength to move in the body of water Sho created around him, he barely managed to touch and unseal one of his scrolls, releasing a hume agoung of water, hopefully distrupting and breaking the prison.

Sho had expected quite a few things when attempting to pull the technique off. One he hadn't expected was that his own jutsu would backfire on him because of whatever it was that Ryoku did. The water pressure became way too high and the prison collapsed sending wave and wave of water over Sho who was literally washed a couple of meters away by it. Sputting he tried to regain his breath while laying flat on the ground, his arms and legs spread apart. Well, that didn't work as he had planned at all. That more like... sucked, Sho thought as he didn't move.

Now, the time was right for the final test Ryoku wanted to perform today. Forming a lengthy series consisting of forty-two seals, he molded a large amount of chakra and started to gather every drop of water he could. Soon after, an enormous water dragon was forming over Sho. Ryoku did not order it to attack, it just loomed over Sho. This was the last thing he wanted to find out.

Opening his eyes Sho was met with the face of a water dragon. He took an intake of breath and his eyes shot around. If that thing was going to crash down on him... well that was just a bad thing. And he had currently no way of blocking it. Whatever water jutsu he could preform, this was quite a bit more water then he could take in and reform to be used by himself. So he did the only thing he could think of. He shot up straight and lunged towards Ryoku, figuring that the man wouldn't let the water dragon come down on himself.

This is exactly what he wanted to see. The guts to never give up. The dragon started to move towards Sho, threatening to hit both the boy and the Amekage. But mid travel, Ryoku let the technique to dispers and the huge mass of water was now concealing his movements, as he made his way towards the ground. There, he raied his head and observed what will happen next. It was time to end this and move on to the next topic - the basics of Nintaijutsu.

For the second time Sho was drowned in water and crashed into the ground. As the attack subsided he coughed up some liquid and spew it on the ground before hefting himself up on his arms and looking up to Ryoku. He was so not done, he just had to gather is breath and then- Sho coughed more and more water dripped on the ground. He wiped his mouth and dragged some of his hair out of his face before getting up after a slight struggle. "I... I didn't lose yet." He said with some effort.

" Nobody said that. And while the fact is that you did not lose yet is true, you should realize that there is a point where you have to stop. Look upon the past few minutes. You managed to catch me off balance several times. You managed to use my own moves against me, you managed to trap me into a Water Prison. And when overwhelmed by my Water Dragon, you lunged at me. That is all I wanted to see. You are the victor here, Sho. You fought very well ... excelently, I would say. You even got ahead of me on the second topic as you performed some of it ... Nintaijutsu."

Sho clenched his fists. There was a point when he was going to stop. it was when he had beaten everyone. Not now. He wanted to snap at the man and tell him that it wasn't good enough yet, but didn't get far with Ryoku just cheerfully continuing about how well he did. Sho straightened a bit and frownled slgithly. Maybe indeed he didn't do so badly. He didn't exactly lose. But he didn't win either and that bothered him even though Ryoku proclaimed him the victor. "What about nintaijutsu?" He asked.

" Nintaijutsu is something you already performed. You added ninjutsu elements to your taijutsu and as you saw, they surprised a Kage ranking enemy. Do the same in your exams, and I think you will be able to surprise any of the opponents. But, my advice is to make Nintaijutsu to be your ace in your sleeve. The combination you pulled with the whip will be a guaranteed sucess. Rememer everything you learned, Sho. And I am sure you will do just fine in the exams. That covers all I wanted to train with you. If you have any questions, ask away. If no ... then excuse me, but my duties await me."

Sho frowned as he thought about what Ryoku said. He had clearly indeed been using nintaijutsu. And that without really realizing it himself. Now realizing actually made him feel pretty cool. He nodded along with the words of the Amekage and finally shook his head. "No questions." He said grinning slightly. It had been a pretty good fight for a non victory.

Maybe, maybe he had imporoved after all.

Walking down the hall, Koike had his hands shoved down his pants. A toothpick at the corner of his mouth and a frown present on his face. After his last request of Aiko, to find and if needed to kill that Cho, Koike had only been focused on the exams. Not that he was hell bent to win all that he could or wanting to prove himself. He knew what it meant to become a chuunin and the requirments. In his own opinion, he wouldn't need to conquer all to prove that. Today however he wasn't heading to train with either Aiko or Katsu. He was heading to the armoury of Azumi. True, he was never sure of that he had a true place among the guardians, but the advantages were nice.

Opening the door of the armoury, Koike threw a look around. His mind was set on finding a replacement for the arm guards that he used. Though he wouldn't throw or forsake his first set, Koike knew that he had to keep using possible better equipment. Now that he had some money to spend, maybe he could also look for something that had occupied his mind as well. Taking a step into the armoury, Koike noticed another person. One that he didn't know. Maybe the person who worked there? Clearing his throat softly, Koike decided to say hello. ''Good day.'' Giving a nod to the other person, Koike rubbed his chin, walking further into the armoury.

Holding the small shield in his hands, Hayate checked the polish one last time. He was about to set it aside when he saw a reflection in the now fully-polished metal. Turning his head he offered a thin smile and nodded his head. "And to you as well." Standing, Hayate placed the shield back in it's place. Turning towards the other boy, who appeared to be busy looking through the armoury. Brushing the dirt from his jacket, Hayate folded his arms across his chest. "Anything I can give you a hand with?" He asked with a friendly tone.

Browsing through the weapons and equipment, Koike turned his head to glance at Hayate. ''Perhaps.'' Thinking about it, maybe it would be better. Even though Koike didn't like the idea as he found himself capable of finding the gear he wanted. Turning around, Koike continued. ''I am looking for a replacement for my current arm guards. Perhaps also somebody who could modify a tanto of mine. Would you happen to know such a person?'' Asking the question in a polite manner, Koike quickly eyed the other boy. No, he didn't know who he was.

Smiling, Hayate reached up with one hand and scratched the back of his head. "You're looking at him." Realizing that it was a stupid answer, Hayate quickly tried to adjust himself. Lowering his hand again, he spoke again with a friendly tone. "My name is Hayate Hyuzu, and I'm the weaponsmith here." It felt weird saying it out loud, but Hayate forced himself to focus on the conversation rather than dwelling on the past.

He was the weaponsmith? Koike had expected the stereotype of a big hulking man that was wearing the dirty apron and such. The boy looked just a bit younger than him, but Koike wasn't an expert on guessing ages. Nor interested in it. ''Koike Hon.'' He said, knowing it would be impolite to not introduce himself. ''But would you be able to help me then perhaps?'' He asked, just wanting to be cautious before he would go off board with his requests.

Nodding, Hayate stepped forwards. "Nice to meet you Koike." Pausing momentarily, he added, "Sure, let me take a look at what you've got, and we can go from there." Waiting politely for Koike to show him his gear, Hayate was already sizing the boy up, trying to think of a good match.

Slowly undoing the arm guards, Koike would take a step towards Hayate. Holding up one of the arm guards towards Hayate, he would take a short glance around. Though he wasn't a weapon expert, thinking about every small detail, he had an eye for fine weaponry. Perhaps it had been a good move to come to the armoury of Azumi. Deciding to first go about the arm guards, Koike waited to see what Hayate would think of the arm guard.

Taking the arm guards with a small nod of thanks, Hayate took a long moment to carefully inspect them. Placing one hand against the solid metal, he allowed a little of his chakra to flow into it. It was a beautifully crafted piece. Simple, yet effective. Hayate could tell they were well worn, due to all of the scratches and minor blemishes, but even still, the piece had held up quite well. Looking back up at Koike, Hayate smiled. "So what are you looking for? Would you like these ones fixed? Or are you looking to upgrade them?"

Thinking about the questions, Koike hadn't really thought about patching his current guards up. How long had he been using them? Roughly a couple of years. Ever since he had became a genin. ''Considering my income, I would pick what would be the cheapest. Though if you would have something more durable, I would be willing to consider that too.'' Koike said, thinking about the amount he could spend. But the arm guards were a bit more important than the idea he had in mind.

Considering the other boy's words for a moment, Hayate nodded his head slightly before tilting his head to the side. "Tell you what. It wouldn't take me really anything to fix these ones up for you, and you definitely seem interested in at least seeing what else we have available, so how about I agree to fix these ones up for you for no cost, if you would be willing to answer a few questions that would help me pick the best options for you? Does that sound fair?" Hayate hoped that he didn't come across as intrusive. He simply found it useful to know a little bit about the user's style and preferences before providing them with a suitable piece.

For a moment Koike was wavering. The offer was really tempting. But how good could he trust Hayate? The arm guards were a vital piece to how he fought. If due a mistake they wouldn't be able to defend him against an enemy, breaking or such, in the heat of the moment then Koike would be in a lot of trouble. Asking however about his skill and experience on smithing would maybe undo the friendly offer. Mentally sighing, Koike blamed Katsu for that he was going to give this Hayate a chance. ''Yes, it sounds fair and quite generous.'' Koike answered. ''For that I am willing to try to answer some questions.''

Smiling warmly, Hayate decided to add something. "And uh... well, if it makes it a little more fair, you are welcome to ask me any questions you may have as well. I don't want you to think I'm interrogating you or anything..." Chuckling nervously, Hayate inwardly cursed. What are you doing!?!? You sound like an idiot! Scratching the back of his head again, he stood there awkwardly, hoping that Koike didn't already think him an incompetent fool.

Not revealing much other expression than the usual calm one, Koike nodded. ''I will.'' He was wondering why Hayate was chuckling like that and the wary feeling came back. ''My first question would be when you would be willing and able to work on my arm guards. I don't want to sound insolent, but I am needing them very soon.'' Keeping up the polite tone, Koike was wondering what kind of questions Hayate would ask back.

"Oh, I can patch them up right now actually." Hayate said, his eyes lighting up. Gesturing for Koike to hand him the second arm guard, Hayate decided to ask his first question. "What style of fighting do you prefer?"

A rather innocent question, but Koike wasn't fond of giving much information about his fighting style or anything that could give a big hint about his fighting capabilities. He had learned that it was good to have a surprise over your potential future foes. ''I am comfortable with a lot of ranges.'' Koike answered as he undid the second arm guard. Handing it over, he was wondering if Hayate was just a simple smith or perhaps a shinobi himself.

Recognizing the other boy's hesitance, Hayate could understand where he was coming from. He too had been taught to keep his full fighting capabilities a secret. Taking the second arm guard into his hand, Hayate sighed. "Alright, look. I know you probably don't feel entirely comfortable around me, seeing as we just met. But if you keep being so vague, I don't know how much I'll actually be able to help you. So how about this? I am going to show you why I am the smith here. An ability that I don't feel entirely comfortable sharing with everyone. If you feel comfortable answering my questions after I show you, then perhaps we can move forward." Instead of waiting for a reply, Hayate simply placed his hands over the metal of the arm guards and focused. Quickly, the metal began to reshape itself. The scratches and blemishes began disappearing, and it didn't take long for the guards to look new again. Pausing for a moment, Hayate looked at the guards and smiled, satisfied. Handing them back to Koike, he said nothing, and simply awaited the other boy's response.

Taking the guards back, Koike said nothing in return as he done on the equipment. They looked new and he was content with the work so far. Examining them further for a moment, he turned his gaze back to Hayate. ''I think I will be able to give a proper answer if you would be willing to show me that indeed.'' Though Koike was impressed, he suspected that it was some sort of ninjutsu. But he had never seen or heard much about ninjutsu bending or altering metal. It certainly piqued his interests, but made him only more wary. ''If it helps, I am willing to give the name of the jounin that is my sensei and mentor. Other than that, I fear that I am not really willing to forsake too much information.'' Hoping that Hayate would understand that this wasn't him being close as it was even a gesture of giving him, Hayate, a chance.

Pausing, Hayate finally nodded his head and smiled. "That seems fair enough for now." Though he was a little disappointed, he could understand Koike's reasoning. At least... he thought he could. ''I am member of Squad 8, that is being led by Aiko Cho-Hon.'' Koike said. He wasn't sure if Hayate knew about her, but figured the name would suffice for now.

Aiko... The name sounded familiar. Where had he heard it before...? Suddenly, Hayate's eyes widened as he remembered. She was Kiyomi's aunt, the assassin. Taking another long look at Koike, Hayate tried to see if he could garner any hints from the boy's appearance. The fact that Koike was dressed entirely in black answered at least one of Hayate's questions, yet he didn't want to make too many assumptions. "I have heard of Aiko-sama. She is my sensei's aunt actually..." Smiling, Hayate continued. "You mentioned that you need the arm guards soon, so I take it that you use them often? If you feel comfortable answering my next question, do you use them more in a defensive manner? Or an offensive manner?"

Not surprised with the expression that Koike saw on Hayate's face, it was just another time that he became aware what a name could mean. Even just saying Aiko was enough to see somebody being surprised and Koike had to say that he could tell a lot more about his sensei that would make other people being wary to face her. But he wouldn't say much more than her name. ''I use them in a defensive manner.'' He calmly answered.

Happy that Koike answered the question honestly, Hayate considered his options. "Do you prefer speed or strength?"

Thinking about the question, Koike considered strength. He was confident that he was fast enough to make a good match for most genins and his strength was average. Then again, his techniques and abilities wouldn't require more strength. ''I would prefer speed for now.''

Nodding, Hayate began making a mental cheklist. He already had a few ideas on the potential design, as well as what metals he would like to use, but he still had a few more questions. "You don't have to answer this one if you don't feel comfortable with it, but do you have a specific chakra nature?"

Thinking about that question a bit longer, Koike crossed his arms out front of his chest. He wasn't really certain if he should tell it. But he decided to make a suggestion back. ''I noticed you moulded the metal. I pressume that was more or less a metal or earth based ninjutsu?'' Koike asked back. ''If you want to answer that, I will answer your question as well.''

Hesitating, Hayate realized it was only fair. And... a part of him almost wanted to share information about his clan's kekkei genkai, even if it was just to spite the elder's and their arrogant policies. "It's not ninjutsu... not exactly. My clan, well, some members of my clan, are capable of manipulating all forms of metal via touch. I don't know how we first developed the ability, but it has passed down through the bloodline of my clan and is something we are re more familiar with now. Was that satisfactory?"

Koike nodded. Thus that meant it was a kekkei genkai? That was fairly interesting to know. Perhaps something to look out for as Koike could see some advantages an user like that could have over a weapon user. ''A specific chakra nature would be wind.'' Koike said, doubting if he should say either wind or Yin, but the later gave more away about his fighting style.

Hayate smiled. "Excellent!" A sudden thought popped into his head as he realized something. "Wait! If you're a member of Team 8, that means you know Katsu-san right?" Hayate's voice had taken on an excited tone as he thought about his friend. As reaction to his question, Koike nodded again. ''Yes, I am a team member of Katsu.'' Though Koike was curious what connection Katsu had with Hayate, he decided it wasn't any of his concern.

Interesting, Hayate thought. "Has... has he shown you his newest sword?" He asked, somewhat sheepishly. Katsu was a wind user as well, so if Koike had seen the boy's weapon and approved of it, then Hayate decided that he might incorporate some of the same techniques. ''No.'' Koike simply answered. But he thought he had figured now out a part on how the two were connected. He assumed that Katsu had met Hayate in the same manner as he had or at least in a similiar way.

"Hmm..." Hayate mused, thinking to himself for a moment. "Alright, would you be okay with me showing you a few samples, and then from there I can create something a little more custom for you?" Koike nodded as he had became curious to what Hayate could make. The question to ask him what he was best at making was on the edge of Koike's tongue, but he already had an idea of what he wanted. ''If you are willing to show me, I would be grateful.''

Without another word, Hayate simply turned and made his way over to where the armour was kept. Stopping in front of it, he pulled a few examples off of a shelf and held them out for Koike to look at. "Which of these styles appeals to you most?" The first example was a relatively simple guard. It was quite similar to the guard's that Koike already had, only this one was squared off instead of rounded. The second example was not made out of solid metal, instead it consisted of mostly leather, with pieces of metal placed strategically throughout. The third option that Hayate showed Koike was thre segregated pieces of metal, strapped together over a leather bracer that held it all in place.

Examining the several examples, Koike paid great attention to each of them. They were interesting and he could see some advantages but also disadvantages. The square one was one that Koike discarded first. Not cause out of fashion, but because he wasn't sure if he could conceal the equipment better if it wasn't smooth as his current one. The second example was one that caused Koike to ponder about. The fact it wasn't made out of solid metal had its advantages in his opinion. Same as the third one, that had something of a splint mail equipment if Koike was correct with that. ''Impressive.'' Koike started, meaning what he said. He eyed the two later options for another moment. ''I think the second set would be my choice. How much for it?''

Narrowing his eyes slightly as Koike asked how much, Hayate had to think. He was happy that the other boy had liked the designs he'd picked out however, and Hayate was just left wondering how to respond to Koike's question. "I uh... I didn't really have any intention of charging you anything to be honest..."

The response of Hayate left Koike surprised. The arm guards looked like some fine craftmanship. He wanted to pick one up to examine it better, but he could see that it was made with care. ''I see.'' Koike said on a softer tone. Mentally cursing, he couldn't just accept the arm guards like that. An assassin had no value with honor, but some where it felt wrong. Less wrong than what Koike would offer. ''I suppose then I could return the favor of treating you on something? Are you a fan of pastries?'' Koike asked, thinking about Katsu. Maybe Hayate was also crazy about pastries?

Smiling, Hayate folded his arms across his chest. He could sense Koike's reluctance to simply accept the guard's as it was, and it caused him to think back to Katsu. "That's not really necessary Koike, though... pastries are quite good..." Thinking to himself for a moment, he locked eyes with the other boy. "The way I look at it, Guardians help each other out. So it wouldn't feel right to charge another member for equipment that they need to use. I figure that it'll work itself out at some point."

That sounded reasonable. Picking up the guard, he noticed it was lighter. Probably due the fact it wasn't made of solid metal. ''Then that still means I am in your debt.'' Koike softly mumbled. ''Consider it then that if you are in need of my help that I am gladly willing to repay this favour. As a fellow member of the Guardians.'' A smile formed on Koike's face as he nodded towards Hayate.

Returning the nod, Hayate was pleased. "It will take me some time to craft up a customized working set for you, but I can have it ready for you in a couple of hours if that's acceptable?" Remembering something, Hayate tilted his head to the side. "You also mentioned something about your tanto as well? If my memory serves me correct."

''Yes.'' Koike thought on how he could phrase what he wanted. ''I have a set of two tanto's. I was wondering if you could modify them for me. I could use them better if there was a mechanism that would enable me to chain them together. But also to release them from the chain, if they are trapped or such.'' Koike was wondering if Hayate could make such a thing. Else he would have to go the Arsenal and look for a capable smith there.

Hayate considered the request quite seriously for a long moment. It wasn't something he was necessarily familiar with, but he did love a challenge. Grinning widely, Hayate rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "How long would you like the chain to be?" He asked, the eagerness clear in his voice. The question was soon followed up by an answer. ''Around three meters.'' Though it would sound long, but for the purpose and ideas Koike had with it, he couldn't do with a smaller distance. Longer would also become troublesome to wield it in the way he wanted it.

"Would you prefer the chain to be retractable as well?" Hayate asked, his curiousity piqued. He hadn't considered that. It could be quite interesting if that was possible. After Koike thought back on how Hayate had fixed his current arm guard, he decided to give him the benefit of the doubt. ''If you were capable of creating that, that would be great. Though I wouldn't want to request for too much.''

Raising a hand up in a gesture to let Koike know that it wasn't a problem, Hayate's mind was already racing, eagerly searching for solutions. "I'll tell you what. If you're okay with lending me your tanto's for a few hours as well, I can hopefully have everything ready to go after that. I am not entirely certain how much I can do with the tantos yet, but I have a few ideas that just might work." Thinking for a moment, Hayate scratched the back of his head as he added, "Would you like me to meet you anywhere in particular once I'm done?"

Koike's right hand had almost went to the handle of the only visible tanto he was carrying. Though it was slightly longer than a tanto, Koike decided against it. That blade was a memento of both his clan and brother. But he wasn't comfortable of revealing he carried concealed weapons. His hands went to his unzipped jacket, revealing the two tanto's that were carried underneath the black jacket. Pulling them out of their sheath, Koike easily flipped them so that the handles of the weapons were stretched towards Hayate. ''Maybe at the stairs that lead to the Hokage Mountain? Seems like a decent place to meet up.''

Nodding his head, Hayate reached out and took hold of the tanto's. Gently he pulled them away from Koike's grasp, making sure not to accidentally cut the other boy with the blades. Feeling the weapons in his hands, Hayate knew they were also well crafted blades. Smiling, he looked back to Koike. "That sounds like a plan then Koike-san. Thank you for coming to see me, and for placing your faith in me. I will do my best not to let you down." With that, Hayate turned and left the armoury, making his way towards the forge. He had work to do...

Walking into the light of the arena, Kiyomi briefly looked around. With the many people attending and watching the arranged duel, she couldn't really pick out anybody she knew. For a moment she had the idle hope of seeing or hearing Midori, but alas even with her good eyes she couldn't pick her out of the public. Flexing her fingers of her right gloved hand, Kiyomi walked further more into the light. With only the scabbard of her most favored katana, Kiyomi thought about changing to use Samehada. Only to realize that it would be better to not use the bandaged sword in this duel. Slowly however, she would pull up her face mask as she would move to the position she would need to wait for her opponent. Though she knew that Hisoka and a lot of other people were watching, she was calm about it. It wouldn't be a fight to the death, merely an amusement for the public. Seeing two kunoichi against one another in a spar.

Namine was nervous, she received an order of the Raikage she would fight a strong shinobi of the Fire Union. Namine felt misjudged, a duel between someone of the Fire Union? what kind of sick joke was this? havent I been punished enough? Namine wore her traditional ANBU armor and tools as well as her, but she did not wear her mask. She would face her opponent head on. Entering the battlefield she quickly noticed that hiding was unlickely, some trees and rocks was all there was in this arena. Namine did not care about the people watching, she didnt really knew anyone that good. Her mother would be there maybe and her fellow kumo ANBU, she would show them she was worthy of being one of them.

This was the one who caused the trouble? The one that killed a double agent? Kiyomi eyed Namine with care and caution. All she knew was that the person was either a jounin or ANBU ranked. But by seeing how the person was dressed as an ANBU, there was little doubt about it. It made Kiyomi wonder what Namine was thinking, as she was wearing her Hokage Apprentice outfit, making her look like some ANBU. Smiling under the cover of her mask, Kiyomi decided that it was a trivial thing. But she couldn't stop the thought. What was her opponent thinking? Feeling? Clenching her left hand into a fist, she decided to nod towards Namine. The person that was going to be referee was looking if they both were ready.

The young kumo ANBU saw her opponent approaching. She looked young, maybe even younger than herself. Namine wondered if everyone in the Fire Union was this strong at such a young age, or maybe the Fire Union has other standards for 'strong'. Namine noticed the nod of her opponent and nodded back. Quickly changing from the young, playfull girl to the serious Kumgakure kunoichi that she was. She looked at the referee and thought of a plan while she waited for his start sign.

"Hachime!"

Raising her right hand to form the Seal of Confrontation, Kiyomi simply wait. She stared at her opponent, but didn't seem to move. Simply staring at Namine as she would open her left hand. There was a slight rush of temptation to charge and try to test out her opponent. To like usually see how fast she would be, what kind of abilities she had. But knowing that she stood in the Bingo Book, Kiyomi decided to pull out another approach. One that had once beaten her. Maybe if she would play it right, she could win it in his style too. Smiling, she realized that out of all the people who would watch over this duel, Hisoka would likely see what kind of style she was going to use.

Namine stored energy in her muscles, once she would start the offense she wasnt about to give her opponent any breathing space. She kept close watch on her opponent, letting nothing slipt past her attention. She didnt move untill sometime before she suddenly strafed to the left and unleashed a barrage of around 8 shuriken at her opponent.

Stuffing her right hand into a pocket of her pants, she casually picked out a kunai from her holster. With a quick and short jump, she would deflect the 8 shuriken. Skidding to a halt, she kept her eyes on Namine. Only briefly spinning the kunai made it clear that she wasn't really planning on going on an offensive manouvre at the moment. However, she was producing a plan on how she would test out Namine without showing too much of her own abilities.

When the first of the eight shuriken was about to hit Kiyomi, or the kunai she was about to use to defelct them, Namine moved her fingers a bit, letting the six Shuriken behind the first two move to flank her opponent using the Manipulated Shuriken Technique with her invisable threads. Namine did not launch a couple of normal shuriken at a jounin, as a jounin would be easily able to dodge or defelct them.

That tactic? Hearing the air current change, Kiyomi quickly ducked as she would again move backwards. Keeping her kunai in a defensive manner, she did noticed that one of the shuriken almost grazed her shoulder. Pushing herself to move faster backwards, there was now more distance between the both. Spinning the kunai again, Kiyomi slowly closed her left eye. ''Interesting.'' She said, even trying to mimic the voice of the man she respected as one of her mentors.

Namine moved her fingers a little more, Kiyomi was now to far away as she didnt use really long threads and let the Shuriken stick in the ground in front of Kiyomi. Namine now threw a kunai at striaght at kiyomi with a cord on it as well, halfway she lit all the cords on fire with the Dragon Fire Technique. trying to lit her opponent on fire but even more to block her vision. Namine focussed chakra at her feet and dashed away soon after and vanished from sight, as soon as the fire cleared, Kiyomi could not see her anymore and could not have seen where she went due to the fire. Namine hid behind a rock, waving hand seals for her next attack.

Readying herself, Kiyomi used her agility and reflexes to dodge the incoming attack. It was a slight surprise to see the cords being set on fire, but coating her kunai with some lightning caused her to keep fending off the cord without needing to worry that the heat would conduct over the weapon. Once she had managed to defend herself and took the more casual stance again, she couldn't see her opponent anymore. Tilting her head a bit, Kiyomi narrowed her eyes. Though it seemed like she was still waiting, she was trying to pick up any scent or sound that would give away Namine's position.

Namine leaned with her back against a huge boulder. completely still holding her last handseal for the technique she wanted to use before releasing it. She kept her breath shallow and used her Silent Killing and Sensory Technique to pinpoint Kiyomi's position and movement.

Looking around, Kiyomi decided to store the kunai away as she would prepare her move. She thought that she had picked up the scent of her opponent, but decided to not act too rashly. Opening her right hand, a brief flicker of lightning crackled through the air. Gathering and moudling chakra at her right arm, she would keep watch of any hint that would be given by her opponent.

Suddenly two version of Namine ran out of hiding from behind a rock. one ran right and one ran left, throwing Kunai at Kiyomi and around her, littering the field with the before they moved in for a taijutsu attack. meanwhile the real Namine still hid behind the rock readying a strong technique to launch at her opponent, picking out the right moment to act.

With a quick jump to the left, Kiyomi dodged the first few kunai as she raised only her right hand. The focused and moulded chakra erupted as a fierce lightning spark around her, traveling over the ground to cover more ground around Kiyomi. It would try to lash out and damage the clones while Kiyomi kept up the casual and calm look. Though she wasn't actually that content. Though the Chidori Current wasn't a real secret move of hers, she wanted to save it for later.

Namine felt her clones disperse as she kept track of Kiyomi's movement now! Jumping over the rock behinf her she launched two techniques at Kiyomi in rapid sucession the first one was a rather weak but high in quantity Fire Bullet technique and the second was an attempt to catch Kiyomi In a Thunder Binding cage using the previously thrown kunai as conductors.

Seeing that the clones didn't poof away, but merely were turned into lightning, Kiyomi knew that it weren't usual shadow clones. It made her wonder what Zakito was thinking if he would watch her now. Deciding to not give in her train of thoughts, she noticed a movement. Quickly turning her head, she noticed the first incoming attack. With a quick movement, Kiyomi again moved backwards with pouring chakra at her feet. Pushing herself from the ground, she would perform a backward chakra jump. With the increased distance, she would see how Namine would aim her next movement as she skid over the ground.

Being halfway through her handseals for the Thunder binding technique, Namine saw Kiyomi getting out of range, jumping over to a part of the field that wasnt yet covered in her projectiles. Namine kept creating handselas while following kiyomi closely with her eyes, but ended with other selas than that that would make the Thunder Binding, releasing a Electromagnatic murder at Kiyomi strong enough to briefly paralyse Kiyomi if it hit. After releasing the technique, Namine drew her sword and ran over the the place where Kiyomi would either land or fall down.

Noticing the Lightning Technique being sent towards her, Kiyomi saw no other choice but to neutralize with her Chidori Current. Keeping her calm composure, her lightning fended off the technique of Namine. However, now Kiyomi didn't seem to make any movement to keep up the distance as she pulled out a kunai again. Once the lightning technique of Namine was fended off, she would let her own lightning technique fade away.

While Namine ran she poured fire chakra in her sword with her own Chakra Manto technique while watching what Kiyomi would do with her attack. She made it fizzle with one of her own. Namine was close to Kiyomi seeing her pulling out a kunai. Namine smiled, if this would go as she planned this would be a deal a good amount of damage. As Kyomi landed Namine gave her no time to move as she swung her sword at her opponent.

Waiting till Namine got close, Kiyomi simply readied her kunai. There was a brief flicker of lightning around the kunai as Kiyomi took a more defensive stance. Her left hand was still in the pocket of her pants as well the calm expression, so far one could see it with the lower half of Kiyomi's face covered away by her mask. Readying herself, Kiyomi was already moulding chakra to defend herself and if possible counter-attacking Namine once she would stay close.

Namines' Sword hit Kiyomis kunai, having her blade so close to her opponent with no other means of defending Namine discharged all the fire chakra in her sword with Chakra Houden no jutsu. Namine jumped away from the attack still remaing close, readying her weapon again and plotting her next move.

Her right eye widened a bit as Namine seemed to discharge her fire. With a quick slash, Kiyomi poured more chakra into her lightning coating as it would expand. With the quick movement, the lightning expanded forwards to go head to head with the fire. Holding most of it off, Kiyomi felt a burning sensation at her right arm. Jumping backwards, she briefly glanced at it. Not much damage was done, but if she had been a second later than it would have resulted in a high degree burn.

Namine noticed the rise in lightning chakra when she discharged her fire attack. That picked Namines interest, so this girl used lightning chakra in defense? this give her a great advantage in her next attack to deal more damage, if she could weaken the improvised shield of the girl with her lightning rod. As the fire cleared Namine saw Kiyomi having some light burns at her right arm. Dashing at her opponent again she now aimed for her right hoping that her defense was weakened there because of the damage dealt by her previous attack.

Readying her kunai again, Kiyomi still held her left hand in her pocket. She had noticed that her opponent was moving at her again and decided to force her back with a more powerful Chidori Current. This time the lightning would move in a violent lash around Kiyomi, expanding from her. With this it would provide a shield against both the advancing Namine and in case some of the fire would try to get to her. Lifting her left hand out of her pocket, Kiyomi seemed to frown.

Namine felt the air between them tighten, strong lightning currents rose up, probably a technique from the girl to prevent Namine from getting close. Namine, now with her sword holding no more chakra she now poured lightning in it which she absorbed from the current of her opponent with the Lightning Rod jutsu, minimizing her own chakra usage. This way her attack would get strongen while her advance and the defense of the girl got weaker. Namine smelled victory, although she new this battle was far from over.

Namine was moving through her Chidori Current? The same trick as before. Opening her left hand, Kiyomi slightly adjusted her stance as she would unleash even more chakra in her movement. With being close and virtually surrounded by lightning it would backlash at Namine. The tactic of her opponent had worked the first time cause Kiyomi had been more cautious and not been aware of the movement. Now she was simply going to overwhelm Namine with a stronger lightning attack to cause a backlashing effect. The lightning technique that Namine used to absorb some of the Chidori current would now be used as a conductor against Namine.

Namine smiled as she came closer and closer to her opponent untill the air between them become heavy and pressing. The lightning chakra around the girl became tighter, almost like a wall. Namine reacted not in time and felt the overcharge finding its way to her. Namines sword discharged as she herself felt a huge shock. Her legs became a bit wobbly but she remained wonderously on her feet. squinting her eyes she looked at her opponent while trying to catch her breath.

It was over. The sword of Kiyomi pierced the midsection of Namine. Dust was swept up a bit as the young girl had moved quickly forwards, thrusting the sword as she had been taught, right into the stomach of Namine. Twisting the blade, Kiyomi raised her foot and send a powerful kick to push Namine away from the blade. With the condition that Namine was it, it was clear that the match was over. Medical nin came rushing to help the ANBU that had recklessly tried to advance. With a rather cold look, Kiyomi spinned her blade to sweep of the blood before she sheathed back into the scabbard. ''Hm.'' Not really satisfied as she had expected more from an ANBU, she walked towards the exit of the small arena. To join Hisoka's retinue again, while the medical nin would try to take care of the shocked and bleeding Namine.